Westport, CT June 2024

LIFE + CULTURE

FATHER'S DAY FINDS

MORE LOCAL BANDS WE LOVE

Six Years of Westport Lifestyle!

Dear Readers,

As we embark on the June issue of Westport Lifestyle Magazine, we're not just welcoming the warmth of summer; we're also celebrating a significant milestone—our six-year anniversary. Time has flown by, filled with incredible stories from our community that have made these past six years truly remarkable.

We owe a heartfelt thank you to all of you—our readers, advertising partners, our amazing team and friends—for your unwavering support. Your enthusiasm and engagement have been the driving force behind our magazine, and we are grateful for every moment of this journey.

This month, we turn our spotlight to the men in our community. Just as we celebrated the remarkable women of Westport last month, we now take a moment to appreciate the outstanding men who contribute so much to our town. From exploring new fitness trends to sitting down with local entrepreneur Jay Norris, we dig into the diverse interests and talents of the men who call Westport home.

Our cover story features The Bacon Brothers, Kevin and Michael Bacon, who have captivated audiences with their music for decades. In July, they will be gracing the stage at the Westport Country Playhouse, and we couldn't be more excited to share their story with you.

Additionally, we are showcasing this season's trends in men's jewelry with Lux Bond & Green, and we offer a glimpse into the vibrant community at Autostrada, where classic cars and camaraderie reign supreme.

In honor of Father's Day, we're sharing suggestions from Discover Westport CT. And to prepare you for Father's Day feasts, we feature two amazing local male chefs. We catch up with Chef Brian Lewis as he launches a new pop-up dining concept, adding yet another layer of culinary excellence to our town. Additionally, we highlight 29 Markle, which is hosting a beautiful dinner to celebrate the community in Bridgeport this month.

We also sat down with amazing local bands, spotlighting the incredible musical talents of our friends and family who pursue their passion for music alongside their everyday lives.

Thank you for being a part of our Westport Lifestyle family for the past six years. Your support means everything to us, and we look forward to sharing many more stories and adventures with you in the years to come.

Hope to see you around town,

MARISA MACLEAN, PUBLISHER

June 2024

PUBLISHER

Marisa MacLean | marisa.maclean@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Sara Gaynes Levy | sara.gayneslevy@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Lauren Brown West-Rosenthal, Discover Westport CT, Meredith Guinness, Sara Gaynes Levy

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Jacob Blinkenstaff, John Videler, EPG Creative

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Rachel Chrisman

LAYOUT DESIGNER Rhiannon Coffman

WEDDING INVITATIONS & GIFT REGISTRY

TABLE DECOR • FLATWARE • LINENS • CANDLES • SILVER • CRYSTAL • INVITATIONS • STATIONERY

Jewels For Him Men's

The Bacon Brothers Take the Stage

Catching

Where the Cars Are Stars

Autostrada

Jacob Blinkenstaff

TIME TO GET IN THE DRIVER'S SEAT WITH A NEW GARAGE

Rev-up

It’s time to rev-up your garage with a custom design by Closet Factory. Turn your ordinary garage into a man cave celebration. Call (203) 616-5847 for a free in-home or virtual design consultation and estimate. Visit us online at closetfactory.com.

Showroom 100 Wooster St., Bethel, CT 06801

Showroom 110 Post Road, Darien, CT 06820

1:

4:

6:

city scene

The 4th annual Fashionably Westport: Sonya Harris-Jagenberg, Randi Shapiro Lehrman, Jill Halper, and Hema Singh-Bansak. 2: Hannah Spencer, Imke Lowes, Sharon Zion, Milana Bartolotta, Dianne Crowley, and Marisa MacLean. 3: Kate van Rijckevorsel, Alexandra Rahmani, and Rissa Koritzinsky.

Jennifer Tooker, Terry Dunn, Andrea Moore, Lauren Bromberg, and Andrew Colabella. 5: Annette Norton and Danielle Dobin backstage.

Brooke Kalynn, Amanda Mas Dorin, and Jennifer Territo of Rebel & Rose Tattoo. 7: Benjamin Lagasse of Salon Dada with the Salon Dada team.

Photography by John Videler

EXECUTIVE ASSISTANTS PERSONAL ASSISTANTS ESTATE AND HOUSEHOLD MANAGERS CHIEFS OF CHEFS PERSONAL DRIVERS HOUSEKEEPERS NANNIES / GOVERNESSES DOMESTIC ASSISTANTS BUTLERS FEURS DRIVERS ESTATE AND HOUSEHOLD MANAGERS MULTI-PROPERTY MANAGERS FAMILY ASSISTANTS

ASSISTANTS PRIVATE CHEFS HOUSEHOLD MANAGERS HOUSEKEEPERS HOUSEMAN NANNIES / MANNIES

ASSISTANTS PERSONAL SECURITY BODY GUARDS EXECUTIVE ASSISTANTS PERSONAL ASSISTANTS

HOUSEHOLD MANAGERS CHIEFS OF STAFF PERSONAL CHEFS PERSONAL DRIVERS HOUSEKEEPERS

SISTANTS PERSONAL ASSISTANTS ESTATE AND HOUSEHOLD MANAGERS CHIEFS OF STAFF PERSONAL NIES EXECUTIVE ASSISTANTS PERSONAL ASSISTANTS ESTATE AND HOUSEHOLD MANAGERS CHIEFS

SONAL CHEFS PERSONAL DRIVERS HOUSEKEEPERS NANNIES / GOVERNESSES DOMESTIC ASSISTANTS

CHAUFFEURS DRIVERS ESTATE AND HOUSEHOLD MANAGERS MULTI-PROPERTY MANAGERS FAMILY EXECUTIVE ASSISTANTS PRIVATE CHEFS HOUSEHOLD MANAGERS HOUSEKEEPERS HOUSEMAN NANNIES PERSONAL ASSISTANTS PERSONAL SECURITY BODY GUARDS EXECUTIVE ASSISTANTS PERSONAL ESTATE AND HOUSEHOLD MANAGERS CHIEFS OF STAFF PERSONAL CHEFS PERSONAL DRIVERS HOUSEKEEPERS EXECUTIVE ASSISTANTS PERSONAL ASSISTANTS ESTATE AND HOUSEHOLD MANAGERS CHIEFS OF CHEFS NANNIESEXECUTIVE ASSISTANTS PERSONAL ASSISTANTS ESTATE AND HOUSEHOLD MANAGERS STAFF PERSONAL CHEFS PERSONAL DRIVERS HOUSEKEEPERS NANNIES / GOVERNESSES DOMESTIC BUTLERS CHAUFFEURS DRIVERS ESTATE AND HOUSEHOLD MANAGERS MULTI-PROPERTY MANAGERS TANTS EXECUTIVE ASSISTANTS PRIVATE CHEFS HOUSEHOLD MANAGERS HOUSEKEEPERS HOUSEMAN MANNIES PERSONAL ASSISTANTS PERSONAL SECURITY BODY GUARDS EXECUTIVE ASSISTANTS PERSONAL TANTS ESTATE AND HOUSEHOLD MANAGERS CHIEFS OF STAFF PERSONAL CHEFS PERSONAL DRIVERS ERS EXECUTIVE ASSISTANTS PERSONAL ASSISTANTS ESTATE AND HOUSEHOLD MANAGERS CHIEFS SONAL CHEFS NANNIES EXECUTIVE ASSISTANTS PERSONAL ASSISTANTS ESTATE AND HOUSEHOLD CHIEFS OF STAFF PERSONAL CHEFS PERSONAL DRIVERS HOUSEKEEPERS NANNIES / GOVERNESSES ASSISTANTS BUTLERS CHAUFFEURS DRIVERS ESTATE AND HOUSEHOLD MANAGERS MULTI-PROPERTY FAMILY ASSISTANTS EXECUTIVE ASSISTANTS PRIVATE CHEFS HOUSEHOLD MANAGERS HOUSEKEEPERS NANNIES / MANNIES PERSONAL ASSISTANTS PERSONAL SECURITY BODY GUARDS EXECUTIVE ASSISTANTS AL ASSISTANTS ESTATE AND HOUSEHOLD MANAGERS CHIEFS OF STAFF PERSONAL CHEFS PERSONAL HOUSEKEEPERS EXECUTIVE ASSISTANTS PERSONAL ASSISTANTS ESTATE AND HOUSEHOLD MANAGERS STAFF PERSONAL CHEFS NANNIES EXECUTIVE ASSISTANTS PERSONAL ASSISTANTS ESTATE AND AGERS CHIEFS OF STAFF PERSONAL CHEFS PERSONAL DRIVERS HOUSEKEEPERS NANNIES / GOVERNESSES

TIC ASSISTANTS BUTLERS CHAUFFEURS DRIVERS ESTATE AND HOUSEHOLD MANAGERS MULTI-PROPERTY

ERS FAMILY ASSISTANTS EXECUTIVE ASSISTANTS PRIVATE CHEFS HOUSEHOLD MANAGERS HOUSEKEEPERS

MAN NANNIES / MANNIES PERSONAL ASSISTANTS PERSONAL SECURITY BODY GUARDS EXECUTIVE PERSONAL ASSISTANTS ESTATE AND HOUSEHOLD MANAGERS CHIEFS OF STAFF PERSONAL CHEFS

ERS HOUSEKEEPERS EXECUTIVE ASSISTANTS PERSONAL ASSISTANTS ESTATE AND HOUSEHOLD OF STAFF PERSONAL CHEFS NANNIESEXECUTIVE ASSISTANTS PERSONAL ASSISTANTS ESTATE AND MANAGERS CHIEFS OF STAFF PERSONAL CHEFS PERSONAL DRIVERS HOUSEKEEPERS NANNIES / DOMESTIC ASSISTANTS BUTLERS CHAUFFEURS DRIVERS ESTATE AND HOUSEHOLD MANAGERS MULTI-PROPERTY MANAGERS FAMILY ASSISTANTS EXECUTIVE ASSISTANTS PRIVATE CHEFS HOUSEHOLD MANAGERS HOUSEMAN NANNIES / MANNIES PERSONAL ASSISTANTS PERSONAL SECURITY BODY GUARDS EXECUTIVE TANTS PERSONAL ASSISTANTS ESTATE AND HOUSEHOLD MANAGERS CHIEFS OF STAFF PERSONAL AL DRIVERS HOUSEKEEPERS EXECUTIVE ASSISTANTS PERSONAL ASSISTANTS ESTATE AND HOUSEHOLD CHIEFS OF STAFF PERSONAL CHEFS NANNIES EXECUTIVE ASSISTANTS PERSONAL ASSISTANTS ESTATE HOLD MANAGERS CHIEFS OF STAFF PERSONAL CHEFS PERSONAL DRIVERS HOUSEKEEPERS NANNIES ESSES DOMESTIC ASSISTANTS BUTLERS CHAUFFEURS DRIVERS ESTATE AND HOUSEHOLD MANAGERS ERTY MANAGERS FAMILY ASSISTANTS EXECUTIVE ASSISTANTS PRIVATE CHEFS HOUSEHOLD MANAGERS KEEPERS HOUSEMAN NANNIES / MANNIES PERSONAL ASSISTANTS PERSONAL SECURITY BODY GUARDS ASSISTANTS PERSONAL ASSISTANTS ESTATE AND HOUSEHOLD MANAGERS CHIEFS OF STAFF PERSONAL PERSONAL DRIVERS HOUSEKEEPERS EXECUTIVE ASSISTANTS PERSONAL ASSISTANTS ESTATE AND MANAGERS CHIEFS OF STAFF PERSONAL CHEFS NANNIES EXECUTIVE ASSISTANTS PERSONAL ASSISTANTS AND HOUSEHOLD MANAGERS CHIEFS OF STAFF PERSONAL CHEFS PERSONAL DRIVERS HOUSEKEEPERS GOVERNESSES DOMESTIC ASSISTANTS BUTLERS CHAUFFEURS DRIVERS ESTATE AND HOUSEHOLD MULTI-PROPERTY MANAGERS FAMILY ASSISTANTS EXECUTIVE ASSISTANTS PRIVATE CHEFS HOUSEHOLD HOUSEKEEPERS HOUSEMAN NANNIES / MANNIES PERSONAL

8: The Westport Garden Club's 100th anniversary party: Joanne Heller and Kathy Oberman Tracy. 9: Lori Meinke, Ellen Greenberg, Ginger Donaher, Megan Lott, Joni Andrews, Chris Lorusso, Kelle Ruden, and Louise Demakis. 10: Federated Garden Clubs of CT President Karin Pyskaty and Kara McKenna Wong. 11: Joni Andrews and Elise Meyer. 12: Dorothy Rolla, Paddy Deucy, Anne Lester, Jillian Klaff, Louise Demakis, and Megan Lott. 13: Lori Meinke and Ann Pawlick. 14: President Megan Lott at the the 100th anniversary party at Gabriele's.

Photography by Westport Garden Club

Justin Paul,

and Beckwith

15: The grand opening party of Alina's Cakes and Cookies in Westport. 16: Russel Dancho, Alina Dancho, and Paul Minhai. 17: Helen and Malcolm Clarke. 18: Justin Paul (Staples ‘03) visits his alma mater Staples High School. 19: With the cast of James and the Giant Peach. Justin co-wrote the music and lyrics. 20: Yusef Abdallah, Josy Pitaro, Finley Chevrier, Samantha Edwards,

Matthew Bukzin,

Fipp. 21: Elyse Oleksak at the launch of her book, A Shark Ate My Bagel.

JOSH BERNSTEIN

JOSH BERNSTEIN

JOSH BERNSTEIN

KERRY LONG

KERRY LONG

KERRY LONG

JESSICA KING

22: Erica Plotkin, Elyse Oleksak, and Jessica King. 23: Megan Rutstein, Elyse Oleksak, Melissa Post, and Lindsay Czarniak. 24: Conlon Amendola grand opening: Andy Eliot, Peter Bryniczka, Sue Georgiades, and Lauren Healy. 25: Howard Graber, Ami Jayne Powers, Kevin Collins, and Deena Graber. 26: Deborah Noonan, Nancy Aldrich, and John Aldrich. 27: Don Loke, Jennifer Collier, Eileen Baird, and Teryl Loke. 28: Jennifer Collier, Janine Kelly, Jacquelyn Conlon, Bonnie Amendola, Beth Child, and Jamie Caplinger.

JESSICA KING

MEGAN RUTSTEIN

JOSH BERNSTEIN

JOSH BERNSTEIN

JOSH BERNSTEIN

JOSH BERNSTEIN

JOSH BERNSTEIN

Information is Power!

Are you considering purchasing a new home, or do you plan to stay in your current one primarily because you believe your mortgage rate is too low to give up? Decide wisely. Let me provide you with an annual budget spreadsheet linked to a mortgage amortization schedule to help determine your monthly affordability and yearly house expenses. There may be other significant expenses associated with homeownership that you haven’t considered until you do all the math. Call me and I’ll utilize my budgeting tool to help you make the most informed financial decision!

ROUNDUP OF NEWS FROM LOCAL BUSINESSES

Birchwood Country Club Welcomes New Head Golf Pro

Birchwood Country Club has a new head golf pro, Wendy Modic. Her impressive resume includes being named Metropolitan PGA Women’s Player of the Year four times and the 2020 Met PGA’s Women’s Championship, as well as being featured by  Golf Digest's Best Teachers in Every State. For more info, visit birchwoodcc.org

Photography by Marc Karetsky

Hearts In Harmony Foundation Hosts Shake It For Shea

Westport parents Mark and Kira Greenfield founded the Hearts In Harmony Foundation after their daughter, Shea, was born with Long QT Syndrome, a rare, life-altering heart condition. Their Shake It For Shea gala raises funds for the lab of Dr. Michael Ackerman at the Mayo Clinic, a researcher specializing in Long QT.  Thursday, June 6, from 7:30 to 11:30 p.m. at The Warehouse at FTC, 70 Sanford Street, Fairfield. Tickets start at $200, at  givebutter.com/ShakeForShea2024

PopUp Bagels Expands to Newtown

Westport's beloved PopUp Bagels— you know the ones that are "not famous, but known"— have popped up in yet another Connecticut town, opening at 266-274 South Main Street in Newtown.  "We are thrilled to open our doors to the Newtown community and share our passion for fresh, flavorful bagels," said Adam Goldberg, the founder. For more locations, visit popupbagels.com

Photography by John Voket

Photography by Fred Marcus Photography

Jason Powell is a nationally respected marriage and relationship therapist who has provided communication, connection, and intimacy insights with leading media outlets such as Forbes and The Knot. He has helped countless couples and marriages to find renewed connection in the most challenging and desperate seasons of their relationship. From a recently revealed or discovered affair, to communication which has become an endless cycle of frustration and loneliness, he can help with both compassion and skill.

17 Bridge Square, Westport, CT || (203) 660-3330

Get Kerri Rosenthal's Work on Stretched Canvas

This spring, beloved local artist Kerri Rosenthal expanded her stretched canvas offerings to include all of her artwork. The artwork is digitally printed on high quality canvas and hand stretched by artisans. Prices for stretched canvas prints start at $850 for a 20” x 20” or 18” x 24”, and the back is wired to hang anywhere in your home. For more information visit Kerri Rosenthal at 181 Main Street or kerrirosenthal.com

Bloom Salon’s Nikki Stanek Wins Two Invisible Bead Extensions Awards

Nikki Stanek, co-owner of Bloom Salon, received two awards at the Invisible Bead Extensions Awards: one for “Best Grow-Out” and one for “Best Reel.” Invisible Bead Extensions is a worldwide hair extension education brand, and their awards honor their best salons and stylists.

Le Rouge Chocolates by Aarti Gets Major Recognition

Local favorite Le Rouge Chocolates by Aarti has been honored with the title of one of Mashed's "the absolute best chocolate cakes in America," for their Kentucky Bourbon Chocolate Ganache Cake. Not only that, owner Aarti Khosla was also honored as a female leader in Southwestern Connecticut by Congressman Jim Himes. 190 Main Street; 203-293-6106, lerougebyaarti.com

Photography Aarti Khosla

Now Open in New Canaan

Connecticut Breast Imaging is pleased to announce the opening of its newest location in New Canaan at 23 Vitti Street, Suite 100.

Come meet our team of highly regarded breast imagers led by Madhavi Raghu, MD. Dr. Raghu was the Director of the Breast Imaging Fellowship Program at Yale. Her team includes Jaime Szarmach, MD, Gilda Boroumand, MD, Seema Bakhru, MD, Anna Mah, MD, Todd Everett, MD, and Puja Sharma, MD who all trained at prestigious academic medical centers.

We are excited to offer concierge breast imaging services and quick turnaround time for results at our state-of-the-art facility in New Canaan. Most insurances are accepted because everyone should have access to quality breast healthcare.

To schedule an appointment or learn more about the team at Connecticut Breast Imaging, please call 203.791.9011, or visit our website at ctbreastimaging.org.

FOR HIM JEWELS

A Father's Day Gift Guide From Lux Bond & Green Jewelers

ARTICLE BY SARA GAYNES LEVY

Jewelry pictured: William Henry Frost Line Pearl Chain Necklace, $695.

THE LOOK: PEARLS

(A portion of all proceeds will be donated to The Garvan Institute of Medical Research, in collaboration with Paspaley, as part of Lux Bond & Green’s 125 Acts of Kindness Initiative.)

Men’s accessories are having a major moment. Just ask Charlie Green, the director of stores at Lux Bond & Green Jewelers. “Cuban link bracelets, signet rings, and luxury pocket knives from William Henry are trending for men,” he says. “Additionally, pearls have transitioned from high fashion on red carpets to everyday wear.” (And have been spotted on stars like Simu Liu and Barry Keoghan.) Get inspired with some of these gorgeous takes on the trends from their stores.

Jewelry pictured: Paspaley Kimberley Golden Dusk Dark Sandalwood, Onyx, and South Sea Pearl Bracelet, $2700.

Jewelry pictured: Lux Bond & Green CEO John Green wearing a Paspaley Custom Lavalier Lapel Pin, $6,000 (by special order).

THE LOOK: CUBAN LINK

Jewelry pictured: Gold Cuban Link Necklace $6,295.

Cuban link bracelets and necklaces are a perfect starting place for men who may be newer to jewelry. “These accessories effortlessly blend the old with the new, offering a nod to tradition while embracing modernity,” says Charlie Green.

TIMELESS

Jewelry pictured: Sterling Silver Cuban Link Bracelet, $325.

Jewelry pictured: Sterling Silver & Black Rhodium Cuban Link Bracelet, $260.

These are instant heirlooms— they’ll be in the family for generations. Make a signet ring your own with custom engraving, now available at Lux Bond & Green locations in Westport and West Hartford.

THE LOOK: SIGNET RINGS & POCKET KNIVES

LUX BOND & GREEN

Westport: 136 Main Street, Westport, CT 06880

Glastonbury: 170 Glastonbury Blvd Somerset Square, Glastonbury, CT 06033

Mohegan Sun: One Mohegan Blvd. Shops at Mohegan Sun, Uncasville, CT 06382

Jewelry pictured: Gold Signet Ring, $2,475 (custom engraving available).

Item pictured: William Henry Apple Coral Glow Pocketknife, $875.

HOME IS SO MUCH MORE THAN A HOUSE

Home is where stories unfold and laughter fills the air, where we celebrate life’s triumphs and share family gatherings. Home is where our true selves flourish in comfort and peace.

We understand the profound significance of home in people’s lives. That’s why our approach is centered on the human experience, ensuring that every client finds not just a house, but a true sanctuary they can call home.

Whether you are selling or purchasing, expect an exceptional experience from Cindy Raney & Team.

• Concussion

Garden City Location 901 Stewart Ave. Suite 212 Garden City NY, 11530 516-726-9884 kidsconcuss@gmail.com

Westport Location 127 Kings Hwy North Westport CT. 06880 203-936-6805 kidsconcuss@gmail.com

Dr. Audrey Paul MD PHD

A Dinner to Remember

BRIDGEPORT'S 29 MARKLE IS HOSTING A CAN'T-MISS EVENING THIS MONTH.

ARTICLE BY SARA GAYNES LEVY | PHOTOGRAPHY BY MEAGAN OLSON

29 Markle, Bridgeport’s upscale New American restaurant helmed by Chef Damon Daye Sawyer, has made an indelible mark on the downtown Bridgeport scene. On Saturday, June 8, in celebration and support of the revitalization of downtown Bridgeport, Chef Damon— along with partners CT Bites, Cultural Alliance of Fairfield County, Colorful Bridgeport, The Bridgeport Arts Alliance, and BPT Creates— are hosting the “Dinner on Markle,” a

The 29 Markle team.

plated four-course dinner that will feature music, art, dancing, raffles, an open bar, and Chef Damon’s incredible food, plus a portion of ticket sales will support organizations active in leadership, philanthropy, education and the arts in Bridgeport. Westport Lifestyle spoke to Chef Damon about this sure-to-be special evening (pro tip: if you get tickets, the dress code is pastels).

WESTPORT LIFESTYLE: HOW DID THE IDEA FOR THIS DINNER COME ABOUT?

Chef Damon Sawyer: As a restaurant, we’ve always wanted to do something that would help further galvanize the neighborhood. We also wanted to find a way to give back to the community for all the support we’ve received since opening 29 Markle Ct.

WL: WHAT CAN FOLKS EXPECT FROM THE EVENING ITSELF?

DS: Music, art, great food, and great energy. And of course plenty of love. Attendees should come ready to network.

WL: WHAT DO YOU WANT PEOPLE TO TAKE AWAY FROM THE NIGHT?

DS: We want people to feel prideful about the community they live, work, and do business in. We want people to feel inspired and be more involved in the community.

WL: WHAT ARE YOU MOST LOOKING FORWARD TO ABOUT THE EVENT?

DS: Cooking, and of course, the wine!

Tickets to Dinner on Markle start at $165, @ 29marklectbpt for ticket info

"We wanted to find a way to give back to the community."

Chef Damon at 29 Markle.

JACQUELYN CONLON

BONNIE AMENDOLA

JANINE KELLY

THREE DECADES OF EXCELLENCE

Over the past 30 years, Speedsport Tuning has grown from a small Porsche specialty shop to a full service, independent company serving Porsche street, competition and vintage enthusiasts nationwide.

Our vintage department is globally recognized for its expertise and skill, developed over decades of working on some of the world’s most coveted Porsches. Utilizing specialized tools and a watchmaker’s precision, our vintage technicians deliver the care discerning owners can trust, even on the rarest of Porsches.

Track enthusiasts at every experience level benefit from the

uncompromising excellence of our competition department. Speedsport Tuning’s skilled preparation and support services have helped our clients achieve hundreds of podiums and countless championships.

For modern street Porsches, we’ve been the trusted resource for those seeking an alternative to the dealer service department. Our factory trained technicians can even care for your Taycan.

We understand the passions that drive Porschephiles are as diverse as the cars themselves. No matter which Porsche you drive, or how you drive it, we’ve got your back.

Four new, must-try fitness spots in town.

Break

A Sweat

Working out just got a lot more fun: a smattering of new fitness studios have opened in Westport recently, offering highend, customized, and boutique classes and programming. Whether you’re looking for strength training, cardio, barre, or just an all around great sweat, these new spots are here for endorphin-boosting-bursts.

ARTICLE BY SARA GAYNES LEVY

Countdown Fitness

This personal-training-only studio, founded by Anel Dzafic, opened in March, though his Greenwich location has been kicking butts since 2015. The name comes from Anel’s technique, where he “counts down” to total muscle burnout. “Because we lift weights slowly and mindfully, we minimize the risk of injury,” he says. “We're able to squeeze a full week of strength training into a 30-minute session.” (Yes, that’s right—once a week, just 30 minutes!) The dark, moody studio makes you feel like an absolute bada**. “I love how efficient and effective the workout is,” says Anel. “We make meaningful changes to people’s strength.”

25 Sylvan Road South | countdownfit.com

There are 300 BFT (that stands for Body Fit Training) studios worldwide, but the Westport location opened in December of last year. The boutique studio specializes in group fitness, offering 14 class types, from strength to cardio to boxing. But they have one thing in common: the classes are part of a program, designed to build on each other and progress your fitness. There’s a strong emphasis on teamwork, but the workouts are open to anyone. “The workouts are always different, and you will walk away having learned something new to make your next workout better,” says co-owner Gama Blanco.

403 Post Road E | bodyfittraining.com

Photo by Xponential Fitness/ Body Fit Training (BFT).

Photo by Julia D'Agostino.

Forme Barre

The ballet-inspired workouts at this boutique studio are ever-changing, so no two classes are alike, says owner Tyler Ingram, a retired ballet dancer. “Forme Barre produces a lithe, lean, and well-defined physique, in the mold of a classical ballet dancer,” he says. The studio, which also has locations in Greenwich, New Canaan, and Nantucket, opened last September. In addition to in-person classes in their warm, inviting studio, they’ve got classes online, which you can watch on-demand or live. While the expert programming and experienced teachers evoke a top-notch ballet academy, Tyler stresses that Forme Barre is for everyone.

580 Post Road E | formebarre.com

Recess Performance Club

“This is much more than a workout,” says founder Eric Johnson of his brand-new 3,000 sq.-ft. fitness mecca. Membership includes access not only to Eric’s expert group, semi-private, or private training (his clients include Scarlett Johansson and Charlie Puth!) but his recovery tools, too, like an infrared sauna, red light therapy, and cold plunge. The expertise and energy in Eric’s workouts is unmatched. “A group pouring their hearts and sweat into a challenging workout and knowing they have embraced becoming comfortable in the uncomfortable keeps my fire going to be the best coach I can be,” says Eric.

276 Post Road East | recess.fit

Photo by Julia D'Agostino.

Eric Johnson. Photo by Kevin Sikorski.

ONE OF WESTPORT'S BUSIEST RESIDENTS UPDATES US ON (SOME OF!) HIS MANY PROJECTS.

Spotlight On:

Jay Norris

ARTICLE BY SARA GAYNES LEVY

Jay Norris, center, at a Westport 10 event.

Jay Norris has to be one of the busiest guys in town. He’s the founder and CEO of Guesst software, a retail sales intelligence platform, and the co-founder of BlackLight, the world’s first search engine for Black-owned businesses. He’s also a co-founder of StartUp Westport, an initiative to engage and build Westport’s tech community, a co-founder of the Westport 10, the social and networking organization for Black men and their families, a mentor with A Better Chance Westport (and recent host of their Dream Event), and he was just named a co-chair of the Manhattan Chamber of Commerce. Plus he's on the board of trustees for the Westport Library and on the board of the Westport Weston Family YMCA. (This isn’t even an exhaustive list of all of Jay’s gigs— and he’s a husband and dad of two!)

There’s a common thread through all of Jay’s roles, though: community. “I love to connect people, networks, and communities, ” he tells Westport Lifestyle. We recently sat down with Jay to have him walk us through the many (many!) things on his plate.

CONTINUED >

StartUp Westport Summer Jam: Peter Propp, Cliff Sirlin, Jay Norris, Jennifer Tooker, Sam Hendel, Chief Foti, and Dan Bikel

WESTPORT LIFESTYLE: STARTUP WESTPORT RECENTLY CELEBRATED ITS FIRST ANNIVERSARY. WHAT ARE SOME OF THE THINGS YOU’RE MOST PROUD OF FROM THE FIRST YEAR?

Jay Norris: So many of the events— we had Dan O’Keefe, the first Chief Innovation Officer in the state of Connecticut. And our Diverse Entrepreneur event—to be able to recognize diverse entrepreneurs with successful ventures and tell their stories is a personal calling or purpose to me. It started with four or five of us, and now it’s 1200. Being able to inspire up-and-coming entrepreneurs is the core of what we're trying to do. Essentially, StartUp Westport is the new Silicon Valley East, between NYC and Boston.

WL: STARTUP WESTPORT ALSO JUST GAVE OUT ITS INAUGURAL GLOBAL INNOVATOR OF THE YEAR AWARD, TO JIMMY PITARO, THE CHAIRMAN OF ESPN. HOW DID YOU DECIDE TO LAUNCH THIS AWARD?

JN: We realized it was time for us to do something that set the bar for StartUp Westport. This is our version of the Oscars, or the World Cup. The beautiful thing is, Westport has so much global talent. We’ve got Global Innovators of the Year for years to come.

Craig Melvin and Jay Norris at a Westport 10 event.

At the Manhattan Chamber of Commerce.

WL: WHAT’S HAPPENING WITH STARTUP WESTPORT IN YEAR TWO?

JN: The next step is to have mentor-mentee relationships, to help new businesses craft their ideas and infrastructure. And then phase two is tracking the relationship between the mentors and mentees with KPIs [key performance indicators] to see if they've hit certain performance metrics, so they’re growing.

WL: YOU’RE ALSO A MENTOR WITH A BETTER CHANCE WESTPORT [A NONPROFIT THAT PROVIDES EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES TO YOUNG MEN OF COLOR], AND HOSTED THEIR ANNUAL DREAM EVENT FUNDRAISER. WHAT IS IT LIKE WORKING WITH THEM?

JN: These young scholars have worked really hard, and I’ve gotten some of the guys in the Westport 10 involved, because many of the scholars didn’t have anyone who looked like them as a mentor. [Being at the Dream Event] was so exciting, because not only are these young men going off into the world, but they're able to keep these mentors throughout their lifelong journey. We’re the scholars' extended family.

WL: SPEAKING OF THE WESTPORT 10, HOW HAS THE GROUP EVOLVED SINCE IT STARTED FOUR YEARS AGO?

JN: We have about 69 members now. And it’s really become a place where we can share ideas, culture, and what’s going on locally. I would like people to be heard. I want people to feel comfortable. I don't want them to feel like they can't share their ideas and beliefs. Some of these guys didn’t have this outlet before– but we all feel comfortable sharing with the “10” (even though there are 69 of us!).

WL: TELL US ABOUT YOUR NEW ROLE AT THE MANHATTAN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE. WHAT ARE YOUR GOALS?

JN: I’ve been thinking about DEI [diversity, equity, and inclusion], and what we could do if we rebranded it as diversity, equity, and innovation . Innovation is something we all want, and that’s what I’m getting into at the Manhattan Chamber of Commerce.  BlackLight is a great example—where diversity meets innovation, to me, it is how we’ll really make a difference in regards to the social and economic disparities in all businesses.

Jay and his wife, Crystal, at the ABC Dream Event in 2023.

CALIFORNIA-MEDITERRANEAN FUSION

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The Bacon Brothers take the stage

ARTICLE BY SARA GAYNES LEVY PHOTOGRAPHY BY JACOB BLINKENSTAFF

Catching up with Kevin and Michael, who play the Westport Country Playhouse next month.

Officially, The Bacon Brothers have been making music for 27 years. They’ve put out 12 studio albums, the latest of which, Ballad of the Brothers, was released on April 19. But their musical history goes back much further than that. “From the time Kevin could bang on a pot, we were playing music together,” Michael, an Emmyaward winning composer who plays guitar, cello, and sings for the band, tells Westport Lifestyle. As legend has it, back in 1995, a friend asked the brothers— the only sons in their family of six kids— to perform together at a charity event. They called themselves The Bacon Brothers and were soon writing songs and recording albums together. “I have a lot of gratitude that my brother was around to encourage me musically,” says Kevin, who sings as well as plays guitar and percussion. “I like to make things— movies, songs, drawings. He was the one who said ‘You can really do this.’”  And nearly three decades later, they still are doing it. “I don’t feel any different about it now than I did back then,” says Michael. “It’s just something that I love to do.”

CONTINUED >

The Bacon Brothers will be at the Westport Country Playhouse on July 25, bringing fans into the world of their latest record, Ballad of the Brothers. Making this album was a quintessential Bacon Brothers experience, in that it’s an eclectic blend of styles, sounds, and processes. (One example: they call their genre “forosoco,” because it’s a fusion of folk, rock, soul, and country.) “Sometimes we get an idea that we just start passing around. Sometimes Michael will take a piece of score that he’s been working on and add lyrics to it,” says Kevin of their songwriting process. “It’s a lot of randomness based on how busy we both are,” Michael agrees. “And then as we’re writing, we’re imagining how it might be to play it for our wives, and then the band members, and finally the audience.” It shouldn’t be a surprise that the listening experience is at the heart of what The Bacon Brothers do— both are born storytellers, whether that’s through acting or composing a score. “We’re really a songwriting band,” says Michael. “We’re not the greatest singers in the world, we’re not the greatest players in the world, but the songs— that’s our oxygen.”

This album is full of great ones, too: the title track, “Ballad of the Brothers (The Willie Door)” is Michael’s Faustian, Texas-fied take on “The Devil Went Down to Georgia;” “We Belong” is a cover of the 1984 Pat Benatar song that Kevin says he’s wanted to take on “for years;” and they worked with Kevin’s son, Travis, on the song “Take Off This Tattoo.” “Michael and I wrote the song with a couple of writers from Nashville—I don’t know if I’d necessarily call it straight-up country, but I thought we could give it an edgier vibe,” says Kevin. Travis was the perfect choice for that (he fronts the industrial metal band Contracult Collective). “I love working with him,” says Kevin. “I’ve cut vocals with him quite a bit, and it’s a funny situation where he’s saying, hey, you gotta do another pass, Dad. You haven’t quite hit it yet.”

Michael’s son also works with his dad and uncle, arranging tour logistics. “It’s very much a family endeavor,” says Michael, who adds that Kevin’s wife, Emmy-award winner Kyra Sedgwick, does background work with them, too. “Kevin and I, if nothing else, we are family men,” says Michael. “It’s a great feeling that our offspring are involved.”

It might be surprising that an A-list actor and an Emmy-award winning composer made the time to embark on a tour in support of their childhood love of playing music together. “It’s not like we have a hit!” Kevin jokes. But they do it because they love bringing their music to others. “The number one thing is that we put on a really, really entertaining show,” says Michael. “We have a lot of respect for what it takes for someone to come to our shows— and if they go out to dinner and they get a babysitter, that’s a lot!” And as much as they hope the audience enjoys the show, they get a thrill out of live performances, too. “To look out and see somebody actually singing along with something that you created? That’s a pretty great thing,” says Kevin.

Photo by Vanessa Sundra.

Photo by Leslie Berg.

Photo by Leslie Berg.

Autostrada provides sleek event space for vintage vehicles and the drivers who adore them.

ARTICLE BY MEREDITH GUINNESS

Where the Cars Are Stars

The signature showroom at Autostrada.

Ronni Molinari sees the gleaming white floors at Autostrada in Westport as awash with possibilities. “The white floor is the canvas,” said the architect, who owns the venue with her husband Gioel, “and the cars are the artwork.”

And not just any cars: Lifts along the back wall in the 10,000-square-foot space—once home to a Steinway piano showroom—allow 20 lovingly restored beauties to catch the spotlight for fans who drive from across Fairfield County to bask in their presence. Rare Porsches and Alfa Romeos provide a vibrant backdrop as guests stroll through the facility.

Opened in January 2022 as a storage space for vintage and classic cars, the showroom has evolved into a boutique automotive club and event venue for everything from cocktail parties to corporate events. With its signature floor, giant windows and chic interior spaces, it’s becoming a prime locale for car enthusiasts to host special morning team meetings, milestone family birthday parties, or nonprofit fundraisers for up to 120 guests.

Named for Italy’s iconic network of motorways, Autostrada reminds Gioel of happy weekend afternoons tinkering on his father’s classic car in their Italian hometown. It’s a bond he shares with those who hold memberships at Autostrada, at one of two levels: social or storage.

Social members are “automotive enthusiasts and passionate collectors” who have comprehensive access to the private facility and its amenities. A busy calendar of events includes informal gatherings like a Thursday evening aperitivo and morning coffees. Autostrada also offers an easy meeting place for members who then take off on day-long rally drives.

Gioel and Ronni Molinari.

Autostrada has a flair for the dramatic.

The lounge awaits another event.

“The white floor is the canvas,” said Ronni Molinari, who owns the venue with her husband Gioel, “and the cars are the artwork.”

Storage members enjoy the same benefits as social members, as well as vehicle storage services with 24/7 access to Autostrada’s monitored, temperature-controlled, carbon monoxide-protected facility.

Not lucky enough to own your own primo ride? Not to worry.

The space is also available for rentals. Autostrada pairs with On the Marc, a popular catering and event firm that provides a host of food and drink menus to make any event memorable. Guests can mingle near the cars or relax in the chic lounge designed to evoke a high-end Milan cocktail bar or exclusive new hotel. With the vivid vintage autos providing both decor and an easy conversation starter, “all you do is just show up,” says Ronni, who has become a car fan herself. Her favorite is the Dallara convertible she and

her husband keep at their Italian residence for adventures with friends.

Having a place to meet is key for true aficionados. It’s a far cry from the car shows to which many enthusiasts are accustomed, Gioel says.“People are tired of having to go out to a field at seven in the morning to go talk to like-minded people,” he says. “This is a nicer way to get together, right here in Westport.”

But Autostrada is not limited to only cars. Some might say the sky’s the limit when it comes to specialty event guests.

“Recently, we had an airplane in here, a Cirrus SR22. It came in as parts and they assembled it on site,” Gioel says. “It’s another form of motoring, right? Just not on the ground!”

To learn more or to book an event at Autostrada, call 646-389-2131.

WITH THE BAND

Five Fairfield-County-based groups that are fitting music into their already-jam-packed lives.

ARTICLE BY LAUREN BROWN WEST-ROSENTHAL

Rock star dreams are alive and well in Fairfield County—and the proof is right here, in five local bands who prioritize their music along with their hectic careers and busy lives as parents.

“My kids often frame that I’m in a band as my real job.”

TEACUP SALLIE

As a management consultant who was always on the road, Tyler Cloherty wanted to start a band but didn't have consistent time to commit.  During COVID, he took the leap and joined the School of Rock adult shows, where he met Scott, Dave, and Jon. So, Teacup Sallie was born. Ashleigh and Matt joined later, rounding out the ensemble. Each member brings a unique musical perspective to the table, resulting in a wide range of influences including 90/00s rock, funk, elements of country, and indie.

COOL PARENT CRED:

Tyler jokes, “Since I'm a management consultant and no one understands what that means, my kids often

frame that I'm in a band as my real job.  It creates some fun questions at parent-teacher night!”

THEIR MUSIC:

Tyler tries to write about songs that are authentic to their experience, like "Something's Wrong in Suburbia," about the pressure of a high school student who can’t keep up with their competitive peers.

CATCH THEM LIVE:

The Weston Memorial Day Fair on May 25th and Aquila’s Nest Vineyard in Newtown on August 3rd and October 5th.

teacupsallieband.com; @teacupsallie_band

>

Teacup Sallie.

THE ALTERNATE ROUTES

The Alternate Routes was formed by Tim Warren and Eric Donnelly in 2002 while students at Fairfield University— they’ve been touring and performing around the U.S., Canada, and Europe ever since—with appearances on The Late Late Show with Craig Ferguson, Late Night with Conan O’Brien, and NPR’s Mountain Stage.

MAKING THE BAND:

The name came from a sign that Tim found that read “Road Closed. Seek Alternate Route.” It resonated with Tim because he’d just stopped making and performing music with a family member—but still wanted to keep going. They describe their sound as a blend of indie rock, and Americana, with a pinch of pop.

LOCAL STARS:

They don’t get recognized that often while out locally— sometimes they bump into fans while at Whole Foods or the bank. But Tim remembers being in Home Depot and hearing their song “Time Is a Runway” play over the loudspeaker.   “I was there with my son, and he thought I was playing it on my phone and didn’t realize the whole store could hear it—he asked me to turn it down!”

CATCH THEM LIVE:

Annually at the Fairfield Theatre Company in December, a featured act on a music festival cruise called The Rock Boat.

thealternateroutes.com; @thealternateroutes

MORNINGSIDE

The five members of Morningside—Matt, Bobby, Ian, Sean, and Nick— (named after Morningside Drive—the street they head down to get to most practices) are all local dads who call their sound “punk folk” with influences like The Lumineers, The Killers, and Noah Kahan.

THEIR MUSIC:

Every song on their upcoming album, due this fall, is an autobiographical or storytelling moment. “We’re really excited about the final product,” says Bobby, the lead singer. “We’ve spent many full days and nights in the studio, and we thank all our wives dearly for this extended time away.”

THEIR BIGGEST FANS:

Guitarist Matt's kids are ages one, three and five—and all love music.  “I consider it a win when they actively listen to an entire recording without telling me to put on Taylor Swift,” he says. And Bobby credits his five-year-old son as his biggest supporter. “I actually overheard him singing one of the choruses the other day in his room!” he says.

CATCH THEM LIVE

Recurring shows every other month at Black Duck.

@wearemorningside

The Alternate Routes. Photo by David Apuzzo.

Morningside. Photo by Allan Huber.

“Some of our songs are bluesy, some more ska, mixed with a good amount of punk and grunge attitude.”

TRASHING VIOLET

Up until lead vocalist Marisa Bloom was eight months pregnant with her first child, she played and toured in original bands. By the time her second was born in 2014, she was sticking to the occasional acoustic open mic nights. A few years later, Marisa connected with Anna V. on Bandmix – a matchmaking site for musicians – and they started jamming out on their electric guitars once a week around Fairfield County. They found Doug on Craigslist, Nick on Facebook and the rest is history.

ROCK ROOTS:

“Our songs [like their new single, Chase That Feeling] draw from the different strains of what I would call ‘alternative’ or ‘rock,’” says Doug. “Some of our songs are bluesy, some more ska, mixed with a good amount of punk and grunge

attitude.” The name Trashing Violet came from their shared love of the ‘90s—and that their first cover was the Hole song “Violet.”

BIG BREAK:

The night Trashing Violet opened for Tiffany, in April 2023, tops their list of memorable moments, sharing it was surreal when the pop star stopped by to say hello. Marisa remembers squealing at the top of her lungs when they got the gig—and then getting a reality check. “My younger son looked up and was like, ‘Who’s Tiffany?’”

CATCH THEM LIVE:

Trashing Violet performs throughout Connecticut and New York City, about once every 4-6 weeks.

trashingviolet.com; @trashingviolet

Trashing Violet. Photo by Ellektrik.

“The patience and appreciation for our nutty passion is perhaps the most important ingredient to making all this work.”

GOOD GODFREY

Good Godfrey is made up of Weston-based dads Garrett, Jesse, Tom,  Greg, Jon, and Jon, who came together during their girls’ soccer game. They discovered they’d all played in college bands and missed the creative outlet. They booked their first public gig, a friend’s backyard BBQ, in 2023. Then, Good Godfrey signed up for a battle of the bands competition in Danbury and won the grand prize.

MADE IN THE ‘80S:

Garrett, who plays drums, describes their sound and influences as if “Tom Petty, Mellencamp and the Doobie Brothers had an illegitimate child in 1983 in the back of an IROC-Z while listening to the Dead and the Doors cover Tommy Tutone.”

NEXT GENERATION:

A supportive family—especially a supportive spouse — is key to their success. “The patience and appreciation for our nutty passion is perhaps the most important ingredient to making all this work," says Garrett.

And the best part of their band? All of their kids are friends and often benefit from either big playdates at gigs or pizza parties and movie nights when they play out late.

CATCH THEM LIVE:

A stint at Lachat Farm in August.

@goodgodfreyband

Good Godfrey. Photo by Andrea Carson photography.

ARTICLE BY DISCOVERWESTPORTCT

What To Do On Father's Day

10 LOCAL IDEAS TO GIVE DAD A GREAT DAY.

Celebrate Father’s Day with a visit to Compo—bring burgers and hot dogs to cook on the grill, grab a baseball and play at the softball field, or a basketball to shoot hoops at the court.

Get your outdoor music fix at the Levitt Pavilion: The Wood Brothers, a bluesy-rock band, are performing on Father’s Day at 6 p.m. It will be the highlight of a great summer evening. Get tickets at levittpavilion.com

Start your Father’s Day off with a trip to Waveny Park in New Canaan to see a stunning display of vehicles from the past to the present (and grab a coffee). More info at  caffeineandcarburetors.com

Get active at Longshore with Dad this year. Whether land activities like golf, pickleball, or tennis are your thing— or if hitting the water on a sailboat adventure better suits your fancy— Longshore is the place to be.

You can rent Dad a kayak or paddle board at Sea Kayak CT, or better yet, schedule a tour of the Saugatuck River and surrounding area! Book at seakayakct.com

1. Compo Beach

3. Levitt Pavilion

4. Sea Kayak CT

2. Longshore

5. Caffeine and Carburetors

6. Black Duck

Grab some wings for the family at the Duck! Sit outside and enjoy the boats going by on the river, or stick around a little later for some live music and celebratory atmosphere.

8. Gabriele’s

Who can resist a delicious steak from Gabriele’s? Grab the whole family and a bottle of wine to make the evening complete.

Dazzle Dad with dinner at Sakura. Let the hibachi chefs entertain you with their showmanship skills and delicious food. Just make sure someone can catch the shrimp!

The fantastic service and warm atmosphere makes Hudson Malone an obvious choice for Father’s Day. With rotating specials and an impressive drinks menu, you’ll leave Dad satisfied.

Always a great place to spend time with Dad, now even better thanks to Little Pub. Dunville’s has been faithfully updated and continues to be the food and drink spot of choice for many Westporters.

7. Sakura

9. Dunville’s (Little Pub)

10. Hudson Malone

Catching Up With... Brian Lewis

ARTICLE BY SARA GAYNES LEVY

Great news for fans of Chef Brian Lewis’s acclaimed Westport restaurants OKO and The Cottage: There are more delicious eats to come. We sat down with Brian for an exclusive chat about the latest news from his restaurant group, Full House Hospitality Group.

A NEW POP-UP DINING CONCEPT

BANA, a seasonal pop-up dining experience (named for the moniker Brian’s twin sons gave their stuffed monkeys) will debut on July 20 at Wakeman Town Farm. “For this first one, I want to explore and celebrate the fishermen and fisherwoman farmers and ingredients of coastal New England, but with Japanese technique and influence,” says Brian. After the inaugural event, a new BANA will pop up quarterly in locations around Fairfield and Westchester counties. “The intention is, every quarter, to explore an exciting new [cuisine],” he says “For the following one, I could be doing anything from the foods of Peru to…anywhere on the globe.”

The heart of BANA will be celebrating community— from the farms and cultures the foods derive from to the diners themselves (each pop-up will be between 40-70 people).

“When I worked with Richard Gere, we used to say: what if we put people in a room and simply see what happens? I’m allowing myself to be totally creative.”

Plating a dish. Photo by EPG Creative.

A WAY TO GIVE BACK

Earlier this year, the restaurants in Brian’s portfolio— The Cottage in Westport and Greenwich, and OKO in Westport and Rye– formally banded together under the umbrella of the Full House Hospitality Group. “I’m the Chef of the company, but it’s more like Chef Executive Officer,” Brian says. “This is a hundred-plus employee company— we have sous chefs, chefs de cuisine, sushi chefs, managers— and I want to make sure that the chefs all feel they have a platform where they can find and display their voice and style.” Launching the restaurant group, he explains, allows for that while tying the restaurants together and bringing BANA into the fold. With that power behind his eateries, he’s been able to officially launch the Family Meal Foundation, a project that had its informal beginnings in the pandemic. Back then, he set up a meal train for nearly 70 employees to come by the restaurants and pick up food to bring home to their families. Seeing the impact was inspiring. “I realized, I have an opportunity to create something where I'm actually affecting change,” he says. The new iteration of the Family Meal Foundation (“family meal” is a restaurant-industry term for a meal provided to staff before a shift begins) is as a nonprofit that will deliver chef-crafted meals to folks struggling with health crises, bereavement, and financial difficulties. “My goal is for it to become an easy way to support people,” he says, and adds that he strives to work with future partners like local hospitals. (And twenty-five percent of ticket proceeds from BANA will go directly to the Family Meal Foundation.) As anyone who’s been through a hard time knows, sometimes a meal is the most incredible gift. And to have it be a Chef Brian Lewis meal? As they say, *chef's kiss*

“When I worked with Richard Gere, we used to say: what if we put people in a room and simply see what happens? I’m allowing myself to be totally creative.”

Chef Brian Lewis in the kitchen. Photo by EPG Creative.

“ ”Real estate transactions are more than just a deal. A good realtor understands this and approaches each client with not just professionalism but also compassion and a good bit of savvy. Jen and Danna took this to a new level for me and my boys. They understood what we needed on both our sale and purchase, and guided us to successful results on each side. I am forever grateful for their efforts and would not be where I am today without them.

- Amanda

WE ARE VERY PROUD TO BE A PART OF THE HIGGINS GROUP, Reader’s Choice 2023 Best Real Estate Agency!

30 Elm Street Bedford Square, Westport CT 06880 dannarogersandjenkass.com

Danna Rogers (917) 282-6292 • dannakrogers@gmail.com

Jen Kass (203) 368-8032 • jenkass32@gmail.com EVERYONE KNOWS A REALTOR… SO HOW DO YOU CHOOSE THE RIGHT ONE? It’s

Perfecting Your Golf Swing

ARTICLE BY DANIEL SCHOWENGERDT

Whether you are a new golfer or have been playing for decades, we all want the same thing—to be a single-digit handicap (or better). In some professions, golfing with clients is a must, and slicing off the tee box can kill the deal.

Get fit for equipment.

01.

If you are buying clubs off the rack, you aren’t giving yourself the best chance for success. Golf technology is evolving every year, and although you don’t need to buy a new driver each year, if you’ve been playing with the same clubs for 5+ years, it’s time to take advantage of the new equipment. Newer clubs have lower and deeper center of gravity (CG), creating an easier launch off the face. Even off-center strikes can produce a straight shot with the right set of clubs. Any major golf store will fit you for free—just make sure you get the correct length club and size grip. The clubs don’t swing themselves, so don’t neglect instruction and practice, but getting the right equipment is a vital piece of the puzzle.

On drivers and hybrids, some of the newest equipment have premium shaft options off the rack. Generally, a $300 driver has a low-grade $15 shaft that you should change. The shaft is the engine of the club, so getting custom shafts will add distance and forgiveness—guaranteed.

As for the putter, you use it more than any other club in your bag on every round of golf. It should be the most tailored club in your bag.

02.

Get good golf instruction, REGULARLY.

We’ve all heard someone say, “I should get a lesson sometime.” To be effective, you need regular lessons from a PGA certified pro, not just one lesson. Getting quality instruction from the same instructor can turn slices into draws and give you the confidence to play with anyone on any course. Years ago, golf instructors started instruction with chipping and putting and then graduated to the driver. Now, instructors have been pressured to start with the driver because we all want to outdrive our friends. Resist that temptation! Get instruction on your short game and irons first. My friend regularly outdrives me by 50 yards, but my ball is in the hole first most of the time because of my training and practice on the short game.

03.

Read quality golf books for a higher golf IQ.

There are thousands of golf books, but don’t worry, you only need to read a handful of them to up your golf IQ. Here are some top reads:

Short game: Dave Pelz’s Short Game Bible by Dave Pelz

Mental game: Golf is Not a Game of Perfect by Bob Rotella Mechanics: Practical Golf by John Jacobs

Ball flight laws: The Practice Manual by Adam Young (only read the first 50 pages)

04.

Practice your short game every day.

You don’t even have to spend time away from your family while practicing if you don’t have a golf simulator. You can practice putting and chipping on the carpet while watching TV with your family.

Chipping and the bump and run: The only mechanical advice I will give is the most important lesson you can learn in the short game. When you miss your approach shot you must be able to chip the ball within 8 feet of the hole for a one putt. Try this shot from Dave Peltz’s short game book. It gets me up and down from 25 yards out to just off the green.

SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS

JUNE 4TH

In Conversation: Doris Kearns Goodwin

The Westport Library, 20 Jesup Road 7:00 PM

Renowned historian Doris Kearns Goodwin takes a look at a different kind of history in her latest book, An Unfinished Love Story: her own. Chronicling her 42-year-long marriage to Richard (Dick) Goodwin,  An Unfinished Love Story is her most personal work yet, which she discusses with attendees at this intimate event. The event is free, registration recommended at  westportlibrary.org

JUNE 5TH

Mike Birbiglia Westport Country Playhouse, 25 Powers Ct. | 8:00 PM

Comedian, writer, and director Mike Birbiglia— known for his storytelling-meets-comedy stage shows—  is returning to Westport for his new show,  Please Stop the Ride. He workshopped his 2022 Broadway run of  The Old Man & the Pool at the Playhouse, and shared how much he enjoyed performing here. Tickets are $70 at westportplayhouse.org

Iris Netzer-Greenfield Kim Schwartz-Finkelstein

CONTINUED

JUNE 6TH

Shake It For Shea

The Warehouse at FTC, 70 Sanford Street, Fairfield | 7:30 PM Westport parents Mark and Kira Greenfield founded the Hearts In Harmony Foundation after their daughter, Shea, was born with Long QT Syndrome, a rare, life-altering heart condition. Their Shake It For Shea gala raises funds for the lab of Dr. Michael Ackerman at the Mayo Clinic, a researcher specializing in Long QT.  Tickets start at $200, at  givebutter.com/ShakeForShea2024

JUNE 15TH

Isaac Mizrahi: Live In Concert

Westport Country Playhouse, 25 Powers Ct | 8:00 PM

Actor, host, writer, designer, and producer Isaac Mizrahi brings his sixpiece jazz band to the WCP stage to sing classics ranging from Sondheim to Madonna, all with his signature comedic style. It's a cabaret evening not to be missed. Tickets are $49.50 at  westportplayhouse.org events

JUNE 15TH

Music in the Meadow with Clare Maloney & the Great Adventure

Lachat Town Farm, 1 Ladder Hill Road, Weston | 6:00 PM

The sounds of the “roadtrip rock and roll” played by Clare Maloney & the Great Adventure officially kick off the 2024 season at Lachat Town Farm. Tickets are $29.50 plus fees, at eventbrite.com

JUNE 16TH

The Wood Brothers

The Levitt Pavilion, 40 Jesup Road 6:00 PM

Country trio The Wood Brothers play a Father’s Day show at the riverfront concert venue, with opening band The Bygones. They’ll play tracks from their most recent album, Heart is the Hero. Tickets start at $31, at levittpavilion.com

JUNE 16TH

MoCA Westport

Artisan Marketplace: Summer Series

MoCA Westport, 19 Newtown Turnpike | 12:00 PM

On select dates throughout the summer – June 16, June 30, July 14, July 28, August 4, August 18, and September 8 from 12:00-4:00– this series celebrates the craftsmanship of local artisans, offering visitors a unique opportunity to peruse and appreciate an eclectic array of handmade treasures. For more information visit  mocawestport.org

JUNE 18TH

The 100th Annual Fairfield County Hunt Club Horse Show

174 Long Lots Rd | 8:00 AM

The 100th annual June Horse Show runs from June 18th through June 22nd. Named National Show Hunter Hall of Fame Top Ten Horse Show for 2023 and Top Six Hunter Derby for 2023, this Heritage Competition is fun for everyone! Join us for Derbies, classic cars, cocktails and more! The show begins at 8 a.m., with social events at 4 p.m.

VENETIAN PRINCESS