CULINARY• EVENTS • LIFESTYLE
Letter from the Publisher
As we embrace the final days of Summer 2024 and look ahead to Fall, I am delighted to welcome you to the latest edition of Stamford City Lifestyle. This month, our focus is on a topic close to our hearts: Style. Style, in its essence, goes beyond fashion trends or fleeting fads. It is a reflection of who we are, how we perceive ourselves, and how we wish to be perceived by the world. It is both an expression of individuality and a statement of cultural identity. In this issue, you will find an array of stories, profiles and pictorials that explore various facets of style. From art to music to photography, we aim to inspire and ignite your creativity.
You will be introduced to Stuart Yankell, a new resident of Stamford, who has brought his artistic style to our city, creating amazing works of art from a gallery on the Rippowam River steeped in local tradition. You will also get to know Kat and Greg Werlinich, who have started a new music tradition, Riverbank Ramble, literally on the back lawn of their 10-acre property in North Stamford. Mark your calendars for September 21, when the next Ramble festival takes place.
We also feature some amazing “stylish” photography from the artists whose photos have graced the covers and pages of Stamford City Lifestyle over the past 15 issues. As always, we are committed to bringing you content that informs, entertains, and enriches your life. Whether you are a seasoned trendsetter or just beginning to explore your personal style, we hope this issue inspires you to embrace the power of self-expression. Thank you for being part of our community, and, if you haven’t already, follow us on Instagram (@stamfordcitylifestylemagazine).
Thank you as always,
MARTY SHAPIRO, PUBLISHER
September 2024
PUBLISHER
Marty Shapiro | Marty.Shapiro@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Laurie A. Guzda | laurie.guzda@citylifestyle.com
AREA COORDINATOR
PJ Kennedy
SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR
Eva Glassman
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Sarah Bamford, Marty Shapiro, Jay Cohen, Jim inner Jr, Angela Strassheim, Laurie A. Guzda, Jacqui Justice
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Bob Capazzo, Jay Cohen, Jim inner Jr, Angela Strassheim, Laurie A. Guzda
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Mary Albers
LAYOUT DESIGNER Kathy Nguyen
inside the issue
SEPTEMBER 2024
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1: Ramya Shaw, Jessica Vandervoort, Bianca Shinn, Versha Munshi-South at CT Tech Week. 2: Malik Okoro, Kevin Peraino, Paul Robertson, Matthew McCooe, Jordan Lue at CT Tech Week. 3: Our favorite nutrition expert, Jacqui Justice, sporting some SCL style. 4: Isis Rae Goulbourne, Marie Rocha, Jon Winkel kick off CT Tech Week. 5: SM&NC received New Canaan Community Foundation funding for “Animals for All” a free experiential series. 6: Amanda Castellano, Robert Kornhass, Alex Ramos enjoy a panel discussion during CT Tech Week. 7: Pasquale Cardone and Chris Crain, SSC Executive Director at the annual Stamford Senior Center Olympics.
HOW CAN WE BEST SERVE THOSE WHO SERVED?
We’ve all thanked a veteran in one way or another. At the airport, in a parade, through a donation. As well we should. America’s military veterans didn’t just volunteer—they set aside years of their lives to defend our country, its values, and its allies. These 18 million men and women represent an essential strength of the U.S., embodying the nation’s spirit of public service, courage, selflessness, and leadership. Upon their return to civilian life, some service members transition easily, transferring their skills to civilian jobs and reentering the embrace of their families and communities. But this is not the case for all veterans. Many bring back with them traumas and injuries—physical or mental—that can last a lifetime.
When veterans can’t access the help they need, we all suffer— veterans and their families most of all. Those who need support deserve to be treated with respect by the nation for which they have sacrificed so much. In short, those who served deserve to be served.
Philip Morris International (PMI) has launched a nationwide initiative to empower the veterans community and support these men and women through national and local programs. We are sponsoring organizations with a track record of improving veterans’ lives, partnering with law schools in select communities to help veterans access benefits, and supporting military veterans and their spouses as we expand our business across the U.S.
Individually and collectively, we have an opportunity to do something meaningful for America’s veterans. Working together, with an eye to the future, we can deliver measurable progress so all veterans have a fair shot at succeeding at home, at work, and in their communities.
See how we can better serve those who served DOWNLOAD THE WHITE PAPER
Mike Moore - Stamford Downtown’s New Executive Director
Stamford Downtown welcomes Mike Moore as its new President. Mike is excited to hit the ground running and help lead Stamford Downtown’s ascendence as the leading center for urban life in the State and region. Mike is dedicated to ensuring Stamford Downtown is a welcome and attractive location for residents, visitors and investors.
remained an iconic Stamford destination, boasting a rich legacy of handrolled cigar craftsmanship. Located on Bank Street, CCC offers an unparalleled experience, where the artistry of cigar rolling meets the sophistication of a curated selection of over 500 premium cigars. At CCC, it’s not just about cigars – it’s an experience, a legacy, and a testament to the timeless artistry of the leaf. www.ctcigarco.com
WOMEN OF STAMFORD
Women of Stamford is a Stamfordbased community of women empowering one another. Since its establishment in 2021, the group has grown from just 10 women, to hosting sold-out events with up to 200 attendees. Women of Stamford has recently launched a membership program, allowing members to attend value-based meetings with seminars and workshops, as well as inviting parties at various WOS member locations. Keep an eye out for updates on the next enrollment period. www.womenofstamford.com
9:30 am - 4:30 pm THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 19 Scan for tickEts or visit stamfordmuseum.org/nightsout Take a chartered day trip with us to discover Hill-Stead Museum, home to a magnificent collection of Impressionist masterpieces by Monet, Degas, Manet, Whistler and Cassatt, and much more.
ANIMALS
Want to be featured?
/animals-for-all
Captivating Portraits
SCL Photographers Share Insights Capturing the Essence of their Subject
Photography is key to Stamford City Lifestyle. Without our talented photographers, our articles would not be as engaging. Today, if you have a phone, you have the ability to photograph. So, what sets images apart? What makes a photograph compelling? What makes a photographer interesting? Sometimes it’s taking a step three inches to the left or adding a prop. Sometimes it’s looking for textures or shadows to enhance the image or shooting from a unique perspective. Four photographers: Jay Cohen, Laurie A. Guzda, Angela Strassheim and Jimmy ienner Jr - share their personal photography style in capturing evocative portraits.
Follow SCL on Insta @StamfordCityLifestyleMagazine
Top Right: Dr Richard Epstein at home. Jimmy ienner Jr
Top Left: Man reading newspaper. Jay Cohen
Bottom: The Wedding Dance. Angela Strassheim
JAY COHEN
www.jcimagesphotography.com | Insta @JayCohen13
After shooting seriously for over 15 years, I now view the world as if looking through a camera. Buildings, street corners, paths in the woods or people interacting, are no longer the sights of everyday life for me but the opportunity to “see” something that others don’t — beauty, art, and inspiring images. “Seeing” is more than observing but putting our surroundings in the context of artistic composition. My eye is drawn to symmetry and simplicity where a subject can stand out from the chaos that normally characterizes the world. There is a calmness and quietness to many of my fine art images, hopefully evoking feelings of tranquility. When photographing people, I try my best to bring out the uniqueness of the person and display the subject’s inner beauty in the image I create.
Top Right: Lia’s beautiful eyes were the big draw here. The red on red approach framed her face spectacularly.
Top Left: Avery has amazing facial features. I used a lighting technique that highlighted those features and his great body as well.
Bottom: Ollie is a fantastic young man with great determination and discipline. I used dramatic lighting and fog to highlight his intensity.
LAURIE A. GUZDA
www.LAGuzda.com | Insta @LAGuzda
I particularly love shooting strangers that I meet along life’s journey. I seek to capture a moment that highlights their personal life story with a focus on strength and beauty… as I see them. My photo style is to present myself as a caring and curious human who sees something interesting in their style and energy. There’s definitely an energy, a vibe that connects. I have no qualm approaching people to ask if I may shoot them. I can count on one hand how many times people have declined. The result is an exchange of that energy in that particular moment. It is respect and affection made visible.
Top Right: His name is Yahweh. Everyday he offers coconuts to the ocean to purify his soul as he prepares for Heaven. He also said that he used to be Sean from Colorado.
Top Left: These young monks in Ankor Thom Cambodia were very willing and playful models. I love the colored robes against the stone.
Bottom: I wanted to capture the intensity of this Grandmother’s blessing in San Miguel.
ANGELA STRASSHEIM
www.angelastrassheim.com | Insta @angelastrassheimphotography
I have been doing photography for as long as I have driven a car. Through the years I have explored many different kinds from forensics to food to portraiture and beyond. Although I started with large-format film cameras I now work mostly digitally. I love connecting with people and gifting them art of themselves. Photography has been my first language in communicating my ideas. I love how a well made image provokes conversation and thought. Typically my process is to set up the perfectly structured frame then document it as it morphs and falls apart. My current interest is when art and life photography merge together in the perfect harmony so that family photos become elevated and more meaningful. A great piece of art isn’t just beautiful- it’s something you can’t stop looking at and brings emotion into your everyday life.
CONTINUED >
Top Right: This is a magical moment of rapture in our lifetime- created by dragging the shutter to create a ghost-like effect.
Top Left: I love the awkwardness of this age. I was experimenting with the idea of “I’m looking at him who is looking back at me” and the exchange of the gaze between us.
Bottom: This image is a visual interpretation of the story of the rapture from the Children’s version of the Bible. What is one child’s dream is another’s nightmare.
JIMMY IENNER, JR. www.ienner.com | Insta @jimmyiennerjr
As a music and celebrity photographer, I feel a strong connection with musicians. Being a Stamford native and nonprofessional musician, I looked to my community for a project featuring local artists. I found the Norwalk Symphony Orchestra. The project is to blend the instrument and the musician with an appropriate environment for distinctive portraits. Nicholas and his trombone felt at home in the warm velvet and subtle lighting of the concert hall. Chié reflects the natural beauty of her music and the wood where the violin originates. Charlie is reminiscent of an all night jazz band heading home in the early morning hours.
Top Right: Violinist Chié Yoshinaka Matejek fills her days teaching young musicians in her Stamford studio. Special Thanks to Bartlett Arboretum
Top Left: Principal Trumpeter Charlie Johnson is the Head Squash Pro at the Yale Club in NYC, comfortable both on and off stage & court.
Bottom: Trombonist Nicholas Martin splits his time with multiple orchestras as well as a general music specialist in the NYC Dept of Education.
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.
Stuart MEET YANKELL
ARTICLE BY MARTY SHAPIRO
PHOTOGRAPHY BY JAY COHEN
If you have lived in Stamford for some time, you undoubtedly know that the early 20th-century sculptor Gutzon Borglum (best known as the sculptor of Mount Rushmore) lived and worked in Stamford. In 1916, Borglum built an extraordinary studio along the banks of the Rippowam River in North Stamford. Over the century, several prominent artists
including Mort Walker of Beetle Bailey fame, have lived and worked on this gorgeous property.
Two years ago, in keeping with the artistic legacy, Stuart Yankell and his wife, MaryEllen Velahos, purchased the historic studio which currently houses the Yankell Legacy Gallery, where Stuart creates and exhibits his work. Yankell’s work celebrates life and the common fabric of humanity. Trained in Philadelphia at the Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts, the University of Pennsylvania and the Frudakis Sculpture Academy, he has painted in over 20 countries and his art is displayed in galleries and museums throughout the world. He has also taught painting and art history at the university level.
For more than four decades, Yankell has painted a multitude of musical, dance, sports and nightlife forms, as well as figurative themes from a broad range of universal settings. His work combines abstraction and realism with a kinetic approach rooted in classical lighting and form. Stuart uses large brushes attached to bamboo poles, and his strokes are broad but precise. Up close, his art seems entirely abstract. But at a distance, the images crystallize and come to life. Recent collectors of his art include Dave Matthews, M. Night Shyamalan, Carlos Santana, Natalie Merchant and both Wynton and Branford Marsalis.
Why did Stuart select this Stamford location to relocate to from Philadelphia, “It’s like my Field of Dreams! That I’ve come to be the artist-in-residence of this storied place is simply magical. It’s a deeply inspiring setting for me to paint and showcase my work.”
Mort Walker adds Beetle Bailey to Bourglum's Mount Rushmore for the insert sculpture for the bar
HOME OF THE RIVERBANK RAMBLE
Meet Greg and Kat WerlinichMusic lovers and very cool neighbors.
ARTICLE BY MARTY SHAPIRO
SCL: WHAT WAS THE MOMENT THAT PROMPTED YOU TO SAY, “LET’S BUY A COOL SPACE IN CT WITH LOTS OF PROPERTY SO WE COULD STAGE CONCERTS?”
GREG & KAT: There was no “aha moment”. It kind of developed over time. Kathiryn is a singer/songwriter and eventually started collaborating and performing with various bands in Westchester and Fairfield Counties. Over time, we were fortunate to become friends with a lot of talented musicians. As a result, when we hosted parties in the backyard of our home in Rye Brook, NY they inevitably turned into jam sessions. So, when we started looking for our forever home, we knew we wanted a space and vibe in which we could host live music. It was almost like we manifested this incredible 10 acre property on Riverbank Road.
Photo: Jay Cohen
Photo: Jay Cohen
Photo: Bob Capazzo
SCL: WHAT WAS THE IMPETUS FOR STARTING THE RIVERBANK RAMBLE?
GREG & KAT: We wanted to find a way to meet new friends and create something special for the community. We appreciate the opportunity to support area artists, and to provide a venue for local talent to gain increased exposure. We also believe this property has a special, almost spiritual, feeling that encourages art and creativity.
SCL: WHERE/HOW DO YOU DISCOVER NEW MUSIC?
GREG & KAT: For the Ramble, we’ve been lucky enough to have friends share their recommendations when they’ve discovered an inspiring area band we should check out. The three groups at our last event in June, The Moonrise Cartel, Finster and Rebel Kicks, were there because someone clued us in… and they were all spectacular! We’ve discovered many new bands through the Pleasantville Music Festival. Recently, Danielle Ponder blew us away at the Sleepy Hollow Music Festival.
SCL: WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT STAMFORD?
GREG & KAT: We love the beautiful countryside and the wonderful people we’ve met since moving here. We’ve really been welcomed by
so many of our neighbors. We’ve learned a lot about Stamford and its famous luminaries –seems like we’re always hearing stories about the rich history here! For example, Jackie Robinson and Ella Fitzgerald were known to frequent parties at a house in our neck of the woods back in the day – who knew! Our homestead dates to colonial times – there’s a little family cemetery surrounded by a stone wall on the corner of our property. Even though we are out in the country, we feel like we’ve moved into a real community. There’s a lot of inclusion here. Stamford seems to have the best of all worlds. Outdoorsy, but also near so much: a vibrant hip waterfront, great stores, and nice restaurants. And down-to-earth, friendly, diverse people.
SCL: WHAT DO YOU WANT PEOPLE TO KNOW ABOUT THE RIVERBANK RAMBLE?
GREG & KAT: We want people to come experience our wonderful little (but growing) music festival in person. Our next Riverbank Ramble will be Saturday, September 21st. If you join our email list at www.riverbankramble.com we can keep you up to date on our events. Also, please join us on Facebook and Instagram. What’s really gratifying is that, in addition to enjoying the music, our Ramblers have made new friendships here over a sandwich and a beer!
“WE BELIEVE THIS PROPERTY HAS A SPECIAL, ALMOST SPIRITUAL, FEELING THAT ENCOURAGES
hacks HAIR
Braids are a great way to add style and uniqueness to your hair style rotation and have been a staple in hair styles dating back to the 3500 B. C. This historical hairstyle is here to stay, so we wanted to share some go-to impressive looks. Follow our stepby-step guide of braids for all of your braid needs.
Braids to Keep You Chic All Year Long
ARTICLE BY ABBI SULASKI
PHOTOGRAPHY BY POPPY & CO. BY
KELSEY HUFFER
simpleupdo
Part the hair down the center or side part, if preferred. Create braid(s) on the side of the head and secure with elastic. Twist the hair with braids into a simple bun, securing it with hair pins. Add an accessory for a classy touch.
and tie it in the back. Create as many braids as desired in the back of the head, teasing the ends to avoid using elastics.
bandana braids
pull through braid with space buns
Part hair down the center. Create pull-through braids on each side of the head. Tie elastic at the end of the braids to create a ponytail at the nape of the neck. For extra volume in the buns, tease the hair in the ponytail before twisting it into a bun. Secure with hair pins and... Voilà!
Part the top half of the hair in two sections. Create fishtail braids (or braids of choice) and tie them together in the back of the hair. Add a fashion accessory around a ponytail for a little extra fun!
fishtail braids reverse
PERSONAL WELLNESS STYLE
ARTICLE BY JACQUI JUSTICE, MS FUNCTIONAL NUTRITIONIST @JACQUIJUSTICE
A unique blend of habits and practices that truly make you thrive.
Feeling overwhelmed by all the wellness noise out there? What’s the solution? Finding your personal wellness style:
Nourish
Aim for eating a variety of whole foods that make you feel energized and satisfied. Don't forget to HYDRATE.
Breathe
Try different calming deep-breathing techniques to see which one feels right for you.
Self-Care
Find activities that bring you joy and relaxation, whether it’s reading a book, taking a bath, or spending time in nature.
Move
Find exercises you enjoy, like dancing, hiking, a fitness class or my personal favorite - rebounding. Aim for 30 minutes per day.
Positive Mindset
Start your day with gratitude, find joy in the small things in life and surround yourself with supportive people who uplift you. Finding your personal wellness style is an ongoing adventure. Stay open to new experiences, be kind to yourself, and enjoy the process of discovering what makes you feel your ultimate best.
Eve Kerwin, White Buffalo Woman
Personal Spotlight: a Shaman’s Style
EVE KERWIN, 76
White Buffalo Woman, Shamanic Healer
1. HOW DOES FASHION COMPLEMENT YOUR LIFESTYLE?
I see a lot of people through my healing work and feel my best when I’m expressing how I feel. I get mistaken for an artist which is a compliment because fashion lets us be creative. I’m unique and my style reflects that. I feel youthful and my style complements the way I feel within.
2. DESCRIBE YOUR STYLE.
I've been all over the world and I’ve met fascinating people like the Dalai Lama and talented Native American artisans. I love to buy sentimental jewelry from the source, like one-of-a-kind pieces in India or leather and fringe in the Midwest. I often wear handcrafted items. One time I had to buy an extra suitcase when I was in Brazil because I bought so many pairs of shoes directly from a woman who was
making them. I also love giving items like this to family and friends as gifts.
3. GIVE US SOME FASHION ADVICE.
My advice is to wear your fine jewelry. I love accessories, especially diamonds and gemstones. I also love to wear silver and turquoise pieces made by indigenous peoples. I like to support their community and the communities I work in.
4. WHERE DO YOU SHOP LOCALLY?
For local shopping, I suggest NP Jewelry, which offers great value and has deep roots in the community (known for the puzzle ring). Fox’s clothing store always has something new or a great deal and the staff is so friendly. Stamford is an incredible city with so much to offer. I’ve been here for 50 years, originally from Greenwich, and I enjoy the many cultures and diversity.
ARTICLE BY SARAH BAMFORD
