WIMPY KID AUTHOR
TELLS ALL
FINANCIAL PLANNING
FOR PARENTS
REAL ESTATE RIGHT NOW
MARCH
2010
March 2010 Established 1986
WWW.NEWYORKFAMILY.COM
The Novogratz clan, the stars of Bravo’s 9 By Design.
LIVING NEW YORK FAMILY
LARGE
What Happens When You Raise Seven Children In The City While Running A Hip Design Company? You Get A Reality Show On Bravo TV
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Unit 20D available for sale with or without Williams Sonoma Home furnishings and Wally Findlay Galleries artwork. Sponsor: 86th & 3rd Owner, LLC, 60 Columbus Circle, New York, NY 10023. The complete offering terms are in an Offering Plan available from Sponsor. File No. CD-06-0533.
UNITED NATIONS INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL
SUMMER DAY CAMP June 28th through July 30th, 2010
WWW.UNIS.ORG For children 4 to 14 years old Swimming, Basketball, Soccer, Tennis, Chess, Computer, Arts & Crafts, Hip Hop & Tap Dances, Robotics, Math, English & ESL…
Office of Special Programs 1-212-584-3083 Email: ljalilvand@unis.org
Not every kid wants the same kind of camp, and we want happy campers! That’s why Summer at St. Bart’s offers three options that include swim every day: St. Bart’s Day Camp • June 8–August 20 • Ages 3 ½ to 7 Swimming every day Sports and fitness Arts and Crafts Science Dance and Movement Drama Island Sports • June 21–August 20 • Ages 7 to 13 Swimming every day Arts and Crafts Athletic instruction: Tennis • Soccer • Football • Basketball • Kickball • Baseball Adventure Camp • June 21–August 20 • Ages 7 to 13 Swimming every day Arts and Crafts Science Sports and fitness Dance and Movement Drama Around the city trips...two per week: Yankee Stadium tour • Top of the Rock • The Duck Tour The Metropolitan Museum • and so much more… Summer at St. Bart’s offers flexible scheduling, the Breakfast Club, Lunch and After Camp program. To register or schedule a family tour contact Eileen Reddy at 212.378.0203, reddy@stbarts.org or look at our website www.stbarts.org.
St. Bartholomew’s Church
325 Park Avenue at 51st Street • www.stbarts.org • 212.378.0203
©Scott Frances Photography
ENVIABLE VIEWS. ENDURING VALUE.
Two and three bedrooms with breathtaking views from $675K to over $1M.
L U X U R Y C O N D O M I N I U M S O N R O O S E V E LT I S L A N D
Today, every bit of green counts. With jogging and biking paths, playgrounds and parks set against a serene riverfront, Riverwalk Court on Roosevelt Island is the perfect balance of city and suburban living. For a limited time, take advantage of the extended homebuyer tax credit • FHA & Fannie Mae approved 1 stop on the F train or 59th Street tram to/from Midtown
212.754.0455
riverwalknyc.com
Sales and Design Center: 415 Main Street New York NY 10044 The complete offering terms are in an Offering Plan available from Sponsor. File No. CD-07-0413. Sponsor: Riverwalk Court, LLC, 60 Columbus Circle, New York, New York 10023. Riverwalk Court Condominiums 415 Main Street, New York, New York 10044.
©Scott Frances Photography
Artist Rendering
©Scott Frances Photography
Closings in Progress • Immediate Occupancy • 20 Year Tax Abatement
edit ’s
NOTE
EDITOR AND CO-PUBLISHER Eric Messinger emessinger @manhattanmedia.com ART DIRECTOR Mitchell Hoffman mhoffman @manhattanmedia.com D8I:? )'('
EXECUTIVE EDITOR Leah Black lblack@manhattanmedia.com
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STYLE DIRECTOR Joy Sherwood jsherwood @manhattanmedia.com
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PUBLISHER John Hurley 212-268-3086, jhurley @manhattanmedia.com ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER Mary Ann Oklesson maoklesson @manhattanmedia.com SENIOR ACCOUNT MANAGER Jane O’Donovan jodonovan @manhattanmedia.com SALES ASSISTANT Patrick O’Connor pjoconnor @manhattanmedia.com CIRCULATION John Baxter jbaxter @manhattanmedia.com Joe Bendik jbendik@manhattanmedia.com ADVERTISING COORDINATOR Jennie Valenti jvalenti @manhattanmedia.com BUSINESS MANAGER Shawn Scott sscott@manhattanmedia.com ACCOUNTS MANAGER Kathy Pollyea kpollyea @manhattanmedia.com MANHATTAN MEDIA PRESIDENT/CEO Tom Allon tallon @manhattanmedia.com CFO/COO Joanne Harras jharras @manhattanmedia.com FOUNDING PUBLISHER Barbara Witt MARKETING DIRECTOR Tom Kelly tkelly @manhattanmedia.com EVENTS MANAGER Stephanie Musso smusso @manhattanmedia.com New York Family is a division of Manhattan Media, publishers of AVENUE magazine, Our Town, West Side Spirit, New York Press, Mitzvah Magazine, The Capitol, City Hall, City Arts, Chelsea Clinton News, The Westsider and The Blackboard Awards. © 2010 Manhattan Media, LLC | 79 Madison Avenue, 16th Floor, New York, NY 10016 | t: 212.268.8600 | f: 212.268.0577 www.manhattanmedia.com
6
New York Family | March 2010
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GROUP PUBLISHER Alex Schweitzer 212-284-9735, aschweitzer @manhattanmedia.com
Home Front
Reality TV doesn’t always show its subjects in the most favorable light. But if there’s one show that might just buck that trend, it could very well be “9 By Design,” whose stars are this month’s cover story. Robert and Cortney Novogratz are selftaught design gurus who make a living out of transforming wrecks and empty lots in New York City into beautiful, high-end homes—all while raising their seven kids (no, that’s not a typo). And they’re showN_Xk ?Xgg\ej N_\e Pfl IX`j\ J\m\e :_`c[i\e @e casing their knack for doing so beginning K_\ :`kp N_`c\ Ilee`e^ 8 ?`g ;\j`^e :fdgXep6 Pfl >\k 8 I\Xc`kp J_fn Fe 9iXmf KM on Bravo in April. If our interview with them on page 50 is any indication, we think we’ll learn just as much about cool design from their new show as we will sensible approaches to raising kids in the city. We’re honored to have the Novogratzes kick off our semi-annual family real estate guide. We often hear about the difficulties parents face in deciding where to live, and we hope that this month’s articles help answer some of your questions. If you’re just beginning your search, check out our detailed guide to the city’s family-friendly buildings, from the Upper West Side to Battery Park City (page 54). For families unsure whether to buy or rent, we’ve asked real estate experts for their opinions on both in this economy (page 60). Thinking of going green? See our tips on what to look for in an eco-friendly building (page 62). Plus, wherever you live, don’t miss our story on how to design stylish living spaces moms and dads will love, but that also accommodate the needs of kids (page 64). We always like to include a story for both new parents and parents of older kids in every issue, and this month we have two we really love. New moms will find a lot to relate to in our interview with Vicki Glembocki, who wrote the brutally honest memoir, “The Second Nine Months,” in which she details her rocky adjustment to parenthood (page 26). Parents of older kids will hopefully find some kernels of wisdom in our talk with Adele Faber. Over 20 years ago, she penned the now-famous book, “Siblings Without Rivalry,” and we’ve found that her ideas about fostering better relationships between siblings apply just as well today as they did then (page 28). Though we still may be in winter mode, this month marks the beginning of spring. If you’re like some of us and haven’t planned the family getaway you’d been intending to take this season, we’ve put together some ideas for last-minute vacations near and far (page 74). Not that you have to head out of town to have a good time. Our culture guide (page 78) is packed with shows, museum exhibits, and kid-friendly events to hit up. In the end, no matter where we live, or whether our apartment is a haven of high-end design or not, most of us have settled in the city because we can’t imagine raising our kids anywhere else. So make this month about enjoying the place you’ve chosen to call home. J^[ Dele]hWjp YbWd" j^[ ijWhi e\ 8hWleÊi / 8o :[i_]d$
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PHOTO EDITOR Andrew Schwartz aschwartz@manhattanmedia.com
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Daniel S. Burnstein, Heidi Green, Thaddeus Harden, Jennifer Lee, Josh Lehrer, Sarah Merians CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Janet Allon, Michelle Levine, Lisa Loverro, Jennifer Maslowski, Brittany McNamara, Arielle Patrick, Tanisia Morris, Lyz Pfi ster, Elisabeth Reed, Hannah Rubenstein, Molly O’Meara Sheehan, Mary Squillace, Teresa Tobat, Lanchi Venator, Kate Willard
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DEPUTY PRODUCTION MANAGER Heather Mulcahey hmulcahey@manhattanmedia.com
SENIOR EDITORS Katie Main kmain @manhattanmedia.com Meira Drazin mdrazin @manhattanmedia.com
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DEPUTY ART DIRECTOR Jessica Balaschak jbalaschak@manhattanmedia.com PRODUCTION MANAGER Mark Stinson mstinson @manhattanmedia.com
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Happy March,
LEAH BLACK, EXECUTIVE EDITOR
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR | Please address to: Eric Messinger, New York Family 79 Madison Avenue, 16th Floor, New York, NY 10016 or to newyorkfamily@manhattanmedia.com www.newyorkfamily.com
+++++ i&YUSBPSEJOBSZw $VTUPNFS 3BUJOH JO The Lila Guide: New Parent Survival Guide ,JEWJMMF OBNFE i#&45 0'w CZ New York Magazine
Camp Kidville 2010! Camp Starts May 10th
Registration is Underway! Campers and their counselors visit different classrooms where specialists lead them through all kinds of activities - gym, arts and crafts, music, and hands-on exploration.
upper east side: 163 East 84th St. (btwn 3rd & Lexington) NY, NY 10028 phone: 212.772.8435
Little Maestros @ 69th St. 344 East 69th St. (btwn 1st & 2nd) NY, NY 10021 phone: 212.772.8435
200 Church St. (corner of Duane) NY, NY 10013 phone: 212.362.3923
upper west side:
park slope (annex):
466 Columbus Ave. (btwn 82nd & 83rd) NY, NY 10024 phone: 212.362.7792
808 Union St. (corner of 7th) Brooklyn, NY 11215 phone: 718.569.2150
tribeca (annex):
Ages: 18 months â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 5 years
Camp Kidville is the hottest and coolest place to play in the spring and summer! $MBTTFT t #JSUIEBZ 1BSUJFT t *OEPPS 1MBZTQBDF t #PVUJRVF t "/% .03& Camp continues for 16 weeks through the week of August 23rd, unless noted. Camps start and end according to session dates in 2, 8, 12 and 16 week increments. Call your local Kidville location for specific pricing information.
www.kidville.com
Living well in Manhattan GLENWOOD
Near the Best NYC Public Schools • Unparalleled Service • Fitness Center • Children's Playroom & Swimming Pool • 24-Hour Doorman • Magnificent Lobbies • Landscaped Gardens • Exciting City Views Spacious Layouts • Building-Wide Water Filtration Systems • On-Site Parking Garage UPPER EAST SIDE 1 Bedrooms from $2,195 2 Bedrooms, 2 Baths from $3,570 3 Bedrooms from $5,035
MIDTOWN EAST & UPPER WEST SIDE 1 Bedrooms from $2,655 2 Bedrooms from $3,660 Conv 3 Bedrooms from $4,365
TRIBECA & FINANCIAL DISTRICT 1 Bedrooms from $2,745 2 Bedrooms from $4,395 Penthouse conv 3 Bedroom $7,695
UPTOWN LUXURY LEASING CENTER
DOWNTOWN LUXURY LEASING CENTER
1440 York Avenue between 76th & 77th Streets
10 Liberty Street at William Street
888-304-5171
800-483-9131
Open 7 days, 10AM-6PM • NO FEE • Free parking while viewing apts • Equal Housing Opportunity • net effective rent, new tenants only
GLENWOOD
LUXURY MANHATTAN RENTALS
GlenwoodNYC.com
IT’S NOT TOO LATE TO REGISTER FOR YOUNG FAMILIES AND AFTER SCHOOL WINTER CLASSES! 10% price rollbacks on many Young Families and After School classes! Free trial classes are available upon request. From sports to the arts, science to dance, and everything in between, JCC classes are unparalleled! All children ages 4 months to 18 years are welcome.
JCC
THIS MONTH AT THE
DON’T MISS THIS MONTH’S SPECIAL EVENTS: Fostering Self Control in Young Children Studies show that an appropriate level of self control in toddlers is an early predictor of academic success, good relationships with peers, and the ability to manage stress in the future. Learn how to encourage important skills such as self-soothing. With Meg Akabas, parenting consultant with over 20 years’ experience and mom of four. Wed, Mar 10, 7—8:30 pm, $20/$25 FPASEL00W0
The Joanie Leeds Band Join kids’ singer/songwriter JOANIE LEEDS and her amazing band as they rock out to her clever, fun and original kids’ tunes from her Parents' Choice Award winning CD, City Kid!. With her healthy blend of rock, folk, soul and pop, this interactive show is not to be missed! Sun, Mar 14, 10—11 am, $12/$14 in advance, $14/$16 at the door FFNCON01W0
Caring for your Newborn Baby This hands-on workshop will teach prenatal parents to find humor and joy in the care routines for your new babies. Topics covered include: questions to ask before you leave the hospital or birthing center; preparing the home for the baby’s arrival; circumcision and umbilical cord care; bathing and dressing; breastfeeding; how to handle a colicky baby; and a lot more! Led by Andrea Syms-Brown, IBCLC, CIMI, with 20 years of experience as a newborn care specialist/educator. Snacks will be provided. Thurs, Mar 18, 6:30—8:30 pm, $40/$50 FPACBA02W0
Passover Holiday Workshop Have a great time with your little ones while showing them the joys and traditions of the holidays. Featuring special songs, crafts, noshes, and more. For families with children ages 2—5. Mon, Mar 22, 3:30—4:45 pm, $20/$25 FSHWHW02W0 Photo by Randi L. Klein
Amsterdam Ave at 76th
jccmanhattan.org 646.505.5708 A beneficiary of UJA-Federation
March 2010 volume 23, issue 10
INSIDE
44 COLUMNS
6 24 26 30
70 FEATURES
44
MEET THE NOVOGRATZES The stars of Bravo’s newest family docudrama are two design gurus and their seven kids living in downtown Manhattan. Can they showcase their passion for home renovation on TV without losing their sensible approach to parenting?
48
38 66
New York Family | March 2010
20
STARTING OUT
News from New York Family, including upcoming events, contests and giveaways, and other noteworthy happenings
A mom’s brutally honest memoir chronicles her rocky transition into parenthood
GROWING UP An interview with famed parenting author Adele Faber on what causes sibling rivalry—and how to handle it
A GOOD IDEA It’s not just a bean bag. Myachi is a grade-school craze that nurtures athleticism, requires a positive attitude, and is a lot of fun
WELCOME TO THE FAMILY
22 70
BUZZWORTHY A must-have guide to raising city kids, tips for spring gardening, and more ideas for March
KID CULTURE The month’s best live performances and museum exhibits for families (page 76); plus, an interview with “Diary of A Wimpy Kid” author Jeff Kinney (page 80)
A SPECIAL PLACE A beloved childhood institution for two generations, Discovery Programs offers creative classes and forges meaningful connections
66
TREATS A roundup of inspired stationery and invitations for every occasion
OH THE PLACES YOU’LL GO Still haven’t booked a spring getaway? Check out these five family-friendly vacation ideas
FAMILY REAL ESTATE NOW uA guide to some of the city’s best family-friendly buildings, organized by neighborhood (pg 48) uExperts weigh in on buying vs. renting an apartment in the current economy (pg 54) uA look at what goes into creating an eco-friendly building (pg 56) uHow to design a familyfriendly apartment that doesn’t sacrifice on style (pg 58)
12
32
EDITOR’S NOTE Thoughts from the home front
DEPARTMENTS
68 82
PIGGY BANK For parents worrying about their finances, experts weigh in on everything from college savings plans to everyday budgeting
ON SECOND THOUGHT When her son and daughter end up at different schools, a mom struggles with her own feelings of rejection
THE COVER: Robert and Cortney Novogratz and their seven children, Wolfgang, 12; twins Bellamy and Tallulah, 11; Breaker, 9; twins Five and Holleder, 4; and Major, 1. The boys’ shirts are by Ralph Lauren. Photographed by Josh Lehrer (joshlehrer.com). Shot on location at the Novogratz home in downtown Manhattan.
www.newyorkfamily.com
I AM I am South Beach hospitality, perfected. I am refreshed, renewed, revitalized. I am inviting your family to experience the best getting better.
MI AMI EXPECTING YOU
loewshotels.com/miami 877.563.9762
B E ACH
Spring has Sprung, Fairies Sing, Butterflies take flight, This month our â&#x20AC;&#x153;Spring Playdateâ&#x20AC;? is sure to delight. Sp ri t ely ga
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Because Once Upon A Time Is Now 345 East 85th Street 212.879.0956 www.uppereast.com/letsdressup.html
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Improve Up to TWO GRADE LEVELS! One-On-One Tutoring & 3 Week Summer Programs Grades Pre-K to 12 ✐ Reading comprehension & writing ✐ Multi-sensory math ✐ Phonics instruction & reading fluency ✐ State test preparation ✐ Study & organizational skills ✐ Orton-Gillingham based instruction ✐ Dyslexia & ADD programs ✐ Home tutoring available in NYC, Brooklyn, Queens, Westchester and New Jersey ✐ We accept Department of Education funding at the enhanced rate for special education students
EBL Coaching • 212-249-0147 Dr. Emily Levy, Director www.eblcoaching.com
LA SCUOLA D’ITALIA GUGLIELMO MARCONI
12 East 96th Street, New York, NY 10128 www.lascuoladitalia.org Tel. 212-369-3290 Pre K-12th Grade Announcing 2009-2010 Scholarships for Middle & High School Levels
La Scuola d’Italia is a private unique Italian/English bilingual and bicultural school reÁecting the best features of the Italian and American education. Graduates attend North American as well as Italian and European Union best Colleges and Universities. Knowledge of the Italian/ English language is not a pre-requisite for admission to Pre-K through 9th grade. La Scuola d’Italia is chartered by the Board of Regents of the State of New York and by the Ministry of Education of the Republic of Italy. The School is a member of the New York State Association of Independent Schools. For more information, please call 212-369-3290 or email secretary@lascuoladitalia.org
SUMMER DAY CAMP +VOF "VHVTU Join the best Summer Day Camp in Manhattan for our 22nd summer of fun, ďŹ tness and friendship. Pee Wee and Junior Camps ages 4-8 â&#x20AC;˘ Swimming â&#x20AC;˘ Sports â&#x20AC;˘ Arts â&#x20AC;˘ Music â&#x20AC;˘ Weekly Field Trips
Senior Camp ages 8-13 â&#x20AC;˘ Swimming â&#x20AC;˘ Sports â&#x20AC;˘ Team Competition â&#x20AC;˘ Outdoor Adventures
Spaces are Limited. Sign up today at
asphaltgreen.org/camp. Call 212.369.8890 ext. 2084 for more information.
DAY CAMP OPEN HOUSE â&#x2014;&#x2014; Saturday, March 13
1-3pm
No reser vations necessar y â&#x20AC;˘ 555 East 90th Street â&#x20AC;˘ NYC
N E W ! S E N I O R D AY C A M P O P E N H O U S E â&#x2014;&#x2014; Sunday, March 14 1-3pm â&#x2014;&#x2014; Saturday, April 17 11am-1pm No reservations necessary â&#x20AC;˘ St. Davidâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Sports Center, 215 East 94th Street â&#x20AC;˘ NYC
Asphalt Green â&#x20AC;˘ 555 East 90th Street, New York, NY 10128 â&#x20AC;˘ 212.369.8890 â&#x20AC;˘ asphaltgreen.org â&#x20AC;˘ BUS SERVICE AVAILABLE
State-of-the-Art Dental Spa
We want to be part of your family. tribecasmiles.com CALL 212.473.4444
44 LISPENARD STREET NY, NY 10013
Jack Mitchell, DDS Stephanie Strickland, DMD Orthodontics: Rita V. Taliwal, DMD, MS www.pediatricdentistNYC.com 305 East 55th St. New York, NY 10022
between 1st & 2nd Avenues 212-755-3355
MINI SESSION 8 Weeks $299
Come see why weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re the global leader in classes for kids
March 8 - May 2 Classes, unlimited playgyms & makeups
The best programs for the best price!
Art
(Ages 18 mos. - 5 yrs.)
Inspire creativity in visual and interactive arts.
Music
(Ages 6 mos. - 5 yrs.)
Explore music through songs, instruments and activities.
Play & Learn
(Ages 0 - 5 yrs.)
Nurture confidence, curiosity and physical skills on irresistible play equipment.
Sports
(Ages 3 - 5 yrs.)
Sample and learn the basics and help your child find a favorite.
Double Your Fun! Enroll Now For Spring Early Bird Specials
Family (Ages 6 mos. - 5 yrs.) A family-style class for mixed ages. Bring one child or bring all your children to one class!
School Skills
(Ages 2 1/2 - 5 yrs.)
Develop key social and intellectual skills in our Preschool Alternative program.
Upper East Side
Murray Hill
Midtown East
401 E. 84th Street
235 E. 38th Street
677 Lexington Avenue
212-452-9814
212-867-0250
212-838-4301
Upper West Side
Tribeca
West Village/Chelsea
877-GYM-LEARN
240 W. 73rd Street
100 Reade Street
327 W. 14th Street
manhattan@gymboreeclasses.com
212-724-2140
212-566-2795
212-255-5650
gymboreeclasses.com
Welcome to the Family Prizes
UPCOMING EVENTS
AND
GIVEAWAYS
GET YOUR CAMP ON: There are great summer camps for every family budget and every child. And whether youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re looking for the right sleepaway camp, local day camp, or specialty camp, our popular and well-regarded (and FREE) camp fairs, co-sponsored by the American Camp Association, offer parents and children the opportunity to meet over 50 camps and camp directors. In March, weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re hosting camp fairs for families on Saturday, March 13 from noon to 3 p.m. at Lycee Francais de New York (505 East 75th Street) and on Sunday, March 14 from noon to 3 p.m. on the Upper West Side (location TBA; check newyorkfamily.com for details). Families who pre-register at newyorkfamily.com, and attend, will be entered to win ďŹ ve tickets to the big circus (â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Greatest Show On Earthâ&#x20AC;?) at the end of March at Madison Square Garden.
On The Catwalk: This month weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re giving away a copy of Atariâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s brand-new Project Runway Wii game! Based on the hit Bravo reality show, the game allows players to take on the role of aspiring fashion designer, becoming a participant in â&#x20AC;&#x153;Project Runwayâ&#x20AC;? and designing fashion lines, choosing models, walking the catwalk and running a photo shoot! To win, write to us at newyorkfamily@manhattanmedia. com, putting â&#x20AC;&#x153;Project Runwayâ&#x20AC;? in the subject line, by March 15.
CHILD DEVELOPMENT EXPO: New York Family is the media sponsor of the 2010 Young Child Expo & Conference, which brings together early childhood professionals and parents who want to learn about services, resources, and products to help children reach their full potential. The event covers typically developing children as well as those with special needs, including autism. Parents can visit with exhibitorsâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;including schools, childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s activity programs, and non-proďŹ t organizationsâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;and attend a variety of lectures by leading parenting experts. The expo is on April 9-10 at the Hilton New York City (1335 Avenue of the Americas). Register at youngchildexpo.com to attend; starts at $95.
IN OTHER
NEWS Classical Baby
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If your kids are involved with athletics, or youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re CDL=:G: thinking of introducing them to a sport, check out ID GJC4 our sister publication, New York Family Sports. A monthly newspaper, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s dedicated to covering childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s sports in the city, from ages 0 to 18â&#x20AC;&#x201D;from kiddie leagues to high school teams. It also boasts an in-depth website with great resourcesâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;ďŹ nd out anything from where to sign up for tennis lessons to how to join a basketball team. Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s also advice from doctors, nutritionists, and coaches, proďŹ les of kid athletes, and in-depth coverage of local games. Parents and kids will like the websiteâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s community billboard, where you can post videos, photos, and stories. For more info: newyorkfamilysports.com. 'FCSVBSZ XXX OFXZPSLGBNJMZTQPSUT DPN
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New York Family | March 2010
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RC I T Y PA R E N T S ’ H A N D B O O K “City Kid New York” is the latest
WORTHY
RB U D D I N G GREEN THUMBS Spring is almost here, and one great way to get kids reconnected with nature is gardening. Whether you’re looking to transform your window sill or start a backyard flower patch, check out the Brooklyn Botanic Garden’s book, “Gardening with Children” for ideas for plants kids can easily maintain ($8.95; shop.bbg.org). If you’re lacking a green thumb, pick up an Easy Bloom plant sensor ($42.95; amazon. com). The electronic device tells you
must-have resource for city parents ($18.95; amazon.com). Written by local mom Alison Lowenstein, the guide is geared toward ages 4 to 12 and is filled with after-school activities, weekend excursions, community service ideas, dining, shopping and entertainment options for kids and families. It also comes with a City Kid Yellow Pages, replete with web resources and organizations to help your child take a bite out of the Big Apple.
RV I P M O M Want to ditch your sweatpants for a hip night out? Youareonthelist.com, founded by NYC mom of two Robin Ross, can help. Register on this website for free (unless you want access to their Invitation Only Events, which requires an annual fee of $500) and receive invitations to exclusive events in the city, like Fashion Week, film premieres, art openings, and other typically industry-only events. This spring, the site is launching a list of events exclusively for parents!
which plants will grow in a particular
PLAY BALL!
spot—simply stick it in the soil and
Baseball used to be an essential part of an NYC childhood, and kids used to play
then into your computer’s
their games everywhere: schoolyards, streets, sidewalks. To help fill the void in
USB port.
this baseball-loving city, there’s On Deck, a new children’s baseball program, with classes for kids from 2-14, along with travel teams for older kids looking for a bigger commitment. The programming itself is backed by a winning team: Audrey
THE CHECKLIST FOR
Kaplan, the founder of Applause Theatrical Workshops, and Raymond
March
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De La Cruz, who, between his experience, skills and joy of working with children, seems like every kid’s (and parent’s) dream coach. For more info: ondeckny.com, info@ ondeckny.com or 646-808-4926.
RN E W N U R S I N G P I L L OW New moms looking for ways to make breastfeeding more comfortable should check out the new nursing pillow by
Balboa Baby ($45.99; babiesrus.com). Developed with the help of lactation consultants, its soft and contoured
design fits around the mother easily without the use of buckles or straps, while also naturally rolling the baby slightly forward for a more relaxed feeding position. Like all nursing pillows, it also helps ease stress on the back, neck, and shoulders. And this one comes in a range of stylish cotton covers to choose from!
22
New York Family | March 2010
www.newyorkfamily.com
Starting
Out
BY LEAH BLACK
In A Brutally Honest Memoir, Vicki Glembocki Offers A Funny And Thoughtful Account Of Her Rocky Transition Into Motherhood
V
icki Glembocki knew being a new mom would be difficult, but she wasn’t prepared for all the overwhelming feelings of doubt and uncertainty that would plague her first nine months of parenting. In her memoir, “The Second Nine Months: One Woman Tells the Real Truth About Becoming a Mom. Finally,” she lays it all out there: the day she decided to leave her husband but didn’t, the time she checked her email instead of her crying baby, and her overwhelming feelings of guilt about returning to work. In the end, Glembocki finds her footing (and is now the proud mom of two)—but getting there wasn’t easy. Your book centers around the idea that motherhood isn’t what you expected. What did you expect, and what was your reality? When I was pregnant people told me two things: You are going to be tired and you’re not going to have time to shower. So I totally believed that I would be stinky and sleepy, but sitting there all stoned out on maternal bliss. That expectation alone was my entire downfall. I went through a lot of feelings of insecurity, feeling that I didn’t have the maternal gene and was doing everything wrong. A lot of moms are reluctant to admit thoughts like these. If there is one thing that everybody believes
24
New York Family | March 2010
Motherhood
Uncensored
when it comes to motherhood, it’s that it’s the most important job in the world—they put quotes around that. And when you have a 2-week-old or 6-month-old sitting there who will not stop crying, and you feel like you are doing everything wrong, do you want to tell anybody that you are failing at the most important job? So you put on this front: I’m fine, we’re fine, it’s fine. How much of mothering do you think is instinct vs. learned? I think a lot of it is instinct, and I know people who, the moment that baby is in their arms, feel that immediate bond. I also know an equal amount, if not more women, for whom being a good mother was learned—and that’s my experience. My kid and I—we had to get to know each other. I needed to get a grip on yesterday, no baby, today, baby. It was a huge transition that I don’t think many people give enough gravitas to. You knew from the onset you’d return to work, and negotiated a four-day work week. Do you have tips for other moms hoping to go back part-time? You need to ask for what you want. When I walked in there to talk to my boss about a fourday work week, I was thinking he’d say, ‘Are you freaking kidding me?’ But it worked. It also helps to do research: are there other people at your company who have different schedules? I know people who are job sharing now. I also know moms who have to work
and would love to stay home. And that is a painful experience. That is not me, I am not that mother: I am better at being a working mom. How would you say a marriage or relationship changes once a baby comes into the picture? It changes completely. I like my husband better now as a dad than I did before—and that’s a crazy thing to say. We have rediscovered each other. My husband paints my daughter’s fingernails. I had no idea that he was the guy who was going to paint his daughter’s fingernails! But, like me, he also went through an identity crisis—which is why, in the beginning, he wasn’t helping, he was going to the gym after work [instead of coming home]. He was holding onto the life he had before. We both were trying to figure out, Who am I now that I’m a mother, a dad? What’s one piece of advice you’d like to give new moms? Whatever emotion you are going through is okay. Now, if you think you want to put the baby in a microwave, you need to call a doctor—that is postpartum depression, and it’s serious. But there is a whole lot of emotion between maternal bliss and postpartum depression we are allowed to feel. You are not crazy because the last place you want to be is with your baby. Another piece of advice is to meet other new moms. Get out of the house and find the mommy & me class, the moms group, the coffee shop—wherever it is you can meet women who are exactly in the stage you are in. G www.newyorkfamily.com
3lbFamilynyaugout.ai
7/20/09
4:19:16 PM
Growing UP
B Y E M I LY W E I S S
AMIR BARASH
CAN’T YOU ALL JUST GET ALONG? Famed Parenting Expert Adele Faber Explains The Roots Of Sibling Rivalry—And How Parents Should Handle It
I
t has been over two decades since Adele Faber and Elaine Mazlish penned the book that has become many parents’ bible. “Siblings Without Rivalry,” which offers a compassionate philosophy and practical, no-frills approach to teaching parents how to help their children get along, became a “New York Times” bestseller upon its 1987 publication. Twenty-three years hence, it persists as the definitive guide for desperate parents seeking to quell sibling animosity. We spoke to Faber about the book’s ideas—and how they remain as relevant today as ever. What’s at the root of sibling rivalry? There are many roots. The first is the advent of the second child, which signals less for the first child— less time, less attention, and fewer hugs. Everyone is cooing over the new baby, so the question comes up, “Is she worth more?” Then the conclusion is, “If she is worth more, then I’m worth less,” and that translates to the possibility of being worthless, and that’s scary. And so the child fights for his place in the sun.
26
New York Family | March 2010
Is sibling rivalry inevitable? If you go through the animal kingdom, you’ll find the same dynamic. I think in the case of baby sharks, only one is born because if there are two in the uterus, they’ll fight each other. You’re dealing with some very primal forces here. In the book, you say that when parents try to reason with their children, it doesn’t work. For instance, saying “You need to be good to one another, because you’ll need each other in the future” is totally ineffective. Why is that? They’ll say, “I’ll never need him!” It’s meaningless. You need to deal with the present.
difficulties. Say something like, “You really wanted to make a circus!” and “You were especially mad because you had it first!” Having a problem respected and the difficulty stated really settles everybody and refocuses the whole issue from, “I’m going to kill him” to “What should we do now?” And then after the pause that follows, show them a lot of confidence: “Now, you two figure out something that will be fair to you, and fair to you,” as you point to each child. Then you give them privacy to let them settle the argument on their own. When a happy scenario does not ensue, you step in and make your judgment at the time [to resolve the argument].
So, what would be a step-by-step approach for parents who are trying to resolve a fight between siblings? Immediately step in and acknowledge their feelings. Then acknowledge the problem aloud, verbally. Acknowledging the problem is not the usual approach; most parents minimize [their children’s] problems. Recognize that their problem is not easy, and give them respect for their
Did you come up with these ideas through raising your children? Yes, definitely. There were scenarios, such as “He’s hurting the baby,” or “He’s punching her,” and I remember thinking, “What do I do?” From reading Dr. Spock I learned that if the older one is being mean to the younger one, then that means he needs hugs. He’s attacking the baby because he’s feeling unloved. www.newyorkfamily.com
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need to be treated equally; they need you spent pitching the ball and playing There are probably a lot of parto be treated uniquely. They may be catch with your friends (be very speents who have difficulty abanseeing each other in terms of receiving cific) really paid off! Did you notice doning the old-school notion equal treatment, but if you see them in the difference after all of your work?” of “tough love.” There have been terms of their individual needs, that’s And the little one who’s listening says enough studies now so that it’s not good enough. to himself, ‘Well, I didn’t make it, but a mystery anymore—kids who are what is it my brother did? My reared with parents who are acceptIn the case of baby sharks, only mother isn’t saying to him, ‘You’re ing and supportive of their feelings, one is born because if there are the greatest!’ or ‘I can’t wait to as opposed to parents who dismiss two in the uterus, they’ll fight tell Daddy and Grandma because feelings (i.e., “Oh, you’re silly to feel each other. You’re dealing with you’re thrilling me to pieces!’” that way!”)— those kids do betsome very primal forces here. Instead, she’s focusing on what the ter at every level. They have higher child needs to do to get what he self-esteem, they do better in school wants. The praise comes in terms of and they have better relationships with admiring and describing with apprepeers and friends. How do you avoid labeling a ciation the effort he made to get what child—and making one sibling he achieved. feel left out—without neglecting Even if there’s no apparent fightto give him praise for his unique ing between siblings, can there Since your book was published, still be underlying rivalry? You can talents? I never avoid giving them some of the kids who were raised praise for their skills, but I always do get some rivalry going in a second! on it are now grown up. If your it in terms of their effort and accom“Why can’t you be more like your lessons worked on them, what sister?” There, you’ve just established a plishment. Anytime you appreciate a kind of adults would you expect life-long enmity. It’s not hard. child, even if he has made the all-star them to be? Adults who are comfortteam, instead of saying “Oh, what a able with, and respect, who they are, At the same time, can parents great athlete you are,” especially if be too focused on treating their another child of yours who also enjoys and respect people around them for who they are and for the struggles that athletics is standing by, you say, “Wow, children as equals? I never worry life presents all of us. n all that work you did, all those hours about making kids equal. Kids don’t
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BY LYZ PFISTER
the business to become ‘Myachi Man.’” He bought a Winnebago, painted it and started traveling around the country going to concerts, festivals and colleges. At one of the festivals he met Loeffler, who said he could help market Myachi. “I got on the Myachi-mobile and never left,” says Loeffler, now known as The creators of Myachi show off a few tricks ‘Kid Myachi.’ At another festival, they introduced Myachi to two guys “juggling and skill-toying,” and six years later, ‘Crazy Ivan’ and ‘Pinky’ are now also permanent fixtures of the Myachi Masters, as they call themselves. The Masters consider themselves role models for their fans—known as Maniacs in the Myachi lexicon—and much like the ancient martial art from which Myachi is descended (and where its name originates), there are lessons to be learned from the game. The five “fingers” of Myachi are discipline, respect, self-confidence, are out there”, says Ochs. “And you know patience and passion. But the most imwhen that 8-year-old kid is passionportant part of the game? “That’s your ate about something, it consumes their self-confi dence,” Loeffler says. whole life.” But Ochs says that parents Parents may love the lessons taught love Myachi too because “they see their by the Masters, but kids love the kids and they’re moving, they’re rocking, game. Besides playing on their own they’re rolling, they’re exercising.” or with friends (the Myachi sacks cost Myachi was born in 1998 via Ochs’ $7 and are available at FAO Schwarz sewing machine—he conceived of the idea years earlier, basing it on a popular and myachi.com), kids can also have drinking game with a lighter. Though the Myachi Masters perform at their many of its principles remain the same— birthday party, Bar Mitzvah, or other special event. without using the palms of your hands, Ochs and his team also have plans throw the object while executing imposto introduce Myachi paddles, gloves, sible-looking contortions and manage card games and even to launch a Wii to catch it again—its purpose has shifted video game. from besting college-age drinking budBut, in the meantime, both the dies to bringing kids together. Myachi Men and their Maniacs are foAs Ochs and his business partner, cused on simply sharing their passion Jason Loeffler, are quick to point out, for the game with others. Myachi has such appeal because its tricks can be learned quickly, improThe valediction Ochs includes at the bottom of his Myachi emails has vised upon, and taught to others with become their battle cry: Spread The relative ease. “If a kid couldn’t do a Word And Keep On Jamming (STWAcradle-cradle-full-fusion-360, none of KOJing). “We’re not rock stars. We’re this would work,” says Ochs. not jock stars. We’re toy stars,” says When Ochs graduated from colOchs. Though, in the end, it’s the fans lege, he told his parents, “‘Hey, I want who are the biggest stars of all. Adds to make this toy.” Their response: “Get Ochs, “Their energy, their passion for a real job.’” He worked as a stockbroker for a couple of years, but soon “left it is just amazing.”G
Not Just For Kicks I t’s a Friday morning at FAO Schwarz, and despite row upon row of shiny new toys, most of the visitors are centered around an octagon in the middle of the store, where a slim young man with a ponytail is tossing around a small, rectangular beanbag-like object. Though tossing isn’t really the right word. The sack, propelled by his hands, cavorts through the air, twists under his legs, pops up behind his head, and magically revolves around his torso, before resting, once again, on the back of his hand. Two guys on other sides of the octagon are performing equally amazing feats. “That’s the mojo right there,” one of them says as he tosses the sack to a grinning 8-year-old boy with outstretched hands, back sides up, because this is Myachi, the game where anything goes—except you can’t use your palms. Called “the evolution of the hacky sack” by its creator, Steven Ochs, Myachi is one of the latest trends to sweep through the consciousness of 8- to 12-year-olds across the country. And it looks like it’s more than just a fad. “We have loyal, diehard followers that
30
New York Family | March 2010
www.newyorkfamily.com
Photo by Andrew Schwartz
A Mere Bean Bag To Hold, Myachi Is A Grade School Craze That Nurtures Athleticism And A Positive Attitude
A
speci
PLACE
BY ELISABETH FRANKEL REED
At left: Discovery Programs founder and executive director Lisa Stark, right, and program director Elaine Winter. Above: A tunneling tot enjoys a gym class at Discovery Programs.
The Age of I
32
New York Family | March 2010
Discovery A Beloved Early Childhood Institution For Two Generations, Discovery Programs Nurtures Creative Expression Through Inspired Classes And Meaningful Connections
daughters. She decided to combine her theater background with her experience as a mother, and launched a dance program with nine students. The program blossomed, and Stark saw other opportunities to meet the needs of families looking for quality classes in art, music and movement. As time went on, the program evolved into the Walden School Continuing Education Program, finally becoming Discovery Programs in 1982. Today, Discovery Programs has over 800 children enrolled in its various classes each semester. A different path led early childhood education expert Elaine Winter to become program director
at Discovery Programs. She had served as Lower School principal at Little Red School House in Greenwich Village for many years, and later directed The Parent Center at Henry Street Settlement. For Winter, child development has been a lifelong passion. “I think it’s the most important thing in the world,” she says. “If you had to choose one thing, what’s going to make a better world than healthy, sturdy, respectful, empathic children?” One of the highest priorities at Discovery is procuring talented and dedicated teachers. “We work very hard at finding the best teachers, and they stay for five, 10, 15 years,” www.newyorkfamily.com
Photos by Andrew Schwartz
t’s a bright morning in early February, and a new semester at Discovery Programs is underway. In the gym, a group of tots bounces on a trampoline as the teacher sings and plays the guitar. Down the hall, 2-yearolds play with blocks and dolls as soft music permeates the air. In another class, a group of children is focused intently on the morning’s art project— color-based collages. There are new classes, new faces and excitement in the air, but after 37 years, it’s still the tried-and-true programs, returning students and dedicated teachers that form the core of this Upper West Side early childhood institution. Located on the lower level of Congregation Ansche Chesed on West 100th Street, Discovery offers a broad array of classes for babies through teens, from favorites like ballet and gymnastics to the unconventional Action Hero Dance for 3- and 4-year-old boys. Discovery Programs began in 1973 as a much smaller venture. As a newly single mother, executive director Lisa Stark needed to find work to support herself and her two
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Stark says. They also provide ongoing training, often with outside experts, to help teachers grow. Quality and commitment are evident in the strong connection Discovery teachers maintain with their students. This is essential to the success of an early childhood program like On My Own, where children are separated from their caregivers for the first time. The class is designed to provide children with a forum for creative expression and socialization. Separation is a particularly critical event in a child’s life, Winter explains: “If they feel good about it that first time through, that’s their reference point, that’s their understanding. So we work to make that a success and not a wrenching event—ever.” On My Own is just one of four early childhood programs that Discovery offers; others include Almost On My Own, On My Own Plus and Practically Preschool. Each provides a structured learning environment to prepare children for elementary school by introducing rituals like attendance and classroom elements like job charts. It’s clear that children enjoy their time at Discovery. Former students now bring their own children to participate in the programs they loved, and current students return each semester to try new classes. A child might start out in a tots class like Gym For Tots or Art For Tots, then move on to On My Own, and then begin taking gymnastics (Discovery has even trained a few state gymnastics champs!). Tiny dancers can grow up at Discovery Programs, too. From Music, Dance and Storytime to Ballet and Jazz/Hip Hop, classes span a wide age range, and all ballet classes with at least five students have a live accompanist. The highlight of the dance classes is the end-of-semester recitals, when children take the stage to demonstrate what they’ve learned. And kids can even celebrate their birthdays at Discovery—party options include Discovery Loves Babies, Happily Ever After, Broadway Bound, and more. But Discovery Programs isn’t just about kids, Stark and Winter point out—it’s about families. Babies and toddlers are accompanied by parents and caregivers, and the programs boast a high number of class-going dads. Discovery also recently launched a New Moms Support Group to provide a place for new mothers to socialize and discuss topics that matter to them. Discovery Programs has come a long way from one dance teacher and nine students, but Stark—along with Winter and the rest of the Discovery faculty—has worked hard to maintain the core values that have made it so special to city kids over the years. The focus remains on providing children with a welcoming, stimulating environment in which they can learn, socialize and express themselves. “Parents come up to me and tell me that they’ll never forget Discovery because of the foundation that they had here, and how it set their child up for all their future experiences,” Stark says. G
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New York Family | March 2010
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March 2010 | New York Family
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Special Promotional Section
Making
Middle School This Fall, The Mandell School’s New State-OfThe-Art Middle School Empowers Students To Become Lifelong Learners—And To Make A Difference In The World Around Them
BY MARY SQUILLACE
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New York Family | March 2010
Matter
F
or many of us, middle school can be painful to recall. But for students entering the Mandell School’s new middle school on the Upper West Side this September, these years will be marked by intellectual growth, a sense of personal accomplishment, and the opportunity to make a lasting impact on the world. “All too often middle school can be the forgotten years,” says Gabriella Rowe, head of the Mandell School. “And we believe that these are some of the most important and formative years for children [to develop] their skills and how they feel about themselves as individuals, so their curriculum has to reflect a respect for their ability to make decisions for themselves, while at the same time giving them structure and parameters that allow them to know they’re safe.” Originally founded as a nursery school in 1939 by Rowe’s grandfather, Max Mandell, the Mandell School currently comprises grades pre-nursery school2nd grade, and will launch grades 5 and 6 in September. But no matter how big the school grows, Rowe intends for it to stay true to her grandfather’s original www.newyorkfamily.com
PHOTOS BY ANDREW SCHWARTZ
Opening Its Doors
Special Promotional Section
philosophy: that if a school provides structure, stimulation and a safe environment where children feel loved, they can achieve anything. “There is a specialness to Mandell that one does not experience at other schools—every person at Mandell knows your child,” says one Mandell parent. While its mission may be timeless, its new facilities are most definitely cutting edge. In the fall, students will find themselves in a completely renovated, state-of-the-art space located within two new buildings at 98th Street and Columbus Avenue. These facilities, which will eventually house junior kindergarten through 8th grade, span about 62,000 square feet together and contain an 11,000 square-foot library and media center, an 8,000 square-foot outdoor terrace, a professional-grade black box theater, and a full-sized gymnasium with floor-toceiling glass overlooking Central Park. Even more importantly, the middle school will be characterized by a forward-thinking curriculum. Mandell has developed a powerful pedagogy driven by small classes and an integrated curriculum, which means different subjects overlap and connect with one another in purposeful ways. Capped at around 20 students, small classes ensure students get the www.newyorkfamily.com
individual attention they deserve. “It’s very important that we create the time and space within our curriculum and within our day to make sure we get to know each of our children as individual learners and individual people,” Rowe says. In the middle school’s pilot year, there will be two sections of about 10 students in each 5th and 6th grade class. Consistent with the reputation of its well-regarded nursery and elementary divisions, Mandell plans to set a high academic bar for its incoming middle school class and will focus on developing well-rounded learners. All students will begin with a curriculum of foundational classes, but they will then have the chance to branch out based on their individual interests and learning styles. In addition to foundation courses, from 5th grade on, Mandell students will take Mandarin, as well as either French or Spanish. They will also participate in a rigorous drama program through 8th grade and stringed instruments courses in 5th and 6th grades. “All of our programs at Mandell are extremely academically rigorous, and that academic rigor in middle school takes on the additional dimension of independence,” Rowe says. At the middle school level, students will work with parents and teachers to identify their strengths, weaknesses, learning style and interests, which guide the trajectory of their educational path. “Many children have very clear ideas as to what’s hard for them and what’s easy, and if we simply take the time to talk to them and engage them in it, it’d be a lot easier to engage them in those challenges and build on those skills,” Rowe says. Another priority at Mandell is cultivating citizenship. Each class completes a community service project every year—this year, for example, 1st graders began developing relationships with orphanages in the Dominican Republic. In December, several students and teachers brought one of these orphanages an airplane-load of aid and spent time getting to know the children who live there. Now, the students are making presentations
about the project to corporations in the city in order to garner additional donations that they will deliver to the Dominican Republic in June. “If you can empower children that way at 6 or 7 years old, by the time they get to 10, there truly is no limit to what they can accomplish,” Rowe says. “So instead of us lecturing them about what they will be able to do when they grow up, we’re giving them real-world opportunities to make a difference.” The Columbus Square location is also designed to be an environmental teaching tool. With innovations, like floors made from post-consumer recycled rubber tires, toilets with solarpowered auto flush, and a caterer who prepares only locally grown, organic foods, the Mandell School demonstrates for students ways that they can make eco-friendly decisions in their own lives. “Middle schoolers will gain not only a greater consciousness about the world around them, but they’ll also be able to study the science of it, the math of it and the socio-economic impact of it,” Rowe says.
“We believe that these are some of the most important and formative years for children to develop their skills and how they feel about themselves as individuals.” Between its high academic expectations and dedication to promoting both civic and environmental responsibility, the Mandell School is poised to propel its middle school students into a lifetime of learning, instill in them a clear sense of self, and empower them to make a difference in their communities. “Mandell students know that privilege is a responsibility and education, particularly this kind of an education, is a privilege,” Rowe says, “And they know the responsibility that comes with that is paying it forward and taking it out into the rest of the world for the rest of their lives.” P 128 West 95th Street, 212-2222925, mandellschool.org March 2010 | New York Family
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WHEN HIP MEETS HOME By Lyz Pfister
New York City Design Gurus Robert and Cortney Novogratz— And Their Seven Kids— Are The Stars Of Bravo’s Newest Reality Show, 9 By Design. But Can They Showcase Their Passion For Home Renovation Without Losing Their Sensible Approach To Parenting?
Photography by Josh Lehrer ( joshlehrer.com)
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New York Family | March 2010
www.newyorkfamily.com
Their home, while elegant, is completely accessible, as are Robert and Cortney, whose approach to design is much the same as their approach to raising children—hard work, passion, going with your gut, and above all, fearlessness. It seems like your family’s docu-drama is poised to become America’s new reality TV obsession. What made you decide to put your life on the air? Cortney: We didn’t go into it lightly. We said no at first, and then we thought, maybe it’s an opportunity and a platform? Reality TV really is here to stay, and so many people do watch it, [and we have the chance] to do something slightly different and hopefully draw a more sophisticated audience. Even though there’ll be a small amount of bad that happens with it, it’s been a really positive experience. Robert: Our ongoing joke is, people said, “Did you have editing power?” and we said, “No, we edited what came out of our mouth.”
I
f the feeding, clothing and general maintenance of seven kids doesn’t sound like enough to keep two parents busy, try adding the management of a successful design company, packing up and moving to a new house, and publishing a home design book, all while being trailed by a video crew. But this frenetic lifestyle is one which Robert and Cortney Novogratz, stars of Bravo’s new reality show, “9 By Design,” inhabit with grace. The show, set to air in April, follows Robert, Cortney and their entourage—Wolfgang, 12; twins Bellamy and Tallulah, 11; Breaker, 9; twins Five and Holleder, 4; and Major, 1—as they revamp an office, gym, and boutique hotel, among other projects. Contrary to the drama in which so many TV families seem to swirl, Robert and Cortney exude an easygoing sense of calm, something that might stem in part from their Southern upbringing— Robert hails from Virginia, while Cortney is from Georgia. But these passionate New Yorkers have made the city their home since 1995, when they founded Sixx Design and transformed their first decrepit piece of real estate into a spacious, chic, and family-friendly home in the then-undesirable neighborhood of Chelsea. Since then, they have gutted more than 15 New York City homes, each of which the family lived in before moving on to the next project. I met with them in their current pad, a former BMW motorcycle shop that’s been transformed into a light-filled, art-filled, six-story townhouse overlooking the West Side Highway. www.newyorkfamily.com
How would you describe the show and its appeal? Cortney: I think it’s hip. I think it’s fresh. One thing we loved is collaborating on how we really wanted the show to feel and move. Robert: The production value is very high. It looks like a movie, not a television show. They hired a robotic crane that shot inside the house so you could look and see how we lived from the outside looking in. We got the first theme song ever for a reality television show [sung by] this cool indie band. And we showed off New York City. We shot a scene at the New Museum. We shot a scene on the Highline. We shot a scene in our favorite restaurant, Felix, in SoHo. In one scene I’m riding my bike with one of the kids on my handlebars through Greenwich Village. We show a lot of people outside of New York that New York’s as much a village as it is a city. Let’s talk about how you got into design. Cortney: We’re self-taught. When we first met, we were the only young couple going to flea markets, going to antique fairs, buying stuff, tying it on top of the car. And before we even got married we bought our first home in New York City. Because we had no budget, we did everything ourselves, and we realized that we were talented and we loved it and we wanted to do it again. And we could also earn money from it. How would you describe your design philosophy? Cortney: There are no rules. One freedom that we have is that we didn’t really go to school for design. So we go with our gut. And our style—we mix high and low. Vintage and modern. We love very expensive Italian furniture mixed with a flea market table. From high end art to our kids’ art. Robert: This is a pretty high-end house, but we do a ton of low-end design, things that anybody can afford. Especially in this economy, people are very budget-conscious. And taste and money don’t have to mix. In fact, most of the people we know who have good taste have very little money. March 2010 | New York Family
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So we try to show that off in a lot of ways. Cortney: Robert’s good because we love to throw parties, and you know, he never waits until everything’s perfect. He’s like, “Come on, we just moved in, let’s have a dinner party.” So, we do clean up and make a fuss and light candles and get flowers, but there may be a pile of toys in the corner. Nothing’s too precious. We use china for every day, we don’t wait for Thanksgiving. Can you tell me a little bit about how you choose your sites? Robert: It’s always downtown. We always try to buy on the fringe. The west of the West Side. East of SoHo. One of our sayings is the worse shape the better when we buy something. Because we’re gonna gut it anyway. Cortney: We look at anything—if it’s a parking lot, a condemned building—could it be a home? We bought a gun shop, turned that into a house. We bought a nightclub, turned that into a house. Robert: We are looking…at an ex-funeral home. The nice thing is that the foundation is already poured. ‘Cause I don’t want to dig too low. What’s it like working together? Cortney: I like it because when the kids are home from school, we don’t have much time for each other. Our date time is really when the house is quiet. We may be working, but we have our moments. Also, we invest the same. If we fail, we fail together. If we succeed, we succeed together. Do you think being parents has changed your approach to design? Cortney: Yes. You know why? Because our kids, especially the older they get, they’ll say what they want. Even Breaker was really interested in this staircase [pictured on the magazine cover]. And the more we travel, they mention things. They’ll say, “Oh, I like that.” And you go, “Oh, I never thought of that architecture or this style or that.” And we’ve always loved chipped and broken things—now we really love them. Because then the kids can go at it. For example, our kitchen table—you can color on it. You live for a while in each of the houses you renovate. Is it hard for the kids to move so often? Robert: People make a bigger deal of it than it is. We’ve moved three times in the last four years, but it’s kind of what we do. It’d be like if I was in the military, I’d move a lot. Or if I was an actor, I’d move from one job to another. People are like, “Those poor kids move a lot.” And I’m like, “Are you forgetting the fact that they live in a home with a basketball court?” These are not the kids to be worrying about. Cortney: Or they can do the opposite and say, “Oh, you have so much.” Well, the kids realize what they have. We work hard for it. It’s a juggling act in real estate. We hope when it’s all said and done, our kids [see] there are sacrifices [to make] to keep your career going.
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You guys seem to have a very sensible approach to raising kids. Robert: I guess we have a lot of sayings, but another one is, we try to keep our kids humble and hungry. Make your kid have jobs or chores. Push them [to make] sure they do their homework. That’s just our philosophy. People look at this house and say, “Oh, your kids have to share a bedroom,” and I’m like, really? The sacrifices that they made and we made—they have some pretty good rewards. They go to private school. They travel the world. And they get it. They’re good kids. They’re not perfect, but they’re nice. We wouldn’t have put them on television if they would have embarrassed us. Cortney: Well, I don’t know—our 4-year-olds… Seven is a lot more kids than most families in New York, and even America, have. Did you always know you wanted a big family? Cortney: We did. Robert: We thought there’d be four kids, right? Cortney: We didn’t have a number. We knew we wanted a lot of kids! You mentioned schools—do all your kids go to the same school? Cortney: The kids go to the same Catholic school in downtown Manhattan. But we’ve been to public and private. And regular preschool. There’s never a perfect school. You have to be creative, no matter what size your family is. You want to get a good education, you have to hustle. How do you handle each of your kids’ different needs and learning styles? Robert: Our kids are polar opposites. One day we got called to the principal’s office because one of our kids was bullying a kid. The same day our kid came home crying because he was being bullied by another kid. So we see everything with seven kids, and that’s fun. I think parents in our generation are a little different than my parents’ generation. Thirty years ago, parents raised three kids all kind of the same. Now parents know, Billy’s different than Joey. One kid you can push a little, one kid you’ve got to coddle. How would you describe each of your kids? Robert: Wolfgang is the oldest. When you say the name www.newyorkfamily.com
Robert and Cortney’s Design Tips Cool design and kids can co-exist. Learn to relax about the decor, and enjoy it rather than worrying about keeping it pristine. Everything, even beautifully designed items, are meant to be used. You don’t want your house to feel like a museum. Get rid of clutter. Your house will look bigger, there will be more room for everyone, including the kids, to move around, and by putting everything in its place, you’ll know where to find it next time you need it. Good taste has nothing to do with money. Find a style that fits your life
and what you like, and make it happen. If you don’t have a big budget, there are plenty of ways to change your environment in an affordable way. Try a new color of paint on the walls, frame the family photos and arrange them as an installation on a wall, repurpose a piece you already have but don’t like anymore, like an old piece of furniture that will look fabulous with a new coat of paint in a bright, shiny color!
ing room. Go with an open mind, and when you find the piece you love, go for it before somebody else does.
Flea markets are the best (and cheapest!) way to find a unique, distinctive object that can be the focal point for a well-designed and interest-
For more ideas, check out the Novogratzes’ book, “Downtown Chic: Designing Your Dream Home: From Wreck to Ravishing.”
Wolfgang, you would say “athlete,” wouldn’t you say? Cortney: Typical first kid. Robert: Bellamy is…what do you think? Cortney: Well, she’s my helper. Robert: Queen bee. Bellamy—queen bee. Cortney: Tallulah is very compassionate. Robert: Yeah, compassionate is the word. Breaker—creative. Five—cool. Holleder—wild. Major—an angel. And that’s it. Neither of you is originally from New York. What are your thoughts on raising a family in the city? Robert: We literally have two parks across the street.
at
The most important aspect of any home is that it is comfortable. It can look fantastic, but if it is not a relaxing environment, then it is useless. Try to find a balance so that it can be both stylish and have a chill vibe. You, your family and friends will appreciate that the most.
And Pier 40—all the sports fields are there. Five blocks that way, on a bike path, is Chelsea Piers. It’s become very kidfriendly. And that wasn’t true 10 years ago. Cortney: There’s been some really crucial moments of us wondering, “Are we going to leave Manhattan or not?” 9/11 for example, we had four small children. The economy this year has not been so good. Each time we do whatever it takes to try to stay here because we do love the city that much. We definitely feel blessed to live here and do something we love. Anyone, whether they’re in the middle of Manhattan or sitting in the middle of America, watching our show, will feel the energy that New York offers. v
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www.newyorkfamily.com
March 2010 | New York Family
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Real Estate SPRING
The Corner at 200 West
808 Columbus
WHERE TO From A Parkside Tower To A Waterfront Oasis, A Guide To The City’s Most Family-Friendly Luxury Buildings 48
New York Family | March 2010
More and more parents are choosing to raise their kids in the city, and it’s easy to see why. There’s no other place in the world where such an array of arts and culture, public parks and green spaces, top schools and diverse neighborhoods can be found right outside one’s front door. And just as families are investing in new homes here, developers are meeting the demand. Luxury apartments seem to be going up on every block, and many of them are catering to families. From onsite play spaces and entertainment lounges to butlers who will walk children to school, buildings are offering an abundance of amenities designed to meet the needs of today’s city families. If this new style of city living appeals to you, then enjoy the parade of new buildings on the following pages. One of them might just be the right fit for your family.
LIVE
UPPER WEST SIDE 808 COLUMBUS (808 Columbus Avenue) This rental building is one of five residential developments comprising Columbus Square, a new residential community located between 97th and 100th streets and Columbus and Amsterdam Avenues. “Our slogan is ‘rent your home, own your life,’” says Peter Rosenberg, director of development at Stellar Management, the building’s co-developer. The building also offers plenty of amenities to make family life convenient and enjoyable: Think two acres of elevated landscaped lawns, a children’s playroom, a residents’ lounge with private dining room and catering kitchen, a 70-foot mosaic tiled saltwater pool, a fitness center, a bicycle/stroller storage room, and valet parking.
THE CORNER AT 200 WEST (200 West 72nd Street) Located on the Southwest corner of 72nd Street and Broadway, The Corner at 200 West is a noteworthy addition to the luxury rental market. “It stands apart from other rental buildings because we’ve paid so much attention to every detail,” says Jeffrey Kaye, vice president of Gotham Developers, the building’s developer in a joint venture with Philips International and Rhodes NY. The 196 luxury 905 West End Avenue
The Visionaire
ground floor duplex with a 1,200-square foot garden, and a ninth-floor full floor apartment with a huge landscaped terrace. “This is a unique building with only large apartments and not many apartments—thus providing very high attention to owners’ needs,” says Lisa Lippman, senior vice president and director of Brown Harris Stevens.
905 WEST END AVENUE (905 West End Avenue) Situated one block from Riverside Park, this pre-war building features two- to four-bedroom units perfect for families. The interiors feature European elegance combined with modern design touches. The lobby offers a striking first impression, boasting a turn-of-the-century staircase accented by a stained-glass window. Residences have kitchens with granite countertops, white crackle mosaic tile backsplash, Tuscan Botticino floors, and bathrooms with Zuma bathtubs and Waterworks fixtures. Enjoying the boutique environment, the building comes complete with a roof deck for the owners, as well as bike storage, onsite resident managers, and a 24-hour doorman.
THE RUSHMORE (Riverside Boulevard at 64th Street)
homes include spacious two- and three-bedroom units, each with their own washer/dryer and gourmet kitchen, and in the three-bedrooms, recessed personal safes, custom powder rooms, and 36” Liebherr refrigerators. The ecofriendly property features Energy Star appliances, low-e perimeter glass, and plumbing features that promote water conservation. The Corner anticipates a LEED Silver rating. Families will enjoy the children’s playroom, and a 10,000square-foot landscaped roof terrace with fireplace, misting wall, sundeck, barbeque area and movie projection screen.
This building’s proximity to Riverside Park is a compelling draw for families. “Riverside South has the flavor of the Upper West Side with a tremendous sense of luxury and individuality, because it is on the waterfront and on the park,” not to mention near Lincoln Center and other great spots, says Donna Gargano, senior vice president of Extell, the building’s developer. The building also has a private sundeck and a private onsite screening room, which Gargano says is part of the Rushmore’s “entertainment suite.” You can work up a sweat in the La Palestra fitness center and 50-foot pool. Kidville NY runs the children’s playroom, 235 West 71st Street
235 WEST 71ST STREET (235 West 71st Street) This boutique building offers the best of both worlds: It’s small and intimate, yet features an abundance of services, including a full-time doorman, playroom, gym, storage room, bike room and live-in super. In addition to sprawling full floor apartments with six-plus bedrooms, enormous eat-in kitchens and two family rooms/libraries, there is a March 2010 | New York Family
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5th on the Park
The Brompton
and residents receive free membership and classes at Kidville’s main complex on Columbus Avenue.
UPPER EAST SIDE AZURE (333 East 91st Street) This 34-story luxury building features studio to five-bedroom apartments with expansive windows offering views of the East River and Manhattan. “Azure is at the vanguard of a new way of family living in Manhattan,” says Douglas MacLaury of the Mattone Group, one of the building’s joint developers along with The DeMatteis Organizations. “It’s a property that offers so much at such exceptional value.” Azure has studios, one-, two-, three-, four- and five-bedroom homes, including combination homes that allow families to customize their living space. Families will appreciate the building’s amenities, which include a residents’ lounge, a fitness center, a private dining room with catering kitchen, and a landscaped roof terrace. There’s a children’s playroom, as well as a teen game room equipped with video games, billiards and foosball. Construction is expected to be complete by early March.
THE BROMPTON (205 East 85th Street) Situated on the Upper East Side between Carl Schurz Park and Central Park, The Brompton is only a short walk to The Guggenheim or Metropolitan Museum of Art. The building’s gothic-inspired architecture is designed by Robert A.M. Stern Architects, LLP. The building consists of 164 studio and one- to four-bedroom apartments, and amenities include a cardio fitness room, direct access to an Equinox Fitness club and 24-hour concierge and doorman services. Families will enjoy the landscaped outdoor terrace and outdoor children’s play area, as well as an indoor children’s playroom.
GEORGICA (305 East 85th Street) Inspired by the Georgica Pond in East Hampton, this 20-story building offers 58 units. “Georgica’s furnished model residences showcase the luxury of space, the flexibility of floor plans and unlimited decorating potential,” noted Rob Kaliner, principal of Ascend Group LLC, developer of Georgica. “These homes highlight the versatility of the
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New York Family | March 2010
building, which suits many preferences and lifestyles.” Building amenities include a children’s playroom, landscaped roof deck with playground, a concierge service, a private fitness center and more.
MANHATTAN HOUSE (200 East 66th Street) This luxury building is full of inspired amenities, including fulltime doormen, concierge services, porte-cochere entrances, and a Roto Studio-designed children’s Georgica playroom. Another notable feature is the rooftop Manhattan Club, with panoramic skyline views, an expansive terrace, indoor library and lounge. Manhattan House offers spacious, light-filled apartments, many featuring expansive closets, fireplaces and private balconies. “This, complemented by its location in the heart of the Upper East Side just moments from prominent private and public schools, Central Park, restaurants and activities, is why many people including residents who grew up in the building, have chosen Manhattan House as the place to raise families of their own,” says Brian Fallon, partner of O’Connor Capital Partners and president of Manhattan House.
MIRAVAL LIVING (515 East 72nd Street) Designed by Miraval, known for its high-end resorts and spas, Miraval Living is a unique and luxurious addition to the Upper East Side. Perhaps its biggest draw for families is its close-knit community: The building features a children’s activity center with art and education classes, and a private park with lawn chairs and tables. There’s also a swimming pool, a basketball court, and a gym with an indoor and outdoor yoga studio and spa, among other features. “It’s one place in the city where you have the best of both worlds in perfect balance,” sums up Elaine Diratz, managing director at Corcoran Sunshine.
THE LAUREL (400 East 67th Street) This LEED-certified building offers homes ranging from studios to four-bedrooms. Apartments feature stunning panoramas of the city, solid white oak flooring, climate control capabilities and a large-capacity washer and dryer. The
Laurel also has bicycle and carriage storage, a 24-hour doorman and full-time concierge. Another feature is the Laurel Club, a two-story recreational space with a screening room, kitchen, conference center, children’s game room, toddler play area and multimedia computer room. The Laurel is located close to several parks, neighborhood markets and sidewalk bistros.
MIDTOWN WEST 505W37 (505 West 37th Street) Located in up-and-coming Hudson Yards, this rental building offers studio, one- and two-bedroom apartments. A total of 835 units are offered between the two towers. Each apartment includes floor-to-ceiling windows with views of the Statue of Liberty, Chrysler Building and Empire State Building. Apartments also include modern appliances, hardwood floors, and high ceilings. Families will love the spacious, open floor plans, 24-hour attended lobby, card-operated laundry, rooftop deck complete with kitchen and lounge area, and outdoor landscaped terrace and reflecting pool.
EMERALD GREEN (320 West 38th Street)
Manhattan House
BATTERY PARK CITY THE VISIONAIRE (70 Little West Street) The striking 35-story Visionaire condominium is a LEED Platinum-certified green building featuring natural materials, an advanced fresh air supply system, and sophisticated energy-saving technology. Residents enjoy a well-equipped fitness center and spa, landscaped roof gardens, a sky-lit indoor lap pool and a children’s playroom with a vibrant reef aquarium. The surrounding neighborhood is a residential enclave that has become the hub of sustainable living in New York City. One-third of the waterfront community is dedicated to open space, which is ideal for recreational activities. This fall, New York City’s first LEED-certified public school, PS 276M, will make a Emerald Green welcome and important addition to this family-friendly neighborhood.
FINANCIAL DISTRICT LIBERTY PLAZA (10 Liberty Street) This new construction offers 287 one-, two- and threebedroom apartments. Designed to facilitate comfortable living, each apartment features high ceilings, natural lighting and plenty of space. Amenities include a 24-hour doorman, fitness center with saunas and an exercise pool, a roof deck, a lounge with a kitchen, a laundry facility and a children’s playroom. Located in the increasingly familyfriendly Financial District, Liberty Plaza is situated on a block surrounded by Wall Street, Broadway and the East River.
Consisting of two 24-story towers and 568 apartments with spacious layouts and impressive city views, Emerald Green is a luxury rental building that lives up to its name. The building is designed to qualify for LEED certification, and features recycled-content construction materials, water-efficient plumbing, and a parking garage outfitted with electric car charging stations—among other features. “Enhancing the quality of life for not only our residents, but also future generations is a top priority,” says Gary Jacob, executive vice president of Glenwood, the building’s developer. There’s no shortage of onsite activities, either: Building amenities include a state-of-the-art fitness center and swimming pool, a circular stone whirlpool spa, a children’s playroom with hand-painted murals, and a screening room with theaterstyle seating.
SILVER TOWERS (620 West 42nd Street) Built by World Trade Center developer Larry Silverstein, this pair of 60-story glass towers comprise the largest rental development in New York City and feature 935 market-rate residences, ranging from studios to penthouses. An onsite park features a bronze playground sculpture designed by renowned artist Tom Otterness. “The public park at Silver Towers will be a magnificent oasis for the families of the Clinton District area,” says Lisa Silverstein, project developer for Silver Towers. “From the giant play sculpture and bocce ball court to the multiple options for gathering in beautiful outdoor settings, the development will further enhance the neighborhood for everyone.” The building also features a children’s playroom, indoor pool, concierge, dog run, state-of-the art fitness center, café and Wi-Fi Lounge, among other amenities. March 2010 | New York Family
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TRIBECA ARTISAN LOFTS (143 Reade Street)
Chelsea Enclave
CHELSEA 436 WEST 20TH STREET This historic Chelsea mansion has five unique apartments for rent, each measuring 1,800 square feet, ranging from 2 bedrooms/2 baths to 2 bedrooms/3 baths. They boast 14-foot to 17-foot ceilings, artfully restored finishes and have been upgraded with modern amenities like Bosch washers/dryers and stoves and wine coolers by Viking. Situated across from the picturesque Episcopal Seminary, the mansion sits on a quiet block and is monitored by DGA video security. Families will love the private outdoor gardens, wood-burning fireplaces, and the house butler, who will walk children Solaria to school. Apartments are available unfurnished or furnished with George Smith custom upholstery and imported pieces.
456 WEST 19TH STREET This newly constructed condominium was inspired by the artists’ studios of the early 20th century, and features amenities that will please design aficionados and families alike. Each spacious unit features 20-foot ceilings and a “mini-townhouse” feel, says Millie Perry of Stribling Marketing Associates. “The layouts are family style,” Perry says. “The living room, dining room, kitchen—everything is open.” Currently LEED-registered, the building is in the process of applying for Silver certification.
CHELSEA ENCLAVE (177 Ninth Avenue) Set amid the grounds of The General Theological Seminary, this luxury building overlooks The Close—a serene stretch of lawns, gardens and trees. “This is such a unique location in the city, I really don’t think there is any place like it,” says Dan Brodsky, managing partner with The Brodsky Organization, the building’s developer. The 53 residences at Chelsea Enclave include one-, two-, three-, and four-bedrooms and penthouses. A big draw for families is the onsite apple seeds, a popular children’s play space. There’s also a private roof lounge with a children’s play area and a sundeck with a built-in grill. Plus, a tennis court and day care center operated by the seminary are available to Chelsea Enclave residents.
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Magnificent views, streaming light and a family-friendly layout characterize these spacious lofts. “They’re very family-friendly lofts,” says Barrie Mandel, senior vice president at Corcoran Group. “They’re very generous, wide open kinds of spaces.” Each apartment’s interior combines a contemporary vision with respect for history—original board-cast ceilings are left exposed, grand cement columns lend strength and form to the space, and oil-rubbed walnut cabinets and kitchen blocks add touches of depth and character. Bathrooms display a gorgeous combination of polished concrete, Ipe wood, nickel, and marble, making for a luxurious, spa-like experience.
ROOSEVELT ISLAND RIVERWALK COURT (415 Main Street) This luxury waterfront condominium on Roosevelt Island offers the best of both worlds. “You get city living in a serene environment. It’s quiet. It’s safe. But you also have access to Manhattan within minutes,” says Kimberly Sherman Stamler, a vice president at Related, the building’s developer. The 18-story building has one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments featuring white oak flooring, floor-to-ceiling windows with city views, and contemporary kitchens. Building amenities include a children’s playroom, entertainment lounge with adjoining rooftop sundeck, fitness center and yoga studio, and rooftop cabanas. Roosevelt Island itself is 47 acres, two-thirds of which are devoted to public parks, promenades, and open spaces—including a soccer field right outside the building.
RIVERDALE SOLARIA (640 West 237th Street) This Riverdale condominium building offers generously sized one-, two-, three- and four-bedroom homes, and its amenities include an indoor playroom designed by Pottery Barn Kids and a stargazing deck with a Meade celestial telescope. The residents’ lounge has a home theater system, Nintendo Wii, cozy seating and a kitchen and dining area. The Solaria is situated in the one of the city’s premiere residential communities—from the legendary Wave Hill gardens and art gallery to the hiking and jogging trails, Riverdale offers much to those who appreciate nature. Local shopping and dining, cultural institutions and excellent private and public schools complement the neighborhood.
HARLEM 5TH ON THE PARK (Fifth Avenue and 120th Street) Families can find plenty to love about 5th On The Park, a high-rise located in thriving Central Harlem. The building contains a community room that doubles as a playroom,
BUILDING DIRECTORY
Riverwalk Court
two common outdoor terraces (including one equipped with grills), and a 55-foot lap pool. “For most of our buyers with families, the indoor heated swimming pool and kids playroom will be big factors,” said Carole Griffin, Director of Sales. “They also like the fact that they can get the space of an actual home while having all the amenities that you can only get in a luxury condominium.” The building’s 160 units boast top-of-the-line appliances, including full-size washers and dryers, and afford residents some stellar views of the city.
BROOKLYN 184 KENT (184 Kent Avenue) This former warehouse on Williamsburg’s waterfront will let families soak up the splendor of their surroundings. “184 Kent features ample outdoor space including a fully landscaped, 19,000 square foot interior courtyard for the private use of residents,” says Jason Halpern, managing partner at JMH Development. “There’s also a fenced rooftop sundeck with sweeping views, a barbeque area and outdoor showers.” Residences range from studio to threebedrooms and are pet-friendly, and the building features a 24-hour doorman and concierge, on-site valet parking, lobby lounge, kids’ playroom and fitness center.
ONE BROOKLYN BRIDGE PARK (360 Furman Street) This 14-story, 438-unit building, housing everything from spacious loft apartments to townhouses to penthouses, overlooks the East River and is situated within Brooklyn Bridge Park. “Lovely Brooklyn Heights is already well known for being a great family neighborhood,” says Highlyann Krasnow, executive vice president at The Developers Group. Amenities include a large children’s playroom, a music room, an art room, and a large roof terrace. There also are 550 parking spaces available for sale or lease. One Brooklyn Bridge Park
184 Kent 184 Kent Avenue, Brooklyn; 888-736-8904 rentonkent.com The Corner at 200 West 200 West 72nd Street; 212-721-1200 200west72.com 235 West 71st Street 235 West 71st Street;212-588-5606 235w71.com 436 West 20th Street 436 West 20th Street; 212-334-4855 436west20th.com 456 West 19th Street 456 West 19th Street; 212-255-3456 456w19.com 5th On The Park 5th Avenue at 120th Street; 877-348-8233 5thonthepark.com 505W37 505 West 37th Street; 877-505-3737 505w37.com 808 Columbus 808 Columbus Avenue; 866-644-8813 columbussq.com 905 West End Avenue 905 West End Avenue; 212-486-4905 905wea.com Artisan Lofts 143 Reade Street; 212-732-4000 artisanlofts.com The Brompton 205 East 85th Street; 212-249-8505 thebromptonnyc.com Chelsea Enclave 177 Ninth Avenue; 212-647-0077 chelseaenclave.com Georgica 305 East 85th Street; 212-988-8511 GeorgicaLife.com Emerald Green 320 West 38th Street; 212-695-3838 glenwoodnyc.com
The Laurel 400 East 67th Street; 212-750-5550 laurelcondominium.com Liberty Plaza 10 Liberty Street; 212-430-5900 glenwoodnyc.com Manhattan House 200 East 66th Street; 877-394-6492 manhattanhouse.com Miraval Living 515 East 72nd Street, 1-877-932-5862 515e72.com One Brooklyn Bridge Park 360 Furman Street, Brooklyn; 718-330-0030 onebrooklyn.com The Azure 333 East 91st Street; 212-828-4848 azureny.com The Edge Williamsburg Waterfront, Brooklyn; 718-222-0211 williamsburgedge.com The Mercury Lofts at the Beacon 4 Beacon Way, Jersey City; 201-7163000 thebeaconjc.com Riverwalk Court 415 Main Street; 212-754-0455 riverwalknyc.com The Rushmore Riverside Boulevard at 64th Street; 212-496-1400 therushmoreriverside.com Silver Towers 620 West 42nd Street; 212-473-4242 silvertowers.com Solaria 640 West 237th Street; 718-884-0770 solariariverdale.com The Visionaire 55 Battery Place; 212-425-2550 thevisionaire.com
THE EDGE (Williamsburg Waterfront) Bordered by the East River and East River State Park and just steps away from shopping and dining, The Edge is part of a revitalization of the waterfront area in northern Williamsburg. It’s home to two residential buildings containing 565 condominiums, 60,000 square feet of retail space, below-grade parking, and approximately 1.75 acres of open space slated to include a public park, promenade, and a water taxi landing. Residents can luxuriate in an indoor open-air pool, yoga studio, theatre screening rooms, and children’s playroom. “For busy families, having a full-service building creates a very safe harbor,” says Jeffrey Levine, head of Douglaston Development, the building’s developer.
NEW JERSEY THE MERCURY LOFTS AT THE BEACON (4 Beacon Way, Jersey City) This historic art deco building offers spectacular views of the Manhattan skyline and surrounding cityscape. The building’s half- and full-floor lofts feature 13-foot ceilings, gourmet kitchens and 3,000-6,000 square feet of space. “The size of the residences in the Mercury is particularly appealing,” says George Filopoulos, developer of The Beacon and president of Metrovest Equities, Inc. “What was originally designed for 104 families will now be home to only 25.” What makes this building especially family-friendly is Be Kids at the Beacon, a 66,000 square foot children’s destination that will include an early childhood education center, gymnastics and sports camps, a restaurant and much more. v March 2010 | New York Family
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Real Estate SPRING
n this economic climate, the question of whether to buy or rent remains more perplexing than ever. We talked to local real estate experts to find out what families should think about when deciding whether to continue to rent or take the plunge and invest in a place of their own. First, consider how long you expect to stay in the city. “It’s been a rule of thumb in Manhattan that if you are not staying for more then five years, you might not want to buy,” says Steve Maschi, vice president at Glenwood Management. “Buying is a much more complex decision that requires an emotional, a psychological and a financial commitment.” Another advantage to renting is that a growing family can upgrade their apartment relatively quickly, “so there’s a flexibility with renting that you don’t have if you buy,” Maschi adds. Families who aren’t sure which neighborhood might be the best fit can gain insight and experience by renting, says Michael Kaye, CEO of Douglaston Development: “One advantage of renting is the opportunity to experiment with various places, so you can be sure where you want to settle with your family.” On the other hand, if you’re committed to staying in New York, now might be the time to buy. “If you’re renting, be aware that, over time, if you plan to buy and use financing, a two million dollar place today might be 2.5 million if interest rates go up,” says Deanna Kory, senior vice president at The Corcoran Group. “Also, the mortgage climate is a bit better for people that are buying than it was earlier this year—the banks have loosened up to a degree.” In recent years, there has been a rise in families choosing to stay in the city long-term. Kelly Kennedy Mack, president at Corcoran Sunshine Marketing Group, expects the trend to continue. “It’s safer, cleaner, and city buyers can now get more space for the money, which perhaps was the reason
I
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The Fairchild
The Great
Debate Trying To Decide Whether To Buy Or Rent? Local Real Estate Experts Offer Timely Advice For Families BY JEAN HALLORAN-MONACO
buyers were choosing to leave for the suburbs in the first place,” Mack says. The good news for buyers and renters is that both markets are faring better than they have been recently, says Jonathan Miller, president and CEO of Miller Samuel, a real estate appraisal firm. “Whether you’re renting or buying, the change in condition from two years ago is much more favorable for a family looking for a place simply because rents and housing prices are lower,” Miller says. And although there’s no crystal ball, many experts believe prices have leveled off. “I think there will be flat to modest increases [in 2010], but basically flat,” Kaye says. “The rental and sale prices have fallen pretty much as far as they are going to fall.” Families looking for great value are encouraged to look in emerging neighborhoods. Kaye suggests looking at West Chelsea, Washington Heights and Williamsburg in Brooklyn. Susan de Franca, president of Related Sales,
says more and more families are choosing to call Roosevelt Island home. “Roosevelt Island draws people because it is five minutes from Midtown, but the price point is anywhere between 30 percent to 40 percent less, and the amenities and views are amazing,” she says. Families who decide to buy should take advantage of the resources available to them. Mack recommends working with a knowledgeable real estate agent, especially in this climate. “There’s a level of negotiability that has never really been there before—as a result there’s no substitute for working with a real estate professional to help guide you through the process. Websites like StreetEasy.com and PropertyShark.com are good resources, but they just offer data, and there’s a lot of other relevant information,” Mack says. “In the same way, you want to work with the right mortgage broker. There’s absolutely financing available out there, but it’s about finding the right person to help you.” G
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Real Estate SPRING
Going Green Looking To Move To An Eco-Friendly Building? Here Are A Few Things To Look For BY MOLLY O’MEARA SHEEHAN
rom luxury high-rises in Battery Park City to affordable housing in the Bronx, you can now find homes of all types labeled “green.” But as a potential resident, how do you tell how ecofriendly a building really is and the impact it will have on your family’s day-to-day life? One way is to see if it’s certified by the U.S. Green Building Council for Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED). Since 2004, when The Solaire in Battery Park City became the first LEED-certified apartment tower in the country, at least 25 residential buildings in New York City have received LEED certification. “Green building has become the next generation of high quality building,” says Russell Albanese, president of the Albanese Organization, The Solaire’s developer. LEED measures a building’s sustainability in six areas: proximity to public transportation and other factors linked to location, energy savings
Eco-Buildings Just a few green buildings of note in the city. 93 Nevins, 93 Nevins Street, 917-605-0909, 93nevinstownhomes.com Millennium Tower Residences, 30 West Street, 212-595-7777, millennium-tower-residences.com The Solaire, 20 River Terrace, 212-748-6100, thesolaire.com The Verdesian, 211 North End Avenue, 212-227-0222, verdesian.com The Visionaire, 70 Little West Street, 212-425-2550, thevisionaire.com
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93 Nevins
and CO2 emissions reduction, water efficiency, indoor environmental quality, design innovation, and stewardship of resources and sensitivity to their impacts. A building can earn up to 100 points, and must meet a minimum number to be certified. And while some buildings are merely certified, others achieve silver, gold, or platinum status. But while LEED has raised awareness of green buildings, just because a building isn’t LEED-certified doesn’t mean it’s not eco-friendly. A few builders who embrace green design don’t want to spend time and money to get a LEED certificate. And just as you can have a non-LEED green building, you can have a not so green LEED building: you don’t always know what a building’s point score represents (a classic example: putting in a bike rack counts the same as installing solar panels). Last year, the U.S. Green Building Council adjusted its process, so that buildings awarded LEED status in the future must periodically document their water and energy use. Residents can look for other key factors that indicate how eco-friendly a building is. One is air quality. Many building materials, paints, floor coverings, and furnishings release volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Green buildings start with less toxic construction materials and low- or noVOC paints, and may also filter and humidify the air. Sara Clasen moved to The Verdesian, another green building developed by the Albanese Organiza-
tion, when her sons were infants and immediately felt the difference. “The boys had a lot of trouble just breathing in our old apartment,” she says. A green building also makes optimal use of the sun to help heat rooms in winter. “All the things that people used to do hundreds of years ago because they made sense, still make sense,” says Emily Fisher, co-owner of R&E Brooklyn, which recently developed 93 Nevins, two high-end green townhouses in Boerum Hill, Brooklyn. Thoughtful placement of windows, she says, is one such practice. At 93 Nevins, trees and grape vines on patios, terraces, and the rooftop also help create natural window shades that reduce air conditioning needs in the summer. How much energy a building uses is a crucial measure of how green it is. Architect Chris Benedict says the 4 BTU/sq ft/heating degree per day her New York City apartment buildings use is likely a quarter of the level of most new construction, and she aims to reduce it by a third more in an apartment building slated to break ground in Brooklyn in June. This level of efficiency, she says, means you can basically “use a hairdryer to heat the apartment.” But the best way to learn more about a building is to visit it. GreenHomeNYC, a volunteer-run group, leads tours of green buildings throughout the city—the next one is May 8. For more information, visit greenhomenyc.org. G
Real Estate SPRING
House
Rules How To Design A Family-Friendly Apartment That Doesn’t Sacrifice On Style
an you have a home you love that suits your tastes and style while also accommodating your children and all their toys, gear, and messes? We think so, with a little thoughtful planning and care. To get you started, here are a few ideas from some design experts. Design A Kid-Friendly Kitchen In many households, the kitchen is the center of activity—making it even more essential that the room be family-friendly. Robert Dobbs, a certified kitchen and bathroom designer with Elgot, a design company based in Manhattan, says families looking to remodel their kitchen may want to consider “U-shaped kitchens, [because they] work well to keep kids on the opposite side of the island [and away from the cooking area].” Also, Dobbs says to be sure to “leave [ample] space
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between open oven or dishwasher doors and cabinets,” as this helps enable safe passageway through the kitchen. When it comes to flooring, solid wood or laminate floors are both resilient surfaces that make for easy clean-up, while cork is another good option because it makes standing for long periods of time easier on your feet—and on a baby’s crawling hands and knees. For people with small kitchens, Dobbs says internal storage options like pull-out pantries really maximize space.
Choose Sensible Carpeting When choosing a carpet for your living room, comfort, maintenance, and aesthetics are all important factors that come into play. “From a health standpoint, wool, cotton, and silk are natural fiber options that are free of any harsh chemicals,” explains Angela Gruszka of ABC Carpet & Home. She recommends these rugs to families with young children or babies, and wool or sheepskin rugs to families with children a bit older, as these rugs are “extremely durable and easily cleanable.” Steven Forrey, sales manager at The Rug Company, agrees, favoring Tibetan wool rugs—particularly for families that are seeking minimal upkeep and maximum décor. Boasting incredibly high-quality wool, these rugs are stain resistant, durable,
DIY Home Design Workshops If you’d like to tackle your own home makeover projects but never learned how to install a light fixture or tear up flooring, the New York City College of Technology’s Division of Continuing Education is offering do-it-yourself home renovation workshops in March. Each workshop costs $50 and covers a different topic, from installing ceramic tile for floors to everyday electricity you can do yourself. Details: Wednesdays, 6:30 p.m.-9:30 p.m. 25 Chapel Street, Howard Building, Room 106. Call 718-552-1170 to register.
and natural. As a final precaution, go barefoot in carpeted areas. Leaving your shoes at the door will ultimately shorten your housecleaning by a considerable amount, saving you time and money when it comes to maintaining the space. Pick Out The Right Couch Above all, invest in durable seating. “A coffee table from Ikea is just as good as a table from any other place,” says Debbie Wiener, author of “Slob Proof! Real-Life Home Decorating Solutions.” “But you can always tell a bad sofa from a good one.” When shopping for a sofa, make sure it has a strong frame, a cushion with down and a thick fabric. “We almost always recommend slipcovered sofas,” offers Leigh Oshirak, director of marketing and public relations at Pottery Barn and a mother of two. Next time your child spills pasta sauce or apple juice, she suggests a simple way to cut down on cleaning time—and the bill: Simply unzip the slipcover and throw it into the washing machine. Jonathan Balthaser, manager of Rico, a Brooklyn-based furniture store, suggests an alternative. “Whenever parents come to our store, we always recommend leather or Ultrasuede as the upholstery,” he says. These materials boast durability and are easy to clean. Rest assured that any child-inflicted stains should not leave permanent damage. Have A Thoughtfully Lit Home Kimberly Oliver of Design Within Reach cautions parents to avoid floor lighting or unsteady table lamps that can be knocked over. Instead, select pieces with a heavy base that will remain in place. Or, says author Wiener, swap floor and table lamps for overhead lighting, which prevents broken lamps and stained shades, and gives your family more room to play. If you’re showcasing family pictures, track lighting is a great option, according to Fred Katz, owner of Lightforms Inc., because the lights spotlight select areas on the wall. Another fixture to consider is an immediate over-the-shoulder light for reading. This works well in situations where one of the kids wants to watch TV, but another
The Hot List Great Resources To Help Outfit Your Home ABC Carpet & Home. This home emporium featuring distinctive goods from around the world has a variety of furnishings, from lighting fixtures to living and bedroom furniture. There is also a unique children’s area with beautiful wood furniture, organic bedding, and accessories. 888 Broadway, 212-473-3000, abchome.com. Architects & Designers Building. Head here for the latest in kitchen and bath home building products, plus wood flooring, carpeting, lighting, furniture, and more. Check out its 35 showrooms. The on-site personnel can also field your home-remodeling questions. 150 East 58th Street, 212-644-2766, adbuilding.com. California Closets. This national company provides you with a personalized consultation detailing how you can maximize the space in your home—including bedrooms, children’s rooms, offices and even wall beds—and then installs the final product. Visit the showroom in TriBeCa. 26 Varick Street, 646-486-3905, californiaclosets.com. Kastel Kitchen Gallery. This full renovation company exclusively carries cottonwood fine kitchen furniture cabinetry and custom designs all their work. While their main focus is kitchens they will also design libraries, bedrooms, bathrooms and other rooms. 17 East 37th Street, 212-252-0900. Design Within Reach. Offers contemporary furnishings for the home, including the living room, dining room, bedroom, and office. Lighting, rugs, and other accessories are also sold. Various locations in Manhattan, dwr.com. Elgot. For more than 60 years, these kitchen and bath specialists have crafted spaces exclusively for New York homes. They have extensive knowledge of Manhattan building codes and laws. Their work is supervised by the designer at all times and they install everything—from the major fixtures to the smallest pipes. 937 Lexington Avenue, 212879-1200, elgotkitchens.com. Giggle. This boutique offers up a large selection of fabulous, trendy furniture for the nursery, bedroom, and playroom, from cribs to dressers to gliders. Various locations in Manhattan, giggle.com. Godwin. This contracting firm specializes in re-designing luxury homes in Manhattan. The company requests bids from multiple subcontractors and vendors to ensure that you receive the lowest price. Its specialties include fine cabinetry and custom fabricating. 215 East 58th Street, 212-308-0558, godwin-inc.com. Franklin Report. Described as “The Insider’s Guide To Home Services,” this company specializes in keeping tabs on local home services to ensure that you find the best match. Its website lists reviews and portfolios of everything from custom furniture finishing and antique dealers to movers and electricians. franklinreport.com. Lightforms Inc. From simple bedside lamps to complex low voltage illumination systems, this store has all your lighting needs. It also offers in-home lighting consultations. Various locations in Manhattan, 212-255-3635, lightformsinc.com. Pottery Barn. Along with dining room, living room, kitchen, and bedroom furniture, you’ll find a beautiful assortment of children’s furnishings, from cribs to changing tables to child-size tables and chairs. Various locations in Manhattan, 888-779-5176, potterybarn.com. Restoration Hardware. Its new children’s department offers up furnishings for the bedroom, nursery, and playroom. You’ll also find lighting, rugs, and linens. 935 Broadway, 212-260-9479, restorationhardware.com. The Rug Company. Carries handmade rugs that are original and distinctive. You’ll find modern and traditional options. Rugs are designed by expert craftsmen and meant to be family heirlooms. 88 Wooster Street, 212-274-0444, therugcompany.info. Tecny Group Inc. This design firm offers clients expertise in every step of the building process, from initial plans to the final installation of furniture and equipment. Its team works with you to find a design that best suits your family’s needs and sees it through to completion. 115 West 29th Street, 212-697-4040, tecnygroup.com. —Teresa Tobat
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Tips For A Clutter-Free Living Space Keeping your home—and in particular, your living room— organized when you have kids may seem like a never-ending task, but there are ways to keep the clutter at bay. Love It Or Lose It: Beyond the practical idea of using baskets and boxes, organizing superstars Barbara Hemphill and Maggie Bedrosian suggest adopting the mantra, “Love it or lose it.” Look at everything cluttering your space and ask: “Is it useful? Is it beautiful? Do you love it?” If not, get rid of it. You’ll be surprised to see what you can live without, and just how much you were living with. Kiddie Clutter: The same approach applies to kids’ toys. Organizational expert Ann Sullivan recommends organizing toys into categories, such as games, dolls, and cars. Then, decide what’s never used, what’s simply broken, and what your kids have long outgrown. Whatever toys you don’t keep, consider donating to charity. Get Stackin’: To organize toys, Sullivan recommends using clear, stackable pull-out drawers that are available in multiple colors. Label each one according to what’s inside or, if your child can’t read yet, take a picture of the contents and stick it to the container.
Good night dirt. Good night bacteria hiding there. Good night germs everywhere. Is your baby’s pacifier or bottle really free of germs? You’ll know for certain with a Miele dishwasher. Its SaniWash cycle with patented Vario™ temperature control technology ensures water stays hot enough to completely sanitize your family’s dishware. Providing a cleaning performance that’s guaranteed1… so your story has its happily ever after. See miele.com for complete details.
1
Manhattan’s Premier Kitchen & Bath Designers
Visit our showroom at 937 Lexington Ave., NY (bet 68th & 69th St.) 212.879.1200 www.elgotkitchens.com
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Swing Low: For a truly out-of-the-ordinary storage solution, Sullivan says to try a hammock—they’re great for keeping items like stuffed animals visible, yet out of the way. Get The Kids On Board: Getting kids involved with storage solutions helps, too. Even if it’s just plastering stickers onto the front of a bin—the more fun something is to use, the more likely they’ll be able to use it! —Jordana Jaffe Jordana Jaffe is the founder of live ORGANIZED, a professional organizing firm based in New York City. She loves helping parents minimize clutter and maximize space. To contact her, visit liveorganized.com.
prefers to read a book. The overhead light won’t illuminate the entire room, allowing your kids to stay engaged in the program—and on good terms with each other. Invest In Furniture That Grows With Your Child When Danielle Hansmeyer, SVP of Restoration Hardware Baby & Child, was pregnant and looking to buy furniture for her nursery, she found that there was a “void in the market for good quality, sophisticated design at a reasonable price.” She returned from maternity leave with a slew of ideas, creating the store’s Baby & Child line, which recently launched. It features an assortment of convertible cribs, elegant bedding, bathroom accessories and more that Hansmeyer says are “subtle, but fun” and “seamless with the rest of your home.” Check out the cribs that convert into a toddler bed and “big kid bed,” and changing tables that transform into dressers in styles “that are pretty timeless.” As Hansmeyer notes, “Being able to buy something that will live with your child for 10 years” is worth the investment. G —Reported by Kristen Duca, Jordana Jaffe, Darcy Newell, and Kate Willard
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BROKERS IN
THE
SPOTLIGHT
Q&A www.newyorkfamily.com
WITH THREE OF THE INDUSTRY’S LEADERS
March 2010 | New York Family
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Special Promotional Section
BROKERS IN THE SPOTLIGHT
Q&A
What makes a top broker? Firstly, understanding the marketplace. Second, extensive knowledge of every building and every block. Third, and most important, experience. How do you distinguish yourself? For my clients who are sellers, I have a talent for knowing how best to market and price an apartment so that they can quickly get the best possible price, without months and months of lowball offers followed by a dramatic markdown to see a sale. For my clients who are buyers, I listen to what they have to say and quickly get an understanding of their particular style and taste: what they like and what they don’t. I don’t waste their time and only show apartments they will like and can afford. When board packages are required, my substantial experience helps make sure they are approved. What makes an “A-list” property unique? Location, condition, scarcity. What’s the most exciting part of your job? What keeps you going everyday? The relationships I develop with my clients and the satisfaction in helping them get everything they want. It’s flattering to count a substantial number of my clients as repeat and referral business.
SHARON DOLCH
VICE PRESIDENT, PRUDENTIAL DOUGLAS ELLIMAN Sharon Dolch is one of New York City’s top residential brokers. A specialist in high-end properties, with both local and international client base, Sharon sells apartments in some of New York’s most exclusive buildings. She has lived on the Upper East Side for over 20 years and boasts over 25 years of experience at top brokerage firms throughout Manhattan. Sharon, whose children and grandchildren all live within close proximity, understands the unique needs of NYC families. She knows the ins and outs of the city’s schools—including private, charter and public schools—and can provide great insight into the important elements that create a family-friendly building and neighborhood.
917-952-7821 SDOLCH@ELLIMAN.COM 62
New York Family | March 2010
If a family comes to you looking for something new and different to buy, what might you recommend? It depends on the family. Some I might direct to something loft-like so they could consider creating a “great room,” like in the suburbs. Some I’d encourage to look at up-and-coming neighborhoods that boast a lot of children, parks and playgrounds. Some I’d direct downtown, where you find a lot of LEED-certified buildings that have more green spaces, gardens and sustainable features—which are also ideal for certain families. What are some of the most important tips you’d offer families looking to buy a home in the city? Look for a quiet apartment—not facing an avenue or major cross street, not facing a street in which traffic must go uphill (trucks and buses are much noisier going uphill) and not overlooking any HVAC equipment on the roof of a neighboring building. The ideal family apartment would also not be near the elevators—at the end of the hallway is preferable. It should also have an open kitchen/dining room/living room. Other things to look for is whether parking is accessible from the building, making sure there are no extra stairs to negotiate and that it’s easy to get into the lobby (with strollers, etc.), whether there are other children in the building and if there’s a playroom for when there’s inclement weather. www.newyorkfamily.com
Special Promotional Section
BROKERS IN THE SPOTLIGHT What makes a great broker? There are many characteristics that make a broker great. The absolute top on my list is the quality of service and attention a broker gives to each and every client. A great broker truly listens to his/her clients and develops a deep understanding of their needs. Their goal is the clients’ goal: to help them buy the residence that they want or sell their current residence at the highest possible price— accomplished in the most seamless manner. Another important quality of a top broker is the ability to adjust to ever-changing market conditions.
Q&A
How do you distinguish yourself? I truly care about the goals and needs of my buyers and sellers. It is very important and satisfying to me that they ultimately achieve those goals. It is encouraging to know that my clients come back to me time and again because I earn their trust doing the right thing on their behalf. What’s the most exciting part of your job? It still is very exciting for me to take out new buyers who want to learn the New York real estate market and help them make the best possible choice. I also really enjoy working with sellers by using the finest marketing tools to achieve optimum sales prices. What are you most proud of in your professional career? I am very proud of my reputation within the brokerage community as being an ethical, kind and professional broker. I have often been told by other brokers that they look up to me as a role model in the field. I am very proud of that as I have worked hard to live up to high standards. If a family comes to you and is looking for something new and different to buy, what might you recommend to them? My first recommendation is to tell them to decide what their basic needs are including price point, space, bedroom count, location, amenities and building services. Once those criteria are established, we begin the process of looking at properties. I watch their emotional reaction very carefully and help them understand what triggers their positive response. This helps us zero in on what will work for them. What are some of the most important tips you’d offer families looking to buy a home in the city? Determine what is most important to you. Is it bedroom count? Is it abundant natural light? Is it proximity to work or schools? Neighborhood conveniences? Transportation access? Prioritize your wish list and think about your lifestyle and how living in a particular apartment will impact your life in a positive way.
www.newyorkfamily.com
DEANNA KORY SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT THE CORCORAN GROUP
Deanna Kory is one of New York City’s most powerful women in real estate today. With nearly 25 years of experience and an unwavering determination to assist her clients in realizing their real estate goals, she has established a reputation in the industry for her expert market knowledge, superior negotiation skills, cutting-edge marketing, and warm personality. Along with her team, Deanna has sold well over $1 billion of residential real estate in Manhattan, and she consistently ranks among the top three brokers at Corcoran in sales volume year after year.
660 MADISON AVENUE DEK@CORCORAN.COM 212-937-7011 March 2010 | New York Family
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Special Promotional Section
BROKERS IN THE SPOTLIGHT
Q&A
What makes a great broker? A great broker is someone whose honesty, integrity and commitment to a project drives him or her to look beyond the “deal.” Great brokers help educate buyers and sellers about the process; they are good listeners with a strong understanding of their clients’ needs. In today’s market, the art of negotiation is a defining characteristic and a necessity for top brokers. How do you distinguish yourself? I am truly committed to educating buyers, rather than selling them on a particular deal. My focus has always been finding the right home and the right deal for an individual, rather than just completing a sale. With more than 30 new developments and conversions under my belt, I also believe that my experience with construction and understanding of a building’s physical, financial, and legal structure distinguishes me within the industry. What is the most exciting part of your job? What keeps you going every day? After 20 years in the business, my team of five has evolved to operate as a well-oiled machine. I always find it exciting and fulfilling to put the pieces of a puzzle together when matching individuals to the right home. I believe that my own home is the nucleus of my family—it’s where my life is built. To be a part of that process, in helping other families find the right home, gives me and my team an enormous sense of fulfillment.
LOUISE PHILLIPS FORBES EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT, HALSTEAD PROPERTY, LLC For more than 20 years, Louise Phillips Forbes has been a leader in Manhattan’s residential real estate market, developing a significant following among homebuyers and sellers of luxury condos, co-ops and townhouses. Louise is proud of the relationships she builds with her clients and often works with owners of individual apartments for years, helping them grow and meet the changing needs of family and location, while providing invaluable advice on how to maximize the return on their investment.
212-381-3329 LPHILLIPS@HALSTEAD.COM 64
New York Family | March 2010
What are you most proud of in your professional career? Real estate is my third career, after previously working with handicapped children and as dancer in musical theater. I’m proud of being a leader in the industry for two decades, and I appreciate the amount of repeat business we enjoy. I’m also proud of balancing a level of professional success with the blessing of being a mother of two children and having a wonderfully supportive husband. If a family comes to you looking for something new and different to buy, what might you recommend to them? My philosophy of educating, and not just selling, holds true here. Every family is different, and it’s my job to get to know them, to understand what kinds of properties or which neighborhoods might be new or different to them or the right fit. What are some of the most important tips you’d offer families looking to buy a home in the city? Find a broker you trust and who listens to your feedback. Have faith in the process, be patient, and trust your gut. Your home is where your life is built. Take time in educating yourself before making this kind of decision. www.newyorkfamily.com
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Spring Getaways Still Haven’t Booked A Vacation? Consider These 5 Great Family Destinations BY LANCHI VENATOR
re you the “fly by the seat of your pants” kind of vacation planner? Or maybe you just like to surprise your family (and yourself) with last-minute options. If you have “plan family spring break vacation” on your checklist but haven’t crossed it off yet, here are few getaways to consider. Have A Soaking Wet Adventure You don’t have to know how to swim or even be big enough to swim to enjoy Great Wolf Lodge, an indoor water park in the Poconos 90 minutes from NYC. This vacation spot offers fun-filled activities for all ages, from toddlers to adults. For the smaller set, check out organized activities such as 10-minute shows, story time and “cub sized” pools. Bigger kids will love the thrilling water slides that await them, such as the “River Canyon Run” or the “New Double Barrel” replete with a six-story drop. Given that attractions are indoors, no spring shower will spoil the soaking good time. (greatwolf.com/poconos) Kick Back On The Ranch Rocking Horse Ranch Resort is both close (90 minutes from NYC) and accessible (reachable by Metro North, Amtrak, bus, boat, plane or car). This all-inclusive vacation spot not only offers year-round horseback riding for all ages but also winter sports like skiing, ice skating and sleigh rides. With a private lake and indoor water parks, your family’s swimmers and sailors will find plenty to keep them occupied. Don’t worry if you are not an expert in these activities—lessons are available for everything! And if you want to rest your boots, there are magicians, circus acts, musical revues, and of course a Wild West Show to entertain you. (rockinghorseranch.com) Take A Vacation With Character Head to the Nickelodeon family suites in Orlando Florida, which is one big, fun park for all. It includes a “Lagoon Pool” equipped with a four-story twisty slide, a “Slide
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Nickelodeon Hotel Tower” complete with climbing nets and water jets, basketball courts, a kids’ play area and mini golf. There’s even a “4D Experience” arena, where you can “feel the wind, water, bubbles and slime transport you to a multidimensional high-tech adventure.” While the tweens are at the arcade or getting pampered at the spa, mom and dad can relax by the pool or sneak a run down the slide. Don’t forget to book a breakfast with your favorite characters at Nicktoons Café! (nickhotel.com) Enjoy A Romantic Family Getaway The Veranda Resort in Turks and Caicos is a luxurious beachfront playground prepared to cater to your family’s every whim. Parents and kids can relax on the beach, swim in one of three pools (including one just for children), or partake in the various beach-related activities, such as snorkeling, horseback riding, water and jet skiing. Or mom and dad can book some spa or alone time while kids from 3 to 12 can join the Kids Club for supervised educational fun. Teens can participate in “extreme excursions,” such as scuba diving and parasailing. This resort is a perfect blend of family fun and romantic moments. (verandatci.com) Hit The Slopes Out West Colorado has always been a hotspot for skiing vacations, and now families have an even bigger incentive to head there. Snowmass Mountain, just 10 miles away from Aspen, boasts a newly developed family-friendly base village featuring condos, restaurants, shops, and more. The mountain itself is ideal for skiers of all skill levels and ages, and when the kids get enough of the snow, they can head to the Treehouse, a 25,000-square-foot children’s center with nature-themed rooms, a daycare and fun activities. (aspensnowmass.com) G www.newyorkfamily.com
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piggyBANK The Current Economy Has Many Parents Worrying About Money. Here’s Expert Advice On Everything From College Savings Plans To Everyday Budgeting
Financing
A Family
ith more families than ever feeling overwhelmed about their finances, we thought it would be a good time to check in with some financial planners and experts for advice on key issues parents are concerned about. The good news is that it’s never too late to start getting your money matters in order.
W
CREATING A BUDGET When creating a family budget, think of it as a step toward financial freedom rather than a burden. “Take a positive look at your life and the things around you and say, ‘These are all of the things that are really important to me; I can use this opportunity to get rid of the things that aren’t that important,” says Greg Braca, president of TD Bank’s metro New York branch. The first step is to take a look at your expenses: Assemble paycheck stubs, at least two months’ worth of bank statements, and two months of credit card payments. Judy Lawrence, personal finance counselor and
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New York Family | March 2010
author, suggests both parents work together. “You start to see that the kids’ school costs this, the pets cost that—and suddenly it’s not about ‘You spend this’ and ‘I spend that,’” she says. “It’s about, ‘Wow, our lifestyle costs a lot; what can we do as a team to make some adjustments?’” Lawrence recommends organizing expenses into four categories: fixed expenses (anything you pay on a monthly basis, i.e. rent); fixed variable expenses (monthly expenses that vary—i.e. grocery bills); discretionary expenses (i.e. a new cosmetics product, a Starbucks run); and non-recurring expenses (i.e. vacation). When it comes to saving, “You don’t wait until the end of the month to see if you have any money left,” says Lawrence. Instead, put a certain amount of money into savings each month, and consider this a fixed expense—a good rule of thumb is to save at least 10 percent of your income. Make it a goal to store up what Lawrence calls “real emergency mon-
ey”— enough to cover 6-8 months of expenses. Focus on the present, work on steadily erasing any debt, and be realistic. “If the budget doesn’t allow for college savings, don’t feel bad that you’re not funding your child’s education at the moment—you just can’t do it,” Lawrence says. But sometimes, parents can find ways to cut back. “Would you rather fund those birthday parties, or would you rather be putting $100 into a college fund?” she asks. — Theodora Guliadis
STICKING TO A COLLEGE SAVINGS PLAN Although it might sound intimidating, most financial experts agree that you should start saving for college as soon as—if not before—your child is born. “Regardless of your financial circumstances, time is your greatest asset,” says Kalman Chany, author of “Paying For College Without Going Broke 2010,” who recommends that parents start saving for college nine months before their child is born. When it comes to creating a successful college savings plan, there are a few key things to keep in mind. First, says Chany, “Find out if you are likely to qualify for aid or not.” Next, you need to consider the various savings options that are available, such as 529 www.newyorkfamily.com
plans. “The real advantage of the 529 plan is that it extends well beyond undergraduate degrees,” says Ed Ferko, Senior Manager in Vanguard’s Education Markets Group. “It can be used for graduate school, community colleges and many technical schools that participate in the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) Program.” Last, Chany reminds parents to remember “the lesson to be learned from the market meltdown of 2008: As your child gets older, you want to be transitioning your asset allocation into more fixed income investments.” —Jean Halloran-Monaco
HIRING A FINANCIAL ADVISOR Many New York parents struggle with the desire to provide their children with the best they can afford without leaving themselves with a depleted savings account. For families
lar financial advisor is a good match? First, choose someone whose personality is a good fit for your family. “Some of the best investment advisors in the world may not be the best match for a certain family even though they are highly qualified,” notes Famigletti. Next, look for these key traits: 1) Someone who provides a high level of customer service; 2) credibility with the advisor’s firm, its people, and history; and 3) transparency of fees. Lastly, keep in mind your financial plan should be tailored to you. “The plan’s financial goals and time horizon should be specific to you and your family,” points out Famigletti. —Kristen Duca
“is designed to provide death benefit coverage for your entire life and build cash value that you can borrow against tax-free through loans,” according to Berlin. Thus, while permanent insurance is more expensive, it offers you an opportunity to build up “cash value,” which Bahr likens to building up equity in a home. When it comes to choosing an insurance company to work with, Berlin recommends looking for a long history of stability and strength. “Remember that you should be planning for the long term, so the company you choose needs to be able to fulfill its promise to you far into the future,” he says. —Heather Peterson
A PRIMER ON LIFE INSURANCE
WILL WRITING 101
“When people think of life insurance, they think of the end,” says Larry Bahr, financial consultant for AXA Advisors. He recommends that parents ease their discomfort by thinking of life insurance as “a financial tool that we’re all using.” When considering the amount and type of life insurance that works best for your family, have an honest conversation with your partner about your family’s priorities. Beyond discussing immediate needs, such as mortgage payments and childcare, also discuss goals, such as saving for your children’s college educations, a retirement fund and donations to charities. When you’re ready to choose a plan, know that life insurance can be broken down into two types—term insurance and permanent insurance. “Term plans typically cover you for a specific amount of time; we often say it is like ‘renting’ insurance,” explains Scott Berlin, senior vice president of the Individual Life Department at New York Life Insurance. Typically, parents purchase term insurance for a 20year period so that their families can maintain a certain lifestyle until their children are out of the house. Permanent insurance, on the other hand,
“The most important thing parents can do for their families is have a will, and the sooner they draft one the better,” says financial journalist and author, Stacey Bradford. Drafting a will can be as easy as using software like Quicken Willmaker, but Bradford says that as soon as you acquire assets like real estate, life insurance, etc., it’s best to bring in a lawyer. Later, as you have more children, your financial situation changes or becomes more complicated, or any other significant life changes occur, your will should be updated. And instead of locking it away in a bank, a copy should be kept in a fire-proof box in your house, as well as with your lawyer. Most important, Bradford says, is that “the whole point of having a will when you have children is because you want the guardian in place. It’s the only legal way to make your wishes known.” Last, another component to writing wills that parents often overlook is the fact that if your spouse passes away and has independent assets, those assets are split between the surviving spouse and children—meaning the surviving parent would need to go through a trustee to get access to the children’s money they need to raise them. “It can be done, but it’s a hassle—so you really want to [write] the will so that all of the money goes to the surviving parent,” says Bradford. G
“Parents shouldn’t get intimidated when they hear what they should be setting aside for college; doing anything is better than doing nothing.” looking for expert wealth management advice, hiring a financial advisor or planner is a great starting point. “The earlier you start saving, the more [time you allow compound interest to go to work],” says Douglas Famigletti, Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA), partner and managing director at Griffin Asset Management. When choosing a financial advisor to work with, Famigletti believes one should conduct “due diligence like you would for your family’s healthcare providers.” Often, the best way to connect with a financial advisor is through a referral from a friend or family member. But, how do you tell if a particuwww.newyorkfamily.com
March 2010 | New York Family
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for Kids Culture Guide
10
March 4, 5, 6
MADCAP MUSICIANS [ALL AGES] Musical duo Polygraph Lounge invites pre-K and kindergarten-age children to experience their Sound Playground at Carnegie Hall, where everything from a baseball bat to a bouncy ball becomes a musical instrument. Using classical, unusual and made-up instruments (ever heard of a trombadoo?) this twosome puts on a show that calls little ones to explore their own soundmaking abilities. Two performances each day at 10 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. Tickets are $6. 57th Street and Seventh Avenue, 212-2477800, carnegiehall.org.
MARCH
4th-6th
Great Ideas for March By parentsconnect.com and newyorkfamily.com MARCH
6th
March 6
BLOWIN’ IN THE WIND [AGES 5+] You may not have been able to predict whether March was going to come in like a lion, but after the Morris-Jumel Mansion’s weather vane workshop, you and your children will be able to tell which way the wind is blowing. Head to the mansion to create a model weather vane using designs dating back to the Colonial period. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Admission is free, but advanced registration is required. Morris-Jumel Mansion, 65 Jumel Terrace, 212-923-8008, morrisjumel.org.
March 6
GREAT STORIES FOR LITTLE KIDS [AGES 8-12] Hear author E.B. White’s stepson and “New Yorker” fiction editor Roger Angell—stepson of author E.B. White—read from “Charlotte’s Web,” “Stuart Little,” and “The Trumpet of the Swan” during a special children’s reading hour at the 92nd Street Y’s Unterberg Poetry Center. 1 p.m. Tickets are $10. 1395 Lexington Avenue, 212415-5500, 92y.org.
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www.newyorkfamily.com
MARCH
7th March 6, 7
DANCE REVOLUTION [ALL AGES] Join the internationally acclaimed National Dance Theatre Company of Jamaica as they meld the music and dance of Jamaica, Africa and the American South in a dynamic performance for the whole family. 2 p.m. Tickets are $30-$40. Brooklyn Center for the Performing Arts, 2900 Campus Road, Brooklyn, 718-951-4600, brooklyncenteronline.org.
March 7, 13, 14, 20, 21
PAPER BAG OF TRICKS [AGES 4+] Travel to the land of the Pharaohs as the Paper Bag Players present “Great Mummy Adventure;” you’ll dance, sing and laugh right along with the performers. This musical is far from traditional, featuring live painting, paper bag costumes, audience participation, and a mummy named Shirley. Various times and locations, 212-3532332, thepaperbagplayers.org.
March 11
SHAMROCKS AND LEPRECHAUNS [ALL AGES] Head to Central Park’s Chess and Checkers
House to make decorations inspired by the Emerald Isle in preparation for St. Patrick’s Day! 2 p.m. to 4 p.m., free. Chess and Checkers House, located inside Central Park at 64th Street, 212-794-4064, centralparknyc.org.
mat). 104 West 14th Street, 646-638-1444, karmakidsyoga.com.
March 13
The Poppy Seed Players bring us the story of a grumpy landlord, Mr. Sunshine, who tries to find peace and quiet by evicting a daffy teacher and her music school from his property. Head to Merkin Concert Hall to see how the resourceful students save the day and ultimately inspire Mr. Sunshine to sing a brighter tune. 11 a.m. Single tickets cost $20. Merkin Concert Hall, 129 W. 67th Street, 212-501-3303, merkinconcerthall.org.
A FROGGY FRIENDSHIP [AGES 5+] Story time classic “Frog and Toad” comes to life in the Tony Award-nominated musical, “A Year with Frog and Toad.” This adaptation allows audiences to hop, skip and jump through four fun seasons of friendship with these companions. 2 p.m. Tickets are $12. Kingsborough Community College Performing Arts Center, 2001 Oriental Boulevard, Brooklyn, 212-868-4444, kbcc. cuny.edu.
March 21
LIGHTEN UP [ALL AGES]
March 27
READY TO ROCK?
March 14
[ALL AGES]
DOWNWARD DOG DESIGN
The Sippy Cups prove you’re never too young for rock ‘n’ roll. With a repertoire that combines cult rock covers with high-energy performances—complete with puppets, balloons and confetti—this celebrated San Francisco band takes the stage as part of Symphony Space’s “Just Kidding” Saturday series. 11 a.m. Admission is $25 for adults and $15 for children, when tickets are bought prior to the show. Peter Jay Sharp Theater, 2537 Broadway at 95th Street, 212-864-5400, symphonyspace.org. g
[AGES 6+] Kids can bend and stretch their creativity along with their bodies at Karma Kids Yoga, where renowned mat designer and children’s yoga instructor Melissa will lead participants in creating their own unique yoga mats to take home. 11 a.m. Tickets are $40 (includes
MARCH
27th
To submit an event listing, please email newyorkfamily@manhattanmedia.com.
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see parentsconnect.com, the online cityguide for parents. www.newyorkfamily.com
March 2010 | New York Family
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THEATER & PERFORMANCE
New York Theatre Ballet
Richard Termine
Culture Guide for Kids
hat better way to introduce your children to ballet than by combining it with one of their favorite fairytales? Part of NYTB’s “Once Upon a Ballet” series of one-hour ballets for children, “Cinderella” brings to life the familiar story of the infamous stepsisters, the beautiful Cinderella and her handsome prince. Running March 13-14. Florence Gould Hall, 55 East 59th Street, 212-3556160, nytb.org —Heather Peterson
92YTRIBECA The community center’s BYOK (Bring Your Own Kid) Sunday music series invites families to enjoy some of the coolest kid-friendly music around. Catch AudraRox on March 7, Dean Jones’ “Rock, Paper, Scissors” CD Release Party on March 14, Kidrockers on March 21 and Rocknoceros on March 28! 200 Hudson Street, 212-601-1000, 92ytribeca.com.
CARNEGIE HALL The CarnegieKids program for preschoolers and kindergarteners continues March 4-6 with musical duo Polygraph Lounge. On March 12, families are invited to sing along with a cappella sextet Take 6 at the Apollo Theater in Harlem at this season’s second “Community Sing” event. Finally, head to Zankel Hall on March 27 for a Carnegie Hall Family Concert by string trio Time For Three. 154 West 57th Street at Seventh Avenue, 212-247-7800, carnegiehall.org.
LITERALLY ALIVE CHILDREN’S THEATER Through April 25, Literally Alive presents a new musical spin on the classic fairy tale, “Cinderella.” Arts workshops precede every performance. The Players Theater, 115 MacDougal Street, 212866-5170, literallyalive.com.
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New York Family | March 2010
LITTLE ORCHESTRA SOCIETY
NEW YORK THEATRE BALLET
The Lolli-Pops series for kids ages 3-5 presents “A Musical Toy Store” on March 6 and 7. Little ones will learn how toys, like spinning tops, rocking horses and bouncing balls, can serve as musical inspiration! 68th Street between Park and Lexington Avenues, 212-971-9500, littleorchestra.org.
This ballet company is known for its “Once Upon A Ballet” series of one-hour performances for kids. Opening March 13 is “Cinderella” (see sidebar). Florence Gould Hall, 55 East 59th Street, 212-355-6160, nytb.org.
MANHATTAN CHILDREN’S THEATRE This theatre features fun plays for kids of all ages, many of which are adapted from children’s books and other literature. Running through April 18 is “The Velveteen Rabbit,” a nostalgic retelling of the beloved tale of a stuffed rabbit who longs to become real. 52 White Street, 212-226-4085, manhattanchildrenstheatre.org.
NEW VICTORY THEATER From March 5-14, New York’s blockbuster theater for kids presents “The Complete Works of William Shakespeare (abridged),” a fast-paced, less-than-reverent comedy spanning the Bard’s impressive canon. Then, from March 19-April 4, catch Aussie acrobatic troupe “Circa” perform using trapeze, straps, tumbling, juggling, “extreme unicycling” and more. 209 West 42nd Street, 646-223-3010, newvictory.org.
PUPPETWORKS This Park Slope-based not-for-profit features marionette puppet shows for children all year round. Performances are mostly based on children’s literature and international folk and fairy tales. Through March 28, families can catch “The Snow Queen” and “The Emperor’s New Clothes.” 338 Sixth Avenue, Brooklyn, 718-9653391, puppetworks.org.
SKIRBALL CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS This NYU-based cultural center offers a “Big Red Chair” series of performances for families. On March 13, Corbian Visual Arts and Dance presents “Darwin the Dinosaur,” a glow-in-dark theatrical experience about a dinosaur who discovers the true meaning of love. 566 LaGuardia Place, 212-352-3101, skirballcenter.nyu.edu.
www.newyorkfamily.com
Tonight belongs to...
Broadwayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most haunting love story.
Telecharge.com or (212) 239-6200 MAJESTIC THEATRE, 247 West 44TH Street
www.ThePhantomOfTheOpera.com
THEATER & PERFORMANCE
Culture Guide for Kids
SYMPHONY SPACE This theater’s popular “Just Kidding” series means there’s always some place to take the kids on Saturday. This month, be sure to catch The Sippy Cups on March 27. The ongoing Thalia Kids Book Club lets kids ages 9-12 interact with their favorite book authors. 2537 Broadway, 212-864-5400, symphonyspace.org.
TRIBECA CINEMAS The Tribeca Cinemas Kids Club series continues with screenings of the films “Classic Animal Tracks,” “Creature Features” and “The Muppet Movie” on March 6, and “The Big Green Rabbit” and “Charlotte’s Web” on March 20. Each screening includes healthy snacks and is accompanied by a themed activity. 54 Varick Street, tribecafilm.com/kidsclub.
TRIBECA PERFORMING ARTS CENTER On March 14, Tribeca PAC presents “Little Engine That Could,” an Omaha Theater for Young People production that brings the timehonored classic to life through song and dance, life-sized toys, colorful trains and plenty of audience participation! 199 Chambers Street, 212-220-1460, tribecapac.org.
VITAL THEATRE COMPANY Vital’s performances for kids aim to provide children with an educational theater experience with fun productions and interactive theater workshops. Through May, families can catch the hit musical “Pinkalicious,” the story of a little girl who
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New York Family | March 2010
can’t stop eating pink cupcakes! 2162 Broadway at 76th Street, 4th Floor, 212579-0528, vitaltheatre.org.
SHOWSTOPPERS FOR KIDS FOR ALL AGES
GAZILLION BUBBLE SHOW This high-impact show features light effects, lasers and, of course, millions of bubbles, large and small, to create a dazzling production. New World Stages Theatre, 340 West 50th Street, 212-239-6200, gazillionbubbleshow.com.
THE LION KING Disney’s blockbuster movie on Broadway is a combination of puppetry, actors, and special effects–a truly magical experience. For tickets, call 212-307-4747 or visit ticketmaster.com. Minskoff Theatre, 200 West 45th Street.
MARY POPPINS The Supernanny takes to the stage in this hit musical by Disney. For tickets, call 212-3074747 or visit ticketmaster.com. New Amsterdam Theatre, 214 West 42nd Street.
FOR AGES 8 AND UP
WICKED The Wicked Witch of the West finally commands the spotlight. For tickets, call 212-307-4100 or visit ticketmaster.com. Gershwin Theatre, 222 West 51st Street.
MAMMA MIA! There’s not much to the simple plot about a woman finding her real father as she prepares to wed, but ABBA’s tunes keep the feet
tapping. For tickets, call 212-239-6200 or visit telecharge.com. Winter Garden Theatre, 1634 Broadway.
FOR TWEENS
IN THE HEIGHTS This salsa- and Latin pop-infused musical is a portrait of life in Washington Heights. For tickets, call 212-307-4100 or visit ticketmaster.com. Richard Rodgers Theatre, 226 West 46th Street.
THE 39 STEPS A fast-paced, high-energy murder mystery blending elements of Alfred Hitchcock, a spy novel, and even Monty Python. For tickets, call 212-239-6200 or visit telecharge.com. Helen Hayes Theatre, 240 West 44th Street.
BILLY ELLIOT A funny and heart-warming musical about a boy with a dream and a talent for dance. Based on the film, with a musical score written by Elton John. For tickets, call 212-239-6200, or visit telecharge. com. Imperial Theatre, 249 West 45th Street.
THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA The longest-running show in Broadway history delivers mystery, love and heartbreak. For tickets, call 212-239-6200 or visit telecharge. com. Majestic Theatre, 247 West 44th Street.
WEST SIDE STORY The timeless story of star-crossed lovers, Tony and Maria, caught in the rivalry between teenage gangs in 1950s New York returns to Broadway. For tickets, call 212-307-4100 or visit ticketmaster.com. Palace Theatre, 1564 Broadway. G
www.newyorkfamily.com
AVENUE SHOWS invite you to attend
AVENUE on Park Spring Show
April 23-25, 2010 An extraordinary selection of antique, estate and contemporary jewelry, as well as fine porcelain and ceramics, vintage prints and more!
583 Park Avenue
Park Avenue at 63rd Street, New York City For show information and tickets, please visit www.avenueshows.com or call 646.442.1627 Photo by Sarah Merians Photography and Video Company
MUSEUMS
The Jewish Museum
© 2009 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company
Culture Guide for Kids
y
t the exhibition “Curious George Saves The Day: The Art of Margret and H.A. Rey,” families can learn about the life and work of the creators of “Curious George.” Discover the parallels between the children’s stories and the hardships faced by the Reys, who escaped Nazi-occupied Europe with the help of the children’s drawings they carried in their suitcase. Opens March 14. 1109 Fifth Avenue, 212-423-3200, thejewishmuseum.org. – Jean Halloran-Monaco AMERICAN MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY The AMNH’s exhaustive collections span human culture, the natural world, and the universe. Though the weather might be chilly this winter, find up to 500 tropical butterflies fl ying in a vivarium. Don’t forget to check out the exhibition “Traveling the Silk Road: Ancient Pathway to the Modern World.” Central Park West at 79th Street, 212-769-5100, amnh.org.
CHILDREN’S MUSEUM OF THE ARTS This museum showcases art by children and adult artists, employing an artist-in-residence format in which teaching artists work directly with children and their families. This month’s workshops include “Spiders!” (March 6), “Book Making” (March 14), “Starry Night” (March 20),
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New York Family | March 2010
and many more—visit the website to see the full calendar. 182 Lafayette Street, 212-274-0986, cmany.org.
CHILDREN’S MUSEUM OF MANHATTAN This museum offers arts-based educational exhibits and programs in a variety of subjects, as well as extensive offsite outreach. On March 6-7, stop by CMOM’s Sleep Well Festival to learn about the importance of good sleep habits. On March 13, join paper artist Carlos N. Molina to learn how to cut and fold paper into magical shapes. 212 West 83rd Street, 212-721-1234, cmom.org.
GUGGENHEIM MUSEUM The museum offers family-oriented tours and drop-in workshops every Sunday, and families
can drop by anytime and explore the museum’s exhibitions using a free activity pack. On view through March 28 is “Anish Kapoor: Memory.” Visit the website to learn about becoming a member of the newly-launched Guggenheim Kids Club! 1071 Fifth Avenue at 89th Street, 212-423-3500, guggenheim.org.
INTREPID SEA, AIR & SPACE MUSEUM Centered on the World War II aircraft carrier Intrepid, the museum features a range of interactive exhibits. Through April 30, catch traveling exhibit “Snoopy As The World War I Flying Ace,” showcasing 29 prints of cartoonist Charles Schulz’s military aviation-themed designs. Pier 86, 12th Avenue and 46th Street, 877-957-SHIP, intrepidmuseum.org.
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MUSEUMS
Culture Guide for Kids
y
JEWISH MUSEUM
EL MUSEO DEL BARRIO
The Jewish Museum features a permanent collection of more than 28,000 objects— paintings, sculpture, photographs, archaeological artifacts, coins, ceremonial objects and more—relating to Jewish heritage and history. On March 21, catch The Paper Bag Players’ latest production, “The Great Mummy Adventure”—families can even come by early to make their own paper animal puppets during an “Animal Puppetry in Paper” workshop and gallery tour! Plus, on March 28, families can join David Grover and Grover’s Gang for a superfun Passover concert. 109 Fifth Avenue at 92nd Street, 212-423-3200, thejewishmuseum.org.
One of the city’s leading Latino cultural institutions, the museum recently reopened after extensive renovations. Join El Museo for “Super Sabado!”—a free, day-long cultural celebration featuring concerts, gallery tours, workshops and more—happening every third Saturday. 1230 Fifth Avenue, 212-831-7272, elmuseo.org.
METROPOLITAN MUSEUM OF ART The Met’s friendly, interactive programs help children grow an appreciation for the treasures inside this world-renowned museum. Through May 9, families can catch the exhibition “Playing With Pictures: The Art of Victorian Photocollage.” As a family, explore the Met’s collections with slide show orientations, films and sketching programs. Ongoing programs include “Start With Art at the Met” (ages 3-7), “Hello, Met!” (ages 5-12) and “Look Again!” (ages 5-12). 1000 Fifth Avenue, 212-535-7710, metmuseum.org.
MORGAN LIBRARY & MUSEUM Join the Morgan on March 13 for a workshop exploring the exhibition, “Demons and Devotion: The Hours of Catherine of Cleves.” Children ages 6-12 will use traditional materials like malachite chips, saffron threads and cochineal bugs to paint borders illustrating a poem or text. 225 Madison Avenue, 212-685-0008, themorgan.org.
MUSEUM OF MODERN ART The foremost modern art museum in the world, MoMA aims to make its collections accessible to scholars and young children alike. Kids will love the fanged entrance to the otherworldly “Tim Burton” exhibition, which explores the full range of the filmmaker’s work, from early childhood drawings to props and costumes from movies like “Beetlejuice,” “Batman” and “The Nightmare Before Christmas.” The museum’s popular ongoing family programs include “Tours For Fours,” “A Closer Look For Kids,” and “Tours for Tweens.” 11 West 53rd Street, 212-7089400, moma.org.
MUSEUM OF THE CITY OF NEW YORK Explores the history, present and future of the five boroughs. On March 4, the museum welcomes the exhibition “Charles’ Addams’s New York,” showcasing the watercolors, cartoons, pencil sketches and more from “New Yorker” cartoonist Charles Addams, creator of the set of macabre characters known as “The Addams Family.” Also opening this month is “Cars, Culture, and the City,” an exploration of New York’s century-long relationship with the car. While you’re there, catch “Legacy: The
Preservation of Wilderness in New York City Parks”—an immersive experience featuring a Bronx River replica that flows underneath visitors’ feet! 1220 Fifth Avenue at 103rd Street, 212-534-1672, mcny.org.
NEW YORK HALL OF SCIENCE The Hall features the largest collection of hands-on science exhibits in New York City. This month, kids can explore math concepts through interactive exhibits at Math Midway, create their own geometry necklaces and even help Prof. Mousington build a cat trap during “The Great Cat Trap!” preschool puppet show! 47-01 111th Street, Queens, 718-699-0005, nyscience.org.
RUBIN MUSEUM OF ART Home to an extensive collection of art from the Himalayas and surrounding regions, the Rubin offers programs and events for families throughout the year. Kids ages 5 and up and their families are invited to Family Workshops every Saturday. This month’s workshop theme is “Colossal Collages!” 150 West 17th Street, 212-620-5000, rmanyc.org.
WHITNEY MUSEUM OF AMERICAN ART The world-renowned Whitney houses a spectacular collection of 20th century American art. Through the fall, the museum offers familyfriendly programs, like “Stroller Tours,” “Whitney Wees,” “Family Fun” art workshops, “Tours at Two,” for families with kids ages 6-10 and “Artist’s Choice, Artist’s Voice” for families with kids ages 8-12. 945 Madison Avenue, 1-800WHITNEY, whitney.org. G
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Saturday, March 27
Tuesday, March 30
Celebrates the Best of the
March 27 Ð April 3 FREE with CMOM admission.
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Visit www.cmom.org for details
Sunday, March 28 Presented by The New Victory Theater. The Best of the Arts also includes performances by R. Gregory Christie, Danny Grissett & Patrizia Ferrara on April 2 and WeBop® from Jazz at Lincoln Center on April 3!
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New York Family | March 2010
@]j_a Kqp Hkq` sepd Fajjeban Iqhhan+ Pda Skngo Wednesday, March 31 The Tisch Building 212 West 83rd Street New York, NY 10024
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Culture Guide for Kids
WIMPY KID, MEET BIG SCREEN Who Says Nice Guys Finish Last? Author Jeff Kinney Talks About His Books’ Journey from Hardcover to Hollywood BY MICHELLE LEVINE
ave you ever loved a book so much that you wished its characters would jump off the pages and come alive? On March 19, “Diary of a Wimpy Kid” fans will see it happen as the bestselling book series becomes a live-action movie starring Zachary Gordon as Greg Heffley, the hapless middle-schooler otherwise known as the “Wimpy Kid.” New York Family spoke to author Jeff Kinney via phone to hear firsthand the story of his unplanned success. The books’ main character, Greg Heffley, is a seventh grader. Why do you think the books are so popular with younger kids? I think third through fifth grade is the sweet spot. Kids like to read about kids older than them. I mean, 12-year-old girls read “Seventeen” magazine.
How does it feel to be received as a rock star when you appear for book signings? It’s funny, I have a dual life: the normal and completely mundane. I’m a dad, I have a full-time job—then I get to do make-believe sometimes. I love meeting the fans. Do you consider yourself an author or a cartoonist? I never set out to be an author. I call myself a failed cartoonist—not in jest or with false humility. I tried unsuccessfully to break into the newspaper cartooning world. I don’t feel like I necessarily belong at either place— the author convention or the cartoon convention. But I like to be neither here nor there. The “Wimpy Kid” books are not graphic novels, really, but they are not quite illustrated books either. They are books told in the language of cartoons.
Plus, This Month’s Highlights In Books, Music And DVDs BOOKS
Thank You For Me! Written by Marion Dane Bauer, Illustrated by Kristina Stephenson Colorful illustrations and simple rhymes tell a story of a child’s gratitude for everything, from his nose all the way down to his toes. Written by the Newbury Honor Awardwinning author of “On My Honor,” this story is sure to delight children and parents alike. (Available March 23; Simon & Schuster) MUSIC
Jazz Playground It’s easy to get into the groove with
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New York Family | March 2010
How did you get in touch with your inner seventh grader? I spent four years writing down memories from my childhood, talking to my brothers and trying to inhabit the mind of a kid. Are the stories autobiographical at all? There is some family DNA in the books. I was on the soccer team and the swim team. But I was trying to write archetypes—to just portray a generic childhood. You have a new book, “The Wimpy Kid Movie Diary,” coming out along with the movie. Tell us about that book. It was a labor of love. I was involved in the movie process, from hiring writers through script changes, casting, table reads and filming. I was wide-eyed with wonderment about the process, and I realized my audience would be, too. I tried to share the experience while keeping with the diary theme of the series.
Putumayo Kids’ “Jazz Playground.” This CD introduces kids to the diverse sounds of jazz, from bebop and swing to Latin and African jazz, and comes with a storybook-style guide to this global genre. (Available March 9; Putumayo Kids)
What are you up to now? I’m touring with actors from the film, and I started working on the fifth book in the series.
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Will the character of Greg grow older as you write more books? I see Greg as more of a cartoon character than a literary character, and cartoon characters don’t age. Maybe I would take him to freshman year of high school. G
Curious George 2: Follow that Monkey! Curious George is at it again! In this latest adventure he befriends Kayla, a baby elephant, and helps her travel from New York to California to find her family. (Available March 2; Imagine Entertainment)
www.newyorkfamily.com
Mental Illness in Children: How New York Methodist Can Help Identifying mental disorders in youngsters can be tricky for health care providers; children differ from adults in that they experience many physical, mental and emotional changes as they progress through their natural growth and development. But “treating mental illness in children is vital,” said Jessy Colah, M.D., chief of psychiatry at New York Methodist Hospital. “We see many adults whose mental illness originated in childhood and wasn’t treated; this robbed them of years of optimum health.” The good news for parents (and children) is that effective treatment is available for children’s psychiatric disorders. Among the most common illnesses are attention deficit hyperactive disorder, bipolar disorder, anxiety and depression, conduct disorder, oppositional defiant disorder, schizophrenia, eating disorders and tic disorders. New York Methodist Hospital’s pediatric mental health services bring together the best of contemporary biological psychiatry and the most effective psychotherapy strategies. Child psychiatrists today use a combination of treatments,
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which can sometimes involve medication and almost always include some type of behavioral therapy. Diagnosing the illness is the first step. As with adults, mental illnesses in children are diagnosed based on signs and symptoms that suggest a particular disorder. Child psychiatrists typically spend a great deal of time with each patient. “I first meet with the parents alone for an hour,” said Yvonne Roque, M.D., a child psychiatrist who recently joined NYM’s division of psychiatry. Dr. Roque also spends an hour alone with the child before developing a plan of treatment. When treated appropriately and early, many children can fully recover from mental illness or successfully control symptoms. For more information NYM’s child psychiatry services, please call 718 780-3771.
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Lessons Learned When Her Children End Up At Different Schools, A Mom Struggles With Her Own Feelings Of Rejection BY LORRAINE DUFFY MERKL
N
ever was I so fortunate to have a calm, rational husband beside me, than when my son Luke’s Upper East Side school told us they would not be admitting his younger sister. I had always assumed my daughter, Meg, would be just like my boy, who was smart and funny, athletic and popular. He fit in wherever he went. I was realistic enough to figure they’d have their own interests, but assumed they would fundamentally live the same life. “She would not do well here,” said the principal, explaining that Meg, in their big classes, would not get the one-to-one attention she needed, pointing out how their traditional learning style would not do right by a child who “learns differently.” Intellectually, I understood, but emotionally I couldn’t accept that my family was being divided. I looked to my husband, Neil, to pick up my slack and fight for our daughter’s rightful place. To my horror he sat listening intently, nodding. Seeing our opportunity to persuade the principal slipping away, I began begging—offering to hire tutors, even announcing that I would foot the bill to put an assistant teacher in the classroom. Where I would get the money I wasn’t sure, but my mouth just kept running. As I made my pleas, I felt the warmth of a familiar hand on mine. Neil’s touch however, was not one that said, “I’ve got your back,” but, “Sit back and be quiet.” The next thing I knew, we had said our good-byes, I had my coat on, and we were standing out in front of the building. We walked the half a block
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New York Family | March 2010
to the corner, in which time I ranted so loudly my voice echoed on the otherwise quiet block, I mentally enrolled both my children in a different school, and the word “sue” left my lips several times. A cab pulled up and before getting in to go to work, Neil broke his silence to tell me that Luke should stay put and that Meg should attend a school where she is wanted. Then he kissed me and went on his way. That night, Neil asked if I had investigated possible alternatives for Meg. I told him how I’d spent the day trying to get through to a contact high
I didn’t want Meg to be different. I wanted her swathed in a blue blazer with a crest on the pocket. up on the educational food chain who would surely be able to change the principal’s mind. With a chest-heaving sigh, he slipped his hands into the pockets of his navy blue, Brooks Brothers trousers and like a stately Abraham Lincoln, this man, who is the oldest of seven, began his lecture: “People are different, even if they grow up in the same house,” he said. “Everyone has to get where they’re going in their own way and time.” I am an only child and was not exposed to the daily anthropological study on human behavior that was his household. I didn’t want Meg to be
different. I wanted her swathed in a blue blazer with a crest on the pocket. Plus, I couldn’t help but think that word would spread along the gossipy mommy grapevine about my failure to procure a place for my child. “Who cares what people think?” asked my husband. In the end, it took less time than I thought to find a beautiful school that welcomed my girl. You’d think I would have been grateful, yet after dropping her off the first day, the way I carried on rivaled Meryl Streep’s performance in “Sophie’s Choice” when she handed her daughter over to the Nazis. That year, I harassed my son’s principal with meeting after meeting to share the progress my child was making at “that other place,” hoping to turn the educator’s “no” into a “yes.” After a while, my relentlessness lost its charm. Neil put a moratorium on even discussing my ideas. He instead encouraged Meg to do her best and enjoy where she was. She took her father’s advice, and not long after, stopped asking when she’d be able to join her brother. I was finally able to put to rest the saga of the school that might have been, when last June my son graduated. Only then could I appreciate that, while I was looking over my shoulder at what I couldn’t have, Meg had found her groove where she was enrolled. As my husband had predicted, she was getting where she needed to be. A bit more slowly, so is her mother. r Lorraine Duffy Merkl is a columnist for Our Town and the West Side Spirit. Her debut novel, “Fat Chick,” is available on amazon.com and barnesandnoble.com. www.newyorkfamily.com
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