Upper Westchester, NY April 2024

The Byram-Armonk

Our spacious two bedroom, two bath en-suite units include an open floor plan, large great room with fireplace, a den/ office, powder room, gourmet kitchen equipped with Viking appliances, security system, central vacuum, private patios or balconies and much more. The Byram also offers beautiful common areas such as a Meeting Room, a Fitness Center, a Grand Lobby, and inviting outdoor spaces with fire pits and relaxed seating areas.

The all new luxury 55+ condominiums are available for showings and purchase.

For more information, call or text 914-393-2681 or visit us at www.byramarmonk.com, 585 Main Street, Armonk, New York

Our Investment Issue

We’ve got a new name! The reason is simple: we’re growing. We launched this small but mighty publication in the heart of our small but mighty town a mere ten months ago, crossing our fingers that it would be warmly welcomed. Bedford, you’ve been all we hoped for and more. Since day one, your support has led us down paths of wonderful stories and newfound friendships. For me, it’s been one of the most joyful experiences to dance in spirited conversation with so many of you. I love to learn, and I’ve learned more than I could have imagined from hearing the journey, the vision, and the dreams of everyone we’ve featured along the way. Life is ours just this once — we shouldn’t hold tight to our passion; we should let it loose and run wildly with it.

Speaking of, passion is a component of this issue’s theme: investment. By definition, investment is the act of devotion to a particular undertaking with the expectation of a worthwhile result. It’s a broad topic, and it’s relatable to all of us in some form or another. We invest time and effort into the people and places and passions that matter to us; we invest finances into all types of opportunities; we invest in our careers, our communities, and ourselves; we invest in our future and that of future generations. While it’s true that investments don’t always pay off despite our efforts, they’re almost always worth trying for.

As for us, our investment remains rooted in our communities, from Bedford and beyond, and in sharing the stories that make our towns special. That's an investment you can bank on.

BARBARA ACCETTA, EDITOR @UPPERWESTCHESTER.CITYLIFESTYLE

April 2024

PUBLISHER

Laura Sabia | laura.sabia@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Barbara Accetta | barbara.accetta@citylifestyle.com

ACCOUNT MANAGER

Emma Parente | emma.parente@citylifestyle.com

PUBLICATION DIRECTOR

Dana Cifone | dana.cifone@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Ashley Cannon, George Papanicolaou

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Jess Marchione, Ashley Cannon, Carolyn Angelina

Photography, Barbara Accetta

Corporate Team

Restoration, Cleaning & Reconstruction

As industry leaders in Restoration, Reconstruction and Cleaning– our vision is to continue providing strategic Consumer & Business Solutions while upholding our commitment to exemplary customer service and white glove workmanship. We work alongside our insurance partners as well as in the private sector to handle claims and home improvement projects.

With our exclusive use of cutting-edge equipment and technology, our fully certified staff is capable of handling projects of any magnitude or complexity.

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city scene

1: Yellow Studio's Networking Club hosted Navigating Career Pivots, an interactive panel hosted by Lauren Schwarzfeld 2: A successful opening reception for Artist Sofie Swann at Chroma Fine Art Gallery in Katonah 3: Northern Westchester Hospital was named among America's 250 Best Hospitals in the top 5% nationwide 4: Dr. Poonam Desai and Lauren Elise Rogers spoke at The Well Center's Big 'Pause event 5: Magician Sara Crasson and Bamberg the Bear performed a fun-filled show at Pound Ridge Library 6: The 41st Annual Young Artists exhibit at Katonah Musuem of Art featured 365 student artworks 7: The Young Artists exhibit ay KMA showcased high school senior artists from 43 local schools

@POUNDRIDGELIBRARY

@YELLOWSTUDIONY

@KATONAHMUSEUM

@THEWELLCENTERNY

@CHROMAFINEARTGALLERY

@KATONAHMUSEUM

@NORTHERNWESTCHESTERHOSPITAL

8 - 14: Green Compass event hosted by Amanda Mintz and Merry Thornton at Element Med Spa in New Canaan 8: Merry Thornton, Kristin Kennedy, Sara Laccarubba, Amanda Mintz, Amanda Gershman, and Andrea Ceraso 10: Merry Thornton and Ella Barnette 11: Katya Libin leads a sound bath 13: Katya Libin, Amanda Mintz, Amanda Gershman, Sarah Laccarubba, and Penny Goffman 14: Amanda Mintz, Katya Libin, Kristin Kennedy, and Paige Calla

city scene

CONTINUED

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15 - 17: Green Compass event hosted by Amanda Mintz and Merry Thornton at Element Med Spa in New Canaan 15: Merry Thornton, Katya Johnson, Heather Kraudel, Katya Libin, Amanda Mintz, and Paige Calla 16: Amanda Mintz, Penny Goffmann, and Amanda Gershman

Le Poisson by Chef Thomas Burke

Renowned Chef Thomas Burke unveiled Le Poisson, his eagerly awaited seafood-centric venture, in the former La Cremaillere location. Boasting a refreshed interior, the French fine dining establishment promises an exquisite seafood-forward menu, including dishes like tuna carpaccio and an indulgent seafood tower. Accompanied by a new bar/lounge area, Le Poisson marks Chef Burke's debut as a managing partner, ensuring a captivating blend of culinary excellence and a relaxed atmosphere.

Now Open: Look New Canaan

Introducing Look New Canaan. Dr. Jennifer Stewart and her team are dedicated to helping you be your best every day. Their exceptional vision care combines innovative technology, stylish eyewear, personal attention, and a touch of fun. Visit their new optical boutique at 21 Forest Street in New Canaan, where you'll find a curated selection of eyewear to express your unique style.

For over thirty years, Pools Of Perfection has won the respect, trust and friendship of our customers by providing courteous, prompt and expert service and superlative design and uncompromised construction standards.

Please call Christopher Carthy at 914.273.SWIM (7946) to discuss your new poolscape, pool renovation or our fixed price annual maintenance program.

www.poolsofperfection.com

THE STYLE LIST BY @STYLEELYST

SPRING FASHION & JEWELRY TRENDS & MAINSTAYS

Join me as I explore the season's hottest trends and transition you from winter to spring with some of my favorite fashion, beauty, and jewelry finds. Supplying your closet with new wardrobe essentials will help you invest in a whole new level of confidence this springtime.

FRĒDA SALVADOR | DESIGNED IN CA + MADE IN EL SALVADOR + SPAIN

Featuring the JADA Handwoven Ballet Flats in Silver Crossed Woven Calf, $375. The JADA is equal parts chic and timeless with its square toe detailing, low-profile construction, and functional tie. Both dressy and practical, I love to style these with everything from jeans to a dress for an effortlessly cool look.

fredasalvador.com | @fredasalvador

Featuring the Diamond Cigar Band in 14K Yellow Gold, $2,800. This cigar band is a fun take on a classic. From the silhouette that gradually thickens, to the bezel set diamond, this ring tastefully elevates any outfit. I also love that this is a woman-owned business.

jacquelinelapuck.com | @jacquelinelapuck

JACQUELINE LAPUCK JEWELRY | WHIMSICAL JEWELRY MEETS EVERYDAY CLASSICS

FASHION

ARTICLE BY ASHLEY CANNON PHOTOGRAPHY BY ASHLEY CANNON/@STYLEELYST & BRAND IMAGERY

AYR | ALL YEAR ROUND | OLD SOUL CLOTHES FOR A NEW ERA

Featuring the The Secret Sauce in Memory Lane, $245 These have been my go-to jeans (and jean brand!) for over a year now. Every time I wear these – without fail – I get at least one compliment. They look so good on everyone! The comfort, fit, and fabric are all 10/10.

They offer two different inseams, allowing you to truly find your perfect fit.

ayr.com | @ayr

REFORMATION | BEING NAKED IS THE #1 MOST SUSTAINABLE OPTION. WE’RE #2.

Featuring the Mayve Knit Dress in Fior Di Latte, $148. The fitted bodice with A-line skirt is just a win for me. I would pair this with ballet flats or neutral sneakers for a chic everyday look.

thereformation.com | @reformation

GROWN BRILLIANCE | DIAMONDS THAT DESERVE YOU

Featuring the ½ ctw Emerald Lab Grown Diamond East West Bezel Set Solitaire Pendant with Adjustable Chain in 14K Yellow Gold, FG, VS2+, $795 This necklace adds the perfect amount of sparkle to any outfit. The chain is also adjustable, making it great solo or layered with other pieces in your collection.

Grown Brilliance is a female-founded, lab-grown diamond brand born out of years of experience and knowledge in the jewelry industry. Dedicated to environmentally friendly practices, Grown Brilliance delivers at every level of quality, ethics, product integrity, design, and value.

grownbrilliance.com | @grownbrilliance

CHRISTINA CARUSO | JEWELRY AS ART

Featuring the Line Cuff in 14k gold plated, recycled brass, $325. I am obsessed with chunky statement pieces for SS24, and this CC cuff fits the bill. It adds instant art to my outfits, and quite literally goes with anything from a matching set to a gown.

Fun fact: Christina Caruso’s namesake line debuted on Sarah Jessica Parker in the original hit series Sex and the City, and soon after, Christina’s talents were recognized by some of the biggest names in the fashion industry. She went on to design for brands including Isaac Mizrahi, Liz Claiborne, Banana Republic, Elizabeth Kennedy, and more.

Christina is passionate about partnering with female founders, working with recycled metals, and creating timeless pieces that will live on. In the fall of 2021, Christina relaunched her namesake collection with designs that continue to embody her bold, iconic, and glamorous spirit. The line is handcrafted by artisans in NYC. christinacaruso.com | @christinacarusostyle

AKNVAS | DESIGNED IN NEW YORK CITY

Featuring Sasha Knit Fringe Dress,  $595 . Luxuriously soft and cozy, this midweight fuzzy dress makes a bold statement with its plush texture, perfect for adding flair to your spring/summer wardrobe.

aknvas.com | @aknvas

DEMELLIER | AWARD-WINNING HANDBAGS | DESIGNED IN LONDON, HANDCRAFTED IN SPAIN

Featuring Cannes Leather Clutch Bag,  $490. I think a buttery yellow hue mixed into spring and summer this year is a delightful way to brighten up any look. I am especially drawn to this stunning DeMellier bag as it is subtle yet vibrant, and the thick gold hardware and sleek silhouette make it appear far more expensive than it is.

demellierlondon.com | @demellierlondon

JL ROCKS | EVERYDAY ARMOR FOR JEWELRY LOVERS WHO SPOIL THEMSELVES

Featuring Solid Gold Link Bracelet in 14K Yellow Gold, $2,850. I love this classic piece and the pop of fun that the pavé diamond link adds. More IS more this season, so incorporate this gorgeous bracelet into your stack today. For ready-to-wear and bespoke pieces.

jlrocks.com | @jlrocksjewelry | Local Stores in Greenwich & Westport, CT

PRAI BEAUTY | AWARD-WINNING TARGETED SKINCARE

Featuring the PRAI Beauty Ageless Throat & Decolletage Anti-Aging Neck Creme, $35. Ditch tech neck this season and improve your neck and décolletage in as little as 7 days. This rich, luxurious creme featuring PRAI’s unique Sepilift™ technology and Hyaluronic Acid dramatically lifts and tightens sagging skin, all while diminishing fine lines and crepiness. To boot, this best-selling cream is a Marie Claire UK Skin Awards 2022 Winner.

praibeauty.com | @praibeauty

DISSH | AUSTRALIAN BRAND

Featuring Tilly Black Linen Longline Vest, $129. This lightweight, non-stretch vest will be on repeat all spring and summer long.

dissh.com | @dissh

To see my fashion, beauty and lifestyle selects on the daily, be sure to head to styleelyst. com and follow me on social @styleelyst | Psst...keep your eyes peeled for The Style List in the 2024 issues of both Greenwich and Darien Lifestyle Magazines.  In addition to being a style columnist, Ashley Cannon is a fashion/lifestyle influencer (@styleelyst/styleelyst.com), mother, and marketing specialist. She resides in Fairfield County, CT with her husband, daughter, and yellow lab.

CONSULTATIONS - DESIGN SERVICES - MEASUREMENTS - COMPLIMENTARY ESTIMATES - NEW & UNIQUE DESIGNS

“We will help guide you in the right direction when designing your kitchen and bath! We love a challenge and finding creative solutions for your space!” - - Ardiana, Ylli & Sonny, Kitchenique Owners

203.748.5659 - kitcheniquecabinetry.com - 212 White Street, Danbury, CT 06810

Why You Need a Financial Plan

A PROPER FINANCIAL PLAN SHOULD BE REGULARLY REVIEWED AND ADJUSTED TO ALIGN WITH LIFE CHANGES

ARTICLE BY GEORGE PAPANICOLAOU PHOTOGRAPHY BY CAROLYN ANGELINA PHOTOGRAPHY | @CAROLYNANGELINAPHOTOGRAPHY

“By addressing personal and professional topics within a comprehensive financial plan, individuals navigate financial challenges with greater ease for an enjoyable journey towards financial well-being.”

- GEORGE PAPANICOLAOU

The necessity of complete financial planning is dismissed by some and put off by many. However, without a plan, how can anyone hope to achieve their maximum financial potential? Having a plan allows you to operate from a position of being proactive vs. reactive. As  popular podcaster Cornelius Fichtner once said, “planning without action is futile, action without planning is fatal.”

Effective financial planning involves a holistic approach focusing on the coordination and integration of various financial elements. This includes considerations in areas such as estate, insurance, investment, and tax planning; even maximizing your employer benefits is essential. Building a collaborative relationship with a financial advisor who acts as a supportive teammate can enhance the effectiveness of the planning process and overall goal achievement.

Each of us has a unique personal economy and a unique relationship with money. This alone necessitates a tailored approach to financial planning. Categorizing individuals based solely on risk tolerance does not constitute a comprehensive financial plan. Moreso, you should coordinate your various advisors such as CPAs, attorneys, insurance agents,

and money managers in order to optimize that personal economy.

Business owners, for example, who are planning a business exit, whether through a third-party sale, family transition plan, or sale to a current employee, must maximize the potential outcome for both the owner and their families. Anticipating and preparing for these scenarios can secure a significantly more favorable outcome.

For individuals and families, traditional financial planning often focuses on accumulating a certain amount of wealth as the goal. This ignores other important variables and risks such as sequence of returns, inflation, legislative, tax, and technology. How important is lifestyle in post-retirement, estate, and legacy planning? All are equally as important to incorporate into a holistic plan; ignoring them can make achieving your maximum financial potential more challenging in the long run.

George Papanicolaou is a Partner at Opus Private Client, LLC and a Financial Representative of The Guardian Life Insurance Company of America. George is a decorated veteran of the United States Army, with foreign and domestic service.

opus-pc.com | gpapa@opus-pc.com

SPRING STAYCATION DESTINATIONS

credit: rhinebeck.mirbeau.com

CELEBRATE SPRING WITH A LITTLE TIME AWAY THAT’S CLOSE TO HOME

ARTICLE BY BARBARA ACCETTA

The northeast is full of places to visit that can feel worlds away, yet are just a short drive from Westchester. From family-friendly fun to a girlfriends getaway to a romantic retreat, the options are so endless that it was tough to round up only four. Though familiar, these are four spring staycations that make for an unforgettable time, every time.

CASTLE HILL INN

Newport, Rhode Island

Situated on 40 rolling acres along half a mile of pristine coastline is Castle Hill Inn, a landmark 4-star hotel that evokes sophistication among an air of laid-back luxury. Its charm lies within its nod to years past by way of its grand architecture, while its unparalleled personalized service and world-class cuisine make it the most exclusive and sought-after stay in the area. A drink outdoors on the infamous seaside Adirondack chairs is sure to follow an unforgettable dinner at the in-house restaurant, Relais & Châteaux. Couples will be hard-pressed to find a more romantic getaway in town. The ambiance is intimate, and no attention to detail has been spared, from the plush accommodations to the elevated amenities, including gas-jet fireplaces, oversized soaking tubs, and steam showers.

drive time: 3 hours

@castlehillinn | castlehillinn.com

MIRBEAU INN & SPA  Rhinebeck, New York

Whether you’re staycationing with your significant other or your girlfriends, look no further than Mirbeau Inn & Spa. Located just steps away from the charming, historic village of Rhinebeck with majestic views of the Catskill Mountains, Mirbeau exudes an oldworld Parisian feel backed by modern comforts and 5-star service. Its 49 guest rooms boast fireplaces and soaking tubs, and its expansive spa is unrivaled in its robust menu of treatments, fitness offerings, salt sauna, resting room, and Aqua Terrace, an outdoor heated pool with a fireplace and bar. Mirbeau’s award-winning restaurant draws inspiration from France, featuring locally sourced dishes in an elegant atmosphere. Book a candlelight yoga class, a mixology class, a sound bath, and more, including a Milea Estate Winery Tour. Mirbeau’s second location is five hours away in the quaint town of Skaneateles, another worthwhile destination.

drive time: 75 min

@mirbeaurhinebeck | rhinebeck.mirbeau.com

A 5-STAR BOUTIQUE HOTEL

WHOSE RESTAURANT BEARS THE NAME OF OUR OWN JEAN-GEORGES.

CRYSTAL SPRINGS RESORT

Hamburg, New Jersey

The ultimate family time awaits at this sprawling Appalachian Mountains playground featuring two hotels, ten dining outlets — including a four-star restaurant and a world-renowned wine cellar — six top-rated golf courses, two award-winning spas, a bestin-class wellness program, and gorgeously appointed guest rooms and luxury suites with high-end options like stone gas fireplaces,

in-room laundry, and private balconies. The list of activities is endless - 3 pool complexes, archery, rock climbing, curling, pony rides, scavenger hunts, paint & sip, build a stuffed animal, an arcade, cabaret and shows, family movie nights, and every outdoor activity imaginable, from pickleball to nature walks, not to mention a Swiss-engineered ice skating rink.

drive time: 90 min @crystalspringsresort | crystalgolfresort.com

TOPPING ROSE HOUSE

Bridgehampton, New York

A meticulously renovated 19th-century mansion, this luxury 5-star boutique hotel near the southern shore seamlessly blends contemporary comforts and modern style with its glorious traditional architecture. Elegance is found in every detail, including in Topping Rose House’s chic guest quarters featuring Frette linens, Matouk bath towels, SFERRA bathrobes, bath amenities by Farmaesthetics, and customizable minibars. Guests are welcome in the main house or private cottages. The hotel’s heated outdoor pool, wellness treatment studio, fitness offerings, and aesthetic spa are second to none. Its restaurant, which bears the name of the one and only JeanGeorges, presents farm-to-table cuisine using local ingredients.

There’s an abundance of activities to explore just beyond the hotel’s beautifully manicured lawn, including horseback riding on the beach courtesy of Deep Hollow Ranch in nearby Montauk. Rounding out Topping Rose House’s impressive accolades is its partnership with The Bridge, the nation’s most exclusive invitation-only annual automotive event showcasing rare and incredible cars from collectors around the world. The hotel hosts a breathtaking exhibition of classic and historic racing cars, a stunning sight against the juxtaposition of its historical backdrop. To catch a glimpse of the magic, you’ll need to plan another visit in September.

drive time: 2.5 hrs

@toppingrosehouse | toppingrosehouse.com

BARN FINDS & BACKROADS

of Bob Torre’s impressive classic car collection

ARTICLE BY BARBARA ACCETTA | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JESS MARCHIONE

Tales

Bob Torre’s first car, a white Porsche 356B that was listed in the PennySaver for $500, had no floors and buckets for seats. So a teenage Bob fixed it up, got it running, and traded it for a Fiat 124 Spider from “some guy in Yonkers.” Hence began Bob’s lifelong love affair with cars.

In 2018, Bob and his friend Randy Elber opened R&R Automotive Restorations in Mount Kisco. Bob’s personal automotive collection grew with the purchase of a 1967 Lamborghini 400 GT (one of only 23 produced) that he discovered in Portugal on Ebay, and a 1958 Mercedes Benz 300SL Roadster, bought at the 2017 Greenwich Concours Bonhams auction.

The 300SL Roadster still retains the majority of original factory details and highly original interior. It’s also been on a few 1,000 mile vintage rallies in Colorado, Lake Tahoe, Oregon, and Texas, including a special rally for 300SL’s. “The gentleman selling the car

was getting divorced and needed to make the sale, so I was happy to oblige,” says Bob.

The crown jewel of Bob’s collection is a patina green 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300SL Gullwing, a rare barn find at a run down

CONTINUED >

junkyard upstate. The Gullwing, whose elderly owner had purchased it at 16 years old for $6,000, hadn’t been started since 1975. The key was still in the ignition.

“I’ve gotta buy this,” Bob laughs, recalling his first thought. Back at his shop, the Gullwings lights, wipers, and fans all worked. Bob decided to strictly clean and preserve the original finishes still intact, and keep almost the entire car as is. Most of the interior of the car is original, and he chose to forego exterior restoration, leaving the classic Gullwing unaltered (patina).

The Roadster and Gullwing are Bob’s go-to’s for drives down scenic roads from Bedford to North Salem to Pound Ridge. His Gullwing won the 2019 People’s Choice Award at Audrain Concours and is a favorite of car enthusiasts. What’s the next car in Bob’s collection? “I’ll know when I see it,” he says with a smile.

21 Questions with Liz Frazier Peck

ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY BARBARA ACCETTA

Author, Speaker, and Financial Planner Liz Frazier Peck is serving aces on and off the tennis court (her USTA women’s team placed in the finals last season). A regular financial contributor on Forbes.com and a featured expert in countless media, including People Magazine, WSJ, Bustle, Motherly, Good Morning Washington and many more, Liz’s book, Beyond Piggy Banks and Lemonade Stands: How To Teach Young Kids About Finance, is a simple step-by-step guide for the loving, responsible, and overworked parents of elementary school children. Easy to understand and written in Liz’s calm and compassionate tone, the book focuses on basic finance fundamentals to ensure kids make smart money decisions as they grow. Liz also serves as the Executive Director of Financial Literacy at Copper, the banking and financial education platform for teens. And as if she’s not busy enough ruling the finance world, she’s also a rockstar mom of two whose claim to fame is in the family kitchen – her chocolate chip protein pancakes are *chef’s kiss.* www.lizfrazier.com | @lizfrazierpeck

1. What’s your guilty pleasure? Eating Nutella by the spoonful.

2. What do you eat for breakfast? A ton of coffee and a protein bar.

3. Biggest risk you’ve ever taken? Leaving all my friends and family in NC to move to NYC for work in my 30s. I was totally out of my element.

4. What was your first car? A 1987 Red Toyota Celica - a stick shift!

5. Current favorite song? Don’t Blame Me by Taylor Swift. My 10-year-old daughter has turned me into a full Swiftie.

6. What item of yours was your biggest splurge? I bought my first expensive rug a few years ago. I love it, but we got a puppy around the same time - not a smart combo!

7. What are three things you can’t live without? My loved ones, coffee, and tennis.

8. Something that always makes you smile? Peeking in on my kids when they're asleep.

9. When do you feel most like yourself? The annual girls' trip with my best friends from childhood.

10. One person you’d like to meet, past or present? The Greatest of All Time - Elvis!

11. What’s your favorite board game? Not a board game, but I’m obsessed with NYT Connections.

12. Do you consider yourself a good dancer? Not really, but I’m enthusiastic! I love to dance around the house.

13. What’s an item you’ve kept from childhood? Great Children’s Stories, a collection of classics from the 20s that my parents read to me.

14. What scares you? My kids getting hurt, physically or emotionally. It’s inevitable, but still my top fear. That, and yellow jackets.

15. Favorite spot or thing to do around town? Seeing a movie at Bedford Playhouse.

16. What’s your hidden talent? I’m a killer at Spades.

17. When was a moment that you felt proud of yourself? Being named a 2023 Top Financial Advisor by Investopedia, and Top 10 for Financial Literacy.

18. As a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up? A psychiatrist like my dad. Funny enough, I’m a Financial Planner like my mom.

19. Food: sweet or salty? Sweet! Chocolate doesn’t last a minute in our house.

20. What’s your favorite childhood cartoon or TV show? Wonder Woman. I was (am still) obsessed with Lynda Carter.

21. What’s something you’re trying to get better at? I’m trying to slow down, put down the phone, ignore the to-do list, and live in the moment.

“I start every morning before my kids wake up with a cup of coffee and the New York Times word games.”