{Cincinnati’s Finest}
Jan/Feb 2016 five dollars
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4 BR/5+1 BA transitional contemporary. Great flow. Walls of glass. Dramatic room proportions. 2+ mostly flat acres. Spectacular pool. 5-car garage. 4 fireplaces. 21' vaulted/beamed ceilings. Greenhouse. Covered lanai. Spectacular! Indian Hill | $1,695,000
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621 Chardonnay Ridge
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4 BR/5+1 BA California contemporary set amongst the pines. Private & peaceful. Sunny & bright. Open floor plan. 1st fl master suite w/stunning renovated spa-bath. Recently renovated gourmet kitchen. Meticulously maintained. Mount Lookout | $599,000
3796 Broadview Drive
9-yr-new 5 BR/4+1 BA in private/neighborly enclave. Windows galore. High ceilings. Hardwood floors. Gourmet eat-in KIT open to Great Rm. Fin walkout LL. Attached 2-car GAR.Tax abated thru 2021. Hyde Park | $749,000
2016 Real Estate Outlook = Carpe Diem in mind if you’re thinking about buying or selling… ✔ Interest rates will rise. For each 1% mortgage interest rate increase buying power decreases 11.22%. Rates are still under 4% for 30 year remarkably close to free money. We are ready to help you make a smart investment in a happy home. ✔ Condominium inventory is evaporating. Baby Boomers are downsizing in droves to no-muss-no-fuss condos. Meanwhile,
7600 Ridge Road
Custom built in 2000 on a private/flat 2.24 acres this 4 BR/5+2 BA was meticulously designed for today’s lifestyles to live almost entirely on 1 floor. 1st fl features: entry foyer & gallery, living, dining, eat-in kitchen open to a family room, master suite (w/his & hers baths & room-sized closets), 2 powder rooms, theater room, laundry room & his/hers garages garages (4-cars-plus). 2nd fl features 3 bedrooms all w/ensuite & (4-cars-plus). 2nd fl features 3 bedrooms all w/ensuite baths & baths a home a home gym. Covered terrace provides enjoyment of the gym. Covered terrace provides ultimateultimate enjoyment of the spectacular spectacular yard landscaped & designer pool. Every designer detail has been landscaped & pool.yard Every detail has been attended to from attendedfireplaces to from multiple fireplaces w/limestone surrounds, limestone multiple w/limestone surrounds, limestone & hardwood floors & hardwood floors and much more. and much more.
Amberley Village | $1,375,000
from building more new condos. Consequently, demand is outpacing supply. If you’re dreaming of easy condo living, the time is now to make the move. Note: we often know when diggable condos are coming available before they hit the market – just ask us. ✔ Single-family housing inventory is anemic. There are buyers aplenty in search of homes including: 1st-time buyers, up-sizers & incoming transferees. If you have been considering selling – don’t wait ‘til the tulips are up. Buyer activity is robust now and spring will likely bring increased competition. Please let us know if you’re game to sell and we’ll supply the ready buyers.
Lori Wellinghoff David Wellinghoff Mariza C. Cohen Lisa Williams Cincinnati Chamber Real Estate of Commerce Woman Entrepreneur of the Year 2013
Real Estate
Real Estate
✔ Does your home have its prom dress on? Anemic inventory notwithstanding, if your house isn’t ship-shape - savvy/patient buyers will not ask you to the dance. We have all of the skills to help prep, style & stage your home to be the belle of the real estate ball. There is no obligation to tap our expertise in this regard. ✔ It’s not what you know it’s who you know: Transacting real estate is complicated, but it doesn’t have to be. Whether you’re a “1st timer” or a “rodeo regular” the DIGSGroup @ Comey & Shepherd has a full complement of in-house experts in every aspect of happy homemaking (real estate representation, mortgage lending, design & construction). Whether you wish to buy or sell, downsize or upsize, we are the only enterprise capable of making the process turnkey and satisfying. Thank you for considering us to help make your home dreams reality in 2016.
513.979.2685 DIGS@comey.com
Marti Schuler Real Estate
ANY OR ALL SERVICES, DIGS DOES IT. Find it. Buy It. Sell It. Plan It. Design It. Decorate It. Renovate It. Add-On-To-It. Landscape It.You Name It. DIGS Does It. Our services can be engaged “ala carte” or in any combination to make your home dreams reality. Contact Lori Wellinghoff today.
Kim Merrell Real Estate
Robbin Gilligan Of Counsel
Brian Gibson
John L. Harrison Annette Askam
Tom Allison
Josh Koch
Alissa Groth
Bridget Henson Deuce
Design
Design
Construction
Construction
Controller
Office Manager
Project Managment
3524 Edwards Road/Hyde Park Square DIGS-home.com 513.533.DIGS (3447) info@digs-home.com
The highest standards of client service. That’s an expectation we share with you. At Johnson Investment Counsel, we embrace our duty to put your goals ahead of our own. Since our founding in 1965, we’ve earned our clients’ trust over generations with personal advisors who know your objectives for today and your plans for tomorrow. 513.661.3100
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Your home is a sanctuary and should be as beautiful as you can imagine. Let California Closets design a custom system just for you and the way you live, and help make your dream home a reality with our exclusive materials and exceptional designs. Visit our showroom in the Kenwood Galleria or call us today to arrange your complimentary design consultation.
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IT TAKES TWO BY ROBERT E. MESSINGER, CFS®, CLU®, ChFC®- SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT WEALTH MANAGEMENT, UBS FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC At the very least, both spouses should know: • Where to fnd fnancial statements and legal documents like wills, insurance policies, tax returns, loan paperwork, deeds and keys for safety deposit boxes. I can provide you the UBS document locator which can be a tremendous resource in tracking and centralizing important information. • Where—and how—your assets are invested • Whom to call to adjust taxes, claim disability benefts and execute powers of attorney • What the regular sources of income are • Which creditors you pay and how (e.g., electronic checking account withdrawal, checks, credit card auto pay) • Benefciary and survivorship provisions on retirement plans and accounts. You should both have an awareness of your financial goals and an understanding of all important issues, such as: how to prioritize expenses and savings; which investment account should be accessed frst while you’re awaiting insurance benefts in the case of an accident; and which charities you support regularly, as well as how that would be afected by a change in income.
You bear the entire weight of financial decision making in your household. But an all-or-nothing division of responsibilities can be as risky as an all-eggs-in-one-basket investment strategy, if you were to suddenly be sidelined due to illness or another emergency. Here’s how to prepare for that contingency.
Deepening engagement To increase your partner’s future involvement going forward, make a concerted efort to confrm goals and objectives, and to discuss any changes. Review investment and banking statements together, and increase transparency by ensuring your partner has online access to all accounts. Ask questions and invite opinions on major purchases and other big fnancial decisions, including investments. Finally, include your partner in calls and meetings with us, and with your lawyers and accountants. Even if your partner isn’t interested in the subject matter, it will help him or her build a relationship with your trusted advisors.
Couples and Money According to Investor Watch, couples handle fnancial decision-making in one of four ways: (1) the man decides, (2) the woman decides, (3) all decision-making is shared or (4) each makes separate and independent As always, we are happy to help. We can get your partner involved in decisions about money. Men typically take primary responsibility fnancial decisions, facilitate goals discussions or provide education. Let’s for investing, long-term planning and insurance, while women are have a conversation about how to expand our relationship to include the more likely to manage day-to-day expenses and charitable giving. If most important person in your life. your marriage or relationship is like most, however, the financial responsibilities are more on one person’s shoulders than the other, for Let’s have a conversation… a variety of reasons. 1 Regardless of your situation, it’s critical that your • We can schedule a meeting with your signifcant other and help you organize and share key fnancial information husband, wife or partner be prepared to handle bill-paying, investments with each other. and taxes in the event that you cannot. • UBS has tools and resources to help you get started. First steps While fnancial responsibility doesn’t have to be 50/50, both partners should be aware of what the joint or marital assets are and how they’re being used. A good way to start bringing the less fnancially involved spouse into the fold is to focus on the household budget, looking at 1 UBS Investor Watch, 2Q 2014. what money comes in and how that money is spent on both fixed Tis article has been written and provided by UBS Financial Services Inc. for use by its Financial Advisors. and discretionary expenses. Discuss your fnancial goals and concerns together so that each of you understands what is driving the fnancial As a firm providing wealth management services to clients, we offer both investment advisory and brokerage services. Tese services are separate and distinct, difer in material decisions you make together. Make sure your partner is aware of the ways and are governed by different laws and separate contracts. For more information on distinctions between our brokerage and investment advisory services, please speak financial security arrangements that are in place, and that he or she withtheyour Financial Advisor or visit our website at ubs.com/workingwithus. 140425-0634 0414195GF_0414 participates in any signifcant changes. 8
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Advice. Beyond investing. The Messinger Financial Group
Robert E. Messinger, CFS®, CLU®, ChFC® Senior Vice President–Wealth Management Jaime T. Messinger Client Service Associate UBS Financial Services Inc. The Towers at Kenwood 8044 Montgomery Road, Suite 200W Cincinnati, OH 45236 513-792-2117 800-543-2884 855-403-7869 fax
ubs.com/team/messinger As a firm providing wealth management services to clients, we offer both investment advisory and brokerage services. These services are separate and distinct, differ in material ways and are governed by different laws and separate contracts. For more information on the distinctions between our brokerage and investment advisory services, please speak with your Financial Advisor or visit our website at ubs.com/workingwithus. ©UBS 2015. All rights reserved. UBS Financial Services Inc. is a subsidiary of UBS AG. Member FINRA/SIPC. 31.00_Ad_8.375x10.125_WL0930_MesR
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{Cincinnati’s Finest}
slmag.net
Jan/Feb 2016
Jan/Feb 2016 five dollars
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Hotel Confdential Winter view of the New York City skyline from from the Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir in Central Park. Photo by Bridget Williams.
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on the cover: House Article Descriptive text
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Arts Profile: Thane Maynard
and The Cincinnati Zoo
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International Theme Park Services
33
Purple Reign
36
Cape Expectations
42
Bibliotaph… Model Behavior
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Hotel Confidential:
Ritz Carlton Central Park
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Curating a Lifestyle
50
Of Note…
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An Affair to Remember
58
The Dish
60
Tokaj, Hungary
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Crossing Over
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House Title
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Funky’s Catering
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Boys Hope Girls Hope
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Society Calendar
93
Cincinnati Symphony Open Gala
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Saks Escada
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Taste of the World
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Kindervelt #50 Fashion Show
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Eisele Gallery
100
Cars, Cigars & Style
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Cincinnati Food and Wine Classic
102
Beer Baron Ball
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Cancerfree Kids’ Celebration of Champions
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Art in Bloom
Let your journey through
5,000 years of civilization begin…
Experience a Divine Culture
There was a time when Emperors ruled dynasties, Heroes became legends, And the world was full of Magic and miracles. What if you could travel across centuries, visit imperial palaces, and discover realms hidden to the human eye? Ancient China was a land of beauty and wonder—a world of heroes, legends, and heavenly wisdom—until its divine culture was lost.
Now, this lost civilization returns with Shen Yun. The energy and expressiveness of classical Chinese dance. Soul-stirring music that blends East and West. And cutting-edge animated backdrops that take you to another world. Isn’t it time you saw Shen Yun?
Classical Chinese instruments: the 4,000-year-old erhu and delicate pipa.
an all-new show with live orchestra “So inspiring. I think I may have found some ideas for the next Avatar movie.” — Robert Stromberg, Academy Award– winning production designer
“It’s unforgettable. It is definitely a top show. There’s nothing like it. This was one of the most beautiful, technically amazing shows that I’ve seen in such a long time.” — Andrea Huber, Veteran Dance Critic
Feb 27 aronoFF center
“I am completely enchanted... I do hope there is a recording of your wonderful erhu player, and it will…make me remember this marvelous evening.”
“The orchestra is phenomenal.
They are very, very on top.”
— Roger Tallman, Seven-time Emmy Award–winning composer/producer
— HRH Princess Michael of Kent
“So tastefully done, so creative... I’m going to mention it on the news that I think it’s a great performance and people should see it,” —Ernie Anastos, Emmy Award-winning news anchor
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“It was an extraordinary experience…
Exquisitely beautiful.”
— Cate Blanchett, Academy Awardwinning Actress
cincinnatiarts.org shenYun.com/cincinnati
EDITOR - IN - CHIEF Matthew Millett ______________________________________________ ASSOCIATE EDITORS Bridget Williams CONTRIBUTORS Writers Sheree Allgood Patti Bailey Dr. Matthew Bessen Ellana Bessen Scott Harper Amelia Jefers Jef Jefers Austin Pembroke Lisa Stephenson Powell Photographers Tony Bailey Mark Dumont Chad Henle Andrew Kung Laura Leppert Jef McCurry Michael Wilson Special Tanks Cincinnati Zoo, Leppert Photography ADVERTISING SALES OFFICE 513.205.3300 ______________________________________________ SOPHISTICATED LIVING MEDIA Eric Williams - CEO Bridget Williams - President Greg Butrum - General Counsel Jason Yann - Art Director
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Change bottom blurb to read “Sophisticated Living is published bimonthly by Millett Media, LLC, and is independently owned and operated. Sophisticated Living is a registered trademark of Williams Media, Inc. All rights reserved. All images and editorial are the property of Sophisticated Living, LLC, and cannot be reproduced in whole or in part without the express written permission. Annual subscriptions are $25 in the U.S., $30 outside. Single copies are $5 at select fine retailers. Address all subscription inquiries to: Sophisticated Living Cincinnati, 1301 Edwards Rd. Cincinnati, OH 45208, or call 513.205.3300.
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A New Chapter
Cooney Faulkner & Stevens is now a part of Mountjoy Chilton Medley LLP Since 1999, the CFS team has worked as advocates for our clients, their families and their businesses. We will be raising the bar higher, with more capabilities, more expertise, and more resources at our fngertips as a part of MCM. To learn more about what MCM can do for you and your business, please visit us at www.mcmcpa.com.
www.mcmcpa.com | 513.898.8800
Expert guidance, beyond the bottom line.
From the Editor-In-Chief
Te Hungarian writer Frigyes Karinthy was the frst proponent of the ‘six degrees of separation’ philosophy. Essentially the thought was that we live in a small world and everyone is connected through a ‘friend of a friend’, or ‘friend of a friend of a friend’….or ‘friend of a friend of a friend of a friend’…..essentially, we all know the Dalai Lama, Meryle Streep, Oprah, or even Donald Trump through six different connections (what a dinner party that would make!). In Cincinnati it seems closer to one or two connections at the very most. You never know whom your going to bump into or meet at the next social event, what they might do or whom they might know, where they’ve been or where they’re going. Take for example Debbie Bowman, Director of Boys Hope Girls Hope Cincinnati. Debbie has been in the tri-state her whole life, working with community leaders and business professionals to draw awareness to non-profts. Michael (Funky) Forgus of Funky’s Catering is another local trendsetter. A local culinary legend, Michael has served food one way or another to just about everyone in Cincinnati. Or Tane Maynard, Director of the Cincinnati Zoo, or as I frst remember him, as the 90-second naturalist. Tane has studied alongside zoologists, botanists, wildlife biologists, and conservation experts all across the world. Or what about Dennis Speigel, President of the International Teme Park Services. Dennis and his creative team are apart of hundred million dollar projects that take place all over the globe. Dennis has brushed shoulders with creative minds, actors, artists, billionaires, Shahs, and authoritative dignitaries from literally all over the world. Tese are amazing individuals, and they are all located here in Cincinnati. Teir travels, experiences, and work is well noted and their connections span deep across Cincinnati, the nation, and even the world. With individuals like these around the city, it seems all more possible to be connected with anyone on earth. I hope you enjoy hearing their stories and feel even more connected with this thriving city.
Matthew Millett
matthew@slmag.net
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Casual Elegance
with a twist.
9407 Montgomery Road • Cincinnati, OH 45242 • 513.791.9970
@Blainesapparel
ARTS PROFILE
THANE MAYNARD AND THE CINCINNATI ZOO Written by Lisa Stephenson Powell Photo By Jef McCurry
F. Scott Fitzgerald described Jay Gatsby as a man who possessed a heightened sensitivity to the promises of life and an extraordinary gift for hope. Thane Maynard embodies the same attributes. Mr. Maynard, Director of the Cincinnati Zoo, exudes boyish charm, perpetual energy and unabashed enthusiasm. “I get grief from colleagues and friends about being naïve,” he said wistfully. “Nothing irritates smart people like optimism but I’m in the business of hope.” Mr. Maynard had a delightful, “hilariously misspent youth,” which led to a successful career that would be difcult to duplicate. He grew up in the small town of Winter Park, Florida, where every acquaintance became a friend, and where the church, elementary school and local college were within walking distance from each other. Mr. Maynard enjoyed a
Huckleberry Finn boyhood. Youngsters in the neighborhood swam at night to fend off the heat (homes were not air conditioned), and were as comfortable camping in swamps, catching snakes and seeing alligators as children today are navigating an iPad. After receiving a degree in biology, and a master’s degree from the University of Michigan in wildlife biology, Mr. Maynard pondered his future. “I thought I would go to Alaska and drive around in a big pick-up truck, or lead some crazy swashbuckling life in Africa,” he said. But fate took a local twist. He married at twenty-three, life became more sedate and he followed his wife to Cincinnati where she was employed as a writer. In 1977 he began working in the Zoo’s education center, which was a perfect fit, and eventually became director of the department.
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Photo By Jef McCurry Tere is a lovely French phrase, “Reculer pour mieux sauter,” which means that it’s often necessary to step back from a situation in order to leap forward; after more than twenty years in Cincinnati Mr. Maynard and his wife did just that. Tey moved to Bainbridge Island, near Seattle, and established the IslandWood School, which meshed environmental awareness with education. Their work was commendable and the school was successful, but the placid atmosphere was not conducive to Mr. Maynard’s dynamic core. “It’s kind of funny, but it’s kind of true,” he said, “that you can take the boy out of the zoo, but you can’t take the zoo out of the boy. If a person has worked at a place that is insanely kinetic, which this is, it gets into your blood. Zoos preselect hyperactive employees who wear sneakers, drink a lot of cofee and who are run and done at the end of the day.” Mr. Maynard returned to the Zoo in 2001 and was appointed director in 2006. Cincinnati Zoo was founded in 1873, opened in 1875, and has had a celebrated 140 year history as a unique destination. Te challenge, always, has been maintaining and growing its popularity in a city that is not known for good weather, like Orlando, which houses Disney’s Animal Kingdom; that is not a tourist destination
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like New York, which propels the success of the Bronx Zoo; and that challenges the organization to manage costs within a current annual budget of $34 million, while San Diego’s is $340 million. Nonetheless, in the past ten years attendance has grown from one million visitors to 1.5 million, which Mr. Maynard attributes to a redefned strategic plan that targeted the guest experience. Te daily mantra of the organization is not just a quest to save rhinos or breed cheetahs, but that the Zoo has become an active, rather than passive, venue where guests can connect with wildlife and can be inspired by it. Success has been achieved because people return, again and again, generation after generation. Te Zoo is considered one of the top ten in the country, has been listed as one of the top three in Zagat and Fodor surveys and has a reputation as being one of the great overachieving zoos in America. “Our parcel of land is smaller than most,” Mr. Maynard explained. “We’re located on the corner of Vine Street and Erckenbrecher, an urban neighborhood in an old Midwest river town. It’s a difcult location for a zoo, but between here and Columbus we are the number one, year round family attraction in the entire region. Pulling that of is not an easy task.”
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Photo By Jef McCurry 22 slmag.net
Photo By Mark Dumont Tere is a blizzard of activity surrounding Mr. Maynard, and he happily admitted that visitors from other zoos around the country steal ideas. After an assessment was done by a civil engineer the Zoo was able to save such a signifcant amount of water and electricity that it earned a renowned status as the greenest zoo in America. Seven PhD’s are on their CREW (Center for Conservation and Research of Endangered Wildlife) program of scientifc research and travel the world employing wildlife expertise. Te Zoo boasts of an impressive botanical garden, which Mr. Maynard described as one of the prettiest anywhere. And then there is the education department. “Our education center is the largest of any zoo in the world and our commitment to it is huge,” Mr. Maynard said. “With thirteen classrooms, the Zoo ofers programs for children from the age of eighteen months, which are called Stroller Safaris, as well as programs for students who want to get a master’s degree from Miami University. Te Zoo Education Center is also home to the Zoo Academy, a full time CPS magnet high school, which is a true success story. Most of the kids live within a mile of the Zoo, and while they’re completing high school they can work with the animals on our grounds and decide if they want a career
in wildlife management. The Zoo’s commitment to education began in 1975 when they launched an outreach program taking animals to area schools, a program that continues today and has been funded by Frisch’s restaurants for forty years.” Mr. Maynard describes himself as a classic naturalist. He has three daughters, two of whom are biologists. He enjoys running, is a voracious reader, listens to NPR, has authored thirteen books, uses German binoculars and drives a Japanese car. Te nomenclature, though, extends beyond his immediate surroundings. More than twenty five years ago he started a weekday radio show entitled “The Ninety Second Naturalist.” A fortuitous incident led to the development of the program; Mr. Maynard was given a t-shirt that read, “I only have a ninety second attention span.” Te show is broadcast on public radio stations, many in small college towns, and is a fun and rewarding facet of his career. Mr. Maynard receives feedback from listeners in Bloomington, Indiana, and Charlottesville, Virginia, and added, with droll humor, that it has top ratings in Billings, Montana. “I went into a cofee shop there and the woman behind the counter asked, ‘Are you the guy on the radio?’”
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Photo By Jef McCurry
Although the Zoo is open all year, it once was perceived as a site for seasonal entertainment, a place to visit between Memorial Day and Labor Day. Mr. Maynard pointed out that lights are run hourly, animals are fed daily and pay checks are issued twelve months a year, so he focused on broadening awareness and increasing attendance. Onsite venues now accommodate networking breakfasts, corporate picnic lunches, birthday parties and weekend weddings; the PNC Festival of Lights was expanded as a winter celebration. The event was started in the early 1980s and occupied a small tract of land; now it stretches majestically from corner to corner. Last year almost 300,000 guests visited between Thanksgiving and New Year, and two million lights hung ffty feet in the air. “We made it relevant to people’s lives, to families and to our members,” Mr. Maynard said. “Te PNC Festival of Lights is not just about the animals – if we didn’t have animals we wouldn’t have the show – it’s about getting people together to share an experience, to drink some hot chocolate, to have fun and to enjoy the Zoo while doing so. It’s our best branded event, and is an important part of our success.” 24 slmag.net
Te support that the Zoo receives from the people of Cincinnati is laudable, and Mr. Maynard mentioned a short list of donors that included Procter & Gamble, Frisch’s, PNC and Kroger. The Zoo raises more private funds than almost any other zoo in the country, and it also receives backing from families and family foundations. Mr. Maynard is an optimist, a naturalist and, also, quietly, a realist. “I know that the world is on fre, that ice caps are melting and that forests are disappearing,” he said. “Te world is changing and good news isn’t printed because it doesn’t sell, but professionally there’s a lot of good news to share. Bald eagles in Ohio, alligators in Florida, wolves in Montana and whales in California are making a comeback because they are being protected. If young people want a career in zoology, and they are fexible and open to opportunities, they can advance from keeper to head keeper, and from curator to management. I’m always looking for staf members who ft our leadership style program. We have 231 employees working full time, and nearly as many working part time, and all of them are enthusiastic, interested and curious. Together we are passionate about our goals and embrace the principle responsibility of the Zoo, which is to bring the story of wildlife to the loving and generous people of Cincinnati.” sl
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INTERNATIONAL THEME PARK SERVICES Written by Lisa Stephenson Powell Photography by Andrew Kung
On a leafy enclave near the entrance to Eden Park there’s a company with a global reputation and deeply rooted local ties. It’s nestled in a Victorian building that has been delightfully renovated, and is flled with the waft of freshly made popcorn. Dennis L. Speigel founded International Theme Park Services (ITPS) thirty-two years ago, and not one day during any of those years has lassitude crept into his ofce. Mr. Speigel, who has a cherubic demeanor and a mega-watt personality, lives the mantra of ITPS. It hangs (in neon) at the entrance and has been the message on his license plate for thirty eight years: “I’m 4 Fun.” His office is jam-packed with keepsakes and Mr. Speigel, only half-joking, ofered, “We are drenched in memorabilia around here. If you see something that you like, take it. I’ll never miss it.” Te numbers of his success are dizzying. He has logged in over thirteen million miles of air travel. ITPS has completed more than fve hundred projects in ffty countries. During the last twelve years Mr. Speigel has been responsible for $800 million in theme park transactions (arranging, buying, selling),
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an achievement unparalleled in the industry. Recent inquiries included two from Russia and one from Malaysia, and the company just finished a $300 million job in Vietnam. At one point, during a two week period, he traveled to ten cities. “I went from Rio to Moscow, from Moscow to Mexico City, from Mexico City to Paris, and then to San Paolo,” he recalled, cherishing the memory of all of those crumbled up boarding passes. “It was kind of crazy.” As president of ITPS he has met prime ministers and movie stars, and has worked with Broadway designers and European fnanciers. Mr. Speigel, the middle child of three, grew up in Amelia. His father owned a furniture and appliance store, and he began working in the family business at the age of ten. The British journalist Katharine Whitehorn once wrote that the secret to happiness is to decide what you like best, and to get someone to pay you for doing it. When Mr. Speigel landed a summer job at Coney Island amusement park he not only made money, he established his future.
Mock Up of Teme Park Entrance
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“I started working at the front gate when I was thirteen and stayed for ten years, while I was in school,” he said. “I gained a broad base of knowledge because I was at the nerve center of the park. I saw who was arriving, who was leaving and knew why they were there. And I realized at a very young age that I really liked the business; it was fast paced, it was fun and I was involved with everything that was going on.” After graduating from Morehead State University with a degree in business and history there were no pining decisions about what to do, or where his next job would be. Coney Island hired him as a trainee and, once again, he hit every surface of the deck. He worked in sales, in food and in personnel, and eventually became assistant to the manager, who was head of operations. As Mr. Speigel settled into his career the parent company of Coney Island, Taft Broadcasting, expanded north to Mason, and built Kings Island, and South, to Richmond, Virginia, where they built and managed King’s Dominion. Mr. Speigel worked at both locations before returning to Cincinnati where he was vice president of operations for the theme parks that Taft was
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developing. In 1980 Disney opened a theme park in Tokyo with phenomenal success, which unleashed a torrent of interest in international entities. Companies approached Taft for advice in every aspect of building, running and maintaining theme parks, spawning Mr. Speigel’s peripatetic lifestyle. “I looked at sites everywhere,” he said. “Korea, Europe, Australia, Singapore. And although I had a stack of serious queries piled high on my desk, Taft saw the situation differently. They had radio and television, the Hanna-Barbera cartoon studio and movies, and the theme park portion didn’t yield the kind of profts that the other divisions did. Tose fees for Taft were crumbs on the table, but I always knew that if you brushed them on the foor they would become a banquet for a mouse. I was thirty six years old and I knew that I would have enough work to keep me busy for twenty years, so I left Taft and started the company.” ITPS is a full service business which takes theme park planning from feasibility to opening day, putting teams in place at each juncture just as Marriott does with a hotel. Te pattern of ITPS – build and expand, build and expand – has necessitated satellite offices in other locations, and Mr. Speigel has had personnel in
Nice, the Philippines, Beijing, Rio de Janeiro and Korea. But no matter where work lands the team ITPS uses the same twelvestep process plan that was developed by Walt Disney sixty years ago, which has become the bible of the industry. Te steps include detailed analysis on location, design, construction, installation and operations. Te balance and fow of a theme park is critical and, on a peak day, moving 50,000 people at King’s Island from Point A to Point B, and then to Point C, is more scientifc than it might appear. As Mr. Speigel pointed out, a client doesn’t just decide to build a park and have construction begin, there are local constraints and requirements that formulate the fnal equation. ITPS consulted on a 300,000 square foot project in Doha, Qatar, which was built as an indoor park, necessitated by prevailing temperatures of 120 degrees. In rural Shanghai 1,500 Chinese employees were so disheveled that interpreters had to instruct them to brush their teeth and comb their hair before teaching them how to run a roller coaster. And sometimes, even with a promising pedigree, a project fails. Twenty six years ago Disneyland Paris was opened and immediately qualified as an unmitigated disaster. It had the wrong location (cold and wet);
Parisians hated the park and disapproved of the subsidies that Disney received (protestors stormed the front gates); the project was overcapitalized and overbuilt (more than eighty banks were involved and there were so many hotels that occupancy dropped to an anemic 38%). And when Europeans were told by an American mouse that adult beverages were forbidden, they stayed away in droves. After Michael Eisner announced that alcoholic beverages would not be available in Paris, Mr. Speigel told him, “You’ll be serving wine in six months because it’s as much a part of their culture as water on the table is part of ours.” Not surprisingly Mr. Speigel is asked often why ITPS is based here instead of Los Angeles or Orlando, and the answer is simple. “Cincinnati has always been home.” He and his wife, Donna, have three children and fve grandchildren; Mrs. Speigel is a successful entrepreneur in her own right. She opened the frst location of the Snooty Fox thirty four years ago, which has grown to twelve locations with over one hundred employees, and was voted the best consignment shop in the US. And, personally, they have established a magnanimous philanthropic interest in the tristate area.
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Doha, Qatar Indoor Park “Our grandson has Angelman Syndrome,” he explained. “It’s a genetic disorder with symptoms that mimic cerebral palsy and inhibit movement. We found a school in Flint, Michigan, that worked with patients using conductive education. Te program was started in Budapest and when we went to Michigan and told them that we wanted to establish a sanctioned school, which could include children from Northern Kentucky, Dayton, Indianapolis and Columbus, they agreed.” The Conductive Learning Center opened in Covington nine years ago, and parents with children who couldn’t walk have seen them play soccer. Tere are now thirty four schools across the country that use the process and a signifcant amount of proceeds from the Snooty Fox are donated to fund the Center’s local programs. Inasmuch as Mr. Speigel is in perpetual motion (“I’m always running”) so, too, is his industry. Te online purchase of tickets, sometimes with a discount, have made ticket booths at a theme park as much an anachronism as rotary phones. Disney has just spent $1 billion on their MagicBand that makes the
guest experience – from unlocking a hotel room to purchasing merchandise – more pleasant and efficient. (In spite of an occasional theme park misstep, there is no denying that Disney continually sets the bar for the world and for the industry.) And even when the economy was impacted by the tragedy of 9/11 Mr. Speigel managed to stay ahead of the curve. On the day before the attacks he had ffteen parks in development; on 9/12 every one of them had vanished. “Te world as we knew it stopped turning.” Alternatively, he was able to step into the role of caretaker; he advised investors through bankruptcy and assisted them through the transition of cancelled projects. “We’ve always been busy, we’ve always made money and we’ve always paid the bills. We’re not here for a long time, we’re here for a good time,” he said. “At the end of the day, look at what the industry does. We don’t pollute the air, we don’t contaminate the streams and we think that having fun is a serious business. We put smiles on people’s faces.” He paused and added graciously, “Tell me something better than that.” sl slmag.net
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{Cincinnati’s Finest}
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PURPLE REIGN
American Pharaoh captures horse racing’s frst “Grand Slam” at the Breeder’s Cup Written by Bridget Williams Photography by Tony Bailey For centuries, the color purple has been associated with royalty, power and wealth. It was only fitting then that the color played prominently on the chrysanthemum blanket that was draped over the withers of American Pharaoh following the thoroughbred’s wire-to-wire win against accomplished older horses at the Breeder’s Cup Classic on October 31st at Keeneland Race Course in Lexington, KY. Te decisive victory for the frst Triple Crown winner in 37 years made it the frst horse to capture horse racing’s Grand Slam. Despite concerns over the historic racecourse’s diminutive size in comparison with other tracks that have hosted past
Breeder’s Cup races, Keeneland easily accommodated the nearly 100,000 racing fans from around the globe who were in attendance over the weekend of racing. “Te 2015 Breeders’ Cup proved to be a resounding success in so many ways, but it starts with the remarkable work from the management and staf at Keeneland, whose attention to detail and superb execution created a spectacular racing event for all,” said Craig Fravel, Breeders’ Cup President and CEO. “We also thank the Lexington business community and to the KentuckyOne Health Breeders’ Cup Festival for their dedication and commitment in support of the worldwide guests attending the Championships.” slmag.net
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While all eyes were on three-year-old American Pharaoh for the fnal race of his illustrious career, the 2015 edition of the Breeder’s Cup saw one of the deepest felds in its history with 161 total starters in 13 races, including 25 from overseas, boasting a cumulative total of 120 Grade/Group 1 wins among them. Jockey Ryan Moore, who cinched victories on Found (IRE) in the Longines Turf and Hit It a Bomb in the Juvenile Turf and runner-up on Alice Springs (IRE) in the Juvenile Fillies Turf
and Legatissimo (IRE) in the Filly & Mare Turf, was awarded the 13th Bill Shoemaker Award. Te award honors Shoemaker, an accomplished jockey with more than 8,800 career victories, highlights of which include a 1987 Breeders’ Cup Classic win at age 56 aboard Ferdinand. Te 2016 Breeders’ Cup World Championships will be held on Friday, November 4 and Saturday, November 5 at Santa Anita Park in Arcadia, California. sl slmag.net
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CAPE EXPECTATIONS Exploring from sea to sky in Cape Town, South Africa Written by Bridget Williams
Tere are certain moments in time when you feel really and truly alive. Standing at the base of Lion’s Head Mountain high above Cape Town, South Africa, just as the sun was making its debut for the day, was one of those times. I stood with my travel mates in complete silence, as there seemed to be an unspoken understanding that words would merely muddle the beauty of this fleeting moment. Below us laid the sleepy, sprawling metropolis, whose periphery is lapped by the frigid Atlantic Ocean. To the right, a dense blanket of fog danced across the surface of Tabletop Mountain. Tough completely random, the intersection of the curling fog and the strengthening sunbeams created a beautifully choreographed
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display of light and shadow that kept our mouths agape at the raw beauty of what our eyes were privileged to behold. Daylight firmly upon us, we set off for the top of Lion’s Head Mountain. As I contemplated the sheerness of the cliff face, marked by chains and footholds, I speculated that clearly South Africans have a vastly diferent view than Americans do of what qualifies as an “easy” hike. I’d initially signed on for the journey to South Africa in the hope that I would get the opportunity to cage dive with Great White sharks, but my disappointment in learning I would not be doing so was quickly tempered by breathtaking adventures such as the one that my height-averse brain was telling me not to do. I didn’t come 8,000
V&A Waterfront. Photo courtesy Cape Town Tourism.
miles to bring regret back as a souvenir, so I took a deep breath and headed to the top, from which I could look down on the same mountain I admired a few hours prior. Te One & Only Cape Town (capetown.oneandonlyresorts.com), located within the Victoria & Albert Waterfront, a varied shopping and entertainment district built seven years ago on the edge of the historic harbor, served as the home base for several days worth of excursions. Te building itself, designed by local architects Ruben Reddy and Dennis Fabian & Berman perfectly encapsulates the city by paying homage to its rich and diverse history with a defnite eye toward a dynamic future. While located in the midst of a bustling city, being on property feels very much like a secluded enclave,
the ideal embodiment of an urban oasis. An expanse of windows in the lobby frames the view of Table Mountain. Indigenous art and architectural accents play heavily throughout the design. To the left of the lobby is a three-story homage to food and wine, housing the Wine Loft and Reuben’s restaurant, and defned by an illuminated wall holding 5,000 bottles of wine. At the opposite end of the lobby and lounge is Nobu, the frst African outpost of Master Chef Nobuyuki ‘Nobu’ Matsuhisa’s internationally acclaimed empire that serves as the property’s fne dining concept. It has the distinction of being the frst Nobu with a kid’s sushi menu, which is complemented by sushi-making classes for kids available through its comprehensive KidsOnly program.
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Entrance of the One & Only Cape Town.
As Cape Town is quickly becoming a foodie destination, it should come as no surprise that Executive Chef Reuben Rifel is a local celebrity; a local boy of modest means who learned to cook at his mother’s side and has risen through the ranks to become a star in the global culinary stratosphere. Te cuisine at Reuben’s pays homage to its South African patrons. Sommelier Luvo Ntezo, possesses an arguably unrivaled and infectious passion for his trade, and South African varietals in particular (and not at all afraid to cite shortcomings when his nose or palette dictates). He is consistently rated tops among his peers in all of South Africa. Overnight guests can choose from 91 guest rooms and suites in the tower overlooking the marina or one of 40 rooms that surround the spa on secluded and lushly landscaped islands only accessibly by a footbridge. The spa is one of the most comprehensive in the region, ofering 12 treatment suites, two vitality pools, sauna and steam rooms, a hair salon and the Bastien Gonzalez Pedi:Mani:Care Studio. A large free-form pool and restaurant round out the spa island amenities. A large ftness center in the main resort building boasts a dedicated Kinesis training room and studios for Yoga and Pilates. 38 slmag.net
Tere is a certain discernable gentleness palpable among South Africans, which comes through in the service at the One & Only. When someone responds “my pleasure” to a request, it never seemed contrived. Although be warned that when a local remarks that they’ll see you “now now,” it could be five minutes or 45. A scenario, it should be noted, that I never encountered with hotel staf. With its Mediterranean climate, abundance of wineries, 70 peaks above 950 feet, extensive coastline and semi-arid fringes, at times I felt as though I was traveling through California (the concept of “Cape Time,” also reminded me of a California casual attitude). Day trips encompass the mountains to the sea with areas of interest from art to zoology. Tose seeking to view the “Big Five” can do so as part of a day safari at a game park less than two hours away. The aforementioned shark experience is a 2.5-hour scenic drive along the picturesque “Garden Route.” I’m told Chris Fallows of Apex Shark Expeditions (and the One & Only’s preferred tour provider), is among the best, providing exhilarating experiences that are respectful of the sharks and their environment. A visit to the rugged Cape of Good Hope, situated at the perceived meeting point of the Atlantic and Indian Oceans, provides the chance to see 250 species of birds, baboons and scores of picturesque overlooks.
5,000 bottles of wine are on view outside Reuben's Restaurant.
Chef Reuben Rifel
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Te Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve Photo by Alain Proust/iAfrika Photos. Courtesy Cape Town Tourism.
Penguins on Boulder Beach. Photo by Bridget Williams.
Baboons at Cape Point. Courtesy Cape Town Tourism.
Oenophiles will definitely want to explore the Cape Winelands. Rent a car, or better yet, arrange for a driver or charter a helicopter to shuttle you from one vineyard to the next. Notable stops include the Delaire Graff Estate and the Waterford Estate in Stellenbosch. At the former, Laurence Graf OBE (of the Graf Diamond family) has spent the past 12 years transforming the estate into one of the most prestigious on the Cape. If you like something more sparkling than wine, check out the fagship Graf Diamonds store – the frst in Africa – and prepare to have you breath taken away. Te property serves as a repository for contemporary South African art. Two on-site restaurants serve elegant cuisine comprised of locally grown, ethically sourced ingredients.
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At the Waterford Estate, enjoy a wine and chocolate experience amid the old citrus groves, rolling lawns, and fragrant lavender and rosemary beds reminiscent of Provence. I particularly enjoyed having a glass of the 2010 Kevin Arnold Shiraz with its namesake, Waterford Estate’s winemaker and one of the most respected winemakers in South Africa. “It’s the best example of Shiraz in Stellenbosch,” said Ntezo, who also recommended that those looking to add to their cellar should opt for Te Jem 2010. “I like that the blend is produced from the poorest soil in the region, because of the leanness, dryness and length of fnish it lends to the wine,” he explained. Ntezo’s final piece of advice? “Please don’t drink the local sherry. It’s made for and drunk primarily by senior citizens, for whom taste is irrelevant.”
40 rooms at the One & Only Cape Town surround the spa on lushly landscaped islands that are only accessibly by a footbridge.
Te cellar at the Waterford Estate in Stellenbosch. Photo by Bridget Williams.
At press time, $100 USD was equivalent to $1,395 South African Rand. This presents an incredible value for the U.S. traveler (the math wiz in our group tabulated that the most expensive entrée at Nobu – Taban Yaki Wagyu Beef – cost just $35 USD. Collectors of indigenous art and craft should also plan to bring along an extra (empty) suitcase for bringing back wares from the Watershed. Located a little more than block from the One & Only, this sprawling space is home to 150 tenants displaying unique wares from furniture to textiles, fashion and jewelry. Te Woodstock Art District, located in a suburb with a manufacturing history, is quickly becoming a hub for creative types and those who seek out their unique creations. Guests of the One & Only can create a customized art tour led by João
Te vineyards at the Delaire Graf Estate. Photo by Bridget Williams.
Ferreira, who has worked in the South African art market for over 20 years. As we discovered while traversing the rolling roads that wound along the coast and around the scrubby peaks, Cape Town provided exciting discoveries around every bend. Te bohemian atmosphere at Kalk Bay, the intensely hued homes that define the Bo Kaap neighborhood, the playful penguin colony on Boulder Beach, the English enclave at Simon’s Town, experiencing delightful desolation while horseback riding on the wide, wide sands of Long Beach, and surveying the high-dollar homes that line Clifton Beach just scratched the surface. My unfulflled wish to rendezvous with Great Whites leaves me with the perfect excuse to plan a return trip and dig a little deeper into this fascinating corner of the world. sl
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Bibliotaph... Model Behavior
Compiled by Victoria Chase
As the model monarch, born in 1926, married in 1947 and crowned in 1953, nearly every aspect of Queen Elizabeth's life has been captured on flm. Utilizing hundreds of photographs from the likes of Lord Snowdon and Annie Leibovitz, many published for the frst time, this book intertwines, history, politics, high society and global travel to tell the story of her six-decade reign. Christopher Warwick (author), Reuel Golden (editor) - Her Majesty - Hardcover, 306 pages, Taschen Books (taschen.com). In the era prior to digital cameras, Polaroids were essential for testing lighting and the setting. In the post digital world, they've become cherished relics of a bygone era. Photographer Bruno Bisang shares a cross-section of his Polaroid archives,including sessions with supermodels such as Naomi Campbell and Tyra Banks. Bruno Bisang - 30 Years of Polaroids - Hardcover, 208 pages, teNeues Publishing (teneues.com). Maker and muse–Mario Testino and Kate Moss–examine two decades of collaboration, from candid early shots backstage at runway shows to glossy spreads for fashion magazines. Many of the images were culled from Testino's private archives and make their published debut in this tome. Mario Testino Kate Moss by Mario Testino - Hardcover, 228 pages, Taschen Books (taschen.com).
Fashion photographer André de Dienes met aspiring model Norma Jean Dougherty in 1945. In the few years that followed, the two were briefy engaged, embarked on several road trips and amassed a volume of portraits that would help the ingénue launch her legendary career. Steve Crist (editor) - André de Dienes: Marilyn Monroe - Hardcover, 616 pages, Taschen Books (taschen.com).
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bib 'li' o 'taph, [bib-lee-uhtaf, -tahf ]: a person who caches or hoards books Fashion icon and photographer Karl Lagerfeld focused his lens solely on model Claudia Schifer for his second Stern Fotografe portfolio. Karl Lagerfeld - Claudia & Karl Hardcover, 94 pages, teNeues Publishing (teneues.com).
Among the many starlets Hollywood photographer Bob Willoughby captured - Marilyn Monroe, Elizabeth Taylor and Jane Fonda to name a few - Audrey Hepburn remained his favorite. He was among the frst to photograph the fedging star shortly she arrived in Hollywood in 1953. From then, the two became lifelong friends, with Willoughby capturing images from her personal and professional life. Bob Willoughby - Bob Willoughby: Audrey Hepburn, Photographs 1953-1966 - Hardcover, 280 pages, Taschen Books (taschen.com).
From the late 1950s until his death in 1987, Andy Warhol used Polaroids as a method to chronicle his daily life and encounters. Tis book, created in collaboration with the Andy Warhol Foundation, features hundred of these candid images, the Instagram of his era, with many published for the frst time. Richard B. Woodward (author), Reuel Golder (editor) - Andy Warhol: Polaroids - Hardcover, 560 pages, Taschen Books (taschen.com).
Te master of glamour-meetsgrunge, fashion designer and California native Rick Owens launched his eponymous line in 1994. Now based in Paris, where his signature style has been afectionately labeled "glunge", this book examines his design trajectory through the lens of noted fashion photographers. Terry Jones (editor) - Rick Owens Hardcover, 120 pages, Taschen Books (taschen.com).
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HOTEL CONFIDENTIAL
Te Ritz-Carlton New York, Central Park Written by Abigail Hamilton
Boredom in the Big Apple is not a word one would typically expect a visitor to banter about considering the city’s myriad of sights, sounds and setbacks (frustratingly infinite traffic jams spring to mind). In fact, the frenetic pace and vast array of options can leave one feeling slightly harried by the end of their trip. With a little planning, choosing the right hotel in a primo location and cooperation from Mother Nature, it is very possible to fll a long weekend without ever flling the back seat of a cab. Such was the experience during our recent stay at Te Ritz Carlton. Steps from the front door of the 33-story 1930s building designed by Emery Roth, Central Park’s horse-drawn carriages line Central Park South. Tis enviable location in the heart of Manhattan means that major attractions of the city are a short stroll away. Opened in 2002, the interior of the Forbes Five-Star and AAA Five Diamond property is akin to what one would expect when stepping across the threshold of a Park Avenue apartment belonging to a sophisticated savant. The reception area flows into Te Star Lounge, where the warm wood paneling and gilt 44 slmag.net
accents are mirrored by the golden service of legendary New York bartender Norman Bukofzer (think Mel Brooks-meetsGene Wilder). The elegant environs are further enhanced by a museum-quality collection of paintings, including examples from contemporary landscape artist Steve Hannock and postimpressionist NYC native Samuel Halpert. Te same ambiance is extended to the Auden Bistro, open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Executive Chef Mark Arnao infuses the artisanal menu with dishes refective of his varied background and experience; he cites green curry chicken, sushi and foie gras terrine among his favorites to prepare. In the 259 guest rooms and 47 suites, dark wood gives way to soothing shades of celadon, taupe and pale rose executed in plush upholstery, brocade drapery and intricately textured carpets. Cloud-like beds are dressed in 400 thread-count linens, feather duvets and a choice of seven pillow types to ensure a perfect night’s sleep. Spacious bathrooms are sheathed in marble and boast deep soaking tubs and a separate shower.
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Luxurious amenities come as no surprise in a RitzCarlton property, but what consistently sets the brand apart is their unwavering commitment to providing exceptional guest experiences. For instance, a brief mention during booking that our visit coincided with a birthday celebration prompted a welcome amenity of bubbly, balloons and a miniature version of the NYC skyline rendered in dark chocolate waiting for us on the console table in the foyer of our room. Young guests of the property will be treated to cookies and milk at turndown and an amenity bag with branded items to be used throughout their stay, while pampered pooches (those weighing less than 60 pounds) are treated to a posh dog bed, rainproof trench coat for walks in the park and ceramic dinnerware. During our stay we opted to upgrade with Club Lounge access and treated it as our own personal living room, visiting
several times a day, beginning with breakfast at a table overlooking the bustle of Central Park and ending with a glass of bubbly while we refected on our day while settled into one of the comfortable seating areas. Te Ritz-Carlton Central Park has the designation of being the frst American full-service luxury day spa branded by La Prairie Switzerland, the world-renowned skincare line. Top-tier services are available in the European-style spa or in-room. Complementing the spa facilities is a comprehensive ftness center. While “location, location, location� might be enough for some properties, the Ritz-Carlton Central Park goes a step beyond to provide service as memorable as the views. Te Ritz-Carlton Central Park is located at 50 Central Park South. For more information or reservations, call 212.308.9100 or visit ritzcarlton.com. sl slmag.net
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Curating a Lifestyle: Hot Of the Block Written by Amelia and Jef Jefers 1
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Just as winter brings cooler temperatures, the auction world heats up for the busiest season of the year. Check out these recent prices - hot of the auction block. 1) In a bygone era, news stands were adorned with artwork by such renowned illustrator artists as Norman Rockwell and N.C. Wyeth. Tis painting by George Hughes graced the cover of a 1961 issue of Te Saturday Evening Post and elicited spirited bidding when it sold for $44,400 this fall. 2) Collectors are drawn to the organic shapes and vibrant colors of Dale Chihuly’s work. Tis small, Seaform bowl and nesting ball crossed the auction block at $3,250. 3) Te market for vintage wines and spirits is hot right now, as evidenced by this early case of Booth’s Finest Dry Gin. Distilled in London and imported into Canada decades ago, this case of 12 bottles commanded $4,500 at auction in December. 4) A vintage Swiss travel clock in silver with mother-of-pearl dial is adorned with Masonic iconography, sold $7,500. 5) Tis Rolex President model from the 1980s is the epitome of timeless style, the design having changed very little since President Eisenhower donned one while in the White House. It sold for $21,000 at auction. 6) Te sophisticated but simple lines of this chair (by noted designer T.H. RobsjohnGibbings for Widdicomb) appeals to today’s lifestyle, resulting in an auction price of $2,760. 7) A graduated set of six wonderful silver-plated food domes and trays by Gorham nest in a lovely ftted trunk, lined with blue velvet. Dated 1891 and monogrammed “E.B.” the set fetched $2,640. 8) An unassuming, small painted box from the early 19th century surprised many in the saleroom when it soared to $63,000. From Somerset County, Pennsylvania, the box is part of a very rare group by the same, unknown, maker. Amelia & Jef Jefers are co-owners of two fne art, antique and bespoke collectibles companies: Garth's of Delaware, Ohio and Selkirk of St. Louis, Missouri.
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Of Note... What’s in Store - Chic Storage Solutions for Keeping New Year’s Resolutions 1
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1) Tree shelves of the Model Bookcase from Teodore Alexander feature nude female fgures in polished aluminum as supports (price upon request; theodorealexander.com). 2) Te handcarved Rouen break front from Ebanista stands nearly eight-feet-tall (price upon request; ebanista.com). 3) Te Rider Étagère from Jonathan Adler presents a revised take on French Empire style crafted in black lacquer with antiqued brass accents ($2,995; jonathanadler.com). 4) Palm rectangular hamper from Waterworks ($240; waterworks.com). 5) Archive toy box from Land of Nod ($399; landofnod.com). 6) Saba walnut dressing table from Arteriors Home features two drawers with antique brass pulls ($4,500; arteriorshome.com).
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7) Te Coleccionista bookcase from Boca Do Lobo can be placed against a wall or used as a room divider (price upon request; bocadolobo.com). 8) Te Tivoli single door display cabinet from Habersham features three interior wood-framed glass shelves, LED lights and exterior Cremones bolt lock (price upon request; habershamhome.com). 9) Downing cofee table from Kate Spade features an inset brass storage/display tray ($3,365; katespade.com). 10) Te Machinto double-door glass cabinet from RH Modern was inspired by 1970s postmodern design ($2895-$3595; rhmodern.com).
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Harvey Keitel, Rachel Weisz and Michael Caine at the 2015 BFI London Film Festival. Photo by Stuart C. Wilson/Getty Images for BFI.
Toni Garrn at the 2015 Bambi Awards in Berlin, Germany. Photo by Alexander Koerner/Getty Images for AIGNER.
An Afair to Remember
Inspiration for after-dark attire and accessories apropos from cocktails to the red carpet Compiled by Victoria Chase
Andre Lotterer at the 65th Berlinale International Film Festival. Photo by Franziska Krug/Getty Images for AUDI AG.
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Pictured is Sienna Miller at the 2015 BFI London Film Festival. Photo by John Phillips/Getty Images for BFI. 1) Ohbon Night Owl necklace ($275; ohbon.com). 2) Jude Frances narrow beaded Maltese cuf ($450; judefrances.com). 3) Sandra Biachi Allure gold band ($1,008; sandrabiachi.com). 4) Butani diamond fnger armour ring (price upon request; butani.com). 5) Le Vian Couture 18k Strawberry Gold Lace & Chains bracelet with Blueberry Tanzanite, Chocolate Diamonds and Vanilla Diamonds ($25,797; levian.com). 6) Neely Phelan Arrowhead drop necklace ($300; neelyphelan.com). 7) Jimmy Choo Lorelai 100 foral glittered leather ankle-strap pumps ($1,495; saksffthavenue.com). 8) Jill Haber Sebastian Mackeral top-handle shoulder box ($2,150; jillhaber.com).
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Pictured is Nazan Eckes at the 2015 Bambi Awards in Berlin, Germany. Photo by Alexander Koerner/Getty Images for AIGNER. 1) Alexandra Mor High Jewelry collection detachable diamond bow and ruby earrings (price upon request; alexandramor.com). 2) Lydia Courteille Rainbow Warrior earrings in 18K gold with fancy sapphires, turquoise, rubies, tsavorites, and amethyst (price upon request; lydiacourteille.com). 3) Bijoux in black mesh from Paul Andrew (paulandrew.com). 4) Sutra black gold, diamond and turquoise drop earrings (price upon request; sutrajewels.com). 5) Edie Parker Flavia clutch with satin embroidery panel ($1,795; edieparker.com). 6) Armour Beauty's Vegan Armour V lip gloss in: Funhouse ($21; armourbeauty.com).
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Pictured is Sara Sampaio at the 68th annual Cannes Film Festival. Photo by Venturelli/WireImage. 6) Avakian diamond and emeral earrings (price upon request; avakian.com). 7) Carrera y Carrera Sierpes maxi earrings in yellow gold, onyx and diamonds (price upon request; carreraycarrera.com). 8) Two-sided La Cigale clutch from Emm Kuo reads "Oui" on one side and "No" on the other ($819; emmkuo.com). 9) Sergio Rossi Chrysalide sandal crafted from organic silk, lead-free Swarovski Advanced Elements crystals and naturallytanned chrome-free leather. ($1,250; sergiorossi.com). 10) Cream eyeliner from Bassam Fattouh Cosmetics ($33; bassamfattouh.com). 11) Tis Gown Needs a Crown satin fnish nail lacquer from OPI ($9; opi.com).
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Pictured are Caroline Beil & Philipp Sattler at the 2015 Leipzig Opera Ball in Germany. Photo by Franziska Krug/Getty Images for Leipziger Opera Ball. 56 slmag.net
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Pictured this page is Natalie Portman at the 65th Berlinale International Film Festival in Berlin, Germany. Photo by Franziska Krug/Getty Images for AUDI AG. 1) Panerai Pocket Watch 3 Days Oro Bianco (price upon request; panerai.com). 2) Monique Lhuillier Beloved blue topaz and diamond pear-shaped pendant in 18k white gold ($1,150; moniquelhuillier.com). 3) Oscar de la Renta Alyssa metallic leather and PVC beaded pumps in gold ($1,190; saksffthavenue.com). 4) de Grigsogono Cufinks in yellow gold and onyx (price upon request; degrisogono.com). 5) Gold and diamond Anniversary Collection bracelet from Antonini (price upon request; antonini.it). 6) Smathers & Branson monogrammed needlepoint cummerbund ($220; smathersandbranson.com). 7) Tresor sandals from Sergio Rossi ($1,250; sergiorossi.com). 8) Anti-aging Intensive Moisturizer with VENefect advanced phytoestrogen technology ($185; venefect.com). 9) Closed on Monday men's matte moisturizer ($38; closedonmonday.co). 10) Mercedes-Benz Le Parfum for Men 120 ml ($120; perfume.mercedes-benz.com). 11) Bavna diamond earrings (price upon request; bavna.com). 12) Yoko London gold, diamond and South Sea pearl necklace (price upon request; yokolondon.com). 13) Aquazzura Iris fur and feather-trimmed suede D'Orsay strappy sandals ($950; saksffthavenue.com). 14) Ohbon Noir Nights bracelet ($979; ohbon.com). 15) Diamond Links bracelet by Harry Winston (price upon request; harrywinston.com). 16) Nomad Cosmetics New York beauty palette with SensExperience scented packaging ($50; NomadMakeup.com). 17) Shiseido Shimmering Rouge lipstick ($25; shiseido.com).
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THE DISH
An Italian food writer shares a hearty recipe for comfort food that suits the season. Written by Bridget Williams
Lake Como native Paola Lovisetti Scamihorn worked as a pharmaceutical scientist in Belgium and Austria for more a decade before returning to her Italian hometown and shifting her attention to cooking, nutrition and wellness. In addition to her cooking blog (passionandcooking.com), she contributes to several international magazines, collaborates with an athlete/personal trainer to ofer tailor-made programs on healthy food and proper training, and has recently published a new cookbook - Love is Eating, Healthy and Tasty Italian Recipes for Family Meals - that utilizes photographs, recipes, and historical and nutritional facts to embody her vision of food, science, health, love and passion. sl
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BRAISED BEEF IN BAROLO WINE WITH POLENTA – BRASATO AL BAROLO CON POLENTA (Piedmont) “Te name brasato derives from brace (BRA-chay), the hot coals over which the meat was traditionally cooked. Braised beef marinated in a fne Barolo wine is one of the most representative and classic dishes of the Piedmont region, a savory delight for a cozy dinner on cold nights. Barolo is a rich, deeply concentrated full-bodied wine, with pronounced tannins and acidity (and therefore ideal for marinating). You can enjoy brasato like we Italians do, with polenta – ‘the Italian grits’. Now, defying its humble origin, polenta has also been discovered by a new, sophisticated audience and it is frequently found in gourmet restaurants. You can also enjoy it with cheese like Gorgonzola.” Total preparation time: 12 hours (Cooking time is 2 ½ hours) Servings: 4 INGREDIENTS (Brasato) (2 lbs) cappello di prete, beef chuck roast 1 bottle Barolo wine 3 carrots 1 celery rib 1 yellow onion 3 garlic cloves 2 sprigs fresh rosemary 2 bay leaves 1 stick of cinnamon 3 peppercorns 3 cloves 3 Tbsp butter 2-3 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil Sea salt to taste Polenta 1.5 quarts water 1 scant Tbsp kosher salt 2 cups cornmeal 2-3 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil DIRECTIONS Day 1 You should start preparation the day before you plan to cook the meat. 1. Tie the meat with a cotton string so it keeps its shape. 2. Cut the carrots, the celery and the onion into large pieces, and put in a large glass bowl with the meat and the bay leaves, rosemary, cinnamon, cloves and pepper. Add the wine. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 12 hours. Tis is important to reduce the proliferation of bacteria.
Day 2 1. After 12 hours remove the meat from the bowl and dry it with some paper towels. 2. In a Dutch oven, heat the olive oil and the butter on high heat, sauté the meat over medium heat for 5 minutes on both sides. 3. Add the vegetables with the wine, and some salt to taste, to the pot containing the meat. 4. Cover and cook on low heat for at least 2 ½ hours. Te meat should be so tender that it could be carved with a spoon. While meat is cooking prepare polenta. 5. In a heavy saucepan bring the water to boil. Add salt. Reduce the heat to low and gradually whisk in the cornmeal to prevent lumps from forming. Cover and cook for 5 minutes. 6. Remove the lid and stir constantly with a wooden spoon on high heat. Continue to stir for about 40 minutes (according to package cooking time) until the polenta is thickened. It should separate from the sides of the pan, and be able to support a spoon. 7. Add 2-3 Tbsp olive oil and mix well. Pour the polenta onto a wooden cutting board, let stand for a few minutes. 8. In the meantime remove the meat from the pan. Discard the rosemary sprigs and the bay leaves. 9. Blend the vegetables and liquid with an electric blender, and then boil to reduce the sauce for 2-3 minutes. 10. Slice the meat when it is no longer too hot (it will be easier to slice). 11. Cut the polenta into slices using either a knife or, according to the peasant tradition, a cotton string. You can also enjoy the crust; it tastes like Mexican tortillas. I love it 12. Pour the sauce on the meat and serve with polenta. Note: Barolo wine needs to be matched with food of similar weight such as meat dishes, heavy pasta and rich risotto, and it is excellent for marinating. In fact, marinades work their magic due to the acids in the wine, which break down muscle tissue and tenderize the meat. An appropriate Barolo substitute is Barbera or another full-bodied red wine. In this case let it marinate longer, about 18 hours. Polenta is not difcult to make but needs a lot of attention and nearly constant stirring. Te best pan to use should be a copper pot surrounded by the cooking flame (a large gas-burner is ideal). In the past – and indeed still today – farmers cooked polenta over an open fire, and this is without doubt the tastiest version you can eat! slmag.net
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Tokaj, Hungary
Written and photographed by Scott Harper, Master Sommelier
Te beautiful capital city of Hungary is Budapest. Buda and Pest were once separate cities physically divided by the Danube River; they are now unifed by several bridges, including the lovely Chain Bridge, making it easy to go back and forth between the two. Budapest is safe, very afordable, lively and home to just fewer than two million of the 10 million people living in Hungary. A member of the European Union since 2014, Hungary is located at the juncture of numerous cultures of Central Europe. Spend two or three days in the capital city, but allow the same amount of time if not more for the classic wine region of Tokaj. Tokaj is a mere twohour drive from Budapest in the northeastern part of the Hungary. Tis is exactly what I did, and I am thankful for it. Budapest, but in particular Tokaj, is quickly recovering from the stifing communist regime, which ended in 1989. Before this time, Tokaj had long been well-known as a high-quality classic dessert wine region. Te dessert wine Tokaj Aszu has been said to be a wine of kings and a king of wines. Nevertheless, we are going to save Tokaj Aszu for another day and talk about the dry wine revolution that is underway in Tokaj with the indigenous Furmint grape leading the way. Dry Furmint is emerging as the standard barrier for dry white wine in Hungary. Tis white wine is showing huge potential and it should, as they simply do not make red wine in Tokaj. Furmint possesses everything you would like about a dry white wine –
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refreshing crisp acidity and vibrant fruit such as lemon, apple, mandarin orange and apricot, all in a medium-bodied frame with a balancing bitterness that is both refreshing and structure-adding. It takes to very light oak treatment well or is delicious without it. Te region of Tokaj became a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2002. I certainly agree, as it is a naturally beautiful place, from the confuence of the Bodrog and the Tisza Rivers, to the foothills of the ZemplĂŠn Mountains, which add a generally hilly topography that lends itself to the terraced vineyards and beautiful vistas. Tere are 27 villages in Tokaj, and you may see them on the label. Te mostly likely and important trio is the eponymous Tokaj, Mad and Tarcal. Most of the wineries are small, family-owned and operated. In this historic area it is ironic that the oldest winery we visited was just 23-years-old, with the average age of the wineries visited being just under 13 years. Given that private ownership has been allowed just since the fall of communism in 1989, it is truly remarkable how far the region has come. Despite the youthfulness of wineries, the region is riddled with a vast matrix of caves dating as far back as the 15th century. Some of the caves are less then six-feettall, while others exceed 12-feet in height. Some are short in length and concise, while still other caves are a labyrinth and would require a map to successfully traverse. Most are snapshots in time complete with the legendary black mold, which for the most part is allowed or even encouraged as it helps maintain a consistent level of humidity.
PRODUCERS Tere is simply not enough room to write about all the quality producers in Tokaj. While the list below does not include them all, I encourage you to try Dobogo Winery, Holdvolgy Winery, Basilicus Winery and Majoros Estate, as well as Kvaszinger Winery. Visiting the wineries is a very pleasant experience as the Hungarian people are friendly and hospitable with an excellent sense of humor and love to show you their wines. Difcult to fnd and difcult to pronounce, these wines will reward your eforts. BARTA WINERY Founded in 2003, the Barta Family owns one of the most important, high-quality vineyards in Tokaj known as Oreg Kiraly Dulo or the Old King Vineyard in the village of Mad. Atilla Homonna is the winemaker. Furmint Old King Vineyard (Oreg Kiraly Dulo) 2012 - Dry and crisp with the favors of apple, lemon, lime, mineral and a light herbal tinge, all in a medium- to full-body that is tasty and delicious. GRÓF DEGENFELD WINERY Founded in 1996 and owned by the Count Degenfeld Family. Degenfeld Hotel is the place to stay in the region and is located on the same grounds as their vineyards and winery, making it a great
place to visit the winery and its forward-thinking winemaker Vivien Ujvari. Furmint Estate 2014 - Honeysuckle, yellow apple, apricot, mandarin orange and ginger with a light mineral favor combine in this fresh, dry, medium-bodied wine with light oak ageing. ERZSÉBET CELLAR Founded in 1992 and owned by the Pracser Family. Every family member involved has a degree in viticulture and oenology including Hajnalka Prascer, the intelligent and affable estate manager. Hajnalka’s husband Ronn Wiegand is a Master Sommelier and Master of Wine and also helps at the winery. Furmint Estate 2012-Tasty mandarin orange, apricot and peach that is dry, crisp, complex and full-favored. An intense yet refreshing wine with delicious minerals in a medium frame. BÉRES ESTATE Founded in 2002 and owned by the Beres Family, the estate benefits from the family business acumen of Beres Drops, a nutritional supplement known globally. Awarded Hungary’s most beautiful winery in 2015. Furmint Estate 2014 - Fresh, lively and crisp, bursting with citrus, green apple and light white peach with a medium body and a fnish that is both vivacious and persistent. sl A Certifed Wine Educator, Harper is one of 140 professionals in North America and 220 worldwide who have earned the title Master Sommelier.
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Crossing Over With the debut of the XT5, Cadillac sets its sight on being tops in sales of crossover vehicles in the U.S. market Written by Andre James
One of the oldest automobile brands in the world, Cadillac demonstrated its staying power with the U.S. debut of its frstever 2017 Crossover Touring 5 (XT5) at the Los Angeles auto show this past November. “Te all-new XT5 not only enters the most popular segment in the worldwide luxury auto market, it is the frst of four new crossovers from Cadillac,” said Cadillac President Johan de Nysschen. “It’s pivotal to our ongoing growth, which is why we’ve developed XT5 from the inside out to provide customers more space, more technology, more luxury and more efciency.” A far cry from Cadillac’s first models, the 1902 twoseat Runabout and the rear-entrance Tonneau, which were powered by a 10 hp single-cylinder engine, the XT5 runs on a new 3.6-liter V6 engine with an estimated peak output of 310-horsepower and 270 lb-ft of torque. Featuring Active Fuel Management cylinder deactivation technology, the engine can seamlessly and automatically switch to a fuel-saving fourcylinder mode under low or moderate loads. Weighing in at 278 pounds lighter than the current Cadillac SRX, the unique new chassis improves body rigidity and crash performance while increasing rear-seat legroom by 3.2 inches
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compared to the SRX and allowing rear seats to recline and slide fore and aft. The lightweight structure of the XT5 is stiffer and stronger than the SRX due to the use of improved materials and advanced design methods. A diagonal “A-frame” front chassis brace in the underbody was added to provide a more solid driver feel and tautness for the vehicle in turns. Te resulting architecture imbues the car with a frmly planted stance, and a lean and sleek look. An eight-speed automatic transmission is standard for the XT5, which also debuts Electronic Precision Shift – the first electronically controlled transmission shifter for a Cadillac. Electronic Precision Shift reduces noise and vibration and allows further use of the cabin space with storage beneath the center console. An optional “twin clutch” all-wheel drive system is engineered specifically for strong performance in wet, snowy or icy conditions and also provides enhanced stability in dry weather. Te AWD system is driver-controlled and includes a new “disconnect” feature that disables the rear drive unit for improved fuel efciency and reduced emissions. Te new suspension features lightweight components with a MacPherson Strut design in the front and a fve-link independent design at the rear.
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Standard wheels are 18 inches with 20-inch wheels optional. All versions equipped with 20-inch wheels have a Continuous Damping Control system to manage ride control in real time. The XT5 boasts Cadillac’s latest production systems for connectivity and safety. A rear camera mirror system enhances the driver’s rear vision up to 300 percent by utilizing a video display applied over the conventional inside rearview mirror. An HDR camera records wider images behind the car, streams the image to video processing software that “removes” obstacles such as the roof, rear pillars and rear seat passengers, and then projects an unobstructed view to a Liquid Crystal Display. Automatic front and rear braking for low-speed conditions, Lane Keeping Assist, Rear Cross Trafc Alert, Side Blind Zone Alert, full-speed range Adaptive Cruise Control and Automatic Parking Assist are all part of Cadillac’s Driver Awareness and Driver Assist packages to aid vision and collision avoidance Befitting its place in the luxury crossover market, the interior of the XT5 emphasizes comfort, clean lines and fine craftsmanship. “We believe that luxury crossover customers particularly focus on interior design and materials,” said Andrew Smith, Cadillac’s executive director of global design. “Tis design direction is predicated on modern craftsmanship and the artistic integration of technology.” 64 slmag.net
As is the case with all Cadillac models, the interior is assembled with cut-and-sewn wrapped panels, rather than molded surfaces typical of mainstream vehicles. A Platinum edition, initially made popular on Cadillac’s Escalade, provides additional options for unique interior and exterior trim and materials and combines them with the highest technology features. In total, the XT5 includes fve interior color and trim choices, with decorative trim options ranging from carbon fber to two types of aluminum and three types of genuine wood. Te XT5 features an integrated wireless charger for mobile devices and 4G wireless connectivity, with a standard integrated Wi-Fi hotspot, and standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for simpler in-car phone integration. Te rear lift gate of the XT5 includes hands-free operation, allowing it to open or close via gesture control beneath the rear bumper. An optional color reconfigurable Heads-Up Display is available. Cadillac’s signature LED light pipes are standard inside and out, while full LED headlamps are optional. A Surround Vision feature enables a “bird’s eye” view of the perimeter around the car to assist in parking. As the replacement for Cadillac’s popular SRX, the XT5 aims to fnally take the top U.S. sales spot from its primary rival, the Lexus RS. Production is scheduled to commence in the spring. sl
A WELL MANORED COLLECTION Written by Bridget Williams Photography by Andrew Kung
Following an article in The Enquirer in the mid-1970s highlighting his frst contemporary interior design project, David Millett received a slew of commissions, along with a reputation as the go-to guy for those whose tastes lie outside the traditional. Knowing this, visitors to his Indian Hill home, where he’s lived with his wife Martha for 35 years and raised two sons, are quite surprised to fnd an abundance of antiques amassed by the consummate collectors arranged within in a relatively traditional framework. “Somehow the contemporary commissions stand out in people’s minds, but I love all types of design as long as it’s good and balanced,” said David.
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“This home really is an accumulation of our different hobbies and collections,” explained David, who has spearheaded a process of continuous expansion and renovations on the sprawling home and landscape, which encompasses fve acres and includes a pool, pool house and guesthouse within a renovated barn. Te bulk of the couple’s collecting has focused on fne oil paintings, cut glass, marble busts and chinoiseries. David, an accomplished artist in his own right, is particularly drawn to portraits and genre paintings. “Tey emulate feelings to me. I can look at a painting for a quite long time and study the mood and emotion it conveys,” he explained. Originally a modest farmhouse, subsequent renovations have expanded the kitchen and dining rooms and added bedrooms and a total of three family rooms spread out over as many floors. “I always have to have a project, “ Millett joked. In the entry is one of Millett’s favorite paintings Samuel Anointing David - which has been authenticated to the 14th century. Surmounting an antique chest upon which two pieces of cut glass fank a fgural clock, the vignette perfectly encapsulates the theme that pervades the entirety of the home.
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Te entryway receives an abundance of natural light courtesy of a 4’x8’ skylight; Millett emulated that feeling in the dining room, where a similarly proportioned mirror inset into the geometric wallpapered ceiling above the table lends the illusion of a skylight. Salmon-colored silk chinoiserie upholstery on the dining chairs links the bold pattern found on the ceiling with those in the Oriental rug. At the far end of the room an antique bufet provides an ideal spot for displaying pieces from their collection. Another favorite painting - The Bride of Laramore - is prominently displayed in the living room, which boasts a wood-paneled cathedral ceiling and several sets of French doors leading to a balcony that overlooks the verdant acreage. “It’s amazing what a single piece of art can do to change the mood of a room,” said Millett. Scattered throughout the space are combination of antique Chinese and Japanese pieces, some of which are quite ornate.
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A split staircase at one end of the living room features iron panels that hearken to another one of David’s collecting interests - antique iron gates. While the examples forming the balustrades are not antique, in the second foor family room he designed a window around a tall, fnely detailed iron gate with an arched top that was installed using its original hinges so that the window can be easily cleaned. Another interesting feature in the family room is how Millett tackled the common problem of gussying up a wall-mounted television. In this instance he afxed antique wrought iron brackets to a pair of columns and suspended a shelf between the two and over the television to emulate the look of a built-in unit. Figures and cut glass pieces are displayed on the shelf and atop a credenza that is positioned underneath the television. Millett remarked that while they aren’t actively seeking new pieces for their collection they can always make room if a great piece comes along. Tey will also rotate pieces from time to time to imbue a given room with a feeling of newness. A boon of being both a copious collector and an interior designer is that Millett often inspires a similar fervor among his clients, particularly as it relates to art glass. On more than one occasion a piece from his personal collection is given a new life in a client’s home, anchoring what will no doubt will be an equally inspired assemblage under David’s discerning eye. sl
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FUNKY’S TRANSEPT Written by Lisa Stephenson Powell Photography by Andrew Kung In 1942, as the US was embroiled in its Second World War, Paramount Pictures whipped up a delightful cinematic concoction entitled Holiday Inn. It starred nimble footed Fred Astaire, and vocally nimble Bing Crosby, as song and dance men who perform at a theatre that is only open on Tanksgiving, Christmas, New Year’s Eve, Valentine’s Day, and so on. Te flm’s premise highlights the anticipation, execution and celebration of festive milestones. Michael Forgus, the managing member of Funky’s Catering, knows all about landmark occasions, since they happen every day, sometimes nine times a day, each one embracing a Broadway pulse of preparation. Annually he handles more than two thousand events that range from intimate dinner parties in private homes to corporate seminars with four thousand attendees. Mr. Forgus, who has a thoughtful smile, warm brown eyes and a shock of grey hair, has been in Cincinnati since 1984 and has been involved with the restaurant business since college. His parents immigrated to Canada – his father from South Africa, his mother from Estonia – having fled cultures of oppression. His father earned a PhD in psychology from Cornell and taught at various universities, including Harvard and Oxford, while maintaining a private practice; his mother obtained her PhD in Soviet Studies. As a student at Lake Forest College, near Chicago, Mr. Forgus planned to enter the medical feld.
“My grades were good and my senior thesis on experimental neurology was published, but I didn’t do well on the GRE or the MCAT exams,” he said, “and it was difcult to get into medical school without good scores. But around that time I started working as a bartender at a restaurant in Skokie, Illinois, and soon after they ofered me a job as bar manager. I told my parents that I enjoyed working there, that I really liked what I was doing and that I wouldn’t reapply to med schools.” He paused. “My father didn’t speak to me for about a year.” From there Mr. Forgus’ career progressed along pivotal points of a culinary path. He worked at Lawry’s Prime Rib in Chicago; at Pillsbury’s Popin Fresh Pies, a district manager; as vice president of food services for Bally Manufacturing; and consulted with Dennis Berkowitz, who was hired by the Pritzker family to revamp dining establishments within the Hyatt chain. “Mr. Pritzker said, ‘Why is it that when I’m in Europe the best restaurants are in hotels, and in the United States the worst restaurants are in hotels?’ Dennis fxed that. He brought in new Swiss chefs, including Ernst Hoffman and Walter Fey, before moving to San Francisco, where he operated very successful restaurants under the Max’s World banner. When I opened Funky’s Café I basically duplicated seventy percent of his menu because it was so spectacular. I’ve always had the philosophy that slmag.net
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you should go and experience a concept or a menu where you can steal more in fve minutes than you can create in a lifetime.” While he was in school Mr. Forgus performed with a rock and roll band that played R&B and crossover blues and ‘Funky’ was his sobriquet. “Members of the band called me Dr. Funk LTD,” he laughed. “Long Term Disasters, because of the lifestyle I was living.” When he opened his frst restaurant in Cincinnati, Funky’s Blackstone Grille, it was a testimony to a slightly misguided time in his life. ‘Funky’ was a throwback to his life on the road as a musician, while ‘Blackstone’ was the name of his freshman college dorm at Lake Forest College. Other successful locations followed in rapid succession: Funky’s Café, Funky’s Pub and Funky’s Border Cantina. And then from 1998 until 2002 there was, as a hiring manager would note, a gap in his resume as a professional restaurateur. Mr. Forgus left the world of cuisine and became a pastor, ministering at a local church. His wife commented, in disbelief, that once again he found a vocation that 78 slmag.net
engulfed more of his time than the restaurants; duly nudged, he returned to his former passion and started catering full time. As his business plan developed and changed Mr. Forgus has moved toward managing (and owning) the locations that host Funky’s Catering. He is the exclusive caterer for three entities: the Pinecroft at Crosley Estate, the Anderson Pavilion at Smale Park and Te Transept, a previously vacant church in Over-theRhine, which he purchased in 2013. Te building was erected in 1867 and once housed the congregation from Cincinnati’s first German Reformed Church. With the assistance of Ohio Historic Preservation tax credits Mr. Forgus began construction in February of this year and the venue hosted its frst event in September. Gothic in design, with vaulted ceilings, exquisitely refurbished stained glass windows and event spaces on four levels, it also boasts of a spot-on gleaming kitchen, a bridal suite in the former bell tower and streaming natural light that washes over its interior of 20,000 square feet.
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Cincinnati Opera’s Production of Puccini’s Turandot. Photo by David Bachman.
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After forty years in the fne dining profession Mr. Forgus has never wavered from his career philosophy. “I built my business by developing relationships,” he said. “Tat’s why my restaurants had brand equity and loyal customers; I’ve always believed that food is subjective. Te Italian meat sauce made by one person’s grandmother is going to be better than someone else’s. I can do a beautiful seared ahi tuna and one person will say, ‘Oh, this reminds me of my trip to Hawaii,’ while another says, ‘Tat fsh is moving on my plate.’ Or, I can prepare a flet mignon wrapped in prosciutto, medium rare, and one customer will love it, but someone else will respond, ‘I can’t eat that because I see blood.’ But the one thing that is not subjective in dining and hospitality is service. Our team memorializes what the client wants, captures their vision, listens to their requests and are trained to, at a minimum, meet a client’s expectations if not to exceed them. We recently did an event where three thousand fve hundred people were fed in forty-fve minutes. I was never more proud of our total staf – they were organized, disciplined, structured and service focused.” Funky’s Catering has over sixty full time employees and up to one hundred and forty part time employees, all of whom receive
ongoing training. The program, which has been very successful and is quite unique, is called Having a Servant’s Heart. Mr. Forgus has nine captains who orchestrate his events and who complete an individual evaluation for every employee following every function. Some of the ratings points are objective (Did they show up on time? Were they in uniform?), while others are not (Did they follow directions? How did they interact with guests? Did they assimilate into the flow of the event?). Every ninety days an employee’s points are tallied, and then are aligned with a score of A, B or C; compensation is adjusted accordingly. Etiquette training is held monthly for employees with a C rating, and if an employee is rated a C for two months in a row, they are not asked to return. “A person has to have a heart to serve others, and I don’t want people who have a C rating because that tells me that Funky’s is only a way for them to pay for their cell phone bill,” he said. “Employees who have a heart strive to make a difference. My mother told me to believe what people do, not what they say, because their actions reveal their heart. Dealing with human nature is very complicated because a manager has to fgure out how to treat employees fairly, how to train, how to compensate, how to motivate and how to reward.” slmag.net
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Mr. Forgus has reached a happy chapter in his career and in his life. He doesn’t worry about competition from other caterers and if, on a certain day, all of his captains are booked additional engagements are refused. “We are Sold-Out.” This avoids the mistakes that over extended employees may make, leading to a domino efect of disasters. “My Italian grandmother said that pigs get fed and hogs get slaughtered. At a certain point in a career a person has to be happy just to be fed every day, and to be content with what you have.” Mr. Forgus and his wife, who is the senior vice president of operations for the Cincinnati Reds, have three “amazing” daughters. “Tey are the greatest barometers of my life. My life is not about what I’ve done,” he said, “it’s about how your children turn out.” Te all-consuming lifestyle commitment that his career demanded has not been easy on his family, and he noted that when a candle burns at both ends it tends to burn out twice as fast. “My family has paid the costs for my career choices.” 86 slmag.net
At the end of the day, or at the end of an event, Mr. Forgus wants each and every diner to be satisfed with whatever Funky’s Catering has supplied – from food, tables and glassware, to lighting, hot air balloons and rolled cigars – and that it was delivered with the right attitude, a pleasant personality and heart. “Our Mission Statement is to serve,” Mr. Forgus said. “We serve others, to show that we serve Him. I believe that God has put me here to serve people, and I tell that to my employees because it’s our commitment to excellence. Above and beyond the environment, the food and the beverages, a person’s failure or success is determined by the way they treat other people.” On the day this visitor spoke with Mr. Forgus a corporate event was held at Te Transept and lunch had begun. He stood on the side for a few minutes and watched quietly but, having noticed a bottleneck, he quickly slid behind the bufet, picked up a pair of tongs and began placing entrees on the plates of guests. “When things don’t move quickly enough I have to step in,” he said, happily executing his promise to those he was meant to serve. sl
BOYS HOPE GIRLS HOPE By Lisa Stephenson Powell
When children approach their fourth birthday quiet milestones can be expected. They are able to peddle a tricycle; to draw simple shapes; to use a fork and knife; and to navigate steps. However, there is a challenging aspect during the transition from toddler to preschooler -- while a child can blend thoughts and words to form lucid sentences, they may not be able to diferentiate between make-believe and reality. While growing up Debbie Bowman, President of Boys Hope Girls Hope Cincinnati (BHGH), experienced a diferent set of challenges, survived a diferent kind of adolescence and endured a diferent reality. She never knew the gentle world of make believe. From an outsider’s perspective her childhood would be almost unbearable to contemplate, let alone to live. Twelve days before Ms. Bowman turned four her brother was drowned in a bathtub by their mother. Te situations of her family’s despair were as cyclical as the seasons. Her mother was in and out of the hospital, where she received shock treatments for schizophrenia and manic depression, and her employment record was sketchy at best; the four remaining children dealt with foster homes, group homes, couch surfng and a house without electricity or water; her father was on the scene until he chose not to be. “I wanted out of that life,” Ms. Bowman said. “I didn’t want to live with my mother, and I didn’t want to live with shame. People need to be cared about, and they need to be given the tools to fx hopelessness, which is horrible. A lot of people have never experienced it but if you have, it’s an anxiety that you can’t even explain.” 88 slmag.net
Her sense of unhappiness continued as she grew older, and in the fourth grade humiliation at school prompted a better day-today existence. “I was in the cafeteria,” she said. “I didn’t have any money and I didn’t know the woman who was at the cashier point, so I had to say, ‘Free lunch,’ out loud, to her. And it was such an indignity that I vowed I would never say those words again.” Ms. Bowman took on a paper route, and then another, and then a third, and soon made enough money to purchase her own clothes. In the seventh grade she was president of her class and a year later she was president of student council. Behind the scenes? She was living in a garage and bathing at a gas station. Te one positive constant in her life was school. It was there, in Bellevue, Kentucky, that she received decisive recognition for her good grades and athletic ability; she was able to have at least one meal a day; and she received powerful and meaningful care from her teachers and coaches. At the age of ffteen she rented her own apartment, and it was awesome: clean, beautiful and bug free. It was also around that time that Ms. Bowman landed a job at the Lytle Food Shop in downtown Cincinnati, which paid more than her paper route and McDonald’s, and which would give her the confdence to take the herculean step to be freed from the past. Te young vessel in the penurious harbor of adulthood was about to become a satellite. “A woman who lived above the food shop worked at the Cincinnati Art Museum, and encouraged me to apply for a job there,” she said. “I was hired immediately, in the maintenance department, and I did everything. I cleaned restrooms, I worked on
boilers, I did electrical and mechanical projects, and I helped out in the carpenter’s shop. I absolutely loved it. I learned as I went along, the camaraderie was wonderful and it felt like home. Suddenly I was meeting the most interesting people; given my background I had no idea that there was this whole other world out there.” In the theatre the term “triple threat” describes a performer who can not only act, but can sing and dance as well. Ms. Bowman was also multi-talented, and determined, and while working full time at the Museum she went to school at night, had two part time jobs and volunteered in the fnance department (“I loved numbers”). One promotion followed another. During her thirty four years at the Museum she advanced from payroll clerk to accountant, and from bookkeeper to CFO (at twenty three) and to CFO/COO (at thirty three). Every time a department faced a challenge it became hers – the gift shop, the café, the maintenance plan. “I was great at that,” she said. “I went in, I hired knowledgeable people, I challenged them to do things diferently and we fxed problems.” At the age of twenty four -- old enough, she admitted, to have known better -- she married a man who abused her. The circumstances surrounding her marriage were similar to what she had known growing up, and she was comfortable with her husband in that environment. After eight years, three marriage counselors and multiple physical attacks, including those on her daughter, Ms. Bowman left the relationship. “My career path was awesome,” she said. “Te other side of life was not. My childhood was really horrifc. My mother committed suicide. I married a horrible person. And I raised two children alone. Being a parent was rewarding, but hard, and as
a child and young adult, life was flled with stress and anxiety. Tat’s why I feel so fortunate to be here. Who wouldn’t want to do this?” BHGH was founded in 1977 and the local chapter was started six years later. Tere are homes around the country and around the world and Cincinnati has three; two with accommodations for boys and one for girls. Te program at BHGH guides teenagers through the path of achievement, encouraging them to fnish high school and to complete college while instilling them with the confdence, which they often lack, for success. When Ms. Bowman became president the homes were running at a sixty six percent capacity, and now there is a waiting list of more than seventy. Te children have a safe place to live, share meals together and, although it is not faith-based, there is a spiritual focus to their lives. Although they see their families regularly, BHGH assumes the guardianship of their education. Eighty six percent of attendees who graduate from BHGH graduate from college and each child receives $5,000 annually toward their higher education expenses. BHGH also provides college prep programs that assist with selection, application and fnancial assistance. “Our program is a tough sell because it’s expensive,” Ms. Bowman continued, “but so is the criminal system and so is government assistance. Do you want to pay it now, or do you want to pay it later? And I cannot tell you how grateful the children are for this opportunity – you can feel it – and how excited they are about their future. When I visit the homes every single one has diferent personnel, a diferent team and diferent advisors, but they all ofer the same warm atmosphere.” slmag.net
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BHGH has partnered with the law enforcement agencies, AT&T, Kroger and Procter & Gamble, and their programs have included conflict resolution, team building exercises, having the children as honorary captains for home games of the Reds, and as equipment managers for the Bengals. BHGH is also involved with community service projects and has over 1,100 Likes on Facebook, a dramatic increase since Ms. Bowman joined the organization. There are sixteen full time employees at BHGH and Ms. Bowman’s days are busy with board meetings, appointments with donors, checking grades, working on fnancials and (always) fundraising. If it’s not a school day the children (who are known as Scholars) will stop by for a round of hellos, sharing graduations and the “biggest, warmest feeling.” “I wish I could have done this during my entire career,” Ms. Bowman said. “Giving back to the community, enriching the lives of young people, helping them get out of poverty and into college -- it’s powerful and rewarding. Helen Keller said that the most meaningful people she met were those who had hardship, and that’s the bond that these children share. It’s very dynamic because they are brothers and sisters who are not related, but yet are family. I realized later in life that love doesn’t have to come from your direct family – it can come from someone who openly returns your love. Tat’s what moves people from hopelessness 90 slmag.net
to happiness. We have a new motto “Invest, Lift Lives,” and if anybody who reads this is touched by what we do, I would love to speak with them. The more people who are involved, the more we can do for the children in our community.” Ms. Bowman’s memories and stories tumble out with tremendous enthusiasm in the midst of conversation, and some have tangible evidence of the organization’s success. Ms. Bowman opened a large scrapbook, gently removed a poem written (in pencil) to her by Steven that expressed his sentiments, and those of so many children, about BHGH. sl Hug O’ War By Shel Silverstein I will not play at tug o’ war I’d rather play at hug o’ war Where everyone hugs instead of tugs Where everyone giggles and rolls on the rug Where everyone kisses and everyone grins And everyone cuddles and everyone wins I wish I could hug you right now
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Society
Kinky Boots’ Broadway Series, Aronoff, cincinnati.broadway.com Cavalcade of Customs (Cars), Duke Convention Center, www.koiautoparts.com/cavalcade/ I’m Every Woman’ Cincinnati Pops, Music Hall, cincinnatisymphony.org Brahms and Schuman Songs for Clara, Music Hall, cincinnatisymphony.org Daubigny’s Studio Boat: Life on the Seine Exhibit, Taft Museum, taftmuseum.org Cincinnati Boat Show, Duke Convention Center, cincinnatiboatshow.com CCM’s Moveable Feast, Mary Emery Hall College-Conservatory of Music, 6:30PM, ccm.uc.edu/support/events.html 4C Champions for Children Celebration, Netherland Hilton Hotel, 6:30PM, 4cforchildren.org Native Gardens’, Playhouse In The Park, cincyplay.com Pink Martini with The von Trapps’ , Music Hall, 7PM, cincinnatisymphony.org
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Open Your Heart for Stepping Stones, Eddie Merlot’s, 6PM, steppingstonesohio.org If/Then’ Broadway Series, Aronoff, cincinnati.broadway.com The Revolutionists’, Playhouse In The Park, cincyplay.com Good Samaritan’s Gala: My Big Fat Italian Gala, Hyatt Regency, 6:30PM, 513.862.1258 Lindner Center Of Hope Touchdown for Hope, Great American Ballpark Champions Club, 6PM, lindnercenterofhope.org/donate/touchdown-for-hope Cinderella Ballet, Aronoff, cballet.org Hearts for Hope Gala Supporting Boys Hope Girls Hope, Duke Convention Center, 6PM, bhghcincinnati.org Etching Revival from Daubigny to Twachtman, Cincinnati Art Museum, cincinnatiartmuseum.org Cincinnati Auto Expo, Duke Convention Center, cincinnatiautoexpo.com Applachian Spring with The Cincinnati Symphony, Music Hall, 8PM, cincinnatisymphony.org Cincinnati Heart Ball, Duke Convention Center, 6:30PM, 513.842.8863 Daubigny, Monet, Van Gogh: Impressions of Landscape Exhibit, Taft Museum, taftmuseum.org Junior League Fashion Show Luncheon, Hyde Park CC, jlcincinnati.org Hometown Hollywoor for People Working Cooperatively, Netherland Hilton Hotel, 513.351.7921 or www.pwchomerepairs.org
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CINCINNATI SYMPHONY OPEN GALA
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Guests wore their best for the Cincinnati Symphony’s opening Gala this year. Jef Tomas Catering provided a culinary delight before music Director Louis Langrée and internationally renowned pianist Yefm Bronfman thrilled the audience with the orchestral textures and colors of works by Bartók and Beethoven followed by the outrageous grand fnale—Symphonie fantastique by Hector Berlioz.
1) Suzette Percival, Roger LaGreca, Shwetha Manoharan, anoharan, Pavan Parilch 2) Kevin Lawson, Mary Lawson, Jack Rouse, Al A Alea ea Kintner 3) Vito Damiano, Jennifer Damiano, Marvin Kolodzik 4) Marian Pitcairn, Robert Pitcairn, Barbara Kellar, Larry Kellar, Ann Kisling, Barbara Hild, Guy Hild 5) Stephanie Sheikh, Daron Zeno 6) RP Singh MD, Preeti Sinch MD 7) Kara Rybolt, Ryan Rybolt 8) Kevin & Kim Kline 9) Susan Pichler, Joe Pichler, Jennifer Pichler, Josh Pichler
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SAKS ESCADA
Saks put on an exclusive runway show to showcase Escada’s Spring 2016 Fashion Collection. Partnering with the Patty Brisben Foundation, guests were treated to a sneak peek of the most note worthy designs. A percentage of all the sales were donated to the research and cure for women’s sexual health.
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1) LeeAnn Liska, Cynthia Henderson 2) Diane Favors, Kevin Shibley, Patty Brisben, Gabriel Contreras, Julie Boucherit, Phuong Nguten 3) Cyntha Henderson, Patty Brisben, LeeAnn Liska, Barbara Perez 4) Jen Kidder, Tracy Bellman, Kim Sheridan 5) Kelly Dehan, Rick Staudigel 6) Dana Ellsworth, Suzanne Murray, Lauren Reilly, Jordan Diggmueller 7) Luize Zinser, Marina Schneider 8) Debbie Hailey, Keith Ross, Chiquita Evens
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TASTE OF THE WORLD
Newport Aquarium played host for the 12th annual Taste of World charity event. Beneftting the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, Te Party Source generously supported the event donating delicious food and drinks from around the world!
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1) Cindy & Greg White 2) Ben Hardigg, Elizabeth Hardigg, Kate Paynter 3) David & Heidi Fausz 4) Scott & Sandy Kaplay 5) Mike Evans, Carole Evans, Lauren Lillis, Ryan Lillis 6) Gary Allen, Lisa Allen, Megan Gulau, Rorbert Anderson 7) Blake & Jill Slater 8) Nichole Reed, Sherry-Ann Hoilette 9) Guests enjoying the Aquarium 10) Christine Bold, Lyn Sontag, Deb Powell
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KINDERVELT #50 FASHION SHOW Kindervelt #50’s most successful fashion show to date, 285 guests were treated to Saks’ newest Winter and Spring collections. Mercedes-Benz of Cincinnati was the presenting sponsor, which helped to raise over $43,000 to fund the breakthrough care provided through the Cincinnati Children’s Heart Institute Neurodevelopmental Educational Clinic.
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1) Marissa Miller, Jen Stuhlreyer, Kevin Shi Shibley, Jen Byer, Michelle Johnson 2) Amy Fox, Heather Joseph 3) Drema Lach, Pam Gibson 4) Macy Hansen, Amber Sprengard, Jenifer Bahl, Marissa Miller 5) Gina Kaplan, Lynn Carson, Nicolette Conn, Lesley Hern, Jenni Schreiber 6) Kristen Swank, Christiana Stephens, Wanda Lima, Magdalena Kerschner 7) Beth Welsh, Alicia Gerlinger 8) Rose Cristo, Dina Taylor 9) Nancy Nyhart, Macy Hansen
F U RNI T UR E , C ABI NE T RY & A RCH IT E CT U RA L I N T E RI O RS
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DESIGN & CRAFTSMANSHIP
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EISELE GALLERY
Te Eisele Gallery of Fine Art hosted renowned artists John Stobart and John A. Ruthven in a one of a kind exhibition. Te artists’ Limited Edition prints were sold to help beneft the USO (United Services Organization) and wounded veterans at the Walter Reed National Military Medical Center in Washington, D.C.
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1) Suzanne Ruehr, Bill Ruehr 2) Guests enjoying the open house 3) Christine Bailey, John Stobart, Michael Bailey 4) Kelly Fischer, John Stobart, Kathy Wilson, Patrick Wilson 5) Jim Addington, John Ruthven, Rhonda Addington 6) Paul Hornung, John Ruthven
EXPER IENCE HISTORY IN SOPHISTICATED LUXURY
Celebrate the Kentucky Derby in the most luxurious seat in all of sports – The Mansion at Churchill Downs. Savor the elegance of Southern hospitality with breathtaking views of the races, unparalleled private concierge service, and exclusive f ine dining prepared by award-winning chefs.
For exclusive opportunities, contact: Becky Reid becky.reid@kyderby.com • 502.636.4533
Saturday, May 7, 2016 TheMansion.ChurchillDowns.com.
Photography by Tony Bailey
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CARS, CIGARS & STYLE
Blaine’s Fine Men’s Apparel was the host for the frst Cars, Cigars & Style event. While guests saw the latest fashions from Blaine’s, they were also treated to fne hors d’oeuvres provided by Cinque, cigars from Straus Tobacconists, and viewed classic cars from some of the concours participants. Proceeds from the event helped to beneft the Arthritis Foundation.
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1) Brent Walker, Martha Hill 2) Ticia Anderson, Karen Williams 3) Amy Scalia, Pete Scalia, Tony Scalia, Sue Willis 4) Chuck Hellman, Edward Armah, Susan Hellman 5) Bryan Witherspoon, Greg Munafo 6) Tim Tepe, Matt Sathe 7) Mike and Maureen Armstrong 8) Joseph Yoo, Tony Huser
Photography by Tony Bailey
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CINCINNATI FOOD AND WINE CLASSIC
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Te Second annual Cincinnati Food + Wine Classic shined a light on Cincinnati’s culinary talent and chefs from cities throughout the Midwest in a favorsplosion at Washington Park. Two grand tastings, day markets, expert discussions and the very-popular sommelier slam in addition to a Rising Stars Brunch and after party took take place during the three-day event. Te ‘Pork Chopped’ competition was unanimously won by Jag’s Michelle Brown.
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1) Alexis Hardes†y, Stephanie Van Dyke 2) Doug Pentz, Suzanne Baird, Connie Palazzolo 3) Dave Reaman, Barbara Reaman, Michelle Pickett, Jim Pickett 4) Terri Rose, Clint Rose, Teresa Redmond, Jon Pischl 5) Scott & Windy Andersen 6) Joe & Molly Huster 7) Marilyn Harris, Donna Covrett 8) Emily Stovall, Tyler Stovall 9) Patrick & Sara Hipple
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BEER BARON BALL
Celebrating the brewing heritage of Cincinnati, the 3rd annual Beer Baron Ball was hosted by the Horesehoe Casino. Tapping of the “Windisch-Muhlhauser Special Lager� occurred while traditional German Music was heard. Food and beer a plenty were enjoyed by all.
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1) Bruce & Jan Walton 2) Pauletta Hansel, Owen Carmer 3) Pat & Eric Towers 4) Ryan & Natalie Meyer, Kim and Kelly Meyer 5) Dave & Liz Blanchette 6) Greg & Diane Stuens 7) Zach Johnson, Rebecca Crone 8) Kevin & Kim Kline
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CANCERFREE KIDS’ CELEBRATION OF CHAMPIONS
Supporting sponsor Cincinnati Bell helped to pave the way for a record raising $300,000 towards childhood cancer research. Childhood survivors and supporters were highlighted during the fund drive, which sold out the Manor House in Mason.
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1) Troy & Stephanie Werner 2) Mylea Richmond, nd, Jillian Connolly, Christopher Grays, Tanya Streckfuss 3) Cindy & George Pilipouch 4) Elliot Weinstein, Micheal Sturgis, Jennifer Sturgis, Patti Weinstein 5) Macy Kivkland, Jame Cusiclc, Amy Oyster, Darrin Smith, Lori Smith 6) Todd Sloan, Keith Kurz, Lisa Sloan 7) Geof & Tessa Kuzio 8) Matthew Millett, Liz Fry 9) JJ Dalton, Andy Dalton, Terri Rechtin, Peggy Mitchell
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ART IN BLOOM
Te Cincinnati Art Museum was in full bloom this year as it highlighted works from Cincinnati Public Schools Art Collection in its 8th biennial Art in Bloom Celebration. Congratulations to the people’s choice frst place winner Pinkie Lafoon, Mary King, and Helen Heekin for their interpretation of ‘Ann Ford’.
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1) Cheryl Stamm, Janet Schlegel, Tifany Payne Bush 2) Matt Keller, Melissa Kroeger 3) Judy & Steven Stein 4) Richard & Leslie Bedford 5) Rick Maxwell, Kathy Maxwell, Bill Weyan 6) Halle & T Quinn 7) Lynne Gordon 8) Janel Walker, Katie Kermode
Exquisite Design