JUNE 2020
CityLifestyle.com/Westport
WESTPORT STRONG SUPPORT LOCAL
FOOD FOR THE FRONT LINES
HEY PARENTS! THIS GUY'S MAKING ONLINE LEARNING FUN!
MEN OF WESTPORT
OUR BEST SAV SAVINGS A INGS PLAN EVER. AV
Part of banking well is doing good, and with hundreds of animals in local shelters, it’s time to do some serious saving. That’s why, with the support of local community partners, we launched the Bankwell Pet Adoption Project to boost awareness and collect supplies for all the special dogs and cats in need of a home.
Go to mybankwell.com/PleaseAdoptMe to see available dogs and cats and see how you can help.
mybankwell.com/PleaseAdoptMe 100 Post Road East, Westport | (203) 652-2710 Special thanks to our outstanding volunteer photographer, Mike Bagley, whose generosity and remarkable way with animals has played a vital role in this program. Member FDIC | Equal Housing Lender
HIGH END WOOL RUGS
CUSTOM ORDER
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PROFESSIONAL CLEANING SERVICES 31-35 South Main Street Nor walk
203-299-1760
IF YOU NEED ROBOTIC-ASSISTED SURGERY, CONSIDER WHOM THE ROBOT IS ASSISTING. Which doctor you choose can make all the difference in the world. SPECIALIZING IN MINIMALLY INVASIVE GYNECOLOGIC SURGERY DA VINCI TRAINED AND CERTIFIED
Dr. Mary Murray MD, FACOG, Clinical Instructor, Yale School of Medicine With Offices in Westport and Milford
Women Caring for Women Serving Connecticut Since 1989 SOUTHERN CONNECTICUT
Women’s Health Care A S S O C I AT E S Early Morning, Late Afternoon & Saturday Morning Hours Available Associated with Yale-New Haven Hospital. We accept most Insurances.
32 Imperial Ave., Westport, CT 203.783.0543 | scwhca.com
Gault Strong. Westport Strong.
YOU FIRST. SINCE 1863
203.227.5181
GaultStone.com GaultEnergy.com ENERGY & HOME SOLUTIONS
LANDSCAPE DESIGN MASONRY PROPERTY MAINTENANCE
3369 Fairfield Ave, Bridgeport, Connecticut (203)923-2648
jpphilbinlandscapes@gmail.com
AWARD WINNING DESIGN 175 Post Road W, Westport, CT 06880 | 203.454.0032 | karenberkemeyerhome.com
LIFESTYLE LETTER
JUNE 2020 PUBLISHER
Marisa MacLean | marisa.maclean@lifestylepubs.com EDITORIAL SUPERVISOR
Robin Moyer Chung | robin.chung@lifestylepubs.com AD DESIGNER
Kaylee Mitchell LAYOUT DESIGNER
Emily Stout CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Robin Moyer Chung, Nicole Straight
Westport Strong
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
John Videler, Gladson, Nicole Straight, Melani Lust
DEAR READER, Even though we’re not able to see our friends and neighbors, we remain tethered to one another with invisible threads. These threads, like a spider’s silk filaments, are stronger than steel and impossible to replicate with technology and industry. Created solely between people, they criss-cross, inter-connecting us with an unseen but unmistakable web. Within this web is kindness, sadness, love and hope. It is bittersweet that this issue marks 2 years of our first publication in June 2018.
CORPORATE TEAM CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore
Westport Lifestyle’s mission has always been to focus on the positive of our com-
ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor
munity. We highlight the men and women who make this town the one in which we
OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson
all choose to live and raise our families. As we approach our 2-year anniversary, we
AD MANAGER Chad Jensen
will continue to reflect the extraordinary people around us: the artists and philan-
REGIONAL SALES DIRECTOR Eric Williams
thropists, the business owners and politicians, the real estate agents, firemen and
WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell
women, police officers, designers, and so much more. And, of course, every tireless medical professional. Our new situation has either created or revealed countless acts of charity and aid. We’re spending important and unprecedented time with our families. We’ll see today’s advancements in medical technology save the lives of our loved ones in the future. We’ve learned to appreciate, more than ever, the people we rely on for groceries, gas, and other essentials. We at Westport Lifestyle love sharing the talents and strengths of people to whom we are all connected, and will continue to whether we see each other or not. Stay safe,
ARIZONA | CALIFORNIA | COLORADO | CONNECTICUT | FLORIDA | GEORGIA IDAHO | ILLINOIS | KANSAS | MARYLAND | MASSACHUSETTS | MICHIGAN MINNESOTA | MISSOURI | MONTANA | NEVADA | NEW JERSEY | NEW YORK NORTH CAROLINA | OHIO | OKLAHOMA | OREGON | PENNSYLVANIA SOUTH CAROLINA | TENNESSEE | TEXAS | VIRGINIA | WASHINGTON
The Team at Westport Lifestyle Magazine #WestportStrong
CityLifestyle.com/Westport ON THE COVER Our beautiful town PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOHN VIDELER 10
Westport Lifestyle | June 2020
514 W 26TH ST., KANSAS CITY, MO Proverbs 3:5-6 Westport Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Westport areas’ most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in Westport Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.
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INSIDE THE ISSUE JUNE 2020
FEATURES 30 Men of Westport Six of Our Most Amazing Men
36 Hey Parents! This Guy's Making Online Learning Fun! And Heeeeeeere's Brian!
42 Aesthetic Procedures for the Quarantine-Weary Dr. O'Connell's Laxity Ladders
30 36
48 Food For The Front Lines Supporting Chefs and Healthcare Workers During COVID-19
48
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DEPARTMENTS 10
Lifestyle Letter
14
Locals Only
18
Our Town
20 Local Limelight 30 Inspired By 36 Back Stage 42 Locally Owned 48 Giving Back 54 Trend Setter 58 Local’s Choice
CLOSETS • GARAGE • HOME OFFICE • ENTERTAINMENT • WALL UNITS • WALL BEDS • PANTRY • CRAFT • LAUNDRY • MUD ROOM • WINE ROOM
free online or in-home design consultations available
REACH-IN CLOSET
OFFICE
LAUNDRY
WALL BEDS
Call (203) 616-5847 for a free design consultation and estimate or visit us online at closetfactory.com Showroom: 100 Wooster Street, Bethel, CT 06801 ©2020 Closet Factory. All right reserved.
the art of organization
LOCALS ONLY 1.
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Thanks for reading! We love seeing some of our favorite people in town reading Westport Lifestyle! Thank you for making us part of your quarantine routine.
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1. The Sklar Family | 2. Kitt Shapiro | 3. Wright Street | 4. Teddy and Jenny Lukens | 5. Lisa Wexler | 6. Alison Reilly | 7. Rob Simmelkjaer | 8. Kris Toohey | 9. Westport 2nd Selectwoman, Jennifer Tooker. | 10. Brian Kelsey | 11. Rosie Jon and her daughter | 12. Jane Green 14
Westport Lifestyle | June 2020
DR. MASHA KOGAN & DR. VIRGINIA ROMANO
203.227.8700 • DENTALCENTERWESTPORT.COM • CARE@DENTALCENTERWESTPORT.COM invisalign® | B OTOX ® | iTero® | ZO O M Whitening® | KöR Whitening® | P i c a s s o Laser®
429 Post Road East, Westport 4 2 4 . 2 93 .76 6 3 W W W. AW E S O M E TOYS .C O M
Westport’s Local Toy Store WITH A HUGE SELECTION
SHOP ONLINE
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WE OFFER CURBSIDE PICK UP FOR ANY SIZE PURCHASE OR FREE DELIVERY WITH A $25 MINIMUM PURCHASE.
C O M E P L AY W I T H U S ! We have a friendly knowledgeable staff to help you with all your gift buying needs. We open early and close late 7 days a week for your shopping convenience. Free weekly events. Awesome cafe for coffee and free Wifi while your kids play!
Custom Tailor and Shirtmaker 5 Post Road West, Westport CT | 203.557.6644 | stephenkempson.com
OUR TOWN
A Letter from Matthew Mandell PRESIDENT OF THE WESTPORT WESTON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ARTICLE MATTHEW MANDELL PHOTOGRAPHY JOHN VIDELER
and medical personnel answering the call to aid those in need showed Westport’s true colors. Ensuring our local and state economy gets back on track is a prime focus as we look to reopen Main street, Saugatuck and our Post Road businesses. Their success is ours, as we and the town rely upon their vibrancy and continued existence. Going the extra mile to shop local and support our friends and neighbors will benefit all of us. Hopefully in our time of isolation we found a silver lining in what was otherwise a very dark cloud. Family dinners, game nights, household projects, reading books, learning an instrument or watching movies are all things we might never have had time to do or appreciate. Yet, most of us did have that time and those with families got to share unique moments with them. Technology has been a savior with even those who found themselves alone could be brought into the mix for a holiday celebration, a virtual happy hour or just to say hello and say nice to see you. We may not know what the new normal will be for a while, but when it occurs I know Westport and her residents will be there to enjoy it together. Matthew Mandell HELLO WESTPORT,
* This letter was written on April 15th
Needless to say these are unprecedented times and we are still going through uncharted waters. As we enter our third
Matthew Mandell
month of closed businesses, social distancing and a lack of a
Executive Director & President
clear outcome,* we should still realize that as a community we
Westport-Weston Chamber of Commerce
are strong and together as a community we will triumph. All of us have seen great deeds, actions and support for those
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Westport-Weston Chamber of Commerce
who otherwise might not have faired well. Donations to the food
41 Riverside Avenue Westport, CT
banks, shopping for the elderly and of course our first responders
WestportWestonChamber.com
Westport Lifestyle | June 2020
Thanks to our great team we are looking at a May 20th reopening for all aesthetic services (subject to change by the Governor). Total Aesthetics is different from some aesthetic practices. Because we do not contractually participate with managed care, we are a low volume practice. Because of this we will be able to manage patient flow to optimize your safety and to facilitate a meticulously clean, safe and secure environment. We’re not about volume - we’re about quality. Our employees only work at Total Aesthetics and do not work at other health care facilities. We never have, and do not perform aesthetic services outside of the cleanliness and safety of our office.
WHE N ON LY THE BEST WIL L DO. At Total Aesthetics all Botox and fillers are personally administered by Dr. Joseph O'Connell, a double board certified plastic surgeon with 34 years experience.
208 Post Road West Westport, CT | (203) 454-0044 | PlasticSurgeryCT.com
LOCAL LIMELIGHT
support local! LET’S TAKE CARE OF EACH OTHER. OUR LOCAL BUSINESSES NEED US MORE THAN EVER.
ELEISH VAN BREEMS HOME Eleish Van Breems Home is a Scandinavian home furnishing and design company offering the best Nordic design of the past, present, and future. Products proudly produced by artisans range
WOAH! Check out this list of local businesses in Westport - there are a
from throws, rugs, pillows, pottery, furniture, lighting, jewelry, and
lot of them. There are many more not on this list, too. We printed them
leather goods. Along with their retail location in Westport and
here because we’re inspired by and grateful for what these smart, creative, and energetic people do to make our town an exceptional place. Imagine what life would be like without them! A bunch of big corporations who don’t care about our town as much these people do.
soon Nantucket, they recently launched their e-commerce website evbantiques.com. Eleish Van Breems Home continues to support the local community and during this time ask you to keep in mind the people in need and on front lines.
For 185 years local businesses have given Westport its personality and charm. Please buy local and keep Westport strong. #westportstrong
SAUGATUCK FINANCIAL CLOSET FACTORY “Closet Factory offers custom organizational solutions for every room in your home: closets, home offices, wall beds, garages, pantry rooms, laundry rooms, etc. In addition to our traditional In-Home Design Consultations we are now offering Free Online Design Consultations. We want you, our client, to feel safe. Select the option that best fits your comfort zone and start collaborating with one of our Professional Designers about your project. Sign up or call us today to schedule your Free Design Consultation. closetfactory.com
274 Riverside Avenue, 4th Floor Saugatuck-Financial.com For over a decade, Saugatuck Financial has provide comprehensive, tax-efficient financial planning and wealth management strategies for high net worth individuals, families, businesses and institutions. We partner with each client to create and implement a tailor-made financial plan integrating risk and wealth management, tax strategies, estate planning and retirement income distribution planning—all under one roof. Our award-winning advisors, Justin Charise and Al Schor, are consistently recognized among the top advisors in the industry, and our team takes pride in providing world-class strategies and platinum-level service to each client. Please don’t hesitate to call on us if we can be of service – it would be our privilege.
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Westport Lifestyle | June 2020
WESTPORT RIVER GALLERY One Riverside Avenue WestportRiverGallery.com Westport River Gallery offers distinctive European, French, British, American & Asian fine art, working with collectors, corporate clients & decorators. Artists are selected based on their reputation and credentials. Styles include impressionist, traditional, reverse glass, and abstract. This includes the father of French Impressionism, Camille Pissarro, and his subsequent generations of artists. Also, internationally collected French artists Chagall, Dorie, Dubord, Courchia, Kaprielian, Duteil, Estivalet, Ardissone, Eitel, Poumelin, Kerfily. American artists include Paprocki, Antonelle, Mona, Fatse, Bond, Saffer, Protsouk. The gallery is owned by Ken & Pat Warren, open since 2004, and is nestled along the Saugatuck River.
WAG CENTRAL 80 Hathaway Drive, Stratford WagCentralCT.com Welcome to Wag Central, the hub of canine culture. Owner, Angela Pantalone, a former kindergarten teacher, saw the need for a special recreational space for dogs to socialize, learn and grow. The spacious facility in Stratford offers boarding, daycare, grooming and training, and a pool! But most importantly, it’s a place where pups, playfully called Waggers, call their home away from home. The capable Wag Team led by Pantalone understands not only dog language, but that your pup is your beloved companion; her 3 children work in the business as well! Wag Central looks forward to catering to your pup’s individual needs.
DENTAL CENTER OF WESTPORT 175 Post Road West DentalCenterWestport.com Dental Center of Westport is proudly an all-women team that has been serving the Westport community for over 20 years. In our office we strive to deliver personalized dental care where patients feel well cared for, catered to and are treated like family. We provide a full range of services including routine cleanings, pediatric dentistry, Invisalign treatment as well as cosmetic dentistry such as smile makeovers and veneers. We are moving to a brand new location in the spring of 2020 with state-of-the-art technology. We are thrilled to welcome and serve our community! CONTINUED > CityLifestyle.com/Westport
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LOCAL LIMELIGHT (CONTINUED)
JOYRIDE STUDIOS JoyRideStudio.com JoyRide Cycling + Fitness is an inclusive community that empowers our athletes to use the strength built inside the studio as a tool to live a BIG, JOYful life. Our high-quality boutique classes tone every muscle in your body while improving your state of mind! Think calorie-torching, endorphin-surged, high-energy group fitness classes for everyone - no matter your age or fitness level. In addition to our award-winning indoor cycling classes, we offer a variety of strengthening, lengthening and resistance
VIDELER PHOTOGRAPHY 203-856-5075 Videler.com Westport Photographer for over 30 years. Portrait photography and buildings are my major shoots. But I also enjoy photographing product, families, events and I have a drone license for some really great aerials. When not photographing in studio or on location you may find me riding my mountain bike somewhere in our lovely state of Connecticut.
classes. When the lights go down and the music turns up, we become one team working toward a common goal on our journey.
SHERATON CAREGIVERS Sheraton Caregivers is a therapeutic, non-medical homecare agency located in Westport, CT serving all of Connecticut and into Westchester County, NY. We offer hourly to 24-hour live-in care for those who need support at home, wherever their home may be. At Sheraton, we believe in a holistic approach to care, that’s why we have Expressive Arts. Our Expressive Arts therapies arecomplimentary to our homecare clients. These therapies include Art Therapy, Music Therapy, MnemeTherapy, Pet Therapy, Massage Therapy, and Yoga. All led by trained/certified professional therapists. Please reach out to us by emailing info@sheraton.care, calling 203-221-0221 or visiting www.sheraton.care.
TOTAL AESTHETICS 208 Post Road West PlasticSurgeryCT.com Total Aesthetics® (TA) is the nationally renowned practice of double board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Joseph O’Connell. From Botox and fillers to facelifts, tummy-tucks, breast and body contouring, O’Connell does every procedure himself to ensure excellent results. TA stands apart in several other ways: While Dr. O’Connell prefers newer, less invasive techniques, he’s not limited by these; TA has the latest “hybrid” procedures like FaceTite and BodyTite; to minimize cost, risk, and recovery time he invests in the latest laser and radio-frequency based technologies. During the COVID-19 crisis TA donated critical supplies from their on-site surgicenter to the Westport Police and they are long-term supporters of many local charities.
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Westport Lifestyle | June 2020
WESTPORT DOWNTOWN MERCHANTS ASSOCIATION CLAPBOARD HILL PRIVATE WEALTH 1265 Post Road East ClapboardHill.com Clapboard Hill Private Wealth was founded by Tom Pacilio and colleagues, with decades of experience in management positions at top New York City investment firms, Merrill Lynch and Morgan Stanley. The goal was to create and deliver their world-class expertise, combined with a higher level of boutique service to local clientele.
WestportDMA.com The Westport Downtown Merchants Association (WDMA) is a non-profit advocacy organization of merchants, business owners and landlords working together to improve the commerce and culture of downtown Westport, Connecticut, for the benefit of our community and commercial constituents. In addition to supporting the maintenance and beautification of our district, the WDMA runs consumer events to draw attention and visitation to the area including Fashionably Westport, the Fine Arts Festival and Westoberfest. In emergency times, we provide support and advocacy for our community and our stores.
Clapboard Hill is building a trusted local institution for the long term, growing in size and reputation. He has worked with the same team for many years and slowly integrating the second generation, as his older son, Brandon joined the firm after spending over 5 years in the financial services industry most recently at Bridgewater Associates. Tom Pacilio has been in Westport for almost 30 years raising 4 children with his wife and building community relationships.
BLACKSTONES STEAKHOUSE
ALL ABOUT YOU MEDICAL SPA Advanced Aesthetics, Natural Results. 79 South Benson Road, Fairfield All-About-You-Med-Spa.com
BlackstonesSteakhouse.com
There is no "one-sized fits all" treatment at All About You Medical
The Ahmetaj Family has been in the restaurant business for over
Spa. Dr. Christine Gould customizes and combines the most effec-
20 years. Their first restaurant was Nino’s Italian Restaurant, in
tive and safe non-invasive procedures to create a plan for each
South Salem, NY. In 2014, the five brothers created the Blackstones
individual based on desired results, budget, and downtime. It's very
Steakhouse concept, opening the first location in Norwalk CT. The
important to offer her patients the newest modalities so they have
restaurant’s stellar reputation for bringing back old school hospitality
the best choices on the aesthetic market when they come to her. Dr.
and offering a classic steakhouse experience has made Blackstones
Gould provides the latest in skin rejuvenation (Morpheus, Halo/BBL,
one of the most recognized steakhouses in Fairfield county. Today,
Plasma Pen, Profound, Ultherapy) , injectables, body contouring
their signature juicy USDA prime cuts of dry-aged steak, mar-
(Emsculpt, CoolSculpting, Trusculpt ID/Flex, Evolve Trim/Tone/
ket-fresh seafood and raw bar, curated wine program, and private
Tight), hormone balancing, sexual health (Diva, OShot) and hair
party production can be enjoyed throughout Fairfield County at their
growth options for thinning hair. www.drchrstinegould.com
Greenwich, Stamford, Norwalk, and Southport locations.
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CityLifestyle.com/Westport
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LOCAL LIMELIGHT (CONTINUED)
MINDY BRIAR PHOTOGRAPHY Whether it be a branding session in the busy city, a romantic couples session at sunset at your favorite beach, or family portraits on a perfect sunny day in the park. I’m here to celebrate YOU and capture your best moments in a lovely and inspiring way. I believe that every person has a special story to tell and it’s my goal to capture your authenticity through my camera lens. Mindy Briar Photography specializes in weddings, families, newborns and branding/business photography. You can also find dreamy modern travel prints for your home on her Etsy shop, Mindy Briar Print Shop. Stay strong and healthy, Westport! I can’t wait to be out photographing you all soon!
BLOW DRY blowdrysouthport.com Our team at Blow Dry wants to say a huge thank you to all the superstars in our medical community and our exemplary essential workers who work tirelessly and selflessly to keep us safe and healthy. We have never been more proud to be part of the Fairfield County community. As soon as everyone is feeling strong, we will be here to do our part – helping everyone look their best. We cannot wait.
SAVVY + GRACE 146 Main St, Westport, CT 06880
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PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY AT WESTPORT DENTAL ASSOCIATES
Savvy+Grace is a mini-department store with a baffling amount of
Since 1963, Westport Dental Associates has been serving Fairfield
merchandise. Owner, Annette Norton, buys with turbo-charged
County. As we have expanded our services to include the specialty of
enthusiasm. With items from $9 to over $1,000, Annette’s prices
Pediatric Dentistry, our practice is a unique environment in the community
are equal to or better than those clicked into carts AND she offers
where we provide comprehensive care for all members of the family, from
beautiful gift-wrapping free of charge. S+G is excited to announce
as early as age one. Our goal is the dental health of all our patients. We
that they just launched an online retail shop as well. Check it out
are proud to provide the finest health care in a congenial, comfortable
at https://www.savvyandgracewestport.com Now you can sup-
and professional atmosphere. Our team of doctors work diligently to make
port and shop local from the convenience of your home!
sure that each and every visit to our office is a pleasant one for everyone.
Westport Lifestyle | June 2020
GREG & TONY For more than 40 years, our Greg & Tony family has been inspired and motivated by the people who make up our greater family: the Fairfield County community. We’ve seen it all and we know that together we always rise to a challenge and come through better than
MINDY WOLKSTEIN REAL ESTATE
ever. We are so grateful to everyone who has have kept us all going during this difficult time, and we look forward to reconnecting with all our clients and friends in our chairs soon.
(203) 216-1287 MindyWolkstein.Raveis.com I was taken out of Manhattan kicking and screaming because the company that I was working with was moving to Connecticut. My whole life turned for the better once I embraced the move. I bought a house, had a career change to real estate and got married! Let me help you with your transition whether it is to the city, to an apartment/ condo or a move across town. I have been there and can relate to what you are going through!
IN2BLUE DESIGN
PHYSIQUE 57
I love what I do. Helping clients re-imagine their outdoor spaces and creating
623 Post Road East
landscapes and swimming pools that homeowners and families will enjoy for
Physique57.com
years to come is so fulfilling. Not that the construction process isn't without it's
Physique 57 is an international fitness and media company head-
challenges, and even though those challenges sometimes seem insurmount-
quartered in New York City. The world’s leading barre-based
able, working through design dilemmas results in the most incredible in-ground
exercise method, Physique 57 is an intense 57-minute workout that
pools and landscapes. I look forward to meeting you and working together to
combines cardio, strength training, stretching, innovative choreogra-
create your magical outdoor retreat.
phy and energizing music in a motivating class setting. As graceful as it is addictive, Physique 57 sculpts the body, trimming inches through fluid full body exercises that build gorgeous long, lean muscle. Physique 57 Westport is owned by Kate Kennedy, who is excited to empower Connecticut to be the strongest versions of themselves they can be, and welcome her first child in 2020. CONTINUED >
CityLifestyle.com/Westport
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LOCAL LIMELIGHT (CONTINUED)
MARILYN HEFFERS Marilyn’s success as a realtor results from her personal, professional commitment to her clients through superior customer service, with per-
KAREN BERKEMEYER HOME
sistence, unparalleled attention to detail, creative negotiating and communication through every aspect of the transaction. She brings a wealth
(203) 454-0032
of knowledge of local markets to her clients, gained from 27+ years as
KarenBerkemeyerHome.com
a realtor, long-time residency in Westport, and active involvement in
Karen Berkemeyer Home is a full service, award winning, kitchen and
community service, youth athletic activities and schools. In navigating
bath design studio. Karen has assembled a talented team of dedicated
the twists and turns of a real estate transaction, Marilyn utilizes her BS
and creative designers who have extensive cabinetry, tile and plumb-
in Nursing degree and experience as critical care unit head nurse to
ing knowledge. They each have a comprehensive understanding of
analyze a situation and respond quickly and appropriately. Marilyn’s #1
construction realities so that selections always meet expectations and
priority is always her client’s happiness. Repeat business and referrals
timelines. Designers and customers meet in a showroom space where
are the best indication of that being achieved.
product selections are made from a carefully curated collection of cabinetry, tile, stone, countertops and plumbing at a range of price points. From simple upgrades to large and complex design projects, we would love to help you navigate your next project!
PURE BARRE During times of stress, people count on pure barre to keep them strong. What we do in our studio everyday is transform lives both physically and mentally. Even virtually, our community has shown up and proven to be stronger than we could have ever imagined. We are so blessed and thankful for the Westport community that has continued to support our small business during this crisis. Every person has a story, a journey, and we invite you back into the studio to share yours with us and allow us to be a part of your journey moving forward. We are #westportstrong and #purebarrestrong together. 26
Westport Lifestyle | June 2020
IDEAL WEIGHT LOSS (917) 207-1234 IdealWeightLossMgmt.com We developed the IWL E.A.T.S. Approach to support our clients in reaching their weight loss objectives—Education, Accountability, Tools, Structure. Results are quickly visible, predictable and repeated, even for those that have struggled with other programs or are dealing with health issues that impact weight loss. The ability to lose weight and manage it is attainable for anybody, be it 10 pounds or 200 pounds. The ability is in us, it is a matter of how best to ignite it while following a proven protocol. That is where IWL comes in. Ask any of our incredible clients, our well-being warriors!
HIGGINS GROUP PRIVATE BROKERAGE Higgins Group Private Brokerage is an independently operated Real Estate brokerage serving Connecticut. We have approximately 430 agents and 10 offices located throughout Fairfield and New Haven Counties giving us market expertise for both buyers and sellers. Our company represents a diverse range of personalities, backgrounds, languages, and knowledge – with the shared goal of providing exemplary service to our clients. We are an affiliate of Who’s Who in Luxury Real Estate, a leading real estate organization since 1986. This hand-selected group of more than 130,000 professionals with properties in more than 70 countries collectively sells over $300 billion of real estate annually.
JESUP HALL, THE WHELK AND KAWA NI Jesup Hall Established in 2017 and housed in the historic Town Hall, Jesup Hall is located in the heart of downtown Westport. We offer both bar and communal dining, private tables. and seasonal outdoor dining. Our ever-changing, food-focused menu is inspired by the freshest seasonal ingredients. Please check our website for updated menus and hours. Kawa Ni izakaya (居酒屋)
Japanese Pub
A type of Japanese drinking establishment which also serves food to accompany the drinks. They are casual places for after-work drinking. "Izakaya" entered the English language by 1987. It is a compound word consisting of "i" (to stay) and "sakaya" (sake shop), indicating that izakaya originated from sake shops that allowed customers to sit on the premises and drink. The basics...…Order a drink.Explore the menu. Ask as many questions as you want. Almost everything on the menu can be shared. Kanpai!
DREAM SPA AND SALON Dream Spa & Salon of Westport is 20 in 2020! From the moment you arrive, greeted as our special guest, you will recognize that youe are in an environment of elegance and tranquility. Housed in a charming colonial, you will find a curated
The Whelk A Restaurant & Seafood Bar in Saugatuck Located along the Saugatuck River, The Whelk offers an ever-changing menu featuring sustainable seafood and local produce. Private tables, communals, bar and outdoor seating give The Whelk a casual, relaxed atmosphere. Outdoor seating is available-weather permitting.
collection of luxurious services and treatments, arranged by an attentive and professional staff. From relaxing massages, renewing body scrubs and personalized facials to a spa mani/pedi or a creative cut and color, we have designed the ultimate spa and salon experience, all with your personal well-being in mind. Welcome to your beauty and wellness destination!
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CityLifestyle.com/Westport
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LOCAL LIMELIGHT (CONTINUED)
WEST WEST makes getting dressed fun!' So many times I hear women say "Where am I wearing that?" and I say to them, "Just wear it. Don't overthink it." Clothing is the skin we choose to show the world. And you should be able to wear what makes you feel good when you look at yourself in the mirror. Aren't there enough moments in the day when things get serious or tough? Let's keep it light and fun when we're getting dressed, and maybe bring a smile to our own faces when we catch a glimpse of our reflections.
PETER CADOUX ARCHITECTS Here at Peter Cadoux Architects we have over 30 years of experience in designing custom residences. Committed to exceptional designs, all of our residences, both new and renovated, include an array of styles and scale. All equally exciting and all deserving of a thoughtful solution that meets the desires of our clients packaged in ways to exceed their expectations. As a full service boutique firm, Peter Cadoux seeks clients with discerning tastes, and they can expect and receive his personal stewardship throughout the entire process. We welcome you to visit our portfolio and enjoy the inspiration.
GRAY MATTERS Gray Matters was formed 12 years ago with the simple goal of changing the way we diagnose and treat ADHD – to make advances in brain imaging and neuroscience available to the
Bankwell is a community bank that serves the banking and lending
public. The last 12 years have seen incredible advances in the
needs of businesses and residents throughout Connecticut. We are
field: Gray Matters can now map brain function in 3 dimensions
committed to providing support with our volunteer efforts, mentoring
– helping to diagnose issues like ADHD, Anxiety, Trauma and
and helping improve life in the communities we serve. Bankwell is your
Concussion based on measured brain function, rather more sub-
financial partner, today and into the future. More about Bankwell can be
jective methods.
found at www.mybankwell.com.
Gray Matters is the regional leader in neurofeedback (the only non-medication-based treatment considered effective by the American Academy of Pediatricians). Gray Matters has recorded over 10,000 QEEG brain maps and successfully treated over 5,000 patients, ranging in age from 2 to 80 years old. 28
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INSPIRED BY
ARTICLE ROBIN MOYER CHUNG PHOTOGRAPHY VARIOUS/QUARANTINE SELFIES
HIS ROLE IN THE CORONA PANDEMIC: “My top priority is managing the corona virus surge at Yale. We’re the largest medical provider in Connecticut so
Men of Westport
SIX OF OUR MOST AMAZING MEN.
we feel responsible for the entire state. Early in March I was on the phone with state reps pushing to close bars, restaurants, and other large gatherings to mitigate the transmission. This battle will be won or lost in the community, not inside the hospital.”
Steven Choi
CHIEF QUALITY OFFICER,
ABOUT BEING ON THE FRONTLINES:
DEAN OF YALE MEDICAL SCHOOL
“Well, I’m not on the frontlines yet, just managing and helping. I’m on the backup team, as many ICU colleagues are falling ill. I spent almost 20 years working as a critical care physician so I can jump in when the time comes. ” ABOUT THE INFAMOUS PARTY: “There was no social irresponsibility with that party. It could have been any party.” HIS “TYPICAL” DAY: “[It] starts with the largest mug of mud-thick coffee I can find. I try to sleep until about 6 a.m. and take some conference calls at home in the morning. I get to the hospital by 8 a.m. and head straight to our COVID call center in New Haven. We have over 30 associates who field over 2,500 phone calls a day from all over the US. In the afternoon, I round on all the ICU doctors and nurses across our seven campuses to hear what they’re seeing and how we can help them. “I’ve got an incredible group of friends. They check in on me throughout the day, drop off meals at my home, run errands for me… In the evening I squeeze in some TV and news interviews before heading home. Once I walk through the door, I jump in the shower, heat up some dinner and hit the sack. Then repeat.” FAVORITE LOCAL BUSINESS: The Whelk Medicine.Yale.edu/Profile/Steven_Choi 30
Westport Lifestyle | June 2020
VICE PRESIDENT AT YALE NEW HAVEN HEALTH SYSTEM, ASSOCIATE
Wilson Herrera STAPLES CUSTODIAN
FUTURE TEACHER Wilson dreamed of becoming a teacher. His parents, Colombian natives who never finished 5th grade, instilled in him the importance of education. He began cleaning YMCAs when he was 15, became a custodian at Bedford Middle School in 2013, then moved to Staples a year later. While working his usual 3 p.m.-11 p.m. shift one day he noticed a poster for Norwalk Community College‘s Summer Bridge program. He tried college once before but juggling work and studying proved too difficult. This poster, however, made him want to give college another shot. Wilson Herrera
Will took courses in English, Math, Environment, Psychology, Creative Writing, Philosophy, Computer Science and Public Speaking. He became involved in extracurricular activities, like planting trees at Veterans Park. All the while he worked the 2nd custodial shift at Staples. He considered dropping out just short of graduation because his mother, who had battled breast cancer twice before, was diagnosed with ovarian cancer. But she urged him to persevere. In May 2019, Will graduated from NCC with a 3.51 GPA and cum laude honors and now attends Southern Connecticut State University, all the while working the 3 p.m.-11 p.m. shift at Staples. The above is paraphrased from Dan Woog’s 06880 blog because Will declined to be interviewed. On March 18, Will wrote to me, “While it is an amazing opportunity and I am very appreciative to have been given consideration for it by you, I will have to graciously pass on this opportunity for the time being. I must say I am pretty tied up with school full-time (now online) working and taking care of a pregnant wife who requires most of my free time.” But, interview or no, we were determined to include him. He’ll be an amazing father and a wonderful teacher. FAVORITE LOCAL BUSINESS:
Rob Simmelkjaer
Angelina’s Trattoria
Rob Simmelkjaer CEO & CO-FOUNDER
PERSONA
was alive. In fact, I’d never interviewed anyone in my family! I wanted to record my daughters answering questions so I could have a video-history of their thoughts, not just how they looked. So I decided to create a place for interviews.” ON THE POWER OF INTERVIEWS: “Interviews can be momentous. They can change lives. Take Prince Andrew’s interview about his friendship with Jeffrey Epstein. It completely changed the royal family.” THE ONLY ON-AIR INTERVIEW THAT LEFT HIM SPEECHLESS:
WHY HE STARTED PERSONA, AN APP
“I was doing a football game for ESPN, Army versus Air Force at
THAT RECORDS AND SHARES VIDEOS OF PEOPLE
West Point. We’d already determined I would interview the Army
ANSWERING QUESTIONS:
coach, Bobby Ross, because they were the home team. Well, when I
“Before starting Persona I was in media and I loved interviewing
had to interview him they were losing 3 to 31. I asked him what he was
people… One day a cousin sent me a photograph of my grandfather
going to tell his team at halftime. On live television he said ‘I’m going
as a young man and I realized I wished I’d interviewed him when he
to tell them go get their heads out of their a@@es.’”
CONTINUED >
CityLifestyle.com/Westport
31
INSPIRED BY (CONTINUED) HIS FAVORITE QUESTION: “To me, the best question is ‘why?' It can be a devastating question in and of itself. There’s no good answer if you’ve done something questionable. If you’ve done something good the answer can be inspiring. It makes humans interesting because it gets to the motivation of the act.” HIS LEAST FAVORITE QUESTION: “Any question with a yes or no answer.” REGARDING THE FREQUENCY OF DOG WALKS DURING QUARANTINE: “Yeah, dogs are the big winners now.” FAVORITE LOCAL BUSINESS: Westport Hardware PersonaTalks.com
Daniel Orlovsky
Daniel Orlovsky
ESPN FOOTBALL ANALYST FORMER NFL QUARTERBACK OF HIS OFFER TO DELIVER MEALS DURING OUR COVID-19 QUARANTINE: “I offered to get meals for families and kids who couldn’t get them. I tweeted for them to DM me. The son of the owner of Sherwood Diner, he’s a great kid, reached out to me and says, ‘We’re shutting down but we have all of this food on-hand.’ So I asked families what they needed and Sherwood donated it to me. Great example of how social media helps in times of crisis.” ABOUT THE DELIVERY OF HIS TRIPLETS: “I was in Indianapolis playing football and she was living in Pennsylvania. Our boys were born at 34 weeks, which is full-term for triplets. They were delivered four days before the season was over, on a Tuesday morning. I played a game on Sunday and in the game I tore ligaments in my ankles. So I fly to Pennsylvania, go to the hospital, and I’m walking with crutches. My wife is walking bent over.
Stafford Thomas
Stafford Thomas PRINCIPAL,
STAPLES HIGH SCHOOL
We were like the walking dead.” WHAT HE LIKES BEST ABOUT ESPN: “ESPN allows me to be creative in a way I want to be creative. My
BEST PART OF HIS SUMMER JOB: “It was a natural fit to join the crew team which practiced at 5:30
great joy is when I find video on football to prove my point.”
a.m. my freshman year. In my boat was none other than Bradley
A GREAT QUOTE OF DAN’S I FOUND ON THE INTERNET:
Cooper and Jonah Nolan, he wrote the movie Momento.”
“If I was the most talented quarterback in the draft last year, but I
ABOUT CONSULTING, AS A PROFESSION:
don’t believe in myself, and I don’t know I’m good, then I’m not going
“I graduated in 1998 and the big field at that time was consulting.
to be good. But if I’m an average talent and I work hard and I have
I still don’t know what consultants do and why a 22 year-old could
confidence in myself, then I’m going to be better than that guy who
consult on anything.”
is extremely talented and doesn’t have confidence.”
HOW HE SELECTED GRADUATE SCHOOL:
FAVORITE LOCAL BUSINESS: Little Barn, Freshii, Coffee An’, Grapevine, Bar Taco, Orange Theory @danorlovsky7 32
Westport Lifestyle | June 2020
“Stanford lost my application for education policy, so I went to Brown.”
ON RACISM AT STAPLES: “The four groups that have been historically marginalized are race, religion, gender and sexual identity. It's a societal problem and as a microcosm of society it is something we need to deal with as well. We are trying to get everyone to understand and behave in ways which actively promote inclusivity. Understanding "blindspot bias" will go a long way in achieving this necessary and worthwhile goal. A goal, by the way which will take time
Jonathan Greenfield
and effort but is certainly attainable. The first step is the understanding of our expectations for how we treat each other and it can’t be done through an assembly. “We started Connections, an advisory program. It’s unfortunate we had this break because we were starting to have meaningful conversations.” HIS GOAL FOR STAPLES: “Now you can have 1,850 experiences at Staples, but what is the common experience? We want to build a community so students know Staples as more than their circle of friends and assistance with college. We want them to have an affinity and love for being a Wrecker. We want them to say ‘I had a Staples experience.’” FAVORITE LOCAL BUSINESSES: Coffee An' Donuts, Shearwater Coffee Bar
Jonathan Greenfield MANAGER, BREATHE 4 ALS DIAGNOSED WITH ALS IN DECEMBER 2018 ABOUT HIS EXPENSIVE JEANS: ABOUT JONATHAN:
“Iris she gave me a gift certificate to Mitchells, her way of upping
Written by his wife, Iris: “Even with his slur and hobble Jonathan
my wardrobe. It put me face-to-face with AG jeans. They cost
maintains [his] zeal and sense of humor. He’s a true people person,
$180 and to me that is ridiculous. I tried them on and got hooked. So
a vérité filmmaker, jujitsu-er, triathalon-er, musician, surfer, BMX-er,
I decided to buy a pair a year.
tea purveyor and teacher. What's chilling and ironic is Jonathan was
“I was wearing those jeans when I had my neurology appointment
THAT guy at the forefront of the super-catchy ice bucket challenges.”
to discuss my EMG and series of MRIs. I believed I had a C4/5, S1
ABOUT HIS TWO DAUGHTERS:
issue after years of pounding my body training and racing triathlons.
“My role as their father has always been to encourage them to step
“Dr. Leo McClusky came in and said flatly, ‘You have ALS. It’s your
forward into their fears, seek adventure and know that failure is an
genes.’ I happened to be looking down at my AG jeans. I slapped
essential part of growth.”
my hands on my thighs and said, ‘My jeans? These cost me $180
AN UPSIDE TO ILLNESS:
dollars!’ My humor was lost on Dr. McClusky, a serious man. He said,
“The best part are the people in my life. They are amazing. Iris and
‘Do you want to hear this?’ I did, but I wanted to punch him in the
I are very lucky! The ALS community brings you some of the best
face first!! I thought, ‘Let’s laugh [expletive]! This is ridiculous!!’"
people you’ll ever know.”
FAVORITE LOCAL BUSINESS: YMCA Breathe4ALS.com CityLifestyle.com/Westport
33
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Westport Lifestyle | June 2020
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BACK STAGE
H e y Pa r e n t s ! This Guy's Making Online Learning Fun!
ARTICLE ROBIN MOYER CHUNG
HEY. You. Bored yet? Haha! Of course you are! It’s been
should expect the acceleration of alternative methods
Groundhog Day for months now without the frivolity of an
of learning, such as the one we are forced to acclimatize
actual quasi-holiday. The only movie you haven’t re-en-
to today.
acted for your Facebook friends is Angry Birds 2 and you
We need someone who makes online learning fun, who
seriously considered ordering “The Last Supper” from
entertains while instructing and truly loves sharing their
Paint-By-Numbers.
knowledge. Someone like… our own Brian Kelsey!
Plus, you don’t know which is worse: the frequency with
You may know Brian or have heard of him. He’s a
which your child toggles from online lessons to YouTube or
licensed carpenter and TV host who also recorded numer-
the fact you no longer care.
ous DIY segments on TODAY and The Martha Stewart
Realistically, many things are different and will remain
Show. As a senior video/editor he founded The Lower
so after we motor through COVID-19. Some things will
Third Productions where he creates, in part, the How-To
slow down (the economy), some things will accelerate
videos about which this article is written. He’s a cinema-
(toilet paper production).
tographer, recording engineer and musician (drums, gui-
Take online learning. College tuitions are decimating
tar, organ, vocals). He’s also a voice-over actor who you’ve
the savings of every parent who attended college, so we
heard a million times without knowing it. And if you go way CONTINUED >
With guest Gino Vannelli
HEEEEEEERE'S BRIAN!
36
Westport Lifestyle | June 2020
Brian relaxing on a camera.
CityLifestyle.com/Westport
37
BACK STAGE (CONTINUED)
back, he was the voice on the Howard Stern Show that lended the broadcast an intellect and gravitas it never truly deserved. His myriad of expertise is wildly impressive and kind of difficult to fathom. Even more so because — wait for it - it’s all self-taught. Seriously. Watch his videos. In addition to learning about tools and craft, you’ll also enjoy watching the length of his hair fluctuate. He imparts his expertise with the clarity and humor of a seasoned TV host, throwing in the special effects of a tech professional and the cinematography of a real, live cinematographer. This mix is most evident in his series of Talk Show videos. Brian, a lifelong lover of Late Night, explains, “I needed an idea for another video and I really wanted to make a desk. So I made the Johnny Carson desk.” In an entertaining montage including
Prank calling Geraldo Rivera with Alisyn Camerota.
On The Martha Stewart Show. 38
Westport Lifestyle | June 2020
Late Night footage, he takes viewers into his crappy garage and walks them through the construction of Johnny’s desk. After creating this desk, Brian stood back and saw that it was good. So good, in fact, he decided it should have its own Late Night Talk Show backdrop. He then recorded a video how-to about designing and building a diminutive set next to his washing machine. In it, he offers advice such as the proper location of the desk and what types of images to use for background. But a set isn’t any fun just sitting in the dark. Cue: videos on lighting design/installation and setting up cameras. He explains how to reduce heat and glare by throwing a heavy blanket over certain light sources and how to not look scary on screen. And presto! A working TV/YouTube video studio! Guess what videos he does next? Yes! How to Talk On Camera, How to Interview ANYONE, and more. Then he composes and records his own theme music, playing every instrument himself. “Then I thought, wait - we live around
Celebrating 40 Years Founded in 1980
so many celebrities!” So he invited local celebs to the nether-regions of his home, filmed them chit-chatting with cocktails, and edited it down to 10 minutes. The result is a witty, engaging bite-size talk show: Ten Minutes With… He does all the filming, hosting and editing himself and admits, “I have six cameras running and audio so it’s kind of hairy.” While each video is a learning experience, watching the evolution of Ten Minutes With… is a lesson in itself; one of creativity, idea-generation and professionalism. You want to build a desk? You learn how to build a good one. You want to interview someone? You learn how to interview. Learn first, then create. There are no weak layers in Brian’s pyramid of projects. When our quarantine lifts, Brian plans to do more DIY videos and talk shows. For now, find him on YouTube and learn how to make something new during your home internment. It’s fun, it’s educational, and you
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haven’t already watched it five times. KelseyOnTheHouse.com TenMinutesWith.com On YouTube, search “Brian Kelsey” click on his
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photo, then click “Videos”. CityLifestyle.com/Westport
39
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833 POST ROAD EAST, WESTPORT CityLifestyle.com/Westport
41
LOCALLY OWNED
Aesthetic Procedures for the Quarantine-Weary
The waiting room.
DR. O'CONNELL'S LAXITY LADDERS ARTICLE ROBIN MOYER CHUNG | PHOTOGRAPHY MELANI LUST YOU, LIKE MOST AMERICANS, SPEND YOUR DAYS TRYING TO FLATTEN THE COVID CURVE AND BRAINSTORMING UNIQUE COURSES OF CHARITY. Meanwhile the gyms are closed so your body is softening. Zooming, Skyping and FaceTiming forces you to stare at your face, molested by the hands of time and self-quarantine. So if a “refresh” has innocently skidded across a synapse or two… Fantasies of plastic surgery are natural; we’re only human. Our consciousness has many layers and we all have different coping mechanisms. If yours is cosmetic tightening, excellent timing! Advancements in aesthetic technology have churned out some amazing minimally-invasive 42
Westport Lifestyle | June 2020
Dr. Joseph B. O'Connell
tools (i.e, no scalpel). These tools allow plastic surgeons to eradicate wrinkles, add volume, and diminish fat on any part of your body with little or no recovery time, no anesthesia, and at a fraction of the cost. All of this is perfect for Westport’s Dr. Joseph B. O’Connell, the go-to guy (“Dr. O”) for Gold Coast celebrities. He’s a nationally acclaimed double-board certified plastic surgeon, Castle Connolly “Top Doc” for 19 consecutive years and founder of Total Aesthetics®. Renowned for his “conservative” aesthetic, he focuses on looking better for your age rather than the pulled-taffy visage of ambitious youth seekers or the bodies coveted by overzealous fans of reality stars. Says Dr. O’Connell, “We don’t do Kim Kardashian’s derrière or try to make you look like someone else.” A big fan of maximum benefit/minimum risk procedures, Dr. O’Connell has amassed an unsurpassable collection of state-of-the-art technology. With lights and lasers he can safely and effectively tighten, lighten, remove and reduce almost anything on your body that’s driving you nuts, in the comfort of his office (back-door entrance, so your secret’s safe). Listen, I could go into a long analysis of aesthetics and technology, but it’s been a long few months so let’s cut to the facts: what exists and what it can do for you. Sifting through all of his options evokes feelings of confusion and incomprehension, similar to those of home-schooling three children. So Dr. O’Connell created a Ladder concept for face and body contouring* to help you decide how aggressively you wish to thwart wrinkles, sags and other unwanteds. “As you descend the Ladder you decrease risk, cost and recovery time, but you lose some power.” Most important, Dr. O’Connell performs every procedure himself, from fillers to facelifts, with the highest quality equipment and injectables. He cautions, “Botox and fillers may appear simple but they are medical procedures and at the end of the day, it’s about safety. A formally trained plastic surgeon, who understands sterile technique and the intricacies of anatomy, is the most qualified to perform these types of aesthetic procedures.” THE FACE LADDER Step 1, IPL: “Intense Pulsed Light or radiofrequency-based techniques are the first step for everyone. No matter if you’re 30 or 80, it works.” IPL (or BBL) ‘freezes’ your skin in time, removes discoloration and there’s no recovery. (2-3 sessions yearly.) Step 1 1/2, Injectables: Hollows and wrinkles in your face can be relaxed or filled with a range of injectable products. The results of fillers and Botox depend on the skill of the person injecting them and the quality of the product. (Most fillers last 6-24 months.)
CONTINUED >
CityLifestyle.com/Westport
43
LOCALLY OWNED (CONTINUED)
Step 2, SkinTyte®: Years skip by and you finally need to dial it up. SkinTyte, a light-based technology, provides significant skin tightening and can be used anywhere on the face and body. Dr. O’Connell couples it with IPL for the face and neck. “It’s a game-changer. Good for crepey skin with no recovery time.” (1 session. Results: 3-5 years.) Step 3, FaceTite®/Morpheus: This revolutionary technology “kicks that facelift down the road” with dual mode radiofrequency technology. FaceTite tightens the lower face and upper neck and Morpheus improves skin quality. Both techniques generate coveted long-term collagen production (Neocollagenesis). Morpheus can be used alone for tightening anywhere on the body (he uses it in his Sculptra® buttock lift). (3 sessions with Morpheus, 1 session with FaceTite. Recovery: 5-7 days. Results: 5-7 years.) Step 4, Facelift: The final step! Fortunately for us, Dr. O’Connell is a leading authority (he wrote the article!) on less invasive BiDirectional Lifts. (Recovery: 7-10 days. Results: 7 years or more, depending on lifestyle.) THE BODY LADDER Step 1, CoolSculpting®: Using cryolipolysis technology, CoolSculpting literally freezes away stubborn areas of fat. (1-2 sessions. Results: permanent.) Step 2, SkinTyte and Morpheus: Both procedures tighten skin with essentially no recovery; Morpheus actually contours fat. (3-4 sessions. Results: 3-5 years.) Step 3, Liposuction: Using a small tube, unwanted fat is vacuumed away. Microliposuction and fat grafting are exciting new options for refined contouring. (1 session. 1-2 days recovery. Results: permanent.) Step 4, BodyTite®: This innovative technology is also a “game-changer,” utilizing radiofrequency to melt fat and provide meaningful skin tightening to the treated area. (1 session. Recovery: 1-3 days. Results: permanent.) Step 5, Tummy Tuck: Dr. O’Connell’s innovative tummy tuck technique, the No-Drain Abdominoplasty, as published in the Journal of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, minimizes risk and improves outcome by eliminating drains. (Recovery: 10 days. Results: permanent.) Curious about costs? I can’t mention specific numbers, but I can tell you cost is directly proportional to recovery time. *He does much more than face and body contouring. See PlasticSurgeryCT.com for a full list of his procedures. Total Aesthetics 208 Post Rd. West Westport, CT 06880 44
Westport Lifestyle | June 2020
Office at 208 Post Road West.
Non-invasive aesthetic procedure room.
CityLifestyle.com/Westport
45
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Westport Lifestyle | June 2020
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GIVING BACK
ARTICLE NICOLE STRAIGHT PHOTOGRAPHY BY NICOLE STRAIGHT
Chef Matt Storch of Match Burger Lobster delivering lunch to Trumbull EMS. Matt Storch gearing up to deliver lunch to 175 people at Open Door Shelter.
Doctor at St Vincent's Hospital Norwalk happy for a delivery from Layla's Stamford.
Love all around at Greenwich Hospital courtesy of a delivery from @ucbcdarien.
FOOD FOR THE FRONT LINES 48
Westport Lifestyle | June 2020
SUPPORTING CHEFS AND HEALTHCARE WORKERS DURING COVID-19
Barbara Bross Alexander Chingas & Doug Bross
THREE AND A HALF WEEKS AGO MY DAUGHTER, EMMA, RETURNED HOME
Now more than ever, a house becomes a home.
FROM HER FRESHMAN YEAR AT SANTA CLARA UNIVERSITY. She, like all freshman,
Mike Gefen
Featured Home: 178 Hillspoint Road, Westport, $4,195,000
was just getting into the swing of college life when the University closed due to the COVID-19 crisis. After the initial shock at being back with her family, she returned to what she has always considered her second home: Westport EMS. As my daughter worked her first shift, I found myself sitting at home worrying about her as well as the state of, well, everything. I called Chef Bill Taibe (Owner of The Whelk, Kawa Ni and Jesup Hall) and asked
if I could purchase 40 individually packaged meals to bring the EMS team and to my friend, a local ER nurse. I knew the restaurants would take an immediate hit financially and I thought it would be nice to support both the chefs and the healthcare workers. Before going to sleep that night I posted to a couple of Facebook pages what I had done, and asked if anyone wanted to help support our local restaurants while supporting the EMS and hospitals. The response was overwhelming. I raised over $2,000 overnight and an additional $2,000 the next day. I picked up and delivered meals to the hospitals and EMS for the first couple of days until I realized how big this was quickly
TO OUR COMMUNITY, CLIENTS, FRIENDS AND COLLEAGUES: We wish you good health during these unprecedented times. The Bross Chingas Bross team remains available to help our clients achieve their goals. Our unmatched experience and #1 leadership position in Westport, Weston & Fairfield Sales and Listings is the key to your success. We are skillfully leveraging technology and global marketing to facilitate the sale and purchase of properties for our clientele. Contact us for a confidential consultation to hear how we can meet your needs virtually, with well-being as the first priority. -Barbara Bross, Alexander Chingas, Doug Bross, Jenny Walsh, Tom Kelley, Mike Gefen, Devin Weintraub
becoming. I quickly moved to ordering the food and having the restaurants deliver the meals directly to our specific drop location and time so the hospitals knew to expect us. CONTINUED >
(203) 454-8000 | www.BrossChingas.com 355 Riverside Avenue, Westport, CT 06880
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GIVING BACK (CONTINUED)
My friend Stephanie Webster, Editor for CTbites, reached out a day or two later and told me she loved what I was doing and wanted to help. A few days after that another friend of mine, Ria Rueda, said she wanted to help, too. Then Alison Sherman joined our tiny but powerful team of kick-ass women working at all hours of the day to make this happen. And just like that, Food For The Front Lines was created. Nicole Straight and Chef Bill Taibe delivering the first meal to Westport EMS.
Alison and Steph worked on marketing and social media to spread the word. By the end of the first week I had contacts for every ER, ICU and EMS between Danbury and Greenwich. Ria kept busy connecting to restaurants to buy as many meals as we could buy with our donations.
Note from Jesup Hall to Westport EMS.
By the second week we had people calling to see how to emulate Food For The Front Lines in Litchfield, Hartford and New Haven Counties and Westchester, NY. I shared my protocol for reaching out to the healthcare teams and Stephanie quickly created hand-out materials and logos for Greater CT. The response from local restaurants to participate has been overwhelming. Westport restaurants, including Match Burger Lobster, Romanacci’s, The Whelk, Mystic Market, OKO, and terrain have jumped at the chance to deliver food to our healthcare workers, and each restaurant has gone above and beyond what we asked. As we enter the beginning of our fourth week running Food For The Front Lines, we have purchased and delivered over 5,500 meals and raised over $85,000! I continue to hear from nurses on a daily basis who tell me they were scared, then they went to the break room and were overjoyed to see a meal that had been prepared with love waiting for them. The meals not only nourish their bodies but reminds them that we care about them. The notes of gratitude and support that the restaurants attach to their meal deliveries are incredible. I know that Food For The Front Lines may not save a restaurant during this time, but when I get a text from a restaurant owner thanking me for allowing them to keep an employee paid for an extra day or two, it feels good. We’ve lived in Westport for over over 20 years and we are moving back to California this summer. I am in awe of the generosity of this community. We will continue to buy meals to support our local restaurants and front line staff for as long as we have funding. Donate to Food For The Front Lines Go Fund Me here: gf.me/u/xrafi4 Facebook.com/FoodForTheFrontLine
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Westport Lifestyle | June 2020
THANK YOU FOR YOUR CONTINUED SUPPORT! WE WILL GET THROUGH THIS TOGETHER. IN THE MEANTIME, WE’LL KEEP FEEDING YOU.
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Westport Lifestyle | June 2020
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TREND SETTER STEPHEN KEMPSON'S TRENDS IN MENSWEAR
Stephen Kempson. Photo by Mindy Briar
C A SUAL FABRIC S , S ERIOU S CUT S ARTICLE ROBIN MOYER CHUNG PHOTOGRAPHY GLADSON
MEN, ARE YOU TIRED OF FASHION BLOGS LITTERED WITH
(Interesting side note: The cost of fabric is commensurate to the
PROMOTIONAL TIE-INS AND DUBIOUS TRENDS? (I dare any of
length of the yarn. These yarns determine the strength of the wool.
you to wear a boutonnière in public.) I bet. Realistically, though, you’ll
Higher grade wools can be spun tighter so fabrics have a natural
need some new clothes after we collectively torch our sweatpants.
stretch and/or may be water repellant or even waterproof. This
One of the great things about having a local master tailor, who customizes everything from tuxes to accessories, is his direct con-
spinning technology obviates a spray process that wears off with dry-cleaning.)
nection to clothing trends. Stephen Kempson visits the epicenters of style every year and comes back with fabrics, cuts, and ideas straight from the source. What does this mean for you? For one, you can read this and not get caught Googling men’s style guides.
COLOR AND PATTERN: If and when we crawl from our homes and our eyes adjust to sunlight, “Men will want to try something more adventurous,” says Stephen. “We’ve already seen a big move back to color, larger plaids
COMFORT, NOT CASUAL:
and window pane patterns.”
It’s an interesting amalgam of style and comfort. Younger men are
The colorful pocket square is making a comeback for those who
wearing suits, and not only when they’re getting married or on trial
want to be color-adventurous but have the common sense to not
for insider trading. Men are more fit than their 1980s counterparts
experiment with a boutonnière.
and want a slimmer cut. However, they also insist on comfort. “There’s a movement toward fabric with more stretch; clothing
DOUBLE-BREASTED JACKET:
with shape but as comfortable as jogging pants,” explains Stephen.
I was surprised, too. But Stephens explains, “I saw it two years
Traditional mills in Italy, such as Zegna and Cerruti, are spinning
ago in Italy. I made a couple of them for myself this season. It’ll take
more performance-like fabrics to create suits that stretch but retain
another couple of seasons before it catches on, but it will.” He tight-
their shape. In addition, Stephen likes to cut a higher arm hole,
ens the cut and uses performance fabric.
allowing the garment more flexibility. 54
Westport Lifestyle | June 2020
No matter what our circumstances, style never goes out of style.
02 03 01
04
06
05
07 01 Double-breasted jacket. 02 Patterns are popular. 03 Suits are well-fitted but comfort-
Stephen Kempson London
able. 04 Formalwear is going beyond black and white. 05 Pocket squares 06 Sportscoats
5 Post Rd W, Westport, CT 06880
are the “suit.” 07 Traditional mills are creating modern performance fabrics.
StephenKempson.com
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Westport Lifestyle | June 2020
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LOCAL’S CHOICE
F AT H E R ' S D AY G I F T S
AS LONG AS THERE ARE DADS, THERE WILL BE GIFTS TO THANK THEM. ARTICLE ROBIN MOYER CHUNG
S'WELL BOTTLE, 17 OZ. He has a bunch of water bottles, but none as cool as this one. SavvyAndGraceWestport.com, $35
DIVA BURGER Order a take-out dinner and let him eat whatever he wants. Jesup Hall, $22
RUKKNET GOLF POP-UP NET For practicing your swing at home without knocking out a neighbors dog. Or worse. Rukket.com, $169.99
PORTRAIT It’s always fun to see how he looks in your child’s eyes. Your Child, Free
GRILL AND CHILL: Iconic Oakville Cabernet Sauvignon and Savory Sauces Set He grills steak because he's a man. He drinks wine because he's a human. Westport Wine Club at ONEHOPE Wine WestportWineClub.com Sauces, $59.99; Wine, $125
GAS PUMP RETRO LIQUOR DISPENSER He hardly dared to dream it existed... show him it does. HomeWetBar.com, $34.95
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Westport Lifestyle | June 2020
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