Westport, CT May 2023

Shonda Rhimes and the Women of Westport

EDUCATION

CONVERSATIONS ABOUT WOMEN’S HEALTH

ARTS + CULTURE MOTHER’S DAY

50 YEARS OF FINE ARTS DOWNTOWN

Every Woman, Everywhere

Congratulations women of Westport and Weston!

To every woman who lives here, we admire and appreciate you. You’re part of what makes our town buzz with energy and intelligence. You may be our lawyer or our dry cleaner, the woman who makes our kids’ beloved deli sandwiches, or the woman whose paintings grace our living room walls. We rely on you. We need you.

But we may not know all of you. Which is why we threw out the question last month: who is your Woman of Westport?

We received thousands of nominations for incredible individuals; the challenge of whittling them down was a feat for our voting committee. We hope you love the results as much as we do!

Such as our cover woman, hitmaker Shonda Rhimes. She’s not only a neighbor but the powerhouse behind some of this century's best shows and strongest female characters. (Grey’s Anatomy, anyone?)

Being a woman is tricky business, health-wise. We’ve only recently begun to speak up and say, “Okay, but…”. Helping lead the charge and explaining our medical conundrums is Dr. Shieva Gofrany, aka Big Love Fierce Juju.

This is a similar message to what Women Leading the Way to Wellness is sending: know your body and take care of yourself - your family needs you!

And in exchange, how best can our families show women their appreciation? Mother’s Day! We’ve included a feature on activities you can do with mom on this day. Oh - and it’s the 50th year of Westport’s Fine Arts Festival! Surely there’s something wonderful for her there? Or maybe stroll the street with her, simply enjoying a lovely afternoon surrounded by art and community.

Happy May!

May 2023

PUBLISHER

Marisa MacLean | marisa.maclean@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Robin Moyer Chung | robin.chung@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Meredith Guinness, Anna Barnes, Caroline C. Barney, Alex Franklin, Robin Moyer Chung

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

John Videler, Alexandra Szebenyik Photography, Maya Porrino

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry

CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore

DIRECTOR OF SOCIAL MEDIA Mindy Hargesheimer

ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor

OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson

WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell

AD DESIGNER Mary Albers

LAYOUT DESIGNER Eva Tucker

MARISA MACLEAN, PUBLISHER @WESTPORTLIFESTYLE

N o w o f f e r i n g a n o n l i n e b r i d a l & b a b y r e g i s t r y !

G e t r e a d y f o r y o u r b i g m o m e n t s w i t h T h e P o s t .

w w w . t h e p o s t c t . c o m

Angelically Arranged designs sustainably organized spaces for the modern family.

city scene

Where neighbors can see and be seen.

1: Rach’s Hope 4th Annual PJ Gala at FTC. Ellie, Lisa, and Alan Doran. 2: Foti Koskinas, Jen Tooker with Rach’s Hope co-founders Lisa and Alan Doran. 3: Tim Ellis, lead guitarist for Ellis Island Band. 4: Kristen Lincoln, Ryan Brown, Hannah Devine, Naveena Ashok, Rob Lincoln, Ellie Doran 5: Alan Doran with MC Brian Jersey. 6: Elaine Daignault, Dylan Curran, Stacie Curran, Gately Ross Swearingen 7: AMG Catering.

Photography by John Videler

1: 3rd Annual Fashionably Westport at Westport Library. Jen Berniker, Robin Moyer Chung, Marisa MacLean. 2: Zac Mathias wearing WEST. Hair by Salon dada. 3: Enjoying the show! 4: Lauren Schwartz of Brochu Walker and Andrea Moore. 5: Andrew Colabella wearing Marine Layer. 6: Monique Hodges wearing unsubscribed clothing and Middlemarch jewelry. Hair by Salon dada. 7: Mary Dobson wearing Brochu Walker. Hair by blow dry.

Photography by John Videler

Want to be seen in the magazine? Tag your Instagram photos

1: Details from Fashionably Westport. 2: A beautiful sleeve. 3: Skirts and shoes. 4: Party selfie. 5: Musician Lamboginny. 6: Skirts shined everywhere. 7: Benjamin Lagasse of Salon dada.

with @westportlifestyle

Photography by Maya Porrino

RESORT LIVING

A round-up of exciting news from local businesses.

Coffee of Grace and The Granola Bar

TGB Hospitality Group has partnered with Coffee of Grace. The group has teamed up with the Black woman-owned coffee brand to create two signature blends, with Nobu Restaurants being the only other group to ever offer a Coffee of Grace custom blend. The coffee is served at The Granola Bars in Fairfield, Greenwich, Stamford and Westport, CT and Rye, NY as well as Old Mill Grocery & Deli. All locations will also sell other Coffee of Grace blends by the bag.

Photography Coffee of Grace

Doggos

Doggos Inc. began in 2017 as a dog-walking service for family and friends, then quickly expanded to providing premium grooming, walking, boarding, and sitting services to families all over NY and CT.  Doggos Inc. provides exceptional experiences to dogs which include 5Ks, swims, and hikes. Owners Dori and Matthew work with local shelters including Paws Crossed, where they adopted their rescue, Molly. Doggos Inc. custom gear and accessories are available at their events and through their website.  DoggosInc.com

7th Annual Dog Festival

We expect 3,000 people and over 1,000 dogs at the best Dog Festival in the State. Come on out for a great day in the park with family and friends!

Obstacle Course, Fun Competitions, Police K9 Presentations, Demonstrations, Adoptables, Vendors, Food Trucks, Face Painting, Caricature Artist, Photo Board, Dog Licensing and more...  Fun for the whole family, including people.  Bring your dog. $10 a person, $30 per family of 4.

• Winslow Park

• Sunday, May 21, 10 a.m.

Gather ‘Round the Table 2023

Join us for Homes with Hope’s Gather ‘Round the Table luncheon to benefit Project Return. Exquisite table designs will be created and donated by local designers. Guests will have a chance to win these one-of-a-kind tablescapes during the event.

Project Return will provide a longer-term housing solution and essential services to homeless women in a safe and caring environment.

• Wednesday, May 24

• 11:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.

• Shorehaven Golf Club, Norwalk

• Tickets: hwhct.org/gatherround2023

La Lana Lighting

Westport-based interior designer Jennifer Fridland recently launched La Lana Lighting, a hand-knit lighting company, with the creation of The Giant Chunky Knit Lighting Pendant, customizable in merino wool yarn colors and metal finishes. “Imagining and creating this

pendant came about as I was trying to solve lighting and acoustical challenges in an aesthetically beautiful and modern way.”  Each is hand-knit by the designer, as a unique piece of functional art. UL-Certified. lalanalighting.com

@la.lana.lighting

Wedding Dress Deep Dive: Edwardian Gown

In connection with our exhibition, I Thee Wed: Bridal fashion from the Collection, take a closer look at one of our beautiful wedding dresses. Learn the history of the dress, its structure, and popular styles of the time. Travel to the past as we recreate what this early 20th-century dress would have looked like on a wedding day. Register at WestportHistory. org/programs

• Westport Museum for History and Culture

• Thursday, May 11th, 6:30-7:30 p.m.

Photography Colleen Clear Photography

Westport Woman's Club Annual Art Show

Curated by Westport Artist Miggs Burroughs, the show features local artists whose work is available to purchase. Participating artists donate a portion of their sales to fund the club's community grants to nonprofit organizations in Fairfield County and need based scholarships for Staples H.S. seniors. Admission to the Art Show is free and open to the public. WestportWomansClub.org

• Opening Reception Friday, May 5, 5 p.m.-7 p.m.

• Saturday and Sunday, May 6 and 7, 2 p.m.-5 p.m.

Painting by Susan Fehlinger

CELEBRATING WOMEN

Congrats to all the women honored in this issue and cheers to our fellow female realtors, clients, colleagues and team members!

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

Will my daughters have it easier?

Our team believes that it’s more important than ever for all investors to participate in the financial decisions that impact their lives. We’ve found that many of our women clients leave those decisions to their partners and don’t take an active role now, or plan for the future. We are committed to reversing this trend. In our work together, we want to be sure you know where you stand today, and feel confident about the decisions we help you make for tomorrow. Empowered women empower us all.

Kristin Bloom Senior Vice President–Wealth Management Financial Advisor 203-291-1089

kristin.bloom@ubs.com

Charles McCool

Senior Vice President–Wealth Management Financial Advisor

203-291-1090

charles.mccool@ubs.com

Robyn Barger Financial Advisor

203-291-1093

robyn.barger@ubs.com

advisors.ubs.com/edgewater

Dean H. Gaugler, CFP ® Senior Vice President–Wealth Management Financial Advisor

203-602-6934

dean.gaugler@ubs.com

Kevin Porter, CFP ® Senior Vice President–Wealth Management Financial Advisor

203-291-1017

kevin.porter@ubs.com

Gifts for

Some great local ways to spoil Mom on Mother’s Day

ARTICLE BY ANNA BARNES

01 For a mom on the go, make sure she can treat herself to a nice coffee (and beyond) with a Granola Bar gift card. Moms can do it all, but caffeine helps. TheGranolaBar.com // 02 If she loves a blowout, she’ll adore a membership to blow dry. Happy hair, happy mom. BlowDrySouthport.com // 03 Fresh flowers are lovely, but fresh flowers weekly are simply the best. Gift her a floral subscription. BlossomStem.com // 04 Let her sleep in and surprise her with breakfast in bed from Pop Up Bagels. Schedule a pickup and win the morning. PopUpBagels.com // 05 Mom is definitely not cooking on Mother’s Day so treat her to an Italian-inspired evening at Casa Me. CasaMeCafé.com // 06 Customize a necklace with the initials of all her favorites with the 14k Asymmetrical Two Initials Necklace. MiddleMarch.Store

07 Gift her the perfect spring and summer hat, sure to compliment any outfit. From Janessa Leone, the Sherman Hat. PenfieldCollective.com // 08 Moms are sweet, so gift her the sweetest of treats of handcrafted chocolates and more. BridgewaterChocolate.com // 09 Add a bit of sunshine to her mornings (or some well-deserved downtime) with this bright and cozy robe. KerriRosenthal.com // 10 If she’s a wine lover, join the wine club at The Fine Wine Company. A gift sure to bring a lot of “cheers!” TheFineWineCompanyOfWestport. com // 11 Give the gift that all moms want: more “me” time! Book her some meditation and yoga classes for some much-deserved zen. PauseAndPurpose.com // 12 Jewelry is never a bad idea, so pick out a piece as unique as she is and don’t forget the sparkles. Pictured here is the Ippolita Carnevale Ring from Lux Bond & Green. LBGreen.com

Photo: Emily Vartanian-Tuttle

Reach out to start the conversation about your real estate goals today.

May is Skin Cancer Awareness Month!

Skin cancer is America’s most common cancer. Fortunately, skin cancer is one of the most preventable cancers. Not every freckle or mole is harmless. Some freckles are precancerous and a melanoma, most serious type of skin cancer, can hide among regular moles and freckles. Get your skin checked this month!

50 Years of Fine Arts

Westport Fine Arts Festival Celebrates Its Half Century Mark

ARTICLE BY MEREDITH GUINNESS

Ask why Westport is, was, and will always be a mecca for art and you’ll get a number of worthy answers.

But Sue Brown Gordon’s answer may be the most unusual – and inspiring.

“It’s the water. It’s a water town,” says the Artists’ Director of the Westport Fine Arts Festival, celebrating its 50th year in 2023. “Water towns have movement. They have excitement. They have transitions.

“That beauty and that perpetual energy attracts artists.”

Which will certainly be true this Memorial Day Weekend when 125 of the nation’s top working artists will converge on downtown exhibiting art of all kinds

– from painting and photography to music, dance and an immersive installation by two local luminaries.

This year’s festival, expected to draw 10,000 aficionados over two days, will feature a full slate of performances and demonstrations, food vendors, a full bar and expanded children’s activities, said Event Director Jill Dunn of the Westport Downtown Association.

“We want to create a place people want to go to see things, taste things, feel things, create art and go home covered with paint, if that’s what they want to do,” she laughs.

Long a highlight of the festival calendar for both collectors and residents from New England, the tri-state

WDTA organizers taking a break: Jill Dunn, Emma Rojas, Sue Brown Gordon.

Mixed media artist Jorge Caligiuri

region and beyond, the fre e, juried event drew more than 250 entries this year. Those chosen will exhibit painting, photography, sculpture, fiber, printmaking, mixed media, glass, ceramics, jewelry, wood and graphics.

“These are the best,” Sue noted. “The A-listers.”

Among the standouts will be returning 2022 photography winner Andrew Sovjani and Best in Show winner Dean DiMarzo. Standing tall – about 19 feet high by 30 feet wide – will be a massive art installation by Emily Teall and Lily Morgan, both of whom have worked and exhibited at The Norwalk Art Space. Lily is one of the current resident artists and Emily was part of the Class of 2021-22.

The show is special because town art lovers and artists form a symbiotic relationship that grows naturally from the festival. The artists, who enjoy the camaraderie of a lovely dinner together on Saturday night, return because

they feel appreciated, Sue, an artist herself, believes.

As the organizer for more than a dozen art festivals across the region, she’s always tickled when people unaware of her affiliation recommend the Westport festival to her as a great place to exhibit her jewelry and mixed media creations.

“It’s definitely a community,” she says. “People decorate their homes from this show. I’ll go into homes in Westport and see them feathering their nests with treasures acquired from the festival and making relationships with the artists. They end up collectors for life.”

The 50th annual Westport Fine Arts Festival runs downtown on May 27 & 28, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Much of the action, including music, food vendors and a children’s area, will take place in the Elm Street parking lot. Admission is free.  For more information on exhibiting artists, the performance schedule and food and drink vendors, visit westportdowntown.com/fine-arts-festival.

“It’s definitely a community. People decorate their homes from this show. I’ll go into homes in Westport and see them feathering their nests with treasures acquired from the festival and making relationships with the artists. They end up collectors for life.”

Choose YOU!

WOMEN LEADING THE WAY TO WELLNESS WANTS WOMAN TO PUT THEMSELVES FIRST.

ARTICLE BY CAROLINE C. BARNEY | PHOTOGRAPHY BY LAURA ST. JOHN

What if reading this article could save a life?

What if a phone call to a friend changed the course of their health?

What if a luncheon is the difference between stage zero and stage IV cancer?

Would you read this article, call a friend or go to the luncheon?

Seem simple, right? But it’s not always so easy.

“We are mothers, business owners, employees, siblings, and friends and if anyone in our circle (including a pet) needs our help we are there. We often push everything else to the side to nurture and help in any way that we can, most often putting ourselves last when it comes to taking care of our own health and wellbeing,” says Robin Selden, Tri-Chair of Women Leading

BACK

2019 Committee Photo - Kelly Thomas, Heather Carey , Aubrey Keely, Kim Pugh, Flavia Callari, Lucinda Cross, Maureen Newlove, Kitt Shapiro, Robin Selden, Robyn Whittingham

the Way to Wellness (WLWW). “We decided we were going to change that by reminding and empowering women to take better care of themselves and to ‘Choose You’.”

It was 2013 that Robin and a handful of friends made this decision and launched WLWW. The mission is straightforward: Choose YOU. Encourage each other, and every woman, to put their health first.

By prioritizing our health, we give each other bigger, fuller, longer lives. A chance to love ourselves, our friends, and our families with more because we choose to have agency over our wellness. Prevention and early detection of cancer start with doing the checklist (i.e., doctor appointments, screenings, etc.) and understanding how health plays a critical role.

“If even one woman hears our message and goes for a screening that catches cancer, then we’ve done our job,” Robin continues.

“For us, it’s not about numbers and statistics, it’s about real names,” adds Maureen Newlove, Tri-Chair of WLWW. “No one wants to walk out of an appointment and kick themselves for not going to a screening and we aren’t going to stand by and let that happen.”

The message is clear. Do the checklist. Prioritize your health.

“By choosing you, putting yourself in front, we are actually giving to our families. I am choosing me FOR my family,” Maureen shares.

Robin and Maureen are joined by Kitt Shapiro as Tri-Chairs for WLWW with their flagship event being a yearly luncheon held with the American Cancer Society (ACS). The event has gained momentum over the past 10 years; an afternoon bursting at the seams with information, encouragement, and messages of empowerment and sisterhood.

Lunch at the Marriott.

The event raises money for CT-based cancer support services, such as drivers, wig programs, and ACS Hope Lodges, a-home-away-from-home for people with cancer and their caregivers when cancer treatment is far away. It also provides funds for local female-focused research and researchers.

Best said by Maureen, “we were the little engine that could….but now are ready to blow things up this year!”

So, what do you think? You’ve read the article now. You’ve heard the rallying cry. Is there an appointment or screening you have been putting off?

Because today is the day to do it. Don’t wait. We all need you to be healthy. You matter to us.

Is there a friend who needs encouragement to make her appointments? Call her!

What to join the luncheon? WLWW would love to have you.

This year the event will be held on May 11th with Keynote speakers Shieva Ghofrany, MD and Journalist and Sports Commentator, Lindsay Czarniak. In addition, this year’s honoree is Seema Bakhru, MD - Chair of Radiology (and the first woman to hold this position) for Norwalk and Danbury Hospitals.

AcsWomenandWellness.com

“If even one woman hears our message and goes for a screening that catches cancer, then we’ve done our job.”

- Robin Selden

Kelly Thomas, Kelsey McGettigan, Cari Shapiro, Kitt Shapiro, Robin Selden, Amy Katz, Maureen Newlove, Robyn Whittingham, Shantana Maye.

2023 WOMEN OF WESTPORT

ARTICLE BY ROBIN MOYER CHUNG

The Women of Westport are those women we’d like our children to emulate, who are making our town as great as it is, and who we’d like to see living here for the next one, two, three hundred years.

This year, we asked YOU to nominate these women!

First, you all have great taste.

Second, your list of nominees is impressive in size, scope, and diversity. You wrote about women of all ages and backgrounds, doing incredible and

interesting things. Each deserves recognition for making our community outstanding.

Every nomination was thoughtful and well-considered (and would make that woman’s day if you told her what you wrote.)

We tasked - challenged, rather - our voting committee with narrowing down the nominations.

Now, we’re delighted to introduce you to our 2023 Women of Westport!

Monique Hodges

Founder & CEO, Gebanah Vice President, Westport Downtown Association

WLM: YOU RECENTLY FOUNDED GEBANAH, A CONSULTING SERVICE TO DEVELOP WORKPLACE CULTURE THROUGH LOCAL PHILANTHROPY. ARE THERE ANY SPECIFIC EXPERIENCES YOU’VE HAD OR WITNESSED WHICH PROMPTED YOU TO DO THIS?

MH: “An MIT Sloan Management Review showed that toxic culture is the #1 reason employees leave companies. I created Gebanah - meaning ‘to give’ - because in today’s world, a positive workplace culture is crucial to the stability of a successful business.

“My years of serving on the boards of two nonprofit organizations and becoming the President and CEO of one in Westport illustrated to me that the needs of nonprofits are expansive and often seem endless. I saw an opportunity to broaden my service.”

WLM: YOU’RE THE VICE PRESIDENT OF THE WESTPORT DOWNTOWN ASSOCIATION (WDA) AND A PAST PRESIDENT OF THE WESTPORT YOUNG WOMAN’S LEAGUE (WYWL). WHAT DREW YOU TO THESE ORGANIZATIONS?

MH: ”Joining the WYWL in 2016 gave me a focus greater than myself and my work. I was drawn to their dedication to volunteering and enjoyed being a part of executing fundraising events that raised money for our grants program, which gives annually to nonprofits throughout the county.

“My nomination to the WDA came as I managed the governance and business affairs as President & CEO of the WYWL. It was of particular interest for me to join the WDA, which was in the process of becoming a nonprofit, in amplifying their mission of being an advocate for local businesses and enhancing our community’s downtown experience.”

WLM: WHAT ARE THREE THINGS YOU VALUE, OTHER THAN FRIENDS AND FAMILY?

MH: “Being authentic, acting with integrity, and having compassion.” CONTINUED >

Photo: Alexandra Szebenyik Photography

Runa Knapp

Co-Founder and Chief Business Development Officer Board Member of B Local Connecticut.

&

Jasmine Silver

Co-Founder and Chief Operating Officer Board member of Sunrise Association.

FOUNDHER IS HELPING WOMEN AND MOTHERS RETURN TO THE WORKFORCE AFTER A CAREER BREAK. IT’S ALSO B-CORP CERTIFIED. WHY IS THAT AN IMPORTANT DESIGNATION FOR YOUR EMPLOYERS TO BE AWARE OF?

R&J: “FoundHer is the only female-led B-Corp certified full-service recruiting agency in the country. We want our employers - and candidates - to know that our services aim to solve a social issue through our work serving an underserved population of candidates, and to combat the discrimination that mothers often face when returning to the workforce after a career break.

“As a purpose-driven business, we also seek out diverse and/or women-owned small businesses for our own vendor needs such as legal, marketing, PR, etc.”

WHAT ARE THE MOST COMMON MISTAKES WOMEN MAKE WHEN REACHING OUT TO EMPLOYERS AFTER BEING A STAY-AT-HOME PARENT?

R&J: “Discussing salary or flexibility in the first meeting, especially before assessing whether the job is a fit on either side.

“Presenting an employer an outdated resumé. Resumés should have work history gaps filled in with relevant volunteer or consulting arrangements and technical skills and/or courses completed during the gap period.

“Entering the workforce too quickly: many of our clients were executives who have since chosen ‘purpose over profit’ after a career break. They’ve had time to evaluate what makes them happy, what works with their schedule, and what kind of work is fulfilling.

“Re-entering the workforce alone. Consult with former colleagues, friends, and consultants like us who have a pulse on the current job market.”

Photo: Tiffani Dijounas Photography

WLM: YOU’VE HELPED MANY GRATEFUL FAMILIES MANAGE THE PROBLEMATIC BEHAVIOR OF LOVED ONES, PRIMARILY EATING DISORDERS. AS THE MOTHER OF A YOUNG CHILD, WHAT CAN YOU DO TO HELP “PREVENT” DISORDERS?

EA: “Be mindful of the way you talk about your own body and other people’s bodies.

“Be mindful of your language around food. It is best to be neutral. No food is ‘good’ or ‘bad.’

“Be careful with compliments and comments about bodies. They can negatively impact body image by making people believe they need to be a certain size to receive praise. Plus, someone’s body is the least interesting thing about them, so let’s take the focus off that and put it on what’s really important like who they actually are and what makes them, THEM.

“Do not discuss dieting with your child even if it is something you are pursuing for your own health goals.

“Be mindful of what a healthy relationship around exercise looks like. Make sure your child knows that movement is intended to add value to your life, improve mood, increase stress tolerance, not about how thin you need to be.”

WLM: WHAT ARE THREE THINGS YOU VALUE, BESIDES FRIENDS AND FAMILY?

EA: “I value the tough times, the challenges and obstacles because they always teach us what we are capable of. I value self acceptance - loving yourself for who you are. I value honesty. Keeping secrets does not work- being honest is hard, but it works.

“I value hard work. My practice has shown me that hard work and determination pay off and is immensely satisfying.

“I value laughter. We have to laugh - it IS the best medicine, especially in the hardest of times.”

Licensed Clinical Social Worker  Founder & Clinical Director of North Star Wellness www.northstarwellness.care

Photo: Alexandra Szebenyik Photography

Sara Deren

Founder & CEO of Experience Camps experiencecamps.org

WLM: EXPERIENCE CAMPS IS A NATIONAL NON-PROFIT THAT PROVIDES FREE OVERNIGHT SUMMER CAMPS FOR CHILDREN GRIEVING THE DEATH OF A FAMILY MEMBER. WHAT IS THE GREATEST CHALLENGE OF BRINGING TOGETHER CHILDREN FROM SUCH AN ENORMOUS RANGE OF CULTURES AND BACKGROUNDS?

SD: “There is always an initial challenge in bringing together kids who come from different life situations. But all of our campers share something very specific - they are grieving the death of a family member. They quickly find connections through their stories and feelings, which makes their differences less important.

“We also work hard to recruit volunteers that mirror our camper demographics, and train our staff to recognize and challenge their own biases, so that we can provide a space that values and protects each and every person.”

WLM: WHAT IS THE BEST THING TO SAY TO A CHILD WHEN SOMEONE CLOSE TO THEM HAS DIED?

SD: “I’ll start with a few things NOT to say. Don’t say ‘they’re in a better place now’, or ‘be strong for your mom or dad,’ or anything that starts with the words, ‘at least…’. Instead, tell them, ‘I’m here for you,’ and then show them you mean it. Take them out for ice cream. Show up at their basketball games. Remember their birthday and the anniversary of the death and tell them you’re thinking of them on those days. Ask them if they’d like to hear stories about the person who died. Keep checking in - their grief will change over time but it won’t go away.”

Jen Berniker

Founder/Editor, Designport Freelance Writer & Producer Volunteer, Center for Family Justice SES & BMS PTA

WLM: YOU STARTED DESIGNPORT SO PEOPLE CAN SHARE DESIGN IDEAS AND, FORTUITOUSLY, GIVE US A CHANCE TO PEEK INTO PEOPLE’S INTERESTING SPACES. BUT BEFORE THAT, YOU PRODUCED TV SERIES AND DOCUMENTARIES. WHAT WAS ONE OF YOUR FAVORITE PROJECTS?

JB: “My favorite project was, not surprisingly, producing an HGTV series called ‘Small Space, Big Style.’ After a decade of working on heavier subjects, like an hour for PBS on Anti-Semitism, shot in the Middle East, and an hour on literal garbage shot at Fresh Kills landfill, when I realized I could get paid to seek out cool homes and interview their interesting owners, I was sold. I even got to go to Tokyo and shoot some tiny houses.”

WLM: IF YOU WERE DOING A DOCU-SERIES ABOUT ANYONE OR ANYTHING IN WESTPORT, WHAT WOULD IT BE?

JB: “I’d be interested in looking at the way many of us

(myself included) are raising our kids: the year-round sports, constant activities, tutors, and the impact it has on kids and parents alike. What is the cost and benefit in the long run? I’d interview tons of kids and ask them what they are doing when they feel the happiest and least stressed.”

WLM: HOW DO YOU CHOOSE WHICH PHILANTHROPIES TO SUPPORT?

JB: “There are so many great causes out there, for my husband and me it comes down to personal connection. Having lost family members and friends to ALS, we understand the need to find a cure and help with patient care.

WLM: WHAT ARE THREE THINGS YOU VALUE, OTHER THAN FRIENDS AND FAMILY?

JB: “Travel. Humor. And community. Thank you for helping build that here!”

Photo: Maya Porrino

Alyson Luck

Recently, Director at One River School of Art

Stay at Home Mom

WLM: AS A MUSEUM EDUCATOR, WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE MUSEUM?

AL: “I loved working at The Jewish Museum on the Upper East Side. The Museum is in the Warburg Mansion, you are surrounded by inspiring exhibitions in a historic environment. The art on view is always unexpected, and there is a captivating story behind each piece on view.”

WLM: YOU RECEIVED A DIAGNOSIS OF PANCREATIC CANCER THIS PAST SUMMER. HOW DID THE COMMUNITY RALLY WHEN THEY LEARNED?

AL: “When I found out this past July, I was shocked. I wasn’t feeling well for months but Pancreatic Cancer is not typical at age 40, even being BRCA Positive. By the time I was diagnosed, I was Stage 4. It had spread to my liver and my abdomen. Two weeks later I had a massive stroke due to blood clots from Pancreatic Cancer.

“When I got out of the hospital 10 days later, I learned that the word had spread in the community. My wonderful friend set up a meal train for our family and I couldn’t believe it. We had hundreds of people delivering food, gifts, donations, and words of support. Friends, family, past teachers and Coleytown parents watched my two young kids - which helped immensely. Some community members offered their business services pro bono. My college friends started LUCK bracelets to support BRCA research. My friends and family went above and beyond in every way. I found it difficult to complain about what I was going through because I had an incredible support system.”

WHAT ARE THREE THINGS YOU VALUE, OTHER THAN FRIENDS AND FAMILY?

AL: “ 1. Honesty, 2. Humor, 3. Scans.”

Photo: Alexandra Szebenyik Photography

Sonya Harris-Jagenberg

Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Co-Chair, A Better Chance Westport Board Member, Urban Impact Bridgeport Tutor, Kid Power

WLM: AS A BLACK WOMAN FROM NEBRASKA WHOSE HUSBAND IS EUROPEAN, THIS PUTS YOU IN A UNIQUE POSITION TO APPRECIATE AND APPLAUD CULTURAL DIFFERENCES. WHAT DO YOU THINK WE, BOTH COLLECTIVELY AND AS INDIVIDUALS, CAN DO BETTER TO BE MORE INCLUSIVE?

SHJ: “Everyone should be more accepting of individuals who are different from our ethnicity and background, who have different beliefs. It’s important to acknowledge and address systemic inequalities and biases that prevent certain groups from having equal access to opportunities and resources. Both in my professional life and social circles, I’ve noticed that people are often too concerned about others’ negative perceptions when they lack knowledge. We’re all learning, so don’t be afraid to ask questions!”

WLM: WHY DO YOU CHOOSE TO WORK WITH KIDS WHO LIVE IN UNDERSERVED AREAS?

SHJ: “I’m a mother and, even if a child isn’t mine, I still want the best for them. It’s important to me to help as many kids as I can by connecting them to great opportunities. In my experience, all children have similar needs - to be loved, listened to, appreciated, and supported.”

WLM: AS THE DEI CO-CHAIR FOR A BETTER CHANCE, HOW HAVE YOU SEEN THE CONCEPTS AND TEACHING DIVERSITY, EQUITY AND INCLUSION CHANGE OVER THE YEARS?

SHJ: “My job didn’t exist two and a half years ago. That in itself is progress. Westport ABC has been a leader in Fairfield County ABC houses by implementing strategic DEI changes and making ABC a part of the community.

“I’m working to shift people’s lenses by encouraging open and honest conversations. I believe that by focusing on people’s hearts and having an open mind, we can make positive changes.”

Photo: Jerri Graham

WLM: YOU STARTED AAPI WESTPORT, WITH WOMAN OF WESTPORT 2020 ROSIE JON, IN RESPONSE TO HATE CRIMES AGAINST ASIANS. PLEASE SHARE WHY YOU STARTED THIS ORGANIZATION AND WHAT YOU HOPE TO ACCOMPLISH.

P&S: “We started AAPI Westport in March 2021 following a town-wide Stop Asian Hate rally to respond to the significant rise in hate crimes against Asians. Our mission is to foster a sense of belonging within our community, as well as increase AAPI visibility and awareness throughout Westport and beyond.”

WLM: HOW DO YOU MEASURE THE SUCCESS OF AAPI WESTPORT?

P&S: “We measure our success by the response and feedback from our community members.  When our programming resonates and creates connections for people, especially those who have historically felt unseen in our town, that is how we know the work we are doing is worth it. We are especially looking forward to sharing our work during AAPI Heritage Month each May.”

WLM: WHERE DO YOU SEE AAPI WESTPORT IN FIVE YEARS?

P&S: “We hope to have more community members actively involved in the planning and execution of our events and programs. We see us continuing to engage and educate the larger community by sharing our stories and letting our voices be heard.”

WLM: WHAT ARE THREE THINGS YOU VALUE, OTHER THAN FRIENDS AND FAMILY?

SC: “I value personal health, physical and mental, the sustainability of our planet, and kindness and empathy in our communities.

PK: “I value relating to and connecting to others as humans, education/learning and treating others with respect and grace. And, if I’m allowed a fourthfinding joy and having fun!!! (or is that five?!) And Sarin agrees with this (these) too!!!”

Patra Kanchanagom & Sarin Cheung

Co-Founders, AAPI (Asian American Pacific Islander) Westport

Photo: Alexandra Szebenyik Photography

WLM: THROUGHOUT YOUR CAREER AS A CLINICAL THERAPIST, YOU’VE FOCUSED ON FAMILIES AND CHILDREN. WHY DID YOU CHOOSE THIS PROFESSION?

LR: “I saw a gap in treatment for this population and a huge opportunity to make a difference in life trajectories when we start earlier.

“There’s a wide-open developmental window from age 0-5, when we can foster coping skills more quickly than later. These kids don’t say, ‘I have a problem’ but sometimes their big behaviors scream, ‘I need help.’ Problems with self-control signal their coping skills are actually getting in their way.

“My positions as a clinician and clinical supervisor at Child First included serving as a child therapist to kids and foster parents in the foster care system.

“Foster kids suffer unexpected, unexplained losses that rock their worlds. Helping them trust and connect with a consistent, supportive, nurturing adult can reestablish their sense of security, let them make sense of their experiences, and write a new chapter in their story. It takes a lot of time and commitment from foster parents, something the system isn’t always set up to deliver.”

WLM: WHAT DO YOU THINK IS THE BEST ADVICE YOU GAVE YOUR OWN KIDS WHEN THEY WERE YOUNG?

LR: “My kids never wanted advice when they were young! I think every kid wants someone who can stop trying to fix everything and just go where they go. Follow their feelings.”

WLM: IF YOU COULD STAND IN FRONT OF EVERY CHILD IN OUR SCHOOLS AND TELL THEM ANYTHING, WHAT WOULD IT BE?

LR: “I’d rather have a moment with their parents. When something’s not right the first thing they do is blame themselves. I wish parents could see themselves the way we see them. Parents aren’t the problem, they’re the best solution we’ve got.”

Lynn Rider

LCSW, Early Childhood Mental Health Therapist

Photo: Alexandra Szebenyik Photography

Nicole Gerber

Secretary, Wakeman Town Farm (WTF) Executive Committee

Fundraising + Sponsorships Coordinator, WTF Committee

Board Member, Westport Downtown Association

Board Member, Unite the World with Africa Foundation

District 7 Representative, Westport Democratic Town Committee

Former Co-Director, AWARE: Assisting Women through Action Resources and Education

YOU’RE CURRENTLY WORKING WITH UNITE THE WORLD WITH AFRICA AND WAKEMAN TOWN FARM. WHAT DO YOU DO FOR EACH AND WHAT DREW YOU TO THESE ORGANIZATIONS?

NG: “I met Anne Wells (Unite founder) and within five minutes we were talking about Unite, her experiences in Tanzania, and how she was focused on empowering extraordinary-yet-impoverished and marginalized youth and women in Africa. Without hesitation, I offered to do a holiday Shop for Good event. The rest is history. I’m working on getting us an invitation to present our work at The United Nations.

“I started volunteering at WTF in the early days of the pandemic. I had just wrapped the successful and heart-wrenching metastatic breast cancer awareness and fundraising Portraits campaign in support of The Cancer Couch Foundation (WLM, May ’20).

“A friend of mine said the WTF Committee was looking for someone to help develop a sponsorship program and did I have any interest. I met with the team and I knew immediately that WTF was my new charity.

“We are all passionate about the Farm’s commitment to organic farming and its mission to educate our community about the importance of sustainability. I also appreciate how supportive the Committee is of my many fundraising ideas, including trying out new events such as EcoFest and Drinking with Chickens… and we have lambs and baby goats! What’s not to love?”

Photo:Jerri Graham

MEET YOUR NEIGHBOR, SHONDA RHIMES

One of Entertainment's Most Successful People Lives in Westport

ARTICLE BY ROBIN MOYER CHUNG PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF ST. JOHN

There may be a handful of Westporters who don’t know who Shonda Rhimes is. You may even be one of them. But not for much longer.

Her star, firmly affixed to the Hollywood universe, Venn-diagrammed itself to our celestial sphere a few years ago. Since then, it’s only gotten (impossibly) brighter.

Shonda is the writer/producer behind Grey’s Anatomy, Scandal, Inventing Anna, Bridgerton, and more. Her unexpected and diverse characters, including strong women and handsome men (we’ll get to that later), have made her a darling of the streaming industry (is that what we call TV now?)

Now, “darling” both belies and describes her. She’s an unapologetically successful and powerful woman with an easy friend-next-door approachability. You’d enjoy chatting with her at a dinner party and be surprised, but not that surprised, to learn she graced the Oscars in Carolina Herrera the night before.

You’ll see her in bookstores (her memoir Year of Yes and novel Queen Charlotte written with Julia Quinn) and in ad campaigns (spokesmodel for St. John) and, of course, around town.

WLM: YOU’RE THE NEW FACE OF ST. JOHN IN THEIR #OWNYOURPOWER CAMPAIGN. PAST “FACES” OF THE BRAND ARE GISELE BÜNDCHEN, ANGELINA JOLIE, KAREN ELSON. HOW DOES IT FEEL ADDING “MODEL” TO YOUR RESUMÉ?

SR: “I don’t think I knew I was following a bunch of supermodels. The brand has been good to me - with clothes of all sizes, and versatility. I love that they’re an American company,

and that they were female-founded. And I also love the fact that they are size inclusive. I wore St. John on the cover of Time (January 2022) and I think that’s why they wanted me.”

WLM: I AM SO ON BOARD WITH A GOOD PREQUEL. BRIDGERTON IS SPRINKLED WITH SO MANY GREAT “WHAT THE…?” CHARLOTTE MOMENTS. DID YOU KNOW YOU’D DO QUEEN CHARLOTTE ALL ALONG?

SR: “No, the idea came from watching the show as it came together. Golda, who plays Queen Charlotte, is fantastic, I was obsessed. I wanted her tone in there.”

WLM: ONE OF MY FAVORITE MOMENTS IN BRIDGERTON WAS IN ONE OF THE VERY FIRST SCENES. AT LADY DANBURY’S BALL, THE THREE INELEGANT FEATHERINGTON SISTERS ENTER AT THE SAME TIME AND GET STUCK IN THE DOORWAY. I LAUGHED OUT LOUD - WAS THAT YOUR IDEA?

SR: “No, it wasn't my idea. It was literally one of those physical things the director and the actors come up with in the moment. It's one of the funniest things I've ever seen.”

WLM: DO SHOWS ALWAYS COME OUT THE WAY YOU ENVISION THEM, OR DO THEY CHANGE AS YOU GO ALONG?

SR: “I’ll have an idea for dialogue or an idea for a scene and I have to tell someone to see if it feels right and authentic. I perform all of my scripts while I write them. It’s fun - I cry when I’m supposed to cry, I laugh when I’m supposed to laugh. Susan [Shonda’s assistant] must think I’m crazy”

WLM: YOU ALSO WROTE A MEMOIR, YEAR OF YES. HOW WAS THAT PROCESS?

SR: “I wanted to write a book that felt as open and honest as the characters in my show. Like, I couldn't gloss over things or make things feel fake; it had to be the stuff that I thought, and it was an amazing learning process for me. Writing a memoir is like you're writing your life and so you're thinking about what things mean and how they play out, and you get a new perspective.”

WLM: IN YEAR OF YES, YOU WROTE ABOUT A FRIEND WHO DECIDED YOU WERE HER PERSONAL WELLSPRING OF MONEY. HOW DO YOU DETERMINE WHO’S GENUINE AND WHO WANTS YOU FOR JOBS AND CASH?

SR: “That’s really hard. And I often say I might be bad at it. I always think people are coming into everything with the best of intentions. I'm in a space in my life, my career where everybody's nice. My friends and my sister are my sounding boards because people will be really nice to me and not realize my sister's my sister. And then they're really rude to her.”

WLM: YOU’LL SOON BE MOVING TO A NEW HOUSE ACROSS TOWN. THERE WAS A LOT OF BUZZ WHEN THIS HOUSE WAS BEING BUILT AND NOW THERE’S BUZZ ABOUT SHONDA RHIMES BUYING IT. WHAT DREW YOU TO IT?

SR: “You know what was interesting? I wasn't looking, I wasn't looking for another house. It didn't occur to me that I would ever want to live there with my three kids. Like, that's insane. But the more I went to see the house, the more I could see it. There's space to work, there's space for my guests. There’s space for the kids to have their own space, so it became possible.”

WLM: OTHER THAN THE BEACH AND THE SCHOOLS, WHAT DREW YOU TO WESTPORT?

SR: “You know, [Westport] hadn't been my top choice. I thought I was going to look in Bedford or something. But one of my friends who lives here told me to check it out. So I came down and immediately understood it as a place I definitely wanted to live. I grew up in a small town outside of Chicago. It has the exact same community feel and I want that for my kids.

“I've been to see every Staples musical for the past two years, and that place is amazing. I haven't seen a high school production that looked like that ever.”

WLM: THEY’RE AMAZING.

SR: “Oh, wait, can I say one more thing about the house that I bought?”

WLM: OF COURSE.

SR: “I was really excited that it was on Ashford and Simpson’s original property. And [the home’s

Shonda Rimes #OwnYourPower campaign for St. John.

original owner] was told that Chaka Khan recorded “I’m Every Woman” there. It was written there, too. And Maya Angelou went there to record the one album she did.”

WLM: I DIDN’T KNOW THAT! THANKS FOR SHARING! OKAY, QUESTION ABOUT GREY’S ANATOMY. I HAVE TO HEAR IT FROM YOU: MCDREAMY OR MCSTEAMY. WHO’S THE HOTTER ONE? YOU CAN ALSO ANSWER SIMON

BASSETT [BRIDGERTON]

SR: (Laughs) “Yeah. I don't know that I could say which one's hotter. I think character-wise, McDreamy was sort of perfect. But McSteamy had the furthest to go and really developed into a human versus this very shallow person when we started. His ability to change the character, I thought that was sexy.”

WLM: SPEAKING OF SIMON BASSETT, I WAS DISAPPOINTED TO NOT SEE HIM IN THE SECOND SEASON. HE’S DASHING.

SR: He and I talked about it - we finished what we wanted to do with that character. I mean, what was going to happen then? He was going to stand around in the background of somebody else's love story?

WLM: YES.

SR: ( Laughs)

WLM: IS THERE ANYTHING ELSE YOU’D LIKE TO SHARE?

SR: “Well, my parents moved here as well, and have the same thing to say about Westport that I do, which is that everyone we’ve met is incredibly welcoming, and incredibly friendly. You have the safety and comfort of a place that feels like it's full of community. I mean, I think that's the most important part.”

ShondaLand.com

>

Behind The Scenes of Shonda Rimes #OwnYourPower campaign for St. John.

TOP: Shonda at last May's BOOKED for the Evening at Westport Library (Photo: Photos by J.C. Martin)

BOTTOM: Shonda with Jay and Crystal Norris.

(Photo: Photos by J.C. Martin)

MIDDLE: Shonda with Harold and Bernicestine Bailey. (Photo: Photos by J.C. Martin)

Behind The Scenes of Shonda Rimes #OwnYourPower campaign for St. John.

Your car. Our care.

Your car is special. Whether it’s a rare Audi RS2 or a brand new BMW X3, when it comes to service, you want the best possible technical expertise and care. For nearly three decades, we’ve been serving discerning Fairfield County drivers looking for a dealership alternative.

Our factory-trained, award-winning staff will maintain your prized wheels with state-of-the-art diagnostic equipment, honest communication and service you can trust. Our goal is to get you back behind the wheel as quickly and efficiently as possible.

Conveniently located next to the Danbury Airport. Servicing Audi, BMW, VW, Mini, Mercedes and Porsche.

• All major and minor services

• Oil changes and tune-ups

• Tires and laser alignment

• Competitive parts pricing

• Performance upgrades

• Factory-trained technicians

• Factory diagnostic equipment

• Complimentary loaner cars

• Pick-up and drop-off available

• Air-cooled and Euro-spec experts

WEEKAPAUG INN

Rhode Trip

The Best of Rhode Island

The Weekapaug Inn is a stunning haven situated on the beautiful Rhode Island coast, offering a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Its serene atmosphere is designed to help guests forget about stress, and every aspect of their stay is carefully orchestrated to ensure they make the most of their brief respite.

Upon arriving at the Forbes Five-Star Weekapaug Inn, guests are greeted by a beautiful lounge with breathtaking water views. The staff is renowned for their exceptional service and attention to detail, ensuring guests feel welcome and comfortable from the moment they arrive.  It’s no wonder why this destination was named the #1 hotel in the Northeast in Conde Nast Travelers’ most recent Readers’ Choice survey.

The Weekapaug Inn is an idyllic location for hosting magical weddings, with a variety of inspired venues available to choose from. The sprawling grounds offer an elegant tent, while the Inn itself provides a range of sophisticated spaces. The MeetingHouse, in particular, is a masterpiece of an event space with a beautiful stone fireplace, a cathedral ceiling and dramatic floor-to-ceiling retractable windows that face the pond and the ocean beyond.  Property buyouts can

be accommodated for destination wedding events, ensuring that couples can enjoy the entire property with their loved ones.

The culinary experience at the Weekapaug Inn is one to savor. The chefs, including Executive Chef Andrew Brooks, have fully mastered the perfect flavors of Rhode Island and the Atlantic Coast, incorporating locally sourced ingredients from farmers and fishermen. Guests can indulge in delicious meals while admiring the stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

The Weekapaug Inn offers a wide range of activities for guests to enjoy, making it the perfect choice for those seeking adventure or relaxation. The Inn’s activities team leads guests on explorations of the natural surroundings, while the peaceful waters of Quonochontaug Pond provide an idyllic backdrop for unforgettable stays. For those seeking to simply unwind, the beautiful views of the sea and surrounding landscape provide the perfect opportunity to relax and rejuvenate.

Overall, the Weekapaug Inn is the ideal destination for those seeking a tranquil escape. With its exceptional service, stunning location, and range of activities and amenities, guests are sure to leave with fond memories, and wanting to return.

weekapauginn.com

ARTICLE BY ALEX FRANKLIN

OCEAN HOUSE

Located in Watch Hill, Rhode Island, this Victorian-style luxury hotel offers a unique blend of modern conveniences and classic elegance. With its beautiful private beach, gourmet restaurants, and world-class spa, Ocean House is the perfect place to unwind and relax.

One of the best things about Ocean House is its attention to detail. The hotel has been lovingly restored to its original 1869 glory, while also incorporating modern amenities that today’s travelers have come to expect. The result is a harmonious blend of classic New England style and contemporary conveniences that is sure to impress even the most discerning traveler. With over 5,000 artifacts from the original building, including the beautiful stone fireplace and original front desk, Ocean House is a true testament to the rich history and heritage of the region.

For art enthusiasts and fans of the beloved Madeline books, Ocean House has a special treat in store. The hotel’s proprietors own a curated gallery collection of original works, campaigns, architectural commissions, and illustrations from the famous Madeline series by artist and author Ludwig Bemelmans. Featuring select pieces never seen by the public, this is the largest permanent collection in North America. For the full experience, reserve the just-introduced Bemelmans suite. The space features the style and atmosphere of the legacy of the famous visionary.

When it comes to accommodations, Ocean House has something for everyone. Whether you’re a couple looking for a romantic getaway or a family looking for a fun-filled vacation,

there are plenty of options to choose from. Many of the rooms offer breathtaking views of the sea, while others are larger and more spacious, perfect for larger groups or families. And if you’re looking for something truly special, the hotel’s expanded Cottage Collection is just what you need. These private residences have been fully restored with rigorous attention to detail, and are an ideal place for a family getaway, multi-generational vacation, or inspired business retreat.

One of the real stars of the show at Ocean House is the spa. The only Forbes Five-Star spa in Rhode Island, the Ocean & Harvest Spa offers a wide variety of massages, treatments, and therapies in an immaculate setting overlooking the beach and the ocean. Whether you want to take a swim year-round in the indoor pool or use the state-of-the-art fitness center, there’s something for everyone here. And with specialized options designed for expectant mothers or muscle and flexibility treatments inspired by professional athletes, you can be sure you’ll leave feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.

When it’s time to eat, there’s no shortage of options at Ocean House. COAST is a five-star, five-diamond water-view dining experience with a delicious multicourse tasting menu and exquisite wine pairings. COAST regularly features lauded guest chefs and special wine dinners, with Michelin-starred Chef Shaun Hergatt in residence this month. For additional information and reservations please visit Ocean House Events.

While at Ocean House, guests can also dine on the Verandah or in the Bistro and enjoy seasonally inspired dishes. The dark wood bar

evokes Ocean House’s 19th-century roots with a wide selection of wine and spirits.

If you’re interested in cooking or wine tasting, Ocean House also offers a Center for Wine and Culinary Arts. Built using components from an early 1800s Connecticut barn, the beautiful 3,000-square-foot space hosts cooking and wine-tasting classes, culinary events, and private gatherings. In step with the rest of the resort, the venue combines old world elegance with state-ofthe-art technology.

The service at Ocean House is exceptional, with a level of hospitality rarely seen today. The courteous and thoughtful staff goes above and beyond to make guests feel welcome, and they manage to make the sublime experience feel effortless. Fun extras like a screening room for family movies and bikes for coastal tours will keep you entertained. The private beach cabanas and croquet on the lawn are like images from the 1920s brought to life in vivid color.

Whether you choose to stay for a few nights or a few weeks, Ocean House will enchant you with its charm and beauty. The touchstones of a bygone era add a note of serene sentimentality. At once a romantic step back in time and a brilliant gem of modern luxury, the resort is simply sublime.

OceanHouseRI.com

“One of the best things about Ocean House is its attention to detail. The hotel has been lovingly restored to its original 1869 glory, while also incorporating modern amenities that today’s travelers have come to expect.”

ELEVATE YOUR NEXT EVENT WITH A POSH PICNIC

WE CURATE ELEGANT PICNICS FOR ADULTS AND WHIMSICAL PICNICS FOR KIDS

ARTICLE BY ROBIN MOYER CHUNG

DR. SHIEVA GOFRANY GOES WHERE OTHERS FEAR TO SPEAK

Though expectations in mothering have changed considerably since the 1950’s “golden age of parenting” (yeah, that’s a real thing), there’s one thing that has remained constant even throughout my own baby-rearing years: mom comes second.

When I miscarried, my fertility doctor exclaimed, “Congratulations!” I no longer had to carry a potentially unviable embryo, but I didn’t feel like celebrating. When I cared for my newborn there was no acknowledging that sleep deprivation could lead to illness (moms aren’t weaklings!). And no sympathy for the woman who desperately needed a break from full-time parenting (no videos - read them another book!).

Fast forward to today and you’ll find Big Love Fierce Juju (BLFJ) on Instagram proclaiming, “of course YES you love this blessed sleep-sucker BUT maybe no one prepares you enough for the fact that with as much love as you have exploding from every cell in your heart, the incessant lack of sleep, the ridiculous infantile neediness, coupled with the raging hormones (and add a

WOMEN’S HEALTH, ONE UNCOMFORTABLE CONVERSATION AT A TIME

side of exasperation over not being able to read the signs of what every little snivel means?) and you’ve got yourself the ROLLERCOASTER OF MOOD LABILITY!”

Yasssss Big Love!

BLFJ is Dr. Shieva Gofrany, OB/Gyn partner at Coastal OBGYN and co-founder of Tribe Called V. She talks freely about all the daunting/yucky/ let’s-change-the-subject female stuff because you’re not the only one struggling with it and by the way, it’s all perfectly normal and the only reason why we aren’t discussing the uncomfortable things is because we haven’t made them comfortable yet. But we will.

She’s hip, with bleach-blond buzz-y hair and a pile of necklaces. She’s a girlfriend, sitting in her car or in her closet, resplendent in a bright patterned dress, telling you what’s up in everywoman terms.

Shieva’s unconventional approach to women’s health education can, in part, be traced to her parents. They met in medical school in Iran (there’s a photo of the two working in a cadaver without gloves on) and moved to the U.S. before the revolution. Her mother, a pediatric resident, arrived alone. Her young husband joined her after serving his time in the army.

Despite a strict Persian upbringing, they raised Shieva and her siblings in an uncommonly liberal manner: ask anything, question anything, achieve anything.

Ultimately, Shieva went to Georgetown, switched majors several times (which worried her parental unit), then wound up in medical school for gynecology even though she her young, inexperienced self-thought being a doctor might be “kind of gross.”

In her office during chemo. (Photo: Shary Connella)

While practicing medicine, she experienced almost every kind of female body setback possible, including six miscarriages, ovarian cancer, endometriosis, two challenging pregnancies, and a continuing battle with weight.

Each health breach brought different concerns and unrelenting personal curiosity - what the hell was happening? Why aren’t we talking about this?

Piecing together answers to these questions - emotional, physical, and mental - played a significant role in her healing process. She decided to throw these answers out, unflinchingly, hoping it would help women and those who loved them.

She tackles tough issues, both as a patient and as a doctor:

“Peri-menopause is a completely natural part of the process of hormones changing preceding menopause. It’s not abnormal, but it can make you feel lousy."

“Miscarriages are common. It doesn’t mean we dismiss it, we highlight and normalize it and address what we can.”

“Periods shouldn’t be so painful that you’re curled up in a ball with a heating pad. If they are, you should address it with your doctor. If your doctor can’t help, then go to someone else.”

“Should women feel that they have to be mothers? Do we have to do it to be successful? I can imagine having a life without having had them.”

Speaking at ACS Women Leading the Way to Wellness.

(Photo: Josh Warren Photographer)

Dr. Shieva Gofrany

(Photo: Andrea Carson)

Then she launches into engrossing and, if I may add, entertaining explanations.

She doesn’t sugarcoat; she educates. If you live with an affliction, you live with an affliction. No explanation, no matter how detailed, will alleviate anything.

Of her bout with cancer, she admits “I don’t like ‘survivor’ because it implies I was on the precipice of death and was plucked back.” She continues, “Language is so deeply important. [The term ‘survivor’] can create more anxiety.”

And if a term or diagnosis does cause anxiety, she posits, “Fear should be reserved for when you’re being chased by an animal in the wild.”

Further, "NOTHING is ever ONLY, EVERYTHING is always AND,” then adds, “live in the optimism. You’re going to be upset either way. You’re human and you can handle it.”

You don’t need to be a “superhero” to be a woman. You don’t need to be a fighter to be sick. Don’t let anyone tell you who you should be or how you should react. Just be yourself. She’ll help you get through it. TribeCalledV.com

Speaking at ACS Women Leading the Way to Wellness.

(Photo: Josh Warren Photographer)

With her signature necklaces.

We are proud to be the We are proud to be the only women owned and only women owned and operated tattoo studio in operated tattoo studio in Fairfield County. Fairfield County.

SGBBW Attorneys from left to Right: Jake DelGreco, Natassia M. Fodor, Aidan R. Welsh, Jill H. Blomberg, Cynthia C. George, Peter M. Bryniczka, and Molly C. Sanford

Show Mom a Good Time

ARTICLE BY DISCOVERWESTPORTCT.COM

DiscoverWestportCT.com is Westport’s go-to resource for finding everything local, from shopping and dining to parks, events, and many other helpful listings. Here are a few Mother’s Day ideas:

1. La Plage

Breakfast in bed? Try brunch at the beach! With a special Mother’s Day brunch menu, La Plage offers wonderful eats and drinks, such as their signature Seafood Tower. LaPlageWestport.com

2. MoCA Westport

If your mom is one for the arts, MoCA is a great outing for your family. Anselm Reyle’s “Rainbow in the Dark” exhibit is on display, featuring fluorescent lights and recycled, reflective materials. MoCAWestport.org

3. Westport Farmers Market

With a wide variety of locally grown food, you’ll find some fantastic options for a breakfast in bed or a full-blown Mother’s Day meal. Or bring her with you to shop the many fresh, fun, and healthy options. WestportFarmersMarket.com

4. The Original Pancake House

Nothing says “I love you, Mom” more than fluffy and delicious flapjacks and refreshing orange juice. ILoveOPH.com

5. The Cake Box

Grab some sweet treats for a Mother’s Day cheat day at The Cake Box:  a box of delicious chocolate

chip cookies, or a selection of gluten-free and vegan options, all made from scratch. CTCakeBox.com

6. Wakeman Town Farm

Now that it’s spring, gardening classes are the perfect way to do something special with mom. Or learn how to make an authentic Italian meal in a fun taste and learn class! WakemanTownFarm.org

7. Westport Library

If you’re looking for a range of activities to do in one place, look no further than the Westport Library! Check out their full schedule of events online, from writing groups, to art exhibits and interesting lectures, and even knitting classes. WestportLibrary.org

8. Blow Dry Westport

Give the stylish mom the gift of blowouts!  BlowDrySouthport.com

9. Old Mill Grocery & Deli

Enjoy an outdoor picnic at Compo Beach. Grab some small bites from Old Mill Grocery & Deli and park yourself on a blanket by the cannons to soak in the springtime sun. OldMillGrocery.com

10. GlowBar

Book an appointment with your mom. The experienced and professional estheticians and nail techs at GlowBar will have her looking and feeling her best. GlowBar.com

1.

7.

10.

2.

6.

9.

5.

4.

3.

8.

Photo: John Videler

Make an Impact for Mom

Memorable ways to celebrate the mother figure in your life

The moms and the mother figures in our lives mean everything to us. They deserve the best every day, of course. But at least one day out of the year, we get to shower them with the same love and thoughtfulness they give to us so selflessly.

This year, we hope you’ll consider some memorable ways to make lasting memories with the mom or mother figure in your life. If you haven’t already planned something special, take a look at our list of ideas and circle your favorites. If you have kids, let them join in the fun too!

Whether you decide to spend a day at home or enjoy a day on the town, these innovative celebration ideas will include fun for the whole family and make Mom feel loved. Whatever activity or surprise you land on to show your mom, wife, sister or maternal figure your appreciation for all they do, the most important thing is that you all get to spend some quality time together.

Take a Flower Arranging Class

Mother’s Day arrives just as spring is in full bloom. Take advantage of the season by going to a flower arranging class with mom.

Plan a Spa Day For Her and Her Friends

Mom will truly appreciate you going out of your way to set her up with a massage or facial appointment. Invite her friends along, too!

Craft the Perfect Playlist

Songs about mothers and mom’s favorite songs can come together into the perfect playlist to put on during brunch or dinner. You can either make it for her or take turns being DJ and alternate picks.

Have a Make-Your-Own Pizza Party

DIY pizza: It’s a craft (depending on how artfully you place the toppings), an activity and a meal all at once! Start with basic pizza dough, then everyone gets to add their favorite toppings. Mom gets the first pick, of course.

Hold a Lawn-Game Tournament

Croquet, cornhole, bocce, outdoor Jenga or horseshoes — what’s your family’s game of choice? Split into teams and drum up some friendly rivalry — while soaking in rays — with a backyard challenge. Make it an annual event, and pass around a trophy to the winner each year.

Visit an Amusement Park

For the mom who’s always seeking adventure, a trip to your nearest amusement park will be a welcome surprise. Not only will you be able to treat her to her fill of funnel cakes and caramel corn, but she’ll enjoy all the rides and attractions her heart desires. If you ask us, it’s a win-win.

Have a Backyard BBQ

Sure, backyard barbecues are often associated with Father’s Day, but Mom loves her burgers and dogs, too, so why should Dad get all the fun? If the weather cooperates, fire up the grill!

Make Something Totally Unique

If you do a DIY craft project, write a poem or come up with a silly dance, you know mom will love it because it is 100% you. No one can one-up a one-of-a-kind experience! You can make them for her and present them to her, or involve her in their creation.

Spruce Up The Garden

Gardeners know that Mother’s Day is the perfect time to start planting seeds. Get the whole family outside and dig in the dirt together. Every time she sees them, she’ll be reminded of the special day — it’s the gift that keeps on giving! Some flowers that are fairly easy to maintain include sunflowers, marigolds and sweet peas.

Make Pottery

Not only will you leave with a one-of-a-kind piece, but you’ll also be able to bond as you explore a new activity.

Head to the Farmers Market

There’s nothing like waking up with the sun and going to the farmer’s market on the weekend. Pick fresh produce and discover new favorites with mom, coffee in hand.

Watch Home Movies

Whether this involves digitizing old VHS tapes or getting video files off your phone and onto the TV, dig into the family archives and host a home-movie marathon. She’ll get emotional seeing how much everyone has grown.

Check Something Off Her To-Do List

Dad knows - Mom has a to-do list a mile long. Whether it’s tasks around the house or a DIY project, find out what has been nagging Mom and help her cross it off her list by doing it for her!

Play a Family Board Game

If Mom likes strategizing, challenge her to a friendly board game competition. (And, no, you don’t have to let her win just because it’s Mother’s Day.)

Pick Your Own Fruit

This activity is especially fun if you have a lot of kids who want to get in on the action. Then, when you all get home, you can whip up a treat for Mom with your selections. (Maybe give her a strawberry in a Champagne glass while she waits.)

Book Her a Weekend Away

There’s no day like Mother’s Day to be impulsive! Book a weekend trip for the two of you at a cute B&B in a city Mom has always wanted to visit.

Complete a Jigsaw Puzzle

Get Theater Tickets

Go to a play or a musical — lots of towns even host outdoor theater events.

Find a puzzle with an image you know your mom will love (or make a custom one using a photo of the two of you) and put it together over wine and snacks. You’ll be amazed at how much chatting you can get done while puzzling. 20

Invite Her To High Tea

Whether you make the brews and treats yourself or head out to an official tea house, Mom will love sipping her beverage out of fancy china and snacking on tea sandwiches.

northstarwellness.care

A curated selection of the most intriguing upcoming events in our area.

MAY 3RD

Rainbow in the Dark

MOCA WESTPORT | 12:00 PM

Don't miss  Rainbow in the Dark, a solo exhibition by German contemporary artist Anselm Reyle, one of the most renowned contemporary artists in the world. His bestknown works include his foil and strip paintings and his sculptures. Remnants of consumer society and discarded materials play a central role in his works. Through May 28. MoCAWestport.org

MAY 5TH

Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs

MUSIC THEATRE OF CT, 509 WESTPORT AVE., NORWALK | 7:30 PM

Enjoy a student production of a classic fairytale! This musical version of Snow White and The Seven Dwarfs was written by MTC with all original music by Kevin Connors, MTC’s Exec. Artistic Director. Runs through Sunday, May 6. For more information, MusicTheatreOfCT.com

MAY 10TH

Taste of Westport 2023

THE INN AT LONGSHORE | 6:00 PM

Enjoy all you can eat & drink from an impressive list of your favorite local establishments. Dance to the music of the Bar Car Band, one of Fairfield County's most popular bands. Bid on fantastic prizes in the silent auction. And help raise money to support the men and women with autism and other developmental disabilities that call CLASP home! TasteOfWestport.com

Erica Adler LCSW

MAY 10TH

Abigail’s Revenge: How the Women’s Movement Shook Up America

WESTPORT LIBRARY | 7:00 PM

In the spring of 1776, Abigail Smith Adams warned her husband John of a “Ladies’ rebellion” if women’s concerns were not recognized at the nation’s founding. The future U.S. president mocked his wife and dismissed her pleas. But Abigail’s words proved prescient, as generations of women have fought for equality and demanded justice. Learn some American history you didn’t learn in school. WestportLibrary.org

MAY 13TH

Supper & SoulJohnny Folsom 4

WESTPORT LIBRARY | 6:00 PM

“…a peerless tribute band to the late, great Johnny Cash.” — DAVID MENCONI, NEWS & OBSERVER. This show is not to be missed.

Choose from 1 of 11 participating restaurants. First-come first-served reservations after you purchase your ticket. Concert only tickets also available for $35. Restrictions apply. Contact matthew@westportweston chamber.com

MAY 18TH

Chats on the Past: Sofi Thanhauser

WESTPORT MUSEUM FOR HISTORY AND CULTURE | 6:00 PM

Join us for an in-person discussion with Sofi Thanhauser, author of Worn: A People’s History of Clothing. Thanhauser will discuss her book, a fascinating history of textiles we use today and their origins from Lou is XIV’s reign to modern-day mass production of clothing. Learn how clothing is much more than a piece of fabric – it’s foundational to our history. Register online at History.org/programs

WHAT IS YOUR PRICE?

ATTENTION! Westport is in HIGH DEMAND! I have a LONG list of buyers who only want Westport. If you’re thinking of selling now or in the future, call me for a free & confidential home evaluation today!

EVENTS CONTINUED

MAY 18TH

Twenty Years on the Road with Ana Popovic

WALL STREET THEATER, 71 WALL STREET, NORWALK | 8:00 PM

The award-winning guitar player, singer and songwriter, releases 'Live for LIVE', an exciting hour and a half CD & DVD demonstrating why she's proudly looking back at a career of thousands of shows worldwide. This high-energy concert showcases not only Ana's mesmerizing guitar skills but also her fabulous band, successfully merging musical styles. WallStreetTheater.com

MAY 20TH

Music at MoCA: Joni

Mitchell Tribute by Michelle Pauker

MOCA WESTPORT | 7:00 PM

Join us to celebrate the music of Joni Mitchell, one of the most influential recording artists of the late 20th century. Michelle Pauker is an actress, singer-songwriter, and artist raised in Westport, CT. You may have caught Michelle’s most recent show with Music at MoCA this past summer, “Broadway Through the Ages,” which played to a sold-out audience! MoCAWestport.org

MAY 21ST

The Pout Pout Fish

WESTPORT COUNTRY

PLAYHOUSE | 1:00 PM

Turn the poutiest of frowns upside down in this musical featuring whimsical puppets and live performers in a sweeping oceanic adventure. When Mr. Fish sets out on a quest to find Miss Clam’s missing pearl, he discovers there is more to him than his permanently plastered pout. WestportPlayhouse.org

MAY 21ST

erin.melson@cbrealty.com erinmelsonhomes.com

@erinmelson.realestate /erinmelson.realestate

Classical Music Concert to Benefit Ukraine

EMMANUEL GREAT HALL, 285 LYONS PLAIN ROAD, WESTON | 3:00 PM

Our amazing performers Anna Golodinskii, Pavlo Gintov, and Denis Savelyev will present a breathtaking

concert program including world classical jewels for voice, piano and flute by composers Lysenko, Bortkiewicz, Kosenko, Schubert, Hogan, Faure, arrangements of most beloved Ukrainian folk songs. BlueSkyUkraine.com

MAY 27TH

50th Annual Westport Fine Arts Festival

MAIN STREET, WESTPORT | 10:00 AM

The 50th Westport Fine Arts Festival is a highlight on the calendars of art collectors from New England and Manhattan each year. Original, juried works in Painting, Watercolor, Photography/Digital Art, Sculpture, Drawing (Pastel, Pencil, Ink), Printmaking, Mixed Media, Glass/ Ceramics, Jewelry, and Wood are displayed in beautiful downtown Westport, CT. Live music, special performances, and children's activities make this a festival for everyone. WestportDowntown.com

MAY 29TH

Memorial Day Parade

RIVERSIDE AVENUE TO PARKER

HARDING PLAZA | 9:00 AM

The longtime Westport tradition, the Memorial Day Parade, begins on Riverside Avenue. A service on Veterans Green immediately follows the parade. The parade and service are in honor of the veterans who made the ultimate sacrifice for our country. Bill Vornkahl has been involved in running the parade for over 50 years. Bill is a lifelong Westport resident and Army veteran. WestportCT.gov

Want to be featured?

Get in touch by heading over to our landing page to connect: CityLifestyle.com/Westport

TUNE UP YOUR MIND & BODY FOR OPTIMAL WELLNESS

SUGI ACUPRESSURE offers the health benefits of acupuncture, but without using needles--just manual pressure. It is an effective style of bodywork therapy well-suited to treat acute aches and pains or chronic maladies. Reduce inflammation and boost your mood. Manage anxiety and depression. Maintain overall wellness with a truly holistic approach that unifies the mind and body.

By appointment only.

INJAE CHOE PHD, LMT

20+ Years Experience | sugiacupressure.com

Serving Westport, Weston and surrounding towns. House calls available.

Text 646.823.5386 | injae.choe@gmail.com

| @sugiacupressure

New Location: Sugi Acupressure, 21 Bridge Square, Westport, CT 06880

(Photo by Heidi Curran)

Dr.

Letter from the Editor

ARTICLE BY ROBIN MOYER CHUNG

Husbands nominated wives. Grandchildren nominated grandmothers. Friends nominated friends. Children nominated moms (I’m going to make my kids an instructional video on how to nominate me next year. I can’t win, but it doesn’t mean they can’t nominate me.)

Being a part of our Westport community has unlimited rewards. It also has unlimited challenges. With respect to both, we discerned an important throughline among our WoW nominations: one of benevolence.

I know, I know. “Benevolence” is that fancy word we stumbled upon while grinding through our 7th-grade European history book then carelessly thesaurus-ed into our college admissions essay. But when excised from these tedious and cringey reads, it’s an apt term for what we value.

Collectively, these nominations are a tacit admission that, at some point, we all seek comfort and compassion. Not only do we appreciate receiving it, but we are eager to acknowledge those who offer it.

So who offers this?

Women who dedicate themselves to underserved communities; they serve quietly, so you may be surprised to learn what they do.

Women who educate, both academically and in teaching people their self-worth and potential. Those who raise funds, provide companionship and spend countless hours learning about different cultures and traditions so they can best assist adults and children with varied upbringings.

Women who have chosen relentless professions, working beyond expectations to heal and console our family members or tackle difficult financial and medical problems.

Women who founded beloved businesses, focusing their talents on Westport and preserving what makes our town special and unique.

Nominees are lauded for their strength and character, not for their social media following, personal belongings, or luxurious home. If any are lucky enough to have such, it certainly doesn’t define them.

In their volunteer work, profession, family life, and friendships, they want to make someone a bit happier or more secure than they were the day before.

In short, all of these women lead with kindness.

Photo: Ashley Skatoff

THE ALL NEW RANGE ROVER

BL AZE YOUR OWN TRAIL

ORDER YOURS TODAY

In the all-new Range Rover, you don’t follow the crowd you blaze your own trail This is the most desirable Range Rover ever created, The Range Rover represents the pinnacle of progressive luxury, Proportions are defined by aesthetic grace, sophistication and refinement, The reductive nature of the design is free from superfluous detail, resulting in a form which speaks to modernity, yet is full of charm At Land Rover Fairifeld, experience true luxury with Valet Pick Up and Delivery, courtesy vehicle and an exceptional team catering to your needs

Order your all new Range Rover at Land Rover Fairfield today.

LAND ROVER FAIRFIELD

One Commerce Drive, Fairfield, CT 06825

203 856 5546

landroverfairfield.com