KYLE MARTINO, DAN WOOG, AND DOZENS MORE THINGS TO LOVE ABOUT WESTPORT'S BEST SEASON
our uniquely developed stretch mechanism offers effortless wearability, making it incredibly easy to slip on and off while ensuring a perfect fit and exceptional comfort.
June in Westport always feels like a shift in the best way. First, this month marks the eight-year anniversary of Westport Lifestyle! We are so grateful to this community for the past eight amazing years. Second, after celebrating the incredible women who shape our community in last month’s Women’s Issue, this month we’re turning the focus to the gentlemen who are making their own impact across town and beyond.
Our June Gentleman’s Issue highlights leadership, creativity, and influence in a way that feels very Westport. On the cover, we’re excited to feature Dan Woog, the voice behind 06880, whose thoughtful, hyper-local storytelling has become part of the daily rhythm here, alongside Kyle Martino, whose path from professional athlete to entrepreneur continues to evolve in impressive ways. His latest venture, Street FC—which landed him on Shark Tank— is a perfect example of that next chapter.
Inside, we’re leaning into everything that makes summer in Westport what it is. Long days, busy calendars, and those moments that remind you why you live here. We also take a look at the reimagined Yale Golf Course, an iconic space getting a fresh perspective while still honoring its roots.
For a bit of escape, our travel feature heads to The Cove at Atlantis, easy, elevated, and exactly the kind of place that fits a summer mindset. Our Editors’ Pick this month is Glamsquad, perfect for getting event-ready without the stress as the social calendar fills up.
As always, this issue is about the people and places that make this community what it is. We hope you enjoy it and find something new along the way.
MARISA MACLEAN, PUBLISHER @WESTPORTLIFESTYLE
June 2026
PUBLISHER
Marisa MacLean | marisa.maclean@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Sara Gaynes Levy | sara.gayneslevy@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Elizabeth Ginns Britten, Marisa MacLean
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Bevy Rutlege, Jerri Graham, John Videler
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
President Matthew Perry
COO David Stetler
CRO Jamie Pentz
CoS Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Rachel Chrisman
LAYOUT DESIGNER Rhiannon Coffman
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Brandy Thomas
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18: Actress Gina Gershon in conversation with journalist and Westporter Alisyn Camerota at VersoFest. 19: Craig Melvin and First Selectman Kevin Christie at Wyclef Jean's VersoFest performance. 20: Bill Harmer, center, the executive director of The Westport Library, at VersoFest 2026. 21: Attendees at Wyclef Jean's VersoFest performance. Photography by Kerry Long
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The Westport Garden Club, along with the Westport Arts Advisory Committee and The Westport Library, announced the winners of the National Garden Clubs, Inc., and Federated Garden Clubs of Connecticut Youth Poetry Contest. Four entries from Westport were awarded first place in their grade at the state level this past March: I Planted a Seed by G. Olanoff, Pollinators by D. Deeckan, A Century of Care by R.R. Paransky, and Our World by S. DeVito.
Dr. Tanya Futoryan of Westport Dermatology & Laser Center was recently named a Castle Connolly Top Doctor in Cosmetic Dermatology for 2026. She has received the distinction every year since 2022. For more information on Dr. Futoryan and her practice, visit westportderm.com
MoCA/CT's latest exhibition, The Disappointed Tourist, debuts on June 25 (through August 2). The museum says: "In this global project, artist Ellen Harvey transforms vanished sites into luminous paintings that preserve memory through art." Fairfield County residents were asked to submit their favorite local places lost to time, and four will be featured in the exhibit. For more, visit mocact.org
DAN WOOG IS THE VOICE OF OUR ZIP CODE. HERE’S HOW IT ALL BEGAN.
ARTICLE BY SARA GAYNES LEVY | PHOTOGRAPHY BY BEVY RUTLEDGE
Rod Serling, the iconic creator and host of The Twilight Zone, made an indelible impact on pop culture. But one of his lesser-known legacies has to be the creation of a Westport institution: if it weren’t for Rod Serling’s stint in Westport in the 1950s, we wouldn’t have Dan Woog.
Yes, it was on Serling’s advice that Dan’s parents moved here when he was three. Serling and Dan’s father, Jim, were friends through Antioch College in the late 1940s. When the Woogs were looking to move somewhere with their two young children (Dan’s sister, Sue, was one at the time), Serling suggested the Woogs purchase one
“It's so gratifying, knowing I helped someone feel at home in a place that has been home to me for so long.”
of the new homes going up on High Point Road, where he also lived. "So they paid $27,000 for a house, and the rest is history,” Dan tells Westport Lifestyle
Most Westporters today know Dan for his unceasing work on his news site, 06880, which is “where Westport meets the world.” Since launching in 2009, Dan has updated the Westport-focused site (which began as a blog, but has almost certainly outgrown that title) daily—often multiple times. “I have not missed a day,” he says proudly. But Dan’s work reporting on and covering Westport goes back nearly as long as he’s lived here. “From an early
age, I felt very connected to the town,” he says, describing his childhood on High Point Road as “very Stand By Me,” full of bike rides to Longshore and long days playing with neighbors. “I love history, so I loved learning about where this place came from, back to the 1700s,” he says. In high school, at Staples, he took his appreciation for the town to the Westport News, then a weekly print newspaper. “When I was in 10th grade, I went down there and said to the editor, ‘You know, the senior who is writing the column ‘Up at Staples’ is going to graduate. Can I take it over?’” The answer was yes. Dan wrote “Up at Staples”
for the next two years, covering a dynamic time in the school’s history, encompassing anti-Vietnam War protests, Civil Rights demonstrations, top-tier athletics, the storied arts program, and even Staples’ experiment with self-government. “It was a formative experience,” he says. “It taught me how to write, and how to write quickly. I’m very grateful for the opportunity.”
Dan’s byline appeared in the Westport News from 1969, when he was a high schooler writing “Up at Staples,” until his final “Woog’s World” column in 2024—a tenure spanning 55 years. He didn’t originally plan to build his career here
in Westport, though. After graduating from Brown University in 1975, “I had no intention of coming back,” he says. But he got a job offer from a psychiatric hospital in Westport called Hall-Brooke to do community relations, and he took it. Shortly after starting, he realized what he really wanted to do was focus on writing. So, from Westport, he launched a thriving freelance career, writing for everything from airline magazines to IBM to locally-based Tauck Tours to more than a dozen books, including School’s Out, a memoir called We Kick Balls: True Stories from the Youth Soccer Wars, Staples High School: 120 Years of A+ Education, and many more . He was also the sports editor at the Westport News, which dovetailed nicely with another role he picked up after coming back: youth soccer coach. “After college, I asked Albie Loeffler, who had been my soccer coach at Staples, ‘Is there a need in the soccer world?’ And he said, ‘We need youth teams.’ So I started one, and very quickly out of that, grew the Westport Soccer Association.” In 1983, he joined the Staples coaching staff as the head freshman coach, and soon added the JV team and served as the assistant coach to the varsity team. He coached 1999 Gatorade Player of the Year Kyle Martino during his Staples career (for more on this, see page 52), and was inducted into the Connecticut Soccer Hall of Fame in 2000. When head varsity coach Jeff Lea stepped down in 2003, Dan took over that role until his retirement in 2022. “It was great. It kept me young, to be a part of kids’ lives and help them not just with soccer, but with all the lessons that sports teaches,” he says. His lessons had a major impact, too: he was named Connecticut High School Soccer Coach of the Year in 2011. Somehow, amid all these commitments, he found time to launch 06680. “[When I started the site], I was worried about the future of local journalism. I thought it was important, and I still do.” So he taught himself the basics of blogging over a weekend, and debuted the site in March of 2009, amassing subscribers almost immediately. “I had no idea where it was going to go, but there were elements of it that really appealed to me: the interactivity, being able to hear instantly from readers; using multimedia elements to tell the stories; and to be able to write about anything Westport-related,” he says. Seventeen years later, the site is the virtual hub of the town, often breaking news and providing valuable community connection. (That connection translates offline, too, with events like the annual 06880/Westport Downtown Association Holiday Stroll, and the upcoming Soundview Summer Stroll, held in collaboration between 06880 and the Compo Beach Improvement Association , which you can read about on page 44.) These days, Dan starts his morning by doing the bulk of his writing from 5:30 to 9 a.m., takes a break to exercise at the Westport Weston Family YMCA, and spends the afternoon responding to issues and questions in real-time.
It kept me young, to be a part of kids’ lives and help them not just with soccer, but with all the lessons that sports teaches.
(If you’ve ever been in the 06880 comment section, you'll know Dan is regularly there, responding to readers.) And Dan loves his daily grind. “People will tell me, 'I just moved here two months ago, and [06880] has really helped me understand my town.’ That’s so gratifying, knowing I helped someone feel at home in a place that has been home to me for so long.”
It might go without saying, but given his wide, varied career, it’s not easy to find a way to sufficiently honor Dan’s legacy here in town. Still, RTM member Andrew Colabella is trying: earlier this year, he launched a petition to name Wakeman B Field in Dan’s honor, which, at press time, had 2,842 signatures. “I was speechless,” Dan says of learning about the proposal. “You know, I was not a great athlete. And nobody goes into anything–whether it's teaching, coaching, or writing—with the idea that they’re going to get rewarded for it, other than intrinsically. But to have people think of me that way…it means more to me than words can express. To be thought of in the same breath as Albie Loeffler, Jinny Parker, Paul Lane, and P.J. Romano, all of whom have fields named after them, is wild.” Maybe it seems that way to Dan, but to nearly 3,000 Westporters and counting, it’s poetic—and seems pretty perfect.
At age 73, Dan shows no signs of slowing down. But it’s easy for him to sum up what keeps him going. “It’s the town, and it's the people,” he says. “And they’re intertwined. The town is in really good hands, and that’s part of what motivates me: I want to let people know what this town was and where it has come from, so that they can take it into the future.”
To read and support 06880, visit 06880.org
OUR TOWN THRIVES YEAR-ROUND, BUT THERE’S SOMETHING ABOUT THE SUMMER SEASON THAT GIVES IT SOME EXTRA SHINE. HERE’S YOUR GUIDE TO EVERYTHING TO EAT, SEE, DO, AND ENJOY BEFORE LABOR DAY.
1.
You can find unique twists on this Italian staple of warm-weather months at spots like Felice, where their menu includes the Bianco Spritz which has fresh lemon juice, Italicus (a bergamot liqueur known for floral sweetness), Strega (for subtle notes of mint, juniper, and fennel), and a cucumber and mint garnish. “We love how each spritz expresses the season’s freshness through its own story,” says Elvis Aguirre, Felice’s bar operations manager. Over at Massi Co., “The Summer of Spritz” is in full effect on their newly-opened Post Road patio. Beverage director Nico Rainey-Ray brought over smallbatch Italian liqueurs like Aspide, a Sardinian aperitivo made from wild herbs and bittersweet citrus, and Nepeta, a Sicilian amaro distilled from wild calamint and sun-dried lemon, to their bar program. You’ll also find produce-centered beverages tied to summer's pinpoint-specific peak freshness, like strawberries in June, figs in August, and house-grown gooseberries. There's not a bad one in the lineup (pictured), and there’s no surer sign that summer has arrived than that first sip.
Each year, the Westport-Weston Chamber of Commerce polls residents for their favorite eats in a given category; this year’s was sandwiches. The crowned winners included the chicken sandwich from Garelick & Herbs, the combo sandwich from A&S Fine Foods, and the NY Deli sandwiches from Gold's Delicatessen any of which would be perfect for a packed lunch at Compo—but you could spend a whole summer eating your way through their previous winners, which include classic burgers from Shake Shack, cheese pizza from Pizza Lyfe, and vegetable soup from Organic Market.
There are too many great sun-soaked spots to count: there’s the eateries on Church Lane like Spotted Horse, Pink Sumo, and The Blondinit that spill into the streets and feature live music on weekend evenings. There are the first-timer outdoor spaces, at new spots Massi Co. and Felice. "Railroad Place is the go-to place for al fresco dining in the summer. Four restaurants; Tarantino’s, Blu Olive, Romanacci and Allium are all lined up,” says Matthew Mandell, the executive director and president of the Westport-Weston Chamber of Commerce.
There are sweeping river views at The Bridge at Saugatuck. “Outdoor season at The Bridge is really where everything comes together," says Stephen Lewandowski, The Bridge's managing partner and executive chef. "You have this balance of crafted New England cuisine, sunset views, and that coastal air that just shifts the mood.”
At The Whelk, the recently renovated waterfront patio has fire pits and a new “Oysters & Rosé on the River” pairing, featuring local oysters from Copps Island in Norwalk and dry, mineralic Château Les Valentines rosé from Provence. (The Whelk is the only restaurant in Westport with that particular wine.)
It’s just hard to have a bad time when you’re dining al fresco in Westport.
Westport’s only all-outdoor music venue offers more than 50 free shows under the stars each season, and this year’s lineup is another stellar one (pun intended). “We are bringing back favorites and deepening relationships with artists, and we are also bringing in new voices from all over the world,” says Carleigh Welsh, the vice president and executive producer at the Levitt Pavilion for the Performing Arts. This month, there's a two-night residency from returning favorite The Disco Biscuits on June 12 and 13, an appearance from the jam-rocking Rolling Together Revue Tour (which features G. Love, Donavon Frankenreiter, and Moon Taxi) on June 23, Greensky Bluegrass on June 11, Lucius on June 20, and Dark Star Orchestra on June 21. Plus, here’s a look at what else is coming up this summer. For tickets and more info visit levittpavilion.com 4.
On July 10, the Levitt Pavilion presents Matteo Bocelli’s Falling In Love World Tour. Matteo is the son of world-famous tenor Andrea Bocelli, but his sound is all his own, blending modern pop production and classical Italian techniques. His music couldn’t be a better match for summer: think Tuscan vineyards and “la dolce vita” on a moonlit Westport night.
Every Wednesday night, the Levitt hosts kid and parent-approved concerts. “Our children’s series features Grammy-award winning artists who are enjoyable for ears of every age,” says Carleigh. “It’s an opportunity to bring children of all ages to shows and introduce them to all sorts of music and art forms.” And they’re completely free. “The premise of them being free is to be an invitation to discover, explore, and make active listening a part of daily life.”
2026 marks the sesquicentennial of the U.S. (that’s the 250th birthday), and the Levitt is celebrating with jazz shows all summer. “There’s a beautiful jazz through-line all season—it’s a unique American art form, and an exciting way to celebrate,” says Carleigh. In fact, the season kicks off with Charlie Hall and the Get Up With It tribute to the Miles Davis Centennial on May 24, and continues with a free show from Jumaane Smith on June 7, and Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra with Wynton Marsalis on June 28.
The venerable theater, now in its 96th season, used to primarily be a summer institution, acting as a seasonal home base for N.Y.C.based performers and artists who spent JuneSeptember in Westport. These days, there’s hardly an off week, but that doesn’t make summers at WCP any less special—just look at this lineup. For tickets, showtimes, and more, visit westportplayhouse.org 5.
Closing out the WCP’s 2025/2026 season is their production of Agatha Christie’s The Murder of Roger Ackroyd, adapted for the stage by the Playhouse’s artistic director, Mark Shanahan. The show is the quintessential mansion murder mystery, full of twists, turns, and masterful moments. It’s a perfect summer night out. It runs July 14-August 1.
The youngest Westporters shouldn’t miss the return of Pinkalicious The Musical, based on the beloved picture books by Westporter Victoria Kann, on June 7. And animal lovers of all ages will enjoy the tour of Mutts Gone Nuts, a high-energy show of incredibly talented dogs and their most impressive tricks, rolling through Westport on June 21.
Judy Garland would turn 104 on June 10, and to celebrate, Jenna Pastuszek is bringing her show, Get Happy! Celebrating 100+ years of Judy Garland, which features songs from The Wizard of Oz, Easter Parade, The Judy Garland Show, and more, to the Westport Country Playhouse on June 17. The Playhouse also hosts its third annual golf tournament featuring canasta and mahjong for the less links-inclined!—at Birchwood Country Club on June 15. And there are more cabarets, concerts, and events still to be announced— check westportplayhouse.org early and often.
On Wednesday, June 3, the 20th annual Taste of Westport offers diners a chance to sample bites and drinks from some of the area's top restaurants. The event benefits CLASP Homes, which helps provide group homes and round-the-clock services for adults with autism and developmental disabilities. This year's Taste is at the Fairfield County Hunt Club; for tickets and more information, visit tasteofwestport.com And later this summer, catch the 14th annual Slice of Saugatuck Festival, billed as a “food tasting and retail experience,” features dozens of restaurants, shops, and galleries along Riverside Avenue, Railroad Place, and Saugatuck Avenue sharing samples and good vibes. There’s live music, activities for kids, and of course, plenty to eat. Sponsored by the Westport-Weston Chamber of Commerce, this year’s festivities happen on Saturday, September 26. For more information and participating vendors, visit westportwestonchamber.com
Dan Woog (see page 32) instituted this tradition in 2024, a collaboration between his site 06880 and the Compo Beach Improvement Association. The Summer Stroll closes off a stretch of Soundview Drive to vehicle traffic and fills the street with live music, kids’ activities, food stations, and “a fun community vibe.” This year’s stroll will be on July 26th, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., so save the date.
Described by many Westporters as “the best night of the year,” the 2026 PAL Independence Day Fireworks Celebration, generously sponsored by Melissa & Doug Bernstein and the Bernstein Family Foundation, will light up the skies on July 2, with a rain date of July 3. Passes, which go on sale June 1 at the Westport Police Department (50 Jesup Rd) and June 3 at the Parks and Recreation Office (260 Compo Rd. S), are cash or check only, and parking spots start disappearing around 5 a.m. on the day of the show. But it’s worth the sacrifice to be on the beach for this magical night.
Downtown Westport comes alive in the summer, and one of the best shopping weekends of the year is the annual Sidewalk Sale, sponsored by the Westport Downtown Association. From June 26 through the 28, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., you’ll find deep discounts all along Main Street, and not just from stores—select salons, fitness and wellness studios, and more local favorites also participate. For more information, visit westportdowntown.com
The Fair is a “Westport institution,” and for good reason: the annual weekend, running from Thursday, June 18 through Sunday, June 21, features carnival rides and games, classic fair food from both the food court and the WWC’s bake sale, raffle prizes, and happy kids of all ages. The Yankee Doodle Fair is a major source of funding for the Westport Women’s Club’s philanthropic programs, including local grants and need-based scholarships for Staples seniors. For more information, visit westportwomansclub.org
Yes, you can shop the WFM ten months out of the year, but there’s something special about the transition, on May 7, from the indoor Gilbertie’s location to the 50 Imperial Avenue blacktop. And this is an especially-special year: the market is celebrating its 20th anniversary, a rare milestone among farmers’ markets. “We’re grounded in staying authentic and serving our community,” Lori Cochran-Dougall, the executive director of the WFM, says of the market’s longevity. Every Thursday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., you’ll find delicious, sustainable vendors (most of which you can’t shop anywhere else), including five new-for-2026 ones, like Rudeboy Baking Co. and Black Girl Kimchi. “I want you to walk through the market and just feel like ‘this place loves me,’” says Lori. On behalf of shoppers all over town: mission accomplished.
Westporters are immeasurably lucky to have Compo Beach in our literal backyard: whether you're barbecuing, enjoying the playground, or just lounging with a good book, it's always a wonderful place to spend a warm, happy day. To best enjoy it, though, you want to be prepared, so we're finishing off our summer guide with Compo-approved picks for beach gear, from dermatologist-recommended sunscreens to sand-friendly coolers, towels, and wagons. Now pack your bag and savor every moment of this special season.
Dr. Lauren Levy is a board-certified dermatologist at Westport Dermatology & Laser Center who specializes in acne, rosacea, hair loss, and medical dermatology. She shared her favorite sunscreens with Westport Lifestyle for healthy, hydrated, sun-safe skin.
BEST FOR DAILY USE: ELTAMD UV CLEAR
“It’s non-mineral and great for those with acne-prone skin. And it comes in tinted and non-tinted formulations.” $45 at Bluemercury
BEST FACE STICK: NEUTROGENA ULTRA SHEER FACE STICK, SPF 60
“Easy application and does not leave a white paste. It’s great for kids at camp, or to keep in your bag for a mid-day reapply.” $15 at CVS
BEST LIP SUNSCREEN: COLORESCIENCE PEPTIDE LIP SHINE, SPF 30
“It keeps lips hydrated and has several different shades to choose from. And no sunscreen taste!” $31.50 at target.com
BEST PREVENTATIVE: INNER GLOW SOL DEFENSE GUMMIES
“Taking two gummies one hour before sun exposure helps your skin fight free radical damage,” Dr. Levy explains. “It contains Polypodium Leucotomos and niacinamide, which can help prevent sun damage. Studies show that taking these gummies prior to sun exposure can reduce your chance and/or intensity of burn. My whole family takes them every day during the summer and high sun exposure days. They taste delicious.” (Just use regular sunscreen, too!) $32 at amazon.com
BEST MINERAL FOR DAILY USE: EUCERIN SENSITIVE MINERAL, SPF 35+
“This is my favorite for every day because the tint protects from blue light,” says Dr. Levy. “It’s especially good to use tinted if you suffer from melasma. The shade is just enough coverage to forgo heavy makeup in hot weather.” $20 at CVS
BEST IF YOU HAVE REDNESS/ROSACEA: ELTAMD UV SKIN RECOVERY SPF 50
“This is a lightweight daily sunscreen for those prone to facial redness or impaired skin barrier, with ceramides to repair and soothe the skin. It even comes in a green-tinted version for those who suffer from severe facial redness.” $52 at Bluemercury
BEST BODY SPRAY: ELTAMD UV AOX MIST, SPF 40
“I prefer a mineral spray sunscreen, rather than a chemical spray,” she says. “This one has a sheer finish, antioxidants, and won't leave your skin pasty and dry.” $46 at Bluemercury
RUNNER UP: SUNBUM MINERAL SUNSCREEN SPRAY, SPF 50
“It is a little thicker than the Aox, but it really holds up in the water. Great for long beach days.” $22 at CVS
BEST SCALP SUNSCREEN: COOLA SCALP AND HAIR SUNSCREEN MIST
“It’s a non-greasy spray that protects your part from burns.” $30 at Ulta
DR. LAUREN LEVY
Dr. Levy graduated from the Mount Sinai School of Medicine and did her residency at Yale’s Department of Dermatology. She is the author of numerous publications and editor of a popular dermatology board review textbook. Her hobbies include spending time with her children, Pilates, and watching Bravo.
Tested by our editor, Sara Gaynes Levy, who also road tests family-friendly products for outlets like PEOPLE, The Strategist, and Babylist
Every time my husband brings this wagon to Compo Beach, someone stops him to ask where he got it. Yes, it's pricey, but it's 10 times more durable than the flimsy pop-open wagons—the tires can actually maneuver on the sand, and the optional add-on canvas shades ($19 each) give our kids a shady place to picnic if the sun gets too strong.
We bring this cooler to Compo constantly: it fits tons of stuff, keeps things impressively cold (don't sleep on the Yetibranded accompanying ice packs, $25 each, for when you forget to buy ice), and has extra-sturdy wheels for dragging into the sand. The handle tucks away but provides impressive turning leverage, and the spigot drains when the party's over.
TRAILHEAD CAMP CHAIR, $300, YETI.COM
The best chairs ever, of all time. They collapse neatly into wearable backpacks. They open so easily you can do it one-handed. They have built-in cupholders. The seat is high enough that it's not a chore to get in and out of them. Simply a 10/10 purchase.
VEER CITY CRUISER WAGON, $699, POTTERYBARNKIDS.COM SPIELSTABIL ICE CREAM DUO, $15 AT NORDSTROM BATHING CULTURE COSMIC RAINBOW ORGANIC BODY TOWEL, $88, REVOLVE.COM
I love this local brand, and their portable cornhole set is just too fun. The genius design packs up like a suitcase, and the bean bags sit in built-in storage pockets. It's an all-in-one good time, too: the set includes two boards, bean bags, internal storage, and dual scorekeepers.
How cute are these ultra-absorbent beach towels? They're made from organic cotton, so soft and plush, and dry quickly. I also adore the happy, bright colors and the way they stand out on the sand: you'll never lose your spot!
I always have this ice-cream-themed sand toy set in my beach bag—it takes up almost no room, and everyone loves playing "ice cream shop" along the Compo shores. (Pro tip: I've also spotted these at The Toy Post on the Post Road!)
L.L. BEAN BOAT AND TOTE ZIP-TOP, $65, LLBEAN.COM
It's a classic for a reason. I've had many other beach and pool bags over the years, but I always come back to this one. It's seemingly indestructible, always bounces back from getting splashed or covered in sand, and holds everything. Splurge to get it monogrammed so you know it's yours, and definitely get the extra-long handles!
ARTICLE BY SARA GAYNES LEVY
PHOTOGRAPHY BY BEVY RUTLEDGE/ABC
Earlier this year, former pro soccer player (and former Westporter) Kyle Martino appeared on ABC’s Shark Tank, seeking an investment in his company, Street FC, an app that connects players to pickup soccer games in their area. “But the story of the company, honestly, starts here in Westport,” Kyle tells Westport Lifestyle. The inspiration to build Street FC traces back to his days as a Bedford Middle School student, he says. “We had something called ‘short goal,’ which were small side games at Staples that kids of any age or gender could show up to. I started playing in those games when I was 12 or 13,” he says. “That was really how I connected with soccer and realized the community of soccer in this town. Westport gave me a deep, insatiable love for the sport.” From then on, Kyle sought out pickup soccer games all over the area: at the Field House in Fairfield or in Mount Vernon, N.Y., or up in Bridgeport. “I was a blacktop rat,” he says. “I would go up to kids in the Staples cafeteria and tell them ‘you’re staying after school and you’re playing.’ All that time I spent playing soccer on concrete helped my game so much. If I wasn’t playing basketball or skateboarding, I was playing soccer. I didn’t realize it at the time, but seeking out these ecosystems became a part of my personality.”
Kyle went on to play midfielder at Staples. (He credits one of his coaches, Dan Woog, who you can read more about on page 32, with “fueling the flames of the love of soccer” while also acting as “another parental figure—someone who had your back but also called you out if you needed it. He wanted us to be more than soccer players.”) He was named the 1998-1999 Gatorade Player of the Year at Staples. He went on to play for the University of Virginia, becoming the ACC Player of the Year his junior year, then played professionally for the Columbus Crew and the Los Angeles Galaxy. But when Kyle experienced a career-ending injury at age 27, he had to reevaluate his relationship to the sport. “The day the game is over can be a really challenging identity crisis for professional athletes, and I didn’t even get to plan my exit—it was taken from me,” he says. “Now, I’ve become a fan again.” It was during that soul-searching process that he went back to his foundational love: those pickup games in and around Westport. “I realized this spontaneous, incredible, organic way that we all access the sport was disappearing,” he says. And in his travels around the world (both as a player and, later, a studio analyst and commentator for NBC Sports), he saw that places where the culture of pickup games wasn’t dying had one thing in common: they all had soccer
“Westport
gave me a deep, insatiable love for the sport.”
goals perched under their basketball hoops on public access courts. “I thought to myself, New York City has 2,000 basketball courts, and is filled with kids who come from countries where soccer is the number one sport. If I can find a solution to get them playing soccer this way, that’s my dream.” Street FC went from dream to reality in 2019, and is now in 13 cities, with more than 15,000 players. “Street FC is really the gift to the seven-year-old in me,” he says, As the platform grew, and as this summer’s World Cup approached, Kyle got a surprising call asking if he wanted to appear on season 17 of Shark Tank. “They said ‘we’ve seen what you’ve done, and we would love it if you wanted to be on the show,’” he recalls. He couldn’t turn down the opportunity.
Kyle’s appearance on Shark Tank ended with two offers and an eventual investment from the guest shark, Reddit co-founder Alexis Ohanian (who is married to Serena Williams). “Alexis and I both went to UVA, and we’d come across each other in the tech and sports worlds, but we’d never talked about him investing in any of my companies,” Kyle says. (Kyle is also the co-founder of Goalpher, a pop-up soccer goal that can be stored underground when not in use, and the co-founder and chief business officer of American Football Company, a parent company and business development engine for soccer-focused enterprises.) “To have another entrepreneur validate what we are building—to have him say ‘I believe in you’—it was amazing.”
There’s a lot to believe in. Street FC is a tangible example of Kyle’s steadfast conviction that there’s power in unstructured, recreational soccer. “I truly believe if you keep your kids focused on enjoyment and community—not competition and performance—the longer they’ll stay in sports, and the better player they’ll be.” It’s an impactful message, especially coming from such an elite athlete. “The legacy we need to leave behind is that the system needs to carve out a place for free and spontaneous play,” he says.
“The legacy we need to leave behind is that the system needs to carve out a place for free and spontaneous play.”
He’s dedicated to that mission—not just with Street FC, or Goalpher, or AFC, but also this summer, when he will serve as an ambassador for U.S. Soccer during the 2026 World Cup. He’s also got a new, daily morning show called The Robbies and Friends where he’ll be discussing all things World Cup with former Premier League players and hosts of The 2 Robbies soccer analysis podcast Robbie Mustoe and Robbie Earle. (The idea for the show, he says, was born from a brainstorming session at The Spotted Horse in Westport between Kyle, the Robbies, and PepsiCo’s CMO Mark Kirkham. There’s always a Westport connection!) With the World Cup bringing all eyes to the sport he loves, this is the moment to seize. “If I can shape and bend this system—which is headed toward hyper-specialization and kids dropping out of soccer—towards what it felt like when I was little? Where it’s free, it’s expressive, it’s spontaneous, it’s community-based? That’s the legacy I want to leave.”
For more information about Street FC, visit streetfc.city. Follow Kyle at @kylemartino
Yale Golf Course is celebrating 100 years—and you’re invited to play this historic course.
BY ELIZABETH GINNS BRITTEN | PHOTOGRAPHY BY EVAN SCHILLER/YALE ATHLETICS
For many golfers in Westport, summer rounds revolve around a familiar loop: early mornings at Longshore or one of the local golf clubs, a reliable tee time, and the comfort of knowing every fairway and green.
But this season, there’s a compelling reason to break from routine.
Less than an hour from Westport, the Yale Golf Course in New Haven marks its 100th anniversary this year, with a major restoration that invites even the most loyal Longshore regulars to try something new.
Originally designed by pioneering architects Charles Blair Macdonald and Seth Raynor, the Yale Golf Course opened in 1926 and quickly earned a reputation for bold design and strategic complexity. “It has long been regarded as one of the finest collegiate golf courses in the country,” says Colleen Murphy, Yale Athletics assistant director of strategic communications, pointing to its enduring role as both a competitive venue and a place rich in tradition.
Set across the rolling terrain of New Haven, the course feels immediately different from the more familiar Fairfield County landscape. Wide, sweeping fairways, expansive greens, and “template” holes inspired by classic European designs create a playing experience that is as thoughtful as it is visually striking.
That sense of intention, however, had softened over time. “The course lost much of its original design, even as it remained a very popular place to play,” Colleen explains. The centennial offered an opportunity not just to celebrate, but to restore, and bring the course back to its original vision while preparing it for the future.
“It has long been regarded as one of the finest collegiate golf courses in the country.”
Acclaimed architect Gil Hanse led the restoration, focusing on recapturing the scale and strategy that defined Yale from the beginning. “His focus was on honoring the original design while ensuring the course remains relevant and enjoyable for modern players,” Colleen says.
That meant going beyond surface updates. “A major priority was reclaiming bunker shapes, expanding greens, tees and fairways,” she explains. “Just as important was preserving the strategic options that define the course, ensuring that each hole forces thoughtful play.”
Golfers notice the difference immediately.
Now stretching beyond 7,000 yards from the championship tees, the course delivers a more expansive and dynamic round. But it’s not just about length, it’s about how the course asks you to play. “The playing experience is both challenging and rewarding,” Colleen says. “It demands strategy and creativity, encouraging players to think through each shot while also appreciating the natural beauty and scale of the layout.”
And then there are the moments you won’t get at your usual course.
The ninth hole, a classic Biarritz, stands out as one of the most recognizable in golf, with a dramatic, undulating green, while the par-3 13th hole, built in the Redan style, continues to challenge even seasoned players. Together, these holes reflect a design philosophy that prioritizes variety and decision-making—something that makes each round feel a little different.
For Westport players accustomed to the rhythms of Longshore, it’s a refreshing shift. And a surprisingly
accessible one. While the course remains an integral part of Yale’s campus life, serving students, faculty, alumni, and both the men’s and women’s varsity teams, it also welcomes the public, making it an easy addition to a summer rotation for those willing to plan ahead.
“Yale offers a rare opportunity to play a historic, architecturally significant course that has been thoughtfully restored,” Colleen says. “Its combination of history, design, and atmosphere makes it a unique destination.”
Tee times must be booked in advance, and first-time visitors should come prepared for a course that is as scenic as it is demanding. But that’s part of the appeal: this isn’t your everyday round. It’s something a little more intentional.
The timing of the reopening also feels special. “The restoration honors the long history of the course while also setting it up for the future,” Colleen says. “Reopening it during the centennial year makes it even more meaningful.”
For Westport golfers, it’s certainly an invitation worth taking.
For more information or to book a tee time, visit yalebulldogs.com
Michael Wein
Portfolio Manager
Senior Vice President
Financial Advisor
500 Post Road East 3rd Fl Westport, CT 06880
+1 203 221-6071
Michael.Wein@morganstanley.com NMLS ID - 1261751
© 2025 Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC. Member SIPC. BCO07 CRC 4044509 11/24
ARTICLE BY MARISA MACLEAN
Some vacations are designed for adults. Others are built entirely for kids. And then there are the rare places that somehow manage to make both generations equally happy. That’s what we discovered during our stay at The Cove at Atlantis. Set within the legendary world of Atlantis Paradise Island, the hotel delivers the kind of high-energy adventure children dream about while still feeling like a refined Caribbean retreat for parents. For kids, Atlantis feels almost larger than life. The resort is home to the enormous Aquaventure Water Park, where towering water slides, winding lazy rivers, wave pools, and endless swimming areas stretch across the property. One moment your kids are racing down a slide that shoots through a shark-filled lagoon. The next they are floating through tropical gardens on a river ride. It is the kind of place where children wake up already planning their next adventure. What makes The Cove special, though, is that it offers a sense of calm within all that excitement. The hotel sits slightly apart from the busiest parts of the resort, and the atmosphere feels noticeably more relaxed from the moment you arrive. Unlike many large resorts, The Cove is entirely suites, which makes a big difference when traveling with family. The rooms are spacious and airy, with floor-to-ceiling windows and private balconies overlooking the turquoise waters of the Bahamas. After a full day of slides and swimming, it is a luxury to come back to a space that feels more like a stylish oceanfront apartment than a standard hotel room.
The setting itself also feels more serene. The Cove is nestled along a protected cove between two private white sand beaches, and its dedicated pool and beach area tends to feel much less crowded than some of the larger pools around the resort. Mornings here often begin with a quiet walk along the sand while the ocean shifts between shades of turquoise and deep sapphire. And when parents want a little time to themselves, The Cove Pool offers a chic beach club atmosphere with cabanas, daybeds, and sweeping ocean views. One of the things that makes staying at The Cove so appealing is that while the hotel itself feels calm and refined, you still have full access to everything across Atlantis. Kids can spend their days racing down slides at Aquaventure, exploring the marine habitats throughout the resort, or heading to the lively kids club, Atlantis Kids Adventures. It is easy to move back and forth between the quieter atmosphere of The Cove and the energy of the larger resort, which means everyone gets the kind of vacation they are hoping for.
One of the highlights of our trip was the sea lion encounter at Dolphin Cay. Getting into the water and interacting with these playful animals was unforgettable for the kids and, honestly, just as fun for the adults. The experience is thoughtfully run by marine specialists, and it quickly became one of those travel memories our family will talk about for years. Then there is the food. Atlantis has quietly built a dining scene that goes far beyond what most people expect from a family resort, and many of the best restaurants are just a short walk from The Cove. Our favorite meal of the trip was at Fish by José Andrés, where the menu celebrates the seafood of the surrounding waters with bright, beautifully prepared dishes that feel perfectly suited to the oceanfront setting. It is sophisticated without feeling overly formal, and the kind of place that works just as well for a family dinner as it does for a special
night out. We also loved Ko Sà Wăn , the Thai restaurant by chef Ian Kittichai, where bold flavors and vibrant dishes made for a fun and memorable evening. For a classic steakhouse experience, Seafire Steakhouse delivered exactly what you would hope for. Prime cuts, an excellent wine list, and a level of quality that could easily rival some of the well-known steakhouses in New York.
The hotel’s reputation for refined luxury has not gone unnoticed either. During their 2022 Caribbean tour, William, Prince of Wales, and Catherine, Princess of Wales chose The Cove as their home base in the Bahamas, staying in one of the resort’s expansive penthouse suites overlooking the ocean. In many ways, that perfectly captures what makes The Cove so special. You can spend the morning racing down water slides with your kids. Relax on a quiet stretch of beach in the afternoon. Then sit down for a beautiful dinner overlooking the water. Some vacations are for adults. Some are for kids. At The Cove at Atlantis, it truly feels like you get the best of both.
For more information, visit atlantisbahamas.com
AN EXCERPT FROM EPISODE 6 OF SHARE THE LIFESTYLE, A CITY LIFESTYLE PODCAST
Photographer: Brittany Dawn Short
Creative Director: Jen Birn
Stylist: Stephanie Coultress O’Neill
Location: Hotel Saint Cecilia, Austin, TX
MIKE JOHNSON HAS BUILT HIS LIFE AROUND ONE QUIETLY RADICAL IDEA: THE STANDARD YOU SET PRIVATELY IS THE ONLY ONE THAT MATTERS.
After eight years in the Air Force, a celebrated run on national television, and a health crisis abroad that sent him deep into supply chains and ingredient certifications most founders never touch, the result is Oshun — a luxury ritual brand built on provenance you can trace and integrity you can verify. In an exclusive conversation for the Share the Lifestyle podcast, Mike shares what it actually takes to build something worth putting your name on. Read the highlights below, then scan the QR code for the full episode.
Q: YOU BECAME A FAN FAVORITE ON THE BACHELORETTE AND THEN LEFT THE SPOTLIGHT. YOU MOVED TO MEXICO, LEARNED SPANISH, THEN COSTA RICA, AND BUILT A COMPANY. WHAT DID THAT EXPERIENCE TEACH YOU ABOUT HUMAN BEHAVIOR?
A: “If you’re a good person going in, that shows. If you’re not, that shows too. I also learned that people form this parasocial relationship with you — they assume things about you. When all actuality, different circumstances bring out different parts of who you are. I was on TV trying to find love. The kindness people were showing after felt a bit fake, because they wanted to be a part of something that isn’t who I am individually, but a part of what they saw on TV. And so I had to get away from everybody and everything and the noise.”
“Too many people have prayed for me. So I’ve got to get up and do the walking.”
— Mike Johnson
Q: YOU JOINED THE AIR FORCE RIGHT OUT OF COMMUNITY COLLEGE. WHAT WERE YOU ACTUALLY RUNNING TOWARD?
A: “There was something in me that was saying: I’m not living up to my full potential. I was being a follower. My uncle said, ‘What’s going to make you become an adult the fastest?’ I said, obviously, the military. The Air Force broadened my thought process more than anything. We’re so caught up in our own perception — when you learn to understand different people’s perspectives, it adds to you in so many ways.”
Q: WITH OSHUN, YOU OWN YOUR MANUFACTURING, YOU EMPLOY A CHEMIST, EVERY PRODUCT HAS A BATCH NUMBER TRACEABLE TO ITS ORIGIN DATE. WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO GO THAT DEEP WITH THE BRAND?
A: “The EU bans 1,100 ingredients in personal care products. The U.S. bans nine. That’s my starting point. Oftentimes, it might be the same ingredient, but it comes from a place where it doesn’t have the highest purity. And 60% of what we put on our skin is absorbed. Every product Oshun makes carries a batch number that goes back to the exact day it was created — I can show you every single supplier, the date, the origin. I own more than one part of the supply chain because that’s the only way I can stand behind what’s in the bottle.”
This conversation is just the beginning. Mike goes deeper into why he’s buying land up north, the family in the Philippines who prayed over his factory floor, and what he’d tell every person ready to stop performing and start building. Scan the QR code for the full, exclusive City Lifestyle interview on the Share the Lifestyle podcast.
Another
Spanning
JUNE 2026
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
JUNE 8TH
Debut Book Launch: Mary H.K. Choi on 'Pool House'
The Westport Library, 20 Jesup Rd. 7:00 PM
New York Times best-selling author Mary H.K. Choi presents her debut adult novel, Pool House, joined in conversation by fellow author and Westporter Julie Sarkissian. Choi is an award-winning YA author who now writes for adults as well. Free, register at westportlibrary.org
JUNE 10TH
Cheese Fries & Chili Dips
Fairfield Theater Company, 70 Sanford St., Fairfield | 7:00 PM
Cheese Fries & Chili Dips is a two-person show by Weston native Chris Fuller about chasing your dreams—even when your mind won’t always cooperate. The show tells the story of how Chris tries to build a life, a career, and a sense of stability while navigating bipolar disorder and his dream of making the PGA tour. Tickets, $32, at fairfieldtheatre.org
JUNE 11TH
The Levitt Pavilion, 40 Jesup Rd. 7:00 PM
This bluegrass quintet, famous for selling out venues like Red Rocks Amphitheatre and the Ryman Auditorium, visits Westport. Tickets start at $55. For tickets and more information, visit levittpavilion.com
12TH
The Levitt Pavilion, 40 Jesup Rd. 6:30 PM
The "trance-fusion" pioneers The Disco Biscuits return to Westport with a two-night residency on June 12 and 13. Two-day passes for both shows are available starting at $100, and single-show tickets start at $55. For tickets and more information, visit levittpavilion.com
JUNE 15TH
Birchwood Country Club, 25 Kings Highway South | 7:30 AM
Come play 9 holes and support our community’s iconic theatre, the Westport Country Playhouse. This year, there is also a mahjong and canasta tournament! Golf packages, from $450. Canasta/mahjong, $250. For packages and more info, visit westportplayhouse.org
JUNE 17TH Get Happy!
Westport Country Playhouse, 25 Powers Ct. | 8:00 PM
Judy Garland would turn 104 on June 10, and to celebrate, Jenna Pastuszek is bringing her show, Get Happy! Celebrating 100+ years of Judy Garland, which features songs from The Wizard of Oz, Easter Parade, The Judy Garland Show, and more, to the Westport Country Playhouse on June 17. Tickets, from $40, at westportplayhouse.org
The Levitt Pavilion, 40 Jesup Rd. 8:00 PM
Indie band Lucius, led by Jess Wolfe and Holly Laessig, is known for their "sinuous harmonies and highly-original, pop-noir musical artistry." Tickets start at $75. For tickets and more information, visit levittpavilion.com
The Levitt Pavilion, 40 Jesup Rd. 5:00 PM
Dark Star Orchestra returns to Westport with their Grateful Dead live concert experience, built off the Dead's catalogue. Tickets start at $76. For tickets and more information, visit levittpavilion.com
For years, neurotoxin treatments were quietly associated with women.
In reality, they’ve always belonged to anyone who values a sharp, well-rested appearance.
At Chem Chronos Medical Aesthetics, we specialize in treating men with precision— softening lines without compromising masculinity or expression.
No frozen look. No overcorrection.
Just a more focused, energized version of you.
Discreet consultations now available in Westport.
Refinement, tailored to you.
JUNE 21ST
Mutts Gone Nuts
Westport Country Playhouse, 25 Powers Ct. | 1:00 PM
Mutts Gone Nuts is a high-energy show of incredibly talented dogs and their most impressive tricks. Suitable for the whole family! Tickets, $40, at westportplayhouse.org
JUNE 23RD
Rolling Together Revue Tour: G. Love, Donavon Frankenreiter, Moon Taxi
The Levitt Pavilion, 40 Jesup Rd. 7:00 PM
This trio of jam-band acts visits the Levitt for a special night of music. Don't miss the limited-run "Rolling Together Happy Hour" tickets, which allow you to hang with G. Love, Donavon Frankenreiter, and Moon Taxi for a laid-back VIP experience (only 50 available, $250/each). Regular tickets start at $50. For tickets and more information, visit levittpavilion.com
JUNE 24TH
Son Little
The Levitt Pavilion, 40 Jesup Rd. 7:00 PM
This free show features the soul, blues, folk, hip-hop, and R&B-influenced Son Little. For more information, visit levittpavilion.com
JUNE 27TH Circles Around the Sun
The Levitt Pavilion, 40 Jesup Rd. | 7:00 PM
Another entry in the Levitt Pavilion's free concert series, featuring Los Angeles-based instrumental supergroup Circles Around The Sun. For more information, visit levittpavilion.com Want
This beautifully remodeled, FEMA-compliant home has stunning Long Island Sound views in one of Connecticut’s most coveted waterfront communities.
• 4 bedrooms, 3 full baths
• 2 fireplaces
• Updated eat-in kitchen
• Sun-filled family room opening to large Ipe deck
• Primary suite with spa bath
• Whole-house generator
• Two-car garage & private fenced yard
Veronica Monahan is a luxury property specialist with Compass, ranked in the Top 1% of agents nationwide and Top 100 in Connecticut by sales volume. With 20+ years of Westport expertise and $50 million pending and sold in 2025, she delivers market insight and concierge-level service at every price point. Exceptional service and proven results.
VeronicaBarryMonahan@gmail.com VeronicaMonahanRealtor.com @VeronicaMonahanCTRealtor
Compass
Connecticut Breast Imaging offers the full spectrum of imaging techniques for detecting and diagnosing breast cancer, using the most advanced technology and highly skilled interpretation by a dedicated breast imaging radiologist. Our services include 3D Mammography, Breast Ultrasound, and Breast Biopsy.
ARTICLE BY SARA GAYNES LEVY
Yes, this is our Gentlemen’s Issue, and yes, the majority of Glamsquad’s users (myself included) are women. But the company, which brings on-demand hair and beauty services from vetted industry pros directly to clients, was co-founded by Giovanni Vaccaro, a veteran stylist from New York City’s storied Frederic Fekkai salon. “I got into beauty because I loved helping people build confidence,” he tells Westport Lifestyle. “But as a stylist, I saw there weren’t many opportunities outside of salons or counters for talented artists to grow their careers.” Thus, Glamsquad was born. Since launching in New York, the company has grown into a national platform, now operating in more than 15 cities with over 2,000 beauty professionals and nearly two million services completed. Its expansion into Westport and greater Fairfield County reflects their strategy: follow the client. “Westchester and Fairfield County are vibrant, event-driven communities—from weddings to galas and events—and we saw a clear opportunity to raise the standard for how beauty services are delivered in those moments,” Giovanni tells me. Glamsquad combines the convenience of at-home service with the consistency and quality of top-tier professionals—making it easier than ever to look and feel my best, without leaving home. “Every artist is rigorously vetted, ensuring a reliable, elevated experience each time,” Giovanni says. The next time you need your hair or makeup done, you know where to go.
To book a service, download the Glamsquad app or visit glamsquad.com
