Vol. 5 #9 | November 2019
JUSTIN SILVER
ACTOR, COMEDIAN & DOG GUY SHARES THE SPOTLIGHT TRENDING NOW Designer Kate Connick
HOLIDAYS IN NYC Let The Magic Begin
THANKSGIVING 2019 What’s On The Menu?
REAL ESTATE A Buyer’s Desire
Together..
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MAHWAH RIVERFRONT EQUESTRIAN ESTATE $3,995,000 Hampton’s style shingle and stone masterpiece offers high volume and expansive views. 9-stall barn, limestone jumping area, paddocks and trails along the river. Above the stalls is a massive artist’s loft. Infinity pool, hot tub, generator & more!
SADDLE RIVER 9.4 ACRE ESTATE $9,800,000 Custom built country estate with a custom kitchen, 1st floor master BR suite, indoor & outdoor pool/spa, cabana, tennis court & 6-car garage. Also includes adjoining property with a barn with 10 stalls & guesthouse totaling 9.4 acres.
SADDLE RIVER CELEBRITY STUNNER—5.7 ACRES $5,995,000 Notable actress, comedian & philanthropist offers this enchanting English Country Estate completely renovated & expanded on 5.7+ acres. 6 BRs, 1st floor theater, guesthouse, lagoon pool w/waterfalls, gen., elevator & 3-car garage + artist’s studio!
SADDLE RIVER PALATIAL MASTERPIECE $10,995,000 One of a kind estate on apprx. 4 lush acres. Banquet DR, massive GR, multi-suite kitchen, solarium, award winning theater and wine tasting/cellar, huge master BR suite, boutique-style closet, indoor and outdoor pools, 7-car garage, 10 fireplaces.
FRANKLIN LAKES PRIME LOCATION $3,495,000 Sought after multi-million dollar location showcases this sleek & stunning brick manor. Open floorplan, beautifully updated. Lagoon pool with waterfall, patio & cabana. Finished lower level, 6-car garage (2 detached) & generator. Private setting.
SADDLE RIVER, NJ HAMPTON’S STYLE $2,995,000 Brand New Ready to move in, sleek & stunning stone and cedar Hampton’s style beauty situated at the end of a country lane on a 2 acre cul de sac setting. 6 BRs, 6 1/2 baths, theater area, wine tasting, wrap around mahogany porch and more!
OFFICE
VICKI GAILY REALTOR-ASSOCIATE®
201 934-7111 • CELL 201 390-5880
•
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.
MILL POND 14 +ACRES Saddle River, NJ $11,500,000 One of the most extraordinary estates in the tri-state area offering a two-acre lake, regulation-lighted tennis court, pool, large building that can accommodate eight cars plus huge studio, ten-stall barn for the avid equestrian, a separate five bedroom guesthouse and a magnificent French Chateau with panoramic views. 30 minutes from NYC! Visit specialproperties.com for more photos and details. FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM & FACEBOOK @SPECIALPROPERTIESNJ 158 WEST SADDLE RIVER ROAD SADDLE RIVER, NJ 07458
Contents
13
FEATURES 10 13 46 52 54
From The Publisher Cover Feature: Justin Silver Through The Lens With Annie Watt Bits & Bailey: The Who, What & Wow Of The Luxe Life Tech Talk: Kitchen Items You Never Knew You Needed
STYLE
18
18 Beauty Regimen Must-Haves 20 Hot Trends For Cool Winter Fashions 22 Savvy Looks From Richard James Of Savile Row
TRAVEL 24 28 30 32 34 36 37
Celestyal Cruises: An Immersive Greek Voyage Beautiful Bimini: It’s Closer Than You Think Ultimate Travel: The Perfect Place At The Right Time Saybrook Point Inn Marina & Spa: A Connecticut Escape Land Of 10,000 Lakes: Put Minnesota On Your Bucket List The Oetker Collection: Luxury Meets Elevated Expectations The Ritz-Carlton Reynolds, Lake Oconee
24
REAL ESTATE & HOME DECOR 40 43 56 58 60
Around Town: Park Slope The Symon: Luxury Arrives In Brooklyn The Centrale: Five-Star Living In Midtown Greenwich West: Hudson Square’s Condo With A French Twist Top Amenities: What Makes A Buyer’s Heart Sing
4 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | NOVEMBER 2019
40
SAVE UP TO 20%
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USE CODE: STYLE rockettes.com/style
*Offer not valid on previously purchased tickets and cannot be combined with any other offer. 8 ticket limit. Discount is calculated off the original box office price. Service charges apply to telephone and internet orders. All sales are final - no refunds or exchanges. Offer may be revoked or modified at any time without notice and subject to availability. Other restrictions may apply. Offer expires January 5, 2020. Accessible and companion seats are available via the Disabled Services Department at (888) 609-7599. Š 2019 MSG Sports and Entertainment Holdings, LLC. All rights reserved.
Contents
62
70
HEALTH & WELLNESS 62 64 66 68
Dr. Haideh Hirmand: The Scientific & Artful Plastic Surgeon Sleep: Desperately Seeking Snoozin’ Dr. Samuel Waxman: A Quest To Reverse Cancer Gratitude: The Key To Happiness
73
FOOD & DRINK 70 Fogo De Chao: A Brazilian Steakhouse With Flash & Finesse 73 Feast On This: What’s On The Thanksgiving Day Menu 76 Sourland Mountain Spirits: Making New Jersey Proud
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT 78 On Stage: David Bryne’s American Utopia 80 On The Big Screen 82 On The Small Screen
78
NEW YORK, NY 85 88 90 93 96
The Annual Holiday Guide To NYC Entrepreneur’s Corner: Maryanne Parker My New York Story: Anna Estrada Paws Down…Tails Up: Tips For A Happy Holiday Time Out With…Kate Connick
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OUR CONTRIBUTORS 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 trek across the Kilauea Iki Crater on the Big Island of Hawaii, and snorkeling with penguins and whitetipped reef sharks in the Galapagos Islands. The New Jersey couple have written regularly for several local newspapers in addition to Hospitality 21, Family Travel Network, Family Travel Forum, The Parent Paper, Bergen County: The Magazine, Bergen County Kids Magazine, and Family Destinations. LEE GABAY Lee was born and bred in the Lower East Side of Manhattan. He still resides there with his wife and daughter. He is a proud 21-year New York City public school educator who teaches at a Transfer High School in Spanish Harlem. Lee is a doctor of Urban Education whose research on Juvenile Detention Education is documented in his book I Hope I Don’t See You Tomorrow (2016). His published works about education, incarceration, basketball. and sneaker culture can be found in Slam Magazine, Bleacher Report, and many other publications. In 2016 the New York Times named him “A New Yorker” of the year. Lee is a NYC sports historian as well as a Knicks, Jets, Ranger and Yankee fan. Additionally, he has been to almost every U2 concert at Madison Square Garden since 1987. LISA K. LIPPMAN Lisa has been the Number One broker at Brown Harris Stevens for three consecutive years since 2016. A 22-year real estate insider, Lisa is consistently named among Manhattan’s top 5 and the country’s top 20 in terms of transaction volume; and has garnered a reputation for approaching each interaction with acumen, professionalism and confidence. Lisa specializes in helping a discerning clientele buy and sell luxury condominiums, cooperatives, and townhomes throughout Manhattan. In addition to providing insights on the overall market, Lisa is able to highlight current conditions and explain their short- and long-term impact. Prior to becoming a real estate broker, Lisa spent several years as a lawyer practicing litigation at two prestigious law firms—a background that affords her a keen understanding of the negotiation process as well as the complexities often encountered towards completion of a deal.
Vol. 5 #9 | November 2019 President / Publisher BILL MASON Editor-in-Chief Patricia Canole
Art Director Eric Duncan
Entertainment Jenny Peters, Lori Zelenko
Features Ruth J. Katz
Lifestyle Griffin Miller
Style Gerrie Summers
Special Projects Natasha Bazika, Norah Bradford
Chief Photographer Annie Watt
Contributing Writers Bailey Beckett, Harry Brads, AP Connolly Elizabeth Darwen, Peter Elston, Lee Gabay Jenna Guarneri, TJ Johnson, Dr. Peter Kalellis, Kristie Kellehan Lillian Langtry, Lisa K. Lippman, Kelley Mason, Margaret Mason Tina & TJ Mulqueen, Ellis Nassour, Darren Paltrowitz Anne Raso, Will Reed, Cecilia Ruane Jeff & Stephanie Sylva, Laurie Bain Wilson, Stacey Zable Executive Vice President of Sales LYLE SELTZER Sales Bill Mason Sr. - Director of New Business Development Kevin Hicks - Director of Integrated Sales and Marketing Donna Riley - Director of Sales Louren Bates - Director of Sales John Miller - Sales Manager Michael Stulmaker - Sales Manager 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 by AnnieWatt.com
8 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | NOVEMBER 2019
HILLSBORO BEACH, FL I $26,995,000 MLS#RX-10507055 I Jack Elkins, 561.373.2198
NAPLES, FL I $9,500,000 I MLS#219012254 Ted & Lauren Wilmering, 239.465.1005
WESTPORT, CT I $3,295,000 I MLS#170217189 Leslie Clarke Homes, 203.984.1856
LITCHFIELD, CT I $2,222,500 I MLS#170096266 The Matthews Group, 860.868.0511
KATONAH, NY I $1,999,000 I MLS#4932682 Hope Mazzola, 914.714.0090
LITCHFIELD, CT I $1,900,000 I MLS#170195067 The Matthews Group, 860.868.0511
Old Black Point BEDFORD CORNERS, NY I $1,699,000I MLS#4901401 The Del Vecchio Scarano Team, 914.646.9322
BRIDGEWATER, CT I $1,549,000I MLS#170111586 The Matthews Group, 860.868.0511
EAST LYME, CT I $1,295,000 I MLS#170177196 Ann Stewart, 860.235.2131
EAST HADDAM, CT I $1,100,000 I MLS#170189337 One & Company, 860.941.2755
BRIDGEWATER, CT I $1,095,000I MLS#170210023 The Matthews Group, 860.868.0511
STRATFORD, CT I $1,095,000 I MLS#170184866 Heidi Cinder, 203.521.1843
GUILFORD, CT I $1,075,000 I MLS#170075230 One & Company, 860.941.2755
WASHINGTON, CT I $1,050,000 I MLS#170197485 The Matthews Group, 860.868.0511
MAHOPAC, NY I $998,800 I MLS#5010749 B. LaBarbera, 914.879.3928/A. Mancusi, 845.242.2767
FROM THE PUBLISHER
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his month truly has one of the most important holidays of the year, my birthday. No, wait a minute. I’m just kidding. What I’m talking about is Thanksgiving, let me explain why. Because for many of us, the ritual of this favorite holiday usually consists of family gatherings with an overabundance of home-cooked delicious pleasures, traditional football games, and watching the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade with some of the best-looking floats and balloons ever constructed. Even for some of us, it’s the final countdown to all the Black Friday door-buster deals that only happen once a year; it’s truly becoming a professional sport (watch out all you old-time wrestling fans). But this year, I would briefly like to reflect on some things I’m very grateful for. Most important to me is the health and happiness of my family, relatives, and friends. Because without their love, kindness, and support, none of this would make any sense. For a guy who doesn’t know everything in life, I understand that if you surround yourself with loving, caring, positive, and supporting people, you can achieve anything in life you set out to do. Everyone deserves to be happy, so remember that “setbacks” are only experiences, that if handled properly, it can turn into a gift that makes you stronger mentally and physically in the long run. So with the holiday season coming up fast, we all need to take a moment to make a random act of kindness to someone consciously. This is what I call and is known as “paying it forward.” The impact of this unexpected gesture creates a very warm feeling of appreciation. Take a moment and wish the first three people you meet to have a nice day or pay for someone’s order at the local coffee shop. How about surprising an elderly neighbor with a bag full of groceries, or even picking up an extra bag of dog food for the nearby animal shelter. Whatever you do and no matter how little it seems, you are brightening someone’s day. That’s enough for me, how about you. I look forward to hearing from you with comments, suggestions, and what you would like to see on the pages of New York Lifestyles and Pet Lifestyles magazines. See you next month, Gobble, Gobble.
-Bill Mason
Publisher
10 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | NOVEMBER 2019
Visit us at: newyorklifestylesmagazine.com For subscription or back issues, call:
(646) 259-2651
PALM BEACH COUNTY WATERFRONT OFFERINGS 939 Hyacinth Drive, Delray Beach $2,395,000 | 5-BR 5.5-BA 5,354sf Double leaded glass doors open to reveal an elegant, gracious Mediterranean deepwater residence. This YACHT-OWNER’S ideal, located on an extra wide canal, is only a few homes from the Intracoastal and has a 100’ dock. The main level presents a welcoming open floorplan with beautiful living rm, formal dining rm, large kitchen open to the family rm, handsome den/library, powder room and bedroom/bath. The elevator & wide staircase open to the second level where all flooring is magnificent wood. The enormous, tranquil master suite has a spacious spa bath, outfitted closets. 3 additional ensuite bedrooms, a family room and balcony overlook the water. Heated salt water pool & spa, summer kitchen with built-in BBQ are perfect for outdoor entertaining
44 Cocoanut Row, 301A, Palm Beach $629,000 | 1-BR, 1.5-BA 1125sf Bright, expansive, open floor plan. Remodeled kitchen and bathrooms. Glass enclosed balcony. Amazing full-service building with resort- sized intracoastal pool. Unmatched amenities include: restaurant, doorman, gourmet shop, salon, post office, exercise classes, day dock, etc.
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FEATURES
JUSTIN SILVER
ACTOR, COMEDIAN & DOG GUY By Lee Gabay
want to start a dating App where they match you with people based upon your Amazon purchases. You’ll know everything you have in common with that person,” grins Justin Silver from the stage of a New York City comedy club. Like most comedians, Justin is keenly observant of human nature’s funny nuances and absurdities. But what sets him apart from his stand-up peers is how he honed his craft—by speaking to dogs. For the past 15 years, Justin has been New York’s celebrated dog whisperer. From starting out as the fun-loving guy in the park to operating his own dog services company, the TV star and author has a knack for bonding with dogs through humorous negotiations and deep understanding. Justin believes that dogs essentially want to give and receive love. They go about seeking approval in a handful of charming or challenging ways. He attributes the ability to “listen with your eyes” as essential to training. Basics such as surveying the surroundings and observing responses are fundamental elements of owner/dog communication. © @humanplac3s
NOVEMBER 2019 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 13
WORKING WITH ANIMALS
One of the more challenging aspects of working with animals is training those who care for them,” shares Justin. “Dog owners with the best intentions often spend too much time telling their dogs what they don’t want rather than simply saying what they need.” Justin’s emphasis on affirmative language with both animals and humans has led to many achievements related to his passions for pets and performance. He starred in CBS’s reality show, Dogs in The City, authored the training book The Language of Dogs and founded Funny For Fido, a comedy fundraiser which supports previously homeless or abused shelter animals.
©Brian Friedman Photography
This fall, Justin shares his laughter (and bite) hosting the popular Neuroticia Podcast. Justin can also be seen alongside Zoe Kravitz in TV’s anticipated reboot of the film High-Fidelity. But perhaps most importantly, Justin can be seen on the streets of New York, helping canines.
14 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | NOVEMBER 2019
DOGMATIC
In his early years, Justin struggled at school. He had difficulties finding the right words to express himself and would often act out accordingly. Raised by a fashion designer mother and Holocaust survivor grandmother, his adolescence had some built-in challenges. Yet through understanding the life obstacles of these two exceptional women, he developed a bond and sensitivity toward those most vulnerable. His life experiences instilled an empathy and awareness that naturally drew him to animals. As his mother often reminds him, working with animals is his way to fix himself. Though Justin had a dog growing up, the species officially became his passion in 2006. That year, he met Chiquita, a five-month-old pitbull/border collie mix who was found tied to a telephone pole before she landed in a Bronx shelter. Chiquita’s rough start in life had turned her confidence into pushiness and protectiveness into aggression. The qualities that made her so much fun were overshadowed by related traits that made her difficult. “I wanted her to live as stress-free as possible and found ways to be nurturing while firmly setting limits.” Chiquita’s patterns were reprogrammed, and eventually Justin knew they were on their way when she would look to him for instructions instead of reacting as she once did.
©Steven Klein
Justin’s ethos is to treat animals as he would want to be treated. He always reminds his clients that dogs are animals, not accessories. “Each dog is unique and wonderful in their own way and humans must assist in socializing them, but should not try to change their personalities.” NOVEMBER 2019 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 15
©FunnyForFido.org
16 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | NOVEMBER 2019
AN OFF-THE-CUFF Q&A If you could invite three people to dinner—living, dead, fictional, or real— who would they be? My Grandmother, my pitbull Pacino, and the wizard who brought them back to life. ©Brian Friedman Photography
UNLEASHED
The numerous life lessons that Justin has learned from his years as a dog trainer have given him an outline for the discipline and approach needed for his own work and well-being. Choosing a career path without linear benchmarks, Justin turned these uncertainties into performance opportunities by keeping busy with a number of projects as an actor, commercial voiceover artist, Podcast host and most notably stand-up comedian. Though he is well regarded for teaching dogs proper etiquette, he is also known as someone who likes to push social boundaries through his work in comedy. “The job of a trainer is to find the truth, while my other job as a comedian is to speak the truth.” For Justin, the two worlds mesh seamlessly. “Comedy and dog training are both two-way dialogues. It’s about reading the room. If you lose your audience you have to find a way to get them back.” While navigating these fields, Justin noticed that animal rescue workers tended to have hearts bigger than their homes and they always seemed overloaded and underfunded. Seeing a real need, Justin reached out to his friends in comedy and began his Funny for Fido fundraiser. An all-star list of performers have lent their talents to the benefit over the past decade, including Amy Schumer, Colin Quinn, Jim Gaffigan and most recently Jerry Seinfeld. This year they raised close to $16,000 for Dogs Deserve Better, a sanctuary for dogs living at the once notorious Michael Vick Virginia estate. The yard where dogs were forced to fight is now Freedom Yard where they spend their days peacefully. Justin Silver & Mike Vecchione hosting “No Disrespect Podcast” ©GaS Digital
If you could read one book over and over for the rest of your life, what would it be? The Six Pillars Of Self Esteem by Nathaniel Branden. If you could eat one food for the rest of your life, what would it be? Pizza. If you could travel to any time period (backward or forward) where would you go? That magical time before social media… remember? If you could commission any artist (living or dead) to create art for you, who would you choose? Salvador Dali. What would you like to be known for? Vulnerable performances that made people laugh and cry while helping out a few critters and people along the way. What do you think is the greatest invention in your lifetime? The laptop I’m typing this answer on. What is one life lesson you will never forget? To keep the focus on yourself instead of comparing yourself to the people around you. Something I need to remind myself of daily… What’s your personal heaven? Performing with my best friends in front of a crowd that gets it. Then hopping in my Jeep with an adoring woman riding shotgun, dogs smiling out the back window, and music blasting on our way to a camp site.
SPEAKING THEIR LANGUAGE
Justin’s concern for the underdog goes well beyond just dogs. He often visits New York City public schools in areas most affected by crime and poverty. He recently volunteered as a comedic acting coach with the students from Unstoppable, a musical performed by children growing up in the foster care and shelter system. The building blocks of his work revolve around playfulness and whether they be on two or four legs, Justin treats challenges with dignity and resolve and sees laughter as part of healing. “Comedy leads to growth, learning, trust and forgiveness. Regardless of the species, joyful actions don’t lie.” Justin strongly recognizes the importance of giving voice to those who are not heard or, in the case of dogs, to those that cannot speak. His innate ability to serve those in need has been his livelihood as well as his calling—and he always offers a hand. For more information on Justin Silver, visit iamjustinsilver.com. •
What, in your opinion, is a fundamental characteristic of a good person? Honesty and a desire to add value. Everyone is flawed and everyone has gifts. An honest person can admit their flaws, apologize when they are wrong and get on with the business of sharing their gifts with the world. Do you believe in luck? Of course! I’m in the entertainment business… I mean, Hello! What was the best part of your day today? An impromptu picnic with my close friends and their foster pit bulls on the pier after a workout.
NOVEMBER 2019 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 17
STYLE
BEAUTY REGIMEN MUST-HAVES By Gerrie Summers
inter is almost here. So, before anything else, pack these skincare products in your winter skincare arsenal to fight the signs of aging, dry skin, and to look great for the upcoming holidays. HEY DEWY ELLA + MILA Portable Facial Humidifier Colder air and dry heat can cause the skin to lose moisture. Replenish it by adding humidity to your surroundings. The Hey Dewy Portable Facial Humidifier can be used in the office, home, or as you travel to hydrate hair and skin, by sending a cool mist into the air. It can also be used in a car and will fit into a standard cup holder. It has a USB power cord that can connect to your laptop, computer, or in the car to last up to 10 hours. Info: heydewy.com.
Don’t Flake On Me Body Scrub When skin gets too dry it begins to look dull and gray. Exfoliation can help remove the dead cells, revealing fresh skin—which improves skin to absorb moisture. The Ella + Mila Don’t Flake On Me Body Scrub has five nourishing oils— j oj ob a s e e d, c astor, coconut, sunflower seed, and grape seed oil—to restore moisture for soft, smooth skin. Info: ellamila.com.
EMEPELLE Serum and Night Cream Emepelle is a cosmeceutical skincare line that addresses the cause of skin aging in mature skin. It restores estrogen loss and restores hydration and firmness using MEP Technology that stimulates estrogen receptors, without the use of hormones. The line currently consists of a Serum and Night Cream. The oil-free and fast-absorbing serum that is used in the morning contains niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, peptides and antioxidants to firm and smooth skin, while the Night Cream combines retinol, emollients, humectants, peptides and niacinamide to help reduce the appearance of lines and wrinkles and provides hydration for all skin types. Info: emepelle.com.
CHILYO Total Eye and Lobe Serum This magic serum has caffeine, marine elastin and collagen, and full-spectrum hemp CBD to address signs of skin aging that can come from environmental stressors like pollution and dehydration. Total Eye and Lobe Serum helps decrease dark under-eye circles, bags and puffiness, restore firmness and elasticity and rejuvenates dull skin. The serum also targets the ear lobe, another area that shows early signs of aging. Who knew? Info: chilyo.com.
18 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | NOVEMBER 2019
JOOVV Joovv Go It’s been clinically proven that red light therapy can be used as a natural skin treatment and has anti-aging properties to boost collagen, reduce wrinkles and fine lines, enhance skin tone, decrease inflammation and possibly treat skin conditions. But red light therapy treatments in spas and medical facilities can be pricey. Joovv Go is a convenient and less expensive way to deliver red light and near-infrared light to the skin to stimulate new skin cells without damage to the skin surface. The compact size also makes it convenient for travel. Info: joovv.com.
LA BLOOM BEAUTY
PLAINE PRODUCTS
Cocoa Vanilla Lip Scrub/Rose Hand Scrub Two areas on the body often neglected during the winter months— lips and hands. Both need gentle exfoliation and moisturization to keep them healthy and protected from wind and cold, to prevent dryness and chapping. La Bloom Beauty’s Cocoa Vanilla Lip Scrub with organic moisturizing butters and oils, gently exfoliates lips, making them soft and hydrated. Rose Hand Scrub nourishes hands with rose essential oils, coconut oil, and sweet almond. oil. Info: labloombeauty.com.
MORGAN TAYLOR LACQUER Forever Marilyn Morgan Taylor’s fall nail collection introduces Forever Marilyn featuring six shades evoking the timeless glamor of the screen legend. Look for Some Girls Prefer Pearls (White Shimmer), All American Beauty (Sheer Soft Nude), A Girl and Her Curls (Eggplant Shimmer), T h a t ’s S o M o n r o e ( C o o l B r o w n Shimmer), Flirty and Fabulous (Teal Creme) and Classic Red Lips (Tomato Red Creme). Info: morgantaylorlacquer.com.
Sustainable Hair & Body Care Products Keep your hair and body healthy while protecting the health of the earth. This eco-friendly company eliminates the use of plastic bottles that end up in landfills. Products include shampoos, conditioners, and body care which can be purchased individually or through a subscription service. When you run low, you can order a refill (or through the subscription service products are sent automatically). You just swap out the bottles for the new ones and return the empty containers using the return label. The products are free of sulfites, parabens, phthalates and palm oil and are vegan, non-GMO, and cruelty-free and are also available in travel sizes. Info: plaineproducts.com.
ICONIC ROSE
PAULA’S CHOICE
Makeup Palettes Iconic Rose has all you need to create your makeup look for fall and beyond. The makeup has 3-tonal color technology that balances cool, warm, and neutral tones to create universally flattering colors that look great on all skin tones. The Art of Seduction Eyeshadow Palette has 18 mattes, shimmers, and blendable glitter shades so you can create your unique look. The Face Palette contains contour powder, blush, and highlighter for a glamorous glow. Info: iconicrose.com.
Resist Skin Restoring Moisturizer SPF-50 We tend to forget about using sunscreen as we enter the cold weather months, but winter rays from the sun are just as damaging to the skin. This moisturizer has skin-loving and nourishing ingredients like niacinamide, shea butter, and licorice to help prevent premature aging and protect the skin against environmental stressors, while hydrating dry winter skin and shielding it from UV rays with broadspectrum SPF-50. Info: paulaschoice.com. •
NOVEMBER 2019 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 19
STYLE
HOT TRENDS FOR COOL WINTER FASHIONS By Gerrie Summers
e found some cool styles and products to keep you warm and cozy, keep your shoes and boots in shape, and in one case literally keep you cool (yes, in the winter) when you need it!
BAABUK Sky Wooler If you’re looking for a comfortable and cozy sneaker, Sky Wooler sneakers are handcrafted from 100 percent Portuguese mulesingfree sheep wool. The wool is breathable with natural wicking properties that keep your feet at a comfortable temperature, keeping cold out in the winter, without the sweat. The merino lining is also itch-free. The shoe is available in four colors. Info: us.baabuk.com.
CARVE DESIGNS Emery Jacket This warm, down-filled coat with Sherpa lining and detachable hood is lightweight, yet keeps you warm. Other features include a full two-way center front zip closure, front zip welt pocket and interior pocket with a Velcro closure. The Emery Jacket is available in five colors. Info: carvedesigns.com. 20 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | NOVEMBER 2019
HOT GIRLS PEARLS Necklaces/Bracelets These pearls literally serve double duty as cool jewelry. Hot Girls Pearls were designed for women going through perimenopause and menopause. Each pearl is filled with non-toxic cooling gel and provides a discreet way to get relief when your body gets overheated. You just put the pearls inside the insulated pouch and place it in the freezer to chill. The pouch acts as a mini-freezer, keeping the pearls cool for hours so they’re also ideal for your winter escape to a hot, tropical climate. Info: hotgirlspearls.com.
FORMÉ Shoe Shapers Formé shoe shapers safely expand the toe box in a shoe and can stretch it up to a half a size, for more comfort and to relieve numb or cramped toes. You can customize the amount of stretch. It works well in heels, flats, boots, sandals and sneakers and can also be used to keep shoes in shape when not wearing them. Info: formecomfort.com.
SAINT OWEN
ONZIE
Rockbird Collection These fierce cat-eye glasses are, states the company, dedicated to their friends in the music industry. From Saint Owen’s, the Rockbird Collection of classic cat-eye frames are designed to get you noticed, especially the limited edition frames that feature over 100 dome studs on the front, top and temple of the frame. Info: saintowen.com.
Teddy Jacket This plush and oversized jacket from athletic apparel company Onzie, will keep you warm pre- and post-workouts. Its hip length looks cute and cozy with yoga pants. Roomy pockets, zipup closure, plus machine washable makes it number one on your shopping list. The Teddy Jacket is available in several colors. Info: onzie.com.
DR LIZA SHOES Bootie 2.0 Do you suffer from feet fatigue? Married to your heels, but by the end of the day you can’t feel them? Here’s the perfect solution: Dr. Liza Shoes are designed by a doctor with a toe box wide enough to give feet wiggle room. The fashionable Bootie 2.0 absorbs shock making every step comfortable. Plus, the design is actually posture perfecting, with an arch support that corrects your stance and a non-skid sole to help you walk more stable—even in heels. These boots really are made for walking! Info: drlizashoes.com.
CINDY KAREN Paris Special Evening Date Dress That description says it all. The Paris dress from Cindy Karen is great for holiday parties and that special New Year’s Eve celebration. An off-the-shoulder dress is always so sexy, making it the perfect little black dress. It also packs well for travel, say to—Paris? Info: cindykaren.com. • NOVEMBER 2019 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 21
STYLE
MEN’S FASHION
SAVVY LOOKS FROM RICHARD JAMES By Harry Brads
ne of the new generations of tailors to arrive on Savile Row, Richard James has created new styles and colors to men’s made-to-measure and bespoke fashion. The designer’s stylish readyto-wear Collection will keep you looking as cool as the temperatures. Info: richard-james.com.
TEDDY BEAR COAT The famed English-made Teddy Bear Coat is a wonderfully warm and soft-to-touch raven black deep-pile Alpaca. The Alpaca is supplied by Steiff, the acclaimed teddy bear makers of Germany. The double-breasted coat features a three-horn button fastening, two side pockets, two inside pockets, a satin Richard James camo lining, a single vent, and snug roll-over cuffs.
FIELD JACKET A classic, entirely practical English-made field jacket in soft and supple suede. With zip and press-stud front fastening, button cuffs, four front press stud-fastening flap pockets, two inside pockets, a diamond quilted satin lining, and a drawstring waist, the addition to your wardrobe will become a favorite.
SEISHIN SUIT A perfectly adaptable two-button suit in a classic, ever-smart pindot wool. The jacket features notched lapels, a satin lining, two slanted flap pockets, two inside pockets, a breast pocket, double vents, a working buttonhole and flower loop, and horn buttons. The straight leg, flat-front, half-lined trousers include two-side pockets, two back pockets, and adjustable waist tags. Everything you expect from a Savile Row suit. 22 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | NOVEMBER 2019
ZIP BOMBER JACKET A neatly cut English-made bomber jacket in sharply graphic cotton and wool vortex jacquard. The zippered jacket has a ribbed waist, cuffs and neck. Best of all there’s plenty of inside pocket space. A sharply refined classic. •
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AN IMMERSIVE GREEK VOYAGE CELESTYAL CRUISES OFFERS AN AUTHENTIC EXPERIENCE By Stacey Zable
owering ancient stone ruins, marvelous beaches, turquoise waters, warm welcoming people, fresh Greek cuisine, and mild year-round Mediterranean weather are just some of what draws travelers to the Greek Islands. And to best experience these treasures and more, my family and I decided a Celestyal Cruise was the ideal way for us to island-hop Greek-style. Inside the staterooms aboard Celestyal Crystal, all guests sailing the Greek Islands will find a welcome letter within the ship information book from CEO Chris Theophilides. “Greece is the very essence of Celestyal Cruises,” he writes; and for my family, that was exactly what we were hoping for when we opted the 7-night “Idyllic Aegean” voyage. By choosing the Celestyal Crystal, we were able to integrate the region on and off the ship. The round trip Piraeus (Athens) itinerary featured not only port stops every day of the cruise, but more time in most of them. The itinerary included two overnights (in Mykonos and Santorini) and a late call at Milos, an under-theradar gem. The other fascinating port stops included a late stay in Crete, and a full day in Turkey.
Celestyal Crystal
Celestyal Crystal Thalassa Bar
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In addition to the itinerary, Celestyal offers all-inclusive rates that make it an especially good value in terms of pricing. It’s also possible to upgrade to suite accommodations and private excursions, enabling guests to customize their dream trip. Included in the rate are all meals and an unlimited alcoholic and non-alcoholic drink package (soda, most juices, cocktails, non-alcoholic cocktails, coffees, Greek wine, and beer). Entertainment, activities, port and service charges, and all gratuities are also included. The cruise line even gives guests three included excursions within its seven-night itinerary as part of its all-inclusive rate.
A CUSTOMIZED CELESTYAL CRUISE Upgrade To The Suite Life Our home for seven nights was the 476-stateroom Celestyal Crystal which launched its Premium Suite Concierge Experience this year. The complete suites refurbishment included all new furnishings, fixtures plus a host of extras: a dedicated suite check-in counter for priority embarkation, and express luggage arrival in your suite. The Suite Concierge is at the ready to answer all questions and make reservations for additional activities and services. Priority disembarkation gets guests off the ship quickly. A complimentary bottle of sparkling wine in the suite on arrival kicks off the cruise. A special pillow menu allows you to pick your ideal comfort. Suite guest perks while onboard also include complimentary room service from the dining room menu, and such food and beverage services as in-suite cocktails, morning tea and coffee service, daily delivery of fruit and canapés before dinner, and petit fours after dinner. Suite guests are also afforded complimentary shoeshine service, pressing, and unpacking/packing services. Dine When You Wish Celestyal Crystal has two main dining rooms (no reservations needed) and a buffet, serving a choice of both Greek and international cuisine. It also has one specialty restaurant, the Fish Tavern, open for dinner at an additional cost. A buffet breakfast each morning fueled us for the day of discovering the Greek Islands.
Celestyal Crystal Mykonos Santorini
Choose Your Entertainment & Activities Celestyal Crystal offered plenty of activities and entertainment onboard day and night. During the day, you can experience the Greek culture by participating in such fun activities as Greek wine tasting, language lessons, or dance lessons. After a day of exploring the ancient world, we were treated to nightly shows that, in most cases, included a Greek mythology-theme, or music, dancing, and singers. The ship’s intimate lounges and pool deck offered more options for music, including a Greek trio and piano players and other vocalists singing a range of music styles. There was also karaoke and dance parties for those looking for night-time fun and excitement. Customize Your Excursions Celestyal truly soars in its offerings of excursions with an abundance of choice. The cruise line understands that guests are traveling to explore this magnificent part of the world and aims to provide almost a tour-like experience but on water. The incredible onboard staff can help you select additional group excursions as well as set up special private tours and transfers if booked ahead of time. They’ll even suggest and make reservations at island restaurants for guests before boarding. We were able to do a mixture of included and additional group excursions and private tours. We felt as if our voyage was truly customized to our interests, that of a family of four, including our older teen and young adult daughters.
CELESTYAL IN 2020 Celestyal Cruises’ is extending its 2019 and 2020 season as the first step toward its goal of year-round sailing cruises. In 2020, Celestyal will continue its seven-night “Idyllic Aegean” on Celestyal Crystal from May through October. The ship will also sail on the seven-night “Eclectic Aegean” from April until early May and then again in October featuring multiple stops in Turkey and Greece. The “Three Continents Aegean” cruise, which will make its debut December 2019, on Celestyal Crystal will sail from the end of February through March and then again in late October through December 26th, with stops in Egypt, Israel, Cyprus, Greece, and Turkey. Celestyal will continue its three- and four-night “Iconic Aegean” cruises to Greece and Turkey on its sister ship, Celestyal Olympia, from March until November in 2020; it also offers a “Romantic Adriatic Cruise” itinerary with two options. In 2020, the 5-night choice in November is from Athens to Venice, and the 7-night December cruises are roundtrip from Venice, both with stops in Greece, Montenegro, and Croatia. —SZ NOVEMBER 2019 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 25
SEEING THE ANCIENT WORLD Arrival: Athens Adding on a hotel stay upon arrival in Athens is a must after a long flight from the U.S. and Celestyal can easily arrange it. We stayed at the Athenaeum Palace and Luxury Suites. The lovely modern hotel included an abundant complimentary breakfast and large, comfortable guest rooms. Though located half-way between the port and Athens’ city center, the property does provide complimentary shuttle service on select days and times to a stop near the Acropolis Museum. Other days, the front desk can arrange a cab to get you where you want to go. We opted to explore on our own our first day in Athens and headed to the Acropolis. The famed UNESCO World Heritage site is home to the Parthenon and looks down over the city. Post-cruise, Celestyal set up a private tour guide to accompany us to the Acropolis Museum. She added a considerable amount of perspective on the many sculptures and treasures housed in the impressive site. Days 1-2: Mykonos Arrival and Overnight Our first port, once onboard the ship, was an early morning arrival at Mykonos, where the ship stayed until the next morning. The port town with its classic Cycladic architecture glistened with whitewashed buildings and sky-blue doors and domes. After a few hours of strolling along the streets, Celestyal arranged a private taxi transfer to the family-friendly Ornos Beach with its calm waters and lunch on the beach at the trendy Kuzina restaurant. We spent the remainder of the day in the Little Venice area where we shopped and dined with a view at the restaurant within the Mykonos Theoxenia boutique hotel. Naturally, we took the requisite photos of the Mykonos windmills amidst a stunning sunset.
Parthenon temple and Monastiraki plaza, Athens.
Days 2-3: Mykonos Departure/ Milos Arrival After leaving Mykonos in the morning, we arrived in Milos early afternoon and stayed until midnight. We opted for “The Amazing Beaches Tour” group excursion, which transported us from the port to two separate beaches. We felt as if we were walking on the moon at the striking Sarakiniko with its greyish-white volcanic rock. The second beach stop on tour was Paleochori, dramatically different from Sarakiniko with tall red rocks and a stretch of sand. Instead of returning to the ship right away, we spent the early evening walking along the shops of the lovely port town in Milos. Days 4-5: Santorini Arrival and Overnight Stay An early morning arrival set up our stay for two full days in Santorini with an 11 pm departure on the second day. The first of Celestyal’s three included excursions is the “Spectacular Oia Village Perched on the Caldera Rim” tour. It brings you to Santorini’s famed cliffside city overlooking the magnificent Aegean Sea and caldera. You can return to the ship, or stay and explore more of Oia, including dinner and shopping, and its gorgeous sunset. The second day in Santorini we set off on an arranged private taxi ride to Perissa Beach. Thanks to Santorini’s past volcanic activity, Perissa boasts black lava sand. It was a lovely afternoon that included lunch at Ta Kavourakia Restaurant, where we were invited into the kitchen to view the fresh catch of the day. Heading back to the ship late that night, we took the cable car down from Fira to the tender transfer to the ship, offering yet again a spectacular view. Day 6: Heraklion, Crete With an early arrival and late departure in Heraklion, Crete, we decided on an excursion in the morning and beach time in the afternoon. Celestyal offers an included excursion to “Knossos Palace and the Archaeological Museum,” but we opted for the add-on excursion “Experience the Cretan Countryside and Cretan Lifestyle.” We started the day at the archaeological site, the Minoan Palace of Knossos, with a guide who was part of the excursion. Afterward, our motor coach took us to the traditional tiny Crete village of Stironas, where we visited a winery and met the wonderful and impassioned owner, Vasilis. We enjoyed watching traditional dancers and tasting snacks, wine, and raki. The highlight, however, was Vasilis’ animated description of the winemaking process and his love for his family. After the winery, the tour stopped in Heraklion for some shopping. We continued our exploration of Crete on our own with an arranged private transfer. If you want to go where the locals go and enjoy larger waves, Gournes Beach is the place to claim your spot in the white sand. Here, we ate lunch at Kima restaurant, a casual taverna facing the beach. Ephesus ©Tess Robin
Cretan Dancers at Winery ©Tess Robin
Day 7: Kusadasi, Turkey Our final port stop before returning to Athens took us beyond the Greek Islands to Kusadasi in Turkey. Though the shortest of our port stays with an early morning arrival and late afternoon departure, we maxed out our time with a private guide. Celestyal includes a shore excursion to the incredible Ephesus archaeological site. There is much to see of the ancient city, remarkably intact so much so that you can visualize its one-time residents of centuries ago walking along the marble-paved main street of Kouretes. The private guide added on with a visit to the wealthy families’ Terrace Houses, the oldest dating back to the 1st century BC. Following our tour of Ephesus, we drove with our private guide to the lovely hillside city of Sirince. We enjoyed an alfresco lunch at the boutique hotel Gullu Konaklari and shopping in town. At the end of the day, we sadly drove via private transfer back to the ship, which began its return to Athens and the end of the cruise. For more information on Celestyal Cruises, visit celestyalcruises.com. •
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The Preserve Club & Residences Adventure · Exclusivity · Serenity
New England’s Finest Four-Seasons Sporting Club & Luxury Residential Community • Real Estate Offerings include: Signature Residences, Townhomes on the Green, Hilltop Lodge Condominiums, and our Designer Cozy Cabins • 3500 ACRES • 4-season activities • Select Memberships and Residences Available Just 1 mile off I-95 • 2.5 Hours from NYC, 1 Hour from Boston • Tours by appointment
The adventure you’ve always wanted, the luxury you deserve. 87 Kingstown Rd, Richmond RI | ThePreserveRI.com | 401-539-4653
TRAVEL
Rooftop Pool Courtesy Resorts World Bimini
BEAUTIFUL BIMINI
IT’S CLOSER THAN YOU THINK, BUT FEELS A WORLD AWAY By Natasha Bazika
hinking short getaway with friends? Here’s a place that’s off-the-beaten-track and only a 25-minute flight from Miami. The waters are blue, the Mai Tai’s are bottomless, and treasures await. Bimini, which is known for attracting beachgoers, big game fishing, and even once the likes of Papa Hemingway—who briefly resided on the island—consists of a North and South Island. The North is where all the fun happens, from resorts to casinos and waterfront views, while the South Island is purely for exploring, adventures and underwater experiences. Whether you prefer a pamper, are looking to relax on the beach or want an adventure, Bimini has it all. Perfect for a girl’s getaway. ARRIVAL Bimini Bahamas Conch Salad
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If you’ve never flown on a seaplane, you’re missing out. I took off from a tar airstrip in Fort Lauderdale on a FlyTropic Seaplane, and 25-minutes later landed on a bed of turquoise waters, sandwiched between mossy green mangroves. My friends and I were whisked away from a dock to a bus, and in a mere 5 minutes, we arrived at our hotel, Resorts World Bimini. Even though it was a short trip, we felt a world away from the concrete jungle that is New York City, and it was the detox we all needed. The resort was our playground. The rooms are fitted with floor to ceiling windows, which seemed unnecessary considering we had a private terrace that looked out over the water anyway. There was a rooftop infinity pool with views of the entire resort—including the line of yachts docked—and a lazy river pool on the ground floor. It was the ideal backdrop for a relaxing weekend, but the resorts casino was also the liberty we were seeking. Down the road, the resort has The Beach Club, a casual restaurant and bar serving grilled Bahamian fare and of course, more Mai Tai’s. You can lounge on one of their day beds or grab a beach chair and relax by the ocean. What more could you want from a girl’s trip? After a long day of lounging around and eating, it was spa time. After all, we were here to cleanse our bodies of city life. The Serenity Spa was pure bliss. From a brightening facial to a deep tissue massage, there were no residual effects of the city life on us now. After the relaxing experience, food was next on our list. The Sushi Bar is a fantastic place for a choice from nigiri and sashimi to rolls and dumplings. The obvious choice here was a beautiful selection in a wooden boat covered in colorful raw delights, sushi rolls, and nigiri bites.
Guest Room Courtesy Resorts World Bimini
EXPLORING
The island is home to many treasures, including shipwrecks and several conch food stands, which in my opinion was a highlight of the trip. The resort offers golf carts to guests to use around the island, but if you’re nostalgic like me, I couldn’t pass up the opportunity to rent a bike and go for a ride around the island. We rode along the water, which seemed to fluctuate from light blue to verdant then to sky blue as we continued south on the north island. In only a few minutes we were in town, where we stumbled upon a conch shack. Bimini is perhaps, most famous for its conch salads and after trying three different ones, I can see why. The owner, who just arrived back from a day’s catch showed us how to get the conch out of the shell and prepare it for the salad. The locals on the island were kind, polite, and willing to share their local insights. We had followed a tip about this shipwreck not far from where we were. When we arrived, a large metal hull, that looked more like a skull than a seaworthy ship appeared half emerged in whitewash. According to the locals, this was the best place for the sunset, and they weren’t lying. The sky was on fire, and the gentle sounds of lapping waves turned the chaotic song of New York into white noise. Swimming with sharks and stingrays is almost mandatory, so we couldn’t wait to get up and out for a day of snorkeling and exploring. We headed to the Sapona shipwreck, a concrete-hulled cargo steamer that sunk in 1926 after running aground during a hurricane. Despite its tragic past, the wreck is a popular spot for tourists and sea creatures, such as sharks, dolphins, turtles and more. Even if you’re nervous about swimming, the wreck sits in only 15 feet of water, so even the most novice swimmer will enjoy this excursion. For anyone in your life who loves a thrill, the shark excursion is perfect for coming face to face with the ocean’s deadliest creatures. We jumped on a boat and traveled a few miles south of Bimini to Triangle Rocks, which is home to a local community of Caribbean Reef Sharks and Nurse Sharks. If you know anything about sharks—these are the more friendly kind. You can also take a boat to Honeymoon Harbor where you can swim, feed, and interact with stingrays. For more information on Resorts World Bimini, visit rwbimini.com; for FlyTropic, visit flytropic.com. • NOVEMBER 2019 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 29
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ULTIMATE TRAVEL
THE PERFECT PLACE AT THE RIGHT TIME By Norah Bradford
ew Yorkers like a challenge. How about three? When it comes to travel, it is not enough to find the right destination. It has to be the perfect hotel, and dinner—with a little fun too! Here are some of the best-of-the-moment travel destinations where you’ll find all three— and more! MIAMI Stay The whimsical Hotel Croydon is located just off Collins Avenue. Comfortable accommodations include seamless service, Tempurpedic beds, C.O. Bigelow bath products, in-house restaurant (The Tavern), complimentary cocktails nightly from 7 to 8 pm, a pool, yoga classes, and a rooftop deck with panoramic views of the ocean and city. Info: hotelcroydonmiamibeach.com. Eat Founded by restaurateur Myles Chefetz and located in the historic Browns Hotel, Prime 112 is a chef-driven boutique steakhouse that offers an innovative menu in a high-energy environment. From the excellent quality dryaged beef to elevated sides or appetizers, including the Truffled Lobster Mac and Cheese and Kobe Beef Sliders, Prime 112 only offers premium product selections. The atmosphere is lively with the hustle and bustle of the room, creating a collective dining atmosphere that is second to none. Info: mylesrestaurantgroup.com. See & Do At Art Basel Miami Beach see over 200 of the world’s leading international Modern and Contemporary art galleries display artworks—paintings, sculptures, photography, film, and digital art—by more than 4,000 artists. Visitors can find works ranging from editioned pieces by young artists to museumcaliber masterpieces. There is an equally daunting array of special events and viewing parties to jostle for invitations throughout the show, which runs from December 4th through 8th. Info: artbasel.com.
Hotel Croydon
PARIS Stay Located on the doorstep of the Tuileries Gardens, Le Meurice has been welcoming distinguished guests for almost 200 years. Today, its Versailles-style grandeur still attracts dignified travelers—especially to its newly refurbished suites and rooftop penthouse with 360-degree views of the iconic skyline. Info: dorchestercollection.com. Eat Chef Christian le Squer leads a team at Le Cinq that has held a prestigious three Michelin stars for three consecutive years. Nestled in the Four Seasons Hotel Paris George V, try one of the signature dishes of Dublin Bay Prawns with Warm Mayonnaise and Crunchy Buckwheat Pancakes, or Grilled Lamb with Chili Pepper Sauce. Info: fourseasons.com/paris.
Le Meurice
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See & Do Enjoy an operatic interpretation of the Shakespeare classic King Lear at the Paris Opera from November 21st through December 7th. In Calixto Bieito’s cathartic production, each of the characters is stripped bare: collective hysteria gives way to an older man’s solitude. Destroyed, like a new-born babe, he weeps to find “that we come to this great stage of fools.” Info: operadeparis.fr.
LAS VEGAS Stay In a city that thinks big, The Palazzo at The Venetian Resort offers guests the largest standard size suite on The Strip. The one-stop resort hotel in the center of town also features relaxing days at Canyon Ranch Spa + Fitness, dining options, including Wolfgang Puck’s CUT, as well as high-end shopping—and, of course, the casino. Info: venetian.com. Eat Venture over to the Cosmopolitan Hotel (cosmopolitanlasvegas.com), for a dining experience at Beauty & Essex that blends a Lower East Side Vibe with the glamour of Vegas. The speakeasy-style venue won’t disappoint with such dinner choices range from Alaskan King Crab Legs to Korean Fried Chicken. Info: beautyandessex.com. See & Do Take in a concert this New Year’s Eve with songwriter and performer extraordinaire Lady Gaga. Her Enigma concert is now at the Park Theatre inside the MGM Grand. From October 17th through May 16, 2020. Info: vegas.ladygaga.com.
The Palazzo Las Vegas
Kerridge’s Bar & Grill
LONDON Stay Situated in the heart of London, and minutes from the West End and River Thames, the Corinthia is within walking distance of most London attractions. The hotel recently partnered with celebrity aesthetician Barbara Sturm whose facials and products are available at the award-winning ESPA Life. Corinthia London is also a dining destination courtesy of Kerridge’s Bar & Grill. The Crystal Moon Lounge offers an idyllic atmosphere for afternoon tea. Info: corinthia.com/en/hotels/london. Eat For his first London restaurant, renowned Michelin-starred chef Tom Kerridge, along with head Chef Nick Beardshaw, has created a menu of classic dishes at Kerridges Bar and Grill. Expect a culinary experience in a stunning space reworked by The Studio. Enjoy Treacle Roasted Fillet of Beef with Chips or the St. Austell Bay Mussels Mariniere with Warm Stout. Info: kerridgesbarandgrill.co.uk. See & Do: Regents Street Christmas Lights Be sure to catch the official lighting of the Regents Street Christmas Lights on November 14th. Several stores will be open with special shopping events from 4 - 9 pm to kick start your holiday season shopping. Info: regentstreetonline.com.
DOMINICAN REPUBLIC Stay A member of The Leading Hotels of the World, Casa de Campo attracts affluent travelers with the offering of spacious hotel rooms, suites, and luxury villas. Expect gourmet cuisine and fine wines and spirits throughout the destination’s restaurants and bars, a 370-slip Marina & Yacht Club, Polo & Equestrian Club, La Terraza Tennis Center, and a 245-acre Shooting Club. For more than 40 years, this discreet enclave has been a favored escape for the world’s financial moguls, politicos, and Hollywood’s elite. Info: casadecampo.com.do.
Teeth of the Dog
Eat Designed by locally recognized architects, Minitas Beach Club & Restaurant is immersed in a tropical landscape offering sweeping views of the Caribbean Sea. Discover the expansive pool deck with its infinity pool, enjoy specialty house cocktails at the ocean view bar, or delight yourself with a memorable meal at the restaurant. Be sure to try the Grilled Seafood Platter with lobster, shrimp, octopus, and calamari. Info: casadecampo.com.do. See & Do Sign up for The Women’s Golf Getaway hosted by Suzy Whaley, President of the PGA of America. Whaley is recognized as one of the top 50 female instructors in the sport at Casa de Campo’s three golf courses, including the top-rated, “Teeth of the Dog” oceanside course. The competition will take place December 6th through 9th. Info: casadecampo.com.do. • NOVEMBER 2019 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 31
TRAVEL
SAYBROOK POINT INN, MARINA & SPA A CONNECTICUT WATERSIDE ESCAPE By Jeff & Stephanie Sylva
ocated in the picturesque coastal community of Old Saybrook, Connecticut, the historic Saybrook Point Inn, Marina & Spa offers guests an ideal spot to unwind and find solace and makes for a perfect fall getaway. Situated where the Connecticut River meets the Long Island Sound, the inn has rightfully earned the distinction as Yankee Magazine’s “Best Waterside Escape.” A HISTORY LESSON The history of this inn stretches back to 1871 when the Pease House operated a popular restaurant and hotel at Saybrook Point. A century later, a group of investors replaced the Pease House with a new resort and marina called Terra Mar. The resort and its noteworthy restaurant was touted as the place to be and even hosted members of the Rat Pack who were often seen on their yachts. Then in 1980, Louis and Mary Tagliatela bought the abandoned Terra Mar. Nine years later the Saybrook Point Inn began its tradition of providing guests a welcoming waterside respite. The award-winning restaurant, Fresh Salt, was added in 2011 and its full-service spa, Sanno, opened a year later.
SUITES & VILLAS The inn welcomes guests with an array of room choices. The Main Inn has 82 rooms which include comfortable standard to luxury junior and one-bedroom suites— many with private balconies. A number also have working fireplaces for those cooler nights. The nearby Three Stories and Tall Tales guest houses offer 14 unique rooms as well as spacious common areas that include full-sized kitchens, game rooms with pool tables, rooftop fire pits, and even a backyard bocce court. Most of the individually designed rooms offer a private balcony or deck. For more extended stays, the Marina Point Villas provide two bedrooms, two baths, private balconies, and fireplaces. Or for larger groups, the cozy South Cove Cottage has three bedrooms. For a truly unique experience, consider the Lighthouse Suite. Situated on the main dock, this suite boasts unobstructed views of the Long Island Sound and Connecticut River. With a living room, dining area, and kitchenette available, you have 900 square feet of space in what Connecticut Magazine voted “Most Romantic Place to Stay.” The Lighthouse Suite is available for nightly or weekly rentals from May through October. In addition to being an AAA Four-Diamond rated property, the resort has garnered numerous awards for its green initiative. The resort is also pet-friendly. 32 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | NOVEMBER 2019
WINE & DINE Saybrook Point’s waterside-escape theme is furthered by its excellent upscale casual restaurant, Fresh Salt. Whether inside in the sophisticated, nautically-themed dining room or on the outdoor deck highlighted by an inviting fire pit bar, the water views are great. The cuisine is just as fabulous. We recommend the Fresh Salt Sriracha Calamari (that is if you like a bit of heat). There’s also the regional Clam Chowder (a menu staple and offered year-round)—either New England- or Rhode Islandstyle. There’s even a combination of both! Make your main course memorable with Pan-Seared Sea Scallops with Lemon Risotto, Lobster, Asparagus, and Red Pepper Oil, or the Indian-Spiced Salmon featuring a tasty Tikka Masala Sauce. Fresh Salt’s Sunday Brunch is so popular, it’s garnered numerous awards. And there’s still time to stop in to the outdoor deck featuring the Marina Bar (open seven days a week during the summer and weekends through October) with live music Sunday through Thursday.
Marina Bar
Sanno Double Room
SPECIAL AMENITIES There’s plenty to do at Saybrook Point Inn. The yearround, heated indoor-and-outdoor saltwater pools and state-of-the-art fitness center will keep you active. Jump on one of the complimentary bikes and peddle across the scenic causeway to view the classic coastal mansions in the Fenwick neighborhood, including the former home of Katherine Hepburn. Take the free shuttle to town to stroll Old Saybrook’s quaint downtown with its many shops and eateries. Or use the Inn’s complimentary parking pass to Harvey’s Beach and enjoy some time walking along the beach. Make your stay even more relaxing with some pampering time at SANNO indulging in any of the spa’s extensive menu of services. Consider the “The Kate” Rose Wrap or the Atlantic OCEANE Memory body rituals. The Oxygen Therapy and the Arctic Berry Peel & Peptide Facial are popular esthetic skincare therapies. Before and after your treatment unwind in one of the peaceful relaxation rooms or the outdoor tranquility garden. Perhaps you plan to travel to Saybrook Point on your own boat. If so, the resort’s Marina (Connecticut’s only Five Bell Marina) has slips for boats up to 200 feet. Charters are also available seasonally for fishing and sunset cruises.
LOCAL ATTRACTIONS Located close by is Fort Saybrook Monument Park. Here you will discover the history of Saybrook Colony, founded in 1635. Take a peek at the spot marked by a plaque and where The Collegiate College was established in 1701. Soon after in 1718, the school moved to New Haven and renamed itself Yale University! Be sure to visit Katherine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center better known as “The Kate.” Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the center honors one of Saybrook’s most celebrated residents. The Saybrook Point Inn, Marina, and Spa is an approximate two-hour drive from New York City. It can also be reached by Amtrak to the Old Saybrook train station, where a free shuttle will transport you to the inn. For more information on Saybrook Point Inn, Marina & Spa, visit saybrook.com. • NOVEMBER 2019 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 33
TRAVEL
LAND OF 10,000 LAKES PUT MINNESOTA ON YOUR BUCKET LIST! By Jenny Peters
ven if you’ve never been to Minnesota (I hadn’t, until recently), every American knows that it is “the land of 10,000 lakes.” Escaping the big city and heading into the Brainerd Lakes area taught me that there’s a lot of fun to be had out in the countryside of Minnesota. My home base was the Grand View Lodge, Spa and Golf Resort, a most venerable place that has been welcoming guests since 1916. Perched on the shores of Gull Lake, about a 30-minute drive from Brainerd Airport (BRD), it’s right in the heart of the Lakes District and one of the most popular places to visit in the region.
HEAD NORTH The lodge, which already boasts rooms as well as 65 cabins and a number of garden cottages, has just added North, a sleek and beautiful 60-room boutique hotel on its property. The feel of the lodge and the other older parts of Grand View is rustic— think leather, plaid, and wood, with motifs of elk and bear scattered throughout. North is a whole new animal. Just steps from the lake, the lodge, and the beautiful spa facility, North is the kind of place where you want to settle into a comfy couch in the communal library space and watch the world go by. That’s an option, but there are so many things to do here. Whether on the sprawling 750 acres that make up Great View Lodge or beyond, you’ll probably want to get moving—especially if you’ve brought the family along to this kid-friendly outdoor paradise. 34 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | NOVEMBER 2019
Grand View Lodge North Hotel
YEAR-ROUND FUN
Minnesotans love the outdoors all year round, so no matter when you head “up north” (from Minneapolis to the Lakes District), there’s always something happening. At the resort, the beach beckons when the weather is warm, with volleyball nets, wildly exhilarating bananatubing rides (expect to get wet on those), leisurely pontoon boat cruises or rocketing jet skis awaiting your pleasure. You can go fishing, too, or grab a kayak or an inflatable SUP—or just jump in the lake for a swim. When fall arrives, the leaves offer up a riot of colors, making for a perfect time to head toward nearby Nisswa to the Brainerd Zip Line Tour. Here you can zoom through the trees on a seven-line zip tour that offers views for miles. You can also take a night zip trip to see the stars in all their brilliance. Or if you prefer terra firma, take an after-dark walk to glimpse the breathtaking Milky Way light up the sky on a clear night. Wintertime brings snowfalls freezing lakes (Roy Lake is also part of this vast wonderland). Develop your skills as you set your sights on ice fishing, snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, or snowshoeing across the chilly landscape. Just remember to bring your warmest clothes, for Minnesota in the winter is not for the faint of heart! There are ski resorts nearby, too; at Mount Ski Gull you›ll find runs for skis, snowboards and even a chance to ride glow-in-the-dark tubes down the slopes in the dark of night.
North Hotel Main Lobby
INDULGE YOURSELF
North Hotel Library
After a day filled with active outdoor adventures, there’s no need to go far to indulge yourself in an excellent meal, a spa treatment, or both. With two fine-dining restaurants, Cru and Char, you’ll find beautifully prepared dishes, many using locally sourced ingredients. Eating fresh Walleye is a must in this part of the country; pair that local fish with wines from around the world and beers from Minnesota’s finest breweries. Other more casual spots abound around the lodge, from sports bar pub food to Mexican, pizza, and more. Just know that if you hit their Glacial Waters Spa and choose the signature “The Indulgence” treatment (blueberry body scrub, serenity soak, hot-stone massage, body wrap, facial and foot massage), you may feel like rubber and may end up missing dinner! Fortunately, for the ultimate decadence after that blissful treatment, you can easily order a pizza delivered right to your room. So no matter what season you decide to jump into Minnesota’s Lake District, you’ll find lots to see and do. Or you can always switch off and sit on a deck chair, relaxing and reveling in the natural beauty that surrounds this lovely place. For more information on Grand View Lodge, visit grandviewlodge.com. •
NOVEMBER 2019 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 35
TRAVEL
Hotel du Cap
THE OETKER COLLECTION WHERE LUXURY MEETS ELEVATED GUEST EXPECTATIONS By Bailey Beckett
he Big Apple has its fair share of elegant hotels, but there is a discreet hotel group that caters to the most discerning New Yorkers: the Oetker Collection, a small collection of fivestar properties that dot the globe. From the Parisian palace Le Bristol to the South of France celeb-magnet Hotel du Cap in Cap Antibes, the little-known hotel group has refined first-class style almost in secret. You won’t see splashy ads or influencer campaigns: these destinations speak for themselves, which is just the way its President Frank Marrenbach likes it. The veteran hotelier has worked at properties including the Steigenberger Parkhotel in Düsseldorf, The Berkeley in London, and the Hôtel de Crillon in Paris before taking the helm of the group from its flagship property Brenners Park-Hotel & Spa in BadenBaden Germany. The often-honored executive named a “Leading Legend” by The Leading Hotels of the World, spoke with New York Lifestyles about the collection, the advantages of being family-owned (by the legendary Oetker family of Germany) and catering to demanding New Yorkers. What does the Oetker Collection represent? We are keen on offering excellence to our guests. It’s a journey offering bespoken experiences in extraordinary locations that linger in your heart long after you have crossed the threshold of your own home. With nine iconic properties located in the U.K., France, Germany, the Caribbean, and Brazil along with nine “Masterpiece Estates,” Oetker Collection embodies the finest of luxury European hospitality. How are New Yorkers different from other travelers throughout the world who visit your hotels? New Yorkers are very attentive to the high quality of service but also keen on technology. They always expect the very best and are the most discerning travelers. They want to be pampered and recognized and pay attention to every detail. What do you do better than anyone else? I’m not sure what we do better, but I’m sure of one thing—we do it right! And above anything, I think passion will always win. Our hotels and estates are full of passionate teams; passionate people who love what they are doing. The company has such a curated, pristine collection of hotels. What do you look for when adding a property? The exquisite beauty of the surroundings, the serenity of the place, the impeccable service. The DNA of the existing properties and culture. As the custodians of culture, we must embrace the place. How does being privately held benefit your brand? Oetker Collection is family-owned, and we are very proud to be an independent company. Together with my executive team, we make the right decisions and work together on the global strategy according to the family’s wishes. We always take a long-term view. For more information on the Oetker Collection, visit oetkercollection.com. • 36 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | NOVEMBER 2019
Frank Marrenbach
TRAVEL
THE RITZ-CARLTON REYNOLDS, LAKE OCONEE A CALL TO THE WILD & WONDERFUL By Darren Paltrowitz
ocated about 75 miles from Atlanta, Reynolds Lake Oconee is unlike any travel destination you’ll ever experience. Set on 30 acres of shoreline, The Ritz-Carlton Reynolds, Lake Oconee is also home to six championship golf courses, a world-class spa, a world of fine dining, and just about every outdoor activity under the sun. THE ACCOMMODATIONS
The Ritz-Carlton Reynolds, Lake Oconee is gorgeous. The guest rooms, suites, and cottages (with full kitchens)—are all outfitted with cushy feather beds, marble trim bathrooms, and stately wood furniture. The luxurious setting offers every amenity imaginable, including HD TVs equipped with Chromecast— making it simple to stream your favorite movies. And with plush towels and toiletries from London-based Asprey, you may feel like royalty. Most accommodations feature balconies facing either the lake or garden, reminding one that you are genuinely in the midst of gorgeous natural surroundings.
THE SPA
Presidential Suite
The full-service spa focuses on using local, Georgia products in their many spa treatment options, which include facials, massage, wraps, manicures/pedicures, and haircuts. There are also multiple relaxation lounges, a 24-hour fitness center (offered complimentary to all hotel guests), and an indoor pool. The spa also features a “Gent’s Den,” with a variety of whiskeyinspired spa treatments, flat-screen televisions broadcasting sports games, and a traditional barbershop. The spa is over 27,000 square feet in size and regularly offers specials. A spa reservation agent is available to help each guest choose their perfect treatment.
NOVEMBER 2019 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 37
DINING
Although there’s always the 24-hour room service available, venture out to the many dining options offered to guests. You’ll find everything from pizza to a strip steak on the menu—done to perfection. Georgia’s provides a relaxed atmosphere with food created from local and regional products. Open for breakfast and dinner; it’s famous for the vegetarian menu and as well as the handcrafted cocktails and desserts. Linger Longer Steakhouse is a traditional steakhouse open for lunch and dinner. Choose from a large selection of dry-aged steaks or fish specialties. Don’t forget the souffle. Also try Chiminea Dining which provides dinner created for two and served in front of a bonfire lakeside. The Barrel Room is an evening-only experience where handcrafted cocktails are served along with appetizers. Don’t miss the live music on Friday and Saturdays. S’mores By The Campfire is a mustdo. No reservations needed here. Just sit around the fire pit and enjoy the cooler evenings as you roast marshmallow, melt chocolate, and meet new friends.
Creek Club Hole ©Joann Dost
THE GOLF COURSES
The Ritz-Carlton Reynolds has five attached golf courses for guest use. Four are 18 holes (The Landing, The Preserve, The Oconee, and Great Waters), while one is 27 holes (The National). The courses were all designed by well-known architects of golf courses—Bob Cupp, Jack Nicklaus, Rees Jones, and Tom Fazio—and all are par 72. Golf packages and caddie services are available, and hotel guests should contact the Guest Relations Team or the dedicated golf advisor to schedule a tee time.
OTHER SPORTS & ACTIVITIES
There is always something happening at Reynolds Lake Oconee: The Sporting Grounds Creek includes a 20-station sporting clays course, a five-stand shooting range, an air rifle range, an archery range, fishing, kayaking, canoeing, and hiking. However, if you get a chance, head into the town of Greensboro, where you’ll find plenty of shops and the Oconee Brewing Company with a tasting room and a 3,600-square-foot event space. The Oconee Brewery takes a farm-to-table approach to its beers. For more information on The Ritz-Carlton Reynolds, Lake Oconee, visit ritzcarlton.com. • 38 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | NOVEMBER 2019
REAL ESTATE & YOUR HOME
AROUND TOWN PARK SLOPE By TJ Johnson
ew York City’s most populous borough, Brooklyn, is home to nearly 2.6 million residents. And if it were an independent city, it would be considered the fourth largest city in the United States. While Brooklyn has become the epitome of “cool and hip” in recent years, for those that were born here, and improved communities over the years, it has never been uncool. You might say that most Brooklynites think the world is merely catching up to what they’ve always known. The diversity of this borough is mirrored in one of its neighborhoods, Park Slope, a hotbed for innovation, culture, and history. Park Slope is the most significant historic neighborhood. Here, you can find everything from brownstones nestled on tree-lined streets to some large contemporary condominiums featuring loads of amenities. The community is known for its excellent schools, fun nightlife, and great restaurants, not to mention my favorite Prospect Park! This acreage is one of the most magnificent parks in the five boroughs. Spending many after-work evenings doing laps on my bike, preparing for the NYC Marathon, or just attending the fantastic concerts and events conducted year-round is an urban treasure and the best in my eyes. 40 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | NOVEMBER 2019
613 Baltic Exterior
NEW ADDITIONS Like the rest of the city, Park Slope is brimming with new developments and has much to offer. Here, some of the condominium buildings which are making this neighborhood even more spectacular. 613 Baltic Street Baltic’s luxury condominiums are a rare chance to live in unparalleled quality in the heart of Park Slope. Newly constructed, Baltic is a boutique building offering sophisticated design, beautiful finishes, superior construction quality, and desirable amenities. Wrought in a unique brick, it integrates marble, granite, and quartz along with rich stained oak and walnut timber. The result is a beautiful modern residential building steeped in a historic architectural tradition. Designed by VOA Associates, the condo features 44 units of 2-to 3-bedroom residences which range from 1,044 to 1,528 square feet. The eleven-story building includes such amenities as a two-level landscaped garden and terrace as well as a residents’ rooftop terrace with grilling and dining areas, fitness center, lounge, and outdoor cinema. Pricing: $1.5 million to $2.75 million. 251 First Street In this building, when a unit becomes available, it doesn’t remain on the market for long. So, if this is the building you want to call home, I would keep a close eye for any future sales. 251 First Street offers modern homes inspired by the historic brownstones of Park Slope. Featuring unique layouts, serial setbacks, and private outdoor spaces, the residences of 251 First embody a 21stcentury iteration of an ideal home, in a perfect neighborhood. It’s a first, on First. The 2-to 4-bedroom condominium residences are by ODA Architecture. Amenities include a 24-hour concierge, private gym, children’s playroom, residents’ lounge, landscaped courtyard, common roof terrace, stroller room with valet, and bicycle storage. Pricing: $1.29 million to $2.5 million.
251 First St Exterior
DINING OUT
251 First St Open Floor Plan
If you are interested in living in Park Slope or any of the five boroughs, contact me and The StarrJohnson Team of Brown Harris Stevens who are always here for all your buying and selling needs. Thelonious “TJ” Johnson Licensed Real Estate Salesperson Brown Harris Stevens Residential Sales, LLC Partnering Worldwide 130 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY 10011 Direct: 212-317-3687; Cell: 646-236-7901; Fax: 212-319-3925 Email: tjohnson@bhsusa.com Visit him: bhusa.com/thelonioustjjohnson Member of Luxury Portfolio International Member of the Real Estate Board of New York
Brooklyn is not only known for its historic brownstones and new developments, but is the cornerstone of great cuisine. If you should be in the neighborhood, why not try one of these favorites. Al di la Trattoria It’s considered the best Italian restaurant in Park Slope and is a must-do if you’re anywhere near Fifth Avenue. Make sure you pay attention to the select menu as well, because it is always delicious and never disappoints. It is a family owned restaurant with Northern Italian cuisine served in an old world-inspired dining room featuring a wine bar. Info: aldilatrattoria.com. Bogata Latin Bistro Often called “Brooklyn’s Hottest Latin Restaurant,” they are open every day for lunch & dinner and serve an excellent brunch on weekends. Latin-inspired/ Colombian dishes and drinks including mojitos, caipirinhas, and imported Latin American wines and beers in a fun, funky and casual environment. Don’t miss the Bandeja Paisa, Arroz Con Pollo, Empanadas, and other Colombian classics. They try to lead the way in what New York City Latin restaurants, food, and service should be about. Info: bogatabistro.com. •
NOVEMBER 2019 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 41
50 years of What works.
Joe Lamb, Jr. & Associates has a long, reliable history in providing quality services to Outer Banks homeowners in the Vacation Rental market. In this fast growing industry it is important to find a company that you can trust. Since 1968 our name has been synonymous with expert property management services. We proudly blend tradition with innovation to create the perfect formula for success. Our skillful team of professionals promote your property with a responsive design website, competitive marketing strategies and high quality PM software. We provide flexible strategies to ensure that each rental property is performing at the top of the market and consistently stay ahead of trends. Joe Lamb Jr. & Associates is the perfect choice for your investment because we know what works.
Vacation Rentals Real Estate Sales Property Management Contact us today to join in on the OBX tradition and learn more about our services. joelambjr.com • 800-552-6257
REAL ESTATE & YOUR HOME
THE SYMON
The Symon Living Room
LUXURY ARRIVES IN BROOKLYN By AP Connolly
he Symon is the new boutique luxury condominium offering contemporary residences with an elevated design sensibility adjacent to the Brooklyn Heights Historic District. Located at 76 Schermerhorn, between Court Street and Boerum Place, the 13-story full-service building brings a sophisticated retreat to one of the borough’s most popular living destinations. Developed in partnership with Lonicera Partners, Orange Management and The Davis Companies, the highly anticipated condominium recently topped out and is being readied for first closings in less than a year.
“Honoring its remarkable surroundings and distinguished architecture of Brooklyn Heights, we’re excited to unveil The Symon, which brings a beautiful and design-conscious,” said Steve Rutter, Head of New Development New York at Compass Development (Stribling Marketing Associates), who is exclusively handling sales and marketing for the building. “In addition to the idyllic residential neighborhood just outside your door, the location provides access to Brooklyn’s best dining, retail, cultural venues, and parks, as well as the best transportation hubs in New York City.” The name The Symon is a nod to the patriarch of the Schermerhorn family, whose aristocratic mercantile legacy dates back to the founding of Brooklyn Heights in the 1600s. The Schermerhorn’s were known for their incredible entrepreneurial success, a deep sense of civic duty, and enormous philanthropic efforts. The Symon celebrates the confluence of history, culture, and commerce that make the neighborhood one of the best in New York City. The Symon
THE BUILDING
The Symon was designed by Studio DB the New York-based firm led by husband and wife Damian and Britt Zunino known for custom home portfolio and high-end interiors work. “Our vision for The Symon is deeply rooted in the rich story of Brooklyn Heights,” said Britt and Damian Zunino. “We drew inspiration from historic buildings and elements throughout the neighborhood while infusing contemporary details throughout. It was important to us to reference the past with contextual exterior finishes and traditional interior design motifs, but to do so through a modern lens.” The Symon’s captivating facade marries luxurious, natural materials with classic detailing to evoke the character and distinction of the neighborhood’s treasured townhouses and grand apartments. With its distinctive arched windows, prominent canopied entryway and hand-laid brick, The Symon’s façade makes a stately presence along Schermerhorn’s charming streetscape. Upon entering the building, the 24/7 attended lobby is accentuated with signature design elements including hand-painted wall coverings, custom oak paneling, marble floor patterns modeled on classic marquetry, and select furnishings taken from modern and Old World collections.
NOVEMBER 2019 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 43
THE RESIDENCES
The Symon’s 59 one-to-four-bedroom contemporary homes boast exquisite features. One-of-a-kind entry foyers with large solid panel doors, crown molding accents, eight-inch baseboards and inlaid wood flooring medallions with a basket-weave motif top the list. Oversized divided-light windows and custom washed-oak floors fill each residence with natural light and warmth. Graciously proportioned kitchens feature custom raised-panel cabinetry, marble countertops, and high-end appliances, while bathrooms offer refined material selections, diamond tile patterns and master bath fixtures in antique brass from Waterworks. Additionally, select residences offer private outdoor space; expansive terraces come complete with gas grills, including three penthouses that crown the top of the building.
THE AMENITIES
A carefully curated amenity selection will be available to future residents at The Symon including a hotel-like private lounge which boasts an urbane amalgam of contemporary and vintage décor. The rooftop terrace will be beautifully landscaped offering scenic vistas of the neighboring historic district, providing a lofty getaway for relaxation and intimate social gatherings. Additionally, a state-of-theart gym outfitted with Peloton fitness equipment, a children’s playroom, storage, and bicycle spaces for purchase are offered. A limited number of on-site private, indoor automatic parking spots are also available for purchase.
The Symon Lobby The Symon Bathroom
44 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | NOVEMBER 2019
THE NEIGHBORHOOD
Located within a half-block of the Brooklyn Heights Historic District, The Symon boasts immediate access to the enchanting streets and beautiful townhouse blocks with exquisitely preserved architecture. Just minutes away, The Symon is near the heart of Downtown Brooklyn, the commercial and cultural backbone of the borough. Together, these two neighborhoods provide residents with the unbeatable combination of serene residential surroundings along with convenient access to world-class cultural venues including the Brooklyn Academy of Music and Barclays Center, unparalleled green space including Brooklyn Bridge Park and The Promenade. Getting around is easy with access to 13 subway lines. Besides, there is a plethora of local conveniences ranging from Apple and Equinox to Whole Foods and Trader Joes, as well as an array of beloved local culinary and nightlife establishments. A rare combination of high design and value, pricing for The Symon begins from just under $800,000. The sales gallery is located at 130 Clinton Street. For more information on The Symon, visit theesymom. com or call 212-404-7676. •
“ P i n e s L a k e” Wa y n e , N J 1076 Pines Lake Drive Beautiful lakefront home with an inground pool that overlooks the lake! This spacious home features soaring ceilings in many rooms and walls of windows to capture the view! The 2 story entry foyer opens to the 2 story living room with a dual fireplace and flows into the family room overlooking the lake. There are doors to the rear patio and pool. The kitchen with an island and breakfast bar opens to the lovely dining area with a wall of windows framing the view. The formal dining room, a billiard room and a den complete the first floor entertaining / living space. A second floor master has a stunning view, a private deck, a walk in closet dressing area PLUS a new bath. An adjacent bedroom connects to a bonus room, plus there are 2 additional bedrooms, a full bath, 4 car tandem garage and waterfront dock. Enjoy the Pines Lake lifestyle! Offered at $1,399,000
1058 Pines Lake Drive Upon entering you are immediately WOWED by the high ceilings and the expansive views of Pines Lake! The open concept floor plan features a gourmet kitchen with a huge island plus a dining area with glass doors opening to a beautiful covered balcony. This space flows into the family room with a fireplace & all are enhanced by walls of windows with stunning views across the back of the house. A formal dining room is great for entertaining & includes a large butler’s pantry. The entry foyer features a dual fireplace that also opens into the living room. Wake up to the water view in the gorgeous master bedroom suite with a private balcony, spa bath, walk in closet & a custom barrel ceiling with cove lighting. There are 3 additional bedrooms, a full bath & laundry on the second floor. The finished lower level adds lots of entertaining space with a game room, wet bar, plus a gym & full bath, which could become a bedroom suite. Glass doors access a covered patio. Plus a waterfront dock! Come see the beautiful lifestyle of lakefront living! Easy NYC commute! Offered at $1,459,000
204 Pines Lake Drive Lakefront beauty with STUNNING VIEWS of Pines Lake from huge windows throughout. The 2 story foyer is a lovely intro to the beautiful Great Room with a wall of windows to frame the waterfront views & gorgeous sunsets. The flow to the kitchen & the dining room make this easy entertaining space. Exterior doors from the kitchen & the great room access the screened in porch that overlooks the lake & property. The second floor Master suite has the most incredible view. The spacious room with tray ceiling has his & hers shared walk in closet, spa bath, PLUS a private deck. There are 3 additional spacious bedrooms on the second floor, one features an ensuite bath, another has a private deck. Plus 2nd floor laundry. The grade level game room with a wet bar has access to rear patio, lakefront & hot tub. There is a 5th bedroom & full bath that is an ideal guest suite. 3 car garage with 1 tandem bay allows for 4 cars or boat. Waterfront dock with electric. Offered at $1,385,900
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FEATURES
THROUGH THE LENS Photography By AnnieWatt.com
Whether it is a charitable cause, a magazine cover, or a special occasion, the photographers with AnnieWatt.com make an occasion more memorable. Annie and her associate photographers 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.
14+ FOUNDATION COCKTAIL BENEFIT
Ken Hason, Sarah Verman, Ron Meier Vinay Adenwala, Ian Murphy
Dancing
Robert Elegba, Roxanne Peters, Shamsa Sultan, Safa Taryam, Sunil Dayal, Nick Hays
Mara Johnston, Paul Johnston Santigold
Derek Forger, TK Wonder, Cipriana Quann, Joseph Mizzi
Martin Kesselman, Alex Polier, Gabrielle Golenda
Students
Joseph Mizzi, Nchimunya Wulf, Derek Fordjour
Matt Semino, Linette Semino
Young Prince
46 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | NOVEMBER 2019
BROADWAY BACK TO SCHOOL HONORING MARC SHAIMAN AND SCOTT WITTMAN
Carla Stickler Scott Wittman, Patti LuPone, Marc Shaiman Chita Rivera, Julie Cohen Theobald
Thespian All-Star Company And Creative And Technical Staff
Chita Rivera
Evan Ruggerio
Tom Viola, Robert E. Wankel
Harvey Zirofsky, Dr. Sharon Dunn, Freddie Gershon, Myrna Gershon
Laura Benanti, Gavin Creel
Scott Wittman, Julie Cohen Theobald, Marc Shaiman
Crystal Demure, Laura Benanti
Technical Staff
NOVEMBER 2019 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 47
CODA SUMMIT IN EL PASO TEXAS
Gusto Requena Martha Peters, Christopher Janney
Sara Isasi, Toni Sikes
Steve Blanchette, Toni Sikes, Antoine Clayette
Ilene Shaw, Nick Anderson
Melissa Valentin, Julia Tsai, Brandon Stump
Mitch Leathers, Paul England
Christiane Paul, Jonathan Brown
Erwin Redl, Coco Torre, Venny Torre, Catherine Cathers, Patricia Romeu
Itzel Barraza
Kevin Caron, Mary Westheimer, Christopher Newman, Nancy DeDakis
48 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | NOVEMBER 2019
Morgan Robinson, Cathy Chen
FOUR IN HAND CLUB EVENTS AT WETHERSFIELD
Claire Reid
Donald Tober, Barbara Tober
Pauwla Groenewoud, Sem Groenewoud
Francis Baker, Wayne Baker
Donald Tober, Linsday Grant, Russell Grant
Bill Richards
Karen Klopp, John Klopp
Jamie O’Rourke, Theodora Stillman Budnik, Herbert Kohler
Karen Kelly, Donald Tober, Barbara Tober, Claire Reid, Jim Webster
Sharon Butterfield, Timothy Butterfield NOVEMBER 2019 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 49
NEW YORK WOMEN’S FOUNDATION COCKTAIL PARTY
Lola C. West, Audrey Smaltz
Jean Shafiroff, Ana Oliveira, Joyce Cowin
Ana Oliveira, Suki Terada Ports, Julianna Pereira, Lola C. West
Ana Oliveira, Toni Labelle
Anne Delaney, Henry Johnson, Suzanne Johnson
Danielle Schafer, Gabrielle Ferrara, Anne Delaney,
Alejandra Naranjo, Renee Landegger, Penelope Kokkinides, Janet Nelson, Margaret Murphy
Heather Kidde, Marina Mary, Jackie Garrod, Jonathan Young
Janos Marton, Kathy Canning, Julianna Pereira, Yusill Scribner, Aman Loonba, Upneete Bines
50 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | NOVEMBER 2019
Ruth Miller, Jane Cher, Regina Kravitz
Suki Terada Ports
Suzanne Johnson, Ronnie Ringel, Henry Johnson
YAGP HOSTS MARIINSKY BALLET
Nadezhda Batoeva, Konstantin Zverev, Yuri Fateev, Laura Lobdel, Alexander Sergeyev, Anastasia Nuykina, Maria Shirinkina, Alexei Timofeyev, Xander Parish
Carolina von Humboldt, Tony Bechara, Primi Chang
Christian Zimmermann, Richard Kielar, Christine Shevchenko, Alex Dimattia, Richard Osterweil Aaron Franklin, Calvin Royal
Adrienne Vittadini, Gianluigi Vittadini, Kristina Kingston
Anastasia Nuykina, Nadezhda Batoeva, Konstantin Zverev, Maria Shirinkina, Alexei Timofeyev, Sergey Gordeev, Xander Parish
Emily Mohr, Cole Rumbough
Laura Lobdell
Melvin Lawovin, Chloe Misseldine, Patrick Frenette
Michelle Gerber Klein, Terri Agins, Paul Hands
Xander Parish, Judith M Hoffman, Alexander Sergeyev
Yuri Fateev, Anastasia Nuykina, Maria Shirinkina, Nadezhda Batoeva NOVEMBER 2019 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 51
FEATURES
BITS & BAILEY
THE WHO, WHAT & WOW OF THE LUXE SCENE By Bailey Beckett
heers, dears. I’m writing this month’s dispatch from Vitae, the sexy-cool midtown restaurant by Chef Edwin Bellanco, which celebrates its 8th anniversary this coming winter. As I sip (ok, gulp) an Italian 2011 Barolo at its uber-chic bar, I am contemplating my fall social calendar, while noticing a piece of lint on my new Burberry cashmere scarf. It reminds me of my stunning wardrobe that will also be front and center, as you might expect. Priorities, reader. Priorities. Hence this month’s lifestyle diary by yours truly. HURRAY FOR VITAE There’s a reason I’m here, folks. I fell upon this Midtown maven during a leisurely walk down 5th Avenue and was taken in by its nonchalant signage and entry. But lo and behold, there is little modesty about this culinary mecca. Led by Bellanco, who is both proprietor and chef, Vitae is a rarity in the restaurant scene: combining Michelin-star quality food in a sophisticated yet casual setting. The décor is worthy of a Vogue photo shoot and the menu traditional but surprising—pulled pork tacos!—which makes Vitae the perfect spot for a working lunch or casual, after-work dinner and/or drinks. Bellanco, a veteran of French Laundry, Gramercy Tavern, Bouley Cru and Danube, is that rare maestro whose food is exquisite without pretension, avoiding labels like “farm to fork” (most food is, duh) and fads that start with foam for filling. The menu consists of satisfying fine-dining worthy foods. Consider Bailey impressed. Info: vitaenyc.com.
GO BREAKING MY HEART Even Elton John would be impressed by the ultra-exclusive Flagler Club at The Breakers Palm Beach, the vacation magnet on the tony south Florida island. A hotel-within-a-hotel, this unique experience raises hoteling to the stratosphere. Re-imagined as an intimate yet 25-room guest house nestled in a beachside estate, Flagler Club is a private access experience located on its own floor with breathtaking views of the resort’s spectacular palm tree-dotted driveway. “We wanted to create a new premium at The Breakers for guests who wish to invest in a truly intimate and extraordinary VIP experience,” said Tricia Taylor, senior vice president & general manager of The Breakers. “Inspired by our guest’s evolving expectations, Flagler Club was conceived as a modern enclave of private access—a service-intensive boutique hotel with numerous, best-in-class amenities.” Even before departing New York, I was contacted by Flagler Concierge inquiring about my needs and preferences (it’s a long list, folks). Upon arrival, I was greeted by another Flagler folk, who whisked me to the check-in desk for their special arrivals. There, I spied a buffet worthy of a billionaire, from Belgian waffles to hot, fluffy pastries, morning charcuterie and a well-attuned staff. Within minutes, I was transferred to The Flagler Club—in style! The rooms on the Flagler Club floor are unique Breakers-style: light, bright stylish (think color palette of crisp off-white base with accents of blues, beiges and browns) and brimming with luxurious amenities: PranaSleep beds, Frette linens and robes, rainforest showerheads, Jo Malone bath amenities and even a curved Samsung Smart television set. What separates the Flagler Club apart is its intimacy. After a day at the beach or pool, you can retreat to a quiet, stylish setting where four meal presentations are provided throughout the day. At night, you can indulge in a cocktail, too. After ordering my usual Macallan 12, I was met with my favorite quote of all time: “Would you prefer Macallan 18?” Sold!!!!! Info: thebreakers/ accommodations/flagler-club. 52 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | NOVEMBER 2019
VROOM TO THIS BLOOM Two of Bailey’s must-stops in New York: Loews Regency New York Hotel on Park Avenue and Bloomingdales, the shopping mecca also on the Upper East Side. Now, imagine them together. Ho-ho-go! Starting late November, the beloved department store will be sponsoring a “Pop Up” shop inside the Regency, featuring a selection of holidaythemed items keeping in mind today’s stylish traveler. Whether a seasonal gift, accessory, or even Bloomingdale-branded present, the shop combines the experience with on-site monogramming of leather gifts by ROYCE New York. “Bloomingdale’s has been a great partner of ours for the past few years,” said John Maibach, Managing Director of The Regency. “We are constantly looking for new ways to provide our guests with seamless and unique experiences, and we believe this partnership offers a new and fresh take on the hotel gift shop.” Info: loewshotels.com/regency-hotel. ©Gabriel Barreto Bentin
HIS NAME IS BAILEY … and he’s officially a fan of Her Name Was Carmen, a restaurant founded by Thatcher Schultz and Andres Diaz that combines seafood with culinary inspiration from countries in Latin America. Witness a menu of delicacies like Salmon Crudo, Tuna Majaja, and Hamachi Tiradito. “Each dish is created with a Peruvian soul, but perfected with a French technique,” says Chef Omar Ben Hammou, inspired by his training in Peru and work in kitchens across Latin America (he also worked with worldrenowned French chef Eric Ripert. “I’ve been lucky enough to cook and train all around the world, but nothing gets me more excited than bringing food from my native South America to New York City.” Equally as enticing is its wine program, mastered by Sommelier Yuval Bar-Kokhb. Its menu includes selections from oceanic regions in Mallorca, Sierras de Malaga, Galicia, and Uruguay, among other places. Housed in an upscale two-story venue located on Broome Street in the heart of West Soho, Her Name Was Carmen embodies the essence of Latin America culture by fusing an outstanding culinary experience with an exuberant social scene. Info: carmennyc.com.
AND FINALLY Bailey is obsessed with the new Felice inside the Chambers Hotel on West 56th Street off 5th Avenue. Serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner, the restaurant brings its legendary Tuscan to midtown, featuring classics by Chef Adrian Kercuku. My favorite is the Fusilli Cavolo Nero e Salsiccia. The ample, two-level space is large and stunning, including a landscape watercolor mural by Italian painter Fiona San Giuliano. Info: felicenyc.com. • NOVEMBER 2019 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 53
FEATURES
TECH TALK
KITCHEN ITEMS YOU NEVER KNEW YOU NEEDED By Will Reed
hanksgiving dinner is the most rigorous cooking day of the year. From basting the perfect turkey to entertaining friends and family, making sure the day goes off without a hitch can sometimes be stressful. Luckily, having the latest gadgets on hand in the kitchen can make the job of cooking and preparing dinner much more manageable. Here, some of the newest tech tools made for easy holiday prep. SALTON NUTRICHEF KITCHEN ISI Ceramic Electric Gravy Boat No more running back and forth between the table and kitchen to get hot gravy. The Ceramic Gravy Boat keeps your favorite recipe at the perfect serving temperature. The elegant ceramic design compliments all tableware, and a detachable cord makes for a clean look. It’s also ideal for hollandaise, cheese sauce, melted butter, and even ice cream toppings. Info: salton.com.
Smart Bluetooth Thermometer Perfectly cooked turkey is in your future with this Smart Bluetooth Thermometer. Likely to be the most important of all the kitchen gadgets that make Thanksgiving dinner perfect, this tech tool features leavein metal probes that are connected to an app on your phone. When it reaches the pre-set temperature, you’ll be notified. How easy it that? Info: nutrichefkitchen.com.
Professional Cream Whipper Making a pie for dessert this holiday? It will probably taste even better with a big dollop of whipped cream. The trouble is that whipped cream is especially tricky to prepare if you don’t have a mixer. Solution: The Professional Cream Whipper. It’s easy to use, easy to clean, and dishwasher-safe. Plus, it even comes with a decorator tip, so those pies will look as pretty as they are tasty. Info: isi.com.
BETTY CROCKER
CHAR-BROIL
HOT LOGIC
STARFRIT
Buffet Server This serving tray makes it possible all of your creations stay warm—even for that last person left. The stainless steel Buffet Server keeps foods and liquids warm for up to three hours. Within the tray are three serving vessels each holding 2.5 quarts. The clear, see-through lids display the food items, but they are cool to the touch. Info: bettycrocker.com.
Big Easy Oil-Less Turkey Fryer For those deep-fried turkey lovers, cook your holiday turkey to the same delectable moistness as a standard deep-fryer. With efficient infrared heat, the Big Easy Oil-Less Turkey Fryer cooks your bird evenly and quickly, taking only eight to ten minutes per pound. No oil is used, which means you can use your favorite marinades and rubs. Info: charbroil.com.
Mini Portable Oven Taking a hot Thanksgiving side dish with you when you visit friends or family? Keep it warm—and avoid battling for oven time when you arrive—with this insulated tote featuring an aluminum lining. There are no timers or temperature settings to worry about. Just place your meal in any flat-bottom, sealed lid container, drop it in the Mini Portable Oven, plug in, and it done! Info: hotlogicmini.com.
Electric Rotato Express The Rotato Express is the amazing new peeling machine that automatically peels away potato skins, fruit, and other vegetables in just seconds! It’s so sensitive it can even peel the skin off tomatoes! Plop on a vegetable or fruit, peel it, and pare it in 10 seconds flat. It shuts off automatically when completed. Info: starfrit.com. •
54 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | NOVEMBER 2019
HOLIDAY TRAIN SHOW
®
November 23 – January 26 New York City’s favorite holiday tradition is back!
Founding Sponsors
VICTORIA and ROBERT ZOELLNER
Sponsors
LuEsther T. Mertz Charitable Trust
nybg.org
REAL ESTATE & YOUR HOME
THE CENTRALE
FIVE-STAR LIVING IN MIDTOWN By AP Connolly
oaring over 800 feet, The Centrale rises above Midtown as a new icon that has forever changed the skyline. Designed by Pelli Clarke Pelli, this 71-story Art Deco-inspired masterpiece is the perfect example of how modern architecture can blend seamlessly with classic styles from the past. Intricately detailed, Ceruzzi Properties elevates luxury living with The Centrale, offering the rare opportunity to own one of 124 exclusive homes crafted by the internationally revered Champalimaud in the epicenter of New York City. Residents are assured the utmost in privacy thanks to the convenient and discrete arrival experience through a dramatic porte-cochere, spanning from 50th to 49th Streets, which also grants direct access to the lobby. An on-site 24 hour attended garage allows residents to return home with ease effortlessly. “The Centrale is located on 50th street, the home of some of Manhattan’s most iconic landmarks—namely Saks Fifth Avenue, Rockefeller Plaza, Radio City Music Hall, St. Patrick’s Cathedral—and now The Centrale,” said Gail Sankarsingh, Sales Director for The Centrale. “Residents will have access to it all, from dazzling city life in Midtown’s epicenter to the intimacy of a luxury hotel experience thanks to the full-service amenities, exceptional views, and the quality of finishes.” Upon entrance, residents are greeted with Alexandra Champalimaud’s crisp interiors inspired from her vast experience designing the world’s finest 5-star hotel interiors, including The Beverly Hills Hotel Bungalows, The Hotel Bel-Air, The Carlyle, The Plaza among others. 56 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | NOVEMBER 2019
THE RESIDENCES The one-to-five-bedroom homes, full-floor tower residences, and duplex penthouse are extraordinarily glamorous and sleek, yet modern and warm. Designed with a neutral pallet and sublime materials, residences feature sumptuous master baths and grand layouts framed by generous floor to ceiling windows with striking views of Manhattan. With attention paid to every detail, each residence exhibits all the worldly standards associated with a lifestyle combining the intimacy of a home with the personalized services offered at premier boutique properties.
Terrace
THE AMENITIES The Centrale’s luxurious suite of amenities was cultivated to deliver an experience swathed in comfortable opulence. Residents will enjoy access to impressive wellness, leisure and entertainment spaces, starting with the breathtaking doubleheight lobby attended by a full-time doorman and concierge. Indoors The soaring 36-foot ceilings of the Great Room create a unique connection between the exterior façade and the interior spaces. Enhanced by a floral-inspired art installation by Pascale Girardin, a feature wall made from quarter matched Nestos marble, the Great Room is remarkably grand and perfectly warm, a true oasis for residents. The Club Room, with its doubleheight ceilings, is both lofty and intimate—a perfect space for casual gatherings. Warmed by a fireplace, it features a ceramic art installation and floor-to-ceiling windows. A professional Conference Room containing a custom Bianco Carrara marble top and walnut frame is available for those working from home. And for those looking to entertain, the Private Dining space features a catering kitchen—an ideal space to host lively events. Outdoors Amenities extend outside where residents will enjoy the pet-friendly Garden Terrace and expansive all-season Club Terrace. The perfect place for conversation and celebration, the Club Terrace, is illuminated by a celestial light installation that hangs high above the terrace’s tables, lounge chairs, wet bar, and plush seating. Spa & Fitness For residents looking to kick start their day, The Fitness Center, thoughtfully curated by The Wright Fit, provides private access to state-of-the-art equipment, including Peloton bikes, Woodway treadmills, and a TRX training center, twenty-four hours per day. The Fitness Center overlooks a full length 75’ lap pool surrounded by a soft travertine pool deck with ample seating and a magnificent art fixture cascade down from above. For the ultimate in relaxation and regeneration, an in-residence spa retreat awaits complete with on-site steam room, private treatment room, and yoga & Pilates studio which collectively offer residents a meditative enclave in which to focus on health and wellness. Designed as the ultimate New York residential experience, The Centrale is set within the center of the most vibrant city in the world. Replete with 5-star hotel services and exquisite design, The Centrale is the desirable address to make your own. Pricing: One- to three-bedroom residences from $1.695 million to over $5 million. Full-floor Tower Residences from $10.25 million. The Centrale Penthouse available upon request. For more information on The Centrale, visit thecentralenyc.com. • NOVEMBER 2019 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 57
REAL ESTATE & YOUR HOME
Greenwich West Crown
GREENWICH WEST HUDSON SQUARE’S CONDO WITH A FRENCH ACCENT By AP Connolly
reenwich West, Hudson Square’s newest residential tower, is located in West SoHo at 110 Charlton Street and offers 170 loft-style residences ranging from studios to three-bedrooms, including penthouses. At 30 stories, one of the tallest buildings in the area, the condominium serves as an urban lookout, providing panoramas of the Hudson River, New York Harbor, and Statue of Liberty.
Created by a team of top French designers, Greenwich West brings an elegant sensibility to the nexus of one of Manhattan’s most desirable neighborhoods. Designed by Françoise Raynaud, the French architect and founder of Paris-based firm, Loci Anima, Greenwich West marks the first NYC tower designed by a French female architect. 58 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | NOVEMBER 2019
Greenwich West Sales Gallery Living Room ©Alan Tansey
THE RESIDENCES
Greenwich West’s interiors have been carefully conceived by Parisian designer, Sebastien Segers, known for his private homes, spas, and boutiques for clients such as Giorgio Armani and Christian Dior. Every element of Greenwich West’s residential interiors has been carefully conceived for casual elegance. Daylight streams through expansive windows and across wide-plank European white oak floors. Walnut and Carrara marble clad the kitchens. Gently curved, hand-plastered interior walls echo the building’s stylized facade and impart a bespoke quality to each residence. Deep window sills are topped in honed Carrara marble. Engraved doors feature elegantly customized detailing and specially designed hardware. European-made Forbes & Lomax nickel-plated toggle light switches bring a high-quality, Euro-chic detail to each space.
Living Room
In the kitchen, Miele appliances nestle into custom Molteni&C casework crafted from walnut, metal lacquer, and fluted mirrors. Uniquely formed kitchen islands with integrated bookshelves are completed by Carrara marble countertops skillfully fabricated with marine edging. The sumptuous master bathrooms are sanctuaries clad in Carrara marble with engineered-rosewood vanities and polished nickel fixtures. Elegant one-of-a-kind powder rooms with dynamically striated Zebrino marble evoke New York elegance.
Kitchen
AMENITIES & MORE
110 Charlton Fitness
Greenwich West is a rare Downtown building that includes a full array of amenities and services, including a 24-hour attended lobby, on-site resident manager, porter, and handyman staff. At the building’s crown is an amenity rooftop terrace featuring multiple lounges and seating areas choreographed into peaceful, landscaped vignettes to offer breathtaking city and water views. And there’s more! Additional amenities include the lounge, a gracious entertainment suite; a top-of-the-line fitness center by The Wright Fit with yoga studio and spa; and children’s playroom designed in collaboration with leading New York institution, The Children’s Museum of the Arts. An automated parking garage with direct secure access to residential elevators; a supplemental laundry facility; bicycle storage; and additional private storage for purchase are also available. The lobby boasts a captivating wall of windows framing views of the courtyard Viewing Garden, created by legendary French botanist Patrick Blanc, creator of the vertical garden. A symbol of health and well-being, the Viewing Garden will be home to multiple plant species artfully planted on walls reaching up to 18 feet in height. Pricing starts at $1.075 million. For more information on Greenwich West, visit greenwichwest.com.
110 Charlton Roof Deck
Corcoran Sunshine Marketing Group is the exclusive sales and marketing firm. Contact them at greenwichwest@corcoransunshine. com or 212-242-0110. • NOVEMBER 2019 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 59
REAL ESTATE & YOUR HOME
TOP AMENITIES
WHAT MAKES A BUYER’S HEART SING? By Lisa K. Lippman
here are many things that people love about New York from the food and culture to the varied buildings that line block after block. Our old and new architecture are equally compelling but it is the new construction that is reshaping the skyline and also raising the standards for what people desire and expect when purchasing a home. Over the past decades I’ve had the pleasure to work with countless buyers in the city. When I first begin working with a client, together we create a list of must have attributes to refine our search. In recent years I’ve noticed that despite the location, size, and style of homes that people desire, there are specific amenities that transcend across these lists. Inspired by the offerings of new developments, these six amenities have come to be less of a luxury and more of a necessity for today’s buyer
EAT-IN KITCHEN For at home chefs or takeout aficionados, a kitchen with generous space has become an essential amenity. While kitchen size was an aside in previous years with dining rooms being in high demand and every meal eaten in a more formal manner, these room functions have shifted. Nowadays, meals are a more casual experience and an eat-in kitchen is less of a luxury and more a very common requirement. Other kitchen amenities people have come to expect are 2 ovens, 5 or more burner stoves and wine refrigerators.
1148 Fifth Ave 257 Central Park West
LARGE MASTER BATH While people may prefer the charm of a prewar apartment, new buildings and suburban homes have raised the bar for the master bath expectations. In recent years, when older apartments are renovated, an enlargement of a master bath is frequently included even if it means taking away a bedroom or completely reconfiguring a floorplan. A luxurious, grand bathroom can offer a private retreat within a home, a way to escape the city’s hustle and bustle after a full day. Within master baths, large glass showers are a highly desired addition for the spa like ambiance they can create, as well double vanities and soaking tubs.
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WELL-LOCATED GUEST BATH
WALK-IN CLOSETS
Whether hosting a dinner party or having a guest stay for the weekend, a well-located guest bath ensures company has privacy and feels comfortable. A delicately and elegantly-styled guest bath, full or half, is a thoughtful touch to company’s experience. Having a well-placed powder room also assures the homeowner’s privacy.
It’s not just Carrie Bradshaw, everyone wants a walk-in closet. As a whole, people have more “stuff ” than they did two decades ago and walk-in closets are a standard for new developments. A large closet ensures usability and peak performance to the owners. With the inclusion of expert organizers, you can truly utilize every half inch. Additional closets outside of the bedroom are also highly sought after for the additional storage they provide for seasonal items or a place for guests to hang their coats.
257 Central Park West
1148 Fifth Ave
35 West 15th St
FITNESS ROOM While a number of amenities desired from buyers are focused within the home, a top building amenity requested and expected is a fitness room. As society has come to prioritize health, a spacious gym with high quality equipment like a Peloton Bike can greatly increase both the desirability and value of a unit within a building.
AND THE REST… A washer and dryer is a highly desired amenity by buyers for the convenience they bring to a home. While many buildings do offer more modernized laundry rooms onsite with large capacity washers and dryers, nothing truly beats the expediency of being able to walk down your own apartment hall. The demand for an in-unit washer and dryer is even higher for those purchasing a home with two bedrooms or more as these tend to be sought after by a more sophisticated buyer who sees it as an essential rather than a luxury. Lisa K. Lippman is a twenty-two year real estate insider and top selling agent at Brown Harris Stevens. • NOVEMBER 2019 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 61
HEALTH & WELLNESS
DR. HAIDEH HIRMAND THE SCIENTIFIC AND ARTFUL AESTHETIC PLASTIC SURGEON By Ruth J. Katz
r. Haideh Hirmand, a much soughtafter, board-certified aesthetic plastic surgeon, is enthusiastic when invoking the name of Dr. Suzanne Noël, an early 20th-century French plastic surgeon. After being in practice for years, Dr. Hirmand discovered that Madame Noël, when compared with her male contemporaries, had been “obsessed with knowing who her patients were and what motivated them. In my practice,” she continued, “I, too, have always gone beyond the patient’s cosmetic concerns. I want to fully understand their motivation and individual circumstances to achieve age-appropriate elegance that is best suited to the individual. Whether I ‘sculpt’ with a scalpel or a needle, I want to attain the right look, for the right purpose, for the right time in someone’s life.” Indeed, patients entering Dr. Hirmand’s stylish and cosseting Park Avenue office (which also houses a stateof-the-art, AAAASF-accredited operating facility) will engage with her for far more than the customary ten minutes. Dr. Hirmand takes time to know her patients and their aspirations. Harvard-educated, she is an invited lecturer at numerous esteemed, national and global conferences, and is highly credentialed, with prestigious international fellowships on her CV. In practice since 1999, she is on the faculty of New York-Presbyterian Hospital/ Weill-Cornell Medical Center; in a male-dominated field, Dr. Hirmand has chaired the Women’s Aesthetic Surgeons Committee of the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery and the Leadership Development Committee, among other, impressive leadership roles. Always an innovator, Dr. Hirmand created, early on in her career, a blunt cannula, for filling in the under-eye trough, a delicate area. Today, countless other practitioners routinely use versions of that implement. She espouses a novel perspective when it comes to beauty in the age of social media. “I’m philosophically against using social media to commoditize and promote services with gory videos and before-and-after photos. My goal is to engage in a productive, intelligent conversation about beauty, offering useful insights as an aesthetic surgeon, scientist, and beauty expert.” New York Lifestyles recently sat down with Dr. Hirmand to probe a little more deeply into her practice. I know you strive to maintain an office that is not a cookie-cutter practice. How do you achieve that? Our approach is unique in that it’s informed by the role appearance plays in our lives. Our consultation style sets us apart. Our team is superlative, from our front-desk staff to our nurse-practitioner to our aesthetic concierge. We even have a clinical researcher on staff. Most importantly, we keep a close tab on patient progress and outcome, to be sure we achieve our mutual goals while assuring that the patient experience is exceptional. Could you elaborate on the facets of your practice that set you apart? I’ve modeled my clinical approach around three concepts: First, looking like yourself. An intelligent aesthetic approach preserves the character of each individual’s unique features; it doesn’t alter them. I ask patients to bring pictures of themselves—from their 20s or 30s— which show me the original shape of the eyes and face, so I can preserve it and stay true to the original ‘blueprint.’ 62 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | NOVEMBER 2019
My goal is to engage in a productive, intelligent conversation about beauty, offering useful insights as an aesthetic surgeon, scientist, and beauty expert. And the other foundation blocks of your practice that you mentioned? Second, achieving age-appropriate and person-appropriate rejuvenation, considering a patient’s stage in life and who he/she is. Third, I look for aesthetic synergy to create an aesthetic plan that incorporates the right balance of cutting-edge, non-invasives with advanced surgical options to achieve optimal results. Do you have a specialty area of practice? My areas of concentration are the face and the eyes, both surgical and non-surgical: eyelid surgery, non-surgical tear-trough-filling, face and neck lifts, and the shorterscar, rapid-recovery ‘jowl lift’ for younger necks. I also have a particular interest in bioregenerative techniques, which grew out of my experience as a molecular biologist. Tell us how your SkinLabRx—your med-spa—is different from others. I am by training a molecular scientist and I knew about 20 years ago, when Botox received FDA approval, that we were entering an exciting frontier in technology in aesthetics. I committed to integrating the newest, cutting-edge technology into my practice and that led me to establish SkinLabRx. We offer everything from chemical peels, skin resurfacing, contouring, micro-needling, and rejuvenation. Our signature SkinRegeneRx program focuses on anti-inflammatory and bio-stimulatory treatments with little or no downtime. These techniques use the body’s own biological factors to supercharge healing and rejuvenation, and they harness the skin’s own power for cellular and molecular regeneration. These treatments not only remodel the skin to improve tone, texture, thickness, and pigmentation for a more youthful appearance, but they also slow down the pace and course of skin-aging. Any “quick fixes” for the upcoming holiday social season? Aside from the well-known injectables, I would recommend hydrafusion, which immediately brightens skin by exfoliating, peeling, hydrating, and infusing with antioxidant serums. It also includes micro-needling, which activates the skin’s healing response to promote collagen production, as it improves texture and tone—with no downtime. For more information on Dr. Haideh Hirmand, visit haidehhirmandmd.com; for SkinLabRx, visit skinlabrx.com. © Ruth J. Katz 2019 All Rights Reserved • NOVEMBER 2019 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 63
HEALTH & WELLNESS
DESPERATELY SEEKING SNOOZIN’ EFFECTIVE WAYS TO CATCH SOME Z’S By Patricia Canole
ith lives multi-tasked to the umpteenth degree, many of us come up short on shut-eye. You toss and turn as you slumber, upsetting the all-important REM-rich cycles. Here, compelling reasons why you need more shut-eye and easy ways to catch a few winks. YOUR HEALTH
Being tired means you’re more susceptible to everything from developing diabetes to catching colds. Experts indicate that after six nights of four hour sleep, you may have an increase in higher blood sugar (an early warning sign of diabetes) and weaker immune systems than those who slept eight hours. Sleeping only six hours a night increases the risk of heart disease by 18 percent.
YOUR WEIGHT
Those of us who skimp on sleep are significantly more likely to be overweight than those who consistently get seven hours of shut-eye a night. When you’re sleepdeprived, your body produces more stress hormones such as cortisol, which slows down your metabolism and ups production of appetite-increasing hormones such as leptin. 64 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | NOVEMBER 2019
REST EASY A quick reach for over-the-counter sleep aids may seem like an easy solution. However, drugs may cause more problems than they solve. But there are natural ways to train your body to go to sleep on a regular schedule without the aid of chemicals. Here, some wide-awake ways to start on a journey to quality shuteye and sleep like a baby. • Unplug That’s right no screen time. Even an innocent Facebook scroll really messes with sleep. Blue light from your phone disrupts your body’s production of melatonin: the hormone that regulates your sleep/wake cycle. • Decompress Now that you’ve unplugged, why not luxuriate in the disconnect. Wind down with soothing music or take a luxurious bath. Or do as so many fellow New Yorkers and meditate. • Read A Bestseller Swap your iPad/Kindle for an actual book. Reading anything that interests you fuels inspiration and can allow for big ideas to come to you in your sleep. Plus, the real act of reading will peacefully lull you into slumber. • Stretch You might think that going to sleep is as easy as putting your body in bed and flipping off the lights. The National Sleep Foundation suggests a time to shift into total relaxation before bedtime. A simple stretching routine will help tremendously. Deep breathing as you slowly stretch calms the brain and body. Do this before you’re ready to crawl into bed to encourage sounder slumber. • Avoid Late-Night Eating Make it a rule to eat earlier in the evening and to avoid heavy, rich foods within two hours of bedtime. Spicy/acidic food can often cause stomach trouble and heartburn for some. Also, steer away from alcoholic beverages since it will undoubtedly interfere with your sleep cycle. • Make Some Noise Sometimes the right solution might not be to eliminate noise—but to actually increase the noise. This can be done with the magic of a white noise machine, which soothes you to sleep with sound waves in a wide range of frequencies. The white noise drowns out the sounds of your external environment, masking them with a whooshing sound similar to the soothing sounds parents make to their newborns. Some white noise machines also come with settings called “soundscapes,” that include a variety of nature scenes like ocean waves, rainfall, and forest walks.
CATCH 40 WINKS Of course, nothing can take the place of a good night’s sleep. But a short, 20-minute nap can help ease a bout of drowsiness. Napping can help fight off physical and emotional fatigue, improve work performance, and even fight depression. And, most certainly, it will boost your energy level to complete the remainder of your daily tasks. If you’re in an office environment, it’s undoubtedly difficult to catch some z’s at your desk. There are techniques, though, that provide similar benefits to a 20-minute snooze. Step away from your workload and relax your body and close your eyes. Then, take ten deep breaths. Doing this will help to recharge your body and renew your zest.
The less caffeine you crave, the more rested you are. If you can get through that 3 pm slump (your body’s natural low point) without reaching for the cup of java, then you’re master of your sleep domain.
RESTED DEVELOPMENT
Think you’re slumber savvy? Don’t be so sure! Answer these questions to reveal if you catch enough sleep. Do you generally wake up before your alarm goes off every morning? A. Yes B. No Best answer: A You’ll wake up on your own if you’re getting enough sleep, which many of us aren’t. More than 43 percent report feeling so tired it affects their day-to-day activities three days a week. How fast do you fall asleep when you get into bed? A. As soon as your head hits the pillow B. Within 10 to 15 minutes C. You toss and turn for almost an hour Best answer: B If you lose consciousness almost immediately after crawling under the covers, you’re sleep-deprived. But if you toss and turn, consumed by stress, you may be spending too much time in bed, which contributes to insomnia. How much caffeine do you consume? A. You’re useless without your morning brew and afternoon cappuccino (not to mention those two diet sodas you drink with lunch. B. You have a cup of coffee in the morning and either a cup of coffee or a diet drink in the afternoon as a pick-me-up C. Just one cup in the morning. Best answer: C The less caffeine you crave, the more rested you are. If you can get through that 3 pm slump (your body’s natural low point) without reaching for the cup of java, then you’re master of your sleep domain. •
DEFINING SLEEP DISORDERS Whether caused by a health problem or by too much stress, sleep disorders have become increasingly common. In fact, close to 75 percent of Americans between ages 20 and 59 report having sleeping difficulties regularly. Most adults occasionally experience sleeping problems due to hectic schedules, unsolved problems, and other outside influences. However, when these issues begin to occur regularly and interfere with daily life, they may indicate a sleeping disorder. Not all sleep disorders are the same. Here, a definitive look at the most common. Insomnia It refers to an inability to fall—and remain—asleep. Causes include jet leg, stress, anxiety—and even digestive problems. Insomnia can be very problematic and, unfortunately, is most prevalent among women. Insomnia is usually classified as one of three types: chronic, intermittent, and transient. Sleep Apnea This is characterized by pauses in breathing during sleep and considered a serious condition that causes a deprivation of oxygen to the body. Narcolepsy This condition is characterized by “sleep attacks” that occur during the day. It usually happens when you suddenly feel exhausted and fall asleep without warning.
NOVEMBER 2019 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 65
HEALTH & WELLNESS
A QUEST TO REVERSE CANCER
AN INTERVIEW WITH DR. SAMUEL WAXMAN By Peter Elston
amuel Waxman, M.D., has dedicated his entire career as an oncologist/hematologist and research scientist with the goal of developing scientifically based minimally toxic therapies for patients with cancer. Born in New York City and raised on Long Island, Waxman is a valued member of the faculty at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai for more than 30 years, Dr. Waxman currently holds a variety of positions, including, Distinguished Service Professor of Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, Honorary Professor and Co-Director of the Center of Differentiation Therapy at Shanghai Jiao Tong Medical University. In addition, he is the Founder and CEO of the Samuel Waxman Cancer Research Foundation (SWCRF). Dr. Waxman has authored more than 300 scientific papers and was among the first to study differentiation as a cancer therapy. He has also contributed chapters to textbooks on hematology, chemotherapy and nutrition as well as authoring a series of books entitled Differentiation Therapy, and another called The Leukemia Cell. Waxman helped found the International Conference on the Differentiation Therapy of Cancer, which brings together researchers from around the globe every two years. New York Lifestyles recently met with Dr. Waxman who shared vital information on the fight against cancer.
Dr. Samuel Waxman ©Charles Manley
66 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | NOVEMBER 2019
What made you get into the medical field? I received my undergraduate degree at Cornell University, where I received a B.S. Soon after I attended medical school at the State University of New York Downstate Medical Center, where I received my M.D. and graduated Summa Cum Laude. I completed my residency and research fellowships at the Mount Sinai Hospital. Why did you enter into cancer research? After a family member was diagnosed with cancer, it inspired me to pursue oncology/hematology. Once I began treating patients, I grew frustrated with the side effects of treatments brought about by their toxicity. Since then, I dedicated my entire career to understanding why normal cells become cancerous, how to prevent or treat cancer and to develop minimally toxic therapies. What prompted you to launch the Samuel Waxman Cancer Research Foundation (SWCRF)? After I successfully treated a young man for leukemia, the man’s uncle presented me with a donation and challenge to start a foundation after learning that early-stage research, which often leads to novel breakthroughs, was only funded through private dollars. I then established the Samuel Waxman Cancer Research Foundation (SWCRF) in 1976 and since then, it has directed nearly $100 million in donorsupported research to more than 200 of the world’s top research scientists and physicians. What is your proudest career moment so far? In collaboration with other researchers around the globe, I helped find and discover a cure for a form of leukemia known as acute promyelocytic leukemia, which once had a 100 percent fatality rate but now has a 95 percent survival rate. Also, through the SWCRF, I pioneered collaborative research and mandated that all scientists who received funding from the SWCRF, initiate a collaboration with another researcher, ideally outside of their research institution and discipline. Where do you see yourself and the Foundation in the next 5 years? Recently, we spearheaded a research partnership with the National Cancer Institute and the National Institute on Aging to boost research that examines why aging is a leading risk factor for cancer. A first of this kind, the partnership has paired scientists who study cancer with those who study aging. The premise of this partnership was born out of the SWCRF’s collaborative research model as a means to hasten research breakthroughs. In five years, I see the SWCRF as the leader in amassing a global investment in this area of research since aging is the leading cause for cancer but at present, remains understudied. For more information on Dr. Samuel Waxman and SWCRF, visit waxmancancer.org. • Waxman Gala ©Patrick McMullan
Dr. Samuel Waxman ©Patrick McMullan
ABOUT SWCRF The SWCRF is an international nonprofit organization dedicated to curing and preventing cancer. The Foundation is a pioneer in cancer research and its mission is to eradicate cancer by funding cutting-edge research that identifies and corrects abnormal gene function that causes cancer and develops minimally toxic treatments for patients. 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. Much of the support for the SWCRF cancer research funding comes from events such as The Hamptons Happening cancer research benefit held each summer, an annual golf tournament and the Waxman Gala. This year, the 22nd Annual Waxman Gala will be held on November 21, 2019 at Cipriani Wall Street in New York City.
NOVEMBER 2019 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 67
HEALTH & WELLNESS
GRATITUDE
THE KEY TO HAPPINESS By Peter M. Kalellis
f you want to be happy learn to be grateful for the small things in life. If you do not want to be satisfied, then it is easy: never say thank you for anything. A better way is to start each day with few words: Thank you God for another day. Our realization of what is most important in life goes hand in hand with gratitude. It is a blessing. Reality points out that both abundance and lack of thereof exist simultaneously in our lives. It is always our conscious choice to choose better health, family, friends, work, and the joys of nature, and personal pursuits that bring us happiness.
A MATTER OF TIME
THE LITTLE THINGS
This is a tremendously powerful statement! Since the time President Lincoln gave this speech, the wealth, prosperity and peace experienced by the United States are far greater—along with the attitude of pride, selfishness, and ingratitude. But if this same speech were given today, there would be quite an uproar! In contrast to Lincoln’s day, or even to fifty years ago, today’s ungrateful attitude is worse by far. In this world of being obsessed with what’s “in”—from the newest fashions, to the latest songs and absurd political correctness—gratitude has been all but declared unconstitutional!
• Be thankful that you don’t already have everything you desire. If you did, what would there be to look forward to? • Be thankful when you don’t know something, for it gives you the opportunity to learn. • Be thankful for the difficult times. During those times you grow. • Be thankful for your limitations because they give you opportunities for improvement. • Be thankful for each new challenge, because it will build your strength and character. • Be thankful for your mistakes; they will teach you valuable lessons. • Be thankful when you’re tired and weary because it means you’ve made a difference. •
President Abraham Lincoln stated, “We have been the recipients of the choicest blessings of heaven. We have been preserved, these many years, in peace and prosperity. We have grown in numbers, wealth and power as no other nation ever has grown; but we have forgotten God! We have forgotten the gracious Hand which preserved us in peace, and multiplied and enriched and strengthened us; and we have vainly imagined, in the deceitfulness of our hearts, that all these blessings were produced by some superior wisdom and virtue of our own.”
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If you want to be happy, start your day by being grateful for the things that you take for granted. An unknown author offers some practical thoughts on gratitude.
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FOOD & DRINK
FOGO DE CHÃO
A BRAZILIAN STEAKHOUSE WITH FLASH & FINESSE By Anne Raso
f you’re in the mood for something different and have a large appetite for good food and a lively atmosphere, the conveniently located Fogo de Chão is the place for you. There’s never a dull moment as gauchos come by your table with fire-roasted skewers of meat done in many delicious ways. Each guest gets a round card to flip to the green side when they want to be served and flip to the red side when they need a break. The endless supply of succulent meat and poultry is accompanied by a salad bar that comes with the dinner prix fixe of $66.95 (currently at the promotional price of $49 through December 1, 2019). Many aspects of the Fogo de Chão dining experience make it unforgettable. Included in what might be Manhattan’s best sophisticated prix fixe dining is the remarkable Market Table, a salad bar that features about 50 Brazilian, European, and American specialties. Everything from fresh mozzarella and assorted popular Brazilian beans and charcuterie to mixed grilled veggies is beautifully displayed and gives plenty of vegetarian options for noncarnivorous guests. Fluffy and light Brazilian cheese bread (Pao de Queijo) served at the beginning of each meal is highly addictive—no doubt you’ll ask for seconds! Each table also has sides, including polenta and plantains.
QUALITY CHURRASCO New York Lifestyles asked Ricardo Oliveira, General Manager of Fogo de Chão NYC, about the authentic churrasco experience and how they became number one in this exclusive dining field. He responded, “Fogo de Chão has specialized for 40 years in fire roasting simply seasoned meats utilizing the centuries-old Southern Brazilian cooking technique of churrasco. We deliver an authentic Brazilian dining experience through the combination of highquality Brazilian cuisine and a unique service model of continuous service delivered by our gaucho chefs. Although we are known for our full churrasco experience, we are always updating ways to give our guests more reasons to choose Fogo. From our weekend brunch, the new bar and lounge experience complete with happy hour offerings, or even our lighter dining options, like seafood and Gaucho Lunch, Fogo offers something for everyone.”
PRIDE IN HOSPITALITY Oliveira has adored his time working for this award-winning restaurant group and tells us candidly, “I have been in the restaurant industry for more than 20 years, originally specializing in the areas of coffee and wine. Growing up in Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil, I was always very familiar with Fogo de Chão and dreamed of working for them one day as a gaucho chef. So, when I learned that they would be opening a restaurant in New York City, I jumped at the chance to join the Fogo family and have never looked back.” He continues, “The biggest highlight for me is the culture at Fogo. Once you come to know gaucho culture, you can’t help but get involved and feel passionately about it—especially as a native of Brazil. At Fogo de Chão, we take great pride in the hospitality we extend to our guests, always striving to make them feel right at home with us.” 70 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | NOVEMBER 2019
GAUCHOS IN THE MAKING The gauchos go through rigorous training to achieve an optimum dining experience for guests. Explains Oliveira, “Over the years, we’ve brought many chefs to the United States from our restaurants in Brazil. The recruitment and development process helps to ensure the success of each of the new chefs who become experts on meats and Southern Brazilian cuisine. During training, they learn to be responsible for every culinary aspect of the business, which includes butchering, skewering, grilling, and carving meats tableside. At Fogo, we’re not only constantly innovating, but we’re always investing in training our teams at every restaurant.”
SEASONAL FLAVORS As you read this, the kitchen staff at Fogo de Chão is discussing the freshest locally sourced produce available for their Market Table and menu items. Oliveria explains, “It is a tradition in Southern Brazil to utilize the season’s fresh produce when preparing meals for family and friends. To follow suit, we offer menu innovations that incorporate the same seasonal flavors. Look for New York Strip as part of the full churrasco experience, as well as new Market Table additions, such as a butternut kale salad, butternut and sweet potato soup, pear and endive salad, and roasted sweet potatoes. We’re also open on Thanksgiving and Christmas, offering special holiday menus for both.”
AN ENGAGING ATMOSPHERE Who is the typical clientele that turns up at Fogo since they are located smack dab in midtown at West 53rd Street just east of Sixth Avenue (directly across from MoMA)? Oliveira remarks, “At Fogo de Chão, we offer guests an engaging atmosphere with a unique, Southern Brazilian flare that still maintains the roots and tradition of their very first restaurant in Brazil. On a typical day at Fogo, you can find everyone from young families or millennials celebrating a special occasion dining next to business guests. We frequently have celebrities dine with us and post about their experience on their social media pages.”
SPECTACULAR SERVICE Fogo is a great place to take families and large groups. Kids especially love it because they get to use their personal metal thongs to grab the sliced meat off each giant skewer. Fogo provides a truly unique dining experience at a reasonable price, with service among the most attentive in the city. The staff is genuinely caring without being a distraction to your dining experience. It’s much more than a “meat extravaganza”—Fogo De Chão brings authentic Brazilian flavors and culture to the center of Manhattan! For more information on Fogo de Chão, visit fogodechao.com. • NOVEMBER 2019 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 71
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FOOD & DRINK
FEAST ON THIS
THIS THANKSGIVING GATHER ONE AND ALL By AP Connolly
f a reservation feels like the best thing you could make for Thanksgiving dinner, you’re not alone. Whether visiting for the holidays or simply enjoying Thanksgiving Day with family and friends, New York City offers plenty of options to whet your appetite. From prime-aged steaks and Italian hospitality to Provencal charm and, of course, roast turkey top the menu this year. Here, some select picks for an enjoyable Thanksgiving dinner. T-BAR STEAK & LOUNGE A classically-chic Upper East Side eatery, T-Bar Steak and Lounge offers outstanding cuisine in a casual yet elegant space. Under the watchful eye of restaurateur Tony Fortuna and Executive Chef Ben Zwicker, T-Bar is a new spin on the upscale steakhouse. The menu features a wide range of dishes, ranging from well-cooked renditions of classics, to refined and inventive plates, providing the ultimate dining experience. This Thanksgiving, they’ll be serving a robust prix-fixe Thanksgiving menu with appetizers including Pumpkin Soup along with Amish Roasted Turkey with Sage Gravy, Stuffing, and Sweet Potatoes. Info: tbarnyc.com.
T-Bar Steak & Lounge
NOVEMBER 2019 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 73
DEMARCHELIER RESTAURANT
Authentic French Bistro Demarchelier is a little bit of France in New York City. Every meal that leaves its kitchen aims to capture the soul of authentic bistro fare. His loyal following enjoys not only the excellent cuisine but also a glimpse into the French-born artist paintings adorning the restaurant’s walls. Owner Eric Demarchelier’s artistic style encompasses abstract expressionism as well as landscape and portrait. The restaurant will be serving its regular menu and prix-fixe specials which will include Roasted Turkey Breast served with Stuffing and Cranberry Sauce. Be sure to leave room for the delectable Pecan Tart. Info:demarchelierrestaurant.com.
Demarchelier Interior Cathédrale
CARMINE’S When Carmine’s first opened on the Upper West Side, word spread quickly about the exciting atmosphere and the great food served familystyle and reasonably priced. This, along with the oversized cocktails and a wine list composed of the best values and varieties from. Italy and around the world, made Carmine’s an immediate hit. For Thanksgiving, look for Roasted Turkey with Sausage and Sage Stuffing served with Cranberry Sauce and all the trimmings: Brussels Sprouts with Caramelized Onions and Applewood Smoked B a c on , S aut e e d St r i n g Beans with Red Peppers, and Sweet Potatoes topped with Marshmallows and Maple Syrup. Leave room for the pumpkin and apple pies! Info: carminesnyc.com.
Carmine’s
74 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | NOVEMBER 2019
CATHÉDRALE RESTAURANT Cathédrale is the exciting new FrenchMediterranean restaurant by the Tao Hospitality Group located in the Moxy East Village. The larger than life space has a towering cathedral ceiling, wide archways, and outdoor dining terrace. This Thanksgiving, Cathédrale’s Chefs Ralph Scamardella and Jason Hall will offer a Thanksgiving menu as well serving up its exceptional coastal cuisine with dishes like Hamachi Crudo with Green Apple and Black Olive Oil, Roasted Lobster with Wild Oregano, Lemon, and Parsley Butter, and a DryAged Ribeye Steak Au Poivre. Watch the chefs bring your meal to life in an open-hearth kitchen, while you sip on a cocktail with friends and family. Make your reservations today! Info: cathedraleny.com.
TAVERN ON THE GREEN New York’s iconic restaurant re-opened five years ago, adding a fresh new spin to eating in the park. Since its redux, it’s been well-received by locals and tourists alike. Celebrate a classic Thanksgiving in Central Park and enjoy a traditional dinner with turkey and a four-course menu. Chef Bill Peet will stir your appetite with his classic Roasted FreeRange Turkey with Sage and Sausage Stuffing, Sun-Dried Cranberry Conserves, Glazed Carrots with Shaved Green Onion, and Whipped Sweet Potato Puree. The menu also includes celebratory dishes like Roasted Chateaubriand, and Organic Salmon Fillet. Info: tavernonthegreen.com.
Tavern on the Green
RIVERPARK
Riverpark
Located on a unique garden plaza with romantic East River views, Chef Tom Colicchio’s Riverpark represents a dynamic culinary destination in Kip’s Bay. The restaurant showcases produce from its very own Riverpark Farm—just feet away from the kitchen—as well as local farms and greenmarkets. This Thanksgiving, look for Branzino with Parsnips and Pomegranate, Heritage Turkey with Garlic and Herbs accompanied by sides like Brussels Sprouts and Apple Hash, and Wild Mushroom Stuffing. Dessert includes seasonal pies, Cinnamon-Sugar Doughnuts, as well as ice creams and sorbet. Info: riverparknyc.com.
HILL COUNTRY BARBECUE MARKET For those longing for Southern cooking and finger-licking barbecue, head over to Hill Country’s Thanksgiving Day Feast. No long or fancy ingredient list is necessary, just high-grade meat, a solid dry rub and lots and lots of cooking time. The feast will include a Pit-Smoked Turkey, Signature Beef Brisket, and Market Chicken. Don’t forget the sides: Texas Toast Stuffing, Sweet Potato Bourbon Mash, and Cheddar Mac n’ Cheese. For dessert, the Caramel Apple Streusel is always a favorite. After dinner, head downstairs for live country music (there’s rarely a cover charge). Info: hillcountry.com.
Hill Country Burke & Wills
BURKE & WILLS Since its opening, Burke & Wills has staked its claim as one of the most popular restaurants on the Upper West Side—and has become well known for its top-flight combination of seasonal cuisine and original, artisanal cocktails. The Australian ex-pat owners offer a double experience under one roof. The casual Manhattan Cricket Club, a swanky exclusive cocktail lounge. You’ll find the comfortable dining room inviting and Chef Jonathan Perez’s menu ripe with modern, adventurous flavors of Australia. Thanksgiving Day menu will feature Roasted Heritage Turkey Breast with Chestnut Stuffing, Savoy Cabbage, Cranberry Relish, and Sage Jus. Be sure to leave room for the Bread & Butter Pudding topped with Toffee Sauce and Whipped Mascarpone. Info: burkeandwillsny.com. •
NOVEMBER 2019 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 75
FOOD & DRINK
SOURLAND MOUNTAIN SPIRITS MAKING NEW JERSEY PROUD By Jeff & Stephanie Sylva
ocal, fresh, handcrafted, high quality: These were the goals Sourland Mountain Spirits founder Ray Disch had in mind when he decided he was ready for a new challenge. In 2015, craft distilling became legal in New Jersey. And that’s when Disch—an entrepreneur at heart— decided to establish the “first farm distillery in New Jersey since prohibition.” Just 60 miles from Manhattan in Hopewell, New Jersey, Sourland Mountain Spirits Distillery is situated on the idyllic Double Brook Farm. Also located on the farm is Troon Brewing and Brick Farm Tavern & Bar, making it the only location with a craft distillery, a craft brewery, and a pasture-to-fork restaurant in one place.
THE SOURLAND STORY
The Sourland Mountains have a rich history of farmers, bootleggers, rebels and patriots, fine craftsmen and artisans. It is, in Disch’s mind, the perfect setting for the distillery. And with the Sourland Mountains as a backdrop to this pastoral scene, we grew envious when Ray said, “Some scene, huh? This is my office.” His decision to start a distillery was engendered from his experience as a craft beer brewer. He and his wife Erica, a partner and sales manager for the distillery, were co-founders of Triumph Brewing in Princeton, New Jersey. In fact, it was the Disches who were instrumental in lobbying the legislature to permit craft brewing in New Jersey. The process of distilling began at the base of the Sourland range, as Disch’s distilling team crafted their spirits with pure water filtered through microfractures in the mountains protected by the largest contiguous forest in Central New Jersey. Not too long after offering their spirits to the public in 2017, Sourland Mountain Spirits began to garner praises and awards from various experts and competitions. The team’s proudest moment came when, following 70 consecutive test runs, they felt they had hit on the right formula for their gin. The American Distilling Institute and San Francisco World Spirits Competition concurred, awarding the gin Silver Medals. The 12-botanical gins are smooth to the taste, yet have a complex flavor profile with just the right amount of juniper notes as to not overpower the spirit. 76 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | NOVEMBER 2019
Sourland’s Vodka is also derived from a corn-based neutral spirit, and its ten separate distillations achieve a precision of flavor evident in the spirit’s smooth, natural tang without any bite. Other spirits available include a Silver Rum, a Spiced Rum, an Apple Brandy (made with local Terhune Orchard apples), and an enticing Reserved Gin, which has rested for four months in lightly-charred new American Oak barrels. Soon to be released is their Bourbon (the distillery’s take on small-batch, baby bourbon they refer to as a “toddler” bourbon.) Tours and tastings are offered weekends on the hour from 12 to 4 pm. A great way to enjoy Sourland Mountain Spirits is to visit their tasting room bar, the Rick Haus, which is open 5 to 8 pm Thursdays and Fridays and Saturdays and Sundays from noon to 6 pm. Order handcrafted cocktails and sit out back behind the distillery and enjoy the beautiful Double Brook Farm scenery. With holidays approaching, consider attending one of the Sourland’s monthly special events. On November 13th join “Sip n’ Feed” and sample some hand-crafted cocktails while creating thoughtful inspirational memory boards. The event is a fundraiser for HomeFront, an organization dedicated to helping families break the cycle of poverty. On December 4th “Sip n’ Decorate” will have you choosing some festive cocktails while creating your holiday wreath. Ray and Erica Disch
PASTURE-TO-FORK DINING
In 2004, Robin and Jon McConaughy, the owners of Double Brook Farm decided that they wanted to raise animals for personal consumption. Their initial success led to their scaling things up to raise enough to sell to local consumers craving all-natural, pasture-fed products. The farm’s mission is “to create an enterprise that combines a sustainable farm, local market, and tavern.” The result: the Brick Farm Tavern and the Brick Farm Market. Brick Farm Tavern is housed in a wonderfully renovated 1800’s farmhouse and sits adjacent to the Farm’s fields on which many of the animals have pastured. Locavore enthusiasts will love dining here as the menu reflects the farm’s commitment to sustainable farming as well as a variety of products from local artisans. The Peking Duck Breast or the Wood Fired, Spiced Honey Glazed Berkshire Pork are just a couple of menu options sourced from the farm. Four of Troon Brewing’s craft beers are on tap, while the rest of the draft selections are various NJ craft brews. Sourland Mountain Spirits are also featured at the bar. The Tavern serves lunch Friday through Sunday; dinner Tuesday through Sunday. After enjoying your meal at the Tavern, take the short ride into Hopewell and visit the Brick Farm Market. The Market features a bakery, butcher shop, charcuterie, cheese shop, café, and coffee bar. Tell them what you enjoyed at the Tavern, and they can help you purchase the right products to re-create the dish. For more information on Sourland Mountain Spirits, visit sourlandspirits. com; Brick Farm Tavern, visit brickfarmtavern.com; and for Brick Farm Market, visit brickfarmmarket.com. • NOVEMBER 2019 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 77
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
ON STAGE
Pictured (from left to right): Daniel Freedman, Bobby Wooten III, Chris Giarmo, David Byrne, Tendayi Kuumba, Angie Swan, Stéphane San Juan, and Karl Mansfield. Matthew Murphy ©2019
DAVID BYRNE’S AMERICAN UTOPIA By Lori Zelenko
ou may ask yourself, “How did I get here?” to quote a line from the Talking Heads “Once In A Lifetime” hit—as you find yourself dancing in your seat to “Burning Down The House” (no dancing in the aisles!). In fact, you’re compelled to get on your feet—dance, scream, shout, and yes, applaud—the moment the first number in David Byrne’s American Utopia ends. By the time the encore is over and this marvelous evening of the most inclusive music performances has completed, you may wonder how Broadway’s illustrious Hudson Theatre replicates the avantgarde music scene of CBGBs and the Mudd Club. Not to mention the visionary aesthetic of David Byrne’s band, The Talking Heads, once a cult favorite turned new wave pioneers earning massive critical acclaim, not to mention millions of video views. The Talking Heads ended their run in 1991, but their music lives on through their lead singer and guitarist, David Byrne, now up there in the pantheon of pop-rock icons. He has mixed familiar hits with new concepts and songs in an intimate Broadway show, David Byrne’s American Utopia through January 19, 2020.
SPONTANEOUS COMBUSTION
Pictured: Mauro Refosco, David Byrne (center), and Gustavo Di Dalva. Matthew Murphy ©2019
78 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | NOVEMBER 2019
Ask David Byrne what his motivation is for staging a dynamic musical performance based on his 2018 album, American Utopia and for creating a show that is continuously evolving, overflowing with spontaneity and he’ll tell you, “A few years earlier I had toured with the musical artist St Vincent, and we had a large horn section that we decided should be completely mobile. Could I liberate the other instruments in the band as well for the new show? It turns out I could. Drummer Mauro Refosco, whom I’ve worked with for years, said we’d need six drummers to reproduce the necessary grooves. There is now a technology that allows a keyboard to be mobile, so musical director Karl Mansfield tested it out.” The music, like the musicians themselves, hails from all over the world. Here and there, you recognize a tribal sound from Africa or that particular New Orleans twang or the raspy rhythm of Brazilian gourds. David Byrne celebrates the true nature of his merry band of musicians and reveals that he too is “an immigrant,” hailing from Scotland, coming to America as a child. Indeed on that revelation, you see not only the Scottish austerity in his minimalist presence, but an entertaining geniality surfaces erasing the anxious, clean-cut image expressed in Talking Heads videos.
Pictured: David Byrne (center) and the company of American Utopia. Matthew Murphy ©2019
TIMELESS HITS
Yes, you wonder, “How did I get here?” as the evening unfolds, surprising us all. How did I travel back to the 80s to hear timeless hits? How did I wind up at a performance hosted by a quietly intense performer who weaves in politically-tinged messages encouraging us all to take hold of our own beliefs and act accordingly? This is not what you expect from Broadway, and that is what makes this show so rewarding and, yes, an experience that is not to be missed. Karl Mansfeld acknowledges that there is an underlying structure to the show, which seems willfully haphazard. He reveals that certain parts are highly choreographed, but the rest he says is “loosey-goosey”….a “successful experiment” he calls it. Mansfeld wants all to realize, American Utopia “is one of a kind. True, there’s a subtle narrative but it evolves, making each performance unique.” The supporting cast here is the 11 musicians integrated into the performance, interacting joyfully with one another and with David Byrne who moves naturally among them. No stars become diva acts here. The mood and actions are inclusive in every sense of the word. The standouts among the musical cast include Bobby Wooten III, a guitar player that Jimi Hendrix might even envy, delightfully engaging he is a natural, can’t take my eyes off him. Jacquelene Acevedo brings a sparkle to the stage, blond and beautiful; her presence on drums and other global percussion instruments is uplifting, playful, and compelling. The ensemble also includes Gustavo Di Dalva, Daniel Freedman, Chris Giarmo, Tim Keiper, Tendayi Kuumba, Stephane San Juan, and Angie Swan. As the lyrics to “Burning Down The House” say, “Watch out, you might get what you’re after….” If you’re after a great time, a brilliantly staged innovative musical performance and an evening hosted by a performer who embodies the avant-garde with humor and style then watch out indeed because American Utopia is what you’ll get. David Byrne Matthew Murphy ©2019
For more infor mation on Ameri c an Utopi a, v i sit americanutopiabroadway.com. • NOVEMBER 2019 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 79
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
ON THE BIG SCREEN By Jenny Peters
SEQUELS AND REMAKES CHARLIE’S ANGELS Rated PG-13 Elizabeth Banks takes the helm of this reboot of the Charlie’s Angels franchise, as she stars, writes, and directs this new take on the familiar adventures of three gorgeous women who take on the bad guys across the globe. She’s Bosley, while Kristen Stewart, Naomi Scott and Ella Balinska are the new angels. It’s a big-budget action flick helmed by a woman, which is very good news in Hollywood. FROZEN 2 Not yet rated Little girls and grown women, rejoice! Your favorite Disney ice princesses are back in this animated adventure sequel to Frozen, the Oscar-winning and highest grossing animated movie of all time. Naturally, Elsa and Anna are back, along with Olaf and Sven; together they will have to protect their kingdom from dangerous forces. New songs, the same beautiful animation and the vocal talents of Idina Menzel, Kristen Bell, Jonathan Groff and Josh Gadd are sure to make this yet another Disney home run. TERMINATOR: DARK FATE Not yet rated Heee’s back . . . and so is she! Arnold Schwarzenegger and Linda Hamilton reprise the roles that made them both household names back in the 1980s, as the Terminator and Sarah Connor. Creator James Cameron produced this next chapter in the continuing saga and joined in the writing process, so fans should be very happy with this next installment.
BIOPICS FORD VS. FERRARI Rated: PG-13 Matt Damon and Christian Bale lead a stellar cast in this automobile lover’s dream of a movie, all about the competition between Ford Mustang designer Carroll Shelby and Italian race car genius Enzo Ferrari. With a heady combination of racing footage, fascinating interpersonal relationships and two A-list actors working at the top of their game, Ford vs. Ferrari is a real-life exhilarating action flick. 80 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | NOVEMBER 2019
HARRIET Rated: PG-13 Harriet Tubman’s life is legendary, as the woman who was a former slave became the strongest advocate for freedom in the United States during the 1850s, in the years before the American Civil War broke out. Cynthia Erivo stars as Harriet in this biographic film directed by Kasi Lemmons. Look for the talented ensemble of Leslie Odom Jr., Janelle Monae, Clarke Peters and Vondie Curtis Hall who help bring this emotional drama to life. IT’S A BEAUTIFUL DAY IN THE NEIGHBORHOOD Not yet rated Tom Hanks transforms into one of America’s most-loved children’s television stars, as he brings the incredible story of Mr. Rogers to life. With cardigan sweater and a gentle attitude, Hanks transforms into Fred Rogers, the man who made millions of American kids into better people, just by being the nicest guy in the world.
CRIME CAPERS THE GOOD LIAR Rated: PG-13 What could be more fun in the cinema than a cat-and-mouse comedic thriller starring Helen Mirren and Ian McKellan? If there’s anything else you can do in public, we don’t know what that is! Those two consummate thespians bring a sly sensibility to this caper flick that starts in one direction and then – surprisingly – swerves into a whole new place. For young or old, this one’s a ton of fun. THE IRISHMAN Rated: R Director Martin Scorsese is back with a vengeance after a quiet six years, bringing Robert De Niro and Al Pacino together in a mob tale about the man who helped make Jimmy Hoffa disappear without a trace back in the 1980s. A Netflix film that took to theaters early, The Irishman may just be the famed 76-year-old actor’s swan song—and an Oscar winning one at that. KNIVES OUT Rated: PG-13 This stylish whodunit is a little bit funny, a tad mysterious and an overall delight to watch as Daniel Craig stars as a detective out to solve a family crime. Add in Chris Evans, Jamie Lee Curtis, Don Johnson and more slyly comical actors and you’ve got a clever movie that would have made Agatha Christie smile with delight. • NOVEMBER 2019 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 81
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
ON THE SMALL SCREEN By Jenny Peters
ENTER A FANTASY WORLD HIS DARK MATERIALS HBO Fans of His Dark Materials, Philip Pullman’s best-selling trilogy of fantasy novels, rejoice! This new eight-part series takes us on a journey into a dazzling universe filled with talking animals, dark secrets and a plucky heroine who’s out to find her kidnapped friend. With a stellar cast including Dafne Keene, Ruth Wilson, James McAvoy and Lin-Manuel Miranda, this one is more for adults than kids. THE MANDALORIAN Disney + Star Wars comes to the new Disney+ streaming network, which launches this month, in the form of The Mandalorian. He’s a galactic gunslinger played by Pedro Pascal (Narcos), who’s off in the outer reaches of the Star Wars universe; he’s joined in this fantastical adventure series by Nick Nolte, Carl Weathers and Giancarlo Esposito, which is produced by Jon Favreau. SEE Apple TV + November also marks the launch of Apple TV+, a new streaming network that’s pulling out all the stops in its bid to become a key player in the television landscape. Using the deep pockets of Apple, this channel is spending millions on new productions, thus luring some of Hollywood’s biggest stars into joining the family. Jason Momoa and Alfre Woodard take the leads in See, a futuristic tale of a transformed earth, where humans are all blind.
DIG INTO DRAMAS MAD ABOUT YOU Spectrum Originals In keeping with the idea that every old show needs a reboot, the new Spectrum Originals channel (available on demand to Spectrum video subscribers) resurrects the Buchmans from where they left off in the 1990s. This version of Mad About You reunites Paul Reiser and Helen Hunt as that married couple, still together and dealing with sending their daughter off to college. With a few laughs and a few tears, fans of the original will feel right at home here. 82 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | NOVEMBER 2019
THE MORNING SHOW Apple TV+ The flagship show of Apple TV+, The Morning Show takes a dive into the newsroom of a popular (fictional) TV morning show, hosted by characters played by Jennifer Aniston, Reese Witherspoon, and Steve Carell. It’s a dogeat-dog world in morning TV and this hugely expensive production is already guaranteed to air for 20 episodes (two seasons) even before the first show airs. Talk about must-see TV!
GIGGLE WITH THE KIDS FORKY ASKS A QUESTION Disney + Pixar joins the new Disney+ family with an animated treat for the kids (and for adults who love Pixar’s wonderful sensibility, too) that stars Forky, the character recently introduced in Toy Story 4. He’s voiced by Tony Hale of Veep fame and spends each funny episode asking silly questions that will make everyone giggle with delight. GREEN EGGS AND HAM Netflix Bringing a classic children’s book to animated life isn’t easy, especially when the author is Dr. Seuss. But Netflix has assembled an allstar vocal cast—including Michael Douglas, Diane Keaton, Jeffrey Wright, John Turturro, Tracy Morgan, and Keegan-Michael Key—and somehow figured out how to make Green Eggs and Ham stretch into a 13-episode cartoon series. SNOOPY IN SPACE Apple TV+ Ready to blast off with Snoopy? The world’s favorite doghouse aviator gets his big chance in this brand-new 12-episode animated series, as Snoopy’s dream of heading into space comes true. Naturally, the whole Peanuts gang is along for the out-ofthis-world adventure that encourages kids to explore science in a fun-filled way. • NOVEMBER 2019 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 83
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THE ANNUAL HOLIDAY GUIDE TO NYC By Natasha Bazika
t’s the most beautiful time of the year when New York City finds its magic in the 50,000 twinkling lights on the Rockefeller Center Tree, and the twirling Rockettes. And, of course, there’s always the wish for a blanket of pure white snow that turns Central Park into a winter wonderland. Whether this is your first time or your fiftieth time, Christmas in New York is an experience that should be on everyone’s bucket list. Unwrap your festivities with our special holiday guide, where we highlight the best events to attend, and the best sights to see from now through to December. HOLIDAY PARADES & FESTIVALS The season kicks off with the Thanksgiving Day Parade and a host of tree lightings and festivals to keep the season alive right into the new year. Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade New York’s own Thanksgiving Day Parade is one of the most iconic global holiday events drawing in over 3 million people a year on the streets and 50 million watching at home. This year the parade will be taking place on Thursday November 28th from 9am to noon. The parade will kick-off between West 77th Street and Central Park West and will make its way down to Columbus Circle, Central Park South and 6th Avenue and finally will come to a stop at Macy’s Herald Square. As for the balloons, this year parade-goers will see a variety of characters including astronaut Snoopy, Smokey Bear— which hasn’t been seen since 1993—Chase from Paw Patrol, Goku, Olaf, Pillsbury Doughboy and much more—most measuring over 30 feet long. The crowd-pleasing floats will include New York Life (first appearance in the parade), 123 Sesame Street, Ronald McDonalds’ Big Red Car, Kinder Chocolate Factory, 3D Christmas Calendar, Mount Rushmore, and so much more. Don’t Miss Before the balloons rise from the Manhattan Skyline on Thursday; you can get a behind the scenes look at the Balloon Inflation. You could be the first one to see the brand new Snoopy in his astronaut suit, or Smokey Bear, who is returning to celebrate his 75th Birthday. Taking place at the American Museum of National History (just off Central Park West between 77th and 81st St), the Balloon Inflation begins around 1 pm. But keep in mind the balloons don’t start taking shape until around 4:30 pm, with the last area admission at 8 pm. If you show up in the evening, there are many more balloons to see, but also more massive crowds than if you were to show up earlier. Either way, pick a good spot and watch these gigantic characters come to life. Info: macys.com/ social/parade.
Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade
Lincoln Square Annual Winter’s Eve On Monday, December 2nd, the Annual Winter’s Eve at Lincoln Square—New York’s largest holiday festival will begin with the tree lighting ceremony. The highly anticipated event promises a lively lineup of legendary performers, musicians, dancers, street entertainment and more to ring in the holiday season and light up the Upper West Side. Info: winterseve.nyc. Luminocity Festival This year immerse yourself in a wonderland of lights at the Luminocity Festival held at Randall’s Island Park from November 23rd to January 5, 2020. This family-friendly event includes three journeys; The Winter Fantasy, The Wild Adventure, and The Sweet Dream. Each journey has its own theme with a spectacular display of lights. This is a must-see light spectacle this holiday season. Info: luminocityfestival.com. NOVEMBER 2019 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 85
HOLIDAY THEATER Christmas shows are on everyone’s mind as we all prepare for the holidays. How can you have Christmas in New York without the latest Christmas Spectacular and a whole bunch of Nutcrackers and A Christmas Carol? The Radio City Christmas Spectacular Head to Radio City Music Hall to see the famous Rockettes and their high-stepping Christmas Spectacular, which has been entertaining audiences since 1993. This year if you’re looking for something special for the dancer in your life, you can buy tickets to take a 3-hour dance class with the Rockettes themselves. The high-energy class includes choreography from the Christmas Spectacular, a mock audition, and Q&A with the Rockettes, as well as several photo opportunities with the dancers and Santa himself! Price also includes premium tickets to the show, pre-show reception buffet and open-bar, and a private entrance into the hall—it’s an experience not to be missed. This year’s show will run from November 8, 2019 through January 5, 2020. Info: rockettes.com. New York City Ballet The Nutcracker The New York City Ballet’s production of George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker is at the heart of New York City’s holiday season. Whether a family tradition or a once-in-a-lifetime visit, your experience of this glittering classic ballet will stay with you forever. Young and young-at-heart will be transported to a magical place filled with adorable children, marching toy soldiers, waltzing snowflakes, and some of the most breathtaking costumes ever seen. The most famous example is the massive Christmas tree that grows to 40 feet, evoking audible gasps from the audience every time. This year’s performances will be held from November 29, 2019 through January 5, 2020, at the David H. Koch Theater, Lincoln Center. Info: nycballet.com. A Christmas Carol Charles Dickens’ classic tale comes to Broadway this holiday season. Prepare to meet a brand new Scrooge (Campbell Scott) as this gloriously festive reimaging sweeps into The Lyceum Theater. Brimming with wit, festivity and Victorian charm, discover why A Christmas Carol remains the world’s favorite holiday show. Joining Scott are Tony winners Andrea Martin and LaChanze, who will star as the Ghost of Christmas Past and Ghost of Christmas Present respectively. Open from November 20, 2019 through January 5, 2020. Info: telecharge.com. Rockefeller Tree Lighting ©DianeBondareff and AP Images for Tishman Speyer
The Nutcracker
HOLIDAY TREES The Tree at Rockefeller Center is hands down the iconic Christmas image and continues to attract visitors every holiday season. However, there are beautiful conifers spread throughout the city that deserve your attention. Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree It’s the most celebrated of holiday trees and a classic destination for holiday visitors and residents alike. The 86th annual tree lighting will be December 4th and will continue to light the iconic skyline into the new year. Info: rockefellercenter.com/holidays. Bryant Park Tree Lighting Skate-acular This New York City Christmas tradition is fun for the whole family. Each year a celebrity guest reads an original Christmas tale to the crowd. World-class skaters bring the story to life as they whiz around on the ice under the stars. The finale is the best part—when the tree is lit, and fireworks light up the sky. This year the tree lighting will take place on December 5th at 6 pm. Info: bryantpark.org/programs. Origami Christmas Tree At American Museum Of Natural History For over 30 years, the AMNH has celebrated the joyous with its 13foot Origami Tree. The museum draws inspiration from its exhibits for the 1,000 folded-paper works, constructed by volunteers throughout the year. Info: amnh.com. Central Park Holiday Lighting Watch thousands of lights animate Central Park at the 21st annual holiday lighting on November 29th. Bring the family to meet Santa, watch an ice carving demonstration, sing carols on the Plaza, and indulge in hot cocoa and cookies. Info: centralpark.org/central-parkholiday-lighting. Hidden Trees: Lighting Up The City Even though there are dedicated Christmas Tree Lighting events, keep an eye out for the hidden trees of the city. The Park Avenue trees that line the iconic stretch (between 54th and 97th street) are always a delight and make for a scenic detour. If you’re near Wall Street, head to the New York Stock Exchange to see the large Christmas tree at the front. The tree will be lighted in late November.
86 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | NOVEMBER 2019
HOLIDAY WINDOWS A visit to New York City during the holiday season wouldn’t be complete without a view of the city’s department store windows. Barneys New York If you’re shopping along Madison Avenue, Barneys windows are a must-see. Every year they show hip and stylish displays, accented with a dose of fun. Info: Madison Ave. at East 61st St. Bergdorf Goodman Holiday windows feature high-fashion and authentic antiques: each a work of art. Put this one on your list of must-dos. Info: Fifth Ave. at West 58th St. Bloomingdale’s The holiday window displays are playful and on display before Black Friday, so holiday shoppers can enjoy them throughout the season. Info: Lexington Ave. at East 59th St. Macy’s Here windows depict animated scenes of New York. In years past, Miracle on 34th Street and a Charlie Brown Christmas have created a stir on 34th Street. Info: Broadway at West 34th St. Saks Fifth Avenue The holiday window displays feature funny animations. Conveniently located, Saks Fifth Avenue’s windows are located across from the Rockefeller Center Promenade. Don’t miss: Saks also produces a beautiful Winter Palace Light Show on the facade of the building during the evening hour. Info: Fifth Ave. at East 49th St. Bryant Park Holiday Market
HOLIDAY MARKETS Shopping for gifts is already stressful enough, so why not go to these holiday markets for a fun night out, with food, unique gifts, and that magical atmosphere. It certainly will get you in the holiday spirit. Bank Of America Winter Village At Bryant Park The Holiday Shops include more than 100 boutique-like kiosks offering lovely gift ideas from jewelry, decorative goods, local foods, and much more—for all ages. The Holiday Shops are housed in Bryant Park’s custom-designed booths, and for the first time, will be open before Halloween. Info: wintervillage.nyc. Deck The Stalls/Rooftop At Pier 17 Starting in mid-December, shoppers will find a winter wonderland on the Rooftop at Pier 17 this year. Skate the skyline rink, eat your way through the stalls or cozy up with a winter cocktail and take in the sights from this magical spot. Info: pier17ny.com. Grand Central Holiday Fair Holiday Fair is the only one held indoors. This year, the fair will fill Vanderbilt Hall with vendors offering an incredible array of holiday gifts. Clothing for adults and children, handbags, hand-crafted jewelry and accessories for men and women top the list. The fair is open through December 24th. Info: grandcentralterminal.com. Columbus Circle Holiday Market This market is considered by many as one of the most elegant places for holiday shopping. Conveniently located near the entrance to Central Park, at 59th Street, shoppers enjoy walking around discovering one-of-a-kind items, including art and jewelry, from local designers. (closes December 24th). Info: urbanspacenyc.com. Union Square Holiday Market Over 100 merchants are on hand to bring you unique gifts. Handblown glass, housewares, handmade leather goods, bags, and accessories are on display for purchase. There’s also a variety of handmade jewelry. As in years past, there will also be nibbles and noshes throughout the market, which is open through December 24th. Info: urbanspacenyc.com. • NOVEMBER 2019 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 87
NEW YORK, NY
ENTREPRENEUR’S CORNER MARYANNE PARKER By Lillian Langtry
ave you ever been reminded to mind your p’s and q’s? Well, unless you were working a mechanical printing press or playing a game of Scrabble, chances are you were subtly being told to mind your manners.
Maryanne Parker takes this subject to heart. She’s the international business and social etiquette expert who has been teaching the timeless practice of etiquette in the boardroom, ballroom, and classroom for nearly a decade. As the founder of Manor of Manners, an etiquette consulting business, Parker provides its clients with the confidence, skills, self-awareness, and knowledge that will help equip them to reach their professional and personal goals, using proven methods for easy learning. Manor of Manners specializes in engaging public speaking arrangements, elite coaching, and certification programs tailored to the client’s needs. “Good manners enabled me to be extremely successful in Corporate America and are the inspiration behind my Etiquette consulting business,” Parker says. “I can’t help but think of this quote by Etiquette expert, Jeanne Nelson, A degree will get your foot in the door, and good manners will open it. In the U.S. we refer good manners as good business and consider soft skills as a management tool. In fact, according to a recent study, 85 percent of our success is based on our social skills.”
A LACK OF CIVILITY
Originally from Bulgaria, Parker came to the U.S. 15 years ago. Living and working in this global economy, she developed her training and certification programs reaching London, San Diego, New York City, and Los Angeles. Additionally, Parker also conducts the Etiquette program in The Bahamas. “I worked in the corporate world for almost 20 years. My background was in accounting when I noticed a huge void in civility and good manners. This was especially true in the corporate world, which prompted my idea for getting into the field of etiquette. The rest, as they say, is history!” In addition, Parker is the author of two number one international bestselling books The Sharpest Soft Skill (business etiquette) and Posh Overnight (social etiquette). Both are available on Amazon.com in paperback and Kindle editions. The Sharpest Soft Skill pinpoints the importance of soft skills, poise, elegance, and sophistication in corporate success. Posh Overnight is a contemporary guide adjusted to the constantly evolving world of etiquette, beginning from the days of Louis XIV of France down to modern-day 21-century manners. 88 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | NOVEMBER 2019
GOOD MANNERS ARE NECESSARY
Parker’s credentials are impeccable. So much so that she is certified by the Protocol School of Washington which trains the White House and the Pentagon, the International School of Protocol and Diplomacy in Brussels, and Minding Manners in London. She frequently speaks on the topic of etiquette and recently spoke at entrepreneurial conferences held at the U.S. Military Academy West Point, Harvard Club of Boston and NASDAQ. As Parker told us, “Etiquette and good manners are often associated with ballroom dancing, castles, and odd rituals. Some might even say it’s old-fashioned. Etiquette is a timeless practice, as its purpose is to show respect and make everyone feel valued, comfortable, and at ease. The etiquette expert was a recent speaker at Carnegie Hall’s Living Legends event along with nine highly successful entrepreneurs and business legends including Martha Stewart, Ice T and Coco Austin, Michael Gerber, Jerry Greenfield, Steve Larsen, Walter O’Brien, Dylan Howard, and Hal Elrod. Her presentation “Etiquette Secrets to Save Your Life and Catapult You into Luxury Lifestyle” shared etiquette essentials from her vast knowledge of diplomacy, protocol, and intercultural relations. Parker believes honing one’s soft skills is a crucial element of achieving professional success. “I would love to share five essential business etiquette tips with you today. These tips will help you present yourself and your business with ease, class, and confidence.” Communication It’s one of the most important skills you will have as a business professional. Your non-verbal communication skills need to convey a positive professional, warm approach because the client or business partner might not remember your name, but surely they will remember how you make them feel. Also, your verbal skills need to meet the necessary criteria for a business professional. Use polite words, do not use slang and bad language. While slang and the occasional curse word can give the illusion that you are relaxed, it often makes others uncomfortable. Punctuality In some countries, punctuality is not considered an essential element of professionalism. But in the U.S., this is one of the most important components of a successful business. The U.S. believes that time is money, so being on time, shows your dedication to your job, business partners, and clients. It also indicates that you are capable of handling responsibilities. Let’s face it, who wants to work with a person, who doesn’t project a sense of commitment? Proper Attire American culture values a relaxed look and formalities (especially in dress) can often seem outdated. But how you dress has a meaning. Our attire reflects our presence and personality. Also, your attire demonstrates that you value and respect others and their events. There are basic guidelines for business attire, and we need to stay within them. Social Networking We realize that over 300 million people are using Facebook, and the number is growing. We really need to be aware of the posts we share, and always need to ask ourselves, “Is this appropriate?” or “is it possible this post could hurt somebody’s feelings?” People should be able to exchange thoughts and ideas in a very civil manner, without being a target of abuse. Be sure to distinguish your personal profile from your professional page. Competition & Conflict It’s an inevitable part of the business. The way we handle competition and conflict reveals our true colors. While competition can leave a bad taste in your mouth, let’s try to look at its silver lining. Also, try replacing competition with collaboration. Collaboration and healthy competition shows maturity and demonstrates that your passion trumps the need to win. No matter the case, the conflict has to be handled with grace and dignity. No stranger to the media, Parker has been sharing her etiquette advice on most TV networks and print media. In her free time, she is involved with Professional Women Group of Dress for Success (San Diego), which helps underprivileged women gain financial independence and self-sufficiency. She inspires women with the message that you do not need money to have class, while sharing etiquette tips on style, dressing for job interviews, and more. For more information on Maryanne Parker, visit manorofmanners.com. • NOVEMBER 2019 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 89
NEW YORK, NY
Anna Estrada
MY NEW YORK STORY ANNA ESTRADA By Bailey Beckett
nna Estrada’s office is filled with photos of adorable babies, tots and teens, but they’re not her own. Well, kind of. As CEO of the New YorkbasedTotsTo Adults (TTA) Model Management, Estrada is responsible for casting talent in advertisements. Her list of clients is as varied as Disney, Nike, Visa, Gerber, Mattel, Fisher-Price, TJ Maxx, among many others. You may not recognize their names, but you’ve seen them: Kannon Skoyles (from the Hugh Jackman movie The Greatest Showman), Chloe Casanova (Are You Smarter Than a 5th Grader?), Mya Ali (Nickelodeon, Justice) and Kianna Burke (who has appeared in ads for Target, Lovesac, The View, Party City, and Company Store) are just a few of her models. Estrada brings 17 years of experience in the modeling industry. Her passion for her work, protective instincts of her talent, in-depth knowledge of the business, and her background in finance and accounting has helped make Tots To Adults one of the most successful model management companies in the industry. “Our focus is on career development and growth for all our children, so they have successful and profitable careers,” Estrada says. “We are invested in each client. Not only are we creating amazing opportunities for our models and their families, but we are giving them documented memories that will last a lifetime.” 90 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | NOVEMBER 2019
Mya Justice Believe in Magic for catalog
Santino in Fall Winter Campaign
Chloe with John Cena
Tell us about Tots To Adults? We are a family-friendly, boutique management company working in fashion, print, TV, film, commercial, etc. We believe our talent is not just one of many, but can pride themselves on being one of the chosen few. Our roster is diverse. We are interested in signing only a few with the same experience and ability. Everyone is unique in their own right, and we are personally and professionally invested in each one of our talents. What makes you stand out in this competitive industry? We are an all in management company invested in our talent and clients around the clock, not just during office hours. Each talent is an investment for our company and, therefore, is treated as such. A lot of thought and effort goes into each talent and what they are submitted for. We have a substantial family presence on our roster. We cultivate relationships and as a result, the entire family is willing to audition when needed. I am personally available at all hours. Why do models sign with you? There are no secrets or fees; we are very straightforward. We are also willing to go above and beyond for every client. When we bring talent in for a meeting, I am always present and accompanied by an assistant/division head. In many agencies, the owner will not be part of the meeting. Because we can be reached 24/7, if the parents need a helping hand, they feel comfortable reaching out at any time with comments, questions, and concerns. I like to ensure that our experiences are positive, rewarding, and that our client’s expectations are exceeded. We also work with a multitude of different agencies and casting directors. I am personally involved in every decision. It’s my name and my brand—something to be proud of and stand behind. Michael DVF Diane Von Furstenberg
What is your experience in the modeling industry? I’ve been in the industry for about 20 years; I’ve seen every side of the industry. I’ve been a CFO, CEO for both agency and a management company. I have experienced and dealt with all kinds of issues within the industry such as managing employees, addressing a parent’s frustrations, monitoring stage moms, etc. The second it stops being fun for a child, and it becomes someone else’s dream, my first suggestion is to walk away from what could be a potential issue. I have learned the do’s and don’ts from life experiences. What are the sensitivities involved with child modeling? It is crucial to be as protective of every child as possible. No one should be blind to the possibility of scams, etc. Some people do take advantage, and that is why our credibility is key. I treat every child model as I would treat my own children, with respect and the assurance that they are respected in the industry. Also, we only submit them to reputable clients. Our number one priority is to protect the children, their innocence, and keep it fun and light. A child best represents a product when they are having fun while working. It’s not about TTA, not about the parents, it is about the child, their well-being and happiness. How do you identify future models? What do you look for in signing them? Charisma, personality, cooperativeness. It is not just about what they say or do, but sometimes they can speak to you without saying a thing. Cute kids are important, but it is all about the ones who capture your attention and can command the room. Those are the ones who can sell a product, take an amazing photo, and communicate with no words. What kind of safeguards do you have in place for models working with adults? We only work with clients, photographers, and stylists that are highly recommended by reputable and respected industry professionals. A parent or an adult will always accompany talent under 18 years of age. Once signed, our talent gives only company info when auditioning or going to a job. No personal info can ever be exchanged. For more information on Tots To Adults, contact Anna Estrada at ae.tta@icloud.com. • NOVEMBER 2019 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 91
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Holiday dinner and dogs
PAWS DOWN…TAILS UP
TIPS FOR A HAPPY HOLIDAY WITH YOUR PET By Dr. Jason Nicholas, The Preventive Vet
aking a preventive approach can eliminate a great deal of stress and reduce your chances of ending up in the animal E.R. spending thousands of dollars (and several hours) over the holidays. Here are some tips on what you (and your guests) can do to ensure a safe holiday season for your pets. Cats and Poinsettas
Food Whether it’s turkey or stuffing, the general rule is to steer clear of feeding your four-legged friend any table scraps. Sure, a small piece of turkey (without the skin or any seasonings) isn’t likely to hurt your pup, but don’t push it. Otherwise, you could be spending the holiday nursing a very sick dog. Keep the turkey bones away too, as they’re brittle and splinter easily. The jagged ends are easily able to puncture your pet’s esophagus, stomach, or intestines. And steer clear of the side dishes, as well. Many stuffing recipes call for lots of butter (pancreatitis risk), onions and garlic (red blood cell destruction, anemia risk), or even raisins or currants (kidney failure risk). The same is often the case for the mashed potatoes, too. Well, minus the raisins and currants, of course! So keep it safe and feed your four-legged family a pet-friendly feast instead. Sweets Speaking of food, who doesn’t love chocolate during the holidays (or any other time during the year)? Just remember when giving or receiving chocolate as a gift, be careful not to leave it out where pets can get to it. Pets can get to more areas than you might think and know that wrapping paper is no match for the nose and teeth of a dog hot on the scent of such a forbidden treat. Watch out too for any sugar-free sweets you or your guests might be cooking up or giving for the holidays. If they contain xylitol, a common sugar substitute, they need to be kept FAR away from your dog’s reach. Xylitol is extremely dangerous for dogs. NOVEMBER 2019 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 93
Kitchen Dangers Aluminum foil and plastic wrap present a real danger. When covered in food scraps and drippings, such items become a hard-to-resist treat for your pets. If ingested, these can cause inflammation or obstruction of your pet’s digestive tract. Cooking twine/rubber bands Used in the preparation of the turkey, such objects can pose a very significant danger to your pets, particularly cats. If they get partially stuck within their digestive tract, such linear foreign bodies can insidiously lead to damage to the wall of the intestine. The result is leakage of intestinal contents into the abdominal cavity necessitating surgery and a prolonged hospital stay. Trash Cans/Compost Bins Kitchen trash cans and compost pails are a dietary indiscretion treasure trove for mischievous dogs and cats. From turkey bones and giblets to discarded coffee grounds and filters, trash cans and compost bins contain many significant health problems for pets. Be sure to truly secure these hazards by making sure that they are closed tightly and kept safely in a secure area. Plants Many commonly given plants and flowers can cause problems for cats and dogs, and such poisonings can range in severity from mild digestive upset to organ failure. Ironically, poinsettias, one of the more-well-known plant hazards for pets, aren’t that hazardous to pets. Keep flowers and plants truly out of reach of your pets. And do your hosts a favor by giving them only pet-safe foliage. Gift Wrap Curly ribbon and harvest-themed twine pose a risk of linear foreign body gastrointestinal obstruction to pets, especially cats. Either don’t use them in your wrapping or make sure to dispose of them safely and promptly once the gift is unwrapped. Your Guests Coats and purses are dangerous to pets because of what is often inside of them. Many people keep their cigarettes, gum (including sugar-free xylitol gums and nicotine replacement gums), medications, and other items (some legal, some not) in their coat pockets or bags. A pet ingesting something from a guest’s bag or coat is a prevalent scenario on the line at the animal poison control and in veterinary emergency rooms. Don’t let this happen to your pets. Hang all coats and bags safely in a closet or on a wall hook or coat rack to avoid such a pet emergency. Doing so will not just prevent your pets from getting poisoned, but it will also prevent your pets from soiling or destroying your guests’ possessions. Weekend Guests From grooming products and medications, which can cause systemic poisoning, overnight guests and their bags are a pet hazard minefield. An easy way to keep your pets safe is requesting each visitor to keep the doors to their room and bathroom closed and that they keep all bags up off the floor. Safe Place
Gift Wrap and dogs
KEEP IN MIND
During a holiday party, it’s a good idea to provide your pets with a safe area for them to spend time when the festivities begin. Doing so will not only prevent many of the gastrointestinal, poisoning, and other problems discussed earlier, but it will also keep them secure. Enrich their area by providing water and interactive toys to keep your pets happy in this safe area. Use care with dogs that are toy/ food protective, as you don’t want your environmental enrichment to lead to in-fighting amongst your pets! For cats, don’t forget to provide them with a clean and easily accessible litter box, too. Ideally, you should get your pets used to spending time in this safe area well in advance of the holidays. For additional information to your holiday pet health and wellness questions, visit Preventive Vet at preventivevet.com--a collective of veterinarians led by Dr. Jason Nicholas. •
94 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | NOVEMBER 2019
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TIME OUT WITH… KATE CONNICK By AP Connolly
ate Connick is leader and a deep thinker who genuinely wants to do her part in making this world a better place. The young fashion designer is the middle daughter of two famous parents, Harry Connick, Jr. and Jill Goodacre who seeks to understand others and is determined to fill the world with kindness, understanding and compassion. Her discipline, creative abilities, and sensitivity have resulted in the successful launch of Kate Connick Clothing which just partnered with Dream Downtown to host a pop-up in the lobby. Kate began her design process two years ago when she drew two rings and a ribbon. The rings represent people and the ribbon represents a shared idea to bring everyone together. Kate incorporated this concept into her original designs by using rings, grommets, ribbons and cords. After starting with just two circles and a line through them to represent unity, she’s now continuing to expand through her connection with others and desire to produce eco-friendly items. The designer wants to create clothing with a purpose and feel comfortable and confident all at the same time. For Kate, fashion starts with confidence and to feel confident, you must feel comfortable. She’s unique and special and definitely braced for great things ahead. Although you grew up in Connecticut, you have a special affinity to New Orleans. What was your childhood like? My Dad is from New Orleans, so growing up we spent a lot of time there. New Orleans is a very special place to me, unlike any other city in the world. I’m honored to have a connection to such a unique place. I’m particularly fond of the food, music, and especially the people. Everyone’s so kind and lively. Your leadership skills were first noticed during your short time at Furman University. How did the your Piece of Mind movement begin? I started Piece of Mind, an anti-bullying club when I was a freshman at Furman. The name comes from the idea that in order to achieve peace of mind, you must share a piece of your mind. I had a tough time in high school, like many others, and it was important to me to give back in college when I was in a better place. The idea was to have college students facilitate meetings with high school students going through a tough time to help them communicate issues in their school with a counselor present. Unity is an important part of your life. Tell us about the symbolism of Rings and Ribbons and how you’ve incorporated them into your designs. Before I even thought of designing clothes, I came up with the idea of rings and ribbons. It was around the time I was working on my Piece of Mind Club that I came up with the symbols by drawing two circles and a line through them. I then thought of how I could incorporate the message into designs. When I first started designing, I used grommets and rings to represent people and a cord or ribbon tying through them to represent a shared idea. This aspect of the brand is still very important to me and I continue to spread the love through connecting with others at events and trunk shows. 96 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | NOVEMBER 2019
Kate Connick
You have the ability to identify with all generations. How has this helped you in business and creating your fashions? I’ve always been told I’m an old soul. I sometimes connect more with my parents friends than people my own age. My company has led me to work with incredible people from different generations. I started the business by asking anyone I knew with a fashion background for advice. I went to professionals who had their own line and this ultimately helped me get going. I wasn’t shy to give the fashion industry a try and everyone I’ve approached has been tremendously generous and helpful. What is it like being the daughter of Harry Connick Jr and Jill Goodacre? I couldn’t be more proud to have them as my parents. They are supermodels, literally. Their drive, creativity, energy, intelligence, and lovingness inspires me to grow and take on whatever goals I have. They are the reason I pursue dreams and want to make a change in this world. My family teaches me to live life to the fullest. I respect my parents for providing a safe and loving home for my sisters and I to grow up in and for always encouraging us to speak up and do the right thing. How does Kate Connick relax? I recently got a defuser, which I’m obsessed with! I use eucalyptus, lavender, or mint to help me relax. I love to snuggle up with a book and some tea, journal or watch a show. I’m a big fan of the sauna where I typically meditate. Where do you see yourself in 10 years? In ten years, I hope to be married with kids and working on my clothing line. I hope to have opened up a few store locations and be starring in a psychological thriller TV show or film. What is your advice to someone who wants to forge ahead and create their own path? I advise anyone with an idea to be a leader if it’s something he or she believes in. It’s easy to have doubts and hold yourself back from fear, but don’t let that get in the way of what you’re trying to achieve if it’s meaningful to you. Only you know what’s right and don’t let anyone hold you back. Believe in yourself and trust the process. •
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