Europe Comes to Manhattan

It may seem like a scene straight out of a European Christmas but actually the huge trees and skating rinks can be found right in the center of Manhattan, leading up to Christmas.  Sipping hot cider in itchy sweaters, New Yorkers are enjoying the dressed up Bryant Park, right by the New York Public Library.

Then of course there is – upcoming – Christmas on State Street thanks to Manhattan Park District and the Manhattan Chamber of Commerce.  The Manhattan Rec Center is having a special, free performance on December 4^th with the Lincoln-Way Central MadrigalSingers. The day after, kids can enjoy an afternoon performance of Santa Takes Manhattan.  And of course Santa himself will be there too. 

For kids with a creative edge, they are invited to participate in the Gingerbread House decorating contest, sponsored by the Manhattan Chamber of Commerce.  Santa is also participating in the Christmas Parade of Lights, down on State Street to end at Times Square.


Of course one cannot possibly omit the wonderful, annual Macy's Day Parade from all of this merriment in Manhattan either.

Succeeding As An Investor: Marc Lasry

Marc Lasry

How does one succeed as an investor?  Marc Lasry has some tips on reflecting on his work.  He says: “I think when we started our company one of the things we had to do was produce. And if you were able to generate returns then people would invest with you. It’s kind of hard to run an investment fund if you’re losing 20 percent a year.  Then most people aren’t going to invest with you.”

Chick fil-A in Midtown

Not only is Chick Fil A opening in Midtown Manhattan, but it is coming with its own unique set of rules.  

First, customers will place their orders through their iPads.  Also, there will be different menu items than standard Chick-fil-A branches such as the egg white chicken grill which will “make [its] debut at the NYC location.”  

The third difference with this Chick-Fil-A eatery is that it will be working with local businesses in both New Jersey and New York to get some of its ingredients, such as Brooklyn’s Damascus Bakery’s flaxseed flour flatbread.

Time for Oktoberfest!!!

Quick, some of the festivities end tomorrow! Get in before it’s too late. Although some might say it’s never too late for Oktoberfest. At least, that’s what they wish. Or perhaps it’s not just wishful thinking…Some of these institutions celebrate all year round. Indeed, that is what is in the mind of the brains behind the Reichenbach Hall.

 The Rechenbach Hall is making a meal of Oktoberfest as it were. Utilizing the entire month of October, along with its 5,000 square footage of space, it will be offering 14 German beers on tap as well as pretzels, bratwursts (aka German sausages) and other nibbles on its smorgasabord.

Next up is the Loreley Restaurant & Biergarten which is taking Oktoberfest to a completely new level. Instead of just enjoying celebratory beer for a month, this beer garden seems to make it a year-long event, with more than 12 German beers on tap, a wide selection of bratwursts and a comfortable back yard. These are just a few of the exciting events those in Midtown Manhattan can expect to enjoy during Oktoberfest.

There are many more in the area too, including Bohemian Hall & Beer Garden and the Standard Hotel. So, for those who like a bit of fun with their beer, this is the place to be.

Taking Dentistry to the Next Level

Dentists these days don’t have to be such a scary experience. In fact, one particular dental office in midtown Manhattan is calling itself a dental spa, indicating that it can actually be a very positive, relaxing experience. For comfortable dentistry in the midtown area, check out 209 NYC Dental.

I’m Getting Married in Manhattan…

Yes it seems that midtown Manhattan is a recommended location for a wedding.  Indeed, according to a recent article by Andrea Billups about the five most sacred places to tie the knot in the United States, St. Patrick’s Cathedral, located in Midtown Manhattan, is THE top choice.  It is known for its elevated grandiose nature.  This sanctuary was built in the style of neo-Gothism and provides for a lengthy walk from the entrance to the altar.  Indeed, it looks as imposing as if royalty were to wed there.  With soaring ceilings and historical tale, it truly is an unforgettable choice for nuptials.

The other four that Billups listed were: The Cathedral Church of St. John the Divine, also in New York City, followed by Number 3: The Washington National Cathedral, New Orleans’ St. Louis Cathedral and finally the Thorncrown Chapel in Eureka Springs, Arkansasa.

Midtown Manhattan Magnates

by Edsel Little

It shouldn’t be too surprising to bump into celebrities here and there in Midtown Manhattan.  Just last week rapper J. Cole was hanging around near the area’s Footaction store.  Some people even came from as far as New Jersey to get a glimpse of the star. One fan even referred to him as “relatable,” saying that he “connects with his fans,” and greets them.  Many others do not. Cole was in the area for the concert he played at Irving Plaza.

For those who want to try to get a glimpse of celebrities on a regular basis in Midtown Manhattan, The Polo Bar – owned by Ralph Lauren –could be the place to go. It appears that Christie Brinkley amongst others has been spotted there.  Enjoy a relaxing sip of a Moscow Mule with your roast chicken, smoothed mashed potatoes and head of garlic.

New York’s Caribbean Week

The aim of Caribbean Week – that takes place in New York between June 1^st and June 7^th – is to “showcase the warmth, spirit and vibrancy of the Caribbean.” To do that, the Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO) that organizes the week-long festival, offers wonderful events for the city’s inhabitants and tourists. 

For example, Caribbean chefs will be teaching about their skills and work at the Celebrity Chef Program throughout midtown.  Then there is the Caribbean Diaspora Forum which today is assembling midtown government officials with Caribbean New Yorkers to talk about tourism and developments and how that impacts those living there.

And then there is the Rum and Rhythm Benefit and Auction designed to help midtown’s students. 

The entire week is a lot of fun and a fascinating way to learn about life in the Caribbean, from the heart of New York City.