MEET THE 2025 WOMEN OF WESTPORT
LIFE + CULTURE
ALISYN CAMEROTA'S NEXT ACT: THE VETERAN JOURNALIST EMBARKS ON A NEW CHAPTER
PLUS SO MUCH MORE IN OUR ANNUAL WOMEN'S ISSUE
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By blending analysis with creativity, we help you align your financial strategy with your goals, helping ensure decisions are guided by practicality and purpose. With logic as the foundation, we help bring clarity to your financial journey.
LOGIC
Women Who Inspire
May is one of my favorite issues of the year because it’s all about celebrating incredible women-the trailblazers, the leaders, the visionaries, and the everyday heroes who make our community stronger.
On our cover this month, we are thrilled to feature renowned journalist Alisyn Camerota, who made the bold decision to reinvent her career and focus on work that truly matters to her. Her story is one of courage and passion, and we’re lucky to have her right here in Westport.
In that same spirit of boldness and inspiration, we’re proud to introduce the 2025 Women of Westport-12 extraordinary women chosen from nominations submitted by you, our readers. Every year, this competition grows, and every year, selecting the winners becomes even harder. These women are business owners, educators, philanthropists, and changemakers, each making an impact in their own way.
This issue continues to spotlight women creating meaningful change-in our community and beyond. Dr. Christine Gould gives us a closer look at Prenuvo, a whole-body MRI scan that’s changing the landscape of preventative health. Robin Tauck shares the story behind her family’s century-old travel company, Tauck, and how she continues to lead with innovation, passion, and purpose. And for a fresh dose of seasonal inspiration, Marcia Selden Catering serves up a beautiful spring garden menu, along with a recipe that’s perfect for your next gathering.
At Westport Lifestyle, we’re especially proud to be a women-owned, women-run publication. It’s an honor to tell the stories of remarkable women this month and every month. We hope this issue leaves you feeling as inspired as we were in putting it together, and grateful, as we are, to be part of a community that uplifts and empowers one another.
MARISA MACLEAN, PUBLISHER @WESTPORTLIFESTYLE
May 2025
PUBLISHER
Marisa MacLean | marisa.maclean@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Sara Gaynes Levy | sara.gayneslevy@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Robin Selden, Sara Gaynes Levy
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Abby Cole Photography, John Videler, Jerri Graham, Nico Leon Studio, Mindy Briar
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
CTO Ajay Krishnan
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders
AD DESIGNER Mary Albers
LAYOUT DESIGNER Rhiannon Coffman
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Anna Minnick
inside the issue
For Moms, By Moms
The cohosts of the podcast Just 4 Moms make
Alisyn's Next Act
The former CNN anchor is in the midst of an incredible— and inspiring— reinvention.
This garden-inspired menu from Marcia Selden Catering is sure to impress.
city scene
1: Marcia Selden Catering hosted their annual Love Party: Love, Y'all on February 5, 2025. 2: Sarah True of True Event onstage at the Love Party with Elan Artists entertainment. 3: Ron Ben-Israel, center, provided desserts. 4: The Love Party at the Altman Building in N.Y.C. 5: Westport Lifestyle's Marisa MacLean and Sara Gaynes Levy 6: Marcia Selden Catering provided BBQ-themed eats. 7: Marisa MacLean, Robin and Jeffrey Selden of Marcia Selden Catering, and Sarah True.
Photography by Nico Leon
8: Actress Danielle Brooks at Christian Siriano's Fall/Winter 2025 Runway Show. 9: Natasha Bedingfield, Whoopi Goldberg, and Christian Siriano at his Fall/Winter 2025 Runway Show. 10: Katie Holmes and Christian Siriano. 11: Christian Siriano's Fall/Winter 2025 Runway Show at New York Fashion Week. 12: Model Winnie Harlow at Christian Siriano's Fall/Winter 2025 Runway Show. 13: Model Lauren Chan at Christian Siriano's Fall/ Winter 2025 Runway Show. 14: Models backstage at Christian Siriano's Fall/Winter 2025 Runway Show.
Photography by Sara Kerens
15: Kira and Mark Greenfield, founders of the Hearts in Harmony Foundation. 16: Volunteers at the Check Your Beat: Kids EKG event at Connecticut Children's in Westport. 17: Kids got screened via EKG at the event. 18: Shea Greenfield, Kira and Mark's daughter, whose battle with Long QT Syndrome inspired their foundation. 19: Kira and Mark with Jennifer Tooker, Robyn Matloff, Andi Sklar, and Andrea Moore. 21: The event included a fashion show.
ALI TERRY
22: Helen McAlinden, CEO of Homes With Hope, kicks off the 2025 Fashionably Westport fashion show. 23: Co-emcee Alisyn Camerota with Helen McAlinden. The annual fashion show benefits Homes With Hope. 24: Co-emcee Dave Briggs with Brandi Briggs. 25: Steven and Benjamin of Salon Dada. 26: Nikki Stanek, left, and Alyssa Nicolett, second from right, with the Bloom salon team. 27: Backstage at Fashionably Westport. 28: Allan Rothschild and Kitt Shapiro, owner of WEST.
Photography by John Videler
Here at Bloom we specialize in making everyone look and feel their best while providing exceptional service and serving incredible vibes Located in the heart of downtown Westport, you have to experience Bloom for yourself
29: Nicole Ruscio, co-owner of Squeeze, modeled for Faherty. 30: Westport Lifestyle contributor Anna Barnes modeled for Rhone. 31: Megan Schinella, center. 32: Penny Yi, owner of La Beaute Artistry. 33: Kristin Shafer modeled for Milana Bartolotta. 34: Andrew Colabella modeled for Stephen Kempson. 35: Carly Ridloff and Anna Barnes backstage. Photography by John Videler
36: Governor Ned Lamont presented the inaugural Connecticut Governor's Award of Excellence to Keith Richards. 37: Bill Harmer, executive director of the Westport Library, gave Keith Richards a Westport library card. 38: Keith Richards at the Westport Library on March 5, 2025.
39: Executive director of the Westport Library Bill Harmer. 40: The legendary guitarist for the Rolling Stones, Keith Richards, accepting his award. 41: Ann Lamont bestowed a medal on Keith Richards to commemorate the occasion. 42: Governor Ned Lamont, Keith Richards, and Ann Lamont.
Photography by John Videler
Women Leading the Way to Wellness: An Empowering Luncheon for a Healthier Future
Celebrate the power of prevention at the American Cancer Society’s Women Leading the Way to Wellness Luncheon on Thursday, May 8, 2025, at the Hyatt Regency Greenwich. Enjoy an empowering keynote by Dr. Sue Varma, honor incredible leaders Robin Selden, Allison Dadoulis, and the Gulliver Family, and support lifesaving cancer research. Together, we can create a healthier future! Reserve your seat today! womenandwellness.acsgala.org
Sebastian Luxe Travel Launches
Westport's Kate Van Dell has launched Sebastian Luxe Travel, which specializes in luxury ski and family travel in the Alps and beyond—from breathtaking mountain resorts and world-class skiing to après-ski indulgence and seamless, stress-free travel experiences. Visit sebastianluxetravel.com or follow @sebastianluxetravel for insider tips, stunning destinations, and VIP travel planning. For inquiries, contact info@sebastianluxetravel.com
Chef Brian Lewis’ Debuts New OKO-KASE Menu
Chef Brian Lewis debuts a new omakase-inspired menu at both the Westport and Rye, N.Y. locations of OKO. The menu draws on Japanese and American influences and includes items like Popcorn Dashi Lions Mane, Chili-Lime King Crab Hand Roll, and Black Truffle Chawanmushi. The multi-course offering is $200 per person (plus $75 for sake pairings). For reservations (recommended), call Westport at (203) 557-8404 or Rye at (914) 481-8660.
Photography Courtesy of OKO
OK to Delay Hosts Alternative Device Fair
The Westport chapter of OK to Delay an organization encouraging parents to delay smartphone and social media access until after middle school, is hosting an Alternative Device Fair on May 8 from 2 to 6 p.m. in the Kaminsky room at The Westport Library. Representatives from multiple alternative device brands will be on hand to discuss and test out products. For more information, visit @oktodelaywestport on Instagram.
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AMANDA
MARY
KAREN
MICHELLE
DODGE
Connecticut Among First States to Sell Dierks Bentley's ROW 94
Country star Dierks Bentley has launched his first whiskey, ROW 94, and Connecticut is one of the first states where it is available (other states include Tennessee, Kentucky, Florida, Georgia, Colorado, and Arizona). ROW 94 uses only three ingredients, and retails for $39.99 for 750ml. For more information, visit row94whiskey.com
Photography Courtesy of Row 94
The Westport Garden Club's Annual Plant Sale Returns
On Saturday, May 10 at 9:30 a.m., Westport Garden Club members host their annual sale featuring over 1,200 homegrown perennial plants from members’ gardens. Shoppers will also find decorative container gardens, gifts for Mother’s Day, baked goods, special tools and more! Club members are available to offer advice on plant selection and each plant has a tag with care information. Proceeds from the sale support the club’s civic projects. For more information, visit westportgardenclub.org
CULINARY• EVENTS • LIFESTYLE
FOR MOMS, BY MOMS
The cohosts of the podcast Just 4 Moms make motherhood more relatable for their listeners.
ARTICLE BY SARA GAYNES LEVY PHOTOGRAPHY BY JUST 4 MOMS
In a world where the village it proverbially takes to raise a child has gone increasingly digital, Caitlin Houston wanted to create a space to talk about motherhood honestly. So did Megan Schinella, Charlotte Smith, and Kallie Branciforte—in fact, all four Connecticut-based motherhood content creators had
Charlotte, Megan, Kallie, and Caitlin
"It's not just that people are listening to it, but it's resonating with them," says Kallie.
been doing so on their own platforms for years. But Caitlin knew all three women independently, and was the one who suggested they link up for their new podcast Just 4 Moms. “We are all moms, but we all have different niches,” Caitlin tells Westport Lifestyle. “I felt like we would all bring something different to the table, and come up with interesting conversations.”
Since officially launching in January, the foursome have covered topics ranging from family schedules to balancing time among their kids to the challenges of making friends as an adult, bringing their perspectives as moms of kids ranging in age from babies to teenagers. Each of the women takes a turn as the episode’s “main” host, spearheading an authentic conversation that—to the listener— feels like getting
coffee with your girlfriends. “It's kind of fun that way, because a topic that I wanna talk about might not be one that, for example, Charlotte would've picked,” says Kallie. They choose episode topics via a very active group text— Megan says it starts popping off around 4:30 a.m. every day!– with the goal of talking about relatable, honest experiences of motherhood. “When I’m listening to a conversation and there are those moments where I go ‘oh my God, me too’–those are the moments I’ve felt most excited about,” says Charlotte. “It’s not usually the deep, profound moments— though sometimes it is!— but when someone is like ‘have you ever gone to the pediatrician wearing two different shoes?’ That’s when I think ‘I am glad I am not the only one moving through the CONTINUED >
world this way.’ ” They’re the kinds of conversations you didn’t realize you needed to hear. “I’ve learned so much from these women,” says Megan.
With their large social followings (across their individual accounts, they have a combined follower count of more than a million), they also have easy access to tons of real-time feedback about the show. “I was kind of worried," admits Kallie. "[I wondered] do people need another podcast? But I have been so surprised by how many people message me about it. And it's not just that people are listening to it, but it's resonating with them. I think it's a chance for people to see us in a different way, and relate to us as moms.”
New episodes release weekly, on Wednesdays. “These three people have become such an important part of my life,” says Caitlin. “[The podcast] is this creative outlet where I get to think about life in a different way, and present that to someone else to show them that they’re not alone. I feel less alone. I love this community that we’ve built.”
Listen to Just4Moms wherever you get your podcasts, or go to just4momspodcast.com to learn more.
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ARTICLE BY SARA GAYNES LEVY | PHOTOGRAPHY BY ABBY COLE PHOTOGRAPHY
NEXT ACT ALISYN’S
The former CNN anchor is in the midst of an incredible — and inspiring reinvention.
On December 8, 2024, veteran TV journalist (and Westport residentz) Alisyn Camerota made a surprise announcement on her Instagram: it would be her last day as an anchor on CNN, where she had worked for a decade. “It felt like I’d gotten everything that I could out of broadcast journalism,” Alisyn tells Westport Lifestyle. “I felt like I had gotten the brass ring. I would say, if a genie made me the host of the TODAY show which to me was the pinnacle of the career—would I be excited and would I take it? When the answer is not really, then it’s time for something different.”
The announcement was a shock to longtime fans of Alisyn’s work, which included 16 years at Fox News and 10 at CNN. Alisyn had always wanted to be a broadcast journalist, something she wrote about in her 2024 memoir Combat Love. “I was sitting on the sofa at 15 years old, and I saw Phil Donahue running around his studio with a microphone,” she says. “It looked so interesting, so relevant, so exciting, so successful. I was a kid who was looking for all of those things— it was a eureka moment. From that point on, [a career in broadcast journalism] was my North Star.” Alisyn went to American University, where she majored in broadcast journalism and worked at the campus TV station. “From that minute, I had a microphone in my hands,” she says. “I had that thing people describe as a runner’s high— I had such an adrenaline rush from being at a scene and reporting what I was seeing and hearing.” She began her career with Ted Koppel after graduating, then worked for America's Most Wanted , an NBC morning show called REALlife, and local stations in Boston and Providence, R.I. before landing at FOX News Channel. There, she anchored some of FOX News’ highest-rated programs ( America’s News Headquarters, Fox & Friends Weekend ), before leaving for a role at CNN where she worked on some of their top shows as well (CNN New Day, CNN Newsroom, CNN Tonight ). “It was the perfect career path for me,” Alisyn says. “I feel very grateful to have found it so early and to have had such success.”
So what spurred her change of heart? Two days after announcing she was leaving CNN, Alisyn shared more, alongside a makeup-free selfie in her bathrobe. “This is what it looks like when one of life’s earthquakes destroys your foundation,” she wrote. “You rebuild, even while still sifting through the rubble.” It was clear: this was bigger than just a career change. In July of last year, Alisyn’s husband of nearly 23 years, Tim Lewis, passed away two years after being diagnosed with stage four pancreatic cancer. “I had this incredibly wonderful marriage to this super human being. And he passed away in July, which is not anything that anybody my age ever plans for,” she says. “Suddenly I was a solo parent of three teenagers. I didn’t have
CONTINUED >
the playbook for that. And at that same time, I was already looking at broadening my horizons away from traditional broadcast news, because, as I said, it wasn't as soul-satisfying anymore. So I was trying to figure out what that looked like. That felt like time for a reinvention.”
So, that’s what she called it. And that’s where she is now: in the midst of a reinvention. In January, she launched a Substack, which has already amassed more than 6,000 subscribers. “It’s really exciting, because you do get the instantaneous gratification of people tuning in and interacting with you,” she says. “They can tell you what they’d like you to dive deeper on, and you can tell them what is tickling your fancy. I’ve never had that before— I wasn’t able to see that level of engagement on conventional broadcast news. You don’t get that kind of feedback.”
She also loves how being on an independent platform allows her to shed the confines of TV news. “In my evolution, I started to feel that sometimes the interview subjects and viewers do want a connection [with the reporter], and that’s not the rules of broadcast journalism. I was starting to crave peeling back the curtain.” So you might find her musing on what inspires her, or co-anchoring alongside her former colleague (and fellow Westporter) Dave Briggs. “Westport is such a great place with so many inspirational people around,” she says. “There are journalists, authors, businesspeople, women who are starting their own businesses. I have an incredible posse of supportive friends who are not only cheering me on but giving me tons of advice and suggestions, and I love that about Westport.” She says that she and Tim originally moved to Westport because it was “the only town we could agree on” when they were planning to leave N.Y.C. The community ended up being perfect for them, which she says struck her when thinking about a recent event she put on at the Westport Library about the state of journalism with John Berman, a former CNN colleague, Senator Richard Blumenthal, Dave Briggs and Dan Woog. “I was thinking: it is so cool that we did this standing-room only event. Do other towns do this? Or is that just really special for us? ”
Alisyn’s reinvention is far from over (that’s the beauty of a reinvention, of course— it’s ongoing and evolving). She says it will continue to involve growing her Substack, parenting her three kids, being an active member of the Westport community, and looking forward. “I have a lot of gratification for having fulfilled my dream,” she says. “I can tell that 15-year-old girl that she did it.” And she is, in fact, still doing it. “I still get that sparkly feeling whenever I do a live on Substack or post something that people respond to. I’ve been very comforted to know that it still happens whenever that red light goes on.”
Subscribe to Alisyn’s Substack at alisyncamerota.substack.com or follow her @alisyncamerota .
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THE WOMEN of Westport
MEET THE 2025 CLASS.
Inspiring individuals are everywhere in Westport. Look through the pages of this magazine in any given month and you’ll find incredible business owners, philanthropists, parents, experts, artists, and so much more. But once a year we have the great honor to look through your nominations to select the Women of Westport, and the resulting list is, to me at least, the most inspirational issue of the year. This year’s consists of 12 incredible women, who represent the very best of the Westport, Weston, and Wilton communities with their giving and joyful spirits. Get to know the Women of Westport 2025 over these next 12 pages, and if you don’t see your favorite woman of Westport on this list, don’t forget to nominate her in 2026. (You can also email me now: sara.gayneslevy@citylifestyle.com. I will hang on to all nominations, I promise!) Congratulations to these remarkable women. -Sara Gaynes Levy, editor
In 2020, during the COVID lockdowns and isolations, Arvia started to feel called to help the Black community form meaningful more relationships, particularly young professionals. The very next year, she and her family moved from Houston to Westport. The confluence of circumstances— the desire to facilitate connections combined with her newfound proximity to New York City, where her own daughter was already building a career as a young professional–led her to found DOTTIE, a space for young Black people to connect socially and romantically.
BORN TO MAKE CONNECTIONS:
“DOTTIE is named after my mother and grandmother, both named Dorothy. They were great connectors who moved intentionally within their communities. Many of the young people I work with realize they haven’t made getting into a relationship a priority. It brings me so much joy that they trust me, seek my advice, and come to DOTTIE events knowing they may meet their partner. The name DOTTIE also perfectly captures the idea of connecting all the dots in your life - your education, your career, your social life, and your love life.”
LEADING BY EXAMPLE:
“I have been blessed to be married for 28 years, and I understand firsthand the importance of marriage and partnership. I want the same for the next generation. The best dating advice I can give is to start by doing the work on yourself. Be clear about who you are, what you want, and understand your strengths and shortcomings. When you have done that, both your confidence and your ability to be vulnerable become attractive. Secondly, treat dating like it's your job. Be intentional and put yourself in places where you can meet likeminded people, whether through volunteering, professional networks, social gatherings, or community events.”
A TRUE CALLING:
“I absolutely love what I do, and what’s most gratifying is creating space for people to find the love they deserve. One of the things I’m most proud of is how DOTTIE has created space for young Black professionals to openly and vulnerably express their desire for relationships, something I don’t think was happening much before. Now there’s a real dialogue around it, and that shift is powerful!”
ARVIA Few
FOUNDER AND CEO OF DOTTIE, PROFESSIONAL MATCHMAKER, AND SCIENCE-BASED RELATIONSHIP AND DATING COACH
Photo by Jerri Graham.
BRIDGET Flynn
CO-CHAIR OF THE COMPO PLAYGROUND ORGANIZING COMMITTEE AND FOUNDER OF DIVINE ORGANIZING
“Being part of a community has always been important to me,” says Bridget, who was raised in Weston. She learned a volunteer spirit from her parents, who were involved in their local church, and particularly her mom’s work with the Weston Women’s Club. Her own Westport life has centered around helping others, whether it’s through the Westport Young Woman’s League, her role co-chairing the Compo Beach Playground Renovation Project, or her business helping people organize their homes.
A HOMECOMING:
“When I moved back after being away for ten years, I felt a bit like an outsider. As a single woman with no children and a solo business owner, I didn’t know many people. It can be an odd experience to connect to your hometown as an adult. That’s when I joined the Westport Young Woman’s League—I wanted to be part of something bigger. In the WYWL, I found what I was looking for: friendships, the opportunity to give back, and a deeper connection to my community. As a past president, I am honored to stand among the women before me who worked to make Westport a welcoming home for all.”
ORGANIZING IS HEALING:
“I’ve always loved helping people get rid of things; from a young age, I innately understood how our personal environments impact how we feel about ourselves. As an adult, I see that it also impacts our ability to move forward in our lives.”
IMPROVING OUR TOWN:
“The year I was President of the Westport Young Woman’s League, I got involved in the Compo Beach Playground Renovation Project. WYWL has been involved in each iteration of the playground, so it was only natural that I step in to become co-coordinator, along with lifelong Westport resident Samantha Owades. We have been working with the Westport Rotary Club, who gifted the playground to the Town, and with residents who have lent their talents to update the playground’s safety, improve the layout, and make the playground more accessible. I have learned so much about what it takes to bring a community project to life. Seeing so many people come together for Westport’s families has been truly inspiring.”
Photo by Alison Margo Photography.
Facing cancer is a terrifying— and often lonely–place to be. When Sharon was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2021, the former immigration attorney says she found herself “searching for reassurance, hope, and real-life experiences from people who had been through something similar.” So, she became that lifeline for others, getting certified as a functional health medicine coach and walking away from her corporate career. She has been sharing about her healing journey—for mind and body— through public speaking and on her Instagram account, @an.earth.mama, ever since.
AN UNEXPECTED CALLING:
“I’ve always been a private person, so sharing my journey publicly wasn’t something I expected to do. But I realized that if sharing my own experience could help even one person feel less alone, then it was worth stepping outside my comfort zone. Around that time, I was selected to participate in Amplify Voices’ Speaker Training Experience and had the opportunity to give a stage talk, sharing my story with a live audience. This experience was a defining moment for me—it showed me the power of storytelling and how sharing openly could truly make an impact. Support from others who truly understand can make all the difference. If I can provide that for even one person, then I’m fulfilling my purpose.”
A LEGACY OF SERVICE:
“My parents were Soviet immigrants who sacrificed so much to build a better life for us, and they instilled in me that connection and service are what really matter. No matter how little we had, they always found ways to help others. My mom passed away at just 52, and helping others feels like the most intuitive way to honor her.”
HER HOLISTIC APPROACH:
“The biggest shift has been my mindset. I’ve learned to see challenges as opportunities to grow. That doesn’t mean I don’t struggle. But when I find myself in a dark place, I shift my focus to what is meaningful and good in my life. Before cancer, I saw health mostly through a physical lens—diet, exercise, the basics. Now, I understand that true wellness comes from alignment in mind, body, and spirit.”
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SHARON Finkel
BOARD-CERTIFIED FUNCTIONAL MEDICINE HEALTH COACH AND BREAST CANCER SURVIVOR
Photo by Abby Cole Photography.
RACHEL Musa
FOUNDER OF DOG FRIENDLY FINDS CT
When Rachel met her now-husband, he had a dog named Biggie, then 12. It was Rachel’s first time caring for a pooch— growing up, her father was allergic, so they never had one— but she and Biggie bonded immediately. Though Biggie has since sadly passed away, Rachel and her husband now have three dogs: schnoodle Weezy, Yorkie mix Usher, and and Schnauzer/Dachshund mix Nelly. Nearly three years ago, Rachel and her friends were looking for more dog-friendly places in Connecticut. Rachel started to keep track of her finds on an Instagram account, @dog_friendly_finds_ct, which has grown to more than 24,000 followers.
HELPING FELLOW DOG LOVERS:
“I started the account to document where I was taking my crew. It was really meant as a place for me to keep track of our adventures. From there, my brother helped me design the website, which is home to 37 lists that are in categories (breweries, restaurants, shopping, etc.) and have restrictions listed by location (if dogs are allowed inside, weight restrictions, etc.). I wanted to make a user-friendly guide to make it easier for all dog parents to bring their fur babies along. I never dreamed that it would grow to what it is today.”
LABORS OF LOVE:
“All three of our dogs love attention, especially Weezy. Everywhere we go, he thinks everyone is there for him. He would be so happy to know he has so many fur-iends following along on our journeys. My favorite feedback is hearing that a family went on an outing we recommended and had an amazing time. I’m honestly just so happy that Dog Friendly Finds is helpful for others.”
FINDING FOREVER HOMES:
“I have learned so much about rescues and shelters, and became involved with New England Puppy Rescue as a volunteer and foster. I also help out with FETCH Rescue. Our family has fostered over 30 dogs in the last year and a half. It is so rewarding being the first safe, loving home these puppies have, and watching them start to play and break out of their shells. All dogs deserve a loving and safe home.”
Photo by Paw Print Studio.
Mary has a (much-deserved) reputation as a mental health innovator. She founded LIFT Wellness Group, a Westport-headquartered behavioral health specialty group in 2016, and launched LiftWell Health IOP/PHP in 2024. She was among the first to earn certification in systemic schoolbased behavioral health intervention services in the U.S. She is a certified eating disorder specialist, and won the 2023 Women’s Innovator Award through Westfair Business. “When founding LIFT, many didn’t understand what I was doing,” Mary says. “The concept of a multi-disciplinary specialty group to fulfill the physical, psychological, dietary, and behavioral needs of families across a continuum of care did not exist yet. Now, people [see] the value of our cohesive and integrative treatment model.”
A DYNAMIC APPROACH:
“The mental health system in this country has come a long way over the past fifty years, and the sentiment [over that time] is clear: we cannot put individuals with mental health disorders in a bubble. We need to give them tools and support to achieve real-life recovery, with peer integration. I’m pleased to be building programs that are on the forefront of advancing behavioral health care into the future, like my partial hospitalization behavioral health day programs, where patients receive residential-caliber mental health services in comfortable, least restrictive environments.”
SELF-CARE BY CARING FOR OTHERS:
“Believe it or not, my work is my therapy. I have found purpose, and my place in this world through this work. Many of my richest friendships have been discovered through my professional life. I’m a big proponent of discovering meaning through service, and this is something we instill in our patients as well. Everyone has a calling, and when we find and execute that well, we enter into a state of flow and alignment that, for me, is self-care.”
NATIONAL IMPACT, LOCAL ROOTS:
“I am a lifelong local, and have had the joy of watching children I once treated grow up and become helping professionals themselves. Westport has embraced LIFT and LiftWell because we understand that our community values quality. I’m honored to be in a community of peers contributing substance, with style.”
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MARY Dobson
MA, LMFT, CEDS, CSTS, PSYCHOTHERAPIST AND FOUNDER/CEO OF LIFT WELLNESS GROUP AND LIFTWELL HEALTH
Photo by Jen Goldberg.
BECCA Zipkin
POLICY DIRECTOR AT WORLD WITHOUT EXPLOITATION, AND CO-FOUNDER, OK TO DELAY WESTPORT
Becca began her legal career as a special victims prosecutor (yes, like on Law & Order: SVU ) while living in Brooklyn. In 2020, around the time she and her family moved from N.Y.C. to Westport, she transitioned to her current role at World Without Exploitation (WorldWE), a nonprofit advocacy organization dedicated to combating sex trafficking. Becca advocates for laws on the state and federal level that protect survivors of sex trafficking and exploitation. In addition, she is one of the founding members of the Westport chapter of OK to Delay, an organization encouraging parents to delay smartphone and social media access until after middle school.
INSPIRED BY THOSE SHE ADVOCATES FOR:
“I work closely with survivors of the sex trade. They are all so brave, and have been instrumental in advocating for changes to law and policy. Working with them is the most gratifying part of my work.”
A BETTER FUTURE:
“As an attorney working on issues around trafficking and exploitation, the vast majority of what I see has a nexus to the Internet. Young people are often recruited or groomed online. I realized that most other parents do not know what is out there because it is not part of their daily lives. I connected with Erika Brunwasser about OK to Delay, which already existed in neighboring Fairfield County towns, and we brought on our third town lead Nicole Glick to begin a chapter here in Westport. It's on us as parents to preserve childhood for our children.”
THE SPECIALNESS OF OUR COMMUNITY:
“Spending time with my husband Adam and my kids in Westport brings me so much joy. I absolutely love the people here—and I have to mention the women! I have made so many wonderful friends—women with whom I co-parent, travel, laugh with, and learn from. I feel so lucky. Living in Westport has been my self-care. Taking a walk at Compo Beach with a friend or with my dog Izzy is the best way to improve my mood. I hope to continue to give back to our community that has given me so much.”
Photo by Lynn Savarese.
Even as a kid, Liz was interested in beauty— she remembers hanging out at the pool in Pennsylvania where she grew up and charging her friends $10 to do their nails poolside. But about 11 years ago, she went all-in and became an aesthetician, and nearly three years ago she opened her Westport brow, lash, waxing, spray tan, and makeup salon Feather and Fringe.
BEAUTY IS POWERFUL:
“When I set out to open my own business, my mission was always to make people feel like their best selves. There’s so much pressure for people in this world. I want to give our customers one space where they can feel beautiful whatever form they’re in.”
GIVING BACK:
“Around the time I became an aesthetician, I had to restart my life. I was very fortunate to have a lot of people willing to help me, so I’m big on giving back. I love to give people a chance because everyone deserves it and everyone needs one! I’ve worked with local businesses, offering them a space to promote their work and their missions, done an adoption event with FETCH Dog Rescue, and we hosted a beauty event where we taught and did makeup for more than 30 women and teens from the Center for Family Justice. It was the most moving event.”
AN INCLUSIVE WORKPLACE:
“The environment I strive for is one where everyone can be themselves. I love what I do, and the people I work with, and my clients. I try and create that for my employees so they radiate that same feeling for their clients, and everyone leaves happy and fulfilled.”
LIZ McKay
OWNER, FEATHER & FRINGE
Photo by Abby Cole Photography.
JOANNA R. Manfro
VICE PRESIDENT OF SHOPPING CENTERS AT MATTHEWS REIS™
Photo by Abby Cole Photography.
There’s no better word to describe Joanna than dynamo. In her corporate real estate career, she specializes in shopping centers, and has closed more than $2.1 billion in deals— $100 million in Westport alone—in just the last year. She was named a 2024 rising star by her company, Matthews, but it’s pretty clear: Joanna has risen.
RAISED WITH A WORK ETHIC:
“At 13, [my mother] helped me create a resume from jobs I took on from family and friends, then dropped me off at an office in White Plains, instructing me to hand it to every law firm. That led to my first real job in real estate, working after-school, weekends, and summers filing and preparing closing documents. That exposure began my interest in the principal ownership side of real estate. I spent the last year of college working for a Real Estate Investment Trust (REIT) in Greenwich, which led to a 15-year journey across three REITs. These experiences instilled invaluable resilience and an understanding of market adaptability. I've learned that success hinges on understanding economic cycles and making informed decisions in uncertain times.
ALWAYS PUSHING FORWARD:
"If I could go back and give my younger self some advice, I'd say: 'Don't be afraid to step outside your comfort zone. Build real relationships with people you trust and who can help you along the way. And don't sweat the setbacks – they're just part of the journey. Find people who inspire you and learn from them, and don't forget to pay it forward by supporting other women. We're stronger together. And never be afraid to ask questions – that's how you learn and grow.'"
A STRONG EXAMPLE:
“I try to make my kids see that loving your work leads to success. It’s an opportunity to demonstrate to the next generation, particularly young women, that they have a place in what has historically been a male-dominated industry. It’s about showing that success is achievable through hard work, strategic thinking, and a willingness to take calculated risks. If my journey can inspire even one young woman to pursue a career in commercial real estate, then that’s a legacy worth having.”
There isn’t always glory in becoming an early childhood educator. But there should be— it’s a challenging, essential job that shapes our community’s children in vital and important ways. And Tara is exceptional among them: as one of her nominators put it, “she gets up every day to change the life of a child in this community.”
A JOYFUL CALLING:
“I originally went to school for criminal justice, but I began working at the preschool my son attended. It didn’t take long to realize the joy I had working with children, and feel that ‘I really love my job’ feeling. Having such an impact on their lives, even at such a young age— building trust, nurturing curiosity, fostering a love for learning— is the most rewarding job.”
LOVE FOR THE COMMUNITY:
“We moved to Westport two years ago. My favorite thing about raising my children in Westport is the opportunity for growth. The ability to have access to so many programs, both in and out of school. For my children to know that there are tools and resources to lead to their future, all while around some amazing families.”
A GIVING HEART:
“When I was young, I did pageants, and was crowned Olympic Miss Ambassador for Connecticut when I was six. I loved doing the fundraising, and at the end when the money was raised, standing with a check bigger than me and seeing all the smiles. I learned from a young age the importance of making a difference. I still love giving back to the community. I donate custom birthday packages to schools for fundraising, with personalized items (t-shirts, tumblers, tote bags), and was featured on News Channel 8 for the Easter baskets we donated. I don’t think there is ever a point where we can give back too much.”
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TARA Welch PRESCHOOL TEACHER
AMBAR Zaatar
FOUNDER AND OWNER, WILD BLUEBERRY
After having twins in 2020, Weston-based Ambar found herself—like many parents—frustrated with the clothing options for young kids. “I realized how expensive it is to constantly buy clothes, especially knowing they’ll outgrow everything so fast,” she says. “Whenever I shopped secondhand, I often felt uninspired and overwhelmed by cluttered racks filled with fast fashion. But organic and eco-friendly options were pricey and hard to justify.” So the creative-minded Ambar ended up opening her own children’s boutique, Wild Blueberry in Redding, which sells a mix of new and pre-loved pieces “without the boutique price tag.”
A CREATIVE CAREER:
“I started my career as a visual merchandiser with brands like Jack Spade, Theory, and Casper. After having children, I found it challenging to return to the corporate world, but still craved a creative outlet. I began doing pop-ups and markets, which led me to Ridgefield Vintage & Thrift. That’s where I connected with Lauryn Soden of Stems + Co. After meeting for coffee, we decided to take a leap together on a space she found in Georgetown, leading me to where I am today: opening my own shop, a lifelong dream.”
LEADING WITH GRACE:
“Over time, I’ve realized that stressing over what I can’t control isn’t worth the energy. I try to focus on what I can do without putting too much pressure on timing. I’ve learned to work at a pace that makes sense for me—especially with three young kids! I also have an amazing support system of family and friends, and I wouldn’t be where I am without each and every one of them.”
STYLE IS AGELESS:
“While my own wardrobe isn’t overwhelmingly colorful, I love incorporating color and patterns into children's looks! I usually size up so pieces last longer, and mixing patterns is a fun way to keep the style playful while still feeling effortlessly cool. I’m especially drawn to novelty sweatshirts and jumpsuits (I also have a hard time resisting a chunky corduroy), often building outfits around them. I really enjoy the hunt [for inventory] and putting all the pieces together to tell a story, hopefully inspiring people to shop pre-loved for the little ones in their lives.”
Photo by Tory Williams.
Ashley describes herself as someone who has always loved learning, from her own time in the Westport Public Schools to her first teaching job in the Bridgeport school system. “Growing up in Westport meant having access to incredible educational and extracurricular opportunities,” she says. “As I got older, I became acutely aware that just a few miles away, many children were growing up with vastly different opportunities.” She transitioned from teaching to working full-time with Horizons Sacred Heart University in 2019, where she helps the nonprofit achieve their goals of “advancing educational equity in Bridgeport by creating opportunities outside of school that inspire the joy in learning, prepare students for high school, and provide strong bridges to post-secondary success.”
A WHOLE-CHILD APPROACH:
“Having worked in classrooms and seen firsthand how systemic inequities limit opportunities for students, I was drawn to Horizons because it does more than address summer learning loss; it creates a village of support for over 100 families and more than 300 children from Bridgeport. What keeps me committed to Horizons is the power of this community—our students, families, educators, and supporters—who reimagine what’s possible in education. Everyday, I see the direct impact of our work—children discovering their strengths, families feeling empowered, and communities growing stronger together. Horizons is more than a program; it’s a movement. I am honored to be a part of it.”
LIFELONG BONDS:
“As an educator, you hope to plant seeds of inspiration, but you don’t always get to see them bloom. This is what makes Horizons so special. Our community enrolls children as early as pre-K and supports them and their families for over nine years.”
A GIVING SPIRIT:
“I credit my family for instilling in me a deep sense of responsibility toward others. I grew up surrounded by love and the example of hard work. My parents showed me that true commitment is about lifting up those around you. I learned that community is about showing up—not just when it’s convenient, but when it’s needed most. That lesson has shaped everything I do, from my work in education to my dedication to building a more united and stronger Fairfield County.”
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ASHLEY Freeman
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HORIZONS SACRED HEART UNIVERSITY
Ashley Freeman poses with a mural of Bridgeport, created by Horizons scholars last summer as part of an annual tradition. By Alicia Cobb.
KIRA Greenfield
CO-FOUNDER, HEARTS IN HARMONY FOUNDATION
Photo by Fred Marcus Studio.
The moment Kira and her husband Mark welcomed their second child, Shea, things changed forever. Shea was born with Long QT syndrome, a life-threatening condition in which the heart takes too long to recharge between beats. “The first eight months of Shea’s life were a blur as we tried to figure out how to navigate our new normal, which was filled with hurdles and fear that we could (and still can) lose Shea at any moment,” Kira says. The Greenfields eventually connected with a renowned doctor at the Mayo Clinic, Dr. Michael Ackerman, and were inspired to launch the Hearts In Harmony Foundation, which raises funds for his lab’s research to treat and cure Long QT Syndrome.
A FAMILY OF LIGHT THROUGH DARKNESS:
“My mom, my best friend, taught me ‘it is what we make of it’ rather than ‘it is what it is.’ It’s not easy to always be positive; there are days when it’s so hard and scary. But we try to dig deep and find positivity. Having a partner like Mark who is grounded in positivity helps me so much. He pushes me to see the light whenever possible.”
MAKING A DIFFERENCE:
“[After Shea’s diagnosis], I was filled with emotions—fear, sadness, anger, frustration. I knew I could use these feelings towards making a difference for Shea and many others. We have the power to change the landscape for Long QT Syndrome as the first non-profit focused on finding new therapies and, ultimately, a cure. This work is emotional, but knowing the difference we can make helps me look beyond the day-to-day.”
A VILLAGE OF SUPPORT:
“Shea has taught us so much: never take a moment for granted, celebrate every single thing possible, surround yourself with people who lift you up. I’ve learned how important our friends and family are—without their support, I wouldn’t be able to navigate life. Being there for them is just as important, and no matter what, I always have bandwidth for anything they have going on. I make sure to remind them of that. I always say I don’t believe in comparative problems. Real friendship is about feeling comfortable sharing it all!”
2480 BLACK ROCK TPKE (203) 576-1455
WESTPORT - NOW OPEN! 1252 POST ROAD EAST
SPRINGTIME A PERFECT
SPREAD
This garden-inspired menu from Marcia Selden Catering is sure to impress.
ARTICLE BY ROBIN SELDEN | PHOTOGRAPHY BY NICO LEON PHOTOGRAPHY
Spring is the season of renewal, color, and fresh flavors. As the sun lingers longer and flowers start to bloom, it’s the perfect time to gather friends and family for a garden-inspired get together. The ideal springtime spread should not only taste delicious, but look beautiful too. Let’s dive into a combination of fresh mini crudité pots, garden focaccia, and a refreshing Aperol Spritz (my absolute fave) to tie all that sunshine-y goodness together.
BLOOMING CRUDITÉ POTS
Nothing captures springtime like fresh veggies, and serving them in mini melamine flowerpots is a fun and eye-catching way to elevate your presentation. These "potted snacks" are as practical as they are pretty, combining fresh, crisp veggies with flavorful dips hidden at the base of each pot. Be creative and use tzatziki, or a variety of hummus flavors, or your favorite dip. (I love our Lemon Tarragon dip.) These little edible gardens are not only beautiful, but also easy for guests to grab and enjoy as they mingle.
GARDEN FOCACCIA
Nothing fills your home with warmth and comfort quite like freshly baked bread. A homemade focaccia is a perfect canvas for creative expression and spring’s colorful produce makes it truly shine.
FOCACCIA DOUGH
• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 2 teaspoons sugar
• 2 1/4 teaspoons (one packet) active dry yeast
• 1 3/4 cups warm water
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil (plus more for brushing)
TOPPINGS TO CREATE YOUR "GARDEN"
• Red onion slices for petals
• Colorful mini bell peppers, thinly sliced
• Kalamata and green olives, for accents
• Red and yellow grape tomatoes, halved
• Fresh rosemary, thyme, or parsley
INSTRUCTIONS
1. Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, mix warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy. Stir in flour, salt, and olive oil to form a sticky dough. Cover and let rise in a warm spot for 1-2 hours, until doubled in size.
2. Shape the Dough: Transfer the dough to a well-oiled baking sheet. Stretch it out with your fingers, dimpling the surface with your fingers as you go.
3. Create Your Garden: Now the fun begins! Use your prepared vegetables to design a “garden” scene. Red onion slices become flowers, pepper slices can form petals, and olives or grape tomatoes make perfect flower centers. Herbs double as delicate greenery.
4. Bake to Perfection: Brush the entire surface generously with olive oil, sprinkle with Maldon sea salt, and bake at 425°F for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
This beautiful bread is almost too pretty to eat, it’s truly food art. The combination of fluffy focaccia with the savory punch of roasted veggies and herbs is simply irresistible, especially when eaten warm right out of the oven.
APEROL SPRITZ: THE ULTIMATE SPRINGTIME SIP
What’s a spring gathering without a refreshing cocktail? An Aperol Spritz is a bright and bubbly drink to complement your spread. Its signature orange hue mirrors the vibrant and colorful palette of your crudité & focaccia garden. They are so incredibly refreshing and really make me think of sunshine; So, what better drink could you possibly enjoy for a springtime get together than sunshine in a glass?
INGREDIENTS
• Ice cubes
• 3 parts Prosecco
• 2 parts Aperol
• 1 part soda water
• Orange slices for garnish
INSTRUCTIONS
1. Fill a glass with ice. Pour in 3 parts Prosecco, followed by 2 parts Aperol. Top with a splash of soda water and stir. Garnish with a fresh orange slice.
2. The result is a bright cocktail that embodies spring’s sunny energy!
BRINGING IT ALL TOGETHER
Creating a perfect springtime spread is about more than just food; it’s an experience. The process of designing your focaccia garden can be super fun and rewarding. As you carefully arrange those veggie blossoms, you’re engaging in a creative moment that turns your table into a spring garden masterpiece in full bloom. When your guests arrive, they’ll be greeted by the yummy scent of freshly baked bread—subliminally telling them that they need to eat a piece! Another super fun idea would be to make it an interactive experience where your guests help to decorate the focaccia, and then bake to enjoy together just 25 minutes later. Picture the fun: your guests arrive, grab a Spritz, gather their ingredients, roll up their sleeves, and embrace the joy of creating something beautiful together.
Cheers to delicious memories made around the table! We affectionately call it “playing with your food.”
Flowers by: Stems & Co. – Lauryn Soden
Calligraphy/Illustration-Menu by: Erica Jean Calligraphy
.
l p y o u a c h i e v e y o u r r e a l e s t a t e g o a l s .
Photo by Alexandra Szebenyik.
Christine Gould, M.D., of All About You Medical Spa, wants her patients to know all they can about their health.
KNOWLEDGE IS POWER
Christine Gould, M.D., opened All About You Medical Spa eleven years ago, after spending 25 years working in emergency medicine. She knows the importance of staying ahead of the latest trends, and on the cutting edge of medical aesthetic technology. At her office in Fairfield, she offers her patients the top lasers and medical procedures on the market, and guides patients through complexities like balancing their hormones so they can look and feel their best. A recent, exciting addition to her toolbox has been Prenuvo, the advanced whole body MRI screening. All About You Medical Spa shared more about the new offering with Westport Lifestyle
WESTPORT LIFESTYLE: HOW IS A PRENUVO MACHINE DIFFERENT FROM A TRADITIONAL MRI?
All About You Medical Spa: The Prenuvo MRI offers a technologically advanced physical with a spa-like experience. The MRI is the same as every other MRI people have had, but the calming office and roomier tube (and in-machine Netflix shows you can watch!) help you stay peaceful while gaining peace of mind and taking control of your health like never before. There is no harmful radiation or contrast, and the Prenuvo whole body MRI scan can screen for stage 1 tumors, brain aneurysms, cysts, fatty liver disease, and spinal degeneration.
hristine Gould. Photo by Mindy
WL: WHAT ARE SOME REASONS PATIENTS MIGHT WANT TO CONSIDER SCHEDULING AN APPOINTMENT FOR THE PRENUVO?
AAYMS: The Prenuvo scan gives you the peace of mind that, if something is off, you're more likely to catch it early. That way you can focus on moving forward, in good health.
WL: WHAT CAN PATIENTS EXPECT IF THEY BOOK A PRENUVO SCAN?
AAYMS: The machine is in an office in N.Y.C., and Dr. Gould will share the results. The cost of the full body scan is $2499, and it takes about an hour.
WL: HOW DOES THE PRENUVO SCAN COMPLEMENT THE OTHER SERVICES THAT AAYMS OFFERS?
AAYMS: The offering is a win/win for our patients: detect something early or get powerful peace of mind. Dr. Gould is interested in the whole person, from the inside out. With our hormone balancing program, weight management options, and now the Prenuvo MRI scan, our patients are given a complete view of what's going on inside their body and how their lifestyle may be affecting their overall health.
Call All About You Medical Spa at 203292-5559 to hear more details, or visit all-about-you-med-spa.com
Unlike traditional MRIs, seen here, Prenuvos offer a larger tube and in-machine Netflix.
“Travel Is a Force for Good”
WESTPORT’S
ROBIN TAUCK REFLECTS ON HER STORIED CAREER AND LEGACY IN THE TRAVEL INDUSTRY.
ARTICLE BY SARA GAYNES LEVY
Photo by John Videler.
In Jodhpur, Rajasthan, India The Blue City.
For someone who has traveled to 100 countries, it may come as a surprise to learn that Robin Tauck and her siblings grew up taking the same types of vacations as many of their fellow families in Westport, Weston, and Wilton. Though Robin’s grandfather, Arthur Tauck Sr., founded one of the world’s premiere global travel companies in 1925, Tauck Tours, Robin’s family mostly went skiing and sailing around the Northeast during her childhood. “We went to Vermont and Maine, and spent our weekends sailing at Cedar Point Yacht Club with other kids from Westport,” Robin tells Westport Lifestyle. It actually wasn’t until her senior year at Wilton High School that she first left the country for any extended period— not on one of her own family’s tours, but through a program called World Learning that allowed her to study abroad in Mexico. “It was life-changing,” she says.
In fact, it is what set her on the course she is still on today. Robin is a co-owner, steward, and former President & CEO of Tauck Inc., the 100-year old travel company first started by her grandfather, now with programs in 70 countries on all seven continents. After college, her desire to see and learn more about the world, coupled with her sailing knowledge from growing up, inspired her to build and sail a 39-foot Freya Sailboat nearly 9,000 miles through 32 countries—from San Francisco all the way back to Cedar Point Yacht Club in Westport. “[That experience] was very instrumental in my desire to return to the family business,” she says. “In many ways, it may have led to the development of our small-ship cruising around the world.”
As a company, Tauck offers so much— from land tours to river cruises to family journeys and more— but for Robin, travel all comes back to one thing. “I believe that travel is such a force for good,” she says. “Culturally immersive travel changes your life. It creates connections. I believe that it builds bridges, among societies and among cultures, and that is needed now more than ever.”
This belief inspired many of Robin’s philanthropic initiatives, which have become a fundamental part of her life. During Robin’s generation, as Tauck was rapidly expanding around the globe, she launched a corporate program called World of Giving. “It was innovative at the time to help employees and clients to join in and improve treasured places of travel in the U.S. and around the world,” she says. This work led to President George W. Bush bestowing the nation’s highest “Presidential Preserve America Award” in the Oval Office to Robin and her father for their company’s efforts. “To know our family company had really made a difference in using travel as a force for good was one of the highlights of my career,” she says. In 2010, under Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, Robin was asked to join the U.S. World Heritage Commission, a part of the State Department, to advance the more than 1200 UNESCO World Heritage sites designated as our world’s most important places.
Realizing "we can all make a difference between generations with new ideas," Robin started her own family foundation in 2007, the TRIP Foundation, focusing on cross-cultural dialogue and sustainability.
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”I love coming back to our community and all our incredible shared places.”
Over the last 17 years, they have supported local, national, and international projects— some right here in southwestern Connecticut. One example is IRIS of New Haven, which helps resettle refugees in new employment, schools, and communities. The foundation also has supported the culture of Connecticut oystering and published a book on the original history of Westport and the Sherwood Mill Pond, with all book profits benefitting “Soundwaters.” In June 2025, the Norwalk Arts Space will highlight some of our area’s shared offshore resources—Pecks Ledge Lighthouse and the history of Cockenoe and the Norwalk Islands—thanks to support from Robin’s foundation. “Globally, we support new exhibits such as at the 400-year Chateau de Versailles, the San Francisco Museum’s reformed Native American wing, and the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s 'Divine Egypt' (opening in October),” she says. The foundation also unveiled its new name: The CORA Foundation, reflecting its commitment to cultural diversity; and embracing new leaders on a more global scale.
Another of Robin’s great joys, of course, is traveling with her family. “Here, one can create an environment where two or three generations can truly connect together,” she says. She cites a Tauck African safari she took to Kenya and Tanzania with her then-teenagers as an example that was profound for all ages: “It was so beautiful. It had nature, it was
cross-cultural, we learned about wildlife endangerment and citizen advocacy— it was really special.” Since then, she and her daughter have traveled throughout the Middle East, India, MENA, and Gulf States, including her representing U.S. Tourism at the “Opening of Saudi Arabia” in 2019.
Even with all her amazing travels, Robin still spends plenty of time in her beloved Westport. “I love coming back to our special community, especially the rivers and waterways and all our incredible shared places –the Y, MoCA, the Westport Museum, our Library, the Levitt Pavilion, our historic Country Playhouse, and our fabulous 20 Westport parks and beaches,” she says.
It’s part of why Westport is such a perfect fit for Robin, and their Connecticut-based company. “I come from a hardworking family with New England roots; and today, at 100 years, it’s brought us humble feelings and gratitude to see how local and global employees, partners, and guests can create enriching experiences that also work for the greater good,” she says. “I’m now in a position with my siblings and next generations of stewarding a bright future. And our company is now led by a Connecticut woman, CEO Jennifer Tombaugh, who is leading us into the next century.”
“We stand for shared enrichment,” she says. “Not only for the traveler, but for proactively contributing to the communities where we live and where we visit around the world.”
“Culturally immersive travel changes lives. It creates connections. I believe that it builds bridges, among societies and among cultures, and that is needed now more than ever.”
Photo by John Videler.
Branding & Interiors Photographer abbycolephotography com
Charging Ahead
In 1953, Porsche shocked the racing world with the giant-killing 550 Spyder. Nearly seven decades later, Porsche continues to set new standards in performance in every category, even electric vehicles, with their groundbreaking Taycan and all-new Macan EV.
At Speedsport Tuning/SST Auto, we understand the passions and interests that drive Porschephiles are as diverse as the cars themselves. Over the past 30 years, we’ve grown from a small Porsche specialty shop to a full service, independent company serving Porsche street, competition and vintage enthusiasts nationwide. We pride ourselves on being able to handle the needs of any vehicle that rolls into our 32,000 square foot facility.
Our vintage department is globally recognized and trusted to care for some of the world’s most coveted and valuable Porsches. We have the expertise and the
specialized tools to handle even the most challenging projects, including complete rebuilds of Fuhrmann’s legendary 4-cam engines.
Modern Porsches receive unmatched attention-todetail in our street department as our factory-trained staff use the latest tools to diagnose, repair and enhance the finest vehicles from Stuttgart.
With the growth of electric and hybrid vehicles, we’ve invested in the diagnostic equipment and advanced training to handle any vehicle and any service need that rolls into our facility. We’ve even installed EV chargers in our parking lot for your convenience.
We don’t know what tomorrow will bring, but you can rest assured…no matter which Porsche you drive, or how you drive it, we’ll keep you charging ahead.
ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
From Stem To Vase:
TRANSFORMING FLORALS INTO ART
Flowers have a rich history of symbolic meanings.
As far back as the 19th century, they were used to convey secret messages. Stories throughout history recount how flowers were used to send hidden messages between people. French publishers began producing flower dictionaries that cataloged the many floral codes that had been gathered over time. Some of these meanings were linked to the flower’s root name, often derived from mythology, while others were drawn from the flowers themselves. The colors, medicinal properties, and even the superstitions
associated with these flowers all contributed to the creation of this secret language.
In addition to their symbolic significance, flowers bring natural beauty to any interior, enhancing spaces with their color, texture, and mood-boosting qualities. Floral arrangements not only create a cozy atmosphere but also infuse a room with personality, elevating the overall ambiance. There are multiple ways to creatively integrate florals into your home, and whether using fresh or artificial flowers, creative displays can make quite the statement piece.
Florals and Fruit
“Not only will the flowers’ fragrance fill the air, but the citrus notes from the fruit will add a refreshing scent.”
Add an extra burst of color and texture to your floral arrangement by layering fruit around the edges of your vase. To achieve this, place a smaller vase inside a larger one, ensuring the flowers stay contained in the inner vase to preserve their shape. Fill the surrounding space with water and then arrange sliced fruit along the vase’s outer sides. For a fresh touch, add ice cubes to keetp the fruit looking vibrant longer and to hold them in place. Not only will the flowers’ fragrance fill the air, but the citrus notes from the fruit will add a refreshing scent.
CONTINUED >
Flower Frogs
Hanging Florals
For a dramatic effect, try creating a hanging floral display. Floral cones are available for this style, or you can craft your own for a more personalized, organic look. The contrast between longstemmed white flowers and a dark wall creates a striking visual impact.
No matter how you choose to display them, flowers are a wonderful addition to any room. They boost mood, improve air quality, spark creativity, and bring a decorative charm to any space.
Using a frog to display flowers creates a minimalist yet elegant look that highlights the individuality of each bloom. It helps the stems stay in place. To set it up, place the frog on your chosen display base, whether it’s a vase, bowl, platter, or any container you prefer. Then, simply insert the flower stems by gently pressing them into the prongs. Tip: Flowers with sturdy stems and a lighter top work best in a frog, as delicate blooms tend to lose their shape more quickly.
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
MAY 1ST
Ailey II – The Next Generation of Dance
Westport Country Playhouse, 25 Powers Ct. | 7:00 PM
The Ailey II - The Next Generation of Dance company hails from the renowned Alvin Ailey school of dance, featuring twelve talented modern dancers performing under the vision of Artistic Director Francesca Harper. Tickets, from $75, at westportplayhouse.org
MAY 3RD
Pete the Cat the Musical Westport Country Playhouse, 25 Powers Ct. | 1:00 PM
A colorful show for children ages preK through third grade featuring the beloved book character and his friends. A TheaterWorksUSA Production. Also at 4 p.m. Tickets, $30, at westportplayhouse.org
MAY 8TH
Alternative Device Fair
Westport Library, 20 Jesup Rd. | 2:00 PM
The Westport chapter of OK to Delay, an organization encouraging parents to delay smartphone and social media access until after middle school, is hosting an Alternative Device Fair in the Kaminsky room at The Westport Library from 2 until 6 p.m. Representatives from multiple alternative device brands will be on hand to discuss and test out products.
MAY 19TH
An Evening with David Sedaris
Westport Country Playhouse, 25 Powers Ct. | 7:00 PM
Renowned humorist David Sedaris (author of Me Talk Pretty One Day, Dress Your Family in Corduroy and Denim, and many others) will appear on stage at the Playhouse for a 60-minute reading followed by a 20-30-minute audience Q&A. He will also be signing books pre- and postshow, and books will be available onsite to purchase. Tickets, $95, at westportplayhouse.org
D I D Y O U K N O W ?
The Beauty Industry creates 877 pounds of waste every single minute.
Much of that is Aluminum Foil used for highlighting Hair. Aluminum Foil heats up, burns, has a brassy effect on Hair and cannot be recycled. It sits in our landfills forever.
MAY 25TH
Fresh Bounty: Foraging in Spring
Earthplace | 1:00 PM
Join Earthplace naturalist Siobhan Prout on a short walk outside to learn how to gather and prepare the edible goods growing in our sanctuary and garden safely and sustainably. Tickets, $8 for members and $10 for nonmembers, at earthplace.org
MAY 28TH !mpacCT Gala
The Point At Norwalk Cove Marina, 48 Calf Pasture Beach Road, Norwalk | 6:30 PM
The fifth annual !mpact CT Gala will benefit two important Connecticut charities: Circle of Care, which supports families of children facing pediatric cancer, and Project Morry, which works to ensure young people from under-resourced communities graduate high school and are prepared for life. Tickets, $300, at e.givesmart.com/events/HWh/
