AU G U S T 2 02 1
Theo takes over @samsonthedood
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LIFESTYLE LETTER
AUGUST 2021 PUBLISHER
Marisa MacLean | marisa.maclean@lifestylepubs.com EDITOR
Family THIS MONTH YOU'RE IN FOR A TREAT (AND NOT JUST A DOG TREAT). This issue is all about the little ones we love - The Kids and Pets of our community!
Robin Moyer Chung | robin.chung@lifestylepubs.com AD DESIGNER
Rachel Chrisman L AYO UT DESIGNER
Emily Lisenbee CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Robin Moyer Chung, Sophia Andersen, Angela Pantalone
Pet adoptions have been at an all time high this past year. For those with a new furry friend, you'll want to check out our gift guide on page 30.
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
John Videler, Mindy Briar, Julia Dags
While school is out, the young people in our community have been busy doing amazing things! In June, we asked you to share your kid's stories and you delivered! In this issue we interview four remarkable 'Kids of Westport'. Our local schools have been working very hard to determine what the new school year will look like. While details are still being finalized as of press time, one thing we all know is that flexibility will be key. Whatever the 2021-2022 school year looks like, families can trust that our students will have some amazing educational opportunities. Take this month to spend time with your little ones, whether they walk on two legs or four, as summer comes to a close and we watch them all get a little bit bigger and a little bit smarter.
CORPORATE TEAM CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson AD MANAGER Chad Jensen
Marisa MacLean, Publisher
REGIONAL SALES DIRECTOR Eric Williams WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell
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CityLifestyle.com/Westport ON THE COVER Theo and His Doods PHOTOGRAPHY BY MINDY BRIAR 14
Westport Lifestyle | August 2021
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 AUGUST 2021
FEATURES 38 Dood Brood Theo Takes Over Samson the Dood
46 Kids of Westport Industrious Kids in Our Community
56 The Little Puppy That Could The Deaf, Blind, Pink Dog
38 60
60 The Kleiner Triplets Graduating Seniors and Their Amazing Parents
56 DEPARTMENTS 14
Lifestyle Letter
18
Good Times
22 Around Town 26 Local Experiences
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30 Local’s Choice 34 Locals Only 38 Local Limelight 42 Healthy Lifestyle 46 Our Town 52 Locally Owned 56 Animal Kingdom 60 Inspired By 64 Lifestyle Calendar 69 Realty Report 70 Culinary Creations
GOOD TIMES
Salon dada Grand Opening Party On May 22, Salon dada threw a grand opening party and art auction! Westport Lifestyle was the media sponsor, and guests enjoyed drinks from Sono 1420 and Cylinder Vodka, and snacks from Wafu. Art proceeds benefitted Homes with Hope.
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Westport Lifestyle | August 2021
D R . M A S H A KO G A N & D R . V I R G I N I A R O M A N O
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GOOD TIMES 1.
2.
Artists Collective of Westport Pop-Up Exihibit The Artists Collective of Westport held their first live popup exhibit since March 2020 in the “Gallery at the Westport Playhouse”. Participating artists included Lucienne Buckner, Miggs Burroughs, Elizabeth DeVoll, Charles Douthat, Susan Fehlinger, Jen Greely, Toby Michaels, Nancy Moore, Mary Ann Neilson, Melissa Newman, Diane Pollack, Ellen Schiffman, and Jahmane West. The exhibit kicked off the third year of a partnership between these two local arts organizations. ArtistsCollectiveofWestport.org and WestportPlayhouse.org. (Photos: Miggs Boroughs)
3.
4.
5.
1. Hanging committee, left to right, Miggs Burroughs, Katherine Ross, Michael Brennecke, Tammy Winser, Nina Bentley and Susan Fehlinger. | 2. Collective members are "The Toasters." | 3. Louise Cadoux, Barbara Ringer, Sal Liccione and Amy Kaplan. | 4. Jay Petrow and Lynn Carlson. | 5. Art viewers.
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Westport Lifestyle | August 2021
AROUND TOWN her, her family, and legions of admirers destined to embrace the saga of the indomitable pink pup.... Please join Melissa Shapiro in conversation for the launch of her book, based on this extraordinary journey. Westport Library Tuesday, August 3, 7:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
TIMBERLAND ON SATURDAY, AUGUST 7TH AT 2 PM ACT of Connecticut is pleased to offer the Summer 2021 Performance Camp for 2nd through 5th grade students, running from July 26 to August 7th. During these exciting two weeks, campers will rehearse and perform a brand-new musical called TIMBERLAND about three kids who are summoned to a distant planet in order to reverse a terrible curse and save Timberland's majestic for-
MAN OF LA MANCHA AT WESTPORT PLAYHOUSE
est! To learn more about camp, visit , ACTofCT.org/
Starting August 23, as we celebrate 90 years
summer-camp and for information about our 2021-
of the Playhouse, it’s the perfect time to bring
2022 season and to buy tickets, visit ACTofCT.org.
back two gems from our archives of productions recorded in HD video. First up is our critically acclaimed musical from 2018, Man of La Mancha. By Dale Wasserman, Lyrics by Joe Darion, Music by Mitch Leigh, Directed by Mark Lamos.
AUDIO CAMP FOR HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS Starting Monday, August 9, 2021, 3:00 PM Learn the basic elements of home music production. Topics will range from how to record vocals, create beats with a drum machine, and record instruments. Opportunities to practically apply concepts learned each day will be provided throughout. Advanced lessons such as drum recording, and guitar amp recording will be put to the test on our final day of camp where all students will participate in a
PIGLET: THE UNEXPECTED STORY OF A DEAF, BLIND, PINK PUPPY AND HIS FAMILY
22
solo recording project with a real artist! Participants will learn about low-cost equipment and freeware software that they can use to begin recording at home with minimal financial invest-
When Connecticut veterinarian Melissa Shapiro
ment. Students will also have the opportunity to
got a call about a tiny deaf and blind puppy in need
work with professional-grade recording equipment
of fostering, she didn’t hesitate to say “yes.” Little
from the Verso Studios at the Westport Library.
did she know how that decision would transform
WestportLibrary.org
Westport Lifestyle | August 2021
CONTINUED >
WHEN ONLY THE BEST MOMMY MAKEOVER WILL DO
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AROUND TOWN The exhibition features eleven artists working in a range of mediums. Through August 21. (Shown: Pink Donut, by Jessica Alazraki)
SUMMER PLAYDATE WITH PLAY WITH YOUR FOOD Lachat Town Farm in Weston welcomes local theater group Play With Your Food on Saturday, August 7 for an evening program of delightful oneact playreadings! Play With Your Food pairs hilarious and irreverent short theater gems with top-notch professional actors to create a one-of-a-kind theater experience. Grounds open at 5:15 for picnicking followed by
CONLON, MCGLYNN & MCCANN As a family and matrimonial firm Conlon, McGlynn & McCann offers a broad range of ser-
performances/talkback with the cast and director from 6 – 7 p.m. Tickets $40: visit JIBProductions. org or call 203.293.8729. Rain date is Sunday, August 8th at 6 pm.
vices in addition to all aspects of litigation practice. With over 60 years of experience, they guide families through complex family matters. Whatever the needs of a particular case Conlon, McGlynn & McCann have the skills and training to assist you through Alternative Dispute Resolution methods. For more information please visit: conlonmcglynn.com
MOCA WESTPORT’S ANNUAL BENEFIT Support the arts in Westport and enjoy an amazing performance! MoCA Westport's annual benefit will take place on Saturday, September 18, 2021 at the Museum. The event will feature an outdoor concert by the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra and an after party featuring cocktails, appetizers, and a
ÉLAN VITAL AT MOCA WESTPORT In its largest gallery, MoCA Westport will showcase the artists selected for its first Summer Open Call, juried by Max Teicher and Emily White of Gagosian Gallery. The Call For Art was open to all emerging, mid-career, and established visual art-
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live auction led by Westporter Dave Briggs. A silent auction will open two weeks prior to the event, open to the general public. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit mocawestport.org.
WESTPORT MEANS BUSINESS On June 3, Westporters enjoyed an all-new
ists over the age of 18. MoCA Westport received
WMB panel
over 200 submissions for consideration, from
Selectwoman, Jen Tooker, engaged in an empower-
artists spanning the United States and beyond.
ing discussion with three local business leaders as
Westport Lifestyle | August 2021
discussion. Westport
Second
WHERE ART AND TECHNOLOGY CONVERGE
they shared "Stories from the Pandemic." The panelists were: Gina Procello, Co-Ownder of GG & Joe; Dr. EJ Zebro, Founder of TAP Strength; Sam Gault, President of Gault Family Companies. The event was held in person in
D R . TA N YA F U TO RYA N
Dr. Tanya Futoryan, Board-Certified Dermatologist and founder of Westport’s premiere medical, cosmetic and laser dermatology center, focuses on the complete treatment of her patients, both medically and aesthetically.
Westport Library's Trefz Forum and also streamed live.
BONPOINT OPENS NEW BOUTIQUE Bonpoint, the only French Couture House
dedicated
to
children,
has
expanded its presence in the U.S. with the opening of a new pop up boutique on Greenwich Avenue. The boutique, which officially opened in April 2021, houses the newborn, baby, girl, boy,
D R . L AU R E N L E V Y
Dr. Futoryan and the team are excited to welcome back Dr. Lauren Levy from maternity leave! Dr. Levy, Board-Certified Dermatologist, is an expert in treating acne, rosacea, skin cancer, psoriasis, and skin manifestations of rheumatologic diseases.
skincare and fragrance collections. The boutique will offer a variety of services including private appointments, distance sales via video or phone, personal shopping, home delivery, and for expectant parents, the opportunity to organize a custom baby registry with a personal stylist.
Would you like to get in touch with us? We would love to hear from you! Contact us at CityLifestyle.com/Westport using the Get In Touch link and let us know
D R . M A LC O L M C R E I G H TO N - S M I T H
Also part of the team is Dr. Malcolm Creighton-Smith, Board-Certified Dermatologist and Assistant Professor of Dermatology at UConn. He specializes in general, as well as complex medical dermatology, and cosmetics.
WESTPORTDERM.COM DIRECT: 203-226-3600 | TEXT: 203.666.6604 I N F O @ W E S T P O R T D E R M .C O M 3 2 5 R I V E R S I D E AV E W E S T P O R T
what you think. CityLifestyle.com/Westport
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LOCAL EXPERIENCES
KIDS + PETS WHILE IT’S NOT OVER YET, SUMMER IS SOON COMING TO AN END AND WHAT BETTER WAY TO BID ADIEU THAN TO SPEND TIME WITH FRIENDS, FAMILY, AND OUR FAVORITE FOUR-LEGGED FRIENDS! Embrace the end of the season by gathering the kids, dogs, and adults alike for some indoor and outdoor recreation and exploration, petfriendly destinations that embrace our furry friends, and our end of summer and return to school summer party ideas!
END-OF-SUMMER HURRAH + Head to the seaside for a sunny staycation close to home at the The Surfside and relax in a beachfront suite. The Surfside - 10 Washington Parkway Point, No Point, CT + Drive over to Silverman's Farm and visit their animal farm, country market and maybe even pick-your-own fruit (depending on this year's harvest). Silverman's Farm - 451 Sport Hill Rd Easton, CT + Spend the last days of summer sipping on local beer at Two Roads Brewery. Check their schedule for live music and events! Two Roads Brewery - 1700 Stratford Ave, Stratford, CT + Share a memorable evening with friends, family or a loved one on a beautiful sunset cruise, departing from the Maritime Aquarium dock. 10 North Water Street, Norwalk, CT + MoCa Wesport's outdoor concert series features a range of musical performances that you won't want to miss - don't forget your lawn chair! 19 Newtown Turnpike Westport, CT
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Westport Lifestyle | August 2021
scan for more city-wide tips
KIDS AT PLAY + Compo Beach's expansive wooden playscape, boardwalk, volleyball courts and clean, sandy shoreline are just a few of the draws to this picturesque spot. Compo Beach - 60 Compo Beach Road, Westport CT + Head to Longshore Sailing School where you can rent kayaks, paddle boards and more for an adventurous day on the water. Longshore Sailing School - 260 Compo Road South Westport, CT + Explore numerous nature-centered activities, hiking trails and an open play space and playground at Earthplace for some educational fun, both in and outdoors. Earthplace - 10 Woodside Lane, Westport, CT + A National Historical Park, Weir Farm’s outdoor spaces are brimming with wildlife who make their homes in the park’s meadows, pond, gardens and streams. Weir Farm National Historic Park - 735 Nod Hill Road, Wilton, CT
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+ The perfect picnic spot, Sherwood Island State Park is the ideal summer trifecta of picnic grounds, beach and marshlands. Sherwood Island State Park - Sherwood Island Connector, Westport
PET-FRIENDLY EXPERIENCES + Terrain Café’s outdoor patio is dog-friendly and your four-legged-friend will be provided with a bowl of water while you dine. Terrain Garden Cafe - 561 Post Road East Westport, CT + A welcoming place for your pup, Heibeck’s Stand has yummy treats for humans and dogs alike. They offer puppy sundaes, homemade dog treats and water bowls for those hot end-of-summer days. Heibeck's Stand - 941 Danbury Road, Wilton CT + Run free with your dog in the off-leash area of Winslow Park. This spacious landscape also includes trails, a bike path and picnic area. Winslow Park - North Compo Rd. & Post Rd. E. Westport, CT + Take your dog for a hike around Lake Mohegan, where he or she can jump in one of several swimming spots along the way to cool off. Lake Mohegan - Fairfield, CT
scan for more city-wide tips
+ Come celebrate your 4-legged friend with Wag Central! Parties held on weekends from 12:15 – 1:30pm. 80 Hathaway Drive, Stratford, CT CityLifestyle.com/Westport
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Architectural Design Interior Design Custom Homes Remodeling 203.227.1055 www.westportbuilder.com 8 Wright Street, Suite 107, Westport, CT
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Westport Lifestyle | August 2021
(Photo by Heidi Curran)
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LOCAL’S CHOICE
G
FT
I
Gifts for Dogs and Cats and Their Best Friends
G
D O G S
&
ARTICLE ROBIN MOYER CHUNG
UI 30
Westport Lifestyle | August 2021
D
CATS
E
1.
3.
4.
6.
7.
DOGS & CATS
gifts for
2.
5.
8.
9.
1. PERSONALIZE YOUR HANDBAG with your pet’s hand-painted portrait! StaudClothing. com | 2. EVERGREEN WAXED CANVAS WASTE BAG DISPENSER, TheFoggyDog. com | 3. WAG CENTRAL DOG PARTY WITH ACTIVITIES, help with photos, “cake,” gifts, goodie bags and more! WagCentralCT.com | 4. CBD SMALL BATCH DOG TREATS, FrannysFarmacy.com, Franny’s Farmacy, Westport | 5. BIODEGRADABLE WATER BOWL, share water with your dog without having to carry an extra water source, BRBPets.com | 6. HAPPY FISH BONITO SHAKE, sprinkle over any cat food to create a meal your cat will love! ShopDogAndCo.com | 7. DENTAL WIPES (eye and ear wipes also available), TrueBluePets.com | 8. Pet Sodoku, MyIntelligentPets.com | 9. EARTH ANIMAL CHICKEN NO-HIDE® WHOLESOME CHEWS, Earth Animal, Westport
CityLifestyle.com/Westport
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Back To School Sale Now In Progress 32
Westport Lifestyle | August 2021
GET READY FOR WESTPORT SUNDAYS & MONDAYS
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LOCALS ONLY
CHILD'S POSE MAKES YOGA FUN FOR KIDS
ARTICLE ROBIN MOYER CHUNG PHOTOGRAPHY JULIA DAGS
Young Yogis
DID YOUR BROTHER OR SISTER BUG YOU THIS WEEK? Let me guess: yes. Stress knows no age. Upsetting things happen, like fights with siblings, not getting on a sports team, or having to eat something yucky for dinner. It’s really important to learn how to control your feelings of being mad or anxious. Yoga is a great way to do this - it helps you get over being upset or annoyed. It also helps you focus and strengthen your body so you can do school work and
Even babies love yoga with props! 34
Westport Lifestyle | August 2021
sports better. People have been doing it for thousands of years because it makes them get stronger, heal faster, and relax. Child’s Pose in Westport can teach you how to do yoga! The best part of this class is that you won’t know you’re learning coping skills or equilibrium exercises (ask your parents what that means) because Carly Walker, “Miss Carly,” makes it so much fun. First of all, the studio is really clean with a cool coastal vibe. I realize this isn’t a gating factor for you, but - trust me - it is for your parents. Second, it’s full of toys! Like the beloved Meddy Teddy who can do interesting poses, a bag of adorable (clean!) stuffed animals, piles o’ pom poms, and darling little birds with curved beaks. You’ll think you’re having a special playdate with amazing toys, but you’ll actually be learning how to breathe and align your body in important ways. For instance, you’ll reach your hand into the bag… after you’ve washed them… and pluck out an animal. Each animal has its own “yoga pose” such as the peacock, the downward dog, and the cobra. The last pose isn’t as scary as it sounds and her stuffed snake is sparkly and smiling so you’ll forget that real cobras are deadly.
CONTINUED >
Yoga studio prepped for a birthday party!
CityLifestyle.com/Westport
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LOCALS ONLY (CONTINUED) Owner and Founder of A Child's Pose, Carly Walker.
Props and poses.
Double pose.
36
Westport Lifestyle | August 2021
YOUR DOOR TO
RESORT LIVING SEAGRAM’S CREEK | 279 NORTH AVE
These poses help you focus on stuff other than being mad at someone and also teach you balance which helps strengthen tendons. Tendons are in things like ankles, so it gets the ankles stronger and you can be better at running and jumping. You also do things like seeing how long you can balance a plastic bird on your hand while you walk on a wobbly surface, and blowing pom-poms over a bump. It all helps with the super important mind-body-breath connection. You can take classes, camps, even birthday parties! Because even though it teaches you something, it’s way fun to do! Now I have to write stuff for your parents. Carly is an Ironman racer and marathoner. Her 3-times-a-week yoga routine is essential to “undo damage that racing does” and keeps her body “aligned and injury-free.” For year she’s tried to convince adults to take yoga. But adults can be stubborn. So she turned to the kids, “If I can get kids to love yoga, that’ll make me happy.” She got her certification in kids yoga and 200 hours of adult yoga and opened Child’s Pose during the pandemic. The charming studio is tucked behind the Little Barn. So parents can find restorative peace in a Chardonnay or two while Miss Carly is “helping these tiny humans to master the ability to quiet their minds and bodies and tune into how they are feeling emotionally and physically.” Win-win.
MICHELLE
COMPANY
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Child’s Pose Westport 8 Church Street South
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Westport, CT 06880 CityLifestyle.com/Westport
37
LOCAL LIMELIGHT
ARTICLE ROBIN MOYER CHUNG PHOTOGRAPHY JESSICA FOKIDES + MINDY BRIAR
d o Br o ood D So... you see what I mean about me in a tux. (Photo: Jessica Fokides)
THEO TAKES OVER SAMSON THE DOOD HEY! I’m Samson. You may recognize me from Instagram’s “Samson the Dood.” Evidently Mom posts photos of me from her phone onto a “social media site” called “Instagram” and people “follow” me. I have no idea what any of this means. All I know is that I get to wear shades and swimsuits and - get this - I even have a tuxedo! I look quite dashing in it. A couple of years ago I had a litter of puppies and Mom and Dad kept two of them. We… they… named them Charley and Shea. They’re fluffy and curly just like me and when we walk around we look like a pack of anthropomorphic teddy bears or large mop-heads. She threw them into the photos. Then six months later my parents bring home Theo. Theo is a “human,” just like Mom and Dad. If I’m being honest, it’s an odd-looking breed. They only have fur on their heads and look kind of like hairless cats. 38
Westport Lifestyle | August 2021
Me and Theo. (Photo: Mindy Briar)
THEO IS A “HUMAN,” JUST LIKE MOM AND DAD. IF I’M BEING HONEST, IT’S AN ODD-LOOKING BREED. THEY ONLY HAVE FUR ON THEIR HEADS AND LOOK KIND OF LIKE HAIRLESS CATS. BUT GOLDEN DOODLES DON’T JUDGE - SUUM QUIQUE AND ALL THAT. PLUS, THEY FEED US.
Me and caffeine. Kids are exhausting. (Photo: Jessica Fokides)
Then came "human" Theo. Instagram crushed on this photo. (Photo: Jessica Fokides)
CONTINUED >
CityLifestyle.com/Westport
39
LOCAL LIMELIGHT (CONTINUED) I guess Theo is reading. I can't really tell. (Photo: Jessica Fokides)
(Photo: Mindy Briar)
A more recent photo of Theo. Hairless cat, right? (Photo: Jessica Fokides)
3 Doods, a baby and a teepee. (Photo: Jessica Fokides)
Me and my two doods, Charley and Shea. (Photo: Jessica Fokides)
(Photo: Mindy Briar)
Wait - where are they going? (Photo: Mindy Briar) 40
Westport Lifestyle | August 2021
But golden doodles don’t judge - suum quique and all that. Plus, they feed us. When people visit us doods, we shake like furry jello salads and yell “Bark bark bark!” Which, if any human cared to Google translate means, “We love you, please stay with us forever.” They rarely do. Fortunately doods have short memories. Okay… what was I talking about? Oh yes! Theo! So three months after Theo arrives, Mom takes a video of me and him snuggling. She posts it and people love it so much it goes “viral.” A famous person named “Ellen” puts it on her social media feed (I guess people eat social media, too) and something called MasterCard uses it for their commercial. Right after that Dad starts staying home all day and we get lots of walks and meet lots of other dogs out walking and I’m thinking the world is finally perfect. Turns out, it’s a “pandemic” and I’m not supposed to love it. It’s hard for me to scale back my joy, but I tried… not that anyone noticed or gave me treats for my heroic efforts. Uch. Human breed. Anyhoo, my point is that people were at home and scared and clicked on “Instagram.” People from all over the “world” commented that Mom’s posts of us doods and Theo made them happy and it was “therapeutic” for them. I’m all like, “We need more photos of me in my tux,” but Mom never bothers to Google translate when I speak.
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Now we’ve racked up over a million followers and a bunch of our cuddle videos have gone viral. Mom says that we’re popular because of timing - she just happened to post the right thing during a pandemic. But I know it’s because she’s smart and funny and always takes us on fun trips. She’s also doesn’t make us sell stuff or do stuff for money the way some people do on “Instagram.” We’re just a regular family
mindy.wolkstein@raveis.com mindywolkstein.raveis.com 203.216.1287
who loves each other and who’ll pose for a photo if treats are involved. @samsonthedood
47 Riverside Avenue | Westport, CT 06880 CityLifestyle.com/Westport
41
HEALTHY LIFESTYLE
Post-Baby Body ARTICLE ROBIN MOYER CHUNG
A BIT ABOUT MOMMY MAKEOVERS
42
EVERY ACTION HAS AN OPPOSITE AND EQUAL
(MMs) to deal with exactly your situation. Dr. O’Connell (Dr.
REACTION. The “action” is typically pretty sweet. The
O), who performs MMs regularly and who has published on
“reaction,” not so much given that it’s the polar opposite
the subject for Journal, Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, indicates,
of what what you wanted. For instance, a woman’s body
“It involves, at the minimum, an abdominoplasty and breast
creates amazing babies, then reacts with loose, sagging
reduction, augmentation, or lift.” The procedure can also rec-
stuff that she may or may not heroically choose to live
tify a litany of other cosmetic post-pregnancy woes, such as
with for the rest of her life.
“skin overhang” and “diastasis recti.”
If you prefer a pre-baby body, you’re not alone. Plastic sur-
So, what is an abdominoplasty? First, it’s a tummy tuck.
geons have cleverly coined the term “Mommy Makeovers”
Second, it involves an incision near the bikini line and
Westport Lifestyle | August 2021
around the belly button (umbilicus). Excess skin and fat is removed, the abdominal area may be adjusted for aesthetic reasons and muscles are usually tightened. If necessary, Dr. O performs liposuction. Historically, abdominoplasties have required drains which can
simply due to the geometry of the design. The adage ‘hip-to-hip’
trap bacteria and cause infection. For safer, faster healing and less
for tummy tuck scars applies almost exclusively to ‘full’ abdom-
scarring, Dr. O developed the BAND Abdominoplasty (Bidirectional,
inoplasties. The type of abdominoplasty (mini, modified, or full) is
Absorbable, No Drain) which uses absorbable Quill™ sutures that
determined by vertical height skin removal. Most moms have full
don’t require knots and eliminates the need for drains.
(probably about 85% or more) because they need them.”
When the skin on the abdomen is removed, the stretch marks
It’s not all cosmetic. About 1/3 of the women who come to Dr.
go with it. If you have any marks remaining elsewhere you’d like to
O have true hernias near the belly button. These can cause pain,
diminish, Dr. O recommends microneedling with or without radiofre-
nausea, or worse if not treated. During the MMs, Dr. O works “with
quency technology and some light-based technology.
a wonderful female general surgeon, Westport resident Dr. Roselle
To learn more about breast augmentation, reduction, and lift, go to PlasticSurgeryCT.com.
Crombie, and she repairs these hernias while I do the tummy tuck.” Despite its cutesy moniker, the MM is 5 - 8 hours of serious surgery.
Every effort is made to minimize scarring, although some can’t be
According to Dr. O, “Because of the added surgical and anesthesia
avoided. Dr. O explains, “Some scar patterns result in longer scars
time, added magnitude of the procedures when combined, and other CONTINUED >
Dr. Joseph O’Connell (Photo: Melanie Lust)
CityLifestyle.com/Westport
43
HEALTHY LIFESTYLE (CONTINUED)
It’s not all cosmetic. About 1/3 of the women who come to Dr. O have true hernias near the belly button. These can cause pain, nausea, or worse if not treated. poorly understood factors, the risks of combination procedures are
Additional procedures put you at greater risk of venous thromboem-
significantly greater than the risks of each procedure.”
bolic issues (deep vein blood clot that travels to the lungs). Not fun.
Why do it all at once? Three reasons: 1. Cost savings on surgeon,
Also, don’t bargain-hunt for a plastic surgeon. Find an A-list sur-
anesthesia, and facility fees (you’ll need the savings for pre-school
geon with years of experience who’ll give you realistic expectations.
tuition) 2. Less recovery time than for two separate procedures (you have kids, down-time is now a luxury), 3. Satisfaction that comes from dramatic results (positive drama. Not “child screaming” drama.) But if you’re thinking, “If I’m going under for that long, I might as well throw in a necklift and fat transfer onto the pile” - don’t. 44
Westport Lifestyle | August 2021
For more information visit PlasticSurgeryCT.com
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45
OUR TOWN ARTICLE ROBIN MOYER CHUNG
ADDISON MOORE PRESIDENT AND FOUNDER, UP|NEXT
His idea for Up|Next: “Up|Next is a response to a need. We live in a privileged area so there’s lots of organizations teaching kids about the value of community service and many educating about the fundamentals of business and entrepreneurialism. But no one was addressing the obvious intersection of the two. So I created Up|Next with the simple goal of teaching teens how to do good while doing well.” His inspiration: “Growing up in NYC, I realized food insecurity is a major problem. As a kid whenever I passed someone on the street I always gave them whatever cash I had on hand, but I actually committed to addressing it formally at age seven with my first business Addison’s Cider and Donuts.” Number of members: “As of June 18th there are 32 teen members (including myself) and 5 incredible adult advisory board members.” Their projects: “Despite being founded less than half a year ago, we’ve partnered with some amazing organizations like MoCA, Westport Library, and Teacher Marketplace, which has allowed us to put on four major events including a virtual elevator pitch workshop and a teen job fair.” Goals for Up|Next: “My hope is to take it to a national level. This fall we’re hoping to create Up|Next clubs in schools around the county to give teens easy access to all our offerings. Although Up|Next itself will stay private, we see collaborating with schools and local organizations as a necessary next step.”
46
Westport Lifestyle | August 2021
Kids of Westport
DYLAN JOHNSON FUNDRAISER AND DESIGNER OF THE LOCALLY-ICONIC YOU BE YOU T-SHIRT. About the You Be You tagline: “At some point I heard someone say ‘you do you’ and that made me think of ‘you be you’. Kids should be able to express themselves as they see themselves, not as what is expected of them.” On the shirt’s surprising popularity: “In one night I think we reached [her’s and her parent’s] sales goal. When I first launched it, I think my parents thought they would be the only ones buying the shirts! I loved seeing [them] in town and at elementary school spirit day.” “This year we sold over 535 t-shirts and mugs and we raised $5,700! [for charity]” Her future plans: “I want to continue to help the community and to get involved with groups helping younger people. Maybe to help start some You Be You spirit days at other schools, too. I think it’s so important for kids to feel good about expressing themselves as they are. Little things like a t-shirt that says ‘You Be You’ helps kids see that.”
CONTINUED >
CityLifestyle.com/Westport
47
OUR TOWN (CONTINUED)
CAMRYN NAZEM OWNER OF STACKED BY CAMRYN, BEADED BRACELETS AND MASK CHAINS (WITH MOM, RANDI NAZEM) Business idea: “My cousin started a beading business before I started mine. For my birthday she got me beads. I started making bracelets for friends and family. The beads became expensive, so I decided to start a company and sell them.” RN: “She watches Shark Tank almost every night.” How it started: “Mom helped me. I did beading and she would tie it [apply super glue to the knot].” RN: “We made this mask chain and posted it on Instagram and it went overboard! Last summer she got hundreds of mask chain orders. We’d wake up and go straight to the basement to bead.” Cost of a bracelet: “A bracelet costs $10 for kids and more for adults. Mask chains cost $15 and every item is personalized. You can even buy a BFF set of 2 bracelets, keep one and give one to your best friend.” Customization process: “I ask what colors do you want? Do you want your name on it? We can put on charms and star beads.” RN: “We have tons of beads, like sports beads, hearts, stars and more. Adults like the gold ball beads - they’re better quality than the kids’ - with their kid’s names and they buy a few and stack them.” Her creative process: “Sometimes you can just use creativity and do what you want. If it doesn’t turn out good, then try again and don’t give up.”
48
Westport Lifestyle | August 2021
BEN LORENZ BEN LORENZ SHOES, CUSTOM DECORATED SHOES His idea: “I got Vans and thought I should spice them up a bit because plain white is boring. So I ordered paint pens and drew a replication of the Great Wave design by Hokusai.” What he draws: “I’ve customized shoes with Keith Haring drawings, famous paintings like The Scream and Starry Night, record albums, commemorative shoes like RBG Converse high tops, puppies, sushi, logos, geometric designs. Pretty much anything that people request I can draw.” Beyond shoes: “I’m thinking about decorating jean jackets and jeans. I’m open to creating custom and personalized gear that are one-of-a-kind.” Sundry information: “Prices range depending on design. Smaller and simpler designs range from $20-45 and more intricate designs can be up to $100. Typically I order the shoes and the customer tells me which style, brand and size.” On expanding business: “I’ve thought about expanding some of the ordering or accounting aspects of my business and have had friends offer to help. With regard to the design, I plan to continue being the sole artist. I want to make sure the quality is consistent.”
CityLifestyle.com/Westport
49
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LOCALLY OWNED Audrey Paul M.D. Ph.D.
ARTICLE ROBIN MOYER CHUNG
Warning: Concussion WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW
WITH SUMMER ACTIVITY COMES INJURY. Among them, concussions. Left untreated, concussions can cause long-term discomfort or worse. Everyone should be aware of these damaging head-knocks and know what to do if they suspect they or their child may have one. We asked Dr. Audrey Paul, founder and director of Advanced Concussion Solutions in Westport and Garden City, LI, and author of Concussion: Your Game Plan for Recovery, for more information. WLM: WHAT, EXACTLY, IS A CONCUSSION AND WHY IS IT DANGEROUS? ALL I KNOW IS THAT IT’S A BAD HEAD INJURY (AND, YES, I COULD GOOGLE IT...) DR. AUDREY PAUL: Concussion originates from the Latin word
Dr. Audrey Paul, M.D., Ph. D.
concutere - to shake or clash together. Technically, a concussion is considered to be a type of mild traumatic brain injury; a functional not a structural brain injury. This means that concussions cannot be diagnosed by CT scan or MRI. Concussions result in cellular injury that slows down neuronal function. Appropriately diagnosing and treating a concussed patient can make the difference between rapid return to work, school, and athletics or months and even years of symptoms. WLM: DID YOU HAVE ANY PERSONAL EXPERIENCE THAT MADE YOU WANT TO BECOME A CONCUSSION EXPERT? AP: When my son turned 8, we joined the ranks of crazy hockey parents who wake up before dawn and drive hundreds of miles to freeze on ice rinks. The first year in CT, my son experienced a concussion while playing hockey. He slept for 15 hours a day and missed 2 weeks of school. The stress of not knowing when he would be better, and not knowing where to turn motivated me to open a concussion practice in Westport.
Audrey Paul M.D. Ph.D.
WLM: YOU HAVE SO MANY QUALIFICATIONS - YOU CAN
Founder and Director
DO ANYTHING. WHY CONCUSSIONS?
Advanced Concussion Solutions LLC
AP: I have been practicing pediatric emergency medicine for
Assistant Professor Pediatric Emergency Medicine,
over 20 years. Emergency medicine speaks to the ADHD, imme-
NYU Long Island
diate gratification side of my brain, and concussion management
Author, Concussion: Your Game Plan for Recovery
satisfies the part of me that still craves continuity of care.
AdvancedConcussionSolutions.com
52
Westport Lifestyle | August 2021
Audrey Paul M.D. Ph.D.
WLM: WHAT SHOULD WE LOOK FOR WHEN
concussion, I think the biggest concern is CTE or
WE SUSPECT OUR CHILD HAS A CONCUSSION?
chronic traumatic encephalopathy. CTE is thought
AP: The most common symptom is headache.
to be due to an accumulation of sub-concussive
Other symptoms include fogginess, excessive sleep-
blows that occur over a lifetime (which explains
iness, change in mood or behavior, visual complaints,
why we see this more in professional football play-
difficulties with balance, blurry vision, double vision,
ers or hockey players).
nausea or vomiting. People can develop concussion symptoms 24-48 hours after the injury.
WLM: CAN YOU GET A CONCUSSION IN WAYS OTHER THAN BANGING YOUR
WLM: UNTIL WE’RE ABLE TO GET HIM/HER TO A DOCTOR, WHAT SHOULD WE DO AND WHY?
HEAD AGAINST SOMETHING? AP: Absolutely. Concussions can be caused by
AP: Rest for the first 24-48 hours. I generally advise
a direct or indirect blow to the head. I’ve seen con-
no video games or phone scrolling because it can
cussions from athletes that were kicked in the jaw or
exacerbate symptoms. But taking away a teenager’s
punched in the nose. You can also experience concus-
phone can result in isolation and depression. I recom-
sion-like symptoms from a whiplash injury.
mend patients can text their friends but avoid scrolling and excessive computer screen time. As long as an activity (like TV) doesn’t worsen symptoms it’s fine. And no sports until your child is cleared by a physician!
WLM: ARE THERE ANY NEW METHODS AVAILABLE TO DIAGNOSE CONCUSSION? AP: In the past, ImPACT testing was widely used for baseline testing and concussion diagnosis. Unfortunately, there are validity issues with ImPACT
WLM: WHAT ARE THE LONG-TERM EFFECTS
testing such as test/retest variability in scores and the
OF AN UNTREATED CONCUSSION AND
potential to sandbag the test. Current methods now
A TREATED CONCUSSION?
include a multifaceted approach that evaluates eye
AP: Post concussion symptoms last more than 3
tracking, balance, exertional tolerance, memory, and
weeks and persistent post concussion symptoms
symptom scores. We’re now working with a cutting
last over 3 months. Earlier proactive intervention
edge technology offered by Brainscope that provides
decreases the likelihood of developing post con-
objective diagnostic information - taking the mystery
cussion syndrome. In terms of long term effects of
out of whether someone is concussed or not!
C o n c u s s i o n s r e s u lt i n c e l l u l a r i n j u r y t h at s l o w s down neuronal function. CityLifestyle.com/Westport
53
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CityLifestyle.com/Westport
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ANIMAL KINGDOM Pink puppy.
ARTICLE ROBIN MOYER CHUNG
THE AMAZING DEAF, BLIND, PINK DOG
56
Westport Lifestyle | August 2021
The Little Puppy That Could
Today, P ig let is a n i nter nat iona l supersta r w ith a n
educat iona l i nclusiv it y prog ra m for k ids a nd a n env ia ble I nsta g ra m fol low i ng.
PIGLET IS A DEAF, BLIND, PINK DOG. He was born into a
As the visit went on, I felt a level of pride that could not be
“hoarding situation” of 37 dogs in one small Georgia apartment.
put into words. Throughout our time in the classroom, Piglet was
He has a hero, though: Westport veterinarian Melissa Shapiro.
calm and regal, demonstrating with poise and elegance all the
She adopted him into her family and pack of six other dogs.
things he could do. The Piglet Show, as we call our performance
Today, Piglet is an international superstar with an educational
of tap-signal tricks, was a smash hit. His three sister dogs, whom I
inclusivity program for kids and an enviable Instagram following.
would always prep by telling them, “You’re going to be in the show
Through him, thousands of schoolchildren are learning about
today!” (and who would really get into the scene), did exactly that.
overcoming differences and developing a positive “piglet mind-
The children stayed seated in sheer amazement, barely making
set.” He’s also raising money for special-needs animal shelters.
a sound, so as not to miss anything. We began with the basics,
Now he has his own book and we’ve included excerpts below.
demonstrating “sit”—which each dog would do, one by one. I would
With a mother’s love and a strong support system, neither hoard-
say, “Zoey, sit!” and she would. “Susie, sit!” and “Evie, sit!” Next, I
ing nor disability can keep an exceptional dog down.
said, “Sit, Piglet!” even though we all knew he couldn’t hear me, but
Excerpt from the prologue of PIGLET: The Unexpected Story of
at the same time I tapped him lightly on his lower back, right above
a Deaf, Blind, Pink Puppy and His Family by Melissa Shapiro with
his tail. Piggy responded to this familiar tap signal with an impec-
Mim Eichler Rivas:
cable sit, lifting his head for the cookie that he knew was coming. CONTINUED >
CityLifestyle.com/Westport
57
ANIMAL KINGDOM (CONTINUED)
Just when you th i n k you
ca n’t open you r hea r t a ny more tha n you a l ready
have, someth i ng ca n hap pen to help you d iscover
that you have more to g ive.
“Piglet can do just what the other dogs can do!” one little boy exclaimed. A chorus of agreement followed. In those moments, I like to think this book was
58
have more to give. And what you get from being open to the unexpected in animals and in humans is the greatest gift you can ever receive.
born a reminder to the world of how much we can
There’s a Buddhist saying most of us have heard at one
accomplish by caring for our fellow beings, human
point or another that “when the student is ready, the teacher
and nonhuman, whether disabled or not, or simply an
will appear.” In my experiences and observations — certainly
individual searching for a little extra consideration and
with musical training and in my educational/professional
kindness. There will always be too many abandoned
journey — that proverb has been right on the money. But
and neglected animals in need of rescue or just over-
with Piglet, the unexpected twist was that ours was a case of
looked and unwanted. But Piglet definitely came into
“when the teacher is ready, the student will appear.”
our lives to teach us lessons. Just when you think you
Piglet, the deaf blind pink puppy, was that very student
can’t open your heart any more than you already have,
who showed up with such a capacity to learn, he put me
something can happen to help you discover that you
on notice.
Westport Lifestyle | August 2021
Piglet and his hero/ mom Melissa Shaprio.
Masks required
@childsposewestport
GET INSPIRED
How did it happen? How did Piglet make his way into
EAT + DRINK
our lives, and was now getting ready to spark a global movement? The craziest part of the story is that, statistically speaking, it’s a miracle that he even made it into our care alive. That’s the story I decided to write that day in Plainville, about a miracle puppy who dared to live.
SHOP LOCAL
Copyright © 2021 by Melissa Shapiro. From PIGLET: The Unexpected Story of a Deaf, Blind, Pink Puppy and His Family by Melissa Shapiro with Mim Eichler Rivas. Reprinted by permission of Atria Books, a Division of Simon & Schuster, Inc. For sale August 3, 2021.
City Lifestyle YOUR DIGITAL DESTINATION FOR LOCAL LIVING
CityLifestyle.com/Westport
59
INSPIRED BY
Jenny and Matt in NYC.
THE KLEINER T R I PL E T S
Abby, Megan, Jenny, and Sam Kleiner.
GRADUATING SENIORS AND THEIR INCREDIBLE PARENTS Megan, Abby, and Sam.
60
Westport Lifestyle | August 2021
ARTICLE ROBIN MOYER CHUNG
Jenny and Matt
I MET THE KLEINER TRIPLETS, ABBY, MEGAN, AND
my deep belief that I am the absolute center of the uni-
SAM, WHEN THEY WERE IN 1ST GRADE IN 2008.
verse.” I figured if Jenny wanted me to know about her
They were in my Sunday school class and it was really
husband she’d tell me. But she didn’t. As the center of my
cool for me because I’d never known triplets before.
universe, I overlooked the fact that her own routine and
I taught them Sunday school until middle school. I watched a lot of kids grow up during those years (I will never teach 3rd grade boys again) and those three were rock-solid good kids the entire time. Their mother, Jennifer (Jenny) Kleiner, and her mother,
universe may have precluded her need to inform me or, rather, everyone with whom she may come into contact. Now, I don’t condone voicing every query batting around one’s brain. But they seemed a stable, happy family so, well, I finally asked.
Barbara Butler, brought them to church each week. Jenny
Turns out, their story is heart-breaking, courageous,
was always upbeat and garrulous, their grandmother
and amazing. Further, they generously agreed to let me
friendly and open. I, like most congregants, assumed the
share it with readers.
father didn’t attend because he was working or was a
Matthew Kleiner (Matt) was diagnosed with hemo-
different religion. After a few years I realized there must
philia in his youth. When he was 12, in the early 1980’s, he
be more to their story. But I didn’t ask.
learned he had received a transfusion with HIV-tainted
The triplets graduated from high school this June and
blood. At that time not much was known about HIV.
will soon be unleashed into the world and given the free-
In 1985, Ryan White, a teenager with hemophilia, also
dom to become adults.
acquired HIV through a contaminated blood transfusion.
In David Foster Wallace’s famous 2005 graduation
He was kicked out of school and died several years later.
speech, “What is Water,”* he addresses this passage
To avoid the stigma and discrimination, Matt and his
into adulthood. Specifically, he warns that our individual
family kept his diagnosis secret. Matt completed high
universe and daily routine often detracts from empa-
school and enrolled in Cornell University in 1989.
thetic relationships, skewing our awareness of others.
He continued his silence even as he witnessed the
David says “… [the] most obvious, important realities are
escalation of prejudice and misinformation on and off
often the ones that are hardest to see and talk about,” and
campus. But by his junior year he realized people’s
“…everything in my own immediate experience supports
ignorance could put them in danger of contracting HIV CONTINUED >
CityLifestyle.com/Westport
61
INSPIRED BY (CONTINUED)
Jenny & Matt on their wedding day.
and he knew he was in a unique position to help
he was adorable,” smiles Jen. One day toward
protect them. With the support of peers and fac-
the beginning of their shared class the professor
ulty he announced he was HIV positive.
asked students to “Look to your left. Now look to
He developed a “safe sex” program with the health department at Cornell in which he shared
As the prof prophesied, Jenny and Matt wed
his story and educated audiences on facts and
after law school in 1997. They went through sev-
misconceptions about HIV. Audiences loved and
eral rounds of IVF with a doctor who specialized
learned from his presentations. Sharon Dittman,
in HIV-discordant couples. Finally, in 2002 Jenny
Associate Director of Cornell Health Services,
became pregnant. Several weeks into the preg-
wrote “His matter-of-fact approach, comedian’s
nancy they had an ultrasound which revealed
timing, sex-educator’s frankness, counselor’s
three beating hearts. Matt called out, “Now we’ve
sensitivity, insider’s knowledge of Cornell student
got a basketball team!”
life, and occasional well-placed impatience made him an extraordinary educator.”
62
your right. Two of you are going to get married.”
At 28 weeks she checked into the hospital as a precaution. On New Year’s Day 2003 she
After graduating in 1993 he entered NYU Law
delivered the babies due to her preeclampsia.
and continued educating students and people
They were 10 weeks early and sent to the NICU
around the country.
for two months for different reasons.
Jenny Butler met Matt during their first year
In mid-February, while the babies were still in
of law school, in a Constitutional Law class. “He
the NICU, Matt became weak and confused due
was very outgoing, I was more quiet. I thought
to his liver and was admitted to the same hospital.
Westport Lifestyle | August 2021
Jenny was concerned but he had been sick before and always recovered. “We visited
Garden City NY • Westport CT
the kids a lot in the hospital in January and February until he got admitted into a dif-
We Offer the Following Services
ferent hospital,” says Jenny. “Once he was admitted into the [other] hospital I spent
•
most of the time at his hospital because I knew the kids were very well taken care
•
of.” While he remained in the hospital, the
•
babies began coming home one at a time. But Matt never came home to join •
slept on his hospital bed with him. The
•
next morning she lay beside him when he died of liver failure due to hepatitis C.
•
“He was so full of life. He got sick but
Sports physicals for schools
•
Sports clearance
Concussion Diagnosis with Brainscope EEG
Comprehensive, Evidence Based Treatment
Return to School, Work, and Sports Guidance •
he always got better,” Jenny recalls. to get up in the morning and keep going,
Concussion Baseline Testing •
them. On the night of February 26, Jenny
The triplets “were a lifeline, a reason
Educational Programs
In Person and Telemedicine Evaluations
Summer camp and college telehealth evaluations •
says Jenny, then adds, “Sam looks a lot like
Group rates for baseline testing
him, he has some of his characteristics.” With a baby nurse and many, many
•
Director and founder of Advanced Concussion Solutions
•
Double boarded in pediatrics and pediatric emergency medicine
•
Assistant professor in pediatric emergency medicine at NYU LI School of Medicine
•
Undergraduate degree in biochemistry from Harvard College
•
Medical and residency training at Mount Sinai and fellowship training at Columbia Presbyterian
•
Author of Amazon Best Seller “Concussion - Your Game Plan For Recovery”
•
Past section chair of the Pediatric Section of the American College of Emergency Physicians
•
Lecturer at sports teams and medical grand rounds
friends and relatives, Jenny continued practicing law and raising their babies. She eventually moved to Westport to be near her mother (her father died in 1994.) The two of them raised the triplets, involving them in church, school activities, and sports. Uncles and grandfathers took the girls to father/daughter dances. Neighborhood dads took Sam to games with their kids. This fall Abby heads to UConn, Megan to UMich, and Sam to Princeton. When we peer outside of our universe and become truly aware of others, we
Dr. Audrey Paul MD.PHD
learn there are incredible people who do incredible things, like admitting they having a “terrifying” disease so they can help others avoid it, and raising three children who would make any parent proud. *Commencement speech to Kenyon College Class of 2005.
Garden City Location 901 Stewart Ave. Suite 212 Garden City NY, 11530 516-726-9884 kidsconcuss@gmail.com
Westport Location 127 Kings Hwy North Westport CT. 06880 203-936-6805 kidsconcuss@gmail.com CityLifestyle.com/Westport
63
1 UNFIT FOR PRINT MoCA Westport
AUGUST
LIFESTYLE CALENDAR
Unfit For Print is a dual exhibition fea-
turing the selected works of Noah Fox and Patrick Perry.
Fox is a Westport-born and raised artist whose Altered Books Series is gen-
erated from a fascination with books, typography, and theoretical conceptions of embodiment and identity
persisting within our culture. Patrick Perry’s Soft Blows Series relies on
cross-stitch his body of artwork to
deconstruct derogatory homosexual epithets. Through August 21.
6 FAMILY & MATRIMONIAL LAW Exceptional Representation Customized to Fulfill the Unique Needs of Your Family
THE LONE BELLOW Levitt Pavilion
Half Moon Light is an artistic triumph worked toward for years, earned not by individual posturing, but by collective determination and natural
We work closely with our clients through
growth. With earthy three-part har-
Litigation, Arbitration, Mediation and Collaborative Divorce.
monies and songwriting as provocative as it is honest, the trio made up of Brian, lead vocalist Zach Williams, and
Experience guiding people through complex family matters.
multi-instrumentalist
Kanene
Donehey Pipkin creates sparks that make a stranger’s life matter or bring our sense of childlike wonder roaring back. LevittPavilion.com
6 MUSIC ON CHURCH LANE Church Lane, Westport
40 nights of music on Church Lane continues every Friday and Saturday night through August, 6:00-9:00 p.m. (Please consider donating to add support to this summer sched-
(203) 222-8686 | conlonmcglynn.com 222 Riverside Avenue Westport, Connecticut 06880 64
Westport Lifestyle | August 2021
ule of professional musicians from the local area.)
AUGUST
7 BACK TO THE 80'S WITH JESSIE'S GIRL! Art Park at Wall Street, 23 Isaacs St., Norwalk
There is no decade like the Eighties and no party like THE BACK TO THE EIGHTIES
SHOW
with
JESSIE’S
GIRL. So throw on your best neon, use extra hair spray on that hair and head to LE POISSON ROUGE every Saturday - because its time to party like it’s 1989! WallStreetTheater.com
10 NATIONAL CONNECTICUT DAY
National Connecticut Day recognizes the contributions of the fifth state to join the United States of America. Connecticut’s small but full landscape holds countless revolutionary stories and adventures along
New
England’s
National
Scenic Trail. Through every season and every era, there’s something for every generation to enjoy!
14 SUMMER SHOPPING DAY! Downtown Westport
Enjoy spacious and safe shopping outdoors Westport!
throughout Closed
Downtown
streets
and
accessible parking will allow you to roam freely and enjoy special offerings from many local merchants! CONTINUED >
CityLifestyle.com/Westport
65
14
AUGUST
LIFESTYLE CALENDAR
MUSIC IN THE MEADOW WITH MIGHTY MYSTIC Lachat Town Farm,
106 Godfrey Road West, Weston BARBARA BROSS
ALEXANDER CHINGAS & DOUG BROSS
Now more than ever, a house becomes a home.
Mighty Mystic (born Kevin Mark Holness) is one of the leaders in the
U.S. Reggae scene and one of the
more prolific artists to develop out-
side of Jamaica. He has gripped the scene with ferocious conviction and
an ambition worthy to be mentioned among the greats.
14
HIDDEN HISTORY, BLACK STORIES Westport Museum’s brick walk along Myrtle Avenue
FEATURED HOME
Traverse downtown Westport and
32 Edgewater Hillside, Westport, Connecticut 122+/- Feet of Direct Waterfront | $2,799,000
learn its hidden African American his-
... BROSS CHINGAS BROSS R E A L
E S T A T E
tory,
based
on
the
Museum’s
award-winning exhibit Remembered: The History of African Americans in Westport. Trained guides reveal the untold stories of the region’s Black community
from
colonial
times
through today. From enslaved people
EXPERIENCE IS PRICELESS...
The Bross Chingas Bross Team’s unmatched track record, and #1 leadership position in the sale of Westport & Weston homes for the past eight consecutive years, means that we are best equipped to help you navigate the market. Our goal remains to provide you with the information you need to make the right choices. We are skillfully leveraging technology and global marketing, with a special focus on the New York market, to facilitate the sale and purchase of properties for our clientele.
Contact us for a confidential consultation to learn how we can meet your needs, working within guidelines for the well-being of our community.
to soldiers, sailors, activists, artists, and respected citizens, this rich history is deeply explored through existing buildings and long destroyed sites.
17 MIDDLE SCHOOL ACADEMIC SKILLS Westport Library
Are you entering middle school in the fall and concerned about being organized for different classes? Are you
Barbara Bross ∙ Alexander Chingas ∙ Doug Bross Jenny Walsh ∙ Jessica Brookbanks ∙ Tom Kelley ∙ Mike Gefen ∙ Elise Larrabure Girasole
203.454.8000 | Info@BrossChingas.com 355 Riverside Avenue, Westport, CT 06880 BrossChingas BrossChingasBross
already in middle school and need help getting organized? In this class, you will learn organizational tricks and tips to keep you on top of your game all year long. E-mail mparmelee@westportlibrary.
WWW.BROSSCHINGAS.COM
org or 203.291.4815 by 2 pm on Tuesday, August 10.
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Westport Lifestyle | August 2021
AUGUST
17 CAMP EXPLORE: ADVANCED CODING - LIGHTLOGO WITH JOSH BURKER Westport Library
In this 1-day on-site workshop coders will be introduced to LightLogo, a microworld where we make a variety of light patterns with only 10 lines of code. This program encourages algorithmic thinking - learning how to express a sequence of things that express itself over time. WestportLibrary.org
21 WESTPORT VICTORY CUP POLO MATCH & HOT AIR BALLOON FESTIVAL Fairfield Hunt Club
The Victory Cup has become known as “America’s Polo Match!” Beyond horses, the helicopter rides and Hot Air Balloon rides are one of the Victory Cup’s top attractions and should be purchased in advance. Kid and pet friendly, bring the entire family. The Victory Cup has something for everyone and at most price points. VictoryCup.org
Would you like to get in touch with us? We would love to hear from you! Contact us at CityLifestyle.com/ Westport using the Get In Touch link and let us know what you think. CityLifestyle.com/Westport
67
B R E AT H TA K I N G WA T E R V I E W S YEAR ROUND 1121 Sasco Hill Road Fairfield, Connecticut $5,250,00 6 Bed 5 Full Bath 2 Half Bath 8,815 Sq Ft 2.32 Acres 1 1 2 1 SA S CO H I L L R OA D.COM
A PA R A D I S E C A R V E D O U T O F A H I L LT O P
96 Laurel Brook Lane Fairfield, Connecticut $4,250,00 5 Bed 5 Full Bath 1 Half Bath 8,099 Sq Ft 4.25 Acres 9 6 LAU R E L B RO O K LA N E .COM
T H E C I N DY R A N E Y & CO. D I F F E R E N C E We recognize that selling your home and selecting the right team to do so are incredibly meaningful decisions. You are trusting someone with one of your most valuable assets. At Cindy Raney & Co., we guide you throughout the entire process of selling your property. Passionate about our work and highly dedicated to our clients, we have a proven track record of providing an exceptional experience and outstanding results. It’s why our clients continue to rave about the Cindy Raney & Co. difference. We’d love to represent you and put our efforts behind selling your property.
P OW E R E D BY
2 0 3 - 2 5 7- 8 3 2 0 C I N DY R A N E Y.CO M
REALTY REPORT NEIGHBORHOOD
WESTPORTREALTY REPORT
ORIGINAL PRICE
SOLD PRICE
%SOLD/ORIG
DOM
BDRMS
BATHS
25 Surf Road
$ 6,750,000
$ 6,500,000
96.3%
183
4
5.5
18 Mayflower Pkwy
$ 5,295,000
$ 5,050,000
95.4%
33
6
7.5
15 Brookside Drive
$ 3,475,000
$ 4,838,225
139.2%
375
6
7.5
60 Compo Mill Cove
$ 3,299,000
$ 3,200,000
97.0%
66
3
4.0
46 Old Hill Road
$ 2,999,000
$ 2,975,000
99.2%
32
6
5.0
4 Caccamo Lane
$ 2,999,000
$ 2,900,000
96.7%
35
5
5.5
27 Bermuda Road
$ 2,899,000
$ 2,800,000
96.6%
76
4
4.0
8 Murvon Court
$ 2,499,000
$ 2,499,000
100.0%
167
3
3.5
43 Gorham Avenue
$ 2,450,000
$ 2,485,000
101.4%
12
5
4.5
11 Windy Hill Road
$ 1,899,000
$ 2,355,000
124.0%
8
6
5.0
Source: MLS Top 10 Listings by Sold Price in Westport (6/1/2021 - 6/21/2021)
OVERALL WESTPORT MARKET TRENDS FOR $2MM+ THROUGH JUNE 2021
3 Keene Road | Westport, CT | Sold $2,199,000
• Compared to one year ago through June, several important real estate metrics highlight the continued strength of the Westport market: • Percentage of homes selling at or over asking: 61.0% • Average Days on the Market: -93% • Average Closing Price: +7.2% (on top of a 12.7% increase vs. 2019) • Total number of Homes Sold: +144% • Homeowners are selling their properties for more money in less time • With limited inventory, buyers are paying a premium to secure a property KEY TAKEAWAY It continues to be an ideal time to sell your property. Homes priced properly and staged to sell are moving the fastest and often over asking. Now more than ever, it’s critical that your home is exposed to as many potential buyers as possible. Please call Cindy Raney & Co. today to learn more about the difference we make in successfully helping our clients sell their homes.
C I N DY R A N E Y.CO M
CityLifestyle.com/Westport
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CULINARY CREATIONS
ARTICLE ANGELA PANTALONE
Strawnana Wagsicle Treat ACTUALLY, KIDS MIGHT LIKE THIS, TOO
DURING THE DOG DAYS OF SUMMER, DOGS ENJOY A TREAT JUST AS MUCH AS HUMANS. Here’s a simple recipe from Wag Central’s Wagaloo Café to make a cool treat for your pup. Bonus - kids can make them - and eat them, too!
Strawnana Wagsicle Treat + 1 Banana + 2 cups Strawberries + 1 1/2 cups Greek Plains Yogurt + 1 Tablespoon Honey
In a bowl, mash banana until smooth. Slice strawberries and blend in blender until smooth. Then add banana, yogurt, and honey and blend until smooth. Pour mixture into ice cube trays or silicone molds, freeze overnight. Store in air tight containers in the freezer.
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Westport Lifestyle | August 2021