Sophisticated Living Cincinnati May/June 2017 by Sophisticated Living Magazine

{Cincinnatiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Finest}

slmag.net

May/June 2017 five dollars

Erie Avenue #302 Our Featured2801 Listings 1-block from HP Square. Southern exposure on

REAL ESTATE

3rd floor in the treetops. LEED tax abated. 2902 sq ft. Lighting, sound & mechanized shade systems. Wide-plank oak hardwood floors. Gourmet appliances. European plumbing/lighting. Floor -to-ceiling windows. Superb master suite w/huge dressing rm. 2-car GAR parking. Extraordinary! Hyde Park | $1,149,000

346 Eight Mile Road Once in a generation! This sublime compound with 5 bedrooms/3+1 baths features impeccably maintained/updated historic main-house (circa 1861) & superbly converted barn/guest/poolhouse & pool on a verdant 1.6 acres surrounded by greenbelt. Anderson Township | $595,000 1235 Edwards Road Exquisitely maintained & updated 5 BR/4+1 BA Tudor is one of the finest homes in Hyde Park on nearly an acre of private flat lawns & patio w/ fireplace - the grounds are a wow! Magnificent master suite. Finished walk-out LL. Built-in 2-car GAR. Nothing to do. 2 blocks from HP Square. Hyde Park

9230 Old Indian Hill Road

Indian HIll | $1,330,000

This is the one - wind down the private drive to the auto courtyard and you have arrived at this classic 6 bedroom/4+2 bath Old Indian Hill home featuring intimate living spaces and expansive rooms for entertaining. The house lives almost entirely on one floor including a first floor master suite wing. The remaining bedrooms are on the 2nd floor. The 1st floor features a welcom520 Oregano Drive ing entry with an adjacent bar, a paneled study, living room, dining Builders personal custom 4 bedroom/3+1 bath room, an especially large & bright eat-in gourmet kitchen open to home on private 1.8 acre wooded lot. High end a spectacular great room all of which walk-out to a large brick finishes throughout. Huge eat-in kitchen open to terrace overlooking the pool & private/verdant 3.5 acre grounds. a 2-story great room. Master suite w/vaulted ceil/ The house features 5 fireplaces, a 3-car garage & architectural dressing area/spa bath. Finished LL rec room/5th details galore. Old-world craftsmanship & up-to-date improveBR/full BA. 3 car garage. Park-like outdoor living. ments blend seamlessly. Not too big. Not too small. Just right. 600 Ridge Road Union Township | $539,900

3583 Monteith Avenue

Craftsman bungalow extraordinaire in the heart of Hyde Park. 2 BR/2 BA w/every imaginable amenity. Gourmet kitchen. Grand master suite. Architectural details galore. Heated gunite pool. Heated driveway (you read that right). Great room flow. Screened porch. 2-car garage. Diggable!

ustom built in 2000 on a private/flat 2.24 acres this 4 BR/5+2 BA was meticulously esigned for todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s lifestyles to live almost entirely on 1 floor. 1st fl features: entry yer & 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 (4-cars-plus). 2nd fl features 3 bedrooms all w/ensuite baths a home gym. Covered terrace provides ultimate enjoyment of the spectacular ndscaped yard & pool. Every designer detail has been attended to from multiple replaces w/limestone surrounds, limestone & hardwood floors and much more. Amberley Village | $1,190,000

Hyde Park | $579,500

20 Grandin Lane Superb 5 BR/4+1 BA contemporary on primo/ private drive. Spectacular river+city views. John Senhauser design completely renovated in 2016 by DIGS-only the finest fits/ finishes. Jaw-dropping kitchen/family room. Gunite pool. Wine cellar. 3+car garage. Hyde Park | $2,870,000

9 Garden Place

Bright/white 6 BR/5+1 BA country manor on a sought-after private lane. Renovated from topto-bottom. 1.170 superbly landscaped acres w/ features aplenty. Gunite pool & spa. 3-car garage.

Bob Dorger

David Wellinghoff Mary Dorger

Lori Wellinghoff David Wellinghoff Mariza C. Cohen Lisa Williams Estate Cincinnati Chamber Estate Lori WellinghoffRealPaige Dorger RealMariza Cohen Real Estate Lisa Williams of Commerce Woman Entrepreneur of the Year 2013

Hyde Park | $1,750,000 2324 Madison Road #407 Stunning treetop 2 bed/2 bath corner-unit created by John Harrison of DIGS for himself. Everything wow! Kitchen granite/stainless/ custom cabinetry. Open sunroom w/heated slate floor. Master suite w/walk-in closet+laundry hookup. Full-service bldg: 24/7 doorman/pool/ exercise. HOA includes utilities. Hyde Park | $189,900

Jane Dorger

513.979.2685 Kim Merrell DIGS@comey.com

Marti Schuler Maddie Hartman

513.527.1444 | DW@Comey.com

3524 Edwards Road/Hyde Park Square

DESIGN

CONSTRUCTION

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 a la carte or ANY OR ALL SERVICES, DIGS DOES IT. in any combination make home dreams reality. Find to it. Buy It. Sell It.your Plan It. Design It. Decorate It. Renovate It. Add-On-To-It. Landscape It.You Name It. DIGS Does It. Our services Contact Lori Welllinghoff today. can be engaged “ala carte” or in any combination to make your home dreams reality. Contact Lori Wellinghoff today.

Marti Schuler

Kim Merrell

Robbin Gilligan Brian Gibson

John L. Harrison Annette Askam

Lori Wellinghoff Robbin Gilligan Design Of CounselBrian Gibson Design John L. Harrison Real Estate Real Estate Cincinnati Chamber Of Counsel Design Design of Commerce Woman Entrepreneur of the Year, 2013

Tom Allison

Annette Askam Tom Allison Project Management Construction Project Management Construction

Josh Koch

Alissa Groth

Josh Koch Groth Construction Alissa Controller

Bridget Henson

KatyOffice Diaz Manager Contsruction Controller Office Manager

3524 Edwards Road/Hyde Park Square DIGS-home.com DIGS-home.com 3524 Edwards Road/Hyde Park Square 513.533.DIGS (3447) 513.533.DIGS (3447) DIGS-home.com info@digs-home.com info@digs-home.com 513.533.DIGS (3447) info@digs-home.com facebook.com/DIGSHOME

Walk in with

Walk out with

Try out Sub-Zero and Wolf products in full-scale kitchens.

Talk details with resident

experts. And get a taste of all that your new kitchen can be.

7177 Central Parke Blvd. | Mason, Ohio 45040 Tel. 513-339-0990 (Toll Free 800-426-8589) For dealer listings please visit:

www.TisdelFineAppliances.com

Designed and built by Innerwood & Company, a member of The V Collective. Photography by George Paxton.

K��, C�� A�� I�� 21 Whitney D rive, Milfor d OH 45150

513-760-5349

www.thevcollective.com/sl

E XCITING LUXURY

LIFESTYLE COMMUNITIES! Four Sold! •

MODEL READY MAY 1

Julie K. Back THE PROVEN LEADER

A New Eight Townhome Development in Madeira 7012–7032 Maple Street • Starting at $689,900 Three bedrooms, 2 1/2 baths. Three-car garages. Located in the center of Madeira. Walking distance to shops and cafes, and an easy drive to interstates and downtown.

Selling Quickly! •

MODEL READY JULY 1

513.607.3850 #1 AGENT IN CINCINNATI IN 2015 & 2016! jback@sibcycline.com www.sibcycline.com/jback #1 AGENT AT SIBCY CLINE #2 AGENT IN OHIO CELEBRATING 23 SUCCESSFUL YEARS

MODEL

A 29-lot Single-Level Living Development in Montgomery 10727 Montgomery Road • Starting at the mid $500,000s Custom floor plans. HOA Care. Centrally located in the heart of Montgomery. Easy access to walking trails and parks. Downtown Cincinnati and interstates are a short drive away.

Source: MLS Greater Cincinnati compilation of broker members (01/01/15–03/23/17). Cincinnati Area Board of Realtors® 2015 and 2016 Circle of Excellence Awards

Risk - Reward: What’s your preference? When the owner of this beautiful painting called a local estate company to evaluate his collection, he took a big RISK. Lucky for him, the company overlooked several items of significant value.

Shortly after, the owner contacted Garth’s. Our specialist immediately spotted this highly detailed painting - along with other valuable objects. The collection was consigned to Garth’s where the work was identified, marketed & offered at auction as an important Orientalist Scene by Arthur Von Ferraris (European, 1856-1928). His REWARD for calling the experts?

It sold for $43,750.

Lose the risk and trade on our expertise & world-record results.

Bryan Laughlin 10 years

Amelia Jeffers

Jeff Jeffers

21 years

Terry Beye 34 years

Simon Wills 10 years

Call today for a complimentary evaluation of your antiques, fine art & collectibles to reap your own reward thanks to our years of industry experience.

GARTH’S

selkirk

AUCTIONEERS & APPRAISERS

1830 AUCTIONEERS & APPRAISERS

Columbus • 740.362.4771 sell@garths.com

St. Louis • 314.696.9041 sell@selkirkauctions.com

1954

Curb appeal? Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve got it...and so will you! Our architectural and landscape lighting will grace your home with understated elegance.

It takes craftsmanship and an artistic eye to create the evening outdoor experience you desire. Our lighting design experts know how to turn your exterior living spaces into a nighttime paradise. Let us create a little nighttime magic for you!

Call today to schedule a consultation with our lighting designers - 513.779.1780 www.lighthouse-lights.com

GROWING INCOME

PROTECTING WEALTH

RELIABLE INCOME = RELIABLE OUTCOME

www.bahl-gaynor.com

Through our mission of growing income through dividends, Bahl & Gaynor endeavors to protect and grow our clientsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; hard-earned wealth and help fulfill their life goals.

INDIVIDUALS | INSTITUTIONS | FINANCIAL ADVISORS

{Cincinnati’s Finest}

slmag.net

May/June 2017

five dollars

90 20 26 33 38 42 44 46 48 50 52 60 66 78 90

Lost and Found Amangiri, the storied resort set amidst 600 acres in Utah - at dusk as viewed from a hiking trail on property.

12 slmag.net

98 100 102 104 106 108 110 112

on the cover: Barrett Brothers Join Forces to Beat Cancer Pictured John F. Barrett and Dr. William L. Barrett

Business Profile: Dr. Daniel Miller, PhD Arts Profile: John Ruthven Leaf of Absence Mompreneurs Seeing Red: A Dozen Wines Worth the Hunt Bibliotaph... All Creatures Great and Small Game On Of Note... Console-ation Prizes High-style Horsepower Easy Riders Lost and Found Harry Milton Levy House La Bella Vita rules at Via Vite Philanthropy Profile: Barrett Brothers Join Forces to Beat Cancer Sophisticated Society Tiffany Glass Exhibit Opening Sophisticated Giving Kick Off Reception Saks Jason Wu feature to Support PBF People Working Cooperatively’s ToolBelt Ball Life Learning Center’s annual Gala International Wine Festival’s Charity Auction and Luncheon Cincinnati Children’s Hospital MC Celestial Ball

CINCINNATI | MGBWHOME.COM FEATURING: SUPERNOVA SWIVEL CHAIR, HANDLER PULL-UP TABLE, MARSEILLE RUG

EDITOR - IN - CHIEF Matthew Millett ______________________________________________ ASSOCIATE EDITORS Bridget Williams CONTRIBUTORS Writers Sheree Allgood Patti Bailey Dr. Matthew Bessen Ellana Bessen Scott Harper Amelia Jeffers Austin Pembroke Lisa Stephenson Powell Photographers DeShon Von Able Tony Bailey Mark Byron Tyrone Daniels Andrew Kung Ryan Kurtz David Long Mary Strubbe Michael Wilson Advertising Director Paul Palmer ADVERTISING SALES OFFICE 513.205.3300 ______________________________________________

Are you a tastemaker? Sophisticated Living is now offering franchise opportunities in select US and international markets. To learn more call 502-582-6563 or eric@slmag.net

SOPHISTICATED LIVING MEDIA Eric Williams - CEO Bridget Williams - President Greg Butrum - General Counsel Jason Yann - Art Director 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.

SLMAG.NET

There is no routine breast cancer. Breast cancer is never logical or straightforward or routine. That’s why fighting breast cancer with routine treatment just isn’t enough. At The James, you get the expertise of a multidisciplinary team that specializes not just in cancer but breast cancer. They apply their collective thinking toward discovering the most effective therapies, and delivering them at exactly the right time, for you – which means you can count on comprehensive breast cancer care that’s far beyond routine. To learn more, visit cancer.osu.edu/breastcancer.

From the Editor-In-Chief

I am extremely excited to share with you this excellent May/June issue. This particular issue has been in the works for quite some time, and I am especially proud of our local features on an extraordinary residence in Hyde Park, the celebration of Via Vite’s 10 year anniversary, an outstanding local artist John Ruthven, the amazing work of Dr. Miller and the team at CEI, and of course the work of our very own Barrett family. Cincinnati continues to thrive in more ways than one. Being backed by such strong companies as Kroger, P&G, GE, Fifth/Third Bank, and Western & Southern (among many others), ensures that there is continued talent, both young and old, moving into the city. With such a thriving base and backing of corporate businesses, we see our arts organizations continue to showcase groundbreaking exhibits and theatrical performances, our non-profit sector making long lasting and innovative impacts, and our culinary restaurants grow as we are becoming known as a mecca for young chefs and restaurateurs. One such restaurateur, Cristian Pietoso moved to Cincinnati in 2004 after graduating from the Culinary Institute of Florence, his hometown, and working in restaurants in both Italy and London, before moving to Cincinnati and working with his family at Nicola’s downtown. Via Vite he opened in 2007 and will be celebrating its 10-year anniversary in October. Over that 10-year span the restaurant has grown to include a large and unique outdoor open air Piazza Bar and a recent remodel last fall to update the dining spaces has made this a staple for anyone wanting to enjoy great authentic Italian cuisine in a Milan-esk atmosphere. I was blown away by his newest menu additions, and have enjoyed so many wonderful meals at Cristian’s establishments over the years, I thought it fitting to highlight him in this issue. He recently added a brand new Bruschetta Nizzardo to his menu that is out of this world delicious with fresh crisp vegetables over a perfectly rich tuna confit, and only falls short of the Carnaroli Risotto ‘Di Mare’ which has a wonderful rich tomato flavor paired impeccably with the delightful chunks of seafood. I highly recommend stopping by and trying both of these new dishes and enjoying the atmosphere of fountain square. As with all of our issues, I hope you feel educated, inspired, and excited to read and flip through the publication. We have a large social calendar upcoming, so be sure and support all of the great events, including this year’s RIDE Cincinnati fundraiser.

Matthew Millett

matthew@slmag.net

16 slmag.net

Robert M. Gurney, FAIA, Architect

Explore Marvin’s contemporary windows and doors at marvinwindows.com/contemporary

640 Alexandria Pike Ft. Thomas, KY 41075 859.781.5550

GOLD STANDARD The ethos of Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams (MG+BW) has always been a constant in developing the company identity and brand

The rich history of Reds opening day in Cincinnati is something special. Mitchell Gold, who was in town to celebrate the opening of his new Cincinnati Signature Store in the Kenwood Collection, shared the same sentiment towards his newest “baby” on a sunny March day. Cincinnati is his 32nd store among a group that includes locations in New York, Chicago, Los Angeles and many other large cities in the US, Canada and Mexico. Sophisticated Living sat down with Mr. Gold to learn more about his company’s decision to come to Cincinnati while also gaining perspective on the beliefs and values he’s held dear through the years. “An interesting Sophisticated Living (SL): Why did you chose to open one of your Signature Stores in Cincinnati?

revival is underway in Cincinnati… We wanted to be part of it.”

- Mitchell Gold Mitchell Gold (MG): We wanted to plant our ﬂag in Ohio. Research on the idea of coming to Cincinnati started two years ago. When an opportunity was presented to us by a major real estate developer to get into the most superb regional sub market across from the Kenwood Towne Center we went for it. Another factor we took into consideration was Cincinnati being ranked 9th nationally for retail spending ($67.7 billion). An interesting revival is underway in Cincinnati. The city is experiencing a renaissance and we wanted to be part of it. SL: Cincinnati is your 32nd Signature Store. How would you classify this store in relation to the others in your group?

MG: Our strategy has always been to have a presence in the major cities. We have 4 stores in New York, 2 in Chicago, Beverly Hills, Boston, Dallas, Houston, and other big cities and we’ve had great results and success stories among all of them. Surprisingly, one of our most successful stores is in Nashville. When we evaluated the Cincinnati market we used Nashville as the comparison and Cincinnati became a desirable location for us to expand to. I have to tell you, I think Cincinnati is our most beautiful store. It has all the elements we look for in creating a store: A trophy location, visibility, an aesthetic that speaks to our brand well. The visuals in this store are particularly beautiful and stunning. I love the look of all my stores and I think of them as my babies, so you never want to express favoritism for one over the other. With that, let’s just say that everything came together here perfectly and I am very pleased with the way things turned out. SL: What do you think has set you apart from your competition and brought you the growth and success that your company is enjoying?

MG: We don’t follow trends, we start them or we identify them early. We’re willing to put it out there and that’s worked more often than not. Over the last 4 to 5 years things have really taken off for us. We have solid relationships with highly regarded real estate developers across the country and they present us with unique opportunities for new store locations.

Of course, all this growth wouldn’t be possible without our wonderful employees. We treat them well and they tend to stay with us. Our high retention rate saves us a lot of money on training. Since our people are happy and feel they’re being looked out for and taken care of, they receive and service our customers in the best way possible. We’re all about providing our clients with uncompromising customer service and making their entire shopping experience a pleasant one.

“The visuals in this store are particularly beautiful and stunning.” – Mitchell Gold

SL: What characteristics do you look for in hiring people?

Bob Williams and Mitchell Gold

MG: From an individual store standpoint, the first thing we like to see is that they’re very nice. We also look for people who are smart, reasonable, with good taste, and who like to work as a team. Once we identify people who have these traits, we then attempt to balance our teams with people who have different talents and personalities so we can provide a well-rounded and complete level of service. SL: What are some misconceptions out there about why people buy furniture that you’d like to dispel? MG: One is that people buy new furniture because their old furniture has worn out. That’s not true. Generally, people tend to replace their furniture every 5-7 years to purchase something new and to have a change in look. Another falsehood would be that traditional looking furniture can’t also be comfortable. We’re known as a modern design store that also provides comfort. Even if people’s tastes are traditional we can give them what they’re looking for with a natural feeling of comfort too. SL: With all that you’ve accomplished what does the future hold for you? MG: Most of all I’m determined to be happy. A big part of what makes this all work is creating a company that we can be proud of. Before Bob Williams and I formed our own company, nearly 30 years ago, I worked for a company that offered their workers poor tasting coffee and made a profit on them while doing so. People enjoy their coffee so it was important to me to make sure they could get a good cup of coffee on the job if they were going to work for me. I researched and found a coffee machine that could do that and made it available to our employees at cost. Another aspect of showing we always cared for our employees from the start, was to install air conditioning in a factory setting when we first opened our business, which was unheard of in 1989. Once word got out about it many skilled people from other companies came to work for us because of the better working conditions we offered. Many of them are still with us today. Back when we started the company with 20 employees to this very day, when we have over 1,000 people working for us, our beliefs have always been the same. Bob and I wanted to create and build a company that distinguished ourselves as a place where people could expect admirable and inspirational values and practices from us. That’s always been the ethos of our company. I’m very proud and happy to say we’ve accomplished what we set out to do. It’s a very simple formula to live and work by, take care of your people and they’ll take care of you. Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams Cincinnati Signature Store is located at 5901 Galbraith Road in the Kenwood Collection. Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams Corporate & Factory headquarters are in Taylorsville, North Carolina. www.mgbwhome.com

Business Profile

Dr. Daniel Miller, PhD Cincinnati Eye Institute Written by Lisa Stephenson Powell Hippocrates said that medicine should learn from the past, diagnose the present and foretell the future. Since its founding seventy years ago, Cincinnati Eye Institute (CEI) has been an integral part of historical changes in ophthalmology. From the moment a child is born and their pupils demonstrate a sensitivity to light, to the time when an individual is diagnosed with glaucoma, the milestones of visual development vary from person to person, and from environment to environment. As the recently appointed Chief Medical Officer at CEI, Dr. Daniel Miller, PhD, commented on the organization as it moved from its initial focus of cataract surgeries to today, performing LASIK procedures and corneal transplants. Dr. Miller, who treats macular and surgical retinal diseases, has a dignified and gentle demeanor, reflecting the “care” aspect of his career in healthcare. Dr. Miller grew up in Youngstown and was greatly influenced as a teenager by a television show that featured Dr. Tom Starzel, who completed the first liver transplant at the University of Pittsburgh. “He was a legendary physician,” he said. “I was 20 slmag.net

absolutely mesmerized, fell in love with medicine and knew that I wanted to be a surgeon.” Dr. Miller earned combined degrees (MD and PhD) at Ohio University with a focus on organ transplantation; his doctorate research centered on the rejection of cell organs by the immune system. By chance, during a medical rotation, his career path was clearly defined after he watched retina surgery being done on a diabetic patient. After completing an ophthalmology fellowship at the Bascom Palmer Eye Institute in Miami he joined CEI, one of the largest private ophthalmology groups in the US, eleven years ago. The best practices at CEI reflect all aspects of medicine. “Historically, we have developed cutting edge strategies for our business development and, in general, how CEI interacts with the community,” he continued. “But at the same time we serve our patient population, our referring doctors and our health providers. My new role will address the high level of care that we will bring to a larger number of people, and its coordination among all individuals in the healthcare system.”

slmag.net

CEI was founded by Dr. Morris Osher who gathered a small group of physicians together to administer cataract surgery. When his son, Robert, came to Cincinnati subspecialists of ophthalmology were added, which grew the organization. Today there are four hundred fifty employees at fourteen locations, and sixty doctors who treat over one hundred thousand patients annually. As it has expanded and grown, CEI has addressed changes in healthcare, and will continue to do so as its population ages, giving rise to the incidences of cataracts, glaucoma and retina disease. “We are increasing our regional footprint with larger offices, we hired three doctors in the past year and we expect to add six to ten more during the next three years,” he said. “We put a tremendous amount of effort into the recruiting process and our physicians have trained at the very best institutions.” A major concern of Dr. Miller’s is diabetic eye disease, which is becoming widespread. Its consequences can cause damage to the small blood vessels throughout the body, injure the kidneys and can alter circulation which leads to heart disease and stroke; the retina, in particular, is susceptible to impairment. Diabetes is the leading cause of blindness in the US for people under the age of sixty, and projected numbers estimate that by 2040 there could be eighty million diabetics in the country. The growth of technology during the past twenty years has revolutionized the world and has transformed ophthalmology. “At one time, cataract surgery required a large incision, immobilizing the patient for five days, with sandbags over the eyes,” he said. “With modern techniques, it’s done as an out-patient procedure, under local anesthesia, and vision improves within forty eight hours. Similar advancements have improved glaucoma surgery, retina surgery and corneal surgery.” Another medical (and popular) milestone has been the introduction of LASIK which, in most cases, reshapes the cornea

22 slmag.net

to correct near sightedness. Although Dr. Miller, as a retina surgeon, does not perform the procedure, he admitted with a smile, “At cocktail parties I’m asked more about LASIK than anything else.” CEI is one of the most prominent clinical and research institutions in the US, and their physicians travel around the country and around the world to share information. It is also one of the leading sites of retina clinical trials which advance research on new therapies, surgical methods and treatments. In his role Dr. Miller will address CEI’s national and international reputation while revising its business models. Research studies and clinical trials are ongoing at CEI. Dr. Miller described the process as long, arduous and expensive. Before receiving FDA approval there are several steps that a new drug or treatment must follow. Phase One uses a medication or intervention on patients with advanced vision loss in order to determine its safety perimeters. A Phase Two clinical trial might involve anywhere from ten to two hundred patients. Phase Three encompasses centers throughout the US, involving hundreds or thousands of patients who test the effectiveness of a devise, drug or surgery. “The internet has shifted the old school model of making a medical appointment over the phone. Because our culture is changing, and technology gives such consistent and comprehensive information, one of CEI’s most significant challenges will be to meet the developing needs of our patients in order to improve their lives. We have to approach things in a totally different way. How should office visits be handled? What can we do to provide better care? Does every situation require a face to face interaction? Innovation can be difficult and uncomfortable, but it can also lead to a better outcome.” Dr. Miller mentioned Uber and Lyft – (“It’s so cool,” he said enthusiastically, “that we can have transportation anywhere and anytime”) – as examples of an industry that has been reinvented because of a Smartphone.

slmag.net

Ten years ago CEI widened its charitable presence in the tristate area when The CEI Foundation was established by physicians with the mission to preserve and improve sight. One free clinic has grown to three and they provide services to patients who do not have insurance. Some live in shelters, while others cope with blindness because they can’t afford glasses; the clinics are staffed by volunteer optometrists and ophthalmologists. The Foundation also brings education to the community about preventable eye diseases, early intervention and the importance of screenings. Two annual fundraisers are held for The Foundation; a golf outing, which will take place on June 16 at the Blue Ash Golf Course, and a gala event that will be held later this year. An initiative that has made Dr. Miller most proud is the eye clinic at Oyler High School. “It was shocking to realize how many children were functionally blind because their parents didn’t have the time or ability to get them glasses,” he explained. “In many cases the children were embarrassed to say anything because their family didn’t have the resources to address the problem, and it’s a terrible situation. How are they going to learn if they can’t see the blackboard?” As a mainstay in the area CEI promotes close associations that connect its physicians, patients and neighboring healthcare community. “We are a very important resource,” Dr. Miller said, “and we pride ourselves in working with all of the systems in the city and partnering with them. Patients from around the country, and from around the world, have told me how fortunate Cincinnati is to have CEI.” A typical day for Dr. Miller is banked by morning meetings or surgery, seeing patients in the afternoon and ending the day 24 slmag.net

with new administrative responsibilities; the regime is not without challenges. “Treating someone who is blind in one eye, and who might be going blind in the second eye, brings an equal amount of stress to the doctor and to the patient; it’s not easy to articulate just how devastating that situation can be. But, at the same time,” he added, “there’s a tremendous feeling of satisfaction when someone is helped and it’s important to remember that incredible pressure can lead to incredible victories.” Dr. Miller often receives sincere notes and home-made items (especially around the holidays), as tokens of thanks for the positive impact of medicine. Dr. Miller and his wife were high school sweethearts and have been married for twenty two years. He enjoys sports, likes to golf and fish, but added with a laugh that while his two daughters were growing up, his hobby of choice was carrying their dance bags and chauffeuring them to performance competitions. “My job at CEI is awesome,” Dr. Miller said, “and I think every ophthalmologist would agree that there is something really, truly amazing when a person’s vision is restored. It’s difficult to relate it to other medical practices, because saving someone’s life is significant, of course, but I’ve had people tell me that if they couldn’t see they wouldn’t want to live. And at the end of the day, I feel as if I have had a positive effect on someone’s life which is very gratifying. In the future, I would like CEI to continue to be a leader in ophthalmology but also, to become a national leader of innovative medicine. And if we formulate strategic efforts, and find new ways to care for patients using telemedicine and connecting devices of technology, then those platforms could improve other aspects of medicine by resolving the challenges of healthcare.” sl

Paul Hornung, John Ruthven

Arts Profile

JOHN RUTHVEN Written by Lisa Stephenson Powell

When a creative artist is introduced to the tools of a trade it can spark a lifetime of self-expression. Diane Arbus was handed a camera at the age of eighteen; Fred Astaire started dancing when he was six; and Mozart played a clavier at the age of three before completing a minuet, his first composition, two years later. In a recent episode of The Flash a character reflected, “When I sing, my soul opens up and lets who I am shine through.” For John Ruthven, the internationally acclaimed wildlife artist, the accouterments of his profession – a pencil and paper – brought immediate fulfillment that led to a gratifying career. Mr. Ruthven, a native of Cincinnati, is a nonagenarian with a delectable sense of humor, an encyclopedic recall of information and a vibrant gaze that constantly scopes out backdrops for use in his paintings. He grew up during the depths of the Depression as a free spirited urban child, one of three sons. He and his friends modeled their activities after frontiersmen as they zig-zagged around Walnut Hills, camped out overnight, fished and, for Mr. Ruthven, sketched, on the bank of the Ohio River. It was a Norman Rockwell environment and the neighborhood shielded them from the outside world. At the age of ten, with four dollars in his pocket, he purchased a twelve gauge shot gun for duck hunting, and his early infatuation with the beauty and lure of the outdoors began. 26 slmag.net

While Mr. Ruthven attended Hoffman School and Withrow High School his parents encouraged him to pursue art. “I enrolled in Saturday morning classes at the Art Museum,” he began. “We didn’t have a car so I walked to Peebles Corner and caught the streetcar which took route 49 through Walnut Hills, Eden Park, downtown and the Zoo. At the Museum we were taught how to capture the moment, to express ourselves and to finish a piece in fifteen minutes. Our instructor said, ‘Do it large, and do it fast,’ and I’ve never forgotten that lesson. Even today I love drawing with a pencil and am a very fast sketch artist.” In 1942, as a senior in high school, he was drafted into the Navy and completed a four-year stint that took him around the world three times -- from the Artic to Antarctica, and from New Finland to Cape Town. It also introduced him to the reality of Nazi submarines, destroyer ships, missions that crossed the Equator and the periphery of the Normandy invasion. Art remained his constant companion. “There were one hundred and twenty men on that ship,” he said, “and each of them had families, so I drew portraits from photographs of their wives and children, which built a natural camaraderie among us.” After his discharge Mr. Ruthven returned to Cincinnati. He used the GI Bill to study life drawing at the Art Academy and commercial art at the Central Academy whose founder, Jack Storey, was a highly respected artist.

Screech Owls

slmag.net

This Old House

Eventually Mr. Ruthven married, had two children, opened a studio on Gilbert Avenue and embarked on the starving artist phase of his nascent career. A hopeful sign in the storefront window depicted his enthusiasm: I Paint Everything and Anything. “If you promise to do that, you have to produce,” he explained. “And one day a gentleman came in and asked if I did cartoons which, of course, I had done at Withrow for the school paper.” His guest visitor planned to launch a new company, PlayDoh, and asked Mr. Ruthven to design the now famous logo. For fifteen years thereafter Mr. Ruthven did their artwork while adding additional clients (Kroger, P&G) to his billing roster. Mr. Ruthven is a staunch believer that an artist should determine their dreams, hold onto them, persevere and then produce, produce, produce. And while he worked for corporate entities and simultaneously coped with a sad divorce and the responsibilities of raising a family, the memories of his childhood remained constant until his ultimate goal of being a professional artist became a reality. “In 1960 an open competition was held by the Federal Duck Stamp Act to raise money to preserve the diminishing population of ducks,” he said. “Everybody in the country and around the 28 slmag.net

Wood Ducks

world wanted to design that stamp, and my entry won. It was the turning point of my life and from then on I was known as a wildlife painter, which is what I really wanted to do.” Mr. Ruthven and his second wife, Judy, (“the love of my life”) had a marriage that flourished for forty-three years before her death in 2011. Although she didn’t have a natural affiliation with wildlife she enjoyed fishing, and became a respected historian who was responsible for saving and helping with restoration projects of historic buildings in Cincinnati and Georgetown. Mr. Ruthven prefers painting with watercolors and acrylics, which he described as “faster and extremely forgiving,” instead of oils. As such, he has become a popular guest at fundraisers where he lectures, draws and completes a work of art, which is auctioned at the end of the evening. In contrast, Mr. Ruthven mentioned Charley Harper whose achievements he greatly admires, but who painted quite differently. “Charley was one of a kind, and a dear friend, but his work was very mathematical and geometrical; he used calipers and triangles, and it took him a long time to finish a piece. He didn’t paint in front of an audience very often, but when he did his work always sold well and today remains very popular.”

Traveler

Mr. Ruthven’s life has followed a congenial pattern: an idyllic childhood, international travel and slots of success that fell into place with seeming ease. His work has been acknowledged by four Presidents. President Nixon (for whom he painted Ling-Ling and Hsing-Hsing, the two Chinese pandas that were given as gifts after his 1972 trip to Beijing); President Reagan (who commissioned a work when he announced his run for the presidency); George HW Bush (who displayed one of his paintings at an event that was held at the White House); and George W. Bush (who presented Mr. Ruthven with the National Medal of Honor in 2004). He was the only artist recipient that year and is the only wildlife artist ever to have been awarded the honor. And there have been other notable commissions, both domestic and global. His painting of a monkey eating eagle was given to President Marcos from residents in the Philippines; he designed the new license plate for the state of Ohio, resplendent with a red cardinal; and he created the 2016 Ohio State Christmas Card, which featured birds banked by the original state house in Chillicothe. He is currently working on two paintings of bald eagles; one will hang in the Columbus State House and the other will be acquired by the Speaker of the House for his

private collection. And it’s impossible not to acknowledge Mr. Ruthven’s outdoor presence as the monolithic mural of Martha, the Last Passenger Pigeon, adorns a building downtown on Vine Street. Mr. Ruthven painted the lead bird, which reaches twenty one feet from her beak to her tail, and collaborated with fourteen other artists. “They were so enthusiastic about the project,” he said. “They loved being with me, I loved being with them and it was wonderful to work together.” One of his most exotic encounters occurred when Mr. Ruthven was in the Philippines and was invited to reside at the private retreat of President Marcos. “I stayed a week to see a native bird that is indigenous to that island,” he recalled. “The mound bird belongs to a breed known as Megapodes, which means ‘large foot.’ The bird is quite ugly – drab and dirty looking – but it builds the largest nest in the world, measuring fifteen feet in diameter and five feet tall. And with his big feet, which are impressively nimble, the male shovels up the sand to make a hollow volcano, and brings in vegetation. When the rainy season comes the vegetation rots and creates heat for incubation. And in the meantime,” he laughed, “the female mound bird really has it made. She shows up, has a quick fling and she’s gone!” slmag.net

Passenger Pigeons

Complementing colors and light are interwoven into each of Mr. Ruthven’s paintings, and he has been likened to the nineteenth century artist John James Audubon. “We use the same techniques and imitate the world with our own slant,” he explained. “He preceded me, of course, but he used light in so many different ways. The wings of a bird can be anatomically correct, but if a different shade of illumination is utilized then an artist becomes an innovator. I’ve always been captivated by its use, as were the early Dutch painters.” Mr. Ruthven said that art gives the gift of freedom of expression “in a big way,” while showing subtleties that otherwise might not be apparent. “I did a painting of a Condor, which is the largest vulture in the world,” he said. “There are two major types – the Andean Condor, which is a blue-black and has a glisten to its wings, and the California Condor which is brown-black, with a dull sheen. While doing research I looked at reproductions of early Dutch and English painters, who made their own paints, and I noticed that their blacks had green, burnt ember and crimson added, which prevented the color from looking like a flat, man-made black. And the same is true with white – if a little green or purple is added to it, to obscure it, the color really looks like snow.” Mr. Ruthven begins his day early and completes a four mile walk -- rain or shine, sleet or snow -- and has worn out more than thirty-five pair of LL Bean boots. He paints for approximately six hours a day, is an active member of the Queen City Club for which he created a Passenger Pigeon painting, and is involved with 30 slmag.net

the Judy and John Ruthven Foundation, established in his wife’s memory. The organization celebrates the life and accomplishments of Ulysses S. Grant, who spent the early part of his life in Georgetown, Ohio, where the couple lived. It houses information about local history, the Civil War, President Grant, books from Mr. Ruthven’s private collection and memorabilia from Mrs. Ruthven’s many years of involvement with historic restoration projects. As a young artist Mr. Ruthven was advised by a teacher to keep a file with photographs from varied sources. That file, now over sixty years old, holds multiple images of birds in flight, landing, in the dusk, in the dark, at sunrise, at sunset and with predators; he has collected sticks, stones and images from around the world. Occasionally, if ne needs actual topiary for a painting’s backdrop, he wanders the grounds of Spring Grove Cemetery to cut a sample. The memories of backgrounds stay with him, and he has painted avian subjects surrounded by trees, cities, mountain caps and countrysides from locations in Iceland to those in Jackson Hole, Wyoming. “I just love every aspect of what I do,” Mr. Ruthven said, “and every facet of my work. The people I have met, and the friendships I have made, have been a great influence, and they have elevated my ability to succeed in more ways than you can imagine. And if I have done my job well using composition, color, and tone, then my art will guide the viewer’s eye to observe something new. I have tried to depict, in my own way, the abundance of wildlife in the world. I’d like to leave a small part of myself for posterity with the hope that my work will bring people pleasure, and that it will always be loved, exciting and remembered.” sl

Set Yourself Apart

Aerial view of the Stowe Mountain Lodge with Spruce Peak in the background.

LEAF of ABSENCE

Stowe is the place to go for a breath of fresh air in any season Written by John Robinson With 40% of its 75 square-miles designated as conservation land open to the public for recreation, a thriving 19th century village at the heart of town, dramatic mountain scenery, an emphasis on all things produced locally, a full and diverse yearly calendar of special events well attended by the community’s 5,000 friendly residents as well visitors (close to one million annually), the rural two-stoplight town of Stowe, Vermont embodies the definition of idyllic. Tops among the 50-odd lodging options found at this desirable destination, the 300-room Stowe Mountain Lodge, unveiled by Destination Hotels in 2008 as part of a $400,000,000 expansion of the Stowe Mountain Resort, is the ideal match for travelers looking for an upscale, yet relaxed environment to experience the best the region has to offer in all four seasons. Accommodations range in size from a 450-square-

foot classic room to a two-floor, 2,875-square-foot “Front Four” residence. One thing is for certain: you will never find yourself at a loss for things to do. A sampling of the world-class activities available to guests encompasses an exclusive 18-hole Bob Cuppdesigned mountain golf course that reaches elevations in excess of 1,800 feet, and was ranked as the #1 Golf Resort in the Northern United States in a Conde Nast Readers’ Choice Poll; slope side access to 100 trails that comprise what is arguably the most legendary ski terrain in the East; a state-of-the-art 21,000 squarefoot spa and wellness center; casual and upscale dining options focused on innovative farm-to-table techniques; and, an in-house recreation team leading personalized activities that vary in scope and intensity from a furniture building workshop with local artisans to kayaking and mountain biking.

slmag.net

The lobby of the Stowe Mountain Lodge was designed as a reflection of the local environment.

As one would expect given the picturesque mountain setting, the lodge embodies a familiar alpine aesthetic, but with distinctive and locally inspired touches that underscore a thoughtful property-wide commitment to infusing the guest experience with an immersion in the local culture. The woven Western Red Cedar used for the façade is complemented by stone veneer created from the Champlain Quarries in the Adirondacks. A wealth of windows ensures near constant visual access to the area’s abundant natural beauty. Inside, the color palette is reflective of the leaves on proliferate trees as they morph from season-to-season. Comforting and earthy shades of red, orange, yellow and green serve as a fitting foil

34 slmag.net

to artwork created by some of Vermont’s most renowned artists: glassblower Simon Pearce, furniture maker Charles Shackleton, potter Miranda Thomas, artistic woodworker Parker Nichols, Hubbardton Forge blacksmiths, and several local painters, all of which enjoy a global following. Partnering with the Vermont Fresh Network and Chefs Collaborative, Solstice, the resort’s upscale dining option, as well as the more casual Hourglass Lounge, serves up contemporary American rustic cuisine and craft cocktails that take full advantage of world-renowned local artisan cheeses, fresh produce, heirloom grains and meats. Executive Chef Ronnie Sanchez emphasizes simplicity and seasonal flavors with great aplomb.

Stowe Mountain Lodge lobby

Locally sourced products are a centerpiece of the dining program.

Fall alfresco breakfast

A private fireside breakfast presentation in the outdoor pavilion.

Living room in a studio accomodation

Flatbread pizza and local craft beer from Hourglass Lounge.

slmag.net

36 slmag.net

Healing Lodge in the spa

Following in the same vein as the dining program, the spa utilizes a farm-to-treatment philosophy with products such as their Stowe Cider Scrub, one of several “Live Like a Local” experiences on the spa menu. A unique healing lodge allows for a DIY ritual that includes an herbal steam chamber, Jacuzzi soaking pool, dry sauna, cooling rain shower and soothing body scrubs. A pair of harmony rooms equipped with SO Sound Loungers allow you to “feel” the music you hear throughout your entire body, with the result being an expedient transition into a deep state of relaxation. “The Spa and Wellness Center at Stowe Mountain Lodge has such an advantage in providing a truly authentic spa experience for our guests,” says Maggy Dunphy, Spa Director. “The natural surroundings, the mountains, the vast expanse of activities and outings that are outside our door allow for my team to create very unique and transformative experiences for our guests.” A prime example is the property’s signature yoga class: Mountain Yoga. Held in the woods, each session incorporates Earthing techniques, where participants learn how to be more connected to the Earth through grounding poses. In the winter,

Mountain Yoga involves on-snow yoga classes as a warmup to and après skiing on the ski hill. As the centerpiece of Stowe Mountain Resort, the Stowe Mountain Lodge is surrounded by an alpine village that has been painstakingly planned and developed over the course of 16 years. High-end boutiques and restaurants, 34 fractionally-owned condominiums, the Stowe Mountain Club and 18 luxurious village townhomes are literally steps from the resort and alpine amenities. Also nearby, the sprawling Spruce Peak Adventure Center serves as the home base for year-round activities such as indoor rock climbing, the children’s ski school, kid’s camp and zip line tours, among others. Though it is certainly tempting to pack the itinerary with as many activities as possible, in such a pristine setting it can be as wholly satisfying to take a moment to simply relax on the balcony of your room, local cider in hand, taking in the fresh air and admiring nature’s handiwork. Rooms at Stowe Mountain Lodge from $240/night. For more information or reservations visit destinationhotels.com/stowe-mountain-lodge. sl

slmag.net

MOMPRENEURS In honor of Motherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Day, we asked acclaimed international jewelry designers Jade Jagger and Wendy Yue to reflect on their experiences as contemporary working mothers. Written by Caylee Matthews

38 slmag.net

WENDY YUE A native of Hong Kong who moved to Vienna at an early age to study language and culture, Wendy Yue spent a great deal of time traveling throughout Europe and developing a keen interest in wildlife and nature. In lieu of photographs or other souvenirs to commemorate her sojourns, she created color sketches of landscapes and animals she encountered. These vivid mementos would serve as a preview to the colorful creations she would later craft in precious gems and metals when she formed her own jewelry atelier in 1998, which has gone on to firmly establish itself as a benchmark in Hong Kong’s fine jewelry industry. Wendy Yue Haute Joaillerie produces fantastical pieces lauded for their intricate workmanship and story-telling narratives. Prized by champions of chutzpah, a piece by Wendy Yue is designed for those with a keen eye for the bold and the beautiful (wendyyue.com). SL: How has having children changed your life and business? WY: Having children has really changed my life in previously unimaginable ways. I began to pace the absurdly hectic lifestyle I had. Up until the time I had my first child, designing was the most important aspect in my life. Since then, my children always come first–you learn to be selfless. My patience grew in general, which is something my staff pointed out to me, and which probably helps the business (laughs). Nowadays, when I meet people, they are often shocked that I have four children. They always ask: "How do you do it? How do you run your business?" And this is before they find out I actually have multiple ventures apart from jewelry. I always think to myself that they don't even know how much more I would do before I had my children. My children inspire me to keep going, but now at a healthy and peaceful pace. SL: What do your children think of you working in the jewelry industry? WY: (Laughs) They tend to believe that I'm famous (which I don't think so), because of what they see in magazines and social media. The older ones seem to regularly show off my Instagram page to friends. My younger twins are already so in love with jewelry, trying on whatever pieces I have lying around when I'm designing from home. The real issue arises when they ask you why you can't buy them this and that when your ring is worth that much–speechless! Kids nowadays really know how to work you up!

Above, Wendy Yue. Spread, from left: 18k white gold ring with garnet, amethyst, fancy diamond, orange and pink sapphire, amethyst and ruby ($13,535). Wendy Yue 18k white gold necklace with tsavorite, white and black diamond, ruby and pink and white sapphire ($76,451). 18k white gold bangle with white diamond, yellow and pink sapphire, tsavorite, tanzanite and opal ($40,606). 18k white gold earrings with orange sapphire, Champagne diamond, tsavorite and yellow and fancy diamond ($33,700).

SL: What would be the perfect Mother's Day gift from your collection, and why? WY: Jewelry is such a personal and emotional gift, so I don't want to suggest a specific design. I would choose something that is wearable and comfortable (some prefer rings, some prefer earrings, etc.), and a theme that has a special connection to your mother. From my collection, I would certainly choose carved semi-precious stones, as it is really one of my signatures. Happy Mother's Day, it is truly a blessing to be a mother and have a mother!

slmag.net

40 slmag.net

JADE JAGGER Born in Paris in 1971 to famous parents who famously divorced in 1978, Jade Jezebel Jagger is the only child of Bianca and Mick Jagger. She spent her formative years in jet-setting style, shuttling between homes in the south of France, New York City, Los Angeles and London, and counted Andy Warhol among her babysitters (supposedly much to her father’s dismay). When asked about the time he spent with Jade at “The Factory”, his Manhattan studio, Warhol commented, “I love Mick and Bianca, but Jade’s more my speed. I taught her how to color and she showed me how to play Monopoly. She was four and I was forty-four.” Since her 20s Jade has dabbled in numerous creative disciplines, including painting, fashion and interior design. Her foray into jewelry design began in 1997, and her bohemian, Eastern-influenced pieces quickly garnered the attention of both celebrities and fashion trendsetters. In 2001 she was named Creative Director for the venerable London-based fine jewelry house Garrard, who sought to infuse their brand with a touch of her Boho-chic verve. The first freestanding store for Jade’s eponymous line opened in November 2009 on West London’s All Saints Road. Now focused solely on jewelry design, she draws inspiration for her pieces from her dual home bases of India and the UK (jadejagger.co.uk). SL: How has having children changed your life and business? JJ: I had my girls when I was 20, so most of my creative life was in unison with motherhood. I often reflect that this has allowed me to have a strong ability to balance working life with parenthood. Of course, I also had the influence of my family, my husband and my new baby on my creativity.

Above, Jade Jagger. Spread, from left: NeverEnding hoop earrings in Chrysoprase with enamel detail ($3,327). NeverEnding bracelet with ruby and diamond pavé in 18k gold ($7,973). Quintessence Earth ring with blue sapphire and white diamond in black rhodium sterling silver ($3,463). Aquamarine Air necklace with black rhodium sterling silver and white diamonds ($4,350). Quintessence Labradorite Fifth Dimension earrings ($4,750).

SL: What do your children think of you working in the jewelry industry? JJ: They have seen first-hand how hard it is to be a small business, but also of the independence and pleasure it has brought me. We spent a lot of our lives sourcing, carving and setting stones in Jaipur, India, which always has a romantic feel, along with the days of being the creative director of Asprey and Garrard, where we were travelling all the time and experiencing so many new places. SL: What would be the perfect Mother's Day gift from your collection, and why? JJ: The NeverEnding Collection…with its hand-carved stones, it has a timeless quality and suits all women. I love the color and modernity of the collection, which soon becomes an heirloom to the family. sl

slmag.net

Seeing Red: A Dozen Wines Worth the Hunt

Riedel Veritas Cabernet Sauvignon/Merlot wineglass ($34.50/each; riedelusa.com)

Looking back at the thousands of red wines I have tried, the idea occurred to me that it would be fun to revisit a dozen of them through my tasting notes. In the following paragraphs, I have outlined a broad range of wine styles and regions, all selected at random, as some obvious favorites such as Barolo, Châteauneufdu-Pape, etc. are missing. Trying to find these wines will be a challenging but worthwhile exercise for any oenophile. With the likeliness that you won’t find the listed vintage, try the current vintage instead for a fantastic tasting. ITALY Taurasi Terredora Di Paolo 2008 (Campania) The number-one red grape in Campania is Aglianico; it is planted throughout Southern Italy and reaches its zenith in Taurasi. Taurasi is a wine of great body, black fruits, structure and ageability, as it can be austere in its youth. Taurasi must be aged three years¬, one of which must be done on wood. To be labeled Riserva, the wine is required to be aged an additional year, with half of the additional time spent on wood. A couple of the best producers are Mastroberardino and Terredora Di Paolo; both wineries are owned by members of the Mastroberadino family. Brunello Di Montalcino Pogggio Alle Mura 2003 (Tuscany) Castello Banfi was founded in 1978 by the Mariani Family, which produces a wide range of delicious Tuscan wines. The color is medium-dark red. The nose is intensely aromatic with violets and baking spices. It is rich and full-bodied in the palate, with the flavors of oak, spice, mocha, black fruits and integrated tannins. This is a wine that will age. Made from 100 percent

42 slmag.net

Written by Scott Harper, Master Sommelier

Riedel Veritas New World Pinot Noir wineglass ($34.50/each; riedelusa.com)

Sangiovese, which is called Brunello in Montalcino. Delicious with the Tuscan specialty of Bistecca Fiorentina. Chianti Classico Riserva Villa Cerna 2005 (Tuscany) Chianti Classico Riserva Villa Cerna 2001 (Tuscany) Chianti Classico Riserva Villa Cerna 1988 magnum (Tuscany) These three examples provide an interesting comparison on how quality Chianti/Sangiovese ages. The 2005 was the fullest-bodied; it possesses medium tannins and mixed berry fruits, light earth and oak. In comparison, the 2001 has more black fruits, lower tannins, a more floral nose, but still a medium-body. The 1988 was terrifically balanced and mature, with flavors of dried flowers, spice, leather and dried fruit; it is balanced and still drinking magnificently. Amarone della Valpolicella Classico Luigi Righetti “Capitel de’ Roari” 2006 (Veneto) Fourth-generation winemaker Gian Maria Righetti carries on the tradition of his family-run estate, established in 1909. In local dialect Capitel de’ Roari means “many oaks,” which is a reflection of the Righetti’s knowledge of their land. Ripe red cherry, baked strawberry, minerals, light oak, spice, almond and mocha all come together in this velvety textured, full-bodied wine. USA Inglenook Cabernet Sauvignon 1941 (Napa Valley, California) This is on my list as one of the best wines I have ever had. I tasted this classic Napa Valley Cabernet at the Aspen Food and Wine Classic in 1991; leading wine critic Robert Parker was the moderator, and it was a most memorable occasion. At the time

Riedel Veritas Old World Pinot Noir wineglass ($34.50/ each; riedelusa.com)

Riedel Veritas Old World Syrah wineglass ($69/pair; riedelusa.net) Riedel Veritas New World Shiraz wineglass ($69/pair; riedelusa.com)

of the tasting, the auction value for this taste of Napa Valley history was $1,800/bottle. Intense nose of currant and anise, it is amazingly long, rich and concentrated. A seductive bouquet of caramelized fruits remains in the glass even after the wine was gone, ethereal and multidimensional. Lost Mountain RdV 2010 (Virginia) 64 percent Cabernet Sauvignon and 36 percent Merlot. Posh, dry and full-bodied, with more tannic structure than RdV’s Rendezvous. The color is opaque purple. It is a pervasively flavored wine that exudes currant, cassis, espresso, sweet tobacco, chocolate and baking spices, all in a powerful, yet velvety structure. The more age-worthy of the two RdV wines. Drink now, but I hypothesize it will improve with five or more years in the bottle. Pair with a well-marbled grilled steak or roasted rack of lamb. SPAIN Rioja Marques Del Puerto Gran Reserva 1994 (Rioja) The color speaks of a mature wine; it has a medium-dark red color with a rim that is orange-amber red. Flavors of vanilla, cocoa, strawberry, raspberry liqueur, saddle leather, dried violets and copious oak are enveloped by a very soft texture. It is medium-fullbodied, dry and complex. Try with pan-seared beef filet. FRANCE Petrus 2000 (Pomerol) On my list as one of the best young wines I have ever tasted. I tried a barrel sample of Petrus on a 2002 trip to France. Market value on release was $2,000/bottle. Made from about 95 percent Merlot

with the balance of Cabernet Franc, this mythical winery annually produces 4,000 cases of what is generally considered to be the greatest Merlot in the world. Chambertin-Clos de Bèze Gérard Raphet 2005 (Burgundy) This Grand Cru Burgundy was one of the finest examples from the 2005 vintage, and Raphet is known among the cognoscenti as one of the best producers of Chambertin-Clos de Bèze. A lot of 14 bottles fetched $2,060 at a 2015 Christie’s auction of fine and rare wines in Hong Kong. CHILE Vina Seña 2006 (Aconcagua Valley) Affectionately nicknamed Opus 2, this wine resulted from a partnership between the Chilean winery Vina Errázuriz and Robert Mondavi. When the mega conglomerate Constellation bought Mondavi, the Chadwick family, proprietors of Errázuriz, bought the Mondavi interest and now own 100 percent of this iconic wine. Seña is Spanish for “personal signature,” and is the individual venture of Eduardo Chadwick. Made in the Aconcagua Valley, located north of Santiago, on a beautiful hillside vineyard, Seña stands testament to Chile’s ability to make world-class wines. The wine is a Bordeaux-style blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Petit Verdot, Carmenère and Cabernet Franc. Full-bodied and polished with the flavor of blackberry, cherry, oak, mocha and allspice. Seña drinks well now and has the ability to age for a decade. sl A Certified Wine Educator, Harper is one of 147 professionals in North America and 230 worldwide who have earned the title Master Sommelier.

slmag.net

Bibliotaph... All Creatures Great and Small

Compiled by Victoria Chase

Taxidermist Jeroen Lemaire, who was first discovered in 2014 by the Musee des Arts Decoratifs in Paris, authored this in-depth look at the "weird and wonderful" world of fine art taxidermy, from its history, to noted collectors and their contemporary cabinets of curiosity. Jeroen Lemaire - Wonders are Collectible: Taxidermy: Tranquil Beauty - Hardcover, 160 pages, Lannoo Publishers (lannoo.be).

In this coffee table book, Russian zoologist Vladimir Dinets uses stunning photography and concise text to explore myriad behavioral patterns of wild animals. Vladimir Dinets - Wildlife Spectacles: Mass Migrations, Mating Rituals, and Other Fascinating Animal Behaviors - Hardcover, 320 pages, Timber Press (timberpress.com).

Using whimsical watercolor illustrations alongside funny and scientifically accurate text, artist Iris Gottlieb explores symbiotic relationships of 35 animal pairings, from oddball to adorable. Iris Gottlieb Natural Attraction: A Field Guide to Friends, Frenemies, and Other Symbiotic Animal Relationships - Hardcover, 144 pages, Sasquatch Books (sasquatchbooks.com).

Curated compilations of everything from insects to reptiles, carefully arranged in aesthetically pleasing patterns, comprise this handsome coffee table book, a must for lovers of nature, art and design. Christopher Marley - Biophilia - Hardcover, 288 pages, Abrams Books (abramsbooks.com).

44 slmag.net

bib 'li' o 'taph, [bib-lee-uhtaf, -tahf ]: a person who caches or hoards books

With as many of half of the world's plant and animals facing the threat of extinction, photographer Joel Sartre made it his mission to bring attention to the plight of these creatures by visually documenting the world's biodiversity. With support from the National Geographic Society, to date he has surpassed the halfway point in his goal to photograph 12,000 species. This book showcases a portion of his portraits, from tiny insects to massive mammals. Joel Sartre - The Photo Ark: One Man's Quest to Document the World's Animals - Hardcover, 400 pages, National Geographic (nationalgeographic.com).

While the obvious difference in size depicted in photographer Andy Seliverstoff's images of children and their XXL dogs is certainly attention grabbing, it's the playful interaction and endearing connection between the odd couplings that makes them truly memorable. Andy Seliverstoff Little Kids and Their Big Dogs - Hardcover, 132 pages Revodana Publishing (revodanapublishing.com). This books pairs striking imagery by award-winning wildlife photographer Karl Ammann with engaging prose by Dale Peterson to examine the politics of ivory, new research, natural history and the conservation status of African elephants. Karl Ammann (photographer) and Dale Peterson (author) Elephant Reflections - Hardcover, 288 pages, University of California Press (ucpress.edu). Nature photography elevated to a high art form, the images of internationally award-winning photographer Mark Laita capture the splendor and otherworldliness of the ocean's inhabitants. Mark Laita - Sea - Hardcover, 200 pages, Abrams Books (abramsbooks.com).

slmag.net

The Living Room at the W Las Vegas is a hub of activity day and night.

GAME ON W Las Vegas

Written by Bridget Williams Should Marie Antoinette, famously infamous for spending heavily on fashion, art, gambling and other luxuries, find herself reincarnated in the current era, she would undoubtedly be drawn to the decadence of Las Vegas. And if such a scenario should ever come to fruition, when the time came for mademoiselle’s coiffed head to hit the pillow, she would feel right at home in a sweet suite at the new W Las Vegas, which offers the perks of a boutique experience (intimacy, uniqueness and elevated personalized service), with immediate access to amenities inherent in a much larger property. Although the W Las Vegas opened in December 2016, Sophisticated Living was privy to the property’s official grand opening celebration this past March, a full weekend of events intended to showcase the highlights of the 289-room property. The unique hotel-within-a-hotel experience is the result of a $415 million transformation of the former suite tower of SLS Las Vegas, which is positioned on the emerging northern end of the Las Vegas strip. “If ever two iconic brands were made for each other, it’s Las Vegas and W,” remarked Anthony Ingham, W Hotel’s Global Brand Leader. Born from the bold attitude and 24/7 culture of New York City when it was founded nearly two decades ago, W’s corporate ethos of Detox, Retox, Repeat, as well as an emphasis on music, fashion and design is perfectly instep with Vegas’ bacchanalia. 46 slmag.net

Designed to be a reflection of the city in which it’s located, each W hotel does share a few commonalities that are also found at the Las Vegas property, namely the absence of a traditional hotel lobby and the presence of a “Living Room,” which serves as a comfortable central hub of activity at all hours, accompanied by a sexy, pulsating soundtrack, custom mixed for the property. At W Las Vegas, edgy and eclectic artwork in public spaces pays homage to the property’s mid-century gambling heritage (the tower was once part of The Sahara) as well its desert setting, by incorporating touches of whimsy and a little devil may care attitude. According to Mark Eberwein, General Manager of W Las Vegas, the typical W patron is someone who works hard so that they can play hard. “It is people who are fully engaged in life and like to push the limits,” he said. Ingham underscored this sentiment by singling out FIT, the expansive 24-hour fitness center on the hotel’s second floor, which is part of the AWAY Spa facility. “For our guests, exercise is not something just to get through, it’s a social event and part of the fuel for making the most of life,” he explained. Loyal W brand fans have already taken note of the Las Vegas opening, well exceeding projections for repeat W guests.

Sayers Club at SLS

Bazaar Meat by José Andrés

A neon W in the roundabout of the “secret” courtyard entrance, shielded from street view (and still a puzzle to some Uber and taxi drivers due to its newness), whispers that you’ve “arrived”. Behind the welcome desk, stacks of poker chips are arranged in a slotted wood wall to resemble the bars of an equalizer. Each guest is given a token to have their fortune read by Zoltar–a James Brown-esque version of the familiar sage made famous in the movie Big – who holds court in a nook adjacent to the Living Room (thankfully his prophecy of my needing assistance in making bail didn’t come to fruition). With a massive bar inspired by roulette wheels and plenty of cozy seating areas, the Living Room exhibits a distinctively mod vibe, with just enough Vegas flash and no crass. Leading the charge in the space’s transition from day to night is a neon art “desert garden” by artist Keith Lemley behind the bar. Guest accommodations are wonderfully witty, with the most memorable design element being walls clad in a contemporary reinterpretation of tapestries. Affixed to the wall via grommets, a series of screen-printed canvases emulate the ornate wood paneling found throughout Versailles and keep the largely monochromatic space from feeling too stark. Guest room amenities are what one would expect from a hotel of its

Welcome Desk at W Las Vegas

Fabulous King guest room at W Las Vegas

caliber: plush pillow top mattresses, goose-down duvets, high tech electronics and Bliss toiletries. For the ultimate high roller experience, check into the sexy 2,382 square-foot E-WOW suite, designed by Lenny Kravitz. Sitting atop more than 15,000 square-feet of flexible meeting and event space spread across three floors is the WET Deck and Bar, an open-air pool only available to W guests. While the W Las Vegas offers the intimacy of a boutique hotel, guests are just steps away from the vast array of entertainment, gaming and dining options at the SLS. Highlights include Bazaar Meat by José Andrés, an avant-garde interpretation of a high-end Vegas steakhouse and a compulsory pilgrimage for carnivores; the specialty cocktails, unique rolls, and spectacular sushi and sashimi platters at Katsuya; the contemporary Mediterranean cuisine of chef Danny Elmaleh at Cleo; casual dining options at Unami Burger and 800 Degrees Neapolitan Pizza; the industrial chic live music venue Sayers Club; and, the 60,000 square-foot SLS Las Vegas Casino. “After nearly two decades of anticipation, W Las Vegas will show guests a different side of the strip, offering an unexpected and irreverent twist on the typical Sin City experience,” said Ingham. For more information on W Las Vegas, visit WLasVegas.com. sl slmag.net

Of Note... Console-ation Prizes

Compiled by Colin Dennis

1) Hable for Hickory Chair Agnes Console in River Rock finish with printed leather drawer fronts and arced metal legs in a gilded brass finish (price upon request; hickorychair. com). 2) Ornate reclaimed pine console table from Sweet Pea & Willow ($1600; sweetpeaandwillow.com). 3) The Edwardian bamboo console from Theodore Alexander crafted from mahogany with a cross banded top (price upon request; theodorealexander.com). 4) Important George III painted and partial gilt demilune console table in the manner of Robert Adam, having painted decoration attributed to Pergolesi and Cipriani. From Hyde Park Antiques, LTD ($220,000; 1stdibs.com). 5) Audrey console in turquoise faux shagreen from Made Goods (price upon request; madegoods.com).

48 slmag.net

7 6

6) Camel bone and resin inlay console table in a classic chevron pattern from Fenton & Fenton ($1800; fentonandfenton.com.au). 7) Arrow 68" console table in cast iron with a black granite top from Arhaus ($1,199; arhaus.com). 8) MOGG Tokyo console table from Go modern Furniture features hanging compartments made from galvanized metal sheets with a matte yellow finish ($2898; gomodern.co.uk). 9) The Claridge Deco mirrored console table from Artisani ($900; artisani.com). 10) ARDARA console table from Brabbu Design Forces in gold leaf with a gloss varnish (price upon request; brabbu.com). 11) The Black & Blue cocktail/console table by designer Evangelos Vasileiou for Ligne Roset mixes black lacquered steel with three shelves in blue-tinted clear glass ($885; ligne-roset.com).

slmag.net

HIGH-STYLE HORSEPOWER The 75th Goodwood Members’ Meeting Written by Andre James Staged at the Motor Circuit on the 12,000-acre Goodwood estate in rural West Sussex in the United Kingdom, home of the Dukes of Richmond for more than 300 years, the origins of the annual Members' Meeting go back to 1948, when the 9th Duke of Richmond opened the circuit and held the first in a series of meetings for members of the British Automobile Racing Club. After 71 meetings, the event went on hiatus in 1966; demand from members of the Goodwood Road Racing Club prompted Lord March to revive the event in 2014, with the intent of recreating the atmosphere and camaraderie from the golden era of motor racing. Held this past March, the 75th Goodwood Members’ Meeting featured a total of 12 races spread out over two days. Cars that graced the track cumulatively represented more than a century of motorsport history. The event kicked off with a Governor’s Ball hosted by Lord March, during which a dozen noisy two-stroke 250 and 350cc Grand Prix motorcycles tore through the halls of Goodwood House, much to the delight of partygoers. 50 slmag.net

Some of the most iconic periods in motorsport history were celebrated with high-speed demonstration runs: threeliter Sport Prototypes, Italian exotics from Ferrari and Alfa Romeo; and V12 Matras and Cosworth DFV-engined Lolas. Legends of GT1 featured entrants from Porsche, Mercedes, Jaguar, McLaren and more. Other races included the Derek Bell Cup for one-liter Formula Three cars; the ever-popular Gerry Marshall Trophy for 1970-82 saloon cars; a two driver evening race that paired current stars with past masters; and the singledriver, reverse-grid sprint race. Part motorsport mecca, part country fair, the 2017 Members’ Meeting sold out in record time, attributable not only to the quality of the racing, but also the family friendly atmosphere boasting plenty of off-track action, from a Bonhams’ auction to a wide variety of available food and entertainment options. The 2018 Members’ Meeting is scheduled for March 17-18. For more information visit goodwood.com.. sl

slmag.net

easy

52 slmag.net

riders Compiled by Andre James

The lightest special urban bike in the world (less than 11 pounds), manufacture of the PG Bugatti Bikeâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;developed by PG, designed by Bugatti and manufactured in Germanyâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;will be limited to just 667 examples worldwide. Constructed predominantly of carbon fiber, should you be one of the lucky few to have a Chiron in your garage, a special customization program can match the finish of your bike to your Bugatti (price upon request; pg.de).

slmag.net

The G2 P51 Combat Fighter from Confederate is built entirely from aerospace billet aluminum. The proprietary monocoque is the stiffest, most fatigueresistant and lightest chassis capable of containing the greatest amount of torque as a percentage of weight in its class. The V-twim, four-stroke engine boasts a top speed of more than 160mph (From $125,000; confederate.com).

54 slmag.net

In 2014, watchmaker Bell & Ross commissioned Shaw Harley-Davidson to create two matching concept bikes (both sold). The resulting B-Rocket boasted a powerful look that married the extreme modernity of the 1960s with the very first American jet aircraft. A pair of Bell & Ross watches, the BR 03 and the BR 01, were released in conjunction with the unveiling of the B-Rocket (bellross.com).

slmag.net

The Tunnel mountain bike from Stinner is shown as a custom build for John Watson, owner of the blog The Radavist (from $2,299 for the steel frame only; stinnerframeworks.com).

Inspired by classic cafe racer-style motorcycles, engineer Indrek Narusk designed his VIKS urban bicycle with a unique shape: two identical tubes joined alongside each other and meeting at a single head tube, seat tube, and bottom bracket. Built in Estonia, each hand-crafted, made-to-measure bike comes equipped with either a fixed gear or a coaster hub brake for standard factory setup (Price upon request; viks.cc).

56 slmag.net

A high performance road bike from Trek, the Domane SLR 8 features front and adjustable rear IsoSpeed decouplers to smooth rough roads, 600 Series OCLV carbon frame and additional tire clearance for on- and off-road versatility ($6,499; trekbikes.com).

The women's Runwell bicycle from Shinola was inspired by the French style of Porter bicycles, first used by newspaper couriers in Paris. Shimano Alfine 11-speed internal hub and disc brakes with lugged steel frame and fork ($2,950; shinola.com).

slmag.net

A premium touring motorcycle from Indian Motorcycle, the Roadmaster Classic blends iconic style such as genuine leather saddlebags with modern touring amenities, such as a 7-inch touchscreen Ride Command infotainment system (From $27,999; indianmotorcycle.com).

58 slmag.net

2017 Honda Montesa Cota 300RR is the production model most similar to the prototypes used by factory Honda Montesa riders. For 2017, the 300RR is equipped with ECU mapping that improves engine response in the low and middle rpm ranges that are especially important for trials motorcycles. The new three-ring piston (up from two), helps prevent leakage and improves durability. An updated chassis has suppler settings for the Tech fork, similar to those used by factory riders. The muffler has been made more robust with reinforced mounts, and the rear-brake pedal has been shortened to avoid impacts and allow the rider more freedom of movement ($9,999; powersports.honda.com).

Lotus Motorcycles was established to design and built the first motorcycle of the iconic car manufacturer. First revealed in 2014 following two years of R&D, the Lotus C-01 mates a V-twin engine with a distinctive body designed by Daniel Simon that integrates carbon fiber, titanium and aerospace quality steel ($137,000; lotus-motorcycles.com).

slmag.net

Amangiri at dusk as viewed from a hiking trail on property.

LOST&FOUND Seeking serenity at Amangiri Written by Bridget Williams

Alone on a hiking trail deep at the heart of the high desert on the Colorado Plateau in mid-January, I found myself fighting back tears; the irony of my uncontrollable waterworks in this arid environment not escaping me. The salty droplets stung my cheeks as I wiped them away with gloved fingers that were nearly numb from the frigid temperature. I wasn’t even sure if I was still on the trail at this point; there wasn’t another living soul as far as the eye could see; and (gasp), I’d ventured into an area without cell service. For me, being awake to greet the dawn of a new day is already a special time, and as the morning sun continued to rise, this fleeting moment of magic felt more bewitching, as I was privy to some tête–à–tête between sunlight and shadow that animated 60 slmag.net

the ancient sandstone rock formations. Even though it was the third morning I’d been exceptionally privileged to witness this spectacle, the surreal beauty of the scene continued to trigger an involuntary welling of my eyes in wonderment. Sitting in silence until I could no longer handle the chill, I located the familiar cairns that are used to mark the trail, added one teeny pebble on top to commemorate the occasion, and made a beeline for Amangiri, the storied resort set amidst 600 acres in Canyon Point, Utah. Although it feels quite remote, the property is a 20-minute drive from the Glen Canyon Dam at the end of popular Lake Powell. The resort provides complimentary transfers to guests who arrive via Page Municipal Airport, just 25-minutes away.

Resort swimming pool at dusk

Aman Spa entrance

slmag.net

Desert Lounge at dusk

Desert View Suite

Rather than try to upstage Mother Nature’s handiwork, the developers sought to have the 34-room property virtually disappear into the base of the mesa where it is artfully sited. Turning off of a two-lane highway that seems to stretch into infinity, the resort begins to slowly reveal itself like a mirage as you travel up, down and around spectacular rock formations. In any other setting the arrow-straight lines of the resort’s architecture would be perceived as severe, but here, with walls erected of concrete that has been mixed with local aggregate to complement the variegated hues of the metamorphic sandstone all around, architecture becomes art. Manmade features have been carefully orchestrated to mimic and magnify the landscape. A large rock outcropping, the terminus of which reminded me of an oversized cartoon nose in profile, served as the starting point for the layout of the physical structures of the property, including the resort pool, which follows the rock’s natural contours. Moving outward from the pool is Amangiri’s “living room,” a multiuse space with seating areas oriented to four large fireplaces, floor-to-ceiling windows, an open kitchen with wood-fired oven and chef ’s counter, a library, and a gallery-style gift shop with jewelry, art and objects that highlight local artisans. The spa, guest rooms and suites extend like open arms from

62 slmag.net

Entrance Lounge

Aman Spa step pool

this central gathering point. Interspersed along the way, and communicated utilizing changes in elevation and direction, are strategic openings intended to frame a view, along with water features that imbue the concrete with a time-worn patina and break the desert’s silence. Guest accommodations have been conceived in a similar vein of refined austerity. The muted and monochromatic color scheme derived from the surrounding landscape creates a Zenlike atmosphere; utilitarian furnishings were custom-designed to meld into the physical space. Simple pegs and a timber beam flush-mounted on the concrete wall near the entry to my 1,000-square-foot Desert View Suite held a thoughtful array of amenities to use for my daily sojourns: a walking stick, sunhat, natural fiber bag and a flashlight. French doors opened to a terrace with a gas fireplace integrated into bench seating that served as the only barrier between me and the expanse beyond; the breadth seemed even more profound at 4am, when I would seek repose there to admire a night sky with more brilliance than any assemblage of diamonds I’d ever been privy to. The spa-like bathroom boasted a wet room with a soaking tub centered on a tall picture window, and large shower with showerheads on opposing walls. A spacious closet opposite the dual vanity was designed in similar fashion to its counterpart in

Via ferrata suspension bridge

There are six via ferrata climbing routes on property.

Adventure Partners offers guided tours of nearby slot canyons.

the bedroom, which cleverly concealed the television and pantry with a coffee machine, a refrigerator stocked with complimentary drinks, and a tempting selection of Dean & DeLuca snacks. Exploring the more than 25 miles of marked trails on property was obviously something I relished in, but for those not interested in exploring on their own, Amangiri adventure staff offer twice daily complimentary guided hikes on property. As an enthusiast of archaeology and Native American culture, I signed up for a short morning hike to Broken Arrow Cave; its massive opening resembled the gaping mouth of a whale shark as it filters plankton from the ocean. Professional excavation of the cave has provided evidence of human habitation dating back to 6300 BC, although its name is derived from a more contemporary reference: the 1996 film Broken Arrow, starring John Travolta and Christian Slater. A climactic scene from the movie was filmed adjacent to the cave and remnants from the set, including a faux mineshaft, still remain. Arguably an extreme offering for a brand so inextricably tied with tranquility, Amangiri has teamed up with Adventure Partners, the property’s on-site guide service, to offer resort guests exclusive access to six via ferrata climbing routes (there are only eight total in the United States). An Italian word meaning “iron road,” via ferrata originated in the Alps, and is a method of assisted rock climbing that essentially allows less experienced

climbers like me to scale peaks that would otherwise be outside the realm of possibility. Staring up at the nearly 600-foot-tall peak I was about to tackle, my knees were trembling and my intense fear of heights prompted a fight or flight battle to rattle around in my mind. Even though I knew that being clipped onto the stainless-steel aircraft cable that snaked up the peak would limit any fall or slip to no more than five feet, the irrational “what ifs” tended to materialize at the most inopportune moments. With the ardent encouragement of my guide, who had the patience of a saint and encouraged me to keep going even when I practically pleaded to turn back, I ever so slowly ascended by alternating between climbing staple-like rungs permanently affixed to the rock in particularly tricky spots and more “authentic” rock climbing, where I had to feel around the surface of the stone to discern the most ideal hand and footholds. By the time I reached the apex, a state of absolute euphoria rushed over me; I stopped to catch my breath, only to have it taken away again by the sweeping views that extended all the way to the Grand Staircase – Escalante National Monument. The descent was just as exciting, and involved crossing a 200-foot suspension bridge that linked two peaks (I refused to cast my eyes anywhere but straight ahead), and then rappelling down a crevasse on the other side.

slmag.net

Octopus with purple potatoes, Constelvetrano olives and piquillo pepper puree

Hamachi Tataki

Chef Jacob Anaya

The Aman brand as a whole is legendary for its “your wish is my command” philosophy in meeting guests’ requests, and an in-room adventure guide provides a good starting point for crafting both self-chaperoned and guided experiences in the immediate area. A sampling of on-property activities includes horseback riding, mountain biking, complimentary yoga and fitness classes and full use of the fitness center and the unisex Water Pavilion area in the spa with dry sauna, steam, cold plunge and soaking pool. Offsite, the options are limited only by your time and energy. A private guided tour led by Adventure Partners through the famous (and hugely popular) slot canyons nearby is an absolute must, and provides access to places devoid of crushing crowds, so you can fully enjoy the magnificence of these natural sculptures. Boating, hot air balloon tours, working with paleontologists to unearth dinosaur bones, rafting, and miles and miles of hiking are all also easily accessible excursions. A destination in its own right, the impressive 25,000 square-foot Aman Spa draws inspiration for its holistic menu from Navajo healing traditions, and utilizes chemical-free Aman skincare products. The spa is such a tranquil and well-designed place of respite that I found myself lingering there frequently to unwind in the surroundings with a cup of herbal Navajo tea, brewed from the indigenous greenthread plant. One of the most popular treatments and the spa’s signature service is the Desert Dream: a 135-minute journey that begins with craniosacral therapy while floating weightlessly in a salt water pool, followed by 30 minutes of unattended floating, before finishing with a 60-minute aromatherapy massage. 64 slmag.net

Under the direction of Executive Chef Jacob Anaya, the dining experience is an absolute delight that delivers an exciting journey through the culinary traditions of the Southwest and beyond. The standard room rate at Amangiri includes breakfast, lunch and dinner for two guests per suite (inclusive of nonalcoholic beverages). A New Mexico native that grew up in a multi-cultural household, Anaya began cooking at a young age under the tutelage of his mother and grandmother, using produce grown in their own garden. The passion he feels for his craft is infectious and discernable in every bite. His plating is so beautifully executed (in particular the vegetarian options), that you’ll want to wait until the light wanes enough to obscure the view outside the floor-to-ceiling windows in the dining room so you can fully appreciate the edible artistry. It is little wonder that the exclusive Aman brand has inspired a legion of “Aman Junkies”. And, it is also not surprising that the company chose this magical part of the country, which boasts the highest concentration of National Parks and National Monuments in the United States, for one of its two US outposts. Setting out on a trail at sunrise each morning and watching the resort slowly disappear from view as I trekked on, I found that it only took me minutes to feel “lost”, but in an equal amount of time I was able to discover so much more. Standard daily rate at Amangiri from $1,400, based on double occupancy. For more information and to make reservations visit online at Amangiri.com. sl

Frameless Shower Doors

Visit our Showroom M-F 8-5, Sat 9-1 9884 Springfield Pike Cincinnati, Ohio 45215 www.ryansallglass.com

513-771-4440

www.ryansallglass.com

HARRY MILTON LEVY HOUSE A Gloriously Preserved Arts & Crafts Stunner Written by Sheree Allgood / Photography by Andrew Kung

Tucked behind magnificent iron gates and situated on a manicured vista of golf course fairways, this beautiful Tudorbethan/Tudor Revival/Craftsman home is the perfect place should you be inclined for a leisurely stroll down Observatory and past Cincinnati Country Club, where all its magnificent detail and superb architecture draw you in to look more closely. The Harry Milton Levy House is first and foremost, a Cincinnati treasure. Its current owners have, thankfully, ensured that it will stay such by having had it registered as a National Historic Landmark in 1998. Built over 100 years ago, (1916 to be exact) by its namesake, it possesses all the dignity and grandeur of the grande dame Mr. Levy had meant her to be. Mr. Levy, perhaps also envisioned her to elevate his status somewhat. While there is a scarcity of information available, he was said to have been a liquor baron in town. He also bequeathed $5,000, a hefty sum in the day, to Harvard College and Harvard Law for students of limited means. That was in 1908 according to searchable records, before he invested close to $250,000 for his dream home and the land surrounding it. The home has had many incarnations through the years, serving as a twofamily apartment, then in the 1970s, it was turned into two condominiums. The current owners purchased both condos in 1993 and began the arduous task of restoring this lovely building to her former glory. And she is beautiful inside and out. The handsomely landscaped exterior melds so artfully into the homeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s exterior and outbuildings (garage/carriage house). The homeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s rear exterior boasts its original cement pool, wide, expansive loggia, and a magnificent hand crafted stone fountain nestled into the western face of home. The brick and stone exterior and deep overhanging rooflines and eaves are a testament to the Arts and Crafts appreciation of harmony in design.

66 slmag.net

slmag.net

Harmony and love of design greet any visitor who enters this stunning home. While the current owners were challenged by the heft of the home’s renovation when they bought in 1993, they possess a great eye for detail and restoration, and each room is a testament to their exceptional taste. All the spaces offer a glimpse into their exquisite and painstakingly acquired collection of fine art and objects. A grand and sunny foyer greets each guest; a hallway opens on to a splendid living room, dining room, kitchen, or straight ahead, leads to the sunny and bright solarium. It is important to note that this entire house is delightfully bright and sunny, which can be rare in the Arts and Crafts movement homes. The solarium is especially cheery, with its south facing expanse of leaded windows, and has a comfortable Carlton Varney feel. A charming feature of the room is its tented ceiling, giving the area a very airy kick. One of the home’s features that the owners did away with was the drab gray tiling in the front entry hall. In its place, they laid a gorgeous French limestone with black granite inlay. By adding some of their prized antique pieces, the owners have designed a delightful and warm welcome for all their guests. Off the hall is the sumptuous formal living room, an airy expanse, wellappointed with the finer collections the family has acquired. A broad window overlooks the home’s front yard, offering a park-like view. Even with its proximity to the road, the home is a quiet refuge, with no interference from the outside world. Much of this glorious room’s charm can be attributed to the painted masonry medallions on the ceiling and the painted wood paneling on the room’s walls which again add to the ebullient presentation.

68 slmag.net

slmag.net

70 slmag.net

slmag.net

72 slmag.net

slmag.net

74 slmag.net

Just up the carved chestnut staircase (past the large and lovely leaded glass window which overlooks a bucolic Cincinnati Country Club) is the homeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s masterpiece: a library of incomparable beauty and warmth. Completely designed by the current owners, the room is a bit western whimsy (beautiful cowhide chairs and a bison head above the fireplace), a bit English country house (a glorious collection of leather-bound books in dark paneled built-in library shelves), and a bit of moneyed Kentucky highbrow horse farm (exquisite portraits of horse and rider). A place to retire after riding to the hounds, or golfing a few rounds, or to enjoy a quiet sit down with a Thomas Hardy tome. Back down the staircase is another spectacular room, every bit as wellappointed as her sister rooms. The dining room also is a superb gallery of fine collections, its red lacquered walls an invitation to sumptuous cuisine as well as the perfect palette to display some beguiling paintings from the past. One of note is gorgeously displayed above a deep Demilune where a brilliant sterling silver service regally stands guard. While there is an abundance of art and antiquity about the home, there is a great feel of family and gracious comfortable living. Off the dining room is the gourmet kitchen which looks out over the back garden. A cozy family room with a fireplace and adjacent breakfast nook is well appointed yet relaxed, elevated even more so with the dazzling David Hicks blue and white wall paper, tying the space together with smart detail. Harry Milton Levy left our city a wonderful legacy in his lovely old home. The current owners have built on that legacy, restoring this magnificent gem, keeping her safe from modern architectural whims, and transporting us back to a time when a leisurely stroll down a tree-lined avenue allowed us to appreciate the beauty of a home of perfect design and form. sl

slmag.net

HTCI1015.097

EVOLODESIGN.COM

7813 Ted Gregory Lane in Olde Montgomery

513.791.6800

Fhel_Z_d] Yecfh[^[di_l[ Z[i_]d" \khd_i^_d]i WdZ _dijWbbWj_ed i[hl_Y[ je emd[hi e\ \_d[ êc[i j^hek]êkj =h[Wj[h 9_dY_ddWj_ Providing an integrated approach to design, construction, and furnishings for owners of fine homes throughout greater Cincinnati

C7JJ 8O;HI @7O J7A79> FH?I8;J O7D;I I7H7> J>EC7I JH?9?7 IF7D= MATT BYERS • JAY TAKACH • PRISBET YANES • TRICIA SPANG • JAN TRIBBEY • EMILY SKINNER

ALBERLY MANOR 9200 SHAWNEE RUN ROAD

Indian Hill This 1926 English manor is an architectural work of art that proudly retains its original integrity while coalescing with today’s luxuries including Geothermal, new culinary kitchen, wine cellar, theatre room, salt water pool, pool house/workout room, tennis court and guest bedroom en suite.

EXCEPTIONAL PROPERTIES COUNTRY MODERN RE TRE AT 1748 WAGGONER RIFFLE ROAD

Adams County Designed with a reverence for nature. Extraordinary lodge with polished architectural design and warm hospitality. 120 acres cater to outdoor recreation and merges with the Edge of Appalachia Nature Preserve. A picturesque drive from Cincinnati.

For further information, please contact:

RENIE L. DOHRMANN • 513-405-4141 rdohrmann@sibcycline.com

CHRIS DOHRMANN • 513-328-0777 cdohrmann@sibcycline.com

LA BELLA VITA RULES AT VIA VITE Written by Sheree Allgood / Photography by Andrew Kung

Chef Christian Pietoso

For ten years, Cincinnati’s resident genius chef, Cristian Pietoso has been creating the most delicious, inventive, inspired and authentic Italian dishes at his flagship restaurant, Via Vite. Raised in Florence, Italy, Chef Pietoso honed his trade with renowned chefs in his hometown, graduated from the Culinary Institute of Florence and served as Pastry Chef at the world famous Savoy Hotel in London, before coming to Cincinnati in 2004 to join his father at Nicola’s, where he was Executive Chef until opening Via Vite. His vision was for a more rustic yet authentic presentation for his exquisitely prepared food, in a comfortable, less formal venue. He has since added Forno in Hyde Park and America Burger Bar to his portfolio. Everything about the Via Vite celebrates what is good…what is good about a lip-smacking good glass of humble Italian table wine, or what is good about pairing that with astoundingly prepared Rabbit Porchetta, or even what is good about this lovely space tucked next to Fountain Square, for all the world to enjoy and for its patrons to enjoy all the world. Via Vite, at its heart, is a place of refined simplicity, a distillate of all the beauty to be found in engaging the five senses when experiencing dining at its zenith.

78 slmag.net

Rabbit Porchetta: Mid-western raised rabbit, pork filet, pickled baby carrots, beet aioli, frisee, vincotto

slmag.net

Beginning with the inspired ambiance of the Via Vite, its steel and glass structure with open kitchen and bar evokes a big city vibe that always impresses. Its soaring interior is sleek and has a palpable cutting edge Milanese vibe, yet tempers that with a Tuscan rustic feel which includes warm woods and stone. Via Vite is well- known for is elegant bar, and is loved by many downtown residents for its generous and lively Happy Hour. The cocktails at Via Vite are unrivaled, and are lovingly crafted by welltrained mixologists. Hearkening back to Chef Pietoso’s Florentine home are a selection of Classic Italian Cocktails. Offered is a light and breezy Aperol Spritz, boasting Aperol, Prosecco and soda, served on the rocks with a fresh orange slice. The lovely sipper is a zippy aperitif; think Italian mimosa, yet as refreshing and sunny as a Tuscan hillside. A tasty cocktail with a closeto-home connection is offered as a Via Vite Specialty drink, the Bourbon Rosemary Smash. Always on the hunt for the perfect Kentucky whiskey based treat, this a sassy gem with Bulleit bourbon, rosemary, maple syrup, and fresh lemon, served on the rocks. Fresh, tangy and complex. The Antipasti at any Italian establishment is a true test of its spirit, and at Via Vite it is heavenly. There is no skimping on the quality of ingredients; everything is of the highest and freshest quality available. The beautiful Nizzardo Bruschetta is exceptional, and certainly outshines any other found on this side of the Atlantic. It is a mélange of tuna confit, cerignola olive, haricot verts, Yukon potato, red bell pepper, red onion and hard-boiled egg, served on Blue Oven Bakery bread and dusted with fennel pollen. This is a taste sensation, a crusty, crunchy bread topped with a delightful kicked up version of salad nicoise, but so much better. One of Chef ’s favorite dishes, and a true stunner is the Rabbit Porchetta, which offers Midwestern raised rabbit, pork filet, picked baby carrots, bet aioli, frisee, and vincotto. This tender dish, featuring medallions of lean succulent rabbit wrapped in white prosciutto cured pork fat, marries beautifully with fennel seed pickled carrots and a sweetened reduced balsamic aioli. Another delight is the Beef Carpaccio, served with a beguiling arugula-yogurt, and tangy Parmigiano Reggiano, radish and citronette. The Zuppe E Insalate offerings reflect Via Vite’s love of fresh, authentic Italian dishes. Cioppino, which is a seafood tomato stew, is served with lightly charred Blue Oven Bread. The salads offer a variety of flavors and parings, many locally sources, and tossed with exciting and palate-pleasing delights. These include a sumptuous local Arugula and Artisanal Coppa with citronette, and Parmigiano Reggiano; a Tricolore salad with living lettuce, endive, radicchio, spiced walnuts, Pecorino, pear, and a cider-shallot vinaigrette, and a Boucheron Goat Cheese with spring mix, frisee, pistachio, and a light toss of raspberry-truffle vinaigrette.

80 slmag.net

Nizzardo Bruschetta: Tuna confit, cerignola olive, haricot verts, yukon potato, red bell pepper, red onion and hard boiled egg Charred Corn Salad: cannellini beans, cucumber, nicoise olives, bell peppers, Italian parsley, citronette

slmag.net

Beef Carpaccio: Arugula-yogurt, parmigiano reggiano, radish, citronette

82 slmag.net

Carnaroli Risotto ‘Di Mare’: calamari, scallop, mussels, shrimp, clam and tomato

From the Primi menu, we reveled in the sumptuous and rich Carnaroli Risotto ‘Di Mare’. The exquisite dish combines the best of the ocean’s bounty in a mellow risotto tomato sauce. Calamari, scallop, mussels, shrimp, clam and tomato are topped with a lobster tail, and a sprinkling of fresh micro greens, to round out this amazing dish. It is perfect from start to finish, and while complex in textures and flavors, it is still entirely rustic Italian, abounding with simple, fresh ingredients. One of the true delights of unadulterated Italian cooking is its love for all the delicious offering of the world’s bodies of water. Chef Pietoso and his culinary team are adept at using a variety of flavorful pesce in many of the outstanding dishes at Via Vite. In the Secondi offerings, there is a stunner of a dish in the Black Bass with sunchoke puree, served in piccata sauce, with fried capers, brown butter vinaigrette and marcona almonds. This is a hearty dish, rich in flavor, with an outstanding and perfectly mastered brown butter vinaigrette. The Golden Trout is another delight that is perfectly honed to flavorful perfection. Served on a flavorful bed of cauliflower-leek ‘pappa’, fresh artichoke sauce with a lovely watermelon radish, this medium to light bodied fish is skillfully prepared, where each delicate flavor emerges without overpowering the luscious fish. To add to the wondrous Primi and Secondi, consider seriously the Fennel Gratin from the Sides to Share. Fennel is braised in white wine and cream, with fresh thyme, Parmigiano Reggiano, and smoked pancetta. The question is, who will get the last bite? As this is a dish to share, my suggestion is not to put your fork down, as your tablemates will finish this dish off di fretta! It is amazing in its rich creaminess and its savory and smoky depth. A must not miss.

slmag.net

The Restaurant Bar

84 slmag.net

Golden Trout: Cauliflower-leek â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;papaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;, fresh artichoke sauce, watermelon radish

slmag.net

Raspberry Bavarese: Creme fraiche, pistachio cookie, raspberry puree

86 slmag.net

We would be remiss if we did not mention the most iconic part of any well-respected Italian establishment, a deep and storied wine cellar. Madison, our server, was most adept at assuring our wines paired with the lovingly nuanced fish, and the more robust dishes. Two in particular to mention are the Rosso Veronese, Zenato ‘Alanere’ 2013 Verona, an earthy, classic Italian table wine with big flavor built around the Amarone grape. The second, a Super Tuscan, Le Farnete ‘Carmignamo’ 2013 Toscana, is a beautiful San Genovese, while strong on the start finishes with beautiful smoothness. This is such a special wine that Chef Pietoso served it at his wedding. We finished our deep dive into this extraordinary Italian adventure with three exquisite desserts, all house made. Included in this delectable offering were a lovely Fig Tart, with fig jam, frangipane, served a la mode with vanilla bean gelato, and lightly dusted with powdered sugar. A Buttermilk Pannacotta is a sweet little cupola with orange blossom honey and grapefruit supremes. The beautiful Raspberry Bavarese is a flavor explosion, with crème fraiche, pistachio cookie, bathed in a sweet-tart raspberry puree. For a provocative after dinner drink, indulge in the Caffe Corretto, a flavorful blend of espresso and Watershed “Nocino”, a locally sourced (Columbus, OH) walnut liqueur, which smooths out the espresso, and removes any trace of bitterness from the coffee. It is good to note that menus at Via Vite change seasonally, and that it takes up to two months to perfect the offering. In summer, expect three fish and two meat; the reverse is usually true in the winter. In securing the freshest and finest ingredients, the team at Via Vite can bring the best to table year-round. While Chef Pietoso has given our city a forward-thinking restaurant, he says he will not abandon his Florentine roots, visiting his homeland to discover the ever-burgeoning treasure trove of flavors to present to those blessed enough to live in the Queen City. He will still bring us the finest food he and his talented staff can create to present at table. He has embraced Cincinnati and Cincinnatians for their sense of culinary adventure, their loyalty and their great sense of community. We feel much the same toward this wonderful, masterful chef, and his gastronomic masterworks. sl Via Vite is located on Fountain Square, 520 Vine Street, Downtown Cincinnati 513.721.8483 or 513.721.8480 for private events/viaviterestaurant.com. Hours are Monday through Thursday 11 a.m. – 10 p.m., Friday 11 a.m. – 11 p.m., Saturday Brunch 10 a.m. – 3 p.m., Saturday Dinner 4 p.m. – 11 p.m. / Bar 2 a.m., Sunday Brunch 10 a.m. – 3 p.m., Sunday Dinner 4 p.m. – 10 p.m.

slmag.net

SUNDAYS | 8:30PM Join Barbara Kellar as she showcases performing artists and cultural leaders from the Greater Cincinnati community.

CET Arts is available over-the-air on channel 48.3, Time Warner Cable (Ohio) 987, Cincinnati Bell Fioptics 248, Time Warner Cable (Northern Kentucky) 192.

CRYST

RAMA

Jennings Colection

Y O U R H O M E S AY S A L O T A B O U T Y O U . W E’ R E H E R E TO LI S TE N . Your home is a reflection of you. Ferguson’s product experts are here to listen to every detail of your vision, and we’ll work alongside you and your designer, builder or remodeler to bring it to life. Our product experts will help you find the perfect products from the finest bath, kitchen and lighting brands in the world. Request an appointment with your own personal Ferguson product expert and let us discover the possibilities for your next project. Visit FergusonShowrooms.com to get started.

HILLIARD (614) 876–8555 CINCINNATI (513) 771–6000 INDIANAPOLIS (317) 253-1569

INDIANAPOLIS (317) 689-6667 CARMEL (317) 705–0794

FergusonShowrooms.com

John F. Barrett and Dr. William L. Barrett

Philanthropy Profile

BARRETT BROTHERS JOIN FORCES TO BEAT CANCER Written by Lisa Stephenson Powell

On any day, in any given season, the philanthropic and professional contributions of John F. Barrett, Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer of Western & Southern Financial Group (Western & Southern), and his brother, Dr. William L. Barrett, Director of the University of Cincinnati Cancer Institute, Professor and Chairman of the Department of Radiation Oncology, and Medical Director of the Barrett Center for Cancer Prevention, Treatment and Research (Barrett Cancer Center), touch the lives of people in Cincinnati and around the country. Mother Theresa wrote, “I alone cannot change the world, but I can cast a stone across the waters to create many ripples.” The ripples of change promulgated by Mr. Barrett and Dr. Barrett influence employees of Western & Southern; the successful fundraising events sponsored by the company; clients who seek financial security ; and those who are providing, and receiving, medical care at the Barrett Cancer Center. The gentlemen grew up in Cincinnati in a large, loving and close-knit family. There were six siblings (Mr. Barrett is the third eldest, Dr. Barrett is the youngest) surrounded by, at one count, over 30 first cousins. Their father was a physician and their mother, the oldest of eight, was a homemaker. Their brothers, Fran and Mike, are attorneys,

90 slmag.net

and both served as Chairman of UC’s Board of Trustees. Mike is a federal judge. Their sisters, Angie Eynon and Marian Leibold, are married to a lawyer (Ernest Eynon) and to a doctor (Dr. John L. Leibold), respectively, and are actively involved in Cincinnati. Mr. Barrett and Dr. Barrett have followed similar paths of education, accomplishment and an ultimate return to their hometown. Mr. Barrett graduated from the University of Cincinnati with a major in business and spent 16 years working for the Bank of New York. “I spent 13 years in Manhattan and it was fantastic,” he recalled. “I went there quite green, not very sophisticated, but very, very eager. I was fortunate to have had a number of wonderful mentors who took an interest in my development as my career progressed.” Mr. Barrett started in the bank’s training program and within eight years he was in charge of all of the bank’s corporate banking business for 25 states and the District of Columbia; he was later tasked with the assignment of starting a bank from scratch. “After three years, it became the single most profitable part of the Bank of New York. We opened a credit card and regional banking operation. On the day of its inception, it was only $131 million in assets. The day I left, it was over $4.5 billion in assets and highly profitable.”

Mr. Barrett joined Western & Southern in 1987 as Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, just as the company approached its centennial anniversary. Its traditional business model was to provide modest and middle-income Americans with the opportunity to purchase life insurance. “That has not changed,” Mr. Barrett said. “We continue to be one of the largest companies that serves middle-income clients, but our former approach, while successful, was old fashioned – in the early 1980s we stopped selling door-to-door – and we needed a new style in order to expand and to reach people more quickly.” As the company transitioned, banks and financial institution networks began to sell its products, and the conversion was impressive: Western & Southern is nearly 20 times larger, serves 2 million clients through 52,000 individuals licensed to sell products and services from Western & Southern member companies nationwide; and its capital-to-asset ratio, a measure of a company’s financial strength, is one of the highest in the country. “We offer many financial solutions,” Mr. Barrett continued. “We expanded beyond life insurance to include investments and retirement services. Our finance and investment people are as good as any in the world; our systems people are top drawer; and

our actuaries are first rate. When you have that kind of brain power beneath one roof it’s wonderful, and their collaboration has transformed the culture of our company, which is key.” As a former lender in the banking industry, Mr. Barrett was cognizant of honoring promises to clients, and vowed that Western & Southern would always live up to its promises. Under Mr. Barrett’s leadership, the organization has adopted a living, breathing way of doing business, which he described as doing the right thing, the right way, over and over again – all with the customer in mind. “You have to believe in the future,” he said, “and I am an incessant dreamer. We always look forward, which helps us to be a top performer, and our core question is, ‘How can we get better?’ Our four disciplines – customer mission, home office mission, financial mission and our business development mission – make us the place where clients do business throughout their lives. I hope my legacy will be the culture within Western & Southern, which in my opinion is the finest in the country, or anywhere in the world. And when our employees retire, I’d like them to quote our mantra, which is, ‘I could not have enjoyed my work more nor would I have done better anywhere else.’”

slmag.net

John F. Barrett

Among many other sponsorships, Western & Southern sponsors six major annual fundraising events whose proceeds assist local charities and organizations. The tradition begins each April, with the Walk MS for research; the Western & Southern team is the largest in the country. The harbinger of summer is Ride Cincinnati, which, this year, will expand funding to include research for all types of cancer in addition to breast cancer; the event will be held on Sunday, June 11. In August, the Western & Southern Open will offer more than a week of worldclass tennis. “We host the best players around,” Mr. Barrett said, “and it’s truly a first-class event that is held in a state-of-the-art facility. The Western & Southern Open is the nation’s oldest professional tennis tournament played in its city of origin (since 1899), and it is among the nine worldwide prestigious ATP Masters 1000 events. It brings in approximately $50 million each year in economic impact and benefits Cincinnati Children’s Hospital, the University of Cincinnati Cancer Institute, The Paul & Carolyn Flory Fund and Tennis City for Youth.” To close out the summer, Western & Southern sponsors a spectacular event – the Western & Southern/WEBN Fireworks – that features the famous Rozzi fireworks and a synchronized music soundtrack broadcast live by local radio giant WEBN. More than 500,000 gather along the Ohio River and local TV viewers tune in to celebrate the last blast of summer. Mr. Barrett described it as “crazy and wonderful” and proceeds go to the Freestore Food Bank. Western & Southern is the major sponsor of

92 slmag.net

a Thanksgiving Day Race, which benefits the Ronald McDonald House Charities, among others; and, at the end of the year, it pays for the display of the Crib of the Nativity at the Krohn Conservatory, aiding the Salvation Army. Each of these events is made possible by the hundreds of volunteers who work tirelessly to make them successful. Mr. Barrett added that Western & Southern has increased support of United Way (one out of three people in the eightcounty metro are helped by the agency every year), as well as ArtsWave, which buoys the vibrancy of the arts in our city and communities. “Almost every senior leader is on a charitable or civic board, which is good, because a person can become very insulated within a company, and a company can become equally insulated as a business. The social interaction benefits us as well as those we serve.” Western & Southern’s first location in 1888 was on Sixth and Main streets, in two rooms, and it has remained an integral part of the downtown landscape. The company’s buildings range from housing units that were designated for lower income tenants (“30 years later, they are still there and functioning beautifully”) to the majestic Great American Tower at Queen City Square. The breathtaking, 665-foot high skyscraper opened officially at 1:11 in the afternoon on January 11, 2011. It was designed by Gyo Obata of HOK and its design was inspired by a tiara worn by Princess Diana, providing the image of a crown for the Queen City. The structure offers more than 2,200 parking spaces, over

Dr. William L. Barrett

1 million square feet of space (almost completely occupied) and Jean-Robert’s new Restaurant L. The building is the tallest and greenest in Cincinnati, the third tallest in the state and was the only commercial project of its size built in the United States during the recession. “It’s a complete success,” Mr. Barrett said. Western & Southern will continue to implement changes that inspire its neighborhood. The Phelps Apartment Building was transformed into a popular boutique hotel; work on Lytle Park is under way and, when completed, will boast a rubberized running track – the first of its kind downtown; and a boutique-style Marriott Autograph Collection hotel will open in 2018. In July, an AC Hotel by Marriott® will open near the Reds Hall of Fame. But buildings, portfolios and awards are not the most important representations of Western & Southern. “We use good judgment; we have the ability to say ‘no’ when necessary, and we pursue an unrequited desire to do better,” Mr. Barrett said. “Our quiet ambition is not about being political or cut-throat or ego-boosting – that’s not what we are about. Our people are collegial, and because they work well together they accomplish very good things together.” Not surprisingly, amid an ever-growing cluster of construction in Clifton, Mr. Barrett’s brother pursues the same quest for distinction and innovation. Dr. Barrett, who has a rapid-fire speech pattern, spoke about his career and the Barrett Cancer Center with enthusiasm and thoughtful reflection. He graduated from the University of Virginia and attended the University of Cincinnati School of Medicine before completing

a fellowship at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center in New York. He was exposed to the rigors of the profession while he was in college, working in the emergency room. “If ever there was a situation that was made for drama, and perfect for a television series, it’s the emergency room,” he said with a smile. “It was fascinating – the injuries, the diseases, the interaction between the doctors, orderlies trying to calm patients – and I was very grateful to have had that opportunity.” Dr. Barrett chose to pursue radiation oncology for three reasons: it was important, it deals with a life-threatening disease and it helps the vast majority of people who receive it. Dr. Barrett returned to Cincinnati 25 years ago and the Barrett Cancer Center was opened in January of 1989. “When my father practiced medicine, we didn’t have chemotherapy, radiation treatment was rudimentary, and our techniques and post-operative care were nothing like they are today. Our tag line is ‘Great care begins with a great plan’ and my father’s goal in having the center built was to bring brilliant minds together, to make each other smarter and to change the treatment of cancer.” The Barrett Cancer Center has approximately 100 clinicians on staff, 3,000 new patients are seen every year and many thousands are seen for follow-up appointments. Ten working groups meet on a regular basis to discuss newly diagnosed patients, many of whom participate in clinical trials. Daily, Dr. Barrett sees patients who have completed cancer treatment – some very recently, some as long as 25 years ago.

slmag.net

John F. Kennedy said that nothing compares with the simple pleasure of riding a bike, and on the second Sunday in June Ride Cincinnati will celebrate its eleventh anniversary; cyclists will gather at Yeatman’s Cove for a half-day fundraiser to benefit the Barrett Cancer Center. It was founded by Dr. Harvey Harris, who lost his wife to breast cancer, his family and Dr. Barrett’s sister-in-law, Eileen, who also had the disease. “Harvey was a cyclist, and they came up with the idea to start a ride that would raise money for breast cancer research. Each year, the number of participants has increased, and in 2016 we had 2,200 cyclists,” he said. Starting times are staggered and a participant has the choice of cycling anywhere from 8 miles to 100, or to participate in a 5K run/walk. There’s also a non-road Kid’s Fun Ride for those 8 and under. At noon, there is an after-party that offers music, food, activities for children and local exhibitors. A shared spirit abounds and the ride’s modest entry fee has kept it family, and individual, friendly. “It’s just a great event,” he said, “that represents the ultimate in collaboration. We bring people together from the community, as well as researchers, friends and patients. And after the ride, people have a sense of having participated in something very special that is also very important.” 94 slmag.net

More than $2.5 million has been raised by Ride Cincinnati, and those funds have been used for research projects for cancer prevention and diagnosis, leading to a better prognosis. Approximately 34 research grants have been awarded during the past decade, and many of them have gone on to receive additional funding from the National Institutes of Health, the Susan B. Komen Foundation and the National Cancer Institute (NCI). One of the ride’s grants contributed to the Proton Therapy Center, which provides alternate treatment to traditional radiation. “Conventional radiation penetrates the tissue and, to some extent, goes beyond the target of cancer,” Dr. Barrett explained. “But Proton Beam Radiation penetrates to a discrete depth, and then stops abruptly, with less collateral damage to the tissue and fewer side effects. This is especially important for children who are particularly sensitive to radiation, and for adults with cancer surrounding a critical structure like the brain or spinal cord. The technique is accessible only in 20 locations, is new to our region and is the most advanced treatment available. It also signifies our pledge to advancing cancer care to the University, to Children’s Hospital and to the community.” The Barrett Cancer Center, like Western & Southern Financial Group, is a special place that embraces an altruistic philosophy. “As

John F. Barrett and Dr. William L. Barrett

the leader of this company, I have to influence people to do the right thing,” Mr. Barrett said. “And if that is done successfully our culture will grow, Western & Southern will prosper and our efforts will make a positive difference in people’s lives.” Dr. Barrett added, “I think the care that people receive, while maintaining dignity, has a huge influence on the healing process. We feel as though we are members of a patient’s family and circle of friends, and it’s a privilege to be here. When dealing with human nature, I think the single most important word is respect; people respond to it and my colleagues live up to it. The Barrett Cancer Center is unique and patients tell me every day that they have never experienced an atmosphere like this. One of my favorite quotes is by Maya Angelou, who said, ‘People may forget what you said, and what you did, but they won’t forget how you made them feel.’” Dr. Barrett is currently working to have the Barrett Cancer Center achieve NCI designation, which specifies that an institution is performing cutting edge research. After a 1,500-page application is completed, 20 individuals visit the facility to conduct interviews and to rate research projects. Nationwide, there are 1,400 cancer centers but only 70 are designated NCI centers. Ride Cincinnati will be a catalyst for the University to receive NCI approval.

Mr. Barrett and his brother share many of the same mindsets, but one in particular is identical for both gentlemen: keep it local. “The mission of the Barrett Cancer Center is that nobody should have to leave Cincinnati in order to receive the very best care,” Dr. Barrett said. “The treatment is challenging enough, but if a patient has to receive it in another city the situation becomes even more difficult emotionally, financially and logistically. We want to be able to look somebody in the eye and tell them that they will receive care in Cincinnati that is as good as any place in the world.” “The NCI designation is the next step to providing exemplary cancer care, and we want to be one of the top five centers in the country, which we think is an achievable goal,” Mr. Barrett said. “Western & Southern provided a $10 million commitment to jump-start the initiative and show other area companies this is serious. Our objective is to raise $100 million, which will be used to recruit the finest scientists and clinicians. If an average patient in Cincinnati can see a first-class oncologist just by walking into a building, that’s pretty darn good.” He smiled and added, “Tell the world we’re coming. Cincinnati is going to be home to a top-flight cancer center, providing top-flight care, in a city that we want people to regard as a lifetime destination.” sl

slmag.net

GURU Fit System Exclusively at the Montgomery Location, the state of the art GURU fit system enables cyclists of all ages and experience levels to find the perfect bike and riding position to match their personal preferences. Call or schedule an appointment today.

Visit Us At One of Our 6 Locations Montgomery: 513.793.3855

Beechmont: 513.474.5888

Erlanger: 859.342.7300

West Chester: 513.779.6767

Loveland: 513.583.8600

Western Hills: 513.574.1305

www.montgomerycyclery.com

SINCE 1965

Cutting edge contemporary art, by a new generation of artists.

Anguish by Sea Andrea Sallee

Cincinnati Ar t Underground

cincinnatiartunderground.com info@cincinnatiartunderground.com

1415 Main St Cincinnati, OH 45202 513.716.1172

SOPHISTICATED SOCIETY

May 3 4 & 6 4 7 9 9 9 12 12 12-13 13 15 16 17 19 20 21 & 22 24 25

A Springer Celebration! CSO: Violin Legends: Midori – Taft Theatre American Heart Association: Go Red For Women Experience Lindner Center of Hope presents Community Education Day – Manor House Cincinnati Youth Collaborative’s 6th Annual United “FORE” Youth Golf Classic – Vineyard Golf Course Cincinnati POPS with Ben Folds – Taft Theatre St. Vincent de Paul’s Celebration of Service, honoring Mike Conaton Wine Women and Shoes for Cancer Support Community: Kenwood CC 6:30-10:30 Oil Painters of America National Exhibition Opening Reception: Eisele Gallery of Fine Art 6-9PM CSO: Stravinsky’s Firebird – Taft Theatre JDRF’s Cincinnatian of the year Gala Dragonfly Golf Classic – Heritage Club Dragonfly.org/Golf Cancer Family Cares: Unsung Hero Awards Jewish Federation of Cincinnati 121st Annual Meeting ZooLaLa – Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Gardens American Heart Association: HeartChase NKY Annual Marvin Lewis Golf Classic Weekend Jewish Federation of Cincinnati: Sustainers Event DAV/RecruitMilitary All-Veterans career Fair – Paul Brown Stadium

June TBD TBD TBD TBD 3 5 5 5 8 10 – 9/3 12 16 16 19 19 24

98 slmag.net

Giving is Good…So is Kings Island Experience Ronald McDonald House Golf Classic Karen Wellington Foundation Golf Outing & After Party – Maketewah Country Club Marvin Lewis Youth Football Camp JDRF’s One Walk – Kings Island CABVI Vision Classic Golf Outing Cincinnati International Wine Festival’s Annual Russ Wiles Memorial Golf Tournament 25th Annual Tee Up for Tender Mercies – Clovernook Country Club Wild About Wine – Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Gardens A Shared Legacy: Folk Art In America – Cincinnati Art Museum Stepping Stone Golf Classic – O’Bannon Creek Golf Club Cincinnati Art Museum: A Taste of Duveneck Presents The Art of Wine CEI Foundation: ‘Tee Off for Sight’ Annual Golf Outing – Blue Ash Golf Course Down Syndrome Association’s Golf Tournament hosted by Dave Lapham St. Joseph Orphanage Annual Golf Outing Rotary’s 2017 Believe 2 Achieve

17 Locations In The Tri-State Area to Better Serve Our Patients Custom Cataract Surgery With Premium Lifestyle Lenses • Blade Free LASIK Glaucoma • Vitreoretinal Diseases & Surgery • Ocular Oncology Oculoplastic Surgery • Corneal & External Disease Neuro Ophthalmology • Emergency Care

Call today to schedule your examination

To learn more about the charitable work CEI does through The CEI Foundation, please visit www.CEIFoundation.org.

Photography by Tony Bailey

2 2

TIFFANY GLASS EXHIBIT OPENING

The Cincinnati Art Museumâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s founders society was treated to a special showcase to help kick off the opening of the newest special exhibit, Tiffany Glass: Painting with Color and Light. Many works on loan from the Neustadt Collection of Tiffany Glass out of Queens, New York, were on display for founders to mingle and view. Currently on display until August 13th, stop by the museum to see this incredible display of fine art.

6 4

9 8

10 11

100 slmag.net

1) David & Jenny Powell 2) Richard Zinicola with Linda Holthaus 3) Mike & Kathy Krug 4) Kasey Jo Trbovich with Brad Hawse 5) Chris & Wayne Lippert 6) Kirby Neumann, Susan & Scott Barbee, with David Linnenberg 7) Steve & Anita Brading 8) Carol Edmondson, Michael Chasnoff, & Alisa Thurner 9) Jon & Ann Keeling 10) Emmanuelle & Frederic Paillaogue 11) Francie & Steve Condon 12) Valerie Newell with Polk & Pinky Laffoon

Haute Papier

Photography by Tony Bailey

3 4

SOPHISTICATED GIVING KICK OFF RECEPTION

The Cincinnati Art Museum played host for the first ever Sophisticated Giving Kick Off Reception to help celebrate its inaugural publication. More than 180 guests attended the event as proud donors, volunteers, trustees, and executive leadership of 48 non-profit organizations mingled while viewing the Art Museumsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; newest exhibit, Dressed To Kill. Back issues of Sophisticated Giving can be found online through the Cincinnati Market homepage.

8 7

102 slmag.net

1) Paul and Mary Palmer 2) Matthew Millett with Bill Kelleher 3) Carly & Matt Athey with Gary Blomberg 4) Kim Lucken, Petra Vester, Becky Gable, Jamie Gindele, & Melissa Newman 5) Matthew Millett 6) Julie Bookman, Mark & Shawna Kinsel, with Laura & Mike Smith 7) Jim Yunker with Debbie Bowman 8) Dave Herche with Tim & Janet Johnson

Photography by Tony Bailey

SOPHISTICATED GIVING KICK OFF RECEPTION

13 12

9) Sue Ellen Stuebing with Robert Ashe 10) Bruce & Mary Ryan with David Millett 11) Kirstin Eisman with Lynwood Battle 12) Matthew Millett with John Mocker 13) Kelly Crow with Peggy Kreimer

slmag.net 103

Photography by Tony Bailey

7 6

SAKS JASON WU FEATURE TO SUPPORT PBF

The runway-stopping designs of Jason Wu were the center of attention at a cocktail party hosted by Saks at the home of Chris and Jessica Cicchinelli to benefit the Patty Brisben Foundation for Women’s Sexual Health. Jason Wu has famously designed for many successful women, including the inaugural ball gown worn by First Lady Michelle Obama in 2008. Wu says his “passion is making women feel beautiful and I couldn’t be happier to support a cause that champions women’s health, research and education.”

9 8

104 slmag.net

1) Nicole Stephenson Barbara Copeland, Matthew Millett, & Marchelle Owens 2) Amanda Van Roolyen, Erika Gina, & Melissa Rosehagen 3) Amanda Van Roolyen, Candace Cioffi, & Michelle Jones 4) Isla Vogelpohl with Rachel Brisben 5) Susan Zaunbrecher with Tina Disanto 6) Cheryl Rose with Valerie Newell 7) Gustavo Rangel, Patty Brisben & Jodi Geiser 8) Tara Vigran with Jessica Cicchinelli 9) Mark Adams with Carol Williams

Photography by Tony Bailey

1 2

4 3

PEOPLE WORKING COOPERATIVELYâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S TOOLBELT BALL

This year People Working Cooperatively changed the look of its annual ball to create a formal, fun, and informative gathering of friends, donors, and volunteers in the form of the ToolBelt Ball! While attendees kicked up their shoes and partied through the night, they also learned about the important mission and strong impact People Working Cooperatively plays in the lives of those in the community.

10 9

106 slmag.net

1) Julie & Chris Medell, Jeve & Lyn McIntyre, with Patrick & Stephanie Fuller 2) Kurt & Carol Quackenbush with Shirley & Scott May 3) Deval Motka, Hitesh Deshmukh, & Karen Luther 4) Sheila & Scott Redding with Tuyet & Alex Hearn 5) Dennis & Catherine Dunwoodie with Chelsea & Jon Finkler 6) Julie Jeffries, Meredith Southard, & Donna Russell 7) Melissa & Dan Lubrecht 8) Craig McKee with Tanya Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Rourke 9) Deb & Jock Pitts 10) Ron Henlein with Patti Bradt

Spring into Sophsitication with

ENJOY

$50 OFF YOUR FIRST

PURCHASE OF $100 OR MORE

ENJOY

$300 OFF YOUR FIRST

CUSTOM CLOTHING PURCHASE*

9407 Montgomery Rd • 513.791.9970 • blainesapparel.com

Photography by Tony Bailey

3 4

LIFE LEARNING CENTER’S ANNUAL GALA

Life Learning Center’s St. Patrick’s Roast of Marvin Lewis was an amazing success thanks to the support of generous sponsors, volunteers, and community partners! Together on one stage, 3 NFL Head Coaches Marvin Lewis (Cincinnati Bengals), Hue Jackson (Cleveland Browns) and Mike Zimmer (Minnesota Vikings) provided hilarious entertainment sharing stories and jokes throughout the Live Auction and Paddle Raise! This year, Life Learning Center raised over $300,000 for the Center’s 12-week education and care continuum which provides “at-risk” individuals the necessary resources to reach their highest potential.

7 8

108 slmag.net

1) Jamie Janette & Sandy Schick 2) Hue Jackson, Marvin Lewis, & Mike Zimmer 3) Hue Jackson, Mike Zimmer, Bill & Sue Butler, with Marvin Lewis 4) Judge Nathaniel Jones 5) Amanda Voskhul a member of Life Learning Center 6) Marvin Lewis & Hue Jackson 7) Jo Kwong 8) Auctioneer Mike Brown 9) Hue Jackson, Mike Zimmer, Alecia & Ted Edgington, with Marvin Lewis 10 )Emcee Tom Banta

The Landscape Experts (513) 478-1541 www.cincinnatilandscapeservices.com

We specialize in a broad range of landscaping techniques and work hand-in-hand with a team of grounds maintenance professionals to bring you a well-rounded approach to your lawn & landscape needs.

Photography by Tony Bailey

1 2

4 3

INTERNATIONAL WINE FESTIVAL’S CHARITY AUCTION AND LUNCHEON

This year’s charity luncheon held at the Hilton Netherland Plaza was an added success to the great weeks of fundraising through wine. Guests enjoyed a charity auction and luncheon where they bid on fine wines and fabulous trips, while dining alongside winery representatives. Thanks to the tremendous support of the Greater Cincinnati community this year, the Wine Festival will soon top $5 million in total donations to local charities since its inception in 1991.

8 9

110 slmag.net

1) Amy Lortz, Jenna Hudson & Bonnie DiGiacomo 2) Kathy Merchant with John Mocker 3) Graeme & Clayton Daley with George Elliott 4) Mary Ann Remke, Kathy Merchant & Dan Fales 5) Ian O’Ryan, Jack Coors, Cynthia Grow & Tracey Berry 6) Lee Oberlag with Harry Santen 7) Sean Balnes, Kathryn, & Shannon Balnes 8) Jeane Elliott with Jean Robert 9) Macy & Aaron Hanseh 10) name

A pArtner, when you need it the most. , . It also comes with a long to-do list that can seem As & Advisors ocess. Our professionals ar

Surviving Spouse Services MCM offers a variety of surviving spouse services tailored to meet your individual needs.

• Surviving spouse consulting • Management of family checkbook • Records maintenance for tax preparation • Document & record management • Tax record preparation for domestic employees • Tax consulting • Budget & financial statement preparation • Estate & gift planning • Family consulting & education • Advisor meetings & preparation • Succession planning & consulting • Charitable gift planning

Learn more about how mCm can be your partner. Contact us today. Kathy mitts, CpA Partner Kathy.Mitts@mcmcpa.com

MCM OFFiCES in 3 STATES

CinCinnATi OFFiCES

Downtown & Hyde Park

www.mcmcpa.com | 513.579.1717

Expert guidance, beyond the bottom line.

Photography by Tony Bailey

1 2

4 3

CINCINNATI CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL MC CELESTIAL BALL

More than 1,200 guests attended this year’s Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Celestial Ball. More than $1 million dollars was raised to benefit the Cincinnati Children’s initiatives to improve the health of kids in the tri-state community. Special honoree for the event was Toyota Motor North America who was recognized for their partnership and support in creating healthier, safer futures for kids everywhere.

10 9

112 slmag.net

1) Heather & Jason Kahlig, Jessica & Brandon Painter, with Melissa & Kyle Hughes 2) Raye Allen, Heidi Jack, Steve Kenat, with Mary Ellen & Tom Cody 3) Jann Greenberg, Lisa & Lou Muglia, & Jim Greenberg 4) Karen Polan, Carri Chandler, Mike Goss, & Mike Fisher 5) Brandon & Kelly Janszenwith Kathy & Mark Erion 6) Scott & Lauri Robertson with Dena & John Cranley 7) Carolyn & Dan Roark 8) Bob & Colleen Coppola 9) Anthony & Lauren Mascia 10) David & Cathy Reeve

You can expect more. Using a unique planning approach that focuses on a deep understanding of your goals, we provide tailored wealth management to help you achieve your dreams. Through careful listening, we identify your priorities to understand whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s important to you. Your needs will always be at the forefront of our wealth management process, and your financial goals are central as we curate your optimal plan. 513.361.7929 | blog.fortwashington.com