Westport Magazine, November - December 2018 by Moffly Media

LIGHT A FIRE 2018

Honoring Those Who Help

ARTâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S TOUGH TALK: #UNLOAD Mary Himes and Helen Klisser During

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Cheers! A touch of tradition, a dash of sparkle and a whole lot of wonderful at home

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THE 200 OUTSTANDING LAWYERS IN FAIRFIELD COUNTY

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CONTENTS NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018

62 DEPARTMENTS 18 | EDITOR’S LETTER 21 | BUZZ One Vote puts elections into focus • Ann Chernow and Miggs Burroughs frame the bad guys • Mitchells celebrates its makeover • Next-generation STEM education • Secrets of menopause

30 | SHOP Holiday gift guide to amazing finds

42 | GO The new Lexus • Quick escape to the handsome and historic Glenmere Mansion

46 | HOME Jennifer O’Reilly’s holiday-loving Westport home

HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE PAGE 30 Soleil Toile

FEATURES

62 | Let’s Have a Party

Throw a heartwarming block party as the season turns chilly. These Westport friends need little reason to get together and enjoy entertaining at home. BY DIANE SEMBROT

68 | Heroes Among Us

Celebrate the best of the season with the inspiring stories of locals who give back. Each day, these Light a Fire honorees make a difference in our community. BY JILL JOHNSON

82 | The Art of Conversation

Mitchells

Mary Himes and Helen Klisser During take on one of the biggest issues in the country. With #UNLOAD, they reframe how we talk about guns in terms of politics. BY TIMOTHY DUMAS

93 | Top Lawyers

For the big things in life, you’ll want a top lawyer in your corner. Worry no more—here is the updated list for 2018 of Fairfield County’s top pros.

Joie

Organachs

WESTPORT NOV/DEC 2018, VOL. 20, NO. 6 WESTPORT (USPS/ISSN 1941-9821) is published bi-monthly by Moffly Media, Inc., 205 Main St, Westport, CT 06880. Periodical postage paid at Westport, CT, and additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Please send address changes (Form 3579) to WESTPORT, PO Box 9309, Big Sandy, TX 75755-9607. U.S. Subscription rates: $19.95/ 1 year, $34.95/2 years; Canada and Foreign $44/1 year, $72/2 years.

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PARTY PHOTO BY KYLE NORTON; ALL IMAGES COURTESY OF DESIGNERS/BRANDS

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

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EAT: FISH BY THOMAS MCGOVERN; PEOPLE: GABRIELA DIAZ BOOK SIGNING BY BOB CAPAZZO; HOME: NEW CANAAN HOLIDAY HOUSE TOUR BY JANE BEILES; GO: GLENMERE, SARGENT; SHOP: CHARLIE BOOTS, CONTRIBUTED

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VISIT, DISCOVER, SHARE.

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Experience unsurpassed views from the exquisite rooftop of this magnificent Compo Beach home. Finished on 4 levels w/elevator, this unique home showcases spectacular design, quality & attention to detail that the builder is renowned for. $3,099,000 | MLS# 170098961 | Jillian Klaff Homes | 203.227.4343

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Imagine an upscale custom home built in 2013 to include the best of contemporary, colonial and cottage styles. Welcome to Sterling Drive, where you can walk to the community beach or view the Long Island Sound from one of your 3 decks! $2,575,000 | MLS# 170129161 | Jeanette Dryburgh & Associates | 203.227.4343

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There’s no time like the present

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Executive Vice President, Connecticut Branch

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When it comes to preparing for your financial future, there’s no time like the present to ensure you’re on track. And who better to help you than Georgette Geller. For the past 28 years, Georgette has dedicated her career to helping women as they build their wealth, develop their careers and has provided guidance to help ensure they are well-prepared for their financial futures. And, it all started with a simple conversation. Grab a coffee with Georgette today and see for yourself.

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VOL. 20 NO. 6 NOV/DEC 2018 CREATIVE DIRECTOR

Amy Vischio EXECUTIVE EDITOR

Cristin Marandino

editorial EDITOR

Diane Talbot Sembrot MARKET EDITOR

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Joey Macari BOOKS CORRESPONDENT

Emily Liebert CONTRIBUTING EDITORS Julee Kaplan–NEW CANAAN•DARIEN•ROWAYTON Camilla A. Herrera–STAMFORD COPY EDITORS

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Meaghan Casey, Terry Christofferson, Kathy Satterfield CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Carol Leonetti Dannhauser, Timothy Dumas, Beth Cooney Fitzpatrick, Chris Hodenfield, Jill Johnson CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Pamela Einarsen, Melani Lust, Kyle Norton EDITORIAL ADVISORY BOARD

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

art SENIOR ART DIRECTOR

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SENIOR ART DIRECTOR, STATUS REPORT

Garvin Burke

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Katie DeFlorio Conte DESIGN ASSISTANT

Taylor Stroili

CONTRIBUTING ART DIRECTORS Paula Winicur–NEW CANAAN/DARIEN and FAIRFIELD LIVING PRODUCTION DIRECTOR

Kerri Rak

digital media DIGITAL MEDIA MANAGER

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Diane Sembrot Calendar@MofflyMedia.com Editor@WestportMag.com Weddings@WestportMag.com TO SUBSCRIBE, renew or change your address, please e-mail us

at subscribe@westportmag.com, call 1-877-467-1735, or write to Westport magazine, 111 Corporate Drive, Big Sandy, TX 75755. U.S. subscription rates: $19.95/1 year (6 issues), $34.95/2 years (12 issues), $44.95/3 years (18 issues); Canada and foreign, US $44/1 year. Prices are subject to change without notice. FOR QUALITY CUSTOM REPRINTS/E-PRINTS, please call Kerri Rak at 203-571-1645 or e-mail reprints@mofflymedia.com. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. No part of this periodical may be reproduced without express permission of the publisher. © 2018 Westport Magazine is a registered trademark owned by Moffly Media. The opinions expressed by writers commissioned for articles published by Westport Magazine are not necessarily those of the magazine.

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HEY, BREAST CANCER. YOU SPREAD DOUBT. WE SPREAD HOPE.

With Memorial Sloan Kettering Physicians at Norwalk Hospital, we offer the most advanced therapies to treat even the most difficult types of breast cancer. The first thing we treat is a person’s spirit. Because any breast cancer diagnosis can be distressing, regardless of the type. But patients can take comfort in knowing that our unique collaboration provides the most advanced targeted treatment options for even the most difficult types of breast cancer—close to home. And with Memorial Sloan Kettering medical oncologists working alongside Norwalk Hospital’s cancer experts, it’s no wonder hope is growing. For more information, visit MSKatNorwalk.org.

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Luxury home sellers trust the number one brokerage in Greenwich

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EDITOR’S Letter

DIANE SEMBROT

Being Present tend to think about who and what really matters to them—who and what makes a difference, reflects their personal beliefs and/or simply makes them happy. It’s a chance to slow down and appreciate the people who, and moments that, add to our lives. This issue looks at what brings meaning to us, such as philanthropy and advocacy, and adds joy, like friendly gettogethers and good food. Take philanthropy. Our Light a Fire feature, on people who volunteer or support nonprofit work locally, focuses the spotlight on issues that motivate people to get involved. These are the issues that move someone from simply caring about something to doing something about it. In the case of our honorees, they go to extraordinary lengths to help others. This year, Westporters may be especially touched by the story of Gary Mendell, who founded Shatterproof. This nonprofit takes on addiction with a fierce determination that is matched only by compassion. Inside, we also look at the support we find from our friends and neighbors. We celebrate a group of Westporters who need absolutely no reason to meet up, lay out a

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spread of food and drinks, strum the guitar by a warm bonfire and indulge in the simple pleasures of stress-free time together. When you’re not up to hosting even a casual party, you can still easily meet up for a bite at a restaurant. Our towns certainly have plenty of good options. We sent writer Georgette Yacoub and Editorial Assistant Joey Macari to Georgetown, which bumps up against multiple town borders. It’s worth the drive to get in on the secret of the good food there. We check out Washington Prime and a few of the other nearby options. It’s the closest feeling to a getaway that you can get without any actual planning involved. We also have a gift section that is stuffed with dozens of good finds for the holidays. Find presents for him, for her, for the kids—and for you, too. This season can be busy with good things. I hope you enjoy all of them, but especially those that matter most to you. Happy Holidays!

Stay in touch! dianes@mofflymedia.com

WILLIAM TAUFIC

AROUND THIS TIME OF YEAR, PEOPLE

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EVERYONE HAS A STORY TO TELL

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BUZZ status report

ONE VOTE • EXHIBIT OF CRIMINALS • MITCHELLS PARTY • STEM EDUCATION • HEALTH

Power of

One PHOTO OF CHRISTINE & EMILY BY LARA FORSTMANN, IMDB STILLS PROPERTY OF ONE VOTE PRODUCTIONS LLC

Filmmakers Christine Woodhouse and Emily Wachtel focus on the realities of voting

ith the gubernatorial elections coming up on November 6, polling sites across Connecticut are expected to fill with voters young and old. That's the hope, anyway. With their documentary film One Vote, which has toured major U.S. film festivals since its debut last March, director Christine Woodhouse and producer Emily Wachtel focus on the day after the debates and campaigns wrap up. The film, though political, presents a nonpartisan view of the electoral process in six different locations across the country as seen through the lens of five stories, including a former felon with reinstated voting rights, an Alaskan family who trudges through the snow to get to the polls and a gospel-singing physician in South Carolina. Read on to learn how Woodhouse, a Weston resident, and Wachtel, who hails from Westport, conceived the project and how they got Warren Buffett on board. —Joey Macari

Q&A with the FILMMAKERS HOW HAS MAKING THE FILM NONPARTISAN STRENGTHENED IT? “At our core, we are not that partisan—although media is making us more that way. The only way to really understand this aspect of voting is to see it and to judge it for yourself. That is why the film is centered on the Election Day experiences of real voters, rather than political pundits talking about voting in general terms.”

HOW DID YOU SETTLE ON THESE FIVE VOTERS—AND IN WHAT WAYS DO THEY DEFINE TODAY'S VOTING EXPERIENCE? CW “We wanted to show the experiences of diverse voters, from different parts of the country, because that is Election Day in the U.S.—voting in Alaska is very different from voting in Chicago or in South Carolina. But, interestingly, the characters we selected to film on Election Day also shared things in common. They are all more passionate about participating and helping other people [access the polls] than about a particular candidate or issue.”

(top) Warren Buffett with press • (above) A voter in Omaha, Nebraska, encourages voting in the 2016 election.

WHAT ROLE DO YOU HOPE ONE VOTE WILL SERVE ON THIS YEAR'S ELECTION DAY? “Clearly, the U.S. feels more divided today than it did two years ago, when we set out to make a film that would provide a counterpoint to the constant media coverage about deepening political division. For a period of time, we were worried that One Vote would feel naïve in the context of everything that has happened since Election Day 2016. For example,

there is no reference to election interference or Russian hackers in any of the stories. But audience reaction to the film has shown us that people really feel a need to be reminded of the positive, the human aspects, of our democracy—the ways in which we are more alike than different. People may walk into the film not believing that they can watch something about Election Day that isn’t partisan, but after they see it, they can’t imagine the stories being told any other way.” »

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018 WESTPORT

BUZZ

HOW DID YOU GET WARREN BUFFETT ON BOARD THIS PROJECT? “After Warren Buffett announced that he would be spending Election Day aboard a trolley, helping voters in Omaha needing a ride to the polls, he received more than 100 media requests to accompany him. His office granted one. That was our film. Omaha is an important congressional district on Election Day because it is a swing district in one of only two states that awards its electoral college votes by district. So, it is a compelling example of how much voting varies by state. That’s the process in the United States and something we wanted to show in the film.”

For news coverage of the film and information on upcoming screenings, go online to onevote.us or head to facebook.com /OneVote Movie.

Note: Answers edited for fit.

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Good to be Bad Two of Westport's legendary artists team up to take on old-school criminals

hat happens when you merge three Westport icons? Something wonderful. The iconic Westport Country Playhouse has a new addition by way of The Gallery. Enter icons two and three: painter/ printmaker Ann Chernow and graphic artist/photographer Miggs Burroughs. These town treasures will present Amazing Grace, a joint exhibit that marks the launch of the playhouse gallery space. “We are delighted that the Westport Country Playhouse is partnering with the Westport

Ann Chernow and Miggs Burroughs

Public Art Collections and the Westport Artists Collective to create a new gallery space,” says Managing Director Michael Barker. “It will showcase the varied and vibrant visual arts scene in Westport and celebrate the role of the playhouse as one of the town’s cultural centers.” Chernow and Burroughs have intriguing stories to tell.

(left) Film Noir by Ann Chernow • (right) Criminals, young and old, in splitscreen images to simulate transitional effect of lenticulars by Miggs Burroughs

Because of their mutual respect for each other’s art, they chose to create an exhibition together. Chernow’s work is based on impressions related to film noir, the American movie genre of the ’30s and ’40s. For this show, her “Fictitious icons,” Chernow digitally abstracts the portraits of these noir starlets, so their stories and foibles, written and displayed, are not readily identifiable. Visual “hints” allow the viewer to decipher each image. Burroughs, fascinated with the portrayal of time, uses this theme in his images, transitioning from innocent baby to aging miscreant. This medium allows the viewer to travel back and forth at their discretion via what he

calls “Enfants Terrible,” a series of mugshots of thugs and crooks from New York City dating back to the early 1900s. “It is my attempt to get us all to lament their loss of innocence,” he says, “and to examine the paths we have all taken since birth.” He uses his lenticular camera (as Chernow, her brush) to depict criminals with their rap sheets flagrantly displayed. Amazing Grace unites Chernow’s twenty-four bad girls with Burroughs’ twenty-four ne’er-do-wells. This dynamic duo’s exhibit runs November 24 (5–8 p.m.) through December 22 (Tues.–Fri., noon–6 p.m.) at Westport Country Playhouse, 25 Powers Court. —Judith Marks-White

ALL IMAGES CONTRIBUTED

“One Vote is not about one person changing the results of an election by voting, because from the point of view of the film, elections are not about the result. There is always another election around the corner. It’s about the fact that every vote is cast one at a time by someone with a unique perspective. The film is really about having faith— faith not only in ourselves and our own value when we choose to participate, but also in our fellow citizens. That’s the feeling we hope people walk away from the film with.”

Let’s build a brighter world. greens farms academy Be ready for joy. Be ready for wonder. Be ready to dream. Be ready for curiosity and complexity, for Signature Programs and service learning, for empowering Responsive Classrooms, and life-changing discussions around Harkness Tables. Be ready to push yourself. Be ready to define what excellence means. Discover the world we’re building. PREK-4 OPEN HOUSES: NOVEMBER 7 | DECEMBER 4 8:30 AM GRADES 5-12 OPEN HOUSE: OCTOBER 25, 7:00 PM RSVP at www.gfacademy.org/admissions or simply give us a call to start the conversation and schedule a tour: 203-256-7514.

BUZZ

Frıends Forever

3 1 Brunello Cucinelli women's shop 2 The Peter Millar collection 3 Women's shoes, with additional designer lines 4 The renovated men's department

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o one should have expected Mitchells to let its sixtieth anniversary pass quietly. The third-generation family-owned and -run men’s and women’s specialty store—known for carrying the most sought-after, high-end fashion brands—isn’t exactly a wallflower. The store exceeded all expectations, and exceptionalism is exactly what we should have anticipated. Mitchells threw not one, but two, parties: one for its longtime customers, the second for one and all in the community. In addition to the Champagne popping, the sixty-year milestone coincided with the unveiling of a ten-months-long renovation and expansion of the flagship store (the family owns eight freestanding locations, including Richards in Greenwich, Wilkes Bashford in San Francisco and Palo Alto, and Marios in Seattle and Portland). The more than 25,000 square feet of crisp and glossy shopping space features even more designer clothing, jewelry and accessories from iconic lines alongside emerging brands that are sure to become quick favorites. The women’s department adds nine new designers, namely: Thom Browne, Gabriela Hearst, Roland Mouret, Nili Lotan, R13, Safiyaa, Rachel Gilbert, Aspesi and Le Kasha. The accessories department has more elbow room to find pieces from all of

the long-loved names (including The Row, Saint Laurent, Fendi, Chloe and Jimmy Choo) as well as new ones (Valextra, Isabel Marant, Santoni, Common Projects, Francesco Russo and Maliparmi). Mitchells even secured local exclusivity for some, so if one-of-a-kind is on your wish list, just ask. Also, the jewelry shines even brighter, with more than fifty designers, such as Temple St. Clair and Sylva & Cie. Fine jewelers Kwiat, Oscar Heyman, Louis Newman and Bayco showcase more from David Webb, Hoorsenbuhs and Pasquale Bruni. The men’s tailored-clothing department of 1958 wouldn’t recognize its present look. The dressing room and lounge area are completely renovated, and the department welcomes more brands and five new shop-in-shop boutiques: Ermenegildo Zegna, Brunello Cucinelli, Loro Piana, Peter Millar and Atelier Munro. As an over-the-top bonus, Mitchells threw in a new 1,500-square-foot showroom in midtown Manhattan to provide by-appointment-only service to its customers in the city. Mitchells is a master class in going above and beyond, and looking good while doing good. Here’s your exclusive look at party highlights, which took place in early fall. More at shop.mitchellstores.com. —Diane Sembrot

PHOTOGRAPHS BY ROBERT NORMAN

At sixty, Mitchells celebrates its legacy of new fashion with timeless hugs

BUZZ

IT’S A PARTY!

Were you there? Enjoy these exclusive candids from Mitchells VIP celebration, which took place on September 20. The event, “60 Magical Years,” was sponsored in style by famed fashion designer Ermenegildo Zegna. Guests sipped Champagne, bagged sweets from a bountiful candy bar and entered chances to win prizes. Mostly, though, the event was about being surrounded by family and friends to celebrate Mitchells as a store that feels like a fashionable home away from home.

PHOTOGRAPHS BY ROBERT NORMAN

1 First Selectman Jim Marpe with Bill Mitchell 2 Jack Mitchell, Robert Aldrich and Bob Mitchell 3 Mitchells Buyers Angela Peretti and Lauren Perez with Mitchells Style Advisor Eleni Kasparis 4 Guests enjoy the conveyor belt of bites 5 Susan Saiter, Sonny Kleinfield and Jack Mitchell 6 Mitchells Men’s GMM Dan Farrington, Robert Aldrich, Mitchells Style Advisor Rita Roman and Mario Bisio 7 Jim and Mary Ellen Marpe with Bill Mitchell 8 Bob Mitchell with Mindee and Paul Blanco 9 Creative Champagne service by Marcia Selden 10 Keys for a chance to win a prize 11 Balloons mark the entry to the festivities.

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018 WESTPORT

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Michael Mitchell, of St. Luke's School, on the new thinking in STEM education

hen Westport magazine met Carolina Warneryd for the Teens to Watch issue, published in September, she spoke passionately about her education at St. Luke’s School. Located on forty acres in nearby New Canaan, this private, secular, coeducational college-preparatory day school, grades 5 through 12, draws students from many towns in Connecticut and New York. Carolina specifically mentioned STEM (science, technology, engineering and math), which turned our thoughts to the future of teaching it. We were introduced to Michael Mitchell, director of the school’s designLab, and told that he is ahead of the curve in the field. Here’s what he shared via email. —Diane Sembrot

Michael Mitchell

WHAT IS DESIGNLAB? “The designLab is part of St. Luke’s Center for Leadership. It is both a physical fabrication space—housing rapid prototyping and physical computing tools—and an engineering and computer science curriculum. It’s also the home for design thinking at St. Luke’s, a place for students and faculty to learn and practice creative problem-solving.

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We consider a solutionseeking mindset a critical leadership skill.”

HOW DID IT COME ABOUT? “The designLab evolved from our existing curriculum in engineering and computer science. We started with a small fabrication space and one 3-D printer and then one laser cutter. The space was used almost exclusively by engineering students.

When we saw the skills and creativity unleashed in this small space, we decided we had to create a space and program all students and faculty could access. As director of designLab, it’s my job to ensure we have a top engineering and computer science program and that I attract as many ‘nonscientists’ into the designLab as possible. One of the most satisfying aspects of my role is seeing someone who is not naturally drawn to science discover that experimentation and creativity are for everyone.”

WHAT MAKES IT UNIQUE? “To my knowledge, it’s the largest space of its kind in the area. I think it’s unexpected and wonderful that the designLab is located in St. Luke’s new Arts and Humanities wings. That

YOU WERE TRAINED IN STANFORD’S DESIGN THINKING METHOD. WHAT IS IT? “I was fortunate to experience design thinking firsthand at Stanford’s d.school. It’s a user-centered approach that is rooted in empathy and encourages ‘lo-fi’ prototyping and iteration. For example, it’s easy, as a teacher, to work on a lesson or project to the point of near completion before implementing it with students. The design-thinking process would encourage me to involve the students in its development and prototype early in the process so that I can gain feedback and improve it in real time.”

WHAT IS CAROLINA'S SENIOR YEAR PROJECT? “I'm helping her learn AutoCAD, a modeling software, and Arduino, a physical computing platform, so that she can design a sustainable toilet for the Guatemala City Dump and then create her own testing environment—including data logging!—for composting waste. I'm constantly impressed by her curiosity and capacity to dive into the unknown. …She is a serious STEM scholar and equally passionate about social issues.”

THE GREATER SCALE OF STEM “St. Luke’s teachers have really shown me the beauty of math by taking time to explain the big picture behind concepts, and focusing on seeing the patterns rather than memorizing the right formulas. This idea of going deeper into the material applies to other classes as well, from chemistry to physics. I’ve had many breakthrough moments, when I’ve been able to see just how interconnected all of my STEM classes are, from the multivariable functions that appear at the roots of logic gates to the physical properties of chemical substances.” —Carolina Warneryd Note: Answers edited for clarity and fit.

PHOTO OF MICHAEL MITCHELL BY DESIREE SMOCK; CAROLINA WARNERYD BY KYLE NORTON

The Art of Science

really drives home that designLab is valuable across the curriculum. One of the coolest things we do is a weekend Hackathon. Kids collaborate on software and hardware projects and are mentored by alumni and industry experts. It’s a one-of-akind event.”

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Flash News

Your need-to-know tip sheet to all-things menopause

ust about every woman who has experienced the hormonal shifts associated with perimenopause and menopause has braced herself for hot flashes or an extra layer of fat around her midsection. Yet weight gain and drenching night sweats are just poster girls for a much larger subset of physical and emotional changes that can happen when a woman’s ovaries begin releasing less estrogen and their periods stop. “I like to stress to my patients that every woman is unique and every menopause is different,” says Dr. Yvonne Ankrah, an OB/GYN affiliated

with Greenwich Hospital. “There are some women who will never have a hot flash, but there could be so many other things happening in her body that are connected to menopause.” It’s wise, then, for women in this phase of life to check in with their doctors, says Dr. Mary Murray, an OB/GYN affiliated with Yale-New Haven Hospital, whose group practice, Southern Connecticut Women’s Health Care Associates, recently expanded to Westport. “It’s important for us to know everything that’s going on because there’s a lot we can do to help.” —Beth Cooney Fitzpatrick

The Hot List: What you can do to support good health and normalize changes

CONSIDER TAKING ANTIDEPRESSANTS

The drug Effexor has proven effective for treating hot flashes and depression, says Dr. Ankrah.

UP YOUR SUPPLEMENTS

Try omega-3 fatty acids to counteract dry eyes, skin and vaginas, suggests Dr. Murray. Vitamin D and calcium support bone health, while magnesium can alleviate sleep disorders.

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GET SCREENED

Check bone density and cholesterol, and for breast cancer, but keep in mind, “Not everything should be blamed on menopause,” says Dr. Ankrah, who cites thyroid disorders and Lyme disease as conditions that can be confused with change of life symptoms.

CLEAN UP YOUR DIET

Eat less simple sugar and see a nutritionist, suggests Dr. Murray.

PRACTICE GOOD SLEEP

Among Dr. Murray’s tips to patients are “technology breaks” fifteen minutes before bed, and daily meditation.

TRY ALTERNATIVES TO HORMONE REPLACEMENT THERAPY

Dr. Ankrah prescribes oral hormone replacements only as a “last resort.” She prefers healthier options like topically administered hormonal creams to help with vaginal dryness.

CHANGE OF LIFE If you experience any of these symptoms, make sure to discuss them with your doctor Body Odor “In the same way you had more body odor when you became a teen, a woman can develop a stronger odor when she goes through menopause,” says Dr. Ankrah. Bone Loss The loss of estrogen can mark the onset of osteoporosis, which makes bones brittle and prone to breaks. Chronic Dry Eye “The eye, like the vagina, is a mucus membrane and they all tend to get drier during menopause,” says Dr. Murray. Depression/Anxiety Dr. Murray estimates some 60 to 70 percent of pre- or post-menopausal women experience mental health issues. Elevated Cholesterol or Blood Pressure Estrogen and progesterone are heart protective. Even women who had healthy numbers before menopause may see them go up, says Dr. Ankrah, especially if there is a family history. Fuzzy Brain “[Menopausal] women will often tell me they are struggling with focus,” says

Dr. Ankrah. Blame changes in hormone levels, associated sleep disturbances, depression or anxiety. “All woven together they can affect concentration levels.” Food Allergies “We see more food intolerances crop up in women in their late forties,” says Dr. Murray. Gluten and lactose sensitivities can also materialize, even become more acute, she adds. Loss of Libido “A loss of interest in sex and intimacy is common,” says Dr. Ankrah. “Some of it may revolve around vaginal dryness, but there can be an emotional component, too.” Hair Growth “You’ll likely see changes to your skin and nails too, but unwanted hair growth is the thing that seems to bother women a great deal,” says Dr. Ankrah. Insomnia Even many women who don’t suffer from night sweats report erratic sleep patterns. “Good sleep is critical. A lack of it plays a role in Alzheimer’s disease and cancer,” says Dr. Murray. W

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status report

HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE

produced by megan gagnon

CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTIN So Kate Booty in white calfskin; $1,095. us.christian louboutin.com

Make your list. Check it twice. Realize that everyone’s more than just naughty or nice. Whether you’re buying for fashion maximalists or minimalists, modern aesthetes or traditional tastemakers, or those who prefer to go big versus stay home (no judgment here), our guide offers up the perfect presents for every personality. 30

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ALL IMAGES COURTESY OF DESIGNERS/BRANDS

CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTIN So Kate Stripey Glitter Booty; $1,295. Saks Greenwich 10022-Shoe; saks.com

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

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tre Fo n wh d-c spla r th o a has sh e y a f sta ra re no ers nd id t t ou o t

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1. JUDITH LEIBER COUTURE Clutch; $5,695. judithleiber.com 2. CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTIN So Kate Booty; $1,295. Saks Greenwich 10022-Shoe; saks.com 3. SAINT LAURENT Vicky bag; $1,990. Mitchells, Westport; shop.mitchellstores.com 4. VINCE Skirt; $265. Greenwich, Westport; vince.com 5. MACKAGE Jacket; $690. mackage.com 6. MARC CAIN Dress; $590. The Westchester; marc-cain.com 7. VERONICA BEARD Belt; $350. intermixonline.com 8. JOIE Blazer; $498. Greenwich, Westport; joie.com 9. THE VOLON Bag; $1,175. Shari's Place, Greenwich; sharisplace.com 10. J. CREW Top; $79.50. Greenwich, New Canaan, Westport; jcrew.com 11. NIC+ZOE Calle; $135. Westport; nicandzoe.com 12. ANN TAYLOR Faux fur stole; $79.50. New Canaan; anntaylor.com 13. HOBBS Coat; $700. Greenwich; hobbs.com 14. DIANE VON FURSTENBERG Gloves; $268. Tina Dragone, Darien; tinadragone.com 15. STUART WEITZMAN Charlie in Bridle Devon; $798. Greenwich; stuartweitzman.com 16. COACH Quinn satchel; $375. Lord & Taylor, Stamford; lordandtaylor.com 17. WARBY PARKER Hunt Wide sunglasses; starting at $95. Greenwich; warbyparker.com

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MORE SCIENCE. LESS FEAR.

SHOP 8 1

2 9

Give “Blue Christmas” a whole new meaning

Bold Baubles

vs.

Subtle Sparklers 5

These pieces set the gold standard for everyday jewelry

12 13

14 6

1. ROBERTO COIN Princess Flower diamond earrings; $8,500. Manfredi Jewels, Greenwich, New Canaan; manfredijewels.com 2. GRAFF Diamond Bombe necklace; price upon request. Saks Greenwich The Vault; saks.com 3. PETER SUCHY JEWELERS Antique aqua sapphire ring; $18,895. Stamford; petersuchyjewelers.com 4. NAM CHO 18k gold sapphire and diamond earrings; price upon request. Mitchells, Westport; shop.mitchells.com 5. STEVEN FOX JEWELRY 17.13 ct blue sapphire diamond platinum ring; $165,000. Greenwich; stevenfoxjewelry.com 6. SHREVE, CRUMP & LOW 19.48 ct sapphire and diamond bracelet; $37,500. Greenwich; shrevecrumpandlow.com 7. BUSATTI Pavé diamond bangle; $21,200. Betteridge, Greenwich; betteridge.com 8. TIFFANY & CO. Assorted Tiffany T necklaces; starting at $975. Greenwich, Westport; tiffany.com 9. KVO COLLECTIONS Bar bracelet; $420; kvocollections.com 10. JL ROCKS Axis ring; $1,850. Westport; jlrocks.com 11. DAVID YURMAN Stax color ring; $4,700. Lux Bond & Green, Westport; lbgreen.com 12. JACQUELINE ROSE Crystal quartz globe ring; $175. Mis en Scene, Greenwich; misenscenehome.com 13. LIVEWELL DESIGN Nada earrings; $3,025. Pimlico, New Canaan; pimlicointeriors.com 14. LANA JEWELRY Mini sunrise hoops with diamonds; $420. Henry C. Reid, Fairfield; hcreidjewelers.com 15. ASHA BY ASHLEY MCCORMICK Zodiac rings; $295 each. Greenwich; ashabyadm.com 16. HULCHI BELLUNI Fidget bracelets; starting at $2,780. Nagi, Stamford; nagijewelers.com

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HERSHEY FELDER PRESENTS

DECEMBER 5–22 adapted and directed by

HERSHEY FELDER based on the book

THE CHILDREN OF WILLESDEN LANE by Mona Golabek and Lee Cohen

“Deeply affecting! Graceful, restrained, and quietly captivating.” THE NEW YORK TIMES

-WEEK RUN! E E R H T L L U F A R O DEMAND F BACK BY POPULAR

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The diet starts January 1. Until then, it’s all about eating, drinking and being merry

Ind De ulg l e Fe vs ight nt e s Fin l-Go . ds od

A self-care starter kit for a more mindful and healthy holiday

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1. TERRAIN Reclaimed wood serving plank; $198. Westport shopterrain.com 2. CORAVIN Model Two Elite wine system; $350. The Perfect Provenance, Greenwich; theperfectprovenance.com 3. ASSOULINE The Impossible Collection of Wine; $845. Hoagland’s, Greenwich; hoaglands.com 4. EBERJEY Frida PJ set; $120. Soleil Toile, New Canaan, Westport; soleiltoile.com 5. CARL AUBOCK Brass and leather nutcracker; $389. The Glass House Design Store, New Canaan; designstore. theglasshouse.org 6. SIMON PEARCE Bristol caviar set; $100. Greenwich, Westport; simonpearce.com 7. POPPY HAND-CRAFTED POPCORN Holiday cylinders; $21.50 each. Beehive, Fairfield; thebeehivefairfield.com 8. ZOJIRUSHI 11 oz. stainless mug with tea leaf filter; $45. amazon.com 9. UMA Ultimate Brightening Rose Toner; $65. Orgánachs Farm to Skin, Westport; organachsfarmtoskin.com 10. LA MER Advent calendar; $400. Saks Fifth Avenue, Greenwich; saks.com 11. TORY SPORT Tonal chevron leggings; $98. torysport.com 12. ERNO LASZLO Phormula 3-9 Repair Cream; $275. Williams & Company, Darien; williamsandcompany.md 13. INNER LIGHT Gift Card. Darien; innerlight-wellness.com 14. SAVANNAH BEE COMPANY Sourwood Honey Gold Reserve; $99. Westport; savannahbee.com 15. PELOTON Bike; $2,245. Westport; onepeloton.com 16. VITRUVI Stone Diffuser; $119. vitruvi.com

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2018 awards

what a night! SPECIAL THANKS TO ALL OF OUR 2018 SPONSORS PRESENTING SPONSORS

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1. BACCARAT Heritage tumblers; $660 for set of two. Greenwich; us.baccarat.com 2. WEST ELM Nutcracker; starting at $29. Westport; westelm.com 3. WATERWORKS Ice bucket; $650. Greenwich; waterworks.com 4. VENDOME Haute Bohemians; $65. The Collected Home, Rowayton; thecollectedhome .com 5. TOZAI HOME Serving set; $120 for pair. Lillian August, Norwalk; lillianaugust.com 6. MITCHELL GOLD + BOB WILLIAMS Alabaster tray; $545. Greenwich; mgbwhome.com 7. OOMPH Venetian glass match strike;$465. Greenwich; oomphonline.com 8. CRATE & BARREL Old-fashioned glasses; $39.95 for set of four. Westport; crateandbarrel.com 9. RALPH LAUREN HOME Brennan clock; $895. New Canaan; ralphlauren.com 10. WILLIAMS SONOMA Bay leaf wreath; $70. Westport; williams-sonoma.com 11. JOANNA BUCHANAN Wick trimmer; $98. Kirby and Company, Darien; kirbyandcompany.com 12. THE 203 Camper mug; $18. No. 299, Fairfield; no299.com 13. NEST Birchwood Pine 3-wick candle; $68. Browne & Co., Darien; dianebrowne.com 14. AUGUST MORGAN Cocktail napkins; $50 for set of four. Nantucket Monogram, New Canaan; nantucketmonogram.com

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Leisurely luxuries for those who prefer to do their exploring online

Te ch &

Ad vs Toy s ve . n Ge tu ar re

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1. JUNIPER BOOKS Adventures of Tintin book set; $165. juniperbooks.com 2. SONOS Play:5; $499. Best Buy, Norwalk; bestbuy.com 3. HERMÈS Tarot cards; $120. Greenwich; hermes.com 4. RH Leather dominoes set; $171. Greenwich, Westport; rh.com 5. LEGO James Bond Aston Martin DB5; $149. shop.lego.com 6. MASTER & DYNAMIC MH40 headphones in White; $399. GDV, Greenwich; graysondevere.com 7. LOOG Mini guitar; $79. Saltwater, Fairfield; saltwaterct.com 8. BARBOUR Foreland quilted coat; $399. Westport; barbour.com 9. UGG Double-faced sheepskin mittens; $129. Orvis, Darien, Norwalk; orvis.com 10. YETI Hopper Flip 8 cooler; $200. Darien Sport Shop; dariensport.com 11. VICTORINOX SWISS ARMY Classic pocket knife; $225. swissarmy.com 12. PUBLIC BIKES FOR SERENA & LILY Limited edition C7 bike; $598. Westport; serenaandlily.com 13. FJÄLLRÄVEN Kånken backpack; $80. Greenwich; fjallraven.us. W

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Cooler temps are no match for these outdoor enthusiasts

it’s a wrap!

flaunt it

wag it

sing it

buy it

visit our online holiday gift guide. IMAGES LEFT TO RIGHT: ©ALARSON/ADOBE STOCK, ©JONFENNEL/ADOBE STOCK, ©DESTINA/ADOBE STOCK

Shopping locally has never been so much fun.

ilovefc.com/giftguide

status report

LEXUS ES 350 • GLENMERE MANSION • BOOK PICKS

Quiet Strength I

f the morning commute takes you past the blasting of heavy construction, a good car to consider would be the Lexus ES 350. The noise will be turned to a distant rustle with the crumbling road smooth as butter on mashed potatoes. This is the perfect car for the stressed-out driver, who may just emerge from the stylish sedan with noticeably reduced blood pressure. The ES model has been revamped for 2019; it’s the seventh generation of a car that debuted only in 1989. Whereas it once was a glossy redo of a Toyota Avalon, it is

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now a sumptuous sedan in the The new colors offered include “just right” size. The electronics Moonbeam Beige Metallic, are all up to date, with Apple which surely sounds like a CarPlay, Amazon Alexa for Frank Zappa song. Android users (allowing carWith a new chassis, the ES to-home commands), Verizon is wider and longer by a few WiFi, and a raft of safety inches from its predecessor. sensors. The engine is 34 It continues with horses stronger, and Lexus ES 350 Lexus’s spindle-grill the transmission motif up front and goes from six speeds Base price adds many swooping to eight. So, it’s $39,500 sculptural touches faster and gets Drivetrain to give it a more better mileage at the 302-hp, 3.5-liter aggressive style. same time. V6. FWD Neighbors might For those who EPA Mileage even think you really want the Rating sprang for the larger mileage, consider 22/33 mpg LS 500 starship. the hybrid version,

the ES 300H, which offers even more ghostly quiet around town as it delivers an impressive 45 mpg. But what about the drivers who like a touch more road feel? Lexus is now offering an F-Sport model (base price $45,000) with faster-moving suspension bits should a nice curvy road open up. The ES is front-wheel-drive only, so certain sport-based drivers will go elsewhere. But the ES sings with dozens of virtues, including terrific reliability. In a noisy world, it would be a sound investment. —Chris Hodenfield

CONTRIBUTED

Lexus’s redesigned ES 350 combines bank-vault solidity with swoopy lines

430 Tunxis Hill Road | Fairfield, CT

203-384-0005 EXT: 3102 Rick Hecker

Close Escape Modern luxury in nearby downstate New York

et upon a breathtaking hilltop and surrounded by 150 acres of lush farmlands in the lowerHudson Valley of New York, Glenmere Mansion was once the Gilded Age retreat of the Goelet family. This thirty-five-room Tuscan villa hosted royalty, aristocracy and prominent artists. Now reincarnated as a premier hotel and spa, it offers eighteen guest accommodations, two distinguished restaurants and

recreational facilities (including a chic pool pavilion). It also features formal gardens with terraced vistas and plentiful fountains, which were originally designed by Beatrix Farrand, Americaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s first female landscape architect. While Glenmere is just a one-and-a-halfhour drive from Fairfield County, its European style and sophistication left me feeling as though Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d been transported overseas.

The formal gardens, designed in 1911 by Beatrix Farrand, founding member and only woman of the American Society of Landscape Architects.

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ALL PHOTOGRAPHY: SARGENT

by emily liebert

GO A partial view of the living room with two sofas, gas fireplace (one of three in the two-bedroom, two-bath penthouse suite), writing desk and dining area. The suite also has a private terrace.

skin before washing it off with large bowls of warm water. The experience was truly one of a kind.

EAT

RELAX LIKE ROYALTY Enjoy the better things in life.

STAY

Renowned interior designer Scott Snyder combined historic elegance and modern luxury in the deluxe bedrooms, junior suites and five premium suites, each of which is entirely unique. Decorated with the finest antiques and superior artwork from a private collection, the diverse accommodations feature plush beds, custom-designed Italian linens, marble baths with heated floors and oversized flat-screen TVs. Some rooms have working fireplaces and terraces with spectacular views of the gardens and the lake (mine did!). Feeling extravagant? Charter a helicopter to land on the front lawn, where you’ll be greeted by butlers.

SPA At the exquisite Carrara marble

Bath House & Hammam, the motto is: “Soothe body. Revitalize mind. Invigorate soul.” And that’s exactly what I did. Its bespoke services, from around the world, marry ancient healing traditions and modern techniques to achieve an impeccable spa experience. In addition to massages, facials and bath-andbody rituals, there’s an herbal steam room, dry-heat sauna, stimulating Swiss shower, cool-mist room, aqua-massage vitality pool and a warm-marble Belly Stone. The duet suite has side-by-side soaking tubs and treatment tables, so you can indulge with your partner or a friend. I tried the Turkish Soap Ritual, inspired by Turkish hammams, which is essentially a bubble bath for adults (minus the bathtub). First, my body was warmed on a heated Belly Stone while my spa attaché exfoliated my skin with a handmade Kessa mitt. After that, she used a thick, frothy scrub with moisturizing Castile soap to cleanse my

Award-winning Executive Chef Gunnar Thompson leads the culinary charge at Glenmere, beginning with The Supper Room, an intimate, candlelit dining space with hand-painted eglomise panels depicting the hills of Tuscany. French doors open onto an expansive terrace, which boasts a large Italianate fireplace for cooler evenings. Offering the region’s finest ingredients and premier wines, highlights include the Sweet Corn Soup with slow-roasted tomatoes and toasted sesame vinaigrette, and the Hudson Valley Duck Breast with fresh O’Henry yellow peach, lemon and tarragon panisse, wilted garden

Swiss chard and wineberry jus. For dessert, the double dark chocolate soufflé with Valhrona dark chocolate and Flor de Caña dark rum Crème Anglaise is a must. (The fifteen-minute wait is well worth it!) If you’re looking for lighter lunch fare or a casual dinner, pop into Frogs End tavern for jumbo shrimp cocktail, deviled eggs, salads, burgers and fresh pasta.

PLUS MORE The Hudson Valley offers plenty of options, including historic sites such as West Point and Hyde Park, acclaimed wineries and Woodbury Commons Premium Outlets. Head to Bear Mountain State Park for outdoorsy fun, including biking, hiking, cross-country skiing, sledding and ice skating.

The Bath House/Hammam is a private marble room for water-therapy treatments, with herbal steam room, cool-mist room, sauna, Swiss shower and jet tub with waterfall.

FOR YOUR BOOK BAG

A how-to guide, a psychological thriller and a soul-searching debut round out my three picks to suit whatever mood you’re in.

When’s Happy Hour? by Betches. From New York Times bestselling authors Betches— founders of Betches Media, a viral social media and digital humor company—comes a tongue-incheek guide on how to succeed professionally by being the boss of your career. They offer advice on how to land your dream job, ask for a raise and make it to happy hour twice a week. You’ll laugh out loud and finish feeling empowered.

Girls’ Night Out by Liz Fenton and Lisa Steinke. This powerhouse writing duo (best friends of thirty

years) is back with an unnerving novel of psychological suspense about three estranged friends who all have something to hide. What better place to mend old wounds than the idyllic setting of Tulum, Mexico? When one goes missing, the other two are sent on a wild-goose chase to decipher what happened that fateful night. As the clock ticks and suspicions run deep, you’ll be on the edge of your seat.

Bedside Manners by Heather Frimmer. A Weston resident and radiologist, Frimmer has penned a poignant, soulsearching story about Joyce Novak, a mother who’s diagnosed with breast cancer just as her daughter finishes medical school and is engaged to be married. This one will tug at your heartstrings.

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018 WESTPORT

HOME HOLIDAY HOME

Holiday Traditions with JENNIFER O'REILLY

Past & Present

photography by kyle norton

Jennifer O’Reilly bundles the charms of the holiday season in her historic Westport home

Jennifer O'Reilly with daughter Keleigh

he holiday season is a special time of year for decorating, oftentimes incorporating family traditions. For Jennifer O’Reilly’s historic GoodsellGrumman Toll House in Westport, the tree, wreathes and vignettes are more than to-dos for the season; they’re all inspired by her love of family, history and place. She adorns her home with festive string lights, Santa and reindeer figures, snowwhite garlands and fragrant pine wreaths. Among the traditional decorations, she adds a touch of character and good humor: Buddha statues, ’70s-vibe peace signs, wine corks spilling 46

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from a fireplace, and a framed picture of her friend and hometown hero, the late Paul Newman. Of her family, she says, “We are huge fans of Christmas. In fact, when I was first looking at this house to buy and renovate, it was August and one of the first things my sister Kelly said was, ‘This is the perfect Christmas house.’ ” Each year, Jennifer proves her sister right. Usually, Jennifer embraces a fresh and modern sensibility, but around the holidays, she blends old and new as well as solemnity and cheer. “This jewel box of a home was built in 1760, while we were still paying taxes to the British, by the first family of the Greenfield Hill Church. I am humbled and awed to imagine the hundreds of Christmases that have been enjoyed here, before we were lucky enough to do the same.” Her gratitude and love is on full display as she adds to the home’s story. —Joey Macari

A pine wreath hangs from the front door of the O'Reilly home, built in 1760.

status report

Fireside Cozy “I start ‘dressing’ the house, inside and out, the day after Thanksgiving. It allows us to really enjoy each moment of the season leading up to the big day, as opposed to just one day. Christmas music—and only Christmas music— plays, too. This is law.”

Around the Tree

“Growing up, my mom gave each of us an ornament at Christmastime. It was always something unique and relevant to each of us. For me it was a ballerina or maybe something from a place we had visited that year. When I started my own family, my mom gave me the collection of my childhood ornaments, and I have done the same with my children.”

On the Mantel

“Another tradition, some have called it an obsession, is the thousands and thousands of lights that I insist on. I had very good friends growing up here in Westport whose mom used to 'braid' the lights in and out on the branches, and the result was worthy of Rockefeller Center.”

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018 WESTPORT

HOME

Holiday Traditions By the Windowpane

with JENNIFER O'REILLY

“I haven’t really touched the dining room, out of the respect to the many spirits who have walked on these original chestnut wood floors in this tavern-like space. The cliché ‘If these walls could talk’ is oh so perfect for a room like this. I imagine all the loved ones [who were] served meals made in the living room's walk-in fireplace—that space served as the kitchen in the eighteenth century.”

A Pop of Fun “Now to the corks! It is a working fireplace, but it is very shallow and thirddegree burns are not a guest’s favorite. One of my favorite restaurants on Nantucket is in a beautiful antique house. Each time they open a bottle, the cork gets tossed into the fireplace. I borrowed that idea from there, and, luckily for me, I have local friends who help me with my collection.”

A Christmas Toast “The antique piece in our dining room served as a bedroom bureau in our last house. It has a secret drawer with a secret keyhole that was perfect for hiding jewelry and important papers. In its new life in the dining room, it now serves a much more vital purpose as a bar, just within reach of the dining table, and holds (too many) table linens. The oversized Ralph Lauren lamp makes the room even cozier when candlelight isn’t enough—and makes up for not having a chandelier because of the ceiling height.”

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Beloved Memories “I love to mix tradition with contemporary— something unexpected and whatever ‘speaks’ to you, not following rules. I love the mix of the modern bar cart beneath the wall of blackand-white photos of my parents, grandparents and son. The duo in the center is a nod to Paul Newman, a great family friend and my daughter's godfather. These loved ones, all known to enjoy an adult beverage, get a wink and glass raised to them nightly.” W

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EAT

status report

WASHINGTON PRIME • GEORGETOWN EATS

Table Talk Washington Prime brings good food, good times to Georgetown

rowing up, Dave Studwell was always fascinated when he went out to eat with his dad around his hometown of Weston. “It was a wild scene,” he says, noting the legendary Georgetown Saloon. “I remember the biker bars and Keith Richards stopping in. So, when I found a spot in my neck of the woods, it was a coming home feeling for me.” Dave Studwell and Rob Moss opened Washington Prime Georgetown in June 2016 after the success of their South Norwalk location. “We had a lot of our customers from Ridgefield and Wilton who couldn’t enjoy more than one glass of wine because Route 7 is the worst,”

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says Dave. “We wanted to open a new location closer to some of our guests.” Washington Prime got its name from opening on Washington Street and serving prime steaks. The steaks are, in fact, award-winning, but the restaurant, at its core, is more New American than classic steakhouse. There’s more seafood on the menu than there is red meat. And there is certainly no intention of pigeonholing their style. “Rob and I like to eat everything,” says Dave. If Dave and Rob go to the farmers’ market and there’s a new veggie, they’ll let Chef Armando Sanchez get creative. The task is in good hands considering Chef Armando was awarded

the Greenwich Wine + Food Festival’s Innovative Chef award. “Whatever tastes good, tastes good,” says Dave. “The menu is a little bit of everything for everyone, even vegans and vegetarians. It’s more about appealing to a broader audience instead of limiting guests of their experience.” Speaking of the experience, Washington Prime is not your grandfather’s stuffy steakhouse. There’s a grass wall (yes, a grass wall) decorated with colorful Pop Art. Think portraits of Jack Nicholson smoking a cigar or Jim Carrey in his blue tux from Dumb and Dumber. “It lets you know we’re here to have a good time,” says Dave. They play rock and roll and Motown. They have specialty cocktails with names like Tropic Thunder and Hot & Dirty Martini. “It’s your neighborhood pub with really high-end food. We don’t take ourselves too seriously.” —Georgette Yacoub

PHOTO OF INTERIOR BY TOM MCGOVERN; STEAK TARTARE AND CHEF BY ROB MOSS

The eye-catching interior of Washington Prime • Steak tartare • Executive Chef Armando Sanchez

New Canaan

Darien

Westport, Greenwich, Â New Haven, West Hartford

Fairfield We invite you to enjoy each of our unique expressions of hospitality where our commitment satisfies more than just taste buds.

EAT

A sampling of delicious eats in Georgetown, your go-to destination for good times

REDDING BEER CO.

With all these great restaurants, you’ll want to find a spot to wash it all down. Redding Beer Co. is the newest brewery in town, tapping out seasonal and traditional ales, IPAs and other drink choices—like grown-up sodas, wine and nonalcoholic beverages. What started as a curious interest for Jim Baulsir and his son Dave developed into a business, and they’ve been perfecting their craft (beer that is) ever since.

Milestone

BLACK CAT GRILLE

This is one of those restaurants where you sit down and can’t decide what to order because all of the options look too good to pass up. Additionally, Black Cat Grille specializes in creating a comfortable and friendly space that promotes the “enter as strangers, leave as friends” mentality. Its American pub fare, including scores of apps, craft sandwiches and brunch, as well as tap takeovers, live music and holiday events have locals flocking here year-round.

LOMBARDI’S TRATTORIA

Established in 2013, Lombardi’s Trattoria brings its native Italy right to Main Street, making it the most inexpensive Euro-like getaway we can think of. Try an array of Italian specialties in the dining room or enjoy a drink and its new piattini (small plates) menu in the restaurant’s newly redesigned bar space.

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MILESTONE

Milestone is the newest restaurant to open in Georgetown, but from the looks of it, it has already become a local staple. Owner Peter Fine is reintroducing recipes from his mother, who owned the former Soups On in Westport. Its niche is the brick-oven they use to cook everything from pizza to even dessert. Try a classic cheese pizza or the Popeye topped with pancetta, garlic and, of course, spinach. Bring the little ones—they’ll love it too.

RANCHO ALEGRE

Rancho Alegre is no newcomer on the food scene. It’s been serving authentic and delicious Mexican food for twenty years running. If it’s your first visit, start things off right with guacamole or sloppy nachos followed by an entree of sizzling fajitas or a variation of dinner combos. Round out the experience with a refreshing Mexican beer or margarita.

UNCLE LEO’S NOT JUST COFFEE AND DONUTS

Next time you’re in Georgetown, pop into Uncle Leo’s Not Just Coffee and Donuts for coffee and donuts— and more. Locals stop by for the breakfast sandwiches, served on fresh bread as well as the fruit turnovers and deli sandwiches. Show your town spirit by trying “The Georgetowner,” with pastrami, melted Swiss and Russian dressing on grilled rye.

WIRE MILL SALOON & BARBECUE

Owner Gino Marsili, a Georgetown native, found his “Georgia peach,” Robin, while operating a fine Italian restaurant down South. The two decided to bring Robin’s Southern cookbook and smoker to Connecticut. Named after the Gilbert & Bennett Manufacturing Co., Wire Mill BBQ house-smokes a variety of meats, from pork to brisket to sausage. When asked about the recent food buzz around town, Gino said, “Georgetown offers unique cuisine with a hometown feel. Not sure what’s better than that!” —Joey Macari

NOT SURE WHERE TO START? WE’VE DRAWN IT OUT FOR YOU. HEAD UP OR DOWN MAIN STREET!

REDDING BEER CO.

7 Main St., Redding, 203-587-9000; reddingbeer. com WASHINGTON PRIME 19 Main St., Redding, 203-587-1488, washingtonprimect.com UNCLE LEO’S NOT JUST COFFEE AND DONUTS 19 Main St., Redding, 203-587-1050; facebook.com/ uncleleos WIRE MILL SALOON & BARBECUE 12 Old Mill Rd., Redding, 203-5449988; wire millbbq .com

BLACK CAT GRILL 58 Redding Rd., Redding, 203-587-1276; blackcatct.com MILESTONE 2 Main St., Redding, 203-587-1700; milestonect.com

LOMBARDI’S TRATTORIA 22A Main St., Redding, 203-544-9447; lombardi trattoria.com.

RANCHO ALEGRE 6 Main St., Georgetown, 203-544-9464; ranchoalegrect .com

THE FULL SCOOP

We couldn’t talk about Georgetown without mentioning Heibeck’s Stand off Danbury Road. Since 1931, Heibeck’s has been grilling up all-American burgers, hot dogs and other classic staples in its cozy stand, with redwood log siding. Another selling point is its homemade ice cream, with unique flavors that have delighted families and out-of-towners for eigthy-seven years. heibecksstand.com

PHOTOGRAPH BY GAVIN BINZER

Food Stop

GUIDE TO GEORGETOWN

SAVE THE DATE 5TH ANNUAL

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OPENING NIGHT PARTY @

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WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 27 6-9 P.M.

GREENWICH RESTAURANT WEEK Runs March 1- 8, 2019

To be a participating restaurant or for sponsorship opportunities please contact Trish Kirsch 203.571.1644 • trish.kirsch@moﬄy.com

Fınance Fıx ANNUITIES

s you’re building your wealth, it helps to be a soothsayer. Do you foresee an anchor in your portfolio guaranteeing you a stream of income in your retirement years? Something like Social Security or a pension? As these two become less reliable, another financial product, LILI VASILEFF one that has been around since the Roman Empire, might be more viable: the annuity. This contract between you and an insurance company provides you with income for the rest of your life. In theory, anyway. Lili Vasileff doesn’t sell annuities. President of Wealth Protection Management in Greenwich and a fee-only certified planner, an independent registered investment adviser and the author of the new book Money & Divorce: The Essential Roadmap to Mastering Financial Decisions, she evaluates whether a particular annuity is right for a particular client’s goals. Often, an annuity pitch comes from a salesperson armed with a spiel, a promise and terrifying graphs and pie charts demonstrating that you’ll run out of money just when you need it most. You sign on the dotted line and buy something you don’t really understand, while the salesperson banks a fat commission. “It helps to not only do your homework, but to have an adviser who does the analysis, benefit to benefit, line

KNOW BEFORE YOU BUY • The credit quality of the provider • Long-term benefit (adjusted for inflation) • Survivor benefit or a death benefit • Fixed or variable annuity • Fees, including borrowing or withdrawing

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If you’re intrigued by annuities, ask questions first

by line, to make sense of it,” Vasileff says. That person can help you whittle down the choices to three or four, so you can better decide what’s best for you. “I have this gasp reaction when people go shopping on the internet for a low-cost annuity. Buyer beware! Look up who the provider is. Understand their credit worthiness. Are they in it for the long term? You want to be sure the provider has been around and will be around,” Vasileff says. Insurers selling annuities are rated by industry watchdogs Moody’s, Standard & Poor’s, A.M. Best, and the like. Ask the annuity’s salesperson or your financial adviser for the company’s Comdex rating or track it down online. Which annuity is right for you? Annuity features can seem mind-boggling. “Look for the goal of the product,” she says. “Compare like to like and different to different. Annuities have come a long way; you can make any mix and match you want. It’s like ice cream.” Annuities can be structured by time, when payments start, how long payments will last and whether they’ll continue if one spouse dies. They are usually fixed—which means they’ll pay a specified amount on a regular basis, or variable— which means that the insurance company will invest your money (you can select the investments) and if those investments do well, you will receive higher payments. On the other hand, payments shrink if investments fare poorly. In many cases, you can buy riders to customize benefits and protections. Fixed, variable, immediate and deferred annuities all have sub-accounts with different fees, goals and investment options. Consider an annuity a type of forced savings packaged in a nice wrapper to protect yourself from your own instincts, says Vasileff. “It costs you more than if you invested on your own. But then again, you’re not at the mercy of your own foolishness.” W

NEED TO KNOW WHY BUY 1 You’ve maxed out retirement vehicles and want another taxdeferred way to invest. 2 You have a lump sum to set aside so you’ll have cash flow for life. 3 With an annuity, the insurance company absorbs the invest-loss risk.

WHY NIX 1 With many annuities, you lock up your savings. 2 Annuity costs tend to be high and hidden. 3 You don’t think you’ll outlive your money. 4 If interest rates rise and you’ve locked in an annuity rate, you might miss out. 5 You haven’t addressed shortand long-term financial planning.

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The Long Run

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PEOPLE

by joey macari

& Places

MOFFLY MEDIA’S BEST OF THE GOLD COAST • PHOTOGRAPHS BY KRISTIN BURKE HYNES

5 7

And the Winner Is... 2

offly Media celebrated the best in its fourteenth annual Best of the Gold Coast Connecticut party at the Stamford Hilton Ballroom. A night to honor Fairfield County’s best in restaurants, bars, shops, salons, fitness studios, entertainment and more drew an exciting crowd of several hundred guests. A portion of the event ticket proceeds benefit Kids in Crisis, a nonprofit that aims to help underprivileged children and their families in Fairfield County. Local bands and Best Of winners Short Bus and Tangled Vine played while guests mingled, tasted samples from sponsored tables and congratulated all the winners from the readers’ poll. After all the votes were tallied, and the winners revealed in the company’s publications, the party was a fun way to celebrate the Best of the Gold Coast CT together. »

1 Alexia Liatsos, Lily Piskic, Kathy Paulus, Jonathan Moffly, Josephine Furlin, Eric C. Levy, Gabriella Mays 2 Moffly Media’s Karen Kelly, Brian Feidt, Trish Kirsch 3 Floral centerpiece 4 Melani Lust and Ashley Douglass 5 Dr. Philip Putter, Kaeley Blum (holding Brady the dog), Sue Stewart, Becky Putter and Erica Logotte from Spot On Veterinary Hospital & Hotel 6 Salmon hors d’oeuvre 7 Tuna poke bite from Flipside Burgers & Bar 8 Elizabeth Mangan and Jennifer Dimmock 9 New Country Porsche of Greenwich Porsche on display 10 Sarah Joyner and Sky Mercede

( for more party pics visit westportmag.com )

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018 WESTPORT

THE 32ND ANNUAL

HOLIDAY HOUSE TOUR SUNDAY DECEMBER 9 11-4PM FOR MORE INFORMATION & TICKETS VISIT WESTPORTHISTORY.ORG OR CALL 203 222-1424

The Center

for Sexual Assault Crisis Counseling & Education invites you to our annual

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The Westy Experience… “Highly recommend. The staff is very attentive and makes it easy to determine exactly what size unit you need. They were helpful with the moving in and moving out process. Moving can be an incredibly stressful experience, but with Westy helping you out it’s a lot less so!” — KB, Wilton

COCKTAILS FOR A CAUSE Test your decorating skills while enjoying cocktails and light fare with your friends, all in support of a great cause! Gingerbread house, apron and base decorating supplies are included. Prizes awarded!

NOVEMBER 29TH, 2018 ROLLING HILLS COUNTRY CLUB, WILTON

DECEMBER 4TH, 2018 COUNTRY CLUB OF DARIEN

Visit our website for tickets and sponsorship information: THECENTER-CT.ORG $150 PER PERSON OR $1050 FOR A TABLE OF 8

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PEOPLE &Places

HOME for the HOLIDAYS 6 C A L V I N RO A D | W E S TO N | $1 .3 5 0 M

1 Event hosts Brian and Krisztina Rivel with their daughter Lea, and Ethan and Sabra Rivel 2 Lorie Almon, Jumpstart National and Local Board Member 3 Westporter Jannette Holmes bidding on items during the live auction 4 Courtney and Nicholas Stieber of Wilton dance to local band Cinderella Saturday

| | J U M P S TA R T | |

It’s a Good Start

CONTRIBUTED

umpstart celebrated its fifth anniversary Evening with Jumpstart event at the Westport Inn. The fundraising event drew 125 guests from across Fairfield County to raise money for underserved communities across the state. Garelick & Herbs prepared the evening’s dinner reception, while attendees enjoyed a silent and live auction, plus a live band and open bar. Westport residents and tri-state local advisory board member Brian Rivel and his wife, Krisztina, served as this year’s hosts. The $40,000 raised will directly benefit literacy programs, college training and language courses for children across Connecticut. »

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COMPANY

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your realtor.

MICHELLEANDCOMPANY.COM | WILLIAM RAVEIS REAL ESTATE | 203.454.HOME (4663)

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018 WESTPORT

PEOPLE &Places

CELEBRATE YOUR WEDDING

We welcome wedding announcements together with candid photographs. Weddings should have a current Westport, Weston or Wilton family connection and must be submitted within three months of the wedding day. Regretfully, we are unable to run every wedding submitted. Send Information to: Colleen.Crowley@moffly.com Westport Magazine 205 Main Street Westport, CT 06880

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4 1 Senator Richard Blumenthal with ACT of CT cofounders Katie Diamond and Bryan Perri 2 ACT of CT Artistic Advisor Stephen Schwartz with ACT of CT cofounder Daniel C. Levine 3 ACT of CT founders with Mamma Mia! cast principals 4 ACT of CT’s Mamma Mia! cast

| | ACT OF CT | |

Thank You for the Music

sellout crowd of more than 200 guests attended the ACT (A Contemporary Theatre) of Connecticut’s Opening Night Gala. The equity theatre organization recently underwent a $1.8 million renovation to its theater, and to kick off the new facility, guests were greeted with a ribbon-cutting ceremony, cocktail hour, live auction, a special performance from ACT’s cast of Mamma Mia! and a meet-and-greet with the cast directly following. Broadway legend and Academy Award–winning composer of Wicked, Godspell, Pippin, and Disney films Pocahontas and Hunchback of Notre Dame, to name a few, was in attendance, as was Senator Richard Blumenthal, First Selectman Rudy Marconi and several other well-known professionals in entertainment. The event raised $175,000, which will directly benefit the nonprofit theater and its efforts to sustain an outstanding theatrical presence in Ridgefield.

PHOTOGRAPHS BY BRUCE GLIKAS

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2013 JAVIER SÁNCHEZ MINGORANCE-STOCK.ADOBE.COM

PEOPLE &Places 2018 WINNER

5 1 View from Church Lane 2 Scott Persson, Suzy Bessett, Phil Lo Presti and Mark Bridgeman of Moving in Stereo performed in Brooks Corner 3 Kids gather around a decorative piano in the Kids & Family Zone 4 Outside diners at Kawa Ni having lunch 5 Artists reception held at Design Within Reach on Saturday evening

| | W E S T P O R T F I N E A R T S F E S T I VA L | |

PHOTOGRAPHS BY KEVIN BIDGOOD

Artful Weekend

estport celebrated its forty-fifth Annual Fine Arts Festival, marking more than four decades of artistry, community and nostalgia. All along Main and neighboring streets, families strolled among fine art displays, shopping tents, food vendors and arts- and-craft opportunities for the little ones, including a “Paint a Piano” zone donated by the Suzuki Music School of Westport. The event coincided with the Westport Library’s annual summer book sale, which was held on Jesup Green. Along with these festivities, the artist award’s reception was held at Design Within Reach, where guests enjoyed cocktails and celebrated the weekend’s winners. W

Southport | Quogue | apdarchitects.com

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018 WESTPORT

party Letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s have a

by diane sembrot photography by kyle norton

A circle of Westport friends masters the art of stress-free, good-time get-togethers

Stations, Everyone! Tree swing for Loewe Epstein and Sylvie Goldberg • Anne Epstein, Jamie Lissette and Jason Epstein on food prep • Hugo and Jax enjoy ice time with their dad, Lewis Liebert (opposite) Host Emily Liebert

samples s’mores with Heather Bauer, Simona Levin and Abigale Levinson

All in the Family Jax, Emily, Lewis and Hugo Liebert warm up by the bonfire

Q&A with Host Emily Liebert

HOW LONG HAVE YOU ALL KNOWN ONE ANOTHER?

“On average, five-plus years.”

HOW OFTEN DO YOU GET TOGETHER?

“Often! There are parties throughout the year, typically with fun themes—Studio 54, Roaring ’20s, ’90s Rock Star, Après Ski, and, of course, Halloween. During the summer months, there’s something going on practically every weekend. We end the season with a regatta and an afterparty.”

WHEN YOU WERE HOUSE-HUNTING AND SAW THE LAKE, DID YOU IMAGINE SKATING PARTIES OR WAS THAT JUST A HAPPY DEVELOPMENT?

n one of the rare winter days when snow did not fall for at least a few hours, party hosts Emily and Lewis Liebert pulled out the grill, tested the ice on the lake and sent word that the afternoon’s festivities were a go. This gathering of friends and neighbors is a slice of Westport’s best-kept promises: enjoy time with good, interesting, talented and fun-loving people. Now regulars at this, it doesn’t take much to get this group together. From big milestones, like a significant birthday, to the smallest sliver of an excuse, such as, “Hey, it’s wintertime,” the families celebrate life’s sweetest moments together. They’ve even mastered the arrangements and their roles like a hit show on Broadway. Everyone jumps in and does their part, and together they make memories and nurture friendships that sustain them through life’s ups and downs. Here, we asked Emily about this wonderful social circle. 64

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“The minute Lewis saw the lake, his eyes lit up. Through the years he’s played hockey, worked in the industry and has been a loyal New York Rangers fan. His mind went immediately to ice skating. The idea for a skating party evolved later.”

WHAT WAS IT LIKE TO MOVE TO WESTPORT?

“Lewis and I both grew up in New York City and later moved to Westchester. We lived there together for ten years before relocating to Westport. The move was life-changing for us. Everything improved—from a home that we fell in love with, to

Sweet Moments (above) Presley Levin, unofficial s’mores tester • Friends and neighbors: Anne Epstein, Jen Goldberg, Emily Liebert, Heather Bauer, Simona Levin, Abigale Levinson, Jordana Gringer and Jenn Falik • Hugo Liebert sneaks a marshmallow (left) Party expert Adam Goldberg knows just when to add acoustic entertainment by the bonfire • With the lake frozen, players take up a game of ice hockey

Making Memories (above) Freshly made grilled cheese and tomato soup by Jason Epstein • Fashionistasin-training Evi and Gigi Gringer cuddle up on an oversized pillow and warm blanket • Gear station (right) Friends Jason Epstein, Jamie Lissette, Stephane Gringer, Lewis Liebert, David Levinson and Adam Goldberg “supervise” food responsibilities • Loewe Epstein takes a break with the Lieberts

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018 WESTPORT

Good Friends Gather for a Good Time

The RSVP List

NAME

The Lieberts

The Epsteins

The Faliks

Sweets & Sips A portion of the irresistible candy bar with a collection of favorite treats and hot cocoa fixings provided courtesy of Rye Ridge Deli in Westport

The Levins

The Gringers

a fantastic school system for our children, to a town so rich with community, and, of course, to all of the amazing friends who embraced us and became family.” WHO DID YOU MEET FIRST?

“I met Anne Epstein, Jen Goldberg and Heather Bauer all around the same time. Jen is an amazing photographer and, not long after I moved here, she was referred to me for an author photo for my next novel. Anne was a mom in my son Hugo’s pre-K class and our boys brought us together. And Heather was introduced to me by a mutual friend. The nice thing is that I became friends with each one of

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them independently without knowing that the three of them were already very close.” WHAT’S THE TRICK TO MAKING NEW FRIENDS?

“I’m a talker. I’ll start up a conversation with anyone—except on airplanes. Perhaps it’s the writer in me, but I like meeting people from different backgrounds and with varying interests. I thrive on details! Also, I know this sounds trite, but I truly believe that when you’re authentic, people are drawn to you. What you see is what you get with me.”

DO YOUR FRIENDS SHOW UP IN YOUR NOVELS?

“With each novel I’ve

written, I have friends who ask if they’re a specific character in the book. The answer is no. And yes. I've never based an entire character on a friend, but there are certainly aspects of personalities and relationships that are true to the world I live in and the people I surround myself with.”

The Bauers

The Goldbergs

WHAT’S THE BEST THING ABOUT YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD?

“We live on a large cul-desac, which means our kids can walk or ride their scooters over to a friend’s house. We love that there are plenty of kids at our bus stop in the morning and also to trick or treat with, or to just come over for pizza on a Sunday night.”

PUBLIC PERSONA

SECRET PARTY SUPERPOWER

Emily: Author

Taste tester

Lewis: President and CEO, Performance Flight

Hockey director

Anne: Fashion Designer, Beau Soleil

Ensuring everyone is taken care of

Jason: Technology, operations guru

Over-the-top food

Jenn: Lifestyle blogger and TV contributor Brian: Finance and energy Simona: Interior designer, Winding Lane Design David: Digital entrepreneur

Co-last ones standing

Perfect party favors Videographer

Jordana: Household CEO Stephane: Digital marketing mastermind

Co-mixologists

Heather: RD, founder of The Food Fix

Conversation and crudités

Ross: Director of Business Development at Cohn Reznick

S’mores master

Jen: Photographer, Jen Goldberg Photography

Spreading joy

Adam: Home entertainment consultant to private clients

Suburban DJ

Hannah: Finance The Lissettes

The Levinsons

Jamie: Owner of the financial media company Hammerstone Markets

Bringing sunshine and laughter

Abigale: Editor of digital content Mitchells stores

Style director

David: Ophthalmologist

Doctor on duty

On the Menu The outdoor kitchen turns out crowdpleasing dishes all day long. Here, neighborhoodfamous smoked pulled pork tacos with pickled red onions, avocado and cilantro prepared by the party’s head chef Jason Epstein

5 Easy Steps to a Successful

Party

Master the Grill

“Take time to make some sauces and condiments—such as pickled shallots, salsa verde, green tomato relish, etc.—for your grilled proteins. Great condiments take grilling to the next level.” —Jason Epstein

Set the Scene

“Rather than a traditional red-and-plaid themed party, set a winter whites scene using white sheepskin throws and chunky knit blankets. Serve fondue over the fire and, of course, roast marshmallows!” —Simona Levin

Make a Fashion Statement

“Splurge on a forever, favorite pair of boots. I purchased my Chanel combat boots when I was twenty-seven, and I continue to get complimented on them.” —Anne Epstein

Keep Things Friendly

“Be prepared with at least one or two interesting tidbits about each of your guests, in order to spark lively conversations within the group.” —Jordana Gringer

Include the Kids

“Design a hot chocolate bar specifically for the kids. This gives them the freedom to pick and choose their own beverage and toppings and makes them feel like an important part of the event.” —Adam Goldberg W

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018 WESTPORT

HEROES AMONG US p olly perkins johnson

peter malkin

jeff scanl an

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karen keegan

gary macnamara

lynn villency c ohen

They shed light where there is darkness, offer hope where there is need. meet our 2018 light a fire honorees by jill johnson | phot o gr aphs by mel ani lust hair and makeup by noble sal on: c o c o jiang, erica paronich, gina vasc o-c owher, maria williams

gary mendell

jessica sager

diana degnan

martha stone

t’s that time of year again— a time when we stoke the flames in our fireplaces to warm our bones and honor those who give back to warm our hearts. There will be no toastier place in November than Moffly Media’s Light a Fire awards, to be held on Thursday, November 29, at the King School (lightafireawards. com for tickets). Read these interviews with the honorees and you’ll understand why. From a father who lost his son and has since saved countless families from the same pain to a teen determined to get 100,000 meals into the mouths of the hungry around the globe, our honorees believe one person can change the world. And they are changing it— for the better—every day. New this year is our partnership with the Fairfield County’s Community Foundation, an organization that promotes philanthropy as a means to create lasting change by advising donors, providing training and resources for area nonprofits, and unifying communities through targeted initiatives and programs. Every year a portion of our proceeds from the event has gone to support FCCF’s mission. This year we invited FCCF to highlight two organizations that are closing the opportunity gap for the underserved of Fairfield County. The honorees, All Our Kin and the Center for Children’s Advocacy, will each receive a $2,500 grant from FCCF. Our other honorees were chosen by our readers who noticed and nominated the most admirable among us. Your thoughtful letters are fuel for the best kind of fire there is. »

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Peter Malkin

organizations: Greenwich Green & Clean, Greenwich Adopt-a-Road and Greenwich Tree Conservancy (founder of all three); Merritt Parkway Conservancy, Greenwich Historical Society, Lincoln Center Emeritus Council (cochairman), National Trust of Historical Preservation (trustee emeritus), Harvard Board of Overseers, Harvard Kennedy School Dean’s Council (chairman emeritus), among numerous others

LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT Inspiration “My inspiration is my wife, Isabel,” says Malkin. “She has carried on the tradition in her family of community involvement and urged me to as well. She has the

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ideas and it’s my job to carry them out.” He adds, “I believe in the Athenian Oath. The citizens took an oath to leave the city better than they found it, and I feel that is everyone’s responsibility.”

Courage into Action “Our family feels very fortunate to live in this extraordinary community,” says Malkin, who has called Greenwich home since 1966. “We think it’s important

that residents undertake programs for the benefit of the community and not simply rely upon the government. I’m a strong believer in public-private partnerships, where individuals provide ideas and initiate programs that support what the government may not be able or choose to do.” The list of all that Malkin has done is too long to include here, but he humbly mentioned several highlights. “I’m really proud of preserving and enhancing our landmark former downtown post office. I led the purchase and the restoration and enhancement of the building by Restoration Hardware as a tenant,” he says. “The other is chairing the capital campaign for the Greenwich Historical Society, which opened its new structure on October 6.” “Peter Malkin is a visionary who rolls up his sleeves and reaches new heights,” comments JoAnn Messina, executive director of Greenwich Tree Conservancy. “He has routinely seen opportunities in town that need attention and has created a solution, the Greenwich Tree Conservancy being one. He saw the dying and degradation of trees and with a handful of like-minded individuals began the GTC, which is thriving under his leadership a decade later.”

Hopes & Dreams “The crucial thing is that these activities continue,” says Malkin. “I think that one of my responsibilities is to help select and support the staff of each organization, the people who carry the programs forward. My hope is that Greenwich will continue to preserve and improve the things that make it special.”

Polly Perkins Johnson organization: Future Five

BEST FRIEND TO CHILDREN Inspiration “Cliff McFeely decided to launch a new nonprofit in 2009 and someone suggested he call Eads Johnson,” recounts Polly Perkins Johnson, a New Canaan resident. “My sweet, adorable husband told him, ‘You don’t want me. You want my wife!’ I knew when I met Cliff that it was time to take all the amazing lessons I learned from my career launching and turning around magazines and help him realize his dream of Future Five, which stands for the five most important people to help you find a path to an appropriate college and an ideal future career. We believe that the difference between the poor and the rich is not just money; it’s also the connections that more affluent individuals have. If you believe you can change your life— whether you have a 1.7 or 3.7 GPA—we will work with you.”

Courage into Action “For the first few years, keeping the door open is a major achievement,” says Polly. “You’re going month to month, donor to donor, student to student— doing anything you can with the little money you have.” She was instrumental in creating the board of directors in 2013. “Pulling that together is something I’m very proud of,” she says. During the past year, she has helped Future Five based in Stamford secure space in an adjoining building,

adding 2,100 square feet to their existing 1,400. The organization has grown from one workshop and fifteen students to sixty mentors/ coaches, 150 students including forty-eight graduating seniors going to college, and an annual budget of $800,000. “Polly is way beyond chairman of the board; she is my business partner, and we would not be anywhere near where we are today if her energy had not been part of the propulsion,” says McFeely.

Hopes & Dreams “We have hired a new executive director, and our hope is to create a sustainable organization in Stamford that’s here for the next ten to fifty years,” explains Polly. “We are so happy with our model of networking and taking a holistic approach to working with kids. We help with parent issues, personal issues, getting a driver’s license, getting into college, and then from college to job-hunting.” Polly is comfortable that now is the time to pass the chairman baton. “Cliff and I—we are like the entrepreneurial grandparents,” she says. “Our hope is to pass on the infrastructure and have hundreds of kids go through this new beautiful space. One thing I swore when I came on was that we would create an organization that will live on successfully beyond the founders and be a major part of the Stamford community for many years.” »

Karen Keegan organization: Greenwich United Way (GUW)

OUTSTANDING LEADER Inspiration “My early inspiration came from my parents,” says Karen. “They were always involved in community service.” Karen followed suit, and while at UCLA for a master’s in business, finance, and marketing, she earned an Outstanding Community Service Award. While living in London, she joined the Junior League. In 1993, the family moved to Greenwich. The Great Recession hit and took a toll. “The financial need in the town was going up while private funding of services was going down,” says Karen, who joined the board of the Greenwich United Way. “Across the country most United Ways were experiencing declines in fundraising. If the United Way in Greenwich could figure out what to do, we would be a beacon to other communities. That was exciting to me.”

Courage into Action “In 2015 we restructured the organization. We changed every aspect of our business in order to meet increasing needs, give donors quantifiable results and meet the needs of our partners.” When the CEO resigned in 2015, Karen helped lead the organization for almost a year. “That year the board led the organization as a team. We worked hand in hand with staff and shoulder to shoulder with other town agencies. The whole

community got behind the effort.” Fellow board member Brook Urban comments: “Leaders inspire, motivate, create, manage, listen, guide, take risks, build teams and move an organization forward. As a GUW board member since January 2010 and the chair of the board from January 2015 to January 2018, Karen did all of these things in an outstanding manner, all the time.” GUW CEO David Rabin states: “Without Karen’s approach to the challenges that faced the GUW when she became board chair, we would not be anywhere near as well positioned to address the health, education and selfsufficiency needs facing our most vulnerable population. Karen has allowed the GUW to continue its mission for another eighty-five years and beyond.”

Hopes & Dreams Karen serves on numerous committees at GUW and beyond. “Given the funding landscape in our state, and in Fairfield County in particular, budget constraints on nonprofits are on the rise” she says. “More and more people will be unable to afford basic needs, so we need individuals to come forward with personal support, whether through hands-on help, sharing expertise or lending financial support. We all have something to give. We must get behind the needs of our neighbors. It’s the only way forward.”

Phone calls flooded in from people Brian had helped: staying up all night to give a depressed patient hope; whispering “It’s going to be OK” in the ear of a new arrival.

Courage into Action

Gary Mendell organization: Shatterproof

MOST DEDICATED HEALTH ADVOCATE Inspiration “It was a situation that happens too often,” says Easton resident Gary Mendell. “My son Brian went into the woods with friends to try beer or pot, as kids do. If ten kids try it, one will get addicted.” Heavier drugs followed. “Brian had a little anxiety. Did that first beer soothe

his anxiety? Maybe. By his junior year, it became a problem.” The school psychologist recommended a wilderness program, which went well but the ensuing therapeutic high school did not. “It led to eight different programs,” says Mendell. “We didn’t realize their treatments were not based on current science.

In his seventh program, Brian was put on medication. He never used substances again. The final program advised he go off it. On October 20, 2011, Brian wrote a suicide note, lit a candle and took his life,” recounts Mendell. He was 25. “Four months before that he told me, ‘I wish that someday people would realize I’m not a bad person; I’m a good person with a bad disease, and I’m trying my hardest,’” says Mendell. He felt frustrated by the programs’ inconsistencies, misunderstood and ashamed.

“I was inspired by Brian to help others” explains Mendell. “I learned we had all this research in medical journals, not being used. For every major disease, we have a well-funded national organization. But nothing for addiction. I remember thinking how this information could start saving lives.” He founded Shatterproof five months after Brian died. “Gary is unyielding in his goal to change the way our country thinks about and treats addiction,” says Holly Jesperson, Shatterproof ’s senior communications manager. The nonprofit has passed lifesaving legislation in fifteen states, established a community alliance program with over 1,300 ambassadors, advocated for safer opioid prescribing practices, hosted the largest event series for addiction ever with the Shatterproof Challenge Rappel and created a national standard of care for addiction, among numerous other accomplishments. The most impactful moments for Mendell have been hugs from people whose family members have been saved by Shatterproof.

Hopes & Dreams Shatterproof is poised to transform unregulated, outdated rehabs into regulated treatment programs. “We are close to finalizing $6 million in funding to build a rating system for every treatment program in the country,” he says. »

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Diana Degnan organization: Feed My Starving Children

OUTSTANDING TEEN VOLUNTEER Inspiration “I had gone to [food] packing events since I was a little girl and fell in love with them,” says Diana, a Darien resident who attends the King School in Stamford. At the events volunteers pack the organization’s MannaPack rice

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meals, which are then shipped to remote areas in the world. “You were helping kids in a way you could really see and feel. I would be there for two hours, but it felt like fifteen minutes. The events were organized through local churches and the public high

the go-ahead to launch her own MobilePack event, which would require raising $22,000. “I went to big corporations and asked how to best approach the fundraising aspect,” says Diana. “I did a big email campaign to everyone I had in my contacts and raised about $9,000.” She then planned three field hockey clinics, which her coach from King volunteered to run. She raised another $5,000. “I have $8,000 more to go before the event, which will be in March. I’m doing a ‘King Talk,’ an assembly where I’ll talk about what I’m working on.” Diana finds public speaking a little daunting, but she’s not deterred: “I’ve been working so hard and am so excited, so I want to share it.” Kathleen O’Rourke, director of marketing and communications at King, comments: “All sixththrough twelfth-grade students at King will pack over 100,000 meals to be sent to children in need throughout the world. Diana is so excited for the event because it will allow kids in our community to make a real difference in the lives of thousands of hungry children throughout the world.” school in Darien. I wanted to bring it to King, as I thought a lot of my friends and community would love it too.”

Courage into Action “I contacted the organization and found out how to have an event, how many meals we would need, how much it would cost—all the details,” explains Diana. “I made a PowerPoint presentation and presented it to the administration at school.” She was persuasive with both her school and Feed My Starving Children and got

Hopes & Dreams “I really hope that people fall in love with the event and that others are inspired to do something like this in the future, with a charity they are passionate about,” says Diana. “I hope they will see that you can make an impact when you are a kid and that community service can be really fun!” Want to help Diana reach her goal? Contribute at give.fmsc.org/ kingschool

Jeff Scanlan organization: Homes with Hope

OUTSTANDING COMMITTEE MEMBER Inspiration “I joined the board of Homes with Hope in 2006,” says Easton resident Jeff Scanlan. “I’d just retired from Wall Street and I had time. The idea that there were homeless in Westport was a bit of a shock to me.” In 2007 Scanlan was named chairman of the newly formed fundraising committee. “Homes with Hope started in 1984, as an emergency shelter for men, where food was served,” explains Scanlan. “We wanted to create an event to jack up our fundraising so we could offer more.”

Courage into Action “There’s nothing funny about homelessness, but we thought we could attract an audience with comedy,” says Scanlan. “Stand Up for Homes with Hope is a play on comedy and on what we want people to do. It’s not only entertainment. We tell the audience about Homes with Hope, which now offers forty-one units of permanent housing and shelters at the Gillespie Center and Project Return in Westport. In 2008, we sheltered fifty-two people a night; now we’re at 115. Some of our clients get up in front of this rapt audience and share how they became homeless and how Homes with Hope got them back on their feet. It takes a lot of courage on their part, and listening you realize you may not be so far away from

being homeless. Life can unravel quickly.” The first year the committee underwrote the appearance of Lewis Black to a sold-out crowd at the Quick Center. “The evening was a remarkable success,” says Jeff Weiser, president of Homes with Hope. “Since 2008, this iconic event has entertained over 6,500 people and has netted our agency nearly $2 million. Jeff has spearheaded every committee meeting, and subsequent versions of this critical annual appeal have welcomed the likes of Martin Short, Paula Poundstone, Wayne Brady and Darrell Hammond.” Scanlan says, “This community is amazing. We always have a full house at the event, and serving dinner at the Gillespie Center is the hottest ticket around. We hardly ever have any openings— that’s 30,000 meals a year.” Scanlan also emphasizes the importance of the permanent supportive housing Homes with Hope offers. “This is for people with diagnosed mental illness who are chronically homeless. Without it, they’d be homeless again,” he explains. “We all know people with family members with these problems, but the people we are housing are without that family support.”

Hopes & Dreams “Some people are under the impression that we’ve solved

homelessness around here,” says Scanlan. “I don’t think we ever will, but we have come a long way in alleviating it. My hope is that this community, and Fairfield County in general, continues to support the homeless in the way they have. The work of Homes with Hope is so vital because for the homeless, hope starts with a roof over your head.” »

$30,000.” Every year MacNamara struts for one mile down the Post Road in a towering pair of red high heels to draw attention to the role men can play in breaking the cycles of violence against women. “Chief MacNamara’s leadership has helped galvanize the community around this issue in an engaging, high-profile way,” says Deb. MacNamara has also been involved with Fairfield Cares for many years. “For the last two years, I have cochaired a coalition to try to reduce substance abuse among residents, particularly youth in the community.” He is particularly proud of their Life Not Wasted campaign. “The goal of the coalition is to not only serve the young adults, but also bring them into the coalition, so they are the ones getting the message out,” explains MacNamara. “It’s twofold: #lifenotwasted meaning my life is not going to be wasted using substances, and a positive spin— like ‘I just climbed a mountain’ or ‘I just ran a marathon’ #lifenotwasted.”

Hopes & Dreams

Gary MacNamara organizations: Center for Family Justice, Fairfield Cares Community Coalition, CT Police Chief Association

BEST FRIEND TO WOMEN Inspiration “The people at the Center for Family Justice (CFJ) really inspired me,” says Fairfield Police Chief Gary MacNamara. “In law enforcement, our paths cross with a lot of outside agencies. Our response is often limited, so

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agencies like CFJ help us to help victims. Around the country, there are a variety of Walk a Mile events [men’s marches to stop rape, sexual assault and gender violence]. Deb Greenwood [CFJ’s president] and I were having coffee, talking about

how to bring awareness to victims of domestic abuse and sexual assault. We decided we should do a Walk a Mile event in Fairfield. We all can be victims of crime, but to be victims on such a personal level, we wanted to raise awareness of how impactful that is.”

Courage into Action CFJ’s Walk a Mile in Her Shoes is now in its sixth year. “The first year we probably had 200 walkers,” says MacNamara. “Last April we had 1,300 and raised close to

“My hope is that people realize the impact they can have, within arms reach,” says MacNamara. “Often we look at global problems and forget about local solutions. Domestic violence and sexual assault are global issues, but there are people in your community doing something about it.” He has been doing just that for his thirtyyear career as a police officer. He recently announced his retirement and looks forward to his new role as executive director of Public Safety and Governmental Affairs at Sacred Heart University.

Lynn Villency Cohen organization: Stamford Museum & Nature Center

MOST DEDICATED SUPPORTER OF THE ARTS Inspiration “My family was the catalyst for my dedication to the arts,” says Lynn Villency Cohen. “My mother dabbled in music, languages, opera and great literature. My father worked as a news reporter, PR executive and writer. And my uncle was an artist and noted furniture designer. In travels to Europe with my parents, I would take notes as an eleven-year-old about ceiling frescoes and paintings.” Lynn earned two master’s in art history (from Boston University and Oxford) and worked in D.C. for the Commissioner’s Art Advisory Panel.

Courage into Action When Lynn moved to Stamford over twenty years ago, she immediately became involved with the Stamford Museum & Nature Center (SM&NC). “I have worked on a wide array of projects,” she says, “most notably chairing the collections committee to ensure the care and thoughtful display of the art and natural history collection throughout the Bendel mansion, as well as maintaining a robust exhibition line-up of educational, fun shows.” Kirsten Reinhardt, former Curator of collections and Exhibitions, comments, “Lynn’s knowledge of art history, her keen eye for contemporary art talent

and her conscientious insistence on fiscal responsibility ensured that the exhibitions schedule was robust, interesting and complementary to the mission of the SM&NC. She was hands-on and involved while respectful of the professional responsibilities of the staff—a true team player who made time to jury art shows, solicit donations and support exhibition openings.” Lynn is involved in plans for the new Farm House, which will bring cooking and art classes, speaker events, environmental offerings and more exhibitions to the SM&NC campus. “It’s without a doubt a most exciting time in the eighty-two year history of this institution,” she says. “I’ve always felt when one enters, you come upon a magical universe,” she adds. Her husband has also been an enthusiastic supporter of SM&NC and her daughter an avid volunteer.

Hopes & Dreams “My hope is that I have dedicated myself in every way possible to advancing the growth of this institution’s journey and to ensure that it will continue to bring joy, learning, healing and excitement to the next generation of visitors,” she says. “While the arts may not be as crucial as progress and discoveries in science and medicine, museum

and art offerings bring joy, enhance learning and offer shared experiences, which can affect life for the better. Visiting a museum or historical property, or attending a theater or music performance, serves to engage, heal, enrich and enlarge our worlds, making our lives fuller, which in turn helps us understand our most complex, intricate world.” »

q&a with executive director of all our kin

Jessica Sager

FAIRFIELD COUNTY’S COMMUNITY FOUNDATION c o m m u n i t y i m p a c t aw a r d COMMUNITY IMPACT AWARD conversation. By valuing and investing in these childcare providers and these families, with the help of partners like FCCF, we are engaging the broader public in a different way. This really is what will lead to these gains being sustained and deepened over time.

What is All Our Kin’s mission?

Our mission it to train, support and sustain family childcare providers offering home care in areas desperately in need of childcare and to give our youngest children high-quality, earlylearning experiences that will allow them to succeed in school and in life.

What does the future hold? The Fairfield County Community Foundation is based on the values of diversity, equity and collaboration. How does All Our Kin’s mission fit these values?

It constantly astonishes me, the way in which we as a nation have failed to invest in and support families, particularly families with very young children. Families with barriers to accessing care really struggle, and it plays out in the opportunity gap. We foster diversity, equity and justice on so many levels: investing in caregivers, giving them the educational tools they need, enabling them to create businesses and giving them a voice in the childcare system; giving parents the support they need so they can succeed in the workplace, and giving children the early learning services they need to be successful. It is essential that all families have access to highquality, nurturing childcare. People

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assume the women offering to care for children in poor communities can’t give high-quality care. At All Our Kin, we say the opposite. These women are already leaders in their communities. What do you see as All Our Kin’s biggest accomplishments?

We are making an enormous

difference in the supply of homebased childcare for infants and toddlers. We also are having a profound impact on the quality of that care. We are impacting provider earning and quality of life, and parents are entering and remaining in the workplace. What I’m proudest of is that we’ve really changed the

We’re creating more All Our Kin networks. We are in Bridgeport and Stamford/Norwalk and have already launched a partnership in Danbury. We continue to deepen and expand our programs, as we learn more about what children need. We are also expanding our training through partner agencies. We will keep working to change the conversation around family childcare, build connections and partnerships, and incorporate these home caregivers in a deeper way into the childcare network Juanita James, president of FCCF, comments: “We are truly blessed to have All Our Kin working to support local family childcare providers caring for young children in Connecticut. There is probably no other nonprofit in the country that has done as much in this field, and All Our Kin was ‘born’ right here in our state!”

q&a with executive director of center for children’s advocacy

Martha Stone

FAIRFIELD COUNTY’S COMMUNITY FOUNDATION COMMUNITY IMPACT AWARD minor behavior problems. We also got a law passed that bans out-of-school suspensions of preschoolers through second graders, so those kids can stay in school with the right support. We’ve developed a band of pro bono attorneys to help undocumented kids who are eligible to remain in the country. Together we’ve represented over one hundred abandoned and abused undocumented kids. Ninety-five percent of the kids we represent stay in school.

What is the Center for Children’s Advocacy’s mission?

Our mission is to protect lowincome children and fight for their rights, including rights to services from the juvenile justice, education, child welfare and healthcare systems. Our legal services help kids by reducing problems that are interfering with school achievement and health. We also advocate for systemic reforms and help parents, doctors and other professionals learn about children’s rights and how to advocate for kids.

What does the future hold? Fairfield County Community Foundation is based on the values of diversity, equity and collaboration. How does CCA’s mission fit these values?

Our advocacy is based on the belief that all children should have equal opportunities to succeed. In Bridgeport we’ve brought together schools, police, the juvenile court and community organizations to reduce the number of youths of color who enter the juvenile justice system, and we’re collaborating with parents to improve education for kids learning English. We also teach about the rights of kids with disabilities to participate in afterschool programs and camps.

What do you see as CCA’s biggest accomplishments?

Our juvenile justice reforms stopped the state from locking up runaways and truants like they were criminals and made sure the kids get help with what’s causing their behavior. We’ve also changed the way the system decides what to do with kids and reduced

the number of youths sent to juvenile detention. We’ve brought restorative justice into secure juvenile facilities to teach youth how to avoid problem behavior. We led the overhaul of alternative school programs across the state and helped Bridgeport schools reduce the number of kids arrested for

We’d like to bring our mobile legal van to Stamford to serve that area. In January we’ll start training pro bono attorneys to represent youth aging out of foster care who are not ready to be independent. In Norwalk, we’re collaborating on a project that supports immigrant children as they strive for academic success and hope to roll this program out to other districts. FCCF President Juanita James says: “We salute the longstanding work of CCA. The Center’s combination of legal advocacy and community partnerships has turned around the lives of hundreds of vulnerable youth. The staff is relentless in pursuing positive outcomes for their clients.” W

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Celebrate the Holidays in High Style! Opening Night for the Greenwich Winter Antiques Show

Celebrating Honorary Design Chairs David Monn and Alex Papachristidis Friday, November 30, 7:00 to 9:00 pm Patrons Early Admission at 6:00 pm Eastern Greenwich Civic Center Generously sponsored by Betteridge

The Greenwich Winter Antiques Show

Holiday Boutique

Tuesday, December 4, 6:00 pm to 8:30 pm Wednesday, December 5, 9:00 am to 6:00 pm Greenwich Country Club

Fine Art, Jewelry and Antiques Saturday, December 1, 10:00 am to 6:00 pm Sunday, December 2, 11:00 am to 5:00 pm Eastern Greenwich Civic Center

Holiday House Tour

Produced by Frank Gaglio, Inc.

Rago Modern Design Lecture and Appraisal Day to beneﬁt the Greenwich Historical Society

Art and History Education Programs

MMXVIII

Saturday, December 1, 2018 Lecture: 12 noon Appraisals: 1 pm to 5 pm Eastern Greenwich Civic Center

Wednesday, December 5, 10:00 am to 4:00 pm Reservations required (rain or shine) Generously sponsored by David Ogilvy & Associates

Holiday House Tour Luncheon

Appraisals by appointment. Please contact Jennifer Pitman at jenny@ragoarts.com or 917.745.2730.

Wednesday, December 5, 11:30 am to 1:30 pm Greenwich Country Club Reservations required

For further information and tickets please visit us at www.greenwichhistory.org/antiquarius

Generously supported by

Exclusive House Tour Media Sponsor

Greenwich

A T M K S P O RT S & E N T E RTA I N M E N T E V E N T © 2 0 1 8

DECEMBER 1 & 2

Free Parking Sponsor

#GreenwichReindeerFestival

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2018

NEW VENUE! KING SCHOOL

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 29TH 6:30–9:30 PM JOIN US FOR Moffly Media’s 11TH Annual Light a Fire awards reception and cocktail party at KING SCHOOL - Performing Arts Center, 1450 Newfield Avenue, Stamford

OUR HOST

Photos by Melani Lust

The evening will be hosted by veteran Tony Award-Winning actor, director and longtime Weston resident, James Naughton.

FOR TICKETS GO TO lightafireawards.com HONOREES: Most Dedicated Health Advocate – Gary Mendell • Best Friend to Women – Gary MacNamara Outstanding Committee Member – Jeff Scanlan • Outstanding Teen Volunteer – Diana Degnan Best Friend to Children – Polly Perkins Johnson • Lifetime Achievement – Peter Malkin Outstanding Leader – Karen Keegan • Most Dedicated Supporter of the Arts – Lynn Villency Cohen Fairfield County’s Community Foundation Community Impact Awards – All Our Kin & The Center for Children’s Advocacy

Philanthropic Partner

Community Leader Presenting Sponsor

Event Host Sponsor

Community Impact Presenting Sponsor

Catering by

Mary Himes and Helen During

The

ART

CONVERSATION

How two women are using art to encourage civilized discussion about gun safety

by timothy dumas

•

p o r t r a i t p h oto g r a p h b y pa m e l a e i n a r s e n

Deactivated guns acquired at a gun buy-back program in Hartford partially funded by #UNLOAD. The decommissioned gun pieces were brought to Artspace, New Haven for the “knolling,” where they were arranged by a studio assistant of Tom Sachs, a contemporary artist born in Westport.

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WE AMERICANS ARE CONFRONTED WITH TWO ANTAGONISTIC REALITIES: WE HAVE THE RIGHT TO KEEP AND BEAR ARMS—GUNS BEING A CORE SYMBOL OF OUR LIBERTY—AND WE HAVE A GUN VIOLENCE PROBLEM THAT NO AMOUNT OF CHILDREN’S BLOOD WILL INDUCE THE UNITED STATES CONGRESS TO ADDRESS. SO WHAT DO WE DO? WE ARGUE. AFTER EVERY MASSACRE, DEMOCRATS PRESS FOR NEW GUN CONTROL LAWS AND REPUBLICANS COUNTER WITH ASSERTIONS OF THEIR USELESSNESS. “THE ONLY WAY TO STOP A BAD GUY WITH A GUN,” GOES ONE POPULAR GUN RIGHTS POSITION, “IS WITH A GOOD GUY WITH A GUN.” WHO IS RIGHT? WHAT WOULD REDUCE THE KILLING WHILE PRESERVING THE SECOND AMENDMENT? UNFORTUNATELY, ANSWERS HAVE BEEN IN SHORT SUPPLY SINCE 1996 WHEN REPUBLICANS IN CONGRESS, BACKED BY THE NATIONAL RIFLE ASSOCIATION, EFFECTIVELY SHUT DOWN GOVERNMENT RESEARCH INTO GUN-DEATH PREVENTION. JAY DICKEY, THE ARKANSAS REPUBLICAN WHO LED THE EFFORT, CHANGED HIS MIND AS GUN KILLINGS MOUNTED. “RESEARCH WILL LEAD TO A SOLUTION,” HE SAID IN 2015. “[GUN VIOLENCE] IS AN INSIDIOUS SOCIAL PROBLEM THAT WE HAVE IN AMERICA, AND IT’S GETTING WORSE, IN MY OPINION.” 84

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e do know that tough gun laws work in other involved,” Mary notes. “There’s a silent majority of Americans who developed countries, such as Germany, are gun owners, possibly Republican or Independent, who have felt where gun ownership is high and gun crime for a long time that they are not welcome in the conversation that the is remarkably low. After mass shootings in gun safety people are having. We need people to feel heard.” The women know there are limits to what they can do. “We’re not 2002 and 2009, horrified Germans spoke with a unified voice in favor of restrictive trying really hard to reach out to survivalists, with an arsenal in their gun laws that include a national gun registry and psychiatric testing. home,” Mary says. “So we are not getting the trolls—yet.” But unity of opinion never materialized here, not even after Sandy Hook, where in 2012 twenty children and six adults were murdered by a lone gunman armed with a semiautomatic rifle and two semiANGER INTO ACTION automatic handguns. In the aftermath of Sandy Hook, President Obama called on the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention We’re sitting in Helen’s Weston living room—a bright, airy space to resume studying gun violence, but Congress hindered that direc- decorated with abstract art—as the aroma of baking bread drifts tive by drawing the purse strings tight. (The CDC did manage to in from the kitchen. Hung on a nearby wall are Helen’s striking produce one report, but research has not continued.) In 2015 House photographs of Haiti, which she took shortly after the catastrophic Speaker John Boehner defended the lack of appropriations with the earthquake of 2010. “I’ve always been interested in art and social consciousness,” she says. Helen is the New dubious semantic argument that “a gun is Zealand-born daughter of Dutch parents not a disease.” The CDC also studies traffic AMONG THE MOST DISTURBING who founded a popular artisanal bakery deaths, and nobody complains that a car is PIECES IN THE SHOW IS ADAM based in Auckland (her father, Johan, not a disease. survived the Holocaust by hiding out in So we argue to the usual stalemate—on MYSOCK’S “THE LAST SIX, Amsterdam less than a mile from where Facebook and Twitter, in the news media, UNDER SIX, MURDERED BY Anne Frank was keeping her diary). at dinner tables, in the halls of Congress. A GUN IN THE SIXTH,” WHICH In these parts, Helen is an arts powerHow, then, do we proceed? Two Fairfield AT FIRST GLANCE SEEMS TO house, having cofounded the Connecticut County women, Mary Himes of Greenwich BE BE A SERIES OF RANDOM Arts Council and served as gallery direcand Helen Klisser During of Weston, want tor of the Silvermine Guild Arts Center in to reframe how we talk about guns. As BULLET HOLES IN THE GALLERY things stand, we talk about guns in terms New Canaan and as artistic director of the WALL. BUT WHEN YOU PEER of politics, as inevitably we must; in doing Westport Arts Center. She remains a curaCLOSE, YOU SEE THE BULLETS so, Mary says, we fall into the usual “boxing tor and an advisor to private collectors. THEMSELVES LODGED IN match,” in which people trot out their arguMary’s life has long straddled art and ments and return bruised to their corners. politics. A native of Montreal, she graduTHE SHEETROCK—WITH THE But what if we looked at guns through the ated from McGill University in Montreal TINY FACES OF CHILDREN lens of art—what if art could stimulate fresh and from Parsons School of Design in New PAINTED ON THEM. angles of approach to this most divisive York, where she studied environmental subject? In the stubbornly optimistic view design; later she worked in retail-design that it can, Mary and Helen have created #UNLOAD: Arts Trigger a and magazine publishing. She is married to Jim Himes, who has repConversation, a vigorous little foundation that puts on art exhibits, resented our corner of the state in the U.S. Congress since 2009. “My plays, dance and spoken word performances, poetry slams, and chil- family is a family of duck hunters,” she says, “so I grew up with guns dren’s art workshops, among other events. in the house. I’m not opposed to all guns in any way.” After Sandy “Our hope is that by bringing the conversation into the realm of the Hook, Mary joined the board of CT Against Gun Violence, an advoarts, we are providing a more welcoming space, less for debate than cacy group that has played a role in getting legislators to pass new gun for conversations and listening,” Mary says. “And hopefully, we can laws—laws that have expanded the list of banned assault weapons, come to consensus.” banned high-capacity ammunition magazines, and established uni“With art, it’s open to interpretation,” adds Helen. “It’s not hostile.” versal background checks. “Connecticut really has led the country in “We’ve had Republicans reach out to us and say they want to get creating sensible legislation,” Mary says.

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018 WESTPORT

opposite page: Artists of all ages who attended a workshop at Artspace, New Haven, were invited to create new artwork using parts from decommissioned firearms collected in an #UNLOAD-funded gun buyback in Hartford. The final exhibition, #UNLOAD: Pick up the Pieces will be presented at the Ely Center for Contemporary Art. top row: Natalia Maria Padilla Castellanos, Jahmane West, Margaret Rolke second row: Christian Ayala, Darcy Hicks, Dave Coon third row: Katie Heinlein, Miggs Burroughs, Kim Weston fourth row: Kobe Randolph, Christina Spiese, Raven Von Kohler

But at the federal level, the stalemate has endured. The great post- the artists are gun owners and forty percent have been impacted by Sandy Hook effort, launched by senators Joe Manchin, Democrat gun violence.” So what kind of art are we talking about? Several pieces are of West Virginia, and Pat Toomey, Republican of Pennsylvania, was a modest bill to strengthen background checks. It failed—despite a constructed with decommissioned guns. In “Epitaph,” artist Paul range of polls showing that 90 percent of Americans favor just the Villinski has taken an old shotgun and attached aluminum butterflies kind of background checks that Manchin and Toomey proposed. to it. Villinski’s artist statement that accompanies the piece makes “When there are that many Americans who feel strongly about a clear where he stands: “Guns fundamentally do one thing: destroy piece of legislation and it doesn’t pass, the legislators aren’t hearing life—take something away. Art does the opposite.” This guns-into-art them,” Mary says. “At that point, I just felt frustrated about the lack of idea echoes the Biblical ideal, set forth in Isaiah, of turning swords progress—and I felt you can’t keep doing the same thing over and over into plowshares. A piece that young viewers gravitate to, assembled by Matt Vis and and hope for a different outcome.” Connecticut seemed particularly fertile for #UNLOAD, given its Tony Campbell, is a vintage gumball machine that dispenses 9-milhistory of gun manufacture and (alas) gun massacre, not to mention limeter bullets in little plastic casings, like prizes. Jonathan Ferrara’s its love of the arts. “But I realized that I have absolutely no profes- “Excalibur No More” consists of a 12-gauge shotgun driven into a boulder, like the storybook sword. The idea sional expertise in the area of exhibits,” concerns the breaking of a cycle of vioMary says. “And I knew Helen During “WE’VE HAD REPUBLICANS REACH lence: This weapon will stay put. But before would be the perfect partner.” Even so, OUT TO US AND SAY THEY WANT Ferrara stuck the gun into the stone, he took the dynamic duo got shut out early on. it to a range in order to fully engage with Their goal was to mount an art exhibit TO GET INVOLVED,” MARY NOTES. the gun experience: “I started shooting,” with guns as the theme—following on a “THERE’S A SILENT MAJORITY he writes in a statement accompanying the now historic exhibit called Guns in the OF AMERICANS WHO ARE GUN piece, “and I must say it was a total rush.” Hands of Artists, first put up by a pair OWNERS, POSSIBLY REPUBLICAN OR Among the most disturbing pieces in the of New Orleanians, artist Brian Borrello show is Adam Mysock’s “The Last Six, Under and artist-gallery owner Jonathan INDEPENDENT, WHO HAVE FELT Six, Murdered by a Gun in the Sixth,” which Ferrara, in 1996. “We went to MoMA, FOR A LONG TIME THAT THEY at first glance seems to be a series of random we reached out to the Wadsworth, the ARE NOT WELCOME IN THE bullet holes in the gallery wall. But when Aldrich—nobody wanted to touch it,” CONVERSATION THAT THE GUN you peer close, you see the bullets themsays Helen. SAFETY PEOPLE ARE HAVING. WE selves lodged in the sheetrock—with the “Too toxic,” Mary says. “That was three or four years ago, and for whatever tiny faces of children painted on them. NEED PEOPLE TO FEEL HEARD.” reason, they weren’t ready.” Guns in the Hands of Artists was actually Not long after the Las Vegas massacre the second show that #UNLOAD sponsored. of October 1, 2017, Mary and Helen approached Peter Van Heerden, The first, a lively one-nighter in March called Up in Arms, took place executive director of the Quick Center at Fairfield University, about at artist Lee Milazzo’s capacious studio in Stamford. Lee and his wife, putting on a new iteration of Guns in the Hands of Artists. He said Cindy, owners of Samuel Owen Gallery of Greenwich and Nantucket, yes. (Though the Quick Center’s Walsh Gallery was booked solid, curated the exhibit of some twenty pieces, seeking work that would he agreed to open it for the summer, when it’s usually closed.) be open to interpretation. (Shepard Fairey’s “Gun Mandala,” for #UNLOAD: Guns in the Hands of Artists will run through October example, is a lovely patterned target—but since a mandala traditionally 13, so there’s still time to visit. “Unlike a lot of colleges these days, represents the cosmos, one might imagine that violence itself is in the Fairfield University really embraced a very difficult conversation,” crosshairs.) Still, Lee doubted whether the two hundred attendees Mary says, noting that the university held panels on gun issues in would talk constructively about guns, as Mary and Helen hoped; he conjunction with the exhibit. “As Jesuits, they see the value of rigor- foresaw instead a roomful of vocal gun-control people “and then some ous discussion.” pro-gun people, sitting quietly, sipping a cocktail, who’d then get in “It’s a very serious show,” Helen says. “But you won’t leave weep- their cars and say, ‘Man, I can’t believe all those liberals.’” ing. You’ll leave feeling you have a voice.” But the exhibit had a novel feature—a platform that allowed view“A key point about the exhibit,” Mary adds, “is that 40 percent of ers to text their responses in real time to three display monitors. » 86

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COURTESY OF THE JONATHAN FERRARA GALLERY

#UNLOAD: UPCOMING Where to continue the conversation RIGHT NOW #UNLOAD: Guns in the Hands of Artists, an exhibit at the Fairfield University Art Museum, Walsh Gallery in Fairfield, through October 13.

OCTOBER 11

GIRL WITH A GUN IMAGE COURTESY OF THE JONATHAN FERRARA GALLERY

opposite page: Generic Art Solutions’ silkscreen “One Hot Month,” from the #UNLOAD: Guns in the Hands of Artists exhibit top: #UNLOAD: Guns in the Hands of Artists exhibit at Fairfield University Art Museum, Walsh Gallery below: Artist Marcus Kenney’s “Girl with a Gun,” 2014 Archival pigment print

“I would say about 75 percent of the comments were anti-gun,” Lee says. But there were also viewers who quoted Clint Eastwood. “There was an immediate awareness of different perspectives on the same works,” Helen remarks. Lee noted that in Fairfield County people tend to be guarded about their political opinions “and never really drill down to the point. But here,” he says, “I felt we really had a conversation without getting in anybody’s face. It’s amazing how this topic speaks to people.” Helen says that audience reaction is critical to #UNLOAD’s mission, as it is to art in general. “It’s never just about a picture on the wall. It’s about audience response, participation, discovering what that image is about. Sure, it can be about the pure aesthetic. But for me, it sings once there is audience engagement.”

OUT OF THE MOUTHS OF

BABES

Until recently, young voices had gone mostly unheard. Then, on February 14, a troubled teen opened fire at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida, killing fourteen students and three staff members. The classmates of the dead spoke out, and did so with a moral force that led to actual change—stiffer gun laws in Florida and elsewhere (though nothing, again, at the federal level). #UNLOAD has taken care to include children’s voices, through art workshops conducted by artist Jahmane West and artist-visual literacy specialist Darcy Hicks. (Hicks’ brother, Tyler, is a Pulitzer Prize-winning photojournalist who has captured some of

#UNLOAD: Pick Up the Pieces, art made from or inspired by decommissioned guns, presented in partnership with Artspace. At the Ely Center of Contemporary Art, New Haven, through November 11.

OCTOBER 12 A dance performance commissioned by the Quick Center for the Arts will debut at the closing night party for #UNLOAD: Guns in the Hands of Artists at 7 p.m. in the Quick Center. For tickets, 203-254-4010 or email boxoffice@quickcenter .com. Ticket includes cocktails and dance party.

NOVEMBER 1 #UNLOAD recommends: Thousand Pines, a play by Matthew Greene, at the Westport Country Playhouse. The drama, premiering at the Playhouse, explores family grief in the wake of a school shooting. Runs through November 30.

TO BE ANNOUNCED An #UNLOAD-sponsored night of storytelling; and perhaps a night of poetry. For more information, visit unloadusa.org

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018 WESTPORT

above: Opening of #UNLOAD: Aiming Higher, a teen art exhibit at the Blends Gallery in Bridgeport: Congressman Jim Himes, Mary and Helen, Darcy Hicks, #UNLOAD’s director of education programs and #UNLOAD artist and partner, Jahmane West • Semi-automatic from the Hartford gun buyback program

above: #UNLOAD director of education programs, Darcy Hicks, (standing, third from right) and artist, Jahmane West, (standing in yellow) with teen students installing #UNLOAD: Aiming exhibit

above: Hartford Deputy Police Chief Brian Foley with Helen and Mary, picking up decommissioned gun pieces acquired from an #UNLOAD-funded gun buyback program in Hartford • #UNLOAD supporters from Westport at the March for Our Lives rally in Washington, DC.

WESTPORTMAG.COM

the most memorable war images of our time.) “All school children are mythology in America—the individual hero who will take on the bad affected by this,” Helen says. “All school children have lockdowns. guys and solve the problem,” Mary says. “The gun is the perfect impleIt’s not just areas of urban violence.” At a workshop the previous day, ment. It allows the hero to exist and succeed.” Art has reflected these things—Warhol’s guns are “sexy, sleek, a thirteen-year-old named Lily had made a painting of a girl entering school. We see the back of her head and the smoky color she’s headed sculptural,” Helen points out—but increasingly the art of the gun has turned darker, reflecting disturbing realities that the artists clearly into. It’s titled, “Warning: Possible War Zone Ahead. Hazard.” “These students, they have all sorts of stories,” Helen continues, want us to think about. (Among those realities: our gun murder rate scrolling through her photographs of the workshop. “His grandfather is about twenty-five times higher than the rate of other developed was shot dead in Mexico … Her father died a month before she was countries.) The poet W. H. Auden suggested that art can’t do much to effect change: “Poetry born—shot dead at a bar in makes nothing happen.” Bridgeport.” Helen and Mary disagree. “I think stories are real“A dear friend of mine who ly critical to what we’re is a major art collector and doing,” Mary says. “People philanthropist said prearen’t persuaded by facts, cisely that”—that art can’t right? People are persuaded change things, Helen says. by narrative—and then you “It annoys and disappoints weave in the facts.” me. And then I think, ‘You Helen says, “Even yesknow what? You can think terday, seeing these kids that, and you can do nothopen up and respond with ing.’ But I keep sending their stories by making him pictures of #UNLOAD art—it might be a drop in events. I might be able to the bucket, but it makes a turn him around.” difference.” Art doesn’t change Among the spoken-word things with the speed of a events that Helen and lightning strike, Helen and Mary have in mind are a Mary note, but art does last night of storytelling modGun components that artists used to create artwork that will be on exhibit at the Ely Center as a kind of collective truth eled on the Moth Radio of Contemporary Art in New Haven October 11 through November 11 in great works like Goya’s Hour, bringing together, “Disasters of War” series for example, a gun owner, “IT’S NEVER JUST ABOUT A PICTURE ON THE WALL. and Picasso’s “Guernica.” an ex-gang member, an IT’S ABOUT AUDIENCE RESPONSE, PARTICIPATION, Closer to our own experiemergency room doctor to DISCOVERING WHAT THAT IMAGE IS ABOUT. SURE IT ence are the protest songs tell their true gun stories. CAN BE ABOUT PURE AESTHETIC. BUT FOR ME, IT of the sixties and Maya They plan as well to hold Lin’s Vietnam Veterans grassroots events in peoSINGS ONCE THERE IS AUDIENCE ENGAGEMENT.” Memorial, whose minimalple’s homes, “mini-Moths” —HELEN DURING ist design provoked furious that would prompt conversation, and art nights in which a curator would present works for debate (critics called it “a black gash of shame”) before it came to discussion. “One of the goals for #UNLOAD,” Mary says, “is to create be acknowledged as a masterpiece, and a healing one at that. These works impart something we need to know or feel. They charge the a blueprint here in Connecticut and export it to other states.” But what can art really do, given the national psychology? “Our air. They get people talking—and that’s what #UNLOAD is really all nation was born at the end of a musket,” historian Walter Isaacson about. “Painters painting, writers writing, people speaking—these are writes in the “Guns in the Hands of Artists” catalogue. Guns run through our lore, from the backwoodsmen and the Wild West outlaws ways, through the arts, of just loosening up that knot. Because, at the of old America on up through the Dirty Harrys, Die Hards, Missions moment, we are in a knot,” Helen says. “If you’re a sailor, if you pull too Impossible and other pleasurably violent dramas that Hollywood tight on a knot and you keep pulling on it, it’s never going to undo. You produces. A gun is self-reliance, it’s potency. (“All you need to make have to loosen both sides of the knot, right? Somehow you have to genG a movie is a girl and a gun,” said D. W. Griffith.) “There’s this hero tly loosen it, and I think the arts can do that. They have that magic.” W

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018 WESTPORT

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Shipman & Goodwin LLP 289 Greenwich Ave., Greenwich 203-869-5600 shipmangoodwin.com

DAVID HERMENZE

Hermenze & Marcantonio 19 Ludlow Rd., Westport 203-226-6552 hmtrust.com

LEONARD LEADER

Wiggin & Dana LLP 2 Stamford Plz., Stamford 203-363-7600 wiggin.com

EDWARD MARCANTONIO

Hermenze & Marcantonio 19 Ludlow Rd., Westport 203-226-6552 hmtrust.com

GEORGE MARKLEY

1700 Post Rd., Fairfield 203-259-1177

JOHN MUSICARO

Cummings & Lockwood LLC 6 Landmark Sq., Stamford 203-327-1700 cl-law.com

DOUGLAS OLIN

Cummings & Lockwood LLC 2 Greenwich Plz., Greenwich 203-869-1200 cl-law.com

JOSEPH PANKOWSKI

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

CHARLES PIETERSE

Whitman Breed Abbott & Morgan LLC 500 W. Putnam Ave., Greenwich 203-862-2332 whitmanbreed.com

EDWARD RODENBACH Cummings & Lockwood LLC

WESTPORTMAG.COM

2 Greenwich Plz., Greenwich 203-869-1200 cl-law.com

JAMES RUBINO

1100 Summer St., Stamford 203-327-4212 attorneyrubino.com

RICHARD SARNER

184 Atlantic St., Stamford 203-967-8899 sarnerlaw.com

GINA SILVESTRI

Cummings & Lockwood LLC 2 Greenwich Plz., Greenwich 203-869-1200 cl-law.co

GEORGE SMITH

Smith & Grant LLP 9 Greenwich Office Park, Greenwich 203-661-1110 smithgrant.com

JAMES STEWART

Pullman & Comley LLC 850 Main St., Bridgeport 203-330-2000 pullcom.com

AMY TODISCO

PETER BRYNICZKA

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

GARY I. COHEN

1100 Summer St., Stamford 203-622-8787 giclaw.com

CYNTHIA COULTER GEORGE

Pullman & Comley LLC 850 Main St., Bridgeport 203-330-2000 pullcom.com

WAYNE EFFRON

67 Holly Hill Ln., Greenwich 203-622-1160 effronlaw.com

GAETANO FERRO

Rutkin Oldham & Griffin LLC 5 Imperial Ave., Westport 203-227-7301 rutkinoldham.com

ERIC HIGGINS

JANET BATTEY

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

JILL BLOMBERG

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

ERIC BRODER

Broder and Orland LLC 55 Greens Farms Rd., Westport 203-222-4949 broderorland.com

EDWARD NUSBAUM

212 Post Rd. W., Westport 203-226-8181 nusbaumparrino.com

CAROLE ORLAND

DAVID GRIFFIN

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

COLLIN BARON

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

JUDGE ANNE C. DRANGINIS (RET.)

HOWARD TUTHILL

RICHARD ALBRECHT

ANDREW NEMIROFF

SARAH OLDHAM

Braunstein & Todisco PC One Eliot Place, Fairfield 203-254-1118 btlaw.com

FAMILY

HEALTHCARE

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

Ferro, Battey & McNamara LLC 320 Post Rd., Darien 203-424-0260 ferrofamilylaw.com

Cummings & Lockwood LLC 6 Landmark Sq., Stamford 203-327-1700 cl-law.com

203-521-1040 meehanlaw.com

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

JOCELYN HURWITZ

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

AMY MCNAMARA

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

MORTON MARVIN

Morton E. Marvin LLC 80 Main St., New Canaan 203-539-0888 mortmarvinmediation .com

MICHAEL MEEHAN

Meehan Law LLC 76 Lyon Ter., Bridgeport

Rutkin Oldham & Griffin LLC 5 Imperial Ave., Westport 203-227-7301 rutkinoldham.com Broder and Orland LLC 55 Greens Farms Rd., Westport 203-222-4949 broderorland.com

Pullman & Comley LLC 850 Main St., Bridgeport 203-330-2000 pullcom.com

PAUL KNAG

Murtha Cullina LLC 177 Broad St., Stamford 203-653-5407 murthalaw.com

MAUREEN DANEY COX

Carmody Torrance Sandak & Hennessey 50 Leavenworth St., Waterbury 203-573-1200 carmodylaw.com

MICHAEL DOWLING

Holahan, Gumpper Dowling 1375 Kings Highway E., Fairfield 203-384-1385 hganddlaw.com

PETER DREYER

LAND USE & ZONING

Silver Golub & Teitell LLP 184 Atlantic St., Stamford 877-731-9050 sgtlaw.com

PATRICIA SULLIVAN

STEPHAN FINN

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

AUSTIN WOLF

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

MONTE FRANK

THOMAS PARRINO

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

DAVID FRIEDMAN

RACHEL PENCHU

LEGAL MALPRACTICE

Parrino Shattuck PC 285 Riverside Ave., Westport 203-557-9755 parrinoshattuck.com Cohen & Wolf 1115 Broad St., Bridgeport 203-368-0211 cohenandwolf.com

ARNOLD RUTKIN

Rutkin Oldham & Griffin LLC 5 Imperial Ave., Westport 203-227-7301 rutkinoldham.com

THOMAS SHANLEY

37 Arch St., Greenwich 203-622-9004 shanleylawfirm.com

FREDERIC SIEGEL Siegel Reilly & Kaufman LLC 1266 E. Main St., Stamford 203-326-5145 srkfamlaw.com

LOUISE TRUAX

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

PAUL TUSCH

ROBERT C. E. LANEY

Ryan Ryan DeLuca 185 Asylum St., Hartford 203-785-5150 ryandelucalaw.com

LITIGATION ROBERT ADELMAN

Adelman Hirsch Connors 1000 Lafayette Blvd., Bridgeport 203-331-8888 ahctriallaw.com

DAVID BALL

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

JOHN CANNAVINO

Cummings & Lockwood LLC 6 Landmark Sq., Stamford 203-327-1700 cl-law.com

Cacace, Tusch & Santagata 777 Summer St., Stamford 203-327-2000 lawcts.com

JOHN CARBERRY

AIDEN WELSH

STEPHEN CONOVER

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

Cummings & Lockwood LLC 6 Landmark Sq., Stamford 203-327-1700 cl-law.com Carmody Torrance Sandak & Hennessey 707 Summer St., Stamford 203-425-4200 carmodylaw.com

Pullman & Comley LLC 850 Main St., Bridgeport 203-330-2000 pullcom.com Murtha Cullina LLC 177 Broad St., Stamford 203-653-5438 murthalaw.com

SCOTT HARRINGTON

Diserio Martin O'Connor & Castiglioni LLP 1 Atlantic St., Stamford 203-569-1107 dmoc.com

MICHAEL KAELIN

Cummings & Lockwood LLC 6 Landmark Sq., Stamford 203-327-1700 cl-law.com

STUART KATZ

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

PAUL LANGE

80 Ferry Blvd., Stratford 203-375-7724 lopal.com

FRANK MURPHY

Tierney, Zullo, Flaherty & Murphy PC 134 East Ave., Norwalk 203-853-7000 tierneyzullomurphy.com

CATHERINE NIETZEL

Ryan Ryan Deluca LLP 707 Summer St., Stamford 203-357-9200 ryandelucalaw.com

PHILIP PIRES

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

Larry Keigwin + Nicole Wolcott in

Places Please!

Friday & Saturday, November 16 & 17, 2018 | 8 pm

DATE NIGHT

• DAN

EN • T S

IN DR K CE • LI

Set backstage during the final moments before the curtain rises, this cabaret-style performance is a buzz-worthy cocktail of biting satire, quick-witted physical comedy, and gentle moments of deep pathos capturing the dynamic creative process and relationship. Dance / Performance Album

Nora Chipaumire

An epic performance experience inspired by radical artists Patti Smith, Grace Jones, and Rit Nzele. Friday, November 2, 2018 | 8 pm

Soweto Gospel Choir

Two-time Grammy Award winners will lift spirits with Holiday favorites and songs in celebration of Nelson Mandela. Wednesday, December 5, 2018 | 8 pm

203.254.4010 QuickCenter.com

THE

JAMES ROBERTSON JR. Carmody Torrance Sandak & Hennessey 50 Leavenworth St., Waterbury 203-573-1200 carmodylaw.com

JAMES ROSENBLUM

Rosenblum Newfield 1 Landmark Sq., Stamford 203-358-9200 rosenblumnewfield.com

EDWARD SCOFIELD

1000 Lafayette Blvd., Bridgeport 203-331-8888 ahctriallaw.com

JIM HORWITZ

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

ANTONIO PONVERT III

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

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

JAMES T. (TIM) SHEARIN

CINDY ROBINSON

Pullman & Comley LLC 850 Main St., Bridgeport 203-330-2000 pullcom.com

JOHN STRETTON

Ogletree Deakins 281 Tresser Blvd., Stamford 203-969-3101 ogletree.com

JONATHAN TROPP

Day Pitney LLP 201 Broad St., Stamford 203-977-7300 daypitney.com

FREDERIC URY

Ury & Moskow, LLC 883 Black Rock Tpke., Fairfield 888-529-4335 urymoskow.com

DOUG VARGA

Lucas & Varga 2425 Post Rd., Southport 203-227-8400 lbv-law.com

Tremont Sheldon Robinson Mahoney PC 64 Lyon Ter., Bridgeport 203-335-5145 tremontsheldon.com

DANIEL RYAN III

Ryan Ryan Deluca LLP 707 Summer St., Stamford 203-357-9200 ryandelucalaw.com

NICHOLAS WOCL

Tooher Wocl & Leydon LLC 80 4th St., Stamford 203-517-0456 tooherwocl.com

MALPRACTICE RICHARD MEEHAN

Meehan Meehan & Gavin LLP 76 Lyon Ter., Bridgeport 203-333-1888 meehanlaw.com

MEDICAL MALPRACTICE MARY CONNORS

Adelman Hirsch Connors

WESTPORTMAG.COM

CHARLES DELUCA

Ryan Ryan Deluca LLP 707 Summer St., Stamford 203-357-9200 ryandelucalaw.com

RICHARD HASTINGS

Hastings, Cohan & Walsh LLP 440 Main St., Ridgefield 203-438-7450 hcwlaw.com

PAUL SLAGER

Silver Golub & Teitell LLP 184 Atlantic St., Stamford 877-731-9050 sgtlaw.com

JASON TREMONT

Tremont Sheldon Robinson Mahoney PC 64 Lyon Ter., Bridgeport 203-335-5145 tremontsheldon.com

ANGELO ZIOTAS

ROBERT HICKEY

Silver Golub & Teitell LLP 184 Atlantic St., Stamford 877-731-9050 sgtlaw.com

JORAM HIRSCH

PROFESSIONAL LIABILITY

Ryan Ryan Deluca LLP 707 Summer St., Stamford 203-357-9200 ryandelucalaw.com Adelman Hirsch Connors 1000 Lafayette Blvd., Bridgeport 203-331-8888 ahctriallaw.com

DOUGLAS MAHONEY

DAVID ATKINS

Pullman & Comley LLC 850 Main St., Bridgeport 203-330-2000 pullcom.com

76 Lyon Ter., Bridgeport 203-333-1353

NEAL MOSKOW

JONATHAN BOWMAN

JAMES NOONAN

MICHAEL CACACE

MARIO COPPOLA

Berchem, Moses & Devlin PC 1221 Post Rd. E. , Westport 203-227-9545 bmdlaw.com

PERSONAL INJURY

Ryan Ryan Deluca LLP 707 Summer St., Stamford 203-357-9200 ryandelucalaw.com

FRANK BAILEY

ANTHONY PIAZZA

Tremont Sheldon Robinson Mahoney PC 64 Lyon Ter., Bridgeport 203-335-5145 tremontsheldon.com

RICHARD BIEDER

Piazza, Simmons & Grant 112 Prospect St., Stamford 203-883-0679 piazzainjurylawyers.com

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

MICHAEL RYAN

ADAM BLANK

Tremont Sheldon Robinson Mahoney PC 64 Lyon Ter., Bridgeport 203-335-5145 tremontsheldon.com

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

STEWART CASPER

Casper & de Toledo LLC 1458 Bedford St., Stamford

Ryan Ryan Deluca LLP 707 Summer St., Stamford 203-357-9200 ryandelucalaw.com

ROBERT SHELDON

RICHARD SILVER

Silver Golub & Teitell LLP 184 Atlantic St., Stamford 877-731-9050 sgtlaw.com

MICHAEL HINTON

RICHARD DI MARCO

Cummings & Lockwood LLC 6 Landmark Sq., Stamford 203-327-1700 cl-law.com

MARK KIRSCH

Cohen & Wolf 1115 Broad St., Bridgeport 203-368-0211 cohenandwolf.com Cacace, Tusch & Santagata 777 Summer St., Stamford 203-327-2000 lawcts.com

BRUCE COHEN

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

STEVEN ELBAUM

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

Braunstein & Todisco PC One Eliot Place, Fairfield 203-254-1118 bertralaw.com Cohen & Wolf 320 Post Rd. W., Westport 203-222-1034 cohenandwolf.com

BRETT DIXON

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

Finn Dixon & Herling LLP 6 Landmark Sq., Stamford 203-325-5000 fdh.com

HOWARD KOMISAR

LESLIE GRODD

KENT NEVINS

LAWRENCE MERLY

TAXATION SAMUEL BRAUNSTEIN

Carmody Torrance Sandak & Hennessey 707 Summer St., Stamford 203-425-4200 carmodylaw.com

JONATHAN MILLS

IRA BLOOM

203-222-1034 cohenandwolf.com

WILLIAM HENNESSEY

RICHARD BERKOWITZ

Berkowitz, Trager & Trager LLC 8 Wright St., Westport 203-226-1001 bertralaw.com

Ury & Moskow LLC 883 Black Rock Tpke., Fairfield 888-529-4335 urymoskow.com

Shipman & Goodwin LLP 300 Atlantic St., Stamford 203-324-8100 shipmangoodwin.com

REAL ESTATE

MUNICIPAL Berchem, Moses & Devlin PC 1221 Post Rd. E., Westport 203-227-9545 bmdlaw.com

DONALD GUSTAFSON

Berkowitz, Trager & Trager LLC 8 Wright St., Westport 203-226-1001 bertralaw.com

Tremont Sheldon Robinson Mahoney PC 64 Lyon Ter., Bridgeport 203-335-5145 tremontsheldon.com

CHARLES WILLINGER

Willinger, Willinger & Bucci 855 Main St., Bridgeport 203-366-3939 wwblaw.com

203-325-8600 casperdetoledo.com

Cummings & Lockwood LLC 6 Landmark Sq., Stamford 203-327-1700 cl-law.com Shipman & Goodwin LLP 301 Atlantic St., Stamford 203-324-8100 shipmangoodwin.com

EDWARD O'HANLAN

Robinson+Cole 1055 Washington Blvd., Stamford 203-462-7556 rc.com

MICHAEL PROCTOR

Pullman & Comley LLC 850 Main St., Bridgeport 203-330-2000 pullcom.com

JAMES RILEY

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

STEVEN SIEGELAUB

Halloran & Sage LLP 315 Post Rd. W., Westport 203-227-2855 halloransage.com

DAVID LEHN

Withers Bergman LLP 1700 E. Putnam Ave., Greenwich 203-302-4077 withersworldwide.com

D. ROBERT MORRIS

Pullman & Comley LLC 850 Main St., Bridgeport 203-330-2000 pullcom.com

TRUSTS & ESTATES GREGORY HAYES Day Pitney LLP 201 Broad St., Stamford 203-977-7300 daypitney.com

PETER MOTT

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

RONALD B. NOREN

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

GRETA SOLOMON

GEOFFREY FAY

Berkowitz, Trager & Trager LLC 8 Wright St., Westport 203-226-1001 bertralaw.com

ANDREW GLICKSON

SECURITIES

AMY WILFERT

Pullman & Comley LLC 107 Elm St., Stamford 203-324-5000 pullcom.com Pullman & Comley LLC 107 Elm St., Stamford 203-324-5000 pullcom.com

RICHARD SLAVIN

Cohen & Wolf 320 Post Rd. W., Westport

Cohen & Wolf 1115 Broad St., Bridgeport 203-368-0211 cohenandwolf.com Day Pitney LLP 201 Broad St., Stamford 203-977-7300 daypitney.com W

PHOTOGRAPH BY PAUL @ADOBESTOCK.COM

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Legal Profiles

Notable Lawyers in Fairfield County and the Details Behind their Practice

Legal Profiles

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

pullman & Comley, LLC Two Stamford Plaza, 281 Tresser Boulevard, 10th Floor, Stamford 850 Main Street, Bridgeport 33 Riverside Avenue, Westport 203-330-2000 | pullcom.com

Celebrating 100 years in Fairfield County in 2019, Pullman & Comley is one of Connecticut’s preeminent full-service law firms and a leader in the business community, partnering with our clients to solve their most complex legal challenges. We serve emerging growth businesses and public and private companies of all sizes, as well as educational institutions, government entities and nonprofits, in the areas of business and finance, environmental, energy, healthcare, labor and employment, litigation, real estate and land use law.

law office of thomas m. shanley Family Law

37 Arch Street, Greenwich 203-622-9004 | shanleylawfirm.com

100

WESTPORTMAG.COM

Attorneys from the Family Law, Trusts & Estates and Tax practices are picture from left to right, standing: David B. Bussolotta; Johanna S. Katz, Jill D. Bicks, Campbell D. Barrett, Livia D. Barndollar, Jon T. Kukucka, James B. Stewart, Nancy A. D. Hancock, D. Robert Morris; seated: Judge Anne B. Dranginis (Ret.), Michael J. Marafito, Judge Lynda B. Munro (Ret.), Lauren C. Davies.

We also provide a range of legal services tailored to individuals, families and closely held businesses. Our Family Law attorneys, for example, are skilled in all aspects of divorce, property distribution, alimony, child support and child custody, and collaborative divorce. The Alternative Dispute Resolution practice offers mediation services in both business disputes and all family

and matrimonial matters. Our Trusts and Estates attorneys provide estate, gift tax, business succession, charitable giving and philanthropic planning; estate settlement; trust administration; conservatorships; and probate litigation. Attorneys in our Tax practice regularly advise businesses, individuals and tax-exempt entities on all aspects of federal, state, local and international tax matters.

Attorney Thomas M. Shanley focuses his practice on family law, handling matters involving divorce, child custody, child support and other family law-related issues. He serves clients in Greenwich and throughout Fairfield County, including Darien, New Canaan, Fairfield, Norwalk, Old Greenwich, Stamford, Westport and Weston. Shanley has been licensed to practice law since 1979 and has more than thirty years of experience. He is a skilled negotiator and has successfully settled more than ninety percent of his cases, however, he is an extremely effective litigator willing and able to go to trial if required. He has successfully argued numerous cases before the Connecticut Appellate and Supreme Courts. Shanley has a history of representing clients, such as physicians, corporate executives, financial sector employees and other professionals who have significant and often complex assets and incomes. He has developed a case management method that is highly personalized, reliably private and technologically current. Over the course of his career, Shanley has received many honors and awards

for his accomplishments. He is rated AV-Preeminent from the peer review service Martindale-Hubbell, which is the highest professional standards of ability and ethics and is listed in the Bar Register of Preeminent Lawyers. He has also been named a “top lawyer” by New Canaan Darien magazine and one of the “top 522 attorneys in 67 practice areas” by Greenwich magazine. Active in his legal community, Shanley has lectured at various bar association events and serves as a special master for the Connecticut Superior Court’s family division. He is a member of professional organizations including the Greenwich Bar Association, the American Association for Justice and the American Bar Association. Shanley holds a bachelor’s degree from Fairfield University and received his law degree Cum Laude from New York Law School. He is licensed to practice in all Connecticut state courts and is admitted and qualified to appear before the U.S. District Court for the District of Connecticut and the Supreme Court of the United States.

Legal Profiles

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

rutkin, oldham & griffin, llc 5 Imperial Avenue, Westport 203-227-7301 2 Lafayette Court, Greenwich 203-869-7277 rutkinoldham.com Arnold H. Rutkin

THE FIRM Rutkin, Oldham & Griffin is a wellestablished boutique matrimonial law firm with a team of five attorneys who exclusively practice family law. We provide sophisticated legal services to clients in all areas of family law and have extensive experience resolving high net worth cases with innovative solutions. Our attorneys work diligently to solve problems and attain the most favorable results for clients while maintaining their privacy with the utmost discretion and compassion.

Sarah S. Oldham

David W. Griffin

COMPLEX DIVORCES & CUSTODY DISPUTES We routinely navigate clients through high-stakes divorce. The majority of our clients have challenging cases due to complex property division issues or because alimony, child support and custody are being contested. Our depth in this niche is well known and differentiates Rutkin, Oldham & Griffin from other firms. We limit the number of cases we take to ensure that all clients receive the highest quality of service and personal attention.

Dyan M. Kozaczka

Karissa L. Parker

LEADERS IN FAMILY LAW Through both advocacy and client representation, Rutkin, Oldham & Griffin has played a major role in shaping Connecticut family law legislation and creating new case law. Two senior partners are co-authors of “Connecticut Family Law and Practice,” a three-volume series published by West Publishing that is widely cited by judges and other family lawyers in the state. Our firm is also internationally recognized for leadership within the field of family law. Our partners have lectured and written extensively on family law matters throughout the world.

broder & orland llc Matrimonial and Family Law

55 Greens Farms Road, Westport 115 East Putnam Avenue, Greenwich 203-222-4949 | broderorland.com

Broder & Orland LLC, Connecticut’s largest matrimonial and family law firm, concentrates on all divorce-related matters, including child custody and relocation cases, alimony and child support, property distribution, business valuation, prenuptial and postnuptial agreements and post-judgment enforcement issues. The firm provides mediation services and engages in litigation in all courts in Fairfield County and throughout Connecticut, representing a wide range of clients. It has successfully handled some of the most notable cases in the state. Its team model and concierge approach are highly effective in

From left to right: Andrew Eliot, Jaime Dursht, Lauren Healy, Carole Orland, Eric Broder, Sarah Murray, Chris DeMattie and Nicole DiGiose.

cases that include complex business and asset structures where income and valuation are at issue, as well as childcentered disputes involving psychological and custody evaluations. The firm and attorneys Broder and Orland have received an AV® PreeminentTM rating from MartindaleHubbell®, the highest possible distinction in legal ability and ethical standards, earned through a strenuous judicial and peer review. Several of the firm’s attorneys have been selected as Connecticut Super Lawyers®. Additionally, attorneys Broder and Orland

have been designated as Top Lawyers in Westport, Greenwich, Stamford, New Canaan/Darien and Fairfield Living magazines. The National Academy of Family Law Attorneys has also chosen attorneys Broder, Orland, Healy and Murray as Top 10 Family Law Attorneys in Connecticut. Attorney Broder is the past president of the Fairfield Bar Association and past president of the Fairfield County Bar Foundation. Attorneys Broder, Orland and Healy serve as Special Masters in the Family Division of the Stamford and Bridgeport Superior Courts.

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018 WESTPORT

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Moffly greenwich half vertical NOV iSSUE.qxp_Layout 1 10/3/18 4:16 PM Page 1

THE RIDGEFIELD PLAYHOUSE Non-profit 501 (c) (3)

MOFFLY MEDIA

EVENING OF ART, WINE & JAZZ SERIES Join us in the lobby for wine tasting by Pera Wines & an art exhibit!

12/19 Glenn Miller Orchestra: In the Christmas Mood

A night of Big Band holiday favorites! Sponsored by Laurel Ridge Health Care Center

4/28 In the Mood:

A 1940s Musical Revue

25th Anniversary Silver Celebration Tour

A nostalgic Big Band musical revue featuring singers, dancers, period Costumes & the String of Pearls Orchestra!

ALSO COMING UP…

The Burr Homestead 739 Old Post Road, Fairfield, Connecticut

November 29—December 2, 2018 Enjoy Daily! Holiday Gift Boutique Designer Decorated Rooms Decorated Trees & Wreaths for Sale

Special Holiday Events! Wine & Craft Beer Tasting Preview Party Thursday, November 29th

Photos with Santa

Holiday Hip Hop Family Night Friday, November 30th

The Annual Quilt Raffle to benefit Fairfield Museum and History Center

Casino Night Saturday, December 1st Nutcracker Sweet Tea Sunday, December 2nd

www.FairfieldChristmasTreeFestival.org

11/9 Gladys Knight

Grammy Award-winner known for “Midnight Train to Georgia,” “Best Thing That Ever Happened to Me” & more!

11/10 Bebe Neuwirth

Tony & Emmy Award Winner! Stories & Song with Piano

11/18 Dance to the Holidays

Starring “Dancing with the Stars” Mirrorball champions Tony Dovolani, Karina Smirnoff & other celebrity pros!

11/30 Ronnie Spector & The Ronettes:

Best Christmas Party Ever!

Performing with The Ronettes for the first time since the 1970s!

12/2 Ben Vereen

Steppin’ Out for the Holidays Special 4pm show – includes showtunes, Christmas & Hanukkah songs!

203.438.5795 • RIDGEFIELDPLAYHOUSE.ORG 102

WESTPORTMAG.COM

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, 2018. 4. Issue Frequency: bi-monthly. 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. Diane Sembrot, Editor, 205 Main Street, Westport, CT 06880. Amy Vischio, Managing Editor, 205 Main Street, Westport, CT 06880. 10. Owner: Moffly Media, 205 Main Street, Westport, CT 06880. 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 2018. 15. Extent and Nature of Circulation: a. Total Number of Copies (net press run): *8,609 **8,753; b(1). Paid/Requested Outside-County Mail Subscription Stated on Form 3541: *708 **685; b(2). Paid In-County Subscriptions: *2,697 **2,609; b(3). Sales Through Dealers and Carriers, Street Vendors, Counter Sales, and Other Non-USPS Paid Distribution: *663 **650; b(4). Other Classes Mailed Through the USPS: *0 **0; c. Total Paid and/or Requested Circulation (Sum of 15b (1), (2), (3), (4): *4,068 **3,944; 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: *1,470 **1,459; d(3). Other Classes Mailed Through the USPS *0 **0; d(4). Free Distribution Outside the Mail (Carriers or Other Means): *1,833 **2,100; e. Total Free or Nominal Rate Distribution (Sum of 15d (1), (2), (3), (4): *3,303 **3,559; f. Total Distribution (Sum of 15c and 15e): *7,371 **7,503; g. Copies Not Distributed: *1,238 **1,250; h. Total (Sum of 15f, 15g): *8,609 **8,753; i. Percent Paid and/or Requested Circulation (15c divided by 15f. times 100): *55.2 percent **52.6 percent. 17. This Statement of Ownership will be printed in the Nov/Dec 2018 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). Brian R. Feidt, CFO, October 1, 2018. *Average No. Copies Each Issue During Proceeding 12 Months. **Actual No. Copies of Single Issue Published Nearest to Filing Date.

INDEX OF ADVERTISERS ARTS & ANTIQUES Backspace . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 Drew Klotz Kinetic Sculpture . . . . . . . 56

AUTOMOTIVE Jaguar Fairfield . . . . . . . . . . . . Cover 4 Scap Chrysler Jeep . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43

BUILDING & HOME IMPROVEMENT Austin Patterson Disston Architects . . . . . . . . . . . . 61 Grand Entrance Gates . . . . . . . . . . . 49 Michael Smith Architects . . . . . . . . . . 19

to Our Annual Gingerbread Houses & Cocktails For A Cause . . . . . . . . 58 Connecticut Women's Hall of Fame 25th Annual Induction Ceremony & Celebration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39 Fairfield County's Community Foundation Community Impact Awards . . . . . . 16 Light a Fire 2018 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81 Westport Historical Society Presents Holly Days . . . . . . . . . . . . . Cover 3 Westport Historical Society/The 32nd Annual Holiday House Tour . . . . . . 58

FASHION Mitchells . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2, 3, 4, 5

BUSINESS & FINANCE Broder & Orland LLC . . . . . . . . . . . 101 Clapboard Hill Private Wealth . . . . . . . 12 Cummings & Lockwood LLC . . . . . 14, 95 Georgette H. Geller, ChFC, CLU . . . . . . 10 Law Office of Thomas M. Shanley . . . . 100 People's United Advisors . . . . . . . . . 55 Pullman & Comley, LLC . . . . . . . . . . 100 Rutkin, Oldham & Griffin, LLC . . . . . . 101

FOOD, CATERING & LODGING

EDUCATION & CHILDREN

Hospital for Special Surgery . . . . . . . 29 Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33 Norwalk Hospital with MSK Physicians . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 Stamford Health . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 Whip Salon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

Bi-Cultural Hebrew Academy of Connecticut . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49 Greens Farms Academy . . . . . . . . . . 23

ENTERTAINMENT Star 99.9/The Anna & Raven Show . . 103 Fairfield University Quick Center for the Arts . . . . . . . . . . . . 97 The Ridgefield Playhouse . . . . . . . . . 102 Westport Country Playhouse Hershey Felder Presents Mona Golabek in The Pianist of Willesden Lane . . . . . 35

WEEKDAYS 5:30-10AM

55 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51 Cava . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51 Flipside Burgers & Bar . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Harvest . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51 Savannah Bee Company . . . . . . . . . 39 Scena . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51

HEALTH & BEAUTY

JEWELRY Hermès . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Lux Bond & Green . . . . . . . . . Cover 2, 1 Manfredi . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Rolex . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Cover 2, 1

EVENTS

REAL ESTATE

5th Annual Greenwich Restaurant Week . . . . . . . . . . . . 53 10th Annual Greenwich Reindeer Festival & Santa's Village . . . . . . . . . . . . 80 The 2018 Fairfield Christmas Tree Festival/A Season to Give & Grow . . 102 A-list Awards Thank You . . . . . . . . . . . 37 Antiquarius MMXVIII to Benefit the Greenwich Historical Society Art and History Programs . . . . . . . . . 80 Best of the Gold Coast Online Store . . . 92 The Center for Sexual Assault Crisis Counseling & Education Invites You

Fifteen Hudson Yards . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 Houlihan Lawrence . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Michelle & Company/ William Raveis Real Estate . . . . . . . 59 William Raveis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

COUPLES COURT 7:40AM

REAL ESTATE, DESTINATION John's Island Real Estate Company . . . 11

MISCELLANEOUS Big Picture . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31 Westy Self Storage . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018 WESTPORT

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NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018

NOV.

info, visit newhavensymphony.org. for details.

Fri.30

Thurs. 1

WINE

THEATER

The Inn at Longshore will host its 27th Annual Westport Uncorked Wine Tasting, featuring 100 curated wines, hors d'oeuvres and a fundraiser. Visit westportsunriserotary .org for more info.

Westport Country Playhouse debuts the world premiere of Thousand Pines,as part of its New Works Circle Initiative. The drama, which highlights the aftermath of gun violence after a national tragedy hits a fictitious high school, runs until Nov. 17. westportcountryplay house.org.

Thurs.-Sat. 1–3 ARTISANS SHOW

Celebrating its 33rd year, Wilton Historical Society will be showing 35+ American artisans from around the country in its American Artisan Show. Beautiful handmade works will be on display, with proceeds benefiting the society’s educational programs. For details and times, visit wiltonhistorical.org.

Sat. 3

HARVESTFEST

Come out to support the community during HarvestFest, sponsored by the Domestic Violence Crisis Center. Seasonal hors d'oeuvres, cocktails and live music will be provided at the Fairfield County Hunt Club in Westport. Proceeds from this event will help fund educational services and other initiatives for the organization. For tickets, go to dvccct.org.

Sat. 3

COMEDY

Comedian Mike Birbiglia will perform at this

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WESTPORTMAG.COM

DEC.

Light a Fire

Sat. 1

HOLIDAY MARKET

November 29

Moffly Media’s 11th Annual Light a Fire event holds a torch up for Fairfield County’s most respected philanthropic heroes. The award reception and cocktail party, which will be hosted this year at King School, celebrates the work of nonprofit organizations who have made a longstanding impact through works of charity, generosity and humanitarianism. Visit ilovefc.com, for ticket info and event details. year’s “Stand Up for Homes with Hope” annual fundraiser. The event will take place at the Quick Center for the Arts at Fairfield University to raise funds for homelessness. Visit hwhct.org for more event information.

Sat.-Sun. 3–4 CRAFTS SHOW

It’s never too early to kick off holiday shopping in Westport. CraftWestport, the forty-three-year-old indoor fine crafts event, returns with a pop-up Marketplace, highlighting Connecticut artists, and a “Family Fun Day” hosted by Westport

Young Woman’s League. For more info., visit wywl.com.

Sat. 17

FARMERS' MARKET

Be sure to check out the opening of the winter Westport Farmer’s Market, which runs through March. This community event offers healthy, locally grown produce, educational services and more all season long. Details at westportfarmersmarket .com.

Thurs. 22

TRAIN EXHIBIT

Train lovers will get right into the Christmas spirit

at the Wilton Historical Society Annual Great Trains Holiday Exhibit. Watch as moving toy trains roll through a scenic winter landscape and two working Ferris wheels spin. Visit wiltonhistoricalsociety .com for more.

Sat. 8 SANTA

Santa makes a special visit to the Wilton Historical Society and to hear kids' wish lists this season. For more info., go to wiltonhistoricalsociety.com.

Sun. 9

Thurs. 29

CLASSICAL MUSIC

Lachat Town Farm will host its first Holiday Market from noon until 4 p.m. This will include a variety of local artisanal vendors, food trucks, live holiday music, Christmas tree sale and a bonfire to close out the day. For more info., visit lachattownfarm.org.

HOUSE TOUR

At 7:30 p.m., witness a live performance of Beethoven’s heroic Symphony No. 3 and innovative and groundbreaking Piano Concerto No. 4 by Yale’s own Boris Berman at the New Haven Symphony Orchestra. For ticket prices and other

Jennifer O'Reilly's home, the eighteenth-century Grumman Goodsell Toll House, featured in this issue, will be displayed on the Westport Historical Society's Annual Holiday House Tour. Visit, westporthistory.org for more details.

BY JOEY MACARI

Wed. 12

JACK MITCHELL

Learn about the art of selling and the importance of customer care with Jack Mitchell, Chairman of Mitchell's store. At the Unitarian Church, Mitchell will talk about his new book, "Selling the Hug Your Customer's Way," from 7 to 8 p.m. westportlibrary. com .

Wed. 12

POP MUISC

Head over to the Ridgefield Playhouse to see Nick Lachey and the band 98˚in its Christmas 2018 Tour. Special meetand-greet packages will also be offered. Go to ridgefieldplayhouse.org to buy tickets.

Sun. 16

HISTORY BOOK

Participate in a History Book Discussion with Pulitzer Prize–winning author, David Hackett Fischer at the Westport Library. His new book explores how the war for American independence was won, and how the crucial six-month period that was instrumental in winning the war. For event details, visit westportlibrary.org.

Mon. 31

FIRST NIGHT

Celebrate New Year’s Eve in the heart of town with First Night Westport. This community-wide celebration of the new year features performances, fireworks, food vendors and more. First Night Buttons will be on sale starting December 15. For more information, visit firstnightww.com. W

( for more fun events visit westportmag.com )

PHOTOGRAPHY BY MELANI LUST

Don’t Miss This

I S T OR ICA H L RT SO O P

d PR ESEN T S

HOLLY

DAYS!

A MONTH LONG WINTER CELEBRATION TREE DECORATING d MEET SANTA CANDLE MAKING d MENORAH DECORATING GINGERBREAD CONTEST d SOLSTICE STORYTELLING

FOR MORE INFORMATION & TICKETS VISIT WESTPORTHISTORY.ORG OR CALL 203 222-1424