Westport , CT February 2020

FEBRUARY 2020

Westport-Lifestyle.com

Art is Everywhere HOLY XOLI, THIS CHICK CAN KNIT! YOZOSTUDIO: LETTERPRESS AND LIFESTYLE FOUR OF OUR FAVORITE PAINTERS EDIBLE ART AT CHEZ 180

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LIFESTYLE LETTER

FEBRUARY 2020 PUBLISHER

Marisa MacLean | marisa.maclean@lifestylepubs.com EDITOR

Robin Moyer Chung | robin.chung@lifestylepubs.com AD DESIGNER

Kaylee Mitchell

Art is everywhere!

WHEN YOU THINK OF THE WORD “MAKER,” WHAT COMES TO MIND?

LAYOUT DESIGNER

Emily Stout CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Robin Moyer Chung, Jen Berniker CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

A quick Google search offers some ideas: an artist, a constructor, a builder, a producer, a designer, an architect, but, in its simplest terms, a person that makes or

Mindy Briar, Maya Porrino, Marina Derman, Diane Johnson, Tadd Myers

produces something.

In this month’s issue, you’ll be immersed in articles that focus on just that: makers— people who produce things. You’ll see it in the art, food and artisan goods throughout both these pages and our community.

But this concept of makers is more than just the people who create unique works of art, beautiful (and tasty) cuisine, handcrafted jewelry, textiles or furniture, or goods you can find throughout local boutiques or on locally-maintained Etsy pages.

CORPORATE TEAM CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry

It’s also about a movement of people and ideas—hobbyists, experts and the in-between—who form a community that works together and encourages each other to create new products, dream up innovative ideas and produce things unique to the Westport material landscape.

CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson AD MANAGER Chad Jensen REGIONAL SALES DIRECTOR Eric Williams WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell

With the full support of a community behind you, stay creative—and curious—Westport.

We can’t wait to see what you make next!

Marisa MacLean, Publisher ARIZONA | CALIFORNIA | COLORADO | CONNECTICUT | FLORIDA | GEORGIA IDAHO | ILLINOIS | KANSAS | MARYLAND | MASSACHUSETTS | MICHIGAN MINNESOTA | MISSOURI | MONTANA | NEVADA | NEW JERSEY | NEW YORK NORTH CAROLINA | OHIO | OKLAHOMA | OREGON | PENNSYLVANIA SOUTH CAROLINA | TENNESSEE | TEXAS | VIRGINIA | WASHINGTON

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ON THE COVER Yayoi Kusama's 'Where the Lights in My Heart Go' Past Exhibit Experience at MoCA Westport.

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Westport Lifestyle | February 2020

Westport-Lifestyle.com

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.

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INSIDE THE ISSUE FEBRUARY 2020

FEATURES 20 Holy Xoli, This Chick Can Knit!

Designer and Knitter of Gorgeous Sweaters and More

28 Wall Flowers Paintings from Four of Our Favorite Artists

40 Beautiful, Delicious and Extraordinary Chez 180 Patisserie and Experience Is Much More than Sandwiches and Sweets

20 40

46 Letterpress and Lifestyle YozoStudio: Designing Just About Everything

46

28

DEPARTMENTS 10

Lifestyle Letter

14

Good Times

18

Around Town

20 Trend Setter 24 City Scene 40 Culinary Creations 46 Locally Owned 52 Giving Back 56 Lifestyle Calendar 58 Local’s Choice

the art of organization Visit our showroom: 100 Wooster Street, Bethel, CT 06801

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GOOD TIMES 1.

2.

3.

Savvy + Grace Fundraiser for Shatterproof Over 80 Westporters came to Main Street on a rainy evening for Savvy+Grace’s fundraiser to benefit ShatterProof, an organization helping to end the stigma and devastation caused by addiction. A warm, beautiful 26 foot tent helped house all who gathered to enjoy light bites, drinks, raffles and shopping. A percentage of all sales went to Shatterproof.

4.

5.

1. Jim Marpe, Owner of Savvy + Grace Annette Norton, Miggs Burroughs | 2. Kitt Shapiro and Jill Denowitz | 3. Kate Tarrant enjoying a coat. | 4.

Mar Jennings and Barbara Mathias | 5. Jen Tooker, Westport Lifestyle Publisher Marisa Maclean, Westport Lifestyle Editor Robin Moyer Chung

1.

2.

3.

The Artists Collective of Westport Holiday Exhibit The Artists Collective of Westport presented a record breaking reception for their holiday exhibit in the Gallery at the Westport Playhouse.

It also celebrated the first anniversary of the Collective's partnership with the Playhouse, with an estimated 400 people attending this lively event promoting cultural enrichment and community engagement in Westport through the arts. www.artistscollectiveofwestport.org.

4.

5.

6.

1. Attendees admiring a few of the 115 pieces of 12" x 12” art in the show. | 2. Overview of the festivities in the Gallery at the Westport Playhouse. | 3. Artist Sholeh Janati admiring a piece of art, upper right, by Norm Siegel. | 4. Artist and singer Melissa Newman speaking with fellow artist Vincent Calenzo. | 5. A little boy with his mom and sister pointing to a pop art piece by Sherri Wolfgang. | 6. Doug Mac Leod looking at a life-sized cutout of Andy Cohen.

14

Westport Lifestyle | February 2020

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GOOD TIMES

WHIPLASH for The Aldrich Contemporary Art Museum

3.

Whiplash 2019, a fashion show fundraiser for The Aldrich Contemporary Art Museum, was held on October 17th and raised nearly $12,000 for the museum. Local models took to the catwalk featuring looks from WEST boutique and hair and makeup by Whip Salon.

1.

2.

1. Kitt Shapiro of WEST | 2. The models and crew at WHIPLASH! | 3. Heather Bauer walks the runway.

Mix-It-Up Tour

3.

Guests mixed it up and rocked out in the newly transformed Westport Library! Westport’s own WAZA, one of the hottest cover bands around and headed by resident Marty Jaramillo, cranked out tunes from artists like The Rolling Stones, Bon Jovi, Journey, and more. Also featured was a performance by American Idol finalist Drew Angus and rock tunes by DJ Mo.

1.

2.

1. WAZA making waves. | 2. Organizer Irene Penny. | 3. American Idol finalist, Drew Angus.

16

Westport Lifestyle | February 2020

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AROUND TOWN

21ST ANNUAL CROSSWORD PUZZLE CONTEST WITH WILL SHORTZ

awareness about Stage 4 breast cancer research.

On Saturday, February 4 from 1 p.m.-4 p.m., join

This is the culmination of a 6-month long town

the Westport Library for its 21st annual crossword

wide campaign raising research funds for a disease

contest with New York Times Puzzle Editor/cross-

that impacts us all -- metastatic breast cancer. All

word guru Will Shortz. Shortz will supply unpub-

proceeds from the campaign benefit AWARE’s

lished NYT puzzles for the event and will also puz-

2019-2020 partner The Cancer Couch Foundation;

zle the puzzlers with some word games.

a nonprofit dedicated to raising funds towards

Space is limited. Contact Jennifer Keller at

research for a cure for Stage 4. Date and location

jkeller@westportlibrary.org

TBA. For more details visit: www.awarect.org

ART OF THE ALBUM CLASSIC RECORD COVERS

WESTPORTWRITES: WESTPORT LIFESTYLE EDITOR ROBIN MOYER CHUNG

On exhibit at the Westport Library through

Learn how to capture a reader's attention by

February 25, enjoy a glance back at some classic

writing lyrically, focusing on hook, word choice,

rock & roll and blues album covers from the '50s,

and a provocative angle. Robin Moyer Chung is a

'60s, '70s. WestportLibrary.org

professional lyricist, blogger and editor/writer for

AWARE CT HOPE STARTS HERE 2020 PHOTOGRAPHY EXHIBIT Hope Starts Here 2020 Photography Exhibit will tell the stories and share the black and white 18

portraits of our community members united to raise

Westport Lifestyle | February 2020

Westport Lifestyle magazine. Her musical, The Top Job, is produced around the world.

At the Westport Library on February 9 from 2:00 p.m.-4:00 p.m., she'll help you create a unique and memorable voice.

TREND SETTER

HOLY XOLI, THIS CHICK CAN KNIT! DESIGNER AND KNITTER OF GORGEOUS SWEATERS AND MORE

XOLI NGCOZA, BORN IN SOUTH AFRICA,

confusing minutes my kids were questioning

BEMOANS THE CELEBRITY-IDOLIZING

every decision I had ever made in my entire

SOCIAL-MEDIA-OBSESSED

life and after 7 minutes we bolted, needles

CULTURE

OF MILLENIALS. “They’re missing things

flying in our wake.

that are handmade,” she explains. “I’d like to

“I hated knitting when I was young,” Xoli

own a store and teach them about knitting…

admits after hearing my tale of woe. Turns

they don’t know to switch off and do some-

out her experience wasn’t as poetic, either.

thing with their hands.” Well, something

Because knitting is tedious and confusing

other than texting and swiping.

(my words, not hers), it took her three years

A Certified Nursing Assistant and DJ,

to finish her first project. When she finally

Xoli learned knitting from a client stricken

did she had a new scarf and a new passion.

with Alzheimer’s. Having tried, and failed,

“If you don’t have patience, put it away,” Xoli

to connect with her client, Xoli found yarn

says. “Then take it out again and finish it and

and knitting needles in her client’s home.

you will catch the bug.”

“I asked her for lessons,” she recalls. “My client’s mind went smoothly into it and we

Today, Xoli can knit the hell out of a pile of yarn.

spent days knitting together. She gifted

She knitted loads of scarves and beanies

me my first set of knitting needles and I’ve

before boredom forced her to pearl and loop

been knitting ever since.”

her first sweater. For the knit-naïve among

My own experience with knitting wasn’t as

you, scarves-to-sweaters is the maker

poetic. I decided to sign up myself and two

equivalent of parenting toddlers-to-teens: a

of my kids for a free knitting class. After 3

necessary but intimidating process.

ARTICLE ROBIN MOYER CHUNG | PHOTOGRAPHY MAYA PORRINO

20

Westport Lifestyle | February 2020

XOLI NGCOZA

CONTINUED >

February 2020 | Westport Lifestyle

21

TREND SE T TER (CONTINUED)

KNITTING A SWEATER WHILE WEARING A SWEATER.

“It took me a long time,” she says, “as soon as I finished it, I was jumping for joy. I remember myself at home screaming, ‘It’s finished!’… it’s been the same feeling every time I finish one.”

She designs all of her sweaters and painstakingly researches yarn and colors.

If you want to see her in action, you can find her in Westport Yarns or terrain, custom-knitting cozy and beautiful sweaters for men, women, and movie stars. Style icon Lupita Nyong’o owns two of her creations and wore one for a Marie Claire photo shoot alongside threads by Gucci, Chloé, Givenchy and more.

“There’s so much stress in the world,” she smiles, “[Knitting sweaters] makes your day so much smoother.”

I believe her. But I think I’d find just as much smoothness in letting her knit one for me.

HandKnitByXoli.com

LUPITA NYONG’O ON MARIECLAIRE.COM WEARING A XOLI SWEATER.

22

Westport Lifestyle | February 2020

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CITY SCENE BMS students in Narcissus Garden. (photo: Courtesy MoCA Westport)

MOCA BRINGS WORLD-CLASS ART TO WESTPORT

ARTICLE ROBIN MOYER CHUNG

24

TO I N F I N I T Y ROOMS...

A N D B E YO N D !

Westport Lifestyle | February 2020

age 29, she fled to New York City with her only money sewn Inside Kusama's "Where the Lights in My Heart Go" Infinity Room. (photo: Courtesy MoCA Westport/Johnny Fogg)

into the lining of her kimono. 2 Kusama became one of the few females among venerated male Pop artists such as Warhol, Klee, and Claes Oldenburg.

She pioneered a number of artistic techniques, only to have them appropriated by those male peers whose work appeared at more established and prestigious galleries.

In 1962 Claes is rumored to have purloined her ground-breaking use of fabric sculpture six months after seeing her work, Accumulation No. 1, an upholstered chair carpeted with phalluses. 3 In 1966 Warhol created his popular Cow Wallpaper, the repetitive image of a cow papering a room. Kusama had done the same thing with a rowboat two years earlier with Aggregation: One Thousand Boats Show.4 The most devastating incident, though, was in 1965, when Kusama created Endless Love Room, the first of what would become her infinity rooms. Seven months later, Lucas Samaras, an artist who had only created small sculptures, inexplicably exhibited a mirrored room at the Pace Gallery which was an overnight sensation. 5 While the appropriation of techniques is nothing new in the art world, Kusama was infuriated by his bla-

SURELY YOU HEARD THE ROAR OF MOCA WESTPORT BURST-

tant rip-off of her idea. Enraged and embittered, she attempted

ING OPEN ITS DOORS THIS PAST SEPTEMBER FOR ITS INAU-

suicide by jumping out of a window.6

GURAL EXHIBIT: DUAL YAYOI KUSAMA INSTALLATIONS!

Unable to gain traction in the NYC art scene, depression

Yes, there were two Kusama installations, which is a notable

forced her to move back to Japan in 1973.7 In 1977 she checked

first for the entire east coast. MoCA exhibited Where the Lights

herself into a mental hospital that specialized in art therapy. She

in My Heart Go (WLMHG) Infinity Room (2016), a 10’x10’ room

suffered from a “co-occurrence of bipolar disorder with psychotic

made of steel and aluminum, shined to a mirror finish, alongside

symptoms and obsessive compulsive disorder and schizophre-

her Narcissus Garden (NG) (1966), a collection of 1,200 shiny

nia… [and] Graves disease.”8 Today it’s widely believed that her

steel orbs arranged on the floor.

drive to create art has kept her alive. She continues to live in the

One “experiences” an infinity room by standing inside, door closed, which I did. Yes, it was incredible. Small bits of light trick-

hospital and works in her studio across the street, creating new art and overseeing the installation of existing works.

led in through holes drilled into the walls, creating a universe of

To date, Kusama has created 31 iterations of infinity rooms,

never-ending reflection. As I pondered the infinite spots of lights

each owned by museums and private collectors. Many of these

in the darkness, two thoughts swirled through my mind:

rooms have been hauled around museums and galleries for

1. Something this cool is in Westport?? MoCA is a world-class art destination? WOAH. 2. How did they get it here?

years. Surely this is no easy task, given the size, weight and value. WLMHG weighs a whopping 8,800 lbs.

While the price tag on these rooms vary and are rarely dis-

Kusama, 90, is considered the most successful living female

closed, I did find that the Art Gallery of Ontario acquired a large

artist in the world (Sotheby’s). Her infinity rooms have sparked

room (presumably the largest at that time, but I can’t confirm)

a frenzy among art lovers around the world. Scores of curious

in 2018 for $2 million plus $300,000 for insurance and shipping.

spectators wait in line for hours to experience a room. Point of

4.4 tons? $2 million dollars (possibly less. But still.)? Who

fact, within one week after ArtNEWS posted information about

are the super-human individuals who whisk these hulking

MoCA’s exhibit its waitlist ballooned to over 2,000 people.

metal works from venue to venue?

Kusama’s work is influenced by childhood hallucinations of

The art world is unusually hush-hush about deliveries, fearing

pattern, intrigue with infinite space, and phallic shapes. She’s best

such mundane information might demystify an exalted work.

known for her patterned pieces, like piles of spotted squash and

Which makes sense. For instance, knowing one’s favorite rock star

fabric phallus-covered sculptures.

just clipped his toenails sort of detracts from the magic of his show.

Born into a wealthy family in Japan, to an abusive mother

We do know that SRI Fine Arts delivered all 10,800 pounds

and a philandering father, she was an avid artist throughout her

(the weight of WLMHG plus 1,200 2-lb spheres from NG) of

childhood. Her mother destroyed most of her works, presum-

polished hardware to MoCA. Three fine art handlers from

ably because art was too pedestrian for their class.1 In 1958, at

CONTINUED >

February 2020 | Westport Lifestyle

25

CIT Y SCENE (CONTINUED)

London’s esteemed The White Wall Company flew to Westport and spent three days re-constructing WLMHG. After disassembling the room from MoCA, the same handlers flew to Colorado to install the room at the Aspen Art Museum.

The mirrored orbs of NG arrived at MoCA in a pile of enforced boxes. White-gloved SRI Fine Arts reps placed them around the gallery according to Kusama’s specs. A Kusama expert then sent photos to her in Japan. The next day the SRI reps arrived at MoCA with instructions for alternate placements. They moved them, the expert sent photos. For four more days they re-arranged steel balls until Kusama was satisfied with the organic groupings.

WLMHG left MoCA this past November. However, NG remains until February 26, 2020. But if you missed the infinity room don’t worry, there’s more to come.

MoCA’s spring exhibit is equally as stunning and interesting, featuring world-renowned designer-turn-artist Helmut Lang. After leaving fashion to explore fine art, a 2010 conflagration of Helmut’s design archives inspired him to haul the remaining archives-two decades worth of his clothing-into an industrial shredder. With the remnants and resin he created column after column of sculpture.

“MoCA Westport has an amazing heritage [Westport Arts Center],” explains Amanda Innes, Executive Director. “We have the hunger to take what we offer to the community to another level.”

And, yes, they are.

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SRI Fine Arts reps unpacking Narcissus Garden orbs. (photo: Courtesy MoCA Westport)

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Westport Lifestyle | February 2020

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WALL FLOWERS

PAINTINGS FROM FOUR OF OUR FAVORITE ARTISTS

RIGHT NOW, I AM INSPIRED BY THE BEAUTY OF THE SALT MARSHES OF THE CONNECTICUT COAST.

September Sky, 20"x20"

KRIS TOOHEY As an Art History student at Williams College, I distinctly remember being drawn to Fumee d’Ambris Gris by John Singer Sargent at the Clark Art Institute in Williamstown. I was immediately struck by Sargent’s incredible sense of light, reflection and contrast.

Right now, I am inspired by the beauty of the salt marshes of the Connecticut coast.

I enjoy looking at the ever-changing light and color of the marsh the interplay of sunlight, water, clouds and weather.

My recent favorite [of my paintings] is called Morning Stillness which captures the feeling of a quiet morning overlooking a misty marsh. I love how the soft brush strokes and layers of color

Saugatuck Grasses, 20"x20"

create a sense of airy space and peaceful moodiness.

My favorite part of painting is watching the image emerge as I layer translucent glazes, and then create watery reflections by softly

ARTICLE ROBIN MOYER CHUNG

drawing wide brushes across the canvas.

Hands down, my least favorite part is promoting my work and myself - since painting and the appreciation of art is deeply personal.

28

Westport Lifestyle | February 2020

MELISSA TEITEL The person who has most informed my work is a friend,

of this piece is a letter to my grandma who passed away

mentor, and artist Mindy Wiesel. She once wrote to me “an

several years ago. She and I had a very special relation-

artist is one who makes art. A painter paints. Period. The

ship. Writing to her and then painting this piece provided

‘self doubt’ never ever ever goes away. If it did, we probably

a sense of connection to her.

couldn’t make work. There is no room for ‘judgment’ while

I love the evolutionary process of painting. I love watch-

we work. Judging is an activity in and of itself, if we’re busy

ing a piece develop and shift over time. I love “figuring

judging how can we possibly be painting? Painting is los-

out” a new piece. I love the point at which I can let go

ing oneself with marks that are beyond language and for

of what I intended a painting to be or look like and allow

some, like us, who need a place for expression.” I read the

it to become what it’s actually meant to be. Sometimes

notes she’s written me, almost daily.

those two things are very different. I also love what hap-

One of my favorites is Letting Go. It was one of the

pens inside me when I’m creating a painting. I grow, I am

first pieces I did when we moved to Weston, soon after I

challenged, I’m forced to see new perspectives and I’m

gave birth to my son, Jax. It was a time filled with a lot of

reminded to practice patience.

CONTINUED >

unknowns, new place, new people, new baby. This piece gave me a place to work through some of those feelings.

Another piece I love is titled Dear Elsie. The base layer

Balancing Act, 40"x60" (photo : Jonathan Levinson)

Melissa Teitel (photo: Mindy Briar)

Raindrops, 30"x40" (photo : Jonathan Levinson)

I LOVE THE POINT AT WHICH I CAN LET GO OF WHAT I INTENDED A PAINTING TO BE OR LOOK LIKE AND ALLOW IT TO BECOME WHAT IT’S ACTUALLY MEANT TO BE. February 2020 | Westport Lifestyle

29

WALL FLOWERS (CONTINUED)

NANCY LANDAUER Nancy Landauer (photo: Mindy Briar)

Creating art has always been an emotional outlet or way to express point of view. I create pieces that capture my current mood or are commentary on various subjects. This can range from life in suburbia, or a musician or celebrity that inspires me.

I have always been inspired by Andy Warhol (I actually met him once outside Studio 54!) and his creative entourage from the late 1970’s in New York. I am inspired by current pop artists such as Ashley Longshore and Barnabe. I consider Kerry James Marshall a modern master.

Although many of my pieces are brightly colored, I love to remove all color and paint in black, white and grey. I think this gives an unexpected twist to the cartoon series I created and

XO Liz, 30"x48”

adds a modern edge.

My favorite commission to date was my most challenging.

An interior designer commissioned a piece for a client with a teenage son combining three rock bands into one canvas.

I was not sure it would work but ended up being one of my

I CREATE PIECES THAT CAPTURE MY CURRENT MOOD OR ARE COMMENTARY

favorite pieces.

ON VARIOUS SUBJECTS.

One of my favorite paintings is by Kerry James Marshall, Untitled (Vignette) 2012. It portrays a young African American couple in an idyllic setting. There is a sardonic and sarcastic undertone to the piece.

A favorite piece that I created is titled Bad at Love. It is composed as a collage but is completely painted in acrylic. I am proud of the amount of detail incorporated into the piece. I like the use of Japanese lettering as pattern. It seems that a complicated story is behind her tears, but I leave that to each viewers interpretation.

My favorite part of creating a painting is when it is finished, I step back, and it says “POW” to me- that’s how I know it works.

30

Westport Lifestyle | February 2020

YES! Childhood Series, 36"x36”

Color Awakenings V, 48"x24"

Marrakesh, 37"x19"

ALBERS’ INTERACTION OF COLOR INSPIRED ME TO BECOME A COLOR FIELD PAINTER AND HELPED ME TO DEVELOP MY OWN TECHNIQUES.

KAT EVANS Like most artists’ children my father encouraged me to be part of

with the Bauhaus School before immigrating to the United States

his creative life (he actually allowed me to wash his brushes!). My

where he became one of the leading pioneers of 20th-century mod-

life long passion for art and design led to a long graphic design

ernism and was a hugely influential teacher. Albers’ Interaction of

career, first as art director of Save the Children then my own com-

Color inspired me to become a Color Field painter and helped me to

pany, Evans Design Associates. After 25+ years as a graphic designer

develop my own techniques.

I began to paint full time when I joined The Art Studio with 5 talented and supportive artists on the Post Road in Westport. (Editor’s Note: Kris Toohey is a fellow member of The Art Studio.)

The work of Color Field painters Mark Rothko and Helen Frankenthaler are inspirations as well as Albers.

The visual vibrations that can be created with the juxtaposition

I was fortunate. My professors had studied with Josef Albers

of complementary colors (opposites on the color wheel such as red

whose theories on the human perception of harmony, color and

and green) is frequently how I begin a painting and collage. I love

contrast are legendary. The German-born Albers was associated

how magical those combinations can be in a work of art.

February 2020 | Westport Lifestyle

31

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Westport Lifestyle | February 2020

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33

ART AS THERAPY

Watercolor mandalas.

Photo Credit: Sheraton Caregivers 34

Westport Lifestyle | February 2020

THE CREATIVE CONNECTION

ARTICLE JEN BERNIKER

“I HAD NO IDEA THAT I COULD PAINT!” EXCLAIMED A 103-YEAR OLD PATIENT IN ONE OF SOPHIE SLATER’S ART THERAPY SESSIONS. Slater is accustomed to this type of reaction, though the satisfaction it brings her never gets old. As one of several highly trained therapeutic arts professionals employed by Sheraton Caregivers, she works little miracles with physically and mentally impaired people every day.

Sheraton Caregivers is the only care agency in Connecticut with a department dedicated to expressive arts and holistic wellness. “With a lot of home care agencies, it’s about the basics – eating, dressing, hygiene – important things. But we also look at the human element,” says Slater. Their prescription for the body and soul includes Art Therapy, Music Therapy, Mneme Therapy, mindfulness exercises, and even Pet Therapy. Yes, a guided interaction with a trained dog or cat can alleviate all kinds of issues. And no, Mneme Therapy has nothing to do with social media jokes.

Mneme Therapy (pronounced ‘nemma’) is a type of whole brain remedy also known as Therapeutic Painting. Using a combination of hand-over-hand assisted painting, arm movements, singing, story-telling, and praise, practitioners can help the elderly as well as kids, teens and anyone in between cope with challenges from autism to ADHD to Alzheimer’s and dementia.

Therapists offer at-home services and provide group, family and individual sessions at locations throughout Fairfield County. Meliza Lopez is the recreational director at Bridges by Epoch in Trumbull, a memory-care facility where Sheraton Caregivers works on a regular basis: “MnemeTherapy does not focus on the skill level of the residents.

Instead, the method helps the person recreate a work of art using music and conversation to tap into unused pathways in the brain. I have seen for myself the past come to life in these sessions.”

For example, in a music therapy session, a therapist may lead off with a tune from the 1940s and see people with advanced dementia break into song.

CONTINUED >

February 2020 | Westport Lifestyle

35

AR T AS THER APY (CONTINUED)

Mneme Therapy painting created using hand-over-hand assist.

Photo Credit: Sheraton Caregivers

Said one client’s daughter of her father’s at-home music therapist, Alison Albino, “Alison speaks the language of angels and sprinkles joy, serenity and encouragement to all in her presence. My Dad smiles as he sings along with her.”

What’s even better than providing pure happiness and personal connection? Practicing therapeutic arts has measurable mental and physical benefits. Documented testimonies have shown significant improvement in clients in verbal skills, spatial acuity, and comprehension. Other key benefits include: + Increased intellectual stimulation + Enhanced sense of autonomy + Improved physical and motor skills

Sophie Slater with Audra D'Agostino.

Photo Credit: Ashton Landers

+ Relief from anxiety and depression + Opportunities for “life review” - taking pride in one’s accomplishments Therapists also provide support and relief to caregivers. Says Slater, “That hour we are together offers a deeper level of connection than the client might have with their spouse most of the week.”

Slater

and

her

teammates

Audra

Epstein and Reyna Zascirinskis all have Masters Degrees in Art Therapy and Counseling. Sheraton Caregivers was founded in 2018 by Gillian Isaacs.

Longtime Westport resident, Joan Scher Richardson, says “Gillian made the perfect match for my Mom who had refused any help for her first 95 years. She loved painting with Sophie and talking with her about her experiences.”

Slater beams, “The sense of pride that comes when someone creates something they didn’t believe they could create is so rewarding.”

Gratitude leaf bowls.

Photo Credit: Sheraton Caregivers

For more information please visit: https://www.sheraton.care

36

Westport Lifestyle | February 2020

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203.216.1287 mindy.wolkstein@raveis.com mindywolkstein.raveis.com 47 Riverside Avenue | Westport, CT

SNEAK PEAK | CASUALLY SOPHISTICATED FAIRFIELD BEACH COLONIAL

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Westport Lifestyle | February 2020

Serving the legal needs of individual and business clients in Fairfield County since 1919

Join us for a seminar in our new Westport location.

January 24: Navigating the Estate Tax

Landscape to Meet Your Goals

February 20: Capital Improvement Financing for Condominium Associations

For additional information contact dsuggs@pullcom.com

253 Post Road West • Westport, CT 06880-8180 • 203.254.5000

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February 2020 | Westport Lifestyle

39

CULINARY CREATIONS

B e au t i f u l , D e l i c i o u s a n d E x t r a o r d i n a ry

CHEZ 180 PATISSERIE AND EXPERIENCE IS MUCH MORE THAN SANDWICHES AND SWEETS

ARTICLE ROBIN MOYER CHUNG | PHOTOGRAPHY LISA NICHOLS

Chef Carlos Perez 40

Westport Lifestyle | February 2020

Irish Point oysters with jalapeño pickled green apple, mango relish and marasca cherry ice.

MAKE 2020 THE YEAR OF

JOY!

WOW. Just - WOW. Chez 180 Patisserie and Experience is not just pastries, although they do have sweets such as, oh, liquid nitrogen frozen coconut meringue with white chocolate, key lime, passion fruit and raspberry. There are also savory plates like Irish Point oysters with jalapeño pickled green apple, mango relish and marasca cherry ice, and scallop crude

CYCLING H.I.I.T PILATES

with yuzu cotton candy. You know, typical molecular gastronomy stuff we whip up in our kitchens every night.

And pretty much everything is made in-house at (oh boy!) reasonable price points.

The force behind this eatery is beloved chef Carlos Perez. Admittedly, Perez looks less like a chef and more like a rap star, inked with bird skulls and skeletons replete with cooking references. And, like any good son, he has a heart tat inscribed “Mom”… with a

FIRST CLASS $15

sword sticking through it. But his mom says she doesn’t mind. After all, if tats were taken at face value it would be a very creepy world.

And Chez 180’s world is nothing short of fabulous.

P.S. Chez 180 also have standard fare on the menu, which is nothing short of delicious.

CONTINUED >

joyridestudio.com 1200 Post Road East

February 2020 | Westport Lifestyle

41

CULINARY CRE ATIONS (CONTINUED) Chocolate temptation

Liquid nitrogen frozen coconut meringue with white chocolate, key lime, passion fruit and raspberry

42

Westport Lifestyle | February 2020

Flourless Dark Chocolate and Raspberr y Cake I n g r e d i e n ts + 7 eggs + 8 egg yolks + 1 cup sugar + 15 oz melted semisweet or dark chocolate + pinch of salt + 1 1/2 tsp vanilla + 16 oz heavy cream, whipped to medium stiff peaks plus more for garnishing + 1/4 cup raspberry preserves

Celebrating 40 Years Founded in 1980

Method 1. Preheat oven to 300°. Grease and line a 9” springform pan with parchment paper.

2. Whip eggs, yolks, and sugar until light yellow and increased significantly in volume.

3. Combine melted chocolate, salt, and vanilla. Take 1/3 of the egg mixture and fold into the melted chocolate. Then fold in the remaining egg mixture until fully incorporated. Fold in whipped cream until no streaks remain.

4. Pour batter into springform pan.

Dollop raspberry preserves randomly in batter and use a toothpick or tip of a knife to streak them throughout the cake.

5. Bake 45 min. in hot water bath. Cool in refrigerator completely before unmolding.

Serve with macerated raspberries, dollops of freshly whipped cream, shaved chocolate (I prefer Valrhona), and mint sprigs.

Chez180.com

180 Post Road East, Westport

Store wide sale now in progress

WOOD BIN Solid Wood Furniture 305 Federal Road Brookfield, CT (203) 775-1770 | woodbinfurniture.com

February 2020 | Westport Lifestyle

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24-Hour Availability Non-Medical Homecare | Hourly & 24-Hour | Alzheimer’s & Dementia Care Transitional Care Nurse Case Manager Art Therapy | Music Therapy | Yoga Massage Therapy | Pet Therapy Paint & Sip Events Licensed, Insured & Bonded HCA #0001288

SHERATON CAREGIVERS LLC 203-221-0221 256 Post Road East, Suite 204 Westport, CT 06880 info@sheraton.care www.sheraton.care

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Westport Lifestyle | February 2020

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February 2020 | Westport Lifestyle

45

LOCALLY OWNED

LET TER PR ESS AND LIFEST YLE

Shannon Vindiola outside her studio.

YOZOSTUDIO: DESIGNING JUST ABOUT EVERYTHING

THERE’S A RAGING DEBATE AMONG LETTERPRESS PRINTERS AS TO THE DEPTH OF AN IMPRESSION, OF WHICH I’M SURE WE’D ALL BE BETTER INFORMED WERE IT NOT FOR THE HYSTERIA SURROUNDING THE RELEASE OF TOP GUN: MAVERICK. Shannon Vindiolo of YozoStudio pays little heed to this when running her letterpress; she knows exactly the depth and the amount of ink to use regardless of the fiery rhetoric of fellow artisans.

Samples of her work line the walls of her spotless studio. Each piece is unique, often with a sense of humor, and exactly the kind of card I plan to send to everyone on my holiday list after I find gold in my backyard. (Though she works well within a budget.)

Shelves on one side of her office are lined with stationary and gifts, some she’s made and some that lend to her aesthetic. The opposite shelves are filled with thematic kids’ party accessories, including hats, toys, and party favors. She plans to open an e-commerce site, offering these items for purchase along with planning tips and ideas.

I’ll take this moment to mention her expansive talent. Like, if something can be designed she’ll design it. Design an amazing event? Yep. Design an entire personal branding campaign? Mm hmm.

Design her entire house and studio when she moved to Westport from Dallas two years ago?? Uh… YEAH. How does she do it? Being thoughtful and creative is key, but her self-professed “super-human organizational powers” contribute.

But the cornerstone of her mini-empire are her extraordinary custom cards and stationary.

46

Westport Lifestyle | February 2020

ARTICLE ROBIN MOYER CHUNG | PHOTOGRAPHY TADD MYERS

Letterpress ink.

With her Pantone books.

Carefully proofing.

Mixing letterpress ink.

She crafts each card and note by hand, selecting the stock, cutting the cards, and pasting photos (if necessary). Many pieces include a logo which - wait for it - she designs. Her envelopes may even be hand-lined with paper from her collection of ‘70s wrapping paper.

CONTINUED >

February 2020 | Westport Lifestyle

47

LOCALLY OWNED (CONTINUED)

Shannon Vindiola inside YozoStudio.

On the bottom floor of her studio are two enormous letterpresses, a Vandercook Proof press from the 1950’s and a Heidelberg Windmill from the 1960’s, for debossing the fabulously thick stock she uses. The Heidlberg, in particular, is a beast. She warns me, “This one you don’t want to get close to or you’ll lose your finger or,” she laughs, “your head.” I discreetly step back as the monster roars to life, scarily but precisely slicing the printed stock into perfect circles.

She picks up a circle to make sure it’s perfect enough for her client. While making an adjustment to the press she muses, “Each piece [I design] should have strategy and thought to it, a concept,” then sets down the circle, “I like to make life beautiful.”

YozoStudio.com 48

Westport Lifestyle | February 2020

IGNAZIO’S THE PIZZA (in-yats-zio)

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From Brooklyn to Westport

833 POST ROAD EAST, WESTPORT February 2020 | Westport Lifestyle

49

Your Special Day. Don’t Settle.

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Westport Lifestyle | February 2020

jpphilbinlandscapes@gmail.com

MIKE’S GOLD NUGGETS YOU HAVE WORKED HARD TO BUILD YOUR WEALTH, LET’S MAKE SURE ITS PROTECTED

FIVE ASSET PROTECTION PLANNING MISTAKES

1

2 3

STARTING ASSET PROTECTION PLANNING AFTER YOU ARE AWARE YOU CAN BE SUED While there are many strategies to protect your wealth, if done too late, they tend to

be ineffective. Moving money around after you are aware a claim can be made against you—into a trust, for example—and you’ll learn a new vocabulary term: fraudulent conveyance. That strategy may very likely be reversed by the courts.

NOT HAVING ENOUGH (OR THE PROPER) LIABILITY INSURANCE Part of effective asset protection planning is ensuring you have the right kinds and amounts of liability coverage. Most people could, benefit from larger umbrella liability policies. Many are not aware or don’t think of this nor do many of their property and casualty brokers. A further complication: Many property and casualty brokers are limited as to the amount of coverage they can provide because of the insurance companies they work with. Additionally, we see that many accomplished business owners have substandard general liability coverage. A good number of these business owners might also benefit from higher-quality (and more customized) directors and officers liability coverage. The good news: Liability insurance is relatively inexpensive. After avoiding lawsuits (generally beyond your control), it can be considered the first line of defense in an asset protection plan.

FAILING TO APPROACH ASSET PROTECTION PLANNING IN A SYNERGISTIC APPROACH WITH YOUR OVERALL WEALTH PLANNING EFFORTS

4 5

NOT UNDERSTANDING WHAT YOU DID AND WHY YOU DID IT If you can’t explain the intended results of your asset protection planning and why you did what you did—at a high level, there is a pretty good chance your planning will not deliver the protection you seek.

FAILING TO WORK WITH A SKILLED PROFESSIONAL EXPERT There are a lot of professionals who profess expertise when it comes to asset protection planning and overall wealth planning.

Trouble is, many of them are not very adept, some are what I refer to as: - “Pretenders”: They know just enough about asset protection strategies to get themselves—and you—in trouble.

- “Predators”: who prey on your fear of litigation and deliver ineffectual asset protection solutions.

- “Exploiters” who provide asset protection strategies but at egregious prices and that are often inappropriate to the situation at hand.

Each of these three types of professionals will probably end up doing you more harm than good. To get the best results of asset protection planning, you need to work with a true authority in the field Action step: Periodically stress test your asset protection plan and overall wealth plan, doing so will enable you to uncover and correct any gaps in coverage. your FREE, No Obligation Consultation.

Visit www.GoldFamilyWealth.com or Call 646-844-2533 for more information

Comprehensive wealth planning encompasses a variety of specializations, including: - Estate planning - Income tax planning - Retirement planning - Investment planning - and—yes—asset protection planning.

While it’s possible to engage in these types of planning individually, there are often considerable benefits of thinking about your planning holistically—so that all the pieces of your financial life work together in concert, seamlessly. Holistic wealth planning enables you to understand the trade-offs and any risks that you might otherwise overlook.

Michael R. Gold CFP®, Private Client Wealth Manager

Please remember that past performance may not be indicative of future results. Different types of investments involve varying degrees of risk, and there can be no assurance that the future performance of any specific investment, investment strategy, or product (including the investments and/or investment strategies recommended or undertaken by Gold Family Wealth, LLC), or any non-investment related content, made reference to directly or indirectly in this newsletter will be profitable, equal any corresponding indicated historical performance level(s), be suitable for your portfolio or individual situation, or prove successful. Due to various factors, including changing market conditions and/or applicable laws, the content may no longer be reflective of current opinions or positions. Moreover, you should not assume that any discussion or information contained in Typeface for Logo: Times New this newsletter serves as the receipt of, or as a substitute for, personalized investment advice from Gold Family Wealth, LLC. To the extent that a reader has any questions regarding the applicability of any specific issue discussed above to his/her individual situation, he/she is encouraged to consult with the professional advisor ofRoman his/her choosing. Gold Family Wealth, LLC is neither a law firm nor a certified public accounting firm and no portion of the newsletter content should be construed as legal or accounting advice. A copy of the Gold Family Wealth, LLC’s current written disclosure statement discussing our advisory services and fees is available upon request. If you are a Gold Family Wealth, LLC client, please remember to contact Gold Family Wealth, LLC, in writing, if there are any changes in your personal/financial situation or investment objectives for the purpose of reviewing/evaluating/revising our previous recommendations and/or services.

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Ph: (203) 360-2371, Fax: (203) 643-2022 www.bespokevetservice.com February 2020 | Westport Lifestyle

51

GIVING BACK

A REMARKABLE REVIVAL WESTPORT HAS A STORIED HISTORY WHEN IT COMES TO THE ARTS. An “artist colony” for well over a century, Westport was — and still is — home to more than its share of authors, artists and actors. (And those are just the “a”s!) Add filmmakers and film buffs and storytellers of all stripes and Westport’s artistic pedigree is undeniable. What Westport no longer has, however, is a dedicated movie theater to screen those films, host related discussions, and share a collective filmgoing experience. This feels like a loss.

Another absence that’s often overlooked is our town’s lack of meaningful employment opportunities for its capable adults with developmental disabilities. Despite their talent and drive, they struggle to find decent work, purpose and a community.

THE PLOT THICKENS IN WESTPORT'S CINEMA QUEST

When the dedicated cinephiles of WCI (Westport Cinema Initiative) and disability advocates of CAPE (Creating Acceptance through Purposeful Employment) came together in 2019 - in a cinematic peanut-butter-meets-chocolate moment - the

ARTICLE JEN BERNIKER AND MARGIE JACOBSEN | PHOTOGRAPHY MARINA DERMAN AND DIANE JOHNSON

Remarkable Theater was born.

Yes, “Remarkable Theater” is an homage to the long-loved downtown anchor the Remarkable Bookshop, but also much more. It’s a connector to the independent spirit of that mom and pop bookshop and other one-of-a-kind shops that once lined our Main Street. It’s also a reminder of the unique qualities that shine in each of us — regardless of ability. And it accurately sums up the theater’s mission — to create a vibrant arts space and community hub where conversation and cultural exploration flow. In a world full of multiplexes, the Remarkable Theater will stand out as one of the area’s premier, state-of-the-art, independent arthouse cinemas.

52

Westport Lifestyle | February 2020

CONTINUED >

Members of the Remarkable Theater serve up fresh popcorn on Main Street

February 2020 | Westport Lifestyle

53

GIVING BACK (CONTINUED) Doug Tirola, documentary filmmaker and member of the Remarkable Board of Directors, explains that, in a town filled with chain stores and patrons with our noses in our cellphones, a local theater would also boost foot traffic and a sense of connectedness: “Imagine standing in line for a movie ticket and talking to friends, neighbors and strangers. Movies bring us together, and they give us destinations for date nights, teenager nights, and summer strolls.”

Can’t wait to sink into a reclining seat with a hot tub of popcorn? Me neither. Right now the board is searching for the perfect downtown location and preparing to launch a vital capital campaign. They say they have received “excellent feed-back from town officials and have support from the P&Z.” In the meantime, the Remarkable Popcorn Cart is popping up downtown and at town events throughout Westport. The cart, staffed by trained members of the Remarkable Workforce, has been popping and selling hot movie theater popcorn all fall and will continue at indoor events and venues until spring. Follow Remarkable Theater on Facebook and Instagram to see where it will pop up next! And in 2020, prepare for a series of pop-up movie screenings, where the group will continue its efforts by showing great movies, employing an underserved part of the workforce, and giving Westport a taste of the theater to come.

There

were

once

four

movie

theaters

in

Westport. Fine Arts 1 & 2 seated 700. Its run lasted from 1916-1999, when it became Restoration Hardware. Behind it on Jesup Road was Fine Arts 3 (now Matsu Sushi), and the Post Cinema was a mile further east on the Post Road.

The Fine Arts Theater at 80 Post Road East in 1940 Photo Cred: unknown, courtesy cinema treasures.org http://cinematreasures.org /theaters/10129/photos/227718 54

Westport Lifestyle | February 2020

rg o . t c f o t c Visit a information & s t e k c i t r

fo

FEB 6 MAR 8

saugatuck-financial.com 203.221.5275 | 274 Riverside Avenue, Westport, CT Inspired by Community

Al Schor | Justin Charise, CFP® Comprehensive Financial Planning Wealth Management | Estate Planning Insurance, Retirement and Tax Strategies

It’s time to think

locally

ADVERTISE WITH US

All investments carry some level of risk, including the potential loss of principal invested. No investment strategy can guarantee a profit or protect against loss. Saugatuck Financial is a marketing name for Justin Charise and Al Schor and is not a broker-dealer, registered investment advisor, federal savings bank, subsidiary or other corporate affiliate of The Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance Company including its subsidiaries, nor is it a legal partnership or entity. Northwestern Mutual is the marketing name for The Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance Company, Milwaukee, WI (NM), and its subsidiaries. Charise and Schor are representatives of Northwestern Mutual Wealth Management Company®, NMWMC Milwaukee, WI, a subsidiary of NM and limited purpose federal savings bank, and registered representatives of Northwestern Mutual Investment Services, LLC (securities), a subsidiary of NM, registered investment adviser, broker-dealer and member FINRA and SIPC. All NMWMC products and services are offered only by properly credentialed representatives who operate from agency offices of NMWMC.

to deliver your message to the most affluent families in our community.

Westport-Lifestyle.com February 2020 | Westport Lifestyle

55

FEBRUARY

LIFESTYLE CALENDAR

5

7

17

THE JUGGLE STRUGGLE: SUPPORT GROUP FOR WOMEN BY WOMEN

YOUTH ARTISTS COLLECTIVE WORKSHOP: VALENTINES-MAKE YOUR OWN!

WINTER BREAK FOR PUBLIC SCHOOLS

Westport Library

Strap on the snowshoes and stock the

share how to deal with the multiple roles

Westport artists Katherine and Rebecca

wine fridge! Public schools are closed

women are often called upon to play;

Ross will lead this monthly series of

and the kids are all yours, all the time.

from mother, to friend, breadwinner,

teen art workshops for grades 6-12 in

daughter, and volunteer, this can be

Westport and surrounding communi-

stressful! Let yourself de-stress during

ties. YAC is an inclusive group of young

this group and learn new/different tools

artists that meet to make art, talk about

to deal with the juggle.

art, offer support and find opportunities

Email Angelina Miceli LCSW to register and

to share their art. All workshop materials

learn more! amiceli@positivedirections.org

will be supplied.

90 Post Road West, Westport

A support group for women to vent and

Your home

18 BATS LANGLEY'S FANTASTICAL MONSTER CREATION LABORATORY Westport Library

Create monsters and monster stories

6

8

with writer and illustrator Bats Langley.

GODSPELL

FAMILY DAY: ANCIENT GREEK ART

monster sculptures in this 3-day work-

Fairfield University Art Museum

shop. Funny, spooky or goofy monsters

ACT's version of GODSPELL is sure

Please join Family Day: Ancient Greek

for the making!

to thrill you! Artistic Director, Daniel C.

Art in the museum's Bellarmine Hall

Questions? Contact Margaret Pastel

Levine, reimagines this hit show in a

Galleries and Smart Classroom for

at mpastel@westportlibrary.org.

unique and inspiring way. When a group

drop-in arts & crafts activities and child

For children grades K-2. Look for later

of homeless children are found squatting

friendly gallery tours! Ages 4 – 10.

times for older kids.

in an abandoned church that is being

Session 1: 1 – 2:30 p.m

readied for demolition, parables from the

Session 2: 2:30 – 4 p.m.

New Testament spring to life and spread

Please register for the number of

a message of love and light.

children only.

ACT of Connecticut, Ridgefield

EventBrite.com

6 SOCIAL SECURITY EXPLAINED Westport Library

Almost 74% of Americans voluntarily

Set monstrously clever ideas to paper, shroud it in a story and then build 3D

25 MISTER ROGERS' NEIGHBORHOOD Westport Library

12

Tuesdays at Two Film: A Beautiful Day in

VALENTINE MAKING DROP-IN

based on the true story of a real-life

the Neighborhood A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood is

Westport Museum for History and Culture

friendship between Fred Rogers and

received reduced retirement income

Create a valentine for a friend, family

journalist Tom Junod. (2019, 1h 48m)

benefits because they don’t know all the

member or partner and learn more about

facts. This workshop will cover the best

greeting cards during the Victorian Era!

time to start receiving Social Security

Suitable for all ages, this free program

benefits and strategies to maximize ben-

encourages each of us to send a token of

efits and coordinate with your spouse.

appreciation to someone we care about.

Avoid the most common mistakes made

Cards may be left with us to bring to a

when collecting your benefits and dis-

local senior center.

cuss special rules for single, divorced

Registration online:

MoCA

and survivor benefits.

www.westporthistory.org

Haimowitz. Renowned as a musical

29 SOLO CELLIST MATT HAIMOWITZ IN CONCERT MoCA Westport

welcomes

cellist

Matt

pioneer, The New Yorker describes this ‘remarkable virtuoso’ as someone who ‘never turns in a predictable performance.’

56

Westport Lifestyle | February 2020

KEEP YOUR FAVORITE LITTLE VALENTINE’S SMILE

clean and white!

Dr Hannah Ahn Board Certified Pediatric Dentist

329 Riverside Avenue Westport 203-635-7070

pediatricdentistryofwestport.com

MARK YOUR CALENDARS

Abstract Originals

by J. Okumura

BIGGER. BOLDER. EVEN MORE STORES

Fashionably Westport Thursday, April 23 Friday, April 24

Learn more at WestportDMA.com

NEW DATES. EMERGING ARTISTS.

Westport Fine Arts Festival Saturday, May 30 Sunday, May 31

Artist registration is open!

Westport River Gallery

One Riverside Ave, Westport 203-226-6934 · WestportRiverGallery.com February 2020 | Westport Lifestyle

57

LOCAL’S CHOICE

LAST MINUTE GIFT IDEAS FOR THOSE WHO FORGOT, OR DON'T CARE, IT'S VALENTINE'S DAY.

t h e re l u c t a n t valentine

ARTICLE ROBIN MOYER CHUNG

IT’S ALMOST VALENTINE’S DAY - DID YOU REMEMBER TO BUY YOUR SPECIAL SOMEONE A GIFT? Probably not. So here are some easy-to-get gift ideas:

Need a gift for someone you’re dating? “I Like You,” Amy Sedaris’s event-planning book is funny and clever while somehow imparting real advice. Further, the innocuous title won’t send any misleading or unrequited messages about your feelings. | I Like You” by Amy Sedaris, Barnes & Noble, $26.47.

For the cooks among you, nothing says “romantic dinner for two plus whichever kid isn’t a vegan” like a few exquisite craftbutcher ribeyes. | Ribeye Boneless Steaks, Fleishers

Craft

Butchery

(in

Saugatuck),

$33.99/LB. (photo: Jason Yang)

Can’t cook? No worries: a waffle iron does the cooking for you, sort of. Fun yet practical, the improbability of a waffle cooker for Cupid Day makes it seem as though you put a lot of thought into it. | 4-Square All-Clad Belgian Waffle Maker, William Sonoma, $199.95.

And if last-minute expensive jewelry is your thing, then I encourage you to go for it. After all, it is Valentine’s Day whether you like it or not. | Gabriel & Co. 14K Yellow Gold Layered Diamond Triangle Pendant Necklace, $565, Lenox Jewelers, Fairfield 58

Westport Lifestyle | February 2020

TAKE YOURSELF FURTHER

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