LX Cleveland Spring/Summer 2013

A Sheiban Jewelers Publication

www.SheibanJewelers.com

from the publisher

Welcome.

Greetings, 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 Cleveland, 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”.

Locally, we feature “Sparkle, Shimmer & Shine”, about the Achievement Centers for Children and the Cleveland’s Gala Event to raise funds for this local organization.

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 Sheiban Jewelers. We love hearing your stories and feel honored to be a part of your special moments.

www.sheibanjewelers.com

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

Our best to you, Tony, Chris and Jason www.lxmagazines.com

Features

inside

Community 10 Sparkle, Shimmer & Shine Jewelry 36 Gift Guide Photography 19 Behind the Lens

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of Emily Gualdoi

Fashion 49 Runway Report Lifestyle 43 Mercedes: A Tale of Two SLs 60 Tosa Cigars Recreation 15 Rolex Regatta Travel 29 Destination... I Do! Libation 54 Best Beer in the World Cuisine 64 Ultimate Summer Brunch

Sparkle, Shimmer & Shine Behind the Lens of Emily Gualdoi

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Mercedes: A Tale of Two SLs

Gift

Best Beer in the World

Sheiban Jewelers

Guide

JB STAR

SIMON G

Platinum and Diamond Band

Pave Diamond Engagement Ring

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VERRAGIO Paradiso Engagement Ring

VERRAGIO

Featuring the Lumino Set center with 0.40Cts of

Venetian Engagement Ring Featuring 0.50ct. of round brilliant diamonds to

round and princess cut diamonds.

enhance a round diamond center.

ELMA GIL 18kt White Gold Diamond Engagement Ring

SIMON G Emerald Cut Yellow Diamond Ring

18kt White Gold Diamond Fashion Band

MICHAEL M Split Shank Diamond Engagement Ring

MICHAEL M Triple Row Pave Diamond Engagement Ring

VERRAGIO Insignia Engagement Ring Featuring 0.55ct. of pave' set round brilliant-cut diamonds to enhance a round diamond center.

VERRAGIO

VERRAGIO

Parisian Engagement Ring

Insignia Engagement Ring Featuring 0.55ct. of princess and round brilliant-

Featuring 0.30ct. of pave' set round brilliant-cut diamonds to enhance a round diamond center with rose gold shoulders.

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cut diamonds to enhance a princess cut diamond center.

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MICHAEL M

MICHAEL M

Diamond Engagement Ring

Triple Row Graduated Diamond Engagement Ring

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Sheiban Jewelers Gift Guide

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cover on on thethe cover

Publishers TONY, CHRIS AND JASON SHEIBAN 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 Coordinators ASHLEY ANDERSON NICOLE HIGGINS

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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PINK MOTHER OF PEARL

and rose gold

MADE IN U.S.A. SINcE 1975

www.kabana.net

Š KABANA. All designs protected by copyright laws. All rights reserved. Reproduction/Duplication prohibited.

Sparkle, Shimmer & Shine Cleveland’s Gala Event Benefits Children

By Lyndon Conrad Bell Casey Young’s mother first noticed something was amiss when he was about 15 months old. His vocabulary started developing, and then all but disappeared. He didn’t make eye contact with anyone; instead he became fixated on his hand flapping in front of his face.

Adaja Jackson was born almost four months premature with severe lung disease and Cerebral Palsy. Her doctors had to perform a tracheotomy so she could breathe. As she developed, she was unable to crawl, feed herself, talk, write, or walk.

Both children’s families were at a complete loss as to what to do — until they discovered the Achievement Centers For Children.

Founded in 1940, as the Society for Crippled Children of Cuyahoga County, the organization’s first mission was to address the needs of children with polio and cardiac disorders. Over the ensuing 48 years, the society took on additional childhood challenges and continued to grow. In 1988, in recognition of the broad array of programs and services it had started to provide, the agency changed its name to the Achievement Centers for Children — and has been known as such to this day.

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“...no

child’s

future

should be compromised by their parents’ inability to afford the costs that can come with raising a child with disabilities.”

Since its inception, the Achievement Centers for Children has been fulfilling its mission to enable and empower children with disabilities and their families to grow, learn, play and prepare for lifelong achievement in society. The Centers provide comprehensive and familycentered services for children, youth, and young adults with a wide range of disabilities at a variety of locations, including schools, childcare centers, homes, and at the Achievement Centers’ three locations in Highland Hills, Westlake and at Camp Cheerful in Strongsville.

Services are tailored to meet children’s individual needs and are developed in partnership with family members. Special emphasis is placed on identifying and evaluating disabilities at an early age, with the goal of helping give the children a head start in life. The Achievement Centers for Children offer hope, expertise, and resources as a lifelong partner to families on a very challenging journey.

Through therapy, recreation, adapted sports, autism services, family support, and education the Achievement Centers serve over 4,300 children annually. The organization believes no child’s future should be compromised by their parents’ inability to afford the costs that can come with raising a child with disabilities. With the generous support of the community and an engaged board of directors, the Achievement Centers provide over $1.2 million in subsidized services annually.

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While the Achievement Centers for Children raise charitable dollars through a wide range of initiatives and activities, its annual Sparkle, Shimmer & Shine gala is its largest annual fundraising event. Sparkle, Shimmer & Shine has also become one of Cleveland’s most respected and enjoyable charity black tie galas.

Held each November at the InterContinental Hotel and Conference Center, the evening’s activities include a cocktail reception, an elegant seated dinner, both silent and live auctions, and special raffles.

On the surface a festive evening for the attendees, the reality is Sparkle, Shimmer & Shine generates significant revenue for the Achievement Centers for Children. Over 83 percent of the event’s proceeds go directly to the organization’s programs and services, making it an excellent return on the philanthropic investment of sponsors. In 2012, the event raised over $495,000 and was attended by over 425 business, community, and civic leaders.

For the past three years, Sheiban Jewelers has been a sponsor of the event. Sheiban’s participation has included an annual donation of jewelry — used each year in a special jewelry raffle. Additionally, the Sheibans have donated two ladies Rolex watches and a diamond and yellow sapphire bracelet of their own design.

Donated diamond and yellow sapphire bracelet design by Sheiban Jewelers

Pat Nobili, president and CEO of the Achievement Centers for Children says; “We so appreciate everything the Sheiban family has done for us. The children and families we serve have so many challenges; the Sheiban’s contributions and caring make a very positive impact.”

Deborah Osgood, vice president of Development and Marketing for the Achievement Centers for Children says the raffles have been very important to the event. In addition to helping provide a fun, exciting and upscale incentive at the gala, they have also generated a significant number of dollars for the agency and the mission.

Osgood says; “In addition to donating items to the raffle, the Sheibans have personally attended the event, supported our silent auctions, and brought friends to Sparkle, Shimmer & Shine who have also developed interest in our mission.”

To learn more about the Achievement Centers for Children and the Sparkle, Shimmer & Shine event, visit the Centers’ website at AchievementCenters.org.

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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

34 Lija Parish Church in Malta

A tribute to the mAn who chAnged wAtchmAking forever

In 1821, Nicolas Rieussec changed watchmaking forever with the invention of the first chronograph. Today, the Montblanc TimeWalker Chronograph Automatic is a tribute to the chronograph’s technical evolution. 43 mm stainless steel case, skelleted horns and sapphire crystal back, black calfskin strap with white stitching. Crafted in the Montblanc Manufacture in Le Locle, Switzerland.

strongsville • 440-238-0616

Gift

Sheiban Jewelers

Guide

VERRAGIO Paradiso Engagement Ring Featuring the Lumino Set center with 0.40Cts of round and princess cut diamonds.

VERRAGIO Venetian Engagement Ring Featuring 0.50ct. of round brilliant diamonds to enhance a round diamond center.

VERRAGIO Insignia Engagement Ring Featuring 0.55ct. of pave' set round brilliant-cut diamonds to enhance a round diamond center.

VERRAGIO

VERRAGIO

Parisian Engagement Ring Featuring 0.30ct. of pave' set round brilliant-cut diamonds to enhance a round diamond center with rose gold shoulders.

Insignia Engagement Ring Featuring 0.55ct. of princess and round brilliantcut diamonds to enhance a princess cut diamond center.

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JB STAR

SIMON G

Platinum and Diamond Band

Pave Diamond Engagement Ring

ELMA GIL 18kt White Gold Diamond Engagement Ring

SIMON G Cushion Cut Yellow Diamond Ring

18kt White Gold Diamond Fashion Band

MICHAEL M Split Shank Diamond Engagement Ring

MICHAEL M Triple Row Pave Diamond Engagement Ring

MICHAEL M

MICHAEL M

Diamond Engagement Ring

Triple Row Graduated Diamond Engagement Ring

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BREUNING Silver Design Collection: Sterling Silver, Yellow Gold with White Shapphires Necklace, Earrings and Ring

BELLE ÉTOILE Butterfly Kisses Collection Sterling and Enamel Pendant Sterling and Enamel Ring Sterling and Enamel Bangle Sterling and Enamel Earrings

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KABANA Blush Collection Chain 49 inch,14kt rose gold chain with Pink Mother of Pearl inlay stations and diamond stations

KABANA Pink Mother of Pearl and Diamonds Rose Gold Pendants (Chains sold separately)

KABANA Chocolate Collection Bronze Mother of Pearl and Diamonds Yellow Gold Pendant

KABANA Chocolate Collection Bronze Mother of Pearl and Diamonds Yellow Gold Earrings

KABANA Pink Mother of Pearl and Diamonds Rose Gold Earrings

KABANA Chocolate Collection Bronze Mother of Pearl and Diamonds Yellow Gold Ring

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KABANA Pink Mother of Pearl and Diamonds Rose Gold Ring

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FANA White Gold Diamond Ring

FANA White Gold Diamond and Sapphire Pendant

SIMON G 18K White Gold Ring with Round White Diamonds

SIMON G 18K White Gold Pendant, 60ctw Round White Diamonds .15ct Round White Center Diamond

FANA White or Yellow Gold Diamond Gemstone Ring.

Avalible with Emerald, Ruby or Sapphire (Each ring sold separately)

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MONTBLANC Platinum Line Classique Rollerball

MONTBLANC Meisterst端ck Montblanc Diamond Rollerball

MONTBLANC Meisterst端ck Solitaire Carbon & Steel Rollerball

STEL Mens Stainless Steel and Titanium Bracelets

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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 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 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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THE BOLD TITANIUMS TIME REVEALS A NEW MASCULINITY. MOVADO BOLD™ BRACELET WATCH WITH 46MM TITANIUM CASE. BLACK DIAL/ORANGE ACCENTS. MOVADO.COM

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Mike Gabrail’s Tosa Cigars

By Lyndon Conrad Bell

Over the years, the nature of cigar smoking has changed.

Today, it’s a lifestyle experience.

Long associated with wealth, power and virility, those aspects of the activity are still a part of the allure, however cigars also engender a sense of camaraderie when enjoyed in an appropriate social setting.

Another change, the enjoyment of a fine cigar is no longer limited to men as in the past. One of the sexiest sights you’ll ever see is a beautiful woman enjoying a Churchill cigar.

With all of these factors in mind, Mike Gabrail founded Tosa Cigars.

The name Tosa comes from the Aramaic word for Gabrail and dates back for centuries.

Long a cigar aficionado, Gabrail longed to create his idea of the perfect cigar.

Working with the Toraño Family Cigar Company based in Miami, Gabrail set about assimilating the ultimate blend of tobaccos. In the Toraños, Gabrail found the ideal partner for his fledgling enterprise.

The Toraño family started growing tobacco in Cuba in 1916. By 1959, the family owned and operated some 17 tobacco farms on the island.

After the Cuban revolution, the family moved their operations to the Dominican Republic and continued their tradition of growing leaves for some of the best handcrafted cigars in the world. They eventually expanded to Nicaragua, Ecuador and Mexico, before transitioning from growing to manufacturing.

Extremely well respected in the world of fine cigars, the Toraño Family Cigar Company is known for producing some of the best smokes the world has ever known. Thus, when Gabrail decided to produce his own cigar — knowing success comes more readily when you associate yourself with the best — he sought a partnership with the Toraños.

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Extremely well respected in the world of fine cigars, the Toraño Family Cigar Company is known for producing some of the best smokes the world has ever known.

Crafting carefully, Gabrail and the Toraños worked together for over 10 months artfully combining and testing until Gabrail arrived at his superlative blend, the Tosa Reserva 22. The Reserva 22 wrapper is a Habano Ecuadorian leaf, the binder is a Dominican Olor, and the filler contains Dominican Corojo ligero and seco; as well as tobaccos from Peru and Nicaragua.

Blended in three sizes; Robusto, Toro and Churchill; the Tosa Reserva 22 has been described as exhibiting a pre-lit aroma of compost and coffee. Upon firing, its initial billow gives off flavors of spice, much like pepper — but with hints of cinnamon against an earthy background.

Three quarters of an inch in, the Tosa settles into its stride, emitting complex and tasty morsels of earth, mild cedar and coffee.

Its spice at that point mellows into a fine coating, both complimenting and surrounding the other flavors.

As the middle of the cigar is approached, the Reserva 22 delivers the flavor of coffee — much like dark French roast, but with its earthiness still in attendance. Hints of mild sweetness emerge approaching that of toffee, with the spice still showing — but more in the exhale than the draw. Just beyond that point, soft leather emerges as the ending is approached.

Finally, the Tosa leaves you with leather, black coffee and earth as the spice loses its ever-present faint sweetness to give more of a pepper burst.

Tosa cigars, much like the man who crafted them, deliver an exceptionally complex and satisfying experience. To learn more about Tosa cigars and Gabrial’s definitive philosophies regarding cigar smoking in general, visit the Tosa Cigar website at TosaCigars.com.

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By Nichole Odijk DeMario Brunch, that delightful meal that combines menu items of both breakfast and lunch and has entertaining written all over it. If you prefer to delight an intimate or even large group of guests with the ultimate brunch during the warmth of summer, it can all be accomplished within the comforts of home.

Executive Chef and Owner of My Private Chef, Christopher Tong, has been creating and coordinating upscale private gourmet dining experiences for 30 years. Brunch is a food connoisseur favorite, but it can also be the entertainer’s favorite because of its creative options. Tong says the ultimate summer brunch takes advantage of seasonal and exotic fruits and vegetables.

He says guests thoroughly enjoy a chef attended gourmet omelet, crepe or waffle station. Flavors should be vibrant and ingredients should vary in color to give dishes that pop. He likes to balance flavors of sweet and savory, which makes the meal that much more enjoyable.

Fresh herbs and produce add visual interest. For a unique touch, edible flowers can add to both the menu and dĂŠcor.

Teriyaki marinated Ahi Tuna served in a Cucumber Cup with Yellow Bell Peppers and Mirco Greens photo: My Private Chef, Inc.

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Prosciutto Ham, Brie Cheese and Quail Egg on tasted Brioche photo: My Private Chef, Inc.

Citrus Salad

photo: My Private Chef, Inc.

Beverage choices are equally as important. Along with serving traditional brunch drinks such as Mimosas or Bloody Marys, serve exotic drinks with fresh juices, fruit, melon and herbs.

Presentation does not have to be lost with home entertaining. In fact, it’s an opportunity to let personal touches shine. For intimate affairs, Tong recommends plating the food in multiple courses and in smaller portions.

Some items can be served in individual cups or smaller bowls which adds to the presentation, while controlling portion size.

One of the most important factors to consider, he says, is to know your guests and their tastes to ensure all palettes are satisfied.

To add elegance to the presentation, Chef Tong says colorful flowers, linens, serve ware, flatware and china along with lighting by candlelight are ideal.

He adds, “The atmosphere and presentation matter as much as the food.�