Vol. 5 #4 | May 2019
SOPHIA ANNE CARUSO
r Of Beetlejuicea Crushing It On Broadway
STYLE The Heat Is On
CELEBRATE MOM Gifts • Brunch • Travel
NEW YORK, NY Check Your Social Calendar
HEALTH We Are What We Eat
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Contents
17
FEATURES 14 17 44 50 52
From The Publisher Cover Feature: Sophia Anne Caruso Through The Lens With Annie Watt Bits & Bailey: The Who, What & Wow Of The Jet-Set Scene Tech Talk: Spring To The Future
STYLE 22 Guinot: The Knowing Glow Gains Buzz In Spas & Salons 24 Life’s A Beach: The Heat Is On In Fashion & Beauty 26 Life & Style: It’s All About Mother’s Day
24
TRAVEL 28 30 32 34 36 39 42
National Harbor: An All-American Waterfront Destination Yorktown & Jamestown: America’s Indelible Footprint Sanibel & Captiva Islands: The Charms Of Florida’s West Coast Georgia On Your Mind The Raleigh Beer Trail: A Destination Worth The Hops The Pleasure Of Your Company: See India & Attend A Wedding Too Mother-Daughter Getaways: Make Her Feel Special
28
REAL ESTATE & HOME DECOR 54 56 59 62 65 68
Around Town: Harlem Nine On The Hudson: A Waterfront Oasis 313 West 4th Street: Indoor/Outdoor Living In The West Village EXP Realty: Soaring To New Heights Spotlight: DXA Studio The Original “Hord”ers: This Team Will Transform Your Life
8 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | MAY 2019
59
72
76
Contents HEALTH & WELLNESS 70 A Dose Of Reality 72 Bright Eyes: Restore, Rejuvenate And Look 10 Years Younger 74 We Are What We Eat: How To Achieve Overall Health
FOOD & DRINK 76 Il Divo Restaurant: Authentic Italian Flavors On The UES 78 Mother’s Day Brunch 80 Wild For Wilde: NoMad Goes Mad For This Restaurant/Bar
82
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT 82 84 86 88 90
On Stage Broadway: Behind The Scenes—Be More Chill’s Stephanie Hsu On The Big Screen On The Small Screen Borbay: From Comedy To Canvas In One Stroke
90
NEW YORK, NY 93 96 98 100 103
Paws Down, Tails Up Entrepreneur’s Corner: Laurice Rahme Of Bond No. 9 My New York Story: Peter Darrow Spring Social Calendar Time Out With…Sarah Rose, Author
10 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | MAY 2019
96
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OUR CONTRIBUTORS GRIFFIN MILLER Griffin’s work has appeared in The New York Times, Corporate & Incentive Travel, City Guide New York, Promenade, Hotels, For the Bride and others. Her articles for New York MetroParents earned her multiple Parenting Media Association Editorial Gold Awards. She is a member of the New York Travel Writers Association, on the board of the Lewis Carroll Society of North America, and an award-winning collage artist. Also an actress and playwright, Griffin lives in Forest Hills, New York with her husband, Richard Sandomir of The New York Times, and their cats, Reggie and Cosmo. 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 editor-in-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. JEFF & STEPHANIE SYLVA Travel enthusiasts Jeff & Stephanie have been freelance travel writers for over 30 years. Much of their writing reflects their love of the outdoors and their active lifestyles. Some of their favorite travel experiences include a hike on the Solheimajokull Glacier in Iceland, a trek across the Kilauea Iki Crater on the Big Island of Hawaii, and snorkeling with penguins and white-tipped reef sharks in the Galapagos Islands. The New Jersey couple have written regularly for several local newspapers in addition to Gallagher’s Travels, Hospitality 21, JustSayGo, Family Travel Network, Family Travel Forum, Travellady, The Parent Paper, Bergen County: The Magazine, Bergen County Kids Magazine, and Family Destinations. Jeff and Stephanie enjoy tennis, hiking, biking, swimming, skiing, snowshoeing, and of course, traveling.
ISSN 2474-770X
Vol. 5 #4 | May 2019 President / Publisher BILL MASON Editor-in-Chief Patricia Canole
Art Director Eric Duncan
Entertainment Jenny Peters, Lori Zelenko
Style Gerrie Summers
Features Ruth J. Katz
Special Projects Norah Bradford
Lifestyle Griffin Miller
Chief Photographer Annie Watt
Contributing Writers Shana Ackerman, Maxine Albert, Natasha Bazika Bailey Beckett, Borbay, AP Connolly, Lee Gabay, Elizabeth Darwen Peter Elston, Dr. Daryl Gioffre, Jenna Guarneri, TJ Johnson Dr. Peter Kalellis, Robb Lanham,Lenora Marshall, Kelley Mason Tina & TJ Mulqueen, Jeremy Murphy, Ellis Nassour, Anne Raso Mike & Nava Raviv, Will Reed, Jeff & Stephanie Sylva Laurie Bain Wilson, Stacey Zable Executive Vice President of Sales LYLE SELTZER Sales Bill Mason Sr. - Director of New Business Development Brett Caldwell - Director of Integrated Sales and Marketing John Miller - Director of Sales - Travel Michael Stulmaker - Director of Sales - Real Estate Director of Operations Kurt Nesheim
Advertising BLUE VISTA 725
Internet Presence Scott Cuollo, Richard Austin
Magazine Distribution The Garrido Group
New York Sales Office (646) 259-2651
Editorial/Sales Fax (212) 202-4888
For subscriptions, address changes or back issues, call: (646) 259-2651 newyorklifestylesmagazine.com Facebook: /NYLifestylesMag Twitter: @NYLifestylesMag Instagram: @NYLifestylesMag All rights reserved. Reproduction of any material from this issue is expressly forbidden without permission of the publisher. Printed in the USA. New York Lifestyles Magazine is published 10 times annually. ©2019 New York Lifestyles Magazine
Cover Photo Credit: 12 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | MAY 2019
Sophie Elgort
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FROM THE PUBLISHER
The sports world has surely captured our interest over the last couple of months. We watched over two weeks of “March Madness” where 64 NCAA college basketball teams competed for the national championship. The tournament featured numerous outstanding performances and three point baskets with Virginia being crowned champions after a hard fought overtime victory over Texas Tech. We got to watch Tiger Woods “roar” on the way to his fifth Master’s title in Augusta. Locally, in hockey the NY Islanders have marched into the playoffs heading for the coveted Stanley Cup. In basketball, congratulations to our Brooklyn Nets who have played terrific basketball to reach the NBA playoffs. (By the way, superstar LeBron James’ Lakers did not make the playoffs, and our other hometown team (NY Knicks) had the worst record in the league).
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This is just the start to the 2019 sports schedule. One local event to put on your calendar will be held May 16th-19th at Bethpage State Park in Farmingdale, LI, as top golfers will compete at the Bethpage Black Course in the PGA Golf Championship. Come and see if Tiger can capture his next major title bringing him one step closer to Jack Nicklaus’ record and keep Tiger-mania roaring loud. Another favorite sporting event of mine is the Triple Crown of horse racing. The kick off comes on May 4th with the Kentucky Derby at Churchill Downs. Be sure to have your racing form in one hand and a mint julep in the other when the horses come down the stretch for an electrifying finish. The second jewel of the Triple Crown is The Preakness in Baltimore where history, heritage, and tradition run deep. My favorite is the third and final leg of horse racing’s most coveted and elusive crown—New York’s Belmont Stakes at our very own Belmont Park. The race tops a three-day festival that kicks off summer with a unique blend of entertainment and premium hospitality offerings. This racetrack is seasonal and easily accessable by the Long Island Railroad for all to get to. Speaking of sports gets me thinking about how I have recently spent many late afternoons watching some of the most super-charged action on the diamond. Let me tell you it hasn’t been in the Bronx or Flushing. It’s been at an ICYP Softball Field on 20th Avenue in Astoria, Queens. This is the home field of Saint Vincent Ferrer Falcons Girls Varsity Softball Team. They are one outstanding, athletic, competitive and fun group of girls you would ever want to meet. So my hats off to Coach Brian and Coach Bobby for the extraordinary work they are doing. Good luck in the playoffs and Go Falcons! To all my furry four-legged friends and their owners, save the dates June 1st-2nd, for the World Dog Expo at the Meadowlands Exposition Center in Secaucus, NJ. It’s a definite must-go event, if you like dock diving, disc throwing, obstacle courses, or even weight pulling. Or perhaps you want to get a look-see on some of the newest and best products available for your canine companion. Our sister publication Pet Lifestyles Magazine is a huge supporter of this weekend and loves working with the show to promote dog rescue, adoption, and fostering. So make sure to come out and please don’t forget to bring your dog with you. I want to take a moment to share a thought with all of you. No matter how different everyone may be, we all have one thing in common: our mothers. So this May 12th be sure to share the day with mom, whether it’s giving her a bouquet, going out to brunch or calling her to say how much she has meant in your life. For those mothers who are not with us, know that our timeless maternal love will always be there. Happy Mother’s Day to all the moms of the world. 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.
-Bill Mason
Publisher
14 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | MAY 2019
Vol. 4 #5 | June/July 2018
ETHAN SLATER ON LIFE, ACTING &
SPONGEBOB SQUAREPANTS
JERSEY SHORE SPECIAL Wild About The Wildwoods
FATHER’S DAY Pamper Dad On His Day
TRAVEL Great Getaways Near & Far
SUMMER IN THE CITY What To See & Do
Visit us at: newyorklifestylesmagazine.com For subscription or back issues, call:
(646) 259-2651
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FEATURES
SOPHIA ANNE CARUSO BROADWAY’S NEW INGÉNUE By Griffin Miller
ike Lydia Deetz, her character in the new Broadway musical Beetlejuice, Sophia Anne Caruso is “serious and unusual”—so much so, she’s been tackling macabre droll roles since she was ten and cast as a stage-struck sociopath in the musical send-up, Ruthless! With only a few detours—like playing Birgitta Von Trapp in NBC’s the Sound of Music Live—she’s serenely embraced her Penny Dreadful side. It’s a commitment that has paid off well for the 17 year old. The youngest of three children—“My sister and brother are older and on their own”—Sophia moved east with her parents from Spokane, Washington seven years ago once it became clear her performing career was taking off. “I started doing shows regionally when I was six or seven. My mom, who has a business [jewelry and clothing stores], would sometimes drop me off at the theater,” she said, adding that her first professional role came when she was nine: playing Helen Keller in a production of The Miracle Worker, directed by Patty Duke. A year later she moved into TV and was cast as Young Norma Jean in Smash, performing alongside Bernadette Peters.
©Sophie Elgort
MAY 2019 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 17
Her mature— make that beyond mature—choices seemingly impact all phases of her creative process, from the way she delivers her lines to the searing gaze she unleashes in Beetlejuice…
©Sophie Elgort
18 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | MAY 2019
ARTISTIC & MIND-BENDING
When asked about her favorite acting projects from around this time, Caruso homed in on one of her darkest roles to date: MCC’s 2015 production of Jennifer Haley’s The Nether—a bizarre detective story played out in a sinister Victorian-esque virtual reality realm where heinous things happen to young girls—a setup that fascinated rather than repelled the young actress. In what was her Off-Broadway debut, the role earned Caruso her first Lucille Lortel Award nomination, the second coming a year later when she worked alongside Michael C. Hall in the David Bowie/ Enda Walsh musical Lazarus. Both of these works play into her passion for “informing artistic mind-bending pieces.” Clearly, edgy is Caruso’s comfort zone, reflected in many aspects of her life, including her fashion sensibility (platform boots and such), and literary sensibilities. An avid reader, she recently finished You Know You Want This, a collection of short stories by Kristen Roupenian, that’s been described as “perverse” and “utterly bananas”. Her favorite playwright? Sarah Kane, a master of the disturbing and controversial (Cleansed; Blasted), while Maggie Nelson’s poetry (Something Bright, Then Holes) matches Caruso’s aesthetic. Talking to Caruso, it’s easy to understand why the writings of these three women and others fall in line with her choices as an actress. “I’m attracted to strong, authentic females… not stupid stereotypes.” No surprise that her theatrical wish list includes George Bernard Shaw’s Saint Joan and Sarah Ruhl’s Euridice. Her mature—make that beyond mature—choices seemingly impact all phases of her creative process,from the way she delivers her lines to the searing gaze she unleashes on certain characters in Beetlejuice—and, one suspects, real life.
©AnnieWatt.com
AN OFF-THE-CUFF Q&A Knowing that you’re constantly working, what’s the story on your education? I actually graduated two summers ago after taking online classes. Do you have time for any relationships outside of the theater? Some…it’s cool to learn more about yourself through others. But right now my work is my true love. I know you play the guitar. Do you compose as well? I do. I write in pretty much every style. I also play a little bass and piano. Do you have any pets? I have a dog, a Shih Tzu. His name is Pucci. I love him so much! He’s an old boy at 13 and he sleeps all day. Might you be related to the opera icon Enrico Caruso? Not that I know of, but my dad always plays his music. Performance wise, who would you say inspires you? So many people! What we do takes a lot of courage and I respect every kind of performer because I know how much it demands. Seeing others succeed inspires me. What are your thoughts about social media? I don’t really look for myself or read about myself. I do think we live in a world where young people are exposed to a lot on the Internet. And some things especially can be disturbing for young women when it comes to self-esteem—the romance of a non-realistic ideal of beauty. I avoid any images of ‘perfect’ supermodels that can set me off and make me think I’m not good enough. I take days—even a week off, because negative things and thoughts can eat up your life. I try to be gentle on myself.
MAY 2019 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 19
Clearly, edgy is Caruso’s comfort zone, reflected in many aspects of her life, including her fashion sensibility…
©AnnieWatt.com
20 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | MAY 2019
A STYLE ALL HER OWN
Based on the 1988 Tim Burton film, the musical Beetlejuice has been reconfigured for Broadway, not just through the addition of songs and dance numbers, but concept-wise as well, including the role originated onscreen by Winona Ryder. “I always felt close to Lydia,” said Caruso, who recalls feeling a bit of an outsider herself growing up. “I always wanted to see more of her story in the movie, and now it’s actually happening within our show! In our Beetlejuice Lydia’s story is expanded and you get to know her much deeper than in the film.” A Goth gamin, with an unwavering sense of what she wants, Caruso’s Lydia is in perpetual mourning for her deceased mother and is willing to try pretty much anything to reconnect with her, including hanging out with the title character—a deceased nutcase/conman played with crazed brio by Alex Brightman (School of Rock). “He’s my monster,” said Caruso. “He’s a comic genius and he can make me cackle even on an off day. He’s a cool older brother.”
As Brigitta Von Trapp in NBC’s The Sound of Music
Beetlejuice Broadway Sophia Anne Caruso, Rob McClure & Kerry Butler ©Matthew Murphy Sophia Anne Caruso and Michael C. Hall in Lazarus
Caruso’s praise doesn’t stop with Brightman, though. She refers to her fellow performers as “a stacked cast” and to being a longtime fan of actress Leslie Kritzer, whose madcap Delia is far more upbeat than that of Catherine O”Hara’s in the film. She calls Eddie Perfect, who wrote the score, “awesome,” and describes director Alex Timbers as “brilliant, sensitive, open and honest… He’s very visual and he has grand visions,” she continues. “He’s one of the best on Broadway.” So far—and I’m talking the early days of the show’s run— Caruso has been able to measure the enthusiasm for the show through reactions of theatregoers who feel an affinity with both Lydia and Sophia. “I’m very happy to say that we are getting wildly wonderful feedback! At the stage door every night I hear young girls and boys telling me how much seeing a real teenager means to them, how they love the show’s message.” They also tell her and how they feel— that through Caruso’s portrayal of a kid who wears her outsider status as a badge of honor, they feel seen and understood. And maybe Caruso—on occasion—shares her personal precept with some of them: “So long as you cause no harm do what makes you feel best!” • MAY 2019 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 21
STYLE
THE KNOWING GLOW
GUINOT GAINS BUZZ WITH SPAS AND SALONS By Bailey Beckett
t is one of the most revered companies in beauty: Guinot Institut Paris founded more than 50 years ago by French chemist René Guinot. Since then, the skincare brand has become a global phenomenon with spas, salons, and skincare professionals around the world. Its research and development is legendary: chemists in its Parisian laboratory toil for years perfecting the most state-of-the-art formulas and serums. Even Guinot’s famous Longue Vie Cellulaire anti-aging cream found its roots in a hospital burn unit to stimulate the renewal and longevity of the skin. Now available at select spas and salon locations throughout the U.S., Guinot continues to create the most inventive and effective skin care products. New York Lifestyles gets the scoop on the favorite weapon of dermatologists, aestheticians and skin care practitioners on the front lines of beauty from its exclusive U.S. importer and distributor for over 35 years, Joel Lachman, Lachman Imports Inc. What does Guinot do best? We specialize in skincare, body care, and sun care, and the variety of Guinot products ensures that every skin type gets the best, individualized treatment. From cleansers to moisturizers to masks—nothing is one-size-fits-all. The time and resources we put into studying and perfecting our products are second-to-none. Research and development are at the heart of Guinot. Every formula has to pass a very high threshold before we bring to market. What does your range encompass? We have three core product categories: Guinot’s body care line includes gentle shower gels, deeply moisturizing creams and firming treatments. Our sun care products consist of sunscreen, self-tanners, and after-sun lotions to enhance the appearance of the skin and minimize the damaging effects of the sun. And Guinot’s one-of-a-kind treatments feature Hydradermie Double Ionization, Hydradermie Lift, Hydradermie Eye Lift, Aromatic Face & Body, Hydra Clean, Eye Logic, Hydra Peeling, and Age Summum. What are the newest, most exciting products? We are always researching and developing, and we have three terrific new launches. Guinot’s Anti-Dark Spot Serum is a two-week treatment that reduces and minimizes dark spots caused by sun exposure and aging. It rejuvenates the skin and restores a more youthful look using vitamin C along with a range of 56 active ingredients. Melanoxyl and Phytic Acid are used to help reduce melanin production, which minimizes and prevents the appearance of dark spots. When combined with pure vitamin C, the serum helps eliminate dead and pigmented skin to help improve the skin’s appearance after just two weeks. We’re also very excited about Lift Summum, which is designed to firm and smooth the delicate skin of the face, neck, and chest— often the first areas to show signs of aging. It offers instant and long-term results, removing dead skin while helping refine the faces contour and restoring radiance in just 50 minutes. 22 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | MAY 2019
Finally, Guinot’s Clean Logic Range is a cleansing skincare collection formulated with anti-aging properties suited for fragile skin. The first step is the Cleansing Care Cream, which gently and thoroughly cleanses and removes makeup with a creamy texture that moisturizes the skin. The Revitalizing Care Lotion then reinvigorates the skin’s surface with a gentle exfoliating effect, preparing the skin for any products to follow in a skincare regimen. Guinot is also known for its “ethical beauty care” philosophy. Tell us more. Absolutely! This is important to Guinot. Our products are not tested on animals, for one. Also, our formulas don’t use parabens, and our ingredients are from non-GMO plants. They are also sourced from renewable plants. Guinot is conscious of the environment’s fragility, and we are devoted to doing our part in protecting it. Where can someone find Guinot? We are available in select salons, spas, and resorts across the country that have both our skin care products and our professional services. Info: guinotusa.com. •
STYLE
LIFE’S A BEACH
THE HEAT IS ON IN FASHION & BEAUTY By Gerrie Summers
t’s time to hit the beach and the barbecues! But we all know what that can mean—burns! So while you’re out there catching the rays, be sure you’re protected. I’ve got great must-haves for outdoor fun and sun protection and to keep you safe and in style. Plus, some even make great Mother’s Day gifts. COOLA SUNCARE PINROSE Classic Face Organic Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50 This Organic Sunscreen Lotion is a sheer, silky daytime lotion with SPF, that can be used under makeup. It also contains plantbased ingredients with antioxidants to fight free radical damage, like algae and red raspberry seed oil, which the company says allows them to use less of the traditional and potentially irritating sunscreen ingredients. It has broad spectrum protection and is water resistant for up to 80 minutes. The lotion comes in Fragrance Free or White Tea. Info: coolasuncare.com.
FIGLEAVES Maryan Mehlhorn Night Garden Swimsuit Figleaves was founded in 1998 as an online store selling lingerie made to fit women in all their glorious shapes and sizes. The company now offers a diverse range of sizes, silhouettes and price points from big name designers, to niche and specialist collections. Several of the swimsuit designs help flatter the figure like the floral print Maryan Mehlhorn Night Garden Swimsuit with shirring across the bust and tummy, that gives it a form-fitting effect, a mid-scoop back for support, plus straps that are adjustable for a customized fit. Figleaves is also a member of Ethical Trade Initiative and insures that garments are manufactured in safe working conditions, that workers are treated fairly and get a fair wage wherever they are in the world. Info: figleaves.com. 24 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | MAY 2019
Intention Scenting Gift If you’re looking for a unique Mother’s Day gift, consider Pinrose’s Intention Scenting Gift, especially wonderful for her to add much needed self-care to a beauty routine. The Kit contains nine .10 oz. eau de parfum rollerball scents, a deck of Intention cards, a rose quartz crystal and a step-by-step guide to “Intention Scenting”—pairing an intention (mindful commitment to oneself, such as Gratitude, Optimism, and Strength) with a scent. Each fragrance is based on the mood and feeling each scent evokes. The rose quartz crystal helps you open your heart chakra and promote unconditional love—which moms give so freely and should give to themselves! Info: pinrose.com.
SEASTAR SPARKLE SPF 50+ Mermaid Glitter Sunscreen This sunscreen will have you sparkling like the turquoise sea. The Mermaid Glitter Sunscreen is fun and effective. The sunscreen has iridescent turquoise glitter, but don’t worry, it’s reef safe with biodegradable glitter and a coco-lime fragrance, and provides 80 minutes of water resistant and broad spectrum UVA/UVB protection—safe enough to use on your kids and to bring out the kid in you! Info: sunshineglitter.com.
BOHO BEACH
TENTH STREET HATS
FRÉ SKINCARE
Mineral Shimmer Sunscreen for Lips/Mineral Shimmer Sunscreen SPF 30+ Don’t forget your lips! Lips are one of the most forgotten parts of the body when it comes to using sun protection — and have the thinnest and most vulnerable skin. Try Boho Beach Mineral Shimmer Sunscreen for Lips, for a hint of shimmer and a lot of protection. Then slather on the Mineral Shimmer Sunscreen SPF 30+. It has light refracting shimmer that makes imperfections less visible while nourishing and revitalizing the skin with anti-aging ingredients like vitamins E and C, antioxidants like green tea extract and skin calming chamomile and calendula. Boho Beach has a light, greaseless formula and is also eco-friendly and reef safe, while still protecting the skin from UVA/UVB rays and providing 80 minutes of water resistance. Info: sunshineglitter.com.
Nantucket It’s a must for travel! A stylish, braided raffia straw beach hat designed by Scala Collezione, is crushable, without losing its shape, making it a must for globetrotters. It’s also wide-brimmed (4 1/4” brim) for sun protection, with a Cool Max (moisture wicking) elasticized sweatband. I love the assorted beach charms of shells, pearls and starfish—so cute and perfect for any pool or beach setting. Info: tenthstreethats.com.
DETOX ME Post-Sweat Clearing Mask You want to look great in your new swimwear. Your intense workouts are helping you sweat off the pounds, but the sweat itself is causing you to breakout. DETOX ME Post-Sweat Clearing Mask is formulated with kaolin clay to purify the skin, unclog pores and prevent breakouts, plus yarrow to reduce skin inflammation and irritation, dead sea salt to exfoliate and rejuvenate skin. It gently removes dead skin cells and buildup of everyday pollutants. Info: freskincare.com.
SMARTY PITS
VITA/LIBERATA Body Blur HD Skin Finish The unique Body Blur is an instant self-tanning lotion and skin finishing body makeup featuring light reflecting particles that gives the body a natural looking tint; it also softens the appearance of veins, small scars, and minimizes blemishes for an IG-ready finish. It can be used on the face and body, with its safe certified organic ingredients and natural extracts with antiaging properties. Available in several shades, it can be applied by hand, or with the reusable Tanning Mitt for a streak-free, flawless tan and to protect palms from staining. Info: vitaliberata.com.
Aluminum-Free Deodorant With sun and fun outdoor activities comes sweat. Unfortunately, many antiperspirants have potentially harmful ingredients. SmartyPits was created by founder Stacia Guzzo after her mother discovered she had breast cancer. During her research on breast cancer and risk factors, Guzzo learned that many antiperspirants/deodorants contain aluminum, which has been linked to breast cancer and Alzheimer’s. So she created SmartyPits on a little stovetop in 2014, making it aluminum-, paraben-, phthalate- and propylene glycol-free. The deodorant comes in Standard Formula (with baking soda) and Sensitive Skin (baking soda-free) and in a variety of scents. Info: smartypits.com.
PRADA Disguise Sunglasses With beach days and tropical vacations here, you’ll obviously need the perfect pair of sunglasses to top off all your warm-weather ensembles (not to mention, protect your eyes). Think oversized frames, vintage shapes, a spicy mix of colors. Or perhaps these classic Disguise Sunglasses from Prada to rock the spring/summer months. The Italian-crafted accessory features a geometric-style tortoiseshell frame with UVA/ UVB solar protection that will take you through the many sunny days ahead in style. Info: farfetch.com. •
MAY 2019 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 25
STYLE
LIFE & STYLE
IT’S ALL ABOUT MOTHER’S DAY By Griffin Miller
very year we’re presented with an opportunity to celebrate our mothers and all the other amazing women who have loved and influenced us. Thanks to“life, the universe, and everything,” however, when it comes to gifts, we often find ourselves stuck in a ho-hum holding pattern or last-minute grab and go. But that was the past. To make sure Mother’s Day 2019 is remembered in all the right ways, here are a handful of unique gift options that will hopefully result in many Mom Smiles. FOR MOTHERS WHO BRUNCH FROM HERE TO INFINITY Bit of a conundrum, Mother’s Day: it’s always on a Sunday and, even if you booked weeks ago, experience dictates the brunchtastic restaurant of choice will be brimming with other moms and their extended families. So instead of reservations, why not show up at Mom’s brunch in hand: bagels and all the trimmings, fresh-cut fruit, OJ and Champagne, and Carthage.Co’s elegant Brunch Set (to gift, of course!): Pitcher and four deep-dish salad plates (microwave and dishwasher safe). During a pre-Mother’s Day test drive, they were deemed both beautiful and functional. Multi-colors to choose from and the pitcher doubles as flower vase centerpiece. Info:carthage. co/collections/sets/products/ brunch-set.
If yoga is part of your mom’s lifestyle, it’s time she experienced the colorful artistry of Yoga Design Lab’s Infinity Mats, Towels, and Combo Mats. Designs bearing intoxicating names like “Optical Gold,” “Mandala Night,” and “Tribeca Sand” redefine how the body aligns itself. The thick mats cushion joints, knees, and spine (especially wonderful if you have physical issues or, like me, are just getting reacquainted with poses through classes). The mats are made of biodegradable natural tree rubber, while the mattowel hybrid virtually eliminates the need to tote both! Info: yogadesignlab.com.
WANDERLUST CHRONICLES If you’re giving Mom a trip this year—or if she already has one or more on her agenda—a nice addition to the world beyond is My Travel Journal—a slender, sturdy p ap e r b ack t ravel companion designed, not only to capture memories of her trip(s) to share with loved ones, but a practical accessory, as well. From metric conversions to international size charts, this compact diary features plenty of space for emergency contacts; prescriptions, airline, hotel, and passport info, as well and contact info for new acquaintances. With spots for budget notes, this comprehensive roadw ar r i or si d ek i ck fe atures i nv it i ng i l lust r at ions by ar t ist Kat i e Ve r non and an att ache d b o ok mark. Info:foxchapelpublishing.com. 26 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | MAY 2019
ADORED ADORNMENT In an episode of the 1960s sitcom, The Dick Van Dyke Show, comedy writer Rob Petrie bought his wife, Laura, a huge costume jewelry piece called the Empress Carlotta’s Necklace, when what she really wanted was a solitary stone on a simple gold chain. Eventually, Laura got what she wanted: a timeless necklace that can be worn every day. Boma Jewelry offers just such a piece, the Belle Pendant Necklace, certified 925 fine sterling and 14K gold vermeil with a cubic zirconia gem—and, like all Boma jewelry, it’s ethicallymade and handmade by artisans in Thailand. Info: bomajewelry.com.
TOO GORGEOUS TO EAT (ALMOST)
ZEN AND THE ART OF KICKING BACK
High-end chocolates are designed to be visually appealing—it’s the subliminal given that, aside from flavor, makes them so desirable. But as attractive as these delicacies may be, none blur the line between taste buds and artistic-eye so ingeniously as Mariebelle NY, where each variety of to-die-for Ganache Chocolate square boasts a distinct mini-painting— Mariebelle’s signature boxes. Fill with your mother’s favorite flavors or, whisk her to the flagship SoHo chocolate shop/ café to choose—and partake of the café menu’s myriad pleasures from luncheon and afternoon tea to sweets and chocolate beverages (hint: my newfound passion is Spicy Dark Hot Chocolate). Info: mariebelle.com.
The luxury of downtime is slipping away with every detour onto social media, missed workout session and postponed vacation. And forget about creativity, that lopsided dream is gathering dust in attics and storage lockers courtesy of unstrung guitars, atrophying potter’s wheels, unfinished novels, and Martha Stewart how-to books. Who knew there was a sweet innovation called Buddha Board, ready to tap into the calm within by freeing the imagination. With nothing more than a paintbrush, this knob-free descendant of Etch-a-Sketch provides Mom the wherewithal to paint away stress one image at a time. Nirvana sans mess. Info:buddhaboard.com.
FOOTLOOSE AND FANCY-FREE Quirky, practical and guaranteed to put just the right bounce in the wearer’s step, iGUANEYE is a radically comfortable concept shoe that recently arrived in the U.S. after dazzling footwear fanatics in Portugal for the last seven years. Living up to their hype for recreating the feeling of going shoeless, regardless of foot shape or challenges, these hypoallergenic flats feature excellent arch support via nine interchangeable insert colors. No matter how much walking is on the agenda—or how behind on pedicure appointments— Mom will love the way these edgy-looking shoes make her feel. Info: iguaneye.com.
LUXE ALL THE WAY
REAL WOMEN DRINK WINE
SHEER BLISS
Jewelry boxes—I know, dressing table standards. Basically functional; sometimes clunky; and even when stunning, they can, with time, turn into a disheartening bouillabaisse of rings, brooches, earrings, and tennis bracelets. Mom deserves better, and she can now get it (from you!), via Hammacher Schlemmer’s brilliant Multi Compartment Jewelry Box. It has it all: an almost magical three-level case featuring 25 swing-out pockets and any number of slots, ring rolls, earring bars, cubbies… you name it. Fashioned by a noted manufacturer of fine jewelry boxes this hand-finished red beauty with a gold snap lock comes tissue wrapped within a handsome black-on-black box. Adaptable for travel, but mine will never leave its post on my dresser! Info:hammacher.com.
Un c o n v e n t i o n a l a n d f e a r l e s s , journalist/explorer Nellie Bly was the embodiment of #MeToo a century before it found its way into today’s vernacular. It’s noteworthy, then, that emBRAZEN Wines has created a Cabernet Sauvignon bearing the image of this groundbreaking feminist, as well as a Chardonnay with Queen of Salsa Celia Cruz and a Red Blend with entertainer/activist Josephine Baker on its label. This trio of wines “inspired by the trailblazing women of the past” and dedicated “to a future where women revel in doing things on their own terms and in their own way” seems perfect to honor the iconic women in our lives on May 12th. Info: embrazen.com.
The lightest of beach cover-ups—or a little something unexpected to drape over a tee and jeans—Mer-Sea’s Martinique Kaftan reflects its wearer’s individuality without forcing style upon her. One size (in case Mom likes to write things like sizing off to “womanly discretion”), and a versatile 38 inches long, this gauzy fashion piece features a couple of front buttons to ensure it won’t float away should a breeze come along. As for presentation, it comes in a zippered metallic pouch, that can even double as a clutch for travelers packing light. Info: mersea.com. •
MAY 2019 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 27
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NATIONAL HARBOR
AN ALL-AMERICAN WATERFRONT DESTINATION By Jeff & Stephanie Sylva
ational Harbor is a 350-acre integrated community situated on the banks of the Potomac River just minutes from Washington, D.C. Boasting two AAA Four Diamond resorts among its 8 hotels, over 160 shops, 40 restaurants, and one of the largest gaming floors outside of Las Vegas, National Harbor welcomes more than 12 million visitors a year and is home to 2,000 residents. Located just south of the Woodrow Wilson Bridge in Oxon Hill, Maryland, National Harbor was developed as a planned community by the Peterson Companies led by Milt Peterson. Celebrating its 10th anniversary this year, the resort community continues to evolve in the concept imagined by the Peterson family with new and exciting additions seemingly every year.
WHAT TO SEE & DO There is always something going on in National Harbor, whether it’s a movie screening at the outdoor Waterfront Plaza, a concert from the Salute the Sunset Series, a spectacular fireworks display, one of the many scheduled festivals, or a ride on the 180-foot Capital Wheel or the Carousel. Nightlife buzzes at exciting venues on Fleet Street like Bobby McKey’s Dueling Pianos Bar and Cadillac Ranch with its Bull Riding Arena. Be sure to dine in one of the more than 40 restaurants, many of which bring an interesting twist to American favorites. Consider Succotash which features a soulful Southern menu accented by James Beard Award nominee Edward Lee’s Korean roots.
National Harbor
The Capital Wheel
Not to be missed is the enjoyable sightseeing cruise with the Potomac Riverboat Co. Use their water taxi service to explore surrounding areas including Alexandria, Georgetown, Mount Vernon, the National Mall, a Nationals baseball game, or D.C.’s newest integrated waterfront community, District Wharf. Water buffs will delight in renting a kayak, stand-up paddle board, or peddle boat. Or if you prefer, rent two wheels from Capital Bikeshare and explore the Waterfront District which is prime with boutique shops. For some serious retail therapy, take the shuttle to National Harbor’s Tanger Outlet Center, which offers more than 80 brand stores. Be sure to stop at Shopper Services for a coupon book and consider joining the TangerClub for even more savings. National Harbor’s newest attraction due to open by this summer is Topgolf, a sports entertainment complex that features an inclusive, high-tech golf game that everyone can enjoy. Even beginners can get in on the fun with the variety of games offered. All the golfing fun is coupled with plenty of food and beverage options, music, and large-screen TV’s.
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STAY & DINE Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center A great choice to stay is the AAA Four Diamond rated resort with its signature 1.5-acre glass atrium that stands 19 stories high. Enjoy the peaceful stream that winds through the indoor garden and take in the evening fountain shows. Sunset views through the atrium and across the Potomac are spectacular especially from the Belvedere Lobby Bar or from your room’s balcony if you reserve an atrium room. After sunset, venture to the rooftop for some sips, sights, and sounds. With 18-foot, floor-to-ceiling windows, the rooftop lounge, Pose, offers dramatic views of National Harbor and beyond. Fine dining is front and center at the Old Hickory Steakhouse. The menu offers an outstanding selection of choices including premium, all-natural 1855 Black Angus beef and the “to-die-for” Wagyu beef. The restaurant also boasts a Maître d’Fromage, who offers tableside presentations on handcrafted artisanal cheeses kept in a unique cheese cave. An outdoor terrace offers dining with serene views. It won’t be hard to indulge at Gaylord’s Relache Spa. A diverse menu of services includes an Ashiatsu Oriental Massage where expert therapists use their feet for a deep compressive massage.
The Gaylord National Resort
MGM NATIONAL HARBOR Another option is also a AAA Four Diamond resort offering 308 rooms and suites in a sleek, contemporary décor—many with fabulous views of the Potomac and the D.C. skyline. The MGM also features a stunning central atrium space—the Conservatory—which presents five different dramatic display themes throughout the year. The 125,000 square-foot casino is one of the largest gaming floors outside of Las Vegas. Top-flight entertainment is on hand at the intimate 3,000-seat The Theater, featuring state-of-the-art sound, video, and lighting. Dining choices at MGM are stimulating and varied. One of their signature restaurants, Ginger, was our pick because of its extensive menu featuring authentic Asian cuisine. The Peking Duck was outstanding, as was the Ginger-Scallion Dungeness Crab. MGM was not looking to just bring Las Vegas to D.C. but rather to be a part of the community, much of the resort’s design is meant to reflect the local area. In particular, MGM is proud of its Heritage Art program which features a number of local, as well as international, artists’ creations throughout the hotel. The collection of high-quality art, sculpture and photography is seamlessly integrated into the resort’s public spaces. The MGM National Harbor also features The Spa & Salon which stresses a program of well-being inspired by “water, nature, science, and the sea.” Be sure to book The Ginger Eucalyptus Energizer which begins with a blue eucalyptus inhalation session followed by a deep tissue massage with ginger root—the perfect rejuvenation.
The MGM National Harbor
Be sure to put National Harbor on your bucket list for this summer. You won’t be disappointed. For more information on National Harbor and its attractions, visit nationalharbor.com. • MAY 2019 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 29
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Historic Jamestowne ©Kathy Kirby
AMERICA’S INDELIBLE FOOTPRINT
THE LIVING HISTORY OF YORKTOWN & JAMESTOWN By Ruth J. Katz
here to swing that nine iron Historic Jamestowne in the Greater Williamsburg, Virginia, area? With five nearby golf courses to select from, three courses at The Golden Horseshoe Club (Green, Gold and Spotswood Executive) and two courses at the Kingsmill Resort (Plantation and River), it’ a tough choice. The smart money would choose the Kingsmill River Golf Course, as it is home to (at the 17th hole) the most historic 177 yards in golf. On the periphery of the hole’s tee box is the James River landing where the ships bearing America’s first settlers berthed in 1607 and where the intrepid English passengers alighted. It is a gloriously gorgeous fairway and its historic significance is emblematic of the lore, OUR NATION’S EARLY DAYS legend, and actual history that pervade The galleries feature innovative exhibits chronicling the Revolutionary era the entire region, known, fittingly, fromnew the twilight of Colonial times when unrest was reaching a crescendo (a tea as the Historic Triangle, comprising party in Boston, for example) to the signing of the Declaration of Independence, Williamsburg, Jamestown, and Yorktown. to the establishment of the new American Republic. The core exhibitions (among The intensely profuse history here is instantly apparent when visiting the new American Revolution Museum at Yorktown, a living-history museum that replaced the Yorktown Victory Center. After a thoughtfully designed $50 million transformation, this 80,000-square-foot educational center serves up the past on a multisensory platter. By way of an introduction, watch the film Liberty Fever, and then see the compelling movie The Siege of Yorktown, projected on a 180-degree surround sound screen, accompanied by dramatic effects: the aromas of gunpowder, coffee, salt water; wind and smoke; and seats that rumble and shimmy during battle scenes. 30 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | MAY 2019
them, The British Empire and America; The Changing Relationship) explore the ideas, events, and legacies of our nation’s turbulent incubation, with thousands of period artifacts, immersive environments, interactive exhibits, and films.
Also on site is an outdoor re-creation of a Revolutionary War Continental Army encampment. Expect soldiers to fire muskets, present military drills, and demonstrate 18th-century surgical and medical practices. Engaging and gifted historical interpreters, in period costume, bring it all to life vividly. Just beyond the camp is a Revolution-era farm, a scale version of the 200-acre property belonging to the family of Edward Moss (ca. 1757-1786), whose life is well documented in York County. The farm is home to meandering Muscovy ducks and hens, a separate kitchen (visitors can help prepare a meal), a tobacco barn, fruit orchards, gardens, and slave quarters, as there are records indicating Moss had six at the time of his death.
THE FIRST SETTLERS
Historic Jamestowne and Jamestown Settlement offer up additional history, giftwrapped in easy-to-digest format, so even distracted youngsters and blasé grown-ups will be mesmerized. Jamestown Settlement chronicles the lives of those first settlers, as they interacted with the local Powhatan Indians and the west-central African cultures that converged here. Jamestown Settlement has expansive gallery presentations and outdoor “exhibits” that includes the re-creation of a Powhatan village (based on archeological findings), with reed-covered houses, crops, and a ceremonial circle of carved wooden posts, and, of course, historical interpreters. There is also a riverfront pier where visitors can board replicas of the Susan Constant, Godspeed, and Discovery, the ships that sallied forth across the ocean (in what must have been a punishing four-and-one-halfmonth-long journey), to bring the colonists here. Lessons in navigation and seamanship (piloting and knot-tying, for example) are offered, as are tours of the cramped quarters. Historic Jamestowne, under the joint stewardship of the National Park Service and Preservation Virginia, brings to life the first permanent English Settlement in North America. The archaeological digs have unearthed the original James Fort, the 17thcentury church tower, and town footprint. There is also an engrossing archaeological museum, The Archaearium, which displays some 4,000 intriguing artifacts, which weave the story of the pioneers into a rich and dynamic tapestry, through arms and armor, tools, coins, trade goods, personal items, religious objects, and food remains.
Jamestown Settlement Powhatan Indian village making arrows ©Jamestown-Yorktown Foundation
Museum at Yorktown British Empire and America exhibit gallery ©Jamestown-Yorktown Foundation
WHERE TO STAY
The luxe choice is the Williamsburg Inn, which was recently renovated and has just over 60 charming, period-furnished rooms, a top-tier spa, a culinary center, tennis courts, walking trails, swimming pools, and the award-winning Rockefeller dining room. Built in 1937 by John D. Rockefeller, Jr., the Inn combines the historic elegance of its original design with the amenities of a contemporary, luxurious property. A more modest option is a condominium at Kingsmill Resort, opened in 1975, and located on a sprawling 3,000acre campus. It offers individual rooms, as well as one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments, with full kitchens and living rooms. All resort amenities are available, including four on-site restaurants, a fitness center, spa, and marina. Beyond these more modest and value-priced condo units, there are also the more modern, gracious Cottages on the James (five homes), with river views; additionally, the jewel in the crown is the dramatic Estate at Kingsmill, a 7,000-square-foot manse, that rents for upwards of $5,000 a night. Info: colonialwilliamsburghhotels.com; kingsmill.com.
The Fifes and Drums of York Town
For more information on Jamestown and Yorktown, visit historicjamestowne.org, historyisfun.org; visitwilliamsburg.com; virginia.org. © 2019 Ruth J. Katz All Rights Reserved. • MAY 2019 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 31
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Captiva Island
SANIBEL & CAPTIVA ISLANDS THE BUCOLIC CHARMS OF FLORIDA’S WEST COAST By Jenny Peters
ver feel like you just want to escape the madding crowd(s) of New York? Get the urge to just jump on a plane and find yourself so far from subway trains and sidewalks jammed with wallto-wall people? Then we’ve found the perfect place for you. Simply hop on a three-hour, nonstop flight to Fort Meyers (we keep seeing round-trip fares hovering around $200, well within almost anyone’s budget), and head to Sanibel and Captiva Islands. Those two little gems located on the Gulf of Mexico just south of Fort Myers (and north of Naples) are places where time has stood still—or it sure seems that way.
WHAT TO SEE & DO
Both of these barrier island—Sanibel comes first, Captiva is at the end of this skinny little chain connected by a small bridge—have a few pretty hotels, cool little shops, fun restaurants and a slew of protected areas and empty beaches. The J. N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge covers basically the whole eastern side of Sanibel, a refuge created by President Harry Truman in 1945. It is the place where migratory birds converge every year from January to March, including ospreys, raptors and spoonbills; alligators meander around the protected areas here too, without a care in the world. This is a place that bird watchers adore, as over 245 species of birds can be seen here, nesting. roosting, and hatching their offspring. You can also kayak, canoe. and standup paddleboard through this watery refuge, the largest undeveloped mangrove ecosystem in America. So bring cameras, binoculars, GoPros and anything else that can record this majestic place and get out for a hike or a paddle. 32 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | MAY 2019
CROW visitors center ©Jenny Peters
However, when you are off the water and in your car, remember that while you are wandering these beautiful islands, despite being in a vehicle, you need to move a bit like a turtle. The island’s police force delights in pulling over drivers who exceed the 35-mph speed limit on the two-lane road that meanders out from Sanibel all the way to the tip of Captiva, so be warned that the slow pace here is part of the protected landscape (and plan accordingly for travel times). Settle in for a day of doing absolutely nothing but sunning and swimming; and if that becomes a bit monotonous, there’s an incredible place to explore called CROW—or the Clinic for the Rehabilitation of Wildlife—where adults and kids alike will be fascinated by the conservation and wildlife rehabilitation efforts happening there. CROW is Sanibel’s incredible veterinary teaching hospital and education center, established in 1968 for the express purpose of saving injured wildlife on and around the islands. Beginning with around 200 patients (think birds, reptiles, mammals, etc.), CROW treats over 4,000 wounded critters every year. Tour their fascinating visitor center, to see some of their recovered patients and sign up for a guided “Wildlife Walk” through the hospital. It’s an enlightening and fascinating experience. To see lots of birds in their natural habitat, be sure to book a trip out to wild Cayo Costa, the famed island state park just a short boat ride away from Captiva with Captiva Cruises, the venerable company that has been bringing visitors to this beautiful spot for over 30 years. It’s a protected place that’s the home of Shell Beach, where you’re encouraged to collect a few of the thousands of shells that wash up on the island’s pristine beach to take home as a memory of this wonderfully wild escape.
Sailing to Cayo Costa
STAY & DINE
Make the Tween Waters Island Resort and Spa home base, staying at that much-beloved inn built in 1931. It’s located up on Captiva Island where Pine Island Sound and the Gulf of Mexico practically touch one another, offering picturesque cottages or more traditional hotel rooms, many with water views. Meander across the street to the beach, where sheltered cabana beds, soft sea breezes and fine white sand await. Sanibel and Captiva Islands both have plenty of spots to relax with a beverage and a view, ranging from the Mucky Duck Pub, where convivial crowds have gathered since the 1970s for beer, raw oysters and sunset viewing every night. Head to the Bubble Room, one of the wackiest restaurants you’ve ever seen, where memorabilia from film and television vie with a massive collection of antique toys that fill the rooms of this family home that’s been a meeting place for pie lovers since 1979. Check out more recent popular eateries like Doc Ford’s Rum Bar & Grille, Keylime Bistro, and T2 Traders surrounded by cute little boutiques in the Village Shops. But we’ll warn you now: when you’ve fully embraced the bucolic charms of Sanibel and Captiva for the first time, you may never want to leave. Tween Waters
For more information on Sanibel and Captiva Island, visit fortmyers-sanibel.com. • MAY 2019 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 33
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GEORGIA ON YOUR MIND WHERE TO EAT, STAY & PLAY WHEN VISITING NEXT YEAR’S MASTERS By Laurie Bain Wilson
ell, Tiger roared into history last month, winning for the fifth time at the Masters Tournament at Augusta National in Georgia. Golfers and golf fans live for this tournament. In fact, if they blow their New Year’s resolutions, they know they get a do-over in April—to them, it’s the Masters that begins the new year, they’ll greet each other with a “Happy New Year, Y’all.” The Masters is also considered the unofficial first day of Spring. Of course, green is the official color of the tournament from the rolling green hills on the course to the storied Green Jacket.
Masters Tournament ©Alexander Wilson
Traditions are steeped here, this is hallowed ground. The towering Georgia pine trees reach for the sky and the players reach for a spot on the larger-than-life leaderboard. Typically scheduled for the second Sunday in April, the tourney is a pricey ticket—the three practice session days that begin the Monday prior before the tourney are slightly less expensive—and the beauty of attending the practice sessions is that you’ll see the players relaxed, slaps on backs, while perfecting their shots on the challenging course. Another plus: you can bring a camera (but not to the tournament). You’ll easily spot the pro shop—the long lines are a give-away. That’s because the merchandise sold here is sold only here—you will not find it online or in any store around the country or world— and a shirt or hat with the Masters logo is a status symbol, for sure. To experience Augusta National is to step back in time. Patrons are well mannered (it’s required of them—no running, no cellphones) and prices for food are also a throwback—the traditional pimento cheese sandwich costs $1.50. A beer is $4. And, while golf is an obvious reason to visit, and the Masters most certainly put this part of Georgia on the map, there are other compelling reasons to visit this slice of the Peach State. It’s time to start planning for April 2020. Cork and Flame
EAT Cork & Flame is hot all year-round—and ramped up during the Masters. The fine dining/tapas/wine shop culinary destination in Evans serves innovative veggie dishes and creative salads, but meat and game entrees are also popular. Vegetarians and vegans love that Chef Justin Hayes uses separate grills for those dishes. Order the crème brulee—it’s set ablaze tableside—for instant flame and fame. Info: corkandflame.com. Cucina 503 in Augusta is also a solid choice for Masters’ fans, and locals, too—lots of golf convo here during Masters Week. The house specialty is the Roasted Chicken and Wild Mushroom Pappardelle— and the Shrimp Scampi Tagliolini is a favorite, too. Save room for the panna cotta. Info:503cucina.com. Goolsby’s in Evans is home to Southern cookin’ and gets a birdie for barbecued chicken, pork loin and ribs, grits, mac ‘n cheese, biscuits, black-eyed peas. You’ll be in good company, too—this is a popular spot for golfers and fans with the coveted badge hanging around their neck. Info: goolsbys.com. Frosty Rolls You gotta have ice cream when in Georgia and this place in Augusta is spot-on, especially for Southern butter pecan. The concept is unique—the ice cream made here is rolled. Info:706564-5361.
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STAY Players and sometimes spectators rent homes from locals who leave town for the week, but there are decent hotel choices, too (although you won’t find any high-end chains). And, of course, expect hotel room prices to be inflated during Masters Week, that’s par for the course (see what we did there?).
Columbia County kayaking Betty’s Branch Courtesy of Columbia County Visitors Bureau
The Holiday Inn Augusta West Savvy visitors to the Masters make neighboring Columbia County their 19th hole—for a place to stay and for the handful of great restaurants. This hotel is a good bet and is a quick putt away, about a 15-minute drive. In the morning, a complimentary country breakfast with grits, biscuits and gravy and waffles is where you’ll geek out with other golf-loving fans before heading out for the day to the Augusta National course. Info:lhg.com/holidayinn/hotel/us.
PLAY Outdoor Augusta Slip into the true South with a guided kayak tour from Outdoor Augusta. Local guide, Andy (chill kayaker by day, musician by night) will help you navigate the local waters including Betty’s Branch and Little River, pointing out the river wildlife like osprey nests and turtles. Info: 706-399-4037. Augusta Canal Trail Biking along the canal trail is another Southern pastime that’s sweet on a spring day. Rent bikes at the Bicycle Peddler in Savannah Rapids Park and cruise the shaded 7.5-mile trail along the Savannah River. Info: bikepeddleraugusta.com. Laurel and Hardy Museum No joke! The comedy team’s museum is here with plenty of fascinating memorabilia. Oliver Hardy was born in this neck of the woods and the museum pays tribute to the duo. Info: laurelandhardymuseum.com. •
Masters Tournament ©Alexander Wilson
ATLANTA HOT SPOTS New Yorkers planning to attend next year’s Masters, should fly into Atlanta, rent a car, spend a day or two in the city—and then make the easy two-hour drive to Augusta. While in Atlanta, stay at Hotel Clermont, the iconic hotel which sits a block away from the celebrated Ponce de Leon Market. Hit the rooftop bar—a DJ spins and Southern cocktails stir. And you must eat at Tiny Lou’s, a FrenchAmerican brasserie with a Southern twang—like the Vidalia Onion Soup with Blue Ridge apples, Sourdough and Gruyere. Info: hotelclermont.com; tinylous.com.
Rooftop at the Overland ©Lauren Rubinstein
The Kimpton Overland Hotel, adjacent to Porsche North America headquarters and the Atlanta Hartsfield Jackson Airport is unique. Sip a sip on the Rooftop Lounge and you’ll watch the planes takeoff and will also have views of the Porsche handling course. Take an outside seat at the on-site Apron and dive into Grilled Branzino. At Kimpton’s comp wine hour, you’ll mingle with other golf fans who flew in for the Masters from all over the world and are spending the night here. Info: ihg.com/kimptonhotels/hotels/us. MAY 2019 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 35
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THE RALEIGH BEER TRAIL A DESTINATION WORTH THE HOPS! By Tash Bazika
ead south this spring to be welcomed with a pint, a juicy burger, and blossoming metropolis. Raleigh, North Carolina is traditionally lumped with Durham and Chapel Hill in the Research Triangle, with notable university Duke seeking all the attention. However, today, the entrepreneurial city defines itself as a city worth visiting without crossing city limits. From inventive art galleries and ambitious restaurants to unique craft breweries, Raleigh is an up and coming city worthy of a visit, even if just for the ultimate beer trail. THE BEER TRAIL
©Ray Black III
Whether you prefer a rich gold ale or dark, sweet malt, the Raleigh Beer Trail has it all. With over 25 breweries participating in the immense trail spanning from Wake Forest to Holly Springs, you will want to choose a designated driver for this one. Each brewery is unique to its area and history, which guarantees a craft beer experience like no other. A brewery in an airplane hangar, North Carolina’s first woman-owned brewery, a West Texas-themed brewery—Raleigh brewers know something about thinking differently. Taking part in the trail is simple, print the passport from the site, grab a map and get drinking. Every brewery you visit, ask for a stamp and win prizes. 5 stamps will get you a beer opener, 10 stamps a beer hugger and 15 stamps will get you a Raleigh Beer Trail shirt. If you’re interested in learning more about beer, take a tour of the breweries and learn the difference between porters or doppelbocks or chat with a brew master. Info: visitraleigh.com/ foodie/drinks/breweries.
MORGAN STREET FOOD HALL
Drinking on an empty stomach is never a good idea, luckily Morgan Street Food Hall is not far from many of the breweries on the trail. This new lifestyle dining concept is not to be confused with a food court. Yes, it has many culinary options, and yes there is seating, but the food hall introduces the concept of cross meal ordering, where different meals are enjoyed in a sophisticated, stylish shared seating area. It features local eateries and restaurants as well as local food retailers such as Cow Bar, Cousins Maine Lobster, Carroll’s Kitchen, Raleigh Rolls and much more. Morgan Street Food Hall is the perfect stop to fuel up before continuing the trail. Info: morganfoodhall.com. 36 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | MAY 2019
WHERE TO STAY
Location is everything in this city and Raleigh Marriott City Center is exactly as it says, in the city center. Connected to the Silver-LEED Convention Center, the modern hotel boasts close proximity to the area’s top entertainment, shopping, dining, and business district. Inside, you will experience a warm welcome with sophisticated furnishings, large comfortable beds, and state-of-the-art amenities. If you like to stay fit on vacation, there is an indoor pool as well as a 24-hr fitness center equipped with everything you need to stay in shape. The award-winning Rye Bar and Southern Kitchen serve farm to table cuisine and uniquely crafted cocktails, ideal for a pleasant night in with friends. On the weekends, they have live entertainment. Info: marriott.com/raleigh-marriott-city-center. •
Welcome to Harborside resort montauk
The Harborside Resort Montauk offers a pleasant, friendly atmosphere. On-premise pool and tennis, attractive rooms, studios, suites and efficiencies - each offering many amenities. Montauk is one of the beautiful resort destinations on the East Coast. Miles of breathtaking coastline, nature trails and preserves, varied watersports from famed surfing to water-skiing to whale watching.
World renowned fishing is found here, too as Montauk is well recognized as one of the top fishing capitals of the world. For beach lovers, we provide our guests’ access to Montauk’s finest ocean and sound beaches. And, golfers, bring your clubs and golf at the magnificent Robert Trent Jones designed Montauk Downs State Park located just one mile from the Harborside. You can enjoy the pleasure of
371 West lake dr. montauk, nY 11954 631.668.2511 montaukharborside.com
nearby horseback riding, being pampered at a marinotherapeutic spa, great shopping and a trip to our treasured beacon - the Montauk Point Lighthouse. Sample the gourmet delights of the finest restaurants, just a short walk or drive away. You will never be at a loss of things to do in Montauk - where a great vacation begins!
Global Travel + Tours & EXCURSIONS “Where Luxury Meets Passion”
Come, Join Us!
One Day Excursion Swimming with the Pigs
+ Optional Adventures Exuma, The Bahamas
Spanish Wells or
Harbour Island – Pink Sand Beach
Please visit our website for other “Wonder” Excursions!
242.477.4103 242.803.4918
alkrallis@gmail.com globaltravelparadiseisland.com
TRAVEL
THE PLEASURE OF YOUR COMPANY
SEE INDIA AND ATTEND A WEDDING TOO! By Maxine Albert
rom the Maharishi to the Maharajas, ragas to yoga, India fascinates with its riot of aromas, flavors, sights, and sounds. These are on full display at the world famous Indian weddings. The over-the-top spectacle lasts for days and nights with rituals, customs, vibrant colors, flowers, endless Indian food, music, saris accented with bling, turbaned men, traditional and Bollywood dancing all mixed in an exuberant celebration. Anyone who has been to India wants an invite to this dazzling cultural immersion. Great News! Now visitors can work through travel professionals to attend and participate in these extravagant nuptials as a distinguished guest, interact with members of the wedding party and gobs of locals for a real insider experience of Indian culture. I was all in and contacted India expert Cox & Kings (it’s key to have a good organizer) who arranged my itinerary for A Big Fat Indian Wedding spread across two cities, Mumbai and Delhi, over two weekends.
The Happy Couple with Aunties & Mom
MAY 2019 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 39
MUMBAI The wedding party began in Mumbai, the nation’s entertainment capital and film industry hub, where an international crowd of Bollywood stars, global financiers and India’s young and restless flush with new wealth rub shoulders at stylish restaurants, nightclubs, and designer boutiques. In this city of extremes, be prepared for crowds and sensory overload. Sacred cows, Bentleys, and three-wheeled tuk-tuk moto-taxis share the streets with food carts, and pedestrians in business suits, dhotis, and brightly colored saris.
My Beautiful Lehenga Dress from Indian Designer Ritu Kumar
What To See & Do Some highlights of my lively Mumbai jaunt arranged by Cox & Kings included a visit to the private home of a celebrated art collector, strolling the historic Sassoon Docks, former trading port for all of India’s riches, now a bustling fish market, plus a fun-filled Bollywood dance workshop to learn some steps for the upcoming wedding. They also arranged lunch at The Bohri Kitchen, a family who welcomes guests into their home serving delectable lamb, chicken and vegetable dishes prepared in distinctive Yemeni style. The storytelling son and his mother the chef could helm a Michelin starred restaurant. Traditional All The Way Ever since Chanel created that little black number, we all know the importance of the dress. I could have attended the wedding in a stylish western outfit but opted to don traditional garb and headed to top Indian fashion designer Ritu Kumar’s boutique in Mumbai. Mrs. Kumar began reviving the country’s lost crafts in the 1970s when Indian fashions came from England. And what a stunning collection I beheld! I chose a voguish pink lehenga, an elaborately embroidered, pleated full ankle-length skirt, top and shawl crafted with gold plated yarns that sparkled in the sunlight. Info: ritukumar.com. . Heavenly Haven The iconic, historic Taj Mahal Palace overlooking the Gateway of India, frequented by royalty, heads of state and celebrities is a honeymoon favorite. Photographs of notable guests Bill Clinton, The Dalai Lama, John Lennon, Jackie Kennedy Onassis and Mick Jagger line the corridor walls. An opulent lobby with museum rich art collection and sumptuous suites in the Palace Wing exude the splendor and elegance of India’s colonial era. Guests are cosseted with butler service, a pool, ten acclaimed restaurants including the superb Marsala Kraft for Indian cuisine, Jiva Spa and a colonnade of fabulous clothing and jewelry shops. Info: tajhotels.com.
NEW DELHI Arriving in New Delhi for the final wedding celebration, I toured India’s vibrant capital visiting the majestic Red Fort, historic India Gate, a Sikh Temple, Santushti Complex’s upscale boutiques and relished a tasty lunch of local specialties at atmospheric Chor Bizarre Restaurant-cum-gallery. Old Delhi’s bustling medieval bazaars contrast New Delhi’s modern shops, trendy eateries, and chic nightspots.
Taj Mahal Palace
40 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | MAY 2019
Heavenly Haven The ultra-luxurious Leela Palace Hotel in the leafy diplomatic enclave is a favorite of dignitaries, the fashionable and fabulous. Many choose this five-star stunner with lavish interiors, deluxe suites, regal ballrooms and a beautiful landscaped open-air terrace for their wedding celebrations. Everything here has been done with exquisite attention to detail from the curated collection of art, striking silver elephants to the gorgeous floral displays. Guests are pampered with Rolls Royce transfers, butler service, Spa by ESPA, rooftop infinity pool, excellent Jamavar Indian Restaurant, and divine Mediterranean fare at Le Cirque (an outpost of the New York original). Info: theleela.com.
THE WEDDING A pair of drummers in pink turbans and gold-fringed kurtas greeted me as I arrived at the lavish Sangeet Wedding Reception, a palm tree-filled outdoor venue decorated with flowers galore. As is the custom, an astrologer had selected an auspicious day for the wedding after making sure the couple’s astrological charts were compatible. Food stations lined the football field-sized perimeter offering every cuisine from India and beyond. Guests sported a dazzling bouquet of red, blue, pink, orange and gold outfits as glamorous as a fashion show and I fit in perfectly with my fashionable lehenga. Mother of the bride, lovely Meenakshi clad in a mint green sari, treated me like an honored guest and introduced me as a friend from New York. Everyone was impressed, warm and chatty. Intricate Mehendi henna designs adorned the bride’s hands and feet. Tradition says the longer the bride retains her Mehendi, the more love she receives from her husband. My new friends, bride Freyan and groom Anup, held hands under a veil as guests showered them with rose petals, a ritual bestowing our blessings. Then a spectacular celebration began with the bride and groom’s families followed by all their respective family members putting on a Bollywood-style show with choreographed song and dance numbers they had rehearsed, many themed around the happy couple. The whole place then erupted into a massive joyous Bollywood dance fest. I danced for hours with everyone, including the newlyweds, their parents, relatives, and friends. Earlier, the happy couple had participated in traditional Tilak Ceremony. First, the groom’s family entered, and the bride’s family showered them with flower petals. The bride’s mother placed vermillion powder in a tika or dot on the groom’s forehead and performed an aarti, circling him seven times with a tray containing rice grains, a ghee lamp, flowers and a coconut (which is broken open at the door to ward off evil spirits and give an auspicious blessing). Offering tika on the forehead of the groom ensures a loving husband. Next, the bride entered, clad in a traditional red sari and exchanged garlands with the groom. The groom’s mother placed a shawl over the bride’s head, and various rituals ensued: a Hindu priest chanted mantras repeated by the couple who walked around the flame in the center of the altar while repeating vows and were tied together with a string. Groom Anup washed bride Freyan’s feet in milk symbolizing how she is now the Lakshmi of his life—the Hindu Goddess of fortune and prosperity. The Big Fat Indian Wedding exceeded my very high expectations. It was both exhilarating and touching to be an active participant, to be treated like family at their wedding and learn the importance of family in this fascinating land. •
Happy Couple
How To Plan The Trip India expert Cox & Kings, specialists in creating the finest, authentic customized experiences, did an extraordinary job arranging my trip. This prestigious travel company provided top guides, impressive food experiences, transfers, VIP no waiting at the crowded airports plus a remarkable itinerary in Delhi and Mumbai including the grand wedding. Info: coxandkings.com.
Leela Palce Lobby
For Personal Travel Around Mumbai and Delhi It’s key to use a car service with a good reputation and Kalka Travels is excellent. Info: kalkatravelindia.com. MAY 2019 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 41
TRAVEL
MOTHER-DAUGHTER GETAWAYS GO AHEAD! MAKE HER FEEL SPECIAL By Norah Bradford
hat better way to celebrate your bond and sneak in some quality time with the leading lady of your life? To help, here are six awesome mother-daughter getaway ideas, from relaxing spa days to exploring ancient monuments and beyond. USA Aspen offers your mother a vacation experience that will create lasting memories for years to come. Relax and unwind at Remède Aspen Luxury Spa located at the St. Regis Aspen. Spa guests enjoy complimentary access to all Remède areas including a newly refreshed oxygen lounge, steam caves, cold plunges, hot tubs, fitness center, and waterfall. For dinner, go to chic neighborhood hotspot, Clark’s Oyster Bar offering the country’s very best oyster and caviar selections from its marble raw bar, freshly baked sourdough, overflowing lobster rolls, and so much more. Tap the night off with some cocktails at Bad Harriet, a speakeasy adjacent to the Hotel Jerome serving craft cocktails and small bites. Info: stregisaspen.com; clarksaspen.com.
Florida Four Seasons Palm Beach
Experience absolute serenity at Four Seasons Resort Palm Beach. Inspired by Palm Beach’s relaxed yet glamorous resort style and the heritage of the famously elegant island, the beachfront resort combines the allure of Palm Beach with the easygoing pace by the water. Recently renovated, be among the first to discover this gem on the island’s widest stretch of sand. Dine at Florie’s, the first restaurant and bar in the U.S. in partnership with three-star Michelin Chef Mauro Colagreco. Info: fourseasons.com/palmbeach.
ENGLAND
Corinthia Hotel London
GREECE Take your mom to a piece of Greek history at Citta dei Nicliani, a designated ancient monument nestled on the Mani Peninsula in Koita. The historic structure spans centuries. In fact, it’s what makes this hotel so unique with open stone walls and engravings from its long history. Thankfully, modern amenities have been enjoyed by guests. In the room or in the patio, guests favor an enriched breakfast which includes fresh bread, homemade jams, the famous lalaggia of Mani, as well as cheese, olives, and cakes. Drinks, homemade liqueurs and various snacks can also be enjoyed during the day. Area activities include horse riding, hiking and walking. Mani has more than 20 hiking trails, with paths leading to Byzantine and ancient monuments and lovely beaches. Info: cittadeiinicliani.com. 42 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | MAY 2019
Koita, Greece Citta dei Nicliani
Celebrate at London’s Corinthia Hotel, a luxury hotel with a unique location nestled not too far away from the Thames, the iconic structures of British government, and Trafalgar Square. ESPA Life is quite simply the next generation of spa and is one of the largest and most exclusive in central London, making it the ideal spot for mom to relax. The Corinthia is also a dining destination, courtesy of Tom Kerridge’s Bar & Grill. While in London, be sure to take your mom to experience the traditional afternoon tea at Fortnum & Mason. Info: corinthia.com; fortnumandmason.com.
CANADA Located in Vancouver’s historic and fashionable Yaletown, steps away from the inner harbor, entertainment, shopping, spas and twenty-five minutes from international airport, is Canada’s luxurious Opus Hotel Vancouver. Uniquely stylish and always fresh, Opus offers guests an unmatched boutique hotel experience. The hotel features 96 guestrooms that blend contemporary design with warm vibrant colors. Experience a relaxing and rejuvenating facial treatment at Skoah Spa at Lower Lonsdale in North Vancouver. Finish the night at Victor featuring a contemporary and seasonally inspired menu highlighting a wide array of Pacific Northwest seafood and a tiered selection of specialty steaks. Info: vancouver.opushotel. com; skoah.com; parqvancouver. com/restaurants/the-victor.
Vancouver OPUS
FRANCE
La Bastide de Gordes Garden
PORTUGAL The Alma Lusa is a boutique hotel which has garnered a number of awards and is centrally located in Lisbon’s historic Praça do Município, close to the city’s most famous attractions, including historical monuments, the Terreiro do Paço square, the Baixa and Chiado neighborhoods, not to mention the shopping boulevards, world-class nightlife and trendy restaurants and bars. The Alma Lusa’s Delfina Restaurant features an à la carte service, boasting a wide range of Portuguese, Mediterranean and international specialties, along with a vast wine selection. A snack-bar is also available for guests craving a lighter meal or snack. Rossio Square is steps aways from the hotel, while the Chiado and its famed shops and cafés are conveniently located as well. Make time for a night out at Bairro Alto, Lisbon’s premier nightlife area. Info: almalusahotels.com. •
Set atop a rocky outcrop at the heart of the Luberon in Provence, the village of Gordes offers exceptional views. At the heart of the village is La Bastide de Gordes which offers all the splendor of a former stately home. Carved into the very rock face of the hill, and built on 12th-century ramparts, the chateau is integrated into fortifications of the village. The fine art of receiving guests is evident throughout the rooms and suites, three of which boast private terraces. Accommodations are immaculately restored and will transport you to another era. The hotel’s restaurants, L’Orangerie and La Citadelle, both feature Provençal cuisine made with local and seasonal products and also offer regional wines. Meals can be enjoyed in the vaulted dining room or on the shaded terrace with its view of the valley. The Sisley Paris spa offers massages and features a hot tub, massage whirlpools, a hammam, an indoor chromatic pool and a solarium. There are two outdoor pools in the gardens which are surrounded by a sun deck and offer unrestricted views of the valley. Info: labastidedegordes.com; airellescollection.com. Lisbon Praça do Município
MAY 2019 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 43
FEATURES
THROUGH THE LENS Photography By AnnieWatt.com
AMERICAN FRIENDS OF THE LOUVRE GALA
Chien Chung “Didi” Pei, Beatrice Pei, Consul General Anne-Claire Legendre, Joan Kahn, Franck Laverdin
BREAST CANCER ALLIANCE LUNCHEON IN WASHINGTON DC
Franck Laverdin, Consul General AnneClaire Legendre David Song, Michelle Kosinski, Kathleen Harnden, Veronique Weinstein, Yonni Wattenmaker, Sharad Goyal
Jens Mueffelmann, Andrea Mueffelmann, Mike Perlis, Missy Perlis, Michael Halsband, Jessica Foman
Sana Sabbagh, Nicole Salmasi
Hannah Byers, Koa Beck, Astrid Larson, Lysa Rohan
Jonathan Amet, Harry Cooper, Naoma Tate, Tim White
Raina Miranda, Nicole Salmasi, Guest, Isabella de Conti, Elizabeth Segerstrom
Christopher Forbes, Elizabeth Segerstrom
44 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | MAY 2019
Eleni Tousimis, Christie Manning, Margot Stephenson, Ellen Terry, Elas Walsh
Jennifer L. Porter, Gretchen Richards, Pamela Passman, Rita Roy
Kenneth Fan, Jodi King, Caroline King, Dana Kuhar
CELEBRATION OF SCOTLAND’S TREASURES HONORS ANDY SCOTT
Vinny Rovita, Hilary MacGillivray, Helen Sayles, Leila Rovito, DuWayne Sayles, Alasdair Nichol
Yonni Wattenmaker Andy Scott, Paul Roberts
David Song, Kathleen Harnden, Veronique Weinstein, Sharad Goyal
Naoma Tate, Christopher Forbes
Trish Shannon, Sharon Dillard, Lisa Walsh, Yonni Wattenmaker
Peter Drummond-Hay, Christopher Gow, Mark Bishop
Junior Committee And Friends
Dermod Sullivan, Anne Hall Elser
Kenneth Fan, David Song, Dana Kuhar
Peter McWhinnie, Christopher Gow, Christine Scott Morton, Keith Scott Morton
Patrick Duffy, Nicolas Villalon, Alasdair Nichol
MAY 2019 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 45
EL MUSEO DEL BARRIO PRE-GALA PARTY
William Haseltine, Maria Eugenia Maury
FRENCH HERITAGE SOCIETY BOOK AWARDS
Berta Gonzalez, Alex Morris, Javier Morales, Susanna Temkin, Anne Dayton Kevin Hurley, Elizabeth Stribling, Cheryl Hurley
Grimanesa Amoros, Titina Penzini, Maria Eugenia Maury, Sana Sabbagh, Victoria Wyman, Gloria Fieldcamp
Cheryl Hurley, Caroline Weber
Alejandra Cicognani, Patrick Charpenel
Andrew Bevan, William Haseltine
Paula Froelich, Debbie Bancroft
John Seery, Danny Baez, Ignacio Galan
Barbara de Portago, Victoria Wyman, Veronique Bich
Roy Kean, Carolina Von Humboldt, Tony Bechara, Michael Gross
Jennifer Herlein, Caroline Weber, Jonathan Marder
46 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | MAY 2019
FRIENDS OF BUDAPEST FESTIVAL ORCHESTRA KICK-OFF SOIRÉE
Odile de Schiétère-Longchampt, Consul General Anne-Claire Legendre, Elizabeth Stribling
Sylvia Hemingway, Ivan Fischer, Libby Pataki, Ambassador Donald & Vera Blinken, Daisy Soros, Governor George Pataki
Stephanie Stokes, Van Kirk Reeves
Carol Strauss, Susan Bender, Alexandra Nicklas, Kathleen Horvath, Sylvia Hemingway
Janet Desforges, Jennifer Herlein, CeCe Black
Governor George Pataki, Heidi-Lee Komaromi, Andrew Komaromi
Veronique Bich, Lee Black, Judy McLaren
Stephen E. Benko, Laine Siklos, Ivan Fischer
Edgar Batista, Margo Langenberg
Geoffrey Bradfield, Rosalie Brinton, Guy Robinson
Margo Langenberg, Edgar Batista, Layla Diba, Sana Sabbagh
Sylvia Hemingway, Budapest Festival Orchestra
MAY 2019 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 47
LOOT GALA AT THE MUSEUM OF ARTS AND DESIGN
SAKS’ ROOPAL PATEL AND FIT’S VALERIE STEELE TALK FASHION SHOWS AND TRENDS AT THE COUTURE COUNCIL LUNCHEON
Dr. Young Yang Chung, Brbara Tober, Helen Drutt English Barbara Tober Josie Nadatori Dr. Valerie Steele, Roopal Patel, Kathy Reilly
Boo Grace, Barbara Tober, Sana Sabbagh Brent Winston, PJ Pascual, Kara Ross, Jean Shafiroff, Alisa Swidler, Liz Peek, Yaz Hernandez, Marjorie R. Harris
Adria de Haume, Joan Hornig
Barbara Tober, Ruth Shulman, Boo Grace
Chris Scoates, Mariquita Masterson, Barbara Tober, Libby Masterson Carole Divet Harting, Nina Whitman, Angela Dotson
Donald Tober, Barbara Tober 48 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | MAY 2019
Adria De Haume, Ailey Durham, Kay Unger
Eleanora Kennedy table
THE GREATER NEW YORK CHAPTER OF THE LINKS, INCORPORATED
Alma Rangel, Charlie Rangel, Congressman Adriano Espaillat, C. Virginia Fields Lauren Sorrel, Jane E. DeFlorio
The Links Incorporated
Assemblyman Michael Blake, Lucian Allen, Walter T. Mosley
Melanie Holland, Elizabeth Musmanno, Amy Hoadley
Susan Gutfreund, Gordon Kendall
Violet Gross, Julie Macklowe, Lisa Klein
Betty King Obiajulu, Dr. Kimberly Jeffries Leonard, Dr. Donna Jones, Grace Ingleton, C. Virginia Fields
Charmaine Shelton, Helen Shelton, Mrs. Shelton
Michelle Miller Morial, Rev. Elaine Flake, C. Virginia Fields
Hasoni Pratts, Michelle Miller Morial, Dominique Sharpton-Bright
Gala Co-Chairs Icema Gibbs and Katrina McGhee
Whether it is a charitable cause, a magazine cover, or a special occasion, the photographers with Annie Watt.com make an occasion more memorable. Annie and her associates embody the essence of professionalism, seamlessly moving through any assignment with finesse and an innate ability to capture the moment at its heart. Book a photographer/videographer, contact annie@anniewatt.com. MAY 2019 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 49
FEATURES
BITS & BAILEY
THE WHO, WHAT & WOW OF THE JET-SET SCENE By Bailey Beckett
heers, dears. Summer is on its way, however slowly it crawls to us. April may have been the cruelest month (weather wise) but, truth be told, Bailey is thrilled whenever he can wear his Tom Ford navy cashmere pea coat. The man is a mad genius (exhibit A: My Amex statement!). So, as I’m rooting through the closet for happier haberdashery this coming season (Villebrequin in da house!), I’ll multi-task and brief you on recent and upcoming happenings. SEA AND BE SEEN Bailey was incredibly charmed by the most unexpected visit: the Mr. C Seaport hotel in, you read right, the Seaport. Huh? That was my reaction: this area hasn’t been hot since Imelda’s shoe closet. But it’s suddenly scorching. Gone are the cheesy chain restaurants, tacky tourist shops It’s been replaced by buzzy bistros (Jean Georges in da house), chic boutiques (Milan’s 10 Corso Como’s first U.S. location!), the all-first-class iPic movie theater and the neighborhood’s very first upscale hotel. The brainchild of Maggio and Ignazio Cipriani, scions of the hospitality dynasty, Mr. C is a 66-room property with sweeping views of the East River, Brooklyn Bridge and New York skyline, and the charm and ambiance of a cozy hideaway in a bustling center. Even the hotel’s logo, a whimsical, dancing bow-tie, is adorable. The décor is a mix of stylish European glamour with nautical expressions (think lustrous teak veneers), housed in an historic red brick building on the edge of the neighborhood. Architect Thomas Juul-Hansen called on the simplistic Danish décor of his native country infused with the Cipriani family’s classic Old World style. Mr. C’s signature restaurant, Bellini, features modern Italian cuisine, punctuated with house-made pastas, finest prime meats, fresh seafood and complimentary Bellini’s. The hotel also features a more intimate Lobby Lounge, which is quick becoming a must for New York’s most discerning mobs. Info: mrcseaport.com.
Mr. C Suite - Living Room
OLD BECOMES NEW(ENGLAND)
Blantyre Daytime
50 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | MAY 2019
Those looking to get out of the city this summer had better hurry: there are only 23 rooms at the iconic Blantyre in the Berkshires. The Relais & Châteaux resort, which was renovated last year, is one of only 12 remaining Gilded Age mansions in the popular resort destination, but its modernity is the true surprise. Elegant rooms, cottages and carriage houses are complemented by a meditative sanctuary at its spa and four inspired, Michelin-worthy restaurants. Enjoy daily chef tastings at The Bistro Restaurant, where farm to table goes straight to the mouth. The restaurant features cozy fireplaces, an evening pianist and a 9,000-bottle wine collection. Before dinner (or after), indulge in some bubbly at the Perignon Champagne Salon. The speakeasy-style LaCave, hidden unground, offers champagne cocktails and lite bites year-round, while the lush garden patio restaurant The Cloister features seasonal treats, including an upscale twist on caviar. Info: blantyre.com.
SPAIN-BRAIN Those looking for a more exotic, international adventure had better grab their passports now because demand is bursting at Almanac Barcelona, a new boutique design hotel in the heart of the Eixample Derecho district. The Almanac Barcelona itself is housed in a combination of two historic buildings fused perfectly by award-winning architect Carlos Ferrater, whose neophiliac interpretation offers a twist to the grand hotels of the Art Deco era. Rich in history and architectural wonder, Almanac Barcelona is a feast for all the senses, including a décor by Barcelona legend Jaime Beriestain, whose elliptical lines are accentuated with brass, oak and walnut flourishes throughout. The lobby in particular evokes drawing room grandeur, with sapphire-hued velvet juxtaposed with earth-colored marble and ton-surton bold prints, while its guestrooms feature cozy reading nooks flanked by floating bay windows and a Juliet balcony with views of bustling Gran Via. The dining is just as wonderous. At the all-day Mediterranean brasserie Linia, Chef Sergio Ruiz dazzles with local ingredients that highlight Catalan specialties. Indulge in delicacies like escalivada (roasted vegetables) with anchovies, olives and Iberian rice, or Iberian bellota ham (Jamón ibérico) paired with Dali’s Bread, homemade smoked butter, payoyo cheese (from the Sierra de Cadiz), sobrasada, and artisanal mustard. Info: almanachotels.com.
Almanac Lobby
MUSIC TO MY EARS One of Bailey’s least-guilty pleasures (a lonely list, admittedly) is classical music, and my obsession of late is The WA Concert Series, led by world-renowned clarinetist Charles Neidich. The series was founded three years ago by Neidich and fellow clarinetist, chef and spouse Ayako Oshima to bring together the most talented chamber musicians in New York and from abroad. And talented they are! Last month, I was charmed by the “Wind Power” concert by the New York Woodwind Quintet, whose members include flutist Carol Wincenc, oboist Stephen Taylor, hornist William Purvis, bassoonist Marc Goldberg and the aforementioned Neidich. The concerts take place at the Tenri Cultural Center in Chelsea and attract a diverse crowd from intellectuals to young, foreign music students. The final concert of the season on May 10th will feature the Danish Midtvest Ensemble, whose program, “Nordic Voice,” will include seldomheard works by Per Nørgaard , Jean Sibelius, Vagn Holmboe, Carl Nielsen, and Niels W. Gade. Info: waconcertseries.com.
A(MORE), PLEASE Speaking (err, writing …) of delicious fare, Bailey is savoring the recent opening of Rose’s Daughter, an American trattoria in downtown Delray Beach, FL. The restaurant, by chef owner Suzanne Perrotto of the acclaimed Brule Bistro, will offer handcrafted, madefrom-scratch pies in a rustic pizza oven, plus homemade pastas, charcuterie, cheeses, tableside presentations and dishes from her mom’s original Italian menu. Its heirloom dishes include gnocchi verde, with house-made ricotta, pecorino cream reduction, freshly cracked pepper; house-made sausage Bolognese; and ricotta cheesecake for dessert. “Sunday dinners were the heart of our family,” explains the chef, who is newly certified in Neapolitan pizza making. The vibe is friendly and familial, with a décor reminiscent of an authentic New York “burrough.” Info: 561-271-9423.
AND FINALLY Bailey had a blast at the 80s themed “Two Charities, One Mission: Saving Lives” concert last month, benefitting The R Baby Foundation and Michael’s Missions. The funds collaborated on the event, which was held in the Hammerstein Ballroom and featured performances by Rev. Run from Run-DMC and acclaimed DJ Mel DeBarge. RBaby is an organization that raises money and awareness in treating young infants with viral infections, especially in emergency rooms, while Michael’s Mission focuses on education, research and patient support for people suffering from colorectal cancer. More than 1,000 guests enjoyed the music, as well as 80s activations like Pop Rocks Cocktails, a themed Candy Bar and classic arcade machines. In a touching tribune, WNBC-TV meteorologist, Dave Price, presented the Today Show’s Craig Melvin with an award to honor his work with Michael’s Mission. All in, the event raised $1.8 million. Info: rbabyfoundation.org. • MAY 2019 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 51
FEATURES
TECH TALK
SPRING TO THE FUTURE By Will Reed
ith the days getting longer as we inch towards summer, we are given more time to enjoy every moment thanks to new ways to save time. Whether it’s to gift a special friend or family member, catch up on some house work, enjoy the outdoors, or just find ways to wind down, today’s technology is making these tasks, well more enjoyable and easier than ever. Here, some perfect finds to add to your list of to-dos.
SPECIAL GIFT GIVING
SHARING FAMILY MEMORIES
THE RIGHT RUB
What could be better than giving a special someone the Belmint Shiatsu Foot Massager? What makes this one better is that It comes equipped with powerful deep-kneading Shiatsu massage nodes that work synergistically on feet to relieve chronic pain, stubborn knots, muscle tension, plantar fasciitis to use anytime...anywhere. Info: belmint.com.
The Aura Frame makes sharing family memories a snap. Not only does the Aura look like something you’d actually want to display at home, but the smart frame also takes all the annoying effort out of finding the perfect photos to upload. Once synced to your phone, Aura can determine exactly which images are important to you (based on the people and things you shoot most) and which will look good (no low resolution or blurry snaps). The result is a rotating gallery of your best photos on a super-high resolution display. Coolest of all? If you tire of an image you can simply wave it away with gesture controls. Info: auraframes.com.
TECH FOR THE OUTDOORS
THE MASTER CHEF
Make the chore of cooking easier with ChefSteps Joule Sous Vide. The device is the world’s smallest, smartest, most powerful sous vide for perfect cooking every time. Joule heats to the perfect temperature—no more or less— which means that your proteins won’t overcook, ever. The Visual Doneness™ feature in the Joule app displays exactly how food cooks. Especially wonderful for those hosting a party or dinner to spend more time with guests—and not in the kitchen. Half the size of other sous vide machines, it’s small enough to slip into a top drawer. iOS or Android required. Info: chefsteps.com. 52 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | MAY 2019
BE A GRILL PRO
Many of us like to grill during the warmer months using the tried-andtrue propane powered grill for speed and convenience. However the one move which could leave you looking like the newbie is an empty propane bottle, or even guessing how much propane remains. Problem solved! From Winks Labs comes The Quirky Refuel which enables the user to check the status of the propane tank on a cell phone app synced to Wi-Fi. Info: wink.com.
BARBECUE PERFECTION
Attention all grill masters. Time to add this to your list of must-haves. The new Meater+, a long range (165-feet plus) wireless probe inserted into meat or chicken can tell both internal and external temperature. Through special algorithm it will indicate when food is cooked to the desired temperature on your cell phone. Can also be used in the kitchen or smoker. Info: meater.com.
FEELING THE HEAT
Need to move food from the grill to table? Or perhaps move logs to a fireplace. Whatever the occasion, invest in a pair of Bluefire Pro Heat Resistant Gloves. These superhero gauntlets are made of a 100 percent Kevlar/Aramid/Nomex flame resistant material mix (think: car race drivers meet bulletproof vests) and certified to 932 degrees for heat resistance. Info: bluefiregloves.com.
SPRING CLEANING
MOP & GO
Designed to wet mop, damp sweep, or dry sweep hard floors, the iRobot Braava Jet® 240 Mopping Robot tackles dirt and stains in small spaces. Download the iRobot App to get the most out of your robot. With its square shape and compact size, Braava Jet® gets into hard-to-reach places, including under and around toilets, into corners, and below cabinets. The mopping robot searches for obstacles in its path before it sprays which certainly helps to protect furniture, rugs, and walls. Info: irobot.com.
BREATHE EASY
SQUEAKY CLEAN
Powered by a lithium-ion battery the Karcher WV5 Window Vacuum Cleaner first uses a spray-on detergent then hovers up to be combined with a micro-fiber cloth to get that perfect shine. Not just for window cleaning, this versatile tool works on any flat surface and is ideal for tackling all kinds of cleaning jobs around the home, like cleaning shower screens and tiles. It also leaves mirrors sparkling clean, and even eliminates liquid spills from floors and worktops in no time. Info: kaercher.com.
Spring cleaning creates dust and when combined with pollen and other allergens just being able to breathe deeply can be regarded as an indication of a successful clean. Enter the Coway Airmega 300 Air Purifier which can tackle the air quality for up to 1,256 square feet. The Airmega has a dual, two-way air purifier which removes 99.97 percent (that’s a lot) of particles from the air while a monitor on the Airmega enables real-time air quality measurement. Info: cowaymega.com. •
MAY 2019 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 53
REAL ESTATE & YOUR HOME
AROUND TOWN HARLEM By TJ Johnson
arlem just may be next place you should consider as your new address. Over the last decade, we have all heard how much Harlem has changed, and the price increases reflect on this. And even with the increases, residential prices are still nowhere near the costs of downtown residences. Here, you still get a better bang for your buck. This may be the time to think about buying real estate in Harlem because there is another big boom coming. Developers are building 1.7 million feet of retail, office and commercial units in East Harlem. The new re-zoning in Harlem allows new construction to rise much higher than in the past. This will be creating a lot more available jobs in Harlem, which will create a higher demand for housing.
A BIT OF HISTORY
Harlem, which becomes East Harlem east of Fifth Avenue, was once covered with wooded hills and valleys inhabited by Indians when the Dutch started the settlement of Nieuw Haarlem in 1658. Black slaves owned by the West India Company helped build a road, later called Broadway, and the Haarlem outpost grew. In the early 19th century, affluent Manhattanites, including James Roosevelt, built estates and plantations here. It was also a haven for the poor, with Irish immigrants among those who built shantytowns on the East River. Harlem began to develop as a suburb for the well-to-do when the New York and Harlem Railroad started service from Lower Manhattan in 1837. More railway lines followed, as handsome brownstones, schools and stores went up.
WHAT TO SEE & DO
The culture is alive and well in Harlem with museums, theaters and, of course, restaurants old and new. • Museums/Theater At the Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture (Lenox Ave at West 135th St.), you’ll find the largest library of black and African culture in the U.S. The former vaudeville house, the Apollo (on West 125th St.) was built in 1914 and continues to entertain with live entertainment. In East Harlem, be sure to visit the El Museo del Barrio (Fifth Avenue and East 104th St.) which is NYC’s leading Latino cultural institution, showcasing the artistic landscape of Latino, Caribbean, and Latin American cultures. • Restaurants Number 1 on my list is Lolo’s Fish Shack (West 116th St.) which continues to please with its unique vibe. You may think you’ve already arrived on the sunny shore of a Caribbean island. Put this on your must-do list. Next, is the Harlem’s Soul Food Landmark, Sylvia’s on Malcom X Blvd. If you are looking for some good old-fashioned Southern comfort food, then here’s the spot. They’ve been pleasing palates since 1962. 54 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | MAY 2019
HARLEM LIVING
There are a lot of new happenings in Harlem and most of the focus is conveniently located near easy transportation. Here, some developments to consider.
56 West 125 Jay Group
543 West 122nd Street Across from the Morningside Heights Campus for the Jewish Theological Seminary is The Vandewater a 32-story building with 183 apartments. Residences will range in size from one- to four-bedrooms with magnificent views of Hudson River, Central Park and Midtown Manhattan. The 24,000 square feet of amenity space will include a “landscaped motor court,” outdoor dining, a fitness center, and private gardens. Prices start at $750,000 for a studio. Info: thevandewater.com. 233 West 125th Street After more than a decade of planning, Harlem’s Victoria Theater has finally been redeveloped into a mixed-use project that will become home to 191 apartments, a hotel, and a cultural center. The residential and hotel components of the development will be divided between two 26-story towers—one will rise above the theater and be the residential portion while the other will accommodate the hotel. The hotel is set to be a Renaissance Marriott with 210 rooms. The development will also include parking space for 90 cars. Although there are no active listings at present, keep an eye on it. Info: cityrealty.com. 543 West 122 Vandewater Terrace
233 West 25 Victoria Theater
56 West 125th Street The Jay Group developers are planning to construct a ground-up, 17-story residential building on West 125th Street, near Malcolm X Boulevard. The project will be one of the tallest buildings in the area and will include 141 apartments averaging over 700 square feet, retail on the ground-floor, parking for 71 bicycles, and recreation spaces for tenants. Info: cityrealty.com. 2252 Third Avenue Permits have been filed for this proposed 20-story mixed-used tower in East Harlem. Conveniently located on two city blocks south of the 125th Street subway station (Lexington Ave. line), the 212-foot tall development will yield a total of 60,681 square feet with a total of 61 residences. Roy Moussaieff under the 2252 Third Avenue LLC is listed as the owner behind the applications with Robert Bianchini of ARC Architecture responsible for the design. Thelonious “TJ” Johnson is a licensed broker with Brown Harris Stevens, teamed with Ogden Starr, who enjoys sharing his tips on his favorite city. If you are looking for a residence in Harlem—or anywhere else throughout Manhattan—contact him for any of your buying or selling needs. Info: bhusa.com/real-estate-agent/thelonious-tj-johnson. • MAY 2019 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 55
REAL ESTATE & YOUR HOME
©VDP
NINE ON THE HUDSON A WATERFRONT OASIS By Patricia Canole
ituated along the Hudson River and on New Jersey’s “Gold Coast,” is the 13-story, 278-unit residential development better known as Nine on the Hudson. Developed by K. Hovnanian at Port Imperial Urban Renewal VI, LLC, it sets new standards for luxury living in West New York, NJ area. “My grandfather, Kevork Hovnanian, believed in building superior homes and that’s what we’re doing at Nine on the Hudson,” stated Alexander Hovnanian, Area President for K. Hovnanian at Port Imperial Urban Renewal VI, LLC. “Homebuyers have the opportunity to live in not only a luxurious development but one that emphasizes resort-style living via an unparalleled amenities package, expansive residences and high-end finishes.” Conveniently situated next to the Hudson River Waterfront Walkway and within walking distance to the Port Imperial Ferry Terminal, Nine on the Hudson is ideal for buyers who work in NYC. Additionally, the development is in close proximity to some of the area’s notable eateries and destinations such as Son Cubano, La Rumba Cubana, SEAK and HAVEN; Donnelly Memorial Park and Hamilton Park, both of which boast breathtaking views of the NYC skyline. “Nine on the Hudson has attracted buyers from as close as a few buildings away to as far as California,” Alexander continued. “Our sales team is witnessing growing interest from buyers in New York City, especially those who work or will work in the far West Side and Hudson Yards, due to the 25-minute ferry commute.” 56 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | MAY 2019
©Guillaume Gaudet
THE RESIDENCES Designed by Marchetto Higgins Stieve Architects, Nine on the Hudson’s tiered design offers more corner views of the New York City skyline than a conventional vertical structure. Rather than static views of NYC that surrounding developments offer, the property showcases a dynamic view with depth perception. With interiors by Childs Dreyfus Group, all homes have opulent kitchens with large islands, Bosch® appliances, Italian Pedini® cabinetry, Restoration Hardware® light fixtures and luxurious marble floors/walls in the owner’s suite. Most of homes include floor-to-ceiling windows and direct access to private balconies.
©Guillaume Gaudet
THE AMENITIES The amenities package is brimming with luxurious touches and plenty of free-time diversions. More than 31,655 square feet of outdoor and indoor amenity space, provides residents a five-star experience that also includes a 24/7 concierge. A communal rooftop lounge boasting private cabanas, fire-pits and outdoor heaters will offer the ideal setting to gaze at views of the Hudson River and Manhattan. A landscaped green terrace leads to an infinity edge pool and hot tub. There are numerous barbecue grills, wet-bar, billiard table and large screen televisions assist in providing endless options for entertaining. Adding to the oasis-style experience at Nine on the Hudson is the state-of-the-art, two-story fitness center, with direct access to an expansive 2,000 square-foot, Zen-inspired yoga room to achieve ultimate relaxation. With sales being handled in-house, residences range from 773-squarefoot, one-bedroom to 2,580-square-foot three-bedroom homes with pricing ranging from $600,000 to $6,000,000. Due to a twenty-year tax abatement program, buyers purchasing at Nine on the Hudson pay a 1.1 percent property tax rate for the first ten years, with gradual increases during the remaining ten. Promanade ©VDP
For more information on Nine on the Hudson, visit khov.com/nine. •
PENTHOUSE PERFECTION Welcome to New Jersey’s most expensive condo. Nine on the Hudson pushes the envelope with the penthouse’s design by creating a Zen oasis, inspired by Japanese design and Dutch aesthetics. The three bedroom, three-and-a-half bathroom penthouse boasts three balconies with views of Manhattan and a one-ofa-kind dining room inspired by a tatami concept, a minimalist-designed kitchen with a greenhouse and a private Zen garden with a dedicated tatami room. Other amenities include a great room with a fireplace, library with a balcony, and dining room with a bar. The master suite offers a balcony, walk-in closet and master bathroom with a marble infinity tub overlooking the Manhattan skyline. This $8 million wonder features a floating staircase in the foyer that leads up to a modern-glass cube on the penthouse’s expansive private terrace where you can celebrate the luxury of open air living. Soak in the views from the George Washington Bridge all the way down to One World Trade Center. It’s all yours.
Rooftop ©VDP
MAY 2019 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 57
Dream Estate in Florida $2,150,000 goes further in the Sunshine state.
Stay high and dry from Florida storms at 300+ feet above sea level. (Unusual for Florida.) 5,855 sq ft Southern Estate with 3 bed 4.5 bath, built in 2007 60 Acre property with a freshwater stream 2,900 sq ft party barn with stage, bar, and dance floor 3 bed 2 bath 1300+ sq ft guest cottage for visitors Resort-Style Saltwater Pool with Lagoon, Hot tub, Waterslide and Waterfall 2 Multi-acre horse pastures fully fenced with run-in shed Detached outdoor restroom for Ranch Hands Landscapers 1.5hrs downtown Orlando, :45min downtown Tampa, 1.5hrs to Pinellas beaches
Superior interior finishes include: 14 foot ceilings, 3 fireplaces, copper gutters, gas lanterns, dumb waiter, quartz kitchen counters and floor to ceiling marble showers. For sale by owner. Contact Cassie Bouldin at 727-385-1264. www.3364RackleyRd.com
REAL ESTATE & YOUR HOME
313 WEST 4 STREET INDOOR/OUTDOOR LIVING IN THE WEST VILLAGE TH
By Patricia Canole | Photography by Mike Finkelstein
adical and old guard, quaint and glitzy, authentic and ersatz, Greenwich Village is anything but a homogeneous neighborhood. In the 1790s, the area’s country estates were sold off and developed by landholders. Weavers, sailmakers, and craftspeople moved into rows of modest homes along streets that followed the boundaries of the old estates and travelers’ paths. Then in the 1830s, prominent families began to build townhouses in and around Washington Square, which had become a public park in 1828. To this day, the Village has retained its residential character. Every style of 18th- and 19th-century architecture, culture, and history intermingles here, from the gracious classical houses to converted stables as well. History is everywhere you turn— including West 4th Street. With careful reverence paid to the home’s historic past, 313 West 4th Street has undergone a meticulous two-year renovation. The 20-foot wide, four-and-a-half story (plus finished basement) residence now features five bedrooms, seven bathrooms encompassing some 5,300 square feet of sumptuous living space alongside 800 square feet of private outdoor space. Originally constructed in 1836, the home sits among one of the oldest intact block fronts in the West Village. Constructed in the Greek revival style, this stunning townhome has been called the “best preserved” house in the row by the Historic District report. MAY 2019 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 59
ELEGANCE ON ALL LEVELS
The parlor level opens to a stunning glass-and-steel foyer, laid with marble. Herringbone quarter-sewn white oak floors adorn a large rear living room, which features a wall of atelier-style windows and a handsome wood-burning fireplace. A helical staircase curves elegantly from level to level, while the elevator services the basement to the 4th floor. Smart home features are integrated throughout this well-planned residence, as well as a comprehensive security system and Lutron lighting. Full-house humidification, wall sensors with individual thermostats for each room, and radiant heat flooring under hard surfaces provide year-round comfort. Additionally, the entire home is wired for sound with Bowers & Wilkins speakers.
MODERN AMENITIES THROUGHOUT
Number 313 offers the epitome of indoor-outdoor living and entertaining. The garden floor is served by well-stocked kitchens inside and out and anchored by an exterior mudroom entry with storage. A sunlit breakfast room abuts the open chef ’s kitchen, which boasts a massive Lincoln Statuario marble island and features top-of-the-line appliances. Paved in bluestone, al fresco dining in the spectacular multilevel landscaped garden is effortless, thanks to the full outdoor kitchen. The basement also holds a built-in Loracani TL-30 safe, custom temperature controlled 500-bottle wine cellar, and a large media room. The serene full-floor master suite is graced with a decadent pass-through dressing area and luxurious bathroom, featuring a full slab Bianco Dolomiti steam shower with bench. Above the master level, you’ll find two gracious bedrooms, each with well-appointed ensuite bathrooms. Crowning the home is a sun-filled space that is equally suited as an additional bedroom suite, artist’s studio, home office or den. Set on a quiet, sun-soaked block, 313 West 4th Street, is at the center of one of the world’s most soughtafter residential enclaves. Esteemed fine dining and historic watering holes stand shoulder-to-shoulder on the surrounding streets, and the magnificent Hudson River Park, High Line and Whitney Museum are all within easy reach from this stunning West Village abode. The $19,995,000 home is stunning where no expense was spared. For more information on 313 West 4th Street, visit Leslie J. Garfield, lesliegarfield.com. • 60 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | MAY 2019
LUXURIOUS NAVIGABLE WATERFRONT PROPERTIES
1416 MOSS CREEK DR. JACKSONVILLE, FL 32225
Magnificent 11,600 Sq. Ft. Estate Home located in a Gated Golf and Waterfront Community. Community has a private fresh water lock system. Just minutes to the Intercoastal Waterway and the Atlantic Ocean directly from the backyard. Outstanding architectural detail throughout this Eco Block constructed home. PREVIOUS SYMPHONY SHOWHOME! The Home: Amenities: 7 En Suite Bedrooms 10 Seat Home Theater 2-Story Living and Family Room Upper Level Gameroom Great Views Mirrored Gym Gourmet Chefs Kitchen In-Ground Pool with Spacious Lanai Summer Kitchen Dock & Boat Lift Upper and Lower Level Wet Bars His and Her Libraries Separate Guest Apartment 4 Car Garage & 1 Small Storage Garage Large Tackle/Craft Room
MLS#: 951646
$3,599,000 SHARON MILLS, LUXURY REALTOR, GRI 4500 HODGES BLVD. JACKSONILLE, FL 32224
1228 WINDSOR HARBOR DR. JACKSONVILLE FL 32225
Exquisite Navigable Waterfront Property. One of the most spectacular waterfront homes in Queens Harbor Yacht & CC. Magnificent views! Home is built around a private courtyard pool with waterfall at its’ entrance. Home has expansive views of the’’ fresh’’ water harbor. This luxurious custom home encompasses 7 bedrooms, 8.5 bathrooms, 2 fireplaces, Executive Library, Theatre, Sauna, Gym, Game room, Guest Suite in Main Home, Secondary Guest Quarters with private outside entrance, Executive Chef’s Kitchen with outstanding water views, Basketball Court, Batting Cage, Grand Front Entrance with expansive heated pool and spa, outdoor kitchen. Bridge crosses over pool entrance to access the main home. Navigate from backyard to the ocean in 30 min. from your private dock.
MLS#: 955393 DIRECT: 904-534-6087 FAX: 904-339-9090 WWW.SHARONMILLSTEAM.COM
$3,569,000
REAL ESTATE & YOUR HOME
EXP REALTY
SOARING TO NEW HEIGHTS By Lyle Seltzer
he first cloud-based real estate brokerage, eXp —a subsidiar y of eXp World Holdings—is turning heads in the real estate industry. For the full year of 2018, eXp World Holdings revenue increased 220 percent to a record $500.1 million compared to $156.1 million in 2017. The number of agents and brokers on the eXp Realty platform increased by 139 percent to 15,570 at the end of 2018, compared to 6,511 at the end of 2017. The current agent count has risen to over 18,000. Residential transactions closed for 2018 rose 195 percent to 74,678 compared to 25,299 in 2017 with transaction volume increasing 226 percent to $19.8 billion compared to $6.1 billion in 2017. New York Lifestyles sat down with eXp Realty Agent Lenora Marshall to learn more about the company. What makes eXp Realty different than other real estate brokerages? Being the first cloud-based real estate brokerage, eXp Realty is the largest residential real estate brokerage by geography in North America, and the first and only real estate brokerage to operate as one company-owned brokerage in all 50 states. Can you tell us a little more about the ownership structure and your experiences? Sure. We have redesigned the traditional brokerage to create a company where agents can become shareholders at eXp Realty. Every agent has the unique opportunity to become a shareholder in their own company and celebrate the company’s financial success. From a financial standpoint, I have been able to purchase stock with 5 percent of my commission at 20 percent under the market price and have been awarded stock shares for my closings capping at a certain level. On top of that, this year I achieved a level of production to qualify for the eXp Realty ICON agent award program where I will receive $16,000 in publicly traded eXp World Holdings, Inc common stock. 62 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | MAY 2019
What are some other benefits of working at eXp Realty? There are many: eXp Realty is known throughout the industry as one of the most innovative brokerages and its agents have access to some of the most powerful technologies in real estate including top–tier lead generation software, transaction technology and content marketing tools—all at no additional cost. What is the training and the workday like? I love that I can take classes in the cloud. I can go to the IT support in the cloud for help or even hop in and speak with my broker. Agents collaborate with industry experts nationwide so that buyers and sellers know they are receiving the highest quality service across the country. Thanks Lenora that was very insightful. For more information on eXp Realty, visit lenoramarshall. exprealty.careers. •
Start Living Your Dreams on the Beach
2632 FAIRMONT COVE CT
CAPE CORAL, FL 33991
$520,000 Listing # 219026821
Enjoy the Southern exposure in this beautiful David Weekly home that overlooks the largest lake in the resort style Sandoval community. This exquisite home situated on almost a third of an acre has been professionally decorated and is being offered furnished. The second floor could actually be a second master suite. The timeless travertine floors, raised panel kitchen cabinets, and granite in the kitchen make it an entertaining delight. Then go out to the beautiful pool and spa where there is a tiki hut for you to enjoy an afternoon beverage while watching the beautiful sunsets. This amazing home has too many extras to list. The windows have been changed out to impact windows or there are added hurricane shutters for lower insurance costs. This home has everything on your wish list with 5 bedrooms, a den, 4 baths and a three car garage. One of the baths is a poolbath. There is a lovely space on the first floor that can be used for a media room, study or play room. Your most discriminating buyer will fall in love with the property. The Sandoval community offers fishing, walking, biking swimming, tennis and so much more. Walk to shopping and dining.
3414 SW 7TH LN
CAPE CORAL, FL 33991
$589,900 Listing # 219027621
AMAZING PROPERTY!! Watch the manatee play as you enjoy the breathtaking views over the Massey Basin. This home has a composite dock for your boat that you can pilot out to the Gulf of Mexico with no bridges or locks!!! This is what Florida living is all about, as you watch the diamonds sparkle on the water. The beautiful pool and spa have both solar and electric heat. The home has stylish tile on the diagonal throughout and in the lanai. The kitchen has granite and there is even a fireplace for those cool nights. The vaulted ceilings in the living area and master suite have eye catching, accent beams. The master suite has a large walk-in closet that has been designed for organizing your personal things. All this and walking distance to Joe Stonis park which provides activities ranging from fitness to tennis and pickle ball. You can either boat or drive over to Matlacha for all the great restaurants and nightlife. This is a once in a lifetime opportunity to get almost a half an acre of land with direct access on the water.
Call Lenora for maps and information on Cape Coral and Fort Myers!
Lenora Marshall EXP Realty LLC 239-898-0484
www.lenoramarshall.com
THINK SPRING~LIVE VERMONT
VERMONT OASIS ON 10 LUSH ACRES
VT RESTORED FARMHOUSE
Enjoy captivating views of the Green Mountains from this architectural designed English Cottage-style home. Exquisite craftsmanship throughout the main home with three marble faced fireplaces, and first floor master suite. Huge entertainment barn, tennis courts, and an exquisite pool and cabana. Minutes to Killington Ski area. RUTLAND TOWN, VT | $2,250,000 | MLS#4705360
Years were spent making this a family compound with tennis court, and in-ground pool added for summer fun. Private 6.15 acres of land bordering a brook, lush landscaping, and perennial gardens make this a private oasis. Convenient Rutland Town location, minutes to Killington Ski area, Rutland Regional Hospital, and many services. RUTLAND TOWN, VT | $795,000 | MLS#4708736
PARADISE AWAITS YOU
LIKE NEW CLASSIC COLONIAL STYLE HOME
INCREDIBLE PRICE!
This architectural designed, 3,690 square foot custom-built year round Lake Bomoseen home being offered for sale for the first time is one of the few special landmark locations available on the lake. Enjoy 1.8 acres of hard to find level land, 220 feet of waterfront, and a private cove on the east shore. The view of glistening water is captivating! CASTLETON, VT | $1,189,000 | MLS#4688154
Built in 2007 featuring tasteful upgrades throughout and sitting proud up on a knoll and overlooking a mountain view and babbling brook is what it’s all about! Enjoy light filled rooms, glorious views and meticulously maintainance. Stunning upscale kitchen and adjacent family room great for gatherings. Minutes to Killington Ski area. CHITTENDEN, VT | 299,500 | MLS#4743030
Majestic custom Colonial-style home nestled on a private 2.14 acres with a graceful circular driveway. This 4/5 bedroom home features 9 foot ceilings, extensive moldings, and beautiful cherry-wood flooring throughout. Welcoming front foyer with winding staircase and chandelier! Minutes to Killington Ski area and the lake region! MENDON, VT | $485,000 | MLS#4706445
MAKE THIS HOME YOURS Enjoy your own private gated entrance and winding landscaped driveway to your handsome white oak timber framed home with Vermont mountain and valley views. Impressive formal entrance opening into the main living space. 10 lush acres in a small active community near Lake Champlain. Priced to sell. BENSON, VT | $469,000 | MLS#4744732
FREDDIE ANN BOHLIG 85 North Main Street | Rutland, VT Cell: 802.353.1804 FreddieAnn.Bohlig@FourSeasonsSIR.com FreddieAnnBohlig.FourSeasonsSIR.com
FourSeasonsSIR.com Each Office is Independently Owned and Operated.
REAL ESTATE & YOUR HOME
SPOTLIGHT
7 Harrison ŠAri Burling and Scott Frances
DXA STUDIO By A. P. Connolly
XA studio is an award-winning design practice that provides a rare balance of expertly crafted design with technical proficiency. Believing in the power of architecture to positively influence the lives of all that engage it, DXA focuses on authenticity, sustainability and innovation in all their projects. Established in 2011 by Wayne Norbeck and Jordan Rogove, DXA’s expertise spans the full spectrum of design services and project categories including multi-family and single family residential, commercial, institutional and hotel design. In-depth research and analysis happen prior to design, identifying opportunities to push boundaries and integrate technological advances in building materials, construction, and sustainable strategies. By capitalizing on these discoveries, the site, program and unique opportunities of each project, DXA produces creative solutions and distinctive design work that consistently outperforms expectations.
Jordan Rogove and Wayne Norbeck
MAY 2019 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 65
WINNING DESIGNS
Interior Design magazine listed DXA among the top ten most influential firms in New York in their 2019 Power Grid. Several of the firm’s projects have been recognized in The Architect’s Newspaper, most notably, 14 White and a WWI Memorial competition entry as Best of Unbuilt Projects as well as 100 Barclay for Best Restoration & Preservation. In 2018, the studio was invited to create an installation for the Venice Biennale. This year, DXA studio was awarded Grand Prize by Metals in Construction Magazine for their innovative design of a New Urban Pathway connecting the High Line at Hudson Yards to the historic repurposed Moynihan Train Hall. In its eight years of success, the firm’s projects have included the now completed 280 St. Marks in Brooklyn, an 80,000 squarefoot multi-family residential building; Essex Crossing, a 160,000 square-foot residential project in the Lower East Side; and 7 Harrison a luxury condo building in Tribeca. DXA’s work currently under construction includes the 300,000 square foot HAP 8 condo and rental towers in Chelsea, a multi-phase development in Astoria, the Mt. Pleasant Church conversion, a 75,000 square-foot condo building on the Upper West Side, and a new headquarters for a prominent tech company in the East Village.
©Brad Dickson
West End Residences ©Redundant Pixel Studios
THE VISION CONTINUES
It’s only the beginning for the innovative team at DXA. Presently, the studio is developing a 144-unit residence in Harlem, a renovation of a historic Brooklyn brewery, and four ground up, single-family townhouses for private clients ranging from 5,000 to 15,000 square feet. Among the most noteworthy projects currently being designed, the vertical commercial enlargement of the landmarked 831 Broadway will pay homage to its former resident artist, Willem de Kooning, and his fellow Abstract Expressionist painters. Geared toward efficient New York apartments, DXA studio has designed and guided the fabrication of a modern furniture line. DXA also has a specific design and planning experience in sustainable and health-focused non-profit projects including a community in Zambia, malaria prevention through specialized housing in Namibia, and housing in St. Marc, Haiti through an award-winning international design competition and collaborations with the Clinton Health Access Initiative and The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.
Passive House Backyard with Grill ©Florian Holzer
66 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | MAY 2019
Whether big or small, client projects begin with an open exchange of ideas and full architect-client collaboration. The client’s program and desires, along with the complexities and context of the site are used to create a conceptual framework. From this process, a design of distinctive identity, clarity, and ingenuity is created. For more information on DXA studio, visit dxastudio.com. •
Saddle River, NJ
Palatial Masterpiece
$14,975,000
One of a kind masterpiece on approx. 4 lush acres. Banquet dining, massive great room, multi-suite kitchen, solarium, award winning theater and wine cellar, multi-room master bedroom suite, boutique-style closet, indoor and outdoor pools, 7-car garage.
Saddle River, NJ
Elegant Young Manor
$6,850,000
Saddle River, NJ
Exquisite custom built brick manor situated at the end of a cul de sac on one of the most sought after streets in Saddle River. Over 2.5 manicured acres offering a lagoon pool with waterfalls, lighted tennis court and large veranda. 4-car garage.
6.5 Acre Country Estate
$6,995,000
17,000 square foot, 6.5 acre country estate, custom built for current owner. State-of-the-art Kuche Cucina kitchen, first floor master bedroom suite, indoor and outdoor pools, regulation lighted tennis court, generator and 6-car garage.
EQUESTRIAN ESTATE Saddle River, NJ
Decorater's Showplace
$2,425,000
Mahwah, NJ 23+ Acre Riverfront Equestrian Estate $4,695,000 5 bedroom Hampton’s style shingle & stone masterpiece offers
Elegant 2000’s built manor styled residence in move-in condition with beautiful woodworking throughout. High ceilings, gourmet kitchen, media and gym in lower level. Inground heated gunite pool, 3-car garage. Very private setting.
high volume & expansive views. The 9-stall barn opens to a limestone jumping area, paddocks & trails along the river. Massive artist’s loft. Infinity pool & more!
Every Home is Special to Us. OFFICE
VICKI GAILY REALTOR-ASSOCIATE®
201 934-7111 • CELL 201 390-5880
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FOUNDER
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MARKETING DIRECTOR
VGAILY@SPECIALPROPERTIES.COM • SPECIALPROPERTIES.COM FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM & FACEBOOK: @SPECIALPROPERTIESNJ •
Information deemed reliable but subject to errors and omissions.
REAL ESTATE & YOUR HOME
THE ORIGINAL “HORD”ERS
THIS HUSBAND & WIFE TEAM WILL TRANSFORM YOUR LIFE By Bailey Beckett
hat seems like an easy, natural habit for your life— organizing your home and office—has turned into a billion dollar business because of one truth: it’s harder than it looks. After all, consumers—i.e., all of us—consume. We like adding things, whether it’s clothes, shoes, books, bedding—and not deleting. Enter Fillip and Jamie Hord, a husband and wife team in New York who have combined her type A tendencies and his entrepreneurial streak into Horderly, one of the fastest growing organizing firms in the Tristate area. They concentrate on both homes and offices, and help their customers “edit” their lives. Jamie’s simple, clean aesthetic brings air, color and life into any setting. And their friendly, Midwest charm—they are both from Ohio—is infectious. These are people you want in your home, however embarrassing it is. New York Lifestyles talked to Jamie about their business and the question: is less really more? In one sentence what is Horderly? We are a professional home organizing company helping clients declutter, organize, create systems and maximize space in any and all areas in their home. What is your design philosophy? I love “sense of clarity” with your belongings because it’s so true: knowing everything that you have and exactly where it belongs is key. Everything should have a home. What is your differential? Both my husband and I are from Ohio, and bringing our Midwestern calmness and kindness into our clients’ homes is our differentiator. We teach our team of organizers that we play a lot of roles when working with clients and we need to be their best friend, therapist, teacher and interior designer all at once. Not only do we organize homes, we transform lives. When did you discover this ability? I grew up organized… cleaning the house before my mother got home from work, organizing drawers when I was bored, etc. I believe it comes from my dad’s side of the family: my grandma was very organized, which then passed on to my dad who is a perfectionist. Are their health benefits to being organized? Yes! So many! You will literally feel ten times lighter after you declutter! Studies show that it leads you to eating better. Especially when you are organizing your fridge and pantry: you are keeping any old or perished food out resulting in less food poisoning/sickness. Clutter is stress, so eliminating it makes you happier instantly. Less clutter also means less cleaning up, which means more time to do what you love. Organizing also helps you sleep better. If you make your bed every morning, you’ll sleep better at night and get more done during the day. Is there an emotional response to “decluttering” and getting rid of clothes and other items in your home? I emphasize to clients that it might be hard to get through the process of decluttering, but you have to keep an eye on what’s to come: how they are going to feel when we are done. I see a lot of clients try to do this on their own and become overwhelmed, thus leading to not finishing the project. Hiring a professional will keep the energy up, hold you accountable, and make the editing process a breeze. Sometimes simply asking “do you love it?” or “do you use it?” can make the answer “no” much easier. Some people don’t want to declutter because they have no idea what to do with the stuff that they are getting rid of. They don’t want to just throw away nice clothes and other items. They feel better knowing that they aren’t throwing away money, but passing along these items to people in need. Having Horderly there to refer helpful connections, distribute donations, and getting those items out of their house right away is worth a lot. • 68 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | MAY 2019
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HEALTH & WELLNESS
A DOSE OF REALITY By Peter M. Kalellis
hile aiming for the stars may be in our thoughts, let’s be realistic and not beat ourselves up with a superhuman delusion. Super humans are illusions meant to excite our senses and lead us into a fantasy world. Sure, we admire the rich and famous, movie celebrities, accomplished athletes, authors, and artists—they all appear elegant and happy. Does anyone know how they feel “off stage?” Can you or I live an exciting, successful, wealthy, super life as proclaimed in magazines and television? When we compare ourselves with others, usually we seek individuals who seem more gifted, more talented, more of everything. We wish to be like someone else, then feel bad because we don’t even come close. Simply put: We cannot be like anybody else. We can only be who we are—and that’s okay. Why not bank on our capabilities, talents, and God-given gifts? Think about this as you travel along the road of life: you are your own person and a worthy human being. And if someone in your path mistreats you, or tries to tear you down, understand these people project on you their mental conditions. At best avoid them for they can ruin your life.
SABOTAGING YOUR HAPPINESS
Julia Cameron in her book, The Artist’s Way, calls such people crazymakers. She describes them as charismatic, inventive, persuasive—and destructive. Whether they appear as your overbearing mother, your manic boss, your needy friend, or your stubborn spouse, the crazy-makers in your life share specific destructive patterns that make them poisonous playmates. Next time you catch yourself thinking, “She/he is driving me crazy!” ask yourself why are you sabotaging your happiness by being in that person’s presence. Your life is vital to you. Sure, others might give you advice or opinions; they might make suggestions, requests, or demands, or give you well-intentioned instructions. But remember nobody can choreograph your life. Naturally, dealing with a crazy-maker may often drive some to a therapist. They want a change in their life. They are not happy with themselves or their current life. Unhappy individuals may need to change how they think, feel, and behave. And for some, this could involve a significant person in their life, be it a lover, mate, spouse, or family member. Here lies a reality. Promises break like balloons; plans fall apart, love affairs carry no guarantees, married vows are violated. When a significant relationship breaks, an emotional setback is almost inevitable. We tend to think most of the past hurts that we have experienced. We hope that they have left with us some lessons of value. Certainly, it is emotionally beneficial when we can say goodbye to our past and let go of repressed feelings or thoughts of anger, criticism, judgment, and disappointment. 70 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | MAY 2019
RESPECT MAKES IT POSSIBLE
Sometimes we are disappointed in loving our spouse or caring for some intimate other. As years slip by, the realization we are all to a degree limited, inadequate, blemished, and dull comes to light. No matter how rich our personalities or attractive our bodies, none of us can indefinitely excite and generate novelty, sexual attraction, and psychological pleasure within a relationship or a marriage. Any connection or marriage is like a long trip, and there is bound to be some long, dull stretches. Another choice may be, not to travel with someone who expects you to be exciting all the time. But it is essential when disappointment occurs not to prolong it for long. Respect often makes it possible for us to remain in the marriage, or to continue an intimate relationship. Accepting the truth about who we are is a challenge that results in emotional growth and a better self-image. One of the best ways to gain accurate self-knowledge is to explore our current thoughts about ourselves. Upon awakening each morning, as we look in the mirror, what do we see or think of ourselves? Indeed, those thoughts precipitate feelings about who we are, and we move on to design our daily life. Asking, “Who am I?” is an important question. Can you give an honest answer? This is a challenge. While we might be aiming for the stars, we cannot reach them. Another of our realities is that we cannot be God. We are human. •
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HEALTH & WELLNESS
BRIGHT EYES
RESTORE, REJUVENATE AND LOOK 10 YEARS YOUNGER By Shana Ackerman
he eyelids are usually one of the first regions of the face to show signs of aging. When people enter mid- to late-thirties, the upper eyelids can develop a skin that hangs down, and the lower eyelids can build up fatty bags and dark circles, resulting in a tired appearance. Eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty) can effectively correct the changes many people experience as they age. According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, over 206,500 eyelid surgeries were performed in 2018. Restoring the youthful appearance of a person’s eyes can help define the cheeks, sustain the shape of the eyes, and reduce a tired appearance. New York Lifestyles spoke with nationally recognized, New York-based Board Certified Plastic Surgeon, Dr. B. Aviva Preminger about the blepharoplasty procedure. “When looking at the eyes, I always consider four features of the eye appearance: brow position, upper eyelids, lower eyelids, and the corners of the eyes,” says Dr. Preminger. “It is important to recognize all of the areas of the eyes because when people look at one another, they are not just looking at the upper or lower eyelids, the eyes are one of the first things they notice. “When performing eye rejuvenation surgery, I am restoring the youthful appearance of an individual. People come in, and they tell me that they have tired-appearing eyes,” explains Dr. Preminger, “that their upper eyelids look heavy. Patients are pleased with the results of their blepharoplasty. No one knows what they’ve had done, so when they go back to work, people say to them, ‘You look like you got some good rest.’ Patients feel good about themselves. They don’t look tired anymore. They feel rejuvenated.” Here’s what we learned from Dr. Preminger about eyelid surgery. What is blepharoplasty? Eyelid surgery medically referred to as a blepharoplasty, is a surgical procedure that will improve the appearance of the skin of the eyelids as well as fatty bags under the eyes. The surgery can be performed on the upper eyelids, lower eyelids, or both. If you want to improve your appearance, a blepharoplasty can restore the youthful appearance and rejuvenate the area surrounding the eyes. What conditions can a blepharoplasty treat? • Loose or sagging skin that creates folds or deforms the contour of the upper eyelid. • Fatty deposits that appear as puffiness or fatty bags below the eyelids. • Drooping lower eyelids that reveal whites of the eyes beneath the iris. • Excess skin and wrinkles of the lower eyelids. Who is a good candidate for blepharoplasty? • Nonsmokers. • Healthy individuals with no medical conditions that will impair healing. • Individuals with a positive outlook and realistic goals. • Individuals who do not have serious eye conditions. 72 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | MAY 2019
What should I expect when I have a blepharoplasty? Blepharoplasty is one of the most successful and satisfying operations in facial plastic surgery. Although you will continue to age naturally, the results of eyelid surgery are long lasting—often five to ten years. In most cases, you will see a dramatic change within two weeks, but it can take up to a year for the incision lines to fully refine. Following your blepharoplasty procedure, you can expect a significant improvement in your eyes’ appearance. Are there different versions of a blepharoplasty surgery? • Blepharoplasty can remove excess skin or fat from the upper or lower eyelids or both. • An upper eyelid blepharoplasty, sometimes called an eyelift, can elevate an upper eyelid margin, removing excess skin and reducing the droopy appearance. • A lower eye blepharoplasty is a reductive procedure to remove skin and fat to reduce under eye wrinkles, skin redundancy, and fat bulges. The lower eyelid procedure may be performed via an incision on the lower lid skin or wholly hidden on the inner surface of the lower eyelid which allows for no scar at all. Many people, however, benefit from doing both at the same time as it allows me to achieve the most balanced rejuvenation with just one recovery period. Depending on the extent of the surgery, the procedure can either be performed in my office under local anesthetic, as an outpatient procedure or using an anesthesia at the surgical center. What is the recovery process? After one week, most patients return to work. Within one to two weeks, most patients resume light exercise and after two to three weeks, more strenuous activity. Within one to two months, most of the swelling is completely resolved. Dr. Preminger
According to the American Society of Plastic surgeons, over 206,500 eyelid surgeries were performed in 2018.
What else should I know when looking to restore my youthful appearance and reduce my tired look? Injections of neurotoxins, such as Botox® or Dysport® and fillers, such as Restylane®, can help tighten sagging skin and smooth wrinkles and bags around the eyes. Neurotoxins weaken the muscles around the eyes, reducing or eliminating crow’s feet, giving you a youthful, refreshed look. Fillers can improve the hollowness or “tear trough” that forms below the lower eyelids. Another under-eye filler option for the hollow appearance that can form under the eyes: an individual’s own fat. I can take the fat from an area a patient has excess, such as under the chin or on the thighs, and inject it into the under-eye area. Another approach I like to use is to reposition the fat from the bulging area to fill the hollow tear trough. Fat-grafting is less predictable than filler because the body will resorb some of it and the patient can look under-corrected. However, the fat that stays will remain for many years. The crepey lower eyelid skin can also be improved by laser resurfacing. Often, I like to combine an internal approach to addressing the bulging fat of the lower eyelid with laser resurfacing to treat the wrinkled skin. This way, there is no visible scar at all on the lower lid. One other important thing to consider is the brow. Part of the sagging skin of the upper eyelid is often a combination of the loose/extra upper eyelid skin and descent or falling of the eyebrows. Plastic surgeons used to have to perform brow lifts through the forehead, but these days I perform most of my brow lifts and suspensions via the upper eyelid incision with no added scar or recovery! Naturally, your eyes will continue to age as time goes on. To maintain your results, I always recommend a healthy skincare routine including cosmeceutical products and maintenance procedures, such as Botox® or Dysport®. For more information on B. Aviva Preminger, M.D., F.A.C.S. (969 Park Avenue, Suite 1E; 212-706-1900), visit premingermd.com. • MAY 2019 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 73
HEALTH & WELLNESS
WE ARE WHAT WE EAT HOW TO ACHIEVE OVERALL HEALTH By Dr. Daryl Gioffre, Nutritionist
ippocrates is one of the most distinguished figures in the history of medicine and many of his findings hold true today. One quote of his in particular, “All disease begins in the gut,” might be one of the most important things he said. Although I would argue that all diseases originate on your plate, Hippocrates looked to the gut as the cause of many diseases and over time, modern day physicians and scientists have proved his proclamation correct. When you are pumping acidic foods into you your body such as sugar, grains, dairy, artificial sweeteners, processed foods, and too much animal protein, the gut will become inflamed. Did you know that 80 percent of your immune system and 80 percent of your nervous system lives in your digestive tract? Proper digestive health is critical to your overall health and energy. The gut becomes inflamed due to toxins we take into our body. Signs of inflammation in the gut aren’t limited to stomach problems, but can include Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), constipation, bloating, diarrhea, gas, reflux, and leaky gut. Chronic issues such as fatigue, weight gain, joint pain, skin issues, and other illness can be traced back to acidity and inflammation, which is the smoking gun that is causing the issues. Eating unhealthy foods leads to acid in the body and causes inflammation, which can increase the risk of diabetes, heart disease, cancer, obesity, and even Alzheimer’s Disease!
LEAKY GUT SYNDROME Today, a major problem some 95 percent of Americans (if not more based on my Live Blood Cell Analysis research) are facing is called leaky gut syndrome. This occurs when the lining of the digestive tract is damaged, and increasingly, toxins and harmful substances that are supposed to be making their way out of your body slip right back in. A once healthy gut, begins to be overtaken by unhealthy bacteria, which leads to a state called dysbiosis. These unhealthy bacteria create gas and noxious toxins that can lead to all kinds of problems such as reflux, stubborn weight gain, food allergies, slow metabolism, thyroid disease, joint pain, fatigue or lack of energy, autoimmune disorders, headaches, constipation, irritable bowel syndrome, and skin conditions like acne and rosacea. Many foods are highly acidic and lead to leaky gut and acid in the body. Gluten is a major force behind leaky gut syndrome; it’s so acidic that it creates openings (more like craters) in the tight junctions of the gut. As a result, the body’s natural defenses can’t stop acid from getting into the bloodstream. What happens with leaky gut is that the problem spirals downward. As nutrients don’t get properly absorbed from food, acid and inflammation increasingly builds up. If your body isn’t processing nutrients properly, you could be eating healthy but someone eating a Big Mac and fries could be healthier than you (well, not really but you get my point!). To compound the problem, many Americans have a leaky gut and don’t know it. Many symptoms of a leaky gut are treated as diseases or conditions rather than a symptom of leaky gut. For example, gluten and dairy sensitivities are the top signs that the there is an issue with the gut, as are other food allergies and intolerances. If the intestines are leaking toxins, the body’s immune system starts working overtime, producing antibodies to foods and causing a reaction when the food is consumed. This can ultimately lead to other gastrointestinal illnesses such as Irritable Bowel Syndrome, Colitis, or Crohn’s Disease, almost always are traced to a leaky gut. Other signs that there is a problem in the gut are autoimmune diseases or disorders. Illnesses such as Rheumatoid Arthritis, Hashimotos Thyroiditis, and Fibromyalgia all have been tied to leaky gut syndrome as well. Not to mention, general fatigue and skin problems are often based on an imbalance in the gut. 74 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | MAY 2019
ABOUT DR. GIOFFRE Dr. Daryl Gioffre, author of the best-selling Get Off Your Acid: 7 Steps in 7 Day to Lose Weight, Fight Inflammation, and Reclaim Your Health is the creator of the Alkamind Cleanse and longevity expert who specializes in the alkaline/keto diets. A former sugar addict turned health machine, Dr. Gioffre knows firsthand what it takes to overcome adversity and challenges in your health. His specialty is uncovering the root causes of inflammation and chronic illness. He is also a chiropractor, health coach, certified raw food chef, ultra-marathoner, and a passionate speaker, and educator, and has been featured in the docuseries on longevity called Live Longer Feel Better.
Teaching the young -Dr. Gioffre & son
THERE ARE SOLUTIONS
To know for sure if the problem is a leaky gut, there are tests. At the Gioffre Chiropractic Wellness Center, patients receive a live blood analysis to determine if yeast and other toxins have made their way into the blood stream.
Dr. Daryl Gioffre
The good news is inflammation and leaky gut can be corrected, by using my Weed/Seed/Feed approach. • Rule #1 is to weed out and remove any and all trigger foods. This includes refined grains, soy, rice and anything with gluten. Stay away from all dairy products. The dairy protein casein that hurts the digestive tract is even found in goat’s milk and sheep’s milk, so only use dairy alternatives like almond, hemp, and coconut milk. Perhaps the worst thing you can eat is sugar. Sugar is one of the most acidic substances on the planet and is just helping the bad bacteria in your digestive system, making a leaky gut worse. You’ll also want to avoid meat, anything that might have been produced using pesticides (choose organic), antibiotics, and even over the counter pain relievers. • Rule #2 is start to heal the gut and seed it with a combination of nutrientdense, alkaline foods and restorative supplements like good quality probiotics and the Alkamind Daily Greens, which contains 21 nutrient-rich super foods. Another supplement to add is one such as the Alkamind Daily Minerals that contains magnesium, which most Americans are deficient in and which can cause digestive problems. • Rule #3 is to incorporate a healthy, alkaline lifestyle and follow an ongoing regime; it will keep the body in balance and keep down inflammation. Eat healing alkaline foods instead. Add plenty of good healthy fats into your diet like hemp, chia, and flax seeds, as well as all coconut products. Foods rich in Omega-3 like wild-caught Pacific or Alaskan salmon also support your healing gut. You’ll also want to take a good Omega-3 Fatty Acid supplement, such as Alkamind Daily Omega-3. Low-sugar fruits like tomatoes, avocados, and citrus fruits other than oranges are the way to go while your gut is healing. Raw and steamed vegetables are a great source of healing nutrients, and soups made with homemade broths can be especially good for the gut. For more information on Dr. Daryl Gioffre, call 212-472-5558 or visit gioffrechiropractic.com or getoffyouracid.com. • MAY 2019 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 75
FOOD & DRINK
IL DIVO RESTAURANT AUTHENTIC ITALIAN FLAVORS ON THE UES By Anne Raso
he moment you step into the intimate yet glamorous atmosphere of the 50-seat Il Divo, you’ll realize that it is truly a unique place. The Hollywood Regency decor—which includes striped wallpaper, distinguished crystal chandeliers and dozens of framed photographs of Rudolph Valentino--immediately draws you in. There is no other eatery that resembles this quirky tribute to a 1920s screen legend save for owner Antonio Sinesi’s successful Milan eatery, Al Valentino. The authentic Italian food is still the draw, though—everything is so fresh. The mozzarella on the highly recommended eggplant parmigiana seems to be made only hours beforehand and the eggplant itself is thinly sliced (and probably the most tender you will ever have). The Beef Tenderloin comes stuffed with foie gras and even the sauce contains this luxury food. The list of fresh fish seems endless— there are more than a dozen types to choose from. And it goes without saying that the pasta is freshly made and served al dente. For those who like the simple things in life done well, the Spaghetti Pomodoro—with its ultra-fresh, tangy plum tomato sauce and freshly grated imported Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese—is truly something to be eaten slowly with every bite savored. (It’s so good that you might even want to close your eyes while eating it!)
A TRIBUTE TO VALENTINO Sinesi’s obsession with paying tribute to Rudolph Valentino in his eateries might be unusual, but the epitome of romantic leading men is actually hometown hero for the handsome restaurateur. He elaborates, “Valentino is considered the first Hollywood celebrity. He was extremely elegant, classic and charming and I have always admired him. But most of all, Valentino was originally from Castellaneta, a city in Puglia where my parents are from, too. So, even though I was born and raised in Milan, my heritage is rooted in the same southern region as Valentino.” While Il Divo serves fine Italian fare, it does not concentrate on food from any one region—and one of the cook staff ’s consultants is Michelin-starred chef Massimo Sola, formerly of Quattro Mori in Varese, Italy. “I wanted to bring to New Yorkers authentic Italian cuisine that satisfies all palates,” Sinesi tells New York Lifestyles. “Our menu is not based on a specific area of Italy. We offer recipes from all regions, because each one of them has such diverse and rich food traditions. This allows us to present a menu that is always different and can give our guests the feeling of being in Italy.”
BRINGING EXCITEMENT TO THE UES How did the restaurateur decide to open on a quiet corner of Upper East Side as opposed to a busier neighborhood like Midtown or Chelsea? Sinesi reveals, “The Upper East Side reminded me of the area in Milan where I have Al Valentino, my other restaurant. A high-end residential area, quiet but at the same time alive, where families go to dine together, and where I would like to end up serving different generations. In fact, at Al Valentino, I started serving grandparents, then their kids and their grandkids…they feel at home when they come to my restaurant and I hope with Il Divo to get an evergreen place, something that doesn’t follow fashions or trends, but that wants to become our customers’ extended family for years.”
Antonio Sinesi
76 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | MAY 2019
We asked Sinesi the difference between Al Valentino in Milan and Il Divo in New York since they are both “upscale Italian” and have the Valentino theme. The affable restaurateur reveals, “I tried to follow the same concept for both locations. The attention to the food is outstanding as is the décor. I took care of every single detail in designing both locations, with paintings and portraits dedicated to Rudolph Valentino and the 1920s era. Both restaurants want to make the customer feel right at home. The only difference I could think of is that Il Divo is a little smaller than Al Valentino, even though I prefer to say that it is ‘cozier.’”
ROOTS IN MILAN Sinesi has had many great moments in his career and will soon be bringing his children into the business. He regularly travels back and forth to Milan and tries to be as hands on as possible. Sinesi openly discussed the major highlights of his career with us: “The first one was probably in 1992 when I became manager for the first time at Ribot restaurant in Milan, followed by becoming owner of Il Primo Novecento restaurant in 1998. The ‘crowning achievement’ so far could be following my old dream of coming to the US and opening a restaurant in New York. All this would have not been possible if it wasn’t for the experience I had and for what I have learned at Savini in Milan, where I first started.” Executive chef Matteo Limoli (who came to Il Divo directly from the wildly popular Il Mulino in Tribeca) says that there are a lot of new items to look for in the months to come. He tells New York Lifestyles, “My team and I would like to try and push our kitchen a little more; we want to keep provoking our dishes, a goal that we had in mind since the beginning of this journey. We have in mind a different kind of menu for late spring and summer, always based on Italian traditions, of course. We want to work with every single ingredient and want to push each of their main features to the top: salty, sweet, bitter, etc.”
FARM TO TABLE PRODUCE Limoli adds that he often has vegans and vegetarians in mind when creating new dishes and takes pride in the freshness of Il Divo’s produce. He states, “We do (always) take into consideration the whole vegetarian and vegan world, and we also offer gluten free options without losing the Italian traditions and our idea of food service. We work closely with many farms around New York, especially ones in Pennsylvania. We want to get as many products as we can from local sources, but it is still a work in progress.” In a nutshell, Il Divo has it all—a truly unique and glamorous look, an intimate atmosphere, friendly, attentive staff and classic Italian cuisine with a sophisticated flair. Whole families are welcome and there is truly something for even the most persnickety eater in your pack. Il Divo promises an experience fit for a movie star! For more information on Il Divo, visit ildivo.restaurant. Reservations are strongly recommended. • MAY 2019 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 77
FOOD & DRINK
MOTHER’S DAY BRUNCH By Natasha Bazika
his year, show Mom your appreciation and love by taking her out to a decadent brunch— New York style! Even better, now that the days are warming up al fresco dining is in full swing, which means brunch is the perfect way to gather family and friends to celebrate the day. We scoured the concrete jungle to bring you six decadent brunches your mom will love this May 12th. CAFÉ BOULUD The famed establishment by Daniel Boulud is the indulgence your mom deserves and the family setting she will love. Situated in the glamorous Upper East Side neighborhood—just steps away from Central Park—this Michelin-starred restaurant serves up a high-end French fare in a chic setting. The special three-course Mother’s Day brunch menu encompasses a range of options under each course. For the first course, delight your taste buds with Oysters on the Half Shell, English Pea Soup, or Yellowtail Tartare. Then dive into a delectable Maine Peekytoe Crab and Lobster Benedict or Crispy Duck Breast with Foie Gras for the main course. And of course, the piece de résistance: Molten Chocolate Cake or a Parisian Flan will complete this special occasion. (Order more than one—we don’t judge.) In addition to indoor seating, the outdoor terrace sits along the sidewalk and will make you feel like you’re dining in a Parisian café on the streets of Paris. Info: cafeboulud.com. Boulud Sud
78 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | MAY 2019
Cafe Boulud
Prefer the West Side? Then make reservations at sister restaurant Boulud Sud which draws its inspiration from the Mediterranean, including France’s Côte d’Azure, Spain, Italy, Greece, Morocco, Tunisia, Lebanon and beyond. Executive Chef Ulises Olmos and Executive Pastry Chef Daniel Kleinhandler will create a sensational menu: Start with house- made Taramasalata or Arabic Lamb Flatbread. Then move to the main course with items such as Three-Egg Frittata, Brioche French Toast, Grilled Sea Bass or Octopus a la plancha. Then to top it all off, there are many great options, including Grapefruit Givre, Chocolate Gateau, and house-made Crèmes Glacées. Info: bouludsud.com.
ELÉA It’s the newest addition to the Upper West Side’s restaurant scene and offers a light-filled experience reminiscent of a Greek getaway, complimented by authentic Mediterranean fare. This year, Eléa is launching its first-ever brunch, which is perfect for Mother’s Day and comes with a complimentary glass of Prosecco for all moms. Start with a savory or sweet Greek breakfast pastry like the Spanakopita or Karadopita muffin or if you’re looking to indulge the market oysters are show-stopping. For the main course, there is much to choose from including a traditional Eggs Benedict, served with ham or smoked salmon on an English muffin topped with hollandaise sauce. The Greek style Shakshuka is all you could want from true Greek cuisine, however, the Lamb Burger Royale or Lavraki are also great options. As with any brunch, Bellini’s are a staple, and Eléa serves up daily fresh squeezed juices in all brunch beverages, which includes Bloody Mary, Screwdriver, the beloved Mimosa. Finish off with the Baklava or Karadopita for dessert. Info:eleanyc.com.
Elea
AI FIORI With an excellent Italian-French menu, plus regional wines, this popular restaurant is situated on the second floor of the Langham Hotel on Fifth Avenue. Expect to taste your way through handmade pasta with fresh and seasonal ingredients. Dishes will include Crudo e Caviale with American Sturgeon Caviar, and Spaghetti with Blue Crab. Ai Fiori received three stars from The New York Times as well as Michelin star recognition the past several years. Info: aifiorinyc.com.
Ai Fiore
KYMA FLATIRON What better way is there to celebrate mothers than with a stunning ode to the sun-drenched island of Mykonos. Kyma Flatiron’s menu and aesthetic centers around its many sun-kissed beaches. The 250seat bi-level whitewashed space is the perfect background for a chic and sophisticated brunch. Upon arrival, all moms will receive a complimentary glass of Prosecco. As for the menu, breakfast is always a popular option and includes two eggs any style, bacon, sausage, and Black-eyed Fasolada. They also serve Eggs Saganaki, Omelette Santorini guaranteed to satisfy any cravings you may have. The raw bar is great for sharing with the family, especially if you want to try different items such as lobster cocktail, oysters, shrimp cocktail or a large tower featuring all of the above and more. Do you have a health conscience mom? So do we, but don’t worry the salad options are all fresh and incorporate classic Greek style. From the simply grilled section, you can taste your way through the sea with options including Tiger Shrimp, Swordfish, Tsipoura, Pink Snapper and Black Sea Bass. Or jump on land and try traditional Lamb Chops or a 10-ounce Sirloin Steak. Let Kyma Flatiron do all the impressing and hard work while you get all the credit. Info: kymarestaurants.com.
Kyma ©Kyma Flatiron Irvington
IRVINGTON Located in the W Hotel Union Square is a bright farm-to-table experience serving up a Mediterraneaninfluenced menu of New American classics. In addition to their usual brunch menu, the industrial chic establishment will be offering a few Mother’s Day specials, which includes Coconut-Dipped French Toast, House-Cured Salmon, and House-Made Pea and Ricotta Ravioli. Are you looking for that eggscellent protein hit? The eggs section is packed with cage-free eggs any style. They also have brick oven pizzas, mains with smoked salmon and burgers, or for the sweet tooth in you, eat all the Buttermilk pancakes, Whole Wheat Waffles, or Croissants your heart can desire. Info: irvingtonnyc.com. •
MAY 2019 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 79
FOOD & DRINK
WILD FOR WILDE
NOMAD GOES MAD FOR THIS RESTAURANT/BAR By Adam Morgan
t’s only natural Oscar Wilde is housed in the former NYC’s Bureau of Prohibition headquarters. The booze-infused uber boite is an all-hours delight, brimming with classic cocktails and inspired new ones, jovial vibe, time traveling décor and a hearty menu that leaves no one hungry. The ghost of its namesake, the famed Irish poet and playwright, is no doubt at a bar stool in mid-imbibe. “Everything in moderation, including moderation,” he famously said. Just not here. Opened in 2017, Oscar Wilde—the restaurant, not the boozy scribe—is a visual, gastronomic and liquid courage roller coaster all in one. It’s an unabashed celebration of the beauty, decadence, and duplicity that marked his prose. The restaurant is most famous for housing New York’s longest, continuous bar—measuring 118.5 feet long, it’s almost enough space to accommodate its nightly patrons. Almost. Oscar Wilde has become the place for cocktails and work tales. The after-hours crowd is bountiful and boisterous, indulging in office gossip and Cemetery Gates (with Old Overholt Rye, Peach Combier, Amoro Nonino and Angostura bitters), not to mention signature drinks like Smokey Wilde Dove (with El Silencio Mezcal, Cocchi Americano, grapefruit lime, honey and Peychaud’s bitters), and Flower of Love (with Destilador Resposado, elderflower, El Silencio Mezcal, Luxardo Maraschino and Thai chili ). In fact, there are 300 different spirits for more spirited patrons. “Work,” Wilde once quipped, “is the curse of the working class.” Well then suit up, sippers! The Celtic-inspired food menu is dominated by contemporary favorites, like Boxty (an Irish potato pancake with smoked trout, tobiko, and maple syrup ), Scotch Egg (with white bean, quinoa ragout and fine herbs), Shephard’s Pie (with ground lamb, root vegetables, broiled mashed potatoes), Lamb Sliders (with seasoned lamb, house-made pickles, goat cheese, harissa aioli), and, yes, the Wilde Burger (with Guinness Cheese, fermented cabbage on a potato bun) and a side of frites and Faroe Islands Salmon, made with parsnip purée. “I can’t stand people who don’t take food seriously,” said Wilde. He’d be proud: portions are heavy, delicious and hearty.
Oscar Wilde NYC ©Simmer Group
Private Event Room at Oscar Wilde NYC ©Simmer Group
A JOURNEY THROUGH TIME What most marks Oscar Wilde is its odd-biance. It makes no sense, in the best possible way. It’s a trippy trip through time, designed with an impeccable grasp on curation and an insane perspective of color, light and space. It’s a mental journey through time and country. Witness its 1884 French fireplace, acquired on Bond St. from Bonhams and Phillips Auctioneers… 1884 grandfather clock from England… porcelain entrance from Gosford Castle… original wood-paneling from Hope Castle… dining room doors from Argentina during WWII. Even its antique clocks—all 26!— are set to another era: specifically, 1:50 pm, the time of Oscar Wilde’s death. Time is definitely on this restaurant’s side. For more information on Oscar Wilde, visit oscarwildenyc.com. •
80 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | MAY 2019
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ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
ON STAGE
Cast of Tootsie The Musical
TOOTSIE THE MUSICAL By Lori Simmons Zelenko
ronically, when Dustin Hoffman (as Michael Dorsey) played the seriously annoying out of work actor who transformed himself into Dorothy Michaels, a working actress, no one was talking about #metoo. In fact, calling a woman “tootsie” wasn’t so unusual, after all the expression dates from 1905 and it surely was not out of date when the movie Tootsie was made. And indeed, Dorothy was treated on set as “tootsie” long before Harvey Weinstein made headlines. Today, Tootsie, the movie, is a Broadway show, a musical based of course, on the film conceived so brilliantly by Larry Gelbart and Don McGuire. Tootsie resonated then—it earned 10 Academy Award nominations in 1982 and made $177 million—and so relevantly resonates now. Reimagined as a musical, energizing Broadway audiences with not only terrific music (the score by David Yazbek, The Band’s Visit) is a subtle but sexy nod to the 80s but also with a story that combines arrogance and empathy with clever wit, taking the narrative into the present day and out of TV land moving it literally, on to Broadway. The theme is about identity, self-exploration, and the craft of acting—and yes, how this struggle is realized by an out of work actor Santino Fontana (Frozen the Disney movie) who—out of desperation—reinvents himself as woman and comes close to earning everything he ever wanted. At the end of the day, who doesn’t want to believe that when they are looking at the bottom of the barrel so to speak, there is nowhere to go but up? Even if climbing up and out takes a commitment that’s more than a little unorthodox. 82 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | MAY 2019
Santino Fontana as Michael Dorsey & Dorothy Michaels
STRONGER, BETTER, SMARTER So the question is, who is Dorothy Michaels? Well, there is no doubting her talent and her in-your-face honesty, but what makes her special is how she inspires everyone in her circle to be stronger, better, smarter. She’s as good as a man being a woman can ever be. Even though Michael Dorsey might be willing to do anything for a job—even if it means playing way against type—he never loses the integrity that made him so difficult to deal with in the first place as an out of work actor. But like the process of acting itself, being a man playing a woman leads to surprising revelations (even personally, as Santino Fontana’s wife says, the new empathy coming from this part is definitely a reward). As they say in show biz, the hardest part isn’t getting to the top... it’s keeping up the act.
LIVING THE DREAM Tootsie The Musical is at its heart an insider’s look at what it takes to be an actor: the desperation that fuels the craft, the insecurity that comes from being at the mercy of autocratic decision-makers who can’t consistently recognize talent though they do recognize victims, the need to pacify ogres who have no idea of normal boundaries, the pressure to slavishly worship to get a gig. As Larry Gelbart and Don McGuire originally conceived the film and as the musical reveals, actors are hooked, performing is their heroin, just as it lifts them to great heights so can the quest destroy. Their compulsion to perform is so great that nothing else makes them happy. And some, the ones that sustain the hardships and through will as well as talent rise to the top, do encourage us to suspend disbelief. We see them transform themselves like Michael Dorsey into a character that as Santino Fontana says, “is so desperate he’s not thinking even those two steps ahead.” It’s not that he wants to be a woman, he just wants a job. He’s determined to live his dream, even if it has to be as a man pretending to be a woman.
Artfully Tootsie The Musical, written by Robert Horn (his experience includes writing for Bette Midler so you know he’s no stranger to camp) makes us laugh, we deliciously savor the craziness of the characters, watching the deception the extraordinary Santino Fontana puts across as he becomes Dorothy Michaels and invites us to believe in him as her. It seems only natural that we fall in love with him as her too, joining the lovely Lilli Cooper (as Julie) and the six-packed reality star Max (John Behlmann). Sarah Stiles as Michael Dorsey’s wacky, vulnerable ex-girlfriend, and Reg Rogers as the sexist director Ron Carlisle whose patience is so tried by Dorsey’s self-involved insistence on perfection that we almost feel sorry for him, bring a fresh currency to an exceptional cast. Eight-time Tony nominee and Olivier Award winner Scott Ellis directs this winning show with sets by David Rockwell. The contemporary choreography by Denis Jones makes fun of Broadway tradition as it keeps this wonderfully engaging show standing tall in its high heels. For more information on Tootsie The Musical (at Marquis Theatre 210 West 46th Street), visit tootsiemusical.com. • MAY 2019 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 83
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
The cast of Be More Chill. ©Maria Baranova
BROADWAY: BEHIND THE SCENES BE MORE CHILL’S STEPHANIE HSU By Ellis Nassour
e More Chill is about a teenage geek possessed with becoming popular, portrayed by Will Roland, who many will recall from his Broadway debut in Dear Evan Hansen as Evan’s friend Jared. Chill premiered in 2015 at Red Bank, NJ’s 350-seat not-for-profit Two River Theatre (celebrating its 25th anniversary), where its cast recording not only became a Billboard Top-10 album, but also an Internet sensation. An enthusiastic group of 30-plus investors did a seven-week test Off Broadway last summer. Broadway producers took notice of the response, and what began as a quirky, little show has become a mainstream hit—happily with its fabulous cast intact. Now, a film adaptation is in the works. One of its stars is the sublimely-talented young Asian comedienne Stephanie Hsu, who made her Broadway debut in 2017 as Karen the Computer in the Tonynominated SpongeBob SquarePants, which also garnered a cult following. “I am so fortunate to have been on this incredible journey, one that I never saw coming,” beams Stephanie, who portrays Christine, a high school free spirit who’s happiest when she’s rehearsing musicals. “When we debuted the musical at Two River, we understood how fun and joyous it was, but none of us thought about the legions the show impacted. Along the way, they’ve made incredible efforts to deepen the characters, and certainly my role. Christine has really developed. I point to the denim jacket I wear. At Two River, it was a plain jacket. Now, it’s loaded with all manner of patches. Christine has become a stronger totem of impassioned beliefs!” 84 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | MAY 2019
Stephanie Hsu ©Jenny Anderson
FROM LA TO NYC Stephanie, who’s 26, is an LA gal. Her background of being raised by her Chinese mother, who immigrated to Taiwan, and then was sent to the States for her education, “is important because it makes people ask about the culture and history.” She started doing musicals in high school “because I wanted to work with a number of older people who I called my guardian angels and who kept telling me, ‘You should try out for this show.’ I said, ‘Okay!’ When I was a sophomore, a senior said, ‘You can study this in college.’ I didn’t know that. I said, ‘Okay!’” And she did, at New York University’s Tisch School of the Arts. That soon led to workshops and Off Broadway with Ars Nova and the Public Theatre; and regionally with Harvard’s Tony-winning A.R.T. (American Repertory Theater), and MA’s Williamstown Theatre. Stephanie has also been equally at home in countless TV shows since 2009. Her first series was doing three seasons of Hulu’s acclaimed 2017 drama, The Path, as Joy opposite Hugh Dancy and Aaron Paul. “Shooting in New York was exciting,” explains Stephanie, “because so many New York theater actors were involved.” They included Tony winners Brian Stokes, Mitchell and Adriane Lenox, Tony nominee Raúl Esparza, and Tony nominee and Oscar winner Kathleen Turner. She never felt her Asian background made it difficult to break into theater. One of her strongest mentors has been Liz Swados, director, composer, and Tony-nominated writer. “I was one among the many who were ‘Liz’s kids.’ She wasn’t a huge fan of corporate art, so I wasn’t thinking Broadway. That may have had to do with not knowing where my place in it was. Of course, I never thought of the concept of originating a Broadway role, which I’ve now done twice.”
ENJOYING THE RIDE Another mentor was director Tina Landau, with whom she worked during the nine years of SpongeBob SquarePants’ development. “She’s a visionary. I would do anything with and for her. What she did with SpongeBob was nothing short of brilliant.” Speaking of that show, Stephanie relates, “Even at the first table read in 2012 for SpongeBob, I knew it was something special, but I never thought, ‘We’re going to Broadway. It was completely unexpected.’ I was a person in the room, whom Tina kept asking back, and I was enjoying myself. It wasn’t a goal I was striving for. “I really trust the universe in that way,” she adds. “Be More Chill is a perfect example of when it’s time, it’s time—when it’s your time, it’s your job. This industry is really crazy and part of what can make you feel more crazy is the unmet expectations. I’m always practicing and enjoying the ride, surrounded by amazing artists and directors. I’m so lucky!” Stephanie is quite the high-energy performer and in Be More Chill she has plenty of competition in the cast of 10. To no one’s surprise, she more than holds her own, even bringing down the house with her comic antics and show-stopping number “I Love Play Rehearsal” and “A Guy That I’d Kinda Be Into.”
A WILD & WEIRD SHOW
Stephanie Hsu ©Jenny Anderson
She describes Be More Chill as “this rambunctious, wild, weird show.” As was the case with SpongeBob, the show is getting a good number of first-time theatergoers and, states Stephanie, “that is such an honor. Recently, students have been trying to bring about change following so many tragedies. There’s also been much written about inclusiveness and diversity.” Stephanie tells of the fan mail the cast receives. “It’s quite a blessing to be in a show with the type of response we’re receiving, but it’s also overwhelming. These young audiences look up to us. They handwrite beautiful letters of how the show has helped them through times of sorrow or difficulty. They give us fuel for the fire we try to create onstage. And, no, I haven’t gotten any proposals. Yet!” Be More Chill is Stephanie and her cast members’ way to give back “at a time when we’re asking one another to step up for each other. They give us so much, we want to please. While we have fun, you never forget your goal. It’s not always easy to have the sort of energy to give so much, but we try to give a true gift to our audiences and fan base.”
Stephanie Hsu and Will Roland In Be More Chill. ©Maria Baranova
In discussions with director Stephen Bracket, Stephanie once told him, “I want to make sure we’re creating a strong female character we can be proud of.” She says, “They’re special roles that can empower young people to plug into their own power. When I was younger, I didn’t think I had a voice. I didn’t think my voice was valid because that wasn’t the culture around me. It’s amazing how theater can change that.” For tickets and more information on Be More Chill, visit bemorechillmusical.com. • MAY 2019 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 85
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
ON THE BIG SCREEN By Jenny Peters
FAMILY FUN ALADDIN Rated: PG Disney Studios continues its wildly successful animation to live action transition with Aladdin, complete with all the characters and songs from their 1992 blockbuster. This time, the big blue genie is played by Will Smith, with Mena Massoud taking the title role, the lovely Naomi Scott as Jasmine and Marwan Kenzari rounding out the main cast as Jafar. If the story seems familiar, it is; but director Guy Ritchie (Sherlock Holmes) adds lots of wild chases and other personal stamps to this oft-told tale. GODZILLA: KING OF THE MONSTERS Rated: PG-13 When Godzilla roars, fans run to the movies. At least that’s what Warner Bros. is counting on, as this newest iteration of the classic Japanese monster arrives on the big screen. This time out, the humongous dinosaurlike mutant creature has joined forces with a bunch of other big monsters from this ongoing series that began with the first flick in 1954. So look for Mothra, Rodan and Ghidorah, too, as stars Millie Bobby Brown, Ken Watanabe, Vera Farmiga and Sally Hawkins try to add a little gravitas to this sci-fi extravaganza of special effects. POKEMON DETECTIVE PIKACHU Rated: PG Pikachu, the Pokemon character that everyone adores, comes to his first live-action movie as a detective (with his voice created by Ryan Reynolds). This actionpacked adventure races across the eye-popping ultramodern metropolis called Ryme City, as more Pokemon characters join in the search for Pikachu’s missing friend. The movie blends animated characters with reallife people, including actors Justice Smith and Kathryn Newton. Watch for Bill Nighy, Rita Ora and Ken Watanabe to turn up, too, before the mystery is solved.
FUNNY FEMALES LONG SHOT Rated: R Oscar-winner Charlize Theron joins forces with Seth Rogen in this wigged-out flick about a high-powered woman running for United States president and her unorthodox screenwriter— who also happens to be the grown-up version of the kid she used to babysit. As this dynamic duo reach for the power and prestige that comes with running America, lots of lunatic moments ensue. And believe it or not, there’s even some romance thrown in. Andy Serkis, Alexander Skarsgard, Ravi Patel and O’Shea Jackson Jr. costar in this silly comedy. 86 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | MAY 2019
POMS Not yet rated Who says older women can’t be cheerleaders? In this zany comedy, Diane Keaton leads a crew of retired ladies into becoming the greatest over-sixty cheerleading squad that the world has ever seen. And while the world might not be ready for their version of booty shaking and pyramid building, there’s plenty of laughs to be had as these grannies tick off one of their bucket list adventures. Rhea Perlman, Pam Grier, Jacki Weaver and Celia Weston co-star as Keaton’s pom-pom wielding squad, with Bruce McGill along for the fun. THE HUSTLE Rated: PG-13 Remember the classic conman comedy Dirty Rotten Scoundrels? That 1988 film starred Steve Martin and Michael Caine as two scoundrels who team up to pull off an elaborate job, with hilarious results. Now Hollywood is back with a new take on that old film, with a special twist. Now those crime-loving rogues are women, played by Anne Hathaway and Rebel Wilson, who team up to target a few men in their lives that deserve to be taken for a ride. Tim Blake Nelson and Alex Sharp co-star in this scam-filled comedy that hopes to be as beloved as the original.
FASCINATING FEATURES ALL IS TRUE Rated: PG-13 Shakespeare lovers will warm to this absorbing biography of the Bard, as envisioned by Kenneth Branagh, who both directs and stars in this completely charming and literate drama. The story joins Shakespeare’s life as it is coming toward the end, as the acclaimed playwright returns to Stratford-on-Avon to consider his life’s work. Judi Dench co-stars as his beleaguered wife, while Ian McKellan adds his touch to the gravitas of this personal imagination of Shakespeare’s final days. ROCKETMAN Not yet rated Elton John lovers will be fascinated by this authorized biography of the piano man’s rise to fame and fortune in the 60s and 70s, as he transformed from Reginald Dwight into the platform-wearing glitter king of rock-and-roll piano. Taron Egerton stars as Elton, with Jamie Bell taking on the role of Bernie Taupin, the man responsible for adding words to his inspired piano tunes. Styled as a musical fantasy, Rocketman may not follow the exactly true story of Elton and Bernie’s life, but they both seem to agree that this is the version that rocks (and rings) true to their memories of those golden days filled with great tunes and wild times. • MAY 2019 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 87
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
ON THE SMALL SCREEN By Jenny Peters
JUST-FOR-TV MOVIES DEADWOOD HBO It’s been more than 10 years since fans of Deadwood witnessed the last moments of the story of that wild South Dakota town, as the much-beloved HBO series aired its final episode. Along the way, the David Milchcreated Western series won eight Emmy Awards and captured the imagination of viewers across the globe. This follow-up movie finds saloon owner Al Swearengen (Ian McShane), Sheriff Seth Bullock (Timothy Olyphant), wealthy businessman William Randolph Hearst (Gerald McRaney) and rest of the peerless cast reunited for one more story, as South Dakota is poised to enter the U.S.A. in 1889 as its 40th state. Expect plenty of swearing, sex and gunplay in this exciting film sequel that also brings back Paula Malcolmson, Molly Parker, John Hawkes and Anna Gunn in the roles they originated back in 2004. GAME OF THRONES: THE LAST WATCH HBO Fans who cannot get enough of Game of Thrones will thrill to this behind-the-scenes documentary film that explores the making of the last season of the story of Westeros and its rival factions, all fighting for control of the Iron Throne. Get an insider’s look at the reality of creating the world’s most beloved fantasy, as filmmaker Jeanie Finlay brings her bird’s-eye view of the last year of production of the ambitious, Emmy Award-winning series. See how the world of the Seven Kingdoms was created one last time, but be warned: this film takes the magic out of the fantasy, so rabid fans might not want to know how places like King’s Landing and the Wall were actually created. WINE COUNTRY Netflix Funny females abound in this comic film about a gaggle of gals who head to wine country (Napa, to be exact) to celebrate one of the pack’s 50th birthday—and with Amy Poehler leading the pack, there’s bound to be some drunken shenanigans along the way. She stars and directs the flick, and is joined by Tina Fey, Maya Rudolph, Rachel Dratch, Cherry Jones, Maya Erskine and even Jason Schwartzman as this romp in the vines unfolds. Be sure to watch with a glass of fine Napa wine in hand!
LIMITED-EPISODE MINISERIES CATCH-22 Hulu George Clooney’s take on Catch-22, the classic anti-war novel by Joseph Heller, comes to the small screen in a six-episode miniseries that stars Christopher Abbott as Yossarian. Set in World War II, the series follows Yossarian’s quest to stay alive and even get himself out of the combat zone, all while bunking the surreal U.S. military, which is determined to keep him in service (and harm’s way) for the duration of the war. Clooney produces, directs and stars, along with Grant Heslov; Kyle Chandler, Hugh Laurie and Giancarlo Giannini costar in this dark comedy shot on location in Italy. 88 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | MAY 2019
GOOD OMENS Amazon With an all-star cast including David Tennant and Michael Sheen, Good Omens finally comes to life. The novel by Neil Gaiman and Terry Pratchett dates back to 1990, so it has definitely taken a while for this satirical vision of the end of the world to come to life. Now a six-part miniseries, it’s all about the coming of the antichrist and the attempts of two earth-dwelling otherworldly types—a demon and an angel—to stop him from ruining the world. Look for Benedict Cumberbatch, Jon Hamm and Miranda Richardson as players in this fun farce, and listen for Frances McDormand as the voice of God, too. THE HOT ZONE National Geographic Julianna Margulies stars in this disturbing six-part miniseries based on the true story of the Ebola virus outbreak that hit the United States in 1989. Taken from Richard Preston’s book of the same name, The Hot Zone follows Dr. Nancy Jaxx (Margulies) as she searches for a way to stop that deadly virus from spreading into America’s population. This tense, disturbing thriller also stars Noah Emmerich, Topher Grace and Robert Sean Leonard as other scientists determined to halt the plague before it spreads. This one is way too close for comfort, revealing just how vulnerable humans are to a very small germ. THE NAME OF THE ROSE Sundance It takes eight episodes of this miniseries to uncover the truth, in this adaptation of the bestselling novel that swept the world’s imagination back in 1980. The film version of The Name of the Rose starred Sean Connery back in 1986; now this version of Umberto Eco’s medieval murder mystery takes its time in telling the full story of a Franciscan monk (John Turturro in this TV version) and his novice (Damian Hardung) who discover crime in a monastery high in the Italian Alps. This complex thriller will keep you guessing right until the murderer is revealed. WHEN THEY SEE US Netflix The disturbing real-life events chronicled in this four-part miniseries took place in New York City in 1989, when five African American teenagers were accused and convicted of the rape of a woman in Central Park. Known as “the Central Park Five,” the boys from Harlem spent years in jail. Finally exonerated, this series directed and co-written by Ava DuVernay (Selma) follows their lives from accusation to the $41 million settlement reached in 2014 with the city. She’s assembled a powerhouse cast to tell their stories, from Emmy winners John Leguizamo, Christopher Jackson, Blair Underwood and Felicity Huffman to Michael K. Williams, Vera Farmiga and Niecy Nash. • MAY 2019 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 89
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
FROM COMEDY TO CANVAS IN ONE STROKE By Borbay
rowing up on Long Island, my childhood was spent chasing my two passions—art and running. Both brought me to Boston University, where I captained the track team, and graduated with a BFA. It wasn’t too long I found myself running toward a six-month stint on reality TV. My days of cameras and confessionals helped me save-up enough loot to move to the UES. Upon arrival, I dove into standup comedy — performing at such places as Gotham, Stand-up New York, and Dangerfields. Then after a stint at The Trump Organization (hey, you never know if your boss might become the next President!) and a talent agency, I met my wife-to-be. I was setup on a blind date and within five minutes, knew she wasn’t for me. So I did what any red-blooded guy would do: called a good friend to join us. He hit it off with my anticipated date, calling the next day to set-up drinks with his new lady, and her roommate. So, in walks the roommate, Erin, my soon-to-be wife. 90 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | MAY 2019
Portrait Of The Artist As A Married Father Of Two
ART WAS ALWAYS THERE Now employed as Business Director at Fantasy Interactive based in Sweden—a front-end design and development company, I split my time between New York City and Stockholm, working with top brands, including Electronic Arts, Nintendo, and Porsche. But art was still in the back of my mind. In May 2009, I found myself sipping beer and realized it was time to start living my real life as an artist and became Borbay formerly known as Jason Borbet.
Clint Eastwood
A chance encounter with a wealthy Italian on Fifth Avenue lead to my first sale, which I hand-delivered in Milan. I loved it so much I spent a week painting in Brera. During this inspiring period, I found my signature collage-painting style. My first breakthrough? The Kings Of Hip Hop series, which exhibited at Publicis Modem’s Meatpacking District headquarters. I selected the artists based on three criteria: entrepreneurial, involved in social media, and releasing an album within the year. Simultaneously, Forbes had just released a “Cash Kings of Hip Hop” feature. I couldn’t believe I accurately identified 6 of the top 7 Hip Hop stars. Years later, I would pen an art business column for Forbes. Even better is knowing that the Universal Hip Hop Museum just acquired two of the paintings. Now married to the love of my life, I continued painting and exhibiting. In 2012, my work was shown at the Major League Baseball Fan Cave. Keeping with America’s pastime, I created portraits of the Yankee’s David Robertson and Robinson Cano, presenting them at a Trenton Thunder game. My next show, Kick Ass Actors in Kick Ass Roles, sold out. Then during a trip to Las Vegas, I became involved with Broadway Cares Equity Fights AIDS. With that I created a painting in 40 minutes at Planet Hollywood which auctioned for $6,000 to benefit the charity.
A TOTAL CHANGE OF SCENERY In 2015, I was invited to present my business model to the peer investment group, Tiger 21. Through these visionaries, I was asked to create Art Exuma—an artist residency in the Bahamas. Our two-month stay changed our perspective on life so much that we (kids and all!) packed-up our belongings and hit the road. We spent three months living in Jackson Hole’s Teton Village. This experience left such an indelible mark. That June, I had my first Western show at The Art Association of Jackson Hole. The following year, I helped create and participated as the first artist-in-residence at Four Seasons Resort and Residences Jackson Hole. Further announcing my arrival, I won the Spirit of Wyoming art competition. I am currently the artist-in-residence at Teton Springs, a gorgeous country club, where I’ve developed a passion for golf. Last summer, I created a 264 square-foot mural in Victor City Park (about the same square footage of my first NYC apartment). This July 2nd marks my 11th year as an artist—and it seems like only yesterday! Mindscape Guggenheim
For more information on Borbay, visit borbay.com. • MAY 2019 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 91
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JUNE 1-2 2019
MEADOWL ANDS EXPO CENTER SECAUCUS, NEW JERSEY w ww.WorldExpo.dog
NEW YORK, NY
PAWS DOWN, TAILS UP FLIRTY FASHIONS FOR YOUR PET…AND MORE! The Pet Lifestyles Selection by Lori Simmons Zelenko
ou could say being a pet mom is a gift in itself. After all, you are on the receiving end of unconditional love. This Mother’s Day, Pet Lifestyles opts to share the gifts that are about togetherness and celebrating the one you love with fun, as well as finding clever ways to keep your four-legged best friends with you at all times. From glamping vacations to glittering pet jewelry with a host of playful lifestyle accessories in between. It’s all here for every pet mom who loves their fur kid! GET SPORTY CAMPING GETS GLAM Handmade and hand sewn with love, the sporty look of The Bristol Collection of ribbon leashes and collars from Up Country works for city or country. The blue elephants on this outdoorsy pup’s collar are fresh and fun, one of a playful selection suitable for a day of sailing or a stroll down 5 t h Av e n u e . In f o : upcountry.com.
Looking for the best Mother Nature has to offer? Pet moms can choose from 33,000 tree houses, tipis, yurts, safari tents, campervans, cabins, and more! Go glamping in style with Fido or Fifi in tow. Go glam and skip the hassles of traditional camping. You can’t put a price on memories, but you can gift them! Info: glampinghub.com.
HEART TO HEART
IT’S PERSONAL
Record your furry friend’s heartbeat, bark, or meow! This Audible Photo Frame is a 5” x 7” cardboard frame table display with a space for your favorite photo and allows you 20 seconds of recording time. It features a heart that when touched activates the recorded sound. Keep Fido or Fifi close by always with this gift of love. Info: mybabysheartbeatbear.com.
Toast to your fave furry friend with wine customized with your four-legged BFF’s photo. Catch my Bikini here on a bottle of bubbly, he’s never looked handsomer. He’s the love of my life so why not celebrate him in an elegant, meaningful way that I can enjoy in the moment and treasure long after? Info: personalwine.com.
GOLDEN GLOW
CAT’S MEOW
Cherish your fur kid? Show it off with golden, glistening pet charm necklaces, new from celebrity stylist Carrie Cramer. Expertly handcrafted with love in Los Angeles, this fine jewelry will brighten your life with sparkle. Each piece has a little touch of glamour ready to enchant long after Mother’s Day. Info: carriecramer.com.
Even the most standoffish kitty will be happy to kiss the cook who wears the Design Imports Cat’s Meow Printed C h e f ’s Ap r o n . Sure to capture the heart of cat lovers, the chic black and white design features playful s i l houettes of a l l dif ferent k inds of cats. 100 percent cotton. Info: chewy. com. MAY 2019 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 93
TIME FOR P.L.A.Y.
KEEPING TABS
Stop and smell the roses the next time you›re out with your pup and toast to the best kind of friendship. Rover’s Roses toy from P.L.A.Y. Puppy Love Collection celebrates all the fun times you’ve shared with your fur kid. These charming toys will have tails wagging and signify a love that will last fur-ever. Info: petplay.com.
This Mother’s Day the last thing you want to worry about is tracking Fido or Fifi if they’ve taken a road trip all on their own. Smart Buckle increases the odds of getting your furry loved one back home with seamless technology embedded into an ultraprotective pet collar that’s sleek, secure, and cost-effective. Info: smartbuckle.com.
PERFECTLY PRETTY
SMELL SWELL
Victorian romance arrives in time for Mother’s Day in this adorable ensemble from a Fox Named Todd. Sweet florals will charm you with a Mommy and me coordinated look—a bandana, headband and T-shirt—a natural for pet and parent from this fun, fashion forward collection. Info: foxnamedtodd.com.
Consider your pet your family? Pet House candles does too. Their mission is to make products that help create a more loving environment for pets and pet parents. Their 100% natural longlasting soy wax candles are infused with their signature blend of essential oils specially formulated to freshen pet-loving homes. Info: onefurallpets.com.
LOVIN’ LILAC
PAW PRINTS
This delicate shade of pale lilac blooms in a luxe sweater perfect for the littlest furbaby from Reme’s Oggi Pets, available in the Sutton Place boutique. Lush and lovely, it’s a great fit as the season’s change. Chase away the last bit of chill in the air and keep your adored pup warm and cozy as Spring becomes Summer. Info: remesoggipets.com.
Maybe you’re into reading A Dog’s Purpose way more than once and it’s a good bet your fur buddy naps at your side while you read. So it’s no doubt you, being the ultimate dog mom, will love these fun reading glass frames from Evolution Eye—so colorful with a zillion paw prints. Woof! Info: discountglasses.com. •
94 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | MAY 2019
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NEW YORK, NY
9 Bond
ENTREPRENEUR’S CORNER LAURICE RAHMÉ, BOND NO. 9 By Patricia Canole
aurice Rahmé holds an abiding belief that fragrance has the power to enrich our lives. She has realized her ultimate dream to share her passion for the authentic perfumery experience.
Rahmé is the founder, creator and president of Bond No. 9 New York. She launched this edgy, taboo-breaking fragrance collection for women, men and unisex in 2003 to restore artistry to perfumery and to create a scent for each neighborhood in New York. Today, Bond No. 9 is New York’s most iconic fragrance and color house and a top-selling globally recognized luxury brand. As of 2019, Bond No. 9 has produced over 80 fragrances that encompass many New York neighborhoods, beaches, places and also exclusive co-branded fragrance collections for Saks Fifth Avenue, and Harrods. In fact, Rahmé pioneered the concept of the world’s first at-home fragrance system: Private Bond. This super-luxe offering invites consumers to blend and bottle their own customized metro-fragrance, and is the ultimate in exclusivity and desirability. This year, the company introduced New York Lips, the first refillable collection of luxury lip colors. Made in New York, Bond No. 9’s first foray into color includes a family of timeless red and nude statement shades conceived as love letters to the city. Bond No. 9 has six eponymous boutiques and is also sold at Saks Fifth Avenue, select Bloomingdale’s stores, Harrods UK, Selfridges UK and, of course, online. 96 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | MAY 2019
Laurice Rahme ©Vital Agibalow for Hense
Madison Avenue
Nolita
Spring Fling
HOW IT BEGAN
Born and raised in France, the elegant and international Rahmé has enjoyed varied cultural pursuits. She began her career as an antique dealer and also studied art at the Louvre Museum in Paris. Success continued to shine and in 1973, Rahmé joined Lancome-Paris as International Training Director, tripling the company’s skincare business in the Middle East. Three years later, she assumed the role of Director of the Lancome Institut de Beaute, and relocated to L’Oreal USA’s (then Cosmair, Inc.) headquarters in New York.
Greenwich Village
A NEW ADDITION
Traveling was part of her busy life and took her back to Paris, where she met with fragrance designer Annick Goutal and became Partner and President of their operations in New York. For six years, she was responsible for introducing the small French company to the U.S. and creating a unique niche marketing approach focusing on the brand’s jewel-like boutique allure. Recognition and rapid growth followed, and her strategy transformed a small-scale business into the international success story it is today. Then, following her achievements at Annick Goutal, she served as U.S. Distributor of Creed for nine years.
Introduced last month, Bond No. 9’s Greenwich Village joins a long list of iconic fragrances. The vibrant scent brilliantly captures one of New York’s most beloved neighborhoods in scent. It is a celebration of individuality and creativity, and the rich heritage of the city’s artists and intelligentsia, and the community they created. “We had to do Greenwich Village. It’s so rich in culture,” Laurice Rahmé says of the latest fragrance in her portfolio of legendary New York City-inspired scents. “I was thinking of painters and musicians, the jazz clubs and the chess cafés where I went in the seventies when I first came to New York. The Village is intimate; it’s real.”
In an industry that has long been dominated by men, Bond No. 9 is the first New York parfumerie to be headed by a woman. Rahmé, who oversees every aspect of Bond No. 9—from creating the New York-centric concept behind Bond’s collection, to guiding the development of each fragrance and bottle design, and designing the interior of each Bond No. 9 boutique.
To capture the essence of Greenwich Village’s eclectic spirit, the fragrance is a bold bouquet with notes of Cassis, Lychee, Mandarin, Peony, Waterlily among others.The result is an oriental vanilla with a touch of light floralcy. “This is a fragrance that’s not afraid to be different—like the Village itself,” says Rahmé.
AN INDUSTRY ICON
Beyond a brand, Rahmé has made Bond No. 9 a singular force to be reckoned with in the world of luxury goods. After all, while perfumery has always been about head-turning, Bond No. 9 has turned perfumes on their head. And because of this, she’s been recognized many times over for her efforts. In 2015, Rahmé became the world’s first perfumer to win the coveted United Nation’s Women for Peace Award for her efforts in spreading peace internationally through her universally loved Scent of Peace. This was her first introduction to civic scents. Bond No. 9’s Liberty Island honors freedom, liberty, and multiplicity. Ms. Rahmé is a passionate business woman with an uncompromising nose. She operates on feelings… intuition… instinct, supported by a deep knowledge of the fragrance industry and her travels to all corners of the world discovering innovative ingredients, artisans and perfumers. She has always celebrated the unexpected. She has also been an advocate for Women Power ever since she started the brand 16 years ago. Bond No. 9 is 100 percent independently owned and operated by Ms. Rahme with her company being comprised of 80 percent women.
Bon Bon Box
Rahmé’s driving force is her insatiable curiosity, her romantic spirit and sense of adventure. Her philosophy is simple: give the consumer freedom of choice and never attempt to dictate. When it comes to scent, Rahmé believes in the power of the individual. “A woman should always strive to be herself, never outrageous, never outré… but always singular,” notes Rahmé. For more information on Bond No. 9, visit bondno9.com. • MAY 2019 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 97
NEW YORK, NY
MY NEW YORK STORY By Peter Darrow
was born at the (now defunct) New York Hospital in Manhattan. My father was a young partner at a law firm and my mother worked in investment banking for Salomon Brothers, then First Boston. I only recently found out that instead of taking me directly home to our apartment on 114th Street & Riverside, as is customary when being discharged with a newborn, my parents decided to travel three hours in a car straight to our second home in Sag Harbor. It was a Thursday, after all, and understandably you can’t miss a summer Hamptons weekend! We moved to Madison Avenue and 95th soon thereafter, where I spent the next 25 years of my life. My sister, Meredith, attended The Spence School, and I attended The Browning School. We had an incredible live-in nanny named Hyacinth “Ermie” Springer, a native of Barbados, who worked with us for all those years and is like a pseudo-grandmother to me (she is still alive and healthy at 87, and I go visit her frequently in Barbados). As many New York families tend to do, both my sister and I attended boarding school; my sister went to The Lawrenceville School, in Princeton, NJ, and I enrolled at St. Paul’s School in Concord, NH.
A COST TO MY PSYCHOLOGICAL HEALTH
This all sounds lovely, but here’s the truth….
I witnessed a hyper-competitive, very affluent environment (to no fault or choice of my own) in which many parents would obsess over wanting their children to be experts in everything, be fearful of the first sign of any difficulty in any subject and try to use money to keep their kids in line. I witnessed friends of mine go to rehab at age 16 for drugs and alcohol, because their parents weren’t involved in rearing them and were too busy building their own careers. You grow up too fast in New York City. I was lucky my parents were very involved in my upbringing. To their credit, they were incredibly smart and Ivy-league educated; my father attended Columbia College, and my mother was an early female graduate from Harvard Business School. They understandably had the same high expectations set for my sister and me. My father especially was very hard on us…there was a specific “life formula” laid out for us; success was defined by attending certain schools, and working specific kinds of jobs, and belonging to country clubs, etc. If you didn’t follow this formula, then you wouldn’t be “successful.” Let me be very clear: this wasn’t done with any malicious intent. It was coming from a loving place, based on what had worked for them. It just wasn’t necessarily what was in the best interest for my sister and me. They simply wanted to provide a comfortable home for their kids, and they achieved that. What’s the lesson here? You can’t choose the family you’re born into, nor should you shy away from any advantages which it may provide. But you can choose how you conduct yourself and how you treat others. You can choose your motivations, and how to use that knowledge and power for greater good. We all strive to “leave our kids with more than what we had” Isn’t that the goal, after all? But if not handled with care, these good intentions can lead to a lot of guilt, identity confusion, feelings of low self-esteem or self-worth, and power politics. What can be done differently to avoid this? Allow kids to fail. For me as a non-parent, the role of parenting, it seems is not to put up protective barriers around children (for example, the recent college admissions scandal), but rather to be a safety net. In fact, you should encourage failure. That’s the only way a child learns. But understandably, that’s a hard pill for any parent to swallow. 98 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | MAY 2019
THE TRANSFORMATION BEGINS
My father passed away suddenly in 2013 after battling myeloma cancer. He was 62 years old and otherwise very healthy. I was halfway through my MBA in entrepreneurship at Babson College in Wellesley, MA, and my sister was already running a successful contemporary arts business in Los Angeles. His death had a profound and deeply emotional impact on my life. I was already extremely passionate about health and wellness, and decided shortly thereafter to open a farm-to-table restaurant in Union Square called Darrow’s Farm Fresh in his honor.
Peter and his late father at the World Baseball Classic, Disneyworld
While in operation, we received favorable press and partnered with a lot of high profile companies, such as Nike, Equinox, Lululemon, SoulCycle, etc. While I was incredibly proud of what I built and accomplished, it was simply too large of an operation for me to handle and we weren’t making money. I was also trying to salvage a struggling relationship with my serious girlfriend, and decided to close the restaurant after one year. When she left me two weeks later, my whole world felt like it had crumpled and I had lost everything. In that moment, I took a hard look in the mirror and thought to myself, “Whose life am I really living?” It didn’t feel like mine. It felt like someone else’s…. perhaps my father’s? Sister Meredith’s wedding in Aspen
The Young Fellow’s Winter Ball at The Frick Collection
Over the course of the next two years and with the help of lots of meditation, therapy, and introspection, I re-examined every lesson I had ever been taught and underwent a personal transformation. I asked “Why?” to every “rule” that had been put in my head. It was an incredibly difficult journey, but I felt liberated. That’s when I decided to write a book. Wise Millennial: A Field Guide to Thriving in Modern Life (available on Amazon.com and at Barnes & Noble) which is a self-help book/memoir which uses my own stories to illustrate the lessons I’ve learned. My goal is hopefully to empower other millennials in finding their true inner happiness, and lead a more authentic, meaningful life. I hope others will be inspired to start making changes in their own life, break free from limiting beliefs and outdated values on a never-ending journey for the inherent human right to love and happiness. I would characterize My New York Story as a successful one; I was able to navigate the extreme pressures of affluence, peer pressure, and social hierarchy over many years without turning to drugs, alcohol, or other forms of self-abuse. I have been able to stay relatively levelheaded and positive, maintain close friendships, and I am now focused on turning that energy outward to help others. • MAY 2019 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 99
NEW YORK, NY
SPRING SOCIAL CALENDAR By Elizabeth Elston
pring is a season of hope and renewal. As THE NEW YORK CENTER FOR CHILDREN dependable as the changing of seasons, it is time The Magic of Hope Spring Celebration Benefit 2019 to mark your social calendar with this season’s Monday, May 6, 2019 top events. So which of these social outings should The New York Center for Children (NYCC) is hosting 24th Annual Spring Celebration Benefit on Monday, you attend? Here are four can’t miss events during this its May 6th from 6 to 8:30 pm at The Peninsula New York beautiful season. in New York City. The benefit helps raise funds for the NYC DANCE ALLIANCE FOUNDATION, INC.
3rd Annual Chita Rivera Awards Sunday, May 19, 2019 Carrying the namesake of one of the great dance icons of the American musical theater, the mission of The Chita Rivera Awards is to celebrate dance and choreographic excellence—past, present and future. The awards will be held at NYU Skirball Center for the Performing Arts. Joe Lanteri, founder and executive director of the New York City Dance Alliance Foundation, Inc. produces the awards in conjunction with Patricia Watt. The awards will honor the superb achievement of each nominee, while recognizing the immeasurable talents and passion of every theatrical choreographer and dancer. Additionally, through education and scholarships, the awards are committed to nurturing future generations, as well as preserving notable dance history. Nominators will consider outstanding choreography, featured dancers and ensemble in shows on Broadway and Off Broadway, as well as, outstanding choreography in film, that opened in the 2018-2019 season.
Center’s work in healing, prevention and education. This year’s event will feature a The Magic of Hope theme, which reflects the organization’s aim to bring about hope and help children achieve their dreams. NYCC will also honor Manhattan District Attorney, Cyrus Vance, Jr. The benefit will feature live music by the Dennis Alan Jazz Trio, and a silent auction featuring coveted travel offers, fine dining, tickets to cultural performances, high-end fashion accessories and more. Founded in 1995, NYCC is the only independent center in New York City to provide free, comprehensive evaluation and therapy services to children who have experienced physical and sexual abuse and their families. To date, the center has helped more than 15,000 families receive care. Info: newyorkcenterforchildren.org.
The NYC Dance Alliance Foundation College Scholarship Program will be the beneficiary of the event. Since the inception of the NYC Dance Alliance Foundation, $2.5 million have been awarded to over 200 dancers represented in 42 of the most prestigious college dance programs in the country. Info: chitariveraawards.com.
SAMUEL WAXMAN CANCER RESEARCH FOUNDATION Annual Collaborating for a Cure Ladies Luncheon Tuesday, May 14, 2019 Celebrated fashion designer and native New Yorker Dennis Basso will present a show of select eveningwear pieces from his Fall 2019 collection at the SWCRF Annual Collaborating for a Cure Ladies Luncheon. The event will be held at the residence of New York City philanthropist, Mrs. Susan Gutfreund with Don Lemon of CNN’s Tonight as emcee. Event proceeds will support the SWCRF cutting-edge research focused on shutting down the genetic causes of cancer. Guests will also enjoy an elegant luncheon catered by City Chefs Catering paired with wines from Palm Bay International. The Samuel Waxman Cancer Research Foundation is a nonprofit organization dedicated to curing and preventing cancer. Through the Foundation’s collaborative group of world-class scientists, the Institute Without Walls, investigators share information and tools to speed the pace of cancer research. Since its inception in 1976, the Samuel Waxman Cancer Research Foundation has awarded nearly $100 million to support the work of more than 200 researchers across the globe. Info: waxmancancer.org/luncheon. 100 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | MAY 2019
THE AMERICAN CANCER SOCIETY 14th Annual Taste of Hope Thursday, May 23, 2019 Taste of Hope is the American Cancer Society’s signature culinary, wine, and spirits event, featuring some of New York’s most popular restaurants and beverage vendors. Guests enjoy a walk-around tasting where they can sample signature dishes, premier wines and spirits, and inventive cocktails. This year’s celebration, to be held at The Metropolitan Pavilion from 7-10 pm, recognizes Culinary Honorees, Michael Lomonaco, chef and partner of Porter House Bar and Grill; Ralph Scamardella, chef and partner of TAO Group Restaurants; Otto Cedeno, founder of Otto’s Tacos as the Corporate Honoree; and Dana Cowin, former Editor-in-Chief of Food & Wine Magazine as the Survivor Honoree. CBS News anchor Chris Wragge is back to emcee. Now in its 14th year, the event is hosted annually by the Taste of Hope volunteer committee and has raised over $1.8 Million to support the American Cancer Society’s mission and goal of eliminating cancer as a major health problem. Info: tasteofhopenyc.org. •
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NEW YORK, NY
TIME OUT WITH…
SARAH ROSE, AUTHOR OF D-DAY GIRLS By Bailey Beckett
n her latest book, D-Day Girls, Sarah Rose unearths the untold stories of the women who helped turn the tide for the Allies in WWII behind enemy lines. Not many authors would parachute from a plane, shoot guns, master French and learn Morse code for a book, but there are none like Sarah Rose. The New York-based writer, who once chronicled real estate dynasties for The Wall Street Journal, recently debuted her second novel, D-Day Girls, which is generating buzz (and sales!) for its you-are-there account of the women who helped infiltrate Nazicontrolled Europe and turn the war for the Allies. The book, published by Crown, follows the stories of three women sent behind enemy lines to “set Europe ablaze” by Winston Churchill: midnight air drops, sabotage, secret codes and commando raids that helped pave the way for the Allied victory on D-Day. It was debuted April 23rd and is available in bookstores nationwide, as well as online (prh.com/ ddaygirls). New York Lifestyles talks to the writer about her two-year journey into the heart of one of the war’s untold stories. What gave you the idea for D-Day Girls? I wanted to know about the lives of the first women in combat. Focusing on the earliest class of women sent to France was a way to shine a light on the pioneers. Andrée Borrel, Lise de Baissac, and Odette Sansom were each, in their own way, instrumental in laying the groundwork for an Allied victory. Andree helped raise the Resistance on the Channel coast; Lise was in Normandy in June 1944 to lead it. Odette escaped from Ravensbruck, and the evidence she collected helped convict the leader of the largest women’s prison in history.
Sarah Rose, author ©Maria Smilios
How long did it take to research and write? And what was it like to be in the UK and France to interview, meet families and be where these events happened? I spent two years writing. As a starting point, I moved to France to immerse myself in the world of Vichy and to learn French. I wanted to understand the training these women had gone through, so I went parachuting, took a boot camp, practiced shooting, assembled a radio and attempted to learn Morse code. I would make a terrible spy, but I wanted to create a lived-in feel. I visited the known addresses and walked every step. I interviewed veterans, families, and scholars, who were so welcoming and gracious with their memories, but by and large, my research took place in the archives. I found an embarrassment of riches in diaries, oral histories, letters, war crimes testimonies and declassified military files. MAY 2019 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 103
What was the hardest part? I needed to recreate clandestine work in France for readers but had to dig deep for information. A good agent leaves no trace, so operational details are invisible by design. Missions were classified for two generations, until the end of the Cold War. By that time, few agents were still alive. Files were selectively weeded long before declassification, particularly when details were embarrassing to the Allies. Some first-person accounts are grandiose and demand being taken with a great deal of salt; clandestine work attracts kooks, smugglers, and fantasists, in addition to heroes. Commanders had the paternalistic idea that what happened to women behind the lines was either unseemly for posterity, or grotesque. When agents got raped, records are silent. When Odette spoke about her torture, she was called a hysteric, despite her scars. Odette’s recruiter even spread the false rumor that she survived only because she was the Ravensbruck commandant’s mistress. Why don’t people know this story already? Sending women to war was brand new. When one-third of the recruits didn’t return it horrified Britain, and was seen as a betrayal of her most vulnerable citizens. Baseline sexism also distorts the record: Women’s missions were dismissed as “secretarial,” though they were telegraph operators, couriers, and circuit leaders: the same work performed by men. Sexual relationships blossomed behind the lines, producing a few marriages, but historians disdain this very human part of war as “romantic twaddle” and go back to counting bullets and bodies. The overwhelming reason we don’t hear about women in global conflicts is that until now war stories have been written by men.
Andree Borrel ©Wikimedia Commons
Lise de Baissac ©Wikimedia Commons
We don’t know enough about the female leaders in Normandy and Brittany, or about the mothers and daughters who died defying Nazi torture. Why should readers buy this book now? The 75th Anniversary of D-Day will be celebrated this year on June 6th. I want the world to remember that the hidden figures of D-Day are women. We don’t know enough about the female leaders in Normandy and Brittany, or about the mothers and daughters who died receiving arms dumps, hiding contraband and forging documents, who were publishing manifestoes, conducting underground railroads, and defying Nazi torture. They are every bit the heroes men were, and, after 75 years, deserve to be honored. What do you hope readers get out of this book? Andrée, Lise, and Odette are inspiring. In a moment of global upheaval, their stories demonstrate what the anger and energy of politically-minded women can accomplish. With authoritarian, ethno-nationalist regimes on the rise, the world of D-Day Girls doesn’t seem so far away. But as in France in 19401944, women are now stepping up, taking to the streets, organizing opposition, putting their bodies on the line, and proclaiming their right to #RESIST. The work of our matriarchs reminds us that activism is a potent weapon and can change the fate of nations. What is your next project? I have no idea what’s next! •
104 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | MAY 2019
Odette Sansom ©Wikimedia Commons
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