New Canaan-Darien Magazine, September/October 2019

FAB FALL FASHION TRENDS TO GET RIGHT NOW

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019 | $5.95

Making History These teens can change the world

LOCAL FINDS

STREET SMART IN SONO TRAVEL

A PALM BEACH ESCAPE

HUMAN TRAFFICKING

ARE WE PART OF THE PROBLEM? PATRICK HOWARD, ANNA THÉRÈSE MEHRA, MARINA STEFANONI

The promise of together.

Norwalk Hospital is now part of Nuvance Health.

At Nuvance Health, we’re rethinking your healthcare experience with you and your family in mind. We let our curiosity guide us, asking the right questions and discovering what matters to you. We’re finding new ways to fit into your life, with options for care you can trust.

We invite you to experience that promise for yourself.

nuvancehealth.org © Nuvance Health

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WESTPORT

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HUNTINGTON

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GREENWICH

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MITCHELLS.COM

contents SEPT/OCT 2019 vol. 19 | issue 5

features

departments

56

12 EDITOR’S LETTER 15 STATUS REPORT

HISTORY IN THE MAKING

BUZZ Q&As with New Canaan High School and Darien High School principals; ALB Tutoring helps you set your kids up for success.

DO New things to do, see and buy in SoNo; Lyme disease prevention.

GO Palm Beach like you’ve never seen it; We test the new Buick Enclave Avenir.

EAT A review of Chef Luis’ new menu at Gates restaurant in New Canaan.

Meet our top teens— the leaders of tomorrow. by e l i z abet h hole

74

TRAFFICK STOP Human trafficking is happening right here in Fairfield County.

Here’s what you can do about it. by t i mot h y d umas

84

35 PEOPLE & PLACES

Young Women’s League of New Canaan Laurel House Inc. Eagles Autism Challenge Inc. New Canaan Nature Center The Glass House The Darien Foundation Planned Parenthood Silvermine Arts Center

FASHION FORWARD Our guest fashion editor highlights the top trends for fall 2019. by st e pha n i e t rot ta

107 INDEX OF ADVERTISERS 108 LAST WORD

A peek into guest fashion editor Stephanie Trotta’s personal style at her Darien home.

c ov e r: phot o shot on l o c ati on at the lit t le red s ch o olh ouse by kyl e norton | ha ir a nd m a k eup by jul s al on c l a ri f i c at i on: the phot os of paul si mon ’ s house appea ring in “t o m a rk et we go” in our july/august is sue were ta k en by l a ne c ode r

NEW CANAAN • DARIEN & ROWAYTON SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019, VOL. 19, NO. 5. NEW CANAAN • DARIEN & ROWAYTON (ISSN 1942-1028) is published bimonthly by Moffly Media, Inc., 205 Main St, Westport, CT 06880. Periodical postage paid at Westport, CT, and additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes (Form 3579) to NEW CANAAN PO BOX 9309, Big Sandy, TX 75755-9607. U.S. Subscription rates: $19.95/1 year (6 issues), $32.95/2 years; Canada and Foreign $40/1 year, $66/2 years. newcanaandarienmag.com

4

PHOTO BY STEPHANIE TROTTA

84

Yale Medicine specialists.

Greenwich Hospital touch.

Advanced neurologic care.

Today’s most personalized neurologic care is available right here at Greenwich Hospital. Our team includes Yale Medicine neurologists, neurosurgeons and skilled specialists who use advanced diagnostics to identify and treat specific conditions including stroke, spine disorders, epilepsy, multiple sclerosis and movement disorders like Parkinson’s disease. Innovative technologies and techniques mean more customized and effective treatment plans. It’s one of the advantages of being part of one of the country’s best health systems — Yale New Haven Health. Even as our medical capabilities advance, we stay committed to our roots as a caring, compassionate hospital with a singular focus — getting you back to the life you love. greenwichhospital.org

Alice Rusk, MD

JOIN US ONLINE! SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019

newcanaandarienmag.com

STYLE ON THE GO

EASY, BREEZY

Visit our galleries for all the fun

COLOR, COLOR EVERYWHERE. THE GOOD TIMES ARE ROLLING ALL OVER TOWN. CHECK OUT OUR PARTY PICS TO SEE WHO’S DOING—AND WEARING—WHAT.

above: Elizabeth Ariola, the stylish wife and mom behind @mrsnipple_ on Instagram

SHOUT OUT TO OUR SOCIAL CIRCLES Good luck keeping up with Fairfield County social media influencers.

These ladies are on the go! When working on a story about HAT ATTACK’s very fashionable accessories, we followed a few stylists and bloggers on Instagram as they posted outfit tips across Fairfield County.

Photos by @juliadags Style finds @hatattackny.

THREE TO FOLLOW NOW! 1. Stephanie Trotta @stephanietrotta 2. Elizabeth Ariola @mrsnipple 3. Emily Lucille Sanders @emilylucillesanders

FOLLOW US ON:

newcanaandarienmag.com

6

PARTY PHOTOS: MOFFLY MEDIA’S BIG PICTURE, DANIELLE ROBINSON CALLOWAY, LESLEY OSBORN, NEIL LANDINO; STYLE ON THE GO IMAGES BY JULIA DAGS

CELEBRATING THE PEOPLE + PLACES OF OUR TOWNS

VOLUME 19

ISSUE 5

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019

sales

creative director Amy Vischio

publisher, new canaan - darien Lisa Hingst

editorial

categories: automotive/builders/landscape/

executive editor Cristin Marandino

sports & fitness

editor Julee Kaplan publisher, greenwich Trish Kirsch

market editor Megan Gagnon advisory editor Donna Moffly

publisher, stamford Karen Kelly

assistant editor Joey Macari

category: travel

art art director Kim Gilby senior art director Venera Alexandrova senior art director/status report Garvin Burke contributing art director/Farifield Living Tim Carr production director Kerri Rak design assistant Taylor Stroili

publisher, westport Gabriella Mays categories: architects/interior design/home furnishing/ art & collectibles/fashion sales directors

Jennifer Petersen category: jewelry

contributors editor

Stephanie Delaney regional account executive, southeast category: regional travel

Diane Sembrot - editor, fairfield living; westport; stamford writers

Jennifer Frank

Christy Colasurdo, Timothy Dumas, Julia Dzafic, Kim-Marie Evans, Beth Cooney Fitzpatrick, Valerie Foster, Chris Hodenfield, Elizabeth Hole

categories: doctors/dentists/finance/insurance/ business consulting

Rick Johnson

guest fashion editor

categories: real estate/lawyers

Stephanie Trotta

Ellyn Weitzman

copy editors

categories: restaurants/wine & spirits/catering

Terry Christofferson, Kathy Satterfield

Hilary Hotchkiss

editorial advisory board

category: schools & universities

Robert Doran, Sue Frelinghuysen, David Genovese, Nancy Helle, Claire Hunter, Robyn Kammerer, Rita Kirby, George McEvoy, Julianna Spain, Amy Wilkinson, Torrance York

marketing events development director Deb Ryan partnership manager Kathleen Godbold

illustrator

strategic marketing director Wendy Horwitz

Jessica Stephen-Kuser

creative services art director Molly Cottingham

digital digital media manager Amber Scinto digital editor Diane Sembrot business business manager Elena Moffly president Jonathan W. Moffly vice president/editorial & design Amy Vischio vice president/finance & operations/ vice president/treasurer Elena Moffly cofounders John W. Moffly IV and Donna C. Moffly

published by 205 Main Street, Westport, CT 06880 phone: 203-222-0600 fax: 203-222-0937 mail@mofflymedia.com Publishers of FAIRFIELD LIVING, GREENWICH, NEW CANAAN - DARIEN, WESTPORT, STAMFORD and athome Magazines for advertising inquiries, email advertise@mofflymedia.com.

TO SUBSCRIBE, renew, or change your address, please e-mail us at subscribe@ncdmag.com, call 1-877-467-1735, or write to New Canaan - Darien magazine, 111 Corporate Drive, Big Sandy, TX 75755. U.S. subscription rates: $19.95/1 year (6 issues); $34.95/2 years (12 issues); $44.95/3 years (18 issues). Canada and foreign, US $36/year. Prices are subject to change without notice. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. No part of this periodical may be reproduced without express permission of the publisher. Š2019 New Canaan - Darien magazine is a registered trademark owned by Moffly Media.

The opinions expressed by writers commissioned for articles published by New Canaan - Darien magazine are not necessarily those of the magazine.

FOR QUALITY CUSTOM REPRINTS/E-PRINTS, please call 203-571-1645 or e-mail reprints@mofflymedia.com

newcanaandarienmag.com

8

NANTUCKET STYLE COMPOUND | NEW CANAAN

YOUR VERY OWN COASTAL RETREAT | NORWALK

Beautiful and classic, this home is set down a private lane and surrounded by a 45 acre land trust. Renovated to perfection and special beyond compare! $6,495,000 l MLS# 170161916 l Hannelore & Company l 914.450.3880

Luxurious, Chic new custom built home with extraordinary views of Long Island Sound, heated salt water pool with spa and private dock. $2,849,000| MLS # 170193225 | Marybeth Sullivan | 203.984.8025

HISTORIC MEETS MODERN LIVING | NEW CANAAN Built in 1903 as the Buxton School House and later renovated and expanded.

Beautiful, lush two acres only one mile from town! Exquisite in every way! $2,750,000 l MLS# 170212281 l Catherine DiChiara l 917.833.2837

YOUR OWN ISLAND | NORWALK A second home without I-95 traffic. FEMA compliant, like new. Self sustaining systems in place: solar energy, septic & water. Expansion possibilities. $1,500,000 | MLS # 170210878 | Joanne Shakley & Associates | 203.858.6352

N E W C A N A A N 2 0 3 . 9 6 6 . 3 5 5 5 | D A R I E N 2 0 3 . 6 5 5 .1 4 2 3 | R O W A Y TO N 2 0 3 . 8 5 4 . 5 1 1 6

LEARNING’S LIFELONG JOURNEY BEGINS WITH

Fairfield University’s College of Arts and Sciences

Explore our programs, spark your creative curiosity MFA in Creative Writing With low residency requirements— find your literary voice, transform dreams into published works

MA degree in Interior Design Announcing Connecticut’s first graduate degree leading to professional certification from American Society of Interior Designers (ASID) and National Council for Interior Design Qualification (NCIDQ) membership

MA in American Studies Pursue the ‘life of the mind’ in a unique interdisciplinary program offering expert mentorship from leading scholars in nine academic fields

Open MINDS Institute—A Community Partnership with the Pequot Library and the Quick Center Rekindle the excitement and awe of returning to the classroom; participate in these lively workshop discussion groups mentored by expert faculty—Fall 2019 course offerings include: • Opera and Us for Beginners: Exploring Live from the Met—begins September 26

• Fact in the Age of Fake News: American Democracy’s Stress Test—October 9 Sciences College of Arts and

• The Supreme Court: Its Greatest Cases— begins October 8

• Love, Lust, and Luxury; The Art of 15th Century Florence—begins October 16

Contact Elizabeth Hastings at ehastings@fairfield.edu | 203-254-4000, ext. 2688

College of Arts and Sciences

REAL ESTATE’S FOREVER BRAND.℠

SPRAWLING FAMILY COMPOUND

MAKE AN OFFER! REDUCTION 250K

Darien | 19 Horseshoe Road | $3,995,000 | $15,000 per month Debbie Brennan | 203.570.2342

New Canaan | 79 Lukes Wood Road | $2,999,000 Deborah Flanagan | 203.219.9776

CURATED COLONIAL

STEPS TO WRC: GIDDY UP!

Darien | 174 Leroy Avenue | $2,624,000 Sivan Kerins | 203.273.3482

Wilton | 23 Riding Club Road | $2,329,000 Candace Blackwood | 203.273.1007

Search all homes for sale at bhhsNEproperties.com DARIEN | 455 Post Road | 203.655.5114

NEW CANAAN | 98 Park Street | 203.966.7970

© 2019 An independently operated member of BHH Affiliates. Equal Housing Opportunity.

editor’s letter

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019 / JULEE KAPLAN

TIME FOR CHANGE

I

have yet to meet one person who is happy to say goodbye to summer. Sunny days by the water, dining al fresco, mini road trips, big vacations—they’re all hard to part with. But, there’s certainly something refreshing about the start of September. The kids get back to school and into routines, the air feels fresh, leaves change and a new season begins.

Here at the magazine we have so much in this issue to welcome fall, anchored by our Teens to Watch feature, “History in the Making,” which highlights some of the most impressive teens in our towns. Writer Elizabeth Hole sat with each teen to speak about everything from how they feel about social media to what they will do to make a difference in the world. Prepare to be wowed by this group: the New Canaan High School student who plans to cure rare diseases, the Darien based world squash champion, the pilot who is headed to Dartmouth—you won’t believe how inspiring they all are.

On a more serious note, in “Traffick Stop,” writer Tim Dumas examines the heinous world of human trafficking and how it directly relates to us right here in Fairfield County. With more than 40 million humans enslaved worldwide, the issue is clearly worse than ever before. It’s so important that newcanaandarienmag.com

12

we realize we are not immune to the issue and know that it’s happening right here.

The good news is that there are people in our communities whom are doing something about it and it’s imperative that we hear them and help them in the fight to end it.

We also welcomed Darien-based blogger Stephanie Trotta to the team for this issue as our guest fashion editor. She scoured the fall 2019 runways in order to bring us the best trends of the season. She shows us where to buy the best pieces locally and how to style them. You’re definitely going to want to shop.

This issue is filled with back-to-school tips on how to deal with anxiety, excitement, supply shopping—you name it. There’s a piece on all the newness in SoNo and another to give you even more reasons to travel to Palm Beach.

Happy fall!

julee.kaplan@moffly.com

PHOTO BY KYLE NORTON

FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM @NCDMAG

An independent, college preparatory day school, providing character-based education for boys in Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 12.

Preparing boys for life since 1902.

VISIT

BrunswickSchool.

org

to learn more and register for our fal l Open House

WINE MERCHANTS SINCE 1993 For the greatest selection in the area, and personalized service come and visit us, Tuesday through Sunday.

We offer 20% discount every 12 bottles of wine, every day!

Make sure to join our email list or follow us on Instagram for exciting tasting events, seminars, special offers and new arrivals!

THE RESTAURANT @ ROWAYTON SEAFOOD Located on the Five Mile River Lunch, Dinner and Sunday Brunch 203-866-4488 Open 7 days

ROWAYTON SEAFOOD MARKET Fresh Fish, Lobsters and Take Away 89 Rowayton Avenue, Rowayton 203-838-7473 Open 7 days

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32 Westchester Avenue | Pound Ridge, NY 10576 | 914-764-9463 | wineconn.com wineconn

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buzz STATUS REPORT

BACK TO SCHOOL

NEW CANAAN HIGH SCHOOL AND DARIEN HIGH SCHOOL PRINCIPALS LOOK FORWARD TO A SUCCESSFUL NEW YEAR OF LEARNING by julee kapl an | illustr ations by jessica stephen-kuser

WILLIAM EGAN, PRINCIPAL, New Canaan High School

ELLEN DUNN, PRINCIPAL, Darien High School

WHAT ARE YOU LOOKING FORWARD TO THIS YEAR? Education is the most special profession. We are so fortunate that we get to see children grow into young adults. It is an awesome responsibility to welcome the class of 2023, and we look forward to the leadership of the class of 2020.

WHAT ARE YOU LOOKING FORWARD TO THIS YEAR? I love the first day of school.

It’s filled with promise and expectations. The lives of educators cycle through beginnings and endings. We begin anew with our ever-changing student population and with our new teachers to recreate our learning environment.

A school is not a building; it is the collective energy of the people who have come together to learn as a community.

WHAT’S THE MOST IMPORTANT PART OF YOUR JOB? I have to try to make the school better for all stakeholders. Our vision is to create a school with a sense of community where parents want to send their children and students want to learn and enjoy being a part of NCHS. This is a place where employees feel respected, valued and enjoy coming to work.

WHAT’S SPECIAL ABOUT YOUR SCHOOL? We are a comprehensive high school filled with talented, well-rounded students, a talented teaching staff and extremely supportive parents and community.

Our skilled staff plays a big role in helping the students to succeed in academics, athletics and the arts.

Ninety percent of our students participate in extracurricular activities. The majority of these activities are civic-minded as our kids are consistently giving back to the community. They are wonderful to have as students.

ANY TIPS FOR PARENTS WITH CHILDREN STARTING HIGH SCHOOL THIS YEAR? Normally I feel pretty good about giving advice about adolescents, but my own daughter is starting high school this year and I realize the concern that parents have as their kids start a new journey.

What is most important is to create an open line of communication where kids feel safe and comfortable sharing their concerns. We are all a part of the team that works together for student happiness and success.

All kids make mistakes, and I would like for any student to feel comfortable opening up to a parent or teacher if they are struggling or have concerns so that we can work through any issues that arise. I believe that a safe school environment is a prerequisite to learning.

WHAT’S THE MOST IMPORTANT PART OF YOUR JOB? As a teacher for 21 years, my students were the center of my classroom and I did my best to be a role model for them in my decisionmaking, my work ethic and my love for them. The role of principal requires the same for the students and adults in our school. Setting the expectation that our students come before all else and that their well-being is our first priority is most important.

WHAT’S SPECIAL ABOUT YOUR SCHOOL? The amazing young people...they

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019 NEW CANAAN•DARIEN

15

bring their intellect, talents and spirit to our hallways and they excel in every arena. They shine in the classroom, on the field and on stage. Our students say thank you to their teachers as they leave classrooms every day.

They are grateful.

ANY TIPS FOR PARENTS WITH CHILDREN STARTING HIGH SCHOOL THIS YEAR? Try to step back and let students take on more responsibility so that they can gain the confidence they will need to move forward.

They need to experience setbacks in order to learn how to face disappointment. It is in these moments that they build the resilience they will rely upon when we are no longer with them. If we solve every problem and provide the cushion for every landing, they will not have the tools necessary to become independent. Always remember that the school wants to partner with you and has many resources for you and your family.

Never hesitate to reach out when your child needs support. Finally, enjoy this time with them because it will go by in the blink of an eye.

buzz BACK-TO-SCHOOL TIPS FROM ALB TUTORING Anxieties tend to run high before a new school year.

Here’s how to take it easy:

MAKE A LIST Feeling overwhelmed?

Visualizing everything on paper makes it all look easier to tackle. “When you can cross things off, it feels amazing,” Badioli says.

SET A DATE Invite your student for an end-of-summer lunch — something relaxing. Ask questions about school that would help to get to the root of any anxiety he/she is feeling.

CREATE PERSONAL SPACE

GAME CHANGER

ALB TUTORING BLENDS EDUCATION AND PSYCHOLOGY TO ACHIEVE SUCCESS by julee kapl an

A

lessandra Badioli isn’t your average tutor.

A Weston native and Sacred Heart graduate who now resides in Manhattan, Badioli bills herself as a holistic tutor and homework therapist. She blends her multi-cultural life experiences and work in education and psychology to provide unique learning experiences for the students she helps. Having lived in Italy for five years, she not only learned to speak Italian, but she also learned French, became a better note taker, and learned new strategies in order to retain information.

“Even though I spoke the

language, learning in Italian was tough,” Badioli says. “I really had to learn how to learn on my own.”

And that sparked something in her. Soon, she had moved back to Connecticut and started working toward her degree in psychology.

While doing so, she began coaching girls’ tennis and working as a tutor in Fairfield County, helping students to improve in just about every school subject as well as test prep. Next spring, Badioli is on target to receive her master’s in psychology from New York University and will apply for doctorate programs in the fall.

Her work in psychology and education has helped her to

change students’ attitudes, paths and habits, based on their needs.

Today, she continues to work one-on-one with kids throughout Fairfield County and offers in-person or FaceTime sessions.

She works with students of all ages from elementary school through high school. Her rate is $200 per hour.

“We work together as a team,” she stressed. “I encourage students to get the bad grade if they aren’t willing to put in the work. My goal isn’t to do the work for them. I’m there to make sure they’re learning the skills they need to learn and do the work themselves.”

newcanaandarienmag.com

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Establish a quiet study area without distractions, TV or video games. Personalize the space with things they like to make it feel like their own.

GO SHOPPING Plan a fun trip to buy supplies. “Don’t go last minute,” she stresses.

“That can cause unnecessary anxiety.”

Don’t bulk up on too many binders and make sure to use a planner with one-week sections that you can see all on one page.

SET GOALS Make a list of goals for the school year or semester.

Don’t look for perfection and make goals achievable to help build confidence.

Contact Alessandra Badioli at Alessandra@ALBTutoring. com or through her website, albtutoring.com.

PHOTO BY WILSON SANTINELLI

Alessandra Badioli (left) of ALB Tutoring works with students throughout Fairfield County.

INFRARED SAUNA GRAND OPENING AUGUST 2019

30% OFF YOUR FIRST SESSION CHROMOTHERAPY ACOUSTIC RESONANCE THERAPY ELECTROLYTE INFUSED WATER

BOOK A SESSION: WWW.CALMEINFRARED.COM / 1-475-558-9800 78 MAIN STREET, NEW CANAAN, CT 06840

do by valerie foster

URBAN RENEWAL IF YOU HAVEN’T EXPLORED SOUTH NORWALK, NOW’S THE TIME TO GO

W

hy spend a day (or a week) in South Norwalk? The better question: Why not? Let us count the reasons why hip, chic, eclectic SoNo should be on everyone’s must-do list.

The obvious destination is the MARITIME AQUARIUM, an up-close-and-personal experience featuring more than 2,700 marine animals. It also houses the largest Imax in Connecticut, more than six stories high. On the fringe of SoNo is STEPPING STONES MUSEUM FOR CHILDREN, a fun, creative place dedicated to early childhood education.

Within weeks, SoNo will become a shopper’s mecca, when the SONO COLLECTION opens, a 700,000 square-foot retail center anchored by Nordstrom and Bloomingdale’s. You’ll also find J.Jill, Sephora, J Crew, Chico’s, Soma, Jarcy, and some eateries like Yard House Sports Bar and Pinstripes Bowling, Bocci and Beer. At press time, Nordstrom is scheduled to open on October 11 and the rest of the shops will follow. This is going to be big.

Renderings of the new SoNo Collection, opening in October. The mall will house Nordstrom and Bloomingdale's and other specialty stores like Sephora, Zara, J.Jill and Camp, a family experience store with a location in Manhattan.

newcanaandarienmag.com

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was hing ton st. r st. wate

DONOVAN'S, WASHINGTON STREET AMD PSYCHIC PHOTOS BY VENERA ALEXANDROVA; ALL OTHER PHOTOS COURTESY OF BRANDS

at the heart of it all

Welcome to Washington Street, known for its diverse restaurant mix that lines both sides of the street, from Main Street to aptly named Water Street that hugs the Norwalk Harbor. There are some old friends like DONOVAN’S, that’s been around since 1889, a wonderfully cozy, friendly pub with a huge outdoor eating area on Water Street, and MATCH, where owner/chef Matt Storch has been surprising fans with his creative food since 1999.

In a courtyard across the street from Donovan’s is Chef Stephen Lewandowski’s Harlan Publick, where urban chic meets New American comfort fare. It’s in a courtyard, complete with an outdoor fireplace and bar. And one more, the IRON BREWING COMPANY with a tagline that’s hard to resist: Better Beer Through Chemistry. Yes, please.

Before you leave Washington Street, there are two more places worth a look-see.

BEADWORKS that lives up to its name: thousands of beads, jewelry-making supplies, and classes to learn the tricks of the bead-making trade, and SONO PSYCHIC, where seventhgeneration psychic Lauren Evans reads palms and tarot.

above: A "welcome" mural on the side of Donovan's was the first of many murals commissioned in Norwalk and it gives personality to the hub of South Norwalk's main corner. The friendly pub has been a fixture in the area since 1889.

Across the street is Beadworks, a haven for jewelry makers. right: Match serves up yummy American fare like burgers, steaks, pasta and Asian-inspired dishes. bottom right: Resident psychic Lauren Evans can read your palms and tarot cards. bottom left: Grab a beer at Donovan's or Iron Brewing Company and maybe a little brunch, too.

do

r st. wate

cruisin’

don’t miss this

At the end of Washington Street cross over to Water Street and head for the charters. THE MARITIME AQUARIUM’S R/V SPIRIT OF THE SOUND is available for private events, study-cruise programs and year-round public cruises that include TGIF and Saturday sunset sails, Norwalk Island and five-lighthouse explorations and special Octoberfest Saturdays.

Turn left at the end of Washington Street, and public parking is on your left, the Aquarium on your right. Turn right for another public garage on the next block, Haviland Street. Continue down Water Street for two more blocks to Hanford Place. On the left is SoNo Square and parking for three stellar places:

THE NORWALK SEAPORT ASSOCIATION CRUISES:

1

2

LIGHTHOUSE TOUR

CLAMBAKES

The Seaport ferry takes visitors to SHEFFIELD ISLAND where you can tour the 10-room lighthouse or walk the Nature Trail through the Stewart B. McKinney Wildlife Refuge.

Thursday nights on the island, summers through Sept. 19.

6:00 p.m.— 9:30 p.m.

3 LISTEN UP Two-hour acoustic Wednesday evening cruises through Norwalk Harbor and Long Island Sound include local entertainers. Participants are encouraged to BYOB and food.

SONO BAKING CO. & CAFÉ

Third-generation owner/ baker John Barricelli hosted Martha Stewart’s “Everyday Baking” on PBS. You won’t regret stopping in for breakfast, lunch or even a whole cake. Yum.

SONO SEAPORT SEAFOOD

4

A casual eatery/fish market that has everything you would expect at a waterside restaurant, including a raw bar, chowders, seafood, fish and burgers for landlubbers.

There’s even an outdoor bar.

And the best part is that you can relive the experience by shopping at the market.

SUNSET CRUISES

Board the catamaran on Friday nights for a chill two-hour cruise through Norwalk Harbor and Long Island Sound. BYOB. Last cruise is September 20.

Grab your tickets on seaport.org.

newcanaandarienmag.com

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Deliciousness awaits at The SoNo Baking Company & Cafe.

PAGANO’S SEAFOOD

Continue your adventure to Pagano’s Seafood at 142 Water St. It’s been in Norwalk since 1992, selling wholesale, until eight years ago when the store was added. One of the bargains you can usually find here is monkfish, the normally hard-to-find poor-man’s lobster. (Monkfish eat lobster so it’s really sweet.) If you need recipe ideas, just ask.

The staff has lots of advice.

CIGAR FACTORY OUTLET

For cigar lovers, the International Cigar Factory Outlet features dozens of brands, humidors and gifts, but the real treat is watching Alberto hand roll cigars in four sizes — robusto, churchill, double corona and torpedo.

SONO BAKING AND CIGAR PHOTOS BY VENERA ALEXANDROVA; ALL OTHER PHOTOS COURTESY OF BRANDS

was hing ton st.

FINDING A PRIMARY CARE DOCTOR IS EASIER THAN EVER. Stamford Health Medical Group believes primary care is important for keeping you and your loved ones healthy. With more than 130 primary care physicians and specialists across Fairfield County, we make it easy for you to find a doctor close to home.

We offer flexible hours that fit your schedule, and we accept most health insurance plans.

To make an appointment, visit StamfordHealth.org/PrimaryCare or call 888.898.4876.

DARIEN • GREENWICH • NEW CANAAN • NORWALK • RIVERSIDE • STAMFORD • WILTON

do buzz

TICK TALK

FIGHTING BACK

WITH LYME DISEASE AND OTHER TICK-BORNE ILLNESSES STILL ON THE RISE, FALL ISN’T THE TIME TO LET YOUR GUARD DOWN by christ y c ol asurd o

Tips to keep ticks away and prevent illness

SELF-EXAMINATION Perform self-checks especially after working or playing outside and shower with hot water right away.

WHITE-OUT CONDITIONS Wear white or light clothing when out on hikes or gardening.

This can help you to identify a tick on your clothing, since they can blend in with dark colors making them hard to find.

WOOD-CHIP BARRIER Reduce tick populations by creating a three-foot-wide wood-chip barrier around your yard, planting plants and shrubs that don’t attract deer or ticks (no barberry bushes) and installing fences to keep deer off your property.

HARMFUL CHEMICALS? tick (black-legged tick) has an approximate two-year life cycle, and both the nymph (early life cycle) and adult can transmit the infections associated with Lyme disease. So, in short, always stay vigilant by checking yourself for ticks. Medical providers should also keep Lyme disease in their minds as a possible diagnosis when practicing in Connecticut, as people year-round can be affected.”

D’onofrio notes that prevention, like most things in medicine, is the best way to avoid the infection. He advises, “If a person thinks they may have a tick-borne illness they should see their primary care provider to discuss the concern as soon as possible. Early-stage Lyme disease is easier to treat than latent-stage Lyme disease, so early identification is important.

reports are concentrated in the Northeast and upper Midwest, with 14 states accounting for over 96 percent of all reported cases.

With us living in Connecticut, which has an approximate population of 3.5 million, we are in a state with a lot of reported and unreported Lyme and tick-borne illnesses when compared to other states outside the Northeast.”

When fall arrives and the temperatures dip, many are under the impression that cooler weather kills off ticks. Not so says D'Onofrio.

“I wish the cold killed off ticks, but this is simply not true, he says. “Ticks like to hide in leaf litter and yard brush when temperatures are low. During fall and early spring, the adult deer tick is more prevalent, which likes to attach itself to larger hosts (deer, dogs, humans). A deer

newcanaandarienmag.com

22

Consider chemical sprays (organic and non-organic).

They are not regulated, and it is hard to say what does and does not work. D’ Onofrio advises to research local spraying companies, and be mindful as to not harm the environment or nearby water supplies.

DON’T FLUSH IT Don’t flush it. If you find a tick, put it in a sealed baggie and bring it to the Westport-Weston Health District (WWHD) for tick identification; they can also send ticks out for disease testing.

BE YOUR OWN ADVOCATE Be your own advocate.

Symptoms, including headache, dizziness, rashes, fever, brain fog, joint and muscle pain/ weakness, all mimic other diagnoses. Ask your doctor to keep Lyme disease in mind at any time of the year, and request a blood test by IGeneX, a leading testing lab for Lyme.

PHOTOGRAPH BY © GABORT - STOCK.ADOBE.COM

S

ummer is over, and you managed to end the season without being bitten by a tick. Lucky you. But before you pat yourself on the back or get too smug, consider that deer ticks don’t actually die off in the fall and winter, as some believe.

Northeastern states, such as Connecticut, Rhode Island and Massachussetts, are literally teeming with these little buggers, which spread Lyme Disease and a variety of other debilitating tickborne ailments.

Out of the 300,000-plus new cases of Lyme Disease diagnosed by the CDC every year, a staggeringly high percentage come from our area. Louis D'Onofrio, DNP, MSN, FNP-C, PCCN, Director of Clinical Care Westport-Weston Health District, says, “Lyme disease

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SOME LIKE IT HOT A FAVORITE FAIRFIELD COUNTY GETAWAY, PALM BEACH HAS LONG BEEN ON OUR RADAR, BUT HERE ARE A FEW THINGS YOU MAY NOT KNOW

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est Palm Beach, which doesn’t have a beach, has long been the “other” Palm Beach. Well, West Palm has been getting a little work done. BERNARDO NETO brings twelve years of Vegas hotel experience with his Ben Hotel opening in West Palm next spring. The Ben will be the only water-facing hotel in the city and flaunt the sweeping views from its rooftop pool and

lounge. The nearby Hilton already set a new young vibe when it opened a few years ago. Its Sunday brunch combining poolside yoga, champagne and a DJ has been a huge hit. Additionally, City Place has been “getting some work done” and is now Rosemary Square. When the $550 million in upgrades are complete, the area will be unrecognizable with Vegasstyle fountain sculptures, public art murals, green spaces and more.

A rendering of the uber-chic Ben Hotel

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igh-speed trains in the U.S.? VIRGIN TRAINS runs ultra-modern trains that are able to whisk passengers from West Palm Beach to Miami in just over an hour and to Ft. Lauderdale in only forty minutes. Formerly known as Brightline, the new trains offer amenities you,d expect to see in first-class airplane cabins. All passengers enjoy fast and free Wi-Fi. Those who upgrade to Select (think Amtrak Business Class) also enjoy complimentary snacks (and delightfully chilled face cloths to refresh on arrival). The rail line recently broke ground on tracks to Orlando. Service to the happiest place on earth should be available by 2021.

The trains, which are the only fully compliant ADA accessible ones in the country, travel up to 125 miles per hour.

above: Hai House’s Palm Beach Pu Pu Platter below: Fresh-pressed juice with whiskey from Batch Southern Kitchen

N

ashville came to Delray last fall with the opening of a TIN ROOF outpost, a restaurant and live music joint.

The likes of Luke Bryan and the Florida Georgia Line have hit

the stage. The Delray venue has live music all week and inventive comfort food like fried biscuit sliders (smoked brisket with bacon) and bourbon berry French toast (at the brunch).

Like a Sonic, but better. Stay in your car while a valet snaps up your take-out order from the new HAI HOUSE, opened in Palm Beach last December.

The Chinese-American eatery is helmed by Chef James Strine (who has Echo, Café Boulud, Buccan and Grato on his résumé).

The brand new BATCH SOUTHERN KITCHEN on Clematis in West Palm brings a novel twist to cocktails with “batching.” Cocktail batching is a technique that requires drinks to marinate for months before being served. They tout the use of ingredients from local farms and distilleries. The menu is creative Southern comfort food, think s’mores waffles, pimento/green tomato grilled cheese sandwiches, and BBQ jackfruit sliders. newcanaandarienmag.com

26

above: And away you go—West Palm to Miami in just over an hour

RECREATION DESTINATION

W

ith 160 private and public golf courses in just the Palm Beaches area alone, it’s easy to sneak in a round—or two. Beach lovers have endless options with thirty different tropical beach parks spread across forty-seven miles of sandy shoreline. Like boating in Long Island Sound? You’ll love exploring the 125 miles of scenic waterways including the Intracoastal, Lake Worth Lagoon and the Atlantic Ocean.

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PRETTY LUXE

BUICK’S ENCLAVE OFFERS BIG COMFORT IN A MEDIUM SIZE by chris hodenfield

you of its power till you ask.

Its natural bailiwick is effortless cruising, whether down the highway or the Post Road. A solid positioning on the road is felt at all times; only Manhattan’s nastiest potholes gave it a surprise. On our twisty back roads, the Enclave was unstressed and stable.

If it has the opulence of the bigger SUVs, what does it lack?

Well, the second-row seats are not as magnificent as the front seats, and the third-row is thin. To get really expansive luggage hauling, the third seat needs to be stowed.

That’s easy enough: Just push a

The Enclave is an easy vehicle to like. The doors close with a solid thunk. The Bose sound system is magnificent. The navigation system can be figured out in ten seconds, and it works very well. There are ports all over, even for the third row. And it can be optioned up to become a traveling WiFi hot spot.

This new, second-generation Enclave has a more powerful V-6 and the transmission moves up three gears to be a nine-speed.

This elevates the highway fuel mileage to 25 mpg, up from 22. It’s capable of quite healthy acceleration, but it doesn’t remind

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28

button and humming motors drop the third seat and flatten it out.

So, for a combination of size and grace, it’s just right. Order it in “Ebony Twilight Metallic” and you have a Buick that actually looks sinister. Whatever the shade, it’s an urbane, highstyle ride.

STATS BUICK ENCLAVE AVENIR Base: $55,800 Drivetrain: 310-hp, 3.6-liter V6 AWD EPA mileage ratings: 17/25 mpg

CONTRIBUTED

W

hen Goldilocks goes searching today for the SUV that is “just right,” she will find a vast, detailed list of choices ranging from extremely sporty crossovers to sumptuous luxury liners.

The Buick Enclave embraces the comfort side of the ledger, all the while being nowhere near the size of the Escalade/Suburban bruisers. The Enclave is just the right size to be considered elegant.

It’s handsome enough to have gained a good deal of approval in Fairfield County, especially the glossed-up Avenir version we tested.

eat

by eliz abeth hole / photos by kyle norton

GATE CHANGE

FAMED LOCAL CHEF LUIS LOPEZ ADDS A FRESH SPIN TO THE MENU AT GATES IN NEW CANAAN

A

New Canaan institution since 1979, Gates Restaurant continues to evolve while preserving a neighborhood charm and family-friendly vibe. It’s the kind of place that has regulars, but any visitor would feel at home. Billed as “casually elegant,” Gates offers American fare in a modern atmosphere with high ceilings, wooden beams and exposed brick walls uncovered during a 2016 renovation.

Gates was the first restaurant to open on Forest Street, so longtime customers flocked to the beloved eatery for a “last supper” in April 2015 when the original owners retired and sold the business. The “new Gates” opened 10 months later with updated décor, cuisine and a wood-fired oven, but kept menu staples favored by loyal clientele and an air of nostalgia. Fast-forward to January 2019 when well-loved restaurateur Luis Lopez signed on as executive chef and started adding his own spin to the menu.

As a fan of Lopez’ former New Canaan restaurant, Chef Luis, I was curious to try Gates with Lopez at the helm. My family and I walked in on a busy Friday night and the dining room was packed. The hostess was able to seat us in the jovial tavern and bar area, which has a variety of comfortable booths and high-top tables. A baseball game was on at the bar, and I eyed a pinball machine as another entertainment option for the kids.

For appetizers, we shared fried meatballs as well as chicken and lemongrass dumplings—a new addition from Lopez. The flavor of the meatballs was appealing, with fresh arrabiata sauce, fromage blanc and crispy garlic bread.

The dumplings were a family favorite, and the delicious red chili sauce gradually disappeared with each dip.

The Ahi Tuna Poke Bowl and Gates’ signature Chop Chop Verona salad served al fresco.

Heaven in ConneCtiCut Far from the madding crowd, in the Litchfield Hills, lies a quiet getaway. Set on 113 acres and bordering extensive woods and lakes, Winvian Farm was created to recharge and indulge. The five-star cuisine, the wines, the spa and the service are as unexpected as the experiences that one ultimately enjoys— and it’s just around the corner.

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An eclectic menu enabled us to dine on four different cuisines.

Although the dishes were varied, everything was flavorful and authentic. Former patrons of Chef Luis will appreciate the new taco options, while Gates devotees can still order the fabled burger and Chop Chop Verona—a salad with avocado, smoked bacon bits, tomatoes and crumbled blue cheese—which has endured every menu revision.

Gates has a junior menu for those 12 and under, and the woodfired oven makes grilled pizzas another popular go-to for diners of all ages.

My jumbo shrimp taco was nicely spiced and served in perfectly grilled corn tortillas,

along with avocado, corn salsa, rice and black beans. The Tavern Burger was made from highquality certified Angus beef, complete with a signature touch of the kitchen’s “100 Island” dressing and half sour pickles.

Both my children gave a thumbsup review for the bolognese.

Made with paccheri pasta, chicken ragu, fresh tomato sauce and ricotta, it could rival any Italian restaurant. Rounding out our order was the BBQ Korean Beef Bowl. Slightly sweet and savory, the beef complemented the cremini mushrooms, broccoli and roasted baby carrots. A notable new category, the bowls feature six options ranging from ahi tuna to crispy chicken dishes.

above: Lupica’s Spaghetti with lobster, shrimp and cherry tomatoes and the Wood-Fired Roasted Chicken in a sangria marinade, roasted potatoes and haricot vert. below: The Tavern Burger and fries.

Everyone was stuffed, but we somehow managed to devour the Giant Brownie Sundae. Served in a tall chilled glass, it comes with house-made brownies, vanilla ice cream, a decadent portion of hot fudge, whipped cream and the requisite cherry on top.

In addition to good food and a talented chef, there’s an active nightlife and charity component at Gates. Regular crowds come for Wednesday night trivia and live music on Saturdays, while local heroes are celebrated.

Firefighters, police, military veterans and other town personnel get 20 percent off, and the restaurant donates 10 percent of every Sunday purchase to area churches and nonprofits.

No matter what changes at Gates, the best part remains: a sense of community.

The New York Strip steak with cognac peppercorn sauce, served with parmesan truffle fries.

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YOUNG WOMEN’S LEAGUE OF NEW CANAAN / Darien Community Association

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Off To The Races

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entucky came to Connecticut on May 4 when the Young Women’s League of New Canaan celebrated its Unbridled Debry Party at the Darien Community Association. Guests turned up in their Derby finest to watch the race live while betting, purchasing raffle tickets, bidding on auction items and, of course, sipping mint juleps. Over $50,000 was raised in support of Circle of Care and the YWL Giving Fund. ywlnewcanaan.org »

1 Lauren Ericson, Suzanne Gallagher, Natalie McPartland, Megan Hoffman, Bonnie Favale, Olivia Huvane, Emily Warshowsky, Molly Reilly, Erin Marich and Alison White 2 Kelly Hancock 3 Elizabeth DeMuth, Alyson Mahoney and Vicky Merwin 4 Karina Zaleska, Patrizio Torregiani, Anthony DeLuca, Marisol Gravelle, Chrissy Bogal and Rich DelMazzio 5 Manna Sigurdardottir, Ana Maria Leeming, Dave Sposito, Sasa Perlin and Sarah Hering 6 Sarah Brody, Ann and Tim Spilker 7 Erin Marich 8 Liz Salguero SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019 NEW CANAAN•DARIEN

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LAUREL HOUSE, INC. / Delamar Greenwich

House Party

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bout 240 guests dined and danced at Laurel House, Inc.’s annual fundraiser, An Evening with Laurel House, held at the Delamar, Greenwich Harbor on April 27. Andrew J. Gerber, MD, PhD, president and medical director of Silver Hill Hospital was honored as Laurel House’s 2019 Champion for Recovery. Nancy C. Herling, former Director Post 53, was recognized as the Darien Town Champion and Paul Reinhardt, founder, New Canaan Parent Support Group was recognized as the New Canaan Town Champion.

All proceeds from the event support Laurel House’s programs and services that help individuals and families achieve and sustain mental health to lead fulfilling lives in the community. laurelhouse.net »

1 The Autore Family 2 Julie and Lief Andersen, Tina Boll, Mark Broach and Kate Kiguradze 3 Andrew Gerber 4 Eileen Raleigh and Nancy Herling 5 Cheryl Palmer, John Wooten and Rey Giallongo 6 Michael Marsico and Adrianne Singer 7 Laure Aubuchon, AC O’Rourke, David and Julie Genovese 8 Paul Reinhardt 9 Laurel House Board members

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PHOTOS BY MOFFLY MEDIA’S BIG PICTURE/ MARILYN ROOS PHOTOGRAPHY

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1 The sold-out crew at Joyride 2 EJ Yu, Leslie Napach, Jessica Avnir and Rachel Kornfeld 3 Andrew Campbell, Mo Prester and Laurie Bouris 4 Jason and Amy Neer 5 Laurie and Eric Bouris with Randy Zaritsky 6 Eric Popilowski, Andrew Campbell and Chris Hornauer 7 Dina Fay and Leann Duggan

EAGLES AUTISM CHALLENGE, INC. / Joyride Darien

Fiesta!

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sold-out crowd turned up at Joyride in Darien on May 5 to celebrate Cinco de Mayo and benefit the Eagles Autism Challenge, Inc., an organization dedicated to raising awareness and funds for autism research. The event was organized by Laurie and Eric Bouris in honor of their 9year-old son. Riders purchased raffle tickets and worked out to pro instructor Mo Prester’s stellar Mexican-inspired playlist before sipping margaritas in the cycling studio’s lobby. eaglesautismchallenge.net »

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NEW CANAAN NATURE CENTER / Woodway Country Club

Master Class

T

he New Canaan Nature Center celebrated its third annual Lecture & Luncheon on May 2 at the Woodway Country Club in Darien. This year’s featured guest was interior designer and author Ellie Cullman of Cullman & Kravis. Cullman and her design partners Claire Ratliff, Lee Cavanaugh, Alyssa Urban and Sarah Ramsey all shared stories of fabulous design from Cullman’s most recent book, From Classic to Contemporary: Decorating with Cullman & Kravis, as well as other projects. newcanaannature.org »

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PHOTOS BY MOFFLY MEDIA’S BIG PICTURE/BOB CAPAZZO

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THE GLASS HOUSE

Summer Fun

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he Phillip Johnson Glass House celebrated its 70th year during the annual Summer Party on June 8. A sold-out crowd came to experience an “aerial surprise” by French high-wire artist Phillippe Petit and music from the Harlem-based drumline and dance crew, The Marching Cobras. Party-goers picnicked on the grounds with farm-to-table bites from South End and wine from Whispering Angel.

Proceeds from the event benefit the preservation of the historical site. theglasshouse.org » newcanaandarienmag.com

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1 Gregory Sages, George Smart, Fred Noyes, Amanda Martocchio and Christa Carr 2 Douglas Wurth and Chase Landow 3 Floral arrangements by Earth Garden 4 Remi Salami, John Baker, Seun Salami and Fatou Niang 5 High-wire artist Phillippe Petit 6 Reed Krakoff and his son 7 Scott Drevnig 8 Thomas, Cece and Christina Carr with Ella and Oscar Leohnis 9 Susan Magrino and Allyn Homberg

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THE DARIEN FOUNDATION / Tokeneke Club

Set Sail

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sold-out crowd came decked in their finest yacht glam gear and partied to celebrate the Darien Foundation’s annual summer party, Rock the Yacht. Guests grooved to the Yacht Rock Revue who covered best hits from the seventies and eighties like “Africa,” “All Night Long” and “Go Your Own Way.” Ticket sales benefitted the Darien Foundation, an organization that raises funds to improve the overall quality of life in Darien by supporting youth, providing grants for technology and capital initiatives. darienfoundation.org » newcanaandarienmag.com

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1 Edward and Penny Glassmeyer, Nancy Dauk and Pete Scull 2 Cathy Jefferson and Katie Pettit 3 Deidre and Tom Rossi 4 Whitney and Meredith George 5 Guy Wisinski and Patrick Robinson 6 Ward Glassmeyer and Kristin Edwards 7 Pam Dysenchuk and Kerrie Kelley 8 Sarah Woodberry and Byrne Pozzi

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1 Lesley Sandison, Sally Jones, Avery Flowers, Emily D’ Andrea, Karen Perry 2 Cochairs Diane McEnroe, Sheila Mossman, Donna Moffly, Danielle Eason, Katey Goldberg, missing is Anne Goodnow 3 Janine Kennedy, Julie Church 4 Erica Buchsbaum, honoree; Amanda Skinner, president/CEO PPSNE; Gloria Steinem, speaker 5 Elizabeth Bodek, Dr. Nelson Bonheim and Carolyn Bonheim 6 Emcee Jane Condon 7 Julianna Spain, Carlyle Upson, Sherry Ramsay 8 Dr. Leana Wen, PPFA president 9 Jonathan Moffly, State Representative Terrie Wood 10 Ann Hagmann, Cricket Lockhart

PLANNED PARENTHOOD / Stamford Marriott 10

Planning Parenthood

I

t was a record-breaker for Planned Parenthood of Southern New England. The annual Spring Luncheon drew 750 attendees to the Stamford Marriott in support of reproductive healthcare and raised over $880,000 to help serve 72,000 patients across Connecticut and Rhode Island.

Comedian Jane Condon kept things rolling, Erica Buchsbaum was honored with the Community Impact Award and Gloria Steinem, legendary feminist organizer and political activist, got a standing ovation. plannedparenthood.org Âť newcanaandarienmag.com

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PHOTOS #1-3, 5, 7, 9, 10 BY BOB CAPAZZO; PHOTOS #4, 6, 8 BY ALLIE DEARIE PHOTOGRAPHY

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MEET THE LEGENDARY DON JUAN AS YOU'VE NEVER SEEN HIM BEFORE. tickets on sale now

WESTPORTPLAYHOUSE.ORG | 203 227 4177 BOX OFFICE HOURS 12PM–6PM TUES–FRI

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1 Elizabeth and Rob Mallozzi, Pam Greenblatt, Paul Foley and Jay Greenblatt 2 Fran Meehan, Pamela Davis and Svetlin Tchakarov 3 Silent auction items on display 4 Rob Mallozzi with New Canaan First Selectman Kevin Moynihan 5 Rose-Marie Fox, Michael Yaeger, State Senator Bob Duff 6 Nancy McTague Stock and Robert Stock 7 Gala co-chairs Stephanie Joyce and David Dunlop 8 Robin Jaffee Frank, Mayor Harry Rilling, Lucia Rilling and Sophia Gevas

SILVERMINE ARTS CENTER / Stamford Yacht Club

In Living Color

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ew Canaan’s Silvermine Arts Center celebrated its annual Living Art Awards on May 11 at the Stamford Yacht Club honoring Diageo, a leader in the alcohol industry that is committed to reducing its environmental impact in line with United Nations Sustainable Development Goals while actively supporting local communities. In its efforts, Diageo has helped make Silvermine’s outreach education programs possible, enriching the lives of students in Norwalk and Stamford. Legacy Award Winner Pamela Davis came to painting after a career in finance and served as Silvermine’s executive director between 2007 and 2010. The Artist Award was presented to painter and printmaker Fran Meehan. Diana and Lyman Delano were also honored with the Philanthropy Award for their long-term commitment and significant support. silvermineart.org

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PHOTOS BY REBEKAH BUTLER

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NEW CANAAN AND DARIEN 2019

New Canaan and Darien are filled with extraordinary professionals and businesses

that continuously leave an imprint on countless aspects of our lives by offering us their talent, innovation and passion every single day. They are the core of our communities and make New Canaan and Darien two of the best towns to call home

Meet the 2019 Faces of New Canaan and Darien >

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NEW NEWCANAAN CANAAN 2019 2019

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THE AMERICAN DREAM Cava

Long before they were American citizens, siblings Kleber, Nube and Vicente Siguenza developed Cava Wine Bar, a modern Italian restaurant with a Latin twist and generous wine selection.

Executive Chef Nube marries her passion for food and her classical training to innovate while remaining true to her Italian inspiration and Latin American roots. No strangers to the intricacies of the palate, the siblings have received The Best of the Gold Coast Award, where Cava’s wine list was highlighted as one of the region’s best. The distinguished history that connects the building to the Connecticut Gold

Coast is prominently displayed in the main dining room, “ensconced in a wine-cellar-like setting,” to provide the ideal temperature all year round for the storage of wine and the enjoyment of guests, from which the venue takes its name. The Siguenzas’ passion for fresh food, fine wine and hospitality has facilitated this family-oriented restaurant to become the American Dream.

2 FOREST STREET • NEW CANAAN 203.966.6946 • CAVAWINEBAR.COM

Bob Capazzo Photography

Nube Siguenza, Vicente Siguenza and Kleber Siguenza

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NEW CANAAN 2019

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FINE JEWELRY AND TIMEPIECES Manfredi Jewels

Bob Capazzo Photography

Roberto Chiappelloni

Since 1988, Manfredi Jewels has stood at the pinnacle of fine jewelry and timepiece retail.

Within downtown Greenwich and New Canaan lie two luxurious spaces housing an unparalleled collection of exquisite jewels, timepieces, and Manfredi exclusive jewelry. The knowledgeable staff who are experts in repairs, hand-crafted creations, diamonds, gemstones and historical background of horology and jewelry, are the perfect complement to the fine jewelry and watches offered at Manfredi Jewels.

For over 30 years, Manfredi Jewels has been at the forefront of the fine timepiece industry, carrying brands recognized as innovators of

style and mechanical mastery. Manfredi Jewels’ offering of over 30 watch brands includes notables such as Rolex, Breguet, Bvlgari, Chopard, Longines, Omega and Vacheron Constantin. Fine jewelry brands include such as Bvlgari, Chopard, Roberto Coin, Estate Jewelry, Manfredi Jewels, Mikimoto, Tacori, Each is selected by Manfredi owner and watch and jewelry enthusiast, Roberto Chiappelloni, to further expand the broad array of choices offered.

72 ELM STREET • NEW CANAAN 203.966.8705 • MANFREDIJEWELS.COM

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NEW CANAAN 2019

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COURAGEOUS THINKING King School

Dr. Karen Eshoo, Head of School at King School, seeks more than achievement from her students.

She and the Division Heads, pictured in the school’s Innovation Lab, are committed to opening minds and sparking courageous thinking so their students discover and forge their unique paths to excellence.

“Our students are at the center of everything we do at King School. Because when we set better standards for both the experience and outcomes of education, students cultivate the insights and heart to own their future,” says Dr. Eshoo.

As an institution that evolved from the mergers of three founding schools, King School knows a thing or two about challenging preconceived notions about

what good education looks like. That’s why they prioritize teaching students how to think rather than what to think.

At King, students ask for more of their education. They pursue meaningful research, boldly intertwine academic subjects, and share their learning in diverse formats.

They deepen their understanding through the give and take of different perspectives to become active and nimble learners. King students discover a better way to be their best.

Open House: Grades 6-11: Oct. 6. PreK-Grade 5: Nov. 3.

1450 NEWFIELD AVENUE • STAMFORD 203.322.3496 • KINGSCHOOLCT.ORG

Bob Capazzo Photography

Dr. Josh Deitch, Head of Middle School, Amy Vorenberg, Head of Lower School, Dr. Karen Eshoo, Head of School and Marnie Sadlowsky, Head of Upper School

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DARIEN 2019

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FINANCIAL RESPONSIBILITY Navesink Wealth

Bob Capazzo Photography

Peter Graham Jr.

Navesink Wealth Management is an Independent Investment Consulting firm focused on comprehensive financial services and personalized wealth management.

They offer an in-depth financial plan, helping you meet your retirement goals.

The father-son business team formed when Pete Jr. left Wall Street to open the Darien office in 2014, partnering with his father, Pete Sr. This father-son business relationship is unique in that they both work out of different offices. Pete Sr. has managed the Middletown, New Jersey location since 1995, and Pete Jr. works out of the Darien location. By working

in separate offices and states, the duo can expand their footprint and further grow the business while still maintaining their open policy and logistic approach in working with clients.

Through constructing each investment portfolio after an extensive analysis of risk tolerance, investment objectives and time horizon, Navesink Wealth Management creates and maintains a diversified portfolio that is designed to work for many years.

30 OLD KINGS HIGHWAY SOUTH • DARIEN 203.202.2097 • NAVESINKWEALTH.COM

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NEW CANAAN 2019

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A THIRD-GENERATION FAMILY BUSINESS KARL Chevrolet President Leo Karl III

Karl Chevrolet offers commuter-friendly service.

But convenient service is more than location — our team works to fit your schedule. Need a ride?

Prefer pickup and delivery? Have to pick up the kids by 2 p.m.? Or get to lacrosse practice by 4?

Karl Chevrolet’s service team has you covered.

Honesty. Integrity. Service. Trust. Since 1927.

Save the date: 11/26/2019 - Come see the all-new 2020 Corvette at Karl Chevrolet!

261 ELM STREET • NEW CANAAN 203.966.9508 • KARLCHEVY.COM

Bob Capazzo Photography

Karl Chevrolet, a third-generation family business, has been serving the automotive needs of Fairfield County since 1927. While automotive styles and trends have certainly evolved over the past ninety years, Karl’s commitment to personalized, professional customer service has been a constant. In sales, you will still deal with one sales consultant from vehicle selection right through vehicle delivery.

The dealership has won numerous awards, including recent Dealer Rater Connecticut Chevrolet Dealer of the Year. Located less than a block from the New Canaan Metro North Station,

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DARIEN 2019

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LOCAL NEIGHBORHOOD STORAGE

Hollow Tree Self Storage

Bob Capazzo Photography

Back row: Tim Wood, Robert Wood, Julio Solis and Jack Keane Front row: John Hertz, Maria Hernandez, Holly Homes and Paul Hertz Hollow Tree Self Storage distinguishes themselves from other facilities, simply by their design! Brand new state-of-the-art building, sustainable, most modern architecture and amenities offer customers and also excellent customer service at competitive market prices.

In addition, they are not just a high-rise building — HTSS also has ground-level drive-up door units available.

Security is very important and all units are individually alarmed with extended access hours to the facility.

It is their goal to build relationships with their

customers and community; and to be the preferred local partner in self-storage and an asset to the community as they pride themselves in providing both the best modern state of the art facility and outstanding management team. Hollow Tree Self Storage is focused on building their brand and reputation and excited to be part of this great community!

131 HOLLOW TREE RIDGE ROAD • DARIEN 203.655.2018 • HOLLOWTREESTORAGE.COM

HISTORY

IN THE MAKING

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n location at The Little Red Schoolhouse—a New Canaan landmark restored as a museum by the New Canaan Historical Society—this year’s list of local scholars were juxtaposed against this old-world backdrop. The school opened in 1868 and was the last operating one-room schoolhouse in Connecticut when it closed in 1957. These savvy teens marveled at educational artifacts, a few lamented about today’s technology, wistful for the face-to-face communication of previous generations. These modern scientists, athletes, actors, musicians and future leaders are passionate about what they do and deserving of their designation as “Teens to Watch.” by elizabeth hole

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p h oto s b y k y l e n o r t o n

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hair and makeup by jul salon

above: Phoebe Kurth, Patrick Howard, Grace Flanagan, Thomas “TK” King, Mia Sparks, Anna Thérèse Mehra, Henry Foster, Gerard “Jerry” Rutigliano, Marina Stefanoni

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The best part about competitive skiing is…

The freedom I feel when I’m racing. There’s nothing holding you back. I don’t focus on what could happen or go wrong. I don’t think about schoolwork or stressors in my life. It’s just skiing—and it’s definitely exhilarating.

My job was leading a group of 12 middle-school girls through activities and bonding. The whole aspect of LiveGirl is building confident leaders and establishing that girls are capable and can do anything they want. LiveGirl gives them the power to achieve success.

My biggest struggle so far was…

Dealing with my friend Nate’s suicide last March.

He was 15. I skied with Nate in Vermont, and he was one of my really close friends. I never thought it would happen to someone I knew, but a lot of positive things have come out of this. Now, I’m more aware of the little signs that make you think twice about someone’s wellbeing. I spoke at my school about suicide prevention.

It’s an uncomfortable conversation, but it needs to happen. The stigma is where the problem starts.

I really admire…

Lindsay Vonn. She taught me that no matter how many bumps, bruises and broken bones you have, you’re able to come back and be successful at what you do.

Foreign language I can’t wait to use in real life…

Latin. My friends andI joke that it’s more of a cult than a class, because so few kids take Latin.

HEADSHOTS CONTRIBUTED, ILLUSTRATION BY KATHLEEN GODBOLD

I give back by…

Volunteering to mentor for LiveGirl and I was a camp counselor there over the summer.

That experience helped me to give back by…

Working on a program that

PHOEBE KURTH St. Luke’s School, class of 2020

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019 NEW CANAAN•DARIEN

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spreads awareness about suicide and mental illness, recognizing warning signs and providing resources for people in need. To honor Nate’s memory, I helped organize the Nathan M. Carreira Memorial Race in Stratton, Vermont. Over 230 racers signed up. We had sponsors, donors, a raffle and I made a video on YouTube to get people to sign up. We ordered custom bibs and T-shirts for the racers. It was an incredible experience. The event benefited an endowment fund set up by Nate’s mom with the Stratton Community Foundation.

She’s my role model, and without a doubt, the strongest woman I know.

The most memorable trip I’ve done was…

Hiking over 75 miles with NOLS [National Outdoor Leadership Program] for 21 days in Wyoming. It was an eye-opening experience and the real deal…sleeping in tents, cooking meals, carrying all your food and supplies in a backpack.

There were no bathrooms or showers. I made friends for life on that trip. Some of the best days of my life.

PATRICK HOWARD

Words to live by...

Keep your footing and have a strong sense of place.

Greens Farms Academy, Class of 2019 In the fall I’m…

Attending Dartmouth College.

I wanted a place with flexibility.

I’m not sure what my major is yet, but I always leaned toward STEM in high school and might continue that path.

My parents taught me…

About making time for family.

There’s something admirable about the ability to work hard all day, but then drop everything to spend time with your family.

That’s helped me with balancing things. I admire them a lot.

My biggest challenge was…

Doing my first solo flight. A wall of snow came along, so I had to turn around and do the flight out of Westchester airport, which is in JFK’s air space. Being a 17-yearold pilot and making all these decisions myself was challenging.

In terms of positive things, being scared and uncomfortable is a point of growth. Jumping out of my comfort zone helped move along my flight training.

I love acting and my first stage debut was…

“Alice in Wonderland” in fifth grade. I’ve been in other school plays like “Bye Bye Birdie,” “Spamalot,” “Oklahoma!” and “Rosencrantz and Guildenstern Are Dead.”

My career role model is…

Elon Musk. He takes on things that could possibly fail, but he has such a drive to completion.

He inspired a school project of mine. I pursued an independent STEM project as a technological response to gun violence in American schools. I designed nonthreatening, kinetic classroom furniture that can transform into a bulletproof shelter. I found joy in taking the advanced scientific topics I needed to learn—kinetic carpentry, ballistic technology,

CAD modeling, rotational dynamics—and transforming them into a simply designed, familiar product that anyone can use.

I give back to the community…

As co-president of GFA’s Community Service Club, part of my role was ensuring there was enough manpower and resources at school events.

We worked on an annual charity concert called Harmony for the Homeless, a school-wide sports event called Pack the House, a Thanksgiving food drive and a holiday gift drive. At Sherwood Island State Park, I did maintenance with my school advisory, including vine removal, weeding and sawing away dead branches. Lastly, my all-male a capella group—the Beachside Express—has an annual SingAround Day, where we travel to area senior centers and perform for free.

I give back abroad…

During my semester at the Island School in Cape Eleuthera, Bahamas, I was responsible for cistern supervision, daily measurements and informing community members about water conservation performance.

At the boathouse, I cleaned bottoms of boats in dive gear, organized scuba gear and refilled air tanks. For the duration of the semester, I was partnered with a student from the program’s joint middle school. We participated in educational talks, entertained and mentored the middle schoolers, did team-building activities and sports, worked on marine biology activities and finished with a jamboree.

I multitask by…

Writing things down. I use anything from a notebook to a great app called Todoist. newcanaandarienmag.com

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LIFE

Expressed.

The love of music, theater, and creative arts gives depth and luster to the heart and soul of all truly human experience. For each and every one of our boys, that love begins early. It takes a host of joyful forms. And it lasts a lifetime.

Preparing boys for life since 1902.

VISIT

BrunswickSchool.

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to learn more and register for our fal l Open House

GRACE FLANAGAN Sacred Heart Greenwich, Class of 2019 In college…

I’m going to sail at Georgetown University.

At Georgetown I’m going to study…

Government courses.

I love problem solving, analyzing things and solving cases. I’m interested in public service and possibly working in the government.

Sailing to me is…

My life. It’s honestly what I’m most passionate about. I’m also an intellectual at heart.

The physics of sailing, the strategy and the tactics really excite me.

My bucket list consists of…

Skydiving. Setting foot on every continent.

Iceland is definitely on my bucket list.

The biggest challenge in my life so far was…

During my freshman year, I was diagnosed with gastroparesis that hit out of nowhere. It’s a rare motility disease, and I lost 40 pounds very suddenly.

I couldn’t eat solid food

I don’t want an illness to prevent a kid from being a kid.

for six months. I played lacrosse, field hockey and basketball, but I didn’t have the strength I once had. It was tough to lose everything that had once mattered to me. After that setback, I found other paths I wouldn’t have ventured down—like sailing and philanthropy.

I was treated at Boston Children’s Hospital and will be forever grateful for their help.

My hidden talent is…

Decorating cupcakes.

In another life, I’d have a bakery and go on “Cupcake Wars.”

When it comes to technology…

I’m not a big texter.

I love picking up the phone and calling people or having someone talk to me in person.

Sometimes I wish I was growing up in my parents’ age, because I like the face-to-face communication with people.

How did that experience turn into philanthropy?

I reflected on what helped me overcome gastroparesis. I decided if I can’t be the person who cures it, I want to be the person to support kids going through it.

One day I walked into the New Canaan Community Foundation and told them I wanted to start a foundation. I did a couple fundraisers and it took off from there. It’s called Pediatric Gastrointestinal Illness Foundation (PGIF), and we raise funds for programs and research as well as patient and family support at Boston Children’s Hospital.

Advice for my younger self…

Everything that is happening is leading you to where you need to be. There’s a plan for you. Just go with it and always follow your passion. Never settle.

I spent my summer…

Coaching sailing at Riverside Yacht Club.

I really loved being on t he water all day helping kids love sailing as much as I do.

Words to live by…

“Have courage and be kind.”

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Above & Beyond

Innovative teachers turn blah, blah, blah into... Aha! Abby Abbott uses technology to connect modern students to ancient history—creating endless aha! moments. Watch Abby’s magic at www.stlukesct.org/greatteachers.

Open Houses - Join Us! Middle School - Sunday, October 20 Upper School - Sunday, October 27 www.stlukesct.org/visit St. Luke’s is a secular, college preparatory day school for grades 5-12 and a Best Private High School in CT - niche.com 203.801.4833 | 377 North Wilton Road, New Canaan, CT 06840

THOMAS “TK” KING

The Orphaned Starfish Foundation (OSF) has allowed me to do this.

During spring break the past two years, I’ve been able to work at an orphanage in Colombia. We played soccer with the kids, gave English lessons and taught them about computers in the OSF computer lab.

The King School, Class of 2020

I give back locally by…

Teaching kids soccer at the DOMUS center in Stamford, which helps at-risk youth.

Last year, I also had a job taking care of the lower school kids at King. These opportunities allowed me to share my love of soccer with kids closer to home.

One interesting fact about me is…

My twin sister and I were born in London. We lived there for 12 years because of my dad’s work. I was at an international school, so I didn’t pick up a full English accent.

A great life lesson I’ve learned…

Don’t focus on other people.

It makes things a lot more difficult and doesn’t get you anywhere.

My role models are…

My parents. They taught me the values I hold close every day in my sports and academics. My dad was an incredible athlete growing up. He taught me to be competitive and work hard.

My mom supports me in everything I do and pushes me to do the best I can.

Tell us about the Stanford summer program…

Living on this campus gave me a feel for what college would be like, and it was really fun. We studied brain diseases and I did a project on Parkinson’s disease, which my grandmother has. I may be interested in studying neuroscience in college.

My biggest challenge so far was…

When I first got to high school, I was really small— and by far the smallest kid on the soccer field.

Thankfully, I was able to overcome my size and make an impact on the team my freshman year.

I ended up starting that whole season and was selected to be captain my sophomore year. It was a difficult challenge because soccer is a very physical sport, and speed and size have a lot to do with the game.

I’m inspired by…

Eminem. I find that hard work and competitiveness are at my core, and his songs really portray that message.

In college I hope to major in…

Math, science and economics are definitely strong possibilities. I would love to find a way to combine these interests beyond college. If I can find a college that I really like and can also play soccer, that’s the dream.

I give back by…

Sharing my passion for soccer with others.

My service work with

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“

If you want to see how tall a building is going to be, look how deep the foundation is.

“

A Prek-12 co-ed independent school in westport, CT

Greens Farms Academy’s Class of 2019 matriculated to:

Barnard College Boston College Brown University (3) University of California, San Diego University of Chicago Claremont McKenna College Colby College (4) Colgate University College of the Holy Cross (4) College of William & Mary (2) Colorado College University of Connecticut Connecticut College (2) Cornell University Dartmouth College (3) Dickinson College Duke University Elon University

Emory University (2) Fordham University The George Washington University Georgetown University Gettysburg College Hamilton College University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign Johns Hopkins University Kenyon College Lafayette College Loyola University Maryland University of Michigan Middlebury College Northwestern University (2) University of Pennsylvania (2) Pitzer College Pomona College

Rhode Island School of Design University of Richmond (2) Santa Clara University Skidmore College University of Southern California (2) Stanford University Syracuse University Temple University Tufts University (3) United States Military Academy at West Point Vanderbilt University University of Vermont (2) Villanova University University of Virginia Wake Forest University (2) Williams College (2)

MIA SPARKS

Darien High School, Class of 2020

Words to live by...

Never give up, make it happen and pay attention to details.

Why I love the piano…

I’ve been playing piano since I was 5. I love to sit down and play whatever I feel like that day—from pop songs to classical. Music has always been a part of my life.

Accomplishment I’m proud of…

My Skyliners team competed in the World Junior Synchronized Skating Championships last year in Croatia, and we won a world silver medal. It was the first time the U.S. medaled in that discipline at that level.

Right now I’m listening to…

Classic rock. I like Led Zeppelin, Pink Floyd, Dire Straits, Guns N’ Roses and Nirvana. My dad grew up listening to that music, so he’ll sometimes suggest a band or song.

Learning the Japanese language to me is…

Important for me to keep my heritage. Going to Japanese school every Saturday immerses me in that world and keeps up my speaking and writing skills.

If I didn’t speak Japanese, I couldn’t communicate with my grandparents in Tokyo.

If I had more time…

I would hang out with my friends more.

year, I look forward to spreading the love and enjoyment of figure skating. I love seeing how much these kids improve in just one day.

It’s inspiring to see children, who were initially reluctant to let go of the wall, pushing themselves and skating on their own by the end of the session. I also volunteer at the Atria senior center in Darien, where I perform on the piano once a month. I enjoy being able to express my love for music, while also helping out in my community.

I give back with…

Kids Helping Kids, I provide inner city children with skating opportunities. We help get their skates on, skate with them and, hopefully, inspire them. I’ve been doing this for over five years. Every

My role models are…

My parents. They both have characteristics and traits I aspire to have. There are so many, but I think that communicating, being on top of things and staying organized are all important life skills to have.

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My biggest challenge so far has been…

When I leave for international skating competitions, it’s a challenge to miss a week’s worth of lectures. It was especially hard during my junior year with AP courses. Two years ago, I wouldn’t have been as prepared as I am now. I’ve found the best way to go about things and have learned from my experiences.

My parents help guide me…

My mom definitely found the right balance of being involved in my sports and skating, but also letting me decide what I wanted to do. After I chose skating, she pushed me to get better and that definitely helped me.

Greenwich Country Day School Learning that matters: Nursery - 12th grade Preparing young people to learn, lead, and thrive in a world of rapid change From nursery to grade 12, learning at Greenwich Country Day School is challenging, relevant, and purposeful.

Through inquiry, analysis, public speaking, transdisciplinary experiences, and opportunities to present their work in exhibitions and apply their learning to real-world situations, GCDS students gain a strong academic foundation and

Open House Grades 9 - 12 10/22 • 7 p.m.

Grades N - 8 10/27 • 1 p.m.

To RSVP for an Open House and for more information ↗ gcds.net/admissions ↗ 203-863-5610 ↗ admissions@gcds.net ↗ 401 Old Church Road Greenwich CT 06830

acquire critical skills, habits of mind, and confidence.

A co-educational, independent, Nursery – Grade 12 school located in Greenwich, CT, GCDS is a/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\ joyful environment where \/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/ curiosity and/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\ creativity are valued, \/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/ resilience is cultivated, and the health /\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\ \/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/ /\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\ and well-being of every student is essential.

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My secret talent is...

I can recite the Periodic Table of Elements on demand.

ANNA THÉRÈSE MEHRA New Canaan High School, Class of 2020

My future goal is to…

Get an M.D./Ph.D. to research and raise awareness of rare or “orphan diseases,” such as Sanfilippo syndrome and Batten disease, both of which affect young children. Rare diseases don’t have enough funding for research.

I would like to change that and be the voice for parents and those affected.

My favorite summer job is…

I’ve been a medical research assistant since the summer of tenth grade. I just finished my second summer of work on fibroblast growth factors at a major New York City medical center. I had the opportunity to present my findings to doctoral candidates and the lead

investigator. It was really thrilling.

I give back by…

Organizing, collecting and sending care packages—with medicine, blankets, toys and school supplies—to orphanages and to a community of people suffering from Hansen’s disease (leprosy) through the Daughters of Mary religious order in Tamil Nadu, India.

I’ve been doing this in various capacities since elementary school.

It is meaningful for me to do this work because having been raised with privilege, my life is enriched, and it’s certainly more meaningful to give back and to improve the lives of underprivileged men, women and children in India.

Although Hansen’s disease is considered by many to be yet

another rare disease, there are more than 100,000 new cases of leprosy reported every year in India.

Today, the disease is technically curable through antibiotics, but many of its damaging effects on human tissue are irreversible.

The most exciting performance I’ve ever experienced was when…

I had the amazing opportunity to perform a piano solo at Carnegie Hall twice. It was through my piano teacher, Raisa Kagramanova, who is a graduate of the Moscow State Tchaikovsky Conservatory.

The foreign language I love to study is…

Latin. I love the fact that it’s an ancient language that has thrived for so long. It’s also interesting to

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study how ancient culture ties to today. I use Latin in my science studies too. I’m president of the Latin Club, and next year, I’ll be tutoring Latin at Saxe Middle School.

Recent accomplishments I’m most proud of…

I received a perfect score on the ACT. I had three perfect scores on the National Latin Exam, which culminated in the Carter Stubbs Drake Goad Award. I also received The Maureen O’Donnell Oxford Classical Dictionary Award for Latin.

Next year…

I’ll be captain of the math team.

I’m the only female on the competing team.

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HENRY FOSTER Brunswick School, Class of 2020

My role models are…

My two brothers. Will is my older brother and super exuberant. He goes out and does everything he can…just has a love for life. Will can make a game out of anything, and he’s a lot of fun to hang around. George, my younger brother, is almost the opposite. He loves to play, but is calm, cool and collected. He’s just an all-around stud.

If I model myself after those two, I think I’ll be okay.

Communities. This charity takes in children who are disabled, homeless and orphaned.

That trip changed my outlook on life, because it made me realize how lucky I really am and how silly my problems are in perspective. When I stress over a math test, I think of my buddy Nico in the Jerusalem House on Jamaica who is paralyzed from the waist down, has AIDS and is never not smiling. If he can be positive, I can too.

My biggest life challenge is…

Time management.

I play three varsity sports, so it’s a big time commitment.

When it comes to technology I like to…

Keep everything in moderation. Social media for the most part is a benefiting factor, but it’s not meant to be a serious endeavor. Don’t get too caught up in it.

How kids build grit and resilience…

Let them fail. Brunswick has taught me how to fail, but to keep moving forward. It’s good to fall short a few times. At least for me, it jump starts me and motivates me.

The trip that changed my life was…

A service trip to Jamaica with Mustard Seed

I really hope to travel to…

Greece. I’ve studied Latin since the sixth grade and Greek since sophomore year. The whole ancient culture fascinates me.

The language is like a puzzle with the endings, and I enjoy that part of it.

Advice you would give to younger students…

Don’t be afraid to do what you want to do.

People get wrapped up in what’s cool or not.

My friend was the varsity quarterback and also the lead in our school musical. Everyone’s applauded him for it.

I multitask by…

Trying not to multitask.

I believe in clean time and doing one thing at a time, blocking out distractions.

As soon as I put my phone down and my headphones on, I zone in and take it one step at a time. That makes it a lot less stressful than trying to do ten things at once.

When I’m older I hope to…

Stay in touch with my friends because they’ve been really good to me over the years. Also, I want to score a couple of goals in a men’s hockey league. My dad is a hockey dad—one of the best of them.

One more thing…

Can I say, “I love you, Mom” and “Thank you” somewhere in the magazine? She’s amazing and really impressive—way more impressive than me.

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My role model is…

My great-grandfather Vitantonio Rutigliano. He came to America without a lot, extending himself in areas where he wasn’t comfortable to make it here. He got injured working in the West Virginia coal mines and went to New York City.

Since he couldn’t do any labor, he made a living in a laundromat pressing clothes. Being able to extend myself the way he did— with the same work ethic—would be my goal.

I’m passionate about…

Music, lacrosse and the debate team. I like a lot of different things, and fortunately, I have parents who have allowed me to pursue them.

I’ve taken a liking to…

Digital music. My band teacher, Mr. Valera, offers a class on it. I like to make music in my free time using the skills he taught me. It’s a great stress reliever.

In the future I plan to…

Consider a degree in law. I could see myself doing something in business, because I like interacting with people. Comedy writer is the dream job.

My biggest challenge thus far…

During my freshman year, I tore my ACL and both meniscuses after making the varsity lacrosse team.

I came back after being benched 11 months. It rocked everything and put things into a different perspective, especially since one of my dreams is to play lacrosse in college.

I give back by…

When I got to high school, I focused on the Stamford Historical Society because I enjoy educating the community on the colonial era. The only way to build a better future is to look back on our history. This means a lot to me, as I’m preserving pieces of humanity’s story by educating others on New England’s original settlers. As a docent, I give tours of the Hoyt-Barnum house—a

GERARD “JERRY” RUTIGLIANO St. Luke’s School, Class of 2020

Jude’s Children’s Hospital.

historical home preserved since the 1700s.

My advice for younger students…

Make sure you’re learning for the sake of learning and not just trying to get a result.

Tell us about the youth association…

I’m active in the Greek Orthodox Youth Association (GOYA), which is a tight-knit community. We support local charities, adopt families in need for the holidays and make fleece blankets for St.

Some people may be surprised to know that…

I don’t love social media. I don’t

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feel like I need to be looking at other people’s lives all the time.

Parents can provide guidance by…

Knowing that people are most successful at what they enjoy doing.

Don’t put an image on your kids of what you think they should be. Let them pursue what they like. It’s much easier to succeed if you enjoy what you’re doing and feel passionate about it.

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8/2/19 1:00 PM

MARINA STEFANONI Darien High School, Will graduate early in 2020 My goal right now is…

Combining junior and senior year to graduate a year early and play squash in college. After college, I want to play professional squash.

What is your current world ranking for squash?

My current Professional World Ranking, is 72.

My highest world ranking has been 69.

I just finished the…

World Junior Squash Championships in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. There’s an individual and team event. This is the biggest tournament you can win as a junior. My little sister came, because she made the team too. We had a few days to sightsee.

Kids build grit and resilience by…

Having them do competitions, whether it’s kindergarten basketball

others participate when they otherwise might not.

Also, these organizations provide valuable educational support and guidance to inner city kids from the Bronx, Harlem and New Haven to help them achieve academic success.

The fundraising I did with NY Squash was for programming that benefited women in squash in the New York area.

or any sport. Since I’m an athlete, I have a bias toward sports, but I think they’re a good way to build character.

Interesting fact…

I’m a citizen of Guatemala.

My mom was born and grew up there, so I’m a dualcitizen.

I multitask by...

Doing one thing at a time, but I organize and plan ahead what I’m going to do—whether that’s an English essay, homework or class. I fit things in whenever I have free time and try not to procrastinate too much. If it happens, I stay up late. There’s always plenty of time in the night.

Tell us about Squash Forward…

It was an initiative to promote the sport prior to the decision for inclusion in the Olympics, which it unfortunately was not.

Nonetheless, by reaching out to younger players all over the world and sharing some of my experiences, I feel as though I have served as a role model and mentor.

I give back by…

Playing exhibition matches and helping fundraise for organizations like City Squash, Street Squash and Squash Haven make me feel like I am giving back to the sport I love by helping

My generation is different because…

We are focused more on being your own individual and breaking norms. Also, we question authority, which isn’t always a good thing, but people do and it’s a way to grow. The older generation would often follow rules and do what they’re told.

I think a combination of both generations would be optimal.

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by timothy dumas

T R AF F I C K

STOP

If you think we’re immune to HUMAN TRAFFICKING , consider this: one of the most downloaded pornographic photos in the world was taken of an eight-year-old girl RIGHT HERE IN FAIRFIELD COUNTY

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K

rishna Patel, a former federal prosecutor in Connecticut, and Rod Khattabi, a former special agent based in the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s New Haven office, are two of the state’s leading authorities on human trafficking. They are sitting in the tea pavilion at

Grace Farms in New Canaan, talking about trafficking cases they have worked here in leafy, affluent Fairfield County; they are talking about pimps, johns and assorted creeps; about massage parlors, strip bars and nail salons; about assignations between Jeffrey Epstein-aged men and girls as young as 12 at hotels and motels in our Gold Coast towns. “This happens in Greenwich,” Patel says. “It happens in Fairfield. It happens in Westport and in all of these towns.”

Let’s begin with the case of Theodore Briggs of Norwalk. Only 23 years old in 2011, the year he was arrested, Briggs lived an unaccountably posh lifestyle, tooling about in a Hummer and a BMW and dressing himself in Gucci clothing. He hoped to be a rapper and looked the part, but in fact the cars and the clothing, not to mention the wads of cash he carried, had been earned by his stable of prostitute-victims.

In the lexicon of his trade, Briggs was a “Romeo pimp,” one who woos and flatters girls into his fold, rather than a “gorilla pimp,” who rules by violence, usually with the help of a “bottom bitch,” a female right hand who sits atop the prostitute hierarchy. “He was a really smooth, savvy pimp,” recalls Khattabi, who led the Briggs investigation.

“He never brutalized his girls.” Briggs had the pimp’s knack for scenting out vulnerable young women, girls who had come from broken homes or suffered from poor self-esteem. “He would groom them and sort of become their boyfriend.” Khattabi gazes out the pavilion’s broad glass windows to the tranquil fields beyond. He has a granite face and deep-set eyes that lend him an intimidating air; it’s a relief to discover that he’s a gentle, jovial soul. “When we interviewed these girls, they felt like we were destroying their lives,” he says. “Because this was a guy who’s been so good to them, okay? He was providing them with what we think of as a family.

And they were glad to give him the money. All the money.”

At least two of Briggs’s girls were under eighteen years old. In other words, they were trafficked, since the law presumes a minor can’t engage in prostitution voluntarily. (State law prohibits those under eighteen from being prosecuted for prostitution—a fairly recent and much lauded change.) One of Briggs’s girls kept a diary in which she sketched hearts and flowers, as befit her age: fourteen. In the diary she noted with heartbreaking approval, “He was the one who turned me into a real ho.”

Briggs sold the girls in the new way: over the internet. His venue of choice was backpage.com, a notorious classified advertising website that held a virtual monopoly on internet prostitution. Federal agencies shuttered Backpage last year, but numerous imitation sites have popped up to fill the demand. “Come and do anything you want to me. I love getting it everywhere,” runs a typical ad on a Backpage imitator called Bedpage, under the heading “Connecticut, Bridgeport.” Interested parties click the link, send a text, and the transaction is carried out at a (probably) unwitting hotel or motel in the vicinity. (In 2016, Connecticut became the first state to require hotel and motel staff to be trained to spot trafficking; Patel helped draft the law, but admits that it’s still an uphill battle. Trafficking occurs in hotels from Greenwich to the Berlin Turnpike outside Hartford, she says, and all the way up to the casinos at the eastern end of the state.)

“It’s like ordering a pizza,” observes Elizabeth Boolbol, who founded the Greenwich-based Partnership to End Human Trafficking, or PEHT, in 2015. “You can order a woman to your hotel room. You don’t have to stand out on 42nd Street and proposition somebody.”

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Khattabi found that Briggs had received 6,000 text messages from with labor trafficking later) happens in myriad ways, not all of them gritty clients in six weeks, and that those clients lived all over the county, includand streetwise. Indeed, trafficking could be going on in the house next door. ing in Greenwich and Westport, and as far away as Atlantic City. In 2012 Take the case of William Oehne. In 2004 Oehne was a truck driver Judge Janet C. Hall sentenced Briggs to ten years in prison. “You took living in Stamford and dating a woman who lived in Greenwich with her children who had no idea of this life and ruined theirs,” she told him. “I eight-year-old daughter. Oehne moved in. Then came the grooming—the have difficulty comprehending how one person can sell another.” gradual bending of a victim to the perpetrator’s will—done with gifts and Patel, the founding director of Grace Farms Foundation’s Justice Initiapromises and subtle threats, as he moved to sexualize the relationship. tive, is a petite woman with luxuriant, coffee-dark hair. She prosecuted Oehne’s process began with the flaunting of his “nudist philosophy.” He many cases that Khattabi—Grace Farms Foundation’s Global Justice would walk around naked in front of the girl, or surprise her as a “prank” Training Director and Risk Officer—investigated, including the Briggs when she was taking a shower. He’d show her pornography. He told her case. “The thing that was so heinous,” she says, “was that Backpage actushe could be a model. He began touching her sexually and persuading her ally became complicit, masking the fact that these girls were minors.” How to pose nude for his camera. He took explicit photos of the girl over the so? Backpage would delete transparently coded ad lingo like “Lolita” and course of three years, and those photos found an avid following among “Amber alert,” and thereby cover up the fact that it was enabling a brisk pedophiles, turning up in 3,300 criminal investigations in the United trade in child rape.

States alone.

Strange to say that Briggs’s victims could have been less lucky: They But the big break came from overseas. “French Interpol figured out that could have fallen prey to a gorilla pimp like Corey “Magnificent” Davis, the number one downloaded [pornographic] image in the entire world one of Patel’s most memorable cases. “He’d gang rape these girls,” she says. “He’d beat them. He’d cut them.”

And he’d stomp on them with his Timberland boots, or his “Tims,” as he liked to call them.

One of Davis’s victims was a twelve-year-old runaway from New York. Though based at Bishop’s Corner Café, a strip club in Bridgeport, her meetings with johns took place at hotels up and down Connecticut’s I-95 corridor. Often Davis required her to work twelve hours and bring in a thousand dollars a day. “When we went to the strip club in Bridgeport he began videotaping himself raping an to confirm that that’s where she was working,” Patel says, “they told us she would come in with a teddy eight-year-old girl who lived in fairfield. bear.” And when she was placed in protective custody for a period, “she asked for Harry Potter books.”

Davis kept some of his victims confined to a twofamily house owned by his mother in Queens, New York. One girl, a seventeen-year-old, initially went there (she thought) to look at an apartment offered for rent. Davis seized her cell phone and ID and locked her in the house. So began this young woman’s life of forced prostitution. Working out of Bridgeport’s Pleasant Moments strip club, she suffered regular beatings at Davis’s hands; sometimes Davis hit her with a handgun, and once he put the muzzle in her mouth.

She told investigators, “I had to tell people I fell off the stage because I had so many bruises on my ribs, face and legs .… I have a permanent twitch in my eye from him hitting me in my face so much. I have none of my irreplaceable things from my youth.”

Davis is serving twenty-five years in prison.

COURTESY OF GRACE FARMS FOUNDATION

When Rod Khattabi is asked what his most memorable case was, he says “Sensi,” and goes quiet for a moment. Edgardo Sensi, a stout man with graying curls and a goatee, was working in Westport in the early 2000s when

EVEN CLOSER TO HOME Stories like these may seem far removed from any experience a Greenwich girl or boy is likely to have. And they are. Sort of. But sex trafficking (we’ll deal

Rod Khattabi at Grace Farms

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was an image of this girl, and they thought from the background that she must be American,” says Patel, who prosecuted Oehne. Interpol had magnified the photo and discovered in the background a commemorative plate with a girl’s first name and her apparent birth date. The FBI and the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children, together with the Greenwich Police Department, astutely traced her to Greenwich. (Greenwich Captain of Detectives Robert Berry gives particular credit to Detective Christy Girard.) Investigation showed that Oehne’s crimes might have gone deeper but for the girl’s resistance: Under questioning, Oehne admitted that he and a male porn actor took her to a hotel in Stamford.

She refused to go inside.

After his arrest, Oehne “shamefully tried to claim that it was in fact the minor victim who seduced him and even suggested that he was powerless to refuse,” said the prosecution’s sentencing memo. In 2011 Oehne was convicted of sexual assault and creating and disseminating child pornography, and sentenced to forty-five years in prison.

But did he traffick the girl? Here we come to an evolving definition of what trafficking means. Robert Berry says that Oehne’s crimes, though “a tragic example of the horrors that can be exacerbated through the internet,” do not constitute human trafficking by Connecticut law, and he’s right. Krishna Patel says that federal law sees the matter more broadly, and she’s right, too.

According to the groundbreaking Trafficking Victim Protection Act of 2000, minor sex trafficking is “the recruitment, harboring, transportation, provision or obtaining” of a person under eighteen for “a commercial sex act.” A commercial sex act is defined as “anything of value,” and pornography certainly qualifies. (Patel says Oehne could have been charged

federally with sex trafficking, but that, in this case, the child pornography charges were more straightforward.)

The essence of both sex and labor trafficking is exploitation—compelled work, Patel says. In producing pornographic photos, William Oehne coerced his young victim into doing “work” that had commercial value. The photos are still circulating today. As U.S. Attorney David B. Fein observed, the girl “will continue to be victimized by traders and viewers of child pornography for the rest of her life.”

Tammy Sneed, the director of the Connecticut Department of Children and Families’ Human Anti-Trafficking Response Team (HART), laments that efforts to align state law with federal law at the trafficking-pornography nexus have failed in our legislature. “It’s been very painful,” she says. “We’ve tried for the last couple of years to change it. Hopefully we will this term.”

When Rod Khattabi is asked what his most memorable case was, he says “Sensi,” and goes quiet for a moment. Edgardo Sensi, a stout man with graying curls and a goatee, was working in Westport in the early 2000s when he began videotaping himself raping an eight-year-old girl who lived in Fairfield. “He was an executive with a big travel company, and he was an opera singer. He sang in church. He had a YouTube video of himself singing ‘Ave Maria,’ beautifully.” Khattabi shakes his head.

“What really disturbed me,” he continues, “was the violence he used.”

Beyond the rape itself? “I don’t want to get too graphic. He used electrical wires on her private parts. She was screaming in the video.”

It gets worse. The girl’s mother was fully complicit, coaching her daughter how to touch Sensi and perform oral sex on him. Khattabi later had a chance to question the woman. “I asked, ‘As a mother, how can you do this?’ I was really puzzled. ‘You gave birth to this girl.’ I’ll always remember this—she said, ‘Look at me.’ She was pretty heavy; she had such low self-esteem. ‘Look at me.

I just didn’t want to lose him.’”

Patel recalls the day in 2008 that they arrested enslaved in the mother and pulled the daughter, then in ninth grade, out of school. “I sent a team in to interview her,” she says. “The entire time, she denied anything had happened.”

This girl was not Sensi’s only victim. In 2004, Sensi traveled to Nicaragua with a small charitable organization based in Fairfield County.

He befriended a nineteen-year-old maid from a destitute town outside Managua, showered her with gifts and money, and promised her family that he would marry her. But, reminding the maid that he was “a powerful man,” Sensi trafficked her—coerced her to have sex with other men. The woman had a four-year-old daughter. Once in Fairfield County, Sensi used his relationship with the mother to molest the daughter, the mother again taking part. Yet another victim said she had twice attempted suicide.

In 2012 this so-called “Hitler of child pornography” was sentenced to life in prison; the girl’s mother was given what Patel considers a lenient eight years. (She and Khattabi report that, with extensive therapy,

Krishna Patel

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CONTRIBUTED

Roughly 40 million humans are some fashion—more than any other time in history, according to the Polaris Project, which seeks to eradicate global human trafficking.

RED FLAGS SPECIFIC BEHAVIORS THAT CAN SHED LIGHT ON A VERY DARK SITUATION

We typically think of the sex-trafficked kid as a runaway. To be sure, runaways are in acute danger of being trafficked.

“Studies show that within forty-eight hours of running away, a third have been approached by a trafficker,” Tammy Sneed, director of the Connecticut Department of Children and Families’ Human Anti-Trafficking Response Team (HART), informs us. “And one in seven are pulled into ‘the life,’” as prostitution is colloquially known. If a runaway were to alight at a busy traveling hub like the Port Authority in New York, she would be approached by a trafficker in a matter of seconds.

But most victims never leave their parents’ homes. HART keeps statistics on trafficked Connecticut minors (or possibly trafficked, because certain cases take months to sort out), and so can tell us that of the 212 minors referred to it in 2017, 141 lived with a parent or guardian, and only twenty-six were runaways or otherwise AWOL. Another twenty-two lived in foster care at the time of their possible trafficking. (Almost a quarter of the 2017 referrals, forty-nine of the 212, came from our neck of the woods, coastal Fairfield County.) There are doubtless hundreds of trafficked teens who never enter HART’s orbit, given the hidden nature of sex trafficking, but the statistics do give us an understanding of one important fact: Our teens can be trafficked while they’re living under our roofs, and we are none the wiser.

things to notice at home.

• Frequent unexplained absences, even brief ones • Disappearing for a weekend • New clothing or items that the child can’t afford • New hairstyles and manicures that the child can’t afford • The presence of a companion who answers for the child • A tattoo that the child is reluctant to explain, especially on the neck or lower back • Bruises, and medical and dental issues • Signs of malnourishment

to extend your awareness outside the home, these are the things to look for.

• At airports and hotels, the presence of a teen with an older man that does not appear to be a relative • Seemingly unaccompanied teens at busy rest stops, such as on I-95 • An adult who does not allow a teen or child to speak for themselves • In certain business establishments, notably nail salons, workers who appear timid and withdrawn • Workers whose responses to questions seem shallow and scripted

• A change in language to reflect “the life”

• Signs of excessive security measures, like security cameras and barred windows

• A change in demeanor: tense, anxious, secretive, defensive

• Signs of living quarters in an establishment

• Always carrying a bag with a change of clothes • Having more than one cell phone One or two of these things may not mean much in themselves; there is no foolproof checklist.

We have to look at our children whole, and pay attention to any gut uneasiness that tells us something is wrong.

• A boss who seems overly watchful and controlling The Polaris Project (polarisproject.org) runs the National Human Trafficking Hotline. If you need assistance, call the hotline at 888-373-7888, or text “befree” (233733).

Or, if you believe a child is being trafficked or suffering abuse or neglect, you can call the Connecticut DCF careline at 800-842-2288.

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the girl has recovered nicely.)

It’s not only girls who are trafficked. In Connecticut, the most diabolical of recent cases centers on Bruce Bemer of Glastonbury, a millionaire who paid for sex with young adult men procured by a Danbury trailer park resident named Robert King. King selected mentally ill and drugprone men at group homes and rehab centers from Stamford to Danbury and drew them into a cycle of predation: He would befriend them, press cocaine on them, run up their drug tab, then prostitute them to Bemer to pay it off—a kind of debt bondage. The young men said they were threatened with death if they told anyone; one of fifteen who came forward may have committed suicide. And yet, King told police, “My only crime is trying to help people.” (He pleaded guilty to human trafficking charges

stable families can find themselves gaining the attentions of a trafficker.

“Malls are where a lot of recruitment happens,” Elizabeth Boolbol says.

“Traffickers hang around malls because girls hang out there all the time.

It’s frightening. There’s this documentary where they interviewed a pimp in jail, and he’s talking about how he recruits these girls. He’ll say, ‘Oh my gosh, you’re so beautiful,’ and if the girl says thank you, he just sort of moves on. But if the girl sort of puts her head down and says, ‘No, I’m not,’ he’s like, ‘Boom—that’s the one.’ They start a conversation, they get a cup of coffee…” she trails off, sighing.

The trafficker makes himself a source of comfort and even love. “He tells the girl, ‘I know your mother sucks, I know your father sucks, but don’t worry, I’m here for you, I’ll give you what you need,’” Boolbol says.

He might secretly post her picture to Bedpage.

He might give her heroin. “Once that happens, there’s an addiction, and the addiction needs to 2.1 million child “chocolate be fed. And he says, ‘Just sleep with my friend slaves” in west africa, the source of and we’ll get some money, and we can get more heroin.’ Pretty soon she’s sleeping with five peo70 percent of the world’s cocoa ple and the trafficker has moved on. That’s the sad, awful story that happens in this country.”

A nasty variation on this story concerns the online world, says Alicia Kinsman, senior attorney for the Bridgeport-based Connecticut Institute for Refugees and Immigrants (CIRI), whose Project Rescue deals specifically with trafficking victims. A trafficker forms a relationship last year, and was sentenced to four and a half years in prison.) with a teen on social media, and over time persuades her to send sexually This past spring, a jury in Danbury convicted Bemer on four counts of explicit pictures or video. Then he betrays his true intent: “He’ll say, ‘I need patronizing a trafficked person and one count of criminal liability for trafyou to do this other thing, and if you don’t, I’m going to send your parents ficking a person; Judge Robin Pavia sentenced him to ten years in prison. the pictures and the video; I’m going to send it to everyone in your school.’”

While Bemer admits to using prostitutes supplied by King for more than The electronic universe, in fact, knows no boundaries. Krishna twenty years, he denies the more serious trafficking charge and is appealPatel says it has “collapsed” sex trafficking and child pornography ing the conviction. A civil suit, meanwhile, accuses Bemer of having uninto a truly evil thing: private live-cam sex clubs “where the only way protected sex with his victims while knowingly being infected with HIV. you can participate is by showing images of yourself abusing a child.

The Bemer-King case reflects a very twenty-first century understandThey know law enforcement can’t do that.” Some distant server beams ing of human trafficking. Before the Trafficking Victim Protection Act you into a private house in Russia or Ukraine, in Cambodia or Thaitook effect in 2001, Patel says, “we weren’t prosecuting these cases very land, and you get to watch the child abuse as it happens. “Some peowell,” because the idea of coercion was so narrowly construed. Psychople want very, very, very young children. Like babies. And they pay logical coercion wasn’t even a thing. To the contrary, the U.S. Supreme a lot of money. It’s just become a ridiculously disturbing world.”

Court, in what’s known as the Kozminski decision of 1988, ruled that THE BIGGER PICTURE “involuntary servitude” meant using violence or threats to secure the Though trafficking is an age-old practice, it strikes us as a twenty-first work, “what you think of in the transatlantic slave trade” of our brutal century phenomenon because it’s expanding so rapidly, and because we past, Patel says. In that worldview, Robert King would have gone free and have a better understanding of the staggering numbers: Roughly 40 milhis victims would have been arrested, since they weren’t physically forced lion humans are enslaved in some fashion—more than at any other time into prostitution but were “merely” desperate. in history, according to the Polaris Project, which seeks to eradicate global When we turn the discussion to minors, it’s not desperation so much human trafficking. Trafficking is now the second largest criminal industry as vulnerability that leads down the trafficking rabbit hole. Adolescence in the world, after drug dealing. “It is so insanely profitable—much more itself is a vulnerability, of course. Add low self-esteem, or depression, or profitable than weapons or drugs, because you sell ‘the product’ multiple ostracization from a friend group, and quite suddenly even kids from

There are about

.

Some of these children were abducted from their villages; many were sold into slavery for as little as thirty dollars.

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times a day,” Elizabeth Boolbol says. “There really is no cost of goods, Contrary to popular belief, many trafficked laborers enter the country it’s just recruitment.” A look of revulsion briefly crosses her face. “And legally, on temporary worker visas. One woman Project Rescue worked demand is sooo high.” But most Americans, ignorant of the scope of the with, a Filipina, came legally as a nanny to a foreign family living temproblem, do not rank it as a pressing concern. “We have to get people to porarily in Easton. But when the family decided to stay permanently, stop thinking it’s only happening in India or Cambodia or Bangladesh. “they took her passport and ripped up the contract,” Kinsman says. “EvenThey need to know that it’s happening here, and it’s growing.” tually she escaped by literally running out the door.”

So far, we have dealt only with the sex trafficking of young Americans.

Project Rescue, established in 2006 to serve chiefly foreign-born trafThis is but one facet of the problem—the one we know best in Fairfield ficking victims, sees a startling range of cases. There are undocumented County. Another facet is the sex trafficking of internationals. Young kids put to work by an extended family member, or by someone who women from Eastern Europe—where trafficking is depressingly, brutally posed as one. There are foreign-born women enslaved by their citizen rampant—who come to the United States often end up being trafficked husbands. There are tree-cutters, tobacco-farm laborers, hotel workers. out of strip clubs, working off the debt to those who brought them here.

Not long ago, an undocumented middle-aged man, speaking little English “A lot of these women come from Russia or Romania thinking they’ll and having no money, walked through CIRI’s door after escaping from a Fairfield County horse farm. work as models or have some kind of better job,” Khattabi says. “Then all Though Project Rescue has not dealt with them in Connecticut, nail of a sudden they have to work in these strip joints.” (He notes that he’s salon workers are believed to be highly trafficked. “When we talk about done many “blitzes” in Bridgeport in tandem with local police. “We closed ‘typologies,’ we talk about industries that draw trafficking,” says Krishna down so many of them here in Connecticut, but they pop up again. I Patel. “Nail salons fall under the typologies in the trafficking world.” As don’t know what the solution is.”) with illicit spas, they are almost exclusively Asian, and some salons offer Asian women, particularly Chinese, North Korean and Vietnamese, (far more profitable) sex services on the sly. Of course, scads of laware trafficked not out of strip clubs, but massage parlors. “That entire abiding nail salons exist. But until May of this year, Connecticut invited illicit massage industry is thriving,” Krishna Patel says. “You can go on trafficking in salons by being the only state in the country that did not websites right now and you’re going to find it all through Connecticut. require an operating license or mandatory training.

Law enforcement goes into these chat rooms and will find the johns When labor trafficking is discovered, what is the fate of the trafactually giving ratings to all the women.” (In 2017 a massage parlor on ficked? It’s little understood that international human trafficking and Greenwich Avenue was busted for prostitution. Neither of the two employees arrested, Xue Mei Jiang and Yuhong Zeng, were found to be trafficked, said police, though both lived in Flushing, Queens, a nexus for Asian human we are consumers of goods made by trafficking.) slaves.

Alicia Kinsman, of CIRI, recalls a case of hers in which an undocumented woman from China anthis is every swered an ad in a Chinese newspaper: A massage apple, every samsung, every tesla, parlor in Connecticut was looking to hire. “She was desperate for work, desperate to survive,” Kinsman says. “If you’re undocumented, you don’t have that many options. What they wanted her to do was perform commercial sexual acts. She was threatened that if she objected, if she left, she would be arrested and deported. And so she stayed.” She was forced to immigration law are intimately braided. And so when the Trump adminlive in a virtual closet in the strip mall where she worked, security cameras istration dramatically tightened immigration policies (“America is full,” the monitoring all her movements. “Eventually she just ran out and down president declared), victims of trafficking took a direct hit. Many specific the strip mall, until she found somebody who helped her call the police.” policy changes appear to be small, and the public will never notice them— Human trafficking is sometimes called a crime “hidden in plain sight.” such as the new obstacles in applying for humanitarian visas. (The “T” visa This is especially true of labor trafficking, whose victims, usually foreignis specifically for trafficking victims; the “U” visa is for crime victims inborn, work in the metaphorical light of day, on farms, in factories, at concluding trafficked persons.) These obstacles terrify applicants. In the past, struction sites, in hotels and restaurants, on our lawns, in our neighbors’ a person who reports being trafficked but is denied a T visa would have homes. “The trafficking cases I’ve seen in Connecticut that are recent and other avenues to exhaust and could remain in the country; now, says Alicia active have been domestic servitude,” Kinsman says. “Individuals held in Kinsman, that person “will be put into removal proceedings.” Worse, say deplorable conditions in wealthy households in lower Fairfield County.”

“

Our tech toys—computers, cell phones and electric cars—top the list … “ ” says Krishna Patel. “And they are not doing anything to clean up the supply chains.”

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A MODERN-DAY ABOLITIONIST they’re acting of their own accord and have a strange, Stockholm syndrome–like attachment to their pimps.)

The women at Thistle Farms do two-year residencies; they’re provided the basics, like food, healthcare and clothing, and a loving space to heal. They also learn new job skills. The women manufacture healthful bath, beauty and home products sold under the now-national Thistle Farms brand. (The women can continue working for Thistle Farms after their residencies are over.) “That’s the model that Thistle Farms has been doing for twenty years, and they’ve had like a 95 percent success rate, which is unheard of in this arena.”

In the United States, roughly 100,000 young people are sex trafficked each year. Given that number, there simply aren’t enough Thistle Farms– like places to go around, and so Becca Stevens encourages sister groups to help carry the mission.

The Partnership to End Human Trafficking is one such group. Its organizing strategy is to “educate, embrace, empower,” Boolbol says. “We have to galvanize the community if this is going to be a success.” Embrace the victims by opening a residence for them in Stamford or Norwalk in the very near future: “If a child

Elizabeth Boolbol (right) with Katie Nelson Troyerat at the inaugural Partnership to End Human Trafficking benefit

elizabeth koldyke boolbol is a tall, slender blonde with a background in public relations, marketing and real estate. She is also a devout Christian from a family steeped in doing civic good: Her parents, Mike and the late Pat Koldyke, are noted Chicago philanthropists with a particular interest in education and handgun control.

Boolbol’s area is human trafficking. The Greenwich resident founded the Partnership to End Human Trafficking (PEHT) after reading Nicholas Kristof and Sheryl WuDunn’s 2015 book A Path Appears, an account of humanitarians who are changing the world. One woman the authors profiled was Becca Stevens, founder of Thistle Farms in Nashville, a place of regeneration for

victims of prostitution and sex trafficking. Sex trafficking had seemed a distant issue to Boolbol then, as it does to many now. “But once you know about it,” says the married mother of four, “it’s hard to turn away.”

As for prostitution, “I grew up watching Pretty Woman, so I’m as guilty as anybody else” of not giving the subject serious thought.

But she began to wonder, was prostitution ever really voluntary? “Becca Stevens always says that there’s no such thing, really, as prostitution in the way we think about it—that a woman chooses to do this as a business, to make money.

What little girl says, ‘I want to be a prostitute when I grow up’?” (She notes that some trafficking victims think

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is trafficked, they go to DCF, the Department of Children and Families. But once that child is eighteen, there’s really nothing. That’s the gap we’re trying to address.”

And finally, empower the women through “social enterprise,” or dignified work that teaches them new skills, as Thistle Farms does. PEHT’s enterprise focuses on making and selling pet products, from essential oils and tick repellants to collars and leashes.

In May, Boolbol held a fundraiser at the First Presbyterian Church of Greenwich; it raised over $150,000 and drew more than 200 people. “They couldn’t believe this stuff is happening right here in Connecticut,” reports speaker Rod Khattabi of Grace Farms’ Justice Initiative; Khattabi is a former Homeland Security special agent who trains police all over the world to disrupt trafficking. “They were horrified.”

For many attendees, that night was when their education began; Boolbol hopes that they, like her, will now be unable to turn away from the scourge that is human trafficking.

Learn more about the Partnership to End Human Trafficking at peht.org.

MOFFLY MEDIA’S BIG PICTURE/JC MARTIN

TAKING ACTION RIGHT HERE IN GREENWICH

immigration lawyers, T visas are harder to get than ever.

One Project Rescue client now fighting deportation is from Central America’s perilous Northern Triangle. (Kinsman does not specify the country, but she would mean Guatemala, Honduras or El Salvador.)

“The only reason he’s in this position is because he came forward and reported what happened to him to law enforcement,” Kinsman says. Denied a T visa, the man’s prospects look bleak. If he goes back to the Triangle? “There’s a presumption that you have money. You were here, so you must’ve been working, so you must be rich. You’re a target for gangs to extort.”

The Trump administration’s aggressive stance has strained relations between Immigration and Customs Enforcement, or ICE, and do-good nonprofits like Project Rescue. ICE and such groups used to work harmoniously to establish the facts of a trafficking case and situate victims.

“We still do work with them, but they are under a lot of pressure,” Kinsman says. “I no longer feel comfortable having my clients interviewed by ICE agents, because I know the position that they’re in, and it’s too risky.”

anchovies, sardines and krill, used to make our pet food and to feed our pigs, poultry and farm-raised fish. (The U.S. is the biggest consumer of Thai fish.) According to a report in the New York Times, seagoing slaves who managed to flee their captors told stories of “the sick cast overboard, the defiant beheaded, the insubordinate sealed for days below deck in a dark, fetid fishing hold.”

Few large clothing companies have slave-free supply chains. If you buy clothing at Walmart, for example, you can be pretty sure that slaves made it in a country like Bangladesh. “I think it’s just so critically important to tell people that if you’re spending six dollars on a dress, that dress was made by a slave,” says Elizabeth Boolbol. “The economics just don’t work, unless the person making it is not getting paid a living wage.”

This knowledge, she suggests, ought to make us reconsider how we buy things in the age of global commerce. “The whole idea of disposable clothes, disposable items, disposable everything, and we need to get it now, we need to get it cheap—that has really fueled the labor trafficking.”

According to the International Labour Organization, 24.9 million people are trapped in forced labor, and 4.8 million in forced sexual exploitation (another several million are in forced marriages). “The labor trafficking issue is a much bigger issue than the sex trafficking issue,” Patel says, and one that Grace Farms Foundation has begun to tackle.

“There is so much we can do about it as a society—if we just decide to.”

We can start by educating ourselves. We can buy “fair trade” coffee

ARE WE CONTRIBUTING?

What about the rest of the world? With all the trafficking going on in our own country, it seems too much to have to worry about slaves in African mines or Indian quarries or Chinese sweatshops. And yet here is why we must: We’re part of the problem. We are consumers of goods made by slaves.

Our tech toys—computers, cell phones and electric cars—top the list: Their lithium ion batteries contain cobalt, mined mostly in the Democratic Republic of the Congo under brutal conditions, sometimes by children as young as seven. “This is every Apple, every Samsung, that dress was made by a slave every Tesla,” says Krishna Patel, “and they’re not doing anything to clear up the supply chains.” (Tesla has said it the economics just hopes to establish a North American supply chain.) “You don’t work, add to it all the other stuff needed, coltan, tungsten, and it’s a nightmare. There are so few places you can get these minerals. If you look right now, there isn’t one tech company that can claim a slave-free supply chain.”

Garments, fish, cocoa and sugar round out the top five slave-made and harvested goods we consume (though the U.S. Deand chocolate and seek out sustainably grown foods. We can patronize partment of Labor reports that 148 goods from seventy-five countries are clothing stores with transparent supply chains; we can buy goods made made by forced and child labor). by trafficking survivors. We can stay abreast of groups that give us news There are about 2.1 million child “chocolate slaves” in West Africa, of trafficking, like Human Rights Watch, the Polaris Project, End Slavthe source of 70 percent of the world’s cocoa. Some of these children were ery Now, and closer to home, Grace Farms and the Partnership to End abducted from their villages; many were sold into slavery for as little Human Trafficking. as thirty dollars. BBC documentarians asked one slave boy what he Elizabeth Boolbol thinks Americans have a special obligation to thought about faraway people enjoying the fruits of his labor. “They are fight human trafficking. “We’re a country founded on life, liberty and enjoying something that I suffered to make,” he told them. “They are the pursuit of happiness, and yet we have slavery as a stain on our own eating my flesh.” history,” she says. “So we know better. America has to lead. And I think Commercial fishing is even more notorious. Low-income countries rich communities like Greenwich need to step in. We may not be able to like Thailand and Cambodia specialize in catching “forage” fish, such as cure cancer, but we can do this.”

“It’s just so critically important to tell people that if you’re spending six dollars on a dress, ,” says Elizabeth Boolbol. “ unless the person making it is not getting paid a living wage.”

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A peek into Stephanie Trotta’s own closet

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FA L L 2 0 1 9 T R E N D S

ashion orward

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a political science and international affairs degree from George Washington University). Trotta eventually nurtured her creative side working at Ralph Lauren before relaunching thegirlguide.com in 2016. Now she has joined us as guest fashion editor in order to recap fall 2019’s best trends. Here, her favorite picks of the season and a bit of advice on how to style them.

PHOTO BY STEPHANIE TROTTA

eet STEPHANIE TROTTA, a Darien mom, personal stylist and the brains behind The Girl Guide, a well-read blog giving advice and tips on style, shopping, travel and life in general.

Known for her fab personal style (and lover of anything neutral), many are surprised to learn that this savvy creative was a self-proclaimed “nerd” in school (she graduated with

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TREND ONE

1

1 DANNIJO Bow earrings; $320. dannijo.com

2

2 CAROLINA HERRERA Black floral lace crop cardigan; $2,490.

Mitchells, Westport; shop.mitchellstores.com

3

3 MAX&MOI Camisole; $182.

The Perfect Provenance, Greenwich; theperfectprovenance.com

4 THEORY Silk tie scarf top; $295. theory.com

5 NANUSHKA

Delicate and feminine details galore

BURBERRY

6 GIANVITO ROSSI Gold & black lurex lace pump; $945; Mitchells, Westport. shop.mitchellstores.com

7 LELE SADOUGHI

4

“Spice up your off ice attire and trade in that traditional button-dow n for a silk bow blou s e.D ress it dow n tucked into black skinny jeans paired w ith a statement ear r ing.” —ST

Barrette; $125. shopmonarchmarket.com

8 ZIMMERMANN Lace poet-sleeve mini dress; $1,950. Saks Greenwich, saks.com

9 DIOR Cameo ring; $440. dior.com

10 ALICE + OLIVIA

BY STACEY BENDET Leila fit-and-flare pleated coat in soft white; $795. Greenwich; aliceandolivia.com

11 J.CREW Black leather kitten heels; $178. jcrew.com »

5

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TROTTA PHOTO BY JULIA D’AGOSTINO, FASHION IMAGES COURTESY OF DESIGNERS/BRANDS

LADY LIKE

Croc-embossed shoulder bag; $365. intermixonline.com

7

8

“O ne of the big gest access or y tre nd s last year was the retur n of the s cr unchie.Here, the 80’s classic trend gets an upg rade.”—ST

9

ZIMMERMANN

LIKE A LADY TORY BURCH

“These feminine looks are not just for the royals; embrace your inner duchess with lace, ruffles and bows.” ­—ST

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TREND TWO

2

3

1 SECRET GARDEN Dark florals blossom on the fall runways and into your closets

4

MARC JACOBS

5 “Not your average black sweater—wear it casually w ith a pair of cord s for day or at nig ht w ith s ome leather leg g ing s and a low bun.” —ST

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7

1 TEMPERLEY LONDON

“Pair thi s dress w ith a lace up bootie and leather jacket or tur n it into a skir t w ith a neutral cashmere sweater once the te mpe ratures drop.” —ST

Magnolia jacket; $1,795. temperleylondon.com

2 ROBERTO COIN 18k rose gold and black diamond necklace; $7,500. Lux Bond & Green, Westort; lbgreen.com

3 BRIXTON Floppy wool hat; $58. nordstrom.com

4 VINCE Brushed floral funnel neck; $425.

Greenwich, Westport; vince.com

MOODY ROMANCE “These pretty prints are not just for hotter temps. When styling dark florals, I love mixing patterns and textures. Try chocolate brown instead of black for a gorgeous, rich combination.” —ST

8

5 BYTIMO Shirt dress; $555.

Intermix, Greenwich. intermixonline.com

6 ETRO

9

VERONICA BEARD

English rose embroidered bag; $2,150.

Neiman Marcus, The Westchester; neimanmarcus.com

7 HELMUT LANG Cable-knit wool sweater; $520. saks.com

8 SEE BY CHLOÈ

TROTTA PHOTO BY JULIA D’AGOSTINO, FASHION IMAGES COURTESY OF DESIGNERS/BRANDS

Floral midi dress; $475. saks.com

9 MICHAEL KORS COLLECTION Belted coat, $3,250; Mitchells, Westport; shop.mitchellstores.com

10 STUART WEITZMAN Mona boot in black with gold stars; $895.

Greenwich; stuartweitzman.com

11 RANJANA KHAN Hoop earrings; $175. netaporter.com »

SEE BY CHLOE

10

11 SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019 NEW CANAAN•DARIEN

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TREND THREE

SHINE BRIGHT 1

3

Sorbet-like colors in elegant hues and sleek silhouettes

2

4 VALENTINO

5 COLOR PARTY “Whether you’re just looking for a pop or want to embrace your colorful side, this trend shows no sign of fading.”

—ST

6 newcanaandarienmag.com

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TROTTA PHOTO BY JULIA D’AGOSTINO, FASHION IMAGES COURTESY OF DESIGNERS/BRANDS

“I love that thes e elegant colors can easily be wor n together. If you’re mixing a yellow skir t w ith a mint sweater, opt for neutral access or ies in nude or beige.”

—ST

7

1 CHANEL Brooch; price upon request. chanel.com

2 HOBBS Tia coat; $400.

Greenwich; hobbs.com

3 TEMPERLEY LONDON Akiko dress; $1,995. temperleylondon.com

8 “If I could buy one piece for fall it would be an investment coat like thi s one.

It’s vers atile and makes a g reat statement at the s ame time.” —ST

4 DRIES VAN NOTEN Pleated midi skirt; $890. saks.com

5 JOIE Roshan sweater; $298. Greenwich, Westport; joie.com

6 CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTIN Pumps; $895. christianlouboutin.com

9

7 HERMÈS Cape Cod steel watch; $3,600. Hermès Greenwich, hermes.com

8 KATE SPADE NEW YORK Shearling coat; $2,298. katespade.com

9 MES DEMOISELLES Silk-satin maxi dress; $473. netaporter.com

10 PRADA Satin skirt; $1,560. saks.com

11 SENREVE Mini Maestra bag in coral; $695. shopbop.com »

LANVIN

11 JACQUEMUS

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10

TREND FOUR

1

1 LELA ROSE Checked woven peplum blouse; $990. netaporter.com

2

2 MM6 MAISON MARGIELA Glen-plaid pleated midi skirt; $420. matchesfashion.com

3 ANTHROPOLOGIE Etta knotted headband; $20. anthropologie.com

PATTERN PLAY A little something borrowed from the boys

3

4 TALBOTS Tweed jacket in ivory; $179.

Stamford, Westport; talbots.com

5 CHARLES BY CHARLES DAVID Venus bootie; $119.

Lord & Taylor, Stamford; lordandtaylor.com

6 VERONICA BEARD Emmeline jumpsuit; $695. veronicabeard.com

7 SOMETHING NAVY Single-breasted plaid wool-blend coat; $159. nordstrom.com

CHANEL

8 BALENCIAGA Ruffled checked twill midi skirt; $1,450. netaporter.com

9 VEJA V-10 leather sneakers; $150. modaoperandi.com

10 ISABEL MARANT ÉTOILE Vittoria plaid high waist trousers; $495. saks.com

MIX IT UP

“Keeping it casual? Pair thi s blaz er w ith your favor ite white tee tucked into a pair of mom jeans and f lats.”—ST

“Mix patterns and plaids for a clean and sophisticated statement.”

—ST

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11 ANN TAYLOR Fringe tweed jacket; $179.

New Canaan; anntaylor.com

5

7

6

“I love the vers atilit y of thi s coat. Take it f rom work to weekend by swapping out your pumps for a statement sneaker.” —ST

8

9

TROTTA PHOTO BY JULIA D’AGOSTINO, FASHION IMAGES COURTESY OF DESIGNERS/BRANDS

BROCK

10 11 SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019 NEW CANAAN•DARIEN

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Featured Speaker

Kelly Corrigan

Tickets and sponsor opportunities at p2phelps.org or call 203-621-0700

A gifted storyteller and talented interviewer, Kelly Corrigan has touched hearts and captured audiences as the author of four New a York Times bestsellers.

Constantly noted as one of the best storytellers around, Kelly connects audiences in a very intimate and empowering way.

JOIN THE FIGHT FOR ALZHEIMER’S FIRST SURVIVOR.

At the Alzheimer’s Association Walk to End Alzheimer’s®, people carry flowers representing their connection to Alzheimer’s — a disease that currently has no cure. But what if one day there was a white flower for Alzheimer’s first survivor? What if there were millions of them? Help make that beautiful day happen by joining us for the world’s largest fundraiser to fight the disease.

Register today at alz.org/walk.

2019 NATIONAL PRESENTING SPONSOR

Walk to End Alzheimer’s - Fairfield County Calf Pasture Beach, Norwalk Oct. 13, 2019 newcanaandarienmag.com

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SEPTEMBER 29, 2019 | CALF PASTURE BEACH | NORWALK,CT

Together, we can make an impact in finding a cure for cancer! Register today to ride 12, 25 or 50 miles or walk a 5K in the fifth annual William Raveis Ride + Walk, the family fundraising event supporting the most brilliant and promising scientists conducting cutting-edge cancer research. Sign up today!

November 2, 2019 Greenwich Country Club Tickets on sale at ct.wish.org/wishnight Now boarding for Wish Night, featuring outstanding eats, unparalleled auction items and inspiring wish stories.

Prepare to soar to new heights as you help create life-changing wishes for children with critical illnesses.

Ready to fly? Tickets, tables and sponsorships are available now, but act fast last year’s event sold out.

Honoring Wish Spirit Award Robin Hayes CEO, JetBlue

Youth Spirit Award Steven Sudell In memory newcanaandarienmag.com

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BREAST CANCER ALLIANCE INVITES YOU TO HELP IN THE FIGHT AGAINST BREAST CANCER THIS OCTOBER ANNUAL LUNCHEON AND FASHION SHOW

MONDAY, OCTOBER 21ST 11AM UNTIL 2PM HYATT REGENCY GREENWICH GUEST SPEAKER: CELEBRITY CHEF TODD ENGLISH FASHION SHOW AND MODELS OF INSPIRATION PRESENTED BY RICHARDS EVENT TICKETS: BCA2019.GIVESMART.COM RAFFLE TICKETS: 203.861.0014

Media Sponsor

BREASTCANCERALLIANCE.ORG

MOFFLYAD_2019_RUNtoEAT.pdf

7/30/19

1:57:02 PM

An evening of sipping and savoring with top chefs and restauranteurs from throughout Fairfield County to benefit The First Tee of Connecticut

Thursday, October 3 6:30 - 9:30 pm Country Club of Darien Co-Chairs Charlene & Mike Bego Chuck & Dawn Deluca

Tickets and Sponsorships available at one.bidpal.com/TasteOfTheTee

Culinary Host Country Club of Darien Executive Chef Pablo Lorenzo Golf Host Country Club of Darien PGA Professional Cory Muller newcanaandarienmag.com

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a celebration of

Please join us for a festive evening!

FRIDAY | OCTOBER 4 | 5:30-9:30PM The Towers at Merritt River | 801 Main Avenue, Norwalk

Thank you

to our generous sponsors!

Unlimited Wine, Beer, and Special Signature Cocktail Italian-inspired Buffet | Delicious Homemade Desserts Great Raffle Prizes (drawings throughout the evening) and Silent Auction Free Onsite Parking | Business Casual Attire | $75 per person

NTECH

DIAGNOSTICS and IMAGING

Visit pawsct.org for a link to purchase tickets to learn more, and to watch our video!

All proceeds benefit PAWS, a no-kill animal shelter dedicated to the rescue and adoption of our community’s homeless dogs and cats.

Pet Animal Welfare Society is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. 504 Main Avenue, Norwalk, CT 06851 | 203-750-9572 | paws@pawsct.org

™

New Canaan Library’s 12th Annual Literary Luncheon Featuring

author of

Thursday, November 7, 2019 Woodway Country Club 11 am - 2 pm For ticket information contact Brooke Moore bmoore@newcanaanlibrary.org • 203.594.5006 Artwork by Cynthia MacCollum

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Bartlett Arboretum & Gardens

ANNUAL GALA Thursday, October 17 Rockrimmon Country Club 6:30 - 9:30 PM Visit BartlettArboretum.org/FallfortheBartlett to sponsor, donate and purchase tickets.

Event Sponsors (as of 8/1/19)

GREENWICH 20th Anniversary LAND TRUST 20th Anniversary

Tickets include EVERYTHING !

Delicious food from SUPER DUPER WEENIE * LOCO

BBQ * NEW HAVEN PIZZA TRUCK * TACO LOCO * Refreshments provided by CAFFE BON * JUICY JUICE * Special treats from MR SOFTEE ICE CREAM * Adult beverages provided by HORSENECK WINES &LIQUOR * Live WEBE108 DJ * Activities MAZE * HOT AIR BALLOON RIDES * PETTING ZOO * SOCCER WITH ALDWIN * PONY RIDES * BUNGEE TRAMPOLINES * ARTS & CRAFTS sponsored

by the Brant Foundation * and more!

Sunday September 22, 2019 3:00 – 6:00 p.m.

Conyers Farm 1 Hurlingham Drive, Greenwich gltrust.org

203–629–2151

Reserve your tickets today: gltrust.org/events/gowild/ Proceeds from Go Wild! will support Greenwich Land Trust’s efforts to conserve open space, connect our community with the natural world, and inspire the next generation of conservationists.

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Title Sponsor

Patron Tent Sponsor

Media Sponsors

THE RIDGEFIELD PLAYHOUSE

Non-profit 501 (C) (3)

18th Annual

COCKTAILS DINNER DANCING

HELP SPARK JOY BACK INTO SOMEONE S LIFE!

FREE WINE TASTING & ART EXHIBIT BEFORE EACH SHOW!

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OCTOBER 25 6 PM

10/22

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THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS

10/25

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EXCLUSIVE MAGAZINE SPONSOR

TO PURCHASE TICKETS, VISIT: W W W . P A C I F I C H O U S E . O R G/ G A L A

11/23

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PHOTOGRAPHY

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Moffly Media is one of the leading providers of professional event photography and marketing services in Fairfield County.

We capture compelling, high-quality images of individuals and groups at meaningful events. With our wide range of capabilities, Moffly will customize a marketing program that’s just right for you.

LEARN MORE! Contact KATHLEEN GODBOLD at Kathleen.Godbold@moffly.com or 203.571.1654

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CREATED & PRODUCED BY

WE’RE PAINTING THE TOWN PINK! If you’re a woman over 40, getting an annual mammogram is the best way to detect breast cancer early – long before a lump is felt in your breast. And, finding breast cancer earlier results in less aggressive treatment.

Stamford Health’s Breast Center provides three-dimensional mammography, which means better detection and fewer callbacks. Our day, evening and weekend appointments, walk-in availability, and commitment to provide same-day results whenever possible means we’re here for you when you need us.

We all know someone whose life has been touched by breast cancer, and that’s why initiatives in October like Stamford Health’s Paint The Town Pink are so important — not to mention the care that the Breast Center and Bennett Cancer Center offer right in our own backyard. To view the calendar of Paint the Town Pink events, visit support.stamfordhospitalfoundation.org/pttpcalendar.

To schedule a mammogram, call (203) 276.PINK (7465) or visit support.stamfordhospitalfoundation.org/mammogram

The Lockwood-Mathews Mansion Museum’s

October 5, 2019 We Thank Our 2019 Gala Sponsors: 2019 Gala Distinguished Benefactors: 2019 Gala Sustainers: 2019 Gala Graphic Design Sponsor:

2019 Gala Media Sponsor:

Founding Patrons: The Estate of Cynthia Clark Brown 2019 Season Distinguished Benefactors: The Maurice Goodman Foundation

The exhibit, From Corsets to Suffrage: Victorian Women Trailblazers, is sponsored in part by

295 West Avenue, Norwalk, CT 06850

RSVP: lockwoodmathewsmansion.com . 203.838.9799 ext. 4 In collaboration with

YOU’RE INVITED!

Honoring:

Thursday, October 17, 2019 200 Elm Street, Stamford, CT 5:30 - 9:00 pm Leading Sponsor:

Event Co-Chairs: Michelle Houston and Carla Catanzaro Honorary Chairs: Carl R. Kuehner, III, Paul J. Kuehner and Tiffany R. Kuehner

To purchase tickets, visit: hopeforhaiti.info/harvestinghope or email Sarah Porter at sarah@hopeforhaiti.com

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advertisers index AUTOMOTIVE KARL Chevrolet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54 ROXOR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29

Experience Greenwich to Benefit Think Greenwich . . . . . . . 104 Fall for the Bartlett/Bartlett Arboretum Gardens Annual Gala . . . . . . . . . . 102

BUILDING & HOME IMPROVEMENT Neil Hauck Architects . . . . . . . . . Cover 3 Robert A. Cardello Architects . . . . . . . . 7 Walpole Outdoors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45

BUSINESS & FINANCE Cummings & Lockwood LLC . . . . . . . . 73 Davidson, Dawson & Clark LLP . . . . . . 45 Navesink Wealth . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53

EDUCATION & CHILDREN Berkshire School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67

The Wine Connection . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Winvian Farm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31

Greenwich Land Trust 20th Anniversary Go Wild! . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 102 Habitat for Humanity of Coastal Fairfield County's 26th Annual Benefit Golf Outing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41 Habitat for Humanity of Coastal Fairfield County's 2019 Bridgeport's Seaside Park 5k Run for Home & Workboot Challenge . . . . . . . . . . 103 Hope for Haiti Harvesting Hope Celebration . . . . . . . . . . . . . 106 The Lockwood-Mathews Mansion

HEALTH & BEAUTY Calmë New Canaan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 Norwalk Hospital/ Nuvance Health . . . . . . . . . . . Cover 2 ONS Orthopaedic & Neurosurgery Specialists . . . . . . . . 23 Paul D. Harbottle, D.D.S . . . . . . . . . . . 43 Stamford Health . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 Yale New Haven Health/ Greenwich Hospital . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

Museum's Roaring Twenties Gala . . . 106

Brunswick School . . . . . . . . . . 13, 37, 59

Make-A-Wish Wish Night . . . . . . . . . . 96

Fairfield University's College

JEWELRY

New Canaan/Darien magazine's

Lux Bond & Green . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1

of Arts and Sciences . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Greens Farms Academy . . . . . . . . . . 63

4th Annual Best Bartender . . . . . . . . 34 New Canaan Library's 12th Annual

Greenwich Academy . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69

Literary Luncheon Featuring Delia

Greenwich Country Day School . . . . . . 65

Owens, Author of Where the

Independent Schools Open Houses . . . . 71

Crawdads Sing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 100

King School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52

New York City Wine & Food Festival . . . . 25

New Canaan Country School . . . . . . . 69

Paws: A Celebration of Happy Tails . . . . 99

Rippowam Cisqua School . . . . . . . . . . 73

Person-to-Person Transforming

St. Luke's School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61 The Children's School . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71 The Long Ridge School . . . . . . . . . . . . 71 Winston Preparatory School . . . . . . . . 67

ENTERTAINMENT 95.9, The Fox . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39 Norwalk Symphony Orchestra . . . . . . 100 The Ridgefield Playhouse . . . . . . . . . 103 Westport Country Playhouse . . . . . . . . 47

EVENTS

Lives Luncheon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 94 Run To E•A•T Run/Walk to End Allergies Together . . . . . . . . . . 98

NONPROFIT Breast Cancer Alliance. . . . . . . . . . . . . 45 The Elephant Sanctuary . . . . . . . . . . . 73

REAL ESTATE Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices . . . . 11

MISCELLANEOUS

Taste of the Tee 2019 . . . . . . . . . . . 98

Big Picture . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 104

Victory Cup Westport . . . . . . . . . . . . 101

Hollow Tree Self Storage . . . . . . . . . . . 55

Walk to End Alzheimer's . . . . . . . . . . 94

Westy Self Storage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41

William Raveis Ride + Walk . . . . . . . . . 96

FASHION Helen Ainson . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41

A-list Awards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33

Roundabout . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39

Breast Cancer Alliance's Annual

Harvest Fest . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 95

Rolex . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Cover 4

Paint the Town Pink . . . . . . . . . . . . 105 The First Tee of Connecticut

Mitchells/Richards . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2, 3

Domestic Violence Crisis Center

Mikimoto . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1

William Raveis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

Stamford Health's

18th Annual Pacific House Gala . . . . . . 103

Luncheon and Fashion Show . . . . . . . 97

Manfredi Jewels . . . . . . . . . . 51, Cover 4

FOOD, CATERING & LODGING Cava . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50 The Water People . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43 SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019 NEW CANAAN•DARIEN

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PLAN AHEAD Light A Fire NOVEMBER

AD RESERVATION CLOSE: THURSDAY, OCTOBER 3

last word by julia dz afic

LET’S GET ORGANIZED I

still remember the feeling I had as a kid during back-to-school shopping for clothes shoes for the new school year ahead. That smell of a fresh binder full of blank pages and excitement is something that will always stay with me. My mom was always great at getting us organized during this crazy time of year, and I strive to be a mom that does the same.

My friend Stefanie Jones, a local professional organizer, has helped me to get my home in order in so many magical ways—I especially needed it in my closet and in my daughter Amalia’s too. In an effort to help you get it together, I asked Jones to answer a few questions about back-to-school organization. Here is what she had to say:

Getting kids of any age back into a routine after summer is always a struggle. A few weeks before school begins, start planning activities in the morning to get kids used to waking up, getting dressed and getting out the door within a reasonable time.

It doesn’t have to be every day, just a couple days a week to remind them their routine is going to change again soon.

What about organizing all the school supplies?

Label items that are your child’s personal supplies and designate a space at home for homework and projects. If this is at the kitchen

table, try to store simple supplies like pencils, pens, glue, scissors, etc. in a pencil box or similar container nearby so it’s accessible but also easy to put away when you need to use the space.

Do a scan of last year’s outdoor gear and remove anything that is damaged, too small, or that your child absolutely won’t wear (the adorable mittens you thought they’d love but are “too itchy”).

Create “go bags” for each activity the kids are involved in, such as ballet bag, swim bag, school bag.

Have it packed and ready to grab and go. Providing a special hook, shelf, or basket for each child helps them know where to put things away and where to look if they’re missing something.

Be prepared for the unexpected.

Emotions and anxieties are high around the start of the school year, no matter how organized you are. Try to talk with your child about what to expect the first day, familiar faces in their classroom, and new things to look forward to, but also be open if they’re nervous, anxious, or just “off ” before the start of school.

Tailor back to school preparations to your child and family. Roleplaying situations like the bus ride or walking through the school classrooms before their first day may help reduce stresses for the first day.

Any other juicy tips for us when getting ready for the school year?

Follow STEFANIE JONES on Instagram @therealisticorganizer and therealisticorganizer.com

How should we prep our mudrooms/coat closets for the upcoming winter months?

And what can we do about all the new clothes?

Before shopping, take stock of what your kids have and what they will need. While skimming their closets and drawers, remove items for donation or recycling that no longer fit or are damaged.

Consider using services like ThredUP, where you can easily ship items for consignment or donation, then purchase new, or like-new, items for the year, all without having to leave the house.

JULIA DZAFIC is the creator of Lemon Stripes, a lifestyle blog covering everything from wellness and design to style and motherhood. She lives in Stamford with her husband Anel, daughter Amalia, and pup Boots. lemonstripes.com, @lemonstripes.

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PHOTO BY JJULIA DZAFIC

What’s the first project we should tackle for kids before the school year starts?

A look into my daughter Amalia’s closet, organized by Stefanie Jones, The Realistic Organizer.

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