New York Lifestyles Magazine - October 2020

Vol. 6 #7 | October 2020

CLASSIQUES AGENTS OF CHANGE

MODERNES

LOY CARLOS & KENNETH J. MOORE LIFE & STYLE

GET READY FOR HALLOWEEN

TRAVEL

NEW YORK STATE’S FALL FOLIAGE

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SADDLE RIVER, NJ

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Approximately 17,000 square foot custom built country estate offers a great floorplan for large scale entertaining. State-of-the-art kitchen, 1st floor master bedroom suite, indoor and outdoor pool/spa, cabana, reg. lighted tennis court and 6-car garage.

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Contents

15

FEATURES

12 From The Publisher 15 Cover Feature—Classiques Modernes: Agents Of Change

22

STYLE 20 Life & Style: Halloween Edition 22 My Darling Ivy Salon: Meet The Hair Care Dream Team

TRAVEL 25 32 34 36

New York State Fall Foliage 2020: Best Places For A Getaway Day Tripping On Long Island: Castles, Chateaux & Charm Madison Beach Hotel: Peaceful Days On Connecticut’s Shore Triple Treat: Plan Now, Travel Later To The U.S. Virgin Islands

25

REAL ESTATE & HOME DECOR 38 Around Town: Rustic, Classic, Modern. It’s All Here In NYC 41 Renaissance Properties: Ahead Of The Times 44 Financial Freedom: Investing In Real Estate May Be The Answer 6 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | OCTOBER 2020

38

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Contents

46

50

HEALTH & WELLNESS 46 Detox Done Right: Lose Weight And Re-Boot During COVID-19 48 At-Home Self Care: A Guide To Real Healing

FOOD & DRINK

56

50 Mario’s: A Second Home For Southern Italian Fare!

52 Nerai: It’s Greek For Me! 54 Great Bites: Trick & Treat

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT 56 On Stage: BroadwayHD—Your Ticket To The Best Dramas 58 On The Small Screen 60 MvVO Art Ad Show 2020: Celebrating Creativity & Talent

66

NEW YORK, NY 63 66 68 70 72

Paws Down, Tails Up: Zoom In On Halloween Entrepreneur’s Corner: Joe Wilson of The Quiver My New York Story: Eha Urbsalu, Viking Beauty Secrets A New York Rant: Table For None, Please Time Out With…Tony Fortuna Of TBar Steak & Lounge

8 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | OCTOBER 2020

68

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OUR CONTRIBUTORS MELANIE CARDEN Melanie is a Boston-based writer and editor. Formerly a newspaper columnist, she writes about social justice, culture, cooking, adventure, and all things curious and creative. She earned her BA—with a concentration in Food and Culture Journalism— from UMass Amherst. Melanie is a passionate advocate for lifelong learning—the traditional, immersive, and online classrooms alike— and remains an active alumnus for the University Without Walls department of her alma mater. Her work has been featured in such publications as The Gay & Lesbian Review, Incomer Magazine, The Winchester Star Newspaper, and Cleaver Magazine. Mel can’t resist a good coffee mug and is obsessed with picnics. Catch her on melaniecarden.com.

ARMAND MUSEY Armand is President and Founder of Summit Ridge Group, an internationally recognized provider of business valuation and financial consulting services in the telecommunications, media, and satellite industries. He has over 20 years of equity research, investment banking, and consulting experience in the communications sector.

Prior to founding Summit Ridge Group, Armand led the satellite industry research teams including Solomon Smith Barney where he also covered the wireless tower industry.

Armand is also co-founder of Atelier86, an artists’ salon held in his co-op apartment at 425 East 86th Street in Manhattan. His interests include classical music, post-modern philosophy, and mountain climbing. He is also a member of the National Arts Club. In 2008, Armand completed a longtime goal of climbing the highest peak on each of the seven continents (the “Seven Summits”), with a successful ascent of Mt. Everest. He is a graduate of Northwestern University’s law and business schools.

ESTHER REIZES-LOWENBEIN Esther (Esti) Reizes-Lowenbein is passionate and committed to redefining the face of real estate by offering professional and ondemand service. She services the commercial real estate market, as well as residential in Rockland County, NY.

Esti is an entrepreneur, investor and philanthropist.

She takes great pride in her eight wonderful children.

Additionally, Esti, together with her husband are extremely active in their community and run a non-for profit, providing relief for underprivileged individuals.

Esti is committed to the skills of honesty, perpetual persistence, trustworthiness, integrity and professionalism, while being personable. Considered a “serial networker” and has a knack for connecting buyers, sellers and investors.

10 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | OCTOBER 2020

Vol. 6 #7 | October 2020 President / Publisher BILL MASON Editor-in-Chief Patricia Canole

Art Director Eric Duncan

Editor-at-Large Jeremy Murphy

Features Ruth J. Katz

Entertainment Jenny Peters, Lori Zelenko

Lifestyle Griffin Miller

Op-Ed Columnist Sean-Patrick M. Hillman

Special Projects Natasha Bazika, Norah Bradford

Chief Photographer Annie Watt Contributing Writers Bailey Beckett, Harry Brads, Melanie Carden, AP Connolly, Karen Dubin Peter Elston, Dr. Peter Kalellis, Kristie Kellahan, Lee Gabay, Anne Grenier Irvina Lew, Elizabeth Martin, Armand Musey, Darren Paltrowitz Jill Parrish, Meryl Pearlstein, Anne Raso, Esther Reizes-Lowenbein Jeff & Stephanie Sylva, Eha Urbsala, Sara Weisenfeld, Stacey Zable Executive Vice President of Sales LYLE SELTZER Sales Bill Mason Sr. - Director of New Business Development John Miller - Sales Manager Michael Stulmaker - Sales Manager Director of Operations Kurt Nesheim

Advertising BLUE VISTA 725

Internet Presence Scott Cuollo

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. ©2020 New York Lifestyles Magazine

Cover Photography by Neil Tandy Hair & Makeup by John Edington for Angelo David Salon Shot on location at Renaissance Properties Bradley & Ken Fishel/632 Broadway Rooftop & 8th Floor

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FROM THE PUBLISHER ith large gatherings still a no-go in New York due to the coronavirus, what is to become of our beloved city? We have already been feeling some of the effects of watching professional sports with empty stadiums and even the total shutdown of 31 Broadway shows until next year. But are we mentally prepared to get thrown into our first holiday/winter season of dealing with all the cancellations of events our family and friends have been accustomed to over the years that has given us great feelings and warmth?

Check us out on the web!

Read Any of Our Issues In Digital Format on:

Issuu.com | Apple Newsstand | Our Website

I know that everyone talks about how pivoting virtually has become a great way to accomplish many everyday chores, work tasks, and keep in touch with people socially. But where my concerns weigh heavy is that it will never be able to replace or satisfy even temporarily the urge for human interaction and the experience one recalls that burns into a true memory.

Let’s take a moment and have a little reality check starting with October, the spookiest time of year. Our city’s Greenwich Village Halloween Parade, where over 50,000 costumed revelers attend, is now canceled. Even one of my family’s favorites in Sleepy Hollow N.Y, The Village of Tarrytown Halloween Parade, brings you back in time where everyone can visit small town USA for a day, and everything is perfect.

I believe I’m just scrapping at the tip of the iceberg of disappointment as you know it.

What about the dismantling of the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade? Even though it wasn’t totally scratched, it’s no longer on its 2.5-mile usual parade route. Now it’s shifting to a few blocks around Herald Square mainly for television purposes to capture something they could air for ratings. They have eliminated all the talented regional high school and college marching band performances that have been years in the making. And lest we forget the signature balloons; its traditional handlers will not fly those giant characters, but instead, have them specially rigged to a vehicle’s framework. And what hits me the hardest is not being able to take your children to that special evening the night before Thanksgiving to Macy’s traditional Giant Balloon Inflation event will now not take place at all.

My thoughts and concerns continually keep spiraling downward. After a perfect 87 year run of a cherished holiday tradition, the annual Christmas Spectacular starring the world-famous Radio City Rockettes will not raise its red curtains this season. We will be missing out on some holiday favorites such as the “Parade of the Wooden Soldiers” and the “Living Nativity.” In the coming weeks, I’m sure there will be more news to come about how the city will handle the lighting of the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree. Also, could you ever imagine Time Square on New Year’s Eve without any crowds at all, even if you only ventured as far as your own TV set?

Don”t get me wrong. My feelings and priorities are health and safety first for everyone. But we need to prepare ourselves for all the mental challenges ahead of us, especially in an already stressful time of year.

I look forward to hearing from you with comments, suggestions, and what you would like to see on the pages of New York Lifestyles and Pet Lifestyles magazines.

-Bill Mason

Publisher

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

(646) 259-2651 12 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | OCTOBER 2020

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FEATURES

CLASSIQUES MODERNES AGENTS OF CHANGE

By Harry Brads Hair & Makeup by John Edington for Angelo David Salon Shot on location at Renaissance Properties/Bradley & Ken Fishel/632 Broadway Rooftop & 8th Floor

hange comes when it comes. Unlike opportunity, it doesn’t knock. It requires no invitation,” says Aloysius “Loy” Carlos. With partner Kenneth J. Moore, he co-founded Classiques Modernes, a lifestyle and realty management and advisory company based in New York City.

Certainly, 2020 is a year that has brought about global lifestyle changes. Since the beginning of the year, most cities and countries worldwide have been in full or partial lockdown in one form or another. Where permitted, global travel is still severely restricted. In the United States, many parents are working from home. In many states, children are taking virtual classes. Social distancing measures have turned New York City sidewalks and streets into temporary restaurants. Even this is welcomed by New Yorkers, who crave social interaction and the open space that is missing in typical city apartments.

“Some people are saying New York is doomed, that there is a mass exodus, that people are moving to the suburbs or out of state. But historically speaking, New Yorkers have always moved away to Westchester, Long Island, New Jersey, Connecticut, and beyond. They may need more space, have a growing family, or sometimes want a change in lifestyle. As for widespread telecommuting, that’s a new reality. But that affects every metropolitan city in the world, not just New York City,” explains Carlos.

With over half a century of real estate experience between them, the principals of Classiques Modernes have seen, first-hand, changes in lifestyle, and how corporate structure affect where employees and executives live.

Kenneth J. Moore & Loy Carlos ©Neil Tandy

OCTOBER 2020 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 15

Loy Carlos ©Neil Tandy

16 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | OCTOBER 2020

Dealing with the pandemic has profoundly affected people—to reflect on their lives and their priorities.

SO, IT BEGAN

In 2004, an executive of Colgate Palmolive was being temporarily relocated, and his one-bedroom was referred to Carlos and Moore. From there, their portfolio of properties grew exponentially when two of the biggest relocation companies in the United States, based in Arizona, started assigning them all their New York City relocating executives working in top Fortune 500 companies.

“Up until the early 2000s,” explains Moore, “executives and employees were corporately relocated out of state or to different countries around the world, wherever they were needed. And those assignments usually lasted several years.” Together with the two relocation companies, Moore and Carlos handled the sales and rentals of several apartments and townhouses in Manhattan’s most coveted areas. In 2006, however, the law changed and out of state relocation companies were mandated to officially turn over direct management of properties to a “local” company. With strong encouragement from the relocation account managers and their New York City clients, Loy Carlos and Kenneth J. Moore then established their management firm, which is now Classiques Modernes Lifestyle & Estates.

“We did extremely well, working with corporate relocations until the 2009 financial crisis hit,” recalls Moore, “when we saw 70 percent of our accounts vanish in an instant. Companies were recalling employees back to the U.S. and were terminating positions.” But thanks to New York City’s resilience and years of experience in real estate brokerage, Carlos and Moore still manage several properties they sold to clients. Some are pied-aterre’s; some are straightforward investments. These properties require real estate managers to look after them to ensure that necessary maintenance and repairs are performed diligently and lease them or sell them when necessary. Acting as owners’ representatives, the two also attend board, construction, and any other meetings that require principals’ participation.

Today Classiques Modernes has an ever-growing portfolio thanks to a very affluent clientele that requires absolute discretion and a high service level.

Carlos and Moore manage most of these accounts with relative autonomy, establishing a successful track record built on years of trust.

OCTOBER 2020 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 17

LONGSTANDING RELATIONSHIPS

The two have set record sales throughout the years in brokerage, though they explain many of them go unpublicized. They regard confidentiality and discretion as crucial in preserving their relationships with high net worth buyers and sellers. Says Carlos, “Most of the clients who are drawn to us have impeccable taste, they are down to earth individuals who prefer to do what normal people do like ride a bike, go to a farmer’s market, go shopping, run in Central Park. They have nothing to prove to anyone; they know who they are.”

The duo recalls one of their first sales over two decades ago representing an advertising executive. They placed her apartment at a price other brokers said was impossible to get. After its sale, a couple of months later, the owner sent a letter expressing her gratitude and appreciation, describing their skills and professionalism as ‘highest by any standard of measure.’ “While we’ve sold apartments and townhouses with prices that range up to the mid- to high-seven figures, we never minimize the value of clients who have helped make all of what we do possible,” says Carlos. “Some of these properties we’ve now sold two or three times. Some clients now span multiple generations. We’ve worked with the grandparents, the parents, and now the children.

Moore adds, “These longstanding relationships form the foundation of our business.”

For sure, the real estate process has changed with the generations. Carlos recalls everything was photocopied and typed on a typewriter when he began in the business in 1989. Even word processors, a precursor to today’s computer, were few and far between. “We used to have a mainframe system. I was a teenager working part-time who got promoted as a full-time manager of listings and information systems of a large brokerage company because I was the only one who could figure out how a computer network worked. People who haven’t seen me since then are often confused about why I’m still in real estate and not in tech.”

Carlos credits most of what he has learned to his former employers, who had given him the freedom to grow and who showed confidence in him. “It wasn’t always easy. I had to argue for replacing dummy terminals with PCs. I had to fight for digital storefront displays when all other companies were pasting pictures and typed sheets on their windows.”

Today Classiques Modernes has an evergrowing portfolio thanks to a very affluent clientele.

LEARNING FROM THE PAST

He was a one-person in-house marketing production—taking photos, scanning transparencies, processing it in Adobe Photoshop 1, scanning floor plans, and redrawing them, then laying them together in one sheet and printing them in color. According to Carlos, set-up or flyers you see today were always outsourced at the time. “We had digitized videos loaded for listings as early as the mid-1990s. I recall attending a seminar during the early 90s when presenters told us that in the future, broadcast news would be watched directly from our personal computers in real-time! I was the only one in real estate sitting there—a kid barely in his 20s with long wavy hair, jeans, and dangling earring!”

Carlos and Moore both believe that the prolonged time dealing with the pandemic has profoundly affected people. “Yes, people are forced to move for financial and employment reasons,” Carlos suggests. “But I also believe that the downtime has allowed people to reflect on their lives and their priorities. So at least partially, some movement has to do with people aligning themselves with what they want in life.”

“The market will get tougher,” says Moore. “You have to pay attention to what’s going on. You have to innovate. As a small company, we are nimble and can adapt and adjust.” Carlos concludes, “In a booming market, everyone looks the same because anyone can sell. It’s when the market is tough when the truly experienced and skilled brokers stand out. Ken and I try to simplify things. Other people like to complicate things because they want to show people how important they are. When you walk the streets of Venice during peak tourist season, every store and restaurant is packed. You get what you can get. But it’s during the offseason when you get the time and space necessary to distinguish the real treasure from the trash.”

For more information on Classiques Modernes, visit classiquesmodernes.com. • 18 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | OCTOBER 2020

Kenneth J. Moore ©Neil Tandy

OCTOBER 2020 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 19

STYLE

LIFE & STYLE HALLOWEEN EDITION

By Griffin Miller

ctober…when trees reveal colorful coifs; jackets replace tank tops; apple cider and its hard cider cousin are the quaffs du jour; and Halloween, where we indulge our wildest sweet tooth and costume fantasies. As for the holiday’s supernatural rep, I say let’s ramp up the vamp this year with blood red delights and wicked brews—plus a handful of macabre-free autumnal splurges. Welcome, children of the night!

FINGERTIPS FOR THE WITCHING HOUR COME SIP A SPELL The jaded mantra in the musical Chicago is “Razzle Dazzle ‘Em,” and for the glam at heart (myself included), tis the season to get your finger freak on via Nailest, home to the hottest, sexiest, acrylic press on nails ever. With their “ready-to-ship” and handmade collections, these specialty sets of 24 run the gamut from conservative to wow! For October 31st, I recommend either the dangerously keen Stiletto or aptly named Coffin styles, but since Nailest’s roster of selections is staggering, do press on to their website, as I’ve only begun to scratch the surface. Info: thenailest.com.

Just saying the word “chocolate” may conjure a world of Willy Wonka’s Scrumdiddlyumptious candy bars, but the over-21 set may want to veer away from the oompa loompas and take a sip on the wild side with chocolateinfused 8-Ball Whiskey. Not likely to end up in any trickor-treater’s goodie bag, this delectable, award-winning blend of aged bourbon and exotic all-natural ingredients is the perfect addition to any adult Halloween party, masked, Zoomed, or otherwise. After sampling 8-Ball au natural, I moved on to the ultimate Irish Coffee. I’m hooked, even though it’s not officially a Halloween tradition… yet!).

Info: 8ballwhiskey.com.

ROCK MY WORLD

ROSE IS A ROSE IS A ROSE

In my indoor pandemic shadowland, phone chargers 101 have become a bête noir of annoyance—and I suspect I’m not alone.

Craving sleek, functional, and cord-free, I finally had my wishes granted with an Eggtronic Wireless Charging Stone. Round and winningly attractive, these high power babies rock (pun intended) all Qi-enabled devices and come in a number of megacool options, from black or white marble to lava stone (the latter currently gracing my desk). What can I say, except my iPhone has never looked happier! Info: Eggtronic.com.

Here’s to celebrating the marriage of two femme fatale items with happily-ever-after in their future. The duo, dubbed Roses are Red: Perfume & Lipstick Escentials by collaborators Sue Phillips (Sue Phillips House of Fragrance) and Heather Fink (The Sexiest Beauty) pair Sue’s bewitching Rose Floral Perfume with Heather’s killer Red Lipstick. Seductively presented in velvet and satin pouches, scent and lipstick have what it takes to upgrade the vixen quotient on All Hallows’ Eve. After all, what’s life without a little rose rapture and scarlet sorcery? Info: scenterprises.com; thesexiestbeauty.com.

20 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | OCTOBER 2020

BLOOMING AMAZING

DREAM CATCHER

Let me be the first to introduce you to Rosepops’ Flutter POPS. Unlike your average bouquets, these phantasmagorical flowers—100 percent actual roses—have been organically preserved and “planted in a pretty butterfly adorned box.

Meanwhile, building on the wonder of roses with a lifespan of a year or more, with the pull of a ribbon, the scented Rosepops pop up into display mode. Stunning bordering on astounding, you have the option of personalization (photos, charms, notes). My butterfly and initials charms were a most excellent touch. Info: rosepops.com.

The topic of sleep is potent nowadays thanks to our newfound bedtime schedules, increasingly muddled by bi-coastal and international video visits.

Basically, we’re doomed to jetlag without the jet.

Enter Silken Pure, my new favorite purveyor of such nighttime necessities as pillowcases, robes, and sleep masks. Made of the finest mulberry silk, these luxe creations are unparalleled when it comes to touch, all the while eluding the nightmare trio of allergens, scratchy synthetics, and dry skin. The pillowcases’ superpower extends to keeping bedhead at bay, while the robes make “slipping into something comfortable” a sumptuous reality. Info: silkenpure.com.

BOBBING FOR BAUBLES There’s a kind of alchemy to choosing jewelry that captures the essence, not only of who you are—but who you want to be on any given day. VUE By SEK, a line of handcrafted, art-infused earrings and necklaces, clearly knows how to zero in on the individual wearer. Their Deco-inspired studs and necklaces are elegant go-to pieces, while their drop earrings combine rhodium or 14K gold plate with precious stones, shells, and gems (quartz, agate, freshwater pearl, etc.) As for Halloween, might I suggest taking your Cruella de Vil Costume to the next level with a showstopping duo featuring Dalmatian jasper.

Info: vuebysek.com.

PINT-SIZED SPIRITS UNLEASHED When a product is seasonal and too good to pass up it’s definitely time to revisit the brand, in this case Tipsy Scoop, where booze-infused ice cream is the order of the day—or night. I mean who could resist their 2020 limited edition quartet of fall flavors: Spiked Spiced Pumpkin Pie, Vanilla Bean Bourbon, Tequila Hot Chocolate and “Hot” Buttered Rum—a four pint pack that beckons grown-ups to partay while wee ghosts, vampires, Batman and Wonder Women get their candy freak on. Special note: Tipsy Scoop founder Melissa Tavss and Director of Marketing Rachel Chitwood recently released the Tipsy Scoop Latest and Greatest Recipes cookbook.

Intoxicating! Info: tipsyscoop.com.

ABOUT FACE Lately, I’ve become obsessed with a blog starring a young woman who talks about this, that and the other while applying makeup. Particularly mesmerizing is her deft attention to the eye. Seriously, many times the end result always lands somewhere between high fashion and Tim Burton. However, in the real world where my face lives, versatility is key, and Danessa Myricks Beauty is the gold standard. Take for instance her Waterproof Cream Palettes: six colors that can go solo or blend into vibrant eye, lip, and cheek shades. Designed to complement all skin tones, they come in ingenious magnetic casings (and play nice with other makeup products!). Color me smitten. Info: danessamyricksbeauty.com. •

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STYLE

MY DARLING IVY

MEET THE HAIR CARE DREAM TEAM

By Ann Grenier

earing hair out over botched home cuts and dye jobs? Dreaming about the day when you can go back to the salon? Worry no more.

My Darling Ivy, the hotterthan-tongs Chelsea salon owned by Manny Rolon, Mark Bustos, and VJ Moscaritola, is again open for business.

“The days of talking to yourself in the mirror as if you are your own client, while you attempt to color or cut your hair, are safely at an end,” says VJ. The truth is, explains Manny, New York City’s stylist du jour, “Women are thirsting for a return to glamour, but after months of being cooped up inside, they’re seeking a new elegance—unstudied and unfussy, but always effortlessly chic.”

A lot of effort goes into looking effortless.

Whether it’s correcting the self-inflicted wounds of quarantine or adding life and luster to dull hair, landing on a new everyday look, or choosing a style for a special event, Manny and his team go over every detail with a fine toothcomb.

THE ESSENCE OF TIME According to Manny, who was caught off-guard these past months, his clients want to look great and want to be better informed. This is for Manny, who hails from three generations of hairdressers, and is an educator for the revered Oribe brand, and is a fountain of hair knowledge as are his team of star stylists.

It’s not just the who are treading a path to My Darling Ivy. “Male clients have learned to deal with the awkward grown-out phase through the stay-at-home months,” says Mark. “And sometimes a good reshaping is all it takes to convince them they can pull off more than one look.”

Although the layout and design of My Darling Ivy already allows for over six feet of separation between styling chairs, to further adhere to social distancing measures, the salon will expand its business hours to allow for a lower occupancy level throughout the day/week. “More than ever, as hairdressers and salon owners, we realize how important our roles are in people’s lives,” says Mark. “We are going above and beyond to keep everyone comfortable, safe, healthy, and feeling more beautiful again.”

Adds VJ: “At My Darling Ivy and Silver Vine Room” [their New Jersey salon], “we think it’s key to spend extra time with guests, not only to focus on their look but also conversing with them about their experiences during these unprecedented times. It’s has been a time of much solitude and having the time to sit and catch up is as important as hair care itself!”

For more information on My Darling Ivy, visit mydarlingivy.com. • 22 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | OCTOBER 2020

TRAVEL

Mirror Lake Inn Resort & Spa Courtesy of Mirror Lake Inn Resort & Spa

NEW YORK STATE FALL FOLIAGE 2020

BEST PLACES FOR A WEEKEND GETAWAY

By Patricia Canole

ome autumn, the Northeast transforms into a riot of red, orange, and yellow hues as the abundance of trees change colors and leaves blanket the ground. This makes for a time to explore the great outdoors. So popular is this annual pilgrimage to see the autumn foliage that it has its very own verb—leaf peep.

From short road trips in the Hudson Valley to longer weekend escapes to the Adirondacks and beyond, leaf-peeping opportunities abound around the state. It’s nice to take in those rich autumnal landscapes from the comfort of one of the best hotels for foliage views in the state. Here, our picks of what to see and do for fall foliage in the Empire State.

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ADIRONDACKS

Winding your way through scenic byways of the Adirondacks’ six million acres during the peak of leaf-peeping season offers breathtaking mountain views. One of the best ways to experience this majestic region’s stunning vistas is to take a spin in the mountains! A good introduction is a drive along The Whiteface Memorial Veteran’s Memorial Highway is a five-mile toll road with views of the Adirondack High Peaks, open through October 14th. After a day of exploration, stroll along cozy mountain villages.

There are several regions in this area.

Outdoor adventurers can hike, climb, mountain bike, and canoe amidst colorful fall foliage. Head to breathtaking Ausable Chasm, where naturally formed sandstone aging back 500 million years, creates a memorable backdrop for a fall excursion. Make sure to take a family float tour through the Grand Flume and Whirlpool basin. For hikers, the 46 High Peaks mountaintops will thrill at a 4,000-feet elevation, making this wilderness area one of the most popular in the Northeast during fall for leaf peepers in search of expansive scenery. For the family, head to The Adirondack Experience in Blue Mountain Lake, which provides a complete history and immersive activities of the region, from learning about the wildlife and viewing Native American art to writing on a slate tablet in a one-room schoolhouse and feeding trout.

Weekenders get a serious rush speeding down Gore Mountain or Whiteface Mountain, both skiing areas that offer downhill mountain biking in early fall. You’ll maneuver down maintained trails during peak foliage season. For those who don’t want to experience the twists and turns, both mountains offer scenic rides in gondolas—the Scenic Skyride at Gore and the Cloudsplitter Skyride at Whiteface—or on ski lifts weekends through mid-October as well. Info: visitadirondacks.com.

Here, two areas we highly recommend.

• Lake Placid Region Fall in Lake Placid is all about days bathed in the fiery glow of foliage: pumpkin orange, flaming red, and sunshiny yellow. Fall days spent here in the beautiful, fresh air, surrounded by glorious colors covering the mountains, are unlike anything else. Revel in the scents and sounds of forest trails, the sparkling shine of Mirror Lake, and a picnic-perfect park. Part of Lake Placid’s beauty is that you don’t have to go far to find fresh air, natural solitude, and opportunities to stretch your legs and feel great. This is the place to rejuvenate your body and mind amid the crisp crackle of falling leaves and golden light.

Loosen up because it’s time to kick your perfect fall day into high gear—literally. Visit the Olympic Museum, an homage to the Mirror Lake Suite Courtesy of Mirror Lake Inn Resort & Spa

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Lake Placid

1932 and 1980 Winter Olympics, both held in Lake Placid. Race like an athlete at the Lake Placid Bobsled Experience or take in panoramic views of the High Peaks at the top of the Jumping Complex.

Rent a mountain bike from High Peaks Cyclery and hit the local trails. They’ll suit you up with everything you need, and they can point you toward tons of beginner trails to explore. While the surrounding mountains lend themselves to epic riding, there are also plenty of wide, well-groomed trails with only moderate elevation change to be found. The Craig Wood Trails in Lake Placid or the Hardy Road Trails in nearby Wilmington are great places to start. As you gain speed peddling past the red, orange, and yellow leaves, the colors will become a beautiful blur blazing like fire in your peripheral vision. Enjoy the swish and crunch of fallen leaves on the trail as your tires roll through. It’s far from your basic fall experience, but it might just become one of your new favorites!

After an eventful but perfect fall day, you’re probably hungry.

Freshen up and hit Main Street Lake Placid for a very satisfying and delicious meal. From house-smoked barbecue to authentic Italian, casual Americana, and creatively crafted local cuisine, the chefs of Lake Placid put their all into making your dining experience as exceptional as the rest of your Adirondack experience. Info: lakeplacid.com.

Best Stay The Mirror Lake Inn Resort & Spa boosts your senses, providing an extraordinary experience for the body, mind, and palate. You’ll soon find that it treats your needs as unique and accommodates you in personalized ways.

Mirror Lake Inn’s track record of excellence includes the AAA Four-Diamond rating for more than two decades.

The beautifully appointed rooms and suites afford firstclass amenities and fabulous views with whirlpool baths and fireplaces. The inn offers the finest cuisine and impeccable service with Instagram-worthy sights at The View for its fine dining featuring creative comfort foods prepared with slow-cooking methods. The Cottage offers a cozy neighborhood-style bar, waterfront deck, and menu with pub-style favorites. The resort treats each guest’s needs as unique and accommodates them in personalized ways.

This attitude, along with gracious service and attention to detail, is at the inn’s heart. The concierge desk arranges all on and offsite activities, such as yoga, rainy day activities, world-class fly fishing, and customized guided outdoor adventures. Info: mirrorlakeinn.com.

• Lake George Region This town, the most populous and most commercial in the area, sits on a 32-mile jewel of a lake ringed by mountains with dozens of state-owned islands. Of historic interest is Fort William Henry, a reconstructed 235-year-old fort with displays of muskets, cannons, and other war relics.

No visit is complete without a sightseeing trip on Lake George and a dinner, jazz or moonlight cruise. For an eagle’s eye view of the lake, take Route 9 half a mile south to Prospect Mountain State Parkway. At the end of a 5-mile climb up the 2,100foot mountain is a view of the southern Adirondack Mountains and the pictureworthy upper Hudson Valley.

When the temperatures begin to dip, and the leaves begin to change, thirsty beer drinkers and lovers of German culture begin to search out Oktoberfest events.

Lively Oktoberfest celebrations can be found in October throughout the Lake George Area. From downtown block parties to local craft breweries, October in the Lake George Area is covered in beer.

Mont Calm Courtesy of The Inn at Erlowest

Inn at Erlowest Courtesy of The Inn at Erlowest

For Halloween enjoyment, head on over to Fright Fest, the scariest event in the Lake George area. Six Flags Great Escape & Hurricane Harbor’s annual event will have you shaking in your boots! Once the sun goes down, zombies and ghouls invade the park, and no place is safe from the scares. The fear factor is cranked up after 5 pm when frightfilled scare zones are located throughout the park, frightening shows last all evening, roaming hordes of terrifying creatures are set to scare around every turn. Info: visitlakegeorge.com.

Best Stay The Inn at Erlowest prides itself, as most historic inns do, on its civilized luxurious past. Antique furnishings and paint-thickened woods and bustling catering staff add a Downton Abbey-ish meme. Built in 1898, the inn offers stunning suites, exquisite dining, all overlooking the lake and mountains. The mansion includes three dining rooms and a fine dining restaurant. Every suite includes Frette robes, TVs with DVD players, and many other luxurious amenities. The names of the one-of-a-kind rooms are drawn from the 12-foot tall stained-glass window that welcomes all guests up to the inn’s main staircase. Info: theinnaterlowest.com.

COLUMBIA A visit to Columbia County can be as relaxing or stimulating as one desires. Miles of country roads take you through expansive breathtaking vistas where one can leave the city behind and embrace the countryside either by car or bike. There is culture, history, recreation, antiques, unique boutiques, farm markets, and apple orchards to high-flying adventure parks. Art lovers can enjoy galleries, studios, and an open-air sculpture garden showcasing artists’ works from around the world. A must-see is an architectural masterpiece, Olana State Historic Site. In the 1870s, Hudson River School artist Frederic Church built this 37-room Moorish-style castle atop a hill with panoramic valley and river vistas. Architect Calvert Vaux came up with the house’s design, to which the artist applied his eclectic touches. The interior is an extravaganza of tile and stone, carved screens, Persian rugs, and paintings, including some

by Church. About 4 miles south of Hudson, the house is open for guided tours, which run about 45 minutes; reservations are strongly suggested.

Olana State Historic Site ©Steve Turner for Columbia County Tourism

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Don’t miss Martin Van Buren National Historic Site, the home of the eighth president of the U.S. The mansion is also where Van Buren managed two presidential campaigns and entertained politicians and celebrities during the turbulent 1840s and 1850s. And for action-packed thrills, there’s Catamount Adventure Park. Here, you’ll find an aerial forest adventure with 2,000-foot zip line courses.

Naturally, this activity will build up an appetite for some delicious dining. Regional farms supply award-winning chefs with the freshest ingredients to create tantalizing dishes that make your taste buds dance. Stop by Chatham Brewing for some of the state’s finest selection of beers brewed in the British tradition—using the best hops and malts available. Or for a better sampling of the best Columbia County has to offer, travel the Scenic Sips Craft Beverage Tour, and savor the flavor of hand-crafted beers, spirits, wines, and ciders. Whether it be a casual cafe, vintage diner, fine dining restaurant, tasting room, or a fabulous cocktail lounge designed to delight the senses, Columbia County has them all. Take your pick! Info: columbiacountytourism.org.

Catamount Adventure Park Courtesy of Columbia County Tourism

The Maker Hotel Courtesy of The Maker Hotel

Best Stay Make your reservation at The Maker, an 11-room hotel consisting of a collection of renovated early-20thcentury buildings. It’s the culmination of a five-year labor of love by owners Lev Glazman and Alina Roytberg (who founded the skin-care line Fresh in 1991) and Damien Janowicz, their business partner. In 2016, the trio opened the beloved bakery and café Bartlett House, in the neighboring town of Ghent. With The Maker, the concept is rooted in the arts: the guest rooms celebrate cultural pursuits ranging from literature to architecture and gardening. The result is an eclectic mix that embodies the town’s quirky spirit. It’s also meant to be a meeting place for locals, with a restaurant, café, and lounge that spotlights the seasonal bounty produced by surrounding farms. Info: maker.com.

DUTCHESS Enjoying time outdoors is ideal in nearby Dutchess County. Where else can you enjoy nature’s bursts of color and take advantage of the gifts harvest season brings? Historic sites like Vanderbilt Mansion National Historic Site in Hyde Park and Staatsburgh State Historic Site in Staatsburg offer magnificent views inviting visitors to stroll their grounds or bring a picnic to enjoy while admiring the changing trees. Take in the foliage from an island on the Hudson after a short boat ride from Beacon to Pollepel, the home of Bannerman Castle (advanced reservation required, tours available through October).

For a vantage point like no other, the Walkway Over the Hudson in Poughkeepsie is one-ofa-kind. The longest, elevated pedestrian bridge in the world is a former railroad bridge built in 1888, now open to anyone to loves a walk or to bike. Enjoy a breathtaking perspective of the Hudson River valley. Panoramic views can also be seen atop the fire towers at Ferncliff Forest in Rhinebeck, Breakneck Ridge in Beacon, and Thompson Pond Preserve in Pine Plains.

Of course, there’s a bounty of other activities to discover in Dutchess. Apple orchards are plentiful.

Pick-your-own experiences include Fishkill Farms (advanced reservation required), Greig Farm, and Mead Orchards. If you’d rather stay on terra firma, shop the farmer’s markets and roadside stands. Info: dutchesstourism.com.

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Fishkill Farms Courtesy of Dutchess Tourism, Inc.

Mirbeau Inn & Spa Courtesy of Mirbeau Inn & Spa

Best Stay A short two hours from Manhattan by car in the heart of New York’s Hudson Valley, Mirbeau Inn & Spa Rhinebeck is located on nearly three secluded acres. The 50-room property is just a short jaunt from the specialty shops, flourishing food scene, and Rhinebeck›s art culture›s historic center. (For those who prefer to take the train, the property is just minutes from the Rhinecliff-Kingston station.) The property was designed to bring balance to modern living, with gracious accommodations, and a 12,000-square-foot spa (a highlight of the property). Guests will find a European-style resting area, aqua terrace with a thermal pool, eucalyptus-infused steam room, Himalayan salt saunas, and the latest in fitness equipment. At the signature Willow by Charlie Palmer, you’ll find cuisine sourced to represent the region’s agricultural heritage and showcases the team’s dedication to progressive American cuisine. Featuring local and seasonal produce from multi-generational farms, food artisans, and craft distillers, the restaurant is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Info: mirbeau.com. •

Magazzino Italian Art Courtesy of Putnam County NY

PUTNAM Nestled between the Hudson River and the Connecticut state line, Putnam County offers an abundance of adventures and experiences to suit every lifestyle. Putnam is a mighty treasure of crystal-clear lakes, well-maintained hiking trails, historic sites, art, and cultural venues, all surrounded by dining to fit every taste and palate. Putnam is just an hour away from Manhattan with five Metro-North stops, making day trips hassle-free and easy. Create a day trip or stay for a weekend; Putnam is the perfect place to relax and unwind.

Begin your trip at the beautifully restored Neoclassical mansion Boscobel. Built between 1804 and 1808, Boscobel was originally the dream house of Loyalists Elizabeth and States Dyckman. Boscobel’s interiors display one of the finest collections of New York furniture from the Federal period, and the grounds offer a magnificent view of the mighty Hudson River. A short 3 miles from Boscobel is Magazzino Italian Art. Meaning “warehouse” in Italian, Magazzino was co-founded by Nancy Olnick and Giorgio Spanu. The 20,000 square-foot museum, designed by Spanish architect Miguel Quismondo, opened its doors in 2017, creating a new cultural hub and community resource within the Hudson Valley. The nonprofit museum serves as an advocate for

Italian artists as it celebrates the range of their creative practices from Arte Povera to the present. A visit to Manitoga is next on the itinerary. Located in Garrison, New York, approximately one hour north of New York City, Manitoga is the former home and 75-acre woodland garden of American industrial designer Russel Wright (1904-1976). Manitoga is a National Historic Landmark, an Affiliate Site of the National Trust for Historic Preservation. It is one of the few 20th-century modern homes with original landscape open to the public. Head east on Route 301 and at your leisure, explore Stone Crop Gardens, Glynwood Farm, Fahnestock State Park, and Chuang Yen Monastery, which is home to the largest indoor statue of Buddha in the Western Hemisphere.

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Whether you seek the majestic beauty of the Hudson River or the rustic tranquility of farm life, it’s always the perfect time to explore the many farmer’s markets and dining establishments. Head to Florrie Kaye’s in Carmel, where you’ll be transported back in time to a place of elegance without the hustle and bustle of today. Enjoy Traditional Afternoon Tea or a bite of English Fare. The menu has something for everyone. Info: putnamcountyny.com.

Best Stay Putnam County’s newest boutique hotel is The Abbey Inn & Spa, located on top of the historic Fort Hill. With its 42 guest rooms, Mediterranean-styled restaurant, and spa, it’s a gem on the Hudson. The existing historic building was formerly the convent of the Episcopal Sisters of Saint Mary’s and repurposed with luxury accommodations. With a $22 million renovation budget, the design is contemporary with preserved granite and bricks from the former convent. The spa offers just four treatment rooms, thereby giving each guest a rejuvenating experience—good for the body and soul. Info: theabbeyinn.com.

Saratoga National Historical Park Courtesy of Saratoga Chamber of Commerce

The Abbey Inn & Spa Courtesy of The Abbey Inn & Spa

SARATOGA Family fun is closer than you think. You’ll find great outdoor spaces, parks, hiking, outdoor dining, one-of-a-kind boutiques and so much more in Saratoga County and, of course, vibrant fall foliage which will add color to all your adventures.

Saratoga’s three state parks and Saratoga National Historical Park offer beautiful scenery, plenty of trails and outdoor recreation opportunities while also providing visitors ample space for socially distanced activities. The national park is known as the turning point of the American Revolution. Visit the grounds where American heroes defeated the British. History comes alive through the park’s self-guided tour road, interpretive trails and majestic overlooks boasting vibrant colors of the season.

Another way to explore autumn is on the water, a guaranteed way to delight the senses. Enjoy kayaking, boating or even take a chartered cruise on Saratoga Lake. You may also want to boat or take a scenic drive around the Great Sacandaga Lake. The Hudson River, which flows along the northern border of Saratoga county, offers an unforgettable outdoor adventure. Visit Hudson Crossing Park to launch your kayak, enjoy nature trails or have a picnic while taking in the views.

In between activities, don’t forget fall is also a great time to visit the farmer’s markets or a u-pick farm for apples, pumpkins, and your favorite fall specialties. You can also taste a myriad of natural mineral springs dotted throughout Downtown Saratoga and the Saratoga Spa State Park, a unique experience you will only find here.

Whether you’re an avid outdoor enthusiast or you just want to relax and unplug, Saratoga is the place to be this fall. Enjoy award-winning restaurants, casual eateries, great coffee shops and cuisines from around the world. Outdoor dining is popular along Saratoga’s lovely treelined, downtown streets brimming with one-of-a-kind boutiques and galleries. Charming inns, bed and breakfasts and hotels make for a spectacular getaway anytime. Info: ilovesaratoga.us.

Best Stay Neo-classical Italianate architecture, and a grand staircase set the magical scene for a memorable stay at The Adelphi Hotel. Featuring eclectic, modern touches and unmatched hospitality, this boutique retreat affords a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

When you first walk through its impressive entrance, it’s easy to cast yourself back to the old-world grandeur of 1877. This was when New York’s elite would take the waters at the natural springs or enjoy a spot of people-watching at the horse races. Once the sun sets, it’s time to savor the finest modern and traditional cuisine at The Blue Hen or Salt & Char. Be sure to stop by Morrissey’s for an after-dinner drink.

Then it’s time to rest easy and relax in your elegant room, where a minimalist, modern aesthetic subtly enhances the original features. Info: adelphihotel.com.

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The Adelphi Hotel Courtesy of The Adelphi Hotel

ULSTER Ulster County is known as a four-season playground, but autumn is the best!

We dare you to find another place on Earth that so completely embodies the spirit of the season, from the harvest bounties of u-pick farms and the innovative flavors conjured by exceptional chefs, to haunted hayrides through the evocative landscape that inspired The Legend of Sleepy Hollow. The dense foliage that blankets the Mid-Hudson Valley and the adjacent Catskills is a wonder any time of the year, but fall is particularly special to witness a kaleidoscope of brilliant earth tones that emerge from the pines, oaks, maples, and hemlocks that dot the landscape along with shrubs of huckleberry and blueberry.

Hurds Family Farm Courtesy of Ulster County Tourism Dept.

While in Ulster, experience the best fly fishing in the U.S. Author Mark Twain and presidents Herbert Hoover and Jimmy Carter have spent many an afternoon angling for trout.

Ulster is home to family farms teeming with orchards and so much more. Pick your own produce straight from the source, find that perfect pumpkin for carving or baking, sip fresh apple cider, or take a spooky hayride with the little ones.

Nature lovers can take in the beauty with two scenic drives that are so beautiful they’ve been officially designated as such: the Catskill Mountains Scenic Byway and the Shawangunk Mountains Scenic Byway. Info: ulstercountyalive.com.

Mohonk Mountain House Courtesy of Mohonk Mountain House

Best Stay The castle-like Mohonk Mountain House resort in New Paltz is a leaf-peeper’s dream. Nestled in close to 1,200 acres and surrounded by the Shawangunk Mountains, one of New York State’s most scenic regions—especially this time of year. Touted as one of the best hotels in Northeast, Mohonk has hosted many notables since its founding in 1869, including John D. Rockefeller and presidents Teddy Roosevelt, Chester A. Arthur, and Bill Clinton. After taking in the gorgeous views, hit the hiking trails, kayak on the lake, go horseback riding, or even rock climbing. Kickback on the porch in a rocker and take in the natural beauty. Info: mohonk.com.

WESTCHESTER

Starting just 30 minutes north of Manhattan, set between the Hudson River and Long Island Sound, Westchester County has so much to offer families, couples, and solo travelers eager to enjoy the crisp fall weather and celebrate the season.

Travelers can explore the well-shaded climbs of Westchester, which feature some of the best hiking trails in the state. For example, Mianus River Gorge Preserve in Bedford is a trail that looms 40 feet above the Mianus River. Despite the exhilarating view, the hike is easy and perfect for the whole family. At Croton Gorge Park in Cortlandt, an easy two-mile hike includes the New Croton Dam’s gorgeous vistas and its autumnal color palette. Other nature preserves and parks for fall foliage include: including Greenburgh Nature Center, Edith G. Read Wildlife Sanctuary, Rockefeller State Park, Tarrytown RiverWalk, and more.

While there’s nothing like a brisk fall stroll, the County offers a next-level leaf-peeping opportunity: a helicopter tour soaring over the Hudson Valley. This bird’s-eye view of Westchester County’s colorful foliage is made during a Wings Air helicopter ride. Info: visitwestchesterny.com.

Best Stay Past white-steeple churches, meandering stone walls, and horse paddocks, the Bedford Post Inn approaches a weekend escape with equal parts romance and relaxation. Owned by Richard Gere, this Relais & Châteaux property feels intimate with just eight rooms in soothing palettes of white, black, cream, and taupe. King rooms boast fireplaces and cozy terraces, but we like the Queen Deluxe—where exposed beams frame the plush beds from the original 18th-century structure.

No matter which room you choose, oversized bathrooms have intricate marble-mosaic floors; walk-in, dual-head showers; and clawfoot tubs.

Stays include complimentary classes at the inn’s Yoga Loft, a soaring space with cathedral ceilings and sunlight pouring through glass-paned French doors. After, consider an in-room massage or grab a map and a bike from the inn to explore nearby Ward Pound Ridge Reservation’s 4,300 acres. At 5 pm, complimentary wine and charcuterie are served in the cozy, book-lined library. Then, proceed downstairs to Bedford Post’s Italian farmhouse restaurant, which draws well-heeled locals seeking supple, fresh pasta, and full-bodied red wines from the cellar. (If the weather allows, take a nightcap outside to the cozy stone firepit.) The next morning, treat yourselves to a decadent brunch of caramel-appletopped Dutch pancakes at The Barn. Info: bedfordinnpost.com. •

Bedford Post Inn Courtesy of Bedford Post Inn

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TRAVEL

DAY TRIPPING ON LONG ISLAND CASTLES, CHATEAUX & CHARM

By Irvina Lew

e each seek our own ways to thrive during these stay-at-home months; what’s kept my spirit soaring has been walking paths, usually with waterfront views and often on the grand estates that stud Long Island’s northern and southern shorelines. Like chateaux along the Loire, their sheer beauty, permanency, and history delight me as much as the actual landscape. These few destinations showcase varied architectural styles and are super-easy-to-access, by car or train and taxi.

SANDS POINT PRESERVE The one-lane bridge leads to 216 acres with six marked trails (leashed dogs welcome), woods and fields, rose gardens and a pond, a Great Lawn, and a pedestrian-only road leading down to Hempstead House Beach (closed), but with incredible expansive views of the Long Island Sound. There are picnic and checker tables, benches, and a playground, and four—currently closed—spectacular structures. Financier Howard Gould constructed the massive, limestone 100,000 square foot Gould Castle around 1900, and modeled it after Ireland’s Kilkenny Castle. (Restrooms are open, here.) His wife didn’t like it, so he built the 40-room Hempstead House, at half the size, though the first and second floors measure 1.5 acres! (It’s an event space, now.) In 1917, mining tycoon Daniel Guggenheim bought the property; subsequently, he gave 90 acres of it to his son, Harry, who built Falaise, a French Norman waterfront mansion, where he and his third wife, Newsday founder Alicia Patterson, lived. Daniel’s widow, Florence, downsized to Mille Fleurs; she offered British refugee children the use of Hempstead House and donated 162 acres to the Institute of Aeronautical Sciences. In 1971, Nassau County acquired 127 acres of the original estate, plus the 90-acre parcel that Harry bequeathed, and established the non-profit Sands Point Preserve.

Getting there: Although I prefer driving the prettier parkways—Grand Central Parkway to Northern State, Southern State, Sagtikos, and/or Hecksher State Parkways, the most direct route to the Sands Point Preserve is Long Island Expressway, Exit 36 North. Another option is LIRR to Port Washington, plus taxi or bus N23. Searingtown Road leads north—with name changes—until you reach Sands Point Preserve. Info: sandspointpreserveconservancy.org.

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Sands Point Preserve

OHEKA CASTLE A century ago, Otto Hermann Kahn built the country’s second-largest home on 443-acres on the island’s highest plot overlooking Cold Spring Harbor. He hired the Olmsted Brothers of Central Park fame to design his formal garden, eight reflecting pools, and three fountains. After 1934, when Kahn passed, the property had various uses and was ultimately abandoned. In 1984, developer Gary Melius purchased the castle and 23 surrounding acres; he’s devoted years and $40 million to restore the Gold Coast manse’s original opulence. Listed on the National Registry of Historic Places, it’s also affiliated with Historic Hotels of America. Its OHK bar and restaurant are open—indoors and out—though mansion tours are currently suspended.

Getting There: If a drink, meal or overnight tempts you, drive east to Oheka Castle by taking the Northern State Parkway to Exit 39, Round Swamp Road. Or ride in comfort via LIRR to Cold Spring Harbor. Info: oheka.com.

Crab Cake

SUFFOLK COUNTY VANDERBILT MUSEUM At The Suffolk County Vanderbilt Museum, the 43-acre grounds house a museum, a planetarium, a seaplane hangar, and Eagle’s Nest, William K. Vanderbilt II’s Spanish Revival-style, 24-room mansion, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places but not currently open. (Its exterior iron grillwork is worth admiring.) The museum galleries showcase the collection of fish and marine life that Willie K., as he was called, amassed. He opened The Hall of Fishes to the public, in 1922, and arranged for artisans from the American Museum of Natural History to create the nine wildanimal and marine-life dioramas. (Open noon to 5 pm on Tuesdays, Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays; the planetarium is not.) Willie K. was also a pioneer race car driver who built Vanderbilt Motor Parkway, a prototype for a toll road, for his races.

Getting there: Centerport, where William K. Vanderbilt II created Eagle’s Nest, is just a few miles east of Oheka Castle on the Northern State Parkway, Exit 42 North. Or take the LIRR to Huntington. Info: vanderiltmuseum.org. •

NEW DINING EXPERIENCES

By Jill Parrish Make Long Island’s South Fork your final destination for some adventurous dining options. Usually, the high season runs through Labor Day; however, it’s proving to be much different in 2020. Here are several recently opened restaurants providing choice menus year-round.

NAIA Meaning Sea Nymph in Greek, this new favorite offers a one-of-a-kind farm-to-table dining experience in a European beach-chic setting at the Capri Hotel in Southampton. Enjoy international dishes and craft cocktails as well as their bottomless brunch daily and get mesmerized by special sounds brought to you by their resident DJ and classical violinist Bud Cahill, who plays on Saturdays and Sundays. Info: naiahamptons.com.

CALISSA Water Mill is becoming the hot spot for delicious offerings like Calissa. Now in its third year, diners enjoy authentic seafood and Greek dishes.

The restaurant, which boasts an award-winning wine selection, currently offers outdoor seating for 100 weather permitting and indoor dining for up to 65. Enjoy the new on-site Bazaar complete with Caravana Pop Up Shop direct from Tulum, the Farmers Market with Cascun Farms, and Jimmy’s Food Truck serving up gyros, salads, and even more entertaining fun for the family. The outdoor Bazaar ends on Halloween. Info: calissahamptons.com.

TRAVEL

MADISON BEACH HOTEL PEACEFUL DAYS ON CONNECTICUT’S SCENIC SHORE

By Jeff & Stephanie Sylva

re you searching for a weekend getaway without the crowds? Then consider the Connecticut shoreline with a stay at The Madison Beach Hotel. The inn, a AAA Four Diamond-rated hotel, is part of the Curio Collection by Hilton. It is Connecticut’s only beachfront boutique resort and spa.

HOTEL HISTORY The original Madison Beach Hotel was built in the early 1800’s as a hostel for shipbuilders. West Wharf Beach, site of the hotel, was one of two shipyards in Madison. The hotel underwent a variety of alterations and changes through the years and was completely renovated in 1982. Many items from the original hotel were utilized in the new hotel to keep the spirit and history alive.

In October 2006, the Duques family, longtime residents of Madison, purchased the hotel and restaurant. Their goal is to maintain the traditional beachfront atmosphere while adding updated amenities.

CLASSIC NEW ENGLAND The hotel’s 32 rooms feature classic décor, perfect for couples on a romantic getaway. All rooms have waterfront views of the Long Island Sound and include private furnished patios and Italian marble bathrooms. The property is also pet friendly. The resort features a full-service spa, The Sounds of the Sea Spa, which offers a full selection of services and treatments. There is a well-equipped, 24-hour fitness center, a yoga studio, and bike rentals. Patrons of the hotel are welcome at the nearby Madison Golf Club.

The resort’s private beach is attended by a staff who provide complimentary towels, lounges, and umbrellas. Weather permitting, the beach remains open throughout the fall. Food and beverage service, open-air concerts and starlit movies are provided during the summer months.

As the weather cools, Happy Hour heats up, as guests gather around the blazing firepit in preparation for “Sunset on the Wharf.” Sunsets at Madison Beach are a splendid display of color. There is live entertainment on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Madison Beach is planning to continue their “Unplugged Series” of indoor music concerts twice a month as soon as restrictions on indoor entertainment are lifted.

34 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | OCTOBER 2020

DINING WITH A VIEW Madison Beach offers several dining options. The Wharf— the hotel’s signature restaurant—offers tablecloth dining and a seasonal menu featuring local ingredients and organic produce. The MBH Tuna Tartare is an appetizer that has been on the menu since 2012. Another can’t-miss starter is the Bacon Wrapped Scallops. For an entrée the Herb Crusted Twin Rack of Lamb with red wine reduction is a great choice. Seafood lovers can choose from the Grilled Salmon with pesto and balsamic reduction, a New England Baked Scrod with breadcrumbs and white wine, or the Grilled Swordfish with mango, pineapple, cucumber, and lime salsa.

Lighter fare includes a killer butter-poached Hot Lobster Roll and a Pan Seared Scrod Sandwich. Enjoy these either in the dining room or in the alfresco casualness of The Porch.

Featuring stone-top tables and a raw bar, The Porch serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. It is heated for a year-round al fresco experience. The Wharf Bar serves up a variety of craft beers on tap and a full selection of spirits. Enjoy picturesque views of Long Island Sound from all these dining venues.

Make it a special occasion with a wine and food tasting at the Big Table in the Wine Room, a high-top communal dining space for larger gatherings. Or reserve The Nook, which is tucked into a semi-private area, perfect for six guests.

You might also consider The Wharf ’s Sunday Brunch. Voted Best Brunch by Connecticut Magazine, the buffet features a variety of menu specialties, including a raw bar, made-to-order omelets, carving station, salads, entrées, and sides, as well as an array of beautiful and tempting desserts.

For more information on Madison Beach Hotel, visit madisonbeachhotel.com. •

BEYOND MADISON BEACH Active people will love walking, biking, kayaking, fishing, golfing, and bird watching. Take a bike ride along Middle Beach Road and admire many of Madison’s well-kept beachfront homes. Proceed to the Shoreline Greenway Trail and on to Hammonasset Beach State Park. Explore the Park’s numerous hiking and biking paths, miles of shoreline, and Meigs Point Nature Center.

Downtown Madison is a quaint New England village featuring various boutiques, restaurants, shops, the world-famous R.J. Julia Booksellers, and an old-fashioned movie theater. Visit Chamard Vineyards in nearby Clinton and taste their Estate wines and relish some French-inspired dishes from The Bistro. The beautiful winery grounds and hospitable tasting room provide a perfect atmosphere to relax and partake some good wine and delicious food. Be sure to try the luscious Lobster Bisque and the gourmet Four Mile River Farm Burger. Info: chamard.com.

Celebrate the beauty of nature at Lavender Pond Farm, just a short drive from Madison Beach in Killingworth. According to the farm’s owners, Lavender Pond Farm “was born with the simple purpose of doing our small part to help make the world a more beautiful place.” With over 10,000 lavender plants on the sprawling 25-acre property, it is a relaxing and inviting oasis for the body and soul. Info: lavenderpondfarm.com.

A popular spot in neighboring Guilford is Bishop’s Orchards. Since 1871, six generations of Bishops have been providing shoppers quality farm products and baked goods. Do-it-yourselfers will love Bishop’s Pick Your Own fruits. Strawberries, peaches, blueberries, apples, pears, raspberries, and pumpkins are available for picking.

Bishop’s Orchards also produces their own fruit wines. Stop by the tasting room for a sample. Info: bishopsorchard.com.

Note: Some hotel and area attractions’ services may not be available or limited during the Covid-19 pandemic. Check the websites for the latest information.

OCTOBER 2020 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 35

TRAVEL

TRIPLE TREAT

PLAN NOW, TRAVEL LATER TO THE U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS

By Cecilia Deignan

ho isn’t dreaming of getting away? Perhaps hiking in a rainforest, lounging on a sandy beach, or participating in a rum tasting. But the question remains: Should you travel? Of course, it’s possible with more destinations, especially in the Caribbean, open and welcoming visitors. However, it will be different since restrictions of one sort or another will be in effect. It’s essential to take not only your safety into consideration but the safety of others. Americans need to follow the State Department and CDC’s advice since protocols and information change so rapidly.

Without question, the coronavirus is changing everything about how we live. But travel won’t end. A journey is what brings our world together; it is how we learn about other cultures and is an important part of people’s lives.

St. Thomas

The U.S. Virgin Islands may be a perfect choice. You get three islands to explore, and there’s no passport required for American citizens. St. Thomas and St. John are neighbors, only four miles apart, and traveling between the two for the ST. THOMAS day or an afternoon is a cinch. St. Croix is farther afield, but still within reach by seaplane or ferry. Whether you choose one, two, or all three, you won’t be Duty-free shopping comes to mind when people think of St. Thomas. The busy streets and lanes of Charlotte disappointed. They’re beautiful, fun, and America’s paradise.

Amalie are chock-a-block with jewelry shops, designer boutiques, liquor merchants, and souvenir stalls. And when cruise ships once again dock in this popular port, the streets will team with tourists looking to take advantage of the daily specials. Nevertheless, St. Thomas offers a lot more than shopping. Magens Bay, for instance, is one of the world’s prettiest beaches.

Located on the north shore, directly opposite Charlotte Amalie, Magens Bay can get crowded at times. Head to the western end, where the snorkeling is best. When you come up for air, you’ll marvel at the extraordinary view of the glistening beach, turquoise water, perhaps a sailboat or two, and bright green peaks enveloping the bay. When evening falls on St. Thomas, it’s not the end of the day but rather the beginning of the night, and you’ll want to try some of the truly exceptional restaurants on the island. Old Stone Farmhouse, at Mahogany Run, is one of the most beautiful spots for dinner. Soft candlelight perfectly balances the massive stone walls and archways in this 200-year-old plantation house. And the chef ’s international cuisine is spectacular.

WHERE TO STAY

Ritz-Carlton, St. Thomas

36 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | OCTOBER 2020

Ritz-Carlton, St. Thomas Built in the style of a Venetian palace, the Ritz-Carlton treats guests like royalty. Sophisticated guest rooms features balconies which peek out over beautiful gardens, an infinityedge pool, the beach, and the sea beyond. Additionally, there’s Internet, marble bathrooms with deep soaking tubs, and lots more. The spa, salon, and fitness center will soothe body and soul; the Ritz Kids program packs in a full day of activities for kids, including collecting seashells and feeding iguanas. A 54-foot catamaran is available for a day or sunset sail. Info: ritzcarlton.com.

ST. JOHN Columbus sighted St. John over 500 years ago, but it was Laurence Rockefeller who put it on the map. He purchased most of the island in the 1950s and then turned over the bulk of it to the federal government for a national park. About two-thirds of St. John, including 5,600 underwater acres, is now preserved as Virgin Islands National Park.

Cruz Bay, the main town, has a colorful waterfront and narrow streets lined with interesting shops and some excellent restaurants. Nearby, Mongoose Junction is a maze of stone buildings housing upscale shops and boutiques that feature resort wear, jewelry, handcrafts, and more.

Be sure to visit the National Park Visitors Center, adjacent to the Cruz Bay wharf, to learn about outdoor activities and hiking adventures in the park. For example, Trunk Bay has an underwater snorkel trail with plaques that identify the corals and fish. You’ll also want to explore some of the island’s 30 fabulous beaches, such as Cinnamon Bay, Hawksnest Bay, and secluded Honeymoon Beach. Eco-adventure is the primary appeal of St. John, but don’t let that fool you. Cruz Bay offers after-dark entertainment.

Westin St. John Resort & Villas

WHERE TO STAY Westin St. John Resort & Villas The island’s largest resort offers a nice prime beachfront location along with plenty of activities to keep family members busy. Need to explore: rent a car to see nature upclose and the area’s beautiful beaches. Spread over more than 40 acres and adjacent to Great Cruz Bay, the resort is lush with planted gardens which add to the feel of being in the tropics. White sandy beachees beckon sun worshippers and a large pool will satisfy loungers. Info: marriott.com.

ST. CROIX

U.S. Virgin Islands

Better known as the Big Island, St. Croix is the largest of the U.S. Virgin Islands with an intoxicating laid-back feel you’ll soon get accustomed to. Cruzan life focused on agriculture through the 1960s, when vacationers discovered the islands beautiful beaches and reefs teeming with sea life. Buck Island Reef National Monument, off St. Croix’s northeastern coast, includes a 700-acre marine garden with an underwater snorkel trail. Some 200 sugar plantations once covered St. Croix, and ruins of sugar mills still dot the landscape.

To get a grasp of plantation life, visit Whim Plantation, near Frederiksted. Its Great House has period furnishings, including original furniture handmade by slaves. Be sure to try a johnnycake, a local specialty still prepared in the kitchen. Frederiksted, on the islands western end, is the smaller of St. Croix’s two towns and its main port. Historic Fort Frederik has protected the waterfront since the 1750s. Lining the narrow streets nearby, Victorianstyle, gingerbread-bedecked buildings house boutiques catering primarily to cruise-ship passengers. Christiansted, on the northeast coast, is St. Croix’s commercial center and offers the best shopping opportunities. Both towns have rich histories, and exploring on foot will reveal historic landmarks and unique colonial architecture. A self-guided Heritage Trail traverses the entire island, linking the two towns and tracing St. Croix’s history, culture, and environment.

WHERE TO STAY The Buccaneer Hotel Aimed at travelers who want everything at their fingertips, The Buccaneer offers gorgeous beaches, pools, and plenty of sports facilities. The palm-treelined main drive is welcoming and leads to the large, pink main building atop a hill. The rest of the resort sits on a former 300-acre former sugar plantation, where guest quarters are scattered about the manicured lawns. Accommodations are spacious and styled with a tropical theme and include local art. Go ahead and splurge for a Beachside Doubloon room just steps from the sand. There are camp activities for kids ages 4 to 12. Info: thebuccaneer.com.

For more information on the U.S. Virgin Islands, go to visitusvi.com. •

The Buccaneer Hotel

OCTOBER 2020 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 37

REAL ESTATE & YOUR HOME

AROUND TOWN

RUSTIC, CLASSIC, MODERN. IT’S ALL HERE IN NYC

By AP Connolly

A WILLIAMSBURG OASIS

CAREFREE LIVING

49 South 1st Street City meets country oasis in this rarely available renovated three bedroom-three full bath duplex in a townhouse, located in the Williamsburg waterfront heart.

Floor features include a built-in TV making for the ultimate entertaining or relaxation oasis as well as a full bath and a high-tech heating and AC system. The full bath with a shower that has a door to the outside creates the ultimate indoor/outdoor experience. There is a split system AC zoned by room throughout the house.

Two French doors lead to your secret garden. Ultimate privacy is created by the cascading walls of ivy surrounding the property. Tucked away in the garden’s rear is a free-standing artist studio designed in traditional tea house style with sliding screen walls.

Perfectly situated in Williamsburg, Brooklyn, it’s mere minutes on the nearby subway to Union Square or SoHo. The duplex has a private entrance on the garden floor that opens into a loft-like space with exposed wood beam ceilings, a wood-burning fireplace, wide plank floors, exposed brick, and custom cabinetry throughout. The dining area flows into the open chef ’s kitchen with a Viking stove, Bosch dishwasher, Shaw’s English farmhouse sink, and double door fridge.

Light pours in thru the custom extra-wide French window, overlooking the lush garden.

Connected to the pre-fab house is a custom red brick outdoor fireplace and grill. The parlor floor has a sunfilled large master bedroom with a soaking tub at the foot of the bed.

An en-suite full windowed master bathroom with an oversize shower is complete with top of the line fixtures.

His and her walk-in closets lead to a light and airy 2nd bedroom or office.

A large finished full basement with private laundry and ample storage are included with this space. Info: Listing $6,995 per month; contact Nadine Adamson or Kelsey Hall.

38 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | OCTOBER 2020

RARE & RENOVATED CLASSIC STUNNER 169 East 69th Street, #11D A desirable home with room to spare. Situated between Third and Lexington Avenues, East 69th is one of the most pleasant Upper East Side blocks. This full-service 20- story boutique cooperative was built in 1961 and features 60 apartments.

This gut-renovated six-room home is ready for move-in!

Exposures to the south, west, and north allow maximum light throughout the apartment. The entry foyer provides a sense of the expanse, with the living and dining rooms all opening to one another.

LUXURIOUS TOUCHES The kitchen has been fully renovated, with granite counters, tile backsplash, custom wood cabinetry, panel-front refrigerator, stainless steel appliances, picture windows, washer/dryer, and service door. The public and private spaces are separated by an efficient closet-lined hallway, while the split bedroom layout provides privacy. Both bedrooms enjoy double exposures and walk-in closets; the master bedroom features a windowed en-suite floor-toceiling honey onyx marble bath. The windowed hallway bath with custom tile services the secondary bedroom.

There are thru-wall HVAC, wired speakers to a central AV hub, and new windows throughout.

Building amenities include a live-in superintendent, central laundry room, playroom, and new fitness center.

Extraordinary convenience to transportation, restaurants, shopping, and Central Park. Info: Listing is $2,495M; contact Scott Harris and Chloe Chasanoff.

THE ONE YOU’VE BEEN WAITING FOR… 50 East 89th Street, #10E Welcome home to this brilliantly designed and meticulously renovated corner five-room, two-bedroom, two-bath home. This mint condition home is truly move-in ready.

Enter through a gracious foyer equipped with multiple built-out closets to accommodate all your storage needs. As you continue through the entry gallery, you are greeted with incredible southern sunlight and a double exposure facing south and east. The open living room, dining room, and chef ’s kitchen boast both style and functionality. The windowed kitchen has been outfitted with top of the line appliances and a marble island with a breakfast bar for additional seating. It is rare to find a kitchen of this size, quality, and layout.

Off the living room, step outside onto your private balcony overlooking 88th Street, which is drenched in direct sunlight throughout the day.

The floorplan features split bedrooms offering privacy to both the master suite and second bedroom. Featuring southern exposures, home office, walk-in closet, en-suite bath, and custom built-ins throughout, this is a true master suite like you would find in a home.

50 East 89th Street is a full-service luxury cooperative located in the heart of Carnegie Hill, just one block from Central Park and surrounded by some of the city’s best museums, schools, restaurants, and shops. The building features a gracious foyer equipped with fulltime doorman and concierge. A private driveway and onsite garage offer a luxury and convenience that few other buildings in the area can offer. Other amenities include a fitness center, laundry room, and bike storage. Pets are welcome. Info: Listing is $1.995M; contact Nadia Rizk and Joanne Greene.

For more information on these and other properties from Brown Harris Stevens, visit them at bhsusa.com. • OCTOBER 2020 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 39

Esther Reizes-Lowenbein

718.249.5141 EstyReizes@gmail.com RocklandRE.com Residential Realtor in Rockland County Commercial Realtor Investment Manager

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REAL ESTATE & YOUR HOME

632 Broadway

RENAISSANCE PROPERTIES AHEAD OF THE TIMES

By Peter Elston

ew York commercial landlords are seizing a unique opportunity to make a difference. By 2024, most buildings larger than 25,000 square feet—some 50,000 buildings across the city—will need to drastically cut emissions to comply with NYC’s building emissions law, Local Law 97 of 2019. By 2050, those caps on carbon emissions will force building owners to reduce emissions by 80 percent.

That’s a tall order, especially during a global pandemic that has been felt acutely by commercial building owners. But with most workers having yet to return to the office, some landlords are using this unprecedented moment to start working on their buildings, intending to meet these stringent new standards years ahead of schedule.

OCTOBER 2020 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 41

LEADING THE CHARGE “The question is how do we get people to invest now, in the middle of a crisis, in sustainable practices,” said Bradley Fishel, Vice President of Renaissance Properties and Chairman of the Board NoHo Business Improvement District. “The new climate act for New York City means that building owners are going to have to meet sustainability standards in the coming years anyway. So, we are pressuring buildings owners in the NoHo BID to meet those 2024 standards before any other neighborhood in Manhattan.”

Renaissance Properties—whose portfolio includes 632 Broadway, 627 Broadway, and 264 West 40th Street—has already made the city’s recommended changes as of two years ago, Fishel said. Another of their buildings, 62 West 45th Street, is currently being transitioned to the Climate Act’s requirements.

For instance, at 632 Broadway—a landmarked Classical Revival mercantile building designed by Robert Maynicke and built in 1897—this family company led by President Kenneth Fishel replaced all lights with LEDs, switched to solar energy utility credits, installed touchless faucets and touchless light switches, updated all HVAC units to VRF systems, and replaced all windows and converted the buildings from heating oil to natural gas. They also added the Merv 13 air filtration to the building in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Building owners stand to save a ton of money by making these changes now,” said Fishel. “Not only because of vacancies and the fact that you are bothering fewer people when you make these retrofits, but because it is cheaper. We see up to 30 percent discounts because of COVID. If you wait, those prices are going to go up.”

627 Broadway

42 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | OCTOBER 2020

264 West 40th

SAVING THE EARTH While the NoHo BID cannot force building owners to get on board with their sustainability campaign, Bradley said that it could apply pressure, recommend solutions, and educate. “Once you get someone’s attention and show them the information, the numbers speak for themselves,” he explained. “If you are a long-term owner like we are, these changes pay dividends. You are saving money and the earth.”

With an eye towards distressed assets, Renaissance specializes in value-add investments focusing on Prewar Prime Properties. From commercial and retail building ownership to leasing, management, and construction, the Renaissance has built its reputation on its people’s superior capabilities and efficiency, its most important resource. With an emphasis on quality and attention to detail, Renaissance brings a high level of comfort and modern technology, including the most elegant build-outs and the fastest services to all its treasured tenants.

For more information on Renaissance Properties, visit renaissancepropertiesny.com. •

Landscape That Inspired World Renowned Artist Andrew Wyeth

Gorgeous French Chateau Surrounded by Conservancy 1063 Wylie Terrace Road, West Chester, PA 19382 - $1,3oo,ooo

Fabulous French Country Chateau in Chadds Ford with vistas that inspired Andrew Wyeth, who painted only a mile away, surrounded by over a hundred acres of the Brandywine Conservancy that will protect and preserve the landscape in perpetuity. A meandering stream leading to Brandywine Creek and stand of majestic trees in this rolling landscape is enhanced by the home’s perfectly manicured landscaping and gardens, recently renovated deck, and a beautiful pool and spa. Situated on over 2 acres in this breathtaking countryside, the home will forever enjoy the views and stately magnificence of the conservancy. This home lives up to its setting.

Cheryl Newton rs306671 Realtor 431 W. Lancaster Ave. Devon, PA 19333 610-564-1144 cheryl.newton@foxroach.com

cherylnewton.foxroach.com

REAL ESTATE & YOUR HOME

FINANCIAL FREEDOM INVESTING IN REAL ESTATE MAY BE THE ANSWER

By Esther Reizes-Lowenbein

hat does financial freedom mean to you?

The most common response I received from asking some of my clients is having the stability, flexibility, and ability to do what you want with your finances on your own schedule.

Several stated that it means to be debt-free, paying off tuition, or having enough money for a rainy day.

Most said that achieving financial freedom would allow them to spend less time working and more time on their hobbies, meaningful causes, and family.

That begs the question—how does one achieve financial freedom? I interviewed several financial planners and wealth managers to hear what advice they offer their clients to achieve financial freedom. Every client is advised to speak to a financial advisor to determine what strategy to take.

Whether one is planning for retirement, earning residual/passive income, or saving up for anything, one needs an investment strategy that fits their budget and needs.

STABLE & LESS VOLATILE

While many recommended stocks and options, real estate investments were offered as a safer, more tangible option. Real estate is more stable and less volatile than the stock market.

It provides diversification; one can be invested in several properties at once. Real estate investors can leverage their money, take control over income by managing properties, and reap the advantages of tax benefits.

A good example is Ariel Serber, who offers financial peace of mind to his clients, recommends real estate as the value can appreciate, obviously in the right circumstances. Yaakov Berman, Financial Services Professional, cautions investors to do proper due diligence on any investment they are going into, have a good safety net, and use excess money only.

Adam Doran, an advisor at Prevail Innovative Wealth Strategies, believes that owning real estate is the key component of wealth-building. It is the only asset that one can purchase at a discount, take regular tax deductions on, enjoy passive income from (offset by tax deductions), enjoy appreciation from, sell at a profit, and roll the tax deferments into the next purchase. Adam explains that the key to real estate is creating a truly passive income by leveraging a team’s skills. Many people set themselves up for failure with real estate by trying to do everything themselves. Unless one is an expert, they should lean on the power of a team of specialists to trust and manage the details. The investor’s job should include performing due diligence, analyzing numbers, and producing the capital to purchase the investment.

As a Licensed Real Estate Salesperson and a serial networker, I work carefully to search for the right investment based on each client’s criteria. I work diligently to assist clients and present deals in various asset classes, ranging from multifamily, office space, industrial, hospitality to retail properties. Through my real estate networking abilities and attention to detail, I make meaningful and effective connections between investors and the appropriate properties.

44 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | OCTOBER 2020

GROW & MULTIPLY

Investing in real estate is a supercharged way to grow and multiply your wealth! Yet, there are some things to consider when it comes to real estate and its risks. Investing requires a lot of research. Profits and results may take time. Remember, real estate is not easily liquidated; if one is in a bind, they cannot immediately take out cash.

There are several forms of funding a commercial real estate investment.

It is helpful to start exploring different options early on in one’s search for an investment property. There are three basic types of loans: traditional, government-backed Small Business Administration (SBA), and private. It is important to note the duration of the loan, the interest rate, the ability to qualify, and the time it will take to obtain the loan.

A Senior Mortgage Broker at Meridian Capital Group notes the importance of consulting with a mortgage broker to obtain the best financing for one’s investment. He says this rings true now more than ever, with the COVID-19 pandemic. During these unprecedented times, lenders are constantly changing commercial class assets they are funding. A large company, such as Meridian Capital Group that finances over 40 billion dollars a year, stays up to date on a minute-tominute basis and is aware of changes as they happen. They can often foresee what change will take place, via speaking to the lenders and speaking to people on the board. A mortgage broker with close insight into the market can save the investor a lot of money and time, often being a deal-maker or deal-breaker.

Brian Briscoe, host of Diary of an Apartment Investor podcast, relates his reason for embarking on his investment journey to be financially free. He began by investing in single-family homes in 2007 and switched to apartments in 2018. Together with his partners at Four Oaks Capital, they have purchased 168 units, with 249 more under contract. This passive income will enable him to spend more time with his family during the holidays, birthdays, anniversaries, and summer vacations. He notes, “Real estate investing allows me to control my time, be where I want to be, and have the resources to help others.”

Esther Reizes-Lowenbein is a Licensed Real Estate Salesperson at eXp Realty. For more information, contact her at estyreizes@gmail.com. •

Fort Lauderdale, Florida Luxury L’Hermitage Condos

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HEALTH & WELLNESS

DETOX DONE RIGHT

LOSE WEIGHT AND RE-BOOT DURING COVID-19

By Melanie Carden

mmunity is another word for resilience, and Dr. Roni DeLuz R.N., ND, Ph.D., has it—in abundance.

Her bestselling book 21 Pounds in 21 Days: The Martha’s Vineyard Diet Detox remains at the top of the charts, an affordable bestseller among the top diet and wellness downloads on Amazon, consistent in its popularity as it does get results. Dr. Roni’s journey toward holistic health is peppered with the very wisdom we need to navigate the emotional and physical turmoil associated with COVID-19. Top-of-mind for many of us is the health issue referred to as Quarantine-15—weight gain associated with the pandemic.

We’ve gained weight and lost strength—not just the power of muscles but the strength of a powerful immune system that could help protect us as we face the potential threat of a second wave of COVID-19. The time to detox and re-boot our system is now. The protocol outlined in Dr. Roni’s book, kits, and at-home COVID-response service, H.E.A.L.E.D. at Home, uses fresh greens, berries, and herbs— foods dense in phytonutrients and micro-nutrients—often in soup, juice, and protein shake form. Her diet supports clients from CEOs to celebrities, who operate in high-stress environments and often complain of exhaustion. She quickly realized that most patients also experience increased stamina and significant weight loss—thus the name 21 pounds in 21 days.

The regimen was designed to clear the body of harmful toxins that may contribute to many health-related issues. Dr. Roni emphasizes that the easy-to-make smoothies release toxins from your body to increase vitality, health, and energy. The fresh purees—in small quantities throughout the day—allow for easy nutrient absorption. She says this portion-control method fast tracks healing, reduces inflammation, improves the immune system, and stimulates rapid weight loss.

REDUCE INFLAMMATION Scientists continue to study the COVID-19, but most agree—a healthy immune system is better than one that is compromised. People with diseases that are characterized by systemic inflammation, such as cardiovascular disease, and obesity, are generally cautioned of potentially higher risk. But everyone can benefit by reducing inflammation and improving their immune system.

Dr. Roni began her nursing career at Yale-New Haven Hospital, but it was her personal experience of fibromyalgia that prompted her to transition to holistic care. The condition was largely unknown at the time, and she experienced firsthand the exhaustion of a compromised immune system. Through holistic treatment, she recovered and opened her wellness retreat on Martha’s Vineyard—offering a restorative seaside setting and personalized wellness detox therapy.

As her client list grew to include Steve Harvey, Robin Quivers, Wendy Williams, and many others, she also partnered with James Hester, a former record company executive. He struggled for years with his weight until he lost 30 pounds on Dr. Roni’s program. Crediting her with turning his life around, they collaborated, penning the bestseller, 21 Pounds in 21 Days: The Martha’s Vineyard Diet Detox, which landed on The New York Times bestseller list for 13 weeks. Authoring this book, she says, has allowed her to reach everyone—wherever they may be. And now, during this pandemic, many find themselves at home, looking to re-boot their immune systems and lose the weight gained during this period of inactivity and uncertainty.

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RESTORE IMMUNITY

LOWER INFLAMMATION

Dr. Roni didn’t set out to create a diet. She was originally leery of including the word in the book title. But through discussions with her support network, she shifted her mindset. The word diet connected with readers and has empowered her to catalyze thousands of wellness journeys. In addition to her books, Dr. Roni’s brand includes the Martha’s Vineyard Wellness Retreat, a walk-in therapy center featuring natural products, and online membership access to her channel and recipes. As both an entrepreneur and healer, she confides, “My life has never been the same since the book.” It’s led to helping a larger client-base restore their immune systems and improve life quality.

She offers services for men and women of all ages and is grateful that she has been able to help people during the pandemic through her newly launched H.E.A.L.E.D. at Home (Health, Education, Alternative, Love, Essential, Detoxification) program.

The plan—which includes one-on-one Zoom sessions—embraces the whole person (body, mind, and spirit) through the inclusion of health education and incorporating everything from medicinal foods to meditation into your life. The holistic approach creates lasting self-motivation, allowing clients to maintain optimal health on their own—even when faced with sustained periods of stress.

For those looking to incorporate just the detox recipe protocol ASAP—Dr. Roni offers a popular 21 Day Detox and nine-day Maintenance Package. This is a kit with the protein powder and drinks to implement the 21-day diet (chocolate protein powder, very berry flavored essential greens drink, apple banana-flavored essential greens drink, inner cleanse formula, acai liquid berry antioxidant). Turn on your blender, follow the 21 Pounds in 21 Days plan, and you’re on your way to feeling healthier, ready to lose the weight, and jump-start a vital new you.

Dr. Roni’s uses foods dense in phytonutrients and micro-nutrients.

EMOTIONAL RESCUE Detoxing emotionally is just as important as physical rejuvenation. The one-on-one sessions at the Martha’s Vineyard retreat offer clients a deep emotional and physical experience that stays with them long after leaving, explains Dr. Roni whose client base genuinely counts on her to help them stay on the healthiest path. Dr. Roni wants all to realize that whatever your health concern may be, she is here to assist. Most of her recipes begin with a blender and fresh produce—but there’s a hefty dose of education, inspiration, and motivation— and we could all use more of that right now. No wonder, more than a decade after her best-selling book first came out, 21 Pounds in 21 Days is still the go-to-choice for fast, healthy weight loss and successful, remarkably beneficial detox.

From weight loss and recovery to immune function and low libido, Dr. Roni works with clients to make sustainable life changes—physically and emotionally. She’s passionate about the importance of lowering inflammation in the body and reports that “you can reduce inflammation” and improve your health and resilience. Dr. Roni encourages clients to come to the retreat when it is once again open to the public.

Co-author James Hester credits Dr. Roni with saving his life.

For more information on Dr. Roni DeLuz, visit 21pounds21days.com. • OCTOBER 2020 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 47

HEALTH & WELLNESS

AT-HOME SELF CARE A GUIDE TO REAL HEALING

By Elizabeth Martin, L.Ac, LMT

e’re juggling a lot right now: working from home, connecting with our family 24/7, managing Zoom calls and Google Hangouts, and for parents, dealing with a “virtual” school year. With uncertainty, there’s one thing that we should feel confident about: how to navigate our wellness. As a Licensed Acupuncturist and Chinese Medicine Mentor, I encourage and empower my patients to take responsibility for their wellness.

Health starts with us being advocates of our own body, which comes with education and teamwork between patients and practitioners.

There is only so much we can do as practitioners on the treatment table, and now with social distancing, real healing happens when the patient takes the advice and tools given to them to perform at home between their regular acupuncture visits.

MEDICINE FOR A MODERN WORLD The ancient practice of acupuncture uses fine needles that are placed at specific points on the body that are linked to individual meridians, or pathways in which Qi flows. When an acupuncture needle stimulates a certain point, it sends a signal to the brain to help the body to relax, hurdle any pain related to a condition, and reprogram the body to create a pathway for healing. You can use acupuncture to treat many common health issues, from indigestion and headaches to stress and even depression.

As a wellness entrepreneur and health practitioner, I have pivoted my practice to also focus on education and have been using telehealth to consult and encourage self-care. Here, some tools I give my patients to perform between treatments to maintain their overall wellness.

Quality Vitamins If you already have a vitamin brand you love, make sure it passes the absorption test. Not all vitamins are the same, and the absorption test can help you determine if you have a high-quality vitamin that is properly absorbing into the body. To do this, place your vitamin in a glass of water. If the vitamin breaks down in an hour, it is a high-quality vitamin. If it dissolves within 24 hours, it’s still a good vitamin, indicating that it will break down and absorb into your bloodstream. If it has not dissolved at all, the vitamins will not absorb into your bloodstream.

48 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | OCTOBER 2020

Breathwork Acupressure is a form of self-care massage that pinpoints certain areas, as it works to maintain a healthy flow of our body’s metabolism.

Tenderness in an area of the body can indicate stagnation and imbalance where our metabolism cannot flow properly. By pressing on certain points with our fingers, you can boost and encourage your own body’s healthy metabolism flow.

One of the most important acupuncture points is ST36 located on the outside of the knee, parallel to the patella tendon. This point has been used for thousands of years to maintain wellness by ensuring our digestion is metabolizing, and we are properly absorbing nutrients. The best way to find the point is by using four fingers as a measurement below your kneecap, finding the shin, and then measuring one finger breath towards the outside of the shin. The point would be in the tender space below the knee and one finger from the shin.

Use your thumb or index finger to press on the point of tenderness; you can perform clockwise circular motions while taking 5-10 deep breaths. The breath is an important component of creating a smooth flow of metabolism. When you breathe, try to take note to breathe into your belly so that the stomach rises. If you are breathing fast and mostly in your chest, this may induce anxiety. Keep your breath slow and even counting to 5 for inhale/5 for exhale. Our breath is an extension of our subconscious minds; when we come from a place of being grounded, we can more easily navigate stress and maintain our overall wellness.

Acupuncture feet - Elizabeth Martin

Herbal Tea My favorite tea is Earl Grey because of its multitude of health benefits. It is a great substitute for coffee because it gives you a pick-me-up without the jitters, while also relieving anxiety and depression. It contains bergamot oil, which has known properties to calm the mind, boost the immune system, and combat inflammation. According to OrganicFacts. com, the organic compounds and nutrients found in black tea and Earl Grey tea help lower inflammation of the throat and stomach and any other aches, pains, or irritation in the body. It also has natural antioxidants that fight oxidative stress in the body to boost the immune system and prevent many infections and diseases.

Remember, your health starts with you. I am on a mission to modernize Eastern Medicine and give people a choice regarding their bodies and health by educating the world in self-care tools and selfregulation tools. We need to focus on our healing practices to pass on to future generations, and it starts by taking care and being mindful of our overall wellness.

For more information on E lizab eth Martin and her practice, Hands On Acupuncture, visit handsonacupuncture.com. •

Our breath is an extension of our subconscious minds; when we come from a place of being grounded, we can more easily navigate stress…

OCTOBER 2020 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 49

FOOD & DRINK

MARIO’S

A SECOND HOME FOR SOUTHERN ITALIAN FARE!

By Anne Raso

tep into Mario’s and you feel like you’ve been there before. The staff and the atmosphere are as welcoming as it gets. You will love the mixed stone and brick walls and the wine—colored brocade carpeting. Mario’s is a shining jewel on Arthur Avenue’s famous stable of Southern Italian restaurants in the Bronx—so much so that customers have been coming for over 100 years.

The wait staff instinctively knows what regulars want to order whether it be old classics or the restaurant’s take on modern fare.

Fifth-generation owner Regina Migliucci-Delfino greets all who enter Mario’s, and she has the vibe of being a favorite cousin who is always there for you. She makes great recommendations on both food and drink and personally oversees the lovely outdoor dining area with red umbrellas. Mario’s has about 20 outdoor tables, and they always seem to be full. That says a lot right there.

A FAMILY AFFAIR Migliucci-Delfino is a wealth of knowledge about Mario’s history. It’s fascinating to hear her recall it: “Scolastica Migliucci and her son Giuseppe originally opened the business as a pizzeria in 1915 located in Harlem on 114th Street, then moved to Arthur Avenue in 1919. My grandfather Mario and his younger brother Clemente also joined the business, and it was Clemente who became the chef.

Scolastica was their grandmother and Giuseppe their father. Some of the original dishes included pasta with their homemade tomato sauce, meatballs, braciola, and sausage. In the late 30s and 40s, they added veal, chicken, steak, and calamari.”

It’s been a happy journey for the hardworking and close Migliucci family, but COVID-19 hit them right to the core. Regina’s father (and fourth-generation patriarch) Joseph Migliucci passed away from the virus at 81. He was so beloved in the New York restaurant business scene that the New York Times published a beautiful in-depth obituary that would normally be reserved for dignitaries or celebrities.

Migliucci-Delfino reveals, “He was the heart and soul of the restaurant. Coming back to work and reopening the restaurant after the NY Pause has been very tough with mental, physical, and financial challenges. However, in my father’s honor and my family’s long-standing tradition, we felt that we must continue onwards. We began offering outdoor dining and quickly trained our staff to accommodate our customers providing new social distancing and health protocols. I also work very closely with my Chef Massimo to prepare the revised menu featuring lighter choices for the lunch crowd, such as Panini and salads.”

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THE PRIDE OF ARTHUR AVENUE

Mario’s is located in the center of Arthur Avenue’s restaurant hub at #2342 (directly across the street from Dominick’s and Enzo’s), where MigliucciDelfino takes pride in the fact that their location is easy to find (it’s only a 15-minute walk from the Fordham stop on Metro-North).

Migliucci-Delfino loves the neighborhood’s colorful history and notices that it only gets better culturally as time goes on. She remarks, “Arthur Avenue has gone through as many changes as the rest of the city over the years. The neighborhood originally started as an immigrant community, since many Italian workers and stonemasons helped build the Bronx Zoo and New York Botanical Garden in the late 1800’s and beginning of the 20th century. Today, many local businesses and restaurants that have been owned and operated for multiple generations are indeed owned

by Italian-American families. The neighborhood has evolved as more people moved to the city and is now filled with many diverse nationalities and cultures.

It’s very New York.”

A PASSION FOR PIZZA

Being the head of a legendary Italian eatery that celebrated its 100th anniversary in 2019 is something that Migliucci-Delfino is proud of—and she should be! The vivacious brunette tells New York Lifestyles, “It was a blessing working and learning from my father and my grandparents. I learned everything they did best—from customer service to making our world-famous pizza. I am blessed to share this passion. While working with family can sometimes have its difficulties, we are such a closeknit unit that we make it work. It’s been such a learning experience working with my grandparents, uncle, and dad. If I had the choice, I would do it all again. They have made me the person and business owner I am today. I hope that I make them proud and can pass the tradition along to the next generation.”

Mario’s Restaurant Mozzarella Caprese

LOOKING AHEAD

Looking forward to the cooler weather, Mario’s will be offering not only imaginative dishes but one of the tri-state area’s most creative cocktail lists. Migliucci-Delfino states, “For the holidays, we will offer a White Chocolate Peppermint Martini and a Christmas Pear Martini that has been a hit with our customers. I am always working on new ones and we will debut some exciting and delicious inventions this season. Some of our winter menu specials will include Pumpkin Risotto and a 7-Fish Special on Christmas Eve.” Migliucci-Delfino sums up Mario’s magic: It goes beyond quality food in large portions at reasonable prices (be sure to check out their $23.95 lunch special, which includes an entrée and a side).

The most popular dishes include Linguini With White Clam Sauce, Homemade Gnocchi, Fried Calamari, Spiedini Alla Romana, Braciole Napoletana, Veal Parmigiana, and their legendary oldschool Pizza and Saltimbocca.

The out-going owner concludes with a smile, “Our guests are like family! Most of our regular customers have been dining with us for many years, often from generation to generation. Fordham students and their families, for example, come back long after they graduate.”

Mario’s Restaurant Mussels

We have no doubt that Mario’s will be around for another 100 years!

For more info on Mario’s, visit mariosarthuravenue.com.

Reservations are recommended but not necessary. • OCTOBER 2020 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 51

FOOD & DRINK

NERAI

IT’S GREEK FOR ME!

By Patricia Canole

estled on East 54th Street, Nerai has earned the reputation as a top-rated Greek restaurant in the city. Formerly occupied by Oceana, the menu will quickly transport you to the world of fine Mediterranean cuisine.

New York Lifestyles recently visited Nerai, where we were seated for a garden-style dinner (indoor dining had not yet been implemented at the time of this writing). It was wonderful. Trees adorned with twinkling lights set the scene for an enjoyable evening. White tablecloths, good glassware, and the warm air made me feel I was somewhere on a Greek isle. The experience was made even more special with the service staff who exuded the generous spirit of what Greeks call filoxenia.

Under the ownership of Spiro Menegatos and with a young chef, Moshe Grundman, the restaurant shines with the finest Greek food I’ve ever enjoyed. Before my guest arrived, I had an opportunity to peek inside to see the glowing beautiful dining room with its soft lighting playing off folds of white drapery-like fabric.

General manager and sommelier, Michael Coll walked us through the menu and made his recommendations. Grundman’s food is wholly in its groove. He has brought Greek cuisine into 2020 with panache, from the mezes straight through to desserts. The wine list also includes select choices of Greek varietals, with the newest vintages from modern wineries all overseen by Coll.

THE START OF SOMETHING GOOD The amazements arrived: starters that included Grilled Octopus with Santorini Fava (served with caramelized onions and roasted red peppers) and Shrimp Mikrolimano (tiger shrimp in a tomato ragu with feta cheese). A surprising addition to the menu was pasta Hellenic-style. A standout is the Sweet Squid Ink Linguine in Metaxa Bisque with Lobster Meat. For risotto lovers, there is a Mushroom Risotto (with porcini, cremini, beech, and Shiitakes) with Smoked Metsovone Cheese and Paccheri Pasta.

Our main courses were somewhat simpler and heartier, as they should be. We began with pan-seared Dover Sole (served with brown butter caper sauce, asparagus, and cauliflower puree). Then the piece de resistance Lamp Chops (served with glazed honey carrots, onion soubise dolma, and oregano jus). True Greek perfection! Other fine choices include Scallops (served with ouzo honey glazed pork belly, sunchoke, and rainbow cauliflower) and Lavraki (loup de mer deboned, and served with sauteed spinach).

Nerai

Plan to have more than one dessert. The beautifully composed sweets included Sokolatina (milk chocolate mousse, flourless cake with raspberries and vanilla gelato) and Karidoita (walnut cake with milk and honey glaze served with Greek yogurt gelato). Other choices include Saragli (hand-rolled baklava with tahini parfait and vanilla gelato).

The menu at Nerai is just the right size to allow Grundman and his team to execute everything with finesse. To their credit, everything works here on the principle of good flavors and impeccable ingredients combined in a precise way to make something that is wonderfully good. Nerai is our new favorite. We’ll be back for more!

Lamb Chops

52 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | OCTOBER 2020

Of special note is Nerai’s Santorini Sundays which includes a three-course meal for $48.

For more information on Nerai, visit nerainyc.com. •

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FOOD & DRINK

GREAT BITES: TRICK & TREAT

By Sean-Patrick M. Hillman

his time of year is special. The cooler temperatures start to take hold which means comfortoriented food takes priority. Here, three recipes that can easily be prepared for Halloween celebrations and beyond. Bon appetit!

STICKS & BONES (CHINESE STICKY RIBS) You’ll find this recipe is simple and delivers big flavor.

Ingredients 1 rack of pork baby back or St. Louis style ribs, membrane removed 1 tablespoon vegetable oil ½ cup + 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce ¾ cup soy sauce

2 tablespoon oyster sauce ½ cup of water ¾ cup dark brown sugar 2 tablespoons honey 1 tablespoon five-spice powder 2 cloves garlic, minced 1 teaspoon grated fresh or minced ginger 2 tablespoon sesame oil 1 teaspoon cornstarch

Preparation Heat 1 tablespoon vegetable oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add ginger and garlic, stir for 30 seconds. Add ½ cup soy sauce, water, brown sugar, 1 tablespoon sesame oil, 1 tablespoon oyster sauce, ½ cup hoisin sauce, five-spice powder, and 1 tablespoon honey.

Bring to a boil and simmer until thickened some (about 10–15 minutes). Pour 2/3 of the marinade into a large zip-top bag; reserve 1/3 cup for basting later. Add ribs to the bag and marinate, refrigerated for at least three hours (although overnight is ideal). Using an air fryer, set the temperature to 400F. Place ribs in the basket for 10 minutes; flip ribs and cook another 10 minutes. Combine reserve marinade with remaining ingredients and bring to a boil. Baste ribs and cook for the final five minutes. When finished, set on a plate to cool for 5 minutes. When finished, set on a plate to cool. Serving suggestion: Slice ribs and place one or two ribs on a small plate or bowl over sticky rice. Serving suggestion: Use Chinese take-out containers, and fill with one large spoon of rice, one or two ribs, sprinkled with chopped scallion.

CHOCOLATE ALMOND POUND CAKE Plain pound cake doesn’t cut it anymore, try this recipe to kick it up a notch!

Ingredients 1½ cups cake flour 4 oz. semi-sweet chocolate, chopped 2 tablespoons of unsweetened powder 1 teaspoon of almond extract ¼ cup slivered almonds ¼ cup sliced almonds ¼ cup of whole milk 1 teaspoon baking powder ½ teaspoon table salt 1¼ cups sugar 4 large eggs, room temperature 1½ teaspoons vanilla extract 16 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted and hot Preparation Use middle rack position and heat oven to 350F. Grease and flour 8½” x 4½” loaf pan. You can also use a 9” x 5” pan (see below for baking time). Whisk flour, baking powder, and salt together in a bowl until well-mixed. Set aside. Using a blender or food processor mix milk, semi-sweet chocolate, and unsweetened cocoa powder until thoroughly chopped (15–20 seconds). Add sugar, eggs, and vanilla until combined (15 seconds). Add hot melted butter until well-mixed (15–20 seconds). The consistency will resemble a thin pancake-like batter. Transfer to a large bowl. Sift flour mixture over batter in 3 portions, whisking to combine after each. Continue to gently whisk batter until there are no lumps (do not over stir!). Pour batter to the loaf pan, and smooth top layer with a rubber spatula. Lightly tap the pan on your counter to settle the batter. Sprinkle sliced almonds over batter. Place in oven and bake for 60–65 minutes (if using a 9” x 5” pan bake 55–60 minutes); rotate pan halfway during baking. Let cake cool in the pan for 5 minutes. With a knife loosen cake from pan; cool completely on a wire rack for about 2 hours. Serving suggestion: Slice the pound cake, and sprinkle with confectionary and orangecolored sugar.

HALLOWEEN MANGO SANGRIA PUNCH My friend, Buzzy Sklar, who created J.F. Haden’s Mango Liqueur (jfhadens.com), developed this recipe. Use a pitcher to make sure people are observing safe distancing.

54 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | OCTOBER 2020

Ingredients 4 oz. J.F. Haden’s Mango Liqueur 2 oz. fresh orange juice 8 oz. white wine 4 oz. lemon-lime soda

Preparation Stir well. Add sliced fruit to pitcher (oranges, lemons, and limes). Serve over rocks. •

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ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

ON STAGE

BroadwayHD: YOUR TICKET TO THE BEST DRAMAS

By Sara Wiesenfeld

f you’ve made your way through BroadwayHD’s incredible selection of musicals, and are looking for some dramatic flair this fall, look at what BroadwayHD has to offer. BroadwayHD is available on your computer or any of your favorite devices such as Roku, AppleTV, Chromecast & Amazon Firestick.

RED

PRESENT LAUGHTER

Based on the original Donmar Warehouse production, this six-time Tony Award® winning new production of Oscar nominated writer John Logan’s Red stars stage and screen actor Alfred Molina reprises his critically acclaimed performance as the American abstract expressionist painter Mark Rothko. He is joined by rising star Alfred Enoch, of U.S. television drama series How to Get Away With Murder, and the Harry Potter film franchise, as his assistant Ken.

Noel Coward’s totally-irresistible and semi-autobiographical comedy follows a self-obsessed actor, the incomparable Kevin Kline, experiencing a mid-life crisis. Freely indulging his considerable appetite for wine, women, and sleeping late, the theater’s favorite leading man suddenly finds himself caught between fawning ingénues, crazed playwrights, secret trysts, and unexpected twists.

INDECENT

MACBETH

Indecent is inspired by the true events surrounding the controversial 1923 Broadway debut of Sholem Asch’s God of Vengeance—a play seen by some as a seminal work of Jewish culture and others an act of traitorous libel. This Tony-award winner charts the history of an incendiary drama and the path of the artists who risked their careers and lives to perform it.

Patrick Stewart and Kate Fleetwood reprise their Tony Awardnominated stage performances in this gripping adaptation of Shakespeare’s Macbeth, which relocates the bloody action of Shakespeare’s famous play to a nameless 20th-century netherworld.

56 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | OCTOBER 2020

LADY DAY AT EMERSON’S BAR AND GRILL

ANN

It’s March 1959, and at a small Philadelphia club, a star vocalist takes the stage for one of the last shows of her life. This powerhouse performance from six-time Tony Award winner Audra McDonald conjures jazz icon Billie Holiday for an intimate cabaret evening featuring live renditions of her most beloved classics and a revealing glimpse into the woman’s troubled history behind the legend.

Ann is a no-holds-barred portrait of Ann Richards, the legendary governor of Texas. This inspiring and hilarious new play brings us face to face with a complex, colorful, and captivating character bigger than the state from which she hailed. Written and performed

by Emmy Award winner and Tony Award nominee Holland Taylor.

IF I FORGET

PIPELINE

Professor Michael Fischer has reunited with his two sisters to celebrate their father’s 75th birthday. As destructive secrets and long-held resentments bubble to the surface, the three negotiate— with biting humor and razor-sharp insight—how much of the past they’re willing to sacrifice for a chance at a new beginning. If I Forget tells a powerful tale of a family and a culture at odds with itself. Starring Grey’s Anatomy’s Kate Walsh and Jeremy Shamos.

Nya, an inner-city public high school teacher, is committed to her students but desperate to give her only son, Omari, opportunities they’ll never have. When a controversial incident at his upstate private school threatens to get him expelled, Nya must confront his rage and her own choices as a parent. But will she be able to reach him before a world beyond her control pulls him away? Written by Tony Award nominee Dominique Morisseau.

DRIVING MISS DAISY

THE PORTUGUESE KID

Starring the legendary Angela Lansbury and James Earl Jones, the story follows Miss Daisy Werthan, a widowed, 72-year-old Jewish woman living in mid-century Atlanta who is deemed too old to drive by her son Boolie. He hires Hoke Colburn, an African-American man, to serve as her chauffeur. What begins as a troubled and hostile pairing soon blossoms into a profound, life-altering friendship that transcends all the societal boundaries placed between them.

In a new comedy starring Jason Alexander, set in Providence, Rhode Island, The Portuguese Kid focuses on the habitually widowed Atalanta, who pays a visit to her second-rate lawyer Barry Dragonetti. Intending to settle her latest husband’s affairs, this larger-than-life tightwad quickly becomes a nightmare for her cheesy, self-aggrandizing attorney. •

OCTOBER 2020 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 57

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

ON THE SMALL SCREEN

By Jenny Peters

HALLOWEEN HORRORS HUBIE HALLOWEEN Netflix October means Halloween, and this year even Adam Sandler is jumping into the horror genre, albeit with laughs mixed in. In this made-forNetflix family movie, Sandler is a small-town busybody who makes protecting everyone on Halloween his business. When weird happenings start to envelop his hometown of Salem, Hubie turns into a hero. Julie Bowen, Kevin James, Kenan Thompson, Ray Liotta, and Maya Rudolph co-star.

THE HAUNTING OF BLY MANOR Netflix The next standalone installment in Netflix’s The Haunting series based on the scary stories of Henry James is The Haunting of Bly Manor, this one set in England in the 1980s. Henry Thomas stars as the Gothic estate owner where weird and terrifying events unspool as a new nanny arrives on the scene. Also starring Victoria Pedretti, Amelie Bea Smith, and Benjamin Evan Ainsworth.

MONSTERLAND Hulu Fear rules in the new anthology series Monsterland, as every episode, thrusts characters into horrors that boggle the human mind. Based on Nathan Ballingrud’s novel North American Lake Monsters, this series is sure to send shivers, even if it isn’t Halloween night. Kaitlyn Dever, Jonathan Tucker, and Taylor Schilling star.

THE WALKING DEAD: WORLD BEYOND AMC While AMC retires the original The Walking Dead TV show, another iteration comes to life just in time for Halloween. In the new series, the teenage characters have all been born and raised during the zombie apocalypse; they know no other life than being hyper-aware of the threat of those flesh-eating monsters. Co-starring Annet Mahendru, Nico Torotella, and Aliyah Royale (and a host of walking, rotting corpses).

DEEP DRAMAS THE GOOD LORD BIRD Showtime Take a journey into history with this limited series that explores the life of John Brown (Ethan Hawke), the man whose abolitionist activism was a key catalyst of the American Civil War. Based on the award-winning novel by James McBride and told through the eyes of a young slave (played

by Joshua Caleb Johnson), this historical series reminds us that the racial tensions that remain in the USA began a very long time ago.

58 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | OCTOBER 2020

THE RIGHT STUFF Disney+ Revisit the race for space with this eight-episode series adapted from Tom Wolfe’s famous book about America’s first astronauts.

Familiar names are featured, like John Glenn, Alan Shephard, and the other Mercury Seven astronauts who vied to become the first man in space. Produced by National Geographic, this is a fascinating, in-depth look at how the USA made it into orbit.

Patrick J. Adams and Jake McDorman take the leads.

TEMPLE Spectrum Originals Mark Strong stars and produces this tense crime drama centering on a desperate British surgeon who opens an underground (literally) clinic in the tunnels below the London Metro.

Desperate to raise cash because of a family crisis, he soon discovers that you enter a world of crime and danger when you go underground. Based on a popular Norwegian series and a hit in the U.K., Temple is sure to thrill Americans that love dark thrillers.

THE UNDOING HBO Nicole Kidman and Hugh Grant bring a top pedigree to this tale of marital betrayal that unfolds over six episodes. Add in 11-time Emmy Award winning writer-creator David E. Kelley (Big Little Lies, Goliath, Ally McBeal) and co-star Donald Sutherland and this one should launch it into awards contention as soon as it hits the small screen. Adapted from Jean Hanff Korelitz’s novel You Should Have Known, all six episodes are directed by Emmy winner Susanne Bier (The Night Manager).

MARQUEE MOVIES HEADING STRAIGHT TO TV ON THE ROCKS Apple TV + Oscar-winning writer-director Sofia Coppola teams up once again with Bill Murray (her Lost in Translation star), to create a film that was expected to be a box-office darling this fall. It’s the comical story of a father (Murray) and daughter (Rashida Jones) who band together to figure out if her husband (Marlon Wayans) is cheating on her. Their quest takes them all over NYC in this love letter to the city and to family relationships, too.

THE GLORIAS Amazon Prime As the Oscars for 2020 are considering films released solely via streaming services, it’s no surprise that this top-Hollywoodpedigree biopic is going straight to Amazon Prime. Emmy and Tony winner Julie Taymor helms this biopic of Gloria Steinem (based on her biographical book) that stars Oscar winners Julianne Moore, Alicia Vikander, and Timothy Hutton and follows Steinem’s captivating story. The story is framed via a road movie, where other key characters in this true-life tale are played by Bette Midler, Janelle Monae, Lorraine Toussaint, and Monica Sanchez.

THE TRIAL OF THE CHICAGO 7 Netflix Oscar- and Emmy-winning screenwriter Aaron Sorkin certainly expected his film that revisits the fates of the seven men who so famously disrupted the 1968 Chicago Democratic Convention to be the talk of the nation and a box-office winner come fall awards season. Instead, it’s another high-profile movie going straight to streaming. But never fear, this still-relevant story of the Chicago 7 that stars Oscar winners Eddie Redmayne and Mark Rylance will still be Oscar eligible in this strange year of 2020. • OCTOBER 2020 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 59

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

MvVO ART AD SHOW 2020 CELEBRATING CREATIVITY & TALENT

By Lillian Langtry

vVO ART, the creator of AD ART SHOW, announced freelance art director/graphic designer Anton Pitkänen for Top Honors at AD ART SHOW 2020, receiving a specialty Clio award of excellence in contemporary art and a Creative Immersion Day at NBCUniversal—AD ART SHOW’s presenting sponsor.

Pitkänen said that his work could best be described as serene and poetic. “I’m getting close to my first decade as an artist. I’ve been filled with joy for the strength and trust I feel toward my artistic voice and how it’s naturally evolving within the process.”

Jessica Alazraki and David Straange were also AD ART SHOW 2020 Winning Artists, selected by a jury of contemporary art collectors chaired by Laura Skoler, member of the Board of Directors, New Museum, New York. The three winning artists will receive professional art critique sessions to help further their art careers.

WHITNEY MUSEUM OF AMERICAN ART AD ART SHOW celebrates creativity and talented artists from advertising. This diverse group of artists—painters, sculptors, photographers, works on paper and mixed media artists—came from around the world. The artworks were displayed on the monumental screens inside the Oculus at the Westfield World Trade Center in New York and available for sale online on the Artsy Gallery platform; visit the the MvVO Art website (see below).

“We are making history,” commented MvVO ART-AD SHOW CEO and founder, Maria van Vlodrop. “We are bridging the gap between the art and advertising world by championing the next generation of artists from advertising. We’re following in the footsteps of famous artists like Andy Warhol, Rene Magritte, Mark Rothko, and countless other now-famous artists who all started in the advertising world.”

With seven finalists chosen out of 135 selected participating artists, here are the honorees.

Jessica Alazraki, Together

Anton Pitkanen, Talk By the River

MVVO AD ART SHOW 2020 Finalists & Winners Anton Pitkänen, Top Honors including Clio Award A freelance designer and art director in Helsinki, Finland, Anton Pitkänen developed an exceptional visual language using mixed media to achieve free-hanging, cloth-like art pieces evoking a meditative aura. He was in the top three of the Basware International Art Competition in 2019. Info: @antonpitkanen.

Jessica Alazraki, Winning Artist Originally from Mexico City, Ms. Alazraki is a graduate of Universidad Anáhuac and Parsons in New York.

She has worked at various advertising agencies. She also studied at The New York Academy of Art. Her figurative portraits explore the narratives in familiar scenes of Latino family life.

Info: @jessicaalazraki1.

60 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | OCTOBER 2020

David Straange, New Moon

David Straange, Winning Artist From Charlotte, North Carolina, based in New York, Mr. Straange explores various styles from Neo-Minimalist to Neo-geo. His work conveys city life’s chaotic energy—the primal, the civil, and everything in-between. Info: @davidstraange.

Svetlana Akhmadieva Originally from Russia, Svetlana Akhmadieva is a Brand Strategist at PepsiCo; she holds a bachelor’s degree in Communications Design from New York City College of Technology. She has made a home in the New York Design Community, where she advocates integrating design into all aspects of a business. Ms. Akhmadieva’s artwork is nuanced and complex, form as language, rejecting nihilism, and embracing its diversity. Info: @vidi_veni_amavi.

Jeremy Howe, Apparition

Svetlana Akhmadieva, Forever and a Day

Jeremy Howe A self-taught artist from a family of award-winning artists, Mr. Howe holds a degree in geology from New Mexico Tech. The expertise he puts to great use as his medium of choice is fireworks. His work “pyroglyphs” (fire writing) captures the excitement of colored smoke and oxidation on paper, winning him museum exhibits, including the Ft. Collins Museum of Contemporary Art and the International Museum of Art in El Paso. Info: @roswellartist.

Hyun Jung Ji Born in South Korea, Ms. Hyun Jung lives and works in Los Angeles. She trained as a painter at the Art Center College of Design in Pasadena, where she began to develop her meticulous, illustrative approach to art. Each work is an evocative deep dive into her consciousness and memories. She was featured in MvVO ART’s debut AD ART SHOW in 2018 at Sotheby’s New York and again in AD ART SHOW 2019. Her work has been exhibited worldwide, including Malamegi Lab in Venice, Italy, Artroom Fairs in London, England, and the All-Stars at Art Share in Los Angeles. Info: @hyungjungeee_ji.

Hyun Jung Ji, Depression Pool

Danilo Rinaldini, Deo Coram by Vakandoed

Danilo Rinaldini Seventeen years in graphic design inspired Mr. Rinaldini to work with clippings, old illustrations, and other intriguing materials. He created the word Vakendöd—Be Awake/Dead for his multi-disciplinary, black and white project encompassing collage, painting, sound design, sculpture, fashion design, and jewelry. Info: @vakendod.

For more information about AD ART SHOW 2020, MvVO ART, and the advertising artists, visit mvvoart.com. • OCTOBER 2020 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 61

NEW YORK, NY

PAWS DOWN…TAILS UP ZOOM IN ON HALLOWEEN COSTUMES FOR OUR FURRY MONSTERS

By Melanie Carden

eel like a zombie on Zoom meetings? Our best buddies—notorious now for their video meeting appearances—can help you shake off the cobwebs. Time then to give in to the ghoulish and garish frivolity of Howl-o-ween with these costumes for your furry friends! There is one trick, though: with over 25 million Americans buying pet costumes each year—and flooding social media with cuteness overload—Fido an Fifi have got some steep competition. Dress up the pups and costume your cats—walk ‘em and flaunt ‘em, baby!

FRISCO STEGOSAURUS DINOSAUR CALIFORNIA COSTUMES FRISCO TACO USPS DELIVERY DRIVER The Frisco Stegosaurus is truly a Jurassic classic, Choriz-OH-My-Goodness! Whether you it’s a great option for the furry little treat predator A fun tribute to the women and in your life. Get outdoors—and add some smiles men who shouldered all the extra and roars. Info: chewy.com packages and deliveries during the pandemic, this costume gets our stamp of approval. Info: chewy.com

prefer carnitas or vegetarian, there’s just no comparison—your furry friend will be the (Taco) bell of the ball in this yummy costume.

Info: chewy.com

FRISCO WEREWOLF The curse of cuteness has been cast! There may be a bite in the air—but no worries! Your little beast will nip the chill away with this classic Werewolf costume. Info: chewy.com

RUBIE’S WALKING YODA & LIGHTSABER FRISCO SPOOKY GHOST HALLOWEEN SWEATER

Who da good, good boy? Yo-da good boy!

For the furry little Jedi Master in your life—the walking Yoda costume is surely Add this boo-tiful sweater to your dog a crowd pleaser. Star Wars forever! Info: or cat’s fall wardrobe. It’s cozy, festive, chewy.com and fetching! With sizes from x-small to x-large, it’s sure to offer a supernatural fit for Fido or Fifi. Info: chewy.com

OCTOBER 2020 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 63

P.L.A.Y. HOWLING HAUNTS PLUSH TOY COLLECTION

RUBIE’S ALADDIN

A spooktacular set of creepishly cute toys packed with bewitching features and sure to make your furry friend howl with joy. After all the Halloween treats are gone, they will be grateful to have these tasty toys to sink their teeth into! Info: www.petplay.com

For the sultan of snausages—behold the most charming Aladdin from Rubie’s Costume Company for dogs or cats.

Add a little magic this Hallows Eve and create fun memories with your mischievous genie. Info: chewy.com

FRISCO SPACESHIP Bowwow Blast-Off! If your shaggy sidekicks are outta this world, then this interstellar seller is the way to go.

They may howl and hover while out for your late-October trick or treat— but earthlings will “ooh and aah.” Info: chewy.com

FRISCO OCTOPUS

FRISCO MONKEYS WITH BANANAS

FRISCO GIRAFFE

Let Fido take Halloween to new depths— undersea! This octo-paw costume is perfect for your adorable treat-eating companion. Is your favorite chum a bit of a shrinking violet? Not in this purple showstopper! Info: chewy.com

A dog carrying a box of bananas? Dare we say… it’s very a-peel-ing? Whether you have a pug that likes puns or a bunch of praise, add this to your 2020 costume rotation. Info: chewy.com

There once was a dog - and a cat - named Spot. They asked for a Halloween treat and this is what they got. Obviously. It’s a jungle out there. Be prepared to take lovability to the extreme. Info: chewy.com

PET KREWE COOKIE MONSTER

DEADLY KILLER CHUCKY DOLL

FRANKENSTEIN FRANKEN-PUP

TRICK OR TREAT BASKET PLUSH DOG TOY

From Sesame Street to Main Street, USA—it’s our mostloved Halloween monster— Cookie Monster! Perfect for the pet crazy for treats of all kinds. Info: chewy.com

For the dog (or cat) feeling mischievous and slightly creepy this Halloween, turn him or her into an iconic horror movie figure aka Chucky from the 1988 thriller. Get ready for a slashing good time! Info: petcostumecenter.com

Your pup will transform into an evil creature of the night with this Frankenstein Franken-pup Dog Costume. Dog by day, monster by night. Fido will turn heads this spooky Halloween!

Info: petcostumecenter.com

Your dog will be the most PAWsome four-legged friend in the neighborhood with this Jack-o’-lantern basket. Join the holiday fun as your pup digs for the goodies inside this burrow basket toy. Info: petcostumecenter.com •

64 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | OCTOBER 2020

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NEW YORK, NY

ENTREPRENEUR’S CORNER

JOE WILSON, FOUNDER & CEO OF THE QUIVER

By Bailey Beckett

oe Wilson, just shy of 30-yearsold, has been a surfer since he was a kid growing up in Atlantic City, NJ. Now a seasoned photo shoot producer in New York City, he hasn’t given up his affinity for the sport.

In fact, he’s dived deeper (pardon the pun). Wilson is the face of The Quiver, an Airbnb-like service that rents surfboards to riders around the globe. Now in 20 countries, the idea is to connect surfers to board owners, so they don’t have to travel/carry with them as they chase the waves around the globe. “Quiver is a two-sided marketplace connecting surfers with surfboards on demand,” Wilson says. “Using Quiver, everyday surfers can make money renting out their boards to others. The Quiver marketplace puts the available and inactive surfboard supply back to work allowing anyone with boards to start making money renting them out.” Currently there are thousands of boards listed, including from premium brands like Album, Campbell Brothers, Channel Islands, Lost, and Pyzel among others.

The site’s easy navigation and communal atmosphere is a virtual community for surfers, who can also meet fellow riders and share tips and recommendations. In a COVID world, surfing has gained new popularity for its singular experience, allowing people to enjoy the waves by themselves or with small groups of friends. New York Lifestyles paddled our board out to sea to interview Wilson, a former CBS editor, to find out about the surftascular new venture.

66 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | OCTOBER 2020

Quiver Co-Founder CEO Joe Wilson

How does The Quiver work?

Think of Airbnb, but for surfboards. It only takes a few clicks and minutes to sign up for Quiver if you’re looking to rent a board. From there you can start searching for the perfect board near you or where you will be traveling to. From there you can message board owners directly about timing, submit a rental request with prepayment, and then receive a confirmation once accepted. If you’d like to list a board from your quiver, it’s also super easy and you can add a listing directly on our site.

You can choose the rates to rent your board and individually accept rental requests that work for you.

What was your inspiration?

I have been surfing since I was a kid and have had the opportunity to travel around the world chasing waves with friends. I’ve also experienced arriving at a destination with a bag of broken boards, which cost more to transport than the price of my own seat. I always thought this process was flawed. The inspiration came from the desire to travel with ease and surf everywhere. What was once an idea and experiment has now turned into a marketplace where surfers are renting out their personal boards in twenty countries. It’s not just about renting a board while traveling either. Surfers are using Quiver to demo boards before buying and to test out unique boards listed on the marketplace.

How do you plan to launch/grow this?

We have thousands of boards listed with an even larger community of others that are renting them. Like other sharing economy marketplaces, we’ve heard stories of like-minded surfers connecting all over the globe and friendships starting with a Quiver rental. This is what really gets us excited and motivates us to build the best and most trusted online community for surfboards.

Our mission is to make surfboards more accessible and to bring people together. We plan to grow thoughtfully by sticking to this mission and our core values. We also plan to bring even more value to the community by including local surfboard shapers and surf shops on the marketplace too.

Who is the customer?

Quiver users are predominantly male, ages 25-40 years old, ranging from highly experienced traveling surfers from around the globe to newer surfers who are experimenting with different types, sizes, and constructions of boards. We’ve personally seen the joy on someone’s face when they try a new board that’s a perfect fit, which makes it special. There’s nothing worse than watching fun waves without a board, so Quiver is designed to allow access to boards virtually anywhere.

In the age of COVID, where does this fit in?

In times of uncertainty and change, being out in the ocean is beneficial in so many ways. Surfing has always been a socially distant sport. In fact, when you find waves with your friends without anyone else in the water, they can be the most memorable and best sessions. With the ever-changing ocean and swell conditions, part of the surfing experience is the search. No two waves or days are the same. And the beauty of surfing is all you need is a board.

We now encourage contact-free rental exchanges for both board owners and renters. This means placing the board on the ground, stepping 6 feet back, and waiting for the board to be collected by the owner. We at Quiver take this very seriously and encourage our members to as well as it’s especially important for preventing the spread of germs.

For more information on The Quiver, visit thequiver.com. • OCTOBER 2020 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 67

NEW YORK, NY

MY NEW YORK STORY

By Eha Urbsalu, Viking Beauty Secrets

ygge is a Danish-Norwegian word describing the art of being cozy while practicing the art of self-care and wellness at home. It is a lifestyle practiced in all Northern European countries, a pearl of wisdom and willingness to let the calm of nature be a part of one’s life.

These past months have been unprecedented, and the global health-crisis has taught us about the importance of self-care and health rituals. The external stress and anxiety caused by this crisis was something even the toughest of New Yorkers had a hard time dealing with.

For many, these changes also reflected on the skin, which I have always been conscious of ever since moving to New York City.

THE ROAD TO NYC I was born in Estonia, which at the time was part of the Soviet Union. I studied at a specialized music school, which kept me busy for most of my childhood. During my last year of high school, I won the Miss Estonia and Supermodel of Soviet Union competitions, which led me to compete in the Supermodel of the World. I placed 4th and the organizer, Ford Modeling Agency, brought me to New York City. It was 1989; the city was overwhelming, and I spoke little English. But it was exciting! Eventually, after traveling around the world modeling and acting for a few years, I returned to New York and enrolled in Hunter College. This is when I finally felt like I belonged here. I was a New Yorker!

However, my skin and health prompted problems shortly after moving to the city. I never had acne, yet once settling down in New York City, my skin was breaking out. One time, after three terrible colds, my good friend Sherry took me to a Second Avenue health food store for their wheatgrass juice and loads of organic greens. This was the first time I ever heard the word organic.

Growing up in Northern Europe, I had never thought about the words organic and clean beauty. We always used local, natural products made from plants native to our lands. These Nordic super antioxidant berries for skin care and health benefits for centuries. They are our Viking beauty secrets, and even my mother, in her late 80s, still has rosy cheeks and healthy skin.

68 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | OCTOBER 2020

Eha With Viking Beauty Products ©Rauno Liivand

THE REAL SECRET I learned about the chemicals in skincare, and food sold in America. It was disturbing to find out that while the European Union bans over 1,300 chemicals from skincare, the U.S. only bans 30. I realized we needed to eliminate these chemicals and return to the calming Nordic beauty rituals and unpolluted ingredients.

So, for the next decade, I kept bringing skincare products from Estonia to my model girlfriends here in New York, until finally, I started my skincare brand, Viking Beauty Secrets.

Nordic super-antioxidant berries such as rowanberries, cloudberries, and sea buckthorn have become our principal ingredients. These nutrient-packed berries provide a megadose of natural antioxidants, carotene, essential fatty acids and vitamin C. They provide that “Scandinavian Glow” and protect the skin from radical damage and support cellular regeneration. It makes a difference where plants grow. Northern Europe is the eco-friendliest region of the world. It is sparsely populated, with the cleanest air and soil, and consistently scores high on the Yale Environmental Performance Index.

Because there is so much confusion about green and clean, I had all Viking Beauty Secrets products Greenlife Cosmos EcoCert Organic Certified.

EcoCert is the largest certification agency in Europe that audits all raw ingredients from plant to bottle. Already our second product, a certified Organic Day Cream with Sea Buckthorn, won the Best Moisturizer of 2019 Award from Think Dirty, the Canadian company that verifies skincare ingredients.

Scrub Launch NYC ©Sasha Soin

BEYOND ORGANIC

Viking Beauty Nordic Glow Set ©Von Wesen

Our company sets standards beyond organic and natural; we are also a sustainable skincare company. Our certified Organic Exfoliating Face Scrub is made with Icelandic volcanic sand and rowanberries, the only scrub offered in the U.S. In fact, many scrubs selling in the U.S. still use plastic microbeads, which harm our fragile marine life, and later humans ingest them through food sources. We care about the oceans and clean water.

Our ambassador and brand partner, international swim champion Merle Liivand, made the Guinness Book of World Records by swimming 10K in a mermaid tail to bring awareness to all the chemicals and microbeads used in skincare products. We use glass bottles for our creams, and our scrub is in recycled post-consumer material, with all packaging being 100 percent recyclable.

Recent events have taught us we cannot control the world. However, we can control what chemicals we ingest through our food and what we apply to our skin. We can choose organic, non-toxic products that do not harm our immune system, while also helping our environment. Adapting mindful selfcare practices and being more Hygge can get us through anything.

For more information on Eha Urbsalu and Viking Beauty Secrets, visit vikingbeauty.com. • OCTOBER 2020 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 69

NEW YORK, NY

A NEW YORK RANT TABLE FOR NONE, PLEASE

By Sean-Patrick M. Hillman

y Mother, Michelle Corbin Hillman, was one of the founders of The James Beard Foundation.

Basically, that means I was lucky enough to spend a lot of my childhood in four- and fivestar kitchens. As I got older, I helped many friends who got into the hospitality sector with business development, marketing advice, recipe development, etc. So, obviously, New York’s restaurant scene has a special place in my heart.

When Governor Andrew Cuomo announced that all restaurants and bars in the state needed to close for the pandemic response, of course, the community understood and respected the decision. Flash forward six months, and the sentiment has changed. No, not because of the desperation these people are facing. Remember, most restaurants are family owned and operated small businesses. They live and die by the turnover and profit from their bar operations (most restaurants are not profitable from food sales, whereas their bar business allows them to grow and pay their staff, etc.). These people are angry because of the hypocrisy coming out of both Albany and City Hall. Can you blame them?

After watching protest after riot after political exception to the rules (i.e., MTV VMA Awards, fireworks, etc.), people are wondering why the city and state are so hell-bent on destroying the core of New York’s lifeblood—the restaurant business. As a mea culpa, earlier this summer, Mayor deBlasio provided outdoor permits for applicable restaurants (i.e., outdoor space availability, parking lane availability, etc.) to begin to serve food and alcohol again. The only problem is that deBlasio continued to lie to New Yorkers. His statistics are all padded. As an example, he keeps saying there are 25,000 restaurants in NYC. No, there are more than 36,000. He keeps saying that restaurants are now able to pay their rent because of his policy. Funny, almost every statistic and survey shows that over 80 percent of restaurants couldn’t pay their rent for July and August. As yet, another deflection and a desperate attempt to appear to care, deBlasio has announced that the outdoor dining permits will be extended through October and available again next summer.

IT’S ALL POLITICAL

Now let’s look at the NY State’s response. In the first week of September, Governor Cuomo stated that the city is not ready for indoor dining, blaming Mayor deBlasio for lack of mask and social distancing enforcement. Then the NYC Hospitality Alliance, along with 300 restaurants and Assemblywoman Nicole Malliotakis, filed a $2 billion lawsuit against both the city and state in the hopes that Governor Cuomo would allow re-opening of indoor dining.

Interestingly enough, 24 hours after the Governor’s public statement, he did a full 180-degree shift, allowing 25 percent capacity for indoor dining as of September 30th. He made no mention of enforcement or what had changed in that 24-hour period. Don’t kid yourselves folks, this is all political. No, I am not saying the virus isn’t real. It is very real. I know at least 15 people who have died because of it. What is political is the decisions being made. Do Cuomo and deBlasio really care about the 300,000+ people that the hospitality business employs? In my opinion, they only care about their votes. That being the case, there is no priority for them to re-open things that are not benefitting their careers. Just look at the decisions both have made over the last few months.

So, the question becomes, why did Cuomo flipflop in less than 24 hours on indoor dining? A few friends in Albany have specifically stated to me that the Governor is terrified that his future in politics is on life support because of the nursing home death scandal. With the lawsuit filed, Cuomo had hoped the crumbs he handed out to restaurant owners would make them back down.

In response, Assemblywoman and Congressional hopeful Nicole Malliotakis flatlined any chance the Governor has of making this lawsuit go away. They are proceeding on the suit until Cuomo allows a minimum of 50 percent capacity. The Governor alleges that come November; if the numbers are still down, he will expand to 50 percent capacity allowance. In other words, he is giving them enough rope to hang themselves with, in his mind.

70 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | OCTOBER 2020

Brooklyn Chop House outdoor patio

Brooklyn Dumpling Shop

WHERE’S THE GUIDANCE?

Twenty-five percent is a slap in the face to places like my friend Stratis Morfogen’s Brooklyn Chop House and Brooklyn Dumpling Shop, where he spent a lot of time and money preparing to keep his guests safe for indoor dining before the announcement. I have known Stratis for 30 years. He is one of the most caring, creative, and hard-working restaurateurs I have ever known. Or my friend Nicola who owns Mercury Bar in Hell’s Kitchen with her family and the work she has put in to keep her guests safe while maintaining her business. They and many others are not getting the support and guidance they need from government agencies like the State Liquor Authority, who is now doing spot checks at the Governor’s behest, often leading to exorbitant fines unlawfully issued for political reasons and statistics.

The net-net is simple. Both deBlasio and Cuomo are playing political hot potato with the future of this city’s lifeblood. If we don’t get restaurants and bars safely open by the holiday season, 2021 will make 2020 look like an ice cream sundae. Of course, we need to stay safe as this virus has too many variables, but treating restaurateurs, and their employees, like children, is not the solution. Education and mask mandate enforcement is. Time to stop with the politics and let people get back to their lives for the betterment of all New Yorkers.• Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in this article are those of the author. They do not purport to reflect the opinions or views of New York Lifestyles.

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NEW YORK, NY

TIME OUT WITH....

TONY FORTUNA

By Patricia Canole

ew York is a beef-loving town. Just look at the many temples of dry-aged beef: Steakhouses and steak restaurants that line Manhattan streets. From old classics that tout porterhouse to new-wave establishments where you get your medium-rare sirloin with a side of pasta is what makes this city the restaurant capital.

But when the coronavirus pandemic arrived, restaurants and their staff and the New Yorkers who dine out more than they eat in were jolted into a new reality. Tony Fortuna, the owner of the Upper East Side TBar Steak & Lounge, recently said that 30 percent of the city’s restaurants might close in the wake of the pandemic. He recently said that many restaurateurs might decide it’s just not worth it.

Currently, TBar is serving food for takeout/delivery. Eventually, when restaurants finally reopen, safety/health measures will have to be considered. Packing diners in close together will no longer be the norm. Owners are facing trying times now and into the future.

Tony Fortuna, who recently opened a second TBar in Southampton, is in it for the long haul. When you meet him, you sense old school professionalism but also a sensitivity to the changing tastes of the times. Finding time in his busy schedule, we caught up with the restaurant owner who told us how it all began.

Was cooking always in your future?

I was born in Cassino, Italy. Eventually, the family immigrated to the U.S. and settled in Michigan. With six children at home, my mother was always cooking, and we still had to do our part.

From an Italian family, my parents would do everything on their own—make their prosciutto, sausages; you name it. This was to keep alive traditions from back home. It was very inspiring.

Tony Fortuna

What inspired you to get into the restaurant business?

While working at my uncle’s restaurant in France, I fell in love with the hospitality business and the French culture. I loved interacting with people.

Is TBar your first and only restaurant?

I’ve opened quite a few restaurants in New York for others. I became partners with Charlie Palmer through the suggestion At day’s end, what is the secret to your success? of his wife, Lisa, whom I worked with at Tavern on the Quite simply, it’s consistency which is the No. 1 goal. Take care of your Green and Lafayette. We opened Lenox Room in 1995, which was customer, and the customer will always come back. revamped in 2007 to the present-day TBar Steak and Lounge.

How has the natural/organic/health menu impacted both What distinguishes your restaurant from other steakhouses restaurants?

Besides the steak portion of our menu, we offer many healthy items in New York City?

We are not the classic steakhouse. Steaks make up only 40 percent that our customers enjoy. I’m happy that most of our menu choices are of our menu. TBar has a diversified menu that is prepared fresh locally fresh, natural, and organic. and is consistently delicious. We’re not a restaurant that changes the menu every day, because our customers love what we offer. How do you select your beef? Is there one purveyor you work with and trust?

There are many good purveyors in the city, but once we zeroed in on Tell us more about the new TBar Southampton.

The occasion came up, and I noticed that our customers have four main vendors, we were faithful to them. And they have been loyal houses there in the summer. For us, it was a winner from the to us with their quality. beginning. We do the same menu with the same quality.

How does Tony Fortuna relax? Do you have hobbies?

For me, relaxing on a day off is staying at home, ordering in, reading TBar the newspapers, and watching Netflix. ©TBar What does the future hold for Tony Fortuna?

Before I retire, I would like to open another dream restaurant.

Something that caters to everybody with a Mediterranean-inspired menu of fresh, healthy food along with fish and sushi.

Anything else you would like to add?

For today’s diner, there’s no doubt you want to try a little bit of everything. That’s what makes TBar successful, because we have the image of a steakhouse, but offer so much more!

For more information on TBar Steak And Lounge, visit tbarnyc.com. •

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YOUR INVESTMENT PROPERTY SPECIALISTS Margaret E. Crowley, Broker | Lissete Cadwell, Realtor | Christopher Eversman, Realtor WWW.HAWKSCAYREALTY.COM | 305-289-4887 Margaret E. Crowley, Licensed Florida Real Estate Broker 1551 Coral Ct., Sugarloaf Key, FL 33042