{Cincinnati’s Finest}
slmag.net
Jan/Feb 2021
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If you can dream it, we can make it.
O
nce upon a time, in the year eighteen hundred and ninety six, a young man named Richter & three brothers named Phillips shared a dream. They wanted to spread the joy of thoughtful gift-giving through sentimental items such as silver giftware & fine jewelry. The brothers & Richter filled up large, leather strapped trunks meticulously packed with precious, sparkling gifts of joy. The Richter & Phillips Co. salesmen would travel door to door toting their gifts while Richter & the Phillips brothers opened a tiny showroom in downtown, Cincinnati. With the company’s great success, the brothers & Richter embraced a new shopping endeavor - nationwide mail order catalogs. It was so exciting to receive the Richter & Phillips Co. catalog in the mail. Children & adults alike would carefully curate their perfect wish-list circling purses, trophies, clocks, electrical appliances, sporting goods, musical instruments, dolls & toys, & more! The art of thoughtful gift giving was a passionate dream brought to life for the four men and for forty long years, Richter & the Phillips brothers worked hard to keep the company strong. In 1930, however, the Great Depression spread across the country. The state of America left little money in the pockets of families and gift giving was put to the wayside, forcing Richter & the Phillips brothers to file bankruptcy.
But, then one diamond salesman changed it all... With little in his pocket, diamond salesman, Frederick W. Fehr, took his loose diamond collection to the 2nd National Bank. There, they loaned him the money to buy the Richter & Phillips Co. and keep its doors open. Over the next few years, Frederick was able to fully purchase the company from remaining stockholders, officially making The Richter & Phillips Co. the new Fehr family dream. Ever since, the shop has been with the Fehr family, here in Cincinnati, for four generations. Now known as Richter & Phillips Jewelers, the shop offers the city’s most luxurious stop for thoughtful gift giving and specializing in what kept Richter & Phillip’s dream alive - diamonds. We are in the business of making dreams come true. From tending to watch repairs for your precious family heirloom to custom designing the perfect diamond engagement ring, we are here for you, Cincinnati. Because in return, you keep our dream thriving.
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{Cincinnati’s Finest}
Jan/Feb 2021
slmag.net
22 48 NewYear, New You
Cocktail made with Modica’s Cucumber Aloe Margarita. Photo by Jessica Ebelhar
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Jan/Feb 2021
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on the cover: BIEN HECHO PAMPAS O’Bryonville’s new gastro-gem embarks on a delicious Argentine culinary pilgrimage. Photo by Rachel Lutz of Andrew Kung Photography
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Bien Hecho Pampas
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Mood Indigo
38
All Dressed Up and Ready to Go
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Bibliotaph... Publisher’s Picks
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Better Together
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New Year, New You
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Of Note... Cozy at Home
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Ciao Bella
54
All the Right Angles
56
Distilled History
58
Quiet Riot
60
Dreaming in Paradise
66
Bringing Home Everything But the House
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Sophisticated Spaces: Luxurious Living Rooms
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The Zooming Goose
90
Smiling for Erica: Local Sophomore Devotes free time to Support EJH Foundation
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Bethany House Services
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Jan/Feb 2021
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Best of Sophisticated Society 2020
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CCM Moveable Feast
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Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra Gala
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MS Dinner of Champions
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SCPA Gala
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Lindner Center of HOPE’s: Touchdown for HOPE
99 2020
Stepping Stones Open Your Heart Gala
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The Dragonfly Gala
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American Heart Association Heart Ball
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Red and Black Blast
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LLS 2020 Students of the Year Grand Finale
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Ohio Valley Voices Gala
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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 ______________________________________________
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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
From the Editor-In-Chief
We are so excited to kick off 2021 with a new issue of lifestyle, travel, food, and décor! We cannot say it enough, but 2020 was certainly not the year we all thought it started out as. As homage to some of the philanthropic events we missed, our society section is comprised of a few events that we loved and hope can take place in 2021, and offer a foreshadowing of upcoming events we are looking forward to this year. As you know, one of my biggest passions is for food and wine. COVID has not been helpful for the restaurant industry, so we were so excited to hear that restaurateur Juan Imeroni was opening up Pampas in O’Bryanville with chef Patrick Bowling behind the kitchen. A new local favorite of mine already, chef Bowling does a phenomenal job of crafting delicious dishes with subtle South American influences. Favorites from the menu and discussed further within were the pork with cauliflower au gratin, octopus, pear salad, charcuterie, and wagyu burger, although the whole menu is worth a try. We hope to come out of the pandemic soon to get back to our regular date night dinners out routine at Pampas and all of our local favorites. Since we have been spending more time inside, I thought it was pertinent to highlight some of our really special home features of the past. While the focus and images are on the ‘living room’, all of the homes featured were highlighted in detail in past issues found via our archives from our slmag.net website. As always, we have great travel, fashion, and motoring columns to inspire and invigorate you. We hope this issue is inspiration to encourage you into a new year and a new start!
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Chef Patrick Bowling
BIEN HECHO PAMPAS O’Bryonville’s new gastro-gem embarks on a delicious Argentine culinary pilgrimage Written by Sheree Allgood / Photography by Rachel Lutz of Andrew Kung Photography It is encouraging to note that there are tremendously brave investors and fearless chefs with the chutzpah and vision to embrace the ever-elusive dream of transcendence in today’s tentative dining climate. Even in the most prosperous of times, the prospect of opening a new restaurant can be daunting. But the inspired dream of owner Juan Imeroni and Chef Patrick Bowling has merged into the stunningly creative confines of Pampas. This new restaurant is a delight for all the senses and chockful of warm hospitality and sublimely delicious food. Pampas is pure magic! Be assured that it is truly a gastro-gem, much more elevated from the realm of the mere gastropub. The dining experience is distinctly elegant, comfortable, and eclectic. Some elements of the décor within this circa 1862 farmhouse are natural holdovers from past establishments. I have it on good authority that this establishment is, in fact, the original building of the O’Bryonville neighborhood. The cozy fireplace in the bar is a charming spot for a cockle-warming libation on a cold night. There are nooks and quiet romantic corners, more intimate spaces up a broad staircase, as well as a two-sided bar for those more sociable types. The restaurant’s owner, Juan Imeroni, brought influences from his childhood visits in the Pampas of Argentina to both 22 slmag.net
the restaurant’s style and its outstanding flavor. While there are many whimsical remembrances of his time at his grandfather’s farm in the Pampas (a charming picture of his stunning mother is proudly displayed in one booth), there are also romantic flashes from Mr. Imeroni’s adopted city, including an impressive wrought iron chandelier from the old Emery Theater. It is a decidedly rustic look, expertly curated without being garish or kitschy. I imagine it to be very much like a farm kitchen or pequeno restaurante filled with a posse of famished gauchos home from the cattle drive. And assuredly, the most urbane gauchos of the Argentine plain or the sophisticated damas elegantes of Buenos Aries would want only Chef Patrick Bowling to dazzle them with their favorite repasts, nuanced and expertly prepared. Chef Bowling is a tour de force in the kitchen, warm and generous with his time, talent, and energy. He is fully invested in every functional aspect of the Pampas dining experience and has gathered around himself an amazing staff, from servers to sous and bartenders. Cincinnati should be very proud to have given rise to this talented cook from the West Side, who apprenticed, as he puts in, “in the school of hard knocks.”
Whimsical antiques decorate the dining areas
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A graduate of La Salle High School, Bowling grew up watching his grandmother cook. When he was working as a server at one point in college, he stepped in when a cook was a no-show. From that point on, he knew his destiny. His resume includes the award-winning Blackberry Farm in Tennessee’s Smoky Mountains, and most recently, Jean Robert de Cavel’s Restaurant L in downtown Cincinnati. Chef Bowling’s menu is positively inspirational. Much like the U.S., Argentina’s cuisine evokes a tapestry of countries and immigrant influences, with an abundance of European and Mediterranean essences. Chef can infuse the dishes at Pampas with an almost Provençal eye while adding a dash of whimsy via southern U.S. touches. While many might think Argentinian food is hot-spicy, it is most delicately flavored to enhance all the
nuances of each dish. Chef has designed a meticulously crafted menu that is refined to capture the very essence of this fabulous dining experience. The house cocktails are exquisite and inspired by some of Argentina’s traditional libations. By far the most traditional drink is the Fernet Y Coca, paring the Italian digestif with a good ol’ bottle of Coke. The concoction is so popular in Argentina that 75% of the world’s Fernet is consumed there. Several signature cocktails give a nod and a wink to the Italian influence on the country’s tastes. Cocchi Limone uses the blanc aperitif Cocchi, with a house-honey cordial and cane sugar lemon-lime soda. The Pampas Aperol Spritz is a beautifully composed drink fusing Aperol with passionfruit simple syrup.
Pear Salad: Arugula, Jamon, Whipped Goat Cheese, Spiced Pecans, Preserved Lemon Vinaigrette
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Mussels: Boquerones, Bacon, Chili Flake, White Wine, Cream, Basil, Grilled Bread
Specialty Libations: Aperol Spritz, Gaucho Del Camino, Field Day
Intimate dining setting
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Main Bar Space on the first floor dining area
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Lamb: Lamb Shank, Merguez, Cannelloni Beans, Hazelnut, Braised Carrots, Charred Fennel, Pickled Cabbage Slaw
Aspirational Argentine send-ups include the El Gaucho Del Camino with rye whisky, Ancho Reyes Chili Liqueur, a charred orange demerara, and fresh lime; a whoop whoop of an Oldfashioned, wreathed with a hint of heat. The Argentine G&T uses Principe De Los Apostoles Mate Gin with a rich botanical base teasing the tang of red grapefruit juice and tonic for a delightful combination. The Clerico was wonderfully refreshing and very easy sipping for sure, with Torrontes Wine with Apricot Liqueur, Triple Sec, and rum-soaked pears and apples. The beer and wine list are perfectly tuned, with well-curated selections from the world’s great wine regions. A stellar Malbec is a great pairing with the Pampas menu, and I highly recommend the gorgeous Humberto Canale 2017. Chef Bowling has divided the menu into three distinct columns, which indicate how to proceed with ordering. Get Ready are the starters/sharables which directly chaperone diners into a truly outstanding culinary experience. This section’s offerings include octopus with chorizo, grilled onion, Marcona almonds, 28 slmag.net
romesco, piquillo pepper, serrano, and cilantro. The Baby Corn Elotes are phenomenal, a perfect dish of amped-up Mexican street corn. Baby corn is lightly nestled in tangy limon crema with cilantro, chili, and queso fresco. Order one for the table and then one for yourself. Another sharable are the mussels, which are seasoned ever so slightly with briny boquerones, bacon, chili flakes, a splash of white wine, cream, basil, and served with a chargrilled bread to sop up all the delicious broth. One of the most exciting offerings at Pampas is the charcuterie, a magnificent array of some of the most tempting and delicious meats and accompaniments imaginable, most homemade or purveyed from the area’s most highly respected vendors, and lovingly curated by Chef Bowling. The chef is known for his pickling expertise, offering savory jams and marmalades, and has perfected this art for use on his meat and cheese trays. He makes unbelievable pâtés, a smooth creamy liver pâté is resplendent in its depth, and a rustic potted pate reminiscent of a ploughman’s lunch. This is the place to go for a perfectly assembled charcuterie.
The Gaucho Experience: 32oz Dry-Aged Ribeye
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Chocolate Tort: Caramel, Olive Oil, Seasalt, Fresh Berries
The second menu column, Settle In, features delicious lighter fare, soup, and salads that shouldn’t be overlooked. Especially tasty are the Pear Salad, with peppery arugula, crispy Jamón, creamy whipped goat cheese, spicy pecans, rounded up with a preserved lemon vinaigrette. The Beet Salad is a colorful mélange of spinach, grilled onion, rosemary-smoked grapes, queso fresco, dressed in a spiced vinaigrette. While ordering, under no circumstances should you miss the fried cauliflower gratin. This dish will marry beautifully with any of the entrees, or on its own with soup or salad. The menu’s third column, Go, is where you’ll find the entrees, and they are magnificent. The Lamb Shank is a hearty piece of meat, carefully and wonderfully seared with a fabulous crust and fork-tender center, and nestled on a bed of housemade merguez, cannelloni beans, hazelnut, perfectly braised carrots, charred fennel, with an in-house pickled cabbage slaw. The Pork Shoulder is also a heavenly cut of meat, lovingly prepared and beautifully presented. Accompanying this tender, savory dish is outrageously delicious fried cauliflower, pickled egg, capers, chestnut, and apple fennel slaw. Argentina is noted for its outstanding beef, and there is no shortage of this tantalizing fare at Pampas. The three main beef 30 slmag.net
offerings include a stunningly prepared skirt steak served with mushrooms, chimichurri, garlic, watercress, and in-house steak sauce. This beautiful cut of meat is so fork-tender that a knife is unnecessary. Another beef dish is the superb Gaucho Experience. This meal is for two guests and features a 32-ounce dry-aged ribeye with two sides and two salads. The final beef feature is, by far, the most outstanding burger going in Cincinnati. This beauty is a Wagyu patty, with perfectly grilled onion, bacon, provolone, bibb lettuce, Chef Bowling’s own pickled tomato, an aioli of smoked garlic and onion, and tangy mostarda on a perfectly toasted bun. Razor-thin homemade chips accompany this exquisite sandwich. It is, quite simply, outstanding. Finally, to round out these splendid entrees is a revolving selection of desserts, expertly created by Lola’s Coffee Shop. A homemade chocolate olive oil tart, with a caramel and sea salt filling, was one of the most outstanding desserts I’ve enjoyed in recent memory and a perfect end to a perfect meal. It was the kind of meal where you smack your lips all the way home. Everything about Pampas is sheer delight. sl Pampas is located at 2036 Madison Road, Cincinnati, OH 45208. Hours are currently Thursday – Sunday 4 pm – 9:45 pm (last seating at 8:30 pm). Pampas@ IgniteEntertainmentCincy.com / (513) 321-0863
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Grand Reflecting Pond
MOOD INDIGO
The best kind of blues are found at Amanyara on Turks & Caicos Written by Bridget Williams
Placing my paddleboard atop water no choppier than a country club swimming pool during adult swim, I rose from my knees to stand, moved my feet apart to steady myself and pierced the surface with my paddle. In short order, my breathing was keeping time with the rhythmic strokes as I left behind the dozen or so guests spread out on a remote stretch of beach. With the water beneath me in this protected marine sanctuary as clear as the blue skies above, I watched colorful fish dart about curious structures designed to stimulate coral reef growth. Rounding a bend, and with no one in sight, I paddled to shore and sat at the water's edge, allowing the gentle waves to lap at my toes. As I savored the quiet and calm, I pondered the difference between this moment of blissful solitude the months of baneful isolation so many have experienced. With 120-acres surrounded by nearly 900-acres of nationallyprotected land above and below sea level, Amanyara on Turks & Caicos offers a blissful cocoon of relaxation and rejuvenation- an
antidote to isolation despite its remoteness. Reached via a five-mile unpaved road and positioned on a promontory on the western shore of Providenciales, the resort looks out over the reefs of Northwest Point Marine National Park. Water, either the sound or sight of it, is omnipresent. Amanyara's thirty-eight guest pavilions, which underwent a full refurbishment since July, and a collection of sprawling villas are cloaked in native tropical verdure. The foliage is manicured just enough but not too much to ensure privacy while providing unobstructed sightlines to either the ocean or a water feature. The property started 15 years ago as a collection of twoto six-bedroom villas; today, 18 of the 20 villas are available to rent and include a dedicated full-time butler and private chef. Designed in a similar fashion to the pavilions, the bedroom units surround a communal gathering space and are artfully separate with a beguiling blend of water features and pathways.
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Yara Bar
Dinner in a private cove. Restaurant overlook the Grand Reflecting Pond
Arriving on my birthday, I nearly shrieked with glee as we approached the glass-walled Balinese-inspired bungalow that would be our home for five days. A rough-cut path in the rocky promontory comprised of pitted limestone and lava led to the bungalow's best feature, a private horseshoe-shaped cove with a powdery sand beach and intoxicating ombrĂŠ blue water. It was a spot we returned to again and again for a private sunset cocktail and canapĂŠ, yoga, a refreshing swim, and quiet contemplation. As tempting as it was to camp out in our private cove, Amanyara offers a comprehensive lineup of activities and food and beverage options that appeal to all age groups. In fact, we didn't feel the urge to explore off property for the duration of our stay. "We realize that architecture alone isn't enough of a draw, so we cater to the diverse interests of guests, including fitness enthusiasts," explained Garrett Donovan, Resort Manager. 34 slmag.net
One would have to try really hard to take a bad photograph at Amanyara. The heart of the resort is the main bar, where the conical roof of the structure, which is surrounded by water features, is Amanyara's tallest feature. Secluded spots at the water's edge are carved out for private dining experiences, which we enjoyed for my birthday dinner. Chef David Pooley is at the food and beverage program's helm, which employs a global perspective throughout its restaurant and private dining programs. With staff hailing from 19 countries, there is a great deal of culinary collaboration. "We can pool talent to fulfill our guests' culinary whims," said Pooley. An avid runner, the affable chef, who splits his time between the island and Modena, Italy, where his wife is from, knows the trails in the national park surrounding the resort by heart and often welcomes guests to join him for his morning jaunts.
Bedroom in the Tranquility Villa
With up to six bedrooms, 18 of the 20 villas on property are available for rent.
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Oceanfront guest pavilions
The resort provides direct access to snorkeling in the Northwest Point Marine National Park.
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Treatment pavilion at the spa
Sunset dinner next to the main swimming pool.
At the spa, four self-contained treatment rooms are outfitted for two with shower and changing facilities. The stand-alone structures, situated around a pond with a seamlessly integrated pool, create a dreamy scene. Teena, the diminutive therapist who delivered my 60-minute massage, had titanium hands that I am quite sure could crush a coconut. The unique combination of deep tissue massage and stretching left me feeling like a rag doll in a good way. Amanyara boasts a total of eight acres of open beachfront. In contrast to the Turks & Caicos' bustling Grace Bay Beach, you won't find jet skis or parasailing in this protected area. Attending to guests is a team of beach attendants ready to provide a cold drink or a boat ride to the nearby reef for guided snorkeling. After seeing the occasional dive boat just offshore, I was surprised to learn that the Grand Turks Wall was the attraction. Here, the crystal waters quickly turn dark as the ocean floor drops by nearly 7,000 feet. It was a fun quick stop on our guided snorkeling trip, but I have to admit I was on guard as I expected some ominous deep sea creature to emerge from the depths. Facilities on property facilitate pursuits ranging from lacrosse to tennis. My favorite was the dedicated boxing gym, which came about when Michael Perez Liriano, a former pro
An aerial view of the spa.
boxer from the Dominican Republic joined the staff. Liriano is an excellent coach, teaching fundamentals and delivering a challenging workout that makes you want to come back for more the next day. Also extremely patient and positive is tennis pro Rue Galero, a certified Level 1 TELOSTM Tennis Professional. The simple approach of this teaching method significantly elevated my typically terrible court performance. Daily yoga is offered at the spa or in the privacy of your bungalow or villa. Those looking for a more traditional way to work up a sweat can visit a tricked-out workout facility offering everything from TRX to treadmills. Boredom, due to a lack of options, is outside the realm of possibility here. While it may seem strange to travel to a remote place following months of isolation, the solace offered by Amanyara is soul-stirring, wholly restful, and just the right restart to tackle whatever else comes down the pipeline. Accommodations at Amanyara from $2,300/night in high season. For more information or reservations, visit aman.com/resorts/amanyara. sl Editor's Note: As of press time, Turks and Caicos Government require that guests obtain travel pre-authorization via the TCI Assured Portal, which includes a negative COVID-19 RT-PCR nasal swab test, within five days of their scheduled arrival date for all guests over 10 years of age. You can find more information at visittci.com.
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Ivan Young S/S 2021
ALL DRESSED UP AND READY TO GO
New collection imagery from designers Ivan Young and Bella Belle are just the eye candy we need to break up the monotony of sweatpants and t-shirts and keep alive the dream of dressing up to greet a reopened world.
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Model wearing the Rita heel from Bella Belle ($295, bellabelleshoes.com). Photo by Laura Gordon Photography.
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Ivan Young
Photos courtesy of Ivan Young A native of Guangzhou, China, Ivan Young says his interest in fashion began at an early age, and he grew up watching his mother and grandmother make clothes for the family to wear. He created his first garment as part of his university studies and went on to found his eponymous company in 2017, with an initial mulberry silk collection focused on essential pieces with clean silhouettes. Today, his bi-annual collections encompass both evening and ready-to-wear. "It's the best of both worlds," he explained. "Eveningwear offers a chance to get all dressed up and indulge in something luxurious, while RTW makes little pieces of that luxury more easily accessible." The designer describes his client as someone aware of her feminine power as well as the importance of self-love. "A lovingly made garment is really something that I believe every woman should allow herself to experience," said Young. Ivanyoung.com
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Bella Belle
Photos by Laura Gordon Photography Founded by a pair of best friends who met in high school, the brand is renowned for its embellished shoes, emphasizing bridal—and even more beloved for its focus on comfort. After commiserating about the difficulty to find flats that are dainty and not frumpy and elegant heels that weren't painful to wear, the pair aspired to lend a handmade aspect to their looks. Counter to fast fashion principles, Bella Belle's designers are inspired by elements that evoke emotions and senses, carving out a niche with a distinctive handmade approach where each beading and embroidery is handsewn and hand-cut. Their 3D floral embroidery technique is inspired by Japan's Sakura blooms, while patterns in crystal beadwork call to mind the bubbles in a glass of Champagne. This level of embellishment is inimitable by factory machines; they are more fluid, artistic, and exquisite as one might expect from a luxury brand. Bellabelleshoes.com
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Bibliotaph... Publisher's Picks
Compiled by Victoria Chase
Dave Mahanes, Publisher, Sophisticated Living Nashville: I plan on reading The Last Days of John Lennon by James Patterson. Ever since my Dad brought home Sgt Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band when it came out, the Beatles have been my favorite recording artist. I started playing guitar six months after that and still do. I’ve read many books about the Beatles, but never one that focused on the last tragic days of John Lennon. I remember learning of his death that night in Cambridge Inn at Duke. It’s a must read from me; James Patterson’s not too shabby either. James Patterson—The Last Days of John Lennon—paperback, Little, Brown and Company Melissa Mahanes, Editor-In-Chief, Sophisticated Living Nashville: Ina Garten’s 12th Cookbook does not disappoint! I am enjoying making some new dishes-comfort food is key this time of year! Ina Garten—Modern Comfort Food— hardcover, 256 pages, Ten Speed Press. I am a huge fan of the Royals and their fashion choices! Especially fun to peruse since we are binge-watching the new season of The Crown. Elizabeth Holmes—HRH: So Many Thoughts on Royal Style— hardcover, 336 pages, Celadon Books
Bridget Williams, Sophisticated Living Co-founder: Timely in this era of social justice awareness, I selected this book because it appeals to my interests in historical fiction and Native American history. Today, Simon Girty might be viewed as a defender of Native Americans, but in early American he was as reviled as Benedict Arnold. Working between the blurred lines of truth and legend, author Richard Taylor relies on passages from diaries, travel accounts and biographies to tell the story of this complex historical figure. Richard Taylor—Girty— 198 pages, University Press of Kentucky (kentuckypress.com)
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bib 'li' o 'taph, [bib-lee-uhtaf, -tahf ]: a person who caches or hoards books Amelia Jeffers, Publisher, Sophisticated Living Columbus: Working internationally as an auctioneer and appraiser for 20+ years, I know many of the characters and objects referenced in Objects of Desire. Re-reading it has the effect of attending a family reunion - reminding me of people and events who are no longer active. It is a great read for anyone interested in understanding the high stakes world of art and antiques. Thatcher Freund—Objects of Desire: The Lives of Antiques and Those Who Pursue Them— Paperback, 304 pages, Penguin Books Jeffrey Cohen, Editor-In-Chief, Sophisticated Living Indianapolis: I just started this memoir, which tells the story of the beloved house in New Orleans where the author and her family lived for decades. This is not an account of affluence, rather it’s the story of a family of 11 siblings and their single mother, who managed, at the age of 19, to buy a home in one of the city’s poorest neighborhoods that became a haven for them, despite the inevitable grind and decay of poverty, until Hurricane Katrina destroyed all that they held dear. Hailed as a masterpiece of history, politics, sociology and memory, it’s a must-read for me, as a New Orleans native. Sarah M. Broom—The Yellow House: A Memoir— hardcover, 304 pages, Grove Press
Craig Kaminer, Publisher, Sophisticated Living St. Louis: Every now and then a book comes along which combines my general interest in business, reminders of my own career, my personal life experiences and one of the great brands I admire most. Leonard Lauder is one of the great stories of the beauty business and My Life in Beauty offers keen insights on honing ambition, leveraging success, learning from mistakes, and growing an international company in an age of economic turbulence, uncertainty, and fierce competition. This is a great read by the fire, on a beach or wherever you will take refuge this winter. Leonard Lauder—The Company I Keep: My Life In Beauty —hardcover, 432 pages, Harper Business
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BETTER TOGETHER Fine jewelry pieces that play well with others Compiled by Bridget Williams
Clockwise from top left: Miro necklace with reclaimed white diamond from Meadowlark Jewelry ($1,117; meadowlarkjewelry.com). Vessel pendant from Pamela Love ($240; pamelalove.com). Jade Trau Loop necklace ($3,650; jadetrau.com). Medium Marianne necklace from Brent Neale (price upon request; brentneale.com). John Hardy Asli Classic Chain Link Transformable Necklace ($1,695; johnhardy.com). Bea Bongiasca Baby Vine chain bracelet with Corundum ($652; beabongiasca.com).
Clockwise from top left: Case Joaillier Joujou diamond C band ($600; cayejoaillier. com). DRU Stacking Square ring with diamonds (from $695; drujewelry.com). Recycled gold and platinum bands with ethically sourced diamonds from Cathy Waterman (cathywaterman.com). Diamond enamel stack rings from EF Collection (from $556; efcollection.com). Diamond eternity bands from Ashley Zhang (from $4,600; ashleyzhangjewelry.com).
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Bracelet, rings and necklaces from Uncommon James (uncommonjames.com)
Pieces from the La Selva collection by Emily P. Wheeler (emilypwheeler.com)
Clockwise from top left: Sorellina Hand On Paper Clip Chain ($8,350; sorellinanyc.com). White diamond and ruby, sapphire, and emerald Bolo bracelets from Graziela ($3,990/ each; grazielagems.com). Corda Shaker bracelet with black diamonds and rubies from Moritz Glik ($9,900; moritzglik.com). Continuty Binary Duo Color bracelet ($9,995) and Equality diamond bracelet ($6,295) from Alessa Jewelry (alessa.jewelry/).
Clockwise from top left: Grace Lee blue sapphire Ribbon ring ($1,288; gracelee.com). Emerald and diamond Eternity ring set from Neelu Los Angeles ($3,000/set; neelufinejewels.com). 18K Astrid ring from Temple St. Clair is designed to be worn on the finger or as a pendant ($4,900; templestclair. com). All in LOVE! ring from Samantha Tea ($1,800; samanthatea.com).
Rings and bracelets from Neelu Los Angeles (neelufinejewels.com)
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NEW YEAR NEW YOU Non-traditional engagement rings for saying ‘I do!’ differently
NEW YEAR, NEW YOU Compiled by Bridget Williams
Compiled by Bridget Williams
Synergies, sustainability and superfoods are a few of the buzzwords being bantered about in the realm of self-care. From rare flowers to rowing, we’ve rounded up a few products that offer the promise of putting our best face and physique forward in 2021.
Clockwise from top left: Kickstart your skincare regimen in the shower with MBR's Enzyme Cleansing Booster, a a fruit enzyme powder and exfoliant that dissolves impurities, removes dead skin cells and excess oils ($227; mbrskincare.com). Used as a spot treatment or over the entire face, Vicki Morav Z Bigatti Restoration Deep Repair Serum is a concentrated treatment of soy, botanical and marine extracts, vitamins and antioxidants formulated to improve skin clarity and diminish the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.rescues ($198; vickimorav.com). The key ingredient in KORRES Golden Krocus Hydra-Filler Plumping Cream the Krocus flower, which blossoms only once a year for two weeks in the northern part of Kozani, Greece. Once bloomed, the flower is then handpicked by the local villagers. ($76, Korres.com). Tammy Fender Celestial Rose Creme is a velvety balm with rose oil, Manuka honey, and other key ingredients to melt into the skin and provide rich nutritive benefits and create a barrier shielding the skin from environmental stressors ($145; tammyfender.com). This concentrated gel moisturizer features a unique blend of caviar, vitamins and vegetable stem cells to nourish and revitalize the skin. A hydrating complex of vitamins A and E, blended with natural extracts from apple and argan trees, sunflowers and caper fruits are quickly absorbed into the skin. Perfect for everyday use or as a 'no-rise' mask for a deep nourishing boost. Also great for men as an after-shave soothing treatment ($100; ripar.us). New to the United States and founded by Pietro Simone, his eponymous skincare collections are world-renowned for combining a scientific and natural approach to expertly manage and combat the aging process. Offering two lines, the Essential Collection and the Prestige Collection, all of Pietro's effective skincare products incorporate his exclusive Italian Bella Complex that features natural healing ingredients sourced directly from Italy. Designed for everyday use, Pietro's Essential Collection uses synergistic scientific formulas that encourage the skin to heal and excel (from $60; pietrosimone.com)
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Clockwise from top left: Featuring iLoop technology, the Moda One hairdryer senses hair moisture and adjusts heat and airflow accordingly, thus creating a faster & smarter hair drying experience ($299). Thirteen years and more than 500,000 R&D hours went into OPTE, the first precision skincare device of its kind. OPTE is a handheld inkjet serum printer with the power to reveal skin’s natural radiance by digitally scanning skin, analyzing complexions, and camouflaging hyperpigmentation on contact with Spot Optimizing Serum while fading dark spots over time ($599,opte.com). With a quiet and smooth patented drag mechanism, a library of workouts on waterways around the globe delivered via a 22” touchscreen display, and front-facing speakers, the Hydrow delivers a cardio and strength training workout that engages 86% of your muscles ($1,995; hydrow.com).
Modica is the world’s first superfood cocktail mix. Made with naturallysourced ingredients, each serving has no more than 35 calories, and every bottle makes at least 10 cocktails ($13.99/bottle; drinkmodica.com).
Clockwise from top left: Nora Kogan Elise ring with emerald-cut diamond in a matte satin gold setting ($5,225; norakogan.com). Picchiotti Classics Imperial Collection white gold, diamond, and ruby ring (price upon request; picchiotti.it/ENG). De Cosmi 18K yellow gold and rough diamond ring (price upon request; decosmi.com). Custom engagement ring by Harwell Godfrey (price upon request; harwellgodfrey.com). Emily Kuvin 14k diamond Three Dot ring ($1,870; emilykuvin.com). Jemma Wynne bespoke ring with baguette cut diamond (price upon request; jemmawynne.com). Fantazia by Aisha Baker in 18k yellow gold with diamonds and white quartz ($10,800; aishabaker.com). Anna Sheffeld Bea Three Stone ring with black diamond (from $25,300; annasheffield.com). Ascension Illusion diamond ring from Graziela ($7,500; grazielagems.com). Maya Gemstones Perfect Ring in yellow gold with 1ct Maya-cut diamond (price upon request; mayagemstones.com).
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Of Note... Cozy at Home
Compiled by Colin Dennis
This page, clockwise from top left: Missoni Home hooded bathrobe ($430; missoni.com). Fergus wool rug designed by Constance Frapolli for Ligne Roset (ligne-roset.com). Oshin cashmere cableknit throw ($853; cozelinen.com). Kona Cave velvet snuggle cave dog bed ($109; konacave.com). The Garden Room upholstered chair from Theodore Alexander ($2,151; theodorealexander.com). Maxalto Amoenus Soft armchair from B&B Italia (bebitalia.com). Eames Lounge Chair and Ottoman with Mohair Supreme upholstery from Herman Miller ($7,495; store.hermanmiller.com). Max armchair from Hommes Studio ($7,900; hommes.studio). Infinity wooden puzzle from Jonathan Adler ($30; jonathanadler.com).
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The Eigg bed from The Headboard Workshop ($1,800; theheadboardworkshop.co.uk)
Ethnicraft Tulum cushion ($268), Camel Alpone throw ($253), Dark Tulum cushion ($241) and Osso stool ($395; ethnicraft.com)
It takes 320 hours for a team of craftspeople to create each Hästens Vividus bed. The bed frame is made of redwood from the north of Sweden, while the mattress is made of layers of cotton, wool, mohair and horsehair, with a step stitching technique ($150,000; hastens.com)
RH Yeti sheepskin armchair in ivory (from $2,695; rh.com)
Steiff Classic 1909 teddy bear with growler ($229; steiffusa.com)
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A woodworker in the Acca Kappa factory.
CIAO BELLA
Mozzafiato introduces iconic Italian beauty brands to North American consumers. Written by Bridget Williams
Italian beauty seems to defy an expiration date, as Sophia Loren, Carla Bruni, Isabella Rossellini, Bianca Balti, and Monica Bellucci attest. While good genes certainly help, living la dolce vita is an all-encompassing ethos. Capitalizing on the Italian tradition of family heritage and craftsmanship related to beauty, Mozzafiato, an e-commerce platform that launched in November, is looking to reinvent American beauty for both men and women with made-in-Italy products ranging from ancient fragrances to leading-edge skincare innovations. If you're like me and miss traveling abroad, browsing the Brand Stories section of the 17 companies and more than 900 products presently represented on the Mozzafiato website allows the mind to wander through the wonders of Italy, imaging the sights, sounds, and scents of a country that holds a special place in many a heart. In these most uncomforting times, something is reassuring about getting an intimate look at the makers of products that are part of our daily beauty rituals. "In the same way that the Italian culture and lifestyle have created an enduring love for its design, fashion, food, wine, and automobiles, the world is ready to unlock its passion for Italian beauty," said Amy Parsons, CEO of Mozzafiato. "American consumers have proven their affinity for exploring multiple and diverse beauty brands in a single location. Mozzafiato transforms 52 slmag.net
that concept into a beautiful, emotional experience with this collection of truly authentic and unique Italian products." Among the storied brands represented include Acca Kappa, a fourth-generation family business located in the heart of Treviso. Founded in the late 1800s as a brush factory, the company was expropriated from the family during the First and Second World Wars. In each instance, the family managed to repurchase it following years of hard work. Today the brand, one of the oldest in Italy, offers fragrances and skincare products for men and women, in addition to their world-renowned hairbrushes and toothbrushes. Of the company's White Moss cologne, Elisa Gera, great-granddaughter of the company founder, says, "It reminds you of spring in Italy. Once you try it, you'll get addicted to it." Alongside long-standing companies are newcomers such as Storie Veneziane, founded in Venice by Sophie and Didier Guillon. Their exquisite perfumes are encased in equally refined vessels highlighted by a Murano glass mask and Venetian leatherwrapped caps that are functional works of art. To enhance the brand's multi-sensory appeal, Mozzafiato plans to open a series of immersive retail stores in more than 20 major markets across the United States and Canada. For more information, visit mozzafiato.com. sl
Gabriel Balestra, founder of Skin & Co. on the company’s truffle farm.
A portrait of Acca Kappa founder Herman Krull hangs above his greatgranddauter Elisa Gera, who currently runs the family business.
Blue Cobalto perfume by Storie Veneziane
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ALL THE RIGHT ANGLES Jewelry inspired by the beauty of geometry Compiled by Bridget Williams
Clockwise from top left: Limited-edition Pixels collar necklace from Carelle (carelle.com). Earrings, left to right, top to bottom: Circular Contrast earrings by Joana Salazar (joanasalazar. com). Mirror earrings from Melis Goral ($6,300; melisgoral.com). Pyramid earrings from Karma El Khalil (karmaelkhalil.com). Keynes hexagon diamond earrings from Walters Faith ($6,985; waltersfaith.com). One-of-a-kind Stephen Webster Vertigo Lost Horizon hoops (stephenwebster.com). Emily P. Wheeler X earrings ($12,000; emilypwheeler.com). Jared Lehr earrings (jaredlehr.com). Ara Vartanian emerald and diamond earrings (aravartanian.com).
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Clockwise from top left: Geoart Puzzle necklace from Kavant & Sharart (kavantandsharart.com). Aztec medallion from Terzihan’s Neutra Collection ($9,200; terzihan.com). Akila drape necklace from KORITE ($1,455; korite.com). VRAM Robo Kinetic ring (vramjewelry.com). Marrow Fine opal inlay ring ($4,000; marrowfine.com). Oxidized silver Ice ring from Elizabeth Garvin Fine ($1,040; elizabethgarvin.com). Grab n Go ring from NeverNot ($5,875: nevernot.co.uk). Akylon 44mm watch from MUSE Swiss Art Watches ($3,600; musewatches.com). The Alcazar bracelet from Aisha Baker (aishabaker.com). Pyramid Pop prehnite open ring from Luv My Jewelry ($239; luvmyjewelry.com). Sonya ring with pink enamel from MAYA ($3,800; mayagemstones.com).
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A farmer carrying his daughter in-between rows of agave.
DISTILLED HISTORY Mezcal, Mexico's native spirit, retains its artisanal roots Written by Chloe Gellar
As an ardent consumer of craft cocktails, I recall the rise of mezcal a few years ago, when the spirit was tapped (and some would argue pigeon-holed) to imbue a drink with a "smoky" flavor. And while mezcal and tequila are both distilled from agave, the former can display a broad range of flavor profiles, from bitter to bubble gum. Archaeologists have estimated that humans began utilizing the agave plant 11,000 years ago for clothing, tools, and medicine. For thousands of years, the indigenous tribes of Mexico made pulque, a milky white alcoholic beverage made from the agave plant's leaves or sap. Spaniards were introduced to pulque during the Spanish Conquest. Once the liquor they brought with them ran out, the Spanish used their knowledge of distilling (learned from the Moors) to experiment with agave and create something with a higher alcohol content. The culmination of their efforts became mezcal. The main difference between mezcal and tequila is that while mezcal can be made from nearly 50 species of the agave plant, tequila can only be made from Weber blue agave. Resembling a pineapple, the piĂąa, the rounded stem of the agave plant, is used to make mezcal. 56 slmag.net
Each agave plant takes a minimum of four years to mature, with some requiring as many as three decades. This slow-growing process is what imparts mezcal with complex flavors and aromas. The word mezcal is derived from the Nahuatl word mexcalli, which translates as "oven-cooked agave." Once harvested, the piĂąa is roasted, typically in underground pits, although some contemporary producers employ steam to mitigate smoky characteristics. As it cooks, the plant's fibers soften, and starches morph into sugar. In traditional distillation, a tahona, a giant stone wheel typically pulled by a donkey or mule, pulverizes the cooked plant. Today, this process has been made more efficient by some distillers through mechanization, though some craft producers employ a mallet and manpower to make the pulp. The pulp is fermented (with wild yeast in quality mezcals) and distilled, with some mezcals undergoing barrel aging. Much of what you need to know about a bottle of mezcal is right on the label. Drawing parallels with wine grapes and regions, bottles of mezcal list the variety or varieties of agave plants used, along with where they were grown. Mezcal was first recognized as an Appellation of Origin in 1994, but it did not become law until 2003. Just like a bottle of sparkling wine labeled Champagne must
In the traditional manufacture of mezcal, a giant stone wheel is used to pulverize the cooked agave to create a pulp.
be made in Champagne, France, mezcal must be made in one of nine Mexican states: Durango, Guanajuato, Guerrero, Michoacán, Oaxaca, Puebla, San Luis Potosí, Tamaulipas, and Zacatecas. Oaxaca is the largest producer. While mezcal is a centuries-old tradition in Mexico, its popularity in the United States can be traced back to the mid1990s, when Ron Cooper, a California native and founder of Del Maguey, starting importing single-village mezcal, and thereby creating a "single-village" designation for the spirit. Cooper's tireless efforts paid off in 2017 when Pernod-Ricard purchased a majority stake in Del Maguey. The rising popularity of Mexico's indigenous spirit in the U.S. is a boon for small communities' economies where family producers have been working for generations. A native of Oaxaca, Francisco Javier Perez Cruz saw firsthand the backbreaking work and hardscrabble existence of families making mezcal. Elected president of the National Mezcal Council in 2004, he went on to found the Consejo Oaxaqueño del Maguey Mezcal (Oaxaca Mezcal Maguey Council). Today, his Banhez Cooperative (banhezmezcal. com), a conglomeration of 36 farming families, is now run by
his son Luis and ensures fair wages, consistent work, and a better quality of life. Banhez Espadin Barril Mezcal ($35/750ML), which boasts tropical notes of banana and pineapple to balance the smoke, won Double Gold and Best Mezcal at the 2017 San Francisco World Spirits Competition Rooted in the traditions of his native Durango, Gaston Martinez founded IZO (izomezcal.com) in the early 2000s. He sustainably operates the company, including utilizing solar power and independent water resources. Using hand-harvested agave grown on high-altitude desert mesas, his team at IZO works to uphold and preserve a proud legacy of partnership with the land and its resources. IZO's award-winning Mezcal Jovan ($65/750ML) is made with agave hearts slow-roasted with smoldering oak in lava-lined fire pits. Double distillation results in a subtly smoky flavor with a clean finish. For purists who want to savor the complexities of mezcal, the ideal way is to sip it neat from a copita, a small and wide clay bowl designed to emulate a jicara, Mother Nature's drinking vessel made from the dried fruit of the calabash tree. Perusing local Mexican craft markets, particularly in Oaxaca, you'll frequently spy these organic vessels transformed into works of art. Salud! sl
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QUIET RIOT
GMC looks to shake up the truck segment with extreme off-road capabilities offered by the electric 2022 HUMMER EV Written by Andre James / Photography courtesy of GMC “Our goal was to develop the most capable, factory off-road pickup on the market. We’re excited to show the world what 100-plus years of truck know-how can do when applied to EV power,” said Al Oppenheiser, chief engineer of the newly unveiled GMC HUMMER EV. “It will have the capability to go almost anywhere, on- or off-road, combining screaming performance with a nearly silent ride,” he added. This open-air, performance-oriented supertruck mates a GM-designed three-motor electric 4WD system with five advanced drive modes (four pre-configured and one driver-configurable), providing impressive capabilities. These include the ability to climb 60-percent grades in both forward and reverse, scaling 18-inch verticals, and fording water more than two-feet deep. For instance, in Terrain Mode, the driver can negotiate terrain at low speeds by simply modulating input on the accelerator pedals. Enabling this performance level is an all-new body frame structure that eliminates conventional frame rails and makes the battery pack a fundamental structural element of the chassis. Without the constraints of a traditional propulsion system and 58 slmag.net
standard drive axles, the system can channel more power to a single wheel. Launched and offered exclusively in the fully equipped Edition 1 model with an Extreme Off-Road Package, each supertruck will be identically appointed with a white exterior and Lunar Horizon interior. Part of the HUMMER EV’s highlight reel of significant off-road features are independent front and rear suspension; an electronically controlled, driverselectable front e-Locker that elevates traction capability by locking both front wheels so that they turn at the same speed; a rear virtual locker that can vary the amount of torque sent to each wheel to optimize traction off and on-road; underbody armor; 18-inch wheels with 35-inch-OD Goodyear Wrangler Territory MT tires; and, UltraVision front and rear underbody cameras offering 18 camera views in total. CrabWalk, a segment-exclusive feature, turns the rear wheels at the same angle as the front wheels (up to 10 degrees) at low speeds, allowing diagonal movement of the vehicle. The driver is kept apprised of conditions and the truck’s settings at any time via
The 2022 GMC HUMMER EV’s design visually communicates extreme capability, reinforced with rugged architectural details that are delivered with a premium, wellexecuted and appointed interior.
The GMC HUMMER EV is designed to be an off-road beast, with allnew features developed to conquer virtually any obstacle or terrain.
a host of off-road widgets displayed on the infotainment and driver information screens. The HUMMER EV’s Ultium Drive system delivers 1,000 horsepower, more than 11,500 lb-ft of torque, a three-second 0-60mph sprint, and a GM-estimated 350+ mile driving range on a full charge. HUMMER EV is the first GMC vehicle to offer variable Regen on Demand. This driver-controlled regenerative braking feature converts the kinetic energy of the truck’s forward momentum into electricity stored in the vehicle’s battery packs for maximizing the driving range. The system’s pure electric propulsion holds peak torque much longer, through a wider speed range (up to 40 mph) than even diesel engines, which is optimal for off-roading. The latest version of Super Cruise offers hands-free driving on more than 200,000 miles of enabled roads. Watts to Freedom is the HUMMER EV's launch control mode, a driver-selectable feature that channels the propulsion system’s power into acceleration bursts. As the vehicle readies itself for Watts to Freedom, a series of interior experiences convey the feeling of a “prelaunch countdown,” including interactive controls, unique sounds
The GMC HUMMER EV is driven by next-generation EV propulsion technology that enables unprecedented offroad capability, extraordinary on-road performance and an immersive driving experience.
through the Bose speakers, and screen animations. The vehicle also lowers two inches to prepare for the launch, utilizing a lower center of gravity. “It’s an amazing demonstration of just how fast 1,000 horsepower and 11,500 lb-ft of electric propulsion can move you — regardless of the vehicle’s size,” said Oppenheiser. “It’ll put a smile on your face every single time.” Performance aside, the Infinity Roof with removable Sky Panels that can stow in the “frunk” at the front of the vehicle grabs attention on or off-road. Inside the five-passenger cabin, an easyto-clean vinyl floor topped with recycled rubber inserts takes the place of conventional carpet. There are ample storage solutions throughout. Epic’s Unreal Gaming Engine powers a pair of large graphic displays. Some functions are activated by voice command, while others employ smartphone-like swiping and scrolling. The 2022 HUMMER EV Edition 1 will have a starting MSRP of $112,595. Production is scheduled to begin in late 2021 at GM’s Factory ZERO, Detroit-Hamtramck Assembly Center— a nearly 40-year-old facility repurposed and retooled with a $2.2-billion investment devoted to electric vehicle production. sl
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DREAMING IN PARADISE The newly opened Conrad Punta de Mita is Hilton’s first and only Conrad brand resort in Mexico. Written by Bridget Williams Mexico colors my dreams with a vibrancy I find nowhere else in the world. Each time I visit, symbols of ancient gods, the traditions of its indigenous people, the food, and the landscape—from bustling cities to the mystery of mountain peaks cloaked in seemingly impenetrable jungle—come to life shortly after my head hits the pillow. My most recent stay, this time at the newly opened Conrad Punta de Mita in the Riviera Nayarit, was no exception. Located approximately 40 minutes from the international airport in Puerta Vallarta, the property sits within a lightly developed area that's part of the gated Litibu golf course community. Proof once again that you shouldn't judge a book by its cover, from the backside, the hulking main structure of the resort gives little indication of what lies inside. Once you pass the COVID protocols—bag, hand, and shoe sanitizing and a temperature check—you are invited to pass through a corridor framed with wood "ribs" that leads to a soaring lobby with views to a verdant lawn, a trio of swimming pools and the breaking waves of the ocean. Once the feeling of being gobsmacked by the vista wears off, you begin to notice the complexity of the interior design, which pays subtle homage to the indigenous Huichol people and traditional Mexican craftsmanship in a handmade-modern way. The Conrad Punta de Mita is the first full-service Conrad brand resort in Mexico. Each of the 324 guest rooms, spread out over the multi-story arc-shaped main building, and nine beachfront casas, 60 slmag.net
each with 12-15 rooms and suites, boast views of the Pacific Ocean. Request Superior King Oceanfront suite 1436, or similar, for views that stretch from the ocean and across a wide swath of mangrove forest to the emerald Sierra Madre Mountains. Spacious guest rooms continue the theme established in the lobby of mixing traditional aspects with clean-lines. Inside my ocean-front casa room, I admired the cerused wood trim and doors in the bathroom, beauty dish-style LED-lighted mirrors over the double vanity, Huichol-inspired artwork over the coffee bar, and crisp bed linens with navy blue trim. A large balcony offered space for alfresco dining, as well as a comfy daybed that served as an open invitation to savor the sound of the strong surf. Rising before sunrise, you'll spy an army of attendants attending to the manicured grounds. Ideal for both family travel and couple's getaways, a large family pool includes a water slide (that this bid kid also loved) and a zero-entry splash pad for the littlest fish. An infinity activity pool fronts the ocean, and an adults-only pool with a champagne bar concept in the works, rounds out the aquatic options. Surrounding each pool are cabanas and loungers with some of the thickest and most comfortable cushions I've encountered. The wide, uncrowded beach has packed sand that's ideal for running or walking. While there is another hotel sharing the waterfront in not-too-close proximity on one side of the property, on the other, there's at least a mile of undeveloped waterfront to relish.
Grand Oceanfront Suite
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The adults-only swimming pool.
There are four restaurants and three bars on the property. During my visit, I experienced three of the four, with the fourth, Codex, a unique fine-dining concept reached via an elevated walkway over the mangroves, scheduled to open shortly. In developing the menu, including special moon phase dinners, Executive Chef Victor Palma sourced inspiration from an ancient Aztec book of herbs, ‘Codice’. As a lover of all things spicy and Mexican cuisine, I can attest that the food here is extraordinary. I quickly became known as the "spice girl," with staff presenting me with house-made hot sauces, even at breakfast to top my chile relleno. Mezquite offers toes-in-the-sand al fresco dining and is the best place to watch the sunset. With any luck, during the winter months, you may spy a humpback whale breaching in the distance. Here, the focus is on cuisine created over charcoal and fire, all the way down to the digestif, an activated charcoal popsicle. I washed mine down with a Carajillo, a bittersweet concoction of coffee and Licor 43, a Spanish liqueur. Available by reservation for up to 20 guests, the Zarandeado Experience allows diners to meet local fishermen from nearby La Cruz Huanacaxtle with the talented Chef Palma when they deliver their catch of the day to the beach in front of the hotel. They'll enjoy a la minute ceviches while the expertly grilled fish is prepared and then served with tostadas and a variety of savory accompaniments for DIY tacos on the beach. Serving three meals daily, the spring-like freshness of interior design elements at Árbol— green terracotta floor tiles, woven fiber 62 slmag.net
pendant light fixtures and a custom jungle mural painted on one wall, to name a few—mirror the beautifully presented regional Mexican dishes and American staples that are prepared with the freshest of ingredients. Located next to the family pool, Paleta serves kid-friendly favorites like wood-fired pizzas and more refined comfort food fare, including tuna poke and a flatbread topped with pork belly. Colibri Roasting Company is the go-to spot for a coffee fix and grab-and-go options for breakfast and lunch. One of the more unique offerings of the food and beverage program is the Agave Studio, where guests receive a Mexican history lesson in tandem with a guided tasting of spirits made with agave. Diving deep beyond tequila and mezcal, we took our tasting experience to the next level with a multi-course dinner than paired traditional Mexican cuisine with spirits from the familiar—tequila and mezcal—to the foreign—sotol and raicilla. We sampled each spirit from a handmade vessel designed to bring out the flavors of each. The evening ended with sipping sotol from a ceremonial-style cup. Once we learned that viper venom is added to its final distillation, we paid extra special attention to discerning the flavor profiles. My dreams were certainly extra spirited that evening! Even a room service dinner exceeded my expectations, allowing me to shamelessly attack a bowl of guacamole before noshing on flank steak tacos. I'd highly recommend adding a bag of the resort's highly addictive chili caramel corn to your order and save it (if you can!) for snacking on the return flight.
Mezquite Restaurant The Agave Studio
Executive Chef Victor Palma showing off the catch of the day. Anna Martinez leads agave spirit tastings in the Agave Studio.
An outdoor relaxation area at the spa.
Grilled fish served at lunch as part of the Zarandeado Experience.
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The spa's temazcal is the first on a Hilton property. During this unique experience, guests sit in a circle on the floor while heated volcanic rocks, hand-selected by a shaman, are placed in the center to create heat and steam central to a 4-door purification ritual.
While it may seem contrary to the idea of a relaxing vacation, I like to take advantage of the leisure time to focus on my fitness. The property aids this initiative with a large and well-equipped fitness room as part of the spa, allowing plenty of room to work out safely. A bonus is that I can reward my muscles for all of their hard work with some spa pampering. A state of sensory bliss ensues as soon as you step inside the 10,000 square foot Conrad Spa, courtesy of a custom scent that permeates every square inch. While the inside spaces are uniquely designed and appointed, it's the Garden of Edenmeets-Dr. Seuss wonderland of the outdoor spaces that's the real showstopper. An abundance of flora, selected for its attractiveness to hummingbirds, grows around (and eventually up and over) several stand-alone treatment rooms (aptly named hummingbird nest cocoons) and passageways, handwoven on site of local wood. Found in this area is dome-shaped temazcal, the first on a Hilton property. During this unique spa experience, guests sit in a circle on the floor while heated volcanic rocks, hand-selected by a 64 slmag.net
shaman, are placed in the center to create heat and steam central to a 4-door purification ritual. One could be perfectly content remaining on the property for the duration of their stay, but the nearby town of Sayulita is worth a visit. There are a few gems to be discovered amid the trinket and surf shops, including Evoke the Spirit, RevoluciĂłn Del SueĂąo, Buddha Gallery, and weekend markets full of locally produced handicrafts. Among the parade of humanity meandering the cobblestone streets are scraggly-haired surfers of all ages along with quite a few ex-pats, who, by the looks of their bare feet, unshaven faces, and deep tans, have fully embraced the beach bum lifestyle. After a few days in the Riviera Narayit at Conrad Punta de Mita, I understand their outlook and the area's appeal. Room rates at the Conrad Punta de Mita start at $279/ night. The resort is offering a "Stay Longer & Work from Paradise" package offering seven nights free when staying 14 days or more starting at $296/night with a fourteen-night minimum. For more information or reservations, visit conradpuntademita.com. sl
Founders Jacquie Denny and Brian Graves posted their first sale on EBTH.com in 2008. Today they are committed to developing the platform with integrity and passion. Photo Aaron Conway
BRINGING HOME EVERYTHING BUT THE HOUSE Where one-of-a-kind treasures find new lives, one auction at a time. Every home has a story, but perhaps more importantly, your home tells your story. Family heirlooms, your collections and treasures from travel, they all add up to something that is unique to you. From day one, when Jacquie Denny and Brian Graves founded Everything But The House (EBTH), a singular initiative has remained a constant north star: their passion for helping people and carrying on the legacy of their heirlooms. Today they have integrated this passion into a promise — an Uncommon Promise — that everything on the EBTH platform would be authenticated or validated, presented clearly and accurately, and handled with utmost care. It may seem obvious, but it’s important. Denny and Graves want to make sure that their clients know how much responsibility and care they hold for the items that enter their 66 slmag.net
warehouse doors. Every day they are interacting with homeowners, collectors, and dealers who choose EBTH because they trust that their items will be treated with respect and care. Beginning with their first live sale in 2008, their inspiration was to innovate the way people interacted with secondhand, vintage, and antique items. As a curated shopping destination, EBTH is the go-to source for creative home decorators, fearless DIYers, style mavens and collectors looking to bring personality and uniqueness into their daily lives. By giving items context — through thoughtfully researched descriptions and interactive content — shoppers are inspired to imagine how they can bring their own personality and style to the table in contemporary and trend-forward ways.
Living spaces styled with items from EBTH.com, a the go-to source for creative home decorators, fearless DIYers, style mavens and collectors looking to bring personality and uniqueness into their lives. Photo courtesy of EBTH
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Collection of vinyl records from EBTH including Chubby Checker, Ray Charles, Frank Sinatra, Pete Fountain and Al Hirt. Photo Aaron Conway
“This isn’t just ‘stuff,’ it’s living history,” Denny says, as she takes a walk through an organized maze of furniture, homewares and clothing racks inside EBTH’s Cincinnati warehouse. “Every item has a story, and some point it spoke to someone and they bought it. Now it’s someone else’s turn.” EBTH is the true Marketplace for the Uncommon, presenting an eclectic variety of highly sought-after objects to personalize the lifestyles for over 2 million registered bidders, while sharing the history behind the objects and the collections they originated from. In the past year EBTH has brought to auction landmark art pieces including works by renowned Cincinnati-based artists like Frank Duveneck and Robert S. Duncanson. Included in the descriptions of these works are these artists’ connection to Cincinnati. They are more than beautiful paintings; they are pieces of local history. EBTH’s 68 slmag.net
network of dealers, consignors, and shoppers spans the globe and in addition to items of local significance have brought to auction significant finds like a 1949 Dodge “Woody” Station Wagon — a rare find, originally produced for commercial use — and a vintage Cartier diamond ring that brought $72,000 last March. Whether you prefer the charm and aesthetic of a rustic, Englishinspired cottage or sleek, Scandinavian designs from the mid-20th Century, EBTH has the statement pieces and finishing touches to bring any look to life. Incorporating different eras into our homes and lives builds character and dimension that enhances your existing décor: a hand-knotted antique Persian rug that ties together a bohemian living room, a mid-century, Danish-designed pendant lamp that anchors an entryway, even pieces of architectural remnants from around the world can be found at your fingertips on EBTH.com.
Denny and Graves take a walk through EBTH’s Cincinnati Warehouse where a creative workforce of specialists and experts photograph, research and authenticate items before they are listed for auction. Photo Aaron Conway
Photo Aaron Conway
Photo Aaron Conway
Photo Aaron Conway
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Tablescape styled with accessories and other tableware from EBTH.com where shoppers can find items with history to fit every aspect of their lifestyle. Photo courtesy of EBTH
This past October Interior Designer and Owner of Aubrey Welsh Interiors, Aubrey Welsh partnered with EBTH to outfit a Victorian-inspired home for the 2020 Homearama showcase at Walworth Junction. During the home show, visitors were able to shop the items on display via the EBTH app and EBTH.com. “It was unlike any other Homearama experience,” Welsh says. “Being able to layer vintage, antique and secondhand items really made the home come to life.” The home itself, given the moniker The Royal Blue by builders Redknot Homes, was the perfect canvas for a design that merges antique and contemporary elements. The collaboration brought character and life to the home to make it feel like it was lived in. It was unexpected from a new build and ultimately a testament to the power of secondhand, vintage and antique items to seamlessly blend contemporary and timeless styles. The second floor — the heart of the home — includes a chef ’s kitchen and open floor plan to showcase incredible views of the Ohio River and Downtown. Aubrey Welsh took inspiration from the emerald green Rookwood-tiled fireplace for the main living area which featured a forest green, timeless Chippendale-style sofa and a pair of rounded, velvetupholstered and Mahogony tub chairs. Layered cow-hide rugs and a sturdy, William-IV style Walnut table grounded the dining area. Throughout the home were unique finds which pay homage to historical, local culture including portraits painted by Edmond James Fitzgerald, equestrian accents, and a print of the Roebling Bridge signed by James Billiter. Collectively, items sold on EBTH. 70 slmag.net
com from the Homearama, Aubrey Welsh Interiors collaboration brought more than $63,000 at auction. As proprietors of a full-service consignment resource and e-commerce marketplace, Jacquie Denny and Brian Graves have experienced firsthand the effects of the secondhand market boom. Rapidly, people’s perceptions of vintage, antiques and luxury preowned are shifting. Increasingly people are seeing the value of investing in the pre-owned market, something that has always existed but has never been so accessible. EBTH began as a journey to change how secondhand goods are discovered by elevating the estate sale and auction model. They have worked with families during life’s transitions and were able to pass along profits in the process. Today they are taking that model and amplifying it, connecting shoppers with their network of collectors, dealers and the wider world of consignment. As a holistic, auction-based marketplace, shoppers aren’t just adding items to cart, they’re calling the shots. Ultimately it’s the shopper’s connection to an item that determines its worth, and with an everchanging assortment of thousands of uniquely curated and carefully authenticated items they’re bound to find the thing — or things — that speaks to them. Beyond traditional E-commerce, EBTH is rolling out virtual previews, in-depth content that highlights trends and educates customers on the value of secondhand and innovative collaborations showing their commitment to being pioneers in the secondhand, vintage and antiques market. sl
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SOPHISTICATED SPACES: LUXURIOUS LIVING ROOMS
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While we have been spending more and more time inside the living room, we felt it especially fitting to look back on some of our most inspirational and favorite living rooms from the past 4 years. Find more inspiration from these home’s decors and more like them, at our cataloged issues found online at slmag.net.
From the November/December 2017 issue, this bright cozy living room featured large comfortable seating with blue accents in a bright and light filled setting.
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From the November/December 2020, our most recent issue, we fell in love with this contemporary living space which was open and inviting.
From the January/February 2020 issue, this living room had a more modern design scheme with lots of seating for entertaining.
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From the September/October 2016 issue, this large living space had matching pairs of upholstery meticulously put together to maximize the seating and coziness of the living space.
From the January/February 2019 issue, this formal living room’s grand scale lended itself to an extra long and large scaled sectional sofa.
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From the May/June 2016 issue, this large open living room combined the home’s original antique architecture elements with soft contemporary furniture selections.
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From the May/June 2017 issue, this living room’s warmth was carried from the wood paneling through the rest of the furniture peices to create a cozy inviting setting.
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From the November/December 2016 issue, this ‘Hamptons’ style living room had spacious seating with cool blue accents throughout the home’s decor.
From the January/February 2016 issue, this formal living room had plenty of seating to focus around the collection of antiques, cut glass, and art.
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CAR LIFTS
THE ZOOMING GOOSE Indy Icon adapts
Written by Neil Charles / Photographed by Adam Gibson As the pandemic approaches its first anniversary, restaurants and retailers have found themselves forced to respond to a new and hitherto unique set of challenges. Some have prospered under the lockdown and its various iterations, others have not. Long a favorite of ours at SL Indy, we are happy to report that Goose the Market, a unique Indianapolis establishment, appears to be weathering the storm in its own unique and inimitable way that incorporates oysters, smoked meats and, of course, the ubiquitous Zoom. For well over a decade, Goose the Market (located just north of the downtown Indianapolis area at 25th and Delaware Streets) has built a reputation on the Indy food scene both as a retailer and, through the Smoking Goose and Public Smokehouse, purveyors of the highest quality cured meats to many of the area’s better restaurants. Founded by husband and wife Chris and Mollie Eley, what started in concept as an upscale neighborhood market has become a household name amongst those who appreciate the finer things in life, with smoked meats, sausages and terrines now available at select locations as far afield as Chicago and New York. In Cincinnati, Smoking Goose products can be found at Jungle Jim’s, Skeleton Root, Share Cheesebar and Dutch’s Larder. Also boasting a charming wine bar, called The Enoteca, with a constantly changing selection of unusual bottlings served up with cheese boards and the now famous housemade charcuterie, Goose has become a destination for gourmets seeking a one-of-a-kind gastronomic experience. Key to its success both inside and outside of the Indianapolis market has been the exceptional quality of the products. “We use the whole animal, not just the prime cuts like steaks or chops,” explains Chris Eley. “Our house recipes start with what comes in from the farms.” Favorites include the Pig and Fig terrine and the Delaware Fireball, a uniquely savory and spicy hand-wrapped sausage that has become a standard bearer for the brand. Unlike larger, more commercial producers, ingredients are strictly locally sourced, with seasonal items and special offerings often selling out fast to a small army of Goose aficionados. In addition to the fabulous products themselves, customers could also, at least until last year, attend classes at the Smoking Goose on the subjects of whole hog butchering and salumi making. At The Enoteca, with its weathered communal tables and amply stocked wine cellar, guests could spend a relaxing evening learning about food and wine pairing or how to recreate one of Goose the Market’s famous charcuterie and cheese boards. “These were edible, drinkable “tours” of destinations all over the world, and included oyster shucking, beer and cheese pairing, and more,” explains Smoking Goose’s “narration director” Corrie Cook. “Of course, the food and drink got the spotlight, but part of the charm for staff and guests was experiencing strangers rubbing elbows together around those communal tables.” That was until Covid-19 struck. “And then, beginning in March, we couldn’t be in company together,” she continues. “The spark of those Enoteca classes and events was extinguished just like that.”
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Mollie Eley leads a Zoom charcuterie class.
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A variety of textures and flavors make the best charcuterie board, says Eley.
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The Grand Hotel's Jewel Course
Owners Mollie and Chris Eley
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Reinventing Goose’s services during these challenging times entailed, as it did for so many restaurants and retailers, striving to create a tailored experience online in order to keep clients engaged. With so much of their business based upon personal interactions, the staff worked to incorporate the unique Goose spirit into takeaway bags and delivery boxes. Parlaying in-person classes into a digital format presented an altogether different challenge, however. In the fall, Goose shared its first Zoom oyster shucking class registration on social media, including a brilliant twist - each participant would have a package to pick up: oysters, oyster knife, oyster glove, sparkling wine, as well as a Zoom invitation to their inbox. Eager to try something new and exciting during the lockdown, Goose’s guests flocked to attend, and more sell-out dates quickly followed. “While this time has definitely been challenging for all small businesses, I think we have been able to offer some fun things that we would have never done otherwise,” says Mollie Eley. “I’d never even heard of Zoom in February 2020. We’ve been pleasantly surprised by the great response from guests.” One of the most popular Zoom classes has been Mollie’s charcuterie board master class. Taking participants through the selection of appropriate ingredients to plating their own grand charcuterie board, the class is allinclusive. Featuring various cured meats, cheeses, sides, and crackers, as well as paired wine and the board itself, a hand-made wooden platter by Indy Urban Hardwood that is yours to keep, the class has been a huge hit. And what makes a great charcuterie board? “You need a variety of textures, colors, milks and meats,” she explains. “A good place to start is to do three meats, three cheeses and three accompaniments. I always think odd numbers look best on boards. Also, don’t forget a couple of sweet items - Frittle or Just Pop In popcorn are my favorites.” “People seem to really enjoy having all of their supplies for the classes - food, wine and tools,” she continues. “And we send out the class recording so they can watch it again or tune in later.” Classes are also offered as private Zoom events - perfect for extended families, book clubs, or as customer appreciation events. Participants pick up their class “kit” at Goose, (the kits can be shipped to those who live outside the Indianapolis area) then are emailed a Zoom link. During the class, guests interact with the teacher and each other and are able to ask questions, show their progress and converse just like they would in a communal setting. “It’s the best of both worlds,” adds Mollie. “Socially distant and safe, but together and fun!” For a list of upcoming classes, suggested wine pairings, and how to participate, readers are advised to visit Goose’s website - reservations are, of course, required. And don’t forget that as this arrives in your mailbox, there is an “R” in the month (the old adage being that you should only eat oysters when there is a letter “R” in the month, because those are the coldest months of the year), so we strongly recommend the oyster-shucking class for an engaging evening of bivalves and Champagne. No matter which class you choose, you’re guaranteed a diverting time, some much-needed social interaction, and maybe even a few new kitchen tools, not to mention skills that you can readily put to use when we are all entertaining again. sl For Zoom class information and to register, visit smokinggoose.com
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SMILING FOR ERICA Local Sophomore Devotes free time to Support EJH Foundation During this pandemic, many students are looking for activities to fill the extra time they have at home. Kyndall Griffin decided to spend her spare time giving back to her community. This Walnut Hills High School sophomore (pictured above) is stitching breast cancer ribbons on new bras for the annual Erica J. Holloman (EJH) Bra Drive. The Erica J. Holloman Foundation For The Awareness of Triple Negative Breast Cancer (Foundation) has completed their eleventh annual bra drive this year. For thirty five days, from June 15th to July 19th, new bras are collected from EJH supporters from all over the country. In October, the Foundation has a bra stitching event where each bra is hand-stitched with a ribbon that reads, “Smiling For Erica”.
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Once the bras have received their ribbon, they are donated to various shelters and programs supporting women’s needs, as well as to women in underserved communities, and through disaster relief efforts. This is not Kyndall’s first time stitching ribbons on bras for the EJH Bra Drive. She has been donating her time, sowing ribbons, for the last four years. When Kyndall was asked why it is important for her to stitch the ribbons she said, “It is important to realize how blessed and privileged I am and take that privilege and use it in a positive way to give back to others”. Kydall continued to say, “Due to being able to spend some time with Ms. Erica, and knowing all the amazing things about what she did and who she was, I want to carry on her legacy and make her proud of who I have grown to be today”. After stitching on hundreds of ribbons, Kyndall had the opportunity this year to actually participate in the delivery of some of the bras. After learning why these women need something most take for granted, Kyndall has a little better understanding of the world today and a feeling that she hopefully made someone smile when they receive a new bra with the words “Smiling For Erica” stitched on it. Kyndall Griffin is an honor student, student athlete, and a young ambassador for The Erica J. Foundation For The Awareness of Triple Negative Breast Cancer. The Foundation has donated over 6,000 new bras through the past eleven years. This event continues to be a great success thanks to volunteers like Kyndall. Thanks Kyndall. We applaud you!” sl
Bethany House Services Launches Capital Campaign for Consolidated Shelter and Comprehensive Services Center Bethany House Services, Greater Cincinnati’s largest provider of emergency shelter and housing programs for families experiencing homelessness, today announced the launch of its largest ever public campaign to raise funds for a new consolidated family homeless shelter and comprehensive services center. Total cost of the new center is estimated to be $16.5 million. To date, $10 million has been raised from generous foundations and individuals, including leadership-level gifts of $1 million or more from Amazon’s Jeff Bezos Day 1 Families Fund, the Heidt Family Foundation, the Farmer Family Foundation, the City of Cincinnati, the Carol Ann and Ralph V. Haile, Jr./U.S. Bank Foundation, and a local family who is choosing to remain anonymous. “Bethany House is combining seven facilities into one consolidated family homeless shelter and comprehensive services center for families experiencing homelessness. “This facility is the top priority within the homeless system in Southwestern Ohio and will allow us to expand services to parents and children and reach more families each year,” says Susan Schiller, Chief Executive Officer of Bethany House. The new shelter and services center will be located in Bond Hill. Explains Carolyn Washburn, chair of the Bethany House board of directors, “This facility is crucial to ensuring more families experiencing homelessness have access to a safe place to stay while they search for employment and housing. Bethany House has continuously increased its response to meet the urgent need in the community, but our facilities have reached capacity and are holding us back. Families and staff are spread among seven locations scattered throughout the city, which is inefficient, costly, and means unequal access to programs for families.
Regional data show that only about one in four families who called the homeless shelter hotline in 2019 received shelter or services. Agency-wide, Bethany House serves about 900 families each year and estimates it will provide shelter and services for an additional 100 families annually due to increased efficiencies and expanded on-site services in the new facility. “Bethany House has an opportunity to receive $2.5 million in New Markets Tax Credits (NMTC) from the U.S. Department of the Treasury if we can reach 85 percent of our goal by the end of 2020,” explains Albert Smitherman, Bethany House Board Member and Co-chair of the Capital Campaign Committee. “For this reason, we are seeking the help of the public to help us reach this goal as quickly as possible.” sl More information about the campaign is available at bethanyhouseservices.org/newbuildingcampaign.
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SOPHISTICATED SOCIETY2020 charity events
While we wait for life to get back to normal and social events to resume, Sophisticated Living is highlighting a recap of event photos from annual events from 2020. We want to reminisce and celebrate the parties, people, and most importantly, the philanthropies that made these gatherings so great.
CINCINNATI CHARITY REGISTER 2020 Presented by
from the publishers of
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As always, find out about all of the great philanthropies in the tri-state by visiting slmag.net/Cincinnati to access our Western & Southern Financial Group Sophisticated Giving Charity Register.
CONFIDENCE DOESN’T TAKE DETOURS. THE BMW X5.
You can turn left. You can turn right. Or if you’re behind the wheel of the BMW X5, you can decide not to turn at all. With an available mighty 456-horsepower engine, enhanced suspension for absolute driving comfort or a sportier driving style, and a fully redesigned interior, the BMW X5 is always ready, no matter the challenge ahead. Learn more about the all-new BMW X5, and enjoy exceptional offers at Dealer BMW. The BMW Store 6131 Stewart Rd Cincinnati, OH 45227 888-928-1945 bmwstore.com ©2021 BMW of North America, LLC. The BMW name, model names and logo are registered trademarks.
Photography by Andrew Higley
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CCM MOVEABLE FEAST 2020
Over 600 arts patrons attended Moveable Feast, CCM’s annual benefit event, on Jan. 17, 2020. Hosted by CCMpower– a dedicated volunteer group comprised of CCM’s friends and alumni – Moveable Feast showcased CCM students and faculty members in an evening of worldclass live entertainment. Attendees roamed CCM Village, socializing and enjoying dinner-by-the-bite while creating their own menu of artistic experiences from CCM’s nationally ranked and internationally renowned programs. The funds raised by the event enable CCMpower to fuel the future of the arts by awarding student scholarships and grants.
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1) Debbie & Mark Schmidt, Kent Shaw and Jeff Thomas 2) UC President Neville Pinto, Jennifer Pinto, Dena Cranley and Mayor John Cranley 3) David Reynolds, Jennifer Suttles, Michael Dennemann, Jeff & Karin Kruse 4) Rebecca Bolce, Rob & Alexa McDonald and Keith Wood 5) Peter Schwartz, Dianne Dunkelman and CCM Dean Stanley Romanstein 6) Mayor John Cranley, Dena Cranley, Barbara Gould, Jean Dr. Alvin Crawford 7) CCMpower Board of Trustees President Arlene Katz and CCM Dean Stanley Romanstein 8) Lisi George, Trish Bryan and Mayor John Cranley 9) Event Chair Brian Muething, Trish Bryan and Event Chair Paula Boggs Muething
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Photography by Tony Bailey
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CINCINNATI SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA GALA 2020
The Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra celebrated its 125th anniversary with the sold-out Timeless Gala, hosted by co-chairs Lars and Susan Anderson and presented by Fifth Third Private Bank. Beforehand, the Orchestra performed a concert in Music Hall featuring renowned soprano Renée Fleming and pianist Behzod Abduraimov, conducted by CSO Music Director Louis Langrée. Fleming performed courtesy of the Harold C. Schott Foundation/Francie and Tom Hiltz, Trustees. Many CSO musicians joined the party, courtesy of Randolph L. Wadsworth Jr. CSO president Jonathan Martin thanked guests for their support and shared a declaration by the Ohio House of Representatives recognizing the milestone anniversary. Board chair Rob McDonald announced Langrée’s contract extension through 2023-24.
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1) Keith Wood, Rebecca Bolce, Chris & Tim Steigerwald 2) John & Jennifer Winkelmann 3) Peter Chabris, Melody Sawyer-Richardson, Christopher, Lynn & Sophie Chabris 4) Dana & Jeffery Cooper 5) Carne & Dan Little, Theresa & Mike Liguzinski, Stephanie & Phil Shirk, Kevin & Jessica Duke 6) Dan & Carrie Little 7) Mike & Theresa Liguzinski 8) Cody & Leah Jones 9) Matthew& Valerie Warrett with Cynthia & Chris Bodison 10) Trish McLellan, Amanda Darnell, Susan Anderson & Don Zaunbrecher 11) Ann & Sean Sandman, Amanda & Damien Lass, Diane & John Altmix
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Photography by Tony Bailey
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MS DINNER OF CHAMPIONS 2020
The MS Dinner of Champions was held on Saturday, February 8, 2020 at the Jack Casino Cincinnati Event Center. This annual National Multiple Sclerosis Society event pays tribute to the network of generous corporations, organizations and volunteer leaders who are dedicated to making a difference in the lives of people living with MS. This year, Amanda Glenski was honored with the Joel Kahn MS Award of Courage and over $100,000 was raised to support valuable MS-specific programs and services for people living with multiple sclerosis.
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1) Tammy & Mason Gray with Anna & George Russell 2) Allyson & Ben Wichen with Dean Tower 3) Kim & Nick Chiodi, Jeff & Stacy Stainton with Sarah & CJ Herron 4) Walt & Margarite Lunsford with Kim & Ted Beach 5) Edward Ruen, Amanda & John Glenski 6) Jim Murphy, Bridget Hoffman & Andy Walter 7) Kim & Shawn Haas 8) Su Chang, Ellen & Kelly Vanharen 9) Danielle Perkins with Gauri Pkadke 10) Susan Kahn with Michelle Towers
Photography by Tony Bailey
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SCPA GALA 2020
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More than 500 guests celebrated “The Future of the Arts” at Music Hall with cocktails, dinner, dazzling visual art, and performances by School for the Creative & Performing Arts students performing together with members of the Cincinnati Ballet, Cincinnati Opera, Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra, and Cincinnati May Festival. Also featured were costumes collaboratively created by Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park staff and students. Kay Geiger, PNC Bank regional president, was honorary event chair, and John Morris Russell, conductor of the Cincinnati Pops, was emcee. The $100,000 raised will provide artistic and academic resources needed by the students to maintain SCPA’s 100 percent graduation rate and exceptional arts program.
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1) Marija Dunatou with Dr. Marc & Susan Cassidy 2) Kay & Jack Geiger 3) Colleen Cnepper, Stacy Miller & Mary Bunker 4) Otto Budig Jr. with Joan Kaup 5) Digi Schueler, Robert & Beth Wheeler, Michael Schueler, Susan Shurr & Dennis Mitman 6) SCPA Principle Michael Owner with Heather Hallenberg 7) Linda Siekmann, Peter Koenig & Lucy Hodgson 8) Jerry Ewers, Holly Briansragusa & Brian Tiffany 9) Lisa Sampson, Benita & Rob Heidenreich 10) Teresa Summe-Hass with Dr. James & Diane Otrembiak
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Photography by Tony Bailey
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LINDNER CENTER OF HOPE’S: TOUCHDOWN FOR HOPE 2020
Lindner Center of HOPE’s eleventh annual Touchdown for HOPE Super Bowl event at the Great American Ballpark raised $195,000 for patient assistance. Approximately 250 people attended the event. This year Jim Breech, former Bengals star kicker, and his wife, Denise, were honorary hosts. Proceeds from Touchdown for HOPE sponsorships and ticket sales will be used to fund a mental health services financial assistance program at Lindner Center of HOPE, benefitting our community’s first responders.
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1) Alvin Crawford MD and Jean Crawford 2) John Ryan, Jim Evans, Mary Beth Tounce, Paul Keck MD, Tracy Skale Keck MD, Jim Breech 3) Jan Marchefka, Madison Lawson, David Connell, Randi Jordan, Reid Bagley, Nick Mook, Morgan Retherford, Joey Hudson, Brian Cast 4) Jenn Pierson, Jim Breech, Alex Carlson, Chris Pierson, Jacob Pierson 5) Bill Slack with Bill Lucken 6) Bill & Kay Geiger 7) Alisa Dortch with Wayne Box Miller 8) Mike & Karan Glen 9) Pam & Warren Weber 10) Luis & Jasprit Villagrana
Photography by Tony Bailey
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STEPPING STONES OPEN YOUR HEART GALA 2020
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Stepping Stones’ 12th annual Valentine-themed dinner, Open Your Heart, raised a record-setting $105,000 in net proceeds for programs for children and adults with disabilities. At the February fundraiser, 245 guests enjoyed a three-course dinner at Eddie Merlot’s restaurant in Montgomery. Presenting sponsor was Convalescent Hospital for Children and was chairs by Patti Zesch.
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1) Steve Dilbone, John Ryan & Karl Craff 2) Jilda Vargus Adams, Kavila Washington & Brian Adams 3) Steve & Jenny Dilbone 4) Pam Steimer, Ginny Corsini & Mary Secton 5) Carolyn Harmann, Susan Eltringham & Nancy Aichholz 6) Libby & Chelsea Zesch with Lizzi Krombholz 7) Christine Chrub & Rob Zesch 8) Dr. Robert & Julie Heidt 9) Ward Heilbroner & Karl Daniels 10) Emily and Chris Adams with Cathleen Sheil 11) Phil & Abby Taylor
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THE DRAGONFLY GALA 2020
The Dragonfly Foundation’s 10th Anniversary Grand Gala, held in February at Music Hall, raised nearly $300,000. The money raised at the Grand Gala will help pediatric cancer patients and their families by providing support programs through their cancer journey. 20 families were honored as a part of the 10-year anniversary Grand Gala, which was attended by more than 500 guests. The Gala included a cocktail hour, live music performances, a silent auction, photo booth, penguin encounter, caricature artist and more. For more information on how you can help The Dragonfly Foundation go to dragonfly.org.
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1) Venkat & Carol Patnaik 2) Kaye & John Jasinski with Neal & Page Cooper 3) Kristie & Matt West, Dana & Brandon Pung, Sarah Mackenzie & Jeff Morris with Jamie & Chris Elchinger 4) Patti & Greg Vehr 5) Diane & Greg Stevens 6) Jared & Leann Phillips 7) Adrienne Korth with Greg Hoernschemeyer 8) Rachel Wolf with Shawn Cox 9) Kennedy Green
Photography by Tony Bailey
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AMERICAN HEART ASSOCIATION HEART BALL 2020
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The 27th annual Greater Cincinnati Heart Ball was held on February 22 and raised over $1,500,000 for the lifesaving work of the American Heart Association. This stellar evening presented by co-sponsors, TriHealth and St. Elizabeth Healthcare, was themed It Takes a City and focused on the American Heart Association’s community work to fight hypertension in our region. The event drew over 1000 guests and 350 After Party attendees. The Heart Ball was chaired by Jeff Hock, CEO of HBH Holdings, Inc. Marci Campbell chaired the auction and Ryan Campbell and Katie Hock spearheaded the Young Professional After Party. Technology entrepreneur, Lawrence Griffith, CEO of Digital Factory, Inc., was honored at the Heart Ball with the Heart of the City Award.
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1) Bill & Jenny McCloy with Kay & Jack Geiger 2) Adam & Tonia Elrod with Dr. Rick Lofgren 3) Subhadra & Dr. DP Suresh with Dr. Brett & Lorie Kissela 4) Heart Ball Chair Jeff Hock with Dave Herche 5) John & Kerry Mongelluzzo 6) Leilani Moore with Mark & Karen Jahnke & Jeffrey Hock 7) Carol Jackson with Auction Chair Marci Campbell 8) Trihealth Sponsored Table
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RED AND BLACK BLAST 2020
Over 300 guests attended the University of Cincinnati’s Advancement & Transition Services’ 3rd annual Red & Black Blast on February 28 at UC’s Fifth Third Bank Arena. Guests reveled as they enjoyed a gourmet dinner, bid on art created by ATS’ participants, took their chances at the wine pull, winning vacation and bourbon packages, and danced the night away. Highlights of the event included Christi Carnahan, Professor and ATS Director’s awards presentation to Terri Hogan, Contemporary Cabinetry East CEO and Daniel Cummins, UC Assistant Dean of Students. Ms. Hogan received the Champion for Inclusion Award, while Mr. Cummins was awarded the Chuck Altenau Outstanding Service Award. Heartfelt and emotional presentations by ATS students drove home the fundraising event’s success by raising $ 130,000.
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1) Dean Johnson taking a break from the panini grill 2) Guests checking out the raffle and auction items 3) RBB at Fifth Third Mastercard 4) Molly Mulvany with David Clark 5) Diana O’Brien with Laura Kitzmiller 6) Quinn Villarreal/University of Cincinnati 7) Daniel Cummins 8) Sydney & Georgetta Cummins 9) Terri Hogan with Christi Carnahan 10) Simon Bell
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LLS 2020 STUDENTS OF THE YEAR GRAND FINALE 2020
The Leukemia and Lymphoma society held their 2020 Students of the Year Grand Finale and the Great Wolf Lodge on February 28th. These amazing students raised an incredible $361,744 in just 7 short weeks! Team ALL for A-Town 3.0 was named this year’s Students of the Year winner raising $111,795! Carlie Mays (Anderson), Maya Tilley (Anderson) & Lucy Yungblut (Turpin) joined forces from rival schools to take down the ultimate opponent: Cancer. Students of the Year is a unique competition for students who are enthusiastic about volunteerism, philanthropy, community outreach. These high school students compete for scholarships in a 7 week leadership and philanthropy program while raising money for life-saving cancer cures.
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1) ‘Students of the Year’ Winners Maya Tilley, Carlie Mays, Lucy Yungblut 2) Christina (LLS Associate) and Olivia (SOY Candidate) Bold 3) Michael Clark (LLS Board member), Bre Sambuchino (Woman of the Year Candidate) & Michael Goeke (Board Member) 4) Ryan Highfield, Taylor Bailey, Jackson Gast from Little Miami 5) Grand Total Revealed 6) Sam Greenberg, Jordan Sovik, Ben Westley from Loveland 7) The current and past students that have participated from the Anderson and Turpin schools 8) Candidates & Supporters 9) Candidates, family and friends celebrating at the Grand Finale
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OHIO VALLEY VOICES GALA 2020
Ohio Valley Voices (OVV) hosted the 13th Annual Gala on February 29, 2020 at Paul Brown Stadium with Dave Lapham as the emcee. Over 400 people were in attendance which made it the most financially successful gala in school history. All proceeds benefit the children of Ohio Valley Voices. OVV believes all children can succeed when given the proper tools and want to thank all who came to support their mission. 5
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1) Ickey Woods with Elyse Jenkins 2) Dr. & Mrs. Ian Windmill 3) Brit & John Rizek 4) Bob & Mary Ann Rice 5) Dan & Brigida Loucks with Angie & Tony Sotille 6) Klette-Cusher family from The Elsa Suhl Foundation 7) Eric Neuville, Inge Hanis & Dave Brown 8) Jimmy & Lina McMullen with Terri & Jim Moore 9) Mike & Sue Schuetter 10) Angie & Tony Sottile 11) Linda & Dave Lapham with Martha & Dave Shively
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