APRIL 2019
LifestylePubs.com/Westport
SOMETHING GREEN: AN ECO-FRIENDLY APPROACH TO YOUR BIG DAY SNEAK PEEK OF THE INCREDIBLE NEW WESTPORT LIBRARY LOCAL EARTHFRIENDLY FINDS
NOURISHING YOUR DAILY EXPERIENCE
Photographed by Tim Lenz
LIFESTYLE LETTER
APRIL 2019 PUBLISHER
Marisa MacLean | marisa.maclean@lifestylepubs.com EDITORIAL SUPERVISOR
Robin Moyer Chung | robin.chung@lifestylepubs.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Going Green
Robin Moyer Chung, Sophia Andersen CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Mindy Briar, John Videler
DO YOU HEAR THAT? It’s the sound of nature springing to life after a long winter’s nap. Birds are chirping, flowers are blooming and children are playing outside as the weather gets warmer and the days grow longer. This month, at Westport Lifestyle, we bring you our Eco issue in honor of Earth Day on April 22. Inspired by the infinite beauty of the earth—and our desire to preserve and protect it—we’ve highlighted many elements of our town that are adapting eco-friendly practices. In this issue, we get a sneak peek at the progress of the Westport Library multi-million-dollar renovation. The construction plans include the use of solar panels and new high-efficiency HVAC units incorporated beautifully into the existing structure. Spring is also the beginning of wedding season! In this issue, we’ll attend a gorgeous spring wedding featuring many eco-friendly components from local vendors. We also explore an eco-friendly way to remodel your kitchen utilizing your existing cabinets. Being green can also be glamorous! Keep reading to learn about new eco-friendly fashion trends, products and home decor.
CORPORATE TEAM CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry
We also get a lesson in fire safety from the amazing men and women at the Westport Fire Department. Living in a coastal community, they do a lot of life-saving over and above fighting fires. Whether or not you have a green thumb, we hope the stories in these pages invoke feelings of gratitude for the wonderful world we live in—and the wonderful people in our community who strive to sustain it. Not sure where to start? As the saying goes,
CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson EDITORIAL MANAGER Nicolette Martin AD MANAGER Chad Jensen REGIONAL SALES DIRECTOR Eric Williams WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell
think globally and act locally! Happy spring, Westport! Can’t wait to see you around town. ARIZONA | CALIFORNIA | COLORADO | CONNECTICUT | FLORIDA | GEORGIA IDAHO | ILLINOIS | KANSAS | MARYLAND | MINNESOTA | MISSOURI | MONTANA NEVADA | NEW JERSEY | NORTH CAROLINA | OHIO | OKLAHOMA | OREGON TENNESSEE | TEXAS | VIRGINIA | WASHINGTON
ON THE COVER Our green wedding feature incorporating wonderful local vendors and beautiful eco-friendly options. Turn to page 24 to read more.
PHOTOGRAPHY BY MINDY BRIAR 6
Westport Lifestyle | April 2019
Marisa MacLean, Publisher
LifestylePubs.com/Westport
514 W 26TH ST., KANSAS CITY, MO Proverbs 3:5-6 Westport Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Westport areas’ most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in Westport Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.
CHOICES = R E S U LT S
S E R V I N G FA I R F I E L D C O U N T Y F O R 5 Y E A R S ! !
Giving you the choices you deserve.
79 South Benson Road Fairfield, CT 06824
203.292.5559 DrChristineGould.com
INSIDE THE ISSUE APRIL 2019
FEATURES 18 It's a Bird... It's a Plane... It's Firemen! (and Firewomen!) Protecting Our Environment and Protecting Our People: A Typical Day for the Westport Fire Department
24 Something Green An Eco-Friendly Approach to Your Big Day Is as Easy as Saying 'I Do'
30 Eco-Genius Solution to Kitchen Renovations Further Proof that Happiness Comes from Within
24 18
34 The Incredible New Westport Library
30
34
DEPARTMENTS 6
Lifestyle Letter
10
Good Times
14
Around Town
18
Inspired By
30 Renovate & Refine 34 Open House 40 Lifestyle Calendar 42 Trend Setter
GOOD TIMES 1.
2.
3.
WestportMoms' Two-Year Anniversary Despite a squall and below-0 temperatures, WestportMoms celebrated its two-year anniversary with a party at The Pearl at Longshore on Wednesday, Jan. 30. WestportMoms goes beyond word of mouth to offer an up-to-date, informational and exciting reference for local families who want to stay in the know about everything within the Westport community and beyond. PHOTOGRAPHY BY MATT DECOLA
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
1. Megan Rutstein and Melissa Post (co-founders of WestportMoms.com) | 2. Gillian Libby, Miryha Fantegrossi, Elizabeth Hauser, Natalia Feinstein, Jennifer Katzner and Papri Harkey | 3. Robin Spolansky, Kimberly Greenberg, Jodi Sosman and Alison Fagen | 4. Jenna Goldman, Megan Rutstein, Melissa Post, Jen Falik and Emily Rosnick | 5. Johanna Snibbe-Nardin, Kristin Hantler, Sugey Zimmer, Ursula Lyon, Nikki Brancati-Harrington and Natalia Romero | 6. Ali Matthews, Carly Ritter, Robin Kaiden, Jennifer Mehok, Melissa Post and Megan Rutstein | 7. Sarah True, Cori Adams, Megan Rutstein and Erica Bryniczka | 8. Courtney Davis, Victoria Considine, Kristin Shafer and Erin Spillman | 9. Megan Rutstein, Melissa Post and Marisa MacLean
The Moth at Westport Country Playhouse Westport Country Playhouse presented The Ties That Bind: The Moth in Westport. The sold-out live show featured five storytellers including Westport residents; Jane Green, New York Times best-selling author; and Dan Woog, writer and founder of the “06880” blog. Since 1997, The Moth has presented more than 35,000 true personal stories, told live, without notes, to standing-roomonly audiences worldwide. PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOELLE SCHROCK FOR THE MOTH
1.
2.
3.
1. Jane Green | 2. Dan Woog | 3. Storytellers Dan Woog, Alistair Bane, Henia Lewin, Host Dame Wilburn, Trina Michelle Robinson, Jane Green and musician Ezgi Icellioglu 10
Westport Lifestyle | April 2019
DR. MASHA KOGAN & DR. VIRGINIA ROMANO
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Westport Lifestyle | April 2019
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I N J E C TA B L E S
AROUND TOWN
INVITATIONS & FINE STATIONERY
WESTPORT WOMAN'S CLUB ART SHOW On Saturday evening, April 28, and Sunday afternoon, April 29, the popular Westport Woman’s Club’s Art Show, curated by Miggs Burroughs, opens to the public. Singer Melissa Newman will perform at Saturday’s opening reception. Chair Jo Fuchs Luscombe notes this year’s Art Show honors late artist Bobbie Friedman, wife of Drew Friedman. This annual show, featuring local artists, seeks to generate sales for them and funds for needs-based college scholarships for Staples High School seniors. WestportWomansClub.org
WESTPORT ARBOR PROGRAM Arbor Program was launched in 2016 to enhance Westport's parks and to provide a way to honor and celebrate the lives and achievements of friends and families. Donors can choose their location and tree.
5A SCONSET SQUARE | WESTPORT 203-557-6777 | bespokedesigns.com
Price of the tree is based on the cost of planting and a fund for five-year maintenance (e.g., fertilization, watering, pruning and replacement if necessary). WestportFriendsOfParkRec.com
14
Westport Lifestyle | April 2019
GRAND E LE GAN CE 10 HICKORY LANE | WESTON | $2.350M
THE GREAT DUCK PROJECT AT MAKER FAIRE The Great Duck Project is a first-of-its-kind global crowdsourcing science and art initiative, allowing people from around the world to 3D print pieces that will become part of a 6-foot-tall, 476-piece duck. Go to TheGreatDuckProject.org to sign up. You'll be emailed a file containing a specific duck part to be printed on a 3D printer, then follow the instructions. The duck will be built at Maker Faire Westport (Westport Library) on Saturday, April 27. For more information, contact Mark Mathias at mark@remarkablesteam.org, 203.226.1791.
AWARE CT CREATES A SAFE SPACE FOR REFUGEE GIRLS Make a difference in the lives of young women in our community. Local nonprofit AWARE CT (Assisting Women Through Action, Resources & Education) is committed to uplifting and empowering underserved women and children in Fairfield County. This year, the nonprofit has partnered with CIRI (Connecticut Institute for Refugees & Immigrants) to create a safespace for the daughters of political refugees and asylum seekers residing in Bridgeport.To learn more, become a volunteer or to donate to AWARE CT, visit AWARECT.org.
WESTPORT OUTDOOR MARKET Organized by Annette Norton, owner of the retail store Savvy + Grace, 146 Main
MICHELLE
COMPANY
your home. your realtor.
St., Westport. CONTINUED >
MICHELLEANDCOMPANY.COM | WILLIAM RAVEIS LUXURY PROPERTIES | 203.454.4663
April 2019 | Westport Lifestyle
15
AROUND TOWN (CON TI N UED) An outdoor market with an eclectic diversified mix of artisans, being held at the parking lot off Main Street on April 28 behind the store Savvy + Grace. The vendors are from all over Connecticut. It will be a tightly curated selection of jewelry, art, crafts and more by local artisans and crafters. Bringing a community gathering vibe to downtown, suitable for the whole family. Rain date the following Sunday. 10 a.m. 4 p.m.
COCKTAILS FOR A CURE Thee Barn at Westport Country Playhouse Join us April 4 from 7–9:30 p.m. for an evening of cocktails, light bites, treats and music at the Barn at Westport Country Playhouse to
support
pancreatic
cancer
research! Admission includes wine and beer, hors d’oeuvres, music and a custom candy bar provided by Rosebud Boxes.
SPRING FOR ABILIS GALA
90 Post Rd E Westport, CT Side Entrance Next to Restoration Hardware
Brunch Prix Fixe
Sundays
Woodway Country Club Abilis,
a
nonprofit
organi-
zation that provides services and
supports
for
individuals
with special needs and their families, will hold its Spring for Abilis Gala on Saturday, April 27, at 7 p.m., at the Woodway Country Club in Darien. The evening will include a Champagne reception, cocktails, dinner and dancing, as well as silent and live auctions. Live music will be provided by ETA Music. Funds raised at the Spring for Abilis Gala will help Abilis provide essential services and support for more than 700 individuals of all ages with special needs and their families. The tax-deductible tickets start at $350 and can be reserved online at 501Auctions.com/spring4abilis.
16
Westport Lifestyle | April 2019
April 2019 | Westport Lifestyle
17
INSPIRED BY
It's a Bird... It’s a Plane...
It's Firemen! (and Firewomen!) PROTECTING OUR ENVIRONMENT AND PROTECTING OUR PEOPLE: A TYPICAL DAY FOR THE WESTPORT FIRE DEPARTMENT ARTICLE ROBIN MOYER CHUNG PHOTOGRAPHY JOHN VIDELER AND PROVIDED
IF YOU’RE ME, OR ONE OF MY FRIENDS, YOU
KNOW
THE
WESTPORT
FIRE
DEPARTMENT AS THE GUYS WHO SHOW UP WHEN THE FIRE ALARM GOES OFF WHILE YOU’RE COOKING DINNER. But they do much more than protect us from our inability to prepare a meal without a smoke signal. In fact, calling them “firefighters” may even be a misnomer. Yes, they battle blazes, but that’s only the beginning. “Our firefighters' mission and ambition is to protect life and property through prevention, education and suppression. Our proudest moments are to save lives and deliver the highest quality service to those in need,” says Assistant Chief Jeffrey Gootman. For instance, on a rainy evening in February 2017, an elderly couple confused a boat ramp with a street and drove their car into Saugatuck River. Firefighters were on the scene in minutes, dove in and pulled them from the icy water (the wife survived but the husband could not be revived.) Last summer, two firefighters pulled a man out of a swimming pool on Morningside Drive South moments before he drowned. And firefighters were first to test the air at Coleytown Middle School this fall, after scores of students were sent home with flu-like symptoms. They’ve delivered babies, rescued workers from trenches and saved the life of a woman with an automated extended defibrillator (AED) after she had been clinically dead for 4 minutes. When they’re not performing cape-worthy heroics, they’re teaching your children and seniors about fire safety and raising money for veterans and disabled individuals. 18
Westport Lifestyle | April 2019
Performing a vehicle extrication; AC Cohen, AC Gootman, FF Workman, FF Perrotti and Lt. Lupo
HERE ARE SOME EXTRAORDINARY WFD NUMBERS:
19,000:
4,036:
terrifying rescue (cold water, trench, building collapse, vehicle extrication)
last year from stakeholders (residents
and other disciplines.
and visitors).
Number of man-hours spent training in 2018. Training includes all manner of
82 67 15
NUMBER OF CALLS FOR ACTUAL FIRES.
Record number of calls they received
Under 5 and Over 65: Ages of highest risk groups for fire incidents.
NUMBER OF FIREFIGHTERS IN WESTPORT. Of these, 54 are EMTs, 13 are paramedics.
NUMBER OF FIREFIGHTERS ON DUTY DURING EACH SHIFT.
COUNTLESS:
Number of specialty areas within the WFD, including:
HAZARDOUS MATERIALS RESPONSE TEAM, Fairfield County Hazardous Incident Response Team (FCHIRT) Lt. Tobias Ostapchuk “Hazmat is the end of the line in the public safety response chain. In most instances, no other resources are coming in after the Hazmat team. Our team mitigates anything and everything that our front-line public safety professionals (fire/police/EMS) cannot handle. “With our AreaRAE meter package, we can monitor for combustible atmo-
4:
Number of fire stations around town: headquarters on Post Road, Coleytown, Greens Farms and Saugatuck.
3:
Number of times my son, as a kindergartner, fact-checked 911, causing firefighters to be dispatched to our residence.
1:
Number of minutes it takes our firefighters to get dressed and out of the firehouse during an incident.
spheres, carbon monoxide, hydrogen sulfide and oxygen levels. We also are able to detect volatile organic compounds and radioactive materials.”
CONTINUED >
April 2019 | Westport Lifestyle
19
INSPIRED BY
(CON TI N U ED)
TECHNICAL RESCUE
Fire safety education
Asst. Chief Brian Meadows “Most frequent are motor vehicle accidents and extrications… during [which] the vehicle is cut away from the injured occupants using hydraulic rescue tools. “Last year there were 25 responses for water, ice or swift water rescue. “Rope rescue, low or highangle is another area of concern, in the event a [construction] worker gets injured and is unable to return to the ground on their own. Using rope rescue equipment, firefighters will safely rescue the injured worker.” COMMUNICATIONS RESPONSE TEAM Asst. Chief Matt Cohen “[We] respond to scheduled and large-scale emergency scenes. The team aids the incident commander in setting up a command post, providing tactical communications and procuring necessary resources. The team [also] augments a public safety communication system in times of failure. The team’s response vehicle is outfitted with deployable radios and on-board radio infrastructure. It also has an outfitted conference room for use as a command post. “[Recently] the team responded to the tornadoes in Brookfield. The team was deployed for multiple operational periods and provided interoperable radio communications, on-scene data solutions, as well as a command post for the Operations Chief.” COMBINED POLICE AND FIRE DIVE TEAM Lt. Todd Denke “The team includes six WFD members, five Police Department members and one EMS paramedic. Each month's training is put on by two members of the team and focuses on skills such as search patterns, vehicle recovery, night dive, etc. In the event of an incident, the dive team is paged to respond. The on-duty divers work with responding personnel to perform size-up and get the
gas grills (which is the first thing I did after speaking
ball rolling until off-duty divers arrive.”
with him.) He also stresses the importance of having a home fire plan: every family member should have
FIRE PREVENTION AND PUBLIC FIRE EDUCATION
two exits from their bedrooms and a meeting spot
Fire Marshal Nathaniel Gibbons
outside the home. Knowing your family is safe affords
Responsible for fire code enforcement and educa-
firefighters valuable time to save your home instead of
tion for children, senior citizens and venues such as
searching for occupants (which is the second thing I
Slice of Saugatuck.
did after speaking with him.)
According to the fire marshal, the most common
A huge thank you to the firefighters who risk their lives
causes of fires in Westport are carelessness and
every day to save ours, who smile graciously at cooks
human behavior, such as throwing ashes in garbage
who set off fire alarms and who understand that 911 is a
bins and not checking propane appliances such as
magical number for young children.
20
Westport Lifestyle | April 2019
Lt. Dan Mascolo, firefighter Liz Ferguson and firefighter Pete Chila
Yes, they battle blazes, but that’s only the beginning.
IF CHANEL & JIMI HENDRIX HAD A DAUGHTER...
117 Post Road East Westport (203) 557-4157
west2westport.com Water rescue; FF Balich April 2019 | Westport Lifestyle
21
Mark your calendars for these exciting upcoming WDMA events: Downtown Westport Fashion & Beauty Event Thursday, May 16 and Friday, May 17 Westport Sidewalk Sales *New Dates June 28, 29, and 30 *N Westport Fine Arts Festival *New Dates Saturday, July 20 and Sunday, July 21 Westoberfest Saturday, October 19
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Westport Lifestyle | April 2019
April 2019 | Westport Lifestyle
23
something green
WITH COUNTLESS LOCAL RESOURCES, AN ECO-FRIENDLY APPROACH TO YOUR BIG DAY IS AS EASY AS SAYING ‘I DO’ ARTICLE SOPHIA ANDERSEN PHOTOGRAPHY MINDY BRIAR
24
Westport Lifestyle | April 2019
April marks the beginning of wedding season, and with spring in the air, it's a great time to be inspired to give back to planet Earth. Although it may be difficult to make every element of your wedding eco-friendly, even a little change can make a big impact. One effective yet simple way to plan a more environmentally conscious wedding is to shop locally. Did you know there are enough local resources to plan your entire wedding without having to drive more than 30 minutes from Westport? Just think of all the gas, miles and time you save! Not to mention, you will be supporting local businesses all the while, which keeps our beautiful hometown economy strong and thriving. The best part is, many local vendors also offer environStationery: Bespoke Designs
mentally friendly options, like eco-conscious stationery from Bespoke Designs. “We work closely with companies that are deeply eco-conscious. This invitation [pictured] is created on tree-free paper using low-VOC inks in a 100 percent wind-powered facility,” says Shari Lebowitz of Bespoke Designs. In the case of flowers and decor, look no further than Fiore Flower Studio. This creative and unique company uses plantdyed silk ribbon, recycled wood chargers and up-cycled brass candle holders paired with fresh floral arrangements inspired CONTINUED >
April 2019 | Westport Lifestyle
25
SOMETHING GREEN
(CON TI N U ED)
by wildflowers. Even jewelry can be eco-friendly: Faye Kim, a fine and custom jewelry destination in Westport, participates in the global effort to preserve our planet's future as a certified retailer of Harmony Recycled Metals. PRO TIP: We asked a local pro, Sarah True, owner
and
creative
director
at
True
Event
(TrueEvent.com), for her No. 1 piece of advice when planning a "green" wedding. "One of the most common questions we get when working with couples is how they can donate the flowers at the end of the night," Sarah says. "It is a great way to be able to recycle your wedding flowers and to spread joy to people in nursing homes or in hospitals and to let the flowers live on past the wedding day. And there are some amazing companies out there that will do it for you. One of our favorites is Repeat Roses [RepeatRoses.com] and another is Rebloom [RebloomIt.com]"
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Westport Lifestyle | April 2019
vendor list MODELS: Rob and Hannah Guinta PHOTOGRAPHER: Mindy Briar Photography. MindyBriar.com VENUE: The Inn at Longshore. InnAtLongshore.com BRIDAL HAIR AND MAKEUP: Whip Salon. WhipSalon.com DRESS: Designed by Lela Rose. Available at Plumed Serpent. PlumedSerpentBridal.com HEADPIECE AND VEIL: Designed by Debra Moreland. Available at Plumed Serpent. PlumedSerpentBridal.com RINGS, EARRINGS AND BRACELET: Faye Kim. FayeKim.com SHOES: Designed by Jeffrey Campbell. Available at Shoes’N’More. ShoesNMore.com SPECIALTY LIGHTING: Vivid Events. YourVividEvent.com CAKE: The Cakebox. TheCakeboxOfCT.com CHAIRS AND TABLE: Abbey Tent. AbbeyTent.com FLOWERS AND STYLING: Fiore Flower Studio. FioreFlowerStudio.com STATIONERY AND CALLIGRAPHY: Bespoke Designs. BespokeDesigns.com April 2019 | Westport Lifestyle
27
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RENOVATE & REFINE ECO-SOLUTION TO OVERHAULING MESSY CABINETS
ShelfGenie Proves Happiness Comes from Within ARTICLE ROBIN MOYER CHUNG | PHOTOGRAPHY JOHN VIDELER
A ShelfGenie interior with gliders
FEW THINGS DIMINISH ONE’S ZEST FOR LIFE FASTER THAN
Building a better cabinet starts with a meeting with Alex. A bit of
FORAGING FOR A SAUCEPAN IN THE TROLL’S DEN OF A COR-
background about him: Alex spent the first 23 years of his career
NER CABINET. And battling one’s way through an overflowing pantry
traveling the world as a menswear buyer and merchandiser for
can force the most eco-minded of folks to fantasize about ripping out
Saks, Original Penguin, Banana Republic and more. So his interest
their kitchen and dumping it in a landfill. Which is why ShelfGenie’s
in design and quality made SG an appealing fit, seeking functional
custom cabinet interiors—with pull-outs, dividers and sloping
solutions within raw spaces.
shelves—will make you more excited than, perhaps, a cabinet should.
The initial meeting is a friendly chat about your needs and shop-
To be clear, SG doesn’t replace cabinets; they transform the inte-
ping habits. For instance, are you a Costco club member? You’ll need
rior shelves from repositories of mayhem to easy-to-access havens
gliders that hold 100-200 pounds of product. Do you shop organic?
of domestic bliss. Doll them up with some fresh paint, and you have
You may need dividers and gliders of varying heights to accommo-
a new kitchen at a fraction of the price of a renovation, without the
date “loose” bulk purchases. Do you love to cook? You’ll want what
stress and environmental havoc.
Alex calls a “lazy Susan on steroids,” a Star Trek-esque assemblage
“People want to be neat,” explains SG owner Alex Modica, “but they don’t know how to do it.” And, to be fair, some of us are neat but still have drawers full of lidless Tupperware and… things.
of rotating shelves with small gliders so hundreds of spices and oils are easy to locate and grab. According to Alex, clients are surprised at all the ways in which they can improve storage. He shows photos of pantries built
“You don’t need to have a mental disorder to have a professional
beneath staircases, with shelves sloped to display all manner
organizer,” Alex says (referring to A&E’s Hoarders). You just need a
of unseen and forgotten foodstuffs. There were gliders beneath
desire to get your stuff without organizing a search party.
kitchen sinks, cut to accommodate whatever permanent things
30
Westport Lifestyle | April 2019
“PEOPLE WANT TO BE NE AT, BUT THE Y DON’ T KNOW HOW TO DO IT.” –ALE X MODICA, SHELFGENIE OWNER Before: An impossible pantry
lurk beneath kitchen sinks, and new cabinet interiors SG created behind original mid-century facades. By the end of meeting, he’s already whipped up design possibilities for you with a proprietary 3D design tool.
After: Pantry with a ShelfGenie makeover
Alex Modica, owner of ShelfGenie Fairfield County
After you approve the designs, his team schedules a time to measure the spaces. While your cabinet doors remain intact, you don’t need to be a slave to their dimensions. If you want more interior room, he can consolidate spaces behind them, giving the outward effect of multiple cupboards but increasing the internal storage space. Next, the shelves are created in their studio, then installed in your home. The entire process takes around eight weeks depending on the scope of the project. And, then, he waits for you to experience the special ShelfGenie joy. “[SG] makes your life so easy. When I say it, it sounds like a marketing line, but clients tell me that all that time,” Alex admits. “One client told me, ‘I think of you every day.’” To paraphrase Beyonce: Happiness comes from you. No one else can make you happy. Except, perhaps, someone who can help you find everything in your cabinet. April 2019 | Westport Lifestyle
31
Serving Westport and the surrounding communities Greenwich | Stamford | Nor walk | Southport
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Monday-Friday 5pm-7pm
With decades of experience, Blackstones Steakhouse Group is proud of its impeccable ser vice, ambiance and extraordinar y food.
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mindy.wolkstein@raveis.com mindywolkstein.raveis.com 203.216.1287
47 Riverside Avenue Westport, CT 06880
32
Westport Lifestyle | April 2019
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westport’s photographer April 2019 | Westport Lifestyle
33
OPEN HOUSE
ARTICLE ROBIN MOYER CHUNG | PHOTOGRAPHY MINDY BRIAR
THE INCREDIBLE NEW
W E s t p o r t 34
Westport Lifestyle | April 2019
l i b r a r y 1986 WITNESSED MANY SIGNIFICANT CULTURAL EVENTS, SUCH AS PHANTOM OF THE OPERA, OPRAH, ACID-WASHED JEANS AND THE CONSTRUCTION OF THE WESTPORT LIBRARY. While Phantom and Oprah have completed their runs, our beloved library and, sadly, acid-washed jeans, have not. Instead, they have overhauled themselves to appeal to a modern eco-minded and tech-savvy clientele. At least, the library has. Acidwashed jeans look the same and still baffle me. You probably know that WL is in the final throes of a multi-million-dollar renovation. While we await its completion in June 2019, here’s what you can expect: WOW. What’s the same? It’s in the same blueprint as the 1986 structure, and it’s still full of books. What’s different? Everything else. According to Paul Mazzaccaro, CAO, the new WL is more of a community center.
CONTINUED >
April 2019 | Westport Lifestyle
35
OPEN HOUSE
(CON TI N U ED)
Thoughtful details abound: Stonework at the entrance and tiles in the bathrooms
“[We want] to reach as many people as possible, whatever your passion is.” Goal: achieved.
evoke the spines of shelved books. The
of items to check out other than books,
outside staircase mimics New York City’s
such as instruments, sewing machines and
hi-line, with wide surfaces for lolling about
twin rhesus monkeys. OK, no monkeys yet.
during study breaks.
But WL wants to know what you’d like, so if
If you crave a cookie or enlightenment,
you want to borrow primates or learn, say,
Do you love the earth? It’s eco-friendly,
an expanded cafe area has an oven/stove
the fine art of tattooing in the Maker Space,
using reclaimed materials from the old
unit for cooking classes, and several rooms,
give them a shout.
library and many bio-based and recycled
or program spaces, are nearby for hosting
materials on flooring and acoustic paneling.
authors/speakers
and
their
Conference rooms generously sprinkled
audiences.
throughout are available for reserved or
“I am proud of how we achieved those
There’s an A/V room to create content and
impromptu meetings, a business center
goals with this design: repurposing materi-
record podcasts that can be streamed from
contains a copier and fax machine, and the
als, sourcing green, eco-friendly new mate-
the website or—wait for it—the Jumbotron
bathrooms have the coolest faucets in the
rials and finding opportunities to promote
on the second floor!
free world.
and support recycling and efficiencies by
Hi. Are you still with me?
our patrons and staff,” says Bill Harmer,
The dramatic among you will love the
director of WL.
large stage and green room for perform-
Finally, the Children’s, Teen and Adult book sections are bigger and better in case, like, you go to the library for a book.
Even the chairs in the children’s sec-
ers. The East Program Room behind
The new WL is an enviable resource,
tion are made from 3D printers using
the stage is big enough for 120 people
well-equipped to launch Westport into
recycled materials.
and contains cameras to record events.
the next phase of education, technol-
Would you rather be outside? Walls
There’s a recording studio/video editing/
ogy and community.
were popped out and replaced with large
post-production room with state-of-the-
“We can’t predict what the library will
windows to frame gorgeous views of the
art equipment. Actually, all of equipment is
do 10 years from now. But with this func-
river and downtown. Outside lighting is
state-of-the-art.
tionality, we will always have the ability to
increased, and globe pendants on the first
The new Maker Space includes 3D print-
floor echo the exterior lamps, enhancing the
ers and, possibly, pottery and or/wood-
library’s communing with its environment.
working. A “library of things” offers all sorts
adapt,” Paul says. If only the same could be said for acid wash.
“I AM PROUD OF HOW WE ACHIEVED THOSE GOALS WITH THIS DESIGN: REPURPOSING MATERIALS, SOURCING GREEN, ECO-FRIENDLY NEW MATERIALS AND FINDING OPPORTUNITIES TO PROMOTE AND SUPPORT RECYCLING AND EFFICIENCIES BY OUR PATRONS AND STAFF.” –BILL HARMER, DIRECTOR OF WL
36
Westport Lifestyle | April 2019
April 2019 | Westport Lifestyle
37
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Westport Lifestyle | April 2019
Westport River Gallery International Fine Art
LELIA PISSARRO | French
MONA | American
FATSE | American
One Riverside Ave, Westport 203.226.6934 WestportRiverGallery.com April 2019 | Westport Lifestyle
39
APRIL
LIFESTYLE CALENDAR
5
Austen sees the story and herself in a new light. Connecticut premiere, through April 14. ACTOfCT.org
ANYONE CAN BE ORGANIZED! Westport Public Library
Take this one-hour class and learn how to use technology to keep you organized. This class goes over popular organization apps like Evernote
EIGHTH ANNUAL MAKER FAIRE
23
Westport Public Library
Maker Faire is a gathering of curious people who enjoy learning
IN THE HEIGHTS
and who love sharing what they can do. From engineers and art-
Westport Country Playhouse
that will keep you organized across
Winner
Awards,
ists to scientists and crafters,
all devices. Registration is required.
including Best Musical! With an
of
four
Tony
Maker Faire is a venue for these
WestportLibrary.org
infectious score featuring a blend
"makers" to show hobbies, exper-
of hip-hop, salsa, merengue and
iments and projects. We call it the
5-14
soul, In the Heights invites audi-
Greatest Show (& Tell) on Earth, a
ences to celebrate life and love in
family-friendly showcase of inven-
CABARET
this uniquely American story. Music
tion, creativity and resourcefulness.
and lyrics by Lin-Manuel Miranda;
Westport.MakerFaire.com
Music Theatre of Connecticut
book by Quiara Alegria Hudes.
In here, life is beautiful... MTC's criti-
WestportPlayhouse.org
27
cally acclaimed re-imagined production of the Broadway smash returns by popular demand! Through April 14. MusicTheatreOfCT.com
24
NEW VOICES AT MTC: PAGE TO STAGE
SQUIRREL NUT ZIPPERS
12
Music Theatre of Connecticut
Fairfield Theatre Company
New Voices, the professional musi-
It's not hyperbole: SNZ might be
cal theater writers group at MTC,
the most explosive, wildly enter-
presents songs and scenes from
taining and
tal-
new musicals in development. Page
Westport Public Library
ented nine-piece retro-swing band
to Stage will introduce these writ-
Are you perplexed by what people
around. They combine elements
ers and their musicals, offering a
mean online? Does the language
of gypsy jazz with honky tonk
window into the creative process.
of texting confound you? If so, this
blues with witty swing overtones
MusicTheatreOfCT.com
one-hour class is for you. We'll go
and notes of Klezmer with over-
over common internet lingo and
the-top showmanship all the while.
general everyday slang that will
FairfieldTheatre.org
ANYONE CAN USE SLANG
extraordinarily
open up a whole new world of
28
26
41ST MINUTE MAN RACE
BEEF BUTCHERY
Race held rain or shine
Custom Meats
Arrival/Check-in Time between
14
Witness the breakdown of half a
7 am – 8 am
steer by classically trained butch-
Parking:
AUSTEN’S PRIDE
ers while enjoying some food and
Parking is located in a designated
drinks. We will go through the entire
area within the gates at Compo
animal, nose to tail, explaining the
Beach or the adjacent Soundview
language! (WL
Registration
note:
Learn
to
required. be
the
cringe-worthy parent all kids fear!) WestportLibrary.org
ACT of Connecticut
With
40
27
a
glorious
and
Compo Beach, Soundview Drive, Westport, CT
sweeping
different methods of cutting, cook-
dirt parking lot. No beach sticker
score, Austen’s Pride springs to
ing and muscle configuration while
needed; parking is free.
life as Jane Austen transforms her
discussing what makes great meat.
rough draft into a beloved clas-
(WL note: Vegans and vegetari-
sic. As the characters from Pride and
ans may wish to avoid this event.)
Prejudice come to life around her, Jane
CustomMeatsCT.com
Westport Lifestyle | April 2019
It’s time for your
spring cleaning!
this spring Dr. Hannah Ahn is a Board Certified Pediatric Dentist Voted Fairfield County’s
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CONVENIENT and COMFORTABLE, CUSTOMIZED IN-HOME Veterinary Care. April 2019 | Westport Lifestyle
41
TREND SETTER YOU DON’T HAVE TO GO FAR TO FIND THE BEST IN GREEN DESIGN
LOC A L E A RT HF R I E N DLY F I N D S
03
ARTICLE ROBIN MOYER CHUNG
02
01
04
05
01 | Stainless Steel Straws,
04
SuxStraws.com, $20 Local
Dudley-Stephens.com, $158
designers Anne Greenberg,
Two Fairfield County sisters
Ronit
Anne
custom design style-forward
stainless
silhouettes, sustainably made
Epstein
Tarshis and created
steel SUX to reduce plastic
| Fleece Turtleneck,
from recycled yarn.
waste and create "the most versatile, sustainable, reus-
05
|
Brooklyn
able, zero-waste luxe prod-
Jacket, Noorism.com, $550
uct on the market."
Westport
native
Bridge and
FIT
graduate Noor Bchala creates 0 2 | Yumi Art + Amore
unique and coveted designs,
6-piece Stackable Bowls,
handmade in small batches
YumiEcoStore.com,
from up-cycled denim.
$99.95 Westport
07
resident
Virgina P’an founded Yumi
06 | Handmade Flexible Gold
EcoSolutions
“a
Cuff, FayeKim.com, $36,000
cleaner,
to
healthier
build
world…
Award-winning jewelry designer
plant-based alternatives to
Faye Kim’s 18K gold designs
keep pollutants out of land-
feature recycled gold (don’t
fills, oceans and skies.”
worry, she has beautiful items for far less green.)
03 | Steady Day Dreaming T, BeauSoleilShop.com,
06
42
Westport Lifestyle | April 2019
$75
07
|
JacobOlmedo.com
For her local fashion line,
Olmedo’s innovative and oddly
Anne Epstein focuses on sus-
beautiful pieces are made
tainability, fair trade and labor,
with biodegradable materials.
offering consumers environ-
They cannot be washed, but
mentally responsible clothing
Olmedo replaces the lining
and accessories.
when necessary.