New York Lifestyles Magazine - April 2022 - Manda Kalimian

Vol. 8 #4 | April 2022

CANA Foundation’s

Manda Kalimian Making A Difference

TRAVEL

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Contents FEATURES 18 20 26 32

From The Publisher Stewart F. Lane: A Broadway Powerhouse Manda Kalimian: Making A Difference Profile: Kelly Sullivan—Her New Mission In Life

LIFE & STYLE 35 Spring Fever Edition 38 Culture Capsule: Home & Lifestyle Innovations

© Neil J Tandy

20

TRAVEL 40 42 44 47 48

Classic Maine: Land Of Lobsters & Lighthouses Iceland: Experience Fire, Ice & Otherworldly Contentment A French Kiss: Sip, Stay & Spa In The Champagne Region Sullivan County: Long On Fun Silversea’s Silver Moon: A New World Of Travel

REAL ESTATE & HOME DECOR 50 Emerald Coast: The Hamptons Of The South 52 Around Town: Greenwich Village 54 Robin Wilson: Her Clean Design Home Is Nothing To Sneeze At

© Neil J Tandy

26

HEALTH & WELLNESS 57 Mindie’s Musings: Overcoming Perfectionism 59 Dr. Mariya Malin: No More Fear Of The Dentist

FOOD & DRINK 61 Best Date Night Restaurants 65 Restaurant Review: Sei Less 68 Bourbon Is Having Its Day

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT 70 71 72 74

On Stage Spotlight: Hugh Jackson BroadwayHD: A Spring In Your Step On The Big Screen On The Small Screen

32

PET SPOTLIGHT 77 Paws Down…Tails Up: Fashion Fun Just In Time For Spring

NEW YORK, NY 81 Entrepreneur’s Corner: Evan Tyler 82 My New York Story: Pino Luongo 84 Time Out With…Jona Genova

OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | APRIL 2022

42

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OUR CONTRIBUTORS MERYL PEARLSTEIN Traveling has given Meryl Pearlstein a chance to “live” all over the world, something she’s always longed to do. Meryl loves everything having to do with travel, dining and the arts. Her articles have appeared in Gayot, Crain’s 5boros, New York Magazine, Global Traveler, GQ, Boston Herald, Northshore Magazine, IN New York, Where Traveler, and Fodor’s Guide to New York City. A member of the Society of American Travel Writers (SATW), she is the author of Fodor’s Family: New York City with Kids. Meryl’s blog, Travel and Food Notes (travelandfoodnotes. com) is a companion to her column All NY (allny. com). Follow her on social media @merylpearlstein.

Meryl lives in Manhattan where she can usually be found somewhere on Broadway or in a new restaurant any night of the week.

MARIAN BETANCOURT Marian B etancourt is a journalist and author who has written for scores of publications including Associated Press, the Philadelphia Inquirer, and Travel + Leisure. Her book Heroes of New York Harbor includes a chapter on Emily Roebling and the long-forgotten Lighthouse Kate. Her most recent book, A Woman’s Work, is a novel based on the storied life of Esther Morris, the world’s first justice of the peace who helped make Wyoming the first state to grant women the vote. (And by the way, Morris was originally from New York.) In addition to history and women’s issues, Betancourt was the restaurant writer for Promenade magazine for five years and has co-authored two cookbooks with chefs.

A lifelong New Yorker, she lives in Brooklyn. You can find more on her at MarianBetancourt.com.

GRIFFIN MILLER Griffin is a New York journalist and editor. Her editorial work has also appeared in The New York Times, Promenade, For the Bride, Corporate & Incentive Travel, Hotels, and others. Her articles for New York MetroParents earned her five Parenting Media Association Editorial Gold Awards. Other professional writing includes promotional materials for The Metropolitan Opera, Guggenheim Museum, American Ballet Theatre and the Greater New York Automobile Dealers Association. A member of the New York Travel Writers Association and the Lewis Carroll Society of North America, Griffin is an award-winning collage artist, actress, and playwright. She lives in Forest Hills, New York with her husband, Richard Sandomir of the New York Times, and their cats, Reggie and Cosmo.

OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | APRIL 2022

ISSN 2474-770X

Vol. 8 #4 | April 2022 President / Publisher BILL MASON Editor-in-Chief Patricia Canole

Art Director Scott Cuollo

Editor-at-Large Jeremy Murphy

Lifestyle Griffin Miller

Entertainment Jenny Peters

Special Projects Norah Bradford

Chief Photographer Neil J Tandy Contributing Writers Bailey Beckett, Norah Bradford, Mindie Barnett, Marian Betancourt, Melanie Carden, Bonnie Comley, AP Connolly, Bob Kappstatter, Lillian Langtry, Irvina Lew, Darren Paltrowitz, Meryl Pearlstein, Anne Raso, Jeff & Stephanie Sylva, Annie Watt, Laurie Bain Wilson, Stacey Zable Executive Vice President of Sales LYLE SELTZER Sales Bill Mason Sr. - Director of New Business Development Don Fetherman - Director of Travel Internet Presence Michael McKenzie

Magazine Distribution The Garrido Group

New York Sales Office Editorial/Sales Fax (646) 259-2651 (212) 202-4888 For advertising inquiries, subscriptions, address changes or back issues, call: (646) 259-2651 newyorklifestylesmagazine.com Facebook: /NYLifestylesMag Twitter: @NYLifestylesMag Instagram: @NYLifestylesMag All rights reserved. Reproduction of any material from this issue is expressly forbidden without permission of the publisher. Printed in the USA. New York Lifestyles Magazine is published 10 times annually. ©2022 New York Lifestyles Magazine.

COVER CREDITS: Stewart F. Lane

Photography by Neil J. Tandy

Manda Kalimian

Photography by Neil J. Tandy Makeup by Theresa Lambert

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56 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | NOVEMBER 2021

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LONG-AWAITED SPRINGTIME

Vol. 8 #2 | February 2022

fter what seemed like a long winter, we are finally seeing the light—longer days and warmer temperatures. Springtime is here at last and is one of the best times to enjoy everything New York City has to offer. From rooftop dining, outdoor festivals, parades, and Broadway.

Speaking of The Great White Way, we spotlight one of Broadway’s most successful producers, Stewart F. Lane. There is no doubt this native New Yorker loves the city and in our exclusive interview with him learn how it all began for the awardwinning powerhouse. I guarantee that after reading the cover feature, you’ll have a whole new respect for those who create magic on the stage.

Also featured in this issue is the very beautiful Manda Kalimian who founded the CANA Foundation and headquartered in East Norwich, Long Island. Her passion is to save the wild horses of the west. No easy feat when you considered it takes continuous fund-raising efforts and hours of meetings with those knowledgeable to make it happen. Her radiance and determination shine every time.

Each day in April gradually becomes longer and is certainly a wonderful time for a short getaway or time to contemplate a longer journey. Do locales like Maine or Iceland pique your interest? Or perhaps a once-in-a-lifetime escape to the Champagne region of France might just do it. Wherever it may be, our travel lineup this month is sure to inspire.

Mindie Barnett Makes It Happen!

How This NYC Power Girl Gets It Done

Vol. 6 #8 | November/D ecember 2020

TRAVEL

Great Escapes Near & Far

WELLNESS

Unplug & Unwind At Top Nyc Spas

DINING

On The Menu: Love & Romance

PETS

Valentine’s Day With Your Furry Friends

JACQUES

LIEBERMAN LIFE & STYLE HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE

A C O N V E R S AT I O N WITH THE ARTI ST FOOD & DRINK

BEST WINES TO TOAST THE SEASON

HEALTH

WINTER MYTHS FACT VS. FICTION

BONUS SECTION PETS + GIFTS & MORE

We also welcome our newest columnist, Mindie Barnett, who will be contributing advice on dealing with the challenges of life. The author and motivational speaker is spot on with her first subject: Overcoming perfectionism.

As New York City continues to unmask and open its doors, why not make a date with your significant other for a Broadway show and dinner at one of the city’s classics restaurants. We’ve listed our favorites! NYC is still the number one entertainment and food paradise.

In closing, we at New York Lifestyles wish you and your family a very Happy Easter and Passover.

See you next issue….

-Bill Mason

Publisher

OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | APRIL 2022

Visit us at: newyorklifestylesmagazine.com For subscription or back issues, call:

(646) 259-2651

A BROADWAY POWERHOUSE AN EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW WITH PRODUCER STEWART F. LANE

By Patricia Canole | Photography by Neil J. Tandy

OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | APRIL 2022

FEATURES

roadway is a risky business. Audiences can be fickle. Some shows take off while others don’t.

But despite the uncertainties, Stewart F. Lane says it’s all worth it. For this Tony awardwinning producer (La Cage aux Folles, Thoroughly Modern Millie, War Horse, A Gentleman’s Guide To Love and Marriage to name a few), the risk is intense, and the stress is extreme.

The chance to make something great so balances the equation.

For Lane, it’s never been a real issue. His other accomplishments are equally stellar: Director, playwright, author, former actor.

Lane is also part-owner of the Tribeca Grill with Robert DeNiro.

He is also the co-owner of The Palace Theater, currently being renovated and slated to reopen as part of the multi-billiondollar TSX Broadway project.

But it is as a producer he is known best and unofficially named “Mr. Broadway.”

We recently met with Stewart F. Lane to find out how it all began.

What inspired your love for theater? What was the first show you saw?

My best friend in elementary school was a kid named Ricky.

We used to hang out after school together. Ricky would play Broadway albums, and we would watch comedy movies together. One day Ricky said, “My father is in a Broadway show.

You should join us.” I had never seen a Broadway show. I loved the excitement of putting on a jacket and tie and driving into Manhattan with Ricky and his mother. Ricky’s mom marched us down to the front row to see a musical written by Neil Simon called Little Me, starring Ricky’s father, Sid Caesar.

Sid was up on stage tap dancing, singing, making jokes, and the audience was roaring with laughter. We got to go backstage afterward to visit with Sid. The whole experience was magical.

At that moment, I knew that I wanted to work in the theater.

What does a Broadway producer do?

Most often, when people talk about Broadway producers, they refer to the lead producers responsible for all the costs which can be divided into the three different phases of the show’s life.

The main phases include development, the run of the show, and the closing costs.

The development phase includes presenting the show to theater owners or investors to entice them to join the producing team.

The development comprises budgeting, raising funds, securing the director, and key creative designers and cast. The many costs associated with getting an idea or script from the page to the stage can be development costs. Once the show is headed to a

Broadway theater and starts rehearsals, the costs and phase move from development to running the show costs. This often includes rent to the theater, marketing, accounting, and other expenses while the show sells tickets to the performances.

The closing costs are the lead producer’s financial responsibility and include expenses of shutting down a show and moving it out of the theater. In addition, it can cover any outstanding costs incurred during the run of the play. The lead producer’s responsibility is to understand when the correct time is to stop selling tickets and announce the last performances.

The other names listed are the co-producers who collaborate with the lead producer to raise the financing for the show. It also gives a co-producer access to certain perks; the biggest is usually the credit above the title and, therefore, the eligibility for a Tony Award.

This credit and eligibility are what separates a co-producer from an investor.

Then there is the executive producer that can be found above the title of a Broadway show. They are often general managers with many years of experience who can advise the lead producer, consult with raising funds, and expedite conversations with theater owners, designers, and unions.

How is theater producing like other types of business, and how is it different?

Not all theater producing is the same. There are non-profit organizations and commercial theater companies. Non-profit theater organizations sell tickets, but they also receive funds from donors. I am a commercial producer, which means my shows succeed or fail based on ticket sales. I can have the most incredible performance, but the show closes and investors lose their money if I don’t sell tickets.

Commercial producing is like other businesses in that if it cannot make a profit, the company or, in this case, the show closes. In other businesses, starting small and proving market demand is crucial.

The same is valid with theater producing, where we find out-of-town tryouts. If a show gets good reviews in regional theater, it is assumed that the show will work on Broadway.

One of the biggest challenges to any business is to let customers know about your product, and nothing does that more effectively than the Internet. →

APRIL 2022 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE

This brings us to the popular streaming service you founded with your wife, Bonnie Comley. Tell us more.

Bonnie and I founded BroadwayHD in 2015, which is a pioneering on-demand Internet streaming service. I love going to the theater, and I love sharing great theater experiences with friends and family, so we created it.

Taking the Netflix subscription model and applying it to live theater shows, BroadwayHD features high-quality filmed Broadway and Broadway-caliber, full-length theatrical productions. Subscribers have unlimited on-demand access to a library of more than 300 high-quality, full-length stage shows from Broadway, The West End, and beyond. It’s a way for Broadway fans to watch shows without waiting for the 8 pm curtain to rise!

BroadwayHD is expanding the theater audience by giving them access to a theater anywhere and anytime. The digital version of a show is a full-length commercial for the live stage show. It provides a chance for the consumer to try the product in digital form at a lower price point before investing in the live stage version of the show. People don’t need to choose between the filmed/digital version of the show or the live stage version—they can have both.

How do you know which projects are worth your investment?

The fact is you never know what is going to be successful. Success in the theater business can mean several things. A show can be financially successful, critically acclaimed, and/or award-winning.

Not all award-winning shows are economically prosperous, and sometimes critics hate a show that makes money! I always look for strong characters, an engaging plot, and a budget that makes sense.

What are some valuable strategies to succeed on Broadway as a producer?

I believe that you need to love the story. It might take seven years to develop a presentation for Broadway, and if you don’t love the story, it’s hard to keep going forward. It’s also essential to work with people that have experience, trusted members of the Broadway community because they have relationships with union leaders and other key players in the industry.

I also tell new producers to try and wear two hats when they can. In addition to being the producer, be the public relations, marketing, designer, etc. By doing so, you can generate income from another source and increase your chance of a profit from the show. →

I always look for strong characters, an engaging plot, and a budget that makes sense…

OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | APRIL 2022

APRIL 2022 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE

How do you maintain a passion for the theater despite all the risk and stress of producing?

I’ve been lucky to have had more hits than flops, and when you’ve got “the fire in your belly,” you don’t give up.

Can you reveal any projects you are working on today?

Zorro, The Musical at the Charing Cross Theatre, is a show that I am very excited about producing in the UK. Set in the sizzling heat of 1805s California, a pueblo is under attack from its autocratic leader. The famous redhot tale of the masked hero, El Zorro, fighting for justice and freedom is told in an immersive, thrilling, and headily sensual new production. With zealous, get-on-yourfeet music, featuring international hits by Gipsy Kings including “Bamboleo,” “Baila Me,” and “Djobi Djoba” alongside original music to express a fresh new tale of love, hope, and courage.

We are also working on some exciting new filmed shows for BroadwayHD. Little Women The Musical and Broken Wings is a musical based on the best-selling novelist Khalil Gibran’s The Prophet poetic book and an original score from Middle Eastern duo Nadim Naaman and Dana Al Fardan. Performed in-the-round, Broken Wings takes us on an unmissable musical voyage. Over a century later, the themes and debates raised in Gibran’s story remain increasingly relevant today, exploring issues of gender equality, immigration, the freedom to love who we love, and what home means to us. The filmed version is spectacular and will be streaming exclusively on BroadwayHD. And we will be shooting Back Home Again, a new musical with an original story using the songbook of John Denver for BroadwayHD. I am also a co-producer on the Grammy-nominated Stephen Schwartz’s Snapshots. In addition, I have several other cast recordings and concept recordings coming out in the near future, including This Ain’t No Disco, and Nick Blaemire and Ethan Slater’s Edge of the World.

The successful producer mentioned that he’s been fortunate to work with so many talented people. If it weren’t for the directors, the creatives, the talent, and the business teams, we would have nothing to bring to Broadway. “I feel so privileged that I have a part in bringing their creative works to an audience.”

Welcome back, Broadway!

•

I’ve been lucky to have had more hits than flops, and when you’ve got ‘the fire in your belly,’ you don’t give up…

OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | APRIL 2022

OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | APRIL 2022

FEATURES

CANA FOUNDATION’S MANDA KALIMIAN SHE’S MAKING A DIFFERENCE

By Patricia Canole | Photography by Neil J. Tandy | Makeup by Theresa Lambert

or Manda Kalimian—author, environmental and animal advocate, founder & CEO of CANA Foundation—wild horses that roam America’s West are endangered, as are our lands. What saddens her is that these creatures that are very much native to American soil not only have every right to graze on these lands but can be a critical component in the fight against global warming and climate change.

Unfortunately, the ongoing mismanagement of public lands will ultimately lead to their eradication. Kalimian contends that for the American people and horse lovers, young and old, it means wild horses have been miscategorized as an invasive species to serve a specific agenda.

Those findings, documented in innovative scientific studies, are among the revelations that Kalimian, who oversees her Long Island nonprofit environmental rewilding organization, makes in her book, Born To Rewild: Triumphs of a Now Fearless Woman, published late last year. Her goal is to stop federally funded roundups of wild horses—often sold for slaughter— and re-appropriate for environmental rewilding projects with wild horses as herbivores to impact our planet positively.

Describing why she authored the book, she recently said, “That was my way of reaching out to the American people to say, ‘Do you want your taxes spent this way?’” The government is destroying our environment and our wild horses along with it. The American people don’t even know that $120 million of their tax dollars is being spent this way.

This year alone, it is anticipated the U.S. Bureau of Land Management (BLM) will round up more than 22,000 wild horses and burros to be held at government holding facilities at the cost of $120 million so far. In 2022, only 86,000 wild horses roam rangelands in ten Western states, including California, Nevada, Arizona, Utah, and Oregon, according to the BLM, while there are over 248 million acres of public land available. The BLM, which oversees herd management areas, has been engaged in the cruel practice of chasing down wild horse families with helicopters for the past two decades.

Kalimian spoke with New York Lifestyles Magazine about the advocacy, why the public needs to get involved, and what she sees for the future of the wild horses and the lands they call home.

We’d like to know more about your years growing up. Did you have a love of horses even then?

I was born and raised on Long Island, where I was lucky enough to have exposure at an early age and live near horses. Since my first pony ride when I was three years old, I was hooked and quickly became a lifelong rider. Thirty years later, after two horse farms, several rescues, and launching a nonprofit dedicated to rewilding, it’s become my lifelong journey to save these wild horses. They are a native species to our lands and have a right to live here. But their population is depleting at an alarming rate due to slaughter and mismanagement of public lands lobbied by powerful special interest groups. In addition, these wild horses play a critical role as keystone species in the fight against climate change. They maintain, protect, and help rebuild environmental systems, including grasslands, thus allowing other species to thrive alongside them—all working to keep nature in balance and building biodiversity.

Tell us more about the CANA Foundation’s mission and how it started.

Our mission at CANA Foundation is dedicated to rewilding horses, a form of environmental conservation and ecological restoration with species native to an area. We work with science-backed scholars and published research to create rewilding initiatives for wild horses and environments. More than 15 years ago, after learning about horses being slaughtered in Canada and Mexico, it was at that moment I knew I had to do something. However, once I began my journey, I realized it wasn’t about saving horses—the mission was more significant than that. The horses brought to light the environmental injustices in our country and why understanding that our wild horses are an integral component of the natural system is critical in preserving and maintaining our land and grassland ecology. Wild horses are megaherbivores (plant eaters) that weigh more than 1,000 pounds, create opportunities for other species and plants to play their roles in nature, and help to mitigate carbon. →

APRIL 2022 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE

OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | APRIL 2022

Not too many people are familiar with the word “rewilding.” What does it mean to you?

Rewilding is to bring something back to its original state of being.

What inspired you to write Born To Rewild?

After years of working to bring awareness to the plight of our wild horses and environmental injustices to local communities and elected officials in New York, Washington D.C., and beyond, the best way to reach a larger audience is to put myself out there and share my life and journey. I hope it helps shine a light to realize that we are all affected by what is happening to the horses and lands.

What are you hoping that readers take away after reading your book?

First, we all have a purpose on a personal level. Every single one of us. We all are a part of the big picture—no matter where we are in life—and can play a critical role with issues that resonate with us. It’s never too late. Secondly, we should better understand the value and importance of the environment in our everyday lives. Not only for ourselves but for future generations. Will our grandchildren learn about the wild horses only in books? It is up to us at this critical moment in time.

Since founding CANA, have there been any successful initiatives to help wild horses?

Over the past two decades, our work at CANA has been laser-focused, and we are proud to have raised awareness of issues surrounding our wild horses and environmental destruction. As a result, we led notable change in Washington D.C., including the effectuation of rewilding language for managing America’s wild horses in the FY2020 Interiors Appropriations budget bill. I was also honored to speak about rewilding and the plight of our wild horses at Cambridge University at the Cambridge Conservation Forum in the U.K. in 2019. In addition, I became a founding member of the Institute of Politics and Global Affairs at Cornell. This summer, we are gathering environmental biologists from the U.S. and Europe in Washington D.C., along with our scientific advisory board, opening the conversation with legislative decision-makers.

What was the significance of getting the rewilding language into the government’s lexicon?

It was the first-time rewilding had ever been written into U.S. legislation.

The language is documented in perpetuity and plays a significant part in the work we’re doing moving forward at CANA Foundation.

Are you optimistic that the situation will eventually change with the Biden administration?

I always try to be optimistic under any set of circumstances. Fighting for change can be a constant uphill battle, no matter the administration. We must work in a bipartisan manner through science-backed research to effectuate the change. →

APRIL 2022 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE

It has been determined that horses are a North American native species, despite claims to the contrary. If this is the case, then why the government roadblocks?

The government, unfortunately, has been mismanaging and using the public rangelands as if it’s their own to the benefit of extraordinarily powerful special interest groups, including cattle, ranching, oil, fracking, and mining. There is no tangible benefit to the American people and no regard for the land and its native species. It’s a reckless abandonment of our natural environment.

It’s also been determined that the greatest threat to wild horses is not BLM or ranchers. It’s climate change. Why do you think this is?

Climate change is indeed the greatest threat to all of us. We are all watching as our world continues to dry out and burn up with furnace-like temperatures, rising waters, floods, and massive droughts. The ranchers won’t have land to graze their cattle on if climate change and the “desert-i-fication” of our planet continue to accelerate. However, there is still time to do what must be done to slow the effects of climate breakdown. As published by sciencebacked research, rewilding as a practice will help to combat global warming and allow our fragile ecosystem to heal. The horses can help with this!

Tell us more about your Long Island farm. We heard that it’s genuinely natural, with no pesticides ever allowed. You’ve let Mother Nature take control.

Mother Nature is always in control, and we are simply the stewards for a moment in time. The farm is a 16-acre rewilding space with all native species of flora, an apiary, and a pollinator path—all revolving around our horses properly grazing our lands here. We also produce our organic honey, which is available on CANA Foundation’s website with all proceeds going to the organization’s mission.

OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | APRIL 2022

So much is at stake, including our freedoms, our connections to our wild horses through our past, their significant role in our growth as a civilization…

What do you see for the future of wild horses and your goals at CANA? The future of our wild horses is tenuous, and our government is doing its best to make wild horses a species of the past. We cannot let that happen. So much is at stake, including our freedoms, our connections to our wild horses through our past, their significant role in our growth as a civilization, and their value as an integral part of the natural system. Who will we be as Americans without wild horses on our lands running free?

For more information on Manda Kalimian and the CANA Foundation, visit canafoundation.org •

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PROFILE

KELLY SULLIVAN HER NEW MISSION IN LIFE

By Bailey Beckett

elly Sullivan has turned a lifelong passion for the arts into a diverse, successful career. Now she is focused on a new mission: saving New Jersey’s historic Strand Theater and creating a dynamic space for artistic expression. An artist herself, Sullivan was encouraged from an early age by her grandmother to paint. Her early enthusiasm was to capture portraits of the music talents she admired. Icons like Bruce Springsteen, John Lee Hooker, and BB King, in whose blues club Sullivan’s works hung for years.

Finger Smears, a collaborative painting process in which multiple hands work one large canvas without the use of brushes. As her fame spread, so did the level of participants, including Edie Falco, Carol Burnett, Harrison Ford, and Springsteen himself.

Sullivan now works in western New Jersey, where she maintains an open studio. “My studio has been open to the public for a decade,” she says. “It’s a warm, creative environment on the third floor above the People’s Store Design Center. I’ve met great clients over the years, and I love that part.”

GLOBAL ART Sullivan has also brought her talents to aspiring young artists and was invited to an artist in residency program at a school in Alta, Wyoming, where she developed an integrated art exchange with seven schools worldwide. In addition, she has utilized art to empower adolescent girls through her program Mighty Fingers Facing Change (MFFC), which she has produced in dozens of locations worldwide.

Having made a name for herself, Sullivan also caught the attention of corporate clients, who have commissioned her to create works in conjunction with their employees. “If I am creating a customized piece of art for a corporate client, it’s a very collaborative process,” she says.

“We talk about what they want, the message they are trying to convey, where the piece will hang, and how many employees will participate.

I submit concept sketches based on our conversations, then the client and I work together to arrive at a piece of art we both love, and we are all inspired to build. It’s a fun process for all of us,” she says.

OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | APRIL 2022

“Artists have the power, and in some ways, the responsibility to create work for social change and to inspire others to do the same.

Unfortunately, deciphering the truth has become so difficult that many feel the need to retreat to something basic and reliable. While that can be comforting, it stops us from confronting some of the pressing issues that we face as a society. Sullivan’s workshops and presentations speak to a present need for connectedness, creativity, and compassion.” The artist continued to tell us that artists are also inquisitive. “They are open to experimentation and choose discovery over conquer and beauty over the battle.”

REIMAGINING IS THE KEY However, the battle to save beauty has manifested in her quest to restore the Strand Theater, located near her studio in Lambertville.

The theater was gutted by a fire in 1969, then purposed as a warehouse for the next five decades. Sullivan’s vision is to renovate the Strand into a multi-purpose arthouse. “Once it’s completed, I will be collaborating on several projects with other artists involved and producing work at the Strand. We will also be hosting corporate groups who want an important level of professional artistic infusion into their meetings.”

The space will be designed to host events and client meetings in a highly creative environment combined with visual, musical, and performance arts, uniquely meeting clients’ needs in a completely tailored way. The reborn Strand Arts will be nearly 5,000 square feet and will be will be designed and renovated with state-of-theart technology with broadcast capabilities, providing exponential possibilities as a destination setting with elevated conference space for Lambertville and surrounding area businesses.

Artists, like everyone, also need to get away and unplug. For Sullivan, it means exploring nature and traveling. “I get into my campervan and take off to paint a bit. If I cannot take off in the van, I just put down my computer. I must do that. I also love to cook for friends, and I am excited about the return of the dinner party post-COVID. I hope to resume international travel again next year.”

Sullivan cites her passions as “nature, fresh air, the smell of the ocean, good food, funny people, making things, dancing and great art. But most importantly, my family.”

For more information on Kelly Sullivan, visit kellysullivanart.com

APRIL 2022 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE

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French Leave Resort | www.frenchleaveresort.com | (242) 332-3777

LIFE & STYLE

SPRING FEVER EDITION

By Griffin Miller

rawling out from this past erratic winter into the sunlight that is April epitomizes the blast of New York bliss we’ve been craving. Central Park blooms and beckons. Songbirds get their chirp on. Pastels push greys and blacks to back of the closet. And spring holidays erupt in a celebration of friends and family, with Passover and Easter overlapping into a happy and blessed mid-month weekend. Here’s to us!

BUNNYLICIOUS The kids’ table has never been more fun or fetching than it is once Sur La Table’s Easter Bunny Collection hops onto the scene. Whether it’s a platter, a runner, napkins, plates, cups, bowls, or all the above, rest assured the winsome watercolor renderings of wildflowers, Easter Eggs and, of course, Peter Cottontail himself, will delight tiny diners. And should you wish to nudge the theme up a notch, consider adding some adorable jute-wrapped carrot napkin rings.

Info: surlatable.com

BUDDING GENIUS Techno-centric conundrums plague me. Like earbuds: iffy audio; tangled cords; wireless ones that refuse to stay put, etc. Enter UE FITS, customized buds that to mold to your ear…all day, secure and comfy in (even my despicably puny ear canals) while wowing with awesome sound quality. Bonus: Their trio of colors include spring-savvy lilac and they come with an egg-shaped case, ideal for slipping into an Easter basket or as the Passover prize to the youngster who locates the hidden matzah.

Info: custom.ultimateears.com

HOT WHEELS If 1979’s Roller Boogie is a guilty pleasure and your slick middle school moves at the rink are merely hibernating, have I got a skate for you. Moonlight Roller has reinvented the wheel, blending retro with cutting-edge to create their Moon Boots – a line that shatters expectations with glam styles like “Flashdance” and “Night Fever;” animal prints dubbed “The Prowler” and “The Charmer,” and gemstone colors like Sapphire and Amethyst. Go from sedentary to exhilarated outside or in and let the springtime roll.

Info: moonlightroller.com

FACE FACTS If winter has not been kind to your skin, and you have four minutes to spare, consider Rejuvalift Advanced Tightening and Lifting Formula, a temporary (up to six hours) “facelift” targeting lines around the lips, eyes and forehead, under-eye bags, and creped skin. According to Rejuvalift’s cosmetic chemist, Dr. Marta Pazos, key ingredients were kept to a minimum because “No fluff allows us to maximize the efficacy.” Remarkably affordable, beyond easy to use and, best of all, no surgery required!

Info: rejuvaliftbeauty.com OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | APRIL 2022

CRÈME DE LA CRÈME I’ve found people quite opinionated when it comes to Easter candy. Jellybeans (designer vs. traditional) and chocolate bunnies (milk vs. dark chocolate)—the debates rage on. For me, though, it’s always been Cream Eggs: to-die-for flavors encased in pretty chocolate shells. Sadly, pretty doesn’t equal delicious. Proudly persnickety, I was excited to learn a favorite confectioner, Hilliards Chocolates, offers a quartet of classics: butter cream, chocolate nut fudge, peanut butter, and coconut. All are huge, handcrafted, and heavenly.

Info: hilliardscandy.com

ALPHABETICAL ORDER Now that turtlenecks have given way to open necklines, it’s (obviously) prime time to flaunt your favorite necklaces—as well as add to your collection. Fashionistas have made it clear that multiple chains and pendants are the in bling, but whether you choose to wear it in tandem or solo, Quince’s Initial Necklace is an eye-catching must-have. Boldly sized and made-to-order, this unique piece is crafted from gold vermeil and sterling silver, then layered with 18k gold for a beyond striking effect.

Info: onequince.com

FASHION PLATES As the season synonymous with renewal, spring inspires us to revamp and/or upgrade everything. I’ve decided to synchronize my refresh crusade to coincide with family gatherings, so out with the chipped and pathetic and in with Stone + Lain’s Brighton Porcelain Dinnerware. The freespirited swirl design ensures no two items will be the same, while the style is “high-end timeless.” I opted for the moody grey shade, but their distinctive pink has undeniable seasonal allure. Info: stonelain.co

SEEING REDS I know, spring dictates we put aside red wines for whites and rosés. But this passé tradition (akin to banning white after Labor Day) fails to indulge my year-round cabernet love affair. Call me a rebel with a protocol but passing up Beaulieu Vineyard’s 2019 Rutherford Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon just because it’s Daylight Savings Time is wrong—wrong. This dark berry fruit and chocolate/espresso undertones and flawless bouquet give this luxe red a panache that defies seasonal censorship. Info: bvwines.com

PUT YOUR NECK ON ALIGN Cell phones alone, with their infinite options—from talking and texting to reading and watching—do bad things to our upper body. Toss in gym workouts and hours scrunched over a computer and we’re looking at a nasty muscle-to-misery ratio. Fortunately, a super-smart physical therapist came up with The Nuckle, a seemingly simple gizmo that tackles those irksome mini-muscles at the base of the skull that trigger everything from neck and shoulder aches to migraines.

Effective? Absolutely. Info: alethahealth.com APRIL 2022 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE

LIFE & STYLE

CULTURE CAPSULE HOME & LIFESTYLE INNOVATIONS

By Melanie Carden

CHARGE BIKES

Well, here’s a nugget of good news. You can quickly recapture that carefree feeling of childhood bike-riding but also pedal on over to a wine tasting. Charge Bikes leaves all your excuses in the dust if you’ve been procrastinating about buying a bike. From the makers of Schwinn bikes, Charge offers oodles of features for a surprisingly competitive price. If you want a bike but don’t have much storage space, the Comfort Electric Bike is a contender. The Comfort Bike’s streamlined design offers foldflat handlebars and pedals for ultra-slim storage. The removable battery, pedal-assist, 5-level throttle, and 250W motor help out on challenging hills—or when you want to relax and enjoy the breeze. And, as the name suggests, comfort is built into every inch—the cushy ergonomic seat, low-step frame, and beyond. Adding to the ease of use, the Comfort Bike has a built-in rear rack, perfect for commuting, picnicking, or meandering. I’m not sure how long it took to design, but they thought of everything—like suspension, puncture-resistant Goodyear tires, built-in tire pressure indicators, and front and rear lights.

Perfect for: Commuters, folks who haven’t biked since childhood, gnarly mountain bikers looking for comfy ‘round-town wheels, and anyone who keeps saying “someday I’ll get a bike.” Info: chargebikes.com

THE BRÜUSH

Is that Kevin Hart? The Kevin Hart? Yes, it sure is, and it caught my attention as well. What could be so special about a toothbrush to land one of the industry’s busiest comedians as a spokesperson? So, I did a little digging, and after watching his hilarious mini-performance on their website, I tested it out. First, Brüush is downright pretty. But does it deliver? I’m happy to share a resounding “yes!” I was thrilled with the 4-week battery charge and travel-ready design. There was, for me at least, a tickle adjustment. Which is to say, 31,000 sonic brush strokes per minute is a big jump from my previous rechargeable brush. However, I’m happy to report that I was in the groove within a day and loved it. The best part, though, is that it has six different brush-modes—white, gentle, gum, max, and even tongue.

Perfect for: people who prioritize wellness, those with sensitive teeth or gums, and pretty much anyone who likes to smile. Info: bruush.com

SHREDMASTER HOME OFFICE SHREDDER

The importance of shredding was a lesson that I learned early in life.

Alas, the dreaded moment when a teacher confiscates a note someone passed to you. Read it and shred, kid – no one needs to be in your private business. As we all know, the protection of personal information is especially crucial. One wayward bank letter tossed in the trash could end up in the wrong hands. The fix is easy, though. Of the many shredders on the market, the GBC ShredMaster SX15-06 seems to stand out.

The Goldilocks of home shredders it’s not too big and not too small.

It’s just the right balance of robust capability in a compact size. It can super cross-cut up to 15 pages of documents—including staples and paperclips. As a self-proclaimed power-shredder, I’m excited about the six-gallon capacity bin and intuitive LED screen. This model is available on Amazon, but you can research additional ShredMaster models on their website.

Perfect for: Anyone who wants to take an active role in information privacy and folks with home offices. Info: gbc.com OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | APRIL 2022

NOVEMBER 2021 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 31

TRAVEL

CLASSIC MAINE THE LAND OF LOBSTERS & LIGHTHOUSES

By Jeff & Stephanie Sylva

ravel to Maine’s MidCoast and Islands offers an unforgettable coastal experience where classic New England villages meet the spectacular coastline of Maine. This is what lured us to Maine’s most scenic rocky coast and many of its iconic lighthouses. Best of all, the lobster is fresh and abundantly available.

The MidCoast & Islands Region is sandwiched between two prevalent areas of the state: Ogunquit, Kennebunkport, and Portland to the south and Acadia and Bar Harbor to the north. But don’t overlook the beauty and allure of this coastal region.

PLAY

Once you arrive, you’ll find a wide variety of activities on land and water. First, stroll one of the area’s picturesque beaches, hike some of the many Land Trust preserves trails, or enjoy a boat trip from one of the many harbor towns. Then, explore the beautiful rocky coast with numerous picturesque coves and iconic lighthouses.

One of our favorite lighthouses was Pemaquid Point in Bristol. The Lighthouse Tower and Fishermen’s Museum should be on your list, with the nearby Lighthouse Park providing a great place to enjoy a picnic while admiring the scenic coast. Also, check out Owl’s Head Light and Rockland Breakwater Light, which requires a pleasant 1-mile walk on the rocks of the breakwater to get to the lighthouse.

Admiring Maine’s beautiful coastal scenery from the water is easy. Take a sightseeing cruise or island ferry, paddle a kayak, or relax on a schooner sail. Be sure to book a two-hour sail of Boothbay Harbor aboard the schooner Eastwind for great views of and interesting facts about many of the harbor’s islands, including Burnt Island and its lighthouse. Various whale-and-puffin watch cruises are also available at the docks and trips to other islands such as Monhegan. Lovers of all things nautical will enjoy the Maine Maritime Museum in nearby Bath with many indoor/outdoor exhibits.

While in the Boothbay area, you must experience the Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens. With nearly 300 acres of cultivated gardens, woodland walks, and shoreland trails, the Gardens have been ranked number 1 on Trip Advisor’s “Top Ten Public Gardens in the U.S.” A variety of themed garden attractions, including an imaginative Children’s Garden, provide a beautiful retreat for people of all ages.

We tried to work off some calories with a few trail hikes in the Porter Preserve and Oven’s Mouth Preserve of the Boothbay Region Land Trust. Both hikes offer some very scenic coastal views. MidCoast Maine has numerous hiking opportunities—for a growing list of trails and preserves open to the public. Info: travelmidcoast.com OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | APRIL 2022

STAY

The Boothbay Harbor area is a great place to stay, with its central location to many of the attractions in the MidCoast region. Located in East Boothbay, just 3 miles from Boothbay Harbor, is Five Gables Inn, a beautifully restored 115-year-old Inn. Five Gables offers a perfect opportunity to relax and absorb a postcard-like vista of moored boats on sparkling Linekin Bay. A spacious wraparound porch and the welcoming common room also have beautiful views of the bay. Awaken to a delicious homemade breakfast every morning, including a daily smoothie. Each afternoon enjoys a refreshing beverage and delicious homemade pastry. In the evening, a selection of complimentary dessert wines awaits guests. Each of the Inn’s 15 rooms is unique, all with the feel of a coastal cottage with picturesque views of Linekin Bay. Across the street is a dock perfect for access to swimming or for relaxing in the sun. Info: fivegablesinn.com For accommodations closer to all that Boothbay Harbor has to offer, try Harbour Towne Inn on the Waterfront. The Inn’s 12 Victorian-styled rooms with private decks and scenic harbor views are meticulously decorated with numerous romantic touches. A spectacular penthouse suite has two bedrooms, a full kitchen, dining area, living room, and a private deck with beautiful harbor views. Lush gardens and colorful flowers surround this gracious B&B Inn. Info: harbourtowneinn.com In the spirit of Down East hospitality, a bountiful breakfast is served each morning in the sunny sitting parlor. It can be enjoyed on the waterfront deck or front lawn under a towering elm tree on warm sunny days. Each afternoon fresh-baked cookies are put out for guests. A warming fire in the fireplace takes the chill out on crisp fall days.

EAT

A primary objective for travelers to Maine is to indulge in the state’s most soughtafter staple—lobster. We suggest both local institutions are Robinson’s Wharf in Southport and Shaw’s Fish and Lobster Wharf in New Harbor. These restaurants present the authentic Maine dining experience—picnic tables overlooking the docks where customers watch the lobster boats offload their catch each day.

These restaurants operate a wholesale lobster business, buying directly from the lobstermen. The lobster is cooked fresh off the boats and hand-picked each day.

Both restaurants’ menus offer lobster in numerous ways—in the rough and different variations of rolls, pie, salads, stew, and, of course, bisque. Additionally, menus present broiled and fried seafood, grilled steaks, and authentic clam and fish chowders.

For more on Maine’s MidCoast & Islands region, visit mainesmidcoast.com APRIL 2022 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE

TRAVEL

THE GRANDEUR OF ICELAND EXPERIENCE FIRE, ICE & OTHERWORLDLY CONTENTMENT

By Melanie Carden

celand sounds a bit intimidating. A continent named for ice, after all. But I assure you, this is the most magical and unexpectedly accessible land of adventure. Yes, Iceland is speckled with volcanoes spewing ruby-red lava, and you can casually walk amidst its diamond-like ice structures.

The grandeur of this place is not just what we see above ground but also its caves and geothermal activity below the surface. There are wonders so aweinspiring that they will recalibrate your sense of possibility. And the best part? You don’t need to be a weathered adventurer to experience the wonders of this continent. So, call Iceland Air, and pack your bags.

A HOTEL GEM Hotel Rangá is the antidote for that unsettled feeling you have as you toggle between life’s many pixelpowered screens. The hotel’s creator, Friðrik Pálsson, and his staff have gone to extraordinary lengths to design a space steeped in a rare amalgam of hospitality, unassuming elegance, and uncompromising attention to detail.

You’ll likely chat with him during your stay, and he’ll regale you with Viking lore and interior design alike. His hotel is 85 miles from Keflavik International Airport, ideally located for adventurous day trips, and offers 52 cozy, wellappointed rooms.

Just an hour from Reykjavik, the southern countryside hotel is a designated Small Luxury Hotels of the World property, offering a cozy respite at the base of the Hekla volcano. The hotel’s land has long been chiseled to perfection by the elements. With that in mind, relax in their outdoor geothermal hot tubs or grab your morning coffee and walk along the East Ranga River, which cuts through the property with low-key flair.

But if you’re looking to experience proper, over-the-top flair—book one of the property’s otherworldly accommodation options. Hotel Rangá offers suites themed for each of the Earth’s seven continents. Every subtle detail, artwork, and texture—has been lavishly designed.

Case in point, the Icelandic continentthemed suite has a rotating floor. The circular floor rotates at the push of a button to allow guests to enjoy the expansive window views either from the dining nook or formal sitting area – depending on their whims OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | APRIL 2022

Northern lights Hotel Rangá

North America Master Suite

DIVINE DINING Whether you’re spending the day adventuring or reading a good vacation book, you’ll be looking to indulge at mealtime. The on-property restaurant is a masterclass in breathtaking simplicity—its allglass design gifts its guests with the landscape’s splendor. As a result, you’ll feel entirely immersed in nature while having one of the finest dining experiences Iceland has to offer. Be sure to try their famed mushroom soup, reindeer carpaccio, and—of course—the Icelandic cod. And don’t worry, your host Friðrik always has chilled Champagne available at the breakfast buffet.

© Paige Deasley

Are you heading out for a day of adventure? Be sure to set aside time to grab a bite at Vik’s Black Beach Restaurant as well as the island’s near-magical tomato-farm restaurant—Friðheimar. This fullyfunctioning restaurant is inside the farm’s working greenhouse. I devoured multiple bowls of their intensely satisfying tomato soup, which tastes of sunbaked tomato, fresh-plucked basil, and velvety, fresh-churned Icelandic butter.

© Melanie Carden

WHAT TO SEE & DO From September through April, be on the lookout for the Northern Lights—an oft-elusive light show. Take advantage of Hotel Ranga’s complimentary wake up calls which alert you to overnight sightings.

Of course, there’s so much else to discover in Iceland! Within a 90-minute drive from the hotel, you can ride Icelandic horses at Skeiovellir Horse Farm, explore the caves of Hella, and visit breathtaking waterfalls such as Seljalandsfoss, Skógafoss, and the famed Gullfoss. Also, within that timeframe, you can rent offroading adventure buggies or explore Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach and its silky smooth volcanic-material sand. It’s noteworthy that many of these incredible experiences are all very accessible—drive up, park in the lot, and you’re within a 5-minute walk of mind-blowing natural wonders.

If you’re looking for longer day trips, Hotel Rangá can assist in coordinating local guides such as Southcoast Adventure Tours. The weather can change quickly, and some remote areas can be challenging to navigate, but it’s nothing an experienced guide and a Super Jeep can’t handle. A guided Super Jeep tour is also the best way to experience the beautiful yet unforgiving landscape of the Highlands. This rugged land is wild and glorious, and it just so happens that parts of The Game of Thrones were filmed there. If you’re an adventurer, you’ll enjoy the rewards of the colorful rhyolite mountains of Landmannalaugar, remarkable craters, and a relaxing soak in its geothermal pools. A genuinely unique wonderland, Iceland offers astonishing sights around every corner and for every level of adventure seeker.

For more information on Hotel Rangá, visit hotelranga.i

APRIL 2022 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE

TRAVEL

A FRENCH KISS

SIP, STAY & SPA IN THE CHAMPAGNE REGION

By Irvina Lew

here’s a world of Champagne lovers who adore the famous bubbly without ever realizing that the region—where the grapes are grown, and the wine produced—is a bucket-list destination and a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here’s why.

The region’s capital, Reims, is only 45-minutes from Paris via the TGV high-speed train and can be toured on a day trip, including a cellar tour and a meal paired with Champagne. I recommend staying two or three nights, or more, if possible, to have time to visit small producers and grand Maisons, dine, and spa remarkably well and, perhaps, go ballooning, river cruising, hiking, golfing, or even zip-lining.

REIMS

In Reims, there’s a Roman triumphal arch, a Romanesque 11th century Basilique St. Remi, and a Gothic 13thcentury Cathédrale Notre Dame, the site where 25 kings have been crowned since 816. The Cathedral, tragically, was bombed daily from 1914-1918 during World War I; Americans, including Ford, Rockefeller, and Carnegie, funded its restoration and Marc Chagall designed its magnificent, biblically-themed, stained-glass windows.

The tunnels under the church also date from Roman times. For centuries, these fantastic, vast, underground, multi-level crayères (chalk cellars) have stored wines from some of the city’s major Champagne houses.

Thomas Jefferson was a fan of Ruinart, the oldest Maison; it dates from 1729 when King Louis XV legalized bottles to transport Champagne and started serving it to his noble guests. On a cellar tour at Veuve Clicquot, visitors learn that Barbe Nicole Ponsardin became a Veuve (widow) of M. Clicquot at 27 (1805); she created the still-celebrated golden-orange-labeled brand at 30. The huge Pommery Maison is notable for typical regional architecture—with brick-trimmed doors—and an art-filled visitor center and exhibit space that attracts 130,000 annual visitors.

OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | APRIL 2022

EPERNAY

A picturesque 18-mile drive from Reims to Epernay, the wine capital, follows vine-clad hillsides along The Champagne Trail, where you’ll find small, multi-generational, family vignerons (winemakers) who welcome guests. I was impressed by the winemaker and wines at LaCourte-Godillon, and Champagne Bruno Michel, both organic vineyards; the 400-year old Grand Cru Champagne PenetChardonnet, and Champagne Philipponnat, an 18th-century vineyard producer of Clos des Goisses.

Epernay is a small, beautiful, walkable city with opulent 19th-century mansions located on Avenue de Champagne, said to be the world,s most affluent street because millions of valuable bottles are stored in more than 60 miles of underground cellars. In addition, there are tours and tastings at Moët & Chandon, the largest landowner in Champagne (2500 acres), producing 30 million bottles annually.

Also worth visiting is the less-known winery de Vonage, founded in 1837 by a Swiss family and was the first to launch a Blanc de Noirs, Champagne made with dark grapes. At their visitor center, we drank de Vonage Princes at a simple lunch of baguettes, cheese, charcuterie, and grilled vegetables; then, we toured the Louis XV decorated villa and one of their four family-sized guest suites available to the public.

STAY

La Caserne Chanzy, Reims A Marriott Autograph Collection newcomer opened in Reims in 2021; it’s a new, modern, and well-located hotel built within a fire station building between 1926-1993. One fire truck, La Grande Georgette, nods to the Fire Captain’s wife as the restaurant’s name. Julie Fuillet designed the contemporary look—from the lobby to rooms and the Deep Nature Spa. With exceptional views of the Cathedral, it is also near the Opera, Tau Palace, Carnegie Library, restaurants, and shops.

Manoir Henri Giraud, Aÿ This is a fantastic, art-filled, five-suite, five-star retreat in Aÿ, just outside Epernay. Claude Giraud, the 12th generation of a family that dates to 1625 and head of Champagne Henri Giraud, reconfigured a neighboring three-story, stone-fronted, traditional 19th-century manor house and added the spa’s indoor, heated swimming pool inside a modern, wood-faced, window-walled addition. He welcomes guests to his Domaine with food, wine, and wellness experiences, including Forest Bathing, a walk through the oaks that source the barrels, and Craÿothérapie, a chalk wrap, a soak in a hydrotherapy tub, and body massage. Even day-trippers can reserve a private Table Experience dinner with paired wines or a cellar tour and tasting.

Royal Champagne Hotel & Spa, Champillon A spacious, semi-circular, contemporary wood and stone structure houses Royal Champagne, an exquisite, modern, 49-room, ultra-luxe, tri-level hotel attached to the historic 19th century, Relais de Poste, Coach Stop inn. Terraces outside Bellevue, the all-day restaurant with its mural of Napoleon on horseback, all rooms, the expansive Biologique Recherche spa, and indoor and outdoor swimming pools overlook Moët & Chandon vineyards stretching towards Epernay. Sybille de Margerie, of the Taittinger Champagne family, designed the elegant interior spaces with tributes to Napoleon.

The Le Royal is a gastronomic pleasure.

APRIL 2022 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE

DINE

Le Réfectoire, Pommery Champagne After a self-tour at The Pommery Champagne house in Reims and tasting in the vast, gray-couch studded reception room, which accommodates 130,000 annual visitors, we lunched at Le Refectoire. The spacious restaurant (and outdoor terrace) opened in July 2021 with an expansive, joyful décor, featuring a bright, patterned blue wall, a variety of table settings—each with different metal plates that looked like China— and whimsical glass musical instruments hanging like multicolored earrings. The excellent food, from Croque Monsieur and smoked salmon to duckling and dessert, was served impeccably..

Le Royal at Royal Champagne Hotel & Spa Chef Jean-Denis Rieubland, a two-star Michelin Chef and Meilleur Ouvrier de France (Top Chef), 2007 at Negresco, earned one Michelin star at Le Royal in Nice, within his first six months. In October 2021, we experienced his multicourse Signature Menu in the formal dining room, decorated by images of Napoleon’s wives. Wine pairings from different producers accompanied the meal included Saint Jacques Scallops and Duckling with Figs to Baba au Rhum. Chef also creates monthly, reservation-worthy gastronomic wine pairings with different producers.

Table Experience at Manoir Henri Giraud House Chef Ebby incorporates local and seasonal dishes to custom-curate a multi-course private dinner that complements Champagne Henri Giraud wines. We dined in the art-filled Champagne house and served Homage au Pinot Noir with roasted spice pumpkin; and Argonne-Smoked Scallops. Aÿ Rouge Grand Cru 2018 enhanced the magret duck breast and Ratafia with honey-caramelized apples.

Taking a trip through the Champagne region of France is a once-in-a-lifetime journey. Learning about history and tasting the different types of wines is just the beginning.

For more information on the Champagne region, visit us.atout-france.fr

OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | APRIL 2022

TRAVEL

LONG ON FUN

PUT THE SULLIVAN CATSKILLS ON YOUR SUMMER SHORT LIST

By Jill Feinstein

This legendary vacationland—a two-hour drive from Manhattan—boasts hip, chic, and contemporary full-service resorts, charming inns, and a multi-million-dollar arts center that makes the Sullivan Catskills a worthwhile trip. But that’s not all..

Explore the stunning landscape and the outdoor adventures and end each expedition with a good meal. The food and beverage scene here, dubbed Catskillicious, is ever-expanding and inventive. One of the newest arrivals is chef Kristian Unvericht, who brings Latin American slow food to The Cabin at Hessinger-Lare including braised beef tacos, tortas, and traditional flavors from Mexico.

At the Bashakill Wildlife Management near Wurtsboro, home to the largest freshwater wetlands in southeastern New York, head west to the Hurleyville Rail Trail. Known locally as “The Milk Train Trail,” this segment of the O&W features nearly two miles of ADA-compliant trails. While you’re there, have a nosh at the Pickled Owl or the Tango Café or see a movie at the Hurleyville Performing Arts Centre.

MORE FUN IN SULLIVAN Up in Livingston Manor two craft breweries deserve a visit. Upward Brewing sits at the base of a 120-acre preserve called Beer Mountain. Take the 1.5-mile hike then reward your effort with a refreshing Opiate Sun. In a gold certified LEED building, Catskill Brewery uses organic ingredients to craft Night Shine, Freak Tractor, and more.

Other Good Taste Beverage Trail venues include Roscoe Beer Company, Shrewd Fox Brewery, Callicoon Brewing, Catskill Provisions, Seminary Hill Cidery, Do Good Spirits, Rock Valley Spirits, Russian Mule, Stickett Inn Cider, and Forthright Cyder and Mead.

The Tusten Mountain Trail near the river town of Narrowsburg is a moderately challenging 2.9-mile loop trail walkable from spring through fall. Pups are welcome but must be leashed.

Afterward, bring your appetite to Tusten Cup, The Heron, or the Laundrette. Water sports on the Delaware River are wildly popular.

Lander’s River Trips offers rafting, kayaking, tubing, canoeing, and camping. The crystal-clear waters here are perfect for fly-fishing, and the area is known as the birthplace of American fly-fishing. Lake bait fishing opportunities abound, too.

Families love Kartrite Resort and Indoor Waterpark, where it’s always 84 degrees! Villa Roma Resort and Conference Center has a wide selection of outdoor pools and water features—kids love it. And everyone loves the Sullivan Catskills Dove Trail, a collection of 60 hand painted sculptures perched around the county. The trail commemorates the 50th anniversary of the 1969 Woodstock Music and Arts Fair.

One of the most popular summer attractions is Bethel Woods Center for the Arts. Located at the site of the 1969 Woodstock Music and Arts Fair, the center features an outdoor music pavilion and lawn seating that accommodates 16,000. This summer see The Who, Train, Dave Matthews Band, Phish, Jimmy Buffet, One Republic Alanis Morissette and others.

The Museum at Bethel Woods is dedicated to the ‘60s and the Woodstock festival. Spend a weekend or longer. Enjoy a wellness visit at Yo1 Health Resort. Stay at Resorts World Catskills and play the slots or table games. There’s also a spa and plentiful dining options including celebrity chef Scott Conant’s Cellaio.

Other noteworthy accommodations include The Eldred Preserve, Callicoon Hills, Kenoza Hall and Chatwal Lodge. Vacation rentals are numerous and range from glamping tents to domes to country cottages with firepits and fireplaces. If you like to sleep under the stars there’s a wide selection of campgrounds to choose from, too.

Visit SullivanCatskills.com to book your experience.

APRIL 2022 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 39

TRAVEL

SILVERSEA’S SILVER MOON A NEW WORLD OF TRAVEL

By Norah Bradford

he birth of Silversea’s newest luxury cruise ship, Silver Moon will transport you to unexpected and faraway worlds, awakening your senses with new sights, sounds, and tastes from all over our wondrous planet.

A luxurious cruise can mean many different things to different people, but Silversea believes that their small ship cruises, like Silver Moon, exemplify the true meaning of comfort and intimacy. In addition, Silversea ships are small enough to visit exotic locations.

WELCOME ABOARD With a capacity of 596 passengers, Silver Moon adheres to the Silversea tradition of small, intimate ships with larger-than-life experiences. Guests aboard Silver Moon enjoy all-inclusive dining and beverage packages for the duration of their trip.

Starting this summer, Silversea guests will enjoy shore excursions at no extra cost.

The pool area has one of the largest pools on a ship of this size.

With a staff-to-guest ratio of one-to-one, Silversea’s service remains the crown jewel in the company. Discreet and experienced, these resolute men and women are the key to making your trip a memorable one.

Silversea suites have the highest spaceto-guest ratio of any luxury cruise accommodation. All suites have ocean views, and the majority have a private teak veranda. An attentive staff will pamper all guests.

All bars and lounges offer complimentary select wines, premium spirits, specialty coffees, bottled water, juices, and soft drinks. The mini-bar is continually replenished with your preferred beverages, including wines and spirits.

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ULTIMATE TASTE Silversea’s one-of-a-kind Sea And Land Taste (S.A.L.T.) program will take you on a more profound journey that provides visitors with a rich gastronomic experience. Created in collaboration with Adam Sachs, former editor-in-chief of Saveur magazine, it focuses on reflecting your destination through taste by authentic sourcing ingredients prepared with respect for tradition. Silver Moon is the first in the Silversea fleet to be fully integrated with the cruise line’s S.A.L.T. concept, designed to provide passengers with culture and connection through food.

Silver Moon’s fantastic voyages will take guests through a journey of Northern Europe and the British Isles, with trips from Sweden to Denmark and from Denmark to the United Kingdom. A magical Mediterranean voyage awaits as well, departing from Portugal and arriving in Barbados.

A LOOK TO THE FUTURE Now part of the Royal Caribbean group, Silversea’s cruises are the world’s leading ultra-luxury and expedition cruise line, renowned for both its all-inclusive lifestyle offering and its global destination portfolio. The cruise line offers over nine hundred destinations on all seven continents, enjoying a curated selection of immersive experiences in the world’s most unique locations.

Besides being a luxury leader, Silversea builds on its ongoing sustainability efforts. The cruise line will take delivery of two Evolution-class ships in 2023 and 2024, pushing the boundaries of sustainable cruise travel with pioneering technology that will reduce the ships’ carbon footprints. The Project Evolution cruise ship will be the first to use fuel cells to provide 100 percent power while docked.

It will run on a combination of power sources, including a fuel cell system, battery technology, and dual-fuel engines that run on liquefied natural gas.

So, for your romantic getaway, why not turn to Silversea Cruises for ultimate luxury.

For more information on Silversea Cruises, visit silversea.com

APRIL 2022 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 41

REAL ESTATE & YOUR HOME

FLORIDA’S EMERALD COAST THE HAMPTONS OF THE SOUTH

By Matt McGee

hat is 30A? Where is the Emerald Coast? How has a few miles of beach in north Florida quickly become “The Hamptons of the South?” The area running from Panama City to Pensacola, FL, was marketed for many years as the Emerald Coast with its white sugar beaches and turquoise waters that are not found elsewhere until you get to the Florida Keys or the Bahamas.

Panama City Beach, Pensacola Beach, and Fort Walton Beach developed first, followed by Destin. The hot area now is a collection of small, planned beach towns between Destin and Panama City Beach, referred to as “30A,” which comprises Seaside, WaterColor, Rosemary Beach, Alys, Grayton Beach, Seagrove, and Santa Rosa Beach.

A FAMILY AFFAIR My family started 30A as a tourist destination under Cube McGee with the creation of Seagrove Beach in the 1960s.

Seagrove attracted wealthy individuals looking for a peaceful and remote place to bring their families to relax. However, the area’s broader appeal came from the vision of Robert Davis. He took his family’s 80acre retreat and transformed it into the world’s first, new urbanism community called Seaside, which was later chosen as the movie set location for the utopian town of Jim Carey’s, The Truman Show. The success of Seaside caused other wealthy families to develop their sprawling retreats into the planned beach towns of Rosemary Beach, Alys Beach, and others to become the playground of the South’s elite and “The Hamptons of the South.”

While the other areas of the Emerald Coast are characterized by beachfront condominiums known elsewhere in the US, 30A has remained focused on limiting the number of condos and detached single-family homes and building up the cultures of their small towns. For homes that are within the boundaries of one of the elite communities listed above, the prices range from $1 million for a small inland condo to $17million for a gulf front house in Alys Beach (the most expensive location), with most homes being sold between $2 to $4 million. The price difference between 30A and the Hamptons reflects the fact that while the Hamptons are known for its sprawling multi-million-dollar beachfront estates, that $16.9 million sales in 30A were a 4500 square foot home on a lot that is only 0.04 acres in Alys Beach. The price per square per foot of the land rivals almost all luxury destinations, driven by the allure of their unique architecture, the natural beauty of the area, and the culture that the combination has created.

OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | APRIL 2022

ON THE WATERFRONT As 30A has become highly dense, crowded, and expensive, some wealthy individuals and others who looked to this area for peace and solitude have now looked beyond the beach. The Choctawhatchee Bay, which parallels the beaches of 30A, Destin, and Fort Walton Beach, is arguably the nicest in the country.

It is swimmable water, clean and clear, and has a sandy bottom. Additionally, there are no currents. It offers excellent fishing and has access to some of the most beautiful places: Crab Island the Gulf Islands National Seashore. There’s always the opportunity to take your boat to a beach or spend the day on an uninhabited island.

The properties on the bay still have access to the beaches and the quaint coastal communities. Still, they are generally much larger and more private and present their owners and guests with a much wider array of vacation activities and more to make their second home feel like its own private, Floridian resort.

The challenge is where to look! Not all waterfront is created equal, and its usability varies greatly. The best waterfront has clear water with a sandy bottom deep enough to have a boat and faces either South or West for sunsets and sea breezes. This can be hard to find, but most of this type of vacation-styled waterfront is located in sleepy Fort Walton Beach/Shalimar. Its proximity to the Destin pass, Crab Island, and its many waterfront restaurants and bayous to explore make it the most attractive waterfront and it is only 10 minutes to the Destin/Fort Walton Beach Airport with direct flights to New York.

We have you covered whether you want to join in with the other elites in “The Hamptons of the South” of 30A or have your own private, Floridian resort with waterfront property. At Livin’ Right Real Estate, you’ll find generations of experience and local knowledge to provide you with the best insight on where to make your dream a reality.

For more information on Livin’ Right Real Estate, visit livinrightrealestate.com

APRIL 2022 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE

REAL ESTATE & YOUR HOME

AROUND TOWN GREENWICH VILLAGE

By AP Connolly

ounterculture movement, artist haven, and Bohemian capital. These phrases have been used to describe Greenwich Village at one point or another. While there is still no shortage of art, off-Broadway plays, and jazz clubs, Greenwich Village has become ranked as one of the highest price-per-square-foot areas in New York City.

The good news is you get what you pay for. Take a walk around Greenwich Village’s tree-lined streets and take in all the beauty the neighborhood has to offer. With several buildings being protected by historic designation, you will not have to worry about buying your dream co-op overlooking Washington Square Park and having a 40-story building obstructing your view five years later. So now that worry is out of the way, you can enjoy walking around your neighborhood taking in all that it has to offer.

AN URBAN OASIS One of my favorite spots and I’m sure many people’s favorite, is Washington Square Park. After finding a seat on a bench in the park, just sit back and experience all the vibrant energy of everybody who enters the park. From dog walkers, skateboarders, and the squirrels causing a ruckus, to visitors taking pictures of the famous arch, there is plenty to see.

Naturally, taking in all this beauty and people-watching is work. And one must refuel at some point during the day. One of my favorites places is Minetta Tavern on MacDougal. Bow down to the king. Simply put, The Black Label Burger is incredible. Don’t get hung up on the price tag, or the fact it doesn’t come with cheese. The prime cut of dry-aged ribeye is one of the meatiest burgers you’ll ever taste. It’s finished simply with caramelized onions on a lightly toasted brioche bun.

Another original restaurant that opened in Greenwich Village in 2000 is a restaurant called Blue Hill. Hidden three steps below street level, the restaurant occupies a landmark “speakeasy” just off Washington Square Park.

Dan Barber is one of the most amazing chefs. He creates a menu that coincides with whatever is at peak harvest on his farm in Westchester. Whatever the season may be, your taste buds will surely thank you after a meal here.

If you are looking for a laid-back atmosphere with great food, then head to North Square Restaurant. Their approach to seasonal American cuisine inspired by world traditions and local ingredients makes a fun, delicious menu. Nothing beats heading over to North Square on a Sunday and enjoying their Jazz Brunch in the lounge.

ENTERTAINMENT THRIVES Looking for more entertainment? One of my favorite places to go in Greenwich Village is the Comedy Cellar. Founded in 1982 and voted the best comedy club in NYC, you will see some of the best, famous comedians, as well as up and coming talent.

Music time! If you are looking to hear Jazz, you must swing by the Smalls Jazz Club and the Mezzrow Jazz Club. Featuring live jazz bands and jam sessions with great cocktails, both venues provide the quintessential jazz dive atmosphere that focuses on finding emerging stars. If you’re looking to see some legendary jazz musicians take the stage, then you should check out the Blue Note Jazz Club located at 131 West 3rd Street.

VILLAGE BOUND? If you’re looking to rent in Greenwich Village, you can find studio apartments averaging $3,800 and one-bedroom apartments starting from $4,000 Prices are dependent on location, interior finish, and the building itself. If you are looking to purchase, on average, you can find a one bedroom for $1 to $3 million, whereas two-bedroom apartments can range from $1.8 to $5 million. Again, these prices will vary based on square footage and interior finish.

Looking for that prewar co-op in Greenwich Village? Then you should look at the beautiful, prewar co-ops on Fifth Avenue, such as 1 Fifth Avenue. This overlooks Washington Square Park. Perhaps you are looking for something new and trendy? Well, there’s a lovely building on 21 East 12th Street, or you could travel a bit West and check out The Greenwich Lane. It is a series of five apartment buildings and five townhouses at the former site of the St. Vincent’s Hospital. The buildings have several luxury condominiums, and each has unique differences and a range of styles with a private outdoor space.

OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | APRIL 2022

REAL ESTATE & YOUR HOME

ROBIN WILSON

A LOOK AT HER CREATIVE DESIGN HOME

By Bailey Beckett

obin Wilson has an eye for design and the insight to spot a market opportunity. So, after suffering allergies for years, she summoned her creative and enterprising spirit to develop a hypoallergenic lifestyle brand to meet the needs of nearly sixty million Americans like her who suffer from allergies or asthma. Her line Clean Design Home is the culmination of work that began in 2000, as she entered the home interiors market in the Hamptons, and through referral after referral grew her business exponentially.

“I enjoy a quote by Mira Nair, which says ‘It is as simple as choosing a path and then pursuing it fully and completely.’” But, sometimes, it’s not particularly easy. Layering in the complexity of one or more family members with pan-allergenic conditions complicates the task to challenging and sometimes frustrating, expensive trialand-error.

“I created Clean Home Design influenced by lifetime pan-allergic health issues from pollen to dander to food,” she says. “Our brand covers multiple categories for every room of your home.

For example, we have textiles in the bed and bath categories at leading retailers, including Macy’s and Belk, and soon in the UK and Japan as the first Black international, licensed hypoallergenic textile brand. And we are also launching our mattress collection at retail, so we will be able to help consumers from the mattress to the towels, sheets, and pillows.”

HOME, SWEET HOME

Consumer buying habits have shifted dramatically in the last two years, and fortunately, Wilson’s depth of knowledge in her market prepared her company for the changes and challenges. She shares, “We all recognized that the lexicon of home changed for most of us with the advent of the pandemic. An entirely new culture began with a focus on ‘clean’ and ‘design’ for remote learning and virtual video meetings and ‘home,’ which transitioned from a place you popped in and out to where you spent more time.

“One of my design clients told me that they had an old entry foyer table that they rarely paid attention to before the 2020 pandemic lockdowns since they just placed keys and mail on it. As soon as they were home more frequently, they had to replace that table.

Customers want to change the energy in their living space and find a way to express their inner-self through design.”

As the global economy navigates the pandemic and its aftermath, Wilson is fielding new business challenges. “Global supply chain issues have caused a significant spike in costs and delays for construction projects, furniture/fixture procurement, and these costs are being passed on to consumers,” explains Wilson.

“Recently, I learned that our Amazon-branded store sold out of everything in one week because we were the only store with that type of product at a reasonable price. Now, we are challenged to restock because the wholesale suppliers have gone up four times on their pricing. It is a conundrum that will only be solved by more companies finding a way to manufacture in North America.”

OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | APRIL 2022

PREMIUM QUALITY

The presence of Wilson’s lifestyle brand in such expansive geography presents the need for a broad range of merchandise. “With regard to our textile line, Clean Design Home® x Martex at Macy’s, we have exposure to 165 markets including Hawaii, Guam, and Puerto Rico.

Each consumer in those areas has a different need: some want comforters due to wintry weather; others want pillow protectors to keep pollen out of their hair where year-round pleasant weather is more the norm. And everyone wants a good sleep—so we engineered a bedding and bath collection that is a premium, luxury brand focusing on the hypoallergenic consumer.”

As a mother to a pre-teen, an author, and a business leader running a successful and still-growing, international lifestyle brand, Wilson credits music, reading, exercise, and television with helping her slow down the pace to relax. “One of the best inventions is the Smart TV which allows you to save shows that you want to watch, start a program and then come back to it later if you have free time. It has been so challenging to juggle work-life balance as a working mom, and this is one way that I can refill my well when I need to have mindless entertainment or to watch an educational program.

For more information on Robin Wilson and Clean Design Home, visit cleandesignhome.com

APRIL 2022 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE

340 Noank Road, Mystic CT Nearly new beautifully constructed custom designed home works equally well as your primary residence, vacation home, or rental/ AirBNB property, Overlooking the Mystic River, it is an easy walk to various marinas and into town to a wide variety of shops and restaurants , Sift Bakery , Mystic Market Gourmet Foods, Mystic Art Museum and Mystic Seaport Museum. Maintenance free exterior includes Hardie Board siding Azek trim, IPE decking, storm rated windows, two covered porches for maximum outdoor entertaining, all overlooking the professionally landscaped perennial gardens with pathways and stonewalls. The interior features spacious light and bright rooms, hardwood floors , economical geothermal heating and cooling , whole house generator, extra wide stairways, and central vacuum. Three floors all finished and an additional lower level family room. Four spacious bedrooms each with beautifully outfitted full baths. Central island kitchen features granite counters, five burner gas cooktop and two sinks. Two car garage.

This is an extraordinary opportunty. $1,399,000

RANDALL REALTORS Melinda Carlisle, Phone: (860) 460-8002, Email: melinda@randallrealtors.com

HEALTH & WELLNESS

MINDIE’S MUSINGS ADVICE ON PERFECTIONISM

By Mindie Barnett

e are excited to begin a new monthly advice column, Mindie’s Musings. In each issue author and motivational speaker Mindie Barnett will answer reader’s questions on predicaments pertaining to work, love, family matters, parenting and more. She will provide advice on how to navigate through the current stressful and still uncertain times and hopefully steer the questioner down a clearer path.

Following is Mindie’s first installment.

Dear Mindie, I’d love your advice on how to get out of a perfectionist mindset. I am finding that my desire for the “perfect” situation or outcome causes me to freeze and delay making decisions or trying new things. Even though my goal is to move forward in my life, this wanting everything to be perfect is keeping me static. How can I get out of this cycle? Looking forward to your advice.

Thank you, Paula P. Dear Paula P, Trying to be perfect and striving to show up as the best version of yourself is a positive initiative. But when it starts to interfere with your day-to-day functioning and monopolizes your thoughts, that mission is problematic.

While “perfectionism” is not an actual psychological diagnosis recognized in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), it does fall under the criteria for another disorder; however, obsessive-compulsive personality disorder.

In order to achieve this diagnosis, the obsession over work or other aspects of one’s life must be debilitating to the point no pleasures, such as hobbies or friendships are engaged in.

It doesn’t sound like you’re combating these sorts of intrusive thoughts, but it seems as though your mission to attain the perfect job is causing you some duress and that uneasiness could eventually bleed into other aspects of your life if not addressed.

Without knowing you and understanding the dynamics of your uncertainty of your present job offers, I will make the assessment that you are driven by fear rather than the hunt itself. There will never be a perfect job. That is not reality. You could accept a job and later realize you made a mistake. I suspect that notion is the source of your being upset. I do empathize: Your work search and struggle to find a strong fit, after being out of work or potentially at a career crossroads is not an easy place to stand.

I appreciate how hard it is to truly know if a prospective job or employer is the right fit. One never really knows what the future holds, which may be part of your dilemma. For you, finding the “perfect” job or situation is likely never to be present. I believe it’s fear, rather than perfection standing in your way.

To combat this, I recommend you make a “no negotiations” list of criteria for your next career endeavor. Whatever you really desire, write it down: money, an in-office setting, a work-fromhome dynamic, an opportunity to gain experience or take on new responsibilities you have never managed before. Then, when you are faced with a prospective position, you can crosscheck that all your core needs are all met.

Another must: Lean into your intuition. You need to appreciate that you can make a mistake and that you don’t have to be married to your next role. You may choose to be, and if so, that’s wonderful! But you don’t have to be. You can take a job and choose to sidestep again. One thing rings true, though: You will most certainly grow and evolve more from taking a job and leaving it than you will staying stagnant and plateaued. Go for it, Paula P.!

Being perfect includes owning some imperfections.

Sincerely, Mindie We welcome your questions and invite you to reach out to Mindie at mindiesmusings1@gmail.com to help ease all your dilemmas each month.

APRIL 2022 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE

HEALTH & WELLNESS

DR. MARIYA MALIN NO MORE FEAR OF THE DENTIST

By AP Connolly

ne of life’s most traumatic experiences is going to the dentist. Many individuals suffer from such dire fear that they go into full-blown panic attack at the thought of it. Meet Dr. Mariya Malin, who’s warm and inviting practice utilizes the latest and greatest in dental technology—The LightWalker. No more fear. No more pain.

Thank you, Dr. Malin!

Dr. Malin, before we start, tell us your backstory. Did you always want to enter dentistry?

I grew up in Brooklyn, went to college, and graduated from Stony Brook dental school on Long Island. I always wanted to be in the medical field, but I did not consider dentistry a profession until my senior year in high school when I got a job as a receptionist in a dental office.. Soon after I started, one of the dental assistants quit, and the doctor asked me to assist him with surgeries. I instantly felt the connection. It was incredible.

Why do you think it’s so difficult for patients to overcome the fear of visiting their dentist?

Visiting a dentist will not make it into the top ten of pastime activities. Not even top 100! Some people are afraid of pain, and others are afraid of needles. Many hate being motionless with a gaping mouth for a prolonged period. Often, people are nervous because of an unpleasant experience at some other dental office.

The list goes on and on.

As a professional, my job is to treat patients and make them comfortable. My goal is for a patient to have a wow moment. “I did not even feel it!” Those are the moments I live for because it shows me that I can make a difference and make somebody genuinely happy.

Tell us more about the LightWalker and how it’s revolutionized the oral health industry.

LightWalker laser is an incredible piece of technology.

It has numerous applications in esthetics and dentistry.

For example, imagine you have a cavity. What is the typical process? First, you get a needle. Ouch. Then your dentist uses the drill. After, you can’t eat anything for 4 hours because your face is numb. Laser dentistry can fix cavities without all the painful stuff: no more needle, no more drill, no more numbness. And the most fantastic thing is that laser dentistry can treat canker sores, gum disease, snoring, and much, much more.

APRIL 2022 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE

How does LightWalker work? And can it be used on children as well as adults?

Lasers are safe and effective for treating both kids and adults. For example, when it comes to cavities, the laser uses a calibrated beam of light to remove dead tooth tissue without affecting surrounding areas. The light beam is very conservative and precise, so we don’t have to remove healthy tooth tissue.

However, if we use a regular drill, some healthy tissue will inevitably be removed. Although laser dentistry is as close to painless as it gets, we need to keep in mind some limitations to what lasers can treat. For instance, it can’t be used on teeth with existing metal fillings or cavities located in tricky places where a laser beam can’t reach. Also, some deep cavities may require an anesthetic due to nerve proximity.

What do you advise your patients to help look and feel their best?

Oral hygiene is extremely basic and not too difficult to follow. All that’s needed is to floss, brush, and rinse.

But unfortunately, many people go wrong with the consistency of their efforts, inadequate technique, or inappropriate tools. For example, the electric brush is far superior to the manual one because the electric brush can cover more tooth surfaces with the consistent application of bristles. Similarly, floss is much better and safer than using a toothpick because a toothpick cannot get under the gums without damaging the tissue.

As an influential and successful health care provider, how have you used this platform to benefit the world?

One of the most rewarding experiences I have had is to partner with a local non-profit organization dedicated to providing financial and emotional support for families of children with cancer. We have been participating in their fundraising efforts and are currently working on a program to offer complimentary dental care to the local families of children who have cancer. In addition, we have been reaching out to local schools and organizations to provide complimentary dental services to kids in need.

What would be the one food item we should avoid to reduce tooth decay?

Sugar and carbohydrates (because carbs get turned into sugar). We must control the amount of that substance deposited in our mouths after meals and snacks. In the oral cavity, sugar is the primary food source for bacteria. Thus, limiting sugar will limit bacteria growth and tooth decay associated with it. There are many ways to do it: brushing your teeth after each major meal, flossing before going to bed, and rinsing your mouth with water after each snack. Of course, the best results are achieved when all these techniques are performed daily and combined with regular visits to your dental health care provider.

Lastly, tell our readers if you have a mantra?

It is simple: I will strive to advance my profession by seeking new knowledge and re-examining the past’s ideas and practices. To me, this means progress and dedication to becoming better.

For more information on Dr. Mariya Malin and her practice, visit wilton-smiles.com

OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | APRIL 2022

FOOD & DRINK

THE BEST DATE RESTAURANTS

CLASSIC FINDS & NEW SPOTS TO TRY NOW

By Meryl Pearlstein

he idea of a date night at a restaurant may seem amazingly foreign after two years of ordering takeout and binging Bridgerton or Emily in Paris to fan the flames of romance. It’s time to get off the couch and take your sweetie to one of NYC’s amazing restaurants that will remind you what date night is all about. New York City has some of the most exciting culinary experiences, from classic fine dining to trendy and new. Here are eight of my favorites.

LE BERNARDIN Here’s the kind of restaurant that inspires romantic proposals. Turning the concept of seafood dining on its head, Eric Ripert and Maguy Le Coze’s revered restaurant is one of the most awarded restaurants on the New York dining scene, with some of the most difficult reservations in town.

The Michelin-starred Le Bernardin redid its hushed, elegant interior ten years ago.

Still, other than the cosmetic uplift and the addition of a lounge, nothing has much changed since the restaurant opened in 1986. There’s no reason to: this is culinary perfection and a superb choice for an allimportant night out. Seafood, done up in Ripert’s inimitable French style, stars here. Order a three- or four-course prix fixe tasting menu and choose from “almost raw” selections like scallop with black truffle slivers and a “barely touched” medley of shrimp, uni, razor clam, and langoustines in a dashi broth. I’ve always found that the Chef ’s tasting menu with a wine pairing shows off Le Bernardin at its finest, a hit parade of signature dishes like dreamy Osetra caviar on a “potato cloud” and poached lobster in miso-sake lobster broth. Master sommelier and wine director Aldo Sohm is equally famous, and his unusual wines are always breathtaking.

The presentation and service are superb.

Dress appropriately and splurge – you only live once, and you’ve been in hibernation too long. Plan ahead: Tables are tough to secure, for good reason.

For a more relaxed meal of the same caliber, Le Bernardin’s lounge offers a small menu that samples the fine-dining experience with many signatures: the extensive bread service, small plates like hamachi tartare and Peruvian-style scallop ceviche, and Le Bernardin’s caviar selection.

Info: le-bernardin.com The famous egg at Le Bernardin © Meryl Pearlstein

APRIL 2022 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE

Gabriel Kreuther Signature Sturgeon & Saurkraut courtesy Gabriel Kreuther

VESTRY

GABRIEL KREUTHER Chef Gabriel Kreuther’s eponymous fine-dining restaurant is an homage to his Alsatian upbringing and comes with panache and culinary fireworks.

The gorgeous art-decorated dining room is filled with flowers, swans, and crystal storks overhead. Reclaimed wood beams reminiscent of timber homes in Alsace add a touch of homespun romance that melds seamlessly with the sophistication of the restaurant’s cream-colored banquettes.

Your meal is a symphony of dramatic plates presented with attention to detail. Get your video camera ready as a lifted cloche reveals applewood smoke enshrouding a sturgeon and sauerkraut tart. Caviar and truffles adorn many dishes on the seasonally changing prix fixe menus. Choose three courses, four courses, or the full-out Alsatian tasting menu.

Offering a less formal experience with both à la carte and prix fixe options, the outdoor patio and indoor lounge add traditional French and Alsatian menu dishes like country sausage, pâté, and tartes flambées. In addition, a full wine selection is available. Info: gknyc.com

Here’s a new player on the fine dining scene. And a remarkable one, too. Despite opening during a pandemic, Vestry earned a Michelin star in its first year. The latest restaurant from Australian chef Shaun Hergatt, the SoHo eatery is sexy and chic without feeling formal. There’s whimsy, too, with sheepskin-covered seating and a retro music track that accompanies your dinner.

Hergatt has always had a penchant for mixing fun with elegance. His menus are as colorful as his accent, and here he infuses a Japanese sensibility into food and drink. “Bites” and “small plates” offer an exciting range of unusual ingredients, and Hergatt’s signature gold-leaf finds its way into artfully constructed dishes. Don’t expect the usual—big eye tuna is served over a fish-shaped potato crisp, and hamachi crudo is a gorgeous canvas of raw fish with pear, roe, and kalamansi.

Instead, you might want to make a creative dinner mélange from so many delicious small-plate choices and leave the larger entrees for your return visit.

Vestry dining room © Meryl Pearlstein Vestry’s cocktail menu is equally tempting—try the allwhite mezcal version of a Pisco sour, the Smoke & Fire, a pretty version that perfectly fits the Hergatt sensibility.

The wine list is striking, with 600 labels. For a late-date KUMI evening, Vestry happily stays open until late. The restaurant A recent addition to Manhattan by way of Las Vegas, Kumi sits behind a is tucked into a corner of the Dominick Hotel in SoHo. speakeasy-like door next to the Meridien Hotel. The restaurant brings the Info: vestrynyc.com flavors of Japan with a touch of Korean American in a romantic, colorful room. When you enter, you’ll find yourself first in a fun lounge, perfect for pre-gaming, with comfortable seating and fun tunes as a backdrop.

Sushi rolls, unusual tacos, and Japanese street snacks create an extensive menu perfect for sampling and sharing. Chef Anastacia Song shows her playful side by pairing unique ingredients in distinctively named specialty rolls. For example, the Hot Mess is a must-order combining poke sashimi with avocado and wondrously named Screaming O Sauce; the Kumikaze is a spicy Cajun salmon roll topped with yuzu yogurt. Other Korean-inflected specialties include wagyu gyoza served with spicy pickled cabbage and black vinegar, BBQ pork belly bao with kimchi aioli, and the deliciously messy ginger-chili tempura lobster, a complete meal by itself.

Kumi © Spencer Starnes

OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | APRIL 2022

Cocktails continue the Japanese theme using Japanese whiskey, Japanese rum (yes, rum!), sake, and a taste of Korea with potent shochu. An extensive sake menu and Japanese craft beers are featured as well. Ask to sit in the “nook” where lighting is edgy and colorful, and there’s a feeling of privacy. Just down the block from Carnegie Hall and City Center, Kumi is a date-night, A-lister for pre-theater or a post-concert drink. Finally, take the elevator to LiFE and enjoy a cocktail overlooking Central Park from the rooftop lounge for a clubby finish to your evening.

Info: kumirestaurant.com →

MISI Missy Robbins of A Voce and Lilia fame is a genius when it comes to pasta and everything Italian. Her second Brooklyn restaurant is a triumph with veggies as well. Located in South Williamsburg, a block from the Brooklyn waterfront with extraordinary views of Manhattan, Misi encourages sharing small plates for an inventive menu of vegetable antipasti and handmade dishes of pasta.

This is the restaurant to take your date who doesn’t eat meat or is gluten-free. You both have delicious choices like pasta with Spaghetti alla Chitarra with braised lamb, Tortelli filled with mascarpone spinach and ricotta salata, or gluten-free and fabulously delicious Chickpea Pappardelle with rosemary and garlic. Vegetables are truly exciting here, and they may leave you thinking about going meat-free. Be sure to order the marinated leeks with anchovy and pistachios and grilled Swiss chard with pine nuts. They’re nothing like you’ve had before.

The European-focused wine list spans the Mediterranean and Adriatic, with unusual choices from Italy and Croatia plus selections from Austria and Hungary. Non-wine drinkers can choose from creative Italian-influenced cocktails and an extensive menu of aperitivi.

If you can’t score a table—reservations are hard to come by—there are two bars with side-by-side stools that you can book. The décor is Brooklyn contemporary, a relatively unadorned stage for highlighting Robbins’ beautiful dishes and focusing on your conversation and catching up. Info: misinewyork.com

Spaghetti from Misi © Meryl Pearlstein

NORTH MIZNON North Miznon interior © North Miznon

Chef Eyal Shani has an enormous following from Israel to New York City. His sense of humor and way with Mediterranean cuisine has made his fast-casual Chelsea Market and Hudson Yards Miznon restaurants magnets for diners addicted to the whole roasted baby cauliflower and “folded” cheeseburger pitas served there.

We can now thank him for bringing Manhattan a sitdown, date-worthy restaurant with a more refined menu. North Miznon is dark and romantic, a two-level boîte on the Upper West Side. Here is where you’ll savor dishes from categories like “vegetable creatures” (which can be made vegan if desired), “Grade A cow and lamb fed in flowered fields,” or “wild fish and other creatures from the deep sea.”

This is a fun place with seriously good food. You’ll want to order the playfully named “7 ricotta clouds…. and not one more”—they’re exceptional “pillows of deliciousness,” as I heard one diner call them. Or grab the catch of the day, “the best branzino that I ever ate, the roasted one,” and chuckle as your order it. Meat preparations are the real deal, too, and there’s a wide range of steak and lamb preparations to choose from.

Mediterranean notes spill over into tahini mousse for dessert and a tangy Tel Aviv mojito.

A second fine dining restaurant, HaSalon, takes North Miznon further up the fine dining ladder with prix fixe dining consisting of five “chapters.”

Info: northmiznon.com APRIL 2022 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE

Welcome to Harborside resort montauk

The Harborside Resort Montauk offers a pleasant, friendly atmosphere. On-premise pool and tennis, attractive rooms, studios, suites and efficiencies - each offering many amenities.

Montauk is one of the beautiful resort destinations on the East Coast. Miles of breathtaking coastline, nature trails and preserves, varied watersports from famed surfing to water-skiing to whale watching.

World renowned fishing is found here, too as Montauk is well recognized as one of the top fishing capitals of the world.

For beach lovers, we provide our guests’ access to Montauk’s finest ocean and sound beaches. And, golfers, bring your clubs and golf at the magnificent Robert Trent Jones designed Montauk Downs State Park located just one mile from the Harborside. You can enjoy the pleasure of

nearby horseback riding, being pampered at a marinotherapeutic spa, great shopping and a trip to our treasured beacon - the Montauk Point Lighthouse.

Sample the gourmet delights of the finest restaurants, just a short walk or drive away.

You will never be at a loss of things to do in Montauk - where a great vacation begins!

371 West lake dr. montauk, nY 11954 631.668.2511 montaukharborside.com

YOUR INV ESTM ENT PROPE RT Y SPEC IA L IST MAGGIE CROWLEY, BROKER 25 YEARS OF EXPERIENCE IN INVESTMENT/INCOME PRODUCING PROPERTIES IN ALL OF THE KEYS.

www.floridakeysrealtygroup.com Florida Keys Realty Group, LLC | 305.923.5658

FOOD & DRINK

SEI LESS

THE CITY’S SEXIEST RESTAURANT-SPEAKEASY

By Anne Raso

hen you step past Sei Less’ large pink and white neon sign, you will be greeted with a mysterious world of dark paneling, a curving staircase, leather banquettes, and an immensely long second-floor bar that seems to be teaming with beautiful people. Sei Less is truly a unique concept.

Combine high-end Asian fusion cuisine and the sexy vibe of a speakeasy, and you get the kind of place people want to stop in again and again. There is a norush atmosphere, and service is friendly; many guests linger over their unique appetizers and exotic house cocktail offerings for hours.

Sei Less is the brainchild of hospitality entrepreneur and co-owner Dara Mirjahangiry. Although he started in finance after graduating from Syracuse University, he soon transitioned to hospitality. So, it probably comes as no surprise that Mirjahangiry operated two of New York’s most posh Asian restaurants for over 12 years—Philippe Chow and Jue Lan Club.

He is proud of Sei Less’ mix of regular customers brought in by the intrigue of mixing Asian Fusion with a speakeasy: “What’s beautiful about this concept is that it appeals to everyone, so our clientele is extensive,” he told us. “On a nightly basis, we see everyone from celebrities, music executives, and notable athletes to friends celebrating a birthday or co-workers having drinks after work. We also get many patrons of Madison Square Garden coming for a bite to eat before/after a game or a show.

NEW ON THE SCENE

It’s hard to believe, but Sei Less has only been open since the beginning of the year and has already become the “go-to” midtown hotspot for dinner and drinks. The affable co-owner told New York Lifestyles, “From my perspective the overwhelming support in our opening has been extraordinary. This business is all about people and creating an experience that they’ll want to revisit again and again.”

What’s popular on the menu? Mirjahangiry told us, “The Chicken Satay with our famous Sei Less Peanut Sauce is a favorite. The Pastrami Spring Rolls and Beijing Chicken are also crowd-pleasers.

These dishes are all pleasing to the palate.” As for the mysterious atmosphere pulling people in, he states, “Sei Less is first and foremost an Asian Fusion restaurant, but we have a tremendous bar and a hidden entrance. Together it gives off a speakeasy vibe, which is a unique combination that we’re proud of.”

APRIL 2022 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE

YES, TO ORANGE CHICKEN

It’s saying a mouthful, but Sei Less might serve the best Orange Chicken in NYC—it’s not too sweet (like most local Chinese restaurants) and has a slight tang.

When you bite into the chunks of breast meat with perfect golden breading it’s simply divine. You can get dumplings with many different fillings, including a vegetarian one, and they are served steamed or fried. Still, the Fried Pork Dumplings are indeed a taste sensation thanks to the unusually thick Hoisin-style brown sauce on the side and beautiful golden-brown sear marks around the edges.

The Filet Mignon with Broccoli is unique because not only is the broccoli served nice and firm, but the filet is sliced and served medium rare (most Beef with Broccoli dishes have overcooked meat and tend to be made with cheaper cuts of beef). There are different types of Lo Mein available. We tried the Vegetable Lo Mein, which had a massive variety of vegetables beyond the usual broccoli, peppers, and onions and was very satisfying.

A recommended side or app is the Scallion Pancakes on many tables surrounding us—these Shanghai classics are lightly fried until crispy but have a soft, moist center.

DESSERT, PLEASE!

Don’t forget to have one of the sumptuous desserts. The Molten Lava Cake is served ultra-hot with a side of homemade vanilla ice cream topped with chocolate chips and sitting on a homemade crumble. The New York Cheesecake comes topped with white chocolate bark and is surrounded by an exciting strawberry rhubarb compote.

All portions at Sei Less are made large enough for two people to share, and you probably could get full on the dumplings alone! However, during your dinner, be sure to try the house cocktail, Lychee Martini, which combines lychee juice mixed with artisanal gin and coconut cream.

There are new additions to the Sei Less menu for spring, including Crispy Tuna Rice and more Filet Mignonbased dishes as new additions. Also look for Frosé on the cocktail list for the season.”

After eating, take a stroll around and check out all the unique Asian art and furniture in the upstairs rooms. The fabulous sputnik-style gold chandeliers hanging over the staircase are spectacular as well. Sei Less is endlessly fascinating for its clubby, sexy vibe, and reliable food in large portions!

For more info on SEI LESS, go to seiless.com

OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | APRIL 2022

Welcome to a Tropical Paradise Dramatically situated overlooking Bermuda’s southwest coast, the 75 room family owned and operated Pompano Beach Club is a tropical paradise! The resort offers extensive recreational facilities, exceptional service and hospitality, gourmet cuisine, breathtaking ocean views from every guestroom and a casual, relaxed atmosphere.

Whether you are interested in a Bermuda family holiday, golf vacation, honeymoon getaway, place to relax with your significant other or some fun in the sun, the Pompano Beach Club offers the intimacy of a boutique hotel and the amenities of a world-class beach resort. Pompano’s spectacular shallow waterfront is the only one of its kind in Bermuda, attracting beachgoers, snorkelers, water sports enthusiasts and swimmers of all ages and abilities. Golfers love having Port Royal, the island’s top ranked public course, right next door!

For more information and reservations, visit www.pompanobeachclub.com or call theirtheir reservations office at 1-800-343-4155 For more information and reservations, visit www.pompanobeachclub.com or call sales office at 1-800-343-4155 (toll-free from the U.S. and Canada) (toll-free from the U.S. and Canada)

FOOD & DRINK

BOURBON IS HAVING ITS DAY! PERFECT QUAFFS FOR DERBY DAY (OR ANY DAY) Text & Photos by Jenny Peters

ith the Kentucky Derby Festival (held in Louisville throughout this month) and the Derby (on May 7th), our thoughts turn to Kentucky bourbon. That uniquely American cornbased brown spirit invented in the 1700s is still made almost exclusively in Kentucky and is having its heyday right now.

“There are many reasons that bourbon has exploded in popularity,” explains Gathan Borden, a founding member of the Kentucky Black Bourbon Guild and vice president of marketing for VisitLEX (Lexington, Kentucky). “Don Draper in Mad Men was a bourbon guy, which helped get the idea into the cocktail culture. That’s been on the rise, with mixologists in bars are doing all kinds of things with bourbon cocktails nowadays, so that’s created an approachable way for people to enjoy bourbon.”

With 95 percent of all bourbons produced being made in Kentucky, look no further than that state with the limestone water (the secret ingredient that makes the bourbon so good) for the best that money can buy. In addition, Kentucky bourbon is required to have a minimum of 51 percent corn to be designated as bourbon.

A RECIPE FOR SUCCESS

Often wheat, malted barley, and rye are also included in the “mash bill” (the mix of cooked and fermented grains) that begins making bourbon. Mash bill recipes are closely guarded secrets, and a master distiller chooses the combination. The grains go on through the distilling process, and the resulting alcohol goes into the required charred white oak barrels (to be called Kentucky bourbon). The bourbon must be aged for at least two years before it can be legally bottled, and many spend much more time in the barrel before release.

THE NOSE KNOWS

Choosing a favorite bourbon is a lot like choosing a favorite wine; in other words, it takes a lot of tasting to discover what your palate prefers. For example, the corn in bourbon makes the liquor taste sweeter, while adding wheat intensifies that sweet base and adds bread notes. Well-known bourbons that lean into the wheat include Buffalo Trace, Pappy Van Winkle, and Maker’s Mark. Adding rye instead causes the bourbon to take on a spicy aspect and are often called “high-rye” bourbon when made with 18 percent or more rye; think Basil Hayden, Bulleit, Old Forester Classic, and Woodford Reserve.

58 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | APRIL 2022

Sipping bourbon neat is one way to determine its flavor profile, including tastes of bread and yeast; earthy tones like grass, mushroom, or leather. Additionally, there are herbal tangs like tea, mint, dill, and tobacco; spices including pepper, nutmeg, cinnamon; fruity notes ranging from green apple to berries or raisins; and sweet flavors like chocolate, toffee, and butterscotch. And like wine, the nose of the bourbon will be different than its actual mouth taste.

Drinking it with a large ice cube takes the edge off, but Kentucky bourbon is still a strong spirit, with an average proof of 80 to 100, which means around 45 to 50 percent alcohol. The main ingredient in the classic Mint Julep served on Derby Day is made with sugar or simple syrup, water, crushed ice, and mint leaves. And it’s become a go-to spirit for mixologists all year round. It’s a reality for Fresh Bourbon producers Sean and Tia Edwards believe is the key to bourbon’s ever-rising popularity.

GIDDY-UP TO BOURBON COUNTRY

“Our bourbon is gently sweet and approachable,” Tia Edwards explains, “and for new bourbon drinkers, it doesn’t have what they call that ‘Kentucky fire,’ even though the alcohol content is still high. I love our bourbon in cocktails.”

While the Kentucky Derby is held in Louisville, bourbon lovers will find visiting Lexington a sublime experience, beginning with the worldclass bourbon distilleries and the incredible bluegrass landscapes and good dining experiences.

For more information on Kentucky Bourbon, visit kybourbon.com

Make 21c Museum Hotel your home base, a comfortable boutique hotel that’s peppered with beautiful artworks located right in the center of town. Then, get on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail and roll across the gorgeous horse farms to visit famed distilleries like the massive and ancient 200-year-old Buffalo Trace, famous Woodford Reserve, and the quirky and lovely Castle & Key (it is a castle). Then, back in Lexington, check out the Distillery District right in town.

Be sure to dine at the elegant Dudley’s on Short to taste Chef Mark Richardson’s inspired cooking (and don’t miss the smoked trout Dudley eggs) and plan to go to as many of Chef Ouita Michel’s eight restaurants as you can. We love Wallace Station’s farm vibe and Honeywood’s sleek sophistication, and this James Beard Award multiple nominee’s food is just sublime.

Finally, take the time to hit Keeneland racecourse to see some of the horses you’ve noticed grazing on bluegrass farms run a few races. It’s been one of the world’s top thoroughbred racetracks since 1936 and (naturally) serves up bourbon cocktails and neat sips of Kentucky’s homegrown spirit during every race day.

--JP

APRIL 2022 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 59

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

ON STAGE SPOTLIGHT HUGH JACKMAN: EVERYONE’S MUSIC MAN

By Bonnie Comley

s the President of the Board of The Drama League, I am thrilled to announce that international superstar Hugh Jackman will receive the Drama League’s Distinguished Achievement in Musical Theater.

First bestowed in 1985, the Distinguished Achievement in Musical Theatre recognizes performers, composers, lyricists, choreographers, and directors whose careers have defined the utmost standard of excellence in musicals, and Hugh Jackman is the perfect example of excellence in musicals.

Hugh Jackman started in musical theater at home in Sydney, Australia and after starring in the National Theatres critically acclaimed Oklahoma in 1999, he went on to Hollywood.

Although many of his X-Men Wolverine fans didn’t know he could sing until his Academy Award nominated performance in Les Miserables in 2012, his theater fans were aware of his excellence in theater from his 2004 Tony winning performance in The Boy From Oz, and his 2012 Special Tony Award.

This season he is back in The Music Man with Sutton Foster.

Together, this musical theater duo has been heralded as Broadway royalty and the audiences at the Winter Garden Theatre are on their feet every night with extended standing ovations. It is the must-see show of the season.

I had a chance to ask this pillar of excellence a few questions.

Hugh Jackman & Sutton Foster © Julieta Cervantes

Hugh Jackman & Sutton Foster © Julieta Cervantes

How does it feel to be back on Broadway in a musical?

In a word—awesome! There is nothing more rewarding than live theater.

After the first night of previews, I kept thinking why did I wait so long to come back to Broadway!

Did the pandemic change how you feel about being back with a live audience?

Not really. I know that the protocol set is being taken very seriously.

It is to ensure the safety of the cast, crew, and the audiences. We test often and are diligent about mask wearing, etc. I think you’ll find that most of us will do anything to be able to perform on stage.

Awards season has just begun, and you have already been asked to accept the Drama League Distinguished Achievement in Musical Theater Award. Please tell us what this award means to you?

The Drama League award for distinguished achievement in musical theater is a great honor. I am humbled to be receiving this award. As we all do 8 shows a week, the time together is rare. So, to be in the room with my peers, for a joyful occasion, gives me great happiness.

OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | MARCH 2022

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

A SPRING IN YOUR STEP ALL-TIME BROADWAYHD FAVORITES

By Patricia Canole

If you’ve made your way through BroadwayHD’s incredible selection of classics, look at what it offers in the line of the greatest hits.

BroadwayHD.com is available on your computer or any of your favorite devices such as Roku, AppleTV, Chromecast & Amazon Firestick. Now, let’s check out some of our BroadwayHD favorites!

RODGERS & HAMMERSTEIN’S CAROUSEL The American classic features some of Rodgers and Hammerstein’s most iconic pieces, including “If I Loved You,” “Mister Snow,” “June is Bustin Out All Over,” and the iconic “You’ll Never Walk Alone.” This is a dazzling adaptation featuring allstar performances from Kelli O’Hara, Nathan Gunn, and others.

THE SOUND OF MUSIC The beloved family classic comes alive once again! The world’s most popular musical, The Sound of Music, comes brilliantly to life in this ambitious, live-broadcast production.

The spectacular Kara Tointon delivers a mesmerizing performance as Maria, the tomboyish nun who reluctantly becomes the governess for seven children living in the shadow of their stern widower father (Julian Ovenden).

BYE BYE BIRDIE Relive the musical magic of Bye, Bye Birdie, one of America’s bestloved musicals. In this tuneful parody of Elvis Presley, Conrad Birdie is a wildly popular ’50s rock-n-roll star. Conrad’s manager, Albert (Jason Alexander) and his devoted secretary, Rosie (Vanessa Williams), arrange for Conrad to make a dramatic final appearance on The Ed Sullivan Show, on the eve of his joining the Army.

SHE LOVES ME With an incredible cast led by Zachary Levi, Laura Benanti, and Jane Krakowski, She Loves Me follows Amalia and Georg, two parfumerie clerks who aren,t quite the best of friends. Constantly bumping heads while on the job, the sparring co-workers can,t seem to find common ground. But little do they know the anonymous pen pals they have both been falling for happen to be each other! Will love blossom once their identities are finally revealed?

GODSPELL Prepare the way of Godspell in concert! Theatrical legends come together to celebrate the 50th anniversary of Godspell in an exciting online concert experience. Ruthie Henshall and Darren Day return to reprise their roles and are joined by Sam Tutty, Ria Jones and Jenna Russell.

FIRST DATE Do opposites attract? Fabulous Casey and tightly wound Aaron hope so. These two New York City singles have been set up, but this first date seems doomed from the outset. The two have nothing in common. But with the help of meddling characters, can this mismatched pair turn into something special before the check arrives?

MARCH 2022 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

ON THE BIG SCREEN

By Jenny Peters

MAGIC (AND MORE) FAMILY FUN THE BAD GUYS PG In this zany animated comedy from DreamWorks, five nefarious “bad guys” (a snake, shark, piranha, tarantula, and wolf) spend all their time committing crimes. But when justice comes to call, this likable gang ends up realizing that just perhaps, it’s better to be good guys.

Voiced by talents including Sam Rockwell, Awkwafina, Marc Maron, and Craig Robinson, it’s a flick that will make both kids and adults laugh out loud.

FANTASTIC BEASTS: THE SECRETS OF DUMBLEDORE PG-13 Dive back into the pre-Harry Potter world of wizards in this third installment of the film franchise led by Eddie Redmayne as Newt Scamander, the “Magizoologist” who continues to make Fantastic Beasts a fun and sometimes scary cinematic fantasy pleasure. Jude Law returns (as Dumbledore), as does Katherine Waterston, Mads Mikkelsen, and a talented cast of wizards, Muggles, and even a witch or two.

SONIC THE HEDGEHOG 2 Not yet rated Animation melds with live action in this follow-up to the original Sonic family film, following the adventure of blue hedgehog hero of the SEGA game franchise. Ben Schwartz voices Sonic, Jim Carrey and James Marsden play live-action characters, and Idris Elba brings Knuckles to life with a rousing voiceover performance in this movie made mostly for children’s enjoyment.

CRIMES, SPIES, AND SOME HISTORICAL MAYHEM ALL THE OLD KNIVES R Take two sexy leads (Chris Pine and Thandiwe Newton), throw in two more grizzled veterans (Laurence Fishburne, Jonathan Pryce), add in the gorgeous scenery of NoCal’s Carmel-by-the-Sea, and the result is this CIA spy thriller that goes from romance to thriller in a blink. See it on the big screen for looks at Big Sur, too; or watch on Prime Video in a same-day release for a less-spectacular look.

OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | APRIL 2022

AMBULANCE R Jake Gyllenhaal teams up with director Michael Bay in this crime caper thriller that posits the idea of two robbers stealing an ambulance as a getaway vehicle when their “simple” theft goes awry. Watch for an international cast of characters involved in what is sure to be a very loud experience, as Bay loves to turn up the volume to eleven for no good reason.

FATHER STU R Mark Wahlberg stars in this real-life bio-pic of the man who went from boxer to bouncer to actor to priest in his too-short life. Father Stu Long was a man with demons and a drive, a drive that eventually led him to the priesthood. A Catholic himself, Wahlberg intentionally gained weight to make his role believable.

MEMORY R Liam Neeson is back yet again in another big-screen action flick, this time as a hired assassin who gets into extremely hot water after rejecting an assignment from his shady bosses. It doesn’t help that his memory is going in this remake of the popular Belgian thriller The Memory of a Killer that also stars Monica Bellucci and Guy Pearce.

THE NORTHMAN Not yet rated Blood and guts galore here as Swede Alexander Skarsgaard takes on the leading role of a Norse Viking whose life is complicated by his need to avenge his father’s murder. An all-star cast offers him support in this historical drama filled with carnage and mayhem, including Nicole Kidman, Ethan Hawke, Anya Taylor-Joy, and Willem Dafoe.

APRIL 2022 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 63

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

ON THE SMALL SCREEN

By Jenny Peters

WOMEN: HEAR HER HOLLER THE FIRST LADY Showtime In this star-studded series, viewers get a look at the White House from a unique perspective—that of the First Lady’s life in the East Wing. Produced by and starring Viola Davis (who plays Michelle Obama), the series intertwines three of America’s best-known First Ladies, with Betty Ford played by Michelle Pfeiffer and Eleanor Roosevelt by Gillian Anderson in addition to Obama. Also starring Kiefer Sutherland, Aaron Eckhart, Ellen Burstyn, and Dakota Fanning, this one is sure to fascinate.

JULIA HBO Max This eight-episode series takes a new look at Julia Child’s life as one of the world’s first TV chefs, as she navigates her rise to fame in the 1960s, In a time of social and political upheaval, Julia deftly made her way to the top of a chef ’s world dominated by men, all the while keeping her unique perspective on both cooking and life.

Sarah Lancanshire stars, alongside David Hyde Pierce as Julia’s husband and Bebe Neuwirth.

ROAR Apple TV+ This dark, comedic anthology series is all about women, based on the book of short stories

by Cecelia Ahern and created/ produced by Liz Flahive and Carly Mensch of GLOW fame.

We were in just hearing that news, then learning that the cast features Betty Gilpin and Allison Brie (both from GLOW) as well as Nicole Kidman and Cynthia Erivo put Roar right at the top of our must-see new series list.

SHINING GIRLS Apple TV+ A mystery thriller that follows the aftermath of a brutal assault on a woman (played by Elisabeth Moss, who also produced the series) unpeels like an onion, with questions raised and reality shifts that will keep you guessing. Amy Brenneman and Jamie Bell costar and Leonardo DiCaprio also produced this tense crime drama.

OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | APRIL 2022

BIG STARS, SMALL SCREEN 61ST STREET AMC Oscar nominee Aunjanue Ellis and Emmy winner Courtney B. Vance star in this emotional saga of a teenage Black star athlete swept into a drug bust that eventually exposes the corruption in the Chicago police and justice system. It’s an all-too-topical tale that will put a chill in your heart as the series unfolds. Tosin Cole and Bentley Green also costar in this intense crime drama.

GASLIT Starz Return to the days of Watergate in Washington, D.C., as this drama series recalls those crazy days on Capitol Hill, with Julia Roberts leading the way as Martha Mitchell, the wife/whistleblower whose life was upended by President Nixon and his nefarious cronies. With Sean Penn as her husband John, Dan Stevens as John Dean, and Betty Gilpin as Mo Dean, this one is sure to have some scenery chewing going on before it concludes.

SLOW HORSES Apple TV+ Gary Oldman stars in this spy comedy about a team of British intelligence agents who are all on the skids, having made earlier mistakes that derailed their careers as spies. Based on the novels by Mick Herron, the series is packed with talented actors, including Jonathan Pryce, Kristin Scott-Thomas, and BAFTA Award Rising Star winner Jack Lowden.

TOKYO VICE HBO Max Nearly 40 years after he made Miami Vice a huge TV hit, producer-director Michael Mann returns with Tokyo Vice, a much darker drama that explores the Tokyo criminal underworld. This time out Ansel Elgort is the leading man, playing a reporter who teams up with a cop (Ken Watanabe) to expose the dangerous world of Tokyo’s criminal gangs. Based on reporter Jake Adelstein’s real-life story, this one has action galore (naturally).

APRIL 2022 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE

PET SPOTLIGHT

FASHION FUN

SUNNY LOOKS JUST IN TIME FOR SPRING

By Melanie Carden

pril is spilling over with reasons to smile—fragrant flowers are popping up everywhere. It’s time for longer walks and outings with our fur-babies. And with that, you’ll want to refresh their stockpile of fashion-forward frocks. So, get ready to harness the energy of spring’s flowers, showers, and rainbows!

EASTER HAM, ANYONE? Some bunny is going to steal the show this Easter. From the folks at Great Pet, the Pandaloon Bunny Costume is perfect for dogs and cats who want to ham it up for the holiday.

Info: shop.greatpetcare.com

TIE DYE TWINS Twinning with your pup is always in style but ramp it up with some seasonal tie dye. Tella Couture offers matching sets for everyday wear as well as luxe satin PJs. Info: tellacouture.com

MINT IS IN SEASON Each spring, mint will sprout up in the most unexpected places—including in cat fashion. Supakit offers this simple step-in leather harness in seven colorways, including mint green.

Info: supakit.co

FLORAL LOOK These YOULY pajamas will keep your floofmeister in rosy spirits—even at bedtime. The frock has contrasting trim and is embellished with ruffle accents; sweet dreams, indeed! Info: petco.com

FUNCTIONAL FASHION Be ready for anything this season with this reversible hoodie from Long Dog Clothing Co. Switch from a navy floral pattern to a pale teal color—two outfits in one! Info: petco.com

HAVE PACK, WILL TRAVEL Sometimes spring outings require supplies, and Modern Beast has the perfect solution.

This backpack is designed with a built-in harness—just pack it up and adventure onward!

Info: modernbeast.com

APRIL 2022 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE

SPRING SPRINKLES Don’t let a little spring shower stop you from going on the daily walkies. The GF Pet rain jacket is ready for the runway or whatever Mother Nature has in store. Bonus points for being reversible! Info: chewy.com

DAPPER DOGGOS Radley London understands that every dapper doggo should have one bowtie, at a minimum. Whether for Easter or any day, this look is spring-approved. Info: radleylondon.com

PLUSH PIGGIES Yes! It’s a Guinea Pig modeling the latest in ready-to-wear pig fashion. This little cutie is all in on spring flowers and ready for the annual family portrait. Info: chewy.com

RAINBOW’S TREASURE Don’t forget to give your pup’s leash a spring upgrade. Lulu Simon’s Studio offers this sherbet-hued rope leash, which is seasonally sassy. Info: lulusimonstudio.com

MEOW AT THE LUAU Your kitty will be sitting pretty at your next luau. She’ll be the ‘hostess with the mostest’ in Frisco’s Hawaiian Floral Dress.

Info: chewy.com

LAVENDER & LILACS Spring breezes bring the relaxing scents of lavender and lilacs, so let that inspire your buddy’s casualwear. Available in four colors, this soft chenille sweater from Modern Beast is a musthave. Info: modernbeast.com

OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | APRIL 2022

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ENTREPRENEUR’S CORNER EVAN TYLER, STARLIGHT MUSIC

By Bailey Beckett

usic underscores life’s most significant occasions, and New Yorkers know exactly where to turn to energize their luxury events. Evan Tyler, CEO of the entertainment company Starlight Music is the go-to for party planners, celebrity clients, and corporations looking to throw a fabulous bash with the best jams. His expertise in assisting his clients (Kevin Hart, Michael Douglas, Jimmy Buffet, and Clive Davis) develop a playlist, score, or book live performers has made his company a go-to for all live music needs.

Tyler’s passion for music was evident in his early teens when he became an energetic fixture on the dance floors of weddings and bar/bat mitzvahs. Soon disc jockeys began to note his moves, and he parlayed that into a job at 16 as a paid dancer to get the crowds up and moving. Fast forward several years, and Tyler had gained experience as an event producer and eventually opened his own entertainment company. Growth was swift, and soon he acquired another event company which led to the current Starlight Music, a leader in producing event entertainment, maximizing technology and creativity to illuminate clients’ special occasions.

A COMPANY DIFFERENCE

“Many wedding clients or event planners are feeling enormous pressure to make everything wonderful,” Tyler told us recently.

“But there are an infinite number of vendors to shop. Trying to differentiate ourselves in an oversaturated market can be complicated. Also, most performers in the private industry are not compensated enough for their talent. The clients and the market set their worth or what people should pay. So, I am constantly finding ways to help my amazing performers find multiple ways to earn money. Many clients want to shop live bands online, but there has not been an effective way to do that until now.”

“After 18 months of development, Starlight Music has just launched a web platform that is unlike anything the private event industry has ever seen,” Tyler said of the company’s new site. “Our clients can get band availability and pricing in seconds. They can then view the bands’ large demo video libraries, download proposals, share their results, and even book a band without ever speaking with a salesperson. They can also opt for a traditional demo presentation on Zoom.”

LISTENING TO CLIENTS

This ambitious project has created a transparent environment for customers at a level never seen before in the industry. “We have listened to what clients want, which is to digitize the process and allow them to shop on their own before speaking with someone,” Evan says. “This also allows our customers to save money by keeping our overhead down while allowing us to put more money back into the bands and the overall experience of hiring us.”

In-person events came to a halt in the spring of 2020 as the COVID pandemic swept the world. Suddenly significant life events like weddings were postponed or canceled, and an industry that relied on communal celebrations collapsed. However, Tyler says that he was able to keep his team in place, assisting them with financial help in addition to unemployment. He also reached out to every client collaborating with them to provide support and ease in rescheduling their functions. His resilience helped his employees and clients, and the calendar is now bursting with bookings for 2022 and beyond.

Tyler’s straightforward assessment of problem-solving is simply “dealing with complex situations requiring various strategies.

Successful outcomes are usually a product of understanding what everyone in the situation is thinking and then creating a solution or environment that works for everyone,” he explains. “Some of my daily challenges and issues involve finances, talent, personnel, legal issues, technical, marketing, relationships, etc. One of the biggest challenges is finding the time to do it all. There are only so many hours in a day.”

What does a busy CEO do to unplug? “When I do, it can be as simple as spending time with my young daughters by reading books, coloring, or playing with Play Doh, or having a relaxing meal with my wife,” Tyler says. “Pre-COVID, I was an avid moviegoer. Streaming movies is the vice I use the most when I am alone.”

For more information on Evan Tyler and Starlight Music, visit starlightmusic.com APRIL 2022 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE

NEW YORK, NY

MY NEW YORK STORY PINO LUONGO: PASSION & PASTA

By Marian Betancourt

pening a restaurant is nothing new to Pino Luongo, but when COVID-19 swept in right after a signed a lease for his new Coco Pazzeria, well, it got complicated. Luongo, who left Italy nearly 40 years ago to pursue an acting career, discovered his true passion was preparing fresh, simple Tuscan cuisine for New Yorkers. It caught on, and he opened restaurants here and in other cities, mentored some nowfamous chefs, created Tuscan Village (a forerunner to another well-known Italian food marketplace), and authored a few books. A 1993 New York Times profile on Luongo by food writer Florence Fabricant was headlined From Busboy to Supreme Leader.

Just before the New York State shut down indoor dining in March 2020, there were than 27,000 restaurants, according to the city’s Department of Health and Mental Hygiene. The department doesn’t yet have current figures, but Yelp, which tracks restaurant openings, shows about 2,000 fewer. In addition, the city had 173,500 restaurant employees in June, a 38 percent drop from the 280,000 who were working in December 2019, according to the New York State Department of Labor.

In addition to the loss of customers and workers, escalating food costs and delivery delays had added to the problem.

A LONG ROAD HOME

Luongo has worked long and hard for what he has built and was dismayed at how poorly the city and state managed this crisis. One example was the city’s dizzying list of varying COVID-19 rules for indoor/ outdoor dining, differences in types of proofs of vaccination, where to post signs, what to require from guests. And the list goes on…

After enduring months of chaos that Luongo termed “a nightmare” with sick workers and delays, Coco Pazzeria finally opened at 59th Street and First Avenue. It is an elegant place where you can enjoy a variety of individual small pizzas, salads, and desserts. On a recent warm and bright Friday, all tables inside and outside were occupied.

UPTOWN/DOWNTOWN

While the sidewalks of New York don’t appeal to everyone as a prime dining area, Luongo, who has a Coco Pizza Trattoria on Spring Street, noted that downtown restaurants are packed. “It’s a younger generation there,” he said, that “doesn’t mind sitting together outside, even in winter.” But “Church Street is a mess,” he added, and area residents complain about the noise, parking, and other problems.

Luongo prefers outdoor dining the old-fashioned way when the weather is good, and you sit down among planters.

Ironically, Luongo’s signature restaurant, Morso on 59th Street, near Sutton Place, has always used its private terrace—with planters—for diners during the warm weather. Operating with only 60 percent of the staff, he is determined not to let Morso close, although many regular clients have stayed home. “People who never cooked in their lives began to dine at home,” he noted. Many began ordering ingredients or ready-made meals from the ghost kitchens—also called digital kitchens. Once limited primarily to pizza and Chinese takeout, meal delivery is now the fastest-growing restaurant industry segment, and it more than doubled around the world during the pandemic. A London research firm predicts ghost kitchens will be a $1 trillion industry in the next decade.

WHAT THE FUTURE HOLDS

The National Restaurant Association calls 2022 a transition year as recovery continues, and 51 percent of adults say they aren’t eating at restaurants as often as they would like.

On the other hand, tourists return, and Broadway theaters reopen. Restaurants struggle to cope with the new demand to find workers. Luongo believes it will be a while before we know the future.

“I don’t know if we can go back,” he said. “This will be “the learning year. This is a correction for the wrong steps.”

Luongo is optimistic enough to continue with another new venture, a small seafood restaurant on Prince Street in Soho, but it will lean toward takeout.

Decades of operating restaurants have taught Luongo how to deal with change, and that’s what it takes to be on the leading edge of the business in New York City. “To stay competitive, we must produce good food at the right price,” he said. He projects confidence that his and other restaurants will survive and grow with change. And so will the New Yorkers who love to dine out. (Even if some of them will have a new way to dine in.)

For more information on Pino Luongo and his restaurants, visit morso-nyc.com APRIL 2022 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE

NEW YORK, NY

TIME OUT WITH…

JONA GENOVA, HOLISTIC COACH & INTUITIVE HEALER

By Lillian Langtry

eet Jona Genova, a star in the NFL universe and a go-to performance coach who is gaining tremendous results with her new and unconventional approach, embracing compassion, the complexities of being human, and our natural need for connection.

Jona is a Focus & Flow Integration™ coach and intuitive healer with over 25 years of formal study and practice. Using a unique blend of compassion meditations, energy work, and intuitive gifts, she reaches what cannot be seen and often cannot be spoken through her coaching. Jona’s sensitive nature, exceptional intuition, and palpable charisma enable her to connect authentically with nearly everyone she meets. Her genuine trustworthiness is profoundly healing and working with her has a wide-ranging impact on her clients’ spiritual and emotional well-being.

Jona has spoken at professional conferences. Her work has appeared on Good Morning America, The Los Angeles Times, MSN, and Women’s Health Magazine and in the book Unplug: A Simple Guide to Meditation for Busy Skeptics and Modern Soul Seekers. She is a former Vice President of the Foundation for Active Compassion’s Board of Directors.

New York Lifestyles Magazine sat down with Jona Genova to discuss her background, latest projects, and what we can look for in the future from her.

Tell us your backstory and how you became interested in your current field?

I’m originally from Oswego, NY and attended Boston College, where I met a professor-Tibetan Lama, who put me on my initial spiritual path. After college, I worked on Wall Street then later the nightlife scene in both NYC and LA. While living in LA, I started Tibetan Buddhist meditation practices. I’d say I was destined to do what I’m doing now. There’s no other way to explain the incredible luck and remarkable experiences that have placed me there.

What is the focus of your coaching and healing methods?

I call my method Focus & Flow Integration ™️. It’s about balance in knowing when and how to push, when and how to receive or rest, and how to use the two energies to empower each other. I developed it to help super high achievers realize their best selves on the field, live on stage, or in the high-stakes negotiation room boardroom. I believe that people don’t make it to the top of their game without exceptional focus, discipline, and resilience.

Can you give a synopsis of your work with the NFL and any specific examples of how your work helped a player or coach?

I coach with the NFL both individual and in groups to help players develop emotional awareness, stress management, and meditation skills. Elite performers like professional-level athletes often are extremely sensitive due to their job requirements; their bodies and minds are already incredibly fine-tuned to deliver such a high level of performance.

I skillfully provide the necessary space for super high achievers to explore their humanity, gain clarity, and trust that they are limitless beings. Whether I’m delivering an interactive keynote to help rookies thrive through uncertainty and change, guiding injured players to release self-sabotaging thoughts, or meeting one-on-one with a head coach to manage the mental, emotional, and physical impact of extraordinary stress.

Where do you see yourself in the next five years?

I hope to have positively impacted even more lives both on and off the field in five years. I hope to be a recognizable name in the NFL with Player Engagement Directors, coaches, and players as a performance coach who gets tremendous results with her unconventional approach. Ultimately, I hope this work contributes to collective healing. I plan to be speaking to broader audiences about my approach and the interconnectedness of this human experience.

Jona is a great believer in practicing what she preaches and is implementing the methods to train others into her own life. For more information on Jona Genova, visit jonagenova.com

OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | APRIL 2022

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1224 ALMERIA AVE, CORAL GABLES, FL $3,150,000 | 5 BEDS | 4.5 BATHS | 4,857 SQFT 1224 ALMERIA A VE, CORAL GABLES, FL $2,850,000 | 5 BEDS |and5.5 BATHS | -4,857 Elegant executive home - almost 5000 sq ft under air - close to downtown - offices-schools shopping - parks marble SQFT floors spiral marble stairs - 5 bedroom-4 1/2 bath-plus cabana or 1/1 for live-in - family room with wet bar and wine cooler - gym- under Elegant 5 bedroom/5 home with marble throughout. room,2nd dining room air- office-formal living room1/2 withbath wood burning fireplace - masterfloors suite with two built out -Large walk inliving closets-private floor patio terrace with private stairs to great pool - 14entertaining. foot ceilings- a covered rear entertaining patiotwo - heated poolwalk with spa whole house 30 dayto and kitchen make for Master Suite features large in- closets.

Close diesel generator - shutters - closeResort to the Biltmore Hotel and golf - Salvatore tennis comes center - Venetian - parks downtown Biltmore Hotel and Golf and University ofresort Miami.

Property with a pool host of amenities: schools-churches showings-by appointment only

• 14 ft. Ceilings • Family room with full wet bar

• Free form heated Pool with Spa • Gym and Exercise Room

MICHAEL LAWRENCE REALTOR Cell: 305-389-0760 MLawrence@mpar1.com

• Working Fireplace • Diesel Generator

Miami Pan American Realty Inc. 12484 NW South River Dr. Medley, FL 33178

PRIME COMMERCIAL & RESIDENTIAL SPACE(10,994 SQ. FT.) 85960 Overseas Highway Plantation key, FL 33036 Offering Price : $5,500,000 The Strahl Plaza in Islamorada offers Retail,Office, and 2 Complete Penthouse Stories of Private Residential Space. Combined with multiple boat slips, this truly checks all the boxes. 1st floor features both covered and outdoor parking while the 2nd floor offers 5 occupied retail spaces each with their own entrance bathrooms and rear waterfront porches. The 3rd floor is self-contained and accessible by its own locked off elevator or staircases. It is perfectly suited as a medical office space or for shared use. The entire floor consists of 12 offices and offers 2 full baths with shower facilities.

This presents a unique opportunity to locate your business to the Florida Keys especially when the space can be coupled with two additional levels of private living space offering open water views from all angles. It is currently structured as a 2 bedroom 2 -1/2 bath apartment on one floor with the top open floor being your own bar, game room and captains quarters.

The convenient location just seconds away from the Snake Creek bridge allows sailboats and large boats access and dockage at the property. The Commercial space truly offers so many possibilities. Create your very own piece of paradise for work and leisure.

This Income producing property is maintained impeccably by the current owners.

For Full Details Contact:

MAGGIE CROWLEY, BROKER

www.floridakeysrealtygroup.com Florida Keys Realty Group, LLC | 305.923.5658