September is back to school… I attended Holy Name, Glenbrook, St. Maurice, Burdick and Stamford High. Only Stamford High remains. I assure you that the demise of the others was none of my doing, although some may beg to differ. I have always been fiercely independent. Some may say – loud, aggressive and perhaps even, dare I say, obnoxious. I’m also very funny, thoughtful and fiercely loyal. I am unique and independent – in style and thought.
Today, I want to take a moment to celebrate and explore the fascinating world of style. Style is not limited to the clothes we wear or the way we adorn ourselves; it encompasses every aspect of our lives. From the way we decorate our homes to the music we listen to, from the books we read to the way we carry ourselves in conversations, style permeates every facet of our existence. It is the thread that weaves together the tapestry of our lives.
Style is deeply personal. And it evolves as we celebrate our quirks, our passions, and our desires. Style is a form of self-expression that communicates who we are, how we perceive the world and what we value. In this way, style becomes a powerful tool for connection, as it enables us to find common ground with others who share our aesthetic sensibilities.
As individuals, we have the freedom to embrace established styles, blend them together, or forge entirely new paths, becoming trendsetters ourselves. We hope this issue inspires you to forge new paths or perhaps explore familiar ones. There is so much here in Stamford to uplift our spirits, boost your productivity and ignite your creativity.
What I’ve found is that the best style is an authentic expression of who you really are. And that’s something no one on earth can duplicate.
We really love to hear about what you love. We welcome your suggestions. We’ll keep finding our footing and our voice, one issue at a time. Thank you for reading this far. And, please, support our advertisers the best that you can. Without them, we don’t show up in your mailbox.
LAURIE A. GUZDA, EDITOR @STAMFORDCITYLIFESTYLEMAGAZINE
September 2023
PUBLISHER
Marty Shapiro | Marty.Shapiro@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Laurie A. Guzda | laurie.guzda@citylifestyle.com
ADMINISTRATIVE DIRECTOR
PJ Kennedy | pj.kennedy@citylifestyle.com
AREA DIRECTORS
Todd Kosakowski, Mia Schipani
CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Sarah Bamford
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Angela Strassheim, PJ Kennedy,
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry
VICE PRESIDENT OF SALES Tiffany Slowinski
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson
DIRECTOR OF FIRST IMPRESSIONS Jennifer Robinson
TECHNICAL DIRECTOR Josh Klein
CONTROLLER Gary Johnson
AD DESIGNER Rachel Chrisman
LAYOUT DESIGNER Kathy Nguyen
THE
SERIES EXPERIENCE THE THRILL OF A LIVE, FULL ORCHESTRA
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 14, 2023 AT 7:30PM
SUNDAY, OCTOBER 15, 2023 AT 3:00PM
Antonín Dvořák’s Violin Concerto is interpreted by virtuoso violinist Midori as part of a joyous program to open the season.
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 11, 2023 AT 7:30PM
SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 12, 2023 AT 3:00PM
Sergei Rachmaninoff’s magnificent Piano Concerto No. 2 is paired with Edward Elgar’s exuberant Enigma Variations.
SATURDAY, MARCH 9, 2024 AT 7:30PM
SUNDAY, MARCH 10, 2024 AT 3:00PM
A special performance with varied musical performance and narration brings Mozart’s greatest works, including the Jupiter Symphony, to life.
SATURDAY, MAY 4, 2024 AT 7:30PM
SUNDAY, MAY 5, 2024 AT 3:00PM
Nicolai Rimsky-Korsakov’s epic Scheherazade recasts four tales from ArabianNights in music of unmatched color and power.
Where neighbors can see and be seen.
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COLUMBUS PARK, appetizers, homemade pastas, fresh fish and great wine list. A fun and fashionable location where the food and sevice are exceptional.
COLUMBUS PARK, centrally located in downtown Stamford, boasts of its extraordinary appetizers, homemade pastas, fresh fish and great wine list. A fun and fashionable location where the food and sevice are exceptional.
COLUMBUS PARK'S small-to-medium sized private parties such as corporate affairs, rehearsal dinners and family events. Columbus Park Trattoria will help to make your party unforgettable at a cost which is surprisingly affordable.
COLUMBUS PARK'S private dining room can accommodate 64 people. Specializing in small-to-medium sized private parties such as corporate affairs, rehearsal dinners and family events. Columbus Park Trattoria will help to make your party unforgettable at a cost which is surprisingly affordable.
Orchestra Lumos shines brilliantly across Fairfield County. Led by one of America’s foremost conductors, Michael Stern. Blazing with the intensity and artistry you’d expect only in New York City, Orchestra Lumos welcomes, celebrates and engages our richly varied communities. Whether you’re a classical aficionado, a first-time concertgoer seeking a fun night out, or a family looking for an entertaining afternoon, you’ll be thrilled, entranced, and recharged. Visit www.OrchestraLumos.org for more information.
Get in touch by heading over to our landing page to connect: CityLifestyle.com/StamfordCT
You enter the venue, excitement and anticipation mounting. Among the din of animated chatter, you navigate the crowd to locate your seat. Expectations are mounting. Then, there’s a moment when the air changes. The lights go dark. And out of nothing comes the sound of the first note… then another and suddenly the music surrounds you, fills the air, fills you. At this moment, you know, a memory is being born.
If you have ever attended a great concert –indoors or out, you understand the power of live music. And, hopefully, you purchased your ticket easily because you had seen a poster or ad somewhere. You were able to comfortably enjoy the fantastic performance in front of your eyes – the talent, sound, lights, video, special effects, food, drink, security, staff, and so much more – without a thought. You simply enjoyed the event. That magic doesn’t happen on its own.
There are many folks who produce concerts and events. A few are notable. But I doubt there’s anybody out there who loves doing it as much as Jimmy Koplik.
If you’ve ever organized a fundraiser, wedding or concert, you understand the details involved. How
“I’m a music fan. I became a fanatic when the Beatles came out. I want people to feel good about their experience.”
many people? 100? 500? 5000? Now, imagine… 600,000! Your artists are: The Allman Brothers, The Grateful Dead and The Band. Ladies and gentlemen, meet the producer of Watkins Glen Summer Jam, Jimmy Koplik. Historians claim that Watkins Glen was the largest gathering of people in the history of the United States.
The first thing you notice about the white-haired rock and roll legend (How many people can say Mick Jagger sang happy birthday at their 40th?) is the sparkle in his eyes. His boyish charm lights up when talking about music. His favorite band – The Grateful Dead.
He worked on Bobby Kennedy’s Presidential campaign with plans for a life in politics. That all changed. So much was changing. It was 1968. It was about that time when best friend Jerry Lemler suggested they produce a concert. They did. And Jimmy found his calling.
Years later, Jimmy and Shelly Finkle produced some of the biggest rock and roll concerts including 1973’s Summer Jam at Watkins Glen. The two partnered for twenty-five years. Finkle turned toward boxing while Koplik moved toward Live Nation through Cross Country Concerts, Metropolitan, SFX, and Clear Channel Entertainment. Jimmy ran Live Nation for New York City and Philadelphia for four years. He is now the Live Nation President of Connecticut and Upstate New York.
He’s produced the biggest bands including: The Rolling Stones, Paul McCartney, Bruce Springsteen, Elton John, Madonna, Pearl Jam and Billy Joel. “I’m a music fan. I became a fanatic when the Beatles came out. I love seeing the smiles on the faces of the fans. They spent their money. I want them to feel good about the experience.”
You can find Mr. Koplik in his Bridgeport office at Hartford Healthcare Amphitheater. He and Howard Saffan, partners for twenty years, have worked hard to create the best venue for artists to perform and for an audience to enjoy. The attention to detail in the acoustics and overall comfort really does make this an ideal venue to enjoy your favorite artists.
Howard smiles as he talks about how they line the long hallway from green room to the stage with framed photos of the evening’s artist. “They absolutely love it! Sting called to ask if I could send him one of the photos. Ringo took all of his. They walk to the stage remembering when a photo was taken. They’re laughing. It’s great.”
Attention to detail is the hallmark of the 5,700 seat boutique arena. The Hartford Healthcare Amphitheater is designed to wow! This joint music venture between Hartford Healthcare Amphitheater and the City of Bridgeport in association with Live Nation is the live music entertainment destination for the region.
Jimmy’s son, Jeremy, has been with Live Nation for twenty years. He grew up backstage at concerts. Whereas Jimmy loves doing it for the fun, Jeremy gets excited about the business side. They are a perfect team. Jimmy gets to book all the talent over seventy. Jeremy gets the rest. Along with Howard and a dedicated team, they create magic for thousands. You MUST put a performance at the Hartford Healthcare Amphitheater on your Must Do list.
Another Must Do is the Sound on Sound Music Festival. This year, its second will be held September 30 and October 1 at Seaside Park. The two-day experience nestled on the shores of Long Island Sound, features Red Hot Chili Peppers, Connecticut’s own – John Mayer, Alanis Morissette, Hozier, Nathaniel Rateliff & the Night Hawks and the list goes on.
Sound On Sound brings together worldclass performing artists, renowned local eateries, craft breweries, a variety of wine and spirits and much more for an unforgettable weekend in Fairfield County. It’s an event where you can eat, drink, dance – look up at the stars and smile as you realize…a memory is being born.
At 72, he’s not slowing down. Bringing joy to so many people is what drives Jimmy. He’s a memory-maker. There’s a sign that hangs on Jimmy’s wall. It’s the lyrics from the last song the Beatles recorded. It’s his mantra... And in the end, the love you take is equal to the love you make.
Name: June Laben
AGE: 84
OCCUPATION:
I work in the fur industry on the luxury retail level at Pologeorgis in Greenwich, CT.
WHAT DOES STYLE MEAN TO YOU?
Style to me is very important because it is how we express ourselves. Wearing something colorful and unique is how I like others to see me. It’s about having fun and a great way to lift our mood!
HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR PERSONAL STYLE?
My style is edgy, chic, and unique. My style is to always be current, never let it get stale. My favorite new piece right now is this Pologeorgis three tier shearling jacket in light grey.
WHAT DO YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT LIVING/WORKING IN STAMFORD?
Stamford is a city that offers a multitude of things to do. Whatever interests you may have can be found in Stamford. The proximity to New York is one of the attributes I enjoy! Stamford does have a lot of fine music - we have the Stamford Symphony Orchestra which certainly can compete with the finest Orchestras, directed by Michael Stern the Son of Isaac Stern! We have great entertainment, fine restaurants, and a mixed community as there are many young people living here and commuting to Manhattan. As well as an older group who have the option of living in senior residences, of which there are many to choose from. I have lived in Stamford for over 50 yrs. I’ve traveled extensively and have been able to compare Stamford to a lot of cities both in this country and Europe.
Jennifer Lanna, Owner of The Home Atelier by Jennifer Lanna, cut the ribbon to her new 1800 sf retail design showroom with Mayor Caroline Simmons, Executive Director of the Stamford Chamber of Commerce - Heather Cavanaugh along with family, clients, vendors and subcontracting partners by her side. All celebrated with a champagne toast to Lanna, wishing her the most success in her newest entrepreneurial venture.
The New Canaan Native makes Stamford her forever home since recently moving back here and investing in her new woman-owned business located at 2627 High Ridge Road. The Home Atelier showroom is conveniently located right off the Merritt Parkway in Stamford, close to Darien, New Canaan, Greenwich, Armonk, Bedford and Pound Ridge. Lanna looks forward to walking clients through her style assessments so that she can help bring their interior design vision to life whether it’s for their dream home or office. Her new and thoughtfully curated space is inspiring and free from interruptions which allows for focused design sessions. With an array of samples, design equipment, and supplies readily available, Jennifer enhances the efficiency of design meetings. But that's not all, The Home Atelier is not just a haven for JLD it is an easily accessible destination for design enthusiasts all over the tri-state area.
Jennifer invites customers to come armed with their inspiration images, existing home finishes, and ideas and guides you through a transformative journey. Her inviting storefront beckons design enthusiasts and homeowners to explore and create personalized schematics. At The Home Atelier, clients are able to browse through the extensive collection of designer fabrics, exquisite wall coverings, stylish furniture, captivating décor and artwork.
ARTICLE BY LAURIE A. GUZDA | PHOTOGRAPHY BY ANGELA STRASSHEIM
The power behind the pickle pals – is in the juice! The particular style and experience of old friends, siblings and a new friend, is the magic formula for the creation of an exciting and timely sports destination venue, Pickleball America.
Pickleball America arrives right on time to feed the hunger of those already addicted to the game and well prepared to introduce those curious to learn. Here’s a game for children, seniors and everyone in-between. So many great ideas never get lifted off the page, unless there is a driving force behind it. Pickleball America is driven by four dynamic friends and their ability to meet the challenges with a solid foundation of respect for what each brings to the table, openness, creativity, experience and a whole lot of humor.
Meet Jay Waldner, 4th Generation Family-Owned Furniture Dealer, of Waldner’s. Jay is a dreamer and a doer. He had a vision for a destination sports facility for many years. It began with baseball and hockey and last year morphed into a Pickleball paradise.
It was then that he discussed his idea with lifelong friend and collaborator, Mia Schipani.
Mia Schipani wears many hats one of which is as a Broker for Houlihan Lawrence. She saw the value of Jay’s vision and began looking for available locations. Mia is also a connector, networker and enjoys meeting people and then connecting and networking some more. She’s smart, sharp, detailed and driven.
Enter Joe Schipani the racquet sports connoisseur and brother of Mia. Joe was a highly competitive tennis star in high school and college. He developed into an accomplished trainer creating and implementing programs for area schools, clubs and organizations. For Joe, sport is brain and body in sync. His programs inspire students to grasp the soul of a sport.
Joe joined Jay and Mia in the search for an ideal location as the project continued to evolve in scope. While networking at a real estate event, Mia met Jay Ross, with Greenwich Realty Development. Her intuition prompted a mention of the pickle project.
Jay Ross is an experienced developer who also shares a passion for sports. His wife, a former tennis player, discovered pickleball while rehabbing from surgery. Joe was intrigued and met with Jay Waldner. You would think that the two would discuss pickleball but you’d be wrong. They discussed everything but, including Zamboni’s.
Each team member has a strong vertical strength and they tend to their bucket. They all have input. They are all wildly creative. At the end of the day, you must let people do what they do best. When asked, what was the secret to their success, a resounding response, RESPECT.
They are driven and can sometimes feel disappointed when others are unable to meet their level of intensity. With that passion, they see opportunities and potential beyond the basic business plan.
Joe lights up talking about education and teaching. Sport is the great leveler of playing fields. Confidence, teamwork and health benefits are gifts to be savored.
Mia’s focus for giving back centers on Women/Girls and Health/Wellness issues. The pickle project easily leans into the health and wellness aspect. But her vision to contribute something unique to women is the creation of Badass Women of Fairfield County. Pickleball America will feature a media broadcasting booth so stay tuned for the Badass Women podcast.
Jay Ross, the quiet giant, favors his attention on mental health issues. He and his wife, Dawn, are active with the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI). Sports are a balm for mental health and Jay will be connecting his enthusiasm for both through Pickleball America to identify ways to give back to the community.
And Jay Waldner, the dreamer, the visionary who simply supports fun. He’s a solid idea guy but with a spark that ignites something exceptional in others. He’s the pied piper. He’s responsible, reliable and diligent. He’s also a big kid. He’s so willing to give of himself, it’s infectious. His grandfather(s) influenced him greatly in what is now a 4th generation business that started in 1939. Working with family and friends is engrained in his DNA.
Best advice from his grandfather is, “Let everybody around you be more important than yourself.”
“LET EVERYBODY AROUND YOU BE MORE IMPORTANT THAN YOURSELF.”Mia and Joe
days
Most of us can say we have that one staple black dress that can be worn at any occasion, and the classic look is not only popular but is elegant and timeless. It is one of the most versatile items we own, never goes out of style and looks good on anyone. But how did this classic look originate?
Prior to the 1920’s, black was reserved for funeral wear, but when Coco Channel made the bold move to print a short, black dress on the cover of Vogue in 1926, all of that changed. The popularity of the black dress skyrocketed, and it became one of the most influential pieces of clothing. Because of its affordability, black remained a popular choice during The Great Depression. The black dress had another boom in popularity when “Breakfast at Tiffany’s’’ debuted, and Audrey Hepburn showcased her iconic black dress with long, black gloves.
We enlisted the help of stylist, Amani Skalacki, to show us how versatile the little black dress can be. “We usually think of the little black dress as a piece you wear to an event. However, because black is so flattering on all body types and skin tones, women have multiple black dresses from casual to evening,” Amani says.
“A sequin dress can be dressed up with heels, or that same dress can be transformed into a casual outfit with the addition of tennis shoes and an oversized blazer or a denim jacket. Transform that strappy dress you have been wearing all summer into an outfit that is perfect for chilly fall temperatures. Add a narrow scarf, a leather jacket and sandals or a tall pointy boot, and you have a whole new look for an evening out,” Amani adds.
If you have a dress in the back of your closet that you haven’t worn in years, don’t be afraid to dust it off and give it new life.
Are you looking for the best cut or style of dress that works best for your body type?
HOURGLASS FIGURE:
• V-necklines
• Cinched-in waistlines
• Tailored/fitted dresses
PEAR OR TRIANGLE
FIGURE:
• Tailored dresses
• Off the shoulder
ATHLETIC FIGURE:
• Embellished
• Ruffles
• Empire waist
• Volume is your friend
APPLE FIGURE:
• Drop waist
• A-line
The dress that all body types can’t go wrong with is a wrap dress of any length.
ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
STYLIST: AMANI SKALACKI
Creating a consistent fitness routine can be challenging, but with the right strategies, you can develop habits that will help you stay on track. Here are three ways to create a consistent fitness routine:
#1: Set realistic and achievable goals: Start by setting specific, measurable, attainable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART) goals for your fitness routine. Break down your goals into smaller milestones that are easier to achieve. By setting realistic goals, you'll be more motivated to stay consistent and track your progress along the way.
#2: Schedule your workouts: Treat your workouts like important appointments and schedule them into your calendar. Choose a specific time of day that works best for you and make it a non-negotiable part of your routine. Consistency is key, so try to stick to your scheduled workout times as much as possible.
#3: Find activities you enjoy: Engaging in activities you genuinely enjoy will make it easier to stick to your fitness routine. Experiment with different types of exercises and workouts to find what you like best. It could be anything from running, cycling, swimming, weightlifting, dancing, or joining group fitness classes. When you enjoy what you're doing, you're more likely to look forward to your workouts and make them a regular part of your routine.
Bonus tip: Accountability and support can also play a significant role in maintaining consistency. Consider finding a workout buddy or joining a fitness community where you can share your progress, challenges, and victories. Having someone to hold you accountable and provide encouragement can greatly enhance your chances of sticking to your fitness routine.
Amanda Margusity (@amandamargusity) is the Lead Instructor at CycleBar Stamford (@cyclebarstamford), the area’s premier dedicated indoor cycling studio. Visit www. cyclebar.com/location/stamford to sign up for your FREE 1st Ride.
A curated selection of the most intriguing upcoming events in our area.
SEPTEMBER 8TH
Norwalk Seaport Oyster Festival
VETERANS MEMORIAL PARK, NORWALK CT | 6:00 PM
September 8 - 10, three days of fun, food, and dazzling free entertainment on multiple stages, plus a myriad of special events for families and friends. Fri 6pm-11pm, Sat 11am-11pm, Sun 11am-8pm — 10 Seaview Avenue, Norwalk, CT 06855
SEPTEMBER 8TH
4th Annual Knobloch Family Farmhouse Lobster & Clam Bake
KNOBLOCH FARM | 6:30 PM
Celebrate the end of summer at the 4th Annual Knobloch Family Farmhouse Lobster & Clam Bake, a casual outdoor New England feast with friends and family on the Fedele Family Farmhouse Plaza. This special supper supports the bedrock educational programming and operations of the Stamford Museum & Nature Center. www.stamfordmuseum.org
SEPTEMBER 9TH
Arts & Crafts on Bedford
BEDFORD STREET | 10:00 AM
Shop one-of-a-kind handcrafted goods made by local and regional artists. Bedford Street restaurants will be offering extended outdoor patio cafés. Fun for kids too! Check out the Kids Zone in Latham Park featuring fun activities for kids.
SEPTEMBER 9TH
Health Wellness & Lifestyle Expo 2023 Sponsored by Stamford Health
HARBOR POINT | 10:00 AM
Connecticut's largest and premier health and wellness expo featuring 120 exhibitors 8 different zones free health screenings provided by Stamford Health free flu shots provided by ShopRite, activities, free group fitness classes along the stunning Harbor Point boardwalk. Let's GATHER with family and friends to experience the best in health wellness and fitness. Let's GROW mind body and spirit.
SEPTEMBER 23RD
Off-Main Experience 2023 presented by Stamford Murals
MILL RIVER PARK | 12:00 PM
A day filled with fun, creativity, and community at the Off-Main Experience. This event brings together artists, musicians & performers, vendors, and local businesses, transforming Mill River Park into the ultimate local art festival!
SEPTEMBER 30TH
SEASIDE PARK, BRIDGEPORT CT | 12:00 PM
Don't miss this great weekend of world class music, local food & drink and a reimagined experience! Red Hot Chili Peppers, John Mayer, Steel Pulse, Alanis Morissette, Hozier, Ben Harper and MORE!
Get in touch by heading over to our landing page to connect: CityLifestyle.com/StamfordCT
