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Driver in Staten Island Crash that Injured Two Cops Found Drunk with Heroin and Rum in Car: NYPD Reports
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. — Authorities allege that a 57-year-old man was drunk and caught with heroin and alcohol in his car after fleeing the scene of a crash that injured two NYPD officers in Grant City last week.
One officer suffered pain in his legs when he was pinned against the outside of a patrol car and a second officer sustained a minor concussion while seated inside the same police vehicle when it was struck on the night of Feb. 7 on South Railroad and Hamden avenues, according to the criminal complaint.
Minutes after the crash and about two miles away, Tino Zaldivar of the 1600 block of Richmond Road in Dongan Hills, was apprehended while driving a white, 2024 Jeep Compass at North Railroad and Mosel avenues in Grasmere, police said.
Zaldivar allegedly had on his person two plastic zipper bags containing heroin in the form of a tan powder. While searching the Jeep, officers allege they found two bottles of rum on the front passenger floor of the vehicle; one of the bottles was open and half full while the other was empty.
“The defendant operated said white Jeep while intoxicated by alcohol, in that informant observed the defendant exhibit indications of intoxicat[ion] including but not limited to, a strong odor of alcoholic beverage on the defendant’s breath and bloodshot eyes,” the complaint alleges.
The crash occurred at about 9:50 p.m. on that Wednesday when the marked patrol car was parked with one of the officers behind the wheel. A second officer had stepped out of the police car when the Jeep sideswiped the NYPD vehicle, the complaint alleges.
The left and front sides of the Jeep struck that officer’s legs and twisted, dented and tore both passenger doors on the patrol car, according to the complaint.
Zaldivar allegedly drove away in the Jeep, which was dinged with dents, scratches and black marks on the left and front sides. The defendant did not exchange any information about his identification or insurance and failed to retrieve the front license plate that fell off the Jeep, the complaint alleges.
When police located the suspect, the Jeep’s back license plate matched the front plate found at the scene, according to the complaint.
Police said that both officers were taken to an area hospital after the crash.
Zaldivar has been charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance, leaving the scene of an accident, reckless endangerment of property, driving while intoxicated, driving while ability impaired by the consumption of alcohol and leaving the scene of an accident.
He has pleaded not guilty to all charges and is due back in Criminal Court on April 3.
Online court records do not list any information about the defendant’s bail status or his defense attorney.
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Embrace the Fun Side of Wine: There’s No Need to Fear the Sommelier!
Drinking wine is supposed to be fun, and sommelier Marsha Wright couldn’t agree more.
“A lot of people think of sommeliers as stuffy, with the white cloth draped over their arm, trying to upsell you a $1,000 bottle of wine,” Wright said. “That’s not what it’s about. We like to have conversations, find out what you like. I make it fun.”
Wright is the corporate lead sommelier with DineAmic Hospitality, a group that currently has 14 restaurants in the city and suburbs. She works with their Greek brands — Violí in Oak Brook and Lyra in Chicago’s Fulton Market.
She said the job of a sommelier has evolved over the years. There’s a lot more to it than just selling wine on the restaurant floor to guests.
“Now it’s wine buying, it’s education, it’s meeting with my winemakers, taking trips, doing research, working with the culinary team,” she said. “That’s what I love about it.”
Her work with DineAmic involves creating and updating the wine list, making specials, education and more. She holds monthly food and wine tastings with the staff so they can pass informed recommendations along to the guests.
“I love sharing knowledge, especially with the staff since they’re the ones on the front lines,” she said. “When our staff tells someone that this wine pairs well with this food, they’re not just saying it, it’s because they’ve actually tasted it.”
She says her educational approach with staff and guests is to keep it basic.
“Just break it down so the guest can understand it with words like bright, acidic, minerality, fresh, lively,” she said. “You don’t have to say, ‘Oh, it has phenolic acidity to it.’ No one knows what that means.”
Wine dinners are one of her favorite ways to educate guests in a way that they’ll enjoy.
“They’re a great opportunity to taste, explore, kind of expand your palate. And you can introduce someone to thinking of food and wine together,” she said.
She works with the chef to plan the events, and they taste the wines together to craft the menu. Violí recently held their second wine dinner, which featured Caymus wines.
“It’s a collaborative effort, chef and ‘somm,’” Wright said. “Most places I’ve been, that isn’t normally what happens. But it’s food and wine, so let’s taste them together.”
She said they plan to make the wine dinners a fixture, with the next one scheduled for May with a rosé focus.
Wright isn’t just trying to change people’s perceptions about what a sommelier does, but also who can be one.
Recent research shows that less than a third of sommeliers identify as women. Only 11% of sommeliers are Black, which makes her a subset of a subset.
“I go to tastings with other ‘somms’ and it would all be men, and I’m usually the only African American in the room,” she said. “I started doing the research and the (representation) numbers were just frightening. There’s not a lot of us in what I do, or winemakers or CEOs at any of the companies.”
Wright said she hopes her example will help others realize that it’s a great job for anyone with a passion for wine.
“I think what a lot of it is is fear, because it is an industry dominated by white males and women can feel intimidated by that, just like any industry,” she said.
Wright got started in wine by, well, drinking it. She was working in accounting and finance about 25 years ago when she started reading a bunch of books and studying about what was in the glass she so frequently found in her hand.
“I realized, hey, I think I really like this,” she said.
She fully submerged herself in learning about wine and started taking classes. Before long she cashed in her 401(k) and jumped into wine full-time.
Wright started in retail at WineStyles in Naperville, quickly moving up to being in charge of wine buying for the store. From there she worked in other retail shops, including Binny’s for a time, before making the move to hospitality.
It was working in restaurants where she found her niche.
“I formulated the connection of food and wine and marrying them together to take the guests on a culinary journey and creating the most extraordinary experience,” she said. “Drinking wine is fun, talking about wine is fun, so learning about it should be too.”
Princess Margaret’s Decadent Lifestyle vs Gregg Wallace’s Joyless Routine: The Noon Vodka Factor
The royal’s life of long baths and four-course lunches is a dream compared with Wallace’s 5am wake-up and hours alone playing strategy games
Name: Princess Margaret.
Age: Born 94 years ago, she died in 2002 at the age of 71.
Appearance: Lifestyle kween 4eva.
Is this the same Princess Margaret who tried gluing matchboxes to tumblers, to make it easier for her to smoke and drink at the same time? Yes! What an absolute diva.
I guess one person’s scrounger is another person’s diva. You’re just jealous. Margaret’s daily routine has just resurfaced and, if the response across social media is anything to go by, she lived the life we all secretly wanted.
Is that so? Listen, this is a woman who woke up at 9am, chain-smoked for two hours while she read the papers, then jumped into a bath run by a servant, where she stayed for an hour. At noon she would dress and go downstairs for a vodka.
This sounds like the schedule of someone who is depressed. No way! Lifestyle kween 4eva! Do you know what she did after that?
Carry on drinking to allay her chronic lack of purpose? No! She had a four-course lunch with the Queen Mother.
And? Oh fine, she drank half a bottle of wine while she ate it. What’s your point?
My point is that this is a terrible routine! Why are people fawning over it? Gregg Wallace.
Pardon? They are saying that Margaret’s life of decadent leisure is in stark contrast with the vigorously compartmentalised daily schedule that Gregg Wallace recently published, complete with 5am wake-up, 8pm bedtime and two hours alone playing Total War Saga: Thrones of Britannia.
At least he’s got a bit of drive. Margaret’s schedule sounds like a record of someone slowly trying to pickle herself to death. Isn’t that the dream? To be free of the tyranny of work, responsibilities, entire mornings and sobriety.
Maybe for a bit, but keeping it up habitually would ruin you. Maybe there’s just a fundamental problem with publishing your daily schedule. Maybe transparency means that you’re just offering yourself up to scrutiny and judgment on a level you don’t deserve.
Look at all the stick Mark Wahlberg got in 2018 when he revealed that he woke up at 2:30am every day so he could work out for four and a half hours before the sun came up.
So you’re saying the format is bad, not the people? Yes, exactly. Although …
Yes? There is one daily schedule we can all still aspire to. Step forward Tom Hollander.
What does his day look like? According to something he wrote in 2020, it’s a slightly melancholic trudge that mainly involves staring at his phone, masturbating and observing his physical decline in a mirror.
Finally, relatability at last. Yes, take that Your Royal Highness.
Do say: “It isn’t aspirational to drink neat vodka at noon.”
Don’t say: “But, hey, if it’s good enough for her …”
Exploring 5 Top Black-Owned Whiskey Brands Worth Trying
Nicole Young, founder of Frisky Whiskey.
A wave of innovation and diversity is reshaping the traditionally impenetrable world of whiskey, and we couldn’t be happier.
Over the last decade in particular, black-owned whisky businesses have become some of the most exciting ones-to-watch; many small-scale, some large-scale, and all with brilliant stories and spirits.
Want to explore and support the best of the best? The five black-owned whiskey brands we’ve highlighted in the list of must-trys, below, are a supremely worthy starting point.
Founder: Fawn Weaver
Uncle Nearest was brought to life by Fawn Weaver, in remembrance of Nathan “Nearest” Green, an once enslaved African-American who taught the skill of whiskey-making to a young individual named Jack Daniel. This made Weaver become the first African-American woman to lead a prominent spirits label, plus, she developed the most-awarded bourbon and American whiskies consistently since 2019. In a nutshell, they all warrant a try.
Founder: Drew Fox
In 2010, Drew Fox initiated his home brewery, never foreseeing that it would turn into the premier award-winning artisanal distillery in Northwest Indiana. Not to mention, a distillery trading in vodka, rum, gin, rye, and bourbon. Especially the two last ones steal the show, from my perspective, with a distinctive, grain-sweet bourbon and a cherry-leaning rye. Residing for a holiday in the brand’s Fermatorium apartments can make for a perfect excuse to revel in some whiskey relaxation.
Founder: Riviera Imports
Inspired by the soothing and soulful sounds of Miles Davis and his all-time bestselling jazz record, Kind of Blue is a whisky that deserves to be on your bar cart. Its deep amber color, originating from a blend of Islay/Speyside/Highland Scotch, offers a unique mix of flavors. There is an abundant richness of fruits, a smoky-sweet spice, with a delicate hint of Madagascan vanilla. A harmony in its unique sense.
Founder: Rakim Mayers (a.k.a A$AP Rocky)
A$AP Rocky’s Canadian whisky blend features as one of the most distinct whiskies on our list. It uses both American white oak (ex-bourbon) and Japanese Mizunara Oak to create an enticingly spicy-sweet flavor. It surpasses the richness of ordinary blends, being twice-distilled and aged for at least four years, offering an incredibly smooth and enjoyable drink.
Founder: Nicole Young
Nicole Young’s Frisky Whiskey is not your average sipper. Breaking away from convention, Frisky’s breakthrough formula uses pure caramel and natural vanilla to accentuate and enhance its liquid, making them a great choice for those who love their whiskies on the sweeter side (without artificial enhancers). Winning the Chairman’s Trophy at the Ultimate Spirits Challenge, earning 95 out of 100 points for taste, it’s also the competition’s highest rated flavored whiskey ever.
Travis Kelce’s Fun Beer Chug with Cardboard Cutout of Shirtless Jason at Chiefs Parade
Travis Kelce celebrated grandly at the Kansas City Chiefs Super Bowl 2024 victory parade on Wednesday, February 14.
During the parade, the 34-year-old Travis noticed a fan in the crowd with a cardboard representation of his sibling Jason Kelce‘s shirtless physique from the Chiefs’ playoff match against the Buffalo Bills. Swinging a bottle of beer, he seized the cutout, positioning it such that his head replaced Jason’s and promptly guzzled down his beer while it trickled down his beard.
A local Kansas City TV station, KCTV, caught this humorous episode during their live coverage of the parade. Although the moment was not discussed during the broadcast, the station shared the incident on their channel with the caption, “Travis Kelce saw a fan with a shirtless Jason Kelce cutout…and acted quickly.”
A fan shared the video, commenting, “…that man is literally THE Taylor Swift’s boyfriend. God I love it here.”
Travis Kelce noticed a fan holding a cutout of a topless Jason Kelce…and swiftly took action 😅
Live Blog:https://t.co/0ltlsOAqD8 pic.twitter.com/GiTOgl3H0K
— KCTV5 News (@KCTV5)February 14, 2024
Star player of Philadelphia Eagles, Jason, aged 36, unexpectedly became a meme on the 21st of January when he enthusiastically supported Travis from a suite at the game in Bills’ Highmark Stadium located in Orchard Park, New York. He was topless, holding a beer, and eventually, he jumped out into the stands among the Bills Mafia to celebrate when his younger sibling scored a touchdown.
Jason’s spouse, Kylie Kelce, pleaded with him to maintain his “best behaviour” during the game, however, the football superstar had other intentions for a wild celebration.
“Her expressions clearly suggested her discomfort with the idea,” Jason candidly shared with Travis during their 24th January episode of the “New Heights” podcast. “I did a pre-emptive informal warning to Kylie. As soon as we entered the suite, I announced my plans of stripping off my shirt and leaping out of the suites.’ But Kylie retorted with a stringent ‘Jason, you better not.’”
Following the astounding Chiefs’
victory at the Super Bowl 2024’s overtime against the San Francisco 49ers on the 11th of February, Sunday, fans anticipated a crazy party from Travis. On securing the celebrated Lombardi Trophy post-game at the Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas, Travis vividly recalled his favourite lyric from the Beastie Boys’ 1986 track, “You’ve got to fight, for your right, to party”.
Post the hard-earned victory, Travis and his girlfriend Taylor Swift, Jason and a coterie comprising teammates and friends headed to XS Nightclub located at Wynn Las Vegas for a night of festivities. DJ Marshmello entertained the crew with pulsating beats at the event, as Travis and Taylor crooned to several of her chartbusters, including a remixed version of “Love Story”, interspersed with numerous romantic interludes.
Expert-Recommended Top 29 Gifts for Wine Lovers in 2024
Shopping for people who love a particular thing can lead to a very specific conundrum: How do you know if you’re getting them a gift that they’ll actually be excited about? This rings especially true for oenophiles, more commonly known as wine lovers. When it comes to the world of wine, there are a lot of different preferences, tastes, varieties and things to know.
Fortunately, finding the best present doesn’t have to be as complicated — especially when you’re armed with gift recommendations from experts with impeccable taste. These gifts, which include everything from the wine glasses you’ll find at Michelin-starred restaurants to a gadget that can keep an open bottle of wine fresh for years, have been hand-picked by expert sommeliers, winemakers, restaurateurs, hospitality pros and people who just know and love their wine.
Los Angeles-based certified sommelier and wine educator Brianne Cohen describes the Josephine No. 2 as “the sexiest wine glasses.” The universal wine glass, which is perfect for reds and whites alike, comes from the legendary Zalto family, whom she refers to as the GOATs of wine glasses. “Slim and dainty stems with gorgeously crafted bowls are a work of art on their own,” she explains, “and showcase your wines with their precise hand-blown craftsmanship.”
Aaron Thompson, a bartender, sommelier and co-owner of Brother Wolf and Osteria Stella in Knoxville, Tennessee, describes this as “a must for any wine lover who wants to keep their wine fresh.” This nifty gadget uses 100% food-grade argon gas to preserve the freshness of an open bottle of wine for years. “We use the Coravin preservation systems at all three of our restaurants because they work so effectively,” says Thompson. Cohen agrees, sharing that it’s perfect for a household with “differing wine preferences or for the person who likes to switch between different wines.” If you’re shopping for someone who tends to prefer bubbly, there’s also a Coravin system for sparkling wines.
“This is my favorite entertaining showstopper,” shares Sarah Tracey, sommelier at The Lush Life. “This ice mold not only keeps your wine chilled for hours, but it doubles as a gorgeous centerpiece,” she says. “Simply fill it with seasonal fruit, flowers or greenery to wow your guests — it’s a wonderful gift for oenophiles that love to host!”
“This is such a fun idea for a wine-soaked game night, especially if the wine-lover on your list has a competitive streak,” shares Tracey. “With trivia categories like ‘Vine to Vino,’ ‘Wine Cellar’ and ‘Cork Culture,’ players get to flex their wine knowledge while beginners can pick up some wine education.”
Chas Martin, co-founder of Duro Hospitality — the group responsible for Dallas’ highly-anticipated restaurant and bar Mister Charles — recommends this book, which holds “a special place” in his heart. “Back in the day, my professor — who’s a master sommelier now — used it as the go-to teaching material in one of my culinary school classes,” says Martin. “It’s super easy to get into, breaks down major wine regions and just gives you this broad, awesome view — seriously, a game-changer.”
“I love a good wine picnic, and this collapsible bamboo board is the perfect way to enjoy one both indoors and outdoors,” shares Amanda McCrossin, sommelier and host of the Wine Access Unfiltered Podcast. “Place your favorite cheeses and spreads directly on the board and keep your glasses and wine from knocking over in the holders — simple but genius design.”
“One of the best ways to continue learning about wine is by drinking outside of your comfort zone,” says McCrossin, and “a well-curated wine club featuring the recommendations of an unrivaled team of sommeliers is a perfect way to explore without the worry of wondering whether the wine will actually be good.” She recommends Wine Access, which boasts a couple subscription services you can choose from. One of the options is Wine Access Unfiltered, which pairs an episode of McCrossin’s own podcast series with four hand-selected bottles every two months, perfect for anyone hoping to learn about wine straight from the expert source.
The 7 best wine subscriptions for bottles delivered to your door
“As a wine glassware expert, I continuously reiterate that decanters are one of the best and most important gifts you could give a wine drinker,” shares Maximilian Riedel, the 11th-generation CEO and president of Riedel. “Decanters are more than mere accessories; they are key tools for getting maximum enjoyment out of wine,” he says. This stunning option is perfect for gifting, especially to those who love to explore different varietals or have an ever-changing wine preference, he explains. “Defined by its ease of use and versatile functionality, it’s ideal for any type of wine, including red, white and Champagne, and can be used to gently decant both older wines and vigorously aerate younger wines.”
“Sabering is such a fun party trick for wine lovers,” shares Desiree Harrison-Brown, a wine educator, influencer and founder of the blog Wino Noire. “Imagine the thrill of slicing open a bottle of Champagne with a sword, sending corks flying and sparking joyous moments.” Martin also recommends a Champagne saber as the perfect celebratory gift. “This adds a touch of French elegance and excitement to any celebration,” he explains, “making for a memorable and unique gift for the bubbly enthusiast in your life.”
“For a slightly more upscale gift, I love to give two glass sets of Gabriel Glas,” shares Ashley Herzberg, winemaker at Avaline. “These glasses are my go-to for writing tasting notes or for a casual glass of wine at home,” she says. “I love them and I love to share them.” They’re also a favorite of McCrossin’s, who refers to them as the little black dress of wine glasses. “A truly great wine glass can really optimize your wine,” she explains, “and this is one of the more affordable well-crafted options, and has that perfect balance of feeling both delicate and durable.”
“True wine lovers know that a lot of the joy of wine discovery lies in exploring pairings,” shares Tracey, “and cheese pairing is a classic way to start evolving your palate.” This subscription from the renowned Murray’s Cheese is available in three different shipping cadences, and each includes a variety of cheeses plus one other accompaniment, selected to pair with that month’s suggested beverage.
The 58 best food gifts for every budget
“This is a personal journey through the wines that have most impacted my career and my take on what makes a real Italian wine,” shares Joe Campanale, co-owner of Bar Vinazo, LaLou and Fausto in Brooklyn, New York, and author of this book. “With a focus on indigenous grape varieties and small producers who are working in an organic and artisan method, this book showcases the most exciting wines being produced in Italy today.”
If you’re on the hunt for a practical yet stylish gift, Martin and McCrossin both endorse this corkscrew for wine enthusiasts. According to Martin, the double-pronged wine opener is “irreplaceable for preserving delicate and aged corks from vintage wines”. McCrossin also approves of this choice: “As a sommelier who has opened thousands of old wine bottles throughout my career, I can attest that this device is a lifesaver.”
The best wine openers of 2024
“This two-book set is a terrific present for anyone who is interested in gaining a deep understanding about wine,” comments Thompson. It extensively discusses the current scenario around wine in France. He further adds, “The book is filled with interesting stories about winemaker families in France and the various winemaker personalities. Plus, the photography is absolutely stunning.”
Tracey speaks highly of these sea salt spice blends created by Barton Seaver, a renowned chef and author, which are designed to complement and bring out the flavor of your choice of wine. She regards them as the perfect treats for wine-loving cooks or cooking aspirants on your gift list.
McCrossin deems this glass as the pinnacle of opulence and exceptional design, explaining that for a full olfactory and gustatory experience of Champagne, a tulip-shaped glass is actually superior to flutes or coupes. This singular piece allows for visibility of the bubbles which are accentuated nicely in its slender base – similar to a flute. The multiple turns leading up to the wider opening make it the perfect Champagne vessel, in her opinion.
Campanale speaks about her friend named Victoria James – a wine director and partner at Cote and Coqodaq. James co-founded an organization that supports women and the BIPOC community within the wine industry. She believes that amplifying more voices in the industry is advantageous for every wine enthusiast.
As a vintner, Herzberg prefers to include a small bonus when gifting a wine bottle. One of her favourite treats to give is a budget-friendly but classy bottle cooler. She believes that it makes a nice addition to her friends’ kitchens and maintains its appeal even when it isn’t being used.
Cohen suggests a wine club membership from Theopolis Vineyards which is owned by a Black woman and located near the border of Mendocino and Sonoma counties. She holds in high regard the petite sirah created by thewinery’s founder and owner, Theodora Lee. She describes it as an exceptional wine that has earned more awards than one can imagine.
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“Never wince or poke a hole in the ceiling again,” says McCrossin. “Simply place this device on top of the Champagne bottle, hold the neck and press the button, and the device will do the rest.” And while useful for most people, it’s a particularly great tool for those with limited mobility or conditions that make gripping a challenge.
“Say goodbye to half-dry wine glasses,” says Harrison-Brown. “These silicone drying racks are designed with openings to allow you to thoroughly air dry your wine glasses.” And as a bonus? They also work great for water bottles, tumblers and protein shakers.
There’s also this option from Kohler. “I purchased this not knowing whether I would actually use it,” says McCrossin, “and now I can’t remember my life without it.” This drying rack fits up to six glasses — even those with a super-wide base — and allows you to let your glasses dry without worry of knocking them over. “It folds completely flat, feels super sturdy and can be stored easily under the sink,” says McCrossin.
“A good crystal wine glass that works for most occasions is an always welcome gift idea,” says Thompson. Riedel is appreciated for its clever and functional design – each aspect, including the shape and size, is designed with the intention of accentuating specific types of wines and their fragrances. “These Riedel glasses are ideal for both white and red wines, and a great starting point for wine novices,” he adds.
Though it may first appear to be a book about architecture, McCrossin explains that it offers a behind-the-scenes glimpse of some of the most respected, noted, and stunning wineries and residences in Napa Valley. “This collective of architects from Napa Valley is well-renowned in the wine industry,” states McCrossin. “This is the ideal coffee table book, whether you wish to reminisce about a wine tasting trip, look forward to an upcoming one, or get an insider’s perspective on some of the world’s most exclusive wineries.”
For the individuals who would prefer to be indulging in a glass of wine on a vineyard rather than anywhere else, Harrison-Brown suggests this sweatshirt that highlights regions from some of the leading wine-producing nations.
A handsome wine decanter magnifies the wine drinking experience,” says Thompson, who encourages this graceful yet reasonably priced option that has the capacity to hold a full bottle of wine. “This decanter has a simple design with clean lines, and it’s effortless to pour from,” he remarks. “We recommend decanting young wines that are packed with character to allow them to breathe and thus reveal more of their concealed fragrances.”
Harrison-Brown describes this as “the top-rated wine text for beginners and experts alike.” The writer “guides you around the planet, experimenting with wines, cuisines, cultures, and more,” leading to an exciting, but incredibly enlightening and enjoyable read.
“Alice Feiring is the authority on organic wines and I’ve subscribed to her newsletter for several years,” remarks Campanale. “She just relocated to Paris to be nearer to the organic wine universe’s epicenter and I am eager to read her updates. Her passion and support for natural wines are not because they’re trendy or appealing, but because she appreciates fine wine.”
“This one is a bit extravagant, but for when you wish to amaze a wine enthusiast,” mentions Tracey. “Known for their exquisitely designed knives, Laguiole produces the ultimate standard of wine openers — items that are meant to become heirlooms.” This beauty is designed with a green malachite stone circle.
The 46 most luxurious gifts that are pricier but definitely worth the money
First Sneak Peek: Amex’s Largest Centurion Lounge in Atlanta Offering Whiskey and Outdoor Seating
CNN Underscored reviews financial products based on their overall value. We may receive a commission through our affiliate partners if you apply and are approved for a product, but our reporting is always independent and objective. Terms apply to American Express benefits and offers. Enrollment may be required for select American Express benefits and offers. Visit americanexpress.com to learn more.
American Express is opening its largest Centurion Lounge yet at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) tomorrow, Feb. 14, 2024. The lounge is a whopping 26,000 square feet and a welcome addition to Delta’s largest hub, which is known for overcrowded Delta Sky Clubs.
Related article: How to upgrade your vacation and save money with Amex Travel
The lounge is a step above the rest of the lounges in Amex’s network too. It has multiple outdoor spaces, a whiskey bar, locally inspired food and several other amenities that make for a luxurious pre-departure experience. The opening will mark the 28th lounge in the Centurion Lounge network.
“This lounge is a reflection of everything we have learned over the past ten years in the lounge business about our customers, the way they travel and the way they use the lounges,” says Audrey Hendley, President of American Express Travel. “This is our largest and most innovative space to date, offering travelers the first-ever whiskey bar in a Centurion Lounge and our first-ever outdoor terraces.”
CNN Underscored just attended a media event at the Atlanta Centurion Lounge a day before the lounge opens to the public, and needless to say, we were impressed. Let’s take a look at Amex’s newest lounge and what to expect on your first visit.
Entering the Atlanta Centurion Lounge has the same requirements as entering any other Centurion Lounge: You’ll need a boarding pass for a flight departing in the next three hours, and the right Amex card.
Your ultimate guide to the American Express Membership Rewards program.
You can enter the lounge with the The Platinum Card® from American Express or The Business Platinum Card® from American Express — both cards provide unlimited access for primary account holders and authorized users. You can earn guest privileges by spending $75,000 on your card in a single calendar year, or you can pay $50 per guest ($30 for children between 2 and 17).
You can also enter the lounge with the Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card or the Delta SkyMiles® Reserve Business American Express Card if you’re flying with Delta. Access is provided to primary card members and authorized users.
Don’t have a qualifying card but want to enter the lounge? Consider applying for a new card:
How you can access some of the world’s best airport lounges in 2024
As mentioned, the Atlanta Centurion Lounge is a whopping 26,000 square feet, making it a significant addition to the world’s busiest airport, Atlanta. This lounge is a major part of the bank’s expanding airport lounge network. Let’s take a peek inside.
Located in Atlanta’s Concourse E near gate E11, the lounge can be accessed from all Atlanta concourses. Regardless of your airline, you can utilize the lounge, just use the airport’s Plane Train system for far gates.
Finding the lounge should be easy, thanks to its large facade that was concealed during the media preview. Standout with a large American Express logo outside, you shouldn’t encounter any problem locating the lounge.
Upon entering the lounge, you’ll encounter American Express’ signature living wall adjacent to the check-in counter. Ensure to have your boarding pass and eligible Amex card ready for check-in.
There’s no shortage of seating in this lounge — a huge perk given how busy Atlanta’s airport is. Seating is divided by section. There are three small seating areas immediately following the check-in area. Here, you’ll find a mixture of lounge chairs, couches, and standard dining-style tables.
The main room — which has a real olive tree in the middle — has a variety of tables and booths. This is a great area to enjoy a meal or a drink away from the dining room and bar, which could get loud during peak travel hours.
The dining room has plenty of room to enjoy a meal. It’s surrounded by two buffets and a coffee station, and there’s a full-service bar that serves cocktails, beer, and wine.
You’ll also find phone booths and workstations to the right of the dining room. Head here if you need to take a Zoom call or otherwise get work done during your time at the Atlanta Centurion Lounge.
There’s also a whiskey bar — dubbed The Reserve — near the front of the lounge. I’ll discuss its drink offerings in the next section, but it also has bar and table seating for you to enjoy a drink or two.
But perhaps the best part of the lounge is the outdoor seating. There’s a large terrace overlooking the tarmac and another attached to the whiskey bar. Both are heated in the winter and have plenty of seating, so you can enjoy some fresh air before your flight.
Atlanta-based chef Deborah VanTrece created the food menu for this lounge, and all the food we tried was solid. She’s also the chef behind Atlanta restaurants like Twisted Soul Cookhouse & Pours, Oreatha’s at the Point and La Panarda.
All food is served buffet-style. On the day of the media event, we were treated to za’atar grilled chicken thighs, black-eyed pea biryani and baked mac and cheese, among other Southern-inspired dishes. There are also desserts, fruit, cheese and other snacks available.
Of course, there’s no shortage of drinks. There are two self-service coffee and water stations on opposite ends of the lounge. Both drip coffee and espresso are available. Coffee is provided by Georgia-based Rev Coffee Roasters.
But the bars are the real star of the show. The main bar serves craft beer, cocktails and wines, and there’s a selection of nonalcoholic cocktails available too. Drinks are complimentary for patrons.
Things get more interesting when you visit The Reserve, the lounge’s whiskey bar. It’s in a separate room toward the front of the lounge, and it serves a variety of unique cocktails and special whiskeys. Some whiskeys on offer include Four Roses, Whistle Pig 6 Year and Rowan’s Creek, among many others.
The quality of the food and drink is on par with what you’ll find at other lounges, but the whiskey bar is a unique touch that sets the lounge apart from other Centurion Lounges.
Your ultimate guide to the American Express Membership Rewards program
The Atlanta Centurion Lounge is an excellent addition to American Express’ lounge network. Refreshed amenities and outdoor space make it a truly unique space in the Atlanta airport, and it shows the company’s commitment to providing card members with an upgraded travel experience.
I hope that American Express will update some of the older lounges in its network. Some of the older Centurion Lounges — namely, the lounges in Charlotte, Miami and Los Angeles — are starting to feel dated when compared to the competition. Bringing older Centurion Lounges up to the Atlanta lounge’s design standard would be a huge upgrade across the board.
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Delicious Valentine’s Day Cocktail Recipes from Buckeye Vodka
Feb. 13—This Valentine’s Day Buckeye Vodka is unveiling two cocktail recipes that are perfect for enjoying with your significant other.
From a rich and indulgent Cherry Chocolate Espresso Martini to a fiery Firebomb shot, these two concoctions are set to deliver warmth and pleasure from within.
Cherry Chocolate Espresso Martini
Components:
2 oz. Buckeye Vodka
2 oz. Kahlua
2 oz. Espresso
Pink sugar
Melted chocolate
Cherries for garnish
Directions: Add all ingredients into a shaker filled with ice. Rim glass with melted chocolate and pink sugar. Shake it up and strain into a martini glass. Skewer cherries and garnish.
Buckeye Firebomb
Ingredients:
—2 oz Buckeye Vodka
—4 oz Orange juice
—3 oz Maraschino cherry juice
2 dashes of your favorite hot sauce
Cherry jam
Tajín
Pink sanding sugar
Directions: Rim four shot glasses with cherry jam, Tajín and sanding sugar. Add a maraschino cherry to each shot glass. Combine all ingredients with ice into a shaker, and mix. Pour into shot glasses and enjoy!
Buckeye Vodka is an Ohio made vodka that is distilled 10 times — giving a smooth taste that mixes perfectly with any cocktail.
The company is celebrating Valentine’s Day with giveaways on their TikTok page. All you have to do is answer a trivia question for a chance to win a Buckeye Vodka prize pack including a $50 gift card for a dinner for two at one of Buckeye Vodka’s restaurant partners.
For more information about Buckeye Vodka, visit www.buckeyevodka.com.
Expansion News: Charlotte-area Brewery to Open Second Location with In-house Restaurant and Outdoor Beer Garden
A Charlotte-area brewery that opened during the pandemic plans to build a second location featuring a microbrewery, restaurant and an outdoor beer garden.
Royal Bliss Brewing owner Larry Griffin also plans a musical stage in the front yard of his Royal Bliss II project located at 19149 West Catawba Ave., near Lake Norman in Cornelius, town planning documents show.
Cornelius town planners on Monday recommended the Cornelius Board of Commissioners approve the concept plan at a future meeting.
Construction could be finished by late 2025, Cornelius Today reported.
Royal Bliss II is planned to occupy nearly 3-acres of unused land adjacent to the long-awaited Junker multi-family project to the south, an office structure to the east, and a boat repair shop and power substation to the north, as detailed in municipal planning documents.
The proposed restaurant and microbrewery would span 10,000 square feet. To put it in perspective, an average McDonald’s restaurant occupies 4,000 square feet.
A sidewalk, measuring 5-feet in width, is in the plans along the frontage of the property, which will join with the already existing sidewalk on Harbor View Drive.
According to The Cornelius Land Use Plan, the property’s primary function would be to host restaurants.
The Planning Board on Monday recommended that amplified outdoor music be allowed from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays and prohibited after 10 p.m. Sundays through Thursdays.
Discover the Ideal Snow Day Cocktail: An Easy Rum Drink Recipe
While a big winter storm is hitting the northeast, you don’t have to be experiencing a snow day to enjoy this storm cloud of a cocktail. A Dark ’n Stormy is an easy drink to make (and worth putting your winter boots on to go get the ingredients if you don’t already have them).
Get a tropical vibe even if you’re snowed in with a Dark ‘n Stormy cocktail.
The Dark ’n Stormy was born in Bermuda and features Goslings dark rum floating on top of spicy ginger beer. Visually, it looks like a looming storm cloud, and it’s similar to a Moscow Mule, except with rum instead of vodka. The addition of lime gives it a bit of tartness and cuts the sugar of the ginger beer.
Fun fact: the Dark ’n Stormy is actually a trademarked cocktail by Goslings and must contain Goslings Black Seal Rum in order to be called one. According to Goslings, their flagship Black Seal Rum has become synonymous with Bermuda. You can find it in Bermuda fish chowder, in a Bermuda Rum Swizzle and of course as an essential ingredient in the Dark ’n Stormy.
If you can find it, Goslings Black Seal Rum Artist Edition is a beautiful bottle featuring a colorful collage. Created in collaboration with Bermuda artists Nhuri Bashir and Domico Watson it features icons pulled directly from vintage Goslings ads and bottle labels. (Very cool!)
Goslings Black Seal Rum Artist Edition
Ready to make a Dark ’n Stormy? Here’s what you need:
Have you tried making a Dark ’n Stormy? Let me know how it came out in the comments!