ACCOUNTING Kasie Carleton, Urszula Janeczko, Bruce Liberman, Steven Resnick
PUBLISHED BY Wainscot Media
CHAIRMAN Carroll V. Dowden
PRESIDENT &
Mark Dowden
SENIOR
Cover photography by Ali Reed, Ali Reed Photography
A
NOTE FROM NANCY MANN, CEO OF MANN’S JEWELERS
I had an experience this summer that brought me back full circle to the significance of jewelry.
I am fortunate to have two daughters, and for every birthday since they were a year old, I gave them each a piece of jewelry engraved with their age and the date. This summer my older daughter asked me for all of her “birthday” jewelry that I had been keeping aside for her in the vault. I had a wonderful time unwrapping the small bags and boxes I had everything stored in, and it was truly a walk down memory lane. There was a brooch of my daughter’s that I gave her when she was 8 years old. It’s a gold top hat with enamel that she now plans to wear on a blazer. She was also delighted with a tiny ring that she will wear on her pinky and a special necklace with some miniature beaded fruits dangling from the chain that went immediately around her neck.
While I was uncovering the kids’ treasures, I also uncovered a long-ago treasure of my own. For my 21st birthday, my parents presented me with a necklace, a twenty-dollar gold piece coin surrounded by 21 diamonds, designed to represent the milestone birthday. The thought that was put into that gift is still as poignant to me today as it was decades ago, when I first unwrapped the beautifully ribboned package.
I also have my charm bracelet from when I was a child, which was the inspiration for the charm bracelets I started for my daughters when they were young. We chuckled together when we looked at the perfectly detailed desktop computer and the flip phone, from long before laptops and iPhones were ever created. We also reflected on the skis, the field hockey stick and other char ms that represented whatever their interests were in that moment.
At Mann’s Jewelers we take “marking the moment” very seriously. We value the trust you put in us to help commemorate a milestone in your life or for someone you love. We love when you push us to be creative and think outside the box. We love to reimagine an unworn piece of family jewelry and create something that better expresses your current style, while still maintaining the sentiment imbued in the original.
How can we help you create the most meaningful piece of jewelry that brings the recipient back to the moment it was received, and serves as a sentimental reminder of a special moment in time?
Photography: Ali Reed
Makeup: Jerica Santana
Jewelry: Mann’s Jewelers
Hair: Suzanna Amalfi, Sooz Salon
Mann’s
Fabulous in Rochester
ROCHESTER NATIVE & STYLE GURU COURTNEY WINSLOW TALKS SEASONAL STYLE
Retro Cool Meets Modern Edge
As winter looms, it’s time to gear up with styles that blend classic vibes with a modern
This season, we’re throwing it back to the sharp sophistication of the ’50s (Gin Martini up, dry, three and thank you), the power moves of the ’80s (Tequila Sunrise anyone?), and the bold swagger of the round of Cosmos for my girls). From structured suits to cozy capes, here’s how to stay sharp, warm and effortlessly cool with a fancy glass in
Boho Reboot:
The Power Suit: Vintage Vibes,
Modern Moves
Corporate life is back, and so is the tailored suit. Think Mad Men swagger with an ’80s edge—big, bold shoulders that make a statement. Khaki and off-white suits are your go-to for breaking up that all black winter wardrobe. Keep the jewelry XXL and you’ll make quite an entrance into that boardroom. Add a burgundy leather tote to seal the deal. This isn’t just dressing up; it’s a power move.
Sweaters + Tweed: The Ultimate Cozy Combo
Oversized sweaters and tweed skirts are back, channeling that English countryside cool. Picture cozying up in chunky knits, herringbone patterns and argyle designs. Elevate the look with oversized pearls that say, “Ivy League, but make it fashion.” Grab the damn pumpkin spice latte if you must, but make sure you’re not in boring leggings. Ditch the tech for a vintage-inspired leather-strap watch—because old-school timepieces are gonna score you some extra points with Grams.
The Cool Girl’s Winter Edit
The Boho look came for seconds (or thirds), but this time it’s grown-up. The Chloe girl is back, and she’s bringing her “I’m with the band” attitude with her. Thanks Penny Lane, we’ll take it from here. Layers of chiffon and silk meet oversized wool wraps and thigh-high leather boots for a vibe that’s equal parts sexy and cool. Stack on thick gold bracelets and long pendant necklaces to complete this easy breezy fall trend. Whether it’s date night or a casual hang, this look is gonna get you groupie status.
Coats That Pop: Funnel Necks & Fresh Hues
This winter, the funnel-neck coat is your new best friend. Channeling the street styles of Paris, keeping it cool while staying warm. And if you’re shake up the season’s typical dark palette, pastels surprise you. I know, right?! Think soft butter yellows, and baby blues that
brighten up the grayest of days. We could use all the help we can get here in the ROC, sometimes it feels like we’re living in a black and white Orson Welles movie.
Slip Dresses: Layering Done Right
Slip dresses aren’t just for summer— they’re your winter layering secret weapon. Throw one over a crisp button-down or under a chunky sweater, and let your accessories take the spotlight. Necklines get to be the belle of the winter ball, so take advantage of the real estate and layer on your favorite gold MJ Precious Petites (yes, all of them). This look is pure Holly Golightly with a modern twist— perfect for any season.
Hat Trick: Headwear Steps Up
Winter in Rochester means hats are a must, but this season, they’re anything but basic. From sleek pillbox hats to wool caps and cashmere beanies, headwear is making a serious style move. And I know you don’t want to ruin your blowout from Sooz, me neither! But unless you are heading to a Bills game, please give your son his pom-pom beanie back. Even he thinks it’s ridiculous on you. This season’s chapeaux (thank you Emily in Paris) are the most iconic way to show off your new earrings from the holidays. It’s like a little frame for your new baubles.
Off-the-Shoulder: Sexy Meets Snug
For those nights you plan on staying close to the fire, off-the-shoulder tops and dresses are the way to go. Ruching and folded fabrics at the shoulders give you that cozy, hugged-up feeling and the perfect opportunity to show off that sleek gold choker. I’m personally obsessed, in case anyone wants to know what I want from Santa. It’s the ultimate date night duo—effortlessly cool and undeniably stylish.
This winter, blend old-school cool with modern flair. Whether you’re suiting up for work or layering up for a night out, these trends ensure you stay warm, fashionable and effortlessly ready for anything the winter days throw at you (except the neighbors’ kids’ snowballs; I can’t help you there.)
Jewelry previous page:
Roberto Coin 18k gold Zig-Zag bracelet with diamonds. $22,500
Hueb 18k gold Bahia earrings with rhodolite garnets and blue topaz. $7,800
Frederique Constant Classics Carrée gold-tone timepiece with diamonds $2,695
Charles Krypell 18k gold Birdcage ring with diamonds. $10,500
Zydo 18k gold stretch bracelet with diamonds. $32,400
♦ GET THE LOOK
Stephen Webster Thorn Embrace necklace with tanzanite and diamonds in 18k white gold. $45,000
Stephen Webster Thorn Embrace earrings with tanzanite and diamonds in 18k white gold.
$13,000
Three stone oval cut diamond and Cadillac cut diamond ring with micro-pavé shank in platinum. Price on request
Cocktail Chic
Nanis Ciliegine hand-engraved drop earrings with diamonds in 18k yellow gold. $3,940
Nanis Dancing In The Rain hand-engraved choker with pavé diamond Boules removable charm. Necklace $19,995 Charm $9,960
Straight line 21.22tw diamond bracelet in 18k white gold. $133,000
Gabriel & Co. Bujukan wide-band ring with diamonds in 14k white and yellow gold. $1,925
Gabriel & Co. Bujukan bracelets with diamonds in 14k yellow gold. From top: $1,300 $2,425 $1,275
Puffy crescent earrings in 14k yellow gold. $1,135
GET THE LOOK
in 14k yellow gold. $560
MJ On Trend Three stone bezel-set ring with emerald-cut diamonds in 14k yellow gold. $3,325
Sydney Evan Malachite bead bracelet with scallop edge diamond rondelle in 14k yellow gold. $1,080
Jade Trau Envoy curb link necklace with diamonds in 18k yellow gold. $13,300
John Hardy Extra small Surf hoop earrings in sterling silver. $325
Ippolita Stardust medium flower disc ring with diamonds in sterling silver. $1,795
Tag Heuer Carrera 36mm automatic watch with a white mother-of-pearl and diamond dial and 18k rose gold-plated index markers and hands in stainless steel. $4,800
Date Night
Charles Krypell Bangle bracelet with diamond edges and oval diamond lock in yellow gold. $21,000
Roberto Coin Huggie hoop earrings with scattered diamonds in 18k yellow gold. $1,700
Frederique Constant Classics Carrée goldtone ladies watch with diamonds. $2,795
Nouvel Heritage ‘Dinner Date’ Mood ring with diamonds in 18k yellow gold. $2,500
Ozempic is now a household name, and it seems like everyone is talking about it. The trade name Ozempic is often used to refer to a whole class of drugs called GLP-1 agonists, and they truly are a game changer in the weight loss arena. Polls estimate that more than 13 percent of the U.S. population have already tried these medications; that’s one in eight people!
What are GLP-1’s and how do they work?
While originally prescribed for type 2 diabetes, several GLP-1 agonists are now FDA approved for weight loss. These medications work on the receptors that help us feel full and satisfied and delay gastric emptying, which leads to reduced caloric intake and effective weight loss. But the unique thing about these medications is that they also work on the reward pathways and neurotransmitters in our brains to turn off that “food noise.” The result is pretty revolutionary—a quieting of the constant chatter about foods, advanced meal planning and unhealthy cravings.
So what does this mean for plastic surgery?
That’s why I’m here right?! Rapid weight loss is what it means. These medications are giving quick and effective results to patients, whether they want to lose 10 pounds or 50 or more! And weight loss of any kind comes with desirable as well as undesirable changes to the face and body. We all know that being at an ideal weight and BMI is ideal for overall health, but some of the skin changes that come with weight loss may be less favorable.
I heard you’re offering completion consultations. Tell us more.
That’s right. A completion consultation is a consultation I offer to patients to discuss the changes to their body after weight loss. When patients lose weight with or without medication, they often see first deflation of their breasts and extra skin on their tummies. With more significant weight loss, some patients are unhappy with the extra skin of the arms and thighs. Procedures such as breast lifts and tummy tucks, or arm and thigh lifts are a great way to remove extra skin and improve the contour. We encourage patients to continue an exercise regimen and healthy diet to achieve the long-lasting health benefits of their weight loss journey.
I’ve heard of ‘Ozempic butt’ and ‘Ozempic face’ but what is really happening?
There are so many popular terms out there, but these are not really a medical diagnosis. What you need to remember is that when you are losing weight with any method, the foods you eat and exercise are equally important. Weight loss can also lead to muscle loss, and we counsel our patients on optimal nutrition, including increased protein intake, and exercising with weight training to improve muscle mass is also stressed for our patients. If patients do not follow these recommendations, they may experience facial aging or a flat and sagging backside, often termed ‘Ozempic face’ and ‘ozempic butt.’ If patients do lose volume in these areas, procedures such as facial fillers or a facelift and a posterior lift to improve the contour of the buttocks are available.
So I’m dying to know. Are you starting a weight loss program?
We are so excited for the launch of our new wellness program to the greater Rochester community. We are grateful for the loyalty of our patients who trust us with their aesthetic care, and we are very excited to extend these offerings. You can learn more about our medical weight loss and wellness program on our social media handles and our website quatela.com. We are excited to go on this weight loss journey with you and head to a happier and healthier 2025.
973 East Avenue Rochester, NY 14607 585.244.1000 Quatela.com
UNPARALLELED EXCELLENCE IN PLASTIC SURGERY
We redefine the boundaries of beauty and rejuvenation, offering an unparalleled experience that transcends ordinary expectations. From the moment you step into our restored mansion, you will be greeted by a team of world-renowned surgeons, dedicated to turning your dreams into reality.
TOP 2% PROVIDER IN THE NATION*
SCHOOLED IN DETAIL
Classrooms once filled the Upper West Side building where an apartment was recently transformed by designer Alyssa Kapito. Now it’s a lesson in thoughtful design.
The design of a great interior isn’t just about choosing paint colors and furniture to match a style. Consideration of the home’s unique architecture is important too. When 37-year-old Alyssa Kapito, an art history maven who runs an eponymous design firm in New York City, creates her interiors, she relies on what she’s given as well as what she’s inspired to bring.
“Every detail in a space matters and ultimately plays a part in how one feels upon entering a room,” Kapito says in her newest book, Alyssa Kapito: Interiors “The light, the scale, the colors, the textures—even the scent of the surroundings—all have an effect.” In designing the Upper West Side residence seen on the following pages, she uses both vintage and contemporary pieces to complement the former Beaux-Arts school building’s architecture, particularly its soaring windows and ceilings.
Previous spread: “It’s a rare find and pleasure to craft a home with such proportions and scale,” interior designer Alyssa Kapito says of this Upper West Side home, which was an arts school in the 1940s before it was converted into a residence. To draw the eye toward the ceiling and the plaster chandelier by Eric Schmitt, she hung long curtains in the living room, as well as throughout the home. “I always hang curtains as high as they can go,” she says, “because scale in a room is so important to me.” The living room during the day is bathed in sunlight, while the tall windows create long, poetic shadows that are beautifully romantic. This page: The living room features a bespoke parchment coffee table with mid-century accessories as well as a bookcase by Swiss architect Pierre Jeanneret. Opposite page: The plaster chandelier bestows a radiant glow over a custom game table and a pair of vintage chairs by Italian designer Gio Ponti.
This page: New York City-based designer Christopher Peacock customized the oak elements in the kitchen he created, including cabinetry, an island and a sliding ladder. The two brass pendant lights above the island are by Urban Electric. Opposite page: With a ceramic vase by KoreanAmerican sculptor Yongjin Han and “his and hers” sinks and vanities, the primary bathroom is an example of how Kapito blends custom elements with modern art.
All images are reprinted with permission from Alyssa Kapito: Interiors (Rizzoli New York, 2024). Photography by Joshua McHugh.
BAKING WITH NONNA
Thanks to family traditions in the kitchen, well-remembered treats embody more than one kind of sweetness.
How food can be freighted with memory and emotion! It’s necessary nourishment for our bodies, yes, but it can also foster a bond between family members—and a link from generation to generation. And it has the power to create moments when the delight on our taste buds combines with deeper, richer and more lasting delights.
Author Paola Bacchia was born and raised in Melbourne, Australia, but grew up making memories in an Italian kitchen. It was there that her mother, who’d emigrated from northeast Italy, made wonderful, heartwarming dinners and desserts for family and friends. In her latest book, At Nonna’s Table: One Italian Family’s Recipes, Shared With Love, Bacchia presents the dishes that Mom made, the family recipes and those inspired by her. On the pages that follow are three bites that will satisfy every sweet tooth, as they have for generations.
cinnamon amaretti
INGREDIENTS:
n 2 large egg whites
n pinch of fine sea salt
n 7 oz. almond flour
n 3/4 cup caster (superfine) sugar
n 1 tsp. ground
cinnamon
n 1/2 tsp. pure vanilla extract
n flaked, whole or blanched almonds, for decorating
DIRECTIONS:
Preheat the oven to 320°F fan-forced. Line a large baking tray with baking paper.
Using a hand whisk, beat the egg whites in a bowl with the salt until they just turn white and are foaming.
Place the almond flour, sugar and cinnamon in a large bowl and whisk to combine. Carefully fold through the vanilla extract and beaten egg whites.
Shape the dough into balls about the size of a large walnut. (If the dough is a bit too soft to roll, add a little more almond flour, or even some plain/all-purpose flour.)
Place the dough balls on the baking tray, spaced about 11/2 inches apart. Flatten the top slightly with your thumb and decorate with almonds.
Bake for 20–22 minutes, until lightly golden. Leave to cool on wire racks. The amaretti will keep in a sealed container in the pantry for up to 1 week, or can be frozen for at least 1 month.
MAKES 18 PIECES
buttery almond crescents
MAKES 25 PIECES
INGREDIENTS:
n 2 cups plain (all-purpose) flour, plus extra for dusting
n 51/2 oz. almond flour
n 31/2 oz. caster (superfine) sugar
n a good pinch of fine sea salt n 9 oz. butter, softened n 1 tsp. pure vanilla extract n icing (confectioners’) sugar, for dusting
DIRECTIONS:
Line two baking trays with baking paper.
Place the flour, almond flour, caster sugar and salt in a large wide bowl and give a good whisk to combine. Add the butter and vanilla and stir with a large spoon, then bring the dough together with your hands.
Break off 1 oz. chunks, about the size of a small apricot, and roll each one, on a lightly floured surface, into a 4-inch-long rope. If the dough is too soft to work with, place in the fridge for 15 minutes to firm up. Form each rope into a horseshoe shape that’s slightly fatter in the middle and place on the baking trays.
Place the baking trays in the fridge for 15–30 minutes for the crescents to firm up.
Meanwhile, preheat the oven to 320°F fan-forced. Transfer the baking trays to the oven and bake the crescents for 18–20 minutes, until lightly golden.
Remove from the oven and leave to cool on the trays for 5 minutes, then carefully lift off the crescents and place on a wire rack. While they are still warm, dust the crescents with icing sugar. Leave to cool to room temperature; they will firm up as they cool.The crescents will keep in a sealed container in the pantry for up to a week.
thin almond & lemon biscotti
MAKES 40-60 PIECES
INGREDIENTS:
n 9 oz. whole almonds, blanched
n 2 1/3 cups plain (all-purpose) flour, plus extra for dusting
n 11/2 tsp. baking powder
n 61/2 oz. sugar
n 1/4 tsp. fine sea salt
n 3 eggs
n zest of 1 lemon
n 2 tsp. pure vanilla extract
n 1 tsp. pure almond extract
DIRECTIONS:
Preheat the oven to 285°F fan-forced. Line a baking tray with baking paper.
Place the almonds, flour, baking powder, sugar and salt in a bowl and stir to combine.
Break the eggs into a jug. Add the lemon zest and extracts and whisk to combine. Make a well in the center of the flour mixture and pour in the egg. Stir with a spoon, and then with your hands, until well combined and homogeneous. The dough will be quite thick. Divide the dough into two even logs, about 7 inches long, using extra flour as needed to shape them. Place them on the baking tray, spacing them well apart. Bake for 35–40 minutes, until pale golden and cooked through.
Turn the oven off and leave the logs to cool completely on a wire rack. This may take an hour or more; you could even leave the second baking until the next day. When ready for the second baking, preheat the oven to 285°F fan-forced. Line several baking trays with baking paper. Using a large sharp knife, carefully cut the cooled logs into slices about 1/4 inch thick. Place the biscotti on the baking trays and bake for about 20 minutes, or until firm and golden; the baking time will depend on how thick you have sliced them. Leave to cool on wire racks; the biscotti will become firm as they cool. The biscotti will keep in a sealed container in the pantry for up to 1 week, or can be frozen for at least 1 month.
1. Emerald-cut diamond ring with Cadillac-cut diamond side stones in platinum. Price on request 2. Platinum and 18k yellow gold pendant with a heart-shape natural fancy yellow diamond and white diamonds. $97,400 3. Round and baguette-cut diamond drop earrings in 14k white gold. $10,750 4. Eternity band with radiant-cut diamonds in platinum. As shown $20,550 5. Thorn Embrace earrings by Stephen Webster in 18k white gold with diamonds. $6,000
1. Pastel Sunburst necklace by Charles Krypell with rubellite, pink sapphires and diamonds in 18k white gold. $5,995 2. Rock Candy 8-stone cluster earrings by Ippolita in 18k yellow gold. $3,995 3. Rainbow Moonface ring with carved blue moonstone and multicolor sapphires by Temple St. Clair in 18k yellow gold. $10,000 4. Obelisco open cuff bracelet by Roberto Coin with multicolor sapphires and diamonds in 18k yellow gold. $15,900 5. Emerald-cut blue sapphire and oval-cut diamond earrings in 18k white gold. $114,995
Mann’s
tories Told in GOLD
1. Large Tree of Life pendant by Temple St. Clair in 18k yellow gold with diamonds. $26,000 2. Venetian Princess etched frame ring by Roberto Coin in 18k yellow gold with diamonds. $5,950 3. Cheval cuff bracelet by Roberto Coin in 18k yellow gold with diamonds. $14,500 4. Medium square hoop earrings by Roberto Coin in 18k yellow gold. $2,270 5. Parisian Stroll Mood bangle by Nouvel Heritage in 18k yellow gold with diamonds. $5,500
P lay It by EAR
1 . Luna Flower earrings by Temple St. Clair in 18k yellow gold with moonstones and diamonds. $5,500 2. Platinum and 18k yellow gold bezel set earrings with natural fancy yellow and white diamonds. $57,590 3. Poppy stud earrings by Jade Trau in 18k yellow gold with diamonds. $4,800
4. Crescent fringe earrings in 14k yellow gold with bezel set diamonds. $4,145 5. Classic 40mm hoops by Gabriel & Co. in 14k yellow and white gold with diamonds. $2,325
1. Tag Heuer 30mm Aquaracer Professional quartz watch with a light blue dial and stainless steel case and bracelet. $1,950 2. Frederique Constant 40mm Classic quartz chronograph watch with a triple calendar white dial, and stainless steel case and bracelet. $1,395 3. Tag Heuer 44mm Formula 1 chronograph automatic watch with a green dial and stainless steel case and bracelet. $3,800 4. Tag Heuer 36mm Carrera automatic watch with a pink dial and stainless steel case and bracelet. $3,200
5. Tag Heuer 39mm Carrera automatic watch with a navy blue dial, blue leather strap and stainless steel case. $6,450
Mann’s
T forTycoons
1. William Henry Caribe 13 twist action writing instrument with rosewood barrel and brass details. $275 2. Roberto Demeglio black ceramic and carbon fiber stretch bracelet with black diamonds in 18k yellow gold. $448 3. Black and white enamel gearshift cufflinks in silver-plated base metal. $255 4. Baccarat large Harmonie tumblers in a boxed set of two. $320 5. Wolf Designs single watch winder with storage in British racing green leather. $799
yachting }
THESE PORTS ARE CALLING
For the seafaring traveler, few destinations worldwide check every box as beautifully as these five. How many have you visited?
Everybody’s looking for something when they travel the seven seas: adventure, cuisine, shopping, relaxation. You can have it all when you navigate your yacht to the world’s beautiful and shipshape ports. These places are at the center of nautical life, combining charm and character at the dock with a surrounding city that’s well worth a day trip or an extended stay with family and friends. Here are five unregrettable ports:
Palm Beach, Florida, U.S.A.
Perhaps no other American shoreline along either the Atlantic or the Pacific is as pristine and prestigious as Florida’s Gold Coast, and this port city just may glisten brightest. Less than 10 miles south of freighter-populated Port of Palm Beach is the Town of Palm Beach Marina, the boating mecca of many Fortune 500 moguls and their superyachts. It’s more than 80 years old, but it sparkles now more than ever thanks to a $40 million post-pandemic renovation. It has a total of 84 berths, 10 of which can accommodate vessels up to 294 feet long, and offers state-of-the-art amenities such as a floating concrete dock, expanded shore power, wider and deeper slips, high-speed Wi-Fi and more. This slice of Sunshine State heaven also is the gateway to the town’s exclusive lifestyle. Think plenty of greenery and scenery: golf courses, art galleries, wellness spas, historical museums, boutiques and five-star dining establishments—including Chef Daniel Boulud’s famed Café Boulud.
Porto Cervo, Sardinia, Italy
Like the Sunshine State’s Gold Coast, Italy’s shoreline along the Tyrrhenian Sea is rich in ports with style and history. Jet-setters head to Naples and Capri, for instance, for business and holiday. But roughly 220 miles from Rome is Porto Cervo on the island of Sardinia. Tucked into the northern tip of the island, Marina di Porto Cervo is a popular Mediterranean yachting hub that draws vessels from all over the world. The old port was built around 1960 and used primarily for fishing, but it’s since been updated and upgraded. The New Marina and East Dock combined have berths for 100 luxury yachts up to 525 feet long, with room for about 600 additional smaller boats. Once docked, crew members can take advantage of on-site boat service, including high-speed fuel pumps, a laundry concierge and 24hour security. Passengers, meanwhile, will have access to waterfront shopping, dining, lounges and nightclubs, art galleries, museums and, most importantly, Sardinia’s fine-sand beaches and turquoise waters.
Shanghai, China
With an annual GDP of around $18 trillion, China is the world’s second-largest economy, and Shanghai is its major financial hub. The city’s massive port, connecting the East China Sea and the Yangtze River, is the world’s busiest—shipping vessels transport roughly 47 TEU (twenty-foot equivalent unit) containers a year here. But yachts too make their way through these waters. Many boaters on business head to the North Bund area, an upscale corporate and retail neighborhood along the banks of the Huangpu River, or the Metropolitan Marina Club in one of the city’s popular commercial districts. Others head to the Grand Shanghai International Marina, which has 20 superyacht bert hs (279 total berths). The facility also provides electricity, fuel delivery, water services, showers and entry to China’s largest metropolis. Along Nanjing Road, the city’s visitors can discover top-tier shops, luxury boutiques and fine dining options (148 restaurants were honored in the 2024 Michelin Guide Shanghai).
Marina Bahia Golfito, Costa Rica
Both coasts of this Central American country have long been magnets for tourists and adventurers alike. Yachters, however, may head toward Golfito, a nearly-century-old region along the Pacific shoreline known for sportfishing, rain forest expeditions and boating. The Marina Bahia Golfito is one of the country’s premier marinas, offering 45 slips for personal vessels up to 350 feet as well as boat maintenance, shore power, potable water services, cable TV and Wi-Fi, among other amenities. Off the dock, visitors can alternate between resort life and nature. There are pristine beaches with crystal-clear water, water sports, fine and casual dining options, energetic lounges and bars. Framing the beaches are Costa Rica’s lush rainforest and the Golfito Mixed Wildlife Refuge, where activities such as ziplining and hiking—and the opportunity to see rare tropical birds, endangered cat species and playful squirrel monkeys—await.
Coral Sea Resort, Whitsunday Islands, Australia
With flawless, white-sand beaches and water as blue as the sky, the Whitsunday Islands off Australia’s Queensland coast are a destination for vacationers and adventure seekers alike. This is also a main stopping point for deep-sea divers, expedition leaders and anyone interested in seeing one of the planet’s natural wonders, the Great Barrier Reef. The Coral Sea Marina here caters to all sailors destined for the Whitsundays, with a total of 520 berths—146 of which are designated for superyachts between 75 and 165 feet. If your vessel is longer (up to 262 feet), call ahead and a premium space may be cleared for you. Once there, take advantage of the amenities, including the Coral Sea Resort’s restaurant, bar and pool club, lounge, spa and beauty bar, courtesy cars and helipads. Outside of the resort, in the marina village, visitors will find more shopping opportunities, dining, ocean experiences and, of course, underwater excursions to the Great Barrier Reef.
Nikki Rudd
Nikki Rudd is an anchor at News10NBC in Rochester, New York. You can catch Nikki on News10NBC at 4 p.m., on Rochester’s only 7 p.m. newscast, and again with Brett Davidsen and First Alert Meteorologist Stacey Pensgen on News10NBC at 11 p.m. She lives in Livingston County with her husband, Shane, two bonus boys, cat Muffin and dog Striker.
What’s
her in BAG?
The Birdcage Collection in 18k Gold and Diamonds
MJ LOVE STORIES
Andria & Mick
When did you meet?
We met online in August of 2022. Mick didn’t have his geoparameter set; he is based in Buffalo, and I am based in Rochester. When he reached out I told him that this would be tough, however, his response of “60 miles is nothing for the right person, what do you think?” indicated that he was committed and willing to put the work in.
We got engaged on October 6, 2023, on the stage at CMAC, the same destination as our first date where we went to see Chris Stapleton. People say that when it’s meant to be it will happen quickly, and it did!
We got married on July 13, 2024, at Gilbertsville Farmhouse in South New Berlin, NY, surrounded by our incredible tribe of family and friends.
What’s a memorable moment from your wedding?
Memorable were the double rainbows that appeared after our rehearsal dinner speeches. They felt like a beautiful sign of approval from our loved ones, from both sides of our families in heaven. Andria’s surprise fireworks to Mick during the reception. The bray of a donkey during our ceremony, which had all of our guests in stiches! The butterflies fluttered about during our ceremony that several guests thought we released.
Can you tell us about your rings?
Andria: I absolutely adore my rings! My engagement ring is 14k white gold with diamond accents and a brilliant round center stone with a diamond halo. My wedding band is a 14k white gold, Frenchcut eternity band that matches perfectly. After Mick proposed, I found an old wedding planning folder from over 20 years ago. Inside, I had clipped a Mann’s Jewelers ad with the exact ring Mick bought for me! I had also suggested that Mick visit Mann’s Jewelers when he was thinking about an engagement ring. He told me not to worry. Little did I know, he had already bought my ring from there!
Mick: Andria picked a beautiful ring style six months prior to our engagement when we went looking for rings for fun. Katie helped me pick out exactly what Andria was looking for!
Can you describe your relationship in three words or less?
Equals, as we both bring equal value and commitment to our relationship. Creativity, because we have primary residences in both Rochester and Buffalo, requiring us to be inventive in managing our lives and relationships across two cities. Perseverance, because we’ve both faced challenges before coming together, which brought us closer. We plan to stay dedicated and resilient, growing stronger as a couple over time, no matter what comes our way.
What’s a habit that you’ve discovered about each other that brings you joy?
Mick: Andria’s ability to make even routine events sparkle. Andria: Mick has the ability to bring out the best in each and every single person he encounters and leave them happier and/or wiser than when he met them, qualities I admire.
How did your wedding day reflect your personalities?
Having a weekend wedding event allowed both families from two different cities to bond and connect in a way that reflects how both of us live our everyday lives. We pride ourselves on bringing incredible people together and allowing the magic to happen. That’s exactly what ensued during our wedding weekend. We also wanted our fairy tale wedding – this also happened!
What’s one tradititon you’re excited to create together?
Mick: Christmas gatherings for friends and family.
Andria: Making new memories with our family and friends during our journey together.
Who would play your spouses in a movie? Scarlett Johansson and George Clooney.
What’s something new or surprising you’ve learned about each other since getting married?
Mick: I am surprised by Andria’s flexibility related to navigating marriage while maintaining homes in two different cities.
Andria: That Mick was open to us getting a puppy in Rochester so soon after we were married.
What’s a movie, book or song that perfectly captures your relationship?
50 Mann’s
“Stay a Little Longer” by Brothers Osbourne and “Fire Away” by Chris Stapleton.
Taren &
Terry
When did you meet?
Our story began when the world began to slow down due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Having met in March 2020 just weeks before the pandemic began, we had agreed to go on our first date March 14, 2020. After learning more about the virus and the quarantine mandate, we agreed to postpone our date for two weeks while the “pandemic passed.” Little did we know that it would be many months of shutdown without the ability to meet in person. We began having virtual dates and spending hours on the phone and video chatting with each other. After a few months, we finally decided to meet in person. We had spent so much time getting to know each other during lockdown, when we finally met in person there was an instant connection. And as we navigated the challenges of a global pandemic, our bond only grew stronger.
Terry proposed March 19, 2023 in grand fashion with a surprise proposal that turned into a dual engagement and birthday party.
Can you describe your relationship in three words or less?
Refreshing. It is great to know you have someone in your life who is always looking out for you and your best interest.
How did your wedding day reflect your personalities?
Our wedding was beautiful and fun with both traditional and modern touches. There were things that highlighted both of our personalities including our personalized vows. In lieu of the traditional bouquet and garter toss, we opted for something more personal. We gathered all the present singles for a special prayer. Taren then distributed keys to the eligible bachelorettes to allow each a chance to try their key to open the glass encasement that held the bouquet. Terry threw an engraved basketball— an ode to his high school and collegiate basketball career as well as his current role as a basketball coach. Taren also made sure that the guests had everything they needed including a change of shoes for the ladies and lots of dance floor accessories to keep the party going throughout the reception.
Can you tell us about your rings?
We both wanted rings that were simple yet elegant so Terry selected a platinum band with etching detail and Taren’s ring is a round-cut center stone with a pavé diamond band.
How would you spend the day in an empty house?
Given that we both have busy schedules, with Taren running her law practice and Terry working as a college advisor and men’s basketball coach, we rarely have full days in the house. We’d probably spend the time on the couch catching up on our favorite shows and movies.
What’s the most unexpected or touching gift you’ve given or received from each other?
Terry: Taren threw me a surprise birthday party with family and friends last year. As if the party wasn’t enough, she also surprised me with compiling a video of special messages from my friends, family and mentees from across the country. It was truly one of the most unexpected and touching gifts I’ve ever received.
Taren: Terry is constantly surprising me with gifts. It’s like he knows what I want or need before I even mention it. He’s incredibly thoughtful. When we first started dating, he surprised me with a beautiful floral arrangement delivery to celebrate my running a successful community event I was organizing.
What’s one tradititon you’re excited to create together?
We both love the holidays and are excited about hosting family and friends for years to come.
How do you plan to support each other’s individual dreams and aspirations while building your life together?
We recognize that a big part of reaching our goals is mapping out a plan to attain them and being accountable to stick to that plan. One thing we are adamant about is helping each other stay on track, and we regularly spend time going over our progress reaching our combined and individual goals.
What’s a memorable moment from your wedding?
We truly enjoyed our wedding day. One of our most memorable moments was the sparkler exit where we got to close out our wedding reception by walking through our friends and family cheering us on. The sparkler exit also immediately proceded our after-party that featured more food, more dancing and karaoke with friends.
What’s a piece of advice you’ve received about marriage?
Embrace and cherish every day in marriage and do not take anything for granted.
What’s a habit that you’ve established with each other that brings you joy?
We love catching up with each other at the end of the workday and just talking about our day.
Photographer: A New Odyssey
Sara & Eric
When did you meet?
We met when we were 21 at Sara’s cousin’s birthday party. Eric’s cousin was her boyfriend at the time. We reconnected 7 years later at their wedding. We got engaged August 20, 2022 at Saratoga Race Course in the Winners Circle. We got married November 18, 2023 at Ravenwood, surrounded by our friends and families.
How did your wedding day reflect your personalities?
Eric: The planning process. Sara was dedicated to every detail from design to music to flowers to food. I was worried about coordination of guests and making sure everyone had a great time. Our teamwork and differences in personality made for a spectacular wedding day.
What’s a piece of advice regarding wedding planning you would give to future couples?
Sara: Make decisions based on what you want as a couple, not what others want. And chose high qualified vendors, they really make the difference. Shoutout to Bridgette at Ravenwood, the team at Rockcastle Florist and Bridget from Meccay Photography for all of the above and beyond they did for us.
Eric: Visit as many wedding venues as you can before picking the perfect location. We were happy with multiple options but when we got to Ravenwood we knew it was perfect for us.
Can you tell us about your rings?
The engagement ring is a plain gold shank with a hidden halo and basket and an oval diamond center. Sara chose two bands, the first is a pear shape diamond eternity band and her second band is an Alex Sepkus “Mosaic” band. Eric chose a band originally that was platinum with a yellow gold center, after seeing and loving Sara’s Alex Sepkus band, Sara surprised Eric with an Alex Sepkus band of his own.
Photography by Meccay Photography
What’s one animal you’d willingly keep as a pet?
We both are cat people. Our “Kitty” was incorporated into our wedding day as much as possible.
What’s the most unexpected or touching gift you’ve given or received from each other?
We wanted to give each other a special gift for our wedding day. At our rehearsal dinner, we exchanged what we refer to as “Friendship Bracelets.” For Eric, he received a yellow gold figaro bracelet engraved with ES + SJ inside the clasp. For Sara, she received a diamond tennis bracelet.
What’s a funny or memorable moment from your wedding that you keep laughing about?
When exchanging rings during the ceremony, Sara put Eric’s ring on the wrong finger.
The Main Attraction
You may feel momentarily upstaged wearing jewels like these, but trust us: You’re still the star.
From top down: 14k yellow and white gold multi-strand ball chain earrings with diamonds, $5,250. Lauren K Blossom 18k yellow gold ring with spessartite garnet and multi-color sapphires, $10,940. 18k yellow gold Tubogas triple-row rolling bracelet, $10,875.
Licensed in New York and Florida
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Clockwise from the top: Goshwara 18k white gold blue sapphire and chalcedony earrings with diamonds, $16,000. 14k white gold 6-row ring with diamonds, $3,875. Zydo 18k gold stretch bracelets, with diamonds, $32,400. With sapphires and diamonds, $16,100.
14k white gold floral motif earrings with diamonds, $8,295.
“Every Omi piece is both deeply personal, a color-drenched ornament of self-expression, and profoundly universal, an artifact of our planet and its ancient alchemy. When each is complete, we send it out into the world—destined to become a cherished gift, a precious valuable, a collector’s piece, timeless heirloom, simply one gives to oneself.”
- Niveet Nagpal, President and Gem-Centric Lead Designer
By Niveet Nagpal
Colored gemstones are nature’s finest works of art. For over 30 years at Omi Privé, we have been curating the best loose jewels from around the world, honing our eye for masterpieces. As jewelry designers, we seek out the most exquisite stones and work entirely in their service, employing expert craftsmanship and singular designs to accentuate their natural beauty.
At Omi, we believe that each gemstone has its own destiny waiting to unfold. We see ourselves as facilitators narratives within these precious stones. Our inherent beauty to bring out the best in each gemstone and connect them with the people destined to cherish them.
There is an art to everything we do. Our gemstones are natural masterpieces. Each part of our process, from cutting the gemstones to devising the settings, is performed not just with skill, but with artistry. Beauty is our muse and originality fuels us. We see it in our gemstones, in our work, and in the ways our customers express themselves through our pieces.
We take a meticulous and methodical approach to everything we do. With our exceptional stone sourcing and design, we adhere to the highest possible standards. We never cut corners or take shortcuts because we take pride in our work and our commitment to excellence. We believe the only way to ensure the best is to pay attention to every detail, every step of the way.
Every jewelry piece must reach the ultimate level of quality to bear the Omi Privé namesake; therefore, nothing is compromised along its journey. All our pieces are handcrafted in Southern California. We take pride in uniting traditional manufacturing techniques with the use of modern equipment.
As we continue to evolve, we remain committed to our industry. We work to educate the public on gemstones, hoping they’ll come to appreciate them as much as we do. Each stone has a story to share, and like our clients, each one is incredibly special.
A WORLD OF WINTER FESTIVALS
We travel for pleasure, for enrichment, to open the world up to ourselves—and to understand others more deeply. As Mark Twain once wrote, “Travel is fatal to prejudice, bigotry and narrow-mindedness.” And the turning of the year, while decidedly not the balmiest travel time for those of us in the Northern Hemisphere, affords an excellent opportunity to see how cultures celebrate themselves, their deities and their destiny. Examples of joyous winter festivities abound, of course, but seven suffice to make the planetary point.
Kirsten Meehan
For all their exotic variety, year-end holidays around the globe have this in common: a sense of joy and uplift that rewards the ambitious traveler. By
INDIA: DIWALI
The Hindi festival of lights is celebrated in late fall across India, though it has varying significance depending on region—different places dedicate the holiday to different Hindu gods, figures and religious epics. At its core, though, the sentiment of the celebration remains the same: to celebrate the victory of light over darkness and good over evil. Taking place over five days in the Hindu month of Kartik (that’s mid-October to mid-November on the Western calendar), it beckons families to begin their celebrations by cleaning their homes and then decorating them with clay oil lamps and intricate rangoli, mesmerizing designs created from colored powders or sand. The main day of the festival is the third, which includes feasts and fireworks. Every year, thousands of people gather at Ayodhya’s Sarayu River in the state of Uttar Pradesh for a breathtaking combination of lamp lighting and fireworks, which illuminate the night and make the crowd a living display of art and religious devotion. Families and friends exchange gifts and meals throughout the five-day festival.
MEXICO: FEAST OF OUR LADY OF GUADALUPE
The celebration of the Virgin of Guadalupe is essential to modern Mexican life and culture, bringing together people of all races and creeds in one national identity. Its back story holds that in 1531, Mary appeared before a Mexican peasant boy named Juan Diego and bade him build a church on the Hill of Tepeyac (later to became part of Villa de Guadalupe, a suburb of Mexico City). Since then, she has become one of the nation’s most powerful cultural symbols. Her feast day falls on Dec. 12, and it’s a celebration all over the country, as people spill from parishes for parades and dancing in the streets. But it’s at the Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe in Mexico City, said to be visited by nearly 20 million pilgrims every year, where the largest celebrations take place. The streets are closed to vehicles for a week leading up to the feast day as pilgrims and visitors stream to the site. Many of them camp in streets and parks. The festival atmosphere persists as dancers perform in the streets and Mass prayers and blessings are held daily.
JAPAN: BODHI DAY
Celebrated by Buddhists, Bodhi Day commemorates Siddhartha Gautama, the Buddha, gaining enlightenment while sitting under a sacred fig tree. Tradition teaches that, after forsaking years of ascetic practices, Siddhartha sat beneath the tree and resolved to meditate until he discovered the root of suffering and how to liberate himself from it—which, of course, he did. Japan celebrates this holiday Dec. 8, and observers often spend the day in prayer, or reading scriptures (called “sutras” in Buddhism). Families may hang lights and beads on a sacred fig tree, often with reflective ornaments that represent the “three jewels” of the religion: Buddha (the teacher), dharma (the teachings) and sangha (the community). Families also may enjoy tree- and leaf-shaped cookies. In addition, many people make trips to Buddhist shrines in honor of the holiday. If you join in this observance, prepare for a real treat—Japanese pagoda shrines and Buddhist temples are architectural wonders, and they’re steeped in the region’s history.
SWITZERLAND: THREE KINGS DAY
Also known as Epiphany, Three Kings Day on Jan. 6 celebrates the arrival of the three wise men, or kings, to give the infant Jesus their gifts (gold, frankincense and myrrh). In Switzerland it is a beloved public holiday. You may receive a visit from a group of “Sternsinger,” literally translated as star singers, a costumed choir of three or four children who will sing traditional carols and offer a blessing for your door. One child will be holding a star on a pole, usually a homemade craft on a broomstick. Families also partake in the famous Three King’s Cake, called dreikönigskuchen in German-speaking regions and galette des rois in French ones, which is a sweet, golden bread that hides a surprise inside. Baked into it is a small figure of a king (or sometimes a coin or other trinket). The person who receives the slice with the prize becomes king or queen for the day, is adorned with a cardboard crown and is said to have a year’s worth of good luck ahead.
Nancy Mann of Mann’s Jewelers chatted with Kyla Callahan to learn about the Ryan Callahan Foundation, and the meaningful work they do. Named after Kyla’s husband, a former National Hockey League player, the foundation strives “to bring unforgettable moments of family unity to pediatric cancer patients and their families by providing innovative solutions to escape the day-to-day hardships of battling cancer.”
The Ryan Callahan Foundation
MJ: What inspired the creation of the Ryan Callahan Foundation?
Kyla: My family was immediately impacted by pediatric cancer when our close family friend was diagnosed at 6 months of age with a brain tumor. Ryan was playing in Guelph, Ontario, for junior hockey when she passed away, and as teens ourselves, we were deeply impacted by her passing and the strenuous fight she battled. From that moment on, we knew we had to do something. When Ryan was traded to the Tampa Bay Lightning from the New York Rangers, we had the platform and leverage to start our nonprofit. We felt it was our duty to give back to the community and those in desperate need. We started off slow in 2014, with one family, and one objective.
We take a comprehensive approach to intaking a family into our network through a thorough application and vetting process, and face-to-face meeting so we can hear firsthand from our caregivers what struggles they are immediately facing. We provide monumental financial support on a need-by-need basis. Aside from paying an entire month’s living expenses (sometimes two or three months), we will repair cars, furnish bedrooms, put food on tables, provide clothing for children and backto-school necessities. There really isn’t an end point to our assistance. If we see the need, we will fulfill it.
MJ: Can you tell us more about the foundation’s four major programs?
Cally’s Crew is where it all began in Tampa, Florida. We began by bringing in pediatric cancer patients and their families from four local nonprofits in the Tampa Bay area to half of the Lightning home games in a suite purchased by Ryan and myself. We treated the kids to a VIP experience complete with swag bags, all the food you could desire, visits from the team mascot and so much more. After the final buzzer sounded, we brought the kids down to the locker room for a meet and greet with Ryan or any other player a child wished to meet. In the suite, I hosted the families personally, and gained a better understanding of the true needs of our families. We learned that a night awa y from the hospital room, not thinking about their next treatment or next scan was relieving, but we also learned family’s homes were falling apart. Sometimes they couldn’t afford their bills or put food on their tables. That moms and dads hadn’t been on a date night in months, sometimes years. It was after this moment we created our 24 Club to fill this void.
72 Mann’s
Kyla: Our family vacation program known as our 24 Club, is named after the number Ryan wore while he played in the NHL. Our family vacations are for the families who have endured extensive therapy protocols, families who have received a terminal diagnosis, those who have reached the end of their fight with nothing left to be done. We strive to provide final moments full of everlasting love, and support for a family together.
Michael’s story is what validated our foundation ten years ago. Michael and his mom, Michelle, were the very first family we met. They were referred to me by a local pediatric cancer non-profit who asked for us to help send them on a vacation. We learned early on, Michael had a terminal diagnosis and did not have much longer to live. Michael had asked to swim with the dolphins, his dying wish. We made his trip to Orlando rather quickly and sent them on their way. Ryan and I weren’t aware of the impact this trip had on Michael and his family until a few months later. Michael passed at the age of eleven, and his mom reached out and asked Ryan and me to attend his service, the first of too many over the next ten years. Ryan and I walked blindly into our surroundings, we knew only Michael’s mom. When we entered the doors to Michael’s service, there it was, up front and center, next to Michael’s closed casket. A photo which had to be bigger than 36’ x 48’ of Michael kissing a dolphin, exuding pure joy on his face, a photo from the trip we had sent him on. A ripple effect bounced around the room. Family member after family member approached us, thanking us for giving Michael and his mom one final joyful memory together; an everlasting moment Michelle can cherish for the rest of hour trip back home and sat in silence, with the car parked. It was the simultaneously, we are making a difference. It was the tip of the iceberg
her life. When the service was over, we returned to our car to make the moment it hit us both. We turned to each other; tears welling in our eyes, saying for us. Every day since Michael’s funeral, we strive to give more of ourselves. To love on every single one of our “kids” the same as we do our own. This has been our story since 2014 and will be our story every day moving forward.
Cally’s Comforts has been an ever-evolving program. Just prior to Covid, we formed this program with the goal of bringing providers into the hospital to give our patients and their families services such as manicures and pedicures and haircuts. Of course, this was impossible after strict guidelines were enforced. We quickly changed our course and brought providers into the homes of our patients, where everyone received these services as well as facials, massages, hair, and makeup. We then sent over a photographer to take photos which we in turn had printed for the families. In true RCF form, this program has evolved once again. Inspired by our current families where we found the need for personal hygiene products so dire, we have created Comfort Baskets which are dropped off to Golisano Children’s Hospital and St. Joe’s Children’s Hospital in Tampa, FL. These baskets are for the family who took their child into the ED with a fever, or some persisting symptom, ultimately to be admitted with a cancer diagnosis and remain in the hospital for weeks to months at a time, with only the clothes on their backs. Our baskets have all the personal items that make a family feel comfortable and at home during their lengthy unexpected stays. Families can find things like cozy blankets and socks, universal phone chargers, toothbrush and toothpaste, razors, shampoo, conditioner and face wash. We have notebooks for all
those doctor instructions and questions that arise during the day, puzzle books for adults and children, coloring books and crayons, ear plugs to get some rest without the ongoing sound of the machines beeping all night. We know that helping a family feel more at ease during this difficult time will help alleviate stress while they continue their child’s fight.
C.O.P.E. (Courageously Overcoming Personal Experiences) is our newest program in the RCF. I spoke in March of 2024 at our Tampa Gala about the dire need for mental health services for our families. Services need to be immediately available to families in both states, at all stages of their journey. I also believe in fate. In attendance that evening was a recently retired licensed mental health therapist who felt in her heart she needed to step up. Shortly after the event, we developed C.O.P.E , a virtual group session divided between our bereaved and non-bereaved families that meets once every three weeks. I have coupled this program with a segment called Mason’s Off Ice Creations, to honor a hockey and food loving young man who passed away from complications from his treatments. To honor Mason, we feature recipes created by him, and send out cards to our families with one side containing reflections and coping mechanisms, and the other side with one of Mason’s recipes linked with a video for step by step directions. Our hope is that our families can take those moments to reflect upon their journey, then come together into the kitchen and create a wholesome meal together, all while honoring the children we have lost.
MJ: How does the foundation support families who are bereaved?
Kyla: I’ve always said and will continue to say, once a family enters into the arms of the Ryan Callahan Foundation, they are family members for life. Once a child passes, we don’t turn a family away. It is in these moments that families need the most support. We host bereavement nights in our suite. Upon arrival, our families are greeted by their babies’ smiling faces in photographs, which we had an artist morph into angels, positioned around our suite with a single rose next to it. We continue to speak their names to continue their legacy and all we have learned from their short time on earth. One teen in particular, Tony Colton, had a profound impact on the development of the RCF. Tony was with us from our inception, a teen who battled so fiercely all the while continuing to serve his community. It was during Tony’s final months on Earth that he threw a fundraiser for himself, to help his mom cover the cost of his funeral services. Tony never asked us for much over the years, but that moment he asked for a large sum of money to cover his funeral expenses. We provided him with those funds, but it was during a gala a few years ago when I spoke of Tony’s legacy that changed our course. Immediately following my speech, a six-foot-tall man ran over to me, tears streaming down his face, telling us he was a funeral director. He managed to fight through tears saying we needed to work together; no child should worry about the cost of their funeral and no parent should go into debt doing so. It was after this we developed Bridging Tony’s Legacy, currently only active in the state of Florida, that covers the entire cost of a child’s funeral, all donated by David, an angel sent to us.
MJ: How does the foundation determine which families receive assistance?
Kyla: We have a system in place for families to apply to our programming. They can be referred by a family friend, social worker at their hospital, another nonprofit organization or through a Google search. Once a general inquiry form has been completed, we reach out to their social worker to verify the family is a pediatric cancer family and gain a better understanding of their needs. We then schedule a face-to face meeting with our families. This serves the purpose of families getting to know who we are, but most importantly, we gain a deeper and more comprehensive understanding of our family’s immediate needs. After this meeting, our families complete a more extensive application for our database. In truth, we never turn a family away who is in need. I have learned through our tenure, the families who don’t ask for assistance are the ones in the greatest need.
MJ: What are the foundation’s goals for the future?
Kyla: We are currently running all our programming, aside from our Cally’s Crew suite, in both states. Our goal for the next five to seven years is to have a brick-and-mortar Ryan Callahan Foundation Center in Rochester, NY. I am envisioning an old historic home I will convert into a cozy space for our families. Right now, I rent space for our events and the activities that benefit our families. I personally run our foundation, without taking a salary. I have been running this independently for nine years, until I hired my first employee a year ago (my dear lovely aunt, who is a genius). I take pride in personally knowing, assisting and managing every single family who comes into our circle. I know our kids’ diagnosis, what their parents do for a living and what their favorite hobbies are. I know the hardships our families are experiencing. I personally text our families on a regular basis, just to check in to make sure things are going smoothly and to make sure they don’t need anything. I know the foundation is impacting our families, because I see it first-hand. I am a firm believer in getting people to hear our mission, listen to our story and firsthand see the difference we are making. Ryan and I started this non-profit to give back to the community by investing our own resources. We have poured so much of ourselves into this organization that we have grown substantially and have increased our community involvement significantly. If someone feels adamant about getting involved and wanting to help us help our community, then we will wholeheartedly accept a donation through our website, www.ryancallahanfoundation.org. We are also very active on Instagram @ryancallahanfdn We hold two Gala’s annually, one in Tampa, Florida and one in Rochester, NY. Our fundraisers give guests an immersive experience of who we are as a nonprofit.
dinh van collection
Menottes
Blurred Lines
The boundaries of photography, painting and printmaking don’t worry Sven Pfrommer—or limit the layered effects and explosions of color in his striking work.
We’re taught that practice makes perfect—but also warned not to let perfect become the enemy of the good. Berlin-born artist and photographer Sven Pfrommer, 59, has perfected an artistic approach (see how that verb creeps in?) that can be seen as embracing the imperfect. He’s spent much of his creative career traveling the world, capturing the subtleties of the people and the places—“exploring different cultures and different visual languages,” he says—and he knows that our planet is a place that resists neat, pat formulations. Cities, of course, are humankind’s stab at imposing order on space, and Pfrommer excels at depicting cities—but there’s often a feel of throbbing chaos in the air.
“I usually tend to work on a series at a time, given by theme or source of inspiration,” he says on his YouTube channel. In his London studio, Pfrommer creates “photograms” and digitally adds the blemishes for which his abstract pieces are known—littering black-and-white stills with dashes of color, blurring faces and silhouettes, turning a bright day into a stormy one.
Spotlighting the aesthetics of imperfection, the artist’s photographs, prints and mixed media have been seen in exhibits worldwide, including in galleries in the U.S., the U.K., Germany, Portugal and the Netherlands. In 2024, Pfrommer was commissioned to create pieces for the Maduro jazz club in Singapore and for what he calls a “hospitality interior project” in Chicago. (Sounds mysterious, but its acronym is clearly HIP.)
German-born contemporary artist Sven Pfrommer digitally enhances photos from his London studio to create photograms, photographic images made without a camera.
Opposite page: Pfrommer produced “Saigon Blur V” in 2016 as part of his “Human Blur Series.” The piece is based on his trip to Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, the previous year.
Mann’s
This page: Pfrommer used scanography art techniques (manipulating a flatbed scanner to make images) to create this framed piece for his abstract series. Opposite page: “Rainy Days in Hong Kong” is part of the artist’s lens blur photography series. The original image was shot on a stormy evening in the famous port city.
This page: “Fluid Horizon I” is from Pfrommer’s 2022 seascape photo series. “I experimented with found glass to create an abstract view on seaside horizons,” he says. Opposite page: This image is from Pfrommer’s “Watchtower I” series, a collection of photographs taken while the artist was observing daily life around a Myanmar public square in 2015.
electrified opulence
Rolls-Royce’s new Spectre isn’t the first EV or the one with the longest range. But: Rolls-Royce!
If you haven’t yet jumped aboard the electric-vehicle bandwagon, there’s news: Things just got serious. As it has done throughout its storied history, Rolls-Royce has rolled out a game changer and charged up the industry—this time with the release of the Spectre. A debut for the 2024 model year, the Spectre is not only the British manufacturer’s first ultra-luxury EV sports coupe, but it also creates a brand-new class for the automotive world. At first glance, the Spectre may resemble Rolls-Royce’s other coupe, the Wraith, but the similarities end with looks. Not only is the Wraith gaspowered, it’s built on an entirely different platform—in fact, the Spectre shares its platform with the Phantom, widely considered the most luxurious car in the world. That immediately elevates the Spectre to a level of prestige no other EV can claim.
But the Spectre won’t get by on its family name alone, and designers
know that. Beneath the hood is a fully electric, oh-so-silent powertrain with two motors that make a combined 577 horsepower and a 0-to-60 time of around 4.2 seconds. Those are strong numbers for a big vehicle: The Spectre weighs in at approximately 6,600 pounds (more than 1,300 more than the Wraith). There are expected luxuries that go into any Rolls-Royce, including state-of-the-art driver-assistance and safety features, hefty automatic doors (with driver’s side umbrella, of course), starry-night headliner, leather-trimmed seats and dashboard and touchscreen infotainment system. But most of the extra weight comes from the EV’s 102.0-kWh battery, which has a range of up to 290 miles on full charge. The efficiency numbers lag behind the Spectre’s closest competitors. If that’s a deal-breaker for you, let the next person claim your new electric Rolls.
The Spectre starts at $422K.
Ice Breaker
With timepieces this cool, you won’t have any trouble starting a conversation.
Shinola 40mm Limited Edition Mackinac Yacht Timer automatic chronograph with a stainless steel case and mesh bracelet, $3,650.
Frederique Constant 42mm Worldtimer automatic with a stainless steel case and a blue leather strap, $4,495. Mann’s
Tag Heuer 42mm Aquaracer Professional 300 GMT with a ceramic black and blue bezel and a stainless steel case and bracelet, $4,200.
love our snowy planet
With Ski-Doo’s new electrified snowmobile, your next wintry expedition across a blanket of white can be clean, comfortable—and quiet.
Make room, Tesla and Rivian, because the chionophiles have come out to play too. Canadian manufacturer BRP (Bombardier Recreational Products) has electrified its iconic Ski-Doo snowmobiles, and it’s now taking inquiries and orders for the 2025 Ski-Doo Grand Touring Electric Sled. This electric vehicle (EV) is a product of the company’s mission to add cleaner, eco-friendly models across every sector. (BRP is also the parent of other recreational brands, such as Can-Am motorcycles and Sea-Doo watercraft.)
The new snowmobile enjoyed a limited U.S. debut earlier this year, when five luxury ski resorts and recreation parks, including Grand Adventures outside of Winter Park, Colorado, introduced the EVs in their respective fleets.
Thus far, it’s been greeted with a warm welcome, as there’s much to love. Each sled boasts seating for two, a push-button start, digital gauges with a 10.25-inch touchscreen, heated throttle grips and high-performance LED headlights. Luxurious are the amenities, and so is the ride quality. That’s because a lithium-batterypowered, clutchless motor replaces a gas-fueled engine, creating a driving experience blessedly free of smoky fumes and engine noise. And, like any EV motor, Ski-Doo’s has plenty of torque, so climbing over snowy hills isn’t an issue. Want to feel like a lynx stealthily prowling the snow? This may be your best chance.
Ski-Doo, in fact, had a specific user in mind when it designed the Grand Touring edition. Owners who want to explore the immediate
snowy landscape around their vacation cabins will appreciate the exhaust-free ride and the model’s shorter track length, which allows maximum range along groomed and packed trails. On a full charge, the battery has a range of about 31 miles, based on a cruising speed of 15 miles per hour. That’s not a lot of range in the broader EV world (in comparison, a Tesla Model 3 gets up to 363 road miles on a single charge), but it’s plenty of mileage for a scenic jaunt around the resort. With shorter distances and a comfortable, cleaner ride, the company says the Grand Touring sled is ideal for taking friends around a wintry estate and perfect for introducing someone to the sport of snowmobiling. After all, everyone loves to play in the snow!
The Ski-Doo Grand Touring Electric Sled starts at $16,999.
THREE FOR THREE
A top sommelier picks varietals to match a trio of courses, assuring a dinner that will dazzle.
No law says you can’t get away with serving just one great wine at your next get-together. But maybe it’s your first for a while and you’d like to step it up. To make the evening truly memorable, you can pair each course of your meal with its own bottle, one chosen to complement its individual flavors. What might such a dinner be like? We asked Chris Cree, managing partner of New Jersey’s Cree Wine Company in Hampton, to be our sipping guide. Cree—one of only 56 Americans to have passed the MW Exam offered by the London-based Institute of Masters of Wine— picked some underappreciated and unexpected varietals to enjoy with each phase of the meal, from appetizer to entrée to dessert:
Charcuterie Appetizer
When assembling a plate of meat, cheese, fruit and veggies for a crowd, our expert prefers “crisp, clean unoaked whites or lighter reds with moderate tannin or acidity.” He says Italian whites seem to be the most popular companion for charcuterie plates at his store, but Cree prefers Spanish reds for this app pairing, specifically those from the Bierzo region. The one he recommends below “is an incredible wine from rock-star winemaker Raúl Pérez.” He describes the taste as “lovely, crunchy red and dark fruit notes, bright acidity, juicy mid-palate and softish tannins.” —Bottle to try: Bodegas y Viñedos Raúl Pérez, Bierzo Tinto Ultreia St. Jacques, 2019, $19.
Steak Entrée
Red is the way to go when enjoying a big, juicy steak, says Cree, because the tannins in red wine interact beautifully with the fatty flavors in the meat. For an herbed steak, “you can’t go wrong with a big Napa Cabernet or Bordeaux," he says. "If you’re firing up the barbecue, try Zinfandel. Its brambly, plush dark and red fruits, nice acidity, soft tannins and moderate oak work well with the smoky-sweet flavor of BBQ.” —Bottles to try: Favia Cabernet Sauvignon Oakville, 2018, $175; Bedrock Vineyards Old Vine Zinfandel, 2020, $25.
Chocolate Dessert
When eating something sweet such as milk chocolate, Cree prefers “sweet and lively” bottles with lots of berry fruit notes and bright acidity that contrast with the creamy chocolate taste. He loves dark chocolate with a Port, which has a sweet, complex flavor profile, and leans toward a dry Chenin Blanc, made with the ripest of white grapes, for white chocolate treats. His selection below for the latter is “sweetly concentrated” with “tropical fruit notes, lemon zest and grilled pineapple—underpinned by bright acidity.”
—Bottles to try: (dark chocolate) Niepoort Porto Colheita, 2007, $50; (milk chocolate) Marenco Pineto Brachetto d’Acqui, 2023, $25; (white chocolate) Huët Vouvray Le Mont Moëlleux Premiere Trie Chenin Blanc, 2022, $70.
