Stamford - November/December 2020 by Moffly Media

OUR HEROES HELPERS WHO LIGHT A FIRE OF INSPIRATION pg. 50

STAMFORD PLUS: Stamford’s KÖVO skincare • Arts under pressure • Immunity boosters • Disaster preparedness

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enjoy! MARCIA SELDEN CATERING, PRIME, TABLE 104 and THE WATERS EDGE AT GIOVANNI’S on creative ways to share their love of food now

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Grand Opening

contents NOV/DEC 2020 vol. 11 | no. 6

features

departments 12 EDITOR’S LETTER

by diane talbot sembrot

15 STATUS REPORT

TABLE TALK Over the several months, area foodies have been remarkably creative about bringing in customers, from outdoor dining to pickup options. We talked to local chef/owners about what they have learned and what they are planning next.

SHOP SPECIAL HOLIDAY SHOPPING GUIDE: Wonderful gifts for everyone on your list

DO Books to read by the fire; Pro way to prep for disaster

by joey m ac ari

EAT Celebrating our new happy place: The Lila Rose

LIGHT A FIRE Meet locals who step up and help others in our community. Now, more than ever, we need a reminder about the very best in people—that we are here for one another and we care. These locals, at the onset of Covid-19, made a big difference in our community.

38 FINANCE FIX

What wealthy people know, and you should, too 63 INDEX OF ADVERTISERS 64 POSTSCRIPT

by ji l l joh ns on m an n

by d onna mof f ly top: Light a Fire Honoree Marc Jaffee below: The Lloyd opens

on the c over: marcia selden catering • photo gr aphy by andreas & nic o nyc STAMFORD MAGAZINE NOV/DEC 2020, VOL. 11, NO. 6. // 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. stamfordmag.com

SEAFOOD TOWER COURTESY PRIME’S INSTAGRAM ACCOUNT; LIGHT A FIRE BY MELANI LUST; THE LLOYD BY CHRIS RANDALL; BOW ©JUKOV STUDIO - STOCK.ADOBE.COM

BUZZ The Lloyd opens; KÖVO skincare products; show up for Curtain Call; immunity boosters

Manufactured entirely in Switzerland parmigiani.com

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nov/dec 2020

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CELEBRATING THE SCENE STEALERS OF OUR CITY

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CONNECTING CT

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In Honoring Our COVID-19 Heroes

For the Record: A FAVORITE Area Pastime

THU RS DAY, DECEMBER 3 5 :4 5 - 6: 4 5 P.M.

JUMP ONLINE

Visit our directories for resources

Bill Taibe

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Hiking with his dog at Devil’s Den in Weston

First cup at Coffee An’ or Donut Crazy

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Cristin Marandino–cristin.marandino@moffly.com editor, stamford; fairfield living; westport Diane Sembrot–diane.sembrot@moffly.com market editor

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Elizabeth Hole–editor, custom publishing Julee Kaplan–editor, new canaan • darien copy editors

Terry Christofferson, Kathryn Satterfield, Scott Thomas contributing writers

Carol Leonetti Dannhauser, Timothy Dumas, Beth Cooney Fitzpatrick, Chris Hodenfield, Jill Johnson Mann editorial advisory board

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SIMPLY IRRESISTIBLE

editor’s letter

NOV/DEC 2020 / DIANE TALBOT SEMBROT

know it sounds shallow, but I’m going to miss Lord & Taylor. It’s just one of those places that somehow became a part of my life story. I didn’t even see it happening. I just recall often going to the store with my mother and my grandmother. It was always an outing. When they needed a new dress or a pair of shoes, they always stopped by Lord & Taylor. When I was young, I simply loved the long, curved driveway that led to the upper parking lot and the walk toward the immense white building—its name in a “scripty” lettering. It felt special and fancy—and I was going there! It didn’t matter if I was getting new clothes or not, I just enjoyed the trip, with my mother tying a pretty scarf over her freshly curled hair and my grandmother nudging her black handbag up to her elbow. It all combined to have the feeling of becoming a family tradition, at least for the women. The other day, I drove up to the south lot to enjoy its amazing, miles-long view of the city (I’ve never been able to take a photo that does it justice). When I looked up at the building, expecting that familiar heart-tug and excitement, I saw a big, garishly yellow banner slapped on the side of my cherished memory: “Store Closing!” It’s one of those moments when you know, but it’s still hard to see it. I know, I know…there are far more issues to worry about these days than a department store closing. Yes, I am deeply grateful to have my health; and, yes, I am over the moon to be working for this magazine. Yet, I am also sad about the closing of a chapter.

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I feel the same way about United House Wrecking. I can’t tell you how many hours I’ve spent in there, just wandering and hunting for the fun of it. It wasn’t about finding a lamp or a book shelf. It was about seeing fabulously immense fireplace mantels, dark-wood doors as big and Gothic as if salvaged from an ancient castle, and shelves of vintage typewriters, medicine bottles and other knick-knacks. It was like a museum of time, architecture and human quirk. Now it too has ended its story. Our city is changing—some of us still stubbornly call it town. It will be OK. Stores close and we find new ones to love. We refresh. Our city/town has an endearingly authentic way of holding both its past and its future in each hand with equal love—one passion, one fondness. This city is optimistic. This town is respectful. There’s a place for everyone. As I continue to explore Stamford and take photos of moments I enjoy, I am creating new memories without even knowing it. It only takes a Saturday afternoon stroll through Mill River Park, along the water at Harbor Point, or through the Stamford Nature Center for new things to become familiar. When I want to indulge in the endurance of our history I can find that too. The story of this place includes plenty of reasons to cherish it while it becomes part of our life stories.

PHOTOGRAPHY: WILLIAM TAUFIC

TRADITIONS

THE BEST ORTHOPEDICS BY FAR IS RIGHT HERE. Hospital for Special Surgery and Stamford Health have teamed up to bring world-class orthopedic care closer to you. Our team of experts remains dedicated to making safe, responsible musculoskeletal care available â&#x20AC;&#x201C; wherever you are. To learn more about our in-person and virtual appointment options, visit HSS.edu/StamfordHealth

HSS Stamford, 1 Blachley Rd, Stamford, CT 06902 Most major insurance plans accepted. New patients welcome.

Thank You! On behalf of everyone at SilverSource, thanks to all who made our recent Inspiring Lives Virtual Gathering a success! We appreciate the support from sponsors, contributors and all who attended our event, and extend a very special thank you to Joan Lunden. We are also deeply grateful to our Board, volunteers and community partners for all they do to further our mission and stand up for older residents. Our seniors are still very vulnerable, so this year we are especially grateful to all of you whose ongoing support helps keep them safe.

SPONSORS CHAMPION: Point72 Employee Giving Foundation BENEFACTOR: Ron & Joanne Salvatore, Richard A. Silver, Esq. HUMANITARIAN: Grade A ShopRite, Peggy & Alan Kalter, Gary & Karen Neems CIRCLE OF SUPPORT: The Bloka Literary Society, Sharon & Jack Feighery, First County Bank, Tom & Donna Getreuer, Judith Heft & Associates, Kilbourne & Tully P.C., Mezzapelle & Associates, Gene & Day Rubino, Stamford Health MEDIA SPONSOR: Stamford Magazine, Moffly Media

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above: The Lloyd is outfitted with West Elm furniture and includes a full workout studio, cafe and lounge and views of Stamford. Also, as a Tapestry Collection by Hilton property, HILTON Honors members may now take advantage of all the benefits and more. below, left: The entrance below, right: “Dance with Me” by Silvermine artist Eddie Nikkai in a guest room

NOW ARRIVING

ALL PHOTOGRAPHY BY CHRIS RANDALL

ack in our March/April issue, we shared word that a new hotel was opening, and this summer the celebratory red ribbon was cut at The Lloyd (thelloydstamford .com). Located downtown, at 909 Washington Boulevard, the new ninety-four-room luxury boutique hotel was developed, and is operated, by RMS Companies. “Considering this unprecedented time in our country, we are pleased to offer a new product that offers guests a keen attention to detail, service, safety and comfort to address the changing needs and desires in hospitality today,” said CEO and developer Randy Salvatore. “The

Lloyd is the perfect destination for travelers looking for an accessible staycation, a weekend getaway or a business hotel between Washington, D.C., and Boston.” The hotel has a soothing and modern feel that suits its surroundings. Locals are welcome, too—the lobby is part day café that serves breakfast and coffee and part night lounge that pours wine and cocktails. “Our design team focused on endowing the space with comfortable elegance, and the lobby design invites the guests to hang out, relax, get work done or just have fun,” noted Bruce Beinfield, president of Beinfield

STAMFORD’S NEW BOUTIQUE HOTEL THE LLOYD OPENS TO WELCOME GUESTS AND LOCALS b y d i a n e s e m b r o t

Architecture. “It has been a pleasure to work with the RMS team to breathe life into The Lloyd hotel.” The guest rooms are outfitted with modern West Elm furniture and luxurious amenities. The spa-inspired bathrooms boast walk-in showers with frameless glass doors, plush robes, Malin + Goetz toiletries made from natural ingredients. Rooms have large flat-screen TVs and complimentary high-speed WiFi. Guests also enjoy local shuttle service, nightly turn-down service, complimentary and freshly brewed coffee or tea delivered to the room in the morning and a twenty-fourhour marketplace; and it’s a pet-friendly hotel. Plus, The Lloyd is a short distance from nearly eighty restaurants and bars and the Mill River Park, and guests can work out in the hotel’s twentyfour-hour core- and cardiostrengthening fitness center. It has plenty of natural light, a Peloton bike and The Mirror for on-demand yoga, fitness training classes and more.

THE RMS PORTFOLIO RMS Companies—named developer and builder of the year among other accolades—is a privately owned and fully integrated real estate development firm with multiple mixed-use developments, luxury apartments and boutique hotel projects in the tristate area. Its local portfolio includes UConn Residences, The Verano, The Moderns, Parallel 41 and The BLVD as well as Ainslie Square and Hotel Zero Degrees in Norwalk and Danbury.

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IMAGINE THAT The Lloyd is working with Silvermine Arts Center (silvermineart .org) to feature a curated collection of works by local artists. Founded in 1922, the center includes a School of Art, with more than 1,100 courses and workshops, and five galleries, which present exhibits and juried competitions. Locals can stop by the hotel to get a preview of the talent in our area. If inspired, they can also contact Silvermine to register for a class. Options include ceramics, glass-blowing, painting, jewelry-making and woodworking. Classes and workshops are also available online— for example, the school recently ran a series on pen-and-ink techniques.

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NATURAL BEAUTY

STAMFORD-BASED KÖVO INTRODUCES AN ORGANIC BOTANICAL SKINCARE LINE b y d i a n e s e m b r o t

Made in Stamford, KÖVO Essentials includes CBD, pobiotic and bakuchiol, which is a plant-based alternative to retinol

with consumers to show that our products are not harmful,” Frank says. KÖVO uses hemp grown in domestic soil free of toxins and triple tested for purity. “CBD—also known as cannabidiol, which is the nonintoxicating compound found in hemp and a derivative of the Cannabis Sativa plant— was legalized as an agricultural commodity in the 2018 Farm Bill,” he explains. “The active compounds of the cannabis plant, the flower, leaves and stem are used to calm skin inflammation, diminish wrinkles, brighten skin dullness and treat skin conditions such as redness, acne, psoriasis and eczema. KÖVO included CBD in our formulations because of the antioxidants properties that help counteract free-radical damage to the skin and reduce the look of inflammation—calming and soothing the skin. It lessens the visible signs stamfordmag.com

of aging, diminishes wrinkles and fine lines, reduces breakouts—especially acne-related redness—as well as skin dullness. It restores skin tone and balance to look and feel better.” They use probiotics to “provide antibacterial, anti-inflammatory benefits and help to balance the flora of the skin’s surface to minimize break-outs and soothe skin conditions, such as acne, eczema and rosacea,” he says. Products include serums, face toner mist, under-eye patches, face cleanser and a face mask. Face serum 33, for one, hydrates, fights free radicals and boosts collagen production with natural oils, botanical extracts, probiotics and CBD oil, while face serum 11 contains bakuchiol, an alternative to retinol to firm, plump, hydrate, calm and promote collagen production. It’s all about looking and feeling good, naturally.

CONTRIBUTED

ne day, you look in the mirror and there it is. A wrinkle. A frown line. A blemish. How’d that get there? So you look for your moisturizer and check the label. That’s when you realize you can’t read it. Not because the type is small (though it is), but because it seems written for chemists. Cofounders and Stamford natives Frank Sette, Michael Sette and Jessica Bongiorno keep things easy with their newly launched and Stamford-based KÖVO Essentials (kovoessentials.com). “KÖVO Essentials is a CBD + probiotics + peptides, plant-based, clean beauty skincare company,” notes Frank, using the brand’s signature plus sign. Frank, who is CRO, says the brand’s unusual name stands for serenity, harmony, approachability, contribution and courage. It’s about good vibes. “We selected the color yellow for our packaging to represent freshness, happiness, warmth, positivity, clarity, energy, optimism, enlightenment, loyalty and joy,” he says. The line is cruelty free and vegan and has no synthetic ingredients— no sulfates, phthalates, parabens, SLS, artificial fragrances, animal ingredients or chemicals. So what does it include? “We decided to produce a skincare line with CBD and probiotics as our ‘hero ingredients,’ along with using premium plant-based ingredients, because consumers are looking for chemical-free, clean and natural beauty products,” he says. Its users know what they are getting—each product is labeled with a lot ID, batch ID and specific QR code. “Consumers can scan the QR code, which takes them to what is called COA— Certification of Analysis from a third-party lab-tested results—so that they can see for themselves that our products have no THC, no heavy metals, no toxins, no pesticides. KÖVO has taken these measures to be transparent and to build confidence and trust

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left, above: Exterior of the Kweskin Theatre • left, bottom: Lou Ursone and Senator Richard Blumenthal discussing the Save Our Stages Act • center: Lou as Teveit in the 2013 production of Fiddler on the Roof • right: Lou as Leonato in Much Ado About Nothing in 2019

the show must go on W

e can occupy our minds with Netflix, new hobbies and work, but they are not as exciting as live theater. With the lights on nearby Broadway dimmed and countless other mediums doomed to virtual limbo, Stamford’s Curtain Call Inc.(curtaincallinc.com) remains committed to entertaining, delighting and inspiring the community. Executive Director Lou Ursone spends his days reading dozens of scripts and coming up with creative ideas to keep the theater active and offer patrons a high-quality theatrical experience they’ve grown to expect from his company. “In spite of the devastating effects of the pandemic,” Lou maintains, “I really believe that Curtain Call will come through this dark time as strong as ever.” Since Covid-19 hit in March, Lou has been in constant contact with the American Association of Community Theatre and was inspired by other theaters’ quests to

remain open and attract patrons. One theater in the Midwest, he shares, even opened its theater as a nine-hole golf course, with each hole representing a different Broadway musical. With the added benefit of Curtain Call’s performance family “jonesing to do anything,” by July, Lou had put together several cabaret-style shows in the outdoor performance space designated for Shakespeare on the Green. To minimize risk, the cabaret shows comprised both monologues and scenes with actors who co-habitat. They followed socialdistancing protocols and sold out every show. “Our patrons are the best,” says Lou. “When I wrote a daily message to our email list for 130 consecutive days, they responded with cards, emails, notes and phone calls in support because the arts are as important to them as it is to us. They know the value we bring to the community and appreciate it.”

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Curtain Call has reopened the Kweskin for socially distanced plays and cabaret’s, and has resumed educational classes for kids and adults in a safe, COVID-friendly space. Plans also include doing the shows and musicals that were canceled in spring 2020 as the openers of the new season; they are: Anything Goes and Kinky Boots. Senator Richard Blumenthal proposed the Save Our Stages Act, which would provide federal funding to struggling entertainment businesses. In the meantime, to sustain Curtain Call through the crisis, donations can be made through Text to Give. Just text the word GIVE to 833-291-4749 to get started. It also offers an automatic monthly giving option. Lou, stressing the severity of the issue around the country, says, “It’s not just us. You can reach out to any other arts organization that you’ve been to—we all need to help. The life of every theater is on the line.”

CONTRIBUTED

CURTAIN CALL’ S F I G H T T O S A V E T H E S T A G E A N D B E Y O N D by joey macari

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NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2020 STAMFORD

THE BIG REBOOT BUILDING A HEALTHY IMMUNE SYSTEM CAN BE KEY TO GETTING

THROUGH THE WINTER MONTHS

by liz barron

andemic or not, it’s pretty safe to say that keeping our immune systems strong is an important element to staying healthy. And, with the cold and flu season ramping up, now is clearly the time for a reboot. We spoke with local medical experts JOSH HERBERT, M.D., medical director, primary care, at Stamford Health Medical Group, and KAREN BECKMAN, M.D., pediatrician at Riverside Pediatrics LC in New Canaan for their advice on what could help.

Are there supplements we all should be taking right now? Dr. Herbert:

number of colds but more high-quality studies are needed. There is no conclusive evidence that any herbal remedies impact the incidence of the common cold and many have unsafe side effects for children. The current recommendation is that they should be avoided in children. vitamin E has also commonly been used because it has been shown to decrease the number of colds; however, it is associated with an increase in all-cause mortality and therefore should be avoided.

No supplements have been proven to prevent Covid-19. Many claim to improve immunity but these claims often lack scientific evidence. Some supplements or combinations have the potential to be harmful [interactions with one another, high doses, mixing with prescription medication, etc]. It is always best to check with your physician regarding supplements. For general health, commonly used supplements that are safe at the appropriate doses are multivitamins, melatonin, vitamin C, zinc and vitamin D.

Will we see less sickness in general because of mask wearing and socialdistancing orders? Dr. Herbert: Masks work. Covid-19 has been demonstrated to spread via respiratory droplets (although airborne transmission continues to be studied). Therefore, maintaining physical distance (6 feet) and wearing a mask decreases transmission. Masks are critically necessary in decreasing transmission from asymptomatic Covid positive people. Areas that adapted mask wearing, distancing and hand washing have proven to show decreased spread of infection. The R0 (“R naught”) of an infectious disease refers to how contagious it is or, more specifically, how many people are likely to become infected from one contagious person. Based on that mathematical

Dr. Beckman: Children living in the Northeast should be taking vitamin D3 supplements during the school year. I recommend 400 to 600 IUs for infants and children up to puberty and 1000 IUs starting at around age 11. A multivitamin (with vitamin D) is useful for children with limited diets. Some studies show that vitamin C dosing of at least 200 mg/ day helps prevent upper respiratory infections. Studies show that zinc helps shorten the course of the common cold when given at a dose of 50 mcg/kg/day up to a maximum dose of 2000 mcg/day but should never be given intranasally. There is also some evidence that probiotics may help decrease the

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formula, Covid-19 is more contagious than influenza. So if we are taking measures to prevent Covid, we automatically decrease the spread of flu. Just do not wear a mask with an exhalation valve or vent. These types of masks potentially allow the contagious virus to be exhaled out the vent. Should I worry about my child’s immune system more now than ever? Dr. Beckman: For most children, there is no need to evaluate their immune system. Taking preventative measures, wearing masks and ensuring proper hand washing should be enough. For children who are suffering from more than “their share” of infections, especially repeated bacterial infections, or infections severe enough to result in hospitalization— further testing should be pursued to look for underlying immunodeficiency disorders. How can we maintain a healthy immune system? Dr. Herbert: Everyone’s immune system is different and is affected by multiple factors— some that are modifiable and others that are not. Health conditions, prescription medications and advanced age can put certain individuals at higher risk of infection; focusing on factors that can be controlled is key.

HABITS FOR GOOD HEALTH 1 GET ENOUGH QUALITY SLEEP 2 EAT A BALANCED DIET Limit sugar and processed foods, and increase amounts of vegetables, fruits, whole grains, healthy fats, and lean protein. 3 STAY HYDRATED Gargling with water three times a day has been shown to reduce the incidence of the common cold. 4 EXERCISE Target 150 minutes per week of cardio for adults. 5 MAINTAIN PROPER WORK/ LIFE BALANCE especially when working from home 6 LIMIT ALCOHOL 7 REDUCE STRESS 8 TAKE BREAKS FROM SCREENS

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We’ve had most of the year to become professional homebodies. Isn’t a season with shorter days and colder nights the perfect time to put our new skills to good use? Still, we could all use some help in lifting our spirits (bottled spirits are a great place to start). Here, a guide for everyone who’s staying in. After all, there’s no place like home for the holidays (and we know you’re not traveling anywhere, anyway).

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dress

THE PART getting cozy never looked so good 1 UGG Fluffette slipper; $89.95. Nordstrom, The SoNo Collection; nordstrom.com 2 JOHN ELLIOTT Escobar heather gray lounge pant; $248. Mitchells, Westport; mitchellstores.com 3 TORY BURCH Striped poncho; $358. Greenwich; toryburch.com 4 JENNI KAYNE Shearling slide sandal; $325. jennikayne.com 5 KERRI ROSENTHAL Oversized patchwork cashmere hoodie; $448. Westport; kerrirosenthal.com 6 MOTHER DENIM Busy Doin’ Nothing socks; $24. Penfield Collective, Fairfield; penfieldcollective.com 7 EUGENIA KIM Maryn knotted headband; $145. modaoperandi.com 8 JOIE Jorja sweater; $328. Greenwich; joie.com 9 SKIN Double layer pant; $148. Soleil Toile, New Canaan, Westport; soleiltoile.com

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2020 STAMFORD

shop / H OLIDAY GIFT GUIDE

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set the SCENE

a house warming starter set

1 MITCHELL GOLD + BOB WILLIAMS Herringbone throw; $260. Greenwich; mgbwhome.com 2 SANTA MARIA NOVELLA Pot Pourri; $35. Navy Lobster, Greenwich 3 THE USB LIGHTER COMPANY USB rechargeable lighter; $38. Back 40 Mercantile, Old Greenwich; back40mercantile.com 4 JØRGEN RASMUSSEN Sheepskin throw 23.6” x 41.3”; $95. Design WIthin Reach, Stamford, Westport; dwr.com 5 TELLEFSEN ATELIER Wildflower mug; $55.Wee Mondine, Darien; weemondine.com 6 DIPTYQUE Small candle holder in gold by Osanna Visconti; $1,750. diptyqueparis.com 7 OLD MAN MCKITTRICK’S Hello Lily Rose candle; $42. Hickory & Tweed, Armonk; hickoryandtweed.com 8 CHRONICLE BOOKS Hygge & West Home: Design for a Cozy Life; $35. Eleish van Breems Home, Westport; evbantiques.com 9 FARMHOUSE POTTERY Fatwood firestarter bag; $32. West Elm, Westport; westelm.com

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3 AT YOUR

leisure 7

it’s all fun and games (and puzzles, lots of puzzles)

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1 PRINTWORKS Classic Domino set; $32. verishop.com 2 CHRONICLE BOOKS Gin Rummy playing cards; $14.99. Anthropologie, Westport; anthropologie.com 3 SMITH STREET BOOKS Bowie Bingo; $29.95. smithstreetbooks.com 4 RIZZOLI Tiger King puzzle; $14.95. Elm Street Bookstore, New Canaan; elmstreetbooks.com 5 CAVALLINI AND CO. Vintage succulents puzzle; $22. Terrain, Westport; shopterrain.com 6 AREAWARE Little puzzle thing; $15. areaware.com 7 SUNNYLIFE Mega jumbling tower game; $110. sunnylife.com 8 OMY Ultra washable markers; $17. maisonette.com 9 HYGGE GAMES I’m Not Saying You’re Stupid; $20. Beehive, Fairfield; thebeehivefairfield.com 10 JONATHAN ADLER Harlequin 2-in-1 game set; $25. jonathanadler.com

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2020 STAMFORD

shop / H OLIDAY GIFT GUIDE

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spa-TIFY

the relaxing music and cucumber water are optional

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1 LE LABO Body scrub; $48. Greenwich; lelabofragrances.com 2 SERENA & LILY Positano linen robe; $128. Westport; serenaandlily.com 3 AESOP Gentle deep-cleansing duo; $100. Greenwich; aesop.com 4 SAVVY + GRACE Luxe hot water bottle; $29.95. Westport; savvyandgracewestport.com 5 TRIUMPH & DISASTER Ritual face cleanser; $30.Organachs Farm to Skin, Westport; organachsfarmtoskin.com 6 STRANGE BIRD Inner Light moisturizer; $78. Inner Light, Darien; innerlight-wellness.com 7 MZ SKIN Light therapy golden facial treatment device; $625. Bluemercury, Darien, Greenwich, New Canaan, Westport; bluemercury.com 8 JOANNA VARGAS Magic Glow Wand; $285. joannavargas.com

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singular in design “Edgy incarnations of luxury” Condé Nast Traveler

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shop / H OLIDAY GIFT GUIDE

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dining

no reservations necessary

7 8 1 RIZZOLI The Perfect Kitchen; $55. Waterworks, Greenwich; waterworks.com 2 MATER Double bottle; $190. shophorne.com 3 FLOUR BAKERY Assorted frozen cookie dough; $89.95. Williams Sonoma, Westport; williams-sonoma.com 4 BRIGHTLAND The Duo, 100% Extra Virgin Olive Oil; $74. brightland.com 5 CARL AUBOCK Hand beer opener; $195. The Glass House Design Store, New Canaan; designstore.theglasshouse.org 6 JULISKA Graham bar tool set; $198. Stamford; juliska.com 7 LSA Paddle tapas set; $145. The Perfect Provenance, Greenwich; theperfectprovenance.com 8 TERRA KAFFE TK-01 espresso machine; $775. store.moma.org S

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The Westy Experience… “Excellent — very clean and comfortable, reasonable prices, and very kind.”

ROUNDABOUT

— KO, Stamford

COUTURE NEW + RESALE Since 1989

Greenwich, Westport New York City

roundaboutcouture.com NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2020 STAMFORD

GET LIT!

TWO WOMEN GONE MISSING. FAMILIES IN TURMOIL. A CRIME THAT NEVER TOOK PLACE. HERE ARE THREE MUST-READS THAT WILL GRAB YOUR ATTENTION AND KEEP YOU TURNING THE PAGES WAY PAST YOUR BEDTIME by emily liebert

DON’T LOOK FOR ME BY WENDY WALKER

ANXIOUS PEOPLE BY FREDRIK BACKMAN

INVISIBLE GIRL BY LISA JEWELL

ackman, the No. 1 New York Times bestselling author of A Man Called Ove, delivers an emotionally charged comedy about an almost bank robber who evaporates into thin air and the eight highly anxious strangers he leaves behind. Simply stated, it’s a crime that never took place. Apartment hunting isn’t a matter of life or death for most people. But when a failed bank robber storms into an open house and takes the eight strangers hostage, they’re forced to reveal hidden truths about themselves. There’s Zara, a bank director, whose life has been struck by tragedy and now she’s fixated on frequenting open houses to see how regular people live and, also, to right a wrong that’s been plaguing her. Julia and Ro, a lesbian couple awaiting a baby, can’t agree on anything and fear that their future together may not be as successful as they’d hoped. Roger and Anna-Lena are retired and obsessed with finding a fixer-upper they can fill with Ikea furniture as a means of ignoring the fact that their marriage may be unrepairable. And Estelle, who’s eighty years old and lying about her daughter and husband.

wen Pick’s life is unraveling. He’s just been suspended from his job as a teacher, on the heels of a sexual misconduct claim, which he vehemently denies. Not to mention that he’s a thirty-something-year-old virgin, living in his aunt’s spare bedroom. Across the street, lives the Fours family, consisting of mom, Cate, a physiotherapist, and dad, Roan, a child psychologist. And they don’t particularly like Owen, especially after their teenaged daughter insists he followed her home from the train station. In the meantime, a young woman named Saffyre Maddox—who was Roan Fours’ patient for three years—is feeling forsaken when their therapy ends and she’s desperate to maintain her connection with Roan. Surreptitiously, she follows him and ends up learning more than she expected about Roan and the Fours family, until Valentine’s night when Saffyre disappears. Unfortunately for Owen, he was the last person to see her alive. This shockingly twisted thriller about a group of people whose lives unexpectedly intersect when a woman vanishes will have you on the edge of your seat until the very end.

EDITOR'S NOTE If you like these suggestions, don't forget this columnist's own new book: PERFECTLY FAMOUS. This suspenseful thriller is set in Connecticut. Makes a great gift for the readers on your list! stamfordmag.com

CONTRIBUTED

hey call it a “walk away” when women disappear, urgent to exchange their lives for a fresh start. Apparently, it happens all the time, just as it did for grief-stricken wife and mother Molly Clarke, when her car was abandoned miles from home and a note was found at a nearby hotel, leaving her family shattered. Molly clearly does not want to be found. Or so the story goes. But is that really what happened? Molly’s daughter, Nicole, isn’t convinced, despite their challenging relationship—especially when a new lead is introduced two weeks after they’ve stopped searching for her mother. Nicole finds out that there was another woman who went missing from their same small town and also unearths a covert and isolated property, bringing her closer to the truth about what happened the night Molly vanished. This story is “about a woman with a tragic past and seemingly bleak future. A woman who has a flash about walking away from her life. A woman who takes a ride from a man and his young daughter, who reminds her of the child she lost years before,” explains Walker. “Molly’s disappearance and her daughter’s desperate search to find her fill the pages with twists, turns and unexpected revelations. But at its heart, this is a story about grief, acceptance and the power of redemption.”

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12 th Annual Greenwich Reindeer Festival NOVEMBER 27–DECEMBER 22 Hosted by

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G r e e n w i c h r e i n d e e r F e s t i va l . c o m NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2020 STAMFORD

left: Founder Jesse Levin above: The Readiness Collective teaches practical skills in a setting that is not intimidating—seen here, hanging seats, community table and, far left, the medical area with emergency-kit and go-bag training

GET READY

THE READINESS COLLECTIVE , BY TACTIVATE, LAUNCHES TO PROVIDE PREPAREDNESS TRAINING FROM EXPERTS IN OUR MIDST by diane sembrot

top: The check-in area and, at right, the training area for homesteading skills below: The space for Community Emergency Readiness Workshops

andemic. Hurricane. Tornado sightings. Major power outages. Winter on the horizon. Jesse Levin, a Staples grad, timed his new business well. He runs Tactivate (an advisory firm that applies emergency-response expertise to prep individuals, businesses and communities and deploys expeditionary entrepreneurial capabilities in the aftermath of disasters), and its new offshoot: The Readiness Collective. “Through our parent initiative, Tactivate, we have been conducting disaster-response and economic-stability efforts worldwide for over a decade,” he says. “We have worked with leading experts from military Special Operations personnel to communications, water-purification and supply-chain specialists. We are curating the best trainers, gear providers and subject-matter experts to teach classes, offer insight and provide training and outfitting for our community in a new breed of schoolhouse and training club.” The takeaway: Don’t wait until something happens—work out scenarios and responses ahead of time. “EMT-B training, for example,”

stamfordmag.com

he says, “sounds like a heavy lift, but it really is doable. How about learning to use a chainsaw safely or how to operate the generator you purchased and never unboxed? If you don’t have a generator, purchase one and learn about the different types, gas shelf life versus diesel or solar versus other systems.” The business is all about preparedness. “We launch ventures hand in hand with military Special Operations veterans and use the cash flow to sponsor teams to conduct disasterresponse and emergency economic-stability operations worldwide,” Levin says of the broad strokes. But if that sounds heavy, take heart, because he’s bringing preparedness to the masses. “Our main focus through all privatesector projects has been experimenting with how to really socialize ‘readiness’ in a non-militaristic, prepper or fringe manner to make the skills more palatable and accessible.” So, while skills are important when a threat looms large, so too is understanding that an effective response is linked to the community. “People should get to know their neighbors, come to understand what resources and »

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GREENWICH WINTER ANTIQUES & DESIGN SHOW

DECEMBER 2–4, 2020

Presented online by InCollect

TOGETHER AT HOME

The Greenwich Historical Society’s premier annual fundraiser celebrating design, decorative arts, architecture and landscapes, presented in a new content–rich virtual format.

TICKETS ON SALE NOW greenwichhistory.org/antiquarius All the best of Antiquarius- online- with engaging virtual panels and workshops featuring top local designers. Plus, daily email content celebrating Greenwich retailers, entertainers & designers, a special festive gingerbread kit, our annual Festival of Tabletop Trees and candlelit Bush-Holley House tours.

HOLIDAY HOUSE TOUR

Celebrating the work of designers Patrick Mele, Charlotte Barnes, and Heather Georges

DESIGNER PANEL

Presented by Douglas VanderHorn Architects

HOLIDAY ENTERTAINING WORKSHOP

With decorating & entertaining guru Eddie Ross

HOLIDAY BOUTIQUE

Curated local and popup boutiques for festive shopping

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2020 STAMFORD

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Celebrating was a virtual success! SPECIAL THANKS TO ALL OF OUR 2020 SPONSORS PRESENTING SPONSORS

EXCLUSIVE GIFT BAG SPONSOR

EXCLUSIVE AWARD SPONSOR

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ALL IMAGES, INCLUDING RENDERING BY RYAN STUDIO ARCHITECTURE, PROVIDED BY THE READINESS COLLECTIVE

do skills exist on their street and work to fill any gaps,” Levin says. “Maybe someone has a whole-house generator, while someone else is a doctor, and yet another neighbor is an arborist. Cultivate community, learn to be capable, have backup power and start training to be a provider and protector versus a dependent.” (Ouch, but true.) “Make it an adventure and bring in your family or group of friends to train in readiness disciplines. Most important, wherever you decide to go, seek training, make friends, cultivate community and prepare as if the community depended on you.” So why have emergency pros? “The best way to support first responders is to reduce the burden on them,” he explains. The key is to be more self-reliant. He wants to show you how. “Purchasing a prepackaged medical kit, a mountain of toilet paper, thousands of rounds of ammunition and firearms does not equate to preparedness. Much of the information presented publicly in the vein of ‘prepping’ and survival is focused on isolating and a we-vs-they mentality. In actuality, as anyone that has been through a major disaster will tell you, it takes a community,” he says. The Readiness Collective, serving as a hub for teaching new skills and connecting one another, focuses on ensuring people and businesses are not just reacting, but are proactive. In short, it covers “situational awareness, medical, communications, logistics, group dynamics, equipment to homesteading and mental and physical resilience” on-site, with “high-touch customized training and outfitting.” Translation: You won’t be sitting in a chair. “We are now bringing together over a decade of both brick-and-mortar venture launch and disaster-response expertise to launch the first emergency-readiness training club and gear gallery and outfitter in the country. This will be an emergency-readiness trade school of sorts and social club to bring best-in-class trainers, equipment and expertise to the community. The good news is readiness is a lifestyle and discipline is a blast to cultivate.” While learning medical skills, how to operate a HAM radio, and what to pack in a vehicle emergency kit, people are making

Emergency Readiness is a discipline and a practice that requires cultivation, no different than diet and exercise. It’s a team sport. jesse levin, founder

above: The plans for the new venture show the various training stations, from vehicle preparedness to body/mind focus techniques

PREPARE, DON'T PANIC “From Tequila and Tourniquets, our famous Happy Hour medical class, to learning how to build chicken coops or set up emergency solar generators and panels, this is the first social club for readiness. Topics range from navigation, off-grid communication, medical skills, social movement theory to breath control, food security and trade skills like how to change a tire, build a water collection system and more.” —Founder Jesse Levin

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2020 STAMFORD

connections. “We facilitate social collisions through training and gatherings among first responders, veterans, creatives, business owners, etc., so there will be familiarity, connectivity and a baseline competency,” he says, “creating a more collective and capable group dynamic.” Launching at the SoNo Collection, it even offers certifications. More at readinesscollective.com and tactivate.com.

eat

N E W R E S TA U R A N T

THE HAPPY PLACE TACO DADDY’S SISTER RESTAURANT, THE LILA ROSE, BRINGS UPSCALE WHIMSICAL TO STAMFORD by georget te yac oub

hef Maurice “Mo” Major is standing over a flaming burner in the back of Taco Daddy (tacodaddystamford.com). He is calm, unfazed by the bustle of servers and sous chefs yelling, “Behind you!” as they maneuver their way around the kitchen. He is hypnotically stirring seafood risotto, a dish he is testing out for Taco Daddy’s new sister restaurant, The Lila Rose. “This looks like a classic dish,” says Chef Mo, never raising his eyes from the pan, “but it goes in another direction and blows your mind with the heat and the concentration of the seafood sauce.” He looks up and stops stirring. “It’s really, really funky. Usually risotto is made with Parmesan, but we’ll use cotija, because I’m a nonconformist,” he laughs. When the risotto is finally finished, Chef Mo plates it in a tapas-sized cast iron dish. He mixes in cold butter, then tops it with more cotija and meaty chunks of lobster. And it delivers. The risotto is creamy with the right amount of bite, all the flavors come through in full force, and the plate takes a turn with spice that reveals itself only moments after the first mouthful. Chef Mo takes a bite, claps his hands and dubs the dish The Angry Lobster Risotto. “I’m going to tell you something. It’s all about transmitting the love to the food,”

he says as he puts his hands on his heart and then over the plate. “With each stir, I envision people eating and,” he smiles, “losing their f***ing minds.” Chef Mo is a classically trained chef who joined Taco Daddy in May as partner and head chef. Now, Morgan and John Nealon, Chef Mo, and the rest of the restaurant group is onto their second undertaking, The Lila Rose. The Lila Rose resides near Taco Daddy in the Harbor Point area of Stamford. The concept, developed by Morgan Nealon, is small plates that breaks away from traditional Spanish-style tapas. The idea is to get back to how people eat with their families and friends: “Just a bunch of delicious food on a table that you share with everyone.” That said, you won’t find traditional dishes. “We don’t want our menu to be full of things you can easily eat at home,” Morgan says. “Classics are classics for a reason, but the idea behind The Lila Rose is to elevate and add an element of surprise to those dishes.” Think grits, pastas, croquettes, empanadas—all done nontraditionally, but with the touch of Chef Mo’s classical training. As for cocktails, David Cohade, partner and bar manager, is running the program. While the cocktail program at Taco Daddy,

which David helps run, is whimsical and approachable, The Lila Rose menu is a bit more classic. Take, for example, the Gina & Georgina, a booze-forward cocktail mixed with thyme vermouth and bitters. “The idea is to make the drinks sensory-heavy,” says David. “We don’t want you to have a drink and say, ‘That’s sweet’. We want to hit all the palate notes so nothing is one-dimensional.” David concocts, tests, changes and perfects every cocktail with meticulous detail, and Morgan and John name them. The duo comes up with a bunch of clever cocktail names related to their life, and once the cocktail list is finalized, they plug them where they fit. “If I called it a Basil Daiquiri, no one would order it,” says John, “but if I called it Call Her Daddy, everyone wants to.” The dining room is also unique. The floor is a whimsical geometric pattern of pastel pinks and blues, the tableware and décor drip in gold and the seating is lush pink velvet. It’s a dining room you’d expect to see in New York City. “People are scared to get super creative with their dining rooms,” says John. “You should take your service, food, and drink seriously so there’s no reason why your dining room shouldn’t be as cool. Vibe is a real thing,” he says, “and it’s a throwaway at most restaurants.”

Classics are classics for a reason, but the idea behind The Lila Rose is to elevate and add an element of surprise to those dishes. MORGAN NEALON, CO-OWNER

stamfordmag.com

PHOTOGRAPHY: INTERIORS BY RAENAH FARINA; FOOD COURTESY TACODADDYS INSTAGRAM @ TACODADDYANDTHELILAROSE

above: The pink and gold decor sets the stage for a fun, playful place for food, drinks and friends

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2020 STAMFORD

fınance fıx

MONEY / BY CAROL LEONETTI DANNHAUSER

THE PAY OFF

THE (NOT SO) SECRETS OF THE ULTRA-RICH THAT ALL OF US SHOULD KNOW

ooking at your neighbors and wondering, Why are they so rich? It’s probably not off-shore hideaways, start-up equity or complicated alternative investments. The “secrets” of the rich sound like practices of the comfortable, with a few tweaks. High-net-worth households (more than $1 million in liquid assets) are not hard to find here. According to Census statistics, our state counts more than 100,000, with concentrated pockets in Fairfield County. Ultra-high-net worth households (with more than $30 million in liquid assets) seem like a different breed altogether. Yet their strategies for money management can be remarkably similar, says Scott Patten, senior advisor at Northeast Financial Consultants in Westport, which serves high-net-worth and ultrahigh-net-worth clients and counts more than $3.3 billion in assets under management. Often, these clients exercise “a holistic approach” to their saving, spending, investing and tax management. “It’s not reaching for the stars and there’s no magical cure-all,” he says. “It’s save and invest over time.”

index funds or exchange-traded funds. With your credit cards, opt for low to no annual fees and a cash-back option. Yes, Patten assures, the rich get cash back on their cards, “and they have it deposited into a brokerage account.” Pay off your credit cards each month. Look to refinance your mortgage if you’re paying 4 percent or more. And “don’t overreach on your spending,” he says. Don’t buy the bigger house, the vacation home or the fancy car if you have to dip into an account you’re targeting for another goal. Spread out your savings. Don’t limit your savings to retirement accounts. Financial security later in life is only part of the equation. Start a simple investment account using whatever money you can spare. “When people think of large numbers, it tends to act as a mental block in their ability to get started. But when you get started with small numbers—$50 a month, then $100, then $200— it makes a huge difference. Over time that continues to build on its own, as long as you’re not pulling it out.”

Put Junior to work. “For children earning summer income, I recommend they start a Roth right out of the gate. Put at least half their earnings in.,” he says. “That long-term tax-free compounding helps you grow tax-free wealth. It’s continuous, a bit here and there.”

Generate passive income. Get money working for you, growing on its own, whether in brokerage accounts, real estate, rental income, side businesses. The more sources, the better. “The idea is to get it in a position to grow on its own.” S

Watch your fees. The rich can be penny-pinchers. Do what they do and keep costs and spending to a minimum. In your investments, aim for low-cost or no-load options, such as S&P 500 or NASDAQ

stamfordmag.com

THE PLAN Beware the Invisible Predator: TAXES Your assets can grow, grow, grow, but a tax bill between you and liquidity could mean a lot less money than you anticipated. The rich don’t cut corners when it comes to strategic tax planning, says Patten. “Taxes are such a huge part of wealth management. How you structure your assets should always be taken from a tax perspective. You have to be fluent in that.” Nuances in the tax law dictate whether to sell a great investment, exercise stock options or pull forward your bonus, and how to structure trusts and estate plans. “It’s your money. Ask questions and stay on top of the news,” he says. “Educate yourself.”

PORTRAIT, CONTRIBUTED; TAX PREP ©DEVRIM_PINAR - STOCK.ADOBE.COM

Scott Patten

Start early. Wealth is built over time. Many of our millionaire neighbors started simply: making money, saving some of it and investing that savings. As weeks turned to months, to years and to decades, return on their investments compounded. Says Patten, fancy investments and hedge funds are “not the panacea. Building wealth is diligence over time. Come up with structures where you’re minimizing your fees, minimizing your tax impact and contributing over time.” If you’re just starting out, try to contribute to your 401(k) at least to a match level, Patten says. Max out your Health Savings Account and invest the HSA money. Pay medical bills out-of-pocket, while your HSA grows tax-free. When you’re older and you need the money for medical costs, you can pull it out with no tax consequence.

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NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2020 STAMFORD

The

Awards

Celebrating our COVID-19 heroes T HURSDAY • D EC E M BE R 3 • 5:45 - 6 :45 P.M.

When unprecedented times struck, so many in the community sprung into action. JOIN US ONLINE to celebrate the extraordinary work of our nonprofits, businesses and volunteers.

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Table Talk t h e C OV I D C O N V E R S AT I O N

PHOTOGRAPHY: CAPPELLI AND LATORRACA FAMILY, CONTRIBUTED; GENARRO AND CANNELLA BY YVONNE ALBINOSKI; SELDENS BY PHILLIP VAN NOSTRAND

Chef/owners on takeout, pick-up and other impacts of Covid-19

Walter Cappelli Table 104

Julio Genarro, Katie Cannella Prime

Robin, Marcia, Jeffrey Selden Marcia Selden Catering

The Latorraca Family The Waters Edge at Giovanni's

amaraderie and cuisine have always been among the most remarkable things about Stamford. They go hand in hand and continue to evolve and inspire—and they have never been more appreciated than they are now. Throughout the pandemic, “the city that works” has had to find a way to do its work despite restrictions. So, as the holiday season approaches, restaurants and caterers are adapting to the times and finding ways to fill the family table. Stamford magazine spoke to a few well-known local food professionals who have seen it all and asked them about how they have faced the challenges of changing regulations and what they are planning for the seasonal festivities. b y j o e y m a c a r i

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2020 STAMFORD

PHOTOGRAPHY BY THOMAS MCGOVERN

t h e C OV I D C O N V E R S AT I O N

left: Pizza Napoletana with favorite toppings, prosciutto, olives and arugula right: The 104 Burger with onion -bacon jam

Table 104

e’re daydreaming about all the things we’ll be able to do once Covid is over. That destination wedding that’s been postponed. That much-deserved vacation. A relaxing Tuscan villa overlooking the Duomo, perhaps? Look no further than Table 104 (table104stamford.com) for the authentic, Italian experience we all crave, especially now. Stamford has relied on Table 104 for ladies lunches, romantic dinners and celebratory brunches

times,” Walter says. “We have limited our seating indoors to less than the 50 percent allowed in order to keep everyone at the six-foot distance mandated from the CDC. The Plexiglas bar with patio will be partially enclosed and heated but still have a feel of outdoor and perhaps keep guests feeling safe.” In addition to its usual online ordering system, the restaurant will be introducing the Family Package option in its online ordering process, just in time for the upcoming holidays. The package will include larger plates that can be ordered and enjoyed right away and/or refrigerated for up to a five-day period and can be processed through the

since its grand opening in 2014. The dynamic trio—Owner/ Restaurateur Walter Cappelli, Chef Domenico Lovieno and Chef Enzo Bruno—ensure that our city gets to experience and enjoy its seaside favorites, like grilled octopus with artichoke vinaigrette, Neapolitan-style pizzas topped with prosciutto and honey truffle (a Tuscan staple) and simple-yet-refined entrees like rigatoni bolognese topped with a generous amount of parmigiano. The restaurant serves favorites seven days a week while adhering to proper guidelines. “Table 104 is dedicated to the safeguard of our guests and staff to withstand these difficult

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online ordering service on the restaurant’s website or by phone. For the perfect rustic scenery for an office party or family gathering, they are also hosting private events with a maximum of fifty guests outdoors and twenty-five indoors. A major part of its reopening is thanks not only to Table 104’s loyal fans, but also, Walter shares, to the unwavering loyalty and commitment of the restaurant’s staff. Speaking for Enzo, Domenico and himself, he says, “We felt it was important to reopen, not only to reassure our guests that their neighborhood restaurant is well, but also because together we will survive.”

Table 104 is dedicated to the safeguard of our guests and staff to withstand these difficult times. walter cappelli, owner/restaurateur

FA M I L Y T I M E ! For Family Package details and online ordering, go to the website or call 203-388-8898, and check them out on Instagram:

@TABLE104_ OSTERIABAR

PHOTOGRAPHY BY THOMAS MCGOVERN

for specials and more.

above, left: Salad with fried egg for a brunch option right: American meets Mediterranean in this rustic tablescape below, left: meatballs never fail to satisfy

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2020 STAMFORD

t h e C OV I D C O N V E R S AT I O N

right: Executive Chef Julio Genarro and General Manager Katie Cannella below: Prime's seafood tower

Prime

ince its harborside debut in 2016, Prime (stamford .restaurantprime.com) has conquered the surf, tackled the turf and given Stamford an ocean-inspired dining experience locals have come to depend on. Sheila Haile, director of marketing for the Bohlsen Restaurant Group (BRG), shared with us what Prime General Manager Katie Cannella and Executive Chef Julio Genarro are doing to keep the restaurant thriving over the holidays. “Reopening required an extensive review of our staff, our space and our menu,” Sheila says. “We went to great lengths to ensure we were able to execute according to the new restrictions, adjusting our layout, adding

additional seating and adjusting the layout of our patio. Our menu was streamlined so we could remain fluid and maintain the regulated time per guest experience.” In addition to its plush indoor and outdoor seating and the chef-curated Market

To-Go butchery, Prime has streamlined its takeout services. “We implemented a new online ordering platform for all of our restaurants. The platform allows ordering direct from social media,” she says. With an app also in development, catering for small parties and family gatherings will be simple. As the restaurant has endured the recent hardships, they are making sure that the less fortunate in our community get the help they need. Prime’s website has a link to BRG, which provides relief funds to furloughed employees and critical workers. Donations are made through two outreach channels: Feeding Heroes (a response community that provides donated meals to local medical and emergency workers) and Buddy Box (a program that supplies a weekly box of food and essentials to struggling families).

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BRG, which owns Prime among other properties, recently made a nearly $100,000 investment in new high-tech Merv 13 air-filtration systems, which can capture up to 85 percent of coronavirus particles indoors. They are also installing UV lighting, as an additional measure. Co-owners Kurt and Michael Bohlsen agreed that the business is known for a highquality dining experience, and that means health and safety measures above state-suggested requirements. Prime Stamford will have the high-tech HVAC system in the cabana bar space, creating an enclosed alfresco dining space with retractable clear walls to enjoy the views, free of wind and rain.

PHOTOGRAPHY: CHEF AND KATIE BY YVONNE ALBINOSKI; FOOD BY JIM LENNON; SEAFOOD TOWER COURTESY PRIMES INSTAGRAM ACCOUNT

Safety First

CHECK THIS OUT! Check out Primeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Instagram:

@PRIMESTAMFORD f o r e v e nt s i n f o, to-go updates and more!

Wine with a bone-in ribeye and a porterhouse

YVONNE ALBINOSKI

Reopening required an extensive review of our staff, our space and our menu. We went to great lengths to ensure we were able to execute according to the new restrictions, adjusting our layout, adding additional seating and adjusting the layout of our patio. sheila haile, director of marketing for the Bohlsen Restaurant Group

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2020 STAMFORD

Marcia Selden Catering

global pandemic won’t stop the holidays. After all, this is a time of year for gratitude, love and good cheer. Marcia Selden—who comes to Stamford by way of Brooklyn and has lived here for forty-four years— has a healthy perspective on the outlook for a merry and bright holiday season. Her family-run business, Marcia Selden Catering, has been serving clients for more than forty-plus years. “I’ve always had big dreams and

from left: Robin Selden, Marcia Selden and Jeffrey Selden

plans for Marcia Selden Catering and, despite a pandemic, I will continue to trail-blaze through, make those plans and create incredible memories for our clients. Our food brings so much happiness to people as it’s made with love, and they can feel it,” says the founder and CEO with get-it-done attitude. “We’ve embraced the socially distanced party and definitely changed the way we present our food, even if it’s arriving as a party in a box, I guarantee that you will feel that love.” Best known for its attention to detail, in-season ingredients, exquisite plating and impeccable service, the business benefits from experienced leadership. Managing Partner and Executive

Chef Robin Selden has inherited her mother’s optimism. She reassures customers that as long as there’s a need, Marcia Selden will herald new and creative ways to feed the community. “You cannot take hospitality and the love of entertaining out of someone when that’s what they truly are. We bring hope to humanity and evoke joy through our food, with or without our exquisite service,” she says of traditional and new catering options. “People are longing to be together, so we are paving the way, setting safe social standards and establishing entertaining routines so that our clients feel safe at our catered events.” Robin’s brother, Managing Partner Jeffrey Selden, adds:

“Over the last several months, our clients have enjoyed entertaining safely outdoors, with carefully planned parties, intimate weddings, mitzvahs, birthdays and milestone celebrations. In addition to our custom catered experiences, which we are known for, specifically, we will provide a turn-key Dinner Party, complete with unique and curated menus, custom-printed menu cards, tabletop rentals that are designed based on the menu theme, florals to complement the tabletop, awesome wines and specialty crafted cocktails. Our thought was to take the stress and the work out of entertaining and to provide our clients with everything that they need to host just the perfect dinner party at home.” Covid will change the holiday season for all of us, including the pros. They’ll have to navigate this uncertain time as they continue to find ways to make entertaining a joy for their clients. Marcia Selden faces the challenge straight on. “We have been strategizing, reinventing and reimagining our business since Friday the thirteenth of March— fitting, right? While there is breath in my body, we will do every creative thing possible to come through this pandemic stronger, wiser and better than we were before,” says Robin. “It’s not an option for us not to as we have a dedicated and amazing team that is working their tails off to insure this and they are counting on having their jobs on the other side of this mess. We have incredible loyal clients that still need to celebrate life’s moments and we will be there for each and every one of them.”

PHILLIP VAN NOSTRAND

t h e C OV I D C O N V E R S AT I O N

MUST SEE! For up-to-date offerings and services, visit their website or Instagram:

@ MARCIA SELDENCATERING

PHOTOGRAPHY BY ANDREAS & NICO/NYC

Selections from their latest creation, Dinner Party—complete entertaining packages

We’ve embraced the socially distanced party and definitely changed the way we present our food, even if it’s arriving as a party in a box, I guarantee that you will feel that love. marcia selden, founder and CEO

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2020 STAMFORD

The Waters Edge at Giovanni's

lancing into The Waters Edge at Giovanni’s (watersedgeat giovannis. com), a typical snapshot of the dining room would feature the clicking of glasses filled with top-shelf wines and spirits, the passing of clams oreganata and a cooked- to-perfection chateaubriand. Its event space is an entertainment centerfold portraying upbeat weddings, celebrations and other moments

above: Loin lamb chops below: The Latorraca Family

of togetherness. The private dining room, or Cantina di Giovanni as it’s better known, is a tablescape fit for Medici himself. It’s old world made new: an aesthetic that’s taken on new layers within the past year. When JoAnn took over her father Giovanni’s business a year ago with her husband, Sal Latorraca, they strived to keep the legacy moving and thriving, despite Covid’s challenges. “We are committed to keeping our staff, customers and family safe,” JoAnn shares. “We are following the guidelines to the best of our ability while understanding the everchanging rules and will continue to be serving outdoors at a minimum distance of six-feet apart because it has proven to be safe.” While customers can find comfort in knowing the restaurant is doing its due diligence, they will also be happy to know that they have an at-home option. “For Thanksgiving, we will be doing Thanksgiving to-go. Order your oven-ready turkey with all the trimmings in two different sizes and have dinner at home,” she says. As for bringing the party to Giovanni’s, small-event spaces can be reserved to upwards of 25 indoors and 100 outdoors, per CDC guidelines (check for updates online). “We miss seeing the smiles on satisfied customers during their events,” JoAnn laments. However, despite the changes, Waters Edge believes hope and hospitality are their strongest assets. “There are days when we think of giving up, but we look at the faces of our employees and customers, who we think of as family, and know we need to be here for one another. We are all in this together and together we will survive!”

CONTRIBUTED

t h e C OV I D C O N V E R S AT I O N

TRY THIS! For up-to-date offerings and services, visit their website or Instagram:

Double-stacked seafood plates for those who love shrimp, oysters, lobsters, crab and more.

@ WATERSEDGE GIOVANNIS

There are days when we think of giving up, but we look at the faces of our employees and customers, who we think of as family, and know we need to be here for one another. We are all in this together and together we will survive! CONTRIBUTED

joann latorraca, co-owner of The Waters Edge at Giovanniâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2020 STAMFORD

margaret tjimos goldberg

david rabin

alison sherman

LIGHT A Honoring those who went ABOVE and BEYOND

lana gifas

dave kuban

marc jaffe

nicole straight

bob granata

ria rueda

david kuban

FIRE by jill johnson mann | phot o gr aphs by mel ani lust

danielle blaine

2020

in UNPRECEDENTED TIMES stephanie webster

pj johns

michele conderino

e have honored our Light a Fire winners—our admirable neighbors who donate their time, money and passion to myriad causes—for thirteen years, but this year is like no other. This year, when the COVID-19 pandemic put Fairfield County in the eye of the storm, most of us just wanted to curl up in a ball with a laptop and Netflix subscription and wait it out. Authorities gave us an excuse, even a command, to stay at home. But brave people among us—some essential workers and others who determined volunteering was more essential than ever—masked up and did what our Light a Fire winners always do: put everyone else ahead of themselves. Only this time, going to work at a homeless shelter every day, delivering hot meals to families who usually depend on school for that, providing childcare to healthcare workers—these deeds carried with them the risk of grave illness and even death. To the organizations honored here, the people who run them and the volunteers who serve them: our deepest gratitude and thanks for all you have done and continue to do in these unprecedented times. One theme kept recurring during the interviews for this story—the struggle is not over. People have lost their livelihoods, homes, loved ones, and economic recovery will be slow. The need for food, shelter, support and hope will continue to be overwhelming this winter. Read about each of these organizations and consider where and how you might help. Perhaps you will find yourself in these pages next year.

Join us for a virtual celebration of our honorees hosted by James Naughton. 2020 Light A Fire

AWARDS

DECEMBER 3 /

THURSDAY 5:45-6:45PM stamfordmag.com

2020 Light A Fire

AWARD * HOMELESSNESS IMPACT *

ORGANIZATION

Open Doors MICHELE CONDERINO, Executive Director

WHAT WERE THE FIRST STEPS YOU TOOK WHEN THE PANDEMIC HIT IN MARCH? We evaluated our physical [shelter] space, made sure we had enough PPE to keep everyone safe and suspended our volunteer program. We had to find every way to reduce exposure to people and advocate with the state to hotel our guests. All of our older population were situated by late March and the rest of our population by April 6.

WHAT WERE THE BIGGEST CHALLENGES TO KEEPING YOUR CLIENTS SAFE? At the beginning, there was so much we didn’t know. We were reading constantly, seeing what the CDC was saying, and fine-tuning our policy daily and having a lot of honest conversations with clients. We explained: “You need to protect yourselves. We’ll do what we can, but it’s about the interactions you are having also.” I had a lot of fear as a leader; I wanted everybody to be safe. I worked on-site right through the pandemic; I don’t know how many hours. I felt it was important my staff knew I wasn’t asking them to do anything I wasn’t willing to do myself.

WORDS OF PRAISE

WHAT ARE THE ACCOMPLISHMENTS YOU ARE MOST PROUD OF FROM THESE MONTHS?

During unprecedented times, government officials mandated stay-at-home orders, but complying with that directive requires having a home,” says board member Barbara Blasso. “At the outset of the COVID-19 threat, Michele and her team quickly assessed the high risk of exposure given the shelter environment and took immediate steps to reduce the risk of transmission among our most vulnerable.

How this organization has taken on its mission and really seen it through. We understood that what we do can be the difference between life and death. We had to do everything we could to keep people safe, and the staff really bought into it. I said to them, “Fifty years from now we will talk about this moment. I’m really proud we helped people. I hope you are, too.”

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HOW ARE YOU PREPARING TO WEATHER WHAT THIS STORM MAY BRING IN 2021? With a lot of reality. Even through the darkest moments of COVID, I knew the real challenge would be over the next couple of years— as unemployment rates rise, extra benefits end and eviction moratoriums end. Our true test will be the long term. We have the highest number of housing placements in the county at this time. We have to decrease capacity due to social distancing. We do everything we can to move people forward; there is a line waiting for that bed. There is a lot of fear in that, not only from COVID but from the elements as we approach winter. It gives us a lot of motivation to do the best we can. »

Impressive Stats Open Doors has remained open throughout the pandemic Kept 40-plus homeless clients safely sheltered through the crisis Secured payroll funding to protect the salary of every staff member Spearheaded a plan for the future with other community leaders serving the homeless Continued to provide meals through its kitchen and pantry, pivoting to takeout Continued running its employment program

2020 Light A Fire

AWARD * GRASSROOTS IMPACT *

NICOLE STRAIGHT, Founder RIA RUEDA, ALISON SHERMAN, STEPHANIE WEBSTER, Cofounders ORGANIZATION

Food for the Front Lines

ni cole straight

HOW DID YOU COME UP WITH THE IDEA FOR FOOD FOR THE FRONT LINES? NICOLE STRAIGHT: My daughter called and said she was coming home from college. She is an EMT. Within three days at home, she was back doing her volunteer work. I started thinking, what can I do? Maybe I could buy

dollars had come in. I reached out to anyone who could connect me to the local ERs and it just started to snowball. Within a few days Stephanie Webster [founder of CT Bites] called me and said, “I love what you’re doing. I want to help. I know all the restaurants.” She created the logo and handled the social media. Ria Rueda [a PR professional] texted me: “I want in.” Alison Sherman [former communication manager at Food Rescue, current CEO of The IfLife Foundation] joined in soon after and helped with print and TV PR. Margorie Almansie at Social Venture Partners offered to help with the back end, paying the restaurants; sometimes we were buying 2,000 meals a day. A big shout out to Tim Roof and Raleigh Leahy, also at SVP. Soon people all over started reaching out saying, I want to do this. At one time there were four Food for the Front Lines going on around the state.

some meals for the EMT staff. I contacted Bill Taibe [chef and owner of several area restaurants] and asked if he’d be willing to make some boxed dinners. That’s how it started. I told my daughter, “Your service is what moved me to volunteer.”

HOW DID YOU EXECUTE YOUR PLAN? It wasn’t meant to be more than a one-night thing. But that initial bill was $750, so I posted on Facebook, asking if anyone wanted to contribute. By the next day, literally a few thousand

WORDS OF PRAISE

Food for the Front Lines raised money to pay restaurants to prepare food for Fairfield County hospitals and responders,” explains Monica Moore, one of several nominators of FFTFL. “They also helped start locations in New Haven, Hartford, Litchfield and Westchester counties. They then pivoted to raise money for pantry food essentials for unemployed restaurant workers, many of who are not getting unemployment, stimulus checks or food stamps. To date [August], they have hosted two food drives, feeding 3,200 people.

NOW THAT YOU’VE MOVED BACK TO YOUR HOME STATE, CALIFORNIA, HOW DO YOU REFLECT ON THIS EXPERIENCE HERE? I think it was the perfect storm. I was so lucky to have lived in

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Westport for twenty-one years. I have a lot of friends there. The moment was right. I will look back at COVID and remember we busted our butts for eight weeks and kept a lot of people employed. It was a remarkable thing the four of us were able to pull off.

Impressive Stats Raised over $130,000 in eight weeks Served over 12,000 meals to healthcare workers and first responders in Fairfield County in eight weeks Contracted with forty restaurants/caterers, helping them stay in business Served Bridgeport, St. Vincent’s, Norwalk, Stamford and Greenwich Hospitals, as well as first-responder units in Greenwich, Stamford, Trumbull, Danbury, Weston, Westport and Darien

WORDS OF PRAISE

Board member Juanita James raves about First County Bank’s response during the pandemic: “The staff worked around the clock to help complete applications, answer questions and get loans approved, when some banks weren’t even returning phone calls. They added staff to handle the additional volume so they could process as many loans as possible. For the second round, they anticipated the demand and went the extra mile. One employee was even prepared to come in at 12:01 a.m. to be ready as soon as the SBA portal reopened. larger banks and came to us. On the commercial side, we usually originate $100 million in loans in a year. It was a huge task to do the same amount in a few months. There were new rules coming out daily. Everyone pitched in, making sure we were all safe and had all the PPE we needed. No employee contracted the virus from an internal source. This honor is for our employees and board of directors. I applaud them.

WHAT LESSONS DO YOU THINK WE CAN ALL LEARN FROM THIS UNPRECEDENTED TIME? Recognizing that we are all in this together. We are a community, whether restaurants, the bakery down the street, the pizza joint. Perseverance is key. Being essential workers gave us a little privilege, but we were meant to be doing what we did. »

WHAT WAS THE RESPONSE FROM THE CUSTOMERS YOU HELPED? We are putting out ads with all the testimonials. We went out of the way to help them, and they’ve been ecstatic. Large banks couldn’t respond. With us, they could actually speak to a person and finalize a PPP loan, saving their businesses. We were also able to help nonprofits dramatically. That’s a testament to being a community bank. The founders were not looking to raise a profit; they wanted a bank to help foster and build the community. We’ve continued to honor that.

2020 Light A Fire

AWARD * SMALL-BUSINESS IMPACT *

ORGANIZATION

First County Bank

CAN YOU SHARE THE MOST MOVING EXPERIENCE DURING THIS TIME? I’m going to choke up, because I actually came down with the virus. I battled through it, but I had to go the hospital. Our team came together and stepped up, while I was off the phone for several days. We had built the foundation as a team together, and they followed through. Having COVID, being in the hospital—it was an emotional experience. I’m still emotional about it today.

BOB GRANATA, Executive Director

WHAT ARE YOU MOST PROUD OF IN TERMS OF FIRST COUNTY BANK’S IMPACT DURING THIS PANDEMIC? The most striking thing is how our employees pulled together

as essential workers, helping out an immense number of people, setting up consumers with online banking and debit cards, helping them pay bills online. People left

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Impressive Stats Originated 1,150 Paycheck Protection Program loans, totaling $125 million and protecting 10,000 jobs Donated 10,000 masks to Stamford and Norwalk hospitals Donated $10,000 to the COVID-19 Relief Fund Donated $8,000 to local shelters and food pantries Dedicated its annual Reyno A. Giallongo Jr. Award to frontline healthcare workers, with $5,000 donations each to Stamford, Norwalk, Greenwich, St. Vincent’s and Bridgeport hospitals

2020 Light A Fire

AWARD * OUTSTANDING VOLUNTEER *

PJ JOHNS, VOLUNTEER ORGANIZATION

Filling in the Blanks TELL US A LITTLE ABOUT FILLING IN THE BLANKS AND HOW YOU GOT INVOLVED? Shawnee Knight and Tina Kramer founded Filling in the Blanks to stamp out childhood hunger by providing meals to children in need on the weekends. I was their personal trainer, and we’ve been friends for over fifteen years. Whenever they’ve needed something, I’ve been available to them. I’ve helped out with backpacks for the holidays and putting together meal bags with Grace Community Church, where I’m a youth leader.

HOW HAVE THE NEEDS AND YOUR VOLUNTEER WORK RAMPED UP SINCE MARCH? The pandemic hit, and they called me to pick up meal bags and deliver them to churches. They were short staffed, so I stayed to help out. On March 23rd, I delivered 600 bags. I’ve been there ever since. Our group stayed small, with six of us working alongside each other for twenty-three weeks. It used to be just Fridays, but I saw the need and said, “We have to do this Monday, Wednesday, Friday.” Sometimes the town could only give one dinner to last two nights. I said, “One night these kids can’t be fed. Can we bring meal bags?” This is how Filling in the Blanks literally fills in the blanks. We also gave out boxes and boxes of detergent and grocery items.

WORDS OF PRAISE

For many who are frightened to leave their house due to the virus, volunteering is not an option. But not for PJ—he comes equipped with his backpack of masks, gloves, hand sanitizer and his trademark black hat on backwards to go out and help the community,” says Filling in the Blanks cofounder Tina Kramer. “His smile lights up a room, and he treats those who need help with dignity and honor. This is a beautiful soul who is giving selflessly of himself in this critical time.

WHAT WAS THE RESPONSE FROM THOSE YOU SERVED? There were a lot of proud people who couldn’t afford to eat for the first time in their lives. We greeted everyone with a smile, learned their names, and took care in what we were doing. We weren’t just handing out food; we were offering hope and encouragement. Some people came in wrecked. We tried to meet

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each person’s needs. An elderly Russian woman, Antonella, loved mac-n-cheese. I bought her thirty boxes, and she teared up when I gave them to her, saying “Thank you and God bless you,” over and over in Russian. She would bring us trinkets—we knew it was her way of saying she wanted to give also. We made cupcakes for kids’ birthdays. A mom told us, “You didn’t have to do this for my children. They will never forget it.” The community is forever changed. An act of kindness has a ripple effect for a long time.

LESSONS WE CAN LEARN FROM THIS TIME? I have a greater appreciation for even the smallest of things: If I want to go to Starbucks or the supermarket, I can. When you go through something difficult, concentrate on others—that’s how I was raised. God is there for you and will take care of you and your family. This time has given us a chance to pause, get closer to our families and help our neighbors. This was the most rewarding thing I could have done.

Impressive Stats PJ and his team of six handed out 147,459 meals, including 49,000 meal bags from Filling in the Blanks Volunteered on seventy days in a span of twenty-three weeks, for a total of 315 hours

WORDS OF PRAISE

During this difficult time, Women’s Mentoring Network realized that the WMN programs and services are needed now more than ever,” says board member Shirley Hu. “WMN is on the front lines of this pandemic, as it works with disadvantaged women who are seeking employment after losing their jobs as a result of the pandemic. HOW DID YOUR ORGANIZATION NEED TO PIVOT WHEN THE PANDEMIC HIT? We transferred all of our services over to the online platform. We are doing all of our workshops online and have more than doubled their frequency. We bring in professionals from the community—banks, companies, staffing agencies—to present to our clients. We have been helping the unemployed and underemployed for thirty years, but everything had to pivot: holding workshops two to three days a week, changing the focus to applying for unemployment and PPP loans, learning how to interview on Zoom. Our mentormentee program, which is thriving during this time, transitioned to virtual as well. Now is a good time for clients to reevaluate their situation and transform themselves. Any emails we send out now are more focused on getting our families through COVID. We are part of the Stamford Food Collaborative and Cradle to Career. We pivoted our United Way funding to a drivethrough food pantry.

2020 Light A Fire

AWARD * WOMEN’S IMPACT *

HOW HAVE YOU HELPED YOUR CLIENTS STAY ON THEIR FEET AS THIS CRISIS EXACERBATED THEIR CHALLENGES? Our mission focuses on helping clients find employment and become economically secure, but we’ve pivoted toward education so they can make the most of their unemployment. Online and digital literacy have become so important. Also helping them find food resources and manage their budgets.

ORGANIZATION

Women’s Mentoring Network LANA GIFAS, Executive Director

WHAT HAS BEEN THE RESPONSE FROM THE FAMILIES YOU HAVE SERVED DURING THIS TIME? They are so grateful. Many of our clients are from immigrant families

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2020 STAMFORD

and may not have family or friends to talk to about their needs. They really look to us as a mentor to help them get through, especially now. We are just one piece of the puzzle, and we help connect them to everything they need to move forward in their lives.

WHAT LESSONS CAN WE LEARN FROM THIS TIME? If you are focused and resilient, you will be able to move forward. We had to do that and our clients need to as well. We have had women find jobs. But many don’t have computers and are applying for jobs from their phones. We have raised some funding to get kids computers for virtual school. When a student gets a computer, the family gets it. People are so grateful for that. I still have a waiting list of over 100 who need computers. So many people coming out to donate and volunteer, communities coming together, the focus on diversity and inclusion with Black Lives Matter—these are very positive things in a time when it can be hard to stay positive. »

Impressive Stats Provided $37,000 in financial assistance to 175 families, enabling clients to eat and pay rent while awaiting stalled unemployment checks Provided over 250 individuals with support services to help find employment and manage finances Distributed over 100,000 pounds in food via a drive-through food pantry

2020 2020 Light A Fire

AWARD * COMMUNITY IMPACT *

ORGANIZATION

Neighbor to Neighbor MARGARET TJIMOS GOLDBERG, Executive Director YOU RECEIVED THE FIRST GRANT FROM GREENWICH UNITED WAY [GUW] IN THE PANDEMIC. HOW DID THAT COME ABOUT? When we all recognized the gravity of the situation, David Rabin [CEO, GUW] called me and asked, “Margaret, what do you need?” That was a perfect example of trust and communication in the community. I’ll never forget that. We then applied for another round of granting, which we received for continuing needs.

WHAT ARE SOME WAYS YOU HAVE USED THE FUNDING AND PARTNERED WITH OTHER ORGANIZATIONS? We had a summer program to provide for families with children, a supplement to what the school district was distributing. We worked with the Southwestern CT Agency on Aging, distributing groceries to 200 households each Friday. Words can’t describe the effort with our community partners. The impact has been remarkable. Thanks to Kyle Silver and the town of Greenwich, we were able to move to the Arch Street Teen Center after the Christ Church campus closed. That has been a godsend. We also have an internal focus, making sure staff and volunteers are taken care

of. It is very stressful. We are now looking at mid-2022 before we can even think about a hint of things stabilizing. How do we make sure there is nourishment all around, not just groceries but also health and well-being? It’s a delicate balance, but the work we are doing provides such a clarity of focus. It’s so energizing and inspiring.

HOW DID YOU FIND WAYS TO HELP PEOPLE FEEL CONNECTED IN SUCH AN ISOLATING TIME? By communication and consistent messaging that is easily understandable, conveyed across various platforms. We’ve gotten a lot of attention in the newspapers and on social media. The TAG drivers know the individuals in the households, which creates connection. We have young families with newborns, with a growing need for diapers and formula. We connected on Facebook and were able to get them what they need. I met face-to-face with a ninetyeight-year-old client today and made sure he got his food delivery. When calls come into my office, I immediately provide people with my cell phone number, ensuring they know we are here for them. If we can’t provide what they need, we reach out to other agencies.

Impressive Stats WHAT LESSONS CAN WE LEARN FROM THIS PANDEMIC? There is an awful lot that we just don’t know and a lot we don’t control. We have learned to walk together in confidence with our partners, staff and board, and find pathways to opportunities. We have to continue to move forward together. Don’t walk alone. Seek support with confidence and you’ll find a way. We’ve proven that many, many times already.

Committed food for 550 households weekly (and growing) Provide weekly snacks to 100 students Provide supplemental fruit to Meals on Wheels deliveries Completed the weekly Summer Supplement delivery to 225 households

WORDS OF PRAISE

During the COVID-19 Pandemic, NTN acted to prepare for an increase in families in need. They realized early that this was a crisis situation,” says NTN donor Brooke Urban. “NTN began to establish or strengthen partnerships with Greenwich Teen Center (larger space), TAG (distribution to clients), Greenwich United Way, the Junior League of Greenwich, Jewish Family Services, churches, schools and many more organizations. stamfordmag.com

WORDS OF PRAISE

Jeremy Nappi, Senior Director of Fund Development & Operations; Robert Moore, Director of Community Impact; David Rabin, CEO

Not only did the GUW raise and distribute the most impactful fund in town, the organization also served as a matchmaker—bringing together key stakeholder organizations and residents who wanted to help in different ways but didn’t know how to go about it, and connecting them with those who needed assistance that could not otherwise be found,” says Karen Hopp, longtime supporter and volunteer who now works on PR for the agency. the board about a COVID-19 relief fund. Even before that, we gave an emergency grant to Neighbor to Neighbor. One-third of Greenwich residents are already in need, and we knew the pandemic would exacerbate that. We acted quickly—that’s what we do. We know the community’s needs more than anyone. In December/January we will be coming out with a robust needs assessment, which we do every five years. We partnered with Fairfield University’s Center for Social Impact. We created an online interactive map; you can click on an area of Greenwich and see what the needs are.

HOW DID YOUR ORGANIZATION PIVOT DURING THIS TIME? We started the relief fund. We got the grant committee together weekly to handle grant applications and rapidly deploy funds. In the past, the CEOs of human services organizations in town met every four months. We shifted to weekly calls and made scores of connections to address critical needs, such as food delivery of breakfast and lunch daily. Of the 9,000 children in Greenwich Public Schools, 20 percent are on free/reduced lunch. We connected the superintendent with an organization that could deliver meals to these families. We made a connection for Greenwich Hospital for mask donations. We organized a book donation for Title 1 children. We acted as a fiduciary for Greenwich Comes Together, which was not a 501c3 yet.

2020 Light A Fire

AWARD * NONPROFIT IMPACT * ORGANIZATION

Greenwich United Way DAVID RABIN, CEO WHEN DID YOU HAVE A SENSE OF THE DEVASTATION AHEAD WITH THIS VIRUS? This crisis is exactly why we are here. The Greenwich United

WHAT IS YOUR PROUDEST ACCOMPLISHMENT DURING THIS PANDEMIC?

Way was founded eighty-seven years ago during another crisis, the Great Depression. On March 15, my staff and I had a phone conference and then approached

We never skipped a beat. We raised almost $900,000 in three months and granted it quickly without compromising our

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2020 STAMFORD

process. With COVID grants, we request monthly reports on how the money is spent, so we can report back to donors to show they had the greatest outcome.

HOW DID THE COMMUNITY COME TOGETHER TO SUPPORT YOUR EFFORTS? Greenwich responded like Greenwich always does. We put out the clarion call, and it was answered rapidly. »

By the Numbers Spearheaded the Greenwich COVID-19 Community Relief Fund, which raised $900,000 (as of August) Issued twenty-one grants to the most vulnerable in the community (as of August) Delivered 5,200 meals through Caritas, 6,784 meals through Filling in the Blanks and provided funding for 57,204 meals supplied through Neighbor to Neighbor Provided Zoom calls to 360 families through River House during the first month of the crisis Gave $400 each to 125 individuals to meet basic needs through Family Centers Provided 549 teen talk counseling sessions through Kids in Crisis Paid for 250 meals for frontline workers through Nathaniel Witherell

2020 Light A Fire

AWARD

* OUTSTANDING PHILANTHROPIC BUSINESS *

DAVE KUBAN, Owner ORGANIZATION

Planet Pizza, Norwalk HOW DID YOUR BUSINESS ADAPT DURING THIS PANDEMIC? We are in a high corporate area, so we lost those patrons and our rent is high. We adjusted our prices to a little above cost, so we could keep doing high volume. Everybody likes the doctors, nurses, police, so we started asking for donations and sending pizzas out to them. Melissa and Doug donated. Lemberg Law would donate $200 or $300 a day. We’d write a message from Lemberg Law on the pizza box, and the nurses would write and thank Sergei Lemberg directly. It took off. Crossfire Motorcycle Club bought 500 sandwiches, chips and waters—for $6 not our usual $11— and personally delivered them by motorcycle to Norwalk Hospital. I’m involved with the community on a normal basis, so this was easy for me. I grew up in Norwalk, with no money. Now I try to give back what I can.

HOW DID YOU HELP FAMILIES IN THE AREA? We raised $9,000 to provide food for kids and worked closely with guidance counselors to get healthy meals—grilled chicken,

broccoli, rice—to families. Rice is not on our menu, but we were buying six or seven fifty-pound bags a week. Someone asked for bologna; I don’t sell it but I wasn’t going to turn anyone down! I sent my driver for some. Matt Corey, who teaches lacrosse in Norwalk, donated $2,000 out of his own pocket, and we gave families Planet Pizza gift cards for wellrounded meals, including protein, veggies, milk and juice. With Malta House and social services, we delivered hand sanitizer, paper towels—anything to keep kids from getting sick.

WHAT WAS THE RESPONSE FROM THOSE YOU SERVED?

Impressive Stats

So many people called to thank us, crying—saying that was the only food they had for the week. I felt so bad, I started dropping off $50 gift cards. I told my wife at night, “I don’t feel right sitting down and eating dinner.”

and fed all the homeless under the bridge. Then we fed all the homeless by the bridge in South Norwalk, then at Stratford’s Home Depot, and then by the train station in Bridgeport. One lady there had six kids with her, living in a tent. I gave her the money in my pocket. They were charging the food truck; they were so appreciative.

MOST MOVING EXPERIENCE? M2 Tactical gun shop and Saugatuck Financial each donated $2,000. We made 450 bagged lunches, took my food truck, drove over to Exit 6 in Stamford

Raised $27,000 for hospital employees over three-anda-half months Raised $9,000 to donate meals to families once schools closed Served 450 meals to the homeless

WORDS OF PRAISE

Dave raised money to feed hospital employees over and over,” Cristy Gonzales, a teacher who works with lowincome kids, says of owner Dave Kuban. “He has his guys delivering meals to needy kids for free, then he tips his drivers himself. He has been sending food to everyone who is taking care of our community—store employees, postal workers, nurses, doctors—and keeping his employees working. When schools closed, I panicked thinking about how many kids would go unfed each day. I called Dave and he stepped up! He is now feeding so many that I’ve lost count. stamfordmag.com

2020 Light A Fire

AWARD * BEST FRIEND TO CHILDREN *

ORGANIZATION

Children’s Learning Centers

MARC JAFFE, Chief Executive Officer HOW WERE YOU ABLE TO COME TOGETHER AS AN ORGANIZATION AND TAKE ACTION WHEN THE PANDEMIC HIT? My team is really dedicated and mission driven. We knew the Greenwich/Stamford area was going to be overwhelmed by COVID. We have a long-standing relationship with Stamford Hospital; it’s the largest employer of our families. When the Project 26 program was announced, the OEC (Connecticut Office of Early Childhood) approached us and our response was: “Whatever it takes.” We were fortunate that we had a core team who demonstrated real courage and commitment and raised their hands.

WHAT ACCOMPLISHMENTS DURING THIS TIME MAKE YOU MOST PROUD?

closed, we almost immediately pivoted to remote learning, serving 940 children at home. These are younger kids who can’t read yet, don’t have technology, and whose parents are often non-English speakers. Philosophically we don’t believe in having children on screens, but we realized staying connected to the children, and engaging with the parents was really important. Our family engagement increased tenfold. We have committed to building a robust remote learning platform for pre-K, which doesn’t really exist.

Certainly Project 26. We ran a program for eight weeks and managed to do it without any children or staff getting sick. The healthcare workers deeply appreciated knowing their children were cared for and happy—you could see that in the faces of the children. We’re now serving 380 children in our seven sites. That also means 500 parents are going to work, so we are supporting the community and getting the economy back on its feet. We learned in running Project 26 how to mitigate risk, enabling us to reopen quickly. Also when we

WHAT ARE YOUR GOALS FOR 2021 AS WE FACE THE UNKNOWNS OF THIS VIRUS? Having our robust remote learning platform in place. Hopefully it becomes a model for the state, maybe the nation. Have as many children at our sites as we can safely accommodate. Continue to support not only our children and families, but our staff and team members, who are under a fair amount of stress. And to be cognizant of the challenges around race and equity as revealed by the George Floyd incident and respond to those challenges. Our staff is 85 percent female, 95 percent minority. »

WORDS OF PRAISE

Many CLC families were disproportionately impacted by the economic ravages of the virus,” explains Sue Bodson, who nominated CLC. “Food insecurity and unmet basic needs were very common problems, and CLC demonstrated how an organization leans in and shows up despite never-beforeseen challenges.” Sue, along with Bobbi Eggers, was planning CLC’s annual benefit when the pandemic hit. They quickly pivoted to a virtual Instagram party—over 600 participants attended, and the event raised $113,000.

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2020 STAMFORD

Impressive Stats Through Project 26, CLC offered childcare to Stamford Hospital healthcare workers for eight weeks in the heart of the pandemic. No child or staff member contracted COVID-19. Safely opened seven of CLC’s eight locations by the end of June, enabling 500 parents to get back to work Distributed 9,000 diapers through Greenwich’s Mothers for Others (ongoing effort) Distributed over 200 meals through Filling in the Blanks in Norwalk Organized a 1,000-volume book drive with Westhill Angels

2020 Light A Fire

AWARD * OUTSTANDING

LEADERSHIP *

ORGANIZATION

Food Rescue US DANIELLE BLAINE, Site Director

WHAT STEPS DID YOU TAKE TO ADAPT TO THE RAPIDLY GROWING NEEDS WHEN THIS PANDEMIC HIT? We usually use our app to communicate between food donors, volunteers and our social service agencies who receive the food. When the pandemic hit, so many agencies and grocery stores closed or changed hours that our app schedule could not reflect the rapid changes. I quickly emailed all of our volunteers and asked who would be able to help at a moment’s notice to move food to people who need it most. I received about 200 responses from volunteers, and we moved our system to fast-paced texting for March and April. The volunteers were incredible. We also launched three new initiatives: our community kitchen program, restaurant meal program and farm distribution program.

WHAT WAS YOUR ORGANIZATION’S EXPERIENCE WITH COMMUNITY SUPPORT OF YOUR EFFORTS? We experienced an unbelievable outpouring of goodwill from volunteers giving their time and companies and individuals providing grants to sponsor our meal programs to our local agencies, helping our local restaurants in the process—a real win-win for all.

ACCOMPLISHMENT YOU ARE MOST PROUD OF DURING THIS TIME? Building stronger communities through our volunteers and grocery, restaurant, school and hospital donors, and reaching deeper into the community to find individuals who are not being helped or need more help. When our volunteers reached out to help neighbors in need, it brought the whole community up. One of our agencies said, “The people felt respected and cared about when they saw these beautifully packaged meals coming from our local restaurants and community kitchens.”

Impressive Stats Provided over 840,000 meals (as of August) to the food insecure since the start of the pandemic

WHAT LESSONS DO YOU THINK WE CAN LEARN FROM THIS UNPRECEDENTED TIME? A pandemic can turn things upside down in a moment. Our agencies saw a doubling or tripling of people in line for food—many of them for the first time and many in tears. It could happen to anyone, and by building a stronger community of volunteers we can pivot to help anyone in Fairfield County in more ways than before. We experienced this with the weeklong power outage. We were so ready to jump in and take immediate action to help the stores and agencies get back on their feet quickly. Our

volunteers went to restaurants at a moment’s notice to get food that was going to spoil and take it to people who needed it. Through the pandemic, we have learned to come together as a team and community. The next time it could be us in line for the first time, and I think that has really made people think about equity and helping all people who are economically disadvantaged. S

WORDS OF PRAISE

Food Rescue was a key partner who helped us to develop a sustainable food system to feed hundreds of families during this COVID pandemic,” says Deborah Sims, Executive Director of East End NRZ Popup Market & Cafe. “They provided us with high quality fresh fruits, vegetables and meals, which was essential to our families that faced daily struggles in dealing with hunger. stamfordmag.com

Kept over 1 million pounds of food out of landfill Grew its team to 1,268 food rescuers (from 1,000 on March 1) Launched five Restaurant Meal Programs, helping more than twenty restaurants stay in business Launched three Community Kitchens— reopening restaurants, hiring back staff and making healthy chef-prepared meals for the food insecure Launched a Farm Distribution Program, recovering excess food from farms

BUILDING & HOME IMPROVEMENT California Closets...................................9

HEALTH &â&#x20AC;&#x2C6;BEAUTY CT ENT Sinus and Allergy.................... 21 Nathaniel Witherell.............................. 33

BUSINESS & FINANCE First Bank of Greenwich......................19 Castle Connolly.................................... 31 Cummings & Lockwood - Stamford.. 39 Davidson, Dawson, & Clark, LLP.........10 EVENTS A-list Awards........................................ 34 Greenwich Reindeer Festival............. 31 Light a Fire........................................ 40 FOOD, CATERING & LODGING Mackenzie's Bar & Grill..........................8 Marcia Selden Catering........................11 Winvian.................................................27 Table 104 Osteria Bar .......................... 17 Taco Mami..........................................2, 3

ONS Orthopaedic & Neurosurgery Specialists.................................. Cover 3 Hospital for Special Surgery............... 13 HOTELS The Lloyd Boutique Hotel......................7 JEWELRY Betteridge Jewelers/Rolex...........Cover 4 Lux Bond & Green.......................Cover 2, 1 Manfredi..................................................... 5 NONPROFIT AmeriCares.............................................39 Breast Cancer Alliance...........................39 Greenwich Historical Society.................33 New Covenant House.............................29

FASHION Roundabout.........................................29

SilverSource, Inc.......................................14 The Elephant Sanctuary........................63

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2020 STAMFORD

advertisers index REAL ESTATE Barbara Hickey, Sotheby's/ William Pitt.......................................10 MISCELLANEOUS Westy Self Storage.............................. 29

postscript

NOC/DEC 2020 / DONNA MOFFLY

“Don’t worry about it,” Jack told me in the bar where I had headed for another drink. “Every Senator needs someone like you.”

t’s November, the month of political triumph or defeat preceded by weeks of annoying e-mails and robot calls. And it always reminds me of the memorable politicians I’ve met over the years. Well, the first one I didn’t actually meet, and he was just a general in 1943. Ike was in Cleveland, waving to the crowds on Euclid Avenue from the back of my father’s yellow Cadillac convertible while my brothers and I threw confetti out the window of the Statler Hotel. Later, he’d become our 34th President. Other major players I’ve met up-close and personal—like President George H. W. Bush in 1989. Through Joseph Verner Reed, Chief of Protocol, I was invited for coffee at the White House after the state dinner for the President of Italy and got a big laugh when I offered: “You know, Mr. President, the last time I saw you, I was on stage and you were in the audience!” I reminded him that as Ambassador to the U.N., he’d attended a Grace Notes concert at the Old Greenwich Civic Center on U.N. Day. We sang “A Good Man Is Hard to Find,” and Libby Flinn went down into the audience and sat on his lap. Then there was the “very informal” invitation from our neighbors Polly and Hugo Koehler to come for a drink after tennis to meet Hugo’s brother. So there, still in our whites, we were introduced to a gent whose first name I heard as “Clayton.” Clayton Koehler, right? When I asked him what he did, he said “nothing” and turned away. Oops! In the kitchen, Polly explained: He was Hugo’s half-brother. Claiborne was his first name and Pell his last, because their mother had married twice. He was the Senator from Rhode Island currently on the cover of TIME magazine. “Oh, don’t worry about it,” Jack told me in the bar where I’d headed for another drink. “Every Senator needs someone like you.” stamfordmag.com

Apparently, I felt that Michael Fedele needed me, too, when he ran for Governor in the 2010 Republican primary. At an Eagle Scout dinner, I offered him some motherly advice. He’d used the word “clearly” about eighteen times in one radio broadcast. “You make listeners feel that if they don’t agree with you, they’re idiots.” Surprisingly, he almost abandoned the word thereafter. Fedele lost, but clearly I’d tried. During the 2004 Republican National Convention in New York, Jack and I attended a Republican Majority for Choice event at the top of the Met-Life building. It drew the likes of Bill Weld, former Governor of Massachusetts, who spoke eloquently about women’s rights. Standing by the front desk, my husband saw a new arrival make an obvious pass at the receptionist. It was Tommy Thompson, “W’s” anti-choice Secretary of Health, who’d crashed the party. Afterwards, Jack was telling me about it in the elevator, when the only other occupant, an attractive young lady of the press, interjected: “Oh, yah. He’s known for that. We call him ‘Tommy Touch-Tone.’ ” Then there was the first time I met Chris Murphy—at the Selbys’ house in Old Greenwich in 2012 when he was running for the U.S. Senate. I asked him if he was pro-choice; it wasn’t on his website. Absolutely, said he. So I suggested he get it up there fast. His wife was on the board of NARAL. Chris would become the youngest Senator in the 113th Congress and one of my favorite politicos, along with Chris Shays, who Jack and I took sailing on Purple Tiger during his final run for Congress. Blue skies. Blue water. Sunshine. No phones. Totally relaxed. It’s a rough business—politics. Not for the faint of heart. And money can’t buy experience, integrity or humanity. Election Day is our big chance to vote in the best people for the job. S

VENTURE PHOTOGRAPHY, GREENWICH, CT

OF POLITICOS & CROSSING PATHS

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