Westport , CT April 2019

APRIL 2019

LifestylePubs.com/Westport

SOMETHING GREEN: AN ECO-FRIENDLY APPROACH TO YOUR BIG DAY SNEAK PEEK OF THE INCREDIBLE NEW WESTPORT LIBRARY LOCAL EARTHFRIENDLY FINDS

NOURISHING YOUR DAILY EXPERIENCE

Photographed by Tim Lenz

LIFESTYLE LETTER

APRIL 2019 PUBLISHER

Marisa MacLean | marisa.maclean@lifestylepubs.com EDITORIAL SUPERVISOR

Robin Moyer Chung | robin.chung@lifestylepubs.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Going Green

Robin Moyer Chung, Sophia Andersen CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Mindy Briar, John Videler

DO YOU HEAR THAT? It’s the sound of nature springing to life after a long winter’s nap.

Birds are chirping, flowers are blooming and children are playing outside as the weather gets warmer and the days grow longer.

This month, at Westport Lifestyle, we bring you our Eco issue in honor of Earth Day on April 22. Inspired by the infinite beauty of the earth—and our desire to preserve and protect it—we’ve highlighted many elements of our town that are adapting eco-friendly practices.

In this issue, we get a sneak peek at the progress of the Westport Library multi-million-dollar renovation. The construction plans include the use of solar panels and new high-efficiency HVAC units incorporated beautifully into the existing structure.

Spring is also the beginning of wedding season! In this issue, we’ll attend a gorgeous spring wedding featuring many eco-friendly components from local vendors. We also explore an eco-friendly way to remodel your kitchen utilizing your existing cabinets.

Being green can also be glamorous! Keep reading to learn about new eco-friendly fashion trends, products and home decor.

CORPORATE TEAM CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry

We also get a lesson in fire safety from the amazing men and women at the Westport Fire Department. Living in a coastal community, they do a lot of life-saving over and above fighting fires.

Whether or not you have a green thumb, we hope the stories in these pages invoke feelings of gratitude for the wonderful world we live in—and the wonderful people in our community who strive to sustain it. Not sure where to start? As the saying goes,

CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson EDITORIAL MANAGER Nicolette Martin AD MANAGER Chad Jensen REGIONAL SALES DIRECTOR Eric Williams WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell

think globally and act locally!

Happy spring, Westport!

Can’t wait to see you around town.

ARIZONA | CALIFORNIA | COLORADO | CONNECTICUT | FLORIDA | GEORGIA IDAHO | ILLINOIS | KANSAS | MARYLAND | MINNESOTA | MISSOURI | MONTANA NEVADA | NEW JERSEY | NORTH CAROLINA | OHIO | OKLAHOMA | OREGON TENNESSEE | TEXAS | VIRGINIA | WASHINGTON

ON THE COVER Our green wedding feature incorporating wonderful local vendors and beautiful eco-friendly options. Turn to page 24 to read more.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY MINDY BRIAR 6

Westport Lifestyle | April 2019

Marisa MacLean, Publisher

LifestylePubs.com/Westport

514 W 26TH ST., KANSAS CITY, MO 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.

CHOICES = R E S U LT S

S E R V I N G FA I R F I E L D C O U N T Y F O R 5 Y E A R S ! !

Giving you the choices you deserve.

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INSIDE THE ISSUE APRIL 2019

FEATURES 18 It's a Bird... It's a Plane... It's Firemen! (and Firewomen!)

Protecting Our Environment and Protecting Our People: A Typical Day for the Westport Fire Department

24 Something Green An Eco-Friendly Approach to Your Big Day Is as Easy as Saying 'I Do'

30 Eco-Genius Solution to Kitchen Renovations Further Proof that Happiness Comes from Within

24 18

34 The Incredible New Westport Library

30

34

DEPARTMENTS 6

Lifestyle Letter

10

Good Times

14

Around Town

18

Inspired By

30 Renovate & Refine 34 Open House 40 Lifestyle Calendar 42 Trend Setter

GOOD TIMES 1.

2.

3.

WestportMoms' Two-Year Anniversary Despite a squall and below-0 temperatures, WestportMoms celebrated its two-year anniversary with a party at The Pearl at Longshore on Wednesday, Jan. 30. WestportMoms goes beyond word of mouth to offer an up-to-date, informational and exciting reference for local families who want to stay in the know about everything within the Westport community and beyond.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY MATT DECOLA

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

1. Megan Rutstein and Melissa Post (co-founders of WestportMoms.com) | 2. Gillian Libby, Miryha Fantegrossi, Elizabeth Hauser, Natalia Feinstein, Jennifer Katzner and Papri Harkey | 3. Robin Spolansky, Kimberly Greenberg, Jodi Sosman and Alison Fagen | 4. Jenna Goldman, Megan Rutstein, Melissa Post, Jen Falik and Emily Rosnick | 5. Johanna Snibbe-Nardin, Kristin Hantler, Sugey Zimmer, Ursula Lyon, Nikki Brancati-Harrington and Natalia Romero | 6. Ali Matthews, Carly Ritter, Robin Kaiden, Jennifer Mehok, Melissa Post and Megan Rutstein | 7. Sarah True, Cori Adams, Megan Rutstein and Erica Bryniczka | 8. Courtney Davis, Victoria Considine, Kristin Shafer and Erin Spillman | 9. Megan Rutstein, Melissa Post and Marisa MacLean

The Moth at Westport Country Playhouse Westport Country Playhouse presented The Ties That Bind: The Moth in Westport. The sold-out live show featured five storytellers including Westport residents; Jane Green, New York Times best-selling author; and Dan Woog, writer and founder of the “06880” blog. Since 1997, The Moth has presented more than 35,000 true personal stories, told live, without notes, to standing-roomonly audiences worldwide. PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOELLE SCHROCK FOR THE MOTH

1.

2.

3.

1. Jane Green | 2. Dan Woog | 3. Storytellers Dan Woog, Alistair Bane, Henia Lewin, Host Dame Wilburn, Trina Michelle Robinson, Jane Green and musician Ezgi Icellioglu 10

Westport Lifestyle | April 2019

DR. MASHA KOGAN & DR. VIRGINIA ROMANO

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invisalign® | B OTOX ® | iTero® | ZO O M Whitening® | KöR Whitening® | P i c a s s o Laser®

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Westport Lifestyle | April 2019

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cesarsierramd.com | 203-226-1696 W E S T P O R T 125 Kings Highway Nor th

I N J E C TA B L E S

AROUND TOWN

INVITATIONS & FINE STATIONERY

WESTPORT WOMAN'S CLUB ART SHOW On Saturday evening, April 28, and Sunday afternoon, April 29, the popular Westport Woman’s Club’s Art Show, curated by Miggs Burroughs, opens to the public. Singer Melissa Newman will perform at Saturday’s opening reception. Chair Jo Fuchs Luscombe notes this year’s Art Show honors late artist Bobbie Friedman, wife of Drew Friedman.

This annual show, featuring local artists, seeks to generate sales for them and funds for needs-based college scholarships for Staples High School seniors. WestportWomansClub.org

WESTPORT ARBOR PROGRAM Arbor Program was launched in 2016 to enhance Westport's parks and to provide a way to honor and celebrate the lives and achievements of friends and families. Donors can choose their location and tree.

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

Price of the tree is based on the cost of planting and a fund for five-year maintenance (e.g., fertilization, watering, pruning and replacement if necessary).

WestportFriendsOfParkRec.com

14

Westport Lifestyle | April 2019

GRAND E LE GAN CE 10 HICKORY LANE | WESTON | $2.350M

THE GREAT DUCK PROJECT AT MAKER FAIRE The Great Duck Project is a first-of-its-kind global crowdsourcing science and art initiative, allowing people from around the world to 3D print pieces that will become part of a 6-foot-tall, 476-piece duck.

Go to TheGreatDuckProject.org to sign up.

You'll be emailed a file containing a specific duck part to be printed on a 3D printer, then follow the instructions. The duck will be built at Maker Faire Westport (Westport Library) on Saturday, April 27.

For more information, contact Mark Mathias at mark@remarkablesteam.org, 203.226.1791.

AWARE CT CREATES A SAFE SPACE FOR REFUGEE GIRLS Make a difference in the lives of young women in our community. Local nonprofit AWARE CT (Assisting Women Through Action, Resources & Education) is committed to uplifting and empowering underserved women and children in Fairfield County. This year, the nonprofit has partnered with CIRI (Connecticut Institute for Refugees & Immigrants) to create a safespace for the daughters of political refugees and asylum seekers residing in Bridgeport.To learn more, become a volunteer or to donate to AWARE CT, visit AWARECT.org.

WESTPORT OUTDOOR MARKET Organized by Annette Norton, owner of the retail store Savvy + Grace, 146 Main

MICHELLE

COMPANY

your home. your realtor.

St., Westport.

CONTINUED >

MICHELLEANDCOMPANY.COM | WILLIAM RAVEIS LUXURY PROPERTIES | 203.454.4663

April 2019 | Westport Lifestyle

15

AROUND TOWN (CON TI N UED) An outdoor market with an eclectic diversified mix of artisans, being held at the parking lot off Main Street on April 28 behind the store Savvy + Grace. The vendors are from all over Connecticut. It will be a tightly curated selection of jewelry, art, crafts and more by local artisans and crafters.

Bringing a community gathering vibe to downtown, suitable for the whole family. Rain date the following Sunday. 10 a.m. 4 p.m.

COCKTAILS FOR A CURE Thee Barn at Westport Country Playhouse Join us April 4 from 7–9:30 p.m. for an evening of cocktails, light bites, treats and music at the Barn at Westport Country Playhouse to

support

pancreatic

cancer

research! Admission includes wine and beer, hors d’oeuvres, music and a custom candy bar provided

by Rosebud Boxes.

SPRING FOR ABILIS GALA

90 Post Rd E Westport, CT Side Entrance Next to Restoration Hardware

Brunch Prix Fixe

Sundays

Woodway Country Club Abilis,

a

nonprofit

organi-

zation that provides services and

supports

for

individuals

with special needs and their families, will hold its Spring for Abilis Gala on Saturday, April 27, at 7 p.m., at the Woodway Country Club in Darien. The evening will include a Champagne reception, cocktails, dinner and dancing, as well as silent and live auctions. Live music will be provided by ETA Music. Funds raised at the Spring for Abilis Gala will help Abilis provide essential services and support for more than 700 individuals of all ages with special needs and their families. The tax-deductible tickets start at $350 and can be reserved online at 501Auctions.com/spring4abilis.

16

Westport Lifestyle | April 2019

April 2019 | Westport Lifestyle

17

INSPIRED BY

It's a Bird... It’s a Plane...

It's Firemen! (and Firewomen!)

PROTECTING OUR ENVIRONMENT AND PROTECTING OUR PEOPLE: A TYPICAL DAY FOR THE WESTPORT FIRE DEPARTMENT ARTICLE ROBIN MOYER CHUNG PHOTOGRAPHY JOHN VIDELER AND PROVIDED

IF YOU’RE ME, OR ONE OF MY FRIENDS, YOU

KNOW

THE

WESTPORT

FIRE

DEPARTMENT AS THE GUYS WHO SHOW UP WHEN THE FIRE ALARM GOES OFF WHILE YOU’RE COOKING DINNER. But they do much more than protect us from our inability to prepare a meal without a smoke signal.

In fact, calling them “firefighters” may even be a misnomer. Yes, they battle blazes, but that’s only the beginning.

“Our firefighters' mission and ambition is to protect life and property through prevention, education and suppression. Our proudest moments are to save lives and deliver the highest quality service to those in need,” says Assistant Chief Jeffrey Gootman.

For instance, on a rainy evening in February 2017, an elderly couple confused a boat ramp with a street and drove their car into Saugatuck River. Firefighters were on the scene in minutes, dove in and pulled them from the icy water (the wife survived but the husband could not be revived.) Last summer, two firefighters pulled a man out of a swimming pool on Morningside Drive South moments before he drowned. And firefighters were first to test the air at Coleytown Middle School this fall, after scores of students were sent home with flu-like symptoms.

They’ve delivered babies, rescued workers from trenches and saved the life of a woman with an automated extended defibrillator (AED) after she had been clinically dead for 4 minutes.

When they’re not performing cape-worthy heroics, they’re teaching your children and seniors about fire safety and raising money for veterans and disabled individuals.

18

Westport Lifestyle | April 2019

Performing a vehicle extrication; AC Cohen, AC Gootman, FF Workman, FF Perrotti and Lt. Lupo

HERE ARE SOME EXTRAORDINARY WFD NUMBERS:

19,000:

4,036:

terrifying rescue (cold water, trench, building collapse, vehicle extrication)

last year from stakeholders (residents

and other disciplines.

and visitors).

Number of man-hours spent training in 2018. Training includes all manner of

82 67 15

NUMBER OF CALLS FOR ACTUAL FIRES.

Record number of calls they received

Under 5 and Over 65: Ages of highest risk groups for fire incidents.

NUMBER OF FIREFIGHTERS IN WESTPORT. Of these, 54 are EMTs, 13 are paramedics.

NUMBER OF FIREFIGHTERS ON DUTY DURING EACH SHIFT.

COUNTLESS:

Number of specialty areas within the WFD, including:

HAZARDOUS MATERIALS RESPONSE TEAM, Fairfield County Hazardous Incident Response Team (FCHIRT) Lt. Tobias Ostapchuk “Hazmat is the end of the line in the public safety response chain. In most instances, no other resources are coming in after the Hazmat team. Our team mitigates anything and everything that our front-line public safety professionals (fire/police/EMS) cannot handle.

“With our AreaRAE meter package, we can monitor for combustible atmo-

4:

Number of fire stations around town: headquarters on Post Road, Coleytown, Greens Farms and Saugatuck.

3:

Number of times my son, as a kindergartner, fact-checked 911, causing firefighters to be dispatched to our residence.

1:

Number of minutes it takes our firefighters to get dressed and out of the firehouse during an incident.

spheres, carbon monoxide, hydrogen sulfide and oxygen levels. We also are able to detect volatile organic compounds and radioactive materials.”

CONTINUED >

April 2019 | Westport Lifestyle

19

INSPIRED BY

(CON TI N U ED)

TECHNICAL RESCUE

Fire safety education

Asst. Chief Brian Meadows “Most frequent are motor vehicle accidents and extrications… during [which] the vehicle is cut away from the injured occupants using hydraulic rescue tools.

“Last year there were 25 responses for water, ice or swift water rescue.

“Rope rescue, low or highangle is another area of concern, in the event a [construction] worker gets injured and is unable to return to the ground on their own. Using rope rescue equipment, firefighters will safely rescue the injured worker.”

COMMUNICATIONS RESPONSE TEAM Asst. Chief Matt Cohen “[We] respond to scheduled and large-scale emergency scenes. The team aids the incident commander in setting up a command post, providing tactical communications and procuring necessary resources. The team [also] augments a public safety communication system in times of failure. The team’s response vehicle is outfitted with deployable radios and on-board radio infrastructure. It also has an outfitted conference room for use as a command post. “[Recently] the team responded to the tornadoes in Brookfield. The team was deployed for multiple operational periods and provided interoperable radio communications, on-scene data solutions, as well as a command post for the Operations Chief.”

COMBINED POLICE AND FIRE DIVE TEAM Lt. Todd Denke “The team includes six WFD members, five Police Department members and one EMS paramedic. Each month's training is put on by two members of the team and focuses on skills such as search patterns, vehicle recovery, night dive, etc. In the event of an incident, the dive team is paged to respond. The on-duty divers work with responding personnel to perform size-up and get the

gas grills (which is the first thing I did after speaking

ball rolling until off-duty divers arrive.”

with him.) He also stresses the importance of having a home fire plan: every family member should have

FIRE PREVENTION AND PUBLIC FIRE EDUCATION

two exits from their bedrooms and a meeting spot

Fire Marshal Nathaniel Gibbons

outside the home. Knowing your family is safe affords

Responsible for fire code enforcement and educa-

firefighters valuable time to save your home instead of

tion for children, senior citizens and venues such as

searching for occupants (which is the second thing I

Slice of Saugatuck.

did after speaking with him.)

According to the fire marshal, the most common

A huge thank you to the firefighters who risk their lives

causes of fires in Westport are carelessness and

every day to save ours, who smile graciously at cooks

human behavior, such as throwing ashes in garbage

who set off fire alarms and who understand that 911 is a

bins and not checking propane appliances such as

magical number for young children.

20

Westport Lifestyle | April 2019

Lt. Dan Mascolo, firefighter Liz Ferguson and firefighter Pete Chila

Yes, they battle blazes, but that’s only the beginning.

IF CHANEL & JIMI HENDRIX HAD A DAUGHTER...

117 Post Road East Westport (203) 557-4157

west2westport.com Water rescue; FF Balich April 2019 | Westport Lifestyle

21

Mark your calendars for these exciting upcoming WDMA events: Downtown Westport Fashion & Beauty Event Thursday, May 16 and Friday, May 17 Westport Sidewalk Sales *New Dates June 28, 29, and 30 *N Westport Fine Arts Festival *New Dates Saturday, July 20 and Sunday, July 21 Westoberfest Saturday, October 19

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Westport Lifestyle | April 2019

April 2019 | Westport Lifestyle

23

something green

WITH COUNTLESS LOCAL RESOURCES, AN ECO-FRIENDLY APPROACH TO YOUR BIG DAY IS AS EASY AS SAYING ‘I DO’ ARTICLE SOPHIA ANDERSEN PHOTOGRAPHY MINDY BRIAR

24

Westport Lifestyle | April 2019

April marks the beginning of wedding season, and with spring in the air, it's a great time to be inspired to give back to planet Earth.

Although it may be difficult to make every element of your wedding eco-friendly, even a little change can make a big impact. One effective yet simple way to plan a more environmentally conscious wedding is to shop locally. Did you know there are enough local resources to plan your entire wedding without having to drive more than 30 minutes from Westport? Just think of all the gas, miles and time you save! Not to mention, you will be supporting local businesses all the while, which keeps our beautiful hometown economy strong and thriving. The best part is, many local vendors also offer environStationery: Bespoke Designs

mentally friendly options, like eco-conscious stationery from Bespoke Designs.

“We work closely with companies that are deeply eco-conscious. This invitation [pictured] is created on tree-free paper using low-VOC inks in a 100 percent wind-powered facility,” says Shari Lebowitz of Bespoke Designs.

In the case of flowers and decor, look no further than Fiore Flower Studio. This creative and unique company uses plantdyed silk ribbon, recycled wood chargers and up-cycled brass candle holders paired with fresh floral arrangements inspired CONTINUED >

April 2019 | Westport Lifestyle

25

SOMETHING GREEN

(CON TI N U ED)

by wildflowers. Even jewelry can be eco-friendly: Faye Kim, a fine and custom jewelry destination in Westport, participates in the global effort to preserve our planet's future as a certified retailer of Harmony Recycled Metals.

PRO TIP: We asked a local pro, Sarah True, owner

and

creative

director

at

True

Event

(TrueEvent.com), for her No. 1 piece of advice when planning a "green" wedding.

"One of the most common questions we get when working with couples is how they can donate the flowers at the end of the night," Sarah says. "It is a great way to be able to recycle your wedding flowers and to spread joy to people in nursing homes or in hospitals and to let the flowers live on past the wedding day. And there are some amazing companies out there that will do it for you. One of our favorites is Repeat Roses [RepeatRoses.com] and another is Rebloom [RebloomIt.com]"

26

Westport Lifestyle | April 2019

vendor list MODELS: Rob and Hannah Guinta PHOTOGRAPHER: Mindy Briar Photography.

MindyBriar.com VENUE: The Inn at Longshore.

InnAtLongshore.com BRIDAL HAIR AND MAKEUP: Whip Salon.

WhipSalon.com DRESS: Designed by Lela Rose.

Available at Plumed Serpent.

PlumedSerpentBridal.com HEADPIECE AND VEIL: Designed by Debra Moreland.

Available at Plumed Serpent.

PlumedSerpentBridal.com RINGS, EARRINGS AND BRACELET: Faye Kim. FayeKim.com SHOES: Designed by Jeffrey Campbell.

Available at Shoes’N’More.

ShoesNMore.com SPECIALTY LIGHTING: Vivid Events.

YourVividEvent.com CAKE: The Cakebox.

TheCakeboxOfCT.com CHAIRS AND TABLE: Abbey Tent.

AbbeyTent.com FLOWERS AND STYLING: Fiore Flower Studio.

FioreFlowerStudio.com STATIONERY AND CALLIGRAPHY: Bespoke Designs.

BespokeDesigns.com

April 2019 | Westport Lifestyle

27

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RENOVATE & REFINE ECO-SOLUTION TO OVERHAULING MESSY CABINETS

ShelfGenie Proves Happiness Comes from Within ARTICLE ROBIN MOYER CHUNG | PHOTOGRAPHY JOHN VIDELER

A ShelfGenie interior with gliders

FEW THINGS DIMINISH ONE’S ZEST FOR LIFE FASTER THAN

Building a better cabinet starts with a meeting with Alex. A bit of

FORAGING FOR A SAUCEPAN IN THE TROLL’S DEN OF A COR-

background about him: Alex spent the first 23 years of his career

NER CABINET. And battling one’s way through an overflowing pantry

traveling the world as a menswear buyer and merchandiser for

can force the most eco-minded of folks to fantasize about ripping out

Saks, Original Penguin, Banana Republic and more. So his interest

their kitchen and dumping it in a landfill. Which is why ShelfGenie’s

in design and quality made SG an appealing fit, seeking functional

custom cabinet interiors—with pull-outs, dividers and sloping

solutions within raw spaces.

shelves—will make you more excited than, perhaps, a cabinet should.

The initial meeting is a friendly chat about your needs and shop-

To be clear, SG doesn’t replace cabinets; they transform the inte-

ping habits. For instance, are you a Costco club member? You’ll need

rior shelves from repositories of mayhem to easy-to-access havens

gliders that hold 100-200 pounds of product. Do you shop organic?

of domestic bliss. Doll them up with some fresh paint, and you have

You may need dividers and gliders of varying heights to accommo-

a new kitchen at a fraction of the price of a renovation, without the

date “loose” bulk purchases. Do you love to cook? You’ll want what

stress and environmental havoc.

Alex calls a “lazy Susan on steroids,” a Star Trek-esque assemblage

“People want to be neat,” explains SG owner Alex Modica, “but they don’t know how to do it.”

And, to be fair, some of us are neat but still have drawers full of lidless Tupperware and… things.

of rotating shelves with small gliders so hundreds of spices and oils are easy to locate and grab.

According to Alex, clients are surprised at all the ways in which they can improve storage. He shows photos of pantries built

“You don’t need to have a mental disorder to have a professional

beneath staircases, with shelves sloped to display all manner

organizer,” Alex says (referring to A&E’s Hoarders). You just need a

of unseen and forgotten foodstuffs. There were gliders beneath

desire to get your stuff without organizing a search party.

kitchen sinks, cut to accommodate whatever permanent things

30

Westport Lifestyle | April 2019

“PEOPLE WANT TO BE NE AT, BUT THE Y DON’ T KNOW HOW TO DO IT.” –ALE X MODICA, SHELFGENIE OWNER Before: An impossible pantry

lurk beneath kitchen sinks, and new cabinet interiors SG created behind original mid-century facades.

By the end of meeting, he’s already whipped up design possibilities for you with a proprietary 3D design tool.

After: Pantry with a ShelfGenie makeover

Alex Modica, owner of ShelfGenie Fairfield County

After you approve the designs, his team schedules a time to measure the spaces. While your cabinet doors remain intact, you don’t need to be a slave to their dimensions. If you want more interior room, he can consolidate spaces behind them, giving the outward effect of multiple cupboards but increasing the internal storage space.

Next, the shelves are created in their studio, then installed in your home. The entire process takes around eight weeks depending on the scope of the project.

And, then, he waits for you to experience the special ShelfGenie joy. “[SG] makes your life so easy. When I say it, it sounds like a marketing line, but clients tell me that all that time,” Alex admits. “One client told me, ‘I think of you every day.’”

To paraphrase Beyonce: Happiness comes from you. No one else can make you happy. Except, perhaps, someone who can help you find everything in your cabinet.

April 2019 | Westport Lifestyle

31

Serving Westport and the surrounding communities Greenwich | Stamford | Nor walk | Southport

Happy Hour

Monday-Friday 5pm-7pm

With decades of experience, Blackstones Steakhouse Group is proud of its impeccable ser vice, ambiance and extraordinar y food.

Let me show you the way home 203.216.1287

Check out our website and social media for the latest specials and live music nights.

Call to make reservations for our Private Events - Book your Holiday Party with us!

28 W. Putnam Ave, Green w ic h 101 Broad Street , St a m f ord 181 Main St reet , Nor w a l k 2600 Post Ro a d, Sout hpor t

203-661-8700 203-595-5415 203-840-9020 203-955-1470

www.BlackstonesSteakhouse.com

mindy.wolkstein@raveis.com mindywolkstein.raveis.com 203.216.1287

47 Riverside Avenue Westport, CT 06880

32

Westport Lifestyle | April 2019

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33

OPEN HOUSE

ARTICLE ROBIN MOYER CHUNG | PHOTOGRAPHY MINDY BRIAR

THE INCREDIBLE NEW

W E s t p o r t 34

Westport Lifestyle | April 2019

l i b r a r y 1986 WITNESSED MANY SIGNIFICANT CULTURAL EVENTS, SUCH AS PHANTOM OF THE OPERA, OPRAH, ACID-WASHED JEANS AND THE CONSTRUCTION OF THE WESTPORT LIBRARY. While Phantom and Oprah have completed their runs, our beloved library and, sadly, acid-washed jeans, have not. Instead, they have overhauled themselves to appeal to a modern eco-minded and tech-savvy clientele. At least, the library has. Acidwashed jeans look the same and still baffle me.

You probably know that WL is in the final throes of a multi-million-dollar renovation. While we await its completion in June 2019, here’s what you can expect: WOW. What’s the same? It’s in the same blueprint as the 1986 structure, and it’s still full of books. What’s different? Everything else. According to Paul Mazzaccaro, CAO, the new WL is more of a community center.

CONTINUED >

April 2019 | Westport Lifestyle

35

OPEN HOUSE

(CON TI N U ED)

Thoughtful details abound: Stonework at the entrance and tiles in the bathrooms

“[We want] to reach as many people as possible, whatever your passion is.”

Goal: achieved.

evoke the spines of shelved books. The

of items to check out other than books,

outside staircase mimics New York City’s

such as instruments, sewing machines and

hi-line, with wide surfaces for lolling about

twin rhesus monkeys. OK, no monkeys yet.

during study breaks.

But WL wants to know what you’d like, so if

If you crave a cookie or enlightenment,

you want to borrow primates or learn, say,

Do you love the earth? It’s eco-friendly,

an expanded cafe area has an oven/stove

the fine art of tattooing in the Maker Space,

using reclaimed materials from the old

unit for cooking classes, and several rooms,

give them a shout.

library and many bio-based and recycled

or program spaces, are nearby for hosting

materials on flooring and acoustic paneling.

authors/speakers

and

their

Conference rooms generously sprinkled

audiences.

throughout are available for reserved or

“I am proud of how we achieved those

There’s an A/V room to create content and

impromptu meetings, a business center

goals with this design: repurposing materi-

record podcasts that can be streamed from

contains a copier and fax machine, and the

als, sourcing green, eco-friendly new mate-

the website or—wait for it—the Jumbotron

bathrooms have the coolest faucets in the

rials and finding opportunities to promote

on the second floor!

free world.

and support recycling and efficiencies by

Hi. Are you still with me?

our patrons and staff,” says Bill Harmer,

The dramatic among you will love the

director of WL.

large stage and green room for perform-

Finally, the Children’s, Teen and Adult book sections are bigger and better in case, like, you go to the library for a book.

Even the chairs in the children’s sec-

ers. The East Program Room behind

The new WL is an enviable resource,

tion are made from 3D printers using

the stage is big enough for 120 people

well-equipped to launch Westport into

recycled materials.

and contains cameras to record events.

the next phase of education, technol-

Would you rather be outside? Walls

There’s a recording studio/video editing/

ogy and community.

were popped out and replaced with large

post-production room with state-of-the-

“We can’t predict what the library will

windows to frame gorgeous views of the

art equipment. Actually, all of equipment is

do 10 years from now. But with this func-

river and downtown. Outside lighting is

state-of-the-art.

tionality, we will always have the ability to

increased, and globe pendants on the first

The new Maker Space includes 3D print-

floor echo the exterior lamps, enhancing the

ers and, possibly, pottery and or/wood-

library’s communing with its environment.

working. A “library of things” offers all sorts

adapt,” Paul says.

If only the same could be said for acid wash.

“I AM PROUD OF HOW WE ACHIEVED THOSE GOALS WITH THIS DESIGN: REPURPOSING MATERIALS, SOURCING GREEN, ECO-FRIENDLY NEW MATERIALS AND FINDING OPPORTUNITIES TO PROMOTE AND SUPPORT RECYCLING AND EFFICIENCIES BY OUR PATRONS AND STAFF.” –BILL HARMER, DIRECTOR OF WL

36

Westport Lifestyle | April 2019

April 2019 | Westport Lifestyle

37

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Westport Lifestyle | April 2019

Westport River Gallery International Fine Art

LELIA PISSARRO | French

MONA | American

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One Riverside Ave, Westport 203.226.6934 WestportRiverGallery.com April 2019 | Westport Lifestyle

39

APRIL

LIFESTYLE CALENDAR

5

Austen sees the story and herself in a new light. Connecticut premiere, through April 14. ACTOfCT.org

ANYONE CAN BE ORGANIZED! Westport Public Library

Take this one-hour class and learn how to use technology to keep you organized. This class goes over popular organization apps like Evernote

EIGHTH ANNUAL MAKER FAIRE

23

Westport Public Library

Maker Faire is a gathering of curious people who enjoy learning

IN THE HEIGHTS

and who love sharing what they can do. From engineers and art-

Westport Country Playhouse

that will keep you organized across

Winner

Awards,

ists to scientists and crafters,

all devices. Registration is required.

including Best Musical! With an

of

four

Tony

Maker Faire is a venue for these

WestportLibrary.org

infectious score featuring a blend

"makers" to show hobbies, exper-

of hip-hop, salsa, merengue and

iments and projects. We call it the

5-14

soul, In the Heights invites audi-

Greatest Show (& Tell) on Earth, a

ences to celebrate life and love in

family-friendly showcase of inven-

CABARET

this uniquely American story. Music

tion, creativity and resourcefulness.

and lyrics by Lin-Manuel Miranda;

Westport.MakerFaire.com

Music Theatre of Connecticut

book by Quiara Alegria Hudes.

In here, life is beautiful... MTC's criti-

WestportPlayhouse.org

27

cally acclaimed re-imagined production of the Broadway smash returns by popular demand! Through April 14.

MusicTheatreOfCT.com

24

NEW VOICES AT MTC: PAGE TO STAGE

SQUIRREL NUT ZIPPERS

12

Music Theatre of Connecticut

Fairfield Theatre Company

New Voices, the professional musi-

It's not hyperbole: SNZ might be

cal theater writers group at MTC,

the most explosive, wildly enter-

presents songs and scenes from

taining and

tal-

new musicals in development. Page

Westport Public Library

ented nine-piece retro-swing band

to Stage will introduce these writ-

Are you perplexed by what people

around. They combine elements

ers and their musicals, offering a

mean online? Does the language

of gypsy jazz with honky tonk

window into the creative process.

of texting confound you? If so, this

blues with witty swing overtones

MusicTheatreOfCT.com

one-hour class is for you. We'll go

and notes of Klezmer with over-

over common internet lingo and

the-top showmanship all the while.

general everyday slang that will

FairfieldTheatre.org

ANYONE CAN USE SLANG

extraordinarily

open up a whole new world of

28

26

41ST MINUTE MAN RACE

BEEF BUTCHERY

Race held rain or shine

Custom Meats

Arrival/Check-in Time between

14

Witness the breakdown of half a

7 am – 8 am

steer by classically trained butch-

Parking:

AUSTEN’S PRIDE

ers while enjoying some food and

Parking is located in a designated

drinks. We will go through the entire

area within the gates at Compo

animal, nose to tail, explaining the

Beach or the adjacent Soundview

language!

(WL

Registration

note:

Learn

to

required. be

the

cringe-worthy parent all kids fear!)

WestportLibrary.org

ACT of Connecticut

With

40

27

a

glorious

and

Compo Beach, Soundview Drive, Westport, CT

sweeping

different methods of cutting, cook-

dirt parking lot. No beach sticker

score, Austen’s Pride springs to

ing and muscle configuration while

needed; parking is free.

life as Jane Austen transforms her

discussing what makes great meat.

rough draft into a beloved clas-

(WL note: Vegans and vegetari-

sic. As the characters from Pride and

ans may wish to avoid this event.)

Prejudice come to life around her, Jane

CustomMeatsCT.com

Westport Lifestyle | April 2019

It’s time for your

spring cleaning!

this spring Dr. Hannah Ahn is a Board Certified Pediatric Dentist Voted Fairfield County’s

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April 2019 | Westport Lifestyle

41

TREND SETTER YOU DON’T HAVE TO GO FAR TO FIND THE BEST IN GREEN DESIGN

LOC A L E A RT HF R I E N DLY F I N D S

03

ARTICLE ROBIN MOYER CHUNG

02

01

04

05

01 | Stainless Steel Straws,

04

SuxStraws.com, $20 Local

Dudley-Stephens.com, $158

designers Anne Greenberg,

Two Fairfield County sisters

Ronit

Anne

custom design style-forward

stainless

silhouettes, sustainably made

Epstein

Tarshis and created

steel SUX to reduce plastic

| Fleece Turtleneck,

from recycled yarn.

waste and create "the most versatile, sustainable, reus-

05

|

Brooklyn

able, zero-waste luxe prod-

Jacket, Noorism.com, $550

uct on the market."

Westport

native

Bridge and

FIT

graduate Noor Bchala creates 0 2 | Yumi Art + Amore

unique and coveted designs,

6-piece Stackable Bowls,

handmade in small batches

YumiEcoStore.com,

from up-cycled denim.

$99.95 Westport

07

resident

Virgina P’an founded Yumi

06 | Handmade Flexible Gold

EcoSolutions

“a

Cuff, FayeKim.com, $36,000

cleaner,

to

healthier

build

world…

Award-winning jewelry designer

plant-based alternatives to

Faye Kim’s 18K gold designs

keep pollutants out of land-

feature recycled gold (don’t

fills, oceans and skies.”

worry, she has beautiful items for far less green.)

03 | Steady Day Dreaming T, BeauSoleilShop.com,

06

42

Westport Lifestyle | April 2019

$75

07

|

JacobOlmedo.com

For her local fashion line,

Olmedo’s innovative and oddly

Anne Epstein focuses on sus-

beautiful pieces are made

tainability, fair trade and labor,

with biodegradable materials.

offering consumers environ-

They cannot be washed, but

mentally responsible clothing

Olmedo replaces the lining

and accessories.

when necessary.