New York Lifestyles Magazine | February 2026

ONE ART SPACE STREET LEGENDS, MUSEUM CALIBER ARTISTS, TWO WOMEN GALLERISTS IN TRIBECA

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PUBLISHER’S LETTER

LOVE, ART, AND CITY MAGIC

s February unfolds, New York City leans into romance with a rhythm all its own — equal parts timeless and unexpected. Valentine’s Day here is not confined to a single evening, but woven into art-filled spaces, candlelit tables, neighborhood hideaways, and moments of shared discovery across the five boroughs. Love, in this city, is experienced in countless forms.

This issue of New York Lifestyles Magazine embraces that spirit. We spotlight One Art Space, where creativity becomes a conduit for connection, and explore how artistic expression continues to shape meaningful encounters. Our New York Minute column offers a curated look at Valentine’s Day experiences and happenings around the city, celebrating the many ways New Yorkers choose to mark the occasion.

Beyond the holiday, this issue also reflects the enduring allure of New York as a place where culture, style, and possibility intersect. From the arts and dining to fashion and design, we continue to celebrate the people and places that give the city its unmistakable energy.

Whether you’re celebrating with a longtime partner, a new love, or simply embracing the city you call home, we hope this issue inspires moments of connection, discovery, and joy. As always, we invite you to explore these stories and more — and to find your own version of romance, right here in New York City.

-Bill Mason Publisher

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OUR CONTRIBUTORS

Jon Salas

Jon Salas is a professional trend forecaster and onair fashion and lifestyle correspondent. He can regularly be seen on both English and Spanish language TV, sharing the latest trends from fashion and beauty to what’s viral and shaping broader culture. Tapped into New York’s fashion and haute lifestyle scene, you can follow him at @hellojonsalas to keep up with his latest.

Mindie Barnett

Mindie Barnett is a licensed psychotherapist. Her approach to therapy is humanistic which affords her clients a safe place to explore their inner most feelings. She promotes growth with newfound skillsets, confidence, and resilience. Mindie is experienced treating adolescents, families, and couples and is trained in a variety of therapy modalities including Psychodynamic Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectal Behavior Therapy (DBT) . She is experienced in treating mood disorders, anxiety, depression, and grief. She is a two-time self-help and leadership published author, and mental health news contributor. Mindie is a Licensed Associate Counselor (LAC) with an MA in clinical psychology from Pepperdine University and received her BA in journalism from Hofstra University.

Lori Dover

Lori Dover is the President and Founder of St. Huckleberry Animal Fund whose mission is creating a network of hope and a kinder world for all animals and the people who love them.

The advances and resulting impact of her self-funded mission, storm recovery philanthropy for pets and people, cruelty law revisions and transforming pet healthcare nationwide are featured in “Today,” “WSJ,” Oprah Winfrey’s new series, “Women Who Start Things,” published in “Oprah Daily,” and “Woman’s Day” magazine.

Professional career in art acquisition, business and commerce, and R&D in bringing pet safety innovation to market with QVC debut in 2019.

Avocational pursuits include chainsaw-cutting through the red tape, clog dancing to The Rolling Stones and skating on thin ice for the greater good.

Vol. 12 #2 | FEBRUARY 2026

President / Publisher BILL MASON

Art Director SCOTT CUOLLO

Contributors

Ruth J. Katz, Jenna Guarneri, Elizabeth Darwen, Norah Bradford, Peter Elston, Lillian Langtry, Stacey Zable, Irvina Lew, Jeff & Stephanie Sylva, Grant Ellison, Anne Raso, Clara Morgan, Melissa Billie Clark, Lori Dover, Michael McKensie

Columnists

Melanie Carden - Curated By Mel

John Salas - Le Haute Trend Report

Mindie Barnett - The MINDIE Method

Robert Massimi - On Broadway

Internet Presence Michael McKenzie

New York Sales Office  (646) 259-2651

Event Photography Annie Watt Photography.com

Editorial/Sales Fax (212) 202-4888

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Bill Mason Sr. - Director of New Business Development Don Fetherman - Director of Travel

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All rights reserved. Reproduction of any material from this issue is expressly forbidden without written permission of this publisher. Printed in the USA. New York Lifestyles is published 10 times a year. ©2015 - 2026 New York Lifestyles Magazine.

Agibalow for Hensel

FEATURES

FROM BATMAN TO BASQUIAT

STREET LEGENDS, MUSEUM CALIBER ARTISTS, TWO WOMEN GALLERISTS IN TRIBECA.

By Norah Bradford | Photos: Vital Agibalow for HENSEL

The story behind the Frame of MaryAnn Giella McCulloh and Mei Fung and One Art Space

One Art Space on Warren Street in Tribeca sits at street level behind a glass façade, bright enough in the afternoon that you can read the room in a single glance: walls alive with color, a clean openness to the floor, the sense that whatever is happening inside is meant to be shared.

That atmosphere, the sense that art should be part of regular life, is the result of how the gallery is run now: by co-owners

MaryAnn Giella McCulloh and Mei Fung, who stepped into the center of the story after the passing of Dan Giella, the gallery’s founder.

The arc that connects them is personal. It is also very New York: family, hustle, reinvention, and the stubborn belief that culture should not be reserved for people with the right vocabulary.

And it begins, oddly enough, with superheroes.

Before MaryAnn Giella McCulloh was negotiating exhibition schedules with artists and meeting collectors, she grew up around drawing as a daily practice. Her father, Joe Giella, who was hire by Stan Lee, who was one of the original Batman comic illustrators, part of a generation of artists who defined the look of American pop culture.

Decades later, Joe Giella’s work was recognized in 2006, the U.S. Postal Service released a DC Comics Superheroes stamp set that included images featuring his inking, including the cover of  Green Lantern and The Flash.  It was the kind of full circle moment that speaks to the Giella family’s particular place in American visual culture: art that traveled far beyond the studio and into the public’s hands.

MaryAnn talks about that upbringing as a training in range. They are different forms of storytelling, both capable of craft, emotion and resonance.

Dan Giella took that same instinct and applied it to the contemporary art world.

Dan was the original founder of One Art Space and gave it a straightforward purpose: show strong work, support artists, and keep the door open wide enough that the experience did not feel like a private club.

One Art Space has occupied a corner of downtown Manhattan since May 2011, offering a ground level gallery with natural light and an inviting view from the street. The space is about 1,700 square feet, intimate by New York standards and big enough to host a crowd without swallowing it.  On busy nights, the room becomes a kind of downtown civic square, where collectors and first-time buyers, artists and neighbors, critics and the casually curious end up shoulder to shoulder, talking through what they see.

Dan’s career moved between creative disciplines. He was a graduate of the School of Visual Arts, and he worked across design and art direction before building a gallery.  Friends and artists around One Art Space still tell a specific story about him: that he opened doors early and often, giving artists their first serious opportunities, introducing them to collectors, and treating their careers as worth the risk.

One of the projects he was proudest of, MaryAnn says, was creating an official New York City Marathon poster that visually brought the five boroughs together in a single image, a design job that doubled as a civic statement. Another was designing holiday cards for Meals on Wheels, a reminder that art is not only about galleries and sales but also about service.

Mei worked closely with Dan Giella, the founder of One Art Space, both at the gallery and as his longtime partner. For eight years, Mei supported Dan and helped sustain the gallery as he endured a prolonged illness, becoming a constant and compassionate presence - truly an angel to him.

MaryAnn Giella McCulloh, whose professional life had been built in high level corporate sales, stepped forward in a way to preserve and protect Dan’s legacy and vision and the culture of the gallery intimately, became the person responsible for its future.

MaryAnn’s path to the gallery’s front line did not begin in the art world’s traditional channels. She built a career in executive level sales and management, including long stretches on the Northeast corridor managing large regional territories, building training systems and sales manuals, and taking on the kind of corporate pressure that teaches you how to close, how to negotiate, and how to lead.

She also spent time as an independent logistics broker, handling million-dollar relationships, the sort of work she jokes was better than making other companies’ money because it finally made sense on her own terms.

Those details matter because they explain what changed after Dan’s passing. One Art Space did not become a different gallery. It became a gallery with a new kind of operating muscle.

Today, MaryAnn describes the job in the language of total immersion: full time, all the time. The gallery is not a side pursuit. It is a life. She has used her sales background to pull museum caliber and blue-chip names into a street level Tribeca space, while also keeping the gallery’s founding tone intact: accessible, conversation forward, and community minded.

If MaryAnn Giella McCulloh brings outward energy, deal making and visibility, Mei Fung brings steadiness and continuity. She worked closely with Dan as the gallery grew and has remained committed to his central idea: art should be approachable and community driven.

MaryAnn calls their partnership a yin and yang, opposite forces that create a dynamic bond. It is an image that lands because it describes what visitors actually feel: the gallery’s ability to be both welcoming and serious, both energetic and calm, both street level and museum aware.

Together, they have turned One Art Space into a place that can move comfortably between worlds: international contemporary artists such as Andrew Salgado, A Canadian-British contemporary artist based in London, Andrew Salgado is known for his large-scale, emotionally charged figurative paintings. His numerous sold-out exhibitions at One Art Space showcased his signature blend of portraiture, abstraction, symbolism, and richly textured surfaces—vibrant, layered and shared his exhibitions with audiences that include collectors, critics, and people walking in off the sidewalk.

The gallery built its reputation on one thing: backing women artists before the rest of the world caught up. Its international women’s exhibitions became so in demand they broke their own format—expanding into multiple shows to keep pace with the talent. Now running proudly for eight and ten consecutive years, these annual exhibitions don’t follow trends; they set them, placing bold, globally minded women artists exactly where they belong—at the center of the conversation.

Programming from late 2025 through early 2026 is a clear example of how that balance works. In October, One Art Space opened a solo show that reads like a statement of intent:  “An Empire Fallen,” by Al Diaz.   Diaz is not simply a contemporary artist. He is part of the DNA of downtown New York. A first-generation subway graffiti artist, he gained lasting recognition through SAMO, the cryptic street poetry collaboration with Jean Michel Basquiat that helped define the late 1970s avant garde moment. In “An Empire Fallen,” Diaz explored the collapse and reinvention of cultural empires through text, symbol and social commentary, pushing the viewer to confront how power, consumerism and history press against the present day.

MaryAnn Giella McCulloh frames Diaz as the kind of artist One Art Space was built to champion: “He embodies what One Art Space stands for, artists whose work tells the story of this city and its uncompromising creative spirit,” she says.

In November, One Art Space presented “Thread of Memory: The Language of Healing,” a solo exhibition by Korean artist Sung Min Jang, with a private VIP reception. The show explored memory as something fractured and layered, reconstructed through meditative textures, textile motifs and symbolic “threads.” MaryAnn calls the work “quiet but emotionally seismic,” and she emphasizes why it belongs at One Art Space: it connects people across cultures and lived experience without requiring an insider’s guide.

Taken together, the two exhibitions say something about the gallery’s curatorial identity under MaryAnn and Mei: it is not one aesthetic, but one standard. Art that carries a story. Art that asks something of you. Art that stays with you when you leave.

There is another name that repeatedly anchors that standard: Shepard Fairey.  One Art Space has shown and supported street art’s most recognizable voices, and MaryAnn does not hesitate when asked who defines the category in America. For MaryAnn and Mei, Shepard Fairey is a champion of the gallery and, in their view, the leading street artist in the United States, best known for the iconic Obama HOPE 2008 Campaign Poster and the legendary “André the Giant has a Posse” sticker that later evolved into the OBEY GIANT art campaign.

Fairey’s work has long fused street level graphic impact with activism and design. At One Art Space, the relationship is not just about a famous name on the wall. It is about alignment. Fairey personally selected the “Lotus Angel” for the gallery, a symbol of hope, compassion and resilience that has become a touchstone for what the space tries to hold: seriousness without elitism, accessibility without dilution.

That idea, that a piece of art can function as a kind of moral emblem, sits neatly alongside MaryAnn’s own way of describing her curatorial instincts. “Art should be felt, not just seen,” she says. “At One Art Space, we want people to walk in and feel part of the story.”

By January, the program returns to another core value: community as practice. That month, One Art Space hosted  “The Space Between Us,” a group exhibition curated by New York City based artist Mitchell Rodbell, bringing together 13 artists from The Art Students League, along with Board member, in a week-long presentation that explored connection, contrast and the emotional charge that lives in shared spaces. The reception included a VIP hour followed by a public opening, a format the gallery uses repeatedly because it mirrors its broader approach: welcome everyone, while still honoring the realities of the art market.

The winter season culminates with an exhibition designed to land with both cultural weight and emotional clarity: a February 2026 presentation of works by Purvis Young, timed to Black History Month and described by the gallery as including unseen works making their New York debut.

Young’s visual language is direct, compassionate and socially engaged. The exhibition centers on recurring themes of empathy, healing and the possibility of a better future, motif the gallery describes as a symbol of hope. Young’s work is held in major museum collections, including The Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Whitney Museum of American Art and the Smithsonian American Art Museum.  A VIP reception is planned for the first week of February, and the show runs through the month.

The programming says a great deal about what MaryAnn Giella McCulloh and Mei Fung has done since Dan’s passing: They have made One Art Space bigger without making it colder in keeping with the mission of the Gallery,  to create a place where the giants of art history and the visionaries of art’s future come together in One Art Space.

That mission is not abstract. You can see it in how the gallery links a family legacy of American illustration to a downtown street poetry lineage, how it moves from the historic force of Al Diaz to the meditative repair work of Sung Min Jang, how it presents community-based group shows in January and a Black History Month anchor in February.

MaryAnn Giella McCulloh took the reins at a moment when many galleries would have tightened, narrowed, and tried to protect themselves with exclusivity. Instead, she applied the instincts of a seasoned sales executive to the art world’s most unpredictable variable: people. She built visibility without losing authenticity. She kept the room open. She made sure the work remained strong enough to stand on its own.

Mei Fung held the continuity, honoring Dan Giella’s belief that art should be approachable, that community is not an accessory to the gallery but its structure.

From Batman to Basquiat is a catchy line, but in New York City it is also a map. It tracks the way images travel through the city: from comic panels to subway walls to museum collections to a glass fronted gallery where anyone can walk in, look up, and feel part of the story.

And in Tribeca, that may be the most contemporary idea of all.

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Yli Lirian

RYAN D. “JUME” JUMONVILLE

MAKING A LIFE BY GIVING

By Lori Dover

Winston Churchill once observed, “We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give.” It is a sentiment that has echoed through generations, but for Ryan D. “Jume” Jumonville, it is far more than a quotation—it is a guiding philosophy.

As Chairman of the board of United Networks of America, Jumonville has spent more than three decades building one of the nation’s largest providers of value-added managed care products and services. Today, the organization supports prescription drug, dental, vision, and ancillary care programs through a network of more than 240,000 providers, serving over 120 million members nationwide. Yet for Jumonville, success has never been defined solely by scale or financial performance.

A native of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, Jumonville has long believed that business and philanthropy are not separate pursuits, but complementary responsibilities. That belief is reflected in his participation in The Giving Pledge, a commitment made by some of the world’s most successful individuals to dedicate the majority of their wealth to charitable causes during their lifetime.

Over the years, Jumonville’s philanthropy has touched a wide spectrum of causes. His $4.5 million, decade-long partnership with Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals has helped support pediatric care for families across the country. Additional contributions have been directed to organizations such as the American Cancer Society, the ASPCA, the Alzheimer’s Association, and the Boys & Girls Clubs—each selected for their alignment with his values of care, dignity, and long-term impact.

Internationally, Jumonville has partnered with OTEPIC in Kenya through the Jume College-OTEPIC Kenya Project, supporting sustainable development initiatives in Kitale. The project focuses on permaculture, clean water access, food security, and community empowerment—investments designed not as temporary relief, but as enduring solutions.

Closer to home, a $1 million contribution to the Destin Charity Wine Auction Foundation has helped advance children’s charities across North Florida. The Jumonville family’s lifelong commitment to animal welfare has also led to transformative gifts, including funding that enabled Panhandle Wildlife Rescue to launch a full-scale rehabilitation center and wildlife hospital in Freeport, Florida, as well as a $1 million donation to Alaqua Animal Refuge to expand adoption services and rescue efforts.

In 2023, Jumonville’s commitment took another form when he helped abolish $100 million in medical debt for Florida families—an act of compassion that provided immediate relief to thousands facing overwhelming financial strain.

For Jumonville, impact—not accumulation—is the true measure of success. As he has said,  “We are the human race. No man, woman, or child should ever be left behind.” In a time defined by uncertainty, his approach offers a reminder that leadership, at its best, is measured by what it gives back.

CURATED BY MEL

WINTERTIME SUNDAYS, PERFECTED

By Melanie Carden

There are endless reasons to set aside a full, uninterrupted day of rejuvenation—the winter forecast, the political landscape, and the day-to-day blur of tech-driven agendas. I’d like to invite you to enjoy one of my favorite pastimes, cozy Sundays. Even if it’s just once a month, I set aside a full Sunday for off-grid delights—vinyl records, reading, puzzles, and all things cozy and rejuvenating. The perfect Sunday will look different for each of us—from watching World War II documentaries to sipping ceremonial cacao next to the fireplace. As a bonus, many of the ideas here make beautiful Valentine’s Day gifts.

SUNDAY CLUB

Subscribe to this lovely no news newspaper—a less than 20-page paper full of nothing but puzzles. Good ol’ paper and pencil puzzles, including crossword, word search, sudoku, and more. Select from subscriptions packages that include monthly delivery and bonus items, and shop for themed goods like totes and sweatshirts.

Info: sundayclub.com

HAND-FORAGED HOT TODDIES

The perfect snow-bound Sunday means something different to each of us, and I’m definitely open to a leisurely day of sipping hot toddies. Recently, I tried one using The Botanist Gin (of Islay, Scotland fame), known for its hand-foraged botanicals. It’s sublime. Here’s the recipe: 1.5 ounces of The Botanist gin, a quarter ounce of lemon, 3 ounces of Earl Grey tea, and honey. Enjoy!

Info: www.thebotanist.com/en-us

Consider this magnificent throw from Intertwined for an intentionally cozy Sunday. It’s handcrafted by Mayan artisans in the mountains of Momostenango, Guatemala. The sheep’s wool is gathered, cleaned, and hand-spun into yarn’s, which are then dyed using natural materials like seeds and vibrantly hued fauna. Each blanket is then carried to a natural volcanic hot spring, where it’s felted and softened.

Info: intertwinedforgood.com

FRENCH ONION SOUP

It’s Sunday, and it’s bone-chillingly cold. Hunker down and make a cozy batch of French onion soup topped with the cheese recently named the best in the world at the 2025 World Cheese Awards. Switzerland’s Gruyère AOP Vorderfultigen Spezial went up against 5,200 other cheeses for the title and was crowned victorious. Read about it in Food and Wine Magazine and get your soup crocks ready.

Info: www.gruyere.com/en/home

SUNDAYS ARE FOR PAJAMAS

Olive & Cocoa’s Radiant Rouge Striped Pajamas are as comfortable as they are stunning. Lounge all day, reading or binge watching your favorite shows. Whether your Sunday goals include croissants or bowls of lazy-day cereal, this set is ready for whatever your cozy day agenda has in store. The tailoring is roomy and the colors are vibrant—perfect for a day of indulgence.

Info: www.oliveandcocoa.com

TEA, OF COURSE

Mark T. Wendell Tea Company dates back to 1904, and the depth of their tea roster is staggering. As the cold weather continues, explore their winter teas, including Marzipan Walnut Rose (black) and Vanilla Bourbon Rooibos (herbal). You can also read about and stock up on teas with targeted health benefits. Personally, I adore lounging by the woodburning fireplace with a pot of piping hot tea, but it’s just as satisfying enjoyed from a travel mug, on a blustery winter walk. Info: marktwendell.com

WANDERLUST, DELIVERED

A postcard subscription? The company Around the World in 80 Cards has managed to merge the nostalgia of childhood pen pals with the wonder of world travel. They describe it as a “curated monthly postcard subscription that delivers authentic, handwritten postcards from locals or travelers around the globe.” In a world of high-speed everything, these postcards provide moments of slow, authentic connection. Info: 80cards.com

NAKED CASHMERE

Naked Cashmere’s Evelina Brushed Cashmere Polo is handsdown my favorite Sunday wardrobe piece. It’s insanely soft and thicker than you’d guess from looking at a photo—one of those pieces that makes you audibly ooh and aah when you open the package. It feels wonderful against the skin and is perfectly chic with leggings or jeans if you decide to dash to the coffee shop.

Info: www.nakedcashmere.com

SATURDAY SAUCE

The label says Saturday, but it’s equally delicious on Sundays— or whatever day you’re craving some savory goodness. Sababa Foods seems to have bottled up my lazy weekend goals—a soulful dinner without too much effort. A jar of Saturday Sauce and fresh fish. That’s a meal, and it’s aromatic and entirely satisfying. I added fresh vegetables, roasted it, together, in a pan, and served over quinoa.

Info: www.sababa-foods.com

ZERO-PROOF BLISS

Beautifully crafted zero-proof mocktails also offer an opportunity to create small ritual-centric moments. I make edible flower ice cubes on Saturdays, in preparation for coupe glasses full of non-alcoholic SeedLip mocktails. The brand’s Spice 94 ia favorite this winter with its warm cardamom and citrus notes. I mix it with elegant sparkling water varieties, ranging from elderberry to blood orange.

Info: www.seedlipdrinks.com/en-us

CEREMONIAL CACAO FROM PERU

I enjoyed ceremonial cacao every morning while in Guatemala last year, so I was delighted to discover the Peruvian brand Cacao Adventures. All of their products are created from heirloom cacao, grown in small Peruvian communities. The brand offers everything from quick-melting coins to cacao pastes and blocks. Keep a bag of High-Amazon Basin Ceremonial Grade Cacao on hand to create a healthful Sunday sipping ritual.

Info: www.cacaoadventures.com

DARK HUMOR TO BRIGHTEN THE DAY

Thurber Prize-winner and New York Times bestselling author John Kenney’s latest book, I See You’ve Called in Dead, proves to be this winter’s literary elixir. Described as, “The Office meets Six Feet Under meets About a Boy,” it’s the story of an obituary writer who is afraid to live and finds a zeal for everyday life through a series of dark-yet-laughable work follies.

Info: zibbymedia.com

LE HAUTE TREND REPORT

2026 IS THE NEW 2016 - THE SEASON’S BIGGEST STYLE COMEBACKS TO LOOK CHIC IN THE CITY

By Jon Salas

What started as a trend on social media about looking back at 2016 and comparing our own unique style evolutions over the span of a decade, has erupted in a fashion movement where the industry is currently locked in on the styles and trends that defined an era. While some may remember 2016 as a year full of Hamilton-mania and countless film reboots that brought beloved characters such as Bridget Jones back on our screens, the style savants will recall this was the year when street style took on a life of its own and where sporting casual was haute, haute, haute.

ACCESSORIES

WITH THE ‘IT’ FACTOR…

In 2016, pop culture taught us to ‘walk into the room purse first,’ meaning lead with your accessories, which very much embodied the style sentiment of the year, and this 2026, you can expect this to also reign true as this year will be all about statement pieces and building looks around them.

If you have a vintage Balenciaga shopper tote or the classic Chloe Marcie bag that were all the rage ten years back, now is the time to bring them out of hibernation, or perhaps consider doing an eBay dive to see what classic millennial gems you can find.

This however is still 2026 and if we want to give ‘It’ accessories a modern spin, one way to do that is to lean into bold shapes and cuts. A trending name in statement pieces is Brooklyn’s own, Alexis Bittar, whose earrings, cuffs and unmistakable clutches have become a favorite of Hollywood’s A-List, from Madonna, Beyoncé, Meghan Markle and beyond, his avant garde design and use of fine materials has made Bittar one of the most viral and trending names in fashion.

This season is all about dialing up the edge so don’t be afraid to go for the loud accessories – more is more. Think bold colors and textiles, abstract shapes and dramatic sizes – if it looks ‘out of the box,’ then it’s on trend for the year. Having a mute outfit is okay because your accessories will be doing the talking.

ARE SKINNY JEANS BACK? NOT QUITE…

If you were one of the many who had a sigh of relief when we buried skinny jeans six-feet-under a few years back, don’t get too comfortable as fitted silhouettes are making a comeback – they were peak 2016 after all.

While barrel jeans and wide leg pants are still very much in order for the year ahead, tapered pants are also on the menu for this season. Skinny pants don’t equate to compression pieces so avoid trousers that cut off circulation. There is such a thing as ‘too tight,’ and we’re not there yet. This is a trend that fashion is slowly reintroducing so rather than going for pants that look like a second layer of skin, look for pants that are a bit more cigarettestyle in shape. Consider darker tones if you’re looking for an elevated look. COS and Banana Republic are great for chino-style fitted pants while Diesel and AG Jeans continue to be the lead authority in denim. If you want an overall interesting look, add contrast by pairing the pants with a voluminous, or oversized top.

BOMBSHELL STYLE STARTS WITH A BOMBER JACKET…

And what is more voluminous than a bomber jacket? For both men and women, this was a wardrobe staple. Whether in leather with Sherling or made out of nylon green, it was impossible to walk a block of the city and not find one on the street.

The appeal behind these jackets is their versatility to style and their insulated comfort. They’re a piece you can sport when running errands or heading down to your local Joe & The Juice but they are also a statement piece you can wear on an evening night out, especially if made from leather and finer textiles. From Loewe to Lululemon, there’s no shortage of these jackets that have seemingly popped up on racks everywhere and as we segue into Spring, expect these to spot these around every neighborhood.

A CASUAL STEP IS A BOLD CHOICE…

To complete the 2016 aesthetic, one fundamental piece is having a good sneaker game. Ten years ago, we saw a public obsession over Golden Goose and just about every other NFL and NBA player was rocking a pair of Air Jordans, which shaped fashion forever. Since then, style maisons of the likes of Louis Vuitton, Hermes, Dior and others have fully curated new sneaker drops that have become a staple of every collection, season after season. This year is no different and we’re leaning back into sneaker culture but looking for an elevated twist. Marni’s Nappa leather sneakers have become a crowd favorite as have the unisex Squish sneakers from Scandinavian brand Axel Arigato, who brings a playful silhouette reminiscent of the 70s. If the disco era could go back and time and redesign sneakers, the Squish style would be it. This is also an area where going bold pays off – after all, footwear is the original accessory.

Overall, the season ahead is about being unapologetically you and having fun with bold shapes and styles. While we are taking inspiration from the past, what will make it modern and fresh is bringing any unique nuances that represent you today. Fashion is not formulaic, it’s all about evolution, and in the end is a form of self-expression so take risks, and repeat what works. And to see what new styles will be trending next Fall, check back next month as we recap runway highlights from New York Fashion Week.

WOODLOCH IN THE WINTER

A WINTER GETAWAY THAT TURNS COLD DAYS INTO LASTING MEMORIES

By Joseph J. Ranner | Photos Ctsy: Woodloch

Once the holiday glow fades and summer still feels far off, winter can start to drag—especially for travelers itching to get away. But the colder months don’t have to be a season of waiting. In fact, winter can be the perfect time to escape.

Just two hours from Manhattan, Woodloch offers a snow-covered retreat that embraces the season rather than hiding from it. Set in the heart of Pennsylvania’s Pocono Mountains, the resort transforms winter into a playground—welcoming families, couples, and multigenerational groups looking for warmth, energy, and connection when they need it most.

Woodloch Pines Family Resort first opened its doors in 1958 with a simple mantra: to treat each and every guest as if they were company in their own home. Four generations later, that philosophy still defines the experience. Spread across 135 acres of picturesque Pocono Mountains landscape, Woodloch offers comfortable lodging in both hotel-style accommodations and spacious vacation homes, along with hearty family-style meals, nightly entertainment, and a robust activities program designed for guests of all ages.

Winter at Woodloch begins with the roar of the resort’s snow cannons. Regardless of how many natural flakes fall, piles of fresh powder are ready for lakeside tubing fun. Whether you’re a wide-eyed child with endless energy or someone fondly recalling the magic of snow days past, it’s a chilly thrill you’ll want to experience again and again. Outdoor amenities such as go-karts and the archery range remain open year-round, keeping the action going no matter the season. Ice skating is weather proof with a synthetic covered rink.

One of the things that truly sets Woodloch apart is its spirited sense of competition. The excitement surrounding the resort’s activities—and the pursuit of gold medals—is contagious. Winter’s marquee event is the Family Olympics, where guests tackle six relay-style challenges across a snow-filled battleground, all in pursuit of a coveted medal. It’s energetic, inclusive, and emblematic of what makes Woodloch’s programming so engaging.

When it’s time to warm up, Woodloch offers just as many memorable indoor experiences. Guests can enjoy game-showstyle trivia, scavenger hunts, gymnasium athletic contests, kids’ club events, and more. For those seeking pure relaxation, the indoor pool complex is a welcome retreat, complete with hot tubs, a kiddie splash park, and even an indoor waterslide. With more than 30 scheduled activities each day, no two days at the resort ever feel the same.

Evenings bring another layer of entertainment. Each night features family-friendly performances on the theater stage, from live music and magicians to a Broadway-style musical revue. Guests can also unwind with coffee or a seasonal cocktail by one of the outdoor fire pits. As the night goes on, the energy continues with DJ dance parties or karaoke—just be sure to rest up, because the next day promises even more.

That balance is what keeps guests returning year after year. Winter at Woodloch isn’t about escaping the cold as much as embracing it in ways that feel joyful and effortless. From early morning activities to late-night gatherings, there’s a rhythm to each day that allows guests to be as active—or as relaxed—as they choose. Families move easily between outdoor adventures and indoor comforts, while couples and multigenerational groups find plenty of opportunities to connect without feeling rushed.

Even simple moments take on added warmth during the winter months. A shared laugh during a friendly competition, the quiet satisfaction of warming up after a day outside, or the glow of firelight at the end of the evening all become part of the story guests take home with them. At Woodloch, winter isn’t something to endure until spring arrives—it’s a season that invites participation, presence, and lasting memories long after the snow has melted.

For more information or to plan a winter escape, visit woodloch.com or call 570-685-8000, option 1

The surrounding area offers additional opportunities to explore. Beginners and seasoned skiers alike will appreciate nearby Ski Big Bear, located just 15 minutes down the road, where Woodloch guests can take advantage of discounted lift tickets. For those craving peace and quiet, The Lodge at Woodloch provides a serene counterpoint to the family resort. Recognized as one of the world’s premier destination spas, the Lodge offers snowshoeing, classes and lectures, gourmet cuisine, and a full menu of rejuvenating spa treatments. It’s an ideal escape for couples, girlfriends’ getaways, or anyone seeking a tranquil retreat between moments of family fun.

Winter has a way of slowing things down—but at Woodloch, it does the opposite. Days are filled with activity, evenings bring laughter and entertainment, and the season itself becomes part of the experience. Whether you’re racing through the snow, relaxing poolside, or savoring a quiet moment by the fire, a winter stay here offers something rare: a getaway that feels both invigorating and comforting at the same time.

LANSDOWNE RESORT

NORTHERN VIRGINIA’S PREMIER GOLF AND SPA RESORT ESCAPE

By Irvina Lew

Spring arrives early in Virginia, where Lansdowne Resort in Loudoun County is an idyllic destination that occupies a former riverside plantation in Leesburg, just 30 miles outside Washington, D.C., only 12 miles from Dulles International Airport, and about a four-hour drive from Manhattan. The independently owned, AAA Four-Diamond award-winning property offers extensive resort and recreational amenities, including a tempting spa and wide-ranging meeting opportunities all conveniently located within easy access to the capital’s historic and cultural sites and the bucolic pleasures of North Virginia’s rural wine country, with its engaging vineyards and charming villages.

I first visited the resort for a wedding weekend in August 2025. As we arrived at the resort from the nation’s capital, I got a sense of the verdant countryside as we were driven through the master-planned Lansdowne residential golfing community and up the long drive leading to the resort. Once registered, we went to our hosts’ suite, one of thirteen, where they offered an all-day welcome buffet. I took my plate outside to a table on their upper-floor balcony (the center section of the hotel soars to ninestories) and viewed the natural undulations of the picturesque 500-acre, Potomac River Valley golf course setting. I could see a stand-alone pavilion and surrounding pools, one with a large, curved slide. I hadn’t yet discovered the paved golf cart path and walkway through the adjacent Virginia Elizabeth Mills Riverfront Park—the 122-acre forest buffer that meanders across small streams, wetlands and alongside the Potomac River, a path that entices walkers and golfers alike to appreciate wildlife and the beauty of nature.

Later, we relaxed in our own spacious room, one of 296, which had a contemporary décor and a window wall with a similar view. (Corner rooms, we later discovered, have two sets of windows and a broader view.) Our room provided two queen size beds, a chair with ottoman, a| 55” HD LCD flat-screen TV and an oversized workstation with high-speed Wi-Fi. There’s a mini refrigerator, coffee & tea maker, a safe, plus a well-lit vanity and a nicely equipped bathroom. Amenities include bathrobes, hair dryer and iron & ironing board.

In-house dining options vary enough not to have to leave the resort for meals and include the casual kiosk-style Riverside Hearth, which views the landscape. Here, lettuce, herbs and microgreens are hydroponically grown in their kitchen garden and eggs are cooked-to-order. Piedmont’s Pub serves casual fare and locally distilled spirits, craft brews and wines. And, for dinner, the tavern fare at Coton & Rye—named for the property that stood on this very land in the late 1700s—features freshfrom-local-farm ingredients incorporated into Old Dominion recipes. Harmony Market, adjacent to the registration desk, sells a selection of snacks and beverages.

Piedmonts in The Clubhouse at Lansdowne Resort, with its floorto-ceiling stone fireplace and sun-dappled terrace serves modern American fare overlooking the Greg Norman Golf Course and Potomac River; the building also houses a casual pub called Turnberry’s, which is situated between holes 9 and 10 on the Greg Norman Course. (In warm weather, the family-friendly Current’s Pool & Grill, supplies sit-down bites and grab-and-go fare.)

The sprawling grounds lure novice-to-accomplished golfers; some take lessons or practice all aspects of their game. Resort guests and members enjoy 45 holes of golf on either the nine-hole Greg Norman SharkBite course, with its five sets of tees; the two 18-hole layouts on Norman’s 7,332-yard, par-72 dubbed “hardest mile in golf,” or the challenging Robert Trent Jones Jr. Course, a classic 7,063-yard, par-72 golf course. According to DC’s Modern Luxury Magazine, it’s the Best Loudoun County Golf Resort 2024.

For pampering and relaxation, the 12,000-square-foot Spa Minérale boasts an expansive spa menu of services that change seasonally and take place in 12 Personal Treatment Rooms and two Twin Treatment Rooms. Guests have access to the Steam Rooms, Dry Saunas, Whirlpools, Relaxation Lounges and the Hair & Nail Salon. Spa guests can also take advantage of preferential mid-week pricing for favorites that include Spa Minérale’s Signature Relaxation Massage, Therapeutic Deep Tissue, and Hot Stone Massage, as well as popular body treatments such as Satin Skin, CBD Bliss, and Herbal Detox. Guests can also refresh their skincare routine with advanced facials, including HydraFacial, GLO2 Oxygenation Facial, and Custom Signature Facials.

I took advantage of the hotel’s indoor lap pool and its adjacent, large whirlpool tub on three occasions. This “wet” area is reached through the high-tech fitness facility and accesses one of the three outdoor pools, part of an outdoor Aquatic Complex that even offers private cabanas. Two lighted outdoor tennis courts and three pickleball courts add to the recreational options.

For New Yorkers seeking a destination meeting place or party venue, the Lansdowne conference center caters to a business clientele with 55,000 square feet of meeting space and has earned the distinction as the best in the DC-area. Among the variety of indoor venues, including a state-of-theart Thinking Center, there’s a 9,525 square foot ballroom, (which I happened to see decorated for a large, formal and very Chi-Chi wedding), plus an open-air 3,500-square-foot covered pavilion nestled into the idyllic setting.

Lansdowne Resort is extraordinarily well-located with tempting Golf, Spa, Seasonal or Wine Country Packages that provide guests personalized opportunities according to their interests.

For more information on Lansdowne Resort visit: lansdowneresort.com

THE PERFECT PIVOT

HOW TO DO A WINTER-TO-SPRING WEEKEND IN THE BERKSHIRES

By Norah Bradford

In the Berkshires, winter does not simply fade. It evolves. One day you are chasing corduroy at a local mountain, the next you are warming up inside a world class museum, and not long after that you are walking spring paths that hint at the region’s greener season ahead. For travelers plotting a quick escape from the Northeast grind, this corner of western Massachusetts offers a pristine, satisfying formula: ski now, culture always, then return for tulips and longer afternoons.

Start with the simple truth of Berkshire winter: the downhill season is finite, and most ski areas typically close around mid-March. That makes late December through early March the sweet spot for visitors who want reliable mountain time without pushing their luck. The good news is you have options, each with its own personality.

If your group likes the idea of stretching the day beyond daylight, point the car toward Bousquet Mountain, known for being the first ski area in North America to have lights for night skiing.  Night laps can be a game changer for weekenders arriving after work or anyone who wants a full day without a pre-dawn start. New this season at the base of Bousquet, you can enjoy a sauna experience from HUHT mobile saunas. For a bigger mountain feel, Jiminy Peak Mountain Resort is billed as the largest ski area in Massachusetts.  It is a solid choice for mixed ability crews where some skiers want longer runs while others want a more relaxed pace and plenty of breaks. Ski Butternut brings a fresh seasonal hook, having added a new lift this year, which is exactly the kind of upgrade that makes repeat visitors notice.  And for those who like variety, Catamount Mountain Resort rounds out the winter sports short list.  For the non-skiers in your group consider an afternoon of snow tubing; most of the Berkshire ski areas boast this option. Berkshire East offers three 500’ long tubing lanes of fun which is great for the whole family.

A smart Berkshire weekend builds in a second act, because not every traveler wants two straight days in boots. That is where the region’s cultural backbone makes trip planning easy. On a cold afternoon, swap goggles for galleries. The Clark Art Institute offers free admission from Jan. 1 through March 31, 2026, an inviting window for winter and early spring visitors who want a high value add to the itinerary.  MASS MoCA adds the energy of exhibits, shows and events, the kind of place that keeps the conversation going over dinner because everyone sees something different. The Norman Rockwell Museum is also a great option. You can take in his illustrations plus remarkable exhibits by other renowned illustrators from around the country.

Then comes the shift that makes the Berkshires feel like a destination you can revisit without repeating yourself. If you can return in spring, put Naumkeag House and Gardens on the calendar. The annual tulip show usually runs mid-April through mid-May, though the 2026 dates have not yet been announced.  It is the kind of seasonal marker that changes the entire tone of a trip: the same roads you drove through snow become a prelude to color, gardens, and that first real sense that winter is done. If you are a bird watcher, be sure to visit Pleasant Valley as the season gets warmer and see how many of our feathered friends you can spot.

No matter what the season, where you stay can tilt the vibe from classic to adventurous. For travelers who want something new and different, the list includes Prospect Berkshires and Huttopia Berkshires, both strong starting points when the goal is to make lodging feel like part of the story, not just a place to sleep.  If your style leans more traditional, consider 33 Main, Doctor Sax House, Element Lenox Berkshires or TOURISTS WELCOME.  The best approach is to choose your base with your weekend rhythm in mind: closer to the slopes if mornings matter, closer to town if dinner plans are non-negotiable, or something in between if you want to do a bit of everything.

And in the Berkshires, “a bit of everything” is often the point. Après is not a single hour. It is a sequence. Start with a table at Casita or Pizzeria Boema when you want casual comfort and the satisfaction of a meal that feels earned after time outside.  Go a touch more polished at The Barn Kitchen and Bar, a natural pick for date night or the meal you build the weekend around.  If you want your night to come with a soundtrack, head to The Lion’s Den at The Red Lion Inn, which offers live music and an easy reason to linger.

For a final stop, choose a tasting that fits your group. Berkshire Mountain Distillers, Inc. delivers the craft spirits angle, while Balderdash Cellars covers the winery lane, ideal for the kind of low-key afternoon that still feels like an event.

The Berkshires reward travelers who plan for weather and plan around it. Build a trip with two outdoor anchors and one indoor headline, and you will feel like you beat the season instead of fighting it. Go now for the slopes before the mid-March close, then keep the museums in your back pocket for any day the temperature drops.  And when spring begins to show up for real, come back for tulips, longer light, and the satisfying feeling that you are seeing the region in a whole new outfit.

Imagine yourself reclining on the sandy white beaches, soaking in the volcanic mud baths of Soufrière, ziplining through lush rainforests, indulging in authentic island food, club-hopping on the Rodney Bay strip, and riding ATVs through the countryside. Envision exploring abandoned sugar plantations, snorkeling in crystal clear waters, chasing brightly colored fish in the shadow of the Pitons, or experiencing a live sea turtle hatching in the last light of dusk.

Equal parts beauty and mystique, Saint Lucia captivates anyone who sets foot on her coastline. Always evocative, she welcomes visitors with her soothing waves, warm beaches, and hospitable people. The only sovereign nation to be named for a woman, the island personifies adventure and inspiration. Her visitors invariably find themselves reluctant to leave and eager to return. Your Next Adventure Awaits....

THE CHANCERY ROSEWOOD

LONDON’S FORMER U.S. EMBASSY BECOMES MAYFAIR’S NEW POWER ADDRESS

By Norah Bradford | Photos: Ctsy. Ben Anders

London rarely retires a landmark. It repurposes it. In Mayfair’s Grosvenor Square, a building once defined by diplomacy has taken on a new role in the city’s cultural life. The Chancery Rosewood has opened in the former U.S. Embassy, introducing an all-suite hotel that pairs a midcentury architectural pedigree with a contemporary emphasis on dining, art, and wellness.

The building’s origin story is part of its appeal. Designed in 1960 by Finnish American architect Eero Saarinen, it is recognized for its distinctive exterior geometry and its place in London’s postwar architectural landscape. Its latest chapter follows a meticulous restoration led by British architect Sir David Chipperfield, with development by Qatari Diar Europe LLP. The result is a return to prominence for a Grade II listed structure, updated for modern use while keeping its identity intact.

One of the most recognizable details remains high above the square. A gilded eagle sculpture by Theodore Roszak, made from aluminum associated with B 52 bomber aircraft, presides over views that stretch from the greenery of the square toward London’s skyline. It is a flourish that nods to the building’s American ties without turning the property into a museum piece. The point is not nostalgia. It is continuity, with the hotel positioning itself as a place where history becomes atmosphere rather than theme.

Inside, the approach is quiet and composed. French interiors architect Joseph Dirand designed the hotel’s 144 suites and communal areas with an emphasis on proportion, texture, and calm. Floor to ceiling windows draw daylight deep into the building, and warm tones, paired with subtle metallic accents, are used to complement the original stone façade. The effect is residential in spirit, even in the larger public spaces, with the building’s strong architectural lines softened by materials that invite lingering.

The building’s origin story is part of its appeal. Designed in 1960 by Finnish American architect Eero Saarinen, it is recognized for its distinctive exterior geometry and its place in London’s postwar architectural landscape. Its latest chapter follows a meticulous restoration led by British architect Sir David Chipperfield, with development by Qatari Diar Europe LLP. The result is a return to prominence for a Grade II listed structure, updated for modern use while keeping its identity intact.

One of the most recognizable details remains high above the square. A gilded eagle sculpture by Theodore Roszak, made from aluminum associated with B 52 bomber aircraft, presides over views that stretch from the greenery of the square toward London’s skyline. It is a flourish that nods to the building’s American ties without turning the property into a museum piece. The point is not nostalgia. It is continuity, with the hotel positioning itself as a place where history becomes atmosphere rather than theme.

Inside, the approach is quiet and composed. French interiors architect Joseph Dirand designed the hotel’s 144 suites and communal areas with an emphasis on proportion, texture, and calm. Floor to ceiling windows draw daylight deep into the building, and warm tones, paired with subtle metallic accents, are used to complement the original stone façade. The effect is residential in spirit, even in the larger public spaces, with the building’s strong architectural lines softened by materials that invite lingering.

Accommodation is organized around a hierarchy of suites, including Junior Suites, Suites, Signature Suites, and a collection of Houses designed for longer stays, larger parties, or hosting. Several are named for Americans linked to the building’s past, including the Saarinen House, John Adams House, Kennedy House, and the Chancery House. At the top of the property sit two penthouses, Charles House and Elizabeth House, each with a landscaped terrace, dining space, kitchen and bar set up, and a primary bedroom anchored by a dramatic marble bath.

Service is designed to feel less procedural and more personal. Stays are offered with flexible arrival and departure times, reducing the stop start cadence of the typical hotel schedule. Instead of a conventional check in at a front desk, guests are met on arrival and guided directly to their suites. Transfers in a house car are built into the experience, and guests in the Signature Suites and Houses have the option of private butler support.

Dining is central to the property’s identity and its ambitions for the neighborhood. The hotel’s eight restaurants and bars are accessible from ground level, encouraging a steady flow that is not limited to overnight guests. The anchor name for many travelers will be Carbone, the New York City favorite making its first European appearance here. Around it, the lineup is designed to read like a map of moods rather than a single culinary statement.

Serra focuses on Southern Mediterranean flavors inspired by the coasts of southern Italy and Greece. Jacqueline is conceived as a tearoom and dessert salon, led by executive pastry chef Marius Dufay, with an emphasis on seasonality and a polished sense of presentation. Tobi Masa marks the London arrival of chef Masayoshi “Masa” Takayama and his modern Japanese cuisine. GSQ plays the role of neighborhood delicatessen, serving coffee, pastries, salads, sandwiches, and shareable snacks, with a takeaway counter and retail pantry touches that make it feel like a daily stop, not a special occasion.

Upstairs, Eagle Bar is positioned as a rooftop destination with a wraparound terrace, cocktails, elevated bar snacks, and music programming developed with a vinyl first East London collective. It is the kind of detail that signals the hotel’s broader strategy: respect the building’s stature but keep the energy current.

That balance continues in the hotel’s art program, which is treated as a living collection rather than décor. The property includes an art concierge and roughly 700 artworks curated with the London based consultancy Cramer and Bell. Pieces span mediums and styles, with commissions created for specific locations throughout the building. Among the artists represented are British painter Sir Christopher Le Brun, whose work appears above a main fireplace, and textile designer Sussy Cazalet, whose pieces are placed in the entrance hall. Within guest suites, artist Anthony Grace was commissioned to create a substantial body of work that references American landmarks, past presidents, and Saarinen’s design legacy.

Wellness has been given equal billing. The Asaya Spa sits below ground in a space designed by Yabu Pushelberg and includes a 25-meter (80’) swimming pool, five treatment rooms, and a fitness center equipped with Technogym’s Artis Luxury line. Facilities also include sauna and steam areas, relaxation spaces, and personal training options.

A key differentiator is The Taktouk Clinic, led by Dr. Wassim Taktouk, which integrates dermatological expertise with a broader approach to wellbeing. The spa’s treatment offering also includes partnerships and concepts that bring skincare science and aromatherapy into the menu, alongside more traditional face and body experiences. For Londoners looking for a club like rhythm, tiered memberships are available, offering access to facilities and added benefits such as fitness assessments and preferred booking options.

The hotel is also built for gatherings on a grand scale. A state-of-the-art ballroom is designed to accommodate up to 750 guests, supported by salons, foyer space, and additional event areas that can shift from intimate celebrations to major industry evenings. In a part of London where private rooms and heritage venues abound, the Chancery’s pitch is capacity plus modern infrastructure, wrapped in a building that carries its own story.

The Chancery Rosewood joins Rosewood Hotels and Resorts’ global portfolio, which spans dozens of luxury properties across multiple countries, shaped by the company’s emphasis on reflecting local culture through design and experience. In London, that philosophy lands in a building many people have walked past for years. Now, the doors open for a new kind of visitor, one arriving not with credentials but with curiosity.

For more information visit: www.rosewoodhotels.com/en/the-chancery-rosewood

NEIGHBORHOOD DESTINATIONS

HOWARD BEACH

By Melissa Billie Clark

In a city defined by iconic skylines and ever-shifting neighborhoods, Howard Beach in southwestern Queens stands as a singular place where New York’s restless energy meets the calm of its waterfront. Founded in 1897 by William J. Howard, this coastal community was once known as the “Venice of Long Island” for its estuary-laced landscape and remains anchored in a strong sense of place and identity.

Perched between Jamaica Bay and the Belt Parkway, Howard Beach’s charm springs from its unique blend of suburban calm and urban convenience. With a population around 30,000, it encompasses distinct enclaves such as Old Howard Beach, Rockwood Park, Lindenwood, and Hamilton Beach— each with its own architectural vernacular and history.

Much of the residential fabric dates back to the early- and mid-20th century: Cape Cod-style homes from the postWorld War II boom mingle with ranches, Tudors, and a sprinkling of more recent residences. In Rockwood Park, marshland filled after the war gave way to single-family houses and later, larger homes that signal the neighborhood’s steady appeal.

Today’s real-estate scene reflects Howard Beach’s desirability. Single-family homes typically sell in the approximate range of $500,000 to $1.5 million, while two-family houses and co-ops can command strong prices in a market marked by limited inventory. Condominiums, a staple of the Lindenwood area, are often priced starting in the  mid$200,000s up to the high-$300,000s for larger units. Rental options likewise remain competitive, with average monthly figures aligning with other sought-after Queens enclaves.

Central to everyday life is Cross Bay Boulevard, a vibrant commercial spine where longtime favorites and neighborhood institutions anchor the community. ItalianAmerican staples such as  Bruno’s Restaurant and  Lenny’s Clam Bar sit alongside newer destinations like  Vetro Restaurant & Lounge and  Divino Pizzeria, giving the boulevard a richly layered culinary identity.

PJ Marcel, liaison for the Howard Beach Dads Facebook group, stated, “Howard Beach remains one of the last generational Italian American communities that values friendship and respect. Visiting the area feels like stepping back in time, with its waterfront cottages and elegant mansions. Its proximity to JFK and access to train and bus lines make it especially convenient.”

Howard Beach’s sense of tradition extends beyond food and housing. In the 1950s, folk music legend Woody Guthrie—the voice behind  “This Land Is Your Land”—lived here with his family on 85th Street, bringing a brush of artistic legacy to the bayside streets.

Resilience is part of the Howard Beach story too. Following the flooding of more than 2,000 homes during Hurricane Sandy in 2012, neighbors rallied together, strengthening bonds that remain evident in seasonal celebrations and community gatherings. The result is a neighborhood that feels both timeless and alive—a place where history, homes, and heartfelt community converge.

Howard Beach’s legacy is further enriched by the notable figures who have called it home. In the mid-20th century, folk music icon  Woody Guthrie lived in the neighborhood with his family while battling Huntington’s disease, composing and recording music that would later influence generations of artists and activists. His time in Howard Beach added a quiet but meaningful artistic thread to the area’s cultural fabric.

The neighborhood has also produced and attracted figures across entertainment, sports, and popular culture. Rock legend  Joey Ramone, frontman of the Ramones and a founding force of punk rock, spent part of his youth in the area, contributing to Howard Beach’s unexpected connection to New York’s downtown music revolution. Tennis star  Vitas Gerulaitis, once ranked among the world’s elite and a fixture of the international tennis circuit, also hailed from the neighborhood.

In television and film, actor Rick Hearst, known for his long-running roles in daytime television, is among Howard Beach’s notable alumni. Singer Pia Toscano, who rose to national attention as a finalist on  American Idol, represents a newer generation of performers shaped by the community’s strong family roots.

Taken together, these residents reflect the layered identity of Howard Beach: a place grounded in family and tradition, yet quietly intertwined with the arts, athletics, and cultural history of the city. It is this blend— ordinary and extraordinary—that continues to give the neighborhood its enduring character.

BROOKLYN SPORTS CLUB

A COMMUNITY HUB FOR FITNESS AND YOUTH DEVELOPMENT

By Melissa Billie Clark

More than a traditional gym, Brooklyn Sports Club blends fitness, youth sports, and community programming into a welcoming, full-service athletic destination. Conveniently located in Brooklyn with premier facilities and inclusive offerings for all ages, the club continues to be a place where health, skill-building, and connection thrive.

Conveniently located at 1540 Van Siclen Avenue, just off the Belt Parkway at the Pennsylvania Avenue exit, Brooklyn Sports Club offers a full-service athletic experience designed for individuals and families across Brooklyn. With free onsite parking and easy highway access, the club combines accessibility with a strong commitment to health, sports, and community connection.

Brooklyn Sports Club is more than a gym—it is a community-driven facility centered on fitness, youth development, and lifelong wellness.

Standout Athletic Facilities

At the heart of the club are its indoor swimming pool and full-size indoor basketball court, which serve as central spaces for training, instruction, and recreation. The swimming pool supports swim lessons, fitness swimming, and aquatic programs, while the basketball court provides a professional-grade environment for youth training, open play, and skill development.

Youth Sports and Skill Development

Youth programming remains a cornerstone of the club’s mission. The My Baller Academia basketball program offers consistent, structured training that helps young athletes build fundamentals, confidence, and teamwork in a supportive environment. With after-school weekday sessions and weekend classes, families value both the quality instruction and reliable scheduling.

The club also features a Judo program led by Olympian Coach Legros, giving students the opportunity to train under elite-level instruction. The program emphasizes discipline, respect, focus, and physical conditioning—skills that extend well beyond the mat.

Learn to Swim for Safety and Confidence

The Learn-to-Swim program is a vital part of Brooklyn Sports Club’s offerings. Led by trained instructors, the program focuses on water safety and foundational swimming skills in a structured, confidence-building setting. Designed for beginners and developing swimmers, it promotes a lifelong relationship with fitness and safety in the water

Fitness for Adults and Active Seniors

Brooklyn Sports Club provides a comprehensive fitness experience for adults, featuring over 30 Group Exercise classes included with membership. Classes range from strength and conditioning to cardio and mind-body formats, offering variety and motivation for members at all fitness levels.

The club also proudly serves its senior population with discounted memberships and a wide range of activities designed specifically for older adults. Popular offerings include pickleball every Tuesday and Thursday, along with additional fitness and wellness programs that promote mobility, balance, strength, and social connection. Members are encouraged to visit:www.brooklynsportsclub.com for the most up-to-date schedules and class information.

Flexible Spaces for Family Gatherings

In addition to fitness programming, Brooklyn Sports Club offers room rentals for birthday parties and family gatherings, providing a convenient and accessible option for hosting special occasions within the community.

Experience Brooklyn Sports Club

Brooklyn Sports Club continues to be a trusted destination for families, athletes, adults, and seniors throughout Brooklyn. To welcome new visitors, the club is offering a complimentary one-day guest pass, inviting readers to tour the facility and experience its programs firsthand. With its premier facilities, inclusive programming, convenient location, and communityfocused approach, Brooklyn Sports Club remains a place where fitness, skill-building, and wellness come together at every stage of life.

The Flanders Hotel Ocean City’s most historic and prestigious boardwalk hotel, known as “The Jewel of the Southern Shore”, was built in 1923. This serviceoriented Ocean City, NJ hotel, which was placed on the Nation Register of Historic Places in 2009. The Flanders combines the elegance and hospitality of yesteryear with modern amenities to offer the finest in luxury accommodations. All suites in our Ocean City hotel have private bedrooms and full kitchens, equipped with refrigerators, dishwashers, microwaves, coffee makers and stove tops, along with irons and ironing boards.

Located on the Ocean City Boardwalk, our full-service NJ beach hotel is a seaside destination that provides the following amenities:

• Spacious Banquet and Meeting Space

• Emily’s Ocean Room (featuring family friendly dining)

• The Shoppes at The Flanders (featuring clothing, jewelry, accessories)

• Divine Images Salon & Spa

• Outdoor heated pool (largest in Ocean City)

• Fitness Center

• 24-hour business center

Ocean City, known as America’s Greatest Family Resort, is one of the best beach towns in South Jersey. The Flanders, with its premier accommodations and prime location, is a landmark known throughout the region, state and nation. Vacationers have marveled at the towering structure as one of the great hotels along the Jersey Shore while local residents and business owners are reminded of the glory and memories provided by the resort. Because of its status as the grandest of Ocean City, New Jersey hotels, the community is fortunate that this architectural gem has survived to the present and continues to remain an important part of Ocean City’s past and future.

THE MINDIE METHOD

RINGS, ROMANCE & SECOND-GUESSING

By Mindie Barnett

Psychotherapist, wellness coach, author, and speaker Mindie Barnett answers your questions about life, navigating these stressful and uncertain times, and steering you down a more straight forward path. We welcome your questions and invite you to contact Mindie at:  mindiesmusings1@gmail.com

Mindie is available for in-person and virtual psychotherapy sessions via her Executive Health by Mindie Barnett Psychotherapy practice. Her expertise is in interpersonal relationships, overcoming depression, coping with anxiety and avoiding and overcoming burnout among many other wellness areas. Life coaching and career coaching are also areas she excels in. For more information or to schedule a session visit mbexecutivehealth.com

Dear Mindie,

I’ve been with my boyfriend for about 5 years now and while it hasn’t happened yet, I think this might be the year he pops the question! We’ve talked a lot about it, and we think we would want to go ring shopping together to look at different diamond cuts, colors, designs, etc. I have sent him ideas and pics of the types of rings I  think I’d want, but I’m a bit indecisive and what I think I like might not be what I  actually like. He said if I’m wearing a ring for the rest of my life, he wants to be sure I’m just as happy with the design. But I wonder if this ruins the full element of surprise, even though the final version would be entirely of his choosing.  What do you suggest?

Sincerely,

Miss Indecisive

Hi Miss Indecisive,

Well, this is a good problem to have, indeed! Congratulations, first and foremost, that you and your partner are thinking of spending forever together and likely taking a major step in the New Year. That’s incredibly exciting for a variety of reasons! While the ring is certainly a major part of the milestone it’s only a symbol of your commitment and soon-to-be union so I would try your best not to put a tremendous amount of pressure on yourself as you make the decision on style, cut, and clarity.

The first step in the process would be to determine a budget for this investment as you may choose a cut based on that. For example, round stones tend to look larger in karat weight than an emerald stone may. In addition, the clarity and color of an oval shape may not be as significant as the clarity and color needed in a princess shape diamond, and so on. Then, I would suggest figuring out what types of settings are appealing to you. There are modern styles, vintage-inspired and traditional styles, just to name a few.

The best way to know what you truly are attracted to is to head to a shop and try on. A lot! Model them on your finger and see how they look on your hand, how they feel and then think about practicality. Would this ring work well with your everyday pieces and does it feel comfortable to wear all the time? These are all important questions to consider.

I would also not look at this ring as something you’ll wear for the rest of your life, either. While that would be nice and many do choose to do that, there are also a large variety of people who upgrade the ring after a special anniversary or have it reset with children’s birthstone inclusions or to accommodate taste changes as one’s taste matures and evolves. The ring is certainly important but does not have to be looked upon as a lifelong commitment, that only holds true for your future betrothed.

Wishing you lots of love, light and sparkle in your future,

Xo Mindie

TEA, TIARAS, AND TOP SECRET SIPS

THE DRAWING ROOM HIDING IN PLAIN SIGHT AT THE RAFFLES LONDON

By Norah Bradford

Tucked inside Raffles London at The OWO, The Drawing Room delivers a quietly glamorous take on classic British hospitality, where afternoon tea, refined cocktails, and cinematic surroundings converge in one of Whitehall’s most elegant hideaways. From its playful “Secrets & Spies” tea ritual to its piano-accented lounge atmosphere and carefully crafted drinks program, the space feels less like a hotel bar and more like London’s private living room—an indulgent pause that rewards those who know exactly where to look.

New Yorkers have a particular radar for “worth the taxi” rooms: the kind of place where you can arrive a little rumpled from the day, sink into a chair, and instantly feel the city sharpen into focus. In London, The Drawing Room at Raffles London at The OWO is exactly that kind of destination, a polished pause button set right on Whitehall, with views toward the ceremonial swirl where the mounted Household Cavalry keep watch near Horse Guards and the approach to Buckingham Palace.

Step inside and the mood lands somewhere between clubby and cinematic: a stately British drawing room reimagined, with original wood paneling, a working fireplace, and a grand piano that signals the space is built for lingering, not rushing.  Come for an anchoring moment in a London itinerary packed with museums and theatre; stay because it feels like you have slipped into the city’s private living room, where history is present but never heavy-handed.

The headline ritual here is afternoon tea, served daily, and it’s not treated as a novelty.  The hotel leans into its Old War Office legacy with a “Secrets & Spies” narrative: this is the building tied to Britain’s intelligence history, and the tea program nods to that world with playful precision.  On the stand, expect the classics done with polish; sandwiches, scones, and pastries, then a sequence of sweets that behave like little plot points.

One signature is a spy-themed sharing chocolate cake designed like a pocket watch, and another pastry, “Odette,” tips a hat to wartime agent Odette Sansom with elderflower notes.  Tea service is backed by a serious selection, including expertly blended options created with Camellia’s Tea House, with Champagne or alcohol-free pairings offered for those who like their afternoon with a little sparkle.

If you are timing it like a New Yorker, the late-day move is to treat The Drawing Room as your pre-dinner landing strip. The drinks program reads like a greatest-hits set, tuned to the room: a house “Drawing Room” cocktail built on No. 3 Gin with a wink of afternoon-tea flavors and Champagne; a London Sling with Sipsmith Raffles 1915 Gin; and a properly composed Singapore Sling, plus clean classics like a Martini or Negroni.  And in 2026, jazz evenings are set to add another layer of reason to make the beeline.

For more information, please visit: www.raffles.com/london

CARMINE’S TIMES SQUARE

AN NYC LEGEND OF FAMILY DINING CELEBRATES 35 YEARS

By Anne Raso

Carmine’s in Times Square is a place built around big, shared servings of Southern Italian favorites that many New Yorkers and visitors instantly recognize. I probably didn’t have to tell you this as Carmine’s is such a famous place, known for warm, customized service and consistent quality. While other restaurants come and go all the time in NYC, Carmine’s is always full because the quality of their food as well as their charming old school vibe stays consistent. Let me add that here is something so endearing about always hearing both classics and “deep cuts” by Frank Sinatra and Dean Martin while you dine!

“GARLIC” IS THE MAGIC WORD

My dinner started with one of the simplest yet most beloved starters: both regular Garlic Bread and  Garlic Bread with Cheese. At Carmine’s, the garlic bread is made with thick, hearty slices of rustic bread brushed with rich garlic and herb butter--warm, fragrant, and perfect for kicking off a meal. If you want the “with cheese” option, you’ll get melted mozzarella on top, and the cheese makes each bite buttery, savory, and slightly gooey. The Garlic Bread done either way is an irresistible way to begin, especially when shared with family or friends. The portion is large—I counted more than a dozen slices that were at least seven inches long!

Another favorite appetizer is the Antipasto, offered as either cold or hot, but with both versions celebrating classic Italian flavors. A typical Cold Antipasto platter typically includes an array of cured meats, cheeses, and marinated vegetables—but Carmine’s version will dazzle you with the overwhelmingly spectacular array of Italian Charcuterie, Seafood

& Octopus, Farro Salad with Cucumber, Tomatoes & Kalamata Olives, Eggplant

,

Ricotta Crostini with Calabrian Chili Oil Honey, Mushrooms Alla Grecque, Watermelon, Tomato & Mozzarella Skewers and Bread Sticks with Romano Cheese and Black Pepper.

In my opinion, the most spectacular item in the cold antipasto is the Caponata, which reaches world class levels because of the house made sauce and tender sauteed onions used to create it. It’s a colorful, flavorful way to start your dinner--but do not get too full as a lot more is always coming at Carmine’s! (Just take the leftovers home.)

The Hot Antipasto spins the traditional antipasto idea into something truly special and memorable, and includes baked and sautéed items like Mussels Fra Diavolo, Clams Casino, Eggplant Rollatini, Stromboli with Prosciutto, Fried Fresh Mozzarella, Vegetable Stuffed Mushrooms, Cacio E Pepe Arancini and Spinach & Artichoke Dip . Both antipasto styles are perfect with a glass of red wine and set the tone for the generous portions to come. I suggest teaming your Antipasto with the large Shrimp Cocktail which consists of a ten chilled shrimp served alongside classic garnishes like lemon wedges and a zesty horseradish-spiked cocktail sauce.

PASTA PERFECTION

Among the pasta offerings on the menu, you can pick any shape and match it with the sauce of your choice ranging from Alla Vodka to Alfredo Sauce. My guests and I ordered Angel Hair with Fresh Pomodoro and it stood out as a favorite for its simplicity and brightness. Angel hair is a delicate, thin pasta that marries beautifully with a fresh pomodoro sauce made from ripe tomatoes, olive oil, garlic, basil, and a hint of seasoning. The result is light but deeply satisfying--and you will love the fact that there are whole plum tomatoes in the sauce! I have never seen that at any other Italian eatery in the city (or in Italy, for that matter)!

This Pomodoro sauce is all about letting fresh tomato flavor shine, so it becomes a palate cleanser of sorts in a meal full of rich tastes--it’s comforting and pure, exactly what many people think of when they imagine classic “Sunday sauce.” It’s heavy on the fresh basil taste and actual pieces of fresh basil, which is why it gets a knockout rating from me!

DECADENT DESSERTS

When it comes to dessert, the Strawberry Shortcake at Carmine’s creates a sweet, nostalgic note to the end of a hearty meal. The Carmine’s shortcake layers slices of marble pound cake with fresh strawberries and clouds of whipped cream, which are then dusted with finely chopped pistachios for a touch of texture. It’s not overly sweet, making it a refreshing compliment after a rich dinner. Strawberry Shortcake has become popular not just for its flavor but for its presentation—it’s tall, bright, and topped with a red sign that says “Carmine’s Celebrates” in honor of the 35th anniversary! Many diners order the Strawberry Shortcake as much for the “photo moment” as for the taste.

Before you say anything, I do realize that Strawberry Shortcake is not a traditional way to end an Italian meal. On other trips to Carmine’s including to their Upper West Side location, I have ordered the Chocolate Covered Cannoli.  It is a decadent twist on traditional cannoli as the shells are coated with thick dark chocolate and the cream has mouthwatering bits of candied fruits! For sundae lovers, there is the Titanic which is a sundae that can literally serve 20 people featuring several flavors of ice cream, toppings and bananas. Needless to say, this also provides an amazing Instagram photo op!

MAKING MEMORIES

What links all these favorite dishes — from Garlic Bread to Antipasto to Angel Hair Pomodoro to Strawberry Shortcake —is Carmine’s approachability and shareable spirit. It goes without saying that Carmine’s is the top NYC eatery for bringing families together (many whom have not been together in a long time)—and it is the optimal spot to celebrate birthdays and other special occasions. It’s where laughter is shared and memories are made!

While this gem of Times Square is celebrating 35 successful years (as of this past September), I guarantee that you can count on there being another 35 years with the quality remaining at its current level of excellence. (By the way, if you want to feel like a VIP, you can rent out the Sinatra Room for private parties and extra-large sit-down dinners.)

For more information on Carmine’s, go to carminesnyc.com

ON THE BIG SCREEN

By Jenny Peters

KOOKIE COMEDIES

GOOD LUCK, HAVE FUN, DON’T DIE

R

This surreal black comedy all about AI and its effect on the real world has two people involved that make us willing to watch basically anything they decide to do: Oscar winners director Gore Verbinski (“Rango”) and Sam Rockwell “Vice”). These two guys put together have made so many movies we adore, including “Mousehunt,” and the first three “Pirates of the Caribbean” flicks for Verbinski plus “Galaxy Quest” and “Confessions of a Dangerous Mind” for Rockwell means we trust their willingness to get weird. So checking out this mind-bending satire is a no-brainer, as they take the idea of AI to its inevitable ending for the human race.

PILLION

Not Yet Rated

HOW TO MAKE A KILLING R

Glen Powell and Margaret Qualley can make just about any movie they want to these days, so hitching their stars to John Patton Ford’s film based on the classic Alec Guinness black comedy “Kind Hearts and Coronets” means they had a great beginning. But this time out, Powell doesn’t play all the characters in his rich family, that he decides to murder one by one, to inherit the billions. It still looks to be a crazy caper, something Verbinski knows how to make a rousing cinematic adventure.

This award-winning black comedy follows a meek gay man (Henry Melling) who finds the man of his dreams; unfortunately, that man is a tough biker who’s got a really tough idea of what love is. Alexander Skarsgarrd shows off every inch of his appeal as the biker who plays incredibly hard to get, while Melling is the lovestruck partner willing to do just about anything to win his love. This awardwinning flick was the talk of the Cannes Film Festival and writer-director Harry Leighton is winning raves and nominations for this, his first film.

SHUDDERING SUSPENSE

SCREAM 7

R

COLD STORAGE

R

Black comedy is the theme for February flicks, with “Cold Storage” leaning into the horror side of the equation, this sometimes scream-worthy scary movie combines with tongue-in-cheek jokes to make a movie worth watching. Scripted by David Koepp, who’s written everything from “Jurassic Park” and “Death Becomes Her” to the 2002 “Spider-Man” and 2025’s “Black Bag” and “Jurassic World: Rebirth,” this movie has it all, beginning with Liam Neeson and ending with a crackerjack cast including Lesley Manville, Sosie Bacon, Joe Keery and even Vanessa Redgrave, all invested in making you yell in fear and scream with laughter, too.

If you build it, they will come. That’s the motto of director-writer Kevin Williamson, who created the “Scream” franchise as the screenwriter back in 1996 and now, 30 years later, is back as both the director and writer in this seventh installment of the enduring slasher horror franchise. So if you’ve loved seeing the original characters (including those played then and now by Neve Campbell, Courteney Cox and David Arquette) keep coming back for more, then you’re the one that they’re counting on to hit the movie theaters to join in the group “Scream” one more time!

ON THE SMALL SCREEN

By Jenny Peters

REBOOTS AND REUNIONS

THE ‘BURBS

Peacock

Back in 1989, Tom Hanks and Carrie Fisher starred in the film version of “The ‘Burbs,” a dark comedy that’s now a cult classic thriller (check it out!). Now Hollywood is recycling this tale of suburban noir with this new series starring Keke Palmer and Jack Whitehall, stretching the story into an 8-episode arc. Tune in to discover exactly who the strange neighbors living in this ultimate American suburb actually are . . . if you dare!

SCRUBS

ABC

It’s been 16 years since “Scrubs” went off the air after 10 seasons, now it’s back, with most of the original stars returning to Sacred Heart Hospital for another shift. Creator Bill Lawrence ( who went on to “Ted Lasso” and “Shrinking”) once again leads the charge, as Zach Braff, Donald Faison and Sarah Chalke reprise their leading roles as doctors, along with John C. McGinley as their medical mentor and Judy Reyes as the nurse who keeps them all on track. If lightning can strike twice, expect this “Scrubs” reboot to be around for another long run.

VANISHED

Prime Video

THE FALL AND RISE OF REGGIE DINKINS

NBC

“30 Rock” friends Tracy Morgan, Tina Fey, Sam Means and Robert Carlock are together again in this new comedy series, with Morgan starring as Reggie Dinkins. He’s a now-disgraced former football star who is determined to bring fans back into his corner. He’s got Daniel Radcliffe on his side, as a filmmaker determined to help change his image. Only one problem: Dinkins is still himself, a problematic kind of guy. Erika Alexander and Bobby Moynihan co-star in the satire.

DARK DRAMAS

THE GRAY HOUSE

Prime Video

Kevn Costner and Morgan Freeman joined forces to produce this Civil War series centered on four white women who helped Black slaves escape from their owners via the Underground Railroad. Directed by Oscar nominee Roland Joffe and starring Mary Louise Parker, Ben Vereen, Daisy Head and Paul Anderson, this intense drama follows the women as they begin to spy on the Confederate forces, giving the Union key information as the war unfolds. Watch for Christopher McDonald, Rob Morrow and Sam Trammell in key roles as well in this compelling tale.

Kaley Cuoco is terrific at choosing roles that vary widely, from her comic turns in hit shows like “The Big Bang Theory” and “The Flight Attendant” to this dark thriller that follows her across Europe in search of her “Vanished” boyfriend. He’s played by hunky Sam Clafin (“Daisy Jones and the Six”) and when he disappears off a train, Cuoco’s hunt for him begins. Tense and exciting, this series expands her range and convinces us she can do just about anything.

ARTE MUSEUM NEW YORK

AN IMMERSIVE JOURNEY INTO NATURE

By Jeff & Stephanie Sylva

One of New York’s newest museums, Arte Museum New York, is an exposition of cutting-edge digital technology presenting an immersive, multi-sensory experience of sight, sound and scent. The exhibition, themed “Eternal Nature,” guides guests through multiple, dreamlike scenes reflecting the beauty and power of nature. Located at Chelsea Piers, Arte Museum has enthralled visitors since its opening on September 1, 2025.

Other immersive art experiences such as the Van Gogh exhibits have drawn large crowds. Arte Museum aims to capture this energy and looks poised to do so. The exhibit features multiple artists and a number of interactive experiences, which make it a family-friendly attraction.

STATE-OF-THE-ART

DIGITAL MEDIA

Arte Museum New York is produced by world-class Korean digital design and art company d’strict. The winner of over 80 international design awards, d’strict is one of the world’s foremost digital media creators. Arte Museum launched in 2020 in South Korea and has expanded to major cities across the globe. Its US debut was in Las Vegas in 2023. Arte Museum New York, which is twice the size of the Las Vegas edition, debuted in September 2025.

BECOME IMMERSED IN NATURE

Upon entering the first room (more accurately a “space” – there are 14 in all)) called “Waterfall Infinite,” visitors are enveloped in towering waterfalls that are so realistic it’s hard to believe they are a digital creation. More of Nature’s wonder is on display in the next space, “Flower Roses and Little Wings.” Incorporating a soundscape from award-winning composer Young-gyu Jang and natural scents from a master perfumer from Grasse, France, with images of endless fields of roses, “Flower” immerses visitors in an interactive floral wonderland. Touch the wall and a bevy of butterflies magically take flight. Each step on the floor scatters a pile of rose petals. More digital mastery greets visitors as they experience the unfolding of a blooming rose or follow the journey of the hibiscus seed as it comes to life.

Enjoy the peaceful aura of “Beach Night Being,” as you walk along a darkened beach taking in the soothing sight and sound of waves breaking on the shore. Then marvel at the images of various sea creatures as they appear and float along the scene. The next space, also nautical, captures the tremendous power of nature. “Wave” will keep you mesmerized as you stand before an enormous wave that seems to be crashing down upon you, only to be trapped by its glass enclosure.

A MYSTICAL FOREST

Your sensory-rich journey continues with a mystical passage of seasons in “Forest Sacred Forest of Mystic Spirits.” Nature’s four seasons are beautifully illustrated in forest scenes, while elaborate Mystic Spirits in the forms of a beflowered elk for spring, a fiery dragon for summer, a mythical phoenix for fall, and white Siberian tiger for winter appear.

Adults and especially children will love the interactive experience “LIVE SKETCHBOOK,” which allows you to create your own visuals. Use your creative sense to color the sketches of animals, which are then scanned and projected on the walls of a serene jungle.

When you enter the exhibit “Star Milky Way,” you are surrounded by a constellation of starlight created with paper art and numerous mirrors.

One of the last spaces, “Garden,” contains two creative exhibits. “Beach Aurora” presents the splendor of the Aurora’s brilliant night sky contrasted with the power of the sea’s waves. New Yorkers will especially appreciate “New York is Art,” an immersive media display inspired by many of the city’s landmarks as well as its many cultural scenes.

PARIS AND ITS LEGENDARY ARTISTS

Certainly one of the most impressive exhibits is “Arte Museum X Musee D’Orsay,” a mind-blowing interpretation of Paris’ renowned museum which holds the world’s largest collection of Impressionist masterpieces. The blending of digital technology and art is nothing short of amazing, as the exhibition reimagines the works of Monet, Van Gogh, Gauguin, and other legends.

This experience starts at the museum’s train station entrance, then proceeds through famous Paris landmarks such as the Opera Garnier, Barbizon Forest, Monet’s Garden, Gauguin’s Tahiti, and Van Gogh’s Arles. The multi-sensory journey into this world of art masterpieces is enhanced by specially composed orchestral music and the scent of white flowers. FYI – this is a rotating exhibition at the museum, so plan accordingly.

Complete your Arte Museum visit with refreshing tea-based mocktails and a limited selection of small bites at Arte Cafe. The multi-sensory experience of the museum continues in the café with delicious drinks served with harmonic music, interactive visuals and wonderful scents.

The Arte Museum is located at 61 Chelsea Piers, close to the High Line (one of Manhattan’s most popular tourist attractions), Chelsea Market, and Market 57. The museum’s location is convenient for a full day of NYC exploration.

For more information on Arte Museum New York visit: www.artemuseum.com

OSCAR NIGHT IS SET

THE NOMINEES, THE

SHORTLISTS,

THE BUZZ

ABy Norah Lawlor

s Oscar night approaches, the season’s two-part journey—from December’s shortlists to January’s nominations—reveals a race shaped by both spectacle and intimacy, industry momentum and quiet discovery. With casting recognized as an official category for the first time, record-setting contenders like Sinners, and a Best Picture lineup that spans auteur-driven dramas and large-scale studio productions, this year’s Academy Awards underscore how many paths lead to gold before the final envelopes are opened.

The red carpet will roll out at the Dolby Theatre at Ovation Hollywood On Sunday, March 15th, and the 98th Academy Awards will do what they do best: turn a year of moviegoing into a single, glittering verdict.

But the Oscars rarely arrive all at once. They come in stages, like a story told in chapters, and this season’s plot has been written in two distinct acts: the Academy’s shortlists, released in December, and the nominations, announced Jan. 22. Together, they reveal not just what could win, but what nearly did not make it this far.

The Academy’s shortlists, announced in December, narrowed the field in 12 categories before final nominations were set.  In practical terms, it was the industry’s first official signal that the race had moved from chatter to checklists, from “consider” to “contend.” And in at least one place, it doubled as a preview of the night’s most meaningful subplot: the arrival of casting as a newly honored craft.

Casting made its debut in the nominations as an official category, recognizing the people whose choices shape every performance we praise later. On the nominee list, “Hamnet,” “Marty Supreme,” “One Battle after Another,” “The Secret Agent” and “Sinners” emerged as the first set of films whose ensembles were formally singled out by name.  The December casting shortlist offered an even wider snapshot of the conversation, with heavyweight titles in the mix, including “Wicked: For Good” among those that advanced at that stage.

By nominations morning, the Best Picture lineup had locked into a slate of 10: “Bugonia,” “F1,” “Frankenstein,” “Hamnet,” “Marty Supreme,” “One Battle after Another,” “The Secret Agent,” “Sentimental Value,” “Sinners” and “Train Dreams.”  It is the kind of field that suggests a season split between spectacle and intimacy, studio muscle and auteur signatures, English language awards magnets and international titles that forced their way into the center of the frame.

If there is a single title that best captures the year’s momentum, it may be Ryan Coogler’s “Sinners,” which set a nominations record with 16 nods, according to Business Insider.  The film landed in the top-tier race (including Best Picture) and across key crafts, positioning it as the rare contender that can win big even if it does not win everything.

Close behind, “One Battle after Another” arrived with the kind of broad support that can turn into a late-breaking surge: nominations included Best Picture, directing recognition for Paul Thomas Anderson, and an acting slot for Leonardo DiCaprio, among others.  In a season where ballots can splinter, a film that performs well across branches often has the advantage of being everybody’s second favorite, which is another way of saying it can be everybody’s winner.

The acting races, meanwhile, read like a map of where the Academy’s attention settled. Timothée Chalamet (“Marty Supreme”), Michael B. Jordan (“Sinners”) and Wagner Moura (“The Secret Agent”) are among the Best Actor nominees, with Jessie Buckley (“Hamnet”) and Emma Stone (“Bugonia”) in the Best Actress mix.

If the Oscars are a referendum on what lingered longest after the credits, these categories suggest the lingering happened in both large-scale productions and quieter character studies.

The shortlists offer another kind of story: the one about the films that stayed alive deep into the process, even if their nominations ultimately landed elsewhere. In the December shortlist announcement, the Academy emphasized that preliminary voting determines a narrowed selection before nominees are chosen, with branch members leading in some categories and broader membership participating in others.  It is one reason Oscar seasons can feel both democratic and mysterious: thousands of voters, different rules by category, and a viewing culture that can reward late discovery as much as early buzz.

This year’s awards calendar also comes with a clear reminder from the Academy: finals voting runs late February through early March.  In other words, between now and Oscar night, campaigns will tighten, screenings will stack up, and narratives will sharpen into final arguments.

The show itself will be hosted by Conan O’Brien, and will be televised live on ABC and streamed live on Hulu, according to Oscars.com.  And when the envelopes open, the winners will be presented as inevitable, even though the season’s paper trail says otherwise.

Because the real truth of the Oscars is not just who wins. It is how many different versions of “could have” existed first: the shortlists, the near-misses, the performances that hovered at the edge of the frame. By the time the lights hit the Dolby Theatre on March 15, the story will look clean. The road to get there never is.

Look out for these six movies to win gold this March: Hamnet, One battle after another, Marty supreme, Sentimental Value, Sinners, and The secret agent.

For more information, please visit: www.oscars.org

ABOUT THE TOP TEN NOMINATED MOVIES

Sinners — Studio: Proximity Media, released by Warner Bros. Pictures; Director: Ryan Coogler; Key actors: Michael B. Jordan, Hailee Steinfeld, Jack O’Connell, Wunmi Mosaku, Delroy Lindo; Synopsis: Set in 1932 Mississippi, twin brothers return home hoping for a fresh start and find a supernatural evil waiting for them; Runtime: 138 minutes.

One Battle After Another — Studio: Warner Bros. Pictures and Ghoulardi Film Company; Director: Paul Thomas Anderson; Key actors: Leonardo DiCaprio, Sean Penn, Benicio del Toro, Regina Hall, Teyana Taylor, Chase Infiniti; Synopsis: An exrevolutionary is pulled back into conflict when a corrupt military figure resurfaces and puts him and his daughter in danger; Runtime: 162 minutes.

Marty Supreme — Studio: Central Pictures, distributed by A24; Director: Josh Safdie; Key actors: Timothée Chalamet, Gwyneth Paltrow, Odessa A’zion, Fran Drescher; Synopsis: In a stylized 1950s sports saga, a driven young table tennis phenom chases greatness against the odds; Runtime: 150 minutes.

Sentimental Value — Studio: Mer Film and Eye Eye Pictures among an international producing slate; Director: Joachim Trier; Key actors: Renate Reinsve, Stellan Skarsgård, Elle Fanning, Inga Ibsdotter Lilleaas; Synopsis: Two sisters reconnect with their estranged filmmaker father when a proposed comeback project reopens old wounds and reshapes their family balance; Runtime: 133 minutes.

Hamnet — Studio: Hera Pictures, Neal Street Productions and Amblin Entertainment among the producing companies, distributed by Focus Features in the United States; Director: Chloé Zhao; Key actors: Jessie Buckley, Paul Mescal, Emily Watson, Joe Alwyn; Synopsis: Shakespeare and his wife Agnes confront devastating loss after the death of their son, a grief that becomes the spark for enduring art; Runtime: 126 minutes.

The Secret Agent — Studio: CinemaScópio and MK Productions among the production companies; Director: Kleber Mendonça Filho; Key actors: Wagner Moura, Maria Fernanda Cândido, Gabriel Leone, Udo Kier; Synopsis: In Brazil, 1977, a man on the run returns to Recife during Carnival hoping to reunite with his son, only to find the city more dangerous than he imagined; Runtime: 161 minutes.

Bugonia — Studio: Element Pictures and Square Peg among the producing companies, distributed by Focus Features; Director: Yorgos Lanthimos; Key actors: Emma Stone, Jesse Plemons, Alicia Silverstone; Synopsis: Two conspiracy fixated men abduct a powerful executive they believe is not human, turning paranoia into a darkly comic crisis; Runtime: 118 minutes.

F1 — Studio: Apple Studios, Plan B Entertainment and Jerry Bruckheimer Films among the producing companies; Director: Joseph Kosinski; Key actors: Brad Pitt, Damson Idris, Kerry Condon, Javier Bardem; Synopsis: A veteran driver comes out of retirement to help save an underdog Formula One team and mentor its rising talent; Runtime: 155 minutes.

Train Dreams — Studio: Black Bear and Kamala Films, distributed by Netflix; Director: Clint Bentley; Key actors: Joel Edgerton, Felicity Jones, William H. Macy, Kerry Condon; Synopsis: A quiet life unfolds across decades as a logger and railroad worker navigates love, loss and sweeping change in early 20th century America; Runtime: 102 minutes.

Frankenstein — Studio: Double Dare You, Demilo Films and Bluegrass 7, distributed by Netflix; Director: Guillermo del Toro; Key actors: Oscar Isaac, Jacob Elordi, Mia Goth, Christoph Waltz; Synopsis: Victor Frankenstein’s ambition to create life births a tragic creature and sets creator and creation on a collision course; Runtime: 150 minutes.

BROADWAY BOB’S

THEATER REVIEWS

By Bob Massimi

“A

nna Christie” at St. Ann’s Warehouse play written by Eugene O’Neil and for the most part is good. The acting by Brian D’Arcy James and Tom Sturridge is excellent; as is Mare Winningham, although she is not on stage for very long in this two hour-thirty minute show.

Director Thomas Kail (Sweeney Todd) brings a different twist to the play for several reasons: Mat Burke (Sturridge) is a more violent person then originally written by O’Neil; Anna (Michelle Williams) is older than the book originally had Anna portrayed. These two big differences never hurt the show, in fact Burke is more interesting here than the past “Anna Christie” plays that have been produced.

He is a religious man from Ireland, however, he is quick to anger when he does not see eye-to-eye with a situation. The original Burke is a brawny man who has a gentile soul. This Burke keeps the audience on edge. We never know what he is going to do next, and that is part of the allure of this “Christie”. Williams as an older Anna never gets it right as the tough talking, tough minded woman who only cares what she thinks about herself. Williams accent goes in and out, where James and Sturridge keep their accents solid throughout the performance.

In a three quarter round stage, Kail is able to keep the action moving throughout the entire performance. The sets by Jones and Banakis are interesting and very much part of the show. The set s are never overbearing and always relevant to the stories action.

So too is the lighting by Natasha Katz. The lighting is never overbearing but is supportive to both the actors and the sets. I would have chosen different colors at times but Katz does an admirable job here.

Paul Tazewell’s costumes are first rate. He straddles the conventional costuming with the modern era of this great O’Neil play. Nevin Steinberg has a fantastic sound design to the play. Macabre at times, forceful at others, his sound enhances the action onstage.

Although “Anna Christie” is not as much produced as some of O’Neil’s other works: “The Iceman Cometh” and “Long Day’s Journey into Night”; “Anna Christie” is as deep and dark as many of his other works like: “A Moon For The Misbegotten” and “Desire Under The Elms”. Much like Tennessee Williams, O’Neil has an uncanny knack for writing about the downtrodden to a point it almost seems absurd.

ED BEGLEY JR.

WHERE GREEN LIVING MEETS ANIMAL COMPASSION

By Melissa Billie Clark

Ed Begley Jr. is an award-winning actor, committed environmentalist, and leading advocate for animal welfare. Over five decades, Begley has received multiple Emmy and Golden Globe nominations. His roles in films such as Strange Darling and Pineapple Express highlight his versatility in both drama and comedy.

Off-screen, Begley consistently aligns his actions with his values. Long before sustainability became mainstream, he drove electric vehicles, reduced energy use at home, and advocated for clean air, clean water, and non-toxic living. He later founded Begley’s, which offers highperformance, non-toxic products safe for families, pets, and the environment. Begley’s legacy is defined by his commitment to using his platform to promote lasting and practical change.

New York Lifestyles Magazine (NYLM) interviewed Begley about rescue animals, sustainability, and intentional living. Although he has spent decades advocating for environmental responsibility, Begley notes that some of his most meaningful lessons come from the animals he has loved and rescued. In this conversation, he discusses companionship, adoption, non-toxic living, and his current dog, Bunny.

NYLM: Ed, you’ve shared your life with many animals over the years. Can you tell us about the ones who shaped you most?

EB: Absolutely. Baby Boy was a cat I adopted while doing an off-Broadway play in New York. He slept on my head or neck every night for fourteen or fifteen years—just a treasured companion. Molly was our family dog, more my wife and daughter’s dog than mine, but I loved her deeply. I love it when people bring them up. They were extraordinary animals.

NYLM: Bunny entered your life in an unexpected way. How did that happen?

EB: It was my birthday, and my daughter Hayden’s car got towed to an impound lot. While she was dealing with that, she noticed a frightened dog that no one else could get near. The dog let her help. When she brought her home, and I walked in, the dog ran straight to me—like she’d been waiting. She was grateful to my daughter, but she chose me

NYLM: What has Bunny brought into your life since then?

EB: Pure love. She’s with me all the time—walks, car trips, sleeping on my chest at night. Animals give us something so simple and so powerful. Who doesn’t want pure love?

NYLM: Do you think animals can sense things humans can’t?

EB: Absolutely. We’re all animals—human animals, canine animals, feline animals. They sense things we don’t always see or hear, and we’re better for trusting that.

NYLM: How do you care for Bunny day to day—especially when it comes to food?

EB: I feed her the best quality food I can find. Usually a good dry food base—often Whole Paws, which I believe is a Whole Foods–associated brand—and I add high-quality wet food. Sometimes I’ll add healthy people food, like salmon. I like to keep it interesting, but always healthy.

NYLM: Sustainability clearly extends into your home. Can you share an example people might not expect?

EB: Our fence is made of recycled wood and recycled plastic. I installed it for environmental reasons, but it turns out coyotes can’t climb it—it’s too slippery. I love coyotes. I just don’t want my little Bunny to be a meal.

NYLM: You often talk about non-toxic living. Why is that especially important for pets?

EB: The worst hazardous waste dump isn’t just out there—it’s under your sink, like cleaning products. Pets and children have lower body weight, so toxins affect them more. They lick their paws, crawl on floors, and breathe closer to the ground. We owe it to them to keep their environment safe.

NYLM: That philosophy led you to create your own product line. What was your goal with Begley’s?

EB: With Begley’s, the challenge was to make something non-toxic that actually worked better than conventional cleaners. And we did. You shouldn’t have to choose between safety and effectiveness.

NYLM: You’re also a strong advocate for adoption. Why is that so important to you?

EB: There are so many animals that need homes. Why create more? Adopt, spay, neuter, and avoid puppy mills. You’re not just saving an animal—you’re reducing the burden on the planet.

NYLM: After decades of environmental advocacy, how do you stay hopeful?

EB: I look at success stories. Los Angeles has four times as many cars as it did in 1970 and a fraction of the smog. Rivers like the Hudson and the Cuyahoga were brought back. These things worked because people cared and took action. There’s enough to be depressed about. I focus on what works.

NYLM: What do you hope people take away from your message—about pets and the planet?

EB: Focus on what we agree on. We all want clean air, clean water, and a safe world for our kids and our pets. Make mindful choices, big and small. They add up.

To learn more about Begley’s sustainable products, visit begleysbest.com

PUCKER UP, PUPS!

VALENTINE’S DAY GETS A FOUR-LEGGED TWIST

By Michael McKensie

In New York City, love comes in many forms—and this February, it has four legs, a wagging tail, and an irresistible face. Just in time for Valentine’s Day, The Pet Market NYC is inviting pet parents to celebrate their ultimate love story with a series of playful “Smooch Your Pooch” Kissing Booth photo events popping up at select locations across Manhattan.

For many New Yorkers, pets aren’t just companions— they’re family, confidants, and daily sources of joy. The Pet Market NYC’s Valentine’s activation leans into that bond with a festive, heart-adorned photo backdrop designed to capture the pure affection between people and their furry best friends. Whether your Valentine is a bouncy puppy, a dignified senior dog, or somewhere in between, the Kissing Booth offers a lighthearted way to commemorate the season of love—no reservations required.

The experience is simple and sweet: stop by, strike a pose, and share a smooch with your pup. The resulting photos are perfect for social media, holiday cards, or simply as a keepsake that captures the unique personality of your four-legged Valentine. It’s an event that blends New York’s love of photo-worthy moments with its deep devotion to pets.

Kissing Booth dates and locations include:

· Saturday, February 7 & Sunday, February 8 – 224 W 72nd Street

· Wednesday, February 11 – 1227 3rd Avenue

· Thursday, February 12 through Saturday, February 14 – 132 W 72nd Street

Beyond the Valentine’s festivities, The Pet Market NYC has built a loyal following by offering highquality pet supplies, curated products, and a community-focused approach to pet care. With multiple neighborhood locations and three-hour delivery throughout Manhattan, the brand has become a go-to resource for busy pet parents who want convenience without compromising quality.

What sets The Pet Market apart is its emphasis on connection—between people and their pets, and among neighbors who share a love for animals. Events like “Smooch Your Pooch” reflect that philosophy, turning everyday errands into joyful experiences and reminding New Yorkers that sometimes the best date is already waiting at home on four paws.

Valentine’s Day may traditionally be about romance, but at The Pet Market NYC, it’s also about unconditional love, wagging tails, and the kind of loyalty that never asks for anything in return—except maybe a treat.

For more information about The Pet Market NYC, upcoming events, and locations, visit petmarketnyc.com and follow @thepetmarketnyc on Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook.

THROUGH THE LENS

Photography By Annie Watt

NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF SOCIAL SCIENCES 111TH ANNUAL GOLD MEDAL GALA

Photos by David DuPuy and Annie Watt

“Like our founders so long ago in Boston, we face a very challenging environment today, where knowledge and learning themselves can often seem to be under attack,” declared NISS President Fred Larsen at the 111th Annual Gold Medal Gala on Tuesday, December 9th, when the storied not-for-profit added Christopher Eisgruber, Claudia Goldin, and Alison Gopnik to its historic roster of Gold Medal Honorees.

The evening began with a performance of “Some Enchanted Evening” by Win Rutherfurd and “God Bless America” by Angela Cason, Win Rutherfurd, Beatrice Broadwater, and Richard Miller, which set the stage. President Larsen moderated a panel discussion with President Eisgruber, Professor Goldin, and Professor Gopnik before a captivated audience at the Metropolitan Club. The evening also recognized the Institute’s six 2025 PhD Dissertation Grant winners. “I urge each of you to get involved, to join or donate, or both, to help us continue to pursue our mission to protect, advance, and celebrate knowledge,” urged President Larsen.

The organization was formed during Reconstruction, incorporated in 1899, and reincorporated in 1926 by an Act of Congress. The National Institute of Social Sciences is a Congressionally chartered not-for-profit association of public-spirited citizens. Members include social scientists, educators, business professionals, philanthropists, academics, and the intellectually curious who believe the social sciences offer broad and valuable insights into urgent and lasting issues.

For more information, visit: www.socialsciencesinstitute.org

ARTISANS OF WINE & FOOD CONCLUDED ITS SECOND ANNUAL CELEBRATION AT THE BOCA RATON

By Alexandra Gusita | Photos by Annie Watt

The iconic Boca Raton—the storied, palm-lined landmark celebrating 100 years of refined hospitality—played host to the second annual Artisans of Wine & Food, from January 15–18, 2026, a four-day homage to Napa Valley craftsmanship, culinary mastery, and gracious living. Set across the resort’s sunlit gardens, oceanfront terraces, Harborside Pool Club, and serene Mizner Home, the setting offered an elegant backdrop for a weekend defined by beauty, connection, and purpose.

The celebration opened with Artisans Toast, an inviting welcome reception led by Chef Anthony Theocaropoulos, followed by more than 20 curated experiences featuring over 100 Napa Valley wineries and more than 20 Michelin-starred and acclaimed chefs. Highlights included the Discover Napa Valley Tasting Pavilion, where guests sampled exceptional wines alongside artful bites, and Icons of Napa Valley dinners with Chef Guy Savoy and Chef Rogelio Garcia. Intimate moments included Chef Sarah Steffan’s Blackberry Farm x Napa Valley: Dinner En Plein Air and Chef Jet Tila’s Flavors of Thailand, Wines of Napa Dinner.

Daytime leisure blended seamlessly into the program with the Vintners Invitational Golf Tournament and a relaxed Pickleball Social at the Racquet Club. Additional highlights included An Evening on the Intracoastal, a yacht dinner with Chef Gilles Dudognon, and the Relais & Châteaux Chefs Brunch on the final day.

The weekend culminated with A Vintners Gala: CARBONE, hosted by Chef Mario Carbone, benefiting Place of Hope and the Napa Valley Vintners Youth Wellness Initiative.

Artisans of Wine & Food concluded as more than a festival—it was a celebration of luxury, legacy, and community.

Welcome To An Enchangting, Exclusive And Unparalleled Island Escape To Anguilla

The Manoah

SHOAL BAY EAST IS AS PRISTINE AS EVER

Spotless beach, no seaweed, white sand, clear and warm water, mild waves, pollution free...

Idyllic Shoal Bay East – a shimmering, nearly deserted stretch of brilliant white sand strewn with tiny crushed shells – is still miraculously blight-free. There's a handful of small-scale resorts and villas as well as a string of laid-back beach bars along the sand, but it's surprisingly quiet, even in high season. Bring your snorkeling gear (or rent some on-site), as the glassy turquoise waters are perfect for underwater observation.

Unprecedented Destination Wedding & Anniversary Getaways

Romantic Rendezvous & Family Excursions

Island Adventures, Unparalleled Attractions & Exclusive Events

Exquisite Cuisine & luxury accommodations, with an unparalleled experience.

PRESIDENTIAL PENTHOUSE | 2 BEDROOM SUITE | SUPERIOR OCEAN VIEW | SUPERIOR BEACH FRONT THE MANOAH BOUTIQUE HOTEL Shoal Bay East Shoal Bay Village A.I. 2640 ANGUILLA B.W.I. www.the-manoah.com contact@the-manoah.com Tel : +1 264 498 5900

THOMAS J. HENRY

CELEBRATES ENGAGEMENT TO DR. ELENA

ALVAREZ-WESTWOOD

TBy Clara Morgan

homas J. Henry celebrated his engagement to Dr. Elena Alvarez Westwood with an epic celebration at the Fairmont El San Juan Hotel. Hundreds of guests traveled to San Juan, PR for an evening of live music and late-night dancing at the Isla Verde resort.

Guests arriving at the historic oceanfront property were greeted by an outdoor performance by the Earth Harp – a string instrument suspended across the entrance to the hotel with imagery matching the performance projected onto the hotel building. A lavish cocktail reception set against the hotel’s iconic lobby saw intricate ice sculptures and 35 musicians from the Philharmonic Orchestra of Puerto Rico who played familiar compositions with a Latin twist. The couple requested an “unplugged” experience to encourage guests to fully engage with and enjoy the festivities.

The night’s entertainment featured an extraordinary lineup of Marc Anthony, Ricky Martin  and other Latin superstars whose high-energy performances turned the engagement party into a private stadium-level concert that had guests on their feet from the first song.

Following the surprise performances, an outdoor drone show lit up the Caribbean sky above Isla Verde, choreographed to music and tracing celebratory patterns overhead. As the drones dimmed, a full  fireworks display erupted above the resort, drawing cheers from the crowd and setting the scene for the presentation of a birthday cake in honor of Dr. Alvarez-Westwood.

After the formalities, two DJs took over, transforming the celebration into a latenight dance party that continued into the early hours of the morning with the final performance of the celebration by Robby Elias from Miami.

Guests moved between indoor and outdoor spaces, enjoying signature cocktails, late-night bites and views of the resort’s palm-lined pools and shoreline.

One of the beautiful outcomes of this romance is the how this couple is seeking to transform lives of people around them. Their goal is to Build together on recent philanthropic work on the island, helping post-earthquake recovery of education services in Guayanilla and more recently as title sponsors of the American Cancer Society Puerto Rico Gala.

Dr. Alvarez-Westwood’s Hair was by Eddy Scudo and makeup by Hung Vanngo. She wore outfits from Paris fashion designers Zuhair Murad and Gustavo Arango from Puerto Rico. Guests departing the event were gifted a bottle of Don Q Gran Reserva Anejo Rum from Dr. Alvarez-Westwood’s hometown, Ponce, and Chocolates from Montadero

A NEW YORK MINUTE

THE SEASON OF LOVE & ROMANCE IN NYC

By Michael McKensie

February in New York invites a softer pace, where romance takes center stage and the city’s most intimate experiences shine. From candlelit dining rooms to skyline views and live music, these curated New York City destinations offer memorable ways to celebrate Valentine’s Day — through exceptional food, shared moments, and timeless atmosphere.

LE BERNARDIN

For couples who believe Valentine’s Day should feel truly exceptional, Le Bernardin remains one of New York City’s most refined dining experiences. The three-Michelin-star restaurant is synonymous with precision, elegance, and restraint — qualities that translate beautifully into a romantic evening.

The tasting menus highlight pristine seafood prepared with subtlety and balance, encouraging diners to slow down and savor each course together.

The serene Midtown dining room adds to the intimacy, making it ideal for couples celebrating milestones or simply wanting a night that feels elevated in every detail. Valentine’s reservations are highly sought after, and planning ahead is essential. www.le-bernardin.com

DANIEL

Daniel offers a Valentine’s experience rooted in French culinary tradition and polished sophistication. Chefdriven tasting menus, impeccable wine pairings, and an elegant Upper East Side setting make this a standout choice for couples who appreciate classic romance paired with world-class cuisine.

The dining room’s refined ambiance encourages an unhurried evening, where each course unfolds deliberately. Daniel is especially well suited for couples who want Valentine’s Day to feel formal, celebratory, and undeniably luxurious. www.danielnyc.com

ONE IF BY LAND, TWO IF BY SEA

Consistently named one of the most romantic restaurants in America, One If by Land, Two If by Sea is practically synonymous with Valentine’s Day in New York. Located in a historic carriage house in the West Village, the restaurant is defined by flickering fireplaces, candlelit tables, and an atmosphere that feels timeless rather than trendy.

The prix-fixe Valentine’s menus lean into classic luxury — rich entrées, elegant desserts, and attentive service designed for lingering conversation. It’s a destination for couples who want romance that feels traditional, intimate, and deeply personal. www.oneifbyland.com

NYC CITY CRUISES

For a Valentine’s celebration that pairs dining with unforgettable views, NYC City Cruises offers romantic dinner cruises along the Hudson and East Rivers. These Valentine’s sailings feature multi-course meals, live music, and sweeping nighttime views of Manhattan’s skyline — including the Statue of Liberty and Brooklyn Bridge illuminated after dark.

The experience feels both festive and intimate, making it ideal for couples who want something beyond a traditional restaurant setting. It’s a memorable way to see the city from a different perspective while celebrating the occasion. www.cityexperiences.com/new-york/city-cruises

RIVER CAFÉ

Perched along the Brooklyn waterfront, The River Café is one of New York’s most iconic romantic destinations. With sweeping views of the Manhattan skyline and a dining room that feels both refined and warmly personal, it has long been a favorite for Valentine’s celebrations.

The seasonal tasting menus focus on elegance and presentation, while the setting — especially at night — creates an unforgettable atmosphere. For couples willing to plan ahead, this is a quintessential New York Valentine’s experience. www.rivercafe.com

CANDLELIGHT CONCERTS

Throughout February, Candlelight Concerts transform historic and atmospheric New York venues into glowing, candlelit performance spaces. Valentine’s-themed programs often feature romantic classical pieces, film scores, and modern love songs performed by string ensembles, creating an immersive and emotionally resonant experience.

These concerts are an ideal complement to a Valentine’s dinner, offering couples a shared cultural moment that feels intimate and thoughtfully curated. Locations vary across Manhattan and Brooklyn, adding flexibility to date-night planning. feverup.com/en/new-york/candlelight

EATALY NYC FLATIRON

For couples who enjoy shared experiences as much as great food, Eataly NYC Flatiron offers Valentine’sthemed dinners and hands-on cooking classes throughout February. Pasta-making workshops followed by curated dinners allow couples to cook, learn, and dine together in a relaxed yet festive setting.

A playful alternative to traditional fine dining, perfect for couples who want something interactive without sacrificing quality or atmosphere. www.eataly.com/us_en/stores/nyc-flatiron

Explore the Finger Lakes

SIP, SAVOR & CELEBRATE THE SEASON

ABOUT US

The Cayuga Lake Wine Trail is your year-round destination for award-winning wines, scenic lake views, and festive events—all just a 4–6 hour drive from NYC. Nestled in the heart of the Finger Lakes, we’re proud to be America’s First Wine Trail, featuring 10 unique wineries ready to welcome you.

HOLIDAY SHOPPING SPREE

Can’t make it in person? No problem—many of our wineries offer online shopping so you can sip local from the comfort of home. 4hourdrivetime

Taste holiday wines, enjoy seasonal pairings, and collect handcrafted nutcracker ornaments at each stop! Bonus: get $5 off a $35 purchase at every winery. Choose your weekend: November 21–23 or December 5–7 Tickets & details at cayugawinetrail.com