Events

By Ksenia Starchevskaya for Livable Lovable Life

Is There Life After Labor Day?

So the summer is officially over and outdoor parties are about to end their existence, bars to stop serving mojitos, people to stop wearing white and you see less and less sense in leaving your warm and cozy coach. “Summer time and the life is easy” is not true anymore.  Fall in New York is taking over, which means you better get ready for the capricious winter in the city.  The best weapon against the post summer depression is a hobby. A hobby that will carry you away to the land of good times. Where is it? Your childhood of course! It is time to make Happy Hours truly happy without significant damage for your wallet and liver. Hurry up, most of the classes start in mid-September.

1. LEARN BALLET FROM THE VERY, VERY BEGINNING

Even if you were very traumatized by your expulsion from a ballet school (because of your weight, knees, toes, etc), it is time to revenge blindfolded teachers. Remember how pretty you looked wearing that pink tutu and white tights? You will probably need them in a bigger size now but surley it will still look great on you.  Here are the places where you can turn to a graceful, lean swan even if you are nothing more than a hen yet.

• http://www.peridance.com/
• http://www.broadwaydancecenter.com/
• http://www.alvinailey.org/aileyextension/dance-fitness-classes-adults

2. MAKE A CLAY POT AND GIVE TO YOUR MOM FOR THANKSGIVING

Your mom will be thrilled! Everything that is made by the hands of her beloved baby is a treasure. But deviate from moms. Pot modeling is one of the most sensual and at the same time relaxing hobbies (after exotic dances of course) that you can dig in. Close your eyes and imagine dipping your fingers into wet clay… imagine? So you got the idea. Seriously speaking, clay is a powerful medium to help people convey and work through many issues such as anger, grief and loss, fear, guilt and blocked speaking. It has the capacity to quickly absorb and express what we are feeling, especially when we are not clear of our thoughts and we feel stuck or unable to work through our problems.

• http://mudsweat-tears.com/
• http://www.edalliance.org/index.php?submenu=ArtSchool&src=gendocs&ref=ArtSchool&category=Programs
• http://thirdavenueclay.com/index.htm  (Brooklyn)
• http://www.chelseaceramic.com/

3. STOP SMOKING, BITTING NAILS, CRACKLING FINGERS-START KNITTING

Knitting is a great hobby for those who want to get rid bad habits. It’s already known and accepted within the medical profession that occupied people feel less pain and depression, so that’s a good start. It keeps your hands busy when you are in front of TV or even talking to your friend on the phone. Knitting will help you finally stop torturing your poor fingers or nails (the common way to express anxieties). Should I mention that you will forever stop buying holidays gifts for your friends and family?

• http://www.purlsoho.com/purl
• http://www.lionbrandyarnstudio.com/
• http://lacasitayarnshop.com/ (Brooklyn)
• http://www.knittycity.com/blog/home
• http://gottaknit.net/
  

4. CREATE BEAUTY – LEARN HOW TO EMBROIDER

An embroidered picture is a great way to make your friends say WOW and feel very special about yourself. Roses, birds, horses, boyfriends even the logo of your company can make people (including your boss) look at you as at a gifted artist. It is almost a beauty therapy to embroider meticulous colorful details of a broad picture. You unwillingly forget about all your worries trying to get a flower pestle right or a greek profile of your sweet heart.

• http://www.cityquilter.com/
• http://www.sewfastseweasy.com/
• http://www.makeworkshop.com/content/classes/classes_embroidery.htm

5.  IT IS ABOUT TIME TO STOP AVOIDING KARAOKE BARS

This is my fall resolution and a life long dream. I am officially done envying people who can sing and fearing setting my foot into a karaoke bar. Singing is not just a great way to socialize but it is a good way to get yourself free from the burden of every day life.

When a person sings, he or she tends to be in a more relaxed state of mind. Thus, the breathing brought about by singing can calm you down and helps to get rid of the daily stress.

• http://www.continuusvoice.com/index.html
• http://www.newyorkvocalcoaching.com/
• http://vocalworkoutsingingschool.com/
• http://www.bodysinging.com/

Here are some more great ideas for individuals who like to stand out and need an original and even extravagant hobby.

BUTCHER CLASSES

http://www.thebrooklynkitchen.com/web-store/index.php?c=1

LEARN CALLIGRAPHY

http://cooperunion.augusoft.net/index.cfm?fuseaction=1010#

LEARN TO GLASSBLOW

http://www.urbanglass.org/?q=StudentRegistration

LEARN TO BE A SOMMELIER

http://www.nycwineclass.com/wine_classes.php

LEARN TO HOW TO BE A DRAG QUEEN (MEN ONLY)

http://www.missvera.com/index.html

…and even more ideas how to keep yourself busy in a rainy September day:

Flower-Arranging Classes

http://www.flowerschoolny.com/

Etsy Labs’ Monday Craft Night (crafts varies weekly)

http://www.yelp.com/biz/etsy-labs-brooklyn

Comic Writing Classes

http://moccany.org/education.html

New York School of Burlesque

http://www.schoolofburlesque.com/

Aerial Classes

http://classes.theskybox.org/

Welding Classes

http://www.3rdward.com/3rdwardclasses/night-welding-intro-to-the-metal-shop.html

Aikido Classes

http://bondstreet.org/

Private Cooking Classes

http://www.peteseats.com/

I LOVE NEW YORK!

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I LOVE NY- ILN

Stuck in the city for the whole summer? Great! New York can introduce you to a lot of amazing activities.  It is about time to find a hobby that can help you survive through the winter. New York is the best place to be in the summer. The city will help you escape from work or even your going out routine or just meet your inner child. Here are some ideas how to make your lazy coworkers jealous of your fun pastime.

1. Photography Workshop: NYC by New York City Photo Safari

Grab your camera and immortalize fascinating New York street scenes and its inner beauty. Professional photographers lead all photo safaris and their workshops cover all tastes and preferences. Here are just some of them:

Central Park, NYC After Dark, Madison Square Park, The Urban Jungle (Highline Elevated Park), Still Life Photography, Mommy/Daddy and me (parent and child learn photography together), Candid Kids (parents learn how to photograph babies and toddlers), People on Location.

http://newyorkcityphotosafari.com/photosafari.html

2. Summer Yoga Series

It is hard to drag yourself to the gym or yoga studio on a hot summer day, an outdoor yoga series can be a perfect solution. Meeting weekly, these series are the way to find serenity in the center of the chaotic city and can be done right before or after work.

-Battery Park City (Rockefeller Park), on the lawn, between Chambers Street and Warren Street) every Wed 9:45am – 10:45am

-Center Park, Turtle Pond near Belvedere Castle, every Mon and Wed 6:45-7:45
http://www.openairyoganyc.com/locations.php

- Central Park, Sheeps Meadow – Enter near 67th St. & Central Park West, Vinyasa Flow Yoga class, every Sat 11:30am-12:45pm
http://yogaclub.us/

-Union Square, the South Plaza, every Th 7am-8am
http://www.unionsquarenyc.org/park/seasonal/291

-Bryant Park Tai Chi, Fountain Terrace, every T and Th 7:30am-8:30am

-Bryant Park Yoga, Upper Terrace, every T 10am-11am and Th 6pm-7pm (Loan)
http://www.bryantpark.org/plan-your-visit/calendar.html?evt=1939_13

-Park 10th Ave between 14th and 15th Street, see schedule online
http://nyc.laughinglotus.com/events.html

3. Dancing in the streets

Dance your stress away, get in shape and get some real New York experience dancing in its streets, don’t be scared to grab a stranger and whirl with him or her and who knows, if they don’t escape, maybe it is fate.

-¡Arriba! Music and Dance on the High Line, every Th at 7pm, On the High Line under The Standard
http://www.thehighline.org/events/all/2011/8/every-thursday-%C2%A1arriba-music-and-dance-on-the-high-line

-Central Park Tango, at the Shakespeare Statue at the south end of the Mall; runs from 66th to 72nd Sts, every Sat 6pm-8pm
http://dguides.com/newyorkcity/features/free-dance-lessons/

-Dancing under the Stars/Zumba fitness, Beach 108th Street Hockey Rink (in Rockaway Beach Boardwalk), Queens, every Wed at 7:30pm
http://www.nycgovparks.org/events/2011/08/03/dancing-under-the-starszumba-fitness-with-lisa-g

-ZUMBA Thursdays in George Seuffert Bandshell (in Forest Park)
Woodhaven Boulevard and Forest Park Drive, Queens, every Th from 5pm until 6pm
http://www.eventbug.com/events/Other/Zumba-Thursday_2987.html

ILN!

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Somethings Got to Give

When the routine of going out does not excite you any longer and it seems to be just a waste of time, fundraising events can be a good alternative. Just think about it, you’re not just drinking, dancing and eating, but at the same time might save the penguins of Madagascar, feed children in Africa or support gay rights. You can really feel satisfied with your night out by giving a contribution and helping those who need it the most. At such events, you enjoy drink and music, get to walk on the red carpet, stare at celebs and most importantly meet big-hearted people like you. Fundraisings give to disparate New Yorkers an opportunity to unite under a common cause and witness the fruits of their labor (or money) and dedicate their hang out time to good deeds.

1. White Diamonds & Pink Roses (Breast Cancer Awareness)

Saturday, August 13, 2011 at 10:30 PM – Sunday, August 14, 2011 at 4:00 AM
@ the Luxurious Park Central Hotel 870 Seventh Avenue (btwn 55th & 56th)

The color scheme of this event will be set at Pink & White whether you are male or female… We intend to show our support to the victims, families, and woman struggling with Breast Cancer.

Music will be provided by:DJ GWiz of the Triangle Offense, DJ Dubz “The Most Anticipated”,DJ Mr Famous “Franchise Playa”,DJ Cookz “NYC Show Stoppa” of The BX Tag Team, DJ Legend “Da International”,

Advanced Tix: $30 (limited & way more at door)

2.  Pure Case of Sassiness

Saturday, August 13, 2011 from 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM
@ White Rabbit,145 East Houston Street

Music by DJ Flipstar

The goal of “Pure Case of Sassiness” is to bring awareness to PCOS (Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome), the most common hormonal disorder in the United States, affecting 1 in l0 women.

Admission into the event will be free with every guest walking home with a gift bag worth $100! We hope that everyone who attends will walk away with”Pure Case of Sassiness” and an enhanced awareness of their health.

Free

3. The Flammable Heart Exhibition – Private Showing

Thursday, August 11, 2011 from 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM
@ The Art Bazaar 175 Seventh Avenue (@W.20th St)

Proceeds from the event will help support MarbleRoad’s efforts to connect people who have complex illnesses with the resources they need to help them improve their lives. A portion of the proceeds will also benefit Lutheran Family Health Centers, a Brooklyn based integrated health system consisting of a hospital in Sunset Park and a network of community health centers who offer family-oriented comprehensive health and dental care, as well as a full range of specialty and support services. For the event, many artists have donated works to MarbleRoad, many of which have been inspired by an illness/health/wellness experience.

Fee 35$

4. For Fashion’s Sake

Friday, August 12, 2011 from 7:00 PM – 10:00 PM
@ Union Square Ballroom, 27 Union Square West

In May, six young, African-American designers competed for the chance that could launch their careers. Thanks to Harlem’s Fashion Row, four of them will present runway shows uptown on September 16, during the next New York Fashion Week.

After winning the public vote, these designers need a financial push towards the finish line as NY Fashion Week nears. The proceeds from “For Fashion’s Sake” will assist the designers with production costs as they near completion.

A raffle and a silent auction will be held.

Cocktail attire preferred.

Fee 25$

5. The World C.L.A.S.S. (New York Chapter) : Benefiting City Harvest & New York Public Library

Monthly Event – First Friday of every month: 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM
@ Rubin Museum of Art, 150 W. 17 Street b/w 6th & 7th Ave.

City Harvest exists to end hunger in communities throughout New York City. They do this through food rescue and distribution, education, and other practical, innovative solutions. City Harvest feeds 300,000 people a week in NYC.

RSVP is optional but preferred. All attendees must bring at least 1 donation item to guarantee entry to event. In-kind donation is mandatory. Canned Food or Books.

Free

6. Fall Fête Gala: Fashion.Art.Opera

Thursday, September 08, 2011 from 6:00 PM – 10:00 PM
@ Van Alen Mansion, 15 East 65th Street, New York

Opera Singers Initiative proudly presents our premiere event of the season, our Fall Fête Gala featuring top-notch opera singers and exciting emerging fashion designers.
Come and bid at our Silent Auction and pick up a great dinner for 2 at top New York restaurants, or one-of-a-kind fashion from next year’s Marc Jacobs.

Cocktails and Silent Auction starts at 6 PM followed by amazing opera and classical music at 7 PM.

Details:  6 PM Cocktails, 7 PM Performance, 8 PM Chocolate Reception

Tickets:  $65 Family & Friends, $75 Individual Ticket

7. Fashions by the Pool

Thursday, August 11, 2011 at 8:00 PM
@ Grace Hotel, 125 West 45th street

“Fashions by the pool” a charity event to benefit the American Institute For Cancer Research (AICR)  The event consists of red carpet celebrity interviews and pictures, fashion show with lots or media and press coverage.

Red carpet: 8PM, Fashion show 9:PM, After Party all night.

Fee  $20

For more information about the fundraisers above and many others go to the website:

http://www.eventbrite.com/

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Boat Parties

Summer in New York is the best time to give yourself a chance to get out from favorite bars, clubs and oh gash restaurants and get to acquainted with the greatest city in the world.

One of the best outdoor attractions in the summer are boat parties. This is a great compromise for those who cannot give up on clubbing and dancing. A boat party is a good chance to mingle, dance, enjoy the beautiful panorama of the city and get your lungs be ventilated. Even the morning after such a night out will be more benevolent to you.

1. Bounce Boat

Thursday August 11, 7:30 pm, Pier 83 (West 42 street), New York, NY

Music Provided by: Bobby Nourmand, Ken Loi, Claudius Raphael

http://events.nydailynews.com/new-york-ny/events/show/200184746-bounce-boat

2. The 5TH Annual All White Boat Party

Saturday August 13, 11 pm, Pier 40 (Houston ST & Hudson River Pkwy), New York, NY

Music By:  DJ Prostyle, DJ Crossova, DJ CRE-8; Music Style: Hip Hop & Latin MUSIC

http://events.nydailynews.com/new-york-ny/events/show/201797846-the-5th-annual-all-white-boat-party-saturday-august-13th-w-power105s-dj-prostyle-dj-crossova#ixzz1TtTJeLM4

3. Tropicana Friday

Friday, August 5, 8:00 pm, Pier 40

Dance to 2 live DJ’s spinning a smooth mix of R & B, Old School Hip Hop, Reggae, Top 40, Salsa, Merengue & more

http://www.affairsafloat.com/trop.html

4. The Brazilian cruise

Every Wednesday, 6:30, Pier 40, New York, NY

Two dance floors with live DJs feature feature sexy Brazilian music, the top-40 hits.

http://www.thebraziliancruise.com/

5. Liquid Sound Lounge Dance Boat Party

Friday, August 12 11:30 pm, East 23 set and East River, New York, NY

DJ Jeannie Hopper – LSL/AIR/WBAI, Jay Rodriguez – live on sax & flute, DJ Romain opening set

http://liquidsoundlounge.com/

6. Tu Ba Av Party & Cruise

Sunday, August 14, 7:00pm, Skyport Marina, E 23rd St and Fdr Dr, New York, NY

Tu Ba Av Love Boat Party for a Jewish Celebration of LOVE; : Live music by DJ Louie Mole- one of the top DJs in NYC!; Love Spell Cocktails; Speed Dating; Surprises for Singles; Tasty Tu Be Av Treats.

http://tu-be-av.eventbrite.com/