Volume 20, Number 39 | The Newspaper of Lower Manhattan | February 9 – 15, 2011
Far beyond flowers and candy
Things to do with your love, besides the thing you’re thinking of
COMPILED BY SCOTT STIFFLER
If you’re a true romantic, and lucky enough to be in love, every day is Valentine’s Day — so good for you. But if you’re not the type to wear your heart on your sleeve by gifting that significant other with grand and frequent gestures, pulling out all the stops for this annual articulation of love is a no-brainer.
This year, in addition to lavishing them with the usual flowers and candy, think about employing some of these unique options. In the end, the effort you take just might equal the love you make. As for our single readers: Suck it up and let your coupled friends have their day in the sun — and remember, there’s no shame in sending flowers to yourself. We all deserve love!
FREE KETTLEBELL KICKBOXING
What’s hotter than a couple that can kick ass? Not much. But before you channel the bad mojo of your relationship issues into swift acts of vigilante justice, take a deep breath and consider a truly calming, centered way to express your anger and sharpen your skills. Anderson’s Martial Arts has your back. Their Valentine’s Week Fitness special kicks off on February 14th. Couples can sign up for their free private training or join a class solo during through February 20. On Valentine’s Day, they’re offering a free two-hour Self Defense Seminar for women. From 7-8pm, Dasha Libin debuts her new fusion fitness class: Kettlebell Kickboxing. The workout combines the combative moves and quickness of mixed martial arts and with the strength and muscle training that comes with Russian kettlebells. After the class, Libin will be on hand to answer questions and advise you on matters of personal fitness goals. At Anderson’s Martial Arts & Fitness Center (394 Broadway, at Canal. Third floor). To sign up, call 212-766-6622 or email webinfo@andersonsmartialarts.com. Visit andersonsmartialarts.com.
FREE TANGO LESSONS & DANCING
Return those tickets to Buenos Aires and save yourself a trip to the airport. Arts World Financial Center has a better way to get a consensual pat-down — courtesy of free tango lessons and dancing the night away to the sounds of the Hector Del Curto Tango Orchestra at the Winter Garden. The 10-musician ensemble will transform the glass-vaulted atrium into a grand dancing ballroom. From 7pm to 9pm, couples will fuse at the hip to the jazzy, festive rhythms inspired by the traditional Argentinean style. A group instructor will provide tango lessons from 6pm to 7pm for those looking to brush up on their footwork. FREE. Mon., Feb. 14. At the World Financial Center Winter Garden (220 Vesey St.). For info, call 212-945-0505 or visit artsworldfinancialcenter.com. Also visit hectordelcurto.com. Got plans for the evening? Get a little afternoon delight with “The Winter Garden Milonga: Free Lunchtime Tango Performances and Lessons” — from 12-2pm on Feb. 14 (same address and contact info as the evening event).
LOVE IN THE PARLORS: A VALENTINE IN CONCERT
The Merchant’s House Museum — NYC’s only family home preserved intact from the mid-19th-century — offers an authentic frozen-in-time glimpse into the customs, morals and mindset of old New York. Their “Love in the Parlors” Valentine’s Day concert recreates the 19th-century tradition of “salon music” with vocal chamber works performed in an intimate parlor setting. The compositions, which address themes of love in all of its triumphs and failings, were chosen from repertoire written between 1801-1900. The Bond Street Euterpean Singing Society (MHM’s arts group in residence since 2004) provides the vocal talent. Mon., Feb.14, at 7pm (snow date Thurs., Feb. 17). At the Merchant’s House Museum (29 E. Fourth St. btw. Lafayette & Bowery). Tickets are $25 ($20 for students/seniors, $15 for MHM members). Reservations required. Call 212-777-1089 or visit merchantshouse.org/events.
Stretch out the warm and fuzzy spirit of Valentine’s Day for the entire month by attending “19th-Century Valentines: Confections of Affection.” On view through February 28, the exhibit features examples of ornate and lace handmade paper Valentine cards from the Museum’s collection as well as early manufactured cards. MHM is open Thurs. through Mon., 12-5pm.
Admission is $10 ($5 for seniors/students).
FUNDRAISER AT THE COWGIRL SEAHORSE RESTAURANT
Just say “Cowgirl Seahorse Restaurant,” and you’re already having a good time. So let those good times roll for a good cause — when you attend their Valentine’s Day Fundraiser to benefit the Avon Breast Cancer Foundation. $50 (half of which goes to the Foundation) gets you a 6-course prix fixe dinner. On the menu: artichoke heart fritters, creamy fish chowder, mango-goat cheese salad, surf & turf, a glass of champagne, mini heart-shaped strawberry shortcake and a special gourmet cupcake — plus music from The Crusty Gentlemen. At the Cowgirl Seahorse Restaurant (259 Front St., corner of Front & Dover). For reservations, call 212-608-7873.
DINNER AT THE BAILEY
If you still haven’t made dinner reservations for February 14, know that The Bailey Pub & Brasserie has already put the finishing touches on their plan for the ultimate Valentine’s Day dinner. It’s a $55 pre-fix 3-course meal including choice of appetizer, entrée and dessert. Menu items include Seared Diver Scallops, Pan Seared Wild Striped Bass and Tahitian Vanilla Panna Cotta. There featured cocktail for the evening: The Champagne Charlie — a rich mixture of Stoli Raspberry, Champagne and Pureed Raspberry. The Bailey Pub & Brasserie (52 William St., 1 block North of Wall St.). For reservations, call 212-859-2200. Visit www.thebaileynyc.com.
