New York Ghost Tours

It should come as no surprise that there are ghost tours in New York. After all, one of the world's best ghost stories is set in Sleepy Hollow, NY. If you don't know which one I'm referring to, you should be ashamed of yourself. It's the Legend of Sleepy Hollow of course. Washington Irving's recount of the Headless Horseman and Ichabod Crane. But you don't have to travel to upstate New York or Niagara Falls to chase ghosts. You'll also find them near New York City, appropriately referred to as the city that never sleeps. The Amityville Horror, portrayed in a 1977 book by Jay Anson and later a hit movie, happened in Long Island in 1974 and the house has been the subject of controversy related to paranormal phenomenon ever since. Time Magazine named it one of the Top 10 Haunted Places in the world.

I'll add more information about these ghost tours soon. You can expect to find the length of the tour, mode of movement from place to place, reservation information, ticket price, parking information, and dates of tours when I am done. I apologize for not having this information up already.

If you have taken one of the following tours, I hope you will consider adding a review of the tour using the comment box found at the bottom of this page. Your review will be posted and help future visitors determine whether the ghost tour is worth their time and money.

If you work for a ghost tour, please feel free to leave additional information for consumers as well.

Here are the New York ghost tours:

Ghosts of New York

Ghost Doctors

New York Ghost Tours

Gotham Walking Tours

Dead Apple Tours

Fort Totten Park Haunted Lantern Tour

Ghosts, Murders and Mayhem Walking Tours

Haunted Manhattan Tour

Fort George Ghost Tours

Ghost Tours of Niagara

Buffalo Central Terminal Ghost Hunt

Buffalo Ghost Tour

Mason Winfield Ghost Walks

Haunted History Ghost Walks

Village Craftsmen Ghost and Historic Walking Tour

Sag Harbor Ghost Walk

Main Street Armory Ghost Walk

Rochester Candlelight Ghost Walk

Cooperstown Candlelight Ghost Tours

Sleepy Hollow Cemetary Walk

Source:

http://www.funtober.com/ghosttours/newyork/

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Bellini of Scarsdale Floor Sample Sale

Bellini of  Scarsdale Floor Sample Sale

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NYC School Information

Notify NYC School Alerts
Parents, sign-up or modify your Notify NYC account to receive school notifications and alerts, such as school delays, closings, and early dismissals.

Out-of-School Time Programs
The DYCD Out-of-School Time (OST) Programs for Youth is the largest after-school initiative in the nation. Provided at no cost, the City's OST programs offer a balanced mix of academic support, sports and recreational activities, the arts and cultural experiences.

NYC Leadership Academy
The mission of the NYC Leadership Academy is to prepare and support visionary, passionate educators who lead schools that orient all their activities around accelerating student learning and academic growth.


OneCampusNYC
OneCampusNYC connects New York City's university students and faculty to City resources and offers up a taste of what it's like to be part of the NYC academic community.


Become a Mentor
Mentors provide friendship, support, and act as real-life role models to help young adults between the ages of 14 and 21 who are living in NYC Children's Services Direct Care programs.


Charter Schools
Get applications and deadline information, fiscal guidelines and forms, and a directory of schools from the Public Schools Choice Program.

Alumni for Public Schools
Join your classmates in the first-ever New York City public school alumni organization.

Children First Intensive
Children First Intensive (CFI) is a professional development program designed to support educators in using data to inform instructional and organizational decision-making.

Choices & Enrollment
Learn more about the registration and admissions process of the NYC Public School System by visiting the Department of Education's website.

FAQ: Public Schools
Find out how to enroll your child in school, how to change schools mid-year, find out your school district, get your child immunized, and more in the NYC.gov frequently asked questions (FAQ) about public schools section.

The Fund for Public Schools
The Department of Education has created the Fund for Public Schools to work with corporations, foundations, individuals, and nonprofits in support of public education in the city.

High School Directory
The High School Directory provides detailed descriptions of over 400 New York City public high schools, including information and programs, extracurricular activities, and eligibility.

Immigrants Access to Public Schools
In New York City, every child between the ages of 5 and 21 who has not received a high school diploma is entitled to attend public school in the district in which he or she lives.

NYC Public School Information
Visit the NYC Department of Education website to lookup names, addresses, and phone numbers of all New York City public schools.


Office of School Safety
Find out how the Department of Education is addressing issues of school safety and security.

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Beverly Hills Chihuahua 3 Activity Sheet

Visit Confessions of an over-worked Mom to print you copy

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10 Workplace Rights You Think You Have -- But Don't -

This is a really great article. Must Read

This article is from Aol.com, by Donna Ballman

10 Workplace Rights You Think You Have -- But Don't

1. "I was wrongfully terminated."

Maybe if you lived in Montana you'd have a point. Montana is the only state in the nation with a law saying you can only be fired for just cause. Otherwise, you live in an at-will state. That means you can be fired for any reason or no reason at all. They don't have to have a good reason. They don't even have to give a reason in most states. Boss in a bad mood? He or she can fire you. HR didn't like the shoes you wore that day? Buh-bye.

2. "I know I have the right to see my file."

Probably not, so don't go stomping into HR and making demands. No federal law requires private employers to allow employees to inspect or copy their own personnel files. Only some states require employers to allow you to look at your file and even fewer require your employer to allow you to copy items in your file. Many times, the only way you'll find out what's in your file is if you sue and you get it with a Request for Production, or if you subpoena it in unemployment or other proceedings.

3. "I demand my break right now."

Yeah, only problem with this is that no federal law requires employers to offer any work breaks for anything, even meals. Some state laws do require work breaks, but it's not a majority. No federal law even requires bathroom breaks, but it's probably a health issue, so OSHA might protect you if your employer denies bathroom breaks. If you're a nursing mother, you're entitled to an unpaid break to express breast milk if your employer is big enough. Some states also offer protection for nursing moms taking breaks. Lots of people get fired for insisting on breaks they're not entitled to. Don't do it.

4. "I'm working in a hostile environment."

It's pretty much your boss's job to create a hostile work environment. A hostile environment is not illegal. Workplace harassment is not illegal. Bullying is not illegal in any state. Only hostile environment or harassment due to race, age, sex, religion, national origin, disability, color, taking Family and Medical Leave, whistle blowing, or some other legally-protected status is illegal.

5. "I exercised my First Amendment rights."

If you work for a private employer, you really shouldn't have done that. Only government employees have free speech protections, and those are very limited. Otherwise, you can be fired in most states for your speech (including political speech) in the workplace or outside the workplace. You can't be fired for speaking on behalf of coworkers in order to improve work conditions or for objecting to something illegal, but be very careful to make sure you're protected before you speak out.

6. "My boss invaded my privacy."

Your boss can read your work e-mails and monitor your Internet usage at work. If your employer is going to listen into or record phone calls, there are some legal restrictions. You also have privacy rights in your medical information. There is no federal law protecting your social security number, but California and New York do offer limited protection against employers displaying your number.

7. "But this is a right to work state."

Hopefully you didn't say that right before you signed a non-compete agreement. Right to work doesn't mean your employer can't restrict your ability to work for competitors after you leave. What it means is they can't make you join a union in order to work there. Some states, but not all, are right to work states. If your supervisor tells you that signing a non-compete agreement is meaningless or that it won't be enforced, they are lying to you.

8. "I was retaliated against after I complained."

Oh no. Tell me you didn't write a long letter complaining about your boss being unprofessional or incompetent. There is no law prohibiting an employer from retaliating against you for reporting or objecting to policy violations, ethical violations, bullying, or the fact that your boss is a jerk. If you do something that puts you in a legally protected category, you may be protected from retaliation. Examples would be objecting to discrimination, making a worker's comp claim, or taking Family and Medical Leave.

9. "I was discriminated against because my boss didn't like me."

If your boss is discriminating against you for being you, that isn't illegal. Favoritism, nepotism, and being obnoxious are not illegal. Discrimination based on age, pregnancy, race, sex, religion, national origin, disability, color and genetic information are illegal. In some states, other categories such as sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, and being a domestic violence victim are protected.

10. "I not only want to sue my company -- I want to sue my boss."

As much as it may be satisfying to sue your ex-boss personally, you probably can't. Federal and many state discrimination laws, Family and Medical Leave Act (in some states the courts disagree on this), and most other employment laws simply don't allow it. One major exception is wage and hour violations. Some state discrimination laws do hold supervisors liable for violations. But what's the point? Unless they're rich, you probably won't be able to collect anyhow.

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Kraft Foods Voluntarily Recalls Jalapeno Variety of Kraft String Cheese

The below is from the Kraft website

Kraft Foods Voluntarily Recalls Jalapeno Variety of Kraft String Cheese

Northfield, IL - October 8, 2012 – Kraft Foods Group, Inc. is voluntarily recalling the Jalapeno variety of Kraft String Cheese with the Best When Used By date of 23 NOV 2012 as a precaution due to the possibility that a thin layer of plastic film from the package may remain adhered to the product.  If the film sticks to the cheese and is not removed, it could potentially cause a choking hazard.
The following single code date of this product is being recalled:

Name of Product	Size	Best When Used By Date	UPC
Kraft String Cheese - Jalapeno Cheese	12oz bag with      12 individual 1 oz snacks	23 NOV 2012	2100002977

Consumers can find the Best When Used By date on the back of the 12 oz package in the lower-right corner.

No other code dates of Kraft Jalapeno String Cheese and no other varieties of Kraft String Cheese or any other Kraft Foods products are being recalled.
There has been one consumer complaint.   Approximately 2,700 cases of the affected product were shipped to customers across the United States. The affected product was not distributed in Canada.
Consumers who purchased the product with the Best When Used By date of 23 NOV 2012 should not eat it. They should return it to the store of purchase for an exchange or full refund. Consumers also can contact Kraft Foods Consumer Relations Monday through Friday at 1-800-396-2133.
 The affected product was produced in Campbell, NY.
ABOUT KRAFT FOODS GROUP
Kraft Foods Group, Inc. (NASDAQ: KRFT) is a new company that has been around 109 years.  North America’s fourth largest consumer packaged food and beverage company, Kraft had revenues of approximately $19 billion in 2011. The company has an unrivaled portfolio of products in the beverages, cheese, convenient meals and grocery categories. Its iconic brands include Kraft, Maxwell House, Oscar Mayer, Planters and JELL-O. Kraft’s 25,000 employees in the U.S. and Canada have a passion for making the foods and beverages people love. Kraft Foods Group became an independent company on Oct. 1, 2012 and will be a member of the Standard & Poor’s 500 index. For more information, visit www.kraft.com.

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DIY tape keyboard

DIY Washi Tape Laptop Keyboard

For instructions go to Masking-tape

---

Source

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Free subscription to THRIVING FAMILY magazine

Thriving Family, a Christian marriage and parenting magazine from Focus on the Family, is free to anyone who requests it!

In every issue, you'll get:

   • age-specific parenting advice 
   • faith-based family activities
   • marriage tips
   • book reviews
   • support for single parents and 
     blended families and much more!

Here are two ways to subscribe:

 Get a FREE subscription by calling us at 800-A-FAMILY (232-6459) weekdays during business hours. Your subscription is free. 

Get a free subscription by ordering through CBD online. (Although you'll need to fill out your credit card information, you won't be charged for a subscription.)

Download Thriving Family to your iPad or iPhone or as adigital version on your favorite browser. The iPad, iPhone and digital versions are free! So get this amazing marriage and parenting resource today! 

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NYC Bridal Gown Store Directory

NYC Bridal Gown Store Directory

Thanks for New York Magazine for putting this great list together

57Grand.com

All the gowns on this site are locally made, including best sellers like the Trinity ($1,500), which features a removable tulle skirt, and the ruffled silk-cotton chiffon Boathouse ($775). Jewel-toned bridesmaid dresses are also available (from $155).

Adriennes

156 Orchard St., nr. Rivington St.; 212-475-4206; adriennesny.com

Owner Maryann Greco specializes in custom gowns—lacy sheaths based on vintage looks ($1,000–$4,500), for example—but she also carries designs by major names like Jim Hjelm and an extensive collection of bridesmaid dresses. By appointment only.

Albright Fashion Library

62 Cooper Sq., nr. Astor Pl.; 212-977-7350; albrightnyc.com

Perennially chic Irene Albright’s 7,000-square-foot rent-a-frock closet brims with high-end showstoppers from the likes of Balenciaga and Balmain (not to mention a whopping 7,000 pairs of shoes). Rentals start at $1,000.

Amsale

625 Madison Ave., nr. 58th St., second fl.; 212-583-1700; amsale.com

Amsale Aberra’s crisp made-to-order gowns start at $3,500. Brides can also check out her more affordable Little White Dress line (from $950). Alterations are a flat fee of $575. By appointment only. (good value)

Angelo Lambrou

96 E. 7th St., nr. First Ave.; 212-460-9870; angelolambrou.com

Ladies seeking simple silk gowns with a twist (from $2,000) will love this boutique, where silhouettes are embellished with bias cuts and Lambrou’s signature wrapping and weaving. By appointment only.

Ann Hamilton Bridal

212-625-8622; annhamiltonbridal.com

For brides who love Mom’s sixties silhouette but hate her frumpy sleeves, this designer restores, resizes, and restyles vintage gowns ($600–$2,000). Alterations from $250. By appointment only.

AnneBarge.com

Barge’s couture designs have been featured in Brides and Town & Country Weddings. She offers three distinct collections to fit every budget; hand-beaded and embroidered Italian silk Black Label gowns start at $7,000.

Bergdorf Goodman

754 Fifth Ave., at 58th St.; 212-872-8957; bergdorfgoodman.com

In the Art Deco wedding salon, brides can peruse gowns by Ines Di Santo, Oscar de la Renta, Vera Wang, Monique Lhuillier, and Marchesa, among others. Gowns start at $3,800.

Bhldn.com

The vintage-inspired bridal line from the Urban Outfitters family (which includes Anthropologie and Free People) offers a finely edited collection of wedding gowns, bridesmaid dresses, and accessories. Look out for designer collabs with Anna Sui, Tracy Reese, and Catherine Deane, among others. Bridal gowns are $1,000 to $6,000; bridesmaid and party dresses are $200 to $600.

Birnbaum & Bullock

151 W. 25th St., nr. Seventh Ave., Ste. 2A; 212-242-2914; birnbaumandbullock.com

This atelier features three lines, each with its own price points: Robert Bullock Bride runs $1,450 to $2,500; the Steven Birnbaum Collection, $1,700 to $2,700; and the couture Birnbaum & Bullock Collection, $3,000 to $9,500. By appointment only.

Blue

248 Mott St., nr. Prince St.; 212-228-7744Designer Christina Kara shows off her modern twists on the traditional gown, offering twenty customizable silhouettes for brides (from $800).

The Bridal Garden

54 W. 21st St., nr. Sixth Ave., Ste. 901; 212-252-0661; bridalgarden.orgThis not-for-profit bridal boutique offers well-kept pre-worn gowns in addition to new dresses donated by Vera Wang, Ulla-Maija, and Elizabeth Fillmore (from $500). By appointment only.

Bridal Reflections

260 Fifth Ave., nr. 29th St., fourth fl.; 212-764-3040; bridalreflections.comThis bustling grand-scale salon offers unhurried personal service, impeccable on-site tailoring, and gowns by a variety of designers, including Romona Keveža and Ines Di Santo (from $3,500). It also carries shoes, accessories, and eveningwear.

Carolina Herrera

954 Madison Ave., at 75th St.; 212-249-6552; carolinaherrera.comHerrera’s bridal salon draws women looking for high-fashion elegance. Her spring 2012 collection features sweetheart bodices, Chantilly lace detail, and an abundance of strapless stunners (from $5,000).

Colette Komm

212-580-2690; colettekomm.comKomm, a Parsons-trained designer and Vera Wang alum, handcrafts each of her couture gowns, from preliminary sketches through final construction. Her dresses have been featured in Elegant Bride and Martha Stewart Weddings. Prices upon request.

Coren Moore

250 W. 39th St., nr. Eighth Ave., fourth fl.; 212-731-2017; corenmoore.comThis designer’s well-edited showroom is perfect for brides seeking flattering, fastidiously made looks. The princessy A-line Francie dress starts at $1,800.

Cymbeline Paris

5 E. 19th St., nr. Fifth Ave., second fl.; 212-671-1051; cymbelineusa.comFounded by three sisters from the south of France, Cymbeline offers an assortment of Parisian-chic gowns made from luxurious Alençon and Chantilly laces (from $2,000). Elegant veils and mantillas (from $150 for short, $450 for long) are crafted from the same fine materials, so brides can purchase one to match on the spot. By appointment only.

David's Bridal

751 Sixth Ave., at 25th St.; 646-827-4050; davidsbridal.comThe ultimate destination for affordable dresses offers the exclusive spring 2012 White by Vera Wang diffusion line (from $528). There’s also a house collection, plus gowns by Galina and Oleg Cassini. Savvy shoppers should check for oft-featured “99-Dollar Days.” (good value)

Designer Loft

226 W. 37th St., nr. Seventh Ave., second fl.; 212-944-9013; designerloftnyc.comThis full-service atelier stocks looks by coveted indie bridal designers like Jenny Packham and Jessica Zamir. It also has more conservative dresses for Jewish and Greek Orthodox ceremonies. Custom gowns from $2,500. By appointment only.

Fancy New York

1133 Broadway, nr. 26th St., Ste. 1405; 212-234-4303; dressmefancy.comWith a mid-century-modern sensibility, this made-to-measure line is perfect for fashion-forward brides. Highlights include the Fiona ($1,815), a strapless number with three tiers of ribbon-edged silk organza, and the Dawn ($1,705), a silk-linen column dress with a drawstring neck. By appoint­ment only.

Fancy Wedding Center

1888 Stillwell Ave., nr. Avenue S, Bensonhurst; 718-234-3442;fancyweddingcenter.com

This rental mecca stocks hundreds of gowns by Morilee and Mary’s Bridal. From $199 for three days. By appointment only. (good value)

Gabriella New York

400 W. 14th St., nr. Ninth Ave., Ste. 2A; 212-206-1915; gabriellanewyork.com

Gabriella Risatti carries exclusive styles from fifteen designers, including Elizabeth Fillmore, Jenny Packham, and Marchesa ($2,000–$12,000).

Jane Wilson-Marquis

42 E. 76th St., nr. Madison Ave.; 20 W. 20th St., nr. Fifth Ave., Ste. 600; 212-452-5335; bridalgowns.net

This boutique specializes in elegant custom-made gowns (from $4,000). The Simply Jane line at the downtown location lets brides choose from a series of basic dresses (from $1,000) that can be embellished with couture details.

Jennifer Dule Couture

89 Fifth Ave., nr. 17th St., fourth fl.; 212-727-8700

Dule and her team of designers have 30 years of experience crafting everything from gowns and mother-of-the-bride outfits to intricate veils and accessories. Custom gowns with imported silk lining and hand-embroidered detailing start at $3,000. By appointment only.

Junko Yoshioka

224 Fifth Ave., nr. 26th St., second fl.; 212-206-9302; junkoyoshioka.com

All of Yoshioka’s gowns are made in this Flatiron atelier. The spring 2012 collection (from $3,000) features the Azalea, a strapless silk A-line with a tulle skirt, and the Mimosa, a strapless piqué gown with an asymmetrical tulle overlay and fiddlehead-fern beading. By appointment only.

Jussara Lee

60 Bedford St., nr. Morton St.; 212-242-4128; jussaralee.com

Brides-to-be flock to Lee for her unparalleled fitting abilities. Her understated designs, like plain-silk ­halter gowns and sophisticated organza strapless dresses (from $3,500), run the gamut. She can also custom-design white tuxedos for both men and women. By appointment only.

Kathryn Conover Bridal

108 W. 39th St., nr. Sixth Ave., Ste. 1306; 212-464-7675; kathrynconover.net

This former eveningwear designer and her team of seamsters and beaders will create anything you can dream up (from $1,500). By appointment only.

Kleinfeld

110 W. 20th St., nr. Sixth Ave.; 646-633-4300; kleinfeldbridal.com

This famously plush full-service salon has more designer bridal gowns than any other store in the world. Standouts include such big names as Pnina Tornai, Anne Barge, Rosa Clara, and Angel Rivera. By appointment only.

Lotus Bridal

1822 Ave. U, at E. 19th St., Sheepshead Bay; 718-332-4385; lotusbridal.com

This one-stop shop for brides has elegant designer gowns (from $800) and bridesmaid dresses (from $160), plus beauty services (day-of hair and makeup for the bride is $400). Featured designers include Maggie Sottero and San Patrick. (good value)

Lovely

313 W. 4th St., nr. 12th St.; 212-924-2050; lovelybride.com

The bridal gowns in this quaint townhouse range from simple silhouettes by up-and-comer Elizabeth Dye to red-carpet-ready designs by Badgley Mischka ($700–$6,000). Hair accessories range from $50 to $350. By appointment only. (good value)

Mark Ingram Bridal Atelier

110 E. 55th St., nr. Park Ave., eighth fl.; 212-319-6778; bridalatelier.com

This meticulously curated space offers brides-to-be the opportunity to test-drive some of the biggest names in bridal couture: Monique Lhuillier, Vera Wang, Angel Sanchez, Oscar de la Renta, and more (from $5,000). By appointment only.

Matthew Williamson

415 W. 14th St., nr. Ninth Ave.; 212-255-9881; matthewwilliamson.com

Offering a handful of ready-to-wear gowns, this shop specializes in custom couture pieces with feminine silhouettes, hand-beading, and embroidery. Favorites include an asymmetrical silk-tulle gown embellished with feathers ($8,000) and a hand-beaded shift ($5,995). By appointment only.

Michelle New York Brides

396 Atlantic Ave., nr. Bond St., Boerum Hill; 718-643-1680; michellenewyork.com

Michelle Fields’s gown assortment is romantic and chic ($700–$5,000). She offers custom dresses for bridesmaids (from $250) and flower girls (from $175), as well as jewelry ($70 for crystal-encrusted bird earrings by Elizabeth Cole). By appointment only. (good value)

Mika Inatome Custom Bridal

325 W. 38th St., nr. Eighth Ave., Ste. 407; 212-966-7777; mikainatome.com

Inatome has a reputation as a master of slender, custom-made mermaid gowns. Her airy loft is filled with about 300 chic, modern dresses ($1,700–$5,000), and everything is done by hand. By appointment only.

Modern Trousseau

552 Seventh Ave., at 40th St., Ste. 301; 212-278-8030; moderntrousseaunyc.com

This atelier uses fine Italian silks and French lace to craft each custom gown ($2,200–$6,200). One seamstress creates the dress from start to finish, and brides receive a custom label embroidered with her name or wedding date. The brand also offers embroidered belts and sashes, boleros, and veils.

Morgane Le Fay

980 Madison Ave., nr. 64th St.; 212-879-9700; 67 Wooster St., nr. Spring St.; 212-219-7672; morganelefay.com

Designer Liliana Casabal’s bridal collection ($900–$5,000, including alterations) features luxe fabrics like ivory silk, organza, taffeta, duchess satin, and chiffon. Her designs have been worn by Halle Berry and Björk. (good value)

Nicole Miller

77 Greene St., nr. Spring St.; 212-219-1825; nicolemiller.com

Miller’s understated gowns ($595–$3,000) appeal to the free-spirited bride and often feature impeccable draping, column-style cuts, and sexy open backs. By appointment only. (good value)

Paula Varsalona for the Bride

552 Seventh Ave., nr. 40th St., Ste. 602; 212-221-5600; paulavarsalona.com

Varsalona’s formal V collection features strapless gowns with sculpted bodices (from $2,000); the Crème collection showcases elaborate beading and thread work (from $3,000).

Pronovias

14 E. 52nd St., nr. Fifth Ave.; 212-897-6393; pronovias.com

This five-story Spanish boutique features some of the finest fitting rooms in the city. Gowns start at $700 and flaunt lace, bustier-style corsets, cascades of ruffles, floral embroidery, princessy ball gowns, flowing trains, and pleated Paris organza. By appointment only.

Reem Acra

730 Fifth Ave., nr. 57th St., Ste. 205; 212-308-8760; reemacra.com

Acra’s high-fashion designs hit the right note between red-carpet glamour and pared-down sophistication. Brides adore both the custom couture (from $35,000) and ready-to-wear gowns (from $3,500).

Saja

250 Elizabeth St., nr. Houston St.; 212-226-7570; sajawedding.com

Yoo Lee’s boutique offers a whimsical collection of off-white “nontraditional, ethereal” 100 percent silk gowns. Starting as low as $595 for short and $795 for long, the dresses max out at $1,800. (good value)

The Sample Room NY

40 W. 17th St., nr. Sixth Ave., Ste. 2B; 212-929-8868; thesampleroomny.com

With options from Jenny Packham and Réva Mivasagar, this shop offers a huge selection of designer gowns and accessory samples at up to 80 percent off retail prices. Gowns start at $500. (good value)

Samuelle Couture

347-607-0086; samuellecouture.com

British designer Sam Walls Beasley blends classic English styling with contemporary romanticism in her bespoke gowns, which often incorporate vintage textiles and trims, hand-dyed silks, and semi-sculptural brocades. She also gives each client a custom watercolor painting of her gown. Prices upon request.

Selia Yang

71 Franklin St., nr. Broadway; 212-941-9073; seliayang.com

Yang’s dresses can be stunning (the skirt of the strapless Ahna is covered with silk flower accents) or subtle (the fitted silk Chloe has a one-shoulder tulle strap). Made-to-order gowns start at $2,600. Off-the-rack designer ones are sold at up to 60 percent off. By appointment only. (good value)

Shopbop.com

Shopbop’s wedding boutique features dresses by big names like Halston Heritage, Robert Rodriguez, Temperley London, and Notte by Marchesa, in addition to smaller, local designers. Dresses are $195 to $5,000, accessories $20 to $290, shoes $225 to $1,195, and jewelry $98 to $590.

TheAisleNewYork.com

This flash-sale site curates pieces from exclusive brands and sells them for up to 70 percent off the retail price. Select lines, like Oscar de la Renta accessories and Loeffler Randall shoes, are always available, and brides can feel good knowing that a portion of their purchase goes to a charity of the designer’s choice.

VeKa Bridal

412 Atlantic Ave., nr. Bond St., Boerum Hill; 718-222-1178; vekabridal.com

Proprietors Ksenia Kaliaguina and Jana Vendeland stock their Brooklyn showroom with gowns by American and European designers, including Palazzo, Adele Wechsler, and Suzanne Ermann; the focus is on fresh, playful designs ($1,500–$4,500). Alterations start at $300. By appointment only.

Vera Wang Bridal House

991 Madison Ave., nr. 77th St.; 212-628-3400; verawang.com

The grande dame of bridalwear offers dresses (from $3,000) to suit every taste. Silhouettes include simple A-lines and voluminous, full-skirted showstoppers; and Wang’s most recent bridal collection features dresses in statement-making blacks and nudes. The upscale boutique is also a go-to for footwear and accessories. By appointment only.

Wedding Atelier

103 Fifth Ave, nr. 18th St., second fl.; 646-638-3263; weddingatelier.com

This shop carries popular designers such as Tara Keely and Cymbeline Paris. The staff can ready an off-the-rack dress in ten days or custom-make one in ten weeks, if necessary. Gowns start at $1,500; bridesmaid and mother-of-the-bride dresses are in stock, too. By appointment only.

The White Gown

69 Jay St., at Greenwich St., Dumbo; 718-222-4696; thewhitegown.com

This laid-back Brooklyn boutique carries modern, vintage-inspired, and avant-garde gowns ($1,000–$5,000) from Blush by Jim Hjelm, Amsale, Enzoani, Alyne by Rivini, and David Fielden; bridesmaid and cocktail dresses top out at $350. The shop also offers cleaning and preservation services, and in-house seamstresses are on hand.

Source

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Great Jack O’ Lantern Blaze

Great Jack O' Lantern Blaze 

The tri-state area's biggest, most exciting, most electrifying Halloween event returns for a whopping 22 nights in 2012!

See more than 5,000 individually hand-carved, illuminated jack o' lanterns in this elaborate walk-through experience. Meander through an historic, 18th-century riverside landscape and discover a breathtaking display – all made of jack o' lanterns! Stroll through the Tunnel O' Pumpkin Love and emerge to the incredible sight of gourd-filled Jack-in-the-Box springing up and bouncing around. Flying pumpkin ghosts will soar above the lantern-lit path.

Could 2012 really be THE END? Consult our Pumpkin Prophesy doomsday grandfather clock for an answer. See slithering snakes, a giant spider web, an undersea aquarium, and super-sized dinosaurs.

Go gaga over a collection of Little Monsters. Come gawk and gaze at more jack o'lanterns than ever before. Tens of thousands of visitors experienced last year's sold-out Blaze^®. Complete with sound effects, elaborate synchronized lighting and original, atmospheric music, this not-to-be-missed spectacle is the area's most innovative Halloween happening.

Tickets

Adults, $16; Children 3-17, $12  (Saturdays $20, $16)
FREE for children under 3 + members

Accessibility

Blaze is handicapped accessible, as there are no stairs to negotiate through the installation. However, there are some narrow and slightly sloped brick paths and it is a walk-through experience along uneven, unpaved, soft-surface terrain. Handicapped parking is available, but your car must display a handicapped placard or plate.

FAQ about Great Jack O' Lantern Blaze

1. So what's this Blaze business all about? 
The Great Jack O' Lantern Blaze is a fall spectacle integrating thousands of hand-carved jack o'lanterns — everything from your standard Jack to extremely elaborate abstract designs — lit up throughout the landscape of Van Cortlandt Manor in Croton-on-Hudson, N.Y., in various arrangements — thematic, conceptual, and otherwise. While this event pays tribute to Halloween and Sleepy Hollow Country, Blaze transcends its Halloween roots and is now a classic fall festival.

2. And what's that got to do with Van Cortlandt Manor?
Blaze's creative director, Michael Natiello, said the true inspiration for Blaze is the landscape of Van Cortlandt Manor. The event is really a land art installation informed by artists such as Michael Heizer, Robert Smithson, Donald Judd, and Andy Goldsworthy. Various arrangements and placements of pumpkins are meant to complement and draw attention to the site's architecture, history, and landscape.

3. Anything new at Blaze this year for returning visitors?
The carvers have gone completely overboard this year. Stroll through the Tunnel O' Pumpkin Love and emerge to the incredible sight of gourd-filled Jack-in-the-Box springing up and bouncing around. Could 2012 really be THE END? Consult our Pumpkin Prophesy doomsday grandfather clock for an answer. Go gaga over a collection of shrunken Little Monsters and gaze in amazement at a towering pumpkin bonfire.

4. Fascinating! But with the economy looking up, up, up, I find myself doing that as well. Anything to see skyward?
Floating and flying pumpkin ghosts will soar above the lantern-lit path.

5. Whoa! The only thing crazier than that would be living, breathing Pumpkin People roaming the grounds!
Funny you should mention it, as there will be living, breathing Pumpkin People roaming the grounds this year.

6. Living, breathing Pumpkin People…for real?
YES!

7. Did I mention I'm studying for a certificate in Freudian analysis?
Great, you might enjoy our installation of shrunken heads.

8. Does Blaze have an official soundtrack?
Yes. BRAND NEW this year is Blaze: The Soundtrack, featuring 80 minutes of music from, about, and inspired by Blaze, created by recording artist, radio personality and Halloween fanatic Richard Christy. Click here for more info.

9. I'm tempted by all this, but I need a little more convincing. Did a tastemaker, like, for example, Martha Stewart, ever say anything about the Blaze?
Funny you should ask! Martha herself called the event a "Halloween extravaganza" when she featured the event and Michael Natiello in a 12-minute segment on her show. She even carved jack o'lanterns with Michael Natiello in her studio! You can see a clip she posted from the show on her YouTube channel.

10. Martha's great…but what about the people. What do the people say?
Want to see what actual Blaze visitors had to say about their experience? Check out this YouTube video.

11. Is there anything else like this anywhere else?
Absolutely not! This event is so one-of-a-kind, the name (and the 'Blaze' shorthand) are registered trademarks!

12. OK, now I can hardly wait. When can I see Blaze this year?Blaze takes place on 22 evenings, the most ever! Visit Saturday through Monday, Oct. 6-8 (Columbus Day weekend); Friday through Sunday, Oct. 12-14; Friday through Sunday, Oct. 19-21; Thursday through Wednesday, Oct. 25-31; Friday through Sunday, Nov. 2-4; and Friday through Sunday, Nov. 9-11.

13. If I don't photograph an experience, it's like it never happened. May I photograph at Blaze? Got any tips for capturing the moment?
You may, but you must leave tripods and monopods at home. Also, you should know that using an overaggressive flash, besides temporarily blinding those around you, just might ruin your pictures. To ideally capture the ambient light of the jack o'lanterns, use a slow synch or nighttime setting. Post your best work online and share it with us!

14. Do I really have to leave my tripod and monopod at home?
Yes. Please.

15. Now that I've cured my cucurbitophobia, I need some scary, non-pumpkin-experiences. What are my non-Blaze options?
If you're ready to be scared out of your mind, pay a visit to Horseman's Hollow at Philipsburg Manor, a Historic Hudson Valley event back for its third straight year and designed to scare the pants off of you (not literally, of course). Click here for details!

16. And what else can I do in Sleepy Hollow Country?
You can experience a live performance of Irving's 'Legend,' where master storyteller Jonathan Kruk offers a dramatic re-telling of The Legend of Sleepy Hollow in the incredible candlelit setting of the Old Dutch Church, just across the street from Philipsburg Manor. Click here for details.

17. Filling my nights with Halloween delights is not enough, what can I do during the day?
Consider exploring Legend Celebration at Washington Irving's Sunnyside. This daytime festival features ghost stories, live music, magicians, puppeteers and a mime scarecrow! It's particularly fun for the youngsters. Click here for details.

18. Now my Halloween appetite is insatiable, but I'm a newly licensed social media guru and thousands are living vicariously through me online. Can I tweet/Facebook/Flickr/YouTube with you?
Yes. Tweet at us on Twitter atwww.twitter.com/HHValley
Become a fan of Blaze on Facebook here.
Check out our Flickr page here.
Check out our YouTube page here.
Check out our blog here.

19. Being a social media guru, I can only attend events that have an unofficial "official" hashtag. Might there be one for Blaze?
#PumpkinBlaze. Tweet it up!

20. Back to the basics. How many pumpkins go under the knife for this event?
You'll find more than 5,000 hand-carved jack o'lanterns lit up throughout the landscape.

21. My time is money. How long does it take to see all of Blaze?
Approximately 45 minutes.

22. I hear Blaze has "themed" areas. Is one the theme from Hawaii Five-0?
Themed areas include the Skeleton Emergence; ancient Greece, featuring mythological characters; Jurassic Park, featuring dinosaurs; the Undersea Aquarium, featuring carvings of fish and other oceanic life; Circus Arena; Buzzing Beehive, and many more.

23. When I'm viewing thousands of jack o'lanterns in one space, ambience is key. How will you satisfy that need?
Professional lighting designer Jay Woods works with the Blaze team to create an atmospheric tableau that enhances the carving artistry and transforms the Manor House into an amazing, ever-changing spectacle. Synchronized lighting means several of the installations will be "moving." Very cool!

24. Are those real pumpkins?
Many are real and some are "art pumpkins." But EVERY SINGLE JACK O'LANTERN is individually hand-carved on site at Van Cortlandt Manor by our team. For curatorial considerations (such as areas where the historic buildings could be damaged), and where the hand-carving is very intricate and worthy of being preserved, "art pumpkins" are used along with live ones.

25. I bet it's a lot easier to carve these art pumpkins than it is to carve real ones. Right?
Actually, it's harder. Both are well-suited for carving work, certainly, but nature's canvas is much more pliable.

26. And just how much pumpkin are we talking here?
Because not all the pumpkins survive for the full run of Blaze, we order approximately 6,000 live pumpkins, which weigh between five and fifty pounds each. They are delivered in 96-cubic-foot containers on three flatbed trucks (24 bins per truck). All told that's more than 100,000 pounds o' pumpkin!

27. I've never heard of this "pumpkin." Tell me about them!
Pumpkins are fruits. A pumpkin is a type of squash and is a member of the gourd family (Cucurbitacae), which also includes squash, cucumbers, gherkins, and melons. They have been grown in North America for five thousand years and are indigenous to the western hemisphere. In 1584, after French explorer Jacques Cartier explored the St. Lawrence region of North America, he reported finding "gros melons." The name was translated into English as "pompions," which has since evolved into the modern "pumpkin."

28. Who carved all these pumpkins and how long does it take?
Creative Director Michael Natiello leads a team of Historic Hudson Valley staff, volunteers, and local artists. Check out our Meet the Carvers video series on ourYouTube channel for interviews with them.

29. And what about the prep work?
In 2011, more than 1,000(!) volunteers helped Blaze by doing vital scooping and lighting work. Among the organization's helping with the scooping and lighting this year are New York Life Insurance Company, Croton Cheer, Westchester and Putnam ARC, Another Step, Community Based Services, YAI, Rye Country Day School, Heart of the Hudson Girl Scouts, Stamford (Conn.) Girl Scouts and Boy Scouts, Historic Hudson Valley staff and volunteers from all of our sites, and many others who just like to pitch in! The New York Life Insurance Company and Rye Country Day School in particular deserve special mention this year for the outstanding job they are doing recruiting scores of volunteers.

30. This is a LOT of work! When exactly did the carving begin?
Carving of the art pumpkins began in June. The real pumpkins are carved throughout the run of Blaze. Prior to each event week, it takes 15 to 20 volunteers several days of scooping pulp and seeds from the pumpkins to get them ready for the carvers. Many of the pumpkins must be replaced during the event's five-week run.

31. Wow! What else do the volunteers do?
During each night of the event, it takes 15 to 20 volunteers to light the votive candles in the pumpkins. They start lighting about three hours before the event begins.

32. I like lighting up the lives of others and my dog gives me plenty of scooping practice. Can I volunteer?
Absolutely, contact Cheryl Bernstein and tell her about your interest.

33. Where can I learn how to carve elaborate designs on a pumpkin?
CLICK HERE for some tips from Michael Natiello on taking your pumpkin carving to the next level. You will also find a selection of books about pumpkin carving at the Great Jack O' Lantern Blaze Shop.

34. You must seriously pack in the visitors. How many people come to Van Cortlandt Manor for Blaze?
Last year's event drew more than 80,000 visitors, nearly four-and-a-half times more than the 18,000 who visited in 2005, the event's first year.

35. Is Blaze handicapped accessible? What about strollers?Blaze is handicapped accessible, as there are no stairs to negotiate through the installation. However, there are some narrow and slightly sloped brick paths and it is a walk-through experience along uneven, unpaved, soft-surface terrain. Handicapped parking is available, but your car must display a handicapped placard or plate. Strollers are permitted, but keep in mind that strollers which are particularly wide may not fit through some of the site's more narrow passageways.

36. I love to procrastinate and show up to events without RSVPing. Do I reallyhave to buy tickets in advance?
Absolutely! In order to safely accommodate the thousands of visitors who attend Blaze each evening, and to ensure a pleasant environment for all, advance reservations are a MUST, even for Historic Hudson Valley Members. Non-members and members alike must choose in advance the date and time slot they want to visit. This event sold out last year and hundreds were turned away, so buy your tickets now to secure the times you want.

37. I'm a proud member of Historic Hudson Valley, do I need a reservation?
Absolutely! Historic Hudson Valley members attend Blaze for free, but must make advance reservations. Not a member? CLICK HERE

38. Historic Hudson Valley. Is that a place or a state of mind?
Actually, it's a non-profit network of historic sites in Sleepy Hollow Country and the Great Estates region, including Van Cortlandt Manor. The others areWashington Irving's Sunnyside;Philipsburg Manor; the Union Church of Pocantico Hills; and Montgomery Place Historic Estate. The organization operates public tours at Kykuit, the Rockefeller estate, a historic site of the National Trust

39. I'm as impulsive as all get out. I need to buy tickets right now!
CLICK HERE to buy tickets. CLICK HEREto become a member. You can also call914-366-6900 to buy tickets ($2 per ticket surcharge added for phone orders).

40. I can't believe I accidentally bought tickets for the same night as the birthday party for my great aunt's third cousin's daughter. Can I exchange them for another session?
Sorry, all ticket sales are final. They are, however, transferable. So feel free to give them to a friend.

41. It's raining and I dress exclusively in suede. Can I get a refund or exchange my tickets?
Blaze takes place rain or shine. In extreme weather conditions, Historic Hudson Valley reserves the right to cancel the event and issue refunds. See ourWeather Policy for details.

42. Can I park my ride for free?
Yes, parking is included in the cost of your ticket.

43. My pets, Diana the tabby, Harvey the Westy, and Taco the guinea pig are all part of my family. Can they come to Blaze?
Sorry, but no. Blaze is for humans only.

44. I like souvenirs. Can I take a jack o'lantern home?
Actually, you can! Blaze experts will be carving art pumpkins on site that you can purchase in The Great Jack O' Lantern Blaze Shop. These will be limited edition, signed by the artists. Besides these incredible examples of carving artistry, the shop will be stuffed to the gills with Blaze-specific items including our brand new CD, Blaze: The Soundtrack, and new Blaze shirts, sweatshirts and caps. Local painter Suzanne Christine created four new Blaze oil paintings this season, which you will find finely reproduced on a made-in-the-USA Blaze cotton throw, new mugs, journals, notebooks and note cards, place mats, matted prints, puzzles, a whimsical glass wall clock, five beautiful table lamps, a lovely wooden tray, and fun pins. The shop will also offer a Blaze LED flashlight, Blaze pumpkin soap, pumpkin glass and metal ornaments, beautiful hand-blown glass pumpkins, glass platters, and plates, mini bowls, salt/pepper shakers, votive holders, over 50 Halloween book titles for young (and not so young!) readers, flashing necklaces, bracelets, earrings and rings, flashing headbands, huge gem rings, and of course, 800 pounds of delicious pumpkin pancake mixes! Need more fuel? How about Blaze chocolate pretzels, pumpkin butter, pumpkin mustard, pumpkin mandarin jam, poundcake and Jack O'Lantern cupcake and chocolate cookie mixes, and pumpkin turtle candies? Not enough stuff? We'll also have new Blaze postcards, Blaze notecards designed by local artists, and new Blaze magnets! Besides the main Blaze shop inside the event, you can stop by Shop 'N' Glow under the large hospitality tent, which has flashing LED swords and spinning Jack O'Lanterns, flashing necklaces, eyeglasses, earrings, bracelets and rings, plus sweatshirts. Remember, it can get cold in October!

45. Clearly Historic Hudson Valley couldn't have done this all on its own. Who else helped?
We graciously thank our generous sponsors, Blaze Founding SponsorEntergy, Blaze Title Sponsor KeyBank, and Blaze Media Sponsor WHUD 100.7 FM.

46. I'm starving. Will food be available at the event?
Absolutely. Café Blazé, operated byGeordane's of Irvington, will offer many tasty treats, including soup, veggie chili, muffins, pumpkin cookies, and cider.

47. My kids are starving, too, but is this event appropriate for my young child? How scary is it?
Blaze is suitable for a general audience. While there are some elements that are spooky, this is not a haunted tour, so there will be no goblins or ghouls jumping out to scare the wits out of the youngsters. Families with young children may want to choose an earlier time slot, when it's not so dark. If you're looking for a scare fest, check out Horseman's Hollow.

48. All this talk of food has got me ravenous for Pumpkin Pie. You wouldn't happen to have a killer recipe, would you?
You are going to flip for this recipe, courtesy of Lavada Nahon, Historic Hudson Valley food historian. It's based on a historic recipe for "Pompkin Pudding," which appeared in America's first cookbook, "American Cookery" by Amelia Simmons, in 1796.

49. That recipe sounds so good, I'm going to use it to make the largest pumpkin pie ever. What record do I have to top?
The largest pumpkin pie ever baked was in 2003 and weighed 418 pounds.

50. I'm on a green drink diet. Should I feel guilty after eating pumpkin pie?
Pumpkins are low in calories, fat, and sodium, and are high in fiber. They are good sources of Vitamin A, Vitamin B, potassium, protein, and iron.

51. Perfect. To make the biggest pumpkin pie, I'm going to need to grow the biggest pumpkin. Whose record do I have to top?
The largest pumpkin ever grown was 1,337 pounds. It was grown by Charles Houghton of New Boston, New Hampshire.

52. By the way, what's so historic about a Jack O' Lantern?
An ancient Irish legend holds that a man named Jack (or in some versions, "Stingy Jack"), too sinful to be admitted to heaven, was also denied entrance to hell. So he carved a turnip, lit it with a candle, and wandered the earth for a resting place, hence the name "Jack O' Lantern." There are many variations of this tale. However, it is believed that the first real meaning of "Jack O' Lantern," emerging in the 18th century, was "night watchman."

Source:

http://m.hudsonvalley.org/node/486

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