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Maria Kochetkova Begs the Audience to “Catch Her if You Can” in Her Most Recent Project Since Leaving the San Francisco Ballet

Ballerina Maria Kochetkova and Sebastian Kloborg dance together in Catch Her if You Can.

In a series of dizzyingly graceful pirouettes, leaps, and arabesques, a stunned audience watched as 35-year-old ballerina Maria Kochetkova impressed in her performance of Catch Her if You Can in an intimate showing at the Joyce Theater in New York City. Displaying both artistry and strength through her movements, the former principal ballerina of the world-renowned San Francisco Ballet, was accompanied by four of her friends in the highly anticipated hour and a half long showcase, which was composed of…

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Auto Travel

THE SEVEN LAMBORGHINIS THAT TRAVELED THE ARTIC CIRCLE

THE SEVEN LAMBORGHINIS THAT TRAVELED THE ARTIC CIRCLE

Following excursions to Andalusia, Transylvania, the Norwegian fjords and Iceland, the summer 2019 Lamborghini expedition enjoyed the stunning roads and incomparable landscapes of the Lofoten Islands in Norway. The Lamborghini Avventura event, as it is dubbed by the Italian automaker, is a private rally organized by Lamborghini to visit the most interesting roads around the world. This new and interesting locale has allowed for the all new Huracán EVO to be put through its paces and have its dynamics wonders…

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Real Estate

277 Fifth Avenue, the Newest and Most Luxurious Residential Building on New York City’s Iconic Fifth Avenue

Penthouse living room at 277 Fifth Avenue

With floor to ceiling windows stretching across each room, as well as an array of amenities that make it feel like you’re living in a high-end resort, 277 Fifth Avenue is not only the tallest residential building on Fifth Avenue, with 55 stories, but it is also one of the most luxurious. Located in Manhattan’s lively NoMad neighborhood, just north of Madison Square Park, the building itself is hard to miss. Aside from standing out for its height, the building’s…

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Philanthropy

4 Organizations Fighting for Our Oceans

4 Organizations Fighting for Our Oceans

As the threat of climate change continues to worsen with each passing day, it’s important now more than ever to take action and spread awareness towards issues of environmental conservation and sustainability. While there are many aspects of the ecosystem that need tending to during this time of environmental crisis, the ocean is a major one to focus on seeing as it makes up nearly three-quarters of the Earth’s surface. Luckily, several organizations have recently been developed entirely around this…

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Health & Wellness Real Estate

Healthy Living Takes Center Stage at Troon Pacific’s Residence 2646

Healthy Living Takes Center Stage at Troon Pacific's Residence 2646

Situated on Union Street in San Francisco, California, is the city’s latest wellness-inspired, eco-friendly home, known simply as Residence 2646. This newly constructed residence is like few others, offering benefits to its occupants that have been otherwise ignored until recent times. When one procures a home, it is common place to put the aesthetic appeal above other elements that may affect the wellness of the buyer and their family. Troon Pacific built Residence 2646 in order to relieve you of…

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Travel Yachts

TOP 10 LUXURY YACHT EXPERIENCES TO CHARTER IN SUMMER 2019

TOP 10 LUXURY YACHT EXPERIENCES TO CHARTER IN SUMMER 2019

Camper & Nicholsons is the global leader in all luxury yachting activities, specializing in the sale, purchase, charter, marketing, management and construction of the finest yachts in the world. The company’s team and staff all share a genuine passion for being at sea and possess a range of experience and knowledge far beyond anyone else in the industry. This summer, embark on remarkable adventures as you explore remote and untouched waters, islands and ports. Camper & Nicholsons has over 200…

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Epicure People

Chika Tillman: From Wall Street Banker to Pastry Chef

Chika Tillman: From Wall Street Banker to Pastry Chef

“I really loved the job as a banker, but the first thing I checked every morning in the newspaper is not the stock market section but the restaurant section,” said Chika Tillman, founder and head pastry chef of ChikaLicious Dessert Bar. In the late 90s, when Tillman was working amid the hustle and bustle of Wall Street, in a suit and heels, she would attend the evening classes at French Culinary Institute after work. Having helped out in the kitchen…

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Epicure People

Chef Samuel Clonts: a Modernized Kaiseki Dining Experience at Uchū

Chef Samuel Clonts: a Modernized Kaiseki Dining Experience at Uchū

Having come to realize his love for food at a very young age, Chef Samuel Clonts started down his cooking career by helping his mom out with everyday dinner. With a huge passion for food and the process of making food, it did not take long for Clonts to begin cooking professionally by attending a culinary program at high school while at the same time working as a dishwasher. The 15-year-old Arizona boy never expected that in five years, he…

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Auto Aviation Lifestyle

The Automotive World’s Most Extravagant Party

McCall’s Motorworks Revival

Once again one of the most highly anticipated parties of the year will return to Monterey California to kickoff famed Car Week. Gordon McCall‘s Motorworks Revival’s 28th incarnation is set to provide Monterey Car Week pilgrims with an experience like no other. The party, which looks to be as if it was inspired by Scott Fitzgerald’s the Great Gatsby, is what has inspired countless Hangar Parties around the globe. “Our 2019 event is set to be one of our most…

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Auto Lifestyle

The 17th Annual Celebration of The Quail, A Motorsports Gathering

The 17th Annual Celebration of The Quail, A Motorsports Gathering

A spectacular lineup of over 200 motorcars will permeate the vibrant and serene fairways of Quail Lodge & Golf Club during famed Monterey Car Week on Friday, August 16, 2019. An event that allows for motorsport enthusiasts to share their interests with like-minded individuals surrounded by a large array of the world’s rarest classic and superlative automobiles; that is exactly what The Quail, A Motorsports Gathering is all about. To create a haven for car collectors, enthusiasts and authorities alike…

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Maria Kochetkova Begs the Audience to “Catch Her if You Can” in Her Most Recent Project Since Leaving the San Francisco Ballet

In a series of dizzyingly graceful pirouettes, leaps, and arabesques, a stunned audience watched as 35-year-old ballerina Maria Kochetkova impressed in her performance of Catch Her if You Can in an intimate showing at the Joyce Theater in New York City. Displaying both artistry and strength through her movements, the former principal ballerina of the world-renowned San Francisco Ballet, was accompanied by four of her friends in the highly anticipated hour and a half long showcase, which was composed of eight distinctly unique pieces.

Kochetkova, who was born in Moscow, grew up studying at the prestigious Bolshoi Ballet Academy, but most recently she drew attention after announcing her departure from the San Francisco Ballet at the end of the 2018 season and after 11 years as a principal dancer with the company. Her reason: to pursue her own projects, the first of which being Catch Her if You Can.

“I had the most amazing career at San Francisco Ballet and dancing at American Ballet Theater at the same time for a few years, but it’s never enough time to do everything that you want,” explained Kochetkova in a YouTube video posted by the Joyce Theater. “Leaving San Francisco Ballet gave me the opportunity to finally be able to do my own project.”

Maria Kochetkova as "Masha Fierce"

In the YouTube video, of which was posted leading up to the performance’s New York City debut, Kochetkova also discussed wanting to expand the perceptions that people typically have about what ballet is through showing what ballet is like now. “I love ballet, it’s part of our history. Ballet is not just Swan Lake and it’s not just Sleeping Beauty. Ballet can be different, ballet can be contemporary, ballet can be exciting, ballet can be theater,” explained Kochetkova in the three-minute-long video.

Having become accustomed to dancing classical ballet roles while performing as Aurora in Sleeping Beauty and Juliet in Romeo and Juliet, throughout her and her friends’ performances in Catch Her if You Can, Kochetkova and crew entranced the audience as they swiftly moved between different styles of ballet. Almost as if to ease the audience into what was to come later in the night’s performance, to start off the show, Kochetkova along with former soloist of The Royal Danish Ballet, Sebastian Kloborg, danced a classically inspired and technically impressive duet to the tune of J. S. Bach. But from piece to piece, Catch Her if You Can revealed a wide-array of ballet styles that gradually pushed past the boundaries of classical ballet by incorporating contemporary ballet choreography by Myles Thatcher, as well as choreography with a more modern twist.

Kochetkova posing at the Joyce Theater

The first piece of the night to truly showcase Kochetkova’s versatility as a ballerina was a performance titled Degunino and choreographed by Marcus Morau. Dressed in a sheer black long-sleeved bodysuit (that she can be seen wearing in the photo above), Kochetkova masterfully showcased her strength and fluidity by dancing a mix of sharp gestures and elongated body movements all while wearing her pointe shoes. Although only 5-feet tall, Kochetkova easily appeared as if she were two feet taller, deceiving the audience and causing some surprise when she later took the stage with Drew Jacoby, who is 5-feet-11-inches, in a piece titled Rachel, Nevada.

Maria Kochetkova and Drew Jacoby dance side-by-side in Catch Her if You Can.

Ditching the point shoes and instead opting for a pair of ballet slippers, Jacoby and Kochetkova danced side-by-side wearing unapologetically pink, skin-tight bodysuits to the tune of percussion music in this avant-garde performance choreographed by Jacoby. With the black and white illusionary background in constant flux, Rachel, Nevada was definitely the most fun and the most experimental piece of the showcase.

To end the night and right before Kochetkova took the stage for the last time, a Facebook Messenger conversation between her and choreographer Jérôme Bel was illuminated onto the backdrop of the stage. In the silly, yet thoughtful discussion shown between the two, Kochetkova and Bel joked about their friend, Black Swan choreographer Benjamin Millepied, while also delving into Kochetkova’s ballet training at the Bolshoi Ballet Academy, her future career ambitions, and her thoughts about her own funeral.

Answering the question that has plagued the ballet world since her departure from the San Francisco Ballet, Kochetkova explained her desire to direct a ballet company one day, but also admitted that she doesn’t have the patience to teach ballet. Each of these questions asked by Bel were meant to provide inspiration for his choreography in the final piece danced by Kochetkova titled Masha Machine.

After the conversation came to an end, Kochetkova walked onto the stage wearing baggy pants and a black shirt. Her hair was even in a ponytail, instead of the traditional ballet bun that she had worn the rest of the performance.

With no music to accompany her, Kochetkova danced very minimal, sharp, and technical movements while speaking into a microphone. “I never look out into the audience, I never look at anyone on stage directly. I don’t think anyone has taught me this,” said Kochetkova to the silent audience.

Catch Her if You Can ran between July 16 and July 21 at the Joyce Theater in New York City.

Featured Photo and third photo by Rachel Neville Photography, first photo by Annabel Mehran, and second photo by Magus Unnar.

All photographs Provided by Kornberg PR Press Materials.

THE SEVEN LAMBORGHINIS THAT TRAVELED THE ARTIC CIRCLE

Following excursions to Andalusia, Transylvania, the Norwegian fjords and Iceland, the summer 2019 Lamborghini expedition enjoyed the stunning roads and incomparable landscapes of the Lofoten Islands in Norway. The Lamborghini Avventura event, as it is dubbed by the Italian automaker, is a private rally organized by Lamborghini to visit the most interesting roads around the world. This new and interesting locale has allowed for the all new Huracán EVO to be put through its paces and have its dynamics wonders utilized to their full potential.

After departing Harstad, the motorcade of seven Lamborghinis transverse through virgin landscapes as they made their way to the archipelago. The journey, which saw the five Huracáns and two Urus cross an archipelago of islands by tunnels and roads that appeared to float on water, ended up providing vistas of some of the oldest mountains in Europe. Incredible changes in scenery offered a glimpse into coastal plains and stunningly picturesque bridges.

Most importantly of all, the location was a celebration of quiet roads embedded in the natural habitat of countless flora and fauna. The Lofoten Islands are home to ample amounts of wildlife, such as sea eagles, whales, orcas and codfish. One of the motorcade’s original stops was in the village of Henningsvær, famous for it’s location at the base of a cliff overhanging the sea.

As the Huracáns traveled south they encountered landscapes covered with ‘pyramid-shaped wooden racks’ which are utilized by inhabitants to dry fish from winter through the early weeks of summer. The first day of travel came to an end in the historical village of Nusfjord, which is well preserved in an authentic manner. A prominent characteristic of this particular village are the sea-front Rorbu, which are red daytime dwellings used by fishermen when they are not at sea.

On day two, the motorcade traveled to the beach side village of Ramberg on the island of Flakstadøya. The island is well regarded for its large, white, sandy beach that enjoys crystal clear water. As the Lamborghinis continue along coastal roads they reach the relatively large town of Svolvær, which is home to nearly 5,000 people and is considered to be ‘the oldest town in the Arctic Circle’. After about 400 miles of driving the convoy of Huracáns ended their journey back in Harstad, where they enjoyed the vista from the summit of Mount Keipen.

Images & Video courtesy of: Lamborghini

277 Fifth Avenue, the Newest and Most Luxurious Residential Building on New York City’s Iconic Fifth Avenue

With floor to ceiling windows stretching across each room, as well as an array of amenities that make it feel like you’re living in a high-end resort, 277 Fifth Avenue is not only the tallest residential building on Fifth Avenue, with 55 stories, but it is also one of the most luxurious.

Located in Manhattan’s lively NoMad neighborhood, just north of Madison Square Park, the building itself is hard to miss. Aside from standing out for its height, the building’s exterior, which was designed by internationally acclaimed architect Rafael Viñoly, is absolutely eye-catching with its delicate mix of glass and indigo colored concrete paneling.

But the allure doesn’t end there. Rather, the building’s interior architecture is what makes it truly special.

Designed by Jeffrey Beers and Jeffrey Beers International, the inside of 277 Fifth Avenue is both stylish and modern, bringing together a cohesive blend of incredible architecture and artistry – aspects which are made apparent immediately upon coming into the building’s lobby.

Home to a beautiful floor-to-ceiling bookshelf curated by Assouline Publishing, stepping into the lobby feels as if you are entering an atmosphere of sophistication and warmth. These key features are what welcome you in after a long day away from home, cultivated by Beers to create a residential living experience focused on hospitality.

Lobby bookshelf at 277 Fifth Avenue

Leading you from the lobby to the residences, the hallways are composed of dark grey carpet, bordered by a dark flame finished granite, and a cream wallpaper lining the walls – all together creating a dramatic yet elegant contrast in colors.

“[Dale Chihuly] taught me about color, warmth, and the importance of emotion in design,” explains Beers in an interview with The Extravagant. Chihuly, a master glassblower and artist, mentored Beers while he was a student at the prestigious Rhode Island School of Design.

But in addition to gaining both inspiration and industry knowledge from Chihuly, Beers also attributes his aptitude for understanding proportion, the use of space, and the importance of clean, modern lines to I.M. Pei and Oscar Niemeyer, who he says are two of the best in their field.

Master bathroom at 277 Fifth Avenue

Once in the apartment, it is nearly impossible to decide which is more stunning, the view of the New York City skyline (highlighted by the fact that with a maximum of four rooms per floor, every apartment is a corner room) or the interior architecture itself. Fortunately, as a result of Beers’ design choices, the two complement each other incredibly well, neither one overpowering the other – an incredible feat considering the iconic view of the Empire State Building that the rooms on the north side of the building share, in addition to the impressive views of downtown and the One World Trade Center that the rooms on the south side of the building look out to.

“The floor to ceiling windows and their incredible views drove our design to be handsome and inviting,” explains Beers. “Our intention was to design around the views, and therefore, the accents, materiality and furnishings are, in essence, a backdrop to New York’s cityscape.”

This intention by Beers to create a balance between the building’s view of New York City and the interior architecture extends from the bedrooms, to the kitchen and the bathroom as well, allowing for a completely stylish and contemporary living space.

But perhaps the space where Beers’ focus on creating sleek and modern lines is most apparent throughout the apartment, is the kitchen.

Open-layout kitchen at 277 Fifth Avenue

The open-layout space, which extends out into the living room, features Calacatta Sachelo polished marble slab countertops and backsplash, white oak cabinets, as well as an island countertop with waterfall edges. “In essence, the kitchen design is suited for the city resident looking for ease, comfort, space, and efficiency,” says Beers.

Aside from the architectural design of the individual apartments, the residential living experience at 277 Fifth Avenue is rounded out by the amenity floors and everything they have to offer.

Connected by a beautiful white staircase that can be seen in the photo below, the amenity spaces consist of a fitness center, with a training/yoga studio, a men’s and women’s spa, with a sauna and steam room, access to a private dining room, a furnished outdoor terrace, a media lounge, and a kids’ space – all coming together to create a comfortable living and family environment.

Spiral staircase connecting the amenities floors at 277 Fifth Avenue

“Your home is your oasis from the madness of the city; your space to be yourself and to connect with your family and friends,” says Beers. “As a hospitality designer, I want to create spaces that feel like escape or theater. While I want the guests to feel relaxed and welcome, I also want them to feel transported away from their day to day lives.”

Having officially launched the ambitious project in 2017, the lavish residential apartment building is in the final stages of construction and has opened its doors to New York City residents.

Currently, there is a wide-range of apartments available including one-bedroom, one-bathroom units starting at $1,875,000, two-bedroom, two-bathroom units starting at $3,465,000, three-bedroom, three-bathroom units starting at $4,725,000, as well as a four-bedroom, four-and-a-half-bathroom penthouse priced at $27,000,000.

The units themselves range in size from 828 square feet to 4,520 square feet, and each apartment has an incredible corner view of the New York City skyline, with the lowest available room being on the 17th floor, and the highest on the 55th floor.

The building’s factsheet can be found here, where it is also possible to see the floorplans of each available residence and what makes the spaces so special.

“I love this project so much that my wife and I have decided to move into one of the residences this fall,” admits Beers.

Featured photo, photo two, and photo three, all provided by THREE MARKS

4 Organizations Fighting for Our Oceans

As the threat of climate change continues to worsen with each passing day, it’s important now more than ever to take action and spread awareness towards issues of environmental conservation and sustainability. While there are many aspects of the ecosystem that need tending to during this time of environmental crisis, the ocean is a major one to focus on seeing as it makes up nearly three-quarters of the Earth’s surface. Luckily, several organizations have recently been developed entirely around this issue of aquatic conservation to help lessen the detrimental effects of global climate change.

4 Organizations Fighting for Our Oceans
4 Organizations Fighting for Our Oceans

One of these organizations, the Save Our Seas Foundation, stands as a fine example of just how much of an impact can be made with determined, hard-working people banding together in an effort to solve a major issue. Primarily, this philanthropic organization based in Geneva, Switzerland, functions as a means of funding for scientific projects being conducted by passionate researchers, educators, and conservationists all over the world, regardless of location. While of course the Save Our Seas Foundation is concerned with the overall wellbeing of the ocean, they have a specific focus on protecting the lives of oceanic creatures like sharks and rays. However, this specific shark and ray research is managed by the Save Our Seas Foundation at their research and education centers located in the USA, South Africa, and the Seychelles.

In an interview with the Save Our Seas Foundation CEO Michael Scholl, I inquired further about the foundation itself and why saving the ocean is important in our day and age. As a man of scientific background himself, Scholl explained to me that sharks and rays represent one of the ancient groups of vertebrates with them having drifted through our ocean for 400 million years. This enduring presence coupled by their significant level of value in the marine food chain has made these members of marine life essential in the balance of the ocean’s ecosystem. For the continuance of our beloved ocean, funding, supporting research, and conservation projects on the most endangered or threatened species or populations of sharks and rays are necessary. “There’s a lot of interesting projects, but I would say a stand-out one is working to try to find a solution to the interaction between human and shark,” Scholl said of the Shark Spotters founded projects in Cape Town, South Africa, “It tries to find a new solution to an old problem, but a solution that’s not harmful to the environment or for sharks, so that’s an interesting project we’ve been funding for the past eight years now. On the other hand, in 2019, we supported around 40 projects in 50 countries with a specific focus on sawfish, wedgefish and guitarfish, which as some of the most threatened species in our oceans. Surprisingly, little is known about these shark-like rays…”

4 Organizations Fighting for Our Oceans
4 Organizations Fighting for Our Oceans

Another organization that works intimately with aquatic issues is Ocean Conservancy. This group tends to focus on long-term effects of their efforts to help sustain the ocean through tactics that “promote a healthy ocean, abundant wildlife and thriving coastal communities.” Although based in Washington DC, Ocean Conservancy is a global organization that aims to reach every location possible so that there is maximum effort being put towards this current vital issue. Ocean Conservancy strives to help create policies in advocacy for the ocean at state government levels as well as the federal level. Like the Save Our Seas Foundation, Ocean Conservancy also relies on heavy scientific research and aims to protect the oceanic wildlife that are struggling to adapt to the constantly growing effects of climate change.

Additionally, Ocean Conservancy has a lot of internal programs within the organization that deal with even more specific issues rather than just the entire ocean in general. Some of these include programs like Trash Free Seas, Restoring the Gulf of Mexico, Sustainable Fisheries, and Confronting Ocean Acidification, just to name a few. Their program entitled “Protecting the Arctic” serves to tackle the rapid warming of the Arctic since it’s now heating twice as quickly as the rest of the world. To help solve this issue, Ocean Conservancy has come up with a multitude of solutions. For example, to fight dangerous offshore drilling in the Arctic waters, Ocean Conservancy works to oppose new leases for oil and gas companies to expand this harmful practice. In addition, they are also working to make Arctic Ocean protection an international issue by writing up treaties, developing marine-protected networks, and ensuring “the best scientific information available to cultivate management plans for this remote and rapidly changing region.”

4 Organizations Fighting for Our Oceans
4 Organizations Fighting for Our Oceans

A smaller, yet just as thorough organization that also handles issues of ocean conservation and sustainability is the Surfrider Foundation. Founded in Malibu, California in 1984, The Surfrider Foundation has since grown from a small advocacy group to a large-scale activist organization that currently holds over 50,000 members and almost 100 chapters around the world. Unlike the previous two organizations I have just discussed, Surfrider tends to focus more on the ocean itself, like improving water quality, beach preservation, and beach access, rather than devoting most of their resources to aquatic wildlife. However, they do also work to maintain marine ecosystems, as well.

While Surfrider offers several programs to participate in, Rise Above Plastics stands as an extremely relevant project to undertake in our modern day and age. Although most people don’t think much of their personal plastic consumption, it’s estimated that the average person in North America uses at least 220 pounds of plastic each year, according to The Globalist. To combat this striking epidemic of un-biodegradable waste, the program Rise Above Plastics works to protect the marine environment by advocating for more recycling, reduction of one-time use plastics, and generally raising more awareness on the issue. And, in addition to working internally within the Surfrider Foundation on plastic pollution, Surfrider provides easily accessible tips and guides online that practically anyone could follow. It’s with this type of thoughtfulness and thoroughness that has allowed Surfrider to blossom into the foundation that it is today.

4 Organizations Fighting for Our Oceans

Finally, the more online-based organization, eco-nnect, works diligently to engage and educate users on the environment around them. The website is filled with articles, videos, and quizzes, as well as petitions pertaining to certain issues that anyone could support directly online through the use of external sites like Change.org. For example, the current petition listed on the organization’s site has 1,550 supporters as of now and is entitled “Ban Shark Fishing in the EU #bansharkmeat.” This petition listed by eco-nnect, like the other ocean conservation organizations previously mentioned, aims to protect the wildlife of the sea; more specifically, sharks. “Currently no EU country has any shark fishing regulation, or legislation advocating for transparency in regards to fish meat! So we started a petition,” as noted in the petition’s mission statement.

Although eco-nnect isn’t as well-known or as well-populated as some of the other organizations already mentioned, it serves as a great stepping stone for those who wish to gain more education on the environment before deciding to make any big moves. The articles on the site pertain to interesting and relevant topics for a young audience, which is essential to propel this conservation and sustainability movement forward. Additionally, the eco-nnect quizzes allow for an online interaction between the user and their thirst for environmental knowledge in a fun, light-hearted manner.

While of course there are a countless number of other organizations that could have made this list, it’s important to recognize a few in particular for their dedicated and passionate drive that has led to their fantastic environmental contributions. From the 300 projects supported by the Save Our Seas Foundation since its inception in 2003 to the programs led by Ocean Conservancy and Surfrider to the online presence of econnect, people all over the world can learn and participate in efforts to help protect the oceans and its ecosystems all thanks to devoted organizations like these.

Healthy Living Takes Center Stage at Troon Pacific’s Residence 2646

Situated on Union Street in San Francisco, California, is the city’s latest wellness-inspired, eco-friendly home, known simply as Residence 2646. This newly constructed residence is like few others, offering benefits to its occupants that have been otherwise ignored until recent times. When one procures a home, it is common place to put the aesthetic appeal above other elements that may affect the wellness of the buyer and their family. Troon Pacific built Residence 2646 in order to relieve you of these worrying issues, as the home offers numerous health oriented amenities including ventilation outlets, air filtration systems, Everpure water filtration system and shielded cables that limit the risk of Electro Magnetic Fields.

Healthy Living Takes Center Stage at Troon Pacific's Residence 2646

On the border between the Cow Hollow and Pacific Heights neighborhoods, this pre-certified LEED-platinum abode is expected to be the area’s most sustainably-built property. The house features four bedrooms, an office, a guest suite and an au pair suite, making it the ideal family home. One of the most spectacular aspects of the property, however, are the panoramic views which span across the San Francisco Bay, the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz Island.

“Troon Pacific’s newest wellness-focused home, Residence 2646, is a sustainably-built, technologically-advanced home in San Francisco. The exceptional home was designed to enhance the buyer’s physical, mental and emotional health,” said Gregory Malin, CEO of Troon Pacific. “At Troon Pacific, we’re passionate about building in new and environmentally friendly ways. We achieved this at Residence 2646 by using advanced air filtration systems and by mitigating the use of “red-list” chemicals in the building materials and finishes. Troon Pacific also implements whole-house water filtration systems, open floorplans with an abundance of natural light, environmentally-friendly products and locally sourced materials.”

Healthy Living Takes Center Stage at Troon Pacific's Residence 2646
Healthy Living Takes Center Stage at Troon Pacific's Residence 2646

Once you set foot on Residence 2646’s gated entryway, you are immediately greeted by a finely landscaped walkway with trees overhead and lanterns positioned above in order to highlight the splendor of the home’s outer-facade. You walk straight from the street-level entrance to the home’s main level, which introduces you to ample open living areas with splendid views through a wall of sliding glass doors. Additional features of the main level are a commodious living room, dining room, marble encased powder room, family room and a gourmet kitchen alongside European White Oak hardwood floors and 10-foot ceilings. Residents can easily transverse from floor-to-floor with either the generously sized elevator or the glass-enclosed staircase. A massive operable skylight hangs at the center of the home, brightening the staircase as well as flooding every floor with natural light. Beautiful warm innovative interior design is another aspect at the heart of Troon Pacific homes, which garnered their design language from Malin’s late wife, Charlot, who was one of the most prolific interior designers in California.

The garden-level of the home truly embraces wellness to its fullest as it offers broad wellness functions such as a fitness center, a massage room, a spa with a glass-encased sauna and a steam shower. Furthermore, sliding glass doors open up to a simple yet tasteful hardwood deck that can also function as an outdoor yoga studio. An indoor/outdoor garden area on the first floor presents a full-service wet bar alongside custom cabinets, floating shelves, dishwasher and ice maker.

Healthy Living Takes Center Stage at Troon Pacific's Residence 2646
Healthy Living Takes Center Stage at Troon Pacific's Residence 2646

On the subject of how Residence 2646 is unique from other awe-inspiring projects. Troon Pacific CEO Greg Malin states, “We incorporated a large amount of steel into the home and created an open floorplan that is brought to life by glass walls and wood. Inspired by biophilic design principals, we also love to create an indoor/outdoor connection wherever possible. Achieving this amount of glass on the exterior is very unusual and takes a really good engineer. However, the result is panoramic, unobstructed views on each level and a true connection to nature. It’s one of the things we are proud of.”

The outdoor area behind the house is dual purposed, functioning as an addition to the residence’s wellness center. The vibrant plant life and towering trees integrate together to establish an enclosed sanctuary in the backyard, designed to allow relaxation in an aesthetically pleasing and wellness inducing environment. The backyard is truly an awe-inspiring part of the property as its outdoor entertainment space is defined by a sunken living room complete with a fire pit, radiant-heated seating and a built-in barbeque extension.

Healthy Living Takes Center Stage at Troon Pacific's Residence 2646
Healthy Living Takes Center Stage at Troon Pacific's Residence 2646

The residence’s lower level offers entertainment areas and living spaces that features a media room that has been pre-wired for surround sound, a thermal & humidity-controlled wine tasting room, a laundry room, a mudroom and an AV room designed for mechanical access. Aside from these entertainment spaces, the floor also has an additional guest bedroom with ensuite bathroom and a private entrance. The garage includes a catering area, a pet spa, a Tesla Power Wall and parking for three cars thanks to the addition of room beneath the garage floor that allows residents to conveniently lower a car for easy storage.

When asked about his favorite element in the entire house, Malin said: “It’s a difficult question… I love the main living level; the feeling of connectivity created by the open floorplan, the drama brought on by the stone accent wall, the unique powder room… those elements combined with the stunning entrance is probably what I love the most.”

Healthy Living Takes Center Stage at Troon Pacific's Residence 2646
Healthy Living Takes Center Stage at Troon Pacific's Residence 2646

The main level’s kitchen boasts a broad 30-foot sliding glass wall that opens up to a full-width terrace accompanied by an herb garden and glass guardrail that complements the 180-degree view of the Bay and Golden Gate Bridge. Located at the center of the kitchen is an expansive Boffi island in the latest metallic finish together with waterfall stone edges and breakfast bar seating. The kitchen offers custom cabinets, stone slab countertops and an uninterrupted 20-foot window, which welcomes natural light to flow freely.

Malin walks us through how the innovative, wellness-focused technology is implemented throughout the home. “The house has one of the first Tesla Power Walls installed, which can also serve as a battery backup. We also install a below-grade air and water barrier, which is great for both environmental and wellness reasons. We do that as a precaution because in some cases there are unground streams running along the hillsides; you never know where all the water is being directed, so we are thoughtful. The barrier consists of about six to eight inches of drainage rock and perforated pipes. We actively ventilate those pipes to prevent air pathogens from entering the house. This technique is also used to protect from Radon exposure. We do this for every home because we believe a healthy life is the greatest luxury, and we want to ensure homeowners have the best possible air quality.”

Healthy Living Takes Center Stage at Troon Pacific's Residence 2646
Healthy Living Takes Center Stage at Troon Pacific's Residence 2646

The master bedroom, located on the fourth floor, boasts a custom wood-wrapped vestibule with a double-door entrance that takes you to dual walk-in closet. As soon as you walk in, you are greeted by sliding glass doors that withdraw to a private terrace with outstanding views of both the Bay and the Golden Gate Bridge. The two-sided, transparent fireplace proposes a view straight into the opulent master bath, which includes a Boffi double vanity with mirror enclosed television, a glass-encased water closet, a freestanding bathtub and a shower with full-height glass window that allows for sweeping views of the San Francisco Bay. On the rest of the floor, three additional bedrooms are found with ensuite bathrooms that feature stone walls, countertops and wide stone tile floors.

Lastly, but certainly not least, is the home’s fifth floor, also referred to as the penthouse, which shelters a full bar and entertainment room. The floor includes a refrigerator, a sink and a Terzani ‘School of Light’ chandelier. Additional amenities are a private study with ensuite bathroom, an open-floorplan and a staircase leading up to a breathtaking rooftop deck presenting a fire pit, natural plants, glass guardrails, solar panels and magnificent 360-degree views of San Francisco.

Healthy Living Takes Center Stage at Troon Pacific's Residence 2646

The overflowing sustainability and wellness beneficial applications offer bountiful energy efficiency for the house. Troon Pacific added thermally insulated, double-pane windows and glass doors; ventilation outlets beneath the sinks, as well as in just about every closet and all the shoe cabinets; Energy Star appliances; solar panels; and 90-to-100% heated LED lighting floods throughout. It was of paramount importance to not only make the home fully functional, but also to put the well-being of its residents first and foremost. The following advanced-applications are what makes Residence 2646 a truly remarkable home: a MERV-13 air filtration systems that work to achieve a total air change every two-to-three hours; a grey water system that accumulates, purifies and recycles water for landscape irrigation; and a Everpure water filtration system all through the home. Furthermore, shielded cable was implemented in all bedrooms to diverge the potential risk of Electro Magnetic Fields (EMF).

“We installed a hidden whole-garden Sonance system,” says Malin. “There is an approximately 30-inch subwoofer buried underground with numerous satellite speakers, which gives a nice depth to the sound in the garden. When we were installing the system, we think the most important thing is that the music can just carry throughout the home to create a seamless experience. You can also program each speaker individually if you wanted.”

Healthy Living Takes Center Stage at Troon Pacific's Residence 2646
Healthy Living Takes Center Stage at Troon Pacific's Residence 2646

Additional innovative technological amenities at Residence 2646 include a Lutron HomeWorks lighting control system, a car charger and a Savant Smart Home automation system, which can be controlled from your iPhone, Android or home-installed iPads. This system performs fine-tuning of the home’s audio, visual, heating and security elements, such as cameras and alarms. When building Residence 2646, it was Troon Pacific’s mission to focus on materials and products that had the least if not any environmental impact. They chose to use products free of red-list chemicals, Declare label products with minimal emissions and a wide-range of extra eco-encouraging systems.

“I don’t like to describe Troon as a developer because I feel there is a negative connotation with that,” said Malin. “I really believe in what we do — we are investing in the communities we care about in a big way. And I hope one day people will look back at the effort and energy we put into the city and be inspired to create healthier, more sustainable homes as well.”

After Labor Day, Residence 2646 will officially be listed on the market for 34 million USD. For more information on the residence, visit: Residence2646.com

Also check out TroonPacific.com to learn more about Troon Pacific’s missions and their innovative and eco-friendly projects in store for the coming future.

On what Malin would like his company to be known for, he states: “as a company that cares as much about the quality and social responsibility of our work, as it does about its profits and business goals.” Malin adds, “I think that’s something not quite understood by many. The quality of these homes and what’s hidden in those walls… the little things that we did because we always strive to be thoughtful. We think it’s important to treat each home as if it’s our own.”

Image Credit: Mikiko Kikuyama

TOP 10 LUXURY YACHT EXPERIENCES TO CHARTER IN SUMMER 2019

Camper & Nicholsons is the global leader in all luxury yachting activities, specializing in the sale, purchase, charter, marketing, management and construction of the finest yachts in the world. The company’s team and staff all share a genuine passion for being at sea and possess a range of experience and knowledge far beyond anyone else in the industry.

This summer, embark on remarkable adventures as you explore remote and untouched waters, islands and ports. Camper & Nicholsons has over 200 itineraries to choose from and you can experience them all aboard the world’s most luxurious and exciting yachts they have to offer, including:

Ocean Emerald – “this iconic superyacht designed by Sir Norman Foster features spectacular, modern design and has two chefs – one French gourmet, the other Thai for an exciting fusion of specialties – as well as a myriad of water toys.”


Saluzi – “at 225-feet long, five decks high and with accommodation for 32 guests, it is one of the largest superyachts based in the Mediterranean – complete with an on-board spa, open-air cinema and striking artwork both inside and wrapped on the outside of the yacht.”


Lamima – “a nautical masterpiece and the world’s largest wooden sailing yacht for charter with an unrivaled crew including spa therapists, PADI instructors and master fishermen.”


Okto – “one of the most recognizable yachts today with its distinctive, stealth-looking hull. Its luxury continues on-board with a cinema saloon, 20-foot infinity pool, spa and gymnasium.”


Camper & Nicholsons has brokers and operators around the world who curate the most exclusive and unmatched yacht and superyacht experiences, each personal and unique to the travelers’ desires. Here are the top 10 picks for the Summer 2019 travel season:

Mediterranean

Island excursions from Albania to Zakynthos 

“Head south from Albania to Corfu and on to the Greek islands of Paxos, Meganisi and Ithaka, all-together visiting nine islands over 10 days. This string of Greek islands offers everything from secluded turquoise bays to lush green mountain sides, and from bustling ports to long forgotten temples and wonders of the ancient world. Bask on the white sand beaches of Antipaxos, enjoy extreme water sports on the west side of Lefkas, venture away from Saranda’s beautiful waterfront to explore ruins of the Forty Saints Monastery and enjoy a breathtaking sunset over neighboring Corfu on the hilltop of 16th century Lëkurësi Castle.”

Discover Venice to Trogir 

“Explore the Adriatic and its islands while experiencing a unique balance of untouched nature and rich cultures; this itinerary has a diverse mix of destinations and scenery. Featuring two national parks and a handful of World Heritage sites and UNESCO protected buildings, the locations visited between Venice and Trogir offer an impressive contrast between the past and present day. Over seven days, discover Traces of dinosaurs, remains of Antiquity and later periods on Veliki Brijun and travel among the almost 700 plant species and 250 bird species in the Brijuni National Park before continuing on to a variety of Croatian ports and ending in the best-preserved Romanesque-Gothic town in Central Europe: Trogir.”

TOP 10 LUXURY YACHT EXPERIENCES TO CHARTER IN SUMMER 2019

Experience the Balearics 

“These Spanish islands in the Western Mediterranean are vibrant, flamboyant and idyllic in equal measure. Lying in blissful sunshine off the east coast of Spain, the Balearic Islands of Mallorca, Ibiza and Menorca enjoy a long summer. On this nine-day luxury charter experience, enjoy the buzzing nightlife in Ibiza, then cruise along the southern coastline and anchor for lunch under the 1,300-foot tall rock island of Isla Verde. Drop anchor in the sweeping circular bay of Puerto Soller and head inland to the mountain town nestled in the ‘valley of oranges,’ the site of 16th century church, Sant Bartomeu, where cobbled streets and squares are bustling with cafes and restaurants. Spend the day enjoying water sports or step ashore for a round of golf, on courses with stunning views of the Sierra de Tramuntana mountain range. Sail from Pollenca to Menorca – Mallorca’s quieter little sister. Spend the day relaxing and swimming in the clear waters, lazily lapping the white sandy beaches of Cala Algayarens and Cala Morell on the north western coast. End in Mallorca, exploring the winding streets and high-end shopping in Palma’s Old Town.”

Northern Europe

TOP 10 LUXURY YACHT EXPERIENCES TO CHARTER IN SUMMER 2019

Outdoor Adventure in Svalbard

“For the wildlife enthusiast, this 14-day experience offers adventures of an epic scale. Svalbard is a wondrous archipelago of dramatic snow-drowned peaks and glaciers, of vast icefields and forbidding icebergs, an elemental place where the perpetual sunlight of summer carries a deeper kind of magic. Svalbard is the northernmost inhabited spot on the planet, far more northerly than any part of Alaska and all but a few of Canada’s Arctic islands. Take a few days to explore the rich terrain of one of Europe’s last great wildernesses and the home of more polar bears than people. Then spend a couple of days cruising and exploring the fjords of the Finnmark coast, passing the Svaerholdtklubben Bird Colony and the unbelievable rock formation of Finnkjerkja. Take a kayak among the thousands of islands of Troms County, one of the least polluted areas of Europe, via its sheltered inland waterway. This region is also great for hiking, fishing and encounters with wildlife such as Otters, Harbor Porpoises, Ptarmigan, Sea Eagles and Lynx.”

TOP 10 LUXURY YACHT EXPERIENCES TO CHARTER IN SUMMER 2019

Navigate Greenland

“This seven-day trip around Greenland will satisfy even the most intrepid explorer. From the Arctic ice desert landscapes in the far north, to the Atlantic influences and farmlands of the south, a distinct cultural and climatic diversity shapes Greenland’s geographical vastness. The yacht’s crew will provide transport from the airport via luxury land-cruiser vans and a delicious and warming welcome buffet with drinks upon arrival. Then, it’s off to Nuuk, the capital and largest city of Greenland with a population of 16,454, making it one of the smallest capital cities in the world. Nuuk is the Kalaallisut word for “cape” and is full of experiences not found anywhere else in Greenland. Marvel at mummies in the Greenland National Museum, sample local craft beers at Greenland’s largest microbrewery and learn about urban arctic living and Greenlandic independence with a city and parliament tour. Cruise to Isortok and enter one of the fjords amongst walruses and seals with one of the largest population of Caribou along the shores. While at sea, it’s almost impossible not to see whales, including protected Humpbacks. This area also gives opportunities for ice diving, the best way to see the most beautiful wildlife in its natural habitat along manmade shipwrecks like Borgin, a wooden schooner that caught fire and went down in 1954 and a well-preserved Portuguese prison ship.”

North America

Explore Alaska 

“A seven-day journey through the Alaskan wilderness. Join the luxury yacht in Juneau after riding the tram up Mount Roberts for an eagle’s-eye view of the city or making the most of the long daylight hours with a scenic helicopter flight to the Mendenhall Glacier. Travel by the North and South Sawyer glaciers and onto Dawes Glacier to see huge pieces of ice falling into the fjord and seals sleeping on their ice beds. Listen out for the breath of humpback whales that come into the adjoining Holkham Bay. Kayak into the spray of a waterfall in Red Bluff Bay and get a close-up view of bears fishing for salmon in the summer months. This is also a great spot to catch fresh Dungeness crab and shrimp for the crew to prepare for dinner. In Baranof, relax in the warmth of nine hot springs with a glass of champagne in hand. Cruise north through the Chatham Strait, stopping at Tenakee Springs, famous for its bakery’s delicious cinnamon rolls, and home to galleries of local artists and breathtaking trails.”

TOP 10 LUXURY YACHT EXPERIENCES TO CHARTER IN SUMMER 2019

Ultimate paradise in the Caribbean 

“Lying just 50 miles off Florida’s coast, the 700 islands of the Bahamas stretch 600 miles towards the Caribbean.  The shallow waters are home to more than 30 diving destinations, shallow fishing waters, unspoiled reefs and fantastic beaches. This seven-day trip will explore the aptly named Paradise Islands. Dedicated to fun and relaxation, these islands offer a plethora of resorts and boutiques, and the largest casino in the Caribbean. Dive or snorkel through the underwater world of the 176-mile natural marine preserve, known as the Garden of Eden before moving on to Staniel Cay and taking the tender to the Thunderball Grotto – made famous by the Bond movie of the same name. Relax in Compass Cay’s huge natural Jacuzzi known as Rachel’s Bubble Bath while more adventurous travelers swim with nurse sharks around the island’s shallow waters.”

Asia & Oceania

TOP 10 LUXURY YACHT EXPERIENCES TO CHARTER IN SUMMER 2019

A diving cruise in Raja Ampat

“Raja Ampat means ‘Four Kings’. In an archipelago of over 1,500 small islands there are four main islands or ‘kings’– Waigeo, Salawati, Batanta, Misool. An 11-day excursion, which includes some of the most beautiful diving in the world. The first days are spent in Missol, exploring the reefs famous for the profusion of soft corals and sea fans, which are draped all over the reefs. The remaining days will be spent exploring the other main islands and several other diving areas in Raj Ampat.  Fish are plentiful on all dives and can be expected at sites with a great deal of healthy hard and soft coral. Wobbegong sharks can also be found at any of these dive sites, especially at Mioskon. Cape Kri holds the impressive record of 374 fish species identified during one 90-minute dive. At Otdima Reef, travelers might see the school of friendly sweetlips who group around one deep coral head; and at Blue Magic, a submerged seamount, there is a chance to encounter Giant manta rays.”

TOP 10 LUXURY YACHT EXPERIENCES TO CHARTER IN SUMMER 2019

Outback adventure in New Zealand

“New Zealand offers sporting and cultural attractions, a vast landscape of mountains, deep fjords, rainforests, glaciers and bubbling geothermal pools; the country has adventures for everyone. On this seven-day luxury experience, explore the Polynesian influence of Auckland and spectacular views over the city from the Sky Tower, before cruising through the Tamaki Strait to Wiheke Island to enjoy vineyards famous for Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Noir. Discover secluded beaches surrounded by native bush or visit the Whenuakura Wildlife Sanctuary, known as ‘Donut Island’ with a certified guide. Next, cruise to the Great Barrier Island in the Hauraki Gulf and kayak to Typhena to watch the friendly dolphins. Then visit Poor Knights Islands, with volcanic origins dating back 11 million years providing a myriad of spectacular drop offs, walls, caves, arches, tunnels and surrounded by a subtropical reef to explore. Bay of Islands is a nearby subtropical maritime park, dotted with 144 islands, it is also New Zealand’s yachting center, home of the NZ Millennium Cup Regatta and an idyllic spot for water sports and big game fishing.”

TOP 10 LUXURY YACHT EXPERIENCES TO CHARTER IN SUMMER 2019

Island paradise in Koh Samui

“A multi-island paradise awaits in Thailand. Secluded white-sand beaches, jungle-covered islands and ancient Thai traditions combine to offer a luxurious seven-day island escape that will indulge all the senses. Take two days to explore the Ang Thong National Park, which covers 42 islands. Over many centuries, the sea and weather have created peculiar-looking caves and cliffs names by locals for their distinguishing shapes, such as ‘Sleeping Cow,’ ‘Three Pillars,’ and ‘Chicken Island.’ This was also where part of the movie ‘The Beach’ was filmed. Dry evergreen forest covers the large islands of Koh Wua Talap, Ko Phaluai, and Ko Sam Sao and the Ang Thong Lady’s Slipper Orchid is an endemic species found only in this area. Next, travel to Koh See Koh Ha, meaning ‘Four Islands, Five Islands,’ where one island is hidden behind another. The islands are home to swifts, sought after for their nests, which are the main ingredient in birds’ nest soup. The birds and their nests are protected by Sea Gypsies, the only island inhabitants; their small wooden homes perch on rocky outcrops – much like nests themselves – and the gypsies are employed to guard the nests from poachers. Another stop on this experience is Koh Phangan, famous for its full moon parties at Haad Rin Beach, which feature electronic music and attract anywhere from 4,000 – 5,000 party-goers. On Koh Nang Yuan island, enjoy the newest attraction: inter-island ziplining. The last stop on the adventure is Koh Kong Nui for water sports, snorkeling and enjoying great Thai restaurants on Had Lad, Had Yao and Ao Chao Phao beaches.”

For more information please visit: CamperAndNicholsons.com

Images Courtesy of: Camper & Nicholsons

Chika Tillman: From Wall Street Banker to Pastry Chef

“I really loved the job as a banker, but the first thing I checked every morning in the newspaper is not the stock market section but the restaurant section,” said Chika Tillman, founder and head pastry chef of ChikaLicious Dessert Bar.

In the late 90s, when Tillman was working amid the hustle and bustle of Wall Street, in a suit and heels, she would attend the evening classes at French Culinary Institute after work. Having helped out in the kitchen at home at an age as early as six years old, Tillman has had a passion for European cuisine since she was a baby, regardless of the fact that she grew up in a traditional Japanese family in Tokyo.

Not long later, she started to set foot in the fine-dining industry in New York. From joining the Gramercy Tavern in 1994 to working at the Ritz Carlton, Tillman was finally living the life where she could talk about food as much as she wanted – the dream she kept holding onto when she quit her job as a banker.

From the fine-dining experience, not only did Tillman learn more about cooking with a professional team, but also, she noticed something else. “For most fine-dining places, you already spend $300 before the dessert course,” Tillman said. “So why not having a pizza or ramen and going to a different place for dessert?”

The prix fixe menu with wine pairing at ChikaLicious

In 2003, with a vision of providing a four-star yet affordable dessert experience, Tillman opened ChikaLicious Dessert Bar with her husband, Don Tillman, in East Village. With no waiters, this 20-seat eatery that is built around an open kitchen enables Tillman to work right in front of the guests and to serve them directly. Influenced by her fine-dining experience, Tillman created a 3-course prix fixe menu with wine pairing, which starts with a two-bite tiny tasting portion and onto a comfortable and nostalgic piece.

Blueberries on Genoise Cake surrounded by Frosted Pistachio with Blueberry Sorbet and Black Pepper Sorbet

“If I am making something that uses strawberries, I want people to think about a time when they had fresh strawberries,” Tillman said.

Finally, it ends with a more sugary piece to satisfy the brain.

Chef Chika presenting the most popular cheesecake

“Because I don’t put much sugar in the first two pieces, so I want people to have something sweeter in the end so that they have a feeling of ‘Oh, I ate the dessert,’” said Tillman as she presented the most popular “Fromage Blanc Island Cheesecake.”

Fromage Blanc Island Cheesecake

On top of a plate of ice, this white snowball is more like a milk pudding than a cake. Covered with fresh cream, it not only looks different from the traditional cheesecake, but also has a unique taste. As smooth as mousse, yet as rich as cheese, the cake will melt in your mouth after the first bite, but leaves a satisfying creamy consistency. The menu is changed every day by Tillman, with inspiration from food, color and picture, but “Fromage Blanc Island Cheesecake” is the only exception because of popular demand.

Chef Chika preparing the dessert

When asked what is the ideal job if she stops being a pastry chef, “A cashier at the liquor store!” Tillman said without hesitation. “So that I can get a discount for champagne! You know how much I love champagne,” Tillman said with excitement, just like a kid who finds her favorite toy, as she decorated a freshly-baked cake with blueberries.

Chef Samuel Clonts: a Modernized Kaiseki Dining Experience at Uchū

Having come to realize his love for food at a very young age, Chef Samuel Clonts started down his cooking career by helping his mom out with everyday dinner. With a huge passion for food and the process of making food, it did not take long for Clonts to begin cooking professionally by attending a culinary program at high school while at the same time working as a dishwasher. The 15-year-old Arizona boy never expected that in five years, he would be working at a Michelin star restaurant in New York.

At the age of 18, Clonts transferred from the Ritz Carlton in Arizona to one of their other locations in New York while furthering his studies at the Institute of Culinary Education. The young starter was eager to get real-world experience, especially in a city filled with a wide range of opportunities.

“When I ate at Chef’s Table at Brooklyn Fare, I knew this was the best,” Clonts said.

In due time, he got a job at this three-starred Michelin restaurant and started cooking Japanese-inspired cuisine. During his five years at Chef’s Table, Clonts found his true career passion – modernized Japanese cuisine.

“I really fell in love with their approach to cooking, the way they think about food and the way they handle it,” Clonts said after recalling his trip to Japan, where he tried the traditional Kaiseki.

Kaiseki is a multi-course Japanese dinner with a focus on seasonality and ornate tableware. It requires hours of meticulous preparation by the chef to provide an ultimate dining experience – a visually appealing meal with the taste buds dancing with delight.

By eating at different places and reading a variety of books, Clonts quickly learned the essence of Kaiseki. Since no one was manipulating it into a more western style in the city, Clonts decided to be the first to combine traditional Kaiseki with western elements, making it more approachable to New Yorkers. And it all started with Uchū.

Having opened in June of 2017 in Manhattan’s Lower East Side, Uchū, the 1-starred Michelin Japanese place is a tale of two counters, with chef Eiji Ichimura helming the 10-seat sushi counter and Clonts running the 8-seat Kaiseki counter. In contrast to a traditional Kaseki, Uchū’s tasting menu uses more high-end luxury ingredients, like caviar, truffle and wagyu that are not commonly seen in a traditional setting. Following the typical Kaiseki progression, the course starts with a light yet impressive dish to set the tone, followed by a dashi course, sashimi, grilled dish and finished with rice course. The menu changes every couple weeks, either because there is a new product or Clonts gets bored with a dish that has been there for too long. From white asparagus coming from France to caviar from Shanghai, Clonts looks for ingredients that are the best of the best.

Caviar Handroll

Among all the delicate dishes, the most popular one for customers is the caviar handroll, which includes caviar imported from the Kaluga farm in Shanghai. With a sheet of nori, a little sushi rice seasoned with black vinegar, some fresh wasabi and sumptuous caviar on top, the well-known handroll is ready to serve.

The Egg Dish with Jidori eggs and golden trout roe

Aside from the customers’ favorite, Clonts himself favors the egg dish. By using a famous Japanese breed, called Jidori eggs, and some golden trout roe, this simple-looking soft scrambled egg tastes as smooth as clouds.

“The natural fat from the yolk gives it a really nice texture. On top of it is usually some pickle that changes seasonally,” Clonts said.

Now 27 years old, Clonts is already a very successful chef in the competitive restaurant industry in New York. However, he is still not satisfied with his accomplishments.

“I think there’s room to grow and I would love to cook in front of people,” Clonts said. Without the limitations of space, Clonts would be able to prepare the food right in front of customers so that they could fully appreciate the beauty of Kaiseki. 

Images Courtesy of: Uchū

The Automotive World’s Most Extravagant Party

Once again one of the most highly anticipated parties of the year will return to Monterey California to kickoff famed Car Week.

Gordon McCall‘s Motorworks Revival’s 28th incarnation is set to provide Monterey Car Week pilgrims with an experience like no other. The party, which looks to be as if it was inspired by Scott Fitzgerald’s the Great Gatsby, is what has inspired countless Hangar Parties around the globe.

“Our 2019 event is set to be one of our most thrilling and glamourous yet,” said Gordon McCall, creator of the McCall’s Motorworks Revival. “The show has come to be known for its eclectic mix of aircraft, motorcycles and automobiles and a great way to kick off the Monterey Car Week. Our team is working hard to “Wow” our guests once again with a unique and exciting experience. This is our 28th year and we’re ready to fire it up!”

The August 14th event, which will take place across 4 acres of space at the Monterey Jet Center, will feature incredibly extravagant displays from sponsor partners that include Gulfstream, Chronoswiss A.G., Eberhard Co., McLaren, Pilatus, Reservoir Watch S.A., Textron, and WeatherTech, to name just a few. However, cars and planes will not be the only highlights: As epicurean delights will be served by celebrated chefs and bespoke cocktails will be created by the hands of talented mixologists.

This year’s event will also be raising vital funds for the California Highway Patrol 11-99 Foundation, which works to provide emergency assistance and scholarships to California Highway Patrol employees and their families.

The McCall’s Motorworks Revival is a truly cannot miss event, which enjoys a seat among the most exclusive and utterly enjoyable automotive events of the year. Red Carpet and VIP tickets are currently available for purchase to this automotive extravaganza on the McCall Events website.

Images courtesy of: McCall Events

The 17th Annual Celebration of The Quail, A Motorsports Gathering

A spectacular lineup of over 200 motorcars will permeate the vibrant and serene fairways of Quail Lodge & Golf Club during famed Monterey Car Week on Friday, August 16, 2019. An event that allows for motorsport enthusiasts to share their interests with like-minded individuals surrounded by a large array of the world’s rarest classic and superlative automobiles; that is exactly what The Quail, A Motorsports Gathering is all about. To create a haven for car collectors, enthusiasts and authorities alike to spend a single, glorious day reveling in a breathtaking setting accompanied by fine gourmet, fascinating people and, most importantly, some of the most exceptional automobiles within the automotive industry.

This year, three new classes, of which each commemorate automotive breakthroughs and anniversaries, will shine as the focal point of the event. The three classes are as follows: “100 Years of Bentley Motors,” “25th Anniversary of the McLaren F1,” and “A Tribute to the Electric Car Movement.” In addition to these outstanding displays, The Quail, A Motorsports Gathering will also be offering guest six international culinary pavilions as well as more vehicles hailing from some of the world’s most famous sport and racing brands.

The 17th Annual Celebration of The Quail, A Motorsports Gathering - McLaren F1 GTR
A McLaren F1 GTR

Celebrating an entire century of automotive history, the British marque will be launching “100 Years of Bentley Motors” with the presence of key examples, such as a 1926 Speed Six, 1929 Le Mans, a 1958 S1 Continental Coupe by Park Ward, and a 2018 Supersports. Not falling behind Bentley’s momentous 100th year anniversary, the “25th Anniversary of the McLaren F1” special class will be showcasing an impressive lineup of illustrious supercar models the like of which includes the renowned 1997 F1 GTR Longtail chassis number 27R, an example that is one of just ten GTR Longtails ever built as well as the first to champion over a race. With a focus on solely the historic and remarkable examples of electric automobiles, “A Tribute to the Electric Car Movement” will even feature a duo of experimental Volkswagens: an electric 1964 Microbus and the 1965 Volkswagen Beetle Zelectric Sedan.

The three special class displays is anticipated to be the perfect addition in conjunction with the theme of this year’s event. These special classes will play as the centerpiece together with an array of traditional classes like Pre-War Sports and Racing, Custom Coachwork, Supercars, and The Great Ferraris.

The 17th Annual "The Quail, A Motorsports Gathering" - 1966 Cheetah
The 1966 Cheetah owned by Mark Boen

A rare 1966 Cheetah owned by Mark Boen is one of the prominent vehicles to be announced for this year’s The Quail, A Motorsports Gathering. As one of just 12 original Cheetahs to have been produced, this Cheetah is recognized as the most original model in existence, which happens to also be the only example to possess a 1966 model designation. Having initially been constructed as a Chevrolet-powered opponent against the innovative Shelby Cobras in sports car competition, Chevrolet revoked their plans on the 100-car production run after only producing 12 of the model even though promises to deliver timely culmination were made.

“I’m thrilled to bring the 1966 Cheetah to the lawns of The Quail, A Motorsports Gathering,” said owner Mark Boen. “I’ve displayed cars at this event each year since its inception, and I couldn’t imagine a better place to display such a rare and striking piece of automotive history.”

The 17th Annual Celebration of The Quail, A Motorsports Gathering - 2018 Best of Show
The 2018 Best of Show

“Over its 17 years of celebrations, The Quail, A Motorsports Gathering has become one of the most prestigious automotive events in the world with a truly unique atmosphere,” said Gordon McCall, Director of Motorsports for The Peninsula Signature Events. “All three of our 2019 featured classes will complement this atmosphere perfectly, and we are confident they will help to make the 2019 roster one of our most impressive to date.” 

Like the years before, the event will continue their family and pet friendly environment offering. For those in attendance, the whole event is set up as an expansive lawn-party with six culinary pavilions, award-winning wine vendors, and a Fireside Chat Series. Furthermore, guests will be offered an invitation to the Bonhams Quail Lodge Auction that is going to occur jointly on the Quail Lodge Farm Field.

The 17th Annual Celebration of The Quail, A Motorsports Gathering
The 17th Annual Celebration of The Quail, A Motorsports Gathering

To learn about The Quail, A Motorsports Gathering please visit: SignatureEvents.Peninsula.com

Also check out The Quail’s Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.