Holiday Gift Guide 2016: At Judie's Bungalow, A Beret for You and Only You

A beret with flower attached from Judie's Bungalow can brighten a winter day. Photos by Marie Driscoll.

HEADS UP: December has rolled around again and you are shaking in your shoes. What to get Aunt? And those other hard-to-shop-for-persons on your list? Never fear, the elves at The Wright Wreport are here! As is customary, until 24 Dec., we will introduce products, items and brands that we believe are worthy of consideration as a holiday gift(s). Happy, responsible shopping!

BY MARIE DRISCOLL

IN case you didn’t notice, flowers are in!

From Andy Warhol to Gucci embroidered and painted handbags and accessories, to the prints at Zara. They seem to be everywhere.

The display window at Judie's Bungalow provides a glimpse of some of its unique wares.

If hats are your thing, then a trip to Cold Spring, New York (about 60 miles from midtown New York City via NY-9A) is well worth it. Judie’s Bungalow, a house of handcrafted accessories has an assortment of one-of-a-kind berets with wool-felted flowers that are just so girly and incredible artisanal in this age of massive scale. Take note, this old-school boutique does not have a website, Facebook page or Twitter feed.

I fell in love and bought two; one for me and one for … me? So hard to gift this. At $40 each, they are a deal and bound to make your day brighter.

Who said a flower a day?

One-of-a-kind hats and berets are a specialty of Judie's Bungalow.

Judie’s Bungalow is at 90 Main St. Cold Spring, NY 10516. Telephone: 845-265-1032.

Holiday Gift Guide 2016: AliveCor Mobile ECG Can Be Great Comfort for Those With Troubled Hearts

The Alive Cor Mobile ECG is a pocket lifesaver. Photos from Alive Cor website.

HEADS UP: December has rolled around again and you are shaking in your shoes. What to get Aunt? And those other hard-to-shop-for-persons on your list? Never fear, the elves at The Wright Wreport are here! As is customary, until 24 Dec., we will introduce products, items and brands that we believe are worthy of consideration as a holiday gift(s). Happy, responsible shopping!

BY NEIL WOLFSON

I was somewhat overwhelmed by the many impressive gizmos and gadgets about to come onto the world market at the recent Pepcom Wine, Dine & Demo holiday technology show in New York City.

However, one device in particular resonated with me as a person living with cardiovascular issues. It's called the AliveCor Mobile ECG. This user-friendly tiny miracle provides an accurate electrocardiogram to your smartphone or tablet. Results can be quickly relayed to your cardiologist.

The lifesaving implications of this product are mind-boggling. It retails for around $100, though the device is 25 percent off online until 31. Dec. At checkout, use code, LASTCHANCE2016.





Visit http://www.alivecor.com to learn more about the AliveCor Mobile ECG.

Holiday Gift Guide 2016: Under Armour for Men in Blue as Well as You, You and You

The ColdGear® Reactor Hybrid Jacket is lightweight and warm. Photos from Under Armour website.

HEADS UP: December has rolled around again and you are shaking in your shoes. What to get Aunt? And those other hard-to-shop-for-persons on your list? Never fear, the elves at The Wright Wreport are here! As is customary, until 24 Dec., we will introduce products, items and brands that we believe are worthy of consideration as a holiday gift(s). Happy, responsible shopping!

By Marie Driscoll

THE early read is that this winter will be cold. To that end, help the guy in your life stay warm with some Under Armour.

Guys are reluctant to buy a puffer jacket for themselves, ergo, God created Eve. The UA ColdGear® Reactor Hybrid Jacket has UA storm technology that repels water and the ColdGear reactor intelligent insulation adapts to any activity for nonstop comfort and total versatility. For $184.99, the sniffles and sneezes can be kept at bay.

The ColdGear® Reactor Hybrid Jacket comes with a pouch for easy transport.

Wow! Smart, and it’s also purdy cool, ‘cause it packs easily into the left pocket. That means, it can easily fit into a gym bag or backpack. He will love it, it’s Under Armour! (http://www.undrarmr.co/2h8Ids3)

Hey, while you are shopping, get him a pair of gloves, too! Under Armour has 87 glove choices (and that doesn’t include color or size) OMG! There are gloves for every sport, so try to keep it simple. A good choice is the US ColdGear® Infrared Fleece Ski & Snowboard glove ($29.99).

The ColdGear® Infrared Fleece Ski & Snowboard glove doesn't have to come off if you need to tap on your device.

It packs a lot of punch, including a thermo-conductive coating on the inside that holds heat without adding bulk. It also has great functionality with Tech Touch print on the thumbs and fingers that allows the use of touchscreen devices with the gloves on. (http://www.undrarmr.co/2hWwj0Y)

I was inspired to recommend the gloves by the vision of a New York City police officer in the subway with a pair of Under Armours dangling from his back pocket.

One of New York's finest protects his hands with Under Armour. Photo by Marie Driscoll.

If they are good enough for our men in blue, they are good enough for your man, too!

Visit a store near you or http://www.underarmour.com to learn more about Under Armour.

Holiday Gift Guide 2016: When You Say, 'Alexa' - Even Above the Din of Music - Amazon Echo Dot Listens, and Handles It

The Amazon Echo Dot is an efficient little assistant. Image from Amazon.com.

HEADS UP: December has rolled around again and you are shaking in your shoes. What to get Aunt? And those other hard-to-shop-for-persons on your list? Never fear, the elves at The Wright Wreport are here! As is customary, until 24 Dec., we will introduce products, items and brands that we believe are worthy of consideration as a holiday gift(s). Happy, responsible shopping!

BY NIEL WOLFSON

ONE of the most interesting devices I demoed at the recent Pepcom Wine, Dine & Demo holiday technology show in New York City, was the second-generation of Amazon’s Echo, Echo Dot.

Part of the Alexa Voice Service, this miniature voice-activated concierge can accomplish numerous tasks from playing music on Spotify to dimming the lights in your home to requesting Uber rides.

It's currently on sale now for a paltry $40. "Alexa ..."

Visit http://www.amzn.to/2cEXzBk to learn more about Amazon Echo Dot.

Holiday Gift Guide 2016: Tappin' All Two of Your Left Feet Into Dance Classes

HEADS UP: December has rolled around again and you are shaking in your shoes. What to get Aunt? And those other hard-to-shop-for-persons on your list? Never fear, the elves at The Wright Wreport are here! As is customary, until 24 Dec., we will introduce products, items and brands that we believe are worthy of consideration as a holiday gift(s). Happy, responsible shopping!

BY TAMARA BECK

IT feels so intuitive. You step, thumping your toes rhythmically, and voila!, you're tapping.

In reality, however, tap dancing is a vigorous and strenuous physical activity that requires mastery, precision and training.

Most are not likely to pursue tap dance professionally, but there are lessons to help you gain some proficiency. A sort of interim fix can be found at a number of studios around New York City for enthusiasts who lack skills but want them. If you are not in New York, Google “Tap dance lessons near me” for classes.

The American Tap Dance Foundation champions the all-American artform with, among other things, the annual Tap City: The New York City Tap Festival. It is billed as the world’s pre-imminent tap dance festival, featuring performances, demos, awards and a treasure show. The foundation also offers classes for young and old. (http://www.atdf.org/)

The 92nd Street Y also offers a course of study for the would-be tap dancer. The selections blend Fred Astaire styling, Broadway tap and the freestyle rhythm popularized by Savion Glover. Classes range from the "Absolute Beginner" to “Older Dancer” to “Intermediate.” (http://www.92y.org/Uptown/Classes/Adults/Dance/Tap.aspx)

Happy feet!

Holiday Gift Guide 2016: Going Coach for an Iconic Handbag and/or Soon-to-Be Extinct Rexy Wares

The Coach Dinky bag (Western Rivets Crossbody 24) is a jewel in its crown. Photos from Coach.

HEADS UP: December has rolled around again and you are shaking in your shoes. What to get Aunt? And those other hard-to-shop-for-persons on your list? Never fear, the elves at The Wright Wreport are here! As is customary, until 24 Dec., we will introduce products, items and brands that we believe are worthy of consideration as a holiday gift(s). Happy, responsible shopping!

BY MARIE DRISCOLL

IF you are into Americana lux, among the best is Coach

The fresh approach of executive designer Stuart Vevers to U.S. standards is creating must-have new iconic handbags, accessories and even some ready-to-wear.

A girl just can't have enough Dinky bags. From tea rose appliqué, to calf hair – in a rainbow of colors and two sizes – a Dinky is the cherry-on-top of any outfit; the perfect grab-bag for an afternoon in the park or an evening at the opera.

The Rexy intarsia knit sweater is soft and shimmery.

First introduced in 1973, it is “the little bag that could” and is a longtime Coach favorite. It also features the original 1964 turnlock designed by Coach’s first creative director, Bonnie Cashin.

Ranging from $279 (down from $395) to $795, the Dinky is a piece of precious. The Western Rivets Dinky Crossbody 24 in glove-tanned leather and black copper/heather gray is adorable. ($419, down from $595)

The Rexy charm has certain crystal accents.

But hey, if Dinky isn't for you, consider something from the Rexy capsule collection. The recent pre-fall 2017 show was part of the 75th anniversary celebration of Coach and the first for Rexy.

Incidentally, if you are in New York City, visit the newly opened Coach House (685 Fifth Ave. at 54th Street). Designed by SV in partnership with William Sofield (Studio Sofield), it is three magnificent floors of all things Coach. It also houses a 12-foot sculpture of Rexy, designed entirely of Coach handbags!

The Empire State Building and Statue of Liberty have a place of prominence on the Rexy postcard.

Rexy is the brand’s new mascot and a friendly dinosaur. She appears on various items, including handbags, scarves, intarsia knit sweaters ($695) and even a leather postcard ($25, featuring the New York skyline and landmarks), as well as a Rexy charm ($55) that is adorned with Swarovski crystals.

Get 'em now, ‘cause when they’re gone, they’re gone!

Visit a Coach store near you or visit the following web pages to shop for the aforementioned Coach items:

http://www.bit.ly/2hHF5jX

http://www.coach.com/coach-sparkly-intarsia-rexy-sweater/87384.html?dwvar_color=TEA

http://www.cach.com/coach-new-york-city-postcard/87586.html?dwvar_color=L38

http://www.coach.com/coach-rexy-charm/56772.html?search=true&dwvar_color=GLD

ON THE TOWNS: Encore for The Great Gatsby Party; yasiin bey (nee Mos Def) Takes Several Bows Before He Takes His Leave; Film Society of London Center Parties Like It's 1991; in a Smashing Affair, New York City Takes on Sweden; Gelsey Kirkland Ballet Has Its 1st Crack at 'The Nutcracker' ...

Jules Minshin, Frank Sinatra and Gene Kelly in a scene from "On the Town." The film will be screened at the 25th Anniversary celebration of Walter Reade Theater at Lincoln Center. Archive photo.

CAN you believe it, the artist formerly known as Mos Def is really retiring from music? Thankfully, much other music continues at the Apollo Theater and other places, including Capitale. There the ‘20s roar back with The Great Gatsby Party 2.0.

Meanwhile, the Film Society of Lincoln Center celebrates a milestone with toasts, cheap tix and revisits “On The Town.” No doubt, the Gelsey Kirkland Ballet will be on point with its first production of “The Nutcracker” ...

1-7 December

LIFESTYLE. DANCING. MUSIC. FOOD. 9 p.m. 2 and 3 Dec. The Great Gatsby Party 2016. Back by popular demand, the party inspired by the decadence described in F. Scott Fitzgerald’s novel of the same name returns. The Roaring Twenties reimagined for two nights. Women in flapper dresses; men in top hats. Aerialists. Flowing Champagne.Capitale, 130 Bowery St. New York. http://www.bit.ly/2hbr8No

FILM. 2-22 Dec. Life is a Dream: The Films of Raul Ruiz. The Film Society of Lincoln Center presents Part 1 of it two-part retrospective of the great Chilean director's work. Includes his feature debut, "Three Sad Tigers," works from the 1970s and 1980s, including "The Hypothesis of the Stolen Painting, as well as from the '90s, including "Three Lives and Only One Death." Walter Reade Theater, 165 W. 65th St. New York. http://www.filmlinc.org/series/life-is-a-dream-the-films-of-raul-ruiz-part-1/

MUSIC. THEATER. 8 p.m. 5 Dec. A Man of No ImportanceIn concert. The second installment of the Anne L. Bernstein Concert Series. From the Terrence McNally play about an Irish-Catholic bus driver with a secret who is empowered by the words of Oscar Wilde. Lyrics by Lynn Ahrens. Music by Stephen Flaherty. Directed by Jack Cummings III. Irene Diamond Stage at the Pershing Square Signature Center. New York. http://www.transportgroup.org/man-no-importance-concert

TELEVISION. 8 p.m. 5 Dec. Showtime at the Apollo. The two-hour program hosted by Steve Harvey airs on FOX. It is billed as a "reimagining of a classic talent showcase series" and will feature elements of the Apollo's famed Amateur Night competition. Special guests.

8-14 December

FILM. 7p.m., 9:30 p.m. 8 Dec. 25th Anniversary of the Walter Reade Theater. The Film Society of Lincoln Center celebrates the December 1991 opening of its screening venue with two screenings that represent the society's mission. "On the Town," (7p.m.) from Stanley Donen and Gene Kelly, was the very first film screened at Walter Reade. John Casssavetes' "Shadows" (9:30 p.m.) has the distinction of being the director's first film as well as being a part of Walter Reade's inaugural series, "Great Beginnings: First Films by Great Directors." The free screenings will be preceded by a Prosecco toast and introductions. Also a part of the celebration are 1991 ticket prices for a couple of film festivals. Walter Reade Theater, 165 W. 65th St. New York. http://www.filmlinc.org/series/25th-anniversary-walter-reade-theater/

DANCE. 8-18 Dec. The Nutcracker. The Gelsey Kirkland Ballet's production of the holiday classic features original choreography by co-artistic director Michael Chernov. The 70-member ensemble of thos GKB debut production will be comprised of graduates and trainees of the Gelsey Kirkland Academy of Classical Ballet.GK Arts Center, 29 Jay St. Brooklyn, NY. http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/2666504

"The First Noel: A Musical" returns to the Apollo Theater for a second year. Photo courtesy of the Classical Theatre of Harlem.

THEATER. DANCE. 10-18 Dec. The First Noel: A Musical. The Apollo Theater presents the Classical Theatre of Harlem production, which tells the story of three generations of a Harlem family and how they deal with tragedy. Directed by Steve H. Broadnax III. Original book, music and lyrics by Lelund Durond Thompson and Jason Michael Webb. Apollo Theater, 253 W. 125 St. New York. http://www.apollotheater.org/firstnoel/

LIFESTYLE. SPORTS. 6 p.m. 11 Dec. NYC vs SWE. The New York City takes on Sweden in a Holiday Ping Pong Party Tournament. It is co-presented by Marcus Samuelsson, the owner of Streetbird. Proceeds from the tournament go to Mission North, a non profit dedicated to making it possible for youth in underserved areas to participate in organized sports. Streetbird, 2149 Frederick Douglas Blvd. New York. http:// www.keyflow.com/events/35936/new-york/socialight-entertainment/nyc-x-swe

ART. CULTURE. 6:30 p.m. 13 Dec. Tibet House US 30th Anniversary Dinner Party and Benefit Auction. Fifteen one-of-a-kind items to be auctioned by Christie’s auctioneer, Jennifer Wright. Honorary chair committee includes Philip Glass, Martin Scorsese, Uma Thurman and Jann Wenner. Tibet House US, 22 W. 15th St. New York. http:// www.bit.ly/2g2fowS

15-21 December

yasiin bey says goodbye to America with four concerts with friends. Photo from yasiin bey Facebook page.

MUSIC. 8 p.m., 8:30 p.m. 21 and 22 Dec.; 31 Dec.-2 Jan. 2017. yasiin bey & friends. The artist formerly known as Mos Def will perform his last four concerts in the United States before his retirement from the music business. He is expected to perform songs from different albums at each concert and welcome special guests. Following these U.S. performances, he will journey to Africa to focus on his arts, culture and lifestyle collective, A Country called Earth (ACCE). Among his new pursuits is to be painting, some of which will be displayed anonymously at both the Apollo Theater and The Kennedy Center. Apollo Theater, 253 W. 125 St., New York. The Kennedy Center, 2700 F St., NW, on the bank of the Potomac River. Washington, D.C.
http://www.apollotheater.org/event/yasiin-bey/
http:// www.kennedy-center.org/calendar/event/MRHFN

22 December and beyond

Jalal Maghout's "Suleima" is an animation documentary in which one Syrian woman speaks for many. It will be screened on 15 Jan 2017 and is part of the Whitney's "Dreamlands: Immersive Cinema and Art, 1905–2016" exhibit. Image courtesy of Whitney Museum of American Art.

ART. EXTENDED through 9 Jan 2017. Carmen Herrera: Lines of Sight. Encompasses the 30-year period between 1948 and 1978 when the abstract artist was honing her style. The first NYC museum exhibit of her oeuvre in nearly 20 years, it features three-dimensional treatments, works on paper and paintings. Whitney Museum of American Art, 99 Gansevoort. New York. The exhibit moves to the Wexner Center for the Arts in Columbus Ohio on 4 Feb. (through 16 April). http://www.bit.ly/2ciWyfl

ART. Through 5 Feb. 2017. Dreamlands: Immersive Cinema and Art, 1905–2016. The title takes its name from science fiction writer H.P. Lovecraft’s alternate fictional dimension. It features the work of artists spanning a century, illustrating the numerous techniques they have used to deconstruct conventional modes of cinema to re-imagine the moving image. Includes a film series. Whitney Museum of American Art, 99 Gansevoort. New York. http://www.bit.ly/2e5XMgK