Westport Weston & Wilton July/August 2022 by Moffly Media

available at

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contents JULY/AUG 2022 vol. 24 | issue 4

features

M O F F LY M E D I A

departments 13 STATUS REPORT

BUZZ Big season at the Levitt Pavilion; Hanesie Clothes with a mission; YOYA Westport for children’s style; Forever Sweet Bakery; artist Spencer Gabor

GOLD COAST C O N N E C T I C U T • 2022

Here are the results to our readers’ poll—the top picks for restaurant, seafood, margaritas, ice cream, jeans, hair coloring, facials, pet toys, children’s clothing and much more! 175 categories—time to explore.

pg.

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SHOP Beach to street; Summer Hours fragrance

DO Spa time; ORGÁNACHS; Try This

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HOME Leia T. Ward’s calm design; changes with The Finish

These winners are the best within the towns we cover: Westport, Weston and Wilton!

pg.

10 EDITOR’S LETTER

by dia ne ta lb ot sembrot

GO The Peninsula Beverly Hills; 8 summer must reads

53 PEOPLE + PLACES

PRESCHOOLS AND PLAY TIME

55 VOWS

Local preschools and activities just for little ones

107 INDEX OF ADVERTISERS

b y ji l l joh n s on m a n n

108 POSTSCRIPT

by d onna mof f ly

TOP DENTISTS

EDUCATION GUIDE

Smile! Here’s your guide to top local pros. pg.

top: Cocktails at La Plage, one of this year’s Best Of winners

Special pull-out publication! Experts weigh in on the building blocks of education. —after pg. 32

on the c over l a pl age restaur ant at the inn at longshore | photo gr aphy by andrea carson WESTPORT JULY/AUGUST 2022, VOL. 24, NO. 4. WESTPORT (USPS/ISSN 1941-9821) is published bi-monthly by Moffly Media, Inc., 205 Main St., Westport, CT 06880. Periodical postage paid at Westport, CT, and additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes (Form 3579) to WESTPORT, PO BOX 9309, Big Sandy, TX 75755-9607. U.S. Subscription rates: $19.95/1 year, $34.95/2 years; Canada and Foreign $40/1 year, $69/2 years.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY ANDREA CARSON

pg.

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WHERE YOU WANT US. WHEN YOU NEED US. Right Around the Corner

Expert, compassionate care is within reach at Stamford Health care center locations in Greenwich, New Canaan and Wilton. We offer unparalleled expertise from primary care, surgery and medical specialty physicians to imaging and lab services. The exceptional care you deserve is only a call or click away. To make a virtual or in-person appointment, visit StamfordHealth.org/carecenters or call 800.347.0357.

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digital content & MORE

july/aug 2022

CELEBRATING THE SCENE STEALERS

WE ALL WIN! Find a complete directory of this year’s winners online. Head to bestofgoldcoastct.com to review the top vote-getters, on the go.

SHARE THE NEWS! Did your business win a Best Of 2022? Get the word out! Head to our Winners Circle for resources to help you share the good news and attract new fans. Go to: bestofgoldcoastct.com/winnerscircle.

JUMP ONLINE

ENJOY OUR ARTICLES AND POSTS ON INSIGHTFUL LOCALS WHO HELP US ALL LIVE BETTER

Visit our directories for resources

PHOTOGRAPHY: WEDDING BY BROOKE ALLISON; STAMFORD HOSPITAL AT JMCLAUGHLIN BY JULIA D’AGOSTINO; PRUDENCE BAILEY INTERIOR DESIGN BY ANDREA CARSON; SMARTPHONE ©IEVGEN SKRYPKO - STOCK.ADOBE.COM

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PLUS!

LIGHT A FIRE

Thank those who volunteer and give back to the community every day by nominating them for this award! Do it online TODAY! ilovefc.com/lightafire

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BY JULIA D’AGOSTINO; PRUDENCE BAILEY INTERIOR DESIGN BY ANDREA CARSON; SMARTPHONE ©IEVGEN SKRYPKO - STOCK.ADOBE.COM

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Exceptional Products, Personal Service. 6/15/22 11:44 AM

WHAT’S IN YOUR YARD?

vol. 24 | no. 4 | july/august 2022

editorial

editorial director

Cristin Marandino–cristin.marandino@moffly.com editor: westport, fairfield living, stamford

Diane Sembrot–diane.sembrot@moffly.com style & community editor

Janel Alexander books correspondent

Emily Liebert contributing editors

Megan Gagnon–editor, athome Elizabeth Hole–editor, custom publishing Julee Kaplan–editor, new canaan • darien Veronica Schoor—assistant editor, athome Amy Vischio–creative director-at-large, athome copy editors

Terry Christofferson, Lynne Piersall, David Podgurski, Scott Thomas contributing writers

Liz Barron, Tom Connor, Carol Leonetti Dannhauser, Kim-Marie Evans, Mary Kate Hogan, Jill Johnson Mann, Georgette Yacoub editorial advisory board

G. Kenneth Bernhard, Bridgett Csapo-DiBonaventura, Nancy Conroy, Nancy Gault, Caren Hart Nelson, Jennifer O’Reilly

art

senior art director

Venera Alexandrova–venera.alexandrova@moffly.com senior art director

Garvin Burke–garvin.burke@moffly.com production director

Tim Carr–tim.carr@moffly.com assistant art director

Lisa Marie Servidio–lisa.servidio@moffly.com senior photographer

Bob Capazzo

digital media director of content strategy

Diane Sembrot digital marketing manager

Rachel MacDonald–rachel.macdonald@moffly.com digital assistant Lloyd Gabi–lloyd.gabi@moffly.com Calendar@Moffly.com Editor@WestportMag.com Weddings@WestportMag.com

DREW KLOTZ

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please call 203-571-1645 or email reprints@moffly.com. All rights reserved. No part of this periodical may be reproduced without express permission of the publisher. ©2022 WESTPORT magazine is a registered trademark owned by Moffly Media. The opinions expressed by writers commissioned for articles published by WESTPORT are not necessarily those of the magazine. FOR QUALITY CUSTOM REPRINTS/E-PRINTS,

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vol. 24 | no. 4 | july/august 2022 publisher

Gabriella Mays

westport•weston•wilton gabriella.mays@moffly.com

sales & marketing

Andrew Amill publisher, greenwich andrew.amill@moffly.com

Since 1909, Cummings & Lockwood has provided sophisticated legal representation to individuals, families, family offices, closely held businesses, other commercial enterprises and charitable entities. Our core services include: Wills, Trusts and Estate Planning

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editor’s letter

JULY/AUG 2022 / DIANE TALBOT SEMBROT

YOU DID IT! W

HOW TO SCAN: OPEN, AIM & TAP

But before you get worried about who didn’t win, think about who did. I’m sure you’ll find many of your favorite places here. Also, remember that this story does a lot of good for local, small businesses. It helps spread the word about what they do, why they do it and how very good they are at it. That martini you love on Friday night? It’s poured by someone who put in the time to perfect it. That collection of shoes that makes you agonize over which pair to buy? That’s brought to you by a store owner who spent untold hours finding options that would appeal to locals. It goes on and on in more than 170 categories that make up our local lifestyle. A reminder: Westport magazine is also a small, locally owned, family business. We are right there among all these businesses—doing what we love to do and hoping to make your life better because of it. In our case, we want to keep you informed, entertained and impressed. We focus our style picks, food reviews, personality profiles and store openings on locals. Why? Because we love living and working here, and nothing makes us happier than to create a community among us. I’ll be turning my attention to the fall issues now. I can see that you’ve got this one well in hand. Thanks for your help and for being such a good partner in this community magazine.

diane.sembrot@moffly.com

WILLIAM TAUFIC

SCAN TO VISIT US

ell, hello! I’d like to thank all of your for doing my job so well. After all, this issue features our annual project “Best of the Gold Coast Connecticut,” and what a big assignment it is. But you did a great job with it! This is the biggest story of the year that relies on you, our readers, for what to feature. It doesn’t come from me. I write up exactly who you tell me to write up. I asked for your favorite places—restaurants, cafés, shops, gyms, salons and more—and you listed them one by one. All I had to do was review the results and print them here. So, turn the page, you’ll find out all. But a word before you go! Our whole team enjoys the part we play in this feature story. We get to see the votes roll in over a few mid-winter months. We get to applaud the frontrunners and root for the underdogs, even before anyone else knows who’s really in the race. And the best part is that who wins is out of our hands. All we can do is take the role of spectator and hand over the filtering power to you, our local experts. As I say every year, because we present the results to this readers’ poll, do not blame me if you disagree with a result here and there. It should be expected. It happens. Even I disagree sometimes. But hold that email you’re about to send me, because, as a reminder, I did not pick them. My role was to ask for votes. And we got a lot of them! We logged in more than 106,000 votes for people’s favorites, from ice cream to cosmetic spa services. If you think so-and-so was a “must win,” then I ask: Did you vote? Yes, every single vote counts. westportmag.com

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buzz STATUS REPORT

PHOTOGRAPHY: ARGONAUT & WASP, CONTRIBUTED; ALLISON RUSSELL BY MARC BAPTISTE; M. C. TAYLOR BY CHRIS FRISINA

left: Argonaut & Wasp takes the stage July 23 below: The amazing Levitt Pavilion, which will host fifty free events, is set alongside the Saugatuck River.

Music Beside the River and Under the Stars A NEW SEASON AT WESTPORT’S LEVITT PAVILION by tom connor

right: M. C. Taylor, frontman for Hiss Golden Messenger performs Aug. 12.

his July and August, downtown Westport will come alive again with the sounds of music as the Levitt Pavilion for the Performing Arts presents its forty-ninth summer concert season. One of the largest and longest-running premier outdoor festivals in the country, the Levitt will host more than fifty concerts this summer, the majority of them free. The town has long been home to wellknown artists and musicians—from folk heroes Eric von Schmidt and Fred Hellerman of the Weavers to jazz great Gerry Mulligan,

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left: See Allison Russell, whose 2021 debut album earned three Grammy nominations, on Aug. 21.

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right: See Aoife O’Donovan, a Grammy award-winning songwriter and musician, on Aug. 21 below: The band Incendio takes the stage July 31

In addition to what’s happening on stage, there’s a magic to the landscape on the banks of the Saugatuck, under the stars...there’s a deep love and appreciation for the arts in Westport. CARLEIGH WELSH, Levitt Pavilion’s director of development and marketing

PHOTOGRAPHY: AOIFE O’DONOVAN © OMAR CRUZ; INCENDIO, COURTESY OF THE BAND

singer Michael Bolton and Chic cofounder and Emmy Award–winning songwriter Nile Rogers. So, it’s only natural that the Levitt would draw top and emerging talent. Among the free performances beginning in July will be the Brooklyn new-disco group Argonaut & Wasp, making its debut at the Levitt, and Incendio, a virtusoic guitardriven ensemble that plays a wide range of Latin music. “Incendio is as fiery as the name sounds,” says Carleigh Welsh, the Levitt Pavilion’s director of development and marketing. “You really think that the guitar strings might burst into flames!” But the highlight of the summer is the Levitt Pavilion’s “Stars on Tour” series of paid ticketed events. Over the years, the series has featured performers the likes of Ray Charles, Tony Bennett, Judy Collins, Melissa Etheridge, The Beach Boys and The Doobie Brothers, among many others. On Sunday, August 21, the series will present the Canadian singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Allison Russell, whose 2021 solo roots-inflected album, Outside Child, was nominated for three Grammy awards. “We had the great privilege of presenting her in 2018,” says Freda Welsh, executive director. “She’s an exciting artist, someone who Westporters normally would have to travel to see.” The series will also host a double bill on Friday, August 12, featuring the Irish singer Aoife O’Donovan, a Grammy Award–winning songwriter and cofounder of the folk trio I’m With Her, and Hiss Golden Messenger, a folk band from North Carolina. Situated behind the Westport Public Library, the Levitt Pavilion is a key component of plans for redesigning the downtown (see “A River Runs Through It” in our March/April 2022 issue). Just as important, the Levitt doubles as a unique communal gathering spot. “I think that people will just appreciate, more than ever, the chance to come together,” Carleigh notes. “In addition to what’s happening on stage, there’s a magic to the landscape on the banks of the Saugatuck, under the stars. For a lot of the artists, it is a creative home—it’s not lost on them that there’s a deep love and appreciation for the arts in Westport.”

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right: The brand Hanesie, founded by Ellie Haney, includes sweats, t-shirts and hoodies

Keep It Simple The comfort of the new brand HANESIE

ife was unmemorable for some before the start of the pandemic. For Elizabeth “Ellie” Haney, on the other hand, March 2020 was one of the toughest times in her life. She was in her last semester at school at the University of Delaware; her boyfriend had broken up with her; and the Covid pandemic began, so she was thrust into quarantine— something that is particularly hard for her since a huge part of her anxiety gets triggered from being alone. “I’ve always struggled mentally,” she says, “but my last semester of college was unbearable.” One day at school, she randomly came across a YouTube video of two girls tie-dying clothes. “Something about it was so pretty and simple,” Ellie says. She tried it and immediately fell in love. The process—waking up the next day to see how the dye had set—“gave me something to look forward to in the morning. It helped take away my debilitating anxiety.” That is how Hanesie Clothes (hanesie.com) was born. Eventually, Ellie was selling clothing to her friends and building a small following on Instagram, but she put it aside when she accepted her first “real” job after graduating in May. “The entire time I was there, I felt like I belonged somewhere else,” she says, “that I was meant for something else.” She pushed through, until a conversation she had with her boss. The two were casually talking when Ellie mentioned Hanesie Clothes and how much she loved it. To Ellie’s surprise,

her boss encouraged her to follow her passion and become an entrepreneur. So, she did. Hanesie Clothes is a comfort clothing line— hoodies, crewnecks, sweatpants, heavyweight T-shirts—with a mission: to be a brand that physically and emotionally supports those who struggle with mental health. The brand also partners with nonprofits, like Words of Hope for Life, whose mission is to implement new ways to integrate mental wellness into communities. Each collection serves a purpose, whether that’s encouraging self-love or being unapologetic for who you are. “My whole life, I felt like I glided through and never did anything extraordinary. I was just there,” she says. “I had never felt proud of myself. Having that feeling now really inspires me. I’m proud of how many dark places I’ve gotten out of, and I’m using this platform to inspire others to do the same.”

The line started with a love for the tie-dye look.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY PETER STACK

by georget te yac oub

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M O F F LY M E D I A M

GOLD COAST C O N N E C T I C U T • 2022

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HOME DECOR

G I F TS

D E S I G N S E RVI C E S

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above: Shopping for kids clothes is a lot of fun, with the fresh new looks at YOYA Westport boutique, founded by Cristina Villegas

OYA is a designer kids’ and concept retail store—with an arm in interior design (Casa YOYA)—that is high-end without being pretentious. The space feels like an extension of home. It’s clean, airy and playful, with a deliberate juxtaposition of color and texture, vintage and new. Racks of unique children’s clothing line the perimeter. On the far end of the space, near where owner Cristina Villegas consults with her home-interior clients, are shelves stacked with one-pieces, jackets, dresses and sets, sitting neatly against a wall lined with whimsical wallpaper. Villegas walks over in a billowy, animal print bohemian dress and thick-framed glasses. Her outfit is paired with a red set of sneakers that, well, just make sense. She came here from Colombia. “I had $500 in my pocket. My plan was, well, I didn’t have a plan,” she says, laughing. “I went to FIT during the day and worked at night at restaurants and bars. It was the greatest New York City experience you could ever have.” She was working for an Italian mill in a travel-heavy role when she got pregnant with her first child. She took a break but, after a year, had a calling to get back into it. That is when YOYA was born. YOYA is what Villegas used to call her Aunt Gloria as a child, and it’s a name that stuck. So, she named the store in her aunt’s honor.

by georget te yac oub

above: The shop is known for its collection of adorable children’s clothing. below: YOYA also has clothing for adults and accessories with a well-traveled feel.

The first rendition of YOYA was a cozy shop in New York’s West Village that built a cult-like following. At the start of the pandemic, what was once a healthy business started to suffer, and Villegas was forced to close YOYA’s doors. She and her family moved to Weston, and while she thought she was out of retail forever, she started to miss it. So the second rendition —YOYA Westport—was born. Villegas travels to different shows in Paris, Italy and New York where she picks her favorite pieces from the collections of highend kids’ designers. She edits and curates the pieces, displaying them by color, changing the collection in her store seasonally. Each piece is so unique and deliberately chosen that moms often joke, “Do you have this in my size?” And while children’s clothing takes the mainstage, Villegas carries artisanal lamps, rugs, candles, incense and bags for moms. She works directly with artisans in Colombia and Mexico, so a part of her retail is dedicated to curated finds from her travels as well. “I like the store to be fun,” she says. “It’s fashion, but they are still kids.” Drop by to see more. The shop is located at 8A Sconset Square (second floor), Westport; yoyanyc.com.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY KARLI WILLIAMS

FUN!

CHILDREN’S CLOTHES WITH JOYFUL PERSONALITY, AND EVEN A TOUCH O F S W E E T V I N T A G E , A T YOYA

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Cozy Gourmet Peeling back the incredible dining at Allium Eatery by el i z abeth k eyse r

above, left: The ultimate unicorn cake with rainbow ruffles center: Next-level Strawberry Shortcake and, of course, Cookie Monster right: An elegant ivory-and-gold cake

SO SWEET! U

pon entering FOREVER SWEET BAKERY, the impossible is deemed probable. With towering cakes of various colors and cupcakes of unimaginable quantities and varieties, owners Frances and Sky Mercede make customers’ sweet dreams come true. This Norwalk bakery is rooted in family ties with Frances following in her parents’ path of being a baker and her husband, Sky, helping with customer service, coordinating orders and marketing. It is Frances’ recipes that have been the foundation for their many cakes for decades and have won the shop “Best Cupcakes” in Moffly Media’s (this magazine’s) Best Of readers’ poll eight years in a row. Sky describes himself as the “supporting husband,” which undercuts the amount of work he actually does, including running their

extensive number of social media platforms, directing their outreach programs and encouraging community involvement. The bakery’s community involvement is a big part of what they do, year-round. For example, during the cold winter, the bakery held a clothing drive of hats, gloves and scarves for a local homeless shelter. They frequently raise money for homeless shelters nearby in addition to surprising newly opened businesses with cupcakes on their launch day. Sky describes their bakery as “community oriented,” with much more to come in terms of giving back to the area. Customer service is also a priority. Sky says the goal of Forever Sweet Bakery is to “treat customers like kings and queens.” The bakery is able to customize their cakes, and frequently

do so, according to customers’ requests with references to pictures online or even just ideas in their head. When asked what limit this customization has, Sky proclaims confidently that the bakery can create anything. With cakes of cars, ships and castles of multiple tiers, it appears the limit of this customization is sky high. Frances and Sky present the idea of a family-owned business on a larger scale with community-focused values and customer service at the core of their success—call them their secret ingredients. “We’re just here to put smiles on people’s faces,” Sky says, “and celebrate with them.”

PHOTOGRAPHY BY SKY MERCEDE II

SPREADING LOVE THROUGH BAKED GOODS by eleanor vail

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Thank You

WE REALLY APPRECIATE ALL YOUR VOTES & SUPPORT!

2022

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Think Big SPENCER GABOR on trusting his inner artist, finally by diane sembrot

o big, because dreamers are also doers. Just ask Spencer Gabor. The 2015 Staples graduate is a self-taught designer and illustrator who has found a bold style that appeals to well-established business clients, such as NPR, Harvard Business and lululemon. His work resonates naturally, even with those who have seen it all. Although art called to him for years, he ignored it. “I definitely suppressed it. I thought being an artist wouldn’t be a viable career path, which resulted in me actually majoring in finance at college. Eventually, around my junior year, I realized I couldn’t help it and frantically figured out a path into a more

creative career.” After graduating, he worked on the creative teams at ad agencies—that is, until the pandemic hit. Then he turned to full-time freelance work and says he never looked back. “There was a lot of soul-searching in that process, but I’m so glad I did it.” Committing to a career one finds risky is no small decision. Soul-searching was the process he needed to go through in order to more comfortably come into his own as an artist and all that comes with it. For example, Gabor welcomes constructive criticism and the back and forth between a client and himself. “I love it! No joke. I get really skeptical when things go too smoothly. I feel like the client might just

CONTRIBUTED

above: Mural of the two people high-fiving is for Oak Street Health in Queens. below: Man holding keyboard is Jammin.

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be inexperienced in working with artists and just wants to get the project moving,” he says. “Of course, there’s a balance between overprescriptive direction and quality feedback, but a good art director plays a crucial role in making an artist’s work better with the right feedback.” Another part of being an artist is not just a client seeing it, but also the public. Putting your imagination out there, especially on a big wall, could be a vulnerable moment. Or is it? “The goal is always to get you to stop and stare,” he says of his mural style. “I look to use bright colors and clear imagery to make a statement. For me, personally, seeing my work on a large scale is everything. The trust a company puts in you to draw on their walls feels amazing and something I’ve dreamt of doing for years.” Gabor, who uses an Apple Pencil on an iPad to retain the hand-made feel in his work, describes the style as “bold and silly—a lot of long-limbed characters in expressive poses with round simple heads. Portraying emotion without facial features is a fun challenge, and I am drawn to bright colors and rough textures.” He believes his style appeals to big clients because of the “approachability and ambiguity” in it. “My characters are often genderless/raceless,” he says. “Because companies like these put a large emphasis on diversity, this sort of fits within their needs in a more neutral way. Additionally, I think there’s an upbeat nature in my work, which can lighten an advertisement campaign or more serious topic.” That levity belies personal depth, too. “I have super-bad anxiety,” he shared in an interview on dribble.com, “and making it known and apparent has always lightened the burden of trying to hide it. One of my favorite illustrators describes this concept as ‘sad for fun,’ where serious topics are depicted in a bright and bold manner so people can feel less alone and know their struggles are OK to talk about. Since we spend so much time on social media, I think digital art pieces like these that are posted on platforms like Instagram can be super beneficial.” As a final thought, he says, “You don’t need to be technically sound or that gifted. Just create something unique to you and others will find it interesting. Also, give your dream career a shot. Everyone owes that to themselves.”

left: Two panels was for Blue Back Square in West Hartford below: Two people running for lululemon in NYC

above: A saxophone player in Feelin’ Jazzed below: Pattern of random objects in Things from My Walk.

JULY/AUGUST 2022 WESTPORT

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shop 2

Styled with Swimwear

style note: This statement skirt needs no introduction. Ground it with a great low-key mesh polo layered over a sunshine shade of swimwear.

IT’S NOT WHAT YOU WEAR, BU T H O W Y O U W E A R I T Clothing can be a great tool. It can influence how you are perceived, how you go about your day, and how you set yourself apart from the masses. Whether it’s a colorful statement skirt or casual cocktail attire, use your swimwear as integral pieces of your summer look that transition from one activity to another. Bonus: These pieces fit in a suitcase easily and move well from beach days to sunset nights!

4 5

by janel alex ander

TABLE AND POOL IMAGES: ADOBESTOCK; MR. SMITH BY ELENA WOLFE PHOTOGRAPHY; ALL OTHERS, COURTESY OF BRANDS/STORES

Beach Party B BQ

6 1 TORY BURCH Printed string bikini top, $98, and bottom in yellow garden rose, $98. Tory Burch, Greenwich; toryburch.com 2 WANDER BEAUTY Double Date lip and cheek, $24, bluemercury, Greenwich, Darien, New Canaan, Westport; bluemercury.com 3 PUNTICANA Every occasion handmade sustainable silk skirt, $560, Maison Marche; maisonmarche.com 4 MINNIE ROSE Cotton mesh short sleeve polo, $117, WEST, Westport; west2westport.com 5 JCREW Lucie double-strap block heel sandal, $168, JCrew, Greenwich, New Canaan, Westport; jcrew.com 6 TORY BURCH Reva square sunglasses, $171, Tory Burch, Greenwich; toryburch.com westportmag.com

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Pool Side Chic

6 5

style note: Using separates to layer up or down through your day is a great way to keep cool, comfortable and chic!

8 1 CASTAÑER Carina ankle-tie espadrille wedge sandal, $140, Bloomingdale’s, Westchester; bloomingdales.com 2 SWIM TOP Recycled crepe scallop bikini top, $98, Unsubscribed, Greenwich, Westport; unsubscribed,com 3 SWIM BOTTOMS Recycled crepe high-waisted bikini bottom, $88, Unsubscribed, Greenwich, Westport; unsubscribed,com 4 MR SMITH Sea Salt Spray, $37, and Paste, $37 5 TOP Beach PJ robe, $225, Unsubscribed, Greenwich, Westport; unsubscribed,com 6 PANTS Beach PJ pant, $178, Unsubscribed, Greenwich, Westport; unsubscribed,com 7 STEPHEN PINK Porcelain bead earring, $38, Chou Chou, Rowayton; shopchouchou.com 8 BOTTEGA VENETA String jacquard towel tote bag, $1,900, Richards, Greenwich and Mitchells, Westport; shop. mitchellstores.com JULY/AUGUST 2022 WESTPORT

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shop

SUMMER LOVE

A NEW LINE OF FRAGRANCES BOTTLES THE BEST OF THIS BEAUTIFUL SEASON by diane sembrot

Even better, her fragrance portfolio is made with clean ingredients. When coming up with her first four scents, Maloney collaborated with Sarah Horowitz-Thran, an artisan perfumer. “These fragrances are made from the highest-quality natural and safely synthesized ingredients available,” notes Horowitz-Thran. She means that the brand’s fragrances are free from ingredients banned in Europe—and they are cruelty-free and vegan. Check for yourself; Summer Hours lists what’s in the bottle for

you to read. Even the attractive packaging uses recycled or recyclable materials. Below are the brand’s four eau de parfums, named with warm days in mind. Not sure which to pick? Consider trying the Sample Set with trial-sized spray vials of all four fragrances (8 mL for $40). Shop for your favorite at summer-hours.com as well as at indie retailers (Kule, Frances Valentine) and luxury hotels (Four Seasons Resorts, Life House Hotels).

No. 1

No. 2

No. 3

No. 4

LE WEEK END

ROMANESQUE

NEW WAVE

80º

We’ve held meetings, returned phone calls, agreed to deals—and now it’s the weekend. This blend features cut grass, honeysuckle, peony, linden blossom and verdant woods. Summer Hours calls it: “The pursuit of happiness.”

We’re feeling noble, fancy and timeless—call us perfect. This pinnacle of wellbeing is captured with fresh fig, bergamot, lemon, rose and Mediterranean pine. Summer Hours calls it: “The timeless allure.”

Life is better at the beach, just watching the waves crash along the shore. This waterlover’s summer scent is a fresh combination of lemon, sea salt, neroli, jasmine and white musk. Summer Hours calls it: “The captivating sea.”

The ideal summer temperature is, of course, eighty degrees. It’s described in a mixture of orange, coconut, orange blossom, neroli and jasmine. Summer Hours calls it: “The perfect day at the beach.”

SUNSET, DE VISU - STOCK.ADOBE.COM; PERFUME, CONTRIBUTED

or some of us, summer comes and goes too fast. We love this season’s relaxed vibe, slowing down with the comings and goings of the tide and the puffy white clouds floating by. We always wish there were a way to linger longer in summer. Turns out, we aren’t alone. Beth Maloney founded a Fairfield business inspired by what she calls “the endless possibility of the season”—and with SUMMER HOURS captures summer’s moments in scents.

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RESTORE HYPER WELLNESS 1055 High Ridge Rd., Stamford 877 Post Road East, Westport restore.com Less inflammation, better sleep, more energy and aging slower—sign us up. Restore Hyper Wellness is all about “proactive healing to help people do more of what they love,” says Uwa Osagie, general manager of the Stamford Restore. With an additional location in Westport, Restore Hyper Wellness creates individualized treatment plans for clients to assist in achieving health and wellness goals. Their list of services ranges from cryotherapy to IV drips and biomarker assessments to oxygen facials. IV drips, they claim, allow for high doses of nutrients to be delivered directly to the bloodstream. Restore offers drips with taurine, an organic amino acid that aids in muscle recovery and increases energy and focus. For those looking for immune support drips with B vitamins, vitamin C or glutathione, the “master antioxidant” are ideal choices.

Freshen Up AHH, SUMMER…IT’S TIME TO SLOW DOWN, SPEND TIME IN THE SUNSHINE AND CATCH UP ON SOME MUCH-DESERVED SELF-CARE. HERE, SOME GREAT LOCAL SPOTS TO UNWIND, RECONNECT AND FEEL BETTER THAN EVER b y l i z

883 Boston Post Road, Darien checkbodymind.com Founder Amber Kemp is a certified clinical hypnotherapist, mindfulness coach, yoga instructor, Reiki practitioner, licensed massage therapist, life coach, and advocate of Biohacking for longevity. The goal of CHECK Body-Mind is to help clients feel their best by tapping into the mind, body, soul connection by placing equal importance on each

4 ELEMENT MEDICAL AESTHETICS

80 Main St., New Canaan elementct.com

ith the quest for inner harmony constantly growing, the options for finding such solace in Fairfield County are seemingly always expanding. With options ranging from light and cryo therapies, to yoga, massages and tachyon chambers, there is sure to be something for everyone in southern Connecticut looking to improve overall well-being.

1CHECK BODY-MIND

ba rron

KAIA YOGA kaiayoga.com

Kaia Yoga has your workouts covered with locations in Darien, Greenwich, Old Greenwich, New Canaan and Westport. Sign up for power flow and hot yoga classes to barre, meditation and stretching-based offerings. The belief that all aspects of the mind and body must be integrated in order to achieve balance is why the Greenwich and Darien studios also offer massage therapy. Kaia understands that healing touch “is essential to help relieve the daily stresses of your high-paced life.” All locations also offer live stream and interactive classes via Zoom and on demand for those who would prefer to find their Zen at home. Additionally, Kaia provides educational programming such as teacher trainings and workshops in a variety of modalities.

element. CHECK Body-Mind offers monthly membership plans as well as one-off specialized treatments such as cryotherapy, LED light therapy, compression therapy, massage and assisted stretch sessions. Its Tachyon Meditation Chamber allows for clients to be induced into a meditative state and experience deep relaxation and peace. “Tachyon is a subatomic energy particle that is said to move faster than the speed of light” and its health benefits range from relaxation to long-term boost of the immune system and detoxification.

There is nothing quite like the feeling of refreshment and renewal that comes with taking time for yourself. Skin care is part of self care and Element Medical Aesthetics helps clients to bring out their inner glow with both a relaxing and educational experience. Owner and skincare expert Merry Thornton prides herself on providing long consults so clients have time to understand her recommendations. Her approaches can involve improving skin texture and tone with peels and lasers, restoring lost volume with fillers, addressing lines and wrinkles with wrinkle reducers such as Botox, among other treatments. “My favorite part of my job is that I can instill confidence in my patients so that they feel as beautiful,” she explains. “I have been seeing a lot of patients postpartum lately. Between pregnancy and caring for a new baby, they haven't been able to devote time to themselves. When they leave my office, they have a little more pep in their step.”

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MSC P

Summer Sundays at Greenwich Polo Club

Connecticut 203.353.8000

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marciaselden.com

New York 212.921.4100

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A CLEAN START A SKINCARE AND BEAUTY BOUTIQUE PIVOTS, ADDING SERVICES b y d i a n e s e m b r o t

aking care of yourself—doing the right thing for you— should not be difficult. In fact, it should be both simple and comforting. Take, for example, skin care and beauty. Siobhan McKinley, who founded ORGÁNACHS FARM TO SKIN (organachsfarmtoskin.com) as a clean-beauty boutique, recently updated her Westport shop to also offer skin- and body-wellness services. The boutique is now both retail and experience, with two new private rooms for services, such as facials, eyebrow shaping, body treatments and body waxing; plus, most recently, an infrared sauna, new skincare products and a wellness club.

What sets it apart—that is, what is its mission? My mission was and is to bring clean, safe, high-performing organic skincare to the Westport community and Connecticut as a whole. I was empowered to

Siobhan McKinley, owner of ORGÁNACHS

inform women of the healthier alternatives in effective organic skin care and crush the myth that chemicals and harshness were necessary to a good skincare regimen. A curated assortment of the best brands in clean beauty and offering the highest quality organic treatments sets ORGÁNACHS apart from other beauty businesses.

above: The boutique, along with clean skincare and beauty products, now also offers skin and wellness services.

What is new now—you have more space? I recently renovated my boutique so I can now offer a private space for our expansion into skin and body wellness. We will be launching our Skin and Body Wellness Club where customers receive monthly discounts on their services and access to our growing list of VIP wellness partners who will be extending discounts to our club members.

and custom set options. Adding infrared services is the perfect marriage to our skin and body wellness mission. Infrared warms the body from within, instead of just heating the air around us. This provides a unique opportunity for health benefits beyond a traditional sauna. Also, not all infrared saunas are equal, and this is why educating my customers on the sauna that I have chosen is important. As an avid user myself, I am thrilled to offer this experience to my customers.

What are the new services? Our new facial treatments include a 100-minute Instant Lift Organic Restorative facial and our organic body treatments, launched in May, will include Organic Warm Spiced Mud Wrap, Organic Seaweed Leaf Body Wrap, Organic Seaweed Body Buff, Organic Lavender and Seaweed Sugar Glow. Waxing and eyebrow services are now available. Our new stateof-the-art infrared sauna, the three-in-one mPulse Believe with preset health programs

What prompted the changes? I wanted to extend beyond offering clean skincare products to a more extensive skincare experience for the face and body. It is always a benefit if a client can experience organic skin care first hand and see the difference in their skin. Adding the infrared sauna is part of the full-body wellness experience that I am striving for. The near infrared LEDs have been shown

to increase collagen and elastin, improving overall skin appearance. In addition, infrared offers health benefits such as improved sleep quality, detoxification, immunitysystem boost, increased metabolism and fat burn, stress reduction and faster muscle repair. Any advice for skincare during July and August? My must-haves—sunscreen and a hat! I love the suncare brand Suntegrity for its natural ingredients and for its tinted sunscreens, as well as Josh Rosebrook's Nutrient Day Cream tinted. Take care of your skin on your entire body, not just your face. Exfoliate to remove sunscreens and moisturize and protect. Anything else you want to add? I'm always striving to find the best in organic and natural skin care and beauty, and I will be adding new products this summer from African Botanics and Manasi 7.

PHOTOGRAPHY: JESS ROBERTS

When did you first open the boutique in Westport? I opened in March 2016 as the premier clean beauty boutique in Connecticut.

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18065 H

More ways to help you look and feel your best You want to look and feel your best. And you want to ensure that you entrust your care to the most skilled and fellowship-trained medical professionals. That’s the type of expertise you’ll receive with the cosmetic surgery services from Dr. E. Stirling Craig of Hartford HealthCare Medical Group. Procedures offered include: • Breast augmentation • Tummy tuck • Liposuction • Face lift • Injectable filler

Call 475.210.7002 for an appointment E. Stirling Craig, MD 1505 Post Road East Westport

HartfordHealthCare.org/Cosmetic

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Y R T IS TH

dia by

sem

bro

A few live performances to get very jazzed about are coming to the area this July and August

LEGEND: JULY 10

VINTAGE: AUG. 7

NEW: AUG. 20

Don’t miss out on experiencing a legend. Jazz trumpeter WYNTON MARSALIS comes to The Ridgefield Playhouse for a late-afternoon concert to end the weekend on a high note. Curtains rise at 4 p.m.; see details at ridgefieldplayhouse.org.

May not be jazz, technically, but certainly has a jazzy feel. We’re talking about STEELY DAN, which comes to the new Hartford HealthCare Amphitheater. Tickets and show details at livenation.com.

All that jazz continues in August with MUSIC AT MOCA: MARIEL BILDSTEN, a Jazz at Lincoln Center Emerging Artist. The trombonist plays a wide range of styles, pushing the music in innovative directions. Hear her play, locally, at MoCA Westport. See more at mocawestport.org.

PHOTOGRAPHY: MARSALIS BY PIPER-FERGUSON; BILDTEN, CONTRIBUTED

left: Jazz musician Wynton Marsalis comes to Ridgefield right: The emerging artist Mariel Bildsten comes to Westport

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2022-2023 EDUCATION GUIDE

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n o s i k t c ca o bl edu g t n i ea d PLUS! l gr i u a b 5 key questions e of for the decision h process t

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SCHOOL SEARCH

pg 36

EXTRA CREDIT

colorful accessories that make the grade pg 34 A CUSTOM PUBLICATION PRODUCED BY

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Confidence. It’s built over time. Our students graduate with the courage to have a point of view and the skills to express it, honed through years of practice.

UPCOMING ADMISSION EVENTS www.countryschool.net/visit

GO BOLDLY. 635 Frogtown Rd, New Canaan, CT • (203) 801-5608 New Canaan Country School is a co-ed, independent day school for students in Pre-K (ages 3 & 4) through Grade 9 living in Westchester and Fairfield counties. Graduates excel at top day, boarding and public secondary schools and go on to lead lives of impact and purpose. For more information, please visit countryschool.net.

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2022-2023 Education Guide

2022-2023 E D U CAT I O N G U I D E PUBLISHED BY MOFFLY MEDIA Publisher & Editorial Advisor Hilary Hotchkiss Editor Elizabeth Hole Senior Art Director Garvin Burke Assistant Art Director Lisa Servidio Production Director Tim Carr Contributing Market Editor Jessica Wells Digital Marketing Manager Rachel MacDonald

President Jonathan Moffly Chief Revenue Officer Andrew Amill Editorial Director Cristin Marandino Director of Content Strategy Diane Sembrot Vice President / Business Elena Moffly Founder & Editorial Advisor Donna Moffly For all inquiries regarding education marketing, contact Hilary Hotchkiss: Hilary.Hotchkiss@Moffly.com Digital version of 2022-2023 Education Guide: ilovefc.com/educationguide ilovefc.com • greenwichmag.com newcanaandarienmag.com • stamfordmag.com westportmag.com • fairfieldlivingmag.com

2022 EDUCATION GUIDE 1

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Curiosity, Creativity & Community

C NTENTS Features

The Liminal State

Schools Emerge with New Ways of Being and Doing by Rick Branson, Ed.D.

Beyond College

Establishing a Foundation for Overall Wellness by Matt Byrnes

Art Expression

Young Creators

Active Learning

Back on Track

Global Education

High School Search

Make Your Mark and See Where It Takes You by Lela Philip

34 school style // EXTRA CREDIT Colorful Accessories that Make the Grade by Jessica Wells

38 helpful hints // SCHOOL OUTREACH 39 directory // WHO TO CONTACT notable quotes // WELL SAID 40 How to Approach Each School

School Listings to Start Your Search Words of Wisdom from Educators

Exploring Ideas and Channeling Creativity by Nina Yuen The Importance of Inquiry in Early Education by Carol Maoz How to Develop Healthier Patterns as We Emerge from the Pandemic by Camille M. Bertram “My Life and Times” and Other Reflections by Eric Widmer and Meera Viswanathan 5 Key Questions to Guide the Decision Process by Kevin J. Altieri

COVER ART BY GARVIN BURKE; PRODUCT PHOTOGRAPH PROVIDED BY BRAND

Departments

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Admissi

Preparing boys for life in a changing world. An independent, college preparatory day school,

VISIT

providing character-based education for boys in Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 12.

g BrunswickSchool.ouort to learn more ab our admission process

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Curiosity, Creativity & Community

The Liminal State Schools Emerge with New Ways

of Being and Doing by

Rick Branson, Ed.D.

Executive Director / Connecticut Association of Independent Schools

n the article “How has the Past Year Changed You and Your Organization?” in the Harvard Business Review, authors Laura Empson and Jennifer HowardGrenville wrote about the pandemic creating a “liminal state,” which they describe as a “forced and prolonged separation from normal ways of being and doing.” While Empson and HowardGrenville were writing about business organizations, the context they provide certainly applies to schools. They make an important point about the end of the liminal state: when we emerge, we will be changed in lasting ways. Their big question remains: “How can we make the most of those changes, both for ourselves and our organizations?” Organizations across the country and around the world are rethinking their purpose, managing employee retention,

and considering where employees will live and work in the future. Schools have similar considerations, but disparate ones as well, including how we maximize our partnerships; how we can best support teachers and learners; and how schools can foster a sense of belonging. Independent schools are by definition, independent. In practice this means that schools are governed by their own boards of trustees that work in partnership with school leadership. Boards have three distinct modes in which they operate: fiduciary, strategic and generative. All operational decisions, such as curriculum and staffing, are the work of the Head of School and their senior leadership team. During the two years of the pandemic, independent school boards worked more closely with school leadership to guide the school through the challenges, and we are left to consider this crucial issue: “How can we make the most of this

change?” Certainly boards must stay out of school operations, but there is cause for reflection on what we learned about school and board partnerships and how schools might rethink that partnership and maximize the talent of the board trustees. We saw this happen when schools formed committees to address the pandemic and brought in medical expertise from their boards. Taken further, independent schools have formed deeper relationships within the state of Connecticut with local and regional departments of public health, with the state Department of Health, as well as with the state Department of Education. The value of those partnerships is significant and certainly valuable enough to be sustained. Independent schools are institutions of teaching and learning, and that purpose has rightfully broadened. Schools learned in concrete, profound ways the value of

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B G B B B B U B C B C U U C C C U U C C C U C C U C D C D C E U E D E E D

E E E E

GFAMo

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

look how deep the foundation is. Greens Farms Academy’s Class of 2022 matriculated to:

Boston College (2) Georgetown University (3) University of Rhode Island Greens Farms Academy’s Class of 2022 matriculated to: Boston University (2) University of Georgia University of Richmond (2) Brown University Grinnell College Santa ClaraofUniversity Boston College (2)(5) Georgetown University (3) University Rhode Island Bucknell University Hamilton Scripps College Boston University (2)(3) UniversityCollege of Georgia University of Richmond (2) University of California-Irvine Harvard Smith College Brown University (5) Grinnell University College Santa Clara University California Institute of the Arts Lafayette College (2) University of Southern Bucknell University (3) Hamilton College Scripps College California Polytechnic State Macalester College California University of California-Irvine Harvard University Smith College University-San Luis Obispo University of MassachusettsUniversity of St. Andrews California Institute of the Arts Lafayette College (2) University of Southern Carnegie Mellon University Amherst Syracuse University California State Macalester California University Polytechnic of Chicago (3) Merrimack College College Temple University University-San Luis Obispo University of MassachusettsUniversity of St. Andrews Claremont McKenna College Miami (3) Texas at Austin Colby College University Tulane University Carnegie Mellon University Amherstof MichiganSyracuse University Colgate University Ann Arbor Union University of Chicago (3) Merrimack College TempleCollege University Colorado (2) College Middlebury Villanova ClaremontCollege McKenna University ofCollege Miami (2) (3) UniversityUniversity of Texas at(4) Austin University of Connecticut (2) New York University (2) University of Virginia (4) Colby College University of MichiganTulane University Dartmouth College University of North Carolina - Wake Forest University Colgate University Ann Arbor Union College Duke University Chapel Hill Washington University Colorado College (2) Middlebury College (2) Villanova University (4) Eckerd College Northeastern University (2) in St Louis (3) University of Connecticut (2) New York University (2) University of Virginia Elon University (2) University of Notre Dame Wheaton College, MA(4) Dartmouth College University of North Carolina Forest University Emerson College Pennsylvania (3)- Wake Williams College (2) EmoryUniversity University Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute Washington Yale University Duke Chapel Hill University

Eckerd College Northeastern University (2) in St Louis (3) A Prek-12 co-ed independent school in westport, CT Elon University (2) University of Notre Dame Wheaton College, MA Emerson College University of Pennsylvania (3) Williams College (2) Emory University Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute Yale University

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Curiosity, Creativity & Community

community and being in community. During the pandemic schools worked to maintain this community, moving student assemblies to a virtual experience to foster connections, for example, and yet we know that faculty missed in-person collaboration, students missed in-person interactions, and parents yearned to be on campus and visit their children’s classrooms. The value of community goes beyond the benefits of in-person learning, as we understand more deeply the importance of being together as teachers and learners in multiple situations. At the same time, schools will continue to use the exceptional new tools of virtual learning in very precise and strategic ways, and use the time in class to provide greater opportunities for studentto-student and student-and-teacher collaboration. What we have learned has broadened our thinking and our practice regarding the purpose we serve as academic

institutions, and moreover, expanded our purpose as school communities. We are far more attuned to the social and emotional health of both teachers and learners. How we care for adults and students has come into very clear focus, as the trauma of the past two years is addressed intentionally and patiently. More importantly, a focus on the social and emotional health of the people in our schools will have a lasting and positive impact for our communities. In one small example, we understand better the value of our campus outdoor spaces that recharge us and invigorate us, and provide opportunities to both catch our breath as well as opportunities for people of all ages to play. The evolution of governance as partnership and schools as promoters of social and emotional well-being will not find its fullest potential until our communities are truly

places of belonging for all teachers and learners. This is a journey for our schools, and one that requires deep commitment as well as intentional action. We know this from the study of neuroscience—a stressed brain cannot learn; it can do other things, including flee or fight, but it cannot learn, create or connect. Fostering a community where each teacher and learner is their authentic self creates a place of learning that is vibrant and relational—a place where both teachers and learners can thrive. Nurturing and championing communities that value diverse identities, equitable practices and mutually meaningful connection between all members of the school community need to be prioritized for our future well-being. Independent schools can authentically engage community members as they learn to focus on uplifting the multiple facets of the human experience.

An independent junior boarding (5-9) and day school (Pre-K-9) in Washington, CT

We believe in honesty, kindness, and respect. We measure our success by our effort. These values connect us to each other.

rumseyhall.org Goudy Old Style Bold small caps

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2022-2023 Education Guide

An educational institution whose mission is to engender the intellectual and emotional thriving of all will shape the leaders of tomorrow to possess the skills to adapt to any national or international crisis. The pandemic paradoxically both distracted us from, as well as focused our attention on, the critical nature of belonging. The emergence from this “liminal state” provides an incredible opportunity to return to the big question Empson and Howard-Grenville asked, and to apply it to our sense of belonging: “How can we make the most of those changes, both for ourselves and our organizations?” Independent schools are poised to embrace the answer and to model the practices needed to maximize the collective and individual talent in the community. We are always looking forward; we constantly ask about the future of education. How will we use virtual

" We are far more attuned to the social and emotional health of both teachers and learners. "

learning and the tools provided by the virtual landscape within the structure of in-person learning? How can we help students prepare to ask and to answer the biggest questions facing the planet and its climate? How will we address the great inequities that exist across the planet and in times of scarcity of resources? The experiences of the pandemic may not have provided complete clarity on those questions, but perhaps we have learned something new and important about how schools will face the next global pandemic that certainly awaits us. There are clear opportunities to consider how we can maximize our governance partnership, the social and emotional health of our communities, and the quest to build schools of belonging. The challenge of our schools is to consider whether what we have learned can and will generate permanent, new “normal ways of being and doing.”

NO GLASS CEILING HERE. Design an app. Observe the stars. Take the ball and run with it. You think there are limits? We beg to differ. Girls’ school grads are six times more likely to consider majoring in math, science, and technology than girls who attended coed schools. We inspire young women to be thoughtful global leaders.

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Beyond College

Establishing a Foundation for Overall Wellness by

Matt Byrnes

Head of School / Wooster School

ear the beginning of a talk that I give to prospective parents at our school open houses, I ask them to think about the image of their children when they are forty, an adult in the future. What do they want for them? What would be the best outcomes for them based upon what they’ve learned in their own lives? In doing this, I am recreating a series of focus groups we did years ago, work which helped us to set the course we’ve been on for nearly a decade. What we did then, and what I ask parents to do now, is to lift our eyes, look into our hearts, and find a place beyond college to serve as the touchstone for our school. What we learned then, and have confirmed through the years, is that parents want their adult children to have

deep, meaningful relationships in their lives—to love and be loved. They want a family and fulfilling work of some kind. Parents envision future adults who still have a sense of wonder about the world and who want to engage in making it better, even if just at the community level. They frequently mention lifelong learners, and people who have managed to achieve a sense of balance and wellness in life. Not surprisingly, they want the life that most of us want to be living as adults (remember that this is aspirational!). What parents don’t generally talk about is income or the relative prestige of a job. Fame, fortune and power are conspicuously absent. Certainly no one says, “It is most important to me that my child at forty will have attended a highly ranked and well-known college or university.”

I have no reason to think that if I gave this talk to different groups of parents from different towns around our country, the results would be any different. When parents slow down and think more deeply and clearly about future outcomes, when they step out of the desperate achievement race that culture, media, and schools themselves have forced them to run with their children, it is then that they can tap into the wisdom they’ve accrued over their own lives and see beyond college. Judging by the reactions I normally get, this is a place where parents would like to go more often. In my talk, after having taken us decades into the future, we then come back to the present. If these are the lives we seek for our children, how can we best help them get there? How can they become balanced, engaged and fulfilled

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adults that we all strive to be ourselves? Of course the foundation building begins at home, and then extends into school, where our children spend so many of their waking hours—the de facto center of the American social experiment. If these are the outcomes we want later in life, what role should schools play in preparing them for that journey? Rather than talking about rigor, competition and high-stakes assessments, often pointed to as gold standards when measuring the worth of our schools, I talk about human development and learning. These are the lenses we need to look through as we consider how to achieve our future goals for children. At the heart of human development and thriving is relationships, so that is where we begin. Is the school focused on developing strong relationships among students and between students and

adults? Does the school demonstrate through its actions and programs that fostering a sense of belonging, which is central to relationship building and learning, is a foundational element of their work? Again, we turn to our experience as adults. A person who is able to establish and cultivate strong relationships—in school, at work, in life—has likely established the foundation for overall wellness. In the audience, heads begin to nod. Yes. While most schools recognize that better learning and more positive behaviors result when relationships are stronger and more numerous, most do very little to intentionally foster those relationships. Instead, they focus on sorting students into groups based upon their performance in a competitive, time-deprived learning environment. Learning is not orchestrated according

to the realities of a child's readiness— developmentally, emotionally, and practically. Rather, all are required to listen to the same tune. The race to demonstrate some understanding of content then begins. It’s a race that largely needs to be run alone. Getting too much help is frowned upon, and helping others is detrimental to one’s own future success in the sorting process. In this high-stakes environment, fostering strong relationships, which requires empathy, collaboration and sometimes a temporary sacrifice of one’s own ambitions, becomes quite difficult. Many schools hope that strong relationships will be a byproduct of proximity and the necessity of personal interaction within the system. Hallways, schoolyards, sports fields and band rooms are good places for social interaction, but students need guideposts and intentional

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learning for thoughtful relationship building in those venues. Hopefully, everyone finds their group, but hope is not a curriculum. But in a system designed to designate winners and losers, the intentional fostering of relationship skills and the hard-edged competition to “be the best” are almost diametrically opposed. The alternative is for schools to center on the individual learner, teaching the skills of thinking and reflection, celebrating difference, and creating a sense of safety and belonging by requiring that students get to know each other in classes where small group learning is essential. I go on to talk about learning how to think, about building self-awareness and the ability to recognize and regulate emotions, particularly as they relate to behavior and choices. We like using the term “making thinking visible” with students. What are you thinking and why? How can you think more deeply? Better thinking and the skills that come with it build understanding and knowledge, which can then be applied to the next challenge. There are skills to learn, and yes, facts to remember—hard work and practice, too. This recursive process takes time and expert engagement and feedback from teachers. When done well, the outcome is a stronger, more confident and capable self. At this point, in the audience, a number of people will now be making eye contact with their spouse or child. A look that says, “This is sounding familiar.” As a teacher, this always makes me happy, because I see understanding and an interest in knowing more. Things are making sense. Our examination of our future fortyyear-old’s life would not be complete without touching on the world of work, which is like school for adults. What are the skills and dispositions that the top companies want in their employees? This is public knowledge because they talk a lot about it. Send us people who know how to collaborate, they say, who know how to learn in non-standard 10

situations, who ask good questions and are great listeners. Send us people who want to be a part of something bigger than themselves. This sounds familiar. It sounds like many companies want to create that same culture of belonging, with people who have a strong sense of self, and well-developed thinking and work skills. Why do they struggle to find such people? Could it be that so many of their prospective employees have come through schools that don’t value or intentionally teach these things? I finish my talk with the question that so many prospective parents have on their minds: What about college? I always lead with survey data from the Gallup-Purdue study, which ran from 2014-20 and which measures the success and well-being of college graduates later in life. The survey has consistently found that success and well-being later in life are more likely to occur for people who found two strong mentors in college and were actively engaged with their peers in extracurricular activities. In other words, people who forged strong relationships in college. The survey also supports the idea that longer term, deeper work in college, projects that directly apply what is being learned, also correlate highly with future workplace well-being. What does not correlate, and never has, is higher levels of well-being and the rank or perceived prestige of the college or university attended. Read that last one again, parents: Where your child goes to college is far less important than how they go. Are they prepared to get involved, to seek mentorships, to explore new ideas and challenges and apply them in authentic contexts? Is your high school intentionally preparing them for this or simply for the process of “winning” the college search process? I finish by showing an imagined life trajectory which runs from our high school through college and then into work and the independent, adult world. I emphasize that the journey should be somewhat unpredictable, even by design, as the choices which determine directions

and outcomes can only be made as the life journey unfolds and new knowledge is gained. Trying to predict or stay on a predetermined path, if it prevents the development of those life affirming relationships, or leads one to a work life that is misaligned with one's talents or true interests, can result in an adult who is not experiencing well-being, despite sometimes appearing to have “succeeded” by the standards of wealth and/or prestige. As I look around, the room is quiet, and the nodding has stopped. Parents are thinking about their own journey, and that of their child. Perhaps they are thinking beyond college. As the Head of a local independent school, and long-time public school teacher, coach and administrator in the region, I have to accept that I have been complicit in perpetuating this apparent disconnect between what we really want for our children’s future—a healthy, meaningful life—and what we actually year about how our brains function, how we learn, how influential natural human development is when looked at in the context of school, I have worked to help create a school environment which is moving away from a focus on college admission as its primary mission and toward the future health and well-being of our students. Well-being which does, in fact, include success and security in areas like personal finances, job satisfaction, and continued progress toward personal and professional goals. Not surprisingly, we’ve also found that colleges like that we are preparing them for the kinds of engagement and learning that they want their undergraduates to pursue. What I have learned and seek to share through this essay is that when we all look away from the grim horizon of competitive college admissions and toward the brighter one of future wellness and dare I say—happiness— parents, students, and schools can benefit and thrive.

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Art Expression Make Your Mark, Unlock Your Creative and See Where it Takes You by

Lela Philip

Elementary Art Teacher / Brunswick School and Greenwich Academy

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have taught hundreds of art lessons over the past fifteen years, and there is nothing more satisfying than witnessing the glee of a child discovering what a mark on a paper or a blob of paint can do! Author Peter H. Reynolds and his book, The Dot, has inspired so many to do just that: make their mark. In the art room there are no wrong answers. The anxiety, stress and pressure that can sometimes accompany academic tasks vanish and are replaced by the peace of mind that comes with unlocking your creative side. It is a judgment-free zone, where students think less about performance and more about the joy of self-expression and the process of making art. Often, I remind the class that they are the artists and I am there to provide the materials and guide them if they need

help; but in the end, it’s up to them to make a few decisions along the way and be happy with what they’ve created. I love watching a child begin to see things from a different perspective. For example, the first time they are asked to look at a tree, they often describe it as brown. Upon closer examination, they are able to see that it isn’t really brown. They may see varieties of gray, purple and even green. This realization of things often taken for granted opens up a larger creative world for these young artists. “What color is the shadow in snow?” I ask. The students usually shout out “White!” Looking more closely toward the snow-covered playground, they soon discover that the shadows are more like lavender and bluish tones. After the students have opened their eyes to all this color information, some of

the complexities of color are now open for discussion. What color are the tables, or the floor tile, or the metal sink? And so on. Students really see that everything is an “ish” color, greenish-bluish and not exactly the pure color from the Crayola crayon box! When using paints, often there’s a shout-out from an excited little artist, “DISCOVERY! I mixed a lot of this blue with a little of that yellow, and I made bluish-green!” Toward the end of class, the little artists are adding last-minute touches to their work and eager to take it home after school. Hopefully, they skip off down the hall feeling like they accomplished something that was neither wrong nor right, but a step closer to a more confident self and experiencing relief from stress in our busy world through creativity.

Lela Philip will be retiring at the end of this year to concentrate on her own artwork. / You can find her at LelaPhilipStudio.com

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Young Creators Exploring Ideas and Channeling Creativity by

Nina Yuen

Chair of Computer Science / Greens Farms Academy

he creation of something original is a harrowing task. Be it an innovative, problem-solving design or a piece of visual art, the ideation that must happen to get there requires confidence, a suspension of disbelief, and a degree of magical thinking. It requires a harnessing of the self-editor, that nagging inner critic that often leads creators to dismiss an idea as impossible too soon. Perhaps most importantly, it requires a level of comfort navigating ambiguity—the ability to sit in the awkward space of not knowing how something will turn out. Traditional thinking about art and

design education presumes that once a person absorbs a certain amount of knowledge—logs the hours, gains the credentials—they are ready to create. I argue that the best ideas, the wildly radical ones, can come from young people who are uniquely positioned to create and absorb at the same time. And the good news: the researchers at Stanford’s d.school have outlined a list of design abilities that encourage students and educators to recognize and develop their own creative potential. These design abilities are bedrocks of my Design and Visual Arts courses at Greens Farms Academy in Westport, and many are surprised to learn that they all occur

before a prototype is created, before the pen touches the paper. It is a critical selfconfidence tool for young creators. The ability to push through self-doubt (the “Who will ever use this?” “What makes this piece of art ‘good?’”) in a young artist’s mind is priceless. There is no IKEA manual when you are in the process of creating something that doesn’t exist, and the wherewithal to navigate the unknown and have confidence to move forward is one of the primary skills design schools seek to teach. The relevance of this skill set beyond artistic creation is not hard to imagine either. So how can we systematically encourage students to

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create with confidence? Follow steps one through five, rinse and repeat. Step 1 Come up with Constraints Challenging yourself to build something within a specific set of parameters unleashes creativity in a surprising way—it demystifies the blank slate. When creators are given no guidelines the idea that anything is possible can paralyze them—practicing creation within a particular framework demystifies the process and actually fosters more creativity and a better, more original product. It seems counterintuitive but these guidelines force students to be more productive. For example, in our design courses when I say, “You have total free reign to solve any problem, using any technology but you must use robots.”— or in visual art we often do this with

mediums: this is a photography project, this is a charcoal drawing—it allows people to channel their creativity. Step 2 Embrace the Bad with the Good The best ideas are just refined bad ideas. This is a refrain my students will hear again and again. Of course, it is often not until they see this actually happen that they believe this to be true. More often in the early stages of ideation. When brainstorming in art and design, my students are encouraged to throw out as many ideas as pop into their heads and take them for a spin. Too often ideas are dismissed as impossible too early without spending the time to consider the reasons for their impossibility. Some of the most original work derives from just beyond the realm of that concept of “possible.” Teaching students the patience to sit with

that discomfort and to develop an ability for sticking with a problem a little longer than feels comfortable is a skill for life well beyond art and design creation. Step 3 Socialize Ideas Teenagers are an inherently social cohort, and yet feedback, particularly on original ideas or artwork, is not always comfortable to give or receive. Creating a space where students feel safe enough to bring their ideas—even the notyet-refined bad ideas—to crowdsource among their peers is an essential piece of my curriculum. This is the process of choosing to make ideas better and it requires a vulnerability and flexibility on the part of the creator. The work of sharing the ideas or early prototypes of artwork forces students to express their process and goals and then receive

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feedback. It forces their peers to respond with thoughtful, honest feedback that involves ideas in addition to what is not working. These discussions are some of the most imaginative, and it is incredible to watch students build each other up rather than shut ideas down. Step 4 Combination The pressure to come up with that one good idea is enormous and usually unattainable. It is important for students—and everyone—to remember that more often than not the best creations are a combination of several pretty basic ideas. The act of marrying these concepts together is what brings the originality and ingenuity—the beauty, in the case of visual art. For example, one of my students was working on a new system for book-finding in a library, and

he came up with three ideas: a GPS for the floors, light-up arrows for the aisles, and a robotic arm for the shelves. Instead of choosing between the three concepts, he realized he had to ask himself when his device needed to detect his location, light up or move, so he could elegantly braid all three ideas into his final design. Step 5 Ask Yourself, "What Does Success Look Like ... For Me?" Arguably my favorite step in this creative process is this final one where students are given the authority to dictate how and by what criteria their idea and their creation will be judged. The students are encouraged to revisit the original problem they were trying to solve and then come up with the terms of their success. One of the most interesting takeaways for me as a teacher is not only how

innovative students’ original work becomes when they use this framework but, as importantly, how it makes them feel. Understanding these steps and how to use them helps students feel safe in the not-knowing. We can develop a sense of trust in the process that takes the pressure off the artist or the inventor to have all the answers up front. And while my courses focus practically on the creation of visual art and original design, there is so much confidence that can be gleaned from this process and applied to “ideas” beyond the realms of STEAM and art. The minds of this generation are fascinating to observe. There is a sweet spot where children transition from magical thinking to real-world creativity. When students are young there is a childlike quality to problem-solving where the ideas they throw out include invisibility cloaks or a new species of

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animal that doesn’t exist. Their minds bend between the realms of the possible and impossible. For so many adults there is a moment where that ends. What I am noticing in adolescents today who have witnessed the wild expansion of technology in their lifetimes is that they are slower to dismiss things as impossible. Their minds are open to what the future might look like regarding things like artificial intelligence and virtual reality— their editor selves are maybe not as strong as the generations before them, which is a really beautiful thing. Independent schools, GFA included, have made huge strides in recent years toward prioritizing inquiry projects and original work. Giving young people the opportunity to engage in original, selfguided work as part of their educational journey rather than as a capstone to that journey gives students awareness

of their own unique abilities to navigate ambiguity. Each student or group of students will progress through these five steps to creative ideation differently and yet each will walk away more confident about the idea they are forming and themselves: the designer or artist. We are encouraging them to be bold and try things out before knowing exactly how they're going to do them and having all the answers. To me the five-step process helps students put one foot in front of the other to start to see things as doable. The way out of the stickiness of the editor-self is in the doing. Our students are becoming more and more accustomed to walking into a classroom knowing there will be equal parts doing and absorbing. The tricky part for them is figuring out how to evaluate an original idea. They wonder: “If I am the only one doing this, how will I know if it is

excellent or not?” and that can be scary. In these situations, I explain how a big part of the success of the thing they're doing is being able to tell the story of what they did and why. That process-narrative is an identity story that not only helps students develop a voice to explain their work, but also encourages them to think about how they describe themselves to the world. These creative strategies are a useful way of getting unstuck—unstuck to the idea that something will not work, unstuck to the disappointment when a first or second attempt fails, and unstuck to the idea that there is one standard for success. They allow students to look at a problem from a different perspective and to get wild in their thinking to come up with radical and yet attainable solutions. And, we need this generation to have confidence in their wild, radical solutions, don’t we?

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At Whitby, we know your child. We always know where your child is academically and socially, all while challenging and supporting them to achieve their personal best. Our teachers constantly observe, evaluate and engage students to take charge of their own learning.

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Active Learning The Importance of Inquiry in PreK-Grade 12 by

s an educator, I am constantly asking myself: How can students achieve the deepest learning? How can we help our students learn in its truest form? I am referring to the kind of learning that sticks, learning that delivers skills and foundational knowledge but also creates a sense of meaning, confidence and desire to take it to the next level. It begins with students becoming agents in their own learning. When students are exploring, reflecting, questioning, evaluating, making connections—and teachers are creating and guiding these moments of discovery—students are truly learning. This is called inquiry-based learning, and it can be done at every grade level and in every discipline. Inquiry is not limited to the sciences. Students develop a research mindset and apply that approach to all subject matters. They learn to search and re-search. From discovering the world around them in pre-kindergarten to crafting complex and

Carol Maoz

Head of School / King School

multidisciplinary senior projects, students embrace learning through discovery, exploration, and hands-on experiences. Every aspect of the educational experience should prioritize and optimize engagement—from the wide variety of active, immersive learning experiences to intentional efforts to reach each and every student. True engagement is the entire community’s commitment to excellence in learning. This approach to education is driven by exploration, curiosity, and play. This begins with the youngest learners, the pre-kindergarten students. Recently, our littlest detectives armed themselves with a jug of water, a few wooden boards, notepads, and a plan to uncover what types of creatures are inhabiting the nature trail on the King campus. They flattened mud and sprinkled seeds and lettuce to create “a critter tracker,” a device that would preserve the imprints of different species that crossed the mud, allowing students to examine the footprints and unlock the mystery of what types of animals are living in their

midst. This is a perfect example of an inquirybased learning approach. Through this activity, the students observed, planned, collaborated, and asked lots of questions. Questions like: what animals live on campus; why don’t we see them all the time; do these animals live near me? Their young minds are developing the skills of observation through exploration and play, and this project allowed them to do just that. Our fifth-grade students recently studied ancient Egypt. How did they do this? They rolled up their sleeves and created projects featuring Egyptian hieroglyphics, King Tut’s tomb, an informational display of the Nile River, pyramids, mummies and more. The projects were meant to represent different aspects of ancient Egypt, but students were also encouraged to connect them to their own interests. “I wanted to study sports because that’s something that I’m interested in,” said Paxton Freeman, ’29. “I wondered about what types of activities the

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Egyptians used to do for fun and started researching sports that were around back then. That led me to archery.” Inspired, Paxton made a target, an arrow and a crossbow out of cardboard box and wood for his project. “The projects are a great example of the active learning that happens when you let students ask questions and lead in their own learning,” said fifth grade teacher Helen Santoro. “When students make connections, it makes it meaningful, and they dive deeper into it. They realize they want to learn more, and that leads to other learning.” Teachers are not only experts in their fields; they are experts in childhood and adolescence. They know how children learn and what is developmentally appropriate. Teachers should constantly ask themselves, “What would my students try if they were not afraid of

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failure? What would they dream without preconceived notions? What would they do if they knew they could make a difference?” These questions allow teachers to create environments where students feel supported and encouraged to explore new interests, seek answers and challenge themselves. Therefore, students ask more questions, explore more ideas and make bigger plans. They become fully engaged, present — and unafraid of being themselves. Our middle school students engaged in a project that explored the role of activism in effecting social change. Their teachers put together a list of over 80 activists under the age of 25 for the students to research. The idea behind the age group of these agents of change was for students to find them relatable. Once the students identified an activist

of interest, they created a project of their choice that best represented their research and learning, such as a web page, artwork, a dialogue or presentation. Presentations ranged from climate change to education reform and the rights of individuals with disabilities. Amy, ’26, and her partner, Gillian, ’26, designed a staircase with an accessibility ramp out of popsicle sticks to show that “With the right support and advocacy, people with disabilities can achieve just as much, if not more, than anybody else,” Amy said. Their chosen activist, Anna Landre, has spinal muscular atrophy and is an activist for disability rights. Not only do the projects encourage students to connect with a cause, but they also challenge them to come up with innovative solutions to promote change in the world around them. Students embark on a full exploration

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of self and others. When students are given the opportunity to go wide and deep—uncover new interests, challenge their abilities, hear different perspectives and share their voices—they gain a better understanding of themselves and their purpose. Upper school students built a three-dimensional model city made of buildings and vehicles designed to address real-world issues. To begin the project, students were prompted to empathize with a cause or community and ask themselves, “Who do I want to help and what do they need?” Once they defined a problem they wanted to solve, they began formulating ideas for how the design of their prototype might provide a solution to that problem. Design thinking is the concept of using design to construct a solution to an issue. “For my project, I raised my building on stilts to avoid water damage in areas

that are highly susceptible to flooding and gave the roof a sleek slant to ensure no rain or debris would catch onto the building,” said Madeline Werner, ’25. Other students drew from their passions to identify an area of improvement. Jayden Grayson, ’25, expanded on his interest in off-roading vehicles to design a utility terrain vehicle that makes it easier for communities in remote areas, such as deserts or mountainous regions, to access resources. The students also used computeraided design (CAD) software to create digital designs of their prototypes. All of the three-dimensional prototypes were brought together to form a model city aptly named “City of the Future.” These are just examples of the types of learning that happen in classrooms. Learning that is centered around research and inquiry, learning that

RYE COUNTRY DAY SCHOOL

Not for Self, but for Service —School motto

Providing students from Pre-K through Grade 12 with an excellent education using both traditional and innovative approaches.

CAMPUS

26 acres featuring state-of-the-art academic, athletic, and creative facilities. Conveniently accessible by train. Students and faculty commute from Fairfield and Westchester counties and New York City. Explore campus at www.ryecountryday.org/virtualtour

SIGNATURE INITIATIVES • Health & Wellness • Diversity & Inclusion • Educational Technology • Global Studies • Public Purpose • STEAM • Sustainability

begins with true student engagement. True engagement leads to the highest level of individual student achievement. Students take on greater academic challenges and find the greatest opportunities for growth through discovery, exploration, and participation as their full selves. Students bring their whole selves to school every day, because of the supportive environment they find among their teachers and peers. Students learn to embrace and celebrate themselves and others. When students feel valued and respected, they become fully engaged in deep and transformative learning. True engagement leads to learning in its truest form. It prepares students to be ready for the next step in their education—and it creates the best opportunity for students to live happy, healthy, successful and purposeful lives.

CORE VALUES R C

RESPECT & RESPONSIBILITY

DIVERSITY WITHIN AN INCLUSIVE COMMUNITY

SERVICE

COMMITMENT TO PERSONAL & ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE

WILDCATS RY E C O U N T RY D AY S C H O O L A T H L E T I C S

COLLEGE MATRICULATION

The most popular college choices for RCDS students in 2017-2021 Cornell University (28) University of Pennsylvania (25) Harvard University (18) New York University (15) Northwestern University (13) Brown University (12)

University of Chicago (12) Colgate University (12) Duke University (12) Georgetown University (12) University of Michigan (12) Bucknell University (11)

Number of students attending in parentheses

RCDS BY THE NUMBERS

900+ students

39%

self-identify as people of color

40+

NY and CT school districts represented

$6.3M

distributed for financial aid

7:1

student/ faculty ratio

average class size

Learn more and apply at ryecountryday.org/admissions RCDS_ad 2_7_65 x 4_5_Mofley.indd 1

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Back on Track How to Develop Healthier Patterns as We Emerge from the Pandemic by

Camille M. Bertram

Certified Educational Planner and Founder / The Bertram Group

he image from spring 2020 is etched indelibly in our minds: our students, huddled in their bedrooms, headphones on and attending class online. The pandemic upended everything and rocked our world on so many levels. This included routines, behaviors and boundaries between parents and their kids. Moms and dads, accustomed to sending their children to school for eight hours a day—or even having them live in boarding school dormitories with house parents—suddenly found themselves with a front row seat to every stilted Zoom class and awkward social interaction. This new window into the challenging world of adolescence arrived as parents faced unprecedented anxiety themselves. Dr. Thomas Callahan, Educational Psychologist and a therapeutic placement specialist, explains the dynamic this way: “None of us are at our best when we're distressed, when we're afraid, when we're sad or when we're anxious. Those feelings are kryptonite to relationships. Parents are having more difficulty attending to their kids because they are not attuned well to themselves, due to all the changes they're experiencing.” Adding additional stress, the

pandemic unfolded during a period of immense social and cultural intensity including important social justice issues and a divisive political climate and a presidential election. “Our students have been trying to find a sense of normalcy during a highly unusual period of time,” says Charlie Cahn, Head of School at Suffield Academy in Suffield, CT. The results, according to these and other experts, were dramatic. Parents understandably became more deeply involved in managing their students’ lives at older ages than ever before. “I don't think there should be any sense of blaming parents because they’re right to be concerned about the well-being of their children—those are good instincts from parents,” says Peter Becker, Head of School at The Frederick Gunn School in Washington, CT. “None of us liked the situation we were in.” Becker’s school has its own example of how the norms adjusted as COVID took over. Before the pandemic, Gunn did not give parents access to student academic records in real time. Parents could not look up performance on a test or a quiz immediately; they had to wait until the end of the quarter, just like parents did when we were kids. However, when students headed home as the pandemic began, Gunn administrators gave

parents access to the online gradebook, recognizing that their role was changing during that unusual period. The problem, I am told, is that as we emerge into this nascent, post-pandemic world, not all our patterns are shifting back. Becker knows how that happens. “Though it is developmentally important for high school students to navigate assignments and grades without direct input from parents, parents at Gunn still have access to grades in real time even though students have been back in person since the fall of 2020,” Becker says. The question for all of us is how to put the genie back in the bottle as things return toward normal. “What is an unspoken part of the pandemic is how those relationships have been blurred. There's a term that we use for unhealthy relationships, and that's ‘enmeshed,’” says Dr. Callahan. “The layman’s way of thinking about this is that the child sneezes and the parent catches the cold. So a parent would see classroom behavior on a screen—which is not necessarily reflective of behavior in a classroom—but during COVID saw their kids under stress and they immediately wanted to fill that void.” That meant that parents stepped in to try to fix things. They helped more with homework, woke up their kids who could

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have tackled that themselves, and stepped in to demand that schools intervene in peer squabbles. The pandemic also disrupted roles between parents and teachers. “I think it blurred lines between parents, who essentially were facilitating homeschooling, and the professional educators at schools, and I think that has complicated the relationship,” says Jody Reilly Soja, Head of School at Indian Mountain School in Lakeville, CT. These professionals say, all these changes can stunt children’s growth, leaving them stuck at a younger age developmentally. There are solutions, however. School leaders and professional psychologists have shared some 8 great tips to get us all back on track: No. 1 Take care of yourself first. This reminds me of when the flight attendant

asks parents to put their oxygen masks on first before they can properly do so for their children. Re-double your focus on eating well, sleeping well and exercising regularly. Also, be kind to yourself. None of us do this perfectly! No. 2 Expect your student to do developmentally appropriate things, such as get themselves up for school in the morning, make a healthy breakfast, pack their own lunch, manage their homework and do their own laundry. Becker says these are all reasonable expectations for most students by the eighth grade. No. 3 Give your child the opportunity to try—and the freedom to fail. This means letting them do their homework, manage social challenges, and advocate for themselves with teachers and coaches.

No. 4 Stop regularly checking online grade books. If you want to check in, ask your child how things are going. Trust their teachers to let you know if there is a problem. No. 5 Let kids solve their own problems. If you find yourself at odds with a teacher, a coach, or a fellow parent, pause and take a breath. Ask yourself what you are reacting to, and if it is necessary for you to step in. No. 6 Seek professional help if appropriate. “If the parents find that their feelings are dictated by their child's feelings—if their child is sad and so that makes them sad, if their child is anxious, so that makes them anxious, if their child is angry, so they become an angry, that's a sign that professional help could be helpful,” says Dr. Callahan.

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No. 7 Remember your child can handle challenges. Dr. Callahan recommends the following script: “Okay, this challenge is new. This is different. This is hard, but I have confidence in you as a growing person to be able to identify some ways that are good for you to get through this, and I’ll support you in those efforts.” No. 8 Consider boarding school or even junior boarding school. “One of the best gifts that kids get when they come to a school like ours is a sense of independence. The ability to ask for help from other adults in their lives, and to take ownership of their work is so important for their growth and development,” says Soja. Becker and Cahn echoed Soja’s sentiments. “It’s really good for the parent and the child to go through the process of the child developing the agency over

"I think the pandemic made more families realize that providing a world-class educational experience for our children is one of the greatest gifts."

their own learning,” Becker says. “Yes, there are bumps and that's part of the child developing. It is age appropriate in high school for students to have places that have minimal adult presence. That feels scary to everybody involved, but that's what we're training them to do—to exercise that risk. Taking healthy risks is hard, but kids need to practice making mistakes.” Boarding schools are great at allowing students to grow by taking risks with appropriate guidance. “We know some certainties about adolescence that help shape our philosophy: high expectations need to be balanced with encouragement; and clear boundaries and rules with room to experiment and grow,” says Cahn. “We need to combine this with firm, developmentally appropriate guidance. This challenge—blending some non-negotiable standards of conduct with room for adolescents to

EMPOWERING

CREATIVE THINKERS

Students at The Masters School discover their voices, grow as artists and athletes, and learn to think critically and independently. Grades 5-12. Fall tours start Sept. 14, Open House: October 15 mastersny.org | Dobbs Ferry, NY

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build psychological autonomy—rests at the heart of parenting and of leading a secondary school.” This approach has beautiful results. “We've got a bunch of first-time boarding families,” says Becker. “They had a good relationship with their son or daughter, and now they have an evolutionarily better relationship with them, because they see their kids thriving living away from home,” Becker reports. “So, the parents are happy with their child and themselves. The parents are happy with the school. The whole family dynamic has evolved to this really beautiful sort of next phase.” “I think the pandemic made more families realize that providing a worldclass educational experience for our children is one of the greatest gifts,” says Cahn at Suffield. “We are so fortunate as residential schools to

Book Recs for Parents Experts share their favorites A Failure of Nerve: Leadership in the Age of the Quick Fix by Edwin H. Friedman and Peter Steinke And Then They Stopped Talking to Me: Making Sense of Middle School by Judith Warner Attack of the Teenage Brain by John Medina NurtureShock: New Thinking About Children by Po Bronson and Ashley Merryman The Gift of Failure: How the Best Parents Learn to Let Go So Their Children Can Succeed by Jessica Lahey The Self-Driven Child: The Science and Sense of Giving Your Kids More Control over Their Lives by Ned Johnson, William Stixrud, PhD

have vast amounts of space for a limited number of students. Therefore we didn't have to worry about hybrid programs or whether we had enough room in the classroom to stay socially distanced. All of a sudden, this kind of education moved higher on the list of things families wanted to provide for their children.” Whatever your child’s educational setting, the experts I spoke with expressed confidence that we can turn in a healthy direction again. “I am very optimistic that our kids are going to become more resilient than we give them credit for,” says Becker. “I think if we flip the script and constantly remind these young men and women about how strong they are and what they've just endured, these kids are going to actually come out stronger and more resilient than we have seen in the last couple of generations.”

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The Middle East Eastern Europe Latin America Southeast Asia Africa Russia China Japan

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Global Education My Life and Times and Other Reflections by

Eric Widmer Former Head of School at Deerfield Academy and King’s Academy in Amman, Jordan Meera Viswanathan Head of School at The Ethel Walker School

think that I should begin by explaining why the title of this reflective essay is in quotation marks. It happens to be the title of the book that my great-grandfather, Cyrus Hamlin, wrote about his life, our family, but especially about his time in Turkey and as the founder of Robert College in 1863. So I have borrowed the title, not to be presumptuous about my own life, but rather as a way of referencing my family’s involvement in global education, going back to the nineteenth century, which as I think about it, is actually where my own story began. Cyrus Hamlin It was in 1839 that my great-grandfather Cyrus, a Congregational minister in Maine, quite suddenly volunteered to be dispatched to Turkey by the American Board of Foreign Missions. But at heart he soon realized that he was less a missionary than an educator. Or, he might have asked, wouldn’t school teaching be a more effective extension of his work in Ottoman Turkey, reconsidering its place in the world and soon allied with France and Britain in the Crimean War against Russia? The American Board did not agree. Cyrus was thereupon able to concentrate his resources and Yankee ingenuity where he believed it mattered most, helping Florence Nightingale ministering to wounded soldiers in the British military

hospital in the Scutari district, across the Dardanelles from Istanbul. Most notably, he offered his support, by baking loaves of bread and doing the laundry in great (but empty!) beer vats, leading famously to the founding of Robert College. And what a testament to the founder, that the school is still going strong today in Istanbul, surely among the foremost of Turkey’s international schools. Cyrus went back to the United States where he became president of Middlebury College, but in his heart always “la voile est prête, et Byzance m’appelle,” as the poet André Chénier notes. My great-grandfather’s assistance to Florence Nightingale was surely a factor in the decision of his granddaughter, my mother, to become a nurse—with a Registered Nursing degree from Yale and an M.A. in Chemistry from the University of Vermont after graduating from Wellesley, and to respond to a plea from a hospital in Bogotá and establish in Colombia the country’s first national program in public health in 1928 under the auspices of the Rockefeller Foundation. Returning to America, she was quickly recommended by the Foundation to be the founding dean of the first collegiate school of nursing in Lebanon at the American University of Beirut. There she met and married my father, who was French, the Director of the French Section of the Boys’ Prep School, soon to become International College when it moved to Beirut from

Smyrna. And it was therefore in Beirut, at the AUB Hospital, that I was born. World Languages I can see that I took into my own life the impulse of an educator following familial lines, not necessarily restricted to work only in my “adoptive” country of America. For whatever career awaited me, however, I had to somehow be prepared. And that meant, first of all, studying world languages. I began with Latin, Greek and French in high school (Deerfield) and Russian and German in college (Williams) and then Chinese, Japanese, Mongolian and Manchu in graduate school (Harvard). During that time I spent a semester in the Soviet Union and a year in Taiwan. In my first academic position (Brown), I began by teaching Chinese and Central Asian History, but twenty-five years later, my old school (Deerfield) asked me to come back as Head of School. At least I could introduce the teaching of Arabic, and find myself in the first class! As I think of all the twists and turns in my life, it is hard not to imagine that somehow a kind of destiny is involved, and that I was simply following in the footsteps of my great-grandfather, and my mother, and even my absent father in finding myself back in the Middle East as the founding Head of School of King’s Academy in Jordan. But in retrospect, it seemed to happen fortuitously. 2022 EDUCATION GUIDE 29

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Establishing King's Academy It was in 1999 that Abdullah Ibn alHussain acceded to the Hashemite throne of Jordan as its monarch. Abdullah was a graduate of Deerfield in the class of 1980, and always loyal to his school. For me it had been Deerfield ’57, but I was now in my fifth year as Head of School. Wouldn’t it at least be worth sending an invitation to His Majesty King Abdullah, to return to his old school and speak to our graduating seniors the next year at the Commencement exercises in 2000— just to test the possibility? Well, HMK Abdullah responded very agreeably, and he indeed privileged us with his presence and a rousing commencement oration. It was an appropriate mixture of royal pomp and kingly cheeseburgers for him and his many Deerfield classmates who had returned to celebrate with him. He stayed at the manse (Head of School’s house) with my wife Meera and

me culminating with an unforgettable breakfast on Commencement morning. It is a story I enjoy telling, because it was at that moment King’s Academy had its founding and that His Majesty would be reciprocating the opportunity Deerfield had given to him. Over breakfast, HMK suddenly turned to me with the comment, almost off-hand it seemed, that he could imagine having a school like Deerfield in Jordan. Then, taking the thought further, he asked, if there were indeed such a plan, would I be willing to consult along the way? Of course I agreed, not imagining where this narrative would soon be leading. If it all happened in just that way with King’s Academy being properly founded in Jordan with the beginning of the 2007-2008 academic year, as is well-known, there was still the question of how and in what form this new school would emerge from that chrysalis-

breakfast some six years before. How does one plan for a school that would be international, intercultural, interlinguistic and amphibian to boot? To give me some much-needed help—well, to take over the planning of the King’s Academy curriculum—I turned to my wife, Meera Viswanathan, at the time Associate Professor of Comparative Literature at Brown, soon to be Dean of the Faculty at King’s Academy, and since 2016, Head of School at The Ethel Walker School. Developing the Curriculum King’s Academy would have the unambiguous assignment of offering a curriculum following the HMK’s mandate that it would follow the American AP curriculum, and it would meet national expectations for future leaders (for example, preparing students for the Tawjihi high school leaving certification in Jordan) and readying

Our students are at home. In the World. Because at WMA, we give you tools you can use. Knowledge. Opportunities. Experiences. Everything you need to take your native talent, your smarts and courage and creativity and make your way. In the great, big, wonderful world.

Schedule a visit today. 30

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students to be competitive candidates for leading universities everywhere. That was never in doubt. Meera had sat through a number of early meetings, including those we had with the Minister of Education in Amman, and was prepared to synthesize our thinking so the result of this or that planning exercise might be exciting, even original innovation. When it came to English and Arabic, she put to the board an idea of teaching the two languages in a new configuration. She said that instructional objectives of the languages should be identical. While English would be the principal language of instruction, and while mastery in English, including writing, should be attained, along with a serviceable knowledge of English literature, it would be silly to relegate Arabic to the status of a foreign language in a country where it was almost everyone’s native tongue. Arabic should be taught exactly as English was to be taught. She proclaimed that King’s should have a flagship department housing both languages, side by side, and the department should carry the name of those noble humanistic pursuits: “Communication, Rhetoric, and the Literary Arts.” In a May 2006 email from Meera, who was still at Brown, and with me and other staff already in Jordan, she elaborated on what she had already put forward to the board. It was a document that we in Jordan kept ever at our sides, as it laid the groundwork for so much of what came to describe the original, thoughtful, creative way the school marched confidently to its opening a year later. I share some of her email detailing the approach below. Meera Viswanathan's Approach “We hope to generate in our students a sense of excitement and possibility about language, both oral and written, and its capacity to help us articulate feelings and ideas; analyze the world around us thereby engendering understanding; and finally allow us to put forth propositions whose validity we will establish by

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Seek Out Their Talents Strive for Greatness Serve the Common Good Thrive with Confidence Contact us today to explore admissions opportunities, schedule a family tour, or begin your application. www.sjcadets.org/admissions St. Joseph High School 2320 Huntington Turnpike, Trumbull, CT sjcadets.org | admissions@sjcadets.org

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the mustering of evidence in order to persuade others (i.e. rhetoric). Critical to this goal is the ability to inspire in our students a love of reading, which in turn means a love of thinking about ideas and their implications. If we can accomplish this, more than 75% of our task is completed, since most of what we learn, we learn on our own as autodidacts. “There are a number of radical things about our curriculum as devised thus far: the regional emphasis, the idea of a culmination (capstone) project, the study of Chinese at the secondary level to name a few. Similarly, the notion of CRLA, the distinction drawn between Ethics, Philosophy and Religion as a department and Theology as a department, and the idea that students have the opportunity to read their own literary heritage in multiple ways and simultaneously have the opportunity to see how others outside the Arab world would read this

body of work could have extraordinary significance. Nowhere else does this take place. Remember we are trying not merely to replicate what has been done, but to explore the possibilities of doing new things in new ways, provided these have as their ultimate goal, the enhancement of King’s students’ understanding and not merely novelty for novelty’s sake. “Here in America, of course, we cannot ‘internationalize’ in the same way, remaking all of our schools from the ground-up as we did at King’s Academy. But the last few decades have been a time for significantly broadening and enriching school curricula and approaches. Our students can have their horizons stretched to include coursework on China, Japan, East and Southeast Asia, Russia and Eastern Europe, Latin America, the Middle East, the countries in Africa along with much

of the Southern Hemisphere. Included would be the chance to learn languages not previously taught in high school— Chinese, Russian and Arabic among noteworthy examples. Technology has radically redrawn and erased formerly impervious boundaries—our students, who often possess intersectional global identities, cross national boundaries regularly through social media, have at their disposal concurrent translation services, are as likely to listen to K-Pop and eat fusion Cuban-Chinese food and watch Japanese anime as they are to do anything else.” My wife Meera sometimes comments that one of the lessons of international education is the fundamental one of learning what it means “to be a stranger in a strange land.” If all of us could better comprehend this, we would have a chance of finally being at home in the world around us.

AtKi ngSc hool , webel i e v et ha t t hes ma r t es tper s oni nt her oom i snott heonewi t ha l l t hea ns wer s , butt heonewi t ha l l t heques t i ons . Wek eepourey eont hec ur i ous ones–t heoneswhoa r en’ ta f r a i d t oa s kwhy , t ot r ys omet hi ngnew, t ogeti twr ongbef or et heygeti tr i ght . Webel i e v et hatwonder i ngmi nds gof ur t her !

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DIFFERENCE IS POWER EMPOWERING STUDENTS WITH LANGUAGE-BASED LEARNING DISABILITIES TO SUCCEED As an independent day school for children with dyslexia and language-based learning disabilities, we believe difference is power. Through highly trained educators and research-based strategies, we empower students in Grades 1-9 with the skills and confidence to return to mainstream schools. Committed to making a Windward education accessible for all, we award more than $7.5 million annually in tuition assistance.

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Extra Credit

Colorful Accessories that Make the Grade DRINK UP

Jessica Wells

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Colorful, two-toned Paper Bin is made from recycled paper. Design Within Reach, $25. dwr.com

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Desk lamp with two-prong plug-in and one USB port. Built-in wireless base has 5W charging for Qi-enabled devices and a USB-A charging port. Black/Nickel color blocking. Pottery Barn Teen, $169. pbteen.com

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High School Search 5 Key Questions to Guide the Decision Process by

Kevin J. Altieri

Director of Admissions / Fairfield College Preparatory School

hoosing a high school should be a fun, rewarding experience. After all, in Fairfield County, if you are able to choose a high school for yourself, you are both blessed and talented. We are in an area of the country with tremendous public and private options for high school. Unfortunately, the process can be stressful and the decision making difficult thanks to the strong options available. To help with the stress it is best to get started as early as you can. Don’t wait until the fall to reach out and explore options. Even if it is just a web search, you can get a clear picture of the different timelines that exist and become prepared to manage those deadlines! The decision part, that can often be the daunting aspect of this process. But it doesn’t have to be. You don’t have to be an educator to know what is best for you and your family. To help with that decision-making process, I’ve put together a list of five key questions or

areas on which to focus your search. These are intended to be a guide, not a map, so use them in a way that fits your family. Your answers will be different from your neighbor’s and that is how it should be since, after all, every family is different. No. 1 Academics As a parent of a twelve and ten-yearold, I am grateful to live in this part of our country, where schools tend to have strong academic profiles and prepare our children well for their future. But strong academics aren't the only thing to look for in a school. One of the best questions to ask is: Will the academics challenge me appropriately? It is especially important to ask this question as we emerge from the madness of the last two years with an acute awareness of the role that stress and anxiety play in our ability to succeed. Will the school teamwork with me to create the most appropriately leveled course of studies possible to ensure that I am both challenged and motivated?

One of the best ways to get to that answer is to ask: Does the educational philosophy of the school align with my learning style and needs? Some kids are goal-oriented and driven to achieve the absolute highest honors they can while others are more intrinsically motivated. Others are motivated by sports or the arts. The school you choose should match your philosophy of education if it is going to meet you where you are on that spectrum. When asking about this during the admissions process, be clear about who you are and what your philosophy is. If the school is a potential match, you’ll know it almost immediately as long as you are clear. Finally, every student needs to be pushed just to the edge of their comfort zone academically, socially, and in other areas so that they can walk themselves into the improvement zone. When the school is asking students to leave their comfort area, are the teachers available to help the students navigate these new waters outside of the classroom hours?

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Do they provide an environment in their classrooms that promotes the exploration of new and different ideas through respectful dialogue? These are questions that are important to ask whenever you visit a school. After all, the goal of your high school education is to grow, not just to achieve. No. 2 Extracurriculars In my experience most kids have a clear idea as to what extracurriculars they want to be involved in when they explore high schools. In those cases it is extremely important to ask: Does the school have the clubs, activities or sports that I want? If not, do they make it easy for me to start a new club, or do they offer the opportunity to participate in my activity outside of school while also actively participating in the life of the school? Extracurriculars are one of the best ways

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for a student to engage in the life of the school, which is one of the key indicators of a child’s likelihood of success in the school. Sometimes though, kids haven’t found a true interest by the time they are looking for high schools. For those kids, and even for the kids who “know” what they are looking for, they ought to be able to find other interests that blossom during their high school experience. So, it is also important to ask: Does the school have diverse extracurricular opportunities for me to explore and grow? No. 3 Culture School culture is a tough thing to gauge without visiting. After all, a culture really is defined by how we feel when we experience it. As you walk around a school take note of how you feel. Are you intimidated? Why? If you are

intimidated because you aren’t used to being around such big kids, okay. But, if you are intimidated because the overall environment doesn’t feel welcoming to you, that is a very different story. The only way to truly judge this is to engage as many people as possible on your visit. Try to talk to a student, teacher and administrator. Does your tour guide stop any of these people in passing throughout the tour to help you get to know them and, through them, the culture of the school? If you are unable to visit a school early in the process for any reason, you can ask questions of the admissions team to get to the following: Do the overall school values align with my values? Essentially, you are trying to determine if the mission of the school is in line with the mission of your family.

Guiding students and families as they navigate a challenging educational landscape

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2022 EDUCATION GUIDE 37

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Curiosity, Creativity & Community

No. 4 Transportation A simple concept that is too often overlooked until late in the process is ease of transportation to and from school. That doesn’t just mean can I get to and from school with relative ease? It also means that you ought to ask the following question early in the process: Do the transportation methods include options that support involvement in the life of the school? This isn’t a yes or no question for an admissions officer. Follow it up with how? And when? And even why? For a school to offer transportation to and from your town is great. For that school to be able to explain how transportation can work for your child, so they can participate in the extracurricular activities that keep them engaged in the life of the school is necessary. This isn’t to say that the school must provide that transportation. It just means they ought to be able to answer you thoroughly when you inquire about your family’s transportation needs. No. 5 Net Cost Regardless of whether you are a family that will pay full tuition or one that needs financial aid, this is one of the most important areas because, after exploring all these other areas, you should have a firm understanding of the school’s value proposition. By the time you are done exploring a school, you should be more focused on what you are willing to pay for the particular educational experience, rather than what the stated tuition is. Once there, the rest is simple. Because you now know what you are willing to pay for that educational experience, all you must determine is what the actual cost to your family is and if that is equal to or less than what you are willing to pay. The actual cost to a family is a simple calculation of tuition plus any fees minus any financial aid and scholarships. If that is more than you are willing to pay AND you still want

HELPFUL HINTS How to Approach Each School “Now more than ever, schools focus on soft skills to differentiate candidates. To set students apart, we encourage them to dig deep and tell their story beyond the classroom. This will illustrate who they are not just as learners but also as principled members of society.” —Verona Keating and Jacquie Quigley Founding Partners, Keating Quigley Educational Consultants

“During the interview process it is important to share personal stories to show your authentic self. You should be able to relate these stories to how you will contribute to the school, as it will demonstrate preparation for the interview—use examples and be specific.” —Krissy Naspo, M.A. Managing Partner, Boarding School and Non-Traditional Advising, The Bertram Group, LLC

“Direct communications with schools can demonstrate genuine interest while giving admissions interviewers, coaches and special interest faculty greater insights about an applicant. Specifically, a student’s communications with schools allows them to build relationships and illustrate their ownership of the search process.” —Alyson Henning Walker Family Education Advisor, Henning & Partners

to attend the school, call the admissions office and have that conversation. Not every school can easily discount the tuition further, but many have an appeals process for need-based financial aid that a simple call can initiate. Along the way you should also discover if the school’s staff makes a conversation about your family affording the school a comfortable one to have. This is going to be extremely important, because it will give you a glimpse into the value the school places on you. Being open and honest with you in a conversation about affordability is one of the best ways a school can show this. Not all schools are equal in terms of their access to resources that help make the school affordable for all. For example, independent schools that are members of the Connecticut Interscholastic Athletic Association (CIAC) are not able to provide athletic scholarships or to stray from typical need-based financial aid practices in order to achieve an outcome, while some other schools are. This would be a scenario where an open and honest conversation can help you and the school gain an understanding of each other to ensure that you avoid assumptions and misunderstandings that might prevent you from making the best decision. Conclusion In the end, what you are getting at by answering these questions is a value proposition: Is this educational experience worth what it will cost based on our resources and how close what the school provides matches the values of my family? As you explore these five questions you will be able to rule some schools out quickly, while others will move to the top of your list just as fast. As that happens, you’ll know you are doing this right. No matter what you experience though, remember to keep it light. This is a wonderful time in your child’s life!

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2022-2023 Education Guide

DIRECTORY

Connect 2022-2023 Adver tisers

AVON OLD FARMS SCHOOL Avon, CT avonoldfarms.com THE BERTRAM GROUP Westport, CT thebertramgroup.com BRUNSWICK SCHOOL Greenwich, CT brunswickschool.org THE ETHEL WALKER SCHOOL Simsbury, CT ethelwalker.org FAIRFIELD COLLEGE PREPARATORY SCHOOL Fairfield, CT fairfieldprep.org FAIRFIELD COUNTRY DAY SCHOOL Fairfield, CT fairfieldcountryday.org THE FORMAN SCHOOL Litchfield, CT formanschool.org FREDERICK GUNN SCHOOL Washinton, CT frederickgunn.org GREENS FARMS ACADEMY Greens Farms, CT gfacademy.org GREENWICH ACADEMY Greenwich, CT greenwichacademy.org GREENWICH COUNTRY DAY SCHOOL Greenwich, CT gcds.net IONA PREPARATORY SCHOOL New Rochelle, NY ionaprep.org KING SCHOOL Stamford, CT kingschoolct.org THE LONG RIDGE SCHOOL Stamford, CT longridgeschool.org THE MASTERS SCHOOL Dobbs Ferry, NY mastersny.org THE MEAD SCHOOL Stamford, CT meadschool.org MILLBROOK SCHOOL Millbrook, NY millbrook.org NEW CANAAN COUNTRY SCHOOL New Canaan, CT countryschool.net RUMSEY HALL Washington, CT rumseyhall.org RYE COUNTRY DAY SCHOOL Rye, NY ryecountryday.org SACRED HEART GREENWICH Greenwich, CT cshgreenwich.org SCHOOL OF THE HOLY CHILD Rye, NY holychildrye.org ST. LUKE’S SCHOOL New Canaan, CT stlukesct.org ST. JOSEPH HIGH SCHOOL Trumbull, CT sjcadets.org THE UNQUOWA SCHOOL Fairfield, CT unquowa.org VILLA MARIA SCHOOL Stamford, CT villamariaedu.org WESTMINSTER SCHOOL Simsbury, CT westminster-school.org WHITBY SCHOOL Greenwich, CT whitbyschool.org WILBRAHAM & MONSON ACADEMY Wilbraham, MA wma.us THE WINDWARD SCHOOL White Plains, NY and New York, NY thewindwardschool.org WINSTON PREPARATORY SCHOOL Norwalk, CT winstonprep.edu WOOSTER SCHOOL Danbury, CT woosterschool.org

2022 EDUCATION GUIDE

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Curiosity, Creativity & Community N O TA B L E Q U O T E S

Words of Wisdom from Educators “Schools that nurture a connected community— with intention— empower children to trust their intuition. When children know they are known, they trust their curiosity will reveal who they really are.” IAN CRAIG

Head of School, Rumsey Hall

“For independent schools, as with the world, curiosity and creativity must have limits imposed by the needs and expectations of our communities. Our good fortune is the freedom to not only explore our expectations but learn why those expectations exist and how to responsibly challenge them.” STUART WHITCOMB

“It never ceases to amaze me how inventive middle school children can be. Especially if you ask them to come up with ways to help other people. We can learn from their compassion, lack of inhibition, playfulness and willingness to question what's possible.” KIM GERARDI

St. Luke's designLab

Director of Wilbraham & Monson Academy Middle School

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PREPARED TO THRIVE

“When children learn early that they can solve problems—the whole world benefits.” -Kim Gerardi, St. Luke’s School designLab

designLab Challenge: Create sustainable neighborhoods using the designLab’s 3,500 sq. ft. fabrication space. Present work to peers, teachers, and guests from Habitat for Humanity and clean energy consulting firm MHR Development.

Find out how St. Luke’s prepares students to thrive now and into the future: www.stlukesct.org/thrive St. Luke’s is a secular (non-religious) day school for grades 5-12, serving 30 towns in Fairfield and Westchester counties. (203) 801- 4833 | admissions@stlukesct.org | www.stlukesct.org 377 North Wilton Road, New Canaan, CT 06840

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home Adding nature to the room brings in life and warmth.

above: The glass doors, tall windows and light color palette create an airy and soothing blend. this photo: Natural wood elements and industrial accents are an unbeatable combination.

LIGHTEN UP

LEIA T. WARD OF LTW DESIGN, BRINGS BALANCE, CALM AND LOTS OF NATURAL LIGHT TO A SOUTHPORT HOME MAKEOVER

by diane sembrot

•

phot o gr aphy by andrea carson

uring the best of times, creating a soothing space at home is a perfectly brilliant idea. During chaotic times, nationally and globally, all the better to have a feathered nest that can serve as a retreat to find a safe moment of ease. Without such times and places to renew, we would have nothing to give back to the world. That said, not all of us are gifted about creating the look. Sometimes it takes a professional’s eye to design a room, or even a whole house, that brings a vague vision or even just a wispy sentiment to life. Open the door, then, to Leia T. Ward, founder and principal designer of LTW

Design, an award-winning staging design firm specializing in exclusive luxury properties. Named one of the top ten luxury stagers in the country, her firm’s expertise provides her access to an expansive inventory of furniture, accessories and artwork. A leader in her field, Ward and her team have staged exclusive homes ranging up to $20 million, including the residence of Bruce Willis and Emma Hemming. With influences from her extensive travel, her design signature is an elevated blend of textures, capturing natural light and emphasizing clean lines in her projects. The LTW brand has a signature style of

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home

above: A bright gold faucet becomes the focal point of a flawlessly minimal design in the kitchen.

casual sophistication, creating calm and beautifully balanced spaces. In other words, less is more—and what goes in works with everything else. She calls on her decade-long experience in the television and magazine industries in New York City. LTW Design projects have been featured in national magazines, including House Beautiful and Town & Country. Let her enter your home like a fairy godmother to bring you the gift of serenity—uplifting colors, sane storage, harmonious patterns, balanced sheens, luxe layers, smart furniture layouts, and more. She handles the complex decisions to nurture the beauty of ease for the owners. We recently sat down with her to learn about her sack of skills and used a local project as an example. This was a design project in Southport. The waterfront brick Colonial home has a gallery hallway that connects the entire space, filled with the pitter-patter of the owners’ young children. There’s plenty to learn here and apply to your own home project.

Tell me how this project came about? This project came about because our clients saw our work from our Cove Project, and it spoke to them and the aesthetic they were envisioning for their own home. It was an old brick home that my clients—a fun, young couple—bought me in and said, "We want a modern home." The challenge was making this older Colonial home with a lot of small closed-off rooms into an open, sunny modern home. It was a complete overhaul. A year and a half later, the dream became a reality. What did you first think when you saw the house? When I first saw their home, I saw all the endless possibilities. It was a dark, older, traditional home with many small rooms and low ceilings, but all I saw was the finished product—a space that was open, airy and flooded with light.

above: The restrictions of the design allow one to appreciate the way the elements—shine, color, shape, material—support one another and create a cohesive look. below: A modern take on a kitchen bar

What are your first steps when taking on a big project? When taking on a project, the first step is having a concept meeting to ensure that the client’s vision and our vision are in sync. Once that is determined, our team then works backward. What I mean here is that instead of starting with the foundation of a space and building upon it until it is what was envisioned, I immediately see the finished space and work with my team from the end point. We sketch out what we want it to be and then source and layer in the details with our incredible vendors.

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home below: The fireplace serves as a cozy gathering space on cool evenings. right: Natural light floods into this room, anchored by a large sofa and black side table.

The seating area includes a large double-layer coffee table in soft white, with the seating using polaropposite shades of gray with a shared plush feel.

It takes a real team effort to make it happen! Pick a favorite room and tell me why it works. It’s so hard to pick a favorite room on this project because we love them all! To see each one transform was the best part. I love that we added a gallery hall to create the

above: Curved deep-seated chairs arranged around a round table is shape playing at its best. The black ceiling turns the expected on its head for a gorgeous touch of drama. below: The glass railing opens the space, and the metal accent adds an edgy urban element.

What are a few of your favorite moments of the finished project? My absolute favorite part of any project is the final reveal. Nothing beats the moment our clients walk into their finished home for the very first time. After much work, collaboration and effort by so many, nothing feels better

feeling of an open-floor plan, raised the ceiling height and flooded the first floor with the natural light it was missing. My goal was to make this older home feel open and light, so we bumped out the entire back wall of the first floor and created a wall of floor-toceiling windows.

than seeing the looks on our clients’ faces and how happy they are when they see in real life what we had imagined for so long. We love hearing, “Do I really get to live here?” And the tears— there have definitely been tears. It feels so rewarding to see our clients loving where they live.

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home What can others learn from the design decisions you made? Less is more. Always. Period. Where did you source a few of your favorite finds? We love supporting local vendors and artisans in America when we can. Many of our other vendors are overseas, and we have the opportunity to connect with them twice a year at market to see all the new items.

very involved and passionate about the design process. After a year and a half, we are beyond thrilled that they can now enjoy their family in their new home. We are grateful to have been a part of the process. left: The main bedroom has a cohesive mix of soft white furnishings that confidently intermix textures.

Any design pet peeves? If I never see a fireplace on an angled wall again, I’d be a happy camper! Actually, all angled walls for that matter. Anything else to add? Working on this project was a labor of love with incredible clients who were

above: The dark gray walls paired with the dark gray sofa provide a cooling effect to rest and recharge.

above: The main bedroom has a soft gray padded headboard with beach-washed gray side table with minimal embellishment.

left: The main bath has a deep rounded tub, full glass shower and gold accents as well as a romantic chandelier, though the windows provide ample natural light. above: Bold restraint with frameless mirrors, unpaneled windows and touchless faucets.

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Attorney Gary Cohen is a 1965 graduate of Yale University and 1968 graduate of the University of Virginia School of Law, where he served as articles editor of the Virginia Law Review and was elected to The Order of the Coif, a national honorary law school society. He has received numerous professional accolades, including being named by Town & Country magazine as one of the Best Family Lawyers in the United States. He is a past president of both the Connecticut Chapter of the Association of Trial Lawyers of America and Connecticut Chapter of the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers and a Founding Diplomat of the American College of Family Trial Lawyers, an invitation-only professional association that limits its fellowship to only 100 members in the entire United States. Attorney Sue Georgiades earned her Bachelor of Arts in psychology from the University of Connecticut in 2010 and received her J.D. from the University of Connecticut in 2013, where she concentrated her elective studies in matrimonial law and was an editor of the Connecticut Insurance Law Journal. Her internships with the supervising judge of the Nassau County, New York Family Court and Nassau County Coalition Against Domestic Violence further developed her credentials as a superior family lawyer.

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Mr. Cohen adds, “I have had the honor of being named to Super Lawyers for many years, but my pride in my nomination pales in comparison to my pride and pleasure in Sue Georgiades’ well-deserved recognition this year as a Rising Stars honoree among Connecticut’s family bar. Congratulations, Sue!”

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home

QUICK CHANGE

IN-PERSON OR VIRTUAL DESIGN TACKLES LIT T LE CHA L L E N GE S A N D F U L L MA KEO V ERS by diane sembrot phot o gr aphy by the finish

ome people are fine with change. The rest of us are brought through it with less zeal. Take, for example, moving from New York City to a Connecticut suburb. It’s different here. One way new neighbors have been dealing with the adjustment is by redecorating their new homes—outfitting them to appeal to the previous lifestyle while absorbing the new. Of course, the need for change can call to any of us, including those of us who were born here and begin thinking a change around the house would be a satisfying pick-me-up.

Take, for example, a Westport project completed by Southportbased The Finish (thefinish.co). This was a project for a local family who needed help in their living room and family room. They had pieces from a previous apartment that just didn’t work with their new historic home in Westport, so they turned to The Finish to create a family-friendly environment that also felt sophisticated. They already had a mix of boho, midcentury and eclectic pieces, but their style had evolved over time to become clean and modernist with classic elements, so the team

above: The designers helped the homeowner develop a cozy scheme, then brought it to life with fresh pieces, such as the velvet chairs.

brought it all together to create a project was to bring in an upscale cohesive look. They also painted restraint to the feel. “We started the dark ceiling in the dining room by picking out the fabrics to create for a bright, fresh change. a new softer scheme in the room “The client reached out to to base the full redesign around,” us after seeing our work on says Purzycki. That was achieved Instagram. She liked that we could with creative solutions. “We help her solve design dilemmas reupholstered vintage chairs in without having to redo her home,” a beautiful velvet that my client says Stephanie Purzycki, The won at an auction.” Velvet sounds Finish’s CEO and co-founder, wonderful, but does it work for along with Kaitlin Madden. The every home? She adds, “Our client business was founded in 2019. does have small children, so we As for those challenges in the had to be mindful of selecting Westport home, Purzycki says fabrics that were durable enough one in particular comes to mind. to handle messy little hands.” “The client had Each project is furniture pieces from unique, of course. a previous apartment That’s why The HOW that didn’t go with Finish pairs clients IT WORKS the aesthetic of the Clients can book with designers to thirty-minute virtual home or her evolving take on specific or one-hour in-person style. We had to challenges or whole appointments. The figure out creative homes. They’ll Finish matches them ways to incorporate do small projects, with designers best old and new to make suited to the projects. like accessorizing During the consulthe space cohesive furniture or tation, clients can ask and feel intentional. picking window for advice or inspiAlso, long lead treatments, as well ration or review design times were a huge as full overhauls, pain points. For big challenge! She had to projects, they can go mood boards to over details and get a wait a year for a new completed projects. proposal with a wish sofa.” But the projects list of items and prices. One of the other are custom— “musts” for the clients work with

The Finish offers design advice for a single room or whole house.

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home The team picked durable fabrics to handle the demands of a young family.

left: Finishing touches include designing shelving arrangements. below The project included a mix of new and existing pieces.

the designer, in person or over Zoom. One of the design lessons learned can be applied to nearly any project. “You don’t always need to start with a blank slate to create the look you love,” says Purzycki. “Buy quality furniture that will last, and if your style changes, consider reupholstering the piece instead of buying a new one.” Another money-saving change was creative. “She was also able to spray paint a vintage ceiling fixture instead of purchasing a new, and more expensive, option that would likely also encounter delivery delays.”

The new living room works for family time as well as for entertaining friends.

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go left: The gorgeous entry to The Peninsula Beverly Hills center, top: The welcoming front desk to the spa center, bottom: The Living Room at The Peninsula Beverly Hills is lush, luxurious and regal—a wonderful place to sit and talk with a friend. right: Room service is next-level at the hotel.

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TRADITIONAL LUXURY IN THE CITY OF ANGELS

ocated in the heart of Beverly Hills, a short walk from Los Angeles’ iconic Rodeo Drive, The Peninsula Beverly Hills offers lavish accommodations, mouthwatering cuisine and a newly designed world-class spa. Cushioned by lush, tropical gardens, the property feels like a private home, with its welcoming staff and unparalleled service. Upon arrival, I was escorted to my room, where a plate of artfully displayed handmade macarons and a pillowcase monogrammed with my initials awaited me. (Yes, you get to take the pillowcase home!) If you’re in search of a truly special destination for your next vacation out west, look no further. And don’t be surprised if you spot a few celebrities in the lobby.

STAY Featuring 195 luxurious guest rooms, including thirty-eight suites and seventeen private villas, the accommodations are appointed with expertly curated, custom-made furnishings that reflect the hotel’s subdued opulence. I stayed in one of the 585-square-foot Villa Studios, which feature large sleeping and sitting areas, a modern fireplace, and a private entrance, allowing guests complete privacy. The serene color palette and rich wood furnishings completed the overall sumptuous décor. If you’re interested in a larger space, book one of the 825-square-foot Peninsula Villa Suites, which are set in free-standing villas, boast spacious garden-view balconies and are bathed in plenty of natural light. Guests can also hang their hats in one of the four signature one-bedroom suites, each with its own color palette, ranging from tranquil rose and blue hues to soothing green and white. These suites combine classic elegance and state-of-the-art technology and also include contemporary kitchens with Viking and Sub-Zero appliances. Of course the pièce de résistance is the 2,336-square-foot Peninsula Villa, which is the property’s largest accommodation. Nestled

above: Be enveloped in a masterful mix of white, cream and blue in the main bedroom of the Grand Deluxe Suite (also called The Blue Suite) below: The Peninsula Suite (or Green Suite) Living Room, in a harmonious, and even royal, palette of cream, green and gold.

PHOTOGRAPHY: LIEBERT PORTRAIT BY DREAMSCAPE STUDIO PHOTOGRAPHY; HOTEL, COURTESY THE PENINSULA BEVERLY HILLS

BY EMILY LIEBERT

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above: When you're ready for some pampering and wellness treatments, book time in the spa; here, one of the treatment rooms. below: Cool off by the hotel's pool.

RELAX & REJUVENATE The newly renovated spa is home to seven treatment rooms, a nail suite and a serenity lounge ideal for recharging. I recommend the 24K Gold Age-Defying Facial, an invigorating treatment that will heal and enrich your skin. It also boosts collagen production and cell renewal, while reducing fine lines and wrinkles, through the restorative powers of 24K gold leaf. It will leave you fresh faced and glowing from the inside out. If you have trouble sleeping or feel low on energy, try the Recovering Traveler, designed to bring balance to the body and relieve jet lag. The experience includes marma work, lymphatics and a bronze

kasa bowl technique to draw out excess heat. Additionally, it helps eliminate fluid retention and strengthens the immune system. Once you’ve been appropriately pampered, rent one of the twelve private cabanas by the sixty-foot outdoor rooftop pool and hot tub and unwind on a deluxe chaise lounge with a signature cocktail or fruit smoothie. Each cabana is equipped with cordless telephones, flat-screen TV, Bluetooth speakers, heaters, fans and a safe. For a one-stop shop, book the spa cabana and enjoy a manicure, pedicure or massage while your family and friends go for a swim. If exercise is your preferred method of relaxation, head to the Fitness Centre, which is outfitted with state-of-the-art Life Fitness equipment, including treadmills, cycles and elliptical trainers, and strength and weight training apparatus by HOIST. Post-workout delight in the Himalayan Salt Saunas. WINE & DINE With culinary offerings at The Peninsula are a feast for the foodie soul. Start off with a cocktail at The Club Bar with its dark wood, California birch panels and deep leather chairs encircling the fireplace. Options include rare single-malt whiskies, scotches, tequilas, and cognacs, as well as a broad assortment of wines. I loved the “La Drama,” made with Suntory Haku vodka, grapefruit, crème de mûre, lime zest and a spicy note of jalapeño. The Roof Garden is a destination for both locals and hotel guests, serving inspired Californian cuisine with fresh herbs and vegetables grown in the rooftop garden. Ffavorites are the Octopus Tostada with avocado mousse and cucumber radish and the Skirt Steak with crispy potatoes, pork chorizo and tomatillo.

Dine at The Belvedere for Parisian-style brasserie fare with a modern twist on classics such as Saffron Risotto Croquette and Rotisserie Chicken Crepe. My top choices were the Charred Caesar with Brussels sprouts, kale, garlic croutons and white anchovy and the Seared Diver Scallops with chanterelles, zucchini flower and lobster jus. Celebrate with a complimentary Laurent Perrier champagne toast every evening at 8 p.m. Last, but definitely not least, afternoon tea in The Living Room is a must. In addition to the extensive menu of green and exotic flavored teas and the free-flowing bubbly, the towers of sweet and savory bites are accompanied by a classical harpist. I’ll admit it was hard to select only a few items, but I relished the pastrami with horseradish, pickles and mustard caviar along with the curried chicken with almonds and raisins. If dim sum is your thing (it’s definitely mine!), go for the Shanghai pork dumplings and the Peking duck pot stickers. For dessert, the strawberry elderflower cake and the Purple Haze and peach crostini are winners. SIGNATURE TOUCHES The Peninsula stands out for its enduring attention to detail and unique special events. Along these lines, every Thursday at 5 p.m. guests can partake in a cocktail-making lesson with a professional mixologist (tastings included!). Another fabulous feature, if you book one of the hotel’s elegant suites, is the complimentary use of a luxury BMW for the length of your stay. This will allow you to drive up the Pacific Coast Highway to Malibu or continue on past Santa Barbara to Santa Ynez wine country. If you’re on a tight time schedule, you’ll appreciate the hotel’s ‘Peninsula Time’ offering —a distinctive experience which provides guests the flexibility to check in and out at any hour at no extra cost (black-out dates and booking channels do apply). When traveling with children in tow, upgrade your reservation to include Camp Peninsula, a program that embodies the spirit of camping right at the hotel. It kicks off with a special welcome from the property’s lifesized mascot, Peter Bear, and continues with a camp counselor whisking the kids away to their guestroom where an enchanting teepee awaits…and then engaging them in a hotel-wide scavenger hunt with a decadent treat of flameless s’mores to top it off.

PHOTOGRAPHY: COURTESY THE PENINSULA BEVERLY HILLS

in a landscaped garden patio, this spectacular two-story bungalow is accented with blue-andwhite Chinese porcelain pieces and opens onto a private patio with a hot tub and gate to the street.

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BOOK NO FURTHER SEARCHING FOR SUMMER’S HOTTEST READS? YOU’VE COME TO THE RIGHT PLACE. THESE EIGHT PAGE-TURNERS ARE PERFECT FOR A DAY AT THE BEACH OR A LOUNGE BY THE POOL.

FOUR WAYS TO WEAR A DRESS BY GILLIAN LIBBY

PLEASE JOIN US BY CATHERINE MCKENZIE

WEST SIDE LOVE STORY BY PRISCILLA OLIVERAS

THE BEACH TRAP BY ALI BRADY

Westport native Gillian Libby delivers a sparkling debut with this buoyant novel about protagonist Millie Ward, who’s been fired from her job and decides to visit her best friend Quincy in California. While she’s there, she wouldn’t mind a romantic interlude with Quincy's brother, Pete. As her friends from home help her pack for the trip, the little black dress they shared in college resurfaces and reminds them of the luck it brought them back then. The question is, will the dress works its magic again and help Millie find the happiness she truly deserves?

Nicole Mueller’s life is a mess. Her success as a lawyer is in jeopardy and she’s about to lose her apartment. Enter Panthera Leo, a private networking group for professional women. In an attempt to resuscitate her career—despite her husband Dan’s concern that it sounds like a cult—Nicole joins their retreat in Colorado where she’s grouped with a CEO, an actress, a finance whiz and a congresswoman. When Nicole returns home, things quickly turn around thanks to her new network, until she’s called on by the congresswoman and coerced into covering up a crime.

In this star-crossed love story about two feuding Texas familias, Mariana was raised in the nurturing household of Casa Capuleta. As a means of helping her adoptive parents resolve their financial issues, she and her younger sisters must win the Battle of the Mariachi Bands against Hugo Montero, their father’s biggest rival. There’s just one thing standing in the way…Mariana’s illicit attraction to Angelo Montero, who also has feelings for her. Will their relationship survive the challenges inherent in their situation? And will they be able to bring peace to their long-disputing familias?

Fifteen years ago, at the age of twelve, Kat Steiner and Blake O’Neill became best friends at Camp Chickawah. Then they found out that they were actually half-sisters and broke all ties with each other. When their father dies suddenly and leaves them both a beach house in Florida, the two women are not happy about it. But they formulate a plan—to refurbish the decrepit home so that Kat can buy Blake out. Of course their visions for renovation are not the same. Add in their shared pasts and a couple of summer romances and they may become the sisters they never were after all.

MORE BOOK RECOMMENDATIONS on the next page

CONTRIBUTED

by emily liebert

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•

Our Mission The mission of Breast Cancer Alliance is to improve survival rates and quality of life for those impacted by breast cancer through better prevention, early detection, treatment and cure. To promote these goals, we invest in innovative research, breast surgery fellowships, regional education, dignified support and screening for the underserved. To learn more visit breastcanceralliance.org Breast Cancer Alliance, 48 Maple Avenue, Greenwich, CT 06830 info@breastcanceralliance.org Yonni Wattenmaker, Executive Director

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BOOK NO FURTHER

THE LADY DI LOOK BOOK BY ELOISE MORAN

THE CHARMED LIST BY JULIE ABE

MY WIFE IS MISSING BY D. J. PALMER

What happens when Freya Scott, a recently rejected bride, has to attend seven weddings in one summer? Her friends create a major distraction by devising a series of crazy challenges for her to fulfill at each event. For example, getting stuck in an old church bathroom until she’s rescued by the vicar and, also, making out with a barman at a French château. As the “fun” ensues, Freya begins to realize that saying “I do” isn’t the be all and end all, that there may still be a love story in her future.

What was Diana trying to tell us through her clothes? This visual psychobiography of icon Lady Di poses and answers this question through its stunning images and new interviews with some of the people who dressed Diana. From her pink gingham pants and pastel-yellow overalls to her sexy Versace dresses, power suits and athleisure, British fashion journalist Eloise Moran has studied thousands of pictures of the princess and brings to light things no one has noticed before. In addition to being a feast for the eyes, this book is a comprehensive study in the way the world’s most adored royal communicated through fashion.

High school student Ellie Kobata leads a very private life. So private, in fact, that she can’t even tell her best friend what she’s hiding… that she’s part of a secret magical community. The only person who would really understand is Jack Yasuda, a childhood friend who inexplicably no longer associates with her. By senior year, Ellie is tired of being a wallflower and ready to take some risks—for better or for worse. So she makes a list of thirteen things what will help her come out of her shell. When number four—revenge on Jack—goes seriously awry, Ellie ends up stuck in a car with him driving to a magical convention and she’s convinced she’ll never complete her list. Only she may be very wrong, since number thirteen is “fall in love.”

Michael Hart’s wife, Natalie, and their two young kids have disappeared from their New York City hotel room while on a family vacation, and he suspects they’ve been kidnapped. Unfortunately, Michael is wrong. Natalie left quite willingly without explanation and both he and the police want to know why. Of course he can’t tell them that a shocking revelation about him might have encouraged her quick escape. Natalie, for her part, knows that’s exactly why she left and she has no intention of returning. There’s just one issue— her chronic insomnia has caused disabling delusions. Now, with her children’s lives on the line, Natalie is desperate to stay one step ahead of Michael, as she begins to recognize that she’s the only person who can save all of them. CONTRIBUTED

THE WEDDING SEASON BY KATY BIRCHALL

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tickets on SALE Don’t miss the 15th anniversary of New York City’s premiere wine and food festival where the country’s most celebrated chefs, food personalities and winemakers unite to support New Yorkers living with severe illness.

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6/15/22 11:30 AM

It’s Time to Celebrate the Good Guys! Visit ilovefc.com to nominate those individuals and organizations who have gone beyond the ordinary to the extraordinary in their support of those in need. Honorees will be featured in the November issue and celebrated at a special awards ceremony.

PLEASE VOTE TODAY! Go to ilovefc.com/lightafire VOTING DEADLINE: JULY 9

Nominations being accepted in the following categories: Most Involved in the Arts Most Dedicated Committee Member Outstanding Philanthropist Outstanding Teen Volunteer Best Friend to Children Best Health Advocate Lifetime Achievement Best Friend to Seniors Most Involved Couple Corporate Good Neighbor

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THE ART OF NATURE / Earthplace Hosts Benefit Art Show

PHOTOGRAPHY BY MOFFLY MEDIA’S BIG PICTURE / KRISTIN BURKE HYNES

Only Natural

F 7

or the first time in seventeen years, Earthplace— the Westport institution founded in 1958 to combine science, conservation and education— held a benefit art show. Westport photographer Nancy Breakstone proposed and organized the show. She recruited nine other local artists to show their works, all inspired by nature. Buyers received a charitable tax deduction for 35 percent of their purchase price as a donation to the nonprofit Earthplace.

1 Detail of In Nantucket Serengeti by Nancy Breakstone Photography 2 Show organizer Nancy Breakstone 3 Sculptor Lucy Krupenye, Eva Hendricks, MaryEllen Hendricks, Katherine Ross, Nancy Lewis 4 Earthplace executives Sophie Pollmann and Tony McDowell flank Breakstone 5 Aleema Futterman, Karen Greenblatt, Jill McGorarty, Melissa Banks 6 Valerie McElaney, Maya Santangelo, photographer Tom Kretsch 7 Photographer Jay Wilson 8 Painter Jennifer Williams JULY/AUGUST 2022 WESTPORT

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this summeR at the playhouse

tickets FOR ALL SHOWS on sale now! WESTPORTPLAYHOUSE.ORG  203 227 4177

All dates, titles, and artists are subject to change.

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VICTORIA BROWN & JULIAN ATWAY 1

PHOTOGRAPHS BY BROOKE ALLISON

1 The bride with her parents, Phil and Lynn Brown 2 The perfect reception at a private home 3 Godson Caleb Allen helps the bridesmaids 4 Tory takes a moment before heading down the aisle 5 John Laham, Julian’s cousin 6 Tory and Julian display teamwork and strength in a German tradition 7 Bride and bridesmaids 8 Julian with the groomsmen

ove always finds a way. Take Victoria (Tory) Brown and Julian Atway. They both went to Staples High School. They were on the ski team. They then attended Ohio University. But it wasn’t until a few years after graduation that they finally went on their first date in downtown Westport. It was perfect. Five years later, Julian proposed during a trip to Newport. Tory said yes. The couple married in a ceremony that still makes the bride smile. “Julian forgot our wedding rings,” she says. “When it was time to exchange rings, he whispered that to me. I thought he was joking because my dad also forgot the rings at my parents’ wedding!” With that, an unlikely tradition was born—borrowing rings at the altar. Then, during the ceremony the sun was so intense on Tory that Julian offered to swap his place in the shade. “I stood with the groomsmen, and he stood with my bridesmaids,” she says. “I loved it!” The day featured one more twist. Julian’s mom is from Germany, so the couple adopted the tradition of cutting through a log. “It’s intended to show strength and teamwork,” Tory says. “I was dreading it, but our guests loved it.” She was thrilled that the festivities took place at a friend’s home in the town filled with memories of her childhood summers. Tory graduated from Staples High School and Ohio University. With a degree in marketing, she founded her own business, The Two Oh Three. Her parents are Lynn and Phil Brown of Fairfield. Julian graduated from Staples and Ohio University and works as a data scientist at Charter Communication. He earned his degree in business. His parents are Ulla and Nabil Atweh, of Westport. The couple honeymooned in Nantucket and now reside in Fairfield. »

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JESS CAMPBELL & WILLIAM RODD

1 Just married! 2 Will flanked by the groomsmen: Brendan Johannen, Diego Nunez, Benji Nwachukwu, Samuel Rodd, Robert Lamberti and Yan Levinski 3 The bride with her bridesmaids: Paige Yurick, Christina Sexauer, Julia Penkal, Jennifer Jahn, Sara Monahan-Levinski and Helena Darling, each wearing a favorite shade of pink 4 The bride and her father, Bruce Campbell 5 The wedding party celebrates 6 Will and Jess with their parents and Samuel (l.) and Benji (r.) 7 Guests enjoy the beautiful reception at Fairfield County Hunt Club, where the bride grew up riding.

PHOTOGRAPHS BY AYENIA NOUR

ess Campbell and William (Will) Rodd were a match made in heaven—and her friend and his cousin knew so right away. After years of trying to get them together, they finally met at the wedding of Will’s cousin in Westport, and, as suspected, they hit it off instantly. They started dating right away. Knowing an engagement was on the horizon, Will never missed an opportunity to kneel in front of Jess and tie his shoes anti-climactically. Then one rainy Saturday afternoon, Will wasn’t joking. He got down on one knee at Compo Beach and asked Jess to marry him. She said yes! Their wedding was held at Assumption Church on a sunny day, and the bridesmaids were adorned in their favorite shade of pink. The reception was held at Fairfield County Hunt Club where Jess had spent countless hours riding horses. Guests dined outdoors on the veranda and then danced the night away, starting with the uplifting song “September” by Earth, Wind & Fire. The bride and groom sat under the moon at the same location they had met years earlier, now surrounded by their friends and family celebrating their own wedding. Jess is the daughter of Elaine Schanzenbach-Campbell and Bruce Campbell of Westport. She graduated from Staples High School in Westport, Villanova University and later Dartmouth Business School. She is an operations manager at Burrows in New York City. Will is the son of Beth and Dr. Carey Rodd of Bradford, New Hampshire. He graduated from St. Paul’s School in Concord, New Hampshire, Tufts University and Kellogg School of Management. He is director/chief of staff at 193 in New York City. Will and Jess honeymooned in Costa Rica before returning to their new home in Old Greenwich. »

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HEATHER GALANO & GREGORY BENNETT

PHOTOGRAPHY BY PAUL REYNOLDS

he bride walking down the aisle with her father is a heartfelt moment at the start of a wedding. But for Heather Galano, the moment was bittersweet. While she was moment’s away from exchanging vows, her father, Anthony, was not present. He had passed away. Sadly, her fiancé, Greg Bennett, had also lost his father, Walt. When the Westport couple was planning their wedding, they discovered a way to include their dads. A glass-blowing artist from Celebration Ashes infused Heather’s father’s ashes into a bouquet holder, so that he could be by her side in spirit. The ceremony was officiated by JP Greg Trulson at the Mountain Top Inn at the Ceremony Knoll in Chittenden, Vermont. “We played the song ‘Memories’ and made a toast to our fathers,” Heather says. She also made separate vows to her two stepchildren. The reception was full of joy. “We danced our first dance to ‘Bennie and the Jets,’ because our hashtag was #BennieAndTheVet. Greg’s last name is Bennett, and I am a vet.” Also, the guests signed custom vintage skis in lieu of a guestbook, and, sweetly, a vase with their dads’ ashes and two white roses were placed at the memory table. The bride is a veterinary neurologist at VCA Shoreline Referral and Emergency Center. She earned her degree in biology from Davidson College and her VMD from the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine. Her mother, Gabriella, lives in Westport. Gregory Bennett is lawyer at Traub Lieberman Straus & Shrewsbery. A Westporter, he attended Cushing Academy before earning a degree in professional and technical writing from University of Hartford and his JD from Quinnipiac University. His mother, Jane, lives in Fairfield. W

1 Officially married! 2 The rustic-chic reception area at Mountain Top Inn in Vermont 3 Heather, Gregory and Bodie 4 The couple found a way on their wedding day to honor their deceased fathers. 5 The bride’s custom bouquet holder 6 The fancy four-tier wedding cake 7 The wedding rings 8 The bride’s sixteen-year-old yellow Labrador dog, Bodie, was wheeled in his very own custom wagon. 9 The happy newlyweds JULY/AUGUST 2022 WESTPORT

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M O F F LY M E D I A

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GOLD COAST C O N N E C T I C U T • 2022

170+ Categories!

We asked our readers to vote for their favorite places throughout Fairfield County. The more than 170 categories are grouped in three sections: FOOD + DRINK (such as, new restaurant and local pub), SHOP + STYLE (such as swimwear and shoes), and SERVICES + TO-DO’S (such as car washes and pet care). These are the PLACES THAT MAKE LIVING HERE BETTER THAN ANYWHERE ELSE. Of course, we think our readers are the best!

To check out ALL OF OUR WINNERS digitally, scan here

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BEST OF the BEST FOOD

SHOP

SERVICES

DRINK

STYLE

TO-DO’S

PG. 60

PG. 70

PG. 78

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GOLD COAST C O N N E C T I C U T • 2022

READERS’ PICKS

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2022 w inners of

Next time you want to catch up with what’s going on in your friends’ lives, all the details, SPEND TIME TOGETHER WHILE ENJOYING GOOD FOOD AND DRINKS. Here’s the list of local restaurants, cafés, bars, grab-and-go places, food and drink markets and more that our readers picked as their favorites. No matter where you are in Fairfield County, there’s a place nearby ready to serve.

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READERS’ PICKS

GOLD COAST C O N N E C T I C U T • 2022

THE WINNERS LIST If it’s seafood, then it’s on the menu at The Restaurant at Rowayton Seafood.

RESTAURANTS Best Service Match 98 Washington St., Norwalk, 203-852-1088; matchsono.com Business Lunch + Outdoor Seating Artisan Southport 275 Old Post Rd., Southport, 203-307-4222; artisansouthport.com Creative Menu Taco Daddy 121 Towne St., Stamford, 203-541-5770; tacodaddystamford.com Hotel Restaurant + Special Occasion/Date Night Tavern at GrayBarns 194 Perry Ave., Norwalk, 203-580-1900; tavernatgraybarns.com New Restaurant The Wheel 4 Star Point, Stamford, 475-270-1300; thevillagewheel.com

MORGAN IONE PHOTOGRAPHY

Outdoor Dining + Seafood The Restaurant at Rowayton Seafood 89 Rowayton Ave., Rowayton, 203-866-4488; rowaytonseafood.com

THE RESTAURANT AT ROWAYTON SEAFOOD // Winner of BEST Outdoor Dining and BEST Seafood

Pickup/Delivery Option Little Pub 531 East Putnam Ave., Cos Cob, 203-717-1147 | 26 Danbury Rd., Wilton, 203-762-1122 | 2133 Black Rock Tpk., Fairfield, 203-612-4567; see all locations at littlepub.com

here can you go that’s both upscale and perfectly comfortable? You found it. This family-owned restaurant, located right along the Five Mile River, is a hit. The views are spectacular, assuming you like sailboats and sunsets on a watery horizon—and the seafood is delicious, again assuming that super-fresh lobster, fish, shrimp and all things from the sea have you reaching for the lemon wedges. It’s the kind of place that knows you expect the best but also want to feel like you’re at home. JULY/AUGUST 2022 WESTPORT

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GOLD COAST C O N N E C T I C U T • 2022

READERS’ PICKS

WINNING ADVICE

When only a steak will do, it’s time to head to Washington Prime.

SIGNATURE STEAK Grab a knife, because we’re talking Beef Wellington (prime filet mignon, wrapped in puff pastry, foie gras and truffle mushroom duxelles, asparagus, mashed potatoes, Bordeaux bordelaise).

left: Spicy miso ramen with tamago (egg), chasu (pork belly) and mushrooms with homemade chili oil below: Belly up to the noodle bar

MECHA NOODLE BAR // Winner of BEST Asian Fusion + Bowls above: A perfectly cooked rib eye— who’s hungry now?

ome days (quite often, actually) all you want is the comfort of a freshly made bowl of pho. With locations in Stamford, Norwalk and Fairfield, you don’t have to drive far to get to Mecha Noodle Bar, our readers’ pick for best Asian fusion and best bowls. We admit that we thought best bowl would be about açaí, but our readers reminded us that pho and ramen are hard to beat. Sure, there’s a bit of slurping, but that just makes it all the better. Vegetarians, try the Kinoko, with mushrooms galore. It’ll hit the spot.

ENHANCEMENTS Want to level up your rib eye or New York strip? Consider “With Surf” (Maine lobster tail with tarragon butter), “Oscar Style” (lump crab meat, béarnaise sauce) or “Blue” (topped with melted blue cheese).

ON THE SIDE Steak may be in the spotlight, but it can share the stage with delicious extras. Consider, for example, fingerling potatoes with lemon juice and garlic butter, or cauliflower gratin with fennel, garlic, three cheeses and Aleppo chili flakes.

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M O F F LY M E D I A

READERS’ PICKS Private Dining/Intimate Venue Oak and Almond 544 Main Ave., Norwalk, 203-846-4600; oakandalmond.com Steak Washington Prime 141 Washington St., Norwalk, 203-857-1314 washingtonprimect.com

PHOTOGRAPHY: BEER BY MICHAEL GIACALONE: CAFE SILVIUM, CONTRIBUTED: OPPOSITE PAGE; WASHINGTON PRIME AND MECHA NOODLE BAR, CONTRIBUTED

Sushi Nordic Fish 1499 Post Rd., Fairfield, 203-292-8400; nordicfishfairfield.com Tapas Barcelona Wine Bar 222 Summer St., Stamford, 203-348-4800 | 515 West Ave., Norwalk, 203-854-5600 | 4180 Black Rock Tpk., Fairfield, 203-255-0800; see all locations at barcelonawinebar.com

French Bruxelles Brasserie 63-71 N. Main St., Norwalk, 203-857-1494; bruxellessono.com

REGIONAL SPECIALTIES American Little Pub 531 East Putnam Ave., Cos Cob, 203-717-1147 | 26 Danbury Rd., Wilton, 203-762-1122 | 2133 Black Rock Tpk., Fairfield, 203-612-4567; see all locations at littlepub.com

Greek + Mediterranean Layla’s Falafel 936 High Ridge Rd., Stamford, 203-461-8004 | 1535 Post Rd. E., Westport, 203-955-1583 | 2088 Black Rock Tpk., Fairfield, 203-384-0100; laylasfalafel.com

Asian Fusion Mecha Noodle Bar 151 Bedford St., Stamford, 203-801-7577 | 116 Washington St., Norwalk, 203-295-8718 | 1215 Post Rd., Fairfield, 203-292-8222; see all locations at mechanoodlebar.com

GOLD COAST C O N N E C T I C U T • 2022

WINNING ADVICE

Delicious dishes at Café Silvium when you want something with your pasta.

Indian Coromandel Cuisine of India 25 Old Kings Hwy. N., Darien, 203-662-1213; coromandeldarienct.com Italian Café Silvium 371 Shippan Ave., Stamford, 203-324-1651; cafesilviumct.com

Chinese Village Gourmet 22 Chestnut Hill Rd., Norwalk, 203-849-8788; villagegourmetnorwalk.com

above: The feel-like-family environment at Café Silvium

CHICKEN Pollo con Carciofi e Funghi is a chicken breast sautéed with artichokes and mushrooms in a white wine sauce. Add a glass of wine and all is beautiful in the world.

LITTLE PUB// Winner of BEST American, Salads, Pickup/Delivery Option and Beer Selection + Pub

SEAFOOD

he Little Pub that could! It won a slew of great all-American categories. From salads (like the cilantro-lime chicken salad with greens, corn, black beans, pico, olives, avocado, cheddar, tortilla strips and chipotle ranch), pulled pork mac-n-cheese, and insane burgers (maybe the “Three Hands,” with cheddar, fried onions, mac-n-cheese and red-hot buffalo sauce). Of course, you’ll want something refreshing to wash it all down. Luckily, this winning pub also has all your favorite beers. If you’re in the mood for a surprise, try the “Mystery Tap.” Really, you just can’t lose here— which is why Little Pub won “Best Of ” big time.

Try the roasted Mediterranean bass with lemon and extra virgin olive oil or maybe the red snapper, which is sautéed with onions, olives and capers in a marinara sauce.

VEAL We had to pick a veal dish. Consider the La Milanese, a breaded pan-fried veal cutlet topped with arugula and tomato salad. It will remind you that doing a simple dish perfectly is wildly underappreciated.

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HINOKI GREENWICH // Winner of BEST Japanese

e know that tapas are a bit trendy, and we’re not above jumping on board with the rest of the crowd. Hinoki specializes in tapas-style Asian cuisine. It’s upscale, beautiful and delicious. Take the rock shrimp tempura, the duck dumplings or the crispy bronzino. Add in grilled asparagus or even a tuna/salmon pizza—fried tortilla topped with avocado, tobiko, eel sauce and spicy mayo—and it’s like global travel in a bite. This Izakaya-style restaurant is so filled with delights, that of course you would want to invite your closest friends to share it with you. Let’s order the table a round of sake (Hinoki has plenty of lip-smacking options).

PHOTOGRAPHY: CONTRIBUTED

above: Nori Tacos, yellowtail with avocado yuzu sauce; uni with caviar; spicy crunch tuna below: Miso black cod and co-owners K. Dong and Chef Steven Chen

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READERS’ PICKS Japanese Hinoki 363 Greenwich Ave., Greenwich, 203-900-0011; hinokigreenwich.com

Hamburgers Match Burger Lobster 580 Riverside Ave., Westport, 203-557-8800; matchburgerlobster.com

Mexican bartaco 222 Summer St., Stamford, 203-323-8226 | 20 Wilton Rd., Westport, 203-222-8226; see all locations at bartaco.com

Hot Dogs Super Duper Weenie 306 Black Rock Tpk., Fairfield, 203-334-3647; superduperweenie.com

Spanish Barcelona Wine Bar 222 Summer St., Stamford, 203-348-4800 | 515 West Ave., Norwalk, 203-854-5600 | 4180 Black Rock Tpk., Fairfield, 203-255-0800; see all locations at barcelonawinebar.com Thai Little Thai Kitchen 21 St. Roch Ave., Greenwich, 203-622-2972 | 4 West Ave., Darien, 203-662-0038; littlethaikitchen.com

CASUAL FOOD

PHOTOGRAPHY: BURGER BY JEFF KAUFMAN; SIGN BY THOMAS MCGOVERN

Bagels Liz Sue 63 High Ridge Rd., Stamford, 203-323-4611 | 120 New Canaan Ave., Norwalk, 203-849-1322; lizsuebagelsinc.com Bowls Mecha Noodle Bar 151 Bedford St., Stamford, 203-801-7577 | 116 Washington St., Norwalk, 203-295-8718 | 1215 Post Rd., Fairfield, 203-292-8222; see all locations at mechanoodlebar.com Burritos Valencia Luncheria 164 Main St., Norwalk, 203-846-8009; valencialuncheria.com Frozen Yogurt 16 Handles 219 Bedford St., Stamford, 203-817-0707 | 1300 Post Rd., Fairfield, 203-292-9841; see all locations at 16handles.com

Ice Cream Gofer Ice Cream 522 East Putnam Ave., Greenwich, 203-661-9080 | 551 East Putnam Ave., Cos Cob, 203-990-0094 | 869 High Ridge Rd., Stamford, 203-504-3105 | 103 Main St., New Canaan, 203-594-1342 | 1020 Boston Post Rd., Darien, 203-2022661 | 379 Danbury Rd., Wilton, 203-210-5546; see all locations at gofericecream.com

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above: A bit of beef education below: The best burger in Fairfield County

MATCH BURGER LOBSTER // Winner of BEST Hamburgers

hat’s better: a great burger or fresh lobster? Correct, it’s both! And that’s why Match Burger Lobster is unmatched for top choice this year. It pretends to be a humble roadside shack, but it’s powered by some serious chef skills. If you’re a first-timer, bite into The Match Burger, a classic arrangement of burger, bacon, cheddar dip and onions on a mouthopening bun. The more experienced among you might be ready for something like the Lamb Burger with yogurt, feta, red onion raita, spicy cucumbers and a pomegranate aioli. Tip: Have napkins ready.

Pizza Letizia’s 666 Main Ave., Norwalk, 203-847-6022; letiziaspizza.com Ribs/Barbecue Hoodoo Brown BBQ 967 Ethan Alley Hwy., Ridgefield, 203-438-6033; hoodoobrownbbq.com Salads Little Pub 531 East Putnam Ave., Cos Cob, 203-717-1147 | 26 Danbury Rd., Wilton, 203-762-1122 | 2133 Black Rock Tpk., Fairfield, 203-612-4567; see all locations at littlepub.com

DROP-IN SPOTS Breakfast + Food Truck The Tasty Yolk 1505 Pequot Ave., Southport, 203-726-6520 | 999 Brookside Dr., Fairfield, 203-526-9745 | 4700 Park Ave., Bridgeport, 203-572-8884 | storefront: 2992 Fairfield Ave., Bridgeport, 203-545-9311; thetastyyolk.com

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WINNING ADVICE

Marc Penvenne, owner of Méli-Mélo on Greenwich Avenue

Eating healthy on the run with Organic Krush options for everyone.

JUICES A salad is tempting, but you’re juicing today. Try “Fighter,” with carrot, orange, grapefruit, lemon and ginger, or throw back a “Wellness Shot” with lemon, orange, ginger, turmeric and cayenne.

GLUTEN-FREE If you’re avoiding gluten, you’re in good hands here. Consider the Paleo Muffin with chocolate espresso, banana spice or sweet potato chai, or the superseed muffin with seeds, nuts, pear, carrot and cinnamon.

Brunch + Lunch Spot Terrain Garden Café 561 Post Rd. E., Westport, 203-226-27350; shopterrain.com

Diner Orem’s Diner 167 Danbury Rd., Wilton, 203-762-7370; oremsdiner.com

Café/Bistro Méli-Mélo 362 Greenwich Ave., Greenwich, 203-629-6153; melimelogreenwich.com above: Choose from a variety of muffin flavors.

ACAI BOWLS Pick up a store combo, like the Elvis with peanut butter, banana and dark-chocolate chips or make your own with granola, maca, spinach, almonds or any of your faves.

Health/Organic Food Mike’s Organic 377 Fairfield Ave., Stamford, 203-274-6495; mikesorganic.com

Coffee Shop Coffee for Good 48 Maple Ave., Greenwich, 203-979-4898; coffeeforgood.org

Juice Bar The Stand Vegan Cafe 85 Mill Plain Rd., Fairfield, 203-873-0414; thestandvegancafe.com

Deli A & S Italian Fine Foods 2079 Black Rock Tpk., Fairfield, 203-576-1600; asfinefoods.com

Vegetarian Organic Krush 374 Post Rd. E., Westport, 475-477-1275; organickrush.com

MÉLI-MÉLO // Winner of BEST Café/Bistro

ur dear Best Of voters are to be commended for placing the laurels on a longtime champion, rather than being distracted by some flashy new cafe. Méli-Mélo opened in 1993 and has become a culinary landmark in Greenwich. Everyone, it seems, has been here and continues to recommend it to others. It’s hard to beat a classic French creperie, with freshly made salads, sandwiches like the Croque Monsieur Veg, and soups—not to mention outrageous crepes. We don’t mean to be loud Americans about this, but Goat Cheese Crepe, Chicken Rata Crepe, Salmon Crepe, or, oh my, a Dulce de Leche Crepe? That deserves to have praises sung loud and wide—right after this bite.

MARKETS + MORE Bakery + Cakes/Cup Cakes + Desserts DiMare Pastry Shop 1245 East Putnam Ave., Riverside, 203-637-4781 | 12 Largo Dr. S., Stamford, 203-967-2253; dimarepastry.com Butcher A & S Italian Fine Foods 2079 Black Rock Tpk., Fairfield, 203-576-1600; asfinefoods.com Caterer + Gourmet to Go Marcia Selden Catering & Events 65 Research Dr., Stamford, 203-353-8000; marciaselden.com

PHOTOGRAPHY: ORGANIC KRUSH, CONTRIBUTED; PENVENNE BY GARVIN BURKE

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PHOTOGRAPHY: PAVLOVA, CONTRIBUTED BY MARCIA SELDEN CATERING AND EVENTS; TABLE BY MAGGIE MARGUERITE PHOTOGRAPHY; DRINKS BY FROM PARRIS WITH LOVE

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above: A Strawberry Lemon Pavlova below, left: A party at the Seldens’s NYC venue, Above Twelve below, right: Pink Lady

MARCIA SELDEN CATERING & EVENTS // Winner of BEST Caterer + Gourmet to Go

veryone is going to RSVP yes to your next party. We know this because it’s going to be catered by Marcia Selden, and no one throws a festive feast like this outstanding local business. While the food, drinks and tablescapes are all done to perfection, there is also the X factor. Things just seem to flow without you having to worry, and that is because Marcia Selden and team have been at the top of their game for years. They know exactly what you’re expecting, and do more. All that’s left to do is enjoy every bite and sip and the beautiful moment.

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C O N N E C T I C U T • 2022

READERS’ PICKS Gourmet Grocery Balducci’s 1050 East Putnam Ave., Greenwich, 203-637-7600 | 1385 Post Rd. E., Westport, 203-254-5200; balduccis.com

Margaritas bartaco 222 Summer St., Stamford, 203-323-8226 | 20 Wilton Rd., Westport, 203-222-8226; see all locations at bartaco.com

Grocery Pickup/Delivery Option Mike’s Organic 377 Fairfield Ave., Stamford, 203-274-6495; mikesorganic.com

Martinis Tavern at GrayBarns 194 Perry Ave., Norwalk, 203-580-1900; tavernatgraybarns.com

Liquor Store Total Wine & More 380 Main St., Norwalk, 203-840-0007; see all locations at totalwine.com above: The bartaco restaurant in Westport

Organic Food Market Westport Farmers’ Market 50 Imperial Ave., Westport; westportfarmersmarket.com

bartaco // Winner of BEST Mexican + Margaritas

Seafood Market Fjord Fish Market 158 East Putnam Ave., Greenwich, 203-661-5006 | 22 East Ave., New Canaan, 203-966-2200 | 1015 Boston Post Rd., Darien, 203-202-9473 | 1835 Post Rd. E., Westport, 203-2559331; see all locations at fjordfishmarket.com

n the summer, we love a bit of salt in the breeze, maybe even a bit of salt spray in our hair, but, most especially, a bit of salt on our lips. Another round of margaritas, please! And, yes, add in a pack of tacos for the table. If you’ve been to bartaco even once (and you have; everyone has), then you know this is just the beginning of your order. Any time of day is a good time to drop by and enjoy the cozy, coastal vibes of this place. If we can’t be on a Mexican beach, this will do nicely.

Wine Shop Harry’s Wine & Liquor Market 2094 Post Rd., Fairfield, 203-259-4692; harryswine.com

BAR BOASTS Beer Selection + Pub Little Pub 531 East Putnam Ave., Cos Cob, 203-717-1147 | 26 Danbury Rd., Wilton, 203-762-1122 | 2133 Black Rock Tpk., Fairfield, 203-612-4567; see all locations at littlepub.com

Summer’s perfect drink, an ice-cold margarita, best served with Mexican food

Microbrewery Half Full 43 Homestead Ave., Stamford, 203-658-3631; halffullbrewery.com Mobile Bar The Vintage Horse thevintagehorses.com Outdoor Bar Cisco Brewers at The Village 4 Star Point, Stamford, 475-270-1300; thevillagestamford.com/ cisco-brewers Restaurant Bar BJ Ryan’s 57 Main St., Norwalk, 203-866-7926; bjryans.com Sports Bar Blind Rhino 15 N. Main St., Norwalk, 203-956-7243 | 3425 Fairfield Ave., Bridgeport, 203-362-5001; theblindrhino.com Wine Bar Barcelona Wine Bar 222 Summer St., Stamford, 203-348-4800 | 515 West Ave., Norwalk, 203-854-5600 | 4180 Black Rock Tpk., Fairfield, 203-255-0800; see all locations at barcelonawinebar.com Wine List Table 104 299 Long Ridge Rd., Stamford, 203-388-8898; table104stamford.com

PHOTOGRAPHY: INTERIOR BY MANNY VARGAS; MARGARITAS BY THOMAS MCGOVERN

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If we’ve learned anything from Cisco Brewers, it’s that life is better chilled.

PHOTOGRAPHY: DRINKS BY MORGAN IONE PHOTOGRAPHY: TABLE 104 BY THOMAS MCGOVERN; CISCO, PROVIDED BY BRAND

BREWS Founded on Nantucket, Cisco Brewers is authentic New England. Its brews: Wandering Haze Hazy IPA (Azacca, Citra, and Galaxy hops); Gripah Grapefruit IPA (citrus and tropical hops); Whale’s Tale Pale Ale (English style pale ale); Shark Tracker Light Lager (supports shark research); Grey Lady Wheat Ale (hazy wheat ale with citrus flavor).

When you’re feeling oh so fancy, head to Tavern at GrayBarns.

TABLE 104 // Winner of BEST Wine List

White or red? You can’t go wrong with the endlessly good list.

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WINNING ADVICE

TAVERN AT GRAYBARNS // Winner of BEST Martinis + Hotel Restaurant + Special Occasion/Date Night f you happen to be new to Fairfield County, let us explain that “tavern” and “barn” are exceptionally misleading for Tavern at GrayBarns. This place is beautiful. It’s like imagining where you can cast all your worries to the breeze and simply enjoy the finer things in life—and then exceeding even that dream. Its upscale sophistication isn’t the stuffy kind though. It’s just nice, as in fine wine, roasted oysters, wild swordfish, prime strip steak with béarnaise, and maybe even flourless chocolate torte. It’s the kind of nice that delivers the perfect martini to your table and you can almost taste it; and when you do, it’s even better.

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s it called Table 104 because of the number of times we’ve been here or for the number of wines it has in its collection? We confess that we don’t know.* And now that we’re looking at the wine list, we’re not sure it matters. Our focus is absorbed in picking from options among the Italian pinot grigios and the Californian Sauvignon Blancs, not to mention, of course, the French Cabernets. With many wonderful choices, it’s safe to have a favorite wine— they probably have it and look forward to uncorking it at your table. This restaurant is serious about its providing choices, and it sets a relaxing scene for you to enjoy whichever bottle you pick. (*P.S. We’re kidding—it’s located on Route 104.)

above: Refresh with a drink from Cisco Brewers—now in Stamford

SUMMER SPECIAL Cisco’s Summer Rays Golden Ale captures the spirit of the season. They call “Hoppy, tropical.” We call it “Happy, tropical!” They also have Hard Tea (Island Lemon, Surfside Peach, Atlantic Orange and Wild Blueberry) that aren’t too sweet.

THE GETAWAY Cisco also runs Triple Eight Distillery (like Cranberry Vodka and Nor’ Easter Bourbon) and Nantucket Vineyards. Beers, Triple 8 products and canned cocktails at The Village (no roadtrip needed).

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the

2022 w inners of

STYLE & SHOP

One of the best things about living in Fairfield County is THE AMAZING SHOPPING, from the local, independent boutiques to nationally known names. Getting ready for an event, changing up the wardrobe or house for a new season, or buying a gift for a lucky someone is all the more fun because of the shopping options in our area. If you’re a new resident, here’s your guide to must-see places. Longtime residents, check if your favorite made the list! westportmag.com

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READERS’ PICKS The iconic face of Darien Sport Shop, a landmark store in town for seventyfive years.

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THE WINNERS LIST FASHION Accessories + Designer Boutique Darien Sport Shop 1127 Post Rd., Darien, 203-655-2575; dariensport.com Consignment Olive My Stuff 39 Sanford St., Fairfield, 203-261-2783 Department Store + Women’s Fashion Nordstrom at the The SoNo Collection, 100 N. Water St., South Norwalk, 203-642-2634; nordstrom.com and thesonocollection.com Event Dresses/Bridal Gowns/Bridesmaid Dresses Marietta C. Designs 436 E. Putnam Ave., Greenwich; mariettac.com Eyewear Warby Parker 344 Greenwich Ave., Greenwich, 203-433-7701 | The SoNo Collection, 100 N. Water St., South Norwalk, 203-648-9689; warbyparker.com and thesonocollection.com

CONTRIBUTED

Jeans + Teen Fashion + Virtual/Online Shopping Services Apricot Lane 1499 Post Rd., Fairfield, 203-292-9888; apricotlaneboutique.com

DARIEN SPORT SHOP // Winner of BEST Accessories + Designer Boutique

hether we’re headed out to a game of tennis or a Saturday night fundraiser, we know where to find our look: Darien Sport Shop. For generations, it’s been stocked with the styles that work, with selections from dozens and dozens of designer brands, including Ralph Lauren, Billy Reid, Longchamp and Stuart Weitzman. No matter what your day brings, you can suit up head to toe with fresh style. Plus, rare these days, you will find expert help, free local delivery, curbside pick up, free alterations, personal shopping and more.

Lingerie + Swimwear Soleil Toile 44 Elm St., New Canaan, 203-966-2887 | 14 Post Rd. E., Westport, 203-454-8688; soleiltoile.com

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WINNING ADVICE

Get ready for a little summer romance, thanks to Love Shack Fancy’s flirty styles.

FRILLS Yes, embrace the fun of dressing with super-feminine ruffles and flowy waves. This shop puts it on arm sleeves and dress hems to perfection. Check out the Mayze mini skirt with three tiers.

SHEER Not everything has to be totally sheer, despite what we see on the Hollywood Red Carpet. Sometimes, just a touch of it will do—a bit at the shoulder, a hint at the hem. For example, the lace-accented Camisha maxi.

COLOR Face your fear and embrace bold, look-at-me color. From bright pinks to crisp blues—and even pops of metallics—you’ll find vibrancy here. Check the Avignon Cropped Cardigan in Sunset Coral—and pair it with everything.

above: A suit by Atelier Munro is tailored to your form and your taste.

MITCHELLS/RICHARDS // Winner of BEST Luxe Leisurewear + Men’s Fashion + Men’s Shoes + Personal/Private Shopping Services

ere’s the good news. Whether you question your own sense of style or you are solidly self-confident in your outfit-building skills, you are in good hands at Mitchells and Richards. There is no wrong here. You can choose from the world’s best designers and feel like you’re among family. Stop in to one of the trunk shows, consult your personal style advisor, view all of your purchases in your online “closet,” get expert alterations and more. You’ll enjoy shopping, because it feels like you’re just having a good time with your style-savvy friends.

PHOTOGRAPHY: LOVE SHACK FANCY BY ALISON NICHOLS: ATELIER MUNRO BY SERGIO KURHAJEC

above: A few of the ultra-feminine finds at Love Shack Fancy

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Turn heads in the Murcia heartshaped bikini from Marie Jo Swimwear. You’ll have total comfort, too, with padded cups and underwire for unrivaled support. The suit here is seen in the neon yellow with drop tassel.

SOLEIL TOILE // Winner of BEST Lingerie + Swimwear

COURTESY OF THE BRAND

e know you’re comfortable in your skin, and we love that. We celebrate that. Good for you! Now, let’s talk about feeling that way when you’re headed poolside or to the beach or when you’re getting ready for date night. Head to Soleil Toile, the local shop that has dozens of options for body-loving lingerie and swimwear in many styles. You’ll also find expert help, so what you select is not only flattering, but also so comfortable that it borders on magic. You’ll choose from the best brands in the business: Lelo, PrimaDonna, Marie Jo, La Perla and more. Being you just got that much more fun.

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ALL THAT GLITTERS Jewelry always makes a statement, so speak up, loud and clear. The most fashionable among us know that an outfit is made or broken with accessories, especially when it comes to jewelry. Whether it’s finishing off a trendy look just for fun or a power suit that is all business, choose your final touches wisely. Here are just a few of the top picks from our readers’ favorite jewelry destinations.

BETTERIDGE Winner of BEST Designer Jewelry

LUX BOND & GREEN Winner of BEST Fine Jewelry Emerald cut diamond engagement ring with trapezoid side stones. 5.85 ct center diamond, 80c side stones, set in hand-made platinum setting. $306,500

JL ROCKS Winner of BEST Local Jewelry Boutique Rose gold and enamel single diamond rings $475 each

Chanel LES INFINIS DE CAMÉLIA Transformable long necklace, 18K yellow gold, diamonds $41,400 Chanel BOUTON DE CAMÉLIA EARRINGS 18K yellow gold, diamonds $11,000

MANFREDI JEWELS Winner of BEST Watches PHOTOGRAPHY: COURTESY OF BRANDS

Grand Seiko Series 9 design. $9,100

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Luxe Leisurewear + Men’s Fashion + Men’s Shoes + Personal/Private Shopping Services Mitchells/Richards 359 Greenwich Ave., Greenwich, 203-622-0551 | 670 Post Rd. E., Westport, 203-227-5165; shop.mitchellstores.com

SHREVE, CRUMP & LOW Winner of BEST Special Occasion Jewelry

New Shop Love Shack Fancy 113 Greenwich Ave., Greenwich, 203-629-7915; loveshackfancy.com

5.80 carat Platinum Argyle Fancy Intense Pink Diamond Necklace. $1,500,000

Women’s Shoes Shoes ‘N’ More 251 Greenwich Ave., Greenwich, 203-629-2323 | 1074-1076 Post Rd., Darien, 203-202-7702 | 121 Elm St., New Canaan, 203-972-8484 | 275 Post Rd. E., Westport, 203-227-4224; see all locations at shoesnmore.com

JEWELRY Designer Jewelry Betteridge 239 Greenwich Ave., Greenwich, 203-869-0124; betteridge.com

HENRY C. REID JEWELERS Winner of BEST Wedding/Engagement Rings Hand-Forged Platinum Engagement Ring, Center stone 1.58CT, 18 diamonds on shank .18 CTW. $19,870

Estate Jewelry Peter Suchy 1137 High Ridge Rd., Stamford, 203-327-0024; petersuchyjewelers.com Everyday Jewelry ASHA 409 Greenwich Ave., Greenwich, 203-661-0100; ashabyadm.com Fine Jewelry Lux Bond & Green 136 Main St., Westport, 203-227-1300; lbgreen.com

R. HOLLANDER MASTER GOLDSMITH Winner of BEST Selection of Local Designers Engagement Ring: 1.70ct Oval Diamond flanked by 2( .50ct) Pear Shaped diamonds set into Handmade 18kt Rose Gold Three-Stone engagement ring. $22,500.00 Wedding Rings: Ladies 18kt Rose Gold Handmade wedding ring. $1,300.00 Gents: Satin finished Platinum over 18kt Rose Gold Handmade wedding ring. $2,500.00

Local Jewelry Boutique JL Rocks 292 Post Rd. E., Westport, 203-454-4541 | 5 Riverside Ln., Greenwich, 203-990-0043; jlrocks.com

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READERS’ PICKS Selection of Local Designers R. Hollander Master Goldsmith 154 Bedford St., Stamford, 203-363-2200; ringart.com Special Occasion Jewelry Shreve, Crump & Low 125 Greenwich Ave., Greenwich, 203-622-6205; shrevecrumpandlow.com Watches Manfredi Jewels 121 Greenwich Ave., Greenwich, 866-610-0705 | 72 Elm St., New Canaan, 203-966-8705; manfredijewels.com Wedding/Engagement Rings Henry C. Reid Jewelers 1591 Post Rd., Fairfield, 203-255-0447; hcreidjewelers.com

above: The plush Mirama Chair with luxurious performance fabric, here in Claremont in French Blue below: Beach House Breakfast Table

SERENA & LILY // Winner of BEST Furniture

HOME Antiques/Vintage Store Mongers Market 1155 Railroad Ave., Bridgeport, 203-583-5899; mongers-market.com

pen the windows and let in fresh air and sunshine. That’s the feeling with Serena & Lily’s coastal chic chairs, sofas, sectionals, poufs, hanging rattan chairs as well as tables, benches and more. The mix of natural wood, sunwashed whites and calming grays and blues always works—harmoniously enough to escape the worries of the world and usher in a full breath of comfort. When you’re picking out the main pieces, you’ll also have plenty of accessories to complete the picture.

Appliances Aitoro 401 Westport Ave., Norwalk, 203-847-2471; aitoro.com Closet/Organization California Closets 565 Westport Ave., Norwalk, 855-261-1573; californiaclosets.com Decor The Post 1799 Post Rd. E., Westport, 203-292-5700; thepostct.com Furniture Serena & Lily 35 Elm St., Westport, 203-635-8000; serenaandlily.com Garden Center Terrain 561 Post Rd. E., Westport, 203-226-2750; shopterrain.com

Hardware + Paint + Windows/Doors Ring’s End 181 West Ave., Darien, 203-655-2525; see all locations at ringsend.com Home Tech Robert Allen Multimedia 21 Cross St., New Canaan, 203-856-0058; ramultimedia-ctny.com Kitchen + Bath BENDER 235 Westport Ave., Norwalk, 203-663-0272 | 28 Harbor St., Stamford, 203-324-6166; see all showroom locations at benderplumbing.com Lighting Chloe Winston Lighting Design 68 Water St., Norwalk, 203-957-8686; chloewinstonlighting.com Linens Fig 66 Post Rd. E., Westport, 203-227-8669; figlinensandhome.com Outdoor Furniture Patio.com 428 West Putnam Ave., Greenwich, 203-869-3084 | 919 Post Rd. E., Westport, 203-222-1620; see all locations at patio.com Pool Design Shoreline 393 West Ave., Stamford, 203-967-1203; shorelinepools.com Rugs Redi-Cut 1620 Post Rd. E., Westport, 203-256-0414; redicarpets.com Stone Gault Stone Westport 203-227-5181; gaultstone.com

PHOTOGRAPHY: COURTESY OF SERENA & LILY

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READERS’ PICKS

MONGERS MARKET // Winner of BEST Antiques/Vintage Store

etting here can be a bit of a drive, but then you have a 75,000-square-foot playground of vintage, industrial salvage and antique items to light your imagination on fire. It’s like time travel with multiple jump portals. What to do with this 1950s wooden ladder? What about that 1970s metal canister? You’ll enjoy the hunt and then find treasures you didn’t even know you needed. If you’re looking for something specific or just for a bit of inspiration, browsing through the aisles and rooms at Mongers Market will add adventure to the pursuit.

GOLD COAST C O N N E C T I C U T • 2022

WINNING ADVICE

Just a few easy changes from Gault Stone to create your summer oasis.

above: Invite friends over to share stories around your new firepit on the patio.

left: A must destination for lovers of vintage and industrial style right: You’ll never know what you’ll find, which is the fun part.

PHOTOGRAPHY: MONGERS MARKET BY GARVIN BURKE; CALIFORNIA CLOSETS, CONTRIBUTED; FIREPIT, COURTESY OF GAULT STONE

CALIFORNIA CLOSETS // Winner of BEST Closet/Organization

emember that day when you found the absolutely perfect shirt/ sweater/shoe and you swore you’d wear it every single day? Yeah, where is it? When you get organized and outfit your wardrobe in a real system, say by California Closets— who obsesses about the details—you know exactly where your things go. You’ll not only take better care of your investment pieces, but also see new outfits with what you already have. Yes, that top goes perfectly with those pants and those shoes. Take the stress out of putting together looks. right: An ultra-contemporary glass closet for attractive and easy organization

PORCELAIN Trend alert! We learned that homeowners are going with porcelain pavers as an alternative to natural stone. It looks amazing around the pool as a patio. Best of all, it’s easy to install and antislip.

FIREPIT If you haven’t installed a firepit, don’t wait. It’s absolutely delightful any time of year. Ask about the stacked firepit kit, with a variety of options. It’s customized for you and easy to assemble.

LIGHTING What good is all that landscaping if it’s not properly lit? Lighting up your pathways and garden features is an easy way to enhance your property design. Enjoy summer warm breezes at Prime Restaurant waterside location.

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SERVICES & TO-DO’S

Need some expert help around the house or have a long list of things to get done on Saturday morning? We get it. Life’s busy, and there’s ALWAYS SOMETHING TO GET DONE. Luckily, we live in Fairfield County, which means there’s a helpful pro nearby and plenty of great shops to help us tick things off that list. Speaking of lists, here’s our readers’ list of essential places for beauty, fitness, family stuff and all the other essentials of the good life. westportmag.com

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READERS’ PICKS

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THE WINNERS LIST PAMPERING Blow Out/Updo H Salon 2060 Post Rd., Fairfield, 203-255-0798; hsaloncolorcutdesign.com Color + Women’s Styling/Salon The Color Café 23 Benedict Pl., Greenwich | Color Cafe North, 456 Main Ave., Norwalk, 203-769-1929; colorcafestudio.com Cosmetic Spa Elements Massage 2173 Black Rock Tpk., Fairfield, 203-923-2303; elementsmassage.com Eyebrow/Eyelash Services Bare, A Skincare Experience 495 Post Rd. E., Westport, 203-212-9846; bareskincarect.com Facial Esthetica Skin 21 Benedict Pl., Greenwich, 914-255-3020; estheticaskin.com

CONTRIBUTED

Makeup Application Lindsey Trop Weddings 42 Riverside Dr., Fairfield, 203-550-3769; lindseytropweddings.com

BLUEMERCURY // Winner of BEST Makeup Boutique

Makeup Boutique bluemercury 254 Greenwich Ave., Greenwich, 203-863-0005 | 120 Main St., New Canaan, 203-9727100 | 1015 Boston Post Rd., Darien, 203-656-9660 | 57 Main St., Westport, 203-222-9222 | 62 Main St., Westport, 203-227-6900; see all locations at bluemercury.com

es, absolutely, we’re all naturally beautiful. Yet, it’s nice to have a little help to emphasize our best features, products to protect our skin, tools and spritzs, sprays, and lotions that smell heavenly. Find it all at bluemercury. You can pick up everything you need, from facial rollers to mineral sunscreen. Bring your beauty-obsessed friends, too—you’ll see that the best brands are here. Stock up on your favorites and let the experts in store introduce you to a few of the latest goodies, including its own line: M-61. It also offers classes and application! JULY/AUGUST 2022 WESTPORT

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READERS’ PICKS

WINNING ADVICE

An Artistex massage is more than pure relaxation for your body.

above: Odete Dasilva, owner of Artistex Salon & Spa, a newly renovated space

GLOW // Winner of BEST Spray Tan

fter you’ve found the perfect summer sandals, white jeans and a stack of gold rings, you have one more stop to set them off. Head to GLOW for a luxury organic airbrush tan. Not only does it feel great, but it also makes a surprisingly big difference in how you feel about your overall look. You notice your healthy color and feel more confident in your skin. And other people notice you, too. At GLOW you can do a full-body or just face tan, as well as noninvasive body treatments to make the most of your shape at the peak of swimsuit season. Also, no reason to be self-conscious in the spa, because the treatments feel like head-to-toe pampering.

A healthy airbrush tan is a noninvasive body treatment with big impact.

MIND Who is stressed? Yeah. We’re all a bit on edge lately, so take a few moments to try the sauna, steam shower and meditation space— maybe add a therapeutic massage and spa facial.

BODYQUEST // Winner of BEST Barre Classes

PLANET Artistex Salon & Spa is a sustainable business, taking multiple steps, despite the effort, to offer environmental-friendly products and practices, reduce waste and recycle.

SUPPORT LOCAL Artistex opened a huge new space—4,000 square feet—and teamed up with Born of Earth Spa, to offer lots of innovative options for spa products and services. Laurie Glazer, owner of BodyQuest

PHOTOGRAPHY: ARTISTEX BY DAVID WEBBER; TAN © MARIDAV-ADOBESTOCK.COM

eady to put in the work? Great, that’s when you’ll finally see real results. Our readers picked BodyQuest for best barre classes. These workouts are designed to strengthen and shape your body, using pushups, planks and point, stretch, hold and pulse moves that find precise muscles you didn’t know you had. You don’t have to be a dancer to want to walk around in a dancer’s body—confident, strong, graceful, lifted and lean. This boutique studio offers in-person and on-demand classes to keep up with your busy lifestyle, because we know you’re dedicated to doing what it takes (regular practice) for lasting and noticeable change.

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READERS’ PICKS Mani/Pedi Posh Spa & Nails 195 Greenwich Ave., Greenwich, 203-900-1099 | 1077 Boston Post Rd., Darien, 203-309-5454 | 401 Post Rd. W., Westport, 203-2228830; poshct.com Massage Artistex Salon & Spa 260 Post Rd. E., Westport, 203-222-0344; artistexsalon.com Men’s Styling/Salon Westport Cut & Shave 235 Post Rd., Westport, 203-557-8500; westportcutshave.com Spray Tan GLOW 1081 East Putnam Ave., Riverside, 203-990-0209; glow-tone.com Waxing/Hair Removal The Waxing Spot 211 East Putnam Ave., Greenwich, 203-340-9590 | 420 Post Rd. W., Westport, 203-228-5118; thewaxingspot.com

FITNESS + GEAR

PHOTOGRAPHY: CONTRIBUTED BY CHELSEA PIERS - JEN POTTHEISER

Activewear Athleta 350 Greenwich Ave., Greenwich, 203-625-0129 | 103-107 Main St., Westport, 203-454-0001; see all locations at athleta.gap.com Barre BodyQuest 580 Post Rd. E., Westport, 203-227-6677; bodyqueststudio.com Bicycle Shop Velofix 85 Mill Plain Rd., Fairfield, 203-448-9753; velofix.com

Dance Fitness Allegra Dance Greenwich 245 Mill St., Greenwich, 203-629-9162; allegradancegreenwich.com

FAMILY LIFE Art Classes Make-modern 1985 Boston Post Rd., Darien, 203-655-1985; make-modern.com

Fitness Studio Orangetheory Fitness 1101 High Ridge Rd., Stamford, 203-883-9518 | 364 Boston Post Rd., Darien, 203-309-1669 | 205 Main St., Norwalk, 203-883-6070 | 645 Post Rd. E., Westport, 203-883-9262 | 525 Tunxis Hill Cut Off, Fairfield, 203-883-8220; orangetheoryfitness.com

Children’s/Baby Décor Groove 420 Post Rd. W., Westport, 203-557-8111 | 115 Elm St., New Canaan, 203-920-1700; shopgroove.net Children’s Clothes Classic Prep 161 Rowayton Ave., Rowayton, 203-490-6511; classicprep.com

Golf Equipment Golf Galaxy 595 Connecticut Ave., Norwalk, 203-855-0500; see all locations at golfgalaxy.com

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WINNING ADVICE

Let the kids burn off their excess energey at Chelsea Piers CT fitness destination.

COMPETITIVE TEAMS Ready to commit to a sport? You have your choice here, including aquatics (ages 7–18), gymnastics (5–13), soccer (U8– U18), swimming (7–18) and Vollyeball (11–18).

Children’s Fitness Training + Children’s Parties Chelsea Piers Connecticut 1 Blachley Rd., Stamford, 203-989-1000; chelseapiersct.com

Gym Chelsea Piers Connecticut 1 Blachley Rd., Stamford, 203-989-1000; chelseapiersct.com

Children’s Haircuts Sharkey’s Cuts for Kids 1568 Post Rd. E., Westport, 203-557-8700; sharkeyscutsforkids.com

Indoor Cycling JoyRide Cycling + Fitness 1200 Post Rd. E., Westport, 203-349-5454; joyridestudio.com

Children’s Music Lessons Fairfield |Trumbull School of Music 531 Tunxis Hill Rd., Fairfield, 203-690-1888 | 100 Corporate Dr., Trumbull, 203-445-6565; ftsmusic.org

Pilates Black Rock Pilates 2889 Fairfield Ave., Bridgeport, 203-335-1987; blackrockpilates.com Private Fitness Training + Virtual/Live Stream Fitness Upper Deck Fitness 225 High Ridge Rd., Stamford, 203-309-6231; upperdeckfitness.com

College Prep Courses Carnegie Prep 203-352-3500; carnegieprep.com Family-Friendly Restaurant Little Pub 531 East Putnam Ave., Cos Cob, 203-717-1147 | 26 Danbury Rd., Wilton, 203-762-1122 | 2133 Black Rock Tpk., Fairfield, 203-612-4567; see all locations at littlepub.com

Yoga Sama Yoga Center 45 Grove St., New Canaan, 203-594-7077; samayogacenter.com

Crossfit Crossfit Norwalk 30 Muller Ave., Norwalk, 203-939-1040; crossfitnorwalk.com

Nanny/Babysitting Services Nannies As Needed see all locations at nanniesasneeded.com

above: Learn to swim or fully compete in the sport

CAMPS Summer camps and school-break camps are a lot more fun when you’re running around, learning what you love to do. Examples, gymnastics, sports and parkour. Check online for age groups.

SPORTS TRAINING Squash, tennis, volleyball, dance, basketball, swimming, lacrosse, gymnastics and more, your favorite sport has a coach to get you even better.

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C O N N E C T I C U T • 2022

READERS’ PICKS

WINNING ADVICE

Pick a handful of pretty flowers at McArdle’s Floral & Garden.

Toy Store Darien Toy Box 1064 Boston Post Rd., Darien, 203-202-2992; darientoybox.com

203-869-3361 | 600 Riverside Ave., 203-227-6153 | 190 Weston Rd., Weston, 203-349-5302; minutemencleaners.com Event Venue The Inn at Longshore 260 Compo Rd. S., Westport, 203-226-3316; innatlongshore.com

DAILY ESSENTIALS Auto Repair Shop JR Auto & Truck Repair 110 Lenox Ave., Stamford, 203-588-0290; FB jrautoandtruckrepair

“THE GREENWICH” This floral arrangement comes in six sizes and six styles, and the color palette is pure Greenwich: pink, white and green. It’s a lush and irresistible combo that works in any style, low to tall.

“SEAFOAM” If you prefer the cool end of the color spectrum, check out this arrangement with shades of blue, gray, white and green. It’s a coastal vibe that’s as calming as it is luxurious.

Fine Art Gallery C. Parker Gallery 409 Greenwich Ave., Greenwich, 203-661-0205; cparkergallery.com

Bookstore Barnes & Noble 76 Post Rd. E., Westport, 203-221-7955; barnesandnoble.com

Florist McArdle’s Floral & Garden Design 48 Arch St., Greenwich, 203-661-5600; mcardles.com

Car Wash Splash Car Wash see all locations at splashcarwashes.com

Gift Shop Navy Lobster 58 William St., Greenwich, 203-625-8243

CBD Store Franny’s Farmacy 33 Elm St., Westport, 203-557-4397; frannysfarmacy.com

Livery Service Rudy’s Limousine 203-609-8000 (reservations), 866-678-3700 (curbside pickup); rudylimo.com

Custom Built Automotive European Auto Center Repair 539 West Ave., Norwalk, 203-852-0500; europeanautocenterrepair.com

Local Hotel Delamar Southport 275 Old Post Rd., Southport, 203-259-2800; delamar.com/southport

Dry Cleaners Minute Men Cleaners 223 East Putnam Ave.,

Pet Groomer/Pet Spa + Veterinarian

Pet Supplies/Clothing Earth Animal 925 Post Rd. E., Westport, 203-222-7173; earthanimal.com Portrait Photographer + Wedding Photographer Melani Lust melanilustphotography.com Shoe Repair Westfair Shoe Repair 1783 Post Rd. E., Westport, 203-259-5587 Stationery/Formal Invitations The Write Stuff thewritestuffct.com Storage Facility Westy Self Storage 80 Brownhouse Rd., Stamford, 203-961-8000 | 50 Keeler Ave., Norwalk, 203-899-1234 | 65 Danbury Rd., Wilton, 203-762-7600 | 2070 Kings Hwy., Fairfield, 203-256-2777; see all locations at westy.com Tailor Mitchells/Richards 359 Greenwich Ave., Greenwich, 203-622-0551 | 670 Post Rd. E., Westport, 203-227-5165; shop.mitchellstores.com

EARTH ANIMAL // Winner of BEST Pet Supplies/Clothing

above: The lovely coastal arrangement with blues and greens

appy, healthy pets don’t just happen. They take thoughtful care. Earth Animal is a well-known destination for all-natural pet products, including food and treats, as well as natural remedies and supplements (at the height of summer, check out tick remedies, for example). The Westport store is also beautiful and a pleasure to shop. So, hurry, go fetch!

“MELLOW” These sunshine-colored flowers, all arranged together, will be sure to brighten anyone’s day. They’re pure innocent happiness in pale to vibrant yellows paired with green and white.

Spot On Veterinary Hospital & Hotel 184 Selleck St., Stamford, 203-973-7768; spotonvet.com

The upscale market is stocked with pet health in mind.

CONTRIBUTED

GOLD COAST

westportmag.com

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GOFER Thank youupfoproyrto!!ur

s&s voteAlways It’s a Good Day to... Gofer Ice Cream!

It’s Al a Goo Gofer

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you for your Westport Gofer ofThank votes & support! of 2022! Opening summer

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- Become a Franchise Partner GOFERFRANCHISE.COM

GREENWICH • STAMFORD • DARIEN WILTON • NEW CANA AN • RIDGEFIELD GOFERICECREAM.COM GOFERFRANCHISE.COM GOFERICECREAM.COM

OFFERING BY PROSPECTUS ONLY

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GREENWICH • WILTON • NE GOFERICECREA

When You Love Your Car, You Trust It To The Best ~ SPLASH! Thank you for naming Splash Car Wash the “Best Car Wash” 18 years in a row! ears 18 Y ow! R in a

Proudly servicing our communities since 1981! www.splashcarwashes.com

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BEST OF TOWN

We love to celebrate the Gold Coast wins, but there’s something special about winning BEST OF WESTPORT, WESTON & WILTON, which makes this section a keeper. It’s like an insider’s guide to the best places close to home. Pick one from each section and you’ve practically planned a great day out—and you just might discover a few new local favorites.

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READERS’ PICKS

THE WINNERS LIST FOOD & DRINK RESTAURANTS Best Service + Tapas Basso bassobistrocafe.com Business Lunch Terrain Garden Cafe shopterrain.com Creative Menu + Private Dining/Intimate Venue Kawa Ni kawaniwestport.com Hotel Restaurant La Plage laplagewestport.com New Restaurant + Steak Gabriele’s of Westport gabrielesofwestportct.com

PHOTOGRAPHY: KAWA NI, CONTRIBUTED; GABRIELE’S BY GONATION

Outdoor Dining + Outdoor Seating bartaco bartaco.com

Asian Fusion Kawa Ni kawaniwestport.com Chinese The Little Kitchen of Westport littlekitchenwestport.com French Rive Bistro rivebistro.com Greek + Mediterranean Layla’s Falafel laylasfalafel.com Indian The Naan thenaanct.com

Kawa Ni is the kind of place to go if you have no idea what you want to eat. You’ll find a menu of options that will surprise and delight you, and the vibe will put you at ease right away.

Mexican bartaco bartaco.com Spanish Basso bassobistrocafe.com Thai Rainbow Thai rainbowthaict.com

CASUAL FOOD

Seafood + Special Occasion/Date Night The Whelk thewhelkwestport.com

Bagels PopUp Bagels popupbagels.com

REGIONAL SPECIALTIES

KAWA NI // Winner of BEST Creative Menu + Private Dining/Intimate Venue + Asian Fusion

Japanese Sakura sakurarestaurant.com

Pickup/Delivery Option Manna Toast Café mannatoast.com

Sushi OKO okokitchen.com

above: Philadelphia crab hand roll: cucumber, wasabi furikake, trout roe

Italian Tarantino tarantinorestaurant.com

Breakfast GG & Joe ggandjoe.com Burritos + Salads Little Pub littlepub.com

above: Gabriele’s elegantly designed main dining room

GABRIELE’S // Winner of BEST New Restaurant + Steak Gabriele’s, new to Westport, is backed by lots of restaurant experience. When if opened in the handsome space next to Westport Country Playhouse, the team knew exactly how to set the stage, from preparing a fancy table to serving perfect steaks.

American Little Pub littlepub.com

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READERS’ PICKS

MARKETS & MORE

Hamburgers Match Burger Lobster matchburgerlobster.com

Bakery + Desserts The Painted Cookie paintedcookie.com

Hot Dogs Heibeck’s Stand heibecksstand.com

Butcher Shop Stiles Farmers Market stilesmarket.com

Ice Cream Cold Fusion coldfusiongelato.com

Caterer AMG Catering & Events amgcatering.com

Pizza Parlor parlorwilton.com

Cakes/Cup Cakes The Cake Box thecakeboxofct.com

Ribs/Barbecue Wire Mill Saloon & Barbecue wiremillbbq.com

Gourmet Grocery Balducci’s balduccis.com

DROP-IN SPOTS

Gourmet to Go Aux Délices auxdelicesfoods.com

Breakfast The Porch at Christie’s theporchatchristies.com Brunch Terrain Garden Cafe shopterrain.com Café/Bistro Rive Bistro rivebistro.com Coffee Shop Shearwater shearwatercoffeeroasters .com Deli Gaetano’s Deli gaetanosdelis.com Diner Orem’s Diner oremsdiner.com Health/Organic + Lunch Spot + Vegetarian/ Organic/Health Manna Toast Café mannatoast.com Juice Bar Organic Krush organickrush.com

above: Find plenty of organic vegetarian options at the downtown café.

MANNA TOAST // Winner of BEST Health/Organic + Lunch Spot + Vegetarian + Outdoor Bar All these wins say you already know this cafe, with lots of mouthwatering vegetarian options, is just that good. Grab a bite or a whole meal, including cocktails.

Grocery Pickup/ Delivery Option The Fresh Market thefreshmarket.com Liquor Store + Wine Shop The Fine Wine Company of Westport thefinewinecompany ofwestport.com Organic Food Market The Organic Market organicmarketct.com Seafood Market Fjord Fish Market fjordfishmarket.com

BAR BOASTS Beer Selection + Pub + Sports Bar Little Pub littlepub.com

above: A classic pizza, done perfectly well

PARLOR // Winner of BEST Pizza

Margaritas Don Memo donmemowestport.com

If you take your pizza seriously, then you must stop by Parlor. Their pizza, based off a Naples style, took four years to perfect, from the fermentation timing to the flour blend. They are not pie in the sky dreamers about their food; they are goal getters and success is the only option. They won over our readers. Also, stop by Sunday for half-price wine bottles.

Martinis Hudson Malone hudsonmalone.com

PHOTOGRAPHY: MANNA TOAST BY STACY BASS: PARLOR BY VENERA ALEXANDROVA; HOFFMAN LANDSCAPES, CONTRIBUTED

Frozen Yogurt Sunny Daes sunnydaesicecream.com

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READERS’ PICKS Mobile Bar The Vintage Horse thevintagehorses.com

New Shop Sundance sundancecatalog.com

Home Tech Vivid-Tek vivid-tek.com

Outdoor Bar Manna Toast Café mannatoast.com

Teen Fashion B Chic 203-210-7037

Kitchen +Bath Kohler us.kohler.com/us/

Restaurant Bar Spotted Horse Tavern spottedhorsect.com

Women’s Shoes Shoes ‘N’ More shoesnmore.com

Lighting + Linens Serena & Lily serenaandlily.com

JEWELRY

Outdoor Furniture Patio.com patio.com

Designer Jewelry Mitchells shop.mitchellstores.com

Paint + Windows/Doors Ring’s End ringsend.com

Everyday Jewelry emmy starr designs emmystarrdesigns.com

Pool Design Hoffman Landscapes hoffmanlandscapes.com

Fine Jewelry + Special Occasion Jewelry + Watches + Wedding/Engagement Rings Lux Bond & Green lbgreen.com

Rugs Redi-Cut redicarpets.com

Wine Bar + Wine List Harvest Wine Bar & Restaurant harvestwinebar.com

STYLE & SHOP FASHION Accessories + Personal/ Private Shopping Services + Virtual/Online Shopping Services Classically Cate classicallycateboutique.com Consignment Roundabout Resale Couture roundaboutcouture.com Department Store + Luxe Leisurewear + Men’s Fashion + Men’s Shoes + Women’s Fashion Mitchells shop.mitchellstores.com Designer Boutique fred thefredshop.com Event Dresses/Bridal Gowns/Bridesmaid Dresses The Plumed Serpent Bridal plumedserpentbridal.com

Stone Gault gaultstone.com

SERVICES + TO-DO’S PAMPERING Blow Out/Updo + Facial + Mani/Pedi + Massage + Spray Tan + Waxing Artistex Salon & Spa artistexsalon.com Color + Women’s Styling/Salon Salon 293 east salon293east.com

Local Jewelry Boutique + Selection of Local Designers JL Rocks jlrocks.com

HOME Antiques/Vintage Bungalow bungalowdecor.com Closet/Organization House of PRIM primliving.com Decor The Post thepostct.com

Eyewear Specs specsforyou.com

Furniture Serena & Lily serenaandlily.com

above: A well-designed, high-quality pool and patio make all the difference

Jeans Madewell madewell.com

Garden Center Terrain shopterrain.com

HOFFMAN LANDSCAPES // Winner of BEST Pool Design

Lingerie + Swimwear Soleil Toile soleiltoile.com

Hardware Westport Hardware westporthardwarestore.com

You found your dream house, so why wait to put in a pool? Our readers pick Hoffman’s team of landscape designers, masons, and other pros to not just put in a pool, but to make sure that the pool and all around it looks great. The creativity is extraordinary, and you simply get to enjoy everyday that much more.

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READERS’ PICKS

Yoga Abbey Chase Yoga abbeychaseyoga.com

FAMILY LIFE Art Classes MoCA Westport mocawestport.org Children’s/Baby Décor + Children’s Clothes Southern Yankee southernyankee.com

above: The highly effective workout at MPR uses all of your muscles.

MPR FITNESS // Winner of BEST Private Fitness Training + Virtual/Live Stream

Children’s/Youth Fitness Training + Children’s Parties Team DIG teamdigusa.com

If you’re going to put in the work, you want results. That’s fair. The trainers at MPR get it, so workout in person or virtually and expect your body to respond: strength, flexibility, coordination.

CBD Store Franny’s Farmacy frannysfarmacy.com Dry Cleaners Dean Cleaners of Westport deancleaners.com Event Venue + Hotel Inn at Longshore innatlongshore.com Fine Art Gallery George Billis georgebillis.com Florist Compo Farm Florist compofarmflowers.com Gift Shop Classically Cate classicallycateboutique.com Livery Teddy’s Transportation teddyslimo.com

Children’s Haircuts Sharkey’s Cuts for Kids sharkeyscutsforkids.com

Pet Groomer Townhouse townhousefordogs.com

Cosmetic Spa Wisdom & Youth wisdomandyouthllc.com

Bicycle Shop Cycle Dynamics cycledynamics.com

Children’s Music Lessons Wilton Music Studios wiltonmusicstudios.com

Pet Supplies/Pet Clothing Earth Animal earthanimal.com

Eyebrow Services Eye Coco eyecoco.com

Crossfit CrossFit Westport crossfitwestport.com

College Prep Courses Collegewise Westport collegewise.com/locations/ westport-ct/

Portrait + Wedding Photographer Melani Lust melanilustphotography.com

Makeup Application Haus of Pretty hausofpretty.com

Dance Fitness Freyer Academy of Ballet fabballet.com

Family-Friendly Restaurant Little Pub littlepub.com

Shoe Repair Westfair Shoe Repair 203-259-5587

Makeup Boutique bluemercury bluemercury.com

Fitness Studio Orangetheory Fitness orangetheoryfitness.com

Stationery The Write Stuff thewritestuffct.com

Men’s Hairstyling Westport Cut & Shave westportcutshave.com

Golf Equipment Longshore Golf Course Pro Shop longshoregolfcourse.com

Toy Store Age of Reason ageofreason1.wixsite.com/ website

FITNESS & GEAR

Gym Saugatuck Rowing & Fitness Club saugatuckrowing.com

Auto Repair Shop Christie’s Service 203-227-2918

Indoor Cycling JoyRide Cycling + Fitness joyridestudio.com

Bookstore Barnes & Noble barnesandnoble.com

Pilates Pilates Girl pilatesgirl.com

Car Wash Splash Car Wash splashcarwashes.com

Activewear/Running Shoes Fleet Feet fleetfeet.com Barre BodyQuest Barre Studio bodyqueststudio.com

DAILY ESSENTIALS

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Storage Facility Westy Self Storage westy.com Tailor Stephen Kempson stephenkempson.com Veterinarian Melissa Shapiro visitingvetservice.com CONTRIBUTED

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and

play time a guide to schools and activities for your wee ones

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sk any older parent of temperamental teens: the preschool years are magical! From the day they first venture into a classroom, your little ones will grow in so many ways. Cherished memories will be made at your child’s first school, from hearty sing-alongs and messy art projects to adorable playground antics. Which preschool you choose will provide the framework for this special phase and likely influence the friends you and your child keep for years to come. We reached out to some of the popular preschools in our area and asked them to describe their schools and tell us what makes them unique. Parents also chimed in with their praise. Looking for after-school or summer activities? Reference our list of favorites that are sure to keep a smile on your youngsters’ faces all afternoon, weekend and summer too. by jill johnson mann

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Children’s Community Development Center (CCDC) myccdc.org 90 Hillspoint Rd., Westport 203-226-8033 Infant daycare, young toddler, older toddler, and 3s, 4s preschool CCDC is shaping the future through nurturing community, protecting childhood, and cultivating respect. We are the lab school for the UConn–Stamford Early Childhood Program, are a certified Nature Explore Outdoor Classroom, have an Eco-Friendly endorsement and have been continuously accredited by NAEYC since 1988. Enrichment classes and consultants include music, art, phys ed, tae kwon do, Animal Embassy, occupational and speech therapy, and child psychologist.

Children’s Day School of Wilton cdswpreschool.com 111 Ridgefield Rd., Wilton 203-762-8001 2s, 3s and 4s preschool and 5s/pre-K program “The Children's Day School of Wilton is a play-based preschool that was established in 1997 and is run by a volunteer board of directors and a Director of Education. The school services ninety families from Wilton and nearby towns. Situated on three acres of land with four playgrounds and a nature trail, CDSW is a welcoming and nurturing place for children. We also pride ourselves on creating a sense of community for our families with events like Fall Family Fun Day, Touch a Truck, Spring Soiree and the End-of-Year picnic at Merwin Meadows.”

Earthplace Preschool earthplace.org/preschool 10 Woodside Lane, Westport 203-557-4400 Full-time program for 6 weeks old to age 2, 2s and age 3 to 5 Part-time program for 2s, 3s and 4s, 4s, and 5s

“For over fifty years, CHT Preschool’s high-quality early childhood program has offered a learning environment that values the natural curiosity of childhood and reflects the unique interests and abilities of each child. We are NAEYC accredited and a longtime member of the National Association of Episcopal Schools. Our curriculum is inspired by the Reggio Emilia approach and a deep respect for each child’s innate desire to understand the world around them and express themselves. But what truly sets us apart is our amazing teachers and families who collaborate to create the magnificent CHT community!”

“Earthplace Preschool is one of the oldest accredited naturebased preschools in the country. We provide hands-on learning experiences in nature and in the classroom with a nature- and standards-based curriculum designed to address all aspects of child development. Children are given opportunities to learn and develop through inquiry, exploration and play.”

Green’s Farms Nursery School (GFNS) greensfarmsnurseryschool.org 71 Hillandale Rd., Westport 203-227-9363 1s, 2s, 3s, 4s, long day 4s, 5s/ Kindergarten

Early Childhood Center (at Temple Israel) tiwestport.org 14 Coleytown Rd., Westport 203-227-1656 Gan Katan (12 to 24 mo.), 2s, 3s, 4s

“Green’s Farms Nursery School provides a joyful environment that celebrates individualized, developmentally appropriate learning through play. Brand new, light-filled, spacious classrooms are whimsically appointed, setting the stage for rich, meaningful learning experiences guided by nurturing, experienced early childhood education professionals. GFNS creates learning environments that reflect the community we live in, respect students and educators, and up-level the early childhood experience. Within that environment, GFNS's rich, individualized curriculum and

“ECC is an inviting and engaging preschool and community. We are NAEYC accredited and offer bright, enriching classrooms, an extensive outdoor campus and an eclectic curriculum. At ECC, warm, caring, professionally trained teachers support social/ emotional, cognitive, physical and spiritual development for all. Jewish celebrations and values highlight and inform our practices throughout the year.”

right: Outdoor playtime at Saugatuck Nursery School

warm, nurturing approach create meaningful, magical learning experiences.”

Landmark Preschool landmarkpreschool.org 11 Burr Rd., Westport 203-226-6982 1s, 2s, 3s, 4s, Fundamentals/5s “Landmark Preschool fosters a caring, collaborative school environment in which purposeful learning experiences support social, cognitive and physical development. By working with each student on an individual level, experienced teachers empower students to take the first early steps toward becoming leaders, creative problem solvers and good communicators. As a learning-based preschool, our program nurtures curiosity, inspires creativity and celebrates childhood. We believe that children are curious, capable and ready to learn at an early age; while at play, their minds are busy at work.”

Learning Community Day School (LCDS) learningcommunitydayschool .org 90 Hillspoint Rd., Westport 203-227-8394 2s, 3s, 4s, and full accredited Kindergarten program “LCDS is a child-centered school rather than a teacher-centered program. We prioritize the needs and interests of our children and our classrooms are designed to facilitate their discoveries. By providing materials that inspire and extend their play and supporting their problem-solving and language development, we create environments where wonderful ideas are born every day. The children's interests are utilized as a springboard for learning. Our teachers use The Project Approach to guide children through open-ended studies of real-world topics that emerge from their curiosities and questions. Project investigations promote new skills, creativity, critical thinking and collaboration.”

CONTRIBUTED IMAGES

preschools

Christ and Holy Trinity Preschool chtpreschool.org 45 Church Lane, Westport 203-226-4616 2s, 3s, 4s and 5s

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St. Francis of Assisi Preschool stfrancisweston.org/preschool 35 Norfield Rd., Weston 203-454-8646 Mommy & Me Class (birth to 2 yrs.), 2s, 3s, 4s

instruction and related services to students who are eligible. The cornerstone of the program is the integration of students without identified special needs who provide modeling of ageappropriate skills in all areas of development. This program is offered on a first-come, first-serve basis.”

Hands-on learning at Landmark Preschool

“We are a project-based preschool driven by the children’s curiosity of the world. We make the environment the third teacher. Our extensive outdoor campus and outdoor classroom space seeds learning and curiosity. We are dedicated to being a responsible first step out of the house environment, supporting families as we honor their children’s growing selves and enable them to explore their place in the world safely. Our goal is to build strong, kind, reflective community members.”

St. Paul Christian School stpaulchristianschool.org 41 Easton Rd., Westport 203- 227-7920 Mommy and Me Play Group (9 mo. to 3 yrs.), 2s, 3s, 4s, 5s Foundations/Kindergarten “St. Paul Christian School opened in 1976 and is NAEYC accredited. We are dedicated to developing the whole child and nurturing each child’s unique abilities and needs. Our STEAM+S curriculum incorporates science, technology, engineering, art, math and spiritual (christian education) concepts, helping children to explore, observe, ask questions, and predict in an early-childhood setting. Our preschool is a special place because of the Christian education each child receives. It is a safe and loving school where children are nurtured as they learn. Our teachers are well equipped to help children grow spiritually, as well as academically.”

TCS Preschool tcswestport.org 30 Hillspoint Rd., Westport 203-454-4673 1s Onederplay Grown Up and Me program, Tiny 2s preschool preparatory program, 2s, 3s, 4s

Saugatuck Nursery School saugatucknurseryschool.org 245 Post Road East, Westport 203-226-9192 2s, 3s, 4s

lead teachers are AMI Montessori trained and certified at their program level. Our Preschool-K programs—toddler (fourteen months to two-and-a-half years) and primary (two-and-a-half years to six years)—provide a strong foundation in an inspiring, joyful and nurturing environment that supports and encourages independence, exploration, growth and community. At each stage our curriculum cultivates intellectual curiosity and subject mastery through hands-on, experiential and personalized learning naturally woven into each child’s social, emotional and physical growth.”

“The mission of Saugatuck Nursery School is to provide a program that is caring and loving, committed to having each individual child feel successful, while being responsive to his or her needs. Saugatuck Nursery School offers a variety of part-time programs for children ages two to five years old. Our students thrive in the warm and nurturing environment that our seasoned and professional teachers provide.”

Seven Acres Montessori themontessorischool.com 34 Whipple Rd., Wilton 203-834-0440 Infant & Parent Education Classes, toddler program, and three mixed-age primary classes

Stepping Stones Preschool (at Coleytown Elementary) ssp.westportps.org 65 Easton Rd., Westport 203-341-1712 3s, 4s (free for students with special needs; peer model students pay tuition)

“Seven Acres Montessori is a private, accredited Montessori school beautifully situated in Wilton, serving children ages fourteen months to eighth grade in greater Fairfield County. All

“Stepping Stones Preschool is an early intervention, language based program that serves children ages three and four through a half-day or full-day program. The program is designed to offer specialized

“TCS Preschool is a play-based program encouraging hands-on, child-lead learning. As a Jewish preschool, we provide children and families opportunities to explore Jewish culture and deepen their sense of identity. Through meaningful, developmentally appropriate experiences, children build a sense of their own identity and a deep appreciation for community and diversity. We value children’s natural ways of discovering and making sense of the world, scaffolding their growth and extending their curiosity through active exploration. We appreciate the unique qualities of each child and seek to foster individual confidence and a lifelong appreciation for community and Jewish life.”

Westport Weston Cooperative Nursery School (Co-op) westportwestoncoop.org 10 Lyons Plain Rd., Westport 203-227-9318 1s, 2s, 3s, 4s “The Co-op is a child-centered nursery school that offers a rich, natural environment for children to explore as seasons change. We approach the world of early learning through the wide lens of the natural world which stimulates the senses and sparks imagination. The Co-op has a parent Board of Directors that works to build a strong sense of community through planning social events, offering parent education talks and organizing fundraising events.”

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play time

Parent Preschool Pride I had four daughters go through the Co-op; my youngest is 'graduating' this year and headed to kindergarten. I can't think of a better gift to my kids than four years at the Co-op. —Maria Mulvehill

Beachy Keen Compo Beach Enjoy the playground, eat at Hook’d on the Sound, splash around, collect shells and snails at low tide, cook out on South Beach—your children’s best memories will be made here.

Earthplace Preschool changed the course of our son’s development, helping him grow exponentially. They made an impact in this world greater than the geography of Earthplace because they cared for him. —Bridget T. Our girls absolutely adore the ECC; it is their home away from home. The clergy, administration and teachers have become such important influences on their overall development and self-confidence, and on a daily basis you can see and feel how much each of them cares for all of the children of the ECC. —Jami A.

Old Mill Beach A cute little beach across from the old Elvira’s Market (which, incidentally, the community is trying to save from being lost forever to residential developers. Visit the save-elviras gofundme page so your kids can enjoy this almost 100-year-old community gem). No facilities.

When we moved to Westport from NYC, we looked at every option for schools and Green’s Farms Nursery School immediately stood out and was by far the warmest—a happy place that in a dark time (Covid) sparked joy, security and a love of learning in our children. They are experts in establishing a supportive foundation for kids to launch their academic pursuits. —Sarah Robinson

Burying Hill Beach For a quieter beach retreat, visit this 2.4-acre park on Beachside Avenue. Changing and bathroom facilities, picnic tables.

The teachers and administration are some of the best and most caring humans I've ever met. Landmark is one of the best gifts you can give your child! —Landmark parent

Beach parking passes can be purchased online from Parks & Rec (below).

It is in fact just that, a Learning Community—an active learning environment where the teachers and administrators empower your children to learn through experience. A medley of art, music, science, nature, math, yoga and more, in a natural, relaxing environment with a lot of smiles. We are thrilled to be a part of this enriching environment and our children feel the same. — Danny White

Must-Knows Longshore Pools for all ages, tennis courts, golf course, sailing club, kayak and paddle board rentals, ice skating and rentals in winter. One of the biggest perks for Westport residents! Purchase your annual handpass from Parks & Rec (below).

A truly wonderful preschool! Each of my three children who have been enrolled here thrived in the Saugatuck Nursery School environment. First-rate teachers and a director who truly care about the children ensure a learning environment that each of my children has loved. —SNS parent My three children graduated from Seven Acres Montessori. The school means a lot to my family and I consider it the greatest gift I could have given them, and me, not only in terms of authentic Montessori education, but also for the people: caring and talented students and staff and a nurturing, fun community. —Sharon Grace

Westport Parks & Recreation Westport Parks & Rec offer an array of activities, including the popular (and affordable) swim and tennis lessons at Longshore and skating lessons in the winter, as well as Camp Compo. For summer offerings, it’s advisable to sign on at exactly 9 a.m. on the day registration opens in March and type fast! (Nonresidents may enroll, from ten days prior to the start of programs, for an additional $20 fee.)

Stepping Stones changed the trajectory of my child's life. The caring staff were amazing, and I would recommend this program to anyone. —Kate L. TCS Preschool has been an amazing program for my family. They are committed to providing a fun, playbased learning environment, along with curriculum that highlights Jewish tradition and values. —Jennifer White

For info on beaches, Longshore, and Parks & Rec, visit: westportct. gov Wilton Parks & Rec wiltonct.org Weston Parks & Rec westonct.org

Continuing Education Westport Continuing Ed All kinds of sport camps (Sara Holland’s are popular for the wee ones), art, cooking, discovery camps and cool stuff for parents too! westportcontinuinged.com Wilton Continuing Ed wiltoncontinuinged.org Westport Weston Family YMCA Sports, dance, gymnastics, aquatics (including the popular summer Hafaday program), Camp Mahackeno, and special-needs programs. westporty.org Westport Library Our new state-of-the-art library is a sight to behold! Kids will love the Children’s Library and all the fun, educational classes, including Tummy Time and Toddler Mother Goose time for parents and their littlest kiddos. westportlibrary.org Earthplace A sixty-two-acre nature and wildlife sanctuary with over two miles of walking trails, fifty-plus resident animals including a Birds of Prey exhibit, an outdoor amphitheater, picnic grove and an indoor facility with interpretive exhibits. Yearround programs and summer camp. earthplace.org Wakeman Town Farm Cooking, baking and farming programs, including Little Farmers Mommy/Daddy and Me classes, Toddler Sprouts, and summer camps. wakemantownfarm.org Merwin Meadows Wilton’s town playground/ swimming pond is a treasure for children and families. wiltonct.org

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One River Art classes from age three, exploring drawing, painting, sculpture and mixed media; camps from kindergarten. westport. oneriverschool.com Splatterbox A kids arts studio offering weekly or drop-in classes and summer and vacation-week camps. splatterboxart.com

above: Learning about nature at Earthplace

Norwalk River Valley Trail This trail system runs through the beautiful woods of Wilton, providing a safe route for walking and biking from one part of town to another. nrvt-trail.com

Triple Threat Academy Acting and improv classes, film and stage productions, dance classes, private voice lessons, workshops with industry professionals. triplethreat.us

The Arts

DANCE

MUSIC

Dance Collective Kids dance classes from age 3. thedancecollectivect.com

Hartbeeps Sensory music classes for babies and toddlers. busylittlebee.com/activities/ hartbeeps Mary Ann Hall’s Music for Children Music classes that tell stories through song, dance, drama, rhythm and rhyme, with live guitar, ukulele, piano and voice accompaniment. musicforchildren.net Suzuki Music Schools Music classes from birth on, instrument programs, summer camps. suzukischools.org

Wilton Conservatory of Dance Dance classes from age 2.5, competition teams, camps, performance opportunities. conservatory-of-dance.com

Wilton Music Studios Private instrument and vocal lessons. wiltonmusicstudios.com

ART

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THEATER

Westport Little League Baseball Baseball and softball programs from pre-K. westportlittleleaguebaseball.com Weston Baseball & Softball Softball programs from K, baseball from age four. westonctbbsb.com

SPORTS

Wilton Little League Baseball for boys and girls from K. wiltonlittleleague.org

Westport PAL Flag and tackle football, lacrosse, basketball, track, rugby, wrestling, cheerleading. westportpal.org Westport Soccer Association Soccer team programs and clinics from pre-K. westportsoccer.org Weston Soccer Club Soccer programs and teams, from age two to three tots (caregiver on field). westonsoccer.com

Westport Academy of Dance Creative movement and dance classes from age 3, summer camps, annual Nutcracker and other performances. westportdance.com

Mickey Kydes Soccer Camps and clinics from age three to twelve. kydessoccer.com

Silvermine Arts Center Youth art classes from age seven, family workshops, summer classes and camps from age three. silvermineart.org

(Refer to Parks & Rec, Continuing Ed, and the YMCA above for more.)

The Spot Dance classes from age 3, large fully matted tumbling studio, competition teams. thespotjd.com

Wilton Soccer Soccer programs from tots/pre-K. wiltonsoccer.com

Weston Lacrosse Club Programs for girls and boys from K. westonlax.com Wilton Lacrosse Programs for girls and boys from grade 1. wiltonlax.org Peak Performance A variety of sports camps and classes, from age four. peakperformancesports.net Child’s Pose Yoga classes for toddlers (with caregivers) and preschool on up. childsposewestport.com

inside scoop

“This fall a GFNS parent is opening The Wonder in Westport. It’s a magical place that focuses on creative play for children and experiences for the whole family—think hunts for missing yetis and dinosaur bone digs, play space for kids and happy hours for parents too!”

MOCA Baby and toddler programs, kids art classes and camps from age four. mocawestport.org

—Christina McKay-DiChristina, director, Green’s Farms Nursery School

Music Theatre of Connecticut Acting and musical theater classes for kindergarten and up, mainstage productions, summer shows. musictheatreofct.com

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Service with a Smile TOP DENTISTS OF FAIRFIELD COUNTY 2022

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et ready to flash those pearly whites, because the 2022 Top Dentists guide is here. Fairfield County is home to a wealth of leading practitioners, so we’ve put together a list to help you select the right one. To find these elite Top Dentists, we relied on experts from DataJoe, a leading software and research company specializing in data collection and verification. The firm conducted a voting process, where dental professionals could vote for their peers and provide detailed evaluations. Final selections were made after careful examination of credentials and past records with state academies and dental boards. If you’re looking for a family practice, want a cosmetic procedure or just need to fix an overbite, this list has the right expert to suit your needs. »

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Service with a Smile TOP DENTISTS OF FAIRFIELD COUNTY

COSMETIC DENTISTRY EFREN CORTES

Distinctive Dental Service 29 Imperial Avenue, Westport 203-222-1444 distinctivedentalservice.net

EDWARD PAUL

161 East Avenue, Suite 202, Norwalk 203-838-3938 norwalkdentistoffice.com

DENNIS L. PIPHER

Endodontic Associates of Norwalk 120 East Ave, Suite 3E, Norwalk 203-635-6300 rootcanalnorwalk.com

VEENA RAMESH

35 West Broad Street, Unit 326, Stamford

ALAN B. ROSENTHAL

2600 Post Road, Southport 203-256-8900

Dental Specialists of Connecticut 120 East Avenue, Norwalk 203-853-0880 dentalspecialistsct.com

LUPO VILLEGA

ALLEN J. ROSENTHAL

MICHAEL J. REYNOLDS

Main Street Advanced Dental & Cosmetics 209 Main Street, Danbury 203-730-2917 mainstreetadvanced dental.com

ENDODONTICS BRIAN AMOROSO

259 Stillson Road, Fairfield 203-333-3636 amorosoendo.com

Advanced Endodontics & Microsurgery of Stamford 44 Strawberry Hill Avenue, Suite 5, Stamford 203-324-9239 stamfordendo.com

IVAN WEINSTEIN

57 North Street, Suite 122a, Danbury 203-791-0043

IRENE WONG

1500 Summer Street, Stamford 203-720-6732

Fairfield Endodontics 999 Summer Street, Suite 301, Stamford 203-325-3636 fairfieldendo.com

ALEXANDRA BYRNE

JOSEPH A. ZERELLA

ALBERT BONANNO

5 Eversley Avenue, Norwalk 203-803-1849

TRISHA CHARLAND

Zerella Endodontics 21 Sherman Court, Fairfield 203-553-9700 zerellaendo.com

EVAN D. CHRISTENSEN

Fairfield Shore Endodontics 61 Sherman Street, Suite E, Fairfield 203-255-3636 fairfieldrct.com

ANJANETTE W. GJERTSEN

Zerella Endodontics 21 Sherman Court, Fairfield 203-553-9700 zerellaendo.com

GENERAL DENTISTRY DANIEL ABRAMOV

DeJesus Dental Group 4131 Main Street, Bridgeport 203-372-1220

ERVIN V. AGABABAEV

10 Berkeley Street, Suite 4, Norwalk 203-899-1636 microendoct.com

Quality Dental 550 Connecticut Avenue, Norwalk 203-855-7556 qualitydentalct.com

AGNES HERCEG

ASHFAQ AHMAD

Advanced Endodontics & Microsurgery of Stamford 44 Strawberry Hill Avenue, Suite 5, Stamford 203-324-9239 stamfordendo.com

CAROLYN KILBRIDE

Endodontic Associates of Norwalk 120 East Avenue, Suite 3E, Norwalk 203-635-6300 rootcanalnorwalk.com

IVAN NEDELTCHEV

Ridgefield Endodontics 22 Prospect Street, Ridgefield 203-244-5308 ridgefieldendo.com

New Smile Dental 890 Ethan Allen Highway, Ridgefield 203-403-3110 newsmiledentalct.com

STEVEN ALTMAN

ROBERT ARBUCKLE

Dental Associates of Connecticut 36 Padanaram Road, Danbury 203-748-5717 dentalassociates.us

JAMES T. ARIS

Advanced Dentistry of Wilton 436 Danbury Road, Wilton 203-762-5100 drjamesaris.com

KENNETH N. BRODER

MEHRAN AZAR

JEFFREY CAHN

144 Morgan Street, Suite 5, Stamford 203-327-1167 drkenbroder.com

Connecticut Dental Group 4699 Main Street, Suite 203, Bridgeport 203-372-4200 connecticutdentalgroup. com

1290 Summer Street, Suite 3400, Stamford 203-666-2819 stamfordsleepdentistry.com

LEILA CHAHINE

Dental Wellness and Health 16 Hospital Avenue, Suite 403, Danbury 203-744-1814 dentalwellnessandhealth. com

JEFFREY BABUSHKIN Cosmetic & Preventive Dentistry 888 White Plains Road, Trumbull 203-268-5881 cpdentistry.com Cosmetic & Preventive Dentistry 888 White Plains Road, Trumbull 203-268-5881 cpdentistry.com

555 Newfield Avenue, Stamford 203-324-9800 stamfordsmile.com

MARK CONLON

Trumbull Dental Arts 160 Hawley Lane, Suite 101, Trumbull 203-377-0638 trumbulldentist.com

CYNTHIA BARTOLONE

2150 Black Rock Turnpike, Fairfield 203-333-2060

ALEJANDRA COSTANTINO-FINIASZ

TATIANA BARTON

144 Morgan Street, Suite 6, Stamford 203-327-7390 tatianabartondds stamfordct.com

The Stein Dental Group 1081 Hope Street, Stamford 203-329-8444 thesteindentalgroup.com

DAVID COWIN

JOHN BENUSIS

CT Braces 53 North Street, Danbury 203-778-4153 ctbraces.com

68 West Avenue, Danbury 203-744-1712

JANETTE BLACK

69 Sherman Street, Fairfield 203-255-1545 drscullyandblack.com

SANDRA BOGDON

THOMAS ANZALONE

62 Briar Woods Trail, Stamford 203-322-5153

PETER DANTINI

Dantini Dental 12 Camp Avenue, Stamford 203-322-5397 dentistdds.com

35 East Main Street, Westport 203-227-4821

VINCENT B. DEFINA

Devine Dental 4 Dearfield Drive, Suite 202, Greenwich 203-629-9009 dentistofgreenwich.com

MILES BONOM

PHILLIP DEJESUS

DeJesus Dental Group 4131 Main Street, Bridgeport 203-372-1220 dejesusdental.com

JENNIFER BOYCE

60 Lafayette Street, Bridgeport 203-576-4712

4699 Main Street, Suite 101, Bridgeport 203-368-9016

BARBARA J. DEVINE

Devine Dental 4 Dearfield Drive, Suite 202, Greenwich 203-629-9009 dentistofgreenwich.com

MARK S. DEWAELE

Advanced Dentistry of New Canaan 208 South Avenue, New Canaan 203-966-5944 newcanaanctdental.com

ROBERT EMILIO

RICHARD A. EPSTEIN

Newtown Family Dentistry 172 Mt. Pleasant Road, Newtown 203-426-0045 newtownctdentist.com

ALAN BARR

CARL DELUCIA

CRAIG CLABAUGH

DEIDRE M. CONDON

39 Hoyt Street, Stamford 203-353-9504 hayleybarocasdmd.com

122 West Norwalk Road, Norwalk 203-855-8877

Elke Cheung Dentistry 43 North Avenue, Norwalk 203-846-0400 drcheungsmiles.com 1177 Summer Street, 2nd floor, Stamford 203-327-2540

HAYLEY L. BAROCAS

SANTO DELALLO

Robert Emilio & Associates Cosmetic & Family Dentistry 111 East Avenue, Suite 214, Norwalk 203-866-7164 robertemiliodds.com

ELKE CHEUNG

TARA BABUSHKIN

Greenwich Dental Group 18 Field Point Road, Greenwich 203-869-3984 greenwichdentalgroup.com Integrity Dental of Greenwich 235 Glenville Road, 2nd Floor, Greenwich 203-531-5595 integritydentalgreenwich. com

GERALD S. BRAUN

Wilton Dental Care 134 Old Ridgefield Road, Wilton 203-762-8586 wiltondentalcare.com

The Family Dentist 329 Riverside Avenue, Westport 203-227-3709 thefamilydentist.com

ELIOT ESSENFELD

Vanlang & Essenfeld Family Dentistry 53 Old Kings Highway North, Darien 203-655-8887 dariendentists.com

WILLIAM FESSLER

William Fessler Family Dentistry 116 East Avenue, Norwalk 203-838-3939 wfesslerdds.com

ANTHONY T. FESTA

New Canaan Dental Care 116 South Avenue, New Canaan 203-966-9696 newcanaandentalcare.com

KATHERINE FINKEL

Fairfield Dental Associates 1979 Post Road, Fairfield 203-255-2841 fairfielddentalassociates.com

SCOTT FISHER

4 Dearfield Drive, Suite 206, Greenwich 203-869-2929

CAMILLO L. FONTANA

Fontana Family Dental Care 1100 Kings Highway East, Suite 3A, Fairfield 203-333-4700 fontanafamilydentalcare.com

ADAM J. FREEMAN

Westport Dental Associates 329 Riverside Avenue, Westport

203-227-3709 westportdental.com

BRIAN FUSILLO

Dental Associates of Connecticut 2397 Black Rock Turnpike, Fairfield 203-372-8961 dentalassociates.us

ROBERT GALELLA

Dental Associates of Connecticut 36 Padanaram Road, Danbury 203-748-5717 dentalassociates.us

PETER GARDELL

999 Summer Street, Stamford 203-975-0633

MARILYN GENI

Imperial Dental Associates 15 Imperial Avenue, Westport 203-227-2520 imperialdentalassociates. com

MICHAEL GENTILE

49 Lake Avenue, Suite 203, Greenwich 203-869-2090 michaelgentiledds.com

TAHA GHOMI

Dental Associates of Connecticut 36 Padanaram Road, Danbury 203-748-5717 dentalassociates.us

PAMELA GIBSON

Southport Family Dental 10 John Street, Southport 203-255-5142 southportfamilydental.com

CAROLINA GIRALDO

All Smiles 761 Main Avenue, Suite 111, Norwalk 203-275-0373 allsmilesct.com

RISHI GOGATE

Dearfield Family Dentistry 90 Dearfield Drive, Greenwich 203-717-1717 dearfielddentistry.com

ELIKA GOLARA

888 White Plains Road, Trumbull 203-261-5000

LLOYD GOLDBERG

160 East Avenue, Norwalk 203-838-3161

DANIELLE GOODWIN

Goodwin Dental 31 River Road, Suite 300, Cos Cob 203-869-2552 dgoodwindds.com

ANGELO GUERRERA 2979 Madison Avenue, Bridgeport

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203-372-7700 guerreradentistry.com

CLIVE HAMILTON

Kamlic Dental Center 45 Vincellette Street, Bridgeport 203-372-3800 kamlicdental.com

PAUL HARBOTTLE

SUZANNE KNOX

12 Chapel Place, Danbury 203-794-0464

MASHA KOGAN

Dental Center of Westport 175 Post Road West, Westport 203-227-8700 dentalcenterwestport.com

NED L. MCEWAN

McLean Smiles 23 Hoyt Street, Suite 2, Stamford 203-327-6717 mcleansmiles.com

EDWARD KOZINN

961 Huntington Turnpike, Bridgeport 203-372-6640 drkozinn.com

WILLIAM MCPADDEN

MATTHEW HERBSTMAN

LEONARD KUNDEL

WAYNE A. MICHALKA

ANN HOGAN

Esthetique Dentistry 26 Strawberry Hill Avenue, Suite 2F, Stamford 203-348-9338 esthetiquedentistry.com

MATTHEW J. IWINSKI

45 Pine Street, Suite 1A, New Canaan 203-966-5606 matthewjiwinskidds.com

AARTI JAWA

88 Maple Tree Avenue, Unit E, Stamford 203-323-5439

DANA C. JONES

Ridgefield Perfect Smile Center 162 Danbury Road, Ridgefield 203-438-8919 danajonesdds.com

THOMAS J. KAHL

Danbury Hospital Dental Services 70 Main Street, Danbury 203-739-8100 findcare.nuvancehealth.org

RICHARD L. KALMANS 90 Morgan Street, Suite 305, Stamford 203-423-8197 kalmansdental.com

MICHAEL KAPNER

153 East Avenue, Norwalk 203-866-2886 michaelkapnerdds.com

PAUL J. KEATING

196 Danbury Road, Wilton 203-762-5048 pauljkeatingdmd.com

MATTHEW KIM

High Ridge Family Dental 838 High Ridge Rd, Suite 202, Stamford 203-322-5153 highridgedental.com

JONATHAN KNAPP 1 Diamond Avenue, Bethel 203-748-6935

1867 Summer Street, Stamford 203-487-6020 stamforddentist.com

MARYANN LEHMANN 5 Brook Street, Suite 1B, Darien 203-655-0021 maldds.com

MICHAEL LEVIN

Levin Dental 1171 East Putnam Avenue, Suite 1D, Riverside 203-637-5252 doclevindds.com

SUSAN LEVINE

52 Beach Road, Suite 203, Fairfield 203-259-7073

JAN LINHART

Linhart Dentistry 40 East Putnam Avenue, Cos Cob 203-661-2279 drlinhart.com

ZACHARY LINHART

Linhart Dentistry 40 East Putnam Avenue, Cos Cob 203-661-2279 drlinhart.com

MICHAEL MACK

40 East Putnam Avenue, Cos Cob 203-661-2279

JOSE MADERA

Dental Care of Norwalk 160 East Avenue, Norwalk 203-866-9254 drmadera.com

IVAN MAKAR

MAMTA PATEL

Stamford Dental Spa 124 Broad Street, Stamford 203-324-7777 stamforddentalspa.com

COLIN PECH

Darien Center for Dentistry 36 Old Kings Highway South, Darien 203-655-0667 dariendds.com

DANIEL N. MINCHIK

HAMED MOGHADDAM MGM Family Dental 2690 East Main Street, Bridgeport 203-612-6079 mgmfamilydental.com

85 North Street, Suite 2, Danbury 203-748-2433 josephvmooneydmd.com

Comprehensive Dental Group 999 Summer St, Suite 400, Stamford 203-359-3296 compdentalgroup.com

EHUD OPPENHEIMER

SCOTT SOLOMONS

251 Long Ridge Road, Stamford 203-348-1632

DAVID A. ROSH

1450 Washington Boulevard, Stamford 203-359-2244 davidaroshdmd.com

ZACHARY ROTH

Sweet Smiles 432 Main Street, Danbury 203-748-2606 sweetdentistdanbury.com

VANDANA SONI

The Stein Dental Group 1081 Hope Street, Stamford 203-329-8444 thesteindentalgroup.com

MICHAEL STEIN

495 Connecticut Avenue, Norwalk 203-838-3321 pivornorwalkdentist.com

THOMAS SANTANIELLO

JOSEPH P. SUAREZ

DONALD POGODA

Schinto Dental 2001 West Main Street, Suite 110, Stamford 203-978-1184 schintodental.com

COLLEEN RANDALL

Southport Family Dental 10 John Street, Southport 203-255-5142 southportfamilydental.com

Advanced Implant and Cosmetic Dentistry 1275 Post Road, Suite 217, Fairfield 203-576-1918 pallaydental.com

Mondovi Dental 115 Technology Drive, Suite C203, Trumbull 203-261-8674

KEITH RUDOLPH

Comprehensive Dental Group 999 Summer St, Suite 400, Stamford 203-359-3296 compdentalgroup.com

DANIEL J. PALLAY

SAUL SLOAN

DAVID R. STEBBINS

IRINA K. POGOSIAN

40 East Putnam Avenue, Cos Cob 203-869-3340

1411 Black Rock Turnpike, Fairfield 203-384-6389

Simi Family Dentistry 105A Newtown Road, Danbury 203-744-7377 drsimidentist.com

Dental Care of Stamford 1500 Summer Street, Stamford 203-883-4433 dentalcarestamford.com

8 West End Avenue, Old Greenwich 203-637-0554

WERUCHE OKONKWO

JOSEPH ROMANELLI

BOGDAN VLAD SIMIONESCU

NAMI SONG

JEFFREY M. PIVOR

THOMAS M. OHLSON

225 Main Street, Suite 304, Westport 203-227-6338 mywestportdentist.com

8 School Street, Bethel 203-792-7370 bethelgeneraldentist.com

JON ROSENBLITT

Perimenis Dental Group 105 Technology Drive, Trumbull 203-459-8990 perimenisdentalgroup. com

6500 Main Street, Trumbull 203-261-8749 jasonoberhanddds.com

MARK S. ROISMAN

ANTON J. SILICH

PETER M. PERIMENIS

TYLER J. PERIMENIS

JASON R. OBERHAND

Esthetic Dental Group of Westport 327 Riverside Avenue, Westport 203-227-3421 edgw.us

1290 Summer Street, Suite 3400, Stamford 203-614-9781 smilesct.com

Dental Associates of Connecticut 36 Padanaram Road, Danbury 203-748-5717 dentalassociates.us

Perimenis Dental Group 105 Technology Drive, Trumbull 203-459-8990 perimenisdentalgroup. com

Michael Nocerino & Associates 1809 Black Rock Turnpike, Fairfield 203-335-4413 michaelnocerinodds.com

STEVEN REGENSTEIN

EDWARD SHUKOVSKY

Romano Dental 2240 Madison Avenue, Bridgeport 203-372-0881 romanodental.com

RORY PERIMENIS

MICHAEL NOCERINO

Merritt Family Dental 999 Summer Street, Suite 306, Stamford 203-356-9990 stamfordfamilydentist.com

FRANK J. ROMANO

Perimenis Family Dental Practice 77 Glenbrook Road, Stamford 203-348-1555 perimenisdental.com

JOSEPH V. MOONEY

PRASANNA RAVURI

DAVID A. PEREIRA

Dental Arts of Darien 800 Post Road, 3rd Floor, Darien 203-656-8079 dentalartsofdarien.com

148 East Avenue, Norwalk 203-866-4532 drminchik.com

MICHAEL M. MAKSYMIUK

93 West Street, Suite 6, Danbury 203-424-2100 jaymarksdmd.com

Danbury Dental Services 17 Thorpe Street Ext., Danbury 203-263-9199 danburydentalservices.com

Commerce Park Cosmetic Dentistry 4699 Main Street, Suite 200, Bridgeport 203-372-3726 commerceparkcosmetic dds.com

Amazing Smiles General & Family Dentistry 148 East Ave, Suite 1B, Norwalk 203-939-1616 amazingsmilesnorwalk.com

JAY M. MARKS

JAGAT PATEL

135 Anton Street, Bridgeport 203-371-6586

Makar Dental 99 Prospect Street, Stamford 203-274-5643 makardental.com MaxDental 151 Old Ridgefield Road, Wilton 203-762-9480 maxdental.org

555 Newfield Ave, Suite D, Stamford 203-666-2777 drkalindipandya.com

JACKQUELINE MCLEAN

New Canaan Dentistry 162 East Avenue, New Canaan 203-972-0588 paulharbottle.com Dental Associates of Connecticut 36 Padanaram Road, Danbury 203-748-5717 dentalassociates.us

KALINDI PANDYA

36 Hoyt St, Stamford 203-323-5820 mcewandds.com

PETER RATHMAN

125 Strawberry Hill Avenue, Suite 204, Stamford 203-327-1470

140 Sherman Street West, Suite 3A, Fairfield 203-254-9533 drkeithrudolph.com 16 River Street, Norwalk 203-866-8779

JOHN J. SCHINTO III

JASON SCULLY

69 Sherman Street, Fairfield 203-255-1545 drscullyandblack.com

CAROLINE SHENKER

Perfect Smiles of Fairfield 60 Katona Drive, Suite 20, Fairfield 203-366-7655 perfectsmilesoffairfield.com

FRANCIS SHIN

25 Valley Drive, 2nd Floor, Greenwich 203-625-0301 valleygreenwichdental.com

148 East Avenue, Suite 3J, Norwalk 203-866-0415 davidstebbinsdmd.com The Stein Dental Group 1081 Hope Street, Stamford 203-329-8444 thesteindentalgroup.com 153 East Avenue, Norwalk 203-838-9997 josephsuarezdds.com

MARK SUTTON

Greenwich Dentistry 391 East Putnam Avenue, Cos Cob 203-869-2066 greenwichdentistry.com

JAMES S. TAGLIARINI

Quality Dental of Danbury 53 North Street, Danbury 203-792-4291 danburycosmeticdentist.net

JEFFREY A. TAMUCCI 5 Eversley Avenue, 2nd Floor, Norwalk 203-853-0669 tamuccidds.com

DENNIS TEEKING

Pleasant Dental 184 Mt. Pleasant Road, Newtown

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203-426-0500 pleasantdental.net

203-399-0707 smilesensations.com

KENNETH TEMPLE

DAVID C. WRIGHT

Valleywood Medical Building, 40 East Putnam Avenue, Cos Cob 203-622-4243

DAVID J. THIBAULT

15 Commerce Road, Suite 2, Stamford 203-965-7795 davidthibaultdmd.com

ROSABEL TOBAR

Cordial Family Dental 37 Wall Street, Norwalk 203-354-3771 cordialdental.com

ADRIANA TORENA

Allure Dental Group 4699 Main Street, Suite 101, Bridgeport 203-368-9016 dentistryfairfield.com

ROBERT N. TRAMPOSCH Greenwich Smiles 25 Valley Drive, Greenwich 203-862-9000 greenwichsmiles.com

DOUGLAS M. TREPP

The Town Practice 500 West Putnam Avenue, 4th Floor, Greenwich 203-869-9252 thetownpractice.com

GEORGE TSANGAROULIS

4 Dearfield Drive, Suite G2, Greenwich 203-869-4755 greenwichfamilydental.com

QUYNHCHI VAN LANG

Vanlang & Essenfeld Family Dentistry 53 Old Kings Highway North, Darien 203-655-8887 dariendentists.com

MARK WALDMAN

Darien Dental Associates 106 Noroton Avenue, Darien 475-253-5919 dentist-darien.com

STEVE WECHSLER

The Stein Dental Group 1081 Hope Street, Stamford 203-329-8444 thesteindentalgroup.com

ERNEST WHITTLE

284 Sound Beach Avenue, Old Greenwich 203-637-4660 doctorwhittle.com

DAVID WOHL

Center for Aesthetic and Comprehensive Dentistry 111 Beach Road, Fairfield 203-255-4001 drdavidwohl.com

STEPHEN H. WOLPO

Smile Sensations 60 Strawberry Hill Avenue, Suite L2, Stamford

33 Seminary Street, New Canaan 203-966-2323 davidwrightdmd.com

YINGJIE LISA WU

Dental Permanente of Stamford 868 East Main Street, Stamford 203-324-3245 dentalpermanente.com

MASIS YETERIAN JR.

My Creative Dentist 211 East Putnam Avenue, Suites 2-6, Cos Cob 203-869-2884 dentist-greenwich.com

EDWARD J. ZACK 144 Morgan Street, Suite 4, Stamford 203-967-3571 ezdental.us

Associated Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons 107 Newtown Road, Suite 1A, Danbury 203-797-0012 aomspc.com

SIMON Y. BANGIYEV

Premier Oral Surgery 346 Main Avenue, Suite H, Norwalk 203-939-9390 premieroralsurgeryct.com

MICHELE S. BERGEN

Infinity Oral Surgery 49 Lake Ave, Suite LL4, Greenwich 203-661-4231 infinityoralsurgery.com

Stamford Oral & Maxillofacial Surgical Arts 27 Bridge Street, Stamford 203-325-2661 stamfordoms.com

MARK J. FLETCHER

BRETT ZUCKMAN

VASILIKI KARLI

Maxillofacial Surgery of Greenwich 4 Dearfield Drive, Suite 205, Greenwich 203-717-1222 maxfacsgreenwich.com

MARSHALL KURTZ

ANTHONY J. CAMILLO

ALAN R. RISSOLO

PATRICIA A. BENDICK Fairfield Orthodontic Associates 111 Beach Road, Fairfield 203-256-9500 fairfieldorthodontic associates.com

THOMAS BRAUN

Braun Orthodontics 427 Stillson Road, Fairfield 203-374-0512 braunorthodontics.com

Oral Surgeons Associates

Embrace Orthodontics 24 Imperial Avenue, Westport 203-227-6061 westportortho.com

Orthodontic Boutique of Connecticut 24 Old Kings Highway South, Suite 101, Darien 203-590-6776 orthodonticboutique.com Fairfield County Orthodontics 1275 Post Road, Suite 211, Fairfield 203-292-6644 bracesfairfield.com

MICHAEL MONTANARO Montanaro Orthodontics 5294 Park Avenue, Bridgeport 203-371-0119 montanaroorthodontics. com

VICTOR PARDI

AUSTIN W. FEENEY

45 Pine Street, New Canaan 203-966-3042 feeneysmiles.com

Children’s Dentistry and Orthodontics of Greenwich 1212 East Putnam Avenue, Riverside 203-698-0794 childrensdentistryand orthodontics.com

PETER FEIBISH

M. BINA PARK

Dental Care of Stamford 1500 Summer Street, Stamford 203-883-4433 dentalcarestamford.com

ROBERT GALLOIS

Dr. Gallois Orthodontics 125 Strawberry Hill Avenue, Stamford 203-348-7571 galloisortho.com

Dental Associates of Connecticut 32 Church Hill Road, Suite 201, Newtown 203-270-4586 dentalassociates.us

Baydur Orthodontics 1817 Black Rock Turnpike, Fairfield 203-333-0050 drbaydur.com

PHILIP F. PACELLI III

The Stein Dental Group 1081 Hope Street, Stamford 203-329-8444 thesteindentalgroup.com

ORTHODONTICS

FIGEN BAYDUR

Norwalk Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery 148 East Ave, Suite 2J, Norwalk 203-866-0061 norwalkoms.com

ALIKA L. CREW

STEVE GIANNOUTSOS

Baum Braces 23 Church Hill Road, Newtown 203-426-5900 baumbraces.com

KEVIN S. MCLAUGHLIN

FERNANDA MARCHI

Greenwich Braces 4 Dearfield Drive, Greenwich 203-869-2044 greenwichbraces.com

Greenwich Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery Associates 23 Maple Avenue, Greenwich 203-661-5858 greenwichoralsurgery.com

JOSHUA E. BAUM

Greater Connecticut Oral & Dental Implant Surgery 129 Park Avenue, Danbury 203-790-0183 greaterctoralsurgery.com

TIFFANY MADISON CHRISTENSEN

THOMAS B. WILSON

Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery Center of Stamford 90 Morgan Street, Suite 207, Stamford 203-327-9966 oralsurgeryofstamford.com

Oral Surgery Associates 4747 Main Street, Bridgeport 203-371-5595 oralsurgeryassociatesct. com

LUBNA KHAN

Westwalk Orthodontic Group 1460 Post Road East, Suite 9, Westport 203-349-6775 westwalkortho.com

EMILY DRIESMAN

ROBERT M. YUDELL

ROBERT HORNE

STEVE CAGLIOSTRO

Greenwich Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery Associates 23 Maple Avenue, Greenwich 203-661-5858 greenwichoralsurgery.com Greenwich Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery Associates 23 Maple Avenue, Greenwich 203-661-5858 greenwichoralsurgery.com

The Facial Surgery Center 115 Technology Drive, Suite B101, Trumbull 203-261-7800 drflorio.com

Fairfield Oral Surgery 760 Kings Highway West, Building B, Southport 203-259-2227 fairfieldoralsurgery.com Associated Oral &

JOSEPH F. WALLACE

NAUSHAD EDIBAM

New Canaan Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery 166 Cherry Street, Suite A, New Canaan 203-226-8000 newcanaanoralsurgery.com

TODD E. BLOOM

Norwalk Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery 148 East Avenue, Suite 2J, Norwalk 203-866-0061 norwalkoms.com

Dental Care of Stamford 1500 Summer Street, Stamford 203-883-4433 dentalcarestamford.com

SALVATORE J. FLORIO

ROGER S. BADWAL

MICHAEL F. TROFA

ROOLS DESSIEUX

GARRICK ALEX

Oral Surgery Associates 4747 Main Street, Bridgeport 203-371-5595 oralsurgeryassociatesct. com

Ridgefield Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery 10 South Street, Suite 202, Ridgefield 203-403-3686 ridgefieldoralsurgery.com

Northeast Implant & Oral Surgery 27 Hospital Avenue, Suite 203, Danbury 203-797-0008 neimplantandoralsurgery. com

OrthoConnecticut 761 Main Avenue, Norwalk 203-845-2200 myorthoct.com

ABED ALKHATIB

STEVEN SMULLIN

CHRISTOPHER J. CUOMO

ORAL & MAXILLOFACIAL SURGERY Greenwich Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery Associates 23 Maple Avenue, Greenwich 203-661-5858 greenwichoralsurgery. com

10 Mott Avenue, Suite 4B, Norwalk 203-853-0500 norwalkdentalimplant.com

Maxillofacial Surgeons 107 Newtown Road, Suite 1A, Danbury 203-797-0012 aomspc.com

Georgetown Orthodontics 73 Redding Road, Georgetown 203-902-8671 georgetownorthodontics.com

AARON GILMAN

ROBERT B. GOLDMAN

Goldman Orthodontic Arts 1200 High Ridge Road, Stamford 203-329-2712 goldmanorthodontics.com

EROL GUND

Dental Associates of Connecticut 36 Padanaram Road, Danbury 203-748-8055 dentalassociates.us

SCOTT KESSELMAN

Riverside Orthodontics 1171 E Putnam Avenue, Building 2, Riverside 203-450-4969 riversideortho.net

Dr. Bina Park Orthodontics 42 Sherwood Place, Greenwich 203-900-1111 drbinapark.com

MARY RITTER

Commerce Park Children’s Dentistry & Orthodontics 4702 Main Street, Bridgeport 203-371-8282 commerceparkdental.com

ROSEMARY RYAN

Greenwich Braces 4 Dearfield Drive, Greenwich 203-869-2044 greenwichbraces.com

CRISTIAN STANESCU

12 Belden Avenue, Norwalk 203-286-7972

MONICA TEREDESAI

Smile Art Orthodontics 126 Old Ridgefield Road, Wilton 203-210-7375 smileartortho.com

GARRICK F. WONG

453 East Putnam Avenue, 2nd Floor, Cos Cob 203-625-9888 drgarrickfwong.com

PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY HANNAH AHN

Around the World Pediatric Dentistry 2001 West Main Street, Suite 235, Stamford 203-489-2112 aroundtheworldsmiles. com

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TOP DENTISTS OF FAIRFIELD COUNTY

DANIEL BREIN

Commerce Park Children’s Dentistry & Orthodontics 4702 Main Street, Bridgeport 203-371-8282 commerceparkdental.com

JESSICA CORRIEL

Commerce Park Children’s Dentistry & Orthodontics 4702 Main Street, Bridgeport 203-371-8282 commerceparkdental.com

MICHAEL CURTIS 11 Lafayette Drive, Trumbull 203-372-3726

JENNIFER EPSTEIN 87 Sasco Hill Road, Fairfield 203-255-6851

EMILY GABELERMANHEIMER

Greenwich Pediatric Dental Group 4 Dearfield Drive, Greenwich 203-422-5437 greenwichkidsdentist.com

ARIEL GINSBERG

Dental Care of Stamford 1500 Summer Street, Stamford 203-883-4433 dentalcarestamford.com

LAURA HULING

Dental Associates of Connecticut 32 Church Hill Road, Suite 201, Newtown 203-270-4586 dentalassociates.us

SILVESTRO IOMMAZZO

Children’s Dentistry and Orthodontics of Greenwich 1212 East Putnam Avenue, Riverside 203-698-0794 childrensdentistryand orthodontics.com

DURGESH KUDCHADKAR

Dental Care of Stamford 1500 Summer Street, Stamford 203-883-4433 dentalcarestamford.com

GORDON K. LEE

Westport Pediatric Dentistry 305 Post Road East, Westport 203-226-5500 zerocavityzone.com

LAWRENCE I. LIPTON

Children’s Dental Associates 3715 Main Street, Suite 301, Bridgeport 203-374-9429 childrensdentalassociates ct.com

MEENAKSHI MADHU

Greenwich Smiles 25 Valley Drive, Greenwich 203-862-9000 greenwichsmiles.com

GREGORY MOKOTOFF Kids First Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics 493 Westport Avenue, Norwalk 203-255-6851 kidsfirstdentistry.com

ANNA SIMONIS

New Canaan Pediatric Dentistry 65 Locust Avenue, Suite 10, New Canaan 203-594-9500 newcanaanpediatric dentistry.com

ANDREW SPADINGER

Commerce Park Children’s Dentistry & Orthodontics 4702 Main Street, Bridgeport 203-371-8282 commerceparkdental.com

GABRIELLE SYKOFF

Dental Care of Stamford 1500 Summer Street, Stamford 203-883-4433 dentalcarestamford.com

HIROSHI TSUYUKI

Dentistry for Children 149 East Avenue, Suite 21, Norwalk 203-838-4191 dentistryforchildrenct. com

LILIAN VIERA

Children’s Dental Care of Norwalk 10 Mott Avenue, Suite 4C, Norwalk 203-866-5020 childrensdentalcareof norwalkllc.com

STACY ZARAKIOTIS

Greenwich Pediatric Dental Group 4 Dearfield Drive, Greenwich 203-422-5437 greenwichkidsdentist.com

PERIODONTICS ROBERT CHUNG

Dental Associates of Connecticut 36 Padanaram Road, Danbury 203-748-5717 dentalassociates.us

JACK DEGRADO

Stamford Dental Group 47 Oak Street, Suite 220, Stamford 203-325-4700 stamforddentalgroup.com

TERENCE JACKSON

Periodontics & Implant Dentistry Center 47 Oak Street, Stamford 203-252-2252 stamfordperio.com

MARIE E. FALCONE

Dental Specialists of Darien 24 Old Kings Highway South, Darien 203-836-2744 dentalspecialistsof darien.com

SELMA KAPLAN

Periodontics & Dental Implants 10 Mott Avenue, Suite 4A, Norwalk 203-442-9554 norwalkperio.com Fairfield County Implants & Periodontics 1047 Old Post Road, Fairfield 203-254-2006 sonickdmd.com

Westport Dental Associates 329 Riverside Ave., Westport 203-227-3709 westportdental.com

BENJAMIN FRANK

Simi Family Dentistry 105 Newtown Road Suite G, Danbury 203-744-7377

GARY HORBLITT

2226 Black Rock Turnpike, Suite 201, Fairfield 203-335-1011 garyhorblittdds.com

STEPHEN J. KOWALCZYK SJK Dental Group 57 North Street, Suite 121, Danbury 203-744-7310 sjkdental.com

CHRISTINE LEE

Aesthetic Dentistry of Fairfield 2600 Post Road, Southport 203-259-7073 drchristinelee.com

BENEDICT RICH

6 Eversley Avenue, Norwalk 203-838-2588 benrich.com

STEVEN J. ROTHENBERG Dental Specialists of Darien 24 Old Kings Highway South, Darien 203-836-2744 dentalspecialistsof darien.com

The Methodology Behind the List To create our Top Dentists list, we relied on the experts from DataJoe, a leading software and research firm. Dental practitioners were chosen based on an online peer-voting process, which was facilitated by DataJoe. The final list is based on thousands of detailed evaluations of dental professionals.

JENNY MATHEWS

Jenny Mathews Periodontics 15 Roseville Road, Westport 203-227-8990 jennymathews-perio.com

SELECTION PROCESS Summary To create the list, the magazine contracted DataJoe Research to facilitate an online peer-voting process. DataJoe Research is a software and research company specializing in data collection and verification, and conducts various nominations across the United States on behalf of publishers. DataJoe checked and confirmed that each published winner had, at time of review, a current, active license status with the appropriate state regulatory board. If we were not able to find evidence of a dentist’s current, active registration with the state regulatory board, that dentist was excluded from the list. In addition, any dentist who has been disciplined for an infraction by the state regulatory board was excluded from the list. Finally, DataJoe presented the tallied result to the magazine for its final review and adjustments.

RANDALL NEICHIN

Dental Care of Stamford 1500 Summer Street, Stamford 203-883-4433 dentalcarestamford.com

RYAN PRICE

The Stein Dental Group 1081 Hope Street, Stamford 203-329-8444 thesteindentalgroup.com

MICHAEL SONICK

Fairfield County Implants & Periodontics 1047 Old Post Road, Fairfield 203-254-2006 sonickdmd.com

Final Note We recognize that there are many good dentists who are not shown in this representative list. This is only a sampling of the huge array of talented professionals within the region. Inclusion in the list is based on the opinions of responding dentists in the region. We take time and energy to ensure fair voting, although we understand that the results of this survey nomination are not an objective metric. We certainly do not discount the fact that many, many good and effective dentists may not appear on the list.

E.J. TRAYNOR

ALEXANDER VOLCHONOK

KIMBERLY A. FARRELL

Top Dentists

RUI MA

BRUCE K. DAVIDSON

Fairfield County Periodontics & Dental Implants 115 Technology Drive, Trumbull 203-459-1210 drdelibero.com

Norwalk Dental Arts 10 Mott Avenue, Suite 2C, Norwalk 203-854-9565 norwalkdentalarts.com

Periodontology Associates 10 Mott Avenue, Norwalk 203-853-1120

Traynor Periodontics & Implants 15 Valley Drive, Suite 302, Greenwich 203-661-5885 tpigreenwich.com

LAWRENCE DELIBERO

JOHN CORINO

DAVID GOTTLIEB

Periodontal Associates 4 Dearfield Drive, Greenwich 203-661-3733 ctperio.com 273 Post Rd West, Westport 203-226-7788 davidsonperio.com

PROSTHODONTICS

BIANCA FLORA

Disclaimers DataJoe uses best practices and exercises great care in assembling content for this list. DataJoe does not warrant that the data contained within the list are complete or accurate. DataJoe does not assume, and hereby disclaims, any liability to any person for any loss or damage caused by errors or omissions herein whether such errors or omissions result from negligence, accident, or any other cause. All rights reserved. No commercial use of the information in this list may be made without written permission from DataJoe.

AVPeriodontics 4 Dearfield Drive, Suite 104, Greenwich 203-803-1247 avperio.com

PERRY A. WASSERLAUF Fairfield Periodontics 71 Beach Road, Fairfield 203-255-7771 fairfieldperiodontics.com

Questions? For research/methodology questions, contact Chris Tumbaga, Researcher, at surveys@ datajoe.com.

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2022 Dental

PROFILES Reasons to Smile

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Did you know that having healthy teeth, mouth and gums plays a vital role in your overall health? Regular dental care will not only decrease your risk of gum disease, tooth decay and halitosis, but also major medical issues such as strokes and heart attacks. But finding the right dental professional can be a challenge, so we’ve made it easier for you. The following pages introduce some of Fairfield County’s most prominent experts who make your oral health a priority. Choose a trusted individual to provide you and your family with the utmost care you deserve. A happy smile is a healthy one.

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2022 | Dental PROFILES

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Dr. Jeffrey Tamucci is a graduate of Connecticut

Jeffrey A. Tamucci, DDS JEFFREY A. TAMUCCI, DDS 5 Eversley Avenue Norwalk, CT 203.853.0669 tamuccidds.com

approach when it comes to patients’ restorative needs. With an initial comprehensive treatment plan, Dr. Tamucci can sequence services, make necessary referrals and preview smile revisions using a digital workflow, with 3D printed models, photos or video simulations. Dr. Tamucci embraces technology, and has been using digital scanning equipment for over fifteen years. He introduced Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) as a diagnostic service in 2014. This equipment has allowed him to more thoroughly diagnose abnormalities or pathology with the help of a dental radiologist, analyze airway insufficiencies for patients susceptible to sleep apnea and be more communicative to oral surgeons and

periodontists when developing complex implant-supported replacement teeth for dental rehabilitations. He enjoys the case planning phase and is dedicated to a successful outcome for all patients who appreciate his caring way. He provides Invisalign®, fabricates “single visit crowns” when indicated and pursues selfimprovement through local and regional continuing education courses.

Dr. Emily Driesman and the incredible staff of Embrace Orthodontics have been providing families in Fairfield County superior orthodontic care for a decade. Growing from her original office in Westport, Dr. Emily Driesman (“Dr. Emily”), has now expanded her locations to include a second state of the art office in Stamford. With a passion for creating a comfortable atmosphere and a “concierge type practice,” Dr. Emily prides herself on not only creating beautiful, healthy and functional smiles, but also cultivating relationships with each patient she treats. Having grown up in Fairfield County, Dr. Emily can relate to her patients and truly loves practicing in the area she grew up, is

raising her two children, and is so fond of! At Embrace Orthodontics, Dr. Emily and her staff are committed to obtaining exceptional results using the latest technolgies including 3D diagnosis and treatment planning, iTero scanning, Damon Braces, Invisalign clear aligners and inBraces lingual braces. Dr. Emily is a boardcertified orthodontist, an accolade that only one third of her profession has been awarded. Dr. Emily Driesman is humbled to be voted by her peers five years in a row as one of Moffly Media’s Top Dentists. Embrace Orthodontics looks forward to welcoming new patients to the practice and giving them a reason to ‘Smile Big.’ Be sure to sure to check out our Instagram handle: @embrace.your.smile

College and Georgetown University School of Dentistry. He has been a family general practitioner providing comprehensive care to all of his patients since 1986. Born in Port Chester, New York, he observed his father, architect and general contractor, transform residential homes into beautiful structures. These experiences, as well as hands-on training from a gifted industrial arts teacher, helped him develop the visualization tools he still uses practicing dentistry. Using a Facially Driven Smile Design Protocol for his patients, he states, “These restorative transformations can help change people’s perception of themselves and their lives.” Dr. Tamucci utilizes a team

Emily Driesman, DDS EMBRACE ORTHODONTICS SPECIALTY: Orthodontics Westport Location: 24 Imperial Ave, Westport, CT 06880 Stamford Location: 61 Fourth Street, Stamford, CT 06905 203.227.6061 westportortho.com

ORGANIZATIONS • American Dental Association • Connecticut State Dental Association • Greater Norwalk Dental Society • Spear Study Group • Fairfield County Dental Club • Invisalign® Study Club • CEREC® Doctors

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2022 | Dental PROFILES

Where did you go to school? Joseph Wallace, D.D.S.: Georgetown University School of Dentistry; Washington Hospital Center—Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Residency Thomas Wilson, D.D.S., M.D.: Columbia University School of Dentistry; Columbia University School of Physicians and Surgeons; NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital— Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Residency; NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital—General Surgery Internship Brett Zuckman, D.M.D.: Temple University School of Dentistry; Lincoln Medical Center/Weill Cornell Medical College—Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Residency Garrick Alex, D.D.S., M.D.: M.D. from Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons; D.D.S. from Columbia University College of Dental Medicine - Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Residency, New York Presbyterian Hospital What distinguishes your practice? Founded in 1984, Greenwich Oral Surgery treats each patient with the care and attention that has come to be our hallmark. Each of our doctors is Board Certified by the American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery and holds memberships in many dental and medical organizations. Our doctors, with appointments to the staffs of Greenwich Hospital, NewYorkPresbyterian/Columbia University Medical Center, afford our patients the highest standard of care. Our patients have the advantage of the collaborative nature of our practice. Frequently, diagnostic consultations and surgical procedures can receive the attention of multiple members of our group. Our practice consists of three state-ofthe-art practices with a new location in Darien, CT. At least one of our doctors is available 24/7, 365 days per year. We are also proud to note that our doctors have been awarded Top Dentist status every year. What procedures does your practice provide? Some of the procedures offered are: dental implants, wisdom teeth extraction, bone grafting, pediatric procedures, TMJ treatments, reconstructive jaw surgery, facial trauma, oral pathology, and cosmetic procedures such as Botox® and fillers.

Joseph Wallace, D.D.S., Thomas Wilson, D.D.S., M.D., Brett Zuckman, D.M.D., Garrick Alex, D.D.S., M.D. GREENWICH ORAL SURGERY • DARIEN ORAL SURGERY SPECIALTY: Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Dental Implant Surgery 23 Maple Avenue, Greenwich, CT | 203.661.5858 3010 Westchester Avenue, Suite 306, Purchase, NY | 914.253.9088 6 Thorndal Circle, Darien, CT 06820 | 475-328-8500 greenwichoralsurgery.com | darienoralsurgery.com

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CELEBRATE YOUR WEDDING

AUTOMOTIVE Scap Chrysler Jeep........................................................................................ 27 Splash Car Wash............................................................................................83 ARCHITECTS, BUILDING & HOME IMPROVEMENT Robert A. Cardello Architects.........................................................................C3 California Closets............................................................................................. 7 Gault................................................................................................................. 5 Glen Gate ......................................................................................................... 9 Grand Entrance Gates ................................................................................... 39 JP McHale Pest Management........................................................................ 39 Ring's End......................................................................................................C4 The Post..........................................................................................................17 Westy Self Storage......................................................................................... 45 BUSINESS, LAWYERS & FINANCE Cummings & Lockwood – Greenwich.............................................................. 8 Law Offices of Gary I. Cohen.......................................................................... 41 Wiggin............................................................................................................ 45 EVENTS & ENTERTAINMENT Hartford HealthCare Amphitheater............................................................. 106 Levitt Pavilion.................................................................................................89 Light a Fire.....................................................................................................52 NYCWFF..........................................................................................................51 Smilow Cancer Ride Closer to Free............................................................... 49 Stamford's Best Bartender.......................................................................... 102 TMK Sports & Entertainment Health Expo.................................................... 33 Weston Fine Arts Festival............................................................................... 47 Westport Country Playhouse.........................................................................54 Westport Museum for History and Culture.................................................... 12 FASHION Apricot Lane................................................................................................... 21

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

MISCELLANEOUS

Send Information to: Diane.Sembrot@moffly.com Westport Magazine | 205 Main Street Westport, CT 06880

A-List.............................................................................................................. 96 Bob Capazzo.................................................................................................... 8 Big Picture Photography.............................................................................. 106 Breast Cancer Alliance...................................................................................49 Drew Klotz........................................................................................................ 6 Earth Animal................................................................................................... 37 JULY/AUGUST 2022 WESTPORT

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postscript

JULY/AUGUST 2022 / DONNA MOFFLY

“When smoldering worms of red-hot ash rained down onto the deck, we were out of there fast.”

oom, it’s July! Time for fireworks in celebration of our nation’s independence. Fireworks have lit up my life for a long, long time—since age six when Charlie Ten, owner of the restaurant where my parents had courted in Cleveland, started inviting our family to Chinatown for their New Year’s festivities. My brothers and I were always thrilled to go home with little red and gold envelopes stuffed with dollar bills. In my teens, some friends and I got permission to take Tom Bernhardy in his rolling bed up to the roof of Huron Road Hospital to watch the fireworks display going on at the Cleveland Stadium. The Georgetown football player had been paralyzed in a diving accident but never lost his spirit. He sure enjoyed the show and especially the beer we snuck him that night. As newlyweds, Jack and I were invited to a Fourth of July party by sailing buddy Newbold Smith and his wife, Peggy. Recruited to help set off fireworks, Jack learned the hard way not to put a three-inch rocket in a five-inch launching tube. Peggy’s father, Henry B. duPont (H.B.), who was deaf as a post, wandered the field with rockets exploding head high; and a rack toppled over, sending them streaking down the hill into the crowd. Miraculously, no one was hurt. On a visit to Canada, my scofflaw husband drove illegal pyrotechnics back across the border tucked inside the blankie little Audrey was holding while she sucked her thumb. Later, when she and Jen Garb were in grade school, we went on a mother-daughter trip to Chinatown in New York, armed with a detailed shopping list from Audrey’s big brother Jonathan. Phyllis Garb was an old hand at buying fireworks, so we were ready when a man saddled up to us on a street corner, asking

if we wanted any. We slipped him the list, some cash and waited nervously for twenty minutes until he showed up with a brown bag bulging with Roman candles, bottle rockets, ladyfingers and bricks of firecrackers. On a trip West, with me behind the wheel of a Pace Arrow RV, our teenagers could hardly wait for their father to fall asleep with his ulcer so we could stop for fireworks in Utah— sold out of giant silos painted red to look like firecrackers. (Those Mormons don’t smoke or drink but, boy, they love pyrotechnics.) The kids hid them in the shower until we arrived at the R Lazy S Ranch in Wyoming, where clever wranglers talked their young guests into putting on a big show for their parents. Beat trying to smuggle the stuff home on the plane. In our Riverside neighborhood, we used to have the Willowmere picnic just before the Fourth of July fireworks in Binney Park. The trick was to get back to the keg of leftover beer before the high-school types took off with it. With the arrival of our sailboat, Purple Tiger, Jack and I started enjoying our town fireworks from the water. Once we dropped the hook beside Calf Island, not realizing that they were being set off right there. When smoldering worms of red-hot ash rained down onto the deck, we were out of there fast. Sometimes we spent the night rafted with other boats over in Oyster Bay, where a wellheeled gentleman traditionally put on a not-so-private display of fireworks launched out of two barges anchored off his front yard. No question, Long Island Sound is a great place to marvel at the bursts of color along its coastlines on Independence Day. It’s also peaceful out there in the dark—a good time to reflect on our amazing nation, where it’s been and where it’s going. That, of course, is what the Fourth of July is all about. Have a happy one!

VENTURE PHOTOGRAPHY, GREENWICH, CT

OF FIREWORKS AND FUN B

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Westport Weston & Wilton July/August 2022

Articles inside

STATUS REPORT

POSTSCRIPT

EDITOR’S LETTER