LX Cincinnati Spring/Summer 2013

A Richter & Phillips Co. Publication

from the publisher

Welcome.

On March 20th, at 7:02 a.m., the sun crossed over the Earth’s equator, marking the Vernal Equinox; the first day of spring. In that moment, everything became new again.

The world was reborn, romance was revived and spirits emerged refreshed from winter hibernation. It’s time to celebrate the splendor of love and spirit of adventure that spring brings.

In this spring issue of LX Cincinnati, you’ll tour the four corners of the Earth with “Destination… I Do,” to the planet’s most fabulous wedding destinations. You’ll revel in the season’s most exquisite gowns, captured by the gifted photographer, Emily Gualdoni, in “Behind the Lens of Emily Gualdoni”.

Also in this issue, read about “The Best Beer in the World,” and how the ‘Westy’ tops the hype of world-renowned Belgian beers.

The spring runway report will keep you up to speed with the world’s foremost fashion designers as they demonstrate the allure of timelessness. Just as the Earth is reborn with this season, the classics reemerge to reign supreme. You’ll find another example of this concept from the very inventors of the automobile in “Mercedes: A Tale of Two SLs.” With the season of love, thoughts also turn to showering gifts upon our loved ones. You’ll find the perfect way to say I love you with our spring Gift Guide.

Be sure to visit us at Richter & Phillips Jewelers. We love hearing your stories and feel honored to be a part of your special moments.

It is our honor and privilege to present to you the spring edition of LX Cincinnati.

Our best to you, Fred Fehr, Rick Fehr & Art Fehr

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Features

inside

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Community 10 The Pink Ribbon 61 Cincinnati Reds Jewelry 36 Gift Guide 64 Simon G.

Photography 19 Behind the Lens of Emily Gualdoni

Fashion 49 Runway Report The Pink Ribbon Behind the Lens of Emily Gualdoni

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Mercedes: A Tale of Two SLs

Lifestyle 15 Rolex Regatta 43 Mercedes: A Tale of Two SLs

Travel 29 Destination... I Do! Libation 54 Best Beer in the World

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Best Beer in the World

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The Richter & Phillips Co. Gift Guide

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cover on on thethe cover

Publisher FRED FEHR, RICK FEHR & ART FEHR Associate Publisher CAROL RYAN Editor JON ROBERTS Senior Designer ANGIE HALTER Featured on the cover is the work of brilliant fashion, beauty and wedding photographer, Emily Gualdoni. Emily says “I’ve always found it fascinating when you look at an image and have to wonder if it’s a painting or if it’s a photograph.”

Project Coordinator ASHLEY ANDERSON

See Emily’s distinct style in an exclusive LX photo shoot and interview,“Behind the Lens of Emily Gualdoni” on pages 19-28.

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 lxmagazines.com, as well as other mediums for any and all purposes.

Copyright © 2013 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 LX Publications, LLC. 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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The Sold Out Crowd Cris Collinsworth ProScan Fund’s Pink Ribbon Luncheon Wows a Crowd of 1400.

Bejeweled in Pink, guests were on their feet, holding hands and swaying to the music as Martina McBride performed her hit single, I’m Gonna Love You Through It, a song dedicated to women battling breast cancer. The Pink Ribbon Luncheon attendees were enthralled by the Country Music Superstar’s incredible talent, but it was the lyrics of I’m Gonna Love You Through It that lifted everyone off their feet as they demonstrated a community of support for The Pink Ribbon.

On September 27th, The Cris Collinsworth ProScan Fund kicked off Breast Cancer Awareness Month with the 11th Annual Pink Ribbon Luncheon presented by ProScan Imaging.

The signature event, which has grown to become one of the largest afternoon fundraisers in Greater Cincinnati, has raised over $2.5 million to support the five Pink Ribbon Programs.

The sold out crowd of 1400 community members and supporters entered Duke Energy Convention center, some for the 11th year in a row, in support of the Pink Ribbon. Guests attended the Pre-Luncheon Physician’s Discussion: A Healthy Mind sponsored by Tri-State Cadillac Dealers. The Physician’s Discussion was hosted and emceed by Dr. Stephen Pomeranz, and featured guest speakers Dr. Alberto Espay, Dr. Lisa Larkin, and Dr. Rob Neal.

Following the Physician’s Discussion, guests entered the Atrium, sponsored by Performance Lexus, where they purchased

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Bejeweled in Pink, guests were on their feet, holding hands and swaying to the music as Martina McBride performed. silent auction items, had their picture taken on the Pink Carpet, and enjoyed coffee and tea before the doors opened to the main event.

Guests arrived at their luncheon seats and were delighted to find a beautiful pink beaded bracelet and jewelry cleaner donated by Richter and Phillips, a pink swag bag on the back of the chair, the tables dressed with pink place mats, pink gems, and centerpieces filled with pink flowers or pink candles. The room was decorated to echo the candlelight ambiance in Martina McBride’s I’m Gonna Love You Through It music video.

Cris Collinsworth and Channel 9 News Anchor, Carol Williams appeared on the stage, as they have every year to host the event. They recognized Honorary Chairs, Tom and Francie Hiltz as well as the Power of Pink Award recipient, The Breast Cancer Alliance of Greater Cincinnati. Cris and Carol also auctioned off six Live Auction items, including four tickets to the Ryder Cup in Scotland in 2014 -- which sold for $12,000, more than any live auction item in the history of the luncheon!

Other Live Auction items included a three night stay in Telluride, Colorado; throwing the first pitch at a Reds game in 2013; two tickets to the NCAA Final Four tournament in Atlanta; two tickets to the Kentucky Derby; and a three night stay at Stonegate Farm.

Martina McBride’s concert began with her hit, This One’s for the Girls. She also performed In My Daughter’s Eyes, Teenage Daughters, and Independence Day, songs which hit home to women of all ages.

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The audience enjoyed snapping with the singer as she sang Roger Miller’s 1960s hit King of the Road. Tears filled the eyes of many as she performed an a capella version of Somewhere Over the Rainbow. Of course, her grand finale was a stunning performance of I’m Gonna Love You Through It, which inspired the crowd to continue fighting breast cancer through the Pink Ribbon.

Thanks to the generosity of sponsors and community members, this year’s Pink Ribbon Luncheon raised over $415,000!

All of the funds raised support the Pink Ribbon Programs, including: The Pink Ribbon Bag Program, Mammogram Match, The Pink Ribbon Centers, Cruisin’ for a Cure, and The Pink Ribbon Empowerment Program.

In eleven years, The Pink Ribbon Programs have provided free mammograms to over 2000 patients at the Pink Ribbon Centers. The fund has provided followup services including diagnostic mammograms, breast ultrasounds and breast biopsies to over 350 Mammogram Match patients. The Pink Ribbon has sent over 3,200 Pink Ribbon Bags to women newly

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diagnosed with breast cancer, and Cruisin’ for a Cure has provided over 700 round trip transportations to and from breast health appointments at the ProScan Pink Ribbon Centers.

In its 11 years, the Pink Ribbon Luncheon attendees have heard powerful performances and speeches from numerous icons including Nora Ephron in 2011, Cat Cora in 2010, Lee Ann Womack in 2009, Dara Torres in 2008, Diahann Carroll in 2007, Dr. Andrew Weil in 2006, Geralyn Lucas and Dr. Bernie Siegel in 2005, Anita Shreve in 2004, Dr. Jerri Nielsen in 2003, and Vickie Girard in 2002.

The Pink Ribbon Luncheon has become an afternoon to celebrate breast cancer survivors and the continuing circle of love and support for this great cause. For more information on the Cris Collinsworth ProScan Fund, The Pink Ribbon Programs or to make a donation, please call 1-866-557-PINK.

I’m Gonna Love You Through It

by Martina McBride She dropped the phone and burst into tears The doctor just confirmed her fears Her husband held it in and held her tight Cancer don’t discriminate or care if you’re just 38 With three kids who need you in their lives He said, “I know that you’re afraid and I am, too But you’ll never be alone, I promise you”

Now it’s forced smiles and baggy shirts To hide what the cancer took from her But she just wants to feel like a woman again She said, “I don’t think I can do this anymore” He took her in his arms and said “That’s what my love is for”

When you’re weak, I’ll be strong When you let go, I’ll hold on When you need to cry, I swear that I’ll be there to dry your eyes When you feel lost and scared to death, Like you can’t take one more step Just take my hand, together we can do it I’m gonna love you through it.

When you’re weak, I’ll be strong When you let go, I’ll hold on When you need to cry, I swear that I’ll be there to dry your eyes When you feel lost and scared to death, Like you can’t take one more step Just take my hand, together we can do it I’m gonna love you through it.

She made it through the surgery fine They said they caught it just in time But they had to take more than they planned

And when this road gets too long I’ll be the rock you lean on Just take my hand, together we can do it I’m gonna love you through it.

I’m gonna love you through it.

Sponsors

Presenting Sponsor; ProScan Imaging. Platinum Sponsor; Anonymous. Pre-Luncheon Sponsor; Tri-State Cadillac Dealers.

Artium Sponsor; Preformance Lexus. Silver Angel; Carl and Edyth Lindner 2008 Charitable Lead Trust, Fifth Third Bank, Katz, Teller, Brant & Hild, Lynnette and David Wyler and The Wyler Family Foundation. Pink Angel; Hauser Insurance Group and Libery Mutual, JP Morgan Chase, Mangat-Kuy-Holzapfel Plastic Surgery, Richter & Phillips Jewelers, Farmer Family Foundation, Tri Health. Angel; 16 W Marketing, Cincinnati Bell, Cininnati Bell Technology Solutions, Deloitte, HoneyBaked Ham, Midwest Financial Partners - Maxim and David Meyers, Pure Romance. Corporate Table; The Albach, Wells & Dauer Group at Morgan Stanley Smith Barney, Matthew Chanin, M.D., Cincinnati Breast Surgeons, Duke Energy Convention Center, Enquirer Media, GE Aviation, Gordon F. Brunner Family, Todd Greenberg, M.D., David Hosea, Humana of Ohio, Jeff Ruby Culinary Entertainment Inc., Marvin Lewis Community Fund, Robert Osher, M.D., Elaine and Marvin Rosenberg, SP Agency, Standard Textile, St. Elizabeth Healthcare, The Lawrence Firm P.S.C., WCPO and The E.W. Scipps Co., Willis Group, Wood, Herron & Evans. Angels In Kind; Balloons Across the River, Camargo, Trading Company, Easley Blessed Photography, Hamilton Digital, Werner Landscaping, Denise Buttelwerth, Ft. Thomas Florist, Kreutzer & Dorl Florists, Robin Wood Florists. www.lxmagazines.com

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behind the lens of emily gualdoni

By Lyndon Conrad Bell

You don't take a photograph, you make it. - Ansel Adams Considered one of the top wedding photographers, Emily Gualdoni’s ethereal esthetic translates into images imparting the unique quality of appearing to be lighter than air. Radiating a deep internal glow, her photographs also warmly entice viewers to relive a moment forever frozen in time.

Further, Gualdoni’s distinctive sensibilities enable her to approach her wedding photography with the fluidity, attention to detail and grace of a fashion photographer— as well as the observational skills of a photojournalist. Combining the two, she captures the emotion of a day in beautifully eye-arresting, almost painterly images.

Remarkably though, like so many gifted people, when you ask her about her work, she says it’s just something she feels. To learn what happens behind the lens of Emily Gualdoni, we commissioned her to produce this series of photographs so we could discuss them in detail.

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Photography Emily Gualdoni Hair & Makeup Loni Hale Stylist Theresa DeMaria, Factor Artists Stylist Assistants Shannon Brehm Wynita Yancy Models Noelle Lynch, Ford Chicago Khrystyna B, Ford Chicago Gowns by Mira Bridal Couture, Chicago

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“I’ve always found it fascinating when you look at an image and have to wonder if it’s a painting or if it’s a photograph.”

- Emily Gualdoni

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LX: The images have a very definite look and feel to them. Even if one didn't know you shot them all, it’s readily evident the same photographer did.

In other words, you have a clearly identifiable style. How did you develop it? How has it evolved since you began photographing?

Emily Gualdoni: I've always had this in me.

Over the years I've just been fine tuning it. But, having said that, I've never been a very "technical" photographer. I do things intuitively, which I suppose gives me more of a distinct style.

I want someone to look at my photography and see pieces of art without focusing on the elements of the image. I feel I've accomplished a successful shoot when someone can look and think; "Wow, that’s just beautiful." and maybe not even be able to explain why.

I've always found it fascinating when you look at an image and have to wonder if it’s a painting or if it’s a photograph. I incorporate this into my efforts first by creating beautiful lighting and then polishing the resulting photos with a clean—but light—edit.

LX: This work is quite striking. It’s like the images are black and white—but in color. Did you see that before you did the shoot?

E.G.: Contrast was one of my main ideas when putting together this shoot. I really wanted the beautiful gowns to pop out, but while remaining very simple and elegant.

I think it makes these photographs more fascinating when, at first glance, you think you're looking at some black and white photos. But then, when your eyes take in the skin and hair, you realize they are color photographs.

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“I make my wedding clients feel beautiful, glamorous, confident and ideally like they have a little fashion model in them...�

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LX: Looking at your work, one can see your vision is reflective of haute couture. Is fashion the foundation of your entire photographic approach?

E.G.: I love coming up with a concept and gathering the right team around me to execute the vision and create a piece of art.

I have a hard time expressing myself with words, but people can get to know me by just looking at my work. I like inspiring people with things they haven't seen before. Fashion photography interests me because you have control over the outcome. Instead of waiting for a moment to happen, you create it.

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LX: How does that inform or affect your wedding work?

E.G.: I make my wedding clients feel beautiful, glamorous, confident and ideally like they have a little fashion model in them as well. It’s their wedding day, they should experience it feeling exceptionally attractive. Within that, I also want to reflect their personalities. So while I try to glamorize the images as much as possible, I also make sure I capture the personalities of the subjects—along with the overall beauty and joyousness associated with the time.

LX: With that said, how do you unobtrusively capture a wedding day?

E.G.: When I'm photographing the couple or the wedding party for posed portraits, I relax everyone with humor. I let them see my dorky/goofy side. This humanizes the situation and loosens them up so rather than focusing on the camera, they relax and enjoy being in the moment. During the reception, I use my telephoto lens to photograph people from a distance so they don't realize it because people tend to get a bit nervous when they know they're being photographed. They act differently than they would normally. With these techniques, I can easily capture their love, fun and friendship. Meanwhile, they remain completely unaware I’m doing it.

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By Martin Sayers

It’s no secret that today there are a growing number of couples skipping the traditional affair and marrying abroad. Why not, our world is full of amazing places and breathtaking views!

Whether you are arranging a destination wedding, a second wedding or renewing your vows, prepare for your “I do’s” at one of these fine global destinations.

photo: Tourism Fiji

Cape Town, South Africa If it is a wedding in the African sun that you are looking for then Cape Town, the most popular tourist destination not just in South Africa but the entire continent, is hard to beat.

Nestled in the unique Cape floral kingdom and boasting worldfamous landmarks such as Table Mountain and Cape Point, Cape Town offers naturally beautiful wedding venues coupled with a buzzing atmosphere and fantastic weather.

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Dubrovnik, Croatia

Church of St. Blaise (Crkva Sv. Vlaha)

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Croatia, with its stunning coastline and wealth of natural beauty, is an increasingly popular destination for weddings and the city of Dubrovnik is attracting many couples. It is easy to see why – Dubrovnik is a UNESCO world heritage site and sits next to the sparkling blue of the Adriatic Sea, where the myriad of tiny and beautiful islands that dot the water offer the perfect opportunity for a pre or post-wedding boat trip. On the shore, Dubrovnik’s walled Old Town is simply breathtaking – its churches, palaces and piazzas provide a fantastic backdrop for photographs and the warmth and generosity of its people is famous throughout the world.

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New York, USA

Washington Square Park, New York

The world’s most iconic city has inspired countless songs, movies and books and has more famous sights than most entire countries, so it offers the perfect backdrop for a big day to remember. New York loves a wedding and many brides that choose to marry in the Big Apple eschew the limo for a chance to arrive in time-honored NYC style in the back of a yellow cab to one of the plethora of fantastic venues available across the city. New York’s buzzing nightlife also ensures that the postwedding party will be one to remember!

Las Vegas, USA Las Vegas may have a reputation as the ‘get hitched quick’ capital of the world but in fact the city plays host to all sorts of nuptials thanks to a mindboggling array of venues, from the glittering opulence of the Bellagio to more small and intimate venues, not to mention the world-famous Elvis Chapel! The scintillating nightlife on offer along the Las Vegas Strip will also ensure that your wedding party will never be bored during their time in the entertainment capital of the world.

Fiji This south sea paradise attracts thousands of couples each year for marriage ceremonies. It is easy to see why – Fiji’s collection of tropical islands is ringed by amazing sandy beaches and palm trees and the cobalt blue sea is as warm as a bath, meaning that you are also in the perfect spot for a honeymoon. Such is the popularity of Fijian weddings that many resorts now have purpose built chapels on-site and can cater for every requirement of your big day, from helping the bride to look her best, right through to the post-wedding meal and party.

photo: Tourism Fiji LikuLiku Resort

Victoria Street, Edinburgh

Edinburgh, Scotland The capital of Scotland can provide the perfect backdrop for a big day to remember. This grand old city is steeped in history and its magnificent architecture has to be seen to be believed. Yet this is no staid, boring town – Edinburgh is a culturally diverse and exciting location that offers a range of attractions for any wedding party, from shopping on the world-famous Princes Street to climbing up the hill known as Arthur’s Seat.

Sydney, Australia Sydney is the biggest city on the whole Australian continent and is also one of the world’s greatest tourist destinations.

The friendliness of the people, the stunning landmarks and the glorious sunshine also make it a fantastic place to get married. Sydney weddings range from traditional affairs in grand old hotels such as the Langham in the historic Rocks district, to open-air celebrations on Bondi Beach or on one of the many other glorious expanses of sand that dot the city’s coastline.

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Sydney Opera House

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Mauritius The writer Mark Twain once said of Mauritius that it was the ‘inspiration for heaven’, which makes it a perfect place to start a marriage.

This beautiful speck in the middle of the Indian Ocean boasts everything you could possibly hope to find in a tropical paradise – from sandy beaches to lush green jungle and clear blue waters. Mauritius is one of the most popular marriage destinations in the world, so there is no shortage of hotels that cater for weddings and which can accommodate large wedding parties.

Bruges, Belgium This impossibly beautiful Belgian city is regularly named as one of the most romantic cities in the world and it is easy to see why. A network of canals wind their way around the city, a feature that has earned Bruges the moniker of ‘Venice of the North’, and almost everywhere you turn there is an example of stunning medieval architecture.

Bruges is also famous for its ‘Lake of Love’ – a peaceful stretch of water adjoined by a park that is popular with courting couples and has been the setting for many a proposal of marriage.

photo: Toerisme Brugge/Jan D’Hondt

Malta The island of Malta in the Mediterranean, along with its smaller neighbours, Gozo and Comino, offers a wonderful setting for a wedding. Sunshine is almost guaranteed and the country’s rich and colourful history makes it an incredible cultural destination. Malta is home to nine UNESCO world heritage sites and also boasts significant natural beauty, with beautiful bays and coves surrounding all three islands.

English is one of the official languages of Malta, which makes it very easy to arrange things with local firms leading up to your big day.

Ramla l-Hamra

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Š 2013 ArtCarved Bridal

Gift

Guide

MICHELE Deco Diamond Chronograph with Stainless Steel Bracelet $1,795

LISA ROBIN Tekke Collection: Sterling Silver Pendant with the Tekke Design on one side and the Portale Design on the other, Reversible, Two Gemstones Inset on each side, 8mm Cushion Cut Stone in the middle and 6mm Trillion Cut Stone on the bottom (Chains sold seperately) $390

MICHELE Diamond Mini Urban with Two Tone Bracelet $2,295

LISA ROBIN Tekke Collection: Turkmen Earrings in Sterling Silver with the Tekke Design on one side and the Portale Design on the other $140 36

LISA ROBIN Cordoba Collection: Sterling Silver Cordoba Design on one side and the Portale Design on the other, Reversible, 6mm Cabochon Gemstone in the Center with 3mm Gemstones on Enhancer Bail, Sides and Bottom $550

MICHELE White Ceramic Diamond Bezel $1,995

LISA ROBIN Cordoba Collection: Sterling Silver Leaf Design and Open Circle Drops with Faceted Gemstone Teardrops $300

MICHELE Ladies Stainless Steel Diamond Serein $1,545 With Stainless Bracelet $350

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TACORI 18k White Gold or Platinum Simply Tacori Engagement Ring with brilliant alluring pave decorating on the ceiling and along the gorgeous surprise side details. starting at $2,550

TACORI 18k White Gold or Platinum Crescent Wedding Band with a romantic ribbontwist with diamond accents. starting at $6,670

TACORI 18k White Gold or Platinum Twist Pave Engagement Ring with round brilliant cut center diamond and pave-set diamonds along criss-cross band. starting at $5,130

TACORI 18k White Gold or Platinum Engagement Ring with Diamonds set in contemporary Crescent. starting at $6,890

TACORI 18K925 Island Rain Collection Mulitple Sterling Silver Bangles with clusters of Sky Blue Topaz, London Blue Topaz and Clear Quartz layered over Neolite Turquoise stones Individual Bangles start at $250

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TACORI 18K925 Sterling Lilac Blossom Amethyst Pendant $280 Sterling Lilac Blossom Amethyst Earrings $320

TACORI 18K925 Sterling Lilac Blossom Amethyst Ring $770 Sterling Lilac Blossom Rose Amethyst Ring $750

TACORI 18K925 Sterling Silver Bracelet with faceted candy-drop gems in Saffron Lemon Quartz, Honeyed Cognac Quartz, Seafoam Prasiolite, Smoky Quartz and Deep Rose Amethyst $970

TACORI 18K925 Sterling Silver & 18K YG Clr Qtz over Neo Turquoise Triple Strand Bracelet $800 Studs $270

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KIRK KARA Angelique 18k Diamond Engagement Ring and Wedding Band starting at $2,100

KIRK KARA Carmella Diamond Engagement Ring starting at $5,600

KIRK KARA Amelia 18k Diamond and Sapphire Engagement Ring and Wedding Band starting at $2,800

KIRK KARA Dahlia 18k Diamond Engagement Ring and Wedding Band starting at $2,100

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KIRK KARA XO Collection 18k Diamond Engagement Ring and Wedding Band starting at $2,300 www.lxmagazines.com

KIRK KARA Pirouette Rose and White Gold Diamond Engagement Ring and Wedding Band starting at $1,545

CHARRIOL Celtic Classic Diamond Hoop Earrings $1,095

KIRK KARA Angelique 18k Diamond Engagement Ring starting at $3,050

$325

CHARRIOL 18k and Stainless Diamond Stacking Bracelets

$575

$795 www.lxmagazines.com

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The 1954 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL meets the 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG

By Lyndon Conrad Bell

The origins of the “Gullwing” Mercedes-Benz sports car can be traced backed to 1952, when the original Mercedes-Benz 300SL sports racing car won the 24 Hours of LeMans endurance race. That same year, the car won the 1,912-mile Carrera Panamericana Mexican

endurance race, and the 1000-mile Mille Miglia Italian road race. While the car boasted a mere 175 horsepower— considerably less than its contemporary rivals—its light weight, solid reliability, and superior aerodynamics gave it a considerable advantage on the track.

1952 Mercedes-Benz 300SL

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The weight advantage came courtesy of the tubular chassis designed by Rudolf Uhlenhaut, then chief developing engineer at Mercedes-Benz. Draping the 300 SL’s fluidly beguiling bodywork over Uhlenhaut’s tubular skeletal structure endowed the sports car with outstanding strength and resolute rigidity, thus improving both its handling and reliability.

The downside of the tubular skeleton design was that it would not permit the car’s doors to open in the standard fashion. The lower part of the structure passed through the area where a conventional door would normally go. To compensate, one of the most evocative aspects of the car —those remarkably captivating gullwing doors — were specified to overcome this limitation.

This distinction, along with the car’s highly successful racing record, led legendary automobile importer Max Hoffman to petition Mercedes-Benz to offer a road going version of the car in the United States. Among the other brands imported to the States by Hoffman were Alfa Romeo, BMW, Porsche, and Volkswagen. With his finger firmly on the pulse of American auto enthusiasts, Hofmann would routinely make recommendations to those factories about cars he felt would hold strong appeal. Other now-iconic models owing their existence to Hoffman include the Alfa Romeo Giulietta Spider and the Porsche Speedster.

The Mercedes-Benz 300 SL “Gullwing” (model series W 198 I, 1954 to 1957)

The road going version of the 300SL was introduced at the New York Auto Show in 1954. This was a significant event because it marked the first time a Mercedes-Benz automobile was introduced at an auto show other than Frankfurt or Geneva. Fitted with a 3.0-liter inline sixcylinder fuel injected engine, the 1954 300SL Gullwing coupe made 212 horsepower at 5,800 rpm and 202 ftlbs of torque at 4,600 rpm. With its four-speed manual

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transmission and a curb weight of 3,430 pounds, the fastest version of the 300SL boasted a top speed of some 160 miles per hour. This was enough to make it the fastest production car on the market in 1954.

A total of 1,400 copies of the car were produced between 1954 and 1957.

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Flash forward some 59 years and we’re streaking along a closed course at 150 miles per hour in the 2013 MercedesBenz SLS AMG, the 300SL’s spiritual successor. Even at that elevated pace, there was still more room under our right foot, so we prodded the pedal closer to the gullwing coupe’s floorboard in a request for even more velocity.

In response, the transmission actually downshifted! The 563-horsepower, 6.2-liter hand assembled V8 barked even more assertively in response as it accessed its full 479 ft-lbs of torque. The boat tailed Benz then proceeded to rocket from 150 to 185 as if it were launching from a standstill.

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“With the SLS AMG, Mercedes-Benz offers a zero to 60 of just over three seconds...”

Capable of 151 miles per hour at its 7200-rpm redline in fifth gear, the SLS AMG is traveling a mere nine miles per hour slower than the top speed of its ancestor. Thing is, its seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox still has two more gears to work with. According to the folks at Mercedes, the SLS AMG will do 197 miles per hour.

We’re inclined to believe them.

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Remarkably, where other supercars seething with the potency of the SLS AMG ask you to compromise some aspect of your comfort and/ or convenience, you’ll be perfectly happy driving the Mercedes supercar everyday. The engine is wholly composed trundling along at pedestrian speeds. Still, while

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the SLS AMG is as luxurious and comfortable as you’d expect an upmarket Mercedes to be, at full cry, the V8 blasts a baritone capable of summoning police officers from three surrounding counties.

Both raucous and beautiful, the car’s sound is absolutely addictive.

With the SLS AMG, Mercedes-Benz offers a zero to 60 of just over three seconds, exceptionally luxurious accommodations, and a worthy successor to the iconic 300 SL Gullwing coupe. If ever there were any doubt about who invented the automobile, the SLS AMG proves Mercedes-Benz is the one.

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Runway Report Women's Spring 2013

Designer Spotlight Oscar de la Renta:

Too Much is Never Enough Godfrey Deeny New York's patron of patrician chic, Oscar de la Renta, said it with roses this season, or rather a whole garden of flowers; everything from leather petal bracelets to silk organza flower embroidery.

Like a filmmaker or Renaissance oil painter, the mature years of de la Renta have been marked by a renewal with the avant-garde - so even though his clothes are the nearest thing there is to couture in America - they are imbued with an offbeat artistry.

That's why his cast appeared with red and turquoise streaked hair, and why every second look was dissected by, dripped with or encircled by Russian gold brooches, earrings, mini belts and tassels in some too much is never enough chutzpah.

There was a thoroughly charming moment when U.K. model Cara Delavigne strutted out in the most outrageously short shocking pink ostrich feather peplum bustier and cocktail shorts, a little bird of paradise strutting across the floor in the designer's headquarters way up high in an historic Fifth Avenue skyscraper just as sun set over the city skyline.

And, ever the gentleman, de la Renta listed all 11 of his designer assistants in the program notes. You could count on one hand the number of Continental designers who have ever done that.

As the Italians say, “i signori non si fanno�, meaning you can't make a gentleman. One has to be fortunate to be born one, not by the accident of birth but the nobility of intention. In that sense, de la Renta is American fashion's finest gent.

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Oscar de la Renta

Though the single most arresting image was a shimmering silver bead tunic and matching pants that dazzled the audience at the Tuesday, Sept. 11, evening show. Commercially savvy as ever, the designer, who hit 80 in July, had plenty of slick crowd pleasers - lace chiffon blouses no woman would not want in her closet, and white guipure pencil skirts that reeked sophistication.

Oscar de la Renta

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Versace

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Runway Report Men's Spring 2013

Giorgio Armani

Designer Spotlight Giorgio Armani Gets Smoothly Sporty Godfrey Deeny Welcome to the new sporting chic. On Tuesday, June 26, the final day of the Italian menswear season, Giorgio Armani presented an entire collection devoted to the concept of gentlemanly sports style.

Though the designer opened with some brilliantly cut casual suits – cut in the fabric of the season, tightly woven jute – the big news this season at Armani is that sport is cool again.

Nothing underlined that more than Armani’s great finale – ignited by a series of high-tech, and sculptural trench-coats, finished with massive naval buttons, and a succeeding quartet of sleek rowers in shorts and jerkins, made in the designer’s signature “three dimensional” zig zag prints, in a form so small they dazzled the eyes. Right before Armani took his bow, a team of five boulevard dandies in matching white suits with shorts appeared, raising their pork-pie fedoras in unison on the runway as if accepting winning team medals.

“I could have gone for that old idea of healthy style; The Great Gatsby at a polo game in the Hamptons. But I wanted a modern impeccable elegance,” Armani told journalists in Italian backstage in his giant Milan show space, where all his Italian shows are staged.

The new athletic style made for a looser, more forgiving silhouette, the better to admit all those muscular torsos and legs. And throughout the detailing was sporty – from contrast amber hued zippers to coordinated buttons to the ample knits.

A day earlier in his Emporio Armani show, the designer spent practically the whole collection on the beach, though most of the time poised to work out. The first two dozen models wore shorts, and that show finished with the projection of “Olimpiadi,” a black-and-white video homage to the Italian Olympic team, which Armani is outfitting.

Indeed, the designer seemed sports obsessed this season.

On the final day of the fashion season, he announced in a full-page ad in La Gazzetta dello Sport – Europe’s leading sports daily - that his professional basketball team, EA7 would kick off next season with an exhibition match against the visiting Boston Celtics in Milan.

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Giorgio Armani

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BEST BEER IN THE

WORLD

photo: Ale Sharpton

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Belgian Beers are World Renowned, but the ‘Westy’ Tops the Hype

By Dennis Malcolm Byron

Whether it was a Cabbage Patch Kid, a Tickle Me Elmo or the next Apple iPhone, there was always a product that created a national frenzy for consumers who had to get it before it sold out by any means necessary. But could you imagine a certain beer brewing up the same consumer madness? Well on December 12, 2012, the reclusive Trappist Abbey of Saint Sixtus out of the quiet farmlands of west Belgium’s Vleteren region singlehandedly created the most historic one-day national manhunt the brewing world had ever witnessed with their ale, the Westvleteren XII aka the “Westy.” And regardless of how this wallet-draining $84.99 package popularly termed a “brick”—six 11.2-ounce bottles and two signature goldrimmed glasses—sold out as fast as it could be unloaded off the delivery truck, it would be the first and last time this opportunity would occur.

And now the questions: What’s so great about the Westy and second, why wouldn’t the Saint Sixtus monks capitalize off this beer’s fame and rake in huge profits?

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Well first, the basics.

Belgian beer has become extremely popular worldwide due to their complex flavors, brewing techniques, and often sweet tasting notes. Ingredients like candy sugar, coriander and orange peel are often used to counter the bitterness and distance this country’s beer from others in Europe and abroad.

Many of the varieties are also bottle conditioned, which give them similar aging properties as wine.

To add, due to the plethora of palatable delicacies Belgium has to offer including succulent mussels, rich chocolates and mouthwatering waffles, millions flock from around the world to pair the fare with the country’s ales and lagers. They’re that good. In fact, North America’s microbreweries emulate Belgian beer like witbier (wheat beer) and tripels (strong golden ales) so much that “style” had to be used by law along with “Belgian” on its label to curb any chance of confusing its origin. Credit the monks for this influence.

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photo: Ale Sharpton

Belgian monks were brewing centuries ago with a dual purpose—to provide a more sanitary option to local drinking water, and as a product to help raise funds for their abbeys. Over time, their brewing excellence would blossom and become sought throughout Europe. When discussing specifically Trappist monasteries originally from Normandy, France approximately 900 years ago, six of the seven, which produce beer, are based in Belgium—Achel, Orval, Chimay, Rochefort, Westmalle and Westvleteren. And while they are regarded as some of the best brewers globally, the Trappists’ strict brewing guidelines separate them from all other abbeys. In a nutshell, all beer should be brewed inside a Trappist monastery; everything including management and brewing operations should be under the supervision of the monks; and the money made from selling the beer must be solely used to maintain the monastery, support the monks’ living expenses, and serve as charitable funds for its surrounding community.

Belgian monks were brewing centuries ago with a dual purpose—to provide a more sanitary option to local drinking water, and as a product to help raise funds for their abbeys.

But one Trappist abbey’s beer particularly stands out. Saint Sixtus Abbey’s Westvleteren has been brewing since 1838 and produces three different beers—the Blonde (aka green cap) at 5.8 percent ABV; the Westvleteren 8 (blue cap) served at 8 percent ABV; and the Westvleteren XII (yellow cap) at 10.2 percent ABV. The latter, introduced in 1940, is the most celebrated of them all and regarded by many as the world’s best. Categorized as a Quadruple, the dark, opaque brown “Westy” 12 is truly magnificent, boasting flavors of fig, raisins, brown sugar, roasted nuts, a slight smokiness… the flavor profiles can go on for days but the overall praise is due to its remarkable balance of them all. Sweet, complex and warming, its accolades are valid.

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Trappist Abbey of Saint Sixtus’, Westvleteren

The Trappist beers adhere to three strict conditions: The beer must be brewed within a Trappist Abbey The beer must be brewed under the supervision and responsibility of the monks The majority of the revenue must be dedicated to charitable work

Trappist Abbey in Belgium

Considered by many connoisseurs to be “the best in the world,” on 12.12.12, Switzerland, France, Spain, the Netherlands, Italy and the U.S. had beer devotees camping outside select stores hours before dawn trying to score a one-time only Westvleteren XII, “the brick” six-pack.

But not only is the Westy brewed in severely limited quantities (only 160,000 cases are produced annually), the strict Westvleteren guidelines solely allow sales of the beer at its abbey and adjacent café, In de Vrede. To make it even more challenging, reservations to pick up your limited quantities of the beer have to be made by phone weeks in advance, and even then, the phone is constantly busy. Staying true and obedient to spiritual guidelines, the St. Sixtus monks only wish to make enough money to take care of their living expenses, so the beer’s worldwide demand is moot to them. They do not relish the attention they have received over the years and passionately yearn for a quiet life serving God, but when their monastery called for major renovations including extensive roof repair, drastic measures called for the Westvleteren XII “brick” to be its savior. So on 12.12.12, Switzerland, France, Spain, the Netherlands, Italy, and the U.S. had beer devotees camping outside select stores hours before dawn trying to score a one-time only six-pack. As expected, the limited releases sold out in hours worldwide through retail means, and then it was eBay’s turn, where it became commonplace for an untampered brick to sell for $500.

So let’s say you are one of the thousands of beer enthusiasts who did not score a Westy six-pack; worry not. There are a handful of other quadrupels that are not only readily accessible throughout Belgium and the U.S., but could be mentioned in the same sentence as the Westvleteren XII in terms of taste. Try the Trappistes Rochefort 10, St. Bernardus Abt 12, or even the Three Philosophers Belgian Style Blend brewed by Ommegang in Cooperstown, NY. So whether you get the opportunity to taste a Westvleteren XII or any of the other masterfully crafted beers produced by abbeys throughout Belgium, your palate will be blessed.

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OFFICIAL JEWELER OF THE

CINCINNATI REDS

As baseball’s first professional team, the Cincinnati Reds have a rich and storied tradition that spans generations of fans throughout the Midwest. The club’s history dates back to 1869, when the Cincinnati Red Stockings were the first team to field an all-professional nine. That first team featured two of baseball’s most important early pioneers in brothers George and Harry Wright. The Red Stockings finished the year with an unblemished 57-0 record playing teams from across the United States.

Since that mythical first championship, the Reds have fielded a number of great teams through the years from their first World Series champion club in 1919 and the 1940 champs to the Big Red Machine’s back-to-back titles in 1975 and ’76 and the wireto-wire heroes of 1990. A member of baseball’s National League since 1889, the Reds have won numerous NL championships and division titles.

Not surprisingly, fans in the Queen City celebrate the opening of each baseball season as one of the most important dates on the calendar. Opening Day is a holiday unlike any other for most fans, with a parade through downtown and special ceremonies before the game. Fans flock to the city to take part in the festivities, even if it means skipping school or work to join in the celebration. The connection between the Reds and their fans is a bond that will live on for many future generations.

Located on the winding banks of the Ohio River in downtown Cincinnati, Great American Ball Park serves as the home of the Cincinnati Reds, baseball's first professional franchise.

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the beauty & detail of

Unique and cutting-edge, yet at the same time evocative of old-world elegance, Simon G. jewelry designs are best suited for those who desire a specific degree of individuality. Simon Ghanimian, who established the eponymous Simon G. company in 1981, is considered one of the most creative jewelers working today. Well noted for routinely crafting beautifully detailed pieces, Simon Ghanimian works only with the most precious of materials. While the signature usage of literally hundreds of micro-set pavé diamonds infuses a piece of Simon G. jewelry with an aura of iridescence, it is a meticulous attention to detail from which the overriding brilliance of the work is truly derived. While most jewelry artisans would consider a certain grade of diamond “good enough” for the smaller stones in the pavé settings, Ghanimian insists upon high quality diamonds throughout the piece. Smaller stones that are its equal in clarity and color will always accompany a large center stone in his work.

Ghanimian’s Armenian heritage and traditions contribute strongly to his underpinning philosophies. The enduring value of hard work, and a high regard for fine artisanal skills separate Simon G. jewelry from all others. These values drive Ghanimian to strive to ensure each piece of jewelry his firm creates is infused with the same passion he’d put into it were he to create it for himself—or someone he loves. This, in combination with the intention of creating an heirloom whose beauty will transcend time and the whims of fashion, means a Simon G. piece will be treasured by succeeding generations.

To make this happen, Ghanimian places a great deal of emphasis on the fundamentals.

Rather than settling for common standards of quality, Simon alloys his own metals, working in 18k platinum and palladium or platinum and iridium. This gives pieces greater durability and longevity, and is also ideal for the complicated beadwork, filigree and engravings required to achieve the Simon G. look. It also helps him accomplish goals other artisans skirt. For example, if he’s working in white gold, Ghanimian alloys it with palladium to minimize the potential for allergic reactions to white gold—while simultaneously ensuring it will stay white longer.

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In addition to his signature platinum, Ghanimian is known for employing 18-karat yellow gold, white gold, and even rose gold in ways strikingly complementary to the precious stones embedded in a piece.

Ghanimian insists all Simon G. micro-set diamonds are hand set and inspected by a trusted experienced artisan—using a microscope. The intention here is to ensure each stone reflects light brilliantly, and is solidly set. Ghanimian insists the wearer should be free from the worry of losing even a single stone.

Interestingly, within each specialty within his studio are specialists within specialists. Certain master diamond-setters work on pavé settings exclusively, while others are dedicated to channel-settings, and still others are masters with prong settings. In a similar fashion, their colleagues doing the filigree, beading mil grain and engravings also specialize and work by hand. Thus, each detail is sharper and every piece has its own unique look and feel. So exacting are the standards under which these craftspeople work, the interior surfaces of Simon G. pieces are just as polished and detailed as the exterior surfaces are.

After this excruciatingly detailed effort, the finished piece is subjected to hand-machine polishing and then must pass the critical eyes of the Simon G. quality control team before it can be offered to be worn. While all of this may seem an obsessively lengthy process, Ghanimian believes making an heirloom should involve more effort than is paid to a piece of fashion jewelry that will appear dated in a couple of years.

When you’re looking at a Simon G. piece, you can be assured you’re also looking at the finest gemstones available.

Known for exceptional pavé settings, Ghanimian typically uses G-H color, SI1 clarity diamonds in a variety of cuts—including round and kite brilliant cuts in his pavé designs. Aside from his affinity for sparkling white diamonds; natural colored diamonds and other gemstones are signature aspects of Ghanimian’s works of art.

The elaborate details of Simon G. engagement rings effortlessly radiate the look of an antique, when they are actually uniquely fashion-forward. In other words, Ghanimian creates jewelry for women who have a clear idea of who they are and what they want. Rather than chasing trends, these are women of substance who prefer styles reflective of their own specific individuality.

The elaborate details of Simon G. engagement rings effortlessly radiate the look of an antique, when they are actually uniquely fashion-forward.

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