Westport Magazine, November/December 2019

LIGHT A FIRE

ON A RESCUE MISSION

When Philanthropy Is Personal

Heroes for Our Wildlife

NOV/DEC 2019 | $5.95

Welcome! design for home entertaining

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STEPHANIE SZOSTAK hol i day s hoppi ng WESTPORTMAG.COM

GIFTS WITH STYLE

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contents NOV/DEC 2019 vol. 21 | issue 6

departments

features

54

14 EDITOR’S LETTER

by dia ne semb rot

STATUS REPORT

WINTER WONDERLAND

17 BUZZ Star struck with Westport actress Stephanie Szostak; SUX is the cool way to ditch plastic straws; M. Barclay for luxe natural pet care; Lillian August at Bedford Square; Catherine H; Artistex Salon & Spa

Tour a serene home by interior designer Amy Coe. It’s filled with great ideas, just in time for homeentertaining season. by diane sembrot

22 SHOP Holiday gifts—a special section for stylish shoppers

64

30 GO Loving family time in Boston at The Ritz-Carlton; purring down the road in the Infiniti QX50

TOGETHER WE RISE Need a dose of inspiration?

We share heartwarming stories of friends and neighbors doing good for others. Meet this year’s Light a Fire honorees.

34 HOME Soothing home finds at Eleish van Breems

by jill johnson

78

36 EAT Healthy kosher with Liz Reuven; catching up at Shearwater and Ignacio’s

You found a helpless baby bird or a hurt deer in the backyard.

Because of the amazing nonprofit Wildlife in Crisis, there’s help.

40 DRINK Creative cocktail hour at home with Teroforma

TO THE RESCUE

by joey macari

43 PEOPLE & PLACES

A peek inside philanthropic parties, galas and celebrations correction: in the sept/oct issue, we ran the wrong photo caption for event chair dana scinto and chef michele ragussis at the rose of hope luncheon. we sincerely regret the error.

64

87 INDEX OF ADVERTISERS 88 CALENDAR

WESTPORT NOV/DEC 2019, VOL. 21, NO. 6. WESTPORT (USPS/ISSN 1941-9821) is published bi-monthly 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 WESTPORT PO BOX 9309, Big Sandy, TX 75755-9607. U.S. Subscription rates: $19.95/1 year, $34.95/2 years; Canada and Foreign $44/1 year, $72/2 years. westportmag.com

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MELANI LUST

on the c over: interior design by amy coe home c over photo gr aphy by: hulya kol abas

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nov/dec 2019

EATING ON THE GO

CELEBRATING THE SCENE STEALERS OF OUR CITY

PARTY PHOTOS

Visit our galleries for all the fun

THE CELEBRITY VISITS, FABULOUS FASHIONS AND MOVING MOMENTS FROM ALL THE HOTTEST EVENTS

above: The writer pauses between food write-ups

SOCIAL FEEDS ON LOCAL FOOD

PLUS! SEE MORE NOW! This power-lifting, fuel-feeding champ has more to inspire you throughout the holidays with regular posts on Instagram @georgetttte

FOLLOW US ON:

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A-LIST AWARDS: PHOTOS 1, 3, 4, 7, 10 BY JACEK DOLATA; 2, 5, 6, 8, 9 BY KRISTIN BURKE HYNES

GEORGETTE YACOUB writes for Moffly Media.

She’s always up for the chance to check out what’s new at local restaurants, cafés and eateries. When she’s not running around doing research for us, she manages a team of nutrition-and-fitness coaches. We’ll be posting her food picks for busy people!

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vol. 21 | no. 6 | nov/dec 2019 creative director

Amy Vischio executive editor

Cristin Marandino

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Megan Gagnon Donna Moffly Joey Macari books correspondent

Emily Liebert contributing editors

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Hulya Kolabas, Neil Landino, Melani Lust editorial advisory board

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editor’s letter

NOV/DEC 2019 / DIANE TALBOT SEMBROT

I HEAR YOU

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14

For example, a watercooler chat became a feature-length story about a home redesign that works for the family who loves to entertain. See page 54—the interior designer for the project, Amy Coe, created a winter wonderland. The piece not only gives you insights into the whys and hows of the project, but also provides ample and easy-to-do tips for hosting a great party.

Also, talk at a local party developed into a feature-length story on the incredible work of Wildlife in Crisis in Weston. What would we do without these heroes, especially when we’re the ones who come across a hurt animal or abandoned bird? Because of their tireless commitment, we have trustworthy help nearby.

Further, extended email exchanges turned into truly heart-warming stories about local volunteers and philanthropists. Inside this issue, they open up about the moment that determined their dedication to a cause.

Together, their stories become a very moving piece by writer Jill Johnson.

Page after page started with a connection —a willingness to talk and to listen. With these pages, I’m happy to share the talent, wisdom, generosity and vision within our community.

diane.sembrot@moffly.com

WILLIAM TAUFIC

I

f I had to guess, I’d say that the one word most people use to describe me is quiet.

“She’s so quiet.” And it’s the truth; I’m at a point in my life when I no longer bristle at being labeled with the word. In fact, I’ve come to embrace the pros and the cons of this personality trait. While you won’t find me regaling a circle of people in the center of a party, you will be welcome to meet up with me on the outskirts of the scene. Here we can share a few words one-on-one, almost giving the odd onlooker the sense that we’re conspiratorially hatching a plan. We won’t be. I’ll be listening to you. I’ll be trying to understand how you see things, figure out what matters to you, find a point of meaningful connection…and then I’ll ask you more questions.

I don’t do this for any particular motive other than to have a real moment. This is how I enjoy meeting and spending time with people. These tête-à-têtes have become some of my favorite moments as an editor, writer and Westport loyalist.

Looking through this issue, before sending it off to the printer, I recall the many phone calls and chance social encounters—over a cup of coffee or running into a friend at a store—that led to story ideas. Stories more often than not start far from how they end up on the page.

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A STAR AMONG US

FRENCH-AMERICAN ACTRESS STEPHANIE SZOSTAK ON WESTPORT AND A MILLION LITTLE THINGS by emily liebert

Y

ou may recognize Stephanie Szostak (show-stack) as Jacqueline Follet from the feature film The Devil Wears Prada. Or from her many small-screen roles in shows like Satisfaction, Younger, Girlfriends’ Guide to Divorce and Bull. She also played the villain Brandt in Iron Man 3, opposite Robert Downey, Jr. These days, the French-American actress can be found leading an ensemble cast as Delilah on the hit ABC drama A Million Little Things, which premiered its second season on September 26 (Thursdays at 9 p.m.).

Here, Stephanie talks about her career, motherhood and what she loves about living in Westport.

PHOTOGRAPH BY MAARTEN DE BOER

by valerie foster

WM: What drew you to Westport and what are your favorite things to do around town?

SS: We lived in New York City for sixteen years and thought we’d never leave, but when our boys were ten and six, we grew tired of the screaming sirens, the crowded elevators, the hefty price tag of schools and the fresh smell of urine on our sidewalk.

We were ready for a change and considered moving west to L.A. for a split second. Then, my husband’s cousin, who lives in Westport, made it her mission to get us to move here, with the help of her friend, Realtor Lesley Smith Clark. Lesley told us about this charming, quirky, not-too-small and not-too-big house, and we fell in love with it. We had a support system of friends and family here, the schools

were great, and the town felt like not exactly the suburbs, but not exactly the country either. Sure, it was far, but at the time the train ride to the city was about an hour.

What happened!?

Still, even with the slower train rides, we absolutely love living here: walking on the beach in all seasons, playing golf at Longshore, the calm of our backyard—did you know that in France you can’t use leaf blowers on Sundays?—the schools, and the great shops and restaurants. I’d like to give a special shout-out to Gold’s Deli, where my folks and I go for lunch every time they come here.

Their visit from France wouldn’t be complete without chopped liver, a pastrami sandwich and a celery soda.

WM: When did you decide to pursue acting and why?

SS: I graduated college with a business degree and landed a job in the marketing department at Chanel in NYC. It was quite glamorous with the seasonal sample sales and a key to the makeup closet! However, the prospect of getting a few promotions to one day get a bigger job wasn’t something that motivated me. The director of advertising asked me to help on a modeling job for an in-house brochure and that led me to decide, at twenty-six years old, to leave Chanel and start modeling on my own. Three years later, still putzing around in the modeling world, I took my first theater class and realized I had found my passion.

I knew nothing about it, knew no one in that business, but I knew I had to do it. For the first time, I felt I had a true sense of direction in life.

Actress and NYC-transplant Stephanie Szostak found the not-toosuburban town of Westport and soon called it home.

buzz was through the eyes of the friends’ group. At the end of the pilot, you realize she has a secret, which made me very curious. Why did her marriage fail? Who is she really?

I knew nothing about her and was interested in discovering and understanding her.

Do I relate? Ha! No. The only thing I share with her is that we have two children, yet that is about to change since, when we left off Season 1, Delilah was headed to the delivery room.

WM: What motivated you to take on the role of Delilah? She makes controversial decisions.

Do you relate?

SS: I loved the script. It was about life, real people; it was tragic and yet funny. Humor is such a part of getting through hardships, and this script hit it right on the head. When Eddie says to Gary, about their friend who committed suicide, “How do we know he didn’t fall?” and Gary responds, “Because he’s not four.” It made me laugh and feel horrible at once, and that’s how life can feel.

As far as Delilah, I wanted to know more. The pilot really didn’t reveal much about her until the end, and then everything you had imagined up to that point collapses.

As the reader, I thought she lost the love of her life, I thought she had the perfect family—all of that

WM: Is there a part you’ve always dreamed of playing?

SS: Something like the roles of Anne Parillaud in La Femme Nikita or Isabelle Huppert in The Piano Teacher. They are flawed, dark and complicated characters—a dream for an actor. As I’m saying this, I realize both movies are French, and I do think I’d have a lot more freedom acting in French, so much more to draw from and play with.

The clever and smart SUX is a fresh take on eco-friendly straws

sip in style

WM: Aside from Delilah, what’s been your favorite character to portray?

SS: Ellen Brandt in Iron Man 3. She’s the furthest thing from Delilah.

Brandt was a villain who was very physical, enjoyed firing a shotgun and even had her way with Tony Stark—Iron Man—before he killed her, sending her flying atop an electrical wire. Working with Robert Downey Jr. was an unforgettable experience. You never quite know what he’s going to do— he improvises, rewrites scenes and takes you along for the ride. I learned so much on that movie, gained some confidence thanks to Downey and also got to train with an incredible stunt team to look like I could fight. The whole experience was a lot of fun, and being in a Marvel movie might have helped me score some brownie points with my kids, too.

I

n order to stay eco-friendly when I’m traveling, I pack my SUX straws (suxstraws.com), made of stainless steel. Created by three Westport businesswomen—Anne Epstein, Anne Greenberg and Ronit Tarshis— the straws are not only dishwasher safe, but also a portion of the profits is donated to charities whose mission is to help keep our oceans clean. Plus, you can easily pop them into your purse or carry-on when traveling or just running errands around town. —Emily Liebert

3 SERIOUS STRAW FACTS: 1. Americans use 500 million straws per day.

2. Straws are the top five most common forms of trash picked up from coastlines.

3. They pose a threat to wildlife.

GOOD BOY!

Pet pampering with M. BARCLAY

W

estporter Michelle Godbout has twenty-plus years in marketing, production and product, retail and e-commerce development, and has managed accessory brands like Pour La Victoire and worked with retailers like Saks. Now she’s all about what is most important in life: cats and dogs. As president

WM: What’s next for you?

SS: Season 2 of A Million Little Things, and I’m also in the process of writing a book with a friend, comedian Natalie Wall. It’s a funny book, think a parody of a children’s book for anyone who likes boobs, has boobs or wants boobs… wait, I guess that’s pretty much everybody.

and founding partner of M. Barclay (mbarclaynyc.com), she oversees a line of safe and pampering premium pet products: Soft Spot salve for noses and paws; Freshen Up coat spritz to address dander; and Lather + Bathe shampoo with jojoba and safflower seed oils. Free of SLES, SLS, parabens, phthalates, mineral oils and synthetic fragrances, they’re made with organically derived ingredients.

“M. Barclay is our way of honoring our pets. With an initial focus on skin and coat care as part of a greater holistic approach to optimum health, we aim to positively contribute to our pets’ vibrant well-being,” she says. “We believe in the passionate souls who make us better.” –Diane Sembrot Find M. Barclay online and now in store at Bungalow in Westport

westportmag.com

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PHOTOGRAPH OF SUX STRAW BY KYLE NORTON; M. BARCLAY, CONTRIBUTED

WM: A Million Little Things films in Vancouver. How do you manage that while being a wife and mother?

SS: When this job came along, one of our wonderful producers, Aaron Kaplan, called me. My husband and I were huddled together on my iPhone, as Aaron told me he was a family man and assured me he’d do everything in his power so I could return home as often as possible.

After we hung up, I still wasn’t convinced that it could work for us logistically. Then my husband said, “Do it, we’ll make it work! It will be a great adventure.” And, you know what? We have made it work so far.

We have incredible support from our sitters, family and friends. Our routine is constantly transforming, but that adds a bit of fun. There are a lot of back and forth trips, the rules around the house change some, bedtime might be later and there may be more screen time, but that’s okay. Like everything else, the way I/we look at it is going to affect the way I/we feel.

Some days, I think, What the heck am I doing working so far away? But, other days, I think, This is incredible—my boys are growing up seeing their mom follow her passion and their dad support me 100 percent. There are a lot of positives to this and some things are hard too. We focus on one day at a time and always know that our family is the number one priority.

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buzz

above: The expanded salon/spa allows for an array of

services, including natural products.

S open at Bedford Square

D

an Weiss, CEO, and John Weiss, COO, brothers and co-owners of the well-established Norwalkbased Lillian August Furnishings + Design, have recently opened the company’s new 3,300-square-feet WESTPORT ATELIER (lillianaugust .com) in Bedford Square. Lillian August opened its first showroom on Main Street when the company opened thirty years ago. “We’re excited to be back in Westport in a prime retail location for our target clientele,” says John. “Bedford

Square offers a convenient shopping location that allows us to introduce Lillian August to a wider audience. With our deep roots in Westport, it feels like a homecoming.”

Adds Dan, “I raised my family in Westport, and it feels right to have a location in this town that holds such meaning for our company.” The atelier delivers a boutique approach to design services (also in Norwalk, Stamford and online) and is at full speed for the holiday shopping and home entertaining season.

left: A peek into

the new Westport location right: A Lillian August display helps shoppers envision design solutions.

FASHION UPDATE

The fashions at the new CATHERINE H (catherineh.com) are next level. Literally. They’re one floor up from teen fave Brandy Melville at 144 Main Street. Owner Catherine Hiriart, a native of Saint-Jean-de-Luz, France, is the owner and founder of Catherine H and HIM by Catherine H (for stylish looks for men) in Katonah. She knows high-end cozy, or as she says: “USA and European clothing collections that can been worn everyday in a chic but casual way.” She chooses exquisite fabrics and accessories, and finds harmony in colors and shapes, so that all kinds of outfits can be created. left: The designer pieces are selected to be versatile and flattering. westportmag.com

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Celebrity Color Odete DaSilva on the hair trends A-listers are rocking now BLONDE “Tone down the washedout beachy look to a soft deep tone. A harmonious color living between blonde and brunette, the new blonde has the best of both worlds and leaves a soft, subtle dimension that is absolutely stunning.”

TRADITIONAL COOL BRUNETTE “This classic beauty is, and will always be, a favorite for brunettes.

Complement it with a sharp precision hairstyle to show off a strong shape.”

COPPERY-DIFFUSED DIMENSION/COLOR MELTING “For brunettes wanting to spice things up, try a beautiful coppery tone that peeks through; using a diffused color melting technique, accenting the beautiful

rich brunette it lives within. We are seeing coppery tones making their way into highfashion hair color, and it’s good for those who want to be a little fiery while keeping a classic look.”

MUSHROOM BALAYAGE “This tone keeps gaining popularity with ever-evolving tonal versions. Often referred to as an ashy caramel, this beautiful full-saturation neutral tone for brunettes can be worn as a soft balayage or full color. As the tone evolves, we are seeing some taking it to the limit of wearing soft pieces of a forest green to play off of the mushroom tones. This is a perfect combination, especially for those wanting to have a little fun with their hair color throughout the fall months.”

PHOTOGRAPHY OF LILLIAN AUGUST BY VENERA ALEXANDROVA; CATHERINE H, CONTRIBUTED; DASILVA AT ARTISTEX BY DAVID WEBBER FOR AHPR GROUP

HOME AGAIN Holiday shoppers, LILLIAN AUGUST is now

ometimes we need a change. We can be dreaming of it for months or it can catch us off guard, like an autumn gust. This happened to Odete DaSilva. She founded Artistex Salon & Spa (artistexsalon.com) in Westport in 1999; then she found a new 4,000-squarefoot space at 260 Post Road East and re-opened. Now she has ample room for a hair salon, a barbershop, a spa with a full range of luxury beauty and wellness services, and a VIP room for privacy-seeking clients. Bonus: Ecoconscious product and service options. —Diane Sembrot

SET YOUR SIGHTS ON 2020!

THE 90TH ANNIVERSARY SEASON AT WESTPORT COUNTRY PLAYHOUSE APR 14 – MAY 2, 2020

SEPT 29 – OCT 17, 2020

next to normal

antigone

This 2009 Tony Award-winning hit musical and winner of the 2010 Pulitzer Prize for Drama gives a groundbreaking look at a family in crisis, while pushing the boundaries of contemporary musical theater. From the director/choreographer of the Playhouse’s 2019 hit, In the Heights.

A determined young woman bravely defies a king in this thrilling drama about the nature of power and resistance. This classic play speaks across centuries to those living in a climate of fear and polarization.

JUNE 9 – 27, 2020

NOV 3 – 21, 2020

tiny house

blues for an alabama sky

Fireworks fly in this new comedy when family, friends, and quirky neighbors come together for a July 4th barbecue at the off-the-grid, isolated mountain paradise of a young, urban couple.

As the creative euphoria of the Harlem Renaissance succumbs to the harsh realities of the Great Depression, a community of friends resolves to keep their hopes and dreams alive.

MUSIC BY TOM KITT BOOK AND LYRICS BY BRIAN YORKEY DIRECTED AND CHOREOGRAPHED BY MARCOS SANTANA

BY SOPHOCLES A WORLD PREMIERE TRANSLATION AND ADAPTATION BY KENNETH CAVANDER DIRECTED BY DAVID KENNEDY

BY PEARL CLEAGE DIRECTED BY LA WILLIAMS

BY MICHAEL GOTCH DIRECTED BY MARK LAMOS

JUL 21 – AUG 8, 2020

ain’t misbehavin’

new subscriptions on sale now!

CONCEIVED BY RICHARD MALTBY, JR. AND MURRAY HORWITZ DIRECTED AND CHOREOGRAPHED BY CAMILLE A. BROWN The 1978 Tony Award® winner as you’ve never seen it before! A dance-filled, reimagined, sassy, and sultry musical celebration of legendary jazz great Fats Waller from director/choreographer Camille A. Brown (2019 Tony Nominee for Best Choreography, Choir Boy).

WESTPORTPLAYHOUSE.ORG | 203 227 4177

CHOOSE FROM OUR 5-PLAY AND PICK 4 SERIES OR BUILD YOUR OWN SERIES WITH FLEX PASSES

BOX OFFICE HOURS 12PM–6PM TUES–FRI

shop by megan gagnon

Holiday Gift Guide Holiday Gift Guide Give the gift of color (and okay, black and white) with festive finds in seasonal shades

WEST ELM Kraft + glitter silver leaf wreath; $54.

Westport; westelm.com

ALL IMAGES COURTESY OF DESIGNERS/BRANDS

HOLIDAY HUES

Holiday Gift Guide / shop

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J.CREW Lodge moccasins in metallic gold; $59.50.

Greenwich, New Canaan, Westport; jcrew.com

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CHARLOTTE TILBURY Magic Star highlighter; $45. Sephora, Greenwich; charlottetilbury.com

3 JOIE

Nadeen top; $298.

Greenwich, Westport; joie.com

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RICHARD JAMES

24K MAGIC

Classic gold slinky; $150.

The Glass House Design Store, New Canaan; theglasshouse.org

Baby, it’s gold outside

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JOHN M. KOSTICK Foldable star sculptures; $245 for set of three.

Design Within Reach, Stamford, Westport; dwr.com

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CIRE TRUDON

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Hupo candle; $125. Grayson De Vere, Greenwich; graysondevere.com

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MASTOLONI Pearl spring gold cuff bracelet; $2,940.

Henry C. Reid, Fairfield; hcreidjewelers.com

GILTY PLEASURE

ALL IMAGES COURTESY OF DESIGNERS/BRANDS

Pedal to the (richest) metal

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MARTONE CYCLING CO. Limited Edition Grand Step Thru bike; $1,700. martonecycling.com

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RALPH LAUREN HOME Garrett mixing glass; $195. ralphlauren.com

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2019 WESTPORT

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shop / Holiday Gift Guide

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FACE TIME

It’s French, so it must be good

DIPTYQUE Giant Ambre candle; $350. diptyqueparis.com

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MILÈO NEW YORK Elixir Oud collagen creating facial oil; $295. mileonewyork.com

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VINCE Double breasted long coat; $1,200. Greenwich, Westport; vince.com

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SHREVE, CRUMP & LOW 10.24 C Ruby three stone ring in platinum; price upon request. Greenwich; shrevecrumpandlow.com

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GIORGIO ARMANI Lip Maestro & Rouge D’Armani Matte set; $38.

Lord & Taylor, Stamford; lordandtaylor.com

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CHERRY CHRISTMAS Sweet picks in the season’s hottest shade

CANADA GOOSE

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Macmillan parka; $895.

Saks Fifth Avenue, Greenwich; saks.com

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HERMÈS 100% Calfskin leather bracelet in fuchsia and silver; $560. Greenwich; hermes.com

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Cubebot ® robot puzzle

by David Weeks; $20 Christ Church Books & Gifts, Greenwich; areaware.com

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TORY BURCH Heart statement earrings; $228. Greenwich; toryburch.com

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ALL IMAGES COURTESY OF DESIGNERS/BRANDS

AREAWARE

Holiday Gift Guide / shop

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SILVER BELLES

TALBOTS Metallic short puffer in silver; $169. Stamford, Westport; talbots.com

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OLIVER THOMAS Wingwoman tote in silver metallic dot; $125.

Kirby and Company, Darien; kirbyandcompany.com

Shine brighter than all the holiday lights

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BETTERIDGE Seven diamond chain drop earrings; $3,900.

Greenwich; betteridge.com

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JUDITH LEIBER COUTURE Silver crystal heart minaudière; $2,995.

Richards, Greenwich; mitchellstores.com

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SAINT LAURENT Small Lou Lou crystal messenger bag; $9,500. saks.com

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6 GET LIT

Deck your halls with this crisp pine scent

VERONICA BEARD Nila dress; $750. veronicabeard.com

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GROWN ALCHEMIST Hand care kit; $100. grownalchemist.com

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ALL IMAGES COURTESY OF DESIGNERS/BRANDS

SYLVA & CIE 18 K White gold and gray diamond ring; price upon request. mitchellstores.com

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MER-SEA & CO.

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Sea Pines ornament candle; $28.

Beehive, Fairfield; thebeehivefairfield.com

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shop /Holiday Gift Guide TWINKLE TWINKLE

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The stars of any holiday ensemble

JONATHAN ADLER Ornaments; $24 each. Bloomingdales, The SoNo Collection; bloomingdales.com

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ASHA Paris chandelier earrings; $295.

Greenwich; ashabyadm.com

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JUNIPER BOOKS

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Curated by color books by the foot; $150. juniperbooks.com

ILLY

Y3.2 Espresso and coffee machine; $149.

Illy.com

LET IT SNOW

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EBERJEY

All is calm, all is white

Alpine Chic, the Aspen robe; $189. Darien Sport Shop, dariensport.com

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BACCARAT Mille Nuits Flutissimo; $520 for set of two.

Greenwich; baccarat.com

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PUSH PRESENT

HUNTER

Because every doll needs a proper pram

Women’s refined slim fit tall rain boots; $165. hunterboots.com

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OLLI ELLA Strolley in white; $135.

Wee Mondine, Darien; weemondine.com

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WATERWORKS Arno pedestal bowl; $131.25. Greenwich; waterworks.com westportmag.com

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ALL IMAGES COURTESY OF DESIGNERS/BRANDS

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Soleil Toile M O F F LY M E D I A

GOLD COAST C O N N E C T I C U T • 2019

Fine Lingerie & Swimwear

14 POST ROAD EAST • WESTPORT, CONNECTICUT • 203.454.8688 44 ELM STREET • NEW CANAAN, CONNECTICUT • 203.966.2887

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STUART WEITZMAN

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Jessie boot; $750. Greenwich; stuartweitzman.com

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ANTHROPOLOGIE Farmstead round cheese board; $30. anthropologie.com

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SELF-PORTRAIT Lace trim cable knit sweater; $360. Nordstrom, The SoNo Collection; nordstrom.com

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PERFECT TIME

All I want for Christmas is you

HENRY’S Notebook; $35. Greenwich; henrysleather.com

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HAT ATTACK Glam Black XL Felt Hat; $120.

The Perfect Provenance, Greenwich; theperfect provenance.com

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HERMÈS

BLACK LIST

Cape Cod watch; $15,400.

Manfredi Jewels, Greenwich, New Canaan; manfredijewels.com

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Being naughty never looked so good

PYRO PET Dreki candle; $35.

Eleish Van Breems Home, Westport; evbantiques.com

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SKYLINE CHESS

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Premium metal New York edition; $483. skylinechess.com

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ASSOULINE Chanel: The Impossible Collection; $895. assouline.com W westportmag.com

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ALL IMAGES COURTESY OF DESIGNERS/BRANDS

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WORLD LEADER IN ORTHOPEDICS. LOCAL ADDRESS. HSS Orthopedics and Stamford Health have teamed up in Connecticut.

The same expertise that earned HSS U.S. News & World Report’s

New patients welcome.

#1 ranking for orthopedics in the nation can be found locally

To learn more or make an appointment with an HSS

through its unique collaboration with Stamford Health. As a U.S.

specialist, please call 877-589-8545 or visit

News & World Report Best Hospital in the Faireld County area,

HSS.edu/StamfordHealth

Stamford Health attracts world-leading specialists, including HSS for orthopedics.

HSS Orthopedic specialists see patients at HSS Stamford at Chelsea Piers. If surgery is necessary, the HSS surgeons operate at the award-winning Stamford Hospital and Stamford Health Tully Health Center. We’re here for you because how you move is who you are, how you are and how you live.

Most major insurance plans accepted.

HSS Stamford 1 Blachley Rd Stamford, CT 06902

go

THE RITZ-CARLTON

PUTTIN’ ON THE RITZ A MAJOR REDESIGN AT THE RITZ-CARLTON IN BOSTON

BY EMILY LIEBERT

Big View

STAY Choose from the freshly updated 193 guest rooms and suites, constructed with historic materials such as saddle leather, linen, wood and steel. Colonial craftsmanship (forging, hammering, embossing and carving) along with muted hues of blue, grey and mustard create a soothing atmosphere in which to relax and unwind.

There’s new lighting and carpet (made with 13 percent recycled materials), and artwork by local talent Jon Amburg.

If you’re on a business trip, you can work at the sleek

desk or from a settee with a conveniently positioned table right next to it to accommodate a laptop or in-room dining.

There’s no shortage of outlets and USB ports to plug into (love that!). All rooms and suites are also retrofitted with a Telkonet EcoSmart System, which offers optimal “smart and personalized” comfort in the way of easyto-use touchscreen temperature selections. There are display options in Spanish, French and Portuguese—and you can even check out current weather conditions and a three-day

left: The grand entrance to the Ritz-Carlton Boston, which opened in 1927 right: Soothe away stress with the cool neutral colors of a Deluxe Guestroom

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PHOTOGRAPHY OF RITZ CARLTON BY DON RIDDLE

F

or nearly two decades, midtown Boston has been undergoing a significant revitalization to become a hub for both corporate and leisure travel. And The RitzCarlton has been at the epicenter of this revival. Most recently, the property put the final touches on a $13 million redesign, thanks to the distinguished architectural firm Rockwell Group, which was influenced by the elegance of European boutique hotels and by literary virtuoso Edgar Allan Poe (born in 1809 just a few blocks from the hotel). Beyond the aesthetic facelift, the hotel’s staff and its attention to detail are unsurpassed. While I do enjoy traveling alone, this time I brought my nine-year-old son along with me for a celebratory birthday weekend. Upon entrance, he was greeted with a bucket of toys to choose from, and when we arrived at our room, there were balloons and a fabulous dessert creation with his name written in chocolate. Now that was sweet!

PHOTOGRAPH OF CHILD BY RUSS MEZIKOFSKY

forecast. We stayed in an expansive Executive Suite, which featured a living area with French doors leading to the master bedroom.

In the main space, there’s an authentic reproduction of a seventeenthcentury Windsor chair, reflective of the Adams National Historic Park in Quincy, beneath a photo of the iconic Boston Public Library, which added a nice native touch. Additionally, our suite had a gorgeous view of Boston Common, which is even more spectacular at night.

DINE Artisan Bistro is located on the main floor of the hotel. The menu, which merges fresh produce, native herbs and locally sourced meats, seafood and cheeses, is reminiscent of a European bistro. For lunch, the New England Clam Chowder and the Short Rib Pasta are not to be missed. For dinner, the Georges Bank Scallops with dill risotto, fermented ramps, spring garlic leaves and candied

bacon are a must.

If you have a sweet tooth (my son and I both do!), your meal won’t be complete without the Carrot & Parsnip Cake with goat cheese icing, blackberry sauce and toasted pecans.

That said, if you have access to the exclusive Club Lounge, you’ve hit the jackpot. (If it doesn’t come with your room, you can pay a fee to upgrade.) They serve complimentary breakfast, a light lunch, snacks, hors d’oeuvres and desserts, which rival any gourmet restaurant. They also have a top-shelf selection of beer, wine and cocktails (all gratis), highspeed Wi-Fi and private work stations.

to guests who are eighteen years and older, unless you’re booking a private swimming lesson or training session.

We could have hung out there all day.

SPA While the property doesn’t boast its own spa, it’s connected to the 114,000-square-foot Equinox Sports Club Boston—a shrine of fitness, wellness and beauty. The club offers mind-body studios, a boxing studio, a standardsized basketball court, four squash courts, a twentyfive-yard swimming pool, personal training programs and a full-service spa and salon.

If you’re staying on the Club Level at the hotel, it’s free.

If not, there’s a $15 per person/per day charge. The only downside is that Equinox is limited

EXPLORE Interesting, educational and fun activities abound in the Boston area. A few of my favorites (barely scratching the surface) are: Museum of Fine Arts, John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum, and shopping on Newbury Street.The best things to do with kids are: Museum of Science, Faneuil Hall and Quincy Market, Duck Tour, Children’s Museum, New England Aquarium and (dare I say) a Red Sox game at Fenway Park.

above: The comfortable living area of a Luxury Suite, with plenty of city views NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2019 WESTPORT

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Whiz Kids

heading to boston? bring the kids—there’s plenty of history, sports and adventures to enjoy. the fun starts with the ritz’s family perks.

Enjoy an adventure with your little ones with a special package designed around the popular children’s book Charlie Numbers and the Man in the Moon by New York Times best-selling author Ben Mezrich and his wife, Tonya.

The story—in which the main character employs his mathematical skills to discover what happened to a box of stolen moon rocks—is the inspiration for an in-room scavenger hunt.

Players search for the “stolen” rocks, which are hidden throughout the hotel’s guest room.

Once the rocks are found, the reward is an awesome paper airplane kit that kids get to take home with them.

The book is entertaining for younger children and also middleschoolers, who can read independently.

As an author, I loved this clever collaboration—and so did my son.

JUST FOR KIDS The special kids’ package includes overnight accommodations in a redesigned deluxe guestroom as well as parking.

Upon check-in, kids receive a welcome Charlie Numbers– themed pastry and a signed copy of the book.

After settling into the room, the kids can dive into the in-room scavenger hunt and get to work on the paper airplane kit.

go

THE SWEET SPOT TAKING MEASURE OF INFINITI’S NEW QX50

by chris hodenfield

the snowdrifts. Price for a wellequipped version undercuts much of the European competition.

The revolutionary engine, being a “variable compression” turbo, provides a pleasant thrust.

All I noticed was that it had pep enough for frisky moves on the Fairfield County back roads and returned acceptable fuel mileage.

Vehicle dashboards these days go all over the place, and any serious shopper needs to spend time working the controls of the QX50 to see if it fits their sensibilities. Adapting to the Infiniti’s dash came quickly for

The exterior lines are also refreshingly modern without any silly grills. This vehicle looks like it’s going somewhere. And it will likely hold its looks for a long time.

Infiniti also sells a more compact model, the spritely QX30, and bigger, beefier brothers, the QX60 and QX80. But our tester had plenty of hauling space and a refined poise and balance. While a basic version of the QX50 with front-wheel-drive can be had in the mid-30s, the luxe version with all wheel drive is the one to get. The drive system was utterly unobtrusive and will navigate

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me. But those discrete buttons won’t be handled by anyone wearing heavy work gloves.

Still, the QX50 had a dashing sense about it with just enough luxury to feel good and plenty of room in back for all the dogs.

It’s well worth a look.

STATS INFINITI QX50 Base price: $41,000 (luxe model) Drivetrain: 268-hp, 2.0-liter four AWD EPA mileage ratings: 24/31 mpg

CONTRIBUTED

T

he car market will take care of your primal needs.

There are those solemn, portentous SUVs that make you feel regal. And there are the shifty, ultra-sporty crossovers that will positively shred your driver’s license. Then there are the few that hit the sweet spot exactly.

Infiniti’s newly designed QX50 is such a beauty.

For one, the QX50 provides superb visibility. In an age of cocoon-like interiors, you get a feeling of light and space. The materials are impressive and the passenger space plentiful.

home left: The store offers a complete line of furniture and accessories center: Shoppers can find both antique and contemporary pieces right: A dream resource for those who have a taste for mid-century design but also like to mix in other styles

HOME SWEDE HOME R

honda Eleish and Edie van Breems—the Scandinavian design duo known as Eleish van Breems (evbantiques.com)— launched their interior design firm in Woodbury over twenty years ago. After relocating their business to Westport in late 2015, they opened their eponymous design studio and showroom on Railroad Place. “Our studio was a darling toehold in Westport to see if we would be well-received, and we have been,” says van Breems.

“But it’s a small space, and it was difficult for designers to shop there with clients.”

Three years later, space is no longer an issue—Eleish van Breems Home, a new retail store,

has opened just steps away on Franklin Street. “Now we’re able to show the full breadth of our edit. We want people to feel welcome, comfortable and inspired.”

This next step was natural if not direct. “We were actually looking for a warehouse for our reproduction furniture line, which is handmade in Sweden and handpainted and finished here with Farrow & Ball paint,” says van Breems. “We wanted a space close to the studio, and after mentioning it to our landlord, he walked us around the corner and said, ‘How about here?’ ” The historic building had long been vacant, but the designers saw potential beneath

above: Choose from furniture to home accessories

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the carpeting from the ’70s and the dropped-down ceilings. They decided to lease the entire building and turn it into a combined retail space and warehouse.

The renovation includes chic clay walls, new rafters, Belgian floorboards and an Italian sound system. Visitors will find a blend of antiques, mid-century modern furniture, Gustavian pieces, contemporary photography, Mud Australia tableware, sheepskincovered Fritz Hansen armchairs from Denmark, Steiff stuffed animals, a beauty bar and artisanal home goods. “We’re not just Scandinavian; there’s so much more to us,” van Breems says. –Lauren Fetterman

PHOTOGRAPHY OF ELEISH VAN BREEMS HOME BY NEIL LANDINO

ELEISH VAN BREEMS OPENS A NEW RETAIL SPACE STEPS AWAY FROM THEIR STUDIO

EXPERIENCE. EXCELLENCE. RELATIONSHIPS. EXPERIENCE. EXCELLENCE. RELATIONSHIPS.

REMARKABLE EUROPEAN INSPIRED HOME REMARKABLE EUROPEAN INSPIRED HOME Westport | 17 Dogwood Lane | $2,700,000

SOPHISTICATED SOUTHPORT VILLAGE HOME SOPHISTICATED SOUTHPORT VILLAGE HOME Southport | 418 Harbor Road | $2,595,000

EMBRACE THE JOY OF THE COASTAL LIFESTYLE EMBRACE THE JOY OF THE COASTAL LIFESTYLE

A TREASURE NOT OFTEN FOUND I 4BR, 2 1/2 BTH A TREASURE NOT OFTEN FOUND I 4BR, 2 1/2 BTH Norwalk | 138 W. Norwalk Road | $614,900

Westport Dogwood Lane | $2,700,000 Alessandra| 17 Divino | 203.293.3988 Alessandra Divino | 203.293.3988

Fairfield | 771 Rowland Road | $2,250,000 Fairfield | 771 Rowland Road | $2,250,000 Jane Jones | 203.918.4751 Jane Jones | 203.918.4751

Southport Harbor Road | $2,595,000 Amy Curry |I 418 203.913.8744 & Karen Oztemel I 203.921.8490 Amy Curry I 203.913.8744 & Karen Oztemel I 203.921.8490

Norwalk | 138 W. Norwalk Road | $614,900 Sue Cooper | 203.434.3746 Sue Cooper | 203.434.3746

Search all homes for sale at bhhsNEproperties.com Search all homes for sale at bhhsNEproperties.com WESTPORT REGIONAL | 20 Wilton Road | 203.227.5117 WESTPORT REGIONAL | 20 Wilton Road | 203.227.5117 © 2019 An independently operated member of BHH Affiliates. Equal Housing Opportunity. © 2019 An independently operated member of BHH Affiliates. Equal Housing Opportunity.

eat above: Liz Rueven of the blog Kosher Like Me shares the joy of fresh, healthy food

ROOTED IN HEALTH

FRESH-AND-LIGHT CHANUKAH

EATING ORGANIC AND KOSHER, WITH LIZ RUEVEN

T

he holiday season is full of warm family gatherings and delicious, rich food. However, before you pile up a plate with brisket, challah and gravy, take a helpful and healthful tip from Liz Rueven. She founded her blog, KOSHER LIKE ME (kosherlikeme .com), during Rosh Hashanah in 2011. A new empty-nester at the time, Liz found a satisfying purpose and passion in researching where she and her husband could eat kosher while dining out. She also enjoyed incorporating locally grown, organic produce in the kitchen, as rooted in the Jewish tradition set by her grandparents.

A proud flexitarian, Liz creates recipes that adhere to a vegetarianbased diet—lots of seasonal fruits and vegetables—but her culinary creations don’t restrict other foods, as long as they are properly grown and ethically sourced. At right, her top-three mindful eating practices to avoid guilt and those five extra pounds. She shares her healthy take on a classic Chanukah recipe at westportmag.com; find plenty more, and food-related finds, on her blog. –Joey Macari

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GO GREEN

ADD FRUIT

LIMIT THE LATKES

“I shop at the Westport Farmers’ Market (above) to buy the freshest vegetables and fruit to incorporate into Chanukah meals. Buying produce grown and stored locally is wise—not only will these ingredients yield better flavors, you’ll be supporting our local economy and reducing your carbon footprint.”

“When you’re at the market, seek out farmers who have stored autumn fruit, like apples and pears. Be sure to make a fresh-fruit compote to accompany traditional potato pancakes or other celebratory dishes you may be serving.”

“While it’s traditional to eat fried foods during Chanukah, I don’t want the eight nights of the holiday to be a weight-gaining celebration. I try to limit my latke—potato pancakes—consumption to one night with my family and one night with friends.”

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PHOTOGRAPH OF LIZ BY EMILY HAMILTON LAUX; FARMERS MARKET BY GARVIN BURKE; APPLES, ©ANTON IGNATECO/STOCK.ADOBE.COM; LATKES BY LIZ RUEVEN

Liz’s easy and mindful switches for a healthful holiday

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.

winvianfarm.com

eat

NOW SERVING

WHAT’S NEW ON THE WESTPORT FOOD SCENE by georget te yac oub

F

rom organic, locally roasted coffee to indulgent Italian fare, new and notable food spots are opening up. Places are extending beyond their home base and setting up in Westport. For example, Ignazio’s (pronounced in-yat-s-zio—don’t mess it up) comes to us via New York City and Shearwater out of Fairfield. They set up next to each other on the Post Road, so we dropped in for a taste. Here’s what we learned, and loved, about them.

IGNAZIO’S

above: Grab and go with your fresh cup of coffee or take a seat and stay awhile in the café.

SHEARWATER COFFEE BAR The story of Shearwater Coffee Bar started with a passionate home roaster named Ed Freedman. He had been living in Fairfield County for more than thirty years and waiting for a specialty coffee shop to come to the area, but to no avail. So, he started a commercial coffee-roasting business himself, and eventually opened two coffee bars: the first in Fairfield and now in Westport.

“You know you’re in a specialty coffee shop when your drink is being

above: Ground and whole-bean bags of Shearwater coffee and espresso

expertly prepared by a trained barista with better equipment,” he says. “It’s a craft.” Now, Shearwater roasts about 80,000 pounds of coffee a year—all small-batch, organic and high quality.

Freedman is on a mission to upgrade the quality of coffee throughout the state. Shearwater Coffee Bar is way of furthering that mission as it offers an alternative to towns that don’t have specialty-coffee shops.

Quality is a major focus of the coffee bar. There are no syrupy sweeteners or sugar-laden creamers to be added to the beverages. Instead, the focus is on bringing out the coffee flavor of each cup using minimal but high-quality ingredients. “We want you to like the coffee, not cover it up,” Freedman says.

When it’s cold out, a customer favorite is the eggnog latte, which is frothed with high-quality milk to make it extra special. “There are already enough places that do the sugary stuff,” he says. Adding about his own coffee bars: “It’s about the quality of the underlying coffee, and that’s where specialty coffee shines.”

Ignazio’s is known for its wood-fired, thin-crust pizza made special by using only the finest ingredients. Termini grew up with a grandmother and mother who made pizza at home. “Part of what makes what we do special is my father is Sicilian and my mom is French,” he says. “Because my mom is French, the cooking is just better overall.”

Over the years he often stopped in Westport for lunch. “Out of the corner of my eye, I’ve always had an affection for it,” he says. A realtor found a location for him in town and that’s how Ignazio’s landed here.

Don’t expect to see now-popular ingredients like pork belly, kale and Brussels sprouts on Ignazio’s pizza menu. “I don’t like to follow trends,” Termini says. “Although, I might contradict myself. There’ll be a few surprises.”

above: Authentic New York–style pizza is sure to be a crowd-pleaser in Westport

SPECIAL TREAT! For Georgette’s take on Mystic Market, The Meatball Shop and Chef’s Table, head to westportmag.com.

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SHEARWATER BY GARVIN BURKE; CONTRIBUTED

Eleven years ago Louis Termini’s godson asked him to try a slice of pizza at a legendary place in Brooklyn. A hundred people seemed to be in line. “It made me so sick,” he says. “I said, ‘I’m out of here. I’m going back to Connecticut.’ ” As he walked around a corner under the Brooklyn Bridge on his way home, he happened to see a vacant space with a sign in the window reading: “Space Available.” Immediately he made a promise: “Dear God, let me have this space. I’ll be good for two weeks.” He laughs while recounting the story.

Termini opened Luna Pizza in 1990 in the Hartford area. Over time, it expanded to seven locations in the county. He sold the business to family and returned to his native New York borough where he had found the vacant space under the bridge. He fired up the pizza ovens again.

Cavawinebar.com New Canaan

Scenawinebar.com Darien

harvestwinebar.com Greenwich Westport New Haven West Hartford New Haven,

55winebar.com Fairfield

southbayct.com Greenwich New Haven

drink by joey macari

above: This year Teroforma launched its collection of all-natural, multi-ingredient, dry infusion blends for alcohol and spirits, 1pt (as in, great cocktails start with one part infusion). Customers and partners can stop by the 1pt Tasting Bar at the Norwalk office to discuss the brand over cocktails. right: Andrew and Anna Hellman, cofounders inset: Cinnamon Blend infusion

RAISE A GLASS TO TEROFORMA, WHO WANTS TO TURN YOU INTO THE BEST MIXOLOGIST IN YOUR SOCIAL CIRCLES THIS SEASON

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ime to get into the holiday spirit(s), and be extra nice to your friends and family—while showing off your home entertaining skills.

Mix up your bash with fun cocktail creations with help from Teroforma (teroforma.com). “The Craft Cocktail Revolution is over,” proclaims Andrew Hellman, CEO and owner.

“Craft won.”

In 2007 he and his wife, Anna, founded the Norwalkbased brand, which prides itself on its imaginative, artisan bar, kitchen and tableware. Hot picks

include quality whiskey stones and statement-making serving trays, which are as perfect for get-togethers as for a cozy night in by the fire.

The brand’s craft-cocktail infusions, with a variety pack of seasonal flavors like cinnamon, chocolate and smoky, is an essential find. Its 1pt Infusion Blends and Kits kick drinks up a notch by incorporating fresh-dried ingredients and leaving out sugars, preservatives, oils and artificial flavoring. “Our 1pt infusions give

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THE HONEYCRISP INGREDIENTS 2 oz. 1pt No. 005 CinnamonInfused Bourbon (blend is orange zest, apple, cinnamon, rooibos and ginger) 2 oz. Apple Cider ½ oz. Maple Syrup ¾ oz. Lemon Juice Infusion Time: 5-6 hours

DIRECTIONS Combine all ingredients in shaker.

Shake and strain into coupe glass, garnish with apple slices

ALL IMAGES COURTESY @TEROFORMA

TOASTY!

nonprofessionals a way to make pro-level craft cocktails at home in a fast and easy way without all the fancy tools and ingredients.”

The infusion kits and giftware are your secrets for transforming you into a bonafide bartender extraordinaire, at least at home.

Ready to get started? At right is Teroforma’s recipe for The Honeycrisp, a wonderful drink for the chilly days. “The Honeycrisp includes your choice of bourbon, infused with our 1pt N°005 Cinnamon Blend for a simple cocktail full of fall flavor,” says Kate Fiore, 1pt Mixologist. “Gourmet autumn notes combine perfectly with the subtle sweetness of bourbon and a short list of seasonal household mixers. The result is an instant fall classic cocktail, as delicious as it is simple to make. You can serve The Honeycrisp warm or chilled.” Either way, it’s sure to awaken the taste buds of party people this season.

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we give this celebration a TEN! SPECIAL THANKS TO ALL OF OUR 2019 SPONSORS SPECIAL THANKS TO ALL OF OUR 2019 SPONSORS PRESENTING SPONSOR LEVEL 1 PRESENTING SPONSOR LEVEL 1

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people&PLACES by joey macari

PHOTOGRAPHS BY MOFFLY MEDIA’S BIG PICTURE, PAMELA EINARSEN 1

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WESTPORT LIBRARY / Booked for the Evening

Duly Noted

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he Westport Library took the occasion of the twentyfirst annual Booked for the Evening event to unveil its $21 million renovation, which took two years to complete. The event recognized the talents and contributions of world-renowned pianist Frederic Chiu. The Westporter is a Yamaha Artist (a prestigious collective of critically acclaimed artists), and concert pianist for the BBC Concert Orchestra, the China National Symphony and the Hartford Symphony, to name a few. “It was a no-brainer for us to honor Frederic," Bill Harmer, executive director of the library, told the audience of 400 library supporters. “His passion encourages us all to share the joy of creativity.” Chiu performed on a Disklavier piano, which was donated to the library by Stacy Bass, who serves on the committee, and David Waldman. The event was cochaired

by Candice Savin and Wendy Brown. »

1 Deb and Chris Sawch, Pat Wieser, Paul Myerson and Jeff Wieser 2 Library Executive Director Bill Harmer introduces Frederic Chiu 3 Bob Mitchell, Jeff Ruden and Mary Ellen Marpe 4 The happy audience fills the new Christian J. Trefz Forum 5 The pianist at the new Disklavier piano 6 Jeff Mayer and Nancy Diamond 7 Linda and Iain Bruce 8 Stacy and Howard Bass NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2019 WESTPORT

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1 Julie Andersen, Sheilah Smith 2 Honorees with Linda Autore 3 Leif Andersen, Neil Storer 4 Steven and Janice Segure 5 Julie and Leif Andersen 6 Andrea and Dr. Andrew Gerber 7 Jane Condon 8 Ann Rogers, Jay Boll 9 Michael Autore, Garrett Kirk 10 Kate Kiguradze, Julie Andersen

LAUREL HOUSE / An Evening with Laurel House

Our Heroes

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ore than 300 guests attended Laurel House’s An Evening with Laurel House.

The event, which was held at Delamar Hotel and l’escale in Greenwich, was a fundrasier for the Stamford-based nonprofit. Laurel House provides resources and opportunities for people living with mental illness to lead fulfilling and productive lives. Guests enjoyed a cocktail hour, followed by an elegant dinner and the 2019 Champion of Recovery Award presentation to Dr. Andrew J. Gerber, president and medical director of Silver Hill Hospital. Recognition also went to Nancy Herling of Darien, Adrianne Singer of Greenwich, Paul Reinhardt of New Canaan and Rey Giallongo and Cheryl Palmer of Stamford. » westportmag.com

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PHOTOGRAPHS BY BIG PICTURE, MARILYN ROOS PHOTOGRAPHY

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02.27.20

24 HOURS TO GIVE WHERE YOU LIVE FEBRUARY 27, 2020 Be part of our region’s Biggest philanthropic event of the year – fairfield county’s giving day Powered by Fairfield County’s Community Foundation, this dynamic 24-hour fundraising event unites our community — all 23 towns and cities — around local causes and nonprofit organizations that are closest to your hearts. And with your help, we’re set to break records in giving in 2020!

LEARN & GIVE: FCGIVES.ORG GIVING DAY IMPACT SINCE 2014

OVER 1,200 NONPROFITS HAVE BENEFITTED

OVER $7.6 MILLION RAISED

OVER 79,000 DONATIONS

thank you to our media partner moffly media for their generosity.

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Our Mission The mission of Breast Cancer Alliance is to improve survival rates and quality of life for

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those impacted by breast cancer through better prevention, early detection, treatment and cure.

To promote these goals, we invest in innovative research, breast surgery fellowships,

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regional education, dignified support and screening for the underserved.

If you would like to learn more about BCA, please visit breastcanceralliance.org

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Contact us!

Breast Cancer Alliance 48 Maple Avenue Greenwich, CT 06830 P 203.861.0014 F 203.861.1940

1 Silent auction 2 Michele Ferguson Nichols, Janet Nazarian and Kyle Haines 3 Aarti Khosla, owner Le Rouge Chocolate 4 Barbara Raffel and Jo Fuchs Luscombe 5 Paul Flynn of Total Wine and guests 6 Jaime Johel from the Cup Bearer in Stamford 7 Westport First Selectman Jim Marpe and his wife, Mary Ellen, with Betty Lou Cummings 8 Spread owners Shawn Longyear, Chef Carlos Baez, Chris Hickey and Andry Cortes 9 Cochair and CLASP Development Director Robin Hammond, Paul and Patty Garavel and Lisa Larcheves of Garavel Auto Group

Executive Director

www.facebook.com/ breastcanceralliance

@BCAllianceCT

@breastcanceralliance

CLASP / Taste of Westport

In Good Taste

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LASP welcomed guests from all over Fairfield County for the fifteenth annual Taste of Westport at the Westport Inn. The event raises money to support the organization’s year-round efforts to provide work opportunities and housing for adults with autism and developmental disabilities. Two dozen area restaurants provided food—including small plates of oysters, pulled pork sliders and crudités—for guests to sample as they mingled. They also served wine and cocktails and sweet treats. The fundraiser also featured a silent auction on such items as Yankee tickets, spa treatments and specialty food packages and entertainment by Bar Car Band, which kept the night rockin’ with ’80s and indie rock jams. » westportmag.com

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PHOTOGRAPHS BY FIDES OSTBYE, JOHN VIDELER AND TONY RIGGIO

Yonni Wattenmaker

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Attention Best of Winners!

M O F F LY M E D I A

GOLD COAST C O N N E C T I C U T • 2019

You asked for it and we listened!

We received hundreds of requests on how you can get additional marketing materials and signs to announce YOUR BEST OF WIN! We’re proud to announce Moffly Media’s official Best Of The Gold Coast & Best Of Town ONLINE STORE!

Proudly display your win to the community with:

COUNTER CARDS

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ORDER NOW at bestofgoldcoastct.com These special keepsakes provide yearlong in-store marketing for your business!

CONGRATULATIONS again on being a 2019 winner!

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SAUGATUCK BEACH LIVING

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1 Writer Emily Liebert 2 Second Selectman Jen Tooker, owner of JL Rocks Jamie Camche, Amy Falkenstein and Emily Rosnick 3 150 guests joined in the event 4 Author Heather Frimmer with Suzanne Leopold of Suzy Approved Book Reviews & Tours 5 Emily Liebert talks with Alisyn Camerota 6 Jack Mitchell, chairman of Mitchells stores, greeted guests 7 Goody bags 8 Bestselling author Emily Liebert with (back row) Robyn Barger, Jessica Melman, Amy Falkenstein, Jordana Gringer, Anne Epstein, Heather Bauer, Emily Rosnick, Zac Mathias, Shari Lebowitz; (front row) Jen Goldberg, Ali Cammeyer, Jenn Falik, Anne Greenberg and Nina Clarke

8 Sandpiper Road | Westport, CT $3,500,000 | Web# CT170138517 One-of-a-kind Westport beach gem with sweeping views of Long Island Sound, located on coveted Saugatuck Island, a private community with its own beaches.

This exquisite, custom home is the ultimate entertaining house, with a light-filled open floor plan that takes full advantage of breathtaking water views.

PHOTOGRAPHS BY JOEL BARHAMAND PHOTOGRAPHY

EMILY LIEBERT / Book Signing for Pretty Revenge

For the Thrill

JEANNETE FLOTO

THE FIELDSTONE GROUP AT DOUGLAS ELLIMAN REAL ESTATE

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itchells hosted a book launch event for USA Today best-selling author Emily Liebert. Her new novel is titled Pretty Revenge. The acclaimed author, who resides win Westport, sat down with Alisyn Camerota, co-anchor of CNN’s New Day, to discuss the revenge thriller and other career achievements. Guests were treated to a special book signing, tasty libations and small bites. The evening concluded with gift bag, which included nail polish to match the book theme. Westport magazine was the exclusive media sponsor of the chic event; Liebert has been a longtime contributor and serves as the publication’s well-traveled book correspondent. » NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2019 WESTPORT

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O: 203.622.4900 M: 917.570.7418

elliman.com/connecticut 88 FIELD POINT ROAD, GREENWICH, CT 06830 203.622.4900 © 2019 DOUGLAS ELLIMAN REAL ESTATE. ALL MATERIAL PRESENTED HEREIN IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATION PURPOSES ONLY. WHILE, THIS INFORMATION IS BELIEVED TO BE CORRECT, IT IS REPRESENTED SUBJECT TO ERRORS, OMISSIONS, CHANGES OR WITHDRAWAL WITHOUT NOTICE. ALL PROPERTY INFORMATION, INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO LISTINGS SHOULD BE VERIFIED BY YOUR OWN ATTORNEY, ARCHITECT OR ZONING EXPERT. EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY.

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FAIRFIELD COUNTY’S COMMUNITY FOUNDATION / Fairfield County Giving Day

Give Way

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he sixth annual Fairfield County Giving Day raised $1,719,686 from 11,742 donors across 415 nonprofits in just twenty-four hours. The event, powered by Fairfield County’s Community Foundation, brought dozens of supporters to The Klein Memorial Auditorium in Bridgeport to raise funds in twenty-four hours online for participating organizations across multiple towns. The nonprofits covered several areas of support, including the arts, human services, environmental causes, mental health and women’s issues. Guests enjoyed drinks and light bites on the main stage, cheered the presentation of prizes and mingled with sponsors. Curtain Call in Stamford was the leading donor for the sixth straight year, and Moffly Media was Giving Day’s premier regional magazine sponsor. » westportmag.com

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PHOTOGRAPHS BY BIG PICTURE, MARILYN ROOS PHOTOGRAPHY

1 Kevin Begley 2 Bill Tommins with members of Fairfield Center Stage 3 Bridgeport Mayor Joseph Ganim 4 Brenda Schoolfield, Elancy Cromwell, Robie Spector, Carolyn Vermont 5 Doran Wright, John Heyder 6 Carol Heller, Juanita James, Stamford Mayor David Martin, Doreen Madden, Senator Tony Hwang, Bill Tommins, Bridgeport Mayor Joseph Gamin and Newtown First Selectman Dan Rosenthal 7 RYASAP Executive Director Marc Donald and Kristy Jelenik 8 Brynne Bartiromo, Jonathan Moffly, Beth DeMarte and Rebecca Mandell

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children and families served since 1978 Need help? Not sure? Call our 24-hour free, confidential helpline for guidance

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NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2019 WESTPORT

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THE RIDGEFIELD PLAYHOUSE

Non-profit 501 (C) (3)

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FREE WINE TASTING & ART EXHIBIT BEFORE EACH SHOW!

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1 Zorba and Kristin Lieberman, Lorraine and Ken Palumbo 2 Michelle Murphy, Daniela Mahr, Denise and Chris Tait 3 Homes with Hope's Jeff Wieser welcomes the crowd 4 Bryon Stevens, Eric Emmert, Tim Lewis and Tom Banks 5 Alison and Justin Dembo, Tom and Kelli Walsh Holleman 6 Summer Night Cochairs Donna Bacro, Liz Videler and September Stevens with Jeff Wieser

ALSO COMING UP

12/6

HOMES WITH HOPE / Summer Night

White Hot

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he third annual Summer Night fundraising event drew 150 people to support Homes with Hope’s Project Return at the Saugatuck Rowing Club. It was a gorgeous night by the water, with cocktails, dinner and music, and guests donning all white to honor the event theme. The fundraiser served to raise awareness and support programs designed to care for and empower homeless women ages eighteen to twenty-four. Moffly Media was the proud media sponsor for the evening.

203.438.5795 • RIDGEFIELDPLAYHOUSE.ORG

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PHOTOGRAPHS BY JOHN VIDELER AND TONI MICKIEWICZ (VOGLER PHOTO)

4/26

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CELEBRATE YOUR WEDDING

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STOCK.ADOBE.COM

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We welcome wedding announcements together with candid photographs. Weddings should have a current Westport, Weston or Wilton family connection and must be submitted within three months of the wedding day.

Regretfully, we are unable to run every wedding submitted.

Send Information to: Joey.Macari@Moffly.com Westport Magazine | 205 Main Street Westport, CT 06880

1 Captain Christopher Bradbury, President of Weston EMS Jon Weingarten, Chief Michael Schlecter, Captain Mark Goldenberg 2 Chairman of Weston Police Commission Willam J. Brady with Jon Weingarten and Police Commmisioner Jess DiPasquale 3 Chief of Weston EMS Michael Schecter with Jon Weingarten 4 Police Commissioners: Beth Gralnick, William J. Brady (chairman), Dawn Egan, Jess DiPasquale and Susan Moch

Join the

year-end challenge... ...so pets are home for the holidays.

BOARD OF POLICE COMMISSIONERS / Citizen of the Year

Model Citizen

PHOTOGRAPHS BY CONNOR GOLDEN

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MS President Jon Weingarten was named Weston Citizen of the Year by the Weston Board of Police Commissioners. The serendipitous occasion was held at the Town Hall Meeting Room with a packed room of supporters, friends and family. Weingarten, who is the CEO/ owner at Dazian LLC, celebrated forty years of service to the Weston EMS at the time of the ceremony. The Weston EMS is able to carry out its mission to protect and provide emergency support to the town solely through generous contributions and are proud participate in many community-service activities year round. W

Accepting gifts of cash, shares of stock and from donor-advised funds

Newington Westport Waterford Fox Memorial Clinic CThumane.org NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2019 WESTPORT

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above: Reindeer greet guests in the foyer. left: The warm creamy wall color and metallic demi lune table link the inviting space to the dining room.

by diane sembrot | phot o gr aphy by h ulya kol abas

Winter Wonderland A Wilton Home Gets a dreamy design makeover

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this page: The gathering room, located just off the kitchen, is a cozy place to relax.

Plush fabrics and lots of texture are layered throughout the space. opposite, top: The stone-colored furniture, with minimal lines, enhance the artwork. opposite, left: The custom wall art was commissioned for the space. The organic shine was a must-have element. opposite, right: A reading space in soothing shades of blue, gray and cream.

Amy Coe. You know the name from the sweet nursery

bedding and accessories you eyed in Target. You know her from the trendy collection for intants and toddlers at Babies R Us. You know her from the store she had in Westport. And you know her from the referrals your friends suggest when you’re looking around your living room and hear yourself saying those magic words: “Maybe I should make some changes here.”

Over the last nine years, Coe has been guiding her interior-design business off the strong tail winds of her earlier entrepreneurial success.

The proof of her enduring good design taste is found in her AMY COE HOME projects, including an astonishing project in Wilton. A complete overhaul of a New England Colonial created an escape that works for a well-traveled and sophisticated couple and their children. It finds spaces for home entertaining, hosting extended family, quiet time, childhood fun and studies, and a man cave that is three long leaps beyond enviable—and all of it is leap years beyond Coe’s established cute brand. Coe is cool.

STOCK REPORT When Coe first saw the house, she started taking stock of what she was working with: A Colonial with seven bedrooms, eight and a half baths, plenty of rooms and a beautiful backyard. The owners bought it in 2014 and were thinking about moving, but ultimately decided to renovate instead. “This project was a reimagined space for my clients, a fresh start,” she says, “a great floor plan honoring the classic character of the

above, left: The bright white kitchen is a minimalist’s dream, with a fun pop of color. above, right: The marble of the countertops repeat the gray hue used elsewhere in the room. opposite: The statement-making drop lighting brings a rush of fresh, contemporary energy into the heart of the home.

architecture—all with a new modern perspective.” The designer had a blank slate and cooperative clients—this fired up her passion for creating a redesign that would work for the homeowners, offer immediate delights and reveal the designer’s thoughtful details over time.

Having had the home emptied at the outset helped Amy be selective about what would go in. She was critical of each decision—evaluating every piece of furniture, choices about wall color, placement of personal décor, coordination of lighting, selection of kitchen hardware, texture on contrast interplay—and what each would bring to the final effect.

“It was critical to design with the idea of cozy minimalism, statement accessories and hand-selected furniture with clean lines. Nothing formal,” she says. Amy embraced “the less-is-more ethos, gathering sumptuous fabrics and beautifully crafted furniture with a focus on texture and a warm, inviting design aesthetic. Designing the space with an ease for entertaining was intentional, as often house guests travel from overseas and stay for a lengthy period of time.” It also makes day-to-day living pretty special, too.

with a masterful mix of modern furniture with a nod to texture, scale, treasured artwork—every piece has a story—and a true preference to no color or color with a hint of their favorite: a soft balanced blue-gray,” says Amy. “Soft color is a great way to establish links from one room to the next, but it is very important not to be too matchy. Greige accents exudes a richness without being too stuffy.” The consistency is peaceful, with graceful twists, like noticing facets of a whole.

The layers of details throughout the home add sparks of interest. Take, for example, the lighting. “Lighting is a passion of mine. I always tackle it head on, scouring markets for one-of-kind pieces, taking time to uncover new resources while I travel, working with vendors to design custom fixtures with paint and metal finishes,” she says. “Lighting sets a tone. I thought of each piece as an added jewel on the completed space.”

The list of design decisions was long, and the homeowners were on board for nearly all of it. “There were only a few nudges here or there during the design process. For example, I insisted on the addition of wall coverings in the first-floor powder room. The extra layer of personality paired with the sconce symmetry is key to making the small space feel collected, not cluttered or crowded.”

She also did a little more nudging in the dining room, which is located just off the foyer. But the designer had her reasons for urging her vision; she

DESIGN DECISIONS The furniture is placed properly; décor and artwork are positioned to direct the eye; window treatments add to the balance—and color works at the macro level. “I wanted the house to truly reflect the homeowners

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“lighting sets a tone. I thought of each piece as an added jewel on the completed space.”

—amy coe

The grand custom OCHRE chandelier, a masterpiece of lighting, takes center stage at the entrance of the home and is framed by the four hallways of the second floor.

believed it would ultimately make her clients happy. “I spent a great deal of time researching the sophisticated dining room fixture, since it is seen immediately upon entering the home and because large family gatherings are held in the space. Often, I pushed for the wow factor. It’s not formal— it’s just wow.” The decisions were right on target, and when everything was in place, no one could see the room being done any other way.

clockwise: Minimal lines of the furniture in a living room and echoed in the counter of a bathroom leave space to appreciate the charming details throughout—for example, the mirrored wall scone (top) and the loop edge of the window treatment (bottom).

CLIENT WISH LIST The homeowners, of course, also had their own asks, and these would serve as the point of departure for redesign of the space. For example, the

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homeowners wanted a contemporary master bath; Amy delivered “with a true design focus on ease and comfort, a place to recharge.” The room includes, “mirrored accents, a hint of clear crystal and a modern sputnik offer elegance, but not fancy, as the details are all a backdrop for the Carrara geometric floor.”

LET’S GATHER Home entertaining is important in this household. The owners often have friends over for holiday gatherings and extended family stay for visits. When it comes to designing a home that works for holiday celebrations with plenty of westportmag.com

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this page, clockwise: Soft shades of gray, metallic silver and a haze of taupe are featured throughout the master bedroom and bath.

Together, they create a calm, cohesive space. opposite: A masculine space, this office is grounded with worn steel, tufted leather and coarse concrete. The jet black sofas add to the cool factor.

According to Amy

branding, finding focus and a few faves The community finally had an opportunity to work directly with me, my team and a place to see the entire Amy Coe brand DNA. AMY COE HOME was launched with a line-up for eager clients: playrooms, nurseries, big boy and girl rooms, kitchens and renovations. It all grew into large, dreamy design projects.”

On launching in 1992: “As an enthusiastic collector of vintage textiles, with only a closet in New York to store them, I began designing one-of-a-kind toss pillows, baby booties, diaper covers and sun hats from my impressive cache. With many local boutiques snapping up the products as quickly as I could make them, I sensed a broader reach.”

On the distinctive look: “I focused my line on a sophisticated mix-andmatch collection: baby bumpers, crib sheets, dust ruffles, pillows and blankets. To the delight of mothers everywhere, my fresh approach to baby bedding was welcomed and encouraged a shift in the approach to nursery design.

Toile prints, oversized florals and layered nostalgic patterns became my brand signature. …twin, full and queen bedding was introduced just four years later.”

HEADSHOT BY DEBRA SOMERVILLE

On going national: “In January 2003, Target launched Amy Coe Limited Edition, a collection of baby bedding, layette, plush, diaper bags and gift wrap. During the exclusive partnership, the range grew to include toys, gear, feeding and more—adorable design, affordable prices. From my first big-box affiliation, I moved on to a sevenyear contract with Babies R Us. This was their largest, exclusive designer partnership awarded in the history of the company.”

On opening her Westport shop: “I wanted a local spot to call my own, a boutique to feature my bedding designs for baby and kids—plus a hand selection of luxe gifts, furniture, room decor and apparel. One new focus was on interiors, as the demand was high for personal interior design services.

On focusing on services: “This year, I launched amycoehome.com, a snapshot into the design work I have completed. …My approach is simple: listen and deliver for a handful of clients at one time; design spaces that are approachable and stand the test of time; and hunt and collect treasures. It’s all in the art of the mix.”

Favorite colors: Super white and matte black. “I love using black. It makes every space infinitely cooler.”

Best design source now: nytimes.com/section/ t-magazine/design Go-to place for inspiration: “I shop 200 Lexington and the D&D. For true inspiration, Roman & Williams Guild. I love buying dinnerware, accents and ceramics at Canvas Home. ABC Carpet & Home has been a great spot to meander. I love the way treasures are layered throughout the store.

I enjoy the hunt!”

guests or for big family dinners, Amy says she looks beyond just the dining room—it’s a bigger picture thing. “The flow in this house allows for easy entertaining. The first floor is flooded with sunlight—it’s warm, open and bright. From the moment you enter the grand foyer, the custom oversized, drizzle chandelier sets a welcoming and inviting tone. The large metal demi lune anchoring the foyer is a perfect spot to feature a few favorites, like a family of glitter reindeer and one simple, unadorned wreath. It’s a nod to holiday without a ton of fuss. Also, the artwork on display, an acquired piece by the homeowner, is front and center. It shines on its own. I added the metallic stump as an ode to bringing the outdoors inside.”

Of course, it’s well-known that most parties end up in the kitchen, and this one is big enough to host a lengthy RSVP list. The designer sees another plus to its size: “The grand scale of the kitchen helps to create balance. It’s a neutral backdrop—super white, polished nickel and gray cerused oak. For the holidays, floral sprays and berry branches add a little burst of color.”

For cocktail parties or for quiet chats with lingering guests, there’s one perfect space: “The open Gathering Room allows for seasonal greenery and fresh large holiday trees,” says Amy. “It’s a great spot to snuggle and lounge by the fire.” Just imagine a cozy moment with a couple of close friends, sharing a glass of wine and laughing over old times together. W

Fresh holiday decorating: “Put fresh greenery in the spotlight.

It enlivens the entire house and creates a holiday magic, casually.

For sculptural overflowing bouquets, try Silver Dollar Eucalyptus leaves. Create full and grand arrangements with magnolia branches—you don’t need many.

Pine always drapes for drama.

Add texture and shape with blue spruce and Redwood—some are sculptural, so it’s fun to experiment with the combinations. Uncover an heirloom vessel. It will bring you joy.”

Gift giving: “Every year I select a color scheme—never the green/ red combination—for gift wrap or ribbons. This year, I’m thinking black and crisp white with a hit of neon.”

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meet our 2019 light a fire honorees

TOGETHER WE RISE Their causes are varied, their goals are not—change lives and leave your corner of the world better than when you found it by jill johnson | phot o gr aphs by mel ani lust giovanna miller

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s the year comes to a close and we reflect on the ups and downs in our lives, we here at Moffly Media would like to take a moment to celebrate the people and organizations that make it their mission to bring others up. Year after year our Light a Fire honorees prove that the desire to help others burns brightly.

The class of 2019 continues the tradition: They engage kids with disabilities through animals; empower teenage girls; fund scholarships and mentor students; provide supplies to those wounded in combat; spend Sundays teaching peers coding; help immigrants integrate into the community; connect those in poverty with businesses that can guide them; give those with mental health issues a safe haven. One of these organizations touches 134 million lives each year. Another gives every one of its 32,000 employees two days off annually for volunteering.

We have also partnered with Fairfield County’s Community Foundation, an organization that promotes philanthropy as a means to create lasting change. We invited FCCF to highlight two groups that are closing the opportunity gap for the underserved of Fairfield County. This year’s honorees, Connect-Us and Building One Community, will each receive a $2,500 grant from FCCF. Our other honorees were chosen through nominations submitted by readers who were touched by their fortitude and compassion—as we know you will be as well. » greenwichmag.com

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a. reynolds gord on

reed ex h ibition s, yancy we inrich, c o o

catalina horak

purab angreji

pam lewis

michael parker

tracy mchale stuart

sheri west

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dr. nol an zeide & dr. steven zeide

LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD

a. reynolds gordon

organizations: Myron L. and Claire B. Gordon Foundation, Princeton, Yale, the Fugees (an immigrant soccer team), among numerous others

inspiration “My father founded our family’s foundation, so part of my inspiration is simply continuing in his footsteps,” says Renn Gordon, an Easton resident. “Part of it is that I consider myself very lucky. I was born from bright parents and I was able to go to the very best schools from grade school through law school.” The foundation’s focus is education, and Gordon, who attended Princeton and Yale Law School, actually funds half of the scholarship donations himself.

Mary Kay Frost, V.P. of Scholarships for the High School Scholarship Foundation of Fairfield, applauds Gordon’s generosity, humility and dedication to helping students “with substantial financial need attend college. Mr. Gordon shares with our graduating seniors the rules for a successful life that he inherited from his father—namely, work hard, be kind and do a good deed each day.”

courage into action The Myron L. and Claire B. Gordon Foundation has donated over $500,000 to Fairfield, Bridgeport and Easton schools. Gordon credits his father with funding the foundation, but he has added to the fund for the past decade and his commitment goes beyond finances. “He shines light through the interest he exhibits in the students and the advice he so willingly gives,” says Frost. “He meets with the proposed recipients, asks them about their interests and their goals, makes a connection with them and then offers advice that will be helpful in their individual situations.

He has attended every award ceremony at both Fairfield Warde and Fairfield Ludlowe.” westportmag.com

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In addition, Renn and Janet, his bride of twenty-five years, have been mentors for Princeton students interning in Connecticut, through Project 55, a Princeton class of ’55 project. Gordon has donated to Princeton annually for sixtyfour straight years and to Yale Law School for sixty-one years. The Gordons also have established a charitable remainder trust. “Upon our death, the money is Princeton’s, to be used for a series of lectures on the Rule of Law,” explains Gordon.

Always humble, he’s quiet about the fact that the remainder trust reaches seven figures.

Gordon sat on the Board of Directors of Park City Hospital in Bridgeport for over twenty years, and enjoyed being a Junior Achievement advisor in Bridgeport in the past. “I also had fun playing Santa Claus at Mercy Learning Center and handing out gifts to the poor at Christmas parties,” he says.

Gordon is active in the Democratic Town Committee in Easton and is a recipient of their Neary Award for community service. He has served on both the Pension and Benefits Committee and the Tax Relief for the Aging Committee for two decades.

hopes & dreams Grateful for the educational doors that have opened to him in his life, Gordon says, “I would love for other people to have the same opportunities I’ve had—as much and as many as possible.”

OUTSTANDING LEADER

giovanna miller organizations: American Red Cross, Greenwich United Way, YWCA, Stanwich School, Greenwich Country Day School, Greenwich Hospital, Breast Cancer Alliance, Junior League of Greenwich

inspiration “Inspiration came very early on,” says Greenwich resident Giovanna Miller. “My parents were both immigrants. They worked very hard. My grandmother always said no matter what you have, you have the capacity to give something. I was a Girl Scout. I volunteered at food banks. I learned that no matter what our financial responsibilities are, we have the responsibility to give back, and that’s what I try to teach my kids.” Miller put her career on hold to raise her boys and expected to return to work. “I started volunteering and was so moved, I never looked back,” she says. Once she learned the scope of the work of the Red Cross and that of every dollar, ninety-one cents goes to programs and services, she was hooked.

courage into action “Giovanna is the current Board Chair of the Metro NY North Chapter of the American Red Cross. Under her leadership over the past six years, she has grown the size of the board to forty members. It is now considered one of the most active and engaged American Red Cross boards in the country,” says Mary Young, CEO of the Metro NY North Chapter. “She also motivates a 700-plus volunteer workforce with her enthusiasm.

Giovanna leads by example—you can often see her donating blood, installing free smoke alarms, participating in CPR training, compiling medevac bags for wounded military members at

Walter Reed Medical Center, writing Holiday Mail for Heroes cards at Greenwich Hospital, or encouraging others to join our mission.”

Miller says: “It’s easy to write a check, and I’m always happy to do that; but what is most rewarding is being on the ground, helping the actual wounded and their families, walking the halls at Kids in Crisis or the YWCA, doing smoke alarm installations. We knock on doors in lower income housing, where often residents don’t have smoke alarms. That $10 alarm really may save lives.”

Miller reflects on her first visit to Walter Reed Medical Center: “It was so eye-opening seeing the patients there on crutches and in wheelchairs. We now put together medevac bags for them: basic hygiene items, snacks, water, blankets. We are Skyping with installations overseas to see what supplies we can send. We are constantly taking on these projects that no other board in the U.S. has taken on. The enthusiasm and passion among our board is infectious.”

hopes & dreams “I hope that more people get involved. Think of something you are passionate about. You are never too busy. In every area, there are people who have a need and don’t have the opportunities many of us have.

I hope my kids will follow in my footsteps, and it will continue for generations and generations.” »

BEST FRIENDS TO ANIMALS

dr. nolan zeide & dr. steven zeide

organizations: Stamford Animal Shelter Alliance, Project Precious, Save a Lab, Stamford Regional Agriscience & Technology Center, Stamford Dog Park (founder), Stamford Arboretum, St. Paul’s Day School, AVID Program and more

inspiration “It starts with the kids,” says Dr. Steven Zeide, who runs Bull’s Head Pet Hospital in Stamford with his son, Dr. Nolan Zeide.

“Pets and kids are so similar.

They’re honest, sincere and, in their own way, extremely appreciative. I’ve had a few people guide me along the way, and I feel we are on this earth to help, whether two-legged or four-legged creatures.”

The Zeides enjoy educating young people about pets and career options in veterinary medicine and animal science.

“Encouraging them to reach for their dreams is rewarding.

In some cases, kids don’t have direction, and we help them get back on track,” explains Steve. “I think our enthusiasm is contagious; we love what we do!”

Nolan adds, “When I was five or six, my dad would take my brother, me and our dogs to a senior home. This is what my dad had us doing when we were little kids. It has been a lifestyle for him and for us our entire lives.” Nolan was born and raised in Stamford. “I love this city and our schools,” he says. “I want to give back to the community that gives to me.”

courage into action For the forty years that Bull’s Head Pet Hospital has been open, the Zeides have spread kindness throughout the community: caring for the schools’ pets, teaching students of all ages about animals, speaking at events, promoting the dog park, improving the animal shelter. The Zeides also

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extend a 50 percent discount to nonprofit rescue organizations and mentor student volunteers.

“I’ll brag that five out of five [students] we’ve written recommendations for have gotten into vet school,” says Steve.

The heartwarming anecdotes are abundant. “I remember going to Stillmeadows School and speaking to some kids who had significant disabilities,” says Steve. “A month later I was at a cancer walk with my dog, and this girl in a wheelchair who could not speak indicated she recognized me and the dog. I had a similar experience at the Jewish Center, with a kid in the pool with an aide. When they remember you and they smile, you know you’ve touched them. It’s nice to feel you have made a mark.”

Nolan recounts coming full circle at an Earth Day Festival: “I spoke to 300 kids in the auditorium at Cloonan Middle School; I used to sit in those seats!”

hopes & dreams Nolan: “I want to inspire my kids so they inspire others.

I want them to take it to another level in spreading love and positivity.”

Steve: “For me, the future is now! It’s also important to look back, improve on who I am and the role our family plays in making this city a better place. I hope to continue helping pets and teaching people how to care for them.”

BEST FRIEND TO GIRLS

organization: LiveGirl

sheri west inspiration “I grew up in a small town in Michigan, and giving back was something we always did as a family,” says New Canaan resident Sheri West. “Working in corporate finance at GE, I had great success, but I also encountered obstacles that are unique to women. When I had kids, I began thinking more about this issue. About six years ago, we hosted a middle school girl through Fresh Air Fund. She was the same age as our middle child, and it really struck us that she had all the smarts our daughter has but none of the access to opportunities or mentors. At that moment, we sat down as a family and discussed starting LiveGirl.”

courage into action Since founding LiveGirl in 2014, West says she “spends every moment, even in my dreams, thinking about how to close the female leadership gap and how to achieve gender parity.”

In 2018, LiveGirl enrolled over 1,200 girls in its free leadership and mentoring programs in Bridgeport, Greenwich, New Canaan, Norwalk, Ridgefield, Stamford, Waterbury, Westport and Wilton. This year, LiveGirl partnered with the Connecticut Alliance of Boys & Girls Clubs to expand its middle school program statewide, and last summer 200 girls attended LiveGirl’s annual summer camp in New Canaan, with transportation provided from as far away as Waterbury.

Kate Reeves, LiveGirl Youth Advisory Board president and recent high school graduate, comments: “LiveGirl taught me to advocate for myself. For many of NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2019 WESTPORT

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my friends, LiveGirl allowed them to aim for goals or roles they had never pictured themselves in. For many middle-schoolers, LiveGirl is a community of kindness and support in a time when girls are so often taught to judge and compete. Sheri has mastered the art of empowering girls to empower each other.

This work is more vital than ever. Middle school girls face quickly decreasing rates of selfconfidence, which often continue into adulthood, manifesting in workforce trends where women are less likely to ask for a raise or less likely to speak highly of themselves in interviews. Sheri has identified this crisis and created an organization that teaches girls how to support each other, shows them the success they can achieve, and inspires them to advocate for themselves and one another.”

West is now established as an expert in girls’ leadership.

“It’s really rewarding to have organizations coming to us and asking us to run workshops,” she says, adding, “What we do resonates with parents now more than ever. The world we live in is challenging for girls, especially girls of color. We need to build up girls’ self-esteem and social and emotional intelligence.” She has a practical outlook regarding social media and the ills it feeds: “Teens aren’t going to give it up, so we have to teach them how to curate a positive experience.”

hopes & dreams “I have many: I dream of gender parity, of a female president, of more young women having the confidence to raise their hands and to step up into leadership positions.” »

inspiration “I believe it’s really important to give back,” says Michael Parker of Greenwich. “I started with Laurel House because I wanted to help people who were completely underserved. The stigma around mental health made it unpopular.

I liked that we were working with people who had no champions.”

Parker had no relatives plagued by mental illness but was aware of the scope of the problem.

“Seventy to eighty percent of the homeless were suffering from mental illness,” he explains.

OUTSTANDING HEALTH ADVOCATE

michael parker organizations: Laurel House, St. Barnabas Episcopal Church, Nicholas School of the Environment at Duke University, Americares, Baker Institute at Cornell University

courage into action “It’s rewarding making a difference at a hands-on level, westportmag.com

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which is what Laurel House does,” says Parker, who became involved when he joined its board in 1994. “I’m very proud of the progress we’ve made, especially over the last ten years.”

Linda Autore, Laurel House president and CEO, says: “During its thirty-five-year history, Laurel House has been served by many talented board directors, but none have devoted more time or energy or been more dedicated to mental health recovery than Michael. He has served an unprecedented two terms as chairman of the board. In his early years, Michael played a key role in the Capital Campaign Committee, which raised the funds for Laurel House to purchase the building it currently occupies in Stamford.

During his second term, he led a strategic planning process and search for a president and CEO. In 2014 Michael participated in the planning of two key initiatives: the Thinking Well program, addressing cognitive impairment associated with mental illness, and rtor.org, a website for those seeking help for mental health.”

Parker has overseen Laurel House’s transition to an organization with metrics showing outcomes. “We maximize services across a much broader age range than before.

Mental illness is now manifesting younger, unfortunately,” he says.

Over the decades with Laurel House, Parker’s children have taken notice. “They understand how good it feels to give back.

That legacy is the tremendous gift of this whole process.”

hopes & dreams “That Laurel House will continue to do what it’s doing and evolve to meet needs. I’ll continue to support Americares—I love the mission and that it’s local. We all need to look for the greater good. There’s nothing better than giving back.”

MOST DEDICATED BOARD MEMBER

tracy mchale stuart organization: Save the Children

inspiration “I’ve always felt a deep commitment to helping people, particularly those who are most vulnerable,” says Tracy McHale Stuart of Fairfield, who is a member of the Board of Trustees at Save the Children.

“Save the Children focuses on the most vulnerable populations in the world and delivers amazing work on a huge, huge scale. I’ve gone to see its work in several locations and each time I’m more impressed by the commitment and talent of its people. I’m very business oriented, and these people could work wherever they want and they choose to commit their time to this organization. It’s really humbling.”

Stuart, who is managing partner and CEO at New York City-based investment firm Corbin Capital Partners, supports more than a dozen local charities and has gotten her children involved in giving back through Southport Congregational Church. But despite running a business and having young kids, she’s eager to contribute on a larger scale.

“Save the Children is going to places where people are in desperate situations and dire conditions, and they are making an incredible impact. They get involved in the communities and just make things happen.”

courage into action Stuart was making things happen at Save the Children long before joining the board last February.

“For three years Tracy cochaired the Illumination Gala, our biggest

fundraiser of the year,” says Ann Marie Miles, senior director of Individual Philanthropy. “She has visited our programs around the world and taken the time to understand and support our mission to reach every last child.”

Save the Children has touched the lives of 134 million children in 120 countries this year alone.

“That’s a mind-boggling number,” notes Stuart, who took her family to Indonesia to see the work Save the Children is doing there. “Save the Children is so important to their community. It was fantastic to have our kids get a sense of what’s happening around the world outside their bubble.”

hopes & dreams “I’m on several committees, diving headfirst into the board, and going out to see the programs as much as I can. There is a lot going on at the organization regarding effectiveness: how to take the best ideas and best practices from any given location and apply them and scale up.

The businessperson in me is interested in how to operate more effectively and more efficiently over time.

But for now I have to earn my stripes.” »

high school at Greenwich’s India Cultural Center (ICC).

Perhaps Angreji’s pressing urge to give back developed in Scouts. “I started scouting in kindergarten,” he says, now an Eagle Scout. As a child of immigrants from India and a new kid in town, Angreji found it difficult to meet kids. “Scouting was a great way to get involved in the community, and it blossomed into meeting a group of people who were engaged and had a shared goal of creating a better future for people around us.”

courage into action

inspiration “When I was younger, I thought a lot about how I could amplify the impact I have on the world,” says Purab Angreji. “It was kind of like a midlife crisis but in eighth grade. How do I benefit others rather than living in a bubble?”

When his sister asked for help with her Girl Scouts Gold Award, Angreji started brainstorming.

“I gave her ideas on how to benefit the community longterm,” he explains. “With the current global state, a lot of professions will become our future, and the most important is technology. Tech coding classes for youth would help the next generation be prosperous.” The result was a coding curriculum he created and taught throughout

MOST DEDICATED TEEN

purab angreji

organizations: India Cultural Center, Scouts (Eagle Scout), Wilton High School Model Congress, WHS Debate Team, WHS International Club, WHS Band

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“Since he was a freshman, Purab traveled from Wilton to Greenwich twenty-four Sunday mornings a year to teach coding to grade-school students at ICC,” says Margie French, executive director. “Purab’s impact on ICC and on his students has been enormous,” she continues. “He is motivated to do good and do well. He is a role model to ICC children and admired by parents.”

Angreji recalls a highlight of teaching: “A group of kids decided to take what I was teaching them out of the context of making a game and think about how it could be applied in other fields, like medicine. That was rewarding, watching these kids who are just ten years old, applying what I was teaching them to better the world.”

hopes & dreams “I’m young still, so I tend to be quite optimistic,” says Angreji, who is a freshman at NYU’s Stern School, studying business and political economy.

“Business I think holds the most versatility for an individual to have the biggest impact.”

When he graduates, Angreji hopes to move up the corporate ladder in a larger firm so that he can implement programs for social good. “I’m interested in how to use business and capitalist benefits to directly benefit the social flow,” he says.

CORPORATE GOOD NEIGHBOR

organizations: Kids in Crisis, Bridgeport Rescue Mission, Norwalk Mentor Program, Connecticut Food Bank, Homes for the Brave, Ronald McDonald House, Catherine Violet Hubbard Animal Sanctuary, Habitat for Humanity, Ludlow Senior Center

reed exhibitions inspiration “Giving back is very important to our company,” says Yancy Weinrich, COO of Reed Exhibitions. The 32,000 employees at the U.K.-based company, with North American headquarters in Norwalk, are given two paid days off each year for charity work. “We encourage volunteering, and this goes from the top down across all our business units,” says Weinrich.

In the past few years, Reed Exhibitions employees have started volunteering together— forming teams, choosing a project and working together.

“For example, building a house for Habitat for Humanity,” she explains. “They spend a day together and feel good about what they’ve accomplished. It really builds morale.”

courage into action

“Employees at Reed Exhibitions are some of Kids In Crisis’ most dedicated and passionate volunteers,” says Beth Jabick, Corporate Partnerships Manager at Kids in Crisis. “Many volunteer on their own time, in addition to using their RE Cares time [their paid days off for volunteering].”

Beyond helping at the shelter, a holiday gift drive and monthly pizza dinners for Lighthouse meetings (for LGBTQ youth), Reed Exhibitions’ parent company, RELX, has helped fund the Kids in Crisis Teen Talk Program through an annual grant.

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employees mentor children in Norwalk schools through the Norwalk Mentor Program.

Reed Exhibitions also donates to Connecticut Food Bank throughout the year; and employees did seven projects with the Food Bank in 2018 alone. They also volunteer to create, serve and share a dinner with the homeless veterans served by Homes for the Brave.

“Our company has a number of veterans on staff, and this project is very close to their hearts,” comments Weinrich.

Other partners include Ludlow Senior Center, where Reed volunteers host a Christmas party annually; Ronald McDonald House, where volunteers create healthy lunches and give their time to help with Trees of Hope, the annual fundraiser; and the Catherine Violet Hubbard Animal Sanctuary in Newtown, being built in honor of a first-grader killed at Sandy Hook in 2012.

hopes & dreams “We hope that even more employees will get involved in volunteering,” says Weinrich.

“We hope to broaden our partnerships and footprint in the community. We are also moving to a new location where we are focused on creating a company culture our employees want to tell their friends about. We want to be known as a place that really cares.” »

FAIRFIELD COUNTY’S COMMUNITY FOUNDATION COMMUNITY IMPACT AWARD q&a with executive director of connect-us

pam lewis

to twenty-five, come together to take responsibility for supporting the growth of other young people.

They watch a lot of documentaries to understand what’s going on in the world and become critical thinkers. They invite others to participate in our programs. Since 2014, over 2,400 young people and their families have been engaged with Connect-Us.

What’s the mission of Connect-Us?

We bring together suburban and urban neighbors to improve the quality of outcomes for young people living in communities of concentrated poverty.

How does your mission fit with Fairfield County Community Foundation’s values?

One of the programs FCCF supports is our Connect-Us Academy. The academy is for young people, ages sixteen to twenty-one, who want to cultivate skills and learn to work in a professional business setting.

For fourteen weeks students attend after-school workshops at companies throughout Fairfield County. It helps all involved—not just the kids—to better navigate this increasingly complex world. We have corporate partners in various fields: finance, law, marketing, energy, interior design, fashion design, health administration.

The graduates are placed in paid summer internships. We placed twenty-four interns last summer, working for $14 an hour. FCCF actually had two interns.

State officials complain that it’s hard to attract businesses to Connecticut. I’ve spoken up about working to impact the culture. Businesses should

What does the future hold for Connect-Us?

I’m excited about the growth of our business partnerships. I think we could place twice as many interns next year. We are finding ways to tap into resources to support the growth of our kids. We have twenty-five partners, including Bridgewater, which leads résumé writing workshops. JPMorgan Chase is coming up to lead workshops. We are getting traction, and I’m excited about that.

Words of Praise

invest in the kids of Bridgeport.

Millennials want to work for companies that are socially responsible. We are that bridge— between the kids and the community/businesses. Our goal is to continue to find ways to bring people together who don’t normally come together. There’s no reason Connecticut couldn’t

be a good model for the country, given the level of inequality that exists in Fairfield County.

What is your organization’s biggest accomplishment?

I think it’s our youth leadership team. The team meets every Tuesday, September through May. These young people, ages fifteen

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Jill Egan, event planner at Bridgewater Associates, comments: “Pam’s after-school program adds huge value to the underprivileged population.

Connect-Us teaches important social skills, gives academic resources and really captures the essence of what it is to develop young leaders for society.”

FAIRFIELD COUNTY’S COMMUNITY FOUNDATION COMMUNITY IMPACT AWARD q&a with executive director of building one community

catalina horak we understand that fear and we address it and work with local elected officials, our partners and the community at large to provide the stable environment that everyone needs, that kids need.

We are committed to advocacy and applying our knowledge to shape immigration policies. We are a new organization—we are only eight years old—so also making sure people know who we are, build our brand, and be the go-to place for area immigrants.

What is the mission of Building One Community?

To support local immigrants on their journey toward being successful members of the community—what we call their integration journey. Our goal is to advance successful integration of all immigrants and their families regardless of where they are on that journey.

Some have been here working for ten years, with a basic level of education, and they still are not speaking English. Others, from the Middle East for example, have been exposed to English and a higher level of education and learn English rapidly. Each has different needs on their path to becoming contributing members of the community.

Words of Praise

How does your mission fit with Fairfield County Community Foundation’s values?

Immigration is one of FCCF’s core issues. They are all about closing the opportunity gap, serving the community, making sure everyone has a fair chance.

It’s exactly what we do. Ethnic diversity and inclusion— 80 percent of our staff are people of color, so we represent the people we are serving. We are about equity and collaboration.

the solutions many times are at the local level. We are part of the local solution.

What is your organization’s biggest accomplishment?

Making sure that we stay true to our values and mission during a time of very rapid growth and that we continue to facilitate the programs based on real needs and not our perception.

Immigration is such a national issue but also a local issue, and

What does the future hold for Building One Community?

These are very challenging times for many of the people we serve.

It’s a time of uncertainty and fear, so we need to make sure that

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Robert Wells, program coordinator of MAV Foundation (an organization dedicated to eradicating hunger) comments, “Through its Workforce Development Program, B1C offers an underserved immigrant population a chance to participate in certificate-based training in culinary and catering, home health aide, and construction and landscaping at no cost. B1C offers English language learning instruction for all ages. True to its name, B1C collaborates with over fifty organizations to provide access to education, healthcare, childcare, legal advice and more.

These collaborations are vital for the holistic, wraparound services that B1C supplies to over 3,300 community members a year.” W

6TH ANNUAL

RESTAURANT WEEK SAVE THE DATE

OPening Night Party @JHouse March 4 2020 6:00 – 8:30 •

•

Hungry for Business?

We’re serving up Sponsorships!

To be a participating restaurant or for sponsorship opportunities please contact Trish Kirsch 203.571.1644 • trish.kirsch@moffly.com

Greenwich Restaurant Week 2020 Runs March 7th-14th greenwichrestaurantweek.com

SAVE THE DATE

Thursday, December 5, 6 :30 – 9:30 p.m .

2019

Photos by Melani Lust

Please join us as we honor the extraordinary work of our community heroes.

Plus: Community Impact Awards, honoring two outstanding nonprofits Presented by Fairfield County’s Community Foundation

Platinum Sponsor

Gold Sponsor

Silver Sponsor

Silver Sponsor

A portion of the evening’s ticket sales will benefit Fairfield County’s Community Foundation

Become a Sponsor

Join us for

For more information & participant opportunities please contact Gabriella at 203.571.1626 • Gabriella.Mays@moffly.com

Moffly Media’s 12th Annual Light a Fire awards reception and cocktail party at the Westport Country Playhouse

to the rescue The life-saving work of wildlife in crisis in Weston by joey macari | phot o gr aphy by mel ani lust

I

n Walt Disney stories, a wise English nanny sings “Feed the Birds,” princesses have trustworthy woodland friends, and a gentle elephant and a courageous mouse find a heartwarming friendship. Behind the children’s songs and whimsical characters lie parables about harsh dangers that real animals face. From poaching and hunting, parent-offspring abandonment, and even climate change, the life-threatening dilemmas of our favorite furry, feathered and scaly friends are all too real. Dara Reid—founder of Wildlife in Crisis (WIC), a nonprofit organization founded on animal preservation and rehabilitation—is helping to set wildlife welfare, and the misconceptions about it, in realistic terms. This organization is righting animal injustices, one paw, hoof and beak at a time.

oppposite page: Actor and philanthropist James Naughton—who has long supported the life-saving work of Wildlife in Crisis—holds an injured owl at the center.

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When I saw what Dara and Peter Reid have been doing for the past three decades—taking injured and orphaned wildlife into their home and healing and feeding them until they can be released—I realized what an act of charity really looks like.

—James Naughton

“When I founded WIC thirty years ago in 1988, I wanted to create a nurture center for wildlife and serve as a resource for people seeking help with injured and orphaned wildlife,” Dara Reid says. “I have always had a passion and empathy for animals. As I matured, I realized that local wildlife needed a voice and a sanctuary.”

Wildlife in Crisis was founded in Weston. Dara and her team of volunteers nurture injured and abandoned wildlife back to health and, hopefully, return them to their natural environment. And when their homes are threatened by urban development, pollution or natural disasters, WIC steps in to educate the community and its lawmakers on the severe consequences of proposed actions. “I am a firm believer in letting nature take its course, but there is nothing natural about being hit by a car, entangled in fishing line, poisoned by pesticides or wounded by a domestic cat. Our main focus now is on continuity, ensuring that Wildlife in Crisis will remain in perpetuity for future generations of people and wildlife.”

With the help of Dara, her husband, Peter, and countless others, the nearly thirty-year-old organization continues to share its mission across Fairfield County, which Dara says is facing a hotbed of critical challenges.

“The fabric of our environment is being frayed. New England loses 23,725 acres of forestland per year to development, and our small state of Connecticut alone loses 3,700 acres each year. Unless permanently protected by a land trust, all land will eventually be developed for profit.

This is especially true in areas like Fairfield County, where property values have skyrocketed over the past thirty years.” westportmag.com

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HELPING BABY BIRDS For little ones who hoot, chirp or caw, WIC has plenty of guidelines to help.

If you find a baby bird on the ground, it may not be abandoned. Try to find a nearby nest or hang a woven basket filled with leaves on a branch. Place the bird inside, and the mother may come to feed her baby.

If you find a baby bird and no mother is in sight, you can try to incubate the baby bird in a makeshift nest, such as a small basket or bowl lined with toilet paper. Otherwise, try an aquarium lit by a forty-watt bulb that is twelve inches away from the patient. Feed the bird every half hour (usually a mixture of mynah bird pellets or dry dog food and water in an oatmeal consistency). The goal is to get the bird independent and able to feed and eliminate waste on its own.

Never feed it milk.

Also, you can touch it without worrying that the mother will reject it.

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Wildlife in Crisis accepts all species of native wild animals and cares for more than 5,000 each year. It prioritizes threatened and endangered species to ensure their survival and reintroduce them into the wild.

“Every animal is special in its own way and has his or her own story to tell.” —Dara Reid

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HELPING MAMMALS When helping squirrels, deer, foxes, raccoons, coyotes and other mammals, wear gloves at all times. If the animal shows signs of dehydration, rabies or injury, consult an emergency veterinary professional and do not handle or touch the animal.

Mammals are unlike birds. A mother deer, for example, will abandon the fawn if touched by a human.

In most cases, a fawn is not truly abandoned unless there is a dead doe in the area. A mother will return usually within twenty-four hours.

Also, do not remove a fawn because of predators, such as coyotes and house pets. These are situations every fawn must encounter in the wild. If you have to coax a fawn out of an area or it has already been handled, use gloves, wipe the fawn off with a dirt-covered towel and return it to its origin.

Also, if you see a nocturnal animal during the daytime, it doesn’t always mean rabies. Odds are, there’s a reason and season for them to be out. As for rabies, not a single human death has resulted from exposure to a rabid raccoon. (The two or three deaths every year have been attributed to the bat or canine strain contracted overseas.)

She adds that the most important thing we can do for wildlife and ourselves is to protect natural habitats from development. “I believe every bit of remaining open space is worth protecting, and I urge everyone to become active participants in local land-use planning and protection.”

She encourages the community to listen and to act. To help spread the word, the Wildlife in Crisis team maintains a Facebook page, which has earned plenty of five-star reviews. Here, people in the community share their own conservation news as well as handling opossums, tending to abandoned fawns, and other wildlife-related stories. Every day, Dara doles out plenty of insights, from informing the public on anthropogenic (human causing) hazards, such as driving, to giving accurate advice on dealing with the wounded and forsaken of our area’s remaining open spaces.

“If you care about wildlife, get involved with your local land trust and become a land-preservation advocate in your town,” concludes Dara.

“And on a day-to-day basis, make wise choices, such as avoiding toxic pesticides and plastics, watch for wildlife when driving, keep cats indoors and supervise your dogs.” Of course, it wouldn’t be a bad idea to support Wildlife in Crisis; more at wildlifeincrisis.org.

Dara and Peter Reid at Wildlife in Crisis’s woodsy sanctuary

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2019 WESTPORT

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THE GREENWICH HISTORICAL SOCIET Y PRESENTS

A N T I QUA R I U S

ANIMAL INSTINCTS

THE GREENWICH WINTER ANTIQUES SHOW

HOLIDAY BOUTIQUE November 6, 2019 | 6:00 pm to 8:30 pm November 7, 2019 | 9:00 am to 6:00 pm

HOLIDAY HOUSE TOUR LUNCHEON December 11, 2019 | 11:30 to 1:30 pm

Fine Art, Jewelry, and Antiques

Christ Church

December 7, 2019 | 10:00 am to 6:00 pm December 8, 2019 | 11:00 am to 5:00 pm

OPENING NIGHT: GREENWICH WINTER ANTIQUES SHOW

Eastern Greenwich Civic Center

Milbrook Country Club

HOLIDAY HOUSE TOUR

Celebrating Honorary Design Chair Bronson Van Wyck

December 11, 2019 | 10:00 am to 4:00 pm Reservations required (rain or shine) Generously sponsored by David Ogilvy & Associates

December 6, 2019 | 7:00 pm to 9:00 pm Eastern Greenwich Civic Center

TICKETS ON SALE NOW |

greenwichhistory.org/antiquarius

Advance ticket purchase required for all events with the exception of the Holiday Boutique

Reindeer Festival We’re Back Party

Friday, November 29, 12pm–6pm SAM BRIDGE NURSERY & GREENHOUSES 437 North Street, Greenwich, CT Santa Arrives at 12pm . Photos with Santa . Reindeer Arrive Carousel & Train Rides . Face Painting . Balloon Art Planet Pizza . Food Trucks

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Reindeer Festival

& Santa’s Village TM November 29-December 24, 2019

Greenwich Reindeer Festival & Santa’s Village

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Sponsors

A TMK & TLMN EVENT ©2019

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REINDEER FESTIVAL HOSTED BY:

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REINDEER FESTIVAL PRESENTING SPONSOR:

Byram . Cos Cob . Glenville . Riverside

Holiday Stroll

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Weekend 7 December 7-8, 2019

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Holiday Stroll

December 5 & 6

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Sunday December 6, 12 pm – 5 pm KICK-OFF PARTY to benefit Kids In Crisis

Thursday, December 5, 6pm–8pm SH O P • D I N E VINEYARD VINES • BE M E RRY 145 Greenwich Avenue, Greenwich, CT TIMES: Shop to Support Kids In Crisis Saturday, D ec. 5 WINE AND HORS D’OEUVRES1 0 am – 6 pm

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Schedule of Events:

SHOP . DINE . BE MERRY!See map for locations A L I V E N AT I V I T Y Saturday, 10am–6pm . Sunday, 12pm–5pm Hosted by F irst U nited M ethodist C hurch of

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BROADWAY

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Out of the Eclipse Friday, November 8, 2019 | 7 pm

“Goodness. Glorious.” – Theater Pizzazz Straight from a sold-out run at Feinstein’s/54 Below, experience this Tony Award-winner.

DANCE

Frédérick Gravel

Fear and Greed

Thursday, November 14, 2019 | 8 pm Friday, November 15, 2019 | 8 pm Saturday, November 16, 2019 | 8 pm

“For a thought-provoking and aesthetically on-point show that will make you chuckle with delight and rock out to your own existential crisis, check out Fear and Greed.” – Montreal Theatre Hub FAMILY FUN

Natalie MacMaster & Donnell Leahy

A Celtic Family Christmas Thursday, December 5, 2019 | 8 pm

A Celtic Family Christmas includes a line-up of familiar Christmas songs intermingled with classic Celtic and Irish tunes.

PHOTOGRAPHY

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SOCIAL MEDIA

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.

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Ownership Statement Westport Magazine U.S. Postal Service. Statement of Ownership, Management, and Circulation. (Required by 39 U.S.C. 3685) 1. Publication Title: Westport.

2. Publication No.: 1941-9821. 3. Filing Date: October 1, 2019. 4. Issue Frequency: 6 times. 5.

Number of Issues Published Annually: 6. 6. Annual Subscription Price: $19.95. 7. Complete Mailing Address of Known Office of Publication: 205 Main Street, Westport, CT 06880. 9. Full Names and Complete Mailing Addresses of Publisher, Editor, and Managing Editor: Gabriella Mays, Publisher, 205 Main Street, Westport, CT 06880. Diane Sembrot, Editor, 205 Main Street, Westport, CT 06880. Amy Vischio, Managing Editor, 205 Main Street, Westport, CT 06880. 10. Owner: Moffly Media. 11. Known Bondholders, Mortgages, and Other Security Holders Owning or Holding 1 Percent or More of Total Amount of Bonds, Mortgages, or Other Securities: None. 12. For Completion by Nonprofit Organizations Authorized to Mail at Special Rates: Not applicable to Westport Magazine. 13. Publication Title: Westport. 14. Issue Date for Circulation Data Below: September/October 2019. 15. Extent and Nature of Circulation: a.

Total Number of Copies (net press run): *8,409 **8,351; b(1). Paid/Requested Outside-County Mail Subscription Stated on Form 3541: *722 * 730; b(2). Paid In-County Subscriptions: *2,750 **2,779; b(3). Sales Through Dealers and Carriers, Street Vendors, Counter Sales, and Other Non-USPS Paid Distribution: *621 **625; b(4). Other Classes Mailed Through the USPS: *0 **0; c. Total Paid and/or Requested Circulation (Sum of 15b (1), (2), (3), (4): *4,093 **4,134; d.

Free Distribution by Mail (Samples, Complimentary, and Other Free): d(1). Outside-County as Stated on Form 3541: *0 **0; d(2). In-County as Stated on Form 3541: *1,431 **1,382; d(3).

Other Classes Mailed Through the USPS *0 **0; d(4). Free Distribution Outside the Mail (Carriers or Other Means): *1,606 **1,560; e. Total Free or Nominal Rate Distribution (Sum of 15d (1), (2), (3), (4): *3,037 **2,942; f. Total Distribution (Sum of 15c and 15e): *7,130 **7,076; g. Copies Not Distributed: *1,279 **1,275; h. Total (Sum of 15f, 15g): *8,409 **8,351; i. Percent Paid and/or Requested Circulation (15c divided by 15f. times 100): *57.4 percent **58.4 percent.

17. This Statement of Ownership will be printed in the November/December 2019 issue of this Publication. 18. I certify that all information furnished on this form is true and complete.

I understand that anyone who furnishes false or misleading information on this form or who omits material or information requested on this form may be subject to criminal sanctions (including multiple damages and civil penalties). Elena V. Moffly, Business Manager/Treasurer, October 1, 2019. *Average No. Copies Each Issue During Proceeding 12 Months. **Actual No. Copies of Single Issue Published Nearest to Filing Date.

BOB CAPAZZO PHOTOGRAPHY (203) 273-0139

westportmag.com

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advertisers index AUTOMOTIVE

FOOD, CATERING & LODGING

Land Rover Fairfield . . . . . . . . . . Cover 4

55 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39

ROXOR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .33

Bigelow . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47

Scap Chrysler Jeep . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41

Cava . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39 Harvest . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39

BUILDING & HOME IMPROVEMENT

Scena . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39

Clarke . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

South Bay . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39

Grand Entrance Gates . . . . . . . . . . . . 51

Winvian Farm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .37

Walpole Outdoors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

BUSINESS & FINANCE Cummings & Lockwood LLC . . . . . . . . 10

DECORATING & HOME FURNISHINGS Eleish Van Breems . . . . . . . . . . . Cover 3

EDUCATION & CHILDREN Fairfield University College of Arts and Sciences . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 The Princeton Review . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

HEALTH & BEAUTY Greenwich Medical Spa . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Hospital for Special Surgery . . . . . . . . 29 Nuvance Health . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

PEARL JAM

GUNS N’ ROSES

NIRVANA

METALLICA

SUBLIME

DEF LEPPARD

FOO FIGHTERS

RED HOT CHILI PEPPERS

GREEN DAY

SOUNDGARDEN

BEASTIE BOYS

STONE TEMPLE PILOTS

Stamford Health . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

JEWELRY Lux Bond & Green . . . . . . . . . . Cover 2, 1 Manfredi Jewels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Rolex . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Cover 2, 1 Vicenza Fope . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

ENTERTAINMENT 95.9, The Fox . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .87

NONPROFIT

Fairfield University Quick Center

Breast Cancer Alliance . . . . . . . . . . . 46

for the Arts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 85

Kids in Crisis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51

The Ridgefield Playhouse . . . . . . . . . . 52 Westport Country Playhouse . . . . . . . . 21

EVENTS 11th Annual Greenwich Reindeer

PET & PET PRODUCTS Connecticut Humane Society . . . . . . . .53 Earth Animal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47

Festival & Santa's Village . . . . . . . . . 84 A-list Awards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .42

PHOTOGRAPHY

Best of the Gold Coast

Bob Capazzo Photography . . . . . . . . . 86

Online Store . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48 Fairfield County's Community Foundation Giving Day . . . . . . . . . . .45 Greenwich Historical Society Antiquarius . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 84 Greenwich Restaurant Week . . . . . . . . 76 Light a Fire 2019 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .77

Portraits, Inc . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

REAL ESTATE Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices . . . .35 Douglas Elliman Real Estate/ Jeannete Floto . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49 William Raveis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

FASHION

959THEFOX.COM

Mitchells . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2, 3

MISCELLANEOUS

Roundabout . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

Big Picture . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 86

Soleil Toile . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .27

Westy Self Storage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2019 WESTPORT

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calendar

NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2019

by joey macari

The Wilton Historical Society will be celebrating its 34th annual American Artisan Show. The event draws more than thirty American artisans of contemporary and traditional furnishings, jewelry, leather goods, photography and more. Proceeds benefit WHS educational programs. More at wiltonhistorical.org.

SAT. 9 TROMBONE SHORTY

Light the Way THURSDAY, DECEMBER 5 Moffly Media’s 12th annual Light a Fire event celebrates local individuals and organizations who show selfless dedication to the community. Meet the honorees and stay for the awards presentation, with actor James Naughton serving as emcee, at Westport Country Playhouse. Tickets at lightafireawards.com.

NOVEMBER FRI. 1 KEN JEONG

Comedian Ken Jeong, famous for his scenestealing roles in The Hangover and Crazy Rich Asians, will perform stand-up at the Ridgefield Playhouse.

Jeong, who just came off a successful Netflix comic special this year, takes the stage at 8 p.m. Tickets start at $110. For more info, visit ridgefieldplayhouse.org.

SUN. 3 PETE HOLMES

The 12th annual Stand up for Homes with Hope

will take place at the Quick Center for the Performing Arts at Fairfield University.

The event, which raises money for the Westportbased organization dedicated to ending homelessness in Fairfield County, will feature a performance by comedian Pete Holmes. For tickets and sponsorship info, visit hwhct.org.

MON. 4 ELIZABETH STROUT

The Westport Library will host Pulitzer Prize– winner and New York Times best-selling author Elizabeth Strout, in a talk about her new novel, Olive, Again. From 7 to 8 p.m., she will be

joined by writer Nina Sankovitch in the Trefz Forum to discuss the character Olive Kitteridge and her vast collection of works. Register at westportlibrary.org.

TUES. 5 – SAT. 23 THEATER

Experience Molière’s superb comedy Don Juan in a way you’ve never seen before at the Westport Country Playhouse. This world premiere translation and adaptation by Brendan Pelsue tells the story of a womanizing anti-hero on a scandalous quest in Seville. For tickets and show times, visit westportplayhouse.org. westportmag.com

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Head to The Klein for the Anti-Defamation League’s (ADL) Voices: A Show of Unity, headlined by Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue, hosted by Paul Shaffer.

Tickets at adlvoices.org.

SAT. 9 HARVESTFEST

The Domestic Violence Crisis Center’s annual HarvestFest takes place at the Fairfield County Hunt Club. The event—a festive community gathering filled with hors d’oeuvres, seasonal cocktails and live music—will donate event proceeds to the center for preventative awareness. Find tickets at dvccct.org.

THURS. 14 ART SPIEGELMAN

The Westport Library will welcome writer and artists Art Spiegelman for its Malloy Lecture in the Arts, 7 p.m.

Waitlist: cdaiglrorians@ westportlibrary.org.

FRI. 22 WINE TASTING

The Westport Sunrise Rotary annual wine-tasting gala Westport Uncorked takes place from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m.

The event, held at The Inn

at Longshore, is a must for wine enthusiasts and for those who have a refined palate for all things Westport.

Sample reds, Champagne and fine wines as well as cheese, crudité and hors d’oeuvres from curators and caterers. For tickets, go to westportsunriserotary.org.

FRI. 29 TRAIN SHOW

The much-anticipated Great Trains Holiday Show—a display of winding, festive trains and tiny towns at the Wilton Historical Society—opens the day after Thanksgiving. Admission for members is free; nonmember adults tickets, $10, and kids, $5. Don’t miss a visit from Santa on the 14th. For more info, visit wiltonhistorical.org.

DECEMBER SUN. 8 HOLIDAY HOUSE TOUR

Celebrate home for the holidays at the 33rd annual Holiday House Tour, brought to you by the Westport Museum for History and Culture. It takes place at historic houses and buildings. The self-guided tour is a step back in time to homes and places that have remained for centuries.

See list of participants at westporthistory.org.

SUN. 8 SARA SHEPARD

Head to Westport Library to hear best-selling author Sara Shepard (Pretty Little Liars) in a talk with writer Wendy Walker about Shepard’s new book, Reputation.

Noon-2 p.m. Register at westportlibrary.org W

MELANI LUST PHOTOGRAPHY

FRI.-SAT 8-9 ARTISAN SHOW

ELEISH VAN BREEMS | H O M E

Furniture • Antiques • Lighting • Pillows • Tabletop • Accessories

EV B HOM E 9 9 F r an k l i n Street | E V B D ESIGN 22 R ailro ad Place | Westp o rt, Co nnecticut | e vba nt ique s.c om