25A magazine September 2013 by Jason Feinberg

Gold Coast Luxury Magazine

September 2013

25A AVIVA DRESCHER

At Home in the Hamptons

Farnsworth

The Bizarre Saga of Winifred Bird

The Uncertain Fate of

Inisfada Serenity Found at

Casa Palop贸

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contents september 2013

Cover 68 The Real Aviva Drescher The New York native dishes about her life and why she changed her mind about doing reality TV Shot on location in Southampton by Johnny Schiano

Hamptons Events 22 For Charity and for Fun

La Palestra Children’s Benefit, Art Southampton, Ramy Brook East Hampton Scoop Opening

Splurge 26 Sag Harbor 22

Visiting Sag Harbor is going back in time, immersing yourself in old Americana and truly experiencing what the early inhabitants, the Metoac Algonquin Indians and later English settlers encountered.

Beauty 32 25A Trends

In keeping with its style, Estée Lauder is proud to unveil Modern Muse, a new fragrance inspired by the duality of today’s woman and designed to complement every aspect of her dynamic life

34 Erno Laszlo

Couture 36 La Fall-in-Fashionista

Photo shoot by Johnny Schiano featuring DKNY, Marlies Dekkers, Walter Steige, Chanel, Steve Madden, Katja Bergen, Prada, Madam Meme and more

42 Chaser 48 Fall Fashion Preview

Rich and Skinny, Ray Ban, Hudson Jeans, American Retro, Christophe Sauvat and more

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contents Design 56 An Equestrian Haven

september 2013

The pleasure of designing, building and landscaping an equestrian estate

Regimen 64 The Skin Gym Concept As Dr. Scott Wells sees an ever-increasing number of men in his practice having various cosmetic procedures, the area where the growth of male visits has skyrocketed is in non-surgical facial rejuvenation. For all you men and women visiting the gym to stay buff, here is the answer for keeping your jaw line as chiseled as your abs

66 Trendy Eating

While looking trendy on the outside with fall fashion, why not feel trendy on the inside as well? Although food crazes come and go, some current popular foods on the market have real health benefits that make them worth your time and money

Features 74 Farnsworth & the Bizarre Saga of Winifred Bird Farnsworth lay in ruins by the time I discovered it one day while riding through Oyster Bay on horseback. Abandoned since 1940, with all its furnishings still in it, the former Long Island showplace appeared to be melting in time like a Salvador Dali painting

80 The Uncertain Fate of Inisfada

Victoria Crosby takes 25A on a tour of this historic Gold Coast mansion while, ironically having been a religious retreat, its fate now lies in the hands of God

85 Singles Culture

Passion and Dating by Professor Love

Desig n R esouR ce shop wheR e the top DesigneRs shop

F u r nit ure • rugs • Accessories • int erior de s ig n

contents

september 2013

Jetset 86 Serenity Found Editor-In-Chief Jason Feinberg finds peace and quiet with spectacular volcanic views at Casa Palopó in Guatemala

94 Ever Wunder

Though summer may be coming to an end, the fun doesn’t have to! As the weather gets cooler, your social calendar will heat up with events all around Long Island

96 High Rolling at Foxwoods

Foxwoods Resort Casino recently celebrated its 20th anniversary and new and exciting changes will make your weekend or weekday getaway Anything But Ordinary

100 A Weekend Escape, Just Across the Sea Set along the Long Island Sound in historic Westbrook, Connecticut, Water’s Edge Resort & Spa is an oasis of rest and rejuvenation

Auto 102 Hot Pursuit The 2014 Lexus IS

Taste 104 Elegant Affairs The End of Summer Harvest

106 Chi Dining Lounge

102

Energizes with Asian and Italian Fare

108 Haiku Asian Bistro Shines like a diamond in Woodbury

Art Form 110 Doing It Right in Black and White John D. Herz always enjoyed drawing and doodling, yet he was not aware that he is an uncommonly gifted artist until his 58th birthday

112 Photographer Drew Doggett

Photographer Drew Doggett spent time on the isolated Sable Island, which lies off of the coast of Nova Scotia, to capture the rugged beauty of the terrain and the wild horses that have inhabited it for over two centuries

25A-List 114 Christopher Robbins’ A-List Events

108

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publisher’s note

25A has become Long Island’s fastest growing magazine with its popularity and new advertisers in each issue. What a great feeling to hear so many people compliment our content and aesthetics! I have the greatest staff and they are like family. They work so hard, yet they make it seem easy and it’s clear they are all passionate about what they do. Editor-in-Chief Jason Feinberg is always hard at work putting it all together, doing the important and exhausting job of coordinating each issue. Art Director Brooke Morgan has an amazing ability to create a true high-end layout with her exquisite talent at such a young age. We also have several talented photographers that make 25A come to life with their vision. So I say a big thank you to all of my staff, writers, photographers, publicists and everyone else who help make 25A what it is. As always, I remind you that this magazine was created for you, our readers, who live, work and play here. Don’t be surprised if you catch a glimpse of yourself in 25A! Today we begin another adventure. We are now working on producing a television show based on the contents of 25A magazine, which we are planning to launch this fall. You’ll see your hometown and other parts of Long Island come to life in the light they deserve to be seen. We say goodbye to summer and welcome autumn, certainly one of my favorite times of the year. I think this season brings families closer together after what feels like a very busy summer. I can’t wait to take my daughters apple and pumpkin picking! Please enjoy this issue of 25A magazine as much as we enjoyed creating it for you.

Chase Backer Publisher

25A

Long Island’s Gold Coast Luxury Magazine

Publisher Editor-In-Chief Art Director Office Manager Copy Editor Director of Strategic Marketing Director of Financial Marketing Features Editor Society Editor Editor-at-Large Fitness Editor Nutrition Editor Contributing Health Editor Features Writer Arts and Travel Writer Food Writer Gold Coast Writer Contributors

Contributing Photographers

Chase Backer Jason Feinberg Brooke Morgan Lori Biddiscombe Carla Santella Prof. Jack Mandel Georgia Gerosaus Victoria Caruso Christopher Robbins Gwen Wunderlich Pam Polestino Lindsay Brustein Rosen, M.S., R.D. Scott B. Wells, M.D. Victoria Crosby Diana Pinck Venus Quintana Monica Randall Dr. Gerald Acker, M.D., Paul Anthony, Melissa Argueta, Andrea Correale, Amy Fisher, Shane Fonner, Natalie Gaebelein, Cori Goldfarb, Olivia Katz, Jane Lerman, Kelly O’Malley Mattone, M.D., Aline Marie, Alyssa Nightingale, Ilena Ryan, Iris Weiner Patrick McMullan Paul Prince, Johnny Schiano, Paul Gerben, Kat Rabbit, Jennifer Thomas, Van Cushny, Clifton Parker

Contributing Photo/Videographer

Benno Klandt

Contributing Illustrator

Robert Bergin

Advertising Account Reps

Trish Cope, Paul Anthony, Bonnie Goldstein, Couture Marketing advertising@couturemarketing.com

Contact: 1057 Jericho Rd East Norwich, NY 11732 516.864.2525 (f) 516.399.2444 www.25Amagazine.com facebook/25amagazine twitter/25amagazine Writers, Models, Musicians and Photographers please inquire © 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.

S A n d S P o i n t S h o P - 1 5 M A i n S t r e e t - P o r t WA S h i n g t o n , n Y - 5 1 6 7 6 7 2 9 7 0

hamptons

La Palestra Photos By Olivia Katz On Saturday Aug. 3, East Hampton Studio played host to La Palestra Kids Benefit. La Palestra aims to promote healthy living and to improve the quality of childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s lives and the lives of their families through integrative health classes. The event combined fun daytime family activities, lunch catered by Carlyle on the Green, dinner and a benefit concert hosted by actor Michael McGlone and featuring special performances by Counting Crows lead singer Adam Duritz and the acclaimed inspirational, six-time Grammy Award-winning R&B and gospel vocalist Bebe Winans and the Ray Chew Live Band from American Idol. The La Palestra Kids host committee is made of Howard and Beth Stern, Liam Neeson, Frances McDormand, Olivia Culpo, Kelly Klein, Patty Smyth, Noah Emmerich, Michael McGlone, John McEnroe, James Marshall, Tom Sachs and Sarah Hoover, Randy and Melani Nardone, Elettra Wiedemann and Joel Coen.

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art southampton Visitor, artist Gregory de la Haba, Kate Murphy and Kate Shanley

Melanie Wambold and Greg Dâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Elia

Katherine and Gary Andreassen

VIP Opening of Art Southampton By Diana Pinck Pamela Cohen, Tony and Ruth Baum, Nick Korniloff

On July 25 the art-loving high society flocked to the VIP opening of the second Art Southampton. More than 4,200 collectors, artists, art advisors, socialites and supporters of Southampton Hospital attended the fabulous event during the course of the evening. The 100,000-square-foot luxury pavilion accommodated the champagnesipping visitors comfortably. More than 90 galleries from the Americas and 12 other countries exhibited a kaleidoscope of some of the best art of the 20th and 21st centuries. With all the hellos and the running into friends from the art world, this art lover had to go back for more on Sunday. It was clear by the end of the weekend that Art Southampton was a huge success on all levels. I canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t wait for next year!

Brett McMicking, Ann Van Ness, Michael Hal

Sally and Dominic Taglialatella and Lee Fryd

Jeff Bragman, Lutz Rath

Dorothy Frankel, Susan Bradfield

Michael Shaheen, Maryann Horwath

Fine Art Consultant Michele Witmer

Susan Madonia and Henry Koehler

Jean Shafiroff and artist Ike Ude

September 2013 | 23

East hampton

Ramy Brook East Hampton Scoop By Curtis Kelly Scoop Beach in East Hampton threw a cocktail party to celebrate designer Ramy Sharp’s cover-up line, Ramy Brook Beach. The chic, ready-to-wear collection has the perfect summer pieces that transition effortlessly into the early fall. Guests shopped the Ramy Brook collection while enjoying champagne and hors d’oeuvres. Some notables that attended the soiree were Rosanna Scotto, co-anchor of Fox 5’s Good Day New York; Mark Mullet, television and media agent at William Morris Endeavor Entertainment; interior designer Julie Hillman; and celebrity psychotherapist Dr. Robi Ludwig.

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splurge

25A

sag harbor

a whale of a tale and pure americana Text and Photos by Paul Anthony

isiting Sag Harbor is going back in time, immersing yourself in old Americana and truly experiencing what the early inhabitants, the Metoac Algonquin Indians and later English settlers encountered. I have visited Sag Harbor throughout my years on Long Island but always driving in, parking and going to the yacht clubs, restaurants and shopping, all of which are amazing. This visit I decided to take pictures of points of interest while I walked and truly explored the town. As I started walking and taking pictures, I came upon a woman painting a sign at a quaint house. I introduced myself and, to my surprise, it turned out that the woman, Jean Held, is a fantastic tour guide. Three hours later (which seemed like five minutes), I had absorbed all the stories of the history of Sag Harbor. The historic house I had stumbled upon was the Anne Cooper Boyd House, the location of the Sag Harbor Historical Society and Museum. Anne Cooper Boyd was a local artist and the structure is one of the oldest houses in Sag Harbor, built in 1796. Mrs. Boyd had painted the walls of the house with beautiful images of Sag Harbor, along with several paintings on canvas. Jean loaded me up with brochures and 26 | 25A www.25Amagazine.com

pamphlets and I went on a self-guided tour of 43 amazing sites. I never realized how many Revolutionary War heroes were from Sag Harbor. If you have ever been to Boston and walked the Freedom Trail, you know what I experienced. Before I start the tour, a little background on Sag Harbor. A village of only two square miles, three-fifths is in Southampton and two-fifths in East Hampton. Sag Harbor’s name is derived from a crop raised by the Metoac Algonquin Indians, the first inhabitants of Sag Harbor. The tuber was called sagabon. Sag Harbor, or as the early English settlers called it, Great Meadows, was settled around 1704. The first use of the town’s name is recorded as 1730. From 1750 to 1850, Sag Harbor was a thriving whaling port and artists’ colony. Whale oil was so precious and in such demand that more than 60 whaling ships came in and out of port. With the discovery of gold in California and petroleum in Titusville, Pennsylvania, the demand for whale oil dropped off significantly and Sag Harbor went through hard times. But during the boom of the whaling industry, the wealthy families had built Egyptian-style homes, churches and libraries, adding a great variety of architectural styles throughout the town.

captured British officers in their beds at James Howell’s Inn, known today as The American Hotel, and sunk the British fleet in the harbor to free the residents of Sag Harbor. During World War I, the E.W. Bliss Company tested torpedoes in the harbor a half-mile north of the village. Thomas Edison observed the tests. The torpedoes, said the company, did not have live warheads on them. But residents at that time disagreed. Occasionally divers still find warheads on the bay floor, but with no live warheads, of course! Okay, back to the tour. Of the 43 historic sites, I’ll focus on a few and then head back to Main Street to visit some four-star restaurants, have a cocktail and a great meal, then visit the art galleries, antique stores and of course, shop at the many designer stores and boutiques. Let’s start at the Long Wharf.

Long Wharf Since 1771, Sag Harbor’s Long Wharf has been the town’s hub. The wharf was rebuilt and extended in 1821 for the whaling trade. Its prime location overlooking the harbor with yachts from around the world is breathtaking. In its heyday, whaling ships were lined up six deep, going out to sea as far as the Pacific, on voyages lasting from six months to as long as two years. The area was bustling with trade and local craftsmen and shops lined the nearby streets. When the whaling trade declined and three major fires, in 1817, 1845 and 1877 hit the town, all local commerce virtually disappeared.

ag Harbor’s reputation as an artists’ retreat is upheld by much of classic literature and painting. John Steinbeck, author of Of Mice and Men, among other novels, was a resident from 1955 until his death in 1968. In Moby Dick, Herman Melville made mention of Sag Harbor in several sections and local historian and author Dorthy Zaykowski wrote a loving history of her hometown called Sag Harbor: The Story of an American Beauty. Arguably the most prolific local artist is C. Hjalmar Amundsen, better known as Cappy. His artwork depicting the life of the whaler is second to none and a must-see. The list goes on and on. I learned that Sag Harbor has many ‘firsts’ in its history: it was the first certified port in New York (commissioned by President George Washington) and home to New York’s first firehouse and Long Island’s first newspaper. It was also the first village east of Brooklyn to have gaslights. During the American Revolutionary War, Colonel Return Jonathan Meigs attacked a British garrison on a hill in Sag Harbor, the Old Burying Ground next to the Old Whaler’s Church. Colonel Meigs and his men September 2013 | 27

splurge

25A

sag harbor

a whale of a tale and pure americana Whaling Museum This beautiful Greek-fronted temple-inspired mansion was originally purchased from the wealthy whaling family of Benjamin Hunting II and sold to Captain Sybil Douglas, creating a showpiece of the successful fortunes of the whaling trade. It is well noted in local writings that the mansion is “a monument to the self confidence of the successful whaler.” It later became the home of Mrs. Russell Sage, a local resident and philanthropist keen on keeping the history of the great whaling industry of Sag Harbor alive. In 1936, it was deeded to the Historical Society as the Whaling Museum. The massive temple front portico and fluted Corinthian columns are framed with two large whalebones. Housed in the museum are an array of whaling artifacts and paraphernalia including a whaling boat in the front yard. I had the pleasure to meet Logan, a very knowledgeable, enthusiastic and patient tour guide who enlightened me on the critical history of the whaling industry.

Old Whaler’s Church Located next to the Old Burying Ground, the church was built as a monument to the town’s whaling prosperity. The exterior is the best example of Egyptian revival style in the U.S. today. Originally the church

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was topped with a 185-foot steeple, visible as a beacon to ships rounding Montauk Point as a welcoming sign. The Great Hurricane of 1938, also known as The Long Island Express, lifted the entire steeple intact and it landed in the Old Burying Ground next door. It was never rebuilt. The Meigs Monument is to honor Colonel Meigs and his Patriots with capturing the British, destroying their ships and freeing the town of Sag Harbor. Some say that this victory eventually led to the victory for the Battle of Long Island. After the walking tour, I’m ready for lunch at The American Hotel. Built in 1846 at the height of the whaling industry, the word quaint does not do the establishment justice. Start off with a chilled Apple Martini, choose the Gardner’s Bay Clams on the Half-Shell as an appetizer, and for the main course, I suggest the Grilled Shrimps and Avocado Salad. After that amazing lunch, it’s off to window shop at the great designer stores, boutiques, art galleries, antique stores and of course, a multitude of yacht clubs. Stop in at D.J. Hart and say hi to its owner Dee. Dee’s location is one of the oldest stores in the town and has a diverse array of jewelry, clothing and accessories. There are several boutiques and designer shops, such as Breezin’ Up, Illusions, Sean, Collette, Flying Point Surf Boutique and Calypso St. Barth. Great art galleries can be found throughout the town: Richard J. Demato Fine Arts Gallery

featuring works from local artist Charles Waller; Monika Olko Gallery; The Christy’s Art Center and Greening Gallery are just a few. Some of the many antique shops include Sage Street Antiques, Bloom, JED, Christy’s A&D Warehouse, MONC XIII … and don’t forget Fishers Home Furnishings to complete your household needs.

the unique names of the boats: Blind Date, Second Date, Intuition, Persuasion, Coumotion, Joan’s Beach, Andrea, Princess, To Life, and one of my favorites, Ali Baba. Walk the yacht clubs yourself and try it; it’s a lot of fun.

The American Hotel Let’s take a quick break for a cocktail at the world-renowned B. Smith’s Restaurant overlooking the harbor. Sip on a Bay Breeze while waiting for a great sunset. Walk the Long Wharf and admire the hundreds of beautiful yachts before stopping to have a homemade waffle cone with your favorite ice cream flavor at Big Olaf’s Ice Cream in the Long Wharf Promenade. After an exciting day on the town, when it’s time for a great dinner, Sag Harbor has an array of fine dining: Muse Restaurant, Il Cappuccino, The American Hotel, B. Smith’s, Tutto Il Giorno, Sage, Madison & Main, Zen and Cuddy, to name just a few. We chose Madison & Main and recommend you do the same. Executive Chef and coowner Eric Miller and partner Michael Gluckman will treat you as family for a mouthwatering meal in a lively atmosphere. Sit back and enjoy a Fresh Watermelon Martini, the Crab-stuffed Top Neck Clam appetizer and round the meal off with the Pan-seared local Fillet of Sole. If you have room for dessert Michael’s Cookie Monster Sundae, a fresh baked chocolate chip cookie, vanilla gelato and homemade chocolate syrup will do the trick. If you are not ready to leave, stay at one of the many hotels that the town has to offer. Dance the night away at Zen or see a show at The Bay Street Theater. Sag Harbor is truly a must-see destination. From the history-filled past to the bustling town that it is today, it has something for everyone. I especially enjoyed walking by the yacht clubs where I was struck by

Built in 1846, The American Hotel is one of the most elegant hotels and restaurants in the United States. You can feel its rich history from the boom days of the whaling industry to the Revolutionary period through today. The hotel has eight double rooms, all uniquely furnished with Empire and early Victorian antiques. The restaurant has four separate and unique candle-lit, silver-laden dining rooms, the elegant Main Dining Room, the Bar Room, the Victorian Drew Room with prints of Lincoln and Washington, and the Atrium and Garden Room. All the rooms create the mood for a romantic night of dining. The wine cellar boasts over 2,500 selections with over 30,000 bottles. Let Executive Chef Jonathan Parker create his inventive “American-French” dishes for you. The menus change with the seasons and use exciting flavors from France, Italy, America and Asia. Dine at the restaurant for lunch or dinner and try one of their delicious desserts. For lunch, start with the Bison Carpaccio with shaved Parmesan, than try the simply grilled Chicken Paillard with lemon and olive oil. For dinner, start off with the Lobster Bisque, then try the grilled Scottish Salmon Sauce Moutarde. Save room for one of their many mouthwatering desserts. Try the Bananas Foster: bananas, puff pastry, vanilla ice cream, caramelized sugar, crème de cacao and dark rum. No matter what choice you make for dining or lodging, The American Hotel is second to none.

September 2013 | 29

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sag harbor

a whale of a tale and pure americana Madison & Main Madison & Main is the new hot spot in Sag Harbor. Eric Miller, coowner and Executive Chef and partner Michael Gluckman both have impressive resumes and long experience in the restaurant industry. They have transformed the space to give it the look and feel of a New York steak house: rich mahogany wood with authentic brick walls and a wellstocked bar. The front area opens up to a great view of bustling Main Street. There is also an outdoor covered seating area at the back of the restaurant. Come for brunch, lunch, dinner, cocktails and dessert. After a fantastic day of shopping and sightseeing, sit down for dinner. Start with a refreshing and thirst quenching Sag Harbor Triple Rum Punch Mojito to kick off the evening. For an appetizer, try the fresh Jumbo Lump Crab Cakes, Roasted Corn, Avocado and Tomato Salad. For the main course, there’s mouth-watering Montauk Tuna or Roasted, Sicilian-style Eggplant with garlic, pine nuts and balsamic glaze.

D.J. Hart Dee has one of the oldest stores in Sag Harbor. Opened in 1978, she has put together a large selection of sophisticated women’s clothing,

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accessories, unique one-of-a-kind jewelry, hats, scarves, sundresses, etc. The store is well maintained and the staff is most helpful. Great prices and an amazing array of merchandise. Words don’t do it justice. Stop in and be greeted by Dee and her helpful and courteous staff.

Calypso St. Barth Located on Main Street, this well-known boutique has sophisticated and fun women’s clothing from dressy to casual. Since launching the first store in 1992 in St. Barth, Calypso St. Barth has grown from a modest resort-wear boutique to an international chain of worldwide boutiques with designers creating an eclectic assortment with wide appeal. There’s always something for the discerning shopper: dresses, shirts, tops, knit tees, sweaters, skirts, pants, shorts, beachwear, shoes, accessories and fragrances. Be sure to check out their new arrivals.

Richard J. Demato Fine Arts Gallery I had the pleasure of meeting gallery owner Richard J. Demato through my friend, the very talented artist Charles Waller. Charles’ works are on display at the gallery. The two-story gallery is located at a prime location on Main Street, next to the famous Sag Harbor Theater. The gallery’s focus is to show works of emerging and mid-career artists and foster the careers of the artists through exposure to new and diverse

markets, both domestically and internationally. The artwork ranges from narrative figurative portraiture to American magic realism to mixed media and contemporary landscape. What makes this gallery truly unique is not only the great artwork and very talented artists that are part of the gallery but Richardâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s commitment to give back to several charities and the community. Gallery Director Eve Gianni Corio will assist you with any requests you may have. For additional information visit www.rjdgallery. com.

Monika Olko Gallery Located on Main Street, the Monika Olko Gallery is a young up-andcoming fine art gallery. Monika is a ball of energy, greeting visitors with a smile and always willing to answer any question one may have pertaining to the artwork on display and about the featured artists. The gallery features recognized artists but more importantly, it features promising local and international painters who are not afraid to push the boundaries of their artistic creativity by experimenting with unconventional materials and techniques. The Gallery Manager and Art Curator Waffa Faith Hallam will assist you with any questions you may have. Waffa is also the author of the memoir The Road From Morocco. For more information, visit www.monikaolkogallery.com. For further information pertaining to Sag Harbor, visit the website for the Sag Harbor Historical Society at www.sagharborhistoricalsociety.org or contact the Sag Harbor Chamber of Commerce at (631) 725-0011.

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25a trends

september 2013

estee lauder modern muse A modern muse is strong and confident, the heroine of her own life and an independent spirit who possesses a natural magnetism. She is memorable, a force of creative energy and a true inspiration to others. In keeping with such style, Estée Lauder is proud to unveil Modern Muse, a new fragrance inspired by the duality of today’s woman and designed to complement every aspect of her dynamic life. The fragrance combines and contrasts the lush, floral scent of jasmine and the woody, sensual scent of patchouli to captures the essence of a modern muse in an innovative ‘dual-impression’ structure. The result is a fragrance that will appeal to the inner muse in every modern woman. Modern Muse will be available at Estée Lauder counters nationwide, at www.esteelauder.com and at major airports beginning September 2013. Suggested retail: 3.4oz/100ml: $98; 1.7oz/50ml: $78; 1.0oz/30ml: $58.

smashbox fade to black From uptown to underground, black is back and cooler than ever. Smashbox Cosmetics presents Fade to Black, a limited-edition collection of pitch-perfect neutrals in polished metallic packaging with an ultra-luxe, violet-to-black gradient that can take you from light to night. The Fade to Black Collection includes the Fade to Black Eye Shadow Palette with nudes to blacks and mattes to shimmers ($45); Fade to Black Waterproof Shadow Liner in smoky hues of long-lasting shadow and liner in one to take your look from understated to rocker chic ($22) and Fade to Black Be Legendary Lipstick in to-die-for new shades of Smashbox’s bestselling lipstick that’s become a cult favorite ($19). Fade to Black will be available in August at Smashbox.com, Sephora, Sephora inside JCPenny, Ulta, Nordstrom, Beauty.com, and select Macy’s stores.

nails inc. autumn winter collection With British runway designer inspiration from Mulberry and Christopher Kane, Nails Inc. has created these highly pigmented and glossy new shades of the Autumn Winter Collection. The polishes are sold in a boxed collection of six mini shades and made for you to nail the season’s hottest trends. • Old Bond Street- electric violet • Regent Street- deep cerise • St. Martin’s Lane- glossy grape • Oxford Street- Rich Toffee • George Street- delicate mink • Kensington Place- iridescent nude Available at Sephora and Sephora.com in September, Price $25.

PETER THOMAS ROTH OILLESS OIL 100% PURIFIED SQUALENE Luxurious, moisturizing, lightweight skin softener helps improve the look of fine lines, wrinkles, elasticity and radiance. Oil-like without the oily after feel. Derived from sugarcane. For all skin types. Oil-like, but not an oil, this luxurious, silky skin softening moisturizer helps fortify the skin’s lipid barrier to improve the look of fine lines, wrinkles, elasticity, and radiance. Lightweight, odorless squalane mimics the naturally occurring squalene found in the body’s own lipid barrier. Rapidly absorbs into skin and does not create a surface barrier like an oil, allowing skin to breathe. Moisturizes and helps prevent water loss below skin. Skin is silky smooth, luxurious to the touch without leaving an oily or greasy after feel. Derived from farmed naturally-sourced sustainable sugar cane (not from sharks or olives). Preservative-free.

bond no.9 perfumista avenue As an anniversary gift, Bond No. 9 presents Perfumista Avenue! While most Bond No. 9 fragrances are gender-non-specific, Perfumista Avenue was formulated with a woman in mind – more specifically, a New York breed of woman: stunning, bold, sexy, fearless, a bit insouciant and dressed with style and pizzazz. Perfumista Avenue takes a rose fragrance (New York State’s official flower) and adds lush and succulent plum. The blend also contains honey, musk and earthy patchouli. The overall effect is high-grade intoxication. Perfumista Avenue will be available in September at Bond No. 9’s five New York stores (four in Manhattan and one in Sag Harbor), Saks Fifth Avenue, select Nordstrom stores, Harrods and online at bondno9.com. Price: 100ml, $270; 50ml, $190; body silk, $110; candle, $105; pocket spray, $95.

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beauty

25A Erno Laszlo N ew

Y ork

phormula 3-9 eye repair Key Ingredients Erno Laszlo’s 360degree Repair Complex includes ingredients to revitalize, regenerate, smooth, heal, tighten and improve skin tone, among other advantages. Ingredients include marula oil, tamanu oil, caffeine, raspberry stem cells, artichoke extract, pine extract and moisturizing ingredients kukui nut oil and sweet almond oil.

Features/Benefits • Repairs damage deep within the skin while protecting against further damage, working on several levels to counteract the loss of elasticity, dryness and deepening of wrinkles • Firms and lifts the delicate skin around the eyes • Brightens the appearance of dark circles and reduces inflammation and puffiness • Nourishes and intensely hydrates by bringing long-lasting moisture to the skin around the eyes • Diminishes the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles • Protects and combats the effects of harmful environmental factors The Institute, Erno Laszlo new spa in SOHO

Formulated to protect and repair the fragile and sensitive skin around the eye contour area, Phormula 3-9 Eye Repair preserves and firms this delicate skin while defending against environmental stressors. The luxurious gelcream cools on contact and dramatically improves hydration while restoring youthful elasticity and vibrancy of the skin. This repairing formula is equipped with a revolutionary 360degree Repair Complex, a blend of innovative actives with global action on youth genes, effectively extending cellular vitality and longevity. These actives boost ATP levels while protecting existing collagen from degradation and effectively targeting uneven skin tone to brighten and improve the look of dark circles. 34 | 25A www.25Amagazine.com

For Best Results In the morning and evening, apply delicately on a cleansed and toned eye contour area. Using the ring finger, apply from the outer corner of the ocular bone inward and up toward the brow bone. Whenever layering products, apply thin formulations before thick. For best results, use in synergy with the Phormula 3-9 range. Appropriate for all skin types. Phormula 3-9 Eye Repair will be available at The Erno Laszlo Institute in New York, at www.ernolaszlo.com and at Erno Laszlo counters at Nordstrom in September 2013. Suggested retail: $175 (.5 oz. glass jar)

Skin Brilliance

â&#x20AC;ŚFrom Lipstick to Lasers, Truth + Beauty offers advanced skin treatments, procedures and products that deliver age-defying results

COME DISCOVER YOUR TRUTH. To schedule an appointment: 516.625.7000 www.truthandbeautyspa.com 250 South Service Road Roslyn Heights, NY 11577

couture

25 A La FALL-in

Fashionista

| 25A www.25Amagazine.com

Dress by CHANEL @ Designer Resale. Shoes by STEVE MADDEN. Ring by KATJA BERGEN for A+C.

September 2013 | 37

couture

25A

D re s s b y L A N V I N @ Designer Resale. Necklace by MADAM MEME. Shoes by BETTYE MULLER @ Yvonne Miller Vintage.

| 25A www.25Amagazine.com

Pant suit by DKNY @ Designer Resale. Bra by MARLIES DEKKERS. S h o e s b y W A LT E R STEIGER @ Yvonne Miller Vintage.

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couture

25A

Dress @

Designer

PRADA Resale.

Necklace by MADAM MEME. Ring by URBAN BOULDER.

Coat

ALBERTA FERRETTI @ Designer Resale. Shoes by MANOLO BLAHNIK @ Yvonne Miller Vintage.

| 25A www.25Amagazine.com

September 2013 | 41

couture

25A

Bra, panties and robe by MARLIES DEKKERS.

| 25A www.25Amagazine.com

Photoshoot featuring Audra van Hees

Model Eline Marie in Roberto Cavalli provided by Marshâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s, Huntington NY. Hair and Makeup provided by Maximus Salon, Stylist Trish Cope.

September 2013 | 43

Chaser Fall 2013

Raised on rock and roll, Chaser is a contemporary clothing line dedicated to the evolution of style. Designed in Los Angeles, inspired by icons of generations past, the collection is consistently looking forward. Fit, fabrication, hand-feel and construction all reign supreme. Dressed up or dressed down, Chaser remains the authority on cool. Taking a nod from vintage and a page out of music history, the brand leans toward the direction of European taste-makers tempered with a casual modernity. Always experimenting with yarns and dyes, art meets fashion, for a look that is uniquely Chaser.

Antique Rose Velvet with Dip Dye with some styles dip dyed in ox blood - CW5582 - Velvet Slouchy Pant. Retails for $196.00 CW5617 - liquid jersey 100% siro modal oxblood, dirty rose, cotton, ash, offered also in black and white (not sampled) deep armhole muscle 44

Available at chaserbrand.com

(top) Aztec Embellishment Cotton Jersey Offered in Muslin & Black - CW5558 embellished maxi dress. Retails for $158.00. (bottom) Born in the USA (CHASER ORIGINAL) - Vintage Triblend Drape Back Tee - CWD107CHA621-Caper. Retails for $62.00

couture

25A

(top) Guatemalan Blanket SWEATERS Guatemalan Blanket SWEATERS - acrylic blend yarn - CW5599 open cardi. Retails for $147.00. (bottom) Guatemalan blanket SWEATERS guatemalan blanket SWEATERS - acrylic blend yarn - CW5600 kanga poncho. Retails for $128.00

| 25A www.25Amagazine.com

Chaser Fall 2013

Brocade Georgette - 100% viscose - CW5594 - brocade maxi dress. Retails for $172.00

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25A

Credits: Clothing: Shag Boutique (1370 Old Northern Blvd. Roslyn, NY. Owner Ann Corn) | Hair & Makeup: Salon Rock (1372 Old Northern Blvd. Roslyn, NY. Owners Rafael Zavurov and Gary Kaziyev) | Photographer: Benno Klandt

| 25A www.25Amagazine.com

Fall Preview When the hot summer sun begins to wane and the feel of fall is in the air, you know it’s time to begin shopping for the new season. There’s something about the warm colors and cozy materials of fall fashion that just gets you into the spirit to look your absolute best. Shag Boutique in Roslyn should be one of the first stores that come to mind when you are shopping to refresh your wardrobe. Shag has a unique sense of fashion and you can be sure you’ll always find a great selection of the hottest trends. Layering, leather, leopard prints and over-the-knee boots are some major fall fashion trends you should definitely plan to splurge on. Colors such as navy blue, deep reds and purples are going to be popping up everywhere as the leaves change, so make sure you find a way to stand out! Here’s an idea of what you may be seeing this fall. From the crazy prints and graphic tees to the fabulous leather jackets, what’s not to love about this season’s trends?

September 2013 | 49

Hippie Biker Chic

American Retro

couture

25A

(left) Chloe is wearing a silver leather jacket by American Retro ($1,050) and Hudson jeans with amazing studded back pockets ($245) (right) Jaime is wearing a Christiansen quilted leather jacket ($1,750), printed leggings by Hippie Chique ($160) and Old Gringo knee-high boots ($725)

| 25A www.25Amagazine.com

Beaded in Style

Rock & Roll Fringe

(left) Taylor is wearing a One Piece fringe tank ($75), Rich and Skinny blackwax jeans ($176) and adorable Rock and Candy sneakers by Zigi ($85) (right) Molly is wearing a Christophe Sauvat beaded dress $695

September 2013 | 51

Edgy Rocker Look

Leather Metallic

couture

25A

(left) Brooke is wearing Rich and Skinny jeans in blush ($209) and a chocolate washed leather jacket by Christiansen ($1,300) (right) Brooke is wearing a BuddistPunk studded Rolling Stones tee ($270), ripped jeans by Genetic Denim ($220), amazing fringe boots by Koolaburra ($290) and a Rosie Love denim jacket ($395) to finish off the edgy rocker look.

| 25A www.25Amagazine.com

September 2013 | 53

M a n h at ta n

B r o o k ly n

Queens

long Island

the haMptons

| the north Fork

rIverdale

Westchester/putnaM

FlorIda

sands Point | $6,386,000 The owners of this spectacular home had one singular goal: to create the ultimate lifestyle retreat for their family and friends. 6 Bedrooms, 6.55 baths, Clive Christian bespoke chef’s kitchen, Bikram yoga studio, sound-proof movie theater with surround sound, all on 2 magnificently landscaped acres with exquisite new pool with outdoor fireplace, 4-season pool house, Har-tru tennis court, fully equipped gym. 3-car garage converts to indoor basketball court on a whim. No stone unturned, no detail overlooked. Web# 2589966. david Mongiardo & Maggie Keats 516.944.2879

Gold Coast EstatE

iMPECCaBlE attEntion to dEtail

WatERfRont EsCaPE

Brookville | $7,388,000 | Restored gated 25-room brick manor home, ballroom, banquet dining room on 7.3 acres with formal gardens, pool and pool house, par 3 golf hole, Jericho School District. Web# 2592088. Mollie Grossman, lic. assoc. RE Broker 516.629.2221

northport | Architectural Digest Waterfront Compound includes main house and 2 guest cottages. In-ground heated bayside pool & full sports court on 150 ft of pristine sandy beach on a 1.77 lot. Web# 2589933. Jyll Kata & Risa Ziegler 516.330.2321 | 516.457.4282

sands Point | $4,995,000 | Magnificent sunset and Manhattan skyline views, Contemporary home with Gunite pool and tennis court, 4 bedrooms, 5 baths. Web# 2554557. angela dooley & nicholas Colombos 516.315.7781 917.453.9333

EntERtainERs dREaM HousE

WintER WatERviEWs

HaMPtons altERnativE

sands Point | $4,995,000 | This grand 7,500 sf Colonial is 8 years young, it boasts a gourmet kitchen, 7 bedrooms, 6 baths, Guinite pool, movie theater, professional gym and much more. Web# 2564965. angela dooley & nicholas Colombos 516.315.7781 | 917.453.9333

sands Point | $3,250,000 | Gracefully designed, grandly proportioned, mint 5 bedroom Colonial offering every imaginable luxury for today’s discerning buyer. Picture perfect acre. Pool and spa.. Web# 2583263. Jill Berman 516.375.9101

upper Brookville | $2,100,000 | Come home to this meticulously maintained residence. 4-Bedroom Ranch has expansive living and entertaining areas. Complimented by pool and cabana. Truly sophisticated elegance. Web# 2598675. Maureen Polye 646.239.0769

© 2013 Douglas Elliman Real Estate. All material presented herein is intended for information purposes only. While, this information is believed to be correct, it is represented subject to errors, omissions, changes or withdrawal without notice. All property information, including, but not limited to square footage, room count, number of bedrooms and the school district in property listings are deemed reliable, but should be verified by your own attorney, architect or zoning expert. Equal Housing Opportunity.

ExCEEds youR EvERy ExPECtation

ÂŠ 2013. Douglas Elliman Real Estate.

Equal Housing Opportunity.

douglas elliman leads tHe way witH one weBsite and every single listing.

Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll find the most current and complete set of the finest real estate listings in just one place: AskElliman.com. Winner of 9 industry awards, our website invites you inside thousands of available homes throughout New York City, Long Island, The Hamptons/North Fork, Westchester, and South Florida. An unparalleled force in the industry, Douglas Elliman now reaches even further, allowing you to shop any of these markets from one incredibly versatile website. Leverage the power behind the most powerful name in real estate today.

design

25A By Nancy Patterson

Photos By Sargent Architectural Photography

An Equestrian Haven

he bond between man and horse is a deep, natural and passionate one. Throughout history, this relationship has been well documented in art and literature. The Greeks and Romans celebrated their battle-worthy steeds as heroes, both in sculpture and on the friezes of their temples and palaces. The tales of Alexander the Great and his warhorse, Bucephalus, are legendary. 56 | 25A www.25Amagazine.com

The Crusades were conducted on horseback and even Catherine the Great of Russiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s equine exploits were infamous. Today, the care and maintenance of these cherished animals is no less involved. Kean Development Company, a luxury residential builder, has had the pleasure of designing, building and landscaping equestrian estates

and developing stables, arenas and paddocks as well. At the vanguard of primary and secondary luxury home building, Kean Development understands the vital importance of large estate acquisition and planning. As priceless investments, the rearing, care and maintenance of horses, whether thoroughbreds or polo ponies, as well as their accouterments, is an industry unto itself. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Our clients look

“Our clients look to us to create aesthetic, functional, well-executed structures for every aspect of their lives, especially recreational venues. The ability to build multiple types of spaces adds to my team’s talent and impressive inventory...” -CEO John C. Kean to us to create aesthetic, functional, wellexecuted structures for every aspect of their lives, especially recreational venues. The ability to build multiple types of spaces adds to my team’s talent and impressive inventory,” said CEO John C. Kean. The location of this particular estate was very important to the client. The intention was to create a beautiful, equestrian compound. The client’s desire was expressed through the definition of dressage, which contoured the stable’s stunning design … an equine retreat of sorts. Dressage is simply the training of horses. The dressage rider and his horse are said to emulate a sophisticated dance. The artistry performed and communicated between animal and rider is an intuitive, physical link of endurance, balance, flexibility and responsiveness. A wordless set of cues dictates elegance and control through collected and extended paces and intricate, complicated movements. The health and wellbeing of both rider and mount are paramount to the success of training. The architectural concept was therefore elementary. The 22-acre rolling site is private and perfectly conducive to a sprawling, hilltop manor and arena and stable below, an exquisite Kean project. Bridle paths dot the surrounding woodland area, granting riders endless local adventures. The mile-long, linden tree-lined drive is a superb invitation to the manor. Ten thousand square feet in its entirety, the equine complex comprises numerous stalls, tack and trophy room, laundry, kitchenette, heated and vented blanket room, full bath, office, threebay garage and impressive 180’ x 90’ indoor September 2013 | 57

design

25A

dressage arena. Five acres of verdant, black fence-lined paddocks radiate off the stable and outdoor dressage ring. An imaginative Kean design, with a shingle roof topped with charming electronically controlled cupolas, this state-of-the-art equine facility is as beautiful as it is functional. The stalls are floored in rubber and dressed in oak, steel and solid brass. Westchester stone tailors the walls that are finished with crown molding and handsome lighting. The stable’s 30-foot ceiling is adorned with stunning yellow pine trusses. Each 12’x12’ stall has video surveillance and automatic water. A wash station and vet stall preface the indoor ring. Mirrored and heated, huge fans hang from the ceiling of the ring above the automatically irrigated synthetic sand, created for sure equine footing. The tack room is a distinctive trove of color and texture. Floored in slate, the tongue and groove walls are oak and the ceiling is a unique, high-gloss painted wood. This dramatic ceiling mosaic represents Belgian racing colors, an image from the fabled Louvranges Estate, owned by Madame de Pauw, a wealthy art collector and dressage competitor. Saddles and bridles hang from the walls like glossy leather trinkets opposite the built-in window seat and lovely trophy cabinets, a Kean specialty. With an artful balance of form and function, Kean Development has deftly accommodated the clients … especially the four-legged clients, who are clearly immensely comfortable! Visit www.keandevelopment.com for more information on the Kean Development Company.

Saddles and bridles hang from the walls like glossy leather trinkets opposite the built-in window seat and lovely trophy cabinets, a Kean specialty. 58 | 25A www.25Amagazine.com

LifeRocks

positive energy. prosperity. good fortune.

Ancient Gongshi or “ Spirit Stones” (Scholar Rocks) are shaped and colored through the elemental forces of earth, wind and water. Each one is uniquely treasured not only for its aesthetic characteristics but also for the meditative and healing energy it generates. Each of these stones from China are hand selected and must meet exacting criterion for shape, texture, patterns, color and beauty before becoming a Liferock. Now these naturally-sculptured stones are available as Liferocks in the United States to bring beauty and tranquility to your landscaped environment. Each Liferock is individually named, numbered and recorded in our Liferock data base. You will receive a certificate of authenticity upon purchase for resale as investment art. Your Liferock is shipped safely to your location and mounted on site by our expert architects.

liferocksonline.com | 516.750.9702

design

25A

A Hamptons Home Comes to Life

ucked away in Sagaponack in the town of Southampton is the latest creation of Jerry Lubliner, M.D. and Christopher Burnside â&#x20AC;&#x201C; their 7,000-square-foot Hamptons classic home, replete with exquisite ocean views. The owners were kind enough to invite 25A to tour the house, which is nothing less then gorgeous.

The home is perfect for entertaining, both indoors and out. Outside there is a full kitchen with fireplace, a large swimming pool with Jacuzzi, a pool cabana and a sunken tennis court overlooking a 28-acre preserve. Perfect for cocktails poolside on a summer afternoon! The interior boasts a large media room, sauna, gym and wine cellar. The gourmet kitchen can easily handle any chefâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s creation. With its eight bedrooms and ten bathrooms, there is plenty of space for guests. The home is conveniently laid out with wide hallways and staircases as well as an elevator that services each floor. Two distinctly striking features are the master closet with its recessed lighting and ample storage and the ocean views from the master bedroom terrace.

60 | 25A www.25Amagazine.com

Backyard view overlooking the pool and tennis court

Kitchen

Family Room and Eat in Kitchen

Outdoor Kitchen and Fireplace Staircase/ Entry

Master Suite Photography by Jason Feinberg

Wine Cellar

September 2013 | 61

Lloyd Harbor, NY – Rare Opportunity Own a Delano and Aldrich 1930 Country house with classic elegant design. CSH SD #2. MLS# 2591042. $2,595,000. Peggy Moriarty, LAB, 631.692.6770 ext.224, c.516.769.2843

Asharoken, NY – Waterfront with Beach SD #4. MLS# 2563095. $1,300,000. Nikki Sturges, LAB, 631.427.6600 ext.211 c.631.375.8557

Asharoken, NY – Waterfront with Beach SD #4. MLS# 2537816. $1,295,000. Nikki Sturges, LAB, 631.427.6600 ext.211 c.631.375.8557

Bayville, NY – Spectacular Waterfront SD #3. MLS# 2599580. $1,200,000. Maria Boccard, LAB, 631.427.6600 ext.361 c.631.834.5713

Bayville, NY SD #3. MLS# 2575589. $1,875,000. Eloise Halpern, LAB, 516.759.4800 ext.128 c.516.455.8187

Cold Spring Harbor, NY – Stunning CSH SD #2. MLS# 2581261. $2,695,000. Barbara Bentley-Nash, LAB, 631.692.6770 ext.211 c.516.697.1277

Dix Hills, NY SD# 5. MLS# 2598672. $1,190,000. Marilyn Fox, LAB, 516.922.9155 ext.129 c.516.532.1814

East Marion, NY – Turn Key SD #1. MLS# 2589104. $619,000. JoAnn Wind, LSP, 631.477.0013, c.631.764.3847

Glen Cove, NY – “On Golden Pond” SD #5. MLS# 2588112. $1,595,000. Kathy Borg, LAB, 516.759.4800 ext.104 c.516.457.9656

Old Brookville, NY Great Gatsby-style Manor house all redone, set on 2.26 bucolic acres. SD #1. MLS# 2569734. $2,995,000. Sandi Lefkowitz, LAB, 516.674.2000 ext.221, c.516.816.2461

Huntington Bay, NY – Custom Home SD #3. MLS# 2548863. $1,995,000. Lee Cunningham, LAB, 631.427.6600 ext.315 c.516.429.1180

Huntington Bay, NY – Waterfront SD #3. MLS# 2569793. $2,750,000. Maria Boccard, LAB, 631.427.6600 ext.361 c.631.834.5713

Huntington, NY – Village Oldie SD #3. $849,000. Bonnie Williamson, LAB 631.427.6600 ext.210, c.516.443.5958

Lloyd Harbor, NY – Center Hall Colonial CSH SD #2. MLS# 2578684. $1,395,000. Ruth Vago, LAB, 631.427.6600 ext.214 c.631.379.1679

Each office is independently owned and operated. We are pledged to provide equal opportunity for housing to any prospective customer or client, without regard to race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status or national origin.

danielgale.com

Oyster Bay Cove, NY – Fit for a Duke & Duchess Impeccable 7-bedroom, 5-bath Farm Ranch on 2 majestic acres. SD #2. MLS# 2582186. $1,599,999. June Iaverone, LAB, c.516.315.8454 Antoinette Fallacara, LSP, c.516.286.2556

Lloyd Harbor, NY – Mid-Century Modern CSH SD #2. MLS# 2590382. $1,700,000. Cathy Casalicchio, LAB, 631.427.6600 ext.222 c.631.678.89293

Lloyd Harbor, NY – Panoramic Waterfront CSH SD #2. MLS# 2590011. $6,749,000. Pamela W. Doyle, LAB, 631.692.6770 ext.213 c.631.988.1708

Manhasset, NY SD #6. MLS# 2579318. $2,690,000. Yvonne J. (Bonnie) Doran, LAB, 516.627.4440 ext.222, c.516.729.5663

Manhasset, NY – Gracewood SD #6. MLS# 2597326. $2,695,000. Rosalyn Meyer, LSP, 516.627.4440 ext.361 c.917.887.2687

Mill Neck, NY – Water Views SD #6. MLS# 2577531. $1,250,000. Robin Eger, LSP, 516.484.1800 ext.245 Marianne Gardner, LSP, 516.484.1800 ext.230

Muttontown, NY –Traditional Colonial SD #3. MLS# P1167180. $2,999,999. Linda Petralia, LAB, 516.677.0030 ext.226 c.516.659.0343

Northport, NY – Beach House SD #4. MLS# 2595520. $1,250,000. Bonnie Williamson, LAB 631.427.6600 ext.210 c.516.443.5958

Old Brookville, NY SD #1. MLS# 2582999. $1,595,000. Marilyn R. Jenney, LAB, 516.759.6822 ext.107 c.516.236.4278

Old Brookville, NY SD #1. MLS# 2600182. $1,228,000. Kathy Borg, LAB, 516.759.4800 ext.104 Ann Roberts, LAB, 516.759.4800 ext.164

Old Field, NY – Waterfront 3VSD #1. MLS# 2542355. $4,500,000. Miriam Ainbinder, LAB, 631.689.6980 ext.216 c.631.988.9200

Old Field, NY – Waterfront 3VSD #1. MLS# 2599886. $4,000,000. Miriam Ainbinder, LAB, 631.689.6980 ext.216 c.631.988.9200

Sands Point, NY – Waterfront, Dock SD #4. MLS# 2596910. $13,888,000. Yvonne J. (Bonnie) Doran, LAB, 516.627.4440 ext.222, c.516.729.5663

Sands Point, NY SD #4. MLS# 2565530. $2,495,000. Nava Mitnick, LAB, 516.883.2900 ext.103 c.516.510.3842

Sands Point, NY SD #4. MLS# 2590183. $4,390,000. Nava Mitnick, LAB, 516.883.2900 ext.103 c.516.510.3842

Sands Point, NY SD #4. MLS# 2600286. $3,700,000. Nava Mitnick, LAB, 516.883.2900 ext.103 c.516.510.3842

Shelter Island, NY – Primrose Cottage SD #1. MLS# 2556464. $2,900,000. Linda McCarthy, LSP, 631.749.1155 ext.202 c.631.745.2626

regimen

25A the skin gym

concept By Scott B. Wells, M.D.

For this issue, I thought it would be nice to introduce an age management concept that is as applicable to men as it is to women. While I see an ever-increasing number of men in my practice having various cosmetic procedures, the area where the growth of male visits has skyrocketed is in non-surgical facial rejuvenation. For all you men and women visiting the gym to stay buff, here is the answer for keeping your jaw line as chiseled as your abs.

Of all the positive feedback I receive from my regular health and beauty contributions to 25A magazine, more than half come from fellow gym members who regularly find me on a front row bike in spin class. I am there because I firmly believe that in order to stay feeling youthful and fit, a lifetime commitment to regular exercise is essential. Almost everyone else in the modern world knows this as well. The paradigm of nutrition and exercise being the mainstay of fitness has become quite well established. But here is the irony: the exact same paradigm applies to keeping our facial appearances youthful and ‘fit.’ I’d like to share with you, my readers, a concept we have been practicing in my skin clinics for almost a decade called ‘The Skin Gym.’ It is a regular program of exercise and nutrition for the skin that keeps the participants looking remarkably younger and more natural looking for decades. In my professional quest for preserving natural beauty, I have come to understand certain principles. Perhaps the most important of these, and one which I always stress, is that skin is a fabric. In youth, skin has the tight, elastic, supportive characteristics of Lycra. Those attractive 64 | 25A www.25Amagazine.com

firm and defined contours of a youthful face are due in large part to the shaping qualities inherent in this elasticity. With progressive aging, however, as the structural integrity of our skin’s ‘fabric’ diminishes, so too does its elastic and supportive qualities, leading to properties more like linen. The mantra of the fashion world pertains here - don’t wear linen if you don’t like wrinkles. In essence, from the point of view of our skin, the aging process is essentially the progressive change from Lycra to linen! Eventually we all begin to wear wrinkles. Slowing down and preventing this change is paramount in 21st century anti-aging technology. Enter my concept of the Skin Gym. Every bodybuilder knows that building muscle tissue requires eating correctly and exercising very regularly. When we exercise aggressively, we are actually injuring our tissues microscopically and that leads to mild inflammatory response (post-exercise soreness). That inflammatory response is necessary in activating the body’s healing mechanisms leading to newer, healthier and restored muscle and connective tissue. Proper nutrition accelerates the program by providing the building blocks for repair. Through a long-term regimen of nutrition and exercise, bodies can be made to be stronger, healthier and more fit, maintaining a younger appearance.

The exact same thing holds true for the skin, particularly facial skin. When we regularly exercise the skin using lasers and light-based devices, we are actually producing low level controlled stimulation to the skin structure. The skin responds with a mild, often unnoticeable, inflammatory reaction that sets the stage for a healing event. Healing is just the triggered natural repair process. When we cycle these events through the regular use of laser and other light energy devices, we can often repair the insidious damage of aging faster than it occurs. I call that ‘aging in reverse’ and it is a reality practiced every day in state-ofthe art laser clinics. As for the nutritional component of this equation, we know that more concentrated benefits can be delivered to the skin by topical application of medical grade skincare products than any other way.

lasers and energy devices, operated by highly skilled and experienced technicians, requires very sophisticated organization. A comprehensive ‘gym’ must provide many different lasers and other energy devices, such as ultrasonic or radiofrequency technology, to effectively ‘crosstrain’ skin. However, I know from practice for more than a decade, these Skin Gym concepts do work quite effectively to slow down and even reverse aging. As we like to say in our Skin Gym: Make Your Skin Fit! Plastic surgeon Scott Wells, M.D. has been located in the heart of Manhattan’s Upper East Side for nearly 20 years. He is seasoned in traditional plastic surgery as well as in the newest high-tech bio-restorative techniques. A leading authority in facial rejuvenation, Dr. Wells’ unique and knowledgeable approach to lasting beauty through a combination of surgical and non-surgical disciplines sets him

Once understood, the Skin Gym concept is rather simple and familiar. Delivering it well, however, requires a varied advanced degree of professional skill and equipment. The most up-to-date array of medical

apart in the field of aesthetic rejuvenation. Dr. Wells currently serves as medical director of Erno Laszlo, Inc. and the Park Avenue Plastic Surgery Center. He is available for consultation by private appointment. Visit www.scottwellsmd.com.

September 2013 | 65

regimen

25A Trendy Eating By Lindsay Brustein Rosen, MS, RD

1) Kale chips Kale is a leafy green vegetable that becomes a crispy snack when baked. Kale chips are low in calories, fat and sodium but high in vitamins and minerals, making them the perfect crunchy treat. It is best to make the kale chips yourself, adding just a little olive oil and some spices (like garlic powder or cayenne) before baking. Avoid pre-packaged varieties that are higher in fat and sodium.

2) Coconut water Coconut water is the clear liquid found inside young, green coconuts. It has a sweet and somewhat nutty taste. This Mother Nature’s sports drink has less sugar and less sodium than most sports drinks on the market. It is higher in potassium, calcium and chloride, making it better for rehydrating and replenishing the body’s energy levels after strenuous activity. Stick to the plain flavor and avoid those with added sugars or juices. 3) Fresh juices Juicing is all the rave. It is a great way to 66 | 25A www.25Amagazine.com

squeeze fruits and vegetables that you don’t typically consume into your diet. However, remember that if you are drinking juices in place of real food, you’ll fall short on a number of nutrients your body needs, namely fiber and protein. Still, juices can be a great morning meal or snack when made properly. Make green smoothies at home by blending creamy fruit (bananas, mango) with leafy greens (kale, spinach) plus water. 4) Almond butter Almond butter is a food paste, similar to peanut butter but made from almonds. Almond butter is a great alternative to peanut butter for those with peanut allergies. It contains significantly more fiber, calcium, potassium, iron and manganese than peanut butter with about half the saturated fat. When choosing an almond butter, select those that contain little to no added ingredients. 5) Chia seeds Cha-cha-cha-chia! Those tiny seeds from the 1980s Chia Pets are filled with vitamins, calcium (by weight, more than whole milk!) and dietary fiber. When chia seeds are exposed to water, they form a gel that expands in your belly, helping you to feel full, eat less and shed pounds. Ground chia seeds are virtually tasteless and can be added to baked goods, smoothies, yogurts, sauces, dips and more – without changing the flavors of the foods!

milk. This milk variety is suitable for vegans and vegetarians since it does not contain any animal products. In fact, this milk is extremely ‘allergy-friendly.’ Because almond milk does not contain any lactose, it is great for those who are lactose intolerant. Since almonds are rich in vitamins and minerals, almond milk doesn’t need to be fortified like some other milk varieties. It is very low in calories (about 40 calories per serving) and low in carbohydrates (only two grams per serving), so it is a great milk substitute for those watching their weight.

www.nutritionbybru.com Lindsay Brustein Rosen, MS, RD is a registered dietitian and the founder of Nutrition by Bru, a nutrition counseling and consulting practice in New York. She received a Master of Science in Nutrition and Dietetics from New York University, and has a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from the University

6) Almond milk Almond milk is a beverage made from ground almonds, often used as a substitute for dairy

of Pennsylvania. She is an active member of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, as well as the Greater New York Dietetic Association.

Skin Fitness By Pam Polestino

Over the past 20 years I have been surrounded by gym-goers that have many common goals. Whether it is weight loss, keeping muscles toned, feeling energetic or reducing stress, everyone wants to look and feel their best. Many years ago, gym fashions were not what they are today but Lululemon has changed the look of everything about gym fashion. Not only does Lulu look amazing and perform well but the fabrics they make their clothing with are excellent at keeping moisture away from our skin. So with everyone dressed and color-coded in their matching Lulus, working out to achieve their best body, I went in search of more knowledge on how our skin could stay as youthful and fit as our bodies, as well as be protected while we are vigorously sweating and exercising so hard. I was introduced through a friend to a woman named Dana Whalen. The first thing I said to her was, “What do you do to your skin? I need to know!” It turned out that Dana is the spa director at the Medical Spa of Dr. Brian Cohen in Great Neck, N.Y. A very chance meeting turned into destiny for me. The first thing Dana told me was that I could do all the fabulous medical-grade facials I wanted, use the best products money could buy – but if I was not ready to get my face out of the sun, my results would be far less than I would like. I had a few meetings with Dana to learn as much as I could so I could share information about skincare and working out with my clients. I discussed with Dana that with all the perspiration I was constantly dealing with, I needed her to teach me about ‘skin fitness.’ Before working out in the morning, Dana suggests washing the face and

applying a light, oil-free moisturizer. If you are taking your workout outdoors you must check that your moisturizer has an SPF of at least 30! Also, it is very important to wear a hat to help block the sun’s rays from your eye area, the most sensitive skin. Dana recommends not wearing makeup while working out. Wearing a sweatband and a ponytail will help keep the oils from your hair from falling onto your face, as well as help prevent any breakouts. As you sweat while training, never touch your face with your hands; always use a towel or a sweatband. Immediately following your workout, Dana suggests using a salicylic acid pad, or even a baby wipe, until you can get to correctly and completely cleanse your skin. Everyone has a different skin type, so Dana could not get personal with any other than my skin as we talked about hydrating, firming and rejuvenating. As for my lesson on products for keeping skin fit, I learned that products purchased through a medical doctor are completely different from those purchased at a cosmetic store. I had no idea of the differences until I started trying new products. Now that I am so interested in my skin fitness, I wear a tinted moisturizer with an SPF of 30; it has a bronzer that gives me a wonderful tan glow. I definitely see that a medical-grade facial can change the skin. After only one treatment you can see an unbelievable improvement! Pam Polestino is a certified fitness professional and lifestyle coach who also manages Group Fitness Programming for Equinox of Roslyn. pßpolestino@yahoo. com 516.403.4444

September 2013 | 67

celeb

25A The Real Aviva Drescher: More Than Just One of the ‘Housewives’

Long Sleeve Lace Gown by Carmen Marc Valvo Black Label $1275. Diamond Flower Earrings Van Cleef and Arpels (Aviva’s Own)

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Geelong Zip Cape in Burnt Orange by Slater Zorn $325. Cargo Pant and Ankle Boots (Aviva’s Own)

The NY Native Dishes About Her Life and Why She Changed Her Mind About Doing Reality TV By Victoria Caruso That all changed, however, when Drescher – an amputee – realized that she could use the show to her advantage. So, the 5’10” blond put on her best high heels and threw herself right into the midst of all the catfights and drama that comes with being one of the ‘Housewives.’ “My ultimate goal is to raise awareness for amputees and others with physical limitations or differences,” Drescher, who is the first and only native New Yorker on the show, said. “For a new amputee who is watching the show, seeing a married mother of four dancing around and living a normal life can make all the difference.” So how do her kids or, better yet, her husband – who once banned the show from the house – adjust to life now that they are a part of it? “My kids and my husband are unimpressed with my celebrity,” said Drescher, who admits catching her spouse asleep in front of the television even while she is on the screen. “Although we joke about being one of these cartoon characters on TV, he is completely supportive of it and recognizes the value of what I can do in this role.”

What do you do when you are asked to join the cast of a reality television show as popular as Bravo’s Real Housewives of New York City? Well, if you’re dedicated stay-at-home mom and philanthropist Aviva Drescher your initial response is a firm “No.” “I didn’t watch the show religiously but I would catch an episode from time to time and always thought it was such silliness. In fact, my husband caught me watching it a couple of times and banned it from being on in the house! Kind of ironic now, isn’t it?” laughed Drescher, who, when the New York installment of the Real Housewives franchise premiered its fifth season in June, was among its three new cast members. Real Housewives of New York City follows the busy lives of six driven and ambitious Manhattan women as they juggle demanding careers, motherhood and jam-packed social calendars. While the mother of four and wife of investment banker husband Reid Drescher fit the show’s criteria, she remained adamant against joining the cast.

Drescher has relied on a prosthetic leg most of her life after an accident at the age of six resulted in her having her left foot amputated at the ankle. Over the next 20 years she endured painful abrasions that constantly left her at risk for infection and, in 1996, elected for a belowthe-knee revisional amputation. It was, said Drescher, one of the best decisions of her life. “Until that point, my limitations stemmed more from the abrasions than from not having the foot. As a child, I never wore shorts or skirts that exposed my legs. I couldn’t wear heels and was very limited fashion-wise and I love fashion!” Although she was self-conscious, Drescher never let her prosthetic stand in her way. She played gym, served as captain of the volleyball team and even went skiing and bike riding but admits normal rights of passage such as dating, sleepovers, going to camp and even losing her virginity were more stressful as an amputee. “Those things are hard enough as a teenager and although I never complained they were 10 times harder for me,” she said. Perhaps that’s why Drescher has made helping others who have lost or who are facing the loss of a limb top on her ‘to do’ list. Over the years, she has dedicated her time and support to organizations such as the One Step Ahead Foundation, where she serves as national spokesperson, and the Challenged Athletes Foundation. Most recently, Drescher met with and shared her story with survivors of the Boston Marathon bombing. September 2013 | 69

celeb

25A

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September 2013 | 71

Tommy Wide Leg Pants by Dana-Maxx $450. Burgundy Cashmere Sweater by Brunello Cucinelli $2310. Hand Sculpted Bracelet with Shell Inlay by PONO by Joan Goodman $215.

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“I truly enjoy working one-on-one with people – whether it’s a bombing victim, a diabetic who lost a foot or a teenager who lost a limb due to bone cancer...Anything I can do to use my amputee status to help and let them know they will be okay, I will.” “I truly enjoy working one-on-one with people – whether it’s a bombing victim, a diabetic who lost a foot or a teenager who lost a limb due to bone cancer,” she said. “Anything I can do to use my amputee status to help and let them know they will be okay, I will.” And her philanthropic efforts aren’t limited to amputees and people with physical limitations. Drescher also serves on the board of Live4Life,

a non-profit organization dedicated to helping those affected by melanoma, and is also actively involved with actress Fran Drescher’s (her husband’s cousin) Cancer Schmanzer Movement and Trash Cancer organization, serving as spokesperson and board member, respectively. And, as an advocate for gay rights, Drescher was recently named national spokesperson for the Shineout Music Festival’s So Gay So What campaign. “As a child, I hid behind long pants and didn’t want others to know I was different and I guess that is why I have always felt a very strong connection to those who feel different and who may be hiding that difference,” Drescher said. “I truly believe people who are different should be celebrated. People are people and all that really matters is what is in their hearts.” Drescher grew up on Manhattan’s Upper East Side and after graduating from the prestigious Fieldston School went on to earn a bachelor’s of arts degree from Vassar College, a master’s degree in French literature from New York University and a doctorate from Benjamin N. Cardozo School of Law. Today, the Dreschers and their four children – Harrison, Veronica, Hudson and Sienna – split their time between Manhattan and Southampton. While she confirms she will be returning for the sixth season of Real Housewives of New York City, Drescher is less than free to share any of the juicy details, teasing only that it will definitely not be drama-free. “The next season promises to be absolutely mind-blowing. A lot of alliances will change. It will be wild!” One thing Drescher is eager to talk about – and can – is the release of her first book, a memoir set to hit bookstores and online retailers on Nov. 19. Appropriately titled Leggy Blond, the book is a tell-all of what Drescher refers to as her ‘crazy life.’

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“I don’t necessarily express myself perfectly on camera and I wanted to tell the story of my life – losing the leg was just the beginning of the crazy – in a more relaxed, carefully thought out way that wasn’t subject to Bravo-style editing,” Drescher said. “The book is the unedited story of my life and covers every thing from the accident, my wackadoo

childhood, relationships, marriages, divorce, lawsuits… In it, I recount all the horror, pain, love, adventure, heartbreak and the many blessings of my crazy life.” Among those blessings are her husband and children. With filming for Real Housewives done mostly in New York City and the Hamptons with some out-of-town outings and getaways thrown into the mix, Drescher is able to still maintain a somewhat normal life that includes playmates, seeing her older kids off to school and tucking them all in at night. So how does the philanthropist, wife, mom, reality TV star and, oh yeah, author, juggle it all? “I do it all; I just don’t do it all very well,” she joked. “I say dumb things on television and have realized I can’t be everything to everyone all of the time. I just do the best I can.” Although she acknowledges that being one of the ‘Real Housewives’ requires her to follow a certain formula, she has learned not to take too much of what is said and written about her to heart.

“I have learned the game at this point and I am pretty much bulletproof. I don’t get too vested in what is said about me, whether it be positive or negative.” “I was hired to produce an entertaining television show filled with drama. When I pushed the envelope, the result was better ratings but at the same time viewers were disappointed because they preferred when I was the ‘voice of reason,’” she said. “I have learned the game at this point and I am pretty much bulletproof. I don’t get too vested in what is said about me, whether it be positive or negative.”

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When all is said and done, Drescher knows that it’s just a show. “People are seeing teeny moments of my life. I know who I am, as do my family and friends,” she said, adding that being able to fulfill her goal and continue to raise awareness for amputees and others with physical limitations makes it all worth it in the end. “As long as I am being talked and written about, I can continue to get my more important messages out there and help others,” said Drescher.

September 2013 | 73

features

25A

Farnsworth and The Bizarre Saga of

winifred bird Story and color photography by Monica Randall

The northwest side of house where a marble pool was the scene of many lavish parties

arnsworth lay in ruins by the time I discovered it one day while riding through Oyster Bay on horseback. Abandoned since 1940, with all its furnishings still in it, the former Long Island showplace appeared to be melting in time like a Salvador Dali painting. Leaks in the roof had caused the carved walls and pediments to dissolve and fall like powdered stone to the floor. Vines had worked their way through the broken tall glass windows where they inched their way up the walls and along the tattered drapes now blackened with mold. The massive front door had been ripped off its hinges and was listing dangerously to one side. Beams of hazy light filtered through the glass ceiling of an atrium courtyard. Most of the Tiffany-

74 | 25A www.25Amagazine.com

style glass had been smashed by vandals. In the center stood the shattered remains of a marble fountain with a bronze cupid held suspended by a bent lead pipe. Its head was broken off. Throughout the 60-room house, huge chunks of plaster had given way and lay in heaps on the buckled oak floor. Muslin sheets covered some of the Louis XV armchairs and oak Renaissance tables. The whole north side of the house was taken up by a huge oval ballroom whose walls were awash in colorful frescos and images of dissolving mythological beasts, angels and flower garlands. Off to the side, a pair of giant 17th century Venetian torchiers stood with broken arms that were hanging from exposed electric wires. I was beguiled by the place long before I heard the rumors. Locals claimed Farnsworth was haunted. There

were said to be two ghosts, one being old Wallis C. Bird, its late owner who was killed in a plane crash. The other ghost was his beautiful wife, a former Ziegfeld showgirl who was murdered by her own psychiatrist. The crumbling mansion was everything you’d expect from a haunted house. Long tendrils of ivy had wrapped themselves like funeral wreaths around the statues of nymphs in the abandoned garden. In the drawing room a pair of moss-covered concert grand pianos were said to play ’20’s tunes unaided by human hands. Overhead a giant crystal chandelier hung at an odd angle, where bands of dusty prisms appeared to be held together by blackened cobwebs. The house also contained one of the largest privately owned pipe organs in the country. Its massive pipes ran from the basement up to the third floor. When played, its booming sound could be heard all over Oyster Bay, but now it was said to play by itself.

The young Mrs. Winifred Bird and former Ziegfeld showgirl

Back in the ’60s it was not uncommon to see beautiful old manor houses abandoned and falling apart but Farnsworth stood out for its unique architectural features and curious past. The house seemed to pulse with an inner life all its own. It made you want to know

The oval ballroom with colorful fresco walls (Photo credit: Town & Country Magazine 1915) September 2013 | 75

its story and curious circumstances that brought it to that place of ruin. I wanted to put a giant glass dome over it and preserve it just as it was, broken glass, buckled floors, dissolving walls and all. It was, in its present state, one of the most extraordinary works of art I’d ever seen.

Wallis and Winifred The story of the Wallis C. Bird estate is probably the most tragic and macabre of all the ruined houses on the Gold Coast. It was originally built in 1915 by C.K.G. Billings, a utilities magnate and art collector. He built it as a gift for his son, who was killed in the First World War. The house stood empty and abandoned until Wallis Bird purchased it in 1924 for his wife, Winifred. The palace, along with stables for 40 horses and 20car garage, were designed by Guy Lowell and it was said to be one of the finest examples of Georgian architecture. But once you stepped inside the massive Mediterranean entrance it was like entering another world. The giant 60-foot atrium rose up to the glass dome. Palm trees stood about in giant Chinese urns. In the center, the pink marble pool was filled with exotic gold fish, where an ornate pedestal supported the bronze cupid who posed at the ready to fire an arrow into someone’s heart.

they held at their 60-foot pool. At another event, a troupe of circus horses performed on the front lawn. It may not have been Hollywood, but Winnie was the star of all their homemade films. Bird kept a stable of 40 horses, but his real passion was his 20-car garage filled with the most expensive cars money could buy. Gleaming behind each bay was a Hispano-Suiza, several custom-painted Rolls-Royces, a Bugatti, Stutz Bearcats, Bentleys and an Alfa Romeo, all tended to by a staff of mechanics. Winnie busied herself with collecting fabulous gowns from Paris and buying jewels. She wore diamonds to the beach and in the pool. At some point she landed on the best-dressed lists and was often featured in Vogue magazine. She once showed up at a neighbor’s fancy tea party dressed from head to toe in a bubble gum pink dress with matching hat, shoes, gloves and hair dyed to match. The Birds’ every move and activity was recorded on film of which Wallis would have weekly screenings in the ballroom for his friends. Years later, the two giant Movieola film projectors stood rusting away in the glassed-in solarium next to the ballroom. Miles of black and white 35 millimeter movie film had been torn from their metal canisters by vandals where it now snaked all over the house and zigzagged from room to room like a jumble of streamers on New Year’s Eve. You could

Wallis Coleman Bird was the only son of a wealthy Wall Street lawyer and one of the biggest stockholders of Standard Oil. Bird loved the arts and theater and was smitten one night when he first saw the high-kicking, raven-haired Winifred Kendall on stage at the Ziegfeld Follies. Winifred, known as Winnie, was born in a shack along the railroad tracks in Missouri. Her father worked for the railroad. Not wanting any part of that life, she packed a suitcase and headed for New York in 1917. Florenz Ziegfeld spotted her on the street and put her in his show. Wallis sent her a dozen red roses after seeing her on stage, but she was not taken by him, as he was five inches shorter than she. Winnie had hopes of making it on the silver screen one day. Wallis promised to make her dreams come true even if he had to produce and direct the films himself. They began to see one another and he swept her off her feet by showing her New York’s glittering nightlife and places like the Stork Club and El Morocco. They eventually married and moved to Farnsworth where the parties they hosted became legendary. Wallis made good on his promise and began making professional-scale movies of the lavish entertainments 76 | 25A www.25Amagazine.com

A pair of giant French doors stands shattered in the ballroom

Muslim sheets covered most of the priceless furnishings on the second floor (1965)

hold strips of film up to the light and make out the images that captured life on the Gold Coast during its heyday. There was Winifred smiling in a flapper dress as she danced around the marble fountain or posed elegantly on the satin divan holding a glass of champagne. There were shots of the happy couple prancing about in an open field on horseback. Another reel showed Wallis Bird driving around the courtyard in one of his shiny new cars, seeming very proud to show it off in front of the servants. Several frames down showed Bird at an airport, most likely Roosevelt Field, where he was climbing into a small plane that would end their fairy tale life.

A marble fountain with bronze cupid once stood in the main entrance

On June 5, 1940, Bird was flying his private plane up to the Catskills for some peace and quiet. As he was cruising over the Hudson River, a violent storm erupted and the plane was hit by lightning and crashed not far from the waterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s edge. His mangled body was found the next day. Devastated, his widow ordered the broken pieces of the plane collected, placed in crates and stored in the basement of Farnsworth. Winnie was never the same. Unable to deal with her husbandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s sudden death, she spent the next several years at Doctors Hospital in New York and all but abandoned the house in Oyster Bay with everything in it. Despite September 2013 | 77

the fragile state of her mind, she retained control over the vast fortune she inherited and though living in a hospital, she was free to come and go as she pleased. As the years passed, Winnie began to take on a kind of a Norma Desmond (Sunset Boulevard) persona and wore fur and ostrich-trimmed negligees during the day, then slipped out at night with her diamonds and gowns and headed for the Stork Club and El Morocco. As a rich widow, Winnie was never without her circle of handsome escorts.

The Prince of Darkness On one of Winifred’s many trips to Paris to have more gowns made for her, she met a man who claimed to be a prince. Prince Nicolas Sturdza, who designed dresses and hats, spoke seven languages and was a taller version of her late husband. The prince was fascinated by the $1 million necklace she was wearing, with the 10 huge emeralds that had originally belonged to King Ludwig of Bavaria. Over cocktails one night, Sturdza began to weave tall tales. He intrigued Winnie with a dramatic account about how he had just escaped from Communist Romania after spending three years hiding in a mountain cave, where government police had put a price on his head. He claimed his mother was starving in prison and his father had been shot trying to escape. Winnie was so taken by his story that without checking to see if it was true, she gave him $50,000 so he could try and save his family. A short time later, she cooed to the press, “I’m in love with a prince. He makes me feel 20 again.” He was 16 years younger than she was and when friends tried to warn her that he was not what he seemed, Winnie snapped, “He is not a gigolo like so many phony princes who target vulnerable rich women, like that poor fool Barbara Hutton.” Despite the warning signs, they became engaged and Winnie made plans to restore the long abandoned villa in Oyster Bay. They began to travel all over Europe buying expensive things for the house, staying in the best hotels – with her footing all the bills. Sturdza had promised to introduce her to the European royalty but never got around to it, nor did she leave him when it got back to her that he kept a string of young boys on hand wherever they traveled. But as time passed she was beginning to tire of him. Things took a dark turn when Sturdza realized he was about to lose his meal ticket and brought in an old psychiatrist friend, Dr. Gerard Savoy. Savoy had been in trouble 78 | 25A www.25Amagazine.com

with the law and his license had been suspended. Within a short time, Winnie was under the complete control of Sturdza and Savoy and was being forced to take as many as 100 pills a day. While she was in a fugue state, Sturdza would take Winnie shopping to the most expensive shops in Europe where he would manipulate her into spending $20,000 to $60,000 on jewelry. The gems were brought back to the hotel and stored in a vault. Records show that even in a drugged state, Winnie knew she was in trouble and cabled her attorney in New York claiming that she feared her life was in danger. Her pleas for help were ignored. In July 1961, Winifred’s lawyer received a cable stating that she had died during the night at the Beau Rivage Hotel in Lausanne. Dr. Savoy listed the cause of death as cerebral hemorrhage. Her millions in jewels vanished without a trace. The lawyer, suspicious, flew to Lausanne and informed the police about Winnie’s calls for help. Her funeral had already taken place and after much wrangling and paperwork, her body was exhumed and an autopsy showed she had been poisoned with a massive dose of morphine.

The Entrance Atria in Ruins The murder trial created a sensation on both continents. Sturdza, who as it turned out was not a prince, and Dr. Savoy, who was no longer a doctor,

Four gilt chairs stand forgotten in a darkened hall were both convicted of murder and sent to prison for life. Most of Winifred Bird’s jewels were never found.

Farnsworth’s Final Days Things were not going so well at the Oyster Bay mansion. The place was so overgrown you could barely make it up the driveway. The caretaker, Joe Ryan, had not been paid his wages in over two years and so to recoup some of his losses he began a little enterprise of his own. During the ’50s and ’60s everyone in Oyster Bay knew that if you drove up to the estate with a bottle of Johnny Walker in hand, no matter what the size of the bottle, old Joe would escort you up to the house where you were free to pick out whatever struck your fancy. It did not matter if it was a rare priceless chair, gilt mirror, an oriental rug, a painting or whatever. He would help you load it into your car and off you’d go until the next week when you might find yourself in need of a pair of 17th century andirons or a Ming Dynasty vase.

The Car Auction of the Century In 1962, one of the most celebrated car auctions took place at the estate in the courtyard next to the huge garage. The sale created a media frenzy as hundreds of people from all over the country came to bid on the priceless collection. The cars had been

up on blocks and had not been driven since Wallace Bird’s death in 1940 so there was no guarantee they were in running order, which made buyers nervous. A valuable 1934 Hispano-Suiza sold for only $3,500. Winnie’s fabulous gowns that had been left in the attic trunks, I’m happy to say, I rescued most of them before Farnsworth was bulldozed to the ground in 1966. The house was reduced to a pile of rubble along with the shattered remains of Wallis Bird’s death plane and everything else not traded for booze that was left behind. They say you can tear a house down but you can’t erase the energies, a.k.a electromagnetic imprint, that records all that has gone before… Learn more in the October issue of 25A magazine in “Gold Coast Ghosts.” Farnsworth was located just down the road to the north of Coe Hall (Planting Fields). (Author’s note: My one regret in life is that being a dumb kid at the time, it never occurred to me to rescue even one foot of those precious film records from the ’20s and ’30s. Perhaps someone reading this will come forward and say that he or she did. If you’re out there, please call me at 516.921.7438) September 2013 | 79

features

25A

The Uncertain Fate of

Inisfada...

Now Lies in the Hands of God

Photography By Jason Feinberg By Victoria Crosby “Welcome to Downton Abbey,” joked Father Damian Halligan as he welcomed our tour group to St. Ignatius Jesuit Retreat House in Manhasset, just a few short weeks before the mansion, one of the most intact on Long Island, was no longer the property of the Jesuits, who have maintained it so lovingly for more than 50 years. As everybody knows, Downton Abbey is a fictitious television drama, although Highclere Castle in England, where it is filmed, does undeniably stand. Sadly, the fate of Inisfada (the name means Long Island in Gaelic) is unknown at this time, but there is no question that it is in great 80 | 25A www.25Amagazine.com

jeopardy. Over the years, many guests, myself included, have visited the mansion on retreats or other spiritual journeys. Some have walked the labyrinth in the gardens or studied Zen meditation in the old billiards room. The Jesuits are an inclusive order and people of many faiths have visited the retreat, either on tours that last an hour or so, or for stays of a week or more. At this time, Inisfada is no longer open to the public. Nicholas Frederick Brady had Inisfada built between 1916-20 as a summer home. The son of a poor Irish immigrant, Anthony Brady, Nicholas became a wealthy industrialist.

His mother was an American Anglican and he was raised Episcopalian, but converted to Catholicism shortly before he married Genevieve Garvan in 1906. They attended the parish of St. Ignatius Loyola in New York. Brady graduated from Yale in 1899 and became president of New York Edison Company and many other corporations. He was a financial power in his own right but always worked to help those less fortunate. He inherited enough money that he didn’t have to work a day in his life but chose to invest wisely in cotton, copper and steel and he doubled his wealth.

nisfada was a tenth anniversary gift for Genevieve. John Torrey Windrim designed the 87-room Tudor revival mansion at a cost of over $2 million, with gardens by the famous Olmsted Brothers. The outside of the mansion is decorated with 13 fairy tales and fables in relief, including Hansel and Gretel, The Tortoise and the Hare and Little Red Riding Hood, among others. There are 37 chimneys, each one with a different design.

Library

“It feels as though I am sitting vigil at the bedside of a dying friend.” Genevieve donated the estate to the Catholic Church in 1937. In 2012, with only two priests still living on the property, the cost had become too prohibitive for the Jesuits to manage, so the estate was put up for sale with an asking price of $49 million. At this time, the mansion and 33 acres have been sold, and residents and concerned conservationists are afraid that the mansion will be demolished and the property will become a housing development, like so many of Long Island’s great mansions. The J.P Morgan estate, Pembroke, Elsinore, Maxwelton – all in Glen Cove – have been demolished and houses, albeit expensive homes, now are on those properties. The Pratt mansions still stand and are privately owned and used in many different forms. The Bradys donated large amounts to the Vatican and the Catholic Church in America. They were friends with three popes and had many honors bestowed on them by the church, including being named Papal Duke and Duchess.

Great Hall

Player Pipe Organ

The Great Hall of the mansion, used by the Jesuits as a chapel, was used as a ballroom by the Bradys. The room has a very high ceiling with beams, pegged wood floors and the huge fireplace with Celtic motifs that can be seen throughout the house. The Aeolian organ in the choir loft at the far end of the room has 5,000 pipes and used music scrolls that could reproduce the sound of an orchestra or play music by the great composers Beethoven or Mozart without an organist. The room was September 2013 | 81

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Parlor

used by the Bradys for debutante balls, parties for nieces and nephews, for fundraisers and for the Girl Scouts, as Genevieve Brady served as chairperson of the Girl Scouts of America. The Bradys were very philanthropic and much of their charity work involved children. Mrs. Brady was also a supporter of Marie Curie. Upstairs are many bedrooms, 80 in all, including the servants’ quarters on the third floor, which were used for retreats when the Jesuits owned Inisfada. There is a large dining room off the large kitchen and pantry, several smaller rooms and a library that housed the Bradys’ collections of books, including many from the French Renaissance. The house was furnished with antiques collected by the Bradys.

Engraved Banister

Front Entry

A conservatory was added in later years. Most of the furniture wasn’t original to the mansion, as the originals had been sold at auction years ago, but some had been donated back to the mansion, including some chairs. In one of the rooms the intricate ceiling designs were patterned after designs of Persian rugs with light switches hidden behind the wood paneling. The jewel of the mansion is St. Genevieve Chapel, which will be dismantled and given to Fordham University, probably to be used on the Bronx campus. The chapel was built with special and rare permission from the Vatican because of the Brady’s strong connection to the Catholic Church. Cardinal Eugenio Pacelli, who later became Pope Pius XII, stayed at the mansion many times as a good friend of the Bradys and he celebrated Mass in the chapel. His vestments were on display in a cabinet in the hall of Inisfada. Now all the Jesuit property has been removed. The chapel has stained glass windows depicting French and Irish saints, intricately carved woodwork by Bavarian craftsmen and the Stations of the Cross carved around the room. This small piece of grace and beauty will at least be preserved, but the fate of the rest of the mansion is questionable and tenuous. Current zoning permits half-acre plots and it is possible that a housing development or

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Hand Crafted Wood

condos could spring up where this magnificent mansion now stands. Alexandra Wolfe, director of preservation services for the Society for the Preservation of Long Island Antiquities (SPLIA), said, “The property is not a designated landmark, although it is eligible for listing on the National Register of Historic Places, which is not an outright protection against demolition by private owners.” Father Damian said the Jesuits didn’t want it landmarked as they felt that would impede the sale of the property. After writing this piece, I made another visit to Inisfada. I found men from the company Got Junk loading vehicles to haul away unwanted items. The room where the chapel had been is now stripped down to the studs, with exposed pipes and electrical wires. The stained glass windows have been replaced with clear glass. Julie Byrne, conference and retreat coordinator for nine years, said, “It feels as though I am sitting vigil at the bedside of a dying friend.”

Main Staircase

She spoke emotionally as she recalled how she observed the chapel being carefully dismantled.

“There are solutions, but it requires getting the involved parties to a discussion table.” Richard Bentley, president of the Council of Greater Manhasset Civic Association said, “In the case of Inisfada, we have a veil of secrecy from the seller (the Jesuits), a yetto-be identified Hong Kong developer and a municipality (the Incorporated Village of North Hills) with no concern about historical preservation or the socio-spiritual services at Inisfada. The village government cries, ‘We’re doing everything legal’ and we agree with them – but they are blind to the fact that being legal does not make it the right thing to do. So many expected the Jesuits would have placed more effort on preserving the historical gift that the

Bradys entrusted to them. Clearly the Jesuits have chosen to cash in and cash in fast with no time for any discussion. Most, including myself, have no problem with the Jesuits cashing in on their treasure, but to throw the treasure under the bus in the process is just wrong. It’s both wrong and permanent... once this piece of our history is demolished, it is forever gone. Once a sale closing occurs, it takes the Jesuits out of the process – they will have received their 30 pieces of silver. At that point, all focus comes on the Village of North Hills, whose approval is required for the developer’s housing project as well as the issuance of any demolition permit. There are solutions but it requires getting the involved parties to a discussion table.” There are currently two petitions to save Inisfada on the website Change.org. Time will tell if this property will become yet another casualty of the wrecker’s ball or used as other mansions have been as hotels, spas, conference centers or schools.

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25A Emerging Artist Jerry DeMeo ‘Music Is Who and What I Am’ By Victoria Caruso

eat dinner and then lock myself in my room and just play for hours,” said DeMeo, who refers to his musical style as multi-genre with traces of country, jazz, rock and classical.

“All the pieces began to fall into place and I was encouraged to go into the studio and lay down some tracks.”

inger, songwriter and musician Jerry DeMeo is proving it is never too late to pursue your dreams. Knowing firsthand how difficult it is to make it as a full-time musician, the Huntington resident pursued a professional career in the corporate world but continued to practice and play acoustic guitar and jot down lyrics in his spare time. It wasn’t until about seven years ago that the senior vice president/senior portfolio manager for Morgan Stanley came to the realization that if artists such as BB King were still jamming at the ripe young age of 80, there should be nothing stopping him. Inspired by a German musician and Clapton fanatic he found online, DeMeo downloaded endless pages on the musician’s style and technique. “I would come home from the office, work out,

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DeMeo’s practice and determination began to pay off three years ago when he started booking numerous gigs, making a name for himself. “All the pieces began to fall into place and I was encouraged to go into the studio and lay down some tracks,” he said. And the rest, as they say, is history! In February 2013, the singer/songwriter’s debut album, Headin’ East Headin’ West, was released. DeMeo sings lead vocals and plays acoustic guitar on all 10 of the album’s original tracks, which he penned over the years. Described as country tinged with hints of rhythm and blues and other styles, the album also features the musical talents of DeMeo’s brothers Dennis and Pete along with Neal Ferraro (who also co-produced the album), Frank Vilardi, Jimmy Rosica and Kurt Uzbay. Additionally, Joe Ruvio and former Brooklyn Bridge bandleader and Long Island Music Hall of Fame inductee Tommy Sullivan can be heard singing background vocals. When it comes to songwriting, DeMeo said he prefers to write about everyday situations

and experiences people can relate to. “I write about issues and situations that appeal to a broader audience,” he said. “I try not to get too deep or too out there; I want my lyrics to be interpretable.” Although he has no plans to give up his day job just yet, DeMeo is working on material for his next album and enjoying his success. In addition to solo gigs throughout Long Island and in Florida, DeMeo recently teamed with Aztec Two Step and Jim Dawson, Frank Carillo and Peppy Castro (Barnaby Bye) and The Funk Filharmonik. In May, he joined up-andcoming singer/songwriter/actress Consuelo Vanderbilt Costin, comedian/radio personality Jackie Martling and the band Soul Be It for a special performance at 25A magazine’s May 2013 cancer fundraiser. And in November, he will share the stage with Toby Walker at Glen Cove’s Page One Restaurant and Cabaret. DeMeo, who credits artists such as Leo Kottke, Stephen Stills and Jorma Kaukonen among others as his greatest influences, describes himself as an emerging artist who is living his dream. “Music is so much a part of me – it is who and what I am,” he said, adding, “It just comes naturally and, most recently, it has taken on a life of its own. I am very fortunate to be able to do something I love.” Tracks from Headin’ East Headin’ West can be can be heard on such streaming Internet radio stations as Jango.com, Spotify.com and Pandora.com. Additionally, the album and/or individual songs can be purchased online at jerrydemeo.com, CDBaby.com, Amazon.com and iTunes.

when is it wrong? Answer: When it is never right! By Professor JM Love

Simple answer to a highly complex and emotional issue. To illustrate: A close, longtime friend of mine recently broke up with a woman after a six- month relationship. The longer it endured, the more uncomfortable their interactions became. He would want Italian for dinner; she would want sushi. He would want to see a movie; she would want to go for dinner with another couple. Innocuous comments were taken personally and deemed insulting by both parties. A dissonance quickly crept into the picture. End of romance. The following is a list of ‘tried and true’ oneliners I have complied. Perhaps you can identify with some of them to help you assess the path of your relationship. You’ll know it is wrong if:

You dislike the foods (or music) that your partner likes. You think quietly, and many a time, that your partner could use elective plastic surgery and/ or a personality transplant. She’s heavy, but he has a big tummy. Sometimes the date can’t end early enough for either of you.

You begin to realize that your conversation always has a “Yes, but…” in it. He (or she) yawns when you are about to make love. And I’ve saved the best for last: Do you begin to see similarities in your current partner that annoyed you about your ex?

You’d rather drink than link. Or worse … you need to drink to link.

If the above brought a smile to your face, then I am glad to have entertained you. However, if you recognize four or more comments which can be attributed to your current relationship, you may wish to re-evaluate things. I don’t see it spelling ‘long-term commitment’ in Professor Love’s dictionary.

Your date makes little or no effort to show any interest in your children and/or grandchildren.

Until next month, happy dating.

You prefer to wash your hair, do the laundry, play video games or go to the gym rather than be together.

You value the lust but not the love. You merely tolerate each other’s friends.

(Editor’s Note: Our resident Dating Guru at 25A, Professor JM Love welcomes your comments and suggestions. Please send them to his email at jkmjjjjj@yahoo.com.)

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C A S A

G u a t e m a l a

ver the past few months I’ve traveled to Aruba, Costa Rica and now Guatemala and to sum it up for those who aren’t sure what type of vacation they are looking for, I thought I’d offer you a brief synopsis.

If you’re looking for a tropical getaway but still need that European/Americanized flair complete with luxury shopping, then Aruba is the right place for you. If you’re looking for more of an adventurous excursion with resorts only feet away from tropical forests, then it’s Costa Rica for sure. But if it’s peace and quiet with old world culture and handcrafted goods, then Casa Palopó in Guatemala is the perfect fit.

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found By Jason Feinberg

Our adventure began after a one-hour drive from La Aurora International Airport to Antigua, a UNESCO World Heritage Site surrounded by massive churches and Spanish architecture. Once Guatemala’s capital, Antigua was struck by a number of earthquakes in the 1700s, which eventually led to a relocation of the country’s capital. Today, horse and buggies click clack on cobblestone streets that crisscross along historic buildings and are lined with restaurants and markets that lead to the city’s Parque Central (Central Park).

Casa Palopó Antigua is quite hidden and blends in beautifully with its surroundings. This is a perfect first-night stop before heading over to Casa Palopó at Lake Atitlán, located two hours away in Lake Atitlán. As we entered through the hotel’s two massive wooden doors, I was struck by its open-air courtyard and fountain. Originally built as a private home, this three-bedroom villa has been converted by owner Claudia Bosch into a comfortable and quaint hotel with the ambiance of a B&B.

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Guestroom at Casa Palopó, Antigua

Each room, equipped with a private bathroom and fireplace, is located right off the courtyard. There are two living rooms, a library, small bar and dining room as well as a small pool. On our trip, Claudia had Chef Mirciny Moliviatis, known as the ambassador for Guatemalan gastronomy and star of two shows, Pure Chef and El Sabor de Mi Tierra (Flavors of My Land), as well as executive chef of several restaurants and

Blue moon over the courtyard

Exterior walkway surrounding the courtyard

a catering company, serve us a very special meal that left us sated and sleepy. Since I was traveling to Central America, and once again leaving 100-degree heat in New York, I was expecting the same. However, I was quite surprised that the temperature dipped into the 50s at night due to the high elevation and I decided to go to bed with a fire in the fireplace, where I quickly fell asleep to the crackling of the logs.

Pool and jacuzzi

The next morning we headed to Lake Atitlán with a stop at Chichicastenango’s famous marketplace. This in itself was an unbelievable sight. As we reached the beginning of the market, the street virtually disappeared and was entrenched with bright colors from tarps and fabrics and aromas of local dishes being cooked by street vendors. The market was filled with handcrafted masks, blankets, clothes and religious items. Here, as at any market, it’s all about price. And just like buying a car, never pay sticker.

1. Cathedral of San Jose, Antigua 2, 3, 4, 5 - Streets and Church in Antigua 6. Common taxis 7,8 The market at Chichicastenango 8. Church in Chichicastenango

Living room and restaurant at Lake Atitlán

Guestroom at Palopó, Lake Atitlán

Terrace and 6.8 Palopó Restaurant Boat Ride

Locally made ceramics

After a couple of hours, I literally couldn’t carry any more items so we headed to Casa Palopó at Lake Atitlán. The driveway escalated uphill with hairpin turns and placed us midpoint between the seven-room hotel and the two-bedroom villa. This boutique hotel, also once a private home, is perched on the side of a hill overlooking Lake Atitlán, a 1,100-foot-deep lake filling a caldera surrounded by three volcanoes.

Locally made ceramics

Locally made fabrics and clothing

Upon entering Casa Palopó, you immediately get a feeling of relaxation. The hotel is very quiet. Like the villa in Antigua, there are no televisions. There is a large living room and bar with an outside terrace and the 6.8 Palopó restaurant. Each room is spacious and includes a private outdoor terrace, minibar and priceless view. Shortly after I checked in, I was treated to a muchneeded in-room spa treatment. Then it was off to dinner upstairs.

Panajachel

Circus Bar at Panajachel

The restaurant 6.8 Palopó is an experience in itself. The menu offers up a varied selection of international cuisine of fish, steak, chicken, lamb and pastas. The artichoke gratin and tuna tartar are two appetizers that I strongly recommend. In the evening, I was pleasantly surprised at how comfortable the temperature was –about 72 degrees and zero humidity. I relaxed by the outdoor terrace, glass of wine in hand, overlooking Lake Atitlán illuminated by villages around the water’s edge. A distant lighting storm revealed silhouettes of the three volcanoes. An occasional flicker of light from the candle chandeliers seemed to make the shadows dance while

Villa Infinity Pool overlooking Lake Atitlán stars filled the dark night sky. The peaceful silence was disturbed only by the sounds of local insects singing their evening song.

Learning to make tortillas

The next morning we walked down to the lake for a boat ride to San Antonio where we toured local villagers making textiles and ceramics before heading over to Panajachel. Panajachel, located only a few minutes from Casa Palopó, is the largest and most popular town on the lake with a reputation as a “hippie” hangout. The town is essentially the opposite of San Antonio with its vast stores, restaurants and visitors. We stopped at Circus Bar, which boasted “the best pizza in Guatemala.” Being from New York, of course I was prepared to be critical of the pizza but I have to say, I was pleasantly surprised. After our walking tour, I headed back to the hotel and hopped on the iPad (yes, there is free WiFi) and before I knew it my phone was ringing. “Mr. Feinberg, they would like you to join them at the pool for cocktails.” I hadn’t even realized that I had fallen asleep for an hour and a half! As I reached the driveway, I looked up to where the Villa was located a little higher up the hill. It was at that point I heard, “Would you like a ride up to the Villa?” Having just woken up, I knew I would be exhausted if I even attempted the walk, and why pass up a perfectly good offer? I joined my colleagues and our host, Claudia, along with her daughter an aspiring chef, Marcela, poolside next to a fireplace and I enjoyed a glass of wine while taking in the sunset. After the sun was down, we retreated back to the hotel’s terrace where we had a lesson by a native “tortillera” in, what else? Tortilla making.

The view at sunset

While I thought I was quickly becoming a pro, Marcela and her Culinary Institute of America classmates showed up and my tortillas started to look more like doilies than tortillas. For our last night, we were in for a real dining treat at 6.8 Palopó. Chef/ Sommelier Antonio Argueta created a special dinner preview and wine pairing for their new menu which included filet mignon, foie gras and a spinach and shrimp salad with truffle vinaigrette. All in all, it was a fivestar meal! September 2013 | 91

Helipad

View from above

Landing at Casa Palopó

Farmland

While I stated earlier that this trip was for those who really needed the R&R getaway, I do have to include a little adventure, one that I highly recommend. On our last morning, I awoke like a kid on Christmas. I threw everything into my suitcase without any care, kind of like throwing everything into the closet when your parents make you clean your room. I had never been in such a rush to leave a hotel. And why, you ask, after such a great time? Well, perched below the Villa’s infinity pool were two big circles with an H in the middle. No, this wasn’t the missing key to the Nazca Lines; they were helipads and our trip to the airport wouldn’t be by car. I rushed up to the helipad (okay, I was driven to the helipad) and unpacked my cameras and waited. And waited. And waited. Then I heard it – the distant rumbling of rotor blades. I suddenly realized that while I had been sitting like a sniper in the same location with my camera aimed off to the south, I actually had no idea where the helicopter was coming from. To make matters worse, between the mountains and volcanoes surrounding the lake, the sound was echoing from all directions. But fate was on my side that day. As I was about to look over my shoulder, I noticed the Eurocopter appear from around the side of the hill, just where I was pointed. 92 | 25A www.25Amagazine.com

Mayan ruins

View from above

Within a few minutes, all the bags were packed and we were saying our goodbyes. I of course called shotgun and sat in the co-pilot’s seat. After a few quick checks, the rotors started to spin and we were lifting off, headed out over the lake. It was here that we were able to see some amazing scenery. The lake, which didn’t seem very big, was actually 10 miles across; an illusion created by the three volcanoes that rose above 10,000 feet. We flew back over green countryside pastures and Mayan ruins, as well as small towns and villages. In less than 30 minutes we were landing at the airport, much better than the three hours it would have taken by car. As I boarded the plane back to New York, I thought that at some point, I’m going to need a break from things to just unwind and relax. Well, I had certainly found the place to go! When you decide to visit Casa Palopó, helicopter and ground transportation can be arranged when you book your reservation. For more information, visit www.casaPalopó.com.

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25A 10th Annual Long Island Garlic Festival Swing by the Garden of Eve Organic Farm and Market in Riverhead on Sept. 21 and 22 for the 10 th Annual Long Island Garlic Festival! Enjoy this all-day celebration of the wonders of ‘Garliciana,’ with festival vendors featuring a wide array of garlic-inspired foods (including more than eight varieties of garlic to eat and plant), crafts and live music from 10 am – 6 pm, rain or shine. If you think you have the stomach for it, participate in a garlic-eating contest or garlic ‘Iron Chef’ competition! This festival will definitely live up to its reputation as the best ‘stinky fun’ for the entire family! www.gardenofevefarm.com

ever wunder By Gwen Wunderlich-Smith Though summer may be coming to an end, the fun doesn’t have to! As the weather gets cooler, your social calendar will heat up with events all around Long Island. Breathe in the crisp autumn air and celebrate the beginning of a new season with food, fashion, festivals and a high-flying float. These activities will ensure the most memorable September to date! Enjoy… 94 | 25A www.25Amagazine.com

Millicent Rogers: Heiress, Fashion Icon and Her World Exhibition Beauty. Brains. Fortune. Fashion. Friends. Parties. Marriages. Divorce. Romances. This September, head over to the Planting Fields Manor House’s exhibition dedicated to the late socialite, fashion icon, art collector and activist Millicent Rogers. This granddaughter of Standard Oil tycoon Henry Huttleson Rogers served as a fashion icon for Vogue magazine, Harper’s Bazaar and other publications, and designed her own clothes, jewelry and car. In addition, she founded the Medical and Surgical Relief Committee, promoted the issue of Indian rights and citizenship in Washington D.C., and successfully lobbied for Native American art to be classified as ‘historic,’ and therefore protected. This exhibition at the Planting Field’s Manor House on Sept. 1 and 2 is not to be missed!. www.plantingfields.org

us open Tennis fans, rejoice! The US Open transforms the Arthur Ashe Stadium in Queens into the mecca of the tennis world from Aug. 26 through Sept. 9. Sponsored in part by Ralph Lauren, Moët & Chandon, Mercedes-Benz, Emirates Airlines, CBS Sports and ESPN2, the US Open is the perfect combination of athleticism, culture and fashion. Come see if Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer will make up for their Wimbledon performances, if Andy Murray will continue his winning streak and if Serena Williams can dominate the Open in defense of her 2012 title. Make sure to grab your tickets to watch the pros close out the final Grand Slam tournament in what is sure to be a dramatic and awe-inspiring series!. www.usopen.org

Above The Clouds Hot Air Ballooning For a memorable day trip, grab that special someone and head to Middletown, N.Y. for a hot air balloon ride over the scenic Hudson Valley. Only about an hour north of New York City, Above The Clouds hot air ballooning is the experience of a lifetime and well worth the trip. Make a weekend out of the experience by staying at one of the many bed and breakfasts the Hudson Valley has to offer. During the traditional Champagne Balloon Flight – a longtime customer favorite – float over rolling green hills, small towns and lush farmland and observe the trees’ changing leaves in all their autumnal splendor. This 45-minute to hourlong flight concludes by popping a bottle of bubbly in the old French tradition and sharing a special toast, along with a keepsake photograph. Perfect for a special date, anniversary or engagement, Above The Clouds provides a picturesque experience straight out of a romance film. www.abovethecloudsinc.com

67th Shinnecock Powwow Rated one of the 10 best American Indian powwows by USA Today, the Shinnecock Powwow in Southampton N.Y. puts Native American culture on colorful display. Though the Shinnecock only received federal recognition in 2010 as the nation’s 565th tribe, the powwow has been an annual event since 1946. The 1,300-member tribe hosts as many as 100 other tribes for a multicultural extravaganza complete with traditional dance and drum performances as well as native arts and crafts. Join the celebration going on from Friday Aug. 30 through Monday Sept. 2. www.shinnecocknation.com

Taste of Nassau Come wine and dine with friends and family at a fabulous fall night of food, wine, music, raffles and more on Sept. 19 from 6 to 10 p.m. at the beautiful Chelsea Mansion! Everyone’s favorite Nassau County restaurants will be cooking up tastings of their most popular and delicious delicacies. Guests can get a taste of the best food and wine Nassau County has to offer, while benefiting funding for the Empire State Games for the Physically Challenged, which celebrates perseverance, diversity and personal achievement in student athletes ranging from ages 5 to 21. www.nassaucountyny.gov/agencies/Parks September 2013 | 95

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High Rolling at

Foxwoods...

By Lisa Werber

oxwoods Resort Casino recently celebrated its 20th anniversary and new and exciting changes will make your weekend or weekday getaway Anything But Ordinary, as their new campaign promises. Shopping the upscale brands is easy – Foxwoods features Bulgari, Chopard, Rolex, Judith Ripka, Swarovski and more, and will be adding an additional luxury shopping experience with a Tanger Factory Outlet Center slated to open in 2014. A collaboration

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among Foxwoods, the Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation, developer The Gordon Group and Tanger Factory Outlet Centers, Inc., the center will feature over 85 luxury outlet stores, connecting the MGM Grand to the Grand Pequot Hotel. If you forget something at home, no worries. There’s sure to be a place to get whatever you need (and then some!) when you get to Foxwoods. In fact, you might want to bring an empty suitcase just for the purchases you’ll make! Foxwoods offers an unrivaled guest rewards

program, a fabulous VIP check-in and vital mobile and Web enhancements. A complete business service center offers guests all the tools necessary for off-site meetings with round-the-clock tech support to answer all your questions. If you must bring work with you, by all means book a meeting room. With more than 150,000 square feet of functional meeting space and world-class catering at your fingertips, your company’s arrangements will dazzle your colleagues. Foxwoods’ unmatched attention to detail will help you orchestrate a flawless and productive event.

If shopping or working are not what you had in mind, then you must be here for what makes Foxwoods truly Anything But Ordinary: the lovely rooms, shimmery spas, vibrant casinos, non-stop nightlife and world-class dining options. The Grand Pequot Tower hotel, a AAA FourDiamond award recipient, features 808 rooms. From the moment you check in, you can feel the vibe. Guests are treated with the utmost respect. Flanked by striking art and architecture, the soaring lobby leads to a tower of spacious deluxe rooms and plush suites. Recent upgrades include contemporary décor with a blend of seafoam blue and soft ecru accents. The new rooms are spacious and stunning, although there’s barely time enough to enjoy them with so much fun at your fingertips! Then there’s the MGM Grand at Foxwoods hotel. Built in 2008, the MGM Grand property boasts a wealth of luxury amenities, including a 30-story hotel tower with 825 gorgeous guest rooms and suites, restaurants operated by celebrity chefs, a 21,000-square-foot G Spa by Gretta Monahan and a grand outdoor pool where you can sun, lounge, and re-charge. Enjoy a cocktail poolside. I brought home the recipe for a favorite of mine, a new spin on the old Arnold Palmer. Foxwoods calls it the Peach John Daley. Rather golf than sit poolside? Well, to each his own and Anything But Ordinary applies here as well. Experience New England’s finest championship, award-winning golf courses designed by renowned course architect Rees Jones and managed by Troon Golf. Lake of Isles Golf Course, owned by the Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation is located on more than 900 acres of picturesque landscape adjacent to Foxwoods Resort. The property includes an 18-hole private golf course (South Course), a 7,395-yard, 18-hole public golf course, open to hotel guests (North Course), an elegant and comfortable clubhouse and the exclusive Troon Golf Academy with four indoor teaching studios. Even though I barely had time to sit down, let alone to golf 18 holes, I can tell

Peach John Daley: • 2.5 oz. Ciroc Peach • Equal parts lemonade and iced tea • Fresh muddled mint • Fresh squeezed lemon • Garnish with fresh mint and lemon

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Lake of Isles Golf Course, owned by the Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation is located on more than 900 acres of picturesque landscape adjacent to Foxwoods Resort.

you from reports from the links that the North Course is a jewel. After you’ve overdone it in the sun or strained your hamstrings on the links, what could be better than a caviar facial or a hot stone massage in one of Foxwoods’ two sensuous spas? The Norwich Spa in the Grand Pequot Tower is known for personal service, exemplified by the Spa Concierge desk, where spa-goers are greeted moments after stepping off the elevator and whisked away to elegant appointments within the 21,000-square-foot facility. Luxurious men’s and women’s locker rooms include a whirlpool, steam room, sauna and lounge area. At the award-winning G Spa in the MGM Grand, relaxation-seekers find the perfect synergy of serenity and forward-thinking technology to bring mind and body into perfect balance. Customized massages rejuvenate the spirit in a private waterfall, pool or steam room. Ultimate pampering is polished off with a starquality hairstyle or mani/pedi in the salon. The G Spa is the ultimate oasis! From its humble beginnings in 1986, when the Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation of southeastern Connecticut opened a 2,100-seat bingo hall, through today, much has changed. Foxwoods Resort Casino is the Western Hemisphere’s largest casino destination, encompassing more than six million square feet of non-stop entertainment options. Six pulsing casinos boast more than 5,800 slot machines and 350 table games, worldwide poker tournaments and one of the largest bingo halls in the world, solidifying Foxwoods’ claim as the ultimate setting for high rollers and card sharks. The casino vibe sets the tone for non-stop fun and entertainment. All week you worry about your work, your appointments, cleaning, cooking, scheduling, deals, sales, mergers and acquisitions. Foxwoods is the Anything But Ordinary antidote to all that! Have only one or two nights to get away? No problem, but plan ahead. Allow me to interject a personal note (since I hate to pack) that you should indeed take

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plenty to wear because you are going to need it! Party clothes and spa clothes, bathing suits and sweaters (for the chilly casino), and of course, stilettos and sneakers, because you will need both. Sneaking back up to your room for a little costume change is part of the fun! Dining options at Foxwoods are unparalleled. For gourmet dining you can choose from seven fabulous restaurants: Al Dente, Alta Strada, Cedars Steak House, CraftSteak, David Burke Prime, Paragon and Shrine. Each one is better than the next but I highly recommend David Burke for his culinary prowess, his restaurant’s three-story wine tower with a choice of 5,000 bottles from around the world, masterfully saltaged steaks and whimsical desserts. You can always burn off the calories walking the casinos or laughing til it hurts at Comix at Foxwood. But for high cardio, I would recommend a night of dancing at Shrine. Shrine houses the only state-of-the art custom Funktion One sound system and DJ booth in New England and a frozen vodka and

champagne bar. But do it like a star with VIP bottle-service tables! If you’re more rocker than diva, visit The Scorpion Bar and indulge in some Mexican cantina delights or head over to High Rollers Luxury Lanes & Lounge for some bowling. That’s right, luxury bowling! You have to see it to believe it.

nother night, take in a show at the theater at the MGM Grand, no doubt some of the best entertainment you will see anywhere in a beautiful, state-of-the-art facility. There are only 4,000 seats, so if you like to be up-close and personal with rock bands (think Aerosmith, John Legend, Steely Dan, Lionel Ritchie) or fabulous comedians (Jerry Seinfeld, Brian Regan), you will love this theater, where every seat is a good one. If you find some time (and I recommend you do), be sure to visit the world-renowned Mashantucket Pequot Museum and Research Center located a short distance from Foxwoods Resort Casino. The museum

offers 85,000 square feet of exhibit space and engaging experiences for all ages, from lifesized walk-through dioramas that transport visitors into the past to changing exhibits and live performances of contemporary arts and cultures. Extensive interactive exhibits depict 18,000 years of Native and natural history, while two libraries, including one for children, offer a diverse selection of materials on the histories and cultures of all Native peoples of the United States and Canada. As the world’s largest Native American-owned and operated museum, the Mashantucket Pequot Museum and Research Center is endorsed by the Smithsonian Institute. It’s truly a unique and engaging museum worth more than one visit. Getting to Foxwoods couldn’t be easier. No airport, no checked baggage, no security clearance. Just jump in your car and drive, or travel by limousine, high-speed Sea Jet or helicopter to Groton and you are door-todoor in a few hours. There’s so much to do and see and enjoy. Come see why Foxwoods is Anything But Ordinary!

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25A

The Water’s Edge Resort & Spa … A Weekend Escape, Just Across the Sound By Gwen Wunderlich-Smith Set along the Long Island Sound in historic Westbrook, Connecticut, Water’s Edge Resort & Spa is an oasis of rest and rejuvenation. During your stay, you’ll enjoy access to countless amenities including a breathtaking private beach, a selection of 101 guestrooms and 68 villas, a dazzling meeting and event space, award-winning dining, warm hospitality, a luxurious full-service spa and access to a collection of indoor and outdoor pursuits including casinos, boat rides, shopping, golf, museums and much more. As one of the premier New England beach resorts for leisure travelers, romantic escapes, one-of-a-kind weddings, groups and corporate events and seaside vacations, Water’s Edge Resort & Spa is the ideal location as we bid goodbye to summer and welcome fall with open arms. My husband and I arrived at Water’s Edge early Friday evening after a short three-hour drive from the Island to CT. After settling into our two-bedroom, oceanfront suite and marveling over the spacious layout and luxurious detail, we headed to the fitness center, which is well equipped with cardiovascular equipment, weight training machines, and free weights. An hour later, feeling tired but accomplished, we hit the Relaxation Area to enjoy some complimentary tea and fruit as the soft glow of the fireplace enveloped us. Still in our robes, we made our way back to our room and clinked wine glasses seated on our balcony while enjoying the calming ocean 100 | 25A www.25Amagazine.com

Relaxation view. We decided to order in and dined under the stars on house-made fresh pasta, seared Hawaiian bigeye tuna and Black Angus filet mignon. A few hours of enjoyable conversation and outdoor air later, we fell into a deep, satisfying slumber. Rising the next morning, we grabbed cappuccinos from the in-house Cappuccino Espresso Bar before walking over to the private beach, located mere steps from the resort. As we soaked up the late summer sunshine, we noticed a smattering of families, barbeques and picnics, as well as beach football and sandcastle enthusiasts all enjoying their choice of outdoor merriment. In addition to the beach, Water’s Edge has both indoor and outdoor pools, which allows guests to enjoy underwater fun all year long! Drying off after our dip, we decided to explore The Shops at Water’s Edge. These convenient onsite shopping options are especially useful for guests planning weddings or other events on the property. Shops include a bridal boutique, pearl shop, beauty and hair salon, and even an arcade for some good, clean, family fun. We capped our day with some pampering at the Spa at Water’s Edge with a Swedish massage.

It was the perfect ending to a weekend of rest, relaxation and rejuvenation. Our stay included only a fraction of all the amazing opportunities Water’s Edge Resort & Spa has to offer. If you feel like channeling your inner Phil Mickelson or Tiger Woods, Water’s Edge is located near some of Connecticut’s best and most prestigious golf courses, including Lyman Orchard, Cedar Ridge, Norwich and more. If you have little ones in tow, Old Saybrook Mini-Golf is conveniently located down the road and boasts its own lovely view of Long Island Sound. Take on the time-honored classic windmill obstacle and aim for that coveted hole-in-one! Is tennis more your style? If so, work on your backhand at Old Saybrook Tennis and Swim Club’s public tennis courts. Whether you are a beginner or have more advanced skills, nothing beats a singles or doubles tennis match on a crisp autumn day! If you are looking for a day trip, Water’s Edge is conveniently located near numerous museums, vineyards and historical societies. Or, if you want to participate in a unique and exceptionally fun sailing charter, deep-sea

fishing adventure, ferry trip or day of sailing, you are in luck! Choose from a comprehensive list of aquatic adventures for a day of more than just another day at the beach. Other local leisure activities include scenic walking tours (perfect to admire the changing foliage), attending a play, opera or cabaret show or even hitting the casino at Foxwoods or Mohegan Sun to win big! Whether you decide to stay onsite for rest and relaxation or discover local Connecticut treasures, Water’s Edge is the optimal vacation spot. To claim your own piece of the Connecticut shore, Water’s Edge offers an impressive collection of timeshares, equipped with generous amenities. Vacation Club members have use of resort facilities in addition to a week’s residence on-property, use of the health club, private beach, tennis courts, indoor and outdoor pools, whirlpools and steam and sauna rooms. During the summer months, daily activities are offered for children. I would recommend Water’s Edge Resort & Spa for a fun and easy getaway. This family friendly resort is the perfect place to wave goodbye to summer and hello to fall!

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25A Hot Pursuit

By Jason Feinberg

The new Lexus IS 250 & 350

Lexus has unveiled the new, redesigned IS for 2014 and 25A was fortunate to have the opportunity to take it for a spin. At first glance you can’t help but notice the enormous hourglass-shaped spindle grill, which certainly looks intimidating to its closest rivals. The IS has a much more aggressive styling that is simply fun to look at, and with its longer wheelbase, there’s plenty of interior room, also. The sleek design integrates its LED running lights into a separate housing in the front bumper below the headlights while sharp stealth-like lines wrap around the front of the car. “The design of the F Sport, the interpretation, is more exciting than any other car,” said Josh Weiss, sales manager at Rallye Lexus. “They got everything right. It leads me to believe they have the right engineers in the right places.” 102 | 25A www.25Amagazine.com

Being 6-foot tall and having a passion for driving, I find comfort to be equally as important as quality. In the IS, this isn’t a problem. In fact, due to the longer wheelbase, it isn’t a problem in the rear seating area either, which also now boasts 60/40 split folding seats. Everything is within comfortable reach of the driver, almost making it feel more like a cockpit than car. The integrated technology and instrument cluster is, in itself, a head-turner. The digital gauges are inspired by the Lexus LFA, a rare $300,000 exotic, and are now standard in the IS. Temperature is controlled by an electrostatic touch base control system, similar to swiping gracefully on an iPhone. The information system’s screen is cleverly set back into the dash to avoid any sun glare and includes some really cool features. If you opt for the subscription free navigation package, it includes Doppler Mapping

and weather, a standard rearview camera and Cache Radio. The last, I thought, is a really cool idea. If you’re not familiar with it, think of it as a DVR for your car. You’re listening to the news, a ballgame or just your favorite song and you get a phone call. Being a responsible driver, you use the integrated Bluetooth. At the same time, the radio is recording what you were listening to. When the call is over, you pick up where you left off. One thing that surprised me was the sound when I started the car. It was actually throaty, something that you would expect in a sports car but I wasn’t sure I should expect in a Lexus. This is due to an induction feature added to the car.

As we cruised around Glen Cove, Glen Head and Sea Cliff, I would be lying if I didn’t say I was tempted to push the pedal down around the rolling hills of the Gold Coast, but instead, I allowed the car to virtually glide itself. It was such a smooth, tight ride and the interior padding did an excellent job of dampening the outside noise. The IS handled in an untraditional way from a “normal” Lexus. It was a really great way. But don’t take my word for it; head over to Rallye Lexus in Glen Cove and check one out for yourself!

Highlights: Engines:

Transmission:

IS250: 2.5 liter V6 (204hp) IS350: 3.5 liter V6 (306hp)

IS 250-6 speed automatic IS 350-8 speed Direct Shift automatic

Drive mode select (depending on model) Eco, Normal, Sport, Sport S, Sport S+ September 2013 | 103

taste

25A End of

summer harvest

By Andrea Correale

Andrea Correale, President of Elegant Affairs is considered a celebrity caterer, event planner and entertaining expert. www.elegantaffairscaterers.com

hen September arrives, remember it is still summer, especially in the garden. There will be a surplus of basil, tomatoes, peppers, eggplant, zucchini and squash either in your yard or at the local farmer’s market. I love to take advantage at this time of year, as there are so many options to put the harvest to use. I am of Italian descent and relish the chance to revisit family end of summer favorites.  One option for tomatoes in particular is drying them in the oven – lowtemperature roasting intensifies their flavor. Serve them on their own, sprinkled with salt, with pasta, or in other dishes suitable for sun-dried tomatoes.  Another vintage favorite is to place them in 104 | 25A www.25Amagazine.com

mason jars filled with a good olive oil, garlic and Italian herbs. Give them away or serve at your next gathering. Toss together a mouth-watering warm veggie salad perfect for a main or side dish. Assemble some large colorful bowls and fill them with your favorite greens. Infuse your eggplant, squash and peppers with a balsamic drizzle before roasting them in the oven. I like to dress the greens with an oregano-thyme vinaigrette, place them in the bowls and layer the warm veggies on top. I finish with cracked pepper and a favorite ultra-delicate, smooth grated cheese – ricotta salata.

There’s always lots of basil at the end of the summer. Homemade pesto sauce is quick and easy to make and can even be frozen for future use. Traditional pesto is the combination of basil, pine nuts, garlic and Parmesan whipped into a creamy sauce in the food processor; it takes about two minutes to combine.   Pesto can be used on pasta, as a spread in an antipasto, on fish, chicken or even pizza. I like to make fresh pesto and freeze it in mini-ice cube trays. That way, I have ‘pesto bouillon’ at my fingertips for a sauce I might dream up down the road. If you choose not to freeze it, pesto will stay in the fridge quite a while as long as it’s well contained. Eggplant caponata is a winning end of summer dish. It’s a great appetizer and I personally prefer it chunky-style: healthy, tasty, rustic chunks of eggplant combined with roasted peppers, olives, onions and tomatoes. For an extra kick, add some red pepper flakes.

It’s September and the barbeque has not gone into storage yet. Why not make pizza on the grill? You can pick up some dough at the local pizzeria or supermarket and begin with a pesto base. Once grilled, add fresh marinated tomatoes and buffalo mozzarella balls with some sea salt and cracked pepper. Zucchini ribbons are easy to cut, especially if you have a mandolin (slicer) in your kitchen arsenal. I recommend it as it saves time and makes getting even more creative turnkey. Zucchini and other squash are easily transformed into pasta-style dishes with a homemade, low-fat Alfredo sauce. You can also serve it cold dressed with a light herb vinaigrette or with fresh squeezed lemon EVOO (extra virgin olive oil) and sea salt.   And last but not least, a gathering of friends or family for an annual tomato jarring is always an option ... something I enjoyed doing with my parents and grandparents as a child.

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25A Chi Dining Lounge Energizes with Asian and Italian Fare By Venus Quintana

s dining and nightlife scenes continue to converge, vibe dining spots are boldly taking dinner where it hasn’t gone before – to the dance floor. ‘Dining with a scene’ is a mouthful and, as buzzwords go, a little dated. The latest marketing maxim, ‘vibe dining,’ further blurs the line between dining and partying. Naturally, skeptics of the trend worry that all this emphasis on nightlife might take away from the dining experience but then again, anyone who has ever experienced Las Vegas can attest to the allure of its distinctive dining scenes, combining the restaurant and nightlife experience into one location. Chi Dining Lounge in Westbury has successfully cultivated this idea, artfully blending two concepts into one: the modern, eclectic dining spot and a chic lounge. The restaurant’s signature DNA includes an expansive patio replete with a waterfall, firepit and cabana-style covered seating, as well as an outdoor bar and lounge area. Opened in the spring of last year, this parking-lot-turned-oasis encompasses all the characteristics of vibe dining. Inside, the main dining area is framed with exposed brick walls and chocolate brown banquettes, seduced by sheer curtains and white cloth-covered tables. Chi (translating to ‘energy’ in Chinese) embraces a contemporary style of dining that is more fluid and less formatted than the traditional three-course model. Whether dining before, after, or in lieu of a nightlife experience, diners can expect a sensory immersion of exotic Asian hits, Italian favorites, imaginative cocktails, high-end service and mood-enhancing sounds set in a sexy atmosphere. 106 | 25A www.25Amagazine.com

Running the show at Chi is long-time industry veteran Robert Smythe, who worked alongside some of the most respected food and beverage operators throughout his 18-year career in Las Vegas. Robert’s impressive résumé includes Caesars Palace, with now famous celebrity Chef Laurent Tourndel, as well as Lutece Restaurant, with the original celebrity Chef Andre Soltner at the Venetian Resort. Robert has also spent many years managing events at Long Island’s famous GLO nightclub. Today, working together with owner Joe Stasi of Stasi Brothers, Robert has found the perfect spot to showcase his skills and experience. With a deep desire to connect with people and provide an unforgettable experience to his guests, Robert has infused Chi with vibrancy and elegance. Chi offers guests a multitude of experiences. Monday through Thursday is Happy Hour from 5-7 pm; select appetizers and drinks are halfprice. Thursday night is Ladies Night from 8-11 pm and Friday night is Corporate Happy Hour from 5-7 pm. The live DJ spins tunes Thursday through Saturday and the patio dining and bar is available, weather permitting. Whatever the occasion, Robert will treat you like family and assure that you have the night of your life.

103 Post Avenue Westbury, NY 11590 516-385-3795 www.chidininglounge.com

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taste

25A Haiku Asian Bistro Shines Like a Diamond in Woodbury By Venus Quintana

estled in an obscure corner of the Woodbury Town Plaza shopping center is a culinary jewel of the Far East. Opened in 2008, Haiku Asian Bistro is a popular destination for pan-Asian enthusiasts and the only Long Island location of the Haiku restaurant group that currently owns five sister restaurants in upstate New York. My travels led me to the small storefront, almost hidden within a multitude of other dining spots in what I discovered are two side-by-side shopping centers on Jericho Turnpike. My early Wednesday night visit was met with a bustling wait staff, early-bird diners and take-out frenzy; an evident sign of Haikuâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s incredible success. I was greeted by restaurant manager Alex Hoo, a gregarious, cheerful man who gave us the best seats in the house. Haiku is a real beauty. The dining room envelopes guests with a calm and soothing dĂŠcor, complete with an arresting stone wall set be-

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hind a gleaming sushi bar. A trickle of water flows over the river stones to create the ultimate Zen experience. Dark wooden tables are set in clean linearity against neutral walls adorned with decorative mirrors. The serene setting pleases the eye, as does the cuisine, with dishes that are dynamic and vibrant. The menu showcases a variety of Chinese, Japanese, Thai and Malaysian delights that are artfully and skillfully presented. With so many choices, I had to hold back from ordering the whole menu! We started with some incredible sushi. The Tuna Lover Roll was a delightful balance of spicy crunchy tuna and cucumber covered with pepper tuna, avocado and red tobika. The Iron Man Roll ran away with first prize: orange soy paper wrapped around smoked salmon, eel and avo, topped with spicy mayo and salmon fish roe. The gyoza was the best I have ever had! These pan-fried dumplings were juicy

creations with pork fillings inside paper-thin wrappers. A sashimi appetizer impressed with a sampler of five assorted fish that were luminous and impeccably fresh. Entrees dazzled with sesame chicken, garnished with shards of emerald-green asparagus that complemented the crunchy sweet-spicy meat. Korean BBQ short ribs were nothing short of magnificent. These boneless pieces of juicy beef were marinated and served over lettuce with a homemade duck sauce on the side. I was relieved to learn that Haiku is not known for its dessert so we opted for some fresh air and a long walk instead. In any case, I was treated to a most amazing taste of the Far East and will surely be coming back for seconds. 8025 Jericho Turnpike Woodbury, NY 11797 (Woodbury Town Plaza) 516-584-6782 www.haikuasianbistro.com. Open seven days for lunch and dinner

The

H A M P TO N S A N D N O RT H S H O R E C AT E R E R

SEXY SUMMER PARTIES SINCE 1987 The Hamptons 631.537.1926 NYC 212.924.6500 Locust Valley 516.671.2127 robbinswolfe.com

artform

25A Black & White & Shades of gray By Diana Pinck

(Clockwise from right) Francis of the City 30x40”. Wild horses 40x21 3/4”. Coke Not Pepsi 18.5 x 11”.

ohn D. Herz had always enjoyed drawing and doodling, yet he was not aware that he was an uncommonly gifted artist until his 58th birthday. At the time, John was in a very stressful business in the entertainment industry. Hoping that painting and drawing would offer him some relaxation, his lovely wife Nancy took him to an art supply store for his birthday and encouraged him to pick out whatever he liked. Neither Nancy nor John could have foreseen

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that this simple gesture would change their lives forever. On a subsequent trip to the Bahamas, John took countless photographs of people he encountered on the streets, markets and docks – regular, plain folk as well as homeless people and beggars. Back on Long Island, John decided that he wanted to take the time and render some of these photographs in graphite pencil. It quickly became apparent

to John that somehow, something in him had shifted. “I received this gift! I never took any art classes. I had not drawn anything in so long and never seriously, yet suddenly my paintings were completely different.” John discovered that he had the uncanny ability to translate colored photographs into black and white drawings and perhaps more importantly, that he was able to bring forth the deep humanity of his subjects in his drawings.

Born Free 60x28”

“I received this gift. It is very important for me to give back.” It did not take John long to decide that art was the path he had to choose. He gave up his business and devoted himself 100 percent to drawing. In the seven years since, John has become a renowned graphite artist. He still takes time to paint the disenfranchised, but he is also well known for portraying innumerable athletes and celebrities. Often in conjunction with their respective charities, John will donate numbered prints to their causes. “I think it is very important to give back,” he says. John also paints still lifes that are beautiful and very touching and he has recently started to draw

horses. No matter what the subject matter is, John’s greatest gift is to evoke compassion and emotion in his viewer. At 58, John embarked upon this unbelievable journey. He is a firm believer and living proof that it is never too late to do what you love in life. If you have true passion and devotion, go for it. You never know where it will lead you. To see more of John’s work or to contact the artist, visit www.JohnDHerz.com or call 954.464.8499.

Eli Manning 40 x 32”.

The Domino Effect 37 3/4 x 25”.

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25A Photographer Drew Doggett &

The Horses of Sable Island By Diana Pinck

hotographer Drew Doggett came to New York straight out of college where he studied fashion photography. He had the great fortune to apprentice and work with renowned fashion photographer Steven Klein and portrait photographer Mark Selinger. In 2009, Drew decided it was time to launch his own career in fine art photography. For his body of work, he decided to focus on documenting the beauty and inhabitants of remote and exotic locations like Nepal, Ethiopia, and most recently, Sable Island. After his trip to Nepal in 2009, Drew founded Art Cares, a 10-year program that donates the proceeds of his book Slow Road to China, and art prints from the book, to charities in that area. His stunning collection from Ethiopia titled Omo: Expressions of a People had the great honor of being accepted into the permanent archives of the Smithsonian Museum in 2012. Then Drew was off to spend time on the isolated Sable Island, which lies off of the coast of Nova Scotia, to capture the rugged beauty of the terrain and the wild horses that have inhabited it for more than two centuries. In the past, Sable Island was often referred to as ‘Shipwreck Island’ or ‘The Graveyard of the Atlantic,’ because over 350 ships are documented to have crashed on its uninviting shores. It is believed that the horses on the island are descendants of horses that managed to swim to safety. Thriving in this natural habitat, the horses have no predators and have evolved into a distinct, strong breed marked by their beautiful shaggy manes.

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“I remember walking through the fog for hours and then suddenly, like an apparition from another time, the horses would appear in front of me.” Thick patches of fog cover Sable Island for more than 250 days of the year, and Drew recalls sometimes walking through the fog for hours before hearing the hoofs of the horses pounding toward him from a distance. Suddenly they would emerge out of the fog, like apparitions from another time, he said. Drew’s extraordinary black and white photos manage to capture the beauty and strength of

the horses, their relationship to each other, and the stark land that they inhabit. Drew’s current exhibit, Discovering the Horses of Sable Island, will be on display at Sylvester & Co in Amagansett through September 30. He is already getting ready for his next collections, one about the Tuareg people of the Sahara Desert, and the other about racing sailboats in

Newport, Rhode Island and the British Virgin Islands. I cannot wait to see where this talented young photographer will take us next. To see more photographs by Drew Doggett, visit www.drewdoggett.com or see his exhibit at Sylvester & Co, 154 Main Street, Amagansett, NY (www.sylvesterathome.com; 631.267.9777). September 2013 | 113

THE

25ALIST

by Christopher Robbins with additional photos by PATRICK MCMULLAN, ROB RICH, nicholas provost and DENNIS LEON

Bloomfield-mullet birthday

The summer season out east in the Hamptons saw a constant flurry of interesting events. The mid-season Hamptons recap starts right now: When Countess LuAnn de Lessups arrived wheeling in her birthday present (a shiny, lemon yellow bicycle), that’s when the party jumped into high gear (pun intended!). And then, in walked Alec Baldwin with his wife Hilaria, and then Food Network star Giada De Laurentis, and then ultra-celebrity chef Bobby Flay, and then cookbook author Katie Lee, and then producer Darren Star (Sex in the City, et al…), and then SoulCycle’s Stacey Griffith, and then Donny Deutsch, and then Fern Mallis, and then Rory Tahari and then … well, about 100 more to toast uber-William Morris Entertainment agent Mark Mullet on his 30th birthday; the whole group artfully assembled by good friend Keith Bloomfield! 114 | 25A www.25Amagazine.com

After nibbling on Lavender and Fennel Pollen Crusted Yellowfin Tuna, Fresh Fig Brulee with Smoked LI Duck, and individual, little Nacho Towers of Tostada Chips layered with Chili, Cheese and Siracha, not to mention Robbins Wolfe’s signature, if not legendary, Parmesan Cheese Straws, guests walked out onto the driveway where they were greeted by the oh-so-cool Rolling in the Dough Pizza Truck – that insanely fun antique truck that’s … yes, you guessed it … a rolling pizza parlor! Not only is the truck way cool in how the guys ‘unfold’ the truck to create the ‘parlor,’ but the endless variety of pizzas served is impressive! And in everyone’s glass was lip-smacking homemade Sweet’tauk’s Ginger Lemonade or Watermelon-Basil refreshers spiked with Deleon tequila or Svedka vodka!! After dinner everyone danced around the pool to the very hip and now sounds from DJ C Wonder long into the night!

Not far from chez Mullet-Bloomfield is the spectacular home, Ashgrove Farm, of Anne Hearst and Jay McInerney, who opened their doors and grounds for the kickoff reception benefiting the Alzheimer’s Association’s Rita Hayworth Gala, which takes place every fall in NYC, this year on October 22 at the Waldorf Astoria. And as I’m sure you can imagine, if names like Anne Hearst and Jay McInerney are hosting a soirée, pillars of high society will follow. And they did, including Ms. Hayworth’s daughter and founder of the gala, Princess Yasmin Aga Khan, Nina Griscom and Leonel Piraino, designer Nicole Miller and husband Kim Taipale, Nicole Sexton (who’s chairing this year’s gala), Sondra McConnell (who hosted the Animal Rescue Fund Gala earlier in the summer at her lovely Southampton manse), Lucia Hwong Gordon, Patty Raynes, Franziska Countess Fugger von Babbenhausen, Sharon Bush (she’s the former sister-in-law of the US President) with daughter Lauren Bush

Lauren and husband David Lauren (he is, of course, Ralph’s son), art legend Robert Wilson, Francine LeFrak and Rick Freiberg, Alexandra Lebenthal, Tatiana and Campion Platt, Muni Sassoli de Bianchi de Medici, Blaise LaBriola, Chele Chiavacci, Debbie Bancroft, Cornelia Bregman, Somers and Jonathan Farkas, PR wiz Alison Mazzola, Dana Hammond Stubgen, Audrey Gruss (who gave $5 million to Southampton Hospital), society scribe R. Couri Hay, Jean Shafiroff (who chaired the Southampton Hospital Gala), Tracy and Jay Snyder, Margo and Jimmy Nederlander, Lady Liliana Cavendish, NYC Mayoral candidate John Catsimatidis with wife Margo and daughter Andrea Catsimatidis Cox with husband Christopher Nixon Cox (he’s the grandson of another former US President), and THE LIST goes on, and on, and on for another 130 names or so!

The rita hayworth gala hamptons kick-off reception (top row left to right) Jay Snyder, Jay McInerney, Robert Zimmerman; Nicole Sexton, Lauren Bush Lauren, David Lauren; Basil Zirinis, Sandra McConnell, Tatiana Platt, Campion Platt; Margo Catsimatidis, John Catsimatidis, Andrea Catsimatidis Cox, Christopher Nixon Cox (bottom row left to right) Alexandra Lebenthal, Nicole Sexton, Somers Farkas, Princess Yasmin Aga Khan, Anne Hearst McInerney, Robin Meltzer; Sharon Bush, Louise Kornfeld, Liliana Cavendish, Anne Hearst McInerney, Michel Piranesi, Ashley Raynes, Patty Raynes, Nina Griscom; Cornelia Bregman, Sharon Bush, James Signorelli, Princess Yasmin Aga Khan, Gary Fisketjon, Blaise Labriola, Alison Mazzola

September 2013 | 115

THE

25ALIST

by Christopher Robbins with additional photos by PATRICK MCMULLAN, ROB RICH, nicholas provost and DENNIS LEON

Raynham Hall Museum at Aston Residence (top row left to right) Frank Olt, Tess Mullarkey, Susan Slater, and Joyce Bullen Gay; Franklin Hill Perrell, Emily Franchina Perrell, Patsy Sands, Joan Shepard, Ed Mohlenhoff; Allison Aston, Muffie Aston, Valerie Aston (bottom row left to right) Muffie Potter Aston, Dr. Sherrell J. Aston, with children Bracie and Ashleigh; Daughter-in-law Allison Aston and son Brad Aston; Courtney Collins and her grandmother Jeanette Bjorkland, Suzi and Dustin Chase, Alexandra and Howard Sutherland

Back in our neck of the beach, the Raynham Hall Museum threw their annual Garden Party at ‘Land’s End Manor,’ the magnificent Soundfront home of Muffie Potter Aston and Dr. Sherrell J. Aston, where guests toured the famous Frederick Law Olmsted-designed gardens and grounds of the extensive acreage that stretches down past centuries-old specimen trees to the beachfront in the distance. Taking in the vista and breathing in the floral-scented air were many of the actual Astons including Muffie and Sherrell, Allison and Jay, Valerie and Brad, and Wendie and Matt along with twins Bracie and Ashleigh as well as the many patrons of the museum, Maria Santoro and Jeffrey Bilhuber, Board of Trustee President John Collins with his children Courtney and Tyler, Meredith and Frank Olt, Tess Mullarkey, Senator Carl Marcellino, Liz and David McCreery, Tracy Dellomo and Cliff Packingham, Richard and Paula Weir, Liz and Dr. James Watson, Alex and Howard Sutherland, Emily Franchina and Franklin Hill Perrell, Janice and Hawley

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Vander Poel, Jeannette Bjorkland, Bruce Knecht, Cora and Clarence Michalis, Suzanne Dillenbeck, Edward Mohlenhoff, Rebecca and Charles Finelli, Liz and Larry Brown, Susie and Justin Chase, Harriet and Henry Clark, Dr. Kay Soto, Caroll Rotchford, Sara and Mason Power, Diana Collins and Townsend Weekes and more. When not nibbling on the delectable treats artfully prepared by Greenpear Catering, guests bid on silent auction items by local artists Frank Olt, Michael Goudket, Kirk Larsen and William Jonas. A perfect afternoon for a wonderful local museum! Well, what can I say; it’s just another few days in a life of Loving the Camera. If you have an event, benefit or social happening that you’d like considered for The 25A List, please let us know by emailing me, Society Editor Christopher Robbins at chris@robbinswolfe.com, or 25A Art Director Brooke Morgan at brooke@25amagazine.com

25aâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Polo event 25A magazine Hosts a Polo Event at the Meadowbrook Polo Club Photos by Paul Prince On Sunday, Aug.18, 25A magazine hosted a polo match, the Sport of Kings, at the Meadowbrook Polo Club, the oldest existing polo field in the country. The VIP tent was filled with delicious food, wine and champagne, and the day was reminiscent of yesteryear, with families enjoying the fierce competition of polo horses and stick and ball, a truly elegant affair to remember. There were more contemporary rides on the field with the addition of a couple of dozen exotic cars, including Lamborghinis, Ferraris, Porches, and even a Cobra, to mention just a few.

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College Preparatory ~ Grades 6-12 ~ Open House ~ Nov. 16, 9:30a-12:00p

Special thanks to the following sponsors: Meadowbrook Polo Club, Martino Auto Concepts, Ai Media, Exotics 4 Life, Serata, Carlyle on the Green, Black Tie Group Inc, Excelaire, LeSutra, Leone Homes, Mobile Sudz, Ferrari/Maserati, Empire State Wines, Deluxe Car Storage, Star Industries/ Georgi Vodka, Artaux Catering, Elite Tents, DJ Frankie

25a’s exotic car show... 25A magazine Hosted an Exotic Car Show at Martin Viette Nurseries Text & Photos by Diana Pinck Only the cars were hotter than the temperature on a July evening when auto enthusiasts and drivers of exotic luxury cars gathered for the 25A’s TOUR OF ELEGANCE on the great lawn of Martin Viette’s Nurseries in East Norwich. There were gorgeous vintage automobiles and killer sports cars to be admired. My personal favorite was the Lamborghini Art Car presented by Exotics4Life. This extraordinary and spectacular beauty was custom designed and finished by renaissance man Joe LaPadula from Martino Auto Concepts in Glen Cove and the artist Rashad Newsome. The car had just returned from New Orleans where it was exhibited at the New Orleans Museum of Art. Delectable tid-bits were catered by Elegant Affairs in Glen Cove and Serata Restaurant in Oyster Bay, and deliciously refreshing drinks were served by Le Sutra Liqueur. Le Sutra is a sparkling liqueur infused with premium vodka and a hint of white wine in four flavors. I loved the peach flavored Sutra on ice. Before the winners of the concours were announced our publisher Chase Backer and 25A magazine were honored and presented with a citation from Nassau County Executive Edward P. Mangano. Whereas Chase Backer and 25A magazine were recognized as an outstanding person and organization that contribute significantly to the enhancement of our region and residents. Finally the winners of the concours were presented with their honorary plaques. It was already getting dark when the cars started rolling out from Martin Viette onto 25A. Here a throng of teenage car paparazzi had gathered, enthusiastically getting video or one last pic of the automobiles, as they sped up and roared into the night, many heading to Serata restaurant for the afterparty. To find out more about Martino Auto Concepts and Exotics4Life or to see more pictures of hot cars visit these websites www.martinoautoconcepts. com and www.Exotics4Life.com. To purchase Le Sutra Liqueur go to www.drinklesutra.com and for Serata restaurant go to www.serata160.com or call 516-628-2800 for a reservation.

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...and the winners are...

Photos by Pamela Dolenqewicz

Best in Stock

Best in Show Best Custom

Best Paint

Special thanks to the following sponsors: Petals, Martino Auto Concepts, Elite Tents, Habberstadt, Ferrari, Ed Mangano, Marine Maxx, Serata September 2013 | 121

25a’s july/aug cover party 25A magazine’s July/Aug 2013 Cover Party at The Pine Hollow Country Club Photos by Paul Prince On Tuesday July 30, 25A hosted its July/August cover party at the Pine Hollow Country Club with special guest, cover model Consuelo Vanderbilt Costin. Prior to our cover shoot, while 25A was scouting for a location, we learned to our delight that the country club had been home to Consuelo Vanderbilt, great-granddaughter of Cornelius Vanderbilt and great-great aunt to our Ms. Costin. We, as well as Consuelo, were delighted to have her return to her roots. During the party, Consuelo took time to perform some of her original music for the guests, which was a delight for all and a highlight of the evening. Everyone enjoyed the outdoor veranda with wine provided by Empire State Cellars and then moved inside for some of Pine Hollow Country Club’s incredible food.

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Special thanks to the following sponsors: Jaimy Lynn Productions, Richie Hart

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JUNIOR POLO match Six-year-old Luci Scott on Lady Di

Meadowbrook Polo Club Hosts Junior Polo Match Text and Photos by Diana Pinck On a fabulous Sunday in early August some of the future polo players of the United States gathered at the prestigious Meadowbrook Polo Club in Old Westbury for an all-star day of competition. The games are organized across the country by the Polo Training Foundation and the winning all-star players compete in a culminating tournament. A fierce game was held between the Blue and White teams with Luis Rinaldini announcing the players and winners. The enjoyable morning ended with a delicious asado (Argentinian BBQ) prepared with care by James Muir of Artaux Catering in Glen Cove.

White Team (left to right): Vance Miller, Chase Schwartz, Vika Rinaldini, Vaughn Miller. Blue Team: Mariano Gonzales, Santino Magrini, Peter Manning, Kristos Magrini, Salvador Scott, Club Chairman Luis Rinaldini and Taffy. The four players holding the PTF banner will be playing in the All-Star Tournament.

All-star player Vika Rinaldini

The junior players put it all out on the field

Vaughn, Vance, Dena, Gigi, Vaughn Miller, Jr. and Lilly Kibler flew in from Dallas so that Vance and Vaughn Jr. could compete

James Muir from Artaux Catering prepared the delicious asado

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The teams with Meadowbrook Club manager and professional polo player Esteban Scott in center

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Serata soiree

Special thanks to the following sponsors: Petals, Richie Hart

25A magazine Hosts a summer soiree at Serata Photos by Paul Prince â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;The Hidden Pearl of Oyster Bayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; would be an apt description of Serata restaurant, a jewel nestled on the Gold Coast where the heart of the nightlife beats in a quiet town. The food is so delectable that the most discriminating epicure will leave both delighted and satisfied. Michael Bender is welcoming to all his patrons and extends his warmth with a kiss, a hug and a passion delivered as lovingly as the food he serves is prepared. And that love is reciprocated by the regulars, as well as first-time diners, who are often destined to become regulars. What a great idea Anthony and Mike had to open their doors and thank their patrons/friends with amazing food and drinks. We all had a great time! Thanks, Serata.

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American peace foundation

American Peace Prize Foundation Cocktail Party Text and Photos by Diana Pinck The setting sun beyond the marshes of Dr. Harvey Manes’ art-filled Westhampton home served as a beautiful backdrop to the American Peace Prize Foundation’s cocktail party and awards ceremony. The foundation, established by Dr. Manes, supports and recognizes organizations and individuals that help keep peace in the United States with community services and programs in the areas of health, education, community safety and the fight against poverty. Among this year’s recipients are the Suffolk County Crime Stoppers, the Guardian Angels and New Jersey Housewife Kim DePaola.

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