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JA N UA RY 2 022 | T H E H E A LT H + W E LLN E S S I S S U E

WHEN LOCAL KNOWLEDGE MEETS BUSINESS EXPERIENCE, YOU WIN.

Visit us today for all of your banking and lending needs.

Bank smart. Bank local. Bank well. 100 Post Road East, Westport CT (203) 652-2710

mybankwell.com Member FDIC | Equal Housing Lender

Join the pickleball craze!

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T O P 1 % O F R E A LT O R S N AT I O N W I D E

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HA P PY N EW YEA R A special “thank you” to our clients who entrust us with one of their most meaningful personal decisions – the sale or purchase of their home. We are grateful to have participated in so many personal journeys. We’re also honored to be recognized as one of the top 1% real estate teams nationally. Thank you, again, to our wonderful clients and we look forward to building many new relationships in 2022.

P OW E R E D BY

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LIFESTYLE LETTER

2022

January 2022 PUBLISHER

Marisa MacLean | marisa.maclean@lifestylepubs.com EDITOR

Robin Moyer Chung | robin.chung@lifestylepubs.com

It’s a new year, and that signifies new beginnings and a fresh start. With how busy life becomes, it is nice to be still for a moment and reflect on where we have been, what the past year has taught us, what we want to grow and learn from, and where we want to go from there. The practice of establishing new goals or a resolution for the coming year is something that can help us focus on what is truly a priority or at least what should be. Some of the most popular New Year’s resolutions center around getting healthier and spending more time with the people we cherish. Other goals may be finding ways to help people in need in our town. Whatever your goals may be this year, know that the simple act of making a goal is a great first step. We then just have to move from simply thinking about doing those things and make a daily decision to act on them. Our January issue is dedicated to health and wellness in the New Year: eating right, physical fitness and purposeful connections. Our hope for you in this New Year is one of wellness, health and love. Here's to a healthy and happy 2022!

MARISA MACLEAN, PUBLISHER @WESTPORTLIFESTYLE

EDITOR IAL COOR DINATOR

Sophia Andersen | sophia.andersen@lifestylepubs.com AD DESIGNER

Rachel Chrisman LAYOUT DESIGNER

Sara Minor CONTR IBUTING WR ITER S

Anna Barnes, Dave Briggs, Brandon Epstein, Mark Fisher, Meredith Guinness, Flora Levin, Zac Mathias CONTR IBUTING PHOTOGR APHER S

John Videler, Dasha Nosova, Julia D'Agostino, Billie Weiss

Corporate Team CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Randy Radosevich CHIEF DIGITAL OFFICER Bruce Ianni DIRECTOR OF SOCIAL MEDIA Mindy Hargesheimer ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson AD MANAGER Chad Jensen WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell

Learn how to start your own publication at: citylifestyle.com//franchise

Scan QR code to visit our Instagram CIT YLIFEST YLE.COM/ WESTPORT |

Proverbs 3:5-6 City Lifestyle™ Westport is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Westport area’s 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 City Lifestyle™ Westport is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but

L I F E ST Y LE LE T T E R

the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

HELPING OU R PAT I EN TS LOO K AN D F E E L TH E I R B E ST FO R 8 YEA RS!

Giving you the choices you deserve.

79 South Benson Road Fairfield, CT 06824

203.292.5559 DrChristineGould.com

J A N UA RY 2 0 2 2

inside the issue The Health & Wellness Issue

F E ATU R E D

D E PA RTM E NTS

28 A New Hope

Lifestyle Letter

City Scene

F E ATU R E D

Business Monthly

35 Have Fitness Goal, Will Accomplish

24 Our Town

F E ATU R E D

56 Eat Right

44 Row Impact

60 Self Care

F E ATU R E D

66 Events

50 Westport's Olympic Snowboarder

70 Expert Help

Westport Fertility Team Offers Innovative Help for Families-In-Waiting

Sherpa and Zion Physical Therapy are the Ground Zero for Athletes

Row House Offers a (Great) New Workout

HEA LT H + WELLNES S

28 Healthy Lifestyle

HEA LT H + W E L L N E SS

HEA LT H + WELLNES S LI FE + C U LT U R E

64 Trend Setter

S HO PPI NG

HEA LT H + WELLNE SS

Julia Marino Shreds the Slopes with Fitness, Diet, and Unconditional Love

O N T H E C OV E R

Photography: Dasha Nosova Westport's Julia Marino is a snowboarding champion, Prada Linea Rossa spokesperson, and 2022 Olympic hopeful. Photographed by US elite snowboarders' photographer.

the art of organization Locally Owned, Operated and Custom Manufactured

Visit our showrooms: 100 Wooster Street, Bethel, CT 06801 | 110 Post Rd, Darien CT 06820

203-616-5847 closetfactory.com

Dr. O’Connell is pleased to offer repair of minor injuries for children and adults in the safety of our office. We can be reached 24/7 at (203) 454-0044. (For true emergencies call 911). Dr. O’Connell is pleased to offer repair of minor injuries for children and adults in the safety of our off ice. We can be reached 24/7 at (203) 454-0044. (For true emergencies call 911). We’re not about volume - we’re about quality and because of this we can manage patient flow to optimize your child’s safety and to facilitate a meticulously clean, safe and secure environment. Having been board certif ied in both plastic surgery and general surgery and with 40 years experience managing injuries of all kinds, Dr. O’Connell is your trusted choice when your loved one suffers an injury.

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

J A N UA RY 2 0 2 2

city scene

Where neighbors can see and be seen in the city. 1

1: Jen Tooker, David Waldman, Jim Marpe, Bespoke Designs owner Shari Lebowitz, Randy Herbertson, Matthew Mandell Photography by John Videler

Want to be seen in the magazine? Tag your social media photos with @WestportLifestyle

C I T Y SC E N E

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

203.227.8700 • DENTALCENTERWESTPORT.COM • CARE@DENTALCENTERWESTPORT.COM • 175 POST RD W, WESTPORT

J A N UA RY 2 0 2 2

city scene

Where neighbors can see and be seen in the city. 1

1: Grease, Staples High School Photography by James Bairaktaris

Want to be seen in the magazine? Tag your social media photos with @WestportLifestyle

C I T Y SC E N E

Kitchen Traditions

Showroom and Design Center

Inspired designs, well crafted. 6 0 New town Rd Danbur y, Connec ticut 0 6 8 1 0 | ( 2 0 3 ) 7 9 1 - 0 5 0 1 | kitchentraditions.ne t

J A N UA RY 2 0 2 2

business monthly A round-up of exciting news from local businesses.

Broder Orland Murray & DeMattie LLC Named a Top Law Firm Broder Orland Murray & DeMattie LLC has been ranked as Tier 1 in Family Law by The U.S. News & World Report and Best Lawyers. The ranking is the result of a rigorous process, which includes peer reviews for leading attorneys in the same field and client and lawyer evaluations.

Nickel Mines at ACT of CT NICKEL MINES is a new musical centered around the 2006 Lancaster, PA Amish schoolhouse shooting. This breathtaking piece of theater explores multiple viewpoints from that fateful morning and is a living memorial to the young girls who tragically lost their lives. NICKEL MINES is a powerful exploration of community, perseverance, and ultimately one of hope. Shows from January 20-30. ACTofCT.org (Ridgefield)

FREE Tech Help at the Westport Library! Come in Tuesdays from 4-6 p.m. to get some personal training on your e-reader, iPad, or tablet at the Tech Help table. Free! Their experts will be there to answer your questions about how your device works, how to load things onto it, and how to solve those annoying little problems that we all have from time to time! (Dates and times subject to change.) WestporLibrary.org

B USIN E SS M ON T H LY

WHERE ART AND TECHNOLOGY CONVERGE

Providing the best of medical, cosmetic and laser services to our community. D R . TA N YA F U TO RYA N Dr. Futoryan is a Board-Certified Dermatologist with 20 years of experience in minimally invasive facial aesthetic procedures. She is an expert at using a variety of injectables and technologies to make your face look younger and fresher while keeping it natural. She will provide you with the best anti-aging treatment options to suit your personal needs, designed to achieve and maintain healthy and beautiful skin for life.

D R . L AU R E N L E V Y Dr. Levy, Board-Certified Dermatologist, is an expert in treating acne, rosacea, skin cancer, psoriasis, skin manifestations of rheumatologic diseases, and advanced treatments of hair loss.

DR. SAMUEL GETTLER Dr. Gettler, Board-Certified Dermatologist, is an expert in treating skin cancer, acne, eczema, psoriasis, warts, molluscum, and diseases affecting the skin, hair and nails in adults and children.

WESTPORT DERMATOLOGY & LASER CENTER 325 RIVERSIDE AVE, WESTPORT, CT 06880 P H O N E : 2 0 3. 2 2 6. 3 60 0 / T E X T: 2 0 3.666.660 4 I N F O @W E S T P O RT D E R M .C O M / W W W.W E S T P O RT D E R M .C O M

J A N UA RY 2 0 2 2

business monthly A round-up of exciting news from local businesses.

Launch of AAPIWestport.com Westport announces the launch of a new website, AAPIWestport.com. AAPI Westport is a group committed to educating others about Asian American Pacific Islander history and experiences. Their goal is to create an environment where children feel proud of their heritage, and to foster a sense of belonging within the community, as well as increase AAPI visibility and awareness throughout Westport and beyond.

Logo by Rosie Jon

Thanks to Sustainable Westport! Westport is one of 12 towns in the entire state to be awarded SILVER status for Sustainability (the highest level recognized)!! The award is based on significant achievements in THIRTEEN sustainable impact areas, ranging from inclusive community building, thriving local economies, and clean and efficient energy use, to vibrant arts and culture, clean transportation and diverse housing. Many thanks to all the contributors in this effort who spent countless efforts towards the certification process. SustainableWestport.org

10 Years of JoyRide Ten years and going strong! JoyRide continues to offer spin, weights, barre, yoga, fundraiser rides, and more. Come experience the community that empowers you to use your strength to live a big, joyful life! JoyRideStudio.com

B USIN E SS M ON T H LY

You’re Reading This Ad

So is the entire Westport + Weston community. With the highest circulation to Westport + Weston residents and businesses, Westport Lifestyle Magazine is an unbeatable way to share your business with this incredible town.

Reach out to our publisher, Marisa, to get started on your media plan today!

Marisa.MacLean@lifestylepubs.com JANUARY 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / W E ST P O RT

J A N UA RY 2 0 2 2

business monthly A round-up of exciting news from local businesses.

Congratulations to Jen Tooker and Andrea Moore On November 16, Jennifer Tooker and Andrea Moore were sworn in at Town Hall as our new first and second selectwomen, the first time the two top posts have been simultaneously held by women. Town Clerk Jeff Dunkerton administered the oaths.

Jerri Graham

Registration is Ongoing at NSFC Neighborhood Studios of Fairfield County is back with in-person classes at our new location at 150 Elm St, adjacent to the Downtown Cabaret Theater in Bridgeport. We provide classes in music, dance, theater and art for children of all ages and a Conservatory Program for dedicated teens. We offer a welcoming environment to students of all abilities and backgrounds, including those with special needs. Visit our website to register, learn more or support our programs: NStudios.org

Tusk has a new home! Tusk has relocated to the quaint heart of Southport Village, now located at 167 Old Post Road in Southport. Tusk offers two showrooms featuring many vendors, such as Lee, Rowe, Bernhardt, Universal and Vanguard. The shop caters to those wanting instant gratification with home accessories for styling, beautiful works of art for the walls and an extensive line of home furnishings. Our specialty is interior design and with this move we were able to expand our design offices to cater to our clients. Come say hi, we look forward to welcoming you back!

If you want to be included, send us a message! Visit CityLifestyle.com/Westport to get in touch.

B USIN E SS M ON T H LY

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THOUGHTS ON EMPOWERMENT KAILE ZAGGER ADDRESSES WOMEN IN A POSTPANDEMIC WORLD.

Welcome to what will hopefully be our first fully post-pandemic year! It’s been rough on all of us in different ways, but women were especially challenged with multiple roles they were forced to fill. So now what? We spoked with Kaile Zagger, a mother, executive, and advocate for women and girls rights. WLM: You’re a prominent and staunch supporter of female empowerment. What led you to this? Kaile Zagger: I grew up with a strong mother who encouraged independence, education, freedom, and choice. When I was thirteen years old my mother was diagnosed with Stage 4 Ovarian Cancer. She lost her battle with the disease six years later at 46 years old. The loss splintered my family, devastated us financially, and stretched me beyond what I thought I would be capable of. With very little resource and support, I made my way through college and was fiercely committed to building a career and life that my mother would be proud of. There have been great moments and tough challenges – but in the end, I believe that women are capable of more than we realize at times. I have been young, motherless, alone, poor, scared, abused in a marriage, and have become a mother, executive, friend. I’ve built a career and a foundation and will continue to carry the torch for girls and women. Women are strong and capable of anything. We must empower women to take charge of their lives and protect them so they can thrive. WLM: You mention that COVID has created a “crisis for women.” Can you tell me more about that? KZ: The pandemic has created a perfect storm for women and has brought on a regressive effect on gender equality. Women’s jobs are 1.8x more vulnerable to crisis than men’s. Women make up 39% of the global employment but account for 54% of the job loss. Women in poverty is at an all time high, and the pandemic cost women globally over $800B in lost income in just one year. 47M women and girls were pushed into poverty. It’s shocking to me how frail our infrastructure is, and I believe we need to pay serious attention on the lessons learned from COVID and re-build in a progressive fashion, to ensure that this travesty cannot repeat itself.

O UR TOWN | HEALTH + W E LLNE S S

WLM: What effect does this have on women in our communit y? KZ: Women are connectors, they need society. If you isolate her down into the home, or work, there’s no soulful connection; their entire health and well-being becomes compressed. Moms who were once professionals are quitting their jobs because of the pressures the pandemic has created. The great downshift, as they have coined it, is real and we stand to have a $1T impact to GDP by 2030 if we don’t take the necessary steps to provide a strong path forward for women. Research demonstrates that women do an average of 3-4 hours of household work, house/family management, or childcare per day – irrespective of whether they have a job outside the home or not. We want to do it all, but we need support and infrastructure to do it. The world is a better, stronger place with women in the workplace. Employee satisfaction is much higher when women are in senior leadership positions, and there is a direct correlation to share performance and profitability when women are in these positions. We must fight to keep progressing and not allow regression to happen. We have come so far, we cannot lose ground now. WLM: What advice would you give a woman who chooses to be a stay-at-home mom? KZ: Lean in to what makes your heart come alive, not what you have been relegated to do. We all have a purpose in life and we need to work to ensure that purpose is fulfilled. Each of us needs to educate ourselves and raise the next generation of girls to be even more knowledgeable, hard-working, and independent. We must raise women that value marriage, motherhood, and career – and understand the art and the how of creating a beautiful equilibrium. Most important, we need to know that we’re not alone, we are strong and we can rise above absolutely anything. Kaile Zagger is an advocate for transformation of healthcare, COO of a publicly traded company, CEO of a foundation, private equity adviser, active board member, and named as Top 10 COO in the healthcare space.

Kaile Zagger with her children. (Photo: Yolanda Perez photography)

The

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“LEAN IN TO WHAT MAKES YOUR HEART COME ALIVE, NOT WHAT YOU HAVE BEEN RELEGATED TO DO.”

Kaile Zagger (Photo: Yolanda Perez photography) JANUARY 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / W E ST P O RT

175 POST ROAD WEST, WESTPORT, CT 06880

203.454.0032

KARENBERKEMEYERHOME.COM

WESTPORT'S CHICEST NEW SHOP FOR ENTERTAINING INVITATIONS • FLATWARE • LINENS • TABLE DECOR • FRESH FLOWERS CANDLES • SILVER • CRYSTAL • STATIONERY • REGISTRY

Dr. Zaher Merhi consults with a patient.

A NEW

WESTPORT FERTILITY TEAM OFFERS INNOVATIVE HELP FOR FAMILIES-IN-WAITING

HOPE

ARTICLE BY MEREDITH GUINNESS PHOTOGRAPHY BY JULIA D'AGOSTINO

H EA LT H Y LIF E ST Y LE | HEALTH + W E LLNE S S

For Jane*, the clock started ticking when she got married at 37. She and her husband both knew they wanted children, but after more than a year of letting nature take its course the couple decided they needed a helping hand and headed for the first of two traditional fertility clinics. “To put it nicely, it was not a great experience,” says the Stamford woman, now 41. Instead, it was stressful, frustrating, and used up much of what their insurance plan would pay for fertility services. “It was very cookie-cutter and we were not given many options,” she reveals. Jane took to the internet and learned about gentle in vitro fertilization (IVF) and an out-of-state center that might offer them a more personalized approach. But COVID struck and traveling for consultation and treatment was suddenly not an option. Enter Rejuvenating Fertility Center (RFC), a Manhattan-based clinic that opened Connecticut’s first non-conventional IVF center in Westport in November 2020. Founded by Zaher Merhi, MD, a world-renowned reproductive endocrinology and infertility specialist, the center offers hope and innovative, research-based solutions for families-in-waiting across the region. With ten years of experience at their West 57th Street headquarters, Dr. Merhi and the center’s director of internal medical affairs, Marco Mouanness, MD, decided the time was right to expand to Westport’s Main Street, along with new sites on Long Island and in New Rochelle. “We’re the first IVF lab in Westport,” says Jessica Haroun, RN, the office’s practice and hiring manager. “We were seeing a lot of our clientele here and a lot of people were moving to the suburbs. The demand is definitely high.” The practice specializes in so-called gentle IVF, a more holistic approach that uses minimal medication to produce quality results, no-medication natural IVF, and methods that require no injections and blood draws: something patients often dread. RFC also offers IVF medications in a kit mailed to the patient’s home, a desirable option during the pandemic. Paired with telemedicine visits, the at-home kit takes travel time and potential health risks of being in the doctor’s office for daily treatment out of the equation. Patients may also benefit from Dr. Merhi’s ozone sauna therapy, the first in the country. He uses the powerful properties found in ozone that help the body take in and use oxygen in relaxing 30-minute sessions. The process, which reduces inflammation and has other health benefits, Dr. Mouanness said, is considered a helpful option for women attempting pregnancy over the age of 35. RFC is a full-service facility, offering ovarian rejuvenation, an on-site embryology lab, egg freezing for family planning, and specific services for non-traditional families. In addition to the ozone sauna, the center offers gynecological rejuvenation and hysteroscopy as well as acupuncture services which can improve blood flow to the uterus and ovaries. “It’s a wellness center for women,” says Dr. Mouanness. Jane and her husband noticed a difference during their free consultation in Fall 2020. Dr. Merhi recommended a hysteroscopy, which unveiled scarring in her uterus. Once it was removed to improve blood flow, he prescribed a round of ozone sauna treatments to boost her chances of producing best-quality eggs and preparing for early pregnancy.

Patient room.

Caring for a patient.

CONTINUED >

JANUARY 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / W E ST P O RT

Zaher Merhi, MD, acupuncturist Aimee Raupp, practice and hiring manager Jessica Haroun and Marco Mouaaness, MD, are the heart of the team.

“I got very personalized care, which was really nice,” says Jane, who underwent two rounds of IVF with the team. “With Dr. Merhi, there were just a lot more options.” Pricing for services was competitive and the center offers a payas-you-go option that many families appreciate, Haroun explains. Dr. Mouanness said the practice strives to make sure price is not a deciding factor in care. This past November, Jane and her husband welcomed their baby girl. “What a journey,” she says. “We’re so grateful to Dr. Merhi and Dr. Marco. I don’t know which one I like more!

The

“It was bittersweet when we ‘graduated.’ They were like our family.” About one in eight women will experience infertility and many are looking for answers and treatment options. RFC works to provide each woman with the best tools available to address her specific issues and transform her hopes to reality. “It’s fascinating,” Dr. Mouanness says of his work. “We’re trying to form families. Being a part of that is a big honor.” *A real patient whose name is being withheld for privacy.

Heıda

I N T ER N AT I O N AL MU S I C C O M PE T I T I O N @MoCA WESTPORT JANUARY 13-15, 2022 Hosted by Alexander Platt, Director of the Heida

The 2022 Heida Hermanns Piano Competition will once again bring four of the world’s top young pianists to Westport, Connecticut to compete over the course of three days in one of America’s most celebrated cultural communities. 19 New town Turnpike Westpor t , CT 06880 203-2 2 2-7070 • theheida.mocawestpor t .org

H EA LT H Y LIF E ST Y LE | HEALTH + W E LLNE S S

In-Per son + Virtual Tickets Available!

2022 FINALISTS

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JANUARY 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / W E ST P O RT

AWAY FROM IT ALL RIVER RUN | 157 EASTON ROAD

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F E AT U R E | HEALTH + WELLNE S S

have fitn ess goal, will accomplish

SHERPA AND ZION PHYSICAL THERAPY ARE THE GROUND ZERO FOR ATHLETES

ARTICLE BY ROBIN MOYER CHUNG CONTINUED > JANUARY 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / W E ST P O RT

Jean in the Marathon Des Sables.

Saul running the New York Marthon.

There’s a race in the Sahara Dessert: the Marathon des Sables. It’s seven marathons in six days of 110 temperatures and carrying all of your belongings the entire time. The Marathon site indicates it’s “a truly gruelling [sic] multi-stage adventure in one of the world's most inhospitable environments.” The Ironman race is another grueling race held worldwide: 2.4-mile swim, a 112-mile bicycle ride and a marathon 26.22-mile run. It’s one of the most challenging races in the world and the Lake Placid Ironman is one of the most difficult courses. For those of you wondering who would, or could, participate in races like these, consider that there are fitness phenoms all around, you just don’t know who they are because they look and act (and are) like regular people. So you probably don’t know that one of the Marathon des Sables runners is Jean Paul Desrosiers, the owner of Sherpa personal training gym in Westport. The Lake Placid Ironman iron man is Dr. Saul Zion, owner and founder of Zion Physical Therapy who has an office in Sherpa. Yes, Jean and Saul are lovers of all “Wait - that exists?” lengthy outdoor activity, including bike racing and sports, so they both know how much the body can handle and how best to make it powerful. “We’ve both gone through life punches, acute injury, or wear and tear,” Jean explains. Saul, a Doctor of Physical Therapy, is an Orthopedic Certified Specialist, holds two certifications and, most recently, obtained his TPI golf certification (golfers,

F E AT U R E | HEALTH + WELLNE S S

rejoice!). Jean is a certified personal trainer and a former adjunct professor at Sacred Heart U. The two combined forces to support individuals who want to be their best possible athletic selves. Together they offer “Care that no one else is offering or can offer,” explains Saul, whose practice is a leader in the field of pelvic health. Having a PT next to the trainers enables clear and more efficient communication. And, though Saul’s motto may be “Limp In, Run Out,” he also practices on the defensive, or “pre-hab”. The PTs can observe the individuals Jean and his team are training and determine “any movement patterns or contraindications that could indicate a hard stop,” then work with the trainer to make sure patients bounce back ASAP. They know not everyone wants to spend 17 hours running/biking warp speed over craggy terrain in a wet bathing suit, or participate in a self-supported adventure race with no GPS trackers on virgin ground that hadn’t been touched in 10,000 years. Sherpa/Zion PT isn’t just about creating extreme sports wunderkinds. It’s about fine-tuning your body to play soccer or basketball, working on a fundraising walk, or just soothing a pulled calf muscle. To do that, Jean explains “You surround yourself with sherpas who are indigenous to your outdoor goals.” 1555 Post Road East, Westport SherpaFit.com ZionPhysicalTherapy.com

PT room.

“We’ve both gone through life punches, acute injury, or wear and tear.” – Jean

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JANUARY 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / W E ST P O RT

Three Days in

Aruba

The Former Dutch Colony and Current Hidden Paradise Should Be Your Next Getaway. 40

F E AT U R E | TR AVEL

If you’re like me, you need a break. Between cold weather, early sunsets, and the joint excitement and exhaustion of the holiday season, it is beyond time to treat your mental health to some wellearned pampering. And while I love yoga and meditation and whatever cleanse-of-the-week is making its way across my Instagram, we all know the truth: sometimes you just got to get away. 2000 miles due south of Westport, just off the coast of South America, is the desert island paradise I needed to get my head on straight. I went expecting blue skies, immaculate beaches, and an excellent drink or three. I got all of that. What I didn’t expect was an island of beauty and adventure, full of passionate and friendly people who take pride in the travelers wise enough (or lucky enough) to visit their home. Arubans call their home “the happy island”, and it’s easy to tell why. Located just outside the Hurricane belt, this gorgeous Caribbean paradise is sunny year-round. Even their “rainy season” in October and November threatens little more than light sun showers. Aruba boasts a rich history and culture with a mixture of Dutch, Latin American, and indigenous Caquetio and Arawak influences. You’ll find this diversity reflected in the architecture, food, and even the language. Most Arubans speak at least four languages; English, Spanish, Dutch, and Papiamento, a creole language that mixes Spanish, Portuguese, indigenous Arawak, and Dutch. Nowhere was this blended culture and happy spirit more apparent than at the Marriott Resort & Stellaris casino at Palm Beach. It lived in Danny, a veteran bartender and Aruba native who makes the best smoky Old Fashioned I've had on any island (including Manhattan). It lived in their culinary staff, who taught me to make Aruba’s take on the empanada, the pastechi, with flair and dedication. It even lived in Raoul, the Marriott's new general manager, who spoke with passion and excitement about the return of tourism to the world. Their joy was obvious, and more than a little infectious. Within a day of stepping on the island I felt that familiar knot in my shoulders begin to loosen, and the chattering voice of stress in the back of my head begin to quiet. Of course, the luxuriousness of my surroundings probably helped. The resort sports the luxury accommodations and well-appointed amenities one would expect of a four-star Marriott property. Every room features a sizable balcony to enjoy Aruba's perfect weather, the majority of which boast gorgeous ocean views. Outside, you’ll find a pristine pool and covered

ARTICLE BY BRANDON EPSTEIN

CONTINUED >

JANUARY 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / W E ST P O RT

“So many festivals, locals don’t like them. They create mess in their area, they leave behind trash. We decided to leave behind gifts. We left murals.”

swim-up bar surrounded by clean landscaping and babbling water features. But the real prize is the beach itself: gleaming white sand cascading down to impossibly turquoise water that never dips below 80 degrees. In the evenings, the beach transforms into ocean-side seating for Atardi, the resorts impeccable seafood fine-dining option. But Aruba is not an island to be enjoyed entirely from within the walls of a resort. To fully experience all it has to offer, you have to step out. Aruba offers countless opportunities for adventure: parasailing, kite surfing, snorkel and SCUBA tours, to name a few. But I found my thrills on land, behind the wheel of a beefed-up UTV with De Palm Tours. Our guide took as much delight in pointing out historical landmarks and as he did in revving the engines and powering up hills. It was a perfect balance that made the tour feel equal parts NatGeo documentary and Mad Max: Fury Road. Aruba’s elaborate past is fascinating, but the even cooler story is the inspiring

F E AT U R E | TR AVEL

tales unfolding in San Nicolas, the oft-overlooked but up-and-coming town on Aruba’s southern tip. San Nicolas, once the center of Aruba’s now-defunct industrial economy, is reinventing itself as Aruba’s Art City. Standing at the center of that transformation is the San Nicolas Art Festival and its inspiring organizer, Tito Bolivar. Bolivar imagined a fully-indie, self-taught enterprise; one that would be embraced by internationals and tourists alike. “So many festivals, locals don’t like them. They create mess in their area, they leave behind trash. We decided to leave behind gifts. We left murals.” Those first murals became the seed of Aruba’s Art Walls. Today, more than 50 murals paint the streets of San Nicolas, some stretching more than 30 feet into the air. Among masterpieces from local artists you’ll find murals from internationally known names like Insane51, Wild Drawing, artists whose commission prices typically rise into the high five-figures.

When I ask Tito how he can afford to bring artists of that caliber, he just smiles. “For me, they paint for free.” After an afternoon in San Nicolas, it’s easy to see why. What the Tito and the community are building is truly a work of creativity and love. It’s a story of revitalization, of a town long overlooked reclaiming its voice and fostering untapped talent within its people. It’s the ultimate expression of the passionate spirit of Aruba; one that inspires artists to fly in from around the world, just so they can be a part of it. They call Aruba “one happy island”, but it’s so much more than that. It’s an island of beauty, of adventure, of history and inspiration and hidden depths yet to be revealed. All I know is that the next time I feel that knot in my shoulders, or that stress behind my eyes, there’s only one place I’ll want to go. Bon bini Aruba! (297) 586-9000 ArubaMariott.com

(Photo by Heidi Curran)

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Row Impact

ARTICLE BY ROBIN MOYER CHUNG | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOHN VIDELER

ROW HOUSE OFFERS A (GREAT) NEW WORKOUT

Proud instructors, toned arms.

F E AT U R E | FITNESS

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No one’s ever accused me of spotting new trends. I have a side part, zoodles never touched my dinner plates, and most of what I wear is consignment so I’m rocking styles that peaked several years ago. Still, I’m pretty confident about this trend: Row House. A month ago I learned that Laura Sabia, who owns Pure Barre, had purchased Row House and overhauled its slate of trainers and managers. Well, Pure Barre is fabulous and kept me sane and semi-social last year, so knowing she was steering RowHouse? Curiosity: piqued. Rowing workouts are low-impact, high cardio, and a total body workout targeting glutes, back, and arms (yay!). According to Laura, the classes are fun and most important: fast results. How can this be? Rowing works almost 85% of your entire body, pretty much everything but your forehead and toes. Combine the muscle workout and the cardio and you’ll see results, ostensibly, after two weeks. Now, if you tell me the class is fun and I’ll see results quickly, well, if you tell me to put charcoal beneath my mattress and it’ll be a diamond in the morning. I’ll be stuffing briquettes in my bed for hours. A body re-boot in six classes? Bring it on. The space itself is hip but streamlined. Black, white, yellow. Lockers, bench, water station. An illustration/ diagram of an eight-person crew boat depicts the role of each seat. In the dark workout room, 16 ergs (rowing machines) are arranged in rows with a shelf of black weights. As

in spinning, the instructor sits slightly elevated at the front of the room. Currently, Row House offers three classes: • Signature - 45 minutes of rowing intervals and full-body floor and weight exercises • Full Row - 45 minutes of rowing • Express Signature - 30 minutes of Signature Spoiler: I loved it! It’s a nice change-up in routines and the time flies. As with most exercise classes, you get out what you put in. It’s possible to have a light workout without anyone noticing, or you can tear it up hardcore and be exhausted at the end. Depends on what you want and it helps to be self-motivated. The instructors talk a lot about splits (time it takes to row 500 meters) and strokes. You also get a summary after each class with a bunch of numbers. Personally, I don’t pay a lot of attention to these - it’ll get in my head and I’ll start fighting like a junkyard dog to beat them and burn myself out. The Results: After only three classes I felt stronger and tighter. After six, my clothes fit better and I’m beginning to get my pre-pandemic body back. Granted, I decided to augment each week with two days of cardio - bike, power walks - but I had been doing these with reasonable frequency beforehand. If you decide to try it - and you really should - I’ll be the one in the black leggings and t-shirt I got for free five years ago. I won't be uprooting the fashion world or capturing the hearts and minds of millions, but I will be fit. TheRowHouse.com/location/westport 380 Post Road East, Westport (203) 557-6438

F E AT U R E | FITNESS

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Jumping in front of the landmark CITGO sign in Boston. (Photo: Billie Weiss)

F E AT U R E | SPORTS + R ECRE ATI ON

Westport's Olympic Snowboarder JULIA MARINO SHREDS THE SLOPES WITH FITNESS, DIET, AND UNCONDITIONAL LOVE ARTICLE BY DAVE BRIGGS

The Beijing Winter Olympics are just a month away, at which point we trust you’ll be hunkered down rooting on one of Westport’s own. Professional snowboarder Julia Marino has been traveling the world, training day and night with hopes of shredding the slopes and ascending the Olympic medal stand for the first time. The Westporter is a 7-time X-Games medalist who qualified for the 2018 Olympics but was disappointed in her performance in which she failed to medal. This time she’s taking a different approach, “In the last Olympics I put a lot of pressure on myself, this year I just want to have fun and do my best, whatever happens happens.” Don’t take her laid back attitude for a lax work ethic. Julia is working her tail off and wants to crush the competition in both the Slopestyle (her signature event) and Big Air, but she wants to smell the proverbial roses on the chairlift. Like any Olympian, Julia’s story is one involving many years of sacrifice, determination, flexibility and perseverance. Only to hear her tell it, the sacrifice was not hers, but her parents. Even her discovering the sport goes back to her father. Every year they took a family ski trip to Beaver Creek, Colorado and on one fateful day Julia broke her ski. Her dad, John, didn’t want to buy her another set of skis,

so she started boarding and the rest is, as they say, history. Since that day, John and Elaine have supported their daughter every arduous and expensive step of the way, “I’m super fortunate and lucky because I know there’s a lot of kids out there that don’t have this support, they really put everything into it, they saw I had a passion and talent for it… my parents are very selfless people,” says Julia. John then picked up his career and took it on the road to Colorado to support Julia’s snowboarding dreams.“I’m so incredibly lucky to have him, its insane!” She enthuses. Heaping praise is apparently a Team Marino trait as John tells me, “I’m impressed and amazed by everything she’s accomplished… but I’m not surprised.” Between travel and training the 24 yearold rarely takes a day off. When we talked via Zoom she was competing 4,000 miles from home in Austria. Afterwards Julia returns to the US for Big Air Steamboat (Colorado), then straight to the Dew Tour in Copper Mountain, Colorado then north to Calgary. After a quick turn to Mammoth, California, she’s off to Lax, Switzerland before the X-Games in Aspen and the ‘big air’ of air travel; 6,000 miles to Beijing for the Winter Games. That’s more than 33,000 miles traveled over five countries in three months. CONTINUED >

JANUARY 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / W E ST P O RT

Practicing for the Olympics in Austria. (Photo: Dasha Nosova)

Olympics course.

F E AT U R E | SPORTS + R ECRE ATI ON

Similar to the Rocky Mountain altitude, it’s enough to take your breathe away. Julia actually prefers it, “It’s nice to stay in the competitive mindset and just bang it out all at once, then you can cruise with your friends and shred when it’s all over.” Until then, Julia will grind out each and every day to make sure her body can survive that gauntlet of competition and thrive within it. Snowboarders are far from the gym rats you’ll find in more traditional Olympic sports. Their work for the most part comes on the mountain, buckled into a board, breathing the mountain air. But the body takes a pounding up there, so training is an essential component. Primarily in the off-season Julia spends five to six days a week in the gym for an hour a day, working on her body. Her routine is almost exclusively weight training to strengthen her legs and core, “When you land jumps you have to have your legs take the impact and snap right back, balance comes from your core.” When snow is scarce Julia practices her jumps on a giant snowboarding air bag of sorts and further develops muscle memory by skateboarding whenever possible. Lastly her training concerns recovery. Tired, sore muscles, jet lag, and sleep struggles are par for the Slopestyle course and Julia battles all three with StaminaPro patches, a product popular among professional athletes which reduces inflammation for a faster recovery. The world traveler also utilizes a specific ‘Immune Boost’ to adjust to different time zones and a ‘Power Sleep’ version as the name suggests. As for the strict diets you sometimes hear our Olympic heroes abide by, Julia passes. She eats as healthy as she can for someone who rarely knows what country she’s in. She doesn’t eat a lot of junk food (aside from her personal favorite Ben & Jerry’s) and if you’re looking for a quintessential Marino meal back home you’ll find it at her favorite, Chef’s Table. “I need 20/25 grams of protein and vegetables in every meal,” she explains, “so I go there and pack it all into one salad, I spent a lot of time and money there this summer!” Julia typically chases snow in the summer but, like most of us, COVID travel restrictions put her professional pursuits on hold. The upside: she spent the entire summer in Westport in the house she grew up in. It’s there that mom and dad are reminded of their ultimate parenting success, as John told me, “As impressed as I am about the athlete she’s become, I’m far more impressed by the person she’s grown into.” Regardless of the outcome next month on the slopes of China, the Marino’s collective dedication and sacrifice has served them well. As for the chances of a Gold Medal, dad says one thing he’s learned is “If she visualizes doing something, I know it will happen.” So keep an eye on the networks of NBC next month!

A snowboarder's best friend.

A much younger Julia.

Travel to exotic locales.

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Pad Thai and Falafel salads.

FIVE DAYS OF GREEN & TONIC Green Juice - the cleansing staple.

EAT R IGH T | HEALTH + WELLNE S S

MY ANNUAL CLEANSING I “enjoy” a health cleanse every year. Last year, after my 2nd juice cleanse in three months, I made a decision to never do another juice cleanse in my entire life. Fortunately, I found Green & Tonic’s (GT) Jumpstart that includes real food. I decided to try it. Here’s my experience: DAY 1 Jumpstart is three days, so I began with Reset which is smoothies and soups. I quickly learned that soup is just a savory smoothie that can be eaten with a spoon, so it’s two full days of liquid. Having said that, it’s delicious liquid. The miso bone broth is satisfying when heated and sipped in a mug, and I plan to serve the cauliflower turmeric soup at my next dinner party. I love the smoothies and there are generous amounts of everything. The juices have names like Daily Detox "Cools And Soothes The Stomach, Balancing Ph And Supporting Digestive Health,” and Jungle Juice “Packed With Vitamin C And Alkalizing Greens To Build Healthy Cells And Strong Immunity.” They inspire. DAY 2 This morning I went to “coffee” with a friend and ordered green tea. The tea isn’t part of the cleanse but I’m sort of letting the rules slide. I’m about to fix my kids a steak and baked potato while I heat my bowl of healthy lentil

soup. It’ll be torture, but fortunately A) I’m not a great cook so their dinner won’t be that good; B) the first two days are always the most difficult. Also, I’ve never been a fan of lentil soup but this stuff is really good. DAY 3 Today my cleanse includes a breakfast bowl and a “Fuel Up Falafel” kale salad which I ate with my hands in the car, I’m so desperate for solid food. The breakfast bowl, cinnamon banana yogurt parfait with caramelized nuts, is amazingly super yummy (or am I simply starving?) There are also several juices and a green smoothie to drink throughout the day, and aloe water before bedtime. Dinner is cauliflower turmeric soup, which I just had so I’d enjoy something different. But I’m feeling pretty good, so whatever. DAY 4 Today’s “Kale Pesto Rotini” salad, with chickpea pasta and roasted tomatoes may be my favorite meal so far. Through GT provides guidelines for when to eat what, I eat whatever I feel like eating at whatever time. This is not a rookie move; I’ve been cleansing for a number of years. The breakfast is a flavorful chia and berry breakfast bowl and dinner is lentil soup. Again. A word about the aloe water: it sounds bland, but it’s not. It’s lemony and tasty. I couldn’t find it on the menu, but it’s worth asking for by name. CONTINUED >

ARTICLE BY ROBIN MOYER CHUNG JANUARY 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / W E ST P O RT

Lentil soup.

Cauliflower turmeric soup.

Fruit smoothies.

DAY 5 Oh, I love this day! Only one more day of cleansing! The “Pad Thai” salad is good, but not my favorite. It reminded me of real Pad Thai and made me wish I was eating that instead. IN CONCLUSION Three words about how I feel: healthy, strong, happy. My skin is clear and I feel mentally and emotionally fit. I lost a couple of pounds - not as much as I would on a juice cleanse because this cleanse isn’t shy on calories - but that isn’t my goal. My goal is to detox and lift my spirits, which it does. I look forward to it next year, with different soups. And maybe a cocktail or two. GreenAndTonic.com 17 Jesup Road, Westport (203) 557-6392

EAT R IGH T | HEALTH + WELLNE S S

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(Photo by John Schnobrich on Unsplash)

As Women, Why Do We Still Deal With Mean Girls? ARTICLE BY ANNA BARNES

If we don't put a stop to bad behavior, mean girls turn into mean women.

S ELF CA R E | L IFE + CU LTURE

Anna Barnes

I grew up in small town Ohio and while the majority of my childhood was perfectly idyllic, I dealt with something I think most women reading this know all too well: mean girls. I had a good high school experience overall but was not exempt from being the target of mean girl behavior. I went from a small private elementary school to a larger pubic high school when I started 9th grade so I was an easy target. I was initially made fun of for being “too nice.” (Is that a thing?) Girls said I was only nice because I wanted to be crowned homecoming queen at the end of high school. In another instance, I had come home from NYC where I had seen so many cute, trendy girls wearing fiddler hats. I loved being “fashion forward” (as much as I could for being a high schooler in small town Ohio in the early 2000’s) and wore said hat to my school’s basketball game. A group of girls a year older pointed and audibly laughed (read: cackled) at me. Everyone stared. I played it off like Elle Woods in the bunny costume, but inside I was devastated. Now I can think back and remember the instant I realized it wasn’t me or my hat they were laughing at, it was their own insecurity. I’ve been lucky to be surrounded by supportive, non-judgmental women for over a decade now, so it never occurred to me that this mean girl toxicity lived beyond the cap and gown of our high school auditoriums. I was wrong. The big crescendo does not stop there. For what? Why do mean girls need to tear others down to build themselves up? This was made all too apparent a few years ago when I relocated to the east coast and overheard two model-esque women at the gym openly discussing a nearby woman’s appearance. It made me

sick to my stomach; the same feeling I felt when those girls laughed at me in a high school gym. I, too, have been the target of harsh words and know how horrible it feels. And truthfully, years ago, at my worst times, I’ve also been the gossiper. I think as women we can all admit that we've been on both sides of this story. There is something to glean from this situation and it’s that if we do not personally put a stop to bad behavior, mean girls turn into mean women. The gym bully body shamers, status climbers, moms who feel the need to criticize how other women raise their children and the mysterious social media veil that seemingly makes it OK to make nasty comments on the internet. It has got to stop. In the name of New Year’s resolutions, I’m hoping that more women will give up insecure tendencies and just be kind. There’s no need to compete against each other because there is room for all of us to thrive and be successful. Sure, everyone has days where our fuses are short but I’m hoping that this new year brings renewed patience and extra emphasis on thinking before we speak. Hello, Westport! You may recognize me as a familiar face from the Westport Lifestyle team or my own blog, Bliss & Bellinis. I’ll be serving up some pearls of inspiration, and sharing some of my favorite things and thoughts with you every month. BlissAndBellinis.com @bliss_and_bellinis

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Classic Chic's Wellness Picks

Chocolate Covered Cashews - If chocolate isn’t wellness, I don’t know what is! I love Goodsam candy-coated cashews because they’re guilt-free! Vegan, sugar-free, gluten-free, and sustainably farmed, so you can feel good about your chocolate habit now. 6 bags for $39.99 GoodSamFoods.com

The Body Ritual - We often put so much time and effort into our faces that we neglect our bodies. I’ve been using the Necessaire body set for over a year. I love it especially before a spray tan, and it comes unscented or in three gorgeous scents. $80, Necessaire.com

Dry Brush - It’s 2022, if you’re not dry brushing what are you doing? It's a relaxing ritual that helps with cell turnover by increasing blood circulation and promoting lymph drainage. $20, Goop.com

Facial Steamer - At the end of the week I love to give my skin a deep cleanse. I use my facial steamer to prep my skin for my evening routine. It's great if your skin is dehydrated. $149, DrDennisGross.com

LED Face Mask - This mask has three settings: blue, red, and amber lights that target different concerns. I love to use the blue light to help with acne while I watch Real Housewives. $195, KimNicholsMD.com

Candle - There truly is something about lighting a candle, it instantly takes off the weight of the day. I’ve been loving this über-chic candle with a 90-hour burn time, as long as you trim your wicks! $98, BlueMercury.com

T R E N D SE T T E R | SHOPPI NG

In 2022 I am putting wellness first, so I’ve rounded up 12 of the chicest wellness must-haves. Everyone’s definition of wellness is different. For me, it’s a barre class, my skincare routine, what I’m eating, or catching up on the Housewives. There is a little something for everyone in this roundup that will, hopefully, enhance your self-care routine.

Sneakers - In order to get a good workout, you need a cute outfit!! I love a clean and chic sneaker, the APL TechLoom Bliss has become a favorite. I've lost count of how many colors I own $200, AthleticPropulsionLabs.com

Robe - A chic robe getting out of the shower is like a hug and this one from Weezie can be customized with a monogram and you choose the piping color! $175, WeezieTowels.com

Tea - Being mindful is something I am always working towards and relaxing with a good cup of tea allows me to start my day right. I love this tea because it's sustainable, the tea bags are compostable. Try all three for $9, SteepAndMellow.com

10.

11.

12.

Cashmere Slippers - So I have never really been a slipper person (odd I know) but these cashmere ones are the best thing I have ever put on my feet. $174, MinnieRose.com

Clearing Mask - When I get a congested T-zone I always reach for this mask because it does a great job detoxing without stripping my skin and making it feel dry. $52, IndieLee.com

Body Oil - My absolute favorite body oil when getting out of the shower, and the scent is clean and energizing. It's the perfect start to the day. $45 IndieLee.com JANUARY 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / W E ST P O RT

J A N UA RY 2 0 2 2

events A curated selection of the most intriguing upcoming events in the city. JANUARY 1ST

Happy New Year!

E V E RYWH E R E | 1 2:0 0 A M Happy New Year, Westport and Weston! Thank you for letting us share your amazing stories and successes. We're looking forward to learning more about you in 2022! JANUARY 3 R D

Language Conversation Group: Hebrew

WE ST P O RT L I B R A RY | 7 :3 0 P M The language conversation groups are for those interested in practicing speaking in another language. The groups are open to all levels of experience and are self-directed. If you are interested in starting a group in a language not offered, contact Jennifer Keller at jkeller@westportlibrary.org . Meets every other Monday in the McCall Room from 7:30 to 9 pm. Contact Susie Cutler at zeldala13@hotmail.com for more information about meeting dates. JANUARY 10 TH

MTC New Voices

MUS I C T H E AT R E O F C T, 5 09 WE ST P O RT AV E NUE , NO RWA L K | 7 :0 0 P M MULATTO BOY by Kevin Renn: Noah, his high school's only student of color, mounts a campaign for student body president amid teachers' lounge rumors that he just might win. This play ponders the hilarious struggles of growing up different, questioning a higher power, and how sometimes our journey of self-discovery continues after the final period bell rings. CONTINUED >

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J A N UA RY 2 0 2 2

events Happy New Year!

2022 It’s Time to Ask Yourself...

Are You Living In Your Dream Home? Thinking about Selling... or Buying? There’s no better time than now! Mortgage rates are low and inventory is flying off the shelf... the market is hot! I’d love to talk with you! Let’s get your New Year started by making your dream home come true!

A curated selection of the most intriguing upcoming events in the city. JANUARY 12TH

Workshop for Moms of Children with Special Needs

WE ST P O RT WR I T E R S ' WO RK S HOP | 1 0 :0 0 A M This workshop will follow the Amherst Writers & Artists method, which was founded on the core belief that every person is a writer, and every writer deserves a safe environment in which to experiment, learn, and develop craft. Together, we will write from a new prompt each week and have the opportunity to share our work with each other. Call 203.227.3250 or email info@ WestportWriters.orgt JANUARY 15TH

Colin Quinn: The Last Best Hope

WA L L ST R E E T T H E AT E R , 71 WA L L ST R E E T, NO R WA L K | 8 :0 0 P M Colin Quinn is a stand-up comedian from Brooklyn (okay, Park Slope). From MTV’s “Remote Control” to “SNL” to Comedy Central’s “Tough Crowd with Colin Quinn,” Mr. Quinn is not one to take a hint and bow out gracefully. He’s been on Broadway and off-Broadway. Recent credits include “Trainwreck,” “Girls,” and his web series “Cop Show,” streaming now on LStudio.com. JANUARY 17TH

MLK Camp for 6-11 Year Olds mindy.wolkstein@raveis.com mindywolkstein.raveis.com 203.216.1287

47 Riverside Avenue | Westport, CT 06880

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WAKEMAN TOWN FARM | 9:00 AM Join our experienced Farm Educators, Arts, and Culinary Instructors for a MLK Day like no other! We'll spend the day visiting our Farm animal friends; learning to cook delicious farmfresh snacks; creating a variety of nature-based crafts and other “maker” activities; playing games; exploring the grounds, gardens and nature trail. WakemanTownFarm.org

Bringing the Extraordinary to Every Home

Let's Talk About

Plastic Surgeons Weigh in on Wellbeing

Wellness

ARTICLE BY DRS. FLORA LEVIN AND MARK FISHER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JULIA D'AGOSTINO

Plastic surgery has its origins in wellness and corrective surgery; to restore and/or alleviate problems causing discomfort, impairment, or worse. 16th century plastic surgeon Gaspare Tagliacozzi said, “We restore, rebuild and make whole those parts which nature hath given, but which fortune has taken away. Not so much that it may delight the eye, but that it might buoy up the spirit...”

Dr. Mark Fisher

Q: HOW CAN WELLNESS RELATE TO PLASTIC SURGERY? Mark Fisher: Patients seek surgery for an array of reasons. Some want to correct the consequences of an accident, deformity, or disease such as cancer, others want to look as good as they can as they age.

Q: WHAT IS ONE PROCEDURE YOU DO WITH THE HIGHEST PATIENT SATISFACTION RATE?

Dr. Mark Fisher 203-557-4356 DRMarkFisher.com Dr. Flora Levin

MF: A breast reduction. Patients suffer from back and neck pain or an inability to play sports and fit into clothes. A breast reduction offers relief and restores confidence in their body. Flora Levin: Blepharoplasty. Due to under-eye bags and dark circles, patients complain of looking tired even when they’re rested. Lower blepharoplasty permanently removes under-eye bags, restoring a rested appearance.

Q: WHAT OTHER PROCEDURES COMBINE COSMETIC AND FUNCTIONAL BENEFITS? MF: A functional rhinoplasty improves a deviated septum or other breathing issues. At the same time, it straightens and contours the nose to better fit the face. FL: Eyelids are usually the first part of our face to show age. Hooded or droopy eyelids can impair vision and feel heavy. After an upper eyelid lift, patients feel their vision is brighter, eyelids less heavy, and they look like themselves again.

Q: WHAT ADVICE DO YOU HAVE FOR PATIENTS INTERESTED IN PLASTIC SURGERY? MF: Find a trustworthy plastic surgeon whose vision aligns with yours. Instead of asking for specific procedures, let them guide you to the procedures they think will best address your needs. FL: Look at the surgeon’s before/after photos and their office staff. Make sure your aesthetic ideals match theirs. Flora Levin, MD 203-557-6464 DrFloraLevin.com

EXP E RT H E LP | HEALTH + W E LLNE S S

LAND ROVER FAIRFIELD

THIS TIME, IT’S PERSONAL.

LAND ROVER FAIRFIELD CT'S EXLUSIVE SV SPECIALIST CENTRE Expert product knowledge, highly trained specialists and tailor-made care for Land Rover SV luxury and Classic vehicles. It’s why, here at LAND ROVER FAIRFIELD, we’ve been awarded enhanced status as Connecticut's Exclusive SV Specialist Centre. This means, when it comes to you and your Land Rover, it’s personal. So why not come by and let us introduce ourselves, and the Land Rover SV family? Enjoy the opportunity to get up close to these specialist vehicles or even experience one by taking a test drive. Whether you want in-depth product advice or have questions about Land Rover SV servicing, you’ll receive our undivided attention. After all, we want your visit to be as special as owning and driving one of our incredible vehicles. Please call David or Tyler, our SV Specialists, on 203.874.8500 for more details. LAND ROVER FAIRFIELD One Commerce Drive, Fairfield, CT 06825 203.874.8500 landroverfairfield.com