Japanese Grandmother’s Inspiration

Japanese Grandmother’s Inspiration

By Claudie Benjamin People rave about the rice balls at Shinbashi 72.  The excellence in preparation of the rice – a foundation of Japanese cuisine doesn’t happen by chance.  “My Dad, Takeshi Katayama takes care of the rice starting at 8:30am every morning,”...
Henna Designs: Some Subtle, Others Flamboyant

Henna Designs: Some Subtle, Others Flamboyant

By Claudie Benjamin A dragon, peacock or band of intricate lace drawn on your hands, arms, small of your back, base of your collarbone.  What’s your pleasure?  Shaira Halani who goes by Saira professionally, has been working as a henna artist and specialist in...
Alterations with Finesse and Heart

Alterations with Finesse and Heart

By Claudie Benjamin   There are many folk and fairy tales where the magic lies in transforming simple threads into garments of gold and silver.  Luxury tailoring is the hallmark of Alteration Specialists, a business created in 2014 by two brothers who saw a...
“Shady Cash”

“Shady Cash”

New York Post Journalist Jennifer Gould digs into the $127 million financing connections of 50 West 66th Street and another midtown development in her article “How Shady Kazakh Cash is Building NYC’s Poshest Pads” and even throws at bit of shade at...
Gorgeous Hats & Fine Friendships

Gorgeous Hats & Fine Friendships

By Claudie Benjamin Les beaux chapeaux, les bandeaux en soie, chapéus de feltro, British royal-style fascinators, chapel caps and mantillas — every culture has its hats and head ornaments.  Some are particularly special.  At Jeannie’s Dream, at 60 West...
Focus on Prayer

Focus on Prayer

By Claudie Benjamin Interested in learning something about the practice of Islam on the Upper West Side?  Curiosity is the key. The Islamic Cultural Center of New York is open to everyone. Three worshipers, among them two of the building’s caretakers and a yellow cab...
Community Service Since 1894

Community Service Since 1894

By Claudie Benjamin The National Council of Jewish Women New York (NCJW NY) was founded in 1894.  In the mid-1970s, the organization moved to what is now known as “Council House” at 241 West 72nd Street. A main activity at the building today is Council Lifetime...
Let's Keep in Touch!

Let's Keep in Touch!

Want the latest news?
Care to share about something in the neighborhood?
Be the first to hear about upcoming events?

Join the LW! email list!

You're Subscribed!