









CULINARY• EVENTS • LIFESTYLE


Growing up in Glenbrook, I was one of the “Courtland Cuties” along with besties Susan Welsh and Diane Shortelle. We played dress up, built forts; we captured the flag in Courtland Park. In high school, it was Cindy Corolla and Diane Densky. We listened to a lot of music and learned about boys. The college years started lifelong friendships with Lynne Colatrella and Debbie DeCarlo Rosa. There are many “sisters” throughout my life that have shaped the person I am today.
There’s my own sister, Nancy and Linda along with my goddaughters, Livia and Jillian. My “Spirit Daughters” who continue to teach and amaze me. I suppose my respect for the feminine spirit begins with my mom, Helen and my other mom, Kathryn; both of whom have been great teachers and friends.
The power of sisterhood is significant throughout my life. Sisters are strong and sensitive, powerful and pliable, thoughtful and resourceful. With a sisterhood, you can move mountains. They show up and participate even when you don’t know yourself what you need. I am grateful for all of these incredible women.
Women - the fierce powerful goddess warriors that we are. We are sisters, mothers, daughters, wives, bosses, aunts, artists, scientists and more. We are the creators. We are the leaders. We juggle, we organize, we connect, we include.
In this, our WOMEN’s issue, we look at the powerhouse team of women leading Stamford’s government. It’s wild that we only now have our first female mayor but that we also have ALL women in the leadership roles of this administration.
We spotlight Melissa H. Mulrooney, truly a force of nature, who heads the day-to-day operations as well as a plan for the future of The Stamford Museum & Nature Center.
You’ll meet the vibrant community leader and investment professional, Marie Rocha.
And, health tips from Jacqui Justice for the changing needs of our bodies.
I'd be remiss not to mention Memorial Day, a time to remember all of the men and women who gave the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom. We thank you.
Happy Mother’s Day to all of the moms out there. Thank you for your service and sacrifice and unconditional love. Also, to the aunties, teachers, friends, stepmoms – because it really does take a village and we are all in this together.
Let's celebrate all of the amazing women in our lives!
LAURIE A. GUZDA, EDITORPUBLISHER
Marty Shapiro | Marty.Shapiro@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Laurie A. Guzda | laurie.guzda@citylifestyle.com
SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR Eva Glassman
AREA COORDINATOR
PJ Kennedy
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Sarah Bamford, Marty Shapiro, Laurie A. Guzda
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Angela Strassheim, PJ Kennedy
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson
TECHNICAL DIRECTOR Josh Klein
AD DESIGNER Laura Paige
LAYOUT DESIGNER Kathy Nguyen
Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com/franchise.
1: Kaster Movers, Gideon Asemnor and Pickleball America’s Francine Manfredi with SCL Publisher Marty Shapiro. 2: Stamford Partnership: Joe Roper, WWE, Jere Eaton, Owner and President of PrintabiliTees, and Byron Soza. 3: Kevin Peraino, Chief Executive Officer, The Stamford Partnership. 4: Isis-Rae Goulbourne, Jodi Guiteriez, Marie Rocha, Mendi Paca, Arthur W. Thomas, Kevin Peraino, Shiv Kumar. 5: Stamford Partnership-Equity in Entrepreneurship: (L-R) James Nicholas, Mendi Blue Paca, Arthur W. Thomas, III. 6: Stamford Partnership - Equity in Entrepreneurship: (L-R) Jon Winkle, Marie Rocha, and Amanda Castellano, 7: SM&NC Opening exhibit: (L-R) Roanne Wilcox, Pat Musick, Jennifer Parry, Melissa Mulrooney, and Lynn Cohen.
Owner Scheri Passero, a 36-year seasoned specialist in practicing Esthetics, has been running The Agora Day Spa since 2019. Agora offers custom aromatherapy massages, lymphatic drainage, custom detailed facials, body treatments and waxing. Each guest gets to experience steam rooms, Swedish showers, robes, towels, slippers and all the amenities you would expect when you visit a spa. Agora is conveniently located on the second floor of the Stamford Marriott Hotel with garage-validated parking. www.agoradayspact.com
The Stamford Woman’s Club was founded in 1905 by 28 Stamford women who wanted to make a difference. This 114-year-old organization is comprised of civic-minded women who support the Stamford community. SWC has contributed nearly $1 million in the form of scholarships to high school students and UConn undergraduates, donations to the food bank, historical society, library, Hospice, Girl Scouts and many other charities. To learn how you can contribute, go to www.stamfordwomansclub.com
When most physicians are joining corporate medical groups, Saryna Young, MD, FAAD decided in July 2020, at the height of the pandemic, to hang a shingle for her independent solo practice, Young Skin Dermatology. She provides evidence-based and personalized care to patients. The patient-doctor relationship is always the focus whether doing a skin cancer screening, treating acne or a Botox refresh. At Young Skin … it’s all about your skin. www.youngskinmed.com
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Stamford resident Rachel Kornfeld, CEO of Jewish Family Services of Greenwich, is making an impact across the city, tackling the mental health crisis by removing barriers to services. JFS of Greenwich brings clinicians directly to children and families throughout Stamford at afterschool programs and community centers. The agency provides individual, group, and couples therapy both in-person and via telehealth. JFS of Greenwich is led by a team of highly qualified professionals. www.JFSGreenwich.org
The Art of Control (AOC) is a classical Pilates studio directed by Simona Cipriani, a second-generation Pilates instructor who trained extensively with Romana Kryzanowska, a direct disciple of Joseph Pilates. Simona has been an instructor of Pilates for 30 years and is also a teacher-of-teachers, running a certification program in the United States and internationally for people to become certified in the classical Pilates method. The Art of Control has two locations in Stamford. www.artofcontrol.com
Whether you're looking for a one-ofa-kind piece to add to your collection or searching for the perfect gift for a loved one, Charmed by Wendy has something for everyone. What sets Wendy’s jewelry apart is her commitment to creating pieces that are not only beautiful but also meaningful. Wendy believes that jewelry is not just an accessory, but a way to express oneself and create connections with others. Shop the latest collection at www.ShopCharmedbyWendy.com
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“Do your job with integrity. Find work that is challenging, satisfying and demands creativity.”
Stamford has been blessed to have the Stamford Museum & Nature Center as part of its community for 88 years, and the SM&NC has been blessed to have Melissa H. Mulrooney at its helm for the past eighteen.
As Executive Director and CEO, Melissa has overseen tremendous growth in all facets of the business, despite the economic recession of 2008 and the COVID-19 pandemic. She has built a highly regarded organization with a creative vision and innovative Master Plan that is poised to lead the SM&NC into the future.
Melissa has been a beacon of grace and integrity since joining the Stamford community in 2005. She attributes much of that to her heroes; her mother Vidge, whom she calls her idol, her advocate and her most challenging and generous teacher, and her father Hitch, whom she refers to as the original “officer and a gentleman”, a war hero, a POW in the Korean War, and a professor at the Air Force Academy during Melissa’s childhood.
“Growing up in the fifties and sixties was a very heady and interesting time for culture and civil rights consciousness,” said Melissa. “John F. Kennedy was my first President. He and Jackie were so gorgeous and youthful, and this is where I began to understand leadership, celebrity, civility, taste, and grace.” Her formative years were also molded by the civil rights movement, women’s rights, social change, war, and turmoil. Culturally, music and theatre were at the center of Melissa’s life, as both her parents were Equity actors and singers. The Beatles, Barbra Streisand, Joni Mitchell, Broadway shows, opera - all helped to shape the force of nature that was the soul of Melissa.
Through all this, Melissa developed a life philosophy that she still lives by: “Be kind. Saying
‘thank you’ costs nothing. Surround yourself with those that share your values and fill you with gut-busting laughter.”
After graduating from the University of Delaware with degrees in Theater Performance and English Literature, her first big job was at the Delaware Art Museum, where she spent ten years in marketing and communications, and getting to know a State Senator, who would later become the President of the United States, Joe Biden.
In 1994, Melissa was handpicked to be the Executive Director of the International Tennis Hall of Fame Museum, where she oversaw a $10 million renovation and personally inducted several of her heroes, including Chris Evert, Martina Navratilova, Jimmy Connors, Rosie Casales and John McEnroe. She also created the US Open Gallery at the USTA National Tennis Center.
Life has also thrown Melissa some curve balls, with the tragic loss of her mother when Melissa was just 35 years old, and the deaths of her two beloved brothers, Skip and Sean. But she dug deep and found lessons she learned from her father: “Pause. Breath. Allow yourself the time and space to think, remember, and feel deeply. Feeling deeply heals.”
Today, Melissa and her diverse team have continued excellence in programming while expanding the state-of-the-art facilities to include the Knobloch Family Farmhouse (opened 2018) and the Planetarium & Astronomy Center currently under construction.
Melissa's warmth and caring is evident. She exudes a passion for life. When asked, what would be the title of your movie, “Who Knew?! A Museum life of Change and Wonder.”
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.
We utilize the latest technology to revitalize the skin through innovative stimulation of the production of new collagen.
Youngskinmed.com
Please visit our website to learn more about Sofwave, the only FDA approved non-invasive lifting technology to lift the brow, jowls, and neck area, as well as to improve overall tone and texture of the skin.
Skin Dermatology was
in 2020 as a comprehensive practice for the whole
We treat medical concerns and do cosmetic consultations for treatments from botox to lasers.
While the principals of healthy eating remain constant over a lifetime, here are the top nutritional “to do”s” for each decade:
20’s: Build a strong foundation: Set the stage for your future wellness. Focus on eating a well-balanced, nutrient-dense diet rich in:
• Colorful veggies and fruit
• Lean protein
• Healthy fats
• Whole grains
30’s: Support skin and bone health: Bone density and collagen begin to decline as early as our 30’s. Work on adding the following dietary nutrients:
• Collagen
• Vitamins C, D, K
• Calcium
• Magnesium
40’s: Maintain a healthy weight: Hormonal changes can slow metabolism. Work on making these dietary changes:
• Avoid refined carbohydrates, sugar.
• Cut down on wine (sugar on steroids)
50’s, 60’s and Beyond: Youthful Aging: Aging brings about new challenges. The focus is decreasing inflammation, maintaining muscle mass and being heart healthy. Work on:
• Prioritizing protein to preserve muscle mass
• Increasing fiber to decrease cholesterol
• Increasing Omega-3’s to lower inflammation
Name: Marie Rocha
Age: 44
Occupation: Investor
HOW DOES BEING A WOMAN EMPOWER YOU?
Empowerment takes on a deeply personal and multifaceted form, unique to each individual. For me, it involves nurturing resilience while confronting stereotypes surrounding women. In my early 20s, I struggled with much of that because I did not have a roadmap. However, with time, I discovered my voice and utilized it to advocate for change, establish businesses, and carve out a presence in male-dominated spheres.
WHAT ADVICE DO YOU GIVE THE NEW GENERATION OF WOMEN?
I frequently advise young women to seek out mentors as soon as possible, as having guidance early on could have spared me many challenges. I also emphasize the importance of passionately pursuing one's interests by exploring activities and opportunities that spark enthusiasm from a young age. This includes actively seeking internships and experiences through connections such as aunts, uncles, and family friends,
even during high school. I admire the efforts of organizations like LiveGirl/Sheworks, which strive to provide such opportunities for young women who may lack supportive networks. It took me a while to accept myself fully. During my teenage years, I often compared myself to unrealistic standards and coveted things that weren't necessarily right for me.
WHAT MAKES STAMFORD SUCH A GREAT PLACE FOR WOMEN, PERSONALLY AND PROFESSIONALLY? Stamford holds a special place in my heart! Its vibrant and diverse community offers a wealth of activities that I thoroughly enjoy. From comedy to great restaurants and growing culture. I've discovered numerous opportunities for women to partake in enriching experiences and connect with others who share similar interests. The city's proximity to New York City opens doors to additional professional opportunities, cultural events, and networking possibilities, making it an ideal place for me. I'm grateful to have raised my children here and to be surrounded by a supportive community of parents, friends, partners, and talented professional colleagues.
ARTICLE BY SARAH BAMFORDWomen are fierce, loyal, dedicated... the original creators.
"Great leadership is about attracting the best people for the right position, give them direction and support and let them do what they do best."
I didn’t plan for this article to be about moms or the fact that Caroline Simmons is the first female mayor of Stamford but upon meeting the Mayor and her cabinet of six extraordinary women, it was hard not to.
Six of the seven women are moms, some with very young children. In fact, Caroline delivered her child shortly after winning her election. Rachel Alonso-Medoza was seven months pregnant when she interviewed for her position as Special Assistant to the Mayor for Communications. Why is this important?
Most moms are the driving force behind their family dynamic. They are CEO, CFO, chef, organizer, educator, problem-solver, healthcare worker and so much more. It only makes sense that these qualities translate to effective governing.
If you think there is a secret for balancing family and work, there is not. They face the same challenges that all working moms deal with. But they have an environment that supports them and that makes a big difference. They approach their jobs with the same ‘mom’ fierceness and commitment and that is the “special sauce” that sets them apart.
They all consider themselves good listeners which is essential in identifying the problems at hand as well as create solutions. And, they are all focused on contributing to the betterment of the City. They care about people and the impact of their choices.
“I want to know that my administration made Stamford a more inclusive, equitable place and a city of opportunity for everyone that allows people from all backgrounds to pursue their dreams and passions,” said Caroline.
What surprised Carmen Hughes, Director of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, most about her position? “I was surprised to learn that Stamford is the 16th most diverse city in this nation and on a mid-city size (100,000 - 300,000 residents) it is the 5th most diverse city in the nation. We all have a lens for inclusivity and are constantly thinking outside the box to solve problems to make Stamford a more equitable, inclusive, innovative, vibrant and accessible city for all.”
Leah Kagen, Director of Economic Development, is passionate about the economic strength of the City. There is a balance to support corporations as well as family-owned businesses. Her office is dedicated to attracting new business but also determined to help small business development.
Janeene Freeman, Director of Community Partnerships and Engagement, is a problem-solver who provides guidance while connecting organizations to maximize efforts and coordinating through city departments. Mayor Simmons's administration makes this work even more meaningful because it’s a priority to make government more responsive to the residents.
Bridget Fox, Chief of Staff, serves as a conduit of information to the Mayor and assists with efficient responses to city departments and external stakeholders. She’s a people connector who finds great joy in problem-solving.
Lauren Meyer, Special Assistant to the Mayor for Legislative Affairs, has previously worked in state government. She has been on this journey with Caroline Simmons from the beginning. She is focused and dedicated to ensuring that this administration works hard every day making the right decisions that positively impact people’s lives.
What is Mayor Simmons most proud of at this point? “I’m most proud of the hundreds of millions of dollars in state and federal funding we have been able to secure for our schools, parks, and infrastructure, allowing us to prioritize investing in our infrastructure in a sustainable and equitable way for future generations to come and enhancing quality of life for residents.”
Dream big and don’t let anyone tell you what you can or cannot do. – Lauren Meyer
Empower and lift each other up. Be yourself and stand up for what you believe. – Rachel Alonso-Mendoza
Get good at something you love to do, work hard to get better, and have confidence in your abilities. Try to feel comfortable hearing your own voice at a young age and challenge yourself by trying new things and saying yes to invitations. – Bridget Fox
Every morning, I want all girls (of all ages - young and old) to look at themselves in the mirror every morning and say, "Good morning
beautiful! What are we going to make happen today?" Start your day with positive affirmations, be kind to yourself, empower yourself. – Carmen Hughes
Stay curious and open to new things! The things you find interesting at a young age may change when you are in your 20s and 30s and beyond. – Leah Kagen
My advice for young girls is to be brave and bold, and to go after what they want. Don’t let someone else put limits on you. I have a teenage daughter who is fearless. I’d like to think that is because I encouraged her to try new things, even if they scared me. – Janeene
FreemanMy parents encouraged me and my siblings to think about the injustices that persist today and to make sure we are using our voices to speak up and get involved in our communities. – Mayor Simmons
Saturday, May 4 at 7:30pm
Sunday, May 5 at 3:00pm The Palace Theatre 61 Atlantic Street,
Indulge in Tuscan serenity, savor life’s richness, and rediscover yourself
The soft morning light filters through the curtains as you awake to birdsong and a gentle breeze. Stepping onto the balcony, you behold endless vineyards rippling in the Tuscan hills and can’t believe this paradise is real.
Walking downstairs, you’re greeted by many new faces of people smiling and excited to see you, new friends, gathered around a long wooden table immaculately set with steaming quiche, luscious fruit, warm bread, and Italian cappuccino.
This is just the beginning of days spent practicing yoga in nature’s rhythms, discovering ancient towns, and pausing to savor beauty at every turn.
If you can envision waking up like this, you’re ready for a yoga retreat with Scott Moore.
Retreats are an investment—in your truest self—the part of you that gets lost in the rush of daily life.
We frequently invest our money into stocks, bonds, and real estate, yet fail to invest in the one irreplaceable resource that makes it all possible, ourselves—our true wealth.
On this journey, all details have been meticulously planned so you can stay within your budget and fully relax into the experience.
After immersing in the richness of the present moment, slowing down and savoring life, you’ll return replenished and ready to bring this mindset of appreciation into your everyday world.
Reap the returns of a broadened perspective and renewed vitality—the dividends are endless.
Find out more about upcoming retreats with Scott Moore in destinations like Tuscany, Sardinia, Bordeaux, and the French Riviera at scottmooreyoga.com/retreats .
Making homemade bread is coming back, and while the convenience of buying a pre-made loaf is readily available, there is nothing like the taste of a warm, homemade loaf right out of the oven. This easy-to-follow recipe is exploding with flavor and is simple to make.
This recipe is quick and easy to make with just a few simple steps. It tastes great on its own, but dipping it in olive oil infused with fresh herbs adds an extra level of flavor.
INGREDIENTS:
• 1 ¾ cups warm water
• 2 ½ teaspoons sugar
• 1 package active dry yeast
• 4 cups flour
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 4 tablespoons olive oil
• Optional:
• Fresh rosemary
• Coarse sea salt
• Fresh pressed garlic
INSTRUCTIONS:
Use a stand mixer with a fitted dough hook, and stir together the water and sugar. Sprinkle the yeast on top and stir again. Set mixture aside for 5 minutes. Mixture should be foamy. Next, add the flour and salt and mix on low until a shaggy dough forms. Increase speed and mix for an additional 4-5 minutes. Brush a large bowl with olive oil. Transfer the dough to the bowl and cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a damp towel. Set aside for about 1 to 1 ½ hours until the dough has doubled in size.
Brush a 9x13-inch baking dish with 2 tablespoons of oil. Uncover the dough and rub hands with olive oil. Slide your hands under the dough and fold it onto itself. Continue to work your way around the edge of the bowl, folding the dough onto itself until there is a ball that you can lift from the bowl. Place the dough in the prepared pan and press the dough to the edges. Cover the pan with plastic wrap or a damp towel and set aside to rise for about 45 minutes until the dough has doubled in size.
Preheat the oven to 425°F. Drizzle the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil over the dough. Rub your hands with olive oil and use your fingers to make indentions on the surface of the dough. Sprinkle it with salt and rosemary and any desired toppings. Bake for 20-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Friday, May 3 | 6:30 – 8:30 pm
Part of our BevMax Tasting Series, come savor the flavor at a night of taco tasting and tequila exploration in our Knobloch Family Farmhouse alongside seasoned ambassadors from exceptional tequila brands. Enjoy an array of authentically made tacos and sides prepared using the freshest ingredients. Adults 21+ only.
Me mbers: $75 | Non-Members: $80
Thursday, June 13 | 6 – 8 pm
One of our most popular Nights Out returns! Join us for an evening on Heckscher Farm to meet and greet our new spring babies, help to groom or walk some Farm animals, and make your own maple butter from scratch to take home! Once you finish your chores, sit back and enjoy some light refreshments and a sweeping view of the Farm on our Overlook Terrace.
Members: $25 | Non-Members: $30
Friday, June 28 | 6:30 – 8:30 pm
We'll transform the Fedele Family Farmhouse Plaza into a magical outdoor Beer Garden for an evening of laid-back beer exploration, delicious bites, and entertainment by live band, Zully Ramos & The OGs. BevMax brand ambassadors will help guide your experience and place orders for any craft beers you wish to purchase after sampling. Adults 21+ only.
MAY 3RD
Curtain Call's Dressing Room Theatre | 8:00 PM
Chris O’Neill & Paul Valenti were most recently finalists on NBC’s inaugural season of “Bring the Funny.” "Super funny. Not like anything I've seen before. " - Kenan Thompson "You got all these laughs without saying a word and that's a special skill set. I couldn't stop laughing," -Jeff Foxworthy Performances: May 3 & May 4.
MAY 10TH
The Palace Theatre | 7:00 PM
Members: $75 | Non-Members: $80
From the Yellow Emperor of antiquity to the splendor of the Tang Dynasty all the way to the exquisite elegance of the Qing, the lineage of Chinese civilization runs five millennia deep. It is a story brimming with heroes real and imagined, their legacy preserved in tales of courage and sacrifice, integrity and loyalty, compassion and virtue.
MAY 17TH
Hartford HealthCare Amphitheater, Bridgeport, CT | 7:30 PM
Neil Young + Crazy Horse playing songs from their long relationship. Neil and The Horse have played together for over 50 years. Neil explains, “…made this for the Horse lovers. I can’t stop it. The horse is runnin’. What a ride we have. I don’t want to mess with the vibe. I am so happy to have this to share.”
“ When I started Josh Cellars, I wanted to make wines worthy of pairing with the people you care most for.”
-Joseph Carr, Founder, Josh Cellars