Dec jan issue 2015 2 by 25A Magazine

Dec/Jan 2015

New City /Luxury Long Island GoldYork Coast Magazine

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Matty

Sorrentino

Photo by Don Gatehouse

Holiday Issue

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contents December/January 2015 Cover

48 Donna Karan HOLIDAY 12 Holiday Gift Guide 2015

FEATURE 20 THE 25A LIST

30 Mansions in the Snow

FASHION 22 Urban Fabric 42 To Those Who Wander 54 This Verse is Terse

DESIGN 36 The Man Cave

BEAUTY

38 Get Glowing Skin for the New Year 40 New Year Beauty Fixes

TASTE

58 Matty Sorrentino: A Man on a Culinary Mission 64 Saikai & Dassai 66 East 12th Osteria 68 Rocco Steakhouse 70 Pearl & Ash 72 Three Italian Wonders 74 Hosting a Christmas Brunch

REGIMEN 76 The Truth About Holiday Eating

contents December/January 2015

78 JETSET

78 Borgo Pignano 80 Relais Borgo Santo Pietro 82 Conti di San Bonifacio 84 Turkey: The Crossroads of East and West 86 Bovey Castle 88 Visiting Shakespeare's Birthplace 90 Palazzo Parigi 92 Four Seasons Milan 94 Four Seasons Florence 96 Novotel's Supernova Ball Drop Spectacular

PROFILE 100 A Royal Wedding 102 Kelly O. Mattone, M.D. 104 Dr. Greuner 106 Leesa Rowland 108 Sofia Crokos 110 Funk Filharmonik

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118

112 A Night Of Film Screenings 114 Samuel Waxman Cancer Research Foundation 116 Dr. Oz Auctioneer at Harboring Hearts Benefit 118 Celebrating Sonja Morgan & Dr. Christopher Calapai's Cover 120 A Grand Opening 122 Glen Cove Boys & Girls Club

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Gold Coast Luxury Magazine

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November 2013

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Long Island’s Gold Coast Luxury Magazine

Long Island’s Gold Coast Luxury Magazine Publisher Chase Backer

Publisher Chase Backer Editor-In-Chief Jason Feinberg

Editor-in-Chief Christopher A. Pape

Nassau County Exec Ed Mangano Maksim Chmerkovskiy Megan Hilty Gateway Canyons Resort

Jr. Art Director Rebecca Townsend Office Manager Lori Biddiscombe Ofﬁce Manager Sarah Pincus Asst. Office Manager Linda Cunningham

TIM

MATHESON

Art Director Pernilla Hughes Director of Marketing-NYC Suzanne Vigliotti

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LAURA BELL

BUNDY

The Flower Boss Brian Flowers

THE ICONIC

25A

February 2014

Gold Coast LuxuryMagazine Magazine Gold Coast Luxury

Dec/Jan 2014 December 2013

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Copy Editor Carla Santella Director of Strategic Marketing Prof. Jack Mandel Assistant Editor/Social Media Ryan Gerosaus Wilk Director of Financial Marketing Georgia Editor-at-Large Gwen Wunderlich-Smith Editor-at-Large Gwen Wunderlich Features Editor Fashion Editor DebiVictoria Pine R. Crosby FashionEditor Editor FayolaCaruso Ricotta Features Victoria Fitness Editor Pam Polestino Social Editor Clara Morgan Food Venus Quintana FoodEditor Editor Andrea Correale Contributing Health Editor Brustein Scott B. Rosen, Wells, M.D. Nutrition Editor Lindsay M.S., R.D. Nutrition Editor Lindsay Brustein Rosen, M.S., R.D. Arts and Travel Editor Diana Pinck Society Editor Christopher Robbins Gold Coast Writer Monica Randall Arts and Travel Editor Diana Pinck Features Writer Victoria Crosby Contributors Gold Coast Writer Monica Randall

Gold Coast Luxury Magazine

DEC/JAN 2014 | Vol. 3 issue 9

CORNELIA

Norah Lawlor, W.A Muller, Salome Langvin, Hillary Latos, Joe Alexander, Carla Hall D’Ambra, Jody Sokol, Bennett Marcus, Sarah Pincus, Ann Lawlor, Contributors Jennifer Pelaez, Kristy Carlos Lacayo, Jeff Krasner Andrea Correale, Contributing Photographers Shane Fonner, Natalie Gaebelein, Olivia Katz, Patrick McMullan, Tom Fitzgerald & Pam Deutchman, Stacey Skordas, Wayne Jane Lerman, Liz Mendoza, Kelly O’Malley Mattone, M.D., Herrschaft, C.Camarena, Barry, Paul Prince, Andrea Mineo, Aline Marie, Alan Alyssa Nightingale, IlenaVanessa Ryan, Griggs, Don Gatehouse

GUEST Dan Lauria Peter Max Gold Coast Holiday Style

25A Gold Coast Luxury Magazine

March 2014

KATIE

LEE

Iris Wiener Contributing Photographers Chase Backer's wardrobe provided by Giorgenti Suits Patrick McMullan Deann Arce, Van Cushny, Paul Gerben, Contact: Clifton Parker, Paul Prince, Kat Rabbit, Jericho, NY 11753 Johnny Schiano, Neil Tandy, Jennifer Thomas

Oleg Cassini Vera Wang The Gateway to Machu Picchu Bridal/Romance issue

Cover photo by Nigel Barker

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April/May 2015 April / May 2014

Food Issue Alex Guarnaschelli Kingside Damaris Phillips Vitae American Cut Revel Gold Coast Chefs

Gold Coast Luxury Magazine Gold Coast Luxury Magazine

Writers, Models, Musicians and Photographers please inquire Contact: 1057 Jericho Rd by 25A magazine, All rights reserved. 25A magazine is published ten times per © Copyright 2015 East NY without 11732permission of the publisher is prohibited. The publisher and editors are year.Norwich, Reproduction 516.864.2525 (f) unsolicited 516.399.2444 not responsible for material and it will be treated as such and unconditionally assigned for www.25Am agazine.com publication subject to 25A magazine’s right to edit. facebook/25amagazine twitter/25amagazine Writers, Models, Musicians and Photographers please inquire

Mother's Day Gift Guide Voltaire's Castle

The House on Fort Hill Sag Harbor village Anthony Rapp

EAST Hampton

FRAZIER

Tom Fitzgerald Photography

Basketball Legend

CLYDE Bernard Age Defying

The Boxing Legend

© Copyright 2013 by 25A magazine, All rights reserved. 25A magazine is published ten times per year. Reproduction without permission of the publisher is prohibited. The publisher and editors are not responsible for unsolicited material and it will be treated as such and unconditionally assigned for publication subject to 25A magazine’s right to edit.

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Publisher’s Note

The air is growing colder and New Yorkers are preparing for the holidays. What a vivid reminder that this is December! To celebrate the coming holidays and New Year, we present our Holiday Issue. With our much vaunted holiday gift guide, winter inspired fashion stories, and dining options that will make you crave for more- our December/January issue is one that can’t be beat. My hope is you’ll use us as your guide for all your luxury living needs. On our cover this month we present fashion icon Donna Karen. We sat down with her to discuss what makes her tick and her new retail concept, Urban Zen. This born and bred New Yorker loves the challenge of opening new stores and inspires us with the ease in which she does it. We also feature local restaurateur legend Mattie Sorrentino with his MS&AS Restaurant Consulting firm and his philosophy on great service, delicious food and how to run successful restaurants. Because this is our winter themed issue, we have a piece from renowned author, Monica Randall on Mansions in the Snow, a look at Gold Coast estates during this magical winter season. Relive, through her stunning imagery (both in prose and in pictures), Long Island’s yesteryear. As always, travel, dining and social gatherings are covered. We know that there are other publications in the NYC and Long Island markets, so we thank you for your loyalty- we hope you love the magazine as much as we love putting it together. We are blessed to have the best writers and readers in the world! Wishing you a wonderful holiday season!

Chase Backer Publisher

Keep your eye on what matters most.

Together letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s plan for the future so you can continue all the good you do in your life.

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Molton Brown Bauble Gift Set A showcase of their 13 most popular bath gels. $115 Moltonbrown.com 12 | 25A www.25Amagazine.com

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TaylorMade TaylorMade M1 Driver Featuring a multimaterial crown. $499 TaylorMadeGolf.com

LJ Cross Large white gold cobblestone cross with white diamonds $38,000 ljcrossny.com

5 1 0 2 Guide Consuelo Vanderbilt Costin Homage Princess Necklace and Tennis Bracelet Set is inspired by the single strand of pearls that each Vanderbilt woman received on her 18th birthday. $79.95 (Sold as part of a set) hsn.com

Tern Bicycles Tern Verge S27h – The Mile Eater Whether you’re on a long distance trek or your daily commute, the Verge S27h carries you and your load with sure-footed confidence. $1,900 TernBicycles.com

Montauk Tackle Co The Montauk Tote Already simplicity itself, the elegant tote bag gets an update with a few added features that make this item a must-have whether you’re offshore or on. Made in the USA. $125 montauktackle.com

Harman AKG N90Q State of the art headphones designed by Quincy Jones with Tru Note and Active Noise Cancelling technology $1500 us.akg.com

Elchim 3900 Healthy Ionic Thanks to the right combination of air flow, heat and power this professional hair dryer reduces drying time by more than 30%. $189 elchim.com

Briggs & Riley The perfectly sized wide bodied expandable carryon by Briggs & Riley that meets international travel standards $499 Zappos.com Dec/Jan 2015 | 13

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Maxwell & Williams Sensations Decanter & Wine Glass, Set Of 3 Black Give your fine wines the love they deserve with Maxwell & Williams Sensations wine decanters and wine glasses. $69.99 maxwellandwilliams.co.uk 14 | 25A www.25Amagazine.com

Netatmo Monitor your home when you are away with the sleek Starck designed facial recognition camera by Netatmo that connects with your iphone. $200 netatmo.com

Manhattan Moonshine This highly acclaimed un-aged Whiskey recently received an impressive 89 rating from Whisky Advocate Magazine, making it the highest rated un-aged Whiskey in the world. $49.99 manhattan-moonshine.com

Yuneec Typhoon Q500 4K Capture every moment with highest quality on the market. Not only does the Typhoon 4K shoot impressive 4K video $1,299 yuneec.com

Omega Twin Gear The product crushes, mixes AND squeezes produce to get the highest extraction possible from your produce. $499.95 omega.com

Montauk Tackle Co Ribbon Belt Classic and functional, this ribbon belt embodies the Montauk Tackle philosophy that style comes from simplicity. Leather tipped on both ends with the double hooks logo embossed in leather. Made in the U.S.A. $59 montauktackle.com

PELOTON BIKE The Peloton Bike is the only at-home fitness solution for live and on-demand indoor spin classes. It offers high-energy, cardio workouts from the convenience of your own home or office, at any time. $1,995 + $39/MO subscription for unlimited classes pelotoncycle.com

mophie Juice pack reserve for iPhone 6/6s Description: The juice packÂŽ reserveTM is mophie's most compact battery case to date, and its distinctly thin, lightweight design provides more than 60% extra battery life. $59.95 mophie.com

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Bushnell Golf Tour X Using two interchangeable faceplates, Exchange Technology gives the golfer a 2-in-1 device. The TOUR X features Dual Display Technology (DDT) that allows users to easily toggle between the bright red display featuring Vivid Display Technology or the crisp black display, incredible ranging capability of up to 1,300 yards (450+ yards to a flag) $499 Bushnellgolf.com

Tria Give the gift of beauty with Tria's FDA approved eye wrinkle correcting laser $249 sephora.com Dec/Jan 2015 | 15

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NYC

Christmas Windows

Scenes from Bergdorf Goodman

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Dec/Jan 2015 | 17

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25A Trump Tower Wednesday, November 11 11:11AM New York, USA

Photo by Gustavo Rodriguez

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features

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THE 25A LIST

Manhattan's Most Powerful Personalities (in no particular order) Photos by Patrick McMullan 1. Leonardo Di Caprio Actor 2. Bryan Cranston Actor 3. Bryan Lourd Co-Chairman, Creative Artists Agency

20 | 25A www.25Amagazine.com

13. Lin-Manuel Miranda Creator, Hamilton

8. Gayle King Co-anchor, CBS This Morning

11. Johan Eliasch Chairman & CEO, Head N.V. (c)Getty Images

14. Doug Burns & Randy Zelin Criminal Defense Attorneys

9. Giuseppe Cipriani Restaurateur and Hotelier

12. Kendall Jenner Model

7. Fawaz Gruosi Founder and Creative Director, de GRISOGONO

5. Don Peebles Chairman, Peebles Corporation 6. Roger Friedman Founder, Showbiz411

10. Inga Kozel Fashion Icon

4. Col Allan Editor in Chief, New York Post

15. Lionel Richie Singer, Songwriter

16. Louis CK Comedian 17. Michael Milken Chairman, Milken Institute 18. Richard Caring Owner, Caprice Holdings, Birley Group, SoHo House

22. Vladislav Doronin Founder & Chairman, Capital Group

24. Maria Bartiromo Host, Fox Business

20. Baz Bamigboye Columnist, Daily Mail

23. Zach Vella CEO, Vella Group

25. Diane Clehane Columnist, Adweek Blog Network (c)Eugene Gologursky

21. Stephen Hung Chairman, Louis XIII Holdings

19. Richie Akiva Founder & CEO, The Butter Group

Dec/Jan 2015 | 21

fashion

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urban

fabric Photos by Cam Camarena Art Direction by Vanessa Griggs Styling by Fayola Ricotta Produced by Christopher A. Pape Model Christine M

Helen Yarmak International White mink coat Yellow and white diamond and pearl earrings Price upon request 25A www.25Amagazine.com 22 |helenyarmak.com

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fashion

25A The Original Hugh Hefner bar in his NYC Penthouse Playground

"The true New Yorker secretly believes that people living anywhere else have to be, in some sense, kidding." John Updike

Helen Yarmak International Black and white mink coat with detachable tuxedo and reversible to printed leather Price upon request helenyarmak.com

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25A Hair by Lynette Gutierrez for Angelo David Salon | Elchim Milano | Makeup by Juan Ramirez for Angelo David Salon | Giorgio Armani Beauty Manicurist Marjana Kryekurti for Angelo David Salon | OPI Products Photo Assistant Gustavo Rodriguez | Assistant Stylist Diego Marquez

Helen Yarmak International Black Ostrich Coat Price upon request helenyarmak.com

"Give me such shows â&#x20AC;&#x201D; give me the streets of Manhattan." Walt Whitman

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"The city seen from Queensboro Bridge is always the city seen for the first time, in its first wild promise of all the mystery and beauty in the world." F. Scott Fitzgerald

Helen Yarmak International Blush Marabou coat Blue opal and gold earrings Price upon request | 25A www.25Amagazine.com 28 helenyarmak.com

Dec/Jan 2015 | 29

features

25A

The Woodward Playhouse During a Blizzard in 1966

Mansions in the Snow

Story & Photos by Monica Randall

here is perhaps no place on earth more beautiful than our local manor houses and gardens when covered in a blanket of snow. The only exception I can think of is king Ludwigâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s fairy tale castle, Neuschwanstein, thousands of feet up in the Bavarian Alps. It would appear that not only Walt Disney made this his trademark image, but many of the newly minted millionaires here on long islands north shore took inspiration from its gothic spires and fanciful peaked turrets. Even Scott F. Fitzgerald chose such a Ludwigian setting for the home of his 30 | 25A www.25Amagazine.com

ill-fated Jay Gatsby. That very real castle, Beacon Towers, once existed and rose up along the rocky shoreline in Sands Point. Disney uses the Bavarian fortress as the opening vision on all his films as the fabled castle appears shimmering against colorful fire-works blazing and rockets bursting in air. This is the stuff of myth, and the vague subliminal promise that once you enter that world, all of your dreams will come true. No, we canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t compete with Disney, or the slightly loony Ludwig, but we came damn close here on the Gold Coast.

Old Westbury Gardens in Winter

This time of year, there are traces here and there of post- card-pretty landscapes and stone gate posts garlanded in evergreens and bright red bows that epitomize all the glamour you’d expect to see on the north shore. The twisting winding roads with names like: Chicken Valley Rd., Chateau’s Cove Lane, and Palace Drive embody the true spirit of the holidays. As you sweep past these charming entryways and gate cottages you get the feeling that those who are invited are in for unforgettable magical evenings of loveliness. The few surviving estate houses that are open to the public are often closed during the winter months. Old Westbury garden is perhaps the most beautiful in winter with its frozen rococo touches, long glades of hedge groves that set off the classical urns and marble goddesses. On many of the estates, there were lavish boxwood gardens clipped in the whimsical shapes of bears, deer, and peacocks. They were even more beguiling when a fresh dusting of snow covered them like a veil

of opaque gauze. But alas, it is a sight that the rest of the world never sees. Many of the island show places have never been photographed in winter. It is not an easy thing, to trudge around hundreds of acres on foot in two feet of snow with a heavy camera bag, tripod and frozen fingers. But it’s worth the effort. The following images have been taken over many years. It is perhaps nature’s greatest art show. Winter Sports The north shore was a winter wonderland as the sprawling estates provided a beautiful backdrop for sleigh rides that began at the crack of dawn. There were hill and dale chases in vintage sleighs plowing through the white stuff to the sound of jingling bells. Fox hunting, though rare in winter, took place if the snow wasn’t too deep and the hounds could still follow the scent of the elusive clever fox. It was a breathtaking spectacle as the huntsmen in bright red jackets galloped and leapt over fences to the sound of a shiny brass bugle horn. Dec/Jan 2015 | 31

features

25A

The Former Luckenback Estate in Glen Cove Overlooks a Lake and the Long Island Sound

Skating Parties In winter, there were romantic moonlit skating parties on the frozen ponds that were surrounded by flaming torches or colorful paper lanterns lit with live candles. Everyone pitched in to gather masses of dead wood and branches to build a bon fire to keep skaters warm. Louis C. Tiffany, of stained glass fame, took things up a notch as he hosted some of the most lavish theme parties of his day. At his 100-room mansion called Lauralton Hall in Oyster Bay, he had a skating rink built just outside his front door. His Christmas parties on ice were the place to be. A huge holiday tree was lit with colorful lights reflected off the glass-like surface of the frozen pond. Guests wore fanciful costumes and to add a bit of whimsy, a servant dressed in a polar bear costume served hot toddies and spiked drinks to ward off the chill. At one event, tiffany launched a hot air balloon decorated with streamers of colorful ribbons. A man stood at the helm dressed as Old Man Winter. His costume was a floor length robe of white ermine and he wore a crown of glass icicles. Classical music was played by members of the New York 32 | 25A www.25Amagazine.com

Philharmonic Orchestra, who were brought to the estate in Tiffanyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s private railroad car. L.V. Luckenback Estate Just up the road from Winfield, the former F.W. Woolworth estate on Creasent Beach Road, in Glen Cove, is a massive French Normandy chateau that looks as though its been transported from the Loire Valley. It was built in 1928 by Louis V. Luckenback, who was the grandson of the founder of the steamship line. The Holland brick chateau, with its circular towers and reddish tiled roof, sits on a gentle bluff overlooking a picturesque lake filled with swans and herons. Surrounding it are ancient weeping willow trees that when frozen form fantastic galaxies of glistening icicles. As the sun sets as the day ends, the ice covered branches radiate in multi-colored flares like an aurora borealis. From the North terrace, a wide, double balastraded staircase of travertine stone overlooks a sweeping view of the Long Island Sound and lake. High above the steep roof is an unusual lead bell tower

Templeton's Spectacular East Facade

with an ancient weather vane on top. The entire façade brings to mind scenes from the classic novel Wuthering Heights. Templeton When temperatures drop to below freezing, Templeton is reflected in a double image on the glass-like surface of a giant man-made lake. The neo-classic Georgian manor house, considered to be one of the most palatial of the north shore residences, was originally built by the Dupont family in 1920. It was later owned by steel magnate, Winston F.C. Guest, who was a third cousin of Winston Churchill. Guest, came from an old line family and was ranked as one of the top polo players in the world. He later married F.W. Woolworth’s daughter, Helena McCann at one of the most lavish weddings ever to take place on Long Island. Templeton is surrounded by 130 acres of formal English gardens, sweeping vistas, and long stretches of marble balastrades topped with giant Grecian

urns. Wide allée of Linden trees bend like cathedral arches with the weight of snow. The east façade is an architectural triumph; perched on a marble terrace slope that faces a wide lawn dotted with pine trees. Massive limestone pillars support an open loggia flanking the house in a semicircle, terminated with an open brick archway. To the north, an unusual keyholeshaped swimming pool has three waterfalls that flow from pink marble shells. The nearby stables once housed dozens of prize-winning thoroughbreds and polo ponies. During the 1940s when the famous Lipizzan horses from the Spanish Riding School of Austria came to New York to perform at Madison Square Garden, Mrs. Guest invited them to stay at Templeton’s spacious polo stables. In 1968, manor house made its way on to the silver screen, when several scenes from the movie: “A New Leaf” were filmed there. Today, the manor remains intact and is known as the Deseversky Conference Center. Dec/Jan 2015 | 33

features

25A

The Trellace Gardens at the Playhouse in Oyster Bay were Inspired by those at Versailles in France

The Woodward Playhouse There are homes that might have long since been forgotten except for the bizarre events that took place in them. The playhouse, as it was called, was such an example. The playhouses, or sporting casinos, there were about 40 of them here on the North Shore, were massive structures that were best spotted from the air because of their glowing blue glass roofs. At night they could be seen for miles around. They all housed a standard 162-foot indoor tennis court, with a 62-foot ceiling and adjoining wings contained a steam room, small indoor pool, gym, bowling alley, rifle range, screening room to show movies, and at least a dozen guest rooms. Perhaps the most charming of these was the Woodward Playhouse in Oyster Bay. Originally built in 1927 by Mrs. E.F. MaCann, who transported an entire 100-foot cathedral over from Essex, England and had the rest of the house built around it. The formal gardens were near replicas of those found at Versailles. There was nearly an eighth of a mile of powder-blue French trellage designed in complex geometric patterns of latticework. They caught the ever-changing shifting of light, and when frosted with snow created a place of winter enchantment. At each end of the rose garden there are twin moon shaped reflecting pools. At one time each had a dolphin fountain that sprayed a plume of water twelve feet into the air. Stretching South from the house is a magnificent all’ee of towering pines, terminated by a pillard classic temple. In winter, the slightest breeze would fill the all’ee with clouds of swirling snow. In such a beautiful setting it is hard to imagine the brutal murder that took place there on Halloween night in 1955. But, this is a holiday issue and 34 | 25A www.25Amagazine.com

we want to keep things bright and chipper (see August issue of 25A 2012 for the gory details). If you cant find the feature story online under: “The Shooting of the Century”, call me and I will personally send you a copy. Billy and Ann Woodward bought the 360 acre estate in 1945, where according to all of New York society, they were an ideally suited couple. They lived at the Playhouse with their two children, an army of servants and a neurotic poodle named Sloopy. But then on that ill-fated night in 1955, Ann got flomoxed over something, picked up an elephant gun and blew her husbands head off. After that, just about everyone in the family commited suicide. The only one who didn’t was the poodle, though he did hurl himself into the deep end of the pool, but was saved by the butler. The house was put up for sale, but no one wanted to buy it. Everyone said it was haunted. Finally in 1965, a handsome elderly couple bought the property for a fraction of what it was worth. I was a young art student at the time and got to know the new owners, and we all moved in together. The place was so big it was like going on Safari to get from the kitchen to the ballroom. You had to carry a water bottle with you so you wouldn’t get dehydrated during the trip. If there were any ghosts I never saw them, but the pipe organ would occasionally start playing by itself. It was the wind: we said, filtering through the massive organ pipes that ran from the basement to the second floor. That first winter was magical. It seemed to snow all the time, two and three feet of it. There was only one plowing service in the town of Oyster Bay, and everyone was on a waiting list. The driveway was a mile long, so we were always the last in line.

TOP: The Chelsea Gardens in Muttowtown. The 1920's Red Opera Cape was Once Worn by the Ill Fated Winefred Bird. LEFT: Mill Neck Manor, the Walled in Garden is Decorated with Tall Grecian Urns and a Marble Temple RIGHT: The Balastradded Terrace Facing the Great Lawn and Gates at Old Westbury Gardens

The landscapes, vistas, and meadows where the neighbors horses and peacocks wandered were breathtaking and I had plenty of time to photograph them. There was a small pond close to the house, one very cold Christmas when the pond froze and there was little snow, we turned up the speakers in the ball room and opened the windows, then put on our ice skates and trudged down to the pond. As Christmas carols floated in the air, we laughed in delight as snow began to fall on our eyelashes. All around we strung tiny string lights in the trees that twinkled like stars in the inky black sky. Mill Neck Manor One of the finest surviving examples of English Tudor architecture on the North Shore is the former home of Mr. and Mrs. Robert L. Dodge. Built in 1925, it stands high above a rolling hill in Mill Neck overlooking Beaver Dam and the Long Island Sound. The stone Gothic gable, and hipped roof give it a Downtown Abby atmosphere. At the main staircase landing there is a stained glass masterpiece done by Louis C. Tiffany depicting the four plays by Shakespeare. The estates crowning glory are the formal gardens where two classic temples are surrounded by a stonewall and giant urns. At one time English boxwood was carefully clipped in a radial pattern to represent a sundial. A fountain at the center threw water high into the air. In 1950, Mill Neck Manor became the Lutheran School for the deaf. During the year the estate is open to the public for many fund raising and social events.

Chelsea Manor Each winter Chelsea Manor is transformed into a holiday wonderland of decorated trees and sparkling lights, but it is the gardens that dazzle when taken over by Mother Nature. The 200 acre tranquil sanctuary was built by Benjamin Moore in 1924, and is the only Long Island mansion surrounded by a moat. From the tall glass windows you have a view of clipped topiary trees, long hedge-groves dotted with whimsical statues, and stone baskets of fruit. A feudal tower rises up along the waters edge of a lily pond. When covered in snow they are breathtaking from any angle. At one time peacocks roamed freely around the grounds, their haunting cries coalesced those of other wild birds. Moore was the great, great, grandson of Clement Moore, who wrote the beloved poem: Twas the Night Before Christmas. Chelsea is open to the public all year, yet I canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t recall ever seeing anyone there when there was snow on the ground. But in the stillness of a cold winters day as you gaze at the ethereal snow covered Chateau, and unique European gardens, something in your spirit shifts to light, like when you behold a great work of art. You are again reminded of things divine, glorious things that once made up everything and anything that was once a part of the Gold Coast. Authors Note: For those of you who like snow, there is an illustrated slide program called, Winter Dreams, available to libraries and private clubs. For info call 516.921.7438. November 2015 | 35

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The man cave

How to Make a Man's Space Look Sophisticated

By Jody Sokol

hen my client decided to renovate his basement, he had a few requests for me in addition to making it a man cave. He wanted a space with a big screen TV that he could hang out and watch games with friends or Friday night movies with the family. He needed a space that would house his extensive sports collectibles. The other thing that was a must is that the space needed to also act as his home office. Other things he requested were a fire place and a spot for his salt water fish tank. We designed a wall unit that would house his 60 gallon custom made reef tank and a 55 inch flat screen TV. Lots of shelves provided ample space to display all his sports memorabilia. Cabinets underneath provide additional storage for office supplies. A gas fireplace creates a cozy and warm place to watch games. A custom built desk is the perfect size for his two computers and almost acts as a sofa table in the space. A small comfy leather sectional backs 36 | 25A www.25Amagazine.com

up to the desk creating the perfect separation of space and is a great spot to watch the beautiful and mesmerizing fish tank. A small round side table can be moved around and used as a snack table. A leather look wallpaper cozies up the space against the cream carpet and brown sectional. It took some time to design everything that my client wanted in his man cave but I’m happy to say that I think we achieved everything that was important to him and not only has it proved to be his favorite spot but seems to be the spot his company loves to hang out as well. It’s always a thrill to design a space that my clients can share with family and friends and love for years to come. The key to any great design project is open lines of communication and I’d say it was a slam dunk. 516.790.5265 jodysokol.com

danielgale.com

Seasons Greetings from My Family to Yours.

Why My Family Loves The Holidays on the North Fork… • Entertaining friends and family with farm to table holiday meals prepared with a bounty of fresh produce and seafood, organic dairy, local wines and hard cider • Unique boutiques and specialty shops to find the perfect holiday gifts • Sitting by a cozy fire with cups of hot cocoa and home baked pie from one of our favorite farm stands • Holiday Festivals highlighting the North Fork’s rich history • Countless ways to create memories that last a lifetime

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beauty

25A Get Glowing Skin For The New Year 4 Stops To Help Revive Your Skin By Ann Lawlor Tracie is a pioneer in bringing the awareness of yoga, healthy nutrition, meditation and a generally holistic lifestyle to the fashion and entertainment industries. This unique background has enabled her to design a beauty concept that is effective and results oriented. Using the best anti-aging technologies including her own proprietary beauty equipment, the Resculptor and multi-colored LED lights, while simultaneously creating treatments that are restorative, pampering and holistic, her approach leaves you rejuvenated and uplifted inside and out. Tracie has drawn on decades of experience to create her powerful range of tightly edited, ultra luxe, all-natural skincare merging organic botanicals and essential oils with powerful cosmeceuticals like enzymes, peptides and vitamins. "Her treatments include her trademarked Red Carpet Facial which famously" "lifts, firms and contours, while creating a glow perfect for any skin type before an event or as an effective beauty routine." Her trademarked Enzyme Exfoliant also known as a Facial in a Pot is a gentle but effective natural exfoliator and brightener and the closest you can get to Tracie's facial when not in NYC. Tracie Martyn 101 5th Avenue 11th Floor Penthouse NY, NY, 10003 212.206.9333 traciemartyn.com

Dr. Laszlo’s Institute in New York, as it was known over 42 years ago, was a stomping ground for some of the world’s most glamorous women (Marilyn Monroe, Grace Kelly, Jackie O, Audrey Hepburn and more) and reopened in 2012 as a members-only skincare treatment facility. The Institute offers customized treatments and peels that focus on skin correction and maintenance. Since its grand opening in 2012, the Institute has received overwhelming success and has reached its membership cap; introducing new membership tiers and rates that’ll kick off in October 2014. Erno Laszlo The Institute 382 W Broadway NY, NY 10012 212.300.4111 ernolaszlo.com

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Step inside the world of L.RAPHAEL – ultra-premium, technologically advanced skincare, beauty and antiaging treatments for the world’s most discerning clientele L.RAPHAEL is where five-star service meets luxury spa settings and traditional holistic healing blends perfectly with breakthrough anti-aging technology. L.RAPHAEL Beauty Spa at Four Seasons Hotel New York 57 East 57th Street NY, NY 10022 212.350.6420 fourseasons.com

Joanna Vargas specializes in cutting edge treatments from her microcurrent Triple Crown Facial that tightens and lifts the skin for an instantly sculpted face to her one-of-a-kind full body LED light therapy. Joanna pioneered this anti-aging treatment with her patented LED Bed, developed after reading studies that have shown LED lights heal the skin at a 300% faster rate, promote collagen production, reduce inflammation and shrink pores. Joanna’s treatments are completely unique, from the way that she trains her staff, her knowledge and attention to detail to her products and machines. Each of these elements contributes to the Joanna Vargas experience that is unparalleled to other salons. Joanna Vargas Salon and Skin Care Sanctuary 501 Fifth Avenue Suite 1203 NY, NY 10017 212.949.2350 joannavargas.com Dec/Jan 2015 | 39

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Guerlain Spa

New Year Beauty Fixes Special Options to Make You Look Great! By Jennifer Pelaez

ook your holiday best this season with anti-aging and rejuvenating fixes that will leave you looking years younger and more radiant than ever.

Before delving into the holiday madness and quickly approaching New Year, allow enough time to seek out a program to get your face and body camera ready. For truly transformative results, Solta Medical, an innovator and leader in aesthetic energy devices offers a variety of options for every possible concern, ranging from Fraxel to Liposonix, among many others. One of the only practices to carry their full range, in addition to over 30 other lasers is the renowned Fifth Avenue Dermatology Surgery & Laser Center on the Upper East Side where Dr. Paul Jarrod Frank, nationally renowned for his expertise in minimally invasive cosmetic surgery, customizes a program utilizing the most appropriate combination of treatments and devices to address each patient's concerns and personally performs them, as this innovative technology is only as good as the skilled hands operating it. One of his most requested and preferred lasers is Solta’s Fraxel Restore Dual, a two-in-one fractional laser that uses two distinct wavelengths to target both superficial sun-damage and pigmentation while also penetrating deep below the surface to stimulate the skin’s natural collagen. Typically one to three days of recovery, hardly considered downtime, will be worth the wait for outstanding and long-lasting results. pfrankmd.com; solta.com Another area of concern, which can add years to your appearance and also one of the hardest areas to eliminate fat deposits, is under the chin, aka submental fat. Thanks to the recently FDA approved Kybella procedure the 40 | 25A www.25Amagazine.com

double chin is now a thing of the past. One of the pioneers to administer the Kybella treatment is celebrity dermatologist, Dr. Marina Peredo, who owns Skinfluence on the Upper East Side and Spatique Medical spa in Smithtown, Long Island. She brings an artistic aesthetic using cutting edge technology to sculpt, contour and enhance each individual’s natural beauty. Kybella is comprised of deoxycholic acid, which is injected in a grid like pattern under the chin that works to break down and eliminate the fat cells over several treatments. The most adverse effects happen the first two weeks where the submental area may feel numb and swollen, but about four weeks after; the skin under the chin tightens, revealing a more sculpted, defined jawline. Spatiquemedicalspa.com; Skinfluencenyc.com If you are seeking a less invasive and more pampered experience with zero down time and perfect for the last minute holiday beauty rush, the newly launched 50 minute “Beauty Lift” Facial at the luxurious Guerlain Spa situated on the 19th floor of the iconic Waldorf Towers is a must. This French inspired oasis of decadence offers a perfect blend of heavenly relaxation with cutting-edge effective treatments. As the name suggests, this indeed is a treatment that offers instant results, an intense sculpting and dynamic muscle program to target wrinkles while also promoting tissue detoxification. Although radiance, plumped cheeks, lifted brows, and a rosy glow are immediate, a series of treatments are recommended, as the aim is to prevent the drooping of facial features, and restore volume to face areas which lack firmness, which can only be achieved over time but well worth the effort for one of the most gratifying facials of all time. guerlainspas.com

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Photos by Cam Camarena Art Direction by Vanessa Griggs Styling by Fayola Ricotta Produced by Christopher A. Pape | 25A Kaitlin www.25Amagazine.com 42 Model Larsen

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Donna karan

The Extraordinary Journey of a New York Icon

By Hillary Latos

here are few designers or even people who become legends; Donna Karan is one of them. A native New Yorker, an urban warrior and an artistic and spiritual magnet, Donna has lived what seems several lifetimes. To share her extraordinary journey Donna has just penned a poignant and intimate portrait of her life from her traumatic childhood to following her passions to become one of the most famous American fashion designers, to her quest for spiritual peace in her latest memoir, My Journey. After Donna sold her company to LVMH in 2001, she launched Urban Zen in 2007 which encapsulates everything she believes in—from beautiful clothes that are meant to be worn—to soulful and comfortable furniture, accessories and artwork sourced from artisans around the world. The proceeds of the Urban Zen stores support the foundation which represents the past, present and future—preservation of culture which comes from her work with Haitian artists, wellbeing which is taught in her integrative therapy classes in her studio, and the empowerment of children. As philanthropy has always been at the forefront of her endeavors—from

being a driving force behind Seventh on Sale—to launching Super Saturday with the late Liz Tilberis, this holiday season she will open the Stephan Weiss Studio to hold the Soulful Economy Marketplace from November 19 until the end of January, which will feature unique items with a social conscious. Here, Donna Karan speaks with 25A about her current endeavors, inspiration and life lessons from a life well lived. You’ve had an amazing journey in your life what were some of the biggest life lessons that you’ve learned? There are so many lessons you learn over a lifetime. But a few stand out, and they’re all inter-related: • Every death is followed by a birth. The heart is constantly being closed and then opened again. • The universe has plans for you—you just have to listen and be open to hear them. • You’re only as good as the people around you. • The journey is not all positive or negative—it’s both and it’s life.

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Who are some of the people that you’ve been most inspired by? I’m inspired by everyone around me. When I look back, I see how much my husband, Stephan influenced me. He was an artist, always creating. He was also the steady rock in my life – the calm in my chaos. Anne Klein was my mentor, she taught me so much about designing, especially about finding the balance between creativity and reality. With fashion you need both. And ,now my daughter Gabby inspires me tremendously. She knows everything about everything, and her discipline is extraordinary. Everything is thought out meticulously. And it really pays off, whether it’s how she’s raising her beautiful family, building or decorating her homes or how she approaches and runs her restaurants. Would you say that your design aesthetic has influenced your life or do you find that it is inescapable? My passion for design is a part of who I am. It’s in my blood and is as natural to me as breathing. I see a problem, I have to solve it. A void, I have to fill it. I always say ‘every problem has a creative solution,’ whether it’s the desire to look longer, leaner and leggier, or helping to create a soulful economy by marrying philanthropy and commerce so that we can help others through the products we buy. I bring a sense of design to everything I do. What are some of the biggest changes that you’ve seen in the fashion industry since you started? The internet has changed the industry enormously. Everything is so fast, so out there. Fashion shows are seen by all immediately, so by the time the clothes reach the stores they seem old. That’s why I show Urban Zen as it’s hitting the stores - in the season it’s designed to be worn in. Another big change is that fashion designers are not driving the business – the consumer is. She’s not buying head to toe looks, nor is she throwing out her old wardrobe each season to make room for a new one. Instead, she’s buying items to mix and match in her own style. That change is a huge challenge for the fashion industry. How do we meet her on her terms? What advice would you give an aspiring fashion designer? I have two: the first is the one I’ve always said. Get a job in retail and really get to know your customer and what she needs and responds to. Fashion has to exist in the real world. My second piece of advice has come about in recent years, and that is to travel the world. As I’ve traveled more and more myself, I see how it’s changed my perspective and broadened my creativity. What I’m doing in Haiti with the artisans for example, is among the most creative things I’ve ever done. You come back to the design room richer from the experience.

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25A You talk about birth and rebirth in your memoire, how has that changed your vision and goals along the way? Death has shaped my life, and I still miss those I loved and lost. But it helps to know there is always more joy to be had. That’s why I’m anxious to do the things I’ve never done before – to travel to new destinations and take on the idea I’ve had called Motorcycle Diaries, where I travel the world and work with artisans. Tell me about your mission with Urban Zen, what you are doing with Haiti and how is the Foundation bringing about change and reform? When I went to Haiti after the earthquake, I fell in love with the people and was surprised to realize just how much creativity was in this little country. It was like a secret nobody knew. So, my goal has been to help support artisan communities by helping them develop products that would have global appeal. It’s been so rewarding, and now we have a vocational center called D.O.T. (Design Organization Tr a i n i n g C e n t e r ) , created in collaboration with my alma mater Parsons School of Design where graduate students come down and work directly with artisans. I see this as a model for artisan communities all over the world. What are some of the initiatives you are currently working on and projects that are closest to you? Our UZIT (Urban Zen Integrative Therapy) program, which is a certified training program for therapists to bring mind, body and spirit to patient and healthcare workers, and, of course, D.O.T in Haiti. We are also planning to do a Wellness Forum, similar to the one we hosted in 2007 that brought healthcare leaders in both western science and eastern healing therapies together under one roof. For me, it’s not an either/or, it’s an “and.” Do you design the Urban Zen (rtw) collection with a different mindset knowing that it helps support your charitable endeavors? I design for the modern woman, the same one I’ve always designed for. She’s evolving and has become more globally aware and interested. She’s

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a conscious consumer, caring where her purchases are made and who benefits by her purchases. But they still have to be objects of desire that speak to her lifestyle and design aesthetic. That’s key. The leather and horn Haitian jewelry we sell, for example, is as beautiful as any jewelry – it’s what I wear every day. What do you like most about working with the various artisans around the world to create the Urban Zen accessories and home products? Throughout my career I have loved collaborating with artists from Robert Lee Morris to William Morris, the glass blower. So, what I’m doing now is an extension of what I’ve always done. What’s changed is that I love, love, love working with global artisans right in their communities. In Haiti, they call me “down and dirty Donna” because I’ll sit on the dirt floor, working on beads or with the stone or metal workers as they carve their crafts. I’m learning so much and it’s really fun to challenge myself by learning techniques that have been passed on through generations. W h a t a re y o u r favorite pastimes and neighborhoods while in NY, Long Island and the Hamptons? I’m a yogi wherever I am – in the city or at the beach. I also love to experience nature and spend as much time as I can outdoors, either on the beach by my house in East Hampton, or in Central Park in Manhattan. Funny, but the Park is my favorite “neighborhood” in the city, and Sag Habor is my favorite on the east end. Yoga Shanti, the yoga studio I practice in is in Sag Harbor, as is our Urban Zen store, which is right next door to Gabby’s restaurant, Tutto il Giorno, so we spend a lot of time in Sag Harbor, especially in the summer. Where are you traveling for the holidays? We always go to our home in Parrot Cay. The whole family comes, as do our friends and their kids, so there’s lots of fun and activities. Every New Year’s Eve I host a party for the whole island – it’s become a fabulous tradition we all look forward to.

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This Verse is Terse

Photos by Cam Camarena Art Direction by Vanessa Griggs Styling by Fayola Ricotta Produced by Christopher A. Pape Words by Daniel A. Pape Model Milla Lima

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But I Did Try To Woo The Muse

Huishan Zhang Red Dress $2500 huishanzhang.com

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MattY Sorrentino A Man on a Culinary Mission

By Jennifer Pelaez | Cover Photo and Editorial Photos by Don Gatehouse

agnanimous, ambitious, and passionate about the restaurant business, Matty Sorrentino of MS & AS Restaurant Consulting sits down with 25A Magazine to dish about his rise up into one of the most demanding and precarious industries of all time.

Although New York City and Long Island restaurants have a ubiquitous presence, that should not be equated with easy entry into this market, which may be seemingly accessible at first. The true test of an enduring establishment is time itself. With an extremely high failure rate, only the strong survive in this ever-changing world which is as exhilarating and rewarding as it is unpredictable. And that is where Matty, as he prefers to be called, comes in, assisting restaurant owners and food service entrepreneurs in navigating the complex path to a successful and thriving restaurant. From assisting with all phases of the restaurant development, design and opening, menu and operations, Matty and his team at MS*AS Consulting help with specific challenges each individual venue may face. Whether it be to trouble shoot, problem solve, or implement and improve systems, Matty calls upon his hands-on experience commencing as early as his childhood and ensuing years of working in the industry. Having hailed from a large Italian family with prior success in the culinary world, Matty

inherited that natural love and passion for Italian cuisine and subsequently the drive to succeed and implement all he had learned beginning from his first back-of-the-house job at the ripe young age of 15, at the legendary Don Peppe in Queens, the first family-style restaurant. He then worked his way up and ventured into a restaurant opening in Baldwin called Avanti with his brother, Andrew, which they later sold, and joined the family restaurant owned by father, Salvatore named, Matteo's. The family sold the restaurants in 2008. Matty soaked up all the day-to day-happenings of a family-owned operation as well as the hurdles and challenges that every eatery is bound to encounter. Decades later, this passion and desire to make a mark on the Italian dining scene was still coursing through his veins when he decided to parlay into the world of consulting in 2010 to share his knowledge with other aspiring restauranteurs. Highly regarded for his strong work ethic and ability to motivate, Matty isn’t afraid to delve into the knitty gritty and get things done. He approaches challenges head on and creates unique ways to grow and improve each business. Over the past few years he has developed a roster of some highly successful dining establishments he consults for including the highly esteemed 388 Restaurant & Lounge in Roslyn, sister restaurant Chris & Tony’s Restaurant & Lounge in Syosset, Ciro’s in Kings Park, as well as Italian 101 in Sunny Isles Beach, FL, to name just a few. Under Matty’s direction and guidance, along with a talented team of Dec/Jan 2015 | 59

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Photo by Paul Prince Photo by Paul Prince

Recently 388 Restaurant is Hosting a Monthly Sunday Brunch

industry veterans, Chris Tarsi, and co-owner Alexia Sorrentino, 388 Restaurant & Lounge has become a successful addition to the Gold Coast’s culinary scene, serving up home-style Northern and Southern Italian cuisine with an assortment of specialty dishes to round out their enticing menu. It is an elegant, family-friendly yet sophisticated ambiance where simple, classic dishes utilizing high-quality ingredients create an authentic dining experience. From their Shrimp Oreganata appetizer to the full-sized entrees like Linguine Marechiara and Chicken Scarpiello, the dishes speak for themselves. A substantial part of its success can be attributed to Matty’s hands-on approach to training which is all done in-house, making sure that service is impeccable and that no detail is overlooked. His principles to never skimp on quality and maintain consistency is felt in all aspects of the business. His formula is simple. When asked what his philosophy is, Matty responds, “Treat people how you would like to be treated.” He believes that through superior dishes, generous portions, and staying a step ahead of the customer’s needs and desires, all patrons should leave satisfied. “Do whatever it takes to make them want to come back, we never say no.” Going above and beyond and being honest with the customer is paramount to any successful restaurant. It’s no wonder pictures of celebrities that have dined at 388, from Martha Stewart to Howard Stern can be seen gracing their wall of fame.

Chris Tarsi, co-owner off 388 Restaurant with Guests

Photo by Paul Prince

Similarly at sister restaurant, Chris & Tony's, another winning made-to-order menu sets the tone for this Italian family-style lounge and restaurant that also offers a bevy of options, from half portions and a healthy corner to the customization of any dish to accommodate all preferences. The goal with many of the restaurants Matty consults for is comfort - making the customer feel as if they are in their own home while also ensuring the experience is a seamless and memorable one. His family-oriented nature is reflected in the small details like his suggestion to capture the feeling of family by including Sunday dinner comfort classics with a twist like Kobe Meatballs, Baked Ziti, and Braised Short Ribs. Guests Enjoying 388's First Sunday Brunch

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A man of many talents, Matty has certainly demonstrated his impressive repertoire of accomplishments in the restaurant industry. Having made a name for himself on Long Island, his next endeavor is nothing short of ambitious, with grand plans for expansion into Manhattan, a lifelong pursuit. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not a secret the NYC restaurant scene is regarded as one of the best and most demanding in the world, so Matty has been strategically planning and seeking the perfect location to set up shop. He hopes to secure a space around Midtown and plans to cater to the lunch crowd as well as the Upper East diners, a clientele he feels most comfortable pleasing. His vision is to recreate an upscale establishment similar to 388 but distinct from other Italian family style restaurants in the city, emphasizing not just quality and delectable dishes but also the dining experience itself, citing stellar service and an amiable ambiance as his primary objective. While experience does give you a better chance of succeeding in the high risk world of restaurant ownership, it's really about the care, attention, and passion driving it, which is why Matty and his team have not only the track record and expertise, but the devotion and vision to produce nothing less than the next hot Italian spot to hit New York City. 388restaurant.com chrisandtonys.com cirosrestaurants.com italian101miami.com

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Matty with his Family. Photo Courtesy: Matty Sorrentino

As a proud family man and father of four children, two of whom are in the restaurant business as well daughter, Alexia, as co-owner of Chris & Tonyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s and 388, and his son, Salvatore, a chef at 388, Matty feels even more committed to his path of bringing great quality food and service to his patrons. Matty admits the restaurant business can require sacrifice and time away from the family but he credits much of his prosperity to his remarkable wife of over 25 years, Antonette, who has been vital to their success. Matty and his family also incorporate philanthropy into their lives, attributing their involvement in The Guardian Brain Foundation from the loss of Mattyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s brother, Andrew, who suffered from brain cancer, which claimed his life several years ago. As Vice President, Matty supports the mission of the foundation which provides support services to children and adults with brain cancer, tumors and traumatic brain injury.

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Saikai & Dassai A Match Made in Heaven

By Sarah Pincus here’s a myriad of variables to consider when deciding where to dine. Grass and Binchotan Grilled Wagyu Beef which is Miyazaki Japanese Beef, Fortunately for us New Yorkers, we have plenty of options. At the top Julienned negli, garlic crunch, and chrives served with a wasabi sweet of that list is the Saikai dining bar, on Greenwich Ave. sauce, are sure to satisfy all appetites.

Saikai is a contemporary Japanese restaurant that covers all of the dining bases, it has an urbane atmosphere, a menu that changes with the seasons and combines both authentic and modern tastes, and it serves some of the best sake money can buy. If you’re in it for the food, start off with the Truffle Chawanmushi – Japanese style egg custard with uni (sea urchin) or Ikura (salmon roe), kani (crab meat) with truffle sauce. Enjoy a spin on the classic miso soup and try the Salmon Soymilk Miso Soup- a soymilk miso soup with Salmon and Indian Lettuce. The raw bar at Saikai is exquisite. Raw fish such as Trigger fish is served with wasabina green, mushroom chips, truffle oil and koji vinigarette. Fresh ingredients and vegetables are used in order to provide a unique and unparalleled taste like in the Tuna Asparagus, where marinated tuna is paired with white asparagus and koji apple. Deviating a little from the traditional Japanese style menu is the From The Grill selections. Savory dishes including Smoked Duck Breast With Foie 64 | 25A www.25Amagazine.com

If you’re in it for the sake, you’re in for a treat. Saikai serves Dassai sake, which has been called “a sake like no other”. Brewed carefully in the Asahi Shuzo breweries, Dassai sake is created using top quality rice and yeast. The Asahi Shuzo brewery uses cutting edge technology along with traditional methods in order to produce its top-of-the-line sake. A small part of the creation process includes grinding away the outer half or more of each grain of rice before brewing. The reason for this is that the outer-portion of the grain is where all the fat and protein resides, by milling it away, we are left with only the starch which gives Dissai sake it’s unique flavor. Among the many reasons to eat out are the food, drinks and atmosphere that are offered when you go to a restaurant. Saikai dining bar won’t disappoint. If you’re looking for a vibrant atmosphere, an enticing meal and distinctive sake that was created to be enjoyed, Saikai is the right place.

24 Greenwich Avenue NY, NY 10011 646.838.5599 saikainyc.com

Modern Asian Cuisine 1197 Walt Whitman Road, Melville, NY | 631-421-8000 | kentali.com

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East 12th Osteria An Italian Favorite in the East Village

By Sarah Pincus

tep off the busy streets of Manhattan and enter a world of refinement. The East 12th Osteria is culinary excellence combined with interior sophistication and the result promises a night of satisfaction and enjoyment. The hustle bustle city life will appear to be a movie you stepped out of as you watch through the floor-to-ceiling glass façade that encompasses the buildings perimeter. Feel the history beneath your feet as you walk across the 250-year-old hardwood floor; take in the thoughtful touches, added to give the restaurant a unique ambiance, such as the Gascon Stua armchairs and the handblown-glass light fixtures. While the design may be what brings you into East 12th Osteria for the first time, the food is what will keep you coming back. Chef Roberto Deiaco, most recently the executive chef at Armani Ristorante 5th avenue, created an unparalleled Northern Italian-inspired menu and every item is cooked to order. Each dish is made fresh to guarantee exceptional flavor. Even the pasta, gnocci, ice cream and sorbets are produced on premise using organic biodynamic ingredients. Treat yourself to an array of delectable appetizers, including Crudo di Mare, a dish that consists of Big Eye Tuna Crudo with Blood Orange Segments, Branzino Batttuta over Olivata, Langoustine Topped with Renette Apple and White Sturgeon Caviar. Immerse yourself in sensational dishes such as Ravioli all’ Uovo di Quaglia e Petali di Tartufo (Ricotta Ravioli Stuffed with Quail

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Egg, Zuccini Blossom Pesto, and Black Truffles) and Bavette Sull Pesce, a Bavette Pasta with Mediterranean Fish and Crustaceans. After dinner induldge in the freshly made ice cream and sorbet. Or try one of the other delicious homemade desserts like the tiramisu, made with savoiardi biscuits soaked in espresso, mascarpone-amaretto cream and cocoa. What ever you choose will be an absolutely delightful way to cap off your evening. The East 12th Osteria is the perfect place to relax and enjoy a luxurious meal. Or if you just want to unwind at the bar, there is a stellar Bocconcini (bar snacks) menu. Excite your taste buds with Crispy Zuccini Flowers Filled with Sheep Ricotta or try the savory Veal Stuffed with Olives. There’s no wrong choice at the East 12th Osteria. Every item on the menu is created with careful consideration just as each element of design is hand-picked to create the proper environment. Whether you’re looking for dinner, dessert, or a place to meet over drinks, the East 12th Osteria is the place to go. 197 1st Avenue NY, NY 10003 212.432.1112 east12thosteria.com

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Rocco Steakhouse Prime Perfection

By Hillary Latos

nother addition to the uber hot Nomad dining scene is Rocco Steakhouse which is a modern take on the classic steakhouse. Catering to the power banker scene that proliferates the neighborhood, Rocco reflects the trappings of lofty living on a grand scale with high ceilings, tufted walls, mahogany panels, sumptuous leather banquettes and a private basement dining area serving lots of dry aged steaks and fresh local seafood. Named after co-owner Rocco Trotta, this is his first Manhattan outpost with other grand steakhouses in Westchester and Long Island. Joining the ranks of one of Manhattan’s prime steakhouse destinations, Rocco teamed up with fellow Wolfgang’s Steakhouse alums including Executive Chef Johnny Jevric and Head Sommelier Henry Doda to bestow their extensive knowledge of steakhouse hospitality. While GM Pete Pjetrovic and Beverage Director Jeff Kolenovic are co-owners. Start with classic seafood tower teaming with generous helpings of raw oysters and clams, chilled lobster, prawns or stone crab. Other hearty appetizers include crispy crab cakes, thick cut bacon, lobster salad or Rocco’s famous chopped salad. The area where Rocco’s excels is in their extensive selection of steaks dry aged on site. Delve into their classic renditions of favorites such as the spicy Cajun rubbed rib eye steak with mashed potatoes and creamed spinach, tender filet mignon with mushroom sauce or au poivre, succulent broiled veal or lamb chops, and veal served 68 | 25A www.25Amagazine.com

Milanese style or parmesan. Indulgent sides include lobster mac n cheese, and potatoes five ways including roasted, mashed, baked or cottage style. For a lighter and more casual dining option choose the bar menu with calorie friendly options such as salad Nicoise, grilled filet mignon salad, crostini with tuna tartare, or a mixed seafood selection with crab, lobster, or shrimp in a savory mayonnaise sauce. Those with a bigger appetite can try the hearty sirloin steak sandwich or juicy burger. Dessert selections are rich and extensive including some New York favorites such as crème brulee, key lime pie, chocolate mousse, pecan pie, tartuffo and tiramisu that are decadently topped with a rich and thick creamy homemade schlag. The bar specializes in classic American cocktails with fresh artisanal ingredients. Wine connoisseurs can choose from an extensive array of wines from California, Australia, France, and Italy with plenty of full bodied reds and Cabernet Sauvignons that complement the dry aged meats. Whether enjoying the power dining scene, a romantic tete a tete, or networking at the bustling bar, there is always action in this NoMad hotspot.

72 Madison Avenue NY, NY 10016 212.696.9660 roccosteakhouse.com

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Pearl & Ash Delights Downtown

By Ryan Wilk

hen every culture has so many unique and delicious dishes, it’s often difficult to decide what style of food you want, and even harder to pick just one meal. Luckily, the strong team of Trae Basore, Mel Fuechtmann and Patrick Cappiello are pioneering the solution to these problems with their restaurant, Pearl & Ash. Nestled between Prince Street and Spring Street on Bowery in Manhattan, Pearl & Ash combines the best of many different food styles into small dishes you can share with a friend. It’s as if they take the best parts of every culture’s food, and put them together in unique dishes you would never expect to find. Since the dishes are small, you don’t have to commit to one entrée. Just order a few dishes for the table so everyone can share in the same delicious food experience. Your childhood self would never believe their eyes as you enjoy chicken liver and foie gras. You can also indulge in the succulent Spanish octopus which is sizzling with flavor. Another favorite for meat lovers is the six day brisket. This brisket comes with sunchokes, horseradish and black garlic, an assortment of flavors that will keep your palate guessing on what’s to come next. Even the black bread is cooked to perfection and made elegant as it is served with cultured butter and paddlefish caviar.

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Beyond the food, Pearl & Ash is famous for its extensive wine list, which spans over eighty pages. No matter what your wine preference is, you’re bound to find something you’ll enjoy. Peal & Ash is also a great place for cocktail parties or receptions. It has a large event space for any occasion with the need to walk around and mingle. For seated events, they can seat both large and small groups from seven to up to sixty people. At Pearl & Ash, genres of food that would normally be separate come together in small yet mouthwatering dishes. Likewise, the environment is built in a way that it is easy to order a number of dishes for the whole table, so what would have been one person’s entrée can be tasted by the whole table. The mix of these two unique attributes of Pearl & Ash makes for the ultimate communal dining experience. So, the next time you want to eat in an atmosphere that encourages sharing between you and your friends, and sharing between different cultures, Pearl & Ash is certainly a place to check out. 220 Bowery NY, NY 10012 212.837.2370 pearlandash.com

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Dec/Jan 2015 | 71

388 Willis Avenue | Roslyn NY | 11577 | (516) 621-3888 | www.388restaurant.com

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The Leopard at des Artistes

Mozzarella & Vino

Three Italian wonders

Dine at Il Gattopardo, Mozzarella & Vino and The Leopard at des Artistes

By Ryan Wilk & Christopher A. Pape

xperience the delights of three restaurants under single management, Il Gattopardo, Mozzarella & Vino and The Leopard at des Artistes; all Italian and all delicious. The common thread uniting these restaurants is their impeccable ownership of Gianfranco Sorrentino and his wife Paula Bolla Sorrentino. Along with Chef Vito Gnazzo (partner chef at all three restaurants and Executive Chef at Il Gattopardo and Mozzarella & Vino) and Chef Michele Brogioni (Executive Chef at The Leopard at des Artistes), each restaurant produces dishes that will bring a smile to your face and a command to return back quickly. Of the three restaurants, the oldest is Il Gattopardo. Aside from the traditional Italian herbs and sauces used, the main ingredient here is passion. Though

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you may get lucky and be able to walk in one night, reservations are highly recommended. Chef Vito Gnazzo takes the spotlight in this environment where he can really showcase his talent for luxurious Italian dishes. The Spaghetti with grey mullet bottarga has a briny combination of flavors as it is served with garlic, parsley and extra virgin olive oil. Another great option is their ravioli filled with braised Swiss chard and caciocavallo Silano cheese. Served in a guanciale and tomato sauce itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a bright dish that is the perfect example of the restaurant groupâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s philosophy of cooking. Often described as the younger sibling of Il Gattopardo, Mozzarella & Vino gives the more casual diner the chance to taste the acclaimed dishes of Chef Vito Gnazzo. Though it has a more rustic looking interior, Mozzarella &

Vino is located on the same block as Il Gattopardo. This restaurant’s goal is to provide a menu that reflects the simplicity of authentic Italian ingredients. As you may have guessed, the main ingredient that is highlighted throughout most of chef Gnazzo’s dishes is mozzarella. Mozzarella is present in both the entrées and even the desserts. Many of the dishes include mozzarella di bufala Campana, Italian cheeses and affettati. The majority of the dishes are based on classic Italian antipasti, like panzarotti, arancini and mozzarella rolls. And of course Mozarella & Vino is known for its wine. They focus mostly on Italian wine from independent and family winemakers. Their selection changes constantly as they attempt to find more local Italian wines. Something amazing is cooking at the final restaurant, The Leopard at des Artistes. This Italian wonder is located in the iconic Hotel des Artistes. Their mission is to serve quality food that is done in a way that respects the cultural traditions of southern Italy. If you’ve been there in the past year, you may have noticed the food is different from that of the familiar Chef Vito Gnazzo. That’s because he recently passed the torch to Executive Chef onto the young Chef Brogioni. However, all of The Leopard’s classic dishes remain as delicious as ever. Their Bucatini alle Sarde combines the flavors

of wild fennel and red peppers with pine nuts, raisins and garlic. Another unique pasta dish that focuses on salty flavors of the sea is Linguine with sea urchin and Manila clams combined with oven-dried cherry tomatoes and lemon sauce. In addition to these filling entrées, The Leopard also has some noteworthy appetizers to get you started. Their branzino in carpione is also served with raisins and pine nuts with the addition of Tropea onions to bring out the flavor. The last thing to try would certainly be the “Gnudi” Buffalo ricotta gnocchi, in butter and Parmigiano Reggiano sause, sage, and wild mushroom ragout. No longer do you have to go to Italy to get the full experience of authentic Italian food and ingredients. Instead, you can go to one of three great Italian restaurants in New York City. In fact, you can go to all three so you can experience the wonderful flavors of Italy three times.

lgattopardonyc.com mozzarellaevino.com theleopardnyc.com Dec/Jan 2015 | 73

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Hosting a Christmas brunch Perfect For a House Full of Guests By Andrea Correale

Andrea Correale, President of Elegant Affairs, is a celebrity caterer and the new national entertaining expert for the Lenox brand. Andrea has been featured in multiple magazines and on television networks such as People magazine, Woman's Day magazine, Oprah.com, FOX 5, WCBS, Bravo, VH1, Lifetime, and Martha Stewart Living. L'Oreal Paris Academy calls her their lifestyle expert with a series of entertaining videos used to inspire women nationwide. elegantaffairscaterers.com

f you’re hosting your extended family for Christmas this year, you are aware of the stress involved with feeding everyone. Fortunately, providing breakfast for your guests on Christmas day doesn’t have to be as complicated or stressful as you might think. Here are some tips on how to make it easier on yourself and still make Christmas brunch special, memorable, and festive. To start, do as many things as you can ahead of time. This will save you headaches on Christmas morning and will allow you to maximize time spent with family. Think of everything you may need: ingredients, plates, beverages, coffee mugs, and more, and have all of these items labelled and stored away neatly. Worried about room in your refrigerator? Keep in mind that on Long Island, it will be cold enough to use the outdoors or your garage as extra refrigeration space, as long as it’s 40 degrees or lower. You may have some very tired travelers staying with you, so caffeine will be necessary. Set up a coffee bar with different flavored milks such as cinnamon, hazelnut, or

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vanilla. For the non-coffee drinkers, have an assortment of delicious teas, as well as hot cocoa. Instead of regular sugar to go with tea and coffee, give your guests rock candy sticks in different colors. Top it all off with a fun collection of holiday mugs to add a festive touch – Ikea and Amazon have great selections for low prices. It isn’t breakfast without eggs. Set up a make-your-own omelet station with a basket of fresh, organic eggs surrounded with festive napkins, accompanied by fillings, as well as skillets for cooking. You can also assemble a strata the night before. A strata is an egg casserole made in a baking dish, including veggies, cheeses, bread, and more, and just needs to be cooked in the oven the next morning. You can also make frittatas, a nice compromise between an omelet and a strata, which can be easily cooked right on the stove top and served immediately. It’s time to bring back the fruit cake. They always get a bad rap, but that’s because many of the fruit cakes out there have that neon, unidentifiable, artificial fruit in them. There are so many fabulous dried fruits available now, such as sundried cranberries, mangoes, and cherries that you can use to make a truly delicious fruitcake. Throw in some raw nuts and it’s a great dish to serve to your guests who prefer a simple, sweeter breakfast with their coffee. Muffins are a breakfast favorite and can be easily baked (or purchased) ahead of time and served to your guests. Try a unique flavor combination that’s both festive and delicious, like gingerbread with dark chocolate. If you want to convince the kids to eat something healthy in disguise, put a bit of

colored icing in festive shapes on top of some bran muffins – it will make them more fun to eat. Parfaits are another easy make-ahead breakfast dish, which hold up well the next morning. While the traditional parfait includes yogurt, granola, and berries, why not try something a little different, such as a sweetened cranberry sauce with chia seed pudding, garnished with a gingerbread cookie. Toast doesn’t normally excite people in the morning, but that won’t be the case on Christmas Day! Use some cookie cutters and cut shapes out of toast, such as trees or reindeers. Provide an array of toppings, such as jams, Nutella, and strawberry and cinnamon butter. Of course, you can’t forget about sweet breakfast dishes like French toast, waffles, and pancakes. Cookie cutters will again come in handy to create fun holiday food shapes. A quick tip for the French toast: use challah bread and dip it in eggnog for an extra holiday flavor. You can also turn the French toast into a bread pudding/soufflé and make it ahead of time. The fitness buffs who typically drink a protein shake in the morning can have a festive breakfast, as well. Try adding eggnog to their usual protein shake instead of milk. It’s a festive and delicious way to start the morning. Last but not least: set the mood. Set your alarm a little early so you’re up before everyone else. Have Christmas music playing in the background, light the tree, get the fireplace going. All of these elements will help create a memorable brunch with your family on Christmas day. Dec/Jan 2015 | 75

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The Truth About Holiday Eating Eat Smartly This Holiday Season

By Lindsay Brustein Rosen, MS, RD, CDN

on’t let common nutrition myths deter you from enjoying your favorite foods this holiday season. I’ve broken down some traditional beliefs and explained the truth... read on to make this a happy, healthy, and nutritionally-sound holiday time:

MYTH #1: Most people gain between 5-10 pounds between Thanksgiving and Christmas. THE TRUTH: According to a study published in The New England Journal of Medicine, the average weight gain between these two holidays is less than one pound. Still, this does not give you the green light to go crazy during the November and December months. It is still important to practice portioncontrol and be selective about what holiday treats you’d like to indulge in, as well as those you can go without. In other words, you have the power to prevent this nutrition myth from becoming your reality. MYTH #2: It is best to eat a light meal (or even no meal) before the holiday dinners.

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THE TRUTH: Many people skip meals and snacks leading up to holiday events in an effort to “save” calories for the party or dinner. The problem with this is that by the time they are presented with food at the gathering, they are so hungry that they end up overeating. It is best to eat balanced meals and snacks as you normally would prior to the event and then enjoy a reasonable portion of food at the dinner party. MYTH #3: Choose “healthier” versions of desserts like “sugar-free” or “fatfree” cakes and pies. THE TRUTH: The “sugar-free” or “fat-free” versions of your favorite desserts are usually not any healthier, and they certainly do not taste as delicious. When you take out one nutrient, say fat for example, you need to add other ingredients (perhaps sugar or salt) in order for the taste and structure of the end result to come out similar. If your grandmother’s pecan pie is what you look forward to at Thanksgiving dinner, make sure to load up on lean turkey and non-starchy vegetables first. Balance the dessert with a more nutritious dinner meal beforehand.

MYTH #4: Your _____ (insert: stuffing, turkey, pot roast, pumpkin pie, etc.) is healthier if it is organic. THE TRUTH: According to the USDA (United States Department of Agriculture), organic foods are guaranteed to be grown without artificial flavors, colors, sweeteners, most preservatives, and toxic pesticides/ fertilizers. Also, organic foods have not been genetically modified. Although they are certainly better for the environment, they are not necessarily more nutritious. Bottom line? Just because your pumpkin pie is “organic,” does not mean that you should have more than a small slice (at most).

MYTH #5: The dark meat of the turkey is unhealthy. THE TRUTH: It is certainly true that skinless white turkey meat is the lowest in both fat and calories. Still, the dark meat portion of poultry is not necessarily “unhealthy.” In fact, it has more iron and zinc than the white meat cuts. Similarly, dark meat turkey has less total saturated fat than red meat. MYTH #6: All canned foods should be avoided. THE TRUTH: In many cases, fresh or frozen fruits and vegetables are more nutritious than the canned varieties. Not only are many cans lined with BPA, a potential carcinogen, but also many canned foods are loaded with added

salt or sugar. Still, it is possible to buy canned goods that are nutritionallysound. Start by buying BPA-free cans and then switch to salt-free or no added syrup varieties. It is always best to season the items yourself with fresh herbs and spices. So what is the bottom line? Can one unhealthy day “undo” all the other healthy days you’re worked towards? THE TRUTH: Although you may try your best to eat a healthy diet and exercise regularly, you are only human and you may choose to “indulge” a little more than usual during holiday time. However, keep in mind that it is a holi-DAY, not a holi-WEEK. Keep portions in check and be selective about which less-nutritious foods you are going to enjoy. Although it is difficult to really “undo” a healthy diet in ONE day, many people fail to get back on track immediately afterwards. Of course, an “atypical day” may leave you feeling uncomfortably bloated and just “off” the following day. However, course-correct the very next day (this includes eating responsibly, staying hydrated, and resuming your fitness routine) and you’ll prevent a real change in weight. Ultimately it is when we let our holiday indulgences linger for extra time that a real change in our waistlines is less avoidable. On that note, MAKE IT A HAPPY AND HEALTHY HOLIDAY SEASON!! Dec/Jan 2015 | 77

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Borgo Pignano A Retreat Fit for Renaissance Royalty

By Christopher A. Pape & Jennifer Pelaez

erched on a hilltop originally occupied by the ancient Etruscans, Borgo Pignano is everything you would expect from an 18th-century Tuscan estate turned luxury hotel. Strategically set in the heart of Tuscany, perfectly situated near the towns of Siena, Florence, and Pisa, this magnificent boutique hideaway is a sprawling 750-acres of natural beauty surrounded by woods, fields with organically growing crops, olive groves, ponds, and vegetable gardens. The borgo, which translates into hamlet, is comprised of the main villa, a charming small 13th-century church, and several restored stone farmhouses which are tended by a group of locals and friends committed to a healthy and sustainable way of life. The ethos at the well-run Borgo Pignano is one

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of community and slow living, offering that bohemian hospitality while also imparting comfort and the grandeur of a noble estate. The character, atmosphere, and the design of Borgo Pignano are certainly traditional and old-world, however in function and decor it has kept up with the times. Spread out on three floors, the estate boasts 14 elegant bedrooms and suites, several public rooms, a library, music room, wine cellars, and a medieval banquet room and ballroom. Inside, Italian etchings hang throughout the main house and original frescoes adorn the walls of many guest rooms which are each distinct and decorated in period Italian style. Luxury amenities like fine linens, deluxe state-of-the art fixtures, and travertine bathrooms remind you that you are indeed in a five-star hotel.

Whether you choose to stay in a luxurious suite, a cozy apartment, or your very own private maisonnette, you will relish in the exceptional service and feel inspired by the aura of the glorious days of the Renaissance. Whether you are looking to relax on the estate or explore the nearby medieval towns, cities and Etruscan sites, there are enough activities for the whole family to enjoy. Soak up the sun next to the spectacular infinity-edge salt-water swimming pool carved from an ancient limestone quarry or get a workout by taking a climb up to the villaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s small tower from where on a clear day you can take in the brilliant views from Monte Amiata to Corsica. Get in touch with your creative self by take a painting or cooking class. Reboot your inner peace with a yoga class in the spectacular ballroom or engage in some competitive gaming with some bocce ball. Appreciate mother nature as you stroll through one of several gardens which are not only vibrant and aromatic but in harmony with the rest of the beautiful landscape.

If you wish to explore outside the hamlet, Borgo Pignano can customize itineraries for any type of excursion that may interest you, from thermal baths to shopping jaunts, to scenic back road driving adventures. Be sure to tour some of the best vineyards and cellars in the Chianti and Brunello regions with a stop in nearby San Gimignano which is known for its superb white wines. Back at Borgo Pignano, immerse yourself in the flavors of Tuscany with a wide range of organic dishes made from the freshest ingredients sourced right on the property and neighboring farms. Bread, honey, jams, olive oil, just to name a few, are all made on site and focus on quality and maintaining the integrity of each product. The menus are adjusted seasonally and reflect the simplicity and natural goodness of the borgo. These delicious flavors pair perfectly with the impressive list of local wines, a constant reminder you are in one of the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most notable wine regions. Combined with the tranquil setting, a trip to Borgo Pignano is pure escapism and serenity. borgopignano.com condenastjohansens.com

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RELAIS Borgo SanTO Pietro A Tuscan Fairytale

By Christopher A. Pape & Jennifer Pelaez

estled in the heart of the verdant Tuscan countryside, amid the soft rolling hills south of Siena, near the medieval village of Chiusdino, Relais Borgo Santo Pietro stands as a charismatic and charming boutique hotel where nature meets rustic splendor. Once a sanctuary for pilgrims walking along the Via Francigena on their way to Rome, Relais Borgo Santo Pietro continues to be a haven of silence and relaxation that makes it the ideal place to escape from the chaos of everyday life. A small oasis of luxury, this 13th-century villa was recently renovated and features all the expected modern amenities of a top-notch establishment, yet also maintains its authenticity and simple elegance. With just 15 rooms and suites, the general feeling of relaxed seclusion makes the Relais Borgo Santo Pietro feel like more of a romantic retreat than hotel. The decor can be described as provincial glamour and has been enlivened by antique furniture and murals accented by stunning crystal chandeliers.

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Similarly, the rooms are furnished in an opulent style, embellished with antiques, silks, tapestries, magnificent beds and frescoed walls. Most rooms include a living room and feature open fireplaces. After lounging in the beautiful accommodations, stroll through the pristine grounds and take in the delicate floral perfume of the surrounding gardens. After, luxuriate in the infinity pool as you soak up the stunning views over the valley. Although you may not be tempted to leave this hideaway of peace and nature, sightseers should be sure to take advantage of the hotel's excursions, like exclusive private wine-tastings which are surely the highlight of any trip to Tuscany. Visit the famous wineries of Chianti and Montalcino, that have made the Italian wines famous all over the world or enjoy an intimate wine-tasting in Borgoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s own cellar. Day trips to Siena, just 35 minutes away or Florence, about an hourâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s drive, is a scenic adventure you will not want to miss.

La Bottega del Buon Caffè

When it comes to savory five- star quality dining, for which Tuscany is so well known for, the dining options in this region do not disappoint. Book a table at the formal in-house Meo Modo restaurant, where chef Andrea Mattei creates mouth-watering Mediterranean seafood and handmade pasta dishes. Indulge by ordering the five-course Tuscan Traditions menu which showcase all the local delicacies. For more casual fare, head up to the appropriately named Treehouse Bar, a floating and informal trattoria enveloped by branches making you feel at one with the exquisite landscape. Food connoisseurs should partake in a fine-dining excursion to yet another five-star establishment in nearby Florence - the well-respected Bottega del Buon Caffè, also belonging to the same owners of Relais Borgo Santo Pietro. The very freshest ingredients are harvested from Borgo’s farms and successfully showcase the ‘Farm to Plate’ experience. This Michelin starred

restaurant offers an innovative and seasonal menu, designed to reflect this region’s unique gastronomic heritage while also combining the local flavors into fresh and modern creations. Enjoy unique dishes like the homemade Cappelletti pasta with pigeon or the Amberjack fish served as tartar, belly, and fillet. Regardless of your selection, you will certainly experience the fusion of classic Florentine style with a relaxed sense of elegance. For a romantic evening, be sure to dine al-fresco, beneath the magical shadows of the medieval tower of San Niccolò. The vibrant yet intimate atmosphere, chic décor, and fresh, beautifully presented delectable dishes make La Bottega del Buon Caffè a must-do on any itinerary.

borgosantopietro.com borgointhecity.com Dec/Jan 2015 | 81

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Conti di San Bonifacio Where Wine is King

By Christopher A. Pape & Hillary Latos

xperience the immense joys of the Tuscan lifestyle at Conti di San Bonifacio Wine Resort. As a boutique seven room hotel, this intimate setting is the perfect getaway to see why so many people have fallen under the magic spell of the countryside. Built in the traditional Tuscan style, it feels as if itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s your own slice of paradise.

medieval villages. The boutique wines have earned accolades around the world with vintages only released at their peak. Years of experience has given the winemakers the perfect hand to create optimal blends of their award winning wines such as the Monteregio di Massa Maritima, Bordelaise style Docet IGT, 100% Syrah Super Tuscan, and Extra Dry Treviso Prosecco.

Conti di San Bonifacio is located on an actual working vineyard thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s situated between the Maremmana Hills and the coastal plains of the Tuscan coast, which is a perfect spot to explore the area dotted with perfectly preserved

Set on a hill overlooking the vast rolling vineyards is their romantic boutique hotel. Rooms are designed with total relaxation in mind and each room reflects a distinct character and design. Those looking for romance will be

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swept away in the olive junior suite or master suite. At the centerpiece of the 800 square foot neutral palette room is a gauze covered 4 poster bed set in a rustic countryside dĂŠcor with exposed beam ceilings and fur covered chairs lit by an antique chandelier. The claw foot bathtub is also large enough for two for a romantic getaway. Take in the fragrant scent of the olive trees below from the sunbeds on your large private terrace overlooking the Tuscan hills. The vineyard suites have a rustic stone cottage feel with exposed chestnut beams, sumptuous antique velvet and leather furnishings, spacious modern bathrooms, with a private terrace with sun beds offering a breathtaking view over the Conti di Bonifacio vineyards to feel at one with nature.

modern twist. Everything is organically grown and made on property from their herbs and vegetables to their pressed olive oil sourced and wine. Dine alfresco during warmer months and take in the panoramic views overlooking the gorgeous vineyards and countryside for an unforgettable experience. Even learn how to cook Tuscan style from their internationally renowned Executive chef, Jacopo Cammozza. He has culled his experience from fine kitchens around the world from the Cordon Bleu in Sydney to Milan before returning to his roots in Tuscany where he finds â&#x20AC;&#x153;nature at its best and most pure to create plates that reflect the best that this countryside has to offer- food at its best.â&#x20AC;?

The Maramenna restaurant specializes in Tuscan home cooking. All of the ingredients are sourced locally using traditional Italian methods with a

Contidisanbonifacio.com condenastjohansens.com Dec/Jan 2015 | 83

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Turkey

The Crossroads of East and West

By Jennifer Pelaez

ridging the gate between Europe and Asia, Turkey is not only the crossroads of East and West and the successor of seven great civilizations, but also a county with a captivating fusion of old world charm with an up and coming contemporary scene fostering an influx of new hotels and resorts. Boasting a spectacular coastline dotted with stunning beaches, cosmopolitan cities with superb architecture, and quaint villages, it is one of the best countries to experience both the oriental splendor and the modern dynamics of Europe. This contrast of antiquity and modernity is most evidenced in the sprawling metropolis of Istanbul, where the domes and minarets of the Ottoman mosques and palaces dominate the city skyline, and where the ancient treasures are offset by the bustling energy of shops, restaurants and modern designs like the Istanbul Museum of Modern Arts and hip neighborhoods like Galata and Karakoy that reveal the burgeoning art scene and are as enticing as the ubiquitous delectable baklava shops.

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This too translates into the choice of accommodations which reflect this spectrum of old and new. Once the residence of the last Ottoman Sultans, Istanbul’s most luxurious hotel - the legendary Ciragan Palace Kempinski, has been restored to its former glory showcasing the architectural grandeur of the palace with the modern comfort of a five-star hotel. Sitting on the coveted Bosphorus, with spectacular views and first class service, it’s no wonder it has hosted dignitaries and celebrities from around the world. Similarly across town in Beyoglu, the Pera Palace Hotel Jumeirah must not be missed. Opened primarily to serve Orient Express clientele in the late 1800’s, Pera Palace continues to be regarded as a symbol of luxury and elegance, fit for a royal. In contrast to this old world glamour, some new hotels have set their sights on this most coveted destination, creating grand designs like the sleek and stunning Raffles which is a modern reflection of Istanbul’s rich past.

Leaving the hustle and bustle of this mystifying city behind, a short hour flight inland to the renowned area of Cappadocia offers a completely different perspective. The spaciousness and beauty of this region is a sight to behold. The fields of naturally-hewn fairy chimneys and rock caves have intrigued visitors here for years, and for good reason. Explore the UNESCO World Heritage site of Göreme National Park, a stunning open air-museum, as well as the underground city at Kaymakli, or view from above in a hot air balloon. Pick up some authentic ceramics at the first underground pottery and mosaic museum of its kind, Güray Müze, while admiring both the traditional and modern works of local artists. The evenings are best spent enjoying savory meals and wine tastings, and no better place than in nearby Argos in Cappadocia, a monastery turned modern luxury hotel, where carefully restored tunnels and caves form a complex of authentic stone rooms and where you can take in the panoramic views of this awe-inspiring terrain. As

in Istanbul, this region is seeing some new upscale hotels taking root such as the charming The House Hotel, a collection of ancient caves and stone houses. Its design and interior are inspired by its physical surroundings and strike the perfect balance between preserving the region’s heritage and modern comfort. Despite its far from ideal neighbors, Turkey indeed offers a unique perspective and experience, not only by its strategic position and distinct history but because it’s culture and people are welcoming and continue to perpetuate that traditional unconditional hospitality. It is a land where traditions thrive in a contemporary world.

kempinski.com argosincappadocia.com thehousehotel.com Dec/Jan 2015 | 85

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Bovey Castle A Weekend In The Country By Joe Alexander The Hound of the Baskervilles Bovey Castle is a scenic two-hour ride from London to Devon. This part of England has some of the most beautiful and bucolic countryside in the United Kingdom, replete with rolling hills, dales, and meandering rivers. Nearby in Dartmoor National Park are the wild and mysterious moors, where Sir Arthur Conan Doyle set his iconic Sherlock Holmes book The Hound of the Baskervilles. Bovey Castle is a beloved landmark that has stood the test of time. Detmar Blow, an English architect who designed for the aristocracy, built it for the second Viscount Hambleden in 1907. This grand Jacobean pile sits on 275 acres on the edge of the endlessly breathtaking Dartmoor countryside. In 1930, it was converted into the Manor House Hotel and was popular with the rich and famous of the period who wanted a traditional country house experience and all of its associated pursuits without the exorbitant upkeep. In 2003, debonair entrepreneur and hotelier Peter de Savary bought and painstakingly refurbished the property and renamed it Bovey Castle. 86 | 25A www.25Amagazine.com

The Cathedral Room Although the castle is large, it has a charming intimacy that reveals its roots as a private home. Off the entrance, where the antlers of various animals are displayed, there are two drawings rooms, the Cathedral Room and the Adam Room, each with its own distinct dĂŠcor and a welcoming fireplace where you can have tea, read the paper or play cards. There is also a well-stocked wood paneled bar where you can have a cocktail or a hot toddy, depending on the season. The historic ambiance of each room is evoked by its neo-Elizabethan style with oak paneled chambers, period portraits, antiques, gilded mirrors and comfortable furnishings. There are 64 uniquely designed rooms in the castle and 14 three-story stone lodges on the grounds, which are perfect for a family or a group of friends. I recommend staying on the top floor of the castle in the Chairmanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Suite. The lead-paned windows face the lush green of the golf course and the hills and dales that dot the horizon. This spacious and perfectly appointed suite has views to the front and the back of the castle and a bathroom with

a soaking tub with its own spectacular vista. This cozy suite has its own entrance hall and a second bedroom. Because this is a family friendly hotel, do bring the kids and the dogs. It is the only hotel in the world to offer a LEGO Room Service Menu, where children can choose from a selection of toys and have them delivered right to their doors. The Championship PGA Golf Course To reach the imposing gates of Bovey Castle, you drive down a winding road alongside one of the fairways of the castle's championship 19,000foot golf course. J.F. Abercromby, one of the last century's most renowned designers, created the gold course to rival its sister courses at Gleneagles and Turnberry, in 1926. The Bovey and Bowden Rivers meander through the course, making it all the more attractive to play or walk on. The castle hosted the PGA's Lombard Challenge in 2013. If you aren’t in the mood to play 18 holes, try the 9-hole putting green that’s perched on the terrace of the castle’s front lawn with a view of the river or jump in a golf cart and take a tour of the lush gardens and ponds that surround the estate. Do drive down to the driving range with a basket of balls and your clubs; it’s fun, and no one’s keeping score.

War Horse Every morning there is a thrilling falconry display by Mr. Martin Whitley. If it’s raining, they do the show indoors in the Great Room. He will organize your own expedition if you book ahead so the birds will be hungry enough to hunt and then you can roam the countryside in search of rabbits and pheasants. All the traditional country purists are offered: horseback riding, archery, skeet and fly-fishing The scenery is the main attraction here and walking through the woods, along the stream and climbing over a stone wall or two to the Ring of Bells Inn for fish and chips and a pint of ale makes for a pleasant afternoon. The enchanting village with its cobblestone streets and thatched-roof cottages where the window boxes are stuffed with geraniums is the classic England you read about in books and see in the movies. After lunch, walk across the village green and visit the ancient Parish Church of St. John the Baptist and the cemetery with graves dating back to the 14th century. On the way home, you’ll walk by pastures with grazing cows and horses behind high-stone fences. Take an apple or two from the pub and toss it to a grateful mare or feed her a lump of sugar if no one’s looking. boveycastle.com Dec/Jan 2015 | 87

Shakespeare's Birthplace

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Visiting Shakespeare's Birthplace Stratford-Upon Avon

By Victoria Crosby | Photo Credits The Shakespeare Birthplace Trust My visit to Shakespeare’s Birthplace in Stratford-upon-Avon, this year was at the invitation of the chief executive officer, Dr. Diana Owen, who I had met in New York this spring at the residence of the British Consul General. Some of the town’s buildings are currently being renovated, with new attractions due to open in 2016 to mark the 400th anniversary of Shakespeare’s death. The pleasant train journey from London took a little over an hour through the English countryside. There are lots of shops and restaurants in Stratfordupon-Avon, a small market town in Warwickshire, as well as boat tours on the River Avon, and the Royal Shakespeare theatre which overlooks the river. Musicians performed on the streets most populated by tourists, playing for tips, just as in New York. Upon arrival at the Shakespeare Centre, headquarters of the Shakespeare Birthplace Trust based next to Shakespeare’s Birthplace on Henley Street, I was met by Alisan Cole, PR and Public Affairs Executive, Helen Prince, Head of Development and Catherine Fannin Peel, International Education and Development Executive, and given a wonderful tour of the museum’s Famous Beyond Words exhibition, complete with rare and important artefacts including the First Folio, before visiting the adjoining half-timbered 16th century house where Shakespeare was born and grew up. As with so many other historical places, it was saved by interested and influential people who wished to preserve history. American showman, P. T. Barnum is said to have wanted to purchase the property when it was being sold in 1846, and transport it, "brick by brick", back to America for exhibition, but British 88 | 25A www.25Amagazine.com

writer Charles Dickens, helped raise the funds to purchase it and keep it in Stratford upon Avon. A committee was formed at that time, which eventually became the Shakespeare Birthplace Trust, and the restoration process began. John Shakespeare, William’s father, was a glove maker, and visitors as they tour the house can see where the family lived and worked with demonstrations in the glove making process. Outside in the garden, costumed actors portray scenes from Shakespeare’s play at a moment’s notice, on request from visitors. This feature, Shakespeare Aloud, is very popular with visitors of all ages, as it truly makes the experience come alive. The gardens, in full bloom during my visit, are exquisite, planted with flowers that would have been prevalent in Shakespeare’s day. After visiting Shakespeare’s Birthplace we walked down the street a short distance to New Place, the site of Shakespeare’s grand family home from 1597 – 1616, where he wrote some of his greatest plays. New Place and neighbouring Nash’s House (home of Shakespeare’s granddaughter Elizabeth and her husband Thomas Nash), will be transformed into a new heritage attraction to mark the 400th anniversary celebrations of Shakespeare’s legacy in 2016. Shakespeare’s New Place will tell the story of Shakespeare in the prime of his life - the father, husband, playwright and businessman, demonstrating his enduring influence across the globe. This new heritage

Another Tudor building on High Street, worth a visit, is Harvard House, an exquisite Elizabethan town house built in 1596 and the ancestral home of John Harvard, 1607-1638, the founder of Harvard University in Boston. It is very likely that Harvard’s grandfather Thomas Rogers, a wealthy corn and cattle merchant, and Shakespeare knew each other. The school that Shakespeare attended is still a school today, and walking through Stratford-upon-Avon is a definite step back in time, although the buildings are a mix of old and modern, you can imagine the people on the streets in dress of the 1600’s and horse drawn carriages in place of cars. There are plenty of children’s activities at the Shakespeare family homes, and when I was there children had sent poems as part of the town’s annual poetry festival, which were displayed on the fence outside the Birthplace. There are five properties altogether on the tour, all strongly connected to William Shakespeare, including Mary Arden’s Farm, where Shakespeare's mother grew up and now a real working Tudor farmwhere you can see rare breed animals and displays of falconry and blacksmithing; also the beautiful Anne Hathaway’s Cottage and Gardens, family home of Shakespeare’s wife, and Hall’s Croft, the home of Shakespeare’s daughter Susanna and her husband, Dr. John Hall, who was a well to do physician. A short walk from Shakespeare’s Birthplace is Holy Trinity Church, where Shakespeare was baptised and is buried. St. Peter’s Chapel has an

Harvard House

Shakespeare's Garden Ann Hathaway's Cottage landmark will allow visitors to walk across the footprint of Shakespeare’s home, through beautiful gardens on the land he owned, and end with a dynamic new exhibition showcasing his life. Shakespeare’s New Place is scheduled to open in summer 2016.

American window unveiled in 1896 by the American Ambassador and inscribed The Gift of America to Shakespeare’s Church.’ There is also a large bible open at Psalm 46. It was pointed out to me that in a certain verse the word shake, as in the mountains shake, then in a later verse to the word spear, as in cutteth (or shatters) the spear. This of course, varies slightly in different bibles, but it does give you chills when reading it near the tomb of William Shakespeare! The Shakespeare Birthplace Trust receives no public funding, and relies on donations from visitors and revenue from ticket sales and gift shops to maintain and conserve the five properties it cares for. The Trust also recently launched Shakespeare’s Birthplace America, a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to helping Americans connect with Shakespeare’s life, works and times, and support the vital work it does in the US and Stratford-upon-Avon. shakespearesbirthplaceamerica.com While at the gift shop among the items I purchased was a poster with quotes from Shakespeare that has become part of our everyday language, like it’s all Greek to me, or green eyed jealousy, or without rhyme or reason. One expression that I had thought came after Shakespeare’s time, but actually didn’t, was, What the Dickens! Apparently it was in common use in Shakespeare’s day and had nothing to do with Charles Dickens. Although I just visited for the day and saw a great deal, I would suggest spending at least two or three days there, to see not only all the historic buildings, but attend the theatre, take a boat ride on the Avon, and enjoy the many charming shops, tea rooms, restaurants and pubs. Shakespeare.org.uk Dec/Jan 2015 | 89

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Palazzo Parigi A Splendid Milanese Retreat

By Hillary Latos

f Rome is the Eternal City, Milan is the Eternal City of style where the worlds of fashion, food and furniture embody the Milanese sense of effortless perfection. At the heart of Milanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s fashion district is the Palazzo Parigi, a member of the Leading Hotels of the World which is synonymous with opulence and grandeur throughout the world. The resplendent Palazzo Parigi offers five star living in the heart of Milan. Inspired by the majestic palaces of France, the regal space combines understated French elegance combined with a contemporary Milanese aesthetic that exudes nobility. Immediately approaching the lobby you will feel like royalty in the dramatic marble foyer lined with priceless art and antiques lit by a dazzling crystal chandelier. The suite sized rooms are designed like that chic pied a terre youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve always dreamed about bathed in natural light with balconies overlooking the Duomo and downtown Milanese landscape. Soothe your senses in their luxuriously appointed state of the art rooms awash in a sumptuous neutral palette of soft greys, beiges, ivory and black featuring tufted beds dressed in fine Egyptian cotton linens, contemporary custom furnishings and large Carrera marble bathrooms.

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For causal fare dine at the uber stylish CaffĂŠ Parigi bistro lounge that is open til the wee hours and serves everything from breakfast to a late night dinner and is already a favorite amongst local Milanese cognoscenti. The warm and elegant dining room features wood inlay mosaic floors, plush furnishings with a backlit onyx bar making it an inviting space for a business meeting or a night cap. In warmer months have breakfast or lunch alfresco under centuries old trees in their charming adjacent garden. For gourmands, dine at the appropriately named Gourmet Restaurant that serves formal gastronomic fine Italian cuisine in a neo classical and theatrical setting replete with works of art from the 17th to the 19th centuries with a hand painted ceiling. Specializing in Northern Italian cuisine, classic dishes have a contemporary twist such as courgette cream with black truffle scented bass brandade, curry scented bass with asparagus, veal chop Milanese and Puntarelle and anchovies salad are all elegantly presented with a fine attention to detail and taste, much like the Palazzo Parigi itself. palazzoparigi.com lhw.com

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Four Seasons Milan A Milanese Delight

By Sarah Pincus

ith year-round elegance and culture, Milan, the heart of Italian style, is the perfect place for any luxury-seeking vacationer. What better place to find sophistication than the chic and lavish Four Seasons, Milan? This Four Seasons hotel is a refurbished 15th century convent that boasts extravagance and comfort as well as an exquisite dining experience.

15th century architectural details and fused with timeless Italian design. Each room in the Four Seasons is unique and offers an inviting view of the courtyard, the stylish Via Gesu or the private gardens. Of the rooms available there are three options, premium, deluxe and superior. Each room is spacious and designed to please, providing plush terry cloth robes and 24-hour room service.

La Veranda, the conveniently located hotel restaurant, offers a titillating menu, with a combination of mouthwatering Mediterranean and local cuisine. Vegetarians need not fear, for La Veranda provides fully compliant vegetarian dishes as well as a childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s menu- so the whole family can enjoy an authentic Italian dining experience. On beautiful summer days there is also the option of outdoor seating.

Several different suites are available at the Four Seasons, each as exquisite as the next with unparalleled charm and grace. The suites were designed with style and comfort in mind, offering the inhabitant an enticing taste of what Milan has to offer through its architecture and design. Conscious of families and guests, the hotel offers extra beds and cribs that can be brought into the room or suite at the occupantâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s convenience.

As far as menus go, La Veranda offers a variety of options, including, a business lunch, a weekend garden lunch and a tasting menu. Delicious appetizers include Beef Filet Carpaccio with Grana Cheese, Mushrooms and Mustard and a Lobster Salad with Fennel, Water Cress and Mango. First courses include a mouth-watering Artisanal Linguine Pasta with Veraci Clams and Mullet Roe and main courses, featuring succulent dishes such as Browned Croaker Fish with Chickpeas, Chanterelle Mushrooms and Sun-dried Peppers, as well as meat courses, vegetarian courses and ofcourse, dessert.

For the tranquility and leisure of the client, the Four Seasons offers a 7-day a week spa, as well as a salon open from Monday through Saturday. One can be pampered in 7 different treatment rooms for a satisfying massage, facials, nail and body treatments as well as have access to an exclusive couples spa suite for romantic relaxation.

When it comes to accommodations, The Four Seasons does not disappoint. The alluring 118 suites and rooms available are designed around magnificent 92 | 25A www.25Amagazine.com

For the perfect vacation, the perfect accommodations are a must. What can be more perfect than a state-of-the-art hotel, passionately designed with culture and pleasure in mind? The Four Seasons Milan is the jewel on the Italian destination crown. fourseasons.com/milan

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Four Seasons Florence A Florentine Odyssey

By Hillary Latos

egarded as the birthplace of the Italian Renaissance, Florence is considered to be one of the most beautiful cities in the world. A testament to the wealth and grandeur of the medieval period, the breathtaking landscape is characterized by majestic palaces and stately buildings dating back to the 14th century with world famous galleries housing some of the most important artwork from the Middle Ages. Tucked away in a quiet residential neighborhood near the Accademia Gallery that holds Michaelangelo’s David sculpture is the the Four Seasons, a five star urban oasis that is the perfect respite from a day of sightseeing. Facing an 11 acre lush public park, this palatial resort is comprised of a converted 16th century convent and the 15th century Palazzo della Gherardesca reflecting a haute bourgeois Renaissance décor. Adorned with elegant Florentine antiques and frescos, the public areas feel like walking through a Medici’s castle. The spacious suite sized rooms are luxuriously appointed with sumptuous furnishings and French doors opening to treetop views over the lush park. Though it’s only a 15 minute walk from the Duomo it is close enough to the many attractions of Florence but far enough from the throngs of tourists to rejuvenate.

grey palette with beautiful Murano glass chandeliers to add to the dramatic atmosphere. Executive chef Vito Mollica specializes in classic Tuscan recipes but infuses his fare with French techniques to create a sublime modern menu to satiate the palate. A true veteran of the Four Seasons kitchens, Chef Mollica began his tenure at the Four Seasons Milan before moving to Prague and back to Tuscany in the Florence property. The best way to experience this culinary journey is through the Chef’s 5 course tasting menu that changes seasonally for 110 euros. Start with delights such as the lobster salad with celery veils, followed by an onion filled with pheasant parfait, almond and sweet garlic sauce, pumpkin risotto with wood pigeon ragout, and venison loin with creamed chestnut and pomegranate reduction. Other specialties of the house include the cacio e pepe cavatelli pasta with red prawns and squid, and the spicy linguine with chili, raw scampi and anchovy sauce. To experience the splendor of fine Tuscan cuisine, try the beef chateaubriand with seared foie gras and gratinated bone marrow or the quail filled with figs with creamed celeriac and seared foie gras. End the resplendent meal with a rich but satisfying desert such as the chestnut soufflé or the vin santo sabayon, because after all Florence is known for its art, history, and most importantly their cuisine.

One of the highlights of the Four Seasons is the opulent Michelin starred signature restaurant, Il Palagio. The chic dining room is awash in a pearl

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Novotel's Supernova Ball Drop Spectacular A Great Place to Celebrate New Year's Eve By Salome Langvin Why wait hours in the bitter cold without access to even basic comforts, to get a so-so view of the world-renowned Times Square ball drop on New Year’s Eve? Knock Times Square New Year’s Eve off your bucket list in style at Novotel New York’s Supernova Ball Drop spectacular! The Fourth Annual Supernova Ball Drop takes place from 9:00pm – 3:00am on December 31st, 2015 at Novotel’s Supernova, a newly redesigned, sophisticated event space with a heated outdoor terrace providing for the unique view of the Waterford crystal ball drop. Every area of the space inside the venue and on its 5,700 square foot terrace has unblocked views of the ball drop, which makes it a cannot-miss event for New Yorkers and international revelers, who travel from more than 15 countries to experience the magic and energy of Times Square as it enters January 1, 2016. The elegant venue offers unmatched ambience and energy in the run-up to midnight and beyond. This year’s entertainment program at Supernova features aerial acrobatic performers to entertain guests with a Cirque Du Soleil-inspired show, and famous DJ Pollux Star (a.k.a. “the People’s DJ”) spins the best tunes as guests hit the dance floor, conveniently located in the center of the space. 96 | 25A www.25Amagazine.com

Revelers enjoy VIP table service, a six hour premium open bar and a midnight Champagne toast along with gourmet passed hors d'oeuvres and succulent sweets. Supernova Ball Drop is offering two lucky guests the chance to win an exceptional New Year’s Eve VIP package worth $10,000 at Supernova this December 31, 2015. The winners will experience the ball drop from a private heated outdoor booth on the terrace, one bottle of Dom Perignon for the midnight toast, and of course, access to the party, open bar and passed hors d’oeuvres. Enter to win the contest online at TimesSquareBucketList.com Guests 18 years and over are welcome to attend this elegant event, and although welcome children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. “New Year’s Eve Best” attire is required. Event tickets start at $348 (taxes and operating expenses excluded) with Exclusive VIP package including four-night stay in modern spacious room with access to Supernova Ball Drop event starting at $3,599 (taxes and operating expenses excluded). Additionally, Supernova has excellent private spaces for bookings with 10 guests or more. supernovaballdrop.com

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A Royal Wedding

Countess and Award Winning Actress Julianne Michelle

By W.A. Muller

ountess Julianne Michelle, 28, looked stunningly beautiful as she and her father, Count Joseph Di Palma, stepped out of a 1933 Rolls Royce, which was built for a grandchild of Queen Victoria, when they arrived at The Church of St. Ignatius Loyola on Park Avenue and 84th Street in Manhattan at 1pm on Saturday, November 21, 2015.

Julianne Michelle married Karl Christian Reeves. The ceremony was officiated by Fr. Daniel O'Hare in a magnificent setting. A reception, cocktails, dinner and dancing followed at the Union League Club on Park Avenue and 37th Street at 5pm. Guests at this Royal wedding included celebrities, philanthropists, family and close friends, who danced the night away. 98 | 25A www.25Amagazine.com

Julianne has starred in 32 motion pictures and a few TV series. She is a two time winner of the "Best Actress" award, at the NYCIFF and the Flash Foundation Young FF in Poland, for her superb performances in the motion pictures Awakened with Edward Furlong and Steven Bauer, and The House is Burning with Oscar Winner Melissa Leo respectively. She is also a 3 time nominee for Best Actress from Youth in Film, and Young Artists Awards in Hollywood. She starred and appeared in many other movies including, Apartment 1303 in 3-D with (Misha Barton and Rebecca DeMornay, Shannon's Rainbow (aka Amazing Racer) with Scott Eastwood, Eric Roberts, and OSCAR winner Louis Gossett Jr.), Family Prayers (with Anne Archer, Joe Mantegna and Patti LuPone) and Wall Street; Money Never Sleeps (with Michael Douglas). Julianne is signed on to star in The Coffee Cafe Trilogy in 2016.

Julianne Michelle attended Marymount High School on Fifth Avenue and Marymount Manhattan College, and she is presently studying for her Masters Degree at Columbia University. When Julianne was 13 years old she was named one of "Twenty Teens Who Will Change The World" by Teen People Magazine and on the WB TV Special. That same year she was selected as 1 of "Five Top Teens in the World" by L'Oreal Paris. She is also a Free Style Figure 4 ice skater and an artist specializing in oil portraits. She plays guitar and has written the music and lyrics to a number of songs including four songs on the soundtrack of the inspirational motion picture Awakened, in which she stars. Julianne's line of self designed jewelry "JULS" will appear in magazines and in stores in February 2016.Â Julianne Michelle chairs a number of charity events, including "The Children at Heart Celebrity Auction and Dinner" (Chairman Steven Spielberg and Jon Voight) to benefit the Children of Chernobyl, St. Jude Children's Hospital and "Winter Fete" to benefit Memorial Sloane Kettering. Karl Christian Reeves is CEO of Consolidated Elevator Corp. in Manhattan. Mr. Reeves is also an investor in real estate and a philanthropist. The bride's father is Count Joseph Di Palma. He is a graduate of Columbia College, Fordham Law School and he received his LL.M from NYU. Count

Di Palma is an attorney, TV producer and Real Estate Investor, who resides in Manhattan, Beverly Hills and Las Vegas. His family traces back to Norway, then on to Normandy, France to Italy and the first Count of Aversa. Julianne has the title Countess Julianne Michelle. She is named after Queen Julianna of The Netherlands. Julianne is President of Supernova Media, a feature film and TV production company in Manhattan. The bride's mother is Countess Joycelyn Engle Di Palma of 930 Fifth Avenue, Manhattan. She attended UCLA and HB Studio. She resides in Manhattan, Beverly Hills and Las Vegas. Countess Joycelyn Engle Di Palma is Vice President of Supernova Media. She is a writer, feature film producer, director and speech and image consultant. Julianne and Karl met at a friend's party in Manhattan in November, one year ago. Julianne was in no rush to marry anyone. She always wanted to marry at age 35. Somehow, he swept her off her feet. Karl Reeves is quite a gentleman. Before asking Julianne to marry him, he asked her father for permission and blessings. Then, in a most romantic setting at one of his homes in Miami Beach, Florida he got down on his knees, asked Julianne to please marry him, and he gave her a beautiful diamond ring. Dec/Jan 2015 | 99

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KellyTheO. Mattone, M.D. Secret Weapon Against Aging

By Ryan Wilk

he war against aging is raging on, and one cosmetic physician holds the secret weapon. Dr. Kelly O. Mattone has been an MD for the past 26 years and has been fighting the aging process for both her satisfied patients and herself. She has her own cosmetic practice in Great Neck, New York called Aesthetic Medical Studio. Her office is unlike most other cosmetic practices because of Dr. Mattone’s use of non-surgical procedures and ability to keep patients looking as natural as possible. Patients have walked out of her office describing her as a magician and a sculptor.

solutions and injections can’t restore them, however the Liquid BioCell™ has been clinically proven to increase the collagen and hyaluronic acid levels in the skin. Dr. Mattone’s patients have raved about the wrinkle reduction, increased hydration, plumpness and increased elasticity and tone. This non-surgical dual approach that hits the aging skin at the roots of what’s causing the problem is something that truly can’t be replicated by any other physician. A side effect of Liquid BioCell™ her patients are also astounded about is a reduction in their joint discomfort and their markedly increased mobility!

Dr. Mattone describes herself as having a very artistic view of people’s faces. Her main goal is to make people look their best, without it looking like any procedure was done at all. Since Dr. Mattone works on people’s faces and bodies without the use of surgery or anesthesia, there are a number of procedures that Aesthetic Medical Studio specializes in. Dr. Mattone favors Juvaderm and Botox. Ultherapy is a particular procedure in which Dr. Mattone is one of the best practitioners in the world. This is the only non-invasive procedure that is FDA approved to use ultrasound to simultaneously lift the brow, neck, jowls and décolleté.

Aesthetic Medical Studio further differentiates itself from other cosmetic practices because of its small, friendly and comfortable environment. In addition to being a solo practitioner, Dr. Mattone is a medical expert in the health, beauty and fitness industry. She has traveled the country speaking to perspective doctors and educating them on her own unique techniques. It is through this work that she is spreading her knowledge and expertise with the rest of the medical community so that even more people can benefit from what she does.

Being innovative and constantly striving for more, Dr. Mattone discovered a patented nutraceutical called Liquid BioCell™. The idea behind this nutraceutical is an “inside out” approach to cosmetics, which is what really separates her from her competitors. Visible signs of aging skin are caused by the loss of collagen and hyaluronic acid beneath the surface. Topical 100 | 25A www.25Amagazine.com

Sometimes, a little physician’s office with a small staff and one doctor can be more than meets the eye. Sometimes it turns out to be home to one of the most successful and revolutionary cosmetic doctors around. kellyomd.com agedefyingscience.com

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Dr. Greuner NYC Surgical Associates By W.A. Muller Your health is personal, so why is most of the care out there a one-size fits all approach? A well-renowned New York surgeon is bringing back the personal touch to the medical field, with a team of top tier, world class surgeons. When many high-risk or complicated cases are turned down, NYC Surgical Associates steps in. The jobs not everyone wants to do, they excel in - with confidence and professionalism. It all comes down to being a multi-specialty facility where there are experts of all areas on hand to diagnose and treat unusual medical problems, and adding that concierge level of service to surgery. NYC Surgical is able to provide a single bill for all surgical services, from facilities, to anesthesia, to surgical fees, and pre and postoperative care, which is a huge benefit to those wanting to keep medical costs manageable in the tumultuous world of health care reform in a shaky economy. Doctor Greuner is the managing director and co-founder of NYC Surgical Associates, with over a decade of experience and many accolades under his belt. Greuner says the bar has been set at a new level. The surgeons at NYC Surgical don’t just deliver care; they exceed it by using the least invasive techniques with minimal scar and downtime, with the same or better result than conventional surgery. “Our patients deserve the best available technology, personable doctors, professionalism, with a predictable cost, so they know what they are getting into,” Greuner says. “Its about time people had guarantees in medicine. We guarantee our work and patients have a single, predictable out of costs for all services provided.” Not everyone's diagnosis is the same, so they aren't treated the same at NYC Surgical. Each surgical case presents with a unique set of challenges specific to that patient, so the patient is directed to the particular surgeon 102 | 25A www.25Amagazine.com

who can give them the best possible outcome. “On many of our cases they will use a team approach and more than one surgeon will participate in the procedure, so that the best specialist is available to treat each one of the patients problems that may be co-existing, with no cost increase to the patient, just the best care available.” At their numerous clinics throughout New York, including Roslyn in Long Island and the Hamptons, you can get an x-ray, get immediate results from an in-house lab, get an appointment to see a primary care physician, surgeon, or anesthesiologist on site. The personal touch that is so often lost in today's world with the rise of technology and pressure from insurance companies is what adds to Greuner’s success. He says that surgery is becoming a service field like anything. "If you want to be competitive in the New York area, especially in the age of technology and reviews, you have to provide high-level service. That’s the key. The results will speak for themselves." In many hospital patients are just another number, with no personal touch at all. At NYC Surgical it’s all about having a good relationship with your doctor. “There are many patients that have been treated by our practice for years, and would never go anywhere else. In fact, that is how we keep expanding. Patients want to stay with us, and we adapt to provide the services they need.” Multiple specialty surgeons, cutting edge care, and private practice personal touch… with nine offices total and three more opening next month, it's obviously an approach that is working.

888.286.6600 nycsurgical.net

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Leesa Rowland “Discovering the IT Factor within You.”

By Bennett Marcus

eesa Rowland is on top of the world. An actress, she just wrapped a movie, The Lion’s Den, out in a few months. She’s a passionate animal activist, working with various rescue and welfare organizations, including the Allene Simmons Thoroughbred Assistance Foundation, based in Florida, and her own, Animal Ashram, in New York City. A longtime vegetarian, Rowland is a formidable vegan cook; she’s in a happy relationship with her boyfriend, and she recently published a book, “Discovering the IT Factor Within You.” The book is motivational in nature. “It’s really about finding how to be comfortable in your own skin, no matter what happens to you, and having a sense of inner peace, enthusiasm, and a purpose,” Rowland says. What is this elusive “it factor?” “When you find your passion and true purpose, then you have an enthusiasm that shows through you, and you just want to share it with other people,” she explains, “The French call it je ne sais quoi, which means ‘I know not what,’ but it’s all the same thing.” That’s exactly what “it” is - a force that cannot be adequately described; it just comes through in your personality. Rowland may have figured out some things about how to be your best self, but she walked a long, twisting path to get there. She was the victim

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of domestic abuse at the hands of former boyfriend, actor James Caan, her mother died suspiciously, and subsequently, Rowland suffered from depression. And through all this, she found herself, and peace, and her book shows us how we can, too. Feeling so overwhelmed that she did not want to share her thoughts and feelings with people, Rowland began journaling seven years ago. “You’d be amazed at what comes out in a journal,” she says. “I found that I could write about things that I couldn’t verbalize, and it helped me transcend through different problems.” Rowland’s friends always tell her she should be a life coach, but that doesn’t interest her. “But I thought, maybe this could actually help other people,” she says of her book. “I’m not a psychiatrist, and I make sure everybody knows that,” she adds. “But I find it inspiring to motivate other people.” People with substance abuse problems often reach out to Rowland through the book’s Web site, or on social media, and she says they can benefit from her methods. discoveringtheitfactorwithinyou.com

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Sharon Bush, Sofia Crokos and Cassandra Seidenfeld @ FEED Dinner

Sofia Crokos Hosts FEED Supper

By Carlos Lacayo

auren Bush Lauren founded FEED in 2007 to provide meals for hungry children and families around the world. Celebrity event planner Sofia Crokos, who has planned the weddings of Robert Downey Jr. and Marc Anthony, hosted a FEED Supper at Sonnier & Castle's showroom to raise money for the organization’s programs. thefeedfoundation. org The evening honored Lauren’s mother, Sharon Bush, who works with her daughter on multiple philanthropic projects. Lauren said, "I'm a firm believer that a good meal begins in a messy kitchen, so before the first pot hits the stove, I reach for my favorite FEED + West Elm Apron. Each piece of this collection provides meals to America." westelm.com Crokos designed a colorful table and a Brazilian menu that included Vegetarian Brazilian Fried Rice and Arroz de Pato. Among the guests were RedBliss Design's Christine Traulich, Russ Sonnier, Cassandra Seidenfeld and Belle Fleur's Meredith Waga-Perez, who created the floral arrangements. Over the last 16 years, Sofia has become one of the international sets' go-to planners for high-end events in New York, the Hamptons and Europe. She has a formidable list of socialites, business leaders and celebrities as clients including hedge fund mogul Daniel Loeb, designer Betsy Johnson, Ann and Andrew Tisch, and NBA star Landry Fields. Entertaining guests was a tradition in Sofia Crokos’ family. During her parents’ social gatherings, Sofia was tasked with perfecting the finer details of their events. Over time Sofia has never lost sight of why she first got into the event planning business stating, “It’s always about creating magical moments and stories for my clients.” Sofia was “thrown right into the fire” with no formal training before she planned her first nuptials. She created a beautiful tented wedding before

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even knowing what a “tented wedding” entailed. This wife and event stylist is a great listener and utilizes this talent to familiarize herself with her clients' dreams. “Weddings are something that all women believe is once or maybe twice in a lifetime,” laughs Crokos. “It’s become something VERY personal and emotional." Sofia doesn’t look at her events as just parties; rather, they become something new in the lives of her clients. Although Sofia has the capability to plan a wide variety of events from charitable galas to movie premieres to product launches, weddings are the foundation of Sofia’s business. “Weddings are my bread and butter,” Crokos proclaims, “but every event is a celebration so they are all important me.” “I think about the future but I don’t stress about it anymore,” says the event planner, when asked about her future plans. Her main objective is to keep creating timeless moments for her clients. She also plans to publish her first book, which will be an entertainment book shot around the world. “I believe I’m blessed because I tend to attract really good clients,” Sofia admits. “They have the same energy as me.” When asked about lessons she’s learned through event planning, Crokos says, “You’re only as good as your last job. Stay grounded, real and humble, and always put your best foot forward.” Sofia has already implemented these rules in all aspects of her own life as she continues to grow her business into the global powerhouse it’s destined to be.

sofiacrokos.com

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FUNK FILHARMONIK A Great Sound for Everyone

By Jeff Krasner

or the past 29 years, Funk Filharmonik’s big, fat, fiery horn sound and chunky tight rhythmic vibe has become a magnet for musicians and music lovers of all stripes. Attracting 3 generations of fans, from jazz lovers to rockin’ bikers, from students to teachers, from youngsters and hipsters to oldsters. Fans of funk, soul, r & b to latin listeners, dancers, including some of the most well know musicians in the nymetropolitan area. Collectively and individually, members of F.F. have recorded and continue to perform with the icons of popular music, including: Paul McCartney, Ray Charles, Billy Joel, Bruce Springsteen, Paul Simon, Celine Dion, Stevie Wonder, Tower of Power, Diana Ross, Janet Jackson, the original Blues Brothers band, Aretha Franklin, John Mayer, Bootsy Collins, Steve Cropper, Shaggy, The Winans, Mariah Carey, The Allman Brothers, Daryl Hall, John Oates, Eddie Floyd, Huey Lewis, Michael Bolton, Queen Latifah, as well as jazz and latin giants including Tito Puente, Willie Colon, Marc Anthony, Freddie Hubbard, Jonathan Butler, Lionel Hampton, Jennifer Lopez, The Brecker Brothers. These lists go on and on. F.F.’s talents have added to countless TV and Broadway shows, movie soundtracks, commercial jingles. At any given moment, these guys might be off performing as a band, as a horn section, or a rhythm section or as individual players in the far corners of the world playing in such diverse settings as presidential inaugurations, Midnight Sun Jazz Festival in

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Sweden, spiritual drum and dance ceremonies in Ghana, West Africa or concerts and performance/teaching clinics. Funk Filharmonik prides itself in the numerous benefits they and their loyal following of “funksters” have supported for humanitarian and environmental causes. The camaraderie, joy and sheer energy that exudes from the stage at every F.F. show is contagious. One never knows who is in the audience and may come up to sit in with the band. The band does, after all, F.F. features some of Long Island NY’s hottest and most in demand players including: Lee Finkelstein (Drums, Co-Founder) Ozzie Melendez (Trombone, Vocal, Co-Founder) Tom Bowes (Lead Vocal) John Scarpulla (Tenor Sax & Vocal) Jack Knight (Bass) Vinny Cinquemani (Trumpet & Vocal) Steve Finkelstein (Percussion) Ron Fox (Trumpet) Greg Schleich (Keyboards) Dave Lavender (Guitar) Chris Karlic (Baritone Sax) In association with JeffKrasnerProductions.com

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25A A NIGHT OF FILM SCREENINGS IN THE NYC CINEMA SCENE By Clara Morgan

Bleeker Street’s After Party for Trumbo Screening at Villagio on the Park with Cocktails by Manhattan Moonshine: Louis CK, Taylor Hackford ©Marion Curtis

Bleeker Street’s After Party for Trumbo Screening at Villagio on the Park with Cocktails by Manhattan Moonshine: Peggy Siegal, Helen Mirren, Bryan Cranston ©Marion Curtis

Bleeker Street’s After Party for Trumbo Screening at Villagio on the Park with Cocktails by Manhattan Moonshine: Dana Delaney, Tim Daly ©Marion Curtis

Bleeker Street’s After Party for Trumbo Screening at Villagio on the Park with Cocktails by Manhattan Moonshine: John McNamara, Diane Lane ©Marion Curtis

A MAMARAZZI® Breakfast and Talk Back Event with Jacqueline Bisset & Toni Collette: Denise Albert, Jacqueline Bisset, Melissa Musen Gerstein, Christopher Simon ©Fredy Mfuko/Mission101Productions.com 110 | 25A www.25Amagazine.com

A MAMARAZZI® Breakfast and Talk Back Event with Jacqueline Bisset & Toni Collette: Toni Collette ©Fredy Mfuko/Mission101Productions.com

Bleeker Street’s After Party for Trumbo Screening at Villagio on the Park with Cocktails by Manhattan Moonshine: Robert Wuhl, Michael Stuhlbarg ©Marion Curtis

Bleeker Street’s After Party for Trumbo Screening at Villagio on the Park with Cocktails by Manhattan Moonshine: Monica Levinson, Michael London, Shivani Rawat, Kevin Kelly Brown ©Marion Curtis

OMEGA Celebrated The Advance New York Screening of 007 “SPECTRE”: Stephen Urquhart, Naomie Harris ©Getty Images for OMEGA

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25A SAMUEL WAXMAN CANCER RESEARCH FOUNDATION CELEBRATED THE 18TH ANNUAL COLLABORATING FOR CURE GALA By Clara Morgan

Capt. Benny Blanco Fishing Flamingo Florida Bay and Everglades National Park

Fisherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Island Aqua Performance Crew Neck Southhold Khaki Board Short

An American Original.

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Dr. Oz Auctioneer at Harboring Hearts Benefit By Victoria R. Crosby | Photos by Andrew Werner

arboring Hearts was founded by two women whose lives had been affected by heart health issues. Co-founder Michelle Javian grew up in Brookville, Long Island, and was inspired to help create the organization in 2009, in honor of her father who died of heart disease in 2008 after a heart transplant. The other co-founder, Yuki Kotani is a survivor of congenital heart disease, and her father, who suffered from heart disease, was a successful recipient of a transplant. These two young women wanted to bring support to the families of heart patients and awareness to the public.

Ryan Serhant, Michelle Javian, Dr. Mehmet Oz

Ryan Melkonian, Hope Geier Smith

Craig R Smith, Allan Schwartz,Hiroo Takayama, Dr. Yoshifumi Naka

Jessica Melore, Yuki Kotani

Nikki M. James, Jacob Langfelder

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The 3rd annual charity event, which took place on World Heart Day, honored Ogden CAP Properties, LLC Co-Founder Constance Milstein and New York Presbyterian Hospital Surgical Director Dr. Hiroo Takayama for their tireless philanthropic work and support of heart patients and their families during their critical time of need. Bravo’s Million Dollar Listing star Ryan Serhant served as the night’s emcee and thanked the night’s honorees, the CJM Foundation and benefit chairs Abby Elbaum, Celeste Guth, Austin Hoffman, Joanna Milstein, Dr. Allan Schwartz and Dr. Craig Smith for their contributions to the cause. Dr. Mehmet Oz acted as the auctioneer, aiding in the charity raising over $400,000. harboringhearts.org.

Dr. Hiroo Takayama, Constance Milstein

Prince Philippos of Greece and Denmark, Maya Foldes, Michelle Javian, Ryan Serhant, Adam Foldes

Evelyn Vargas Saliche, Izabella Saliche, Dr. Mehmet Oz

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Celebrating sonja morgan & dr. christopher calapai's cover By Ryan Wilk | Photos by Paul Prince & Diana Pinck

5A's latest cover party featuring Sonja Morgan & Dr. Christopher Calapai was a huge success. All the drinks, food and music were top quality. Alcohol was provided by Manhattan Moonshine, Georgi Vodka, Caribaya Rum, Vintage Rockefeller Wine and Spirits Group which provided VSOP Cognac, a vintage 2004 Champagne and Empire Vodka.

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A Grand Opening

Ferguson Celebrates Their New Location in Greenvale By Ryan Wilk | Photos by Paul Prince

he grand opening of Ferguson bath and kitchen galleryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s new location in Greenvale, New York was an exciting 25A sponsored event. Everyone enjoyed the live music, cocktails and hors dâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;oeuvres provided by Elegant Affair Caterers. A big thanks to everyone who made this event happen.

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Glen Cove Boys & Girls Club Blue & White Bash

By Carla Hall D’Ambra | Photos by John-Paul Teutonico Photography Glen Cove Boys & Girls Club held their annual fund-raising dinner dance at Nassau Country Club on Saturday, November 7th. As a Vice President on the Board’s Executive Committee, I personally attest to the incredible love and generosity in the room that night. Our co-chairs Julie Zarou and Cindy Ketchum, along with committee members Kate Doerge, Kirsten Benjamin, Kelly Florio Kasouf and Rashmi Nelson threw a fabulous party. Our club children are blessed by the tireless efforts and tremendous love of these beautiful women.

Auctioneer, CK Sweet

Herb Smith, GCBGC Vice President & Board Member

Oliver & Joanna Wreidt, Melissa & Stephen Meister

Anthony Carillo, Frank D’Ambra, Philip Colletta, Harry Adamo

Deborah Brisbane, Board President, Glen Cove Boys & Girls Club

Carla Hall D’Ambra, GCBGC Vice President & Board Member; Franca Trunzo, GCBGC Executive Director; Melissa Rhodes, Boys & Girls Club of America

Lisa Adamo, Teresa Carillo, Lisa Colletta, Carla Hall D’Ambra

Franca Trunzo, GCBGC Executive Director with Committee Members Kelly Florio Kasouf, Kirsten Benjamin, Julie Zarou, Cindy Ketchum, Kate Doerge

Andrew & Courtney Geisel

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