It's The MOST...Time of the Year

It’s hard to escape holiday songs this time of year. While the holiday mood has not entirely jumped the shark around the SA-NY offices, we are the first to admit to feeling a bit scroogy after the 11th playing of “Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree.” In attempt to get ourselves in the mood, we conducted a recent survey of the SA-NY elves on our favorite holiday songs, and here’s what we found:

“All I Want For Christmas Is You”
“Do They Know It’s Christmas?”
“Where Are You, Christmas?”
“Jingle Bells”
Anything by Dolly Parton
“Seasons of Love” from Rent
“Baby, It’s Cold Outside”
“White Christmas”

Two Double O’ Seven

Amazingly enough, we did not make it onto Barbara Walter’s ’10 Most Fascinating People of 2006.” While we’re sure it’s simply a clerical oversight, it does force us take a step back and realize…that the year is almost over. Ummm…’k…I guess we were so focused on the inherent 2006-ness of today that we’ve almost missed the opportunity to really gear up for 2007. We realize that some of the other bastions of newsworthy-ness (NYTimes, Time Magazine, The Onion) may look back before they look forward, but we’re forging our own path here. So, here’s a sneak peak into some of the things that we’re looking forward to in 2007:

Mike Bloomberg for President – Ok, we actually don’t think this will happen in 2007, since there’s no election scheduled. But we’re kinda fans of Mike’s, and we dig that others are chatting it up about Hizzoner in a national context for 2008. A 2007 full of Mike buzzing is totally cool with us.

Let’s Go Higher – We totally heart the High Line. It’s is one of our favorite public/private sector projects and we simply cannot wait for the day when we stroll amongst the funky pathways being designed by Field Operations and Diller Scofidio + Renfro. The summer of 2007 will mark the end of the site preparation and mark on the next phase of the design implementation, bring us one step closer to stepping in style on the High Line.

Moving on Up– We’ve been into some of Broadways newest transitions from the great beyond of “Off-Broadway” (Grey Gardens, Spring Awakening, The Little Dog Laughed), so we can’t wait to see what the streets away from the Great White Way have to offer for 2007.

Our Impending Nuptials to Derek Jeter – Ummm…yeah…it could totally happen.

The Chase

This picture was taken 2 seconds before we started chasing the cup down the street, and took a chomp out of his head. Yup, that's what happens on the mean streets of New York.

Rock Center Rink...What Rink?

To be fair, Bryant Park has always had a special place in our hearts. From the summer movies to the drink-tastic outdoor terrace of Bryant Park Grill to the Glamazon sightings at Fashion Week, we heart Bryant Park. Well, step back! This year Fetes de Noel and ice skating on The Pond has helped us to fall a little deeper in love. This is the second year in a row Bryant Park has hosted the skating rink, and it is a great addition. A recent trip had us strapping on our blades, channeling our inner Sasha Cohen and working our magic on the ice. Ok, to be honest, it really had us tripping over ourselves and almost causing injury to others. But, we’re sure there was some magic in there somewhere. Either way, The Pond is our newest fave playground. Check it out.

Hark the Holiday Bells are Tolling

There are things in life we just don’t understand: Taylor Hicks fans; Why Naomi Campbell is not permanently locked away; Pro wrestling. But, one thing we do understand is why the masses flock to New York during the holidays. NYC is an amazing place to be when the décor gods sprinkle their magical touches throughout the city. The holiday window displays at all the department stores are just one great part of this. One of our personal favorites this year – Barney’s tribute to Andy Warhol. Because, as we’ve often said, nothing quite says happy holidays like multi-media pop art.

Molto, Molto, Molto

A recent excursion downtown to the restaurant Otto reminded us of why we love Mario Batali. Not only are we strong believers that redheads do it better, but add a bit of Italiano in there and we’re sold. Otto is absolutely one of our favorite places to have a sniff of vino rosso, a little nosh, and, of course, some absolutely-to-die-for olive oil gelato. The superlatives could rage out of control on this one, kiddos. Amongst our other fave Batali joints? Del Posto (bellisima), Italian Wine Merchants (drinktastic), and Babbo (how do you say fabu in Italian?)

Gobble, Gobble, Gobble

Ahhhhh...Thanksgiving. It's just such a great holiday. It's all about family, food and fun times. The team at Shackman Associates New York has plenty to be thankful for, and we hope that you, our lovely clients, colleagues and readers, do as well. May the spirit of the day remind you of all that you have to be thankful for. Happy Thanksgiving!

Winter Is Truly Coming

Woe is us...Shake Shack is shuttering up for the winter on December 1st. Only in New York could a "roadside" food stand exist in the middle of a urban park, and warrant hour long waits for burgers and fries. We're the first to admit that we're part of the Danny Meyer fan club, but Shake Shack takes our amour de gastronomie one step further by reminding us of the days when finding the perfect pair of sunglasses for the beach was our biggest mission. You can bet that we'll be there opening day in March, flip flops in tow.

Give Me Your Tired, Your Weary, Your Fabulous

If it were up to us, one of the Seven Wonders of the World would most definitely be Gino’s Pizzeria on the corner near the office. This may have something to do with the fact that we’re hungry, but it just proves that wonder can be a very subjective concept. One of our favorite dames of all time, The Statue of Liberty, is up for a spot of glory in the newest competition to name today’s wonders. Competing against 20 other spots, including the Taj Mahal, the Eiffel Tour and our favorite Peruvian outpost Machu Picchu, we think that Lady Liberty has a good chance and hope the voting public agrees. Unfortunately, we will be unavailable for comment when the wonders are announced on July 7th- we’ll be vacationing in the Hanging Gardens of Babylon.

Now That’s A Can-Do Attitude

Until November 22nd, New Yorkers will be able to see some of the most inventive design in the city at “Canstruction,” on display at the New York Design Center. Competing teams of engineers and architects have utilized canned goods to design sculptures ranging from a typewriter to a big apple to a sushi feast. (pictured)

With a mission to “construct a world without hunger,” these competitions are scattered through the U.S. and Canada. After the competition, all of the items utilized in the competition are donated to local food banks, shelters and pantries to feed those in need. Call us crazy, but we’ve never seen baked beans, spam and tuna look so appealing.

We're Ready For Our Close-up

EVERYONE knows that New York is the capital for celebrity sightings. We were reminded once again this weekend when we took our guests to Rockefeller Center, only to have them sit front row for a taping of a performance by Christina Aguilera. Yes, the former mousekeeter is just one of the many of the glitterati who consider New York home or spend a considerable amount of time here. So, today, kiddies, we’re going to turn on our star-dar with an interactive quiz on some of the SA-NY team’s favorite celeb sightings. The first reader to email us (dmc@shackmanassociates.com) with the correct answers to our name the star quiz will get a copy of “Scenes from the City,” the new book showing iconic NYC film moments. Good luck!

1) This domestic doyenne was sprung from jail and we recently caught her dining at Café Gray in the Time Warner Center.
2) This soon-to-be-bride was bidding on auction items for one her favorite charities, a long, long, long way from the creek!
3) As a tag-along to one of our Central Park tours, our guests interviewed this legendary journalist on her favorite flowers in the Conservatory Garden.
4) The talk turned to our favorite salads at an Upper West Side restaurant with this international rockstar and humanitarian.
5) “Interpreting” the conversation between this lovely leading lady and her co-star, fresh from filming at the UN, was our top priority one evening at a Meatpacking District restaurant.
6) We didn't need any "proof" when we saw the flowing blond locks of this actress, who splits her time between New York and London.
7) Standing next to him in the elevator, we couldn’t help but notice that this former mayor really does have a pearly, white smile.
8) With NY as her backdrop, this movie icon made us want to pull out a bowler hat, men’s tie and vest to stroll the Upper East Side with her.
9) With his Sundance-kissed locks and twinkling smile, this legend will always be one of our favorite actors, and his charitable contributions are just another reason to love him.
10) Looking up to this talk-show host was never a problem when we’ve seen him on the Upper West Side, as the funny man is quite tall!

A Central Park Moment

To Shop is Human, to Buy is Divine

Amongst New Yorker’s favorite past times, shopping ranks quite high…just ahead of brunching and judging others. One question we’re commonly asked is where is the best place to shop? Well, retail bliss can be found even in the farthest flung corners of NYC, so here a run down of some our favorite haunts:

Best Place to take Asian Inspiration to the Masses: Pearl River Market (Soho/Chinatown)

The Hippest Market in Town to buy Cupcakes, Cold-cuts and Cabernet: Chelsea Market (Chelsea)

If We Were Celebutants: Jeffrey New York (Meatpacking District)

Because Even Your Kid Needs to Be Hip in NYC: Peanutbutter & Jane (West Village)

Favorite H&M: Soho Store (but NEVER on the weekends)

If We Were Carrie Bradshaw: Christian Louboutin (Upper East Side)

Store with the Best Design and Retail Eye Candy: Prada (Soho)

Store We Wish Was Actually Our Closet: Barneys (Upper East Side)

Ode To Blue

New Yorkers came out to vote again this week and have confirmed that the Empire State is among the bluest of the blue states. Today’s blog is an ode to other blue stuff around these parts. That’s right - we’re theming it up, blue-style.

Blue Note Jazz Club – Big city Jazz lives in the West Village at Blue Note.

Central Park Reservoir – Named after a true blueblood, The Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir has it all on a good day - blue skies and blue water. A popular destination for the athletically-minded, the Reservoir is THE place to be in the park.

Blue Ribbon Bakery – This funky village bakery offers ultra-fresh baked goods, straight from the oven. For full-service dining, check out their cafe or the Brooklyn outpost.

New York Giants – Season to season, it’s an emotional rollercoaster watching the boys in blue battle it out. It’s early in the season, so we still have hope – go Giants!

Blue Smoke – We love BBQ thanks to this Gramercy smokehouse. Featuring down-home grub and top-notch service, Blue Smoke never fails to impress.

Tiffany – One of our favorite blue things comes from Tiffany. Actually, it’s not the little blue box, but what’s inside it that we love. Hint, Hint, Hint.

Speaking of Standing Ovations

It is hands-down our favorite New York City holiday. A crisp, beautiful Fall day. 37,000 runners. 5 boroughs. Over 2 million spectators, cheerleaders and fans on NYC streets. It is just a phenomenal experience to be in New York on Marathon Day, and today was no exception. We saw Lance Armstrong living strong. We saw displays of courageous determination. We saw bodies, but never spirits, breaking down. And, most proudly, we saw our own Director of Operations, Jeff Ward, complete his 5th NYC Marathon with a smile on his face. It’s just another reason to add to the list of why we’re his biggest fans. Congratulations Jeff, and to all of the athletes who participated in today's marathon.

We’ve been Mohonked

The Hudson River Valley is dreamy. That’s right, dreamy. Especially during late Fall when the colors are exploding, the wineries are booming and you can escape to the Mohonk Mountain House for your corporate retreat. Don’t get us wrong – NYC is the place to be – but if you’re looking for relaxation, recooperation and revitalization for your corporate team…not so much. So, head up the Hudson and check out Mohonk. A recent visit reminded us of why we love it. Still owned by the family that founded it in the 1870s, Mohonk offers state-of-the-art meeting space, historic reception space, engaging team-building activities and natural escapes at their finest. Want to go horseback riding? Check. Looking to build your team with a rock scramble? Check. Need to unwind with a full-day at the spa? Check. Want to host a private skating party in an outdoor pavilion? Check. Ready to book a meeting at Mohonk? Check, Check, Check!

Razzle Dazzle, Schmazzle Fazzle

So, we have the lucky fortune of going to the theatre fairly regularly. We love it. The lights, the acting, the music, the dancing…it’s all good. What we’ve found is not so good is the stuff that happens surrounding the show. It seems as though some theatre-goers haven’t quite gotten the memo on the etiquette necessary for a night on the Great White Way. While some may consider this a rant, we prefer to think of it as a gentle reminder.

Cell phones – This seems pretty basic and for the most part, people are quite forgiving of an occasional slip of the ring. However, if your phone rings during a theatre production, please be advised that anything short of a desperate scramble to locate and silence your phone will result in glaring looks from those around you.

Snoring – It’s happened to the best of us. The theatre you’re in is dark, it’s warm, the actors are doing their best northern English accent turning their words into a melodic lullaby, and you…just…close…your …eyes…for…a…moment. Yup, you’re out. No crime there. However, breaking out into full honking snore definitely pushes the boundaries of acceptability. Our suggestion? Always go to the theatre with someone who is not afraid to jab you in the ribs.

Wrappers – Do not crinkle wrappers in the theatre. Ever. Period. It’s annoying.

Inappropriate Clapping – Why should people clap at the theatre? Because they like what they see or like what they hear on stage. But, it seems like some people just clap to…clap. As though a Pavlovian response to the end of a scene. We think that you should follow the sage advice of one of our favorite songs - “If you’re happy and you know it, clap your hands.” Otherwise, keep it quiet.

Standing Ovations – This leads us into our biggest pet peeve - the standing ovation. We’d like to suggest that a standing ovation is not required every evening at the theatre. A radical thought, we realize, but a true one. We’re not saying they shouldn’t happen, because we have been known to jump to our feet to honor an amazing performance. But does it have to occur with every show, every night? We think not. Let’s reclaim the standing O, people. Restore it to its former glory. Save it for the nights when you are positive the show or the performer on stage is just inches from their Tony nomination.

‘Nuff said.

Prime Filet Ribeye T-Bone Flank Stuff

Now that we are coming down off of yesterday’s massive sugar high, we need a bit of sustenance. What better place to look than some of the city’s newest and most meaty-rific restaurants? We’ve already told you about Porter House NYC, but the newest movement in restaurants seems to be toward what Doctor Suess called “roast beast.” So, what’s out there? We’re tickled you asked:

STK – This appropriate addition to the Meatpacking District is right up our alley, with less “big macho steakhouse” vibe and more “you’re a glamazon in NYC.” Who knew that you could order steak in small, medium and large, just like clothing? Great lighting, good food, and an exclusive lounge scene downstairs, STK targets the femme fatale and metrosexual in us all.

Ted’s Montana Grill – Mr. CNN has come down from the mountains and delivered bison to Manhattan. Umm…did we need bison? Well, apparently we did. Besides being the catalyst for the chain of events that brought us Anderson Cooper (we heart you, Anderson), Ted Turner is the world’s largest bison farmer. His eco-friendly restaurant is now a fixture in Rock Center, bringing a new twist to the Media Alley on the Avenue of the Americas.

BLT Burger – We like to think that we’re best friends with Laurent Tourondel, for no reason other than the fact that we really like his restaurants. It’s fair to say LT wouldn’t count us amongst his nearest and dearest, but the much-buzzed about BLT Burger in the Village seems like a personalized attempt to get on our sweet side. We haven’t been there yet, but you can bet your bottom burger with blue cheese and red onion that we'll be there soon.

We Hate Daylight Savings Time

Ok, so we get an "extra" hour of sleep in the morning. But, really, should it be pitch-dark in the late afternoon? It just seems a little ridiculous. But, nobody asked our opinion, so we've attached one of our favorite pictures of a dusky and romantic New York for inspiration. Granted, the picture was taken at 3 pm, but we still find it inspiring.

New Yawk, New Yawk

Ok, we have to ‘fess up. We’re junkies for interesting factoids of any kind. It’s true. It also may be true that certain people refuse to play “Trivial Pursuit” with us because we’re so competitive. But, we’re not here to talk about rumors. We’re here to share some fun nuggets of trivia about New York. So, here goes:

Pearl Street was so named because of the volume of oyster shells found there, giving the area a “pearly sheen” in what was then the eastern shore of New Amsterdam. Makes sense and it's easier to say than "That Street that looks like it has a Pearly Sheen."

There are over 6,400 miles of roadway in New York City. Based on our experience driving in the city, at any given time, approximately 6,395 of them are ensnarled in gridlock.

L.I.C is home to Wonton Foods Fortune Cookie Factory, which produces over 4 million fortune cookies a day. Fortune of the Day: A wise client is a Shackman Associates client. Lucky Numbers: 7,16,23,56,97.

The Lights are bright on…Wiechquaekeck Trail. Yup, that was the original name of Broadway. Doesn’t quite have the same ring, does it?

Liberty Island, home to the Statue of Liberty, wasn’t officially known as Liberty Island until 1956. Previously, it was called Bedloe’s Island, named for former owner and Dutch merchant Isaack Bedloe from the 17th Century. With Lady Liberty weighing in at 450,000 pounds and over 101 feet tall, it makes sense that they just gave her the island.

Your Signature Please

So, yes, New York is the city that never sleeps, and the nightlife scene is all bling bling and ka-ching. Well, if bottle service and velvet ropes are not your idea of a supa-fun night, then how about a tour through some of the city’s best and most famous signature drinks? Any establishment worth its margarita salt has one, and here are a few of our favorites:

Ruby Foo’s – In our opinion, the thematic decor of the restaurant is really only there to set the stage for the main event - The Ruby Foo. With plum sake as the not-so-secret ingredient, we could drink these until the sun comes up in China.

Tribeca Grill – We’ve always been a fan of Robert DeNiro’s joint in Tribeca. It’s stylish without being stuffy, the menu is approachable and enjoyable, and the drinks…well, let’s just say that they get the job done. The Mixed Berry Mohito has become a recent passion. Taking the Mohito craze to a very berry place, this cocktail is worthy of a trip down to Tribeca.

The Rainbow Room – Sometimes it’s not about treading on new ground. It’s about finding a classic cocktail and just doing it well. Leave it to the gang at The Rainbow Room to take our love of all things champagne-esque to a new level with their classic Bellini. We don’t know what makes us feel on top of the world more – the drink or the views from the 65th Floor of Rock Center.

Bemelman’s Bar – It doesn’t get more classic New York City than the Bemelman’s Bar at The Carlyle Hotel. Featuring a menu of cocktails from another era, Bemelman’s Gin Gin Mule is not quite a Mohito, not quite a Mint Julep. It’s just a Gin Gin Mule and we can attest that it’s Quite Quite Good.

New York Sour – No, we’re not talking about how we felt on the subway this morning. We’re talking about the pretty and delish drinky-drink at Schiller’s Liquor Bar. The floating layer of red wine on top of this orange juice/whisky concoction is what really gets us. The way it just floats there…tempting us to stir the drink…it’s just…captivating.

Who is SA-NY?

Loyal readers…while we have had the pleasure of getting to know you a bit over the last few months of our blog, it occurs to us that you may not know who we are. Well, that ends today. Here’s a little snapshot of the team known as Shackman Associates New York…curtains please…


**The SA-NY offices are truly a mixed bag of backgrounds and cultures. While all of us consider ourselves New Yorkers, we hail from: Johannesburg, South Africa; The Bronx; Barcelona, Spain; Port chester, New York; Paris, France; Mount Kisco, New York; Fond du Lac, Wisconsin; Nazareth, Pennsylvania; and Cape May, New Jersey.

**25% of the SA-NY staff considers Mint Chocolate Chip ice cream their favorite. 100% of the staff will eat whatever ice cream is brought to the office, regardless of flavor.

**Some of our favorite New York City locales include: Grand Central Station, The Museum of the City of New York, The Great Lawn of Central Park, The Statue of Liberty, Rock Center Ice Rink, the park at Gracie Mansion, The Frick, Ellis Island, and the Queens Museum.

**The SA-NY team has several mascots, who provide critical “background support” to the team, including: 3 dogs, 4 cats, and 1 extremely supportive houseplant, who hangs on our every word.

**Our heroes include: Our moms and dads, Mayor Bloomberg, the NYPD, the ASPCA and the FDNY. None of them wear capes, but we think that they are super anyway.

**In true New York fashion, 22% of us think that any shade of black will do for any occasion. Other favorite colors? Red (33%), blue (33%), and orange (12%).

**Our favorite blog is…seriously? Do you even need to ask?

Not Today, Geraldine…

It was not too long ago that we were young (ah hem…) patrons of the arts, and had the pleasure of seeing Christine Ebersole command her Tony-Award winning performance in 42nd Street. Well, we knew that she could do “damaged.” We knew that she could do “poignant.” We didn’t know that she could do “wacky recluse.” Last night, we had the pleasure of seeing it first-hand in the new-to-Broadway production of Grey Gardens. Inspired by the cult documentary of the same name, the show is a delicious tale of the famously fallen relatives of Jackie O. and their 52 cats. Grey Gardens is captivating and Ms. Ebersole is fascinating to watch in her turn as both Edith Bouvier Beale and her daughter Little Edie. Still in previews, the entire show isn’t quite there yet, but there’s hope on the horizon. Which is more than one could say for the Beales.

Gramercy Park Hotel

Never have the colors rose, jade and pale blue been so well served by interior design as they have been at Ian Shrager’s new luxe oasis – the Gramercy Park Hotel. To be honest, our first thought was that this was exactly the type of hotel to have a torrid love affair at. Everything about the hotel screams creative sensuousness, from the plush furnishings and fixtures to the bold and rich original art work throughout the hotel.

Utilizing a “haute bohemian” design concept, the hotel brings together modern design sensibility and artistry with a lush color palette, and vividly creative object d’art from artists such as Twombly, Basquiat, Warhol and Schnabel. The most highly-anticipated addition to the hotel - Park Chinois - a fine dining Chinese restaurant from London-based, Michelin-starred restauranteur Alan Yau, is opening soon. In the mean time – you must check out the bar offerings at GPH. The Rose Bar and The Jade Bar are so far beyond the current modern (cold) décor that you find at most of New York’s trendiest hotels, and practically BEG you to stay for another martini. Featuring a menu highlighting “best of” choices from some of the city’s top chefs, both are absolutely worthy of a stop for a cocktail or a nibble.

Go Mets

Go Mets! Go Mets! Go Mets!
Go Mets! Go Mets! Go Mets!
Go Mets! Go Mets! Go Mets!
Go Mets! Go Mets! Go Mets!
Go Mets! Go Mets! Go Mets!
Go Mets! Go Mets! Go Mets!
Go Mets! Go Mets! Go Mets!
Go Mets! Go Mets! Go Mets!

Imagine That

With all these people in the news everyday, do you ever just wonder what their lives are really like? Well, what if you could become another person for one day just to find out? Crazy thought, huh? Well, a recent poll of the lovely Shackmanites, hard at work, revealed some very interesting answers to the question of who they would swap skin with:

Mayor Mike Bloomberg – He’s the big kahuna around these parts, and it would be amazing to be “in-the-know” like Mike, just to see what makes NYC tick. But, let’s be honest, with a city like New York, we might only be able to handle 12 hours, max.

Derek Jeter – Ok, we don’t want to be him. We want to date him. We all want to date him. But, we’re clearly in our right mind because so does everyone else. We love Derek Jeter. We just want Derek to love us back.

Martha Stewart – Who wouldn’t want access to her life? Her collection of whisks and cutlery alone is enough to drive us to total kitchenware envy. Throw in access to the farm in Connecticut, with the horses and the barn, and we just want to be Martha…now that she’s no longer on lock–down.

The City Parks Commissioner – We have to admit that we only just found out that the Parks Commissioner is Adrian Benepe. (Thank you Google.) Who knew? What we do know is that this is the guy who is on a mission to keep NYC green and alive, and we want to get in on that action.

Donald Trump – If only so we could encourage a hairstyle change…not that we’re judging.

Marian Seldes – a five-time Tony Award Nominee, Ms. Seldes personifies what we love about the theatre. Whether she’s passionate, detached, revealing or concealing, she is a delight to watch on the stage, and it would be amazing to experience being her in the glow of the footlights.

Vanessa Manillo – Because she’s dating Nick Lachey. 'Nuff said.

Reminders

There are times that we are reminded that this big city of ours is just like a small town. From the attacks on the World Trade Center to the Blackout of 2003 to last year’s MTA transit strike, in times both good and bad, New Yorkers pull together. Yesterday was another such day. A small plane, piloted by Yankee Cory Lidle, crashed into a building on the Upper East Side of New York, and it reminded some of us of the September 11th attacks and the sadness, worry and heroism that came out of that day. Our thoughts are with Cory Lidle’s family and those families affected by the accident.

Mac Attack

Gentle readers…it has been pointed out by certain members of the viewing audience that our postings, which are chocked full of useful information and pizzazz, focus quite a bit on food. Well, it’s true. We like food. Food likes us. The story of New York is one that involves quite a few chapters on food. So, let’s not be so general about it. Today, we’re going to launch the first in a series of postings where we uncover the nuances behind our favorite dishes at different restaurants, and tell you all about them. Whether it’s a creamy cheese cake, the ultimate burger or…macaroni and cheese. That’s right, our first dish is that cheesy, carb-o-rific throwback to grade school – mac and cheese:

The Hudson Cafeteria – This has always been one of our favorite haunts to have dinner. The large communal tables, the massively tall ceilings, and the great soundtrack, for every meal make The Hudson Cafeteria a must visit. Another reason – some great mac. While there is a decided division in tastes when it comes to a top crust (cheesy? breadcrumbs? no crust?), The Cafeteria hits the right notes with their seasoned breadcrumb topping. Also, if you’re up for some adventure, add a little pancetta and watch your blood pressure soar!

Tenement – Take a stroll to the lower east side to try the mac and cheese at this hipster hangout, which serves an inviting menu of comfort creations. A recent excursion had us noshing on the delish mac, while sipping a cold brew on a very classic New York City-style patio (yes, we could see into other people’s apartments.)

Michael Jordan’s Steakhouse – Located in the northwest balcony of Grand Central, this famed baller’s steak house serves up the good stuff. The mac at MJ’s joint is practically perfect in every way. Combining multiple cheeses with al dente pasta and baked with a bubbling cheesy crust, it doesn’t get much better than this. (pssst…We’re not naming names, but we know people who pick the crust off the dish for the ultimate cheesy nibble…you know who you are.)

Fall into Museums

Ok, we don’t know why we’re surprised. It happens every year. Summer leaves New York and heads down to the southern hemisphere and Lady Fall shows up bringing with her lovely foliage, the chance to wear fun scarves and hats, and lots more reasons to love New York. What reasons? Well, we’re glad you asked. Here’s a big one: Museums, Museums, Museums! Who wants to waste a beautiful summer day inside? Not us, so we save our museum trolling for the cooler months. Right now the Museum of the City of New York has a great exhibit on Dorothy Draper, interior designer and stylist bellisima. The Museum of Sex (yes, there's truly a museum for everything) is currently showing an exhibit called “Peeping, Probing and Porn: Four Centuries of Graphic Sex in Japan.” If that’s a bit more than you need to know about the Japanese (or anyone), head over to the newly redesigned MoMA. Still buzzing since its re-opening last year and packing in the crowds, MoMA is showing an exhibit featuring new photography, as well contemporary exhibit on expressions of time. We’re not exactly sure how one expresses time, but we’re gonna find out.

Ninja

We like a theme restaurant as much as the next kid on the block. Renaissance fair, pro wrestling, Broadway musical…New Yorkers have seen ‘em all. (Let’s not forget about that restaurant themed after a restaurant from a Tom Hanks movie…you know the one…no, we’re not gonna say it.) Anyway, we have discovered our latest theme obsession. NINJAS! Those stealthy masters of the sword arts, chic-er than chic in all black, have invaded the NYC downtown dining scene and are serving some tres interesting meals. Housed in a “Ninja’s Castle,” this place has been known to be a bit eerie, but packs a whallop on the taste buds. A personal favorite? The meteorite pot (pictured). Yes, that’s a sword. Not pictured –the fact that the rock is 800 degrees. So, how do you say “hot stuff” in Japanese?

Go Ahead…Let the Rhythm Get You

We don’t know if it’s just us, but it seems like entertainment options at events have gotten a little…tired. We don’t mean to judge, but we’re going to. It seems like parties want the entertainment to be fun-ish...fun lite…nutra-fun…not the real deal. Well, here are some ideas to pep things up at your next event:

Esoteric Human Statues – Is it art? Is it entertainment? Who’s to say? But, these human statues make quite an impression at events and their graceful movements and faceless motion are captivating to watch. We’re still not quite sure what we saw, but we liked it.

Steel Drums – You just have not lived until you’ve heard New York, New York on the steel drum. Ok, we’re exaggerating, but there’s no reason why this amazing island-style music can’t bring some energy to your next event.

DJ Chef – Is he feeding you or entertaining you? Well, DJ mix it up one time, cuz this chef is ready to spin. Bringing together his twin passions, the DJ Chef will raise the roof and feed your stomach with his stunning culinary creations. Pump it up, pump it up!

New York Zen

Alright, we get it: You’re on an incentive, you want to see everything there is to see in New York, and there’s only so much time in the day. So, you rush, rush, rush your way through the city, and your 5 day trip is a blur of sights and sounds. Looking for a way to enjoy New York and take a step back? How about a personalized Tai Chi class in Central Park? Utilizing a pattern of relaxed body positions, our Tai Chi Master will lead the group in this stress-reducing exercise class. Finish the morning with a relaxing tea ceremony, and you will be ready to tackle the Urban Jungle once again. Can you say “Ommmmmmmmm?”

Taking One with the Team

We’re always looking for new and interesting ways to bond teams together…mostly because that’s what we’re paid to do. So, the mission at hand - what’s new and different in the world of team building? How can you energize your team? Well, here are some ideas:

Drum Café – Delivering an unforgettable interactive experience, the Drum Café requires no words. Just the space for your guests to bang it out, and fall into perfect harmonious rhythm.

Medical Relief Teambuilding – by partnering with a medical relief agency, this activity has guests putting together useful materials discarded by US healthcare providers to redistribute to medical volunteers around the world in places of need. Without getting all “We Are the World” on you, we think it’s a great thing - inspiring your guests to promote sustainable healthcare while building cohesion. Ok…”We are the world…We are the Children”…sorry, we just couldn’t resist.

Bartending Competition – on a slightly less altruistic note, what about building your team by building the perfect cocktail? Your team of amateur mixologists must concoct a signature drink that symbolizes one of their team’s goals. Perhaps it’s the Perfect Pitch-alada or a More Marketshare Mohito. Whatever the case, we’re still reeling from the effects of the Shackman “Shaken, Not Stirred” NY Martini, and can strongly endorse this activity. We’ll be at the bar.

One Singular Sensation

It can’t just be that we think our true calling is the Broadway stage, and we think that we would look absolutely STUNNING in a gold lamé top hat. No...there’s just something about “A Chorus Line.” The way it captures the spirit of Broadway and the spirit of New York. You know what we mean – small town girl makes good on a dream, the idea that anyone can reinvent themselves in Gotham, and the idea that talent and passion have no limits if one is just given another chance to dance. Yup, “A Chorus Line” has it all. The show about the casting of a show was considered a bit revolutionary when it debuted on Broadway in 1975, and is poised to make a comeback when it opens on October 5th at the Schoenfeld Theatre. So, will the revival mark another 15-year run on Broadway? Who’s to say? But we’ve already got our tickets.

Taxi Buzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz

Let’s just be honest…New York is not a “Green” city. We wish it was, and it’s better than it used to be, but it’s just not. Well, step back people, because our little yellow taxis are going green. The NYC Taxi and Limousine Commission have announced that a handful of electric taxis will be on NYC streets in the upcoming months. The downside? They will be PT Cruisers. Not that we’re judging.

Food Buzz

Sizzle, Sizzle - Don’t get us wrong – we thought the V Steakhouse was a lovely restaurant and we were sad to see Jean-Georges Vongerichten retreat from the restaurant collection at the Time Warner Center. But, we are giddy with anticipation for Michael Lomonaco's newest venture, Porter House, which takes over the space and brings a decidedly open feeling to the collection on Columbus Circle. Not that we don’t love waiting 6 months for a dinner reservation (ahem…)

Happy Birthday – The Union Square Greenmarket just turned 30 and they are still spicing up the ‘hood with chilis, fresh greens and heirloom tomatoes galore. Cheers to you, USG!

Pinkberry, Shminkberry – Ok, we’re skeptical. We LOVE Tasti D-Lite. And it’s not just because it’s located approximately 3 minutes from our front door. However, we may drag our sweet tooth down to the Flat Iron district for some Pinkberry, which has just opened on 32nd Street. Busting out of its West Hollywood roots, Pinkberry is coming to the Big Apple with its yogurty tang and slick décor. Like we said, we’re skeptical.

Country – A recent excursion brought us to the front door of Country restaurant, located in the Carlton Hotel. We forgot how lovely Geoffrey Zakarian’s ode to comfort and grace truly is, and how wonderfully the restaurant captures the vibe of a classic New York. We also forgot how fantastic the menu is, with a multi-course pre-fixe showcasing classic preparations of seasonal ingredients. We did not, however, forget how much we really enjoy when someone else picks up the check.

Art Scene to be Seen

Street Art and Sky Art: In Rockefeller Center, Anish Kapoor’s “Sky Mirror” sculpture is reflecting New York above and below. Truthfully, we don’t quite get it. But, like “The Gates” before it, sometimes it’s not about the work, but about the conversation it strikes up among everyday people on the street. We’re all about that.

Picasso in America: Some of New York’s best museums are Pablo crazy! The Whitney is kicking off a show this week celebrating Picasso’s influence on American artists, pairing up original Picassos with the work they influenced. From Willem de Kooning to Jasper Johns over 150 American works will be showcased alongside 40 Picassos. If you are a fan of Senor Picasso, you can also check out MoMA’s amazing collection, which spans the entirety of Picasso’s career and includes some of his most interesting early work.

It’s a spoon – but is it art? The Cooper Hewitt’s exhibit “Feeding Desire: Design and the Tools of the Table” remains on exhibit through the end of October. Showcasing the design of the everyday utensils of dining, this exhibit only reinforces our notion that we are true artists when we are setting a dinner table.

Have Some Sugar, Sugar

Maybe it's because we have a sweet tooth. Maybe it's because we like the idea of pink frothy goodness, atop our own personal cake, sprinkled with pastel sugary treats. Or maybe just because we like the idea that a war can be fought over...cupcakes. That's right - those little petite gateaux have moved in, captured the stomachs of even the most jaded New Yorkers, and spawned a battle for the title "Supremo Cupcake," with no clear victor in sight. Whether it's Buttercup, Magnolia, Billy's or The Cupcake Cafe, the battle rages through the streets of New York. We've learned not to ask too many NY'ers which is their favorite - just like pizza, bagels, coffee and low-rise vs. skinny leg jeans - taste is truly in the tastebud of the beholder. We have our personal favorite, but our lips are sealed...with frosting.

Name the NYC Celebrity

Alrighty - here's a little Hump Day quiz for you. Which celebrity is pictured in the NYC photo below? The first correct answer emailed to dmc@shackmanassociates.com will receive a copy of his new cd! (hint, hint) Let the guessing begin!

In Memory

Yesterday, New Yorkers, along with the rest of the world, honored the memory of those individuals who lost their lives on September 11, 2001. Shackman Associates New York pays tribute to the enduring spirit of their memory, and the families who lost their loved ones. September 11th is a part of the continuing story of New York, and one that will be memorialized in "Reflecting Absence," currently being constructed at Ground Zero in lower Manhattan.

The jury statement from the memorial competition calls the memorial a "powerful, yet simple articulation of the footprints of the Twin Towers...It is a memorial that expresses both the incalculable loss of life and its consoling renewal, a place where all of us come together to remember from generation to generation."

'Nuff said.

NYC Anniversaries

New Yorkers love nothing more than celebrating, and what better reason to celebrate than an anniversary. Here are a couple of important milestones to note in 2006:

The Empire State Building's 75th Anniversary: At over 1,200 feet tall and completed in only 2 years, the Empire State Building remains an icon of New York and one of the best ways to see the city. With new and improved waiting space, and a re-opened observation deck on the 102nd floor, the Empire State Building continues to shine in the heart of midtown.

The Tony Awards' 60th Anniversary: The Antoinette Perry Awards, or the Tony's as they are more commonly called, have proven again and again that the lights are never dim on Broadway. The 2006 Awards toasted new crowd-pleasing shoes such as Jersey Boys, The Drowsy Chaperone and The History Boys. Now that's the way to razzle dazzle!

Chez Josephine's 20th Annivesary: We don't know what we love more - that there is a restaurant dedicated to entertainer Josephine Baker, or the amazing cuisine at this theatre-district gem. Throw in ultra-fabulous host, Jean-Claude Baker (Josephine's adopted son) and any night that starts or ends at Chez Josephine is a celebration!

Take Me Out to the Ballgame

The "Bronx Bombers" broke ground yesterday on the new Yankee stadium in New York. The 51,000-seat stadium will be ready for the boys in pinstripes' 2009 season opener. As part of a larger South Bronx redevelopment plan, the new stadium will feature an exterior facade replicating the original Yankee Stadium, renovated in 1976, a retractable roof, and many of the newer hospitality and sports-related amenities found at ballparks around the country. So, line up the peanuts, cracker-jacks, beer and sushi for a rousing night with the Yankees in 2009! Or, even better, come to New York and check out the current Yankees' stadium while you can!

Touch the Sky

It is truly a right of passage in New York – searching for the best rooftop bar/lounge/restaurant. These penultimate dwellings inspire even the steamiest New Yorkers to give up access to air conditioning to breathe fresh air with a view. So, what gives? Why the fuss? Perhaps it’s a throwback to the Art Deco New York where 50 stories was a skyscraper. Or maybe it’s the perfect escape from the teeny-tiny dwellings we New Yorker’s call home. Whatever the cause, there is new buzz in the search with a great 5th Avenue penthouse and terrace.

As both a private event space and a night on the town, this midtown gem features unparalleled 360 degree views, a chic vibe and great drinks and nibbles. Perfect for a private function, you can indulge in an Arabian Nights fantasy with billowing white tents and low-slung seating. Or take advantage of the mirrored walls and resurrect classic Studio 54 with a view!In New York, it's all about the tops, so why not start your party with the best of the top!

Shackman Events Summer Clambake

Bringing the beach to Broadway, Shackman Events recently hosted an NYC cruise and beach-themed lobster and clambake for over 200 guests. The group started the night by setting sail on a cocktail cruise. Greeted by the summery sounds of a gentleman band, the staff handed out logo’d beach apparel, including sunglasses, sun visors and beach toys, and cool “Captain’s Choice” cocktails. Arriving at a private dock, the melodic sounds of steel drums helped to guide guests to an exclusive BBQ and clambake at a private venue. Featuring balconies with grills galore, the room was resplendent in white billowing sails, colored beach balls and even putting greens! The wait staff wore their “clamdiggers” and sun visors, and a lifeguard kept an eye on the fun from his life guard perch. Guests danced the night away as the band struck up summertime classics. No need for sunscreen, but plenty of fun, at this summery bash!

Why We Blog

Shackman Associates New York is launching a blog. So, here it is – our blog. TA DA. (insert trumpet blare, jazz hands and streamers).

It will be filled with bits and pieces about events, about the incentive/travel/events industry, about us, and about New York. We’ll keep our rants to a minimum (unless they are about a must-see space or one of our BRILLIANT ideas), and the praise we lavish will absolutely be well earned.

So, why do we blog? Because we love New York, and we love what we do, and we think you should hear about it.

‘nuff said.