Social Life SEPTEMBER 2020
In the Hamptons with
JAMES C. METZGER
THE 8
GRAN COUPE
©2020 BMW of North America, LLC. The BMW name, model names and logo are registered trademarks.
TURKS & CAICOS sEa turtlE ProJEct
turKsAndcaicosTOURISm.COm
call today & ExPEriEncE tomorrow 800 –241–0824
turKS & cAicoS ECO–ADVENTURE
TURkSAndCAICOStouriSm.com
CAll TODAY & ExpERIENCE TOMORROw 800 –241–0824

Social Life S e pte mb e r 2020
Southampton, Photography by Marsin Mogielski
L I F E S T Y L E A N D F E AT U R E S Jewelry Shopping Runway Fashion Health & Beauty Cover Stor y
18 22 26 28 34 55
SOCIET Y AND EVENT PHOTOS Society Hot Shots Parties
67 84 86
H O M E , T R AV E L , A N D P R O F I L E S Art Home Travel Food & Wine Profiles
88 94 104 110 122
Social Life
with
in
Social Life S e pte mb e r 2020
Publisher JUSTIN MITCHELL Editor-in-Chief DEVORAH ROSE Managing Editor
BARI TRONTZ
FEATURES
Advertising and Senior Editor Christine Montanti Wine and Spirits Editor Sharon Roth Travel Editor R. Couri Hay Charity Editor MJ Pedone Mom Editor Lyss Stern Home and Design Editor Sarah Parker Young Book Editor Gina Mason Local Hamptons Editor Karen Berliner Executive Editor Anthony Giampetruzzi Men’s Fasion Editor MJ Pedone Editor Suzanne Delay Features Editor Inna DeSilva Social Editor Jean Shafiroff Social Editor Missy Hargraves Social Editor Rachel Heller Social Editor Chanel Korby International Editor Norah Bradford
CONTRIBUTING EDITORS AND WRITERS Blaire Bass, Brad Boles, Cecilia Dawn, Alyssa Goldman, Frances Gormley, Teresa Fisher, Fallon Harrington, Rose Hartman, Cristina Hilsenrath, Helaina Hovitz, Alex Lerner, Jennifer Liedke, Bennett Marcus, Amanda McElroy, Robyn Michele, Monica Navia, Isaiah Negron, Krista Norris, Patrick Shannon, Kristin Sluyk, Mike Virgintino, George Wayne PHOTOGRAPHERS Patrick McMullan, Rob Rich, Cassidy Sparrow, Laura Mircik-Sellers, Vital Agibalow, Jerritt Clark, Joe Corrigan, Don Fitzgibbon, Olga Goworek, Harry Heuts, Robert Linton, M arsin Mogielski, Mike Ruiz, Gail Tobias
ART Art Editor
Mago
FASHION / BEAUTY
Fashion Editor Gregory DelliCarpini Jr. Beauty Director Jeanette M. Zinno Jewelry Editor Jonathan Valdez
COVER
Cover James C. Metzger Executive Producer Christine Montanti Photography By Don Fitzgibbon
WELLNESS
Wellness Editor Zoe Bullock Wellness Writer Erika Bloom Wellness Writer L.A. Dawson Wellness Writer Stacey Griffith Wellness Writer Kristy Rao
CORPORATE
Creative Director Marsin Mogielski Senior Executive Melissa Mitchell-Boyd Advertising Sales Director Robyn Michele Executive Manager Jennifer Lesser New Business Developer Cass Almendral Luxury Director Robert Pace
SPECIAL THANKS To our Healthcare Workers, First Responders, and Essential Workers. Advertising and Sponsorship Please contact Social Life at 212.725.1860 advertising@sociallifemagazine.com Publishing Offices: SOCIAL LIFE MAGAZINE, INC. 315 West 39th Street, Suite 1001, New York, NY 10018
Social Life
NEW! TZATZIKI DIP
PUBLISHER’S LETTER
Nothing quite compares to a Hamptons summer. I would say the same goes for autumn. Come September, the Hamptons transforms into a different but equally vibrant version of itself. There are many fall activities the Hamptons has to offer — apple picking, playing a round at Montauk Downs, visiting vineyards, or riding your bike through the less traveled roads. Out here, with the natural surroundings and time spent at the ocean, everything seems a little more special. In November and December, the Hamptons is still a great place to spend time with family for the holidays. Even though I’m fond of New York, there is something about the Hamptons I love but can’t describe in mere words. I recommend trying to find out why spending time in the Hamptons may define your life.
Justin Mitchell
Social Life
HUMMUS THE PERFECT SERVE
LETTER FROM THE EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
September’s Baccalaureate A combination is Of Crickets — Crows — and Retrospects And a dissembling Breeze That hints without assuming — An Innuendo sear That makes the Heart put up its Fun And turn Philosopher.”
Devorah Rose, Nomi Ellenson Photography
~ Emily Dickinson
So many feelings flood the heart as autumn approaches. Renewed by summer and ready to tackle all that comes our way, who can help but be inspired by the new beginning offered to us by September? There are so many things to look forward to. Golden sunsets viewed through golden leaves. The scent of pies. Apple picking (albeit social-distance apple picking). During the first two weeks of September, the summer wind still lingers, yet with bright crispness. Everything feels sharp, bright, and new. This fall some will stay in the Hamptons year round while others head back to the city. Either choice will be a new adventure for so many. Things have changed a lot since last fall, yet the familiar events we always look forward to will still happen, just in new ways. Everyone who is trying their best at this time is so brave. Wishing everyone a safe fall. With love,
Devorah Rose
Social Life
incredible events happen with...
Specializing In:
Event Production and Design Furniture Rentals • Lighting deccobypartyup.com • partyupproductions.com
631.988.9579 • partyup@partyupproductions.com Over 20 Years Experience
It’s hard to believe that Labor Day weekend has arrived marking the end to the Hamptons summer season. It feels like just yesterday we kicked off Memorial Day weekend. For many of us, the summer flew by faster than usual as we anxiously awaited the easing of COVID-19 restrictions. For others, the season was extended when many homeowners made the Hamptons their primary residence and retreated to their summer getaway location earlier than anticipated. Regardless, every day spent amongst family and friends in the Hamptons is truly a gift, and residents and visitors alike continue to relish the countless activities, the pristine ocean beaches, and the natural beauty of the East End’s landscape. This Labor Day issue we celebrate American businessman and philanthropist James C. Metzger, Founder and CEO of The Whitmore Agency — the leading insurance brokerage and financial services firm on Long Island.
Metzger’s company is known for providing a full range of insurance services including property and casualty insurance, life insurance, health insurance, real estate insurance, estate planning, financial services and a specialized funeral services program. Unfortunately, due to the unprecedented pandemic, many of Metzger’s valued clients, especially those in the restaurant and hospitality industries, have suffered substantial financial losses to their businesses. Additionally, the prominent entrepreneur’s roster of clients includes a large percentage from the funeral industry, which also has been affected by the pandemic. Despite the risk, funeral homes have been extraordinarily busy and are doing their share during COVID-19; these essential workers have repeatedly put not just their own but their family’s health at risk by uninterruptedly providing services to their patrons. The philanthropist admits, “The pandemic has been a whirlwind every step of the way.” Read more about Jim Metzger’s compelling story featured on the cover and found on the pages in this Labor Day issue. As fall is undoubtedly upon us, I am pleased to announce we will be launching an autumn issue exclusively in the Hamptons. As you know, the fall season is one of the most beautiful, magical times of year on the East End bringing cooler temperatures, breathtaking foliage, and wonderful seasonal activities. So, I am looking forward to connecting with you this fall as we continue to enjoy the beautiful lifestyle of this spectacular place, the Hamptons! Warm wishes,
Christine Montanti
Social Life
James C. Metzger, Photography by Don Fitzgibbon
Christine Montanti, Photography by Don Fitzgibbon
LETTER FROM THE SENIOR EDITOR
The Fields Southampton
Bruce Bronster. Peter Cook AIA
THE NEW STANDARD IN LUXURY STONE DESIGN ASSISTANCE . UNPARALLED QUALITY . DIRECT IMPORTER
MARBLE . QUARTZITE . QUARTZ . GRANITE . PORCELAIN “We needed 26 slabs to finish the master bath at a very expensive waterfront home in Southampton. Fame went to Italy to source what we were looking for. When the slabs arrived, they were better than the photos. Magnifico!” — G BRUCE LIFTON, LIFTON GREEN “Fame Luxury Stone supplied us with stunning stone slabs for a luxury residence we recently completed in the Hamptons. From beginning to end, Fame and her team provided an excellent level of service and sourced the highest quality of stone. We look forward to working with her again on our upcoming projects.” — KYLE STOKKERS, STOKKERS & COMPANY
Lifton Green/JBialsky. David Scott Interiors
SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT TODAY 631.237.1113 | FAMELUXURYSTONE.COM | INFO@FAMELUXURYSTONE.COM 103 HAYGROUND ROAD, BUILDING 2, WATER MILL NY
J E W E L RY By Jonathan Valdez
Summer may be coming to an end but that doesn’t mean you can’t take the season’s colors with you. These gorgeous pieces will remind you of the warmer months all year long!
BUCCELLATI 18k Yellow Gold with Chalcedony and Jade $5,400 Buccellati 714 Madison Avenue 212.308.2900 POMELLATO 18k White and Rose Gold with Blue Topaz $4,200 London Jewelers 2 Main Street, East Hampton 631.329.3939
LARKSPUR & HAWK Sterling and White Quartz $5,400 Aerin 7 Newtown Lane, East Hampton 631.527.5517 MELISSA KAYE 18k Yellow Gold with Diamonds and Neon Pink Enamel $2,850 Mayfair Rocks 19 Main Street, East Hampton 631.329.8444 Social Life
S A R A S H A L A . COM
WA T C H E S By Jonathan Valdez
There is something charming about the color grey. Although it is subtle, it can be playful when paired with the right outfit. Embrace the grey and slay!
NOMOS GLASHUTTE Stainless Steel with Leather Strap $2,320 London Jewelers 2 Main Street, East Hampton 631.329.3939
BLANCPAIN Stainless Steel with Alligator Strap $14,900 Blancpain 697 Fifth Avenue 212.396.1735
CHANEL Stainless Steel $5,100 Chanel 737 Madison Avenue 212.535.5505 FRÉDÉRIQUE CONSTANT Stainless Steel with Leather Strap $8.995 London Jewelers 2 Main Street, East Hampton 631.329.3939
Social Life
© 2020 James Martin Signature Vanities, LLC 0420 1859466
Combining style, quality and versatility Over 5,000 combinations
Contract • Residential • Hospitality
jamesmartinvanities.com
SHOPPING By Gregory DelliCarpini Jr. LONDON JEWELERS Need a little jewelry update this summer? London Jewelers is Long Island’s premier jeweler, carrying brand-name designer collections and one-of-a kind handcrafted jewelry pieces. What better way to glitter on the beach than with a new piece of jewelry? The story of London Jewelers spans over 90 years and four generations. Stop by the beautiful shop in East Hampton to find out more on this renowned brand. 2 Main Street, East Hampton
TORY SPORT Tory Burch brought her sleek and sporty look back to East Hampton this summer. This cool shop sells the very latest in high-tech sport fabrics, running goods, dancing clothes, golf, athleisure, and chic sporting goods. Update your workout gear for fall. 47 Newtown Lane, East Hampton
BLOW HAMPTON Blow Hampton (formerly Blow Beauty Bars) is a full-service salon. In addition to great blowouts, cuts and coloring services, and more, you can shop for designer cashmere, jewelry, and art. 2422 Montauk Highway, Bridgehampton
Social Life
SHOPPING
SOUTHAMPTON SHOP LOCAL! SHOPPING IN THE HAMPTONS By Karen Holly Berliner
Shopping local means that more money stays within the Hamptons community. Every dollar spent generates income for the local economy. Grab a mask, be safe and careful and get going! TUTTO BENE LTD stocks a beautiful assortment of elegant women’s wear, from beach wear to cashmere. Jewelry, including pearls, and perfumes are also available. Fall looks are arriving now. 2414 Main Street, 631. 537.3320, tuttobeneltd.com NIBI MTK is known for its new and reworked vintage boho apparel. Here you’ll find a great assortment of dresses, separates, beachwear, accessories. 2450 Montauk Highway, 917.371.3039, nibimtk.com KINNAMAN & RAMAEKERS used to be a conventional antique shop, but now carries fewer antiques, but a host of other interesting items. You’ll find designer costume jewelry (e.g. Chanel and Gucci), Native American jewelry and artifacts, painted signs, American glassware, and other unusual conversation pieces for your home and wardrobe. 2466 Main Street, 631.537.3838 COASTAL HOME is an interior décor store that focuses on beach living. It offers a mix of new and vintage furnishings, custom rugs, accessories and unique art. 2442 Montauk Highway, 631.613.6800, coastalhomeonline.com CITARELLA is a wide-ranging market with butchers and fish mongers onsite. Here you’ll find everything you need, including gourmet items for daily eating as well as entertaining. This shop also sells prepared foods and has catering services. 2209 Montauk Highway, 631.283.6600, citarella.com CARBON38 specializes in athleisure from top designers. Here you’ll find tanks, shorts, leggings, hoodies, bikinis, sweats, sneakers and sporty shoes, and more. 2424 Montauk Highway, 631.919.5444, carbon38.com THE WHITE ROOM GALLERY proudly showcases an eclectic blend of contemporary art, including paintings, photographs, sculptures, and ceramics. Featuring well-known artists and emerging talents as well, they exhibit all year long with a variety of curated shows. 2415 Main Street, 631. 237.1481, thewhiteroom.gallery SocialLifeMagazine.com
White Room Gallery Nelson De La Nuez, First Class Girl, 2020, Mixed Media on Canvas, 69 x 48 in
CHASE EDWARDS GALLERY shows local, national, and international artists, including established and emerging talents. The gallery offers realist and abstract paintings as well as photographs and sculpture. The gallery is also available for special events. 2462 Montauk Highway, 631.604.2204, chaseedwardsgallery.com RJD GALLERY exhibits international artists with a concentration on narrative realism, photorealistic portraiture, surrealism, figurative art, and urban landscape. This gallery features contemporary artists as well as established masters, e.g. Andrew Wyeth, from its RJD Private Collection. 2385 Main Street, 631.725.1161, rjdgallery.com
SHOPPING
ALVIN VALLEY RECLAIMS HIS THRONE By George Wayne Photography by Jason Leavy
S
even years ago, the New York Times was saying this in a headline about the fashion designer Alvin Valley: “The King of Pants Hopes for a Second Reign.” Well, here in 2020 — despite a raging pandemic that has, with everything else, also decimated the whirl of fashion — Alvin Valley has managed to survive and thrive. “Business has never been better,” he whispered in my ear as he sashayed away to entertain his fellow guests. He’d gathered a chic gaggle of friends for a divine, delightfully intimate dinner party. Just the chicest gathering in his tiny back yard of the adorable Bellport cottage he shares with his husband, David McDowell. We dined on delicious Cuban food as we watched Margiela catwalk footage on a huge screen. Present were all the people you are willing to don a mask to mingle and giggle with outdoors. Think low-key Bellport chic in full August groove. Eric Maza, the new style leader at Town & Country, was there and so too the veteran style-scribe Bob Morris. Alvin rounded out his guest list with a sweet sprinkle of his muses: Jessica Stark, sporting a pair of his most fabulous palazzos; Petra Khashoggi was there and her hot, gorgeous date, Danny Baker, was someone I later realized
I have known since he was 17 and sneaking into Café Tabac. The exuberant host, indeed, has a lot to be thankful for. Just like the rich rappers who keep wailing on their one-note dancehall tracks, “I am blessed! I am blessed!’’ Alvin Valley has every reason in the world to be thankful. His business-collapse-drama was at its nadir circa 2006 when his former backer drove the Alvin Valley fashion label into the ground. He lost his trademark and went into fashion exile in Miami for years. His white knight turned out to be the venture capitalist Alex Dulac, who bought back his name and set the foundation for Alvin Valley 2.0. Today, Alvin Valley is enjoying his rebirth to the max. And he’s displaying with admirable agility — the art of the fashion pivot — his charm and elan. He’s just opened his stand-alone boutique in Southampton. ‘‘Right across from the Ralph Lauren store on Jobs Lane. You can’t miss it,’’ he cooed over cocktails. Alvin Valley 42 Jobs Lane, Southampton alvinvalley.com Social Life
IN T RODUCING
Our commitment to innovate, engineer and design for water of tomorrow. And to conserve Earth’s most precious resource while improving how we experience it. Our first pledge is to save one trillion gallons of water by 2030.
M O E N .C O M / M I S S I O N M O E N
F E AT U R I N G N E B I A BY M O E N™
R U N WAY By Gregory DelliCarpini Jr.
Go for Gold Go for the gold this summer! The spring / summer 2020 collections were not about subtlety this year. Gold-drenched looks glistened down the runways all over the globe. From Rick Owens in Paris to Marc Jacobs in New York, designers created solid gold looks that were anything but subtle. Don’t be afraid to rock this attention-grabbing look this season. Match the golden summer sunset and go for a gold dress or suit for a night out on the town. Also, an added bonus of this look is that your Uber driver will never miss you.
Balenciaga, Spring/Summer 2020
Marc Jacobs, Spring/Summer 2020
Rick Owens, Spring/Summer 2020
Area, Spring/Summer 2020 Social Life
Own The AM
™
RISE AND RECOVER AFTER A LATE NIGHT
Drink, Play, Work Responsibly. Available at ReboundAM.com and Amazon.
#ReboundAM
© 2019 ReboundAM. All rights reserved.
ACCESSORIES By Gregory DelliCarpini Jr.
Lime Up Your Life What is the unexpected color of the season? Lime green. While this is a daring look, it is quickly becoming the leading color of late summer into fall. Neon colors have been trending for quite some time now. While the pinks and blues have been around for a couple of years, neon green is a fresh way to rock the ’80s neon trend. Try a bold neon dress and style it with a tonal lime green Versace bag and matching Balenciaga earrings for a standout look. Or for a subtle take on the trend, rock a neutral-colored dress and pair it with a daring pair of lime-colored heels by Amina Muaddi.
Monies Green Barletta Earrings, $130
Versace Green Jungle Vitrus Clutch, $2,350
Valentino, Spring/Summer 2020
Amina Muaddi, Green Lupita Slipper Heels, $565 Social Life
jslidesfootwear.com @jslidesfootwear #jslidestogether
ACCESSORIES By Gregory DelliCarpini Jr.
Gucci Green Geometric Sunglasses, $390
Balenciaga Green Loop Earrings, $495
Christopher Kane, Spring/Summer 2020
Balenciaga, Green Tyrex Sneakers, $995 Social Life
We Service The Tristate Area
DISCOVER HOW GOOD KOMBUCHA CAN BE.
Food Made from the Heart is Food for the Soul
Now, more than ever before
Enjoy a Gourmet Experience in the comfort of your home CHEF MICHAEL USES THE FINEST FRESHEST INGREDIENTS AND HE WILL BRING TO YOU NOT ONLY A MEAL, BUT AN EXPERIENCE!
Our Services Customized menus From prep to service At home dining BBQ Specialty Burgers Events Kosher options
Meet Your Personal Chef “Relax & be Catered to!” ~ Michael Battino
(347) 242-0350 www.MyLittleEdenPrivateChef.com
SHOPPING
THE HOT LYSST By Lyss Stern
Lyss Stern, the CEO and founder of DivaMoms.com — New York’s premier socializing network for moms and moms-to-be — shares her picks for Hamptons moms this month. Instagram @diva_moms
FOR #DIVAMOMS GOLDEN GIRL Auvere, an exclusively high-karat (22k true and 24k pure) handcrafted jewelry line helps people channel love and peace by launching its 22k gold Scribe collection. Auvere’s designer, Caribbean-American Gina Love, introduces the concept of “Love First” in her handwriting, reminding us always to put love first, and “Love is Love” in an eternal, spinning medallion with the letter “O” embedded with pavé diamonds. Not only is the “O” symbolic for infinity, an ongoing loop, but the free-spinning medallion is legible in any direction, no matter how the piece sits. Prices vary, auvere.com RUGGED BEAUTY Carhartt and CORDURA launched the Carhartt cargo series with CORDURA advanced fabrics just in time for fall hikes. The unique collection includes packs and specialized utility bags that feature a hook-n-haul system that easily customizes the pack to your needs; additional attachments include a miniature insulated can cooler or weatherproof utility case. Each pack is made with 500 denier CORDURA ripstop classic fabric and protected with a CORDURA rain-defender water repellent. A medium pack with three-can insulated cooler is $99.99, carhartt.com NAUGHTY AND NICE Ice cream can already feel a bit sinful, but Clementine’s Naughty & Nice Creamery took that idea to the next level. The small-batch micro creamery out of St. Louis has naughty flavors, which contain up to 18% alcohol. They are twists on classic cocktails like the Manhattan,
maple bourbon with salted candied pecans, and old fashioned as well as some more creative flavors like pink champagne sorbet, chocolate cabernet, and tequila chocolate mole. They ship pints of 4 or more nationwide for $15 a pint, clementinescreamery.com MORNING JOE Summer is almost over, which means the days are about to get more hectic, and coffee will be needed. Enter Terra Kaffe’s premier espresso machine, the TK-01. The device is both stunningly designed and user-friendly. With just one touch, users can brew their cappuccino, latte, or espresso drink with coffee beans instead of pods. $775, terrakaffe.com HOT BODY Keep that summer body going into the fall with FitFighter. It’s a strength and conditioning system originally designed for the fire service. FitFighter makes use of its patent-pending steel-hose free weights and an iOS training app. Best yet, a portion of sales sponsor the Stephen Siller Tunnel to Towers Foundation, supporting veterans, first responders, frontline healthcare workers, and their families. A starter set available for $129.99, fitfighter.com Social Life
SHOPPING FANCY FEET LA-based Comrad is the first-ever brand of compression socks that are meant to be seen. The socks have sold out multiple times and amassed waitlists of thousands, and they’re ideal for hitting the trail. How does a pair work? They improve circulation through a graduated compression of 15-25mmHg and are temperature controlled through the design’s high warmth-to-weight ratio. Individual pairs from $19 to $38 and in packs of 3, 4, or 6 pairs, comradsocks.com EYE ON THE PRIZE When you want to spend a little to look like you spent a lot, Eila Chérie is the way to go. All handbags, sunglasses, and watches are designed with modern bold looks. The Mimi sunglasses, in particular, make a statement. Thoughtfully crafted, using only premium materials, you’ll be oozing confidence. Kings need to watch the throne when queens look this good! $48, eilacherie.com MARVELOUS MASKS Rachel Cagner has curated a line of affordable jewelry and accessories mixing timeless pieces and current trends. The hottest item during these surreal times is the mask chain. With multiple styles and custom options available for men, women, and kids, there’s something for everyone. Chains start around $50, rachelcagner.com and Instagram @rachel.cagner SUMMER SKIN You can never have enough sun protection and Dr. Gerald Imber’s ultimate antioxidant boost vitamin C serum is the perfect addition to your skincare, offering hydration and protection from environmental damage. It also helps to improve existing dark spots. $195, youthcorridor.com
SocialLifeMagazine.com
FOR KIDS MIND YOUR MANNERS Mealtime is less of a hassle thanks to the experts at ezpz, the inventor of the self-sealing all-in-one placemat. Now, the brand is tackling utensils to make self-feeding less frustrating for toddlers. Its newest release, the mini utensils, is designed to help toddlers 12+ months learn how to eat with a spoon (scooping) and fork (piercing). Learning to self-feed is an important developmental milestone that helps toddlers tune in to natural hunger cues and develop fine motor skills. $15.99, ezpzfun.com SLEEPY TIME Whether you’re prepping for some future travel or a sleepover, you’ll want to get your hands on Regalo’s My Cot portable toddler bed and Pals sheet sets. The bed is portable and compact, creating a comfortable place for your toddler to rest anywhere. And the cute sheet and pillow create a welcoming sleep environment. It’s everything you need to bring the comforts of home on the road. $39.99, regalo-baby.com ARTS AND CRAFTS The only thing worse than a road trip potty break is screaming children in the back. Luckily, Yoobi, the school supply company, has got you covered. Adorable sticker books and pencil organizers that can be used to hold everything from toys and electronics to travel documents. Yoobi also sells easy-rip individual hand sanitizers, perfect to keep in seat pockets. yoobi.com NAILED IT Bond with your little one over a manicure. Little Lady premium nail polish is available in a spectrum of bright colors and tantalizing scents. Developed by the cosmetic manufacturing expert and mompreneur Arda Tashdjian, Little Lady allows parents to pamper their kids safely since the products are toxin-free, safe for sensitive skin, vegan, and cruelty-free. Plus, it’s topped with a childsized wearable pink or blue bow ring. $12, littleladyproducts.com
H E A LT H & B E AU T Y
BEAUTY By Jeanette Zinno
Repair Sun Damage After spending many treasured days in the summer sun, it’s inevitable that you may have some skin damage. Whether that comes in the form of dark spots, wrinkles, or simply dehydrated skin, here are some potent products to help you revive your skin.
NIGHT CREAM The Youth Corridor RetinUltimate Transforming Gel targets all side effects of too much sun exposure — fine lines and wrinkles, discoloration, and dehydration. It contains a patented retinoid derivative and encourages skin rejuvenation when used nightly. youthcorridor.com, $450 LASER TIME The dpl II is a wrinkle-reduction device that helps to reduce visible signs of aging — including wrinkles, fine lines, and crow’s feet. The at-home device uses powerful LED light to penetrate the skin, stimulating collagen and cellular regeneration. revivelighttherapy.com, $349 MASKING Give your skin a treatment for dehydration with the Kat Burki Vital Hydration Blast. This creamy mask utilizes a potent pro-Bvitamin complex as well as strengthening neuropeptides to combat lackluster skin. katburki.com, $140 POTENT SERUM Lightweight and packed with powerful peptides, the Kate Somerville Bio-Mimicking Peptides Serum works over time to increase firmness and elasticity, diminish fine lines and wrinkles, and tighten skin. katesomerville.com, $98
Social Life
H E A LT H & B E AU T Y
Manhattan Spa Guide The pandemic has hit the spa industry hard, but with limited spa menus, health and safety protocols, and new hours, Manhattan spas are persevering. Here are a few of our favorite New York City spas that have reopened to support and ease you into the fall season with ultimate relaxation.
Shibui Spa, 377 Greenwich Street
Haven Spa, 250 Mercer Street
Shibui Spa, in The Greenwich Hotel, has found the perfect balance between the traditional and the modern and between nature and city. When you enter Shibui, you are embraced by wood, water, and stone — much of it with a storied past — and the spa’s treatments are rooted in the same simplicity and reverence for nature. The products they use are plant-based and, whenever possible, organic. Their practitioners, who are experts in ancient as well as contemporary healing techniques, approach their craft as art. thegreenwichhotel.com | 646.203.0045
Once you step into Haven Spa, you won’t be able to leave. It’s easily the most luxurious Downtown spa with an approachable vibe and treatments that include massages, facials, body treatments, waxing, nails, and more. Even better is the quality and effectiveness of their treatments, like a newer addition to their menu, the Gua Sha facial. The traditional Chinese treatment includes the use of a small jade board to gently massage specific energy points along the face, which helps to release toxins and promote lymphatic drainage. havenspa.nyc | 212.343.3515
Aire Ancient Baths, 88 Franklin Street
Joanna Vargas, 501 Fifth Avenue
In the midst of the bustle and fast-paced rhythm of downtown, right in the heart of TriBeCa, is an oasis of tranquility exclusively designed to balance mind and body. Located at a restored historical building, originally an 1883 textile factory, the AIRE experience consists of an unforgettable journey through sensations across the various baths. Water at different temperatures will transport you to the ancient times of the Roman, Greek, and Ottoman traditions. beaire.com | 646.503.1910
The spa is conveniently located directly across from the New York City Public Library at Bryant Park. Covering an expansive 14,000 square feet of a historic building, the day spa is a tranquil escape. The well-appointed, private treatment rooms feature fine art from their clients and Joanna’s personal collection. Clients can expect to experience true transformation through highly effective, non-invasive treatments customized to your skin. joannavargas.com | 212.949.2350
SocialLifeMagazine.com
H E A LT H & B E AU T Y
AWARD-WINNING CELEBRITY PLASTIC SURGEON
DR . STEPHEN T. GREENBERG By Linda Gray
T
he award-winning celebrity plastic surgeon Dr. Stephen T. Greenberg has been on the forefront of cosmetic plastic surgery for over twenty-seven years. His brand specializes in cutting-edge cosmetic solutions for clientele from Park Avenue to Southampton as well as Boca Raton, Florida. “Whether you are my neighbor on the East End or in the city, I want you to be as comfortable and relaxed as possible. From our first meeting to the weeks following surgery, I want each patient to be happy with their full experience,” states Dr. Greenberg. His accredited state-of-the-art luxury locations include modern ambulatory surgical centers, injection lounges, medspa treatment and private consultation rooms — all well-appointed with comfortable and elegant furnishings. A leader in cosmetic surgery, he meets the needs of all patients from today’s top stars to the soccer mom next door. Patients travel from across the globe to see Dr. Greenberg, who has literally performed thousands of procedures ranging from
breast augmentation, breast reduction, and breast lifts to tummy tucks, liposuction, facelifts, eyelid lifts, neck lifts, full body lifts, thigh lifts, vaginal rejuvenation, rhinoplasty, and earlobe surgery. A proponent of combining the use of high-tech non-surgical devices with surgical procedures, Dr. Greenberg’s micro-mini, mini, and plasma face lifts involve tightening excess skin and muscle while lifting the jowl and neck with minimal downtime. His bespoke plasma lift includes a component that provides even greater skin retraction as well as complete skin resurfacing using radiofrequency energy and inert helium gas. Dr. Greenberg has made hiding at home a thing of the past; his patients are restaurant ready in a matter of days. Dr. Greenberg pioneered rapid-recovery procedures by developing advanced proprietary surgical techniques. His 24-Hour Breast Augmentation System has patients back to daily activities the very next day. “Patients need and want to resume normal activities immediately following surgery. Many people simply do not have time for downtime. This reality has given me the inspiration to offer a true rapid-recovery option to my patients,” explains Dr. Greenberg. Minimal swelling and bruising coupled with a notably decreased recovery time have resulted in proven patient satisfaction. Dr. Greenberg recognizes the importance of addressing each person’s unique requirements, goals, and objectives, and he implements an overall plan (inclusive of diet and exercise), to help achieve both a beautiful look and realistic result. Dr. Greenberg is in high demand for television appearances to discuss the latest trends in the cosmetic world. He has recently been featured on Fox 5 WNYW Good Day New York and WABC News as well as in Newsday, the New York Post, Hamptons Magazine, In Touch, and Star Magazine. At the apex of his craft, Dr. Greenberg is something of a legend. He is currently writing his second book as a follow up to A Little Nip, A Little Tuck. His weekly radio show Nip Tuck Saturdays with Dr. Stephen T. Greenberg garners thousands of listeners on Saturdays from noon to 1 p.m. on 77WABC. He just released his newest trademarked products: Plastic Surgeon’s Ultimate Scar Gel, with patented time-release technology clinically proven to reduce the appearance of old and new scars as well as stretch marks and Cosmetic Surgeon in a Jar, a customcurated skincare line with a devout following for its antioxidants and peptides that smooth skin, enhance elasticity, and provide a Botox-like lift to the face and eye areas. Social Life
H E A LT H & B E AU T Y
He has coined his newest and wildly popular combination procedure, the Modern Mommy Makeover, which is the perfect combination of breast augmentation (with or without a breast lift), abdominoplasty (with or without liposuction), and labiaplasty (with or without laser vaginal rejuvenation) to fully restore a woman’s body after the fluctuations associated with pregnancy and childbirth. Dr. Greenberg was also one of the first to introduce Emsculpt as the newest non-invasive bodysculpting procedure designed to effectively reduce excess fat, tone muscle, and rapidly shrink inches. Many times, Dr. Greenberg recommends combining Emsculpt with CoolSculpting to non-surgically target stubborn areas of fat resistant to diet and exercise and to enhance surgical results even further. SocialLifeMagazine.com
Dr. Greenberg’s unique integrated approach encompasses the proper mix of surgical and non-surgical solutions for each patient to ensure a successful improvement in appearance with a significant reduction to signs of aging. Many times, small adjustments lead to big results. This is the perfect time to get back into your ideal shape. Remember, the correct treatment regimen can help create the ideal you. Dr. Greenberg provides an exceptional experience in a beautiful, safe, caring, and supportive environment. With him in all the right places, you will turn all the right faces! Join Dr. Greenberg for a complimentary consultation at his Southampton, Manhattan, Woodbury, Smithtown, or Boca Raton locations. Call 631.287.4999 or visit greenbergcosmeticsurgery.com.
H E A LT H & B E AU T Y
DEVON LEVESQUE HEALTH AND WELLNESS EXPERT By Rodney Sparrow THE BEAR CRAWL & NYC MARATHON When the 50th annual NYC Marathon was canceled due to Covid-19, Devon Levesque, the 28-year-old health and wellness entrepreneur and social media influencer, naturally decided to go all in. “I have decided to bear crawl the New York City Marathon on November 1st,” Devon says. “That’s 26.2 miles on all fours. I’ve never done something quite like this.” He may not have done anything quite like adapting a core-destroying endurance workout into a marathon — “It’s borderline impossible,” he admits. But in his relatively short career, Levesque has already accomplished the impossible. Since dropping a football scholarship at Long Island University, getting into the nightlife scene, opening his own restaurant, and developing a successful meal prep and personal training start-up, he has become one of the most looked-to health and wellness experts in the industry. THE BUSINESS SIDE OF LEVESQUE His Instagram has more than 400,000 followers. He’s sponsored by the fitness-clothing brand Gymshark. He’s an investor partner at Super Coffee, a workout-boosting mix of caffeine and protein. He’s also an equity partner at the ultra-exclusive gym brand Performix House, which has celebrity members, a new app (Powered), and a soon-to-open second location in Los Angeles. His Devon Levesque Daily. His app, DLD, helps a growing online community “take control” of their lives “using fitness as a foundation.” Even the Starwood Capital Group billionaire Barry Sternlicht got in on the action with Devon’s lifestyle. He tapped Levesque to run the wellness programing at his chic 1 Hotel brand. “Barry is one of my closest friends,” says Levesque. “We have the same vision on health and wellness. I have my hands in a lot of businesses but I stay in my lane. I don’t want to be the CEO of a company. I like to advise from a creative and branding aspect.”
ARM-WRESTLING & FITOPS Levesque says that his interest in fitness goes back to the very beginning. His grandfather and father were both professional weight lifters and his mother was a professional arm wrestler. “I would compete in arm wrestling competitions when I was 12,” the New London, New Hampshire, native says. “Anytime my buddies came over to my house when I was a kid, they would shake her hand and be like, ‘Why is your mom’s grip so strong?” But when Levesque was 16, his father committed suicide. His need to push himself, to take life to the next level, even his marathon bear-crawl — which will raise awareness for mental health and benefit FitOps, a program that trains veterans as fitness instructors, helping them to adjust to civilian life — is motivated by that tragedy. “I told myself that this year I wanted to bring awareness to something that has really affected me,” he says. “Mental health is one of the big things in life people don’t talk about. But if they don’t talk about it, it’s like it doesn’t exist. When you talk about things you have gone through, it helps open up your mind, and takes the weight off your back.” Even if back flipping between tire jumps is just another day in the gym for Levesque, he says that his goal isn’t to push the industry to extremes. He sees himself as a front man, an advisor, and an evangelical for the benefits anyone can unlock by adopting a healthy lifestyle. “This year people have been able to take a step back from work and really focus on their health,” he says. “People have the time to really understand why breathing is important and why taking care of their body and sweating every day and going into the sauna is important. They are spending less on their Gucci purse or their Gucci loafers or that Rolex that they really don’t need, and they are investing more into their wellness. Self-care, I think, is becoming a top priority for people during Covid. Health is wealth nowadays and my job is to spread the word.” Devon Levesque devonlevesque.com Social Life
Endless Possibilities
Celebrity Plastic Surgeon and Expert Injector* Sarah Donohue, PA-C
Stephen T. Greenberg, M.D., F.A.C.S. Jennifer Stark, D.O.
Stephanie A. Cooper, M.D.
Award Winning Celebrity Plastic Surgeon Dr. Stephen T. Greenberg is voted Top Doctor*, has his own Radio Shows, wrote the Book on Cosmetic Surgery and has been featured on
Join Us For Your Complimentary Virtual or In-Person Surgical or Injection Consultation SOUTHAMPTON
631.287.4999
NOT AN ACTUAL PATIENT. *BY NEW BEAUTY.
WOODBURY
516.364.4200
SMITHTOWN
631.287.4999
MANHATTAN
212.319.4999
www.GreenbergCosmeticSurgery.com
BOCA RATON
561.237.5302
H E A LT H & B E AU T Y
THE MIRACLE MILKER & MORE NUTRAMILK MAKES EATING HEALTHIER SIMPLE AS 1-2-3 By Hannah Katz
Carolyn Chen
S
ocial Life editors take health and wellness seriously. Some of us are vegan and others just prefer clean eating. I’ve been drinking non-dairy milk for a long time. And for a long time, I’ve been vexed by the unpronounceable ingredients found in most non-dairy milks. I’d scour the shelves at Whole Foods or the health food store for a pure non-dairy milk, to no avail. I could have made it myself by hand with a grinder and strainer, but it required a ton of time, including an exorbitant amount of time soaking the nuts. Then our editorial team stumbled upon what I call the “miracle milker and more.” NutraMilk is the easiest to use machine for making plantbased milks and butters in minutes. And it doesn’t just make milks. It also makes butters, smoothies, salad dressings, dips, desserts, and so much more — a recipe book with more than 300 pages comes with the machine. It’s really made my non-dairy dreams come true. NutraMilk’s patented technology can make up to two liters of plant-based milk favorites in less than 12 minutes, compared to the hours or days it takes using other methods. It’s also dishwasher safe (no scrubbing by hand!). We sat down with Carolyn Chen, CEO and president of NutraMilk, to learn more about how this miracle milker came to life.
Photo by Jordan Braun
What is the story behind how NutraMilk came to the market? Six years ago we started to develop the NutraMilk to create a machine for coffee shops, seeing as our sister brand provided machines for the specialty coffee industry. We worked closely with the industrial design department of Metropolitan State University of Denver to bring this project to life. Four of the students who worked on the final design were actually included in the patent for the NutraMilk. Although we did not originally set out to bring the NutraMilk onto the market, we foresaw the need for an innovative appliance that could make fresh nut milk and butter in the process. What are the benefits of freshly made nut milks? There are so many benefits to making your own homemade plantbased milks. For starters, making your own milks ensures that they are free from any kind of additives or preservatives. You have complete control of what is going in your milk; therefore, your body. Having complete control over the integrity of your milk allows you to determine flavor, texture, and sweetness. You will find that homemade alternative milks don’t just taste better, but are better for you, as they are very nutrient dense. Social Life
H E A LT H & B E AU T Y
Photo by Jordan Braun
Most nut milk machines require a lot more time to make milk. What’s the secret function that makes these delicious milks in minutes? The NutraMilk is unlike any other appliance on the market. Its 1800 RPM motor breaks down nuts to their cellular level, releasing the enzymes in a matter of minutes, eliminating the need for soaking while filtering skins with phytic acid in the process. And its motorized rotating wiper arms continuously push down ingredients so that you never have to stop and do so manually. When using the NutraMilk, the nuts or seeds are processed into a smooth butter, resulting in very fine particles. When these particles are mixed and emulsified with water, the solution goes through a fine, 100-mesh [100 openings per square inch] system that filters out larger particles, leaving the hull behind and resulting in a very finely filtered, smooth alternative milk. How is the machine different from traditional methods of making nut milk? Traditional methods of making nut milk require a lot of time and different equipment. The NutraMilk eliminates the need for overSocialLifeMagazine.com
night soaking, heat, straining, and rinsing. It’s quick and easy to use for delicious alternative milk every time! What can NutraMilk make other than milks? Apart from milk, you can make tasty butters, dips, spreads, smoothies, soups, sauces, and even desserts. Does it only process nuts? What about seeds or grains? With the NutraMilk you can use virtually any nut, seed, legume, or grain. Do you have a favorite milk or butter? You can’t go wrong with homemade Nutella and oat milk. Any favorite recipes? Grilled vegetable fajitas with cashew green sauce followed by some Dole whip nice cream. NutraMilk thenutramilk.com
H E A LT H & B E AU T Y
SOWING SEEDS By L. A. Dawson
L.A. Dawson is the author of articles, self-help books, and novels. As a certified health and life coach, she is also an inspirational speaker and resides with four happy canine friends. @authorladawson | authorladawson.com | liveandheal.com
B
eautiful flowers planted with love are a reminder of tomorrow. Watching them come back year after year reminds us of the continuity of life. The soil that feeds them represents preparation that will give a great floral or vegetable yield. I believe most gardeners would tell you that the time they spent caring for a garden was born from joy. While filming in my neighbor’s garden, I was reminded of quieter times when we could slip away to enjoy sweet tea and lemon cookies. This was a time where we cared for ourselves with love and devoted time to our friends. The planting assured a garden to enjoy the following year, and spending time with our dear friends sowed seeds for the friendship to evolve. As we go through a difficult time in history, perhaps it would help us to remember the simpler times. Many people began to grow seeds in their homes for the spring and summer of 2020. It gave some control to an uncontrollable situation. Not only does the fragrant colorful garden feed friendships and lovely memories, but it feeds our body. While preparing for tomorrow has value, it is paramount to remember the moments of today. Tomorrow is ahead of you, yesterday is gone. Today there are still colorful tasty moments to savor. I have made a personal commitment to quiet the noise and fill in with joy. Join me on the veranda with sweet tea and lemon cookies. This is a place where friends are kind to one another and lift each other up with positivity. It is a place where fireflies light up at the mention of hope and puppies sit at your feet, awaiting loving caresses. There are so many fragrant flowers that you delight in identifying them! Here’s the best part: You can request a mint julep. I cannot wait to see you on the veranda. Be sure to bring a smile. Live and Heal Health and Life Coaching liveandheal.com Instagram and Facebook @authorladawson Social Life
H E A LT H & B E AU T Y
MIND BODY SPIRIT IMMUNITY L. A. Dawson
S
elf-care is paramount in my life. Eating well and exercising daily was ingrained in me by my athletic father. I learned that a strong immune system has always been key to a healthy body, but the protocols change as research changes. It can be daunting to keep up with the information. Getting health and life coaching credentials helped me sift through the endless material. As I progressed through vegetarianism and back, I realized the health of my immune response would be based on my individual body and its overall gut health. About 75% of our immune system resides in our digestive tract, aka gut. To improve your immune system, the first step is to assess your gut health. Keep a journal of food sensitivities and eliminate what does not work. You can try to rotate them back in, but carefully, because the goal is to have good digestion without irritation. Two foods that assist in excellent gut health are raw turmeric and blueberries. If you cannot tolerate the bitterness of raw turmeric, buy capsules. Blueberries have natural sugar, so I enjoy them only three times a week. Too much sugar sets off an inflammatory response in the body, which ultimately can cause disease. Eat the rainbow! Fruits and vegetables feed all the senses while improving immunity and our souls. The mind, body, spirit connection is ever-present as we feed our bodies healthily. Making a conscious decision to treat our bodies with respect and love, cooking food that is healthy, and eating with positive intentions is no longer considered “out there” thinking. Purposefully engaging your brain improves the outcome. Get your hands dirty in a garden. Certain microbes in dirt can help our immune system fight a virus or bacteria. Gardening makes you feel part of something bigger. Research shows it can lift depression, which ultimately builds immunity. Also, while gardening in the sun, you receive a dose of vitamin D, which energizes infection-fighting cells. Vitamins and supplements absolutely can help boost immunity. Personally, I believe we should take them on an intermittent schedule. Typically, I do three months on, two weeks off. However, during Covid-19, I have taken days off only every few months. I take supplements suggested to me by a nutritionist who SocialLifeMagazine.com
knows I had neurological Lyme disease. I also do research on each supplement that I add to make sure I am not taking toxic amounts. This is important because everyone reacts differently. Get to know your body and gut intimately. When you do, you gain valuable knowledge about what your body needs. Also, your body can develop sudden allergic reactions or sensitivities even if you have taken a vitamin regularly. Before you take any supplement, check with your doctor to be sure it doesn’t conflict with medication you take, and that it is safe for you. It can be challenging to understand what your body needs, but putting the time in, will give you lifelong benefits. While spas and facials are fun and may make your face glow . . . a healthy immune system makes you shine from within, radiating excellent health. Join me . . . choose health! Live and Heal Health and Life Coaching liveandheal.com Instagram and Facebook @authorladawson
H E A LT H & B E AU T Y
TOP 5 NO-RECOVERY PROCEDURES TO LOOK GOOD ON ZOOM . . . AND EVEN PREVENT AGING! By Frances Gormley
D
r. Anna Avaliani is an award-winning Park Avenue physician renowned for her non-invasive cosmetic procedures. In the new normal of working from home, Zoom keeps professional careers in motion. But Zoom is also the great revealer of cosmetic flaws. Lines, wrinkles, sags, hollows, double chin, uneven pigment. These problems are even more obvious on Zoom than in person. Dr. Avaliani’s practice is thriving with a clientele who want to look great in person and on screen. Below are five FDA-approved procedures that have become particularly popular in her high-tech (and beautiful) office.
4
Non-surgical Face Lift — NovaThreads are USA-made medical-grade threads that are absorbable over time. They provide both an instant lift and a time-released lift as new collagen is created. The effect can last close to two years. Dr. Avaliani keeps on top of this technology, which includes an assortment of threads, including the latest Barb5.
5
High-Tech Neck Treatment — The combination of microneedling and RF (radio frequency using the Genius RF device) and microbotox injections are easy, painless treatments for a more youthful neck. Dr. Avaliani believes the neck is an oftentimes forgotten body part that is as visible as the face and should be considered as important.
1
Liquid Facelift with Facial Harmonization — A unique blend of select dermal fillers, collagen stimulants, and neuromodulators for a well-rested, lifted, and smoother face. Instantly eliminate tired eyes or eye bags. Totally non-invasive, half-hour procedure.
Dr. Avaliani is supremely interested in her patients’ comfort and recovery. She researches and trains in the latest advances and techniques for devices and products. She uses the thinnest cannulas possible, for comfort and natural results. Patients are offered special numbing cream (which also minimizes bruising), or a whiff of ProNox (laughing gas) Double-Chin Reduction — Gained for a totally painless and happy experience. As part of Anna Avaliani, M.D. the quarantine 15? Had another birthday? Dr. Avaliani’s careful and cautious approach, she makes Dr. Avaliani can choose from her array of options for the best and use of AccuVein, a special light that detects exactly where she needs most natural results possible. Dr. Avaliani is a top expert both in to avoid a blood vessel to prevent bruising from an injectable. CoolSculpting and SculpSure, and is highly skilled in using their reDr. Avaliani offers contactless check-in and check-out, and the spective special applicators for the under-chin area. She is also highlatest in payment options, including cryptocurrency. You can have ly experienced in Kybella, a relatively new injectable that melts away your choice of an in-office or virtual consultation. Her warm and fat. The best option is totally dependent on a careful and thoughtful caring personality, impeccable credentials, and deep expertise can consultation. offer you the best experience and most natural results.
Photography by Marsin Mogielski
2
3
Tighter Skin — Ultherapy is the non-invasive, gold standard skin treatment. It promotes new collagen and tightens skin all over the face (or whole body). It can create an amazing open-eye look and lift a droopy mouth. SocialLifeMagazine.com
Anna Avaliani, M.D. 30 East 60th Street, Suite 1100 212.673.8888 | dravaliani.com Instagram @dr.annaavaliani
H E A LT H & B E AU T Y
MOVE AND MEDITATE WITH
MELISSA WOOD TEPPERBERG By Devorah Rose
I also end every workout with either a mini meditation or words of support for your individual practice. Reminding you to breathe in the gratitude for the ability to move your body shifts your consciousness towards being more kind to yourself when you look in the mirror. My goal is to leave you floating and coming back to that feeling in some way, every day.
Photography by Sarah Orbanic
M
elissa Wood Tepperberg is a positive motivational force that has helped energize and inspire so many on their health journey. Whether you follow her on Instagram or routinely work out with her, you know how Melissa uniquely sparks you to move and meditate, and she does this for everyone whose life she touches. If quarantining has turned you into a dedicated couch potato, perhaps Melissa’s words below will reignite your joie de movement! The Melissa Wood Health method isn’t just about building a desired body, it’s about building a better relationship with ourselves. How do you communicate and teach that philosophy in your classes? I try to communicate this in every single flow I share, not to mention anything I put out in the world, because I believe in this to the core. I start by acknowledging that you are showing up for yourself just by being here. My role is to shift your focus to how you feel within when you show up and do this work.
Reaching fitness and nutrition goals is a daily effort that many struggle to achieve. What would you say is the most helpful advice you can give to help people change their habits and achieve their goals? The most helpful advice I could give is to first take a deep hard look within and dive into how you live your life. Don’t just look at the foods you’re putting in your body, but also the thoughts you’re thinking throughout the day, the people you have in your life, and where you spend most of your energy. Ask yourself if these choices lift you up or pull you down. Being honest and real with yourself is a big first step. That, and a consistent meditation practice, awakened my consciousness on a whole new level — guiding me towards listening to my intuition and becoming very aware of the things in my life I never looked at twice. I believe it all starts with strengthening your mind so that you can see things through a clear lens. As a businesswoman, wife, and mother living in busy NYC and the Hamptons, you surely often need space to clear your head and re-center yourself. How do you reconnect with yourself ? The one thing that connects me with myself more than anything is my commitment to my meditation and movement practice. The best thing about my practice is that you can do this anytime, anywhere. Literally. To me, it’s not about the space that I’m physically surrounded by — it’s about creating that mental space within to come back to everything that grounds me no matter where I am. What is your advice for women trying to achieve career goals while raising a family? I am actually not a goal-oriented person. I focus more on moving Social Life
H E A LT H & B E AU T Y
You speak openly about having struggled with severe anxiety, painful cystic acne, and an eating disorder, all while navigating the cutthroat modeling industry in NY. You bravely share experiences that others may not feel comfortable sharing publicly due to fear of judgment. How have you been able to achieve your fearlessness? The one thing that helps me push through the fear is knowing that sharing my story can help someone else through their healing journey. It’s what keeps me coming back to cracking myself wide open, even while criticism can be attached to sharing your voice. I choose to focus on all the good . . . and helping people is far more important to me than getting bogged down by negative opinions along the way. What are you most looking forward to in the upcoming months? OMG, I have some really amazing things in store that I’ve always wanted to do. But in all honesty, I’m working the hardest at staying present with what’s right in front of me through it all. It’s easy to keep looking towards the next best thing, but slowing down and taking it all in makes me feel so content with each stage in my life. Photography by Michelle Rose
towards all of the things that light me up and give me this feeling of joy and purpose. When you shift your energy towards the things that naturally make you happy, it becomes so much less about the force of making things happen and connects you to the flow of everything that feels good for you. This is the place where I believe you attract all that’s meant to come your way, organically. For me personally, as soon as I had children, it ignited this passion within me to dig deeper within to find what made me really happy so that I could be the best version of myself for them. This idea of joy lived through everything I do, especially my role as a mother and wife. What would you advise people who struggle with low energy, especially now that it’s so hard to get out and about? Do you have any nutritional or exercise hacks to up energy? I’m such a creature of habit and swear by following a solid routine in the a.m. to help jump-start your day and your energy levels. I start with a warm water with lemon and a probiotic, followed by an oat milk latte and a banana. After the craziness of the morning settles, I make the whole family a green juice, which typically consists of cucumber, celery, lemon, and ginger. The first second I get to myself I meditate and then move my body, i.e., I film a flow for my members. After I move, I am ready to fuel. My go-to is avocado toast — 2 or 3 pieces, as much as I need that day. I do not believe in counting calories or monitoring your food intake. I believe in listening to your body and what feels best for you. SocialLifeMagazine.com
melissawoodhealth.com Instagram @melissawoodhealth
Photography by Sarah Orbanic
H E A LT H & B E AU T Y
10 SUGGESTIONS FOR GETTING BETTER SLEEP By Kristy Rao
G
iven the stress of this global pandemic, a lack of sleep is becoming more and more common. However, sleep is critical to your physical and mental health as well as for the proper functioning of your immune system. Getting the right amount of sleep gives your body time to repair and can help greatly with alleviating depression and anxiety. Whether you had sleeping trouble before Covid-19 or it’s a recent development, here are some steps that you can take that will improve your sleep quality. Cut down on screen time! Do not turn on your TV or look at your computer if you can’t sleep. The blue light from these screens can delay the release of melatonin, which helps you sleep, and interfere with your circadian rhythm. Consider a magnesium deficiency. An estimated 50% of Americans have depleted magnesium stores. Magnesium helps with sleep by helping to relax muscles throughout the body. Eat magnesium-rich foods, such as almonds, black beans, avocados, whole grains, shellfish, bananas, kiwi, pumpkin seeds, Swiss chard, kale and my favorite, dark chocolate (just not before bed). Stop eating at least three hours before bedtime. During sleep, your body works to repairs muscles, organs, and other cells. But, if it’s busy digesting a huge meal, your body won’t have the time it needs for this important repair. Minimize or avoid stimulants. Avoid drinking alcohol within three hours of bedtime. Also, avoid caffeine after 2 p.m. or noon if you’re particularly sensitive to caffeine. Be sure to read labels! Establish an evening herbal tea habit. I suggest chamomile, lemon balm, or passion flower to support relaxation and sleep onset. Avoid anxiety-provoking activities close to bedtime. This includes watching the news, reading anything negative, paying bills, and checking financial reports or the stock market before bedtime. Wind down before you head to bed. Try cutting out screen time an hour before bed and taking a relaxing bath. Take a hot
salt/soda aromatherapy bath. It will raise your body temperature, which helps induce sleep. It also relaxes muscles and reduces tension. Try adding 1 or 2 cups of Epson salt (magnesium sulfate absorbed through the skin is very relaxing), ½ to 1 cup baking soda (sodium bicarbonate is alkalizing to a stressed out acidic body), and 10 drops of lavender oil (helps lower cortisol levels). Reserve your bed for sleep only. Do you ever feel sleepy on the couch but then are wide awake when you go to bed? When you spend time in bed awake and frustrated, your body may link bed with being awake and frustrated. Chronic insomnia can develop as a result of this negative association. When you use your bed for only sleep, you will positively associate it with sleeping. Avoid sleeping near electromagnetic fields. Have your head at least 8 feet away from clock radios, stereos, cell phones, computers, and monitors. TriField is one brand of meter for testing an electromagnetic field in your home. Invest in a high-quality mattress and bedding. If you aren’t comfortable, you aren’t going to sleep well. Kristy Rao kristyraohealth.com Social Life
TOP 1% COOLSCULPTING CLINIC NATIONWIDE
800 757 40 26 www.trifectamedspanyc.com
H E A LT H & B E AU T Y
ANGELO DAVID WHY YOU HAVE THIN HAIR & WHAT TO DO ABOUT IT By Ann Grenier
P
eruse through Instagram long enough and you are sure to observe your feed graced with pictures of women sporting long, outrageously thick or highly-pigmented hair. Hair has always been a significant element of style and self-expression, but the outrageous, over-the-top looks have become more mainstream than ever thanks to the growing supply of faux hair, hair color technology, and celebrities setting trends that throw convention or achievability out the window. The result? More women — and men — feel that their natural hair isn’t growing as long or as thick as they’d like it to, and are turning to places like Angelo David Salon to get answers and find solutions. Over the last few years, Angelo David Pisacreta, the owner and creative director of Angelo David Salon, has seen a steady increase in young women coming in for consultations to discuss their thinning hair. Despite the trend for thick luscious locks, the reality is, thinning hair and hair loss is a growing concern for good reason. Forty percent of women have visible hair loss by the time they reach age 40, according to the American Academy of Dermatology. Two-thirds of men will begin to see hair loss by age 35, according to the American Hair Loss Association, and after 50, 85% of men and 50% of women will experience some form of pattern hair loss. So, what’s causing this trend to rise, and what can we do about it? This is where Angelo comes in. Hair loss and thinning hair has been his specialty for over 25 years, as he grew up around hair his whole life. His father, Carmine, was a pioneer in men’s hair styling, and taught Angelo how to make toupees and wigs.
When Angelo opened his salon, which now lives on Madison Avenue, he created a space for women and men to come in and speak candidly about their hair issues in a private consultation room, and he could make a custom wig or hair piece to exactly match a client’s natural hair. Angelo and his team can create fully customized wigs, couture hair extensions, hairpieces, toppers, clip-in extensions, ponytails, fillers, or even bangs. Part of what makes Angelo David Salon special is The Couture Hair Boutique, which displays samples of all the hair additions right on the salon floor. The Couture Hair Boutique is an interactive experience for clients, who can take the hair off the shelf and touch and feel the hair for themselves. When women understand that the celebrities they see on TV and on the internet with thick long hair are wearing additions like those offered at Angelo David Salon, it changes the way they feel about it. Couture hair is a tool to alter your hairstyle instantly, without having to wait for your own hair to grow out. “Let’s say you want bangs, but you don’t want to Social Life
H E A LT H & B E AU T Y
cut your hair. You can choose a clip-on “I wanted to create a product Hair Detox includes specially forbang from the Couture Hair Boutique. mulated stress-matrix and detoxthat would tackle the root matrix blends to reduce physiological Then we color, highlight, and trim it for a custom-blended match. We attach your causes of inflammation and stress in the body, reduce inflammabang, and there you go,” says Angelo. stress, specifically because tion, and to gently detoxify hair from Angelo has earned a reputation as the inside out. The key ingredients they are the two main causes the Vera Wang of couture hair, but he does also include well-known hair vitamins so much more than that. Women are of- of hair loss and thinning hair.” like biotin and keratin, vitamin B6 and ten brought to tears when they see their B12, folate, zinc, and more. ANGELO DAVID new hair for the first time. Their enAngelo calls this not just a hair suptire self-image changes instantly, especially for clients strugplement, but a lifestyle supplement, because it makes you feel gling with hair loss conditions like alopecia, or male-pattern better in general, and should be taken for daily maintenance of baldness. overall health. Over the years, his clients often asked what they can do to So, if you are feeling stressed about your thinning hair, help their hair grow naturally, and Angelo developed his own you’ll want to change that immediately. Start by booking a conhair revival supplement to address that very question. sultation with Angelo and his team, and be mindful of lifestyle “People ask me all the time, ‘Angelo, what vitamins should I factors that can contribute to stress and inflammation. be taking for my hair?’ The problem is, vitamins are only one Other ways to volumize your hair include using the right piece of the puzzle,” says Angelo. products. Salon-grade volumizing shampoo, conditioner, If you have a stressful lifestyle, or live in a large polluted leave-in treatments, and styling products can help hair feel city, your body is in a state of stress. Stress causes inflammaand look thicker (VOL shampoo, conditioner, and masque are tion. Inflammation can manifest into a host of issues. You can available at Angelo David Salon). experience breakouts, hair loss or weak hair in general, weight To learn more about Angelo David Salon or to book an fluctuations, and many other ailments that people seek only appointment, head to angelodavid.com. surface-level solutions to. “I wanted to create a product that would tackle the root Angelo David Salon causes of inflammation and stress, specifically because they 420 Madison Avenue, 2nd Floor are the two main causes of hair loss and thinning hair.” 212.402.1347 SocialLifeMagazine.com
H E A LT H & B E AU T Y
CAULIFLOWER ALFREDO FETTUCCINI RECIPE AN ALTERNATIVE TO DAIRY By Liana Werner-Gray
D
airy is a sensitive subject for many. Incorporating dairy in your diet is up to you, of course, and there are really two ways to look at it. First, if dairy works for you and you are healthy, that’s great and my only rule is, make sure it is high-quality dairy. Modern milk is different from milk of past millennia. Cows on factory farms are kept pregnant and lactating year-round, and, as a result, their bodies are flooded with estrogen. Ideally, consume dairy that is organic, non-GMO, hormone-free, antibiotic-free, growth-hormone-free (BGHfree), from cows that are grass-fed and free-range, and sourced as locally as possible. Second, if you suspect dairy is contributing to a health problem, consider cutting back or cutting it out. I strongly advise you to use your inner guidance system to determine what works best for you in boosting your immune system, digestive system, and strengthening your body. Some people tolerate dairy better than others, especially those with blood type O. At Complete Wellness NYC, however, if someone comes in with IBS, digestive issues like bloating, or especially lung issues, we take them off dairy completely to see how elimination improves the situation. I’ve seen 90% of people’s lung issues clear up when they eliminate dairy.
SOME REASONS
1
Like wheat, dairy can be a hidden source of food sensitivity. It can contribute to inflammation and chronic health problems. Fortunately, we can get calcium in dark leafy greens, like kale, spinach, and watercress. We can enjoy drinking plant-based milks that are delicious!
2
One study found that countries with the highest consumption of dairy products had the highest incidence of prostate and testicular cancer. In 2005, the same was found true for breast, ovarian, and uterine cancer. I write about this and include the science of it in my book Cancer-Free with Food, on page 88.
3
Most of the population (75%) is genetically unable to digest lactose, the sugar in milk, beyond the age of two to five. Thus, dairy can cause inflammation and weaken immunity.
If I suggest that a client cut something out, I always provide an alternative. Replacement therapy is highly effective because a person is less likely to miss something they are cutting out. For a dairy alternative. One of my go-to’s is Sproud milk. It can substitute for milk in any recipe. It has a really creamy texture, very similar taste to milk — but it’s made with peas! Don’t worry: It doesn’t taste at all like peas. It’s said to be the best tasting non-dairy milk that exists today. Everyone I’ve had try it, loves the taste. Unlike other dairy-free milks, it has fullness to it, and doesn’t taste watery or nutty. It has more protein and fewer carbs than oat milk, plus it’s allergen-free and grain-free. Sproud can be incorporated into just about anything, including your pasta sauce. I also love adding it to matcha, smoothies, tea, and coffee. Social Life
H E A LT H & B E AU T Y
Cauliflower Alfredo Fettuccini Total time: 30 minutes, and worth every minute! Serves 4 32 grams of protein per serving Ingredients: 1 box Explore Cuisine edamame & mung bean fettuccine 2 tablespoons Nutiva buttery flavor coconut oil 2 teaspoons crushed garlic (1–2 garlic cloves) 1 shallot, thinly sliced 4 mushrooms, sliced ¾ cup peas (or other greens: broccoli, beans, asparagus) ¼ cup vegan parmesan, optional ¼ cup vegan cream cheese, optional Handful of fresh parsley, diced for garnish Dairy-Free Cauliflower Alfredo Sauce 3 cups chopped cauliflower (1 small cauliflower) 1 cup Sproud vegan milk 1 cup vegetable broth ¼ cup Bragg nutritional yeast 1 tablespoon lemon juice (about ½ a lemon) 1 tablespoon olive oil ¼ teaspoon thyme, oregano, black pepper, white pepper, and rosemary ½ teaspoon sea salt
Here is one of my favorite recipes to make with it — the most divine creamy sauce. This recipe is quick and easy. It’s not only free of dairy but is also gluten-free and full of nutrients. We get even more protein and delicious taste with this recipe using the edamame & mung bean fettuccine by Explore Cuisine! More alternative recipes like this are available in my books The Earth Diet and Cancer-Free with Food. Liana Werner-Gray Best-selling author of The Earth Diet, Cancer Free with Food, and 10-minute Recipes Nutritionist at Complete Wellness NYC @LianaWernerGray lianawernergray.com SocialLifeMagazine.com
Actions: 1. Bring a pot of water in saucepan to boil, add cauliflower pieces and cook for 10 minutes or until cauliflower is soft. Drain and add to a blender. 2. While the cauliflower is cooking, in medium saucepan over medium heat, sauté garlic and shallot in buttery coconut oil until fragrant and golden. Add the mushrooms and cook for 3 minutes and set aside while you blend the Alfredo sauce. 3. In blender, combine cauliflower, and remaining Alfredo sauce ingredients. Blend on high until creamy and smooth. Add to saucepan with garlic, shallot, and mushrooms. Stir until well combined over medium heat. 4. Add peas, cream cheese, and vegan parmesan, and set aside. 5. Cook the pasta according to box directions, then drain. 6. Cover with Alfredo sauce. 7. Serve with parmesan cheese and fresh parsley.
F E AT U R E S 8.75x7
JAMES C. METZGER
Thank You James C. Metzger Fund for Capital Improvements — 2012
The James C. Metzger Outstanding Sophomore Award for Lacrosse
The James C. Metzger Hofstra Lacrosse Endowment — 2012
The Hallway Traditions Project at Margiotta Hall
Alumni Achievement Award
The Metzger-Huff Lacrosse Offices at Hofstra University
James C. Metzger Hall — 2015 Hofstra Alumnus of the Year Award — 2016
The Royle-Sombrotto Men's Lacrosse Locker Rooms at Hofstra
Hofstra Athletics Hall of Fame
The Metzger-D’Innocenzo Endowed Summer Internship for the Center for Civic Engagement
Joseph M. Margiotta Distinguished Service Award
IN HONOR OF THE COMMITMENT, DEDICATION, AND SUPPORT TO HOFSTRA UNIVERSITY, AND ESPECIALLY ITS ATHLETICS PROGRAM, THAT MR. METZGER HAS DEMONSTRATED March 21, 2020
F E AT U R E S
From Hofstra and Hempstead to the Hamptons for Student Athletes — Kids to College . . .
JIM METZGER
STEERING THE COURSE FOR GIVING AND SUPPORT ON LONG ISLAND AND BEYOND By Patrick Shannon, with Contributions by Mike Virgintino
A
mid the Covid-19 pandemic, Hofstra’s leadership decided not to wait another day to express their gratitude for the man who cultivated a deep, 40-year relationship with the university. The reasons for his alma mater’s celebration are well founded and extraordinary, and the urge to communicate their feelings understandable. Mr. Metzger — “Jim” as he prefers — embraced the day both humbled and proud. Later, we’ll go into detail about the dedication event, but what this rare occasion highlighted, and brings into focus, is a life dedicated to helping children, young adults, families, and communities improve their lives through advocacy, education, and sports. In addition to reactions from Hofstra, we spoke recently with a handful of advocates and beneficiaries whose charitable and causerelated organizations have drawn Jim Metzger’s attention and generous support. Among these people and organizations are Alan Hodish, Hempstead PAL Lacrosse; Joe Fowler, top Lax volunteer and contributor to CityLax and Doc’s Lacrosse; Mark Cox, CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Long Island; Sharad Madison, president, board of trustees, Boys & Girls Club of Newark; Bernard Warren, Jamaica YMCA; Nancy Locker, board vice president, Citizens Committee for Children of New York; Len Genova, president, James C. Metzger–Suffolk County Chapter of the National Football Foundation. James C. Metzger is the founder and CEO of The Whitmore Agency, an insurance and financial services company headquartered in Garden City. Metzger is a former star lacrosse player at Half Hollows High School East in Dix Hills and at Hofstra University. He is a frequent donor to educational, charitable, and other organizations in the metropolitan area, including Hofstra, Half Hollow Hills High School, Saint Anthony’s High School, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Long Island, the American Heart Association, St. Jude Children’s Hospital, the New York City YMCA, the Hempstead PAL Lacrosse Program, and many others. HEMPSTEAD PAL LACROSSE In 2012, the LAX gods made a special visit to Hempstead in the form of Alan Hodish. He is a Garden City attorney and a former lacrosse and football coach at Hempstead High School, who also coached youth lacrosse on Long Island for many years. He is
well known and highly regarded in the community and in the local lacrosse cohort. The blessing Hodish bestowed was the creation of the Hempstead Tigers, a team that plays in the Nassau-Suffolk County Police Athletic Lacrosse League. Since its inception, more than 100 African-American and Hispanic youngAlan Hodish and Jim Metzger sters have been introduced to the game and benefit from the experience on and off the field. Young men who have passed through the program have enjoyed acceptances into top high schools, prep schools, and colleges — opportunities that many of them would not have seen without Hodish’s hand. Hodish and the athletes have also enjoyed the assistance of longtime coach Bernard Williams. Coach Hodish treats the Hempstead Tigers PAL program like family. He surrounds the aspiring youth with former high school players and other Long Island lacrosse standouts who serve as assistant coaches, role models, communicators, and friends for the kids who are eager to succeed on the lacrosse field. Not surprisingly, among these volunteers and supporters is Jim Metzger. “Jim Metzger is our Mr. Lacrosse,” Coach Hodish is glad to announce whenever given the chance. “He has been with us since our inaugural season, and he has been a great supporter of our program.” This year, shortly after all competitive youth athletics was suspended in Nassau County, Metzger, in honor of the commitment of Coach Hodish, made a timely five-figure donation to the Hempstead PAL Lacrosse Program. This gift supports team operations, equipment, uniforms, expenses for officials and league registration, and more. When play resumes, so will the James C. Metzger Award. This distinction is for a player’s “strong work ethic and improvement Social Life
F E AT U R E S made throughout the lacrosse season.” It has been presented annually by Mr. Lacrosse, who also speaks with all the players and parents about the lessons of teamwork that the youngsters learn through instruction, practice, and games. According to Metzger, commitment to the game and to teammates, is also a vital life lesson provided by the program. “Even if lacrosse is not pursued in high school, college, or professionally, the lessons and camaraderie that touches each of these players will be a positive experience that they will carry with them for the rest of their lives,” commented Metzger. “I am very proud of all the kids who have experienced the Tigers program and I enjoy helping each player discover this fabulous game and convert their experiences into future successes.” JAMES C. METZGER AWARD Given to the player who “demonstrates a strong work ethic and has made outstanding improvement throughout the lacrosse season.”
University of Denver lacrosse players with athletes from Harlem
“It’s simple. I do this for the kids. Most of these young boys would never have imagined what lacrosse could do for them, and especially what it could mean for their educational options. I just think they should be given the opportunity.” JOE FOWLER
2019 - Hempstead PAL lacrosse 6th & 7th grade team
2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019
Amara Koroma/Dylan Willis (Tie) Trayvon Alexander Jordan Satchell Jordan Evelyn William Sanchez Ja’mir Andrews Josh Garrett Adrian Ayala
LACROSSE IN HARLEM For 20 years, Joe Fowler has been a self-appointed top Lax volunteer, loading players into his car, all hours of the day and night, delivering them to fields for practices, games, tournaments, and showcases. Fowler has helped develop not only individual faceoff specialists, scorers, and D-men, but winning youth-level teams in NYC. And, most important, giving young athletes experiences that develop critical lifetime tools — character, teamwork, and discipline. Fowler grew up on Long Island, graduated from Chaminade High School and Hofstra University, where he too played lacrosse and was an All-American. He is also a two-time Hall of Famer with CityLax and Long Island Lacrosse. SocialLifeMagazine.com
Joe Fowler, Jimmeh Koita signing with Drexel, Billy Nguyen, and Greg Gurenlian
Vinnie Sombrotto
Lax on Long Island is special. If you are part of that world, the connections you make can be life-changing. To his credit, Fowler did what many do in this sport. He asked his Lax colleagues to help his players from Harlem. Among many proactive initiatives, he often secured college coaches and players from top Lax schools — Hofstra, Harvard, Duke, and Brown among them — to help with training and practice sessions. He also reached out to Vinnie Sombrotto and Jim Metzger. Sombrotto is among the best all-time U.S. lacrosse players; his credits include: Hofstra Lacrosse Division I All-American | Player on four World Lacrosse Championship teams | Player on 10 U.S. Club National Championship teams with L.I.-Hofstra | Two-time Team USA captain | Member of 1982 All-World Team | Three-time National Club Player of the Year | 15-time All-Club player. Sombrotto continues to work with Fowler’s players and does so pro bono. Metzger, too, was an All-American at Hofstra with his own list of record lacrosse accomplishments in high school and college. When asked, he lent financial support to CityLax. When Fowler was asked, “Why do you think Jim contributed so significantly?” He laughed, and said, “It’s just who he is, and what he does.”
ďœľďœ¸
F E AT U R E S
No. 56: Jim Metzger’s retired jersey
HOFSTRA UNIVERSITY On June 30, during a private ceremony, The Whitmore Agency founder, chairman, and CEO, James C. Metzger, was again honored by Hofstra University. An All-American lacrosse standout in 1980, and a member of Hofstra’s Class of 1983, Metzger has provided considerable support for Hofstra’s athletic and academic programs. Recognizing his outstanding contributions to the university, Metzger was shown his No. 56 retired jersey that will adorn the facade of Margiotta Hall, and also the bronze bust that will be added to the newly-landscaped area outside the men’s lacrosse locker room at Shuart Stadium. Hofstra vice president and director of athletics, Rick Cole Jr., began by saying, “Jim is an integral part of the fabric of Hofstra athletics and our entire university. We are thankful for his continued support of our student-athletes and programs and this gesture shows our incredible gratitude towards Jim and recognizes what he has meant to our university. I know I speak for the entire Hofstra community when I say congratulations, Jim, on these well-deserved honors!� Metzger responded, “I would like to take this opportunity to thank Hofstra University for the humbling honor and acknowledgment of my contributions to the school. I’m greatly flattered by the size and scope of their recognition, which I greatly appreciate. I’m proud of Hofstra for both their academics and athletics prowess. The Hofstra brand grows stronger every year, so it’s gratifying to play a small role in the success of the university. Special thanks to Hofstra president,
New lacrosse players’ locker room — 2020
Stuart Rabinowitz; Rick Cole Jr.; head men’s lacrosse coach, Seth Tierney; deputy director of athletics, Jay Artinian; and senior associate director of athletics, Bryan Graff, for their support. I will continue to support Hofstra to help make the brand stronger and the university a better place for all.� Among the major initiatives, programs, contributions, and honors due to Jim’s involvement, these are of note:
đ&#x;”š James C. Metzger Fund for Capital Improvements — 2012 đ&#x;”š The James C. Metzger Hofstra Lacrosse Endowment — 2012 đ&#x;”š Alumni Achievement Award đ&#x;”š James C. Metzger Hall — 2015 đ&#x;”š Hofstra Alumnus of the Year Award — 2016 đ&#x;”š Hofstra Athletics Hall of Fame đ&#x;”š Joseph M. Margiotta Distinguished Service Award đ&#x;”š The James C. Metzger Outstanding Sophomore Award for Lacrosse đ&#x;”š The Hallway Traditions Project at Margiotta Hall đ&#x;”š The Metzger–Huff Lacrosse Offices at Hofstra University đ&#x;”š The Royle–Sombrotto Men’s Lacrosse Locker Rooms at Hofstra đ&#x;”š The Metzger–D’Innocenzo Endowed Summer Internship for the Center for Civic Engagement đ&#x;”š The Lacrosse ReceptionRoom — In honor of Gary Arnold and the Unterstein Family
Social Life
F E AT U R E S
MAKING BIG ASSISTS
Using Lacrosse and Football to Support Students, Families, and Communities Hofstra University Lacrosse | Hempstead PAL Lacrosse | LAX in Harlem | James C. Metzger Leadership Awards – Nassau County – Boys Lacrosse | James C. Metzger Long island Lacrosse Championship MVP Awards – Classes A,B, C, D | National Football Foundation-Suffolk JAMES C. METZGER CEO / CHAIRMAN THE WHITMORE AGENCY
VINNIE SOMBROTTO VICE PRESIDENT THE WHITMORE AGENCY
Division 1 All-American lacrosse player at Hofstra University. His sophomore record-setting scoring average of 4.9 points per game still stands. Metzger's single season average ranks fifth in the history of the program and his single season assist average ranks eighth all time. Metzger is one of only three players in the history of Hofstra's Men's Lacrosse to score eight or more points three times in one season. During the 1980 season he led the team in points per game scoring | At Half Hallows Hills High School – 1977 Lacrosse AllAmerican, and Ray Enners Award Winner.
Hofstra Lacrosse Division I All-American | Player on four World Lacrosse Championship teams | Player on 10 U.S. Club National Championship teams with L.I.Hofstra | Two-time Team USA captain | Member of 1982 All-World Team | Three-time National Club Player of the Year | 15-time All-Club player | Member of the National Lacrosse Hall of Fame | Named to Newsday’s All Century Lacrosse Team | At Hofstra in 1980, he was the team’s overall leading scorer with 54 points. Hofstra’s lacrosse locker room is the named The Royle Sombrotto Men's Lacrosse Locker Rooms
SocialLifeMagazine.com
F E AT U R E S
BIG BROTHERS BIG SISTERS OF LONG ISLAND Incorporated in 1977, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Long Island (BBBSLI) has operated under the belief that inherent in every child is the ability to realize his or her endless potential. The organization’s mission is to provide children facing adversity with strong and enduring, Mark Cox professionally supported, one-toone relationships that change their lives for the better, forever. For the last six years, Mark Cox has been the CEO at BBBSLI. Previously, Mark worked at Hofstra in development and as an associate athletic director. Interestingly, while at Hofstra, he never met Jim Metzger. It wasn’t until he arrived at BBBSLI that talking to Jim Metzger was suggested to him. Cox was an athlete in college, playing football and lacrosse. There was obviously a lot for Cox and Metzger to talk about, and they did. In short order, Cox said that Metzger and E. David Woycik, Jr., another Hofstra grad and, yes, lacrosse player, teamed up to deliver the single largest donation BBBSLI has every received. When Cox was asked about Metzger’s contribution to BBBSLI, he responded that “Jim was excited about supporting an organization that is committed to helping kids and families, but Jim got emotional later when he was told about and learned more about the impact on the lives of the people we were serving.” BOYS & GIRLS CLUB OF NEWARK All things can be achieved with hard work. Education is the key to a young person’s success, regardless of current circumstance. Food is a basic need. If you are hungry, eating is your only goal. Remember where you come from and give back. There is no surprise that a mission statement like this would cause Sharad Madison Metzger to pause. Sharad Madison, president, CEO/chairman of United Building Maintenance Associates of Manhattan and Philadelphia, commented, “My father, Oliver Madison, the founder of UBM often repeated this. These core values guided my family and our business to this day.” It is no surprise, therefore, that Sharad Madison is the president of the board of the Boys & Girls Club of Newark (BGCN), on the boards of TPC at Jasna Polana in Princeton and the Accident and Prevention Safety Group in New York City, among other positions at organizations that value individual needs and development.
“We would like to thank James,” wrote Ameer Washington, CEO of BGCN of Newark, “for his long-standing support of Boys & Girls Club of Newark. He has been an incredible supporter of our organization for so many years. We were looking forward to honoring him at our 32nd Annual Evening of the Stars Gala on March 26. However, due to concerns related to Covid-19, we were not able to host our gala this year. But [this] does not diminish the bright light that [is] James and all the philanthropic work he has done for us, so many other organizations, universities and sportsmen throughout his illustrious career.” “I am always humbled to be acknowledged for my philanthropic contributions throughout our area,” said Metzger, whose leading independent insurance and financial services firm is in Garden City on Long Island. “Friends of BGCN’s work in the community with youth and families, along with sponsors of the gala who have faithfully supported the organization over the years, again have stepped up during this critical time for all of us. “I was introduced to this wonderful organization,” continued Metzger, “by our client and good friend, Sharad Madison, the president, CEO and chairman of United Building Maintenance Associates of Manhattan and Philadelphia. Sharad ensures, on the business side, that his company takes a proactive approach to keeping his clients’ facilities in optimal working condition and appearance. Sharad and the company give back to many organizations, and we thank him for sharing with us his interest in the Boys & Girls Club of Newark.” CITIZENS’ COMMITTEE FOR CHILDREN OF NY Proudly, Nancy Locker, vice president/board member of the Citizens’ Committee for Children of New York (CCC), provided an update on the work of the CCC and asked about her friend Jim Metzger. “This is our 75th year,” Locker shared. “Shortly after WWII, Eleanor Roosevelt established the orNancy Locker and Jim Metzger ganization to care for New York’s children. Certainly, a critical need then, and no less relevant today.” CCC is a nonprofit and nonpartisan child advocacy organization. They educate and mobilize New Yorkers to make the city a better place for children. Their advocacy combines public policy research and data analysis with citizen action. They cast light on the issues, educate the public, engage allies, and identify and promote practical solutions to ensure that every New York City child is healthy, housed, educated, and safe. “Jim/Whitmore has been a longtime corporate sustaining partner. We are a private organization, and take no government money, so Jim’s generosity, and the generosity of people like him, is crucial to us being able to fulfill our mission. I’m so thankful.”
Social Life
F E AT U R E S
JAMAICA YMCA Bernard Warren is the chairman and president of Webb & Brooker, Inc., a real estate services firm specializing in the New York Metro area. Warren recalled that shortly after Webb & Brooker moved their insurance to Whitmore, he got a call from his insurance broker, who told him that Jim, the chairman of the agency, wanted to meet with Jim Metzger and Bernard Warren him. A little strange thought Warren. Why does this guy want to meet me now? They already have my business. In fact, Warren asked Jim, “Why are we meeting?” Jim said that he had heard about some special things Warren was doing and wanted to talk about it. They met, but the meeting and conversation barely touched on business. It was, however, about some things very important to both Warren and Metzger. One of Warren’s passions and an avocation was, and is, working with underprivileged children, families, and communities. He serves as president for the board of managers for the Jamaica YMCA. Warren said that they talked about basketball, sports in general, and the work and vision for the Jamaica Y. “That first meeting was ten years ago, and every year Jim is here for us, giving his support and excited about helping,” said Warren. “He is just a good man, a true friend, and great business partner. I’m glad I took the meeting.” NATIONAL FOOTBALL FOUNDATION
For the last several years, Metzger has been the benefactor for the Mr. Football New York City Player of the Year Award that is presented to the top high school player by the New York City Chapter of the National Football Foundation and College Hall of Fame. SocialLifeMagazine.com
Recently, we were able to catch up with Leonard Genova, president of the James C. Metzger-Suffolk County Chapter of the National Football Foundation, who provided comments on Metzger’s involvement. “In my almost 30 years of working with charitable organizations dedicated to promoting educational initiatives for high school athletes, I can say emphatically that I have never met anyone more passionate, caring, and committed to helping young student-athletes,” said Genova. “Jim is all about doing the right thing when no one is looking. He isn’t interested in recognition, but rather takes comfort in knowing he did the right thing. His generosity, friendship, and support are critical to our chapter’s success. It is for all these reasons that we decided to rename our chapter in the fall of 2019, and it is now known as the James C. Metzger-Suffolk County Chapter of the National Football Foundation. The high school football community in Suffolk County is blessed to have the involvement of a person like Jim Metzger.” “Lacrosse is the game that is usually attached to my name, but, privately, one of the most exciting feelings in sport is carrying a pigskin through the line of scrimmage and grinding out 10 yards.” JIM METZGER
ďœśďœ˛
F E AT U R E S
Bob Garone, All-American and Division III National Champion; offensive lineman for the Ithaca Bombers in the 1980s. (Photo courtesy of Ithaca College Athletic Communications)
THE CORTACA JUG: ITHACA COLLEGE & ROSEMAR CONSTRUCTION “When I founded Whitmore in 1983, there were several core values I wanted instilled into the organization. They are straightforward, actually very simple, and easy to understand. Reflecting on an opportunity with a client we helped last year, two of these guiding principles helped us quickly evaluate and decide on what to do.� JIM METZGER The core values Jim referred to are: At Whitmore, a relationship is a partnership. Whitmore promises to make insurance personal.
đ&#x;”š đ&#x;”š
The client is Rosemar Construction on Long Island. During his college years, Bob Garone, the founder and owner of Rosemar, had the privilege and pleasure of playing football at Ithaca. During that time, he played in an annual game against rival SUNY Cortland, called the Cortaca Jug. These teams have played 77 times since 1930. Last year Nick, Bob’s youngest son, was preparing to complete a Cortaca trifecta. Following his dad and older brother, Bobby, Nick would be playing as a senior captain in his final Cortaca Jug game.
Amazing family history no doubt, but this had a unique element that turned the game into a college football history moment. On November 16, 2019, these two Division III schools did something no other D-III schools had ever done, play a game at MetLife Stadium, home of the National Football League’s New York Giants and New York Jets. While preparing for “The Biggest Little Game in College Football,� Bob Garone asked Jim if his company, Whitmore, would be interested in a Title Sponsorship of the game. Jim said yes and implemented a complete sponsorship marketing program supporting the event that included PR, print and video advertising, and hospitality. Afterward, Jim commented, “We at Whitmore want to thank Bob Garone, the president and founder of Rosemar Construction; Ithaca College; and the National Football Foundation NY Chapter for the privilege and opportunity to be the presenting sponsor of the 2019 Cortaca Jug.� u You can read about the entire 2019 Cortaca Jug in the Autumn 2019 issue of Social Life magazine issuu.com/sociallifemagazine Executive Producer & Creative Director: Christine Montanti Photography: Donald Fitzgibbon Grooming: J.D. Rose Photography Assistant: Brandon Robinson Social Life
F E AT U R E S
Giving Back, Building Bridges & Finding Peace
MARIA FISHEL
IS A BRIGHT STAR EMANATING LIGHT IN THE HAMPTONS By Blaire Bass
A
mid the age of the pandemic, it can be hard to find things to be positive about. The daily news, the stockpiling and social distancing can become overwhelming for some. However, it’s important to remember that moments of crisis do in fact often bring out the best in people. That is the case with the Hamptons socialite and philanthropist Maria Fishel. Social Life visited virtually with Maria to learn more about how she made the most of her time during quarantine by looking for ways to give back, create peace, and keep herself balanced.
HEART OF GOLD Maria is known around town for hosting spectacular charity events throughout the years, raising millions of dollars for causes that are close to her heart. Many of these events take place free of charge at her beautiful expansive estate in Bridgehampton, where she, her husband, Kenneth, and their 29-year old son, Bradley, have been since March when the lockdown began. “We’re honored to share our home,” Maria explains. “It’s very satisfying raising money to assist in the quest for cures for cancer, especially as the disease impacts so many people. Various organizations have extremely important needs and to see the results when you work so closely with them has been gratifying. One challenge has been to influence more people to become involved. I’ve come to learn that when they understand the importance of their involvement and that they can really make a difference, they do so enthusiastically and excitedly.” This summer Maria and her charity cohorts got creative, given inperson events weren’t wise. With a live Zoom event, they raised over $100K for the Samuel Waxman Cancer Research Foundation and had fun hosting the virtual event safely! BUILDING A PEACEFUL OASIS AT HOME In addition to her 16-acre reserve, the property has twoacres of untouched land, which until recently was filled with dead trees and branches strewn throughout. While the Fishel family was in quarantine, she asked herself: Why not turn this land into something beautiful? Right there and then, she decided to create a place for contemplation, meditation, and peace. “There is something so peaceful about being surrounded by trees — the sense of calm and serenity envelops your soul and your mind.” Social Life
F E AT U R E S This vision was the inspiration to spruce up the area and plant almost 1,000 trees. Yes, 1,000. The trees are all different shapes and sizes and include numbers of green giant, white pine, blue spruce, and Leyland cypress. She even planted a flower and fruit tree garden in the middle of this tree farm, including peach, fig, and apple trees. “Trees ground us, provide safety, stability, and balance on our planet. They provide healing energy to my soul, shade on a hot day, home and safety to our wildlife,” she shares. A stunningly romantic bridge was built on the tree farm, modeled after the bridge Claude Monet had constructed across the pond on his property in Giverny, and made famous in his 1899 painting Bridge Over a Pond of Water Lilies. The Fishels’ bridge looks almost identical to the original in France. In recent years, Maria took a plethora of landscaping design classes at the New York Botanical Garden, where she learned a lot about botanicals. She has a warm smile on her face as she tells us how she adores designing her own flower arrangements and how every Thursday she drives to Dutch Petals in Southampton to buy flowers. She’s created spectacular orchid centerpieces, and hydrangeas are a special favorite. Given her love for plants and flowers, it’s no surprise she was motivated to build the tree farm. POLO HAMPTONS For the third consecutive summer, Maria’s estate was also the site for Polo Hamptons, a beloved polo match and event out East that evokes a modern version of yesteryear, with ladies wearing spectacular hats and dapper Dans gallivanting about. It’s really like a scene from a movie.
SocialLifeMagazine.com
Bradley Fishel and Maria Fishel at Polo Hamptons 2020, Photo by David Warren
Do you have a philanthropist whom you look up to? I admire Melinda Gates because she takes on causes that are unfashionable to some, such as malaria and improving drinking water. Her efforts are astounding. How have your life experiences influenced your work in philanthropy today? Growing up in Ecuador I saw the great disparity between extreme wealth and extreme poverty, which left me appreciative of my life and with the belief that if I am in a position to help alleviate suffering, I should try my very best to do so. You’ve been committed to supporting multiple charities that help raise money for cancer research. Is there a particular driver for you in that quest? Unfortunately, my husband’s parents and my father passed away from cancer. One in three people will be diagnosed with cancer at some point during his or her lifetime. It’s a disease that is pervasive and has the ability to hurt many if we don’t get a hold on it. What is your philanthropic dream? To cure cancer.
Your chair is waiting
Photography by Michael Paniccia Gown by Carolina Herrera
SOCIETY
JEAN SHAFIROFF AT HOME
SOCIET Y
VALERIE STEELE JEAN SHAFIROFF INTERVIEWS VALERIE STEELE, DIRECTOR AND CHIEF CURATOR OF THE MUSEUM AT FIT (MFIT)
Valerie, can you tell us about how The Museum at FIT has managed since the museum closed due to Covid-19? The Museum at FIT is a division of the Fashion Institute of Technology, which is part of the State University of New York (SUNY). When the university closed in March, so did we. But, of course, education had to continue. So, like the faculty, the museum staff began to work from home on a wide range of online projects, including exhibitions, podcasts, and YouTube videos. What happened to the beautiful Ballerina exhibition? Ballerina: Fashion’s Modern Muse was only open for a month, when the galleries had to go dark. But, fortunately, we had already photographed the exhibition and videotaped the symposium, including a wonderful lecture by the exhibition curator, Patricia Mears. As a result, Ballerina has been our most popular online exhibition ever! This is wonderful to hear. You had two other exhibitions on display this past spring. What has happened to them? Power Mode and Eleanor Lambert, Empress of Fashion. We now have online exhibitions of both shows. Plus, I was in the midst of guest-curating an exhibition at the Kobe Fashion Museum in Japan. Because of the pandemic, I couldn’t make another trip to Japan, but I finished curating it by working online from home. Then we made a very attractive online tour. Plus, our Black Fashion Designers app on OnCell will be live through October 31, 2020, offering mobile visitors a look inside an amazing exhibition we did two years ago. One of the curators, Elizabeth Way, is currently working on several upcoming exhibitions and books. In fact, everyone at the museum has been incredibly busy working on projects to engage our audiences.
What are some of your favorite projects? The Museum at FIT normally holds about 400 classes and tours a year — for FIT students, high school students, and visiting groups. When that stopped, we pivoted to creating our first online class, 100 Years of Fashion. It is narrated by Michelle McVicker, who normally teaches our fashion history classes using some of the 2,000 objects in our study collection. However, only a few of these had been photographed, so to make the video, she chose a selection from the more
Jean Shafiroff, Photo by Michael Paniccea Jean Shafiroff and Valerie Steele, Photo by Patrick McMullan
By Jean Shafiroff
Social Life
SOCIETY
The Museum at FIT Paris, Capital of Fashion installation
than 50,000 garments and accessories in our permanent collection. Now we’re about to release a Spanish-language version of the class. Working at home, we’ve also added hundreds of photographs to e-museum, our online collection. In July, MFIT won a Silver Muse Award from the American Alliance of Museums. Are there any new developments you can share? Daphne Guinness telephoned me recently to let me know that she had found some video footage of her glamorous MFIT exhibition. Jean, as a board member of the Couture Council, you may remember the amazing opening party in September 2000 with our life-size moving hologram. The museum’s media team is now editing her video, together with still photographs, and our recent Zoom conversation to make a new online look at Daphne Guinness. SocialLifeMagazine.com
When will the museum reopen? The museum will be closed for the fall, and the reopening date will be determined later. Obviously, we had to postpone our two autumn exhibitions, Ravishing: The Rose in Fashion and Head to Toe. For the first time, the Fall Fashion Culture series will be completely online. I just recorded a fascinating interview with the designer Prabal Gurung, which we will present on YouTube this fall, when viewers will have the opportunity to chat live with Prabal. Later programs will feature speakers such as Stefano Tonchi and Robin Givhan. Check us out at fitnyc.edu/museum ABOUT VALERIE STEELE Valerie Steele is director and chief curator of The Museum at FIT, where she has organized more than 25 exhibitions, including, most recently, Paris, Capital of Fashion.
SOCIETY
The Museum at FIT Paris, Capital of Fashion installation
Described by the Washington Post as one of “fashion’s brainiest women” and by the fashion critic Suzy Menkes as “The Freud of Fashion,” Steele combines serious scholarship (and a Yale PhD) with the rare ability to communicate with general audiences. ABOUT JEAN SHAFIROFF Jean Shafiroff — philanthropist, humanitarian, advocate, TV host, and the author of Successful Philanthropy: How to Make a Life By What You Give — is a volunteer leader of several charitable causes. She serves on several charity boards: Southampton Hospital Association, NYC Mission Society, French Heritage Society, Couture Council, Global Strays, The Jewish Board (honorary trustee), and Southampton Animal Shelter
Foundation (honorary board). In addition, Jean is an ambassador for the American Humane and the national spokesperson for its Feeding the Hungry program. She is an ambassador for the Southampton Animal Shelter Foundation. She is a New York Women’s Foundation Board alumna who remains very active with this foundation and women’s issues. Jean is the producer and host of the TV show Successful Philanthropy, which airs four times a week through LTV studios in East Hampton. Jean holds two degrees: a BS in Physical Therapy from the College of Physicians and Surgeons at Columbia University and an MBA in Finance from Columbia Business School at Columbia University. Jean and her family reside in Manhattan and Southampton. Social Life
SOCIETY
COUTURE COUNCIL HONORS CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTIN AT LINCOLN CENTER 2019 All images thanks to BFA
Christian Louboutin, Dr. Valerie Steele
Dr. Joyce Brown, Carolyn Maloney, Christian Louboutin, Jean Shafiroff, Rebecca Seawright, and Priyanka Chopra Jonas
Christian Louboutin
MFIT PARIS, CAPITAL OF FASHION 2019 Image thanks to BFA
Dr. Valerie Steele, Jean Shafiroff, Yaz Hernandez
Diane von Furstenberg, Christian Louboutin
BALLERINA: FASHION’S MODERN MUSE 2019 All images thanks to BFA
Jean Shafiroff, Victor dE Souza
Patricia Mears, Hamish Bowles, Valerie Steele
SOCIETY
ELSIE McCABE THOMPSON JEAN SHAFIROFF, BOARD MEMBER, INTERVIEWS ELSIE McCABE THOMPSON, PRESIDENT OF THE MISSION SOCIETY OF NEW YORK CITY By Jean Shafiroff the pandemic to meet our families’ most basic needs. Through the generosity of our donors, such as you, we were able to provide Mission students with care packages that included dry food, household essentials, and grocery store gift cards to help alleviate some of the families’ financial pressures and ensure that students have nutritious meals at home. We mobilized our community to donate or loan laptops, iPads, and hotspots to students who needed them, while they awaited their school technology to arrive. And most critically, we let our Mission families know that we’re there for them by calling them on a bi-weekly basis to check in on their well-being, and provide referrals to food banks, housing assistance, medical care, and other critical services. Elsie McCabe Thompson
The Mission Society serves some of the most vulnerable families in New York City. How has the Covid-19 pandemic affected the community we serve? Prior to Covid-19, three quarters of Mission families lived at or below the federal poverty level, and a third lived in temporary housing. The economic impact of the pandemic exacerbated their financial circumstances even further. We now see more families struggling to put food on their tables and pay their rent, and the families that were already struggling are experiencing an even more dire reality. We also learned that when schools transitioned to remote learning, the majority of our students didn’t have access to a computer or the internet at home to complete their school work. It took several weeks for their schools to provide them with laptops and hotspots. These are students who attend under-resourced schools and were already behind academically. Unfortunately, this situation only increased the education gap, and put more students in danger of getting left behind. Elsie, can you tell our readers how this increased need impacted our approach to the services we deliver? I’ve always been inspired by how our Mission’s team rises to the challenge. Our response during Covid demonstrates immense ingenuity and empathy. Because we know students can’t focus on their schoolwork when they’re hungry or living in a stressful environment, we expanded our scope of work during
With regard to our programming, we quickly pivoted our model to distance learning. Our in-house team of educators transformed our curricula so that we could continue to engage students through online literacy and STEM activities, provide homework help, and support parents as they home-school their children. For our high school programs, we created virtual office hours to guide students through the college application and FAFSA process, and offered virtual college tours. We also worked closely with our internship partners to develop projects that students could complete at home, which allowed us to continue to pay those students for their internships, since many of them financially contribute to their households. That is all wonderful. Elsie. What are some lessons that you have learned from this experience? NYC Mission has been around for over 200 years, and we’ve always adjusted to the changing times. I think this pandemic was no different, yet it forced us to innovate at a quicker pace than we might have during normal circumstances. We experimented with new ideas amid so much uncertainty, and it served as a great reminder of our ability to be nimble, to respond with compassion, and to find creative solutions to any challenges we face. We are fortunate to have such an incredible community of helpers. Our donors stepped up to ensure that Mission families had the support they needed during a very difficult time. We are grateful to our supporters for helping us provide critical services. Social Life
SOCIETY
Jean Shafiroff and Elsie McCabe Thompson NYC Mission Thanksgiving Community Dinner 2019
Jean Shafiroff and guest NYC Mission Thanksgiving Community Dinner 2019
Jay and Missy Moorehead NYC Mission Thanksgiving Community Dinner 2019
Elsie McCabe Thompson NYC Mission Thanksgiving Community Dinner 2019
ABOUT ELSIE MCCABE THOMPSON Elsie McCabe Thompson is the president of the Mission Society of New York City, one of the nation’s oldest social service organizations. For over two centuries, the Mission Society has provided educational and restorative justice programs and community events that help children and young adults in the city’s most underserved communities to break the cycle of poverty and achieve success. The Mission Society serves approximately 5,500 New Yorkers each year. Elsie is the former president of the Museum for African Art. Prior to that role, Elsie served as the chief of staff for New York City’s Mayor David Dinkins. Previously, in the private sector, she was a senior litigator with Shearman & Sterling. While practicing law, she co-founded and ran a training and mentoring program for minority students, providing educational programs for more than 10,000 young people.
SocialLifeMagazine.com
Roz Nixon and Elsie McCabe Thompson NYC Mission Thanksgiving Community Dinner 2019
Jean Shafiroff, Elsie McCabe Thompson, Katrina Peebles, Stanley Rumbough NYC Mission Society Founding Families Gala 2019
ABOUT JEAN SHAFIROFF Jean Shafiroff — philanthropist, humanitarian, advocate, TV host, and the author of Successful Philanthropy: How to Make a Life By What You Give — is a volunteer leader of several charitable causes. She serves on several charity boards: Southampton Hospital Association, NYC Mission Society, French Heritage Society, Couture Council, Global Strays, The Jewish Board (honorary trustee), and Southampton Animal Shelter Foundation (honorary board). In addition, Jean is an ambassador for the American Humane and the national spokesperson for its Feeding the Hungry program. She is an ambassador for the Southampton Animal Shelter Foundation. She is a New York Women’s Foundation Board alumna who remains very active with this foundation and women’s issues. Jean is the producer and host of the TV show Successful Philanthropy, which airs four times a week through LTV studios in East Hampton. Jean holds two degrees: a BS in Physical Therapy from the College of Physicians and Surgeons at Columbia University and an MBA in Finance from Columbia Business School at Columbia University. Jean and her family reside in Manhattan and Southampton.
SOCIETY
SOUTHAMPTON HOSPITAL FOUNDATION’S 62ND ANNUAL SUMMER PARTY RAISES OVER $750, 000 FOR STONY BROOK SOUTHAMPTON HOSPITAL, AUGUST 2020
(above) Susan Bourdeau and Howard M. Lorber at Howard's Gala In Your Garden.
Melanie and John Wambold (above, left) hosted their gala with Judith Giuliani (pictured right).
(above) Jay Hirschorn and Assemblywoman Rebecca Seawright attended Jean Shafiroff's dinner. (left) Joey Wölffer hosted a gala at her home in Sag Harbor. (above) Cindy Willis shows off her table for Gala In Your Garden.
(above) Matt Somma, Kristen Farrell and Edward Hahn at Kristen's dinner.
(above) Donna Karan and her daughter Gabby Karan de Felice hosted a dinner for Gala In Your Garden.
(above) Laura Lofaro-Freeman and James Freeman with family. (below) Kathy, Kristin and Carrie Pasternak at their gala.
(above) James and Hollis Forbes pose with their dinner guests. (below) Jean and Martin Shafiroff at their Southampton home.
(above) Ingrid Arneberg, Lee Fryd, Sarah Kuhl, Lauren Roberts, Jean Shafiroff, Assemblywoman Rebecca Seawright, Ruth Miller and Lucia Hwong Gordon attended Jean Shafiroff's dinner.
We are friends. We are family. THIS IS
Unconditional L O V E MATCHING FUND CAMPAIGN We at the Southampton Animal Shelter Foundation are saddened by the cancellation of our 11th Annual Unconditional Love Gala. We rely heavily on the funds generated by the Gala to care for our shelter animals. While we remain committed to saving the lives of pets in need, this reduction in funding will impact the scope of our mission. This past year, the Southampton Animal Shelter Foundation found homes for over 800 animals and provided the community with necessary resources like our Wellness Clinic, Advo-Cats Program, low-cost spay/neuter mobile clinic, as well as other community outreach programs. These services help pet owners who fall on hard times keep their animals with them and out of the shelters.
DOUBLE YOUR DONATION UNTIL OCTOBER 31, 2020
We are asking our friends and family to give what you can to help us help them. This season, we are excited to announce that a few generous donors have graciously offered to match donations up to $150,000. If you give $500, our shelter pets get $1000. This will accelerate our goal to reach $500,000. While this goal is ambitious, we know that we can continue to count on you as we always have.
Together we can make a difference and save the lives of animals that rely on us each and every day.
TO DONATE
CALL 631-488-8000 VISIT www.southamptonanimalshelter.com
SOUTHAMPTON animal shelter FOUNDATION
or mail your donation to 102 Old Riverhead Road West, Hampton Bays, NY 11946
CHAIR Jean Shafiroff JUNIOR CHAIR Georgina Bloomberg Katie McEntee Nathania Nisonson COMMITTEE Antonella Bertello Amy Cosman Kingsley Crawford Missy Hargraves Robert Lohman Merritt Piro Randi Schatz Elizabeth Shafiroff Jacqueline Shafiroff Sarah Vacchiano
SOCIETY
S O C I A L S A FA R I WHEN IN THE HAMPTONS By R. Couri Hay with Photography by Patrick McMullan
PETER THOMAS ROTH, AUDREY GRUSS, ERIC JAVITS & DI MONDO ETAIN HEALTH, SOUTHAMPTON ANIMAL SHELTER & THE DOG STORE Tale of Two Parties: Audrey Gruss & Sharon Bush
There were two top parties this summer. The first was the fête Audrey and Martin Gruss hosted for the newlyweds Sharon Bush and Bob Murray, at Fairwind, the Grusses’ art-strewn estate in Southampton. The couple was married by the televangelist Joel Bob Murray Lauren Bush and David Lauren, and Sharon Bush with Max and James Osteen at Central Presbyterian Church in Manhattan. The wedding party included Sharon’s children, Lauren Bush Lauren, who is married to David Lauren (a son of Ralph Lauren), and their children, James and Max; Lauren’s siblings, Ashley and Pierce; and Bob’s children, Griffin and Erin. When I arrived at Fairwind, I couldn’t help but notice two cars of Secret Service agents: Were they for Audrey’s friend Prince Charles of England? President Trump? Or a cabinet secretary? Upon entering the house, which holds a stellar art collection ranging from Damien Hirst to George Condo, I headed toward the terrace and down a long winding path, bordered by giant white hydrangeas. The breathtaking grounds, dotted with sculptures, flower gardens, an organic vegetable patch, a pond, and even an apple orchard, were designed by the master landscaper Edwina von Gal. At the end of the torchlit path was the party pavilion, perched next to the pool. Audrey had created a long table on the terrace, festooned with low bouquets of sunflowers. The guests all arrived dressed to kill and were wearing stylish masks. Among the twelve — seated 6 feet apart, naturellement — included the writer Hilary Geary Ross and her husband, Secretary of Audrey Gruss
Commerce Wilbur Ross (hence the Secret Service) — along with other guests too private to mention. Audrey’s French chef created a sublime dinner, beginning with a tower of cool crab meat, followed by chicken curry over rice, with all the fun toppings such as coconut flakes, raisins, and Hilary Geary Ross & Wilbur Ross chutney. The Champagnes and wines were glorious. Dessert was a blissful floating island that was trailed by chocolate truffles, coffees, cappuccino, and tea. The main dish was the conversation, but I’ve been sworn to secrecy.
Virtual Race of Hope
Over cappuccino, Audrey Gruss accepted kudos for her recent Hope for Depression Research Foundation’s (HDRF) Virtual Race of Hope in Southampton. The Grey’s Anatomy star Eric Dane was the race’s Ambassador of Hope, who inspired hundreds of runners across the country to raise funds and awareness for depression research. In September, Audrey will debut her new eaux de parfum, Night, in a unique crystal bottle designed by Marc Rosen, available at Bergdorf Goodman, with all proceeds going to HDRF. If that’s not enough for you, Audrey has just pledged $30 million to fund the development of new treatments at the world’s top universities. It’s the only way, really. hopefordepression.org
Di Mondo & Eric Javits The second top party was given by the designer Eric Javits — famed internationally for his hats and accessories — in honor of the birthday of his longtime boy- Jamee Gregory, Eric Javits & Di Mondo, Zoe Bullock, Janna Bullock friend Di Mondo. The dress code was disco-cowboy, so bedazzled jeans, sequined shirts, cowboy hats, boots, and — of course — face masks were de rigueur. The intimate party was held in the courtyard Social Life
SOCIETY of Andrea Karambelas’s château in Water Mill and was aglow with dozens of artfully strung colored globes. A socially distant cocktail hour took place before a scrumptious dinner that offered a yummy vegan option. Guests included Janna Bullock and her daughter Zoe, Kevin Richards, Gillian and Sylvester Miniter, Lucia Hwong Gordon, fashionista Peter Davis, Nicole Salmasi, and a baker’s dozen of the couple’s nearest and dearest. The gathering held a spectacular surprise. It wasn’t the adroit DJ or the 6'4" shirtless cowboy waiters, it was the magician. The pièce de résistance of the soirée was when the wizard beckoned Di Mondo to the stage, stretched him out on a glass table in his stunning silver-sequined sheath, and levitated him two feet above the table. Who else would tell you these things?
Shampooch & Cat Cam
Dog lovers Georgina Bloomberg and Jean Shafiroff have long championed the Southampton Animal Shelter’s (SAF) mission to provide for the welfare of an ever-growing number of homeless animals and place them in forever homes. Although their Unconditional Love Georgina Bloomberg, Michael Bloomberg, Jean Shafiroff Gala has been postponed until next year, they held an imaginative dog and car wash called shampooch. SAF, founded in 2010, is primarily dedicated to rescuing dogs around the world, from New York City to Georgia to Puerto Rico and even China. SAF also has a spay and neuter mobile clinic, and a 24-hour live stream of cats called Cat Cam, which can be viewed online. southhamptonanimalshelter.com
Beyoncé & The Dog Store
Vera Wang, Diana Ross, Simon Cowell, and Beyoncé turn to Edward Alava’s The Dog Store to pamper their beloved pooches. Alava runs a mobile unit in the Hamptons, allowing him to do house calls to groom and fluff your four-legged friend. “We come to your house and set up all our grooming and special services, like massage and acupuncture,” said Alava, who can even arrange a doggie birthday party, supervised play dates, and beach walks. The puppy master started The Dog Store 20 years ago, and today runs one of the most successful canine boutiques on the East Coast, including his original store in New York. The Dog Store delivers the best concierge services in NY, including training for boat and jet travel, boarding, and every other pampering and medical service you can think of. 170 E 61st Street, 212.317.5987 or 917.535.0239
Beyoncé
SocialLifeMagazine.com
Safari Roundup
The skin-care mogul Peter Thomas Roth is releasing a plethora of new products for the fall. These include the Potent-C power scrub, to help recharge your skin after a summer in Peter Thomas Roth, with sons Ryan and Brendan the sun as well as the must-have Hyrda-Gel eye patches and an essential Water Drench collection that you shouldn’t live without. peterthomasroth.com … Hillary Peckham, the co-founder of Etain Health, a family-run, women-owned medical marijuana dispensary, has opened a new flagship store at 242 East 58th Street. Clodagh, the renowned interior designer, created the space that bears a two-story living wall. Peckham said, “We have re-imagined our brand, but what has remained consistent is our commitment to the well-being of our clients. We have created the Hillary Peckham, Keeley Peckham highest quality and purest products to meet the needs of our customers.” etainhealth.com … Dr. Yves Duroseau, Dr. Sekuleo Gathers, and LEAA Health have launched a house-call service called OpenClear, a white-glove Covid-19 screening that also includes an antibody test. Whether in the Hamptons, NYC, or Miami, a licensed doctor’s physician assistant can visit your home or office, perform a rapid-test, and deliver results within 24 hours. openclear.ny … Apolo Ohno and Dr. Shawn Sadri Dr. Shawn Sadri’s dental patients are CEOs, athletes, DJs, and TV personalities. They include Yankees’ superstar Miguel Andujar, NBA Hall of Famer Alonzo Mourning, ABC sportscaster Ryan Field, Hip-Hop’s Method Man, Elijah McGuire of the Kansas City Chiefs, and speed skater Apolo Ohno. His full-service dental practice on E 50th Street offers everything from cleanings to veneers and fillings to implants. drshawnsadri. com … Attorney Sal Strazzullo, who specializes in real estate closings and estate planning, has opened a new street-level office at 391 Greenwich Street in Tribeca. strazzullolaw.com Wass Stevens and Sal Strazzullo
POLO HAMPTONS
POLO HAMPTONS, AUGUST 2020 MATCH & EVENT | PoloHamptons.com Title Sponsor
BMW Sponsored by
BOAR’S HEAD TURKS & CAICOS ISLANDS DECCO EVENT RENTALS ELEGANT AFFAIRS AMY HEILBERG JEWELS All images thanks to
DAVID WARREN DERLIS A. CHAVARRIA
Social Life
POLO HAMPTONS, MATCH & EVENT AUGUST 2020 | PoloHamptons.com Title Sponsor
BMW Sponsored by
BOAR’S HEAD TURKS & CAICOS ISLANDS DECCO EVENT RENTALS ELEGANT AFFAIRS AMY HEILBERG JEWELS All images thanks to
DAVID WARREN & DERLIS A. CHAVARRIA
Kyle Johnson
Pamela Wright, Gregg Holmes, Lauren Day Roberts and Bob Roberts
Jean Shafiroff, Chris Arlotta, Susan Baker, Andrea Warshaw Wernick, Pamela Wright, Ruth Miller, Lauren Day Roberts, Maria Fishel, Deanna Passerellli and her daughter
Bradley Fishel, Maria Fishel and Ken Fishel
Andrea Warshaw Wernick and Joel Wernick
Sach Chopra and Zaneta Maria
Paul Forsman and Cornelia Forsman
Amy Heilberg Jewels
Eddie Shapiro
Noel Roberts
Irina Fain, Cass Almendral and Julia Gregorian
Alexandra Cote
Nicole Noonan
Jessica Wasmuth and Dr. Andrew Jacono
Alexandra Cote and Morgan Moog
Maria Fishel
Tony Bowles and Noina Adams
S
OCIETY
A
LLURE BY ROB RICH
John Catsimatides hosted a breakfast with House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy August 15, 2020
VICTORIA SCHNEPS-YUNIS, KEVIN McCARTHY
NICOLE MALLIOTAKIS, ADELE MALPASS
MICHAEL PITSINOS, TODD ENGLISH
JOHN CATSIMATIDIS JR., MARGO CATSIMATIDIS
DICK SOLOWAY, DONNA SOLOWAY
JUDGE RICHARD WEINBERG, CHARLES TEMEL
TINA GLANDIAN
MIKE MERLO, THOMAS KEHOE
Photos by Rob Rich. For more photos go to societyallure.com
JOHN CATSIMATIDIS, TODD SHAPIRO
Social Life
HOT SHOTS
ROBERT INDIANA GALLERY GMURZYNSKA
CHEF SAUL MONTIEL CANTINA ROOFTOP & LA BOOM
JEAN SHAFIROFF EAST HAMPTON TV SHOW
Galerie Gmurzynska, owned by the glamorous gallerist Isabelle Bscher, is currently showing Love Is in the Air, works by Robert Indiana. The exhibition is both virtual and by appointment at the NYC gallery at 43 East 78th Street. The collection features work from 1959 to 2007, highlighting Indiana’s multi-faceted career. Also on view on the gallery’s website are exhibitions of Fernando Botero’s new watercolors and Andy Warhol’s Toy Paintings. Past events at Gmurzynska have been attended by the Billions star David Costabile, the artists Will Cotton and Anh Duong, Muffie Potter Aston, Grace Hightower, and Libbie Mugrabi.
The authentic Mexican restaurant Cantina Rooftop, at 605 W 48th Street, has opened its street-side cafe and its rooftop with a stellar view — adhering to social distancing. Patrons have included Sarah Jessica Parker, P. Diddy, and Alicia Keys. Cantina’s chef, Saul Montiel, has also created the menu for La Boom in Woodside, Queens, which features fan-favorites such as tableside guacamole, carne a la parrilla, enchiladas de pollo, and pastel de tres leches. The Cantina and La Boom founder, Pedro Zamora, has started MECENAS, a non-profit civil association that promotes Mexican art and culture. cantinarooftop.com
Jean Shafiroff has launched a weekly TV show on Channel 20 in East Hampton called Successful Philanthropy — a spinoff of her book Successful Philanthropy: How to Make a Life By What You Give. Shafiroff interviews CEOs who do good works, including Julie Ratner, founder of The Ellen Hermanson Foundation; John Bradham of Southampton Animal Shelter; Mirella Cameron-Reilley of Southampton Hospital; Wölffer Estates’ Joey Wölffer; Ana Oliveira of the NY Women’s Foundation. The show also featured the Evelyn Alexander Wildlife Foundation. Jean’s show airs every Wednesday at noon and Thursday, Friday, and Sunday at 9:30 a.m. jeanshafiroff.com
ISABELLE BSCHER
MATTHEW BRODERICK SARAH JESSICA PARKER
JEAN SHAFIROFF, JULIE RATNER
ANH DUONG, LUCAS BSCHER, KRYSTYNA GMURZYNSKA
ALICIA KEYS, SWIZZ BEATZ
JOEY WÖLFFER
MUFFIE POTTER ASTON, R. COURI HAY, GRACE HIGHTOWER, LIBBIE MUGRABI
NICOLE KIDMAN, KEITH URBAN
ANA OLIVEIRA
2020 VISION
Curators David Kratz and Stephanie Roach
On view
July 25December 27
Editor Emma Gilbey Keller Presented by New York Academy of Art at Southampton Arts Center
Insurance Sponsor
NEW YORK
ACA D E M Y OF ART
25 Jobs Lane Southampton, NY 11968 631.283.0967 southamptonartscenter.org
GALLERY HOURS:
Thursday-Sunday • 11 AM-5 PM
Artist Credit: Tim Okamura, Everybody VS Injustice, 2020, oil and acrylic on canvas, 90 x 88 inches
111 Franklin Street New York, NY 10013 212.966.0300 nyaa.edu
HOT SHOTS
T-BAR SOUTHAMPTON CELEBRATED ITS SECOND ANNIVERSARY
T-BAR OWNER TONY FORTUNA, LIANA SILVERSTEIN BACKAL, AMANDA BACKAL, ARTHUR BACKAL
Photography by Neil Tandy, and David Warren
T-Bar Southampton celebrated its second season in the East End with friends and family. Some notable attendees included T-Bar owner Tony Fortuna, RHONY Ramona Singer, Jean Shafiroff, Leesa Rowland, Lisa Maysonet, Arthur Backal and Liana Silverstein Backal, Michelle Herbert, ex-NFL player Chad Cascadden, as well as Diane and Alan Lieberman.
MICHELLE HERBERT, LEESA ROWLAND, LARRY WOHL
LISA MAYSONET
JEAN SHAFIROFF
THE 16TH ANNUAL HAMPTONS HAPPENING VIRTUAL CONCERT BENEFITTED THE SAMUEL WAXMAN CANCER RESEARCH FOUNDATION & HONORED COVID-19 FIRST RESPONDERS One of the Hamptons most popular summer charity events, the 16th Annual Hamptons Happening, went virtual this year with a concert featuring a medley of rock and pop performances by some of today’s favorite enduring and emerging artists. The charity concert benefitted the Samuel Waxman Cancer Research Foundation (SWCRF), and its cutting-edge research targeting the abnormal gene functions that cause cancer. The performer lineup included popstars Sophie Beem, Caly Bevier, and Rufus Wainwright, who returned to the Hamptons Happening from prior-year performances. From her home, Beem performed “Petty,” her new single released the day before. Also performing were Grammy-nominated pop star Sophie B. Hawkins; Constantine Maroulis, the Tonynominated star of Rock of Ages on Broadway; and Steven Reineke, musical director and conductor of the New York Pops. The award-winning a cappella group Pentatonix performed “Dreams.” The artists performed from their homes, the Covid-19 new normal.
BRADLEY, MARIA AND KENNETH FISHEL
MASTER OF CEREMONIES FROM NYC STUDIO
CHRIS WRAGGE, CBS2 NEWS
CHRIS ARLOTTA, MARIO PECORARO
ANTONELLA BERTELLO, AMELIA DOGGWILER, DANA ROMITA
HANNAFORD STUDIOS Art That Celebrates Water.
25 Chandler Square | Port Jefferson, NY | jenniferhannaford.com | (631) 413-0141
“Just For Kicks” 30”x 60” Oil on Linen
South Lake Tahoe
Ritz-Carlton, Lake House Tryptic, Private collection, 2017
Original art and custom commisions by Jennifer Hannaford 25 Chandler Square | Port Jefferson, NY | jenniferhannaford.com | (631) 413-0141
MAGO’S JOURNAL HAMPTONS ART IS A VIBE By MAGO
MAGO is an internationally acclaimed artist, specializing in graffiti and pop culture. He is also the curator at the RJD Gallery, specializing in Magical Realism, in Bridgehampton, and advises private clients. MAGO is experienced in the worlds of fashion, TV, video production, and photography, and this wealth of cultural knowledge he intends to use to inform this column.
H
amptons art is a vibe and it’s becoming an art movement. This article is near and dear to my heart because I’ve spent more than 20 years creating with fellow Hamptonites. I’ve been living in Sag Harbor, a historically interesting town with a lot of energy. This place has inspired my work, my point of view, and my direction. Really, the idea for the recent art show Bohemian City in Sag Harbor was born from my desire to build a community of creatives and artists right here in my own backyard and surrounding towns. Adam Umbach is both my friend and a fellow artist. He and I met in the Hamptons art fair scene. We both share the same passion and vision for artistry. And we both keep growing as creatives within this community. A recent interview is below.
just a solid color with an object. In the second series, the backgrounds are influenced by Gerhard Richter’s abstract paintings, where he’s pulling large amounts of oil with pieces of plexiglass. So mine is done in the same fashion, then incorporating an object within the atmosphere. And the third, which is what I’m interested in, is the use of my nondominant hand to make these gestural marks in the negative space of the minimalist paintings.
Describe yourself as an artist. I’m a contemporary painter based in Brooklyn. My primary focus is capturing realism in a minimalistic way.
Where do you see your career heading? I guess just forward. We’re expanding the studio next month. Your readers can contact me any time at adamscottumbach@gmail.com and schedule to come visit me.
Can you share what places have inspired you? I’ve lived in Maine, on an Island off mid-coast, also in East Hampton, and now in Brooklyn. I guess a lot of my influence comes from the water.
u Follow Adam Umbach on Instagram @a_umbach and see his work at aumbach.com.
What was a memorable art experience? I remember seeing Monet’s Haystacks series at The Art Institute [of Chicago] as a kid. And I remember romanticizing about being a painter, being an artist, knowing nothing about the struggles or difficulties of making a living from art. Tell us about the three different series you have produced. The first is what I referred to as the minimalist series, where it’s Adam Umbach
Adam Umbach, Sag Harbor, It’s a Vibe Oil, enamel, and oil stick on canvas. 54 x 78 in
Social Life
ART
MICHAEL MCDOWELL
Luciana Pampalone, Photography by David Warren
Michael McDowell is a gentleman artist that I met in 2002. He was the first artist I met here, at an artist dinner at a funky restaurant Saresings. I was very impressed by the artists that lived and created here, and Michael is a master artist with over 40 years of savoirfaire. If anyone knows the beauty of light in the Hamptons, it’s him. “McDowell’s paintings leave the door of perception open wide enough for plenty of personal interpretation.” In full circle now we get to share his stories and artworks with social life readers. You can see his work and schedule a studio viewing at michaelmcdowellstudio.com.
LUCIANA PAMPALONE Luciana Pampalone and I share much in common. As we have worked a bouquet of creative industries, including production, fashion, and fine art. We use all of our knowledge, experience and surroundings to create the artwork that we do. The artist says of her vision: “I am inspired by people, travel and nature. I photograph many women so the women become in essence self-representational in my imagery. Luciana is a high concept artist and is a walking installation. Check out her work and schedule a studio visit through lucianapampalonestudios.com. SocialLifeMagazine.com
AMY ZERNER & AUDREY FLACK
The magical world of Amy Zerner and Audrey Flack, two of the most interesting creators you will ever meet out East, is exhibiting GODDESSES — Here & Now displays multi media works by both of them. The exhibition runs from October 3rd through 18th. It opens Saturday October 3rd 6–8 p.m. at MM Fine Art 4 North Main Street, Southampton. The show will be up Thursday through Monday, 11 a.m. – 5 p.m., as well as Tuesday and Wednesday by appointment or chance (mask required). For more information, contact info@mmfineart.com or call 631.259.2274
ART
ART OUT & ABOUT BOHEMIAN CITY ART COLLECTIVE By Alex Lerner
Alex Lerner, MAGO, Nina Cooper
Chris Coffee
Adam Umbach, MAGO, Alex Lerner, Gabriel Aiello, Kim-Van Dang, Luciana Pampalone, Anthony Buscaino, Juan Cruz
April Byrd Richmond, Guest, Roger Richmond
Robert Mojo, Cynthia McEachern
Margo Manhattan, Luciana Pampalone, Consuelo Vanderbilt Costin
Ruth Miller, Katlean De Monchy, Marsin Mogielski, Adele Nino, Randi Schatz, Montgomery Frazier
Lestat Watley, Andrei Nazarov, Richie Rich, Nicolas Unerinveose Dmitry Alves Orlovskyi, Shelly Bromfield, Robert Fuhrer
Social Life
Photography by David Warren and Marsin Mogielski
B
ohemian City is a new art collective that was formed in the summer of 2019 and hit the ground running with its first event, by invitation, during Art Basel Miami 2019. This first event was generously hosted by the art collector and designer Chris Coffee. The founders — MAGO, Marsin Mogielski, and I — are creatives who are based in the Hamptons and NYC. Together we create art and curate one-of-a-kind art installations and pop-up experiences that we call “The art bazaar for the art connoisseur.” Following the successful event in Miami, our collective took over a raw space in the heart of Hudson Yards this past March 7–8. Saturday evening was a private viewing of the work of 12 artists. On Sunday afternoon, I moderated “Women’s Creative Panel,” comprising six creative women from different backgrounds. They discussed the importance and impact of art and creative expression in their lives. Our third, and most recent, Bohemian City installation is in partnership with HAVENS by KVD in Sag Harbor. The work of eight artists has been on view since July 16 and will continue through September 17. As creatives, we took on the challenge of continuing our work, yet, at the same time, ensuring that we followed safe protocols for social distancing. We want Bohemian City to be a collective of equal opportunity, and we expect Bohemian City installations to become global. accesshamptons.com
SANDY COHEN, FRENCH KISS, ACRYLIC AND OIL ON CANVAS, 48 IN. X 48 IN.
SANDY COHEN ART HAMPTONS
SCHEDULE A PRIVATE VIEWING OF RECENT WORKS BY SANDY COHEN
631.296.8272 SANDYCOHENART.COM @SANDYCOHENSART
ART
HAMPTONS VIRTUAL ART FAIR By R. Couri Hay
R
ick Friedman, the longreigning pioneer of the regional luxury art fair, is leading the Hamptons into the virtual world with an all-new, cutting-edge show: The Hamptons Virtual Art Fair (HVAF). The fair runs September 2–7 and is one of the nation’s first entirely 3D, virRick Friedman tual-reality-driven art fairs, with $100 million of art available for immediate acquisition from 70 well-known gallerists, and over a thousand works by the world’s most coveted artists. “I’ve been a producer of art fairs for 15 years,” said Friedman, who created Art Hamptons as well as fine art fairs in cities across the country. “When I saw all the shows and galleries closing because of Covid, I thought: ‘This is terrible! What’s the next best thing? A fair in a virtual reality setting.’ ” CAMPION PLATT: DESIGN CHAIRMAN Friedman worked with a team of digital experts to perfect the virtual userexperience. While many galleries rely on 2D thumbnails to show art in their virtual viewing rooms, Friedman created realistic 3D renderings for his fair, allowing visitors to explore booth to booth and view sculptures from every angle. “We were thinking about a Hamptons audience for this show, but we discovered that visitors were coming from all over the country,” said Friedman, who calls Southampton home. “We had Tatiana Platt, Campion Platt with family more than 12,000 visitors during the preview. That had never happened at a physical Art Hamptons fair.” Campion Platt has been named the design chairman of the fair, which includes a committee from the American Society of Interior Designers (ASID).
PIERRE-AUGUSTE RENOIR, CLAUDE MONET, PABLO PICASSO, FRANK STELLA & LINJIE DENG Friedman has also reimagined the curation process at the HVAF. Instead of focusing exclusively on post-war and contemporary artists, the virtual show features an eclectic array of artworks from numerous periods and genres, works from top names: Frank Stella, Claude Monet, Pierre-Auguste Renoir, M. C. Escher, Ernest Trova, Pablo Picasso, Deborah Butterfield, Lynn Chadwick, Raymond Jonson, Linjie Deng, and Robert Cenedella, to name just a few. Galleries at the fair include Casterline Goodman Gallery, Walker Fine Art, Addison Rowe Gallery, Charlotte Jackson Fine Art, Hollis Taggart, Greg Kucera Gallery, Peter Fetterman Gallery, and M.S. Rau. ARTIST HONOREES The futuristic VR fair will also honor three of Long Island’s greatest nonagenarian artists: Audrey Flack, 90, Lifetime Achievement in Painting and Sculpture; Elliott Erwitt, 92, Hamptons Recognition in Photography; and Richard Mahew, 96, Artist of the Year. Friedman explained, “No one has ever done this before. We’re proud to have created a really innovative way to come enjoy and buy art.” hamptonsvirtualartfair.com M.S. RAU Rebecca Rau, head of strategic development at M.S. Rau, brought 19th-and early 20th-century masterpieces to the virtual fair. “We have a large selection of art. Over time, a major portion of our collection moved into the 20th century, but we focus on art across history, with the 19th century being a historic strong suit,” Rebecca said. Rau is showing 19th-century gems by Claude Monet and Pierre-Auguste Renoir and 20th-century works by René Magritte and Norman Rockwell. “Hopefully, this event will help us meet Hamptonites and expose them to what we do, but since this is an online event, it’s open to people from anywhere,” Rebecca said. “I feel like we have the best of both worlds, between meeting new collectors and being able to share this project with our audience as well.” rauantiques.com Rebecca Rau, Bill Rau
Social Life
ART
ARTIST LINJIE DENG Among the most compelling of the featured international artists at the fair is the 28-year-old, critically acclaimed ChineseAmerican painter and master calligrapher Linjie Deng, whose work has been supported by the United Nations and shown both in China and at the Museum of Linjie Deng
Chinese in America. Deng is showing 25 diverse works, including social justice-inspired pieces, calligraphy, and abstract paintings. He will also offer his pandemic-influenced art, whose sales will benefit New York-Presbyterian Hospital’s frontline healthcare workers. The paintings carry slogans saying, “Wash Your Hands” and “Stay Home, Save Lives.” linjiedeng.com
ROBERT CENEDELLA The iconic artist Robert Cenedella, renowned for his paintings of celebrities at the legendary eatery Le Circ, is also showing at HVAF. Cenedella has been a part of New York’s art community for over four decades; thus, his paintings of people on subways, at symphonies, in sports areas, on the street, and drinking in restaurants are quintessentially New York. Cenedella had a critically-acclaimed documentary made about his life titled Art Bastard. rcenedellagallery.com OPENING LABOR DAY WEEKEND At a time when public health and safety limit our ability to gather or travel to our favorite art fairs, the Hamptons Virtual Art Fair helps fill that void. The virtual art fair will open on Wednesday, September 2 at 6 p.m. This opening night preview, a first look, runs until midnight. Admission is free. Visitors on opening night will receive thousands of dollars in discount coupons to redeem against fair purchases. The fair will then run continuously from Thursday, September 3 at 12:01 a.m. until Monday, September 7 at 6 p.m.
Hamptons Virtual Art Fair hamptonsvirtualartfair.com SocialLifeMagazine.com
HAMPTONS LIFE
Social Life
&
HOMES FIND YOUR HAMPTONS DREAM HOUSE
ESTATES LIVE THE HAMPTONS LIFE
HOME
HAMPTONS TOP POWER BROKERS BEACHFRONT MODERN MASTERPIECE By Blaire Bass
G
ary DePersia’s name has become synonymous with the best in Hamptons real estate. From Southampton to Montauk and from Sagaponack to Shelter Island, Gary has participated in over $3 billion of real estate transactions since 1995. With hundreds of his exclusive listings sold and closed, as well as matching hundreds of his own buyers and renters with the right properties, Gary’s 25 years in Hamptons luxury real estate has generated benchmark sales. You may have heard people refer to him in real estate circles as the “go-to man.” Gary realized early on the importance of deep local knowledge and the benefits of expert marketing, which other brokers have come to emulate. Knowing each buyer or renter has his or her own idea of what defines the Hamptons experience, he is well versed on the inventory of each village and hamlet on the East End.
To whet your appetite, take a look at this spectacular listing.
142 CRESTVIEW LANE SAGAPONACK $27,950,000 With elements of scale and architecture that could not be reproduced in this location today, a beautifully landscaped acre on Crestview Lane along 125 feet of Fairfield Pond plays host to a magnificent 14,000-square-foot, 8-bedroom modern estate recently completed near the ocean in Sagaponack. Masterfully scripted by Brian O’Keefe, the uber-talented architect elaborates on his process: “Fundamental principles of balance, proportion, function, and beauty were used to synthesize classical design principles with a contemporary aesthetic. The design employs stacked horizontal Social Life
HOME
bands that allow for different rhythms of openings and materials to occur independent of each other yet maintain a cohesive overall design. I envisioned a simple, bold, and balanced form that subdivides the property into areas for various outdoor functions, and simultaneously provides privacy yet maximizes openness and endless ocean views. The interior of the house is open and replete with a luxurious sophisticated palette of materials and the finishes are all exquisitely detailed.” O’Keefe muses about the outside: “. . . a spacious covered loggia provides for outdoor dining and the main level Foussena Grigia stone slab flooring extends out in all directions, blurring the line between indoor and outdoor.” The covered patio has an extensive built-in kitchen and comfortable seating overlooking the unique two-sided heated Gunite pool and nearby sunken fire-pit. All of this, topped with landscaping by Edmund Hollander, makes this property just simply spectacular. Corcoran Gary DePersia Licensed Associate Real Estate Broker gdp@corcoran.com myhamptonhomes.com 516.380.0538 SocialLifeMagazine.com
Southampton to Montauk... ...Sagaponack to Shelter Island Gary R. DePersia Licensed A s sociate Real Es t ate Broker m 516.380.0538 | gdp@corcor an.com
The Hamptons for Buyers, Sellers, Renters & Investors
11,000 SF Oceanside 2.5 Acre Estate on Iconic Beach Lane Wainscott. Reigning over 2.5+ acres, an impressive sea-side edifice sprawls along 230+ feet of beachfront on iconic Beach Lane. A flawless symphony of architecture, construction, landscape design and interior composition has resulted in a stunning opus comprised of 11,000+ SF on 4 tiers of living space. Masterfully conceptualized and executed by Barnes Coy Architects, Mayfair Construction, and Julia Roth Designs, this highly unique residence, in the words of Chris Coy, is “comprised of three separate pavilions... offering opaque surfaces of teak, stucco, granite and zinc that alternate with transparent swaths of tempered glass.” The central ‘pavilion’ is anchored on one end by the Bulthaup kitchen then flows into the dramatic great room, framed by walls of glass. The eastern ‘pavilion’ incorporates the den/media room and the perfectly appointed ocean view master wing. The western ‘pavilion’ is a two-tiered compilation of five guest suites, a rec room, pool bath and 4-car garage. A staircase descends to an expansive gym augmented by a luxe spa bath, a large room housing a golf simulator or possible screening room, and two staff suites, then ends back at the striking entry atrium with elevator. Outside the expansive deck offers a covered outdoor kitchen, dining and seaside living room plus ample space for lounging around the 72’ infinity edge pool / spa. Landscaping by the LaGuardia Design Group ties the estate together as a private walkway leads over the dune to 230’ of pristine white sands—all giving brilliant new meaning to the saying “if you’re lucky enough to live by the sea, you’re lucky enough. Exclusive. $52M WEB# 870070 Real estate agents affiliated with The Corcoran Group are independent contractors and are not employees of The Corcoran Group. Equal Housing Opportunity. The Corcoran Group is a licensed real estate broker located at 660 Madison Ave, NY, NY 10065. All listing phone numbers indicate listing agent direct line unless otherwise noted. All information furnished regarding property for sale or rent or regarding financing is from sources deemed reliable, but Corcoran makes no warranty or representation as to the accuracy thereof. All property information is presented subject to errors, omissions, price changes, changed property conditions, and withdrawal of the property from the market, without notice. All dimensions provided are approximate. To obtain exact dimensions, Corcoran advises you to hire a qualified architect or engineer.
HOME
A FIRST LOOK AT ICONIC
CARNEGIE CASTLE ESTATE By Ann Grenier
O
ne of Duchess County’s largest and most well-appointed mansions is now on the market and available for private tours. In 1927, Migdale Castle in the tony New York suburb of Millbrook was completed for Margaret Carnegie Miller, the daughter and only child of Andrew Carnegie. Seated on the highest tract of land in the area to offer unparalleled woodland and Catskill mountain views, the estate was modeled after Carnegie’s Skibo Castle in Scotland. After falling into a state of disrepair, the 200-acre estate was purchased and given a meticulous four-year renovation by the owners. Today, the one-of-a-kind mansion, in excess of 34,000 square feet, spans four floors, 29 rooms, 10 bedrooms, 17 baths, 12 fireplaces, and a professional kitchen. “From the time you pass the majestic gates, the princely estate commands respect. Immediately you realize you are somewhere special, winding up the private driveway. The moment you catch a glimpse of the house, you are hit with a sense of arrival. You appreciate its architectural and historical significance — an American treasure and true trophy property,” says Kenneth J. Moore, the exclusive agent and president of Classiques Modernes. “I would describe the house as being divided into four wings — each for a different member of this family, each with its own personality,” adds Loy Carlos, Classiques Modernes’ lifestyle & realty expert. “Great care was also taken to restore the windows, the great hall, and grand staircase to their former glory by importing stately materials from all over the world and covering the walls with exquisite French fabrics. Each room has a distinctive name — the Gold Room, the Red Room, the Blue Room, etc. It’s simply regal.”
On the main level overlooking the great lawn and breathtaking mountain views, the grand terrace was carved from bedrock to make a sweeping slope, envisioning a potential nine-hole golf course. Below, an entire floor has been dedicated to luxurious amenities, including a fully equipped spa featuring a treatment room, his-and-hers lockers, steam rooms and saunas, and a hot tub. But the pièce de résistance is the indoor edgeless pool with a glass wall overlooking the great lawn — it’s the largest single pane ever built. The pool also features a Desert Aire system, which keeps the temperature exactly two degrees above the water temperature so that you are never cold. The mansion also boasts a 5,000-bottle wine cellar, 13-seat media room, large fitness room/studio, golf simulator, distinguished library, and a pub with an authentic bar imported from the United Kingdom. “What people right away notice about the residence is that despite its enormous square footage, it doesn’t feel overwhelming,” observes Moore. About the land, Carlos adds that the abutting properties surrounding the estate are owned by Chanel’s Alain Wertheimer and Bulgari. “It’s hundreds and hundreds of sublime acres exclusively owned by some of the wealthiest and most private people in the world.” The expansive grounds — which can be sold at a premium with an additional 175 acres, for a total of nearly 400 acres — boasts multiple ponds with bridge walkways to private islands, a 5,000-square-foot three-bedroom gatehouse plus artist loft, a 10,000-square-foot sixapartment staff house, and a tennis court. The estate also features eco-elements like a massive organic garden with greenhouse, an enormous chicken coop, orchards, crop fields, deer fields, and hiking trails. classiquesmodernes.com/properties Social Life
The Reason To Return To Work 632 Broadway
renaissancepropertiesny.com For Leasing: JD Cohen O 212.850.5476 • M 203.858.6375
212 West 18th Street Lauded by The New York Times as the “architect
of
the
century,”
Ralph
Thomas Walker designed Walker Tower. Inside this top luxury building, a
LEONARD STEINBERG
LS@COMPASS.COM 646.375.1932 COMPASS.COM
resplendent four-bedroom + home office duplex has been completely transformed to achieve an unprecedented level of craftmanship and refinement.
212 West 18th Street At over 4,144 SF, the combination of two units has resulted in a one-of-a-kind floor plan offering the only home at Walker Tower with two private terraces. This sprawling townhouse in the sky, has stunning views of the iconic Manhattan skyline and Empire State Building. Represented by Leonard Steinberg at Compass and Vickey Barron at Corcoran.
VICKEY BARRON
VBARRON@COMPASS.COM 917.674.4347 COMPASS.COM
T R AV E L
PARIS IS ALWAYS A GOOD IDEA By R. Couri Hay
R. Couri Hay is the travel editor and society columnist for this magazine. Couri began his career at Andy Warhol’s Interview and he wrote for Town & Country and People. Couri also appears on CNN, PBS, FOX and VH1 commenting on Hollywood. He lives in NYC and Southampton and is the CEO of his own PR firm.
CITY OF LIGHT & ART If you are eager to escape NYC and go to Paris for some wining, dining, shopping, and museum expeditions, you will have to wait awhile before you can fly direct. You can book a flight to London, but you will need to quarantine (as of press time). I recommend Claridge’s, St. James, Rosewood, or the Goring for two weeks; then you can go to France! Once in the City of Light, you will find a buffet of interesting activities unlike anywhere else. Every season offers a different perspective, and once you get situated at the Ritz, the Hôtel Plaza Athénée, or the Four Seasons Hotel George V, you’ll find yourself effortlessly drifting from museum to restaurant and from the luxury stores of avenue Montaigne to the ChampsElysées. One realm in which this elegant, walkable city outshines perhaps any other is in its cultural offerings. Art, music, dance, opera, theater, and more are everywhere; the treasures to be found in its world-famous museums are unparalleled. You could easily spend a week exploring the art scene in Paris and barely scratch the surface. And with countless world-class exhibitions from around the globe making stops in Paris, there is always something new to see no matter how many times you visit. As the saying goes, Paris is always a good idea. After closing for several months due to the pandemic, most of Paris’s museums reopened by early July, but now require advance online booking for time-stamped tickets, to avoid crowds at check-in and throughout the galleries. Patrons are required to wear face masks while on the premises, naturellement. CHRISTO AT CENTRE POMPIDOU The Pompidou reopened on July 1 with a stellar retrospective dedicated to Christo and Jeanne-Claude’s Paris projects. Originally scheduled to open on May 13, but scuttled by the pandemic, the exhibition
is especially poignant as Christo died at age 84 this past May 31. This don’t-miss show through October 19 explores both the couple’s decade-long project to wrap the Pont Neuf as well as their Parisian peGallerist Isabelle Bscher, Christo riod from 1958 to 1964. The exhibition was originally scheduled to coincide with Christo’s newest monumental work, wrapping the Arc de Triomphe; however, that project has been moved to 2021, from September 18 through October 3. Christo said, “For me, the real world involves everything: risk, danger, beauty, and energy . . . The work of art is a scream of freedom.” Before he left this Earth, Christo hoped and instructed that all the projects he and Jeanne-Claude had planned but not completed should be accomplished posthumously. centrepompidou.fr
Christo, artist rendering for L’Arc de Triomphe, Paris
Social Life
T R AV E L
Christo and Jeanne-Claude, The Pont Neuf Wrapped, Paris, 1975-85
FRANCIS BACON Centre Pompidou had a masterful exhibition by Francis Bacon last year which examined the literary influences on his work. The Irish-born Bacon possessed an immense collection of books and said that literature was his “imagination material.” Bacon, who was always maddeningly vague about what influenced his painting, once said, “I need to visualize things that lead me to other forms, that lead me to visualize forms that lead me to other forms or subjects, details, images that influence my nervous system and transform the basic idea.” You can see works by Bacon in Paris at the Musée Cantini, Musée National d’Art Moderne, and the Fonds national d’art contemporain (FNAC). THE LOUVRE In Paris, special exhibitions abound and art lovers of every genre can find their niche. The Louvre reopened to the public on July 3. Two special exhibitions slated for October 2020, Body and Soul: Italian Renaissance Sculpture from Donatello to Michelangelo and Albrecht Altdorfer, a German Renaissance Master, have been postponed until January 2021. Few artists have universal appeal like Leonardo da Vinci, which the Louvre celebrated with an unprecedented retrospective in 2019, the 500th-year anniversary of his death. Considered a genius with interests in science, invention, architecture, mathematics, music, literature, botany, and geology, Leonardo is most famous as a painter. His masterworks include the Mona Agostino Zoppo, Atlas at The Louvre
SocialLifeMagazine.com
Lisa, permanently displayed in the Denon Wing of the Louvre. (His long-lost Salvator Mundi famously sold for a record $450.3 million in 2017.) “Painting is poetry that is seen rather than felt, and poetry is painting that is felt rather than seen,” Leonardo said. Whether there’s a blockbuster exhibition or not when you visit, the Louvre’s permanent collection is supreme. Don’t forget the magnificent Richelieu sculptures as well as the main galleries, which house some of the most important paintings in the world. louvre.fr/en.com THE CEILING BY CY TWOMBLY The Louvre in itself is a work of art and the beautiful ceilings are responsible for craning the necks of visitors. Those magnificent, ornate ceilings extend throughout the museum, as befits what was once the castle of French kings until 1682, when Louis XIV decamped and made the Palace of Versailles his royal residence. The Louvre served various purposes until 1793, when after the French Revolution it was declared a museum. The Louvre contains three especially famous ceilings, permanent works commissioned by the museum. In 1850, Eugene Delacroix created Apollo Slays the Python for the gilded ceiling of the Apollo Gallery; in 1953, Georges Braque’s The Birds made its nest on another ceiling, in the former king’s antechamber. In the Salle des Bronzes Antiques, not far from the Mona Lisa, you’ll find The Ceiling, created in 2010 by Cy Twombly, the first American artist to be invited to add a permanent work to the Louvre, one of France’s most cherished monuments. The Twombly commission, which depicts a blue sky with floating spheres inscribed with the names of Greek sculptors, purposefully integrates contemporary art into the historic space. MUSÉE DE L’ORANGERIE — MONET’S WATER LILIES The Musée de l’Orangerie reopened on June 22, with only Claude Monet’s Water Lilies accessible through the summer of 2020. I urge you to visit this museum and get lost within Monet’s gorgeous Nymphéas, or water lily cycle. Installed to the artist’s specifications, the eight panels, four in each of the two oval rooms immerse the viewer in water lilies, willow branches, and cloud reflections on water. Monet even took into consideration the natural light provided by the glass roof — the space was originally a greenhouse for citrus trees. The works themselves reflect sunrise in one room and sunset in the other, and take advantage of the light as it travels throughout the course of a day. MAGRITTE, MODIGLIANI, ROUSSEAU & CÉZANNE On September 16, the Giorgio de Chirico, Metaphysical Painting exhibition opens and runs through December 14. Originally scheduled for April, but delayed by the pandemic, the exhibition explores the many influences on de Chirico’s work, from avant-garde artists of his era to the cultural and literary circles of Paris. From February 10 to June 21, 2021, Musée de l’Orangerie along with Musée d’Orsay
T R AV E L
Claude Monet, Water Lilies, 1914–1926
will present Magritte in Full Sunlight: the Renoir Period, which explores René Magritte’s post-war work that was heavily inspired by Renoir. For the first time, it will compare the work of both artists, as well as more contemporary pieces by Francis Picabia, Jeff Koons, and others. The lower level of Musée de l’Orangerie contains a superb collection of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist works, with masterpieces by Pierre-Auguste Renoir, Pablo Picasso, Amadeo Modigliani, Maurice Utrillo, Paul Cézanne, Henri Rousseau, and Henri Matisse. As you pull yourself away from the Water Lilies, take time to stroll around outside, as the l’Orangerie’s setting is perfect, within the Tuileries Garden, one of Paris’s most beautiful parks, and near the Seine. Stroll over to the newly renovated Hotel Ritz for a sublime lunch.
René Magritte, The Menaced Assassin, Brussels 1927
MUSÉE D’ORSAY: THE LAND OF MONSTERS Just across the Seine from Musée de l’Orangerie lies its sister, Musée d’Orsay, housing mostly French art from 1848 to 1914, including the world’s largest permanent collection of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist paintings. With work of such magnitude, a tour through the Musée d’Orsay serves as a graduate course in art history. La musée reopened in late June, extending two special exhibitions that were interrupted by the pandemic. The Land of Monsters: Léopold Chauveau and James Tissot: Ambiguously Modern will both remain though September 13. At press time, the d’Orsay had a full slate of exhibitions planned, including Aubrey Beardsley scheduled for October 2020, Swiss Modernists for March 2021, and Impressionist Decorations for April 2021. FIAC ART FAIR Every fall, from October 22 to 25, the Grand Palais hosts the prestigious FIAC, the Foire internationale d’art contemporain, which draws top galleries from around the world showing the works of the most innovative and influential artists working in contemporary art. As of press time, FIAC is on schedule to hold the fair, but if the pandemic takes a turn for the worse, a cancellation is still possible. The Grand Palais will undergo major renovations, which will allow FIAC to add even more than the current 199 booths, beginning in 2024. fiac.com HOTEL GEORGE V The very best food and ambiance in Paris can be found at the Hotel George V and its celestial restaurant, Le Cinq. With its impeccably designed and decorated interiors, the Hotel George V is a delight to the senses, even if you’re simply Social Life
T R AV E L
Caviar Kaspia Potato
Musée d’Orsay
walking through the lobby, which is adorned with magnificent, wildly creative floral arrangements by the artistic director, Jeff Leatham. At the end of October, a marriage of red lilies and green hydrangea flowers magnify the holiday spirit. At Christmastime, the lobby of this elegant Four Seasons Hotel is a virtual forest of Christmas trees; some are magically suspended upside down in black padded leather and mirrored boxes. The hotel flies in 15,000 flowers each month from around the world for its inspired arrangements. fourseasons.com
Hotel George V
LE CINQ’S THREE MICHELIN STARS Le Cinq, George V’s three-Michelin-starred restaurant, headed by the chef Christian Le Squer, is just as spectacular, yet it’s the cuisine that attracts gourmets from around the world and takes your breath away. Le Cinq is a personal favorite of mine for a gourmet lunch. Spontaneous dinner reservations are rarely available; if you haven’t booked ahead, have your concierge reserve you a banquette for lunch. The roasted ceps mushrooms scented with Château-Chalon wine and the crispy sweetbreads are unparalleled; and if you’re there SocialLifeMagazine.com
in November during white truffle season, consider yourself lucky, because the dishes that include them are to die for. Your palette will land in Valhalla from the first inspired amuse-bouche to the moment the waiters lift off the silver domes to release the sublime aroma of white truffles wafting from a gold-leaf-lined bowl filled with a savory broth. restaurant-lecinq.com CAVIAR KASPIA A fun choice for dinner is Caviar Kaspia — a great place to have a party in the private room that holds up to 32 persons. The main course here is the titular caviar served in generous scoops on a baked potato, which is absolutely scrumptious. I also recommend the salmon served on a pancake, or the crab salad, all washed down with vodka and Champagne. A Paris institution since the 1920s, Caviar Kaspia offers a luxurious, Old World Russian experience in a sumptuous setting of richly paneled walls and magnificent table settings. Perennially popular with both locals and visitors, this place is far from stuffy — it is always fully booked during Fashion Week and regularly collaborates with fashion designers and artists like Giambattista Valli, Olympia Le-Tan, and Carine Roitfeld. Celebrities like Jennifer Lawrence, Rihanna, Beyoncé, and Jay-Z have all dined here. In addition to the exquisite restaurant, there’s a shop offering a range of caviars, seafood, smoked fish, and gourmet foods. thecaviarkaspiagroup.com NOTRE DAME Visiting Notre Dame Cathedral is equal parts heartbreaking and hopeful, as it stands scarred with the destruction of last year’s devastating fire; however, scaffolding signifies a rebirth as construction commences on the cathedral to restore it to its former glory. TOP HOTELS If you’re not staying at a friend’s palatial hôtel particulier in the Quai d’Orsay like I did, the top hotels remain the Ritz, the Plaza Athénée, the Four Seasons George V, and the Crillon. The latter re-opened on August 24 after extensive renovations. I love visiting all the hotels for breakfast, lunch, tea, cocktails, or dinner because they all teem with vigor and attractive people. ritzparis.com
T R AV E L
THE LODGE AT WOODLOCH ULTIMATE IN PEACE & SERENITY By Briana Morgan
S
urrounded by 500 acres of private woodland in the Pocono Mountains, The Lodge at Woodloch is a slice of luxury spa and wellness heaven. Only two and half hours from Manhattan, this center of serenity will calm your stressed, overworked, and cooped-up nerves in a New York moment. Guests stroll around in plush white robes, athletic wear, and even pajamas, as they unwind, de-stress, and bliss out on spa treatments, wellness pools, gourmet culinary delights, and a list of activities throughout the day. The Lodge at Woodloch will keep you active, help you reconnect with nature, tap into your inner artist, and so much more. With high vaulted ceilings, warm-toned wood interiors, and elegantly rustic decor, The Lodge at Woodloch feels worlds away from the urban jungle many guests come here to escape. Children under 16 are not allowed at the resort, making it a sanctuary where couples and singles are free to recline in big, comfy lounges in front of crackling fires or on hammocks snuggled into the woods. The leafy nature trails, manicured gardens, and the labyrinth garden sit aside the peaceful 15-acre lake. The all-inclusive package allows you to relax and just take it all in without fretting over the final bill.
RESTFUL ROOMS Comfy and classic rooms feature marble walk-in showers and views from a private veranda overlooking the woodland garden and private lake or the rock garden waterfall. FAB FOOD Elevated among the tree-tops with glimpses of the glistening private lake, TREE Restaurant and Bar offers a creative and diverse menu that caters to specific dietary needs — including vegan. Starting with only the best ingredients — some of which are grown on the property — the chef and team hand select naturally-raised meats, fish, and organic, locally grown vegetables. SENSATIONAL SPA The spa is a sanctuary for the senses. Whether relaxing in the co-ed Whisper Lounge, enjoying the Aqua Garden’s hydromassage water walls or activity pool with floor-to-ceiling windows surrounded by nature, you are sure to melt your troubles away. The spa offers a vibrant variety of treatments, massages, facials, and salon services. Social Life
T R AV E L
ACTIVITIES GALORE A long list of activities available from 6 a.m. until 9 p.m. include everything from nature walks, yoga, Pilates, meditation with mala beads, watercolor painting, kayaking, and chakra bracelet-making; the list just goes on and it’s all optional! COVID-19 SAFETY FIRST The property proactively follows the best practice guidelines and hospitality service protocols issued by the CDC, World Health Organization (WHO), OSHA, and national and SocialLifeMagazine.com
local government advisors. In addition to an on-site certified safety director, the property has contracted with East Coast Risk Management to assist in establishing effective health and safety protocols at the resort. East Coast holds ongoing trainings for their service team and has a strict prevention program to ensure that any staff with signs of an illness stay home until cleared for work by medical professionals. The Lodge at Woodloch thelodgeatwoodloch.com
FOOD & WINE
RESTAURATEUR: PAULO WEI ASIAN FARM-TO-TABLE: DELIVERED By R. Couri Hay of the farm’s extensive gardens or order a catered farm-to-table lunch by appointment. “Our Kitchen Farm is all about chillax vibes for city people,” says Wei, whose fully staffed farm will eventually see its 80 horse stables transformed into a boutique hotel with Japanese-style tatami floors.
OUR KITCHEN You may not be able to hop on an intercontinental flight to mainland China or Hong Kong for a taste of the world’s best Asian food. But that doesn’t mean you can’t have an intimate experience with a global food culture during Covid. Paulo Wei, the owner of the East Village Asian eatery Our Kitchen, is debuting a new farm-to-table delivery service from his Upstate New York farm that will transport you to the other side of the planet. “It’s like an Asian Blue Hill Farm,” says Wei, a 25-year-old Columbia University sophomore, who was born in São Paulo and raised between Hong Kong and Beijing. “We have our 14th Street restaurant and now we have a working farm Upstate, which is all about the process of planting the seed, growing the food, and delivering it to the table. That is how you make really authentic Chinese food.” EAST VILLAGE RESTAURANT The 43-acre farm situated along the Neversink River outside Port Jervis will supply Wei’s Our Kitchen with just-picked seasonal Asian ingredients for fresh and frozen prepared foods. Better still, the farm will ship flash-frozen delicacies to the city — or even deliver them to the Hamptons. Think items like beef and farm-grown carrots for dumplings, organic vegetable buns, and home-made tofu. Wei has also opened an on-site farm stand where Our Kitchen Farm devotees can shop for fresh ingredients. Guests can take free private tours
THE FARM’S GARDENS On a tour of the gardens, guests can experience firsthand how farmers cultivate products using traditional and contemporary techniques. For instance, calming music is piped Oriental Berries Crepe throughout the farm to aid the growing process. Crops include everything from eggplants, chives, scallions, and radishes to more exotic ingredients like the onionflavored young leaves of the Chinese toon tree. Fermentation is a big part of Chinese cuisine, so Wei is happy to teach visitors about the fermentation process and its health benefits. But the real foodie focus at Our Kitchen is dumplings, both meat and vegetarian. “The idea started with my grandmother,” says Wei. “We had always said, ‘One day let’s open a restaurant that serves the food we eat, homemade Chinese food.’ Dumplings are a symbol of family in China.” ECO-DESTINATION Wei didn’t create his dream eco-retreat overnight. After his mother purchased the farm, he saw that it had the potential to become something special. It boasted two large houses, and an Olympic-sized horse arena. It had good soil and water views. Piece by piece he began building a one-of-kind farm and eco-destination. He had some restaurant experience, but Wei also had help. He tapped the expertise of his friends, who are some of the best Asian restaurateurs and chefs in NYC. “Now we have a serious food brand, great service, and incredible products.” However, Wei says the core of his mission is to educate. “Americans are only exposed to commercial Chinese food,” says Wei. “But real Chinese food culture is aligned with the movement of the universe, the flow of energy, the rotation of the earth, and seasonal changes.” Social Life
ANDREA CORREALE Entertaining Expert, Founder & CEO of Elegant Affairs
ENTERTAINING MADE SIMPLE Southampton 631 324 9825 · Glen Cove 516 676 8500 · Manhattan 212 991 0078 ElegantAffairsCaterers.com
Photo credit: Judy Walker
“Enter taining small groups of close family and friends is going to be big this Summer. So, we decided to launch a PART Y BOX COLLECTION of delicious catered food that is delivered to your doorstep. We offer BRUNCH BOXES, BBQ BOXES, SURF & TURF BOXES, and many more.”
P LANNING A GATHERING?
delicious cuisine, stylish presentation, impeccable service Prefer party food dropped off? Introducing...
PART Y IN A BOX
OFF-PREMISE CATERING for your HOME, BUSINESS or VENUE Southampton 631 324 9825 · Glen Cove 516 676 8500 · Manhattan 212 991 0078 ElegantAffairsCaterers.com
FOOD & WINE
ARTY & ANYA DOZORTSEV THE NEW POWER COUPLE By Inna DeSilva
A
rty Dozortsev does not remember this, but I met him when he was only four years old, while we were both growing up in the rough and tumble neighborhood of Coney Island. Even then he was hanging out with a girl who was older and taller. We both became reacquainted again in the 1990s when Arty was known for throwing huge bashes at his fabulous apartment in the Financial District. There were always tons of pretty girls and all the usual suspects, including European playboys with long names and longer titles. After college, Arty followed his father, Eugene, into the family business. Their large distribution company, Dozortzev & Sons Enterprises, is based in Elizabeth, New Jersey. Such popular brands as Alacrán tequila, Forever Young wines, and Saint Arturo are distributed by Dozortzev & Sons and carried by the trendiest of restaurants, such as Scarpetta, Tao Downtown, and every Serafina. But now to get to the love story, which is my main objective. We, who know Arty well, were used to the ever-revolving door of girlfriends. All of them pretty, young, and so in love with him. Then along came Anya, tall and as gorgeous as a Grecian goddess. They were introduced by a friend, but she was warned early on by her girlfriends that he would never be serious. So, Anya, who is a serious young woman, decided there must be something to a guy if everyone has an opinion about him . . . and that she would
make up her own mind. After six months of dating, Anya — who moved here from Moscow, where she had been an established real estate professional — decided there was, indeed, something to Arty Dozortsev, and she moved in with him. Five years later the lovebirds tied the knot. In addition to Anya and Arty working together in the Dozortsev & Sons successful liquor business, they are also running IKRAA Caviar. This second-generation premium caviar company was started by Arty’s dad, Eugene Dozortsev. The hip brand has been delivering caviar to the rich and famous since the pandemic started. Various types of premium caviar are available from IKRAA. A tasting set starts at $320. The VIP package, which starts at $1,600, can be at your abode out East within four hours of ordering. This package includes blinis, truffle butter, and mother-of-pearl spoons. Outside NYC and the Hamptons, orders can arrive via free overnight shipping. You can order via the website, listed below. Bon appetit! ikraacavier.com info@ikraacavier.com 646.934.1070 Social Life
FOOD & WINE
HOSTING THE PERFECT EVENT, DESPITE THE TIMES PARTNERING WITH YOU TO HOST UNFORGETTABLE & SAFE EVENTS By Lisa Baron
D
ecco Event Rentals has cracked the code for hosting pandemic-era parties. With an influx of late requests as people became more comfortable with moving forward to host gatherings, the experts at Decco quickly got up to speed and figured out how to best serve their clients in this new world of Covid-caution. And they have far exceeded all of our expectations. In fact, many agree that Decco’s smaller events outshine even the spectacular, show-stopping extravaganzas of the past. How are they doing this? The dapper is in the details! A perfect example of this is how Decco custom-builds tables and chairs to fit the essence of each event. Decco made lemonade from lemons by using the downtime early in the pandemic to create new lines of bespoke tables to offer new and exciting looks for their clients. Social Life
FOOD & WINE
Some suggest that events (and details) that are intimate are leaving a more profound and lasting impression on guests. “This may be the new event normal even when we get past all of this,” shared a recent Decco client. From fundraisers to weddings, corporate events, and bar/ bat mitzvahs, Decco Event Rentals, a subsidiary of Party Up Productions, plans and executes a party like you’ve never seen before. They’re simply the best. With an incredible team and over 20 years of experience, they turn your ideas into reality so that your once-in-a-lifetime experience is truly unforgettable. An all-inclusive production company, they handle it all for you. From rentals to custom fabrication, lighting, and overall atmosphere, no matter what crowd you are catering to, Decco Event Rentals is sure to help you impress. Decco Event Rentals deccobypartyup.com SocialLifeMagazine.com
FOOD & WINE
T-BAR SOUTHAMPTON CLASSIC CUISINES WITH A MODERN TWIST RETURN TO THE EAST END
Photo by Neil Tandy
By Harry Brads
A
fter a successful 2019 summer season, the team from T-Bar Steak and Lounge returned for a successful 2020 summer in Southampton. Just like its sister restaurant on New York’s Upper East Side, T-Bar Southampton offers guests outstanding cuisine in a casual yet elegant space, and the outdoor terrace and garden make it the quintessential location for evening cocktails on warm summer evenings. Despite this year’s challenges for restaurants, T-Bar Southampton is ready to serve the best classic cuisines with a modern twist. To comply with strict CDC and Health department guidelines, T-Bar Southampton’s outside patio dining is adequately spaced to maintain social distancing, and for those still hesitant about eating out, T-Bar Southampton is also offering takeout options.
Steak Tartare
With Tony Fortuna and the executive chef Segundo Pelaez leading the way, T-Bar Southampton builds on the well-earned reputation of its New York City namesake. The menu features a wide range of dishes, ranging from superb renditions of classics to refined and inventive plates, providing the ultimate dining experience. Diners can begin their meal at T-Bar Southampton with the flavorful thin crust pizza Margherita or meatballs. The restaurant also has tantalizing salad dishes such as watermelon salad with feta cheese, tomatoes, and balsamic vinaigrette. Also available on its delectable appetizer menu are the popular crispy sushi, yellowfin tuna tartare, and Vietnamese shrimp roll. A meal at T-Bar Southampton would not be complete without ordering a favorite from the steak bar, which features an impressive range of superbly-cooked, certified Black Angus cuts of beef, including Black Angus porterhouse for two served with your choice of béarnaise, au poivre, or steak sauce. The menu also boasts numerous other American classics, including the signature crusted tuna served with soy, wasabi rémoulade, and seaweed salad and the chicken Milanese served with chopped salad and lemon. Cap the evening off with irresistible desserts like the must-try banana parfait mille feuille with coconut and caramel sauce or the decadent strawberry sundae served with shortcake, meringue, brandy, and cream. T-Bar Southampton 268 Elm Street, Southampton 631.283.0202 tbar2gosouthampton.com Instagram @tbarsouth Social Life
“Where food meets family” 28 Lido Blvd, Point Lookout, NY 11569 www.monelisapizza.com • 516-432-0000
FOOD & WINE
UNION SUSHI & STEAK RESTAURATEUR IAN DUKE OPENS THIRD SOUTHAMPTON HOTSPOT
Photo by Rob Rich | SocietyAllure.com
By Elizabeth Elston
Crab & Avocado Sushi Roll
A
fter months indoors, the Hamptons are getting the perfect spot to blow off steam. This summer, partners Ian Duke and David Hilty, the owners of the ever-popular Southampton Social Club and Union Burger Bar, have unveiled the East End’s hottest new dining destination: Union Sushi & Steak, a modern take on the steakhouses of old. Situated in the historic Bowden Square property that formerly housed the famous Herb McCarthy’s, and co-located with Union Burger Bar, Union Sushi & Steak manages to fuse the energy of a supper club from the days of old with a modern ambiance. The cuisine is brought to you by the award-winning chefs Scott Kampf and Marc Fasciana, each of varied fame and tenures. The delectable menu features dry-aged steaks that are courtesy of Niman Ranch in Colorado, and the assorted fresh sushi and sashimi menu is both enticing and inventive.
Ribeye Steak
“We created Union Sushi & Steak because it’s what the people of Southampton are asking for,” Duke said. “Southampton has no year-round sushi restaurants and there is not a dedicated steakhouse. Right now, it’s a trek for a real roll-up-your-sleeves steakhouse dining experience.” Meanwhile, Duke’s award-winning burgers and fries spot, Union Burger Bar, will continue to serve up American comfort food in the adjacent space. As with the Southampton Social Club, Union Sushi & Steak has that supper club feeling, albeit, for the more sophisticated. Picture this: dinner starts to wrap up, the keys on the baby grand start to dance, the DJ’s music starts to intoxicate you, and the cocktails set the tempo. Since its opening, the new restaurant has received rave reviews and intends to bring the very best supper club experience throughout the year. Ian Duke is also excited about his other all-new dining venture, Baylander Steel Beach, which once was a Vietnam Era aircraft carrier, and most recently a helicopter-landing training vessel. The Baylander HLT has now docked at the 125th Street West Harlem Piers and is on active duty as a riverfront bar and restaurant, crewed by Ian Duke’s team from Prohibition, Union Sushi & Steak, and Union Burger Bar. Open Tuesday through Thursday from 3 to 10 p.m., Friday from 3 to 11: 00 p.m., Saturday from 1:30 to 11:30 p.m., and Sunday from 1:30 to 10:30 p.m., Baylander Steel Beach offers the perfect escape from the summer heat of the city to enjoy food and cocktails on the waterfront. Union Sushi and Steak 40 Bowden Square, Southampton dineatunion.com Social Life
PROFILES
R . DONAHUE PEEBLES REAL ESTATE ENTREPRENEUR R. DONAHUE PEEBLES MAKES 2020 POWER 100 LIST By Elizabeth Darwen
R.
Donahue Peebles, chairman and CEO of The Peebles Corporation, has been named to the Commercial Observer’s 2020 Power List 100 and graces the cover celebrating his achievement. Of the 100 Power Players, Don Peebles is recognized as the highest ranked African-American real estate titan in America today. The Power 100 list, in its 13th year, is a highly respected, annual compilation of commercial real estate’s most powerful players, and it recognized Peebles as “remaining one of the most prominent Black power brokers in real estate.” In addition, his focus on providing economic leadership to minority communities often leads to Don Peebles being touted as a potential political leader in New York City. The Peebles Corporation, founded in 1983, is a privately held national real estate investment and development company specializing in residential, hospitality, retail, and mixed-use commercial properties. With a portfolio of active and completed developments valued in excess of $6 billion in the gateway cities of New York, Boston, Philadelphia, Washington D.C., Charlotte, Miami, San Francisco, and Los Angeles. Over the course of more than 35 years, The Peebles Corporation has developed high-profile assets guided by the principles of its trademarked program, Affirmative Development, to help empower women and minorities and close the wealth gap. The $500 million initiative launched recently by the Peebles Corporation aims to target investment in commercial and multi-family development projects in the $10–$70 million range where the developers are minority or woman-led. Says Don Peebles of the fund, “The issue of equal economic opportunity for African-Americans has become more of a topic in the business community and as a result we’ve seen a signifi-
cant interest in our concept, in our entire platform in fact, in terms of raising equity and providing equity to minority and women developers.” As part of the celebration of this year’s Power 100 List, on September 15, 2020, Commercial Observer will be hosting a live premium virtual gala, “Power Forward,” in support of Power List participants’ charities. Don Peebles nominated one of the many charities he is associated with, The New York Mission Society, and is auctioning several items, including a speaking engagement to discuss the signature differences of The Peebles Corporation, i.e., its focus on diversity and engendering economic inclusion and engagement by minorities.
The Peebles Corporation 212.355.1655 peeblescorp.com Social Life
PROFILES
CAFÉ TABAC HAUTE SOCIAL LIFE NOSTALGIA By George Wayne Exclusive Archive Images by Sante D’Orazio Photography by David Warren
Naomi Campbell, Stephanie Seymour
Roy Liebenthal
Kara Young, Naomi Campbell, Stephanie Seymour
H
Stephanie Seymour, Roy Liebenthal
aute social life in Manhattan circa 1992 through 1997 revolved around one legendary yet underrated restaurant on 9th Street in the East Village, Café Tabac. It was the creation of the former Wilhemina male model Roy Liebenthal and one of his best friends, Ernie Santaniello. They had no idea when they opened a little joint in the East Village that it would actually turn into the Elaine’s of the Downtown demimonde. Café Tabac converged with the height of the true supermodel era. It was really the clubhouse of The Quartet — Naomi, Christy, Linda, Kate. If the supernovas were in town and not at work in some exotic location, you could find them letting their hair down at Café Tabac on any given day of the week. Of course, where the supermodels went, the uber rock stars, the fashionistas, and the Hollywood Alisters were not far behind. Every night was a scene at Café Tabac. And I would know because I was basically the in-house reporter. We hadn’t seen each other in a year, so yours truly decided it was time, as we reflect during this pandemic, to take a visit to Sag Harbor to visit with a decades-long friend, to catch up and recall the true glory days of New York City and the glamorous nights, many of which were spawned from the incredible face-place he created at the SocialLifeMagazine.com
Roy Liebenthal, Ray Brown, Sante D’Orazio
George Wayne, Roy Liebenthal
height of ’90s nightlife in New York City. Recently, on a flawless Sunday evening we met at my absolute favorite refuge in Sag Harbor, the patio of the Baron’s Cove Hotel on West Water Street. Over Champagne mimosas, beer, and lobster rolls, we sat to reminisce. I reminded Roy that I was the Café Tabac diarist. My December 14, 1993, entry noted my cat fight with Naomi Campbell and my September 1, 1995, entry noted Ellen Degeneris celebrating her new TV sitcom and playing pool with Joely Fisher. Today Roy Liebenthal lives in Sag Harbor year round with his wife and two teenage daughters. Roy is a regular at Hamptons art galleries. A long-time collector of works by Richard Prince, he has recently become a collector of George Condo, and had, in fact, just bought a new Condo. Roy isn’t on social media at all. He says he’s from “the analogue era” and likes it that way. The days of Café Tabac and bold-faced names from Madonna to Barbra Streisand, from Valentino to Bono are in this past. The one interruption to his idyllic Hamptons lifestyle is Rolling Stones concerts. He said, “I try to see a Rolling Stones concert every chance I get. I have seen the Rolling Stones live twentyfive times.”
PROFILES
THE FRIARS CLUB A RENAISSANCE AT THE MONASTERY By R. Couri Hay FRIARS CLUB REINVENTING ITSELF FOR A NEW GENERATION If you walked into the Friars Club in the early 1960s you might have seen Marilyn Monroe drinking martinis with Sammy Davis Jr., or you might have walked into Eddie Fisher’s bachelor party the night before he married Elizabeth Taylor. This NYC club, started in 1904, evolved from a meeting place (the monastery) with tribute dinners to its famous roasts beginning in 1950. Members have the monastic titles of friar, dean, and abbot. The club began to admit Friars Club women in the late 1980s, but had sometimes roasted them beginning in 1953.
We have to speak the language of today’s generation. We want people who love our history, but we don’t want them to do what Sammy, Dean, and Frank did. We want them to do what they do.” THE MILLENNIALS But how does an older private club that has a dedicated pinochle room and Larry King as its dean learn to speak the language of milThe Friars member Geraldo Rivera, and The Friars Club VP Arthur Aidala lennials? It was time to rethink everything. Over the Martin Luther King Jr. Day holiday, a water pipe burst, causing significant damage to the Renaissance-style mansion, the club’s home since 1957. The club was forced to close; then Covid-19 struck. The future of the 116-year-old club looked less than certain. But the disaster presented opportunity. “It was the perfect time to do a muchneeded renovation,” says Aidala. The club is currently receiving an extensive top-to-bottom overhaul, which is being overseen by board members and a committee, including Warren
Originally, the club’s members were from Broadway, and then membership expanded to various entertainment fields, sports, politics, journalism, entrepreneurs, and restaurateurs. But the approximately 650-member club is moving in a new direction. Arthur Aidala, an attorney and the Friar Club’s vice president says, “The monastery is having a renaissance. We were the show business culture of the Copacabana, Miami Beach, and Las Vegas. But what the club has to do is reflect the language people speak and that changes from generation to generation. Marilyn Monroe
Warren Handelman
Social Life
PROFILES
Handelman and Arthur Aidala and an executive committee that includes Jeffrey Citron, Howard Weis, and Natalie White. “Beyond the flood damage, the club needed a facelift physically, emotionally, intellectually, and spiritually. It needed a rebirth. That is what we are in the process of doing,” says Aidala. FRANK SINATRA AND DEAN MARTIN TO ROBIN WILLIAMS AND JERRY SEINFELD The club was always a reflection of the entertainment industry. In 1947, it opened an annex, since closed, in Los Angeles, because TV production had moved to the West Coast. At times the face of entertainment meant Alan King and Ed Sullivan and The Rat Pack at other times it meant Robin Williams and Jerry Seinfeld. But for a long time now the club has admittedly been out of step with the lives of the industry’s up and comers. “We survived, but with a lot of bruises,” says Aidala. “The halcyon period of our club was from the mid-1950s to the 1970s. That’s when the culture changed. Show business moved from New York to Los Angeles. We became exemplary of a culture that was sort of frowned at and looked at uncomfortably by Baby Boomers. We weren’t cool. We weren’t the culture of Woodstock.” More recently still, the club has seen its base of membership age and — you guessed it — move to Florida. “We survived with older members for the past 20 years,” says Aidala. “It was kind of a wasteland time. But then something curious happened. We were finding that millennials think that the period we are so exemplary of is kind of cool. They listen to Frank, Dean, and Sammy singing. All of a sudden we were kind of cool with the kids.” Aidala points to the fact that iconic red sauce joints like Rao’s, Forlini’s, and Carbone are suddenly cool with young people — especially the kind of young people who can afford a private club and work in entertainment in some capacity. “Young people are interested in experiencing and recapturing a moment in time that we are a part of,” he says. “Everybody loves the idea of the Friars but the building and what we offer is not in keeping with what young people want in a social club. So, we decided that this was the time to take this moment and reinvent ourselves physically to match the coolness of our spirit.” THE FRIARS REOPENING When the club reopens early next year, the board expects a whole new generation to rediscover the Friars. While being
respectful to the building’s history, the renovation will create flexible work and lounge spaces, where a member can grab a coffee and work on a laptop. Gone are four soups of the day and three-martini lunches. The dining room will debut an updated menu and will be a more casual space, ideal for a long business meeting or a quick bite. Millwork from the 1970s and faded veneers are being stripped Natalie White, down to reveal long-hidden hardBoard of Governos woods. “There was a time that the gym and the steam room were a very big part of the Friars,” says Aidala. “But the fact is that younger people are not going to work out in our gym. They are going to work out at the gym in their home or at Equinox. Young people don’t sit in steam rooms every afternoon. Nobody sits and has two-hour business lunches with cocktails. Those are cultural things that have changed.” Naturally some old-timers have bristled at the changes. But Aidala points out that growing pains are called that for a reason. “When the club reopens, it is going to be very different,” Aidala says. “But that’s just growth. We still want people of this generation who go ‘Wow!’ at the fact that Frank Sinatra was the abbot here, and that Jerry Lewis and Alan King were at our bar every night. The Friars has to offer something to all of its members, no matter how young, and that is exactly what it’s going to do.” The Friars Club friarsclub.com
Marvin Scott
SocialLifeMagazine.com
PROFILES
FREEMA GOTTLIEB MAKING BIBLICAL STORIES COME ALIVE By Briana Levy
I
n her writing and teaching, Freema Gottlieb has the gift of knocking out all the stuffiness people frequently project onto Judaism by making Bible stories and tales of the early rabbis come alive. Her background and scholarly education have contributed to her achievement, while her enthusiasm is her own. On her mother’s side, Freema is the daughter of an illustrious line of rabbis going back to King David, including Rashi, Nachmanides, and the Maharal. Her father was a great educator, receiving ordination from ten of the greatest rabbis in pre-World War II’s Austro-Hungarian Empire. He founded the Youth Aliyah School of Vienna, from which he helped hundreds of Jewish children emigrate before World War II. Rabbi Gottlieb himself fled with his wife to the United Kingdom, where he became a communal rabbi and head of the Scottish rabbinical court. Freema was educated in Scotland and delighted in stories of Scottish heroes as well as Biblical tales told by her father. Winning a top scholarship to Girton College, University of Cambridge, Freema studied English literature and did her doctoral work on Leonard and Virginia Woolf, after which she worked in the newsroom of the BBC World Service and as an editor for London’s Jewish Chronicle. Her articles have appeared in European Judaism, the Times Literary Supplement, the New York Times Book Review, and Partisan Review, among others. After immigrating to the United States, Freema worked for the American Jewish Joint Distribution Committee, an international Jewish relief organization, and she traveled to Czech communities and to Eastern Europe teaching midrash and the Bible. She is a frequent contributor to the Jewish Week’s commentary on the weekly Torah reading. Her book Lamp of God: A Jewish Book of Light was applauded by Bible scholars and many others. One reviewer noted that it “was the kind of book that had to be written and came from the deep sources of both the author herself and the Jewish tradition. It’s both a very conservative book in love with roots
and the nuances of Orthodox tradition.” He went on to emphasize her “entirely radical, free-thinking work gives a sense of understanding Bible stories and ritual practices in a way they have never been understood before.” Elie Wiesel wrote to Freema personally: “I love this book, especially the chapter on light out of darkness.” When the Nobelist Isaac Bashevis Singer was going blind, he apparently had Freema’s book read aloud to him by his assistant. Through her knowledge and understanding of midrash and later interpretations, Freema makes the Bible and Jewish ritual truly come alive. (Rabbi Lord) Jonathan Sacks, chief rabbi emeritus of the United Kingdom, endorsed the work as “the exceptional work of a unique Jewish thinker of our time.” The response to Freema’s teaching has been equally enthusiastic. The program director at The Skirball Center for Adult Jewish Learning at Temple Emanu-el said it was wonderful to hear students mention gaining a whole new meaning, not only of individual stories, but of the Bible and of Jewish spirituality, from her teaching. Students wrote that it made them realize that such texts can’t be taken at first reading, explaining “Dr. Gottlieb presented a perspective that was totally new.” u Freema’s book is available as a Kindle edition on amazon.com. Her talks on the weekly Torah reading may be found on YouTube under Freema Gottleib.
Social Life
PROFILES
LAUREN JENAI CROSSFIT CO-FOUNDER SPEAKS OUT By R. Couri Hay
FITNESS FRONTIERSWOMAN Fitness frontierswoman and freedom fighter Lauren Jenai has the pulse of the now. Call it cosmic energy. Call it karma. Call it kismet. Some people have a way of occupying a moment in time. But if there was ever someone who tried to be there in every moment at every time, it would be Lauren Jenai. When fitness became a lifestyle in the 2000s, Jenai was there to ride the wave with CrossFit. The company she pioneered with her ex-husband, Greg Glassman, grew from just 13 gyms in 2005 to 13,000 by 2016. Jenai built CrossFit into one of the most valuable and recognizable fitness brands in the world. THE TREEHOUSE MURDERS When True Crime became America’s latest obsession, Jenai wasn’t watching Netflix specials. She was already waist-deep in a murder drama worthy of the podcast sensation Serial. In 2017, Jenai received word that her childhood friend Franklin Tyrone Tucker, known as Ty, was in jail in Key West accused of murder. After researching the case, she became convinced that Tucker had been falsely accused and was the victim of a corrupt, small-town police department. Divorced from Glassman in 2013, Jenai sold her half of CrossFit for $20 million. Since then she has spent her time and resources proving Tuck-
er’s innocence. Then — despite the possibility that Tucker could serve a life sentence, despite having no physical contact with each other for 30 years — the two fell madly in love. “We spoke for hours on the phone every day,” she says. “We were like teenagers.” MANIFEST & EX-HUSBAND’S INFAMOUS BEHAVIOR Unable to escape a hashtag, this year alone Jenai has faced her ex-husband’s infamous Twitter and MeToo moments, witnessed her fiance’s case benefit from heightened scrutiny of police misconduct following the murder of George Floyd, and has dodged rioters in Portland — all while launching a revolutionary new digital health and fitness program that can be done at home. The program is designed for people who historically struggle with their health and fitness. Her new company, Manifest, launched just as the Covid-19 pandemic shuttered brick and mortar gyms. “Sometimes I think, What the hell! Do I draw these controversies to me?” she says. “I keep telling myself I should go and live a quiet, peaceful life. But at this Social Life
PROFILES
point I know that I’m the kind of person that attracts this sort of thing. I don’t need a therapist to tell me that I’m a drama magnet. I don’t purposefully create any of this, but it does seem to follow me around,” she laughs. THE WEDDING But the biggest and most eyebrow-raising event in her life happened this June. After being convinced that she would never remarry, the mother of four paid Tucker’s $2 million bond and married him in a ceremony at her estate. Tucker is now under house arrest in her family home until his trial. “It was a very special and lovely wedding,” she says. “Neither of us are big wedding people, but it was very nice and appropriately intimate.” TV SERIES, A BOOK & A MOVIE If all that sounds more like a movie than real life, producers think so too. Jenai says that she’s receiving offers for books, Netflix series, and feature-film adaptations of her life. LIBERTY & JUSTICE FOR ALL When it came to Tucker’s case or corroborating accounts that her ex-husband had used far less than PC language around SocialLifeMagazine.com
coworkers, Jenai says that she felt compelled to speak up, even though it came at great personal cost. “The thing I couldn’t get out of my head with Ty was, What if this happened to me?” she says. “I thought, We grew up in the same neighborhood. It could happen to me. I could be framed for murder. What if somebody framed me for murder and nobody was there to help? I couldn’t live with myself knowing that I had the potential to help and didn’t.” She’s so committed to her ideals that she commissioned a tattoo on her right arm, “It’s an eagle with roses, a shield, and the words ‘Liberty and Justice for All,’” she says. Although the newlyweds are now gearing up for a courtroom battle in Key West, Jenai is enjoying domesticity for the first time in a long time. “Even the extra set of dirty socks,” she laughs in reference to sharing life with her new husband. She still spends hours a day working on her husband’s case and speaking with their attorneys, but grilling steaks and Netflix binges as a family have fast become the norm. “Experiencing what we’ve been experiencing is sort of like watching a TV show or a movie,” she says. “But at this moment, we are enjoying this time together, just being parents.” u For more information about Jenai’s new fitness program Manifest, visit bemanifest.com
write your summer
memories here
Please share with us our Tribute to these remarkable people.
To the Last Responders.
Dear Funeral Services Industry Professionals, When COVID 19 exploded in March, and then raged to unthinkable death tolls over the following months, you and your staffs put your lives on the line for us so we could find whatever peace we could saying good-bye to our loved ones. How can we thank you? We probably will never be able to do that justice. I always admired, often with amazement, how Funeral Directors, and your staffs, served your clients and were unique leaders of your communities. Today, that admiration has escalated beyond the point where words cannot adequately express the gratitude and appreciation I and my company have for you, and what you do. As I began building Whitmore 30 years ago, servicing the needs of the Funeral Industry became not only the foundation of our company, it was our heart and soul. There is no war, natural disaster, or disease outbreak that can begin to compare to what you have gone through with this horrific virus.
FUNERAL DIRECTORS:
Thank You.
The entire industry, from Funeral Directors to Livery Services, Casket Companies and Crematoriums, to Trade Service providers had to do things never considered before. In the New York Metro, the global epicenter of this pandemic, many of you were simply overwhelmed. The number of calls and requests for funerals and services, five to fifty times more than the busiest of times, put you under constant pressure physically, emotionally, mentally, and financially. Please know we recognize and appreciate that. Your behavior was heroic and caring, above and beyond the call of duty. We at Whitmore are honored to acknowledge your courage, talent, and dedication to serving us as the ultimate Last Responders. With gratitude and admiration, thank you. James C. Metzger Chairman/CEO The Whitmore Agency
FUNERAL SERVICES whitmoregroup.com