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DEBUT 07
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Gentlemen’s Not Just Clubs: for the Boys Anymore?
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DEBUT 2007 PUBLISHER’S LETTER
Genesis of a Magazine I remember being about thirteen years old, sitting on my princess twin bed across from my sister’s matching side of the room, flipping through the pages of her teen style magazine. At thirteen I was already entrepreneurial, having started one business and become entirely intrigued by the art of conceptualization and let’s face it, moneymaking. I stared at the pictures initially, but was not entirely impressed. I remember thinking, “Well, what do you read when you are not a ‘teen’ anymore?” I went downstairs, found some of my mother’s fashion and gossip publications, as well as some of my dad’s favorites, and started looking at those. At the time, I thought my question was answered, as all of those magazines were geared toward readers through age 30 or 35, and who cares what happens to people older than that, right? In my thirteen year-old mind I speculated that I would be married, wrinkled and knitting in a rocking chair on the porch, as my children studied their homework in my very, very clean, white-picket fenced property, just before my handsome husband made his way home from work. Well, I am 30-plus years of age. I am divorced and quite pleased about
having been single for the past five years. I had children at a young age, so they are quite independent, happy and well traveled. I am not the custodial parent, but I have joint custody and fit into what one might consider the typical divorced male role, that of visitations, summers, long weekends and extended telephone calls. My children are now teenagers, so even if they were to live with me full time, as the option has been presented to them, I would still be quite career-driven and working toward the same goals. Here we are, in this country of about 16 million adult men and 17 million adult women, all single and over the age of 30 years. We are mature yet fun-loving. We are the most lucrative and sought-after consumer group. We are discerning yet not tight with our money. We enjoy the good life of leisure but also favor the accomplishments achieved in a hard day’s work. Also, much to the contrary of what I expected as that thirteen year old, we are damn good-looking, fashionable, sexual and social! There it is, the reason behind the genesis of Magazine BLU. As the publisher and creator of BLU I am single, social and sexual. I am part of my own demographic. Thus, BLU has been designed, with much input from potential readers, interested parties and people on the street, for me, for you and for everyone who wants much of what we experience and desire every day as young, energetic and single people, on the pages of a magazine that is classically-styled, fashionable, interesting, sexy, responsible, captivating, thought-provoking and, most importantly, fun. We at Magazine BLU look forward to bringing you, the reader, our best efforts in depiction of what it means to be over age 30 and single, whether singledom is due to never having been married, widowing, one divorce, two divorces, three divorces…or more. We pass no judgment on why you are single or why you might choose to remain unmarried for the rest of your life, or even if we eventually lose you to that other demographic, that of married couples. We simply choose to celebrate who we are and our state of being a group of individuals. Over the next months, as we roll out the publication digitally to start, then in print and distributed throughout the United States and Canada, moving from being a bi-monthly and then the Holy Grail of monthly in 2008, I ask for your feedback, requests and comments, so we may ensure that as we grow from the status of fledgling to that of revered, we gracefully evolve into all you desire most in a niche magazine. Best wishes to all and happy reading!
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The photograph to the left, entitled “Cigar Girl,” was a strong influence in the overall tone of Magazine BLU. It was utilized to depict the desired theme to contributors, so they could relate to the magazine’s concept. In viewing their work over the next hundred or so pages, I think that you will agree they are on the right track. Creative Director/Model: Kimberly Toms. Photographer: Frank S. Trent. 02
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MAGAZINE
BLU
Debut 07 Volume 1 Issue 1
FEATURES
08 CITY OF INDEPENDENCE
Philadelphia is more than Cheesesteaks and the Liberty Bell, with unlimited history, famed museums and plenty of shopping to help you embrace your own “oneness.”
21 A RETURN TO TOURISM “AS USUAL” We put aside the collective memory of that femme fatale who breezed through New Orleans, packed our bags and decided, Laissez les bon temps rouler!”
38 SEXY, SLEEK & READY TO ROLL Man has long had a love affair with automobiles. Beyond the aerodynamic styling and crash-test ratings of today’s cars remain memories of the classics that just make you want to hit the road. By Scott Pruden.
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45 HONEY, CAN I GO, TOO?
Gentlemen’s clubs have seen an increased occurrence of women in the audience. But, who are these women and why are they there? By Helene Golembek.
49 RESTRICTIVE HISTORY
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Once symbolic of aristocracy, socioeconomic stature and discipline, corsets evolved over hundreds of years, then fell out of fashion as women rebelled against restrictive and uncomfortable garments. Men, however, embraced the once utilitarian necktie, quickly transforming it into a bold fashion statement that thrives to this day. By Kimberly Toms with Kristen Held.
71 MICROBREWS OF THE NORTHEAST Whether your fave is porter or stout, pilsner or dark...we discovered some of the best beers in the U.S. are made in the Northeast. Hope you’re thirsty, because we’re serving them all to you. By Curt Riedy.
81 SOCIAL DWELLING:
LOFTS AND BROWNSTONES
Lofts and brownstones have become the preferred city dwellings of so many single socialites. Some Philly residents give us a glimpse into their spaces that entertain in style. By Kimberly Toms with Profiles by Kate Wright.
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93 NATURE IN THE LENS
A focus on the motivation of an adventurous financial planner with a strong talent for capturing the wilds on film. By Curt Riedy.
97 FROM DATING TO 12 STEPS Is Is Internet Internet dating dating addictive? addictive? Online Online daters daters are are becoming becoming more more savvy savvy regarding regarding acceptable acceptable norms norms in in the the realm realm of of cyber-socialization, cyber-socialization, as as well well as as of of the the red red flags flags of of abnormal abnormal behavior. behavior.
DEBUT 2007
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DEPARTMENTS
17 IT WORKS!
Philadelphia’s newest dining experience inhabits one of the City of Brotherly Love’s favorite landmarks.
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35 ON COMMON GROUND
The space between two cities so geographically distant is bridged by a glimpse into small things they have in common.
48 THE FLIP SIDES
What do each of the sexes think about women’s interest in going to the boys’ clubs? By Helene Golombek.
53 ROMANCE BOUND
Captivating corsets to inspire admiration and romance.
62 HANDS, WRIST, NECK
Bind yourself in decadently in metals, gems, textures and colors.
75 REMEMBER ME
Ladies, take off that power suit once in a while! All too often, we check our feminine side at the boardroom door. Remember your external beauty, even if just for one night.
99 GADGETS
Windows Vista just released in January. What new toys should you consider when you upgrade?
101INVITATION TO EXERCISE
One home exercise machine gained our respect and actually entices us to stay fit, despite little square footage. In fact...it is beckoning now.
75 IN EVERY ISSUE
02 PUBLISHER’S LETTER 06 CONTRIBUTORS 102 JEFF WYATT’S MUSINGS
L.A. based comedian Jeff Wyatt reflects on dating and dishes out his perspective on women. By Jeff Wyatt.
103 KATIE DID IT!
What is Katie up to? Is she facing her fears through adventuresome socialization, making observations, or has she just recovered from another really “interesting” date? By Katie O’Neal.
104 LAGNIAPPE
A little something extra to spice up your life.
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DEBUT 2007
MAGAZINE
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BLU KIMBERLY TOMS PUBLISHER EDITOR-IN-CHIEF kimberlytoms@magazineblu.com OFFICE / INQUIRIES: 4217 RIDGE AVENUE LOFT 2 PHILADELPHIA, PA 19129 267.286.7466 info@magazineblu.com
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DIGITAL EDITION
Magazine BLU is digitally published bimonthly, following availability of Volume 1 Issue 2 in May 2007 by Nola Blue Media, Philadelphia, PA. SUBSCRIPTIONS: First issue FREE via the World Wide Web. Subsequent issues, US: $4.95 per issue; Canada: $5.95 per issue. Digitally subscriptions entitle recipient to free print editions, as hard copy distribution becomes available. Copy and unauthorized distribution prohibited. Reprints available through inquiry at info@magazineblu.com. All rights strictly reserved, and reproduction in whole or in part is expressly prohibited without prior written permission from the publisher. Copyright 2007. Printed (both digitally and hard copy editions) in the USA. Byline contributors’ views do not necessarily represent opinions of the publisher. MAGAZINE BLU: DEBUT 2007; VOLUME 1 ISSUE 1
This issue is dedicated to the following: Mom, Dad & Kelly Emmy and Mister B: For egging me on and days of giggles Allison Elizabeth: I love you always, no matter what Superman: For the kick in the pants, circa 1993 Heidi: For your sweetness and encouragement in the rough Beehive Ladies: The BEST EVER! You always make me feel fab TR: May you find peace and happiness in life FM & MS: Real world women, a pleasure to work with Dark Phalanx: For reading EVERYTHING I write PReh, the Margraffs: Effort above and beyond call of duty EO: For tons of hilarious fodder The City of New Orleans and, most recently, Christopher: For making me laugh and remember how far I have come in this thing we call life, as well as how much fun it all really is
DEBUT 2007
DEBUT 2007 CONTRIBUTORS
Debut 07 Volume 1 Issue 1
Curt Riedy began his writing career at Kutztown University, where he graduated with a BA in Professional Writing. He has since written for multiple newspapers and magazines with a focus on the arts, film and music.
Helene Golombek is a passionate traveler, having most recently been to Scotland, Belize and the Mayan Riviera. Equally as energetic about fitness, she is taking healthy living a lot more seriously in her thirties than ever before. She aspires to run her first marathon within the next year. Helene brings a fresh perspective in her natural, uninhibited style of writing.
Scott Pruden aspired to become a published writer as early as age ten. Upon graduating from the University of South Carolina with a degree in Journalism, he launched his career in the world of newspapers by covering local news, politics, business, crime and public interest. He then progressed into a weekly opinion column. Currently Scott writes for several lifestyle and feature magazines.
Sundance Films and QVC are only two of the esteemed clients for whom Rafael Henin has worked. Utilizing a great eye for color and composition, he shoots subjects and in settings ranging from highly commercial to creative.
Kristen Held holds a BA in Journalism from Gettysburg College in Pennsylvania. A talented and experienced writer and editor, Kristen is educated in, and enjoys writing about, a diverse range of subjects, such as health, sports, fashion, executive life, sociology, politics, home, garden and women's issues.
Mark Margraff lives, breathes and exudes his own creative and commercial artistic style. He shoots regularly around Philadelphia and works with top advertising agencies and publications. He is passionate about both his work and his wife, Susan, an internationally trained stylist and makeup artist with whom he often collaborates.
Kate Wright has been writing since she was seven years old. Along with penning stories and articles, she considers travel a great passion and has combined her pastimes to create a freelance career. She has recently returned from South Africa, Morocco and Costa Rica, enthusiastically chronically the experiences of each journey. Further, she has written about relationships, cuisine, nightlife, culture and other subjects.
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Patricia Reh doesn't recall when photography became a significant part of her life; she just remembers it always being there. Armed as a graduate of The Art Institute of Philadelphia with a degree in Photography, her primary focuses are of portraiture and fine art. She has been published in several magazines and recently showed in New York City.
A New York comedian with a wit ranging from jovial to acerbic depending on the subject. Jeff has spent the past year delighting audiences, be it in a comedy club or his first passion, poetry readings.
Daniel Mezick graduated with a BA in Studio Art Photography from Lycoming College. He has worked on shoots ranging from corporate portraiture to editorial magazine spreads, commercial products, advertising campaigns and large book publications. DEBUT 2007
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City
Solitude
Finding Introspection In America’s 5th Largest Metro By Kimberly Toms
A single chair remains under the cathedral-ceilinged skylight of an Eastern State Penitentiary prisoner’s cell. Eastern State, the first prison of its kind in the world, opened in 1829 and closed in 1971.
A Dark Gem A castle-like façade looms darkly above hip Fairmount Street, in the youthfully inhabited and resurrected section of Philadelphia known as “Art Museum.” The area’s moniker is obviously derived from its proximity to the Philadelphia Museum of Art, where Rocky first famously ran the steps. Once upon a time, in 1829, the location was about a mile and a half from the city of Philadelphia. The urban environment has now enveloped the structure, surrounding it with industry, residences and icons of art and culture. Designed by architect John Haviland (1792-1852) specifically to look and intimidate as a fortress, the 10-1/2 acre complex is Eastern State Penitentiary. Eastern State was the second-most expensive American building of its time, built in a radial floor plan, where cell blocks meet in the center, like a wheel’s hub and spokes. The new Pennsylvania System, as the model of rehabilitation was called in 1829, was to serve a solid purpose of correction of the inmate’s criminal ways. The ultimate goal for the facility was that of true penance for one’s crimes, paved by a road of confinement in complete solitude with ongoing labor. Eastern State became the template for over 300 prisons like it throughout the world. It was to be a reflective and introspective rehabilitation for the convicted, including only one man per cell for the duration of their sentence. Each cell was provided running water, central heat and flush toilets, even before the White House was so modern. When it was necessary for an inmate to leave his cell, his head was cloaked in a black hood, to maintain his anonymity and to further prevent breach of the sentence of solitude. This program of complete isolation from others was officially aban-
Background: The historic Eastern State Penitentiary. Top Right: Mugshot of Willie Sutton. Bottom Right: Bertillion of Al Capone, also referencing his post-release death. Right: Al Capone’s cell at Eastern State was far more lavish than others. All photos courtesy Eastern State Penitentiary.
doned in 1913, for a more modern, typical approach without shielding of prisoners from one another. Folklore tells that insanity of many of the confined souls led to disintegration of the method. Where prisoners once felt so alone, baseball games were eventually allowed to be played on the prison yard. One of the famous inmates, besides “Slick” Willie Sutton the bank robber and “Scarface” Al Capone the mobster, was Pep the Black Labrador Retriever. He served a sociable sentence of enlightening the lives of inmates from 1924 to approximately 1934. Pep was condemned to life at Eastern State Penitentiary by then Pennsylvania Governor Gifford Pinchot, supposedly as a life term after killing the Governor’s wife’s beloved cat, although Pinchot claimed the dog’s committal was as a morale booster for inmates. Clearly, after the early 1900’s, the mood and inmate life at Eastern State Penitentiary lightened drastically, whatever the cause. Closed in 1971 and now a Penology Museum, the penitentiary is open for tours between April and November of every year. Over 100,000 visitors wander the grounds and cell blocks annually, marveling at the restored areas, catwalks, cathedral-like cellblocks, Al Capone’s cell from his sentence of 1929 to 1930, and the depicted escape tunnels that made their way under the eight-foot thick fortress walls to hopedfor freedom. Eastern State Penitentiary now allows unprecedented access to this unique monument of reform from the youth of our nation. Visitors are allowed to wander self-guided through so much of the facility (with or without highly captivating audio narrated by Steve Buscemi of Fargo and Armageddon) that you leave with a clear perspective of what everyday solitude was like for over 75,000 people who served time during the heyday of this historic site.
Top Left: Cell Block F i v e . To p C e n t e r a n d To p R i g h t : Abandoned cells. B o t t o m : A r e f u rbished cell, just as it would have been during a prisoner’s s t a y. A l l p h o t o s courtesy Eastern State Penitentiary.
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If going to prison is not your idea of finding your “oneness,” then consider the rest of the city of Philadelphia, America’s fifth largest metropolis. Very few places in the United States can match the wealth of tangible American history as is available to any tourist here. Ask any resident what you should do or see first and they are sure to answer, “Well, have you seen the Liberty Bell?” But, what is beyond the Bell? Now of course, one must certainly stop and pay homage to our most famous and historic (slightly cracked) icon. Yet, isn’t there more to our original Capital City than that? Oh, there is so much more. Just be sure you bring your walking shoes, the ones that look nice enough to wear in a posh restaurant. Philadelphia offers all of the bustle, noise, skyscrapers and cosmopolitan living that one would expect from a metropolis of its size and population. It is shiny and new, polished steel and glass, coupled with the quaint and cobble stoned, wrought iron and masonry. For a solo traveler, or a couple seeking to enjoy a quiet and romantic getaway, Philly is probably not high on the list of destination prospects. But, a little realized fact is that one (or a pair) can find solitude and introspection, even romance, amongst Philadelphia city life, the same oneness that I have found in the most remote areas of our country, including Denali, the Sawtooth Mountains and the far reaches of the Rockies. Oneness is there in the second largest city in the Northeast, you simply must look beyond the metropolitan dressings to see it. Do you envision crowds of people, briefcases in hand and car horns blaring during the crunch toward office life? Wrong. Philadelphia is populous, yes. But, the city’s “downtown” sidewalks do not have extreme elbow-to-elbow crowds during even the most hectic times of a commuter’s day, with the exceptions of roadway traffic and some area trains, of course. The city was well-planned from its founding in 1681 and that thoughtful expansion has continued through modern times, so that one never senses overcrowding or the claustrophobic feeling of being lost in a sea of people, as can be felt at rush hour in Manhattan or other large cities. Sure, there are many commuters. But, maintaining your own personal space is not difficult. Thus, a visitor unfamiliar with the area can enjoy continuing their tours or sightseeing, even on a Monday morning when locals dash about as part of their routine. You can stop and contemplate a street scene in the middle of Center City or at famed City Hall at any time of day, without feeling rushed, pushed or encroached upon by inhabitants. On weekends, you might even walk John F. Kennedy Boulevard and have most of the sidewalk to yourself. Beyond the absence of an overwhelming city “crush,” Philadelphia has invested so much time, energy and expense in building and maintaining itself as a welcoming, green, art-centered tribute of both our country’s founding and its imperialistic reign at the forefront of the Industrial Revolution. The city seems to be geared toward beauty and contemplative thought. In fact, where else can you stand under a giant clothespin or walk amongst huge game pieces within steps of a City Hall, and then stride a little further to visit some of the most spectacular examples of art collection and scientific tribute in the world? Clearly this is a place with an endearing sense of humor, one where childlike fascination in the everyday runs parallel to the ingenuity and exploration of intellectuals and philosophers. Quiet Reflection So how do you “find yourself” in the midst of so much action and movement, as any city presents? Simply book a wonderful hotel room (particularly at a property offering spa treatments or a fitness center), don some comfortable clothes and shoes, turn on your iPod and start walking. The best of Philadelphia is at your feet, connected by massive and well-maintained sidewalks enabling you to stroll in silence from your hotel to Independence Hall, Old City to the Philadelphia 11
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Museum of Art, Fairmount Park to Eastern State Penitentiary, shopping to restaurants and back to your luxurious room again. If walking is not your preference, grab a trolley, taxi, train, horse carriage or bus. As you proceed throughout Philly, stop and contemplate the architecture. Venture beneath City Hall’s massive archways into the central courtyard. Take in the exhibits at any and all of the museums. Visit Al Capone’s prison cell. Walk, absorb and really see our history, past and present. In doing so, you will find moments that awaken you to who we were as a country, who we are now and how your part is bigger than you expected. After all, Philadelphia is the City of Independence, where a group of individuals joined together to form a more perfect One. Hotels Large and Small The Rittenhouse Hotel has hosted Oprah Winfrey, Tom Hanks and Bill Clinton, among others. It is AAA Five Diamond, the utmost of luxury and service, in posh yet quaint Rittenhouse Square. 98 guest rooms are appointed with marble bathrooms and the hotel boasts one of the most reputable spa/salons of the region, Adolf Bieker. Also on site is Lacroix Restaurant, with famed chef Jean-Marie Lacroix a t c o m m a n d . 2 1 0 We s t R i t t e n h o u s e S q u a r e ; 2 1 5 . 5 4 6 . 9 0 0 0 ; www.rittenhousehotel.com.
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Previous Page: Philadelphia’s City Hall on Avenue of the Arts; This Page, Top Left: Aerial view of Center City Philadelphia, including the Museum of Art (Both photos by B. Krist, Courtesy GoPhila.com/GPTMC); Bottom Left: Historic Latham Hotel Exterior; Bottom Right: Latham Hotel Lobby.
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The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Philadelphia, located in a historic landmark building (the Girard/Mellon Bank), is in the heart of Philadelphia’s business district. There are 299 guest rooms with world-class service, as well as The Grill Room restaurant, The Vault lounge and The Rotunda for light dining, tea by day, cocktails by night. 10 Avenue of the Arts; 215.523.8000; www.ritzcarlton.com.
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Loews Philadelphia Hotel is a 585-room gem located in the former Philadelphia Savings Fund Society building, the first internationalstyle, modernist high rise. Includes a 15,000 square-foot wellness and spa facility, Balance Spa and Fitness, as well as a 20-meter, h e a t e d l a p p o o l a n d c a r d i o c e n t e r. 1 2 0 0 M a r k e t St r e e t ; 1.800.LOEWS12; www.loewshotels.com.
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Sofitel Philadelphia Hotel is located in the former Philadelphia Stock Exchange Building in the new “French Quarter” of Center City. 4-star+ accommodations are offered via 306 very large guest rooms with attention to every detail, including the French chocolates left on your pillow in the evenings. Chez Colette is the hotel’s restaurant, in addition to a wonderfully hip little lounge La Bourse, known to host local celebrities and the very chic for cocktails and peoplewatching. 120 South 17 th Street; 215.569.8300; www.sofitel.com.
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The Latham Hotel is a classically designed and appointed European boutique hotel, located in Center City. It is a member of Historic Hotels of America, was built in 1907 and offers 139 primarily Victorian-style rooms. 135 South 17 th Street; 215.563.7474; www.lathamhotel.com.
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Penn’s View Hotel is housed in a former warehouse building of 1828. Now on the National Register of Historic Places, Penn’s View won awards from the City of Philadelphia for its renovations of the once vacant building. Although not as posh as the other hotels we have listed, Penn’s View is located conveniently in the heart of Old City, allowing for convenience and quick access to the quaint historic areas of the city. 40 rooms. Front and Market Streets; 215.922.7600; www.pennsviewhotel.com.
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A Bit of History National Constitution Center – Learn more about “We the People” than you were ever taught in grammar school. This 16,000 square foot facility houses a myriad of exhibits and interactive displays devoted to the explanation and preservation of our inalienable rights. Adult tickets are $9 and active-duty military are free with current military identification. The Center is open during standard business hours Monday through Friday, until 6pm on Saturday and for five hours (12pm to 5pm) on Sundays. 525 Arch Street; 215.409.6600; www.constitutioncenter.org.
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Liberty Bell Center – The most renowned symbol of freedom, The Liberty Bell, is elegantly poised in the new Liberty Bell Center, with views of Independence Hall as a dramatic backdrop. Once upon a time, the Bell rang to call colonists to convene for the first public reading of the Declaration of Independence. The Center’s experience goes beyond merely looking at a bell. A visit encompasses interesting points you may not have learned in school, including some unique cultural uses of the Liberty Bell’s image in product marketing throughout our history, as well as its motivation of abolitionists and suffragists toward succeeding in their once-lofty efforts. Free admission. Market Street, between 5 th and 6 th Streets; 215.965.2305; www.nps.gov/inde/. Independence Hall – In an act of defiance under the King of England, our forefathers gathered at Independence Hall in 1776 to start the process of our nation’s birth. For free admission (timed ticket reservations), you can walk where Franklin, Washington and others walked and hear explanations of each room, while guided by a National Park Ranger. Beyond its apparent history, the building is an excellent example of Georgian architecture in the early days of our country. 5 th and Chestnut Streets; 215.965.2305; www.nps.gov/inde/.
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Christ Church – Founded in 1685, Christ Church was the first Anglican parish in Pennsylvania. The existing building (circa 1727), is long-considered one of the finest Georgian structures in the United States, with a steeple that was financed by a lottery organized by Benjamin Franklin. George Washington, Benjamin Franklin, Betsy Ross, Benjamin Rush and many other historic figures worshipped here. You may tour the facility during designated hours, or even attend a standard Episcopal service on days of worship. For a tour, a donation of $3 per adult is recommended. Ensure you also tour the Christ Church Burial Ground, where you can pitch a penny onto Franklin’s grave, in tribute to his adage, “A penny saved is a penny earned.” The Burial Ground costs $2 per adult. Christ Church is located at 2 nd Street above Market. The Burial Ground is separate, on Arch Street between 4 th and 5 th; 215.922.1695; www.oldchristchurch.org.
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Carpenter’s Hall – Home of the First Continental Congress of 1774, this wonderful building of Flemish bond brick pattern (Georgian architecture) is worth a visit. When the beginning of our United States was a dream, as the first acts of brave defiance against England were enacted, Carpenter’s Hall was the setting. Admission is free. 320 Chestnut Street; 215.925.0167; www.carpentershall.org.
Bottom: Independence Hall at night; Inset: The Liberty Bell with Independence Hall in the background (Both photos by R. K e n n e d y, C o u r t e s y GoPhila.com/GPTMC).
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Must-Do Museums Philadelphia Museum of Art – Beyond the steps of Rocky Balboa fame lies a spectacular building reminiscent of Greek temples that is the third largest art museum in the country, as well as one of the most captivating collections to explore. Whether El Greco or Miro, Cezanne or Eakins are your preference, you will find yourself with hours of galleries, reproduction rooms and special exhibits to ponder. Of special note are the permanent Arms & Armor gallery featuring weaponry and protective shields of princes, kings and nobility; Costumes & Textiles, sometimes including the wedding gown of Princess Grace of Monaco (formerly Grace Kelly of Philadelphia); and Modern & Contemporary Art, including works by Picasso, Matisse, Miro and O’Keefe. The café offers an enjoyable mid-tour break for lunch (as you can spend an entire day in the Museum) and the gift shops have fabulously tasteful souvenirs that will outlive the typical kitsch. Given some time and energy after your Museum visit, exit through the back doors into the gardens and sculpture collections of Fairmount Park. Paved paths provide easy and clear access for walkers, bikers or runners to travel parallel to the Schuylkill River, while enjoying Azalea gardens, lush landscapes and uniquely situated large sculptures along the way. For the Museum, adult tickets are $12 and the hours are Tuesday through Sunday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sundays are “Kids Days,” so be aware of the youthful exuberance of Sundays, if that is not your style. 26 th Street at the Benjamin Franklin Parkway; 215.763.8100; www.philamuseum.org.
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The Rodin Museum – Flanking the Philadelphia Museum of Art’s position on Benjamin Franklin Parkway is The Rodin Museum, the largest collection of Auguste Rodin’s (French, 1840-1917) sculptures outside of Paris. The Rodin Museum is located in the midst of elegant gardens and a welcoming building of 1929, providing a shady shelter for walks and a nice retreat to spend an hour or two perusing Rodin’s unique and thought-provoking style. Benjamin Franklin Parkway at 22 nd Street; 215.763.8100; www.rodinmuseum.org.
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The Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts – The nation’s first art museum and school of fine arts was founded in 1805 and is now located in a historic building designed in the High Victorian Gothic style by Frank Furness and George W. Hewitt in 1876. Works by Winslow Homer, Edward Hopper, Benjamin West, Lichtenstein, Cassatt, O’Keefe and many more are housed within the beautiful building that is a work of art in and of itself. Adult entry is $7. Tuesday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sundays 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Children’s Day is Saturday. Broad and Cherry Streets; 215.972.7600; www.pafa.org.
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The Franklin Institute Science Museum – Located in very close proximity to both the Philadelphia Museum of Art and the Rodin Museum, on the edge of the Benjamin Franklin Parkway, The Franklin Institute originally opened in Independence Hall in 1824 to pay tribute to the ingenuity of Benjamin Franklin. Now located in an impressive Greek-revival building dating to 1934, the Franklin Institute includes an IMAX Theater, the adjacent Fels Planetarium and Mandell Center. In the IMAX Theatre, MacGillivray Freeman’s Hurricane on the Bayou is showing through June 15, 2007. Special exhibit Tutankhamun and the Golden Age of Pharaohs is showing now through September 30, 2007, including an IMAX presentation of Mysteries of Egypt. For the King Tut exhibit, tickets must be purchased in advance. Please see the website for details. 222 St r e e t ; North 2 0 th 215.448.1200; www.fi.edu. Top: Ben Franklin Memorial at The Franklin Institute of Science (Photo by B.Krist); Center: Rodin’s “The Thinker” adorns the front walkway of the Rodin Museum (Photo by M.Stewart); Bottom: The Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts (Photo by B.Krist). All photos courtesy GoPhila.com/GPTMC.
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Imprisoned and Infirmed
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Eastern State Penitentiary – In the heart of a revived neighborhood now referred to as “Fairmount” or “Art Museum” lies a massive, dark, gothic structure that was once home to Al Capone and bank robber Willie Sutton. It is Eastern State Penitentiary, the isolationist model upon which about 300 prisons on four continents are based. The prison was active from 1829 to 1971 and had running water, central heat and flush toilets even before the White House. The prison offers guided tours, but highly recommended is the go-at-your-own-pace audio tour, for which you are provided with a headset that guides you through every major part of the prison, including to Al Capone’s lushly decorated cell. An excellent example of architecture and prison reform ideals of the time, Eastern State Pen is a must-do. Intriguing points abound throughout the facility and eleven acres of grounds, throughout which visitors are given unprecedented access without so many ropes and barricades that you might expect within a National Historic Landmark. After experiencing this unique facility, dash across the street to Jack’s Firehouse Restaurant and Pub or to one of the other area restaurants for which this neighborhood is quickly becoming known. $9 admission for adults, open April to Novemb e r. N 2 2 n d S t r e e t a t F a i r m o u n t Av e n u e ; 2 1 5 . 2 3 6 . 3 3 0 0 ; www.easternstate.org.
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Pennsylvania Hospital, America’s First Hospital – Founded by Benjamin Franklin and Dr. Thomas Bond in 1751, the Pennsylvania Hospital offers tours of its architectural grandeur, gardens, medical library and surgical amphitheatre, all dating back to the time of surgery without anesthesia. Each area of the hospital offers a magnificent portrait of the period, the practice of medicine and the patient experience of our country’s earliest days, including for the most deranged of psychiatric invalids. In the Library, some works date back as far as the 1500s and on display are preserved surgical instruments, in addition to other unique items. It is an intriguing tour that provides a glimpse into the past and an appreciation for all that has changed in the practice of medicine since! Open Monday to Friday. 800 Spruce Street; 215.829.3270; www.uphs.upenn.edu/paharc.
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Mutter Museum of the Philadelphia College of Physicians – Not for the weak stomached, yet quite fascinating, the Mutter Museum is a collection of over 20,000 items of medical and anatomical history. Launched from the collection of Philadelphia physician Thomas Mutter in 1863, the overall work provides the average Joe with a glimpse into the studies conducted by physicians in order to better understand how to prevent diseases and treat those that occur. If you can stomach it and have a general interest in medicine, science or anatomy, this museum is not to be missed. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. everyday. Adult entry is $12. 19 South 22 nd Street; 215.563.3737; www.collphyphil.org.
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Shopping, Philly Style
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Reading Terminal Market – Since 1893, Philadelphians and area chefs have shopped Reading Terminal Market for the freshest produce, meats, seafood, poultry, baked goods and flowers. Also showing a very strong presence are the Amish, bringing fresh wares and producing their specialties right before your eyes. Whether you seek an ethnic meal, traditional Philly cheesesteaks, or anything from chocolates to fruit to nibble on, a trip through Reading Terminal Market is one for the senses. Save your appetite for your visit, as you’ll want to sample a little of everything! Pottery, books, pet items and other d u r a b l e g o o d s a r e a l s o a v a i l a b l e . 1 2 t h a n d A r c h St r e e t s ; 2 1 5 . 9 2 2 . 2 3 1 7 ; www.readingterminalmarket.org.
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Center City and Old City Shopping – The Center City and Old City areas of Philadelphia offer many opportunities for shopping, including the upscale boutiques and restaurants of Rittenhouse, from Broad Street at Market to Spruce at 21 st Street, with the best-known area being Walnut Street around its intersection at 18 th . This is much of the area utilized for the film In Her Shoes, starring Cameron Diaz. Antique Row is on Pine Street between 9 th and 13 th Streets. Chinatown’s best starting place is at N. 10 th and Race Streets, running from 8 th to 12 th Streets between Filbert and Vine. Jeweler’s Row, home to hundreds of independent jewelry stores in a highly concentrated area, is located at S. 8 th and Chestnut Streets. The famed Italian Market, as seen in the Rocky movies, offers butcheries, bakeries and specialty shops reminiscent of days gone by, with a true taste of Philadelphia (and Italy) presented in every shop and stand. It is located at S. 9 th and Washington Streets.
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Germantown Avenue of Chestnut Hill – A short SEPTA Regional Rail ride on the R8 to Chestnut Hill West (about 30 minutes from Suburban Station) puts you in the heart of Chestnut Hill’s adorable and fashionable shopping district. As picturesque and quaint as a Christmas village, Chestnut Hill’s boutiques and stores range from the eclectic to designer. From formal wear to gourmet chocolates, books to bar ware, you will find plenty of items to expand your suitcase for the journey home. Wonderful restaurants and pubs are throughout the area, so finding a place to appease your appetite will not be a problem. You might even decide to stay overnight, at Chestnut Hill Hotel, where plenty of celebrities have stayed on their performance nights (reservations very necessary). 8000 to 8600 Germantown Avenue.
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Manayunk’s Main Street – Another little jaunt by SEPTA, this time on the R6 train (toward Norristown), Manayunk offers almost 70 boutiques, unique restaurants, ice cream shops, night spots and an overall experience of relaxed shopping, sightseeing and dining. This is another one of Philadelphia’s trendiest shopping areas for those who like to find the quality gifts, souvenirs and items for remembrance of a grand Philadelphia visit, or something special to wear to one of the wonderful area restaurants. Main Street Manayunk; www.manayunk.com.
Previous Page-Top: Historic Pennsylvania Hospital (Photo by B.Krist); Bottom Right: The Mutter Museum’s Collection of Human Skulls (Photo by G.Widman); Bottom Left: Eastern State Penitentiary. This Page-Top Left: Shopping in Quaint Chestnut Hill (Photo by R.Kennedy); Left Center: Rittenhouse Shopping, Burberry’s (Photo by B.Krist); Bottom Left: A seafood shop at the famed Italian Market (Photo by B.Krist); Bottom Center: Fresh flower outlet at Reading Terminal Market (Photo by K.Ciappa); Bottom Right: Friendship Arch of Philly’s Chinatown (Photo by R.Kennedy). All photos courtesy GoPhila.com/ GPTMC.
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An ample and varied water selection is a natural aspect of the menu and service at Philadelphia’s newest grand restaurant, The Wa t e r W o r k s . T h i s page, bottle storage graces the r e s t a u ra n t ’s wa l l s . Right, a bottle of Bling is the water choice for those who have the cash, or the attitude, to back up their selection. Both photos by Daniel Mezick.
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It Works
The Entrepreneurial Spirit is Flowing At The Water Works Restaurant of Philadelphia By Kimberly Toms
Several years ago, Cornell and Michigan State Universities concluded that after the first year of business, 27% of restaurant startups fail. At the three year anniversary, 50% were closed. Five years saw 60% out of business and ten years equated to 70% no longer operating. This is not as bad as the ninety percent fail rate that one generally hears on the street. But still, the business of preparing and delivering cuisine is a difficult one.
In meeting Michael Karloutsos, the restaurant business neophyte behind The Water Works, I quickly realized that insanity is not necessarily the motivator behind the polished yet exuberant gentleman founder. He is not crazy. He is a visionary. Coupled with his business partners (wife Anastasia, sister Sophia and her husband, Leonidas Agorastos) and an exceptional staff, such as Chef Adan Trinidad and award-winning Pastry Chef Chad Durkin, he is a man with a good plan.
For The Water Works Restaurant and Lounge of Philadelphia, added to that typical difficulty were the pressure of a $3.5 million renovation as part of a National Historic Landmark location and the general political struggles associated with occupation of the structure so long held dear by Philadelphians, The Waterworks of 1812.
No sooner did I walk through the door and gain an introduction to Michael, an obviously experienced fellow networker formerly involved in politics, than I was seated and plate after intricately fashioned plate of colorful cuisine started flowing to my table. The style of Water Works’ cuisine is described by the owners as “Inspired Neo-Classical.” It is, indeed, inspired. It is also infused with generations-old flavors from the Karloutsos’ roots, as well as ethnic flair representative of the wide-ranging taste of America.
The Waterworks municipal water system was built in the early nineteenth century by engineer Frederick Graff. It was one of the first municipal water systems in America and continued to provide fresh resources to the city through 1860. Although the facility had a solid purpose, its Greek Revival architecture, layout and overall beauty have attracted hundreds of thousands of people to walk its grounds since its opening. Situated on the Schuylkill River, also home to beautiful Boathouse Row, the Waterworks first utilized steam engines to lift water to the reservoir that was once located where the Philadelphia Museum of Art now stands. When a dam was eventually built across the Schuylkill, the original steam engines were replaced by river-powered water wheels. As the population of the city outgrew the functionality of the original Waterworks, and as the Industrial Revolution facilitated pollution of the river waters, the pump station was closed in 1909. Since that time, there have been several efforts to revive the beautiful facility and honor it with varied business ventures, but none have outlasted the ebb and flow of the river. Clearly, it takes guts to venture into any new business, particularly in the fickle food service genre. To open a grand restaurant at one of the most cherished National Historic Landmarks of a major city, surely the restaurateur must be either highly experienced in the business, with many dining properties under his belt, or simply crazy.
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I started with the Grilled Octopus appetizer. Typically, I am wary of ordering octopus or even calamari from an unsampled menu, as I have had some really horrible experiences of not only poor flavor, but odd texture that one knows immediately upon first bite is not supposed to be part of the experience. This Grilled Octopus, however, was highly encouraging. 18
Second was the Grilled Haloumi Cheese in a Roasted Hot Pepper sauce. The Haloumi was amply proportioned and drizzled effectively with the sauce that still allowed the cheese’s salty flavor to permeate. The Oysters Three Ways followed, a dressed trio of my favorite appetizer staple. Generally, I prefer oysters on the half shell, as I believe they require very little alteration from their natural state. However, this offering of a panko-crusted oyster with feta and spinach fondue, half-shell with mignonette and shooter with mint and Granny Smith apple was certainly a desirable variation on my typical style. The panko was just as it should be, slightly crunchy and light, and the shooter was actually refreshing, with the flavors of both the mint and the apple finding their place. Meatballs bring to mind football games and Sunday pasta, as they seem to be quite a staple here in the Northeast. I would typically not consider ordering meatballs at a restaurant and only think of them when they are placed before me. Yet, these Meatballs with Roasted Eggplant and Smoked Yellow Tomato Puree were delicately presented, if “delicate” and “meatball” may actually exist in the same sentence. They had a lightly spicy sauce, were manageable in size and served in a series of six. Grilled Lollipop Lamb Chops were equally delightful, tender and certainly worth revisiting. My absolute favorite sampling, however, was hands-down the Seared Watermelon. As a child, I was the stereotypical Southern girl, in my sundress on Grandmother’s porch, with a wedge of watermelon in my hands and juice dripping on my delicately-stitched yoke. In those days, I added salt to the fruit, as is common. There is something balancing about the sweet and salty. This balance is presented in a very classic and grown-up manner, by means of the aged balsamic vinegar, red onion and feta that dresses each manageable slice. As the watermelon is, naturally, only available in season, I cannot wait until the patches have provided enough fruit that I can enjoy this delicacy at The Water Works once more. It is a simple and light starter when compared to other menu items, but simplicity definitely has its place. Lunch fare is equally intriguing as the dinner menu, adding sandwich offerings to the other, more elegant entrees. The Crab Cake Sandwich with whole grain mustard aioli, sliced avocado and pickled Napa cabbage, and the Water Works Burger, an ample Angus beef patty stuffed with Boursin cheese and bacon, are both filling and excellent variations on a typical business lunch theme. Desserts are most often left untouched when I visit any restaurant, as they generally consist of the obligatory cheesecake, “ultimate” chocolate cake and sorbets. I have to say, though, that in several visits back to The Water Works, I have managed to enjoy most of the dessert menu. None of the items have failed to impress. Being from New Orleans, I was particularly fond of the uniquely concocted Chocolate Beignets, as created by Chad Durkin. The beignets were light and fluffy, as they should be, but in the form of a ball, with a creamy warm chocolate sauce. Equally as delightful, yet not as decadently sweet, is the Strawberry Basil Sorbet. Sorbet is generally refreshing, but this combination of the fruit and the herb were quite soothing and brought the evening to a graceful close. I have likewise sampled about a half dozen other Water Works dessert specialties in the past four months and none have disappointed, to say the least.
brand, Trump’s water, or that in which Sylvester Stallone has personal involvement, Sly. If your fluid needs to have kick, sample a martini or other libation of the adult kind, whether it is the amusing “Schuylkilltini,” complete with a red Swedish Fish at the bottom of the glass, or an award-winning scotch. Generally speaking, a restaurant’s success is primarily based upon the quality and taste of menu offerings, service, atmosphere and price. Michael Karloutsos has managed to make his first venture in the food business a valiant and commendable effort. The culinary team is creatively skilled and it seems involved executives are open-minded enough to allow taste to win over convention. The pricing seems effective and appropriate. Service is charming and interlaced with interesting personal stories that, when prompted, grace the dining experience. The Water Works’ atmosphere is describable only through a myriad of adjectives, ranging from “historic” to “romantic.” Somewhere in the list one must also incorporate elegant, yet unpretentious, refined, yet youthfully enthusiastic. The property itself is one that should never have been vacant, as it was for about 25 years. Perhaps now that the Karloutsos and Agorastos families have arrived, life will continue to be pumped into the old Engine House and the initial vision of the original Waterworks can be appreciated with greater longevity. Banquette seating in The B r e e z e w a y, and the barrel ceiling over a wall of water in The Engine House add sophistication to the historic space now occupied by The Water Works restaurant. Photos by Daniel Mezick. Famed Boathouse Ro w lends the backdrop for dining on The Water Works’ outdoor terrace. Photo by R. Kennedy, courtesy GPTMC / gophila.com.
The wine list is certainly ample and offers a steadfast and encouraging selection from which to choose. Of notable mention is the water list, wherein even the most finicky natural beverage connoisseur may find complete satisfaction, whether it is Perrier, the expensive and flashy Bling 19
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Photo courtesy of New Orleans Convention and Visitor’s Bureau/Photographer Jack Edwards.
The St. Charles Streetcar line, a major mode of transportation and sightseeing for locals and tourists alike, is now back on track on some of its historic routes and is expected to be fully operational by the end of 2007.
Cityof
Desire Amidst the Diminishing Rubble and Despite Their Pain, New Orleans Misses Us
Almost six months after the storm I made the trip back to New Orleans, as I needed to see with my own eyes that the city, the people and my heritage were going to be alright. Much like when visiting a sick family member in the hospital, you go not just to assure them you are hoping for their best, but to solidify in your own mind that they will pull through the illness and return to their normal state of being. I made travel arrangements and for the entire week prior to departure had horrid nightmares about an apocalyptic scene, something of a combination of the wrath viewed on television news and an almost lunar landscape. I felt all of New Orleans wailing, within my own breaking heart. I had always been so proud of my little history, where I am from and everything about my family that is so deeply rooted within the archives and cotton fields of Louisiana. I invited a friend along for the journey, one who had never been to Nola. I thought she would make a great travel companion and that her sense of humor would help see me through my anxiety, while I could play tour guide and show her some of the nuances my parents had shared with me. While the plane prepared to land, I looked through the clouds to the terrain below. Just as newscasters had focused heavily upon the tarps
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covering rooftops of houses in every neighborhood, I noted how drastically the vibrantly colored coverings seemed so very out of place. The city beneath me appeared like a jigsaw puzzle, one with lost pieces in the place of which a bright blue tabletop peered out through the gaps. I mechanically led my friend through the little airport and out to a hotel shuttle. I felt overwhelmingly emotional, yet did not want her to see that side of me. After all, who was I to cry, when I had a home, all of my family and possessions to which I could return? I had a certain survivor’s guilt, a textbook response of which I felt no motivation to control. Neighborhood after neighborhood was dotted with those blue plasticcoated tarpaulins. But, as we arrived onto Canal Street, familiar scenes of pseudo-normalcy started to appear. People were shopping, palm trees budding and the streetcar I rode as a child clanged down its historic path. The waterlines on building fronts were ever-present, yet I could smell a certain vibrancy in the hot, humid, musty air. As the cab buzzed into the French Quarter, there were, of course, signs posted in many windows stating special post-hurricane hours of operation and menu limitations, yet restaurants were open and bell hops bustled luggage at hotel entrances. People were actually smiling, laughing and acting quite energetic all around. They seemed to have purpose and a light spring in their steps. I had expected gloom and desperation.
Hallowed Halls The Hotel Monteleone welcomed us with a regal façade and warmly
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Photo courtesy of New Orleans Convention and Visitor’s Bureau/Photographer Richard Nowitz.
Not long after Katrina hit New Orleans, my own nightmares about effects of the devastation on that city, the place of my birth, started. I was supposed to have been in The Big Easy at the time of the storm, but luckily was unable to travel due to an illness in my family. Despite being safely in the Northeast as the turmoil hit, my little southern city was all I could think about. I felt as if I had somehow let her down by not being there to share in her pain.
sumptuous lobby. The hotel’s front doors have opened to so many legends that you can practically hear the footsteps and conversations of former guests who have adored the “sparkling jewel of Royal Street” since 1886. Tennessee Williams, William Faulkner, Truman Capote, Eudora Welty and Ernest Hemingway are just a few of the writers who found inspiration and enjoyment in the now 600-room Grand Dame of the Vieux Carre. Faulkner is written to have called Monteleone his favorite hotel and Williams mentioned the property in The Rose Tattoo. Capote joked he was born in Monteleone, when indeed his mother went into labor there, prior to her transport to the hospital. Just as the hotel is a literary landmark of days long gone, more recent writers have also found inspiration in her halls and beds, such as Winston Groom (Forrest Gump) and Richard Ford, who included a passage about her in A Piece of My Heart. As we checked in, walked to our suite and navigated the intriguing hallways, I warmed to the idea of possibly writing in one of the rooms where such masterpieces may have been born. My friend warmed to the idea of changing our flight clothes and heading out for a rambunctious night on the town. Within the hotel walls, and as the hot sun gleamed onto our suite’s window panes, I could almost easily forget my apprehension and emotion surrounding a return to New Orleans. But, as soon as we turned on the televisions to start prepping for our first evening in town, we were again bombarded by the broadcasted misery and desperation of the landscape and a sampling of residents. We dressed quickly and excitedly, eager to walk the historic neighborhoods surrounding Jackson Square and to talk to some locals about their experiences of the past months.
Upon heading out from the lobby, one simply cannot pass the Monteleone’s renowned Carousel Bar without stopping in, as it is a sophisticated yet whimsical playground for grown-ups, an actual 25seat carousel bar that turns as you comfortably sit during a slow, peaceful and liquid rotation. Many of the famed and historic authors enjoyed drinks in the unique barroom, among other celebrities of past and present, including Liberace, Michael Jordan and Dennis Quaid. We decided to sit for awhile and my friend, Megan, turned on her reliable wit and charm as we engaged the bartender and some other visitors in varied conversations. As we sat, rotating slowly and sipping the best Bloody Maries I have ever had, Megan flirted with some gentlemen about 35 or forty years our seniors, dubbing them “Pete” and “The RePetes,” as we couldn’t remember the names of two of the three. We finished our drinks, said our goodbyes and stepped out onto the storied streets of the Quarter. As we walked, stopped into stores and more than a few quaint pubs, we kept bumping into Pete and the RePetes, as there were so few people on the pre-Mardi Gras streets that faces became increasingly and eerily familiar. Megan wowed a crowd (myself included) by jumping onstage at a local karaoke bar and belting out a tune. She wanted to experience the much-popularized, wilder side of my city. I wanted to take in the familiar history, sounds of horse hooves and smell of café au lait. We compromised and combined the two agendas seamlessly over the next several days, strolling through Audubon Park, Lafayette Cemetery and the French Market for me, also visiting voodoo and mask shops, hurricane beverage vendors, tee shirt shops and Bourbon Street for her. She even managed to flirt her way into the heart of a very odd character who likened himself to a vampire, albeit with his Bluetooth lodged conveniently in his right ear. Left: Hotel Monteleone’s front doors have opened to so many legends that you can practically hear the footsteps and conversations of former guests who have adored the “sparkling jewel of Royal Street” since 1886. Top Right: Monteleone’s Carousel Bar. Both photos courtesy Hotel Monteleone. www.magazineblu.com
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Within the Bubble, Let it Roll I was surprised about the business-as-usual appearance of the “touristy” section of the city, as if it existed within a protective storm bubble. Vague and less frequent reminders of Katrina’s wrath did exist, but they were greatly less noticeable than residential parts of town and outlying areas. We walked everywhere and talked to everyone who would let us speak to them, including tourists on the streets, bartenders, engineers and workers enjoying a night out after reconstructive work of their daytime, even bouncers at a couple of adult venues. When we asked, “How are you doing,” the resounding and consistent answer was that of, “We’re doing great. We’re rebuilding and are ready to let the good times roll!” Laissez le bons temps rouler, “Let the good times roll,” is a familiar cry of Cajun origin in The Big Easy. It is the age-old mantra of revelers, particularly during Mardi Gras. It was odd to hear that phrase repeated throughout our visit, but it echoed the residents’, shopkeepers’ and restaurateurs’ overwhelming desire to revive the pulse of the city, welcome visitors and share their amazing resiliency. We spent five days in the French Quarter, on Canal Street, throughout the Garden District, even in the famed Ninth Ward and devastated neighborhoods on beautiful Lake Pontchartrain, where my own father proposed to my mother. Many buildings of the Gulf were flattened, vastly destroyed and families devastated. The effects remained clear. But, somewhere within the heart of all that is New Orleans, residents seemed to take extreme pride in welcoming outsiders, not just for added revenue from which to aid rebuilding, but because they really miss us. They want all of us, whether we are from their city originally, or first-time tourists such as Megan, to step into their home, however it was damaged, so they may bring a smile to our faces upon our tasting of the amazing cuisine, enjoyment of Mississippi River breezes while sipping chicory coffee at the Café du Monde, feeling our feet tap to the magical rhythm of authentic New Orleans jazz or sinking into the cool pillow of a sumptuous and historic hotel. In all that they have suffered and endured, the City of New Orleans is ready, poised and wanting to show others the reality, resiliency and magnetism of their Deep South. My nightmares gave way to peaceful sleep and nightly anticipation of seeing more of my favorite city. Although she was shaken, heavily bruised and dotted with blue bandages, New Orleans was not going to feign death. Throughout all of the countrywide political arguing, finger-pointing and blame associated with lack of timely and appropriate response to her demise, the remaining residents of New Orleans seemed to quietly bind together in an unspoken, unwritten pact of survival, despite the odds and excruciatingly difficult work ahead.
Above: French Quarter street (Photo by Richard Nowitz/Courtesy New Orleans CVB). Below: Jazz trumpeter on a French Quarter street (Photo by Jack Edwards/Courtesy New Orleans CVB).
One by one – as the arguments and extensive devastation continued to grab headlines – cultural venues, sports arenas, shopping centers and corner stores swept up their broken glass and restocked supplies to welcome patrons, tourists and friends. Not all of the former residents, businesses and workers have yet returned. But, for the tourist, the majority of what makes Nola an enticing travel destination is awaiting visitation. As for the remaining damage, politics and watermarks, these are lessons we as humans should absorb, react to and always remember. In combination, the good, delicious, historic, legendary and even the bad, ugly and devastated pieces of post-Katrina New Orleans continue to warmly welcome both new and old friends for a trip, vacation, lesson in life or journey of the heart that one will never forget. 25
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The World’s Most Beautiful Vodka.
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Royal Treatment, Regal Hotels New Orleans has always offered so many choices of hotels for even the most discriminating traveler. Finding one that is luxurious and convenient to most attractions is not difficult, beyond the initial decision of whether to stay in a grand property with resort amenities, a boutique historic inn or a romantic bed and breakfast with courtyard views, wherein you may be awakened in the morning by the sound of horses’ hooves on the cobblestone streets. After deciding which type of lodging you prefer, a good starting place for recommendations is the New Orleans Tourism Marketing Corporation’s website, at www.neworleansonline.com. Magazine BLU recommends time-honored favorites where we have received the most honorable service over the past decades, as well as after Katrina: Grand Hotels
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Since 1886, the Hotel Monteleone has been a French Quarter Legend. Classically elegant and recently freshened through a multimillion-dollar renovation, the Monteleone has preserved its history and grandeur that originally attracted such renowned individuals as Liberace, Louis Prima, Elvis Presley and even James Gandolfini. The hotel is one of only three in the United States to be honored with the distinguished Friends of Libraries, USA Literary Landmark designation, as the Monteleone has hosted William Faulkner, Tennessee Williams, Truman Capote and others. Three of the city’s finest dining establishments are within the hotel, including the Aft Deck Oyster Bar, The Hunt Room Grill and Le Café. Spa Aria, also within the 600-room property, offers a complete menu of luxury spa services, not far from the rooftop pool and workout facility with sweeping views of both the Mississippi River and the Vieux Carre. Beyond the obvious, the regal property offers some legendary surprises, such as a host of purported resident “ghosts” attributed to varied guests who remain loyal and attached to the property after many years (we personally did not experience any such activity). Hotel Monteleone is a AAA FourDiamond Hotel, only steps from Bourbon Street. 214 Rue Royale; 800.535.9595; www.hotelmonteleone.com.
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The Royal Sonesta, also an AAA Four-Diamond Hotel, occupies an entire city block amidst all of the excitement of the French Quarter. It consists of over 500 rooms housed around the perimeter of the block, with the courtyard and pool in the middle, where one can find quiet in the private, tropical surroundings. Four-Diamond Restaurant Beque’s offers Creole and French specialties with Friday seafood buffet and Sunday champagne brunch. Also renowned, the Desire Oyster Bar offers fresh Louisiana Seafood and Creole delicacies in a streetside bistro. Two cocktail lounges, the Coffee & Champagne bar and the Daiquiri Delight Shop are other well-known stops within the property, for both locals and visitors. 300 Bourbon Street; 800.766.3782; www.royalsonestano.com.
Top Right: Hotel Monteleone Lobby. Middle Right: Hotel Monteleone Rooftop Pool (Both photos courtesy Hotel Monteleone); Bottom Right: Royal Sonesta Lobby. Bottom Left: Royal Sonesta Courtyard Pool. Bottom Center: Royal Sonesta Courtyard Fountain (Sonesta photos courtesy Royal Sonesta Hotel New Orleans). 27
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Le Pavillon is a third AAA Four-Diamond Hotel, with a 100 year history of elegance, luxury and romance just adjacent to the French Quarter. The hotel’s lobby of chandeliers, marble and even bronze cherubs evokes the utmost of historic sumptuousness, while a personal touch of peanut butter and jelly sandwich snacks served each evening on silver platters adds a warm, genteel touch. An especially nice aspect of their offerings is the year-round rooftop pool (heated in cooler weather), hot tub, sun deck and private cabanas, with pool service menus and views of the Crescent City at your feet. 833 Poydras Street; 800.535.9095; www.lepavillon.com.
Boutique Hotels
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Chateau Sonesta is a unique, 251-room luxury hotel, located in a formerly nationally-renowned retail establishment opened in 1849 and closed in 1989. The pre-Civil War era building was then gently renovated into an upscale hotel in 1995, while preserving many unique architectural elements the original owner, D.H. Holmes, reigned over within his highly fashionable department store. The hotel now occupies a grouping of eighteen historic buildings and houses just under fifty original works of art within its structure. Three courtyards, an outdoor heated pool, sundeck and fitness center offer the balance one often needs when engaging in the ever-present culinary indulgences that make New Orleans famous. A breakfast café, cocktail bar and reputable Ralph Brennan’s Red Fish Grill are conveniently located within the property. 800 Iberville Street; 800.766.3782; www.chateausonesta.com.
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Originally a grain warehouse, the Bienville House Hotel is derived of its predecessor, the North American Hotel, which had converted the grain facility for overnight stays by 1835. The Monteleone family (also of the grand Hotel Monteleone) purchased the property in 1972 and ensured its continuance as a charming, intimate boutique hotel of 83 rooms and suites. A flagstone courtyard surrounds the private pool and distinctively New Orleanian elements such as wrought iron balconies and four sundecks add warmly romantic touches. The Louisiana Heritage Café and School of Cooking is part of the hotel’s offerings, with culinary lessons offered on Fridays and Saturdays by Chef Joseph Faroldi for guests and other visitors to learn about Cajun and Creole creations…or to simply enjoy a sumptuous meal of Crawfish Etouffee, Rajun Cajun Omelets, Seafood Beignets, Blackened Catfish or other distinctive culinary presentation. 320 Decatur Street; 800.535.9603; www.bienvillehouse.com.
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Maison DuPuy is conveniently and spectacularly positioned within the heart of the true Vieux Carre, in the section originally established as the French Quarter in 1722, along the Mississippi River. The first-class boutique hotel is built on the original site of the nation’s first cotton press of 1602 and carries a certain aura of history and authenticity that is becoming evermore unique in American hotels. In passing through the lush courtyards with fountains (particularly during the evening), through the Maison’s rooms or while enjoying a sumptuous meal at renowned Dominique’s Restaurant, one can easily sense the European flair, unique history of the city and whispered notes of authentic New Orleans jazz in the air. 1001 Rue Toulouse; 504.586.8000; www.maisondupuy.com.
Top Left: Chateau Sonesta New Orleans facade (Photo courtesy Chateau Sonesta Hotel); Middle Left: Bienville House Guest Room. Bottom Left: Bienville House Courtyard Pool. Bottom Right: Bienville House Facade (Photos courtesy Bienville House Hotel New Orleans). www.magazineblu.com
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Angels and Devils Visitors to New Orleans often imagine themselves in one of two scenarios as tourists, that of Girls Gone Wild, bead-earning and Mardi Gras partying, or as wanting to take in the plentiful historic and palate-pleasing attributes of the Deep South. For those who pride themselves as angelic by nature, yet with a devilish side (or vice versa), it is possible to combine both scenarios, particularly after partaking of a few of the famed Hurricane cocktails consisting of juices and plenty of alcohol. Perhaps the biggest challenge for a visitor is to narrow down the overwhelming selection of activities to the most optimum agenda that will provide a glimpse into the real New Orleans, while allowing for a little adult recreation after nightfall. After years of sampling, partaking and partying (in younger days) in the city, we can recommend several must-see and must-do items to add to any agenda: Food and Drink – New Orleans is the ultimate land of colorful cuisine. There are so many exceptional and famed restaurants that one cannot cover all, or even most, of them. So, our recommendations are our favorites, some time-honored and well-known throughout the world, some known primarily within Nola. We do not ask or expect a culinary tour to be limited to these selections, but the four restaurants, café and two lounges listed below should definitely be included on your itinerary.
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Café du Monde – Good grief, enough cannot be said about the addiction that is Café du Monde! Until Hurricane Katrina, the Mississippi riverfront Café had not ceased its 24-hour operations since 1862. Very quickly back on its feet and serving its delectable staples of beignets (a distinctive New Orleans pastry and state doughnut of Louisiana, dusted with excessively delightful clouds of powdered sugar) and chicory café au lait, Café du Monde is a muststop for breakfast, late night sweet-tooth satisfaction, or that sugar and caffeine high that you need in order to ensure the energy required to continue seeing and experiencing all of New Orleans. Both the dessert and the coffee bode well after a Hurricane cocktail or two! While in New Orleans, be sure to purchase a box or two of beignet mix and a couple of cans of French Market Chicory Coffee to feed your post-vacation addiction at home. Attire is “come as you are.” Walk-in, no reservations required. 800 Decatur Street; 504.581.2914.
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Olivier’s Creole Restaurant – Although barely known outside of New Orleans, Olivier’s is greatly worth mention as one of the most personable and authentic Creole dining experiences in the world. Chef Damian Banks lends his talent and expertise to time-honored recipes passed down through many generations of the Olivier family. The atmosphere is more modern than Antoine’s, Brennan’s or Court of Two Sisters, yet the Oliviers incorporate their own brand of warmth and gentility that provide for a historic dining experience. Attire is listed as casual but more deserving of dressy. Reservations recommended. 204 Decatur Street; 504.525.7734; www.olivierscreole.com.
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Court of Two Sisters – Always delightful and authentically New Orleans, the Court of Two Sisters offers the largest dining courtyard in the French Quarter, complete with gaslights, lush foliage and fountain. Particularly wellknown is their daily Jazz Brunch, with so many authentic and flavorful delights from which to choose that one is able to ensure a tasting of all of the foods for which New Orleans is famous, while enjoying a strolling jazz trio and the warmth of a genuine, attentive staff. Gourmet Creole a la carte dinners are also available, if the indulgent buffet brunch is too much of a temptation for your waistline. Attire is dressy and reservations are recommended for dinn e r. 613 Royal St r e e t ; 504.522.7261; www.courtoftwosisters.com.
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Brennan’s – Due to an amazing 35,000 bottle wine cellar
Top: The historic Cafe du Monde (Photo courtesy New Orleans CVB/Photo by Carl Purcell). Middle: Beignets and cafe au lait at the Cafe du Monde (Photo courtesy NewOrleansOnline.com/Photo by David Richmond); Bottom: Court of Two Sisters Restaurant (Photo courtesy Court of Two Sisters). www.magazineblu.com
and sumptuous meals such as the famed “Breakfast at Brennan’s,” a longstanding New Orleans tradition of three courses including their worldfamous Bananas Foster or other delightful sweet as dessert, Brennan’s has enjoyed a colorful history of serving residents and guests of the Crescent City for decades. Whether for the renowned breakfast, or for a highly romantic candle- and gaslight dinner in one of twelve elegant dining rooms dating back to 1795, the experience is unforgettable and distinctively New Orleans. Attire is dressy and men should wear a dinner jacket. Reservat i o n s a r e r e q u i r e d . 4 1 7 R o y a l S t r e e t ; 5 0 4 . 5 2 5 . 9 7 11 ; www.brennansneworleans.com.
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Antoine’s – The country’s oldest family-owned restaurant, Antoine’s was established in 1840 and is world-renowned as the birthplace of Oysters Rockefeller, Eggs Sardou and Pommes de Terre Souffles. Visit their website to view photographs of amazingly historic and uniquely designed dining rooms that are symbolic of New Orleans herself. Attire is dressy and men must wear a jacket at dinner. Reservations are highly recommended. 713 Rue Saint Louis; 504.581.3003; www.antoines.com.
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Old Absinthe House – Home of libations and people-watching for almost 200 years, Old Absinthe House is a definite destination during a French Quarter pub crawl. Pirate Jean Lafitte and Andrew Jackson are rumored to have met in the upstairs while planning the victory of the Battle of New Orleans. Weathered and quaint, stop in with a casual attitude and time to sit and watch New Orleans pass by the corner of Rue Bourbon and Rue Bienville. Pizza and other pub dinner fare is available, but lets face it…its all about the drinks, sights and sounds around the House! Clothing of some kind is expected. 240 Bourbon Street at Bienville.
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Pat O’Brien’s – A requirement when visiting New Orleans, Pat O’Brien’s offers the famed courtyard, knock-you-down Hurricanes and authentically New Orleans piano music within its unique setting. The Main Bar is very typically pub-like, complete with over 500 beer steins hanging from the ceiling and photographs of past patrons all over the walls, with a jukebox and sports television adding to the casual and comfortable appeal. The Patio is the most known location with Pat O’Brien’s, where lush foliage, glass-topped iron patio tables, a flaming fountain (with both fire and water) and open-air drinking of specialty drinks, beer and, of course, Hurricanes. The Courtyard Restaurant serves the Nola version of an extended bar menu, if the munchies or justified hunger pangs take over. Another option, The Piano Bar, is always inviting yet crowded, but one simply must endure the wait for a seat, as the dueling pianos and Hurricane service to green-cushioned chairs are definitely worth the visit. Finally, the Restaurant Bar is also part of Pat O’s and fashioned after the Main Bar. There, you can have your drinks and satisfy your stomach with some pub fare from the Courtyard Restaurant while engaging in interesting, intoxicating conversation mixed with Hurricanes or other beverages. Whatever your poison, you will always leave Pat O’Brien’s with a trademark signature Hurricane glass, so although you may not be fully coherent at the time of your departure, you will inevitably be reminded of your visit, as you raise the glass in subsequent toasts. Casual attire. Open until 5 a.m. on weekends, closes early at 4 a.m. on weekdays! 718 St. Peter Street; 504.525.4823; www.patobriens.com.
Top Left: Brennan’s Restaurant facade. 2nd From Top: One of Brennan’s dining rooms (Photos courtesy Brennan’s Restaurant). 3rd From Top: Antoine’s Restaurant Facade. Bottom: Antoine’s front walk (Photos courtesy www.NewOrleansOnline.com). 30
Tours
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Gray Line Tours – Onboard the Steamboat Natchez, one of only six remaining historic steamboats on the Mississippi, enjoy an authentic river cruise reflective of the days of cotton plantations and gentility on the mighty river, while live jazz is played by the ship band. Sights include the Chalmette Battlefield, where Jean Lafitte and his buccaneers joined Andrew Jackson’s forces to defeat the British in the Battle of New Orleans. Have a traditional New Orleans breakfast of beignets and chicory coffee at the Café du Monde first (you’ll end up wanting to do that every day), enjoy the paddlewheel river tour that embarks just steps from the Cafe, then stop into the Jax Brewery for some light shopping after your cruise, while you regain your land legs. Boat tour reservations should be made one day prior (by 4pm) and the cost is approximately $50 per person, including 2-hour cruise, 2-hour tour and onboard Creole lunch. Gray Line also offers a variety of other tours, including swamp boats, ghosts & spirits tours and many more. 800.535.7786; www.graylineneworleans.com.
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“Cities of the Dead” Cemetery Tours by the Save Our Cemeteries, Inc – A very worthwhile and surprisingly low cost of $6 affords a tour of famed Lafayette Cemetery No. 1 or $12 for St. Louis Cemetery No. 1, hosted by a highly knowledgeable and engaging local volunteer. New Orleans has buried its dead in a very unique manner for centuries and these deeply historic settings provide for peaceful, quiet mid-morning walking tours that will be remembered for a lifetime…and perhaps beyond life! This is a must-do for lovers of history, religion, forensics, culture, society and any preservationist personality. Tours begin at 10:00 a.m. or 10:30 a.m. on particular days, so do research and make arrangements either prior to departure for Nola, or early in your stay. Don’t forget your comfortable shoes! 504.525.3377; www.saveourcemeteries.org.
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Horse-Drawn Carriage Tours – Both Royal Carriage Tours and Good Old Days Tours offer mule and horse-drawn carriage rides around the French Quarter. As often as you might pass one of these by within other cities, opting to not ride, New Orleans is a city in which the $50 (for up to 4 people for a half hour) or $100 (up to 4 people for a full hour) is definitely a worthwhile expenditure. A personable and colorful guide will route your carriage slowly and artfully through the Quarter’s historic streets, pointing out shops, galleries, historic sites and other places you’ll want to note, such as Tennessee Williams’ house, the famed “Stella!” Annual Shouting Contest balcony (a tribute to his A Streetcar Named Desire), places visited by Napoleon, courtyards, iron-lace balconies and so much more. Our lovely guide even stopped at a historic pub, whistled for a server and ordered beverages for us, served while we remained comfortably relaxed upon our tufted velvet seats! Be prepared to be social during your ride, as it seems everyone wishes to say “hello” and converse with you as you clip-clop down the quaint streets. Do not forget the camera. No reservations needed, simply approach a parked carriage and driver. Across from Café du Monde (a hint to have more beignets and chicory coffee), Decatur Street at Jackson Square; 8:30 a.m. to Midnight daily, weather permitting; www.neworleanscarriages.com.
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Cultural / Historic Institutions, Music Venues and Museums
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Audubon Zoo – More often thought of as a place for taking young children, the New Orleans Audubon Zoo is also actually a relaxing, entertaining and educational option for adults. In particular, unique exhibits of over 1500 animals of 360 species, including albino alligators and white tigers add interest to the more than 50 acres of pathways and boardwalks accented by sculptures, lush foliage, Spanish moss, flowers, historic trees, bamboo and boardwalks. Chirping of birds, both wild and exhibited, fresh breezes and the rustle of leaves can be a welcome diversion to a hectic touring schedule, particularly when the leisurely pace bodes well for working off some of the region’s gourmet indulgences. The zoo is located on an 18 th century sugar plantation and the 1884 World Exposition and contains the Louisiana Swamp Exhibit, the world’s only urban swamp that showcases South Louisiana animals such as Louisiana black bear, bobcats, foxes and albino alligators. A relaxing afternoon at the zoo combines well with a morning of shopping and sightseeing on famed Magazine Street, due to their close proximity to one another outside of the Quarter. Other options within the Audubon Nature Institute’s organization are the Aquarium of the Americas, IMAX Theatre, Parks and other educational and research centers. 6500 Magazine Street; www.auduboninstitute.org.
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Preservation Hall – Located only three blocks from the Mississippi River, Preservation Hall is the ultimate New Orleans music experience. Originally a private residence in 1750, the Hall has housed music legends of Jazz since 1961, in an effort (as the name reflects) to preserve the authenticity of original New Orleans Jazz. Always crowded and lively with the sounds of both young and veteran musicians, go prepared to tap your feet and open your heart to the real sound of the South. Louis Armstrong said, “Preservation Hall. Now that’s where you’ll find all of the greats.” 726 St. Peter Street; 888.946.JAZZ; www.preservationhall.com.
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Plantation and Historic Homes – There are so many to mention that we must recommend browsing the “Things to See and Do” section of NewOrleansOnline.com, as from the Edgar Degas House to Longe Vue House and Gardens, Hermann Grima House to Pitot House, we simply cannot narrow down the choices to just one or two! www.neworleansonline.com (link to Museums and the Arts / Museums / Historic Homes). Left Page (Courtesy New Orleans C V B ) -To p : Steamboat Natchez (Photo by Richard Nowitz). Middle: Cities of the Dead (Photo by Ann Purcell). Bottom Right: Carriage in front of St. Louis Cathedral (Photo by Carl Purcell). Bottom Left: Carriage in front of Royal Cafe (Photo by Carl Purcell). This Page-Top: Preservation Hall (Courtesy GNOTCC/Photo by Michael Te r r a n o v a ) . Middle: The famed Preservation Hall Jazz Band (Photo by Rick Olivier). Bottom Left: Nottoway Plantation Home (Courtesy New Orleans CVB/ Photo by Richard Nowitz).Bottom Right: Tennessee Williams’ Residence (Courtesy NewOrleansOnline.com).
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Shopping
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Jax Brewery – Located in the heart of the French Quarter, right on the Mississippi River, the Brewery dates back to 1891 and now houses four floors of modern shops and a convenient food court. It is the perfect place to enjoy casual shopping before a dinner reservation, or before or after a Mississippi River cruise onboard the Natchez Steamboat. 600 Decatur Street; www.jacksonbrewery.com.
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The Shops at Canal Place – Whether Saks Fifth Avenue, Adrienne Vittadini, Banana Republic, BCBG Max Azria, Coach or Gucci are your style, or you wish to find the ultimate New Orleans souvenir, The Shops at Canal Place offers all of the fashionable and well-known brands you love. Start your day at the wonderful Aquarium of the Americas, visit The Shops at Canal Place for lunch and browsing (or buying!), then slip into your just-purchased cocktail wear for an evening of Hurricanes, dinner and, perhaps, Preservation Hall Jazz. 333 Canal St r e e t ; www.theshopsatcanalplace.com.
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The Riverwalk Marketplace – Ann Taylor Loft, Banana Republic, Gap, The Body Shop, Brookstone and dozens of original shops grace this riverside shopping (and eating) experience where both typical retail goods and the ultimate i n l o c a l s o u v e n i r s a b o u n d . 1 P o y d r a s St r e e t ; www.riverwalkmarketplace.com.
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Magazine Street – A uniquely New Orleanian experience and great place to find treasured items to enjoy for years to come, eclectic and trendy boutiques abound for six miles along this famed and quaint street. It is particularly convenient to combine a morning of shopping and browsing on Magazine with an afternoon at Audubon Nature Institute (the zoo), or in a cemetery tour, as once you leave the Quarter in a rental car or by taxi, you’ll want to make the most of the excursion and not zigzag back and forth from one part of town to another. The Magazine Street Merchants Association offers a block-by-block shop map, so do research prior to departure for Nola and develop that shopping plan of attack! www.magazinestreet.com.
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Royal Street and French Quarter Boutiques, Galleries and Shops – If staying in the Hotel Monteleone or Royal Sonesta, you’re basically already there! Royal Street is aptly named, as so many treasures, antiques, galleries, original garments and adorable boutiques are located on these famed blocks that the shopping is fit for royalty, although the prices aren’t necessarily only for bluebloods. While going to and from Quarter restaurants, tours, hotels, museums and other places, shops will catch your eye for a later return for extended browsing and buying. For a leisurely day during which to catch your breath and rest for additional combat-sightseeing on days to come, incorporate a Royal Carriage Tour or Good Old Days Tour by horsedrawn carriage and some culture-laden cuisine along your route.
T o p : Riverwalk M a r ke t p l a c e sign. Middle: Storefront on Royal Street (Photo by Ric h a r d Nowitz). Bottom Left: French Market Hot S a u c e s (Photo by Carl Purcell). B o t t o m Right: Art displayed for sale on the D e c a t u r Street side of J a c k s o n Square. All photos courtesy New Orleans CVB.
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On Common The space between two cities so geographically distant is bridged by a glimpse into small things they have in common.
Philly In 1890, the Fairmount Park Association bought Emmanuel Fremiet’s bronze statue of Joan of Arc. It was first placed in a location where it was “unappreciated,” then moved to its present Center City area stance, after being gilded at the Philadelphia Museum of Art.
Nola In 1959, Charles de Gaulle presented the exact copy of France’s own 1880 Emmanuel Fremiet equestrian statue of Joan of Arc to the City of New Orleans, as a gift from the people of France. Originally located in front of the International Trade Mart, the statue was moved in 1999 to be “better appreciated” in the heart of the city, at the Place de France on Decatur Street, just adjacent to the French Market. Left: Joan of Arc photo Courtesy New Orleans CVB.
The first electric streetcar system in Philadelphia was introduced on Catharine and Bainbridge Streets in 1892. Trolleys still run through parts of Philadelphia today.
Since September 1835, streetcars have been a major mode of transportation in New Orleans. The St. Charles Streetcar Line, still in disrepair following Hurricane Katrina, is the oldest continually operating street rail line in the world. Left: Streetcar photo by Harry Costner, Courtesy New Orleans CVB.
Philadelphia’s Benjamin Franklin Bridge was completed in 1926 and connects Philadelphia with the entry to New Jersey, over the Delaware River. At the time of its construction, then called the “Delaware River Port Authority Bridge,” the Ben Franklin was the largest suspension bridge in the world.
The first bridge across the Mississippi into the heart of New Orleans, what was once known as the “Greater New Orleans Bridge,” is now known as the Crescent City Connection. It was opened in April of 1958. Upon opening, it was the longest cantilever bridge in the world.
Philadelphia was the Capital city of America, as of 1790 (through 1800). Originally founded in 1682 by William Penn, the first inhabitants of the area were the Delaware Indian settlement of Shackamaxon, along the Delaware River.
New Orleans was the Capital city of French Louisiana, as of 1792. Originally founded in 1718 by the French, the area was originally inhabited by Native Americans, along the Mississippi River, Bayou St. John and Lake Ponchartrain.
With roots dating back as far as 1642 and once a pre-Lenten celebration, the Mummer’s Parade on New Year’s Day brings together the traditions of Swedes, Finns, English, Welsh, Germans and even Southern Plantationers as part of the oldest folk parade in America. Gangs work together to produce organized pagentry as part of the overall parade and festivities, including elaborate costumes, floats, three-tiered parasols, brass bands and strutting to the theme tune, Golden Slippers.
Although its heritage dates back to the French of New Orleans and approximately 1718, the first organized Krewe was established in 1857 to orchestrate organized pre-Lenten celebration. Contrary to popular belief, and much to the dismay of New Orleans residents, the French Quarter is not the heart of Mardi Gras tradition and activity each year. Although crowds flock to the Quarter after the parades, popular media has improperly represented the Bourbon Street area as the hub of Mardi Gras. Also much to the dislike of locals, ladies’ shirt raising is a relatively new activity, not a tradition. It is an action created by drunk and unihibited party-goers, not one with roots or tradition in Mardi Gras history.
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PHILADELPHIA & NEW ORLEANS
Philly
Nola
Laurel Hill Cemetery was founded in 1836 and is the second major rural cemetery in the United States. It was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1998 (one of the few such designations in the country). Laurel Hill is laden with graves of major figures from throughout American history. The grounds encompass 74 acres, 33,000 monuments and 11,000 family plots. Laurel Hill is perhaps most widely known for its aboveground tombs and elaborate mausoleums.
Lafayette Cemetery was officially established in 1833 and is the scene of many Hollywood movies, such as Interview with a Vampire. Lafayette is most well known for above ground tombs and “society tombs,” those erected by society groups for their members. Lafayette is also the final resting place of many war heroes, dignitaries, famed families and even ladies listed as “consorts.”
Originally, iron fences only adorned the finest of homes and buildings in Colonial America. By the early 1800s, Philadelphia blacksmith shops were crafting architectural iron that was of a quality competitive with ironworks available from England. Wood & Perot of Philadelphia, famous cast-iron fence maker of the Victorian era (1860 to 1890) was one manufacturer of several in Pennsylvania known for providing print catalogs of dozens of different fence, gate and balcony designs to the homeowners of New Orleans. The ordered products were crafted, then transported by train to become a well-known feature of the homes and other buildings of New Orleans, particularly the French Quarter, where they are a daily subject of photographers.
New Orleans is world-famous for its French Quarter balconies fashioned ornately with filigrees of scrolls, twists, plant designs and geometric shapes, crafted in wrought iron and most often painted either black or dark green. Left: New Orleans
Hoagies are the traditional submarine sandwich, as they are known throughout Pennsylvania, New Jersey and New York. This sandwich consists of an elongated roll (similar to a baguette), cold lunch meats and cheeses, dressed with lettuce, tomatoes, onion, hot peppers, sweet peppers, mustard, oil, vinegar or mayonnaise. Toasted, they are called “grinders.”
Po’ Boys are traditional submarine sandwiches, as they are known throughout Louisiana. They consist of meat or seafood, served on a baguette. The main difference between a Philly Hoagie and a Po’Boy is that the Louisiana French bread is denser and chewier. Above: Po’Boy
The Philly Cheesesteak was invented in 1930 by Pat Olivieri, owner of Pat’s King of Steaks. Consisting primarily of thinly slice pieces of grilled steak, grilled onions and melted cheese on a long roll, cheesesteaks are the comfort food of Philadelphia. Pat’s still serves the original Cheesesteaks today, as do Geno’s and Jim’s.
balconies. Photo by Carl Purcell / Courtesy New Orleans CVB.
and beer. Photo by Kurt Coste / Courtesy New Orleans CVB.
Muffulettas were invented at Central Grocery in 1906, which was operated by Sicilian immigrant Salavatore Lupo. A Muffuletta consists of a large, flat 10-inch loaf of bread split horizontally, marinated olive salad, capicola, salami, mortadella, emmantaler and provolone cheese. Central Grocery still serves these famed sandwiches today, as do Jason’s Deli and Murphy’s.
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ROAD TRIP Man’s Motivations Behind Ownership and Adoration of Vintage Automobiles
By Scott Pruden With Photographs By Rafael Henin
The garage of Porsche restorer Christopher Radbill is as full of stories as it is cars – maybe more. Situated in the suburbs of West Chester, Pennsylvania, among an innocuous cluster of light-industrial buildings along a quiet side road, Chris Radbill Automotive Repair and Restoration doesn’t overtly speak of the power of a classic automobile to restore lives. That’s up to Radbill. He points to one 1967 Porsche 912 that at one point had been blue before time and the elements wore the body paint down to the primer. The customer had owned it since before he and his wife married, but it had been in storage for years as the couple raised their family. After going through a scary period of heart trouble that threatened his life, the owner had decided to celebrate his recovery by restoring the car to its former glory. Because the customer’s budget was limited, Radbill said he would do just enough to the car to get it back on the road. Then one day Radbill called the customer’s home and his wife answered. “She said, ‘You know, my husband says I married him because of that car. And he’s probably right, because we lived in California and we used to cruise up and down the Coastal Highway and I just loved the sound of that car,’ and it was like a whole thing for her.” The result was that the budget conscious owner’s wife gave Radbill the go-ahead for a complete makeover on the iconic Porsche. “They had hung onto the car through raising a family and everything else, so it has a lot of meaning to them,” he says. “And it makes me glad to do that for people. I think that probably the biggest kick for me is when someone comes in here and is excited about what they’ve got. You can really increase the quality of their life.” And the stories keep coming, all centered on the vintage Porsches Radbill restores as a hefty percentage of his work on primarily German vehicles. There’s the high-powered pharmaceutical sales rep who uses his vintage Porsche 912 Targa as a lunchtime stress-management tool, speeding up and down the suburban Philadelphia highways until the muscles in his shoulders unclench and sanity returns. The same customer has bought a car specifically to restore with his pre-teen son, Radbill says. The son wasn’t impressed with the idea until the dad drove him to school one day and the son’s friends remarked on his dad’s cool car. “It’s creating something he can do with his son, who’s not a couch potato, but is a computer potato. So the father’s thinking that this is an opportunity to get him outside of that into something they can do together.” That cross-generational interest doesn’t just stand as a single anecdote, since Radbill and many others associated with collecting classic cars have noted a boost in the number of younger adults – almost entirely men – filtering into this thriving American sub-culture.
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Witness Daran Thomas, a successful and handsome (think former model, which he was) marketing executive in the Raleigh suburb of Apex, N.C. He admits to a lifelong fascination with classic and exotic cars that he can now afford to extensively indulge. “There’s something everlasting about an old car that today is still beautiful. It has a lot more longevity than a new car,” he says. “Something that had stood the test of time, that really appealed to me.” That doesn’t mean he waited until he hit it big to purchase his first vintage car – a used BMW 525, bought when he was 25 years old. He admits it was a more affordable placeholder for what he really wanted, a 1972 BMW CSI. It took 10 years and vastly improved fortunes for him to begin searching for his dream car again. After a few years he found one – in California. A friend on the West Coast examined it, deemed it worthy of purchase and it was shipped east. It’s now a work in progress at Automotive Restoration, the shop Thomas co-owns with a friend who restores cars professionally. In addition to satisfying his childhood dreams, his acquisitions allow him the very grownup luxury of relief from the stresses of his “day job” creating promotional and marketing material for the pharmaceutical industry. “If I’m working on a big project that isn’t going as it should, I can go out to the shop and focus on a piece of metal that is tangible,” he says. “Doing something that has instant gratification, it helps in a business that is so long-term oriented.” Thomas’ story isn’t an unusual one, says Dennis Gage, host of the SPEED cable channel program My Classic Car with Dennis Gage. As someone whose job is to cover the classic car circuit, he’s noticed that collectors like Thomas represent a subtle, but significant, shift in the collector subculture.
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Why Vintage?
“People want to stand out. They want to make that personal statement.” - Dennis Gage, Host My Classic Car With Dennis Gage
“I find a lot of young people driving these cars,” he says. “They’re going after the cars for the same reason as our generation – they want to stand out. People want to stand out. They want to make that personal statement.” The difference is that, because they are pursuing the cars of their youth, a whole new segment of restored and collectible late 1960s and early 1970s muscle cars are becoming more and more collectible. Auction company Barrett-Jackson has, in the last few years, seen a spike in demand for well-kept models like the Dodge Charger, Chevy Camaro or Pontiac GTO, with buyers bidding higher for those models than for glamorous standbys like Ferraris. New money plays a big part in the infusion of younger blood, but so do different priorities from those of the masses, especially with Generation Xers, he says. In large part, those who have made it big are “either going for the Porsches or the Beemers – they’re the new yuppies,” he says. “So if you don’t want to be such a yuppie, you go back and get one of these old models. It’s a cool thing, and the cool factor is very high in these cars.” But what, for lack of a better way to phrase the question, is the drive? What possesses grown-up men – and they are by and large men – to spend so much time, energy and money on what, when it comes right down to it, are obsolete modes of transportation? Gage chalks the already huge popularity up to the massive demographic wave of which he admits he’s a part. “The hobby has historically been driven by aging Baby Boomers, but there is a new focus on youth in collecting,” he says. “These guys are finally able to relive the past they never had. They can have that Shelby Mustang. They couldn’t afford them when they cost $3,000. Now, when they cost $80,000, they can afford them, because they’re statements. They’re extensions of self.” Barry Dougherty, an avid collector and appraiser who lives in Pottstown, Pennsylvania, takes a different but no less philosophical point of view. “I don’t see it as [nostalgia],” he says. “To guyswho grow and mature in the hobby, it’s like artwork. You develop an eye and a feel for what’s valuable and why it’s valuable.” 41
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A good example is Nicola Bulgari, he of the Italian luxury watch and jewelry empire. Among the monied set, Bulgari’s fascination with vintage Buicks is legendary. His love goes back to his first car – a 1937 Model 8 that he found rusting in his home city of Rome and bought for $30. Since then, he’s amassed a huge collection, portions of which are stored in Italy, New York and Allentown, Pennsylvania. He has also donated a number of rare cars to museums. Bulgari, who once described Bugatti and Ferrari as “shit” to a Forbes Magazine writer, doesn’t seem to know why he loves American heavy metal, but he knows he does. Call it nostalgia or call it appreciation – or a mix of both – but it’s clear that the man knows what he likes, is passionate about it and puts plenty of money into it. Dougherty, a good friend of Bulgari’s through a mutual collector friend, can pull up to various low-slung warehouses in unassuming light industrial neighborhoods throughout Pennsylvania’s Lehigh Valley, open a garage door and reveal rare gems of automotive design and beauty, all marinating in a delicious bouquet of motor oil and leather. In Allentown, he stops into Precision Motor Cars and chats for a moment with the technicians before heading next door to reveal a piece of Bulgari’s collection – a few thousand square feet of nothing but gleaming General Motors steel, all the product of one very wealthy man’s single-minded fascination.
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But it is not in the super-rich collectors like Bulgari or designer Ralph Lauren that Dougherty sees the hobby’s future. Instead, he sees much of the hobby’s evolution coming from younger collectors entering through the segment of “tuners” – stock (mostly Japanese) automobiles that have been tricked out with more powerful engines, thunderous sound systems, elaborate lights and other cosmetic and technological embellishments. “This new wave … that’s involved in tuner cars, they’re going to get older and make money,” and as they do, their senses that have already been attuned to what makes cars special will turn to items that are more rare and valuable. While collectors might view their cars as art, Philadelphia-based painter Frederick Yohe creates art out of classic cars. His almost photorealistic paintings of vintage automobiles are as highly detailed as the cars themselves, and the collectors, celebrities, and car manufacturers who serve as a good portion of his client base recognize that. For Yohe, his love of cars comes from an appreciation of their looks rather than from fiddling under their hoods or restoring their chassis. “It’s purely aesthetics with me. I really do not know too terribly much about cars,” he says. “I simply look at the photographs, and if I see a really fine design in that photograph I go after it.” He finds that among the collectors who appreciate his work, much of the appeal is in the level of detail he is able to capture in his paintings. It’s that attention to the minutia of the machine that he believes drives many in the hobby. “I’m really only able to satisfy the guy who is into the detail,” he says. “They’re really looking at the painting to see if they can find anything that’s not right.” Dr. P. Murali Doraiswamy, a psychiatrist at Duke University Medical Center who is friends with Daran Thomas, says that it is hard to pin down the motivations of a vintage car collector or owner. The collector’s attention to detail – which he calls a mild and socially appropriate form of obsessive/ compulsive behavior – is about the only common factor that links vintage car owners. “Is it any different from a person who’s restoring
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an ancient painting? Probably not,” he says. “Most of them are highly accomplished, successful, well-balanced people who are not letting their car collections interrupt their normal lives. The car collectors I know seem to come in all different flavors.” Still, Thomas, who is single, admits that it takes a special woman to put up with the depth of his interest in his restoration projects. A former girlfriend was with him during much of the time he was restoring a 1969 280 SL convertible Mercedes two-door coupe as a retirement gift to his father. His hobby, he says, did contribute to some friction over the course of their three-year relationship. “Obviously, she would have liked that attention on her,” he says, laughing. “And aside from car parts in the sink – because I like to do a lot of the stuff at home – like anything, she could have blamed the car. But if it wasn’t the car, I probably would have spent that time working on the house. It would have been nice if she’d had the same level of enthusiasm, but I haven’t met that many women that had that much interest in the car.” In fact, if it’s not a wife or girlfriend supporting her significant other, or a midriff- baring model paid to shill for a specialty brand of car wax, women aren’t a big part of the collector hobby. Doraiswamy notes that much of vintage car collecting does involve a bit of “alpha male” behavior, including competition for bragging rights that helps serve as an ego booster, particularly for a population that is so heavily steeped in testosterone. Mechanic and restorer Radbill speaks from experience. As someone who regularly attends car shows and parts swaps, he’s seen the extremes of male competitiveness. Negotiation sessions can last all day, with customers repeatedly returning to vendors in an attempt to get better prices. Ego wars ensue, and have occasionally ended only with threats of bodily harm. A look around a show and swap like the annual Spring Carlisle Event in Carlisle, Pennsylvania, leaves little doubt that this is a hobby for guys. The sight of adult men pulling their kids’ modified Radio Flyers full of seemingly random parts is a reminder that many of them are living their childhood fantasies of “cool car” ownership. Women are sparse and often accompanying the kind of men who would refer to them as their “old lady.” Others are middle-class couples indulging a husband’s fascination, or fathers/daughter pairs indulging in quality time before the girl’s interests turn toward make-up and boys. The women, it seems, are less interested in the minutia of collecting and restoring and – as cliché as it sounds – more in the extensive social and shopping aspects the shows offer. Every second booth seems to offer either car-related kitsch or some auto-themed antique, and it’s obvious many couples are reconnecting with people they only see at car shows. To listen to Radbill, who knows better than anyone that there’s a story under the hood of every classic automobile, it’s obvious that along with the hefty dosage of male hormones, the hobby is quietly helped along by a smidgen of estrogen. His own wife, Charlotte, fondly recalled the Porsche 912 he owned back when they first began dating. “I let her drive it and she just loved it, and then I just let her drive it [all the time],” he says. “I knew it was in good hands because she had so much fun.” That car eventually succumbed to the demands of family life. When he recently found a similar model to restore for himself, Charlotte asked for one of her own. Radbill is now restoring a Targa for her. The levels of their interest still remain at significantly different degrees, but it’s something they can share and indulge in together. And Radbill says that is a big part of the appeal to doing what he does, and is also a big part of what the hobby offers. “I’m happy to see it bring people together like that,” he says. “My wife likes to say, ‘You restore cars, but in the bigger scheme of things it’s a restorative thing for people, for their lives.’”
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Photo: Kimberly Toms
[Gentle]Men’s Clubs Not Just for the Boys Anymore? Helene Golombek
Gentlemen’s clubs, strip joints, cabarets, topless bars, show clubs, Bada Bing! To many women, these words conjure up the worst possible images – lascivious dens of mostly naked women gyrating for dollars, meat markets where sexual acts can be bought for the right price. But, is that really the case? Are these clubs so scandalous, dirty and perverse, or are they simply pseudo-theatrical venues wherein many women are enjoying visually seductive foreplay as part of a monogamous relationship? Whatever the reason, more and more women are finding their way into gentlemen’s clubs and, quite often, they go without their men. Perhaps mainstream values are changing, in this time when celebrities are sometimes made not exclusively by talent, but also by an ability to make headlines. As such, media-watchers are becoming desensitized to actions that once were considered scandalous, but are now thought of as mere accidental exposure of a very mortal person’s private life. More often than not these headlines refer to some sort of sexual exploit, often as a public relations effort: a breast that popped out at an opportune time, an explicit bedroom video, or a steamy kiss caught by the paparazzi. Would Paris Hilton be on anyone’s radar if her infamous sex tape had not forged her way into the mainstream consciousness? Watch almost any video on MTV and you will see nearly the same amount of flesh that you would see in a typical topless bar. The lyrics to top songs with radio airplay speak of freakiness, kink and sexual activity as naturally as one used to mention being innocent and “sweet sixteen.” We are bombarded with images of sexuality at every turn – on billboards, magazine covers, in print, on television and Internet ads. Even advertisements in women’s magazines show females (and to a lesser degree, men) in provocative poses, sometimes naked, pouting at the camera. Yes, one might say that women have become desensitized, but is that really giving the “softer sex” enough credit? Could it really just be that women are admirers of beauty, and not unlike men, we find the female form attractive, even arousing?
Since the sexual revolution of the 1960’s, women have had the luxury of being more fluid with their sexuality than men. With the growing culture of overt sexuality, it is only natural that those things that were once eschewed by “polite” society are now becoming the norm. There are DVDs that will teach you to striptease, lap dance and pole dance like a pro, right in the comfort of your own home. If that does not do it for you, lap dancing and strip tease classes are offered at gyms across the country. You, too, can easily buy and install a dancer’s pole in your bedroom. It would be easy to dismiss the trend of ladies visiting gentlemen’s clubs as just another way of showing how far back women seem to be willing to push the feminist movement. But that is not necessarily the case. Women use gentlemen’s clubs as a way to learn how to express and explore their own sexuality. And, according to therapists, women visiting these clubs can actually learn quite a bit about themselves and their sexual triggers, while learning what to do to turn men on at the same time.
went to a topless bar with a potential client, it was not my idea. It was the late 1990’s, when few women spoke of even stepping into a men’s club, much less considered going into one for a contract negotiation. But, in agreeing to go, I felt a certain strength and advantage within my deal, as the three men truly expected me to flinch at the prospect. “Before the suggestion had been made, I could see the guys were distracted and not into listening to a traditional pitch. But, as we walked into the club, I could sense that the clients were actually feeding off of the attention generated by having me with them. Almost every man in the room turned to see who these guys were, who were bringing the girl into their domain. I think it made the clients feel important. As I bought a round of drinks, I didn’t have to initiate any conversations about business. One of the guys jumped right in and started negotiations toward a signature. By the end of the evening, I had the deal and fully retained my dignity. I even gained a certain unexpected boost of esteem, both in their eyes and my own.”
On a more basic level, gentlemen’s clubs give women the opportunity Gentlemen’s clubs offer an atmosphere in which women can unabashto look at other women’s bodies. For the most part, even heterosexual edly share a sensual experience with their partner, whether it is a partwomen enjoy looking at other women. And from experience I can tell ner for the night, a month or a long-term relayou it is not fun to be caught looking at another tionship. In fact, according to Arlene Goldman, woman in the gym locker room! But at the club, PhD, a licensed psychologist and sex therapist, the women are on stage, mingling with the crowd Could it really just be that and co-author of the book Secrets of Sexual Ecand they know that the audience is there to see women are admirers of stasy, gentlemen’s clubs bring novelty to sexual them, enjoy the moment and even learn from the interactions that otherwise have the potential to overall experience. Dancers typically do not beauty, and not unlike become staid. It offers couples the chance to play consider a female patron twice (except maybe to men, we find the female with ideas they might not be able, or willing to, wink knowingly), if they catch us looking at them. really act on. “Visiting a gentlemen’s club is a form attractive, even safe way of playing with the idea of a third perAnother reason women visit gentlemen’s clubs arousing? son in the relationship,” she says. Women may is to better understand the allure of such places find themselves aroused after leaving a club, not to men. This is an especially strong motivator necessarily because of the dancers they have seen, but because of the for women who have, or have had, partners who visit these types of environment itself. It can be fun to take this arousal home and put it places regularly. As one woman told me, she has visited clubs in the past to prove to herself that “all the women who work there are sluts!” to use with a willing partner. Maybe this makes her feel better about herself in some way, or makes It is not only women in relationships who can benefit from a visit to a her able to dismiss her partner’s behavior when he wants to go. “He bar noir. In that setting, women are offered a chance to explore their wouldn’t want to be with one of those women,” she tells herself, “beown sexuality, while becoming empowered to use that sexuality, as cause they’re not good in the way I’m good.” While some women may well. While this may go against what a lot of women think gentlemen’s feel this way, others go because it helps demystify for them what reclubs offer, consider evidence in support of the theory. Club dancers ally happens there. This is actually a healthy approach, and one that on stage are practiced in the art of seduction and use their sexuality to was voiced by several women with whom I spoke. Many men get what they want. Successful visual seduction is the key to heightenenjoyspending time at gentlemen’s clubs, and there are a number of ing of a dancer’s income. There is a reason the strippers on stage play women who feel, that if their partner is going to be there, then they to the crowd, lean into the pole in specific ways, connect with the will be there with them. audience the way they do. Each action is proven to have worked for Strip emporiums also offer men and women “the opportunity to comdancers before them, for years, as men (and now women) have thrown municate with one another about what turns them on in a way that is money on the stage in response to the showgirl’s movements. Most not personal,” according to Caroline Robbey, MSW, LCSW, CAS. female patrons are not going to be empowered to run out and buy pasties Being able to talk about what arouses you is important in a relationand 6-inch heels to wear to the office, but they can learn how to move ship and can lead to greater intimacy. Many couples have problems their bodies in a way to which men react. In gaining positive response with this, and anything that can help open the lines of communication in using what they have learned, women are naturally going to feel is something that should be explored. more confident and in control. As a matter of fact, many women who visit gentlemen’s clubs do so for the explicit reason of learning how to So let’s say that you, as a woman, have decided to try going to such a turn men on, how to move and be seen as a sensual being. club. Or, as a man, your lady has agreed to go. You get a group of friends together, both sexes or not, and hit one of the local topless Like schmoozing on the golf course, men have been taking potential bars. There are a few things to keep in mind before you walk in the business associates to men’s clubs to loosen prospects to the point of front door. actively considering a pitch or deal. Often, board rooms do not offer a setting conducive to forging a bond with potential clients, partners or First, there are different “classes” of gentlemen’s clubs and they can sponsors. Given the overall experience and relaxed atmosphere of a differ in areas such as the type of women who work there, the cleanlitopless bar, many a business relationship has been solidified while ness of the club and just how naked the dancers get. Based on my exalso considering the female form, cocktails and the exhilarating feelperience, most ladies prefer cleaner clubs, where the dancers are ating that one is sharing in a male experience with a like-minded associtractive and, most importantly, not completely nude. These are the ate. clubs that do not have the reputation of excessive “Champagne Court” behavior. Some women have also been empowered to utilize upscale strip clubs as a setting for negotiating tough business deals. Emily, a 36 year-old Seemingly as important is what the dancers are wearing, and how inadvertising consultant from Philadelphia, admitted, “The first time I
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teractive they are with the audience. In one club I visited, there was no nudity, except for maybe when men went to the back for a lap dance. Since I did not get such a private dance, I cannot be sure.
may be the catalyst that some women need in order to ratchet up their confidence level. Again, almost paradoxically, a club may also help bring greater intimacy into a relationship.
It was disconcerting to me to see the dancers walk up to men, rub their backs for a second and then hold their g-strings in a way that let the men know they were expecting money just for having talked to them. Equally as disconcerting was the number of men who felt it was their job to rub the girls’ backsides as vigorously as I would rub a stain I was trying to remove from my carpet. While other clubs may have offered more nudity, there seemed to be more boundaries in place – and more women in attendance.
Finally, men must respect the comfort level of the lady with whom they attend such a place, and women must respect both each other and the dancers. One must admit that, while women may find each other attractive, there is a fine line between viewing a woman as beautiful or sensual and the other extreme of exploiting a female. For example, young women have been known to exploitatively cheer each other on to bare it all for professional cameras, such as the Girls Gone Wild videos, alongside the same encouragement by men. Although both sexes may currently consider what was once “edgy” as more mainstream, there is no excuse for pressuring someone into overt behavior, whether in general interaction, for visiting a men’s club, or performing in one.
Cleanliness is especially important to many women when visiting a gentlemen’s club. Why would I want to spend my time – and my money – at a club that does not respect its dancers or patrons enough to keep to certain standards of cleanliness? Let’s face it, no matter what you think of them, there’s a degree of tawdriness associated with these types of venues. It is in the club owners’ best interest to keep the areas the patrons visit as clean as possible, so one does not have to wonder about what could be on the floors, chairs or in the dark corners (think seedy “adult” movie theatres). Most topless bars are not the dens of iniquity that many women think them to be. Although it sounds like a paradox, gentlemen’s clubs just
Sitting at home and discussing visiting a gentlemen’s club with someone – a significant other, a platonic friend, a group – is a different experience than actually being in one. Once actually within the club setting, there may be feelings of jealousy, inadequacy, or just plain discomfort. It is important to acknowledge these feelings and leave if that is what you really want to do. Among the many good reasons there are to visit a gentlemen’s club, being coerced into it is not one of them. So ladies, if you are not feeling it, or (as a man) the lady you are with seems uncomfortable, simply get out!
The Flip Sides: What Do You Think About Women Visiting Gentlemen’s Clubs?
He Said:
She Said:
“I feel the same way about men or women going. I understand going with a group, to have fun. Also, I think it is cool if a girl is comfortable with that. To me, it shows she has an open mind and is probably a fun person to hang out with. But, I truthfully don’t understand men or women going just to hang out and look at the women. I think there are better ways to spend an evening.” - Rob, 35
“I have never had any interest in visiting a gentlemen’s club. However, I do enjoy nudity in movies. Does that count for anything? If I want to see DDs, I just look in the mirror. Most every man I have dated has not been into gentlemen’s clubs, either.” - Jennifer, 34
“I have no problem with women visiting gentlemen’s clubs. I think that seeing a woman there is a huge turn on, especially if she seems to be enjoying it. It escalates the male fantasy of two women ‘together.’” - Dan, 32 “I like seeing women at a strip club. I think it is incredibly sexy to see a dancer giving a lap dance to a girl. I don’t think there is anything wrong with it at all.” - Joe, 37 “I have gone to clubs with girls before and I think it is a blast! One time I went with two girls and another guy. We bought a lap dance for all four of us and the girls picked the dancer. One of the girls was really into it, the other not so much. I think it is a nice way to spend the evening, but it helps when everyone is into it and having a good time.” - Mike, 32 “[If a woman wants to go,] it is her choice. The more, the merrier. If my lady went with me, I would be a little uneasy at first. But, it would be interesting after a couple of drinks. I would want her to act like she is enjoying herself. She doesn’t have to be into the women, but if she likes watching her boyfriend getting turned on, then I think both parties benefit later in the night. I think women should feel comfortable with men going to a strip club -- more than once a month is too much, but once in a while is fine. It’s not like the [dancers] are going home with these guys. It’s fantasy, almost like watching porn. It can only go so far and you always come back to reality.” - Tom, 30 www.magazineblu.com
“The only thing I have to say about a woman visiting a club is that, if she is in a relationship, I think she should take her partner’s feelings into consideration. Some guys might not like it. But, other than that, I don’t see what the big deal is.” - Sharon, 32 “I personally think it is strange for a woman to go to a gentleman’s club. I have no desire to visit one and don’t know why women would want to.” - Lisa, 34 “I think that there are different reasons why women go to gentlemen’s clubs, whether it is because they are into it or because they want to go with their partner. Regardless, I don’t think it is a bad idea or a good idea. It is a decision each person must make for themselves.” - Jennifer, 34 “I was initially intimidated by the prospect of going into such a club. But, once I went to one, I saw it was no big deal. I saw how much fun the dancers were having on stage and I relaxed and enjoyed myself quite a bit.” - Kate, 37 “I go with my boyfriends and do not see a problem with it. I am even secure with them going without me. There have been many times that I have gone, [such as] with my boyfriend to purchase him a lap dance for his birthday, with male friends when one has broken up with a girlfriend, or is about to get married or divorced. If I am invited to go, why not?” - Dani, 30
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Model: Patricia Reh (self-portrait).
Restrictive History The Evolution of Corsets and Neckties By Kimberly Toms with Kristen Held Photographs by Patricia Reh
As one mentions the word “corset,” one of two images generally appears in the mind of anyone within earshot. The first is that of a pre-Civil War debutante, as she grasps a post on her canopied bed, trying desperately to maintain balance while her housemaid struggles with full force to tighten the laces and cinch the already tiny waist to suit fashionable finicality. The second, more modern image, is that of sleek, shiny, black vinyl and steel clasps, as the dominatrix cracks her whip. How is it that one garment evolved from one end of the fashion spectrum to the direct opposite, first being an article required of the most chaste and elite ladies, then being a symbol of ruthlessness and sexual provocation? Very ironically, primarily individualists, those who are neither inhibited nor afraid to make a fashion statement, now wear what was originally conceived to produce heightened feminine beauty in women of society, and then eventually distorted into a tool of vanity, fashionable conformity and discipline of the female form. In modern times, the wearer is sometimes even an overt sexual disciplinarian and anything but softly feminine. What is less frequently realized than the Gone with the Wind scene of tugging and lacing to obtain an 18-inch waist, is that the corset was originally designed in the 1500s as a fashionable cylindrical form not meant to cinch the waist so much as to support and spotlight the breasts. As depicted in popu-
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Shakespeare in Love, the average corset wearer was a lady of society, a blueblood, a member of the elite. She is frequently depicted with a heavy bosom, adorned with large baubles and gems. It was not until over three hundred years later, in the Victorian era, that women became competitive in their waist size, cinching ever tighter and training their torsos into an exaggerated hourglass shape that reminds one of Who Framed Roger Rabbit’s Jessica Rabbit physique. This obsession with obtaining the most curvaceous figure and smallest waist possible raged out of control, starting from the 1840s and lasting well into the early 1900s, as part of the Edwardian era. Clear examples of this look are historically accurate movies, such as Anna and the King, Little Women, Gone with the Wind, Tombstone, The Age of Innocence and Titanic. This mass desire of 19 th and 20 th century women to appear up to par for a certain fashionable and societal expectation is quite similar to the modern woman’s desire to be thin and fit, a size 4 or 6. Many women of today have utilized methods to achieve the same goals as the Victorian and Edwardian ladies, except through dieting (even starvation) versus binding. Most still strive to wear the smallest size possible, have the most sought-after physique and to be just a little bit better than those around her. The only difference is that the woman of yesteryear tightened the laces and women of the past thirty years skip meals, crash diet and workout excessively to obtain similar results. www.magazineblu.com
The majority of us can recall hearing tales of the negative physiological affects of corsetry and tight lacing on the female body. But, little is regarded about how diligently advocates of corsetry, such as the Corset Manufacturers Association, fought to keep women in such garments beyond 1900. Clearly, manufacturers, retailers and salespeople had incentive for continuing to sell their products, thus utilized a massive marketing campaign to ensure longevity in manufacture and sales, despite the growing desire of women to shed the structured wear. As women were rejecting, the industry was scrambling. Initially, industrialists fought the woman’s desire to “go corsetless” through mention of femininity, morality and respectability within advertising campaigns and editorials. As the fight to retain a foothold in the early 1900s undergarment market intensified, claims turned from such Victorian ideals to those of pure vanity, such as perpetuation of youth, concealment of physical imperfection, reversal of gender inferiority and even compensation for evolutionary inadequacy. It was an era during which there was a clear shift from employing simple moralistic opinion and arguments to influence women to those supposedly backed by scientific fact. As late as the 1920’s, corset manufacturer trade journals declared that the “corsetless evil” could result in dissipation of muscular strength, injury to internal organs and even destruction of American sovereignty. By 1917, as the Suffragettes converged upon the White House and birth control became a hot topic of political and scientific debate, hemlines slowly shortened, women showed their legs, and in the process, a new movement toward freedom in women’s dress, behavior and rights surged forward…into the era of stretch fabrics, nylons and, eventually, spandex. Christian Dior revisited the corseted silhouette (without an actual corset) as part of his “New Look” of 1947. The standard for the next decade thus became a small torso, shoulders and waist, a large bust with almost indefinable hips under flowing, mid-calf length skirts-just as popularized by Ava Gardner.
Perhaps it is Vivienne Westwood who deserves most credit for both the resurgence of the corset into modern fashion, as well as its frequent consideration in the collective consciousness as one of the basic fashion elements of fetishism. Westwood designed the clothing worn by the Sex Pistols for their first gig, utilizing punk-wear staples such as spiked collars, bondage gear, safety pins and outrageous styling. In 1987, she was the first designer to introduce corsets as outerwear, as part of her Harris Tweed Collection that included the “Stature of Liberty” corset adorned with Swarovski crystals. Westwood’s study of fashion history led to her philosophy that clothing is about “changing the shape of the body, about having a restriction,” versus the more conventional expectation that clothing should fit the shape of the body. Since Vivienne Westwood’s modern debut of corsets in 1987 and Madonna’s many appearances in varied versions of her own whim during the nineties, corsets have become much more mainstream, while maintaining their edgy and fetishist appeal. They are now prevalent in high fashion, as prominently designed and utilized by Christian LaCroix, Jean Paul Gaultier and Alexander McQueen within their lines of the past six years. As time progresses, corsets are more accepted as outerwear and less the whispered-about clothing of a rare brave soul. According to Amanda Violett, an online corsetry group moderator and corset model from Dallas, “Corsets make every part of your body look more refined.” That is parallel to the original objective behind conception and wear of corsets, of hundreds of years ago. However, she also has a more modern perspective. “Wearing a corset makes a statement about your sexuality and confidence. Women of all sizes can improve their feelings about themselves, once they [don] a corset. A small busted girl gains a boosted bust line. A curvier gal has a more defined and tight waist. A busty girl gains a tall and firmly voluptuous shelf.” Amy, a 40 year-old corset wearer, claims, “I love the tightness of the binding, the way it feels like I am being forced to be more aware of my posture. Every movement feels more graceful and even calculated, like a cat walking atop a picket fence. Everything about a corset makes me feel powerful and incredibly sexy.” So, clearly, wearing a corset can boost a woman’s self esteem and sense of personal power. For a man, or other observers of the corseted frame, such a garment may be attractive due to the refinement of a woman’s physique to conform more closely to old fashioned societal standards of curvaceous, Marilyn Monroe-esque femininity. In addition, a confident wearer is sexually appealing, as confidence is key to one’s own heightened sex appeal. Framed and Strangled In the world of men’s fashion, nothing compares to the constrictive nature of the corset like the ever-knotted necktie. Although now more commonly referred to as “neckwear,” ties became fashionable in the artistic sense around the necks of the elite and royalty in France during the mid-1600s. The exact origin of the necktie, however, is of great debate. Some historians have attributed neck scarves to Shih Huan Ti, China’s first emperor, who died in 210 B.C. Others claim Trajan, the militaristic Roman emperor, commissioned statues in 113 A.D. to commemorate his forces’ victory in what is now Romania, with the figures donning at least three versions of the modern necktie. Perhaps the most popular perspective is that of Croatian mercenaries having worn silk kerchiefs around their necks during the reign of Louis XIII, as part of the Thirty Years’ War that ended in 1648. According to lore, Louis was so captivated by the look of what was then termed the “cravat,” he took to wearing one himself, launching a global fashion that has endured through today.
Model: Megan Oliveira. www.magazineblu.com
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Whatever its origin, the necktie was labeled a Steinkirk in the late 1690s, after the Battle of Steinkirk in Flanders in 1692. Once puffy and using up to six feet of expensive fabric as the Steinkirk, the tie has settled into the thin, simpler form we see today. In the process, the necktie took on a similar status appeal as the corset had for women. Men used neckties of expensive fabric to separate themselves from the lower economic classes they referred to as “social inferiors.” Neckwear became a symbol of organizational allegiance, military membership, occupation and status. Until 1845, cravats were primarily solid colored or stark white. Then, a Cambridge University cricket club is believed to have utilized their flag colors of black, red-orange and gold as a necktie. This was the beginning of sports color wear in ties, followed in 1880 with the school tie birth, at Oxford University’s Exeter College. Since that time, school color ties are widely accepted on both sides of the Atlantic. Designer brands had their birth in the men’s neckwear genre in the 1920s, with sales primarily geared toward women. In the 1960’s, fewer men wore traditional clothing as part of the Peacock Revolution against formalized standards of attire. After exhibiting a comeback in the 1970’s and a resurgence of suit wear in the 80’s, neckties have experienced solidification in the wardrobes of upwardly mobile and accomplished white-collar men, despite the advent of “Casual Friday.” With suits being somewhat standardized and traditional in the corporate realm, many men find an outlet for self-expression in the style and colors of neckwear that they select and wear as part of workday attire. Politicians convey messages through which tie they don, including an option of a red “power tie” or a blue conservative option. Of course, everyone remembers President Bill Clinton’s affinity for neckwear, including the message he sent out via national television to Monica Lewinsky, by wearing a tie she presented to him as a gift. Critics of the simple, yet typically colorful, fashion statement have called the American tie “one of the most obvious phallic symbols in history.” However one feels about the look of neckwear, or the wearing of a tie, this one piece of silk knotted at the Adam’s apple frames the man’s face as it cinches at the throat, just as a corset frames the figure of a woman as it cinches at the waist. Both articles of attire are also physical expressions of individual taste and personality. Tied and Laced Beyond the similarities of restriction, idealism and conformity, as well as popular origins within a hundred years or so of one another, the man’s necktie and the woman’s corset were not bound on a parallel path. Women, with the aid of prodigious fashion designers of the 20 th century, in part due to women’s liberation and with advancement in fabric construction, determined comfort and accentuation of a natural female form as an element of beauty to be preferred, thus shedding the under-armor that once so heavily constricted. Men, for the most part, have continued to don and even embrace the necktie as a symbol of power, with little change in its form or appeal as a basic fashion element of the past hundred years. Little is ever really known about the direction of fashion in the future. However, if history is indeed a proving ground for coming standards and events, it appears that women’s undergarments will continue to become less binding and ever-smaller. Corsetry will probably remain popular in the world of fetishism and as a bold, yet occasional, fashion statement, as modern women seem more apt to prefer comfort over conformity. On the other hand, neckwear appears to be firmly rooted in the future of men’s attire. Although wear may continue to decrease as a standard only for important meetings and formal events, it seems that men enjoy the individuality and power that can be exuded from the selection and wear of one’s neck tie. For the time being and near future, men are likely to continue in acceptance of the slight discomfort of a bound throat, in exchange for the polish and style presented through a few feet of colorful silk fabric.
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Romance
Bound Captivating Corsets You Will Both Love
Historically influenced yet elegantly modern, corsets are naturally seductive, sleek and confidently sophisticated. Designed by Delicious Corseterie, these dramatically feminine pieces are sure to inspire admiration and romance. Photographs by Patricia Reh.
All Corsetry Courtesy Delicious Boutique (DeliciousBoutique.com)
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Model: Megan Oliveira Makeup: Kim Norris
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Model: Jennifer Tracy Makeup: Kim Norris
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Both Pages: Model: Jennifer Tracy Makeup: Kim Norris
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Both Pages: Model:Megan Oliveira Makeup: Kim Norris
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Model: Melissa Strawley Makeup: Kim Norris
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Model: Megan Oliveira Makeup: Kim Norris
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Bind Wrap Clasp Buckle Strap
Background Photo by Patricia Reh. Model: Megan Oliveira. Hair/Makeup:
Kim Norris.
In Silver, Gold, Watches and Gems
Escada Chain ($5260) and Pendant ($2780); Escada Wrist Bands ($2890 to $7200).
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All fashions courtesy Bernie Robbins Fine Jewelry, 10 Locations Throughout PA and NJ (www.BernieRobbins.com).
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Clockwise from left: Bernie Robbins White Gold and Diamond Necklace with Pendant ($8690), White Gold and Diamond Cuffs (Left: $7100/Right: $14,500) and Cuffs in White Gold, Rose and Yellow Gold with Diamonds ($11,750 to $13,950).
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Background Photo By Kimberly Toms www.magazineblu.com
Clockwise from left: John Hardy Necklace ($2550) with Pendant ($1795), Bracelet ($1695) and Ring ($995).
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Bernie Robbins Necklace ($6920) and Cuff ($11,000).
Clockwise from left: Judith Ripka Silver and 18k Yellow Gold Necklace ($650) with Pendant ($1050), Bracelets (Top: $950, Middle: $700, Bottom: $1800), Heart Ring ($500) and Gemstone/Diamond Rings ($650).
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Background Photo By Kimberly Toms www.magazineblu.com
Clockwise from left: David Yurman 16� Box Chain Necklace in 18k Gold ($2575) with Oval Mosaic Enhancer in 18k Gold with Blue Topaz, Blue Chalcedony, Iolite, Sapphire and Diamonds ($3800), Oval Mosaic Cuff in 18k Gold with Blue Topaz, London Blue Topaz, Lavender Amethyst, Blue Chalcedony and Diamonds ($9500), Oval Mosaic Ring in 18k Gold with Blue Topaz, Milky Aquamarine, Iolite, London Blue Topaz, Blue Sapphire and Diamonds ($2300).
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David Yurman Rings-Top: Exotic Stone in Sterling Silver and Pietersite ($700), Middle: Sterling Silver and Black Onyx ($550), Bottom: Exotic Stone in Sterling Silver and Tiger Iron ($650). Dog Tag Necklaces on Box Chains-Left: Sterling Silver and Tiger Iron ($575), Right: DY Logo in Sterling Silver ($350).
Top: David Yurman Belmont Watch in Sterling Silver and Stainless Steel with Corded Dial on Bracelet ($2550). Middle: Belmont Watch in Stainless Steel and Sterling Silver with Checkerboard Guilloche Dial on Black Rubber Strap ($2100). Bottom: Rolex Oyster Perpetual Explorer II in Stainless Steel ($5000).
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Background Photo By Kimberly Toms www.magazineblu.com
Clockwise from left: Heston Men’s Bracelets($450 to $5440). Sauro Gioielli Oltre Men’s Bracelets ($840 to $2490). Sauro Gioielli Oltre Keychain and Money Clip (Both $200).
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Background Photo By Kimberly Toms
Ladies’ Watches, Top: Baume & Mercier Diamant with Diamond Bezel, Mother of Pearl Dial (Pricing Available Through Retailer), Right: Tag Heuer 33mm Link Chronograph with Diamond Bezel and Diamond Mother of Pearl Dial ($3995).
Ladies’ Watches, Left: Fendi (Pricing Available Through Retailer). Right: Carl F. Bucherer Alacria Midi with Diamond Case ($6200). Bottom: Chanel (Pricing Available Through Retailer).
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Background Photo By Kimberly Toms
Men’s Watches, Top: Jaeger LeCoultre Master Geographic ($8750). 2nd From Top:Baume & Mercier Hampton Milleis with Power Reserve Indicator ($2795). 3rd From Top: Breitling Cockpit on Steel Pilot’s Bracelet ($4000). Bottom Left: Breitling Navitimer World ($4660). Bottom Right: Cartier Pasha Seatimer with Steel Case on Rubber Bracelet ($5100).
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Microbrews of the
Northeast by Curt Reidy
“Everybody has to believe in something... ...I believe I’ll have another drink.” - W.C. Fields We think we will too, Mr. Fields. While we’re at it, were going to go ahead and try some microbrews. Now, don’t get us wrong. Opening up a frosty can of Miller, Coors or Budweiser is perfectly fine, but we live in a world where our options are anything but limited, a world in which choices are available where there were once no choices to be found. So, why downplay our right to choose when it comes to the glorious gift that is beer, one thing in life that truly brings us the most joy (well, besides love, children, family and all that other “important” stuff)? Magazine BLU proudly presents our picks for the Top 10 Microbrews of the Northeast. We scoured down the East Coast (well, about half-way to be precise) to find you the best this area has to offer. Sure, they may be a little different. But, damn, they make the freedom of choice taste good!
Victory Brewing Company
Smuttynose Brewing Company
Downingtown, Pennsylvania An American microbrew with a deeply European flair, the brew masters of Victory pride themselves in a higher understanding of traditional German-style recipes, combined with a distinct (and very non-traditional) creative freedom that makes their brews so unique.
Portsmouth, New Hampshire An increasingly popular microbrew, Smuttynose earns its notoriety by keeping its traditional brewing style and dedication intact, while offering the consumer a wide variety of unique flavors.
The Golden Monkey, unquestionably one of Victory’s strongest selling beverages, packs a punch both in its signature taste and alcoholic content (10%, which we’re sure has absolutely nothing to do with its popularity with college students). A livelier, spritzier beer, this Belgian-style Tripel gets its taste from its bottle-conditioned fermentation, as well as its fruiter afterthoughts of crushed coriander seeds and orange. Another notable entry is Victory’s Hopdevil, a very successful India Pale Ale with a scent characteristic of pine and orange blossom. Its candied flavor flows into a grapefruity aftertaste, providing a specific roundness that really cleanses the palette. Bottom Line: Strong, tasty and very original. Top Left: Alan Pugsley, Master Brewer (left) and Fred Forsley, President of Shipyard Brewing Company. Top Right: Harpoon Brewery Founders Dan Kenary (left) and Rich Doyle. Bottom: The magnificent Harpoon Brewhouse.
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One of the more notable brews in the Smuttynose line is its classic Old Brown Dog Ale, their flagship beer. OBD offers dark, roasted malt, a chocolaty scent and a lot of body for brown ale. Another favorite is their Robust Porter, which works as a hybrid porter/stout. The Porter offers chocolaty, coffee aroma and quite a bit more hop than most. More of a sipping or dessert beer, the Porter satisfies as a very satiating brew with a rather formidable share of body. Bottom Line: A traditional line-up with a big difference...utter satisfaction.
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Barley Creek Brewing Company
Allagash Brewing Company
Tannersville, Pennsylvania Serving as both a brewery and mini-vacation of sorts (the establishment offers various outdoor drinking games and live music), there’s a lot to love about the Barley Creek Brewing Company. Offering a truly delicious assortment of original brews and a dining environment filled with a fun staff that truly understands good food, good beer, and (most importantly) a good time.
Portland, Maine With a primary focus on Belgian-style beers and an authentic bottle-conditioning method referred to as the Methode Champenose, Allagash is proud to stray away from the pack. Their recipes are an experimental hybrid of several European styles, with a yeast strain very similar to Belgian wine, beer from Germany, and the wine culture from France. Rest assured, all of it leads to a very unique drinking experience.
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Highly recommended is the Old 99, a specialty-sipping brew that is aged six months with a mix of Belgian candy and brown sugar, making for a deliciously sweet experience. Their Antler Brown Ale, a bestseller, also adds a particularly sweet equation to the mix with its delicious caramel aftertaste. Notably unique, this English-style ale is a dark beer with a surprisingly light taste. Bottom Line: Excellent brews and good times make a visit to Barley Creek well worth the trip.
Casco Bay Brewing Company Portland, Maine Casco Bay strives toward crafting quality American-style ale. Based out of Maine (a state commonly known for the brewing of British-style ales), Casco Bay delivers a highly drinkable beer that’s neither overly sensational or experimental...it’s just a damn good brew. The notables consist of Casco’s widely popular Pale Ale, a brew patterned off Chico, California’s Sierra Nevada, which is a West Coast pale ale often described as the definitive American-style ale. Another example of Casco’s distinctive taste is their Hopback, an ale which takes advantage of the under-utilized (and generally expensive) hopback process. The process brings a fresh aroma to the brew without any of the associated bitterness, bringing a true essence to the hops that the drinker can truly notice.
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Bottom Line: American-style done exceptionally right, which is never an easy task.
The first of Allagash’s experimental Barrel Aged series, the Curieux stands as the perfect introduction to the innovation of the brewery. The Curieux is their Tripel blend, aged in Jim Bean Bourbon barrels and carrying an assortment of new flavors and aromas, such as vanilla and coconut. For those interested in the Tripel on its own, this distinctive brew is a Belgian-style wheat beer with heavy undertones of coriander and orange peel. The mix carries just enough hop to balance the sweetness of the malt, making for a long-lasting (and surprisingly smooth) finish. Bottom Line: Both distinctive and defined.
Shipyard Brewing Company Portland, Maine Under the watchful eye of Englishman Alan Pugsley (who, ironically, was called the most influential brewer in North America), Shipyard offers beer lovers truly traditional English-style ales with a lot of taste and one hell of a lot of drinkability. Originating from the Ringwood Brewery in Yorkshire, Shipyard uses an authentic English system, which features directly shipped Ringwood yeast that transitioned here to the US with flawless results.
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The Export Ale, Shipyard’s flagship brew, provides a classic golden ale taste akin to the ones found in Molson’s Export. With more color and more hops, the Shipyard Export works as a bigger, lighter and much more drinkable beer than most. Another classic Shipyard brew is without a doubt their Old Thumper, an extra special bitter licensed by Ringwood itself. It is a bit sweeter upfront than other English-style beers, but provides a deep backbody that keeps you coming back for more. Bottom Line: The next best thing to getting a passport to Merry Ol’ England. It’s that good.
Dogfish Head Craft Brewery
Harpoon Brewing Company
Rehoboth Beach, Delaware Judging by motto alone, Dogfish’s credo of producing “Off-Centered Ales For Off-Centered People” is quite a big leap from the traditional home-style ales of breweries like Casco Bay and Shipyard. Producing big, exotic microbrews since its original incarnation, Dogfish prides itself in its utterly bizarre attitude, beer names and brewing methods, which range from extreme yeast regiments on their stronger beers to continual hopping methods on their Pilsners and IPAs.
Boston, Massachusetts The largest craft brewer in the Northeast, Harpoon offers four year-round brews, in addition to four special seasonal ales. Formed to offer American drinkers the same number of choices C.E.O. Rich Doyle had previously found in Europe, the brewery strives to bring a richer beer culture to the Northeastern States.
The Shelter Pale Ale, their flagship brew, offers a versatile, malted beer that leaves a strong hold on your taste buds. Its nutty flavor derives from hints of walnuts and molasses, and goes great with standard on-the-go foods like burgers and pizza. For something a little darker, highly recommended is their Chicory Stout, which leaves a true assault on the senses with its bizarre blends of roast, chocolates, and hints of pepper. The unique tastes come courtesy of the Stout’s blend of chicory, coffee, licorice and other assorted flavors.
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Bottom Line: Bizarre, but in the most delicious way you can imagine.
Penn Brewery Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania Producing over eight different award-winning beers, Penn Brewery and its impressive lineup of authentic German-inspired brews have been referred to as “the BMW of beer.” Pioneers in the microbrewery movement, Penn was the first craft brewer in Pennsylvania and the first restaurant to open in the state to operate under a brewing license since before Prohibition. Now that’s innovation.
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Especially good is their German-styled Penn Dark, a 2000 Gold Medal in the World Beer Cup (the Olympics of Beer). Often referred to as the “Best Dark Beer in the World,” its flavor derives from hints of chocolate and coffee through its burnt roast and Munich malts, in addition to a very distinctive bread-like character. Also recommended is their Penn Weizen, a wheat beer with a banana-clove aroma (otherwise known amongst brewers as “the bubble gum flavor”). Made with 50% barley malt, the Weizen is light in color and body, highly carbonated and highly refreshing. It is as close to a beer garden in Munich as you can get. Bottom Line: A good American brew…German-style.
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Their best selling beer, the Harpoon IPA offers a medium body and a lot of distinct hop behind it. Its floral scent and citrusy taste fully round out the overall sensation, making for a rather unique IPA. Even better is their UFO Raspberry Hefeweizen, an addition to their UFO line, which adds a natural raspberry flavor to the unfiltered wheat beer taste. This is an excellent choice for the beer buff with a more fruit-centric taste. Ladies, we’d be lying if we said we weren’t talking to you. Bottom Line: A rather common selection with an uncommonly distinctive taste.
Sly Fox Brewing Company Phoenixville, Pennsylvania Now in its 10 th year of operation, Sly Fox offers craft brew aficionados a wide assortment of traditional beers, a full-scale brewery and two pub eateries, which bring out visitors from all over the East Coast. A great addition to the Sly Fox line is the introduction of their new 12oz can versions of the popular Phoenix Pale and Pikeland Pill brews, offering microbrew fans a unique change of pace and portability.
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The Phoenix Pale Ale, their medium-bodied and highly spiced version of the Great American Pale Ale, is a great example of an excellent mainstream craft beer. Made with British Pale and Crystal malts, and hopped with Cascades from the Pacific Northeast, the Phoenix offers microbrew drinkers a truly great beer available bottled and canned. For a slightly different drinking sensation, Sly Fox also offers their spritzy Saison Vos, a 7% alcohol Belgian-style brew (otherwise known as a Farmhouse Ale). Cork-finished, dry, and champagne-like, the Saison goes with just about any food you can think of, and is an interesting mix for beer fans and non-beer fans alike. Bottom Line: Traditional, with a healthy dose of innovation.
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Model: Nancy Yi. Hair and Makeup: Susan Margraff, Owner/Stylist - CS Studio of New Hope, PA. Assistant Fashion Stylist Jill Nguyen. Fashions courtesy Jan’s Boutique of Cherry Hill, NJ (www.JansBoutique.com). Location: Water Works Restaurant of Philadelphia.
As 2007 progresses, whether you are in a relationship or starting anew, resolve to shed the power suit at least once in a while. Rediscover your inner femininity and the surprising confidence one can find in softly flowing fabrics, lace and just a little sparkle. Photographs by Daniel Mezick.
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Both Pages - Model: Nancy Yi. Hair and Makeup: Susan Margraff, Owner/Stylist - CS Studio of New Hope, PA. Assistant Fashion Stylist Jill Nguyen. Fashions courtesy Jan’s Boutique of Cherry Hill, NJ (www.JansBoutique.com). Location: Water Works Restaurant of Philadelphia.
Remember M y S weetness
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Remember M y S trength
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Remember M y R esiliency
Models: Nancy Yi and Leonidas Agorastos. Hair and Makeup: Susan Margraff, Owner/Stylist - CS Studio of New Hope, PA. Assistant Fashion Stylist Jill Nguyen. Fashions courtesy Jan’s Boutique of Cherry Hill, NJ (www.JansBoutique.com). Location: Water Works Restaurant of Philadelphia.
Remember M y C onfidence
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Photo courtesy EB Realty Brokerage of Philadelphia (www.ebrealtysales.com).
Imagination revives dilapidated factories and
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spaces ready-made for entertaining.
With Profiles By Kate Wright
Lif e
Lof t
worn-down warehouses into chic new living www.magazineblu.com
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Since the 1950s in America, artists have utilized the high ceilings, vast expanses and massive windows of former commercial buildings as their optimum live and workspace. Once upon a time, these windows pulled the attention of sometime dreaming assembly line workers toward the light and activity outside. Later, the same windows directed warm beams of light inward, to illuminate color placed passionately by the artist on white stretched canvas, in the same rooms that had been vacated by the industrialists. How ironic that the former workers, often impoverished individuals who were stuck in a cycle of lower class struggle, used their imagination to focus on what was outside of the walls and windows, whereas artists of the loft movement brought their focus to the interior of the same former warehouses and factories, to bring their own imagination to life. New York, Boston and Chicago were the first American cities to embrace the transformation of empty commercial and warehouse structures within downtown areas into what are now referred to as lofts. Initially, these residences were reformed illegally, as they were commercially zoned. However, by the 1980s, zoning had changed due to the popularity and overwhelming public acceptance of the loft lifestyle. Now, cities from coast to coast have experienced a surge of loft development, including in Philadelphia’s Center City, New York’s Soho, Portland’s Pearl District, Dallas’ Deep Ellum and Chicago’s Printer’s Row. Even smaller cities, such as Chattanooga, Lexington and Des Moines have joined the movement. As part of the revitalization of formerly vacant or dilapidated buildings into living spaces, the urban environment as a whole is reenergized. When people move into downtown areas and warehouse districts, their need for easy access to basic necessities accompanies them. Grocery markets, salons, restaurants and cafes, boutiques and galleries soon follow the new residents into reclamation of a neighborhood that may have previously existed as empty buildings, parking areas and overgrown lots. Not only the loft occupants benefit from the changes, as downtown developments bring a certain “joie de vie” to areas once frequented only by corporate workers hungry for new places to dine, shop and relax for lunch and after work.
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Loft dwellers are, for the most part, single adults and married couples without children, who enjoy living without the responsibilities of suburban life, including lawn maintenance, longer commutes to work and general house upkeep. Further, these typically college-educated, affluent residents of urban environments enjoy being within walking distance to their favorite areas of socialization, dining, cultural attractions, entertainment, shopping and business. The beauty of lofts is the ease with which one may personalize and decorate the space. Most inhabitants opt for gourmet-style kitchens with stainless steel appliances and granite countertops, and bathrooms with large showers (or massive tubs) and the same quality appointments as the kitchen. Beyond those two rooms, the loft becomes more about the use of furnishings adequately scaled to the vastness of the overall space, as well as how each living and functional area are appropriated. Although there is generally an absence of internal walls dividing rooms, placement of furniture and rugs can dictate how the space is divided without obstructing views or freedom of movement. As for entertaining, the social benefits of living in a refurbished commercial space are many. Ceilings are high, creating an atmosphere wherein laughter, boisterous voices or music can dictate the mood of an event, as sound resonates clearly throughout the space. Kitchens are generally open to the rest of the floor plan, so the host may continue their duties without missing out on festivities or conversation with guests. Mingling is easy and unencumbered by walls, lack of floor space or furnishings. In a loft, parties are never just simple gatherings, as from most areas of the apartment one can hear and see all of the action, effortlessly creating a lighthearted, jovial vibe. According to Kay Toms, Interior Designer and Instructor of Etiquette and Protocol in New York, “Lofts encourage social gatherings by their openness of design wherein one area flows into the next. Use of color and placement of furniture can not only force the eye to move from one area to the next, but encourages traffic flow where guests may fluidly move, discover and interact.” Lofts are clearly large, airy and open spaces suitable for entertaining and socialization, but can a person who prefers a cozier atmosphere find peace and tranquility within a loft? Kay clarifies that “the industrial flavor of some lofts may at first appear intimidating to decorate, but can be warmed into cozy living space.” In order to section areas into more intimate surroundings, “Unpretentious, simple furnishings, large pieces of art, strong color and accessories lend themselves well to the loft and can aid in defining each area, such as the kitchen and dining spaces from conversation, work and sleeping areas.” Preceding page, top right: Abbotts Square Luxury Condominiums kitchen. Bottom: Lofts 640 living area and kitchen. This page, top: Abbotts Square living area. 2nd from top: Marine Club bedroom. 3rd from top: Marine Club living and kitchen areas. Bottom left and right: Marine Club living area. Photos, both pages, courtesy EB Realty Brokerage of Philadelphia (www.ebrealtysales.com).
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Profiles of Loftiness By Kate Wright The Cigar Factory, located in the Northern Liberties section of Philadelphia, gives its history away in the name, but today it has been converted into a residential building filled primarily with professionals aged 25 to 40. The current residents of this space perfectly portray the change of pace for loft living from artists and students to attorneys and bankers. With its fourteen-foot ceilings and hardwood floors, granite countertops and stainless steel appliances, visible brick, overhead piping throughout the living area and exposed beams in the walls and ceilings, these loft areas are just as original as their predecessors but have become too upscale for the starving artist or college student. It is hard to find a loft this nice for less than $500,000. Maintaining the respectability of its 90 year history, the bare bones of the building remain intact, yet the grand additions earmark its upscale reputation. “Unique is the only way to describe the Cigar Factory,” says loft owner, Randy Stern. Randy, a 25-year-old district sales manager for the financial provider HSBC, works long 60hour weeks and spends his free time taking his dog to the dog park and going to the art museum with his girlfriend. He enjoys a night out on the town, although he prefers bringing people to his place for socialization. He designed the layout for his loft with an architect, so he was able to plan for entertaining without jeopardizing his personal space. Eight foot walls separate his two bedrooms, so although his privacy is not perfected, he has maintained a significant amount of respect for it. Stern coined his loft “late night central” where he and his friends can get together, drink, eat, and party for as long as their tired eyes will allow. He occasionally throws a dinner party for an intimate group of friends, but with 1700 square feet, his loft can fit fifty people comfortably. The open space that designates his home as a loft creates a setting conducive for conversation and comfort for everyone present. Lacking the walls that traditionally divide a home, and most likely the people, all of his guests are able to mingle in a way that is not as easy in a house with separated rooms and quarters.
Photos, this page: Randy Stern’s Cigar Factory kitchen (top) and living space (bottom). Middle: Randy Stern. Mark Margraff, photographer. 85
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Vinnie and Michael, a couple living at Lofts 640 of Philadelphia, are the personification of the loft’s own union of the professional and the artist. Vinnie works as a sales promoter at a posh restaurant in downtown Philly; Michael is a painter and sculptor. This combination of what once was the sole inhabitant of the loft space, the artist, and what is now becoming the majority of loft dwellers, the businessman, mimics the presentation of the old and new that exists inside all refurbished lofts. Lofts 640, located six blocks north of City Hall, was originally a pharmaceutical manufacturing plant and then became a clothing factory where, rumor has it, the original “Members Only” jackets were made. Michael appreciates the preservation of the “original integrity of what the building once was” while gratefully accepting the modern-day conveniences that have been added. The 640’s lobby décor is eclectic in both old and new - a large painting of oranges suspends next to old doors carved with Asian symbols. The combined scheme works well, and the artist and the professional live well within it. Both men agree that the kitchen is the favorite part of their home, seconded by their three enormous walk-in closets that are each large enough for a small office. The kitchen has stainless steel appliances and plenty of cupboard space to fit their culinary gadgetry and espresso machines. Most of all, these two love their kitchen because they can cook while entertaining. The stove sits on an island facing the living room with a connected bar where three or four guests sit and chat while drinking a glass of wine or beer from the tap. The open, multifunctional area lightly sectioned into the kitchen, living and dining rooms also encourages mingling among guests, even after the cooking has ended. Comfortably seated, their home fits six to ten people, although twenty can gather for a louder, more raucous time. Fondue dinner parties are what make Vinnie and Michael famous, Friday nights bring homemade pizza night, and often you will find them karaoke singing with a small group of their friends. As their events, large or small, are so warm and inviting with infectious laughter and conversation, it is difficult to determine whether the loft itself encourages heightened socialization, or if Vinnie and Michael are just outstanding hosts. Perhaps it is a combination of both. Photos, this page: Vinnie and Michael’s Lofts 640 residence. Top: Exterior of Lofts 640 of Philadelphia. Middle left: Kitchen leading into Vinnie and Michael’s living area. Middle right: Vinnie and Michael. Bottom left: Living area. Bottom right: Vinnie and Micheal’s Bedroom. Mark Margraff, photographer.
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Photographs by Mark Margraff
Homes that once were symbols of status and style for our
founding families are being returned to their
social set.
Brownstones
Profiles By Kate Wright
original glory as the chic dwellings of today’s
Vastly different from lofts, the brownstone is another favorite type of revived dwelling in Northeastern cities. These beautiful, big old homes have housed generation after generation of families, and the history that lives inside can hardly be appreciated without further exploration. Walk down Elfreth’s Alley in Philadelphia and you will gain a clear perspective of life in the United States during the time of our founding fathers. A National Historic Landmark, this cobblestone alley is the oldest continually inhabited residential street in our country, dating back to the early 1700s. Elfreth’s residences are early rowhouses, now commonly referred to as brownstones, a name that derived from the reddish brown sandstone of which many such dwellings were constructed. This architectural style is simply a row of homes that share side walls with neighboring residences and are characterized by fairly uniform exteriors. Windows tend to be placed evenly from one home to the next and doorways are similar, as are front steps leading to the sidewalk. Such homes do range from the simple, working class design and construction of Elfreth’s Alley, to more extravagant, larger buildings such as in Society Hill or Rittenhouse neighborhoods of Philadelphia. Brownstones are also found in other cities, such as Brooklyn, Boston
and Washington DC. Rowhouses became the dwelling of choice in American cities during the birth of our nation and through the nineteenth century, as community populations expanded and homes indicative of industrial prosperity became desirable. The purpose of a brownstone home was simply that – to be a comfortable home, while occupying a small footprint in fledgling cities. Brownstone spatial arrangements gave flexibility to a family and allowed for entertaining guests as well as respecting the need for privacy. The houses were cut up into rooms and hallways, most commonly on three floors, with each floor and space designed for a specific purpose. The ground level housed the kitchen and family rooms; the parlor (second) floor, was intentionally designed for entertaining, with high ceilings and comfort for groups of people in the living and dining rooms; and the third floor consisted of bedrooms. Modern buyers of brownstones are not just purchasing a rowhouse, but also all of the original elegance of a home with wonderful spaces and centuries-old architectural ingenuity invested within the floor plan. They also have the added benefit of spatial flexibility. With room for both friends and solitude, brownstones allow for social, yet private lifestyles.
Photos, this page: The rooms of Ed and Caroline George’s Philadelphia brownstone home clearly evoke both history and modern comfort. Photographs by Mark Margraff.
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A Work In Progress By Kate Wright Philadelphia-based architect Jim Branch of DPK&A Architects has worked on numerous buildings in the city, and in his spare time, designs and refurbishes his own home located at 21 st and Naudain Street. Just north of famed South Street, these avenues are lined with threestory homes with brick facades and wonderful twists and turns on the interior. Jim has gutted most of his home but has managed to keep the original feel of the building. On the first floor lie the living room and kitchen. To the left, a spiral staircase twirls all the way up to the third floor. On the second story, Jim has created an office and entertaining space by separating two smaller rooms with double doors that open wide to create one larger room if necessary. He considered making this a spare bedroom for family and other guests, but decided against it so he would have more room for himself and for spending time with friends. More
and more, people living in these homes are renovating extra bedrooms into living areas for entertaining. On the third floor, the bedroom awaits. This is the only finished room in the house so far, and Jim has done an exceptional job. The original fireplace has been kept intact with new artwork above and on top of it. Entering this room feels like walking into a different time period that should require candles for lighting and heavy blankets for warmth. Jim has added a comfortable cleanliness that combines with the old to welcome him for rest and relaxation. His work does not leave much time for socializing in the present, but when Jim finishes his home, he will have the perfect space – enough room for dinner parties or movie nights, along with his own separate
quarters to retreat as the party nears its end.
Photos, this page: Restoration of a historic home is no easy undertaking and requires time, patience and perserverance, as exhibited in the progress of Architect Jim Branch (pictured below). Jim is personally andlovingly restoring his own home, despite a hectic schedule as part of DPK&A Architects of Philadelphia. Photographs by Mark Margraff.
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Social History By Kate Wright In the midst of Society Hill, historic brownstones are plenty. Years ago when Philadelphia was a baby, Society Hill was so called because William Penn donated the area to the Society of Free Traders. It was not upscale, but rather was filled with brothels and bars. Now Society Hill is a different place, and although the homes have been maintained in their original state, the area itself has grown in sophistication and class. Caroline George, residing at the John Drinker house at 2 nd and Pine, is proud of her brownstone’s original trim and cabinetry, hardwood floors and staircases. Every piece of her home is over two hundred years old, creating wonderful holiday warmth regardless of the time of year.
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Caroline and her husband, Ed, enjoy throwing parties, implying that just about anything can be cause for celebration in their home. Whether it is their annual Christmas party or summer parties, in which they excitedly open both the inside of their home and small backyard to guests, they often welcome up to ninety five people, although they are also fond of a smaller gathering with co-workers or close friends. Their residence is conducive to entertaining, with its many rooms and spaces for people to congregate. Various groups of people will meet each other, and voices, loud and soft, resonate throughout the house. The individual rooms create a cozy atmosphere with intimate places for conversations. As most people will find, Caroline swears the kitchen is the favorite meeting place, where the Georges always provide plenty of food, ranging from bowls of tortilla soup to catered hors d’oeuvres.
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Caroline appreciates the historic value of her property and the uniqueness of the experience of owning such a home. She feels that she and her husband are simply “stewards of this home,” that it is their job to preserve the integrity and the spirit that lies within. They want to share their space with others so their family and friends can appreciate the history, beauty and antiquity that adds to the atmosphere of their parties. But Caroline believes that the brownstone itself does not make a party good or bad. “As long as the right people are there, everyone will have a good time regardless of the space that surrounds them.” She loves to entertain because of the residence she and her husband occupy. But, the excitement and the happiness gained from her parties could be found in a loft, two-bedroom apartment, or single family home, as long as good people are involved.
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Photos, both pages: The Brownstone home of Caroline and Ed George of Philadelphia is a perfect example of modern warmth and comfort in a layout conducive for entertaining of guests. Frequently misconcieved as cramped and crowded, brownstones can indeed feel spacious and provide adequate space for a lifestyle of socialization, as the George’s home exhibits. Photographs by Mark Margraff.
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Morning Glory, Photo By Murray Peters
Seein eeingg Nature
in a whole new light By Curt Riedy, with foreword by Kimberly Toms
Everywhere we go, throughout each day of our lives, Nature surrounds us. Despite its ever-presence, we tend to bypass beauty and remark little on awesome and spectacular intricacies of every scene, creature and beam of light. Dawn blurs into day, day into dusk and evening into dark. The routine of our lives brings about a cycle that allows for little notation of what lies beyond the sidewalks and streetlamps of our ever-encroaching and sprawling cities. Occasionally we might step into our walking shoes or muddy boots and head down a dirt path for a day of fresh air and sunshine. But, do we, as the general public and sometime aficionados of the outdoor experience, really see the complexity and wonder of the Earth upon which we exist? One man does make note of every ray of light, palette of color and depth of scenery that he possibly can, both for himself and, thankfully, for those of us more inclined to stay within the bounds of our own front lawn or parkway. That man, Murray Peters of Utah, captures Nature in his own time, way and vision that is aptly named Illuminature. Imagine yourself high on a knife-edged ridgeline. Before you, a breathtaking display of light emits from a setting sun, illuminating the clouds that hover at your feet. You sit perched, completely mesmerized by beauty as the sun drops beyond the horizon. As dusk looms, the realization occurs that you haven’t any tangible form of light with you, neither a headlamp nor a flashlight. While scrambling desperately to traverse rocky edges and racing toward the trail, darkness envelops you. This may sound a little risky and perhaps borders on suicidal. But, for landscape photographer Murray Peters, just as long as he brings his camera, the experience will be worth it‌for all of us. 93
Water Rhythms, Photo By Murray Peters www.magazineblu.com
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Despite being his great passion, photography is not Murray’s profession. He’s been an independent financial advisor with Ameriprise Financial for over ten years. Regardless of having to maintain the day job, Peters’ primary reason for creating his art comes from an unrequited love for photography and the breathtaking surroundings that make up his current home of Salt Lake City. A native of Texas, the 42 year-old single father has a deep affection for capturing the beauty found in the American West. In particular, the bulk of his work involves the Colorado Plateau that extends into the Beehive State of Utah, where he now lives with his 14 year-old daughter, Madison. Peters’ love for photography awakened in junior high and his current artistic passion grew out of hiking, with both hobbies forging together toward initiation into nature imaging in 1996. “I loved to hike, to be out there with nature,” recalls Murray. “One day, it finally just dawned on me, ‘God, I really need to bring a camera.’” As a single parent, Murray takes advantage of any opportunity to share his hobby with Madison. In fact, his daughter has naturally developed a love of photography and recently acquired her own digital camera. Although Madison occasionally accompanies her father on his shoots, the result is generally that of her becoming tired during the associated trek, as well as that classic anecdote one would expect to hear while hiking with their teenage daughter, “I’m bored.” Peters has developed a portfolio of incredible material. For instance, his depiction Across the Waters captures a breathtakingly vivid reflection of a sunrise in the waters of a mountainside lake. The shimmering reds, yellows and golds in both the lake and night sky provide an equal balance that perfectly illustrates Peters’ talent. Another fan favorite is the piece entitled Sanctuary, which explores the exquisite beauty of cavern rocks. The imagery of the piece takes a firm hold on the viewer’s eye, and makes perfect use of the cavern’s natural color palette. Like the giving nature of Peter’s photography itself, his website, Illuminature.com, also plays a much-appreciated role in benefiting the landscapes from which it lovingly borrows. He supports the beautiful lands he photographs by contributing a portion of the website’s profits to charitable organizations that dedicate themselves to the preservation of our environment as a whole. As he claims, one of the main goals of Illuminature is to provide more than an aesthetically pleasing collection of images, as a “reminder of the condition of our world” in both its beauty and suffering. Photos by Murray Peters: Below - Teton Thirst Top right - Final Approach 2nd from top, right - Sandcurrents 3rd from top, right - Subterranean Bottom, right - The Journey
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While it’s easy to see how Peters plays a vital role in the planet’s betterment as a photographer alone, the uncommonly honest artist will openly admit to mistakes made along his way. “One day I loaded up my gear and cruised down to Southern Utah, which was a good couple of hours away from home,” recalls Peters. “Once I arrived, I began to unload everything and realized I forgot my mount for the tripod, which is one of the most important tools for capturing exposures that often take several hours. Needless to say, I had to pack everything up right there and head back.” Even some of Peters’ most admired photos were accidental. This is most notable in the piece entitled Teton Thirst, which features a moose settling down to an afternoon drink. “I was in Grand Teton National Park, setting up this really beautiful angle and at the last moment he just walked right into frame,” Peters noted, laughing to himself. “That moose really ended up making the shot.” A testament to the painstaking art of landscape photography, the moose from Teton Thirst demonstrates the awe-inspiring results derived from the perseverance required for every single picture. Another fantastic example of Peters’ patience is Aurora, a photograph taken in the Upper Antelope Canyon in Arizona. “To capture [the canyon’s] natural beauty, you need to wait for the different beams of natural light to appear,” states Peters, explaining the shot process. “You just sit for hours, watching them move. It’s all incredibly beautiful.” While the photographs themselves require an endless amount of skill, the task of naming his creations is, for Peters, a much simpler process. “Sometimes the subject is a formation with a specific name, and I just go with that. Often, it’s a name of my own creation, a stream of consciousness thing. Just clear your head and it’ll pop in there. No method, just whatever evokes.” Next up for Murray is a road trip to Yosemite National Park, a very iconic location for the artist. The park brought endless inspiration to a major hero of his, the great photographer Ansel Adams. Although he might one day venture to locations elsewhere (camera in tow, of course), Peters’ main inspiration will always be the American West. “I could spend years knocking out national parks around here. It’s just endless beauty.” As for any international aspirations, Peters sees himself heading to the Himalayas in Nepal, but not right now. “Obviously, I think I’d like to wait for the political situation to calm down a bit.” His other photography plans for the future? “Continue to sell through private collectors and decorators. One day I’d like to have a physical retail store, but I don’t know how much of a reality that will ever be.” What’s most important to Peters is the desire to continue his craft in the most sincere of forms, to keep the romance alive and bustling. “It’s an outlet, not a vocation. Most of all, I want to continue to love it. I’d like to swap my professional positions [from Financial Advisor to Professional Photographer], but it’s really something I do just because I love to do it.” Although his initial methods were a bit askew, Murray sees real potential in just how far he can take his photography. “I put it out there backwards,” he admits. “I was learning how to do it as I went. My friends and family would encourage it, and I’d just keep pushing. Basically, what motivated all this was a desire to share, to expose the public to just how wonderful and beautiful this part of our country can be.” Peters’ photographs are displayed and available for sale at www.illuminature.com.
Photos by Murray Peters: Far left, bottom - Wavelength Left, bottom - Gatekeeper Top, right - Angel Tears Middle, right - September Bells Bottom, right - Thor’s Hammer
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Cyberspace Courtship
Addictive? Is Internet Dating
Kimberly Toms
40 year-old Robert sat at Melinda’s computer desk for an hour and a half after she had slipped into a black lace negligee and sauntered over to show him that she was feeling amorous. She had initially thought he would come to join her in bed after another five or ten minutes, as he said he would, but after a couple of additional prompts and his third answer of “I’ll be right there,” 36 year-old Melinda decided to give up and send him a clear message by changing into flannel pajamas and going to sleep. Robert and Melinda had been dating for seven months, after meeting one another through one of the most well-known and reputable Internet dating sites. Melinda remembers, “After the first month of our relationship, I ‘shut down’ my profile, so we could enjoy our time together and I could get to know him one on one, without the constant distraction of emails from other men. Plus, I thought it was a kind of cyberinfidelity for me to leave my profile, advertising me as available, up on the web for everyone to see. Robert wanted to be exclusive, so exclusive I was.” Robert, on the other hand, kept his profile both intact as “single/not in a relationship” and active, despite the longevity of their time together and insistence that he is happy in his relationship with her. After seven months, Melinda said, “He still checks his emails from other women every day, several times a day. I hate it. It is like he is keeping himself occupied by me, yet still shopping for another girlfriend. He is virtually cheating on me with the other women’s profiles.” One would think that Melinda might give up on Robert and leave the relationship, but she defends her continuation with her boyfriend. “I have asked him about it repeatedly. I ask, ‘Why are you still on the site,’ and ‘You were online for six hours today. So what are you doing?’ To all of this, he simply says things like, ‘My friend at work uses my profile for fun’ and ‘I wasn’t online. The computer system is wrong.’ It is extremely frustrating and I feel like I should leave him. The problem is that the rest of our relationship is fantastic. So, why leave?” But, how fantastic can a relationship really be, if Melinda dons sexy lingerie and Robert would rather look at random profiles online than enjoy the woman who is right before him, in his bed? “I think he might be addicted to the thrill of the hunt and chase,” Melinda said with a slight frown. “In fact, I know he is. He is slightly insecure about himself, so I think this fluffs up his ego.” Robert and Melinda are not unique. Magazine BLU conducted a short online survey in February 2007 regarding the subject. According to those results, 70% of the respondents aged 30-44 years believed that people can, indeed, find themselves obsessed with the online dating experience. Of the 30% who did not believe it is a possibility, males were most likely to discount the potential of addiction, at a rate of 2:1. Lisa J. Peck, Community Advocate, author of over a dozen awardwinning books and creator of The Redemptive Community concept for
combating violence and abuse, weighs in, “I absolutely believe Internet dating can be addictive.” She continues, “The addict may feel a surge of power, as they log on and gain the interest of other parties. Characteristics of someone who is out of control are that other areas of their life are falling apart or suffering, and that they are more apt to experience most of the relationship online, versus a desire to be with a living, breathing human being.” The general consensus from the Magazine BLU survey respondents seems to be that the biggest sign of a potential addiction is a constant desire to check one’s emails. Karen, an attractive 41 year-old Philadelphian and online dater for two years, believes, “I think it is a problem when you see they are listed as ‘online now’ literally 15 minutes after dropping you off at your front door” after a date. Another indicator to Karen is “when guys do a traditional ‘cut and paste’ message in order to reach as many girls as possible. Sometimes, they send the same message to the same girl several times. Or, having your messages forwarded to your blackberry on the beach since you can’t live without the instant notification of a ‘wink’ is a bit ridiculous.” According to Lisa Peck, there are several steps one may take to ensure a person of interest could possibly be open for an authentic relationship, versus one experiencing a search addiction or simply being a poor prospect:
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Ask your prospect about prior relationships, including why they broke up. If the prospect shifts all of the blame to the other individual, won’t answer the question at all, or doesn’t have relationships to report on, it is better to move on to another profile. It is possible that avoidance of these questions, or odd answers, reflect an inability to develop or maintain a balanced, healthy relationship.
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If emails are sent between prospective dates for weeks, even months on end, that may be a red flag that one of the parties does not have the desire or intention to meet. Lisa states, “Excessive emailing builds a fantasy. You should meet as soon as possible, definitely within the first couple of months, to avoid hurt feelings in the event the reality does not measure up.”
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If your prospect has falsified one item of information, including their age, they are very likely to be dishonest in other areas of their life and to you. According to Lisa, “Even lying about their age, although it is a small lie, indicates they are not comfortable with who they are. They probably have low self esteem, poor integrity and might not believe that people could be accepting of them, as they are.”
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Weed out emails from non-compatible people with values that differ from your own. This sounds simple, but if someone is
UBSCRIB
seeking to meet you, but their interests and values do not seem to be similar to yours, they may be eager to meet the person in the photograph, not the person you are within.
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“In this day and age, it is actually important that daters conduct at least a quick Internet search for information about their prospect,” Lisa believes. Use Google or another search engine to verify that the person lives in the town they say they live in, are being honest about their work and have not committed major crimes.
Of the survey respondents, 10% said that they sometimes feel a growing addiction to the Internet relationship search, themselves. For most of these, the indicator is their growing obsession over checking emails to see if a new potential target might have sent a message, as well as uneasiness when email is not accessible. If you feel you are slipping into a potential obsession with your online dating process, Lisa says, “Make clear goals such as, ‘On Monday I will not use the Internet.’ Continue that until you are able to comfortably spend time away from your computer. Also, chart your dating site usage time, as compared to your time away. If you see a pattern of abuse, make the goal of combating the excessive usage.” As in all subjects interlaced with a tone of negativity, at least one beacon of positive energy shines through. One such beacon is Ellen, a blonde, 40 year-old Philadelphian. When asked whether she believes people can become addicted to online dating, she promptly replied, “No. I just think people are addicted to love.”
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Ms. Peck’s latest book, due out in April, is “Stop Marrying Mistakes: Using Principles to Claim a Healthy Relationship.” She co-authored with Kevin Skinner, PhD.
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DIGITAL EDITION
The Pleasure Chest 2039 Walnut Street Philadelphia, PA 215.561.7480
gadgets.
Windows Vista just released January 30, 2007. So, what new toys should you consider as you upgrade? TM
Sony VAIO VGX-TP1 (left) is a stylish PC that delivers a high-performance entertainment experience so users can enjoy their favorite live and recorded TV and movies or surf the Web from their sofa using the wireless keyboard or remote control. MSRP $1599 (www.SonyStyle.com).
The Toshiba Portege R400 (right) is a Windows Vista™-inspired signature mobile PC that incorporates innovative connectivity and display technologies to provide timely access to e-mail and appointments via Active Notifications and is built on Windows SideShow™ technology. MSRP $3499 (www.Toshiba.com).
The Medion UMPC (left) is an ultra-mobile PC that provides multiple input options such as a keyboard, a pen and touch capabilities, and features the new Origami Experience, a user interface that optimizes entertainment and communications on the smallest class of personal computers running Windows Vista™. MSRP $999 (www.MedionUSA.com).
The HP TouchSmart PC (right), a Windows Vista™-inspired PC that introduces the convenient touch-screen experience to desktop computing, serves as a fast and easy-to-access information, communication and entertainment hub designed to fit wherever life happens: in the kitchen, family room or living room. MSRP $1799 (www.HP.com).
The Canon HDV10 is the world’s smallest HD camcorder. It is Windows Vista™ Premium Ready and comes with full 1920x1080 image capture for $1,299. A 10x optical zoom lens and 2.96 Mega pixel CMOS image sensor ensure meticulous detail and superior color reproduction. Easy to use, the camcorder makes it easy to take, edit and share both video and still photographs (www.USA.Canon.com).
Display, store and receive digital images anywhere with the launch of the Momento wireless digital picture frame from i-mate, for as little as $200 for the 7-inch size (www.Momentolive.com).
The HP Photosmart D7360 Photo Printer, when used with the Windows Vista™ operating system, enables users to easily print high-quality photos — in as little as 12 seconds. MSRP $200 (www.HP.com).
fitness.(in small spaces) You have a typical city apartment, or your home is filled to the brim. Need a great fitness machine with a small footprint to fit into your cramped life? This is the one for you!
Sleek. Sophisticated. Oh-so-smooth! centerG Elliptical Trainer By Keys Fitness With fourteen built-in workout programming options, the choice of pacing on a virtual track or up steep mountain hills, the seven unique training programs will keep you motivated as you burn calories, tone your muscles and increase overall flexibility. This one machine firms your abs, tightens glutes, increases endurance and energy. Plus, it works your deltoids, pecs, lats, triceps, biceps, quads, hamstrings and calves...for a full body workout! The centerG also offers five separate heart rate programs with interactive technology, so you can target the specific heart rate level necessary for your maximum fat burn and cardiovascular conditioning. CenterG’s footprint is the most compact in its class, at 54”L x 30.5”W x 67.5” H. The live area is 67”L x 30.5”W x 68.5”H. So compact, yet the machine can support a user of up to 300 pounds! www.keysfitness.com MSRP $2499
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The New Definition of Dutch
Jeff Wyatt
It was a true New York first date. I arrived at her place casually around 8 p.m. and we took a cab from SoHo into Chelsea for an 8:30 meal, which stretched on until about 11:30. We shared a great deal of conversation over those three L.A.-based Comedian Jeff hours, not to mention two bottles of Wyatt muses upon love’s wine and a litany of food. It was rapier-like charm in a amazing to be on a date with someone viciously paced world who actually held my interest for the where relationships have entire evening. The awkward become more disposable pauses, the blank stares, the eyes than celebrity and more meandering to other p e o p l e ’s desirable than diamonds. dates never materialized. It was simply simple. First dates are never this easy or enjoyable. Despite its inevitability, I am still rattled when I realize I have to tip the waiter ninety dollars at the end of dinner. Maybe it is my modest Midwest upbringing; an upbringing of moderately priced restaurant meals being a splurge and the common courtesy of a twenty percent tip for adequate service. I secretly wager that it is because my parents only frequented one restaurant when my brothers and I were growing up. They knew that one day we would make a scene and the only thing that would save them from complete humiliation was having the wait staff know an appropriate tip awaited them. This proved to be quite the perspicacious P.R. move on my parents’ part. I don’t know if you’ve ever seen a pair of dentures thrown into a 70 year-old woman’s cleavage, but at age 11 it seems a perfectly acceptable tableside practice. Those twenty percent tips came in handy that night. As I reached into my coat pocket, and was ready to kiss that new iPod goodbye, a funny thing happened on the way to the forum, the forum being the waiters’ hand, that is. Before I could retrieve my card she had already placed hers into the waiter ’s possession and off he went. I stared at her blankly for a moment, the first silence of the night between the two of us. She did not let it linger. Her explanation could not have been any simpler: “I don’t care. I asked you out. Deal with it.” I was floored. Not only was that shiny new iPod back in my life, but a new definition of “Dutch”
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Musings was introduced to me. I am sure my grandmother was spinning like a rotisserie chicken in her grave at the notion of me not paying for a first date; she who spent countless hours instilling in me what it means to be a gentleman when out with a woman, simple courtesies: order for her, pull out her chair, stand when she leaves and arrives at the table, and most of all, pay the bill! And here I am, kicking back and saying to myself, “This feels pretty damn good. I could get used to this. Do I have to put out now?” Because let me tell you, I’m not that kind of girl… As I was kicking back and allowing myself to be treated to this exorbitantly priced meal, I came to a frightening realization. This is how women are planning on taking over the world! From birth we, as men, are genetically predisposed to being taken care of by a woman. We are feeble, weak, and exceptionally co-dependent. By “being the man” we could easily lose our power to women. As a whole, the male species would love to subscribe to our own lethargy. If we had to do very little work to be afforded the same comforts we are accustomed to now, we would succumb at the drop of a hat. But, the question remains, could I realistically go from wearing the pants in a relationship to wearing a super cute new pair of culottes? The resounding answer was an unequivocal, “Hell yes!” And why am I okay with that? First off, I have great legs, compliments of my grandmother, and can rock a pair of culottes better than any man should. Secondly, I honestly don’t care. Being “the man” in the relationship is just fodder for insecure pricks or those who are so entrenched in the way they think it should be that they lose sight of how it could be. Here I am, dating a wonderful woman; we have amazing conversations, compliment one another very well and most importantly, we challenge each other. That challenge is the sexiest thing about her. Not the attempt to impress her, not at all. But, the allure of being even more of a man than I am now for her. None of which requires me covering a tab. It is simple to stay even in our relationship. I generally cover the small things and a few select nights out, but when she wants to take in an opera or the symphony, she takes care of it. That is the wonderful thing about this, when she wants to do something, we do it. I couldn’t be happier to be rid of my “male ego” as it were. Being on equal standing with the person you are intimate with opens so many doors to a relationship. I have dated one too many women who leave the decision making process up to me. Yes, it is okay to defer from time to time, but when she never makes a decision, that’s when I make the decision that I am better off without her. So let us recap here: I have admitted to being the one too timid to make the first move by being asked out by a woman for a first date, been paid for on said date, and let all of you know that I have sported a pair of culottes in my relationship. But, I still feel like a man. I still know my “man” part works. Not that part you sick-minded pervert— my right thumb, the one that controls the remote. I don’t care how many dinners she covers in our relationship, or holidays we enjoy together on her buck, there is one portion of my manhood that is not up for sale or dismissal, the ability to change channels. If you think I am stupid for holding onto that one last sacred piece of guy-dom, I have one simple statement for you. It rings absolutely true in allowing myself to not be “the guy” in my relationship, and just as true in relation to my opposition of my remote being controlled by estrogen: “I don’t care, deal with it!” 102
The Dead Art Of Love Letters On New Year’s Day 1807, Napoleon Bonaparte wrote to Madam Marie Walewska, “I have seen only you. I have admired only you. I desire only you.” Alexander Pope, the English poet, wrote to one of his sweethearts, Martha Blount, in June 1724, “Absence is a short kind of death.” To Lady Emma Hamilton in January 1800, Horatio Nelson, the English Admiral, penned, “I can neither eat nor sleep for thinking of you my dearest love, I never even touch pudding.” Just reading these loving words induces a longing for those days of romance, gentility and flowery hand scribble on parchment paper. If agreeing with this, however, one must consider a question: Why don’t the men of today court their crush with admitted passion and sentiment laced with desire, sometimes spoken, at other times lovingly handwritten and delivered to the post office? Better yet, why must women of this century settle for anything less than the efforts put forth by so many noble and everyday gentlemen of the past? Where are our Knights in Shining Armor, on bended knee with sword drawn, under our balconies as they profess of our beauty? I grew up in a house with two large balconies. I don’t recall anyone calling me out of my suite so they could make proclamations and professions of my greatness. Neither has anyone, to my knowledge, skipped eating their pudding because of their heartache over my absence. While considering these questions, a girlfriend and I ventured back to my favorite neighborhood pub, The Bishop’s Collar. It is typically elbow-toelbow with a sampling of college students, professionals and your random Irish bloke, some of whom might even occasionally raise my eyebrow with an interesting variation on an old pickup line. I watched the patrons bustling about, leaning on the wall with their ale and sitting at various candlelit tables. In seeing couples interacting and as some of the younger guys tried their wits on the ladies, I realized that there were several cell phones being used, by members of the crowd, at any given moment. In fact, in the two hours we were there, my girlfriend spoke to two different men on her cell, as if the conversations were so urgent that they couldn’t take place at a later time or in another, more private, arena. The more she gabbed with them, the more time I had to ponder why men are not as heavy in verbal and written pursuit of women as in the “old days.” Although I became progressively irritated by being slighted by her for these silly talks that could be done at some other time, her desire for the instant gratification of hearing these men’s voices now, rather than later, brought me to a realization: Why would a man, or woman, see the need or have the will to write a handwritten letter to their potential mate, when we are so infatuated with using email, phones and other technological resources to stay in touch? Further, how can anyone form the passionate, angst-ridden, obsessive longing as sampled in Napoleon, Pope and Nelson’s love letters to their ladies? We spend so much time staying in touch that there is a certain redundancy in speaking to one another again, even greater, in exerting energy to write. Who has time to consider, even more so to create, gut wrenching desire for another human being these days? The three aforementioned and historic lovers were all traveling when they wrote to their women. In their days, traversing thirty miles, much less many more off to war or for occupational or recreational pursuits, was
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such a huge undertaking and took so long that moments spent as a face-toface couple were precious. Time spent apart became time during which the memories about their stolen moments within physical proximity were pondered and even seasoned into a bursting ripeness of that wonting to have what was once held, but then quickly ripped away. As was once said, “Absence makes the heart grow fonder.” The closest modern parallel that I can draw to the distances that created such yearning in relationships of those days is that of my ex-husband’s assignments in the US Armed Forces. He left, most often during winter, for three, six or more months at a time. I remember well how much I longed for him as he was away. During that time we were unable to speak by telephone more than once or twice per month, for about fifteen minutes. So, we wrote lengthy letters to each other. I found some of his the other day and read them, astounded by his loving and sweet sentiments that I had so long ago forgotten he could either possess or express. I am sure that somewhere he still has a stash of the same type of correspondence from me. Then, shortly after his return from duty, we would fall back into our normal routine and found that being together became less passionate and more focused upon the raising of children and fulfillment of all of the associated familial obligations. The shine always wore off the penny after the first couple of weeks back in each other’s arms. Despite our hotly burning desire when we were apart, we never could seem to connect when we were together. If our letters were found by a historian a couple of hundred of years from now, what a different picture they would paint of our relationship! I thought about all of the love letters I have received in my lifetime. In doing so, I realized that every single one, not counting the one left by the horny Air Force officer on my windshield one day post-divorce, was a direct result of not having access to telephones for a lengthy period of time. In fact, my last love letter was well before the invention of email. While sitting there on that bar stool last Thursday, in between cute interruptions by a 28-year old banker in a nice pinstriped shirt, I decided that no one really has much of a chance of building up that painful knife-in-thestomach hunger for another human being that we used to, prior to email and cell phones. In fact, we really are capable of irritating the hell out of each other by using these technologies, aren’t we? As my girlfriend finally ended her second call to her second guy, I decided that I will have to cut my favorite guy, whomever he one day is, some slack and appreciate that I have him, not longing so much for the outdated gesture of love letters. I will go to my mailbox each day and expect only bills. I am also old and wise enough to know that something as superfluous as written professions of emotion do not necessarily accompany a great relationship. As the adultress Girolama Piccomlomini wrote to James Boswell on Valentine’s Day 1766, “When one loves, one never lacks words.” Equal to that idea, I must assume that when one really loves, what is unspoken and unwritten holds much more value than that which is openly expressed. But, I can still quietly hold out some hope that one day, as I reach into my wallet or approach my car’s windshield, I might find some sweet sentiment scrawled on a scrap of notepaper. That is, I hope for something better than that which the horny Air Force officer wrote: “I was pumping my gas across the street and saw you. I think you look hot in your red dress. I want to take you to lunch.” Oddly enough, this officer who was no gentleman scribbled an offer that was very similar, albeit less direct, to that of Prince de Joinville, a French aristocrat, who quickly passed a note to actress Rachel Felix after his first sighting of her in 1840. The Frenchman simply wrote, “Where? When? How Much?” At least she was more quick-witted in her response than I was when responding to the airman. She replied, “Your place. Tonight. Free.”
Katie O’Neal
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