Westport November/December 2024 by Moffly Media

FRAMEBRIDGE

Opens a Picturesque New Store

STARTUP

WESTPORT’S

Susan and Noah Fenn’s Love Letter to Westport

Abby Dixon’s Focus on Maternal Mental Health at THE JOYWELL

A WINNING FORMULA

ESPN Chairman Jimmy Pitaro on transforming the sports industry, innovations in streaming and the suggestion of succession at Disney ON A MISSION

Our 2024 Light a Fire Recipients Revealed FIERCELY OUTSPOKEN

5 Women Changing The Face of Philanthropy NEW AND NOTEWORTHY RESOURCES For Teens

JIMMY PITARO

With innovation, recommendations, and customization at the forefront, ESPN Chairman Jimmy Pitaro is transforming sports content consumption and making the network’s mission to “Serve Sports Fans. Anytime. Anywhere.” a reality. by

samantha yanks

LIGHT A FIRE

It’s our favorite time of the year! We honor the unsung heroes among us who are changing— and in some cases, saving— the lives of people near and far.

by jill johnson mann

Five women changing the face of philanthropy; Good reads for this holiday season by Emily Liebert; Ali Dorfman launches The College Corner; Jay Norris opens Content Studio Westport DO Abby Dixon on maternal mental health crisis; Local resources to help youth address challenges; Superpower Mentors

A gift guide for all the people in your life; Jewelry and accessory brands driving the design culture in Fairfield County; Five ways to make this holiday season less stressful

Framebridge opens in Westport; Chic home décor gifts to give this season

out about store openings, see what’s coming up in the

and enjoy photos of iconic places around the area— follow us on Instagram. Together, we make living here the best!

ince founding Touijer Designs in 2012, Sara Touijer has touched homes and hearts in such a personal way that even Rachel Ray hired her to share her expertise on the Hulu/A&E show Rachel Ray’s Rebuild. Committed to both design and community, Sara leads a team that creates beautiful, functional spaces for her clients, while also giving back through her local non-profit One Room Wonders, which offers home makeovers to deserving individuals. This philanthropic arm of Touijer Designs is rooted in her belief

that the art of design can have transformative effects on well-being and health - a mantra that has made her a highly sought-after designer throughout Westchester and Connecticut.

Now a CT Gold Coast location makes it even easier for you to connect with Sara and her expert team to realize your design vision, focusing on well-being, function, flow, and familyfriendly spaces. Working with Sara means activating a dynamic team of experts and artisans—from interior designers and architects

to construction crews and project managers—who work together with grace and synergy, bringing your dream to fruition with ease. Each member of her team is dedicated to creating stunning spaces that you and your family will enjoy for years to come.

With the New Year approaching, Touijer Designs is ready to help bring your home refresh or entirely new vision to life. Let us create an unforgettable setting where countless, beautiful memories will unfold in your home.

NEW CONSTRUCTION & RENOVATION

We share your distinctive vision for a custom home design that inspires and endures. Then we help you select the perfect builder for your needs and budget.

INTERIOR DESIGN & FURNISHINGS

We collaborate with you to conceptualize a curated interior that is uniquely you and welcomes you home, sparking joy in your life. We delve deep in the design world to embed a treasure you cannot live without at the heart of every room.

BATH & KITCHEN DESIGN

We explore creative environments that integrate beauty with function. The ultimate goal is a home that retains its historic character while supporting your modern lifestyle.

editorial

editorial director

Cristin Marandino–cristin.marandino@moffly.com

editor-in-chief: westport

Samantha Yanks–samantha.yanks@moffly.com

books correspondent Emily Liebert

culinary + cocktails contributor

Jennifer Pupa Schwartz

fitness + wellness contributor

Eric Johnson

home décor contributor

Simona Levin

style contributor Amy Guzzi

fashion and jewelry contributor

Nancy Berger

contributing editors

Megan Gagnon–editor, athome

Elizabeth Hole–editor, custom publishing

Eileen Murphy–editor, new canaan • darien Melinda Anderson–editor, stamford

copy editors

Terry Christofferson, Lynne Piersall, David Podgurski, Scott Thomas, Isabella Critchell

contributing writers

Samantha Critchell, Carol Leonetti Dannhauser, Sophie Edwards, Suzanne Gannon, Elizabeth Keyser, Jill Johnson Mann, Erik Ofgang

editorial intern Lily Caplan

editorial advisory board

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

art

senior art director

Garvin Burke–garvin.burke@moffly.com

contributing art director

Venera Alexandrova–venera.alexandrova@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

audience devolpment editor Kaitlin Madden–kaitlin.madden@moffly.com

digital marketing manager

Rachel MacDonald–rachel.macdonald@moffly.com

digital assistant

Lloyd Gabi–lloyd.gabi@moffly.com, Jeffery Garay–jeffery.garay@moffly.com Calendar@Moffly.com Editor@WestportMag.com Weddings@WestportMag.com

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sales & marketing Gina Fusco publisher, new canaan, darien & rowayton gina.fusco@moffly.com

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business president

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editor’s letter

THE GIFT OF GIVING BACK

For me, the holiday season revolves around one essential word: gratitude. While I strive to practice gratitude daily, the season amplifies my appreciation for the abundance we enjoy here in Fairfield County. I feel fortunate not only to live in this vibrant community but also to be part of a culture that prioritizes giving back.

1: At the Prepchester launch. 2: With Noah and Susan Fenn after leading a fireside chat on marketing for their organization Startup Westport 3: A visit to Bristol to interview ESPN Chairman and cover star Jimmy Pitaro at his office 4: With Martha Stewart at the launch of the Chilewich and Martha Stewart collaboration 5 At Grey Barns for a Pistola dinner with Sarah Sadie Newett, Melissa Connor and Sade Strehkle 6 At a lunch for Scanlan Theodore alongside CEO Melinda Robertson, Sarah Landman and Eleanor Banco,

In this issue, we celebrate the remarkable individuals featured in our “Light A Fire” feature, honoring their dedication to making a positive impact in others’ lives. We also spotlight five incredible women from Westport and Weston committed to driving change through the organizations they are passionate about. The increasing role of women in philanthropy is crucial, as they take the lead in impact giving within a space that has historically been male-dominated.

We’re excited to showcase those who are shaping the future, using their global insights to enrich our local neighborhoods. Jay

Norris has launched The Content Studio of Westport, Abby Dixon is tackling the maternal mental health crisis with The Joywell, and Ali Dorfman has created The College Corner, a valuable resource for students. Additionally, Noah and Susan Fenn continue their work with StartUp Westport, a public-private partnership aimed at enhancing Westport’s tech and innovation landscape.

I also had the pleasure of sitting down with Jimmy Pitaro, who was named Chairman of ESPN in 2023, to discuss his dream role and the vision he has for the future. Lastly, we have plenty of holiday gift ideas, from the newly launched Framebridge “Gift and Go” tabletop frames to our annual holiday gift guide, along with some serene suggestions for those seeking a more tranquil approach this season.

samantha.yanks@moffly.com

SCAN TO VISIT US

HOW TO SCAN: OPEN, AIM & TAP

founder’s page

On one occasion a cover subject arrived super late sporting an old Madras shirt, cargo shorts and a monster hangover.

OF SHOOTS AND SHENANIGANS

“

Apicture’s worth a thousand words.” Confucius may have coined the phrase, but it really took off in December 1921 when Frederick R. Barnard published a piece in Printer’s Ink titled, “One Look is Worth a Thousand Words,” commending the effectiveness of graphics in advertising.

He was right. A good photograph is worth the effort of organizing all those shoots—such as lining up ten amazing volunteers for the “Light A Fire” story this month.

Most shoots go swimmingly, but some, well … Photographer Bob Capazzo and I once went to photograph a respected art collector and found her inebriated. To calm her down, we handed her her little dog then somehow propped them up long enough to get a pretty good shot.

In a kitchen we were doing, a five-year-old boy was sitting on a countertop swinging his legs. Except that every time his little brother toddled by, he’d kick him in the head. The mother seemed oblivious, but Bob was so undone he forgot to put film in his camera for the first few shots.

Once, preparing for a shot, he was raking leaves out of the pond at the Garden Center, fell in up to his waist in mud and had to be rescued.

Another time, a cover subject arrived super late sporting an old Madras shirt, cargo shorts and a monster hangover. So photographer Visco Hatfield offered to share a black designer suit he happened to have in his car; editor Cristin Marandino ran out to Old Navy for a T-shirt, and art director Holly Keeperman lent him her belt. Voila!

When I was GREENWICH editor-in-chief, sometimes I tagged along on shoots and got to know some wonderful characters. Admittedly, I had issues with a few—such as Victor Borge’s Man Friday who wanted his boss posed in his prize-winning rose garden, but I wanted him at the piano, natch. (I won.) On another occasion,

sitting on a bench next to her husband, there was the very large woman in a very short skirt presenting a very awkward angle for the camera. I suggested she take off her hat because it hid her face and put it on her lap.

Connecticut Governor Jodie Rell became a favorite of mine during a shoot at Nestlé Waters. Chatting between takes, I told her that my husband was going in for a triple bypass in the morning, and the next evening on our answering machine was the governor herself saying: “I’ve been thinking of you both all day. Now, Jack, when you get home, you’ve got to take it easy. And that’s an executive order!”

And in 1989 when we were doing a piece on Tom Watson Jr.’s scrimshaw collection, I walked into his living room, took one look at him and quipped: “Mr. Watson, all you sailors are alike. You look like unmade beds. We need to fix you up!” He laughed heartily and invited me into his wardrobe room to pick out a new outfit. In there, he volunteered: “You know, right after this I’m flying to Cleveland for the 100th birthday of a good friend of mine.” I responded, “I bet I know who that is: Fred Crawford.” He looked at me, nonplussed: “How do you know Fred Crawford?” “Because he’s my Godfather,” I answered proudly, Uncle Fred being the only person ever inducted into three Halls of Fame during his lifetime.

“What’s more,” I added, “I know who your godfather was, too. Joe Rogers.” Mr. Watson was floored, Joe being his father’s longtime business partner. I explained that growing up in Shaker Heights, Joe’s daughter Jane was my best friend. “And, Mr. Watson,” I added, “Janie was named after your grandmother!”

Just think what I would have missed, if I hadn’t been editor of this magazine.

Now look what I’ve done—written 648 words! Maybe I should have settled for a picture.

THE WORLD’S #1 IN ORTHOPEDICS IS RIGHT HERE IN CONNECTICUT.

HSS, the world’s #1 in orthopedics, has teamed up with Stamford Health to bring the best comprehensive musculoskeletal care to Connecticut. And with a new location now in Westport , we’re bringing more of our industry-leading experts to support you from diagnosis through nonsurgical and surgical treatment and postoperative care. Now you can choose to move better and get back to doing what you love.

To learn more visit HSS.edu/StamfordHealth

Most major insurance plans accepted.

buzz

TYLER BOE DREXLER

Horizons at CT State Norwalk

KIRA GREENFIELD

Hearts in Harmony Foundation

Genevieve Lau The Loved Movement

FIERCE PHILANTHROPISTS

FIVE WOMEN CHANGING THE FACE OF SOCIAL IMPACT by samantha yanks

Weestport Volunteer EMS

Fifty years ago, Richard Nixon was resigning, Barbra Streisand’s “The Way We Were” was the No. 1 song and a stamp cost 10 cents— that was 10 cents more than the cost of a ticket at the new performance space Westport residents erected on the site of the town dump that year. Fifty years later, the Levitt Pavilion, named after benefactors Mimi and Mortimer Levitt, offers as many free concerts per year as years the community gathering space has been in existence.

“We are closer to sixty this year,” say Carleigh Welsh, the Levitt’s Vice President and Executive Producer. “We are the Dolly Parton of presenters,” quips Carleigh. “We believe more is more!” Carleigh pretty much grew up at the Levitt; her mom Freda has been running the show.

JUDY MICHAELIS

JENNIFER LAU

ANDREA MOORE

The Carver

Guided Horseback Riding, Fly Fishing, Hiking & Bespoke Adventures

Curated

How long you have been involved?

I was introduced to Horizons National over a decade ago while working at Ralph Lauren who supported the program on a national level. When I moved to New Canaan, my father-in-law, Blake Drexler, who was on the board, introduced me to the CT State Norwalk aﬃliate, and I was thrilled to become involved on a more local level.

You’re such a highly visible face in fashion around town and you’re equally as passionate about Horizons. Tell us what the organization does. Horizons at CT State Norwalk is anchored by a six-week summer program guided by a professional faculty in a nurturing environment. The program is committed to the development of the whole child through experiences that enhance self-esteem, build problem-solving skills, and encourage a lifelong interest in learning. Horizons emphasizes academics, the arts, social growth and athletics.

The cornerstone of Horizons at CT State Norwalk, formerly Norwalk Community College, is a six-week, full-day, tuition-free summer program, including academic instruction, enrichment opportunities, social emotional education, field trips, mentoring and guidance. Our students are from Norwalk, qualify for free or reduced fee lunch and like all Horizons affiliates, we provide the fun and confidence-building of swimming and water safety instruction.

During the school year, Horizons CTSN oﬀers one-on-one tutoring and social emotional learning after school. Our year-round High School Program provides support and resources as students navigate the challenges of high school and college preparation.

Horizon’s vision is that all children have the opportunity to realize their full potential and it is wonderful to be a small part of supporting that for children in our community.

What are some of the events you have activated to raise awareness for the organization?

advance educational equity for Norwalk students by providing academic and enrichment opportunities, a collaborative community, and an inspirational learning environment.

Given that our affiliate takes place on a college campus, CT State Norwalk, one of my first goals when joining the board was to raise awareness to families in neighboring towns. My Communication Co-Chair Charlotte Lamb and I created the Women’s Ambassador Council which in three short years has grown to over 300 women across the towns of New Canaan, Darien and Rowayton who are all engaged in supporting Horizons through many different touchpoints.

As an aﬃliate without a privateschool parent base, we rely on this dynamic group of women to build our support base and community. Together, we have created exciting and engaging events that have not only raised awareness and program funds, but also connected these communities with the Horizons children and families.

2025 will be the fourth year of our Annual Women’s Ambassador Council Dinner, most recently at Rowayton Seafood, which has sold out in a matter of hours. This event has become our signature

introduce fundraising and event programming along with the Women’s Ambassador Council to this community. There are nine Horizon’s aﬃliates in the state of Connecticut and Horizons at CT State Norwalk is the only aﬃliate hosted on a community college campus, therefore we are looking for our neighboring community of Westport to help us continue to raise this critical awareness. Our values at Horizons at CT State Norwalk are simple: Children First Integrity, Equality, Respect Collaboration. We want to invite and encourage the people of Westport who we know share in our values to help us continue to support these incredible children and families.

What is next for Horizons and your goals with it for 2025?

fundraising moment for this group and due to the amazing engagement of these women we have been able to expand our event programming throughout the year. This includes multiple snack drives, books drives, school supply donations, holiday events and gift donations for the Horizons families, charitable shopping events, as well as workshops to support the parents of children and volunteer mentorship programming for our high school aged students. These moments have been incredibly rewarding for all involved, as it allows you to give back in the time and manner that best suits you and your family. Every person that has touched this program has made a diﬀerence directly towards the children who participate in Horizons.

What are ways you are looking to expand Horizons footprint in Westport?

Given that the children of Horizons at CT State Norwalk are Westport’s neighbors, we are looking forward to having the opportunity to

Our goals have always been and will always continue to be how we can service more children that need the program. Additionally we are proud to say that this year, we are serving ages Pre-K through 12th grade and continue to grow our High School Mentorship program; 97% of our students nationally graduate high school on time and attend college or other post-secondary education. After over a decade of nurturing a love of learning in our students, we look forward to celebrating their accomplishments and hope that Westport can support our hopes of continuously growing our eﬀorts.

• Become a high school mentor

- Sponsor a student

- Host a snack, book or supply drive

- Foster community connections for ﬁeld trips for the students

- Take a tour of our amazing program this summer! You can learn more and donate here: horizonsctsn.org/ donations/

mission of organization:

The brightest minds and biggest hearts in cardiac and vascular care

Keeping your heart healthy means everything. At Nuvance Health Heart & Vascular Institute, the nation’s top talent and experienced care teams offer innovative treatments, utilize leading technology, and provide care centered around you. So you can put your whole heart into the moments that matter most.

Book an appointment with a heart & vascular specialist at nuvancehealth.org/hearthealth

KIRA GREENFIELD Hearts in Harmony Foundation

FOUNDED 2023

mission of organization:

We are passionately raising funds to support cuttingedge research initiatives dedicated to uncovering better treatments and ultimately a cure for Long QT Syndrome (LQTS). Our current focus is on our partnership with the Mayo Clinic called “Project Shea,” where our funding is allowing them to focus on groundbreaking research that could lead to the first-ever FDA-approved treatment for LQTS.

You’re so highly visible in your quest to find a cure if Long QT Syndrome. Tell us about how you came to discover your daughter Shea had this disease. Shea was born on June 20, 2022, and that same day Shea’s heart stopped beating. Doctors scrambled to restart her heartbeat, which luckily they were able to do, but they knew something was very wrong. They immediately performed an electrocardiogram scan (EKG), which revealed something called a “prolonged QT interval,” meaning that Shea’s heart’s electrical system was taking longer than usual to recharge between beats.

From day one you were in a mission to raise fund and Awarness to find a cure. How did you go about that?

Once Shea was diagnosed with LQTS, we wanted to learn

living with her condition. Once we formed our foundation, we started working closely with Dr. Ackerman to determine what the immediate focus should be on, which is how “Project Shea” came about. Through “Project Shea” our foundation has partnered with Dr. Ackerman to drive groundbreaking research that could lead to the first-ever FDA-approved treatment for LQTS. Through our Foundation’s support, Dr. Ackerman has assembled a team of top scientists who are on a mission to develop new drug therapies within the next 12-24 months. Their goal is to discover at least five promising drug candidates and begin human trials within five years, providing hope and a lifeline for families like us, who live every day in fear that our daughter could be taken too soon by this silent condition.

Now you have a foundation. What are the main ways locally that you raise funds?

areas of the United States and not just Fairfield County. We are currently working on setting up fireside chats in Long Island, New Jersey, New York, Florida, and California. We’ve had incredible people show up to the fireside chats that we have hosted and they have offered to help organize chats around the country with people they know who may be interested in getting involved in our cause and/or helping spread awareness.

How old is Shae now and how is she doing with her treatment?

everything possible about the disease and the more we learned, the more alarmed we felt. We did a deep dive of the medications she was taking, neither one an FDA-approved medication for her condition, and one with nasty side effects, so we knew we had to do more than just accept her diagnosis and daily struggles. We did more research and found that there is only one doctor who is actively working on a cure for her condition, and we begged for an appointment. In January 2023 we had a three-hour zoom with Dr. Michael Ackerman at the Mayo Clinic, where we first learned how he would help us navigate this winding journey, and then learned about the work he’s doing for Long QT Syndrome and immediately decided we needed to get involved. We needed to get some power back and fight for a better life for our daughter and so many others

This past June we had our second annual “Shake it for Shea” Gala, where the community came together for an amazing night to celebrate life. We had over 500 people in attendance, and we raised just over $440K. We raised funds through event tickets, as well as sponsorships and our silent auction. Next week we are throwing our first annual “Shank it for Shea” golf outing followed by a reception at Birchwood Country Club. As we get our footing with our foundation, we hope to hold three annual events, as well as many fireside chats where we educate people on our mission and our “why” and hope to get more people interested in our cause.

How and to whom are the funds raised distributed?

The funds are distributed to the Mayo Clinic’s Windland Smith Rice Sudden Death Genomics Lab, which is spearheaded by Dr. Michael Ackerman. They are earmarked specifically for use in LQTS research, and more specifically to be used for Project Shea, which we described above.

What are ways you are looking to expand the foundation’s footprint?

We are trying to expand our footprint to reach many other

Shea is 2 years old now and unfortunately her current treatment (two medications three times a day) is a daily battle. The medications, while necessary, cause severe side effects like frequent vomiting, seizures, dizziness, weakness, and relentless fatigue that rob Shea of the ability to enjoy the activities most children her age take for granted. These side effects, combined with the fact that the current treatments do not fully protect against the risk of sudden death from LQTS, highlight the urgent need for better and safer therapies.

Getting Involved

The most impactful way to help is by raising awareness of Long QT Syndrome and our foundation, Hearts in Harmony. Spreading the word not only educates people about this deadly condition but also connects us with potential donors. Fundraising is essential, because the more we raise, the more we can allocate resources to critical initiatives like Project Shea. These funds enable us to support cuttingedge research, improve treatments, and ultimately find a cure, which is the driving force behind everything we do.

Our Mission

• •

Our Mission

• •

Our Mission

• •

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.

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.

Our Mission

The mission of

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.

Our Mission

The mission of

To promote these goals, we invest in innovative research, breast surgery fellowships, regional education, dignified support and screening for the underserved.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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

To learn more visit breastcanceralliance.org

Breast Cancer Alliance

48 Maple Avenue Greenwich, CT 06830

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

Breast Cancer Alliance

48 Maple Avenue Greenwich, CT 06830

info@breastcanceralliance.org

Breast Cancer Alliance

48 Maple Avenue Greenwich, CT 06830

info@breastcanceralliance.org

Breast Cancer Alliance

info@breastcanceralliance.org

Yonni Wattenmaker

Breast Cancer Alliance

48 Maple Avenue Greenwich, CT 06830

info@breastcanceralliance.org

Yonni Wattenmaker

Executive Director

Yonni Wattenmaker

Executive Director

info@breastcanceralliance.org

Executive Director

Yonni Wattenmaker

48 Maple Avenue Greenwich, CT 06830 info@breastcanceralliance.org

To learn more visit breastcanceralliance.org

48 Maple Avenue Greenwich, CT 06830 info@breastcanceralliance.org

info@breastcanceralliance.org

Executive Director

Yonni Wattenmaker

Executive Director

Yonni Wattenmaker

breastcanceralliance

Executive Director

Breast Cancer Alliance

breastcanceralliance

Executive Director

48 Maple Avenue

breastcanceralliance

@BCAllianceCT

breastcanceralliance

@BCAllianceCT

Greenwich, CT 06830

@BCAllianceCT

info@breastcanceralliance.org

To learn more visit breastcanceralliance.org breastcanceralliance

@breastcanceralliance

@BCAllianceCT

breastcanceralliance

@breastcanceralliance

Yonni Wattenmaker

@breastcanceralliance

@BCAllianceCT

Executive Director

@breastcanceralliance

@BCAllianceCT

@breastcanceralliance

breastcanceralliance

mission of organization:

The Loved Movement’s mission is to make the world a brighter place one loved necklace at a time. We try to reach as many women battling cancer as we can to help them feel a little more supported, stronger, hopeful and most importantly loved.

You’re such an incredible jewelry designer Tell us a bit about choosing this iconic necklace for the LOVED mission and campaign?

Thank you so much ! I designed the loved with the intention of it connecting women. That’s why we chose a circle. There’s no beginning or end. It’s like the loved necklace — you would never know if someone bought it for themselves or was gifted it or received it as a donation. It connects all of us women. I wanted a simple yet bold font to be proud of wearing it and showing we are loved. And of course like all my jewelry I wanted a chic, but simple classic statement. timeless.

How did you come to partner with BCA and PinkAid on this partnership?

I partnered with Pink Aid thanks to the founders of Pink Aid, Andrew Mitchell and Amy Katz. I happened to be at the Pink Aid charity event about 10 years ago and while watching the runway show thought this is how I can make an impact.

I can donate loved necklaces to women with cancer. I just designed the piece for my line about six months before and one of the survivors was wearing one of my loved. When I met with Andrew and Amy they fell in love (ha ha) with the piece and the idea and movement as much as I did!

What I love about LOVED is that there is a one-for-one giveback. After meeting with Pink Aid I thought about how to make this the most impactful and to me it was just very obvious. It became a one for one. For every loved necklace sold, one is donated to a women with cancer. We started out just working with Pink Aid, but it has grown so much that now most of our donations are word of mouth or people reaching out and telling me their stories. We are always pivoting to make sure we

I’ve donated approximately 2,000 loved necklaces to date. It’s truly become a movement.

LAU

are helping women with cancer or any women who just really needs to feel loved since they’re going through a challenging time.

How many necklaces have you donated?

I’ve donated approximately 2,000 loved necklaces to date. It’s truly become a movement.

Tell us about some of the impact you have seen in the woman wearing your LOVED pieces.

I recently heard the most amazing story about one of our loved necklaces. About 8 years ago I was doing a trunk show in Jackson Hole. A woman from New York City was vacationing there and loved the story. She bought a necklace for her friend who was just diagnosed with cancer. Her friend finished treatment and passed it to someone else who was undergoing treatment. And so on. It has kept going and being passed along for eight years to someone who really need to have strength, feel supported and loved!

Many believe (myself included) that there’s some magic power in these loved necklaces. I always hear how women touch it and hold it when they need a little extra support. I’ve seen this. It makes me so happy to see women have something tangible to help with difficult times. I am just trying to make the world a better brighter place one loved necklace at a time.

You’re such a boldface name in real estate around town and you have your eyes on the ground. Tell us a bit about choosing our local EMS to support. I had a local mom whose house I was selling, and I remember being surprised when she opened the door to greet me, clad in an EMS uniform. I learned that even though she had four kids, she still made the time to volunteer for a shift every Friday as an EMT to serve our community. When I started asking questions, I distinctly remember her saying, “Judy, this is not New York City. Our EMS is almost all volunteers and we need to fundraise to stay current with the latest equipment.” She helped bring awareness to me of how important our local EMS was and inspired me to get involved.

The bottom line is nothing is more important in our town than the EMS and we must always be fundraising and recruiting volunteers.

JUDY MICHAELIS

How did you come to get involved and how long have you been?

I like to help where I am most needed. Once I learned that Westport Volunteer EMS did not have a fundraising

mission of organization: To save lives.

department or even a staff person in charge of fundraising, I knew I could use my skills as a marketer to benefit them. I have been organizing fundraising events for the past five years that raise awareness and

bring the community together. One of the things I am most proud of is that when you donate to the EMS, 100% of the money goes directly to EMS, and not to a staff person in charge of distributing it.

What are some of the events you have activated to raise awareness for the EMS?

Our most recent event was a fun Band-Aid music event in September. It featured the popular DJ Mo, Teacup Sallie band, and Vintage Band, two favorite groups in the community. It was held at the beautiful Cedar Point Yacht Club, truly one of Westport’s hidden gems. I have also organized several restaurant opening events with all proceeds benefitting the EMS. For example, in August 2023, I organized an opening for the Mexican restaurant Tacombi, which raised over $10,000. It is also a way to say thank you to the EMT volunteers, who we always invite to join for free.

What is the shortfall in what the town supports and operating costs?

The shortfall is twofold. First, since EMS is solely funded on donations, we need more money for vehicles and state-of-the artequipment. We rely on fundraising to equip our community with the best vehicles and equipment and give the highest caliber training to our volunteers. Our ambulances are getting older, and the price of a new one is more than $400,000. Additionally, with the increase in the town’s population, we also need more trained EMS volunteers, as our current volunteers are overwhelmed.

You work closely with EMS President James Bairaktaris.

What are your goals for 2025?

We are organizing another Band-Aid music event for 2025. We also plan to host more fabulous pre-opening restaurant parties like the fundraising event we did at Tacombi. I also hope to do a Kitchen Crawl for EMS in the next few years, like I had done for other nonprofits before the pandemic. Local chefs were stationed at gorgeous homes in Westport and it was a party with over 400 people moving from house to house! The bottom line is nothing is more important in our town than the EMS and we must always be fundraising and recruiting volunteers.

JUDY MICHAELIS Westport Volnteer EMS FOUNDED 1979

Highly visible. ...

I have dedicated time to many organizations in Westport over the last 20+ years focused on children and education: PTA, Staples Tuition Grants, Westport/Weston Family Y, NCL. I have volunteered at the Carver, through the NCL Westport/Weston where my daughters and I are members, and then was invited to a few events by a friend, Inwha Kim who is on the board. Once I heard the students success stories I was hooked on the organization, their mission and the significant impact they are having on young lives. One of the most impressive statistics is since 2005, 100% of the Carver seniors have graduated on time from high school and almost all become firstgeneration college students. The impact is significant.

Tell us a bit about the work the organization does.

Carver operates 60+ beforeschool, after-school, summer, and community programs serving nearly 3,000 students per year. Certified teachers who work in the students’ daytime schools lead the programs that take place in every K-12 Norwalk Public School, Side by Side Charter School, Bridgeport’s Classical Studies Magnet Academy, four elementary schools in Bridgeport, Stamford High School, Naugatuck High School, and the Carver Community Center.

What are some of ways locally that you raise funds and awareness?

Attending and encouraging friends to participate in Carver’s events such as their annual spring gala, golf tournament, and cocktail parties. These are great opportunities to hear from students and graduates directly impacted by Carver programs. Historically, Rowayton has been very supportive of the Carver, but we are working on broadening awareness and support in our Westport community.

How and to whom are the funds raised distributed?

The Carver team is supported by many volunteers like myself serving on committees to raise awareness and funds to support its vital programming. Funded raised support all of the before

and after school programs within the schools as well as at The Carver location in Norwalk. Last June, The Carver also awarded over $150,000 in scholarships to graduating seniors and returning college students.

What are ways you are looking to expand the center’s footprint?

Demand is high for the Carver’s programs that offer academic support, STEAM enrichment programs, workforce development initiatives, wellness activities, and more. The Carver has fully expanded into all 21 Norwalk Public Schools and is increasingly becoming a regional provider with additional programs in Bridgeport, Stamford, and Naugatuck.

Construction is underway on a new two-story Teen Center addition at the Carver Community Center. The Carver collaborates with many community partners to provide robust STEAM enrichments and workforce development programming, including paid internships for 11th-and-12th graders.

There are many ways to get involved at the Carver. The team is always looking for volunteers to share their skills by serving on a volunteer committee (fundraising, events, etc.) or with Carver kids (tutoring, college/career prep, leading workshops).

Nikki LaFaye is the Director of Philanthropy, and she is happy to talk to anyone who is interested in getting more information or becoming involved in a big or small way. Contact nikki@the-carver.org.

PHOTOS BY ANDREA CARSON

is the USAToday

THE GIFT OF READING

Have you been naughty or nice? Either way, ’tis the season to curl up with a good book. THIS YEAR’S HOLIDAY LIST INCLUDES NOVELS about: a Hollywood screen goddess with a dark secret, a fated family getaway in Cape Cod, a sixty-year-old love story, one woman’s obsession with a socialite grifter and the unsolved disappearance of a young girl from Texas. by emily

liebert

THE GODDESS OF WARSAW BY

ILISA BARR

n 2005, Sienna Hayes was Hollywood’s It Girl. When she crosses paths with Golden Age movie star Lena Browning, she decides to direct a ﬁlm about Lena’s life. Yet Lena’s troubled past is darker than Sienna expected. Prior to becoming a big screen legend, Lena was Bina Blonski, a Polish Jew whose family was brutalized by the Nazis. Flashback to Warsaw, 1943, when Bina and her husband, Jakub, were imprisoned and determined to ﬁght back against the Nazis. Bina became a spy, gathering information and weapons to protect her fellow Jews. She also fell in love with Aleksander, Jakub’s brother. Over a decade later, Bina becomes Lena and ascends to Hollywood fame. Though she can’t shake her burning pursuit for justice, no matter the cost.

TESS CALLAHAN

After eleven summers of building traditions, April, her brother-in-law Oliver, and their families reunite in Cape Cod on a stunning stretch of beach called Dawnland. Yet this year brings new threats. Before they were married to their respective signiﬁcant others, April and Oliver had a passionate but dreadful fling that they kept concealed. While they moved on with their lives, their recent heated encounter isn’t as easy to keep hidden— especially as the week progresses, exposing fault lines between husbands and wives and also brothers, fathers, sons and children growing up amid lies. The main source of conflict is April’s capricious teenage son, Lochlann. As the family structure begins to waver, secrets are revealed and everyone has to face the consequences of their choices.

THE LOVE ELIXIR OF AUGUSTA STERN

BY LYNDA COHEN LOIGMAN

On the verge of turning eighty, retired pharmacist Augusta Stern relocates to a senior community in southern Florida and unexpectedly reunites with Irving Rivkin, a delivery boy from her father’s old pharmacy who broke her heart sixty years ago. This random run-in thrusts her back to her days as a teenager in 1920’s Brooklyn, when her mother died and her Great Aunt Esther moved in. Augusta was immediately drawn to Esther’s methods as a healer, oﬀering pharmacy customers advice and eccentric remedies. While Augusta prepares for pharmacy college, she impulsively uses Esther’s most powerful elixir with ruinous consequences. Six decades later, faced with Irving, Augusta is still disturbed by her past mistakes. Can she recover the magic of her youth before it’s too late?

THE MOST FAMOUS GIRL IN THE WORLD

BY IMAN HARIRI-KIA

Rose Aslani is mid-bikini wax when a notiﬁcation appears on her phone: Famed scam artist Poppy Hastings will be released from prison today. Two years have passed since Rose—a functional trainwreck and reporter for online journal The Shred wrote the probing article that revealed Poppy as a socialite grifter and turned her into a beloved internet celebrity. Rose has been reeling ever since. Although Poppy served time for swindling some of the world’s wealthiest, most powerful men, Rose knows that Poppy’s crimes were far worse. And she may need the help of a handsome FBI agent gone rogue to prove it. As Poppy’s star rises, Rose becomes obsessed with exposing Poppy for the monster that she is. But it’s not going to be easy.

THE UNDERCURRENT BY SARAH

SAWYER

What happens when a woman becomes obsessed with the disappearance of a young girl from her small Texas hometown? It’s 2011 and Deecie Jeﬀries’ missing person’s case is still unsolved. Having left Austin, Texas, and those memories behind her, new mom Bee is living in Maine, saddled with postpartum depression. Enter Leo, her childhood crush and the best friend of her estranged twin Gus. With her life upended by Leo’s reappearance, Bee returns to her childhood home. In doing so, she becomes consumed with unearthing the truth about Deecie’s vanishing and what happened to the people in her neighborhood, including Gus, Leo and their mothers. Told in multiple perspectives with two distinct timelines, this book is a riveting portrayal of family bonds and buried secrets.

DAWNLAND

emily liebert

Emily Liebert

bestselling author of seven novels and a NewYork Times bestselling celebrity ghostwriter. Her books are available worldwide.

Our 17th annual Light a Fire event honors individuals and organizations from across lower Fairfield County who have accomplished incredible feats to support our community, families, schools and at-risk individuals. This year’s honorees were nominated by the community and the final award winners were selected based on their incredible work.

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 4, 2024

Photos by Kyle Norton

THE COLLEGE CORNER

ALI DORFMAN LAUNCHES YOUR GO-TO SPOT FOR ALL THINGS COLLEGIATE

by lily caplan

Ali Dorfman came up with her idea for the College Corner after being amazed with the wedding website

The Knot. The Knot is a global family of brands that provides best-in-class products, services and content to take celebration planning from inspiration to action.

“I was like, I know this is a crazy idea, but is there a Theknot.com for college? There’s so much to the college, from an advisor to essay coach, test prep, all the swag, the dorm decor and advice,” Dorfman said. “I thought, we should have that for college.”

And so the College Corner was created! The College Corner is the first curated online marketplace for all things college. As Dorfman likes to call it is “the one-stop shop for all things college.” It is a service vendor directory of coaches, tutors, guides to college towns, merch, dorm décor, summer programs, financial guides and more. Dorfman finds vendors from all over the country, starting locally, to be a resource to both students and

parents going through the college process.

Dorfman is a former TV producer and from her background in storytelling she wants to learn about these businesses.

“There’s all these moms that started businesses during Covid selling candy boards or cookies. So we’re sharing their stories, collaborating with them, getting people to know about them,” she said.

Dorfman finds vendors from all over the country, and already has a database of 10,000 people ready to use the College Corner as their guide.

The website also has a shop section where it will take you to college merch shops, dorm decor, sweet treats and more.

“It’s like a curated Etsy. If you’re just looking for college things, instead of going to Etsy, on the College Corner, the customer knows that I’ve already done the work and curated the best of the best.” Dorfman said.

The new College Corner website is launching soon, so keep an eye out!

above: The College Corner is a curated marketplace for all things college.

above: CEO of The College Corner, Ali Dorfman right: The Talking College™ card decks, which can be found on The College Corner

2024/2025 Season of Laughter at the playhouse!

Back at the Playhouse by popular demand. TWO BELOVED CLASSIC TALES. ONE THRILLING MYSTERY. Don’t miss this heartwarming holiday production for all ages—and a theatrical experience you’ll never forget!

Corporate Partner:

JAN 23 - 26, 2025

FEB 18 - MAR 8, 2025 MAR 25 - APR 12, 2025 DEC 17 - 22, 2024

A concert of show-stopping favorites! Come for a night of Broadway’s most memorable songs.

by Karen Zacarías

An outrageous comedy about culture clash and bad behavior.

For more info on the 2024/2025 season go to: WESTPORTPLAYHOUSE.ORG 203 227 4177

by Paul Slade Smith adapted from Ferenc Molnár’s “Play at the Castle.”

Production Supporter: Cherie Quain

Scan for a full list of events!

JA HUB FOR INNOVATION!

FROM REAL ESTATE TO TECH AND NOW TRANSFORMING WESTPORT’S CREATIVE LANDSCAPE, JAY NORRIS BRINGS HIS VISION TO LIFE WITH THE CONTENT STUDIO OF WESTPORT.

by lily caplan

ay Norris is nothing short of impressive. Norris has experience in many sectors and is currently the CEO and Founder of Guesst Software, CMO and Co-Founder of Blacklight Extension, Co-Founder and CEO of Lifestyle Equities, host of Visionary’s Podcast, Co-Chairman of the Manhattan Chamber of Commerce and board member of Westport Downtown Association. And most recent, is the Co-Founder of the new Content Studio of Westport.

Norris grew up in Detroit, Michigan, and attended Howard University in Washington, D.C. After school, Norris worked in the music industry and started Tastemakers Media. He then began his real estate brokerage career as Director for Marcus Millichap and then Eastern Consolidated Properties. He moved

this photo: Co-founder of The Content Studio of Westport, Jay Norris.

to New York City. In 2017, Norris and his wife, Crystal, made the decision to move to Westport to raise their two kids, Jacob and Sophia. The Norrises decided on Westport for a few reasons,

“My wife’s family is from Connecticut, so grandma and sisters lived out here. Another reason we chose Westport was because of the obvious reasons; great housing stock and taxes associated, great school systems, beautifully designed main street, and access to the beach,” Norris said.

However, with all these great factors about Westport, it lacked the diversity Norris was looking and hoping for. During Covid-19 and after the murder of George Flloyd, Norris and three other men came up with the idea for Westport 10. Westport 10 is an organization for Black & Brown professionals that strive to make Westport a more diverse and welcoming town for people of color. It started with four men and now includes 70+ men and their families.

Norris is a boardmember of Westport Weston Family YMCA, the Westport Library and a co-founder of Startup Westport, which fosters technology and innovation in Westport.

Norris loves the YMCA and the library but saw that Westport was lacking a curated and elevated space for people to gather. “We needed a space that isn’t a 501(c) where people can come together,” he said.

He is a member of Spring Place in NYC and had a craving for a space where like-minded individuals could meet, collaborate and enjoy memorable experiences here intown.

In 2022, Chirag Shah bought the space at 20 Saugatuck Ave for his coaching company, Chirag Shah Coaching. And last year, just when Norris was looking for a space to execute his idea, a friend of Norris introduced him to Chirag at the space a year ago.

“When I met Chirag, he shared his goal of helping coach and educate businesses in Westchester and Fairfield county. Essentially the design aesthetic of the space was already there when I walked in. It was like a blank canvas just waiting for masterpieces to be created,” Norris said. “We leaned in on our shared vision, we both bring a wealth of knowledge to the table, plus we also do not aspire to commute to city anymore.”

Boom! The idea of Westport Content Studio was created and they got to work. The

“MY WIFE’S FAMILY IS FROM CONNECTICUT, SO GRANDMA AND SISTERS LIVED OUT HERE. ANOTHER REASON WE CHOSE WESTPORT WAS BECAUSE OF THE OBVIOUS REASONS; GREAT HOUSING STOCK AND TAXES ASSOCIATED, GREAT SCHOOL SYSTEMS, BEAUTIFULLY DESIGNED MAIN STREET, AND ACCESS TO THE BEACH.” Jay Norris

renovations of the space took six months and the space opened June 19, 2024. One of the key aspects of the space is the event stage, which was designed with Steve Jobs and TED Talks in mind.

“Picture a space that you can broadcast globally and have an audience to launch your new idea into the world … a place where one can launch, inspire, educate and train the upcoming generation of founders, innovators, entrepreneurs and creators,” Norris said.

The Content Studio of Westport isn’t just a space for private or curated events but also offers customized content production, business coaching and live masterclasses with subject matter experts. They have an in-house team for filming, editing, bartenders, caterers and more.

“Creators, founders, entrepreneurs, designers and CEOs all need a space or lab to create. So when we moved here, I was always looking for a space to bring thought-leaders, creatives and visionary’s together,” he said.

Norris puts the studio to work with his own Visionary’s Podcast. He films the interviews at the studio and has interviewed Dan Woog, Jen Tooker, Cliff Sirlin, Dan O’Keefe, Kal Amin, Foti Koskinas, Jimmy Pitaro and Adam Goldberg.

“This is why we would like the influencers and business owners intown to view the space so they can create their own curated events, memories and experiences here,” Norris said.

The Content Studio of Westport is offering a unique opportunity for the first 40 businesses to join as founding members. As a founding member, you’ll gain access to exclusive benefits designed to help you grow, network, and thrive in the world of content creation.

above: The Content Studio of Westport is a brand new renovated space.

above: (top left): Jay Norris with Co-Founder Chirag Shah. (bottom left): First Selectwoman of Westport, Jennifer Tooker and Jay Norris. (right) podcast recording studio at The Content Studio of Westport.

BAYE & ASA

Selected in 2022 as one of Dance Magazine’s “25 to Watch,” Baye & Asa is a company creating movement art projects including 4|2|3 which examines the intergenerational cooperation necessary to acknowledge the existential crisis of climate change.

November 13 • 7:30 p.m.

The Howard and Katherine Aibel Memorial Concert Owls

November 3 • 3 p.m.

Mark Ludwig

The 27th Annual Jacoby-Lunin Humanitarian Lecture 203.254.4010 •

November 14 • 7:30 p.m.

Bringing Joy

THE FOUNDER OF JOYWELL ABBY DIXON HELPS WOMEN NAVIGATE THE MATERNAL MENTAL HEALTH CRISIS.

by samantha yanks

Abby Dixon, founder of The Joywell, is launching an innovative initiative to address Connecticut’s escalating maternal mental health crisis. With postpartum depression affecting more new mothers each year, Joywell steps in as a vital support system. Offering personalized care tailored to the unique challenges women face during pregnancy and beyond, Abby’s holistic approach provides not just solutions but a sense of community and empowerment. Her program is designed to help mothers navigate this transformative time with the mental and emotional tools they need to thrive, not just survive.

How does your personal experience as a mother and therapist shape your unique approach to Joywell’s perinatal services?

A: My personal experience as both a mother and therapist plays a huge role in shaping Joywell’s approach. Having gone through the early days of motherhood three times, I understand how overwhelming it can be—not just physically, but emotionally. Living away from my family, I had

to create my own support systems and routines that worked for my family. These experiences allow me to deeply empathize with my clients’ challenges. As a therapist specializing in maternal mental health, I combine evidence-based techniques with personal insights to offer customized guidance throughout each mother’s journey.

What role do mental health and holistic wellness play in the postpartum journey, and how do you incorporate these into your services?

A: Mental health and holistic wellness are at the core of everything I do at Joywell. The postpartum period is a especially vulnerable time for mothers, emotionally and physically. Often, focus is solely on the baby, but a mother’s well-being is essential for the entire family. My services emphasize emotional well-being support and address feelings like anxiety, overwhelm or depression. We also focus on holistic wellness, looking at the mother’s needs from physical recovery to emotional health and family dynamics, ensuring that moms feel grounded and empowered. My approach is always about creating balance, giving moms the space to prioritize themselves so they can show up as their best version.

Your brand emphasizes transitioning from “surviving” to “thriving” in motherhood. Can you share strategies or services that help new mothers make this shift?

A: The shift from “surviving” to “thriving” in motherhood is vital, and I am deeply passionate about it. Many moms feel like they are just keeping their heads above water because they have not had space to fully prepare for the postpartum period. At Joywell, we create tailored postpartum plan that anticipates challenges and needs so moms can feel confident and ready. Weekly check-ins and unlimited support through WhatsApp ensure moms never feel alone. We also prioritize self-

do

care and boundary-setting, reminding mothers that it’s okay to ask for help. When mothers have that support, they can shift into a mindset where they can truly thrive.

Joywell offers a range of services for mothers in different circumstances. How do you ensure that postpartum care is accessible and adaptable to varying needs, including your elevated concierge service?

A: Joywell’s approach is rooted in the belief that every mother and family is unique. I work hard to meet clients where they are, offering personalized support that feels both accessible and meaningful for them. Some moms may need a detailed postpartum plan, while others seek deeper emotional support or specialized care. The concierge service is designed for moms who feel overwhelmed and want a stressfree, customized experience, whether it’s creating a baby registry, scheduling appointments, or emotional support. My goal is always to take as much off their plate as possible while ensuring they have the best care and support.

As a leader in maternal mental health, what trends do you see in supporting new mothers, and how is Joywell influencing that change?

A: There has been a positive shift in conversations around maternal mental health, with increased awareness and reduced stigma. However, there’s still a long way to go. Many mothers feel like they have to manage everything on their own or they do not have the resources they need to thrive in postpartum. Joywell is changing that narrative by offering comprehensive support that addresses both mental and emotional challenges. I believe postpartum care should be seen as essential, not a luxury, and my goal is to make these services accessible while providing an elevated experience for those who seek it.

NOT ALL HEROES WEAR CAPES

HOW A YOUNG ENTREPRENEUR IS OFFERING HELP AND HOPE TO KIDS WHO OTHERWISE MAY FALL THROUGH THE CRACKS—KIDS, JUST LIKE HIM

by valerie foster

Jake Sussman, founder and president of Superpower Mentors, is achieving some pretty impressive business success at the age of 29—not bad for someone who was told he would never go to college.

Consider his company’s mission: To empower the next generation of neurodiverse thinkers—those with ADHD, dyslexia, autism, OCD and other learning differences— to confidently succeed in any

environment.

It is the second word in the company name explains it best. They are mentors, not coaches, therapists or doctors, and each of the more than 100 mentors has a diagnosed learning difference. The mentees are matched with a mentor who shares their learning differences and is involved in an occupation or hobby that the mentee is equally passionate about.

Mentors’ occupations range from art director to aerospace

engineer. Since the company’s start during Covid, there have been more than 8,000 sessions completed, all virtual, with mentors and mentees living in seven countries. Mentees range in age from seven through college, with a program in the works for those who’ve graduated and are in the workplace.

The results speak for themselves. Jake says that 84 percent of mentees show improvements in confidence and self-advocacy; 93 percent see

an increase in emotional wellbeing; 91 percent of parents say mentors are the key to their child’s success; and 69 percent experience these advances within the first month of the program.

Jake says his company’s secret sauce is the relationships forged among the mentor, mentee and parents. “When you have a child with learning differences, it affects the whole family, and in many cases the family is at a loss as to what to do,” he says. “Mentors speak the

above: Jake Sussman (founder and president), Dylann Cooper (head of program success), Max Sussman (cofounder and CEO) and Stephanie Minaya (head of operations)

same language as the mentees because they live their lives. They talk to the kids at a different level and can really help them deal with life. We’re teaching kids how to find their voice, to advocate for themselves and to explore those things that are of interest to each person.”

His company is more than a job. It’s his life. “I struggled in school in Westport and felt that no one understood me. I felt so alone,” he says of his learning differences. By middle school he left public school to attend Eagle Hill School. High school found him at the Foreman School in Litchfield, a top boarding school for learning differences. Fortunately, with the help of his parents, teachers and therapists, he realized at an early age that to be successful he would

“Mentors speak the same language as the mentees because they live their lives. They talk to the kids at a different level and can really help them deal with life. WE’RE TEACHING KIDS HOW TO FIND THEIR VOICE, TO ADVOCATE FOR THEMSELVES and to explore those things that are of interest to each person.”

—JAKE SUSSMAN

have to become his own advocate, and that conviction led him to graduate from the University of Hartford and subsequently found his company.

“It’s not that I am anti-therapy. Many of us have a therapist, coach, psychiatrist, but there is still something missing, and that’s someone we can relate to. Superpower Mentors gives people the opportunity to team up and learn to live.”

SPOTLIGHT: EASTON WADDELL

Easton Waddell is a student at Belmont University in Nashville, but it hasn’t been an easy journey for this young man with ADHD. “I struggled. Missing classes. Struggling to do my classwork. Wasn’t making friends,” he says. “I was a wreck.”

After a few years working with Superpower Mentors, first with Jake, and now with his permanent mentor, Tyler Falcoa, his life has changed. “Jake honestly saved me. He really did pull me out of the gutter.”

His dad, David, agrees. “To me, Superpower Mentors has been a lifesaver for Easton and the family. It is mission critical in our lives.”

Jake helped Easton work on his executive functioning skills, getting him to use Google calendar, helping him

HOW IT WORKS

Jake says the first step to getting the proper help is to admit that your child might have an issue. The second is to call Superpower Mentors and talk to Jake or his brother, Max, who is CEO of the

with scheduling, nudging him about assignments, assisting with projects, talking to him when he hit a challenge, but just as important, giving him the confidence to believe he can succeed. “He kept me accountable,” Easton says. “I really trusted him because he was once in the same place that I am.”

Easton transitioned to Tyler as his mentor because of their shared love of music. Easton is in music school, and Tyler is an indie pop artist, music producer and mix engineer who has managed his OCD since he was 10.

“Unfortunately, many people think therapy is the only option to healing,” Tyler says. “It is a very important part. Without it, none of us could make strides. But it’s equally important to find someone who understands

company. “Our job is to get the parents to trust us, to understand that we can make a difference in the life of their child,” says Jake.

The first four to six weeks is when the company gets to know the family and the child, developing a plan and matching the mentee with a mentor.

“Because the match is so accurate, trust is established in about three sessions,” he says. “For instance, if you have a child that is

you and can talk to you. It’s comforting for my mentee to know that I still struggle daily but am successfully working in music. Being a mentor is also part of my healing. We can help each other.”

“I go to Tyler with all my problems,” Easton says. “He is so involved in my life and can help me in areas that others can’t.

I confidently say that I will graduate from college, something I could never say a few years ago. I’m more organized, less scrambled. And when I receive my degree, it will prove to me that I can commit to something, and that is huge. It’s very comforting to know it’s not just me against the world. Tyler and Jake are pushing me forward. They really care that I succeed in every aspect of the way I want to be.”

Because each family plan is unique, monthly program costs range from $600 to $1,500 a month.

“It is worth every penny,” David says. “I would go hungry before I would take Easton out of Superpower Mentors.”

Jake says that what most people don’t realize is that kids with a learning difference are three times more likely to drop out of college than those without one, with the rate hovering around 40 percent.

“Our job is to lower the college dropout rate. We are proving that it can be done.”

playing video games all day, the mentor could be a video developer. That is an instant bond.”

“For many parents, the unspoken elephant in the room is the fear that their child will never launch. That causes stress at home because the parents have no idea what the future will hold for them. We take the pressure away from the parents.” superpowermentors.com; 800-403-2377

above: Easton Waddell and Jake Sussman

The New Youth

LOCALLY ROOTED RESOURCES TO HELP ADDRESS

NIKKI TAUB LIFE COACH

Nikki Taub has been coaching since she could remember.

“Supporting and encouraging others is in my DNA. My fascination with human behavior led me to double-major in psychology and communications, launching my career in reality TV,” Taub said.

As a producer, she was immersed in a world of diverse human dynamics and spent a decade as the showrunner for TLC’s Say Yes to the Dress During this time, she gained profound insight and noticed that many of the young guests on the show were struggling to find their way-riddled with confidence issues, negative thought patterns and limiting beliefs about themselves.

“In our social media-driven world, the pressure to measure up has left our kids feeling isolated and inadequate. It’s heartbreaking to see them stuck, anxious and not living up to their full potential,” Taub said. “I know that with the right mindset and tools, anyone can create a life they love, and I’m passionate about helping them find their way!”

Taub became a life coach a few years ago when her daughter (now a sophomore at Lehigh), faced some really tough challenges while preparing for college.

“I felt that I failed her by not giving her the

strategies and insight to manage her stress. It wasn’t just her; I saw similar issues with her friends, my stepchildren, my nieces and nephews,” she said.

After COVID, a friend’s son was dealing with such intense social anxiety that he couldn’t bring himself to leave the house. He stopped going to school. Taub did some digging and found a teen coach who changed this young man’s life. Within a month he was back at school with improved confidence and self-worth.

“I was so inspired by the coach’s influence, I took a leap of faith, left my 25-year tv career and became a certified teen coach in 2022, studying under the coach who changed that boy’s life,” she said.

Today, she is doing what she love: coaching teens so that when the time comes for parents to nudge them from the nest, they are ready to soar.

Taub primarily works with teens and young adults aged 12 to 25. She was shocked to learn that

I know that with the right mindset and tools, anyone can create a life they love, and I’m passionate about helping them find their way!

nearly 27% of Gen X and even more of Gen Z are predicted to live with their parents until they’re 30.

“I help teens understand that failure is just feedback, promoting the idea that we either win or learn,” Taub said. “I also hold sessions with parents to enhance the coaching experience. I emphasize that both parents and teens should take responsibility for where they are and recognize that our beliefs significantly influence our actions.”

Her motto and what she often shares with her clients is, “We become what we believe.”

Taub offers in-person sessions in New York City and Westport, but also has clients all over the country. She offers a range of packages from four to twelve weeks.

The first session is a complimentary 30-minute Zoom meeting: first half with parents, then the child. Taub suggests starting with a minimum eight-week package. Rate: $1,600, with a 10% discount for first-time clents.

Rate: $1600. *10% discount for first time clients

Handbook

CHALLENGES IN OUR COMMUNITY.

by lily caplan

SARA ROBBINS WRITING CONSULTANT

After Sara Robbins practiced law for many years at both a large Manhattan law firm and in-house at the 9/11 Memorial & Museum, Sara found her true passion as a writing professor, where she worked for over a decade at Fordham Law School.

After her time at Fordham and finding her love for helping students write, she started Sarah Robbins Consulting. Robbins assists students with college essays, supplements for college, private school essays, graduate school essays, as well as prepares them for interviews. She also takes on freelance writing projects.

“I love getting the student from the beginning of the process to the end. I have to say that the best part of my job is that I feel very excited when the essay’s completed,” Robbins said. “With the college application process, there’s so much that’s left up in the air but I feel fulfilled and good knowing that my client has a very strong essay.”

As the college process is always changing, admissions are constantly switching up what they are looking for. Robbins stays up to date with admissions by helping the students with research, following blogs and all the major counselors on social media.

“It’s always important for supplemental essays to

have something that is unique to that school that wouldn’t be a copy and paste for another school. I don’t do the homework for them. But, I kind of learn about it as I go… it’s changing so quickly that I always keep up with the trends,” she said.

I love getting the student from the beginning of the process to the end. I have to say that the best part of my job is that I feel very excited when the essay’s completed.

Wynter Warshaw, a marriage and family therapist, has a singular goal, to make her therapy room a safe space where my clients can feel both uniquely themselves as well as a part of.

After twenty years working as an actress in primarily film and television she found herself craving a career in which she could help others. She received her master’s degree in marriage and family therapy from Fairfield University, and then had the opportunity to join Bianca Rodriguez at You Are Complete Psychotherapy in downtown Westport.

She offers psychotherapy to individual adolescents and adults, as well as couples and families. She enjoys working with different types of family structures and values having a diverse range of clients. Additionally, she has specialized training in postpartum and perinatal psychotherapy and is particularly passionate about helping new moms.

“I believe in a whole-family approach, emphasizing the powerful role parents play in their children’s lives. My role is to help parents establish and clarify a plan to get back on track while giving them tools to take active roles in their children’s lives,” Warshaw said on her website.

Her therapy is rooted in empathy and practical strategies, Wynter fosters growth and resilience for individuals, couples, and families. Warshaw has extensive experience working with anxiety, depression, couples in crisis, relational issues, postpartum depression and anxiety, life transitions, addiction and other challenges.

She applies her expertise, knowledge and

evidence-based strategies in a collaborative way. She seeks to provide equal parts safety, challenge, discovery and transformation for her clients. Her niche background as an actor allows her to fully immerse herself in your experience.

“I believe in the inherent wisdom and strength of individuals, couples, and families. We all experience bumps along the road of life which can give opportunities for growth,”

Warshaw said. “There is great value in addressing our mental health with a trusted, empathetic provider.”

“I believe in the inherent wisdom and strength of individuals, couples, and families. We all experience bumps along the road of life which can give opportunities for growth,” Warshaw said.

“There is great value in addressing our mental health with a trusted, empathetic provider.”

Warshaw’s expertise, knowledge, and evidence-based strategies in a collaborative way. She seeks to provide equal parts safety, challenge, discovery and transformation for her clients.

WYNTER WARSHAW LMFTA YOU ARE COMPLETE PSYCHOTHERAPY

by HANNAH DEELY

1 RUSS HOLLANDER MASTER GOLDSMITH

Pear and Round

Shaped Diamond Ring, $33,000, Stamford; 203-363-2200

2 CHOPARD

Happy Sport

Diamond And Ruby Watch, $17,100, Greenwich; manfredijewels.com

3 ONDYN

Delphina Diamond Necklace, $2,800, Westport; lbgreen.com

4 NILI LOTAN

Capucine Shearling Jacket, $4,900, Greenwich; nililotan .com

5 PRADA

Nappa Leather Mini Bag, $2,750, Greenwich; saksfifthavenue.com

6 JL ROCKS

Emerald And Diamond Ring, $2,000, Westport and Greenwich; jlrocks.com

7 STATUS ANXIETY

Desolate Sunglasses, $100, Darien; dariensportshop.com

8 ASHA

Fiori Pavé Earrings, $395, Greenwich; ashabyadm.com

9 GUCCI

Flora Gorgeous Orchid Eau de Parfum, $168, Greenwich; sephora.com

10 JIMMY CHOO

Amel 50 Embellished Kitten Heel Pump, $1,495, Norwalk; bloomingdales.com

1 SONOS Roam 2 Portable Speaker, $179; sonos.com

2 BOSE QuietComfort Ultra Headphones, $429; bose.com

3 OURA Horizon Ring, $349; ouraring.com

4 RAY-BAN META Smart Wayfarer Glasses, $329; meta.com

5 BLUEJAY BIKES Electric Lite Bike, $1,995; bluejaybikes.com

6 THERABODY Depuffing Face Wand, $149, Greenwich; sephora.com

HOMEBODY

COZY PRESENTS to pamper the hibernators at heart

1 VERDURA 18K Yellow Gold and Diamond Zodiac Necklace, $9,500, Greenwich; famillegreenwich.com

2 GRAY MALIN

3-in-1 Holiday Puzzle, $20, Old Greenwich; back40mercantile.com

3 APPARIS

Faux Fur Slipper, $125, Greenwich; thefredshop.com

4 BROCHU WALKER

Cashmere Blend Fringe Duster, $798, Westport; brochuwalker.com

5 BREVILLE

Barista Touch Espresso Machine, $999.95, Westport; crateandbarell .com

6 UNHIDE

Marshmallow Blanket

(made of 90 percent recycled materials), $229; unhide.us

7 HENRY C. REID

Medium Inside Out

Diamond Hoops, $2,875, Fairfield; hcreidjewelers .com

8 HUDSON GRACE

Nuno Splatter Stoneware Mug, $18, Greenwich; hudsongrace.com

LOCAL CREATORS

THE ACCESSORY & JEWELRY BRANDS FUELING FAIRFIELD COUNTY’S DESIGN CULTURE

by nancy berger

Singular’s Brazilian Flair

Born and raised in Brazil, exfinance professional/local mother, Tainara Cruvinel started her brand, Singular in 2023. Inspired by Brazil’s unique designs and her desire for pieces that fit her busy mom-lifestyle, Tainara set out to curate a collection of female-designed handbags, shoes and jewelry imported from Brazil. Her handbag collection is especially unique.

Her handbags are made from Pirarucu skin, a giant Amazonian fish. Developed in Brazil, the unique tanning process is 100% organic and free of heavy metals, resulting in vivid colors, greater resistance, and unparalleled softness. Also sustainable, this practice supports the environment and the communities that depend on it. She strongly believes, “Each piece is chosen for its quality, uniqueness, and functionality, allowing women to express their individuality without sacrificing comfort.”

While she has a limited selection on her ecommerce site, the best way to discover Singular is by scheduling a private appointment at her showroom. She loves styling her customers and welcomes you to bring your friends.

She comes from a culture that cherishes its community and is creating that same community around her thoughtful brand. be-singular.com @singularctofficial

I’m not a designer, but a curator. I handpick handmade accessories that combine timeless design, a strong aesthetic, and authenticity.

tainara cruvinel

Eliburch Jewelry’s Wearable Art

Founded in 2022, by a local middle school teacher, Matthew Baca, Eliburch Jewelry is the culmination of his mother and grandmother’s love of jewels and his career journey that has allowed him to combine passion for education and his deep connection to design.

Every piece is handcrafted start to finish in NYC or in Jaipur, India by a multi-generation, artisan

designs have been featured in Vogue and GQ Magazines. Kudos to a man that has dedicated his life to educating children, while still exploring his creative nature…a true tribute example for all of us. Follow @eliburchjewlry eliburchjewelry.com

house. Every design is personal. From his signature zig-zag detail that represents the non-traditional, winding career path that led him to launch Eliburch, to his exploration of nature, art and ancient artifacts, you can see the passion infused into each creation.

The unisex designs are customizable. Clients can choose the gemstones, the metal. No two pieces are ever alike. In-stock pieces can be purchased exclusively on the website and will be available at select local stores in 2025.

Already boasting a cult following, Matthew’s unique

There is something so personal about jewelry and the thought of “why” we layer on what we do is intriguing to me.

matthew baca

this photo: Cacau Bolsas creates exclusive, handmade leather bags and accessories, founded in Goiânia, Brazil in 1996.

BE STILL THE HOLIDAYS

5 LESS STRESSFUL APPROACH TO THE HOLIDAY SEASON.

by samantha yanks // photography by abby cole photography

For those seeking the gift of tranquility this holiday season, NEW BEAUTY & WELLNESS offers a luxurious selection of treatments and products that nurture both body and mind. With locations in Westport and New Canaan, NB&W specializes in aesthetic care and holistic wellness, making it a go-to destination for balance and rejuvenation. Their range of services, from customized facials and therapeutic massages to top-tier medical-grade skincare products, is designed to elevate well-being and promote inner peace. Here are our top 5 Zen Gifts to Give and Be Grateful to Receive from New Beauty & Wellness.

2 Gift Cards

Elevate the holiday season with the gift of luxury. New Beauty & Wellness gift cards are the perfect way to escape the holiday hustle and indulge in calm relaxation and pure tranquility. Treat yourself or a loved one to peace and rejuvenation.

1 Restorative Journey

Experience total harmony through a unique blend of advanced body therapy and energy work. This exclusive treatment promotes emotional balance, enhances energy flow, and guides you into deep relaxation and restoration.

4 Advanced Energetics Facial

Experience the transformative power of NB&W Advanced Energetics Facial, a holistic treatment designed to harmonize mind, body and spirit. This unique facial is customized to each client’s needs while integrating chakra balancing, energy work and massage techniques. Their facial experts will work through facial elements while restoring energetic equilibrium leaving you with vital energy, balance and radiant skin.

Ask for Jennifer, Stephanie or Andrea.

3 Advanced Acupressure Mat

The Shakti Mat blends ancient Eastern wisdom with modern science to promote balance for both mind and body. By stimulating key acupressure points, it enhances circulation, relieves tension, and triggers endorphin release, creating a serene and revitalized feeling.

5 Detox Mud Treatment with NB&W Signature Massage

experience

Eliminate tension and toxins with a detoxifying mud treatment, combined with NB&W signature massage. This indulgent experience deeply relaxes, rejuvenates skin, and prevents cellular fatigue, leaving you feeling refreshed.

home

Custom Gifts, UNCOMPLICATED

FRAMEBRIDGE OPENS ITS DOORS IN DOWNTOWN WESTPORT WITH PICTURE-PERFECT TREASURES FOR THE SEASON OF GIVING. by

samantha yanks

Longtime fans of Framebridge celebrated when the stylish, userfriendly framing experience opened its doors in downtown, featuring delightful petal pink walls and a genuinely helpful team that transforms the often daunting task of framing into an enjoyable one. Originally an online-only business, Framebridge is rapidly expanding its retail presence, and Westport marks its first location in Connecticut, with New Canaan

and Darien set to follow soon. They provide custom framing for a wide range of items, including art, photos, and documents. Their straightforward pricing system, combined with thoughtful design recommendations, allows them to offer a “happiness guarantee.” With 55 frame styles, nine mat options, and 18 mat colors, customers have ample choice, along with personalized features like mat captions, story pockets, and brass plates.

left: Inside the Westport Framebridge store.

above: Founder and CEO Susan Tynan.

Founder and CEO Susan Tynan's mission to make highquality custom framing easy, beautiful, and affordable is clear. "We strive to be the easiest way to beautifully custom frame anything you love, and we take great pride in being part of the communities where we open our stores, "notes Tynan. "We believe the single best expression of who we are is what we put on the walls of our homes. We help everyone celebrate their life in their own space, through their own style. We hope to inspire people to frame with our gallery wall in our Westport store, filled with fun Westport mementos such as a vintage Hartford Whalers jersey, photographs from Compo Beach, a fine art piece from local artist Rena Barsanti,

We believe the single best expression of who we are is what we put on the walls of our homes. we help everyone celebrate their life in their own space, through their own style.

a playbill from the Westport Country Playhouse and many other Westport memories." She notes of the Westport location "we've been looking to open a store in Westport for a while now so that we can frame more fine art, photographs and memories in person. Westport is known as such a special town thanks to the best of what Connecticut has to offer - great beaches, creative neighbors and small town feel. I can't wait to see what Westport brings into frame!" 123 Post Road East, Westport, CT

SEASON GIVING

YOUR WAY TO HOLIDAY!

"Time and again, I’ve watched someone have an emotiona reaction to seeing a familiar photo framed. It’s powerful. Framing makes meaningful people, places, and things lasting and notable. Amid the beautiful chaos of the holiday season, a Framebridge gift allows someone to pause and feel." gift box to bring cheer year after year.

5 ways to Give a Thoughtful gift, your family checklist starts here!

Beloved Framed ornament

A small, personal treasure delivered in its own exquisite gift box to bring cheer year after year.

CREATE A GIFT IN STORE, IN MINUTES

Pop into the Westport shop where you can walk in and they'll print, frame, and beautifully box any photo from your phone in five minutes.

Make the old feel new

Relive the “i do” moments

Showcase those souvenirs

Help them brag on

Gather things they love

Simona Levin Founder of Winding Lane Design, Simona brings a classic approach to her designs — blending neutral palettes and relying heavily on architectural pieces and textures. Specializing in interior architecture and design, her portfolio includes residential homes in NY, CT, Boston, Miami and Nantucket.

1 L'OBJET Haas Stationery Box Set of 12, $115; bergdorfgoodman.com

“Who doesn't love a box of thick paper stock stationary.”

2 LINNEA Linnea Candle, Wood House, $42; shopterrain.com

“Tried and true for even the pickiest recipients .”

ALEXANDRA VON FURSTENBERG Slate Nut Bowl, $345; abchome.com

“In case you've overstayed your welcome.”

4 FIELDBAR Drinks Box/Orchard Orange, $219; bungalowdecor.com

“Easily fits a bottle of veuve clicquot!available in a myriad of colors.”

5 CLIC Laura Owens & Vincent Van Gogh, $95; clic.com

“This uber chic coffee table book - gives major impact long after the party is over”

simona levin

awards

CHEERS to 15 years!

SPECIAL THANKS TO ALL OF OUR 2024 SPONSORS

PLATINUM SPONSOR

EXCLUSIVE FURNITURE SPONSOR

VENUE SPONSOR GOLD SPONSORS

money matters

BY CAROL LEONETTI DANNHAUSER

GETTING A FIX ON FIXED INCOME

Sometimes stocks soar. Sometimes they sink. During choppy market movements over the past few decades, boring bonds have often helped portfolios weather the storm, providing income stability and security.

In 2022, though, when the Federal Reserve raised interest rates to combat inflation, stocks and bonds fell together. Since then, the yin and yang of stocks and bonds have been more like a yo-yo, especially when the Fed steps in.

What’s an investor to do?

Know what you’re buying and why, suggests Jim Pratt-Heaney, founding partner at Coastal Bridge Advisors in Westport.

“The bonds in that portfolio should be there for a specific reason—not because the market changed, only because your goals changed.”

According to Pratt-Heaney, there are several reasons to buy bonds: to balance a portfolio, to live on the income they generate or to manage accumulating cash—especially these days, as banks report near-record-high cash assets and aren’t enticing you with high interest rates to get more of your cash.

There’s interest to be had, however, and that’s where bonds can come in.

Generally speaking, bonds are loans you make to a particular entity, whether to a company, a municipality or a federal government. You hand over the principal, and that gets repaid when or as the loan matures. In return, you get interest.

Sounds simple, right? But a high-quality bond can take

LEAVING THE HERD

decades to mature. In the meantime, you might need your money and have to sell the bond on the secondary market, where prices fluctuate according to interest rates and other variables.

“And what happens when you’re holding a bond and you see the market going up 20 percent? You’re saying, ‘Why do I have this?’ and you dump your bond,” Pratt-Heaney says. “Or when interest rates go up and you say, ‘Wow, I can get 5 percent interest, guaranteed by the government. It’s nirvana! I’ll put all my money in Treasuries.’” Instead of falling victim to behavioral finance, he says, “You have to always be thinking, What’s my plan? What’s the return that I have to get?”

Pratt-Heaney suggests working from the inside out to determine how much to allocate to bonds and equities in your portfolio, versus following a preconceived notion (traditionally, 60 percent equities and 40 percent bonds).

“That 60/40 is meaningless now. You should keep your portfolio balanced in a way that’s personalized to you. There’s no magical

number. In my experience, people are more aggressive than they need to be and more aggressive than they realize they are.”

Even something as seemingly simple as a T-bill paying 5 percent interest, for example, warrants scrutiny: You’ll have to pay federal income tax on that interest, dragging down your returns. Better, perhaps, to consider municipal bonds, issued by your state, city or local government, which are free from federal income taxes. That can mean a tax-equivalent yield of 8 or 9 percent, versus 4 or 5 percent.

Tools exist to help you become a better-educated consumer. Many financial firms use the Monte Carlo simulation to help project potential outcomes over time, so if you want X number of dollars, and retirement is in 15 years, for example, you can build your portfolio to target those variables.

“You can take more risk, but why go to the edge of the building when you don’t have to?” the adviser says.

As straight forward as bonds may seem, hidden variables come into play when investing in these vehicles. “Many people don’t understand duration, the difference in quality, what a spread is. All of those things are important to know,” Pratt-Heaney says.

You can be like the rest of the herd and invest in a bond mutual fund, or you can choose what more and more investors are opting for: Separately Managed Accounts. With an SMA, you’ll own the bonds outright and a manager will control the activity according to your individual goal. While there might be a hefty investment minimum, “You can get these managed by professionals for fractions of a percent,” Pratt-Heaney says. “It’s so cheap to hire bond managers.”

Jim Pratt-Heaney

ANNUAL BENEFIT

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 5, 2024

people&PLACES

50th Season Spectacle

The Levitt Pavilion’s 50th Season GALA starring Peter Frampton and the Positively Thankful Tour rocked Westport with an historic concert event on September 15. The benefit event raised funds for the independent arts organization and its free programming and outreach and starred the iconic artist and now Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee. The spectacular concert event was made possible by the lead underwriting of the Arthur & Claudia Cohen Family Foundation and the pre-concert Gala Cocktail Party at Don Memo and Walrus Alley was sponsored by Roz & Bud Siegel. »

1 Jonathan and Lesley Plotkin, Levitt Pavilion Board Chair Janet Plotkin, Amanda and Dan Weisenfeld, Levitt Pavilion CEO Freda Welsh and Executive Producer Carleigh Welsh 2 Lead Gala Sponsors Art & Claudia Cohen and their post-show meet with Peter Frampton backstage 3 First Selectwoman Jen Tooker and Roger Leifer 4,5,6 Peter Frampton performing at the Levitt Pavilion 7 Jim and Robin Murphy 8 Sheldon and Joanne Kahan

THE LEVITT PAVILION’S 50TH SEASON GALA / Don Memo & Walrus Alley & Levitt Pavilion

Wellness Unleashed

Recess Performance Club’s grand opening showcased its holistic approach to wellness with workout classes led by celebrity trainer and founder, Eric Johnson and recovery offerings from local partners. The energy, support, and excitement from the community made this an unforgettable experience for all. »

1 Rich Labbadia, Barbara Labbadia, Jessica Labbadia, Gene Johnson, Barbara Johnson, Melissa Johnson, Jones Johnson, Roger Leifer, Jennifer Tooker, Eric Johnson, Jag Johnson, Jett Johnson, Zack Reed, Samantha Yanks, Jaime Beyda, Joe Rivieccio, Dana Bernstein, Elena Ridloff 2 Eric Johnson 3 Eric Johnson, Jennifer Tooker, Jenna Gerla 4 Emily from Skin Studio, Jacqueline Fidelman 5 Jimmy Pitaro 6 Sara Fields, Sarah Marshall, Sarah Halpern 7 Kathy Belzer 8 Samantha Yanks, Co-Founders of Recess Eric & Melissa Johnson 9 Luke from Squeeze Massage 10 Kelly Matregano

Martha Stewart x Chilewich

Guests gathered at the Chilewich Store in Manhattan to celebrate the launch of the design brand’s collaboration with Martha Stewart. The 20-piece collection consists of durable, distinctive, and easy-to-clean tabletop textiles (placemats, table runners, and coasters), flat-woven rugs, and tufted “Shag” floor mats, all made in the United States and suitable for indoor or outdoor use. “I’ve always admired the fabrication of Chilewich, and I’m so excited about this gorgeous collection, which is our first,” said Stewart. “I’m already thinking of the next!” W

1 John McPhee, Martha Stewart, John Edelman

2 John Rice, Joshua Kamei 3 Anna McPhee, Lulu McPhee, Loghan Bennett 4 Emma Dodds, Philippa Brathwaite

5 Phoebe AcheampongQuaye, Barrett Miningham

6 Deb Placey, Martha Stewart, Samantha Yanks 7 Darcy Miller, Ben Luckadoo, Kevin Sharkey, Martha Stewart

8 Rachel Terrace, Joseph Zarro 9 The Chilewich store window

10 Chrissy Tracey, Melissa Villa 11 Martha Stewart 12 Martha Stewart x Chilewich

MARTHA STEWART X CHILEWICH / Chilewich store in Manhattan

POWER PITARO

by samantha yanks // photography by katharine calderwood

With innovation, recommendations and customization at the forefront and a focus on personalization, ESPN Chairman

JIMMY PITARO is rapidly transforming sports content consumption and making the network’s mission to “ To Serve Sports Fans. Anytime. Anywhere ” an actual reality.

Like a graceful game of tennis, ESPN Chairman Jimmy Pitaro and I rallied backand-forth in his office at its Bristol headquarters about topics ranging from his early days as a litigator to becoming one of the most highly respected media executives globally. We discussed the aggressive roadmap he’s built with his team for the sports-broadcasting network, the largest cable networks in the U.S. With the launch of the ESPN+ direct-to-consumer streaming service and the forthcoming 2025 launch of Flagship, ESPN’s full-scale streaming service is set to transform the industry. With the hotly discussed retirement of Walt Disney Company CEO Bob Iger in 2026, who famously hired Pitaro, the suggestion of succession, while not the subject at hand, most certainly came up.

SY: Has sports always been a huge part of your life? It sounds like your parents were very involved in the recruiting process.

JP: Yes, sports have been a huge part of my life, always. I grew up in a household where the Yankees were on for 162 games, even while we were having dinner. I mean, the Yankee game started around 7 p.m.

We would sit down as a family for dinner, and if it was baseball season, the Yankees were on in the background. Notre Dame was on every Saturday. You know, I grew up in a Catholic household, and if you're Catholic and you live in New York, you're more likely than not a Notre Dame fan, because we don't have a huge college football program. It is kind of like you cheer for Yankees baseball and Notre Dame football. It's kind of odd, and interesting.

Even my mom was a huge sports fan. She does not watch the game when the Yankees are on the field because she's too nervous and she feels like nothing good can happen.

I feel like (that) in … my DNA … since I was three or four years old. And my wife didn’t understand it when she first met me. She didn’t understand the fandom and the level, the degree, the passion and now she gets it. She sees how it’s just a part of my being. My wife sang the national anthem at a Yankees game.

I heard about a sports law class, and I think that was the first time I said to myself, “OK, maybe I can combine both worlds.” So, let me back up a bit: I failed as an athlete in college, and so that was a wake-up call for me, and I decided I needed to figure out what I was going to do with my life.

SY: It’s a powerful realization, I am sure.

JP: That was my plan, but it didn't really play out that way. I graduated from law school and went straight into litigation, thinking that somehow, I'd be able to do litigation around the sports industry. But that's hard, and most of the folks who are involved there are very senior. You must really work your way up, and you also must be part of a law firm that specializes in that. I just didn't have it together enough to find the right law firm to chart a path to litigating sports cases. It just didn't happen. And as a result, I just took a job at a litigation firm. By the way, I thought that litigation was like sports, right? If I was going to be a professional athlete, at least I would be able to compete in the courtroom.

SY:And did the vision play out as you planned?

Samantha Yanks: How did your interest in sports start?

Jimmy Pitaro: For as long as I can remember, I've been interested in sports. I was an athlete as a kid, and I played the usual sports, but once I got to junior high school and high school it was football, basketball, baseball, and I loved all of them — but football was the sport that I was best at.

I started to get recruited for football (in) my junior year of high school, and then it really picked up my senior year. I went to Penn State football camp the summer before my senior year, and started to get a little bit more attention. And then I had to decide about whether I wanted to really go for it; meaning, like Division I athletics,

or focus on something that was more realistic, like Division I AA or Division 3. And I ultimately went with the latter; those were really the schools that were recruiting me.

Boston College looked at me for a minute. Holy Cross recruited me heavily, but I ultimately decided to just focus on Division I AA. And so, I ended up focusing on the Ivy Leagues, and I chose Cornell. And I literally chose Cornell for football. There was a recruiting coach named Pete Noyes, who is still very active with the school and very involved, but he was really, really kind to my parents during these recruiting visits. I made the decision to go to Cornell primarily based on this one recruiting coach.

She had a movie come out, and the Yankees asked her to sing the anthem, and I was on the field with my camcorder. This was like, 1999, and I was recording her and then recording the players. I remember my mother-in-law got mad at me because the video that I took was too focused on the players, because I was trying to make it somewhat artistic and capture her, but also the players. I was proud of it, but when I showed it to my mother-in-law, she was not. She didn't appreciate the video.

SY: Growing up in a household where sports were center stage, and then being an athlete yourself, when did it become something that you wanted to focus your career on?

JP: That's a good question. Probably not until I got to law school. When I was in law school,

JP: Definitely not. I started to litigate, and I hated it. I just hated it. I did it for a couple of years, and I was about 24 years old, and I was up against folks in their fifties, and it was really challenging. I learned a ton, and I feel like it helped make me who I am today, but it wasn't for me. So, I decided to leave litigation and go into transactional work, which changed my life.

SY: When in your journey through law did you get the media bug? Personally, I have always had a passion for our industry, so I am always interested in how those who are super successful, like yourself, charted their path. Often it is not a traditional trajectory. JP: Yeah, my path is a gigantic zigzag. I was watching an Eagles documentary on Netflix, and Joe Walsh, the guitarist and singersongwriter — from the Eagles band, not the Eagles football team — was being interviewed. He said,

this page: Pitaro’s focus has always been evident as he discusses navigating his career.

When I started the interview process for the ESPN job, my wife and I said, if this happens and if we move, it's Westport. So, we had complete clarity.

this page: Jimmy and Jean Louisa have navigated their careers in tandem happily bringing the couple to their home in Westport.

“You know, living my life, I always felt like it was like this complete and total mess, this cacophony. And now when I look back, it seems to me to be a beautiful symphony.” Similarly, for me, there was no linear path leading to ESPN. It was very, very messy. But to answer your question, it was when I met my wife (Jean Louisa Kelly), that I really had not had much interest or exposure to the media industry. She had been an actress since she was a little girl, and I got very involved in her career. I immersed myself in it and learned a ton. I was helpful to her as a lawyer a tiny bit, but she had a whole team representing her, so she didn't need me. But I was fascinated by what she did. So, I started to read the trades and just really educate myself. And then it was her career that took us to the West Coast, which was the trigger for me quitting my job in New York. She got on a television show that was shooting in Vancouver, and I walked into my law firm and resigned, we were married at this point, and we moved to Vancouver for her career.

SY: I hate to suggest a spoiler alert, but I’m guessing things did not go as swimmingly as planned.

JP: Yeah, then her show got canceled! You know, we were rookies, we were in our midtwenties, and we were told that the show was going to “run forever,” so I quit my job.

We sold our charming little apartment in the West Village of Manhattan and moved ... And the show: I think she shot nine episodes, and then they canceled it on Halloween in 1999. We put our dog Pags, who was named after Yankees 3B Mike Pagliarulo, in this van that the production crew let us borrow, and drove down to Los Angeles from Vancouver. My wife immediately signed what's called a talent holding deal with the CBS network. It was a multiyear commitment. So, we were like, OK, L.A. is going to be home now. So, I started to put my feelers out for a media job, and I decided that I did not want to do television or film because that was her industry. I knew I loved music. So, I went the music route, and I landed a job as an in-house attorney for a music internet company. And

that changed my life because that was my first step into media and entertainment, and my first step into technology.

And I loved it; I really loved it. The company had just gone public, and it was thriving. It was music and it was a joy, and I was surrounded by young, smart, energetic people. Then we got caught up in the bubble bursting and were running out of cash, and we made the tough decision to look at potentially selling the company.

We started to engage with large tech firms and, long story short, Yahoo! ended up buying us. I did the deal with an outside firm helping, and then I decided to stay on board with Yahoo. And I did that for a few years as an in-house lawyer/business affairs guy. Then I got the huge break. The guy who was running Yahoo Sports left. His boss knew me because I had done some deals for him on the music side, but also knew that I was not only an athlete but a huge sports fan. And so, he asked me to lunch one day, and he asked if I would be interested in running Yahoo Sports. I was somewhat incredulous at the time because I was managing twelve people as a lawyer. And so, this was going from managing twelve people doing deals to running an organization of over 1,000 people with front-end engineers, back-end engineers, designers, marketers, sales, every aspect. At the same time, I said, “Well, this is my opportunity.”

SY: I’ve followed your career for some time, and I have to say, going on this journey with you and getting the behindthe-scenes play-by-play is fascinating. So that was the moment, right?

JP: Exactly! That was the moment where I left law, which was a defining moment for me. Truthfully, it was a huge risk because I know the law, and I knew I could practice for the rest of my life and earn a good living.

SY: Right, to be secure and safe but this is the risk many wonder about taking, following your passion.

JP: Yup. And I decided to follow my passion. So, I took the job at Yahoo Sports, and it went well, I immersed myself in it and the

guy above me then left. And fast forward, within a couple of years they asked me to run all of Yahoo Media. I went from running Yahoo Sports to now news, finance, entertainment, games and more. I was running the Yahoo Los Angeles office which had thousands and thousands of people. It all happened very quickly for me. And as I looked at the competitive landscape, I would wake up every day saying to myself, we need to beat ESPN.

SY: In the back of your mind did you think I want to beat them and one day I want to work there? Now you’re here and hit the pinnacle.

JP: No, I can't tell you that that was the plan. It would seem logical that first I would want to beat ESPN, then join them. But it was just a focus on beating ESPN, the standard, that was it, that was my motivation, and it was everyone's motivation, and we did it. And that's, I think, how I initially got Bob Iger's attention.

this page: Meaningful awards and collectibles displayed on the shelf of his at-home office including a 2020-2021 Sports Emmy.

Interestingly, Dave Goldberg, who hired me at that music startup earlier in my career, married Sheryl Sandberg, who was the chief operating officer at Facebook. She joined the board of Walt Disney Co. in 2010. As soon as she joined, she called me to say she was unhappy with the Disney interactive leadership, which was one of the five segments at the time. She asked if I would be interested in meeting with Bob Iger. At first, I said no, because things were going so well for me at Yahoo, and I'm a very loyal person. I was on a good path and the thought of leaving when things were going well, when it was all working and clicking, seemed nuts so I politely declined. A couple of months went by, and she called me back, and she suggested I just take the meeting. So, I went over to Iger’s house on a sunny Sunday afternoon in Los Angeles, and it was supposed to be, I think, at most a one-hour meeting, but it was several hours. I remember leaving his house feeling like I wanted to work for

this man. That was the moment I decided to leave Yahoo and join Disney.

SY: For you, growing the ESPN community is key but keeping the core is essential, too. How do you feel that you're best getting kind of the next consumer and keeping the one that you have engaged within the ESPN ecosystem for some time?

JP: So that's the challenge. The challenge is to expand your audience and not disrupt your core audience in the process. The way we're looking at it is we're running parallel paths. And what I mean by that is we will continue to be available to fans that want to buy or access ESPN in the traditional ways. For example, DirecTV, Comcast, Cox, Charter or Dish. There are many, many millions of people and households that are quite happy with the value they're getting from the cable or satellite model. And we're going to continue to be there. At the same time, we know that there are over 60 million households in this country alone that either have cut the cord or have never subscribed to the traditional linear ecosystem. And that's a tremendous opportunity for us. If you have 60 million people or households on the sidelines, we feel like we need to give them the opportunity to purchase ESPN in the way they want to purchase ESPN, meaning à la carte.

SY: So, give us a snapshot of what the future of ESPN looks like.

JP: If you want to buy just ESPN, come this time next year, you'll be able to do that again. If you are very happy with what you're getting today, meaning the value in that traditional ecosystem and you want more than ESPN, you want almost all sports content, and you want general entertainment and news, we're going to continue to be there. The bottom line is we want to be everywhere. And ultimately, we're going to evaluate ourselves based on the total number of households that are subscribing to ESPN.

That cuts across the traditional model and these new models. For example, direct-to-consumer. Then on top of that, it's accepting the fact that many people in including

or especially younger people, are very happy with the YouTube, Instagram and TikTok experiences. We need to be present on those third-party platforms as well, and importantly, present in a way that is not just marketing.

SY: It must be authentic entertainment, real content in real time. When I look at your approach it is innovation, personalization and what is the next-gen going to engage in.

JP: Yes, it's got to be in the format that younger people are accustomed to or looking for, meaning bite-size, short-form content. We have a team here of over 60 people that do nothing but create content or identify content for our ESPN handles on third-party platforms. We are the No. 1 media brand in the world on TikTok. If you look at our growth on Instagram and on X and on Facebook, it's great across the board. So that's the social bucket. Then on top of that is YouTube. And we're creating content natively for YouTube on a regular basis. So, we do both.

We will take clips from linear television, put it up on YouTube, or we will have a portion of Pat McAfee's show air live on YouTube, or we will create content specifically for YouTube. So again, the idea is we need to be everywhere. Our mission is to serve the sports fan anytime, anywhere.

There are certain platforms that are more lucrative than others. But from our perspective, if it truly is fan-first, we need to be everywhere and accept the fact that some of these platforms might not be as lucrative as others because you're sharing the revenue. But that's OK, because my job is to think brandfirst, fan-first, and think long-term.

SY: For you, studio content is a point of differentiation in the sports landscape and sits squarely in the ESPN ecosystem. Is it something that our community really wants?

JP: Great point. It starts with an understanding of ESPN's DNA. The way I look at it is that ESPN is the place of record. So, when something happens in the sports industry, you better hear it first from us and historically you have. So that's why people tune into

ESPN. They don't just hear it from us first; they hear it from us reliably.

SY: And, authoritatively, and with charm and charisma, as you have noted.

JP: Exactly. And by the way, with wit and heart and humor. We also have this megaphone that you're identifying with our studio programming that is really a differentiator for us. When you look at the sports industry in general, who else is covering sports 24/7 across a multitude of networks? No one is.

It's a huge advantage of ours when we sit down with the leagues to negotiate rights deals. They love the fact that they're getting all this promotion from ESPN. And if you were to talk to Gary Bettman right now, who's the commissioner of the NHL, he will tell you that the period, which was over a decade, that he did not have a partnership with ESPN was painful for him and for the league because he was getting less promotion and less amplification.

It’s helpful for us from a league and rights perspective. But it's also, as I said, part of who we are, which is the place that you turn to when sports happen, when breaking news happens. And that is one of our priorities, quality storytelling and programming. Again, when you tune in to Get Up or First Take or SportsCenter, Pat McAfee, Pardon the Interruption, Around the Horn, when you tune into any of that programming, you're getting the news, but you're getting it delivered with charm. And that, to me, is who we are.

SY: Going back a bit: There are a variety of revenue channels for ESPN, part of what you oversaw in your earlier days was gaming at Yahoo Sports. Can we talk a little bit about gaming?

JP: You're right in that. I have a long history in this space. So going back to Yahoo Sports, their most important asset was fantasy. And we were No. 1 in fantasy, which was a significant source of pride for the team.

When I left Yahoo and joined the Walt Disney Company, I was hired to lead a segment called Disney Interactive, which was one of the five segments: theme parks, movies, television, consumer

products and Disney Interactive. Part of the mandate, or my mandate, was games. And when I started in October of 2010, we had just acquired several vertical game studios. The Walt Disney Company was suddenly in the game development business, not just the licensing business where we would grant a company the right to use our intellectual property in their games.

We were now doing that, but also creating our own games, writing the code. We had software developers, hundreds of them, working for us, and you can understand how that happened. For so many years, folks have been talking about the emergence of gaming and the power of games and the next great media frontier. And again, rewinding to 2010, we saw the opportunity, we saw the potential, and so went out and started buying up these game studios. The problem is, it's a really hard business and also very tough to predict and its resource intensive.

While we had hundreds of engineers, we were competing against enterprises that had thousands, I imagine. And while we had far superior IP, in my mind, we did not have far superior developers. And I had to make the very tough call of exiting most of the vertical game development. Now, just to back up, when Bob Iger hired me, he gave me a very clear mandate, which was get this business to profitability. So going back to my point on there being five verticals, only one of them was losing money, and that was mine, Disney Interactive.

We were losing hundreds of millions of dollars a year. Bob hired me and really wanted me to focus on turning it around financially. I saw an opportunity to consolidate things, cut a lot of what we were doing, and focus on our websites, our apps, our short form video, and the licensing of our IP to game developers. We went from losing hundreds of millions to making hundreds of millions within a three- or four-year period. That was a very pivotal time for the Walt Disney Company to get that business turned around. And I take some pride in that. But it was also very, very challenging. And then in 2014, Iger decided to merge physical consumer products and

I am in my dream job as an athlete and someone who spent years competing against ESPN, then spent years at Bob Iger's table and really immersing myself in this place. I just love it.

I love the culture. I love the people. I love the opportunities in front of us .

Disney Interactive together and create one segment. We went from five segments to four at Disney, and he asked me to lead that, which I did for several years. That was another stretch opportunity for me.

I had no consumer products experience, zero. But I learned the business and I liked it. And then in 2017, the person who was running ESPN resigned. And so, Bob then asked me to move to Connecticut. And here I am.

SY: Iger’s name has come up a variety of times in this conversation and his retirement in 2026 is public. Your name has been continually discussed as the heir. Do you speculate? Is that something that you think about? Do you enjoy being asked about it?

JP: I will honestly answer your question. It is not something I enjoy discussing. But I will tell you without any hesitation that I am in my dream job as an athlete and someone who spent years competing against ESPN, then spent years at Bob Iger's table and really immersing myself in this place. I just love it. I love the culture. I love the people. I love the opportunities in front of us, especially what we've talked about already, which is making our networks available direct-toconsumer à la carte, over-the-top. We have a complicated and robust product roadmap and that takes all my attention.

Our new year started on October 1, so when the leadership team and I got together we discussed our upcoming priorities. We have so much to do over the next year, really over the next five years, to be honest with you. We do a five-year plan every year for the Walt Disney Company, and it's complex. And so that is, and I'm not copping out here. I'm just telling you honestly, that is where 100% of my focus is.

SY: Let’s talk Westport

JP: I absolutely love Westport, and I honestly believe that this will be our last home base. I grew up in

Westchester County, it's not technically New England, but it might as well be. But I'm a Connecticut and Westport fan. I'm converted.

SY: You're all in?

JP: I'm all in.

SY: Why Westport?

JP: My wife has a very dear friend Andrea who introduced us in 1994 in Westhampton and lives in Westport. When we would come back from L.A. to visit my wife's family in Massachusetts or my family in New York, we would go visit Andrea. And we would always say, “Wow, if either of our careers ever brought us back to the Northeast, this is where we would live.” We would go for visits to Compo Beach and have great meals at quaint little restaurants. Fast-forward to December of 2017. When I started the interview process for the ESPN job, my wife and I said, if this happens and if we move, it's Westport. So, we had complete clarity. When you add the amazing public school system, the sports, the great theater community, specifically the Westport Playhouse, a place where my wife has performed and a fan of forever, it was perfect.

My kids are both active in the arts community, my daughter was a Staples Player and thrived in that community. My son was, and is, a musician, and so it’s been great for the two of them. My son was also a boxer, and we have this amazing boxing facility run by Rich Dean on the Post Road, who he trained with for years.

SY: And finally, let’s talk location.

JP: We love being near the water. When we first moved, we rented a house for three months near Compo, and we contemplated buying the house that we were renting, but it was just a tad too small. So, we moved inland to Greens Farms and just love it. We're less than a mile away from the water. So, yes, that's it. We're all in.

this page: When not at ESPN's Bristol Headquaters or on the road traveling, Pitaro works from his home office.

Highlights from Jimmy Pitaro’s Storied Career MILESTONE MOMENTS

Bristol, CT

Pitaro,

ESPN Employee Town Hall // 2018 Bristol, CT

Bob Iger and Pitaro during the 2018 ESPN Employee Town Hall.

The Captain Screening // 2022 Bronx, NY

Pitaro and Derek Jeter during the screening of The Captain at Yankee Stadium.

In the Arena: Serena Williams // 2024 New York, NY

BMCC Tribeca Theater: Pitaro, Lauren Fisher, Serena Williams, and Gotham Chopra attending In the Arena: Serena Williams at the 2024 Tribeca Premiere and Screening.

Sports Humanitarian Awards // 2019 Los Angeles, CA

Billie Jean King and Pitaro on the red carpet during the 2019 Sports Humanitarian Awards presented by ESPN.

Leadership PremierCreativity & Innovation // 2019 Hantora, Cl

Pitaro during the 2019 Leadership Premier - Creativity & Innovation.

Sunday Night Baseball // 2019

Boston, MA

Bill Kasmussen and Pitaro before the Sunday Night Baseball Game at Fenway Park.

NBA Finals // 2023 Miami, FL

Adrian Wojnarowski, Pitaro, and Sean Pitaro during game four of the 2023 NBA Finals at the Kaseya Center.

Campus Tour // 2022

Joe Buck, Jay Harris, Hannah Storm and Troy Aikman on the SportsCenter set during their Main Campus Tour of ESPN.

Monday Night Football // 2023 Inglewood, CA

Bob Iger and Pitaro during Monday Night Football at the SoFi Stadium.

LIGHT A FIRE

My mother taught me.” “My husband inspired me.” “My kids are involved, too.” “My sister is a changemaker.”

Giving as a family tradition is a theme that emerged this year among the winners of our annual Light a Fire contest. Every November we honor those in our towns who give selflessly to support causes near and far—those who light a ﬁre in the hearts of their relatives, friends, colleagues and greater community, spurring on charity and compassion, changing and saving lives, and spreading hope. And who doesn’t need a little hope this November?

So turn off the television, silence the phone and settle into a comfy spot, perhaps near a glowing fire, and give these ten upstanding citizens your full attention. After you’ve read their stories, share them with a family member. Then think about what kindling you might contribute to one of the inspiring fires your neighbors have sparked, or even build one of your own. »

by jill johnson mann • photography by katharine calderwood

Andi Sklar

Ahmad Mickens

Nicole Heath

Dede Thompson Bartlett

Marie Rocha

Catherine Erol Edith Presley

Adam Vengrow

Lauren Walsh

Nate Checketts

Andi Sklar

ORGANIZATIONS

CONNECTICUT CHILDREN’S, SHAKE IT FOR SHEA, PINK AID, AL’S ANGELS

INSPIRATION

Andi Sklar first became intrigued by giving back when she saw her big-hearted husband in action. “When I met Scott, he was very involved in an organization for a friend’s son who had an orphan disease [extremely rare and deadly diseases affecting less than 200,000 people],” explains the Westport resident. “I admired them for all they did. Once my kids were old enough and I wasn’t working, I had time.”

She offered to chair the preschool committee at Temple Israel and then began hosting shopping events and giving a percentage to charity. From that start, dipping her toe in the many philanthropic causes around town, she was soon making a big splash on the altruistic scene.

WORDS OF PRAISE

“With a heart of gold and drive to always do more, Andi has been an instrumental force in helping to raise awareness for Connecticut Children’s. Because of her efforts, countless families have received the highest quality care for everything from broken bones to pediatric heart conditions, right here in Westport.”

Dr. Robyn Matloff, Director of Connecticut Children’s in Westport

COURAGE INTO ACTION

Andi discovered Al’s Angels, an organization that supports families through health and financial crises, and had the idea to set up lemonade stands around town so her kids could also participate.

“Al got cookies and lemonade donated,” she says. “We had stands all over. Then Covid hit.” Around that time Andi’s aunt was diagnosed with breast cancer, which sparked Andi’s involvement with Pink Aid. She took on the role of auction chair during the pandemic and then event chair for two years.

Recently, Andi has focused her attention on Connecticut Children’s, which now has a specialty care center right in Westport. “Robyn Matloff, the director, reached out to see if I would come for a tour,” explains Andi. “At the time I had no idea there was a freestanding children’s hospital in Connecticut. Scott came with me. He had spent a lot of time in children’s hospitals and was blown away. Robyn asked if I would help set up tours. People would arrive wondering why they were there and leave saying, ‘Wow!’”

Andi formed a committee and began spreading the word. “People want to get involved,” she says. “The staff is so wonderful. It’s such a feel-good place. To volunteer for something especially where kids are involved, it’s another level.”

Andi is also raising awareness for Hearts in Harmony Foundation, a local charity set up by Kira and Mark Greenfield. Their daughter, Shea, was diagnosed with Long QT syndrome—a life-threatening heart condition—the day she was born. An annual event, Shake It For Shea, and a golf event, Shank It For Shea, raise funds for research. “I introduced Kira to Dr. Robyn Matloff, and we came up with ideas for how the organizations can help people together,” says Andi.

HOPES AND DREAMS

“I hope the community becomes more involved with Hearts in Harmony and CT Children’s,” says Andi. “I hope we see everyone talking about mental health and see that focus grow here at CT Children’s. I would love to see a lot of money raised through Shake It for Shea.”

ORGANIZATIONS

RF YOUTH

BOXING, REVOLUTION TRAINING ACADEMY

Ahmad Mickens

INSPIRATION

“I grew up in New Jersey near East Orange. It was pretty rough. I didn’t know a lot of people who looked like me who had professions that inspired me,” explains Stamford’s Ahmad Mickens. “I got into a lot of trouble.” Then he found boxing. “Going to the gym, getting in shape, having people to support me—it gave me an identity,” he says. “I had my first wins. I don’t even mean in the ring—my first wins in life. Being able to jump rope, to lift more weight—those little wins started adding up and building my confidence.”

Ahmad couldn’t wait to give that opportunity to others. “To see people succeed is my inspiration,” he continues. “It’s also what my mother taught me. She was big into giving back. We took clothes and shoes over to Senegal in my teen years.” Ahmad plans those same trips for his sons: “It’s my little impact on the universe, to create a tradition of service.”

COURAGE INTO ACTION

Ahmad began training a client base of successful individuals in Connecticut and “watched and learned” from them. In 2005, he took the leap and opened his own gym, Revolution Training, in Stamford. “Some youth came in. Historically, boxing gyms have attracted a lot of the disenfranchised, underserved youth,” he explains. “They reminded me of myself.” They didn’t have money, but Ahmad made a deal with them: “Show up 3 to 5 p.m., Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and I’ll work with you.” They did. Then more kids

showed up and RF Youth Boxing was born.

Ahmad formed a 501c3 and launched an annual fundraiser, a “White-Collar Boxing” event. He’s committed to giving kids the same quality experience his high-end clients receive. “The space is always clean, organized and safe,” says Ahmad, who also hosts career days. “Without the program, these youth wouldn’t have access to individuals who can help change their lives,” he explains. “It’s opening up their minds to think ‘Maybe I can be a doctor or a carpenter or own my own company.’”

One protégé, Chordale Booker, is a pro boxer and made it to the Olympic trials. “He is now one of the top boxing coaches in Connecticut,” says Ahmad. “We have many success stories.”

With Senator Pat Miller’s support, Ahmad formed the Revolution Training Academy, which offers boxing, personal training and fitness business certifications, as well as apprenticeships.

HOPES & DREAMS

“I hope to continue to produce quality individuals who believe in service and take it to their own communities and households,” says Ahmad. He dreams of expanding his program to New Haven, New Jersey and beyond. “If I can plant the seed, I believe the program will grow and spread. I’ve been doing this for twenty years. The kinks are ironed out. I’d love to share it with other nonprofits and establish programs in areas that need it.” »

WORDS OF PRAISE

“Ahmad was the role model that I needed since I was a teen. He challenged me to think bigger, which has led me to being ranked eighth in the world in boxing.”

Chordale Booker

Nicole Heath

WORDS OF PRAISE

ORGANIZATIONS

CONNECTICUT AGAINST GUN VIOLENCE, PLANNED PARENTHOOD, REACH PREP, FRESH AIR FUND, AMHERST COLLEGE, MCKENNA COLLEGE

INSPIRATION

Over ten years ago, fellow volunteer Leslie Bhutani reached out to Nicole Heath to see if she had any interest in gun violence prevention. “At the time, we weren’t yet the very close friends we would become, so she didn’t know my only sibling had taken his own life with a handgun,” says Nicole Heath. CT Against Gun Violence (CAGV) was a small organization when Nicole eagerly became involved. Then the Sandy Hook tragedy occurred.

COURAGE INTO ACTION

“CAGV ended up successfully advocating for the strongest gun safety laws in Connecticut’s history—with bipartisan support,” says Nicole, a Greenwich resident. Connecticut reached nearly the top of states for the strongest gun violence prevention laws, “a position we still hold with nearly unanimous support from our Greenwich delegation,” she adds. Nicole made many treks to Hartford to testify as a survivor and spearheaded the growth of CAGV’s annual benefit luncheon from 100 guests to 300. “Our luncheon keynote speakers have done such a good job of educating people on community gun violence prevention programs and suicide prevention,” says Nicole. “Suicides account for nearly two-thirds of all

“During her tenure on the board, from 2013 to 2023, Nicole did more to ensure the financial health of CAGV and the CAGV Education Fund than any other individual board member over our organization’s 30-year history. Her commitment to the cause of ending gun violence in Connecticut demonstrated by her time, effort and passion underlies much of CAGV’s success over the past decade.” Jonathan Perloe, CAGV Marketing Director

handgun deaths in Connecticut— and in the U.S.”

Nicole chaired the Development Committee of the CAGV Board for many years and credits CAGV Marketing Director Jonathan Perloe and her co-chairs—Mary Himes, Cynthia Blumenthal, Leslie Bhutani, Amy Keohane, Amy Pines, Sophie Dowling, Pat Caffray, Melissa Kane and Daisy Sanders—for many successful events (including the premiere of Thousand Pines at Westport Country Playhouse and Gun Country in Greenwich). “Our friends were right there filling tables and raising their paddles with such generosity,” she adds. From recruiting volunteers and business sponsors to organizing private fundraisers in donors’ homes, Nicole has been tireless and creative in her efforts to further CAGV’s mission in Connecticut and beyond. “Other states use our laws as templates for their own, so in that sense we have a national impact,” she notes.

In the past, Nicole has chaired fundraisers for Planned Parenthood, REACH Prep and Fresh Air Fund. Her family has hosted a young man from the Bronx every summer and a Colombian teen during his boarding school breaks. Nicole currently sits on boards at Amherst College and Claremont McKenna College.

HOPES AND DREAMS

“We are so lucky to have Governor Ned Lamont 100-percent supportive of our cause,” says Nicole. “The federal story is very different, although President Biden has done more than any President on this issue since Clinton. Until GVP [Gun Violence Prevention] can be uncoupled from politics, we have to just keep fighting at the individual state level where a dozen or so states like ours have made real headway.”

Marie Rocha

ORGANIZATIONS

BOYS & GIRLS CLUB OF GREENWICH, LIVE GIRL, HAVYN, VESTHER, DEFY VENTURES, REALIST LAB, FAIRFIELD COUNTY COMMUNITY FOUNDATION, CT NEXT, CT PUBLIC

INSPIRATION

“My inspiration to give back is deeply personal, rooted in a profound belief in the transformative power of community and the life-changing impact of mentorship,” says Stamford resident Marie Rocha. “I’ve seen firsthand how the right resources, guidance and support can completely reshape someone’s future.”

This understanding has propelled Marie onto the boards of various nonprofit organizations, locally and nationally. “I’m particularly focused on initiatives that address the wealth gap, create equitable opportunities, support young people’s growth and development, and combat food insecurity,” she says. Marie sees these issues as foundational to creating a more equitable and thriving society.

COURAGE INTO ACTION

Marie has shared her passion and expertise with the Boys and Girls Club of Greenwich, serving on its Board of Directors and Executive Committee. “We’ve created safe spaces for young people to learn, grow and thrive. Many don’t realize the great wealth gaps that exist in Fairfield County and its effects on youth,” explains Marie. She has also served on the Live Girl Advisory Committee for two years, “supporting initiatives that empower young women, helping them build confidence and leadership skills.”

Through HAYVN Hatch, a quarterly women-centric pitch event, Marie helps pave the way

for women to launch and grow their own businesses. She is a founding member of VestHer, which supports and connects professional women and provides executive coaching.

Marie adds, “My work with Defy Ventures has been particularly significant as it involves helping formerly incarcerated individuals redefine their futures through entrepreneurship and personal development. All of my work led

WORDS OF PRAISE

“Marie focuses on aiding the most vulnerable at-risk populations, including children and seniors, promoting women’s empowerment programs and combating food insecurity. Over the past year, I have had the privilege of getting to know Marie, and I am deeply inspired by her approach and the impactful work she has accomplished. Notably, she is the only Black woman in Connecticut to own a venture capital fund, Realist Ventures.”

— Sarah Bamford

HOPES AND DREAMS

to the creation of Realist Lab, where we offer programs to help entrepreneurs throughout Connecticut create jobs and financial security.”

Last year, Marie joined several committees at the Fairfield County Community Foundation.

“I’m proud of our efforts around housing, health, civic engagement and closing other equity gaps,” she comments.

“I want to see these organizations grow and make a more significant difference,” says Marie. “For Boys & Girls of Greenwich, I dream that every child in the community gets the support they need to thrive. With Live Girl, I envision a future where young women are confident, capable and ready to lead in whatever direction they choose. For Defy Ventures, I dream of a world where second chances are the norm, empowering people to rebuild their lives and positively impact society. At Vest, I hope more women will be given equitable opportunities. Ultimately, my biggest hope is that our work today leads to lasting change and opens up new opportunities for generations to come.” »

WORDS OF PRAISE

“Dede Bartlett is a leader and visionary for New Canaan, as well as beyond the borders of 06840. She is a fierce advocate for women’s issues and has helped educate the community about domestic violence. While she is exceptionally generous, she is also exceptionally hard-working.”

— Nancy Geary, Executive Director, New Canaan Museum & Historical Society

INSPIRATION

“I take enormous joy in being able to make a difference,” says Dede Thompson Bartlett. “I feel grateful that I’m able to support causes that mean a lot to me and that aren’t necessarily glamorous but need funding and marketing support. There is exhilaration in making a difference. I’m mystified that more people don’t experience this joy. It’s not a question of money; the most important gift you can give an organization is time.”

COURAGE INTO ACTION

A former Fortune 25 executive, Dede is a member of the advisory boards of Domestic Violence Crisis Center and Legal Momentum: The Women’s Legal Defense and Education Fund. She founded the New Canaan Abuse Prevention Partnership. She and her husband funded the Bartlett Auditorium at the New Canaan Library and the Jim and Dede Bartlett Center for New Canaan History at the New Canaan Museum & Historical Society.

With decades of philanthropy to contemplate, she pinpoints three highlights. First, when she was at Phillip Morris, she proposed a project to the First Lady of Costa Rica: a traveling photo exhibition

to raise awareness about women who had been abused. “It was enormously successful,” says Dede. The President of Costa Rica credited the exhibition in his State of the Union address for the subsequent 50 percent reduction in homicide and partner abuse. Dede says, “It’s 20 years later, and I still haven’t gotten over that!”

Second, this year Dede gave the commencement address at NYU’s Tandon School of Engineering, where her dad was a professor. Dede, who earned her master’s degree from NYU, has funded internships there, encouraging over 100 young women to major in science, technology, engineering and math. She says, “I will never forget looking out at 8,500 people in Barclays Center, thinking, wow, this is a moment.”

Third, Dede worked for three years rescuing a woman, “a boldface name in our town,” from an abusive relationship. “She came to me and described the way she was living and asked, ‘Is this normal?’ I helped her and put a team together to advise her. She and her kids are now thriving,” says Dede.

HOPES AND DREAMS

“I want to see more women empowered in all areas of their lives,” says Dede. “I grew up in a time when women didn’t have the abilities they have now. Then they were taken away again last year. I want my daughter and granddaughters’ lives filled with options I didn’t have.” Dede is optimistic about her town.

“I have seen a tremendous change in New Canaan, by women who are change agents,” she raves. “They have imagination and vision.”

{ warrior for women }

Dede Thompson Bartlett

ORGANIZATIONS DOMESTIC VIOLENCE CRISIS CENTER, LEGAL MOMENTUM: THE WOMEN’S LEGAL DEFENSE AND EDUCATION FUND, NEW CANAAN ABUSE PREVENTION PARTNERSHIP, NEW CANAAN MUSEUM & HISTORICAL SOCIETY, NEW CANAAN LIBRARY, NYU, VASSAR COLLEGE

Adam Vengrow

ORGANIZATIONS

CATCH A LIFT, VETERANS OF FOREIGN WARS, HOLE IN THE WALL GANG

INSPIRATION

“One of my favorite quotes is: ‘You make a living by what you get, you make a life by what you give,’” says Westporter Adam Vengrow. “I grew up working hard for every penny I had. Now I’m fortunate to be in a position to give money and time to those who are fighting hard to achieve and succeed in life. Everybody needs a hand at some point. There is nothing more joyous than helping somebody climb their way to great achievement.”

COURAGE INTO ACTION

Adam became involved in Catch a Lift in 2013. The organization was founded by Lynn Coffland in the name of her brother, Corporal Chris Coffland, who was taken by an IED in Afghanistan. “His expression, his whole life, when you are burnt out was: ‘Let’s go catch a lift.’ It meant: Let’s go work out. Our theme is physical fitness to mental fitness. From Day 1, this was everything I believed in and the way I live my life. It has been ten great years, helping veterans use physical fitness to find mental fitness.”

Catch a Lift has spread to more than 2,600 cities and all 50 states. “We’ve helped over 13,000 veterans and caregivers get re-engaged with our four core pillars: nutrition, fitness, emotional wellness and community,” explains Adam. “We have veterans fighting through terrible adversity, from severe amputations and burns

to traumatic brain injuries and PTSD. They have done their job to fight for the freedoms we enjoy. Now it’s our job to help them reintegrate back into a life they deserve post serving.”

More than 85 percent of dollars raised go directly to the cause. “We have veteran coaches all over the country, helping other veterans heal with camaraderie and teamwork,” says Adam. “Our kids have been a part of this, and 2024 is our ten-year anniversary of Catch A Lift here in our neighborhood. Our town government, police, fire, gyms, restaurants, residents, schools— all are a big part. One of our veterans spoke to the Staples Varsity Football Team ahead of the season, and they won States!”

Adam and a friend are now spearheading an initiative to help rebuild and fortify Staple’s High School athletic facilities.

HOPES AND DREAMS

“You know that old adage about the child walking along the beach and encountering thousands of washed-up starfish? The kid starts picking them up, one by one, and throwing them back in the ocean. The parent says, ‘What are you doing? You can’t save them all,’ and the kid says, ‘But I can save this one.’”

“The ultimate end goal would be for every veteran and first responder to have all the support they need. They protect and serve our community and keep us safe, so we must do that for them when it is our turn.” »

WORDS OF PRAISE

“Adam’s contributions go far beyond the call of duty.

He dedicates countless volunteer hours each week to ensure that the needs of our veterans are met. His efforts have made a significant impact on the lives of many.”

— Phil Delgado, VFW Post 399 Quartermaster

Edith Presley

INSPIRATION

“I was raised to contribute to society,” says Edith Presley, President of Cradle to Career. “The mantra in the house was to make things better by the mere fact that you were involved. Individual influence and responsibility matter.” She progressed from substitute teacher to special education teacher, assistant principal, then principal before transitioning into the nonprofit sector. “I have two children in Stamford public schools,” says Edith. “What I want for them, I want for every child in the town: to feel a sense of belonging and have access to the great potential that our community and society offers.”

COURAGE INTO ACTION

“I’ve worked every tier of the education system in Stamford— from being a graduate of the public schools, graduating with a degree in psychology, and then starting as a substitute teacher and learning from the ground level how schools work and how important relationships are,” says Edith. “Then I was really intentional about going back to school and finding opportunities to give back while developing myself for a broader impact and greater reach.”

— Bianca Shinn, Domus Kids Leadership Council member ORGANIZATION CRADLE TO CAREER, DOMUS

“I love working at Cradle to Career,” says Edith, who came to the organization from Domus, an organization that works with at-risk youth, about three years ago. “It allows me to use my passion for families, students and education in a way that is limitless.” She enjoys being a partner to the school district

and supporting the hardworking staff, “who are many times strapped by compliance or limited resources. We are a collective impact organization, with a focus on research-based practices. We partner with other nonprofits that will champion ideas for change,” she explains. “It allows us to be an incubator for innovation.” Cradle to Career operates under the Strive Together methodology—a national accountability network—as well as under the United Way umbrella.

Edith has helped to secure significant federal funding to provide after-school and community-wide support for middle school students, in turn inspiring them and fueling engagement. She has offered her expertise in special education advocacy pro bono to ensure appropriate educational and social accommodations are made to help all children succeed.

HOPES AND DREAMS

“I dream for a living,” says Edith, chuckling. “For Cradle to Career, I hope that we can continue to grow and be really strategic about private and public partnerships, in order to highlight the value we bring as a community in Stamford. We are uniquely situated to be a proof point for the nation around how equitable practices bring about growth and change. With our data and our work, we can showcase how you can solve for inequity, how you can really be strategic around problem solving for poverty. I hope for civic engagement to increase for all facets of our community and society. Change happens when we are all involved.”

WORDS OF PRAISE

“Ms. Presley is a fierce champion and advocate for children in the Stamford community. In every aspect of her professional and personal life, she centers on children and takes a holistic approach to ensuring their social, emotional and academic needs are met, so they can thrive.”

Nate Checketts

ORGANIZATIONS

RHONE, BEYOND TYPE 1

INSPIRATION

“When my brother Ben and I started Rhone, we didn’t just want to create another apparel company. We wanted to build something that truly stood for something bigger, something that had a real point of view,” says CEO Nate Checketts, a Darien resident.

At the time, Nate was looking for ways to support a close friend who was going through a mental health crisis and battling addiction. “I came across some staggering information about the challenges men face with mental health and how loneliness was becoming an epidemic,” says Nate. “That hit me hard, especially as a father of three boys.”

In a market saturated with active brands focused on physical fitness, Rhone went deeper. “No one seemed to be addressing the need for a more holistic approach,” explains Nate. “That realization became the driving force behind Rhone, and our mission to champion mental fitness and the intersection of physical and mental health.”

COURAGE INTO ACTION

Rhone has backed up its mission with action through multiple avenues—from hosting a virtual race and donating proceeds of a race kit to co-sponsoring a Men’s Wellness Summit. The stores also hold “Mind & Muscle” events, which combine dynamic workouts with mental health discussions.

“These events have served as catalysts for building strong social connections and a supportive network,” says Nate. “In fact, we have a group of guys who have met lifelong friends and have become each other’s groomsmen through Mind & Muscle events. We’ve hosted thousands of men and

{ corporate good neighbor }

have now launched a similar event framework with women.”

As a former New Canaan football captain and MVP, Nate was eager to bring his message to players. Last November he put together a “Better Together” football dinner with the Wave Strong Foundation.

“We gathered 200 football players from rival high school football teams, the Darien Blue Wave and New Canaan Rams, ahead of the annual Turkey Bowl match-up, to have a very important conversation about mental health and how we can work together as a community to break down the stigmas that exist,” explains Nate. “If you know Connecticut high school football, you know this is a big deal! It was the first time these teams have done anything like this in the near 100-year rivalry.”

Nate, who was diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes at age 25, is also the Chairman of Beyond Type 1, a nonprofit organization focused on education, advocacy and a path to a cure.

HOPES AND DREAMS

“It is Rhone’s mission to impact over 100 million lives,” says Nate. “We hope to provide individuals with inspiring experiences that leave a lasting imprint to prioritize mental fitness alongside physical fitness. By nurturing a culture of wellness, resilience and community, my hope is that Rhone can continue to inspire and uplift, championing the belief that true wellness encompasses both physical vitality and mental fortitude.” »

WORDS OF PRAISE

“Nate has done so much for the communities of Darien and New Canaan. Mental health is extremely important to Nate, and he understands that it is something not spoken about often among men. He is trying to change that narrative.” — Katie Holmstead, Nate’s sister

Lauren Walsh

ORGANIZATIONS

GREENWICH YWCA, GEMS, AMERICAN RED CROSS MNYN CHAPTER, GREENWICH COUNTRY DAY SCHOOL, BERKSHIRE SCHOOL

INSPIRATION

“My mother inspired me. Twenty years ago, I was put on as a trustee of our family foundation which my mother and father formed,” says Riverside resident Lauren Walsh. “They wanted to focus locally, creating an impact with giving money in the Greenwich community and seeing its effect. My mom invited me to the Old Bags Luncheon at the Belle Haven Club 20 years ago, and I have been to every single one of them.”

COURAGE INTO ACTION

The Old Bags Luncheon is a YWCA initiative, which is where Lauren says she has made the most significant contributions—and also where she has learned the most.

“It has been quite an education in philanthropy, giving back, making a difference,” she says. She is vice chair of the board and has chaired the Spirit of Greenwich Awards, another YWCA fundraiser. She has also been involved with the organization’s Domestic Abuse Services program.

Lauren is passionate about GEMS (Greenwich Emergency Medical Services), sits on its board and has elevated the GEMS Back to the ’80s Gala to a memorable annual event. “We have the best ambulance service and heart attack save-rate in the nation,” says Lauren, “and a lot of people don’t realize GEMS is a 501c3. When you

are on an ambulance for GEMS, you are basically in an emergency room. There is a paramedic on every ambulance. GEMS is the local littleengine-that-could of nonprofits in Greenwich.” Lauren says she talks about “GEMS” so much that “a friend thought I had a lot of jewelry!”

Lauren is also on the board of The American Red Cross Metro New York North Chapter and has cochaired its Red and White Balls since 2022. She has also been a longtime supporter of Greenwich Country Day School and sits on the board of the Berkshire School in Massachusetts.

HOPES AND DREAMS

“I wish to live in Greenwich until my dying day and preserve what’s great about it,” says Lauren. “It’s a kind and caring community. It’s a happy place, and it’s beautiful. I’d like to see domestic violence not be the No. 1 crime in Greenwich; I would like to see it go away. I’ll continue to support the Harmony project at the YWCA. A woman was getting back on her feet, so I cleaned out my closet to bring her a new wardrobe. Her spirits lifted. It’s important to lift each other up. I look at the political season; I’m not a Republican, but I get along with our first selectman. We can all get along.”

WORDS OF PRAISE

“Lauren is one of the most committed board members, committee members and event chairs. For more than 20 years, she has dedicated her life to countless organizations and brought in amazing talent to join her along the way.”

— Stephanie Dunn Ashley, CEO American Red Cross MNYN

Catherine Erol

ORGANIZATIONS

INSPIRATION

“I have always been surrounded by and inspired by young people who are active community members,” says Catherine Erol, a Greenwich Academy graduate and Fairfield resident. “Youth involvement enriches our town and connects us. Instead of doom scrolling on the internet, we can make a noticeable difference in the lives of those around us.”

With the support of a school that values service and with several grants that gave her the backing she needed, Catherine proved even a teenager can make a big impact on neighbors in need.

COURAGE INTO ACTION

In Catherine’s senior year at Greenwich Academy, she was awarded a $1,500 grant. “This grant was essential and kickstarted my nonprofit,” she says. She partnered with Operation Hope and spearheaded a program called Backpacks for Hope.

“I learned that many parents were unable to purchase essential school supplies for their children,” explains Catherine. “Since education is the only hope many low-income students have, we thought the name was fitting. I used a majority of the initial grant to organize around 40 backpacks equipped with school supplies depending on the child’s grade. I also placed slime toys in the backpacks as a little back-toschool gift.”

With a small portion of the grant remaining, Catherine turned to the Internet for ideas for another initiative and came up with the idea

for her nonprofit, The Revolving Soap. “The hospitality industry throws away millions of barely used soaps. At the same time, thousands of people die every year from diseases that could have been prevented if they had access to soap. Recycling hotel soap reduces the waste the hospitality industry produces and increases hygiene,” explains Catherine. “While the idea sounds revolting at first, recycling soap is safe and saves lives.” Catherine has partnered with local Marriott hotels and the Delamar Hotel.

When Fairfield County Community Foundation extended a $5,000 grant, Catherine expanded her nonprofit and created over 1,000 menstrual hygiene kits, consisting of over 9,000 pads, which she donated to Operation Hope.

HOPES AND DREAMS

“We hope to assemble more of these kits,” says the 19-yearold. “With the rest of the money, we will continue our mission to increase access to hygiene in sustainable ways. Right now, I am exploring other methods of soap generation that are centered around sustainability and reducing waste. Around the world, people are making soap from leftover pineapple skin and plastic. There is room for researching new methods of converting waste into soap, which is very exciting!” G

WORDS OF PRAISE

“Catherine spends her free time scouring the internet for grants, connecting with local leaders, organizing volunteer meetings and making a tangible impact on the Fairfield County community. Her personal experiences drive her to make an impact in her neighborhood. And her passion is clear the minute you meet her. She is the epitome of a community changemaker, and I wish for others to learn about the positive impact she has on our community.”

Ceyda

Erol, Catherine’s sister

■

TOP LAWYERS IN FAIRFIELD COUNTY

Whether you need advice or have a legal issue, it helps to have a good lawyer. Luckily, Fairfield County is home to first-rate attorneys for legal assistance. We’ve compiled a guide of top lawyers who are leaders in their areas of expertise. With the help of DataJoe Research, this list of 364 professionals was created

ADOPTION LAW

VICTORIA FERRARA

The Ferrara Law Group

One Post Rd, Fairfield 203-255-9877 victoriaferrara.com

BRIAN D. KASCHEL

Brian D. Kaschel Law Office 183 Sherman St, Fairfield 203-259-5251 briankaschel.com

HEIDI E. OPINSKY

Attorneys at the Law

Offices of Heidi E. Opinsky

236 South Lake Dr, Stamford 203-653-3542 ctnydivorcelawyer.com

ANTITRUST LAW

DAVID S. GOLUB

Silver Golub & Teitell LLP 1 Landmark Sq, Stamford 203-325-4491 sgtlaw.com

APPELLATE LAW

LIAM S. BURKE

Russo & Rizio LLC 10 Sasco Hill Rd, Fairfield 203-254-7579 russorizio.com

ALEXANDER COPP

Cohen and Wolf PC 158 Deer Hill Ave, Danbury 203-792-2771 cohenandwolf.com

THOMAS J. DONLON

Robinson & Cole LLP 1055 Washington Blvd, Stamford 203-462-7549 rc.com

JAMES R. FOGARTY

Fogarty Cohen Russo & Nemiroff LLC 1700 E Putnam Ave, Old Greenwich 203-661-1000 fcsn.com

STEPHEN P. FOGERTY

FLB Law PLLC 315 Post Rd W, Westport 203-247-9299 flb.law

ZACHARY J. PHILLIPPS

Wofsey Rosen Kweskin & Kuriansky LLP 600 Summer St, Stamford 203-327-2300 wrkk.com

NORMAN A. ROBERTS II

GraberRoberts LLC 350 Bedford St, Stamford 203-590-1070 graberroberts.com

SAMUEL V. SCHOONMAKER IV Broder Orland Murray & Demattie LLC 55 Greens Farms Rd, Westport 203-222-4949 ctfamilylaw.com

ARBITRATION AND MEDIATION

JON A. AUGUST

Miller Rosnick D'Amico August & Butler PC 1087 Broad St, Bridgeport 475-241-0581 millerandrosnick.com

MICHAEL BECKER

Michael Becker JD MA 1 Kings Hwy N, Westport 203-454-4270 michaelbecker.net

JANE B. EMONS

Cohen and Wolf PC 1115 Broad St, Bridgeport 203-368-0211 cohenandwolf.com

JOHN J. LACAVA

Law Offices of John J. Lacava LLC 1111 Summer St, Stamford 203-324-2300 infolaw.com

DOUGLAS C. MINTZ

Carmody Torrance Sandak & Hennessey LLP 1055 Washington Blvd, Stamford 203-252-2658 carmodylaw.com

DEBORAH NOONAN

Deborah Noonan 10 Wall St, Norwalk 203-246-4741 divorcemediatect.com

JAY H. SANDAK

Carmody Torrance Sandak & Hennessey LLP 1055 Washington Blvd, Stamford 203-252-2699 carmodylaw.com

MAURICE SEGALL

Maurice Segall LLC 1111 Summer St, Stamford 203-359-1999 ctmediation.com

ATTORNEYS FOR NONPROFITS

JENNIFER PAGNILLO

Day Pitney LLP 24 Field Point Rd, Greenwich 203-862-7875 daypitney.com

AVIATION

ROBERT DANTE RUSSO

Russo & Rizio LLC 10 Sasco Hill Rd, Fairfield 203-254-7579 russorizio.com

BANKING AND FINANCIAL

DAVID KURATA

Russo & Rizio LLC 10 Sasco Hill Rd, Fairfield 203-255-9928 russorizio.com

WILLIAM PETROCCIO

Russo & Rizio LLC 10 Sasco Hill Rd, Fairfield 203-255-9928 russorizio.com

MATTHEW C. SUSMAN

Cohen and Wolf PC 1115 Broad St, Bridgeport 203-337-4236 cohenandwolf.com

BANKRUPTCY AND WORKOUT

MATTHEW K. BEATMAN

Zeisler & Zeisler PC 10 Middle St, Bridgeport 203-368-4234 zeislaw.com

through research as well as a peer-voting process. Planning ahead makes the process much easier, rather than seeking out an aatorney when a problem arises. Simply review what follows, find the relevant area of practice, visit the websites and call for a consultation. Then you can relax, knowing you are in good hands.

SCOTT CHARMOY

Charmoy & Charmoy 1465 Post Rd E, Westport 203-255-8100 charmoy.com

IRVE J. GOLDMAN

Pullman & Comley LLC 850 Main St, Bridgeport 203-330-2213 pullcom.com

JESSICA GROSSARTH

KENNEDY Pullman & Comley LLC 850 Main St, Bridgeport 203-330-2215 pullcom.com

KRISTIN B. MAYHEW

Pullman & Comley LLC 850 Main St, Bridgeport 203-330-2198 pullcom.com

JAMES G. VERRILLO

Zeldes Needle & Cooper PC 1000 Lafayette Blvd, Bridgeport 203-333-9441 znclaw.com

RICHARD D. ZEISLER

Zeldes Needle & Cooper PC 1000 Lafayette Blvd, Bridgeport 203-332-5755 znclaw.com

BUSINESS LAW

DAVID I. ALBIN Finn Dixon & Herling LLP 6 Landmark Sq, Stamford 203-325-5031 fdh.com

R. SCOTT BEACH Day Pitney LLP 24 Field Point Rd, Greenwich 203-862-7824 daypitney.com

GAIL BERRITT Law Office Of Gail Berritt LLC 9 Berndale Dr, Westport 203-222-7449 berrittlaw.com

STEVEN A. CERTILMAN

Steven A Certilman PC 350 Bedford St, Stamford 203-977-7800 certilman.com

ROBERT S. COOPER

Zeldes Needle & Cooper PC 1000 Lafayette Blvd, Bridgeport 203-332-5723 znclaw.com

THOMAS D. GOLDBERG Day Pitney LLP 263 Tresser Blvd, Stamford 203-977-7383 daypitney.com

MICHAEL J. HERLING Finn Dixon & Herling LLP 6 Landmark Sq, Stamford 203-325-5015 fdh.com

CHERYL L. JOHNSON Verrill Dana LLP 355 Riverside Ave, Westport 203-222-3126 verrill-law.com

DAVID M. LEVINE

Cohen and Wolf PC 1115 Broad St, Bridgeport 203-337-4137 cohenandwolf.com

JOSEPH W. MARTINI

Spears Manning & Martini LLC 2425 Post Rd, Southport 203-292-9766 spearsmanning.com

DAVID M. MOROSAN

Cohen and Wolf PC 1115 Broad St, Bridgeport 203-337-4162 cohenandwolf.com

KEVIN G. PALUMBERI

Carmody Torrance Sandak & Hennessey LLP 1055 Washington Blvd, Stamford 203-252-2692 carmodylaw.com

THOMAS J. WALSH JR. Brody Wilkinson PC 2507 Post Rd, Southport 203-319-7145 brodywilk.com

ALLEN L. WEINGARTEN

Stone Key Group LLC 411 W Putnam Ave, Greenwich 203-930-3700 stonekey.com

BARBARA A. YOUNG Verrill Dana LLP 355 Riverside Ave, Westport 203-222-3123 verrill-law.com CIVIL

COLIN B. CONNOR Russo & Rizio LLC 10 Sasco Hill Rd, Fairfield 203-254-7579 russorizio.com

MONTE E. FRANK Pullman & Comley LLC 850 Main St, Bridgeport 203-330-2262 pullcom.com

AMANDA HEFFERNAN Ryan Ryan Deluca LLP 10 Sasco Hill Rd, Fairfield 203-255-9928 russorizio.com

ROBERT O. HICKEY Ryan Ryan Deluca LLP 1000 Lafayette Blvd, Bridgeport 203-541-5005 ryandelucalaw.com

MICHAEL J. JONES Ivey Barnum & O'Mara LLC 170 Mason St, Greenwich 203-661-6000 ibolaw.com

MICHAEL P. KAELIN Cummings & Lockwood LLC 6 Landmark Sq, Stamford 203-351-4106 cl-law.com

JONATHAN M. LEVINE Silver Golub & Teitell LLP 1 Landmark Sq, Stamford 203-325-4491 sgtlaw.com

BIANCA LOGIURATO Pullman & Comley LLC 850 Main St, Bridgeport 203-330-2237 pullcom.com

KAELYN M. MOSTAFA Cohen and Wolf PC 1115 Broad St, Bridgeport 203-337-4147 cohenandwolf.com

FRANK W. MURPHY

Tierney Zullo Flaherty & Murphy PC

134 East Avenue, Norwalk 203-853-7000 tierneyzullomurphy.com

PETER M. NOLIN

Carmody Torrance Sandak & Hennessey LLP 1055 Washington Blvd, Stamford 203-252-2688 carmodylaw.com

JAMES J. NOONAN

Ryan Ryan Deluca LLP 1000 Lafayette Blvd, Bridgeport 203-541-5045 ryandelucalaw.com

FREDERIC S. URY

Pullman & Comley LLC

253 Post Rd W, Westport 203-254-5000 pullcom.com

SCOTT M. HARRINGTON

Diserio Martin O'Connor & Castiglioni LLP 1010 Washington Blvd, Stamford 203-569-1107 diseriomartin.com

ARI J. HOFFMAN

Cohen and Wolf PC 1115 Broad St, Bridgeport 203-337-4194 cohenandwolf.com

GARY S. KLEIN

Carmody Torrance Sandak & Hennessey LLP 1055 Washington Blvd, Stamford 203-252-2696 carmodylaw.com

MARC J. KURZMAN

Carmody Torrance Sandak & Hennessey LLP 1055 Washington Blvd, Stamford 203-252-2680 carmodylaw.com

THOMAS S. LAMBERT

DAVID A. BALL

Cohen and Wolf PC

1115 Broad St, Bridgeport 203-337-4134 cohenandwolf.com

BENJAMIN D. BIANCO

Meister Seelig & Fein 383 Main Ave, Norwalk 646-539-3791 meisterseelig.com

JAMES H. BICKS

Wiggin and Dana LLP 281 Tresser Blvd, Stamford 203-363-7622 wiggin.com

JOHN W. CANNAVINO

Cummings & Lockwood LLC 6 Landmark Sq, Stamford 203-351-4447 cl-law.com

JOHN F. CARBERRY

Cummings & Lockwood LLC 6 Landmark Sq, Stamford 203-351-4280 cl-law.com

JONATHAN W. FAZZINO

Cohen and Wolf PC 1115 Broad St, Bridgeport 203-368-0211 cohenandwolf.com

DAVID P. FRIEDMAN

Murtha Cullina 107 Elm St, Stamford 203-653-5438 murthalaw.com

MARSHALL GOLDBERG

Wofsey Rosen Kweskin & Kuriansky LLP 600 Summer St, Stamford 203-327-2300 wrkk.com

FRANK J. SILVESTRI JR.

Verrill Dana LLP

355 Riverside Ave, Westport 203-222-3108 verrill-law.com

THOMAS L. TISDALE

Tisdale & Nast Law Offices LLC 10 Spruce St, Southport 203-254-8474 tisdale-law.com

ANDREW M. ZEITLIN

Shipman & Goodwin LLP

300 Atlantic St, Stamford 203-324-8111 shipmangoodwin.com

CONSTRUCTION

THOMAS CASSONE

Meister Seelig & Fein 383 Main Ave, Norwalk 203-348-4245 meisterseelig.com

Pullman & Comley LLC 850 Main St, Bridgeport 203-330-2147 pullcom.com

TIMOTHY J. NAST

Tisdale & Nast Law Offices LLC 10 Spruce St, Southport 203-254-8474 tisdale-law.com

ANDREW B. NEVAS

Verrill Dana LLP 355 Riverside Ave, Westport 203-222-3103 verrill-law.com

PHILIP C. PIRES

Cohen and Wolf PC 1115 Broad St, Bridgeport 203-337-4122 cohenandwolf.com

LINDSAY T. REED

Carmody Torrance Sandak & Hennessey LLP 1055 Washington Blvd, Stamford 203-252-2657 carmodylaw.com

JAMES C. RILEY

Whitman Breed Abbott & Morgan LLC 500 W Putnam Ave, Greenwich 203-862-2342 whitmanbreed.com

TIMOTHY G. RONAN

Pullman & Comley LLC 850 Main St, Bridgeport 203-674-7933 pullcom.com

JAMES T. SHEARIN

Pullman & Comley LLC 850 Main St, Bridgeport 203-330-2240 pullcom.com

THOMAS J. FREED

Holland & Knight LLP 263 Tresser Blvd, Stamford 203-905-4529 hklaw.com

MATTHEW D. GLENNON

Pullman & Comley LLC 850 Main St, Bridgeport 203-330-2231 pullcom.com

NANCY A. D. HANCOCK Pullman & Comley LLC 850 Main St, Bridgeport 203-330-2118 pullcom.com

EDMUND M. REMONDINO Wofsey Rosen Kweskin & Kuriansky LLP 600 Summer St, Stamford 203-327-2300 wrkk.com

JOSHUA S. SMITH

Pullman & Comley LLC 850 Main St, Bridgeport 203-330-2083 pullcom.com

CORPORATE COUNSEL

HAROLD B. FINN III

Finn Dixon & Herling LLP 6 Landmark Sq, Stamford 203-325-5029 fdh.com

J. VANCE HANCOCK Gregory and Adams PC 190 Old Ridgefield Rd, Wilton 203-571-6306 gregoryandadams.com

RANDALL C. MATHIESON Pullman & Comley LLC 850 Main St, Bridgeport 203-330-2037 pullcom.com

WILLIAM A. PERRONE Wiggin and Dana LLP 281 Tresser Blvd, Stamford 203-363-7604 wiggin.com

CORPORATE FINANCE MERGERS AND ACQUISITIONS

WILLIAM M. CARELLO

Wofsey Rosen Kweskin & Kuriansky LLP 600 Summer St, Stamford 203-364-2407 wrkk.com

MARTIN A. CLARKE

Holland & Knight LLP 263 Tresser Blvd, Stamford 203-905-4541 hklaw.com

MARK SHERMAN

The Law Offices of Mark Sherman LLC 29 5th St, Stamford 203-769-9701 markshermanlaw.com

BRIAN E. SPEARS

Spears Manning & Martini LLC 2425 Post Rd, Southport 203-292-9766 spearsmanning.com

ROBERT J. SULLIVAN JR. The Law Offices of Robert Sullivan 2220 Park Ave, Bridgeport 230-227-1404 sullivanfirm.net

LINDY R. URSO

Lindy R. Urso Attorney At Law 810 Bedford St, Stamford 203-325-4487 lindyursolaw.com

BRENDAN P. SNOWDEN

Cummings & Lockwood LLC 6 Landmark Sq, Stamford 203-351-4209 cl-law.com

KAREN P. WACKERMAN

Pullman & Comley LLC 850 Main St, Bridgeport 203-330-2278 pullcom.com

CRIMINAL DEFENSE

AUDREY A. FELSEN

Koffsky & Felsen LLC 1150 Bedford St, Stamford 203-327-1500 koffskyfelsen.com

ANDREW GOULD

Law Offices Of Philip Russell LLC 1 River Rd, Cos Cob 203-661-4200 greenwichlegal.com

CHRISTINE L. LANDIS

Law Offices of Mark Sherman LLC 29 5th St, Stamford 203-340-0583 markshermanlaw.com

EUGENE J. RICCIO

Law Offices of Eugene J. Riccio 2000 Post Rd, Fairfield 203-625-8180 eugenericciolaw.com

PHILIP RUSSELL

Law Offices of Philip Russell LLC 1 River Rd, Cos Cob 203-661-4200 greenwichlegal.com

JOEL D. MUHLBAUM Law Offices of Joel D. Muhlbaum LLC 1100 Summer St, Stamford 203-323-1818 ctnyelderlaw.com

JAMES M. RUBINO Law Offices of James M. Rubino 1100 Summer St, Stamford 203-327-4212 attorneyrubino.com

ELLEN R. SUTLIFFE HAIN Cohen and Wolf PC 1115 Broad St, Bridgeport 203-337-4101 cohenandwolf.com

EMINENT DOMAIN

C. CHRISTIAN YOUNG Cohen and Wolf PC 1115 Broad St, Bridgeport 203-368-0211Cohen cohenandwolf.com

EDUCATION

NORA A. BELANGER

Law Office of Nora A. Belanger LLC 161 East Ave, Norwalk 203-722-0319 norabelangerlaw.com

SARAH E. GLEASON

Shipman & Goodwin LLP 300 Atlantic St, Stamford 203-324-8132 shipmangoodwin.com

KAREN A. JEFFERS Pullman & Comley LLC 850 Main St, Bridgeport 203-330-2284 pullcom.com

PIPER PAUL

Piper Paul Law LLC 500 Post Rd East, Westport 203-280-1885 piperpaullaw.com

STEPHEN M. SEDOR Pullman & Comley LLC 850 Main St, Bridgeport 203-330-2137 pullcom.com

ELDER LAW

ANN FOWLER-CRUZ Cohen and Wolf PC 158 Deer Hill Ave, Danbury 203-749-5570 cohenandwolf.com

JASON A. BUCHSBAUM Cohen and Wolf PC 158 Deer Hill Ave, Danbury 203-792-2771 cohenandwolf.com

ENERGY OIL AND GAS

JAMES E. RICE Brody Wilkinson PC 2507 Post Rd, Southport 203-319-7112 brodywilk.com

FAMILY LAW

BONNIE AMENDOLA Conlon Amendola PLLC 281 Pequot Ave, Southport 203-803-2943 conlonamendola.com

JACQUELINE F. BARBARA Cohen and Wolf PC 1115 Broad St, Bridgeport 203-368-0211 cohenandwolf.com

LIVIA DEFILIPPIS BARNDOLLAR Pullman & Comley LLC 850 Main St, Bridgeport 203-330-2205 pullcom.com

JANET A. BATTEY Ferro & Battey LLC 320 Post Rd, Darien 203-424-0482 ferrofamilylaw.com

JILL BICKS

Jill Bicks Family Law 500 Post Rd E, Westport 203-997-0251 bickslaw.com

JILL HEITLER BLOMBERG

Schoonmaker George Colin Blomberg Bryniczka & Welsh PC 1700 E Putnam Ave, Old Greenwich 203-862-5000 sgbfamilylaw.com

ANNMARIE P. BRIONES

Cohen and Wolf PC 1115 Broad St, Bridgeport 203-368-0211 cohenandwolf.com

ERIC J. BRODER

Broder Orland Murray & Demattie LLC

55 Greens Farms Rd, Westport 203-222-4949 ctfamilylaw.com

PETER M. BRYNICZKA

Schoonmaker George Colin Blomberg Bryniczka & Welsh PC 1700 E Putnam Ave, Old Greenwich 203-862-5000 sgbfamilylaw.com

ANTHONY L. CENATIEMPO

GraberRoberts LLC 350 Bedford St, Stamford 203-590-1070 graberroberts.com

THOMAS D. COLIN

Siegel Colin & Kaufman PC 1266 E Main St, Stamford 203-326-5145 scklawct.com

JACQUELYN CONLON

Conlon McGlynn & McCann 281 Pequot Ave, Southport 203-803-2943 conlonamendola.com

KEVIN J. DAKEN

Siegel & Kaufman PC 1266 E Main St, Stamford 203-326-5145 scklawct.com

CHRISTOPHER J. DEMATTIE

Broder Orland Murray & Demattie LLC 55 Greens Farms Rd, Westport 203-222-4949 ctfamilylaw.com

NICOLE M. DIGIOSE

Broder Orland Murray & Demattie LLC 55 Greens Farms Rd, Westport 203-222-4949 ctfamilylaw.com

JAIME DURSHT

Siegel Colin & Kaufman PC 1266 E Main St, Stamford 203-326-5145 scklawct.com

WAYNE D. EFFRON

Wayne D. Effron PC

2 Greenwich Office Park, Greenwich 203-622-1160 effronlaw.com

ANDREW M. ELIOT

The Family Law Firm

Healy Eliot + McCann 125 Elm St, New Canaan 203-652-8018 thefamlawfirm.com

SUE GEORGIADES

Broder Orland Murray & Demattie LLC

55 Greens Farms Rd, Westport 203-222-4949 ctfamilylaw.com

HOWARD R. GRABER

GraberRoberts LLC 350 Bedford St, Stamford 203-590-1070 graberroberts.com

DAVID W. GRIFFIN

Rutkin Oldham & Griffin LLC

5 Imperial Ave, Westport 203-428-4476 rutkinoldham.com

LAUREN M. HEALY

The Family Law Firm

Healy Eliot + McCann 125 Elm St, New Canaan 203-652-8018 thefamlawfirm.com

ERIC M. HIGGINS

Wofsey Rosen Kweskin & Kuriansky LLP 600 Summer St, Stamford 203-577-5829 wrkk.com

JOCELYN B. HURWITZ

Cohen and Wolf PC 1115 Broad St, Bridgeport 203-337-4223 cohenandwolf.com

ROSS M. KAUFMAN

Siegel Colin & Kaufman PC 1266 E Main St, Stamford 203-326-5145 scklawct.com

DYAN M. KOZACZKA

Siegel Colin & Kaufman PC 1266 E Main St, Stamford 203-326-5145 scklawct.com

AMY CALVO MCNAMARA

The Law Offices Of Amy Calvo McNamara LLC 3 Greenwich Office Park, Greenwich 203-340-0550 acmfamilylaw.com

DARCY MCALISTER

Carta McAlister & Moore LLC 777 Post Rd, Darien 203-202-3120 cmm-law.com

LAUREN M. MCCANN

The Family Law Firm

Healy Eliot + McCann 125 Elm St, New Canaan 203-652-8018 thefamlawfirm.com

MICHAEL T. MEEHAN

MeehanLaw LLC

76 Lyon Terrace, Bridgeport 203-664-8059 meehanlaw.com

CLIFFORD A. MERIN

Cohen and Wolf PC

1115 Broad St, Bridgeport 203-368-0211 cohenandwolf.com

SARAH E. MURRAY

Broder Orland Murray & Demattie LLC

55 Greens Farms Rd, Westport 203-222-4949 ctfamilylaw.com

SARAH STARK OLDHAM

Rutkin Oldham & Griffin LLC 5 Imperial Ave, Westport 203-428-4476 rutkinoldham.com

CAROLE TOPOL ORLAND

Broder Orland Murray & Demattie LLC 55 Greens Farms Rd, Westport 203-222-4949 ctfamilylaw.com

THOMAS P. PARRINO

Parrino|Shattuck PC 285 Riverside Ave, Westport 475-241-0991 parrinoshattuck.com

RACHEL A. PENCU

Cohen and Wolf PC 1115 Broad St, Bridgeport 203-368-0211 cohenandwolf.com

YAKOV PYETRANKER

Pyetranker PC 1111 Summer St, Stamford 203-989-0031 pyetrankerpc.com

DAVID ROCHE

Papcsy Janosov Roche 53 East Ave, Norwalk 877-835-4983 myinjuryfirm.com

ARNOLD H. RUTKIN

Rutkin Oldham & Griffin LLC 5 Imperial Ave, Westport 203-428-4476 rutkinoldham.com

THOMAS M. SHANLEY

Thomas M. Shanley PC 32 Field Point Rd, Greenwich 203-542-9391 shanleylawfirm.com

MARK R. SOBOSLAI

The Law Offices of Mark R. Soboslai LLC 383 Riverside Ave, Westport 203-226-5759 marksoboslai.com

LOUISE T. TRUAX

Reich And Truax 2507 Post Rd, Southport 203-254-9877 reichandtruax.com

PAUL T. TUSCH

Cacace Tusch & Santagata 1111 Summer St, Stamford 203-327-2000 lawcts.com

VICKI VOLPER

Vicki Volper JD LLM 500 Post Rd East, Westport 203-222-1202 vickivolper.com

AIDAN R. WELSH

Schoonmaker George Colin Blomberg Bryniczka & Welsh PC 1700 E Putnam Ave, Old Greenwich 203-862-5000 sgbfamilylaw.com

MICHELLE M. ZULAWSKI

Reich & Truax 2507 Post Rd, Southport 203-254-9877 reichandtruax.com

GOVERNMENT AND ADMINISTRATIVE

MICHAEL ANDREANA Pullman & Comley LLC 850 Main St, Bridgeport 203-330-2235 pullcom.com

IRA W. BLOOM

Berchem Moses PC 1221 Post Rd E, Westport 203-227-9545 berchemmoses.com

DANIEL E. CASAGRANDE Cramer & Anderson 30 Main St, Danbury 203-744-1234 crameranderson.com

MARIO F. COPPOLA

Berchem Moses PC 1221 Post Rd E, Westport 203-227-9545 berchemmoses.com

JOHN WAYNE FOX

Curtis Brinckerhoff & Barrett PC 666 Summer St, Stamford 203-324-6777 curtisbb.com

westportmag.com

JOHN F. STAFSTROM JR. Pullman & Comley LLC 850 Main St, Bridgeport 203-330-2210 pullcom.com

STEVEN J. STAFSTROM JR. Pullman & Comley LLC 850 Main St, Bridgeport 203-330-2266 pullcom.com

HEALTH CARE LAW

COLLIN P. BARON Pullman & Comley LLC 850 Main St, Bridgeport 203-330-2219 pullcom.com

STEPHEN M. COWHERD Pullman & Comley LLC 850 Main St, Bridgeport 203-330-2280 pullcom.com

PATRICIA D. WEITZMAN

Robinson & Cole LLP 1055 Washington Blvd, Stamford 203-462-7545 rc.com

ANN H. ZUCKER

Carmody Torrance Sandak & Hennessey LLP 1055 Washington Blvd, Stamford 203-252-2652 carmodylaw.com

ALEKSANDR Y. TROYB Benjamin Gold & Troyb PC 350 Bedford St, Stamford 203-425-8500 bgtlawfirm.com

JOHN W. CANNAVINO, JR. Ryan Ryan Deluca LLP 1000 Lafayette Blvd, Bridgeport 203-549-6621 ryandelucalaw.com

JED FERDINAND Ferdinand IP Law Group 1221 Post Rd E, Westport 203-557-4224 ferdinandip.com

PAUL D. GREELEY

Ohlandt Greeley Ruggiero & Perle LLP 1 Landmark Sq, Stamford 203-327-4500 ogpip.com

KATE BEECHER MOORE Meister Seelig & Fein 383 Main Ave, Norwalk 203-327-1402 meisterseelig.com

JESSICA RUTHERFORD Ferdinand IP Law Group 1221 Post Rd E, Westport 203-557-4224 ferdinandip.com

SUSAN M. SCHLESINGER Meister Seelig & Fein 383 Main Ave, Norwalk 646-539-3685 meisterseelig.com

EDWARD R. SCOFIELD Zeldes Needle & Cooper PC 1000 Lafayette Blvd, Bridgeport 203-332-5726 znclaw.com

GEZA C. ZIEGLER JR. Ziegler IP Law Group LLC 3135 Easton Tpke, Fairfield 203-659-0388 gziplaw.com

LABOR AND EMPLOYMENT

ROBERT G. BRODY Brody and Associates LLC 120 Post Rd W, Westport 203-454-0560 brodyandassociates.com

MARK R. CARTA Carta McAlister & Moore LLC 777 Post Rd, Darien 203-202-3131 cmm-law.com

LEWIS H. CHIMES Law Office of Lewis Chimes LLC 45 Franklin St, Stamford 203-324-7744 chimeslaw.com

GREGORY J. BATTERSBY The Battersby Law Group LLC 25 Poplar Plains Rd, Westport 203-454-9646 gbiplaw.com

ROBYN H. DRUCKER Cohen and Wolf PC 1115 Broad St, Bridgeport 203-337-4133 cohenandwolf.com

DAVID M. COHEN Wofsey Rosen Kweskin & Kuriansky LLP 600 Summer St, Stamford 203-433-0519 wrkk.com

KEEGAN A. DRENOSKY Shipman & Goodwin LLP 300 Atlantic St, Stamford 203-324-8139 shipmangoodwin.com

DANIEL B. FITZGERALD

Brody Wilkinson PC

2507 Post Rd, Southport 203-319-7154 brodywilk.com

STEVEN M. FREDERICK

Wofsey Rosen Kweskin & Kuriansky LLP 600 Summer St, Stamford 203-439-6759 wrkk.com

ANDRES JIMENEZ-FRANCK

Ogletree Deakins Nash Smoak & Stewart 281 Tresser Blvd, Stamford 203-969-3119 ogletree.com

GEORGE J. KASPER

Pullman & Comley LLC

850 Main St, Bridgeport 203-330-2119 pullcom.com

STUART M. KATZ

Cohen and Wolf PC 1115 Broad St, Bridgeport 203-337-4205 cohenandwolf.com

TIMOTHY S. KLIMPL

Klimpl Benefits Law 109 Benedict Hill Rd, New Canaan 475-253-2313 klimpllaw.com

SCOTT R. LUCAS

Lucas & Varga LLC 2425 Post Rd, Southport 203-227-8400 lucasvargalaw.com

KUROSH L. MARJANI

Wofsey Rosen Kweskin & Kuriansky LLP 600 Summer St, Stamford 203-327-2300 wrkk.com

JONATHAN B. ORLEANS

Pullman & Comley LLC 850 Main St, Bridgeport 203-330-2129 pullcom.com

DANIEL L. SCHWARTZ

Day Pitney LLP 263 Tresser Blvd, Stamford 203-977-7536 daypitney.com

DOUGLAS J. VARGA

Lucas & Varga LLC 2425 Post Rd, Southport 203-227-8400 lucasvargalaw.com

DANIEL M. YOUNG

Wofsey Rosen Kweskin & Kuriansky LLP 600 Summer St, Stamford 203-327-2300 wrkk.com

ZACHARY T. ZEID

Pullman & Comley LLC 850 Main St, Bridgeport 203-330-2077 pullcom.com

LAND USE ENVIRONMENT

THOMAS W. BEECHER

Collins Hannafin PC 148 Deer Hill Ave, Danbury 203-744-2150 chgjtlaw.com

ADAM J. BLANK

Wofsey Rosen Kweskin & Kuriansky LLP 600 Summer St, Stamford 203-318-6936 wrkk.com

LEONARD M. BRAMAN

Wofsey Rosen Kweskin & Kuriansky LLP 600 Summer St, Stamford 203-354-1282 wrkk.com

WILSON T. CARROLL

Cohen and Wolf PC 1115 Broad St, Bridgeport 203-337-4123 cohenandwolf.com

PAMELA K. ELKOW

Corporate Law Partners 1055 Washington Blvd, Stamford 203-470-3405 corporatelawpartners. com

LISA L. FEINBERG

Carmody Torrance Sandak & Hennessey LLP 1055 Washington Blvd, Stamford 203-252-2677 carmodylaw.com

STEPHEN A. FINN

Wofsey Rosen Kweskin & Kuriansky LLP 600 Summer St, Stamford 203-439-6670 wrkk.com

WILLIAM J. FITZPATRICK III

Russo & Rizio LLC 10 Sasco Hill Rd, Fairfield 203-255-9928 russorizio.com

PETER V. GELDERMAN

Berchem Moses PC 1221 Post Rd E, Westport 203-227-9545 berchemmoses.com

JOHN HEAGNEY

Heagney Lennon & Slane LLP 31 East Elm St, Greenwich 203-661-8400 hls248.com

THOMAS J. HEAGNEY

Heagney Lennon & Slane LLP 31 East Elm St, Greenwich 203-661-8400 hls248.com

WILLIAM J. HENNESSEY JR.

Carmody Torrance Sandak & Hennessey LLP 1055 Washington Blvd, Stamford 203-425-4200 carmodylaw.com

JACQUELINE O. KAUFMAN

Carmody Torrance Sandak & Hennessey LLP 1055 Washington Blvd, Stamford 203-252-2665 carmodylaw.com

JASON A. KLEIN

Carmody Torrance Sandak & Hennessey LLP 1055 Washington Blvd, Stamford 203-252-2669 carmodylaw.com

BRIAN L. MCCANN

Pullman & Comley LLC 850 Main St, Bridgeport 203-330-2127 pullcom.com

BARBARA S. MILLER

Brody Wilkinson PC 2507 Post Rd, Southport 203-319-7100 brodywilk.com

RAYMOND RIZIO

Russo & Rizio LLC 10 Sasco Hill Rd, Fairfield 203-255-9928 russorizio.com

CHRISTOPHER RUSSO

Russo & Rizio LLC 10 Sasco Hill Rd, Fairfield 203-255-9928 russorizio.com

PATRICIA C. SULLIVAN

Cohen and Wolf PC 1115 Broad St, Bridgeport 203-337-4124 cohenandwolf.com

AUSTIN K. WOLF

Cohen and Wolf PC 1115 Broad St, Bridgeport 203-368-0211 cohenandwolf.com

MEDICAL MALPRACTICE DEFENSE

REBECCA N. BRINDLEY

Stockman O’Connor Connors PLLC 10 Middle St, Bridgeport 203-220-6590 stockmanoconnor.com

JOHN F. COSTA

Ryan Ryan Deluca LLP 1000 Lafayette Blvd, Bridgeport 203-541-5044 ryandelucalaw.com

DANIEL E. RYAN III

Ryan Ryan Deluca LLP 1000 Lafayette Blvd, Bridgeport 203-541-5030 ryandelucalaw.com MEDICAL MALPRACTICE PLAINTIFF

MARCO A. ALLOCCA

Silver Golub & Teitell LLP 1 Landmark Sq, Stamford 203-325-4491 sgtlaw.com

NICOLE B. COATES

Silver Golub & Teitell LLP 1 Landmark Sq, Stamford 203-325-4491 sgtlaw.com

PETER M. DREYER

Silver Golub & Teitell LLP 1 Landmark Sq, Stamford 203-325-4491 sgtlaw.com

JIM HORWITZ

Koskoff Koskoff & Bieder PC 350 Fairfield Ave, Bridgeport 203-583-8634 koskoff.com

JOAQUIN L. MADRY

Silver Golub & Teitell LLP 1 Landmark Sq, Stamford 203-325-4491 sgtlaw.com

SARAH A. RICCIARDI

Silver Golub & Teitell LLP 1 Landmark Sq, Stamford 203-325-4491 sgtlaw.com

RICHARD A. SILVER

Silver Golub & Teitell LLP

1 Landmark Sq, Stamford 203-325-4491 sgtlaw.com

ANGELO A. ZIOTAS

Silver Golub & Teitell LLP 1 Landmark Sq, Stamford 203-325-4491 sgtlaw.com

PERSONAL INJURY

BILL BLOSS

Koskoff Koskoff & Bieder PC 350 Fairfield Ave, Bridgeport 475-766-5116 koskoff.com

STEWART M. CASPER

Casper & de Toledo LLC 1458 Bedford St, Stamford 203-325-8600 casperdetoledo.com

WILLIAM M. DAVOREN

Wofsey Rosen Kweskin & Kuriansky LLP 600 Summer St, Stamford 203-437-4968 wrkk.com

KEVIN M. GRECO

Carmody Torrance Sandak & Hennessey LLP 1055 Washington Blvd, Stamford 203-252-2666 carmodylaw.com

BRIAN KLUBERDANZ

Wofsey Rosen Kweskin & Kuriansky LLP 600 Summer St, Stamford 203-693-1154 wrkk.com

DOUG MAHONEY

Robinson Mahoney PLLC 1210 Post Rd, Fairfield 203-692-2186 robinsonmahoney.com

TOP LAWYERS IN FAIRFIELD COUNTY

NEAL L. MOSKOW

Moskow Law Group LLC 425 Kings Highway E, Fairfield 475-304-7085 moskowlaw.com

ALAN SCOTT PICKEL

The Pickel Law Firm LLC 1700 Bedford St, Stamford 203-348-4100 pickellaw.com

CINDY ROBINSON

Robinson Mahoney PLLC 1210 Post Rd, Fairfield 203-692-2186 robinsonmahoney.com

PAUL A. SLAGER

Silver Golub & Teitell LLP 1 Landmark Sq, Stamford 203-325-4491 sgtlaw.com

ERNEST TEITELL

Silver Golub & Teitell LLP 1 Landmark Sq, Stamford 203-325-4491 sgtlaw.com

JEREMY VISHNO

Vishno Law Firm 183 Sherman St, Fairfield 203-256-2373 vishnolawfirm.com

JOSEPH G. WALSH Cohen and Wolf PC 158 Deer Hill Ave, Danbury 203-792-2771 cohenandwolf.com

VANESSA R. WAMBOLT Russo & Rizio LLC 10 Sasco Hill Rd, Fairfield 203-254-7579 russorizio.com

NICHOLAS E. WOCL Wocl Leydon LLC 80 4th St, Stamford 203-884-0222 woclleydon.com

PRODUCT LIABILITY

JORAM HIRSCH

Hirsch Andrade LLP 1000 Lafayette Blvd, Bridgeport 203-331-8888 hirsch-andradelaw.com

BRENDEN P. LEYDON

Wocl Leydon LLC 80 4th St, Stamford 203-884-0222 woclleydon.com

PROFESSIONAL

MALPRACTICE NON-MEDICAL DEFENSE

DAVID P. ATKINS

Pullman & Comley LLC

850 Main St, Bridgeport 203-330-2103 pullcom.com

STEPHEN J. CONOVER

Carmody Torrance Sandak & Hennessey LLP 1055 Washington Blvd, Stamford 203-252-2668 carmodylaw.com

CHARLES A. DELUCA

Ryan Ryan Deluca LLP 1000 Lafayette Blvd, Bridgeport 203-541-5000 ryandelucalaw.com

ROBERT C. E. LANEY

Ryan Ryan Deluca LLP 1000 Lafayette Blvd, Bridgeport 203-541-5010 ryandelucalaw.com

MICHAEL T. RYAN

Ryan Ryan Deluca LLP 1000 Lafayette Blvd, Bridgeport 203-541-5050 ryandelucalaw.com

MARCY TENCH STOVALL

Pullman & Comley LLC 850 Main St, Bridgeport 203-330-2104 pullcom.com

SUZANNE B. SUTTON

Cohen and Wolf PC 1115 Broad St, Bridgeport 203-368-0211 cohenandwolf.com

REAL ESTATE

SETH J. ARNOWITZ

Seth J. Arnowitz LLC 1111 Summer St, Stamford 203-348-7722 ctattorney.com

ERIC D. BERNHEIM FLB Law PLLC

315 Post Rd W, Westport 475-236-5203 flb.law

MICHAEL P. BYRNE Day Pitney LLP 263 Tresser Blvd, Stamford 203-977-7349 daypitney.com

MICHAEL J. CACACE

Cacace Tusch & Santagata 1111 Summer St, Stamford 203-327-2000 lawcts.com

MICHAEL A. CECCORULLI

Pullman & Comley LLC 850 Main St, Bridgeport 860-424-4394 pullcom.com

JOSEPH CESSARIO

Cummings & Lockwood LLC 6 Landmark Sq, Stamford 203-351-4259 cl-law.com

ADAM J. COHEN

Pullman & Comley LLC 850 Main St, Bridgeport 203-330-2230 pullcom.com

BRUCE F. COHEN

Fogarty Cohen Russo & Nemiroff LLC 1700 E Putnam Ave, Old Greenwich 203-661-1000 fcsn.com

JOSHUA S. COLE

Pullman & Comley LLC 850 Main St, Bridgeport 203-330-2217 pullcom.com

SETH L. COOPER

Brody Wilkinson PC 2507 Post Rd, Southport 203-319-7123 brodywilk.com

STEVEN L. ELBAUM

Robinson and Cole 1055 Washington Blvd, Stamford 203-462-7526 rc.com

REGINA M. FLAHERTY

Verrill Dana LLP 355 Riverside Ave, Westport 203-222-3109 verrill-law.com

JUSTIN L. GALLETTI

Brody Wilkinson PC 2507 Post Rd, Southport 203-319-7135 brodywilk.com

SUSAN L. GOLDMAN

Gregory and Adams PC 190 Old Ridgefield Rd, Wilton 203-571-6303 gregoryandadams.com

STEVEN D. GRUSHKIN

Wofsey Rosen Kweskin & Kuriansky LLP 600 Summer St, Stamford 203-327-2300 wrkk.com

DONALD R. GUSTAFSON

Shipman & Goodwin LLP 300 Atlantic St, Stamford 203-324-8103 shipmangoodwin.com

PATRICK J. HANNA

Carmody Torrance Sandak & Hennessey LLP 1055 Washington Blvd, Stamford 203-252-2667 carmodylaw.com

ABRAHAM M. HOFFMANN

Abraham M. Hoffmann

Attorney At Law 4154 Madison Ave, Trumbull 203-373-1350 abrahamhoffmannlaw.com

JEFFREY R. HOULE

Carmody Torrance Sandak & Hennessey LLP 1055 Washington Blvd, Stamford 203-252-2646 carmodylaw.com

JEREMY E. KAYE

Kaye & Associates LLC 71 Lewis St, Greenwich 203-625-5300 kayelawct.com

JOEL M. KAYE

Law Office Of Joel M. Kaye 165 W Putnam Ave, Greenwich 203-622-4500 joelkaye.com

MARK A. KIRSCH

Cohen and Wolf PC 1115 Broad St, Bridgeport 203-337-4254 cohenandwolf.com

HOWARD D. KOMISAR

Berkowitz Trager And Trager LLC 8 Wright St, Westport 203-291-8203 btt-law.com

STANTON H. LESSER

Russo & Rizio LLC 10 Sasco Hill Rd, Fairfield 203-254-7579 russorizio.com

KRISTEN A. MAZUR

Mark Sank & Associates LLC 666 Glenbrook Rd, Stamford 800-785-9702 marksank.com

VICTORIA L. MILLER

Russo & Rizio LLC 10 Sasco Hill Rd, Fairfield 203-254-7579 russorizio.com

JONATHAN B. MILLS

Cummings & Lockwood LLC 2 Greenwich Plz, Greenwich 203-351-4100 cl-law.com

GLEN J. MOORE

Carta McAlister & Moore LLC 777 Post Rd, Darien 203-202-3110 cmm-law.com

KENT S. NEVINS

Shipman & Goodwin LLP 300 Atlantic St, Stamford 203-324-8163 shipmangoodwin.com

ROBERT A. PACELLI JR.

Zeldes Needle & Cooper PC 1000 Lafayette Blvd, Bridgeport 203-332-5735 znclaw.com

LEAH M. PARISI

Russo & Rizio LLC 10 Sasco Hill Rd, Fairfield 203-254-7579 russorizio.com

JOSHUA PEDREIRA

Cohen and Wolf PC 1115 Broad St, Bridgeport 203-368-0211 cohenandwolf.com

MARY BETH K. RAPICE Pullman & Comley LLC 850 Main St, Bridgeport 203-330-2133 pullcom.com

MICHAEL S. ROSTEN

Cohen and Wolf PC 320 Post Rd W, Westport 203-341-5330 cohenandwolf.com

STEVEN M. SIEGELAUB Berkowitz Trager and Trager LLC 8 Wright St, Westport 203-291-8223 btt-law.com

MICHAEL P. SWEENEY Carmody Torrance Sandak & Hennessey LLP 1055 Washington Blvd, Stamford 203-252-2690 carmodylaw.com

LAUREN WALTERS

Cohen and Wolf PC 1115 Broad St, Bridgeport 203-341-5320 cohenandwolf.com

TOM S. WARD JR. Ivey Barnum & O’Mara LLC 170 Mason St, Greenwich 203-661-6000 ibolaw.com

SCOTT T. WITTHUHN

Cummings & Lockwood LLC 6 Landmark Sq, Stamford 203-351-4276 cl-law.com

SECURITIES LAW

PETER J. BILFIELD

Day Pitney LLP 1 Stamford Plz, Stamford 203-977-7569 daypitney.com

MARK W. KLEIN

Brody Wilkinson PC 2507 Post Rd, Southport 203-319-7118 brodywilk.com

RICHARD SLAVIN

Cohen and Wolf PC 320 Post Rd W, Westport 203-341-5310 cohenandwolf.com

TAX LAW

RICHARD J. DIMARCO

Cohen and Wolf PC 320 Post Rd W, Westport 203-341-5301 cohenandwolf.com

BRETT W. DIXON

Finn Dixon & Herling LLP 6 Landmark Sq, Stamford 203-325-5016 fdh.com

LESLIE E. GRODD

FLB Law PLLC 315 Post Rd W, Westport 475-236-5212 flb.law

WILLIAM J. KAMBAS Withersworldwide 1700 E Putnam Ave, Greenwich 203-974-0313 withersworldwide.com

DAVID M. LEHN Withersworldwide 1700 E Putnam Ave, Greenwich 203-302-4077 withersworldwide.com

D. ROBERT MORRIS Pullman & Comley LLC 850 Main St, Bridgeport 203-330-2109 pullcom.com

ERIN NORTON

Whitman Breed Abbott & Morgan LLC 500 W Putnam Ave, Greenwich 203-862-2319 whitmanbreed.com

STUART B. RATNER

Stuart B. Ratner PC 1111 Summer St, Stamford 203-323-4900 ratnerlawfirm.com

KIMBERLY T. SMITH

Brody Wilkinson PC 2507 Post Rd, Southport 203-319-7148 brodywilk.com

RACHAEL E. SPINA

Cohen and Wolf PC 1115 Broad St, Bridgeport 203-341-5308 cohenandwolf.com

LUKE T. TASHJIAN Cohen and Wolf PC 1115 Broad St, Bridgeport 203-341-5304 cohenandwolf.com

ROBERT L. TEICHER

Brody Wilkinson PC 2507 Post Rd, Southport 203-319-7129 brodywilk.com

RUSSELL F. ANDERSON Pullman & Comley LLC 850 Main St, Bridgeport 203-330-2271 pullcom.com

DAVID E. DOBIN Cohen and Wolf PC 1115 Broad St, Bridgeport 203-337-4120 cohenandwolf.com

WILLS

JENNIFER A. BASCIANO Brody Wilkinson PC 2507 Post Rd, Southport 203-319-7113 brodywilk.com

DOUGLAS R. BROWN Brody Wilkinson PC 2507 Post Rd, Southport 203-319-7119 brodywilk.com

BETH ANN BRUNALLI Davidson Dawson & Clark LLP 18 Locust Ave, New Canaan 203-972-3031 davidsondawson.com

ROB ROY BUCKINGHAM JR. Blair & Potts 281 Tresser Blvd, Stamford 203-327-2333 blairandpotts.com

DAVID B. BUSSOLOTTA Pullman & Comley LLC 850 Main St, Bridgeport 203-330-2223 pullcom.com

MICHAEL T. CLEAR Wiggin and Dana LLP 30 Milbank Ave, Greenwich 203-363-7675 wiggin.com

TATIANA F. DASILVA

Cohen and Wolf PC

1115 Broad St, Bridgeport 203-368-0211 cohenandwolf.com

LAUREN C. DAVIES

Pullman & Comley LLC 850 Main St, Bridgeport 203-330-2076 pullcom.com

B. CORT DELANY

Cummings & Lockwood LLC 2 Greenwich Plz, Greenwich 203-863-6554 cl-law.com

MARGARET A. DELUCA

Cummings & Lockwood LLC

6 Landmark Sq, Stamford 203-351-4298 cl-law.com

ROBERT A. DEVELLIS

Blair & Potts

281 Tresser Blvd, Stamford 203-327-2333 blairandpotts.com

RICHARD J. DIVINEY

Sherwood & Garlick PC 65 Jesup Rd, Westport 203-227-9585 sherwoodgarlick.com

ELIZABETH A. FALKOFF

Cummings & Lockwood LLC 6 Landmark Sq, Stamford 203-351-4198 cl-law.com

DANIEL P. FITZGERALD

Cummings & Lockwood LLC 2 Greenwich Plz, Greenwich 203-863-6511 cl-law.com

JAMES D. FUNNELL JR.

Brody Wilkinson PC 2507 Post Rd, Southport 203-319-7106 brodywilk.com

KATHERINE COTTER GENT

Cummings & Lockwood LLC 2 Greenwich Plz, Greenwich 203-863-6577 cl-law.com

JESSIE A. GILBERT

Cummings & Lockwood LLC 2 Greenwich Plz, Greenwich 203-863-6503 cl-law.com

GREGORY A. HAYES

Day Pitney LLP 263 Tresser Blvd, Stamford 203-977-7365 daypitney.com

HELEN C. HEINTZ

Wiggin and Dana LLP 281 Tresser Blvd, Stamford 203-363-7607 wiggin.com

JEVERA KAYE HENNESSEY

Whitman Breed Abbott & Morgan LLC

500 W Putnam Ave, Greenwich 203-862-2327 whitmanbreed.com

DAVID R. HERMENZE

Brody Wilkinson PC

2507 Post Rd, Southport 203-319-7105 brodywilk.com

DANIEL G. JOHNSON

Cummings & Lockwood 6 Landmark Sq, Stamford 203-351-4317 cl-law.com

EVA V. KLIEGMAN

Whitman Breed Abbott & Morgan LLC

500 W Putnam Ave, Greenwich 203-862-2309 whitmanbreed.com

LEONARD LEADER

Wiggin and Dana LLP 60 Church Lane, Westport 203-363-7602 wiggin.com

EDWARD MARCANTONIO

Brody Wilkinson PC 2507 Post Rd, Southport 203-319-7107 brodywilk.com

ALESSANDRA MESSINEO

LONG

The Law Offices of Alessandra Messineo Long 117 E Putnam Ave, Riverside 203-249-3601 amlonglaw.com

PETER T. MOTT

Brody Wilkinson PC 2507 Post Rd, Southport 203-319-7136 brodywilk.com

JOHN R. MUSICARO JR.

Cummings & Lockwood LLC 6 Landmark Sq, Stamford 203-351-4343 cl-law.com

DOUGLAS H. OLIN

Cummings & Lockwood LLC 2 Greenwich Plz, Greenwich 203-863-6504 cl-law.com

JOSEPH M. PANKOWSKI JR. Wofsey Rosen Kweskin & Kuriansky LLP 600 Summer St, Stamford 203-327-2300 wrkk.com

PATRICK L. POESCHL

Nemchek & Poeschl LLC

60 Long Ridge Rd, Stamford 203-316-8277 x 304 n-plaw.com

EDWARD F. RODENBACH

Cummings & Lockwood LLC 2 Greenwich Plz, Greenwich 203-863-6551 cl-law.com

RICHARD A. SARNER

Richard A. Sarner Of Zeldes Needle & Cooper PC 201 Broad St, Stamford 203-332-5761 sarnerlaw.com

SHARON M. SCHWEITZER

Verrill Dana LLP 355 Riverside Ave, Westport 203-222-3118 verrill-law.com

JENNA A. SHANKMAN

Cohen and Wolf PC 1115 Broad St, Bridgeport 203-337-4171 cohenandwolf.com

JANE FORD SHAW

Russo & Rizio LLC 10 Sasco Hill Rd, Fairfield 203-254-7579 russorizio.com

RACHEL B. G. SHERMAN

Cummings & Lockwood LLC 6 Landmark Sq, Stamford 203-351-4656 cl-law.com

ALYSSA V. SHERRIFF

Brody Wilkinson PC 2507 Post Rd, Southport 203-319-7157 brodywilk.com

GEORGE L. SMITH

Whitman Breed Abbott & Morgan LLC 500 W Putnam Ave, Greenwich 203-862-2352 whitmanbreed.com

GRETA E. SOLOMON

Cohen and Wolf PC 1115 Broad St, Bridgeport 203-337-4114 cohenandwolf.com

JAMES B. STEWART Pullman & Comley LLC 850 Main St, Bridgeport 203-254-5008 pullcom.com

AMY E. TODISCO

Braunstein and Todisco PC 1 Eliot Pl, Fairfield 203-254-1118 btlawfirm.com

HOWARD S. TUTHILL III

Cummings & Lockwood LLC 6 Landmark Sq, Stamford 203-351-4308 cl-law.com

DARREN M. WALLACE Day Pitney LLP 263 Tresser Blvd, Stamford 203-862-7874 daypitney.com

LAURA WEINTRAUB BECK

Cummings & Lockwood LLC 2 Greenwich Plz, Greenwich 203-863-6590 cl-law.com

AMY K. WILFERT

Day Pitney LLP 24 Field Point Rd, Greenwich 203-862-7811 daypitney.com

WORKERS COMPENSATION

JOHNPATRICK O'BRIEN

Law Offices of Johnpatrick O’Brien PLLC 239 Golden Hill St, Bridgeport 203-793-4743 lawofficesofjohnpatrick obrien.com

TOP LAWYERS IN FAIRFIELD COUNTY

BENJAMIN H. POMERANTZ

Carmody Torrance Sandak & Hennessey LLP 1055 Washington Blvd, Stamford 203-252-2645 carmodylaw.com

JEREMY C. VIRGIL Zeldes Needle & Cooper PC 1000 Lafayette Blvd, Bridgeport 203-332-5775 znclaw.com

METHODOLOGY: To create the list, the magazine contracted DataJoe Research to facilitate an online peer-voting process and Internet research 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. To create the list, DataJoe Research facilitated an online peer-voting process. We paired this with an Internet research process to identify success characteristics. 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 lawyer’s current, active registration with the state regulatory board, that lawyer was excluded from the list. In addition, we checked available public sources to identify lawyers disciplined for an infraction by the state regulatory board. These entities were excluded from the list. Finally, DataJoe presented the tallied result to the magazine for its final review and adjustments.

FINAL NOTE: We recognize that there are many good lawyers 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 lawyers in the region. We take time and energy to ensure fair voting, although we understand that the results of this survey nomination and Internet research campaign are not an objective metric. We certainly do not discount the fact that many, many good and effective lawyers may not appear on the list.

DISCLAIMER

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.

Questions? For research/methodology questions, contact the research team at surveys@datajoe.com.

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PROFILES 2024 LAWYER Legal Professionals

You’ll find some of the best legal minds in Fairfield County. Discover more about local practices and what makes these attorneys stand out in their field.

PULLMAN & COMLEY

CORPORATE

Relationships matter. At Pullman & Comley, we work closely with our clients to solve their most complex legal challenges, with a focus on exceptional service, value and results. We serve individuals and their families, entrepreneurs, emerging growth businesses, and public and private companies of all sizes. With oﬃces in Fairﬁeld County and throughout the region, we have close ties to the communities where we live and work.

Our clients have access to the resources,

depth, and breadth of a full-service law firm, while receiving personal attention from our attorneys and staff. Our practice areas include business and finance, environmental, health care, labor and employment, litigation, real estate and land use, as well as family law, trusts and estates and tax law. We also provide a range of legal services tailored to individuals, families and closelyheld businesses, with attorneys who are recognized for their accomplishments in the areas of family law, tax, and trusts and estates.

Alessandra is currently the Principal of the Law Offices of Alessandra M. Messineo Long, LLC. Specializing in Wills, Estate Planning, Trust and Estates Administration, Business Law, and Non-Profit Organizations. She represents Families, Individuals, Corporations, Non-Profit Organizations, small businesses, entrepreneurs, and consultants. Licensed to practice law in Connecticut, New York, California, and The District of Columbia.

NEEDLE | CUDA DIVORCE

AND FAMILY LAW

GUIDANCE THAT MOVES LIVES FORWARD

Prenuptial Agreements

Prenuptial agreements are essential tools that safeguard "separate property" interest, protect inheritances, and deﬁne the terms for the division of future income, assets, and liabilities. These agreements provide clarity and security, helping individuals avoid potential disputes in the event of divorce.

Post-Nuptial Agreements

Well-crafted postnuptial agreements provide ﬁnancial security and complement broader estate plans, wills, and multigenerational wealth strategies. These agreements protect both parties and create a window for couples to work through marital challenges.

Post-Judgment Modiﬁcations

Life can change unexpectedly. And when there is a "substantial change in circumstances," adjustments to alimony, child support, and custody arrangements may be necessary. Post-judgment modiﬁcations revise your separation agreement to reflect current realities and ensure fairness for all parties involved.

Needle | Cuda stands at the forefront of ultrahigh-net-worth divorce litigation in lower Fairﬁeld County, Connecticut. Serving clients from Greenwich to Westport, our attorneys oﬀer skilled and forceful representation in complex divorce cases. ese matters often involve nuanced division of property/assets (including family and closely held businesses), complex income division, and contested child custody matters.

Needle | Cuda employs strategic dispute resolution methods, such as mediation, binding arbitration, and negotiation that safeguard your privacy and reputation. Known for discretion and excellence, Needle | Cuda is one of Connecticut’s most trusted advocates in family law.

Westport Oﬃce: 830 Post Road East, Suite 301 203-557-9500 • NeedleCuda.com

Attorney Melissa Needle

Attorney Alexander J. Cuda

Ownership Statement Westport Magazine U.S. Postal Service. Statement of Ownership, Management, and Circulation. (Required by 39 U.S.C. 3685) 1. Publication Title: Westport. 2. Publication No.: 1941-9821. 3. Filing Date: October 1, 2024. 4. Issue Frequency: 6 times. 5. Number of Issues Published Annually: 6. 6. Annual Subscription Price: $19.95. 7. Complete Mailing Address of Known Office of Publication: 205 Main Street, Westport, CT 06880. 9. Full Names and Complete Mailing Addresses of Publisher, Editor, and Managing Editor: Gabriella Mays, Publisher, 205 Main Street, Westport, CT 06880. Samantha Yanks, Editor, 205 Main Street, Westport, CT 06880. Samantha Yanks, Managing Editor, 205 Main Street, Westport, CT 06880. 10. Owner: Moffly Media. 11. Known Bondholders, Mortgages, and Other Security Holders Owning or Holding 1 Percent or More of Total Amount of Bonds, Mortgages, or Other Securities: None. 12. For Completion by Nonprofit Organizations Authorized to Mail at Special Rates: Not applicable to Westport Magazine. 13. Publication Title: Westport. 14. Issue Date for Circulation Data Below: September/October 2024. 15. Extent and Nature of Circulation: a. Total Number of Copies (net press run): *5,482 **5,754; b(1). Paid/Requested Outside-County Mail Subscription Stated on Form 3541: *269 ** 257; b(2). Paid In-County Subscriptions: *1,025 **980; b(3). Sales Through Dealers and Carriers, Street Vendors, Counter Sales, and Other Non-USPS Paid Distribution: *596 **450; b(4). Other Classes Mailed Through the USPS: *116 **105; c. Total Paid and/or Requested Circulation (Sum of 15b (1), (2), (3), (4): *2,006 **1,792; d. Free Distribution by Mail (Samples, Complimentary, and Other Free): d(1). Outside-County as Stated on Form 3541: *0 **0; d(2). In-County as Stated on Form 3541: *1,973 **1,979; d(3). Other Classes Mailed Through the USPS *0 **0; d(4). Free Distribution Outside the Mail (Carriers or Other Means): *1,136 **1,458; e. Total Free or Nominal Rate Distribution (Sum of 15d (1), (2), (3), (4): *3,109**3,437; f. Total Distribution (Sum of 15c and 15e): *5,115 **5,229; g. Copies Not Distributed: *367 **525; h. Total (Sum of 15f, 15g): *5,482 **5,754; i. Percent Paid and/or Requested Circulation (15c divided by 15f. times 100): *39.22 percent **34.27 percent. 17. This Statement of Ownership will be printed in the November/December 2024 issue of this Publication. 18. I certify that all information furnished on this form is true and complete. I understand that anyone who furnishes false or misleading information on this form or who omits material or information requested on this form may be subject to criminal sanctions (including multiple damages and civil penalties). Elena V. Moffly, Business Manager/Treasurer, October 1, 2024. *Average No. Copies Each Issue During Proceeding 12 Months. **Actual No. Copies of Single Issue Published Nearest to Filing Date.

TOP DOCTORS

County on our annual Top Doctors list Put your practice in the spotlight in our Medical Proﬁles section. Here you can provide information on your practice philosophies, background and qualiﬁcations. Reach an audience of 200,000+ discerning readers who expect the best of the best.

A Love Letter to Westport

by susan and noah fenn

As our family approaches 10 years in Westport, we can’t help but feel grateful to live in such a wonderful town.

Prior to Westport, we were nomads in search of a place to call home. We spent a decade living between New York, China, and Boston. As our children approached elementary school, we renewed our search for a vibrant and safe town with outstanding public schools. Westport topped that list.

Within weeks of moving here, we were blown away by how much Westport has to offer — Compo Beach, Longshore, a vibrant downtown, easy access to hiking trails, the dog park, a state-of-the-art library, the Levitt Pavilion… the list goes on.

But what makes Westport truly unique is the clear sense of community, and how so many of us choose to live here to engage with vibrant,

driven, and open-minded people.

A clear example is the creation of StartUp Westport. Pillars of our business community, such as our co-founder Cliff Sirlin, joined forces with First Selectwoman Jen Tooker with the mission of enabling and activating entrepreneurship and innovation in Westport. In under 18 months, StartUp Westport has grown to over 1500 members across Fairfield County. Each of our events at The Westport Library are attended by hundreds of people with a strong desire to learn and connect.

The value StartUp Westport has unlocked, paired with the caliber of seasoned professionals who want to “pay it forward”, led us to develop a Mentorship Program – an initiative to nurture the next wave of entrepreneurship in Westport and surrounding communities, foster local collaboration, and bridge the opportunity gap for historically marginalized groups.

In less than 6 months, our Mentorship Program has grown to over 180 people. We have facilitated over 45 1:1 mentorship pairings, host monthly Mentorship Circles, and support a quarterly large-group education series with topics ranging from Diverse Entrepreneurship (partnering with Westport 10) and Female Founders & Funders (partnering with the Tidal River Fund).

The opportunity to lead this initiative –and experience its rapid growth and impact – is a gift made possible by the unwavering support, generosity, and passion of our local community and public leadership. And we are just getting started!

If you feel as passionately as we do about the value of mentorship and coming together as a community to help each other thrive, please consider joining StartUp Westport and our Mentorship Program by visiting www. startupwestport.org