Urban Agenda New York City

The Perfect Pied-à-Terre • Best Apps for NYC • Buy & Sell at Sotheby’s & Christie’s • Museum Cafés • Holiday Markets Famous New York Christmas Trees

$5.99 urbanagendamagazine.com

uR

ba

n

ag

en

da

:

ne

w

yo

Rk

c

it

y

h

ol

id

ay

20

12

Bergdorf GoodmanT h r o u g h a G l a s s , B r i g h t l y

Holiday

20

12

COVER_UA.2012FINAL.indd 1 11/9/12 9:24:01 AM

Urban_ad_Temp.indd 2 11/8/12 10:28:05 PM

70 M

ADIS

ON AVENUE 461 5

TH AVENUE RO

OSEVELT FIE

LD M

ALL W

ESTCHESTER M

ALL

200 G

REENW

ICH AVENUE SHO

RT HIL

LS bCbG.C

OM

BCBG 12016 F12 URBAN AGENDA NYC / USA__X AD COLLATERAL OVERSIZED/OUTDOOR OTHER

ROUTING/APPROVALS

CREATIVE AUTH.:

PRINT PRODUCER:

PROJECT/TRAFFIC MGR:

REQUESTER:

GWO: 11828BRAND: bCbgmAXAZRIATITLE: bCbg_12016_H12_URbAnAgEnDA_nYC_USADESIGNER: PATTY mARQUEZUSAGE DATES: 11/15/12 DUE DATE: 10/30/12FILE NAME: bCbg_12016_H12_URbAnAgEnDA_nYC_USA.InDDDEPT: CREATIVE SERVICESDATE: 10/25/12LIVE: 7.875″ X 10.355″ TRIM: 8.375″ X 10.875″ BLEED: 8.5″ X 11.125″SCALE: 100%COLOR: CmYKSPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS:

DATE

DATE

DATE

DATE

InITIAL DATE

InITIAL DATE

InITIAL DATE

InITIAL DATE

InITIAL DATE

InITIAL DATE

InITIAL DATE

InITIAL DATE

InITIAL DATE

InITIAL DATE

EDITS

EDITS

EDITS

EDITS

EDITS

EDITS

EDITS

EDITS

EDITS

EDITS

EDITS

EDITS

EDITS

EDITS


Holiday 2012URBAN AGENDA New York City 2

anne levin

paul grimes

contributors

Contributing editor Ellen Gilbert is a New York City native. She has a doctorate in library science from Columbia University, and has published books and articles on American publishing history, librarianship, and intellectual freedom.

Ingrid W. Reed lives in Princeton N.J. and shares a pied-à-terre in NYC with her husband and another couple. She has had a long career in academic administration including conducting research, writing and commenting on New Jersey politics and public affairs.

Freelance writer and aspiring anthropologist Dilshanie Perera is a native of Princeton who has lived in Chicago, Manhattan, and Sri Lanka. Now a Brooklyn resident, Dilshanie studies cities, both colonial and contemporary. While riding the subway, she often thinks about writing a book of short stories.

Israeli-born Ricky Zehavi fell in love with fine art photography when she came to New York City to study the harp with New York Philharmonic first harpist, Myor Rosen. During her nine-year stint with Ralph Lauren, she and her partner, John Cordes, launched Zehavi and Cordes Photography. Their clients include Bergdorf Goodman, Tiffany, Burberry, and Cartier.

Jessica Gross is a writer based in New York City. She’s contributed to The New York Times Magazine, The Paris Review Daily, and The Atlantic Cities, among other places.

Paul Grimes says that food styling is about storytelling (“you eat with your eyes first”) and he has been creating beautiful “stories” in cookbooks, magazines, advertising, and television for over 20 years. A former food editor and senior stylist at Gourmet magazine, Paul’s experiences include a stint as an assistant to Julia Child’s longtime-collaborator, the late Simone “Simca” Beck.

Contributing writer and Urban Agenda story editor Linda Arntzenius is also an oral historian, award-winning poet, and the author of a pictorial history, Images of America: Institute for Advanced Study. She regularly negotiates the NJ Transit system for visits to favorite museums, galleries, and midtown Manhattan muncheries, or simply to capture the revitalizing energy that is New York City.

Anne Levin writes about arts, culture, and other topics for Princeton Magazine. She also contributes regularly to WHERE GuestBook New York, Playbill, and other publications. She worked as Associate Editor at Cue Magazine for seven years before it merged with New York Magazine.

ellen gilbert

linda arntzenius

dilshanie perera

ricky zehavi

ingrid w. reed

jessica gross

ContributorsFinal.indd 2 11/9/12 9:04:32 AM

Girls!Glamour!Gershwin!“WHO COULD ASK FOR ANYTHING MORE!”

–New York Magazine

The TonyThe TonyThe TonyThe Tony®The Tony®The Tony-WinningWinningWinningNew Musical ComedyNew Musical ComedyNew Musical ComedyNew Musical ComedyNew Musical Comedy

Music and Lyrics by GEORGE & IRA GERSHWIN

Book by JOE DIPIETROinspired by material by GUY BOLTON and P.G.WODEHOUSE

Directed and Choreographed by KATHLEEN MARSHALL

Matthew BRODERICK Kelli O’HARA

telecharge.com | 212-239-6200NiceWorkOnBroadway.com OIMPERIAL THEATRE, 249 W. 45th St.

Phot

o by J

oan

Mar

cus


HOLIDAY 2012

ART SCENE

URBAN AGENDA New York City 4 HOLIDAY 2012

CONTENTS

B e r g d o r f G o o d m a n : T h r o u g h a G l a s s , B r i g h t l yBY DILSHANIE PERERA

PHOTOGRAPHY BY RICKY ZEHAVI AND JOHN CORDES

8

S O L D t o t h e H i g h e s t B i d d e r !BY ELLEN GILBERT

16

Fo r a B a c k S t a g e Vi e w o f t h e B i g Pa r a d e ,Tr y t h e N i g h t Before T h a n k s g i v i n g

BY LINDA ARNTZENIUS

22

M u s e u m C a f é s : M a ke a n A r t o f E a t i n g BY ANNE LEVIN

30

N YC , A p p - L a n dBY JESSICA GROSS

34

A P l a c e i n t h e C i t y :T h e A l l u r e o f t h e P i e d - à -Te r r e

BY INGRID W. REED

38

Ke y L i m e P i e w i t h t h e “ Q u e e n o f Q u i p s ”BY LINDA ARNTZENIUS

50

E s c a p e t h e M a d d i n g( H o l i d ay ) C r owd

BY PAUL GRIMES

54

8

30

44

34

22

38

16

50

Best Dressed Christmas Trees

44

Creative Gift-Giving

45

Hanukkah in Style

46

Pour Homme

48

Pour Femme

49

Calendar

56

ContentsFinal.indd 2 11/8/12 9:40:16 PM

COMMODA TUA ANTE NOSTRA

YOUR INTERESTS BEFORE OURS

856-985-8400 800-423-8044

www.meyercg.com

[email protected]

FIVE GREENTREE CENTRE | 525 ROUTE 73 NORTH, SUITE 312 | MARLTON, NEW JERSEY 08053

PHONE 856.985.8400 | FAX 856.985.8151

TOLL FREE

Meyer Capital Group is a fee-only investment management and financial planning firm. Our mission is to understand each client's needs and objectives and then deliver superior customer service. We are strongly committed to helping you protect your wealth using a thorough and disciplined investment approach. “Investment management is a relationship business. Meyer Capital Group collaborates with you to provide the best approach for managing your portfolio and securing other financial services. By joining the Meyer Capital Group family, we will help you to build a solid financial future.”

. . . . Thomas C. Meyer

Meyer Ad.indd 3 11/5/12 12:45:17 PMUrban_ad_Temp.indd 1 11/8/12 10:22:22 PM

holiday 2012

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Lynn Adams Smith

CREATIVE DIRECTOR Jorge Naranjo

ART DIRECTOR Jeffrey Edward Tryon

GRAPHIC DESIGNERS

Matthew DiFalcoKen Palmer

CONTRIBUTING EDITORS

Linda ArntzeniusEllen GilbertAnne Levin

Dilshanie PereraJessica Gross

Ingrid W. ReedPaul GrimesGina HookeyTaylor Smith

ADVERTISING DIRECTOR Robin Broomer

ACCOUNT MANAGERS Lindsey MelenickBozena BannettSophia KokkinosKristin McGeeney

Robert Warne

ADVERTISING ASSISTANTSJennifer CovillMollie Morgan

OPERATIONS MANAGER Melissa Bilyeu

PHOTOGRAPHERS Ricky Zehavi and John Cordes

IllUSTRATIONSRuth Strohl-Palmer

URBAN AGENDA: NEW YORK CITY Witherspoon Media Group305 Witherspoon Street

Princeton, NJ 08542P: 609.924.5400F: 609.924.8818

urbanagendamagazine.com

Advertising opportunities: 609.924.5400

Media Kit available onurbanagendamagazine.com

Subscription information: 609.924.5400

Editorial suggestions:[email protected]

Urban agenda: New york City is published 6 times a year with a circulation of 50,000. all rights reserved. Nothing herein may be reproduced in whole or in part without

written permission of the publisher. To purchase PdF files or reprints, please call 609.924.5400 or e-mail [email protected].

Gloria Nilson, Realtors, Real LivingURBAN AGENDA NYC

November 2012CMYK - 2/3 Page 4.833” x 9.875”

11-6-12

www.glorianilson.com

© Gloria Nilson, REALTORS®, Real Living® An ndependently owned and operated firm

At Gloria Nilson REALTORS® Real Living® we help our clients find the perfect home. Our reputation for professional personal servicehas made us one of the leading sources for distinctive real estate throughout New Jersey. And as an affiliate of Elegant Homes International,we are also a link to an incredible worldwide network of premier properties.Whether you are buying or selling real estate, log on to our website or stopby any of our convenient offices. We’ll be here ready to help make itall happen for you.

Our REALTOR®?Gloria Nilson, Real Living®

of course.

6 holiday 2012URBAN AGENDA New York City

MASTHEAD_URBANHoliday2012.indd 2 11/8/12 9:41:42 PM

Available Exclusively at Kleinfeld - 110 West 20th Street, NYC - By Appointment Only 646-633-4300

for

for

for

Available Exclusively at Kleinfeld - 110 West 20th Street, NYC - By Appointment Only 646-633-4300

for

for

for

KleinfeldFP.indd 2 11/8/12 1:57:58 PMUrban_ad_Temp.indd 1 11/8/12 10:31:10 PM

What do taxidermied polar bears, millions of sea shells and a

Naeem Khan-designed sailor suithave in common? They've all beenfeatured in the holiday windows at

Bergdorf Goodman where the yuletide displays get more spectacular every year.

The windows defy reason, existing somewhere between performance,

diorama, high fashion and high concept. And that’s no accident.

David Hoey, the man behind the glass,is part artist, part magician.

He brings the astonishing to life.

BRIGHTLY{BY DILSHANIE PERERA}

Photography by Ricky Zehavi and John Cordes

THR UGH A GLASS,

30 HOLIDAY 2012 HOLIDAY 2012 9URBAN AGENDA New York City URBAN AGENDA New York City

Bergdorf_Temp.indd 2 11/8/12 9:42:53 PM

What do taxidermied polar bears, millions of sea shells and a

Naeem Khan-designed sailor suithave in common? They've all beenfeatured in the holiday windows at

Bergdorf Goodman where the yuletide displays get more spectacular every year.

The windows defy reason, existing somewhere between performance,

diorama, high fashion and high concept. And that’s no accident.

David Hoey, the man behind the glass,is part artist, part magician.

He brings the astonishing to life.

BRIGHTLY{BY DILSHANIE PERERA}

Photography by Ricky Zehavi and John Cordes

THR UGH A GLASS,



We love maximalism," says David Hoey, who refers to himself as a window dresser even though his title at Bergdorf Goodman is Senior Director of Visual Presentation. For Hoey, the holiday displays exude a "madcap opulence," embodying the "character of a

hallucination." Hoey’s inspiration for dressing up the store’s 35 street-level windows comes from everywhere: “High culture, low culture, dreams, chance happenings, museum outings, gallery-going,” he lists without pause. The results showcase elegance and luxury without ever straying into the realm of the vulgar. This is dignified ostentation. Hoey’s designs always intimate a story. Take for instance, one of the show-stopping displays from last year’s holiday series. The overarching theme was “Carnival of the Animals” and this particular window was overstuffed with antique wooden animals and artists’ models, all breathlessly gathered around the scene’s protagonist, a mannequin clad in vestments by Valentino, Celine, and Pringle of Scotland. At the center of this menagerie, she’s feeding her wooden horse a wooden apple while wielding a wooden mallet. And looking damn fine meanwhile. “We don’t tell a literal story. It’s more a matter of suggestion,” Hoey laughs, “We don’t give it all up verbally.” On the other side of the glass, our interest is piqued by the gorgeous clothes, the meticulous stage set, the sheer amount of stuff, much of which takes years to collect and source. There’s a symbiotic relationship between the couture and the sumptuous displays. “The fashion is as important as the environment that we put it in,” acknowledges Hoey. “The fashion we put in our holiday windows is always over the top, highly theatrical pieces.” He and his collaborator Linda Fargo, Senior Vice President of Bergdorf Goodman’s fashion office and store presentation, have developed strong relationships with fashion designers, to the point where the industry’s big names will sometimes custom create a piece or two specially for a window to complement the season’s theme. The Naeem Khan-designed stylized sailor suit is one such example. One year, Hoey and his team were developing plans for a nautical window when they realized that this story’s lead would need to be sporting a jaunty ensemble reminiscent of the seafarers of yore. “We wanted it to look a little bit like the outfit Barbra Streisand wore to the 1969 Academy Awards,” Hoey said. So they explained their idea to the Indian-born American fashion designer Khan, and subsequently delighted in the centerpiece look he created.

THREE-SECOND RULE

In the city’s hectic bustle, it’s sometimes difficult to catch someone’s eye even with a 14-foot tall display window in which the entire landscape is made out of finely cut paper or bedecked with mirrors. “The windows have to be designed so that they make sense in 3 seconds,” explains Hoey. The fast-walking passerby needs to be able to understand some of that unfolding story with a quick glance. But those who want to stop and stare are in for even more of a treat. The windows are so packed that you could look for a while and still discover new details and previously unseen corners. The window dressers at Bergdorf Goodman shy away from controversy, but are not opposed to startling people. Hoey reports that the scenes on display never relate to current events. This is in keeping with the timeless quality that the holiday windows exude. “They’re not nostalgic, but there’s a nod to the past in a very contemporary way,” he says. The visual presentation team hunts for old collectibles, they only occasionally use computers to assist in modeling their plans, they work primarily by hand, they build things from scratch, and last year they learned an Italian mosaic tesserae technique that hearkens back to the ancient Romans. “This is an old-fashioned profession. There is little that we do that is very modern in terms of technique. We’re not high tech ever.” It’s always a balance, according to Hoey. “We use antiques, but we’re never stuffy about the way we use them.”

10 HOLIDAY 2012 31URBAN AGENDA New York City


We love maximalism," says David Hoey, who refers to himself as a window dresser even though his title at Bergdorf Goodman is Senior Director of Visual Presentation. For Hoey, the holiday displays exude a "madcap opulence," embodying the "character of a

hallucination." Hoey’s inspiration for dressing up the store’s 35 street-level windows comes from everywhere: “High culture, low culture, dreams, chance happenings, museum outings, gallery-going,” he lists without pause. The results showcase elegance and luxury without ever straying into the realm of the vulgar. This is dignified ostentation. Hoey’s designs always intimate a story. Take for instance, one of the show-stopping displays from last year’s holiday series. The overarching theme was “Carnival of the Animals” and this particular window was overstuffed with antique wooden animals and artists’ models, all breathlessly gathered around the scene’s protagonist, a mannequin clad in vestments by Valentino, Celine, and Pringle of Scotland. At the center of this menagerie, she’s feeding her wooden horse a wooden apple while wielding a wooden mallet. And looking damn fine meanwhile. “We don’t tell a literal story. It’s more a matter of suggestion,” Hoey laughs, “We don’t give it all up verbally.” On the other side of the glass, our interest is piqued by the gorgeous clothes, the meticulous stage set, the sheer amount of stuff, much of which takes years to collect and source. There’s a symbiotic relationship between the couture and the sumptuous displays. “The fashion is as important as the environment that we put it in,” acknowledges Hoey. “The fashion we put in our holiday windows is always over the top, highly theatrical pieces.” He and his collaborator Linda Fargo, Senior Vice President of Bergdorf Goodman’s fashion office and store presentation, have developed strong relationships with fashion designers, to the point where the industry’s big names will sometimes custom create a piece or two specially for a window to complement the season’s theme. The Naeem Khan-designed stylized sailor suit is one such example. One year, Hoey and his team were developing plans for a nautical window when they realized that this story’s lead would need to be sporting a jaunty ensemble reminiscent of the seafarers of yore. “We wanted it to look a little bit like the outfit Barbra Streisand wore to the 1969 Academy Awards,” Hoey said. So they explained their idea to the Indian-born American fashion designer Khan, and subsequently delighted in the centerpiece look he created.

THREE-SECOND RULE

In the city’s hectic bustle, it’s sometimes difficult to catch someone’s eye even with a 14-foot tall display window in which the entire landscape is made out of finely cut paper or bedecked with mirrors. “The windows have to be designed so that they make sense in 3 seconds,” explains Hoey. The fast-walking passerby needs to be able to understand some of that unfolding story with a quick glance. But those who want to stop and stare are in for even more of a treat. The windows are so packed that you could look for a while and still discover new details and previously unseen corners. The window dressers at Bergdorf Goodman shy away from controversy, but are not opposed to startling people. Hoey reports that the scenes on display never relate to current events. This is in keeping with the timeless quality that the holiday windows exude. “They’re not nostalgic, but there’s a nod to the past in a very contemporary way,” he says. The visual presentation team hunts for old collectibles, they only occasionally use computers to assist in modeling their plans, they work primarily by hand, they build things from scratch, and last year they learned an Italian mosaic tesserae technique that hearkens back to the ancient Romans. “This is an old-fashioned profession. There is little that we do that is very modern in terms of technique. We’re not high tech ever.” It’s always a balance, according to Hoey. “We use antiques, but we’re never stuffy about the way we use them.”



U

IN TOUCH WITH THE ZEITGEISTHoey and his staff have a retinue of specialists on call and together they begin designing and collecting materials for the holiday windows sometimes years in advance. The task requires planning as much as imagination. While readying the spectacular scenes reserved for the holidays, Hoey and his designers are also working on the store's other window displays, which change every two weeks. In the course of a year, they produce over 250 unique windows. Most are installed within hours overnight. Compared to a museum or gallery, which Hoey points out have the luxury of weeks or sometimes months to mount an exhibition, window dressers work at a breakneck pace. The constant turnaround during the year is “a chance for the store to be in touch with the zeitgeist up to the split second.” The reason the window displays can be so grand is in part because of Bergdorf Goodman’s flagship store. There’s just one. The window designers can allow their creativity to roam without having the additional burden of making the concept as well as the content reproducible for hundreds of stores nationwide. As a result, Hoey and his crew put themselves under constant pressure to outdo each previous holiday window display they’ve created. It’s a job in which you “want to astonish people” but also surprise yourself. After innovating at Bergdorf for 16 years, as Hoey has, one might suspect that new ideas and new themes become harder to come by, but the tireless artists find a way. Every year there is also a holiday window that features one kind of material,

which ends up covering most surfaces. The substances have been as diverse as seashells, paper, wood and hair. This year it’s feathers. Because it is Bergdorf Goodman’s 111th anniversary this year, Hoey and the window dressers have been working overtime, particularly this autumn when the store’s anniversary celebration kicked off. They thoroughly researched the history of the department store by combing through archives of old photos, blueprints and advertisements with over a century’s worth of material for the birthday tribute. The level of detail showcased in each display has a very holiday window-like feel. Hoey characterizes his job as having two separate workloads: holiday and non-holiday (that is, the rest of the year), both of which occur simultaneously. About 60 percent of the department’s yearly resources in terms of budget and labor go into the holiday windows. This year’s theme, which was specially disclosed to Urban Agenda, is “Bergdorf Goodman Follies of 2012,” a 1920s and 1930s-inspired tribute to vaudeville. Think Ziegfeld Follies in high fashion. Hoey assures us that there will be “surprises galore.” Asked whether it will be a relief when the holiday windows are finally installed and in place for the season, Hoey laughs. “We allow ourselves to be dazzled by them for a couple of minutes, and then it’s on to next year!”



U

IN TOUCH WITH THE ZEITGEISTHoey and his staff have a retinue of specialists on call and together they begin designing and collecting materials for the holiday windows sometimes years in advance. The task requires planning as much as imagination. While readying the spectacular scenes reserved for the holidays, Hoey and his designers are also working on the store's other window displays, which change every two weeks. In the course of a year, they produce over 250 unique windows. Most are installed within hours overnight. Compared to a museum or gallery, which Hoey points out have the luxury of weeks or sometimes months to mount an exhibition, window dressers work at a breakneck pace. The constant turnaround during the year is “a chance for the store to be in touch with the zeitgeist up to the split second.” The reason the window displays can be so grand is in part because of Bergdorf Goodman’s flagship store. There’s just one. The window designers can allow their creativity to roam without having the additional burden of making the concept as well as the content reproducible for hundreds of stores nationwide. As a result, Hoey and his crew put themselves under constant pressure to outdo each previous holiday window display they’ve created. It’s a job in which you “want to astonish people” but also surprise yourself. After innovating at Bergdorf for 16 years, as Hoey has, one might suspect that new ideas and new themes become harder to come by, but the tireless artists find a way. Every year there is also a holiday window that features one kind of material,

which ends up covering most surfaces. The substances have been as diverse as seashells, paper, wood and hair. This year it’s feathers. Because it is Bergdorf Goodman’s 111th anniversary this year, Hoey and the window dressers have been working overtime, particularly this autumn when the store’s anniversary celebration kicked off. They thoroughly researched the history of the department store by combing through archives of old photos, blueprints and advertisements with over a century’s worth of material for the birthday tribute. The level of detail showcased in each display has a very holiday window-like feel. Hoey characterizes his job as having two separate workloads: holiday and non-holiday (that is, the rest of the year), both of which occur simultaneously. About 60 percent of the department’s yearly resources in terms of budget and labor go into the holiday windows. This year’s theme, which was specially disclosed to Urban Agenda, is “Bergdorf Goodman Follies of 2012,” a 1920s and 1930s-inspired tribute to vaudeville. Think Ziegfeld Follies in high fashion. Hoey assures us that there will be “surprises galore.” Asked whether it will be a relief when the holiday windows are finally installed and in place for the season, Hoey laughs. “We allow ourselves to be dazzled by them for a couple of minutes, and then it’s on to next year!”



Rooms you Love to Live in

DL 11-12.indd 1 11/8/12 1:43:21 PMUrban_ad_Temp.indd 1 11/8/12 10:41:29 PM

DESIGN STUDIO & RETAIL SHOWROOM 6 East Main Street, Mendham, NJ 07945 • 973.543.6429Monday by appointment • Tuesday-Friday 10-6 • Saturday 10-4

funhousefurnishings.com

DESIGN STUDIO & RETAIL SHOWROOM 6 East Main Street, Mendham, NJ 07945 • 973.543.6429Monday by appointment • Tuesday-Friday 10-6 • Saturday 10-4

funhousefurnishings.com

FunHouseFP.indd 2 11/8/12 1:29:22 PMUrban_ad_Temp.indd 1 11/8/12 10:44:13 PM

30 Holiday 2012

ART SCENE

URBAN AGENDA New York City

AuctionHouseFINAL.indd 2 11/8/12 9:33:44 PM

HOLIDAY 2012 URBAN AGENDA New York City 17

any of us have probably had a similar fantasy: a beloved older member of the family passes away and it is time to dismantle

and sell the old house where aunts, uncles, and grandparents lived for years and years.

M

to the Highest Bidder!SOLD

{ B Y E L L E N G I L B E R T }

In May of this year, a version of Edvard Munch’s The Scream fetched $120 million, the most ever paid for an artwork at auction. Image courtesy Wikimedia Commons.

AuctionHouseFINAL.indd 3 11/9/12 9:31:21 AM

HOLIDAY 2012URBAN AGENDA New York City 18

ost of the paintings, rugs, silverware, and memorabilia (remember Queen Elizabeth II’s coronation? The 1964 World’s fair?) are, presumably, junk, and in such disrepair that getting rid of them seems like a thankless task. But look: the back is coming away from that terrible picture that hung forever in Aunt Tillie’s room.

Wait a second; there’s something behind the picture. . . it’s an oil. . . ballerinas. . . says D-E-G-A-S in the corner. Or perhaps you imagine coming upon what seems to be an unassuming piece of jewelry from your great-grandmother that turns out to have the inscription, “de Napoleon a Josephine avec amour”? Keep dreaming. While there may not be any EUREKA! items in the lot, there just may be, however, some things that are intriguing enough to have appraised for their sale potential. Auction houses cast a wide net. Christie’s, the granddaddy of auction houses, has departments for 19th Century European Art, 19th Century Furniture and Sculpture, 20th Century Decorative Art and Design, African and Oceanic Art, American Furniture and Decorative Arts, Chinese Ceramics and Works of Art, Indian and Southeast Asian Art, Musical Instruments, Post-War and Contemporary Art, Watches and Wristwatches—you get the idea.

AUCTION TRADITIONS

Auctions are documented to have taken place as early as 500 B.C., when women were routinely auctioned off as brides. While their matrimonial function has long since ceased to exist, auctions continue to be a popular method for selling property. While Antiques Roadshow is good entertainment and eBay fi lls a practical niche, there’s nothing like an old-fashioned, classy auction where the ambience is hushed, participants demurely hold up numbered paddles to signal a bid, and the promise of an unexpected bidding war adds to the genteel excitement. Among New York City auction-houses, Christie’s and Sotheby’s rule; Doyle also commands respect, and websites for the three

are replete with information about the process of having an item appraised and entered into an auction. Christie’s, for example, reports that it “is pleased to provide, at no charge, auction estimates for items that are of a type and value typically sold at Christie’s.” You are asked to complete an online request form and are promised a response within four to six weeks. The process is, obviously not meant for those who need immediate gratifi cation, and a cautionary note lets potential sellers know “that all estimates are provisional and subject to revision on personal examination by a specialist.” Sotheby’s promises to “assist you through the entire auction process.” Once a property has been deemed appropriate for sale at auction, their “specialists will orchestrate every detail, from setting estimates to cataloguing your property and marketing it to prospective buyers worldwide.”

AUTHENTICITY

Supporting documentation is usually required with each submission. In addition to the dimensions of an item, you may be asked for front and back color images of it; a close-up of the signature or maker’s mark; the item’s provenance (i.e., when, where, and how it was acquired); certifi cates of authenticity; and copies of appraisals or any literature relating to it. A charming video created by Sotheby’s, narrated by an Englishman with a plummy voice, walks you through all the steps, and makes it look easy: http://www.sothebys.com/en/buysell/sell.html. In what may be something of an understatement, Sotheby’s notes that they have “a proven track record in achieving prices that meet or exceed pre-sale estimates.” In May of this year, a version of Edvard Munch’s The Scream fetched $120 million, the most ever paid for an artwork at auction. Five bidders competed for what is one of four versions created by Munch; a telephone bidder prevailed.

M

Sotheby’s New YorkImportant Jewels20 September 2012Lot 490Property of a LadyFancy Light Pink DiamondThe round brilliant-cut Fancy Light Pink Diamond weighing 5.08 carats.Est. $500/700,000Sold for $1,426,500

Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, Offi cial White House portrait.

Sotheby’s New YorkAmerican Paintings, Drawings & Sculpture28 September 2012Karl Albert Buehr Young Woman on a Porch oil on canvas45 by 37 in.Est. $30,000/50,000Sold for $188,500

Imag

es

Co

urt

esy

So

theb

y’s

New

Yo

rk; W

ikim

ed

ia C

om

mo

ns.

AuctionHouseFINAL.indd 4 11/9/12 9:32:55 AM


Name recognition doesn’t hurt, of course. The sale of Elizabeth Taylor’s collected bijoux was a “landmark” auction for Christie’s, realizing a combined total of $156,756,576, with every item sold. It was reported that “the sale drew unprecedented interest from bidders throughout the world” vying for one or more of the collection’s 1,778 lots of jewelry, fashion, decorative arts and fi lm memorabilia. The total far exceeded Christie’s pre-sale expectations for the sale as a whole, and individual items “were frequently hammered down for fi ve, ten, or even 50 times their estimate in some cases.” Anything remotely associated with Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis is likely to draw a good price. Such was the demand for tickets to the 1996 Sotheby’s sale of her estate that a lottery was needed. Items on the block were not necessarily the best of their kind, and included “a faded kilim from the living room, with threadbare patches on its grape pattern” and “frivolous bibelots.” What was described as a “feeding frenzy on Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis’ estate” added up to a four-day total of $34.5 million, exceeding Sotheby’s expectations by 750 percent. The auction house’s most optimistic projection had been $4.6 million. In England, a 2010 sale of jewelry that once belonged to Wallis Simpson that was expected to net £5million, raised more than £30 million for Mrs. Simpson’s charity, the Pasteur Institute for Medical Research. The story of the king who relinquished his throne for the love of a woman is, apparently, still compelling. This second sale of the Duchess’s brooches, necklaces and more was breathlessly described in the London press as the “jewels that charted her romance with King Edward VIII.” It included a diamond charm bracelet with nine inscribed crosses that Mrs. Simpson wore on her wedding day. Writer Adrian Woodhouse is quoted as saying that the atmosphere at the event “was electric” as “the bidding just went wild.” He suggested that “because it was all for charity, people seemed to feel there was no need to hold back.” Whatever the reason, it seemed that “everyone wanted a piece of this love story.”

Catalogs of auctions of possessions once owned by the glitterati are considered valuable in and of themselves. The $45 catalogue of the Onassis sale sold more than 18,000 copies. Doyle does some not-too-shabby name-dropping as well. “Through the years,” they report, “Doyle New York has auctioned the estates of Hollywood legends James Cagney, Gloria Swanson, Bette Davis, Rock Hudson, Rex Harrison and Ruth Gordon.” Other estates proudly handled by Doyle include those of “legendary New York City Opera soprano Beverly Sills and musicians Louis Armstrong, Duke Ellington and Count Basie.” Doyle also auctioned the estate of Lady Sarah Consuelo Spencer-Churchill, sister of the Duke of Marlborough and granddaughter of American heiress Consuelo Vanderbilt. Restaurant goers who remember mid-and late 20th century New York mainstays may be interested to know that Doyle did on-site auctions for Maxwell’s Plum and the Russian Tea Room. Like Christie’s and Sotheby’s, Doyle is an international operation with “marketing alliances” in Europe and Asia. Swann Auction Gallery, which started in 1941 with a focus on rare books, has expanded its purview in recent years with events like this fall’s sale of “19th and 20th Century Prints and Drawings.” Its forte, though, may still be books and anything having to do with the written word. This year’s fall season, for example, kicked off with a sale “Fine and Vintage Writing Instruments” that featured “limited edition and luxury pens from the most respected manufacturers as well as historical rarities.” Be sure to check the drawers in Uncle Joe’s old desk.

Christie’s New York location is at 20 Rockefeller Plaza; telephone (212) 636-2000. Sotheby’s is at 1334 York Avenue; telephone (212) 606-7000. Doyle’s main offi ce is at 175 East 87th Street; telephone (212)-427-2730; and Swann requires a trip downtown to 104 East 25th Street; telephone (212) 254-4710.

Sotheby’s New YorkAmerican Paintings, Drawings & Sculpture28 September 2012Lot 123Norman RockwellIs He Coming?signed Norman Rockwell, l.r.oil on canvas31 1/4 by 27 in.79.4 by 68.6 cm.Painted in 1919.Est. $200/300,000Sold for $602,500

Sotheby’s New YorkImportant Jewels20 September 2012Lot 391Property of a GentlemanGold and Fancy Intense Orangy-Pink Diamond PendantSet with a pear-shaped fancy intense orangy-pink diamond weighing 3.09 carats, together with a 10 karat gold chain, length 18Ð inches.Est. $350/450,000Sold for $770,500

Sotheby’s New YorkImportant Americana27 September 2012Lot 205Property from a Connecticut EstateThe Huntington Family Chippendale Carved and Figured Mahogany Chest-on-Chest, Boston, Massachusetts, circa 1770Appears to retains its original ornate cast brass hardware.Height 89 1/2 in. by Width 42 1/2 in. by Depth 20 1/2 in.Est. $25/50,000

AuctionHouseFINAL.indd 5 11/8/12 9:34:49 PM

20 URBAN AGENDA New York City HOLIDAY 2012

609-902-3637www.princetontourcompany.com

We’ll introduce you to the dynamic history of Princeton while seeing the homes and hangouts of Albert Einstein, Robert Oppenheimer, Woodrow Wilson, Grover Cleveland, TS Eliot, F Scott Fitzgerald, Thomas Mann, Toni Morrison, Robert Wood Johnson, William Bristol, J Seward Johnson, Michael Graves, the REAL Indiana Jones and MORE!

$15 Per PersonIncludes $25 Gift Certificate to Hamilton Jewelers

Rated #1 Princeton Attraction by TripAdvisor

and AAA Magazine

Beginning November 24th through December 29th, we offer one hour trolley rides of Princeton!

Many thanks to the generous sponsors Palmer Square and Callaway Henderson Sotheby’s International Realty for bringing these tours to Princeton!

609-902-3637EXCLUSIVE TWO-DAY EVENT.

FRIDAY, MAY 27TH. LAWRENCEVILLE.ALT. ROUTE ONE, LAWRENCEVILLE • NOON-8PM

FOR INFO, PLEASE CALL 609.771.9400

SATURDAY, MAY 28TH. PRINCETON.92 NASSAU STREET, PRINCETON • 10AM-6PM

FOR INFO, PLEASE CALL 609.683.4200

HAMILTON JEWELERS PRESENTS

Visit Hamilton Jewelers to join in our weekend-long celebration of new timepieces from notable brands, such as Rolex, Cartier,

Patek Philippe, Breitling and Chanel.

This event is a distinctive opportunity for watch connoisseurs to view the latest in

timepiece design and function.

hamiltonjewelers.com

www.palmersquare.com

Memorable Holiday Shopping

Free Parking in our garages

Gift Giving

Santa’s Coming

Music Playing

New Stores Opening!

Delicious Dining

Late Shopping!Memories in the

making

Be sure to visit us online for a complete list of details regarding dates & times for free parking, late hours and entertainment schedule.

With over 45 stores and restaurants, plus holiday fun, it’s the most wonderful time of the year to discover all that Palmer Square has to offer.


The Morgan Library & Museumthemorgan.org225 Madison Ave. at 36th St.

Holidays at the Morgan

Beatrix Potter (1866–1943), Autograph letter to Noel Moore, February 4, 1895; p. 2 and 3, The Morgan Library & Museum, New York. MA 2009.2. Gift of Colonel David McC. McKell, 1959. Pierpont Morgan’s 1906 Library. Photography by Graham S. Haber, 2010. The Morgan Shop. Photography by Michel De-nancé. Charles Dickens (1812–1870), A Christmas Carol in Prose. Being a Ghost Story of Christmas, London: Chapman and Hall, 1843, The Morgan Library & Museum, New York. Photography: Graham S. Haber.

Holiday Americana and A Christmas CarolThrough January 13Beatrix Potter: The Picture LettersThrough January 27

Caroling at the MorganFriday, December 14 & 21, 6:30−8:30 pm Holiday Shopping HoursMondays from November 26–December 24, 10:30 am−5 pm. The Shop will also be open during regular museum hours.

Winter Family DayDecember 2, 2−5 pm


{BY LINDA ARNTZENIUS}

Ballo

on

ph

oto

s: S

hu

tters

tock.c

om

FOR A BACK STAGE VIEWOF THE BIG PARADE,TRY THE NIGHT

THANKSGIVINGBEFORE

Ask anyone about the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade and the �rst thing they are likely to tell you is to get there early. This year, why not think about going a whole day early to watch the big balloons being in�ated. One of the best kept secrets of the Parade is seeing Snoopy and Mickey Mouse taking shape the night before Thanksgiving. It’s been a popular family event for New Yorkers since 1927, almost as far back as the �rst parade in 1924.


MACYS_FINAL.indd 2 11/8/12 9:47:44 PM


Ballo

on

ph

oto

s: S

hu

tters

tock.c

om

FOR A BACK STAGE VIEWOF THE BIG PARADE,TRY THE NIGHT

THANKSGIVINGBEFORE

Ask anyone about the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade and the �rst thing they are likely to tell you is to get there early. This year, why not think about going a whole day early to watch the big balloons being in�ated. One of the best kept secrets of the Parade is seeing Snoopy and Mickey Mouse taking shape the night before Thanksgiving. It’s been a popular family event for New Yorkers since 1927, almost as far back as the �rst parade in 1924.



alloon characters are blown up and brought to life in the streets around the American Museum of Natural History, where they are secured overnight with nets and sandbags just so they don’t take flight too soon. Visitors with young kids might prefer this event, scheduled to begin at 3PM and end at 8PM on 77th &

81st Streets between Central Park West and Columbus Avenue. By about 5PM the balloons have started to look like their characters. “It’s very well organized and lots of families show up,” says Ingrid W. Reed (see her story, page 38). “The police do an amazing job of informing the crowd of where to go and while you have to stand in line, you really get an appreciation of all that goes into the parade backstage: the number of people it takes, the trucks, the electrical wires, the lighting. It’s amazing. The crews seem to work as if they are in a dance performance, a ballet of sorts.” Reed’s tip for getting the most out of the event on Parade Day itself is, of course, to get there as early as you can. “That’s a must,” says Reed, “but even if you don’t, the balloons are so high up that you can get a view of them from any of the side streets along the route that are closed to automobile traffic.” Reed has seen people even bring ladders out onto the street! For this year’s 86th annual Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, a new route promises to make the event accessible to more New Yorkers and visitors than ever before. On Thursday, November 22, at 9AM, dozens of floats, balloons, clowns, cheerleaders, dancers and marching bands will set off from 77th Street and Central Park West on their way to Macy’s flagship store in Herald Square. But instead of traveling down Seventh Avenue, the Parade will take Sixth Avenue, cutting out Times Square entirely. Around three million people are expected to line the streets for the free three-hour event that involves more than 10,000 participants, giant character balloons: and old favorites like Mickey Mouse, Bugs Bunny, Snoopy, Kermit the Frog, Spider-Man, SpongeBob SquarePants and Buzz Lightyear, as well as more recent additions like Hello Kitty, Kung Fu Panda, Julius the Sock Monkey and the Aflac Duck. Another 50 million are expected to watch it live on NBC TV from 9PM to 12 NOON.

CHARACTER BALLOONS

Today’s balloons are the results of high tech work by a team of artists, engineers, animators and crafts-people. An initial two-dimensional color sketch is evaluated by engineers for the required aerodynamic properties. Successful balloons must not only look good, they must fly and maintain the right mix of artistic personality, size and volume. When a design has been approved scientifically and artistically, it is made at the Macy’s Parade Studio which moved last year from Hoboken to a new 72,000-square-foot facility in Moonachie, New Jersey. Animators then give life to wood, steel, fiberglass, foam and fabric. Once assembled, balloons are tested for leaks. Each balloon is made up of zippered chambers, each with its own inflation device and high pressure valve. In 2006, a world-wide shortage of helium led to fewer balloons. Organizers considered using no balloons at all, but the public outcry led them to reconsider. In the earliest years, Macy’s employees and professional entertainers dressed up to march with floats and live animals on loan from the Central Park Zoo. Since 1927, the zoo animals have been replaced by animal-shaped balloons, first made by the Goodyear Tire and Rubber Company in Akron, Ohio. Felix the Cat was the first and he was filled with air rather than the helium used today. At the end of the 1928 parade, the helium-filled balloons were released. When they burst unexpectedly, designers added safety valves that allowed them to float for a few days before deflating. Store employees sewed labels onto the balloons and Macy’s sent a gift to anyone who found one and mailed it back to the store. Although Mickey Mouse was introduced in 1934, Donald Duck had to wait until 1962. Olive Oyl with her baby Sweetpea was the first female character introduced in 1982. Betty Boop came along in 1985. The dates of introduction of characters reads like a cultural history of sorts: Uncle Sam in 1938, Superman in 1939; Kermit the Frog in 1977; Bugs Bunny in 1989; Clifford the Big Red Dog and Bart Simpson in 1990; Barney the Dinosaur in 1994; Scooby-Doo in 2005; Shrek in 2007; and the Pillsbury Doughboy in 2009.

B


Ballo

on

ph

oto

s: S

hu

tters

tock.c

om

Ballo

on

ph

oto

s: S

hu

tters

tock.c

om


alloon characters are blown up and brought to life in the streets around the American Museum of Natural History, where they are secured overnight with nets and sandbags just so they don’t take flight too soon. Visitors with young kids might prefer this event, scheduled to begin at 3PM and end at 8PM on 77th &

81st Streets between Central Park West and Columbus Avenue. By about 5PM the balloons have started to look like their characters. “It’s very well organized and lots of families show up,” says Ingrid W. Reed (see her story, page 38). “The police do an amazing job of informing the crowd of where to go and while you have to stand in line, you really get an appreciation of all that goes into the parade backstage: the number of people it takes, the trucks, the electrical wires, the lighting. It’s amazing. The crews seem to work as if they are in a dance performance, a ballet of sorts.” Reed’s tip for getting the most out of the event on Parade Day itself is, of course, to get there as early as you can. “That’s a must,” says Reed, “but even if you don’t, the balloons are so high up that you can get a view of them from any of the side streets along the route that are closed to automobile traffic.” Reed has seen people even bring ladders out onto the street! For this year’s 86th annual Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, a new route promises to make the event accessible to more New Yorkers and visitors than ever before. On Thursday, November 22, at 9AM, dozens of floats, balloons, clowns, cheerleaders, dancers and marching bands will set off from 77th Street and Central Park West on their way to Macy’s flagship store in Herald Square. But instead of traveling down Seventh Avenue, the Parade will take Sixth Avenue, cutting out Times Square entirely. Around three million people are expected to line the streets for the free three-hour event that involves more than 10,000 participants, giant character balloons: and old favorites like Mickey Mouse, Bugs Bunny, Snoopy, Kermit the Frog, Spider-Man, SpongeBob SquarePants and Buzz Lightyear, as well as more recent additions like Hello Kitty, Kung Fu Panda, Julius the Sock Monkey and the Aflac Duck. Another 50 million are expected to watch it live on NBC TV from 9PM to 12 NOON.

CHARACTER BALLOONS

Today’s balloons are the results of high tech work by a team of artists, engineers, animators and crafts-people. An initial two-dimensional color sketch is evaluated by engineers for the required aerodynamic properties. Successful balloons must not only look good, they must fly and maintain the right mix of artistic personality, size and volume. When a design has been approved scientifically and artistically, it is made at the Macy’s Parade Studio which moved last year from Hoboken to a new 72,000-square-foot facility in Moonachie, New Jersey. Animators then give life to wood, steel, fiberglass, foam and fabric. Once assembled, balloons are tested for leaks. Each balloon is made up of zippered chambers, each with its own inflation device and high pressure valve. In 2006, a world-wide shortage of helium led to fewer balloons. Organizers considered using no balloons at all, but the public outcry led them to reconsider. In the earliest years, Macy’s employees and professional entertainers dressed up to march with floats and live animals on loan from the Central Park Zoo. Since 1927, the zoo animals have been replaced by animal-shaped balloons, first made by the Goodyear Tire and Rubber Company in Akron, Ohio. Felix the Cat was the first and he was filled with air rather than the helium used today. At the end of the 1928 parade, the helium-filled balloons were released. When they burst unexpectedly, designers added safety valves that allowed them to float for a few days before deflating. Store employees sewed labels onto the balloons and Macy’s sent a gift to anyone who found one and mailed it back to the store. Although Mickey Mouse was introduced in 1934, Donald Duck had to wait until 1962. Olive Oyl with her baby Sweetpea was the first female character introduced in 1982. Betty Boop came along in 1985. The dates of introduction of characters reads like a cultural history of sorts: Uncle Sam in 1938, Superman in 1939; Kermit the Frog in 1977; Bugs Bunny in 1989; Clifford the Big Red Dog and Bart Simpson in 1990; Barney the Dinosaur in 1994; Scooby-Doo in 2005; Shrek in 2007; and the Pillsbury Doughboy in 2009.

B


Ballo

on

ph

oto

s: S

hu

tters

tock.c

om

Ballo

on

ph

oto

s: S

hu

tters

tock.c

om


For more on the Parade’s history, see the book, Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade by Robert M. Grippo and the illustrated pop-up book for kids, Macy’s on Parade! by Pamela Pease. For the latest updates on the line-up for the 2012 parade, visit the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade website: social.macys.com/parade2012_kaws/#/games or call the Parade hotline at (212) 494-4495.

BEST SPOTS ON PARADE DAY

Organizers say the best views are to be had on Central Park West between 61st and 72nd Streets. According to the Parade website, (http://social.macys.com/parade2012_kaws/#/home) the best public viewing areas are on a 2.5 mile route on the West side of Central Park West from 70th Street to Columbus Circle and on the East side of Central Park West from 70th to 65th Street. Around Columbus Circle, the West side of the street is your best bet. On Sixth Avenue, the best spots are between 58th and 34th Streets; and on 34th Street you should stay on the South side of the street between Broadway & Seventh Avenue. Places to avoid are Columbus Circle, as balloon teams tend to go more quickly here because of higher winds in this flat area and Herald Square & Sixth Avenue between 34th and 38th Streets, where the national television broadcast causes restricted access. If you plan to be there in person, it’s advisable to arrive early, pick your spot carefully and dress for changing weather. Some people stake out their spots as early as 5AM but 7AM should be a good bet. The Parade starts at 9AM and finishes at noon. Many people bring stools, folding chairs or milk crates for sitting or standing on but Macy’s advises leaving such items at home as they become cumbersome as the crowds fill up the sidewalk. The same is said of strollers, but that’s a tough choice to make with younger kids. Keep in mind that you can easily be outside for four or five hours if you arrive early and stay for the whole parade, so approach it as you would a street party and enjoy an al fresco breakfast while you wait. Being near a restaurant or café is a good idea for bathroom breaks and snacks. Lots of people swear by a spot on the Upper West Side where the Parade starts and “ends” after about 1.5 hours. You’ll have longer to wait if you are closer to Herald Square. The square itself should be avoided since this area gets super-crowded unless, of course, you are one of the lucky few to receive bandstand tickets (which are not on sale to the public). November in New York City can be pretty chilly and temperatures can change from early morning through mid-day, so dressing in layers with warm footwear, gloves and a hat is advisable.

AN AMERICAN TRADITION

The annual Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade started in 1924, which makes it the second oldest Thanksgiving Day parade in the United States, four years younger than the Thanksgiving Day Parade in Philadelphia. What started out as an expression of pride by store employees, many of whom were the children of European immigrants wanting to celebrate the holiday season with festivities like their parents remembered from the old country, has evolved into an American tradition. First it was Macy’s Christmas Parade, then Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Christmas Parade and then simply Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. The tradition of welcoming the arrival of Santa Claus at the end of the Parade remains. Each year, cast members from a number of the latest Broadway shows perform either in the parade, or immediately preceding the parade in front of Macy’s. Since 1957, the famed Radio City Rockettes have been the last of the pre-parade acts to perform. In 1932, the festivities were broadcast on local New York radio stations and the following year, over a million people took to the streets to watch the parade. During the World War II years the parade was suspended because of the need to conserve rubber and helium for the war effort. Until 1951, most Americans listened to the event on their radios. The first network television broadcast was in 1948, on CBS, but the parade really became a part of American culture after it took center stage in the classic 1947 film, Miracle on 34th Street, with Maureen O’Hara, Natalie Wood and Edmund Gwenn as Kris Kringle. The film featured footage of the 1946 festivities. The parade route has changed several times over the years. Originally the route to Herald Square was much longer, six miles from 145th Street in Harlem. In 1945, the route was shortened and stayed pretty much the same until 2008. In 2009, it was moved to Seventh Avenue from Broadway. Today’s two and a half mile route promises to allow for more viewing spots than ever before. U


Mir

acle

on

34

th S

treet:

left

: m

yth

icalm

on

key.b

log

spo

t.co

m,

rig

ht:

jo

hn

km

cew

en

.wo

rdp

ress

.co

m

MACYS_FINAL.indd 6 11/9/12 9:50:26 AM

CALL: (609) 497-0020Visit: www.princetonsymphony.orgCALL: (609) 497-0020Visit: www.princetonsymphony.orgCALL: (609) 497-0020Visit: www.princetonsymphony.org

CALL: (609) 497-0020Visit: www.princetonsymphony.org


free and open to the public artmuseum.princeton.edu

City of GoldTomb and Temple in Ancient Cyprus

through january 20, 2013

Dancing into DreamsMaya Vase Painting of the Ik’ Kingdom

through february 17, 2013 top: Cypriot, late 6th century b.c.: Head from a colossal male statue. Polis Chrysochous, Local Museum of Marion and Arsinoe. Courtesy of the Department of Antiquities, Cyprus center, left to right: Roman, Antonine: Colossal bust of a goddess or personification, ca. 160–190 a.d. Museum purchase, Fowler McCormick, Class of 1921, Fund, in acknowledgment of the dedicated service, to the Advisory Council of the Princeton University Art Museum, of Kathleen Compton Sherrerd, Barry Munitz, Graduate School Class of 1968, Duane E. Wilder, Class of 1951, and Stuart P. Feld, Class of 1957 / Ugo da Carpi, after Parmigianino, Diogenes, ca. 1524–27. Museum purchase, gift of the Friends of the Art Museum in honor of Barbara T. Ross on her retirement / Claude Monet, Water Lilies and Japanese Bridge, 1899. From the Collection of William Church Osborn, Class of 1883, trustee of Princeton University (1914–1951), president of the Metropolitan Museum of Art (1941–1947); given by his family / Baule artist: Kpre Kpre mask, after 1910. Gift of Mr. Charles Biddle, Class of 1947, and Mrs. Biddle / Lewis W. Hine, Adolescent Girl, a Spinner, in a Carolina Cotton Mill, 1908. Anonymous gift / Late Postclassic, Maya: Lidded effigy container in the form of a diving god, ca. a.d. 1500. Museum purchase with funds given by an anonymous foundation / Chinese, Southern Song dynasty, 1127–1279: Guanyin seated in Royal-ease pose, ca. 1250. Museum purchase, Carl Otto von Kienbusch Jr., Memorial Collection / Andy Warhol, Blue Marilyn, 1962. Gift of Alfred H. Barr Jr., Class of 1922, and Mrs. Barr. Photos: Bruce M. White. bottom: Maya: Vase with seated lord with rattle, ca. 725–735. bamw photography

UrbAgenda_103112_final.indd 1 11/7/12 1:52 PMUrban_ad_Temp.indd 1 11/8/12 11:09:00 PM

TICKETS AVAILABLE ONLINE AT TICKETMASTER.COM AND AT ALL TICKETMASTER OUTLETS. TO CHARGE TICKETS BY PHONE, CALL (800) 745-3000.

UrbanAgenda-8.375x10.875.indd 1 11/7/12 2:51 PMUrban_ad_Temp.indd 1 11/8/12 10:53:41 PM

30 HOLIDAY 2012

ART SCENE

URBAN AGENDA New York City

MU

SE

UM

C

AF

ES

C

AF

ES

C

AF

ES

ot so long ago, a meal at a museum meant cafeteria cuisine taken in nondescript surroundings. Patrons in search of a snack, or something more substantial, usually found it in a steamy basement dining hall, served by ladies of a certain age wearing white uniforms and hairnets.

But that was in the twentieth century. Here in the twenty-fi rst, eating, or rather, dining, has become as much a part of the museum experience as viewing the exhibits. Especially in New York City, museum eateries have become destinations in themselves. You don’t have to view the walls of Klimts at the Neue Gallery to indulge in Café Sabarsky’s apple strudel, with a generous dollop of schlag (whipped cream). The Himalayan art at the Rubin Museum of Art is inspiring, but more than one foodie has been known to skip the galleries and head straight to the restaurant Serai to sample fresh baked samosas and dumplings. Serai (the Rubin, 150 West 17th Street) takes its name from the overnight stopovers for caravans along trade routes like the Silk Road, where travelers could eat, drink and purchase or trade goods for their journeys. The same team that started Buddakan and Morimoto, the Starr Group, came up with the concept and the menu for this unique museum restaurant. Chef Ali Loukzada offers Indian wraps, sausage bao bu, and his own take on mac-and-cheese, among numerous other specialties inspired by the Himalayan region. On Wednesday nights when the museum stays open until 7 p.m., Serai has a happy hour with live music and special programs starting at 5 p.m. On Friday nights, the restaurant becomes the K-2 Lounge, with a special Pan-Asian

N

Make an

of Eating{ B Y A N N E L E V I N }

tapas menu and a martini and wine bar. For more information, visit www.rmanyc.org or call (212) 620-5000 ext. 345. Architect Frank Lloyd Wright’s groundbreaking vision for the Guggenheim Museum (1071 Fifth Avenue) was the inspiration for The Wright, which serves lunch and brunch (with special extended hours for the “Picasso Black and White” exhibit October 6-January 21). Taking a visual cue from the sleek, iconic design of the museum’s exterior, the restaurant has clean lines and a colorful installation by British conceptual artist Liam Gillick. All of this is a backdrop for modern American fare that includes prix fi xe offerings as well as a bar menu with regular à la carte items and an imaginative line-up of cocktails. Chef Rodolfo Contreras is planning a special dessert and a Spanish-themed bar menu for the Picasso exhibit. For lighter offerings, there is Café 3, an espresso and snack bar serving sandwiches, pastries, coffee, tea, wine and beer, overlooking Fifth Avenue and Central Park. Visit www.guggenheim.org or call (212) 427-5690. The museum dining room with the most spectacular view is Robert atop the Museum of Arts and Design on Columbus Circle. The eatery won the 2012 Open Table Diners Choice Award for Best Scenic View Restaurant. Patrons lounge on sofas or sit at tables by the windows while working their way through lunch, brunch, cocktails, desserts or dinner. The décor is starkly modern, with sculptural, steel cocktail tables and illuminated pink and orange Lucite light fi xtures that look like mobiles. Chef Leo Forneas creates modern American specialties such as charred octopus, chilled corn soup with avocado and cilantro, and cheesecake with huckleberry compote and lychee foam. Visit www.robertnyc.com or call (212) 299-7730.

MuseumCafesFinal.indd 2 11/8/12 9:49:58 PM

Holiday 2012 URBAN AGENDA New York City 31

Chef Rodolfo Contreras at THE WRIGHT, Located at the Guggenhiem Museum, Fifth Avenue and 88th Street. Photography courtesy of Restaurant Associates. (bottom) Guggenhiem

Museum, Fifth Avenue and 88th Street. Photography courtesy of Shutterstock.com.



View from Robert, atop the Museum of Arts and Design on Columbus Circle. Photography courtesy of Restaurant Associates.

Interior at Robert, atop the Museum of Arts and Design. Photography courtesy of Restaurant Associates.



It is likely that the Morgan family would still recognize thestaidMorganDining Room in theMorgan Library andMuseum(225 Madison Avenue), where they once took their meals. Butthoughthechefforthiscelebratedlunchandbrunchspotissaidto take inspiration fromearly20thcenturymenus, it’sdoubtfulthat financier J.P. Morgan and his family dined on such dishesasyellowfintunatartarewithtarochipsand limeemulsion.Theelegantmansionthathousestheoriginalsectionofthismuseumisonlypartofthestory.Amodernaddition,designedbyarchitectRenzo Piano, is home to themore casual Morgan Café, wherelunch,afternoontea,cocktailsandwine,andaspecialFridaynightmenu, are available. The Morgan frequently offers menu itemsthatmatchthethemesoftheexhibits.ArecentshowonWinstonChurchillwasaccompaniedby“TastesofBritain,”includingEnglishcheesesand“ThreakstonOldPeculierAle.”Visitwww.themorgan.orgorcall(212)685-0008. AreviewofCaffe Storicoin The New YorkerlastspringhelpedputtherestaurantattheNew-YorkHistoricalSocietyMuseum&Library(170CentralParkWest)onthefood-lovers’map.Localspushingstrollersareregulars,alongwithhistorybuffs insearchof refreshmentafterhoursofperusing theart andobjects thattell the story of the city’s history. The StarrGroup, designer ofSerai,alsocameupwiththeconceptforthisItalian-themedcafé,which features small plates, artisanal pasta, andmore than 50labelsonitswinelist.Thehigh,whiteshelvesthatlinethewallsshowcase19thcenturychinafromthemuseum’scollection.Thereis a Sunday evening three-course prix fixe menu at $28, andthe lunchofferingsrangefromfavabeanandwalnutcrostini tognocchiwithblacktrufflefonduta.Visitwww.nyhistory.orgorcall(212)873-3400. The light-filledGarden Court Café at theAsia Society (725ParkAvenue)isairyandtranquil,witharibbed,greenhouseceilingoverfloweringtrees.SipMaoJian,sweetChinesegreenteawithhintsoffruit,togoalongwithaBentoBox,atraditionalJapanese-stylelunchbox,starringchickencurrysaladandjasminerice,ora green apple and Thai curry crab cake, followed perhaps byorangecardamompannacotta.Thecaféisopenonlyfor lunch,butchefMarkCummings’menuisextensivewithobviousAsianinspirations.YetCummingsisn’tafraidtostepoutsidethe(Bento)box.Warmcaramelpecancaketoppedwithhomemadevanillaicecream?Hardlywhatyou’dexpectinanAsian-themedcafé.Asonedinerwasheardtosay,“ThisplaceisEastmeetstheUpperEastSide.”Visitwww.asiasociety.orgorcall(212)288-6400. AvisittoCafe SabarskyonthefirstflooroftheNeueGalerie(1048FifthAvenue) isa tripback in time to the famouscoffeehouses of early 20th century Vienna. The Beaux Arts mansionbuilt forWilliam Starr Miller and now devoted to German andAustrianartservesclassicAustriancuisineinwhatwasoncethedining room.LargewindowswithornatefixturesoverlookFifthAvenueandMuseumMile.Amarblefireplace,lightingfixturesbyJosef Hoffmann, and banquettes upholstered with a 1912 OttoWagner fabric create the atmosphere of the cafés that wereimportantcentersofintellectuallife.RacksofnewspapersinviteonetolingeroverWienerSchnitzel,mintpeasoup,house-madehotchocolateandfamousVienneseSacherTorte.Thecaféisopenforbreakfast,lunchanddinner.Visitwww.neuegalerie.orgorcall(212)628-6200. Hungry museum-goers have their choice of venues at theMuseumofModernArt(11West53rdStreet).Oneofthem,The Modern,evenholdsaMichelinstarandthreestarsfromThe New York Times. Café2andTerrace5areopenonlytomuseumvisitors,

MorganDiningRoomintheMorganLibraryandMuseum(225MadisonAvenue)PhotographycourtesyofRestaurantAssociates.

butanyonecaneatatTheModern,whichhas itsownentrance.The restaurant has two private dining rooms and a bar room,wheretheatmosphereisabitmorecasualthanthemaindiningarea,whichhaswonawardsforitsdesign.ChefGabrielKreuther’smenu includes suchgemsas licorice-poachedsummerflounderandchorizo-crustedcod.ThefareisabitsimpleratCafé2,wherechef Lynn Bound makes handmade pastas, artisanal cheeses,salads,paninis,andsumptuousdesserts.DineinaDanishmodernsetting at Terrace 5, where wines and micro-brewed beers areonhandalongwithseasonalselectionsanddesserts.Visitwww.themodernyc.comorcall(212)708-9400.

GardenCourtCaféatAsiaSocietyMuseum,725ParkAvenue.PhotographybyElsaRuiz.


his is a complicated city to navigate, and while, like many New Yorkers, I pride myself on my intricate knowledge of the subway system, I figured it couldn’t hurt to augment that knowledge. So, first stop: map apps. The best subway-navigation, by far, comes from iTrans, though at $3.99 it’s relatively

expensive for an app (one of only three I’ll recommend that costs anything at all). iTrans presents a standard MTA map. Click on any stop, and you get details of the train schedule. Right now, for instance, I could sprint to 86th and Lexington for a downtown 4 train in three minutes, or amble for the 5 train a few minutes later. The app also offers directions, “adjusted for scheduled service changes,” with step-by-step instructions, written and highlighted on the map. NextTrain gives arrival times for the closest train, offering less information and in a less palatable format than iTrans. As an iPhone user, I’m less familiar with apps for other devices, so I turned to my friend Jesse Friedman, a Product Marketing Manager at Google who used to work with Google Maps. The Android offers Google Maps for Mobile, which “can do just about everything you can do on the desktop,” Jesse told me. It alerts you when your route is disrupted and offers a compass button, which allows you to see the buildings around you in 3D—useful for the disoriented pedestrian. It also offers offline storage, so you can access your route in out-of-service areas, on a road trip, say. The map’s GPS navigation routes you around traffic, which, according to Google’s own statistics, can save an average of two years over a lifetime. There’s also Exit Strategy (the other costly app, also $3.99), which offers subway, bus, and neighborhood maps, plus diagrams of where to stand on the subway platform based on station, subway line, and direction. Taking the N uptown to Times Square? If you want to get out at 42nd Street, get on the first car; for 40th Street, get on the eighth, almost at the back of the train. It’s brilliant and terrible: how the heck am I going to impress out-of-towners now? And finally, for drivers and cyclists, there’s BestParking and BikeThere. Input your location into BestParking and you get a map with on-street info—what’s free, metered, and prohibited—or garages and lots, with clickable bubbles that give pricing and contact information. BikeThere gives you step-by-step biking directions. Beyond the apps that help you map, there are those that integrate mapping with urban attractions. The most overwhelming of these is NYC Way, which has 47 different categories—dining, movies, jobs, airports, cross street finder, green, kids, traffic cameras, safety, Craigslist, events, restrooms, and on and on. Click on one and you get a list of locations nearby. It’s good in theory. I assume it’s meant to be the only app necessary, but in the end gives me the same feeling I get walking into an enormous,

fluorescent department store: “This place is going to eat me alive.” If you have the stamina for that sort of thing, you’re a stronger person than I, and you can probably handle NYC Way. NYC Map is similar, though less aesthetically pleasing: it’s an amateurish map with clickable names of establishments attached to basic information and consumer reviews. After toying with one of those for a while, Citysearch is a relief. There’s a much more manageable 14 categories, including bakeries, attractions, movies, hotels, spa & beauty, shopping, and restaurants, presented in an attractive scroll bar at the top of the screen. Within each, you can filter by distance from your location, by various sub-categories, and, in the case of restaurants, by price. These filters are under a bar called “What do you feel like?” which is mostly comforting. If I’m shopping, do I feel like bookstores or second hand goods? But sometimes it’s inappropriately comical, as under the “Health” category, when you might “feel like” a health clinic, a dentist, a doctor, an emergency medical service, a hospital, or a pharmacy. If you know you’re looking for a restaurant, Immaculate Infatuation is your best bet. Unlike the Zagats app, at $9.99, it’s free; and unlike Yelp or, really, most other apps, it’s curated and offers comprehensive, thoughtful restaurant reviews. You can search by location or by recent addition, or by a number of filter categories, from the practical (BYOB, Big Groups, Late Night Eats) to the humorous (Impressing Out of Towners, Listening to Black Eyed Peas Mash Ups, Celebrity Sightings, Full On Pork Indulgence). For event listings, the Village Voice app is commendable. Click on an attraction and get the Village Voice review. I’m partial to The Scoop, the New York Times’ app (full disclosure: I write for the Times Magazine). Search by nine categories—including the more unusual “Only in N.Y.” and “Day Trips”—and get a list of choices sorted by distance, each paired with a Times review (as in the Village Voice app). Once you’ve done an activity, you can click “done.” This app is just missing the ability to quickly add an event to your own to-do list. Be warned: The Scoop is a gateway app. It recommended that I “Hear Up-and-Coming Musicians” at the Juilliard School, which “provides an astonishing number of performances,” for free. Brilliant. Without a to-do list function, though, I flipped to an app called Stamped—another favorite, which allows you to recommend cultural gems, see others’ recommendations, and, most importantly for the moment, create a to-do list. The Scoop also suggested that I “Explore Central Park—and a Musical Puzzle,” i.e. download another app, created by Bluebrain. I obediently obliged, and headed into Central Park with my new app, headphones in my ears—because Bluebrain’s magical creation pipes in music to correspond with your location. As I entered the park at East 79th Street, a haunting symphony swelled in my ears. For helpful background on park attractions, I also fired

T

I got my first smartphone, an iPhone,

at the beginning of this year. In just

eight months, we’ve become inseparable.

I sleep near my iPhone, he wakes me up

in the morning, and right now, as I type,

he’s a silent buddy dozing next to my

computer. There was only one realm

left to explore: apps. So, recently,

I downloaded as many as I could.

{BY JESSICA GROSS}

NYC,APP-LAND


Sh

utt

ers

tock.c

om

NYC_APPS_FINAL.indd 2 11/8/12 9:52:02 PM

his is a complicated city to navigate, and while, like many New Yorkers, I pride myself on my intricate knowledge of the subway system, I figured it couldn’t hurt to augment that knowledge. So, first stop: map apps. The best subway-navigation, by far, comes from iTrans, though at $3.99 it’s relatively

expensive for an app (one of only three I’ll recommend that costs anything at all). iTrans presents a standard MTA map. Click on any stop, and you get details of the train schedule. Right now, for instance, I could sprint to 86th and Lexington for a downtown 4 train in three minutes, or amble for the 5 train a few minutes later. The app also offers directions, “adjusted for scheduled service changes,” with step-by-step instructions, written and highlighted on the map. NextTrain gives arrival times for the closest train, offering less information and in a less palatable format than iTrans. As an iPhone user, I’m less familiar with apps for other devices, so I turned to my friend Jesse Friedman, a Product Marketing Manager at Google who used to work with Google Maps. The Android offers Google Maps for Mobile, which “can do just about everything you can do on the desktop,” Jesse told me. It alerts you when your route is disrupted and offers a compass button, which allows you to see the buildings around you in 3D—useful for the disoriented pedestrian. It also offers offline storage, so you can access your route in out-of-service areas, on a road trip, say. The map’s GPS navigation routes you around traffic, which, according to Google’s own statistics, can save an average of two years over a lifetime. There’s also Exit Strategy (the other costly app, also $3.99), which offers subway, bus, and neighborhood maps, plus diagrams of where to stand on the subway platform based on station, subway line, and direction. Taking the N uptown to Times Square? If you want to get out at 42nd Street, get on the first car; for 40th Street, get on the eighth, almost at the back of the train. It’s brilliant and terrible: how the heck am I going to impress out-of-towners now? And finally, for drivers and cyclists, there’s BestParking and BikeThere. Input your location into BestParking and you get a map with on-street info—what’s free, metered, and prohibited—or garages and lots, with clickable bubbles that give pricing and contact information. BikeThere gives you step-by-step biking directions. Beyond the apps that help you map, there are those that integrate mapping with urban attractions. The most overwhelming of these is NYC Way, which has 47 different categories—dining, movies, jobs, airports, cross street finder, green, kids, traffic cameras, safety, Craigslist, events, restrooms, and on and on. Click on one and you get a list of locations nearby. It’s good in theory. I assume it’s meant to be the only app necessary, but in the end gives me the same feeling I get walking into an enormous,

fluorescent department store: “This place is going to eat me alive.” If you have the stamina for that sort of thing, you’re a stronger person than I, and you can probably handle NYC Way. NYC Map is similar, though less aesthetically pleasing: it’s an amateurish map with clickable names of establishments attached to basic information and consumer reviews. After toying with one of those for a while, Citysearch is a relief. There’s a much more manageable 14 categories, including bakeries, attractions, movies, hotels, spa & beauty, shopping, and restaurants, presented in an attractive scroll bar at the top of the screen. Within each, you can filter by distance from your location, by various sub-categories, and, in the case of restaurants, by price. These filters are under a bar called “What do you feel like?” which is mostly comforting. If I’m shopping, do I feel like bookstores or second hand goods? But sometimes it’s inappropriately comical, as under the “Health” category, when you might “feel like” a health clinic, a dentist, a doctor, an emergency medical service, a hospital, or a pharmacy. If you know you’re looking for a restaurant, Immaculate Infatuation is your best bet. Unlike the Zagats app, at $9.99, it’s free; and unlike Yelp or, really, most other apps, it’s curated and offers comprehensive, thoughtful restaurant reviews. You can search by location or by recent addition, or by a number of filter categories, from the practical (BYOB, Big Groups, Late Night Eats) to the humorous (Impressing Out of Towners, Listening to Black Eyed Peas Mash Ups, Celebrity Sightings, Full On Pork Indulgence). For event listings, the Village Voice app is commendable. Click on an attraction and get the Village Voice review. I’m partial to The Scoop, the New York Times’ app (full disclosure: I write for the Times Magazine). Search by nine categories—including the more unusual “Only in N.Y.” and “Day Trips”—and get a list of choices sorted by distance, each paired with a Times review (as in the Village Voice app). Once you’ve done an activity, you can click “done.” This app is just missing the ability to quickly add an event to your own to-do list. Be warned: The Scoop is a gateway app. It recommended that I “Hear Up-and-Coming Musicians” at the Juilliard School, which “provides an astonishing number of performances,” for free. Brilliant. Without a to-do list function, though, I flipped to an app called Stamped—another favorite, which allows you to recommend cultural gems, see others’ recommendations, and, most importantly for the moment, create a to-do list. The Scoop also suggested that I “Explore Central Park—and a Musical Puzzle,” i.e. download another app, created by Bluebrain. I obediently obliged, and headed into Central Park with my new app, headphones in my ears—because Bluebrain’s magical creation pipes in music to correspond with your location. As I entered the park at East 79th Street, a haunting symphony swelled in my ears. For helpful background on park attractions, I also fired

T

I got my first smartphone, an iPhone,

at the beginning of this year. In just

eight months, we’ve become inseparable.

I sleep near my iPhone, he wakes me up

in the morning, and right now, as I type,

he’s a silent buddy dozing next to my

computer. There was only one realm

left to explore: apps. So, recently,

I downloaded as many as I could.

{BY JESSICA GROSS}

NYC,APP-LAND


Sh

utt

ers

tock.c

om


up Central Park NYC Lite. Did you know that Turtle Pond “was designed so that at no position can a viewer take in all its perimeter”? I continued across the park, flipping between Bluebrain (birds chirping, wind whooshing, bees buzzing) and Central Park NYC Lite, until I’d made my way to the west side, at which point I hopped on a bus and heard the Bluebrain soundtracks on hyperspeed and in reverse (much less enjoyable). The whole enterprise was frazzling, as Bluebrain only operates when it’s open. Probably, you should not multi-task this one. Which brings us to museum apps. I tried out Explorer, the American Museum of Natural History’s offering. Its maps are incredibly useful: click on an exhibit and get step-by-step directions through the museum based on your location (and did you know the museum has free WiFi?). The tours, however, are distracting. The app has only short snippets of text about various exhibits—no audio—which in essence means you’re staring down at your phone instead of reading the wall text and actually interacting with the museum. NYPL Mobile though, is a different story. Looking for a book? This app tells you the closest branch library where it’s available. Simple, helpful, and smart. Night Light NYC is amusing: no matter where you are, you can see a graphic of the Empire State Building’s lit peak (you can even rotate the building with your finger), with an explanation of what the colors signify. Near the end of July, this

charmingly impish app told me, “I’m looking to see what the Empire State Building is up to…”—but, assessing the state of the internet in my apartment: “I have no idea what the Empire State Building is up to.” Later that day, it informed me that the green, blue, and white lights were “in honor of the Major League Soccer All-Stars versus Manchester United Game.” Who knew? And then there are the apps that mean business. Use 311 to report an infrastructural problem or request assistance for a homeless person. With Report a Taxi, you can enter a taxi medallion number (or take a photo) and cite your grievance—anything from a “reckless or unsafe” driver to “broken or missing equipment” to “rude service.” Brooklyn residents may be particularly delighted by the “refused to pick up a passenger” option. One app I have no personal experience using: SitOrSquat, a Charmin app that supposedly tells you where to find the nearest restroom. Before I could poke around, SitOrSquat requested that I agree to let the app “transfer personal data about you or your device to Facebook without action by you.” For obvious reasons, I declined. SitOrSquat notwithstanding, it is clear that, new apps in hand, I likely will be unable to disconnect from my smartphone, ever. But if these apps lead me to free Juilliard concerts, immersive nature/musical experiences, and the Philip Roth novel I’m searching for at the NYPL, I’m okay with it. U


Sh

utt

ers

tock.c

om


URBAN AGENDA New York City 37Holiday 2012

Do you know what time it is? Ask your biological clock!

800-IVFNJ-44 / WWW.IVFNJ.comNew York City . Somerset . Short Hills . Hamilton . Freehold

Your biological clock ticks independently from your chronological

age and it is the most important factor in determining a woman’s

ability to have a child. The time on this clock can be checked by

a simple blood test and a pelvic ultrasound. IVFNJ accepts most

major insurance plans and for those without insurance a

discount is available.

Call us now to schedule an appointment!

Your home is more than a roof over your head. It’s avaluable asset that shelters you and your valuedpossessions. As your insurance advisor, we know youneed an insurance company that understands the wayyou live. With more than 125 years of experience, a well-earned reputation for prompt and fair claim settlements,and special expertise in protecting fine homes and theircontents, we know Chubb is as different from otherinsurance companies as a home is from a house. To seehow we can create a personal insurance program fromChubb to meet your sophisticated needs, please call us.

We understand the difference betweeninsuring a house and a home.

930 Washington StreetHoboken, NJ 07030

201-659-2403www.mullerinsurance.com

Chubb refers to the insurers of the Chubb Group of Insurance Companies. Chubb Personal Insurance (CPI) is thepersonal lines property and casualty strategic business unit of Chubb & Son, a division of Federal Insurance Company,

as manager and/or agent for the insurers of the Chubb Group of Insurance Companies. This literature is descriptiveonly. Not available in all states. Actual coverage is subject to the language of the policies as issued. Chubb, Box 1615,

Warren, NJ 07061-1615. ©2010 Chubb & Son, a division of Federal Insurance Company. www.chubb.com/personal

Financial Strength and Exceptional Claim Service Homeowners | Auto | Yacht | Jewelry | Antiques | Collector Car

Urban_ad_Temp.indd 3 11/9/12 10:27:34 AM


Pied-a-Terre_FINAL.indd 2 11/8/12 10:02:35 PM


n 2003, my husband and I, together with a likeminded couple bought what the French so aptly call a pied-à-terre on Manhattan’s Upper

West Side. The apartment realizes our dream for a place in the city. Those three French words, pied-à-terre, fall short when literally translated—foot on the ground—in conjuring up one of the most desired visions of the good life: a second very different small home in a vibrant city that is, from time to time, an alternative to the realities of suburban life, a place that is compact not sprawling, spare but comfortable, within walking distance of diverse foods and entertainments, and a quiet retreat for down time.

I

A PLACE IN THE CITY:

The Allure of the Pied-à-Terre

{ b y I n g r I d W. r e e d }

Ph

oto

gra

ph

y c

ou

rtesy

of

Sh

utt

ers

tock.c

om

Pied-a-Terre_FINAL.indd 3 11/9/12 9:53:52 AM


uch is the ideal. But what moves suburbanites to live out the dream of a pied-à-terre? Is it continually looking at your watch during the fourth act of a favorite opera in order to check the late train departures and leave before the curtain calls? Or could it be the thought of the ride home at night on a train with lights as bright as an operating room? Or slowly driving through the

maze at the Lincoln Tunnel when all you want is a lovely night cap before slipping into bed? Perhaps it’s having decided that two museums have special exhibitions too unique to miss but you need a place to put up your feet and have a cup of tea between the two. When it dawns that life is too short and too precious not to have “a place” in the city, here are some things to think about.

The LocaTion

In what part of the city will you be content because you like the surroundings and it’s easy to get to the things you like to do? Most people in New York City think of themselves as either East Siders, West Siders or Villagers. A preference for general location should be tested on other related issues. Do you want a quiet street or an active one? How will you come in and out of the city and what role should that play in your choice? You can’t beat the West Side for direct subway access to Penn Station, but if you drive, do you want a garage nearby? How far are you willing to go to buy food or to eat out? If you’ll be traveling into the city at a late hour, do you want a well-lit 24/7 neighborhood? Do you want to walk to entertainment or do you readily jump in a cab, in which case being close to a major avenue makes sense.

Ph

oto

gra

ph

y c

ou

rtesy

of

Sh

utt

ers

tock.c

om

S



The Search

Of course you will want to “Google” apartments, read adsand talkwith experienced friends. Doing research can be fun,informativeandagreatwaytodetermineyour“must-haves.”Toactuallyacquireaplace,you’llprobablyfinditefficienttousearealestateagent.Interviewseveralandmakeadatetolookoverat least five places that meet your needs: location, size, price,andotheritems,suchasalaundryonthesamefloor,closetlargeenoughforsomestorage,separatekitchenornot,etc.Don’ttireyourselfoutlooking,butalsodon’tbuysomethingyouwon’twanttocuddleupinduringthewinterorescapetoasacoolspotinthesummer.

The coST

Buying a pied-à-terre is a very personal decision, one thatyouwouldprobablynotconsider if itdidn’tfityourbudget fornon-essentialspending.ThesolidperformanceofNewYorkCityreal estatemakes it possible to see the purchase as a sensibleinvestment.Butaswithanyrealestate—ahouseattheshore,acottageinthemountains,oryourownhome—expensesgobeyondtheinitialpurchasepriceandmortgage.Increasesinmaintenancefeesandspecialassessmentshouldbeanticipatedaswellasotherexpenses,suchasfurnishings,cableandinternetfees,insurance,tips for staffatholiday timesand for special favors.Besure toconsiderwhetheryouwillbecomfortablewithextraspendingontransportationtoandfromhome,morefrequentdiningoutandtheatreperformances. Ofcourse,there isalwaysthepossibilityof enjoying more free entertainment, exploring marvelous cityparks,excellenttake-outmeals,andgettingyourmoney’sworthonmuseummemberships.

The aparTmenT

A pied-à-terre is usually thought of as an intimate space.Havingmorethanonebedroommaymeanyouareopentoguestsand/orwillbetemptedtouseasecondbedroomasanoffice.Nomatterthesizeorpurposeofyourplace,inNewYorkCity,youwillbeconfrontedwithachoiceofa“coop”(pronouncedco-op)or“condo.” Very simply, here’s thedifference. In a cooperativebuilding,purchasinganapartmentmeansbecomingapartownerof theentirebuilding,holdingsharesbasedonthesizeoftheapartment.Themaintenance fee includes thecostsof running thebuildingandrealestatetaxes.Acoopboardwillreviewyourapplicationtodeterminehowwellitmeetstheirstandards.Commonloreisthatapplications from potentialpied-à-terre owners are not viewedfavorably.Thisisapity,sincecoopsareusuallypricedlessthancomparableapartmentsincondominiums. Althoughpricier,acondoisamoreflexibleoption.Purchasingaunitinacondominiumissimilartobuyinganykindofrealestate.Youpurchaseaspecificunit,holdamortgageifyoulike,haveadeedandpayrealestatetaxes.Thebuilding’sboard,electedbytheapartmentowners,setsthemaintenancefee,supervisesthemaintenancestaff,anddeterminesrulesforlivinginthebuilding.Acondopermitssub-letsandpied-à-terrearrangements.InNewYorkCity,coopsstillpredominate,butnewerbuildingsaremostlycondos. Thechoiceofabuildingwithorwithoutadoormanisanotherconsideration.Adoormanbuildingcanbe24/7withaconciergedeskorpartlystaffed.Adoormanprovidessecurity,butforthepied-à-terre owner, thestaffedbuildingprovidesusefulservicessuchaskeepingasparesetofkeys,assistancewithsmallrepairsorglitches,acceptingdeliveries,etc.Allapartmentbuildings,evenafour-unitbrownstone,willhavestafforsomekindofmanagerandrules,soit’simportanttocheckouthowabuilding“works.”

Pied-a-Terre_FINAL.indd 5 11/8/12 10:03:59 PM


Being Organized

Totrulytakeadvantageofyourplaceinthecity,makesureit’seasytomovebetweenyourregularhomeandyourpied à terre. Keep a fewpieces ofNewYorkCity clothes in your apartment(black is stillde rigeur).Have a special bag for electronics andotheressentialsthatoccurtoyouwhenathome.Extraumbrellasandgloves are agoodbet. And remember to take alongcity-related information mailed to your home, such as the MOMAcalendar.KeepingaZagatguideinbothplacesmakesrestaurantreservationsabreezefromeitherlocation.

alternatively…

Beforeyourushtobuy,whynotconsiderrentingaplaceorusing a hotel as a base for exploring the city. If these optionsappeal, think of them as having the character of your ownpied-à-terre. Forahotel,findonethatyouwanttoreturntosothere is a comfortable predictability in knowing the staff andaccommodations—request the same room so it feels like youbelong.As for renting, since a short time commitmentwill feelmorelikeavacationthanadeparturefromroutine,optforayearratherthanamonthsothatyouexperienceachangeofpaceandthespontaneityofgoingwhenthespiritmovesyou.That,afterallisthecharmofhavingaplaceinthecity.

PhotographycourtesyofShutterstock.com


www.glorianilson.com

© Gloria Nilson, REALTORS®, Real Living® An independently owned and operated firm.

Princeton609-921-2600

Princeton Junction609-452-2188

Hopewell Crossing609-737-9100

South Brunswick732-398-2600

Robbinsville 09-259-2711

Monroe Township 609-395-6600

My REALTOR®?

Gloria Nilson, Real Living® of course.

Princeton Township, NJCompletely renovated 4 bedrooms, 3 and 1 half baths, garage, full finished basement with full bath, formal and family living rooms. Princeton Office, 609-921-2600. $998,000

RUMSON, NJSpecial Rumson Estate Property with guest house and pool on a private lane! Magnificient 3.77 acre property for those seeking privacy and tranquility. Rumson Office, 732-530-2800. $3,475,000

Skillman, NJStunning custom-built 5 bedroom, 4.1 bath home near Bedens Brook CC. Offering the finest in finishes and an open, breezy floor plan. Princeton Office, 609-921-2600. $ 1,250,000

RUMSON, NJSet on 3+ park-like acres, this recently built shore Colonial has a perfect flow combining traditional architecture with a contemporary flair. Rumson Office, 732-530-2800. $3,425,000


HOLIDAY TOURING

Best DressedChristmas Trees...By Taylor Smith. Illustrations by Ruth Strohl-Palmer

Best Dressed

By the time the fi rst snowfl akes descend upon the pavement, New York City is aglow in Christmas trees and holiday lights. It seems that no matter what neighborhood you fi nd yourself in, you’re sure to be impressed by the festive evergreens that mark the holiday season. Check out these well-known and lesser-known Christmas trees for a show stopping spectacle of lights.

The American Museum of Natural History TreeThis striking tree lights up the Museum’s permanent collection. This year’s theme is “discovery” and will feature origami designs of all kinds. While you’re there, take the kids on a tour of the “Creatures of Light” exhibit, dogsleds, rockets, dinosaur bones, and more. The Museum’s tree will be on view from Monday, November 19 through Thursday, January 6.Where: Central Park West at 79th St. 212.769.5100

Broadway Holiday TreeIt takes all the stars of Broadway to light-up this theater-themed tree on Monday, November 26.Where: Duffy Square at Broadway and 46th St.

Cathedral of St. John the Divine Peace TreeWhy not commemorate the season of light with a stroll through the Cathedral to see the giant Peace Tree? Every year, the Cathedral decorates the tree with nearly 1000 paper cranes and various symbols of peace. Call 212.316.7540for dates and times. Where: 1046 Amsterdam Ave.

Chorus Tree at South Street SeaportThis singing Christmas tree stands over 50 ft. tall and features carolers performing on most weekends between Friday, November 23 and Tuesday, January 1.Where: South St. and Fulton St. 212.SEA.PORT

Metropolitan Museum of Art Christmas TreeA collection of 18th century Neapolitan angels and cherubs fi ll this Christmas tree’s boughs. Also, look for the nativity scene made of realistic creche fi gures located at the tree’s base in the Museum’s Medieval Sculpture Hall. Special lighting ceremonies will take place every Friday and Saturday at 7 p.m. after Thanksgiving.Where: 1000 5th Ave. at 82nd St. 212.535.7710

Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree & Ice Skating RinkEvery year, on the fi rst Wednesday after Thanksgiving, the world’s most famous Christmas tree transforms into an awe-inspiring mountain of branches covered in more than 30,000 lights and 5 miles of wire. While you’re there, lace-up your skates and twirl away at the Ice Skating Rink at Rockefeller Center. Here you’ll fi nd native New Yorkers and visitors alike skating against a unique urban backdrop. And with room for only 150 skaters at a time, it is a surprisingly intimate experience. Never ice skated before? Be sure to book a private lesson and you’ll be jumping a toe loop in no time.Where: From 47th to 51st St. between 5th and 6th Ave. 212.332.7654

New York Botanical Garden Holiday Tree Enjoy the peace of nature at this early lighting as you and your family take in the winter wonderland of the New York Botanical Garden. After the conifer gets lit on Wednesday, November 23, exercise you caroling skills with group performances by the Westchester Chordsmen.

Where: The Bronx River Parkway and Fordham Rd. 718.817.8700

Park Avenue Trees After the fi rst Sunday in December, anyone walking along the Upper East Side should make a point of viewing the 2.5 mile long stretch of Christmas trees that line Park Avenue.Where: Park Ave. from 97th St. to 48th St.

Lincoln Center Holiday Tree The festivities begin in early December with a tree lighting in Dante Park followed by a block party featuring performances by the Big Apple Circus and food from local restaurants.Where: Broadway and 63rd St. 212.875.5108

Winter Garden at the World Financial CenterAn hour-long version of New York Theatre Ballet’s “The Nutcracker” begins with a light show, during which the glass atrium of the World Financial Center is illuminated with 100,000 twinkling bulbs (will take place after Thanksgiving).Where: World Financial Center, 250 Vesey St. 212.417.7000


HolidayMarkets.indd 2 11/9/12 10:01:33 AM

HOLIDAY MARKETS

Creative Gift-Giving...By Taylor Smith. Illustrations by Ruth Strohl-Palmer

HOLIDAY MARKETS

Shop creatively at a selection of festive holiday markets thatoffer up a great opportunity to see a wide variety of gift options (even if they’re not on your family’s shopping list). These markets will have you lingering throughout the afternoon.

Bryant Park’s Fete de NoelNew York’s own Fete de Noel echoes the French tradition of outdoor shopping, eating, and entertainment. Surrounding the pond at Bryant Park, the Holiday Shops at Bryant Park are known for their high quality handmade goods. Where: Situated behind the New York Public Library in mid-town Manhattan, between 40th and 42nd St. & 5th and 6th Ave.

For more information, visit www.bryantpark.org.Dates: November through Saturday, January 26

Christmas in Little ItalyOn any given day, the Christmas Wonderland of Little Italy will feature parades, religious processions, colorful fl oats, and marching bands. Take in the numerous street vendors selling artisanal food, hot cider, ornaments, and more.Where: At the Piazza Natale on the corner of W. Date & India St. For more information, visit www.littleitalynyc.com.Dates: Throughout the month of December.

Union Square Holiday MarketOne of New York City’s most popular holiday markets, the shopping at Union Square ranks high on most New Yorkers list as you can fi nd a little bit of everything. Expect to see a good selection of handcrafted jewelry, fi ne art and toys.Where: East 14th St. and Union Square West. For more information, visit www.unionsquarenyc.org.Dates: Friday, November 16 through Monday, December 24

Grand Central Holiday FairThe Grand Central Holiday Fair has one distinct advantage over all the others—it’s housed inside of the Grand Central Terminal, making it a safe choice even if the weather outside is frightful.Where: Grand Central Terminal, 87 East and 42nd St. For more information, visit www.grandcentralterminal.comDates: November through Monday, December 24

Holiday Market at Columbus CircleLocated at the southwest corner of Central Park at Columbus Circle, the Holiday Market at Columbus Circle features 120 vendors. Be sure to stop by after a winter stroll through Central Park.Where: 10 Columbus Circle. For more information, visit www.urbanspacenyc.comDates: Wednesday, November 28 through Monday, December 24

The Holiday Gift Shops at St. Bartholomew’s 2012 marks the 9th year for the Holiday Gift Shops at St. Bart’s, now a New York City tradition. Housed inside St. Bartholomew’s Church, these shops have more of a traditional fl ea market fl air than many other holiday markets.Where: St. Bartholomew’s Church, 109 East 50th St. at Park Ave. For more information, visit www.stbarts.orgDates: Thursday, November 15 through Monday, December 24



ART SCENE

Celebrate Hanukkah in style in New York City. Manhattan is celebrating the eight-day Festival of Lights with a full line-up of events and activities. We’ve rounded up 8 of our favorite Hanukkah fetes for families. Expect plenty of latkes, singing, dancing, and driedels.

Lighting of the World’s Largest Hanukkah MenorahEverything is bigger in New York City including this 32 foot tall, two-ton candelabra. The nightly lighting ceremonies will be accompanied by folk dancing and sufganiyot (holiday jelly doughnuts). The menorah lighting will take place on each night of Hanukkah, from Saturday, December 8 through Sunday, December 17. Where: Grand Army Plaza, 5th Ave. at 59th St. near Central Park (718) 287-3400

Hanukkah Lights at the 92nd Street YEach night during Hannukah, you can view the menorah lighting in the main lobby at the 92nd Street Y, dance and sing with the 92nd Street Y School of Dance and Music, then end the evening with chocolate Hannukah gelt. The menorah lighting will take place on each night of Hanukkah, from Saturday, December 8 through Sunday, December 17.Where: 92nd Street Y, Lexington Ave. at 92nd St. Visit www.92y.org for more information.

Hanukkah Concert at Town & Village SynagogueCelebrate Hannukah music at the annual Cantor Louis Moss Memorial Concert, featuring Cantor Shayna Postman, the Town & Village Synagogue Choir, and other special musical guests. The concert will include a candle lighting and a sing-a-long.

HOLIDAY CELEBRATING

Hanukkah in Style...By Taylor Smith. Illustrations by Ruth Strohl-Palmer

Where: Town & Village Synagogue, 334 East 14th St. Town & Village Synagogue will host Hanukkah-related events all December-long. Visit www.tandv.org for more information.

Sephardic Music FestivalThe Sephardic Music Festival is back in town! Artists including Yair Dalal, Electro Morocco, Michael Cohen, Diwon, Pharaoh’s Daughter, and many others. Venues include restaurants and synagogues all over Manhattan. This year’s festival will take place from December 8 through 15. For a comprehensive listing of this year’s artists and performance times, visit www.sephardicmusicfestival.com/nyWhere: Multiple venues.

Klezmer for Kids Family ConcertSing and dance to the sounds of the Klezmerfest band, learn some Yiddish, and participate in an interactive recreation of a shtetl wedding. This celebration of klezmer music will take place throughout the month of December.Where: The Museum at Eldridge St., 12 Eldridge St. between Canal and Division Streets. To listen to musical clips from last year’s concerts, visit www.yany.org.

Hannukah Family DayHead to the Jewish Museum for an afternoon of Hanukkah-themed fun. Be sure to check-out the annual display of menorahs curated by Maurice Sendak, then listen to some live bands croon “The Dreidel Song” and “S’vivon.” The Sendak exhibit will be on view from December 2 through January 29.Where: The Jewish Museum, 1109 5th Ave. at 92nd St. For even more Family Day activities, visit www.thejewishmuseum.org.

The Poppy Seed Players Present Latkes and ApplesauceThe Poppy Seed Players troupe revives its annual holiday musical revue featuring short seasonal skits, including a Hanukkah-themed parody of A Christmas

Carol and American Idol. The performance will take place on December 9.Where: Merkin Concert Hall at the Goodman House, 129 West 67th St. Visit www.kaufman-center.org for ticket information.

Hannukah Lobby CelebrationEach winter, the lobby of the JCC (Jewish Community Center) in Manhattan is transformed into Hannukah central. Families can play driedel, do arts & crafts, decorate cookies, enjoy musical performances, and listen to a reading of The Runaway Latkes by Leslie Kimmelman. Festivities will take place throughout the month of December.Where: The JCC in Manhattan, 334 Amsterdam Ave. Visit www.jccmanhattan.org for further details.




POUR HOMME

Baume & Mercier Capeland 10062, $4350. 800.Mercier.IV

Tag Heuer SLR Laptimer Chronograph, price upon request. 866.260.0460.

VPatek Philippe 5130/1G-010 White Gold - Men Complications, price upon request. www.patek.com VI

Audemars Piguet Tradition Perpetual Calendar, priceupon request. 212.688.6644.

VII

Phillip Stein Small Ceramic, $1775. Neiman Marcus. 877.777.5321.I

Tourneau TNY Series 40 Chrono Automatic, $6400. 212.758.5830.II

Panerai Tuttonero Luminor, price upon request. (212) 223-1562.III


Shopping_Watches.indd 2 11/9/12 10:11:52 AM

POUR FEMME

Portolano Opera Length Leather Gloves, $395. Neiman Marcus. 201.291.1920.

Roberto Coin Enamel & 18K Gold Ring, $1100. Saks Fifth Avenue. 212.753.4000.

Portolano Opera Length Opera Length Leather Gloves, $395. Neiman Leather Gloves, $395. Neiman Marcus. 201.291.1920.Marcus. 201.291.1920.

Yves Salomon Exclusive Shawl Collar Fur Vest, $1595. Intermix. 212.249.7858.

Van Cleef & Arpels Vintage Alhambra bracelet, 5 motifs, $3700. 212.896.9284

Creed Jardin D’Amalfi Perfume, $640. 212.439.7777.

Givenchy Antigona Envelope Clutch, $1280. Barneys New York. 212.826.8900.

Hearts On Fire Beloved Stud Earrings, $2450. Heartsonfi re.com

Tom Ford Padlock Ankle-Strap Pump, $1100. Bergdorf Goodman. 888.774.2424.


Shopping_Watches.indd 3 11/9/12 10:16:18 AM

URBAN BOOKS/MOVIES

Key Lime Pie. Whenever I make it, I think of Nora Ephron. It’s her recipe, you see. Ephron included it in Heartburn, the book she wrote after the break-up of her second marriage. A friend gave me a copy when my second husband “fell in love” with one of his twenty-something graduate students. As my marriage crumbled, I felt a constant pain in my chest, as though a piece of me was smouldering. Heartburn? Nora knew better.

KEY LIME PIE WITH THE

“QUEENOF QUIPS”



No

ra E

ph

ron

, I F

eel B

ad

Ab

ou

t M

y N

eck A

nd

Oth

er

Th

ou

gh

ts O

n B

ein

g A

Wo

man

.

NoraEphron_UA_FINAL.indd 2 11/8/12 10:18:44 PM

URBAN BOOKS/MOVIES

Key Lime Pie. Whenever I make it, I think of Nora Ephron. It’s her recipe, you see. Ephron included it in Heartburn, the book she wrote after the break-up of her second marriage. A friend gave me a copy when my second husband “fell in love” with one of his twenty-something graduate students. As my marriage crumbled, I felt a constant pain in my chest, as though a piece of me was smouldering. Heartburn? Nora knew better.

KEY LIME PIE WITH THE

“QUEENOF QUIPS”



No

ra E

ph

ron

, I F

eel B

ad

Ab

ou

t M

y N

eck A

nd

Oth

er

Th

ou

gh

ts O

n B

ein

g A

Wo

man

.


U

eading the book introduced me to the writer who was a big sister to a whole generation of women; an advance scout, warning of what lay ahead. Wherever life took you, marriage, motherhood, divorce, menopause, and ultimately aging, Ephron had been there. What’s more, she could look back and laugh. Ephron’s life was her copy and while her personal

narratives were her own, they resonated with her readers. She wrote candidly about her failed relationships and difficult childhood (by the time she was 15 her mother was drinking a bottle of Scotch a night and her father had a similar problem). Her subjects were quotidian—the insipidness of egg-white omelets, her apartment in the historic Apthorp Building on the Upper West Side, Teflon pans, even neck wrinkles. “There are chicken necks. There are turkey gobbler necks. There are elephant necks,” she wrote in the title essay from her 2006 collection I Feel Bad About My Neck. “There are necks with wattles and necks with creases that are on the verge of becoming wattles. ...According to my dermatologist, the neck starts to go at 43 and that’s that.” When Ephron held up a mirror, millions of American women saw themselves. One could imagine bumping into her in Zabar’s. She’d be the perfect dinner guest. Ephron knew food. She sprinkled recipes throughout her writings. Heartburn is studded with them: food as metaphor for feeling. “Nora understood that nothing talked more loudly, or more eloquently, than food,” wrote restaurant critic Frank Bruni in a June 27 Diner’s Journal tribute. No matter how soon Bruni got to a new city restaurant, Nora had already been there. “Nora was a foodie not only before the word became so tiresome and tedious but before it even existed,” he said. “Nora was a foodie in the best way: driven not by snobbery but by the joy of discovery and eager not to one-up you with her latest bliss, but to share it with you, guide you toward it.” With Director Mike Nichols, Ephron stirred Meryl Streep, Jack Nicholson, Stockard Channing and Jeff Daniels, together with a dash of Carly Simon, for Heartburn, the movie. Streep stars as the real life Nora (heavily pregnant with her second child and juggling motherhood in Washington with a writing career in New York City). Nicholson stars as her philandering husband, Washington Post reporter Carl Bernstein, whose character in the book is described as “capable of having sex with a Venetian blind.” Bernstein along with fellow Post reporter Bob Woodward, (he famously exposed the Watergate scandal that brought down President Richard Nixon) threatened to sue, but wisely thought better of it.

In preparing this piece, I enjoyed my own Nora-Fest, immersing myself in her writings and films. I laughed and I cried. Sometimes I laughed till I cried. In Heartburn, the movie, I spotted Kevin Spacey in an early role as the subway mugger who robs Nora’s character and her entire therapy group. In the last scene, Streep smooshes Key Lime Pie in Nicholson’s face. “The key lime pie is very simple to make,” wrote Ephron, oh so matter-of-factly. “First you line a nine-inch pie plate with a graham cracker crust. Then beat six egg yolks. Add one cup lime juice (even bottled lime juice will do), two fourteen-ounce cans sweetened condensed milk, and one tablespoon grated lime rind. Pour into the pie shell and freeze. Remove from freezer and spread with whipped cream. Let sit five minutes before serving.” Perfect for eight friends or one cheating husband. To be on the safe side, since the yolks are uncooked, it’s best to use pasteurized eggs (a piece of advice at which, I’d bet, Nora would have scoffed). Ephron’s humor was often self-deprecating. Of her time as a White House intern in the summer of 1961, she joked that she was probably the only intern that John F. Kennedy didn’t make a pass at. If there’s such a thing as New Yorkitude, Ephron had it. Actresses like Meg Ryan, Meryl Streep and Diane Keaton loved working with her. Ephron wrote her first screenplay, with Alice Arlen, for the 1983 movie Silkwood. Streep starred as Karen Silkwood the anti-nuclear activist who died suspiciously while investigating practices at the plutonium plant where she’d been employed. Ephron moved to directing with the 1992 comedy This Is My Life, which she co-wrote with her sister Delia Ephron. The romantic comedy Sleepless in Seattle followed a year later, with Tom Hanks and Meg Ryan. Hanks and Ryan are separated for most of the film and meet at the end on Valentine’s Day atop the Empire State Building, just as Cary Grant and Deborah Kerr had done in the sentimental 1957 An Affair to Remember. Ephron acknowledges the reference. Ryan is shown watching the old movie on television. Hanks and Ryan got together again in Ephron’s You’ve Got Mail, which, in addition to being a romance, is a love letter to Manhattan. Like her predecessor Frank Capra (It Happened One Night, 1934; It’s a Wonderful Life, 1946), Ephron’s comedies have satisfyingly happy endings. Like her contemporary Nancy Meyers (It’s Complicated, 2009) Ephron deftly handles modern relationships. And as the consummate New Yorker, she shares Woody Allen’s love for the city, romanticizing Central Park with

scenes of skaters on the pond, children sledding, and the Rockefeller Center tree as a counterpoint to Billy Crystal and Meg Ryan’s dawning realization of love in the 1989 film, When Harry Met Sally… Unlike Allen, however, there was nothing self-absorbed about Ephron. She had none of his pretentions to high art. Ephron received one of her three Oscar nominations for the When Harry Met Sally… screenplay (the others were for Silkwood and Sleepless in Seattle). The film includes what is probably Ephron’s most famous line. Meg Ryan’s simulation of orgasmic ecstasy while seated in a diner across from Billy Crystal has become a classic movie moment. Ryan’s oohs, aahs and table-pounding climax are hilarious. The line that follows, “I’ll have what’s she’s having,” delivered dead pan by an elderly woman patron (played, incidentally, by Director Rob Reiner’s mother Estelle Reiner) caps it all. The last movie Ephron directed, Julie & Julia, starring Meryl Streep as Julia Child, drew on her passion for food. “Wait until you see the butter,” Bruni recalled her telling him while the film was in production: “She was talking about one of her favorite shots, of butter melting and sizzling in a pan, and she had taken exquisite pains to make sure it was just so, to make sure that anyone with any sort of appetite at all would see it and feel his mouth water, his stomach rumble.” Born in 1941 on the Upper West Side, Ephron was the eldest of four daughters, all of whom became writers. When she was four, her parents, Henry Ephron and Phoebe Wolkind, moved to Los Angeles to work as Hollywood screenwriters. They wrote, among other films, Carousel and There’s No Business Like Show Business. Although she lived among Hollywood royalty, Ephron always thought of New York City as her real home and never forgave her parents for the move. After graduating from Wellesley in 1962, she headed straight back to New York. Her first job was as a mail girl and fact checker at Newsweek. Soon she was contributing to The New York Post, covering events like the arrival of The Beatles. By the late 1960s, she had built a reputation for candidly funny personal essays and incisive profiles for Esquire and New York magazines and was a regular contributor to The New York Times. To readers like me, Ephron’s life seemed an open book. One thing she kept private, however, was the gravity of her illness. Her death in June came as a shock. It turned out that she’d been diagnosed with leukemia in 2006. Only a few close family members and friends knew.

R

On August 26, Ginia Bellafante, host of The New York Times’s Big City Book Club (http://cityroom.blogs.nytimes.com /category/big-city-book-club/) celebrated Ephron by reading her 1960s and ’70s articles from Rolling Stone, New York and The New Yorker. Comparing Ephron to Joan Didion, Bellafante wrote: “Ms. Ephron and Ms. Didion were arguably the two most acclaimed female journalists of the late midcentury, their sensibilities perfectly opposed. One wonders what they made of each other at the parties, in New York and Los Angeles, where they inevitably came into contact, Ms. Didion’s neurasthenia up against Ms. Ephron’s strudel-loving bonhomie.” Ephron’s talent drew comparisons to Dorothy Parker. Writing in ArtsBeat magazine, John Williams called her “The Queen of Quips.” Here’s why:

“You want monogamy? Marry a swan.” “When your children are teenagers,it’s important to have a dog so that someone in the house is happy to see you.” “Secret to life? Marry an Italian.”

This last line, one imagines, as a tribute to Ephron’s third husband, author Nick Pileggi, whose 1986 book Wiseguy: Life in a Mafia Family was adapted into the 1990 Martin Scorsese film Goodfellas. Nick and Nora. How Ephron must have enjoyed the happy coincidence with Dashiell Hammett’s characters Nick and Nora Charles played by William Powell and Myrna Loy in the 1934 film The Thin Man. In addition to her films and the recent collections I Feel Bad About My Neck (2006), and I Remember Nothing (2010), check out Ephron’s earlier collections: Wallflower at the Orgy (1970), Crazy Salad (1975), Scribble, Scribble (1978). And take my advice, for pains of the heart, there’s nothing like Nora’s Frozen Key Lime Pie.

In Heartburn (1986), Meryl Streep stars as the real life Nora Ephron, and Jack Nicholson stars as her philandering husband.

Ephron was the screenwriter and producer for Heartburn, and multiple other feature films. She was credited as director for a total of eight movies.

Ephron received one of her three Oscar nomination for When Harry Met Sally... (1986), starring Meg Ryan and Billy Crystal.

The last movie Ephron directed, Julie & Julia (2009), starring Meryl Streep as Julia Child, drew on her passion for food.


Wh

en

Harr

y M

et

Sally

: p

yxu

rz.b

log

spo

t.co

m, Ju

lie &

Ju

lia: m

ovie

bu

zzers

.co

m

ww

w.a

ltfg

.co

m


U

eading the book introduced me to the writer who was a big sister to a whole generation of women; an advance scout, warning of what lay ahead. Wherever life took you, marriage, motherhood, divorce, menopause, and ultimately aging, Ephron had been there. What’s more, she could look back and laugh. Ephron’s life was her copy and while her personal

narratives were her own, they resonated with her readers. She wrote candidly about her failed relationships and difficult childhood (by the time she was 15 her mother was drinking a bottle of Scotch a night and her father had a similar problem). Her subjects were quotidian—the insipidness of egg-white omelets, her apartment in the historic Apthorp Building on the Upper West Side, Teflon pans, even neck wrinkles. “There are chicken necks. There are turkey gobbler necks. There are elephant necks,” she wrote in the title essay from her 2006 collection I Feel Bad About My Neck. “There are necks with wattles and necks with creases that are on the verge of becoming wattles. ...According to my dermatologist, the neck starts to go at 43 and that’s that.” When Ephron held up a mirror, millions of American women saw themselves. One could imagine bumping into her in Zabar’s. She’d be the perfect dinner guest. Ephron knew food. She sprinkled recipes throughout her writings. Heartburn is studded with them: food as metaphor for feeling. “Nora understood that nothing talked more loudly, or more eloquently, than food,” wrote restaurant critic Frank Bruni in a June 27 Diner’s Journal tribute. No matter how soon Bruni got to a new city restaurant, Nora had already been there. “Nora was a foodie not only before the word became so tiresome and tedious but before it even existed,” he said. “Nora was a foodie in the best way: driven not by snobbery but by the joy of discovery and eager not to one-up you with her latest bliss, but to share it with you, guide you toward it.” With Director Mike Nichols, Ephron stirred Meryl Streep, Jack Nicholson, Stockard Channing and Jeff Daniels, together with a dash of Carly Simon, for Heartburn, the movie. Streep stars as the real life Nora (heavily pregnant with her second child and juggling motherhood in Washington with a writing career in New York City). Nicholson stars as her philandering husband, Washington Post reporter Carl Bernstein, whose character in the book is described as “capable of having sex with a Venetian blind.” Bernstein along with fellow Post reporter Bob Woodward, (he famously exposed the Watergate scandal that brought down President Richard Nixon) threatened to sue, but wisely thought better of it.

In preparing this piece, I enjoyed my own Nora-Fest, immersing myself in her writings and films. I laughed and I cried. Sometimes I laughed till I cried. In Heartburn, the movie, I spotted Kevin Spacey in an early role as the subway mugger who robs Nora’s character and her entire therapy group. In the last scene, Streep smooshes Key Lime Pie in Nicholson’s face. “The key lime pie is very simple to make,” wrote Ephron, oh so matter-of-factly. “First you line a nine-inch pie plate with a graham cracker crust. Then beat six egg yolks. Add one cup lime juice (even bottled lime juice will do), two fourteen-ounce cans sweetened condensed milk, and one tablespoon grated lime rind. Pour into the pie shell and freeze. Remove from freezer and spread with whipped cream. Let sit five minutes before serving.” Perfect for eight friends or one cheating husband. To be on the safe side, since the yolks are uncooked, it’s best to use pasteurized eggs (a piece of advice at which, I’d bet, Nora would have scoffed). Ephron’s humor was often self-deprecating. Of her time as a White House intern in the summer of 1961, she joked that she was probably the only intern that John F. Kennedy didn’t make a pass at. If there’s such a thing as New Yorkitude, Ephron had it. Actresses like Meg Ryan, Meryl Streep and Diane Keaton loved working with her. Ephron wrote her first screenplay, with Alice Arlen, for the 1983 movie Silkwood. Streep starred as Karen Silkwood the anti-nuclear activist who died suspiciously while investigating practices at the plutonium plant where she’d been employed. Ephron moved to directing with the 1992 comedy This Is My Life, which she co-wrote with her sister Delia Ephron. The romantic comedy Sleepless in Seattle followed a year later, with Tom Hanks and Meg Ryan. Hanks and Ryan are separated for most of the film and meet at the end on Valentine’s Day atop the Empire State Building, just as Cary Grant and Deborah Kerr had done in the sentimental 1957 An Affair to Remember. Ephron acknowledges the reference. Ryan is shown watching the old movie on television. Hanks and Ryan got together again in Ephron’s You’ve Got Mail, which, in addition to being a romance, is a love letter to Manhattan. Like her predecessor Frank Capra (It Happened One Night, 1934; It’s a Wonderful Life, 1946), Ephron’s comedies have satisfyingly happy endings. Like her contemporary Nancy Meyers (It’s Complicated, 2009) Ephron deftly handles modern relationships. And as the consummate New Yorker, she shares Woody Allen’s love for the city, romanticizing Central Park with

scenes of skaters on the pond, children sledding, and the Rockefeller Center tree as a counterpoint to Billy Crystal and Meg Ryan’s dawning realization of love in the 1989 film, When Harry Met Sally… Unlike Allen, however, there was nothing self-absorbed about Ephron. She had none of his pretentions to high art. Ephron received one of her three Oscar nominations for the When Harry Met Sally… screenplay (the others were for Silkwood and Sleepless in Seattle). The film includes what is probably Ephron’s most famous line. Meg Ryan’s simulation of orgasmic ecstasy while seated in a diner across from Billy Crystal has become a classic movie moment. Ryan’s oohs, aahs and table-pounding climax are hilarious. The line that follows, “I’ll have what’s she’s having,” delivered dead pan by an elderly woman patron (played, incidentally, by Director Rob Reiner’s mother Estelle Reiner) caps it all. The last movie Ephron directed, Julie & Julia, starring Meryl Streep as Julia Child, drew on her passion for food. “Wait until you see the butter,” Bruni recalled her telling him while the film was in production: “She was talking about one of her favorite shots, of butter melting and sizzling in a pan, and she had taken exquisite pains to make sure it was just so, to make sure that anyone with any sort of appetite at all would see it and feel his mouth water, his stomach rumble.” Born in 1941 on the Upper West Side, Ephron was the eldest of four daughters, all of whom became writers. When she was four, her parents, Henry Ephron and Phoebe Wolkind, moved to Los Angeles to work as Hollywood screenwriters. They wrote, among other films, Carousel and There’s No Business Like Show Business. Although she lived among Hollywood royalty, Ephron always thought of New York City as her real home and never forgave her parents for the move. After graduating from Wellesley in 1962, she headed straight back to New York. Her first job was as a mail girl and fact checker at Newsweek. Soon she was contributing to The New York Post, covering events like the arrival of The Beatles. By the late 1960s, she had built a reputation for candidly funny personal essays and incisive profiles for Esquire and New York magazines and was a regular contributor to The New York Times. To readers like me, Ephron’s life seemed an open book. One thing she kept private, however, was the gravity of her illness. Her death in June came as a shock. It turned out that she’d been diagnosed with leukemia in 2006. Only a few close family members and friends knew.

R

On August 26, Ginia Bellafante, host of The New York Times’s Big City Book Club (http://cityroom.blogs.nytimes.com /category/big-city-book-club/) celebrated Ephron by reading her 1960s and ’70s articles from Rolling Stone, New York and The New Yorker. Comparing Ephron to Joan Didion, Bellafante wrote: “Ms. Ephron and Ms. Didion were arguably the two most acclaimed female journalists of the late midcentury, their sensibilities perfectly opposed. One wonders what they made of each other at the parties, in New York and Los Angeles, where they inevitably came into contact, Ms. Didion’s neurasthenia up against Ms. Ephron’s strudel-loving bonhomie.” Ephron’s talent drew comparisons to Dorothy Parker. Writing in ArtsBeat magazine, John Williams called her “The Queen of Quips.” Here’s why:

“You want monogamy? Marry a swan.” “When your children are teenagers,it’s important to have a dog so that someone in the house is happy to see you.” “Secret to life? Marry an Italian.”

This last line, one imagines, as a tribute to Ephron’s third husband, author Nick Pileggi, whose 1986 book Wiseguy: Life in a Mafia Family was adapted into the 1990 Martin Scorsese film Goodfellas. Nick and Nora. How Ephron must have enjoyed the happy coincidence with Dashiell Hammett’s characters Nick and Nora Charles played by William Powell and Myrna Loy in the 1934 film The Thin Man. In addition to her films and the recent collections I Feel Bad About My Neck (2006), and I Remember Nothing (2010), check out Ephron’s earlier collections: Wallflower at the Orgy (1970), Crazy Salad (1975), Scribble, Scribble (1978). And take my advice, for pains of the heart, there’s nothing like Nora’s Frozen Key Lime Pie.

In Heartburn (1986), Meryl Streep stars as the real life Nora Ephron, and Jack Nicholson stars as her philandering husband.

Ephron was the screenwriter and producer for Heartburn, and multiple other feature films. She was credited as director for a total of eight movies.

Ephron received one of her three Oscar nomination for When Harry Met Sally... (1986), starring Meg Ryan and Billy Crystal.

The last movie Ephron directed, Julie & Julia (2009), starring Meryl Streep as Julia Child, drew on her passion for food.


Wh

en

Harr

y M

et

Sally

: p

yxu

rz.b

log

spo

t.co

m, J

ulie

& J

ulia

: m

ovie

bu

zzers

.co

m

ww

w.a

ltfg

.co

m

NoraEphron_UA_FINAL.indd 5 11/9/12 10:20:02 AM


URBAN FOOD

s the year draws to a close, thoughts of Holiday shopping—finding just the right something for just the right someone (perhaps yet another tie for Uncle Willie and scarf for Auntie Mae?)—make this cook want to run screaming. I’d prefer to peel a mountain of shrimp, one of my least favorite tasks in the kitchen, than jostle my way through crowds of

shoppers in their annual, frantic consumer-contact sport. By the time you are in the holiday spirit and having romantic visions of a snowy Christmas in a Currier and Ives landscape, I will have already put together and styled eight Thanksgivings, half-a-dozen Christmases and fried enough Hanukkah latkes to last several lifetimes. So when people ask me “What are you making this holiday?,” I say “Reservations!” But it’s the festive season, and I must stare down my inner Scrooge. The best way to do this, I’ve found, is to leaven duty with delight; life’s revenge is to eat well. Here are three recommendations for a well-deserved break if you find yourself in the city on a shopping expedition. All are swell. May I suggest you gently and carefully remove this page from the magazine and put it in your back pocket so that after you have taken care of everyone on your list, you can treat yourself to a meal far beyond the allure of any sugar plum. All three are guaranteed to either cure the holiday blues or maintain that holiday buzz. FIG & OLIVE (10 EAST 52nd St., 212.319.2002) Upper Madison Avenue has always been a tony shopping destination but has recently also become seriously hip. At Fig & Olive, a quick turn between Madison and Fifth, the street hustle and bustle is magically transformed into a Mediterranean getaway. The friendly staff will offer you a choice of seating at the spacious bar, at an elevated communal table, or, if you prefer, traditional table service. You can eat light or enjoy full service from executive chef Pascal Lorange. Lorange’s dishes are sure to transport you with their sunny, bright, robust flavors. Whet your appetite on a selection of crostini, cured meats, cheeses, crudo and interesting vegetables. Then the full menu will hop, skip, and jump you through the flavors of France, Italy, and Spain. Hey, who knew you could be so suddenly and delightfully far from the madding crowd.

THE MODERN (Museum of Modern Art, 9 West 53rd St., 212.333.1220)

has such a discreet entrance, separate from the museum, that I tend to walk past it every time. As you enter the restaurant, with its minimal design nod to the museum, you’ll immediately feel the calm after, or during, the storm. Hand yourself (and your bulky bags) over to the ever-gracious and accommodating staff of Danny Meyer’s acclaimed Union Square Hospitality Group, which runs the museum’s three dining options. The cocktail sections or tables are just right for lunch or early dinner and more formal destination dining is available in the adjacent space overlooking the Modern’s sculpture garden (book ahead) where the floral designs are definitely museum quality. The French-American cuisine of Alsatian-born chef Gabriel Kreuther excites the eye as well as the palate and well-versed bartenders will help you navigate not only the drinks offerings but as many choices of small plates and nibbles as you could hope to find in a Christmas stocking. The diverse menu here reminds us that to eat in New York is to be at the center of the culinary universe. THE PLAZA FOOD HALL (The Plaza Hotel, One West 59th St.

Concourse, 5th Ave. & 59th St., 212.986.9260) at the Plaza Hotel is the perfect destination if you’re traveling in a pack with family or friends. Even the most finicky of tastes will find satisfaction. The basement of the renowned hotel has been tastefully and excitingly transformed into the likes of a European food hall. A hostess will show you to one of the elevated tables or counters scattered throughout the hall, and no matter where you are seated you can order anything from the many stations: the grill, pasta, pizza oven, oyster bar, sushi bar, salads of all kinds, noodles and dumplings, a taqueria (for tacos), artisanal cheeses, and cured meats. Fun, too, to simply wander around. Not only can you eat like a king, but you can shop like one. There are a zillion items to gift the cook in your life. Now that’s the kind of shopping I enjoy.

AESCAPETHE MADDING (HOLIDAY) CROWD

After a quarter century of living, cooking, and eating in New York City, I know where I like to eat and I know exactly why. I first came to the Big Apple to teach at Peter Kump’s New York Cooking School (now the Institute of Culinary Education). Good fortune led me to work as a food editor and senior stylist at the late, and very lamented, Gourmet magazine. My original training had been as an artist (the illustrations in Simone Beck’s Food and Friends: Recipes and Memories from Simca’s Cuisine are mine) and today I continue to satisfy my dual passions—for art and for cooking—as a food stylist, creating beautiful images of food for books, magazines, and the occasional advertisement. My pencils and brushes have long nestled happily alongside my cook’s knife-roll.

{BY PAUL GRIMES}

U(clo

ckw

ise f

rom

to

p left

) w

ww

.fig

an

do

live.c

om

, w

ww

.th

em

od

ern

nyc.c

om

, -N

isa (

flic

kr)

, n

ickn

am

em

iket

(flic

kr)

.

UrbanFoodFinal.indd 2 11/8/12 10:20:37 PM


URBAN FOOD

s the year draws to a close, thoughts of Holiday shopping—finding just the right something for just the right someone (perhaps yet another tie for Uncle Willie and scarf for Auntie Mae?)—make this cook want to run screaming. I’d prefer to peel a mountain of shrimp, one of my least favorite tasks in the kitchen, than jostle my way through crowds of

shoppers in their annual, frantic consumer-contact sport. By the time you are in the holiday spirit and having romantic visions of a snowy Christmas in a Currier and Ives landscape, I will have already put together and styled eight Thanksgivings, half-a-dozen Christmases and fried enough Hanukkah latkes to last several lifetimes. So when people ask me “What are you making this holiday?,” I say “Reservations!” But it’s the festive season, and I must stare down my inner Scrooge. The best way to do this, I’ve found, is to leaven duty with delight; life’s revenge is to eat well. Here are three recommendations for a well-deserved break if you find yourself in the city on a shopping expedition. All are swell. May I suggest you gently and carefully remove this page from the magazine and put it in your back pocket so that after you have taken care of everyone on your list, you can treat yourself to a meal far beyond the allure of any sugar plum. All three are guaranteed to either cure the holiday blues or maintain that holiday buzz. FIG & OLIVE (10 EAST 52nd St., 212.319.2002) Upper Madison Avenue has always been a tony shopping destination but has recently also become seriously hip. At Fig & Olive, a quick turn between Madison and Fifth, the street hustle and bustle is magically transformed into a Mediterranean getaway. The friendly staff will offer you a choice of seating at the spacious bar, at an elevated communal table, or, if you prefer, traditional table service. You can eat light or enjoy full service from executive chef Pascal Lorange. Lorange’s dishes are sure to transport you with their sunny, bright, robust flavors. Whet your appetite on a selection of crostini, cured meats, cheeses, crudo and interesting vegetables. Then the full menu will hop, skip, and jump you through the flavors of France, Italy, and Spain. Hey, who knew you could be so suddenly and delightfully far from the madding crowd.

THE MODERN (Museum of Modern Art, 9 West 53rd St., 212.333.1220)

has such a discreet entrance, separate from the museum, that I tend to walk past it every time. As you enter the restaurant, with its minimal design nod to the museum, you’ll immediately feel the calm after, or during, the storm. Hand yourself (and your bulky bags) over to the ever-gracious and accommodating staff of Danny Meyer’s acclaimed Union Square Hospitality Group, which runs the museum’s three dining options. The cocktail sections or tables are just right for lunch or early dinner and more formal destination dining is available in the adjacent space overlooking the Modern’s sculpture garden (book ahead) where the floral designs are definitely museum quality. The French-American cuisine of Alsatian-born chef Gabriel Kreuther excites the eye as well as the palate and well-versed bartenders will help you navigate not only the drinks offerings but as many choices of small plates and nibbles as you could hope to find in a Christmas stocking. The diverse menu here reminds us that to eat in New York is to be at the center of the culinary universe. THE PLAZA FOOD HALL (The Plaza Hotel, One West 59th St.

Concourse, 5th Ave. & 59th St., 212.986.9260) at the Plaza Hotel is the perfect destination if you’re traveling in a pack with family or friends. Even the most finicky of tastes will find satisfaction. The basement of the renowned hotel has been tastefully and excitingly transformed into the likes of a European food hall. A hostess will show you to one of the elevated tables or counters scattered throughout the hall, and no matter where you are seated you can order anything from the many stations: the grill, pasta, pizza oven, oyster bar, sushi bar, salads of all kinds, noodles and dumplings, a taqueria (for tacos), artisanal cheeses, and cured meats. Fun, too, to simply wander around. Not only can you eat like a king, but you can shop like one. There are a zillion items to gift the cook in your life. Now that’s the kind of shopping I enjoy.

AESCAPETHE MADDING (HOLIDAY) CROWD

After a quarter century of living, cooking, and eating in New York City, I know where I like to eat and I know exactly why. I first came to the Big Apple to teach at Peter Kump’s New York Cooking School (now the Institute of Culinary Education). Good fortune led me to work as a food editor and senior stylist at the late, and very lamented, Gourmet magazine. My original training had been as an artist (the illustrations in Simone Beck’s Food and Friends: Recipes and Memories from Simca’s Cuisine are mine) and today I continue to satisfy my dual passions—for art and for cooking—as a food stylist, creating beautiful images of food for books, magazines, and the occasional advertisement. My pencils and brushes have long nestled happily alongside my cook’s knife-roll.

{BY PAUL GRIMES}

U(clo

ckw

ise f

rom

to

p left

) w

ww

.fig

an

do

live.c

om

, w

ww

.th

em

od

ern

nyc.c

om

, -N

isa (

flic

kr)

, n

ickn

am

em

iket

(flic

kr)

.

UrbanFoodFinal.indd 3 11/8/12 10:20:48 PM


Ongoing Events in November: The New York Comedy Festival.

The New York Chocolate Show.

Mon, November 12Madonna, the queen of pop, stops in New York City as part of her 2012 World Tour; Madison Square Garden.

Tues, November 13“A Civil War Christmas” by the New York Theatre Workshop (through Dec. 30).

The Museum at FIT presents a fashion conversation on “Swedish Fashion: H&M, Acne, and Much More.” The guest panel will discuss the prominent role that Sweden has played in the world of fashion and design. The presentation will include guest appearances by Mikael Schiller, CEO of Acne Studios, Catarina Midby of H&M, and many more.

calendar highlights

no

ve

mb

er Thurs, November 15

The “Legendary Movie Stars” series returns to the 92nd Street Y. The series is devoted to classic movie stars who defined glamour. Howard Oboler leads the discussion and shows film clips focused on the style of such film greats as Humphrey Bogart and Ingrid Bergman. For more information, visit www.92y.org.

The Milliners Guild hosts its fifth annual homage to St. Catherine, the patron saint of hatmakers, with a promenade through midtown. The parade begins at the Millinery Center Synagogue between 38th and 39th Streets.

Fri, November 16Opening of the New York Transit Museum’s Holiday Train Show. Wander through the 34-foot long display detailed with miniature versions of NYC landmarks like the Brooklyn Bridge and the Empire State Building; New York Transit Museum Gallery Annex (through Sunday, Jan. 27, 2013).

Sun, November 18The Brooklyn Museum presents an arts workshop for children called, “Sparkle, Shimmer, Reflect, and Shine: Art and Light.” In this class, children will learn how artists from Jean-Michel Othoniel to Claude Monet worked with light and will use this knowledge to create their own masterpieces.

Tues, November 20Enjoy free coffee and pastries at select dog-friendly parks in Central Park for New York’s Central Park Bagel Bark.

Writer and comedian Gary Shteyngart reads from his satiric novels Super Sad True Love Story and Absurdistan; BAM Harvey Theater, Brooklyn.

Sun, November 25Free Fashion Walking Tour through New York City’s Garment District. Visit private showrooms, a sample sale, tour Mood Fabrics, and more. The tour is free and begins at the corner of Seventh Avenue and West 39th Street (also meets December 9).

Wed, November 28The 80th annual Rockefeller Center Tree Lighting, Rockefellercenter.com (on view through January 7).

“Don Giovanni” at the Metropolitan Opera (through December 20).

Opening night of Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater’s 2012 Season.

Wed, November 14The Who’s Pete Townsend and Roger Daltrey perform their classic rock opera, “Quadrophenia”; Nassau Coliseum, Uniondale, NY.

Sat, November 17Annual Holiday Train Show at the New York Botanical Gardens, Nybg.org (through January 13).

New York Road Runner’s Club presents the NYC 60K, New York City’s premiere ultramarathon race, nyrr.org.

Wed, November 21Watch the popular balloons from the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade being inflated (it’s a lot less crowded than the parade, itself); held near the American Museum of Natural History.

Thurs, November 22The 86th Annual Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, Macys.com

Fri, November 23The New York City Ballet performs George Balanchine’s “The Nutcracker”, David H. Koch Theater; Lincoln Center, Nycballet.com (through Dec. 30).

Thurs, November 2936th Annual Margaret Mead Film Festival; American Museum of Natural History (through Dec. 2).

Fri, November 30The Red Hot Series presents a musical tribute to Cuba featuring musical artists Alexander Abreu, CuCu Diamantes, and Kelvis; BAM, Brooklyn.

On-going Exhibitions:Bergdorf Goodman celebrates its 111th Anniversary with 111 top-designer pieces created for the occasion. Expect special retail exhibits from everyone from Marc Jacobs to Valentino.

“Ivy Style” looks at the history of preppy men’s fashions with more than 60 looks dating back to 1919; The Museum at FIT (through January 2013).

Experience “Lilliput, Artwork Along the High Line”; The High Line (through December 1).

12/5

11/16 11/22

CalendarFinal-rv.indd 2 11/9/12 10:22:27 AM


De

ce

mb

er

“Katherine Hepburn: Dressed for Stage and Screen” examines the private and public fashion choices of Hollywood legend Katherine Hepburn; New York Public Library for the Performing Arts (through January 2013).

“EletriCity: Powering New York’s Rails”; New York Transit Museum (through December 30).

“Materializing ‘Six Years’: Lucy R. Lippard and the Emergence of Conceptual Art”; Brooklyn Museum (through February 2013).

The 30th Next Wave Festival; Brooklyn Academy of Music (through January 2013).

“Bernini: Sculpturing in Clay”; The Metropolitan Museum of Art (through January 2013).

“Matisse: In Search of True Painting” (through March 2013).

“Through Soviet Jewish Eyes: Photography, War, and the Holocaust”; Museum of Jewish Heritage (through April 2013).

“Battle of Brooklyn, August 27, 1776”; Harbor Defense Museum (through December 31).

“Journey to the Stars”; American Museum of Natural History (through December 31).

“Edith Wharton’s New York City: A Backward Glance”; New York Society Library (through January 1).

“Spy: The Secret World of Espionage”; Discovery Times Square (through December 31).

Arthur Ross Hall of Meteorites; American Museum of Natural History (through December 31).

“Masterworks: Jewels of the Collection”; Rubin Museum of Art (through December 31).

“Creatures of Light: Nature’s Bioluminescence”; American Museum of Natural History (through January 6).

Tour the Brooklyn Navy Yard’s new visitor center, BLDG 92 (through December 30).

All of December: Holiday Shop Windows.

Sat, December 1Whitney Museum hosts “Family Fun Art Workshop: From Wegman to Warhol.” For families with kids ages 6-10, come learn what Pop art is all about! Families will discover how artists explore themes such as popular culture, celebrities, and consumer culture in America (also, on Dec. 8 and 15).

Wed, December 5Andrea Bocelli performs at Barclays Center, Brooklyn.

Artist and former Talking Heads musician, David Byrne delves into his personal history with a discussion of the mechanics of songwriting and music-making; Celeste Bartos Forum, Humanities and Social Sciences Library at The New York Public Library.

Tour the 9/11 Memorial “Reflecting Absence” by Michael Arad (open through December 27).

Gazillion Bubble Show; New World Stages (through December 30).

The New American Wing; The Metropolitan Museum of Art (through December 30).

“Activist New York”; Museum of the City of New York (through December 31).

“Behind the Screen”; Museum of the Moving Image (through December 31).

One the American Museum of Natural History’s most popular seasonal exhibitions, “The Butterfly Conservatory” runs through May 2013.

Photographic installation by Gabriel Orozco; Guggenheim Museum of New York (through January 13).

“Picasso Black & White”; Guggenheim Museum of New York (through January 23).

“Tokyo 1955-1970: A New Avant-Garde” at the MoMA (through February 25).

First Saturdays for Families at the New Museum of Contemporary Art. New Museum First Saturdays for Families are free of charge and offer hands-on programs, docent led tours, and access to all of the latest exhibits.

Screening of The Met’s, Live in HD “La Clemenza di Tito”; Brooklyn Academy of Music.

Tues, December 4African Art, New York and the Avant-Garde exhibition at The Metropolitan Museum of Art (through March 2013).

Fri, December 7Baroque performance by The Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center; Alice Tully Hall Starr Theater.

Sat, December 8Lighting of the World’s Largest Hanukkah Menorah (through December 16).

Thurs, December 138PM Legendary rock-group The Rolling Stones perform at the Prudential Center in Newark, NJ.

Sun, December 16Brandenburg Concertos by The Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center; Alice Tully Hall Starr Theater (through December 18).

Tues, December 18The iconic singer-songwriter Leonard Cohen performs live at Barclays Center; Flatbush, Brooklyn.

Mon, December 31Times Square New Year’s Eve Celebration, Timessquarenyc.org.

New York Road Runners Emerald Nuts Midnight Run, Nyrr.org.

12/13

12/31

CalendarFinal-rv.indd 3 11/9/12 10:23:30 AM

58 URBAN AGENDA New York City Holiday 2012

Matt Treichel’s AP Chemistry studentshave earned an average score of 4.76out of 5.00 on the national exam for thelast 13 years. The national averageis 2.58.

Experience a dynamic communitywhere learning is a passion and each dayis infused with a spirit of joy.

THE HUN SCHOOL OF PRINCETONServing grades 6 through 12 and post graduates

www.hunschool.org (609) 921-7600

JOYFUL LEARNING

Matt TreichelAP Chemistry TeacherThe Hun School of Princeton

Hun halfpg UAM 2012 ad_Layout 1 10/25/12 10:31 AM Page 1

www.peddie.orgSouth Main Street | Hightstown, New Jersey

Respect

Honesty

scHolaRsHip

couRage

Balance

A co-educational boarding and day school with 550 students in grades 9–12 and post-graduate located on 280 acres minutes from Princeton, NJ

founded in 1864

scan

code

to le

arn

mor

e

Barbara BlackwellBroker AssociateCallaway Henderson Sotheby’s International Realty(609) 915-5000 [email protected]

For more information about properties, the market in general, or your home in

particular, please give me a call.

Prefer In Town or In Paradise?

Like a bird in flight, the undulating roof of this mid-century modern masterpiece seems to defy gravity and is without doubt the defining feature of architect Jules Gregory’s personal home, built in 1960 on 10 acres in West Amwell and newly renovated, along with its guest-house. One of the 10 Best Homes in America, Architectural Record, 1961.

$1,100,000, Call Barbara Blackwell (609) 915-5000

The Joseph Olden House, a circa 1760 storybook stone cottage behind a hedge of roses, has been twice enlarged and enhanced by celebrated architects. It now boasts 3 bed-rooms, two updated baths and high-end kitchen. The deep lot has brick walls and ruins providing potential for additional living space or secret gardens. Seller is licensed NJ real estate agent. In Princeton Borough. $899,000. Call Willa Stackpole (609) 915-9056

Blackwell.indd 1 11/9/12 12:44:44 PM


www.poggenpohl.com

Celebrating 120 Years of Luxury Kitchens

POGGENPOHL KITCHEN DESIGN STUDIOS: Poggenpohl Paramus 117 East Route 4 West, Paramus, NJ, 201-587-9090, www.paramus.poggenpohl.com Poggenpohl New York Midtown 150 East 58th Street, New York, NY, 212-355-3666, www.nymidtown.poggenpohl.com Poggenpohl New York Downtown 270 Park Avenue South, New York, NY, 212-228-3334, www.nydowntown.poggenpohl.com

4143 Urban Agenda Nov.2012 PoggenPohl.indd 1 10/23/12 1:51 PMUrban_ad_Temp.indd 1 11/8/12 11:12:20 PM

60 URBAN AGENDA New York City HOLIDAY 2012

48 West Broad Street • Hopewell, NJ 08525 • p: 609.466.1445 • f: 609.466.1499 • tobiasdesignllc.com

DiStiNctive SelectioNS of

WooDS, fiNiSHeS aND StyleS

iNSpiriNg cuStom DeSigNS

proJect maNagemeNt

from coNcept to completioN

RedefiningDesign

fine cabinetry

48 West Broad Street • Hopewell, NJ 08525

p: 609.921.9593 • f: 609.466.1445 • tobiasdesignllc.com




proJect maNagemeNt


RedefiningDesign

fine cabinetry






proJect maNagemeNt


RedefiningDesign

fine cabinetry






proJect maNagemeNt


RedefiningDesign

fine cabinetry






proJect maNagemeNt


RedefiningDesign

fine cabinetry






proJect maNagemeNt


RedefiningDesign

fine cabinetry






proJect maNagemeNt


RedefiningDesign

fine cabinetry






proJect maNagemeNt


RedefiningDesign

of our AP Scholars also engage in the Arts.

Where

Gray Matters100 %

Discover why so many Pingry students achieve academic, athletic, and artistic excellence. Visit Pingry.org for Admission event dates or call us at 908-647-6419.Source: Pingry Class of 2012



HAVE YOUREALLYEXPERIENCEDALL THERE IS?CONTINENTALGTC V8 The new Bentley Continental GTC V8 promises an open-top driving experience that is as refined as it is exhilarating.

As the engine accelerates through the smooth 8-speed transmission, the revs build taking the menacing growl to an

awe-inspiring roar. It is the sound of the all-wheel drive GTC’s visceral 4.0-litre twin-turbo delivering unadulterated

sports performance, dashing from zero to 60mph in a mere 4.7 seconds. This is a Bentley like no other.

DIFFERENTLY DRIVEN.

To bring this ad to life, simply download Aurasma Lite from your app store. Point your device at the image to access special hidden content.

BENTLEY PARSIPPANY

Bentley Parsippany

250 U.S. Highway 46 Parsippany NJ 07054 USAFor infomation call 973.575.7755 or visit www.paulmillerbentley.com

Fuel consumption figures for the Continental GTC V8 in mpg: City 14; Highway 24; Combined 17. EPA-estimated fuel economy. Actual mileage may vary.The name B̀entley’ and the B̀’ in wings device are registered trademarks. © 2012 Bentley Motors, Inc. Model shown: Continental GTC V8.


Documents

Urban Agenda New York City