New York Lifestyles Magazine - August 2019

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Vol. 5 #6 | August 2019


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Contents

15

FEATURES 12 15 44 50 52

From The Publisher Cover Feature: The Best Burgers In Town Through The Lens With Annie Watt Bits & Bailey: The Who, What & Wow Of The Luxury Scene Tech Talk: Cool Gadgets For Summer Days

STYLE 22 5 Easy Pieces: Luxury Luggage From T. Anthony 24 Beat The Heat 26 Life & Style: Laid Back And Loving It

24

TRAVEL 28 31 34 36 38 40 42 54

Disney Adventures: Head to Galaxy’s Edge & Beyond Cooperstown: A Bucket List Getaway For Baseball Fans The Berkshires: The Hills Are Alive! The Beekman Arms & Delamater Inn Putting The Glitz Back In The Ritz Lexington, Kentucky: History, Horses…And Bourbon Tee Time: Golf Courses To Test Your Mettle Crossing The Pond In Style: British Airways Redefines Luxury

31

REAL ESTATE & HOME DECOR 58 61 65 68 70

Around Town: West Chelsea When Only The Finest Will Do Waterline Square: Rethinking How You Live One Hundred Barclay: Modern Luxury In TriBeca The Pierrepont: Classic Living In Brooklyn Heights

6 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | AUGUST 2019

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Contents

72

78

MONEY MATTERS 72 Women And Cars: A Happy Marriage

HEALTH & WELLNESS 76 Love And Respect Your Life 78 Staying Healthy On The Go 80 Are Distractions Eating Your Life

84

FOOD & DRINK 82 Russian Samovar Restaurant & Piano Bar 84 Ben & Jack’s Steakhouse: A Rare Find!

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT 86 88 90 92 95

On Stage: Bat Out Of Hell On The Big Screen On The Small Screen Le Poisson Rouge: Celebrating A Decade Of Music Morrison Hotel Gallery: Fine Photography Comes To Life

86

NEW YORK, NY 98 100 102 104

Entrepreneur’s Corner: Ellen Kodadek My New York Story: Chamique Holdsclaw Paws Down, Tails Up Time Out With…Randy Zelin

8 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | AUGUST 2019

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fun — S A R AT O G A C O U N T Y, N Y —

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From our famous mineral springs and world class horse racing, to great golf, polo, a fun arts scene and national historic sites, it’s all waiting here for you. Plus so many places to eat, drink and make merry. Choose from lovely country inns, bed and breakfasts, full service resorts, or your favorite chain hotel. You’ll find us so very accommodating.

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ISSN 2474-770X

OUR CONTRIBUTORS LAURIE BAIN WILSON As a travel writer for many years, Laurie has crisscrossed the globe. She is a travel correspondent at The Boston Globe, writing about New England’s stunning ocean and mountain destinations, as well as other dreamy spots on the planet. As the travel editor for ten years at Bridal Guide magazine, Laurie covered the world’s most romantic destinations and sexiest resorts. When she’s not writing about travel, she’s covering food and is a frequent contributor to OpenTable.com and Chowhound.com. She sometimes combines her two loves and writes about the trending culinary travel scene. She has written hundreds of travel articles for outlets including TravelChannel.com, CNN.com, and many others. She is also the author of a handful of travel guidebooks and co-authored several Murder, She Wrote novels. GERRIE SUMMERS Currently working on a novel, Gerrie admits that she enjoys creating worlds, but traveling the world is even better! As a travel writer, she has been to five continents (Australia and Antartica get ready) and too many countries to count and has written for Foxnews.com, Luxury Living, For The Bride, Everett Potter’s Travel Report, About.com Luxury Travel, Trip Savvy and others. She currently writes the lifestyle and travel blogs Summers Retreat and The Tranquil Traveler. Gerrie has covered a wide range of beats. She was the founding editor of Word Up! magazine, beauty editor and travel columnist for Today’s Black Woman and About’s Multicultural Beauty Expert. Her articles have appeared in numerous publications including Real Health, Essence, Billboard, and the NY Daily News. Gerrie aka YogiGer is a yoga, meditation and qigong enthusiast who now combines her love for travel with health, specializing in wellness, spas and retreats. ANNIE WATT New York Lifestyles Magazine’s intrepid chief photographer possesses talent, energy, and a capacity for capturing the perfect image. Annie’s passion for the arts and impressive academics, won her a fouryear full tuition scholarship at the School of Visual Arts in Manhattan and the opportunity to study with such notable artists as Chuck Close and Milton Glazer. She continued her education and received a teaching certification from Hunter College and pursued a Masters in Art History at Alfred University in Scotland. One of Annie’s biggest assets as a photographer is that her client’s trust her to present them in the most flattering light. Her photography style has an emphasis on capturing candid photos besides the posed shots. But it’s her personal instructions which create flattering photos and has garnered her the reputation as the Posing Expert. Annie’s personal success in a competitive business has given her the greatest challenge: the creation of a new photo agency to serve the needs of the industry and the media. For more information on Annie Watt, visit anniewatt.com.

Vol. 5 #6 | August 2019 President / Publisher BILL MASON Editor-in-Chief Patricia Canole

Art Director Eric Duncan

Entertainment Jenny Peters, Lori Zelenko

Style Gerrie Summers

Features Ruth J. Katz

Special Projects Norah Bradford

Lifestyle Griffin Miller

Chief Photographer Annie Watt

Contributing Writers Maxine Albert, Natasha Bazika, Bailey Beckett AP Connolly, Elizabeth Darwen, Peter Elston, Lee Gabay, JP Giacalone Anne Grady, Jenna Guarneri, Chamique Holdsclaw, TJ Johnson Dr. Peter Kalellis, Ellen Kodadek, Robb Lanham, Kelley Mason Margaret Mason, Tina & TJ Mulqueen, Jeremy Murphy, Ellis Nassour Anne Raso, Mike & Nava Raviv, Will Reed, Cecilia Ruane Jeff & Stephanie Sylva, Laurie Bain Wilson, Stephen Wood, Stacey Zable Executive Vice President of Sales LYLE SELTZER Sales Bill Mason Sr. - Director of New Business Development Brett Caldwell - Director of Integrated Sales and Marketing John Miller - Director of Sales - Travel Michael Stulmaker - Director of Sales - Real Estate Director of Operations Kurt Nesheim

Advertising BLUE VISTA 725

Internet Presence Scott Cuollo, Richard Austin

Magazine Distribution The Garrido Group

New York Sales Office (646) 259-2651

Editorial/Sales Fax (212) 202-4888

For 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. ©2019 New York Lifestyles Magazine

Cover photo courtesy of Shutterstock

10 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | AUGUST 2019


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FROM THE PUBLISHER

Check us out on the web!

ust coming off a record setting hot and sticky month of July heat, I figure we should relax and cool down for the last full month of Summer. Three of my favorite topics that come to mind easily are food, music and movies. After reading our six-page cover feature, The 30 Best Burgers in Town you’ll find old favorites as well as new places to discover. So, go ahead—take a break and treat yourself to New York’s most deliciously stacked creations of perfection. My favorite pit-stop to satisfy my carnivorous cravings is Bar Bacon at Union Square, a truly incredible place to visit. Since we are on the foodie subject, don’t forget New York City’s Restaurant Week is in progress through August 16th. It is a celebration of dining out in over 370 restaurants with special deals on a pre-fixe menu for all to enjoy.

Read Any of Our Issues In Digital Format on:

Issuu.com | Apple Newsstand | Our Website

For the music lovers I have several suggestions for the month of August. You should try the All Picnic Performances at Bryant Park in the evenings. It’s free to the public and to make it even more inviting, picnic blankets are loaned to 250 audience members to spread out on the lawn to enjoy the experience of New York City’s incredible performing arts. Bordering the lawn are many supersized games and activities for the whole family to enjoy. There are no tickets or lines; it’s come and go as you please. There are also plenty of unbelievable concert performers coming to town. Get set to see Bryan Adams and Billy Idol at Jones Beach and The Jonas Brothers or Bill Joel at “The Garden”. Across the East River at the Barclay’s Center you can see packed house headliner performances like The Backstreet Boys, KISS, and Shawn Mendes. So, get tickets and enjoy! But it’s just the beginning, folks! Why watch Netflix when there are so many places around town with free movies! Here are a couple of hot spots you should try out. The Central Park Conservancy Film Festival is being held on August 13th – 15th. Gates open at 6:30 pm located between Sheep Meadow and East 72nd Street. How about watching Willy Wonky and the Chocolate Factory on the flight deck of the Intrepid underneath the stars soaking in the views of the Hudson River and the city skyline. Doors open at 7:00 pm and close at 8:30 pm. These are just samplings. There are so many great events happening all the time—just take the time to enjoy the experiences to the fullest. I look forward to hearing from you with comments, suggestions and what you would like to see on the pages of New York Lifestyles and Pet Lifestyles magazines. See you in the Fall...

-Bill Mason

Publisher

12 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | AUGUST 2019

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

(646) 259-2651


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FEATURES

THE BEST BURGERS IN TOWN MUCH MORE THAN MEAT ON A BUN By Natasha Bazika, Patricia Canole, JP Giacalone, Chris Michael, Cecilia Ruane

hen you think of a truly all-American food, nothing comes to mind more than the burger. This simple sandwich of ground beef on a bun allows for considerable creativity—and believe us there are so many variations out there, each more delicious than the last. To celebrate this all-American dish, our intrepid editorial burger squad chomped and chewed their way through dozens of patties from decades-old establishments to newer spots around town. We even covered the Outer Boroughs and were surprised at the findings. Favorites ranged from relatively bare versions found at burger joints to ones dressed with upmarket condiments and local farm cheeses at prominent chef-owned restaurants. Whether you like it medium-rare or welldone, sink in and enjoy!

AUGUST 2019 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 15


BAR BACON

AU CHEVAL

Lower Manhattan The favorite Chicago burger joint, Au Cheval, finally graced New York with a sister property, serving the same elevated burgers and American dishes the original restaurant is well known for. Since opening early this year, New Yorkers and visitors have lined up for over three hours waiting to wrap their hands around the delicious creations. The atmosphere is laid back. You’ll see diners engaging in light conversation, biting into burgers and sipping whiskey all in a welldressed dining room with dim lighting. As for the menu, the star of the show is the cheeseburger. Add egg and bacon, and you will have a great burger in your hands. Info: auchevaldiner.com. -Natasha Bazika

Hell’s Kitchen Ask me if we if bacon makes everything taste so much better. I’ll always say, “Yes!” There can never be too much bacon— especially when it’s paired with beef! The bacon bonanza is the brainchild of chef Peter Sherman, who spent time working in kitchens with the likes of David Bouley and April Bloomfield before leaving the beautiful dining world to focus on his dream of opening a gastropub. Now with a second BarBacon in Union Square, guests enjoy a menu of comfort classics flecked with a bacon bent. The All Day Sausage, Bacon, Egg, and Cheese looks like a gigantic burger instead of the soft creations from a corner bodega. Then there are the burgers that are always a big hit. Sink your teeth into our favorite honey-mustard glazed bacon burger dressed up with butter pickles on a pretzel bun. Info: barbacon.com. -Patricia Canole

BLACKSTONE BAR AND GRILL

THE BEATRICE INN

West Village Chef Angie Mar, the queen of meats, serves a 45-day dry-aged burger that we can’t stop dreaming about. If you’ve ever been to The Beatrice Inn, you know the meat is good—all the time— but this burger is a step above the rest. Her vision of a burger consists of a meat patty topped with red wine caramelized onions and melted D’Affinois—a French double-cream soft cheese made from cows milk—served on a brioche bun. It doesn’t get more Beatrice Inn than that. You’ll want to be sure to get a few friends together to take advantage of dining in the classic upscale West Village restaurant. Info: beatriceinn.com. -NB

BAR SARDINE

West Village When visiting this laid back West Village gastropub order The Fedora Burger, trust us you won’t be sorry. The burger was first created for a one-night event at their neighboring restaurant, Fedora, which then became an exclusive menu item at Bar Sardine. The burger consists of a chuck and brisket patty, topped with melted smoked cheddar cheese, frizzled potato strings and slathered in sweet and smoky barbecue mayo sandwiched between a flattened and grilled potato roll. In addition to a great burger, Bar Sardine is perfect for lazy summer afternoons thanks to the large retractable doors that open for an al fresco dining feel. Info:. barsardinenyc.com. -NB

BELCAMPO

Hudson Yards Leading California butcher Anya Fernald has revolutionized farm-to-table dining in her home state of California and has brought her talents East to the Hudson Yards. Belcampo’s menu features rustic cuisine and classics like the half-pound grass-fed, 28-day dry-aged beef burger dressed with white cheddar, caramelized onions, butter lettuce and topped with a brioche. Need we say more? It’s simply delicious. Info: becampo.com. -Cecilia Ruane

16 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | AUGUST 2019

Riverdale, The Bronx Opened in 2014 on the former site of longtime favorite Hudson’s Bar, Blackstone continues the tradition with its intimate and comfortable feel. You might say it’s Riverdale’s answer to Boston’s Cheers! Everyone knows you here. The menu features your favorite pub grub including burgers. We recommend the Blackstone Bleu Burger an 8-ounce wonder smothered with bourbon barbecue sauce, bleu cheese crumbles, crispy bacon on a Brioche bun. Add some hand cut shoestring fries and you’re set. Be sure to check out their weekday Happy Hour, too. Info: blackstonebargrill.com. -CR


BURGER JOINT

Midtown West The Burger Joint is said to have somewhat of a cult following for its juicy burgers. Hidden in the Parker New York hotel, the swanky space provides diners with a unique ‘hole in the wall’ dining experience, complete with a simple menu complimented by milkshakes, wines, and beers. Even though the hotel is equally deserving of your attention, we’re drawn to the classic cheeseburger with tomato, lettuce, onion, pickles, bacon and a 5-ounce meat patty. Don’t forget to order a side of fries for an authentic classic American burger experience. Queues stretching out the door to the hotel reception will convince you. Info: burgerjointny.com. -NB

DELMONICO’S STEAKHOUSE

DB BISTRO MODERNE

Midtown Daniel Boulud’s db Bistro Moderne is one of New York’s top-rated bistros and home to the DB Burger. This burger arrives tall and plump. The meat patty alone is over 3 inches thick and is made of delicious sirloin, braised short ribs, foie gras, and black truffle. The monster patty is topped with lettuce, tomato and served on a Parmesan bun with a side of perfectly crunchy pomme frites. It’s the stuff of legends—and there is no better reason to indulge in the $35 burger from the famed chef Daniel Boulud. Info: dbbistro.com/nyc. -NB

Financial District Here is an establishment of many firsts. It was the first to have printed menus, and it was considered the start of luxury dining. The restaurant’s basement even had the most extensive wine cellar in the city, holding over 1,000 bottles of the world’s finest wines. It is also home to many classic dishes, such as the Eggs Benedict and Baked Alaska. Today, the Benedict Burger is the invention we’re excited about. The open-faced burger includes a thick meat patty, bacon and a farm-fresh egg all drizzled with truffle hollandaise and served on a toasted English muffin. Whether you’re going for a power lunch or upscale dinner, the elegant dining room is a perfect atmosphere. Info:delmonicos.com. -NB

DONOVAN’S PUB

Woodside, Queens While Woodside bustles on and Flushing’s No. 7 continues its rounds to and from Manhattan, this Irish pub stays the same. And that’s a good thing! Old-timers line the front bar, while the wood-paneled dining room—made all the more classic with stained-glass adornment—recalls an age of authentic family dining. IrishAmerican pub fare like steak, roast beef, and Shepherd’s Pie dominate the menu, but it’s the renowned Woodsider Burger that justifies the trek: loosely formed from freshly ground New York strip, broiled to a perfect char and adorned with lettuce and tomato. Sharp Cheddar Cheese and Bacon make it beefy perfection. In a city with burgers of every creation, it’s nice to know that this is still one of the best. Info: donovanspub.com. -PC

FARM TO BURGER

DUFFY’S

West Brighton, Staten Island Ferry over to this neighborhood staple that’s been serving incredibly delicious cheeseburgers for 28 years. Their motto: If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it! This jukebox sound-tracked staple has been serving no-frills cheeseburger with pride. A halfpound patty with American cheese on both sides fired on the grill and wedged between an English muffin to soak up every last drop of meaty juice. Simplicity at its best! Info: 718-447-9276. -CR

Midtown West Created by the Yves Jadot Restaurant Group, this restaurant focuses on delivering wholesome products to diners, including meat patties from smaller grassfed producers and organic vegetables. Located in the Aliz Hotel Times Square, it offers guests a classic atmosphere surrounded by black banquettes, large landscape paintings, and crisp white chairs. While all of their burgers are good, the Great Jones Burger is the one on our radar. The 8-ounce Kobe beef burger is crusted with peppercorn and topped with green olive salsa verde, horseradish cheddar, lettuce, tomato, and onion. Info: alizhotel.com/restaurant. -NB

AUGUST 2019 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 17


GRAMERCY TAVERN

FIVE NAPKIN BURGER

Hell’s Kitchen The Original Five Napkin Burger comes on a soft white bun and is 10-ounces of ground chuck, giving it that steaklike texture many burger aficionados dream of--nicely charred. We enjoyed it because rather than a slice of raw onion, Five Napkin serves up caramelized onions for a touch of sweetness and adds melted Gruyère for even more flavor. You’ll return! And with three other Manhattan locations, it’s hard to say “no” to such elaborate indulgence. Info: 5napkinburger.com. -Chris Michael

JACKSON HOLE

East Elmhurst, Queens You might recognize the Queens location from the film Goodfellas (it’s featured in the early scene when Paulie and Jimmy steal the truck from the diner’s parking lot). It appears as its original 1952 version, Airline Diner. In 1972, it became Jackson Hole, where it remains a few minutes away from LaGuardia Airport. The familyowned diner—with branches throughout the metro area—looks about as old-school Americana as you can get, and the food is just as classic. Its juicy cheeseburgers are loaded with all the fixings—and done to perfection. Info: jacksonholeburgers.com. -CM

Flatiron District Opened in 1994, Gramercy Tavern is one of New York’s most beloved restaurants. Since its opening, it’s earned nearly every award imaginable. If that’s not reason enough to go, there is a Tavern Burger on the menu that will further convince you. The juicy burger includes a thick housechopped patty of chuck, brisket, and short rib, grilled over hardwood giving it a smoky flavor—same as the bacon. It is then blanketed in melted Cabot Cheddar and served on a house-made potato bun with chips on the side. Enjoy this creation in a contemporary American setting in the heart of the Flatiron District. Info: gramercytavern.com -NB

HARD ROCK CAFÉ NEW YORK

Times Square When you hear the words Hard Rock Café, what comes to mind? The neon guitar? World-class memorabilia? They’re all correct. The Hard Rock Cafe Times Square New York has an astonishing collection of rock relics, which you can see as you stroll by. However, the real crowd pleaser here are the Steak Burgers, created with a proprietary beef blend to produce the most flavorful burger possible. And if you want to add some glitz and glamour to your dining experience, then order the newest addition to the menu—the 24-Karat Gold Leaf Steak Burger™. Gold leaf (it’s edible) tops a half pound of beefy goodness—perfectly prepared with Tillamook Cheddar Cheese, leaf lettuce, vine-ripened tomato, and red onion. Through the Hard Rock Heals Foundation, a portion of all proceeds from the sale of 24-Karat Gold Leaf Steak Burger™ will benefit Action Against Hunger to assist in the fight against world hunger. Info: hardrockcafe.com. -PC

JG MELON

West Village This restaurant had its 30th anniversary long before Shake Shack, and today, several locations can be found on Manhattan island. Due to its famed past and present, the restaurant will most likely always be busy, but trust us, this burger haunt is worth a visit. Savor a cheeseburger made with a hearty beef blend patty—cooked to juicy perfection— topped with rashers of bacon and melted cheese between two slightly toasted buns. Don’t forget to order a side of cottage fries to accompany your classic American burger experience. Info: jgmelonnyc.com. -NB

18 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | AUGUST 2019

KEENS STEAKHOUSE

Midtown West Since 1885, Keens has been serving incredible fare for New Yorkers and visitors. However, few even notice two of its most charming rooms off the main dining room: the bar and the pub, which offer guests a more casual menu. The star here is, of course, the burger—a thick half-pound patty made with dryaged beef resulting in a vibrant and juicy burger. Top yours with a slice of onion and cheese. That’s all that is needed. Info: keens.com. -CM


LITTLE OWL

L’ATELIER DE JOËL ROBUCHON

Chelsea If you prefer the finer things in life or looking for a splurge, head to L’Atelier de Joël Robuchon, the opulent French restaurant in Chelsea. In addition to an extensive menu of French classics, the Le Burger is a standout we couldn’t wait to try. While the burger is more of a slider, diners will still enjoy two succulent beef patties topped with foie gras and caramelized peppers. The warm, crispy French fries on the side complete this extravagance. Info: joelrobuchonusa.com. -NB

LA VENTURA

West Village Ryan Burke and the rest of the team behind The Rum House brings casual, coastal vibes to their latest West Village addition, La Ventura. The all-day café is a lightfilled, chic space, covered with plants, wooden tones, and exposed brick walls. Diners can relax and channel their inner beach town resident right in the heart of Manhattan. As for the food, La Ventura serves global coastal cuisine, including a melt in the mouth chefs lamb burger. The burger is made of a thick, tender lamb patty topped with crispy green lettuce, a slither of thick-cut tomato and drizzled with a zesty sauce. La Ventura is also known for its inventive cocktail menus, such as the Vitti, Scorpion, and La Playa. Info: laventuranyc.com. -NB

Greenwich Village It may seem like there are just too many delicious Bacon Cheeseburgers to be had in New York City. But rarely have I seen one as picture perfect as this one from Joey Campanaro at The Little Owl. It’s made from fresh short rib and brisket from Manhattan’s legendary meat purveyor Pat La Freida Meats (who also provides the bacon). Campanaro forms the eight-ounce mound of beef to ensure that each bite is heaven on earth along with American cheese and dressed with bacon. The burger is beautifully served on a house-baked bun with a hint of molasses and accompanied with fresh pickles. This has got to be on everyone’s bucket list! Info: littleowl.com. -PC

MINETTA TAVERN

LOBEL’S

Yankee Stadium, The Bronx Forget the peanuts and Cracker Jacks. It’s all about the beef at Yankee Stadium. Venerated meat purveyor, Lobel’s, has been doing what they do best and are most noted for their Steak Sandwich which is carved by hand, stacked au jus on a soft bun. It’s truly a fan favorite. But there’s more! Next time you’re at the House that Ruth Built, opt for some of the new offerings including the Meatloaf Burger loaded with cheese and fried onions and gravy. A home run, indeed! Info: lobels. com/yankees. -JP Giacalone

THE LONG ISLAND BAR

Cobble Hill, Brooklyn What was once a stronghold for Brooklyn’s longshoremen who worked the waterfront has been transformed into a classic vintage bar serving fabulous cocktails and a menu spotlighting the LI Burger—a pleasing burger that looks somewhat simple--but far from it. The cheese, you see, is house-made American, those double patties are dry-aged to offer up great taste. And if you don’t get an order of those fried cheese curds and wash it all down with a Long Island Gimlet, you’ll be sorry. Info: thelongislandbar.com. -JPG

West Village Almost every New Yorker has heard of Minetta Tavern. Opened in 1937, this American haunt was frequented by various creatives including Ernest Hemingway, Ezra Pound, E.E Cummings, and Dylan Thomas. Although we’re not entirely sure what drew them to the tavern, we can speculate it was the famous Black Label Burger. Made of the highest quality blend of dry-aged beef cuts—a well-kept secret of Pat LaFrieda—the meat patty is delicious and fulfilling. It is then topped with caramelized onions, sandwiched between a sesame-studded brioche bun and served with a side of pomme frites. The tavern has helmed many names over the years, including the city’s best steakhouse. Even if you don’t go for the burger, it is worth a visit. Info:minettatavernny.com. -NB

AUGUST 2019 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 19


MISTER PARADISE

East Village If you’ve wandered around the East Village, you would have noticed the vibrant neon green sign and green façade. That is Mister Paradise, a swanky cocktail bar with craft cocktails sporting playful names and serving elevated bar bites in a chic space. When you enter, you might notice a red door toward the back. This leads to the red room, where you can have a cocktail in a more intimate setting. Be sure to order the cheeseburger, a simple classic, with caramelized onions, bacon-infused American cheese, and pickles served on a potato roll. Info:. misterparadisenyc.com. -NB

PJ CLARKE’S

Midtown East On the menu since the 1930s, the Bacon Cheeseburger was dubbed the “Cadillac of Hamburgers” by icon Nat King Cole. Decades later, it never disappoints. New Yorkers refer to it as the “Cadillac” at this flagship restaurant and its two other Manhattan outposts. With nearly 400 sold each day, you could say nothing much has changed in the recipe. The beef is chopped for the restaurant into a perfect lean to fat ratio and hand-formed into six-ounce patties using a ring mold. The “Cadillac” comes standard with Double Smoked Country Bacon, American cheese, Bibb lettuce, plum tomatoes, a kosher dill pickle spear on a bun. Info: pjclarkes.com. -JPG

NOBODY TOLD ME

PETER LUGER STEAK HOUSE

Upper West Side It’s the newest cocktail lounge on the Upper West Side from former chef de cuisine of Dovetail, Nick Pfanerstill and long-time friend Alberto Miranda. Apart from the chic interiors, Nobody Told Me draws in diners with their menu of reimagined bar favorites, including the Nobody Burger. Diners can expect to see two patties sandwiched between a Hawaiian roll, with pickles and cheddar, topped with special sauce and served with fries. While you’re there, dive into the creative cocktail menu, while sitting in a casual restaurant atmosphere, ideal for a summer afternoon. Info: nobodytoldme.nyc. -NB

Williamsburg, Brooklyn Although a slew of copycats has prospered over the years, none have captured the elusive charm of this iconic beer hallstyle eatery, with well-worn wooden floors and tables. The Luger Burger with Cheese appears only at lunch without all the bells and whistles. Remember, Peter Luger has been meat biz since 1887, and its rich, half-pound burger, made from porterhouse and prime chuck is worth a long lunch. Burgers are molded and then placed on the high-temperature broilers— used for the steaks—until they develop a dark crust. Opt also to have some cheese and thick-cut bacon. You’ve arrived at steakhouse nirvana. Info: peterluger.com. -CM

SUPERIORITY BURGER

21 CLUB

East Village When you think all-vegetarian fast food joint, we can bet the next thing that comes to mind is anything but a burger, but at Superiority Burger, they serve just that. The compact, all-vegetarian fastfood establishment is recognizable by its white subway tiles adorning the walls and of course its signature burger; The Superiority Burger. Made with a quinoabased patty topped with muenster, honey mustard, and spices on a squishy bun, this all-vegetarian burger is delicious enough for us to consider giving up meat. If you’re passing through the East Village, go check it out, you won’t be sorry. Info: superiorityburger.com. -NB

20 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | AUGUST 2019

Midtown West Enjoy an elevated burger inside Manhattan’s legendary Speakeasy—a bar and restaurant where business casual is highly recommended. The 21 Club is packed with history, a celebrity clientele, jockey memorabilia, and a closet of secrets—which makes us more enticed to go. The Bar room, in particular, is a step back in time to the 1930s with whimsical gifts from celebrities, presidents and sports stars—dangling above your head. When you peruse through the menu, pay close attention to the 21 Burger, a classic hamburger, with pickled relish and served on a brioche bun with fries on the side. Info: 21club.com. -NB


new for

2019!

RUNAWAY TRAM

You thought the boardwalk tramcar was out of control, wait until you ride this family friendly coaster!

Go to MoreysPiers.com for more information on TripAdvisor’s Number 1 Destination on the Rise.

26 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | JUNE/JULY 2019


STYLE

5 EASY PIECES

LUXURY LUGGAGE FROM T. ANTHONY By Lillian Langtry

aunched in 1946, Theodore Anthony’s stylish and durable luggage quickly became the travel companion of choice for British and Hollywood royalty, not to mention American Presidents. A must-have for elite globetrotters today, T. Anthony continues to craft its suitcases with hardwood frames and solid brass hardware, as well as soft-shelled canvas and leather options. The high-end luggage line includes a wide range of classic duffle bags, t-otes, suitcases and garment bags. T. Anthony also offers a large range of accessories including Shave Kits, stylish Leather Passport Covers, sleek Tie Cases, and other must-haves—all made from the finest Italian leather. Here, our picks for your summer sojourns.

THE DUFFLE With luxurious leather detailing, the stylish canvas and leather carry on is ideal for shorter trips or weekend getaways. Lightweight and spacious, it has a removable shoulder strap and two interior zip pockets. This duffle is a customer favorite and a perfect gift item for travelers of any kind.

THE TOTE The quintessential canvas tote trimmed in rich leather is ideal for travel, leisure or shopping. It is lightweight and its numerous compartments offer great organization. It has a large zippered main compartment, four outside open pockets and two inside zip pockets for plenty of storage.

THE SUITCASE

THE GARMENT BAG

THE JEWELRY CASE

Ideal for long trips, this case has four wheels for 360 degree rotation and effortless movement. It has one large, deep packing compartment in addition to three interior zippered compartments and two exterior zippered compartments. Made with ultra tough 3-ply luggage canvas and full grain leather trim, it has two leather handles and a hidden, telescoping handle. A luggage tag and combination lock are also included for easy identification.

Sophisticated and in style, the canvas and leather carry-on garment bag accommodates up to five suits or dresses with the ability to use your own hangers. There are two large exterior zip pockets for shirts, shoes and other accessories which can be securely stowed for travel. This smart bag also has a patented locking hanger fixture, two large outside zip pockets, a removable and adjustable shoulder strap, and a door hook.

Go ahead, take your jewelry with you in this beautiful Travel Zip Jewel Case made from the finest Italian leather. The interior features a ring bar, earring bar, and 3 zippered compartments. The case is conveniently small enough to fit in a hotel safe and comes in a beautiful burgundy red color.

22 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | AUGUST 2019

For more information on T. Anthony, visit tanthony.com. •


The perfect hotel to create exceptional experiences for your meeting, wedding or travel needs! Enjoy European elegance in the heart of Saratoga Springs and footsteps from the best shopping, sightseeing and destination amenities that only Saratoga and Pavilion Grand Hotel can offer...

an experience like no other!

BLUE PEACOCK BISTRO • De‘lite’ful Breakfast and Espresso • Assorted Lunch Paninis and Fare • Artisan Cheese Platters and Exotic Meats • Wine by the Glass or Bottle MAKE ME FABULOUS SALON & SPA • Nationally Recognized Makeup and Hair Stylists • Event Styling and Bridal Services • Lashes, Waxing, Color and Cuts • Massage Therapies and Body Treatments FISH AT 30 LAKE RESTAURANT • Seasonal Day-Boat Fish • Raw Bar • Hand Crafted Cocktails & Happy Hour • Private Events and Roof Top Catering

DURING YOUR STAY COME AND EXPLORE

The

Businesses of Pavilion Square ALL CONVENIENTLY LOCATED ON SITE

30 LAKE AVENUE, SARATOGA SPRINGS, NEW YORK 12866 • (518) 583-2727 WWW.PAVILIONGRANDHOTEL.COM ASK FOR “NY LIFESTYLE MAG” PROMO WHEN YOU BOOK!


STYLE

BEAT THE HEAT By Gerrie Summers

an you believe it? Fall is almost here, so make sure to enjoy those last few weeks of summer. We’ve got must-haves to make your summer cooler, safer, comfortable and stylish! HYDROCHIC REV AIR

Reverse-Air Hair Dryer No one wants to use a blow dryer and flat iron on a hot and humid day. It’s stifling and exhausting. RevAir uses Reverse Air technology to dry the hair, while smoothing and straightening strands at the same time. It uses 100 degrees less heat than most hair dryers (much better, especially when its 100 degrees outside!) and works on all hair types. The nozzle creates a reverse hair air tunnel that surrounds a section of hair from root to tip with heated air to naturally dry and straighten. You don’t need to use a brush, or, in some cases, a flat iron. Info: myrevair.com.

Petal Cap Sleeve Swim & Sport Shirt/Performance Wave Runner Swim Tights HydroChic UV Activewear is a new signature line of exclusive designs printed on chlorine-proof Italian fabrics that stand up to damaging chlorinated water. Performance Wave Runner Swim Tights are swim leggings that provide UPF 50 protection and coverage and can be worn in the pool, at the gym, on the beach, as well as biking, hiking and other outdoor activities because the fabric is comfortable and light. The Petal Cap Sleeve Swim & Sport Shirt has cap sleeves to protect the shoulders from the sun. Both have pockets for room keys, money, etc. and are chlorine-proof and quick-drying. Info: hydrochic.com.

BYOOT COMPANY Byoot Suit If you prefer one-piece swimsuits to bikinis, you eventually run into a bit of a problem. Ever tried to use a public beach bathroom while wearing one? It’s really annoying to have to pull down a wet and tight swimsuit. Byoot Company makes onepiece bathing suits that provide bathroom-break access. The suits have two buttons on each side of the hip region providing an easy way to use the bathroom and then easily button back up. The Byoot Suit is made with fast drying, moisture wicking four-way stretch fabric and comes in a variety of styles and designs. Genius! Info: byootcompany.com. 24 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | AUGUST 2019

KNOURS Double Duty Mist Double Duty Mist really does do double duty, as a moisturizing tonic or a clarifying, calming toner. Its formula is split into two layers for a customizable skin care product that gives your skin what it needs. Use without shaking the bottle when your skin feels sensitive, red and irritated or oily and clogged, and the Aloe Vera waterbased bottom layer will clarify and soothe the skin. Shake the bottle and the oilrich top layer will give dry, rough, or dehydrated skin the nourishing moisture it craves. And if your skin is normal, just a quick shake will give you a mix of oils and toning herbs to provide both a hydrating and balancing treatment. Info: knours.net.


RYKA

SKEEM DESIGN

KUT FROM THE KLOTH

Hydro Sport Water Shoe This water shoe/trainer from womenonly sports company Ryka, is designed for a woman’s unique foot shape and build, but also to work well on wet surfaces. The shoe is perfect for water aerobics, as well as hiking on slippery, wet trails. It has several features including a speed lace system with toggle to make the shoe easy to put on and take off, a quick dry and chlorine-friendly upper, and multi-port drainage system at the bottom. Info: ryka.com.

Citronella Verbena Body Spray It’s still being debated how well natural bug repellents work to repel mosquitoes. But if the idea of spraying your body with toxic chemicals to avoid bites, citronella oil is a safe solution; it works by masking the smells biting insects are attracted to. Citronella Verbena Body Spray contains citronella oil, as well as lime, soybean and castor oils to help keep bugs at bay. Info: skeemshop.com.

Summer Vibes Collection If you’re looking for a tried and true casual (or even dressy) summer look, jeans and a jean jacket are a favorite fashion pair. Summer Vibes Collection, a collaboration with The Charming Olive lifestyle blogger Adelina Perrin, features timeless summer basics. Pair the Connie Slim Fit Ankle Skinny jeans with the summer white Kara Crop Denim Jacket. Both are made with a comfortable, stretchy cotton blend that is machine washable. Info: kutfromthekloth.com.

LIME LIFE BY ALCONE

WHITE MOUNTAIN

Perfect Sunscreen SPF 30 Organic, plant-based ingredients that moisturize and protect the skin from UV rays and fight the signs of aging are what make Perfect Sunscreen SPF 30 a favorite. The active ingredient is zinc oxide for UVA/B protection. It also contains chicory root to mimic the benefits of retinol (for a firming effect), vitamin B3 reduces the appearance of dark spots, uneven skin tone, fine lines and wrinkles over time. It can be worn alone or to prime the skin before makeup application. Info: limelifebyalcone.com.

Blast Leather Sandal These sandals are way too cute to be comfortable, right? Wrong. Blast Leather Sandal is surprisingly comfortable due to a cushioned “suedette” foot bed. The leather thong sandal is embellished with multicolored beads and sequins—great for a casual chic outfit worn at a beach resort restaurant or summer party. The sandal is available in four colors. Info: whitemountainshoes.com.

EMBRYOLISSE LABORATOIRES Lait-Creme Concentré It has been a cult classic among French women and dermatologists for years. Lait-Crème Concentré made its way across the pond via makeup artists from the Paris fashion shows, where a tube of the prized cream could be found backstage in their makeup kits. Apparently a tube of this cream sells every five seconds around the world. Mas bien sûr! The emollient shea butter and plant oils nourish the skin, repairing the lipid barrier, and increase elasticity, firming and toning the skin. Lait-Crème Concentré is available in a limited edition NYC-themed packaging. This limited edition is sold exclusively on the company’s new US website. Info: us.embryolisse.com. •

AUGUST 2019 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 25


STYLE

LIFE & STYLE

LAID BACK AND LIVING IT By Griffin Miller

n the last sweet weeks of summer—before stowing away the grill, patio furniture and Beach Boys CDs (and coming face to face with the contentious onslaught of back-to-school shopping)— pleasure comes by simply letting the al fresco good times roll with weekend outings, twilight gatherings and uncensored escapism, wholesome or otherwise. Seriously, who deserves a little pre-Labor Day pick-me-up more than us? So feel free to browse my end-of-summer picks that— hopefully—will make your transition into autumn all kinds of carefree!

CITY HAUL

There’s that mandatory meeting… then a birthday luncheon (gift required)… Starbucks for an hour of memos and emails… before the grand finale yoga class. And reminder: pick up milk on the way home. With an aversion to multiple bags, my favorite new find is SportsChic’s Vegan Gym Tote—all business (padded laptop space), except where it’s glam (stylish colors and laced pebble grain), with enough casual panache and space to make a yoga mat or tennis racket feel at home. Lightweight, it features enough pockets (insulated and otherwise) to keep me and my mega stash of stuff within reach. Vanity plus: Not a day goes by when someone doesn’t ask me how to score this bag! Info: shopsportschic.com.

LOCK & LOAD

My days of repurposing hotel bathroom glasses and washcloths into makeshift cosmetic organizers are kaput. The Traveler from Beauty and the Box has upended road warrior organization with a sleek tray configured for a trio of pop-up boxes to hold everything from lipsticks to mascara to makeup brushes. Eyeshadow, perfume, meds, etc. also have ample room, and since the boxes fold flat in the tray, The Traveler is carry-on friendly. As for those with space to spare, I recommend The Traveler Deluxe, an expanded version that comes in a stylish zippered pouch containing a stand-alone mirror and makeup case. FYI: Rather than wait for my next trip, mine is set up on my dresser! Info: beautyandthebox.com. 26 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | AUGUST 2019

AS YOU LIKE IT, DIONYSUS!

While not all of us have the skills of a sommelier, when it comes to wine we certainly have our preferences. Oh, and we love sharing our favorites with like-minded enthusiasts. So, what if you could create a personalized blend—one filled with characteristics matching your palette’s ideal? That’s what Blendtique is all about, starting with a kit that comes with four varieties of wine. Using the enclosed measuring pipette and flask—and tapping into the company’s descriptive library—the wine of your dreams (with customized label, also designed by you) is just 3 to 4 weeks away from fulfillment. “Salute!” Info: blentique.com.

TAKING THE PLUNGE

To me, swimsuits have always followed Fran Lebowitz’s sartorial mantra about clothes having two objectives: to make you look cute and to hide figure flaws. SunSkyns does both with all kinds of seaside panache. Ageless, timeless and with a thumbs up to surfer babe chic, SunSkyns front zipper allows you to keep “cleavage revelation” in your comfort zone. Made of lightweight SPF 50+ fabric with removable bra cups so that even the acutely un-athletic (sadly me) can appear sexy-sporty on the beach or around the pool. Also in the collection are SunSkyns skirts and jackets. Info: sunskyns.com.


PROFILE IN STYLE

Reasons to go to a spa: 1) To hydrate; 2) To get massaged; 3) To indulge in creams and lotions that soothe and nurture; 4) To get wrapped up to firm up; 5) To rejuvenate. Interestingly, all the above are part of what you get from SKINEEZ® Miracle Compression Capris. And don’t think that compression means tight. These are the silkiest, comfiest capris I’ve ever worn! I’m getting a micromassage laced with vitamin E, Shea Butter, Rose Hip Oil and Apricot Kernel Oil. The results—clocking in at about an hour—are noticeably softer (and firmer) skin. Info: myskineez.com.

PURE RELAXATION

Shocker: Nearly every blog and website will, at one time or another, run advice on how to pull the plug on stress. Meditation, medication, flavored water, deep breathing, downsizing, working out, going out… staying in… the list goes on. For me, it’s lighting a candle, pouring a drink and embracing a soothing scent. And yes, I’m a sucker for lavender, which is why Skinny & Co.’s Lavender Body Melt has managed to top my “de-stressification” list. Slide it on after a bath or right before bed (it’s said to be a natural sleepinducer with the ability to heal and correct imperfections). Spiked with coconut and almond oil along with super-hydrating essential oils, this LBM is a definite keeper. Info: skinnyandcompany.com.

WRIST WATCHING

With a life path that includes working as a stuntwoman and photojournalist, entrepreneur Szilvia Gogh is not exactly your average artisan. Her Gogh Jewelry Design jewelry is handcrafted from natural elements and is as inspirational as it is beautiful, with some pieces etched with messages like “Never, Never, Never Give Up,” and “I Am A Dreamer”. What spoke to me most, though, were her Mermaid bracelets. These resonate with both female empowerment and the freedom of the open sea. Not surprising once you discover that scuba diving is but yet another of Gogh’s passions. Info: goghjewelrydesign.com.

ONE STEP AHEAD

Every once in a blue suede moon you stumble into shoe nirvana. And I’m not talking drop dead gorgeous DEFCON 1 Carrie Bradshaw stilettoes. I mean shoes that make your feet happy… really, really happy. Footwear made anatomically correct for women (sorry guys), from Rykä, a company that knows the unique structure of female feet and designs accordingly. This fall, for example, they’re introducing Viona, modern, lace-up sneaker with a minimalist cache. The upper is made of knit fabric (so awesome) with ribbing plus micro-suede at the heel. Comfort personified. No wonder I’m a convert. Info: ryka.com. • AUGUST 2019 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 27


TRAVEL

DISNEY ADVENTURES HEAD TO GALAXY’S EDGE & BEYOND By Jenny Peters

f you haven’t noticed, the Walt Disney Company is hitting on all cylinders in 2019. Huge hit movies across genres ranging from Marvel action to animation to live-action reboots of classics are one part of the company’s success story, but for families with a bit of wanderlust in their blood, the bigger news in 2019 is about all of the exhilarating travel-related adventures that Disney has to offer. ADVENTURES BEHIND THE SCENES

Crowds have already stormed Disneyland in Southern California, as the first outpost of Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge took flight, complete with the Millennium Falcon Smugglers Run ride, Storm Troopers clomping past, and Oga’s Cantina, the bar with some very weird patrons. In late August that new land comes to Disney’s Hollywood Studios at Disney World in Orlando, which means that Galaxy isn’t so far, far away after all. And while you’ll have to join everyone else in the queue at either Disneyland or Disney World to enter the world of Star Wars, Disney fanatics both big and small can opt into a real behind-the-scenes experience at either of those two famed amusement parks, via Adventures by Disney. You can see the world with that Disney travel service—think Australia, Japan, Europe and beyond—and not ever see hide nor hair of Mickey and Minnie. But if being immersed in the world of Walt and his creative genius is a fascinating idea, then jump onto one of their exceptional tours. “Backstage Magic,” the Disney World version, is one jam-packed seven-hour day that takes you behind the scenes at Epcot, in the Magic Kingdom and even deep into the park’s rarely seen areas, like the Creative Costuming Center, where all the wardrobes and costumes are invented and created. For the ultimate immersion in Walt Disney’s life and dreams, head for SoCal to do the Disneyland/Southern California Escape, four days of mind-bending visits to places that civilians rarely see that include a full day in both Disneyland and California Adventure. Imagine getting into Disneyland one early morning while they are still preparing for visitors, witnessing empty streets and the same quiet that Walt saw when he looked out at Main Street from his private apartment above the fire department. Griffith Park Carousel ©Jenny Peters

Star Wars Galazy’s Edge Millennium Falcon

Disneyland Empty Main Street ©Jenny Peters

You’ll get a look inside that haven where Walt spent much of his time while Disneyland was in its infancy, then it’s on to Burbank, where a wander around the actual Walt Disney Studios is part of the adventure (which is always led by two helpful guides). It’s easy to imagine Walt and his brother Roy walking the tree-lined streets of this Art Deco-influenced campus in the 1940s, dreaming up new ways to enchant audiences both big and small. The next stop is the best stop, a visit to Walt Disney Imagineering Research and Development in nearby Glendale. There, where your camera/phone is required to stay in your pocket, you get an inside look at what the engineers and artists there are creating. It’s where Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge was imagined; the day we visited, we saw the elaborate models for Hong Kong Disney’s upcoming Frozen ride on display and much more. It was a Disney lovers’ dream visit. A dream, too, was a stop in Griffith Park for a ride on the carousel that inspired Walt to create Disneyland. That carousel was built in 1926, installed here in 1937 and is still going strong, zipping riders around on the original wooden horses, accompanied with music by a Stinson organ. It’s where Walt used to bring his daughters; sit on the bench dedicated to him and envision how he saw the beginnings of his first theme park take shape in his mind.

28 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | AUGUST 2019


Disney Cruises

ADVENTURE ON THE HIGH SEAS

What Walt Disney probably never imagined were massive cruise ships sailing the high seas, filled with delighted families immersed in the Disney brand. But that’s what you’ll find on the company’s four ships, with trips headed to Alaska in the summer, the Caribbean (including Castaway Cay, Disney’s own private island) and both Northern Europe and the Mediterranean. Kids can safely roam free on the ships, meeting up with Disney characters at every turn, enjoying supervised play or repeated slides into the huge pools on the top decks. We even spotted Captain Hook and Peter Pan, no surprise since Pirate Night is a huge costume party on every sailing, so don’t forget your costumes.

Aulani Waikolohe Valley

ADVENTURE IN PARADISE

If you’ve made it to Walt’s original stomping grounds in California, then grab the children and keep on going to Aulani, Disney’s ultimate family adventure resort in the paradise that is the western shore of Oahu, in Hawaii. Perched on its own protected lagoon in the Ko Olina area (about 30 miles west of Waikiki Beach), Aulani is nirvana for kids. Disney characters pop up regularly in different parts of the resort (who doesn’t love running into Goofy in an Aloha shirt?), there’s a massive swimming pool complete with water slides, and a lazy river; plus there’s a protected manmade snorkeling lagoon reef filled with colorful fish to explore.

Storytelling at Aunty’s Beach House Rainbow Reef

Parents can also get a mini-vacation away from their children ages 3-12 by dropping them at Aunty’s Beach House, where supervised play and Hawaiian-themed activities happen all day long. And while the kids are away playing, the resort has a beautiful spa and an adults-only swimming pool. If a love of excitement is really in your blood, head to nearby Trident Adventures in the Ko Olina Marina, where ex-Navy SEALs offer scuba diving and snorkeling trips – and if you’re really ready to test your mettle, they’ll include a jump out of a helicopter into the water, just like the SEALs do when on a mission. That will get your adrenaline pumping! Back at Aulani, the Ka Wa’a Luau is a crowd pleaser featuring an appearance by Moana. And, of course, every time Mickey Mouse makes an appearance at this Hawaiian Disney paradise, it almost feels as if Walt himself is smiling down on all the gleeful children that continue to love his many creations, nearly a century later. For more information on Adventures by Disney, visit adventuresbydisney. com; for Disney Cruises, visit disneycruise.disney.go.com; for Disney Aulani, visit disneyaulani.com. • AUGUST 2019 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 29


This Queen-Anne Stone Castle built in 1898 has been transformed from a private residence into a luxurious 10 suite Inn & farm-to-table, AAA 4 Diamond Restaurant. The Inn at Erlowest 3178 Lake Shore Drive Lake George, NY 12845

+1.518.668.5928 www.theinnaterlowest.com/en-us


TRAVEL

COOPERSTOWN

A BUCKET LIST GETAWAY FOR FANS OF AMERICA’S FAVORITE PASTIME By Laurie Bain Wilson

his is a huge year for New York baseball fans—New York Yankees pitchers Mariano Rivera and Mike Mussina were inducted into The National Baseball Hall of Fame in late July during Hall of Fame Weekend. So, the timing is as perfect as a Rivera cutter to visit Cooperstown—you’ll see their shiny bronze plaques that hang in the storied Plaque Gallery and, while baseball is the main game in Cooperstown, you’ll find other compelling reasons to visit America’s Most Perfect Village, just four hours from NYC. Here’s a lineup of where to eat, stay and play— Cooperstown has all the bases covered.

Baseball Hall of Fame

AUGUST 2019 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 31


PLAY The National Baseball Hall of Fame This nonprofit museum is hallowed ground. It is one of the most popular sports shrines in the country and, as such, pretty remarkable that it’s located here in off-the-beaten-path rural America—a real-life “if you build it, they will come” Field of Dreams. And fans have been coming since the doors opened in 1939. In addition to those iconic Hall of Fame plaques with Rivera, Mussina and other elected members, also on display are uniforms and memorabilia of many players including Cy Young’s 1911 Boston Braves uniform (historic baseball fact: my great-grandfather, Cornelius Daily, was a popular catcher with teams including Brooklyn and Boston, and hit a homerun off of Cy Young) and exhibits like Diamond Dreams: Women in Baseball and Pride and Passion: The African-American Baseball Experience. A new permanent exhibit, Shoebox Treasures, just opened in May, and is located on the third floor in an attic-like space, much like your grandfather’s attic where you’d hope to find his stash of prized cards. The exhibit is busy with collections of treasured baseball cards from the 1800s to today, as well as some interactive experiences. Info: baseballhall.org.

Front of the Fenimore with Totem ©Todd Kenyon The Farmers’ Museum

The Fenimore Art Museum A showcase for folk art and Indian artifacts, and the former family home of American author James Fenimore Cooper (The Last of the Mohicans), The Fenimore just debuted a worthwhile new exhibit—Herb Ritts: The Rock Portraits. It features incredible photos of rock stars by the famed photographer (think David Bowie, Madonna, Elton John). Nice: A café with outdoor seating. Info: fenimoreartmuseum.org. The Glimmerglass Queen Cruise Otsego Lake on The Glimmerglass Queen. The one-hour guided tour is a lake lullaby—a peaceful narration that tells the story of the lake and the Cooperstown region. And there’s a bar on-board, too. Info: cooperstownlakefronthotel.com/boat-tours. Farmers’ Museum Kids especially will want to visit this 1840’s recreated farming village, to spend a morning or afternoon with the endearing farm animals, and to take a spin on the carousel. Info: farmersmuseum.org.

Shoebox Treasures ©Milo Stewart Jr., National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum

32 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | AUGUST 2019


STAY The Otesaga Resort Hotel If walls could talk: one of America’s celebrated Grande Dames is this 135-room Cooperstown beauty. It shows off a sprawling veranda that overlooks Otsego Lake and is a quick swing into town. The Otesaga has hosted most Hall of Famers through the years, as well as other fan-favorite players and celebs. Play all the bases at the resort: Book the aromatherapy signature massage at the intimate Hawkeye Spa. Play golf at the historic Leatherstocking Golf Course, a special outing on the lakeside links. And take a dip in the outdoor pool, a perfect respite on a hot summer day, as is lounging poolside with a sip, the sun shining, and the distant chirping of a Baltimore oriole (of course). Info: otesaga.com. The Cooper Inn The funkier sister property to The Otesaga, with pops of color, and refined but unpretentious, this darling inn is a hit away from town and around the corner from the resort. Relax in the lounge with a glass of wine—you’re more than likely to find other guests to geek out with over your favorite baseball team and just-purchased baseball card finds (there are many shops in town that sell them, as well as customized bats). Extra innings: Stay here, and you can take advantage of all the amenities at The Otesaga. Info: cooperinn.com.

Otesaga

EAT & DRINK Brewery Ommegang New York State grew more hops and brewed more beer than any other state in the country between the mid-1800’s and 1900. And Cooperstown played a big part of the brewhaha—and still does. Tour this brewery that famously produced the Game of Thrones specialty beer, sold globally, and be sure to stick around for a flight of beers as well as poutine, buttermilk fried chicken, even Hungarian Goulash, in the buzzy café. Info: ommegang.com. Cooperstown Distillery New York State grains are the driving force behind this distillery that produces award-winning vodka, bourbon, whiskey, gin and rum, and is located just outside town. Take a tour and then hit the gift shop for fun items like a baseball-shaped glass bottle of vodka. Info: cooperstowndistillery.com. Origins Cafe A unique setting, this special restaurant is housed in a greenhouse, with flowers, plants and herbs, just miles from town. You’ll sip on a glass of organic prosecco infused with strawberry sage and dine on locally sourced apps like the cheese board with local cheeses and entrées including meatloaf prepared with local grass-fed beef and homemade rosemary aioli. Even the lovely plates are made locally. Info: celebrateorigins.com. 1909 The name of this restaurant is a nod to The Otesaga Resort Hotel’s original opening date, and the menu and concept are also a salute to a classic steakhouse—impeccable service in an elegant setting, serving the best steak, as well as classic sides you’d expect from a proper steakhouse, but edgier like the Mexican cream corn and Kennebec potato fries. The sweet spot: Linger with an after-dinner drink at the outside Fire Bar. Info: otesaga.com. Otesaga

For more information on Cooperstown, visit thisiscooperstown.com. • AUGUST 2019 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 33


TRAVEL

THE BERKSHIRES THE HILLS ARE ALIVE! By Laurie Bain Wilson

he hills are alive with the sound of music here, especially in August, with Tanglewood in full swing. And there’s big news in this neck of the woods: Tanglewood is now a yearround experience. For years, the loved music center shuttered once fall hit. But now you can experience this celebrated cultural getaway in the fall,winter and spring. The Tanglewood Learning Institute (TLI) debuted earlier this summer, a hub for cultural enrichment with year-round workshops, concerts with renowned and unconventional artists, immersion weekends, open rehearsals and master classes. TLI is housed in the New Linde Center for Music and Learning, a stunning four-building complex with a café, too, where you can mingle with the musicians and artists. Upcoming events include a three-day Film Weekend in late August featuring convos with legendary conductors and composers about the topic of how “music is both a core element and a central subject of drama.” And you can expect a full lineup of events and activities throughout the year. Info: tli.org. Of course, there are other compelling reasons to visit The Berkshires. The museums are world-renowned, and farm-to-table restaurants are the real deal. Also, the inn and resort scene are turning heads. Here’s where to eat, stay and play in a destination that nurtures heart and soul.

EAT

There is a handful of restaurants that are Berkshire favorites and have been for decades. And, there’s also a somewhat newer crop of restaurants, too, namely farm-to-fork spots that are in tune with the land. Nudel It’s all about sustainable food in the Berkshires. The menu changes nightly because the food is uber-local, and ingredients depend on what’s growing. Expect dishes like White Bean and Artichoke Heart Hummus and Seared Joyce Farms Chicken Thighs. Info: nudelrestaurant.com. Cantina 229 In rural Marlborough sits this barn-turned-cantina tucked behind a farmhouse with a daily-changing-menu that 34 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | AUGUST 2019

Red Lion Inn

shows off ingredients that are grown on property or raised locally. Come for the popular Taco Tuesdays and pair house made guac and those tacos with a signature margarita, and there are lawn games and summertime bonfires. Info: cantina229.com. Lion’s Den An iconic spot in town to listen to music, sip a local craft beer and snack on wings, truffle mac ‘n cheese and chicken pot pie. The pub is in the belly of The Red Lion Inn and locals and visitors have been bellying up to the bar for decades. Info: redlioninn.com. Balderdash Cellars Cali meets the Berkshires at this winery in Richmond where you can get a sip in the tasting room and kick back for some live music. Info: balderdashcellars.com.


STAY Some of the Berkshire inns and resorts have been nurturing city slickers forever. And then there are the newer kids on the block. The Williams Inn This 64-room modern farmhouse-style inn debuts on August 15th in Williamstown, a skip away from Williams College and The Clark Art Institute. The inn will also house The Tavern, with a bar and farmsourced menu. Info: williamsinn.com. The Red Lion Inn Known for its sprawling porch and rockers, the inn has been here for more than 200 years and is celebrating a big birthday this summer. It’s been 50 years since the Fitzpatrick family reopened the inn, and you can expect season-long festivities including tribute porch popups featuring dance, music and special sips. On summer days hang by the outdoor pool and hot tub (it’s year-round and heated, too) Info: redlioninn.com. Canyon Ranch Lenox One of the first wellness resorts in the country, this getaway opened 30 years ago. It’s surrounded by 120 acres of woodlands and a former Gilded Age mansion houses the Health & Healing Center. Nice: Complimentary transportation to Tanglewood, Jacob’s Pillow and other cultural hotbeds. Book one of the weekend workshops in August. Info: canyonranch.com/ lenox. Seven Hills Inn A 1911 Gilded Age beauty with a recent facelift is now a stylish boutique hotel with a new restaurant and bar, Plunkett Lounge. Located in Lenox, the inn holds court among 27 acres of gardens and lushness, and along pretty Route 7, aka Antiques Alley, and Edith Wharton’s estate, The Mount, is a neighbor. Info: sevenhillsinn.com.

Jiminy Peak Aerial Adventure

Seven Hills

PLAY The Berkshires harmonize beautifully with nature—the area is a landscape of rolling hills and iconic villages, a canvas for art, music, hiking, cycling and more. Jiminy Peak The top summer attraction at this ski resort is the Aerial Adventure Park’s self-guided aerial forest ropes course for kids and adults. The Mountain Adventure Park is also a hot spot with a Mountain Coaster, Alpine Super Slide and more thrill-seeker activities. And lift-served mountain biking is a thing—the Berkshire Express chairlift whisks you to the summit and you’ll cruise down the mountain. Info: jiminypeak.com. The Appalachian Trail Lace up, this is hike territory. Ninety miles of the legendary Appalachian Trail snakes through Massachusetts. Nice: You can overnight on the summit of Mount Greylock here, the highest peak in the state. Info: appalachiantrail.org. Tanglewood Picnicking at this lovely Lenox outdoor concert venue is taken to another level. Expect to see picnic spreads that include vases of hydrangeas, candelabras and serious picnic provisions. This is the summer home of The Boston Symphony Orchestra and is also the stage for special concerts like Yo-Yo Ma, Pat Benatar and Gladys Knight & The Spinners, Melissa Etheridge and Reba McEntire, all performing later this month. Info: bso.org. Clark Art Institute Another museum that’s all about the outdoors in the summer months is this 140-acre campus in Williamstown. Permanent and rotating exhibits inspire. Now through September 22nd is a special exhibit titled Renoir: The Body, The Senses. Info: clarkart.edu. The Norman Rockwell Museum Stockbridge claims fame to the illustrator, author and painter who lived and worked at this spot that is now proudly home to the largest collection of his art in the world. You can spend an afternoon here admiring his paintings, visiting his studio and picnicking under the apple trees. Info: nrm.org. Massachusetts Museum of Contemporary Art (MASS MoCA) Amazingly, The Berkshires are home to the largest contemporary art museum in America. In summer especially, there is a jampacked roster of concerts and special events. You can also grab a Massachusetts brew from the microbrewery. Info: massmoca.org. Jacob’s Pillow This summer marks the 87th season of this iconic summer dance festival, known for its world premieres and cuttingedge performances, too—and many of them are free. The Pillow is a National Historic Landmark, and in addition to those indoor and outdoor performances, often with live music, you can take a tour of this cherished Berkshires spot, too. Info: jacobspillow.org.

Norman Rockwell Museum

For more information on The Berkshires, visit berkshires.org. • AUGUST 2019 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 35


TRAVEL

THE BEEKMAN ARMS & DELAMATER INN A LONG HISTORY OF HOSPITALITY By Jeff & Stephanie Sylva

he wide plank floors, sturdy overhead beams and huge stone hearth, immediately apparent upon entering the lobby, evoke a convincing sense of history. The legacy of The Beekman Arms is historically compelling. It was in 1704, at the intersection of the King’s Highway (today’s Route 9) and the Sepasco Trail in Ryne Beck (the original spelling), New York, that William Traphagen established his tavern. The Traphagen Tavern became The Beekman Arms in 1766 when the inn was added in front of and over the original sturdy timber and stone building. For more than two and a half centuries The Beekman Arms has been continuously serving as the center of hospitality for travelers, Rhinebeck locals, and an impressive list of statesmen, dignitaries, and notable guests, making “The Beek” (as many locals fondly call it) America’s oldest inn.

NOTABLE GUESTS The Inn was active during the Revolutionary War, as the 4th Regiment of the Continental Army drilled on its front lawn in preparation for the war in 1775. George Washington, Benedict Arnold, Alexander Hamilton, and others ate, drank, and slept here. It is believed that while a candidate for Governor of New York and whose campaign was headquartered in Rhinebeck, Aaron Burr quarreled with Alexander Hamilton in The Beekman Arms’ tap room—a quarrel that eventually would lead to a drastic outcome. William Jennings Bryan delivered one of his eloquent orations from a second-story window to a huge crowd gathered on the front lawn. A well-known Hyde Park neighbor, Franklin D. Roosevelt, was also a frequent guest. He concluded each of his campaigns for both governor and president (four times) with a speech from The Inn’s front porch. The Inn’s guest list includes names like Bill and Hillary Clinton, Walter Cronkite, Oprah Winfrey, Norman Mailer, Neil Armstrong, Arnold Palmer, Jack Nicholson, Paul Newman, and numerous other notable names.

Beekman Arms Exterior

ACCOMMODATIONS The Beekman Arms is a classic country inn set in the center of Rhinebeck. All of the guestrooms have been completely renovated maintaining the historical ambiance with contemporary comforts including private bath, air conditioning, flat-screen TV, as well as fireplaces in a selection of rooms. Guest rooms, which vary greatly, are located in the main inn building as well as several guest houses. The 13 rooms on the upper floors of the original inn date from 1766.

Delamater Inn

36 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | AUGUST 2019

Accommodations also include 57 rooms of The Delamater Inn and its courtyard buildings and guesthouses on its campus-style property. The Delamater, built in 1844, was designed by one of America’s first architects, Alexander Jackson Davis, and is one of the finest remaining examples of American Carpenter Gothic. The Beekman Arms and Delamater Inn is a member of The Historic Hotels of America. Info: beekmandelamaterinn.com.


HISTORIC DINING VENUE Since 1766 Rhinebeck residents and visitors have gathered, talked, eaten, and drunk, at The Tavern at the Beekman Arms. The CIA-trained culinary team crafts an outstanding menu of delectable offerings with a focus on utilizing locally-sourced provisions and wines. The Inn’s signature dishes are the Dutch Pot Pie with farm fresh turkey, roasted root vegetables, and a tasty cheddar biscuit in the middle, and the Yankee Pot Roast with red wine braised beef, potato puree and baby vegetables. Patrons can choose to dine in the historic 200-year-old Tap Room with its original wide planked floors and authentic decor, the glassenclosed garden greenhouse, or on the patio in warmer weather. Lunch, dinner, and Sunday brunch are offered, as well as a complimentary buffet breakfast for hotel guests only.

Poets’ Walk

WHAT TO DO Explore the village’s wide variety of cafes, bistros, and taverns and a number of interesting boutique shops. Antique stores are ubiquitous, including the Beekman Arms’ own Antique Market with over 30 dealers housed in a classic 2-story barn located behind the Inn. On Friday nights join other thrill seekers and be led down to the basement of The Beekman Arms to experience the telling of some true, and chilling, anecdotes about America’s oldest operating inn. Ghost Stories recounts the tales of some of the people—and spirits—that that have occupied the Inn for over 250 years.

Beekman Arms Tap Room

Since Rhinebeck sits in the center of the National Historic Landmark District, you can visit nine Hudson River Estates, including Vanderbilt Mansion, Franklin D. Roosevelt Home and Library, Eleanor Roosevelt National Historic Site, Mills Mansion, Olana, Wilderstein, Clermont, Montgomery Place, and Locust Grove. Get out and stretch your legs with a scenic stroll over the Hudson River at the Walkway Over the Hudson in nearby Poughkeepsie, NY. This 1.28-mile linear park sits 212 feet above the river and boasts scenic views of the Catskills to the north and the Hudson Highlands to the south. Closer to Rhinebeck is the 120-acre park, Poets’ Walk Park, offering relaxed walking paths in a beautiful landscape interspersed with benches, ornamental pavilions and sweeping Hudson River views. The park’s name is a tribute to the 19th-century writers such as Washington Irving who were attracted to and inspired by the beauty of this Romantic landscape. Located in Rhinebeck is the Ferncliff Forest Game Refuge and Forest Preserve. The 200-acre old-growth forest has 4 miles of trails and an 80-foot fire tower, which—once you have climbed its 109 steps— offers sweeping views of the Hudson River, Catskill Mountains, and the surrounding area. Rhinebeck is about a two-hour drive from New York City and is also accessible via Amtrak. Info: enjoyrhinebeck.com. Rhinebeck Aerodrome

HISTORIC AVIATION A fascinating Rhinebeck attraction is Cole Palen’s Old Rhinebeck Aerodrome. A “Living Museum of Antique Aircraft,” the Aerodrome features over 50 antique aircraft and over 40 vintage vehicles from 1900-1940. A unique feature of the Aerodrome is the aerial demonstrations conducted on weekends from mid-June through mid-October. The History of Flight Airshow is presented on Saturdays and the World War I Airshow is on Sundays. For an even more thrilling experience take a ride in a 1929 D-25 Open Cockpit Biplane. Info: oldrhinebeck.org. • AUGUST 2019 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 37


TRAVEL

PUTTING THE GLITZ BACK IN THE RITZ

THE LUXURY CHAIN REIMAGINES ITS FLAGSHIP HOTEL By Bailey Beckett

hen The Ritz-Carlton New York, Central Park opened in 2002, housed in the former St. Moritz, it marked the return of the vaunted brand to New York’s most famous location. While its sister property in Battery Park opened downtown in 2001 (and closed 17 years later), it was the Central Park hotel that truly reclaimed the company’s hold on five-star luxury. Marble lobby, floor-to-ceiling wood paneling and dramatic, moody art hung on its walls, helping attract New York’s elite to the clubby vintage ambiance. Flash forward to 2019: out with the old, and in with the new. The renovated and refurbished Ritz-Carlton New York, Central Park is a sight for starry eyes. THE LOBBY Contour Its lobby lounge is the most dramatic change. Though still featuring its iconic oak-wood walls, the space, rebranded Contour, transitions the ambiance from classic to contemporary with surprising ease. Spread over three rooms—the original lounge, bar and restaurant—the newly christened Contour effortlessly connects it all with an unmistakable electricity that is at the same time relaxing, exciting and luxurious. The bar takes its name from the fluid Matisse-like forms that appear throughout as a decorative motif and is the perfect cursor for a new concept in dining: the all-day gastro lounge. Craft-cocktails inspired small plates utilizing locally-sourced ingredients, and intimate seating for conversation makes Contour the new “it” place for anytime gathering. 38 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | AUGUST 2019

Bar Room to Salon Room


THE SUITES The hotel was always known for its impeccable suites, and the new The Ritz-Carlton New York, Central Park doesn’t disappoint. True to its residentially inspired style, the 47 suites welcome guests with their very own pied-à-terre like setting. While the Avenue View Suite category showcases the bustle of the Manhattan streets down below, the Premiere Park View Suites provides a bird’s eye view of the park’s treetops. The pièce de résistance are the Artists’ Gate Suites—bold, new additions adorned with specially commissioned photography from highly regarded artists, many from New York and tomes of fashion houses that provide townhouse-inspired tranquility. The guest rooms are also worthy of your rest: designed with Beaux Arts classicism and contemporary flair, they create the feel of NYC’s chicest penthouses. Creamy ecru hues, custom carpeting inlaid with a Matisse sketch and wallpaper of cloud formations can be found throughout the rooms, and elegantly paired with framed photographs from many of the world’s best-known artists. Even the in-room honor bars have been reimagined, including a new private single selection single barrel bourbon developed in partnership by the city’s oldest whiskey distillery—Kings County Distillery.

Premiere Park View Suite Living Room

SPA & WELLNESS

La Prairie Facial

Serving as the spa at The Ritz-Carlton New York, Central Park is La Prairie, one of the world’s most esteemed wellness brands whose development of skin care treatments starts at the most basic level. Its founder, Dr. Paul Niehans, created the brand on the shore of Switzerland’s Lake Leman with a single purpose: unlocking the secrets of eternal youth, which he believed started with science. After years of research, he made a breakthrough in 1931 by developing techniques based on cellular therapy. His Clinique La Prairie thus became a sanctuary of rejuvenation, just as it exists today. Its spa is the only of its kind in the Northeast, and includes everything from caviar-infused facials and massages to microdermabrasion and the “Diamond Perfection” treatment: 90 minutes of exfoliation with diamond and tourmaline powders, topped off with a Skin Caviar Luxe Soufflé Body Cream. Also offered are collagen face masks, micro-current lifts, hair and scalp treatments, soothing foot exfoliation, cellular-hydrating hand techniques and muscle and joint relief with warm stones, among many other treatments. The spa’s six rooms are thoughtfully renamed based on the words of the iconic Swiss brand and include walls covered in neutral tones, fleur-de-lis carpeting, and chandelier lighting, while its relaxation room treats guests to serenity and champers.

HOME AWAY FROM HOME “The unified vision throughout the hotel allows guests to feel as if they are visiting their very own townhouse in the heart of New York City,” said Winfred van Workum, general manager of The Ritz-Carlton New York, Central Park. “The creative reimagining of Contour, our guest rooms, suites, Club Lounge, and spa creates a heightened sense of place and serves as a gateway for travelers to experience the destination with ease and luxury.” We couldn’t have said it, err, written it better ourselves. For more information on The RitzCarlton New York, Central Park, visit ritzcarlton.com. •

The Artists’ Gate Suite Living Room

AUGUST 2019 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 39


TRAVEL

LEXINGTON, KENTUCKY HISTORY, HORSES…AND BOURBON By Ruth J. Katz

hen I first visited Lexington nearly a decade ago, I was struck by the spectacular aerial approach to the aptly named Blue Grass Airport. The rippling terrain is blanketed by a neatly trimmed tapestry of intense Kelly green, accented with a staccato dot of a majestic oak or sycamore, and all demarcated by snowy-white, rectilinear patterns, formed by the postand-rail fences. (For the record, there are 450 horse farms in the region.) Enthralled by the topography, I later learned that the peripatetic, former CBS news eminence grise, Charles Kuralt, in his 1989 book, On the Road with Charles Kuralt, had declared that this was the most striking airport descent he’d ever seen. It is a fitting introduction to such an outstanding destination. Of course, most people know Lexington as the epicenter of bourbon, and to underline that, there are 14 bourbon distilleries within 45 miles of the charming downtown, including the renowned Woodford Reserve. As a testament to that, the Bluegrass Tavern in downtown’s Cheapside district stocks more than 800 bourbons for savoring! A staggering 95 percent of the world’s bourbon is aged in Kentucky, and at any given moment, there are more than 7.5 million racked bourbon barrels. (And here’s a tidbit to drop at cocktail parties: During Prohibition, nearby Buffalo Trace Distillery was one of only four stills with a government license to produce “medicinal whiskey.” Ahem.) Insider tip: Tour the gardens at Castle & Key Distillery; they are both manicured and wild—painstakingly replicating the original grounds from nearly 150 years ago—handsomely executed by Lexington’s star landscape architect, John Carloftis. And, of course, tour the distillery, too! It is worth noting that while bourbon is Kentucky’s king, there are 18 craft beer breweries within a stone’s throw of downtown. (Psst: The city has created a Brewery Passport for checking them out.) 40 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | AUGUST 2019

Castle and Key Distillery


RACE TO THE FARMS Of course, the Thoroughbred reigns supreme and there are tours at many horse farms. Racehorses are generally cremated, and only the head, heart, and often the hooves are interred, but at Claiborne Farm, the legendary Secretariat, winner of the 1973 Triple Crown, is buried in toto. When the celebrated Man o’ War retired to stud in the Bluegrass, visitors flocked to see him and when he died, there were 63 ledgers with over 1.3 million signatures! At Coolmore America, two Triple Crown winners, American Pharaoh and Justify, stand for stud and are star attractions.

Gate Start at Keeneland

Do not omit the Kentucky Horse Park, set on 1,200 acres of prime Bluegrass farmland, with three museums, horse-drawn tours, carriage rides, horseback riding, pony rides, and much more. The National Horse Center at the Park is the national headquarters to more than 30 equine associations. Keeneland Race Course, a National Historic Landmark, is ground zero for all things horse-related for the pros, including the most important Thoroughbred sales each year. Races take place in April and October (this year, October 4th through 26th), and if you are there then, reserve a table at lunchtime in one of the facility’s dining rooms, so you can savor the delicious cuisine while you place your bets and watch the action on TV.

SEEKING HISTORY? There are four extraordinary estates to visit: Ashland, the home of the statesman, senator, Speaker of the House, and Secretary of State Henry Clay, is a National Historic Landmark and features 20 wooded acres and an English parterre garden. The Mary Todd Lincoln House, a Georgian-style brick structure, was the former First Lady’s childhood home and is one of the oldest structures in town. Hopemont, the Hunt-Morgan House built in 1814 for the first millionaire west of the Alleghenies, is a striking, Federal-style edifice and a living museum with its period garden and its own Civil War Museum. Built for a grand-nephew of Daniel Boone, Waveland, a State Historic Site, is a stellar example of Greek Revival-style and was the heart of a hemp plantation (replete with its slave quarters), pre-Civil War. Not into unfurling the past? Want something a bit more animated? “Meet the Family” proclaims the sign outside the pen where the American Guinea Hogs Lucy and Sally frolic in the singular Shaker Village at Pleasant Hill, the largest restored Shaker community in the United States, with 3,000 acres of farmland and 34 restored 19thcentury buildings. It is an extraordinarily educational and entertaining attraction, with 72 hotel rooms (traditionally outfitted with trademark Shaker furniture), and a hospitable dining room, the Trustees’ Table, with its seed-to-table menu. (Devotees flock here for the iconic coleslaw and the pimento cheese spread.) The Village, another National Historic Landmark, offers dozens of inventive daily activities. Ashland Henry Clay Estate Gardens

One last juicy morsel: Margaret Mitchell’s inspiration for Belle Watling in Gone with the Wind was the real-life, notorious, local madam Belle Brezing, who ran a highclass, Victorian-era brothel in Lexington.

WHERE TO STAY The 21c Museum Hotel is a gracious, modern facility with outstanding art in its many galleries. One of seven properties in the 21c Group, it is the brainchild of Laura Lee Brown and Steve Wilson, contemporary art collectors and preservationists. Each hotel is home to carefully curated art exhibitions, and each has an artistic army of plastic, four-foot-tall penguin sculptures, which you can bring to your room or table. Another choice is the Kentucky Castle, built over fifty years ago as a private residence, and today a welcoming inn. For more information on Lexington, Kentucky, visit visitlex.com and visithorsecountry.com. © 2019 Ruth J. Katz all Rights Reserved •

Stylish Room at 21c Museum Hotel

AUGUST 2019 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 41


TRAVEL

TEE TIME

GOLF COURSES TO TEST YOUR METTLE By Stephen Wood

f course, there are many diversions to occupy these long days of Summer. But golf is by far the most challenging—demanding time, patience and more than a little skill. In a time where everything has to be connected and happen now—golf can be satisfying for those very reasons. Here, a selection of golf courses worthy of your consideration and located in and around New York.

VAN CORTLANDT PARK Located in the northern reaches of The Bronx, it is the oldest public golf course in the U.S. Known as “Vanny” by the locals, it is the most easily accessible NYC course. Under new management, and a cost of approximately $1.5 million in upgrades, Van Cordlandt features seven new greens, new tee boxes, additional cart paths, improved bunkers, and dramatically improved drainage. With a total of 6.096 yards, this golf course, situated in a park-like setting, is the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of NYC without ever having to leave the city. A tee-time reservation can be made via the Parks Department. Info: nycgovparks.org.

MOSHOLU PARK GOLF COURSE Mosholu Golf Course and Driving Range is a family friendly 9-hole public golf facility located in the North Bronx. The par 32 golf course measures 2,178 yards from the middle tees. It is equally fun for beginners with its rolling fairways as for experts looking to take it easy. Among the best conditioned municipal courses in the area, its rolling fairways and contoured greens provide the perfect golf experience for both beginners and experts alike, with a friendly atmosphere where you can bring the entire family. Their 20,000 square foot putting green, chipping area and driving range also provides a place to warm up before you tee off, or to hone your skills for your next time out on the links. Info: mosholugolfcourse.com.

BETHPAGE STATE PARK This mecca for public golf features five 18-hole regulation golf courses including the world-renowned Black Course which was the site of the U.S. Open in 2002 and 2009, The Barclays in 2012 and 2016, and The PGA Championship earlier this year; it is the future site for the Ryder Cup in 2024. Famed golf course architect A.W. Tillinghast was hired to design and oversee construction of three new golf courses (Black, Red and Blue) as well as modify the Lenox Hills Course which became the Green Course. Due to the increased demand for golf, the Yellow Course designed by Alfred Tull was opened in 1958. Approximately 300,000 rounds are played annually on the five courses at Bethpage, all of which start from the Clubhouse area. Info: bethpagegolfcourse.com.

THE LYNX AT RIVER BEND GOLF CLUB In January 2011, Andrew and Elaine Koch purchased the Port Jervis Country Club, completely remodeled the facility and opened in the Spring as The Lynx at River Bend Golf Club. This beautiful, 6,093 yard golf course was mostly designed by A.W. Tillinghast and while construction started in 1915, the course was opened as an 18-hole private country club in 1921. This challenging yet fair course is now open to the public as a semi-private golf club with a fully stocked pro shop. In 2018, The Lynx at River Bend Golf Club opened a new driving range. Info: thelynxgolfclub.com.

HAMPTON HILLS GOLF AND COUNTRY CLUB Hampton Hills is a golf and tennis club nestled on 2,000 acres of Pine Barrens in Westhampton. The 18-hole course features 6,634 yards from the longest tees for a par of 71. Serene is the watch-word for Hampton Hills which offers plenty of elevation and water features to put mind and golf club to work. Although a membership is required, we bet it won’t be too difficult to find a friend in the neighborhood to invite you for the day. Info: hamptonhills.com. •


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DIFFERENT & ABLE FOUNDATION LAUNCH PARTY

HISTORIC HOUSE GALA

Myra Biblowit, Hon. Therese Braddick

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Beth Jacobs, Connie Vick, Gloria Fieldcamp

George Mann, Carla Mann Ellen Concannon, Justin Concannon, Roric Tobin, Lindsay Concannon

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CELEBRATION OF SCOTLAND’S TREASURES HONORS ANDY SCOTT

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WP THEATER 40TH ANNIVERSARY GALA

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Junior Committee And Friends

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Alasdair Nichol

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Patrick Duffy, Nicolas Villalon, Alasdair Nichol

Susan Tate Dwyer, Emily Warren

Quinn Peeper, Linda Packard

46 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | AUGUST 2019

Stewart F. Lane, Bonnie Feld, Bonnie Comley


LENOX HILL NEIGHBORHOOD HOUSE GALA

Roric Tobin, Justin Concannon

Michael Sag, Lisa McNulty

Sydney Schuman, Renee Landegger, Diana Quasha

Cathy Austin Una Festa Futurismo

Sendhil Ramamurthy

Victoria Wyman, Sana Sabbagh

Cast of Oklahoma Alberto Villalobos, Audrey Margarite, Jennifer Potter, Lindsey Coral Harper Shayla Copas

Jamal Nusseibeh, Julia Balaeskoul Nusseibeh

Warren Sharp, Francis Beatty Adler, Allen Adler

Alison Spear, Mark Gilbertson, Tom Edelman, Ingrid Edelman

AUGUST 2019 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 47


2019 ACE GALA – THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA

BLERANCOURT SUMMER KICK-OFF PARTY

Larry Wohl, Leesa Rowland, Katerina Feldman, Leslie Feldman

Henry Buhl Matthew Adell, Pamela Johanano

Lauren Imparato, ACE Honoree Jorge Iragorri

Sandra Sanches, Henry Buhl, Janet Goldman

Arian Piazzi, Massimo Piazzi, Pat Haskell

Donna Soloway, Richard Soloway

Franck Laverdin, Eglantina Zingg

Sandra Sanches and her fiancé Gregory Redmond

Valerie Greenberg, Rob Shuter

48 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | AUGUST 2019

Gary Stonesifer, Quincy Morgan, Andrew Werner, Sonja Morgan, Nell Rebowe, Marco Maranghello

Lauren Day Roberts, Brad Roaman, Caroline Berthet, Nicole Miller


FUND FOR PARK AVENUE AT SCULLY AND SCULLY

Marie-Claire Gladstone, Sonja Morgan, Jeanne Lawrence, Pamela Johananoff, Felicia Taylor, Caroline Berthet

Michael Scully, Barbara McLaughlin

Cathy Graham

Betsy Pinover Schiff

Mary McFadden, Edgar Batista Ellen Niven, Eric Ross, Ruthann Ross

Matthew Adell, Suzanne Santry, David Santry Christopher Mason Michel Witmer

Susan Gutfreund, Benny Tabatabai, Victor Martinez

Wendy Moonan

Barbara Tober, Donald Tober AUGUST 2019 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 49


FEATURES

BITS & BAILEY

THE WHO, WHAT & WOW OF THE WORLD’S LUXE SCENE By Bailey Beckett

heers, dears. Happy August. I know, I know: it’s gross out there. Blazing heat and humidity? Au contraire, mon frères. That’s what a lobby lounge is for. HOW “LOEW” CAN YOU GO? Speaking of, the hottest lounge that will cool you off this summer is the Loews Regency New York – the only luxury hotel on Park Ave (north of 57th, I should say). A jewel in the city’s hospitality echelon, the Loews is bursting with buzz around the clock, yet splendidly serene for its pampered guests, whether out of town or in for a stay-cation. Bailey had a wonderful weekend in this uptown oasis, which boasts 379 guest rooms that seamlessly blend iconic Art Deco design with modern sensibilities. Its expansive 24-foot high ceiling greets you upon entering its lobby, which includes a Brise de Printemps art installation by Brooklyn-based artist Nina Helms featuring 438 handcrafted dogwood flowers in various stages of bloom floating across the wall. The lobby isn’t the only “oooh la la” moment. The Loews’ rooms and suites are among the most spacious and tasteful in the city, treating its guests to soothing decor, Frette linens and bathrobes, smart televisions with movies on demand, ridiculously fast (and free!) Wi-Fi, personalized temperature control, and outlets galore: yes, it’s a thing. It’s the signature suites that are the sweetest. Ranging from 700- to-1500 square feet, they feature varying views of Central Park, Park Avenue, and the New York City skyline. Anchored by the Nate Berkus Apartment on the 21st floor (yes, Oprah’s guy) some of the exclusive spaces include the Bohemian Suite, inspired by the eclectic aesthetic of SoHo; the Bespoke Suite which draws from New York City’s vibrant fashion industry; the Glamour Suite, an interpretation of what might have been Marilyn Monroe’s Park Avenue pied-a-terre. Providing extra allure is the Julien Farel Restore Salon & Spa, which invented the “Power Beauty” menu. And how beautiful it is! The 10,000-square-foot haven offers the very best hairdressing, aesthetics, massage therapy, and fitness all under one roof. Julien Farel also includes a spa that features clinically proven Anti-Aging therapies to address sun damage, wrinkles, and other signs of aging without invasive surgery. Beauty, luxury, scenery, serenity. You’re tired, I know. It’s time to really indulge. And there’s no closer place than The Regency Bar & Grill, the hotel’s signature restaurant and dining concept serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner throughout the week and brunch on weekends. Info: loewshotel.com/regency-hotel.

JOURNEY TO LE JARDINIÈR World-renowned chef Joël Robuchon’s legacy lives on. Joining his restaurant L’Atelier near the Meatpacking District is the new uptown hotspot Le Jardinièr, a modern restaurant helmed by Michelin-starred Chef Alain Verzeroli, Robuchon’s longtime protégé. Designed by Parisian architect Joseph Dirand, Le Jardinièr is a journey into a serene lush indoor garden that expertly contrasts its urban Midtown Manhattan. Green marble walls, plants, vertical louvers, and floor-to-ceiling windows are the perfect setting to enjoy the vegetable-driven menu. An approachable yet refined restaurant, Le Jardinièr features a menu of vegetable-driven dishes, rooted in classic French technique. Local, seasonal fruits and vegetables, fresh herbs, and greens are complemented by wild and sustainable fish, meat and poultry. Signature dishes include Roasted Lobster, Cherry Smoked Potatoes and Coralline Bisque; and Dover Sole with Lemongrass and Leeks. 50 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | AUGUST 2019


“Le Jardinièr is focused on modern cuisine utilizing the highest quality vegetables, seasonal ingredients, and fresh herbs,” said Chef Verzeroli, who most recently worked with Robuchon at Château Restaurant in Tokyo, where his guidance led to three Michelin stars for eleven consecutive years. “This is the way sophisticated diners are eating globally, and we intend to fill this niche in Midtown. Our menu offerings fit seamlessly into the timeless, light-filled interior.” His team at Le Jardinièr includes Robuchon veterans Executive Pastry Chef Salvatore Martone and Head Baker Tetsuya Yamaguchi. The sensational fare is the perfect match for Beverage Director Roberto Longo’s inventive cocktails for a hot, hot, summer day. The La Mademoiselle made with gin, homemade grapefruit cordial and topped with Prosecco Brut Rose will cool you down in no time. The bar stocks a wine list of 350 varietals from the French regions of Champagne, Burgundy, and Bordeaux as well as New York State wines from the Finger Lakes. Info: lejardinier-nyc.com.

A BOUND-IFUL JOURNEY New York to Boston in a Tesla for $99? What? That’s what Bailey said upon learning about the new Bound car service. Forget Amtrak or the Delta Shuttle! Imagine making the four-hour drive to Bean Town in this state-of-the-art electric car that rides with the precision and comfort of a Bentley. Bound is a ride-sharing venture where four passengers (and one driver) make the trek in a semi-autonomous driving Model X Tesla— which coasts on just one electric charge! Booking is made online, and riders are allowed one medium suitcase and two personal-sized bags (like a backpack or purse). “Our mission is to create a transportation service that transforms the way people perceive and pursue city-to-city transportation, offering a prestigious and personalized professional service that is startlingly affordable, and widely accessible,” says Bound founder Hamlet Aguilar. “Bound is a way for travelers to bypass the stress of driving (fuel, navigation, traffic, tolls, and parking), bus, or train transportation. Instead, experience relaxing, affordable, professionally driven regional trips in one of the coolest vehicles on the planet.” Info: ridebound.com.

SAY BONJOUR TO BONHEUR Bailey is obsessed with Bonheur Ice Cream & Pie an ice-cream shop offshore in Easton, Maryland that features a dozen or so haute flavors, as well as four signature pies, milkshakes, and espresso drinks housed in a scrumptious atelier inspired by Coco Chanel. Its artisanal offerings include Coconut Custard and Apple Streusel; Sprecher Cream Soda and Root Beer; ice cream fantasies like Raspberry Ripple, Bananas Foster, Espresso Chocolate Chip and, of course, Classical Vanilla. And don’t forget Bonheur’s signature Ice Cream Waffle Sandwich! The décor is as chic as the menu: pale green, pink, salmon, and grey wall coverings exquisitely frame the space, with custom-made grey-blue leather booths providing extra Jolie. Creating the illusion of haute couture dresses are pleated sunsetgold lampshades that hover over the banquets. Even the powder rooms burst with hauteur: pink elephants greet the belles, while blue welcome the beaus. “Ice cream is a timeless guilty pleasure,” said Paul Prager, Bonheur’s proprietor. “We wanted to capture that sentiment and take visitors on a sensory journey that brings the past to present, but with elegance and refinement. Bonheur is an ice cream atelier in its most exquisite form.” Info: Follow Bonheur Ice Cream & Pie on Facebook @bonhueureaston.

HOT FOR CHOCOLATE It’s time to savor La Maison du Chocolat’s new guilt-free Bien Être, a new line of the delicious treats that prove chocolate can be a healthy snack indeed. Collaborating with Dr. Thierry Hanh, a nutritionist known for balanced gourmet food, La Maison du Chocolat’s Chef Nicolas Cloiseau has created a collection of five new chocolate varieties that are sweetened with natural sugars like honey, pureed fruits and nectars blended into a rich ganache combining hazelnut oil for creaminess with natural chicory fiber for substance. The new flavors, which are dairy, gluten, and sugar-free, are also high in vitamins and antioxidants, like turmeric, squash seeds, and pomegranate. Info: lamaisonduchocolat.us. •

AUGUST 2019 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 51


FEATURES

TECH TALK

EXPANDING WIRELESS NETWORKS By Will Read

t is all around us yet we cannot seem to get enough of it. Alternatively, we can see it on our devices but it is not fast enough or the signal is not strong, or your shiny new cell phone, tablet, gadget keeps trying to connect to the neighbors Wi-Fi network. Then of course there is the situation where your gadget connects beautifully to Wi-Fi in the living room, but then you go to another room—and there is no signal. Sound familiar? Help is at hand. Wi-Fi is a completely made up name for the standard developed by scientists and industry for the radio broadcast of an internet access signal codified as the IEEE 802.11b Direct Sequence. Thankfully, industry and scientists decided that this would never catch on and so came up with the word Wi-Fi which sounded like the audio term Hi-Fi (High Fidelity). This translates at home into a modem typically installed by the cable provider which broadcasts a Wi-Fi signal to connect everything from your computer, cell phone, tablets, and other devices. However, Wi-Fi is not perfect. The signal can be degraded or blocked by thick walls or placement of the modem where it can be obstructed. In apartment buildings a profusion of individual Wi-Fi networks can interfere with one another. Also, although the building designer may have put the connection sockets in the wall where they thought was ideal, it may be the case that it is not central enough for a good signal. But there are solutions to help you capture the Wi-Fi signal you need.

EERO PRO

Enter the eero Pro which delivers the Wi-Fi signal throughout your home with a base unit connected to your modem. Then, plug the eero Beacons into any wall socket around your home for excellent signal strength. Quick and easy to use, this device extends your Wi-Fi network and is very clever: It detects which device you are using and is capable of re-routing bandwidth to help you maintain connectivity. Security is another element in which the eero is strong—unlike many devices which rely on you to figure out and install security updates, the eero does it automatically. Lastly for those who want their network to be as secure as possible the eero Plus subscription service provides additional security, specialist software tools and more for an annual fee. Info: eero.com.

PHILIPS HUE

eero Pro Wifi

One of the best uses Wi-Fi network can offer is to control your lighting. Just imagine having lights which know you are about to arrive home (triggered by your cell phone), or dim and even change their color. The Philips Hue system is one of the best on the market. One of their latest developments which makes the system even more innovative is controlling outdoor low voltage lighting. Now arrive home and have the driveway and paths illuminated. Having a party and want the light to reflect the colors of your favorite sports team? A relative arriving late at night? Simply use the app to remotely activate the lights—done! The Philips Hue Calla light is connected outdoors and plugs into a low voltage cable which connects to the main power supply via a supplied transformer. With a Philips Hue Bridge you can change the colors and control remotely. You mean you do not already have this on order? Info: meethue.com. •

Philips Calla Hue

Philips Hue System

52 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | AUGUST 2019


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TRAVEL

British Airways

CROSSING THE POND IN STYLE BRITISH AIRWAYS REDEFINES LUXURY By Bailey Beckett

oing across the pond.” It’s an affectionate term often used to describe the US-toEngland journey, as if 3,400 miles of frigid sea did not separate the two. But it’s an appropriate phrase to use when talking about British Airways and its Club World service between the two great friends. The airline, which celebrates its 100th anniversary this summer, has perfected the Transatlantic experience, offering discerning and travel-weary passengers a flawless flight to and from Great Britain. As resident snob-in-chief, I recently surveyed the flight and present my “cross-the-pond” travelogue, written expertly in my Hermes diary. Standards, people. Standards.

NYC 3 am Who is making all that racket? Oh, it’s the alarm clock.

British Airways

4:15 am A friendly text from Asad, my driver from Precision NY, a chauffeur and airport transfer service that will be taking me to JFK this morning. “Good morning,” the happy text reads. “I’m on location, so whenever you are ready, please let me know.” Glad to know someone is cheerful this early. 4:30 am Asad greets me at the door and expertly stows my baggage into the back of a sleek, shining black Lincoln MKT, the auto maker’s luxury SUV model. Chilled bottles of water, glossy magazines, large leather seats and a friendly driver makes the car service the perfect beginning of the journey. Info: precisioncarsnyc.com. 4:55 am Check in at the British Airways. I’m greeted by another cheerful morning person who tickets my reservation effortlessly, with no wait. I mention I’m doing a diary of my flight for BA’s 100th anniversary and her face lights up. “I’ve been with BA for 37 years!” she says enthusiastically. I look at her amazing morning skin and express my doubts at her age. “Well, I started at five years old,” she jokes. 5:15 am A whiz through security gets me to the BA Galleries Lounge in an instant, and I am dazzled at the renovation. The once tired looking space is now modern, sophisticated and, gasp, stylish after a $30 million facelift. Now 22,000 square feet, the lounge includes a granite topped Quaich Bar with a full range of wines and spirits; buffet of delicious hot and cold morning fare (the vanilla yogurt and granola is especially tasty); multiple rooms and areas to rest; flawless Wi-Fi sign in and speed; the day’s newspapers already spread out at 5 am; and fawning service by attendants who do everything but foot rubs. 54 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | AUGUST 2019


7 am The flight is called. The walk from the Galleries to the gate is conveniently quick, and I’m delighted to see the renovation has extended to the whole terminal, which is pristine, easy to navigate and features a much better class of shopping. After a walk down the jetway I’m met by two flight attendants who greet me warmly and escort me to a flatbed recliner in Club World. The seats are among the largest in the business class category, with a width of 20 inches, length of six feet and a 180 inch recline. Configured in a 2-by-2 layout (your fellow passenger sits diagonal to you separated by a walled screen for privacy) passengers are afforded pillows and luxury linens by The White Company, as well as an amenity kit with all of life’s essentials. More resembling a pod, the seats also include plentiful bulkhead for storage space, as well as a private drawer for shoes and gadgets.

feet in the air. The bed is comfortable and sleep restful. When’s the last time you could say that aboard an airplane?

7:55 am The take-off is smooth and easy, barely noticeable. The plane reaches cruising level in no time, starting the 6.5-hour journey in style.

9:50 am Flight attendant comes bearing gifts, err, gift: Glenlivet. Someone back there must be a mixologist because it’s just right: glittering rocks, a splash of water, heaven. “I’ll be seeing you again,” I wink at her. And I will. Because there’s a button in the console that summons her, providing you are friendly and respectful. Just how serious is BA about scotch? Even Bailey was impressed: the airline has partnered up with Scottish distiller InchDairnie to create a limitededition whisky that will be debuted in 2031 for “World Whisky Day.” That’s 12 years of distilling, people.

8:30 am The attendant comes to take my breakfast order. There’s plenty to indulge on the early morning menu: salmon with horseradish sauce and croissants. According to British Airways Chief Menu Designer Mark Tazzioli, there are 250 meals in rotation on all flights, including 18 regional selections for exotic destinations like China and India. The menus are created six months ahead, and sourcing local ingredients from England, like produce, cheeses like Croxton, English lamb and Aberdeen Angus beef is a priority. You can also order your meal 24 hours ahead. 8:35 am Nap time! I fold out the flat bed, unwrap my White Company mattress and sheets, put on my eye mask and take a short snooze 30,000

9:15 am Breakfast arrives and is perfection, served with shiny flatware, table cloth and my obligatory morning Diet Coke (one of many). The salmon was fresh and succulent, bursting with cold flavor. And the croissants were fluffy and buttery, as if they’d been baked in the galley behind. 9:45 am Begin searching for a movie from one of hundreds of inflight entertainment options on British Airways. The headphones are unusually sharp and clear sounding, a welcome departure from most airlines’ inferior headsets. There are so many films—some just released— and it takes me a while to peruse the menu and find something to view.

12:30 pm With a little more than an hour left on the flight, the attendant asks if I’d like an end-of-flight snack: cakes, sandwiches, Cornish clotted cream, and English strawberry jam. According to BA’s Tazzioli, it’s the airlines most popular and signature meal. And for good reason! British Airways

British Airways

LONDON 7:30 pm Plane lands effortlessly at London Heathrow, and we are directed to Flying Club World which allows a fast passport/ immigration check-through Fast Pass; I’m through in less than 15 minutes. My bags await me on the conveyer belt, and am met soon after by a driver from iChaffeur who whisks me from Heathrow in a Mercedes S Class to my first stay at the at The Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park London (and later to Rosewood London). iChauffeur is considered the UK’s most elite car service, and has nine types of vehicles in its fleet, including the aforementioned Mercedes, as well as Bentley Mulsanne, Rolls Royce Phantom and Range Rover Vogues and Autobiography. Founded by Andrew Senior and his son Will and Richard, it includes more than 100 drivers among its staff. “Our aim, as always was, to redefine luxury travel,” Will says. Mission accomplished! Info: ichauffeur.com. 9:00 pm Safely ensconced for the night at the Hyde Park Suite at the Mandarin Oriental, I think “I can get used to this!” For more information on British Airways, visit britishairways.com.

AUGUST 2019 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 55


WHERE TO STAY THE MANDARIN ORIENTAL HYDE PARK LONDON Sitting between glorious Royal Parkland and the buzz of central Knightsbridge, this hotel offers the essence of heritage coupled with contemporary flair and impeccable service. As part of the most-extensive restoration in the hotel’s history, internationallyrenowned designer Joyce Wang oversaw the property’s entire design. The Mandarin, with 140 guest rooms and 40 suites, is also the only hotel in London to be located on Hyde Park—the perfect vantage to the Royal Horse Guards as they ride to Buckingham Palace. The Mandarin is also home to two of London’s most popular restaurants, Bar Boulud and Dinner by Heston Blumenthal, bringing the experience of two Michelin stars under one roof. Info: mandarinoriental.com. Rosewood London Grand Premier Suite ©Adrian Houston

Mandarin Oriental London

ROSEWOOD LONDON: Housed in the original headquarters of the Pearl Assurance Company, Rosewood London opened in October 2013 after a $100 million renovation of the 1914 Edwardian Belle Époque building, including the restoration of its street frontage and dome, and the grand Pavonazzo marble staircase which rises up through all seven stories of the hotel beneath the 166-foot cupola. Its 262 rooms and 44 suites, including nine signature suites, referred to as “houses,” all convey the feel of stylish London residences. In particular, The Grand Manor House Wing, an exclusive seven-bedroom suite, welcomes guests via its own private entrance and is the only set of rooms in the world to possess its own postcode. Info: rosewoodhotels.com.

WHERE TO EAT SCOTT Purported to be the second oldest restaurant in London, Scott’s began as an oyster warehouse in 1851 and has since evolved into one of the most fashionable and glamorous seafood restaurants in London, famed as the site of Ian Fleming’s discovery of the dry martini “shaken, not stirred.” Combining Art Deco glamour with glittering heritage, Scott’s features a menu of fish and seafood favorites alongside a variety of meat and seasonal game. Of particular note is its private dining: its walls are clad with pieces of Verre Églomisé artwork, creating the feel of an under the sea playground filled with fantastical fish and plants. Info: scotts-restaurant.com. LE CAPRICE With its black and white décor, John Swannell photographs and long dining bar, Le Caprice is a model of urban elegance, but its reputation runs deeper. Opened in 1947 by Mario Gallati, former Maître d’ of The Ivy, it was relaunched in 1981 and quickly became a social institution with a devoted international clientele. Head Chef Will Halsall’s imaginative menu includes dishes like Korean Spiced Pork Belly with Kimchee, Mull Scallops with a bright Chili and Garlic Butter; and Dressed Dorset Crab with Sharp Green Apple, Celeriac and Dill. Info: le-caprice.co.uk.

Scott’s Bakewell Pudding with ice cream

34 MAYFAIR There is the tiniest hint of the nonconformist about this restaurant, whether it be the mischievous etchings by Tracey Emin, entrees like decadent Truffled Lobster Mac, or eclectic collection of paintings adorning the walls. Head Chef Harvey Ayliffe’s menu is based around the bespoke Argentine parilla grill, with a fine selection of beef, seasonal game, and fish and a diverse wine list. Info: 34-restaurant.co.uk. 34 Mayfair

Le Caprice interior ©James McDonald courtesy of MBDS

CUT Located on the ground floor of 45 Park Lane, London’s smooth cool boutique hotel, Wolfgang Puck’s CUT is his first restaurant in Europe. Presenting a modern take on the classic American steak restaurant, it features the widest selection of beef available in London. The prices are steep—think nothing of a $240 Japanese Pure Wagyu Beef Kyushu Prefecture—but its sexy, intimate atmosphere will put a gloss to the bill (if that doesn’t work, then try a pan-roasted lobster and seasonal salads). Rivaling the menus is the scenery: leafy Hyde Park shines beyond the windows. Info: wolfgangpuck.com/dining. • 56 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | AUGUST 2019


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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

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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!


REAL ESTATE & YOUR HOME

AROUND TOWN WEST CHELSEA By TJ Johnson

est Chelsea has changed! No more shooting grungy music videos showcasing the dark days of the West Side in NYC, or calling Tenth Avenue “death avenue.” They’re gone. Now it is one of the most sought-after places to live in and invest money. Tenth Avenue now features the famous High Line Park and numerous luxury living spaces. Let’s discuss a few new buildings featured in West Chelsea and some places to eat and enjoy.

CALEDONIA Located at 450 West 17th Street, the Caledonia offers luxury apartments ideally situated in the middle of West Chelsea, the West Village, and the Meatpacking District. The building is a unique and great addition to West Chelsea. It is worth taking a tour. Located on the High Line and featuring an interior meditation garden, The Caledonia embraces the idea of bringing the outside indoors with a perfect balance of energy and serenity. HM White Site Architects created a contemplative Zen garden and landscaped rooftop courtyards and gardens. Green roof technology is employed to create an effective “false ground” landscape that supports a range of flexible exterior uses. Handel Architects, along with the interior design firm of Clodagh, designed the building and its interior spaces to reflect both the city and nature. A block-through promenade draws natural light to the interior spaces and welcomes residents with a refreshing sense of openness and movement. The Caledonia offers exquisite studio, one- and twobedroom residences offering incredible views of the city. Pricing starts at $1.2 million for a studio. 58 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | AUGUST 2019

The High Line


551 WEST 21ST STREET Our next building designed by the world-renowned Norman Foster is a new luxury condominium building. This 19-story condo will feature 44 individual residences, each ranging from two- to five bedrooms, as well as three penthouses which will occupy the top three levels of the tower. Each residence in this building will have access to private elevators. Expansive windows will allow residents to enjoy ample natural light throughout the day, while the upper-level units will enjoy magnificent panoramic views across the Hudson River. The designers and developers of 551 West 21st Street have implemented vigorous flood-proof measures, including a waterproof concrete wall which will sit 6 feet above ground level. The bottom two floors of the building will be occupied by 303 Gallery, featuring contemporary artwork. Pricing starts at $1.95 million for a one bedroom.

551 West 21st Street

VESTA 24

Caledonia Property Terrace

There are some beautiful boutique condo buildings located on the High Line. One, in particular, is called the Vesta 24 Building. When the building was constructed in 2004, it sold out in 36 hours! Located at 231 Tenth Ave on the High Line, this is a full-service condo with a full-time superintendent. Each unit boasts floor-to-ceiling windows with a great modern design and a beautiful wood facade. It is a rare opportunity to buy one of these apartments because they are never available. Right now, my team has a beautiful two bedroom/two bath apartment (#7B) for sale in the Vesta 24 Building. The owner is offering free maintenance and taxes for a year. This is an excellent opportunity to own a beautiful apartment on the High Line. Pricing is $2.15 million.

THE NEIGHBORHOOD Now let’s talk about a couple of my favorite restaurants when I’m wandering the streets of West Chelsea. With the arrival of the High Line and a neighborhood rezoning, it has spurred developers and world-class architects to soar to new heights. Along with this transformation also comes trendy new restaurants to search out. El Quinto Pino Located on West 24th Street, it is one of my favorites and it is one of the most delicious tapas places in the city. El Quinto Pino is a multiregional Spanish tapas bar from Alex Raij and Eder Montero. Big ideas in small food are born here every day with a menu rooted in tradition. You’ll enjoy the unique take on classic dishes and an off-the-beaten-path wine list. Above all, they are inspired by the tapas tradition and their ability to bring people together. Info: elquintopinonyc.com. Ovest Pizzoteca is located off the High Line on West 27th Street. If woodfire pizza, delicious pasta dishes, and a great bar is your “thing,” I suggest spending some time here the next time you are nearby. You will not be disappointed when you leave this great establishment. Info: ovestnyc.com. Thelonious “TJ” Johnson is a licensed broker with Brown Harris Stevens, teamed with Ogden Starr, who enjoys sharing his tips on his favorite city. If you are looking for a residence in West Chelsea—or anywhere else throughout the city—contact the Starr-Johnson Team for your buying/selling needs. Info: bhusa.com/real-estate-agent/thelonious-tj-johnson. •

Ovest Pizzoteca

AUGUST 2019 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 59


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Beautiful lakefront home with an inground pool that overlooks the lake! This spacious home features soaring ceilings in many rooms and walls of windows to capture the view! The 2 story entry foyer opens to the 2 story living room with a dual fireplace and flows into the family room overlooking the lake. There are doors to the rear patio and pool. The kitchen with an island and breakfast bar opens to the lovely dining area with a wall of windows framing the view. The formal dining room, a billiard room and a den complete the first floor entertaining / living space. A second floor master has a stunning view, a private deck, a walk in closet dressing area PLUS a new bath. An adjacent bedroom connects to a bonus room, plus there are 2 additional bedrooms, a full bath, 4 car tandem garage and waterfront dock. Enjoy the Pines Lake lifestyle! Offered at $1,399,000

1058 Pines Lake Drive

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Upon entering you are immediately WOWED by the high ceilings and the expansive views of Pines Lake! The open concept floor plan features a gourmet kitchen with a huge island plus a dining area with glass doors opening to a beautiful covered balcony. This space flows into the family room with a fireplace & all are enhanced by walls of windows with stunning views across the back of the house. A formal dining room is great for entertaining & includes a large butler’s pantry. The entry foyer features a dual fireplace that also opens into the living room. Wake up to the water view in the gorgeous master bedroom suite with a private balcony, spa bath, walk in closet & a custom barrel ceiling with cove lighting. There are 3 additional bedrooms, a full bath & laundry on the second floor. The finished lower level adds lots of entertaining space with a game room, wet bar, plus a gym & full bath, which could become a bedroom suite. Glass doors access a covered patio. Plus a waterfront dock! Come see the beautiful lifestyle of lakefront living! Easy NYC commute! Offered at $1,459,000

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REAL ESTATE & YOUR HOME

WHEN ONLY THE FINEST WILL DO he most elegant Senior Assisted Living Residence has been created in Las Vegas, Nevada. Sylvia Cortez, wife of renowned International Boxing Hall of Fame Referee Joe Cortez, announces the opening of La Mansion Luxurious Assisted Living Residence, a new exclusive family owned 5-Star senior assisted living residence nestled beneath the scenic mountain backdrop of Northwest Las Vegas. La Mansion is a spacious and lavishly adorned 18,000 sq. ft. private estate on five acres that has been transformed from the Cortez’s private home into 12 luxurious suites that will provide all-inclusive exquisite accommodations coupled with optimal assisted care for individuals or coupled seniors. The transformation to La Mansion from the Cortez family grand estate into a premier boutique senior assisted living residence has been a family’s labor of “Love”. The Cortez family resided at this family estate for 15 years. The home was customized to accommodate one of the Cortez daughters who was seriously injured in a car accident. The family was placed in a position where they had no experience or complete knowledge of how to provide care for their daughter. With the training and support from the amazing staff at Loma Linda Hospital, the family was given the tools to provide the special care to handle her life with compassion, patience, love and respect. “This life changing event brought our family even closer. We have had an amazing support system in place all these years. Because of all the adversities we were faced with, we have made it a priority to pay it forward”, says CEO and Founder Sylvia Cortez. La Mansion will be a place of solitude and peace coupled with lots of fun and excitement. It’s a place called “Home” where you are loved, pampered and provided personalized service designed exclusively for their residents. “We will consistently strive to offer an environment of unparalleled luxury and comfort, while providing the highest level of personalized professional care to our residents”, adds Mrs. Cortez.

AUGUST 2019 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 61


The residents of La Mansion will enjoy a lifestyle that will help them maintain their independence with first-class amenities such as a cozy, relaxing wine and cocktail lounge, 20-seat movie theater with luxury seating, private dining room for family and friends, professional gym with juice bar, sauna and steam room, and a creativity room with crafts and games. “Our goal was to create the most elegant assistant living setting for our residents that is unmatched to any other senior assisted living community”, adds Sandy Cortez, daughter of Sylvia Cortez, and CFO of La Mansion.

62 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | AUGUST 2019

With only 12 private suites on the premises, La Mansion offers an environment that is reminiscent of living at home. Each suite is custom designed with the finest in-home embellishments. Every room offers its own unique amenities such as beautiful balconies, built-in bookcases, and large walk in closets. The suite’s private bathrooms feature granite countertops, custom lighting and roll-in showers, as well as other Americans with Disabilities Act compliant amenities. La Mansion will also provide 24-hour premier concierge service which includes personalized resident care plans, world-class chef prepared healthy cuisine, pharmacy services and medication management, daily housekeeping and linen/laundry services, town car transportation, salon and barber services, and nearby hospital, shopping and restaurants. La Mansion is a place where you will feel safe and secure with controlled access and 24-hr Emergency Response Program.


The quiet and serene La Mansion estate provides great outdoor activities to take advantage of the beautiful Las Vegas climate. Residents can enjoy the beach entry tropical pool and clubhouse, breathtaking gardens and walking paths, raised herb, flower and vegetable gardens, putting green and bocce ball court. La Mansion is a senior living experience unlike any other. It’s a place where you are not just a resident, but an extension of our family. The La Mansion Care Team is passionate about providing the finest in care while getting to know their residents, as well as the families of their residents. If you have a loved one in need of assisted living care, and you want only the finest in luxury assisted senior living accommodations, La Mansion deserves your attention. Senior couples, where only one or both may be in need of care, can remain together at La Mansion for one cost.

TAKE A VIRTUAL TOUR ONLINE www.LaMansionLV.com

La Mansion Luxurious Assisted Living Residence is currently preleasing for their new residents. To schedule a visit or if you have any questions, please call RaNae Cemensky, Executive Director at 702-428-4232, or visit www.LaMansionLV.com. •

POOL & PATIO

You don't have to be a swimmer to appreciate the luxury of relaxing poolside

INSIDE LA MANSION Inside La Mansion - Come in and take a look around... resort style leisure spaces

GARDENS & GROUNDS LUXURY LIVING SUITES

Each uniquely decorated with luxurious details for a peaceful and comfortable environment

Explore the beauty of the meticulously landscaped gardens and walking paths

AUGUST 2019 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 63


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REAL ESTATE & YOUR HOME

WATERLINE SQUARE RETHINKING HOW YOU LIVE By AP Connolly

t’s been the most sought-after place to live for decades. If you’ve seen a leafy, residential neighborhood depicted on TV or in the movies, there’s a good chance it was the Upper West Side. It’s where Jerry made his home on Seinfeld (and in real life, too). The Upper West Side is loved by many because of the local flavor and the fact that the area is home to people from around the world and across all generations.

AUGUST 2019 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 65


The addition of Waterline Square represents an unprecedented approach to urban living and is precisely what the GID Development Group had in mind when they commissioned three architect firms to design an iconic collection of luxury residential buildings to complete one of the last remaining waterfront development sites on the Upper West Side of Manhattan. Picture three high rise towers on the Hudson River, all grounded within a new park and covering nearly five acres between West 59th Street and West 61st Street where Midtown meets the Upper West Side. The three acres of park situated at the center of Waterline Square are a picture of beauty featuring manicured lawns, sculptural fountains and a children’s playground. The sky-high state of the art designed luxury condos ranging in size from one to four bedrooms feature robust amenity offerings and combine with the new park setting to create a special place to live. The three glassy towers complement one another in their articulated facades, outdoor spaces and faceted crowns, and collectively create a bold architectural statement set against the backdrop of the New York City skyline. Waterlines Square’s beautiful interiors were designed by a dream team of interior designers who have each brought a new aesthetic to the development, including Champalimaud Design, Yabu Pushelberg, and Groves & Co.

Waterline Square

Three Waterline Square by Rafael Vinoly

THE RESIDENCES One Waterline Square (Richard Meier & Partners Architects) Here, Meier’s signature precision is reflected in the undulating glass and metal facade that offers visual interest from each exposure. At the top of the building, elegantly proportioned condominiums are graced with high ceilings, large banks of windows, and a rich selection of handpicked materials.

Two Waterline Square (Kohn Pedersen Fox Associates) The impressively scaled architecture is accentuated by a series of ascending set-back terraces at the top and a gracious porte cochère arrival at ground level. At the pinnacle of Two Waterline Square’s river-facing tower are its thoughtfully designed condominiums. High ceilings and oversized windows frame the remarkable water and skyline views, and the light-filled interiors enhanced with a rich selection of natural materials throughout, providing a truly refined sense of home. Three Waterline Square (Vinoly) Two Waterline Living and Dining Room Designed by lauded architect Rafael Viñoly, this tower stands proudly at the southeast corner of Waterline Square savoring the full landscape of the park at its base and meeting the sky with its dramatic crown. The faceted glass form is like no other, as visually arresting as masterful architecture can be. Condominiums are characterized by carefully expressed corners and gently sloping exterior walls, which fully optimize the water, park, and skyline views that surround these upper floors. Indulgent materials, layered with a modern hand, culminate in condominiums that offer stylish comfort and celebrate the captivating architecture. All three towers feature one to four bedrooms ranging from $1.875 to $17 million. 66 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | AUGUST 2019


THE AMENITIES Waterline Square provides a variety of residential lifestyle opportunities throughout its three residential towers. The amenity offering at Waterline Square is one of the largest and most comprehensive in New York City. The development’s extraordinary shared amenity program, The Waterline Club, connects all three buildings and has been designed by David Rockwell’s famed hospitality group, Rockwell Group. The incredible space features more than 100,000 square feet of best-in-class sports, leisure, and lifestyle amenities, including the first skate park inside a residential development in New York City and the first indoor, regulationsize tennis court at a residential development in New York City. There is also a beautifully landscaped, 2.6-acre park designed by Mathews Nielsen Landscape Architects at the heart of the development.

Nexus

Completing the comprehensive lifestyle offered at the development, Waterline Square will be home to two exceptional culinary offerings. Located within Two Waterline Square will be Cipriani’s first-ever large-scale culinary experience in the world. Featuring interior design by legendary hospitality designer Martin Brudnizki, the 28,000-square-foot concept will feature a multi-faceted food and beverage experience complete with a food and retail market with many specialty food counters, Cipriani’s largest bar in the world and a full-service restaurant. Additionally, Three Waterline Square will be home to renowned Mexican-inspired restaurant Empellón, from James Beard Award-nominated chef and founder Alex Stupak. The restaurant, scheduled to open in late 2019, will feature 3,298 square feet of interior space and 1,619 square feet of exterior space with a total of 140 seats. Two Waterline Square Terrace

For more information on Waterline Square, visit waterlinesquare.com. •

Three Waterline Square Terrace

AUGUST 2019 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 67


REAL ESTATE & YOUR HOME

ONE HUNDRED BARCLAY MODERN LUXURY IN TRIBECA By AP Connolly

ow and then, a home comes along that stuns. Whether you discover amazing views or fall in love with a unique floorplan, an emotion you can’t quite articulate takes over. At One Hundred Barclay Street in Tribeca—the world’s first Art Deco skyscraper by renowned architect Ralph Walker—the spectacular Duplex Penthouse provides the inexplicable “wow” factor of a true masterpiece. Originally conceived as the headquarters for the New York Telephone Company in 1927 the building has been heralded as “one of the most significant structures in skyscraper design,” by the New York City Landmarks Preservation Commission. Today, it is the height of loft living and offers more amenities than any other Tribeca address. After careful study of the many architectural and design opportunities for the Penthouse, the layouts were indeed deemed limitless, including space for up to seven bedrooms. CIM Group and Magnum Real Estate Group know that a discerning buyer wants the ability to design and customize the home to suit their lifestyle. 68 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | AUGUST 2019

100 Barclay Street


THE RESIDENCE The Penthouse spans over 14,500 square feet and occupies the entirety of the building’s top two floors. The home features private keyed elevator access along with a private elevator landing with custom marble mosaic flooring which leads to a windowed gallery entrance. With one of the most extensive continuous art walls in New York, the Penthouse is a blank canvas for a serious collector with abundant space for sculptures and extraordinary pieces of museum-level scale. The Penthouse features the largest-known living room in New York City, which is 96 feet long by 32 feet wide and boasts over 3,000 square feet of space. Iconic skyline and water views are even more spectacular through the residence’s signature, dramatic arched windows, some of which span 9 feet wide and rise to 20 feet tall. The owner will enjoy a sprawling 1,000+ square foot entertainment kitchen with butlery, dining area, a pass-through 630 bottle wine cellar, and after-dinner lounge with wet bar and fireplace. Fireplace infrastructure is provided to create a dramatic double-height focal point. The uses of this space are infinite—casual morning breakfast, intimate dinners, and a demonstration kitchen for a chef, professional kitchen to support multi-course dinner parties, and more. The kitchen has Calacatta Gold marble countertops and backsplash, oak cabinetry and Franke sinks. A top-of-the-line Gaggenau appliance package includes fully integrated dual refrigerators and dual freezers, dual convection ovens, a cooking range with eight burners and griddle, and induction cooktop. The accessory cooking suite includes: steamer, fryer, and teppanyaki, high-performance hood and fully integrated dual dishwashers. In addition to the great room and kitchen, the 32nd floor offers a completely customizable 1,300+ square feet of additional space. Powder rooms on the first level feature European Oak Herringbone floors, Zebrino marble walls, Noir St. Laurent marble vanity with Dornbracht fixtures and custom blackened steel medicine cabinet. The second floor of The Penthouse is over 5,000 square feet of a blank canvas. More significant than most penthouses in the city, this floor alone offers a myriad of possibilities to create a perfectly tailored residence.

THE AMENITIES The building’s entrance on Barclay Street features a custom steel and glass canopy with built-in lighting and heat lamps. An arrival lobby, designed by the esteemed Jeffrey Beers International, features paneled millwork walls, atelier-style furnishings, and a gold leaf ceiling above. The landmarked Art Deco Grand Lobby with Ralph Walker-designed vaulted ceiling and hand-painted ceiling murals depicts the historical advancement of human communication. The dramatic set-back of One Hundred Barclay reveals four individually programmed terrace experiences, which offer iconic water and cityscape vistas, all from the 18th floor, an elevation of 264 feet. Furnished and landscaped, each terrace is accessible from the Club Level. The Club Level includes a lounge with a bar and dining room, a wine tasting room with surrounding individual wine storage lockers for purchase. There is a media room along with a popular children’s playroom, designed in conjunction with Tribeca’s Playgarden and several music practice rooms with a piano. The Fitness Center and Spa features interiors by Timothy Godbold including mosaic speeding nooks in the pool area and custom millwork, with The Wright Fit designed- and programmedfitness center. Here, you’ll find a carefully curated, state-of-the-art cardio- and weight-training equipment along with an 82-foot lap pool, heated children’s wading pool, spa treatment rooms, steam room and sauna, and a yoga and Pilates studio with gyro-tonic open area ideal for personal training. Services include a 24-hour concierge and doorman, porter and handyman services, live-in resident manager, private move-in, delivery, and service entrance, cold storage, one gig internet, private wine storage, and private storage. Pricing is $39.95 million. For more information, contact Shaun Osher at CORE (sosher@ corenyc.com). • AUGUST 2019 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 69


REAL ESTATE & YOUR HOME

THE PIERREPONT

CLASSIC LIVING IN BROOKLYN HEIGHTS By Cecilia Ruane

ituated in the heart of Brooklyn Heights, The Pierrepont is setting a new s t a n d a rd o f luxur y living in Brooklyn. Offering 90 high-quality apartment homes developed by Jonathan Rose Companies and Bedrock LLC, this collection of generously proportioned onetwo- and three-bedroom layouts is conveniently situated in close proximity to outstanding schools, parks and cultural destinations. In keeping with the developer’s mission to create green communities that are healthier for both residents and their neighborhoods, The Pierrepont features an environmentallysustainable design that both meets and exceeds the standards of Enterprise Green Communities and promotes - healthy living, resource conservation, and energy efficiency. 70 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | AUGUST 2019

Rooftop


PEACE OF MIND “Our goal was to create an intimate sanctuary set within the heart of the exquisite shopping, dining and cultural experiences offered in Brooklyn Heights,” said Jonathan F.P Rose, President of Jonathan Rose Companies. “With a green design that gives residents peace of mind regarding their environmental footprint, well-rounded amenities to support physical and mental well-being, and expansive floorplans to increase comfort and ease, The Pierrepont invites residents to enjoy the benefits of Brooklyn Heights in a full-service building. Residents will have access to the neighborhood’s great schools and parks and an alternative to brownstone living.” Designed by Marvel Architects, the building is a modern interpretation of the historic Brooklyn Heights neighborhood. Comprised of two 20-story towers, The Pierrepont is connected by a two-story common area centered around a garden and children’s play area. “With a great deal of respect for the architecture of the neighborhood, the design reflects the deep-rooted history of Brooklyn Heights,” said Carole Bloom of The Bloomstone Group. “Along with the help of Marvel Architects, we created the perfect balance of blending with the charming pre-war architecture and storied past of the neighborhood and standing out with a forward-thinking design.”

The Pierpont

THE RESIDENCES

Courtyard

The spacious one, two, and three-bedroom residences, designed by Fogarty Finger, offer expansive windows with views of Manhattan, the East River, and Downtown Brooklyn, bringing in incredible natural light, generous closets, and elegant finishes. In keeping with the sustainability-centric view of the building, the kitchens feature environmentally-friendly stainless-steel appliances, solid-surface counters, ceramic tile backsplashes, and oversized islands. The bathrooms include large walk-in showers, spacious double vanities, and a four-fixture master bath. There are also vented washing machines and dryers in each unit and some units also have their own private outdoor terraces.

AMENITIES The wellness-centric amenities include a fitness center, yoga and training room, meditation room, library, and private Zen garden. The Pierrepont also offers a private dining room, living room, an indoor and outdoor children’s play area, and a rooftop terrace. Located within these common spaces is a selection of curated artwork commissioned from an impressive roster of emerging female artists. The artwork was chosen to act as an extension of wellness and to support the residents’ wellbeing, both physically and emotionally. The Pierrepont offers convenient access to the city, surrounding historic communities and beautiful waterfront parks including the 85-acre Brooklyn Bridge Park, a destination for outdoor activities thanks to its beach volleyball courts, landscaped foot trails, themed playgrounds and stunning city views. Amazing restaurants, gourmet grocers and specialty purveyors of imported and organic food and the Brooklyn Borough Hall Greenmarket also border the Pierrepont. Within close proximity are some of New York’s top schools and cultural centers. The Pierrepont is a partnership with Jonathan Rose Companies, Bedrock Real Estate Partners, JD Capital USA and Nuveen Real Estate. “We were pleased to invest in such a fantastic location,” said Steven Li of JD Capital USA. “Brooklyn Heights is one of the most sought-after neighborhoods in the city, and The Pierrepont will make a great addition.” Leasing is exclusively being handled by The Bloomstone Group; pricing is $4,250 (one bedroom), $6,500 (two bedroom), and $9,250 (three bedroom). For more information on The Pierrepont, visit thepierrepontbk.com. •

Pierpont interior

AUGUST 2019 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 71


MONEY MATTERS

WOMEN AND CARS A HAPPY MARRIAGE By Jenny Peters

id you know that women in America buy 62 percent of all the new cars purchased in the U.S.? And that women influence more than 85 percent of all car purchases made in America? That’s according to a Cars.com study, which also shows that women are more practical than men when it comes to their vehicles, with practicality at the top of their buying considerations. But what about all those women with the need for speed and style in their automobile? The ones who love to feel the wind in their hair and the muscle power of a true sports car under their control? At a recent “Heels and Wheels” event held exclusively for female automotive writers, that offered 18 vehicles from all the major manufacturers for test driving, the two cars that every woman there was vying to drive were the two sleekest (and fastest) of the bunch. So ladies, if the spirit moves you to get out of the sedan or SUV you’ve been happily tooling around in, consider these two incredible vroom-vroom cars that will make you feel like a female James Bond (seriously, the Aston Martin described is Bond’s newest car, featured in the coming 25th iteration of 007’s cinematic life).

THE 2019 ASTON MARTIN DBS SUPERLEGGERA Just looking at the smooth, sleek lines of Aston Martin’s 2019 DBS Superleggera will make any car lover’s heart beat just a little bit faster. Driving it just makes you love it even more, as its V12cylinder twin-turbo engine turns your heart into a juggernaut just by mashing on the gas. Flick your hair back and really get going in the Volante, the convertible version of this Aston Martin dream car. With a carbonfiber body, rear spoiler and that incredible 5.2-liter engine, you can get this beauty up to 211 mph—of course, that might entail a visit from the cops, depending on where you open her up—and a more legal pace will still make you feel you’re encased in a space ship, handling the controls with aplomb. Everything about this British-made car is beautiful, from its gorgeous exterior to the incredibly comfortable and spacious leather-encased interior with automatic temperature control, Bluetooth audio and streaming, as well as options featuring ventilated seats and a Bang & Olufsen audio system. It’s no surprise that driving a spectacular vehicle worthy of James Bond doesn’t come easily. The 715 horsepower Aston Martin DBS Superleggera’s base price is $303,695 and it gets 22.9 mpg. But this is a car any woman (or man) who loves to drive is bound to adore. Info: astonmartin.com/en-us/models/dbs-superleggera.

THE 2019 CHEVROLET CORVETTE ZR1 Perhaps the quintessential American sports car, the 2019 Chevrolet Corvette is taking things to a whole new level with the ZR1. This supercharged version has a 6.2-liter V8 with a fuel-injection system that delivers 755 hp. Why, you might ask, does anyone need that kind of power? For the sheer enjoyment of driving it is the easy answer, for this Vette is not only a roaring beast but also a complete attention getter. There’s no way to drive this animal without drawing stares, whether you’re on a crowded city street or letting out on a highway’s straightaway. There’s nothing at all practical about the Corvette ZR1, from its low-slung front (be careful around speed bumps and potholes) to the two-seater interior to what can only be called its “joke” trunk. But a car like this makes you want to throw caution to the wind, grab the one you love and take off with a roar. You can do that for a base price of $121,995 and if you have to ask what the gas mileage is, this supercar probably doesn’t belong in your garage. Info: chevrolet.com/performance/corvette-zr1-supercar. •

72 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | AUGUST 2019



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Georgian Lakeside Resort

Marine Village Resort

Sun Castle Resort

Located in the heart of Lake George Village, this full service resort offers accommodations, dining, and event hosting. With short walks to everything, The Georgian has a beautiful lakeside location with 157 rooms and suites. The resort has a lakefront pool, patio and Cabana Bar. Dining is offered at Giovanna’s on the Lake with entertainment in the Terrace Room overlooking the lake. Georgian guests enjoy free concerts, lake cruises as well as Six Flags Great Escape theme park, all nearby.

Family resort located in the center of Lake George that features a 300-foot beach to relax and play. Docks are available for guest boats or boat rentals. Relax with family and friends on the large patio and pool area. The Morgan Restaurant serves made to order breakfasts daily and grills are available throughout the property for guest use. Perfect choice for those who prefer a location with a short walk to the village while offering a host of resort activities.

The resort spans 15 acres of luxurious lakefront property. Outdoor activities abound with 2 beaches, a heated outdoor pool and 2 children’s playground areas. Modern townhomes offer 2-bedroom, 2.5 baths, full kitchens, dining area and living room. 2-bedroom villas offer outstanding lake views from the living room and private balconies overlooking beautiful Lake George and the Adirondack Mountains. Guests have dining privileges at The Inn at Erlowest, the only AAA 4 Diamond Restaurant in the region located on the same property.

384 Canada Street, Lake George, NY 12845 1-800-525-3436 / 1-800-LAKE-GEORGE georgianresort.com

370 Canada Street, Lake George, NY 12845 1-800-727-7090 / 1-518-668-5478 marinevillageresort.com

3178 Lake Shore Dr., Lake George, NY 12845 1-518-668-2085 Suncastleresort.com

Scotty’s Lakeside Resort

Surfside On The Lake Hotel

The Quarters at Lake George

Newly rejuvenated and located on 7 expansive acres in Lake George Village and 350 ft. of beautiful shoreline, the resort is a place for fun with friends and family. Enjoy the large sandy beach or the beachside pool. Canoe, paddleboat, an interactive arcade, beach volleyball, and Scotty’s Café and Beachfront Bar offer plenty of activities to fill the days.

Located in Lake George Village, Surfside is an independent family owned 154 room resort featuring 41 Suites, some with two bedrooms and many rooms have a view of Lake George or Lakefront with private balconies. Surfside has a private sandy beach on Lake George, an outdoor heated pool and 3100 square foot rooftop cabana bar. The Club Hamilton restaurant serves breakfast.

Located less than 1 mile from The Village of Lake George, the former summer home of Georgia O’keeffe. Luxurious vacation rentals feature newly remodeled lakefront accommodations with spacious, private units with abundant amenities and breathtaking views of the Adirondacks. From cozy fireplaces and jacuzzis to private balconies, beach access and outdoor grills, the townhouses at The Quarters have it all. Open all year long.

2896 Lake Shore Dr., Lake George, NY 12845 1-877-749-0930 scottyslakesideresort.com

400 Canada Street, Lake George, NY 12845 1-518-668-2442 surfsideonthelake.com

3014 Lake Shore Dr., Lake George, NY 12845 1-518-668-4901 lakegeorgeresorts.com

AUGUST 2019 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 75


HEALTH & WELLNESS

LOVE AND RESPECT YOUR LIFE By Peter M. Kalellis

ove is a state of being. One of our greatest needs is to know that we are accepted and loved. Each one of us has to feel certain, deep down in our heart, that someone loves us, cares for us, and has our best interests at heart. That is a deep-rooted need in everyone’s inner self—our psyche. Imagine if all human relationships began with the belief that people are innately wonderful and beautiful—and with an inner capacity to love. It may be hard to believe this, yet beyond our superficiality, we are people with a potential for love. We need to learn to respect the image and likeness of God in ourselves and others and be part of love as the one great reality in which we can all live. With practice, we will realize that we can look through others instead of just at them; we will understand others with a capacity to love despite some outwardly unloving behaviors. Why take the trouble? Because we do live in the world and because our peace of mind and health of body and soul are dependent on the relationships we establish with others.

GIVE IT SOME THOUGHT Remind yourself, as you travel down the road of life that you are your own person, a good human being, and you can do good things for yourself and others. And if someone in your path mistreats you, or tries to tear you down, or blocks your growth with negative thoughts, try to understand that these people project on you their mental conditions. At best, avoid them for they can ruin your life. Thoreau once said that he could call no man charitable who forgets that the persons who work for him or with him are made of the same clay as himself. To put it simply: we need to move from love platitudes to loving attitudes and actions. We don’t need to aim for the stars because we cannot reach them. Their light makes nights a pleasant sight. Sometimes, we tend to admire and subtly wish to imitate certain celebrities that we see either in the movies or on television. But let’s be realistic and not beat ourselves up with such a superhuman delusion. Superman and Superwoman are illusions meant to excite our senses and lead to a fantasy world. We do admire the rich and famous, movie stars, accomplished athletes, authors, and artists. Does anyone of us know what their real life is, and how they feel off the stage? Can you or I live an exciting, successful, wealthy, super life as proclaimed in magazines and television? We cannot be like anybody else. We can only be who we are, and that’s okay. Accept our true self, love and respect our being. Today, not tomorrow or next week, today at this hour. Why not bank and cherish our assets—capabilities, talents, gifts that God gave us? Look deeper into yourself and see which is your better gift. Well, don’t wait. It is your choice to pursue it. You will be happier. • 76 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | AUGUST 2019

We can only be who we are… Accept our true self, love and respect our being.


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HEALTH & WELLNESS

STAYING HEALTHY ON THE GO By Gerrie Summers

et’s face it. Travel is fun, adventurous and even rejuvenating. But sometimes sleepless nights, sudden pains, and even foot problems can interfere with your getaway. What’s a traveler to do? Take a peek at the latest innovations to make any trip—be it business or pleasure—a more enjoyable one. PROBLEM #1: INSOMNIA You’re on the road in new surroundings in a different time zone. All of this can contribute to losing sleep. But there’s also something known as the “first night effect.” It’s your first night in a new setting and you wake up in the middle of the night. It’s a real thing. It’s something that helped our ancestors before using watch dogs and alarm systems, stay alert when in unfamiliar environments. According to Brown University research, part of the brain is on night watch, staying alert to potential dangers and strange sounds like footsteps, or movement outside your door and snaps you out of dreamland. Something that can help is to bring with you an item that makes you feel comfortable (like a pillow) or doing something to help you get into sleep mode (like listening to relaxing music). Creators of the Dreampad Pillow have a brand new, portable version to help you sleep when you’re on the go. It is a slim, standalone pad that can be slipped into any sized pillowcase/ pillow to use in a hotel, motel, even a sleeping bag. It easily fits into your carryon. The pad (which has a water-resistant, removable washable cover) has bone conduction technology to transmit music from devices through the included Bluetooth receiver to your inner ear. No worries, sleeping partners will not hear it. Just upload the updated app with music selections developed by Dreampad and a Spotify playlist. Info: dreampadsleep.com.

PROBLEM #2: ANXIETY

PROBLEM #3: SORE NECK MUSCLES

Breathing exercises can have a positive effect on your body. Controlled breathing can calm the nervous system and therefore your stress levels— often raised during the sometimes hectic experiences (read: delayed flights, weather conditions, etc.). Welcome CalmiGo a device small enough to fit in the palm of the hand, which helps with breath control. It has lights and vibration feedback to guide you to regulate your breath according to your needs at a given moment. It’s simple to use. Inhale and then exhale into the mouthpiece. Three lights turn on one after the other until you’ve reached the desired exhalation length. It teaches you to have a relaxed, slow and calm exhalation that you repeat for at least three minutes (or as needed) until you feel a sense of relief. During inhalations a delicate scent is produced by the scented element to further assist in relaxation. Info: calmigo.com.

We can all experience neck pain, especially when traveling for business and you’re already stressed wanting to make connecting flights on time. The solution is a better travel pillow. The NeckSmith from HealWell Solutions is the only FDA-approved inflatable neck pain relief brace/pillow that can help alleviate discomfort associated with stress, poor posture and pinched nerves. With an ergonomic design, it gently stretches and relaxes your shoulder and neck. It can also help reduce headaches and shoulder pain. Also, good for home and office, it has a soft flannel fabric and folds up compactly to easily take wherever you may go. The gray model comes with a 6-inch neck extension for larger necks. Info: thenecksmith.com.

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PROBLEM #4: AVOID GERMS Do you know where the most germ-filled area is on a commercial airplane? If you guessed the bathroom, you’re wrong! Though you probably want to thoroughly wash your hands and use sanitizer after touching the flush button, the dirtiest, nastiest places are the tray tables and seat back pockets! While seats get wiped and trash gets collected after flights, there isn’t enough time to sanitize each and every tray between flights. While airlines are well-aware of bathrooms and other common areas needing disinfecting, seat back pockets are rarely cleaned and you don’t know what might have been left in them. Airplane Pockets can be used to cover the tray table and fillin as your own private seat back pockets. It conveniently fits inside your carry-on and has enough room and storage for your personal items. Made of machine washable stretch fabric, it should be on your list for the next journey. Even better: Fifty percent of all profits go to the Homeless Not Toothless nonprofit that provides free dental care to homeless veterans and foster children. Info: airplanepockets.com. Our second recommendation is from Seat Sitters which contains a seat cover, tray table cover, a face mask (protection from sneezes, allergens, and coughs), plus two sanitary wipes to use on the arm rest—and don’t forget the touch screen—and a hand sanitizer. The kit is also perfect for long-distance travel on a train and bus. Seat Sitters comes in kits for adults and kids, with a convenient carrying bag with shoulder strap. The covers are reusable and can be washed in cold water, in the delicate cycle. Info: seatsitters.com.

PROBLEM #5: ACHING FEET Summer sandals, especially flats and flip flops, send a lot of wearers to the podiatrist office. Podiatrists don’t recommend them for extensive walking because they offer zero arch support, which leads to foot pressure and pain. Plus there’s no shock absorption, no heel cushioning or ankle support, the latter of which can lead to balance problems. Have you ever tripped in flip flops or had them fly off your feet if you try to run? Flip flops are great for the beach or pool, but for more extensive walking you need sturdy soles. Wiivv Custom Fit Footwear makes bespoke insoles and sandals. The Women’s Custom Fit Sandals are custom made via a 3D technology to create custom arches, adjustable, interchangeable straps and a custom placed toe thong that you can reposition for comfort. They also feature a deep heel cup to stabilize the heels and absorb shock. Best of all they are waterproof and sweat proof. The sandals help reduce pressure of the plantar fascia and foot fatigue. A 3D scan helps identify flat feet and makes a supportive arch unique to your foot for a healthier alignment and custom support for high arches, to distribute even weight and pressure across the entire foot surface. You just use the Wiivv app and take a photo of your feet and the app digitally maps each foot to create a 3D printable file unique to each foot—and you’re ready to order custom made insoles or sandals. Info: wiiv.com.

PROBLEM #6: TENSION HEADACHES There is a pressure point in traditional Chinese medicine called LI-4 (Hegu). By putting acupressure on this point you can relieve pain and headaches. You usually use the thumb and index finger on one hand on a space between the base of the thumb and index finger on the other hand to relieve muscle tension and promote blood circulation. But that can be tiring. Aculief is a wearable acupressure device that you can place on the LI-4 point to help you reduce tension and manage headaches (even migraines in some cases) hands-free. Also great for driving. (Note: It is not recommended for pregnant women.) Info: aculief.com. • AUGUST 2019 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 79


HEALTH & WELLNESS

ARE DISTRACTIONS EATING YOUR LIFE?

A CHECKLIST TO HELP YOU RECLAIM YOUR MENTAL SPACE By Anne Grady

ace it, friends, we check our phones out of habit nearly every six minutes. Standing in line at the grocery store? Pull out your phone. In an elevator? Check those messages. Commuting on the train. Text your colleague that you’re almost there! Did you know there are 260 million smartphones in use today in the U.S.—one for every adult, leading us to be more distracted than ever before? According to a recent study, Americans check their phones an average 80 times a day while on vacation, with some checking their screen more than 300 times each day. In addition to making us more distracted and prone to accidents, this also contributes to rising levels of stress as our attention is always pulled in different directions, leaving us unable to be present at the moment. Each time we are distracted, it sets us back from what we are trying to accomplish. And for every time you are interrupted, it takes an average of 23 minutes and 15 seconds for your brain to get back on task, according to a report from UC Irvine titled The Cost of Interrupted Work: More Speed and Stress. Surprisingly this study is more than a decade old and was published shortly after Apple launched the first iPhone. A quarter of a billion smartphones later, we wonder how that is working out for us.

ALL IS NOT BAD Not all distractions are damaging, however, as the authors of the UC study pointed out. Interruptions can be beneficial if they are related to the task at hand. But they can set you back when you are working on one job and interrupted by something completely unrelated. We all find ways to cope with this, and many distractions are, in fact, self-imposed. You may find it refreshing, for instance, to step away from a project to check the news or your email or that funny text a friend sent you. Or maybe you were among fans of HBO’s hit series Game of Thrones who chatted with friends about the show’s finale. It’s estimated engaging in office chatter about the series may have cost employers $3.3 billion in lost productivity. That’s just a fraction of the estimated $997 billion yearly cost to the U.S. economy attributed to lost productivity due to digital distractions. The solution? According to Udemy, an online learning platform, noisy, interruption-prone offices make employees unmotivated, stressed, and frustrated. It recommends employers could boost morale and profits by training employees to stay productive despite distractions. I don’t want to come off as self-righteous. I confess I check my phone regularly and half the time I don’t even realize I’m doing it. And that’s the problem— when we unconsciously allow anything to interrupt our mental processes and potentially shift our mood, we are giving away our mental real estate. Think about going on social media and seeing your friends’ carefree vacation photos when you are working. The next thing you know, you are telling yourself you are stuck at work and giving in to the proverbial FOMO—that’s fear of missing out. The second you do that, you relinquish control of your mood. And that can affect your entire day if you let it. Think about it: You wouldn’t just let someone move into your house without paying for it. So why are you giving away your mental space without being deliberate about who is taking it and what you are letting in? 80 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | AUGUST 2019


GAINING CONTROL I’m not suggesting you ditch your phone or get off all social media, but rather to take control. A sense of control reduces fear, anxiety, and stress. We don’t have to be ruled by the little screens or the constant urge to check them. Here is a checklist to determine if you need to reclaim mental real estate: Do you check your phone the minute you get out of bed? You just gave someone else permission to be in charge of your brain. Shawn Achor, the author of The Happiness Advantage, notes that the first and last 30 minutes of the day are the times when you are most vulnerable to having your attention hijacked. By relinquishing control first thing in the morning, you spend the rest of the day trying to recover. Try spending the first 30 minutes of your day meditating, reading something uplifting, listening to a podcast, or doing something that elevates your mood. For the last 30 minutes, focus on relaxation, ditch the screen, and set intentions for the next day. Do you find yourself habitually checking social media? Our need to check status, likes, comments, and be in the know seeps mental energy. Social media can be great if it helps you connect with others and build relationships, but not when it starts impacting your mood or causes you always to compare yourself with others. Doing that is just waging mental war with yourself. The next time you find yourself heading for a social media fix, ask yourself if it is serving you. Do you feel your attention being constantly drawn away from where you want to direct it? The only thing you can control is where you attune your attention. When you are stressed, you are attuned to that. You can numb it by going on Facebook for an hour, but what have you accomplished? Practice being intentional and consciously choosing where you want to focus your attention. Giving away mental real estate also happens when we ruminate about things we can’t control or wish we had done differently. It’s anytime you let someone or something live rent-free in your head, or dictate your mood or behavior. This is why meditation and mindfulness are so powerful. You are training your brain to direct attention where you want it, rather than where it goes by default. Identifying the distractions in your life and thinking about them in a new way can help you to reclaim your mental real estate. After all, just because you can buy beer all day long does not mean you should be drinking it all day! It’s the same with all those things that compete for your attention. Own your mind, and you will be able to reclaim your attention. For more information about Anne Grady, visit annegradygroup.com.

Anne Grady

Resilience expert Anne Grady is an internationally recognized speaker and author. Anne shares humor, humility, refreshing honesty, and practical strategies anyone can use to triumph over adversity and master change. She is the author of Strong Enough: Choosing Courage, Resilience, and Triumph, and 52 Strategies for Life, Love, & Work. • AUGUST 2019 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 81


FOOD & DRINK

RUSSIAN SAMOVAR RESTAURANT & PIANO BAR AUTHENTIC CUISINE WITH A SIDE OF ENTERTAINMENT By Peter Elston

he legendary Russian Samovar Restaurant and Piano Bar is unique in its long-standing ties with the art community and has become a home for many famous Russian poets and writers who keep coming back for the exceptional dining experience. Owned by Roman Kaplan and managed by his daughter Vlada Von Shats and her two sons, Michael and Nicholas, Russian Samovar offers some of the finest Russian cuisine in New York. Vlada, who has a background working for film studios in Los Angeles, joined the family business back in 1993. A decade later, she opened two nightclubs—one in New York and one in Miami—before she returned to Russian Samovar full time in 2016 to help add to the restaurant’s culinary and entertainment offerings.

A THEATER DISTRICT ORIGINAL A TOAST TO VODKA Enjoy a culinary experience in the 19thcentury accented dining room, complete with picturesque folk print conveniently located in the Theater District. Some of the lunch delicacies offered include the traditional Russian beet soup Borscht and Chicken Frikadelki soup (Chicken Meatballs and Vegetables in broth). Other musts include the Potato Vereniki (Potato Dumplings served with sour cream), Pelmeni (Chicken and Veal Dumplings), and Grilled Chicken Shashlik (Marinated Chicken Thighs grilled to perfection).

Aside from its authentic Russian dishes, the restaurant is known for its 26 flavored vodkas prepared in-house and include such favorites as Ginger, Horseradish, Lemon, and Cranberry. The craft of house-infusing vodkas is a tradition that goes back to restaurant proprietor Vlada’s childhood when her mother used to infuse vodka with various fruits and berries from their garden—a recipe that is still used in the restaurant today. Pair the flavored vodkas with delectable appetizers such as the Beluga and Osetra caviar, Blinis filled with salmon or caviar, the Assorted Fish Platter (in-house cured Salmon Gravlax with Dill, Smoked Atlantic Salmon and Smoked Butterfish), Vol-au-Vent (Wild Mushroom Puff Pastry), and Pate Russe laced with brandy. Indulge in the signatures entrees which have put Russian Samovar on the culinary map. Dishes like Shashlik Karski (Rack of Lamb marinated in Georgian spices), Beef Stroganoff, Veal Pozharksi (Ground Veal and Breast of Chicken Cutlets), Chicken Kiev, and Chicken Tabaka (Chicken Split and Grilled) are unforgettable.

A SWEET ENDING For dessert, diners can relish in the Zapekanka (Russian Cheesecake), the Soviet-inspired Crème Brûlée, or the Medovik (layered Honey Cake) to name a few. The Honey Cake with honey vodka is a favorite childhood dessert of Vlada’s, made with infused vodka. “I have fond memories of the recipes that I grew up with, and we continue to share these in the form of delectable dishes and desserts with our customers today,” says Vlada. Since the restaurant attracts many creative guests, poetry readings are held throughout the year, and a classically trained pianist performs nightly. Russian Samovar features live interactive theater with award-winning actors, performances from a rotating cast of musicians, the Gypsy Fun Trio playing traditional Russian music on violin and guitar, and a Jazz Blues Brunch with the Uptown Jazz Company. The restaurant continues to be a significant supporter of the art community. Says Vlada, “If you want a truly Russian experience, you must come and visit us…but expect it to be loud!” Mushroom Vol-au-vent

For theatergoers, the restaurant offers a special prix-fixe menu Monday through Friday until 7 pm. For more information on Russian Samovar, visit russiansamovar.com. •

82 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | AUGUST 2019


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FOOD & DRINK

BEN & JACK’S STEAKHOUSE A RARE FIND! By Anne Raso

f your idea of the perfect dinner is a giant Porterhouse for two served sizzling with natural juices and butter, then Ben & Jack’s is the kind of place you’ll want to sink your teeth into. Started just under 25 years ago in the Flatiron District by former Peter Luger waiters, it is now conveniently situated in Midtown at 219 East 44th Street (between Second and Third Avenues). Ben & Jack’s takes the idea of a traditional New York steakhouse and gives it a sophisticated modern flavor. The space is posh with wood detailing and is frequented by businessmen as well as girls on the town. The service is super attentive without being intrusive. The wait staff—who know the menu by heart—will help you choose a memorable meal customized to dietary needs and preferences.

PORTERHOUSE PRIDE

Porterhouse for Two

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New York Lifestyles recently visited to see for ourselves. We were wowed! We will venture to say that the giant Porterhouse can serve three or more (as opposed to just the advertised two). The meat was done perfectly—medium rare just as we requested—and we loved that it came sliced in the old-school New York traditional steakhouse style. Our mouths watered as our server drizzled it with the meat juices and butter and recommended the house steak sauce, which has a slight citrusy tang from the addition of orange juice. Something unusual happened at the table that endeared us to Ben & Jack’s: our server encouraged us to pick up the bone and dig in. That certainly separates this steakhouse from others. It may have a super classy steakhouse atmosphere but the customer enjoying their meal and feeling relaxed always comes first!


A FAMILY BUSINESS WITH HEART Affable Executive Chef Admir Alibasic is part of this family business who started from the ground up. Not only does he know steak, Chef Admir is very hands-on about all meat and produce coming into his kitchen. He tells us, “At B&J’s, I have worked every position in the restaurant and being chef now allows me to continue to show my passion for food in every dish. I have been with the restaurant since 2006 and am lucky enough to see where it was then and where it is now. Hard work went into creating a legacy and it continues to grow and will only get better. The restaurant has won many hospitality awards and we treat the customers as if they are family.” Because of this the restaurant has won many hospitality awards. Hospitality aside, it’s the steak that takes center stage here. “We put extra care in selecting and dry-aging the beef.” They have the process of preparing the meat down to a science after carefully studying what yields the most tender and flavorful cuts. Reveals Chef Admir, “We dry-age and hand-select the cuts of beef our own way. Being able to incorporate my background in food science, I have created a dry-aging box with the optimal temperature and humidity to produce a perfectly dry-aged steak. Our USDA Prime cuts are kept in a temperature and humidity controlled walk-in box.”

MORE THAN JUST MEAT He adds that the restaurant has no magic formula for success outside of going out of their way to find out what their customers want: “B&J’s has created a name for itself by providing top-quality ingredients, impeccable customer service, and consistency to every person that walks through the door. When you go with B&J’s, you will never go anywhere else. The business will continue to work hard to be the top steakhouse in America.” The caring goes beyond the guests. Keeping a happy team in the kitchen and out on the floor is also important. “We treat each other with respect, and the owners have created a management team that works together. It is a family business, so we like to make the customers feel comfortable and at the same time enjoy their experience. Our wait staff has been with us for a minimum of six years and some even ten years,” explains Chef Admir. The chef tells us that Ben & Jack’s also works with the charity community. He remarks, “We give back via events where I cook for groups ranging from 400 to 4,000 people. The charity events that I work with are the American Cancer Society, City Harvest, St. Jude’s, Food Bank, Sarcoma Foundation and many more.”

A BEST KEPT-SECRET Many celebrities and professional athletes have already deemed it their favorite steakhouse of choice. On any night you might see Charles Oakley, Daymond John, Chris Brickley, Bill Cowher, and Skeery Jones ordering their favorite beef cuts and seafood; celebrities of the political sort also frequent the steakhouse. You’ll find groups of ambassadors and other world dignitaries reserving their regular spots since it’s just steps from the United Nations. But probably the best deal in town can be found here at lunch. The midtown eatery has a fabulous $32.95 lunch special served daily that includes a generous sized Filet Mignon with mushroom sauce or a 12-ounce Sirloin. This prix-fixe lunch includes a mixed green salad or onion soup, potato, vegetable, dessert, and coffee or tea; it is a can’t miss deal! If you have a non-meat eater with you, there is a wonderful selection of seafood specialties available. The kitchen staff excels at seafood preparation and many regulars make Crab Cakes their “go to” appetizer. Says Chef Admir, “The Sea Bass, Sesame-Crusted Tuna, and even Seafood Pasta are like no other.” And, of course, to accompany the meticulously assembled menu, an excellent wine list is always in place, offering great wines complementary to the outstanding menu. For more information on Ben & Jack’s, visit benandjackssteakhouse.com. • AUGUST 2019 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 85


ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

ON STAGE

Andrew Polec as Strat & the Original London Cast of BAT OUT OF HELL THE MUSICAL ©Specular

BAT OUT OF HELL: THE MUSICAL By Lori Zelenko

othic. Epic. Operatic. And yes, definitely “over the top” as they say across the pond where the musical based on Meat Loaf’s masterpiece, Bat Out of Hell is a hit in London. The third best-selling album worldwide—43 Million Copies sold since its release in 1977—falling into place just behind Michael Jackson’s Thriller and AC/DCs Back in Black—is now a musical opening in August at NYC’s City Center. Jim Steinman wrote the songs from this monster album (actually the first in a trilogy). Steinman’s talent as a longtime Meat Loaf collaborator is unparalled; he is essentially the man behind the music and the legend. Though the two were tightly linked creatively, there was a time when Steinman became a Meat Loaf defector, opting to work with Springsteen. So naturally, some may hear a Springsteen influence in the tunes, but they are still very much “owned” by Meat Loaf. Each big, kitschy, crazy, dramatic, percussion-fueled number takes 70’s classic rock to breathless, Wagnerian heights. Todd Rundgren produced the album that brought us You Took the Words Right out of My Mouth (Hot Summer Night); Heaven Can Wait; All Revved Up With No Place to Go; Two Out of Three Ain’t Bad; Paradise by the Dashboard Light; For Crying out Loud; Great Boleros of Fire, and the title track.

THE MAN AND THE MUSIC

Meat Loaf was born Marvin Lee Aday in Texas (he changed Marvin to Michael in later years.) We know his beefy body from more than 55 films and television shows. He made his debut as Eddie in 1975’s The Rocky Horror Picture Show and has held on to the spotlight not only through memorable even melodramatic music videos but with appearances in Crazy in Alabama and Fight Club (1999), The Salton Sea (2002), Wishin’ and Hopin’ (2014) among other roles and even a turn (actually three!) on Celebrity Apprentice (2011). He has 13 studio albums to his credit, Braver Than We Are came out in 2017 and yes, it was written by Jim Steinman who originally conceived Bat Out of Hell as a stage production—undoubtedly different than what’s taken London by storm, after all, it’s had endless rewrites to become the rockin’ success it is today.

Andrew Polec as Strat & Christina Bennington as Raven in BAT OUT OF HELL THE MUSICAL ©Specular

86 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | AUGUST 2019

There is actually a plot to Bat Out of Hell: The Musical. Star-crossed young lovers in dire straits: “an epic story of rebellious youth and passion” but entertaining though it may be, it’s just a framework for the music Meat Loaf, and Steinman made famous. Chart-topping power ballads that keep fans charged-up, hanging on every tune from this show that’s has been called “electrifying,” “giddy,” “exhilarating,” and “thrillingly alive.” For hardcore lovers of Bat Out of Hell—which Rolling Stone called one of “The Greatest Albums of All Time”—there’s a bonus of two previously unreleased songs which will premiere with the show, “What Part of My Body Hurts the Most” and “Not Allowed to Love.”


MEAT LOAF POSSESSED

All this hoopla on both sides of the Atlantic! What does Meat Loaf have to say about it all? Agreeing as he defrays praise, he acknowledges the album can get you hooked. He says, “David Letterman got a lot of speeding tickets listening to Bat Out of Hell. I don’t know if it’s true, but that’s what he told me.” Meat Loaf is an associate producer—aka he says, “an ego credit”—on the musical, which arrives with the stellar cast from London’s West End. No stranger to acting himself, he understands the art of performance so it’s only natural that he would recognize the energy it takes—“an incredible amount”—to rev up the crowd and as an actor create the drama. As he explains, you have to “totally believe it, and you have to become it. You have to become the character you are playing. You have to let go and let the character, like a ghost, almost possess.” For four decades, Meat Loaf has captivated us with his gorgeous, passionate, romantic, and in every sense of the word, tremendous, performance. What’s his secret? He confesses, “I’ve been possessed every night.” The Immersive Nightclub Phenomenon

MEATLOAF

POWERHOUSE PERFORMER

Interestingly enough, Meat Loaf doesn’t see the music industry recognizing him as a musician; he feels he’s seen as an actor. And from that point of view, he wonders if indeed the young cast members in Bat Out of Hell: The Musical will harness the energy from the audience and be able to engage, challenge, surprise and electrify them. Meat Loaf has always said he can give the same performance to four trees as he can to 400,000 people. “The energy in the room,” he says, “will not change.” Meat Loaf doesn’t leave his on-stage presence to chance, he prepares for five hours in his dressing room, so by the time he takes the stage, he’s “a serial killer.” Ruthlessness aside, Meat Loaf is a powerhouse performer though he doesn’t star or even have a walk-on in Bat Out of Hell: The Musical his “energy” is there, vital, gutsy, pulling you into the fray, getting you to travel along with the emotional, turbulent, remarkable journey that is this show so epically conceived by Jim Steinman.

ABOUT THE SHOW

Bat Out of Hell: The Musical, directed by Jay Scheib, stars Andrew Polec who thrilled London and Toronto critics with his powerhouse performance as Strat. Joining him is Christina Bennington who originated the role of Raven in London, Bradley Dean as Falco, Avionce Hoyles as Tink, Danielle Steers as Zahara, Wiltez Jones as Jagwire, and Tony Award winner Lena Hall is playing Sloane! Bat Out of Hell: The Musical is scheduled through September 8th. The musical has recently launched a global partnership to support the Invictus Games Foundation, the governing body of the Invictus Games—a global sporting event for wounded, injured, and sick servicemen and women. For more information on Bat Out of Hell: The Musical, visit batoutofhellmusical.com. •

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ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

ON THE BIG SCREEN By Jenny Peters

COOL SUMMER COMEDIES BLINDED BY THE LIGHT Rated: PG-13 Yes, that title references the Bruce Springsteen song; in fact, Bruce hi ms el f g ave w r ite r-d i re c tor Gurinder Chadha (Bend It Like Beckham) the green light to use his music in her funny comingof-age film set in 1980s England. Her protagonist is a Brit-Pakistani teen who’s struggling to fit in; that is, until he finds the music of Springsteen as an inspiration to break out and be himself. It’s funny, charming and a brilliant slice of life, English-style. WHERE’D YOU GO, BERNADETTE Rated: PG-13 Cate Blanchett stars in this tongue-incheek tale of a middle-aged mom who grabs at a chance to reconnect with her architectural career after devoting 20 years to her family. With a cast of funny females including Kristen Wiig and Judy Greer, this comic adventure tale is one for anyone (of either sex) who’s feeling a bit stuck at the moment. Billy Crudup and Laurence Fishburne costar.

ALL ABOUT THE ACTION ANGEL HAS FALLEN Not yet rated The third installment in the Fallen action-flick franchise, this one reunites Morgan Freeman and Gerard Butler as U.S. president and his loyal Secret Service agent in another race to save the nation and the world from harm. With an all-star cast including Tim Blake Nelson, Jada Pinkett Smith, Piper Perabo, Nick Nolte and Danny Huston, this one’s pulling out all the stops. FAST & FURIOUS PRESENTS: HOBBS & SHAW Rated: PG-13 Fans of the Fast & Furious franchise rejoice! After eight movies, here’s your first spinoff, featuring Hobbs and Shaw, the law-enforcement characters made famous by Dwayne Johnson and Jason Statham in some of the F&F flicks. Now they’re on the hunt for a very bad man—played by Idris Elba— in locations all over the planet. Who wouldn’t want to go to Samoa with those three hunks? 88 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | AUGUST 2019


THE KITCHEN Rated: R Get serious with Melissa McCarthy, Tiffany Haddish and Elisabeth Moss as they play it straight in this mob action drama set in late 1970’s New York City. Despite being based on a comic book of the same name, this adult tale follows three women as they fill in for their Irish mobster husbands, whose trip to jail sets off an often brutal, always action-packed series of events. Emmy winner Margo Martindale and Oscar winner Common are also along for the ride.

LIMITED ENGAGEMENT BEGINS AUGUST 21

CRACKERJACK KIDS’ STUFF THE ANGRY BIRDS MOVIE 2 Rated: PG It’s kind of hard to believe that a movie based on a slightly mindless video game is going into a sequel, but those Angry Birds and giggling green pigs captured the imagination of a legion of kids, so it’s back. And with the superstar cast they’ve assembled for voice talent, ranging from Awkwafina, Tiffany Haddish and Nicki Minaj to Bill Hader, Jason Sudekis, Peter Dinklage and Danny McBride, there’s bound to be some laughs for both kids and adults in this animated adventure. THE ART OF RACING IN THE RAIN Rated: PG Based on the best-selling novel of the same name, this family flick follows Enzo, the trusty dog whose master is a racecar driver named Denny (Milo Ventimiglia). Together, dog and man (and man’s family, too) figure out how to navigate the world around them—and then set out on an adventure that is bound to charm adults and enchant children. Kevin Costner gives voice to Enzo, who also narrates this film aimed at anyone, old or young, who has ever loved a dog. DORA AND THE LOST CITY OF GOLD Rated: PG Intrepid explorer Dora enters the world of both live-action movies and her teenage years in this leap for her character from beloved animated cartoon character to real girl. Isabela Moner stars as Dora in this teen action adventure that takes her into the jungle in a search for her missing parents (Eva Longoria and Michael Pena). Naturally, she brings Boots, her monkey pal, along for the quest, which also involves the search for an ancient golden city. Will our girl heroine save the day? We sure hope so.

A Revealing New Play About Life, Love, and... Sex. Written & Performed by

LOIS ROBBINS Directed by

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ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

ON THE SMALL SCREEN By Jenny Peters

CHOCK FULL OF CHUCKLES A BLACK LADY SKETCH SHOW HBO Get ready to laugh at everything when this sketch show run by Issa Rae and Robin Thede hits HBO. With four “black lady” comedians leading the way—Thede stars, along with Ashley Nicole Black, Gabrielle Dennis and Quinta Brunson—and lots of celebrity guests, this latenight laugh series is sure to tackle topics that we don’t see on TV. Until now, that is. BULLETPROOF The CW Action adventure, cops and laughs, that’s what Bulletproof is all about. Set in the dark underbelly of London, this buddy cop series stars Noel Clarke and Ashley Walters as undercover police officers who get tough, crack wise and generally solve every mystery that’s put in their way. ON BECOMING GOD IN CENTRAL FLORIDA Showtime Kirsten Dunst stars in this comedy set in Florida in 1992. She’s pitch perfect as a water-park mermaid who has a grudge against the company that sent her into a bankrupt state in this satire of the American dream, built up pyramid-style. With George Clooney and Grant Heslov as executive producers and Dunst in the lead, this one’s bound to be a crack up. THE RIGHTEOUS GEMSTONES HBO Imagine John Goodman as an evangelical preacher who’s made a fortune on his TV flock. Got it? Then you’re ready for The Righteous Gemstones, this wildly satiric look at a family that uses Jesus and his gospel to lie, cheat and steal from believers. Danny McBride not only stars, but also does everything else, from producer, creator, writer and director, so if you love his version of funny, this one’s for you. 90 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | AUGUST 2019


FILLED WITH TEARS AND FEARS 90210 Fox If you’re missing the 1990s, then the original gang from Beverly Hills 90210 feels your pain. So they’ve all gotten back together (sans the late Luke Perry) to reboot that drama, but with a twist. This time, Jason Priestley, Jennie Garth, Ian Ziering, Gabrielle Carteris, Brian Austin Green and Tori Spelling will play amped-up, scripted versions of themselves, in a six-part series designed to make you believe that there really is no place like home—if it’s Beverly Hills, that is. CARNIVAL ROW Amazon Prime Victorian style meets a fantasy world of fairy creatures in Travis Beacham’s long-gestating project. It began years ago as a film with Guillermo Del Toro attached; now it’s a Prime TV series that stars Orlando Bloom and Cara Delevingne. Del Toro serves as executive producer, too, so his unique sensibility imbues this fantastical tale that explores the very contemporary theme of accepting immigrants into an intolerant society. THE DARK CRYSTAL: AGE OF RESISTANCE Netflix Nearly 40 years after Jim Henson and Frank Oz brought The Dark Crystal to the big screen by using animatronic puppets as its cast, there is finally a return to the planet Thra in this 10-episode TV series. Once again created with puppets, the fantasy series is actually a prequel to the 1982 film and one populated with voice actors you’re sure to recognize. Listen closely to hear everyone from Mark Hamill and Awkwafina to Alicia Vikander, Caitriona Balfe, Helena Bonham Carter, Taron Egerton, Lena Headey and Eddie Izzard in this scary fantasy experience. OUR BOYS HBO Based on true events that happened in 2014 in Gaza, Our Boys explores the tragic events that led to armed conflict in that war-torn zone between Israel and Palestine. The tragedies began with the death of three Israeli teenage boys, then escalated with the murder of a young Palestinian; the combination of both incidents led to full-blown war. This 10part drama examines each side, attempting to provide answers to the age-old questions that plague this conflict-filled region. AUGUST 2019 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 91


ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

LE POISSON ROUGE

CELEBRATING A DECADE OF MUSIC WITH AN EYE TO THE FUTURE By Bailey Beckett

t’s been 10 years since owner David Handler opened Le Poisson Rouge, a Village nightclub that brings under-the-radar classical and jazz talents to the New York stage. And yet rather than bask in the memories, the musical impresario is looking onward. Handler announced this summer he’s stepping back from day-to-day management of the venue, which the New York Times called a “forward-thinking venue that seeks to showcase disparate music styles under one roof,” to concentrate on writing and performing music rather than booking it. His first project will be a collaboration with Jónsi and Alex Ross, of the group Sigur Ros, where he is going to rework and write their 2009 album Riceboy Sleeps. Handler, who is also a classically trained violinist (he graduated from the Manhattan School of Music) is also simultaneously making a solo album of his own. The news of Handler’s new role has not gone unnoticed. Once called the “Ian Schrager of the music scene” by the New Yorker, he is synonymous with bringing an impeccable curation to the nightclub stage, having hosted talents as varied as Thom Yorke, Paul Simon, Yo-Yo Ma, Lady Gaga, Iggy Pop, Lorde, Beck and Philip Glass among many others. On the eve of his transition, Handler, who made Le Poisson Rouge the coolest place to listen to contemporary music, talks to New York Lifestyles about the decision and his plans for the future. 92 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | AUGUST 2019


What would you say Le Poisson Rouge has meant to New York City since its opening? I might be the person least capable of an objective answer, but I hope LPR has become a place that people count on, not only to hear the most exceptional and unique artists in their catalogue live, but also to be introduced to musicians and styles of music they’ve never known they love. Technology has enabled an exponentially higher output of music (via self-production, self-promo and self-distribution), making the role of curator all the more important to audiences at the same time as the live setting has justifiably gained greater value in a digital age. I believe deeply in the listener. If we’ve earned their trust—to deliver, challenge, and inspire—I consider it a mission accomplished. To do that, programming is as omnivorous and deliberately eclectic as possible, with no expense or attention spared on the audio-visual aspect of the experience, for both the performer and audience’s sake. How has LPR fit into the city’s cultural landscape? The fine art, music, theater, sports, food/drink—to say nothing of the programming offered without setting foot outside—is overwhelming. With media conglomerates absorbing independent venues/presenters left and right, I’d like to think ours is a more curated, nuanced approach to the calendar, and that we have become known as being a musician’s room; a room for the serious listener. We do this on hallowed ground, inhabiting the space that was once The Village Gate which hosted Hendrix, Morrison, Monk, Mingus, Warhol, Ginsburg, Velvet Underground, Ella Fitzgerald, and Belushi. Aretha Franklin gave her debut in the room, as did Peter David Handler Paul & Mary. I like to think we’ve carried the spirit of that eclecticism and Photo by Quinn Ryan Mattingly independence with us. We’re proud to call the Village home and that we present shows in other rooms like the legendary Apollo Theater and Town Hall including unconventional spaces like cathedrals and warehouses on the What has it been like working with Jónsi and Alex on regular. Our own orchestra, Ensemble LPR, makes an imprint beyond our the new orchestrations for the 10th anniversary tour of Riceboy Sleeps? four walls on Bleecker. Collaborating with Alex and Jónsi (Sigur Rós) has been How has it been stepping away to focus on your own artistic endeavors? a deeply rewarding experience. We know each other, I’ve always thought of LPR as an expression of my musical being and output. and they know my work. They gave me carte blanche to Music has been the closest thing to a faith I have ever known. I began playing compose what I hear in the music and make it my own, violin at age 3 and composing shortly thereafter. Unable to reconcile the huge knowing I understand the spirit of the piece and would chasm between the music I held so dear and that with which my peers where honor it. They were sure I knew what the music needed familiar, I began making playlists for friends, intent as a pre-teen on opening and how the orchestra can provide it. The piece was given a nightclub that I had learned would resemble the “chambers” of the classical its world premiere at the Sydney Opera House on June and romantic periods. I knew even then what I would name the place. In 11th and was played a few more times in Australia since. I any case, LPR has always been a method of delivery. I’ve always been an joined the tour for the Paris and London stops and will be artist first, and the return to my own music is about survival. In some ways there for most of the North America stops this fall. opening a venue before focusing on one’s own career is backwards, but it was the only way I could feel right about the whole thing. Now I live the “Art You also have an album of original compositions in the works. Is there a particular inspiration for this album? Life” again, as David Lynch would say, and I am happy. The album is a series of portraits that map the everyday violence of inner life and the psyche. There are pieces for electronics, some for acoustic instruments, even some spoken word. I play nearly all instruments on nearly all tracks. It is an intensely personal album and safe to say it’s far from easy listening. This album is what my head sounds like. The engineer is Marc Urselli, who has worked a lot with John Zorn, Mike Patton, Lou Reed, etc. I’m exploring short film concepts to accompany the release. After the tour and album, what’s next for you? Music for screen maybe. I love film and I’m encouraged that lately the dialogue between sound and the moving image seems to be more dynamic and reciprocal than ever, in film and television. I love dance and am still trying to make peace with opera, so who knows. I like collaborating with the right popular artists and am certainly open to doing more of that. While pop music is of course alive and well, there seems to be a growing number of people who want more than to be amused or pacified by what they listen to. People are looking for art over entertainment; to transcend. These are my people. Some people are ready for music that challenges and provokes. I’m coming for you. For more information on Le Poisson Rouge, visit lpr.com. • AUGUST 2019 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 93


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JUNE/JULY 2019 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 31


ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

Aerial view of New York Yankees Mickey Mantle ©Neil Leifer courtesy Sports Illustrated, Morrison Hotel Gallery

MORRISON HOTEL GALLERY FINE PHOTOGRAPHY COMES TO LIFE By Jennifer Strong

orrison Hotel Gallery is the world leader in fine art music photography representing over 125 of the most highly acclaimed music photographers— those who made, and continue to make, an indelible mark on music culture with photographic portrayals of the industry’s most influential artists. Morrison Hotel Gallery was founded by former record company marketing executive Peter Blachley, music retail industry professional Richard Horowitz, and legendary music photographer Henry Diltz. World-renowned photographer, author and director, Timothy White joined as a fourth partner, rounding out this phenomenal team.

The gallery continues to curate hundreds of the world’s most exceptional collections of rare and iconic photography for exhibition and sale.

AUGUST 2019 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 95


RARE & ICONIC

The concept of Morrison Hotel Gallery originated with the Diltz archive and the eponymous Morrison Hotel album cover taken by Diltz in 1969 for The Doors. With its flagship gallery in SoHo, New York City, the gallery continues to curate hundreds of the world’s most exceptional collections of rare and iconic music photography for international exhibition and sale (a second NYC outpost located in the former art gallery of CBGBs). The gallery also maintains a presence in Los Angeles and is housed in Sunset Marquis, the brainchild of Timothy White. And three years ago, Morrison Hotel Gallery joined forces with Fleetwood Mac founder and rock icon Mick Fleetwood to open its newest gallery in Fleetwood’s General Store in Lahaina, Maui. “Our experience has taught us a lot about how consumers interact with iconic music photography. It’s the emotional and authentic connection that really makes an impact. Images of great music performers can be an unforgettable experience,” says Morrison Hotel Gallery partner Peter Blachley. “We gain awareness of things through our senses.” Working with the photographers, family estates, and often legendary artists in music who are also photographers, Morrison Hotel Gallery brings to light unseen archives, drawing from a vast and growing catalog of jazz, blues, and rock genres dating back to the 1940s and up to today’s contemporary artists.

John Lennon ©Michael Brennan courtesy of Morrison Hotel Gallery

Soho Gallery ©Courtesy Morrison Hotel Gallery

Suzanne Vega ©Lynn Goldsmith courtesy of Morrison Hotel Gallery

Joni Mitchell ©Joel Bernstein, Courtesy of Morrison Hotel Gallery

MORE THRILLING IMAGES

Hollywood and sports photographs are also included in many of the archives represented. Morrison Hotel Gallery’s Baseball Collection represents classic baseball teams and players through fine art photographs. Home to an extensive archive featuring some of the most historic moments and players in baseball history, it’s always game day at Morrison Hotel Gallery where all of your favorite teams from the New York Mets to the New York Yankees and legends like Sandy Koufax, Willie Mays, Mickey Mantle, and Hank Aaron can be found. The Collections include iconic pieces from legendary photographers such as Neil Leifer and Ken Regan. So whether you’re looking for some grand slam inspiration or the perfect piece to upgrade your own space, step up to the plate and check out Morrison Hotel Gallery’s selection of baseball team photos. All of these baseball player photos are available as fine art prints available for purchase both online and at all MHG locations.

1964 Word Series Bob Gibson (St. Louis Cardinals) and Mel Stottlemyre ©Ken Regan courtesy Morrison Hotel Gallery

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“Our range of photography is a palette of taste and style, just like the music it represents. We can go from heroic to romantic to reflective and nostalgic,” says Blachley. “That’s exactly what we love to do.” For more information on Morrison Hotel Gallery, visit morrisonhotelgallery.com. •



NEW YORK, NY

Global Mashups show, Bollywood Meets Global Roots Blues

ENTREPRENEUR’S CORNER By Ellen Kodadek, Executive & Artistic Director of Flushing Town Hall

vividly remember the moment I fell in love with the arts. An actor sailed through a scene of a Kabuki performance, his stark white outfit illuminating the Lincoln Center stage. I felt myself being transported from Midtown Manhattan to 17th-century Japan. At the age of nine, I was riveted. I had never before experienced such breathtaking beauty and majesty. It showed me the possibility of a world I never knew existed. My parents, who were refugees of World War II, deeply valued the arts and passed their passion on to my siblings and me. Growing up in Manhattan, we didn’t have much disposable income, but they always made sure to take us to museums, ballet, and theater performances. They viewed the arts as essential—as vital to living as water and air. I have always worked to honor the values they instilled in me.

THE ARTS FOR ALL Throughout my career in arts and culture, a common theme has been my drive to renew, rebuild, and expand institutions and their arts programming for the entire community. My family’s history and experience with disenfranchisement drives my passion for bringing opportunities to people who may not otherwise get to experience the arts. During my time as Director of Presentations and as Director of Public Relations and Marketing for Snug Harbor Cultural Center in Staten Island, I helped to expand educational and cultural programming and curate performances of all disciplines and sizes. I was proud to serve on the team that reopened the music hall on the grounds at Snug Harbor, New York City’s second oldest theater, which had been closed for 30 years. I consulted with Lincoln Center before moving upstate to work in Corning. Eventually, I joined Southern Tier Celebrates in Binghamton as Chief Executive Officer, facilitating the merger of First Night Binghamton and the Binghamton Summer Music Festival. This included developing multiple regional community revitalization initiatives and transforming both programs into a year-round, multi-disciplinary arts organization that offered arts education, enrichment for seniors and at-risk youth, festivals, concerts, theatre programming, art-making, and public art projects. 98 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | AUGUST 2019

Ellen Kodedek


A GLOBAL COMMUNITY I brought my skills and cultural experiences back to the city over a decade ago to join Flushing Town Hall. I was thrilled to become part of an institution in the most diverse county in the nation, where more than 160 languages are spoken, and people of all different backgrounds come together to work, play, and learn. At Flushing Town Hall, I took on the roles of both Executive and Artistic Director. Wearing both professional hats means I manage and lead the many moving parts of a thriving cultural institution. As Executive Director, I am involved in finances and fundraising, work with our Board, and oversee staff. Since taking the helm at Flushing Town Hall, I’ve paid off inherited institutional debt, completed multiple capital projects, expanded our budget, and grown our incredible, dedicated staff and audience numbers. My role as Artistic Director feeds my curiosity about the world, artists, art-making, communities, and traditions. What I most enjoy is the opportunity to travel in search of innovative, fun, and awe-inspiring artists and performers who I book for our curated programming. I’ve implemented signature programming to attract wider, more diverse audiences from across New York City and beyond, including our ongoing popular series, Global Mashups, which pairs performers from two distinct regions to perform with dance lessons, individuals sets, and then blend their works onstage to create a new and unique sound. Also, even though I curate arts from abroad, I never lose sight of what’s in my backyard of Queens, home to countless jazz legends, from Dizzy Gillespie to Count Basie. We honor this tradition through jazz programs throughout the year, including our annual Queens Jazz Orchestra performance, led by National Endowment for the Arts Jazz Master Dr. Jimmy Heath, and our monthly jazz jams, where I get to watch homegrown talent begin to soar. The FTH staff

Flushing Town Hall

LOVE FOR THE ARTS As my parents did with me, I foster an appreciation of the arts by providing multiple opportunities to experience and enjoy the arts— on stage and in our gallery. I enjoy watching the eyes of a child open wide as he or she witnesses a marionette on stage or learns how to dance cumbia in one of our workshops. I’ve seen first-hand what joy, discovery, and comfort the arts bring. It’s important to me that we cultivate a love for the arts by offering school performances and family programming. We even open up our doors for 13- to 19-year-olds to enjoy any performance—through a Teen Access Program—for free. Every day, my work allows me to engage with a wide range of people, including staff, donors, artists, and collaborators. Working with people from different cultural, social, and educational backgrounds is incredibly rewarding, and my role is a privilege, a challenge, and an opportunity—all at once. Whether it’s offering low-cost performances, workshops for seniors, or high-quality arts for children, it is important to me—and all who are part of Flushing Town Hall—to make sure that everyone has the opportunity to experience the arts and to see themselves represented on stage and in the gallery. No matter their income, age, or background, all people should have the chance to fall in love with the arts and discover a world of possibilities, just like I did at Lincoln Center many years ago. For more information on Flushing Town Hall and its exhibits, concerts, and workshops, visit flushingtownhall.org. • AUGUST 2019 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 99


NEW YORK, NY

MY NEW YORK STORY By Chamique Holdsclaw, former WNBA star

he #1 draft pick in the 1999 WNBA draft, Chamique Holdsclaw was one of the best basketball players in the world. She went on to become Rookie of the Year, a six-time All Star, and an Olympic gold medalist for Team USA. Today she is a renowned, inspiring mental health advocate, traveling around the world to talk to young people, families, and community members about the importance of speaking honestly about mental health. Here’s her story in her own words. The road that led me to mental health advocacy started on the outdoor basketball courts of Astoria, Queens, and brought me to places I never thought I’d be. Today, when I get to help others, I can see that it’s all been worthwhile. Growing up, basketball was a refuge for me. My early years were marked by the instability of life at home, caused by my parents’ struggles with addiction and other mental health concerns. When I was 11, the state determined that my brother and I would be better off living in Astoria with my grandmother—and off we went. Grandma June helped me feel safe in the world. She taught me discipline, and showed me unconditional love.

FACING REALITY Still, taunts from neighborhood kids constantly reminded me of my troubled upbringing. They’d tell me that they’d seen my mother passed out drunk on park benches, or that my dad was crazy. But on the basketball court, the taunting stopped; that’s where I could be in control. Basketball gave structure to my life, allowing my mind to focus on a single cherished task. By the time I got to Christ the King High School, I was one of the best basketball players around. It was a perfect mask for me. But like any mask, it could only obscure reality for so long. I went on to play basketball at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville for four years with legendary coach Pat Summitt. My childhood dream came true in April 1999, when I was selected as the number one pick in the WNBA draft. Excitement surging through my body, I walked up onstage and shook hands with the league’s president. 100 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | AUGUST 2019

Chamique Holdsclaw


BEING THE BEST I could feel the weight of everyone’s expectations resting on my shoulders. Some expected me to be the savior of women’s basketball: the female Michael Jordan, some said. But for the moment, those expectations didn’t matter. My lifelong effort to be the best basketball player in the world had paid off. As I exited the stage, I saw my smiling grandmother, tears streaming down her face. It was one of the proudest moments of my life. When my grandma died unexpectedly in her sleep in May 2002, my life unraveled. I buried my emotions along with her. Three days later, I was back on the court, trying to numb myself with the only drug that had ever worked for me. A deep depression set in, and worsened over time. I didn’t tell anyone how I was feeling. In 2006, I found myself on suicide watch at Centinela Hospital in California. And in November 2012, I emerged from a mental blackout, sitting in my car, with a 9 millimeter gun sitting in my passenger seat.

Chamique Holdsclaw

FINDING A SOLUTION I was shaken to my core. How had this happened? What if I’d hurt somebody, or myself? This proved to be my breaking point. For me to live, something had to change. I had to tell the truth about how I felt inside. Soon thereafter, I was diagnosed with bipolar II disorder. I was angry, but relieved—identifying a problem meant that a solution was within reach. I was prescribed a medication to manage my symptoms, and I started to learn about what it really meant to care for myself: physical exercise, eating well, building community, tending to my relationships, being honest. And perhaps most importantly: letting other people in, and learning that I was worthy of love exactly as I am. This realization transformed my life.

Chamique Holdsclaw at the Mental Health Film Festival

In the years since, I’ve become an advocate for people living with mental health concerns. I share my story on college campuses around the country, and I’ve aligned my efforts with the work of New York’s own Community Access Inc.—a housing and mental health agency—at whose NYC Mental Health Film Festival I screened Mind/Game, the documentary about my life. I’ve also gotten to spend time with Community Access tenants, and I’ve gotten to see how unconditional love transforms people’s lives every day.

A BRIGHTER FUTURE What I’ve learned is this: Mental health concerns affect us all. We should be working to create a world where we can all talk about what’s really going on— free of fear and with hope for a brighter future. When I travel around the country, I try to embody the spirit of service and unconditional love my Grandma June taught me. When I meet young people on college campuses across the country, I tell them that they are worthy of love and respect, and that there is nothing shameful about seeking help. I especially love meeting young athletes, because it gives me a chance to teach them what it took me a long time to figure out: It’s okay to strive to be the best player you can be, but it’s more important to be the healthiest, happiest person you can be. For so long I had thought I had to be the best to be accepted. I always wanted to be first. I had no idea that I simply had to be me. •

Chamique Holdsclaw at Community Access Gala

AUGUST 2019 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 101


NEW YORK, NY

PAWS DOWN, TAILS UP FAVORITE TIPS & TREATS By Lori Zelenko & Meghan Rodick

ndrea Arden, one of New York’s top dog trainers, is beloved by many pet parents thanks to her proven training techniques. Take advantage of these tips at her dog training school, where she has been for more than 20 years giving pointers on the critical commands. Over the years she’s seen basic training go from “military-style”—a more challenging than encouraging a way of training— to making what’s essential for all dog owners into a fun game. Best of all, her “hand-targeting” only takes three minutes to get your pup in the groove. Step 1 Offer the palm of your hand to your dog. Out of curiosity, they’re going to touch it with their nose. You say “yes!” the moment their cute nose touches your hand, and then you give them a tiny treat (a bite-sized not a mammoth supper. Remember to keep the treat in proportion to the job done.) Step 2 Repeat this routine over and over during a three- to five-minute session daily. It won’t take long before your dog has what we call a “light bulb moment” and understands that when they come over and touch their nose to your hands, that’s when they will hear that magic word that says what you just did was right (which is yes). Step 3 Over the next week or two, practice this routine. It won’t take long before you find that you can present your palm to your dog and say “here” or “touch.” The result: your dog should enthusiastically run over and touch their nose to your hand. What does this mean? You’ve now taught your dog to come when you call. City or country this is an imperative command. What’s important Arden explains is that anyone can do it: “Whether it’s somebody like myself or a young child or a person in their senior years; it doesn’t require brute force, it doesn’t require an advanced understanding of animal behavior. It’s the straightforward concept of turning training into a fun game.” For more information on Andrea Arden dog training, visit andreaarden.com.

FAVORITE TREATS

Treats are a training aid or a reward for your dog’s good behavior. It is essential to use them judiciously and not let your dog overindulge. Also, it’s critical that they come from a reputable brand made in the USA or Canada, preferably 100 percent natural. Here, a few of our favorites here.

SABRINI’S ROYAL TREATS

Our dogs love Sabrini’s 100 percent all-natural treats. In fact, all six flavors are a hit: Wild Salmon, Salmon and Sweet Potato, Salmon and Herring, Salmon and Cranberry, Salmon and Blueberry, and Chicken. They are easy to break apart for training rewards and super healthy too! We love that they are made without additives or preservatives and that the age-old process of drying over time gives them nutritional value and great taste. Plus a portion of the proceeds go to canine cancer research! Info: sabrinis.com (website coming soon).

102 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | AUGUST 2019

AMUSE POOCH

Who would guess that such wholesome dog treats could taste so good? Imagine sitting down to eat without your furry friends begging you for food because their treats taste precisely like your snack. Additive- wheat- and antibiotic-free, oven-baked Amuse Pooch Artisan Treats are made by hand in small batches in NYC. We love that you can have these personalized with your pooch’s picture—special! Info: amusepoochtreats.com.


CANNA-PET CBD BISCUITS

LICK YOU SILLY

BOO BOO’S BEST

It happens! Sometimes over the years we realize our dogs need to slim down without starving them. Look no further than Boo Boo’s SuperFood Nuggets! These treats are only 3 to 5 calories each. Ingredients used in the nuggets are humanely raised. Choose from Salmon, Pork, Turkey and more—even exotic options like Groovy Gator! Info: booboosbest.com.

Made right here in the USA, these treats will have your dog saying “yum” after the first bite. The freeze-dried savory beef or chicken bites taste so good your pup won’t believe they’re grain, wheat, and gluten-free—an excellent option for allergy-prone pups. With healthy living on the top of lists today, it’s no wonder that Lick You Silly treats are a favorite of Venus Williams and her dog, Harry. Info: lickyousillypetproducts.com.

TRUE CHEWS

NUDGES DOG TREATS

Our dogs love these all-natural treats. With protein as the #1 ingredient, Nudges are inspired by the foods you love. Now we can enjoy our meals knowing our dogs will enjoy theirs. Nudges offers something for every dog from jerky bites to soft bakes not to mention savory bits, grillers, homestyle, crunchy bakes and more. Info: www. nudgesdogtreats.com.

You’ve done it—eliminating pesticides and parasites from your food. Why shouldn’t your dog? Canna-Pet organic treats come in a variety of flavors that are sure to please your pup including Peanut, Banana and Apple, Turkey and Maple Bacon. An advanced CBD formula ensures dogs of every shape and size will enjoy and appreciate Canna-Pet’s help with so many concerns from digestive issues to anxiety and, of course, total wellness. Info: canna-pet.com.

FOMO BONES CBD DOG TREATS

True Chews are an exact match to the steaming hot pepperoni coming off your pizza, the tender chicken breast coming out of your oven, and the savory meatballs decorating your plate. Your dog will feast on these natural and nutritious treats made from premium cuts of meat all sourced and made in the USA. We’re especially impressed with their Everyday Wellness Bakes and how each one supports a different element of your dog’s well-being. Info: truechews.com.

Your pup can avoid that fear of missing out (aka FOMO) if you take the plunge and buy these treats! Perfect for appeasing pups that can’t stand to be away from you - from their point of view 24/7 is just not enough togetherness. Fomo Bones can put their mind—and yours—to rest, knowing that they will be just fine without you. Infused with CBD from the highest quality hemp farms of Colorado, these treats not only help FOMO but ease pain, inflammation, and joint discomfort. Info: fomobones.com. •

AUGUST 2019 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 103


NEW YORK, NY

TIME OUT WITH… RANDY ZELIN By Elizabeth Darwen

noted trial attorney with a concentration in white collar criminal defense as well as complex civil litigation matters, Randy Zelin has been named a New York Super Lawyer every year since 2011. And with good reason. With over 30 years in both State and Federal Courts across the nation, he is sought by many. First and foremost is his unwavering commitment to each case. “My relationship with clients transcends business no matter how dire the circumstance,” says Zelin. Zelin, who started his career as a prosecutor, has represented many business professionals and individuals in all aspects of criminal and civil matters, including frauds related to securities, banking, tax, customs, bankruptcy and insurance to name a few. In other words, he is an actual trial lawyer, having built his career trying complex fraud and business crime cases. To him, there is never a dull day. Says Zelin, “Every case is memorable, so every story is memorable because they are so personal.

THE MEDIA But it doesn’t stop in the courtroom. A highly sought after legal commentator for the media, Zelin regularly appears on Fox News, Fox Business Channel, CNN, CBSN, CNN Headline News to name a few. Says Zelin, “I enjoy doing television because it is an opportunity to educate the viewers. Today’s audience has a real thirst for the knowledge given the intersection between the justice system and bi-partisan politics.” His knowledge is also appreciated as a contributor to the New York Law Journal, The New York Times and Wall Street Journal, where he offers his expertise on a wide range of legal issues and cases. The media can be a double-edged sword, however. When asked what some challenges law practitioners face today compared to 15 years ago, Zelin explains that it is “the advent of 24-hour news and social media. There is no time to plan—no time to formulate a response. Nothing goes away. Nothing can be kept hidden away.” When he is not in court or appearing in the media, Zelin is a frequent lecturer at continuing legal education programs on criminal law and procedure and has been invited to many local law schools as a guest instructor.

A GOOD PROBLEM SOLVER Zelin has successfully defended many high-profile cases including worldwide acclaim for scion of the Fiat industrial dynasty, industrialist and entrepreneur Lapo Elkann. He negotiated and obtained a dismissal of all criminal charges against Mr. Elkann before charges were ever filed in court. In another case, he successfully defended a Federal insider trading case where the government dismissed the case after the jury could not reach a verdict, and a mistrial was declared. “Clients often come to me after they have grown tired of being told the negatives from their former attorney. I pride myself on being a problem solver. If there are ten ways to skin a cat, I will find twenty!” His greatest achievements, however, are those that never come to light – where a problem is solved before there even is a problem, where the high-profile client’s problems evade publicity, and where the client never sees the inside of a courtroom. Says Zelin, “I am able to represent high profile clients because my best work is the work no one ever hears about.” Looking at the future of the practice of law, Zelin hopes that one of the changes will be bringing it down to a more personal level. “The relationship between a lawyer and a client should be close, personal and special. Practicing law must go back to being the honorable profession it once was and being a counselor—an advisor—a trusted confidante. I am proud to do what I do. I take it very, very seriously. And very personally.” For more information on Randy Zelin, visit randyzelinlaw.com. • 104 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | AUGUST 2019

Randy Zelin


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