Stamford, CT April 2024

Money, Time, Health

Letter from the Editor

April is a time for renewal. The trees are budding, the crocuses open their pretty purple petals (say that 3x’s fast), daffodils and tulips come to life. As do we, as we venture out of our warm winter homes. But flowers don’t grow if the seed isn’t planted.

This is our Investment issue. Investment isn’t just about money. It’s about time, love, creativity –it’s looking forward. The seeds we plant today will be our reality of tomorrow.

In this issue, we take a look at The Mellette’s who invested in themselves by creating a business - Dam + West - that serves their family needs while building a brighter future doing what they love.

Jacqui Justice takes a look at investing in your health. She is a rockstar in the nutritional/health industry. We are so excited to share her professional expertise with you.

Sarah Bamford spotlights Maria Rizk, Stamford Branch Manager at The First Bank of Greenwich.

Meet Nate Checketts. He is the CEO of Rhone, activewear for sport and business. He, along with his dad and brother, has built a brand that continues to evolve with investment for both financial growth and social awareness. A business that truly makes a difference.

As an artist, I enjoy meeting and getting to know people who purchase my art. I love to see how they live with it. Art is personal. It’s also an opportunity for investment. (For a hilarious look at the art world, I suggest “Get the Picture” by Bianca Bosker.)

And, speaking of artists, we highlight Angela Strassheim, SCL photographer. She has her MBA from Yale in photography. Her creative vision has been exhibited and collected globally. We invite you to learn more about Angela and her latest project, Reflections. Maybe you would like to participate?

We hope this issue inspires you to plant something new in your personal garden that will flourish in the coming weeks, months... years.

Happy Spring!

LAURIE A.GUZDA, EDITOR @STAMFORDCITYLIFESTYLEMAGAZINE

April 2024

Marty Shapiro | Marty.Shapiro@citylifestyle.com

Laurie A. Guzda | laurie.guzda@citylifestyle.com

Eva Glassman

PJ Kennedy

Sarah Bamford, Jacqui Justice, Marty Shapiro, Laurie

Angela Strassheim, Sports Business Journal

city scene

1: Francine Manfredi (Pickleball America) and Snapology CEO Kimone Johnson 2: Snapology: Leah Kagan (Mayor’s office), Jay Waldner (Pickleball America founder), Kimone Johnson, Edwin Stone 3: Stamford Downtown’s Fire & Ice Event 4: Snapology Open House demonstrations 5: William Labrosciano feeds a baby lamb at Stamford Museum & Nature Center 6: First County Bank Maple Sugar Fest at Stamford Museum & Nature Center 7: Stamford Downtown’s Fire & Ice Event

Members Credit Union offers financial services to anyone living, working, or attending school in Fairfield County, regardless of their financial status. MCU brings services to low-income and immigrant members of our community. All MCU’s full-time staff are Credit Union Certified Financial Counselors and can help members find financial success. More than half of their staff speak Spanish and 60% are immigrants so we represent the members we serve. MCU… Where Dreams Prosper. www.memberscu.coop

His unique style infuses wit and composition into each session. His images are authentic and story-driven with a connection to the subject that is unmistakable. During his accomplished career, Peter has shot editorials for the New York Times, Vanity Fair, Newsweek, Fortune, Town and Country, Architectural Digest, and many others. A short list of subjects includes the last 6 U.S. Presidents. www.peterfreed.com

LLAMA LIPS RESTAURANT

Llama Lips Restaurant opened on East Main Street in Stamford last Fall. It is a family establishment with deep Peruvian roots. They proudly present four generations of treasured recipes, creating an unforgettable culinary experience. At Llama Lips, they believe that every dish they serve should contain a special ingredient –love. The chef’s passion for food and desire to share the rich tapestry of Peruvian cuisine with their guests is what sets them apart.

www.llamalipsperuvian.com

Dam + West

ARTICLE BY LAURIE A. GUZDA

THE JOURNEY

Danielle Kaplowitz is a Stamford native. She met Ramsey Mellette in 2004 while living in Los Angeles. Danielle was working as a professional actor/voice-over talent. She was a fan-favorite on the series, Community. Ramsey a graduate of USC Film School lived in the apartment downstairs. They became fast friends and began dating three years later. They married in 2011. They have two children, Jonah 9 and Maisie 7.

BOUTIQUE VIDEO PRODUCTION CREATING BRANDED CONTENT FOR FORWARD THINKING BRANDS

The couple moved to Stamford in January of 2021 to be closer to family. As they settled into their new lives, they realized that the best choice for their family would be to invest in themselves and their future by creating a business in which they could excel. They wanted to have something that was their own; something that would highlight their talents and creativity while exploring different types of stories and story-telling. “We wanted to build something that we and our family could be proud of.”

Dam + West is a boutique video production studio launched in 2021, specializing in branded content, corporate video, commercials, event capture, sizzles, interviews and more. They bring 35 years of collective experience working in the Entertainment industry. Danielle is the producer and director. Her strengths are working with people and handling all logistics. Ramsey is the creative and technical brain. He is as good at story and editing as he is at understanding all the technical aspects of filming. Because they each bring such unique qualities to the table, they truly complement each other.

“We have a wonderful network of film professionals. On the home front, we are lucky enough to live near family and have amazing friends. We get a lot of encouragement and support which is awesome. It definitely takes a village.”

If you're looking to invest in your company's brand, consider Dam + West. Their client list includes Shiseido, WebMD, healthline, and more. Check out their website to see examples of the high-quality work this young company is creating.

Dam + West Media | www.DamandWest.com

INVEST IN YOUR WELLNESS

ARTICLE BY JACQUI JUSTICE, MS FUNCTIONAL NUTRITIONIST

3 Simple High-Yield Wellness Investment Strategies

In a world that often feels like a non-stop rollercoaster, filled with ups and downs and hairpin turns, making an investment in your wellness might just be the ticket to upgrading your ride.

Here are 3 simple high-yield wellness investment strategies that are sure to pay significant short and long-term dividends: Dietary Investment:

LOWER YOUR SUGAR INTAKE:

Payout: decreased weight/body fat; increased energy; reduced inflammation, blood sugar, cholesterol and blood pressure; more youthful skin.

FITNESS INVESTMENT:

Move your body for 5 minutes every hour to counteract the health hazards of sitting all day:

Payout: increased energy; improved mood; more mental clarity; increased metabolism; increased blood flow; improved heart health; improved posture.

MENTAL HEALTH INVESTMENT:

Start your day with a positive thought:

Payout: improved mood; increased self-confidence; increased productivity; increased resilience to stress; improved overall wellbeing.

Taking the time to make just these small changes can result in improving your overall wellness. So don’t be too busy to prioritize your health - you’re worth it!

@JacquiJustice

RHONE’S NATE CHECKETTS

MAKING A DIFFERENCE

ARTICLE BY MARTY SHAPIRO

I first met Nate Checketts when he was twelve years old. I was selling sponsorships for Madison Square Garden, the New York Knicks and the New York Rangers, and Nate’s father, Dave, was President of the Knicks (and would later go on to be the President and CEO of Madison Square Garden). You could tell back then that Nate was destined to do big things.

Nate

Fast forward thirty years and Nate is the Co-Founder and CEO of Rhone, a premium lifestyle and performance apparel brand, headquartered in Stamford. Founded in 2014 by Nate and his brother, Ben (who is Rhone’s creative director), Rhone entered the activewear market in direct competition with popular brands like Nike and Lululemon. Rhone started as an active brand carried in places like Equinox and SoulCycle, and over time added a commuter line of sports shirts, slacks, and sports coats, which has been a huge success for the company. Nate views Rhone as the next generation of products for work, home, lifestyle and for those who are busy on the go.

2023 was a very busy year for Rhone. They opened 11 retail stores around the country (including one in Westport) and are about to launch a women’s line of performance clothing in May. In fact, just a couple of months ago, Rhone announced a major partnership with the LPGA.

But perhaps the biggest news occurred when Rhone bought out the private equity interest in the business so they could think about the business in a long-term way, led by a group of investors that included co-owner of the Philadelphia 76ers and New Jersey Devils, David Blitzer, co-owner of the Charlotte Hornets, Gabe Plotkin, and football

Nate, Dave and Ben Checketts

legends Tim Tebow and Greenwich’s Steve Young. In addition to this recent group of investors, there are seven professional sports team owners and a myriad of current and former athletes, including NFL Hall of Famer Troy Aikman and former NY Giant Justin Tuck who are betting on Rhone.

Rhone is developing a unique position in the apparel market with their focus on “mental fitness”, which translates to building and outfitting a holistic life and an active performance lifestyle. Checketts says that one of his goals with Rhone is for the company to have a massive impact on mental health.

“WHAT MATTERS MOST IS TAKING CARE OF YOURSELF AND THOSE AROUND YOU.”

Outside of running the company, Nate is the Chairman of the Board of Beyond Type 1, an organization founded in part by Nick Jonas, that is seeking a path to the cure for type 1 diabetes. And last November, just a few days before rival high schools New Canaan and Darien clashed in the famed Turkey Bowl, Nate sponsored a “Stronger Together” event, part of a movement to destigmatize mental health. He brought together 200 high school football players to share a meal and talk about mental health issues. “What matters most is how you’re taking care of yourself and how you’re taking care of those around you”, said Checketts at the event. “Mental health is much bigger than football.”

Why did Nate decide to base the company in Stamford? “Stamford is underrated in terms of talent and expertise,” said Checketts. “There is no shortage of smart, talented, creative people in this area. Stamford is booming. Plus, I wanted a 15-minute commute from my home in Darien, because family always comes first.”

When asked about what he loves about being an entrepreneur, Nate says “I have an emotional attachment to winning, and it feels so much more personal and important when it’s your company.”

The way Rhone is heading, there will be a lot of winning in Nate Checkett’s future.

Rhone's newest Investor: Greenwich's Steve Young

Rhone's Ladies Golf Wear

ANGELA STRASSHEIM

As an artist and editorial photographer, Angela communicates human complexity in the confluence of the every day -  for herself and in the portraiture she creates for others.

She spent eight years in forensic photography while also obtaining an MFA degree from Yale. Two of her proudest moments were invitations to exhibit at the Whitney Biennial in NYC and the Venice Biennale in Italy. This year she is exhibiting at the Centre de Cultura Contemporània in Barcelona and the Museum of Modern Art in Paris.

Currently, Angela is working on a series of portraits through a two-way mirror titled Reflections.

People are invited to her studio. Each person creates a short playlist that evokes emotion, connects to a personal memory, to help share an authentic moment of themselves.  Angela shoots while the subject reflects upon their image in a mirror to capture an authentic moment of vulnerability.

If you would like to participate or learn more about Angela's work, visit: www.angelastrassheim.com

Angela Strassheim is the lead photographer for Stamford City Lifestyle Magazine. Her work is collected globally by museums and individuals including Elton John and Whitney Museum of American Art.

THE MAN IN THE GLASS

When you get what you want in your struggle for self  And the world makes you king for a day. Just go to the mirror and look at yourself And see what that man has to say.

- Peter Dale Wimbrow Sr 1934

ARTICLE BY LAURIE A. GUZDA PHOTOGRAPHY BY ANGELA STRASSHEIM

Reflections - an invitation from a World Renowned Photographer

Art of Investing... in Art

TIPS TO HELP YOU GET STARTED.

ARTICLE BY LAURIE A. GUZDA

LA Guzda

Theodor Seuss Geisel

Art investing is an alternative option that combines the love for aesthetics with potential financial gains. If you are considering venturing into the world of art investment, it is important to understand the key aspects and factors that can influence your success.

Artworks have the power to evoke emotions, tell stories, and connect with viewers on a deep level. Often the best reason to invest in a piece of art is that it speaks to you personally.

1. Research and Education: Before diving into art investing, it is crucial to educate yourself about the art market. Familiarize yourself with different art styles, artists, art movements, and the overall art market trends. Attend art exhibitions, art fairs, auctions, visit museums, and read books or articles on art investment. The more you know, the better equipped you will be to make informed investment decisions.

2. Set Investment Goals: Clearly define your investment goals. Are you looking for long-term appreciation or short-term gains? Do you prefer to invest in established artists or emerging talent? Understanding your objectives will help you narrow down your focus and make targeted investment choices.

3. Build a Diversified Portfolio: Like any investment, diversification is key. Spread your investments across different artists, styles, mediums, and time periods. This helps mitigate risk and increases the potential for returns. Consider investing in a mix of established artists with a proven track record and emerging artists with potential for growth.

4. Authenticity and Provenance: When investing in art, ensure that the artwork is authentic and comes with proper documentation. Verify the provenance, which is the artwork's history of ownership, to establish its legitimacy. Working with reputable galleries, auction houses, or art advisors can help ensure the authenticity and provenance of the artworks you consider.

5. Market Trends and Demand: Stay informed about current market trends and art market dynamics. Research which artists are in demand, which styles are popular, and how the market is evolving. Understanding the demand-supply dynamics can help you make strategic investment decisions.

6. Seek Expert Advice: Consider working with art consultants, advisors, or galleries who have expertise in the art market. They can provide valuable insights, guide you through the investment process, and help you identify promising investment opportunities. Their knowledge and experience can be invaluable, especially for novice art investors.

7. Patience and Long-Term Perspective: Art investing is a long-term game. Artworks may take time to appreciate in value, and there may be fluctuations in the market. It is essential to have patience and a long-term perspective, allowing your investments to grow and mature over time.

8. Maintenance and Insurance: Properly maintain and protect your art investments. Ensure that artworks are stored in suitable conditions to preserve their quality. Additionally, consider obtaining art insurance to safeguard your investments against damage, theft, or loss.

9.  Emerging Artists: While established artists are often seen as safer investment options, emerging artists can offer unique opportunities for growth. Investing in emerging artists requires careful consideration. Look for artists with a distinct style, recognition from art institutions, positive critical reviews and a growing collector base.

Art investing should be approached with a long-term perspective, patience, and a genuine passion for art. By staying informed, seeking expert advice, and carefully selecting your investments, you can enjoy the potential for both personal enjoyment and possible returns on your investment. Enjoy your journey.

“Art Investing is NOT without risks. The art market can be unpredictable, and it requires careful consideration and due diligence.”

Personal Spotlight

Maria Rizk, Stamford Branch Manager - The First Bank of Greenwich

NAME:  Maria Rizk

AGE: 60

OCCUPATION:  Stamford Branch Manager at The First Bank of Greenwich

THIS ISSUE IS ALL ABOUT INVESTING. HOW DO YOU INVEST IN YOURSELF?

One of the ways I invest in myself is to find time to do things that make me happy. I like to spend time with my grandchildren and take long walks at the beach. These things recharge me. I enjoy learning new things and think it’s important to keep challenging myself. Right now I am learning to speak Italian and determined to speak the language when we take a family trip later this year!

WHY DID YOU CHOOSE STAMFORD AS A PLACE TO LIVE/WORK/PLAY?

I moved to the area in the late 90s after spending a couple of years in London. Stamford is a wonderful place to raise a family. There are so many options for education, recreation, employment, and

healthcare. Stamford has wonderful public and private schools, and a world-class public university. There are 3 beaches, 132 restaurants, 2 public golf courses, 3 theatres, a performing arts center, a nature center, multiple sports facilities, parks, and a five-star hospital. Stamford is thriving economically, with about 20,500 active businesses. If you are looking for employment, chances are you will find it in Stamford.

WHAT BUSINESS AND INVESTMENT ADVICE DO YOU HAVE FOR OTHERS IN THE COMMUNITY?

I recommend everyone check out The First Bank of Greenwich. We are a small, but mighty community bank focused on forging extraordinary partnerships with our customers. We offer personal and commercial banking products, insured by the FDIC. Reach out if you want a friendly, knowledgeable team of bankers who are always there when you need them.

ARTICLE BY SARAH BAMFORD @HYBRIDMEDIACOMM

events

APRIL 3RD

Snapshot Quest Scavenger Hunt

City Center 59 Benstone St Stamford, CT 06905 | 12:00 AM

Snapshot Quest is a fun, creative and challenging activity for all ages. It is a cross between a scavenger hunt, a photography competition, and a party game! All you need to participate is some creativity and your mobile device with a data connection. Tickets available. snapshotquest.com

APRIL 5TH

Lady A: An Evening with Lady A

Palace Theatre | 8:00 PM

Over the course of their decade-plus career, Lady A has become one of the 21st century’s premier vocal groups, blending deeply felt emotions with classic Country sounds. As a country radio staple, the trio has amassed record-breaking success ushering in 10 No. 1 hits with more than 18 million albums sold and nearly 5 billion digital streams.

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events

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APRIL 21ST

Farm & Forest All-Terrain 5K Run

Stamford Museum & Nature Center | 8:00 AM

This exciting new benefit run explores the vast terrain and many wonders of the SM&NC’s extraordinary 118-acre site. Route will include paved paths throughout Heckscher Farm, scenic nature trails, wooden boardwalks and more. Rain or shine!  Race starts promptly at 8:15am at the Knobloch Family Farmhouse Plaza. Must be 16+ to participate.

APRIL 21ST

Arbor Earth Day

Bartlett Arboretum & Gardens 151 Brookdale Road Stamford, CT 06903 | 11:00 AM

Enjoy the natural beauty of Bartlett Arboretum and a fun-filled family event of art and education programs celebrating Earth Day.

APRIL 28TH

Sesame Street Live! Say Hello

The Palace Theatre | 2:00 PM

In Sesame Street Live! Say Hello, you can sing and dance with your favorite furry friends while enjoying fun surprises along the way. So put on your dancing shoes for this all-new celebration on Sesame Street. Audience members also have the option to ‘Say Hello’ to their favorite Sesame Street Live characters by adding on the Meet & Greet photo opportunity.

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.

100% blue weber agave

Harvested from rich volcanic soil