PLAYGROUND

Lifestyle for the New York Mom

sizzling Hot
Weather
Summer Style
Beauty
Our Favorites of
the Season

KEEPING
COOL
Kids’ Fashion That
Beats the Heat

Cream of the Crop

THE BEST OF THE HAMPTONS

Padma Lakshmi
forg in g t
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h
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 EDITOR’S
LETTER

HOT HOT HEAT

Keeping cool has never been so easy!
6
Divalysscious
Moms Musts
1. Whether you’re a
mom with only five
seconds to spare—
or a mom with an
attention span of
five seconds—this
journal is for you!
Mom’s Five-Second
Journal.
Memory Journal

2. Healthy snacks on-

the-go—what could be
better? For busy moms
this summer Sonny &
Joes hummus is a really
fabulous, convenient
snack that is a healthy
alternative to junk food!

I
t’s summertime! I’m sure you’re as ex-
cited as I am that it’s (finally!) warm and
sunny out and time to wear those fabulous
sunglasses. Have you noticed that people
just seem happier this time of year, par-
ticularly us parents? Now’s the perfect time for
ice cream cones, bike rides in the park or by the
beach, or just relaxing with the family on a lazy
afternoon. And of course no matter how much
your little ones love school, there’s vacation for
them to get extra-excited about too!
This summer issue of Observer Playground is
about Punch Fitness, where you can quickly
whip your body into shape by boxing.
Of course we’ve also included our picks of our
3. Gotta love it, gotta have
favorite irresistible indulgences, from the best
PhotoOp NYC custom-
it—PhotoOp
it—
summer beauty items to adorable fashions for ized IPAD case with your
the kids to extra-special treats on this issue’s Wee ones precious photo.
Lysst. And, of course, our Hot-to-Tot list has
loads of must-have goodies as well. There’s also 4. There are
a story on a terrific new accessories line, Theo- soccer moms
and there are
dora and Callum, that was recently launched
runway moms,
by Scoop founder Stefani Greenfield and uber- but the Missoni +
publicist Desiree Gruber.

PORTRAIT: TRACY TOLER PHOTOGRAPHY; PRODUCTS COURTESY OF THE MANUFACTURERS

Bugaboo line is
filled with articles to get you psyched and ready As always, we’ve got some fantastic inter- tailored toward
for this wonderful season. Find out about the views in this issue, as well. Find out more about the Divamoms.
ultimate New Yorker’s summertime secret: the the gorgeous Padma Lakshmi who graces our
family-friendly beach clubs of Atlantic Beach, cover. She talks about her life as a New York 5. Whoopie!
White Velvet
Long Island. For those headed out east for the mom, TV star, jewelry designer, entrepreneur
Shea Butter
hot weather, we have a piece on the best of and fundraiser for endometriosis research. Cream is a jar-
everything in the Hamptons for families. To Enjoy the issue…and have a fabulous summer ful of joy! Lightly
combat the inevitable summer anxiety-inducer filled with sunshine, smiles and plenty of time scented with white velvet
—looking good in a bikini—there’s a piece all with the family! cream and moist layer
cake, it’s hard to resist.

6. Did someone say a

goodnight’s sleep? The
PolarPillow is a scientif-
ically-formulated COOL
www.observer.com/playground PILLOW that uses advanced
www.divamoms.com gel technology to cool.

6 PLAYGROUND SUMMER 2011

Book Your EvEnt

54 West 21st Street, Between 5th and 6th Avenues, nYC

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 playground
editor in chief lyss stern

managing editor shaina FeinberG

fashion editor raChel Felder

kids fashion editor stePhanie Kaster
editorial associates raChel morGan, elyse adler

contributors

CriCKet azima Julie earle-levine

JessiCa delFino zibby riGht
Charlotte Garden amy sChroeder
ann Flynn raChel h. smith
lambeth hoChwald

art director sCott dvorin

Production director tyler rush

Photo editor Peter lettre

advertising/Production coordinator lisa medChill

associate Publisher, Observer playGrOund

betty shaw lederman

account executives
mitCh bedell, david bendayan, Paul Kornblueh,
miChelle morGan, alexander nuCKel, sPenCer sharP,
robyn weiss, david wolFF

sales assistant Katherine desPaGni

Observer Media Group

Publisher Jared Kushner

editorial director elizabeth sPiers

design director ivylise simones

President ChristoPher barnes

executive vice President barry lewis

associate Publisher Jamie Forrest

senior vice President sales stePhen GoldberG

senior vice President sales and marketing david GursKy

director of classified advertising Ken newman

marketing manager Jill GutenKunst

vice President CirCulation Kratos vos

circulation
alexandra enderle, Peter Parris, Carlos rodriGuez

the neW York observer

321 West 44th street
new York, nY 10036
212.755.2400
www.observer.com

on the cover Model, actress, host of Top Chef, cook book author,
jewelry designer, mom and advocate to raise awareness for suffer-
ers of endometriosis: Padma Lakshmi is beautiful and busy-as-ever.
Lakshmi was photographed by Cheyenne Ellis.

8 playground summer 2011

Rock Tradition.
Rock Tradition.

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& fifth avenue at trump tower 1.888.756.9912
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 A magical summer
of movement & music...
Dance Classes for ages 2 -18

40
Photo © P. Goode

2121 Broadway @ 74th St., New York, NY 10023

StepsNYC.com 212-874-3678 theschool@stepsnyc.com
CONTENTS
PlaygroundAdFinal.indd 1
Departments
4/27/11 12:04:04 PM

12 SHOPPING LYSST 28 BOOKS

16 BEAUTY 32 HOROSCOPES
18 FITNESS 34 HEALTHY EATING
26 HOT-TO-TOT 36 REAL ESTATE

Features
40 PADMA LAKSHMI
She’s got it all and doesn’t mind flaunting it.
Find out how to get a touch of her magic.
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 THE
LYSST
GOTTA HAVE IT
Summer’s the perfect time for an indulgent, fashionable
pick-me-up, whether it’s a new pair of sunglasses, a great
piece of jewelry or a very necessary beauty item. Here are
our picks by Lyss Stern and Rachel Felder
A. MODERN LEGACY 1
DIAMOND MEDALLION
EARRINGS $299,
Ultra Diamonds
Diamonds are, indeed, a
girl’s best friend. We love
this delicate pair of ear-
rings, which look like a
family heirloom straight
from your grandmother’s
jewelry box, but are a steal
at under three hundred
dollars.
B. MANOLO BLAHNIK FOR
TOUS NECKLACE $1449,
Tous Boutiques Even if you
don’t have room in your
closet for another marvel-
ous pair of Manolos, you
can still get this: a gold
Blahnik charm, produced
in partnership with the
Spanish jeweler TOUS,
with a glittering diamond
on its mini Mary Jane
strap.
C. BE AND D IPAD CASE
$238, www.beandd.com
You’ll love this leather iPad
holder from Be and D, with
details you’d expect from
your favorite handbag —
namely, bold hardware, sup-
ple leather, and of course a
great pop of color. And slim
enough to throw into a tote.
12 PLAYGROUND SUMMER 2011
a
D. JO MALONE LIME, BASIL
& MANDARIN DRY BODY OIL
$65, Bergdorf Goodman
Jo Malone has a new for-
mulation of one of its most
popular scents — Lime,
Basil, and Mandarin — in a
b
dry oil that you apply right
as you get out of the show-
c
er. It leaves a lovely, light
veil of citrusy fragrance,
perfect for the steamy days
ahead.
E. PARMIGIANI KALPA
PICCOLI WATCH $8900,
Cellini Ultimately, a watch
should feel like your favor-
ite piece of jewelry, and
that’s precisely what this
elegant bracelet watch is
likely to become. Bold and
dainty at the same time,
with art nouveau-inspired
diamond numbers and a
fluid stainless steel band.
F. MISSONI BEACH TOWEL
$195, Barneys New York
Missoni Boutiques. Even
the most basic beach essen-
tials, like a big , cozy towel, d
can go glam this summer,
courtesy of the colorful
folks at Missoni.
 BABY
BOUTIQUE
for
A Chelsea shliosph tot!
G. LA PRAIRIE ANTI-AGING
the super-sty
HYDRA TINT SPF $20, $100
f
Saks Fifth Avenue We all
know how important it
is to wear sunblock, but
as you’re getting ready to
go out each day, adding
another product to your
g daily routine can be cum-
bersome. Now there’s no
excuse to be spf-less, since
La Prairie’s introduced
this combination tinted
anti-aging moisturizer that
includes sun protection in
its formula.

H. YSL SHADES $275

Solstice Boutiques Cat’s
eyes are one of this sum-
mer’s main sunglass
silhouettes, and it’s hard
to imagine a chicer pair
than this one from YSL.
They’re somehow flat-
tering on every shape
face and are bold without
h being too much of a state-
ment for a dressed-down
afternoon with the kids.

317ea1r028TthHStreAetV) E
(n
82
(646) 633-52 o
yboutique.inf
cumisbab m ail.com
Cumi.boss@g
 beauty
Give your makeup baG
(and Face) the once-over
With NYC Makeup Artist Carlo Geraci by Ann Flynn
I
t was a blustering, cold and incredibly wet
April afternoon when Amy Martin rushed
through the glass doors of Space NK’s 99
Greene Street location.
“Sorry I’m late!” squeaked the petite
redhead, who wore gray jeans, a camel-col-
ored poncho and a light blue canvas backpack
slung over one shoulder. She had been caught
in traffic going from one appointment to the
next. Martin, who is an entrepreneur and
mother of three-year-old Janis (yes, named
after Janis Joplin), is the first to admit that
she packs way too much in to one day. “You
can only do so much,” she says. “But I always
think I’ll be able to do more!”
Martin is greeted by the handsome and
dapperly-dressed Carlo Geraci. Geraci is a
New York City makeup artist who has been in
the industry for nearly twenty years. It seems
impossible by the look of him— Geraci’s skin is
smooth and creaseless. Geraci, who is a Trish
McEvoy and Kevyn Aucoin alum, spent the
better part of a decade beautifying young and,
ahem, older women at Barneys, now works
with women all over the city and in London.
And to boot, he was also Eartha Kitt’s personal
makeup artist in the latter years of her life.
Geraci is warm and personable and incredibly
relaxed. He greets Martin with a hug, though
14 playground summer 2011
Illustration by Kristine Lombardi
the two have never met before, and
guides her to sit at a white counter in
front of a mirror. At this point, Geraci
demands that Martin hand over the goods,
which is really why she’s here. Martin ponies
up a pink and cream-colored makeup bag
that is stuffed to the gills. Geraci unzips the
bag with glee in his eyes and begins to sort
through the items inside.
This is what he does. He plunges to new
depths. He goes through your disaster of a
makeup bag—the bag you take with you every-
where, maybe it’s even the same bag you’ve had
for years, eyeliner smudges, dirty tissues and
all. He goes through your makeup mess and
helps you create order.
This could potentially be very embarrassing
but Geraci is kind and filters through the mess
cheerily and seemingly without any judgement.
In this case, he separates out what he thinks
Martin is doing right (actually, most of the bag’s
contents) and puts in a different pile the items
he will gently encourage her to toss. He notices
that she is using a foundation that is not suited
for her and flits off somewhere to come back
with the perfect color. Voila!
Geraci cleans Martin’s face of what she’s
currently wearing and quickly begins to apply
the new foundation.
“I like to play up the beauty of the wom-
an and play down the makeup,” he says as he
works. “I tell my clients, ‘pick a feature.’ So, if
you pick your eyes, you play those up and every-
thing else, like the lips, they’re more muted.”
Geraci takes Martin through some quick ways
to enhance different features. He uses a com-
bination of her own makeup and makeup from
Space NK. He writes down the brand name and
color of each of the products he is using so that
Martin will have a record of his recommenda-
tions to take with her.
Geraci also gives a lightning-fast instruc-
tion on the application of bronzer: “I suggest
using bronzer like this—imagine you are
wearing sunglasses and you’ve been out-
side all day. Place the bronzer around the
sunglasses—so the cheeks and nose and fore-
head,” he demonstrates as he speaks. Geraci
is full of tips like this one, garnered from his
many years in the business.
When he is done with Martin, she looks
great—her skin is glowing and sun-kissed and
her blue-green eyes look gigantic. And, to
be honest, the makeup bag looks a thousand
times tidier.
Book an appointment with Geraci (contact him
at carlo@carlosays.com). Your face and makeup
bag will thank you profusely.
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 bEaUty

SizzlE in thE SUMMER

Even with high temps and muggy afternoons, summer beauty doesn’t have to
be an oxymoron. These beauty helpers will make your warm weather look like a
breeze (and here’s hoping this summer has a lot of them) by Rachel H. Smith

a. tom Ford lipstiCK

$45 bergdorfgoodman.com
No matter how hot
the weather, lipstick is
a must. And with his
twelve perfect lipstick
shades from nude Vanilla
Suede to vampy Black
Orchid, Tom Ford has
elevated lipstick to some-
thing sublime. Expect
gasps of envy when you
take the lovely gold and e
white tube out of your
summer bag.

B. ClarK’s BotaniCals d. Kiehls Blue herBal

sKin Clearing FaCe
and Body Wash $46
clarksbotanicals.com
Summer can be the
worst time for skin that
struggles to stay clear
even when it isn’t covered
in sweat and sunblock. Let
this face and body wash
gently, but thoroughly, pu-
rify, refine, and exfoliate
your skin. The stylish tube
with the great-looking
font is an added bonus.
C. pearl aCe hotel
soap $24 acehotel.com
Is there anything more
enticing than black
soap? Let this beautiful
small-batch soap that
has charcoal, crushed
natural pearls (yes,
pearls!), and natural oils
protect your skin from
the harsh summer sun.
gel Cleanser $21
kiehls.com
d
No matter how thirsty
you might be after a day
under the summer sun,
don’t drink this cocktail-
colored gel cleanser.
Instead, use it to wash off
b the dirt and grime that
is unavoidable when you
spend a hot day in the city.
e. BumBle & BumBle
c texture hair Creme $26
bumbleandbumble.com
This is what your sum-
mer hair should look like:
piece-y, tousled, undone,
and easy. As if you have
spent all day at the beach,
making sand castles and
jumping in the waves.
With this clever creme
you can have those sexy
waves anytime, and no
sand in your shoes!

16 playground SUMMER 2011

 f

F. Sarah Chapman
SkineSiS FaCial From
SpaCe nk
$89 spacenk.com
If you told us that this
high-tech overnight se-
rum was actually brought
to earth by aliens, we
would believe it. We
would also bet that those
aliens had unbelievably
soft and youthful-looking
g skin, which is what you
will have once you start
using it. It may even let
you to go makeup-free all
summer long.

G. DeerStop BotaniCalS
SanDalwooD roSe
rejuvenatinG miSt $28
thisiswherethedeerstop.org
When you have been out
all day slogging through
g
the city’s hot summer
streets, you need help
to feel beautiful and re-
freshed. This delightful
mist is like a nap, a bath
and a change of clothes in
just one spritz!
h
h. DeerStop BontaniCalS
vata FaCe CleanSer $28
thisiswherethedeerstop.org
The ingredients in this
Ayurvedic face cleanser
would probably make a
delicious summer salad:
organic lentils, nutmeg,
comfrey root and lemon
verbena leaves. Here, they
bring equilibrium and
enlightenment to your
daily ablutions.

playGrounD SUMMER 2011 17

 fitness

put up your dukes! it’s easy to be a knockout at Punch Fitness Center by Zibby Right
Illustrations by Daniel Fishel

18 playground summer 2011

 323 EAST 50TH STREET

You’ll be happy in this perfectly renovated,historic prewar,

cooperative triplex townhouse located at 323 East 50th Street
Townhouse Apartment. Stroll through one of your two private
gardens and you’ll find yourself in an large eat-in kitchen, which
evolves into the oversized living room, while harvesting
views limited to just your green thumb.
PRICED AT $2,195,000.

W. DOUG MCCULLOUGH
917-693-5363
 fitness
d
on’t just
call it a
workout.
Punch Fit-
ness Center
is a trans-
formative experience led
by Adelino Da Costa from
Guinea, West Africa. Da
Costa, who started off as a
champion kick-boxer in Por-
tugal, despite having only a
mattress to practice with, saw
an opportunity in the crowded
Manhattan fitness market and de-
cided to take advantage.
Da Costa had relocated to New
York City from Portugal because,
as he says, “if you want to find your-
self and know if you can do it or not,
this is the place.” Soon after his move to the
Big Apple, Da Costa began training clients in
what he knew how to do best—kickboxing. He
began by working individually with clients,
but quickly found his client base growing and
decided to open a gym. The gym, Da Costa
decided, would meld aspects of one-on-one
personal training with the energy of group
fitness. And Punch Fitness was born.
Punch’s entrance, on Madison Avenue
and 78th Street, is marked solely by a pair
of red punching gloves, swaying in the cool
breeze. After walking down a short flight
of steps, the vibe grabs you. The walls are a
deep red, which Da Costa says invokes the
feeling of strength: “You can’t like the color
red and be lazy; it’s the color that makes me
want to push all the time.”
A fit woman checks in at the desk and
asks, “Who am I with today?” At Punch, ev-
ery session is an hour long with a different
trainer. “Nelson,” the receptionist says and
the woman’s face falls. “Oh no!” she wails,
20 playground summer 2011
knowing how difficult the session will be.
Difficult is an understatement. This non-
stop cardio-kickboxing mix makes run-
ning the loop in Central Park look like a
warm-up. Regulars will find themselves
jumping rope, doing push-ups, using rowing
machines, running on a treadmill, punch-
ing and jabbing, kicking and squatting. And
don’t even think about having a glass of
water. (Apparently, every time you finish
eating or drinking your body goes in relax-
ation mode. In boxing, Da Costa says, you
have to stay sharp all the time; “to be able
to achieve, you have to get to the point you
never knew you were able to.”)
“The day you feel in shape in this place,
you should not come back,” he said with
his characteristic bright eyes, low melodic
voice and wide grin. “Some people say they
never work out and you have to pace them. I
don’t want to sit back and say you’re doing a
good job. Life is not about that. Life is about
keep trying. Life is about being
challenged. If you don’t want
to be in shape, don’t come
to Punch. I’m going to help
you to get there. And the
day I see you can give more,
I’ll push you until the next
level.”
Hard to argue with that.
But at $145 per hour, Punch
isn’t cheap; however you
get days worth of cardio and
strength-training in one session.
The best part? It’s fun. The train-
ers dance around barefoot on the
padded floors, belting out African beats
and music. They dance with you. It feels
like the tight Punch team is having a blast
and that the party will continue long after
you leave.
Da Costa says his team is the key to
Punch’s success. When he recruits talent,
he doesn’t care about technical skills; he
can teach those. He’s looking for guys who
really care, whose eyes shine, who have the
freedom to express themselves. Having the
rotating training schedule allows clients to
experience a different emotion and momen-
tum in the same form.
Punch has plans to open two new loca-
tions in the city. With a fairly equal male to
female ratio and clients ranging from age
five to senior citizens, this place is not to
be missed.
“The way people feel is so important,” Da
Costa says. “If I want to challenge you, I
have to make you feel good inside yourself.
That feeling is distraction from the pain.
You feel the music, you feel the energy
around you, you want to prove yourself. You
always have to see the victory before the
fight, that’s why we’re here for you.”
Fitness mixed with heart is a pure knockout.
Icing on The Cake NYC
Dylan Lauren cutting into
her custom-made cake at
Dylan’s Candy Bar.
Every cake is made to
order; that means you
can be sure that your
cake is fresh and
delicious every time!

We will design a
one-of-a-kind
custom cake for your
special occasion.

Call Leslie for your free estimate.

(347) 604-3309
icingonthecakenyc.com

We also make cupcakes!

 Food
Food Festivals
With Your Gourmet-In-Training
All for the price of one: Celeb chefs, yummy food and stunning scenery by Rachel Felder
I
nevitably, most kids love watching TV,
but not every child is glued nonstop to
Nickolodeon and PBS Kids. For a grow-
ing number of children, Rachael Ray and
Jamie Oliver are bigger celebrities than
SpongeBob and Selena Gomez, and they’d
choose to see an Iron Chef rerun over iCarly
any day.
If this describes your little one, then head-
ing to an out-of-town food festival is an ideal
weekend retreat.
With the popularity of the Food Network
and the snowballing awareness of celebrity
22 playground summer 2011
chefs, food festivals are cropping up around
the world throughout the year. They’re an ide-
al way for your budding gourmand and you to
see favorite chefs in action and of course taste
some delicious food. Many also include a char-
ity component, so you can help make a differ-
ence (and remind the kids of the importance of
giving) while you’re there.
One of the best-known food festivals in the
country is the South Beach Wine and Food
Festival, held in Miami Beach every year. The
festival has been going for more than a decade
and attracts the world’s best-known chefs.
There is a wonderful two-day event specifi-
cally for kids that focuses on healthy eating
and features chefs like Rachael Ray and Guy
Fieri.
At smaller and newer food festivals, it can be
even easier to actually meet your favorite chefs
and see what’s going on. In The Cayman Is-
lands, for example, Le Bernadin’s Eric Ripert
hosts an annual food festival each January, the
Cayman Cookout, where it’s not uncommon
RiccaRdo Savi
to enjoy barbecue alongside the likes of An-
thony Bourdain. The festival is headquartered
at the islands’ Ritz-Carlton Hotel, which has
 Food

extensive children’s activities, and there’s also feed the hungry. In mid-June is the Big Apple clockwise from left
a special kids’ brunch each year to make your BBQ, a huge barbecue-o-rama that’s a perfect Meet, greet and eat!
Take the family to a food
little one feel like a VIP. Food festivals geared Flatiron afternoon with the kids (provided festival to meet celebrity
toward kids exist in other great destinations that they like ribs! This event is also a fund- chefs, watch demonstra-
such as Atlanta, Napa and Pebble Beach. raiser. Throughout the year, there are smaller tions and taste new and
delicious foods.
There are also several food festivals right fairs like Taste of Tribeca, which are an ideal
here in New York City. The most compre- way for kids to taste a variety of things they Just enough cooks in this
hensive is the New York City Wine and Food might otherwise not get to try. kitchen: Giada De Lauren-
tiis flashes her famous
Festival (this year’s dates are Sept 29-October The best part of all these festivals — in addi- smile while demonstrat-
2), organized by the same people as the South tion to helping your kids eat more adventur- ing how to prepare her
Beach fest. This festival always includes cook- ously and healthily — is getting to spend time favorite dishes.

ing demonstrations aimed at kids,and all net outdoors with your little ones. Mario Batali drinks to
proceeds from the event are earmarked to good food.

playground summer 2011 23

 FASHION

Stefani Greenfield and

Desiree Gruber love
the process of creating
new items for their line
Theodora and Callum.

DESIGNER GOODS
Find Your Inspiration at Theodora and Callum by Charlotte Garden

Y
ou use your mother’s red and navy
Gucci clutch from the 70s as a wal-
let and you wear your grandmoth-
er’s Haskell earrings from the 50s
on occasions that call for them. You cherish
these passed down items and frequently catch
yourself wondering, Which items of mine is my
daughter going to want and wear?
This is the very thought process that fuels
Stefani Greenfield, co-founder of Theodora
and Callum, which made its formal debut
at Spring Fashion Week 2011. Stefani previ-
ously co-founded the incredibly popular retail
chain, Scoop NYC, which became a favorite of
the young and trendy from New York to Holly-
wood with its reputation as the “ultimate clos-
et.” She’s been featured in too many fashion
and business magazines to count, was a judge
on Bravo’s television series Launch My Line, a
regular style consultant on national television
programs and hosts Unwracked on the Home
Shopping Network.
Her latest project, Theodora and Callum, is
an accessory-focused store that she and co-
founder, Desiree Gruber like to think of as a
“creative factory.”
“It’s not about chasing trends,” Stefani said.
“The collection will always consist of items
that we both love and want to share.” This was
in fact the inspiration behind the name.Theo-
dora being Stefani’s daughter and Callum,
Desiree’s son.
“There are no limitations to the evolu-
tion of the brand,” she said. “That’s why we
named it after our children. For them every
day is a new journey.”

24 PLAYGROUND SUMMER 2011

 FASHION

A blue leaf batik scarf is a perfect addition

to any summer outfit. Gold Istanbul earrings
dress up any ensemble.

According to Stefani, this latest venture is
very much a labor of love. Every piece in their
new collection is an objet d’art, carefully cho-
sen to be an item that lasts for generations and
never goes out of style. The line is the quintes-
sential essence of classic taste and style, cre-
ated by two power-moms who embody these
qualities in their own lives. The exotic prints
and eclectic nature of Theodora and Callum
reflect the adventurous, sexy, international
traveler in all of us. Their jewelry and scarves
are reminiscent of Brigitte Bardot on the
beaches of St. Tropez circa 1968 and the rest of
the effortlessly chic European jet set. But the
design element of this creative factory doesn’t
stop when it leaves their fingertips. The duo
hopes the buyer and wearer of the items will
bring their own creative spirit to it.
Stefani’s daughter Theodora loves being
the inspiration behind her mother’s ambi-
tion. When asked how she balances work and
home life, Stefani says she works hard during
Theodora’s school year and relaxes during the
summer in Europe. The time she spends en
vacance, as the French say, is truly the most
precious family time she has all year. During
these hot summer months she finally has a
moment to recharge her batteries and inhale
new inspiration from the Mediterranean
coast, Morocco, India and the modern Byzan-
tine empire.
She has truly found a way to manage a suc-
cessful and demanding professional life with
carefree, quality time. And all of it—the am-
bition and the freedom—are apparent in the
pieces created by Theodora and Callum.

PLAYGROUND SUMMER 2011 25

HOT-TO-TOT

Summer Uniform
IN Wide-legged

SUMMER
white Siwys
OUT Last year’s
faded khakis

IN THE CITY
The ultimate guide to what’s in and out
for families this summer by Rachel Felder

W hether you’re looking for a fabulous warm

weather accessory, great outfits for the kid,
or a thank you present for a weekend spent at
Kids’ protective
eyewear
IN Gucci kids’
your friend’s beach house, we’ve got you covered. shades, $140
Here are our picks for the best essentials—and OUT Spongebob
a few deliciously indulgent non-essen- sunglasses, 2 pairs
tials—for the long, hot summer ahead. for $10.40

Beach necessity:
Pedicure polish
IN Sunbow bubblegum
Ultimate Hamptons du jour
scented sunblock
hostess gift IN RGB in Coral
OUT Bubble gum pink
IN Lalique OUT All shades of
bikini
Sauterelles vase (summertime) blues
OUT Chocolates and a
Potentially difficult
bottle of Sauternes Tween clothing you’d
exercise: love to borrow:
IN Headstands in IN Summer dresses
P.E. class from Johnnie b
OUT Dealing with stand- OUT Butter sweatshirts
still traffic on the LIE in
an M Class. Caffeine Connection:
Overstuffed IN Bosie Tea Parlour
Mini-me beach-to- OUT Coffee from a na-
bag for airplane
party summer frock: getaways tional chain
IN Calypso for Target
IN Rimowa wheelie
braided dress Mini-chicster Matching parent/
OUT Giant logo
OUT Splurgy Calypso clothing destination child ensembles:
tote
silk dress IN Little Edit IN Daddy and son
on upper Lex Vilebrequin swimming
Bleary-eyed morning OUT The upper trunks
ritual shelf of big OUT Mommy and me
IN Getting to the camp sister’s closet print shift dresses
bus stop on time
OUT Getting to the Healthy kids’ snack
school bus stop on time IN Steamed fresh, local
corn on the cob
ALL IMAGES COURTESY OF THE MANUFACTURERS

Mom’s relaxing OUT Freshly popped

indulgence organic popcorn
IN A weekend at the
ELLE Spa at the Eden Required summer
Roc, Miami Beach reading:
OUT A bubble bath read- IN The Time-Traveling
ing ELLE and eating Fashionista
snacks from Garden of OUT Sisterhood of the
Eden in Manhattan Traveling Pants

26 PLAYGROUND SUMMER 2011

 Memory-inducing
seasonal soundtrack
IN “Summer Babe”
-Pavement Climate-
OUT “Boys of Summer” appropriate footwear
-Don Henley IN Missoni for
Havaianas flip-flops
OUT Hunter rubber
rain boots

Shampoo for
the Little Ones
Seasonal IN L’Oreal Professionnel
stockup store: Serie Nature Tendresse
IN Lesters for Shampoo,
everything for camp bought at a salon
OUT Hamptons OUT No More Tears,
supermarket for bought at K-Mart in Airplane essentials
everything for Bridgehampton IN Audio-Technica
weekend houseguests noise-cancelling head-
phones and Sjal Intense
Scorching day cooler: Hydration Creme
IN Molton Brown OUT A blow-up neck
Vitalising Gel pillow and eye-mask
OUT Large Pinkberry
with multiple toppings

mind over matter

A fit and healthy lifestyle for you and your baby is our goal,
then we help you get back to your pre-pregnancy figure!

The pre-natal and post-partum workout trainers will

• Prep your body for an easier & quicker labor & delivery
• Offer useful tips for dealing with common pregnancy complications
• Boost your immune system
• Aid in quicker postpartum recovery
Ask about our
We also offer Yoga, Pilates, MILF (Mothers
Personal Trainers, & Boot Camp Classes Interested in
Living Fit)
Boot Camp!

www.MindOverMatterNYC.com • 212-865-9290

PLAYGROUND SUMMER 2011 27

 books

PeoPle Watching
at its best
Skinny By Diana Spechler

“
C
hoice is a disease of your generation. You’re so fo-
cused on your choices. You’re overwhelmed by
them, terrified of them, so you do things like become
ski bums or glassblowers or you extend your youths
so long, you forget to have children.”
This is the kind of self-esteem–blowing stuff that flies out of the
mouth of Gray Lachmann’s father, driving her into a mess of middle-
class, twentysomething angst.
Not that Gray’s father is any sort of icon for good choices. He’s an
obese, guilt-driven attorney-turned-rabbi who dies at a relatively
young age, carrying a maddeningly secret story and depression to his
grave. He’s also the person whom Gray—Skinny’s narrative main char-
acter—is most influenced by, and designs her life around, hence the
novel’s plot.
And the plot is quite thick. Gray, a New Yorker who earns a living by
promoting her boyfriend’s struggling standup comedy career, inherits
a nasty habit of compulsively overeating—say, several cakes under her
bed covers or 5,000 calories of greasy Chinese food in one go. Bing-
ing is the way she deals with the death of— and troubled relationship
with—her father, whom she hadn’t communicated with in several
years after he denounced her relationship with Gray’s unsuccessful,
non-Jewish boyfriend.
Upon executing her father’s will, Gray learns that her father left
money to a mysterious Southern woman and her teenage daughter,
Eve. Gray assumes the woman was her father’s mistress, and, as a re-
sult, that Eve is her teenage half-sister. After doing some shoddy Goo-
gling and blog reading, Gray figures out that Eve is headed to a North

Your Life on Yoga

Claire Dederer’s inspiring,
engaging, elegantly written
memoir Poser: My Life in
Twenty-Three Yoga Poses
is, without a doubt, the best
book I’ve read in years.
Don’t be fooled—this is not
a book about yoga. Yoga is
simply the theme that ties
all the elements together
gracefully; the book itself
flows as seamlessly as a
vinyasa yoga class, each
chapter touching on a dif-
ferent pose. This tome is
about growing up and com-
ing of age as both a mother
and a daughter. It’s about
learning how to be married,
despite each other’s imper-
fections. It’s about finding
yourself while still giving.
It’s about learning that be-
ing “good” or “perfect” is
the opposite of simply be-
ing “real.”
Dederer takes us through
her parents’ separation
in the 1970s and links her
mother’s actions to the gen-
erational shift away from
traditional marriage toward
women’s independence.
She roots her life in history
in a way that makes it all
feel incredibly important;
it’s impossible not to re-
examine your own role and
what it means. Yet she does
this with charm and a hilari-
ous sense of humor, never
taking herself too seriously
throughout her Seattle and
Boulder adventures.
Be forewarned; this book
is meaty. You won’t finish
it overnight. But once you
start, you won’t be able to
put it down. Every word is
there for a reason in this
artfully-edited work.
This book changed my
perspective on life. Plus
I’m totally going to take
up yoga.
—Zibby Right

28 playground summer 2011


Carolina fat camp for the summer. In the hopes of working through her food
obsession and daddy issues, Gray promptly scores a gig as a fat-camp coun-
selor at said camp, placing her New York life on hold for the summer.
What results is a disturbingly humorous adventure full of girl fights, not-
quite-truth-tellings, cliff-hangers, and sweaty summer-camp lust. And it’s
quite enjoyable, so long as you’re cool with not rooting for the story’s main
character.
Gray makes one bad choice after another, and instead of establishing a
meaningful relationship with Eve, masterminds an affair with a hot, older
personal trainer, thereby cheating on her boyfriend of five years. She also
develops anorexia, a bald spot, and extreme body consciousness—heart-
shaped pubic hair included.
Whether or not Skinny has a happy ending, what makes the story legiti-
mate, relevant, and fulfilling is the fact that it’s based on truth. In a brief
afterword, Diana Spechler, also the author of Who by Fire, explains that
Skinny is based on personal experience. In 2006, she set out to write a novel
about body-image problems, inspired by her own lifelong weight struggles,
and really did go “undercover” as a counselor at a North Carolina weight-
loss facility.
Spechler, doesn’t, however, overshare about which parts of her real-life ex-
perience actually happened and which characters actually existed. Instead,
she writes, “Although many of the characters in Skinny were inspired by real
people, they are, like most fictional characters, composites—combinations of
more than one person, some invented elements, and pieces of the author.”
Those composites are perhaps Skinny’s strongest element. From Bennett,
the 41-year-old trainer with the body of a brick sh*thouse to Sheena, the
19-year-old counselor warrior, the cast of characters makes for some seri-
ously entertaining literary people-watching. —Amy Schroeder
books
Bossypants
Why the world has Tina Fey-ver
From the moment I sat down with
this book, I knew I was going to like
it. It’s one of those reads where the
pages fly by, and all of a sudden pub-
lic transportation is a treat, waiting in
line at the post office is a blessing and
even time spent “powdering ones’
nose” takes on a new Zen quality.
In Bossypants, Fey lays out the
timeline of her life thus far, touching on her childhood and the
story and meaning behind a prevalent facial scar I never even
noticed, spanning across her own coming of age, her adventures
getting hired and working on Saturday Night Live, and into the
present day, where she elaborates on running the cult hit TV
show 30 Rock. Some rest stops along the way include finding
strength and inspiration from the fabulous gays she met in com-
munity theater, lessons she learned from SNL producer Lorne
Michaels and, of course, being a mother.
At a recent Barnes and Noble talk in Union Square, she
churned out thoughtful and amusing answers to New Yorker
editor David Remnick’s questions, making it clear why the room
was packed with hipsters, goth teens, sophisticated grey hairs
and all types infected with Tina Fey-ver. Two teenagers photo-
graphed, filmed and Tweeted throughout the event, stopping
every so often to squeal, “I just can’t believe it!” as if Tina were
John Lennon or Princess Diana returned from the grave.
Bossypants is a written testimony of Fey’s experiences on
the path from the bottom of the barrel to the top of the rock.
People, especially women, won’t be able to help but be moved
by her words in this book; laughing while their inner monologue
exclaims, “It’s funny ‘cause it’s true,” and “I’ve been there, sister.”
Fey’s writing moves like a warm breeze—it’s abstract while also
fine-tuned; clever yet aloof, and so specific; revealing an insider’s
view into the sometimes very unfunny business of comedy,
something that most people will never truly get a window into.
As a comedian, I have definitely experienced the trying strug-
gle of the comedy world, and found this book to be a guiding
light; the hermit’s lantern, if you will. I swore I saw secret encour-
agements sprinkled throughout the pages.
But whether you’re a comedian or a scientist or you’re not re-
ally sure what you are, this book was written for the millions of
women who are living life in a man’s world and looking for a little
encouragement. Something tells me that if I were to read Bossy-
pants backwards it would say, “Keep going, you’re a hard work-
ing woman, and you deserve it all.” Well, that’s what I gathered
from reading it forward, anyway. —Jessica Delfino
playground summer 2011 29
 food
making dessert
even sweeter
One Company Strives for Perfection by Zibby Right
C
hloe Epstein, a former lawyer and
Upper East Side mom of three, just
wasn’t happy with the selection of
frozen treats for herself and her kids. Calo-
rie and ingredient-conscious, Epstein didn’t
want to keep ingesting oodles of chemicals in
exchange for a ‘light’ treat. Neither did entre-
preneur and tri-athlete Michael Sloan who
craved something sweet that worked with
his athletic lifestyle. So two summers ago,
the close friends started playing around with
a Cuisinart and a bunch of fruit to see what
they could come up with. Luckily for all of
us, they struck gold and Soft Serve Fruit was
born. Along with Chloe’s husband, Jason, they
launched the business together.
“The most important thing to us is trust,” Ep-
30 playground summer 2011
stein says, perched on a bright yellow striped
stool at a high silver table at the Soft Serve
Fruit Company store (formerly Simply Peeled)
at 78th Street and Third Avenue. “We want
everyone to know what he or she is eating. All
the ingredients are right there in front of you.
We did all the calorie testing to make sure we
were accurate and were thrilled at how good
it tasted.”
The fruit stand vibe at Soft Serve Fruit Com-
pany even makes ordering fun. Jagged wood
slabs bear the painted names of the flavors:
strawberry, banana, mango, apple and their
newest addition, pear. Smoothie names like
the popular PBJC (banana soft serve fruit, hot
peanut butter, chocolate chips, bananas and
strawberries) are etched below, along with
favorites like the Crunch Salty Sundae—banan-
as, pretzels, hot peanut butter and chocolate
chips. Fun, quirky, scratch-and-sniff banana
wallpaper covers the walls and makes you feel
like you’re somewhere tropical and relaxing,
not in the middle of the hustle and bustle.
“We wanted to have fun with it and make
it a place for adults and kids alike,” Epstein
explains. “Snacks seems to be on the brain for
kids 24/7. At two, my children were demand-
ing, ‘Snack, mommy?’ It’s a constant battle. But
if you can have something in your arsenal that
they’ll love and get excited about and deem a
treat and you feel okay about it, that’s great!”
Even kids who would never eat fruit at home
wolf this down—they think it’s ice cream. The
pretty colors and fun choice of flavors make
even the littlest customers loyal.
Made with only pure fruit, filtered water and
a touch of organic cane sugar (just enough to
ensure the proper consistency), this 90-calorie
confection is guilt-free for both kids and adults.
Even the unusual toppings are “safe” bets like
organic cereals (Barbara’s Puffins are a big hit),
wasabi peas, gluten-free cookies, chips and sal-
sa, marshmallows, soy nuts, agave, cinnamon,
and, of course, tons of fresh fruit. No toppings
contain high fructose corn syrup.
Those with food allergies can also relax. The
soft serve fruit is dairy-free, gluten-free and
nut-free, plus cholesterol and fat-free. The top-
pings are arranged to be allergy sensitive as well
so the nuts are kept together and away from the
fruit toppings. Allergy victims who have been
“suffering their whole lives without a frozen
treat” can finally enjoy one, Epstein says.
And for adults, try mixing the soft serve
mango into a margarita or the cranberry into
a martini for a grown-up treat. Scoop straw-
berry over mixed berries for a dinner party –
just take the pints out of the freezer 10 minutes
before serving.
The Soft Serve Fruit Company is just begin-
ning their dessert revolution. Look for a second
downtown location soon, plus a presence in the
Hamptons this summer.
Be sure to try this incredible, sweet,
healthy treat—just make sure to give some to
your kids, too.
P.S. They deliver!
 Whether you’ve had a baby and bought a new car, or now have a teenager
on the road, your insurance should keep up with your life. Call today for
a free review to help you decide what protection is right for you.

BARBARA A. GRIMALDI
(212) 759 3920
227 EAST 56TH ST
NEW YORK
BGrimaldi@allstate.com

Appointments to fit your schedule.

17

Insurance subject to availability and qualifications.Allstate Insurance Company and Allstate Property and Casualty Insurance Company, Northbrook, Illinois © 2009 Allstate Insurance Company.
AstroLogy
editor’s
Letter
momscopes
Aries Summer has a sophis-
ticated flair this year. Orga-
nize your budget around cul-
turally enriching activities for
the family: art classes, music camp, learning
about locally-grown food (how about a day
trip to Stone Barns?). July’s eclipse brings a
final round of change to home and family—
moving, renovations or even a surprise preg-
nancy could be in the cards. Avoid the play-
ground drama queens and catty Hamptons
gossips in August.
Taurus Your luckiest year in
over a decade begins June 4th,
when expansive Jupiter enters
Taurus. You’re at the start of a
12-year cycle, so leave any troubles behind
and start fresh. In June, two eclipses high-
light money; you could start a new job or sell
property. Book those beach trips either in July
or over Labor Day. With tricky Mercury ret-
rograde in your family sector August 2-26, flat
tires and cranky kids could spoil the fun.
Gemini Quit that manic mul-
titasking—this summer is about
slowing doing and enjoying the
moment. Bliss out at yoga, or try a
dance-inspired class like Qoya (www.wisewil-
dfree.com). A Gemini solar eclipse June 1st
puts your personal desires and values in the
spotlight. What legacy do you want to leave on
the world, and for your kids? Give your relation-
ship some care and feeding at the June 15th
full moon eclipse. Any issue can be solved with
open, honest dialogue.
Cancer Your summer is filled
with fascinating new friends, and
the chance to make a difference
in the world. Get on the board of a
nonprofit or volunteer for a charity fundraiser
committee. It’s a great way to meet great con-
tacts and express your creativity. The July 1st
Cancer solar eclipse puts the spotlight on you
32 playground summer 2011
By the AstroTwins, Ophira & TaliEdut
and your good deeds. Save your pennies for Au-
gust, when an unexpected expense could crimp
your back-to-school budget.
Leo Your name is on the top of
every who’s-who list, both socially
and professionally. You can’t say
that you mind the attention, Leo.
After all, you’ve worked hard to
earn this reputation. Ride the wave
until August, then take a long birthday vaca-
tion while Mercury goes retrograde in Leo—a
time when your confidence could be mistaken
for ego. A surprise pregnancy is possible at the
lunar eclipse July 15th.
Virgo Just because school’s out
doesn’t mean the learning has to
stop. Enroll your family in “the
school of life” this summer. Ex-
pand your horizons through travel, museums,
or learning a new language together. The cul-
tural immersion can include ethnic cooking,
dining, and other forms of “edu-tainment.” The
June 15th lunar eclipse could bring a move or an
addition to the family. Get extra rest in August
and don’t let someone guilt-trip you into taking
on more than you can handle.
Libra You’re feeling more
private than usual, and for
once, you just might skip
those “step-and-repeat”
photo ops that land you on the society
pages every summer. Leap at the chance
for some unexpected travel in June, which
might even take you abroad. In July, a solar
eclipse heats up your career. Loose lips
sink ships while Mercury is retrograde in
August. Zip it with the oversharing unless
you want to feed the gossip pages—not
quite the publicity you had in mind.
Scorpio Put some energy
into your marriage this sum-
mer. How about a romantic
trip overseas while the kids
go to camp or stay with their grandpar-
ents? In July, review your budget and long-term
financial plans. A few adjustments can keep the
kids in private school or save you serious tax
dollars. You could also put an offer on a home or
list yours on the market. Work can be challeng-
ing in August, so avoid the office…or at least, the
office politics.
Sagittarius This summer you
could get into the best shape of your
life. Explore the city’s fitness classes,
or join a charity event like Team in
Training or Walk for the Cure. The June 15th Sagit-
tarius lunar eclipse brings a peak moment of per-
sonal triumph. No more martyr mommy; it’s time to
focus on yourself. Mercury retrograde could make
August a bumpy time for travel, so hit the Hamp-
tons in June and July instead.
Capricorn You’re feeling flirty
and playful this summer, and the
happiness energizes your whole
family. Passion reawakens in your
marriage, too. With Jupiter in your fertility
zone, you could be “pregnant in heels” before
you know it! Connect with your deepest de-
sires, Capricorn. Recommended beach reading:
 SouvenarteBooks

Pamela Madsen’s Shameless: How I Ditched

the Diet, Got Naked, Found True Pleasure…and

Remembering the Art of Childhood

Somehow Got Home In Time to Cook Dinner.

Aquarius Nomadic no more!

You’re unusually domestic this
summer as planets crowd into We preserve your child’s artwork
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playground summer 2011 33

 HeALTHY
eATING

DoN’T LeT
pLAY DATes
DrIve You
bANANAs!
Corral the kids into the kitchen
by Cricket Azima

I
t is no small feat to host a play date for
children that is fun, weather-proof, eco-
nomically conscious, practical and keeps
the kids engaged in a way that retains
their curiosity and attention. Here are some
flavorful ideas for keeping the kids enter-
tained and their tummies full – while also
keeping your sanity and home intact.

Cooking is an art….and a
craft project!
Like the nature of any craft, it’s satisfying
to see a project through from start to finish.
When cooking with children, offer a selec-
tion of recipes or ingredient ideas and let the
kids choose. Involve the children in every
safe and logical aspect of the process, from
washing the fresh ingredients to cleaning
the kitchen when the activity is complete.
Let the kids participate creatively and inde-
pendently – even if that means things wind
up looking a little different than you had in-
tended. The more the children are involved,
the more likely they will actually eat the
final product as well. This holds true even
when the recipe includes infamously intimi-
dating foods!
keep little hands busy for the duration of
the activity, as it’s often challenging to wait
patiently to eat what is being made. Or keep
it simple and choose a recipe that doesn’t
necessitate any down time, such as the Silly-
Lookin’ Sandwich recipe below. Even quick
and easy snacks can be fun for kids to make
and solves the problem of what to feed them
during the visit—think trail mixes with
flavored popcorn, or berry mosaics atop a
Graham cracker smeared with cream cheese.
Step by Step
Kids love owning even the tiniest of jobs,
such as tearing herbs or holding the bowl to
prevent a spill. Success at these tasks builds
self-confidence and excitement for the activ-
ity. Ingredients can be broken down into sizes
simply be kept busy) by holding the measur-
ing spoon while an adult pours the ingredient.
While cooking, sew in fun facts and cultural
tid-bits to make the activity more relatable
and to further engage the children. Depend-
ing on the recipe and the age of the children,
conversations can include art, nutrition,
math, language arts, social science, geog-
raphy, history and more. For example, you
can count how many colors are in the recipe;
talk about how and where ingredients grow;
incorporate math (the basis of every recipe);
play music or learn words from the origin
country of the dish.
Encourage the kids to follow steps of the
recipe together, take turns, share and cook
as a team, working toward the shared goal of
making a yummy dish.
getty; alana g. kelly

that are easier for little hands to manage. Kids are so proud of what they make—and
The “right” recipe With supervision, children can use a plastic as a parent, you can feel comfortable and con-
Almost any recipe can be turned into a kid- knife to cut most fruits and vegetables with fident that the time spent in your home was
friendly one. Consider making recipes that ease. Even the youngest child can help (or time well spent—having fun in a delicious way!

34 playground summer 2011

 Mandarin Immersion Camp
AGES 2 - 10 • BEGINNERS WELCOME • 2-WEEK SESSIONS

Silly-Lookin’
Sandwich
Mix up your sandwich! For a fun twist
on Panzanella (an Italian bread salad)
enlist the help of your child and prepare HIGH-ENERGY THEMES. 100% MANDARIN
this delicious dish.
Cooking | Planting | Field Trips | Experiments | More!
ServeS 8

1 small loaf unsliced whole-wheat bread 212-787-8088

1 lb. fresh mozzarella 175 Riverside Blvd at 68th Street
4 small tomatoes
4 stalks celery
www.bilingualbudsnyc.com
1 seedless cucumber
1 green pepper
1 red pepper

Summer’s here!
1 red onion, optional
½ cup fresh basil leaves
olive oil, to taste

Let’s go out and play.

Balsamic vinegar, to taste
Salt and pepper, to taste

*If you want to add protein: add a 1 cup

cubed cooked chicken breast, diced
salami or other deli meat, canned tuna, Craft Hour Thursdays
ursdays
da
days
yss
or white beans as a tasty addition to
this dish.
::00
00 pm
Starting at 5:00 m
Thank you for shopping
ping
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locally.
o
1. Cut (or tear) bread into 1” cubes and
place in a large mixing bowl.
2. Dice mozzarella, tomatoes, celery,
cucumber, peppers, and onion and add
to the bowl.
3. Tear basil into small pieces and add
to the bowl.
4. Adding a small amount at a time,
stir in olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt,
and pepper until the desired taste is 60 West 15th Street, NYC 10011
achieved. Mix ingredients together well 212.645.6337
and eat. Coming Soon:
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Cricket Azima is Founder & Big
Cheese of The Creative Kitchen
(thecreativekitchen.com) a company
specializing in cooking with and for 507 Bloomfield Ave, Montclair, NJ 07042
children. She is also the author of the 973.233.9444
kids’ cookbook, Everybody Eats Lunch.

playground summer 2011 35

 real
estate

no Sleep till Brooklyn!

More and More Families Moving to the Borough That Has It All by Rachel H. Smith

A
dmit it. You have been thinking
The Toren: A
new angle on about moving to Brooklyn. Who
Brooklyn living. hasn’t? Any young mom who saw
Miranda’s Brooklyn brownstone
on Sex and the City has thought
it over. As real estate agent Omari Toomer from
Citi Habitats notes, “I’m sure it’s not the first time
you’ve heard it, but a lot of families are moving to
Brooklyn.” Betsy Hoffman, a real estate agent at
Brennan Realty Services, agrees. “It was never a
destination and now it is. With all of the amenities
around, it’s a real destination now. And there are
so many real communities, too.”
Indeed, Brooklyn is wonderful. It has everything
a New York family could want: great public and
private schools, easy transportation, amazing
museums, gorgeous parks, fantastic restaurants,
and a wealth of unique cultural offerings. And the
location couldn’t be better. Hoffman sums it up:
“Brooklyn has so much to offer: Prospect Park,
BAM, great food. And it’s so easy to travel within
the borough.”
For all these reasons, Brooklyn is bursting with
young, hip families. It is a place that young parents
can really make their own. Hoffman explains,
“There are so many great communities of young
moms around. And you know what I’ve found is
if the neighborhood doesn’t have something, the
moms all rally together and they will create it.
There are a lot of self-starters in Brooklyn.”
So what do you need to know before you pull up
stakes and move across the East River? How do
you figure out where in Brooklyn is right for you?
How much time do you need to find the perfect
home? And what will the perfect home look like
for your family?

Step 1
Explore the Neighborhoods
The best way to find your perfect new home in
Brooklyn is to get out and explore all Brooklyn
has to offer. Brooklyn is close to Manhattan, but it
can also feel like a different universe. So take your
time. Get to know the neighborhoods. Ride dif-
ferent trains. Eat in all kinds of restaurants. Sit in

36 playground summer 2011

 Always the BEST parties

a variety of parks. And as you do so, imagine your

life there. Notice what places speak to you and feel
like home. Betsy Hoffman explains, “Sometimes
people who are looking to move from Manhattan
come to us and they say, ‘I know I want to move my
family to Brooklyn, but I don’t know where exactly.
Where do I start?’ When that happens, we like to
do a walking tour of the neighborhoods. And we
figure out what trains they need to ride to work.
And if a fast commute is important to them, on a
Birthday Parties, Toys and Gifts,
specific train line, then you know which neighbor- Candy, Walk-in Art
hoods to focus on.” Workshops, Special Events
This kind of fun, on-the-ground reconnaissance
is a must. As Hoffman notes, “Each neighborhood
talks to people differently. Sometimes people go
into it thinking they want to live in one specific
area. But then they explore a little and they actu-
ally like another area better.”
As you make your way around Brooklyn, pay
attention to the little things that make a neigh-
borhood feel special to you. You want to live in a
neighborhood that has a vibe you like; whether
that comes from the cute kid’s clothes boutique
on the corner, a non-chain coffee shop across the
street, or a supermarket that carries your favor-
ite brand of artisanal salty caramel ice cream. In
Hoffman’s experience, “Each neighborhood has its
own little flavor. Something speaks to somebody
and all of a sudden—It’s this neighborhood! I love
this pizza shop!”

STEP 2
Spend Plenty of Time Looking
for the Right Home
Choosing the right neighborhood is critical for
a move to Brooklyn, but that is only part of the
process. You also have to invest time into finding
the perfect place. Moving to Brooklyn can be a big
change for a family. So you want to do it right.
Give yourself a chance to look at any number of
20 Different Craft and
different places to find the one that fits the needs
of your family. Betsy Hoffman stresses this for her Candy Themed Parties, Including Craft
clients. “I’d say give yourself enough time to find Studio Classics and Hot New Projects!
the right place. It takes three months to close. So
212.831.6626
you work backwards. Figure out when you need to
be in your new home.” craftstudionyc.com
Because Brooklyn offers so many housing op- 1657 Third Avenue
tions, families need to be realistic about how ex-
tensive the search for the perfect Brooklyn abode New York, NY 10128
can be. You need to put in the time to find the per- Find us on Facebook!
fect place to raise your little ones in Brooklyn style. Follow our Tweets: CraftStudioNYC
In Omari Toomer’s experience, “A family could
look at anywhere from forty to fifty places before

PLAYGROUND SUMMER 2011 37

 NOW ENROllINg fOR SUmmER

C K O UT
CHE
EW
OUR N
WEllBetS ITEcom
school.
a
joffreyb ffreyballetschool.c
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registrar@

settling on the home for them.” His advice is
that “if you’re looking to purchase something,
you should leave anywhere from three to six
months. You never know what can arise and
it’s good to leave enough time to meet co-op
boards and have all the right walk-throughs.”
Don’t get discouraged as you look through
the wealth of Brooklyn housing options.
When you find the place that is right for you—
and your little ones—you will know it. But
before then, you will have a chance to see and
contrast all the interesting homes that Brook-
lyn has to offer.
Step 3
Choose Between an Apartment
and a Brownstone
When making your Brooklyn housing deci-
sion, most families face a difficult choice.
Should they live in an apartment or a brown-
stone? Both have their obvious charms. And
both give you more space and amenities at a
better price than you could find in Manhattan.
Brooklyn is the place for those families look-
ing to live in a beautiful home, in a wonderful
building, in a charming pocket of New York.
For example, Toomer specializes in “proper-
ties that have character or uniqueness. Small
A Landmark
residential building,
the Bell Tel Lofts.
community buildings, where each apartment
is different—some have exposed brick over
here and in another version of the apartment
it is in another area. You know, they’re each
individual. Each a little different. For me, the
real
estate
Inside the Bell
Tel Lofts living
is easy.
number one rule is: I don’t show an apartment
if I don’t like it.”
Two incredible new buildings in Down-
town Brooklyn are the Toren and the Bell
Tel Lofts. Toomer explains, “The Bell Tel
Lofts are a converted Telephone Company
headquarters. In terms of space and conve-
nience it’s great. It is like living in the city in
a sense. It’s not necessarily what you think of
when you think of Brooklyn— small streets,
a certain charm—but it’s a real happening
area and the space and the price are amaz-
ing with all of the amenities like a gym, valet
parking, and, of course, the apartments still
have charm and character. And the subway
lines—there are so many right there!”
Whether you choose a newly remodeled
apartment building or a classic Brooklyn
brownstone, you want to make the move to
Brooklyn that is right for your family. But if
you have explored the neighborhoods and
given yourself the time to find the perfect
home, the move will be a great one. For young
New York families, now is the best time to
make the leap across the Brooklyn Bridge.
Just listen to Betsy Hoffman: “It’s really true
what they say! A tree grows in Brooklyn! A
whole community grows!”
playground summer 2011 39
Getting the Host of Top Chef, co-founder of the Endometriosis
Foundation of America, cookbook author, actress

Word Out
and mom: Padma Lakshmi by Lyss Stern

photography by Cheyenne ellis

40 playground summer 2011


Susan Sarandon,
Padma Lakshmi and
Dr. Tamer Seckin.
P
adma Lakshmi is perhaps best known for hosting Bravo’s hit cooking compe-
tition show, Top Chef. In 2006, Lakshmi became the host of the show, at the
time in its second season, and helped to launch the program into television
fame. She is truly a modern day renaissance woman—a model, Emmy-nom-
inated television series host, a two-time cookbook author, jewelry designer,
philanthropist and mother. At the core of Lakshmi’s inspiring presence is her
confidence and strength. This strength is what has aided her perseverance
against her biggest adversary: endometriosis, which she suffered from for
many years. To help others who suffer from endometriosis, Lakshmi co-founded the Endometrio-
sis Foundation of America (EFA). The EFA strives to raise awareness about this condition and to
give those suffering from it a voice that was previously unheard. In fact, very few people were
even aware of this disease that affects 176 million women across the globe before Lakshmi’s cru-
sade to bring it into the public eye. It is easy to be in awe of her vast accomplishments and selfless
getty
contributions to society. I am delighted to have her as the May cover mom of Playground.
Padma
Lakshmi
How do you juggle motherhood, your thriv-
ing career and all that you do? Please give the
working moms reading this some of your tips.
I don’t know, I’m a new mother so I’m a little
reluctant to dole out advice already, but I feel
you have to be flexible and ready for anything.
Expect the unexpected. Every day is differ-
ent from the next so make a list of priorities in
your head and navigate the day’s challenges
with that in mind. Remember, your kids al-
ways come first, so do what is ultimately most
important for your family in the long run.
I know philanthropy is so important to you.
What led you to co-founding the Endometriosis
Foundation of America?
I was very galvanized by my own personal
experience. I didn’t want other women to go
through what I had because I was diagnosed
way too late and could have been saved from
years of pain and strife that affected my life in
innumerable ways. I wanted to help the next
generation of women that are battling this
disease, so they would know what I didn’t and
could at least benefit from my experience.
Why did you decide to start the project with Dr.
Tamer Seckin?
I literally owed my renewed quality of life to
this wonderfully caring and brilliant doctor.
He encouraged me to use my voice to speak
out and help other women. The readers of my
cookbooks, the young female viewers of Top
Chef, the customers who wear my jewelry, they
all stood to benefit from knowing more about
an illness that affects 1 in 10 women and is a
leading cause of infertility.
You recently just attended the third annual
Blossom Ball at the New York Public Library
which you co-host. Tell us about the Blossom
Ball.
The event does very well. It’s a young orga-
nization and keeps getting more successful
each year. The event takes place every March,
which is Endometriosis Awareness Month.
Susan Sarandon was a co-chair, and she did
a stellar, wonderful job for us. It’s where we
make the money that we use to operate the
Foundation for the year.
playground summer 2011 41
 Padma
Lakshmi

What are your hopes for other women suffering

from endometriosis?
My hopes for other women suffering from this
disease is that they will get diagnosed early
enough to get treatment in their early 20’s and
not have to suffer in silence for years and years
or have their fertility in jeopardy.

You do philanthropy, but you also do jewelry!

Let’s talk jewelry. What inspired you to launch
Padma, your seriously stunning line of jewelry?
I always made jewelry for myself. It’s a labor of
love. I enjoy making beautiful jewelry. People
always complimented me on the jewelry that I
made for myself, so I decided to make jewelry
for others to enjoy.

From two-time cookbook author to your Top

Chef hosting duties, it’s obvious that food plays
a huge role in your life. Did you grow up in a
food-loving family?
Yes, we’re the kind of family that starts plan-
ning the dinner menu as we are clearing the
lunch dishes.

In season 8 of Top Chef, Anthony Bourdain was

added to the judges’ table. How was the dy-
namic?
It was great! Anthony is so well-traveled. He
brings a worldly palate and biting wit to the
judge’s table. The dynamic is always a lot of fun
and Gail is super, too.

Any future plans for hosting your own television

show again—a la Padma’s Passport?
I would love to, however right now I have a
lot on my plate. I would love to go around and
travel again like on Planet Food.

What made you decide to create a line of teas

and spices for HSN?
I always loved concocting my own spice mixes,
custom blending teas and making my own reci-
pes. I’d make batches and give them to friends
and family, almost like others can or pickle every
season. Tea and spices are of course a big part
of Indian culture, so it’s already in my heritage.
Teas and spices are also a healthy way to have
tasty and eclectic meals without a lot of fat or
calories, and that was important to me.

42 playground summer 2011

How do you simultaneously honor your foodie
mind and your model body? Is there a trick to Five
pleasing both?
Lean proteins, vegetables and my spice bottle. I
Favorites
use spices on all my foods, and yes I do go on a
treadmill. I also love to cook with a slow cooker; 1 Movie
The Sound Of Music
it’s a mother’s godsend. because it reminds me
of childhood.
Is it true that your modeling career launched be-
cause you were spotted in a café?
Yes, it is true. I was spotted in Madrid in a café 2 Ice-Cream
Flavor
that started with the letter Z.
Mint chocolate
Chip.
Chip
You were raised to be a vegetarian? Will you raise
your daughter Krishna as one too?
My daughter eats boiled eggs, Spanish tortillas,
grilled fish. I will introduce meat eventually but
not for a while. But she loves her veggies, espe-
cially kale and bell peppers as well as black-eyed
peas and lentils and rice. She is a regular Indian
baby in her eating habits.

I love the name Krishna, how did you choose that

name?
Thank you, Krishna is a traditional boys name in
3 Vacation Spot Bali.

India, but I think it’s a lovely name for a girl. It’s

also a simple, but very classically Hindu name
that I thought was familiar to Westerners and
was easy to pronounce phonetically. Krishna is
short for my grandfather’s whole longer name.
What are your favorite parts about motherhood
thus far?
Sharing a wonder for the world that is so pure
and new, you see everything through the eyes of
a curious little girl. She loves listening to music
and dancing and reading books.
boot, (never wear open toe shoes on a plane); a
good pair of strappy heals in a gorgeous, neutral
snakeskin; a pair of flats, two jersey dresses that
flatter your shape and can be for day or night;
a cocktail dress; two pairs of jeans: one wide
leg and one skinny jean. (I also love white jeans
in the summer with a dressy top); 3 tanks, 3 t-
shirts, one bikini, a fabulous sarong, and shorts.

I hear you’re quite the linguist! How did you learn

I also never go anywhere without a pashima or
two. 4 Music
Prince, especially
so many languages? Can you pick a favorite? How
the B-sides.
many languages do you want your daughter to How do you stay grounded? Do you have a man-
speak?
I want Krishna to speak as many languages as
tra that keeps you centered and keeps you going?
I focus on all of the positive things in my life. I 5 Beauty Product
you cannot live without
possible. I speak five and Italian is my favorite. remember that I am lucky. I remember that oth-
My homemade bath
ers in the world have it much, much harder.
products made of sea
You make style look effortless—what are your salts and organic oils.
must-have items for the warmer months? What are your summer plans?
One thing I learned from modeling is to pack Right now no summer plans, as it all depends
well. Same with good style, you need your sta- on my “shooting schedule.” I do know I will be
ples. Here is a summer packing list: a good ankle spending lots of time with my little girl.

PLAYGROUND SUMMER 2011 43

 Kate is ready for
the rain in Stella
McCartney Kids
Floral rain coat,
denim snap dress,
& yellow rain boots,
available at Stella
McCartney NYC

STEPPING

Style
OUT IN

T
he weather outside was frightful as we all gathered in the
Penthouse Suite at the Surrey Hotel for a fun, fabulous,
pajama party! The girls had a pillow fight thanks to
PHOTOGRAPHY BY PHOTOOP NYC
Lisa Perry, took a ride on a luggage cart, snacked on
an array of Crumbs cupcakes, played games and were the first to
see and try on all the amazing new spring clothing from Ooh La
La, Milly Minis, Stella McCartney, Gucci and so much more.
Lily wears a Red Heart
Dress by Monnalisa, a
Come take a look.....
red bow headband by
Bari Lynn from Lesters
and black patent Prada
Mary Janes. PHOTOGRAPHY BY ANA SCHECHTER | STYLED BY STEPHANIE KASTER

44 PLAYGROUND SUMMER 2011

 Kid’s
Fashion

clockwise from top left Blake

wears a t-shirt, button down and
hat all by Hitch-Hiker available at
Monnalisa Madison Avenue.

Emme wears the Ivory and Gold

dress by Monnalisa.

Lily wears a Monnalisa white

silk dress and headband by Bari
Lynn for Lesters and holds flowers
designed by Bloom.

Shih Tzu, Ozzy, wears a fedora by

Hitch-Hiker.

playground summer 2011 45

 LEFT Sophie wears a white off-the-
shoulder dress with red hearts, Emme
wears a denim dress with a cherry
bow and matching leggings, shoes
and headband, all from Lesters.

BELOW Emme wears a navy and white

dress, with matching shoes and hair
clip all available at Monnalisa.

Blake wears a t-shirt, sweatshirt, &

pants all by Hitch-Hiker and avail-
able at Monnalisa, Loafers are by
Naturino and available at Lesters.

Red Heart bag by

Monnalisa
Pj’s all available at
Lesters; Pillows Lisa Perry
LisaPerryStyle.com

46 PLAYGROUND SUMMER 2011

 Kid’s
Fashion

Splish Splash lets all

play in the Bath! Emme
Little Marc/Marc
Jacobs; Sophie Little
Marc/Marc Jacobs
at Bloomingdales;
Isabella Juicy Couture

StylEd By StEphanIE KaStEr above lily wears a black sequin

haIr By MarlEna FEldMan For Cozy’S CutS For KIdS motorcycle jacket, black-n-white
MaKE up By EMIly BruMFIEld dress and leggings, all from Mon-
pEt StylIng By rEME’S oggI pEtS nalisa, white sunglasses at Cozy’s

right Blake wears a white hat

with matching t-shirt, vest, jacket,
suspenders and jeans all by Hitch-
Hiker, shoes by Naturino
 kids’
Fashion
We are Fendi
Fendi launches line of kids’ clothing Photography by Heidi Green
K
elly Rutherford, in partnership
with Divalysscious Moms and
Lyss Stern, celebrated the domes-
tic debut and launch of the Spring/
Summer 2011 Fendi Kids.
48 playground summer 2011
The event took place at the Fendi Flagship
Store at 677 Fifth Avenue; 10 percent of all pro-
ceeds that evening went to benefit The Ameri-
can Red Cross Of Japan. With more than 500
moms in attendance, the event was a blast.
On the catwalk:
Kelly Rutherford
and her kids show
off their Fendi
duds.
Alison Brod, Tatiana Boncompagni Hoover,
Samantha and Sabrina Kleier, Lyss Stern, June
Ambrose, Allison Brettscheider and Jennifer
Manavi’s children modeled in the fashion
show, joined by many other stylish tots.
 kids’
Fashion

Sassy and sweet.

Look mom!
Ready for any- Comfortable and
thing in his Fendi stylish.
shirt and slacks.

Posing for the

camera in angelic
white.

playground summer 2011 49

 SHOPPING

THIS SUMMER’S 10 MUST-HAVES

For You and the Kids by Julie Earle-Levine 6

I
t has been a long, cold winter, but summer is fi-
nally here! Here are our top choices for gorgeous
beachwear for chic Moms and tots alike. These
are the staples for a wardrobe that transport us
to the balmy season in style, with clothes and acces-
sories as relaxed as our favorite beach getaway.

1. SATYA JEWELRY
Gold Ocean Blue To-
paz ring is cast by hand
1
of silver, and finished in
24k matt gold vermeil,
with a pretty lotus bud
on either side of a large,
square-cut stone that
dazzles. $388.
satyajewelry.com

2. TOM FORD 2
SUNGLASSES
Tabitha Sunglasses
$420 tomford.com
7
Tom Ford, 845 Madi-
son Ave, New York NY
10021 Ph: 212-359-0300

3
3. BENSIMON SNEAKERS
Bright sneakers pop,
and keep little feet cool
and safe for climbing 5
on rocks and sprints to
the playground.
$55-$75 moxsie.com
4
4. LUCKY FISH T-SHIRT
This sweet blue fish T
by Lucky Fish is unisex,
and beach perfect
$38 soluckyfish.com

5. BOTTEGA VENETA
This stunner is the per-
fect day dress/cover up
over a swimsuit. $1,950
bottegaveneta.com

50 PLAYGROUND SUMMER 2011

 8

The blossoms on Cupcake Café’s cakes set co-owner Ann Warren’s cakes apart. ...
Her colors, shapes, and arrangements seem to bloom from roots
beneath the frosting. –NEW YORK MAGAZINE
TO ORDER CAKES, CUPCAKES, OR BAKED GOODS call
212-465-1530 or visit one of our shops • We deliver anywhere in Manhattan for
a delivery fee • Please place your order two days in advance. Thank you!

18 WEST 18TH STREET (Between 5th & 6th avenue)

6. AMRITA SINGH
Strappy sandals for the
beach in turquoise with
gold, $150 amritasingh.
Monday – Saturday: 9 - 8 • Sunday: 9 - 7
545 9TH AVENUE (Between 40th & 41st street)
Monday - Saturday: 8 - 7 • Sunday: 9 - 7
LEARN TO DECORATE CAKES THIS SPRING!
Call 212-465-1530 to enroll in a decorating workshop.
Email: info@cupcakecafe.com • www.cupcakecafe.com
WE DO NOT ACCEPT ORDERS VIA E-mAIL. THANK yOU

com
CAKES • CUPCAKES • BAKED GOODS
ART DESIGN CAKES • PARTIES • FlORAl CAKES
7. CHANEL BRACELET CAKES FOR FIlM SETS • CAKE DECORATING ClASSES
This gold metal cuff is
great eye candy, $1,475

frost Valley yMca

chanel.com

8. J CREW HAT
This is the perfect
9
topper for lazy days at
register online today!
2011 suMMer caMps
the beach with good
coverage. J Crew navy
paper straw hat can be
packed flat in a suitcase
or beach bag and it Sleepaway Camps 1 & 2 wEEk
won’t squash, $34.50 Farm Camp SESSIONS
jcrew.com
Horse Camps JuNE, JuLy
9. OSHKOSH B’GOSH Adventure Trips & auGuST
TRUNKS
These cute turtle print
Service Trips aGES 7-16
swim trunks will turn REGISTER ONLINE: frostvalley.org
heads, $14 oshkosh
EmaIL: info@frostvalley.org
bgosh.com
TEL: 845-985-2291
10. J CREW TOTES check us out on facebook:
This navy stripe facebook.com/frostvalleyymca
farmer’s market tote is
10 ONLy 2.5 hOuRS fROm mETRO Ny/NJ!
great for the beach too.
$49.50 jcrew.com

PLAYGROUND SUMMER 2011 51

 giving
back

a DaD on a
mission
Raising awareness by Lambeth Hochwald

david plotkin,
awarded for
his work in the
fight against
cancer .

I
t’s the news every parent fears hearing.
In the spring of 2007, on the day before
their son Max’s fourth birthday, David and
Annemarie Plotkin learned that Max had
cancer. “It was as if someone ripped my soul
out of my body and smashed it to the ground,”
says Plotkin, a managing director at an equity
trading firm in Manhattan.
Worse, the couple soon learned that the can-
cer had spread and was considered Stage IV. Christie Brinkley raises
They also found out that, like other rare dis- awareness at the roar for
eases, little research was being done on Max’s a Cure Family Carnival.

type of cancer because funding was almost

non-existent for pediatric cancer.
To that end, Plotkin made a promise to a
‘higher power’ the day before Max started
chemo. “I decided to dedicate the rest of my
life to raising funds and awareness for pediat-
ric cancer, the number one killer of children,”
says the father of two other children, Alexan-
der, now, five, and Ella, two.
To do this, Plotkin and Annemarie and Plot-
kin’s father, Richard, established The Max Cure
Fund three weeks after Max began chemo
and shortly thereafter started The Max Cure
Foundation (maxcurefoundation.org) to raise
funds pediatric cancer causes. “We learned that
MSKCC needed to underwrite a $5 million for a
one-of-a-kind cell therapy lab dedicated to al-
ternative treatments and innovative research,”
Plotkin said, “that became Max Cure’s focus
and primary mission.”
The family’s 501(c)(3) nonprofit, which has
already raised over $1 million, now honors Max,
who, at age seven, is in remission and back to
school. “When you go through an unexpected
life-changing experience, especially one that
involves your child, your true life’s purpose is
defined,” he says. “Every thing I’ve done in the
past three years and will continue to do is out of
love for my children.”
The Plotkin’s fundraising efforts have been
nothing short of remarkable. For example,
“Take The Journey,” an album that includes
17 country songs, Plotkin wrote to his beloved
son. “I said to Max ‘You are so brave. How
do you do it?’” says Plotkin, who is neither a
musician nor a singer. “He said, ‘Daddy, I sing
your songs to myself during the tough days.’
So I kept writing.”
“I wanted to make the album because I
thought there will be a day when I’m gone and
Max won’t remember much about our journey
together,” he says. “If he ever needed to be re-
minded of what’s important in life, he has 17
songs to listen to. If the songs can help others
through their journey, all the better.”
How does this working dad juggle it all?
Simple. “I’m a man of my word. I am fulfilling
a promise I made that awful day we learned
of Max’s diagnosis,” he says. “While Max was
sleeping, I remember whispering in his ear that
we would beat this together. I promised him
that something good would come from this—
that Daddy would continue to fight and help
find a cure while spreading our ‘Be Brave’ mes-
sage. In life, all you have is your word.”

52 playground summer 2011

 A DV E RTO R I A L

I
n February, to celebrate the arrival of The World Class Learning Academy, New
York Observer’s Playground Magazine played host to room full of inquisitive
parents providing a wonderful evening of hors d’oeurves, goodie bags and of
course, Education.
With an internationally renowned curriculum that is used in over 1,000 schools
in 65 countries, World Class Learning Academy offers learning-focused education to
students 3-11 and is clearly going to have a strong impact on the decision making
process for a lot of parents when considering where to send their children to school in
New York.
Some 70 guests attended the educational symposium to listen to an elite roster of
selected guest speakers which included WCLA Headmaster,
John Taylor, as they introduced the first school of its kind to
New York City. The room were treated to an in-depth presen-
tation by the very impressive Dana Haddad, Founder of New
York Admissions LLC who has been quoted as saying of the
new institution “World Class Learning Academy is bringing
a new way of learning to New York City; particularly in low-
er Manhattan which lacks diversity of private schools” It is
this point that proves WCLA to be such a important addition
to the footprint of our city’s educational map.
Evenings like this are of particular importance to parents who are working their
way around the often difficult task of choosing the right school for their child. It is all-
too-rare that those responsible for our children’s education have a genuine opportunity
to listen to, and ask questions of, an independent expert like Ms. Haddad. Further, Ob-
server’s Playground provided a platform to showcase Mr. Taylor’s intentions to a wider
audience and to drive home the significance of the new school’s potential.
After the initial presentation by Ms. Haddad, Mr. Taylor went on to explain that
WCLA follows both the UK National Cur-
riculum and the International Primary Cur-
riculum (IPC), which allows children to focus
on a combination of academic, personal and
international learning. Teachers are trained
in the UK and focus on reaching each child,
based on their individual learning styles, by
employing differentiated learning strate-
gies. As a result of the high standards set and
methods used, children at WCL schools are
performing well beyond expectations for their age. Children are learning to read and
discover foreign languages by the age of 3. It perhaps goes without saying that the
room was throbbing with energy at the potential this new educational hub has to offer
the city’s children.
The event was a huge success with parents and teachers alike enjoying some in-
credible food provided by Certe catering company. In fact many of the guests went on
to sign up to take part in one of the weekly Tea and Tours which happen every Tuesday
at the school and provide an opportunity for a more in-depth look at the behind-the-
scenes, often with the Admissions Director, Sarah Bottoms near-by to answer any and
all questions.

The school opens in September 2011 and is located at

44 East 2nd Street
New York, New York 10003

in the East Village, walking distance from SoHo, NoHo and NoLita.
Nearby subways provide easy access to the school’s location from
Midtown, Chelsea, West Village, Gramercy and Brooklyn.

For more information, visit wclacademy.org or

call 212-600-2010.

playground summer 2011 53

interview
T
wo of my most
beloved “glam-
mas” sat down
to chat about a
slew of topics
including how
exciting it is to have grand-
kids, their favorite activities
to do with their grandchil-
dren and how they stay
glamorous. Karen Kreitzer,
my mother, sat down with
Candy Spelling in late April
at the gorgeous Porter House
steak restaurant in Columbus
Circle overlooking Central
Park. These two glamorous
grandmothers talked candid-
ly about how 65 is certainly
the new 50.
Still beautiful and dressed
in blue, Candy Spelling met
us at the restaurant in flats, From one “Glam-ma”
to another
but changed into stilettos
for photos. Candy had come
straight from her appearance
Catch Up With Candy Spelling by Lyss Stern
on the Today Show, promot-
ing her new Broadway show
How To Succeed in Business
Without Really Trying.
In the spring of 2010 Candy became a first-
time Broadway co-producer of the award-
winning musical Promises, Promises. The
show won a Tony Award and starred Sean
Hayes and Kristin Chenoweth. Broadway
beckoned again and she signed on to produce the kids’ favorite, Yo Gabba Gabba, of course.
her second Broadway show, the aforemen-
tioned How to Succeed, a Frank Loesser clas-
sic, which is currently starring international
superstar Daniel Radcliffe.
Candy, like any grandma, gushed about
her grandkids. Her daughter Tori Spelling
has two grandchildren—and the adorable
54 playground summer 2011
tots are stars in their own right and even call
their grandma CandyGlam. Candy installed
personalized Liam and Stella car seats in the
back of her car, so she can cart her beloved
grandkids anywhere they like—listening to
“They love to stop by and get yogurt in En-
cino after school,” Candy says.
Candy’s library in her Los Angeles home
tells a visitor all he or she needs to know.
With more bookshelves than can be easily
counted, and each filled with leather-bound
scripts that make up the thousands of hours
Still got it Candy
Spelling grabs a snack
and strikes a pose in
between “The Today
Show” and promoting
her latest efforts “How
to Succeed in Business
Without Really Trying.”
of television and films cre-
ated by her late husband,
television’s most-prolific
writer and producer, Aaron
Spelling. Shelves of Beverly
Hills 90210, The Love Boat,
Dynasty, Charlie’s Angels, The
Mod Squad, Vega$, 7th Heav-
en, Starsky & Hutch, Fantasy
Island, Charmed, Melrose
Place and scores of other se-
ries, specials and movies all
taking up honored positions.
She has an extensive col-
lection of Madame Alexan-
der dolls and even collects
candy jars —a tribute to her
name, no doubt. Both she and
daughter Tori share a love
of throwing lavish, amaz-
ing parties, something Tori
learned from her mother
growing up. The duo also
bond over filming for Tori
and Dean’s reality show on
Oxygen, something Candy
describes as “so much fun.”
She is also a big fan of philan-
thropy and says she modeled
her work off her close friend,
the late Elizabeth Taylor. Centro De Niños,
a downtown Los Angeles daycare center for
underprivileged families, holds a special
place in Candy’s heart. Her participation
was even noticed by the federal government,
enabling the center to expand its facility and
offer several additional programs and ser-
vices to needy families and their children.
Heidi Green pHotoGrapHy
Candy championed their cause and brought
results.
Candy Spelling is an inspirational woman
who is obviously in the prime of her life.
 TRAVEL
THE CREAM OF THE CROP
The Best of the Hamptons Right Now by Julie Earl-Levine
T
he Hamptons season officially
kicks off Memorial Day, and we’re
ready! Whether you want to stay
at a hotel or your own beach pad,
here are our picks for the sum-
mer’s best offerings in the Hamptons. There’s
also a slew of new restaurants, fun activities for
kids and top babysitting services.
Where to Eat
In Montauk, we’re excited that the family-
friendly Navy Beach is opening up for its
second season (it officially opened its doors
April 29) with a new menu and cocktails. Dine
with your toes in the sand and kids building
sandcastles, or indoor with beach views. We’re
liking the sound of chef Paul LaBue’s sautéed
crab cake, buttermilk fried chicken, truffled
mac ‘n cheese and new larger plates, including
Lobster Singapore with Asian vegetables and
the oil poached halibut with rock shrimp hash
and cucumber sambal. Leave room for the pea-
nut butter bomb with cookie crust, chocolate
ganache and raspberry puree. There’s a great
kids menu, too. For parents, try pitchers of
56 PLAYGROUND SUMMER 2011
CHILD’S
PLAY
That’s how easy we can
make it to find that
special nanny you’ve
been seeking.
With 20 years in the
New York City market,
Escape to the
we know nannies.Hamptons this
summer.
A CHOICE NANNY
Saintgria Rosa (St. Germain, rose, fresh peach
and strawberries and capirinhas.) Be sure to
850 Seventh Avenue
has 99 guestrooms and plenty of room for kids
to run, with an outdoor heated fifty-foot pool
NYCDCA #0890176
make a reservation at navybeach.com and adjacent, al fresco dining
Member, Better Business at OSO restaurant
Bureau
Serafina’s Hamptons outpost is another and an all-weather tennis court. We like the
top pick. The East Hampton version of the proximity to Coopers Beach – they provide a
northern Italian eatery promises the same complimentary shuttle - great restaurants, art
kid-friendly vibe as the 79th-and-Madison galleries and boutiques. Brunch is local farm
location (before 8pm). There’s an outside patio, fresh eggs, freshly squeezed juices and pastries,
seating 45, which the owners say is perfect for
families. They suggest making a reservation Enjoy a meal over-
on weekends, but say Mondays, Tuesdays and looking the sea at
Wednesdays are probably fine for walk-ins. Navy Beach.
serafinarestaurant.com
In Amagansett, the square is a great place
for families to get food at Mary’s Marvelous
or Hampton Chutney, then sit on the lawn in
the middle of the square while kids play on the
gazebo. At Hampton Chutney, the big winner
Call to discuss your child
with kids is the cheese or cheese and chicken care challenge!
212-246-5437
Utapa. marysmarvelous.com, hamptonchutney.
com
www.achoicenanny.com/nyc
LEYLA MARCHETTO
Where to Stay while iced tea and lemonade are complimenta-
There’s a casual, relaxed vibe at the newly-re- nyc@achoicenanny.com
ry in the library. Rooms are from $250 a night.
vamped Southampton Inn. The Tudor-style inn New this season are memberships at the Inn

CHILD’S
PLAY
That’s how easy we can
make it to find that
special nanny you’ve
been seeking.
With 20 years in the
New York City market,
we know nannies.
A CHOICE NANNY
850 Seventh Avenue
NYCDCA #0890176
Member, Better Business Bureau
Call to discuss your child
care challenge!
212-246-5437
www.achoicenanny.com/nyc
nyc@achoicenanny.com
New York Chinese Cultural Center
School of the Arts
390 Broadway 2nd Floor, New York, NY 10013 • Tel: 212-334-3764 • www.nychineseculturalcenter.org
After School Chinese Program Weekend Classes
February 28 through June 23
th th
January 8th through June 19th
New York Chinese Cultural Center offers exceeding- Classes include Chinese folk and classical dance,
ly fun language classes combined with traditional Peking Opera, acrobatics, Chinese painting,
Chinese dance, music, and fun arts and crafts activi-
ties to keep your young ones engaged.
calligraphy, paper cutting, and language.
All ages
Ages 3 ½ - 6 ½ years old Saturday from 9:00PM to 6:00PM
4 days a week from 3:15PM to 4:30PM Sunday from 11:00PM to 5:00PM
Summer Camp
in China July 28 th through August 22 th
3 week program in Shanghai!
Daily dance and language classes, plus weekend sightseeing and weeknight performances.
Ages 9 -15 years old
in New York July 11th through August 26th
New York Chinese Cultural Center
Join us for a summer of Chinese folk dancing, acrobatics, language, painting, and more!
Ages 3 ½ and up
The Parents League o f n e w y o r k
A non-profit association of parents and
independent schools since 1913
Admissions Advisory Services
Parenting Education Events and Workshops
Online Resources
Publications
WE KNOW SCHOOLS
The Parents League of New York
is affiliated with over
300 Independent Schools
115 East 82nd Street, New York, NY 10028
212-737-7385
Join online at ParentsLeague.org
PLAYGROUND SUMMER 2011 57
 travel

Classic Hamptons
charm at the Mill
House Inn.

that cost $2,000 for a family (of up to four) and

$1,000 for individuals that gives you use of the
pool and concierge service. southamptoninn.
com
The sleek Panoramic View in Montauk
offers guestrooms, suites and beach cottages
with a pool and private lounges overlooking
the ocean. It’s right next to Gurney’s but feels
An early spring quieter, with personal attendants and fully-
morning in the equipped kitchenettes (even if you use them
Hamptons.
only for making cocktails). Most have private
terraces or a balcony. distinctiveventures.com/
panoramic-view
Mill House Inn in East Hampton delivers
gourmet fare, is kid and dog friendly and is a
wonderful place to visit for those who dabble
in the arts and photography. Co-owner and
photographer Sylvia Muller raves about the
light and scenery, “We draw many artistic
types because the area is just so beautiful,” she
says. Her husband and co-owner Gary Muller
is a former chef and restauranteur, and his deli-
cious breakfasts are included in the rate ($225
to $495). Make sure you try the pancakes with
ricotta, lemon and dried cherry (631-324-9766.)
Oceanfront accommodations, private beach, pool, tennis. A stunning private house in Amagansett
The way Cape Cod was, still is at the Lighthouse Inn. comes with its own home theater, gym, steam
Welcome to a true family vacation – no cooking, no cleaning, no hassles… room, full playroom with air hockey, ping
simply enjoy the soothing ocean breeze on seven secluded oceanfront acres. pong, basketball game inside and hoop and
backboard outside, a big playing lawn, electric
A Cape Cod Family Vacation scooters, and non-chlorinated pool with elec-
tric child safe pool cover. The house is a short
• Supervised Children’s Program • Recreational Facilities for Children
walk to child friendly bay beaches, Amagan-
• Sandy Beach, Heated Pool, Tennis • Family Entertainment Nightly
• Complimentary full breakfast • Cottages, Suites, Family Accommodations sett village and ocean beaches. Parents get a
7,400 square foot house, and a guest wing with
bay views. It’s available for two weeks during
Lighthouse Inn the summer for $30,000 a week (516-769-7877).

One Lighthouse Road, West Dennis, Cape Cod, MA (508) 398-2244 Fun Activities/Kids Camps
Sylvia Muller

Find special offers at www.lighthouseinn.com/familyfun When you need a break from the beach, head
to these fun activities. Citibabes has a big fam-

58 playground summer 2011

 experiences
Galore

P A D UTCH H OTELS.COM
Stay with us and experience Pennsylvania’s fun-filled destinations!
Great Choices Lead to
Great Experiences.
STRASBURG HERSHEY LANCASTER
Rockvale
LANCASTER HARRISBURG Choose Us!
 Less TXT. More F-U-N!
Reconnect with your family, away from distractions and and more is less than two hours away in Dutchess County.
back to basics. Come to Dutchess County in the Heart of the Hudson
Pick strawberries together, or meet newborn farm Valley, where a family-focused getaway is about
animals. Catch a drive-in movie, or stroll across the affordable pleasures.
Walkway Over the Hudson.
Simple and Sophisticated. You Deserve Dutchess.
Stay a few days more for water park fun, children’s
museums and historic sites, or horseback riding and
river cruises.

® NYSDED
As gas prices continue to rise, it’s nice to know all of this

DutchessTourism.com 800-445-3131

Cultural Homestay InternatIonal

non-profIt eduCatIonal organIzatIon

For Affordable, Live-in Childcare Host an

International Au Pair!
• Quality: Carefully screened and trained loving au pairs
• Flexible: Up to 45 hours of at-home childcare per week
• aFFordable: Approximately $343 per week per family
• educational: US Govt. approved cultural exchange program
• experience: CHI has been bringing people of the world together
for thirty years!

Contact: Chris BurbBach - Regional Coordinator

Tel: 866-528-5152 • www.chiaupairusa.org
60 PLAYGROUND SUMMER 2011
 travel

ElysE HarnEy rEal EstatE

A Tradition of Trust
Connecticut • New York • Massachusetts
ily fun day planned for August 19.
You don’t need to be a Citibabes member to book
their Hamptons classes that offer a variety of art and
music-based programs for tots starting at 18 months.
Classes meet for a minimum of four weeks, at your
home, a park or the beach. Prices start at $180 per
child; Citibabes members get a 10 percent discount.
citibabes.com
Parents are raving about Main Beach Surf and GEORGIAN STYLE WITH PALLADIAN LIGHT “MOSS HILL”
LAKEVILLE, CT. High ceilings, customized win- NORFOLK, CT. Stunning 1903 Tudor style Mansion
Sport MBX Camp, which has all types of extreme dows to enhance spectacular views; moldings, panel- offers over 7,000 square feet, opulent and spacious
water sports including surfing, wakeboarding, kite- ing and 3 FPs create an impressive setting for living public rooms, numerous BRs and BAs and a Christo-
and entertaining. MBR Suite with Terrace, private pher Peacock kitchen. It affords total, protected pri-
surfing, kayaking and stand-up paddle boarding. Guest Suite and 3 additional BRs. Gunite lap pool vacy with lush grounds, greenhouse and Pool. Sited
-- all on beautifully sited 22 acres. Minutes from high above the quaint village, acclaimed for its Yale
mainbeach.com schools, lake and village. Summer School of Music.
Elyse Harney Tom McGowan
The South Fork Natural History Museum and Web# EH2233 $4,750,000 Web# EH2227 $3,950,000
Nature Center with a touch tank, nature walks and
workshops for parents and kids is another top desti-
nation. They also do scavenger hunts (631-537-9735).
Playful Learning in Sag Harbor is a fun visit
for everyone; and educational toys are the focus.
Mom-of-two Mariah Bruehl stocks cool books and
developmentally appropriate toys for kids aged 3 to
12. Summer workshops also available. playfulearn-
ing.com
TWIN LAKES WATERFRONT RIVERBEND -- “EXCEPTIONAL”
SALISBURY, CT. Amazing opportunity to own 1,100 SHARON, CT. Riverfront home located on the
Best Babysitting Services feet of waterfront on Washinee Lake, the smaller and “Blue-Ribbon, trout management area of the Housa-
more private in the Twin Lakes region. This 41.48 tonic River”; great location for fly-fishing, canoeing,
Jodi Jefferson’s Surf Craft is back this year. The acre property, divided into two parcels, has breath- and rafting. The Adirondack style house features
taking views to the West. Level building sites on both screened-in Porch, 4 FPs, Library, DR with adjacent
mom-of-two organizes drop-off arts and crafts parcels are ideal for building a lakefront home enjoy- koi pond & fountain. Guest Cottage has riverside sit-
programs for little ones at hotels and restaurants ing peace and tranquility. ting area with fire pit.
John Panzer Elyse Harney Morris & Karen Casey
including The Surf Lodge, Sole East and the Inn at Web# EH2146 $2,950,000 Web# EH2131 $1,295,000
Quogue. Mom and dad have a quiet brunch or din-
ner, while kids make cool art projects. $25 an hour.
surfcraftny.com
LLD, a Manhattan babysitting service has a week-
end service in the Hamptons including Southamp-
ton, Watermill, Bridgehampton, Wainscott and
East Hampton. Book at least one week in advance to
secure a full weekend sitter. Their college-educated
sitters are fun and trustworthy. LLD also offers
COUNTRY HOME WITH BARN AND VIEWS SHARON STATION
single-evening coverage, based on availability. $200 CANAAN, CT. Pretty, private setting on nearly 20 AMENIA, NY. 1875 original railroad station for the
beautiful Canaan Valley acres with views. The Main New York Central railroad, restored and renovated
annual membership fee, then $17 per hour for one House has 5-6 BRs, 3 BAs, LR w/FP, Great Room with with an added 3-bay heated garage. The kitchen and
child; $250 for 1-2 children overnight (24-hours). cathedral ceiling and FP, and Kitchen with Dining
Area by a FP. Three-floor living plus Basement and
entry have 13’ ceilings; there is a large open LR with
sliding barn doors to large South-facing open deck.
luckylildarlings.com whole house elevator. Beautiful classic Barn has Stu- Three BRs, 3.5 BAs, all with tile floors. Great country
dio and a 1-BR Apt. location.
Juliet Moore Elyse Harney Morris
Best Fitness Classes Web# EH2241 $675,000 Web# EH2083 $625,000

SoulCycle Bridgehampton is still the place to be

when it comes to the cardio scene. The popular
spin classes fill up days in advance, so book early.
www.HarneyRE.com
New this year: Friday night Soul party class (from Salisbury, CT New Preston, CT Norfolk, CT
July 1 to Sept. 2), a 60-minute class set to live music 860.435.2200 860.868.4411 860.542.5500
(bongos anyone?) and DJs. The party, with healthy Riverton, CT Millerton, NY
cocktails and snacks, $45 per person. soul-cycle.com 860.738.1200 518.789.8800

playground summer 2011 61

 TRAVEL

Corbin’s Crusaders
suMMer daY CaMP
Where sports, adventure and fun come together to make memories!
Through team spirit and sportsmanship we enhance your child’s potential and confidence.
For Boys and Girls Ages 4 - 14
June 13th -August 12, 2011
Located in Rockland County
Only 25 minutes from Manhattan
Door to door bus service
212 875-8174
www.CorbinsCrusaders.com
Peter@CorbinsCrusaders.com

FORGET THE
FLAMINGO KID
Tired of feeling hungry
while losing weight? This is not Not the Beach Clubs of Yesteryear

a diet. by Lambeth Hochwald

I
f you think beach clubs are just like the
• No packaged foods ones depicted in The Flamingo Kid,

• No calorie counting
think again. There may still be cabana
boys and valet parking, but the beach
• No points clubs of today are nothing like the one
portrayed in the ‘80s fl ick. In fact, beach
• No supplements clubs are as big a part of summer for city

• No restricted foods
families as are trips to the Hamptons or the
Jersey shore. Read on for more about a few
Patented biofeedback device
of the ones dotting Atlantic Beach, located
Mandolean offers an individualized eating on the south shore of Long Island—just 22

behavior program that teaches you how to eat, miles from Manhattan.

with proven weight loss results. Talk to Stuart Berman, owner of the West-
bury Beach Club (westburybeachclub.com)
Contact us to schedule a free tour and and it’s clear why New York City families
information session. love this Atlantic Beach club so much.

646-386-7745 or info@mandonyc.com
He knows every member by name, offers
families his famous shortcut to the club—the
smallest on the Ocean Boulevard strip—and,
www.mandoleannyc.com on weekends, he routinely strolls the beach
Upper East Side, Manhattan with a pitcher of late-afternoon pina coladas

62 PLAYGROUND SUMMER 2011

 Spend a relaxing
afternoon in
Atlantic Beach.
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Make up that stays on for years.

Look younger without surgery!
CARYN LEVY

The Manhattan Highbrow 325 West 38th St., Suite #705 NY, NY 10018
for the adults. His love of summer at the
club is infectious. “My wife and I are laid
back,” he says. “We treat the club as our

I’d like the first line to be: The Manhattan Highbrow. Also,
summer home.” And, although the club has
rules like all the other beach clubs on the
strip, Berman works hard to cultivate an at- can the black bar with the text be eliminated because it cov-
mosphere of relaxation and a sense of close- ers much of the model’s permanent makeup.
ness among members, many of whom return
year after year, making friends with other
families who have rented adjoining cabanas
or lockers. Families flock here for the full-
size heated pool, kiddie pool, swimming
lessons, steam rooms and showers, kids’ ac-
tivities on the weekends or just relaxed days
at the beach. Best of all, the kids have total
freedom at the club. “They can walk to the Sign up now for our Summer Book Club
Meets the last Tuesday of the month for a lively discussion and creative activity.
café and buy an ice cream. They fi nd friends
and play. We know everyone and there’s a 4:30-5:30 pm
feeling of safety here that you just can’t fi nd $25 per session
in the city.”
Book provided by Torly Kid at sign up
Catalina Beach Club: Take a stroll through ReseRvaTions RequiRed.
this club (catalinabeachclub.com), with its June 28 – The Wish Giver: Three Tales of a Coven Tree by Bill Britian
stucco building, long sculptured promenades, July 26 – Sideways Stories from Wayside School by Louis Sachar
cabanas and balconies reaching out the sea, August 30 - The Phantom Tollbooth by Norton Juster
and you’ll admire its old time art deco charm.
Members only can sign up kids (ages 3-7) for
Camp Catalina, a licensed nursery day camp 51 Hudson St. (at Duane) • 1/2/3 to Chambers
offering swim instruction, arts and crafts,
beach sports, drama and more. www.torlykid.com • 212.406-7440
PLAYGROUND SUMMER 2011 63
 TRAVEL

M A N H AT TA N M A N H AT TA N
MAN N I E S MAN N I E S

A Fresh Take A Fresh Take

On Childcare On Childcare
Make a splash

CARYN LEVY
at the Catalina
Beach Club.

New York City’s leading provider
of positive male role models for all of
your childcare needs.
New York City’s leading provider
Inwood Country Club-The Beach Club: At this ocean-
of positivefront
malecountry
role models for all of
club (inwoodcc.org), members are shuttled
your childcare needs.
over to the beach club, located a few minutes from the
main clubhouse, where they’re promised pristine beach-
front, Atlantic Ocean swimming or a day at the club’s
pool. Other perks: A full-service bar and restaurant, valet
parking and barbecues every weekend.

The Sands at Atlantic Beach: Since 1954, families have

gathered at this club (thesandsbeachclub.net), the larg-
est in the area, promising over 12 acres of oceanfront
property, complete with tennis courts, a heated Olympic
sized pool and kiddie pool along with sauna and steam
rooms. Another bonus: A camp program on the beach, a
supervised morning program, swim program and weekly
special events, such as family barbecues on Sundays.

Babysitting • Coaching Babysitting • Coaching

Tutoring • Party Counselors Tutoring • Party Counselors
Summer at the Spa
Call us today and speak directly with Call us today and speak directly with
founder, Jack
Another Eichinger!
way to ing one of the widest, signature Montauk
founder, Jack Eichinger! enjoy the beach this whitest stretches Stone Therapy Mas-
summer—head to the of private beaches sage, Algae Body
oceanfront spa at around. Bring the kids Polish or Sea Water
516.330.4105 516.330.4105
Gurney’s Inn (gurney- (your little girl will Herbal Bath. Many
sinn.com) in Montauk, likely love a Princess treatments are of-
www.manhattanmannies.com www.manhattanmannies.com
perched high on wind- Manicure). Or invite fered beachside if you
info@manhattanmannies.com info@manhattanmannies.com
swept bluffs overlook- a friend and book a prefer.
Photo Courtesy of mommypoppins.com,
Photo Courtesy of mommypoppins.com,

64 PLAYGROUND SUMMER 2011

 Treating families
“like family”
for over 100 years.

• “State-of-the-Art” Spa
• Two 18 Hole Championship
Golf Courses
• Private Banquet Rooms
• Indoor & Outdoor Pools
• Horseback Riding
• Flyfishing
• Archery
• Segway Tours
• Clay Shooting & More!

Just Renovated!

The Inn at Pocono Manor

PO Box 95, Rt. 314
Pocono Manor, PA
Call 800-233-8150
www.poconomanor.com
 TRAVEL

Come Celebrate Your

Child’s Birthday Here!
Balloon Maker • Mini Chef • Science Guy
Magician • Clown • Trivia Guy HOT SPOT

UPPER WEST SIDE

2454 Broadway
UPPER EAST SIDE
1596 2nd Ave
GRAMERCY PARK
239 Park Avenue South
LONDON’S
212-677-2004 212-717-2020 212-477-1500
ST. PANCRAS
www.BigDaddysNYC.com
RENAISSANCE

L
ondon is one of those special
cities that everyone seems to
love —particularly kids—but
most New Yorkers don’t have
a specific hotel there to call
their own. Until now, that is, with the
opening of the St. Pancras Renaissance.
Essentially, the hotel’s a just-about-
perfect combination of classic British
details and modern, luxurious comforts:
a grand old railway hotel located in an
old majestic building that’s been fully
updated on the inside so it’s fresh and
bright and comfortable. Plus it’s got a
terrific restaurant with Gordon Ramsey
disciple Marcus Wareing at the helm and
magic is adjacent to the Eurostar station, so it’s
brunch an ideal base if you’re making a side trip
to Paris.
And if you’re thinking of a grown-ups-
tribeca
magic only trip, they’ve got a fabulous spa, so
11.30am you can relax after all of that sightseeing
brunch
to 1.30pm and shopping.

(212) 226-6252
tribeca
241 west broadway
11.30am
cerclerougeresto.com
to 1.30pm
66
(212) 226-6252
241 west broadway
PLAYGROUND SUMMER 2011
New York’s most talked about
spa oN the upper east side.
emerge rested and wholly re-energized. delight in the exclusivity of our private
suites, all appointed with a private bath, changing armoire and thoughtful
amenities. specializing in customized treatments, our spa experts use darphin
and li’tya products that are hand-selected to meet guests’ individual needs.
with an intimate air and personalized service, allow us to create an experience
considered only for you.

2 0 E a s t 76 t h s t r E E t N E w Yo r k N Y 1 0 0 2 1 | t 646.358.3600 | thesurreyspa.com
 crib
sheet

GearinG uP
For summer
Everything You Ever Wanted to Know
About Parenting But Were Afraid to Ask
by Lyss Stern and Rachel Felder

The United Nations

International School
gathering around the
campfirw is a quintessen-
tial summer experience.

UNIS Summer Program provides recreational, academic &
enrichment activities for children 4 and 14 years old, in a
friendly and supportive environment that fosters friendship,
develops sportsmanship and is nurturing in spirit.
Office of Special Programs
24-50 F.D.R. Drive (& 25th Street), NY 10010
Tel #: 1-212– 584-3083
Q
My child is going away to sleepaway
camp for the first time this year—any
pointers?
A Let’s face it, sleepaway camp is a major
rite of passage for kids and their parents. It’s
tempting to go overboard by sending too many
care packages or emailing and calling too
much. But parents, when making contact, re-
member part of the experience for your child
is the confidence-boosting empowerment of
being able to handle the time away. Definitely
send regular “survival kits,” but include things
that really show that you’ve chosen something
special for your little one—like, say, the se-
quel to a book they love or a baseball-related
item from their favorite team—instead of
just sweets or anything lavish. It’s also great
to include collaborative presents like board
scott dvorin

www.unis.org ljalilvand@unis.org
games or nail polish, so your kid can share the
contents of the package with bunkmates and

68 playground summer 2011

 H HOLLAND COURt H

pRIME
MEAts
friends.

FANCY FREsH pOULtRY

Back at home, enjoy the time without
babysitters and bedtimes and be ready with
reassuring words just in case your child calls
homesick or blue.

Q
I’m con-
cerned
that over
spECIALtIEs
pHEAsANts
the summer my
child won’t retain
what they learned
this past year at

sQUAB AND VEAL

school. Any sug-
gestions?
A Of course your
kids’ summer
should be lots

CALL FOR
of fun, but that
doesn’t mean you
can’t reinforce

HOME DELIVERY
some of their
classroom activi- Treatments include: Pilates-based rehab,
ties from the prior Yoga-based exercises, Kinesiotaping and
school year. The
(212) 289-84 90, 8491, 8330
a variety of specialized manual therapy
easiest thing to and sport specific techniques.
do is to encour-

age them to keep
reading. A gift card at their favorite bookshop
or a stack of Harry Potter books is a perfect
end-of-school “graduation” gift, or just plan
MEAt
We are a holistic, hands-on PT facility
that offers intimate, practitioner to client
treatment for direct rehab. Our clients
include high end “type A” professionals

MARkEt
a monthly library visit together. And remem- who injure themselves during daily activi-
ber, like we mentioned above, kids takes their ties, weekend warriors, post surgery rehab
cues from their parents, so your own beach and compensation cases. Get better!
reading for pleasure sets a great example.
There are also subtler ways to sneak academ- We treat the person, YOU CAN ALWAYs DINE OUt
ics into your summer fun. If you’re going not the diagnosis. BUt
abroad, it’s easy: use currency conversion as YOU CAN REALLY EAt At HOME
way to practice math skills, encourage your
kids to learn some basic expressions in a for-
eign language and teach them a bit of geog-
Karena Wu HOLLAND
COURT
raphy by mapping out your travels. If you’re
staying closer to home, urge your children PT, MS, CSCS, CPI
12 West 37th Street, Ste 1202
to keep a diary of the summer. For younger
New York, NY 10018
kids, this can simply consist of drawings to
foster self-expression and for older ones, it’s
212 777 4374 MEAT MARKET INC.
a great way to keep them writing during the
summer months.
www.activecarephysicaltherapy.com
1423 LEXINGTON
NEW YORK, NY 10128

Heated Pool Tennis Court Gameroom
Large Lawn to Play On
Summertime Shuttle to Cooper's Beach
Bring the family pet!
Find us on
91 Hill St. Southampton, NY 11968 800.832.6500
southamptoninn.com
High-Performance Optics for Earth and Sky
Oberwerk binoculars provide stunning sharpness
and clarity at surprisingly affordable prices.
25 models available from 40mm to 100mm.
For free catalog call 866-244-2460 or visit us at
70 playground summer 2011
crib
sheet
Taking photos is a great
way to preserve the
memories of summer.
Q
What’s the best and easiest way to
preserve all the memories of a great
family summer?
A fun summer with the kids does indeed de-
serve to be remembered—and that can be as
easy as snapping impromptu pictures on your
camera phone. Set aside a regular time to print
out those photos—say, every Sunday night. We
love buying a photo album at the beginning
of the summer to make it extra-easy to tuck
in those snapshots and keep them all in one
place. And make sure to involve the kids in the
process, encouraging them to write captions
and arrange the images in a narrative flow to
really bring the images to life.
A keepsake box is another ideal way to com-
memorate your family’s adventures. Essentially
a time capsule of the summer, simply fill a
box (even an old shoe box will do, preferably
covered with white paper and decorated by
the kids) with trinkets to reminisce over later:
shells from the breach, artwork from camp,
airplane boarding passes, postcards, and friend-
ship bracelets. And if you have more than one
child, give each a box right before Memorial
Day Weekend to jam-pack with mementos of
how they’ll spend a wonderful summer.
Q
All my child’s friends have expensive
vacation homes, which we can’t afford.
How do I explain that to my little one?
A Summertime is supposed to be about relax-
ing, but keeping up with Joneses could make
anyone stressed out. The bottom line is that
kids just want to have fun. They won’t be con-
cerned about whether or not their surround-
ings are lavish if they’re having a good time. So
simply fill the summer with loads of fun activi-
ties. Something simple like an afternoon in the
playground followed by cupcakes is as fun for a
child than fancy and expensive plans. Kids will
pick up cues from you, so if you’re content and
enjoying yourself, chances are they will too.
Impressive Pre-War Classic
955 Lexington Avenue

Brilliant light, fabulous views

Classic 6-room beauty with fireplace. Excellent condition.
Prestigious pre-war cooperative between 69th and 70th.
Sun-filled home with superb open NYC views.
Traditional architectural details, elegant understated décor.
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Playground Gallery
A CHOICE NANNY has been matching
high quality nannies with discerning New
York families since 1991. With attentive,
personal service and professional guidance
throughout the hiring process, A CHOICE
NANNY provides full time, part time and
temporary caregivers for newborns to school-
age children. Background investigations
by private detectives included. Located at
850 Seventh Avenue, A CHOICE NANNY is licensed by the
NYC Dept. of Consumer Affairs and is a member of the Better
Business Bureau. www.achoicenanny.com/nyc. To schedule a
no-obligation child care needs assessment, contact 212-246-
5437 or nyc@achoicenanny.com.
ACADEMY OF MUSICAL ARTS provides
outstanding quality education in the
convenience of your home! We offer
private instruction in piano, violin, guitar,
cello, flute, clarinet, and voice. Our expert
teachers create a personalized program
of study for each student, designed to
meet their individual needs. By enrolling in our programs our
students also benefit from the music theory and ear training
program, which is incorporated in the lesson, as well as our
performance opportunities at the end of each semester.;
Varta Academy of Musical Arts, www.vartamusic.com, info@
vartamusic.com; 347-229-2485
Karena Wu is the owner of ACTIVECARE
PHYSICAL THERAPY located in midtown
Manhattan. The facility offers one-
on-one hands on treatment and takes
most major insurances. Please call for
an appointment. 212-777-4374. www.
ActiveCarephysicaltherapy.com; Karena
Wu, PT, MS, CSCS, CPI, ACTIVECARE PHYSICAL THERAPY,
PC.. 12 West 37th Street, Suite 1202, New York, NY 10018
www.activecarephysicaltherapy.com
CHELSEA PIERS SPORTS & design cakes, floral cakes, wedding cakes and
ENTERTAINMENT COMPLEX Chelsea
Piers, located on the Hudson River, offers
Manhattan’s best sports programming for
children ages 12 months - 17 years. Children
enjoy state-of-the-art facilities, including
a gymnastics center, rock-climbing wall, indoor soccer fields,
basketball courts, batting cages, indoor ice skating rinks, golf
driving range, bowling center, and a preschool. For ice skating
or hockey programs, call (212) 336-6100; for junior golf
programs, call (212)336-6400; for bowling, call(212) 835-
BOWL. For all other sports programs, call (212) 336-6500.
(212) 336-6666 www.chelseapiers.com
CHI AU PAIR USA provides a diverse group
of caring young au pairs from around the
world. Each au pair becomes a member of
your family while providing safe, attentive
and affordable live-in childcare. Your family’s
world view will expand through sharing
your au pair’s unique language and customs. CHI Au Pair USA
provides the best value for your money. For more information
on this government regulated program, contact us today!
Chris Burbach, Telephone: 1-866-528-5152 email:chichris@
chinet.org; website: www.chiaupairusa.org
THE CRAFT STUDIO is the hottest place
in NYC for parties, play dates, painting,
toys, candy, crafts, gifts, and more. Always
offering the latest and greatest workshops,
1657 Third Avenue, New York City 10128
212.831.6626
gifts, and fun. For over 15 years the Craft Studio has also been
www.craftstudionyc.com
the premier party location for cool kids in New York City. With
over 20 themes to chose from, there is something for everyone.
Call for reservations and walk in availability. 1657 3rd Avenue,
NY, NY 10128; 212-831-6626; www.craftstudionyc.com
THE NEW YORK CHINESE CULTURAL
CENTER (NYCCC) is a major force in
presenting and preserving traditional
Chinese arts through professional
performance program and educational
workshops. Each year, NYCCC provides
72 PLAYGROUND SUMMER 2011
over 3,000 classes in traditional dance, language, martial art,
Peking Opera, and arts and craft to people of all ages and all
backgrounds. Its assembly program reaches over 150,000
people every year national wide. This summer, NYCCC will
produce summer camp in Shanghai, China, a three-week
intensive dance, language and cultural classes from July 28th
to Aug 22nd, plus weekend tours and weeknight performances.
For more information, please call 212.334.3764 or visit www.
nychinesculturalceter.org
CORBIN’S CRUSADERS DAY CAMP Experience
a summer alive with sports and adventure at
Corbin’s Crusaders Day Camp! Located in New
City, NY, only a short drive from Manhattan
where fifty breathtaking acres of exciting
outdoor fun awaits. Catering to campers’ diverse
interests, we offer professional, dedicated and
enthusiastic instruction in various sports including: baseball,
soccer, basketball, lacrosse, tennis and swimming. Our
adventure program includes fishing, boating, hiking, go-carts,
archery and much more! Corbin’s Crusaders Day Camp;
Directors: Wendy and Peter Corbin, www.CorbinsCrusaders.
com; ;(212) 875-8174; info@CorbinsCrusaders.com
CUMI’S BABY BOUTIQUE is a Chelsea shop
for the super-stylish tot. Cumi, the owner and
designer, having worked for twenty five years
with other top-name designers such as Diane
Von Furstenberg, Cathy Hardwick and Vera
Wang, has set up a shop of her own in the
Gallery District. She is currently preparing clothes for newborns
up to 3 years old and will began fitting for 3-4 year olds in the
near future. Cumi’s is a traditional boutique where quality and
distinctiveness is always guaranteed. Call now for store hours or
to set an appointment. Tel. (646) 633-5282, 317 10th Avenue
(near 28th street). Cumisbabyboutique.info
CUPCAKE CAFE. Save room for desert. Stop
in one of their two convenient locations and
sample their wide array of cupcakes, art
a great cup of coffee. Delivering anywhere
in Manhattan for a fee, this baked goods
shop also features cake decorating classes
throughout the year, private catering, birthday parties and
special menus for film catering. (212) 465-1530. 18 West 18th
Street (between 5th and 6th Avenues) and 545 9th Avenue
(between 40th and 41st Streets).
DUTCHESS COUNTY TOURISM.
From majestic mountains, lakes
and towns to pastoral farmlands
and trails, Dutchess County in
DutchessTourism.com 8 the Hudson Valley truly has it all.
Discover nearby, affordable places to visit just 90 minutes
from New York City, easily accessible by car, train, or bus. The
abundance of historical landmarks, fine restaurants, and cultural
art venues, plus striking natural beauty, makes Dutchess an
ideal destination for weekend getaways or longer excursions.
www.DutchessTourism.com, 800-445-3131
The Team at ELYSE HARNEY
REAL ESTATE is dedicated to
sharing this beautiful part of the
world with those seeking a weekend retreat or a full time home.
What unites the talents of the entire staff at Elyse Harney Real
Estate is the belief that the relationship between real estate
agent and potential home-owner goes beyond business. The
sale of a house is just the first step. We know the area and we
know the importance of community. With offices in Millerton,
NY, minutes from the Metro North train station, Salisbury, New
Preston and Norfolk in CT, as well as MA, the possibilities for a
little “Magic” are endless. 2010 has turned the corner! Join the
optimism of our buyers who are committing to their dreams.
HarneyRE.com
Imagine a world where childhood
dreams come to life. One of toy soldier
greetings and piano dancers. Travel
through a safari of plush wild animals.
See yourself as a Muppet Whatnot
puppet. This is the storybook world of
FAO SCHWARZ, where you’ll find an enchanting assortment of
fun and delighting the senses with our world of dolls, limited-
edition treasures and exclusive experiences you’ll forever cherish.
Come visit our new FAO Café. Now open! 767 5th Avenue New
York, NY (at 58th Street), 212-644-9400, Personal Shopping:
212-644-9400 ext. 3, www.fao.com, Hours: M-W: 10-7, TH-
Sat: 10-8 Sun: 11-6
Enroll today and be a part of FROST VALLEY
YMCA’s summer camp program! Our two-
week resident camps are designed to provide
exciting days that ensure fun for every camper
and provide activities that foster healthy,
outdoor fun. From swimming to tenting in the
woods and stories by the campfire, children
enjoy discovering new friends, new challenges and new skills.
Camps offered: Sleepaway, Horse, Farm, Adventure, and more!
Visit our website for more information: frostvalley.org.
THE BRITTANY: Located at 1775 York Ave., every
detail of The Brittany delivers an exceptional
luxury rental experience; from its soaring,
two-story lobby to its panoramic water views.
Generously sized rooms and 9-foot ceilings add a
sense of space, while the 50-foot swimming pool,
fitness center, children’s playroom and proximity
to the Murphy Center and Carl Schurz Park
provide ample recreation. Residents enjoy Glenwood’s signature
full-service, luxury living in one-, two-, and three-bedroom
homes. Call (877) 390-9444 or visit www.glenwoodnyc.com
Welcome to GRIMALDI & ASSOCIATES
where Insurance and Financial planning isn’t
complicated. Since 1990 we have provided
our clients with a no hassle approach to doing
business. We pride ourselves in our knowledge
and taking time to understand your needs.
You’re not a number, but a part of our family. Our fully licensed
and knowledgeable staff is always there to assist and looks
forward to serving you with the same care and personal
attention you’ve come to expect. Protecting the Present,
Future and Beyond. Barbara A. Grimaldi, 227 E 56th St /
212- 759 -3920.
HOLLAND COURT MEAT MARKET is a true
New York experience with the best customer
service in town. This meat and fish market
is so firmly established in their Upper East
Side enclave that they don’t even print an area code on their
stationary. Since the 1930’s, these highly skilled butchers
have provided prime meats, fancy fresh poultry, pheasant,
veal and squab to a hungry neighborhood. You can always
dine out, but you can really eat at home. Perfect for BBQ’s ,
Home Delivery, Call now: (212) 289-8490. 1423 Lexington Ave
HUDSON URBAN BICYCLES, located in the
West Village, now has the best selection in
NYC of pedaled child-carriers. 5 different
models, available for sale and rent, will carry
1, 2, 3, or 4 children easily ìat least around
Manhattan or Brooklynî says George Bliss the
HUBís general manager. These are mostly Dutch and Danish
designs, although the store has developed its own product, with
children in the back. Open daily 9-8. 139 Charles St. 212-965-
9334 hudsonurbanbicycles.com
ICING ON THE CAKE was started as
a love of baking grew into a love of
making people smile… After all, if there’s
a cake there’s something to celebrate!
Every cake is made to order. That means you
can be sure that your cake is fresh and delicious
every time. Each cake is individually designed to match you, your
personality, and the theme of the occasion you are celebrating.
Icing On The Cake can create anything from a traditional
wedding cake to a 3D sculpted cake. We also make cupcakes!
Call or email to schedule a consultation for your
next event. We look forward to baking for you!
(347)604-3309; icingonthecakenyc@yahoo.com; www.
icingonthecakenyc.com

THE INN AT POCONO MANOR- a 3,000-acre
resort is your getaway for family, golf groups
and romantic getaways. Our rich tradition of
hospitality insures your expectations are not only
met, but exceeded. Many of our packages include a
generous breakfast and dinner, and our numerous
leisure activities include golf, horseback riding,
indoor and outdoor swimming pools and state-
of-the-art spa. The Inn At Pocono Manor sports offers fishing,
clay shooting and more. Our location is convenient to the
area’s famous activities and is less than 2 hours from New York,
New Jersey and Philadelphia. www.PoconoManor.com; info@
poconomanor.com; 1-800-233-8150
JAZZ AT LINCOLN CENTER: Jazz & Popular
Song Family Concert I GOT RHYTHM: The
Common Roots of Popular Song and Jazz,
June 5, 3pm. Singer and scholar Michael
Feinstein hosts and presents a family
concert matinee exploring the common roots of 20th century
songwriting giants from Duke Ellington to George Gershwin
and many in between. Featuring Michael Feinstein, Curtis
Stigers, and Leslie Uggams. (Seating is General Admission.) The
Allen Room, Jazz at Lincoln Center, Columbus Circle, NYC; jalc.
org; 212-721-6500; CenterCharge
JOANIE LEEDS plays in front of thousands
of kids with her band, Joanie Leeds & The
Nightlights at high energy concerts but can
bring the interactive show right to your living
room or party space for your child’s special
day! Joanie is Nickelodeon’s Parent’s Pick for 2010’s BEST
Party Performer a John Lennon Songwriting Contest Finalist
and a Gold Parents´Choice Award winning singer/songwriter
& music educator. Joanie’s original music is in regular rotation
on XM Sirius Satellite radio & other stations across the country.
For more information, please visit www.citykidmusic.com or
email joanieleeds@gmail.com
KIDDING AROUND — named “Best Toy Store
in NYC” by New York Magazine. Sister store,
just kidding around, named “Best Toy Store in
NJ” by New Jersey Monthly Magazine. We are
passionate about our selection of toys, games
and gifts. Great design and great value – lots of classics and
lots of surprises! As a family owned business, we so thank you
for your support of local independent retailers! Unique toys &
gifts. 60 west 15th Street, New York City 10011 ; 212.645.6337;
www.kiddingaround.us .
KIDS-MAKE-MOVIES offers “Make-
a-Movie” Parties, private classes
and summer workshops. Kids learn
all aspects of movie production or focus on one part: story
development, filming, acting, editing. Parties: kids pick a theme
and in a three-hour party all guests take turns as actors, directors
and camera operators. Classes: kids create short movies, stop-
motion animations, music videos, documentaries or work
on individual projects. We edit in iMovie, Final Cut Pro and
Photoshop. Kids learn valuable skills in a fun and collaborative
environment. Call now for summer workshop schedule. Tel:
(917) 650-5044 Elke Stappert www.kids-make-movies.com.
elke@kids-make-movies.com
LEARNINGRX Will your child
achieve academic success?
Strong cognitive skills
(memory, attention, logic &
reasoning, processing speed) make learning any subject faster
and easier. Teaching and tutoring only go so far if underlying
learning skills don’t allow information to be processed efficiently
or effectively. At LearningRx, we can assess those skills, show
you where your child currently performs, and strengthen any
weak skills through unique one-on-one brain training activities.
We guarantee results! Programs for ages 4+. LearningRx –
Upper East Side, 115 E. 82nd Street, Suite 1B, New York, NY
10028. 212-738-9264. www.LearningRx.com
LIGHTHOUSE INN, will take you to a time gone
by…secluded and relaxing, with refreshing
ocean breezes to rejuvenate your spirit…
this is Classic Cape Cod. Situated on nine
secluded oceanfront acres, the Lighthouse
Inn offers a private sandy beach, heated
pool, tennis, children’s activity program and a full service
restaurant with panoramic ocean views. Accommodations
are provided in Cape-style guest houses and one-,two- and
three- bedroom cottages. All have private bath, refrigerator
and air conditioning. Most have gorgeous ocean views
and wood burning fireplaces. One Lighthouse Road,
West Dennis, Cape Cod, MA (508) 398-2244,
www.lighthouseinn.com/familyfun
MANDO GROUP NY offers treatment
for overweight and obesity through
the Mandolean treatment program.
Our team develops an individualized
treatment and uses behavioral modification methods to help you
learn healthy practices for food intake, physical activity, and sleep
patterns. Our patented biofeedback device, the Mandometer, is
used at meals to help you eat the right amount of food at the
right rate of speed, while monitoring your body’s natural signals
of hunger and fullness. MANDO GROUP NY, 261 E. 78th St., 6th
floor, New York, NY 10075. 646-386-7745. Fax 646-386-7890
info@mandonyc.com www.mandoleannyc.com
MANHATTAN HIGHBROW “Permanent make
up is a delicate, painless, and permanent
tattooing process for Eyebrow Color, Eyeliners,
Lipliner and Scar Camouflage. It is a wonderful
convenience for women tired of constantly
applying pencils and can last many years depending on the colors
chosen and the client’s skin condition. Hair loss, vision problems,
allergies to makeup, and active lifestyles are some of the many
reasons to try this wonderful procedure. Imagine no more smudges!
Manhattan Highbrow, 325 W. 38th Street, Suite 705, New York, NY,
(646) 808-7795.
MANHATTAN MANNIES connects New York City
families with high quality male caretakers, often
referred to as “Mannies”. We offer a variety of
services including babysitting, coaching, and
tutoring. Manhattan Mannies also provides
“party counselors” to keep kids entertained at
any special event you are hosting. Summer 2011,
Manhattan Mannies is pleased to announce our
first annual Fantasy Sports Camp. Campers are able to choose
an individualized and customizable sports program. Full day or
after camp programs are available. Please contact us to speak
directly to CEO/ Founder Jack Eichinger. (516) 330-4105 info@
manhattanmannies.com www.manhattanmannies.com
Specializing in full-service, co-op apartments
in the finest locations on The Upper East
Side. In this issue of Observer Playground,
MARGUERITE DE LA POER presents an
Impressive Pre-War Classic. 955 Lexington Avenue. Brilliant light,
fabulous views. Classic 6-room beauty with fireplace. Excellent
condition. Prestigious pre-war cooperative between 69th and
70th. Sun-filled home with superb open NYC views. Traditional
architectural details, elegant understated décor. Full service
building with individual storage. Exclusive $1.995M. To see
photo and learn additional information about this great family
living opportunity and tremendous value, please see Ms. De La
Poer’s advertisement on page 71. 212.535.4684; 917.428.8298;
mdelapoer@gmail.com; www.margueritedelapoer.com.
MIND OVER MATTER HEALTH AND FITNESS was
founded in 2004 to provide busy New Yorkers
an accessible service that would help integrate
fitness into their lifestyle. MOM’s mission is to
provide certified, friendly, reliable healthcare
professionals specializing in areas such as
Personal Training,Yoga & Pilates. Whether in your home, office
or even outdoors, MOM trainers are equipped with the skills
to turn any existing space into your own private health club.
Joshua Margolis, Mind Over Matter Health & Fitness,
126 West 96th Street, Suite 3A, NY, NY 10025.
(212) 865-9290, Joshua@MindOverMatterNYC.com
www.mindovermatternyc.com
Playground Gallery
NIKKI FIELD, Senior Vice President, Associate
Broker, has been a dynamic presence
with Sotheby’s International Realty since
1998, consistently ranking among the
global agencyís top five producers and
accomplishing sales of over one billion dollars.
America’s Top 400 Real Estate Professionals,
an annual ranking sponsored by The Wall Street
Journal, ranked Nikki in the top 100 agents in America
and in the top 10 in New York City for Sales Volume.
For more information, visit www.nikkifield.com.
Does your home or office
have a great view? Explore
and enjoy it to the utmost with OBERWERK LONG-RANGE
BINOCULARS AND BINOCULAR TELESCOPES. Highest quality
optics provide Stunning clarity and sharpness at surprisingly
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com For free catalog, call 866-623-7937 or email to info@
oberwerk.com OBERWERK CORPORATION 866-623-7937.
www.giantbinoculars.com.
PA DUTCH HOTELS Experience the best of
Pennsylvania in the heart of Pennsylvania
Dutch Country. Our family of hotels offers
the best of Pennsylvania in Lancaster
County, Harrisburg and Hershey, PA. Conveniently located
to the region’s best attractions and featuring amenities
for families, business travelers or groups. Whether you are
looking to relax, gather with friends or meet with colleagues
in a comfortable setting, PA Dutch Hotels offers your ideal
lodging solution. PADutchHotels.com
THE PARENTS LEAGUE OF NEW
YORK is a non-profit association of
families and schools since 1913. The Parents League provides
advisory services to families applying to preschools and
independent elementary, middle and upper schools in NYC.
Boarding school, special needs and summer camp consultation
is also available from our team of professional advisors. Parents
League parenting education events and publications provide
information on a wide variety of subjects of interest to parents.
Join today at www.ParentsLeague.org
ROBOFUN is an active learning space that
provides vacation week camps, summer
programs, after-school programs, and birthday
parties to youth in technology and multimedia.
Our mission is to construct solutions that inspire
students to address the widest possible range of academic
standards through the use of leading edge technologies.
RoboFun’s programs are designed to creatively enhance
students’ learning by using computers for Animation and Game
Design, LEGO® Robotics, and other project based work. The
RoboFun Studio is located in the Flatiron District, across from
Madison Square Park in NYC.
SLATE, one of New York’s only venues with
SLATE private and semiprivate reception spaces;
featuring 16,000 square feet of sleek décor over 2 floors,
accommodating parties of 10 to 1200 guests. Slate provides on-site
catering, activities such as billiards, ping pong and foosball, state-
of-the-art surround sound and audiovisual capabilities as well as
a spacious dance floor. Slate is ideal for all of your special events
including corporate parties, Bar/Bat Mitzvahs, fashion shows,
birthday parties, film shoots, meetings/seminars, rehearsal dinners
and receptions. 54 West 21st Street, Btw. 5th and 6th Avenues,
NYC www.slate-ny.com 212.989.0096, event@slate-ny.com
SOUTHAMPTON INN is an idyllic
getaway for guests of ALL ages— from
toddlers to teens, new parents to great-
grandparents! Perfectly located in the
historic Southampton Village, the Inn offers complimentary
shuttle service to renowned Coopers Beach, 50-ft. heated
pool, tennis court, outdoor climbing toys and lawn games,
and a playroom full of toys and books. Oso Restaurant
boasts a deliciously healthy children’s menu, complimented
by the garden of fresh herbs and vegetables. The midweek
6-day/5-night special is an affordable Hamptons holiday!
91 Hill Street, Southampton, NY 11968; www.southamptoninn.
com; 631-283-6500
PLAYGROUND SUMMER 2011 73
 Playground Gallery

SouvenarteBooks If you’ve got kids, then you’ve got art!! STRIBLING sells the finest downtown TORLY KID’s latest in a string of
SOUVENARTE BOOKSTM is a new and residences from full service offices activities for kids 7+ is a summer book
exciting way to preserve your child’s in Chelsea and Tribeca. In fact, only club series. For $25, your lit-loving child
Remembering the Art of Childhood
artwork. Here at our design studio, Stribling can trace its brokerage gets a novel to read ahead of time and
we prepare your child’s art and design a beautiful hardcover
We preserve your child’s artwork
roots to the original development of Chelsea in 1819. Stribling an hour of creative book-related activities and discussions.
coffee table book that you can enjoy, share and treasure. Our
Professionally printed on archival paper and designed into
a beautifully bound hardcover coffee table book to enjoy,
share and treasure.
brokers are experienced, knowledgeable professionals who Selections include The Wish Giver: Tales of a Coven Tree (June
professionally printed and museum quality books are printed
For more information contact souvenartebooks@gmail.com bring exceptional results and the highest levels of service to 28), Sideways Stories from Wayside School (July 26), and The
on the best archival paper. Let us make a book for you and you’ll the sale of gem studios, luxurious lofts, dream penthouses and Phantom Tollbooth (August 30). Tuesdays, 4:30-5:30, Reserve
1–917–740–2789

have your very own special keepsake of your child’s creativity. everything in between. In Flatiron, Gramercy, Chelsea, Meat in advance at 212.406.7440. More info at www.torlykid.com.
For more information contact souvenartebooks@gmail.com Packing, East and West Villages, Soho, Tribeca, FIDI and the
1–917–740–2789 Lower East Side, the right broker makes all the difference. Visit UNITED NATIONS INTERNATIONAL
us at stribling.com SCHOOL www.unis.org. UNIS Summer
StepsNYC.com
THE SCHOOL AT STEPS offers children, Program was created to provide
ages 2-18, an @opportunity
2121 Broadway 74th St. to explore the SURREY SPA Enter an intimate world where recreational, academic and enrichment
world of NY
New York, 10023to learn and experiment
dance, need informs service. Where each moment activities for children between the ages
212.874.2410
with technique, and to enrich their is carefully crafted to benefit your well-being of 4 to 14, in a friendly and supportive
appreciation for the art form. Programs are offered throughout and peace of mind. Where a new level of environment that fosters friendship,
the year with classes in ballet, modern, tap, jazz, theater gracious service ensures your privacy and develops sportsmanship and is nurturing in spirit. The program
dance, hip hop, and pilates. The school is a division of Steps tranquility. Find peace here and be wholly offers a unique composition of student and professional faculty.
on Broadway, the professional and adult dance division. www. re-energized. Personalized treatments are For information: Tel #: 212-584-3083 or Email: ljalilvand@
StepsNYC.com 2121 Broadway @ 74th St., New York, NY our signature. We give careful consideration to all aspects of unis.org
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to explore the offerings, which only begin to touch upon the
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for you. www.thesurreyspa.com

Dutchess County,
New York
F
rom majestic mountains, lakes and towns to pastoral farmlands
and trails, Dutchess County in the Hudson Valley truly has it all.
Discover nearby, affordable places to visit just 90 minutes from
New York City, easily accessible by car, train, or bus.
Start your trip along the scenic Hudson River. Take a sightseeing cruise
on Empire Cruise Lines’ M/V Mystere. Stroll the Walkway Over the
Hudson 1.25-mile linear park, formerly an 1884 railroad bridge, country
cousin of the High Line! At 212 feet above the water, the paved roadway
provides free access to the Hudson’s scenic landscape for pedestrians,
hikers, joggers, bicyclists, and people with disabilities.
The abundance of historical landmarks, fine restaurants, and cultural art
venues, plus striking natural beauty, makes Dutchess an ideal destination many parks.
Known as the home of “The Great Estates,” visit the stately Franklin

TXT. More F-U-N!

for weekend getaways or longer excursions.
For family fun, cool off at Splashdown Beach in Fishkill, with its’ new D. Roosevelt Home, Presidential Library and Museum; marvel at the
Bob the Builder attraction “Splash Works”. Explore the riverfront Mid- lavish, Gilded-Age Staatsburgh and Vanderbilt Mansions; tour FDR’s
Hudson Children’s Museum. Get closer to nature at Trevor Zoo and our cousins’ Queen Anne Victorian home Wilderstein; and meander through
the gardens and mansion at Locust Grove Estate. Thrill to airshows at the
Old Rhinebeck Aerodrome. Expose your children to superb contemporary
art at Dia: Beacon and Bard College’s CCS-Hessel Museum. Explore art
from Egypt to Picasso, and view Hudson River School artworks at Vassar
College’s newly refurbished Loeb Art Center.
Bring home a tasty souvenir from a farmers’ market or pick your
m distractions and and more is less than two hours away in Dutchess County.
own fresh fruits and produce. Dine at one of The Culinary Institute of
America’s five student-staffed restaurants. Visit area farms, such as Sprout
Creek; meet friendly cows and goats and taste their cheese.
Come to Dutchess County in the Heart of the Hudson A wealth of activities beckons for outdoor enthusiasts. Check out Big
Bear Ziplines in Hyde Park. Spend the day parasailing, hiking, biking, or
et newborn farm Valley, where a family-focused getaway is about fishing. There’s horseback riding and kayaking county-wide. Try skeet
shooting or play golf. Simple and sophisticated; you deserve Dutchess, for
r stroll across the affordable pleasures. a full menu of recreational choices. www.DutchessTourism.com Twitter/
@DutchessTourism, Facebook/Dutchess County Tourism

Simple and Sophisticated. You Deserve Dutchess.

ark fun, children’s
seback
74
riding and PLAYGROUND SUMMER 2011
 mom’s
minute

Kelly Killoren Bensimon

K
elly Killoren Bensimon is packing six lives your daughters to camp? York City? to clean water. One can
into one. This striking former model and I am either in high heels The best part of raising only survive three days
mother of two is an author, editor and a with my hair blown out children in NYC is the without water. I saw girls
jewelry designer. Oh, and did we mention coming from NYC and exposure to different cul- of 14 years old walking
that she currently appears on The Real some type of press ap- tures. The world doesn’t with buckets of water on
Housewives of New York City? pearance, or I’m in riding seem so big. their heads and not going
pants, a polo shirt and rid- to school. I thought, ‘I’ll
ing boots. What’s the worst part get you a well for water,
How do you juggle work ment. I used to be so con- of raising a child in New you go to school.’
and family? sumed by doing well. After What’s your favorite family York City?
I am very good at com- I had my girls, I quickly moment everyday? It is a very loud city. It’s What are you looking to
partmentalizing. When I recognized the value of My favorite moment is hard to turn off the excite- doing this summer with
work, I only work. When time. I only do what I love. the family meal. Good ment and the sound. your daughters?
I’m with my girls, I’m with manners and learning how My girls are ‘tweens and
them. Trying to do too What’s the best to converse are things that What’s the cause that you I’m looking forward to
much at once only makes advice you’ve given need to be learned and are most passionate about playing tennis with them—
everyone suffer. your daughters? honed. I want my girls to and why? they are getting good.
The best advice I give to feel comfortable whether Recently, I’ve become
What lessons from parent- my daughters is, “every they’re at McDonalds or at aware of the issue with What’s your guilty
ing have you incorporated problem has a solution. Le Cirque. clean water. I went to Haiti parenting pleasure?
into your work? Focus on the solution.” with Generositywater.org My guilty pleasure is
Seth Sabal

I take the pressure out of What’s the best part of and was shocked at those getting Starbucks with
work, and enjoy the mo- What do you wear to take raising a child in New who don’t have exposure my kids.

75 playground summer 2011

 Joanie Leeds and the Nightlights
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