Editor’s Note: All Is Bright

Photo by Karen Haberberg.

Our November/December issue is always my favorite of the year because it showcases the best of every aspect of the holiday season here in our beautiful city: From giving back to gift giving, plus plenty of fun. For starters, we’re excited to once again be your go-to source for all the best local holiday happenings—from the coolest skating rinks to the most tricked out trees! Don’t miss our Holiday Fun Guide.

In addition to being a season of merriment, it’s also a time of a year when New Yorkers display the depths of their kindness. That special stretch from Thanksgiving through New Year’s Eve is all about the spirit of giving—to that end, we have a diverse primer on local charitable organizations worthy of time, funds, and awareness, as well as a brief guide to organizations doing excellent work on a national scale for causes related to current events (like natural disaster relief and gun violence prevention). In honor of November being National Adoption Month, we’re also shining a light on NYC’s own Help Us Adopt as they raise a glass to 10 years.

If you’re looking for a mix of charity and a lesson on how to make the most of the New York City’s seasonal offerings, turn to our cover feature on “Top Chef” star Padma Lakshmi. Not only does Lakshmi take joy from celebrating the season (think the perfect turkey-cooking method, epic gingerbread houses, and plenty of ice skating and visits to Rockefeller Center) with her young daughter, but she’s also fiercely passionate about women’s health and civil rights issues. Oh, and she has plenty of juicy tidbits to share about the upcoming 15th season of “Top Chef” as well.

Finally, it wouldn’t be a holiday publication without a swoon-worthy Gift Guide! We are pleased to present our largest Gift Guide ever. From pregnancy to pets to parents and kids of all ages, we’ve got you covered. And once you’ve made your list and checked it twice, turn to our super-easy wrapping paper DIY.

Happy Holidays,
Mia Weber
Executive Editor, [email protected]

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Young Actors at Strasberg

<p>Young Actors at Strasberg offers a comprehensive array of acting programs for students in grades 2 – 12. Classes provide kids and teens with a foundation in Lee Strasberg's Method Acting and the tools to succeed in the professional industry – all while maintaining a fun and playful environment. Programs are tailored to encompass students at all levels, from those just beginning their acting journey to Broadway veterans and professional child actors. Young Actors at Strasberg alumni include Lady Gaga, Sophia Lillis, Angelina Jolie, Chris Evans, Scarlett Johansson and Rosario Dawson!</p> <p>Young Actors Programs are available online and in-person at our New York Campus, located in Union Square. Saturday, After-School and Online classes are offered during the traditional school year (Fall, Winter, and Spring) and Monday through Friday day camps and intensives are held in July and August.</p> <p><strong>About The Lee Strasberg Theatre & Film Institute:</strong></p> <p>Founded in 1969 by Lee and Anna Strasberg, The Lee Strasberg Theatre & Film Institute is the only school that teaches Lee Strasberg's work in its complete and authentic form. The Institute's goal is to provide students with a craft that will help them create a reality and respond truthfully in imaginary circumstances, regardless of the style or form of material being used. LSTFI is proud to have award-winning alumni from around the world working as writers, directors, and actors in all mediums.</p>

Frost Valley YMCA Camps

<p>Frost Valley YMCA offers traditional overnight summer camp, teen and pre-teen adventure trips, horse camps, and an adventure survival camp. Children and teens grow in a safe and engaging environment, spending their first nights away from home, gaining skills as young leaders, and bonding with new friends on mountain hikes, swimming and boating in Lake Cole, ziplining, sleeping beneath the starry Catskill sky, and more. Frost Valley offers 1- and 2-week programs from July to August for grades 2-10. Attend an open house or schedule a tour.</p>

LeapUp Learning

<p><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;" data-sheets-value="{" data-sheets-userformat="{">At our Mandarin Chinese Immersion Day Camp we will take your kids on an exciting, imaginative journey to famous Chinese cities. History, geography, architecture, unique customs and traditions, food and more will be introduced to kids in an interactive, fun and immersive language environment. Age appropriate activities such as games, storytelling, art projects, music and theater, sports and cooking as well as special demonstrations or performances.</span></p>