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Norma's Weekly Snapshot 
Hot summer days bring out the wanderlust in New Yorkers. Take a drive or hop on a train and head to the lush countryside or picturesque beaches to truly disconnect from the fast-paced city life. Charming inns and seaside resorts await you for a real summer retreat.
This week's Special Feature highlights some of my top out of state summer escapes.
Visit past Weekly Snapshots for all of my Summer Features:
Norma Knows New York City
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Send to other savvy New Yorkers and hip visitors, so they can
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 General Events... 
July 21 Books Beneath the Bridge
Free summer literary series at The Powerhouse Arena in Brooklyn. This Monday features My Salinger Year by Joanna Rakoff and The Vacationers by Emma Straub.
July 22 Stargazing on the High Line Visit the High Line Tuesdays through October to gaze at the stars, planets, and moon through high-powered telescopes and chat with the experts about the sights you see.
July 24 Jazz Age Garden Parties Purchase tickets for a 1920s era Garden Party at the New York Botanical Garden. Listen to the music of Michael Arenella and His Dreamland Orchestra, learn how to dance the Charleston under the stars, and enjoy cocktails... all with the NYBG as your backdrop. Also August 21st.
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Cultural Pursuits... OPENING & CLOSING SOON:  July 23 to 26 Limited Runs Marilyn Monroe Photographs
Limited Runs is hosting a traveling exhibition of rare, never before published Marilyn Monroe photographs. The show recently launched in LA and will travel to San Francisco before wrapping up here in NYC this summer at SUMO Contemporary Art Gallery (37 Walker Street). The show includes photographs by Thomas "Doc" Kaminski, Allan "Whitey" Snyder, Milton Greene, Lani Carlson, and Mischa Pelz.
July 26 The Paris of Toulouse-Lautrec
Prints and posters by this renowned artist will be on display through March 22nd, 2015 at MoMA. Through July 31 Burning Bright... Tiger, tiger A captivating group exhibition of renowned artists at the Stux Gallery (24 West 57th Street). ONGOING EXHIBITS:  Asia Society (725 Park Avenue) Himalayan StructuresThe four sculptures, on view until August 3rd, come from the Mr. and Mrs. John D. Rockefeller 3rd Collection.
The Guggenheim Museum (1071 Fifth Avenue) Italian Futurism, 1909-1944: Reconstructing the Universe A truly amazing exhibit that I was fortunate to view during its installation - Italian futurism from its inception to its demise in World War II. Through September 1st.
The International Center of Photography (1133 Avenue of the Americas) Caio Reisewitz The ICP is exhibiting large scale, colorful photographs by Caio Reiswitz, Brazil's leading contemporary photographer. Through September 7th. The Metropolitan Museum of Art (1000 5th Avenue) An exquisite exhibition showcasing James' sculptural and scientific approach to the creation of his ball gowns. Through August 10th.
Garry Winogrand Retrospective
Gary Winogrand, renowned NYC street photographer, will exhibit over 175 of his iconic images and unseen prints at The Met. This is his first exhibit in twenty five years. Through September 21st.
 The Museum of Art and Design (2 Columbus Circle) Multiple Exposures: Jewelry and Photography
The exhibit at The Museum of Art and Design showcases how contemporary jewelry artists transform images in this digital age. Through September 14th. NYC MakersWhile at MAD, visit this sweeping cross section of productions invented by artists living in NYC. Through October 12th. The Museum of Modern Art (11 West 53rd Street) Lygia Clark: The Abandonment of Art, 1948-1988 Over 300 of her drawings, paintings and sculptures from the 1940s through the 1990s on display at MoMA through August 24th. Conceptions of Space  Also at MoMA, Twenty projects by contemporary artists. Through October 19th.
Le Corbusier: An Atlas of Modern Landscapes
Le Corbusier, a celebrated artist of three dimensions... a breathtaking exhibit through September 23rd.
The New York Botanical Garden
(2900 Southern Boulevard, The Bronx)
Great American Gardens and The Women Who Designed Them
Visit this exquisite exhibit through September 7th.
New-York Historical Society
(170 Central Park West)
Madeline in New York: The Art of Ludwig Bemelmans
Madeline in New York is open with more than 90 original artworks from creator Ludwig Bemelmans honoring the 75th anniversary of this beloved school girl. An exhibit for all ages! Bemelmans Bar, one of my favorite bars in the city, was named in honor of Madeline's amazing illustrator. Through October 19th.  Petzel Gallery (456 W 18th Street) A Machinery for LivingA contemporary art group exhibit through August 8th. Robin Rice Gallery (325 West 11th Street) Summertime SalonA photographic exhibit Robin Rice herself curates to exemplify the 56 exhibited artists' strengths and aesthetics. Through September 7th. The Rubin Museum of Art (150 West 17th Street) Bodies in Balance: The Art of Tibetan Medicine The Rubin Museum, which features collections of art from the Himalayas, is currently showcasing this fascinating exhibit on Tibetan healing. Through September 8th.
The Skyscraper Museum (39 Battery Place) Times Square, 1984
The exhibit captures the decisive moment and transformation of the urban renewal of Times Square... now known as the crossroads of the world. Through January 2015.The Whitney Museum (945 Madison Avenue)
The Whitney presents this exhibit by the most controversial artist of the post war period. This is his first major museum presentation in NYC. Through October 19th. Also visit Rockefeller Center for Koons' Split-Rocker plant, soaring 37 feet above the public square... the half-pony, half-dinosaur sculpture is grown from 50,000 flowering plants.
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Curtain Up...
MUSIC & DANCE:
 Live concerts at the Prospect Park Bandshell all summer long.
Head to Madison Square Park for free live music through August 6th. Free music through August 7th in Union Square. A summer staple... visit PS1 (22-25 Jackson Avenue, Long Island City) Saturdays through September 6th for live experimental music, surrounded by art.
July 19 NY Only: A Celebration of Mary Rodgers
At the Paley Center (25 West 52nd Street), this is part of the New York Musical Theatre Festival. The Paley Center pays tribute to Broadway composer Mary Rodgers.
July 20 MoMA's Summer GardenThe perfect respite... listen to jazz and classical music in the museum's exquisite sculpture garden. Sundays through July 27th. 
3 weeks of dance, music, and concerts in Lincoln Center... and it's all free! Through August 10th.
July 20 Aspects of Andrew: Lloyd Webber Tickets will go fast along with those to hear Patti Lupone (starting on July 21st) at 54 Below (254 West 54th Street).
July 20 A Memorial Concert for Pete and Toshi Seeger
Lincoln Center Out of Doors at Damrosch Park Bandshell; Judy Collins will be one of the featured performers.
July 22 Shakespeare in the Park: King Lear
It's worth standing in line at The Delacorte Theater (81 Central Park West) for the free performances of Shakespeare's classic tale, starring A nnette Bening and John Lithgow!
Broadway's biggest hits are sung by many top performers on Thursdays. July 25 & 26 Breath of the WorldOutdoor festival of 80 musicians that will take up positions across Lincoln Center for a world orchestral premier without a conductor. Listeners are also free to move around, discovering key listening points of the production.
The festival provides a platform to introduce new shows and new perspective into the world of musical theater. Visit the website for tickets.  As a part of the Lincoln Center Festival, adventurous performances at Lincoln Center from one of the world's most esteemed ballet production companies. Three full-length ballets will be performed with intense drama and emotion. This is our city's first opportunity to experience the combined talents of the Bolshoi Ballet along with opera and a symphonic orchestral accompaniment. Performances to wow and delight through August 16th... music, dance, art.
FILM & THEATER:
Through July 19 Encores!
Off Broadway musicals at NY City Center (131 West 55th Street) led by the director of the popular Broadway show, Violet. Check the website for the schedule of this new musical theater series.
July 22 Chaplin Shorts: Payday / Sunnyside / The Idle Class
At Symphony Space's Leonard Nimoy Thalia Theater (2537 Broadway), three hours of hilarious short films by the legendary Charlie Chaplin.
Beautiful: The Carole King Musical
If you enjoyed Jersey Boys as much as I did, you'll be equally entertained watching this musical that follows the legendary songwriter from her early days as a Brooklyn teenager to those well-known hits as a top recording artist. Through November 16th at the Stephen Sondheim Theatre (124 West 43rd Street). The show took home 2 Tonys - Best Sound Design and Jessie Mueller won for Best Performance by an Actress in a Leading Role.
At the Barrow Street Theater (27 Barrow Street) through August 31st. An outrageous comedy about the price of fame as an LA actor goes to work in Barbra Streisand's basement. You'll soon see why this is the longest running off-Broadway comedy. I experienced the most amazing New York evening when I saw Cabaret at Studio 54 (254 West 54th Street). Both Alan Cumming and Michelle Williams are show-stoppers, and the Kit-Cat band is superb! A magnificent revival, extended through the end of the year. 
Here Lies LoveThis musical retraces the journey of Filipina First Lady Imelda Marcos from her rise to power to her descent into infamy. The show at The Public Theater (425 Lafayette Street) blends the passion of politics with heart-pounding dance beats. Through September 6th.
If/Then The Musical
A favorite performer of mine, Idina Menzel of Wicked, stars in this musical about a woman that returns to life in NYC discovering endless possibilities where chance and choice collide. At the Richard Rodgers Theatre (226 West 46th Street). Through October 12th.
Of Mice and Men A limited engagement of the revived literary Steinbeck classic. Actors James Franco, Chris O'Dowd, and Leighton Meester make their Broadway debuts in this emotional American Depression-era tale. At the Longacre Theater (220 West 48th Street) through July 27th.
Visit previous snapshots for more favorites in theater.
ON THE RADAR:
 July 25 Mostly Mozart Classical music concerts through August 23rd. Order your tickets now. July 28 Central Park SummerStage: John LeguizamoSee this funny man for free in Central Park. Check the website for more shows throughout the summer. July 30 to August 4 Long Beach International Film FestivalCelebrating the art of storytelling through cinema. August 29 & 30 Paulo SzotOne of my favorite singers will perform at 54 Below (254 West 54th Street) in August. Tickets go fast, so if you're as captivated by this Brazilian opera star as I am, I suggest you buy your tickets now. I hope he'll sing a few tunes from his starring performance in South Pacific!
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For the Foodie... 
Mondays in July Taste of the Terminal
Visit Vanderbilt Hall at Grand Central Terminal for free tastings from selected shops and restaurants, plus special offers and live music.
July 21 to August 15 Summer Restaurant Week
It's that time again; here are my picks in categories... many of these can be pricey, but Restaurant Week helps make it more affordable!
CLIENT ENTERTAINING:
 | | 21 Club |
21 Club
21 West 52nd Street (5th & 6th Avenues)
Midtown West
American Cuisine
12 East 12th Street (5th Avenue & University Place)
Greenwich Village
New American Cuisine
DATE NIGHT:
Harlow
111 East 56th Street (Lexington & Park Avenues)
Midtown East
Seafood
Perry Street
176 Perry Street (West & Washington Streets)
West Village
French Cuisine
FINE DINING:
 | | Caravaggio |
Caravaggio
23 East 74th Street (5th & Madison Avenues)
Upper East Side
Italian Cuisine
Nougatine
1 Central Park West (at 59th Street)
Upper West Side
French Cuisine
THEATER DISTRICT DINING:
 | | Butter |
Butter
70 West 54th Street (5th & 6th Avenues)
Midtown West
New American Cuisine
Esca
402 West 43rd Street (9th & 10th Avenues)
Midtown West
Italian Cuisine
Italian Cuisine
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SPECIAL FEATURE... Escapes Beyond New York 
Connecticut Escape: The Mayflower GraceWashington, CT Nestled in the idyllic town of Washington, CT, this Relais & Châteaux 5-star resort offers five star accommodations and gourmet dining overlooking the Shakespeare Garden. Partake in their array of exceptional spa treatments, relax in their library, swim in their indoor or outdoor pool, or stroll through the Steep Rock Nature Preserve.
Rhode Island Retreat: The Ocean House
Westerley, RI
An iconic New England seaside resort. The Ocean House is a majestic beachfront Victorian hotel in Watch Hill reminiscent of the Gatsby era, serving world class amenities. Check out their resort calendar for what's going on, from yoga to "Farm & Vine" classes and live music.
Visit The Berkshires: Wheatleigh
Lenox, MA
Surrounded by 22 exquisite acres overlooking the Berkshire Mountains, Wheatleigh is a 2 and ½ hour drive from NYC. No wonder the grounds are breathtaking... their designer, Federick Law Olmstead, was the designer of Central Park! Built in 1893 as an Italian villa, Wheatleigh combines antique architecture with original museum contemporary art. Besides the many antique, art and specialty shops in town, hiking, biking, tennis and in-room spa services are offered at this boutique hotel.
Nantucket: The White Elephant
Nantucket, MA
One of my favorite retreats, Nantucket offers an upscale island atmosphere. Unique boutiques, fine dining, and outdoor activities. The White Elephant is a luxury destination all its own, dating back to the 1920s... with a spectacular spa, exquisite dining, and a private beach on the harbor. You don't even have to leave the resort... they even offer complimentary afternoon port & cheese.
Cape Cod: Chatham Bars Inn
Chatham, Cape Cod
Chatham Bars Inn offers beachfront luxury in a cottage feel. Indulge in their spa, sunbathe on their private beach, swim in their heated pool, or enjoy the many local activities from whale watching to canoeing. I have visited many times and am always relaxed when I leave.
Martha's Vineyard: Harbor View Hotel
Edgartown, MA
I enjoy visiting Martha's Vineyard because it offers a laid back, friendly atmosphere which makes you feel like you're at home in this quaint spot. Nearby golf, boating, sailing, theater, multiple dining venues, beaching, fishing, outdoor pool and much more will keep you relaxed and rejuvenated.
Kennebunkport, Maine Getaways: The Tides Beach Club
It's no surprise why the Bush's built their compound in this town... it's an upscale feel in a laid back town. The Tides Hotel is my favorite Maine home-away-from-home. Take a mixology class, a paddleboard lesson, or just relax on the beach. At the end of the day, eat s'mores by the nightly bonfire. 
Hidden Pond
Sister property to The Tides Beach Club, it is a contrast and equally exceptional. Relax, rejuvenate, and restore in one of their cottages surrounded by nature.
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| Norma Knows New York City/ East 76th Street / New York, New York 10021 |
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