Fairfield, CT December 2022

HAPPY HOLIDAYS, FAIRFIELD! SHOPPING

TH E BEST H O LI DAY GI FTS O F TH E SE A SO N LI F E + C U LTU R E

A WISH L A STS A LI FETI M E F O O D + B E V E R AG E

A CU LIN ARY CHAT + H O LIDAY RECI PE

D E C E M B E R 2 022

Happy Holidays!

Thank you for your support and for trusting us to be your local real estate experts.

compass.com

#1 Compass Team in Fairfield & Southport

#10 Real Trends Medium CT Team*

Top 8% of Compass Agents Statewide, Chairman’s Circle Winner

So Proud of our new 2020 Team Members!

$65M in Sales 2021*

Information alone isn’t enough. You need preparation, market insights, a winning strategy, and a team that can execute this plan. We’re a team of agents and support staff that know how to leverage our resources and get the desired result for our clients.

Katie O’Grady & Team Licensed Real Estate Salespeople katieogrady@compass.com M: 203.913.7777 katieogradyandcompany.com

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Meet the Team

YEARS OF HELPING BUYERS AND SELLERS FIND THEIR WAY HOME

Katie O’Grady & Team is a team of real estate licensees affiliated with Compass Connecticut, LLC, a licensed real estate broker and abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws. *Source: SmartMLS | 2021 WSJ Real Trends America’s Best Real Estate Professionals List

Constitution Investment Advisory & Portfolio Management ~ The Covered Call Option Strategy Manager ~

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We focus on owning high quality, dividend paying companies and selling call options.

• see what we can do for your monthly income and yearly RMD. Call for our brochure on selling covered calls in IRA and taxable accounts.

Call Betsy: 475-269-3200 or email info@constitutioncc.com

-The information provided is for informational purposes only and does not constitute investment advice and should not be relied on as such. It should not be considered a solicitation to buy, or a solicitation of an offer to sell a security.

All information has been obtained from sources believed to be reliable, but its accuracy is not guaranteed.

- Constitution Capital LLC (“Constitution Capital” dba CIAPM: Constitution Investment Advisory & Portfolio Management) https:\\\ciapm.com – 2 Trap Falls Rd. Shelton, CT 06484 - is a registered investment advisor. Advisory services are only offered to clients or prospective clients where Constitution Capital and its representatives are properly licensed or exempt from licensure.

-Constitution Investment Advisory & Portfolio Management writes covered calls for its clients on individual stocks.

By selling covered calls clients limit their opportunity to profit from an increase in the price of a stock above the exercise price, but continue to bear the risk of a decline in the stock. While clients receive premiums for writing the call options, the price they realize from the exercise of an option could be substantially below the stock’s current market price.

With Warmest Holiday Wishes Hope, Health & Happiness

Karl Babikian 203.233.6112

William Bodine 203.610.7229

Tim Dailey 203.209.1205

Victoria Fingelly 203.610.0647

Catherine Fingelly Granneberg 203.610.0648

Nicholas Granneberg 203.581.0602

Sharon Henry Harder 203.209.1036

Rick Higgins 203.520.6778

Matt Lahey 203.767.4190

Timothy Smith 203.258.5944

Annie Klyver 203.520.9913

656 Harbor Road, Southport CT 06890 Licensed in CT & NY Higgins Group Private Brokerage is an exclusive member of Forbes Global Properties in Fairfield County, Connecticut.

Forbes® is a registered trademark used under license.

Eric Sundman 203.255.0101

Peace on Earth

Victoria Fingelly

656 Harbor Road, Southport CT 06890 Licensed in CT & NY Higgins Group Private Brokerage is an exclusive member of Forbes Global Properties in Fairfield County, Connecticut.

Forbes® is a registered trademark used under license.

December 2022 PUBLISHER S

LIFESTYLE LETTER

HAPPY EVERYTHING!

Bruce Bernstein | bruce.bernstein@citylifestyle.com Mindy Katz | mindy.katz@citylifestyle.com EDITOR

Dana Epstein Altman | dana.altman@citylifestyle.com AD DESIGNER

Matthew Endersbe LAYOUT DESIGNER

Welcome to the December issue of Fairfield Lifestyle Magazine which is dedicated to Holiday and Giving. We love everything about the holidays– the gatherings with family and friends, the traditions, and the giving.

My mother was famous for her sayings, things she would say repeatedly, phrases our family continues to say to remember her. This time of year, “It’s the thought that counts” is one that comes to mind. For us, the thought behind the gift is what is truly meaningful. It is the thought you put into giving that conveys that your recipient is appreciated and matters.

We know you’ll enjoy reading about the Make a Wish Foundation whose gifts of experiences to critically ill children can truly change lives.

If shopping for presents is on your to-do list, it’s no secret that Fairfield is full of beautiful stores full of possibilities for gift giving. If you need some inspiration, head over to local expert, Ria Rueda’s, curated choices for our favorite presents in and around town.

There are so many ways to give of ourselves and even the simplest among them can help brighten someone’s day. See you next year!

WISHING A HAPPY & HEALTHY HOLIDAY SEASON TO ALL!

Eva Tucker CONTR IBUTING PHOTOGR APHER S

Abby Cole, Heidi Curran CONTR IBUTING WR ITER

Robin Moyer Chung

Corporate Team CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Randy Radosevich

B R U C E B E R N S T E I N & M I N DY K AT Z , P U B L I S H E R S @FAIRFIELDLIFEST YLEMAGA ZINE

DIRECTOR OF SOCIAL MEDIA Mindy Hargesheimer ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson AD MANAGER Chad Jensen WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell

Learn how to start your own publication at: citylifestyle.com//franchise

Scan QR code to visit our Instagram CIT YLIFEST YLE.COM/FAIRFIELD |

Proverbs 3:5-6 Fairfield Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Fairfield area’s 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 Fairfield Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the

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L I F E ST Y LE LE T T E R

accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

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DECEMBER 2022

inside the issue The Holiday & Giving Issue

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F E ATU R E D

D E PA RTM E NTS

18 A Wish Lasts a Lifetime

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Lifestyle Letter

10

City Scene

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Business Monthly

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Giving Back

LI FE + C U LT U R E

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Trend Setter

S HO PPI NG

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Culinary Creations

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Financial Buzz

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Inspired By

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Events

The Story of Jake Beneski, a Make A Wish Kid

22 The Best Holiday Gifts of the Season!

Curated by Local Expert, Ria Rueda & Creator of The Buzz CT

26 A Culinary Chat with Private Chef Jason Bellaby Don’t Miss Chef Jason’s Autumn Squash Salad Recipe!

O N T H E C OV E R

Photography: Heidi Curran 8

FO O D + B E V E R AG E

FI NA NC E + LEGA L SE RV IC E S

LI FE + C U LT U R E

DECEMBER 2022

city scene

Where neighbors can see and be seen.

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FLM Celebrates the Taste of Fairfield at the Delamar in Southport 1: Dino Sakakini of Layla’s 2: Dominick Giresi of Italian Kitchen 3: The festive crowd at Taste of Fairfield! 4: Ben Lavigne of Flutes & Foam 5: Bruce Bernstein of FLM with Jessica McCormack and Amber Smith of Fairfield Moms. 6: Amy O’Shea & Jennifer Scheffer of J.B. Percival 7: Bridget Schulten of Fifth State Distillery

Photography by Abby Cole

CONTINUED >

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C I T Y SC E N E

A HOM E for the H O LIDAYS 1111 Sasco Hill Road offered at $5,999,990 This private compound offers a lifestyle for any time of year, but particularly shines during the holiday season. Views of the water from every room, spacious yet cozy – 1111 Sasco Hill Road is a magnificent place to bring your family together.

If you’re interested in this exclusive property, please reach out to us directly. Nobody knows the area like Coldwell Banker’s #1 Small Team in Fairfield County. Wishing you and yours a safe and happy holiday season!

203-625-1025 CINDYRANEY.COM @ C IN DYRANEYANDTEAM

SCA N TO VIEW P ROP E RTY VIDEO

CIT Y SCENE CONTINUED

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ConnectFairfield hosts 70s Dance Party FunRaiser at Park City Music Hall 8: The crowd enjoying live music 9: Rick & Michelle Torres of Harborview Market & Park City Music Hall 10: Lachers Reese 11: Chris Clarke, Jeff Kuryluk, Jim Schumacher 12: Greg & Sherri Rivera, CT Cocktail Hunters, Debbi O’Keefe, ConnectFairfield 13: Emily Wiegert of SET, Kayla Krauss, and Lanie Sastram of SET 14: DJ Edgewood

Photography by Alex Torres

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C I T Y SC E N E

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15-17: Near & Far Aid Golf Classic at Country Club of Fairfield Sponsored by Katie O’Grady & Team at Compass 18-20: Derby Day at Pequot Library Southport Sponsored by Katie O’Grady & Team at Compass 15: Michael Langer, Alex Larson, Ben Post, George Smith 16: Ben and Hayle Post 17: Katie O’Grady, Ann Roach, Celie Campbell, Barbara Voytas 18: Kate LaVigne of Flute & Foam, Katie O’Grady & Leslie Stetter of Katie O’Grady & Team 19: Celie Campbell and Barbara Voytas 20: David Stirling, Leslie Stetter, Katie O’Grady, Arthur Mirante, Eloise Berowsky

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CIT Y SCENE CONTINUED

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All Brands on Deck at MD Solar Sciences celebrating partnerships between many different companies 21: Sade Strehlke, Melissa Duren Conner, Jane Green, Marisa MacLean 22: Ann Melhuish , Allison Cotaling, Michelle Yacovelli, Marie-Laure Kugel, George Venizelos, MD of Investments at Wells Fargo Advisors 23: Brian Giesecke, Dr. Annette Czernik of DermMedical, Marisa MacLean and Saul Zion of Zion Physical Therapy 24: Renee Plato, Carey Weber, David Green, Doug Weber 25: Katie Lang & Lori Jones of Quick Center for the Arts with Bruce Bernstein of FLM. 26: Jennifer Bickerton and Joyce Schwartz 27: George Venizelos, MD, Peter Van Heerden, Silvia Durno, Jason Mudd, Bruce Bernstein

Photography by Jennifer C. Prat

Want to be seen in the magazine?

Tag your Instagram photos with @fairfieldlifestylemagazine

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C I T Y SC E N E

NOW OPEN! LIMITED SPOTS REMAIN.

CALL US FOR A TOUR TODAY! Now Enrolling Children 6 Weeks to 5 Years (203) 331-8566 - Fairfield@tlechildcare.com thelearningexperience.com/center/fairfield

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DECEMBER 2022

business monthly A round-up of exciting news from local businesses.

Rebecca Stern Fine Art Artist, Rebecca Stern, graduated with honors from Lesley University College of Art and Design. Her work has been shown in many private collections and exhibitions nationwide.

Rebecca uses acrylic paint, collage, and drawing materials for her abstract work and helps the community find artwork that speaks to their space and taste while adding beauty to their home. Rebecca welcomes collectors into her Fairfield studio for in-person viewings and to see her process. rebeccasternfineart.com

Want to be featured?

Get in touch by heading over to our landing page to connect: CityLifestyle.com/Fairfield

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B USIN E SS M ON T H LY

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A Wish Lasts a L ifetime ARTICLE BY ROBIN MOYER CHUNG

The Story of Jake Beneski, a Make A Wish Kid

When Jake Beneski, 21, was young, he and two of his three siblings - all brothers - were “Make A Wish kids.” The experience changed his life. He now works for Make A Wish Connecticut (MAW). Westport Lifestyle is honored to tell his story.

At six weeks old, Jake and his twin brother, Seamus, had suffered a string of ear infections, sinus infections, and pneumonia. Both were diagnosed with Common Variable Immunodeficiency (CVID) and Von Willebrand disease (VWD).

CVID renders a person’s immune cells incapable of creating the antibodies necessary to protect the body from infection, primarily in the upper airways. Individuals with WVD lack the von Willebrand factor which enables blood to form clots, therefore they bleed more easily than those with the factor. Though it’s rarely life-threatening (uncontrollable bleeding) it can cause anemia and pain.

The boys required medicine every four weeks “or they would die.” Each infusion took 36 hours,* administered at the Connecticut Children’s Medical Center. Unfortunately, the frequent infections forced their parents to bring them far more often.

Meanwhile, Jake’s mother became pregnant and had the baby tested in utero. The test came back positive and soon the twins had a younger brother, Eamon, with CVID.

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G IV IN G BAC K | L IFE + CULTURE

Life was hard. They had to quarantine every flu season and spent numerous other days in the hospital. “I was ostracized,” he recalls. “Kids were always saying ‘He’s sick all the time but he looks healthy.’” Whenever he tried to explain his story it “felt like I was backed into a corner” and he had to defend himself.

A Child Life Specialist at the hospital recommended the boys to MAW. The boys thought “Great!” but the parents were terrified - what does this mean for their children?

MAW was inaccurately known for granting wishes to only terminally ill children. Factually, they grant to critically ill children who often survive to adulthood.

When the parents conceded, they were welcomed into the MAW family. “From that moment on,” says Jake, “I knew we were part of something greater.”

Eamon wished to stay at the Sponge Bob hotel. A few years later, when Seamus was eight (in 2007) he saw a rainfall shower on the Travel Channel and thought, “Wherever that is, I want to go.” So MAW packed up the family and shipped them to Hawaii for a week.

“We were so happy when we traveled,” Jake recalls.

“Without our MAW trips I wouldn’t remember anything about my childhood. Because why would I?” His mother took a sick child to the hospital 250-300 days a year. Most days were spent wearing gowns, hooked up to IVs.

Jake Beneski

The year after Hawaii, Jake wished to meet the cast of The Suite Life with Zack and Cody.

“They were twins, I was a twin,” Jake smiles.

MAW spirited them to Hollywood where they viewed the taping of the show and met the cast. But the best part? “A limo picks you up,” he recalls “I knew it was coming and I thought ‘This one’s for me!’”

To this day, Jake feels the excitement of a limo ride, “When kids pull up in limos it takes me back to the joy I felt.”

In 2010, when Jake was 10, MAW hosted its annual fundraiser and invited the Beneski family to be their “Gala Family.” As gala ambassadors, the boys were asked to speak to the donors during the party. “You go onstage in a room filled with people in tuxedos, wine glasses, fancy decoration, and they’re listening to you. You’re not saying anything ground-breaking, just your life experience. But your experience will help the next kid.”

He was finally listened to without judgement.

He credits this gala as the best memory of his childhood, gifting him life-changing confidence when he realized his life mattered and people cared. It was then he vowed to work at MAW when he grew up.

But life goes on.

Entering middle school, Jake is partially deaf having had 75 ear infections before his second birthday. He’s hitting adolescence, doesn’t fit in with his peers, and has acne. For a pimply sick kid, each day introduces a new struggle. He and his brothers weren’t getting support. Schools treated them as though they were perfectly fine because, shoot, they looked “normal” so why give them an extra edge? Jake’s grades dropped and he couldn’t keep up with the work from missing so many classes.

The stress and indignation of not being acknowledged overwhelmed Jake and he dropped out of school. “I had a lot of anger,” he admits.

His parents understood. But they also knew the situation wouldn’t improve for him - or anyone - if he didn’t speak up. “Listen, you’re right,” Jake’s parents told him. “They don’t

Video still from a frequent hospital visit.

Seamus, Jake, Eamon, Chancey, (front row) with the cast of "Zack and Cody."

CONTINUED >

D ECEMBER 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / FA I R F I E L D

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Taking a helicopter ride in Hawaii, Seamus' wish.

understand it. You can drop out or you can go in and say ‘This is what you need to do for kids like me’ and be part of the solution.”

Speaking up as a misunderstood minority takes enormous courage; Jake, an infirm teenager, wasn’t up to the challenge.

Then he considered his brothers and the other kids who’d have the same problems. He thought of the gala and how the adults listened when he spoke. He could do this.

So he returned to school. He spoke up to the administration and helped them create online classes for kids who could’t attend in person. He began teaching a health class.

He created what kids like him would need and, serendipitously, what every kid would need during the pandemic.

He graduated from high school in 2018.

Last September, MAW hired Jake as their Wish Journey Coordinator. He runs their alumnae program and all events for Wish families, past and present. Jake nods, “It’s great to come full circle.”

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G IV IN G BAC K | L IFE + CULTURE

Yet, although MAW creates miracles, it’s not all limos and sunshine.

“I’ve seen things that are upsetting. We’ve seen kids pass and that’s very difficult,” he says soberly. “I’ve heard it so much that my job is too sad. I tell them, do we run from it or do we change it? We get to be the light that the families need.”

And if he could have any wish right now?

“My wish is corny,” he smiles. “I want everyone to experience the power of a wish. Not necessarily get a wish - you can donate one or volunteer.”

Then he adds, “A wish isn’t a one time thing, it transforms lives.”

And in so many ways, it saves them.

Wish.org/CT *A few years later the medicine could be infused at home, taking three hours.

THE BEST HOLIDAY GIFTS OF THE SEASON! Curated by Local Expert, Ria Rueda & Creator of The Buzz CT ARTICLE BY DANA EPSTEIN ALTMAN | PHOTOGRAPHY BY HEIDI CURRAN 1.

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WHO: Ria Rueda

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WHAT: Creator of The Buzz CT WHERE: @thebuzzct 8.

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1. Gozney Wood Fire Oven,@aitoroappliance 2. Stems & Co candle, @no299blog 3. Floraco hand and dish soap, @hellofloraco 4. Permanent 14K bracelets by The Spark Bar, @rhubarbjewelry 5. Cutting board and cheese knives, @no299blog 6. Handpainted pottery by Jessica Howard Ceramics @jessicahowardceramics 7. Tide Hill Heron Throw Blanket, @tidehillhome 8. Instant filtered boiling, chilled and sparkling water on tap by Zip Water, @aitoroappliance 9. Wool knit sweater vest by Runo, @runo.store 10. The Pampered Pup Patisserie Donuts for Dogs, @the.pampered.pup.patisserie

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11. Edible Chocolate Box & Chocolates, @be_chocolat_usa 12. Handcrafted beaded necklace, @amanda_cooley_designs 13. Sea Salt Baking Company, @seasaltbakingco 14. Arbike assorted spirits, @harryswine 15. Woopa personalized cashmere sweater, @woopa_handstitch 16. “Escape” by Jessica Ryan Fine Art Photography @gimletstyle 17. Winter Milk Glass Succulent Arrangement, @imaginariumsbyelissa 18. The Coastal Table Cookbook, @coppsislandoysters 19. Buddha Statue, @outdoordesignct 20. Artisaanal Housemade Panettone, @fattoamanobreads 21. Driftwood Hanging Macrame @bespokemacrame

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22. Smoke & Slate Knit Kit, @smokeandslate 23. Pasta Making Class @vita_pasta_lab 24. Dmarxx Hideout Mini Handbag, @dmarxxdesign 25. Rainbow Challah & Buttercream Set, @disheveleddiva 26. Pearl Street Swimwear, @pearlstreetswim 27. Rose Carmine Sweater, @penfieldcollective 28. Fine and fun jewelry available at Allison Daniel Designs at Up North, @Allisondanield, @upnorthct 29. Oversize Ceramic Cup & Saucer, @claystoryct 30. Night Meditation Journal & Bath Salts, @thebeehivefairfield 31. Portrait Photo Session by Heidi Curran, @heidicurran 32. Snowflake Votives, @cocoandcompanyllc

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T R E N D SE T T E R | SHOPPI NG

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Autumn Squash Salad with Raisin Agrodolce

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C ULIN A RY C R E AT ION | FOOD + BE VE RAGE

A Culinary Chat with Private Chef Jason Bellaby DON’T MISS CHEF JASON’S AUTUMN SQUASH SALAD RECIPE! ARTICLE BY DANA EPSTEIN ALTMAN PHOTOGRAPHY BY HEIDI CURRAN

WHERE DID YOU BEGIN YOUR CAREER? I started working at Scarsdale Golf Club as a prep cook. However, I owe a lot of my foundational knowledge to Abigail Kirsch.

I was a very young line cook who worked my way up to sous chef. That’s where I built my skills in off-premise catering. You’d be surprised what you can create in an open event space without a proper kitchen.

WHAT MADE YOU TRANSITION TO WORKING AS A PRIVATE CHEF? The covid pandemic. I have three daughters and one of them is immunocompromised. I had to be careful who I was exposing myself to and it was safer to cook solo. I also found that clients were not able to celebrate special events in restaurants during the pandemic. There was a whole new clientele who wanted to dine comfortably and safely in their own homes. I do miss collaborating with a big team, but I truly enjoy working for myself and creating my own menus.

WHAT ARE THE DIFFERENT SERVICES YOU PROVIDE? My specialty is plated dinner parties for 2-12 guests however I also provide catering for larger parties, often with passed hors d’oeuvres or buffet style. I can provide as much or as little support

for a party as needed; my team is capable of setting up, serving, and cleaning up. We leave your house as we found it, often with leftovers packed in the fridge!

I assist with attaining party supply rentals and liaising with other contractors as needed and try to take as much off the host’s plate as possible so he or she can actually enjoy their party.

FAVORITE THING ABOUT BEING A CHEF? I truly love food! I am always researching and developing new recipes. I love learning about where ingredients come from and how a dish originated. There will always be the classics, but food also evolves and there is always something new to learn.

FAVORITE FOOD TO MAKE? Duck Confit! More specifically, a dish from the south of France, cassoulet.

FAVORITE FOOD TO EAT? Cheeseburgers! Nothing fancy. Although the Black Label Burger from Minetta Tavern is darn tasty.

CHEF JASON’S DELICIOUS HOLIDAY DISH Autumn Squash Salad with Raisin Agrodolce This holiday season, don’t miss this mouthwatering dish—perfect as a start to a celebratory meal or on its own as a vegetarian entrée!

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AUTUMN SQUASH SALAD WITH RAISIN AGRODOLCE | SERVES 4-6 FOR THE SQUASH: • • • •

1 each delicata squash, halved lengthwise, seeds removed, cut into one-inch crescents 1 each small butternut squash, peeled, halved lengthwise, seeds removed, cut into one-inch crescents 2 tablespoons brown butter, melted 1 teaspoon coarse kosher salt

METHOD:

Preheat the oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit. In a small pot, heat the butter over medium-low heat. When the butter begins to foam, brown, and releases a nutty aroma remove it from the heat and set aside to cool. In a large bowl toss the squash, melted brown butter and salt. Distribute the squash in one even layer on a sheet pan. It is very important to not crowd the pan, otherwise, the squash will not properly caramelize. Use a second sheet pan if needed. Roast for 25-35 minutes, turning the squash at the halfway mark. Remove from the oven and set aside to cool. The squash should be fork-tender.

FOR THE RAISIN AGRODOLCE: • • • • • • • • • •

¼ cup golden raisins ¼ cup walnuts, coarsely chopped 2 tablespoons water 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar 5 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil 3 tablespoons maple syrup ½ teaspoon red chili flakes ¼ cup plus 2 tablespoons flat leaf parsley, chopped Zest from 1 orange or lemon

METHOD:

Chef Jason Bellaby

In a small pot, bring vinegar and water to a boil. Once a boil has been reached add the raisins to the pot. There should be enough liquid to cover the raisins. Set aside to cool. In another small pot combine the olive oil and walnuts. Over a low heat cook the walnuts until lightly toasted stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking.

Set aside to cool. In a medium bowl combine the rest of the ingredients. To the bowl, add the raisins along with any liquid in the pot.

Next add the oil along with the walnuts. Give everything a good stir.

It is best to make this one day in advance but not necessary, allowing flavors to develop. Store in an airtight container and refrigerate.

FOR SERVING: • • • • •

1 each green apple, medium dice 1 shallot, peeled, sliced into thin rings 2 tablespoon Parmesan, grated on a micro plane or small holes on a box grater 1 cup radicchio, core removed, sliced into thin ribbons 4 cups baby arugula, kale or a combination of the two

METHOD:

Except for the raisin agrodolce, combine all the ingredients in a bowl.

Season with salt and black pepper. Lightly toss. Pieces of squash may break apart. That is expected, creating a creamy texture in the salad.

Gently lay out the salad in a shallow bowl. Lightly warm the agrodolce in a pot or microwave. Be sure to use a microwave safe container. Stir the condiment and spoon over the salad to enjoy. Add smoked ham or prosciutto for additional goodness. Other salty cheeses such as gorgonzola or pecorino may be substituted. chefJasonBellaby.com

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C ULIN A RY C R E AT ION | FOOD + BE VE RAGE

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INVESTMENT RELATIONS 101

Anthony Bavedas, CFP, President & Senior Portfolio Manager of Constitution Investment Advisory & Portfolio Management

With Anthony Bavedas, CFP, President & Senior Portfolio Manager of Constitution Investment Advisory & Portfolio Management ARTICLE BY DANA EPSTEIN ALTMAN | PHOTOGRAPHY BY ABBY COLE PHOTOGRAPHY

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F IN A N CIA L BU Z Z | FIN ANCE + LE GAL S E RVI CE S

CONGRATULATIONS ON CELEBRATING 55 YEARS IN BUSINESS! CAN YOU TELL US ABOUT THE FINANCIAL SERVICES CIAPM PROVIDES? I’ve been a Certified Financial Planner since 1979 (the first in the history of Smith Barney). However, we are a portfolio management firm because that is truly what I enjoy doing. We have a conservative investment philosophy, and we invest in well-established large capitalization companies for our clients. On a long-term basis, we try to be competitive with the S&P 500. Until very recently we have not owned much in the bond market.

WHAT IS THE OVERALL MISSION OF CIAPM? To perform as well as we possibly can for our clients which means educating them, so they not only know what they own but why they own the investments they have. We never buy an in-house proprietary product (we don’t have any) for any client or any structured product investment. We also don’t allow the use of any leverage like a margin account.

WHAT MAKES CIAPM DIFFERENT FROM OTHER FINANCIAL PLANNING FIRMS? We don’t consider our firm to be a financial planning firm but rather a portfolio management firm that manages accounts for a highly competitive flat fee. Most firms charge fees in advance on a quarterly basis, our quarterly fees are billed in arrears. We also put a lot of effort into stock selection where we analyze revenue growth, dividend payout ratio, a stock’s short interest, and many other statistics. We sell covered calls on our

clients’ stock positions to obtain extra income and shield against downside risk. This is only done by a small percentage of portfolio managers and financial planning firms because it involves a significant amount of extra work. We do it because we think it is a good long-term strategy that we enjoy offering.

WHAT IS CIAPM’S INVESTMENT PHILOSOPHY? We are conservative with our clients and generally don’t try to hit home runs in our stock selections.

We believe when you tone down your objectives in choosing stocks your performance increases. In fact, sometimes when you are simply trying to hit a single you will hit the ball out of the park.

WHAT SHOULD PEOPLE KNOW BEFORE HIRING A FINANCIAL ADVISOR? Make sure your advisor has a record of complete honesty. One of the many ways to check this is to Google “Finra Broker Check”. Be sure to find out the total fee and if there are any hidden fees. Also, make sure you know in advance which advisor in the hired firm is managing your assets and if that advisor is farming it out to someone else, mutual funds or exchange-traded funds.

WHAT’S THE MOST IMPORTANT PIECE OF INFORMATION FOR YOUR CLIENTS TO KNOW? That we work very hard and do our very best for them.

We do a lot of research on other firms’ research. We have many intelligent, educated, professional clients and a few institutions who have been with us—managing their money—for 30, 40, and 50-plus years.

CONTINUED >

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“We also put a lot of effort into stock selection where we analyze revenue growth, dividend payout ratio, a stock’s short interest, and many other statistics”

WHAT ARE SOME LOCAL CHARITABLE ORGANIZATIONS CIAPM IS INVOLVED WITH TO HELP SUPPORT THE COMMUNITY? I have supported the Bridgeport Rescue Mission, the National Children’s Cancer Society, and a number of other charities. We also support the New York Society for Prevention of Cruelty to children where my cousin, Mary Pulido, PhD, is the Executive Director. It is the world’s first child protective agency (founded in 1874) offering support for high-risk and abused children as well as parental skills classes.

DO YOU INVEST IN ANY BITCOIN FOR YOUR CLIENTS? No, because we do not consider bitcoin an investment—putting money in bitcoin is like putting money into a crap game. We prefer solid companies with revenue, earnings, and dividends that are profitable enough to have the financial ability to buy back their own stock. An investor cannot obtain any of this when buying bitcoin.

AS 2022 COMES TO AN END, CAN YOU SHARE SOME HELPFUL TIPS FOR PEOPLE WITH IRA’S? People with IRA’s should thoroughly check out the benefits of selling covered calls on their stock positions. I have written a

34

F IN A N CIA L BU Z Z | FIN ANCE + LE GAL S E RVI CE S

brochure on the advantages of selling covered calls in IRA accounts as well as taxable accounts. It is available to anyone. We have been doing it for many years and it especially helps IRA clients who have to take a required minimum distribution from their account each year because they are at least 72 ½ years of age. The call option premium money they receive plus their dividends help pay their RMD so that they don’t have to take as much principal from their account each year by selling stock. Mark Cussen wrote a good piece on this strategy in Ivestopedia which can be googled easily. The covered call strategy, plus good and lucky stock selection, has helped me to grow my personal IRA very substantially over many years.

ARE THERE ANY PARTICULAR STOCKS YOU LIKE AT THIS TIME? Yes! One we like a lot is Microsoft. It has a very strong balance sheet and is number one in software and number two in its fast-growing cloud business. Another good one is Pepsico.

Again, a strong balance sheet and they are number two in beverages worldwide and number two in snack foods worldwide. I personally own stocks in both of these companies. ciapm.com

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The City Lifestyle

Giving Campaign Now in its third year, the City Lifestyle Giving Campaign will give away $300,000 this holiday season to help individual community members who would benefit from a helping hand during their time of need. But they need YOUR HELP to make it happen! Maybe you know of a single parent struggling to provide, an elderly person who has experienced loss, a child enduring a health issue, a co-worker suffering a sudden, unexpected tragedy or a neighbor with a financial hardship who has fallen between the cracks of getting assistance. Chances are you know someone with a specific need—even if nobody else does.

To preserve and protect the dignity of every recipient, the City Lifestyle Giving Campaign is completely confidential. No identities will be revealed or publicized in ANY way. (Even those who nominate others may remain anonymous if they choose.)

Last year, City Lifestyle was able to give to more than 70 recipients all over the country by sending checks in the mail through New Year’s Eve. (This year, the goal is to double that number with checks ranging in amount up to $3,000 each.)

With nominations flooding in from community members and leaders such as judges, police officers, teachers, nurses, social workers, mentors and readers like you, we were able to reach people who might otherwise go unnoticed.

“We believe in giving back and serving the communities where we live in a real and tangible way,” says Steven Schowengerdt, CEO and founder of City Lifestyle. “This Giving Campaign is all about personally impacting the lives of people we know with an unexpected check in the mail just to say that someone thought of them this holiday season.”

Together with Matthew Perry, Chief Sales Officer, Steven adds that the outpouring and gratitude from the recipients was overwhelming and affirmed that this is a tradition they want to continue.

“We believe God has blessed our company with continued success,” Matthew adds, “so we in turn want to be a blessing to others.”

City Lifestyle has also enacted an internal giving program whereby every employee in the company receives $100 to give away to someone in the community. “The idea is to encourage our employees to keep doing it on their own,” Steven says. “Taking care of one another and blessing others is so rewarding that it perpetuates a cycle of giving. It’s extremely important to me as a person and as a company to foster that culture of generosity.”

36

I NSP IR E D BY | L IFE + CULTURE

“This Giving Campaign is all about personally impacting the lives of people we know with an unexpected check in the mail just to say that someone thought of them this holiday season.”

W here ha s t he c a mpa ig n g i f t e d?

Scan Code to

Nominate between Dec. 1 – 15, 2022

Follow @citylifestyle on Instagram for reminders!

To submit a nomination, follow @citylifestyle on Instagram and fill out the form found in the bio link.

All entries will be read, and because this is not a raffle, there is no need to nominate someone more than once.

The amount given to each recipient will be based on need.

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DECEMBER 2022

events A curated selection of the most intriguing upcoming events in our area.

DE C E M BE R 3 RD

Chris Lengyel: Faster Than The Eye Kids Comedy Magic Show

BIJ OU THEATRE CT, 275 FAIR F I E L D AV E , B R I DG E P O RT | 6 :0 0 P M Chris Lengyel is a one-of-a-kind magician and illusionist who has performed his show "Faster Than The Eye" (formerly Nothing Up My Sleeves) at venues all over the east coast. Don't miss this "fun for the whole family" show! bijoutheatrect.net DE C E M BE R 6T H

Meditation and Mindfulness

FAIRFIELD UNIVERSITY ART MUSEUM, BELLARMINE HALL GALLERIES, 200 BARLOW ROAD | 4:30 PM Join Jackie DeLise, master-certified meditation and mindfulness teacher and stress management expert, for a guided meditation class in our Bellarmine Hall Galleries. No prior experience is necessary as you learn how to cultivate inner calm and clarity. All are welcome! thewelleryllc.com/ D EC E M BE R 1 0 T H

Chamber Singers of the Fairfield County Children's Choir Holiday Concert

ST. THOMAS AQUIN AS PAR IS H C H UR C H , 1 7 1 9 P O ST R OA D, FA I R F I E L D, | 7 :0 0 P M The public is invited to this holiday concert featuring the Chamber Singers of the FCCC. This concert has become a favorite destination for all of those who love choral music. Legendary Choral Conductor Jon Noyes brings traditional vocal favorites from around the world to this concert featuring the most advanced choristers from the FCCC. stthomasfairfield.com CONTINUED >

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EVE N TS

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FAIRFIELD COUNTY'S LUXURY BALLOON STYLISTS & EVENT DESIGN TRENDY . CREATIVE . EXTRAVAGANT

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EVENTS CONTINUED

DECEMBER 14 TH

The Metropolitan Opera: HD Live The Hours (Puts)

Q UI C K C E NT E R F O R T H E A RTS | 6 :0 0 P M The world-premiere of Kevin Puts’s The Hours, adapted from Michael Cunningham’s acclaimed novel, which also served as the inspiration for the Oscar-winning film, arrives in cinemas this December. In her highly anticipated return to the Met, soprano Renée Fleming joins soprano Kelli O’Hara and mezzo-soprano Joyce DiDonato to portray three women from different eras who grapple with their inner demons and their roles in society.

DECEMBER 16TH

Darren Criss - A Very Darren Crissmas

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EVE N TS

T H E R I DG E F I E L D P L AYH O US E | 8 :0 0 P M Emmy and Golden Globe-winning actor, singer, and Glee favorite, Darren Criss, will make his Ridgefield Playhouse debut to celebrate the holidays! Since starring in his breakout role on Glee, Criss has gone on to star on the screen and stage. Don’t miss the chance to celebrate the season with songs from his holiday album A Very Darren Crissmas!

DECEMBER 29 TH

Stephen Kellogg

FA I R F I E L D T H E AT E R C O MPA NY | 7 :0 0 P M Northampton's finest folk rocker, Stephen Kellogg, returns to perform solo on StageOne. Reared on Jim Croce and Cat Stevens, Kellogg writes an exciting blend of Americana, rock and roll, and even a bit of pop.

Want to be featured?

Get in touch by heading over to our landing page to connect: CityLifestyle.com/Fairfield

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