Westport , CT November 2018

Westport

LifestylePubs.com/Westport

NOVEMBER 2018

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INTERIOR DESIGNER MAR SILVER’S WESTPORT HOME

(NOT) HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS

BACKSTAGE AT THE PLAYHOUSE

WHIP YOUR HOLIDAY LOOK INTO SHAPE

LIFESTYLE LETTER

NOVEMBER 2018 PUBLISHER

Marisa MacLean | marisa.maclean@lifestylepubs.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Sophia Babun, Anna Barnes, Jen Berniker, Matthew MacLean CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Mindy Briar, Maya Porrino, John Videler

Thankful AS NOVEMBER ROLLS AROUND, WE’RE ANXIOUSLY AWAITING THE APPROACH OF THANKSGIVING, THE HOLIDAY SEASON AND TIME SPENT WITH OUR LOVED ONES. The winding down of the year always brings about a time of reflection for us. We look back on everything we have to be thankful for. I’m thankful for my family, my friends and for the wonderful community where we all live. We at Westport Lifestyle are also thankful for all of you, and, most meaningfully, the stories you share with us.

This is the time of year to think about all those who are separated from their families during the holidays while serving overseas or closer to home. When you’re prepping your Thanksgiving turkey or curled up next to the fire this season, remember those who are standing watch and keeping us safe.

We hope that as you read this issue, you—like us—find inspiration in the lives and experiences of your neighbors and the connections that you’ve made. We also take this chance to think of those less fortunate and encourage you to take the opportunity this giving season to donate to local organizations or charities.

I’m thankful for you, Westport!

CORPORATE TEAM CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson EDITORIAL MANAGER Nicolette Martin EDITORIAL Kate Baxendale AD MANAGER Chad Jensen AD COORDINATORS Cyndi Harrington | Alicia Huff | Jessica Soetaert LAYOUT DESIGNERS Cyndi King | Dana Rudolph | Emily Stout Hailey Stepanek | Adella Wrisinger FIELD SUPPORT Carli DiMarco | Victoria Perry PUBLISHER SUPPORT Melanie Carlisle ACCOUNTANT Austin Park APPLICATION ARCHITECT Michael O’Connell WEB DEVELOPERS Tejaswini Jagarlamudi | Harshith Potu

Marisa MacLean , Publisher

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ON THE COVER Interior designer Mar Silver’s Westport home

PHOTOGRAPHY BY MINDY BRIAR 4

Westport Lifestyle | November 2018

LifestylePubs.com/Westport

Proverbs 3:5-6 Westport Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Westport areas’ most affluent neighborhoods.

Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions.

No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent.

Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in Westport Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

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INSIDE THE ISSUE NOVEMBER 2018

FEATURES 16 Backstage at the Playhouse A Peek behind the Curtain at Westport Country Playhouse

20 (NOT) Home for the Holidays Our First Responders Are Always on Call

26 Serenity & Space Ultra-cool Interior Designer Mar Silver Takes Us on a Tour of Her Westport Home

20 30

30 Suzanne Lenzer’s Apple Crostada A New Twist on Your Traditional Apple Pie

26

16

DEPARTMENTS 4

Lifestyle Letter

8

Good Times

12

Around Town

16

Back Stage

26 Open House 30 Culinary Creations 34 Locals Only 36 Lifestyle Calendar 38 Local’s Choice

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GOOD TIMES 1.

2.

3.

Slice of Saugatuck The 7th annual Slice of Saugatuck Festival was a food and retail experience which brought together 56 of the area’s merchants. Seven bands played, and kid-friendly activities were stationed all through the triangle we call the Slice. To date, nearly $25,000 has been donated from event proceeds to aid Homes with Hope’s food pantry.

6.

PHOTOS BY JEFF SIMON

4.

5.

1. Matthew Mandell, director of the Westport Weston Chamber, pauses for a photo. | 2. Romanacci Xpress serves up Pizza. | 3. The ladies from Winfield Street Deli | 4. The band Joon plays at the Slice. | 5. The crew from the Black Duck | 6. Joon plays for the crowd.

8

Westport Lifestyle | November 2018

GOOD TIMES 1.

2.

Blues, Views and BBQ Festival

3.

6.

The 11th annual Blues Views and BBQ Festival was two events in one: a world-class two-day music showcase held at the Levitt Pavilion and a family-friendly, barbecue-flavored, local band-based giant block party on the Imperial parking lot.

4.

5.

1. The crowd cheers as bands play the festival. Photo by J.C. Martin | 2. Photo by J.C. Martin | 3. Carolyn Wonderland plays for the crowd. Photo by J.C. Martin | 4. The annual rib eating competition drew crowds at the this year’s BBQ Fest. Who can eat an entire rack the fastest? | 5. Alpaca Gnomes plays for the crowd. | 6. Matthew Mandell, director of the Westport Weston Chamber, with Sunday's headliner, Fantastic Negrito

10

Westport Lifestyle | November 2018

DR. MASHA KOGAN & DR. VIRGINIA ROMANO

Personalized Dental Care BRINGING

TO A NEW LEVEL

The Dental Center of Westport has been serving the Westport community, as well as neighboring towns, for over 20 years. The practice strives to provide exceptional client care and educate patients about dental health as a “total body connection.”

Dr. Masha Kogan and Dr. Virginia Romano are committed to ongoing professional development spending significant time each year attending the most highly regarded dental workshops around the world. As a result, the office continually invests in state-ofthe-art technology such as Kör Whitening®, the newest ultrasonic scalers and a digital scanner.

Along with preventive and routine care, Dr. Kogan and Dr. Romano offer a full range of cosmetic services specializing in Smile Makeovers with porcelain veneers. Both doctors are certified in Accelerated invisalign® as well as BOTOX® treatment for clenching and TMJ. Dental Center of Westport’s mission is to continue to bring personalized dental care to a new level where patients feel well cared for, catered to, and treated as a family.

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AROUND TOWN veterans, offering a “Westport hug” rarely seen in other places around the country.

With your help, Catch a Lift raised a record $1.4 million in 2017 for post-9/11 wounded combat veterans! Catch a Lift was honored to ring the NYSE opening bell, awarded a grant from the Bob Woodruff Foundation and most importantly was able to employ Catch a Lift Fund alumni veterans to train other veterans in need.

Please help us make the infamous "Westport hug" even wider. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit CatchALiftFund.org.

GREG KRAUT WANTS EVERYBODY IN WESTPORT ON AN ELECTRIC BIKE When Greg Kraut moved to Westport, he didn't expect to be using his electric bike as much as he does now. He bought it to ride to the train station so he could be more environmentally friendly. It turned out that he liked riding it so much that now he rides it every second he can.

"I get the creative juices going in the morning, and it starts the day right. Another advantage of an electric bike is parking. You no longer have to spend time searching for a parking spot at the train station. Just lock your bike up and be on your way," Greg says.

Given Westport’s traffic, sometimes an electric

The Westport Police Department is proud to be

This is an excellent alternative to your usual com-

a member of the Pink Patch Project for 2018. The

mute. It is hard to not like riding it.

newly designed patches are part of an innovative

If everybody rode electric bikes, think how much

campaign comprising more than 2,675 other pub-

less pollution and traffic congestion we would have

lic safety agencies nationwide, designed to bring

in Westport. If you want to learn more about elec-

attention to the fight against breast cancer and to

tric bikes, email Greg at greg@gregkraut.com. Or

support breast cancer research organizations in

look for him around town!

combating this devastating disease.

CATCH A LIFT FUND ANNUAL BENEFIT NOV. 9 Over the past eight years, Catch a Lift Fund has

Wearing pink patches on their uniforms is intended to stimulate conversations with the community during officers' daily contacts with them and to encourage discussion with the public.

driven this mission to help more than 3,500 wounded

The Westport Police Department will be sell-

veterans all over the country regain their purpose

ing the patches to the public through Oct. 31 as

and re-establish their lives through fitness. Because

a fundraiser for $10 each at the Westport Police

of the program’s incredible success, the waiting list

Department, 50 Jesup Road, Westport, Connecticut. The

has grown to nearly 600 vets who need assistance,

proceeds will be donated to Pink Aid of Westport.

and CAL needs to raise $800,000 to meet their needs.

Thanks to Westport’s generosity and dedication,

For

information, visit CPOA.org/

more

pink-patch-project or contact Detective Ashley

this town has become an incredible support system

DelVecchio

for the organization and its veterans. Over the past

or 203.341.6039.

three years, Westport has opened its doors to many 12

PINK PATCH PROJECT 2018

bike can beat the speed of public transportation!

Westport Lifestyle | November 2018

at

adelvecchio@westportct.gov CONTINUED >

14

Westport Lifestyle | November 2018

AROUND TOWN

(CON TI N U ED)

CRAFTWESTPORT Start making your fall shopping plans NOW! Presented by the Westport Young Woman's League, CraftWestport is the longest running indoor fine craft event in Connecticut. For 43 years, this show has been the perfect venue for unique one-of-a-kind holiday shopping. It features 175 top craft artists from across the country and

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includes a pop-up Marketplace of local Connecticut makers. Net proceeds are donated to charity.

WYWL.com/craft-westport Location: Staples High School 70 North Ave. Westport, CT 06880 Hours: Saturday 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Sunday 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Cost: Weekend Pass $10 / Seniors $9 / 12-18 years old $5/ Children under 12 free Free parking

4TH ANNUAL 'VETS ROCK' EVENT AT MOHEGAN ON NOV. 2 Join us at the fourth annual Vets Rock event as we celebrate active duty military and veterans with a day of valuable programs and resources on Friday, Nov. 2. Some of the special services and activities include Hiring Our Heroes, Save-A-Suit professional attire fitting and more than 100 veteran service organizations and workshops—all for free! A portion of tickets will also be donated from Sebastian Maniscalco's concert in Mohegan Sun Arena by Mohegan Sun to support Vets Rock. For more information, visit MoheganSun.com.

EXHIBIT OF UNIQUE ART BY AMERICAN ARTIST J. FATSE

RESORT LIVING ON 3+ ACRES IN THE HEART OF TOWN

Visit the Westport River Gallery for an Exhibit of Unique Art by American artist J. Fatse during November, 1 Riverside Ave., Westport. His flowing expressionist abstractions evoke varying emotions,

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and his poly-resin creations are reminders of the sway of daily life. Fatse is a dentist by day, artist by night. His works are on display at the gallery and the main dining room of the Arezzo Restaurant. His art has been seen in Art World News, and all sales of his work will benefit the homeless.

We are always accepting submissions for announcements you’d like to see included in our Around Town section. Submissions are accepted via the Contact Us tab at LifestylePubs.com/Westport.

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November 2018 | Westport Lifestyle

15

BACK STAGE

backstage

at the playhouse David Dreyfoos leads a Tech Talk discussion during the last day of technical rehearsal, two days before the first preview. Photo by Maya Porrino

The Premiere Circle offers you a deeper relationship with the Playhouse. Get privileged access to special Playhouse events, the annual London trip and other travel experiences, plus unique behind-the-scenes conversations with artists and others who share your passion.

WestportPlayhouse.org

16

Westport Lifestyle | November 2018

THIS YEAR, THE WESTPORT COUNTRY PLAYHOUSE IS GIVING THANKS TO THE MANY PATRONS WHO MAKE THESE LOCAL PRODUCTIONS POSSIBLE ARTICLE SOPHIA BABUN | PHOTOGRAPHY MINDY BRIAR & MAYA PORRINO

Backstage devotees Mary Ellen and Jim Marpe. Mary Ellen is also on the board and serves as the chair of the Development Committee. Photo by Mindy Briar

Eunice Bigelow with Associate Artistic Director David Kennedy. Photo by Mindy Briar

THE WESTPORT COUNTRY PLAYHOUSE IS A LOCAL TREA-

“The more people know about all the parts that make a production

SURE. The picturesque red-painted theater, nuzzled right off Post

happen plus how they feel—moved, transformed, inspired —the more they

Road East, saw its beginnings in 1931. Since then it has grown to

want to come back for more and be a part of keeping it alive,” she says.

become a nationally recognized not-for-profit professional theater.

The historic destination is an essential component to Westport’s

One great way to get involved with and support the Westport Country Playhouse is to join the Premiere Circle.

unique character. There are many aspects that make the Playhouse

“The Premiere Circle is a group of donors who provide annual gifts of

special, but the support of the local community is perhaps one of its

$1,500 or more, but we also know it as a community of people who truly

most extraordinary qualities. The involvement from the community

enjoy being together at the many social gatherings in private homes and

is what keeps the theater going and able to produce the acclaimed

other special invitations to unique events that come our way,” Carole says.

performances it is known for. Not only does this theater bring the

Members enjoy various perks and benefits, including special invi-

local community together, it also draws in audience members from

tations to exclusive events such as Tech Talks and Insider Insights.

all over the country and beyond. It has a contagious energy. It’s

These gatherings help deepen an existing love and fascination for

nothing less than heartwarming and inspiring to witness the magic

theater and connect individuals with similar interests to each other.

of this historic theater thriving in our own little seaside town.

The Playhouse's special events help get people excited about current and future productions and create a conversation in the com-

If you are a Premiere Circle member interested in finding out more about what makes the magic happen on stage, then you will find the Tech Talks fascinating.

munity. These events are a great opportunity for both avid theater

“Tech Talks brunches bring people into the nitty-gritty of all the back-

lovers and those interested in learning more to mingle, learn and

stage artists and technicians, led by Associate Producer David Drefoos,”

enjoy together. Events and fundraisers are crucial for the success

she says. “They are a perk for our Premiere Circle members. We’ve had

of the Playhouse, since it is a nonprofit theater, and only about 40

lighting, costume and set designers, each of whom gives a peek into their

percent of each ticket price covers the cost of productions.

world and the research and reasons that inform their design decisions. The

“People already love the Playhouse, so my job is to help deepen

afternoon is always filled with, ‘Wow, I never knew that’ comments. After

their experience,” says Carole Southall, director of development at

brunch at Positano’s, we walk over to the theater for a bit of a rehearsal or

the Westport Country Playhouse.

a backstage tour and meet additional artisans.”

Carole oversees the theater’s fundraising including major gifts, foundation, government and the annual gala.

Another great event exclusive to Premiere Circle members is the Insider Insights events.

CONTINUED >

November 2018 | Westport Lifestyle

17

BACK STAGE

(CON TI N U ED)

1.

2.

3.

1. An intimate Tech Talks brunch at Positano’s. Left to right: David Dreyfoos; Matthew Richards, lighting designer; Beryl Leifer; Nancy Tillson; Roger Leifer; Dave Tillson; and Steve Corman. Photo by Maya Porrino | 2. Scott and Judy Phares with Associate Artistic Director David Kennedy. Photo by Mindy Briar | 3. Community leaders knee-to-knee with the actors and director at an Insider Insights event. Front row (left to right): Eunice and David Bigelow, John Goodrich, Darlene Krenz, Karen Parrella, Nancy Tillson, Dave Tillson, Lee Vincent (by window) - Second Row (left to right): Scott and Judy Phares, Dana Rutson Robinson, Lila and Peter Steenbergen, Cleo and Jon Sonneborn - Third and fourth rows: (Partially visible) Molly Alger, Jay Durnberger, Beryl Leifer, (partially visible) Mary Ellen Marpe, Didi Carr, (partially visible) Jim Marpe, Joey Kaempfer, Roger Leifer - In doorway: Company Manager Bruce Miller and Director of Development Carole Southall. Photo by Mindy Briar

“Insider Insights are conversations in a private home with one or more of the artists connected to the production, the director, playwright

by is extraordinary, and this is something we can all be thankful for this November.

or actors, all facilitated by David Kennedy, associate artistic director at

Carole says the Playhouse “gives people something to be moved

the Playhouse,” Carole says. “Each gives insights to their work meth-

by. We also take our role as a social convener seriously, hosting

odology, and their personal stories and experiences are always illumi-

community events such as the International Women’s Day event and

nating. It is fascinating to learn how different directors approach plays,

Team Westport’s annual Martin Luther King Day Celebration, both of

actors and designers and incorporate them into their own process.”

which are always sell-outs.”

Insider Insights events inspire the community by allowing the-

When asked what she is most thankful for about the Playhouse,

atergoers to mingle with working theater professionals currently

Carole has much to say. Something that really stands out to her is the

involved in Playhouse productions.

staff, board and supporters.

“You know the expression, ‘The more you know, the more you love?’

“I genuinely feel that we are all part of one big family, and we each have

Well, that’s what happens at these events. People love learning, and

a separate but equal role to play,” she says. “Likewise, our donors…with-

they fall in love with knowing how things work and get made,” she says.

out them, we couldn’t mount these fabulous productions, and without us,

The Westport Playhouse’s ability to bring people together is

they would not have a world-class theater in their own backyard. It takes

remarkable. Being able to see Broadway-level productions so close 18

Westport Lifestyle | November 2018

a village, and there is great respect for every role that people play.”

(NOT)HOME FOR THE HOLI DAYS OUR FIRST RESPONDERS ARE ALWAYS ON CALL

THE HOLIDAYS ARE A TIME TO SPEND WITH FAMILY AND FRIENDS. During this

season, we at Westport Lifestyle want to

remember those who are always on call.

They are the people who serve our community around the clock working nights, weekends and holidays to keep us safe.

They kiss their families goodbye and leave home not knowing what to expect. They come to our aid when we need them the most. While we spend time with loved ones this holiday season, they will be standing watch to keep us safe.

ARTICLE MATTHEW MACLEAN | PHOTOGRAPHY JOHN VIDELER

20

Westport Lifestyle | November 2018

Westport Chief of Police Foti Koskinas never expected to be a police officer. He has deep roots here in town. Foti moved to Westport in 1981 from Greece without knowing a word of English. The community embraced him, helped him learn the language and made him feel right at home. He’s happy to give back.

“I’ve had an incredible career,” he says.

He has been a dog handler, a public safety diver and a member of the Fairfield County S.W.A.T team. He’s also worked closely with the DEA. Foti loves being able to do real police work and shrugs off the long hours.

When asked what keeps him going, he beams with pride for the people in his department.

“They’re just wonderful human beings, highly invested in their families.”

There is something special about Westport, he says. One of the things that makes the people special, especially these days, is the willingness to talk and work things out together. In a polarized political climate, he’s proud of the fact that we’re still able to come together as adults, discuss things openly and solve problems together.

Detective Ashley DelVecchio took an interest in police work at a young age. There was a female school resource officer in her high school. Ashley looked up to her, and that admiration is what started her down the path to law enforcement. Her family didn’t understand

FOTI KOSKINAS

at first, but they’re glad she’s found her calling. Her favorite part of the job is the variety.

“Every day is different, and you never know what to expect.”

CONTINUED >

POLICE CHIEF November 2018 | Westport Lifestyle

21

NOT HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS

(CON TI N UED)

Being away on the holidays is tough on Ashley, but her husband gets it. He’s a Westport police officer as well. Being a detective, you never really have a day off.

“You can never know what’s going to happen. A call can come in at any time.”

It’s a message Ashley has for the community as a whole. She wants people to know that, just like everyone else, they want to go home to their families too.

The EMS team understands what it’s like to always be on call. Westport EMS Deputy Director Marc Hartog took an interest in saving lives after a CPR class he took while attending Columbia University. He spent 20 years working in New York City and the last 18 years here in Westport. Having been married for 30 years of his 38-year career, it’s hard to imagine a life without being on call. Still, the work is rewarding.

Marc remembers an experience from several years ago. He was called to assist a woman in cardiac arrest. He and his team brought her back, and

ASHLEY DELVECCHIO DETECTIVE

he still gets a letter from her family every year to thank him.

“You remember those calls. They stick with you.

There’s a reason you’re out there and not with your family,” he says.

Having such a direct impact on the community makes the personal sacrifices worth it.

The Westport EMS team handles about 2,400 calls per year. That’s a lot of volume for only six fulltime staff. There are about 100 volunteers who help share the load.

“We’re really lucky to have this type of system,” Marc says of his staff as well as the volunteers.

Many are high school or college kids from the community, and several have gone on to become doctors or nurses. Others just want to give back.

MARC HARTOG

WESTPORT EMS DEPUTY DIRECTOR 22

Westport Lifestyle | November 2018

Cpl. Shawn Wong Won comes from a family that understands service. His four older brothers joined the military. Shawn also chose to serve, just a little closer to home. As he puts it, someone had to stay and watch over the family. For Shawn, the best part of working in law enforcement is the direct impact he sees on the people he meets. When asked about his favorite part of the job, he answers simply: “Catching the bad guys.”

Shawn is happy to serve the people of Westport and asks that they keep an open mind in their interaction with the police. With everything going on in the world today, he wants people to understand that he and his colleagues are there to help. When asked about the effect his job has on his family, he responds with typical selflessness.

“The hardest part is the effect it has on my wife;

CPL. SHAWN WONG WON

I understand how she feels.”

As the weather gets colder, and we spend more time tucked into our warm homes with friends and family, please take a moment to remember those who serve. Many residents choose to bring warm food to the law enforcement and EMS folks over the holidays, ensuring they never go hungry. Or just stop in to say thanks and introduce yourself to the team. They consider themselves lucky to be part of our community, and we’re certainly lucky to have them.

November 2018 | Westport Lifestyle

23

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Westport Lifestyle | November 2018

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November 2018 | Westport Lifestyle

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OPEN HOUSE

ULTRA-COOL INTERIOR DESIGNER MAR SILVER TAKES US ON A TOUR OF HER CHIC OPEN-PLAN HOME IN WESTPORT

Serenity & Space

ARTICLE SOPHIA BABUN | PHOTOGRAPHY MINDY BRIAR

26

Westport Lifestyle | November 2018

Master bedroom

Family room

Master bathroom

INTERIOR DESIGNER MAR SILVER’S

home possesses a modern, open plan which

HOME IN WESTPORT IS A TRANQUIL

increases the living space.

OASIS AND THE PERFECT ESCAPE FROM

Mar’s distinctive home, located on Cross

THE HUSTLE AND BUSTLE OF EVERYDAY

Highway, is minutes away from downtown

LIFE. The renovated 19th century farmhouse,

and the beach.

which is currently on the market, is the perfect combination of sleek and organic.

“It is a relaxed, chic farmhouse echoing

Kitchen

“What I love about Westport is that it reflects my philosophy of living: relaxed with an underlying sophistication,” she says.

coastal vibrations,” Mar says. “The design

She also loves the restaurants, local farm-

is a seamless mix of natural materials and

ers markets, the changing seasons and the

modern furniture, with many indoor and out-

beautiful landscape of Westport.

door entertaining spaces.”

One of the many visually stunning rooms in the house is the kitchen.

Mar began her interior design journey at the early age of 16 when she purchased her first chair at an antique shop. She began her

“My absolute favorite room is my kitchen,

career as an antique dealer and has been in

with its oversized stone top island, original

the design industry for 20 years. Mar enjoys

beams, stainless steel cabinetry and set of

working on coastal homes that reflect her

doors that open onto the patio and the vista

philosophy of serene design. She describes

beyond,” she says. “My newly renovated

her personal style and her interior design

kitchen—and my home, for that matter—

style as comfortable, understated, modern

have called me back to my passion for cook-

and peaceful.

ing and entertaining.”

There are several standout architectural details that are unique to Mar's home.

The house contains an original brick dou-

“My goal for my design projects is to bring out serenity and tranquility in the environment that my clients live in,” she says.

This year, Mar has much to be grateful for.

ble-sided fireplace that runs through every

“I’m incredibly grateful for the strength

level, and the original brick oven also still

and courage that the universe has brought

remains but has been modernized. The

to my family over the past year,” she says.

November 2018 | Westport Lifestyle

27

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Westport Lifestyle | November 2018

November 2018 | Westport Lifestyle

29

CULINARY CREATIONS

SUZANNE LENZER’S APPLE CROSTATA A NEW TWIST ON YOUR TRADITIONAL APPLE PIE ARTICLE ANNA BARNES | PHOTOGRAPHY NICOLE FRANZEN

TIRED OF THE TRADITIONAL APPLE PIE

FOR

YOUR

THANKSGIVING

DESSERT? Try chef, expert food stylist and author Suzanne Lenzer’s Apple Crostata from her delectable book, GRAZE. What she's thankful for? Her eyes and hands, "almost everything I love to do—cooking, writing, gardening—it all would be lost to me otherwise."

30

Westport Lifestyle | November 2018

Jesup Hall Community, Fine Foods & Spirits

APPLE CROSTATA INGREDIENTS + 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour, plus more as needed + 8 tablespoons very cold unsalted butter + 1 teaspoon sea salt + 1/4-1/3 cup ice water

LUNCH thursday to saturday

+ 3 firm, tart apples + Good squeeze fresh lemon juice + 4 tablespoons sugar, plus more for sprinkling + 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

DIRECTIONS In a food processor, combine flour, butter and salt. Process the mixture until it resembles small peas, 10 to 12 pulses. Transfer dough to

DINNER tuesday to saturday

a large bowl and add 1/4 cup water. Use your hands to integrate the water into the dough, adding a bit more if needed to bring it together.

You may need to add another 2 tablespoons to get it all combined. Be sure not to overwork the dough; you should see chips of butter. To make the crostata, form the dough into a flat disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 1 hour or up to 2 days.

While the dough chills, peel and thinly slice apples (use a mandoline to make it easier and more consistent). Toss apples in a large bowl with lemon juice, more or less depending on

HAPPY TIME tuesday to friday

your own taste, but know that this also helps keep the apples from browning—along with 2 tablespoons sugar.

90 Post Road East (203)557-6198

jesuphallwestport.com info@jesuphallwestport.com

@jesuphallwestport

@billtaibe

CONTINUED >

November 2018 | Westport Lifestyle

31

CULINARY CREATIONS

(CON TI N U ED)

Once the dough is well chilled, unwrap and place it on a clean, lightly floured surface. Use a rolling pin to hit the dough a few times to start to flatten it and make it easier to roll out. Roll the dough into a large round about 1/8-inch thick (the edges will be scraggly, which is fine), then drape dough over rolling pin and transfer to a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Preheat oven to 375 degrees F.

In a small bowl, combine flour and remaining 2 tablespoons sugar. Spread mixture in the center of the crostata, leaving about a 2-inch border. Top sugar-flour mixture with apples, using more or less depending on how much fruit you like. Fold edges of dough in over apples in pleats, so you have a border of dough with majority of fruit exposed in the center of the crostata.

Chill crostata for 15-20 minutes while the oven heats.

Just before baking, brush edges of dough with water, sprinkle with more sugar and transfer to oven. Bake until crust is golden brown and fruit is bubbling, 20-25 minutes.

LOVE

YOUR

CURLS 231 POST ROAD WEST 203.226.6839 GREGANDTONYSALON.COM @ GREGTONY_OUIDAD

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Westport Lifestyle | November 2018

custom homes - remodeling architectural design engineering & site work custom interiors ph: 203.227.1055 www.westportbuilder.com 8 Wright Street, Suite #107, Westport, CT 06880 New Home Builder # 014536 . Home Improvement # 646710 November 2018 | Westport Lifestyle

33

LOCALS ONLY

WHIP YOUR HOLIDAY LOOK INTO SHAPE MEET THE TEAM BEHIND WESTPORT’S NEW NYC-STYLE SALON

AMY PAL HAS A KNACK FOR SPOTTING INDUSTRY TRENDS. In 2016 she had just sold her spin studios in Ridgefield and Wilton. Noticing a lack of new hair salons in the area that combined the blow-dry bar concept with a full-service salon, she opened Whip Salon in Ridgefield six months later.

The salon, with its edgy New York City vibe, was a hit. When Bedford Square in Westport was leasing, opening a second location in the new downtown development was a “no-brainer moment.” She loved the vibrant location, the history of the building and the vision the developers had for the whole area—and she wanted in.

ARTICLE JEN BERNIKER | PHOTOGRAPHY MAYA PORRINO 34

Westport Lifestyle | November 2018

Amy's goal is to provide clients with “excellence, ease and edge.” She partnered with General Manager and Master

(left to right) Cathy Bull, Carolina Villalón, Jackie Gianelli

Stylist Shay, who has run several of her own salons; and her Head Colorist Suzanne Baumann, who has been in the business for 28 years.

“We have some fierce talent. People are super passionate about what they do," Amy says.

In addition to top-notch talent, Amy defines Whip Salon with a carefully selected music playlist, a free drink (either “wild” or “tame”), phone charging stations, fast and free Wi-Fi, online booking using an app and the ability to tip through Venmo.

“People are sitting for three hours to get highlights, and that time should be a stress-free and fun experience for them,” she says.

Whip Salon also has two treatment rooms for Medi-Spa services. For customers who want to quit mascara, Cathy Bull has 300 choices of lash extensions, single strands of synthetic or silk material that are applied one by one for a thicker lash line.

“Cathy is a pro. People are obsessed,” Amy says.

Amy's board certified Derma Technician is Carolina Villalon. A former banker, she was going to school for tattoo removal and fell in love with micro blading, which is a form of semi-permanent tattoos for eyebrows.

“I have clients aged 18 to 95," Carolina says. "Some just

Amy Pal

want to enhance and define their brows. Some have cancer, alopecia, lupus and other conditions. People are tired of waking up with the anxiety of having to put on so much makeup every day and worry about it wiping off when showering or working out. Everyone leaves happy.”

Cosmetic injectables like Botox are available through Jackie Giannelli, a family nurse practitioner and aesthetic injector. A mom from Ridgefield, Jackie prides herself on “helping people put their best face forward.”

If you've got a big night out, Whip Salon also offers makeup application services as well as lessons for adults and teens.

After opening Whip, Amy, an art lover, saw an opportunity to do something fun in the hallway. She approached Bedford Square developers and now also runs Newtown Roux Gallery, a 100-foot-long exhibition space featuring the work of emerging realist and abstract painters. The gallery hosts eight exhibitions per year. In the future, she hopes to work with Bedford Square tenants to create collaborative events to bring merchants and customers together.

“We have lots up our sleeves," Amy says.

When asked what she is thankful for, Amy replied, "My hus-

Shay and Suzanne Baumann

band and my two boys are so supportive and always keep me laughing and grounded no matter what's going on. The talented staff that I work with that inspire me every single day.

And Whip Salon's friendly, supportive clients never cease to amaze me with their kindness."

For more information, visit WhipSalon.com.

November 2018 | Westport Lifestyle

35

N OV E M B E R

LIFESTYLE CALENDAR

OCT. 29 BABY MOTHER GOOSE

6 p.m.! Don't miss this action-packed

cocktail of biting satire, quick-wit-

live show featuring kids’ favorite

ted physical comedy and gentle

characters as life-size puppets and

moments of deep pathos set to

costume characters in “Peppa Pig’s

capture the parallel and intersecting

The Westport Library

Surprise.” Come join Peppa, George,

paths of a dynamic creative process

This 30-minute Early Literacy Pro-

Mummy Pig, Daddy Pig and more in

and relationship is not to be missed!

gram includes rhymes, songs and

an all-singing, all-dancing adventure

QuickCenter.Fairfield.edu

play and is designed forpre-walk-

full of songs, games and surprises!

ing children under the age of 2.

PalaceStamford.org

WestportLibrary.org

9

1, 8 WESTPORT FARMERS MARKET

FOURTH ANNUAL VETERANS DAY BENEFIT FOR CATCH A LIFT FUND

A CHARLIE BROWN CHRISTMAS The Palace Theatre

A Charlie Brown Christmas, the Emmy and Peabody Award-win-

Birchwood Country Club

ning story by Charles M. Schulz, has

The Westport Farmers Market is

Enjoy an evening of inspiring first-

warmed the hearts of millions of fans

committed to providing fresh, lo-

hand stories from veterans, food and

since it first aired on television more

cal, healthy and seasonal food. It

drink, music by DJ Sean "Big Daddy"

than 50 years ago. Now the classic

aspires to create a fun, safe and

McKee and meet Catch a Lift Fund

animated television special comes to

healthy

environment

veterans all in support of the orga-

life in this faithful stage adaptation

for education and socialization. Its

nization's mission to help wounded

featuring all of your favorite char-

mission is to increase awareness,

veterans re-establish their lives and

acters and classic Vince Guaraldi

knowledge and support for local

regain their purpose through fitness.

score. PalaceStamford.org

producers focused on sustainable

CatchALiftFund.org

50 Imperial Ave., Westport, Connecticut

and

community

healthy

growing

practices.

WestportFarmersMarket.com

15

3, 4

THOUSAND PINES

CRAFTWESTPORT

Playhouse Happy Hour - Thousand Pines

30 SPAMALOT The Palace Theatre

The Tony Award-winning Best Mu-

New to the Playhouse? Or looking to

sical Monty Python’s Spamalot be-

Staples High School

just have a good time before the show?

gins its search for the Holy Grail

Make your fall shopping plans NOW!

Then join us for a pre-show bash on

in the fall of 2018. This outrageous

Presented by the Westport Young

the patio! Enjoy great food, beer and

musical comedy is lovingly ripped

Woman's League, CraftWestport is the

wine, and fun prizes! Pre-show cock-

off from the film classic Monty Py-

longest running indoor fine craft event

tail party at 6:30 p.m. Performance

thon and the Holy Grail and tells the

in Connecticut. For 43 years, this show

at 8 p.m. WestportPlayhouse.org/

tale of King Arthur and his Knights

has been the perfect venue for one-of-a-

ThousandPines

of the Round Table as they embark

kind holiday shopping. It features 175 top craft artists countrywide and includes a pop-up Marketplace of local Connecticut makers. Net proceeds are donated to charity. WYWL.com/craft-westport

9

on their quest for the Holy Grail.

16-17

PalaceStamford.org

LARRY KEIGWIN AND NICOLE WOLCOTT IN PLACES PLEASE! Quick Center for the Arts

Set backstage during the final moments before the curtain rises, this

We are always accepting submissions

cabaret-style performance is a zany

for events you'd like to see included

The Palace Theatre

trip backstage giving you privy to the

in our Calendar section. Submissions

Peppa Pig comes to Stamford for two

anxiety and playfulness of life be-

are accepted via the Contact Us tab

shows on Friday, Nov. 9 at 2 p.m. and

hind the scenes. This buzz-worthy

at LifestylePubs.com/Westport.

PEPPA PIG LIVE

36

24

Westport Lifestyle | November 2018

5A SCONSET SQUARE • WESTPORT bespokedesigns.com • 203-557-6777

November 2018 | Westport Lifestyle

NICOLE DETONE PHOTOGRAPHY

INVITATIONS & FINE STATIONERY

37

LOCAL’S CHOICE

FAMILY DRINKS WE LOVE THEM, BUT IT’S NO SECRET THAT SOME FAMILY MEMBERS MAKE THE HOLIDAYS A LITTLE MORE INTERESTING. CHEERS TO THEM!

1

THE MOTHERIN-LAW

INGREDIENTS

2

THE HIPSTER COUSIN

INGREDIENTS

3

( K ID-FRIENDLY!)

THE ROWDY NIECES + NEPHEWS

INGREDIENTS

+ 1 1/2 ounces vodka

+ 1 1/2 ounces vodka

+ 1/2 cup sugar

+ 1 part club soda or tonic

+ 1 1/2 ounces Baileys Irish Cream

+ 1/4 cup baking cocoa

+ 1 part Sprite or lemon-lime soda + 1 part cranberry juice + Lime and cranberries for garnish

DIRECTIONS

Pumpkin Spice Liqueur + 3 ounces cereal milk (steep cereal

+ Dash of salt + 1/3 cup hot water

of your choice—we like pumpkin

+ 4 cups almond milk

spice Cheerios—in milk for 25-30

+ 3/4 teaspoon vanilla extract

minutes, then strain)

+ Mini marshmallows and chocolate syrup for garnish

and cranberry juice to a glass of your

DIRECTIONS

choice—the more ornate, the better.

Fill a rocks glass (or any unconvention-

DIRECTIONS

Garnish with lime and cranberries if

al container you have laying around)

In a saucepan, combine sugar, salt and

desired and enjoy!

with desired amount of ice. Add vodka

cocoa. Add water and bring to a boil,

and pumpkin spice liqueur, then top

stirring for 2 minutes. Stir in almond

with cereal milk. Cheers!

milk and heat to desired temperature

Add vodka, club soda or tonic, Sprite

(don’t boil). Once at desired temperature, remove from heat, add vanilla and whisk until frothy. Top with toasted marshmallows and chocolate syrup— the more sugar, the better!

38

Westport Lifestyle | November 2018

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Every box has a story

Lux Bond & Green is proud to sponsor the Westport Country Playhouse Premiere Circle, the philanthropic group offering private salons and other privileged access to its most generous supporters.

• QUALITY

VALUE •