Vol. 8 #3 | March 2022
Jeremy Murphy
He’s Ready For Prime Time TRAVEL
6 Reasons To Visit Ireland
PROFILE
Ballet Sensation Skylar Brandt
REAL ESTATE
Gorgeous Rooms With A View
PETS
March Madness Has Arrived
PRIME COMMERCIAL & RESIDENTIAL SPACE(10,994 SQ. FT.) 85960 Overseas Highway Plantation key, FL 33036 Offering Price : $5,500,000 The Strahl Plaza in Islamorada offers Retail,Office, and 2 Complete Penthouse Stories of Private Residential Space. Combined with multiple boat slips, this truly checks all the boxes. 1st floor features both covered and outdoor parking while the 2nd floor offers 5 occupied retail spaces each with their own entrance bathrooms and rear waterfront porches. The 3rd floor is self-contained and accessible by its own locked off elevator or staircases. It is perfectly suited as a medical office space or for shared use. The entire floor consists of 12 offices and offers 2 full baths with shower facilities. This presents a unique opportunity to locate your business to the Florida Keys especially when the space can be coupled with two additional levels of private living space offering open water views from all angles. It is currently structured as a 2 bedroom 2 -1/2 bath apartment on one floor with the top open floor being your own bar, game room and captains quarters. The convenient location just seconds away from the Snake Creek bridge allows sailboats and large boats access and dockage at the property. The Commercial space truly offers so many possibilities. Create your very own piece of paradise for work and leisure. This Income producing property is maintained impeccably by the current owners.
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NOVEMBER 2021 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 3
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Contents FEATURES 12 14 21 25 30
From The Publisher Paul Szyarto: A Man With A Mission Jeremy Murphy: He’s Ready For Prime Time Marilyn Hoffman: $100 Million Realtor Profile: Skyler Brandt: Tip-Toeing To Stardom
LIFE & STYLE 32 Work & Unwind Edition 34 Culture Capsule: Home & Lifestyle Reviews 35 Living The Life: Fox Run Golf Club Delivers With Style
© Neil J Tandy
14
TRAVEL 36 38 41 44 47
Ireland: 6 Reasons To Visit The Emerald Isle Spring Getaways 2022: Everything You Need To Know Life’s A Beach: A Weekend Getaway To Cardozo South Beach Hotel Borgota: Atlantic City’s Destination For Glamour Southwest National Parks: Desert Beauty In The Wild West
REAL ESTATE & HOME DECOR 50 Around Town: Murray Hill 53 Rooms With A View 56 The Turks & Caicos: Investing For The Future
21
HEALTH & WELLNESS 58 Spinning Wheels: A New UWS Cycling Studio
FOOD & DRINK 60 Restaurant Review: HOWM
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT 62 63 64 66
On Stage: MJ The Musical BroadwayHD: Spring Has Sprung On The Big Screen On The Small Screen
25
PET SPOTLIGHT 69 Paws Down…Tails Up: March Merch Madness
NEW YORK, NY 73 Entrepreneur’s Corner: Dr. Ramon Tallaj 74 My New York Story: Shaun Melady 76 Time Out With…Joao de Matos
6 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | MARCH 2022
36
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OUR CONTRIBUTORS MELANIE CARDEN Melanie is a Boston-based writer and editor. Formerly a newspaper columnist, she writes about social justice, culture, cooking, adventure, and all things curious and creative. She earned her BA— with a concentration in Food and Culture Journalism—from UMass Amherst. Melanie is a passionate advocate for lifelong le ar n ing— t he t r a dit iona l, immersive, and online classrooms alike—and remains an active alumnus for the University Without Walls department of her alma mater. Her work has been featured in such publications as The Gay & Lesbian Review, Incomer Magazine, The Winchester Star Newspaper, and Cleaver Magazine. Mel can’t resist a good coffee mug and is obsessed with picnics. Catch her on melaniecarden.com. JENNY PETERS Jenny has covered the entertainment, lifestyle and travel worlds as a freelance journalist for many years. Her credits include writing on film, celebrities, and lifestyle for USA Today, AARP.com, Variety, New York Magazine, to name a few. She is the former editorin-chief of Brentwood/Distinctive Living magazines and held the same post for Scene magazine. She is a founding and voting member of the Broadcast Film Critics Association, who present the Critics’ Choice Awards every January honoring the previous year’s finest in cinematic achievement. Her favorite places to be: sipping wine in the middle of a vineyard or simply strolling the streets and soaking in the atmosphere of one of the world’s great cities. ANNE RASO Anne, who hails from New Jersey, is a longtime editor and writer now based in New York City. Highlights of her 35-plus year career include serving as the associate editor of Tiger Beat and Sunday music columnist for the New York Daily News. She has penned seven teen celebrity paperbacks including ones on Justin Timberlake and One Direction. More recently she has added food and travel to her expertise. Anne’s personal interests run the gamut from learning local history (particularly stories behind Art Deco buildings) to discovering new restaurants.
Vol. 8 #3 | March 2022 President / Publisher BILL MASON Editor-in-Chief Patricia Canole
Art Director Scott Cuollo
Editor-at-Large Jeremy Murphy
Lifestyle Griffin Miller
Entertainment Jenny Peters
Special Projects Norah Bradford
Chief Photographer Neil J Tandy Contributing Writers Bailey Beckett, Norah Bradford, Harry Brads, Melanie Carden, AP Connolly, Peter Elston, Irvina Lew, Bob Kappstatter, Grace Lappin, Bennett Marcus, Robert Massimi, Darren Paltrowitz, Meryl Pearlstein, Anne Raso, Jeff & Stephanie Sylva, Sara Wiesenfeld, Annie Watt, Laurie Bain Wilson, Stacey Zable
Executive Vice President of Sales LYLE SELTZER Sales Bill Mason Sr. - Director of New Business Development Don Fetherman - Director of Travel Internet Presence Michael McKenzie
Magazine Distribution The Garrido Group
New York Sales Office (646) 259-2651
Editorial/Sales Fax (212) 202-4888
For advertising inquiries, subscriptions, address changes or back issues, call: (646) 259-2651 newyorklifestylesmagazine.com Facebook: /NYLifestylesMag Twitter: @NYLifestylesMag Instagram: @NYLifestylesMag All rights reserved. Reproduction of any material from this issue is expressly forbidden without permission of the publisher. Printed in the USA. New York Lifestyles Magazine is published 10 times annually. ©2022 New York Lifestyles Magazine.
COVER CREDITS: Paul Szyarto
Photography by Neil J. Tandy
10 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | MARCH 2022
Jeremy Murphy
Photography by Mark Grgurich
Marilyn Hoffman Photography by Billy Campbell
NOVEMBER 2021 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 11
FROM THE PUBLISHER
Read Any of Our Issues In Digital Format on:
Issuu.com | Apple Newsstand | Our Website
ON THE BRINK OF SPRINGTIME
s March marks the official beginning of spring, we welcome this transition from the dark days of winter to new hope and renewal of spring. While we can’t always change the past, we can look forward to the future we can influence and change our present actions. This month we chose to feature three notable influencers affecting change and making a definite difference in this world. First, we profiled Paul Szyarto, a dynamic entrepreneur. He and his team are dedicated to making businesses thrive and show you how. Paul is a definite man with a mission.
Vol. 6 #8 | November/D ecember 2020
Then we got up-close with America’s real estate sweetheart, Marilyn Hoffman, and her luxurious properties featured in this issue. They’re unique, and we invite you to take a look. Then, our own Jeremy Murphy has written and launched his book, which has become a much-anticipated read for the spring. So be sure to order a copy and see how this rising star will put a smile on your face.
JACQUES
LIEBERMAN LIFE & STYLE HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE
A C O N V E R S AT I O N WITH THE ARTI ST FOOD & DRINK
BEST WINES TO TOAST THE SEASON
HEALTH
WINTER MYTHS FACT VS. FICTION
BONUS SECTION PETS + GIFTS & MORE
As we celebrate all things Irish this month, don’t miss advice from our editor-inchief Patricia Canole. With bloodlines from the Emerald Isle, her words on what to do and where to go are tops in “6 Reasons to Visit Ireland.” All this, plus new fitness options on the UWS, travel getaways for you and your family, and some March Madness with your four-legged friends. So, here’s to a renewed spirit! You’ll never feel alone here. You’re always welcome to the New York Lifestyles community. We’re a good bunch, and like you, love this city and its people. 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. Erin go Bragh!
-Bill Mason
Publisher
12 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | MARCH 2022
Visit us at: newyorklifestylesmagazine.com For subscription or back issues, call:
(646) 259-2651
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FEATURES
PAUL SZYARTO A MAN WITH A MISSION By AP Connolly | Photography by Neil J. Tandy
aul Szyarto is an unlikely success story. Growing up amid poverty, abuse, and chaos, one would have thought he would have fallen victim to his environment. But that’s not the case. His story is one of perseverance, resilience, and triumph. Szyarto is the epitome of a survivor and has taken his success to an entirely new level. He is now the CEO of multiple companies nationally and internationally. Quite simply, Szyarto is a serial entrepreneur like no other! Tough inside and out, he is an unstoppable machine and an inspiration to all of us—as we still navigate these turbulent times. So let us all lean into this master of survival. Growing up in New Jersey was not an easy task for the middle child of three boys. Tell our readers if these tough times prompted a desire to be an entrepreneur. Beyond growing up in some of the most challenging spots in New Jersey, it was the struggle of living with an abusive alcoholic father who dished out chaos daily that allowed me to find my inner “Survivorpreneur.” I watched my mom work 3-4 jobs every day to provide for my brothers and me. Beyond providing material things, she did her best to keep us safe from my father’s abusive ways. I don’t know if she ever slept because she was always working or protecting us from him. She is the definition of a survivor. Seeing her struggle to provide doing whatever it took really inspired me to become an entrepreneur. Being around her, I saw the definition of what I call a “Survorpreneur,”—someone who will do anything it takes to survive and live another day. She ensured I adapted her survival ways which allowed me to become an entrepreneur. I didn’t become an entrepreneur to buy things I wanted but to help get the things I needed like food, clothing, and helping my mom with bills as required. That’s what makes an entrepreneur. We do what we do because we must and ensure we survive. We do whatever it takes to win.
You’ve said that being passionate about your career is not enough. Explain what is missing. What is passion? Passion is an emotion, something that makes you feel a certain way. I think having a passion for what you do, or a strong emotional attachment is critical to success but must be supported with a good plan of execution. The sad part of life is we can’t freely live be based on passion because we have taxes and bills. No one is giving you a handout to live a life of freedom. You are the only one responsible for building a life of freedom based on passion. So, how do you get there? It would be best if you had a solid plan to generate monetary wealth based on your skills, abilities, experience, and, yes, your passion. If you can also plug in these other factors, you will have the ability to live based on passion alone one day. What do you believe makes a resilient and prosperous entrepreneur? The challenging times make us resilient and successful. Finding the good in the bad and using these lessons to further catapult yourself to the next level of success or even failure is what it is all about. Even failures are a win sometimes because they allow you to reset, learn, and try again. Those that don’t let the bad cause them to stop but allow the bad to drive them more challenging and further define their success.
Those early years brought forth a skill entrepreneurs must develop called instinct. Do you believe some people are natural-born leaders? We are all here to lead in some way. We all have a purpose. The goal in life is to find your meaning and generate impact. Our environments allow some of us to excel at developing impact sooner than others. But in the end, we all lead something.
Achieving a level of success in the world today is daunting for most. But do you think most can reach that level? If you think achieving a level of success is daunting, then you’ve already given up. Achieving success combines how you invest your time, consistency with your investments, resiliency to continue when it’s challenging, and showing appreciation for your success. So, no, it’s not daunting if you plan to win.
Your company helps corporations to structure and develop and succeed. What do you want people to know about structuring their own lives? Do your best to succeed in the business of life. Yes, life is a business, and you are the CEO. Like a business, you are given a limited amount of time and resources to succeed. Life is not infinite, just like any operation. It would help if you found a way to maximize your value as quickly as possible and take advantage of the limited resources, with the primary one being time. Your goal is to invest that scarce asset to generate as much wealth as possible to allow your business of life to affect as many as possible. When you start seeing life and time as a minimal resource, you focus on maximizing every minute of your day to create impact.
In today’s business atmosphere, everyone, big and small, knows of someone out to destroy them and their business. Is there a solution to avoid these minefields? This is so true, and it stems from a simple five-letter word...GREED. Too many people are willing to hurt you to advance themselves because it’s the easier path for them to make gains. Why? Because they don’t possess the abilities to do it themselves. The only way to gain is to take advantage of others. Understand, though, when someone sets out to destroy you, they don’t ever win in the end. They think they made some gains, but they only gained a small piece of a puzzle they will never understand anyway. I have been through this several times. I’ve had good partners and some bad. You can’t avoid it. I always tell my mentees to expect it at one point. When it does happen, ensure you have a solid recovery plan in place for when it happens.
MARCH 2022 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 15
Why did you decide to form PS Group Holdings? Over the last 25 years, I’ve only had a few jobs. One was the U.S. Navy along with others that lasted only months. Not because I wasn’t a good worker, but because I knew I couldn’t generate the most significant amount of impact working for someone else. I formed PS Group Holdings to allow myself the freedom to invest my time as I wish, based on my ability to generate as much impact in the world as possible. PS Group Holdings is diverse, everchanging, fun, and provides wealth to not only me but to my amazing team of operators. PS Group Holdings is supported by an outstanding team of operators, including Amanda Wild, who has more than 20 years in the operations world supporting multibillion-dollar assets. Although PS Group Holdings was created by me, it succeeded because of people like Amanda and the teams we are honored to work with. Tell us about the exciting businesses PS Group Holdings is involved with? PS Group Holdings doesn’t discriminate the types of businesses we support and accelerate, but we have a passion for technology, reach systems, and supporting our fellow entrepreneurs. One fantastic company we are supporting is BOSS AI, the first commercially available federated machine learning solution on the market. This company comprises the most brilliant people, including Russ Blattner, John Leschorn, and Dr. David Bauer. The team prides itself on building predictive models to support and solve some of the world’s most challenging problems. If you are looking to find ways to be more competitive, I highly recommend checking out BOSS AI as their models can accelerate any business to new levels of success. This is the company to watch regarding changing how economies function. Another is A2E, a service for disabled veteranowned businesses that help create strategies to work within the government sector. Started by Murphy Bright and Nick Trepasso, these two ex-Marines had a mission to help others gain government opportunity and help veterans transition into the civilian sector. They are living proof that veterans are essential and can succeed after the transition from active military duty. Lastly is Membrella, which is a member management technology solution designed to support influencers, businesses, groups, associations, and more manage and monetize member offerings. The operations team comprises top brass, including Art Santry, Tony Adams, and Mike Roberts, who have helped build some of the world’s most influential companies. The Membrella system is integrated with health benefits, insurances, discounts, and tools that allow any member organization to quickly stand up a management portal, provide value to their members, and build lasting and successful communities. In all, we collaborate with more than twenty companies at any given time. My focus is just having fun, surrounding myself with like-minded people, and impact as many as we can in a positive manner. 16 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | MARCH 2022
What’s your best piece of advice for an aspiring entrepreneur? Being an entrepreneur is not glamorous like people believe. Being an entrepreneur is one of the most challenging physical and emotional rides you will make in your life. Entrepreneurs can fail so horribly they don’t recover. Only a small number gets beyond the financial, emotional, and physical drain to where they even see a return. Being an entrepreneur has no guarantee of success or even consistency. Proceeding as the one, you need to be willing to give up everything, work through failure, and manage the success, knowing it can all be taken away at any moment. For those who take the journey, being an entrepreneur is the most rewarding endeavor I believe is available for all of us to try. Knowing the challenges of being an entrepreneur, I created Mentobo.com, which is a community for aspiring entrepreneurs, designed to help everyone release their inner entrepreneur by gaining access to the tools, benefits, discounts, and much more which is needed to remove some of the roadblocks and increase each person’s probability of success.
Did you find any challenges when launching PS Group Holdings? Every business that is launched has challenges. Specifically for PS Group Holdings, I found working with smaller assets more challenging than working with significant assets. As an entrepreneur, I understand the struggles, but learning how others operated as entrepreneurs within their businesses was a challenge. Most lacked the fundamental basics that I expected to accelerate their business operations quickly. This forced me to restructure how I worked with small businesses and reframe the methodologies I created while collaborating with larger companies. This took time and caused delays in adding value to the assets I was targeting. Still, we were focused, consistent, and found a way to adapt and began supporting both small and large organizations with accelerating their value proposition. MARCH 2022 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 17
What are the key factors equity firms look for in start-ups? Most equity firms have their algorithm for what they search for in start-ups, but I focus heavily on the human capital and economics of the business. Starting with human capital, people are the backbone of a business. If you don’t have the right people, you will never succeed. So, I look for businesses with a champion who is willing to own the company’s success and failures. We can build a team around this champion if there is a champion. Next is economics. What I mean by economics pertains to the business’s costs, revenues, margin, and execution structure. Some companies fail at this aspect of operations, but this is only an equation. But with analysis, if it is viable to restructure the economics for success, then I am interested. I don’t look for perfection; I look for the economics to meet certain constraints, such as market reach potential, cost of conversion, margin opportunity, to name a few. What are the prime financial mistakes most companies make at the beginning? Most, if not all, companies fail to plan. Start-ups don’t understand how critical it is to control your operations. Too many lose sight of the economics because they have some early wins. They become lazy or content, and then the business failures snowball because they function as a reactive operation versus a proactive operation. All I can say is plan! If you set a roadmap, you leverage your actuals to adjust. If you don’t think you need to plan, prepare to fail or give up now. As an author of several books, the most recent being Never Broken Mindset, are there more in the works? I am currently working on a self-help book to guide individuals through dealing with stress and anxiety. Like everyone, I also deal with stress and anxiety. Therefore, I search for knowledge to learn strategies to overcome challenges to cope with challenges. This new book will provide readers with a framework they can employ to help recognize what causes stress and anxiety, strategies to cope, procedures to eliminate, and a model to accelerate and inflate your success.
For more information on PS Group Holdings, visit psgroupholdings.com Paul with team members (left to right): Murphy Bright, Mike Roberts and Nick Trepasso
Paul with team member Russ Blattner
Lastly, what is the best part of being CEO? The best part of being a Chief Everything Officer is that you have your hands in all aspects of a business, influence, learn, help people rise when there are challenges, and you can be lifted by the teams you support. Being a CEO is just a title. Learning how to be part of the business, the actual pulse of the company, and the teams you work with is the hard part and the most rewarding part of being a CEO.
FEATURES
JEREMY MURPHY HE’S READY FOR PRIME TIME By Eric Rutherford
eremy Murphy leaves an indelible impression with his words, presence, and sharpened skills for getting people noticed. At the beginning of the pandemic, he and I first met in 2020, and there was an immediate connection. A publicist and writer always looking for a good story, Jeremy had noticed my “Happy Tuesday” Instagram posts in which I share steps on staying positive and smiling. They meant a lot to him, and so he reached out to me through our mutual friend, Eddie Roche at the Daily Front Row, so he could share his thanks for helping him stay sane and profile me for this very magazine. In his line of work, sanity can often be a fleeting but priceless commodity. Now, Jeremy has taken all the tools and tricks of staying sane and thriving in the PR world and written them into a collection of prose titled, F*ck Off Chloe! Surviving the OMGs and FMLs in Your Media Career. It’s about the absurd, the amusing, and the darn right obnoxious talents and personalities he’s dealt with in his glorious 14-year career as a publicist. The book, which includes illustrations by artist Darren Greenblatt, is the perfect read for the plane, the beach, or simply when you need a good, laugh-out-loud, chuckle which we all could use right now. Here’s a portion of our conversation, which took place at Jeremy’s favorite haunt, Upper Eastside bar Felice. What compelled you to write a book? Boredom during COVID, Macallan, and having nothing to do. The inspiration came when I wrote a strategy memo for a client in which many people were cc’d, and someone named Chloe replied, “TLDR, LOL!” I didn’t know what that meant, so I Googled it. It means “Too long, didn’t read, lots of laughs.” At first, I was offended, but then I thought, no, that’s the funniest thing I’ve ever heard in my life. That’s where the book title came from because her name was Chloe, and I was like, F-off, Chloe! How long have you been in PR? I started as a journalist in 1996, and then I went into PR in 2000. What prompted you to move? Money.
© Mark Grgurich
I love it. Just tell it like it is. I was at Mediaweek Magazine, and CBS made an offer and doubled my salary. It was not a hard decision. So, you made the jump. Did you love it? Not at first, because I think like a journalist; it took a while to like the job because journalists hate PR people. I had to retrain myself and see things through a PR lens. Being a journalist helped because I know how a journalist writes, which gave me a significant advantage. Having been in the entertainment industry for years, or on many different sides of it, as a journalist, you’re seeking the truth, you’re trying to find the story, and you’re building it. Whereas with a PR person, you create the truth of what you want to tell. We call it truthiness. It’s like a cotton candy version of the truth. What was one of your highlights of working at CBS? I created their glossy magazine, Watch, and managed that for ten years. We produced photo shoots around the world, and it was just incredible. I went everywhere—Paris, London, Milan, Florence, Rome, Shanghai, Sydney, even Bora Bora! And then I would go home to eat Cheerios for dinner.
22 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | MARCH 2022
Did you enjoy that or find it stressful? It was very stressful because a great deal of money and reputations are at stake and, a lot of that can twist and turn on PR. So, there was a trial by fire that I’m glad to have experienced, but I wouldn’t want to go back. When you were writing the book, were you laughing or were you… I was cracking up. It’s so inappropriate but funny. I even have a chapter about how to be woke. How to be woke? This is going to get me in so much trouble. First, tell people you are woke. Then, emote. Be offended once a day. Ignore and discard any opinion that refutes your own. Cancel subscriptions. Friend Rose McGowan. March into protest no matter the cause—shame people who didn’t rescue their dog. Patrol everyone’s jewelry and accessories for cultural appropriation. Don’t shop somewhere, don’t watch something, claim your power, find your voice, identify your oppressor.
Jeremy Murphy with Allison Janney and Anna Farris by Patrick Demarchelier
As much as you’re talking about the absurdities and putting a spotlight on the craziness and the truths, there is a point to this book. And while people are laughing or being offended, they might have a revelation. That’s why I want everybody to stop and say, “You know what? I’m taking myself too seriously.” Everybody needs to laugh and realize that it’s okay to disagree; it’s okay to find something objectionable without canceling that person. Finishing this book during COVID, were you thinking, what am I going to do with it, and is anybody even going to be interested? I started making lists of things that annoy me most, and I would post them on the PR and Marketing Czars private Facebook group, and it caught fire. Fortunately, a woman from Skyhorse Publishing, who bought the book, was part of that group. She called me and thought this could be bigger, and I had an offer within a week. As someone in PR getting ready to promote a product yourself, how hard is it to adapt to new platforms and channels like social media? And where do you see media going? I’m torn about this because I see the value in social media, but it’s becoming a garbage pail. You’re getting misinformation, foreign countries manipulating elections, teen suicide because they see someone else’s false reality and feel that they don’t have it, and trolls. I don’t think anybody saw this coming when they created it. I remember when Facebook first came out, I loved it because it allowed me to connect to family and old friends. Now the stuff that people post is horrible and often provokes arguments. People live online and put way too much credence in these false realities.
Jeremy Murphy and Illustrator Darren Greenblatt by Kim Myers Robertson.
Which your book addresses. Yes, several times. I have a chapter called Reasons Why PR People Drink on page 87. And then, I have a chapter called “How to Interview With Anna.” It’s very complimentary to her. I might one day get eye contact. So why should people buy your book? It’s funny! It’s a great way to laugh, and I wrote what you’re thinking, but you’re afraid to say it. It’s so silly and snotty, and I’m not taking anything seriously. I’m just poking fun at stuff.
Everybody needs to laugh and realize that it’s okay to disagree; it’s okay to find something objectionable without canceling that person.
My final question to you: who do you want to play Chloe in the movie? Chloe would be like a Dakota Johnson. Someone who excels at playing vapid. If this ever goes to the screen, I think that my character should be a woman because I believe the interaction between an older man and a young female is just so politicized right now. It could be read so many ways. Let’s say it’s a limited series on HBO Max, and the character based on you is cast as female. Any thoughts? Sarah Paulson would be perfect. Another possibility is Scarlett Johansson. Do you remember when she appeared on Saturday Night Live? She was amazing. Who knew she was so adept at comedy? I’ll look forward to HBO Max in 2023. Thank you. For more information on F**k Off Chloe, visit amazon.com MARCH 2022 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 23
Marilyn Hoffman AMERICA’S $100 MILLION DOLLAR REALTOR By Cecilia Ruane
MARILYN HOFFMAN’S expertise in selling extraordinary farms, ranches, and estate properties attracts a clientele that reads like a Who’s Who of business, sports, entertainment, and the social register. Golfer Lee Trevino, a Saudi Prince, sports legend Deion Sanders, transportation secretary Milo Bryant, a billionaire Texas oilman, Horatio Alger member Carl Westcott, cosmetics queen Mary Kay, Merv Griffin, and a major sports team owner have all been her clients. Marilyn recently made history by listing the most expensive home in Texas, a $100,000,000 property. She also sold one of the largest estates in Texas to the new owners of a major sports team. Her sale of a $9,995,000 penthouse in Dallas was the most expensive penthouse ever sold in Dallas. Marilyn sold a $13,500,000 estate to the owners of a Scottish castle. Her most recent sale was a $20,000,000 estate that she listed, sold, and closed for full price in 24 days. This 35,000 square foot home was the largest and most expensive sale in the state. This estate was previously listed with another international realtor at a lower price and did not sell.
Marilyn Hoffman ©Billy Campbell
“Marilyn’s aggressive approach to the international marketing of the property resulted in a completed transaction in five months from start to finish. I’m hasten to add that the prior agencies failed completely to do any effective marketing of Brantley Manor, although I did spend a substantial upfront marketing fee with them.” Eugene L. Brantley, Esquire Seller of a 13,000 sq. ft. South Carolina Mansion
Marilyn Hoffman sold this 35,000 sq. ft. $20,000,000 estate for full price in only 24 days. It was previously listed with another international realtor for years unsuccessfully. MARCH 2022 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 25
MEADOWLAND FARM LaGRANGE, KENTUCKY
MEADOWLAND FARM One of the Landmark Kentucky Estates LaGrange, Kentucky Formerly the LaCroix Farm, this stately mansion sits at the end of a long tree lined drive overlooking 82 picturesque Bluegrass acres and 2 fountained lakes. This landmark farm has one of the great Kentucky mansions, a 12,000 square foot Neo-classical-style home with an 1885-circa historical restored guesthouse and a state-of-the-art equestrian facility with 48 custom stalls, 3 grooming bays, lounge and office, 3 wash stalls, an indoor walker, a 240’ indoor arena and a 270’ outdoor riding arena. Meadowland Farm embodies the quintessential Kentucky bluegrass farm, in the equestrian community of L’Esprit, offering direct access to 26 miles of trails. There are 6 bedrooms in the main home, including a complete 26 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | MARCH 2022
guest suite with kitchen and private entry. It is in perfect condition with recent renovations to the main home, barn, fencing and landscaping. There are 6 fireplaces, a 4-car garage, lavish entertaining areas, downstairs master suite, finished basement with wine cellar and exercise room. The stone guesthouse has 3 bedrooms, 2 baths and has been lovingly restored. Offered at: $3,900,000. Contact Marilyn Hoffman at Hoffman International Properties (MarilynHoffmanRealtor.com; 214-698-1736 or 214-674-3961). •
MeadowlandKentucky.com
MARCH 2022 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 27
WILLIS BRANCH
RICHMOND, KENTUCKY
WILLIS BRANCH THE ULTIMATE KENTUCKY ESTATE Richmond, Kentucky Perfect for grand-scale entertaining and family living, with huge entertaining areas, as well as 6 spacious bedrooms and 7 full bathrooms. For outdoor entertaining, there are extensive terraces overlooking the saltwater pool and the 150-acre private lake. In winter, your heated floors keep you toasty and warm. The gourmet kitchen has a cabinet-level fireplace used for warmth and for cooking. Lush master suite features a steam sauna, a separate makeup area, and a walk-in closet made of American cherrywood. 28 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | MARCH 2022
The highlight of the property is a $3 million 2,000 squarefoot nuclear/biological fallout shelter and separate mother-in-law suite. The property also features 2 natural gas wells which is a huge saving on your utilities. Just listed, this spectacular estate is offered at $6,500,000 or $6,900,000 including lavish furnishings. Owner will also consider selling the home with 10 acres for $4,500,000. Contact Marilyn Hoffman at Hoffman International Properties (MarilynHoffmanRealtor.com; 214-698-1736 or 214-674-3961). •
MARCH 2022 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 29
PROFILE
SKYLAR BRANDT
A BALLET SENSATION WHO IS TIP-TOEING TO STARDOM By Bailey Beckett
kylar Brandt, 28, is among the most celebrated ballet dancers of her generation. The American Ballet Theatre principal dancer has devoted two decades to constant practice, rehearsals, and performance, all in pursuit of excellence in a profession that accepts nothing less. In February 2020, she danced the lead in Giselle, replacing an ailing Misty Copeland; later that year, ABT promoted her to principal dancer. She has cultivated an immense social media following, inspiring future dancers and entrancing everyone else in the ultimate marriage of artistry and athleticism. For her work, Brandt has recently been named to Forbes “30 Under 30” list, spotlighting the brightest and best in their respective fields. The distinction is not lost on Brandt, who shares, “I am in total disbelief. It is cool to be a part of that list with some incredibly talented people.” The recognition comes on the heels of audiences returning to embrace live performance, which for New York City theaters, resumed in the fall of 2021, only to be interrupted again in the winter as the Omicron variant swept the country. The initial shutdown was historic in its scope, leaving the performing arts in tatters as artists left the city in droves, Brandt being no exception. “I was devastated when everything shut down in March of 2020,” she says. “I felt that I had lost momentum, but I shifted my perspective and realized that everyone is going through this simultaneously. So, I decided to see it as a gift of time that I wouldn’t otherwise have until retirement.”
A YOUNG SKYLAR
“My parents frequently exposed us to professional ballet, Broadway, and orchestra performances, but it wasn’t until I began seeing ABT performances as a child that I knew what I wanted to do with my life,” the dancer says. “When I was eight years old, I told my parents, and they were taken aback because most people do not know what they want to do even when they graduate college.” Brandt benefitted from unwavering parental support. “My parents made unbelievable sacrifices to enable me to pursue this. It was expensive. It was time-consuming. It was emotional and challenging. It’s hard to do without that level of support.” Her ballet résumé is extensive, as one would assume for a dancer of Brandt’s training. She has performed in some of the most famous works in classical ballet: Swan Lake, La Bayadère, Dox Quixote and, of course, The Nutcracker.
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HER FAVORITE WORKS
“Two of my favorite ballets growing up were Don Quixote and Romeo and Juliet, so to be able to perform them with the company that I aspired to join so many years later touches my heart. It’s hard to pick a favorite.” Classical ballet and opera remain a rarified performing art to which not everyone has access, restricted by geography or economics. Still, Brandt sees change taking hold and bringing ballet to a new audience. “I see a shift in culture in the U.S.,” she explains. “A lot of dancers have a strong social media presence to give visibility to what we do.” Brandt has tremendous admiration for those who came before her and an equal amount of respect for those who will follow in her toe shoe footsteps. “I was so fortunate to grow up watching a golden period of ABT in which it didn’t matter what night you bought a ticket because it was star-studded each night of the week,” she explains. “Stars like Marcelo Gomes, Gillian Murphy, Angel Corella, and Nina Ananiashvilithose were the people whom I looked up to and aspired to fill their shoes. But it is the responsibility of the artist to make the audience fall in love with the art form.”
THE YOUNG FANS
“I was that eight-year-old girl, so it makes me emotional to meet someone young who wants to do what I am doing,” the dancer says. “I try to inspire them and try to give back as much as I can.” As for the current state of ballet, Brandt is optimistic about its future. “I feel that there is so much excitement and thrill for the audience that had come back, especially in the fall 2021 season when we returned to the stage after an absence of 18 months,” she says. “The audience at the Koch Theater at Lincoln Center was unlike anything I have ever experienced before. Because people were deprived of live theater for so long, there was a new appreciation and energy from the audience. I hope that the excitement doesn’t die down the further we move away from the pandemic. But I do not think it will because we have learned to not take anything for granted.” This year, Brandt will make her lead debuts in Swan Lake and Don Quixote, in addition to a tour. She looks forward to meeting fans who have discovered her through social media. “It feels so rewarding to inspire the next generation.” And that she will do.
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LIFE & STYLE
WORK & UNWIND EDITION By Griffin Miller
month known for ominous ides, St. Patrick’s Day, the launch of Daylight-Saving Time and, of course, Madness, March gets my vote for the calendar’s most capricious month. Kicking winter to the curb as it launches into spring (on the 20th), March has me revitalizing my home office, revisiting the joys of journaling, and amping up all things R & R & R (Rest, Repair & Regenerate). Hopefully, this vetted collection will serve as inspiration to indulge in a few ingenious March makeovers of your own. WEARING OF THE GREEN
My sartorial addition to St. Patrick’s Day has always been my shamrock socks. This year, they met their match in Kizik’s Madrid Sneakers in olive green (far more vibrant than Olive 101). Available in other colors and styles, Kizik’s superpower rests in their design: you slip into them as you would mules or flip flops (the heel compresses, then bounces back once your foot is in place). If bending is an issue or, like me, running late is de rigueur, you totally need to check out these sublimely comfortable contemporary kicks. Info: kizik.com
TOO-RA-LOO-RA-COOKIE!
When it comes to holidays and kids, sweet treats inevitably take center stage. For St. Paddy’s Day, why not add creativity to the mix by having leprechauns, shamrocks, and rainbows (with pots of gold, naturally!) light a delectable artistic spark in wee ones through a Luck o’ the Irish Color My Cookie Decorating Kit. Sparkly glitter paint, a medley of sprinkles, and edible watercolors await their imaginations as they turn pre-cut frosted cookies into mini-masterpieces and, ultimately, dessert! Info: colormycookie.com
EVERYTHING IN THE GARDEN
Two months out, May blooms are still getting their act together underground, so why not turn to rich-hued wildflowers to boost your spirits when the skies are overcast. The True + Luscious Flora Furiosa Palette, comprised of ten tantalizing eyeshadow shades, takes its pigment cues from survivalist blooms like buttercups, foxglove, trilliums and irises—flowers that defy any harsh conditions Mother Nature throws at them. Velvety and, as I discovered and adore, flattering alone or blended. In short, go-to gorgeous. Info: trueluscious.com
LEGACY OF STYLE
There’s something decidedly Jane Austen about curling up with a journal and pen. Inviting you to spill romantic encounters and creative insights (or vent about boors, bores, bad service, and Netflix), these writing companions are elevated to exquisite in Pen Heaven. Their Almalfi Refillable Journal, handmade in Italy of sumptuous leather wrapped around cream pages, seduced me the second I opened the box. And, as their name implies, they are a haven for handsome fountain pens and ballpoints. Info: penheaven.com 32 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | MARCH 2022
REGAL EGALITY
It started when a 12-year-old asked her dad why the queen card in the deck was worth less than the king. As no good answer exists, the two created Queeng Playing Cards, featuring Monarchs (kings and queens); Duchesses and Dukes; and Princesses and Princes (instead of Jacks). Eventually, a second generation of cards celebrating diversity, was born. Impressive, that after centuries, we finally have a multi-ethnic, equalitydriven deck of cards. With striking hand-drawn art, Queeng clearly gives new meaning to “fair play.” Info: queengcards.com
MOVIN’ ON UP
As a buzz word, “productivity” has become a bit of a bête noire. Before Covid-19, offices promoted efficiency with standing desks, a solution to sitting all day that evaporated when working from home became the new norm. Thankfully, FlexiSpot has produced a line of standing desks that redefine remote well-being. Their All-inOne Comhar Standing Desk, boasting sleek good looks, three USB charging ports, four programmable heights and a pull-out drawer, has become this workaholic’s ergonomic savior. #musthave! Info: flexispot.com
DREAM ON
Even as a kid, I was drawn to the vintage vibe of cotton ticking stripes. They were our bed-pillow cases (a hand-me-down from my grandmother) until my mother graduated to tacky floral blends. But the heft and simplicity of the ticking stripes haunted me. Similar-looking fabrics never measured up. Until Red Land Cotton Ticking Stripe Sheet Sets. It was love at first sight… touch… catnap. Inspired by the 1920s originals, including their 140 thread-count, this luxury bedding is as much the real deal as it is nostalgia personified. Info: redlandcotton.com
INTERIORITY COMPLEX
In 2020, when our homes became our lives, disorder reigned via piles of laundry, homework, projects… stuff! While we’ve (hopefully) moved on from unmitigated clutter, size alone dictates New York apartments will always be susceptible. 1THRIVE, refusing to accept chaos as a lifestyle, has redefined domestic sanity with upscale, customizable wall systems that serve as organizational command centers. “The Grayson,” with its matte black/silver good looks, has positively de-tangled my loopy scheduling routine. Info: 1thrive.com
REASON TO SMILE
On TikTok, I automatically scroll past anyone suggesting minibathrooms can be expanded upon. A tiny countertop is a tiny countertop. Period. Which is sad when you have a sizeable water flosser and an electric toothbrush battling for sink-side real estate. Ta-da: The AquaSonic HDCPro, transformative, both dentally and spatially. The flosser, with multiple pressure settings, shares its compact unit with a state-of-the-art ultrasonic toothbrush (six brush heads: fast wireless charging). Info: aquasonic.com MARCH 2022 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 33
LIFE & STYLE
CULTURE CAPSULE HOME & LIFESTYLE REVIEWS By Melanie Carden
PLANKPAD
One thing is sure; it’s unlikely you’ll ever get bored of this board. Plankpad is an interactive full-body workout system. Unlike other products on the market, Plankpad’s app is free—and the product overdelivers on its promises. Moreover, its simplicity is a breath of fresh air amongst fitness apps that, at times, create a faux sense of value through unnecessary bells and whistles. So how does it work? Well, the app is synchronized with the Plankpad. Just lay your phone on the board, position yourself in a plank position, and then your movements control the games and workouts. Choose from traditional exercises or interactive games. And, here this, my friends. These games will have you happily hooked. Indeed, it simultaneously taps into your inner child and competitor. Before you know it, 20-minutes went by, and your abs are quivering with that satisfying fire of a worthy workout. And the best part? You can connect your mobile device to a Smart TV and compete against friends and family! Perfect for: Folks who find it challenging to self-motivate through a workout, people looking for a whole-body training system for a small living space, kids who love movement-based games. Info: plankpad.com
IVY BY BELLABEAT
Sure, fitness trackers are common these days. The Ivy by Bellabeat bracelet, however, is something altogether different. Finally, a biometric health and wellness tracker designed specifically for women. Whereas most wearables are unisex, Ivy correlates your biometric and lifestyle data to the four phases of the menstrual cycle. Combined with your sleep, fitness, and restorative practices such as meditation, Ivy empowers you to understand your body’s bio-response to daily activities to make the right decisions for your psychophysical readiness. It measures your resting heart rate, respiratory rate, and cardiac coherence, combining with your other inputs to reveal your bio-response to recent activities, stress, and emotions. That being the case, I was intrigued. So, during the testing, I was keen to see how it would impact my day-to-day, if at all. In short, I was delightfully surprised the “readiness score” did prove valuable. For example, I had a hectic day and restless sleep, and the following day’s readiness score was a little low. It prompted me to curate my day accordingly. Perfect for: Women who want to be more in tune with their body’s rhythm, those looking to start a family, and women who appreciate real-time, visual health, and self-awareness. Info: bellabeat.com
SINGER SEWING MACHINE
The days of clunky, awkward sewing machines used solely by our beloved, old-school grandmothers are long gone. Instead, we live in an era of extraordinary makers-mentality. Not only do we value artisan-made goods, whether from Etsy or an artisan’s brick and mortar store – but we also love all things DIY. There are entire television shows devoted to everything from home makeovers to DIY craft projects. It’s a fun time to be alive, folks! With that in mind, the Singer C9920 is your open invitation to dabble in the creativity and usefulness of sewing. This innovative, computerized machine offers 810 stitch applications and five fonts. Additionally, the LCD screen adds valuable ease-of-use benefits if you’re new to sewing. Whether you want to try your hand at a custom design or are tired of paying for alterations, technology is on your side. Perfect for: Anyone who understands the importance of properly fitted clothing, people who want to tackle creative textile projects, those who follow Paris Fashion Week on Instagram and have thought, “Well, heck—I can do that!” Info: singer.com 34 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | MARCH 2022
LIFE & STYLE
LIVING THE LIFE
FOX RUN GOLF CLUB DELIVERS WITH STYLE By Peter Elston
uppose you love to golf with some style. In that case, we have the perfect place for you: Fox Run Golf Club, located in Ludlow, Vermont, which incorporates the best of the natural beauty from the Green Mountains and the Okemo Valley attracting visitors from near and far. Each of the eighteen holes has complex, natural elements that highlight the breathtaking mountainside terrain. The greens are undulating and fast, putting all golfers’ skills, talent, ability, and competence to the test. Fox Run’s greens, tees, and fairways are all bent grass, and there are multiple tee areas. Fox Run also has a 9,200 square-foot clubhouse with locker rooms and a well-stocked pro shop stocked with fashionable and functional apparel as well as the most recent cutting-edge equipment.
SOPHISTICATED PRACTICE
For beginners and seasoned golfers looking to improve their game, Fox Run has the best training facility in the region. Their pro, Mark Senecal, teaches small clinics and provides individual quality instruction. In addition, a four-hole practice course allows new golfers to get a feel for the game by playing shorter holes while allowing other players to work on various skills. The driving range is one of the most scenic and well-kept in New England. All six acres offer golfers the opportunity to practice on grass tees or mats. They have a putting green, a pitching area, and several manicured practice bunkers in their chipping area. During the winter and inclement weather, they have an indoor golf simulator and an indoor practice putting green where participants can virtually play more than twenty courses. The Golf Simulator is an excellent tool for practicing or playing golf. Stroke, skins, or match play for four teams of up to four players each. Bocce courts, horseshoe pits, and cornhole toss are part of their new Field of Games.
DINING WITH FINESSE
Businessman Troy Caruso bought the resort in April 2021. He immediately began improving the facilities, from new GPS-tracked golf carts to a total renovation of the restaurant Calcuttas, which includes a bar, full-service restaurant, and a patio. and a patio. Led by Culinary Director Chef Andrew Molen, he previously operated the kitchens at East Hampton’s The Maidstone Inn. Andrew has also impacted as a leader at some of New York’s finest restaurants, including Todd English Group. Fox Run opened the second of their two newly renovated restaurants: the Alta Tuscan Grille. Molen will also be at the helm of this modern Italian steakhouse and bar that offers a tasty selection of perfectly grilled meats, fresh fish, and al dente creative pasta dishes. In addition, a proposed renovated 60-room inn is scheduled for opening in 2023. With meticulous attention to detail, their goal is to create a club that members will be proud of. Come to Fox Run Club and discover why it has been noticed as one of the best new courses and most scenic courses by Golf Week and Golf Digest. For more information on Fox Run Club, visit forungolf.org MARCH 2022 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 35
TRAVEL
6 REASONS TO VISIT
I RELAND By Patricia Canole
reland’s small size tempts visitors to see the entire country in a single trip. The distances look short on a map, and the miles seem modest, but don’t be deceived. Trying to get from Killarney to Galway between lunch and dinner means rushing through Counties Limerick and Clare and missing the essence of Ireland. Here is my sampling of the experiences that make Ireland pure magic. STATELY HOMES
Ashford Castle, County Mayo This gorgeous hotel embodies the fantasy of an Irish castle featuring a historic stone facade, complete with towers and turrets. Beautiful, manicured grounds a stunning setting on a vast lake make it worthwhile. Shared spaces are truly grand, with rich wood paneling, chandeliers, and antique furniture. Once the home of the Guinness clan, Ashford Castle became a local hotel in 1939 and over the decades has been refurbished to make each guest feel like royalty. There’s plenty to do outdoors: fishing, boating, falconry lessons, golf, clay shooting, and archery.
THE BEST FOOD FESTIVALS
Galway International Oyster Festival, County Galway Another must-do festival is The Galway International Oyster & Seafood Festival. The annual event is scheduled for September 23rd – 25th this year in the center of Galway City. During this famous food festival, you can expect to experience a wide variety of tempting events to enjoy from seafood trails. Oyster shucking championships top the list along with food tastings in some of Galway’s finest restaurants. Also, don’t forget the music, cooking demonstration, and the Hot Oyster Awards cooking challenge!
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GREAT WALKS
The Burren/Cliffs of Moher, County Clare Almost any hiker will tell you that the footpaths of a country—not its roadways—show off the landscape to best advantage. One shining example is The Burren, mile upon mile of all-but-bare rock. But there is magnificence, nonetheless. Distances are short; views across Galway Bay to Connemara and the Aran Islands are genuinely inspiring. In May, cracks that seam the limestone sprout a stunning collection of rare flowering plants. Sheltered from the Atlantic winds, blossoms transform the landscape. A few miles to the south, the mighty Cliffs of Moher offer a cliff-top walk, and the most extensive cave system in Ireland lies beneath. Both The Burren and Cliffs of Moher are UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
DISCOVER HISTORY
Brú na Bóinne, County Meath In a country as ancient and storied as Ireland, historic sites seem to be everywhere. One of the most important is Brú na Bóinne, which means the “Palace of the Boyne,” which refers to the area in proximity of the River Boyne and contains one of the world’s most important prehistoric landscapes and is located close to the east coast of Ireland. The three famous large passage tombs dominate the archaeological landscape within Brú nan Bóinne, Knowth, Newgrange, and Dowth, built 5,000 years ago in the Neolithic or Late Stone Age. Immensely popular yearround, The Brú na Bóinne tombs, particularly Knowth, contain the largest assemblage of megalithic art in Western Europe.
TAKE IN THE SCENERY
EXPLORING THE CITY
History, Theater & Guinness, County Dublin If you are a city dweller at heart, then you’ll love Dublin City and its hustle and bustle environment. Hotels surround the main pedestrian thoroughfare, Grafton Street, where you’ll find shopping galore and the best people-watching in all of Ireland. If there’s a football (soccer) match, note that Grafton Street is where the revelers will come should Ireland win big. At one end of Grafton Street, Trinity College is open for tours, and you can see the famous Book of Kells. If you’re not sure what to see first, take a quick bus tour of the city—you’ll see it’s easy to navigate, and you’ll be sure to discover something interesting. Be sure to take in a night of theater—the Abbey Theatre’s most noted. Founded by W.B. Yeats, the artistic programs include Irish drama and many new productions reflecting Irish society. Over the years, the Abbey has premiered the works of significant playwrights, including Marina Carr, Frank McGuinness, Tom Murphy. For a real taste of Ireland, please take a tour of Guinness Brewery and sample the wares at their bar afterward. The facility gives a behind-the-scenes look: Witness the brewing process, get firsthand experience pulling pints, and, of course, sample the final product. Then, enjoy the brew with traditional Irish meals in one of four on-site eateries. Or, if you prefer whiskey Jamison Distillery on the River Liffey offers frequent tours and tastings. Finally, if you haven’t had enough nightlife, be sure to visit the Temple Bar area, off Dame Street. Here, in the middle of Dublin, you’ll meet a global crowd from dozens of countries over drinks and dinner, and you’re sure to leave the Emerald Isle knowing new friends.
Rock of Cashel, County Tipperary Ireland’s scenery is breathtaking and beyond compare. West Cork, Dingle, the Ring of Kerry, and the West—the list of Instagram-worthy sights is endless. One place is the Rock of Cashel (also known as St. Patrick’s Rock) in County Tipperary. From the 12th century, this fortress boasts a round tower, cathedral, and chapel bearing priceless Celtic art and medieval architecture. For more information on Ireland and her many adventures, visit ireland.com
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TRAVEL
SPRING GETAWAYS 2022 EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW By Norah Bradford
ravel is frequently about more than just deciding where to go, but also about deciding when to go. Many of the world’s most popular vacation destinations are best visited in the Spring. Travelers can often find pleasant temperatures, fewer tourists, and beautiful accommodations before the peak Summer crowds arrive. There are even some destinations perfect for those looking to enjoy the lingering effects of the winter season for a snowy ski vacation. Here are six must-see this Spring. London, England
The Mayfair Townhouse The Mayfair Townhouse surprises and redefines what it means to be a London hotel. The extravagant London hotel in the heart of Mayfair is a new generation of lifestyle hotels. The Mayfair Townhouse has a variety of exquisite room options. The Dandy Bar is The Townhouse›s heart and soul and is the pinnacle of bespoke cocktails. Instead of a traditional restaurant, The Mayfair Townhouse invites you to The Lower Ground Floor, a vibrant space located downstairs off the entrance lobby. Mayfair embodies status, heritage, and prestige, and it is surrounded by world-class shopping, bespoke retailers, fine dining restaurants, and cultural attractions. The Mayfair Townhouse combines luxury with the thrill of the unexpected. Info: themayfairtownhouse.com
Los Angeles, CA
L›Ermitage Beverly Hills L’Ermitage Beverly Hills, founded in 1975 on a palm-lined residential boulevard, is a discreet, luxurious retreat just a stone’s throw from the beating heart of Beverly Hills. L’Ermitage Beverly Hills is the world’s longest-tenured Forbes 5-star allsuite hotel, provides travelers with exceptional service. Their 116 suites maintain the hotel’s original residential elegance while offering guests a variety of spacious layouts and modern appointments. Guests staying at the L’Ermitage Beverly Hills can work out in the modern fitness center or relax with a drink in the trendy Lounge. The hotel’s Avec Nous restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Info: lermitagebeverlyhills.com
Aspen, CO
Hotel Jerome It is no surprise that Hotel Jerome, Auberge Resorts Collection is at or near the top of the list of hotels in the jet-set skier’s preferred destination. The Little Nell and Silver Queen Gondola ski elevators are a 10-minute walk from the hotel. Hotel Jerome, which is celebrating its 133rd year of operation this year, has seen several changes. Most notably, the addition of Bad Harriet, a hidden-in-plain-sight speakeasy experience located inside the neighboring former Aspen Times newspaper building. Chef Rob Zack, who has been with the hotel for over two decades, continues to apply his culinary artistry to the modern American bistro cuisine served in Prospect, the hotels main restaurant. Info: aubergeresorts.com/hoteljerome 38 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | MARCH 2022
Palm Beach, FL
Chesterfield Palm Beach The historic Chesterfield Palm Beach, surrounded by palm-lined boulevards, is steps away from Worth Avenue and white sandy beaches. It combines exceptional hospitality with old-world charm, as evidenced by its sophisticated interiors and exquisitely designed rooms and suites. Executive Chef Gerard Coughlin and his team have created a delicious fusion menu of classic international dishes, served alongside much-loved signature recipes by the hotel’s founder Beatrice Tollman, such as Maryland Style Lump Crab Cakes, Gerard’s Turkey Burger, Shrimp Stroganoff, and Key Lime Pie, at the hotel’s restaurant, the legendary Leopard Lounge & Restaurant. Info: chesterfieldpb.com
Las Vegas, NV
MGM Grand The elegant resort on the Las Vegas Strip, MGM Grand, has a large casino with a gaming floor, tropical-inspired pools, and a variety of dining options. McCarran International Airport is only 10 minutes away. The resort’s accommodations are decorated in both contemporary and classic styles. MGM Grand’s pool areas include private cabanas and a lazy river. Dining options include awardwinning restaurants such as Craftsteak. Tom Colicchio is the Top Chef personality and James Beard Award-winning chef who serves up classic steakhouse dishes. Info: mgmresorts.com
Austin, TX
Four Seasons Located in the heart of downtown Austin, Four Seasons offers spacious rooms overlooking idyllic Lady Bird Lake. On the property, there is a heated saltwater pool. Guests can work out in the cuttingedge fitness center or relax with a spa treatment at the award-winning Spa at Four Seasons Hotel Austin. Ciclo, the onsite restaurant, is located on the propertys lower level and overlooks Lady Bird Lake. It serves a menu of flavors and ingredients inspired by the region, with a Latin twist. Info: fourseasons.com/austin
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TRAVEL
LIFE’S A BEACH
A WEEKEND GETAWAY TO CARDOZO SOUTH BEACH HOTEL By AP Connolly | Photography by Neil J. Tandy
suppose you thought Gloria and Emilio Estefan were just a power couple in the music industry. If so, you’ll be surprised to discover they have also succeeded in the hospitality business. After success with Costa d’Este Beach Resort & Spa in Vero Beach, the couple also owns the historic Cardozo South Beach Hotel, regarded as an Ocean Drive hot spot. Initially built in 1939, Cardozo Hotel was already an iconic retreat among the stars, featured in such blockbusters as There’s Something About Mary and Any Given Sunday and Birdcage. After the Estefans took ownership in 1992, the hotel went under an extensive multi-year, $15-million renovation, making it Miami Beach’s next hot spot. The hotel reopened in 2019 with a design that kept the Art Deco spirit but modernized it with a fresh white motif spanning the lobby and the forty-one guest rooms. And although the hotel lacks a pool and gym, there’s plenty to do starting right across the street at Lummus Park and the glorious beach
THE STAR TREATMENT
Both Gloria and Emilio grew up in Miami and embraced a deep passion for the city. Redesigning the hotel has, in a way, mirrored the evolution the city has experienced. They have maintained Cardozo’s historic Art Deco exterior that initially captures you, as well as the completely redesigned interior. Today, you’ll find upon arrival modern elements with a mix of the property’s original décor. The lobby may remind guests of an intimate, homey B&B instead of a multi-story hotel. Another beautiful touch seen throughout the public spaces is some of the couple’s own décor items creating a relaxed, laidback atmosphere. The Hotel Manager, Stephen, and his staff provide personalized service with a smile and always go the extra mile to make a stay more enjoyable. Guest suites are clean comfortable and boast a contemporary design featuring mother-of-pearl headboards, matte white walls, and luxurious bath accents. The crisp bed linens make sleeping a joy. Those looking for a superstar experience can reserve the 1,500 square-foot penthouse suite that fills the hotel’s top floor. The suite has two king-sized bedrooms, two master bathrooms with soaking tubs and double showers, a living/dining room, and a dressing area—custom furnishings complete this South Beach picture.
MARCH 2022 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 41
The Estefan’s Cuban heritage carries over to the hotel’s famous Call Me Cuban restaurant. Here, the James Beard award-winning team stirs up an excellent menu of fresh, vibrant flavors and cocktails. Quesadillas, empanadas, and tacos are the ingredients of a perfect brunch, lunch, or dinner. Of course, Miami’s beautiful beaches will always be the number one draw for visitors. But it’s also the city’s culture, architecture, nightlife, and people that continue to make it one of the most popular destinations in the world. For more information on Cardozo South Beach, visit cardozohotel.com
EXPLORING SOUTH BEACH Glamour is part of everyday life in Miami—celebrities, mansions, and entertainment are the order of the day. Nowhere is this exhibited more than in South Beach. It can feel at times like a never-ending feast for the senses. From the classic swooping facades and meticulous neon of the city’s signature deco designs to its nonstop beach life and vibrant party scenes, South Beach exemplifies a unique brand of Floridian oceanside chic.
COLOR YOUR WORLD
South Beach (SoBe to most) is best known for its sunny take on Art Deco architecture. However, only in South Beach does this smooth Modernist style take on a particular hybrid of pastel palettes and sleek curves, buttresses, and contours, meant to evoke early 20th-century train and ocean travel. Whether hotels, restaurants, or even mansions (The Versace estate is a good example), stop and take in the beauty of a bygone era. Any day along Ocean Drive and Collins Avenue, you’ll find the elite crowd sipping cooling libations in hotel lounges and sidewalk cafés, bronzed cyclists zoom past palm trees, and visitors flocking to see the action. Well-tanned bikini-clad models and Lamborghinis will guarantee Instagram-worthy memories. But remarkably, the activity never ceases as crowds spill over onto sidewalks while open markets draw the masses. But, of course, soaking up the rays on the white sand beaches is always a must.
ARTS & CULTURE
In South Beach, art and culture can be found everywhere. Thanks to many sculptures, tapestries, acrylic and oil paintings, and every art imaginable created by local and international artists on display throughout hotels, restaurants, galleries, and public and private sites or venues year-round. Once a year, the art world comes alive during Art Basel, which embraces the world with exhibitions at museums and galleries across the city. At the same time, ambitious artworks and performances become part of the landscape at nearby beaches.
SHOPPING & ENTERTAINMENT
South Beach is a prime shopping and entertainment mecca, with an everchanging number of places to spend one’s time and money. The pedestrian-only, open-air Lincoln Road Mall features oneof-a-kind boutiques and name retailers with sidewalk cafes. In addition, a large variety of clothiers and fashion specialists call Collins Avenue home. When the sun sets on South Beach, daytime shoppers become nighttime club-hoppers at various nightspots (some exclusive). In South Beach, clubs can include dance clubs, lounges, and even restaurants pumping out the music until the next day. --APC
42 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | MARCH 2022
TRAVEL
BORGATA HOTEL CASINO & SPA ATLANTIC CITY’S DESTINATION FOR GLAMOUR By Bailey Beckett
fter years of retreat, Atlantic City has been showing renewed vigor and swag, and nothing reflects the new ’tude better than Borgata, a glittering metropolis of its own stealing the skyline. Yet, its sleek glass façade hardly tells what awaits inside. To wit: 2,000 rooms, in all shapes and sizes (including its signature Fiore and Opus suites). World-class dining (check out Iron Chef Michael Symon’s Sicilian and Greek-infused Angeline). Swanky bars and lounges (get tipsy at the Gypsy and its 100 flavors of tequila). Luxurious spa (wake up with the Espresso Limòn Slimming Wrap). And yes, gambling galore. The Vegas of the East offers everything to tickle your fancy and take your wallet. But who cares anymore? It’s about time there was something to blow your hard-earned money on (including dice).
WINNING ODDS
Rooms at Borgata are all upscale, tastefully decorated, and offer scenic views of the shore and AC skyline. Among the most luxe in Atlantic City, they come with all your essentials, but not too many: after all, they want you on the floor where the real action awaits. Once you arrive on the casino floor, you’ll notice the sweet din of exhilaration, especially after two years of COVID. The main floor bursts with jubilation, surprise, instant friends, and howls of winnings. Borgata’s casino boasts 161,000 square feet of risky decadence, including 176 gaming tables, 2,775 slot machines, and a 50+ table poker room. It’s far too easy to get lost in euphoria playing roulette, blackjack, baccarat, and many other games (who needs to pay rent?). As you throw the dice or get lost in the decks, servers offer a steady stream of cocktails, often on the house. And why wouldn’t it be? After two years of social isolation and hiding your wine glass from Zoom, a good buzz is love.
WINE & DINE
Wrapped around the casino floor is a mall-like concourse of upscale restaurants and bars, offering any palate pleasure. The cuisine is surprisingly succulent and luxe, rivaling Vegas’ fixation on Michelin-star obscene. Borgata’s American Bar & Grille offers sentimental favorites like Bigeye Tuna Crudo (topped with cucumbers, radish, green apple, and garlic chili ponzu); Wild Mushroom Pizza (sizzling with basil pesto, roasted garlic, and three kinds of cheese), a 16-ounce New York Strip Steak (served with Argentinian chimichurri;) and double-cut pork chop (drizzled with caramelized apples, Saba, and pomegranate), among other popular dishes.
More exotic is Izakaya, which treats guests to Sake flights, as well as Wagyu Beef Sliders and Japanese Scallop Sashimi. A particular favorite at the Borgata is Angeline, blending the best Mediterranean and Greek flavors with entrees like a Formaggi e Salumi Tasting Board, Chicken Parmesan, and wood-fired dishes like swordfish branzino, and strip steak. And, of course, no casino can deny a prime cut of steak. Old Homestead is the perfect place to blow your winnings. From prime rib to filet mignon, racks of lamb, and steakhouse burgers, the classic steakhouse re-interprets meat and potato flavors with authoritative sizzle. Drinking enthusiasts will savor bars aplenty at Borgata from the Gypsy to the Level One Cocktail Bar & Lounge for big spenders. Long Bar is great for long nights, while B Bar offers live entertainment. But if you want a stage of your own, look no further than Premier Nightclub: the perfect place to shake your booty after a night of buoy. Of course, after a night of wild, what better place to detox your mind, soul, and physique (hello, liver!) than a day of body indulgence. Spa Toccare offers facials, massages, and waxing, among other treatments. Borgata is the rare respite to offer fun for adults and families alike. Your experiences need not stay in Atlantic City, but your heart (and maybe money) sure will. For more information on Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa, visit borgata-mgmresorts.com
44 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | MARCH 2022
TRAVEL
AMERICA’S SOUTHWEST NATIONAL PARKS DESERT BEAUTY IN THE WILD WEST Text & Photos By Jenny Peters
s March rolls in like a lion on the East Coast, you might feel the lure of the warm desert calling to you. If so, this is a perfect time to jump on a plane and head to America’s desert southwest, where astonishingly beautiful and otherworldly landscapes will warm your senses and intoxicate your imagination With a focus on visiting southwest national parks across the region, this trip necessitates an automobile or RV, as public transportation is virtually impossible. So, plan to fly to Phoenix or Las Vegas as your jumping-off point and head off on an epic trip, allowing seven to ten days to roam the Wild West. In every park on this adventurous road trip, you can make your experience as strenuous or relaxing as you choose. We suggest Las Vegas as the start/end of this trip with its usually inexpensive flights from New York, including a stay at the all-suite Venetian Resort, with dinner dates at the resort’s sublime Estiatorio Milos, Brera Osteria, and Bouchon. From Vegas, start the trip by heading northeast into Utah to find some of the world’s most astonishing places, beginning with Zion National Park.
ZionNationalPark_Remembering Kathryn by David Pettit ©
UTAH
Zion National Park The state’s first national park is your introduction to the sandstone, making this region a visual cornucopia of colors and wacky shapes. First, take in Angel’s Landing, the massive rock formation that rises above the park; climb it to see breathtaking vistas of the park below. Next, slip into The Narrows, the slot canyon that will surely get your boots wet in the Virgin River, along with the challenging hikes that reward you with spectacular moments along the way. Finally, don’t miss the Emerald Pools Trail, where your hard hiking work is rewarded with three pools and numerous waterfalls.
Bryce Canyon hoodoos by Jenny Peters ©
Bryce Canyon National Park Next up is where hoodoos rule. Hoodoos are sandstone formations carved out by wind and water into fantastical shapes of widely varying sizes; you’ll see hoodoos across Utah and Arizona, and they will make you marvel at their sheer audacity. Bryce Canyon feels a bit like you’ve jumped into a Dr. Seuss book, with wiggly spires, wacky natural bridges, and more to be seen at every lookout along the 18-mile drive to the top of the canyon. But, of course, you can hike down into the canyon, too. Stay at the Best Western Plus in nearby Bryce, where their comfortable rooms and hearty complimentary breakfast get you ready for a full day of adventure. And go into the park at night, where the dark sky opens a breathtaking Milky Way vista; it’s open 24 hours a day. MARCH 2022 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 47
Capitol Reef National Park Here is the secret surprise of this trip, where vast cliffs of brilliantly hued sandstone loom high above the road, naturally decorated with bizarrely shaped hoodoos hanging in impossible angles. It’s a must-see spot that’s much less traveled than Arches National Park, found two more hours to the northeast in Moab. You’ll have to wait to enter Arches, as it’s one of America’s most iconic places. See Delicate Arch, Double Arch, Balanced Rock, and Corona Arch, and climb in the sandstone for as long or as little as you like. It’s worth the wait. Moab has plenty of hotels and restaurants to choose from, so stay there for the liveliest scene you’ll find in this most remote and quiet part of the world.
Jenny Peters ©
Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park Meander south down Route 191 from Moab, imagining how settlers negotiated these desert landscapes in covered wagons as outlaws roamed the traditionally Navajo territory region. As you get closer to Monument Valley, the iconic park that remains a part of the Navajo Nation, take a quick turn into Goosenecks State Park to see an astonishing example of how a river carves out sandstone as it flows. Be ready to gasp a little as you crest the hill and Monument Valley reveals itself and be braced to avoid (or join in) with people posing in the middle of the road, recreating the Forrest Gump moment shot there. Roll on into the valley, where Goulding’s Resort has welcomed visitors since the 1920s. Make one of their cottages your home base, and the view from your porch will be the same sandstone formations that evoke John Wayne’s classic Westerns. Take a driving tour in the park with a Navajo guide for a real insight into this magical land.
Jenny Peters ©
ARIZONA
Grand Canyon National Park Cross more desert landscapes as you head into Arizona toward the south rim of the Grand Canyon, the last major stop on this Wild West trip. One of the planet’s great wonders, the canyon, is best seen from a helicopter, so plan to splurge on a ride with Grand Canyon Helicopters for an unforgettable experience. And later, see the sun set from a perch right on the rim of the canyon for a fitting grand finale to an epic road trip. (Vegas and Phoenix airports are about four hours away.) For more information on all U.S. National Parks, visit nps.gov; for Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park, visit navajonationpars.org/monument-valley
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Jenny Peters ©
Welcome to a Tropical Paradise Dramatically situated overlooking Bermuda’s southwest coast, the 75 room family owned and operated Pompano Beach Club is a tropical paradise! The resort offers extensive recreational facilities, exceptional service and hospitality, gourmet cuisine, breathtaking ocean views from every guestroom and a casual, relaxed atmosphere. Whether you are interested in a Bermuda family holiday, golf vacation, honeymoon getaway, place to relax with your significant other or some fun in the sun, the Pompano Beach Club offers the intimacy of a boutique hotel and the amenities of a world-class beach resort. Pompano’s spectacular shallow waterfront is the only one of its kind in Bermuda, attracting beachgoers, snorkelers, water sports enthusiasts and swimmers of all ages and abilities. Golfers love having Port Royal, the island’s top ranked public course, right next door!
For more information and reservations, visit www.pompanobeachclub.com or call theirtheir reservations office at 1-800-343-4155 For more information and reservations, visit www.pompanobeachclub.com or call sales office at 1-800-343-4155 (toll-free from the U.S. and Canada) (toll-free from the U.S. and Canada)
REAL ESTATE & YOUR HOME
AROUND TOWN MURRAY HILL By AP Connolly
f you are looking to live off the beaten path in a low-key neighborhood, while still close enough to all of Manhattan’s luxuries, then Murray Hill may be the place to be. Centrally located, stretching from 34th to 42nd Streets between Fifth Avenue and the East River, Murray Hill boasts a range of choices from co-ops and condos to brownstones. If you like to get away on weekends, the midtown tunnel and Grand Central Station are conveniently located in the neighborhood. Murray Hill, is named for Robert Murray head of the mercantile family, who settled here in the 18th century. As years past, it remained a relatively isolated area. Then as the population moved north, Murray Hill became an upscale neighborhood during the 20th century. Today, it contains several cultural institutions, including the Morgan Library, as well as missions and consulates to the nearby United Nations headquarters.
LIVING IN MURRAY HILL
Here, some options to consider if Murray Hill is on your radar. Manhattan Place The 35-story Manhattan Place located at 630 First Avenue was designed by renowned architect Costas Kondylis and offers dazzling views; it has 487 spacious, light-filled condominium apartments. Built-in 1985, many of the building’s units have been renovated and feature state-of-the-art appliances, stone countertops, custom kitchen cabinets, and marble baths with deep soaking tubs. Great rooms anchor the building’s larger homes with stately columns, dens, and office nooks. Amenities include a 24-hour doorman and concierge, a grand lobby with a waterfall, an enclosed rooftop pool, two sun decks, a roof deck, and a 360-degree rooftop running track and a fully-equipped fitness center with steam and sauna rooms. Residents also have access to a party room, a garage, a laundry room, a children’s playroom, and bike and storage rooms. Nearby is a globe-spanning list of restaurants and excellent transportation. Info: City Realty at cityrealty.com The Corinthian Located at 330 East 38th Street, The Corinthian is distinctive and occupies an entire block. Built on the former Eastern Airlines site and completed in 1988, it has a distinctive shape of bundled cylinders and offers city and river views. The Corinthian contains 865 units on 54 residential floors that feature hardwood floors and such architectural details as large columns and curved walls. French doors open on to rooms that can be used as libraries or dens. 50 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | MARCH 2022
Corinthian 330 East 38th Street
Manhattan Place 630 First Ave
Kitchens have granite countertops, and units are equipped with walk-in closets, spacious galleries, washers and dryers, and many windows. All apartments (except for studios) feature a balcony: some larger residences have more than one. Many apartments have been updated to include state-of-the-art appliances. The Corinthian is a full-service, pet-friendly building with 24hour doorman and concierge, health club with a 56-foot lap pool and yoga studio, sauna, and steam room, landscaped outdoor space with running track, playroom, event room, golf simulator, valet, and garage. Info: The Corinthian at corinthiannyc.com The Horizon The 44-story Horizon has 381 residences and is located at 415 East 37th Street. The building, which was built in 1987, has been updated to include state-of-the-art appliances and finishes. The layouts are flowing with spacious foyers, living rooms, dining areas, and large bedrooms. Residences have functional closet space, including walk-in closets, as well as hardwood floors, marble bathrooms, granite countertops, and dressing rooms. The Horizon has amenities such as a full-time doorman and concierge, a fully equipped business center, a rooftop lounge, a party room, a children’s playroom, and an attended garage. Its two health clubs occupy the entire fourth and top floors and are equipped with an enclosed rooftop pool, steam and sauna rooms, Jacuzzi and state-of-the-art fitness equipment. Info: The Horizon at horizonyc.com
DINING OUT
Let’s look at some favorite restaurants in the area that are musts. Villa Berulia This is a fantastic restaurant. With a CroatianItalian menu, how could you go wrong? Located off the busy intersection of Park Avenue and 34th Street, the restaurant has hosted the likes of Hillary Clinton and legends, including Derek Jeter. Some menu favorites include Breast of Chicken sautéed with white wine and Buzra, a traditional Dalmatian seafood. Info: villaberulia.com
The Horizon located 415 East 37th Street
Kajitsu Another favorite is the minimalist Japanese restaurant, Kajitsu. Shojin cuisine refers to a type of vegetarian cooking that originates in Zen Buddhism. Even though it does not use meat or fish, Shojin is regarded as the foundation of all Japanese cuisine, especially kaiseki, the Japanese version of haute cuisine. In its present form, kaiseki is a multi-course meal in which fresh, seasonal ingredients are prepared in ways that enhance the flavor of each component, with the finished dishes beautifully arranged on plates. All these characteristics come from shojin cuisine, which is still prepared in Buddhist temples throughout Japan. Info: kajitsunyc.com
MARCH 2022 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 51
Hudson River Hideaway in Upper Nyack”
”Hudson River Hideaway in Upper Nyack” WOW - What Views! This extraordinary Contemporary situated on 1.29 acres in prestigious Upper Nyack is designed to take full advantage of the majestic Hudson River and includes 70 feet of beachfront and views from all windows! This home features 4 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, large eat-inkitchen, formal dining room, sunken living room, family room with wet bar, hardwood floors, enclosed porch, 3 multi-level decks and stone walls surrounding the property. There is also a large 3-car detached garage – perfect to shelter vintage cars or come and add an artist’s touch to create a spacious studio/workshop. The views are forever - the opportunity is not! Offered at $1,350,000. 615 N Broadway, Upper Nyack NY 10960
914-953-0494 • Lydecker Realty • fmancione@aol.com
REAL ESTATE & YOUR HOME
ROOMS WITH A VIEW By AP Connolly
ew York City has never lacked for sights to see. The Empire State Building, the Brooklyn Bridge, the Statue of Liberty are just some iconic landmarks waiting to be explored. But what if you could take them in without every stepping outside? Here are some luxurious homes offering owners an eyeful. Contact Brown Harris Stevens for more information at bhsusa.com 404 PARK AVENUE SOUTH Neighborhood: Madison Square Park Residence #11C Welcome to the Huys, a historic loft building transformed by famed Dutch designer Piet Boon into an exquisite collection of 58 luxury homes.
Residence 11C is a meticulously laid out split 2 bedroom/2.5 bath in the heart of NoMad. The home features 11.5-foot. ceilings and floor-to-ceiling windows with southern and eastern exposures. This apartment yields unbelievable light and views! The sprawling living room allows for endless entertaining and living space with spectacular southern and Park Avenue views with a charming Juliet balcony. This contemporary chef ’s kitchen features an open layout with Chambolle countertops, Bulthaup Alpine white cabinetry, Miele appliances, a wine cooler, and a well-designed breakfast banquette.
The south-facing master bedroom is fitted with an oversized walk-in closet with custom shelving and an ensuite five-fixture bath with double sinks, a large soaking tub, and radiant heated flooring. The second bedroom features an eastern exposure and a beautiful ensuite bath. Thoughtfully designed features include 8-inch-wide oak flooring throughout, signature millwork, builtin window seating, and skillfully designed doors and frames. This smart home is truly turn-key with electronically controlled solar shades, concealed window shade pockets, zoned heating and air conditioning system, a washer/dryer, and recessed lighting by Flos. In addition, two storage units transfer with purchase! The Huys is a white glove full-service building with a private fitness center, media lounge, children’s playroom, and a landscaped private roof terrace with kitchen and dining areas. Asking price: $3.95 million; contact Chris Poore MARCH 2022 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 53
172 MADISON AVENUE
Neighborhood: Empire State Building Residence #18B Designed by architect Karl Fischer with interior design by renowned designer Shamir Shah, the thoughtful layout of the 2-bedroom/2.5-bath home begins in the large foyer, which has a double closet. The entrance opens onto the grandly-scaled living/dining room. Next, the richly appointed kitchen features Statuary Quartzite slab countertops, Ann Sacks Savoy Chalk Mosaics backsplash, Molteni Dada integrated high gloss lacquer cabinetry, integrated Miele appliances, a vented hood, and a wine refrigerator. Also, an in-unit Bosch washer/dryer, and a gorgeous powder room, outfitted with an eye-catching, chiseled limestone accent wall, a Portoro marble countertop, limestone flooring, and a Dornbracht “Lulu” faucet. The true brilliance of this home’s floorplan is the split-bedroom layout, which maximizes privacy and comfort. The secondary bedroom/office overlooks Madison Avenue to the East and features a walk-in closet and bath with Wallace Creek marble flooring; an Absolute Black granite countertop with Dornbracht “IMO” faucet; and a ceiling-mounted rain showerhead.
The primary bedroom is an oasis of tranquility. Facing east, the quiet and generously proportioned space has four closets and a luxurious ensuite bath, appointed with the highest quality fixtures and finishes: Bianco Neve marble walls with an Ann Sacks glass mosaic tile accent; Taurus Black marble slab countertop and tub surround, Dornbracht “Lulu” faucets and fixtures; basket-weave, marble mosaic floors; and a Zuma deep-soaking tub. All rooms feature floor-to-ceiling windows, 8-inch-wide dark oak plank flooring, 8-foot interior doors, central air, and heat via a two-pipe HVAC system. Also highlighted are the motorized window shades and any Smart home customization you wish to install. Every aspect of 172 Madison’s luxury residences was designed with gracious living in mind. With a maximum of only three homes per floor, residents are afforded a true sense of intimacy while enjoying the benefits of a full-service, amenity-rich building. For example, the health and wellness floor include refined spaces for both recreation and relaxation. This robust amenity program ensures the most sophisticated lifestyle for owners: A 67-foot saltwater swimming pool with double height ceiling, 20-foot waterfall, fitness center with state-of-the-art equipment by Gym Source, yoga/ballet studio, and men’s and women’s locker rooms with steam rooms. Additional building amenities include a 24-hour attended lobby, a resident manager, a private club room with billiards and wet bar, a sun-lit lounge with an adjacent outdoor plaza, children’s playroom, pet spa, bike storage, and individual storage (available for purchase). Asking price: $2.45 million; contact Scott Harris 54 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | MARCH 2022
Paradise is calling and awaiting your arrival…
Relax in Luxury
It’s time to discover your own personal paradise. As one of Bermuda’s premier luxury resorts, Newstead Belmont Hills offers top-notch amenities and great value, coupled with unique service that will make you want to come back year after year.
Ownership
At the Newstead Belmont Hills Golf Resort & Spa, we are pleased to offer you a rare real estate ownership opportunity. Learn how you can purchase a piece of paradise with a waterfront home in Bermuda.
Newstead Belmont Hills • newsteadbelmonthills.com • concierge@belmonthills.com
56 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | NOVEMBER 2021
REAL ESTATE & YOUR HOME
THE TURKS & CAICOS INVESTING FOR THE FUTURE By Grace Lappin
otivated by YOLO (You Only Live Once) mentality and WFH (Working From Home) opportunities, investors are looking to the Turks and Caicos Islands to fulfill both personal lifestyle investment needs and a quest for quality development sites. The Turks and Caicos Islands or TCI for short, are a British Overseas Territory consisting of the larger Caicos Islands and smaller Turks Islands, two groups of tropical islands in the Lucayan Archipelago, part of the larger Antilles island grouping. The resident population is about 31,500, of whom 23,769 live on Providenciales in the Caicos Islands. To be sure, the Turks and Caicos Islands checks all the boxes when it comes to investing internationally, short direct flights, U.S. dollar transactions, English speaking, a safe low-crime environment, stable pro-development government, free-hold title ownership, strong land registry system protected by the British Crown and its gorgeous and uncrowded beaches. These days, the opportunity to purchase 2 acres with 255 feet of the world-famous Grace Bay Beach is as rare as a unicorn.
Two acres, 255 feet of Grace Bay Beach frontage, Providenciales, USD $12,500,000 For the lifestyle investor looking for a No Fuss-No Muss beachfront resort property, this elegant 3 bedroom/3 bath oceanfront unit at The Somerset Resort fits the bill.
The Somerset Resort, Grace Bay Beach, Corner Unit 301, USD $2,495,000 56 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | MARCH 2022
Developers with a grand vision will be attracted to the magnificent 50-acre Cooper Jack Marina.
Cooper Jack Marina, Providenciales, USD $31,900,000 Forward thinking investors will want to venture to East Bay, South Caicos and secure 5-acre Tucker Point with its over 1100 feet of ocean-frontage and private cove.
Tucker Point, East Bay, South Caicos, USD $1,350,000 Regardless the motivation, the Turks and Caicos Islands offer extraordinary investment opportunities.
AVALON REAL ESTATE ADVISORY Grace Lappin is a native New Yorker whose love for the Turks and Caicos Islands began 20 years ago. Her professional background in real estate is extensive and expansive. She understands the “natural bridge” existing between North America and the Caribbean and possesses invaluable expertise in both geographic areas. While Providenciales has become home for Grace, she maintains a lucrative partnership in Avalon Real Estate Advisory, a Manhattan-based real estate firm. Prior to forming Avalon Partners in NYC, she had served as an Associate Broker with The Trump Corporation, Vice President NY, and Caribbean Specialist with Halstead Property, LLC, and as Director of International Properties with ATCO Residential. Her expertise further includes the luxury real estate market and project development. Grace was Tropical Destinations Expert for The Language of Luxury and has earned certifications in Construction Project Management, Green Build, and Commercial Real Estate. Avalon Real Estate Advisory is a luxury real estate brokerage with offices in NYC and TCI. Contact us at (888) 638-1119 or via email at info@avalonrealestateadvisory.com. Our website is www.avalonrealestateadvisory.com
MARCH 2022 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 57
HEALTH & WELLNESS
SPINNNG WHEELS CYCLE YOUR WAY TO FITNESS
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By Bailey Beckett
he pandemic made fitness a uniquely new experience. Gyms suddenly closed and online classes proliferated across platforms, including stationary bikes. It was that phenomenon that connected America through screens across the country, making equipment like Peloton stars overnight.
Wendy Wolfson, Danielle Devine-Baum, Kara Bocchi
Now, two years in and several variants behind, New Yorkers are once again coming outdoors, and three New York women know exactly where to bring them: sweatconnected, a new boutique studio opening on the Upper West Side. Nestled discreetly inside the Marlene Meyerson JCC Manhattan on Amsterdam Avenue, the cycling gym is the brainchild of Wendy Wolfson, Danielle Devine-Baum, and Kara Deych Bocchi, veteran fitness instructors who wanted to create a new experience based on community and empowerment.
PART OF A COMMUNITY
“Our classes aren’t just a workout; they are a place you come to feel like you’re truly part of a group. We support each other,” says Wolfson. She continued to explain “sweatconnected means community through fitness. Through all the ups and downs of life. We sweat through it together.” Echoes Devine-Baum: “Our mission is to help you feel your best. We believe in the power of group fitness to be transformative, not only physically but mentally. We believe that group fitness can bring people together, even if we are apart.” Bocchi sums it up perfectly by saying, “Whether you have been a group fitness participant for years, or are brand new to group fitness, you will be at home with us and our growing community. All levels, all ages, all sizes, all humans.”
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DIGITAL, TOO
All three women will instruct classes while also handling their brand. Wolfson will serve as direct of talent, while Devine-Baum focuses on business development and Bocchi as director of operations. The cycling studio continues their popular online sessions, but the Upper West Side is about bringing people together again under one, brick and mortar roof. “Fitness clients are looking for a stronger in-person community and connection that existed pre-pandemic,” said Bocchi. “At the same time, they have created wellbuilt and sustainable routines with virtual fitness with their favorite instructors that they’d like to hold onto and incorporate as a part of their wellness and health.”
Danielle Devine-Baum, Kara Bocchi and Wendy Wolfson
With 29 bikes, sweatconnected offers its clients a staff of trainers who make the setting an affirmative experience. When the pandemic first hit, the women quickly pivoted online and found a digital fitness experience needn’t be impersonal. The spirit that had been the hallmark of their brand could easily translate, and still give their clients a communal experience even when they were alone. “Being in the boutique fitness world for so long, we knew we had to keep the love and camaraderie going,” Wolfson said. “We took our craft to Zoom and from the very first class, we knew this was a place for not only our clients to find happiness, but our instructors as well. Now with the world opening, we want to hold on to that community and bring it back to where it all began—inperson classes.”
Danielle Devine-Baum and Wendy Wolfson
FRIENDS FIRST
Today’s fitness client is looking for fun, effective, smart, and convenient workouts with instructors and a community they trust and love.
At the heart of their brand is the friendship Wolfson, Devine-Baum, and Bocchi have created after years in fitness. The three women met while working a cycling studio that closed during the pandemic. In 2020, they created sweatconnected, using same shared vision and values that had brought them together. “We come to this with over 30 years collectively in the fitness industry and have seen the value of the relationship between instructors and their students,” said Wolfson. “Fitness is for everyone. So many boutique fitness studios are about exclusivity. We are about being welcoming, no matter where you are in your fitness journey.” In conclusion, Devine-Baum tells us, “Today’s fitness client is looking for fun, effective, smart, and convenient workouts with instructors and a community they trust and love. We have built sweatconnected on all those principles.” For more information on sweatconnected, visit sweatconnected.com MARCH 2022 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 59
FOOD & DRINK
HOWM COCINA & COCKTAILS A TOP PICK FOR MESOAMERICAN FARE
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By Anne Raso
here’s so much to love about the Mesoamerican cuisine at HOWM Cocina & Cocktails in Chelsea, nestled at the forefront of the trendy Selina Hotel. It’s not a type of fare commonly found, even in a world-class restaurant town like New York City.
HOWM (pronounced “home”) almost takes up the entire lobby of the Selina, and its décor mimics that of the nearby galleries yet has a quaint, comfortable charm at the same time. Immediately upon entry, you are captured by the colorful Latin-inspired print banquettes, lofty ceilings, and an eclectic mix of art on the walls. HOWM has become a go-to spot for gallery hoppers and passersby thanks to authentic grub, genuinely unique cocktails, and where guests are free to linger for as long as they wish. HOWM has a friendly hardworking staff who are super-welcoming, and where the kitchen will customize dishes to your taste. A special bonus is that they feature a wide selection of small plates that are not small at all—the portions are some of the most generous that I have ever encountered at a downtown fine dining establishment and are ideal for sharing. The small plates replace traditional appetizers on the HOWM menu and are an absolute bargain. We tried several selections, including the Peruvian Ceviche made with local fluke and sweet potato and Yuca Fries twice cooked with homemade Chipotle Mayo. We were amazed at the freshness and authenticity (all produce is farm to table, and meat, fish, and poultry items are locally sourced). Executive Chef Byron Penafiel (formerly of BLT Prime, Rotisserie Georgette, and Buddakan) personally oversees the purchasing of all kitchen provisions and has a natural gift for Mesoamerican cooking since he is originally from Ecuador
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FINGER-LICKIN’ GOOD Entrees are incredibly tasty with the much-heralded Churrasco, a 20-ounce grass-fed bone-in Ribeye with Chimichurri sauce, Charred Green Onion & Japaleno. This is a divinely marbled cut of beef roasted to perfection that any carnivore diner would love. Still, it’s HOWM’s Chicken A La Brasa (aka Peruvian Chicken) that gets the most attention out of all the large plate offerings. This coveted dish is a whole chicken with Guava sauce glaze, roasted to the perfect golden brown and then served with roasted Confit Tomatoes and Aji Verde. Also available is family-style service, where you get to pick a set amount of small and large plates off the menu at a “per person” price. MENU MUST-HAVES We met owner Jonathan Knudsen to find out more about the most popular on the HOWM menu. He told us that in addition to the aforementioned that “the Chaulafan, a Latin American version of Paella is extremely popular that is combined with Salsa Verde, Chili Oil and several types of hot peppers. Another popular dish is The Charred Octopus served with jalapeno hummus and braised hominy. These dishes bring a sensibility to the table through traditional flavor profiles yet elevated using modern techniques and recipes.” DECADENT DESSERTS Top off your culinary experience with some of the most unusual desserts. Take warm Churros Bites most familiar to American palates served served with hot chocolate sauce in a mini coffee cup. We strongly suggest trying the Pan Dulce, a delightful warm bread pudding, with White Chocolate. Then there’s creamy La Concha, which is Salted Caramel Ice Cream with Whipped Cream and Shaved Chocolate, and the vibrant Pumpkin Panna Cotta. Several flavors of homemade Gelato are also available.
CONNECTING WITH CUSTOMERS What have been Knudsen’s proudest moments of planning and running the 120-seat HOWM is bringing people back together by sharing and exploring food. “The typical crowd is a beautifully eclectic mix of young professionals lured mostly from Hudson Yards. Chelsea has a wonderfully loyal residential footprint, and therefore we see a strong following of neighborhood regulars. “The neighborhood is fantastic and having the opportunity to participate in Chelsea’s food and drink scene has been great. What I love the most, though, is connecting with our customers, stopping by tables, introducing myself, chatting up the dining room, extending complimentary items, and just the overall interaction with people and watching the excitement that takes place after that first bite of food or sip of a beverage.” For more info on HOWM, go to howm.co MARCH 2022 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 61
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
ON STAGE
MJ THE MUSICAL SHINES By Robert Massimi
MJ The Musical at the Neil Simon Theatre is not only the great music that Michael Jackson wrote and performed, but it also goes deeper than that in many ways. Lynn Nottage (Clyde’s, Intimate Apparel), who wrote the book for the show, brings forth how the man was a perfectionist: how he saw the notes segue into music and tell his musicians just how to improve upon the melodies being played. And like Prince and James Brown, Jackson was very demanding of his musicians and backup dancers. Yet, he was never forceful nor dismissive. Growing up with eight siblings in Gary, Indiana, his father, Joe (played by Quentin Earl Darrington, who also doubled as Jackson’s stage manager), was a tough man. The senior Jackson made his sons practice, leaving very little personal time for each of the then Jackson Five. But, as Nottage points out, Michael, a compassionate boy, would carry many of these memories well into adulthood.
DEALING WITH THE WORLD
THE MANY FACES OF MJ
The show starts with the Dangerous Tour in 1992, and when MTV chooses to do a documentary on Jackson. Not sure how this will play out, MTV sends Rachel (Whitney Bashor) to interview the star. Jackson is standoffish as he does not trust the media. Rumors at this point are swirling on so many levels, some are true, and others are false, yet Jackson never comments either way.
Tavon Olds-Sample plays the teen Michael, and Christian Wilson plays the young Michael. Under both the direction and choreography of Christopher Wheeldon, all three are superb in their roles. With 37 songs throughout the show, Wheeldon directs the three actors masterfully and the high-energy backup singers and dancers. MJ is a first-rate, non-stop whirlwind of great songs and insightful storytelling of Michael Jackson, his family, and the very secretive performer for the two and a half hours.
We see painkillers Jackson devours due to being burned to do a Pepsi commercial and never fully recovering from that accident. As the musical alternates from when he was a child to his teens and then his later years, the audience puts together pieces of the puzzle about how Michael Jackson became the way he did. Jackson was a kind soul who continually wanted to grow and do so away from his family. Being a dutiful son, he reluctantly did a concert with his brothers rather than capitalize on his Thriller album. Even knowing that Don King promoting the tour would hurt both him and his family financially, he still did it—in excruciating pain.
In MJ, we get to meet three Michaels. The oldest is the excellent Myles Frost. Frost has Jackson’s moves, voice, and cadence down pat. When he sings, his movements and energy are first-rate; conversely, he is subdued when not performing. Here, too, Lynn Nottage deftly brings out the soft side of Jackson.
In MJ The Musical, the audience is treated to most of his and The Jackson Five’s best songs: songs like “Beat It,” “Billie Jean,” “I’ll Be There,” “Rock with You,” “Smooth Criminal” and “Thriller” all brought the house down. Derek McClane’s scenic design, Natasha Katz’s lighting, and Paul Tazewell’s costumes were all right on the mark. The most prominent of McClane’s set was to “Smooth Criminal.” It gave a seedy feel to the song and yet had a jazzy feel to it at the same time. Tazewell gave the audience one great Jackson costume after another. Not to be upstaged, Katz gave us the proper in-the-moment lighting throughout the show. For more information and tickets to MJ the Musical, visit mjthemusical.com 62 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | MARCH 2022
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
SPRING HAS SPRUNG
SING ALONG WITH BROADWAYHD’S FAVORITE MUSICALS By Sara Weisenfeld
ime to put a spring in your step with a few of our favorite musicals! If you’ve made your way through BroadwayHD’s incredible selection of dramatic classics, look at what it offers in the line of the greatest musicals. BroadwayHD is available on your computer or any of your favorite devices such as Roku, AppleTV, Chromecast & Amazon Firestick. When you head to BroadwayHD.com, you can sign up for a 7-day free trial. Now, let’s check out some of our BroadwayHD favorites! RODGER & HAMMERSTEIN’S CINDERELLA
Lesley Ann Warren plays the title role in this television production of the classic Richard Rodgers and Oscar Hammerstein III musical. Young Cinderella longs to go to the royal ball and dance with the Prince—but it will take a magical miracle to make it happen.
HOLIDAY INN
Jim leaves the bright lights of show business behind to settle down on his farmhouse in Connecticut, but life isn’t the same without a bit of song and dance. Jim’s luck takes a spectacular turn when he meets Linda, a spirited schoolteacher with talent to spare. Together they turn the farmhouse into a fabulous inn with dazzling performances to celebrate each holiday, from Thanksgiving to Easter.
AN AMERICAN IN PARIS
This breathtakingly beautiful Tony Award-winning Broadway musical, inspired by the Oscar winning MGM film, tells the vibrant story of discovering love in the City of Light. Featuring the gorgeous music and lyrics of George and Ira Gershwin (including the classic hits “’S Wonderful” and “I Got Rhythm”), stunning designs, and show-stopping choreography.
FOREVER PLAID
You’ll enjoy this affectionate musical homage to the close-harmony guy groups that reached the height of their popularity during the 1950s. This quartet of high-school chums, and their earnest dreams of recording an album, ended (symbolically, and even literally). Sadly, it ends in death when their cherry red ’54 Mercury collided with a bus filled with Catholic schoolgirls on their way to see the Beatles’ U.S. debut on The Ed Sullivan Show. The girls were fine. MARCH 2022 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 63
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
ON THE BIG SCREEN By Jenny Peters
TURNING ON THE ACTION AFTER YANG PG This 2021 Cannes Film Festival favorite stars Colin Farrell and Jodie Turner-Smith in a futuristic story of a family’s helplessness when their A.I. servant goes kablooey. How do they figure out how to live their daily lives without constant help? Director-writer Kogonada delves into what the world may be like when humans are controlled by machines in this telling drama.
THE BATMAN PG-13 Expect Batman to be even darker and more tortured as Robert Pattinson dons the mantle of the Dark Knight in this reboot of the storied film franchise. He’s supported by Zoe Kravitz as Catwoman and Paul Dano as The Riddler and a cast of familiar faces including Jeffrey Wright, John Turturro, Peter Sarsgaard, and Colin Farrell.
EVERYTHING EVERYWHERE ALL AT ONCE R Action and comedy combine in this femalecentric science-fiction romp that features Michelle Yeoh as a woman who can’t seem to finish her taxes, as wild experiences keep her from her simple plan. Jamie Lee Curtis, Jenny Slate, Stephanie Hsu, and Harry Shum Jr. all join in the mayhem.
THE LOST CITY Not yet rated Jungle adventures await a romance novelist whose books don’t really reflect her life; that is, until she is kidnapped. If this sounds a bit like Romancing the Stone, that’s because it is, similar but not quite the same. Sandra Bullock is the writer, Channing Tatum is her book’s cover model, Brad Pitt shows up and romance and action combine for some fun.
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THRILLS AND CHILLS ASH AND DUST Not yet rated Two couples discover a box filled with unknown value, which triggers a ruthless gang’s interest in their next steps, in this catand-mouse thriller. Adrian Langley wrote and directed this creepy Canadian offering that stars Anne-Carolyne Binette, Nick Biskupek, Blake Canning, Simon Phillips and Kayla Meyer.
GOLD R Zac Efron leads the cast in this desert saga that centers around a huge golden nugget and the drifters who discover it. Think Treasure of the Sierra Madre set in a bleak landscape and you’re on the right track, as the key players struggle to keep the gold for themselves. Shot in the Australian outback and co-starring Susie Porter, this is a down and dirty adventure.
OPERATION FORTUNE: RUSE DE GUERRE Not yet rated Guy Ritchie is at the helm (he also co-wrote the story) for this comedic spy story that centers on a suave secret agent (Jason Statham) and his crack team of operatives (Cary Elwes, Aubrey Plaza, Bugzy Malone) who join up with a Hollywood star (Josh Hartnett) to save the world. Think James Bond with laughs and you’re on the track of this one
X R If horror films are your favorite genre, then X will be right up your alley. Mia Goth, Brittany Snow and Jenna Ortega are Texas gals who head to a remote location to shoot a porn film, only to find there’s much more lurking in the Texas countryside. Ti West wrote and directed this thriller designed to make you never want to leave the big city again.
MARCH 2022 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 65
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
ON THE SMALL SCREEN By Jenny Peters
TRUE TALES THE DROPOUT Hulu Amanda Seyfried stars in this story of Silicon Valley Elizabeth Holmes’ rise—and fall—from fame as the wunderkind of Theranos, a medical tech company. It’s a saga of hubris, arrogance and basic greed, proving that men are not the only business CEOs who can be criminals, too. This seven-episode miniseries also stars Sam Waterston, Anne Archer, and William H. Macy. JOE VS. CAROLE Peacock This wigged-out series stars Kate McKinnon and John Cameron Mitchell as the pair who helped make Tiger King a must-watch Netflix phenom. Now it’s a parody “fictional” series created by McKinnon that gives the original a run for its money. Watch for Kyle MacLachlan and William Fitchner in key supporting roles.
THE THING ABOUT PAM NBC You will not recognize Renee Zellweger in the title role, playing Pam Hupp, a real-life Missouri insurance administrator who conspired to kill not only her good friend, but to frame her friend’s husband for the crime. Her twisted story continues in this wild tale of murder and mayhem in the heartland. It certainly proves that all the bad people in America are not living on the coasts! WECRASHED Apple TV+ This weird biopic of Rebekah and Adam Neumann, the founders of WeWork, attempts to explain how a pair of narcissistic lovers somehow formed a company that (at one point) was valued at billions of dollars. Jared Leto and Anne Hathaway play the dysfunctional couple that lived an outrageous lifestyle while driving their business into the ground in this slightly twisted series.
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WINNING TIME: THE RISE OF THE LAKERS DYNASTY HBO This look back at the legendary 1980s Los Angeles Lakers NBA basketball team is a slightly fictionalized account of the times that included Magic and Kareem. The stellar cast may make you look twice, as John C. Reilly plays Lakers owner Jerry Buss, with Adrien Brody, Jason Clarke, Gaby Hoffmann, Sally Field and Jason Segal joining in for the nostalgic fun.
SPECTACULAR SCI-FI STORIES THE ADAM PROJECT Netflix Another star-studded Netflix movie starring Ryan Reynolds is upon us, in this mixed-up saga of Adam, a man who travels through time only to meet himself as a young boy. Things get strange from there in this comedy sci-fi adventure that also features Jennifer Garner, Zoe Saldana, Mark Ruffalo and our favorite quirky actress, Catherine Keener.
HALO Paramount+ This long-anticipated series is based on the video game of the same name that was released 20 years ago. This show has taken awhile, but now Pablo Schreiber takes on the leading role of Master Chef, in a story that happens in the 26th century. He’s given support by Bokeem Woodbine and Natascha McElhone in a story that follows aliens out to wipe out human existence.
MOON KNIGHT Disney+ Oscar Isaac stars in this mysterious series based on the Marvel comic of the same name. He’s a gentle man who works in a gift shop, who one day discovers he has an alternate identity, that of mercenary Marc Spector. Set in and around the Egyptian pyramids, this eerie superhero tale also features Ethan Hawke and Gaspard Ulliel.
MARCH 2022 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 67
AD Goes Here
PET SPOTLIGHT
PAWS DOWN…TAILS UP MARCH MERCH MADNESS By Melanie Carden
arch in the Northeast can be a bit of a mish-mash—a little winter weather with the occasional glimpse of spring. Your pets still need a hat and coat and some toys to keep cabin fever at bay. However, it’s also time for the basketball frenzy of March Madness, so grab some snacks and settle in with your four-legged friend for game time.
INVEST IN A NEST
The Hepper Pod Bed is roomy enough for one or two cuddlekitties. The modern design offers your feline king or queen a cozy fleece lining for superior snuggles. Info: hepper.com
PURR-FECTLY PLAYFUL
We’re all longing for spring, and Mr. Whiskers is no exception. Grab one of Frisco’s interactive Butterfly Cat Tracks for an endless butterfly-inspired frolic. Info: chewy.com
T
PASS THE PUPPER-RONI
PASS THE PUPCORN, PLEASE
YEAR-ROUND PICNIC
GET A GRIP
Maybe it’s extra cheesy, but a dog chomping a plush pizza is always entertaining. P.L.A.Y.’s Snack Attack Collection includes stuffed pizza, chips, and more. Info: petplay.com
Typical March conundrum—you’re eager for a picnic with the pup, but it’s still too cold. These customizable, insulated handbagstyle lunchboxes from Modern Picnic help turn any outing into a moveable feast! Info: modernpicnic.com
Watching our favorite sporting events without snacks? No way! Make sure your pup is all in on the party vibes with P.L.A.Y.’s Poppin’ Pupcorn plush. Info: petplay.com
March Madness is here! Nylabone’s basketball is a slam dunk with its contoured, easy-to-carry shape. Remind Fido he’s your cuteness tournament MVP! Info: petco.com MARCH 2022 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 69
BOREDOM BUSTER
Let’s face it. The last bit of winter can be tough, and snacks help. Keep a bag of Acana’s 5-ingredient high protein biscuits on hand and spend some quality indoor time practicing your favorite tricks. Info: acana.com
COZY CANOPY
Most humans don’t have such a dreamy bedroom, but isn’t your sweet cuddle-bug worth the luxury? The Sweet Dream Sleeping Set from Funny Fuzzy features a canopy— perfect for a snow-day snooze. Info: funnyfuzzy.com
LAP UP THE LUXE Cat-tastic in every way, the Catit PIXI Stainless Steel Fountain is hygienic, quiet, and dishwasher safe. It boasts the cutest little lightup kitty nose to alert you when water is low. Info: usa.catit.com
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CHEER GEAR IS HERE
Keep track of the tournament brackets, and let your best buddy take the lead on the cheer squad. Hunker down for some quality hoops time in style. Info: petco.com
BOX OF BELLY RUBS
Perfect for gifting or busying your own best buddy, the Dalvey & Co. curated Belly Rubs box is a top-notch bundle. It’s stuffed full of toys, a cute leather tag, and trendy bandana. Info: dalveyandco.com
MUD PUPPIES The folks at Walton Wood Farm understand the stink-tosparkle ratio for pets should heavily lean toward sparkle! Their Pets Don’t Stink line of products work magic after muddy March walks. Info: waltonwoodfarm.com
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iscover the best kept secret in Saint Lucia and immerse yourself in true Caribbean luxury. East Winds is a breath taking tropical garden by the sea, set on a sandy, secluded storybook beach. Our Caribbean hideaway is the island’s original boutique resort, featuring 30 cottage style suites and an ocean front beach house, tucked away amongst
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NEW YORK, NY
ENTREPRENEUR’S CORNER
DR. RAMON TALLAJ: FOUNDER OF SOMOS COMMUNITY CARE By Bennett Marcus
At the beginning of the COVID-19 crisis in New York, Dr. Ramon Tallaj was at work with New York’s vulnerable Hispanic community—a group that he affectionately refers to as “his people.” “We raised the alarm at the beginning,” says Dr. Tallaj, an immigrant from the Dominican Republic who founded SOMOS Community Care—a non-profit, physician-led network of over 3,000 health care providers serving over one million Medicaid beneficiaries in New York City. They are almost exclusively from vulnerable Hispanic, Asian, and African American populations. “Because our doctors are part of these communities because we are immigrants and speak the languages of our patients, we could listen to our community and see this coming. It meant that we were able to prepare.” Launched in 2015 by its Chairman, Dr. Ramon Tallaj, SOMOS Is the largest system participating in the New Yorkk State Delivery System Reform Incentive Payment Program (DSRIP). Recently, New York City Mayor Eric Adams chose Dr. Tallaj for his administration’s COVID-19 Recovery Roundtable and Health Equity Task Force to advise long-term, comprehensive policies around health equity and health access. Dr. Tallaj will serve as co-chairman alongside forty leaders from a wide variety of sectors, recognizing that to be effective, the task force must include a wide range of voices whose sectors, taken together, are instrumental in a speedy, effective recovery. The task force will also build a healthier, stronger, and more equitable city for all New Yorkers. THE EARLY YEARS Growing up as the oldest of six children in a mixed Lebanese and Dominican family in Santiago De Los Caballeros, he faced hardship. He studied by candlelight at his university in Santo Domingo, which was frequently without electricity. He was inspired to attend medical school by his uncle, a pediatrician arrested and tortured under the Trujillo dictatorship. Nevertheless, he quickly became a prominent figure in his country. He became the Under Secretary of Public Health and Social Service, a member of the Dominican-Haitian Frontier Affairs Commission, and then the Medical Director of the Social Security and Welfare Institute. His work put him in close contact with politicians and foreign officials. When Cardinal John O’Connor, representing the Archdiocese of New York, asked him to serve in New York, he immediately accepted—turning down a position as the Dominican Republic’s Minister of Health. Little did he know that he would advise the likes of President Barack Obama, Pope Francis, and city leaders on healthcare reform a few decades later. THINKING OF THE YOUNG Dr. Tallaj is enthusiastic about many causes. One that is dear to his heart and heritage is the Dr. Ramon Tallaj Foundation, which awards grants, scholarships to exceptional Hispanic students and develops studies in the United States in medicine, nursing, pharmacy, and other healthcare-related sciences worldwide.
Pope Francis meets with Dr. Ramon Tallaj
“It was a dream for me to come to New York,” says Dr. Tallaj, who now enjoys painting and international horse racing and breeding. “It is the American dream, and I want others to have that opportunity. SOMOS is value-based,” Dr. Tallaj explains. “That means primary care providers are not paid a fee based on service but according to the longer-term health outcomes for patients. But, again, prevention is the key.” The network has been a top performer in the shared-savings program for several years, which he attributes to its focus on preventive care, physician-led operations, and technology to monitor patients’ overall health and the course of their treatment. In 2020, SOMOS’s ACO score was 97 percent, more than any ACO in New York City, generating nearly $38 million in total savings and more than $18.3 million in earned savings. “We have done something unique in New York City,” he says. “We establish genuine relationships with our patients and get to know their family circumstances, social lives, and the environmental factors that impact the health of the patient and their families.” BEYOND COVID Dr. Tallaj recently joined Pope Francis and a scientific committee of researchers, medical experts, scientists, theologians, and bioethicists, in Vatican City to collect and make available fact-checked, unbiased information on the COVID vaccine for Catholic media in multiple languages. The Catholic fact-checking project is one of the many projects to receive funding from the Google News Initiative’s “open fund” for projects promoting information about the pandemic and vaccines. “We are serving the poor,” Tallaj says. “We are feeding the hungry. We are caring for and curing the sick. It gives me such peace in my heart to know that at the right moment, we have done the right thing for the right people for the right reason.” For more information on SOMAS Community Care, visit somascommunitycare.org
MARCH 2022 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 73
NEW YORK, NY
MY NEW YORK STORY SHAUN MELADY: PICTURE PERFECT By Bailey Beckett
odels turned actors and actors moonlighting as models are as old as Hollywood. But a media guy turned both? That’s a rare feat, but it’s the topline of Shaun Melady’s story. Though he grew up dreaming about being on screen, Melady pursued a career in communications, eventually becoming a top marketing and PR strategist for brands as varied as Jaguar and NASCAR. He also grew adept at social media, helping companies enhance their images across platforms like Instagram and Tik Tok. And then he realized he could be in front of the camera.
A SHINING STAR
“When I was working in PR, I saw there was a casting call for a Fashion Week show, and I knew I had to do this,” Melady said. He connected with a prominent modeling manager, Ryan Colby, and thus began his new career. I know I was extremely fortunate and blessed. But unfortunately, it doesn’t happen to everybody,” he says. You don’t go to a casting call, work, and meet a manager, so I knew it was meant to be from there.”
High-profile gigs like being the Michelob Ultra guy (his chiseled jawline getting credit in numerous Anheuser Busch ads) helped him graduate from walking shows (Elie Balleh Couture, Kuéne, Kevin Shahroozi Designs, Cindy Tran Fashion, Status Plus Fashions) to starring in them. He was recently cast on the second season of the smash-hit web series The Grams, a dramedy that brings a comedic twist to oh-so-series topics like loneliness and depression. Melady portrays Ned Winkle, a handsome quirk-bro who collects vacuum cleaners. He has also starred in short films as varied as The Disturbance Call and Abysmo, and web shows from Atlantic Records like Labeled Series and Anya Marina: Indie-pendent Woman. He’s also appeared in TV and films, including Abbie Stonehenge and Murder Under The Friday Night Lights. Like most models who segue into acting, he began the pivot on stage in the Off-Broadway plays: The Persians, The Killers, and Disconnected.
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STREET SMARTS
Although the native-born Floridian did not train at Julliard or other prominent performance art schools, Melady has found his classes. Where else but New York City. He loves peoplewatching and observing the physical idiosyncrasies that make characters. Facial tics. Body language. Eye movement. This is Melady’s curriculum. “I see the nuances in facial expressions when I watch movies or body movements, so I look at acting on screen like that or in general when I’m out and about in a bar or restaurant, and I see someone holding something a certain way,” he says. “I study distinctive characteristics to help create characters. I’m focused on making it as relatable as possible for each situation. It can be something as simple as a cup of joe. “If I am in a coffee shop with a friend or something in a scene, I take my cup of coffee and swirl it around like you would in real life and not be stiff,” he says. “You want to bring an element of each person in the scene so everyone can relate to the person or take a scene and make it quite different to make it uncomfortable to portray awkwardness. I think it’s important because the end goal of each character on screen comes from personality and human traits. So why not bring humanity into this for my particular style?”
Though he’s steadily climbing up the acting ladder, Melady hasn’t given up modeling. In addition to Anheuser, he continues to be the face of several other campaigns, including Tricots St. Raphael, Kane 11, BABE Rosé, and even the US Navy. “You know how when you have those dreams when you’re growing up, and you’re like, ‘that would be so cool, that would be awesome?” Melady says. “Acting, singing, and modeling, that’s what it was for me.” MARCH 2022 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 75
NEW YORK, NY
TIME OUT WITH…
JOAO DE MATOS, OWNER OF CHURRASCARIA PLATAFORMA By Harry Brads
hurrascaria Plataforma is an authentic Brazilian restaurant serving delectable grilled meats. Originated in the early 1800s in Southern Brazil, this Rodizio-style serves a wide variety of meats tableside. There is no traditional menu as it consists of an all-you-can-eat with ongoing service. Incredibly delicious steaks, sausage, pork loin, lamb, and chicken are just some of the choices, along with plenty of sides. In addition, the lively bar offers wines by the glass, cocktails, and their signature Caipirinha. New York Lifestyles sat down with owner Joao de Matos to discuss his start in the hospitality business, the difficulties of running a restaurant during the pandemic, and why it has become so popular with visitors and locals alike. What made you get into the hospitality business? I was born and raised in São Paulo, Brazil, where my family owned a bakery, so I knew I was going to be involved somehow in the food business from a very early age. What made you open an authentic Brazilian Rodizio-style restaurant? Since moving to New York, I’ve been a huge advocate of my home country. So, forty years ago, I opened a travel agency which is today the number one agency in the United States in ticket sales to Brazil. Back in the days, the agency used to organize group trips to Brazil, and during one of the trips, I brought a group to a Churrascaria in Rio. Word got out, and every single group traveling to Rio wanted to try a Brazilian churrascaria. Then a light bulb went off in my head, and I decided to open the first Brazilian churrascaria in the U.S. Plataforma was the first of its kind. Do you have a favorite cut of meat? That’s a tough question because I love all the cuts we prepare at Plataforma. But it is the Picanha, which is grilled to perfection and carved to your desire, which is a favorite. Many Brazilians would say that Fraldinha has a better taste and flavor. My recommendation is to try them all. Every cut has its distinctive flavor and tenderness.
What were some of the difficulties of operating a restaurant during the pandemic? No one could have seen this coming, and most restaurants were unprepared. We faced challenges still. That shock of not knowing how to generate enough revenue to keep everyone on the payroll, the fear customers were having of indoor dining, policing our customers to make sure they would wear masks while not eating, and finding and retaining enough staff. But we were always optimistic that we would come out of this stronger and better than before. What makes Churrascaria Plataforma different from other similar restaurants? The concept of a Brazilian steakhouse is to start a meal with an all-you-can-eat salad bar; however, at Plataforma, we like to call it a Gourmet Salad Bar. We are not trying to reinvent the wheel here, but our uniqueness makes us special. Quality is our top priority, so we constantly make sure we serve the freshest items and special recipes. As a result, we give our customers the option to feel immersed in a different dining experience. And we’ve been doing that successfully for 26 years. For more information on Churrascaria Plataforma, visit plataformaonline.com
76 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | MARCH 2022
340 Noank Road, Mystic CT Nearly new beautifully constructed custom designed home works equally well as your primary residence, vacation home, or rental/ AirBNB property, Overlooking the Mystic River, it is an easy walk to various marinas and into town to a wide variety of shops and restaurants , Sift Bakery , Mystic Market Gourmet Foods, Mystic Art Museum and Mystic Seaport Museum. Maintenance free exterior includes Hardie Board siding Azek trim, IPE decking, storm rated windows, two covered porches for maximum outdoor entertaining, all overlooking the professionally landscaped perennial gardens with pathways and stonewalls. The interior features spacious light and bright rooms, hardwood floors , economical geothermal heating and cooling , whole house generator, extra wide stairways, and central vacuum. Three floors all finished and an additional lower level family room. Four spacious bedrooms each with beautifully outfitted full baths. Central island kitchen features granite counters, five burner gas cooktop and two sinks. Two car garage. This is an extraordinary opportunty. $1,399,000
RANDALL REALTORS Melinda Carlisle, Phone: (860) 460-8002, Email: mysticmelinda@aol .com
• Gated community with 24-hour security
• Complimentary wireless internet access
• Adjacent to The Marina at Emerald Bay
• Three great dining venues with new menus
• Access to Emerald Bay golf course, a Greg Norman signature course
• Secluded beaches, find your spot
• Full service spa
• Shark tagging experiences
• 71 Luxury villas with full kitchens
• Swimming with the pigs