Manhattan

Sometimes, I look at my two sultry felines and think to myself, “Wow. They really have it made.” And sometimes, just sometimes, I get a wee bit envious of their lavish catnaps on the fuzzy sheepskin rug in my bedroom, or the fact that they get free, organic food three times a day without having to lift a finger (or would that be paw?).

I’m getting off topic. Kind of. Only because instead of discussing cats, I’m writing today to talk to you about dogs. One dog, actually. A New York City poodle who goes by the name, “Charlie Girl.” This fabulous pooch lives an enviable life, as well, and is portrayed by her owner Elizabeth Frogel in her new, dynamic book, “Charlie Girl: Tails of a Very Original Poodle.” (Would that make her a VOP?)

The deluxe, illustrated book covers all the NYC shenanigans of a “lovable, curious and life-of-the-party poodle.” And yes — Charlie Girl is a real life dog whose owners are author Elizabeth and Elizabeth’s 10-year-old daughter Ava. Together, they live as a happy family in the Upper West Side art deco architectural icon, The Century.

A Little More About the Book:

Recalling the day Elizabeth brought her weeks-old puppy home to New York City, she beams, “During the ride back to town from the breeder, Charlie Girl was completely quiet and just nuzzled in my arms, but the minute we arrived in the City, she sat straight up and had this magical transformation. She was mesmerized by the lights. And she looked right into my eyes and smiled. I knew at that moment Charlie Girl would love New York and that we would have a great life together.”

Today (and in the book), Charlie Girl takes advantage of all the fun her glamorous city has to offer. From long sidewalk strolls with mom, frolicking with her puppy pals, going shopping, dining on delicious food, and taking in art exhibits, Charlie Girl is one happy canine.

The stylish watercolor illustrations by Ashley Quigg are inspired by the décor of Elizabeth’s apartment, historic and contemporary photographs.

A Little More About Elizabeth:

Elizabeth’s accomplishments were propelled by what she describes as “survival mode.” Divorce turned her life upside down, as it does with most people, but there was no self pity, only forward movement. She took charge and committed heart and soul to creating what is now the happiest time of her life.

Divorce allowed Elizabeth to live at her authentic best, and with encouragement from her family and a loyal group of strong friends, Elizabeth’s life started to shine like the Chrysler Building. Charlie Girl evolved out of sheer love. During the emotionally charged years when Elizabeth was trying to conceive a child, she developed her special bond with Charlie Girl, who served as a constant companion and partner in NYC adventures. Charlie Girl the book captures the essence of that pinnacle time.

Where to Buy:

Head to Bergorf-Goodman (who happens to be a character in the book, as well) if you’re interested in flipping through the pages or buying. Bergorf-Goodman is the exclusive NYC department store carrying Charlie Girl.

Not lucky enough to live near NYC’s Bergdorf-Goodman? The book is also available online at Amazon.com.

Charlie Girl supports the Puccini Foundation, which is dedicated to the hope of a future for pets and people – cancer free under one umbrella.

I love the concept of the Charlie Girl book because it’s lighthearted and breezy. I think we all need more lighthearted and breezy things in our lives, especially in a world where urgent deadlines reign supreme and coffee is gulped down for its caffeine properties (instead of enjoyed for its smooth textures and rich aromas. Hey, I’m a coffee and an animal person).

By Wendy Rose Gould

Even though NYC is a major tourist destination, many locals find themselves eager to skip town and explore the rest of the world instead of hanging out in the city. There’s no shame in that, of course — the world is a place to be seen! With that said, though, it’s easy to forget — or ignore the fact that — the big apple is a culture mecca loaded with enough hotspots, events and must-sees to keep you busy year round.

Summer, naturally, is an ideal time to get out and do things in the city with best friends, lovers, family members or even by yourself. We’ve rounded up a list of our favorite, Manhattan-based summer 2012 activities that are all absolutely free.

New York Philharmonic Concerts in The Parks Gorgeous music amidst the greenery? It doesn’t get any more perfect than that. Haul yourself out of your abode and take advantage of the New York Philharmonic’s 47th season of Concerts in the Park. The Philharmonic will perform in Manhattan at Central Park on Friday, July 13 and Monday, July 16 at 8 p.m.
River to River Festival The River to River Festival is an annual event that boasts over 25 indoor and outdoor productions throughout Lower Manhattan and Governor’s Island. From theater to dance to visual art to film and music, there’s a little something for everyone. One of this summer’s most anticipated and talked about events for the River to River Festival is composer Julian Wachner’s “Inverted Sky,” a kite show that takes place in Rockefeller Park on July 2. Events, locations and times vary, so check the events schedule.
Metropolitan Opera’s Five Borough Recital Series One of NYC’s most treasured summer traditions is the Met’s Summer Recital Series, free to the public. This year’s series includes six performances that’ll take place in parks across all five of the city’s boroughs. It all kicks off with the Wednesday, July 25 concert in Central Park at 8 p.m., which features soprano Danielle de Niese, bass-baritone John Del Carlo and tenor Dimitri Pittas. The second Manhattan performance will take place at Jackie Robinson Park on Tuesday, August 7 at 7 p.m.
Oval Lawn Series and Mad. Sq. Kids at Madison Square Park Celebrate the 10th anniversary of The Madison’s Square Park Conservancy’s free outdoor concerts this year by attending at least one of them. Great for both children and adults, this year’s series includes jazz, blue grass and soul performances featuring acclaimed artists. The Oval Lawn Series events take place every Wednesday evening now through August 8 (times vary) and the Mad. Sq. Kids series occur Tuesday and Thursday mornings at 10:30 a.m. through August 9.
Weekend Walks The Department of Transportation has joined forces with various community ensembles to host a variety of family-friendly activities that include everything from music performances to arts/crafts, classes to youth programming and beyond. The goal is to promote healthy, safe and fun recreation for families. This year, 18 community groups have planned their respective weekends that’ll take place now through October. Visit NYC.Gov or call 311 for more information.
NYC Parks Summer Movie Series Pop some popcorn, a partner and saunter over to one of your local parks to partake in an outdoor viewing of film favorites. The Summer Movie Series will host events in various boroughs. Manhattan viewings include: - The Wizard of Oz: July 2,  5 p.m. @ Bryant Park - On The Waterfront: July 9, 5 p.m. @ Bryant Park - Hoodwinked Too: July 11, 8 p.m. @ Alfred E. Smith Park - Cinema Paradiso: July 11, 8:30 p.m. @ Pier I in Riverside Park South - Kung Fu Panda 2: July 13, 8:30 p.m. @ Pier 46 - Persepolis: July 13, 8:30 p.m. @ Pier I in Riverside Park South - Roman Holiday: July 16, 5 p.m. @ Bryant Park
- Flying Scotsman: July 18, 8:30 p.m. @ Pier I in Riverside Park South - The Muppets (2011): July 20, 8 p.m. @ Bellevue South Park - Superman, The Movie: July 20, 8:30 p.m. @ Pier 46 - The Maltese Falcon: July 23, 5 p.m. @ Bryant Park - Quicksilver: July 25, 8:30 p.m. @ Pier I in Riverside Park South - Hop: July 25, 8 p.m. @ J. Hood Wright Park - Hugo: July 27, 8:30 p.m. @ Pier 46 - Rebel Without A Cause: July 30, 5 p.m. @ Bryant Park - Amelie: August 1, 8:30 p.m. @ Pier I in Riverside Park South - Puss in Boots: August 3, 8:30 p.m. @ Pier 46 - The Adventures of Robinhood: August 6, 5 p.m. @ Bryant Park - The Smurfs: August 8, 8 p.m. @ Hamilton Fish Recreation Center - Pee Wee’s Big Adventure: August 8, 8:30 p.m. @ Pier I in Riverside Park South - Dolphin Tale: August 10, 8 p.m. @ Bellevue South Park - Rango: August 10, 8:30 p.m. @ Pier 46 - All About Even: August 13, 5 p.m. @ Bryant Park - Triplets of Bellville: August 15, 8 p.m. @ Pier I in Riverside Park South - Back to the Future: August 17, 8:30 p.m. @ Pier 46 - Hoodwinked Too: August 18, 8 p.m. @ J. Hood Wright Park - Raiders of the Lost Ark: August 20, 5 p.m. @ Bryant Park - The Smurfs: August 24, 8:30 p.m. @ Pier 46 - Jules and Jim: September 6, 8:30 p.m. @ Low Memorial Library, Columbia University

By Wendy Rose Gould

Graci to Urban Daddy for rightfully comparing the new spot at One Little West 12th, oddly called The Collective, to something the Mad Hatter might muster up. The giant warehouse space looks like someone stuck a bar at one end then sneezed out a hodgepodge of tables throughout. The Collective might have thought to call themselves “The Collection” as they appear to have “collected” random items from other city destinations like LES’ graffiti, and Urban Outfitter’s pendant lights and from Chelsea, some faux Eames chairs. (Or maybe they are real. How would I know?) But the windows are wonderful and the randomness somewhat endearing. It might be the perfect place for the city variety to gather, er…collect, for post-workday wine or a cocktail before a night on the town.

From the masterminds who brought you STK and Bagatelle (The ONE Group), The Collective is bottle-service free and serves cholesterol heavy American fare (see also: drunk food) that just might give you a heart attack. I still cannot figure out why they added soy kettle chips to a menu that has blue cheese tater tots and short rib sliders, and I gave up chips for lent, but apparently, they are amazing. The menu offers a “Taste of The Hoods” with different entrees from each city neighborhood. (The Harlem is chicken and waffles with gravy. The Upper West side is lamb shank with fruity couscous. And so on…) So you won’t emerge skinny or ready to mix with B&Ters at Meatpacking clubs; but you’ll emerge happy. And that’s all that really matters anyway.

The Collective 1 Little West 12th Street  212.255.9717

German-born luxury women’s apparel retailer, Escada, was bought Megha Mittel after filing for bankruptcy in August 2009. Megha Mittal, daughter-in-law of he Lakshimi Mattal (CEO of the world’s largest steel company and 8th richest person in the world), plans to turn the brand from red-carpet only to everyday ready-to-wear.

Maybe that explains the deeply discounted pieces at the Escada Sample Sale, at the Metropolitan Pavilion on West 19th Street. Luxury clothing and some accessories up to 90% off retail values. Yesterday, the apparel section offered a large variety with timeless classics and wardrobe backbones as well as the marked Escada evening dresses. There are many pieces for work, interview or a day of shopping. Our Editor scored a pristine English riding-style jacket for $95 marked down from $950. The accessory selection was slimmer. Shoes were marked down, most of them 90% off retail price.

The sale drew a more conservative crowd of middle-aged, well-dressed professionals, which may explain how the organization remained in tact. Sizes are plentiful and staff are friendly and there to answer questions about sizes, prices and damages. Be prepared to check your belongings at the door. All sales are final.
       

WHEN: 3/7 – 3/10 Sun-Tues. (10-7), Wed. (10-5)

WHERE: 110 W. 19th St. between 6th & 7th Ave

Emma Dinzebach