Stamford Magazine, September/October 2018

THE INN CROWD Five Charming Getaways Just a Short Drive Away pg. 98

STAMFORD John Bolognino

FALL FASHION PREVIEW

Hot looks to love now!

KEEPING UP APPEARANCES

Ashley Xu

Behind the scenes with celebrity stylists KATE YOUNG, ERIN WALSH, ROB ZANGARDI and MARIEL HAENN

Look Out

WORLD Our Teens Their Words Anusha Attre Megan Baloutch John Bolognino Luke Buttenwieser Liam Gelling Lalith Goli Anisha Laumas Juliette Lipson Jaimie Lopez Audrey Molina Caleb Osemobor Ashley Xu

Megan Baloutch SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2018 | $5.95

Join Us!

Collage by Tracy Hambley on view at the Outdoor Arts Festival, Saturday & Sunday, October 6 – 7

Join the Bruce Museum today and enjoy these Member Benefits all year: • Unlimited free admission to the Museum

—View a dozen or more art & science exhibitions a year

• 10% discount on Museum Store purchases

—Save on jewelry, books, posters, hostess gifts & more

• Invitations to Members-Only exhibition openings

—Including Friday, September 21 reception for our major fall exhibition, ReTooled: Highlights from the Hechinger Collection

• Free admission to annual festivals

—Including the Fall Arts Festival and the Spring Crafts Festival

• Free admission to dozens of museums in Connecticut and New York —The Aldrich Contemporary Art Museum, Yale Peabody Museum of Natural History, New York Hall of Science, Intrepid: Sea, Air & Space Museum, and many more!

BRUCE MUSEUM brucemuseum.org

Annual memberships:

Family/Dual: $65 • Individual: $60 • Senior: $40 • Student: $35 To become a member or for information on other membership categories and benefits, visit brucemuseum.org or call Laura Freeman at 203-413-6764.

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PROMOTION

A

FAMILY AFFAIR THE FIRST FAMILY OF SPECIAL EVENTS HOSTS A WEDDING FROM THE HEART THE WATERS EDGE AT GIOVANNI’S

PROMOTION

After creating and implementing thousands of weddings over the years, this July JoAnn Latorraca finally found herself in the role of Mother of the Groom, as her firstborn son, Steven, one of four boys, prepared for his walk down the aisle.

Started in 1977, JoAnn’s father, Giovanni, opened the first restaurant. From there JoAnn and her husband Sal began to use the same gift for great food in their recipes when creating memorable events. Now, almost 40 years later, the Latorraca family continues to elate their new and old clients at various business and family occasions at The Waters Edge at Giovanni’s. As recipients many times over for The Gold Coast Award, the Latorraca family has remained one of the area’s most beloved special events venues for 35 plus years.

JoAnn Latorraca, owner and VP of Events along with Sal, General Manager says, “The most unique challenge was being involved in the overall planning of my son and my new daughter-in law’s wedding.

I knew everyone had high expectations, but I treated this event like I was planning a memorable wedding for any of our special clients, and I imagined all the possibilities.”

For the new couple, the Latorracas envisioned an elegant black-tie affair complete with cocktails outside overlooking the Long Island Sound under a sailcloth tent, an intimate sit-down dinner for 200 and an after party that rocked even the oldest guests to dance the night away!

JoAnn explains, “When Meg and Steven came to us they expressed what they wanted, and we realized that the church and venue were the same that Sal and I had chosen 30 years ago for our wedding.

We giggled at the coincidence. After many conversations about their expectations, it was our task to create a day that would be forever be their own. It is truly the same way I enter every discussion with every new couple, it’s our jobs to make every couple’s personal dreams into a reality for one of the biggest days of their lives. And it’s always an honor for us to be a part of that dream making.

“What sets us apart is our personal touch. We are a family-run business that truly cares for each of our guests. Our entire lives are filled with the very best food, the utmost attention to detail, and our regard for service is an extension of us. We treat every guest as if he or she were family, whether it’s a bridal couple or a business executive.

Our loyal customers keep coming back because they know we take care of everything and they can be a guest(s) at their own party.”

One of The Gold Coast’s premier special events venues, with a waterfront backdrop and spaces from both intimate dinners to grand affairs of up to 750 guests, The Waters Edge is also a top-rated restaurant, where a team of highly skilled chefs create the finest cuisine in the state. When it comes time to host your next affair, put yourself in the hands of a team that will treat you like family.

TO LEARN MORE, Please call 203.325.9979 or Visit WatersEdgeAtGiovannis.com • #WEGFamily

PHOTOS: SHADES SHUTTERS PHOTOGRAPHY & © RAVEN / ADOBE STOCK

BUSINESS BANQUET RESTAURANT 2748 Post Road, Darien CT 06820 203.325.9979 • WatersEdgeAtGiovannis.com • #WEGFamily

PRETTY PAIR pg. 28

WORKING GIRLS pg. 24

ANIMAL PRINTS pg. 22

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2018

NTENTS 80S’ GLAM pg. 26

C

22

We’ve Got Fall Covered Runway looks for everyone’s favorite fashion season

84 | Bound for Greatness

BY CAMILLA A. HERRERA

Prepare to be schooled—twelve Teens to Watch tell us what it takes to make the grade.

98 | The Inn Crowd

BY JEANNE CRAIG

Bucket list-worthy getaway destinations for the discerning traveler. And they’re all less than thirty minutes away.

108 | Haute Help

BY MEGAN GAGNON

Styling powerhouses Kate Young, Erin Walsh, and Mariel Haenn and Rob Zangardi on the business of getting read-carpet ready

DEPARTMENTS 14 | EDITOR’S LETTER

BY CAMILLA A. HERRERA

17 | STATUS REPORT Buzz: Best Bartender; Where Are They Now? Shop: Fashion Preview: Wild for Fall Do: Gallery Openings; Cholesterol Control; Making a Sale; Boxing Fitness Home: Million Miles Photography; The Collective; EcoFriendly Design Go: Pro Packing Tips; Jeep Wrangler Eat: Mexicue; Sours, the New “It” Beer

56 | FINANCE FIX

BY CAROL LEONETTI DANNHAUSER

61 | VOWS Koontz–Barada

63 | SCENE STEALERS Boys & Girls Club of Stamford, Childcare Learning Centers of Fairfield County, CT Against Gun Violence, End Allergies Together, Laurel House, Moffly Media’s Women in Business, Palace Theatre, Young Artists Philharmonic,

119 | INDEX OF ADVERTISERS 120 | LAST WORD

BY BETH LEVINE

58 | DAD ABOUT TOWN

BY KEVIN MCKEEVER

COVER: photograph by Hulya Kolabas; shot on location at Lillian August Warehouse; set dressing by Garvin Burke STAMFORD magazine SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2018, VOL. 9, NO. 5 STAMFORD magazine is published bimonthly by Moffly Media, Inc., 205 Main St., Westport, CT 06880. POSTMASTER: Send address changes (Form 3579) to Stamford Magazine, P.O. Box 9309, Big Sandy, TX, 75755-9607.

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NOW IT’S TWO AGAINST ONE

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On the go or online at home, you can easily reach our coverage of interesting people, stylish finds and fashion, fun things to do, new restaurants, and more, more, more. All the fun’s at stamfordmag.com. See you there!

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EAT: MEXICUE, CONTRIBUTED; PEOPLE NCNC LUNCHEON BY MARILYN ROOS PHOTOGRAPHY; HOME, SUSAN MACLEOD BY PHOTOGRAPHS BY NEIL LANDINO, JR.; GO, STEIN ERIKSEN LODGE, CONTRIBUTED; SHOP, KATE YOUNG, CONTRIBUTED; BUZZ, FAIRFIELD THEATRE COMPANY BY DAVID GRAY

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STAMFORD VOLUME 9 NUMBER 5

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2018

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Successful Real Estate Sales Demands Hard Work Your Choice of a Real Estate Professional is Easy

STAMFORD VOLUME 9 NUMBER 5

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2018

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Karen Kelly PUBLISHER AT LARGE

Jonathan Moffly

sales & marketing SALES MANAGEMENT

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Congratulations to the Stamford Public Schools Class of 2018 Graduates We wish our graduates well as they head to institutions of higher learning, careers and the U.S. Armed Forces.

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EDITOR’S Letter

CAMILLA A. HERRERA

Dream Teens

CHECK IT OUT! Table Talk

Our new and improved online dining guide to our city is now live.

Get the latest updates as we continue to build this service.

For more, visit STAMFORD.MAG/RESTAURANTS

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of color are starting to peek through the foliage but odds are you haven’t noticed.

It happens to me, too; with the lazy days of August mostly behind us, we tend to pick up the pace to manage the flurry of activity fall always brings. It’s as if Labor Day marks the time to embrace change and get to work on all the projects, obligations and wish-list items that were postponed Memorial Day. Some mourn the increased planning that makes up this time period, but I look forward to it. I see it as part of a spell that is filled with so much potential. It’s as if the relaxation and travel I enjoy over summer bolsters me to take on the to-do list and believe each item on it to be achievable. It doesn’t matter that come November, all I will have time for is bagging fallen leaves.

Right now, fall looks full of promise.

As teens gear up for school, sports, college planning and all the critical milestones that lay ahead for them, they probably experience a similar excitement.

Makes sense; in this moment, everything is new, from supplies and first-week-of-school outfits to teachers and class subjects. Sure, there will be tests, homework, deadlines and the stress of getting it all done—and done well. But for now, it all seems doable.

Remember that feeling? I sure do.

Which brings me to this year’s class of Teens to Watch (see pg. 84), yet another pool of amazing brainpower and talent.

Every year I am impressed by the depth of their gifts and feats. But with this group, there’s more. I witnessed levels of maturity and confidence rarely seen in people their age. They are not afraid to dream big. They are funny yet wise. Given all that, one quality they share that sticks out to this day is how hopeful they are.

It’s important to note that I met them a few months ago. School was almost over; they were focused on finals and other endof-year duties. Still, they were present and insightful, already filled with anticipation for what they had on tap for the summer and their senior years. They acknowledged the responsibilities and challenges would be plenty but cherished the potential— there’s that word again— afforded by the opportunities that would come.

So, when they told me they plan to change the world, I believed them. Don’t take my word for it. Read it for yourself.

camilla.herrera@moffly.com

PHOTOGRAPH BY BRUCE PLOTKIN

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BUZZ status report

Straight Up

BEST BARTENDER • WHERE ARE THEY NOW?

Q: Do you have any memorable bartending experiences? Any you wish you could forget?

A: I have so many memorable experiences.

I think that’s why I love my job so much. I get to work with friends who are like family. Some of the most memorable moments happen [afterhours] when we all get to unwind together over a few drinks.

sher e publi agazin t-place m rd Stamfo the firs above: elly presents K . s is e Karen Z to Erik trophy

PHOTOGRAPHS BY MOFFLY MEDIA’S BIG PICTURE/BOB CAPAZZO

Erik Zeiss of Sign of the Whale holds his title as Stamford magazine’s Best Bartender. Patrick Martin of F.I.S.H. and April Lacko of Table 104 take home second- and third-place honors.

T

wenty area bartenders battled it out to be named the city’s top mixologist in our annual bartending competition, which drew record crowds to Harbor Point to sample the buzzy cocktails they prepared. Clearly people were in the mood for something fruity, giving the most votes to Erik Zeiss’ “Life’s a Peach.” Patrick Martin’s “Ripple Effect” and April Lacko’s “The Angry Rooster” also won raves. Here’s what our mix masters had to say about the event and perks of the job, as well as important advice for the next time you’re out on the town. —Joey Macari

FIRST PLACE Erik Zeiss Sign of the Whale Q: Why did you become a bartender?

A: I started bartending when I was about nineteen or twenty, because [at] that age, [I thought], there is no one cooler than a bartender.

Q: For brunch, Bloody Mary or Mimosa?

Something else?

A: Bloody Mary all day.

It’s one of the most underappreciated drinks of all time. There’s nothing better than dressing up a Bloody Mary with the fixins’.

Q: In your opinion, what’s the best cure for a hangover?

A: Coconut water and plenty of sleep. Lots of sleep.

Q: What’s the most creative gratuity you’ve ever received?

A: I had a guy give me a European adapter for electronics in case I ever went to Europe.

Q: If you weren’t a bartender, what would you be?

A: I really don’t know at this point. I find bartending to be the perfect job for me because I like talking to people and throwing a party.

Q: After a long shift, what do you pour for yourself?

A: Jameson neat. If you drink Jameson on the rocks you are [crazy].

above: The winning cocktail, “Life’s a Peach” by Erik Zeiss

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2018 STAMFORD

17

BUZZ SECOND PLACE Patrick Martin F.I.S.H. Q: How does it feel coming so close to a win?

I’m not really concerned about [not winning].

Everyone [here] made great drinks, and I think the competition is more about enjoying yourself.

It’s important to get out in front of people and offer a new experience.

Many competitions involve mostly members of the industry, so it was nice to share a piece of what we do with people who may not know that bar competitions are a regular part of our professional lives.

Q: Why bartending?

A: I’ve been bartending since I was in college.

There was a time when it was just a job [but] over the years it’s become my profession. Working behind the bar allows me to meet new people, be creative, and it keeps me challenged.

Q: You must have some great bartending memories.

A: There are too many to count. Those nights when you’re really on point are addicting, [when] every customer is having a great time [and] you haven’t made the same drink twice because you’re creating off the top of your head. It’s a rush.

Q: What’s the best cure for a hangover?

A: Hair of the Dog (aka more alcohol), though most of my non-industry friends lean on Pedialyte.

Q: After a long shift, what do you pour for yourself?

A: I’ll have a beer with a whiskey or a Fernet Branca, neat, on the side.

Q: What’s the most creative gratuity you’ve ever received?

A: I had a patron bring me his guitar. He [wanted] to unload his Fender after the neck broke so I told him I could easily fix it. He brought it the next day and told me to keep it.

The Buzz at Best Bartender

TOP SHELF

An up-close look at the party crowd

1

THIRD PLACE April Lacko Table 104 Q: Why bartending?

A: I didn’t choose the life.

It chose me.

Q: Do you have any memorable bartending experiences? Any you wish you could forget?

A: Every shift is usually quite memorable in its own way. The one shift I’d like to forget: While serving Keith Richards his cocktail, I accidentally threw it into his lap.

2

3

4

Q: If you weren’t a bartender, what would you be?

A: A comedian Q: What’s the best cure for a hangover?

A: Small mushroom pie at Beverly Pizza in Black Rock Q: Your fave cocktail?

A: I like a nice refreshing glass of our (Baron de Seillac) sparkling rosé to unwind.

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5 1 Jackie and Max Cuscuna, Jenna Derenzis, Eric Garcia 2 James Doyle, Dave Roberts, Caroline and Marcus Stinebaugh 3 Eva Marie Janerus, Kevin Mowers of Bom Bom 4 Tara Bresnick, Philip Fortunato of SaltBar 5 Kunjan Patel, Jessica Veliz, Tiffany Arias, Lilia See, Gerslyn Silva, Anna Zarova

PHOTOGRAPHS BY MOFFLY MEDIA’S BIG PICTURE/BOB CAPAZZO

Q: What pick-up lines do you wish you’d never heard?

A: “Are you a parking ticket? Because you have ‘fine’ written all over you.”

Open House

October 21 • 1 p.m.

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

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

Greenwich Country Day School is a co-ed, independent N-12 college preparatory day school in Greenwich, Connecticut that graduates ethical, confident learners and leaders with a strong sense of purpose—ready to embrace opportunities and challenges in a world of rapid change ↗ www.gcds.net ↗ 203-863-5610 ↗ admissions@gcds.net ↗ 401 Old Church Road Greenwich CT 06830

acquire critical skills, habits of mind, and confidence.

The only co-educational independent N-12 school in Greenwich, GCDS is a joyful \/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\ /\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/ environment where curiosity and creativity \/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\ /\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/ are valued, resilience is cultivated, and the \/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\ /\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/ health and well-being of every student \/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\ /\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/ \/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\ is essential.

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HELLO, HOLLYWOOD!

Actor SEAN ORMOND sets his sights on the big screen

NOW above: Sean Ormond’s publicity photo left: A rising senior from Stamford High

THEN

five feature films, a TV show and five shorts, one of which he wrote, and is currently producing, directing and financing himself.

Does he now prefer film over theater? Hard to say.

“They are two different worlds, and I am still learning.

The money is [better] in film, so in that regard it’s easier to make a living. I will get residuals for a long time when these films go to [a] streaming service, as opposed to theater, where when you are done, you are done.” On the other hand, it can be mortifying to see your face twenty feet high on a huge screen. “At least in theater, if you have a bad show, there’s always another night to try to get it right.”

That’s not to say he doesn’t still have Broadway ambitions.

“My goal for the future is to use the momentum from film to continue climbing the ladder in the acting world and then hopefully have the ability and financial stability to do theater was well.” In fact, as of this writing, he is being considered as a replacement in a current Broadway hit.

Fingers crossed!

ADVICE FOR TODAY’S TEENS “Get out into the world. You don’t want to be in the habit of having your core happiness [tied] to the peaks and valleys of your career. No one can see the future, and one small opportunity or person can change your life. For me, it was this one small film I didn’t really care about [at first], and it opened up everything [for me].”

PHOTOGRAPHS: TEENS IN 2010 BY KIT NOBLE; OTHERS CONTRIBUTED

B

ack in 2010, Sean Ormond had dreams of starring on Broadway. That may soon come true, but with a detour through Hollywood first. The Stamford High graduate attended the theater conservatory at University of Miami, and during his senior year was cast in an indie film called I Want to Beat Up Clark Peters, which made the film circuit around the country and won him eight prizes for Best Actor. And from that small film, his career blew up.

While still in school, he started getting a wave of offers from Los Angeles agents. He signed with Stewart Talent and with the management company McGuffin Management. The summer after graduation, he also got the coveted Equity card, which allows him to perform on stage in union theaters.

“Having that team working for me changes everything,” says Ormond. “It is not possible to get seen for TV [and theater] auditions without representation.”

In the two years since graduating, he has been in

BUZZ bout a year after Stamford magazine was born, we debuted “Ten Teens to Watch,” the first of what became an annual feature that celebrates high-achieving high schoolers. As we approach A our tenth birthday, we wondered, what have they been up to? So we reached out to actor Sean Ormond and musician Emma Hart, and are happy to report these two continue to dream big. —Beth Levine

NURSING A PASSION

Musician EMMA HART pursues a degree while continuing to record

NOW

W

hen we last saw Emma Hart, she was fiddling her way to Manhattan College’s precollege program to study violin with jazz great Sara Caswell. This lit a fire in her heart for jazz, which led her to major in jazz performance at McGill University in Montreal. Bluegrass, however, was still in her soul, and she continued to perform with her father, Dave. She has learned to play guitar, mandolin, viola and banjo, and has overcome her shyness about singing.

Life has a way of throwing curveballs, though. Emma was not able to finish at McGill because of unmanaged, undiagnosed symptoms of chronic Lyme disease. She ended up having to come

home. “I had several very difficult years, but I have managed to turn it around and I am very much in control of my health these days,” she says. “It was a huge effort to get back on track, but I kept going with music,” she says.

In 2013, she and her father released their first album, Hold On, which reached near the top 100 on the Americana Music Association charts.

It was produced by a fiddler Emma has idolized since she was ten years old, Jim Van Cleve. “I used to learn his solos note for note,” she says.

The album remains “one of the things I am proudest of in my life.” The Harts are currently working on a second album.

Today, Hart lives in Asheville, North Carolina, with her boyfriend, Nicky Sanders, a fellow fiddler who plays with the Steep Canyon Rangers, the band that tours

with Steve Martin.

She, of course, is there for the bluegrass scene, right? Wrong. She is there because she is attending nursing school. “I have many passions, and I’ve always been a nurturer. If you had asked me five years ago if I could see myself here, I wouldn’t have thought so. But now I feel I’ve grown up, and I plan to be a nurse full time,” she explains.

Music will always be a central part of her life, however, and she continues to work remotely with her father. She adds: “The greatest thing about nursing is that it’s three twelvehour shifts a week, so I will have time for my music. I see myself doing both. I am not going to limit myself.”

THEN

ADVICE FOR TODAY’S TEENS “Just hang [in there]. It’s going to get a lot harder before it gets easier, but [I promise] it will get better. I wouldn’t have made it and be in the place I am right now without my family by my side. It’s okay to lean on other people.

People who love you will never hold it against you for needing them.”

above: In a recent performance with her father, Dave Hart left: A rising senior from Westhill

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2018 STAMFORD

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status report produced by megan gagnon

FALL FASHION

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LEOPARD AND SPARKLE AND PINK! OH MY! BOLD PICKS—AND SOME WORKWEEK NEUTRALS—FOR THE NEW SEASON

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IMAGES COURTESY OF DESIGNERS/BRANDS

1. VICTORIA BECKHAM Coat; $3,490. Copious Row, Greenwich; copiousrow.com 2. REBECCA DE RAVENEL Lea paw earrings; $275. rebeccaderavenel.com 3. MARC CAIN Coat; $810. The Westchester; marc-cain.com 4. CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTIN Lady See; $1,145. christianlouboutin.com 5. ALL SAINTS Vincent shoulder bag; $368.

Penfield Collective, Fairfield; penfieldcollective.com

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1. TORY BURCH Lee Radziwill leather satchel; $798. Greenwich; toryburch.com 2. WARBY PARKER Bell eyeglasses; starting at $95. Greenwich; warbyparker.com 3. VINCE Ralston in Horchata; $325. Greenwich, Westport; vince.com 4. CAMILLA AND MARC Dimmer blazer; $660. Perfect Provenance, Greenwich; theperfectprovenance.com 5. BALMAIN Tweed mini skirt; $1,350. Mitchells, Westport; shop.mitchellstores.com 6. CHANEL Boy.Friend watch; $11,200. Betteridge; betteridge.com 7. STUART WEITZMAN Veruka boot; $698. Greenwich; stuartweitzman.com 8. L’AGENCE Julia jumpsuit; $595. lagencefashion.com 9. HOBBS Ayla jacket; $395. Ayla trouser; $230. Florina coat; $700. Mischa roll neck; $75.

Ada boot; $360. Oxford saddle bag; $315. Greenwich; hobbs.com

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1. MICHAEL Michael Kors Addie sneaker; $150. Lord & Taylor, Stamford; lordandtaylor.com 2. ATTICO Sequined velvet robe dress; $2,390. Saks Fifth Avenue, Greenwich; saks.com 3. TOM FORD Natalia large crystal shoulder bag; $11,500. Neiman Marcus, The Westchester; neimanmarcus.com 4. JIMMY CHOO Hurley 100 boots; $1,795. Saks Greenwich 10022-SHOE; saks.com 5. GRAFF Multi-shape diamond abstract earrings; price upon request.

Saks Greenwich The Vault; graffdiamonds.com 6. JUDITH LEIBER COUTURE Rahim boom box clutch; $5,995. judithleiber.com 7. LONGCHAMP Coat; $3,630.

Greenwich; longchamp.com 8. VERONICA BEARD Skirt; $650. veronicabeard.com 9. ZARA Gemmed hoops; $25.90. Greenwich, Stamford; zara.com 10. MANOLO BLAHNIK Spill in suede and fur; $2,995. manoloblahnik.com 11. MICHELLE MASON Striped blazer dress; $690. intermixonline.com 12. JULIANNA BASS Adellade skirt; $1,295. Michelle Farmer, Greenwich; michellefarmer.com 13. SCHUTZ Bette bootie; $258. anthropologie.com

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IMAGES COURTESY OF DESIGNERS/BRANDS

TOM FORD

TEMPERLEY LONDON

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Above & Beyond The Frank family of Stamford: Tim, Ryan ‘22, McKenna, Kylie and Sarah.

“ My daughter and a bunch of her friends were recently gathered in our kitchen. They were talking about graduation and someone said, ‘The thing about St. Luke’s is—they make you so comfortable to be you.’

That says it all. The academics are challenging. The kids are given a chance to lead and take risks, yet they always know it’s cool to be you no matter who you are. You are encouraged to be your authentic self.”

- Sarah Frank, Mother of McKenna, Attending Wake Forest University

Open Houses: October 21 & 28

See St. Luke’s 2018 College List: www.stlukesct.org/2018 2018 Top Ten Best College Prep High School in CT - Niche.com St. Luke’s is a secular, college-preparatory day school for grades 5-12.

203.801.4833 | admissions@stlukesct.org | www.stlukesct.org 377 North Wilton Road, New Canaan, CT 06840

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status report

For Art’s Sake

GALLERY OPENINGS • CHOLESTEROL CONTROL • MAKING THE SALE • BOXING FITNESS

Who cares if the temps will soon begin to dip. With the new season, fine arts institutions will be delivering new exhibits and mustsee presentations that together reinforce our belief that the local arts scene is experiencing a resurgence. Sure, it’s modest. But given the signs and breadth of output, those of us who appreciate classical arts have plenty to look forward to in the weeks to come.

Offset lithograph Three Way Plug by Oldenburg

1

TOOL KITS

Later this month at the BRUCE MUSEUM, “ReTooled: Highlights from the Hechinger Collection” will feature more than forty paintings, sculptures, works on paper and photographs by twenty-eight artists, including Red Grooms, Walker Evans, Jim Dine and Claes Oldenburg that spotlight tools.

By emphasizing the purity of their design or highlighting their obsolescence in a digital age, the show reminds us that tools embody optimism and the quest to improve quality of life.

The STAMFORD ART ASSOCIATION will host its nationally recognized “Faber Birren Color Show” at the Townhouse Gallery.

In its thirty-eighth year, this annual competition is the only one of its kind devoted exclusively to the expression of color. It will open with a reception and feature winners and noteworthy pieces selected from works submitted from all over the country. Juror Lindsay Ganter, administrator in the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s Leonard A. Lauder Research Center for Modern Art, will curate.

Sept. 23–Oct. 25

39 Franklin St.; stamfordartassociation.org

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“False Flag: The Space Between Paranoia and Reason” is a group show at FRANKLIN STREET WORKS that will investigate the continuum of paranoia as subject matter, philosophy and psychological state through video, sculpture, paintings and photographs. Artists include Darja Bajagic, James Benning, Theodore Darst, Violet Dennison, Mark Flood, Juliana Huxtable, Stanya Kahn and Harry Dodge, Daniel Keller, Tim Trantenroth and Melvin Way.

Still from Darst’s The Tourist: This Machine Makes Fascists

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Sept. 22–Jan. 6, 2019 41 Franklin St.; franklinstreetworks.org

DRAWING ROOMS

THE GLASS HOUSE will present newly commissioned, soundbased collages and drawings by Jennie C. Jones, who creates visual and sonic abstractions that mine histories of American Modernism, avant-garde music and their cultural, social and political shifts.

Sept. 1–Nov. 30 199 Elm St., New Canaan; theglasshouse.org

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FUN AT 40

Be a part of the LOFT ARTISTS ASSOCIATION’s fortieth birthday at the Stamford Museum’s Bendel Gallery with the opening of “Loft Artists at 40.” The retrospective will include a timeline of the collective’s history and feature works from current and past members.

Sept. 20–Oct. 27

39 Scofieldtown Rd.; loftartists.org

CONFRONTING RACISM

“Infrastructure of Silence,” opening at the FERNANDO LUIS ALVAREZ GALLERY, is a collection by sculptor Shelby Head that confronts the interconnections between slavery, race, poverty, wealth and segregation in the United States. As a citizen and an artist with shameful ancestral roots in the institutions of slavery, Head believes she has a shared responsibility to help confront the divisive and persistent effects of institutionalized racism on all Americans.

Sept. 22–Jan. 6, 2019 1 Museum Dr., Greenwich; brucemuseum.org

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PARANOID STATE

2017 winner Old Delhi Fruit Vendor; photo by Mike Harris

Oct. 13–Nov. 13 96 Bedford St.; alvarezgallery.com

The Talk, 2018

PHOTOGRAPHS COURTESY OF ARTISTS AND GALLERIES

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COLOR PALETTE

YOU’RE INVITED!

Harvesting Hope Celebration

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 18, 2018 200 Elm Street Stamford, CT 06901 5:30 - 9:00 pm Leading Sponsor:

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

Hope for Haiti works to build sustainable communities and eliminate poverty. We believe that there is always a path to a better life and we invite you to make an impact with us.

To purchase tickets, visit www.hopeforhaiti.com/harvestinghope

DO

Fact vs.

Fiction Understanding the latest intel on cholesterol control

M

ost wellness-minded adults know that testing cholesterol regularly and understanding the good (HDL) and bad (LDL) numbers is critical to living a heart-smart lifestyle. Yet cardiovascular health experts say myths persist about the best ways to keep those numbers in check.

Two Fairfield County cardiologists give us some updates on the latest in cholesterol science. —Beth Cooney Fitzpatrick

HEART SMART: A healthy diet of fish, veggies, nuts and olive oil supports good cholesterol.

EAT SMARTER

The link between diet and cholesterol continues to expand, as newer research on genetic influences refutes some commonly held beliefs about foods once deemed verboten.

Take eggs. Their bad reputation can be blamed on their whopping 185 milligrams of cholesterol per yolk. “But they are no longer the dietary demon we once thought they were,” says Dr. Sasanka Jayasuriya, a cardiologist affiliated with Greenwich Hospital, referring to research that suggests nutritionally dense eggs can increase good (HDL) cholesterol. “Like many things, I think they are okay if you eat them in moderation.”

Dr. Steven Kunkes, a cardiologist affiliated with Bridgeport Hospital, says many patients attempt to control their cholesterol by adopting restrictive eating plans such as

Paleo or Whole 30 diets.

“Initially, they may have some encouraging success, but with all these things the question is, are they sustainable for a lifetime?” he says.

Instead, he advocates eating a Mediterraneanstyle diet where fish, vegetables, nuts, whole grains and heart-healthy oils are plentiful.

What to avoid? “Red meat, processed foods and simple sugars like those found in ice cream, because of the role they play in managing cholesterol, and in obesity and diabetes,” says Dr. Kunkes. But even beef burgers and ice cream are okay now and then if your diet is otherwise heart smart, he says.

FAMILY MATTERS “For a long time, we’ve focused on lifestyle factors when talking about cholesterol,” says Dr. Kunkes. “While that is a contributing factor, we are looking at the role heredity plays more and more.” Indeed, Dr. Kunkes says about onethird of people with high levels of bad cholesterol can probably attribute their numbers solely to lifestyle factors while the other two-thirds tend to have heredity-based disorders.

Dr. Jayasuriya says many of her patients are shocked to discover their unhealthy cholesterol profiles even though they work out regularly and eat a balanced diet.

“Patients think they are immune because they don’t fit the image of what they think someone with high cholesterol should look like or behave. The reality is this can impact anyone—even

the young—which is why it’s important to start testing your cholesterol as young as in your twenties.”

NEW TREATMENT For a long time, statins, a class of drugs that block the action of a liver enzyme responsible for producing cholesterol, have been the gold standard for treating patients with cholesterol levels that are out of control. “It’s been shown conclusively that the majority are great for preventing heart attacks, vascular disease and strokes,” says Dr. Kunkes.

Yet, some patients complain the drugs cause muscle pain and other side effects that threaten compliance. “You would be surprised how many people stop taking their medication, but don’t tell their doctors,” says Dr. Jayasuriya, who urges patients to come clean if they are avoiding prescriptions. “These medications have been given to you for a real medical reason and the good news is we now have alternatives if you don’t like them.”

This includes a new class of drugs known as PCSK9 inhibitors, an injectable made of natural substances (unlike statins) that have been shown to have a powerhouse ability to lower LDL cholesterol levels. They are not a first-treatment option for patients, though. For one thing, Dr. Kunkes says the injectable meds are pricey. “They are terrific medications, but it’s difficult getting payment for them [from insurers].” As a result, statins remain a first best bet for most patients.

PHOTOGRAPHS: EGGS BY © JIRI HERA ER- STOCK.ADOBE.COM; OLIVE OIL BY ©ALENKADR - STOCK.ADOBE.COM

CHOLESTEROL NEWS

PRIMARY CARE

Open and

say ahh”

”

If you’ve ever wondered if all primary care relationships are the same, maybe it’s time to visit WCHN. Our doctors believe the best way to treat you is by getting to know you. That way they can create personalized plans designed to keep you enjoying the moments that make life wonderful.

Get to know a primary care physician at wchn.org/pcp | 1-800-210-1827

DO

Passing the

Hug Test H

shares his secrets on sales with heart

ow many times have you walked into a store or a restaurant and nobody greets you? Nobody says thank you and nobody cares about you?” Jack Mitchell asks. “This is what the book is all about.

How we care, and really hustle.”

Selling the Hug Your Customers Way, released this past June, is the latest book from the chairman of the Mitchells family of stores. He’s a fixture at Mitchells in Westport, where you can catch him with his tailor’s measuring tape around his neck as he helps customers when he’s not giving motivational speeches around the country.

Easy to laugh, Jack speaks often about caring and warmth. It’s no shocker that sales with a generous helping of soul is the topic of his third how-to tome.

Where his previous best-selling books, Hug Your Customers and Hug Your People, focused on building relationships with customers and employees, respectively, his latest release homes in on his signature process of getting to know customers to boost sales. He breaks his technique down into five stages: making the connection, decoding the mission, show and share, allowing the buy and the kiss goodbye— with a sixth bonus stage for good measure, since he’s all about going the extra mile.

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Sure, Jack is, first and foremost, a salesman since joining the family business in 1969, eleven years after his father, Ed, and mother, Norma, founded the first Ed Mitchells store in Westport. But what you don’t hear salespeople talk a lot about— perhaps because they’re too busy trying to strong-arm you into buying something—is creating a culture of caring. That’s the magic of the “hug” as Jack Mitchell puts it, which is any act that helps a customer realize that the salesperson actually cares about their needs and doesn’t just see them as a walking dollar sign. Even acts as small as helping customers bring bags to their cars or opening the store early so a customer can pick up his new suit before work creates an environment of trust and warmth.

Which is not to say that Mitchell is solely in the business of handing out free hugs.

Caring is good business, leading to repeat customers and long-lasting relationships— something he credits as essential to the brand’s success over the past sixty years.

As for why more of Mitchells’ hugging culture is needed right now, all you have to do is switch on the news. “Beyond selling, the warmth and the joy and the value of getting to know people in a personalized way and doing special things for them is really what I think a lot of the country needs,” Jack says. “The world needs more huggers than they do haters.” He understands the power of doing good. —Nathan Tavares

MAKE THE SALE IN ANY BUSINESS 1

MAKE A CONNECTION

“Learn how to make a great first connection that engages customers immediately and keeps them coming back.”

2

DECODE THE MISSION Determine what customers want and how to fulfill their needs. “Reading nonverbal signs,” says Jack, “is more important than merely asking, 'Can I help you?’ ” 3

SHOW AND SHARE

Instead of a hard sales pitch, engage the customer in a genuine conversation. It forms a personal connection.

4

ALLOW THE BUY

Establish trust and customers feel they’re making the decisions.

5

THE KISS GOODBYE

Make sure the customer leaves feeling valued and special. Follow up to create a customer for life.

Just in! Turn the page to see what's in store this fall.

CONTRIBUTED IMAGES

Jack Mitchell’s latest book

STOCK.ADOBE.COM

CELEBRATE YOUR WEDDING

We welcome wedding announcements together with candid photographs. Weddings should have a current Stamford 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: editor@stamfordmag.com Stamford Magazine 205 Main Street Westport, CT 06880

S TAMFORD Independent Living | Assisted Living | Memory Care 77 Third Street | AtriaStamford.com 204182

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2018 STAMFORD

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Pound for Pound Local boxing studio heads weigh in on reasons to get in the ring

BOXING EXPERTS

Paul Sandalo founder

Jess Cipriano owner 36

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Burn, Baby, Burn

“A high-intensity boxing workout can burn up to 1,000 calories in one hour,” says Jess Cipriano, owner of TITLE BOXING CLUB, with studios in Stamford and Milford. “Our signature routine incorporates thirty minutes of explosive interval training at the heavy bag segmented into eight three-minute rounds with just one minute of active rest in between, then finishes with a grueling round of core exercises that will push you to dig deep[er].” Does this count as cardio? A resounding yes!

The Power Hour, a combination of cardiovascular boxing and kickboxing designed to push past any fitness goal, leaves time for a well-rounded life outside of the gym. “Every workout is a personal training session in a group setting and no workout is ever the same.” Finally, a reason to step off the mindnumbing treadmill.

Paul Sandalo, founder of HEAVY HITTING BOXING AND FITNESS in Springdale, agrees. “People are looking for an alternative route to reach their fitness goals.

They become bored with their normal routines. Social media sites like Instagram showcasing celebrities and professional athletes choosing to box as their go-to workout excites people.

If done correctly, boxing works your full body.”

A Heavy Hitting client is getting her sweat on while learning technique.

FIGHT CLUB

Supporting youth one jab at a time

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aul Sandalo, founder of Heavy Hitting Boxing and Fitness, is passionate about supporting kids. To that end, he offers an after-school program and youth membership. He even sponsors children who can’t afford to go. “Kids are dealing with a lot of pressure, and sadly bullying is a part of their lives. Boxing builds confidence and self-esteem and teaches discipline. Boxing is also a great way for kids to learn mental focus in a safe and positive social environment.”

Stress Less

Is it any wonder the popularity of boxing studios is growing alongside America’s anxiety epidemic? In addition to the extreme endorphin release that will instantly elevate your mood, boxing also hits the mark on stress relief. Sandalo has a simple saying: “You don’t get in trouble for hitting a heavy bag. I have people from all walks of life come into my gym and use boxing as a positive release instead of taking out their anger, stress and aggression on the people they love.” Along with the physical, there are stress-reducing social benefits. “No one wants to be a number,” continues Sandalo. “Our members love the tight-knit family atmosphere of our boxing gym. They build friendships along with selfesteem, and they know if I don’t see them for a week, I’m picking up the phone and calling them.”

Cipriano says that’s what keeps members of Title Boxing Club coming back, too. “The focus of our workout is always the members—we meet them where they are, then work to guide, motivate and help them break through the physical, mental or emotional. We are their No. 1 fans.”

FIVE BENEFITS of BOXING 1

Aerobic conditioning 2

Improved agility and hand-eye coordination 3

More endurance 4

Endorphin rush 5

Increased confidence and mental focus

PHOTOGRAPHS: EXPERTS CONTRIBUTED; BOXER COURTESY OF HEAVY HITTING; GLOVES BY ©NIKOLAI SOROKIN - STOCK.ADOBE.COM

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et’s face it. You’ve wanted to break up with your gym for some time.

Your tired routines have done everything they will ever do for you; they are even stunting you fitness goals. Thanks to old-school boxing workouts making a mainstream comeback, you don’t have to be a Raging Bull to reap the benefits of the ring. Local boxing experts share what to expect at their studios and why getting down to fighting weight should become your next total body workout.

—Alyson Young Gregory

Rye Country Day School

2018 Admissions Open Houses

A coeducational day school of 900 students located in Rye, New York.

Lower & Middle School (PreK-Grade 8)

Sunday, October 14, 1p.m.

Middle & Upper School (Grades 5-12)

Sunday, October 28, 1p.m.

To RSVP visit www.RyeCountryDay.org/openhouse or call 914.925.4513

Probate & Estate Administration Serving as an executor or trustee carries with it important and sometimes complex responsibilities. ...we can help.

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MILLION MILES PHOTOGRAPHY • THE COLLECTIVE • ECO-FRIENDLY DESIGN

above: The Crossing by Bryan Dietz, part of the African Safari Collection, chronicles hundreds of thousands of wildebeests making their way across the Mara River in the northern Serengeti in Tanzania. below: Bryan and Deb Dietz

Act Local, Think Global D

eb Dietz and her husband, Bryan, both grew up in Stamford, but it wasn’t until 1999 at a mutual friend’s birthday party in upstate New York that they actually met. Early on in their relationship, they began traveling together, and when they married in 2004 a honeymoon in Italy set them on their current path. “Experiencing different cultures and seeing the beauty of another part of the world really inspired us to make travel a regular part of our lives,” says Deb. Bryan, who spent the early portion of his career as an advertising art director, later moved on to work in real estate with a Manhattan developer. But he continued 38

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to expand his skill as a photographer; along with Deb, his cameras were an integral part of the couple’s continuing adventures. The subjects always varied.

“It’s hard to choose our favorite destination,” Deb says when asked for the most memorable trip in what is now nearly two decades of travel. “Botswana and Patagonia are at the top of the list.”

Bryan’s keen eye for capturing the wild beauty they encountered along the way eventually became the genesis for a business. After Bryan gifted her one of his images for Mother’s Day in 2016, Deb decided it was time to go public with his creative work, and Million Miles

PHOTOGRAPH: THE CROSSING BY BRYAN DIETZ; PORTRAIT CONTRIBUTED

A well-matched pair of world travelers use their passion to create a business and then give back

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5,000 SQUARE FEET OF SHOPPING HEAVEN! CHANEL, PRADA, VALENTINO, GIVENCHY, HERMES, BALENCIAGA, ALEXANDER McQUEEN, SAINT LAURENT, PROENZA SCHOULER, BRUNELLO CUCINELLI, ISABEL MARANT, OSCAR de la RENTA Rag & Bone, Vince, Theory, Helmut Lang and much more!

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Mix Mastery in the Design District

above: Atacama Sunrise, from the Chilean collection. “We woke up at 5 a.m. to drive into the Andes and see the sunrise.” below: Birthday Leopard, African Safari collection. “Our guide tracked this male’s footprints and listened for warning calls of vervet monkeys that led us to him. We were able to go off road, sit under a tree and watch him watch us.”

Photography—today made up of the African Safari and Chilean collections—was born.

Interested buyers can find Million Miles online (millionmilesphotography.com) and scroll through a virtual catalog of some of Bryan Dietz’s landscapes and portraits of wildlife in their natural habitats. Recently the couple, who live with their two children in Shippan, has teamed up with The Collective (see sidebar), a Harbor Point venue for artists and dealers where Bryan’s work can be seen up close. It’s worth the trip, and there’s a bonus: Buyers of a Dietz photograph will simultaneously engage in a great cause. “ The most important aspect of the business for us is to give back to two areas in Africa that need help,” says Deb. The couple gives 10 percent of every purchase to the Anti-Poaching Foundation in South Africa, which protects rhinos and elephants in the Kruger National Park area, as well as to the Samburu Project, an organization that builds 40

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wells in Kenya to provide clean water and education about its use in that part of the continent.

Next on Bryan and Deb’s Million Miles itinerary is a trek among the ancient ruins and coastal vistas of Italy, and subsequent production of a new collection for the business.

When asked about their company name, Deb notes that it began as a tribute to their late and much beloved basset hounds, Millie and Miles.

Given the source of Bryan’s output and the distances the pair have covered, one can easily understand that the name has more than one meaning. —Judy Ostrow

ryan and Deb Dietz established a permanent gallery presence late last year when they signed on with twenty-seven other artists and dealers for a space in THE COLLECTIVE, an art and home furnishings business housed in a newly renovated industrial building on John Street. The creation of designer Pamela Frisoli (she also owns Trovare Home in Cos Cob) and antiquarian Robert DeFalco and his wife, Karen, offers smartly curated booths of merchandise that combine vintage furniture and accessories with modern and contemporary pieces, as well as new art work such as Dietz’s large scale photographic images. It’s a combination that has drawn buyers from the Manhattan interior design trade, as well as a local clientele looking for the right combination of clean lines and eclectic accents—all at attractive and competitive price points.

Karen DeFalco, who was at the desk when we visited, characterizes the shop: “When the space became available in the summer of last year, we bought and completely redid the interiors to create a flowing and well-lighted atmosphere for optimal displays. Pamela and Robert, with their combined years in the business, then attracted a group of dealers who can continually move and refresh their inventories.

The business name reflects a philosophy here—a collective of creative minds, with an eye for good design, and a love for what they do.” —JO

PHOTOGRAPHS BY BRYAN DIETZ

B

Engaged Minds.

Meaningful Connections.

Register for Open House!

Oct 14: Grades 6-11 Nov 4: PreK-Grade 5 kingschoolct.org/openhouse

Be inspired in a community that unites academic challenge, kindness, and personal growth.

King School is a co-ed college preparatory school educating students from 30 towns.

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7/10/18 11:44 AM

“We’ve always liked to travel... whether it’s into the City for an evening or sailing down the Coast for a month.

And no one makes traveling easier or more enjoyable than Rudy’s by getting us where we want to be on-time, every time.” ,

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Green Room The future of design is all about clean interiors and educated consumers—make a beautiful statement without a big footprint

S

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A sisal area rug is the natural choice.

Interior designer Susan MacLeod

The future is about consumers knowing how products are made, where they come from, and investing in furniture that will last a lifetime.

—Susan MacLeod

PHOTOGRAPHS BY NEIL LANDINO, JR.

USAN MACLEOD’s on a mission to help her clients create beautiful yet sustainable interiors that are hypoallergenic. After the Rowayton-based interior designer suffered an allergic reaction to a rug she installed in her own home, she did some research and was shocked to discover that everyday items like furniture, paints, carpeting and fabrics may contain volatile organic compounds. These VOCs can emit harmful vapors into the air and over time may cause long-term health problems including asthma and other serious illnesses. “There needs to be transparency in the furniture supply chain, which will help reduce harmful chemicals used in manufacturing and provide consumers with more environmentally safe furnishings,” says MacLeod, who recently received her certification as a Green Accredited Professional from the Sustainable Furnishings Council (SFC sustainablefurnishings.org). The designer explains that eco-friendly interiors are becoming more accessible as manufacturers move toward more environmentally friendly production and clients become committed to a healthier home. “The future is about consumers knowing how products are made, where they come from, and investing in furniture that will last a lifetime.”

Whether you’re renovating your home or building from the ground up, here are six easy ways to make your haven safe and environmentally sound. ­ —Malia McKinnon Frame

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Are you ready to cut through all this noise?

So are we. Let’s talk about what matters — your child.

Whitby was founded 60 years ago on the principle that each child must be seen, valued, and understood for achievement to happen, with heart. Our school has come a long way since then, but that core belief is still what drives us every day.

Is your standard for education as high as ours? Come say hello.

whitbyschool.org /cutthroughthenoise

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For a safer slumber, opt for organic, hypoallergenic sheets and blankets.

1

SHEETS AND BEDDING Being eco-conscious doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Start small by choosing natural, hypoallergenic organic sheets and bedding. When buying a mattress, choose one made of an eco-friendly foam or wool (a natural fire retardant), and check that it has an organic cotton covering. “Mattresses are often filled with toxic chemicals including flame retardants, formaldehyde and cotton pesticides, all which contribute to harmful VOC emissions,” says MacLeod.

2

FLOORING When refinishing floors, avoid toxic oil-based stains. MacLeod likes using Monocoat, a plant-based, VOC-free wood-floor stain with great durability and over forty color choices. “Many

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stains contain the toxic chemical polyurethane,” she says. If you’re replacing your floors, make sure they’re nontoxic, eco-friendly, and sustainably harvested, reclaimed or recycled.

This will ensure you’re not contributing to deforestation, a global crisis. “Your choices really can make a difference,” she says.

A truly beautiful wood floor doesn’t have to come at a cost.

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FURNITURE When purchasing new furnishings ask, “What’s it made of?” Look for wood that’s certified by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC), or opt for reclaimed material, recycled fiber and water-based wood finishes. Manufacturers like Lee Industries and Mitchell Gold are members of the SFC and make safe furnishings. Their sofa frames are earth-friendly; they use water-based

Reclaimed wood gives furniture a rustic appeal.

biodegradable glue; and their furniture is free of fireretardant chemicals. As far as cushion fillings, look for ones filled with wool or a nontoxic flame retardant.

MacLeod also recommends repurposing furnishings, either by reupholstering or repainting. “Vintage finds and antiques are back in vogue, and recycling furniture is a great way to be ecoconscious,” she says.

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PAINTS AND WALL COVERINGS Go for low-VOC paints (usually listed on the label) and wall coverings that are free from harmful solvents.

“I recommend Farrow & Ball and Benjamin Moore’s Aura or Natura lines of paint for their depth of color and their commitment to being environmentally conscious,” says MacLeod.

For wall coverings, she likes Phillip Jeffries grass cloths, which are made of bamboo, arrowroot, sisal and jute. These plants are easily replenished within the environment.

PHOTOGRAPHS BY NEIL LANDINO, JR.

FABRIC Because harmful chemicals are used to grow both natural fibers and create synthetic ones, textile production accounts for more toxic waste pollution of water than any other industry.

“Linen is my first choice of fabric, given its beautiful look, easy cultivation and low environmental impact because it uses very little water in production,” she says. Wool, organic cotton or recycled polyester are other good choices for fabric by the yard, and companies like Kravet, a member of the SFC, have a gorgeous selection.

Is your child struggling in school?

We can help.

Connecticut Connecticut 57West WestRocks RocksRoad Road 57 Norwalk, CT CT 06851 06851 Norwalk, 203-229-0465 203-229-0465 @WinstonPrepCT @WinstonPrepCT

Connecticut New York York New 57 126West WestRocks 17thStreet Street Road 126 West 17th Norwalk, New York, York,CT NY 06851 10011 New NY 10011 203-229-0465 646-638-2705 646-638-2705 @WinstonPrepCT @WPSNY @WPSNY

Connecticut New Jersey York Jersey New 57 126 901West West Route Rocks 17th 10East East Street Road 901 Route 10 Norwalk, 06851 New Whippany, York,CT NY NJ 10011 07981 Whippany, NJ 07981 203-229-0465 646-638-2705 973-500-6480 973-500-6480 @WinstonPrepCT @WPSNY @WinstonPrepNJ @WinstonPrepNJ

NOW ON LONG ISLAND Long Island New LongConnecticut Jersey York Island New LongNew Jersey Island York Long New Island Jersey Long Island 901 126 30Deforest Deforest West Route 17th 10Road Road East StreetRoad 901 30 Route 10Road East 30fl.

Deforest Road 240Deforest Madison Avenue, 14th 240 fl.

Madison Avenue, 240 fl.Madison Avenue, 57 West Rocks 126 West 17th Street 901 Route 10 East14th 30 Deforest Road14th fl.240 Madison Avenue 30 240 Madison Avenue, 14th Hills, 11746 BEGINNING New Dix Hills, Hills, Norwalk, York,NY NY NY 11746 CT 10011 06851 New Whippany, Dix Hills, New York, NJ11746 07981 NY 10011New Dix Hills, Whippany, NJ 07981New Dix New York,NY NY 10016 Whippany, NJ11746 07981 York,NY NY11746 10016 York, NY NY 10016 New York, NY 10016 Dix York, NY 10016 212-719-5598 x2213 646-638-2705 212-719-5598 203-229-0465 x2213 973-500-6480 212-719-5598 646-638-2705 x2213 212-719-5598 973-500-6480 x2213 646-869-4600 973-500-6480 646-869-4600 646-869-4600 646-869-4600 212-719-5598 x2213 646-869-4600 @WinstonPrepNJ @WPSNY @WinstonPrepLI @WinstonPrepNJ @WinstonPrepLI @WinstonPrepLI @WPTransitions @WPTransitions @WPTransitions @WinstonPrepCT @WPSNY @WinstonPrepNJ @WinstonPrepLI @WPTransitions SEPT 2018 @WinstonPrepLI @WPTransitions

APPLY NOW www.winstonprep.edu | facebook.com/winstonprepschool The Winston Preparatory School does not discriminate against applicants and students on the basis of race, color, or national or ethnic origin. The WPSLI campus is not associated with the Half Hollow Hills Central School District.

The Domestic Violence Crisis Center is committed to promoting the fundamental right of all individuals to be safe in their personal relationships. Our professional staff offers confidential services at no charge, including court and legal services, group and individual counseling, temporary shelter, housing services, children’s services, medical advocacy, multilingual services, PeaceWorks prevention education and a 24-hour hotline (1-888-774-2900).

DVCC is the only domestic violence agency serving the communities of Stamford, Norwalk, Westport, Darien, New Canaan, Wilton and Weston.

The Westy Guarantee…

WESTY guarantees that a Customer’s rent will not be increased for two years from the Agreement date.

WESTY guarantees that there will not be a registration or administration fee.

WESTY guarantees your total satisfaction. If you are not totally satisfied for any reason within the first seven days of signing your Agreement, Westy will refund all your money and void your Agreement.

777 Summer Street, Suite 400 • Stamford, CT 06901-1022 Phone: (203) 588-9100 5 Eversley Avenue • Norwalk, CT 06851-5821 Phone: (203) 853-0418 www.dvccct.org TOLL-FREE 24 HOUR HOTLINE: 1-888-774-2900

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2018 STAMFORD

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TIPS FOR THE PERFECT PACK • JEEP WRANGLER

Pack It Up Essential advice from those who spend almost as much time up in the air as they do on the ground BE CALM AND CARRY ON

GRAB A BAG

Travel tips are passed amongst frequent fliers like horse picks are passed around Belmont. A former NFL sideline reporter learned the secret of the “jacket in a bag” from a NatGeo photographer and shared it with us. It’s a pillow, a jacket, a sweater, a raincoat, the size of a small teddy bear and weighs even less.

Just like you never know when you’ll need a swimsuit, you never know when you’ll need a jacket.

Visiting Ireland this summer during a heatwave, the jacket was a lifesaver while on an excursion to the caves. It was 80 degrees outside, and only 20 degrees in the caves. The version from Uniqlo is affordable, stylish and the bag zips into the jacket. uniqlo.com

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We have yet to find a travel toiletry tube that doesn’t explode, spill or refuse to dispense the shampoo we have so carefully dripped into it. The downside of buying travelsize products at the drugstore is that they likely don’t sell your favorite shampoo or face wash. But Europeans do travel amenities right.

Nuxe has had a cult following in France for decades; its Huile Prodiguese is the No. 1 seller for hair, face and body. Buy a few—no more rushing around looking for tiny toiletries at the last minute. Check feelunique.com for Nuxe products.

Sephora.com also sells great travel sets.

WRAP IT UP

A good scarf is a must-have for every journey. On a chilly plane, it’s a blanket. It can dress up a T-shirt or offer just the right amount of warmth to take a sundress from day to night. Katrina Bischoff, co-owner of Back 40 Mercantile in Old Greenwich, says she never travels without a scarf and loves the Late Sunday Afternoon brand. For every scarf the company sells, it donates a blanket to a child in foster care.

Back 40 or online at latesundayafternoon .com —Kim-Marie Evans

PHOTOGRAPHS CONTRIBUTED

» STAMFORDMAG.COM

Packing cubes make it easy to see what’s inside without emptying your bag.

We like mesh cubes from Magellan’s. Use a cube for each day or type of clothing, roll the contents tightly and they won’t wrinkle. You’ll also be able to fit twice the volume you would without a cube. And it’s easy to stay organized though your trip since instead of rummaging through piles of clothing, you can sort by cube. magellans.com

GO SMALL

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Not all suitcases are created equal. The luggage company Away has perfected the art of the carryon. Under the handle is a battery-powered charging station with two USB ports, so you’ll never be left searching the gate area for an outlet again. The battery is easily removeable, so it’s TSA compliant.

Choose the model with the exterior pocket for easy access to a tablet or anything you’d like to keep handy. The bags are only sold online. awaytravel.com

Join Us to Raise Breast Cancer Awareness “Go Pink” Party at the Mall Paint the Town Pink Kick-off Event, Hosted by Ann Taylor

Monday, October 1 at 5:30 p.m.

Stamford Town Center, 100 Greyrock Place Support PTTP while you shop! Join us for an evening of discounts and refreshments.

Girlfriends Luncheon Friday, October 12 at 12 p.m.

Italian Center of Stamford, 1620 Newfield Avenue Reservations required

Fashion Show Thursday, October 18 5:30 p.m. cocktails, 6:00 p.m. fashion show Lord and Taylor, 110 High Ridge Road, Stamford

Breast cancer survivors and their doctors show off the latest fashions!

Remember, if you’re a woman over 40, don’t forget your annual mammogram. It’s the best way to detect breast cancer early — long before a lump is felt in your breast.

For more information, call 203.276.5900 or visit PaintTheTownPinkStamford.org.

GO JEEP WRANGLER SAHARA Entry price: About $30,000 Drivetrain: 3.6-liter V6, 285 horsepower All-wheel-drive

Fun Mobile

Jeep’s

The famed Wrangler is all new, but the message is timeless

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W

hen was the last time you’ve been considered a hell-raiser? Or maybe just unruly, perhaps a scamp? Now you’re plying the Post Road in an opulent SUV (they’ve all gone posh, haven’t they?) and wondering about your inner devil.

Folks at the club will thus understand should you pull up in an open-air Jeep Sahara with the front doors removed, all the better to air out your life and pursue some shenanigans.

The venerated Wrangler is not the cheapest Jeep, nor is it the most practical. But, gee, do its owners feel a devotion to the friendly knockabouts.

With the latest JL version, Jeep has cranked out an incarnation of the rowdy old warhorse. Among the new blessings is a soft-top version that can get into full blue-skies mode in a matter of seconds.

It rides far more smoothly now than in days of yore, although the bounce is there. All the modern electronics and

computer connectivity are available, including a hearty (optional) Alpine stereo system. If all that fresh air gets too hot, the Wrangler has an amazing air-conditioning system.

There are four models, starting with the Sport in the low 30s, going up to the serious off-roader, the Rubicon, in the 40s. But the basic Sport delivers this car’s raison d’être—the party-animal thrill of an elemental fun-bucket. According to our dealer, it’s selling to Wall Street types as well as recent college grads.

The four-door model can comfortably accommodate two adults in the second row. An eight-speed automatic is standard, but tough campaigners hitting the beach will want the six-speed stick.

Of course, if you want to be all Connecticut Sensible, then you’d opt for the hardtop model; taking off that top merely requires the removal of eight bolts and the assistance of a friend to remove the 60-pound lid. But then you are really free. — Chris Hodenfield

PHOTOGRAPH CONTRIBUTED

EPA Mileage Rating: 18 city/23 highway

The Women’s Business Development Council’s Annual Gala Luncheon and Awards Ceremony Title Sponsor

There has never been a more critical time to support women business owners.

Friday, October 12, 2018 Hyatt Regency Greenwich, 1800 East Putnam Avenue, Old Greenwich, CT 11:00AM Registration, Networking and Raffle | 12:00PM Lunch and Awards Ceremony The Women’s Business Development Council provides women with the training and resources to start and operate businesses and accelerate their growth.

Nearly 20,000 women have worked with the Women’s Business Development Council to launch and expand over 5,300 businesses, representing more than 4,200 jobs in Connecticut.

Purchase tickets at www.ctwbdc.org Follow on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and Instagram #ctwbdc

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MEXICUE • SOURS

Fusion Infusion

clockwise from top left: Poblano mac & cheese; a Grapefruit Paloma cocktail; a margarita; pico de gallo; kale bowl with Brussels sprouts, sweet potatoes, pepitas, corn, arugula and Cotija cheese; salsa verde; and an open-faced wild rock shrimp taco with slaw, sliced mango and creamy chipotle

B

ack in the day, inventive chefs came up with Latin fusion. Around the same time, they began experimenting with blends of Mediterranean traditions. Terms like Cal-Asian are now part of your foodie lingo. And although this trend to blend continues, it would seem safe to say that innovative combinations are fewer and harder to find.

We are wrong. Mexicue, now in Stamford, delivers a menu that fuses Mexican cuisine and American Southern culinary tradition, including barbecue.

Who would have thought? We’re glad someone did.

Mexicue has a storied past, starting eight years ago, when the concept was housed in a food truck plying the by va l e r i e fost e r

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streets of Manhattan and Brooklyn. It was popular then, feeding the business lunch bunch, tourists, festival fans and concert-goers who sought it out. Then came NYC’s crackdown on food trucks, and Mexicue moved to its first of three Manhattan brick-and-mortar eateries.

We’re so happy they looked north to open their fourth location in the site that

PHOTOGRAPH: COURTESY OF MEXICUE

Mexicue makes its presence known with a bold menu that blends two culinary traditions and adds flavor and fun to the Harbor Point scene

table

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STAMFORD MAGAZINE

The go-to online guide to the always bustling Stamford dining scene

With more than 130 restaurants serving everything from American to Asian Fusion, there’s something to satisfy every craving STAM FO RD MAG.CO M/ RESTAU R A N TS

CALLING ALL RESTAURANTS: For more information on how to enhance your online restaurant feature, please contact ELLYN WEITZMAN AT 203.571.1644

PHOTOGRAPHS: COURTESY OF MEXICUE

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top row: Interior of Mexicue with funky rustic chairs and square tabletops, an open-face lobster taco, wild rock shrimp taco in a corn tortilla and tuna ceviche in a romaine boat center: A Grapefruit Paloma cocktail, Mexicue cofounder Thomas Kelly, a traditional margarita bottom: Pulled pork tacos, charred jalapeño guacamole with chips, three burrito bullets

once housed Paloma. Offering casual eats with authentic, down-home cooking techniques, Mexicue should be on your go-to list for meant-to-be-shared meals that appeal to all ages.

The location, one of the best in Stamford, sets Mexicue apart. In a breezy, bustling area with perfect views of the harbor, Mexicue’s large dining room opens to a dockside outdoor patio that is shaded with umbrellas. Upstairs the scene is lively, with deep-cushioned chairs and sofas on an outdoor deck, the picture-perfect place to sip a tequila—forty-three varieties on the menu— or interesting cocktails, like a smoky margarita or Grapefruit Paloma.

Once you are ready to begin sampling, consider beginning with two from the starter section, the poblano queso and charred jalapeño guacamole. Both are served with thick, crunchy chips that hold well under deep dipping. The queso is exactly as it should be, cheesy gooeyness with a hint of heat thanks to the poblano. Given the meal ahead, we opted to pass on adding burnt ends brisket chili, as offered, as it surely would add smoky complexity to this opening dish.

The guacamole, too, is lovely and thick, with welcome crunch from the added onions. We had ours mild, though it did come with a slight kick that hits after the first bite, a sign of a properly seasoned dish. Suggestion: Order a side of watermelon radish chips. A variety of daikon, this radish is a root vegetable that is crisp and succulent with a peppery note that adds depth to the creamy avocado.

From the bowl section, we selected kale with creamy chipotle. Lightly dressed, it did not disappoint. The crunch of the greens are brightened by fresh corn and Brussels sprouts, and the added pepitas make this atypical salad a

sunny transition to the tacos, sliders and burrito bullets that round out the menu.

(You can make a meal out of the bowls section. Tuna poke next time!)

There are eleven taco varieties, which are served in portion sizes that are easy to share—typically two or three per person are suggested. And after our first foray, we can see why the tacos are the reason fans of Mexicue return for more.

Consider the pulled pork, smoky and tender, seasoned with creamy chipotle. Or the tuna ceviche, fresh and bright thanks to the citrus vinaigrette. It’s hard to resist lobster, and here it’s sweet, accented with chipotle butter. The charred brisket is balanced with slaw, salsa verde and Cotija, the white and salty Mexican cheese that gives this beef preparation its authenticity. Still hungry? Order the wild rock shrimp, a tad spicy but its heat is balanced by sliced mango.

(News flash: For anyone watching their carbs and gluten, you can order your tacos, normally prepared with organic corn tortillas, either in glutenfree tortillas or romaine boats.)

To complete our meal, the table shared two burrito bullets. The Jamburrito— chicken and chorizo jambalaya with slow-simmered black beans, pico de gallo, Cotija and brown rice wrapped in a flour tortilla—was worth loosening our belts. As was the burnt ends brisket chili accompanied by house-pickled peppers, a perfect mélange of smoke, heat and savory crisp.

Will we return? We already have.

Twice. The atmosphere alone is so hard to resist. But what brings us back repeatedly is the fresh ingredients, which the chefs at Mexicue know how to make sing, with textural components and interesting pairings. We hope Mexicue calls Stamford home for years to come.

MEXICUE

15 Harbor Point Rd. 203-588-1764 mexicue.com

CUISINE

Mexican & Southern American

HOURS

Mon.–Thu., 11:30 a.m.–11 p.m.

Fri., 11:30 a.m.–midnight Sat.–Sun., 11 a.m.–midnight

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2018 STAMFORD

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EAT

Something’s Brewing considered the Champagne of beer

M

ove over IPAs. Sour beers are making a mark. Popular at Rothbard Ale + Larder, the boutique European gastropub in Westport, and among aficionados like Renzo Kian-Kubota, artisan beer specialist at Harry’s Wine and Liquor Market in Fairfield, this old European alebrewing tradition is inspiring American brewers to expand on tradition.

Two Roads in Stratford is opening a sour facility this fall, where they’ll experiment with open fermentation and barrel aging, sources of the complex flavors and aromas, and soft, sparkling textures found in sours. At their best, sours are the Champagne of beer.

New to them? Buy a selection and throw a tasting party. If your palate runs too sweet, try Flemish Red Ale, with roasty malt flavors and cherry notes from aging in oak barrels. If you like tart, pick up Berliner Weiss.

Hazy blonde, light bodied and fizzy, it is refreshing and tangy. A German Gose, with its spice and salinity, is an acquired taste. A Belgian Oude Gueuze (“oude” is your hint it’s unsweetened), hazy amber and lemonscented, is tart, earthy, with a tannic finish. —Elizabeth Keyser

JOE FARRELL proprietor, Rothbard Ale + Larder, Westport

RENZO KIAN-KUBOTA beer specialist, Harry’s Wine & Liquor Market, Fairfield

JOE’S PICKS FOR EUROPEAN SOURS

RENZO’S PICKS FOR AMERICAN SOURS

1809 Berliner Weisse Dr. Fritz Briem, Germany

Farmhouse Ale Plan Bee Farm Brewery, Poughkeepsie, New York

Rodenbach Grand Cru Flemish Red Brouwerij Rodenbach, Belgium Abbaye de Saint Bon Chien, Brasserie des Franche Montagnes (BFM), Switzerland Belgian Gueuzeries Wild Beer Co., U.K. Sour'ir De Mortagne Picobrouwerij Alvinne, Belgium Leipziger Pineus Gose Bayerische Bahnhof, Germany

Poive Raz Springdale by Jack’s Abby Brewing, Framingham, Massachusetts Gin Barrel Saison Hermit Thrush Brewery, Brattleboro, Vermont Rosé is Bae Paradox Beer Co., Divide, Colorado Agrestic American Wild Ale Firestone Walker Brewing Company, Paso Robles, California

Elizabeth Keyser has written about beer, wine and spirits for newspapers, magazines and blogs.

She has sat on the Yankee Brew News tasting panel and judged craft and European brew contests.

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A WORD ON SOURS A drinktionary for your next tasting

BERLINER WEISSE

“Champagne of the north”, light, fruity, mildly sour.

BOTTLE CONDITIONED

Traditional method of re-fermenting beer in the bottle, creating natural carbonation.

BRETTANOMYCES (“BRETT”)

Wild yeast produces complex floral to funky flavors; during barrel aging, it creates acetic acid, giving beer crisp acidity.

FLANDERS RED ALE

Brown ale fermented a second time in oak casks up to two years, creating lactic acid that adds sour flavor.

FRUIT LAMBIC

Whole, crushed or juiced fruit— traditionally cherries, raspberries, black currants or peaches— are added to the cask for secondary fermentation, then bottle conditioned.

GOSE

Pronounced “go-sah,” it is brewed with salt and coriander, and bottle conditioned.

GUEUZE

Pronounced “gooze,” this “Champagne of Belgium” is a sparkling lambic brewed without fruit that ferments in koolships, then ages in casks for a year.

The aged lambic is mixed with a younger lambic, and bottle conditioned.

KOOLSHIP

Large, shallow, open vats expose the cooling wort to microorganisms, which inoculate it, creating complex flavors.

LAMBIC

Traditional Brussels sour wheat beer based on two-stages of wild fermentation, producing sweet malt and sour lactic blend, then fermented in old casks. Brewers mix aged and young lambics. S

PHOTOGRAPHS: PORTRAITS COURTESY OF EXPERTS; BEER GLASSES BY ©LESZEK CZERWONKA - STOCK.ADOBE.COM

In time for fall, find out why sours are

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SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2018 STAMFORD

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Fınance Fıx BACK TO BASICS

O

nly Utah, Alabama, Missouri, Texas and Virginia require a personal-finance class in order to graduate from high school, reports the Center for Financial Literacy. The group graded states by their ability to “produce financially literate high school graduates.” Connecticut and MARTIN MAFFEI nine other states flunked. Our state ranks highest in per capita income, and we stand as the hedge-fund capital of the world; yet, for many of us, our understanding of money matters is lacking.

“The wealthiest clients are often the least equipped and knowledgeable to run their own portfolio,” contends Martin Maffei, vice president/financial adviser at UBS Wealth Management in Stamford. “It’s often those who earn less that we see making an effort to educate themselves and figure out how to maximize each dollar.”

What’s the most common mistake? “Not saving enough,” says Maffei, who notes that half of his job is educating clients. “Finance 101 teaches the basic power of compounding.” Nudging up your savings by just 1 percent can generate hundreds of thousands of dollars over time. Maffei met recently with a 40-yearold professional who earns about $400,000 a year and has about $200,000 in an old retirement account, with no additional savings. The client is accustomed to a high standard of living that includes private school

WHAT MOTIVATES YOU? “Fear and greed are the two biggest factors in investing. There’s a big fear factor, and ignorance drives that fear,” says Martin Maffei. The smart plan, then, is to become financially literate.

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Master the basics of personal finance for long-term success

tuition for two children. “He’s lost sight of putting money away,” Maffei says. “A lot of folks making a good living tend to be pretty comfortable with their money and don’t necessarily keep a close eye on the budget. No one really thinks, ‘I’m going to stop getting a paycheck someday.’ But it happens.” By age 65, the man’s retirement portfolio is projected to reach about $650,000. “Now, assume he saves 5 percent annually and gets an employer match. It could reach in excess of $2 million.”

Most courses on personal finance advocate saving automatically, especially in employer retirement plans in which money is deducted before taxes.

“You will barely notice a change in your paycheck,” he says, “and you will be taking advantage of free money from the employer match.”

Before you develop a personal finance curriculum, assemble all of your statements that relate to money.

What you understand goes in one pile. What you don’t, goes in another—then learn about it. Break it into pieces. “Try to do a bit each day, even if you don’t implement it the whole time,” Maffei says. “If you work with a financial institution and you have a financial adviser, that should be your best resource, rather than you trying to drive through the internet or the whole universe.”

Financial literacy includes making the most of work opportunities and being prudent with spending, debt and taxes. “You tend to lose 2 percent of performance a year in a taxable account if you’re not managing efficiently for taxes,” Maffei says. Review tax planning, tax-efficient holdings and tax-loss harvesting. Next, share. “Get the family involved. If one spouse is the main income earner, and the other doesn’t have a clue, that can create problems.” If your mate were to divorce you, lose a job, or worse, would you know your balance sheet, asset level and location of your assets? Learn now. S

NEEDCHANGES TO THE KNOW NOW

ONLINE RESOURCES Whether you hope to brush up on personal finance basics or to dig deep into calls, puts and alternative investments, education is but a few clicks away. Check out these five online resources:

1 Coursera coursera.org/learn/ family-planning 2 CNN Money money.cnn.com/pf/ money-essentials 3 Khan Academy khanacademy.org/ economics-financedomain/core-finance 4 Morningstar morningstar.com/ cover/classroom.html 5

Udemy udemy.com/thecore-four-of-personalfinance-basics

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DadAboutTown MORNING CARBS

by kevin mckeever

Buzz on Bagels M

y mixed-doubles tennis team rotates who brings the snacks for our home matches, and one Sunday morning, I was tasked with bringing bagels.

When I arrived with a bagful of cellophane wrapped, presliced ones, fresh off the supermarket shelf, you would have thought I had instead offered them cyanide capsules with a schmear.

I confess: The only bagels I knew growing up came out of the freezer. Lender’s Bagels were a staple on my mother’s grocery list and at least it was a local brand of sorts, originating in New Haven in 1927 before “Big Food” bought them in the mid-1980s. I at least knew enough not to bring those before I made my tennis team purchase that morning but, honestly, I just wasn’t awake or patient enough to stand in line for the real thing.

The absolute, must-eat bagel for anyone in Stamford craving the “Jewish English muffin,” in the words of the late Murray Lender, president and marketing genius behind the frozen pucks, comes from Liz Sue Bagels in Bull’s Head. (Or is it Liz-Sue? Lizsue? I’ve seen it all those ways.) While the store opened in 1979, my real introduction to it came in the 1990s. The older Jewish couple my girlfriend (now wife) shared a house with would invite me over for a Sunday morning nosh.

They sliced them not in half, but in sideways thirds, giving you more bagel to convey the lox, capers and a spritz of lemon into your salivating mouth. And while a “plain” is just

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as tasty as an “everything,” don’t neglect the “classic onion” with your morning coffee. It’s excellent for keeping those chatty coworkers or nagging kids at bay.

My tennis team, I later learned, leans heavily toward the crusty-on-the-outside, chewy-on-the-inside delights of Village Bagels in Glenbrook. They are good, but don’t take my word for it; ask my daughter, Megan, watcher of every baking show The Food Network has to offer. While she does occasionally stop by Liz Sue, her go-to for a quick, inexpensive bite after school comes from the Village people. (Note: Her younger brother, Calvin, who lives on carbs and sugar alone—bless his teenage metabolism—has no bagel preference as long as it comes sliced and slightly toasted.)

This high school talk does remind me of a brief flirtation I had with the now departed The Hot Bagel, formerly of Ridgeway Shopping Center. Well, I had a brief flirtation with a fellow teenager who worked there when I wasn’t ripping covers off unsold romance novels at the old Waldenbooks around the corner. Then she left and The Hot Bagel became a cinnamon-bun store, and my love—not to mention my love handles—were never the same.

If you must go the supermarket route, there is no shame in heading to the South End (sorry, Millennials, Harbor Point) and stopping by Fairway. When in that part of Stamford, I like to pick up a half dozen of its

freshly baked bagels (regular or mini) along with some Manhattan Special Pure Espresso Coffee Soda because that is the only way to kick-start a sleepy Monday at the computer.

By the way, my tennis team has realized my strengths and weaknesses, and has never again asked me to provide the bagels.

Instead, I'm usually assigned to bring the S post-game booze.

Kevin McKeever is a freelance writer and national award-winning newspaper columnist.

His work has appeared in publications and landfills worldwide.

You can reach him at kevin@writeonkevin.com.

PHOTOGRAPHS: PORTRAIT BY ANDREW SULLIVAN; BAGELS BY DAVID P. SMITH- STOCK.ADOBE.COM

On store-bought baked goods, Liz Sue vs. Village Bagels and memories of The Hot Bagel at the Ridgeway Shopping Center

Fall Events at Mill River Park OKTOBERFEST IN THE PARK

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HALLOWEEN PARTY

SATURDAY SEPTEMBER 29 1:00 – 9:00 PM

SATURDAY OCTOBER 27 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM

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SPONSORED BY HALF FULL BREWERY

Live music, seasonal beer & beer garden, food trucks, and lawn games competition.

Bounce amusement zone, pumpkin patch, pony rides, creepy nature crafts, mini golf, food trucks, marshmallow roasting & fall treats.

Trick or treat down the West River Path, decorate pumpkins and dance the Monster Mash with friends. Face painting & glitter tattoos!

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VOWS I do!

by c o l l e e n c r o w l e y

JESSICA ANN KOONTZ & HUNT EASTWICK BARADA

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PHOTOGRAPHS BY BROOKE ALLISON PHOTOGRAPHY

D

uring a break from graduate school, Jessica was invited to an office holiday party by a close friend. There, she met Hunt, who also worked there.

Jessica and Hunt instantly connected, and for the next two years, they stayed in touch despite the distance between them. After Jessica graduated, the two dated, and eventually moved in together. It was during a late summer evening stroll through the garden at Homestead Inn-Thomas Henkelmann that Hunt proposed.

Fr. Nick Punch officiated the ceremony at St. John’s Church in Darien, during which the couple drank from a silver chalice and a pair of Murano goblets, all family heirlooms. A reception at the Stamford Yacht Club followed, where the newlyweds surprised their guests with a choreographed first dance.

Jessica is the daughter of Rose Marie and C. Lennis Koontz of Darien. She graduated from Loyola University Maryland and George Washington University.

She is a national sales manager at Daymon in Stamford. Hunt is the son of Sandi and John Barada of Mt. Pleasant, South Carolina, formerly of New Canaan.

He received his bachelor’s degree from Keene State College and is currently completing a graduate degree at UConn. He is a promotional manager at Philips in Stamford.

After a honeymoon in Italy, Jessica and Hunt returned home to Stamford. S

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8 1 The happy couple 2 The bride’s parents, Carl Lennis and Rose Marie Koontz, with the bride and groom 3 The Sweet Lisa’s wedding cake 4 Stephanie Masiello Schuette, Brittany Wainacht Hasak, Shelby Barada, Lindsay Barada Bayley, Julia Mastantuono Krauland, Emily Elms 5 Chase Barada, Jake and Lindsay Bayley, the bride and groom, Sandi and John Barada, Shelby Barada 6 Standing: Chase Barada, Christopher Schipper, Nicholas Sclafani; sitting: Zachary Gutierrez, the groom, Jake Bayley 7 Family heirlooms used during the ceremony 8 The first dance

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2018 STAMFORD

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SAVE THE DATE

Thursday, November 29 6:30 – 9:30 p.m.

2018

Photos by Melani Lust

Please join us as we honor the nonprofit and philanthropic work of our community heroes.

Introducing Community Impact Awards, honoring two extraordinary nonprofits Presented by Fairfield County’s Community Foundation

Community Leader Sponsor

Event Host Sponsor

Become a Sponsor

Join us for

For more information & participant opportunities please contact Laurinda Finelli at 203.571.1614 • laurindafinelli@moffly.com

Moffly Media’s 11th Annual Light a Fire awards reception and cocktail party at King School

SCENE Stealers

LAUREL HOUSE • PHOTOGRAPHS BY MOFFLY MEDIA’S BIG PICTURE/BOB CAPAZZO

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bout 300 supporters of Laurel House, which provides resources and opportunities for people living with mental illness to lead fulfilling and productive lives, gathered for the Stamford-based agency’s annual Succeeding in the Community Dinner Dance at the Delamar in Greenwich. All enjoyed outdoor cocktails, followed by dinner and the 2018 Champion of Recovery Award presentation to Dr. Lloyd Sederer, chief medical officer of the New York State Office of Mental Health.

Recognitions also went to Town Champions Amy Bell of Darien, Kim Meier of Westport, Amy Wilkinson of New Canaan and Cathy and Neal Konstantin of Rowayton. »

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1 Stella and Willard Miley 2 Paige Patrick Nelli, Evan Meier, Grace Patrick Nelli, Kim and Alex Meier, Robert and RJ Patrick Nelli 3 Andrea Fountain, Christel Truglia, Anne Fountain 4 Greg Pauletti, Kendall Lyons, Matt Monroe 5 Colin and Rosa Thompson, Martha and Dr. Stephen Rutkowski 6 Jessica Mazur, Ulziimaa Ganzorig, Keri Mate, Maori Hughes 7 Anne Thaxter, Ken DellaRocco 8 Mary Nelson, Michael Autore, Susan Marks 9 CJ and Dana Evans

( for more party pics visit stamfordmag.com )

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1 Peter Smith, Erin Kelly 2 Donna and Tom Berta, Cheryl Palmer 3 Amy Wilkinson receives her award from Dennis O’Connor 4 Cathy and Neal Konstantin 5 Lindsay Weiman, Gene Autore, Jeff Autore, Lauren McCann, Kathryn Ingrassia 6 Sandy and Caroline Gordon, Stephanie Raia and Peter Appleby 7 Kay and Ray Sementini, Marianna Sarkissova 8 Linda Autore announces the awards 9 Amy Bell, Lisa Joyce, Diane Schlinkert

PHOTOGRAPHS BY MOFFLYMEDIA’S BIG PICTURE/MELANI LUST

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THE EMCEE

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awards 2018

and the winner is...

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Wednesday, September 12 at the Palace Theatre in Stamford Brian Sawyer

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| | PA L A C E T H E AT R E | |

Hit Makers

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he Palace Theatre welcomed the musical group Earth, Wind & Fire for its ninth annual Concert Gala, which raised $165,000 to support the organization and its arts education programs.

During a reception that preceded the concert, arts patrons came together to applaud the presentation of the Arts Ovation Award to SL Green Realty Corp. This honor is presented annually to an individual or corporation that has demonstrated a commitment to the arts through philanthropic efforts and through service to the Palace Theatre.

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5 1 Mary Radcliffe, president of Greenwich Symphony 2 Don Hamilton, Claudia Silver, president of the Young Artists Philharmonic 3 Greg Robbins, executive director of Young Artists Philharmonic; Sara Fears of Steinway & Sons; Frank Gaudio, president and CEO of First Bank of Greenwich 4 Greenwich First Selectman Peter Tesei 5 Melinda Chen, Marcia Hamilton, Lenny de Csepel, Maria Stich

| | YOUNG ARTISTS PHILHARMONIC | |

Beautiful Music

F

or fifty-eight years, the Young Artists Philharmonic has provided young musicians (grades 3–12) in Fairfield and Westchester counties with world-class musical training.

The orchestra is dedicated to transforming lives through music.

This year at a lovely event at the Water Club in Greenwich, the organization honored Mary Radcliffe, president of the Greenwich Symphony, for her dedication to music, youth and her incredible support of the Young Artists Philharmonic. Âť

PHOTOGRAPHS BY HAPPYHAHA AT WAHSTUDIO

1 Lisa Colangelo, Darlene Costantini, Flavia Mornaghi, Sandy Goldstein, Jami Sherwood, Barbara Zichichi, Stacey Cohen, Lori Mercede, Laurie Cingari, Robyn Whittingham, Linda Hampton, Kristin Levinson 2 Michael Moran, executive director, Palace Theatre; Mayor David Martin; Michael Widland, board chairman, Palace Theatre 3 Earth, Wind & Fire on stage

Join us for a retro evening of fun and fundraising!

Thursday, October 11, 2018 6:30 - 9:30 p.m.

The Landing 232 Harbor Drive Stamford Visit bartlettarboretum.org/flowerpower for tickets and sponsorship information.

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| | S O U N D W AT E R S | |

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1 Molly Baxter, Fred Hahn 2 Leigh Shemitz, Dave Price, Lori and Doug Bora 3 Sara Tucker, Mark Rosenbloom, Karen Kelly, Kathleen Bordelon 4 Senator Richard Blumenthal, Fran Pastore and Steven Mueller 5 Dominick and Lisa Cingari 6 May and Marc Jaffe 7 Polly and Rob Morrow 8 Ted and Erin Ferrarone 9 Tamu and John Lucero 10 Bud Grebey, Carla Cinti, Scott Mitchell 11 Jen and Dan Forgie, Carl and Amy Glad, Andy and Amy George

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gorgeous, balmy evening at the Riverside Yacht Club made for a perfect setting for SoundWaters’ Tall Ships Ball: Destination Paradise. During the twenty-third annual festive dinner and dance—think tiki bars, palm trees and pineapples—about 400 supporters enjoyed island music and exotic foods from Polynesia.

They also reaffirmed their commitment to protect Long Island Sound through education and action by raising more than $380,000 for the scholarship funds that will ensure that all students can grow and learn with SoundWaters. »

PHOTOGRAPHS BY AVIVA MALLER

Natural Habitat

er p p u Farm to Table S THURSDAY SEPTEMBER 20 7:00PM

Welcome autumn at our signature, seasonally-inspired Farm-to-Table Supper,

this year featuring celebrated Chef Francois Kwaku-Dongo.

A James Beard nominee, Chef Kwaku-Dongo cooked for Wolfgang Puck at the acclaimed California restaurants Chinois on Main, Granita, and Postrio, and was elevated to Executive Chef at the iconic Spago. Most recently, Chef Kwaku-Dongo was Executive Chef at L’ Escale on Greenwich Harbor.

The evening’s menu

will showcase

Chef Kwaku-Dongo’s inspirations with SPONSORED BY

farm-fresh cuisine for the most discerning palates, paired with an exquisite selection of global wines.

Proceeds from this exceptional dining experience support the mission and programs of the Stamford Museum & Nature Center, and are tax-deductible to the extent allowable by law.

Chef Francois Kwaku-Dongo Executive Chef of The Roger Sherman Inn

Advanced reservations required RSVP 203 977-6536 stamfordmuseum.org/farmtotable2018

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1 Karen Brown, Jennifer Lapine 2 CLC CEO Marc Jaffe on stage with Valerie Simpson and Paul Shaffer 3 CLC preschool children take the stage 4 Jerry Hajdarovic, Margaret Keane, Valerie Simpson, Paul Shaffer 5 Michael Pollard, Gloria DePina, Mayor David Martin 6 Susan Johnson, Tami and Henry Greig, Randy Kinder 7 Jackie Alexander, Bruce Blasnik, Julius Alexander 8 Thasunda Ducket, Marc Jaffe, Margaret Keane 9 CLC chairman Robert J. Mattis, Jr., Richard Evanko, Jr., Marc Jaffe 10 Alan and Peggy Kalter, Sharon White

PHOTOGRAPHS CONTRIBUTED

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inger-songwriter Valerie Simpson and bandleader Paul Shaffer headlined a benefit concert at the Palace Theatre that raised more than $450,000 that will support early childhood programs at the Children’s Learning Centers of Fairfield County (CLC). Preschoolers from CLC’s Head Start program kicked off the evening’s entertainment.

Simpson and Shaffer took the stage following a reception and fundraiser for the Stamford-based nonprofit. CLC honored Synchrony Financial CEO Margaret Keane with the inaugural CLC Knobby Award, named for long-standing CLC supporters William and Audrey Knobloch. The agency also inducted Richard Evanko Jr., a vice president at First County Bank, into its alumni hall of fame. »

MEET

OCTOBER 20 21 2 0 1 8 SATURDAY 10AM –4PM SUNDAY

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FEATURING BILLY BLANKS JR., DANCE IT OUT

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1 Reaching the finish line 2 Jump the Gunn 3 Done! 4 Mike Cotella and Melissa Rhodes flank a winner. 5 More runners 6 On your mark!

7 Mayor David Martin, Maureen and Jenice Jeter 8 Neil Frieser, Allison and Mike Cottle 9 Mike Cotella and Melisa Rhodes with young runners 10 Kenny Green, James Ritman, Ted Ferrarone 11 John Schnefke, Jill Saverine, Bjorn Bumactao, Anny Polanco 12 Along for the ride

| | B O Y S & G I R L S C L U B O F S TA M F O R D | |

Race Way 10

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PHOTOGRAPHS BY HAPPYHAHA.COM

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he Boys & Girls Club of Stamford held its Corporate 5K race in Harbor Point, where Newmark Knight Frank, as presenting sponsor, helped raise more than $160,000 for the Stamford agency. More than 100 corporate teams with over 2,250 participants supported the organization’s mission to enable at-risk youth to realize their potential as productive, caring and responsible citizens.

The Boys & Girls Club of Stamford is a dedicated youth facility that is open daily and available and affordable to all youth. The Club has provided after school activities and development services to the youth of Stamford since 1927, serving more than 1,600 children annually, ages six to 18 at its two locations, the Mary C. Rich Clubhouse on Stillwater Avenue and the Yerwood Center on Fairfield Avenue. Âť

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BEST BREAKFAST BEST DINER

BEST BREAKFAST BEST DINER

1 Sharon Phillips, Barbara Netter 2 Susan Alisberg, Tracy Korrbusch, Andy Alisberg 3 Joan Whipple, Kate Niehaus

| | ALLIANCE FOR CANCER GENE THERAPY | |

Modern Medicine

TRUSTS AND ESTATES

Is not just something we do; it is what we do.

WILLS AND TRUSTS WEALTH TRANSFER

C

ancer gene therapy had an exciting year in 2017 thanks to the FDA’s first-time approval of two genetherapy treatments. So it came as no surprise that there was a full house at the Alliance for Cancer Gene Therapy’s (ACGT) recent panel discussion, “Cancer Gene Therapy: The Next Chapter, Perspectives from the Frontline,” held in New York City. In 2001, Barbara Netter and her husband, the late Edward Netter, founded ACGT, the nation’s only nonprofit dedicated exclusively to celland gene-therapy treatments for all types of cancer, in Stamford. »

TAX PLANNING PHILANTHROPY DAVIDSON, DAWSON & CLARK LLP COUNSELLORS AT LAW 60 East 42nd Street New York, NY 212-557-7700

18 Locust Avenue, 2nd Floor New Canaan, CT 203-966-8759

www.davidsondawson.com

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Wine Stewards 11 1 Paul and Lisa Welch, Steve Corman, Jean Delloe, Bill Connors 2 Susan Van Nostrand, Tom Rich, Sandra Ciraco 3 Judy Marzen, Sharon Poli, Jennifer Cooney 4 Michael and Carol Fedele 5 Howard and Beth Edelman, William and Katherine Aron 6 Lisa Tannebaum, David Genovese, Camilla Herrera, Don Brownstein 7 Shirley, Ava and Sophia Viscarello of Shirley Delicious 8 PJ Hogan, Danette Melchionne, Carmela Elletson, Karen Stockman 9 Andrea and Joe Kopilak, Lauren Fredette, CiCi Coutant, John Fredette 10 Melissa Mulrooney, William Aron 11 Cate and Tim Jervis, Terri and Mike Innaurato, Andrew and Sandra Basta 12 Cynthia Mammone, Lynn Villency Cohen, Leslie Bruzik, Marsha Shendell 13 Gabriella Marcus, Dr. Darlene Negbenebor 14 Arthur and Betsey Selkowitz 15 Matteo Pozzi, Eric Altamura

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he summer kicked off in style with the twenty-first annual Food & Wine Celebration at the Stamford Museum & Nature Center (SMNC), where patrons of this North Stamford jewel sampled vintages and shared laughs with friends.

In the midst of all the celebration, all took time to contribute their support to the organization’s year-round artistic, educational and recreational programming through a silent auction and a giving “vine.” »

PHOTOGRAPHS BY MOFFLY MEDIA’S BIG PICTURE/BOB CAPAZZO

| | S TA M F O R D M U S E U M & N AT U R E C E N T E R | |

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CONTACT US FOR A TOUR

478 ERSKINE ROAD, STAMFORD, CT 06903 | 203.322.7693 WWW.LONGRIDGESCHOOL.ORG

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1 Keynote speaker Brent Peterkin 2 Pat Caffray , Eunice Burnett, Amy Pines, Amy Ford Keohane, Mary Scott Himes. Sophie Dowling, Nicole Heath 3 Laura, Bobby and Jon Bresler 4 Jennifer Joyce, Christa Kenin, Alexis Brooks 5 Marty Isaac 6 Sacha McClymont, Toni Subramaniam 7 Nicole Heath, Betsy O’Reilly, Sophia Viola 8 Mara Shore, Alex Bergstein, Leslie Petrick. Hilary Watson 9 Greg Goldstein, Isabella Segall, Jeremy Stein, Richard Boritz 10 Cynthia Anderson, Aurdey McNiff 11 Susan Bevan, Barbara Bellafiore 12 Susie Jellinek, Shannon Broader, Ashlee Morningstar, Heidi Lafreniere

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| | CT AGAINST GUN VIOLENCE | |

Laying Down the Law

C

T Against Gun Violence (CAGV) recently held its annual benefit luncheon at Greenwich Country Club. More than 500 guests showed their support for the state’s leading organization dedicated to reducing gun violence through grassroots engagement and legislative advocacy. The generosity of the Greenwich community for CAGV, founded here more than twenty years ago by a group of Greenwich residents, was demonstrated once again this year with record-setting contributions. »

PHOTOGRAPHS BY BOB CAPAZZO

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Airlift Benefit Celebrate Your Power to Change Lives Cocktails

Dinner

Dancing

Airlift Bon Voyage

October 13, 2018 6:00 p.m.

Destination: Puerto Rico americares.org/aab2018

Sponsor

Intersections: Celebrating Feminist Voices

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1 Tim Lewis, Alisyn Camerota 2 Jen Danzi, Vince Glenn, Cristin Marandino, John Marson 3 The board members of E.A.T 4 Marni Lane, Susan Kriskey Entwistle 5 Scottie Bonadio, Victoria Gonzales, Hillary Carter, Jamie Kesmodel 6 Evan Edwards, Jake and Jackie Ourman 7 Ellen-Jane Moss, Caroline Lisker, Robyn O’Brien, Alyssa Lipton, Stacey Saiontz 8 The event committee 9 Cameron and Tyler Winklevoss 10 Ashley McGrail, David and Rikki Javitch, John McGrail 11 Robert and Merrill Debbs, Dina and Thomas Silvera

| | END ALLERGIES TOGETHER| | 10

Food Fight

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nd Allergies Together (EAT), the only non-profit organization that solely funds research for the growing food allergy epidemic, recently hosted its third annual fundraising event at l’escale restaurant. Best-selling author and food allergy activist Robyn O’Brien was honored with the Courage Award for her steadfast dedication to advocating for a healthier food system and greater collaboration among those trying to protect the health of our families. »

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

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Inspiring Lives A Benefit Luncheon featuring

NEW YORKER

Roz Chast

cartoonist and author

Wednesday, Nov 7, 2018

1 1 a m - 2 p m Serafina at the IC Stamford, CT SilverSource provides a safety net for low-income older adults. www.silversource.org Tickets and Information Marianne Delaney mdelaney@silversource.org 203.324.6584 Exclusive Media Partner Stamford Magazine / Moffly Media 18.07.17 Ad SilverSource Lunch Roz.indd 1

7/17/2018 8:35:28 PM

The 8th Annual

Benefiting NEW COVENANT CENTER Please Join Us for a Bountiful Evening as THUR

NOV.

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THE ITALIAN CENTER 1620 NEWFIELD AVE. STAMFORD, CT

6:00 P.M.

Cocktail Hour, Delightful Harvest Dinner and Special 40th Anniversary Program

WE CELEBRATE

40

YEARS!

New Covenant Center provides over 600,000 meals each year to our neighbors in need. Harvest Table is a premier fundraising event for New Covenant Center which draws over 300 attendees hailing from all over Fairfield County. New Covenant Center serves the disadvantaged and hungry of lower Fairfield County, 365 days a year. Nutritious hot meals are provided daily in our CafĂŠ. In addition, groceries, meats, vegetables and produce are available in the Food Pantry.

TICKETS ON-SALE NOW Individual Tickets: $150 Table of 10: $1500 Tickets & Information: www.501auctions.com/harvesttable

media sponsor

Sponsorships available starting at $2500

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1 Women of Influence honorees: Tracy Chadwell, Alisa Bahl, Flavia Cattan-Naslausky and Camilla Gaza 2 Ellyn Weitzman, Rosinne Chlala 3 Margaret Day, Sally Laroche, Liz Austin, Lauren Davies 4 Keynote speaker Emilie Rubenfeld of Carolina Herrera 5 Janis Knorr, Cathe Schaefer, Margaret Minichini, Melanie Bedell 6 Emilie Anne Scalise, Dr. Kim Nichols, Taylor Jennett 7 The fashion show, a highlight of the luncheon 8 Karen Kelly, Stephen Candland 9 Caitlin Clark, Andrea Zacher Brown 10 Another fashion show moment

| | WOMEN IN BUSINESS | |

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She Means Business

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he future is female right here in Fairfield County. Moffly Media celebrated its tenth annual Women in Business’ Women, Wealth, & Wisdom event at the Greenwich Country Club for 250 attendees.

Guests were greeted with specialized seminars; a wine reception sponsored by Whispering Angel; an awards luncheon celebrating corporate leaders, entrepreneurs and business advocates; and a first-ofits-kind fashion show of the legendary brand Carolina Herrera to close out the ceremony. A great daylong gathering to network and recognize women’s professional achievements was hosted by Emmy winning News 12 anchor Rebecca Surran, with a portion of the proceeds benefiting the Breast Cancer Alliance. In a groundbreaking year for women’s rights and advocacy, attendees demonstrated the influence of female leaders right here in Fairfield County. S

PHOTOGRAPHS BY MELANI LUST PHOTOGRAPHY

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THANK YOU!

TO OUR READERS, WINNERS AND SPONSORS...

YOU ARE THE BEST!

2018

A Huge Thank You for Making our 14th Annual Best of the Gold Coast Celebration a Tremendous Success!

For photos and live video from this year’s event visit bestofgoldcoastct.com

GOLD SPONSOR

SILVER SPONSOR

BUSINESS SPONSORS

EXCLUSIVE WATER SPONSOR

A portion of the proceeds will be donated to

MONSTER DASH 5K

8:30AM Post Race Fun

8AM Race Begins

9AM Awards

A &F

This race has something for everyone!

M il e 1 event

A flat fast course through downtown Stamford starting in Columbus Park, two loops around Scalzi Park, and finishing at the Y. It’s a fun, costumed event with judging for the best costumes! There’s a one mile fun run for children and families. A great Halloween post-race party, with festive music, Halloween games and great food.

Adults: $25

Youth (ages 5-18): $15

MI

LE

SCHEDULE 7AM Registration

5k &

E R DAS

MI

Race Starts at 8 AM

ST

K H5

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 27

M ON

and 1 MILE FAMILY FUN RUN

LY FUN RUN 1

Children (4 and under): FREE

HELP US MAKE A DIFFERENCE IN OUR COMMUNITY! Visit www.stamfordymca.org/race to register or to become a sponsor.

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Attention Best of Winners!

2018

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:

PLAQUES

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COUNTER CARDS

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WINDOW CLINGS

•

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Counter Card (Front and back)

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

CONGRATULATIONS AGAIN ON BEING A 2018 WINNER!

Ashley Xu John Bolognino Megan Baloutch

Caleb Osemobor Anisha Laumas Jaimie Lopez

Anusha Attre Juliette Lipson Liam Gelling

Luke Buttenwieser Audrey Molina Lalith Goli

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Q & A’s WITH TEENS TO WATCH

BOUND FOR GREATNESS Read it and learn—twelve teens, in their own words, on making the grade

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his year was different. As soon as we put out the call for nominations for the best and brightest Stamford students, the names of great candidates poured in. I cannot remember a more difficult year narrowing the pool to this select few. In the end, it was a good problem to have, as it gave us the chance to highlight an impressive talent, all of them intelligent and focused in ways that give us great hope for the future. I could go on and on about their grades, awards, titles and accomplishments that prove their excellence. (Turn to pg. 94 for a peek at their achievements.) But we decided to dig deeper to learn more about what they love and dream about, what they think and aspire to, what they value and cherish. In doing so, we tapped into their sense of humor— they are really funny!—their giving hearts, their confidence and wisdom, their unquenchable drive and curiosity, all of which give us a greater appreciation for what they’ve done and what they will accomplish in the years to come.

b y c a m i l l a a . h e r r e r a p o r t r a i t s b y h u l y a k o l a b a s p h o t o g r a p h e d o n l o c at i o n at l i l l i a n a u g u s t w a r e h o u s e

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Q & A’s WITH TEENS TO WATCH

Blink by Malcolm Gladwell.

King Lear by William Shakespeare.

ANISHA LAUMAS Greenwich Academy

CALEB OSEMOBOR Brunswick School

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Sing, Unburied Sing

by Jesmyn Ward.

JAIMIE LOPEZ King School

the last BOOK I read was...

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CALEB OSEMOBOR Brunswick School

Greatest challenge?

Four years of varsity swimming. I [had a] plan that allowed me to take care of my school responsibilities while getting adequate sleep and [eating] the right food so I [could] train to the best of my ability. It’s a very difficult and intense sport that requires complete dedication.

Recent lesson?

Even the smallest action can have a big impact on brightening someone else’s day.

Personal motto?

The true test of a man’s character is what he does when no one is watching.

Favorite teacher?

Mr. [Matthew] Kirby-Smith. He taught me in middle school and every year since then. His deep understanding and love for [technical theater] rubbed off on me and made me look forward to class every day.

Teen dilemma?

Today’s teens have to navigate the dangers of sensors like cameras and microphones being ever-present in their lives, something their parents and other generations did not grow up with.

Guilty pleasure?

Making pancakes after midnight.

Career goals?

To end up as a CFO or CEO of a major corporation. My dream job would be as an executive at a major production or entertainment company. This [would allow] me to combine my formal education with my love for filmmaking, photography and digital media.

Secret talent?

I can make origami cranes.

I’m in the middle of binge-watching…

13 Reasons Why. If I could travel anywhere, I would visit…

Southeast Asia.

I aspire to learn…

“Free Bird” on guitar.

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ANISHA LAUMAS Greenwich Academy

King School

Greatest challenge?

Dealing with a major family medical emergency when my grandmother fell down an escalator.

The aftermath impacted me emotionally and showed me how to deal with things beyond [my] control. I had to take care of my younger sister and cousins while my grandmother was taken to the ER. [When] my grandmother came home from the hospital, I helped take care of her and spent more time with her, which gave me a new, deeper [appreciation] for how life is a delicate balance.

Personal motto?

Everything will be fine in ten minutes. If I am ever frustrated when learning something new, or I feel as if I cannot complete a task, I put it down for ten minutes, and I revisit it later.

Give back?

I have served as the teaching assistant for the Middle School Coding Club at GA, an opportunity that means a lot to me and allows me to help others. I enjoy mentoring girls interested in STEM and computer science and [being] someone who they can talk to frankly about their interests.

Favorite movie?

The Truman Show. A comedy and a tragedy, it has always shown me that humans will follow the truth, no matter how painful.

Personal motto?

Work harder than you have to, be kinder than you need to, and never ever give up.

Last summer?

I participated in the Path to a Cure High School Summer Research Program at the Yale School of Medicine for the second year. I conducted independent research investigating the role of certain micro-RNAs on the fate decision of a specific hematopoietic stem cell.

Favorite movie?

The X-Men series. [The movies] are a reminder that everyone has their own unique qualities and they achieve more as a team than they do individually.

Pet peeve?

When people waste time doing things they don’t like. Time is the most precious resource we all have, and people who waste it doing things they don’t enjoy...are passing up the opportunity to explore what they are really passionate about.

Sports idol?

Serena Williams. She continues to defy all expectations and is one of the greatest tennis players of all time.

The best part about my school is… the brotherhood.

Latest listen?

More Spanish pop music, having been inspired by my AP Spanish language class.

If I could change the world, I would… provide clean drinking water to everyone.

If I could change the world I would... give everyone equal access to education.

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JAIMIE LOPEZ

Role model?

My Mom. She is full of kindness and humor at all times. She treats everyone with respect, and I hope I can be as compassionate as she is every day.

Teen dilemma?

The lack of respect we get from the older generations. When we rally against problems that concern us, we are met with skepticism.

I just hope that when we grow up, we won’t underestimate the teenage generation.

Guilty pleasure?

Definitely, gummy worms. I know I shouldn’t eat them but I always find myself with a bag of them every week.

Superhero power?

I would love to freeze time. I feel like I would use it often.

Secret talent?

I can bake really well, when I have time.

Love music?

It has always been something that has connected me with my friends, whether it was in choir or in a musical.

Latest listen?

I have not stopped listening to Lorde’s Melodrama since it released last year.

The best part of my school is… the support I have received from my teachers.

Creative outlet?

I love to knit and crochet. I also play the ukulele in my free time.

I aspire to learn… sign language.

If I could change the world, I would… make transportation more accessible and affordable. >>

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ASHLEY XU King School

Lesson learned?

I grew up with a strict work ethic, and I always tried to apply myself to studying. When junior year started and my workload increased, there were times when I had a hundred things to do, but I would still always try to finish everything, sneaking in work during lunch, or sacrificing sleep. I finally realized that during times like these, when I’m stressed to the point that it is unhealthy, that it is okay not to be okay, and to take breaks, reach out to teachers for help, and make time for hobbies and family.

Personal motto?

Why not? When I am in a situation where I am unsure of what to do, I always ask myself this question. If I can’t answer the question with a valid response, then I have proven to myself that there is more reason to do whatever I was considering, than to not do it.

Role model?

My sister. She is someone I have looked up to for advice and support throughout my life. Even when I was a baby, I only took my first steps because she encouraged me to. She knows what to do in any situation, and always seems to have an endless amount of knowledge and wisdom about the world.

Guilty pleasure?

Watching my favorite episodes of Parks and Recreation, even though I've seen [them] multiple times. It never fails to make me laugh.

Career goals?

I want to have a creative outlet in my life.

Whether it is drawing on the side, or fully integrated into my work, my goal is to create a balance between the sciences and the arts. My dream job would be to work as a visualization scientist for NASA. Latest listen?

“Four Out of Five” by the Arctic Monkeys from their album Tranquility Base Hotel.

Fun fact about you?

I love watching [pro] hockey.

In ten years, I’ll be... living in a city, preferably New York, with a dog that’s bigger than me and a job that I look forward to every day.

I aspire to learn... at least three languages fluently.

The last book I read was...

One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest by Ken Kesey.

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JOHN BOLOGNINO Stamford High School

Lesson learned?

I tend to commit time to events and projects, even if I can’t afford to do so. This sometimes leaves me gasping for air. I’ve learned that focusing my energy on what matters most rather than spreading myself thin makes the best use of my time.

Study tips?

Multitasking is a lie. Focus on one thing and do it properly and thoroughly.

Personal motto?

Humans are like sponges; most of their weight is in the things they absorb. This informs my daily life by reminding me to focus on absorbing what is good and useful so that it becomes part of me.

Favorite teacher?

I have had the good fortune of being educated by myriad wonderful teachers, among them Ms. James, Ms. Cullen, Mrs. Stella, Mr. Sollito, Mr. Freeman, Mr. Ringel, Master Kim and Mr. Katz, but as of this writing, my current English teacher, Ms. Correa.

Pet peeve?

People talking over one another.

Guilty pleasure?

Buffy the Vampire Slayer and similar campy TV shows.

Future goals?

I want a classical liberal arts education focusing on artificial intelligence, psychology, and writing and acting. I want to combine my communication skills with my technical understanding of computers and psychology to more deeply understand what makes us human and how we think. If that doesn’t pan out, I’ll wait tables or something.

Pre-performance ritual?

Before each improv show, to make sure we don’t rely on profanity to be funny, the cast will stand in a circle and swear for a minute straight to get it out of their system. This is very similar to my post-finals ritual.

I would love to cure… ignorance.

The last book I read was…

The Last Lecture by Randy Pausch If I could change the world, I would… make it impossible for people to lie.

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MEGAN BALOUTCH Trinity Catholic High School

Greatest challenge?

Struggling with attention deficit disorder [ADD] made keeping up with the world around me a challenge. I went undiagnosed for a long time because I did well in school, but ADD made everything more difficult. Realizing that I had it and learning how to deal with it truly changed my life for the better.

Study tips?

I take practice tests, giving myself as much time as I would have for the real test.

Give back?

I volunteer at my parish, Union Memorial Church, and have volunteered with Stamford Youth Soccer League. However, tutoring is my favorite way to give back. I know what it feels like to be left behind so I do my best to prevent it from happening to other people.

Style signature?

T-shirts of all kinds: oversized, art and music T-shirts, Dwayne “the Rock” Johnson T-shirts.

I love them all.

Favorite movie?

I love Life is Beautiful. It always makes me cry.

Teen dilemma?

The exorbitant cost of university is a huge issue. Eighteen-year-olds take out loans for school and end up buried in debt. Education is supposed to free and empower us.

Favorite family vacation?

When we went to Greece. I love Greek mythology and history, so going [there] was a dream vacation.

Secret talent?

I love drawing, painting, and any kind of art.

I like to think I'm pretty good at it.

I’m in the middle of binge-watching...

American Vandal on Netflix.

I aspire to learn…

Dari, the dialect of Farsi spoken by my Dad. The last book I read was…

I'll Give You the Sun by Jandy Nelson.

If could host a dinner party and invite anyone, dead or alive, I would ask…

Gustav Klimt, with hopes that he would paint me.

If I could change the world, I would… conserve more of Earth’s resources. >>

if I could TRAVEL anywhere...

I would visit the other side of a black hole, provided I could come back.

JOHN BOLOGNINO Stamford High School

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I would visit Mars.

ASHLEY XU King School

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I would visit Vienna, Austria.

MEGAN BALOUTCH Trinity Catholic High School

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Q & A’s WITH TEENS TO WATCH

the biggest teenage DILEMMA today is...

Social media.

There’s a dehumanizing [quality] to social media that people need to overcome.

Mental illness as well as the tumultuous political climate.

AUDREY MOLINA Westhill High School

LUKE BUTTENWIESER King School

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Today’s teens, including me, spend too much time on the phone. We need to break away from this habit and explore the world around us.

LALITH GOLI Stamford High School

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LUKE BUTTENWIESER King School

Lesson learned?

Never be afraid to put yourself out there and say hello. I know this sounds cliché, but I got my summer job as a transportation researcher and my traffic project with the City of Stamford [by] walking in and saying hello. It opened all of these doors [for me.]

Study tips?

Enjoy class. Learning doesn’t come from cramming your notes the night before. It comes from being engaged. Teachers are receptive to someone who is engaged in their class. You will learn more if you take an active role in class.

Personal motto?

My whole mission in life is to help others. I live by the creed that public service is the highest service.

Favorite teacher?

Mr. [Ian] Lear-Nickum. I’ve never had a teacher who is so insightful and knowledgeable about the world. He has made me a more inquisitive student and person, teaching me about so many things I would have never known about.

Favorite app?

Google Docs. This is the nerdiest thing ever but I use it every day to write my ideas and notes. I run Student Council on Google Docs.

Future goals?

I want to major in urban planning and public policy, and go into government in the field of transportation planning. [By] working in government you get to help so many people and I would get to make their lives better. My dream job would be Secretary of Transportation or the mayor of a major city.

Best superhero?

Batman, [as he] has no real superpowers. He is just a guy helping his community. This is something that is really inspiring to me. Bruce Wayne is using his privilege to help others.

Favorite subject?

History, hands down. AP U.S. history was the best class I’ve ever taken. I’ve never had so much fun in a class.

I would love to cure… homelessness.

The last book I read was…

Homegoing by Yaa Gyasi.

If I could change the world, I would… end global warming.

8

AUDREY MOLINA Westhill High School

Lesson learned?

I used to accept powerful adults making all the big decisions, but my politically active peers have made me realize that my voice can be heard through my writing, my music and more. I now strive to become more involved [in issues] that I used to ignore. So far, I have performed original poetry at two protest events—the Stamford March for Our Lives and the Stamford Press Conference on Gun Violence with Congressman Jim Himes.

Study tips?

Make study guides! I often rewrite my notes before a test into an organized, concise format; simply the act of making the guide commits the material to memory. I wish I could also say, “Don’t procrastinate,” but I am a serial procrastinator.

Personal motto?

I borrow [mine] from author John Green, who preaches that we should “imagine people complexly.” It means recognizing that other people are just as complicated and multifaceted as you are. It’s important to do so to gain empathy.

Style signature?

According to my Mom, “skater boy chic!”

Role model?

My grandfather. He was a fighter pilot in World War II, father to four daughters, became a professor at a university, protested the Vietnam War, swam every day well into his nineties, donated to countless charities, loved red wine, and lived his entire life with compassion.

Favorite family vacation?

To Mexico, when my parents agreed to zip-line into a cave with me.

Future goals?

I would like to double major in English literature and secondary education or adolescent development. My dream job would be as an English teacher for at-risk kids, with a side gig writing novels or human-interest stories.

In ten years, I’ll be… editing my second novel and teaching.

I’m in the middle of binge-watching…

The Handmaid’s Tale.

The last book I read was…

The Wind-Up Bird Chronicle by Haruki Murakami

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LALITH GOLI Stamford High School

Greatest challenge?

A few years ago [I] was an introverted person.

I didn’t like talking to people that weren’t close friends. One day, [something switched] and I became open and very social. Now, I’m happy to be an extrovert and be friends with everyone.

I have a great, humorous personality that has [helped] me [achieve].

Give back?

I volunteer at Creative Learning at the First Presbyterian Church. I help children complete their homework and read books with them. It feels great helping someone learn something new. I also volunteer at the [Ferguson Library].

I help children read and log their reading hours for the library’s summer reading program.

Personal motto?

As YouTuber Casey Neistat once said, “Do what you can’t.” I’ve taken this motto [to heart] by doing things that are outside my comfort zone.

For example, I am beyond scared of heights, but this fear didn’t stop me from participating in the Stratosphere Sky Jump and leaping off an 829-foot building! I even pushed myself to go cliff-jumping off a sixty-foot cliff! If someone tells me that I can’t do it, I push myself harder to accomplish the goal.

Style signature?

I really enjoy the contemporary fashion right now. This includes brands such as Louis Vuitton and Versace to street-wear clothes such as Supreme and Off White. Designer Virgil Abloh has taken fashion to a whole different level with his collaborations with Nike and Louis Vuitton.

Role model?

My father. [By coming] to America [for] a better life, he has shown me that anything is possible.

Future goals?

I want to double major in business and film. I would love to work in advertising or the stock market. I would love to make a movie one day.

Sports idol?

Cristiano Ronaldo! I’m a huge soccer fan and it would be my dream to watch him play live.

Creative outlet?

Making fake movie trailers.

I aspire to learn… how to pilot an airplane.

If I could change the world, I would... get rid of illegal drugs. >>

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Q & A’s WITH TEENS TO WATCH

10

ANUSHA ATTRE

Academy of Information Technology & Engineering

Greatest challenge?

After severely injuring my ankle last year, I was unable to play soccer. As an athlete, I found it difficult to suddenly stop playing. I overcame this physical and psychological challenge by going to physical therapy and training my body slowly to heal and regain strength.

Personal motto?

No problem can withstand the assault of sustained thinking. It reminds me that any challenge I am currently facing will eventually get better if I keep working and thinking positively.

Style signature?

Hoodies and leggings are my go-to!

Favorite teacher?

My AP biology teacher, Ms. [Kimberly] Smith is amazing at recalling the most obscure facts about botany and marine biology. She has inspired me to continue exploring the vast field and pushes me to be the best scientist.

Favorite app?

I love using the Duolingo to learn languages on the go! I’m currently studying Spanish, French, Turkish, Mandarin and Korean on the app.

Favorite family vacation?

My Mom, sister and I traveled to Singapore, Cambodia, Thailand and Indonesia last year.

I loved learning about the different cultures, and I feel that our history classes rarely discuss the ancient history of that region. I learned a lot about the religious beliefs and cultural differences while also soaking up the sun on beautiful beaches.

Future goals?

I plan to major in biomedical sciences or molecular cell biology. My dream job would be working as a medical scientist so I can practice clinical work while doing independent research.

I am currently interested in neurology, oncology and pediatrics.

Secret talent?

I am good at Uno (the card game).

Fun fact about you?

I can knit. I also clean when I’m stressed.

In ten years, I’ll be… in med school/residency. Becoming a doctor takes a long time!

The last book I read was…

Thinking Fast and Slow by Daniel Kahneman.

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JULIETTE LIPSON Stamford High School

Greatest challenge?

A year ago, I gave up [competitive] synchronized ice-skating, [which] had been a large part of my life since I was eight. To deal with the change, I stay in contact with my friends on the skating team, continue to skate on my own, and participate in new activities through school.

Lesson learned?

While hard work pays off, that doesn’t mean you should work yourself into the ground on everything you do. Sometimes you need to [find ways] to balance schoolwork and extracurricular activity with fun and relaxation.

Give back?

Mostly through my Girl Scout troop. We make pies for the soup kitchen during the holidays, collect personal care items for Inspirica, [sing] carols at Sunrise Senior Living, make blankets for Blythdale Children’s Hospital and make care bags for cancer patients.

Role model?

I am very proud and impressed by my parents, and I aspire to be the perfect mixture of the two of them. They are both successful scientists who received high levels of education and have worked at exciting start-up companies and NASA’s Jet Propulsion Lab. I am also very interested in science so I look up to their success.

Teen dilemma?

Today’s teens are under a lot of pressure. As high school students, [we feel] we need to do everything in our power to be accepted at top colleges. [Teens] take on too many challenging classes and can be overworked. I worry that it takes some of the joy out of being a teenager.

Guilty pleasure?

Cheesecake. I can eat quite a bit of cheesecake.

Favorite vacation?

[Besides Los Angeles,] the Black Hills and the Badlands of South Dakota. When my parents first described the trip, I wasn’t that thrilled.

But the Black Hills took my breath away and we went on the most beautiful hikes. The mesmerizing geological features of both the hills and the Badlands made me wish my high school offered a course on geology.

Favorite superhero?

Black Widow, because she doesn’t have a superpower (which might technically mean she is not a superhero) and yet she is still an incredible fighter.

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LIAM GELLING Westhill High School

Greatest challenge?

I’ve experienced a lot of challenges and it’s hard to compare them to each other, but the one thing that gets me through the hard times is music. Listening to music or playing one of my instruments has shown me how important it is to have a passion in your life.

Give back?

I volunteer at my church and teach catechism.

I’m also on the Summer Youth Theater [SYT] board at Curtain Call. [Since] I have to fulfill fifty hours of community service, [my volunteering] includes ushering, bake sales and costume clean-outs.

Personal motto?

I’m still here. It’s vital to remember that [no matter how] many times life may punch you in the gut, you still have the chance to get up and keep moving forward. After the storm, there’s always going to be a ground zero to grow from.

Last summer?

I performed in Curtain Call’s Bye Bye Birdie while playing bass for the show. I also prepared for my auditions for college by practicing my repertoire and writing college essays. In June, I went to Boston to the New England Conservatory for a Jazz Lab to further my skills on the upright bass.

Style signature?

Sometimes a poncho. Sometimes a fedora.

Depends on the occasion.

Role model?

Brian Bianco, the education director at Curtain Call and the advisor of the SYT board. I’ve known Brian for four years and worked with him over the summer at the Curtain Call camps.

He’s always a phone call away, and the way he expresses his passion for theater and the arts is worthy of mass appreciation. He’s an excellent mentor and a good friend.

Pet peeve?

When people interrupt other people, it is the worst. It’s like the person who interrupts thinks they have something more important to say that they have to completely drive a bus through your thought.

Future goals?

I would like to major in music therapy, have a private practice and stay home with my kids while also following my dreams of helping people and teaching music. >>

Some throwback hits by Drake and Kanye.

[Some] pop music, but the last year or so I think there have been very few solid songs.

JULIETTE LIPSON Stamford High School

ANUSHA ATTRE Academy of Information Technology & Engineering

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lately I have been LISTENING to...

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Bye Bye Birdie, and the music I’m playing for my gigs.

LIAM GELLING Westhill High School

FIRST in CLASS

Prepare to be schooled: a look at this year’s whiz kids

CALEB OSEMOBOR Brunswick School

Honor Roll, four years Varsity swimming, four years President, Diversity in Action Club, senior year Senior Senator, Student Council Brunswick Union, senior year Peer Leader, senior year Vice President, Arch Street Teen Board Princeton Model UN Prize, sophomore year Accomplished photographer

JAIMIE LOPEZ King School

King Scholar, four years Inducted into the Cum Laude Society, senior year Recipient of the French Prize, senior year Recipient of the Robert Morse Carpenter Memorial Prize for academic achievement and citizenship, senior year Recipient of the Faculty Prize, senior year Milestones Club, facilitator and leader, four years JV soccer, four years

ANISHA LAUMAS

Greenwich Academy Valedictorian, freshman and junior years Inducted into the Cum Laude Society, junior year Recipient of the AP Scholar Distinction Award, junior year Recipient of GA’s Wall Award for Excellence in American History and the Leo J. Whelton Mathematics Award, junior year Recipient of the National Center for Women and Information Technology—Connecticut Affiliate—Award for Aspirations in Computing, junior year Participant in the Path to a Cure High School Summer Research Program, conducting biomedical research at Yale School of Medicine, summers 2017 and 2018 Recipient of the Melissa D. Holland Award for character growth, promise, integrity and commitment to GA, sophomore year Current third-degree black belt in Taekwondo Member of the award-winning GA Robotics team, four years

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Cocaptain, Debate Team, senior year Member of the King Math Team, Model UN, UNICEF Club

ASHLEY XU King School

King Scholar Inducted into the Cum Laude Society, junior year Recipient of the 2017 National Gold Medal, Scholastic Art and Writing Competition for oil painting, Questioning.

Recipient of the 2017 Silver Key Award for Self Portrait in charcoal and the 2017 Gold Key Award for Questioning, Connecticut Regional Scholastic Art Awards Program Accomplished archer: two-time first-place winner of the 2017 Connecticut Target Archers Association JOAD Indoor State Championship, up to 17 years old, female category; third-place winner of the 2016 Connecticut Target Archers Association JOAD Indoor State Championship for Compound Bow, up to 17 years old, female category; secondplace winner of the 2015 Connecticut Target Archers Association JOAD Indoor State Championship for Compound Bow, up to 14 years old, female category

Captain, varsity soccer Treasurer, Multicultural Club Member of Teen PeaceWorks and the Sedes Sapientiae Chapter of the National Honor Society Accomplished artist

LUKE BUTTENWIESER King School

JOHN BOLOGNINO

Stamford High School Inducted into the National Honor Society, junior year Recipient of the 2018 Achievement Award in Writing from the National Council of Teachers of English Honored by the NASA Consortium, Connecticut General Assembly, Stamford Board of Education, Mayor David Martin and the Stamford Board of Representatives for, as part of a team, designing an experiment that was tested at the International Space Station in June Recipient of the 2016 Connecticut Drama Association’s All-Cast Award for performance in The Real Inspector Hound, which won “Best Play” and “People’s Choice” awards at the Connecticut Drama Festival Cocaptain, Strawberry Hill Improv Players Producer and Director of Connection Time News, SHS’s TV news program Reporter, The Round Table, SHS’s newspaper Current second-degree black belt in Taekwondo Member of the SHS Leadership Academy

MEGAN BALOUTCH Trinity Catholic High School

Honor Roll and Honors with Distinction Inducted into the National Honor Society, junior year

King Scholar High Honor Roll President, Student Body and Student Council, senior year Founder and President, Young Democrats Club Junior Class Representative, Student Council Recipient of the UVA Jefferson Book Award, junior year Recipient of the American History, Diversity and Inclusion awards, junior year Connecticut Swimming Scholar Athlete with the Chelsea Piers Aquatic Club, ranked sixteenth in the state King community organizer, March for Our Lives, New York City Burgeoning Traffic Analyst: former intern, City of Stamford Bureau of Transportation, Traffic and Parking (spring) and the (NYU) Rudin Center for Transportation Policy and Management (summer)

AUDREY MOLINA

Westhill High School High Honor Roll Inducted into the National Honor Society, junior year President, Modern Music Masters Honors Society Recipient of the 2018 Connecticut Drama Association’s Outstanding Actress Award for performance in Radium Girls, which won “Best Play” award at the Connecticut Drama Festival State Champion, 2018 Poetry Out Loud Winner of first prize in fiction in the Ferguson Library’s 2017 Literary Competition >>

IGNITE

Independent Schools

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ADMISSIONS OPEN HOUSE AND VISIT DAYS 2018-2019 BERKSHIRE SCHOOL BI-CULTURAL HEBREW ACADEMY OF CONNECTICUT BRUNSWICK SCHOOL

Cayleigh Griffin Sports Reporter, FOX Sports TCHS Class of 2010

THE CHILDREN’S SCHOOL FAIRFIELD COUNTRY DAY SCHOOL FAIRFIELD PREPARATORY SCHOOL GERMAN INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL

At Trinity, you can become everything you imagine yourself to be in an atmosphere of faith, academic excellence and tradition.

The global community begins here.

GREENS FARMS ACADEMY GREENWICH ACADEMY GREENWICH COUNTRY DAY SCHOOL KING SCHOOL THE LONG RIDGE SCHOOL THE MASTERS SCHOOL

Trinity Catholic High School

NEW CANAAN COUNTRY SCHOOL

926 Newfield Avenue, Stamford, CT www.trinitycatholic.org

PUTNAM INDIAN FIELD SCHOOL RYE COUNTRY DAY SCHOOL SACRED HEART GREENWICH SCHOOL OF THE HOLY CHILD

OPEN HOUSE: October 16, 5:30 – 7:30 p.m.

ST. LUKE’S SCHOOL STAMFORD BOARD OF EDUCATION

ENTRANCE EXAMS: October 27 & November 10, 8:00 a.m.

TRINITY CATHOLIC HIGH SCHOOL WHITBY SCHOOL WINSTON PREPARATORY SCHOOL

For more information on the OPEN HOUSE and ENTRANCE EXAMS, please call Cindy Willette, Director of Admissions at 203.487.8242

FOR A COMPLETE SCHEDULE OF ADMISSIONS OPEN HOUSES, TOURS AND VISIT DAYS, PLEASE VISIT ILOVEFC.COM/OPENHOUSES

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A Co-educational College Preparatory School Serving Lower Fairfield County

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FIRST in CLASS

LALITH GOLI

Stamford High School Inducted into the National Honor Society, junior year President, Class of 2019 Member of winning team, Student Spaceflight Experiments program Captain, Strawberry Hill Improv program Mentor, SHS Leadership Academy Member, Strawberry Hill Players Varsity golf

SIDE SHOPPING JULIETTE LIPSON

Stamford High School Honors with Distinction Inducted into the National Honor Society Student Representative, SHS Athletic Council Member, SHS Leadership Academy Captain, varsity cross-country; qualified to run in the State Open Meet, junior year Captain, varsity outdoor track; qualified to run in the State Meet, junior year Elected to the All-FCIAC Second Team, sophomore and junior years Girl Scout; currently working toward a Gold Award Synchronized Skating National Champion, novice and intermediate levels Completed the Gold Level U.S. Figure Skating Moves in the Field Tests Mickey Lione Scholarship finalist

Our thanks to Lillian August Warehouse for allowing us to use its space, and some props, to photograph the teens. See something you like? Here are the details.

LOVESEAT The Pelman loveseat has a welt, buttontufted back, naturalLee cushions and is upholstered in Marco ruby fabric. $2,999.

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OTTOMANS Made from vintage wool carpet remnants, these are available in a variety for overdyed colors and three shapes: colunm, cube and soft triangle. $199 each.

Rugs

LIAM GELLING

Westhill High School

ANUSHA ATTRE

Academy of Information Technology & Engineering Honor Roll Inducted into the National Honor Society and the Spanish National Honor Society, junior year Vice President, Science National Honor Society, junior year Recipient of AITE’s Pillars of Character Award, three years Recipient of Spanish and Science Department awards for academic excellence, junior year Participant in the Eugene and Ruth Roberts Summer Student Academy, conducting biomedical research at City of Hope cancer center, summer 2018 Varsity soccer Captain, JV soccer, sophomore year

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International Baccalaureate High Honors First place winner in digital video production at the Future Leaders of America State Leadership Conference Section Editor, The Westword Member of WHS gospel choir, marching band, jazz band, Northstar Playmakers, Improv Troupe Accomplished musician: saxophone, guitar, electric and upright bass, piano, ukulele, bass drum, cymbals and quads Accomplished vocalist, actor and composer Participant in an independent study on music composition and arrangement Participant in WHS Academy of Finance program S

GLOBES Each one has a unique cartography and character, made with wooden and metal posts. All have a wooden base with a swing meridian. $169-$256.

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RUGS Vintage, over-dyed, one-of-a-kind wool rugs come in a variety of colors and patterns. Sizes are 9 ft. x 12 ft., 8 ft. x 10 ft. $2499-$2999.

PHOTOGRAPHS; LOVESEAT, OTTOMANS AND GLOBES BY GARVIN BURKE; RUG CONTRIBUTED BY LILLIAN AUGUST

Drum Major, marching band Recipient of Director’s Choice Award for work ethic as drum major, junior year First-Chair Clarinetist, concert band Member of the Westhill Chamber Singers Recipient of the United Way of Western Connecticut’s Service Certificate, junior year Recipient of the Stamford Museum & Nature Center’s Volunteer Service Award, sophomore year

JOIN THE FIGHT FOR ALZHEIMER’S FIRST SURVIVOR. At the Alzheimer’s Association Walk to End Alzheimer’s®, people carry flowers representing their connection to Alzheimer’s — a disease that currently has no cure. But what if one day there was a flower for Alzheimer’s first survivor? What if there were millions of them?

Norwalk/Fairfield County Walk to End Alzheimer’s®

September 16

Calf Pasture Beach, Norwalk Visit alz.org/walk to register or start a team.

Ad generously sponsored by

THANK YOU Thank you to all of our sponsors and fundraising athletes for supporting the 2018 Navigators Stamford KIC IT Races. Together we are making a difference for children and youth.

TITLE SPONSOR The Navigators Group, Inc.

SPONSORS Goldman Sachs • Shoff Darby Insurance Agency • LeClairRyan Foundation • Milbank, Tweed, Hadley & McCloy LLP • Boeing • GE Capital Aviation Services • Clifford Chance LLP • Gen Re • Terex Corporation • WomanScape • Travelers • KIC Grandma Marsha Shendell • Angela Swift Realtor Houlihan Lawrence • First County Bank • Fieldpoint Private Bank & Trust • Garden Catering

MEDIA SPONSORS Moffly Publications • WEBE-108 • Heart Media • News12

CONTRIBUTORS ACME • Chelsea Piers Connecticut • LYMBR • RISE Brewing Co. • River Bicycles • School of Rock Bedford • Nestlé Pure Life • Timex • Danny’s Cycles • JetBlue • The Ritzy Chickens • Firehouse Deli

FUNDRAISERS Rafael Aparicio • Alain Benzaken • Abigail Deane • Katie DeRose • Emilie Duclos • Lily Farzaneh Emma Kate Freatman • Suzanne Fruithandler • Team Junius / Rosemary Hyson • Clementine Milligan • Team YGG / Kathryn Minckler • Erika Moss • Mark Naso • Barbara Reiniger • Shelia Rose Jason Salomon • Team Stehli Stompers A special thank you to the City of Stamford, to our co-chairs Tom Davidson and Rosemary Hyson, and to all of our volunteers.

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The Inn at GrayBarns puts a modern and chic spin on the B&B concept.

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THE INN CROWD ELLEN MCDERMOTT

YOU DON’T HAVE TO GO A LONG DISTANCE TO GET AWAY FROM IT ALL. A CHARMING LOCAL INN IS THE PERFECT PLACE TO CHECK IN— IN ORDER TO CHECK OUT. by jeanne craig

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THE INN AT GR AYBARNS 194 PERRY AVE., NORWALK 203-489-9000, GRAYBARNS.COM

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provide some digital detox,” says Glazer. “We want guests to really unwind. That’s why the soaking tub is the centerpiece of each bathroom.” The rooms are so inviting at GrayBarns, some people find it hard to leave them, particulalry since you can order in special services such as massages and mani/pedis, provided by To And From salon in Darien.

If you can muster up the resolve to lift your head from that mohair pillow, there are bikes (from NYC-based Priority) for guests, who can pedal along the quiet streets to take in the views and historical homes, and rediscover area icons like the Glass House (about three miles away) and Silvermine Arts Center. Afterward, head to the Tavern at GrayBarns, where locally sourced, elevated comfort food prepared by Executive Chef Ben Freemole is served in a dining room framed by dramatic wood beams and lit by a huge stone fireplace. Even if you’ve dined here before, GrayBarns may have a few surprises for you. A Sunday brunch was recently added to the menu, and a pop-up bakery featuring the inn’s own baguettes and breads sets up in the barn on Friday and Saturday mornings. “Having grown up in this area, I felt there were very few options for those who wanted to spend the night in a great inn,” says Glazer. “We’re trying to offer something with real authenticity, a family-run establishment that offers a different level of detail.” »

PHOTOGRAPHS BY NOAH FECKS AND MARILI FORASTIERI

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ravelers are gravitating toward historical destinations. It’s as if they want a deeper connection to American culture as their business and social networks become more global,” says Nicole Glazer of Glazer Group, the family-owned company that has reimagined a corner of Norwalk on the banks of the Silvermine River. This address was once a stagecoach stop, a textile factory, a speakeasy during Prohibition and, more recently, the Silvermine Tavern. In 2017, the nineteenth-century structure was reopened as The Inn at GrayBarns, a rustic-chic destination with dashing good looks and earthy charm.

There’s plenty of reclaimed wood, rough stone and butter smooth leather in the six guest rooms and tavern/restaurant. GrayBarns is on the radar of Manhattanites who have done the B&B scene in the Hudson Valley, but it also lures locals who want to leave their own homes to unplug. “We get a lot of couples who want a night away,” says Glazer. “There’s a real sense of calm here. We’ve also hosted groups of locals, including a half dozen women who were here to celebrate a friend’s fortieth birthday.”

What are the features that locals like most? The rooms, for starters. Each suite is a “king,” and sized at about 900 square feet—ample space for amenities such as fireplaces, lounging areas and terraces with river views. And to pamper guests in rustic fashion, there are luxe textiles like cashmere throws, uphostered beds and velvetcovered chairs. As for the rotary phone in each room, “It’s there to

JUST LIKE HOME Home-style touches in each guest room include a Nest thermostat, Nespresso machine, 49-inch TV and complimentary WiFi.

SWEET SPACES Stroll by the kitchen garden, where the chef will be picking greens for your dinner and have a post-dinner drink in the small library off the dining room.

PHOTOGRAPHS BY NOAH FECKS AND MARILI FORASTIERI

BEST ROOM “The Addison room is my favorite,” says Glazer. “It has a beautiful original fireplace and French doors open to a private patio with river views. It has a sense of drama with high ceilings and chandeliers. My boyfriend, however, likes room five because you can see the TV from the bed.”

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BEDFORD POST INN 954 OLD POST RD., BEDFORD, NEW YORK 914-234-7800, BEDFORDPOSTINN.COM

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Co-owners Richard Gere and Russell Hernandez

Ridge Reservation; others can explore the Wolf Conservation Center in South Salem.

For retail therapy, get a fix in the town of Bedford or nearby Katonah and Pound Ridge.

“There’s a lot to do off-site, but some guests like to stay on the property,” she says. They’ll schedule an in-room massage and facial, and then head over to the Yoga Loft, where multiple classes for all experience levels are scheduled each day.

And then there’s the food. Like all Relais & Chateaux properties, this one offers gourmet dining. Casual meals are at The Barn—a whitewashed outbuilding with justright rustic accents—where there’s a Sunday brunch and daily dining on the outdoor patio with a woodburning grill so guests can watch the chef in action. With live music and string lights hung beneath a wisteria-covered pergola, it’s a lovely place on a warm evening. The Farmhouse is more formal, although still relatively casual. Until recently, this was the location of Campagna, but this summer a new restaurant opened, offering cuisine that, Rotondi says is “American based with a French influence.” »

PHOTOGRAPHS CONTRIBUTED

he drive to Bedford is a snap. Just cross the state line onto country roads lined with stone walls, padlocked gates and trees that loom like sentries over the weekend homes of hedge fund managers who relish the moment they’ll arrive on Friday evening to kick off their wingtips and shut out the city. But urban commuters aren’t the only people who experience that “aha” moment in Bedford. Fairfield County residents travel here, too, specifically to the Bedford Post Inn, if only to feel they’re a million miles away from it all. Yet if the nanny calls in the middle of the night with news that one of the kids is sick, Mom and Dad can hop in the Range Rover and hightail it home in under a half hour.

This is a cozy, eight-room luxury inn set on fourteen acres with lush, mature landscaping. It’s also one of the boutique properties in the Relais & Chateaux global portfolio, which means it’s meticuloulsy maintained and boasts white-glove service. It has celebrity appeal, too, as co-owner Richard Gere occasionally stops by to dine at one of two restaurants on site. Pricey? Absolutely. A weekend here isn’t cheap, but in Bedford, money really can buy happiness.

“It’s a great getaway in any season,” says Lisa Rotondi, the inn’s manager, who believes there’s no better place to get snowed in by the fireplace in one of the guest rooms (and the outdoor firepit is the perfect place to snuggle up and make s’mores). “In warm weather you can spend a lot of time outside. The property is filled with hydrangeas and the walking trails are lovely,” she says. Guests with more ambitious excercise goals can hike in nearby Ward Pound

BEST ROOM “Most guests like room seven because it’s the largest,” says Rotondi, “but my favorite is room two.

It’s a California king with a terrace that’s more private than the others, and a reading nook with great lighting.”

SOAK IT IN Each room has an oversized bathroom with claw-foot tub and plenty of cool marble.

PHOTOGRAPHS CONTRIBUTED

LOCAL KNOWLEDGE “I often encourage guests to go down to Guard Hill Road to look at the beautiful estates and catch a glimpse of peacocks crossing the road,” says Rotondi. “A resident raises the birds and lets them run wild through town.”

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HOMESTEAD INN / THOMAS HENKELMANN 420 FIELD POINT RD., GREENWICH 203-869-7500, HOMESTEADINN.COM

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quills hanging over a table covered with garden mosses, ferns and terrariums. Over in another corner, forged iron and bronze sculptures could share space with baroque furnishings and accessories by Bunny Williams. Here, old meets new with panache.

Despite the charms of the guest rooms (which are located in the main building and carriage house), many people who come to the Homestead aren’t aware you can spend the night. That’s because they get so disctracted by the food.

The French cuisine prepared by a world-class chef— Thomas Henkelmann—is consistently rated sublime by returning guests and food critics alike, who also applaud the country-elegant atmosphere in the dining room with exposed beam ceilings and fireplace, and impeccable service. White linen, fine china and gleaming silverware are the backdrop for Henkelmann’s culinary artistry—think sautéed sweetbreads with Perigord black truffle sauce, seared Hudson Valley duck foie gras with macaroni and cheese and caramelized Granny Smith apples, and grenadin of veal with a Maine lobster risotto, parmesan lace, watercress and a port wine sauce.

When guests are not eating during their stay, what do they like to do? “Some go to the Avenue, others hike at the Audubon Center, or play a round of golf,” says Carroll. “But for the most part, people who come here are simply looking to do their own thing.” »

PHOTOGRAPHS CONTRIBUTED

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hile this 1799 farmhouse on two-plus manicured acres in the Belle Haven section of Greenwich is intimate by virtue of its size with seventeen rooms, it is not your traditional inn. “We are a luxury boutique hotel that is full-service, with staff on hand twenty-four hours a day and a French restaurant rated four stars by the New York Times,” says co-owner Theresa Carroll. “It’s a real getaway, a place that feels more like a little piece of Europe than a corner of New England.”

What makes it that way? The caliber of the smart service, for starters.

When you roll up the driveway at this Relais & Chateaux property, a person will most likely step outside to greet you and politely shoulder your bag, even if it’s weighed down by one too many pairs of shoes.

Once you’re through the door of the Victorian Italianate manor, you get the sense you’re in a space that’s evolved over time, rather than been made over to follow a trend. “I’m a designer and I change up the rooms all the time,” says Carroll. “I move things around, paint, swap out furnishings and French linens. I love a bit of change. It’s fun. And I never want a guest to turn a corner and see a blank wall. I am not a fan of minimalism. I’m of the ‘more is better’ school.”

In the public spaces, you may see a mirror framed with porcupine

BEST SEAT IN THE HOUSE It’s on the terrace, which offers nice views of the property and overlooks a pretty coleus garden.

A GREAT BEGINNING The best way to start your day, says Carroll, is with a breakfast of eggs Benedict at the restaurant.

“It’s made with the best hollandaise sauce you have ever tasted in your life.”

FINE SPIRITS

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The bar at Homestead boasts a top selection of spirits, from brandy to single malt scotch. But more appealing is the bartender, Astley Atkins, who has his own fan club.

Why is he so loved? “I can’t articulate it,” says Carroll.

“It’s hard to explain what makes someone cool.”

THE INN AT LONGSHORE 260 COMPO RD. SOUTH, WESTPORT 203-226-3316, INNATLONGSHORE.COM

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t’s perhaps best-known as a busy venue for weddings and bar/ bat mitzvahs. And during the week, the location draws its share of business travelers who are willing to sacrifice loyalty points at a favorite hotel chain for the chance to stay in a place that feels more like a destination, with soothing shoreline views and a long, curving drive that puts the nearest highway far out of earshot. But The Inn at Longshore also appeals to locals craving a New Englandstyle beach escape in any season. A number of these guests are repeat customers, too, including some who have been checking in for more than twenty years. Many choose Longshore for special celebrations.

One couple recently booked a stay for their twentieth wedding anniversary. They arrived in the afternoon, making sure to carve out time for a walk from the property over to Compo Beach before heading back inside for dinner at the on-site restaurant; then they were off to the Westport Country Playhouse for a show.

The Inn was built in the late 1800s as a private estate, so it has quirks: There’s no elevator, for instance, just walk-up access to floors above the main level; and in the summer, guests are cooled by air-conditioning

units installed in the windows. These things don’t seem to bother fans of Longshore, though, who are quick to praise the twelve guest rooms (particularly the suites as they include comfortable sitting areas), the garden and water views, and access to resort-style amenities, including tennis courts, pool and an eighteen-hole golf course built in the mid1920s by architect Orrin E. Smith and later renovated by John Harvey.

Water sports rentals (think sailboats) are nearby for summer guests; winter visitors can go ice skating. Of course, repeat customers will tell you to choose your dates carefully; if you want a quiet, relaxing stay, book when there’s no wedding on the inn’s schedule.

When you’re hungry, dig into the American cuisine at The Pearl, where the menu typically offers extensive raw-bar options, homemade pastas and steaks. The dining room, with its long, leather banquette and wall of wine bottles, seats sixty; but there’s also an enclosed porch facing the water that’s a serene spot at any time of year. On one evening, the space was warmed by three-dimensional star-shaped lights overhead that were dimmed to make the porch a romantic setting. Just right for a special celebration.

FUEL UP

Guests here are typically active. This high-energy crowd likes to hit the free continental breakfast and then burn off the calories outdoors.

Longshore was originally a private estate turned country club, until the town of Westport bought the land in 1960. But before it opened to the public, Longshore hosted celebrities such as F. Scott and Zelda Fitzgerald, Frank Sinatra and Marilyn Monroe.

Gorgeous views for miles await visitors to the Inn at Longshore.

caption teekay

PHOTOGRAPH BY MELANI LUST

STAR APPEAL

ROGER SHERMAN INN 195 OENOKE RIDGE, NEW CANAAN, 203-966-4541, ROGERSHERMANINN.COM

PHOTOGRAPH BY SANDRO DE CARVALHO PHOTOGRAPHY

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ike other centuries-old New England inns, The Roger Sherman has a long history of reinvention, and that lineage is one of the subjects that some patrons like to rehash over cocktails at the fine old bar in this 250-year-old landmark.

It was built in the eighteenth century as the home of Martha Sherman, the local minister’s wife and niece of Continental Congress delegate Roger Sherman. It then changed hands several times before a New York financier acquired the home in 1868 and upgraded the digs to satisfy his lifestyle, which was that of a Gilded Age tycoon. In 1925, the title passed to J. Herbert and Louise Stevenson Tebbetts, who converted the property to an inn. Hotelier John D. Shea bought the business from them but sold it in 1960 to New Jersey country club manager Roger Sherman Ross, a direct descendant of the original owner, for whom the property was named.

Through the centuries, Roger Sherman has maintained a reputation for fine dining, and it was that culinary connection that appealed to real estate investors Joseph and Nesreen Jaffre, who bought the place in 2008. The inn had some good years, but challenging times followed the last recession. So in 2014 when the Jaffres announced they would sell the inn, fans wondered if the antique building would be paved over

for housing. Not so, as a celebrated chef recently recruited by the Jaffres is now attracting a new wave of patrons with his locally sourced menu and philopshy. Francois Kwaku-Dongo is an Ivory Coast-born culinary pro who gained international prominence in 1991 as executive chef at Wolfgang Puck’s Spago in West Hollywood. “We’re fortunate to have him,” says Nes Jaffre. “He’s brought his own philosphy and vision to the inn. He’s all about nature and nurture.”

The activity in the kitchen has spawned plans for remaking other areas around Roger Sherman, with its lovely rolling lawn and great location just a half mile from the center of the town of New Canaan.

Updates to begin soon include the addition of vegetable and herb gardens for the chef, the expansion of the main dining room and a light makeover for the seventeen guest rooms, including new bathrooms, smart TVs and faster WiFi. “When you have a 250-yearold property, it always needs renovation,” says Jaffre. “But we don’t want to change the property so much that it’s unrecognizable. It’s been in existence for hundreds of years; it’s a historic landmark and one of the crown jewels of New Canaan. Guests will still find chocolates in their room at night and heated scones in the morning.

S We’re modern, but we’re still homey.”

BEST ROOM “I love room 22, the honeymoon suite,” says Nes. “It is one of our deluxe suites, but you don’t have to be on your honeymoon to enjoy it.”

WE GOT THE BEAT The food is a major draw at Roger Sherman, but live music on the weekends also pulls in a crowd. The musician from New Jersey is popular with guests who say he does Paul Simon songs better than New Canaan resident Paul Simon.

SECRET SPACE “Not many people know about our wine room,” says Nes. “It’s beautiful and seats up to thirtyfive people for private events like birthdays and anniversaries.”

The historic inn combines old-world charm with modern luxuries and firstclass dining.

hahelp ute OPPOSITE PAGE: COURTESY OF KATE YOUNG; THIS PAGE: COURTESY OF ERIN WALSH; JESSICA SAMPLE; INEZ AND VINOODH

by m eg a n g ag n o n

Styling powerhouses on the business of getting red-carpet ready

ERIN WALSH

ROB ZANGARDI & MARIEL HAENN

KATE YOUNG

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ERIN WALSH

Q&A HOW HAS STYLING CHANGED SINCE YOU STARTED?

EW

Social media means so much these days.

And when I started, people were pretty tied to the magazines they worked with.

Freelance styling wasn't such a huge thing, especially in terms of red carpet.

It's kind of all different.

You just have to keep rolling with it. You have to evolve and grow with the industry if you don’t want to be left behind.

WHAT’S THE BEST PART OF YOUR JOB?

EW

Working with people who surprise and challenge me is pretty great.

WHAT’S THE MOST CHALLENGING?

It is hard to find enough time in the day most days.

WHAT'S THE BIGGEST MISCONCEPTION ABOUT YOUR JOB?

EW

dramatic flair

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nlike most of her colleagues, Erin Walsh did not grow up dreaming of a career in couture. Instead, she armed herself with a BFA in theater from NYU but changed her plans soon after graduation. A temping job at Condé Nast led to a coveted position alongside Phyllis Posnick at Vogue, and from there, fashion became her new focus.

Today, she’s known for her ability to use that editor’s eye to translate looks for style-savvy stars (see: Kerry Washington, who redefined maternity style with awardsseason looks that included crop tops and cutouts). Walsh has attracted clients like Washington who are unafraid to take risks and embrace her aesthetic; one that is both cool and elegant, strong and whimsical. With her guidance, Sarah Jessica Parker, Kristen Wiig, Thandie Newton and Maggie Gyllenhaal tackle fashion with confidence. Walsh may have shied from the pressures of an actor’s life in the spotlight, but she is not afraid to let her leading ladies shine.

That it’s all glamorous and exciting. It is a lot of work, especially in terms of logistics and production.

WHAT'S THE BIGGEST DISASTER THAT’S EVER HAPPENED TO ONE OF YOUR CLIENTS?

EW

I have had all the trunks for a shoot not make it in time, and I made a shoot out of cutting apart the tank tops and slips in my kit.

That was interesting.

WHAT'S A TYPICAL DAY LIKE FOR YOU?

EW

Snuggle kids in morning,

COURTESY OF ERIN WALSH

u

EW

coffee, email review, market planning for shoots and clients, try to squeeze in a workout somewhere, kids, kids, maybe a cocktail somewhere, make dinner.

Something like that.

Sleep at some point.

insta glam Behind the scenes with @erinwalshnyc

WHEN DID YOU FEEL LIKE YOU'D MADE IT?

EW

Still hoping...

WHAT’S BEEN YOUR FAVORITE RED CARPET MOMENT?

EW

Kerry Washington in Giles pony dress to Django Unchained premiere. Done.

Walsh plays hand model with a fistful of Fred Leighton rings.

WHICH TRENDS ARE YOU LOVING FROM FALL ’18?

EW

I love pastel plaids à la Balenciaga, oversized Native American looking prints à la Sacai, and ’70s Western vibes from Chloé that feel so effortless and cool.

KERRY WASHINGTON BY FERDAUS SHAMIM/WIREIMAGE; INSTAGRAM COURTESY OF ERIN WALSH

WHICH TRENDS WOULD YOU LOVE TO SEE GO AWAY?

EW

Neon Impromptu elevator photo shoot with client Thandie Newton in Erdem

WHAT’S YOUR FOOLPROOF DAYTIME UNIFORM?

EW

High waisted jeans and a striped top.

WHO ARE YOUR FAVORITE DESIGNERS RIGHT NOW?

EW

Monse, The Row, Gucci, Khaite, Céline, Chloé

WHO ARE YOUR STYLE ICONS?

EW

SJP and Lauren Hutton, mixed with Jane Birkin and Jackie O. WHAT WOULD YOU SAY IS YOUR TRADEMARK LOOK?

Kerry Washington in Giles at the Django Unchained premiere

EW

’70s with a twist; classic with a little quirk HOW DO YOU STAY ON TOP OF THE LATEST IN FASHION?

EW

By living in NYC, we are in the thick of it!

So we live in it.

WHAT’S YOUR BEST STYLIST TRICK OR ADVICE YOU GIVE TO PEOPLE GOING TO A BIG EVENT?

EW

Are you comfortable?

That’s usually when you look your best.

Sarah Jessica Parker attends a fitting for her Met Gala ensemble by Dolce & Gabbana.

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ROB ZANGARDI & MARIEL HAENN

Q&A HOW DID YOU GET INTO STYLING?

RZ

I grew up in Ohio, where I got a degree in retail merchandising. I visited my brother in New York and met a wardrobe stylist at MTV. I worked on a job with MTV for a few weeks and then got hired full time.

MH

I went to school for design and met a music producer who introduced me to the wardrobe stylist on set. I was working the shoot as a seamstress but started making my own connections and got into styling.

WHAT’S THE BEST PART OF YOUR JOB?

RZ

Traveling.

We can see and experience once-in-a-lifetime opportunities with our clients, like when Shakira performed at the World Cup or Jennifer Lopez at the Super Bowl.

WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO WORK AS A TEAM?

hen it comes to dressing larger-than-life celebrities, two stylists are better than one. And for Rob Zangardi and Mariel Haenn, working together as a team—a rare thing in the styling world—has proven to be the secret to their success. Just ask Jennifer Lopez or Gwen Stefani—two artists who dominate multiple industries, maintain personal global brands and, with Zangardi and Haenn’s direction, continue making waves with unforgettable fashion moments.

For clients like these, the duo has to look beyond the step and repeat to concert tours packed with costume changes and heavily choreographed performances. Their backgrounds prepared them well for these music megastars—Zangardi at MTV, Haenn on hip-hop video sets—but they also style actors looking for that mix of Hollywood glamour and rock ‘n’ roll (Charlize Theron, Hailee Steinfeld, Cara Delevingne, Lily Collins).

Each new client presents an opportunity for the pair to create next-level ensembles, whether they perform on the stage or screen.

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We met at MTV and bonded over jewelry.

Mariel was working with Rihanna, and she asked for my help since I lived in L.A. and knew the city. The first job we worked on together was the “Umbrella” music video, and we just clicked. We come from different backgrounds but have very similar tastes.

WHAT’S THE BIGGEST MISCONCEPTION ABOUT YOUR JOB?

MH

People don’t realize

PORTRAIT BY JESSICA SAMPLE

better together

RZ

how hard the job actually is. It’s not always glamorous and it really relies on our relationships with designers and lugging trunks and rolling racks around the world. Styling involves missed meals, running around, driving, lots of coffee, and sleepless nights.

insta glam Behind the scenes with @robzangardi @marielhaenn

WHAT’S THE HARDEST PART ABOUT WORKING TOGETHER?

RZ

There are really nothing but positives in working together. We can be in two places at once. Our clients get both a male and female perspective on wardrobe.

Jennifer Lopez matches her straw to her pink Gucci dress.

WHEN DID YOU FEEL LIKE YOU’D MADE IT?

JENNIFER LOPEZ BY STEVE GRANITZ/WIREIMAGE; INSTAGRAM COURTESY OF ROB ZANGARDI & MARIEL HAENN

RZ

We still have goals we want to achieve, but the first time we felt acknowledged and honored was when we were on the cover of The Hollywood Reporter with Jennifer Lopez.

It was a very special moment, especially considering the time she took out of her schedule to shoot the cover with us.

A rainbow collection of sky high heels

WHICH TRENDS ARE YOU LOVING FROM FALL ’18?

MH

We love the whole utilitarian vibes with the canvas straps and super-functional pockets.

FOOLPROOF DAYTIME UNIFORM?

RZ

Some kind of vintage jean, a jacket, and sneakers or boots depending on the time of year

FAVORITE DESIGNERS RIGHT NOW?

MH

Virgil Abloh, Johanna Ortiz, Vera Wang

Jennifer Lopez in Giambattista Valli at the 2016 Golden Globes STYLE ICONS?

MH Bardot

Kate Moss, Brigitte

TRADEMARK LOOK?

MH

Overall sexy, cool and effortless

HOW DO YOU STAY ON TOP OF THE LATEST IN FASHION?

MH

Attending and watching runway shows as soon as they walk WHAT’S YOUR BEST STYLIST TRICK OR ADVICE YOU GIVE TO PEOPLE GOING TO A BIG EVENT?

MH

Take pictures of yourself from

every angle to make sure everything looks good. Tailoring is key.

Also, make sure you feel as comfortable as your look will let you be.

Throwing shade with Hailee Steinfeld in Privé Revaux sunglasses

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2018 STAMFORD

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KATE YOUNG

Q&A HOW DID YOU GET INTO STYLING?

KY

I worked at Vogue for years and was regularly styling the “People Are Talking About” page, which is about new actresses. I worked with a lot of those actresses when I left to freelance.

HOW HAS STYLING CHANGED SINCE YOU STARTED?

KY

People know what it is now. When I started doing it, I had to explain to anyone outside of the industry what the job entailed.

WHAT’S THE BEST PART OF YOUR JOB?

KY

The clothes are the best part!

WHAT’S THE MOST CHALLENGING?

KY

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WHAT’S THE BIGGEST MISCONCEPTION ABOUT YOUR JOB?

KY

industry icon n amassing a roster of devoted celebrity clients, Kate Young has become famous herself. Known for her signature platinum locks and penchant for edgy-but-girly looks, she earned her place at the top with best-dressed moments from Margot Robbie, Sienna Miller, Natalie Portman, Michelle Williams, Selena Gomez, Dakota Johnson and Rachel Weisz, to name a few. Young’s story started where many fashion careers begin, at Vogue magazine, working first as Anna Wintour’s assistant and eventually as an editor. From there, she used her relationships to build a career working directly with the stars that graced her editorial pages. Her continued presence as a major player in the fashion world—she consults for labels and runway shows and has had her own design collaborations—ensures unrivaled access to the latest collections while cementing her status as one of the most sought-after stylists.

STAMFORDMAG.COM

That it’s glamorous.

WHAT WOULD YOU SAY IS YOUR TRADEMARK LOOK?

KY

For myself, edgy classic For my clients, they look like themselves.

WHAT’S A TYPICAL DAY LIKE FOR YOU?

KY

After getting the kids (two young boys) to school, I usually try to exercise and then go to the office to edit racks or request looks and prepare for a fitting or a shoot.

I do lots of showroom appointments,

PORTRAIT BY INEZ AND VINOODH

i

The most challenging is all of the travel and organization.

insta glam

because I really am much better when I see things in person.

WHAT’S BEEN YOUR FAVORITE RED CARPET MOMENT?

KY

It’s always the latest.

I’m a fashion person and I want to see new, new, new.

Behind the scenes with @kateyoung

WHAT’S ONE PIECE FROM FALL ’18 THAT YOU’RE BUYING?

KY

I’m obsessed with a pair of Givenchy boots that are sort of 70s and sexy.

WHICH TRENDS WOULD YOU LOVE TO SEE GO AWAY?

KY

Margot Robbie’s Chanel Haute Couture gown for the 2018 Oscars took over 600 hours to create

Transparent panels in workout pants WHAT’S YOUR FOOLPROOF DAYTIME UNIFORM?

KY

Black jeans, button down shirt, Louis Vuitton boots

MARGOT ROBBIE BY VALERIE MACON/AFP/GETTY IMAGES; INSTAGRAM COURTESY OF KATE YOUNG

WHO ARE YOUR FAVORITE DESIGNERS RIGHT NOW?

KY

Jacquemus, Brock Collection, Chloé, The Row, Louis Vuitton

Stacked rings from Schlumberger and Tiffany & Co.

WHO ARE YOUR STYLE ICONS?

KY

I have too many to name. I wrote a book [Dressing for the Dark] about fashion and cinema because I’m really influenced by movies.

WHAT’S YOUR BEST STYLIST TRICK OR ADVICE YOU GIVE TO PEOPLE GOING TO A BIG EVENT?

KY

You must have good undergarments.

They make all the difference in the world. S

Margot Robbie in Tom Ford at the 2016 Oscars

Young wears one of the crowns pulled for this year’s ‘Heavenly Bodies’themed Met Gala

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2018 STAMFORD

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PHOTOGRAPHY BY: BOB CAPAZZO, KRISTIN HYNES, MELANI LUST & MARSIN MOGIELSKI

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INDEX OF ADVERTISERS ARTS & ANTIQUES Bruce Museum . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Drew Klotz Kinetic Sculpture . . . . 116

BUILDING & HOME IMPROVEMENT California Closets . . . . . . . . . . . 10

BUSINESS & FINANCE Cacace, Tusch & Santagata . . . . . 37 Cummings & Lockwood LLC . . . . . 12 Davidson, Dawson & Clark LLP . . . 73

EDUCATION & CHILDREN Bi-Cultural Hebrew Academy of Connecticut . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 Carnegie Prep . . . . . . . . . . . Cover 4 Greenwich Country Day School . . . 19 Independent Schools Open Houses . . . . . . . . . . . . 95 King School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41 The Long Ridge School . . . . . . . . 75 Rye Country Day School . . . . . . . 37 St. Luke's School . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 Stamford Public Schools . . . . . . . 13 Trinity Catholic High School . . . . . 95 Whitby School . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43 Winston Preparatory School . . . . . 45

ENTERTAINMENT Curtain Call Theatre . . . . . . . . . .

Stamford Tent & Event Services . . . . . . . . . . . .

Star 99.9/ The Anna & Raven Show . . . . .

Westport Country Playhouse/ Man of La Mancha . . . . . . . . .

23 29 55 60

EVENTS 8th Annual Harvest Table Benefiting New Covenant Center . . . . . . . 79 17th Annual Gala for Pacific House . . . . . . . . . . . . 43 25th Annual Benefit Golf Outing . . 117

A-list Awards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65 Americares Airlift Benefit . . . . . . . 77 Bartlett Arboretum & Gardens Flower Power . . . . . . . . . . . . 67 Best of the Gold Coast Thank-You . . 81 Best of the Gold Coast Online Store . . . . . . . . . . . . . 83 Breast Cancer Alliance/Annual Luncheon and Fashion Show . . . 57 Breast Cancer Alliance/ Go For Pink! . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57 Carver's 5th Annual Golf Classic . . 117 Experience Greenwich Week to Benefit Think Greenwich . . . . . 117 Fall Events at Mill River Park . . . . . 59 Franklin Street Works Annual Benefit Party/Intersections: Celebrating Feminist Voices . . . . . . . . . . . 77 Greenwich Land Trust Go Wild! . . . 116 Hope for Haiti Harvesting Hope Celebration . . . . . . . . . . 31 Light a Fire 2018 . . . . . . . . . . . . 62 Loft Artists Association Open Studios 2018 . . . . . . . . . 82 Monster Dash 5K and 1 Mile Family Fun Run . . . . . . . . . . . 82 Navigators Stamford KIC/ IT Races to Benefit Kids in Crisis Thank-You . . . . . . . . . . 97 NYCWFF . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 Paint the Town Pink . . . . . . . . . . 47 SilverSource/Inspiring Lives: A Benefit Luncheon Feauring New Yorker Roz Chast . . . . . . . . . . 79 Stamford Health Health Wellness & Sports Expo 2018 . . . . . . . . 71 Stamford Museum & Nature Center Farm to Table Supper . . . . . . . 69 Walk to End Alzheimer's . . . . . . . 97 Women's Business Development Council Women Rising 2018 . . . 49

FASHION Roundabout . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39

FOOD, CATERING & LODGING Elm Street Diner . . . . . . . . . . . . 73 Mackenzie’s Bar & Grill . . . . . . . . 55 Marcia Selden Catering & Events . . 29 Table Talk . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51 The Water's Edge at Giovanni's . . 4, 5

HEALTH & BEAUTY Atria Stamford . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35 Domestic Violence Crisis Center . . 45 Memorial Sloan Kettering Physicians at Norwalk Hospital . . . . . . . . . 7 The Nathaniel Witherell . . . . . . . . 39 ONS Orthopaedic Neurosurgery Specialists . . . . . 15 Stamford Health . . . . . . . . . Cover 3 Western Connecticut Health Network . . . . . . . . . . . 33 Yale New Haven Health/ Northeast Medical Group . . . . . . 3

JEWELRY Lux Bond & Green . . . . . . Cover 2, 1 Manfredi . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Marco Bicego . . . . . . . . . Cover 2, 1

NONPROFIT Adopt-A-Dog . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75

PHOTOGRAPHY Bob Capazzo Photography . . . . . 116

REAL ESTATE Barbara Hickey, Sotheby’s/ William Pitt . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

SPORTS & FITNESS Chelsea Piers Athletic Club . . . . . . 11

TRANSPORTATION Rudy's Executive Transportation . . 41

MISCELLANEOUS Big Picture . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 118 Westy Self Storage . . . . . . . . . . 45 SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2018 STAMFORD

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Last Word MIDDLE-AGE REALITY

by beth levine

Mirror Image B

ack in the day, when I was just a little slip of a teen, I could wear anything.

Hot pants and thigh-high boots, the miniest of miniskirts, crop tops that cropped way too high, hip huggers that hung too low.

The problem is now that I am not a little slip of a teen, I still think I can wear those sorts of things. When I go shopping, I mindlessly grab outfits that would have suited a younger me, try them on, look in the mirror and… go into shock. And then I have to sit down and put my head between my knees and do cleansing breaths.

“Are you okay in there?” asks the store assistant.

No, I think. “No, I am not okay. But, uh, thanks for asking.”

“Do you need anything,” she persists perkily.

My thoughts continue: Better lighting? Breast reduction? The skinny mirror?

Would you happen to have any oxygen in the back because I could really use some right about now.

It’s hard when you are eighteen years old inside and then are confronted with the reality that your college is offering your reunion class golf carts, if need be, in the class parade.

When you reach a certain age, you also tend to lose your sass about your looks. You pick, evaluate, assess, compare. I gasp at my chins, groan at my muffin top, wonder who stole

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my neck. My sister recently showed me a photo she had taken of me on her phone; I shrieked at her to delete it immediately.

“Oh, everyone thinks they look terrible in pictures,” she says.

“Did you ever think that maybe everyone might be right?” I retort.

Which leads me to the all-important question: When do you make peace with that person in the mirror?

I think I got part of my answer when recently, my husband, Bill, and I went to the Broadway show The Band’s Visit, starring the stunning Tony Award-winning actress Katrina Lenk. I found myself mesmerized by how comfortable she was in her skin.

Although she is no longer eighteen, she still had the confidence I remember once having.

The way she moved with purpose, the way she stood with her shoulders back, the way she sat with legs spread out without apology, there was nothing shrinking or self-critical about her. Granted, she is a beauty and was playing a part, but still, it stayed with me.

The next time Bill and I went trawling at the Stamford Towne Center, I was still horrifying myself with stuff that was just too… too, which is usually when I get disgusted and buy a muumuu. At my new favorite place, Saks Off Fifth, Bill picked out a flowered Tommy Hilfiger dress for me. It was not anything I would have ever chosen because it

was made for grown-ups, but then I thought of Katrina. She would wear clothes for who she is now, and not try to cling to the past.

She’d own it.

So I tried it on and forced myself to pull my shoulders back and stand tall. I attempted to claim my space the way Katrina did.

Just doing that made me feel more powerful. When I looked in the mirror, I almost admitted that I looked not bad, maybe even okay-ish if I squinted. I took more cleansing breaths. Okay, so maybe I am a work in progress, but with Katrina as my spirit guide, S I may just get there.

Beth Levine is proud to announce she no longer emits silent screams when she goes into department store dressing rooms.

Bethlevine.net; @BethLevine75

PHOTOGRAPHS: PORTRAIT BY JOHN MARTIN; MIRROR BY ©VOYAGERIX - STOCK.ADOBE.COM

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