An Exclusively Diamonds Publication
from the publisher
Welcome.
Greetings, It is with great joy that we bring you LX Mankato. This issue features two beautiful photo editorials. “Winter Wonderland’s” characters take you through a day of what happens in an enchanted woodland as the snow is freshly falling. “The Fairy Tales of Die Gebrüder Grimm” (The Brothers Grimm) celebrates the 200th anniversary of the fairy tales by brothers Jacob and Wilhelm Grimm, whose collection of “Children’s and Household Tales” has inspired many of the modern day fairytales that we still celebrate today. This editorial features beautiful artwork and photos created by various artisans from around the world paired with translated excerpts from the original 1812, “Kinder und Hausmärchen.” Also in this issue, we are excited to feature our Greater Mankato community and its success in “Big City Playing Small” and the highly anticipated Kiwanis Holiday Lights Display event happening later this month. “Doubly Decadent”, written by renowned chef, Mary Cech, gives some great wine and dessert pairing advice and features a yummy recipe for your indulgence. We enjoy seeing you each time you visit us and we look forward to hearing your stories and being part of your life’s special moments. Our promise is to provide you with a legendary experience every time you visit. We will continue to strive for cutting-edge fashion in our jewelry while maintaining the high quality you have been accustomed to receiving. Above all, you are very important to us and we treasure your friendship and loyalty. Please enjoy this issue of LX Mankato. Blessings, Exclusively Diamonds 4
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Features
inside
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Fashion 29 Runway Report: Women's 55 Runway Report: Men's Jewelry 11 Simon G. 36 Gift Guide Community 15 Big City Playing Small 64 A Brighter Holiday Season
Photography 22 Fairy Tales of Die Gebr端der Grimm
Big City Playing Small
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Fairy Tales of Die Gebr端der Grimm
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43 Winter Wonderland
Lifestyle 60 Ultime Auto Italiane Travel 19 A Gem in the Andaman Sea
Libation 52 Doubly Decadent
Winter Wonderland
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Doubly Decadent: The pairing of Desserts and Sweet Wine
36 Exclusively Diamonds Gift Guide
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cover on on thethe cover
Publisher SARAH PERSON Associate Publisher BRIANA WORKE Editor JON ROBERTS Art Director CHELSIE ROBERTS On the cover is an image from LX’s “Winter Wonderland” photo editorial with model featuring jewelry by Tacori.
Senior Graphic Designer ANGIE HALTER
The set, inspired and photographed by LX Art Director, Chelsie Roberts, has a Russian woodland feel and was built indoors on a South Dakota college campus by LX team members. Featuring models of all ages wearing beautiful branded jewelry, the shoot included 120 gallons of faux snow, 35 plus trees, a velvet swing and completed with an ice skating pond. Chelsie says “I was inspired by Russian landscape and architecture, especially castles and churches.”
Project Coordinator NICOLE HIGGINS
LX: a coffeetable magazine LX® Magazine is published by LX Publications, LLC, 500 N. Michigan Avenue, Ste. 300, Chicago, Illinois 60611. LX® accepts no responsibility for unsolicited manuscripts and or photographs and assumes no liability for products or services advertised herein. LX® reserves the right to edit, rewrite, refuse or reuse material, is not responsible for errors or omissions and may feature the same content on lxmagazine.com, as well as other mediums for any and all purposes. Copyright © 2012 LX Publications LLC. All rights reserved. The entire contents of LX® are protected by copyright© and may not be reproduced without the expressed written consent of the publisher. Reproduction in whole or in part or storage in any data retrieval system or any transmission by any means therefrom without prior written permission is prohibited. LX® and LX® Magazine are trademarks™ of LX Publications, LLC. 8
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Open Editorial
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the beauty & detail of
Simon G. is a family owned and operated manufacturing jewelry designer in its 32nd year of business. Noted for staying ahead of the curve in terms of design, Simon G. designs have won numerous awards and are recognized by their incorporation of various precious metals combined with natural fancy colored diamonds. In a survey conducted by renowned industry publication “JCK”, Simon G. was named the fourth best selling bridal brand and sixth most requested bridal brand. Simon G. has created a reputation for producing an extremely well-crafted product that appeals to the eye and budget of most jewelry consumers. Simon Ghanimian, founder of Simon G., remains extremely active in the company. He continues to oversee the day-to-day operations at the company’s Glendale, CA headquarters and travels the globe buying the world’s top material and machines. He also remains the company’s head designer and key decision maker. “Designing jewelry is an all consuming passion. It is my hobby. It’s my life.” To fully understand and appreciate the beauty and the detail of Simon G. jewelry, it is essential to be familiar with the passion to design and the desire to create that consumes Simon. In the Armenian culture of Simon’s childhood, every young man learned that you never go hungry in life if you develop and possess a skill to create, build and fix things with your hands. Simon’s parents instilled three lasting values - first, make each piece with the same love and pride as if you were making it for yourself. Second, make it to be enjoyed by future generations, withstanding the test of time. You are not simply making jewelry; you are creating a lasting legacy. Finally, always possess the humble heart of a servant. After all, the receiving is in the giving. It is against this backdrop of old-world tradition and the pursuit of perfection that Simon G. built one of today’s leading fine jewelry brands. The pride of artisanship sells the first piece and the pride of ownership keeps the customer wanting to collect more. In Simon G.’s modern workshops, some of the most innovative designs are born and then developed into superbly crafted pieces of jewelry.
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By Briana Worke
If you wander through Greater Mankato and invest time in the community there is a powerful energy and positive trend that encompasses the area. Business continues to thrive in a tight economy. Entertainment thrives as people seek outlets to enjoy life. Neighbors know their neighbors and help them out. This is not taken from the set of a Hollywood movie or pages from the imagination of a writer. It’s the heritage and home-grown feel that allow Greater Mankato to be a big city that plays small. Recently Greater Mankato was named 11th in the nation on the “Forbes 2012 list of Best Small Places for Business and Careers� among metropolitan areas having populations less than 250,000. Up 14 spots from 2011, Forbes considers 12 metrics relating to job growth (past and projected), costs (business and living), income growth over the past five years, educational attainment and projected economic growth through 2014. Forbes also factors in quality of life issues like crime rates, cultural and recreational opportunities and net migration patterns. Lastly they include the number of highly ranked colleges in an area. Forbes gives the most weight to business costs and educational attainment in the overall ranking. Many may wonder why Greater Mankato would rank 11th out of every other metropolitan area in the USA with a population of less than 250,000. The explanation given by Greater Mankato President & CEO, Jonathan Zierdt, is pretty simple; talent, supply chain and economic diversity.
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Talent It’s been studied and analyzed that people will choose the community in which they want to build their lives and then decide their careers. The job is a detail in the community where they establish their roots. Greater Mankato hosts 25,000 students each year as they attend one of the area’s five higher education institutes. This abundance of new and renewing talent is the key to maintaining the value of employees, employers and residents of Greater Mankato. Students pick up on that community feel and heritage almost instantly. A survey taken a few years ago showed that 50 percent of students have a desire to stay in Greater Mankato after they complete college. Twenty percent do stay and find success with the economic opportunities that are provided. One might argue that we don’t have the jobs to support the graduating talent, but that’s not the case. The community is continuing to increase its presence as a marketplace and puts itself in front of students to showcase opportunities. With Greater Mankato, the glitz of a “big city” might not always be evident. Graduated students might feel the need to go to a big city like New York or Chicago and tackle a career with a well known corporation. However, most studies show that people will end up 1 – 1 ½ hours away from where they grew up. Greater Mankato has opportunities and employers that do business all over the world and are constantly looking for talented employees and leaders. Talent is the new commodity to growing communities and Greater Mankato continues to seek new opportunities and form relationships with young professionals to support their needs and allow them to stay in the community.
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Supply Chain No community or country will survive on a service economy only. Greater Mankato has an abundance of suppliers and complementary industries with a particularly strong presence in metal manufacturing and fabrication, power generation manufacturing, electronic manufacturing services, agriculture and food processing, renewable energy and printing and warehouse distributions. The key to Greater Mankato’s supply chain success is all about location and making products. As local companies seek needed products for their businesses and Greater Mankato has companies that make their needed products, the two businesses can sit down and discuss business because of close proximity. They can redesign parts and products, save on transit costs and support one another economically rather than seeking out a company that is thousands of miles away or in another country. Greater Mankato's supply chain is strong and as a community we also produce for companies around the world, supplying the talent with their livelihood and creating economic diversity in the marketplace. Economic Diversity When the economy is broken down into categories within Greater Mankato, the diversity is what creates the stability for the community. There isn’t one industry or sector that carries the weight while others support. In having over 18 sectors, there is a tie for the number one sector at 17-18%. Manufacturing and health care are leaders in Greater Mankato for creating diversity and offering products and services for residents as well as our nation and world. Education comes www.lxmagazine.com
third at 9%. With over 50% of Greater Mankato's economy being driven by goods production, health care services and education; there are deep roots and diversity that allow a strong supply chain run by talented people to make Greater Mankato a success.
. . . e c n a l g at a
“The diversity of this marketplace is astounding when compared to any other marketplace,” said Zierdt. What does that mean for jobs? In July 2012, Greater Mankato had a gain of 1,400+ jobs year over year and 1,000 jobs month over month. The recent trend is that no single industry is responsible for this positive job growth. Diversity creates stability and it’s better for all businesses to allow many companies to add employees a little at a time to model steady growth. “This data continues to validate the strength of our marketplace and speaks volumes about the vitality of our employers,” said Zierdt. “The Greater Mankato region has had strong performance during the past couple of years, and the latest jobs data, along with other statistics and ratings, reaffirm our positive position.” Having exceptional talent, a strong supply chain and diversity are all important factors in making Greater Mankato a desired location. Another very important asset to this community is home-grown employers. Businesses are locally owned and operated and include generational, family operations. Entrepreneurs invest in the community, grow their businesses and build on a solid foundation to contribute to the supply chain and diversity. A strong business community gives people value and allows the community to grow, offering every opportunity that is desired. Awards have been handed out to Greater Mankato for everything from “Top 25% in the Nation for Job Growth” to “America’s Promise Top 100 Communities for Young People”, to 15th in the Nation on the 2010 Forbes list of “Best Places to Raise a Family.” However these awards are not by accident. A consistent performance from Greater Mankato is what makes our region so attractive. Being recognized once as a job well done is noteworthy. Being recognized on a regular basis for a wide variety of strengths gives a community proactive growth and success. From young professionals to young families, empty nesters, active retirees and everything in between, Greater Mankato provides value, opportunity and quality of life. It’s a thriving community that is modeling itself after a big city, but has found an abundance of success in playing small. www.lxmagazine.com
Mankato-North Mankato, MN Metropolitan Statistical Area Population: 97,300 Major Industries: Health Care, Technology Gross Metro Product: $5.2B Median Household Income: $50,189 Median Home Price: $122,400 Job Growth (2011): 2.1% Unemployment: 4.7% Cost of Living: 10.8% below national average College Attainment: 31.1% Net Migration (2011): 180 Information provided by Forbes. For more information visit www.forbes.com/places/mn/mankato/ 17
Sri Panwa
in the
THAILAND
Andaman Sea It is easy to see why Phuket attracts more than 5 million tourists a year. This beautiful Thai island can boast some of the world’s finest beaches, as well as a rich and diverse culture, fascinating history, a vibrant culinary scene and a throbbing nightlife. This island really looks after its tourists and whatever kind of vacation you want, you can have it in Phuket—the majority of visitors descend on the resorts on the west of the island, such as the throbbing hub of Patong Beach, where the party keeps going 24/7 and the streets teem with life. However, those who want a more tranquil trip can find it on the much quieter north, south and east coasts, where it is still possible to find hidden coves and bays, or on the largely undeveloped islands that lie just offshore, such as Kao Yao Yai and Kao Yao Noi. Phuket is also a magnet for divers, thanks to some of the best dive sites in the world and a magnificent marine environment that is teeming with life. Phuket has to be experienced but beware—once you have been there it will draw you back, again and again and again…
ANDAMAN SEA
By Martin Sayers Bangkok
Phuket
FOUR OF THE BEST LUXURY HOTELS IN PHUKET Aleenta Set on the spotless sands of Natai Beach to the north of Phuket, Aleenta is somewhat isolated by Phuket standards, with just one other hotel within a five mile radius and few restaurants or bars. Yet it is this tranquillity that is one of the hotel’s greatest assets—Natai is a protected beach and you will never see great lines of sun loungers, just miles and miles of golden sands. Also, unusual for the west coast of Phuket, there is no road between the hotel and the water, meaning that the view from your room is an uninterrupted panorama across the sparkling brilliance of the Andaman Sea. The hotel prides itself on being a home away from home and with three staff to every room, all your needs are taken care of quickly and efficiently. Accommodation is sumptuous and each room and villa has access to either a private or shared swimming pool, while the hotel also boasts one of the best Spas on the island.
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Aleenta Villa
The Pavilions Ocean View Villa
The Pavillions This upscale pool villa resort on lovely Bang Tao beach is setting a new standard for luxury accommodation in Phuket. Each and every villa offers either a mountain or ocean view and comes complete with its own plunge pool, with massages available poolside. Guests choosing to venture out of their accommodation can sample the delights on offer at the deservedly renowned Plantation Club bar and restaurant, which offers tropical cocktails and a mixture of Thai and Mediterranean-style dishes. Sri Panwa Sri Panwa opened in 2005 and is perched high on top of peaceful Cape Panwa in the southeast of the island, commanding breathtaking views of the surrounding islands and the Andaman Sea. The resort’s villas each come complete with their own infinity swimming pool and jet stream Jacuzzi system, and sit amongst lush tropical greenery 40-60 metres above sea level along the eastern and western ridges at the very tip of the cape. The hotel is popular with younger visitors and a party atmosphere prevails, with top global DJs often found spinning sets at the beach-side bar.
Sri Panwa Villas
Sala Phuket This seriously stylish new hotel opened in 2009 and offers a range of sensational pool villas. Occupying a tranquil position on one of Phuket’s most pristine stretches of beach, the living areas all have outdoor bathrooms and a vast range of facilities. A bar and beachside restaurant, renowned for its seafood, is also on offer and there are three large swimming pools that run alongside the beach. The hotel’s location in the Sirinat National Park means it is well away from the tourist hordes and there are miles of unspoiled beaches on the doorstep. Sala Phuket is also near the excellent and testing Blue Canyon Golf Course, rated as one of the best courses in Asia.
Sala Phuket Pool Villa
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FOUR THINGS YOU MUST DO WHEN VISITING PHUKET Take a trip to Phuket Town You won’t find many tourists in Phuket Town—it’s one of the least visited parts of the island but that means it offers a glimpse of real Thailand. Here you will find incredible Sino-Portuguese architecture, bustling markets, fabulous shops and some of the best and most authentic Thai food on the island.
Limestone Outcrop Phang Nga Bay
Go and see Big Buddha Set high on a hill in the south of the island, this gleaming white statue is an awe-inspiring sight and one of the biggest Buddhas in the world. It’s so large that you can actually see it from half of the island but it is still worth the trip up a winding country road to have a look up close. You can admire the stunning craftsmanship and pay your respects at the nearby shrine, but also enjoy the incredible view, with Phuket laid out below you in all its green, glittering glory. Have a ride on an elephant In the days of large-scale logging, elephants were used as working animals in Phuket, but now these same animals are kept active giving rides to tourists. There are many elephant trip providers on the island, but one of the best is Kok Chang Safari near Karon beach, which offers a lovely mountain trip through a rubber plantation, led by guides who clearly love and care for their animals. Take a boat to Phang Nga Bay Phang Nga Bay off the north-east end of the island has to be seen to be believed—this stunning area is dotted with craggy limestone outcrops and beautiful islands that are ringed by mangrove trees and perfect white beaches. Cruising around here is a perfect way to spend a day and depending on your preference you can travel by speed boat, cruise ship or Chinese junk, with private boat rides readily available. Trips generally stop off at various points, including a sea gypsy village and the outcrop famous as the assassin’s hide out in Bond movie The Man With The Golden Gun.
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Die FairyTales
Gebrüder Grimm of
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As a brisk, chill wind gusts and snowflakes fall to form drifty peaks this winter, you may want to snuggle up with your loved ones by the warm glow of a fire and tell a story. This year celebrates the 200th anniversary of The Brothers Grimm (German: Die Gebrűder Grimm) fairy tales. To celebrate, we have collected images and artwork from amazing talent, paired with translated excerpts from the original book, “Kinder- und Hausmärchen” (Children's and Household Tales) to inspire you as you orate about magical characters from far away lands, scary villians and princes and princesses that fell in love and lived happily ever after.
“Cinderella Tale” An artwork piece by Oona Patterson (Oonapatterson.com) A Sculpture crafted and cut in book and paper
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A
"Sisters" Photography and concept Kelly Ealy Models Laura Meyers and Adrienna Ealy Makup Laura New
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Aschenputtel Cinderella
“The king's son, who was waiting for her, took her by the hand and danced with her; and, when any one asked her to dance, he said as before, "This lady is dancing with me." When night came she wanted to go home; and the king's son went with her, but she sprang away from him all at once into the garden behind her father's house. In this garden stood a fine large pear-tree; and Cinderella jumped up into it without being seen. Then the king's son waited till her father came home, and said to him, "The unknown lady has slipped away, and I think she must have sprung into the pear-tree." The father ordered an axe to be brought, and they cut down the tree, but found no one upon it. And when they came back into the kitchen, there lay Cinderella in the ashes as usual; for she had slipped down on the other side of the tree, and carried her beautiful clothes back to the bird at the hazel-tree, and then put on her little old frock. The third day, when her father and mother and sisters were gone, she went again into the garden, and said—"Shake, shake, hazel-tree, gold and silver over me!" Then her kind friend the bird brought a dress still finer than the former one, and slippers which were all of gold; and the king's son danced with her alone, and when any one else asked her to dance, he said, "This lady is my partner." Now when night came she wanted to go home; and the king's son would go with her, but she managed to slip away from him, though in such a hurry that she dropped her left golden slipper upon the stairs. So the prince took the shoe, and went the next day to the king, his father, and said, ‘I will take for my wife the lady that this golden shoe fits.’ ”
"Cinderella" Photography, hair, makeup, styling Three Nails Photography
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Sneewittchen Little Snow-White
“And thus Snow-White lay for a long, long time, and still only her all that had happened, and said, ‘I love you better than all looked as though she were asleep; for she was even now as the world; come with me to my father's palace, and you shall white as snow, and as red as blood, and as black as ebony. At be my wife.’ Snow-White consented, and went home with the last a prince came and called at the dwarfs' house; and he saw prince; and everything was prepared with great pomp and Snow-White and read what was written in golden letters. Then splendor for their wedding. he offered the dwarfs money, and earnestly prayed them to let him take her away; but they said, ‘We will not part with her To the feast was invited, among the rest, Snow-White's old for all the gold in the world.’ At last, however, they had pity on enemy, the queen; and as she was dressing herself in fine, rich him, and gave him the coffin; but the moment he lifted it up to clothes, she looked in the glass and said, ‘Tell me, glass, tell me carry it home with him, the piece of apple fell from between true! Of all the ladies in the land, Who is fairest? tell me who?’ her lips, and Snow-White awoke, and exclaimed, ‘Where am I!’ And the glass answered, ‘Thou, lady, art the loveliest here, I And the prince answered, ‘Thou art safe with me.’ Then he told ween; But lovelier far is the new-made queen.’ ” This page: “Snow White” Photography Joshua Wilcoxon for Wilcoxon Photography Makeup/Hair Angelique Verver for Platinum Imagination
Opposite page: “Little Red Riding Hood” Photography Viona Ielegems Model Jolien Rosanne Post-production Chester Van Bommel “Rumpelstiltskin” An artwork piece by Mandy Smith (mandysmithwork.com) Dress created in baking paper and the wheel cardboard, Room and props all designed, created and painted by hand . Photography Leon Hendrickx Model Dorothy Bany Makeup Artist Anita Jolles
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Little Red-Cap “Many years ago there lived a dear little girl who was beloved by every one who knew her; but her grand-mother was so very fond of her that she never felt she could think and do enough to please this dear grand-daughter, and she presented the little girl with a red silk cap, which suited her so well, that she would never wear anything else, and so was called Little Red-Cap. One day Red-Cap's mother said to her, ‘Come, Red-Cap, here is a nice piece of meat, and a bottle of wine: take these to your grandmother; she is weak and ailing, and they will do her good. Be there before she gets up; go quietly and carefully.’ The grandmother lived far away in the wood, a long walk from the village, and as Little Red-Cap came among the trees she met a Wolf; but she did not know what a wicked animal it was, and so she was not at all frightened. ‘Good morning, Little Red-Cap,’ he said.”
National Content
Rotkäppchen Rumpelstilzchen Rumpelstiltskin
“There was once a poor Miller who had a beautiful daughter, and one day, having to go to speak with the King, he said, in order to make himself appear of consequence, that he had a daughter who could spin straw into gold. The King was very fond of gold, and thought to himself, ‘That is an art which would please me very well;’ and so he said to the Miller, ‘If your daughter is so very clever, bring her to the castle in the morning, and I will put her to the proof.’ ”
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Dornröschen Little Briar-Rose/Sleeping beauty
“After many, many years there came another king's son into that land, and an old man told him the story of the thicket of thorns, and how a beautiful palace stood behind it, in which was a wondrous princess, called Briar Rose, asleep with all her court. He told, too, how he had heard from his grandfather that many, many princes had come, and had tried to break through the thicket, but had stuck fast and died. Then the young prince said, ‘All this shall not frighten me; I will go and see Briar Rose.’ The old man tried to dissuade him, but he persisted in going. Now that very day the hundred years were completed; and as the prince came to the thicket he saw nothing but beautiful flowering shrubs, through which he passed with ease, and they closed after him as firm as ever. Then he came at last to the palace, and there in the yard lay the dogs asleep, and the horses in the stables, and on the roof sat the pigeons fast asleep with their heads under their wings; and when he came into the palace, the flies slept on the walls, and the cook in the kitchen was still holding up her hand as if she would beat the boy, and the maid sat with a black fowl in her hand ready to be plucked. Then he went on still further, and all was so still that he could hear every breath he drew; till at last he came to the old tower and opened the door of the little room in which Briar Rose was, and there she lay fast asleep, and looked so beautiful that he could not take his eyes off, and he stooped down and gave her a kiss. But the moment he kissed her she opened her eyes and awoke, and smiled upon him. Then they went out together, and presently the king and queen also awoke, and all the court, and they gazed on each other with great wonder. And the horses got up and shook themselves, and the dogs jumped about and barked; the pigeons took their heads from under their wings, and looked about and flew into the fields; the flies on the walls buzzed away; the fire in the kitchen blazed up and cooked the dinner, and the roast meat turned round again; the cook gave the boy the box on his ear so that he cried out, and the maid went on plucking the fowl.
National Content
And then was the wedding of the prince and Briar Rose celebrated, and they lived happily together all their lives.”
“Sleeping Beauty” Photography Viona Ielegems Model Jolien Rosanne Post-production Chester Van Bommel
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Designer Spotlight
Womens Fall 2012
Etro's New Bold Paisley Dream Godfrey Deeny
Brands always like to talk about respecting their DNA even as they subvert and reinvent them, and on Friday, Feb. 24, in Milan we saw a brilliant example of that whole concept at a thoroughly assured Fall 2012 collection by the house of Etro. Veronica Etro’s key obsession was paisley, the very fabric that is more associated with Etro than any other Continental luxury brand. And, talk about taking it somewhere new! The designer trimmed astrakhan jackets with a filigree of leather laser cut in the paisley style, or outlined the twisting shapes in velvet strips on a see-through mesh top. Etro also tapped into Italy’s biggest accessories trend for Fall 2012 - the curvy leather peplum belt, dissecting sleek leather jeans and bolero combinations, or adding oomph to slim dark cocktails. “I was thinking of costumes, especially 19th century costumes, and how Edwardian artists used color and shape in an elegant way. I
Designer Spotlight
wanted something dramatic,” says Etro. Though the label does not yet have the name recognition of, say, Armani or Prada, Etro now boasts the biggest show in Milan. Staged in a giant ice rink with bleacher seating, the show attracts nearly 2,000 fans and professionals. Each place holds a silk gift cushion - this season in paisley, of course.
Designer Spotlight
Etro’s finest moment was a series of curvy evening dresses made in panels of paisley and blocks of black. It could have looked hackneyed but it never did, because Signora Etro kept the right amount of wit and levity throughout - like using tentacles of paisley to keep a revealing mesh top modest. In a word, the show was a fine fashion moment, a splendid example of refreshing a house’s DNA and a great personal success of Etro’s.
Burberry
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John Galliano
Lanvin
Nicole Miller
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Make your holiday
WISHES COME TRUE
Sterling silver charms from $25
1660 Tullamore Street • Hilltop Mankato 507.345.1658 • ExclusivelyDiamonds.com
Gift Guide
TACORI 18K925 Sterling Lilac Blossom Amethyst Pendant $280 Sterling Lilac Blossom Amethyst Earring $320
TACORI 18K925 Sterling Lilac Blossom Amethyst Ring $770 Sterling Lilac Blossom Rose Amethyst Ring $750 18kt Yellow and Sterling Multi-strand Color Bracelet $970
TACORI 18kt Tacori Crescent Double Halo Engagement Ring* $5,650
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HEARTS ON FIRE 18KT Beloved Pendant starting at $1,850
HEARTS ON FIRE 18KT Sweet Dream Halo Pendant $4,990
HEARTS ON FIRE 18KT Sweet Dream Halo Earrings $7,500
HEARTS ON FIRE 18KT Beloved Earrings starting at $2,450
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HEARTS ON FIRE 18KT Fulfillment Earring starting at $2,450
HEARTS ON FIRE Platinum Transcend Dream Ring* $3,750
*center diamond not included
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BELLE ÉTOILE Belle Étoile Sterling and Enamel Joséphine Pendants $250 Belle Étoile Sterling and Enamel Joséphine Rings $250
BELLE ÉTOILE Belle Étoile Sterling and Enamel Joséphine Earrings $275
BELLE ÉTOILE Belle Étoile Sterling and Enamel Joséphine Bangle Bracelets $695
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SIMON G. 18kt Saturn White, Yellow and Rose Pendant $2,530 18kt Saturn White, Yellow and Rose Earrings $3,740
SIMON G. 18kt Paisley White, Yellow and Rose Pendant $3,960
SIMON G. 18kt Paisley White, Yellow and Rose Ring $4,620
CLASSIC Fancy Yellow and White Diamond Ring $59,000
CLASSIC Diamond Hoop Earrings $4,079
CLASSIC www.lxmagazine.com
Diamond Tennis Bracelet $18,699
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SIGNATURE COLLECTION 14kt Diamond Ring* $2,599 14kt Diamond Ring*$3,779
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CLASSIC Diamond Solitiare Earrings starting at $149
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PRIVATE COLLECTION OF SOUTHERN AFRICAN DIAMONDS
SIMON G.
14kt Alexis Diamond Earringst $1,660
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SYLVIE 18kt Diamond Ring*, part of the Fidelite Collection $3,589 18kt Diamond Ring*, part of the Romance Collection $2,299
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Photography Chelsie Roberts Models Mary Schleich James Graber Kat Stevens Jeremy Ray Smolik Laura Carlson Kim Rockman Photo Assistant Dan Thorston Makeup Artist Angie Wheeler Hair Stylist Jessica Lee
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Winter Wonderland
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oubly By Mar y C
ech,
t n e d a ec rt Cookbo
esse e Lover’s D in W e Th “ Author of
ok ”
You know your favorite dessert around the holidays. Memories on a chilly day of warm, spicy bundles of sliced apples encased in delicate puff pastry all baked to a golden brown, rich deep-dark and moist chocolate cake frosted with silky bittersweet chocolate or maybe a mouth tingling refreshing winter citrus lemon tart with rich butter pastry enjoyed after a heavy meal. Whatever your favorite holiday dessert may be, usually the decision is much easier to determine than your favorite sweet wine. As with all matters of taste — music, clothing, friends, — enjoyment of wine with friends and family is much more a matter of personal preference than of scientific calculation. You may very well already have some idea of the wines you prefer with traditional savory foods. Common wisdom dictates that white wines go best with light meats and fish for example, but you are on shakier terroir at the end of the meal when pairing desserts with sweet wines. Few guidelines exist for pairing sweet wines and desserts. Although without an instruction manual to help you choose and pair dessert wines with the appropriate dessert can prove overwhelming, it does free you of the burden of preconceived notions. No rules, no mistakes! There is only one rule when it comes to pairing desserts and sweet wines. “Eat what you like, drink what you enjoy with it.” With that in mind you can get started with two simple thoughts and several helpful sweet wine tips to assist you on your sweet pairing journey. 52
White Chocolate Parfait Photo © frankenyimages.com
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irst, sample, sample, sample! Since dessert wines contain a fair amount of sugar, alcohol and acidity acting as natural preservatives, storing them in the refrigerator after opening extends their shelf life a week or more and allows you to sample several wines later. When preparing a dessert, try it with a few different wines and observe how the dessert’s flavors are enhanced or masked by the wine. You can start determining your likes and dislikes.
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econdly, don’t be shy; get to know a local wine merchant. As they begin to know your particular tastes, you will be introduced to new wines to fit your palate. When “making the match” of dessert and sweet wine, I advise a few sweet wine tips, which I consider my Top 10 Sweet Wine Tips to get you started for this holiday season.
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weet sparkling wines are versatile, refreshing and a great way to celebrate any special occasion and holiday. They are perfect after a traditional holiday meal. They don’t overwhelm lighter desserts like orange citrus chiffon cake, but provide a welcome palate cleanser for richer desserts such as, pumpkin cheesecake. Fortified wines stand up well to rich desserts with deep flavors of toasted nuts, caramel, winter fruits, dried fruits, spice and chocolate. A tartlet of dried fruits, fresh apples, cinnamon and clove covered with butter streusel with Tawny Port can be a warming comfort on a cold evening.
y Y t T
ou should always enjoy what you taste. The definition of a good dessert wine is one you enjoy drinking alone first.
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ot all sweet wines and desserts need each other. Don’t over power either a wine or a dessert. Some wines are best when drank alone like Sauternes and Vintage Ports.
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et to know sweet wines. Taste them with simple desserts that don’t fight for your attention. Simple slices of fruit, pound cake or angel food cake can get you started. Here are some examples of some of my holiday favorites; Raspberry Baked Alaska has always signified “a special holiday occasion” to me. Engaging in lively conversation while watching mounds of showy meringue over ice cream or raspberry sorbet being flamed and browned tableside is doubly memorable around the holidays. A vintage, or LBV, port with berry flavors is a great complement to the raspberry sorbet. Plum Gazettes welcome a cooler season as plums bridge the end of summer and beginning of fall and the holiday season. Black Muscat would be a good sweet wine choice with these flaky pastries. By understanding sweet wine flavor characteristics and pairing suggestions you will be on your way this season to pairing your holiday dessert memories with your favorite holiday sweet wines for a double decadent taste experience.
Honeyed Fig and Hazelnut Tart
Photo © frankenyimages.com
he wine should be equal or slightly sweeter than the dessert. This is very important! The sweeter the dessert, the sweeter the wine, otherwise it will taste sour, tart or bitter.
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air wines that are high in acidity either with rich, creamy desserts like cinnamon rice pudding to cut their richness or with light, warm or chilled fall and winter fruit compotes for the holidays.
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omplement or gently contrast the dessert flavors with the wine flavors.
omplement the weight of the wine to the richness of the dessert. Light body wine with a light dessert or contrast with a rich creamy cheesecake.
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rice is no object! A typical serving of dessert wine is 3 ounces; therefore sweet wines can be easy on the pocketbook.
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iet is no problem as we watch the calorie consumption rise around holidays. Dessert wines contain no fat. Coupled with a modest serving of dessert, even dieters can enjoy them in moderation.
"Don’t over power either a wine or a dessert. Some wines 53 are best when drank alone."
R
R r
Making the Match: A vintage, or LBV, port
aspberry Baked Alaska
with berry flavors is a nice complement to the raspberry sorbet. I love Charles B. Mitchel Vineyards Cucamonga Valley Old vine Zinfandel Port (California).
3 large eggs 6 tablespoons sugar ½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract ž cup cake flour, sifted
2 pints raspberry sorbet 5 large egg whites 2/3 cup superfine or granulated sugar
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F and position a rack in the lower third of the oven. Butter the sides of a 9-inch round cake pan and dust with flour.
Place a generous scoop of sorbet atop each cake round. Transfer the sheet to the freezer until frozen solid, about an hour.
In a standing mixer fitted with the whisk attachment, beat the eggs and 6 tablespoons sugar at high speed until they are thick, pale, and tripled in volume, about 5 minutes. Use a hand whisk to gently but thoroughly fold in the vanilla and flour. Spread the batter evenly in the prepared pan and bake until the cake pulls away from the sides of the top and is golden brown, about 20 minutes. Cool the cake.
Beat the egg whites in a clean bowl at high speed until they are foamy. Gradually add the 2/3 cup of sugar. Beat until the meringue is smooth, glossy, and holds stiff peaks.
Run a knife around the edge of the cake to loosen and then invert onto a plate. Remove the parchment paper. With a long serrated knife, cut the cake horizontally into 2 layers. Place the layers on a flat surface and cut out 8 rounds using a 3-inch cutter. Arrange the rounds on the lined baking sheet.
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Remove the cake and sorbet rounds from the freezer. Working quickly spread the meringue over the top and sides of the sorbet and cake. Swirl the meringue in a decorative pattern. Return to the freezer until needed. Just before serving, preheat the oven to 500 degrees F and position a rack as low as possible. Quickly brown the meringue and serve immediately. Makes 8 servings. For more information about Mary's recipes visit marycech.com
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Mens
Designer Spotlight
National Content
Fall 2012
Haute Hotel & High Fashion Godfrey Deeny
This Fall season reigning heavyweight champion of Italian fashion Giorgio Armani, staged two runway shows, launched a new underwear campaign with singer Rihanna and welcomed guests into his newly-opened mega clean and opulent Armani Hotel Milano, his luxury inn’s first fashion season. The huge influence of Asian and Thirties elegance in this designer’s aesthetic was evident both in his
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hotel and on his runway, as the soft shouldered suits and non-colors of cement and slate of his latest show, echoed the curvy pre-war style sofas, desks and walls, as well as the understated hues of
Designer Spotlight
his classy high-tech home. Presented in Armani’s custom-made show theatre on Tuesday, Jan. 17, his fall 2012 menswear collection was more path-breaking than many recent shows – even containing some natty examples of a huge Milan trend, knitted trousers, though in this case, they were cut like tapered jogging pants, albeit with triple pleated pants. “Quite frankly, I feel more comfortable in large pants rather than tight ones. Everyone does. And comfort is an essential part of luxury,” Armani said. He also went outside the envelope with a new airy tweed, rejecting its rural tradition for a beautifully deconstructed silhouette, seen in a series of rather 56
magisterially suits. Hyper-thick felt wool used in casual double-breasted jackets and in audacious biker jackets meet cardigans, followed by a sextet of mannequins in rugged velour mountain jackets worn over Armani’s new ribbed cord jogging trousers were a testament to how this septuagenarian designer still keeps his ideas fresh.
Designer Spotlight
Two days before in Emporio Armani, his choice of tasseled, golfing loafers, waffle nylon mini jackets
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and dashing aviator in search of a party faded leather jackets in smoke gray and anthracite had
plenty of youthful elan too. Though the fashion pack will probably best remember this season for the designer’s hotel. “The hotel is very important. We have had an incredible echo from people and the media. They both found a scent of Armani in every speck of the place. The quality of materials and taste should help people understand the aesthetics I strongly believe in. I feel at ease there, like in my own home. Plus, you can see from the hotel that my clothes and the way I live have very similar aesthetics,” insisted Armani.
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Burberry
Hardy Amies
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ITALY’S MOST DESIRABLE EXOTIC CARS By Lyndon Conrad Bell When it comes to exotic cars, the Italians rule the collective imagination of the planet. The legendary names Ferrari, Lamborghini and Maserati evoke images of achingly beautiful, fast, exclusive, and infinitely desirable automobiles. However, these brands are about more than just cars. Each also harbors the heritage of success of some of the most determined entrepreneurs the world has ever known. Thus, when you buy one of these cars, you’re buying more than just a rolling piece of sculpture; you’re also buying a testament to the success of the legendary individuals whose names adorn them. These cars look like dreams come true because they are. The imaginations and the subsequent accomplishments of their manufacturers are the foundation upon which rests their ultimate allure. From the very origin of their companies, each of the people behind these cars set out to create the most extraordinary automobiles the world had ever witnessed. While the roots of Ferrari and Maserati can be traced directly to racing, the roots of perhaps the most extroverted car of them all actually goes back to…tractor manufacturing.
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LAMBORGHINI AVENTADOR Ferrucio Lamborghini was an Italian tractor manufacturer with an appreciation for the finer things in life. This included Ferrari sports cars, until one of his Ferraris suffered a recurring clutch problem. When Lamborghini confronted Enzo Ferrari about the situation and the paucity of customer service his dealer exhibited, Ferrari dismissed Lamborghini’s concerns as trivial. Offended by Ferrari’s perceived arrogance, Lamborghini decided to build his own sports car—one superior to Ferrari’s in every way. Today’s ultimate manifestation of that desire is the Lamborghini Aventador LP 700-4, one of the fastest road cars ever made. Boasting 700 horsepower, 507 foot-pounds of torque, and a curb weight of just over 3,400 pounds, the Lamborghini Aventador LP 700-4 will accelerate to 60 miles per hour in 2.5 seconds and will achieve a top speed of 217 miles per hour. Just as in the most highly advanced racing cars, the Aventador’s 6.5-liter V12 engine is positioned behind the driver—but in front of the rear
wheels—in what is known as a midengine configuration. This keeps as much of the car’s weight as possible centrally located, enabling outstanding agility and road holding. Further, equipped with all-wheel drive, the Aventador LP 700-4 is blessed with outstanding tractability. The Lamborghini uses a seven-speed automated manual transmission. Crafted almost entirely from carbon fiber, the Aventador is both lightweight and extremely strong. The entire passenger compartment of the Lamborghini is of one piece, and constructed of carbon fiber. Other key components of its aggressively angular body are made from aluminum; including the engine cover, the cargo cover, the doors, and the front fenders. While the look of the car is undeniably beautiful, each of its lines serves a function. The sharply honed front end, the extremely low roofline and the distinctive rear diffuser all permit the Lamborghini to slice through the air with minimal resistance, thus translating as much of the engine’s output as possible into forward motion. As have all of Lamborghini’s cars since the legendary Countach (koon TASH) of the 1970’s, the Aventador features upwardly opening doors for a bit of added drama. The air intakes on the Lamborghini open and close on demand, based upon the Aventador’s need for cooling air. This further improves the aerodynamics of the Lamborghini. The V12 engine, considered a work of art unto itself, is displayed beneath a transparent cover. As have been all of Lamborghini’s mid-engine supercars (save one, the Countach), the Aventador takes its name from the world of bullfighting. Exhibiting exceptional courage, tenacity and aggressiveness, Aventador was a particularly fierce fighting bull, which earned the respect of the bullfighting community in October of 1993 at the Zaragoza bullfighting arena in Madrid.
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MASERATI QUATTROPORTE GT S Società Anonima Officine Alfieri Maserati was a company of six of the seven Maserati brothers (Alfieri, Bindo, Carlo, Ernesto, Ettore and Mario) founded in 1914. Their number comprised of engineers, an artist, and a racing driver (Alfieri); the brothers began their careers building racing cars for one of the dominant auto manufacturers of their day. When that company suspended its racing operations, the brothers continued to build racing cars under their own name. Alfieri Maserati won the prestigious Targa Florio road race in 1926 in one of the first Maserati racing cars. While the first Maserati road car was built in 1947, the 1957 Maserati 3500 GT marked the transition of the company from a builder of racing cars to road car manufacturing. Rather than an out and out sports car, the 3500 GT was a grand touring car. While exciting to drive, the GT was also comfortable and practical for daily use. Today’s ultimate iteration of that ideal is the Maserati Quattroporte GT S. Fitted with a 433-horsepower V8 engine (designed by Ferrari engineers) capable of revving to 7,100 rpm and producing 362 foot-pounds of torque, the Maserati Quattroporte Sport GT S is without question Italy’s most fabulous luxury sedan. The engine’s exhaust system employs air valves that open to reduce backpressure in the exhaust; this has the effect of
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increasing the engine’s maximum power output, creating a throaty roar at low engine speeds, and unleashing the full symphonic sound of a highly tuned sports car at higher rpm. The ultimate iteration of the Maserati Quattroporte sedan for the enthusiastic driver, the Sport GT S, is poised some 10 mm lower on its suspension than the standard Quattroporte. This, in conjunction with the Maserati’s 20-inch wheels and low-profile performance tires, gives the GT S a more aggressive look, as well as superior handling. The palatial interior features performance-oriented touches such as aluminum pedals, shift paddles on the steering column, and perforated Alcantara upholstery. The fabric looks extraordinarily rich while simultaneously holding the Maserati’s fortunate occupants in place as the car engages in the type of automotive acrobatics sure to bring a smile to the face of any driving aficionado. The plush material is also employed on the door panels, the center front armrest, the steering wheel, and the gearshift knob. Possessing the graceful style, beauty and lavish accoutrements for which exotic Italian cars are well renowned, along with the sound and performance potential of a highly tuned sports car, the Quattroporte Sport GT S is practically unrivaled in the automotive industry.
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FERRARI F12BERLINETTA Every person with at least a passing interest in sports cars has heard the name Enzo Ferrari at some point. Interestingly though, Ferrari had very little interest in road going sports cars. He only turned to producing a line of street cars to generate income to support his racing activities. Which, by the way, have been consistently some of the most successful ever known. Further, Scuderia Ferrari is the only racing team to have competed in the Formula One World Championship continuously since its inception in 1950. José Froilán González gave the team its first F1 victory at the 1951 British Grand Prix. The current Ferrari racing team has won five of the eleven world Formula 1 championships decided so far in this century (2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, and 2007). Despite Enzo Ferrari’s reticence toward building street cars, the ones bearing his name are among the most highly coveted known to humankind. In fact, the name Ferrari is synonymous with the phrase “exotic sports car”. The 3,362-pound Ferrari F12berlinetta’s 6.3-liter V12 engine spins out 740 horsepower at 8,500 rpm and 508 foot-pounds of torque at 6,000 rpm. This makes the Berlinetta capable of running to 60 miles per hour in around three seconds and endows it
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with a top speed of 211 miles per hour. A rear-mounted, seven-speed, dual-clutch, automated manual transmission routes the engine’s output to the rear wheels. The F12berlinetta’s spaceframe chassis (a highly effective technique incorporated directly from racing car design) and its bodyshell use 12 different kinds of metal alloys for exceptional strength— coupled with light weight. Mounting the transmission at the rear of the Ferrari establishes its weight distribution at 46 percent front to 54 percent rear, despite the model being a front-engined car. This gives the F12berlinetta exceptional handling characteristics. Further, innovative aerodynamic techniques reduce the atmosphere’s drag on the Ferrari while simultaneously helping it stay glued to the road. The
F12berlinetta’s “Aero Bridge” uses the hood of the Ferrari to channel air flowing over the upper part of the Ferrari to its flanks where it interacts with the wake from the wheel wells. This simultaneously decreases drag and generates downforce. The Ferrari’s Active Brake Cooling system opens the guide vanes to the brakes’ cooling ducts only when needed—at high operating temperatures—to further reduce drag. The current pinnacle of the Ferrari GT and sports car lineup, the Ferrari F12berlinetta is the most powerful road going Ferrari ever built. This car, along with the Lamborghini Aventador LP700-4 and the Maserati Quattroporte Sport GT S, clearly reflect the intentions of their respective company’s founders and rank as the most desirable cars the world has ever known.
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A BRIGHTER By Briana Worke
Greater Mankato is about to get a lot brighter over the holiday season, all thanks to over 1 million LED lights in Sibley Park. Kiwanis Holiday Lights presented by the Mankato Area Foundation and CHS will be held from November 23 to December 31. The event was created to provide the community with a holiday celebration that builds on past traditions of displays such as Broad Street in Mankato and Mary Circle in North Mankato. Countless hours of planning and hundreds of volunteers will put on a spectacular display that can be viewed from a moving vehicle or on foot with heated shelters available for pedestrians. Beginning the Friday after Thanksgiving and running until New Year’s Eve, Sibley Park, one of Mankato’s assets, will be dressed with holiday lights along with countless other amenities for Southern Minnesota to enjoy. In the center of the park there will be a 40 foot tall display of lights along with a lit tunnel and animated lights that will be timed to music. In addition, a low frequency radio signal will allow those in their cars to hear narration and music during their driving tour. In preparation for the event, the City of Mankato will make available to the community heated restrooms and warming shelters. Concessions will be offered, live reindeer will be on display and Santa will be available for photos on several dates. A lighted Tribute to the Troops section will be featured and there will be a large area of trees decorated by non-profit organizations who participate as volunteers during the event. The Opening Ceremony will be Friday, November 23 starting at 5pm and will include the lighting ceremony and parade organized by the Mankato Area Young Professionals with floats from event sponsors and non-profit groups. The Mankato community as well as the entire region is invited to come celebrate the magic of the holiday season with a brilliant lights display, which is offered at no charge to anyone attending. However, non-perishable food and cash donations will be accepted each night. For more information on the event call 507-385-9129, visit www.kiwanisholidaylights.com or email info@kiwanisholidaylights.com.
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Friday, November 23rd – Monday, December 31st Sibley Park in Mankato
Hours:
Sunday – Thursday, 5– 9pm Friday & Saturday, 5–10pm Cost is free but visitors are encouraged to bring non-perishable food items for area and regional food shelters. Cash donations are also appreciated to fund improvements for next year’s lights display. In addition, a percentage of the profits will be given back to non-profit organizations that have donated their time at this year’s event.
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