Empowering Our Community for a Brighter Future
Hi Darien and New Canaan Community,
Welcome to our April Investment Issue, a special edition dedicated to nurturing well-being, supporting local innovation, and investing in a healthier, more vibrant community. In this issue, we explore how investing in yourself and our local initiatives can create lasting change.
Discover practical ways to enhance your well-being with insights from Greenwich Psychology & Wellness, and learn how investing in your health is made easy with Kinney Lane Foods, an inspiring meal delivery service led by a passionate local mom. We’re also proud to feature a powerful story on community impact through The Exchange Project, which is driving meaningful change via collaboration and social action.
In addition, we’re excited to introduce our student spotlight on Alina Shahzad, a remarkable 16-year-old from Darien High School whose fresh perspective reminds us that every generation holds the promise of innovation. And don’t miss Megan’s monthly local experience column, where she shares her favorite picks and hidden gems across our towns.
This issue is all about investing in our future whether that is through health, education, or community empowerment. Let’s come together to build a resilient, thriving community where every small investment helps shape a brighter tomorrow.
April 2025
PUBLISHER
Laura Sabia | laura.sabia@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Kristin Burnell | kristin.burnell@citylifestyle.com
PUBLISHER ASSISTANT
Emma Parente | emma.parente@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Julia Braatz, Kellie Kerwin, Alyssa Lavy, Megan Schinella
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Abby Cole Photography, Carly Ridloff
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
CTO Ajay Krishnan
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders
AD DESIGNER Mary Albers
LAYOUT DESIGNER Rhiannon Coffman
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Anna Minnick
Proverbs 3:5-6
city scene
1: Nina B. Clarke hosting 2025 Vision Board Workshop at Pure Barre Darien 2: Megan Schinella & Nina B. Clarke 3: Beautiful Vision Boards
5: Amanda Gershman
8: Nina B. Clarke & Laura Sabia
Ocean House and Weekapaug Inn are Named Five-Star Hotels in Forbes Travel Guide for 2025
Ocean House, a Relais & Châteaux, luxury resort overlooking the Atlantic Ocean in Watch Hill, R.I., and Weekapaug Inn, a timeless Relais & Chateaux, New England-style inn set in the peaceful Weekapaug community, announce that both properties along with COAST and Ocean & Harvest Spa at Ocean House have once again been awarded the distinguished Forbes FiveStar designation for 2025. The coveted recognition solidifies these locations as two of the world's most exceptional luxury hospitality experiences.
New Trustee to join the Lockwood-Mathews Mansion Museum’s Board
The Lockwood-Mathews Mansion Museum has announced that Ernest F. DesRochers will join the Board of Trustees. Mr. DesRochers holds an MBA from the University of Connecticut and has over 35 years of experience in real estate finance, specializing in debt and equity investments. With 28 years in P&L and personnel management, he has led multiple production offices and consistently ranked in the top 10% for fee income and production at NorthMarq Capital.
On April 10th 2025, 6-8 p.m., The Lockwood-Mathews Mansion Museum will kick-off its 2025 Lecture Series with, Gilded Age Properties: Sneak Peek at the Holdings of the Lockwoods & Mathews featuring Trustee and financial expert Kathy Olsen, CPA, who is currently a Director of Green Brick Partners, Inc. (NYSE: GRBK), a diversified homebuilding and land development company. The talk will be held at The Great Hall at HMTX Industries, 27 Seir Hill Rd., Norwalk, CT.
Photography Courtesy of Hande Gurdogan
THE EXCHANGE IMPACT
In a world where meaningful connections can drive real impact, The Exchange Project stands out as a catalyst for change. Founded on the belief that collaboration and shared experiences can create lasting social progress, the initiative has been making waves in communities and industries alike.
ARTICLE BY KELLIE KERWIN
PHOTOGRAPHY BY CARLY RIDLOFF
At the helm is Carly Ridloff, whose passion and vision have shaped The Exchange Project into a platform for innovation,
How The Exchange Project is driving meaningful change through community, collaboration and social impact
“We encourage you to support by attending our events, co-hosting one or following @the.exchangeproject for tips, updates and community stories.”
dialogue and transformation. In this Q&A, Carly shares the inspiration behind the project, the challenges and triumphs along the way, and what’s next for this growing movement.
CAN YOU SHARE THE INSPIRATION BEHIND THE EXCHANGE PROJECT?
The Exchange Project was born from my personal journey. Watching A Plastic Ocean in 2015 opened my eyes to the plastic crisis, and The True Cost made me realize the fashion industry's role in global waste and exploitation. Once I understood the damage, I couldn’t ignore it—I had to help.
I’ve always loved fashion as self-expression, but I didn’t want to compromise my values. So, I started swapping clothes with friends, then expanded it into The Exchange Project. As our swaps and resale grew, it became clear that people want sustainable options but need an easier way to access them.
My mission has always been to bridge style and sustainability, and The Exchange Project is the
embodiment of that vision. Now, it’s about scaling it for even greater impact.
WHAT MOTIVATED YOU TO GET INVOLVED IN THIS TYPE OF WORK?
I’m not sure what exactly motivated me to take on such a huge problem, but someone has to start! Every item swapped keeps clothes out of landfills—and your closet too! I always say, if it’s not working for you, let it go. The Exchange Project has become a metaphor for life: if something—whether it’s clothes, people, or thoughts— doesn’t elevate your life, make room for what does.
WHAT IS THE CORE MISSION OF THE EXCHANGE PROJECT, AND HOW HAS IT EVOLVED SINCE ITS INCEPTION?
The Exchange Project has evolved from simple clothing swaps to a multi-faceted movement. What began as in-person events now includes luxury resale and a vision to expand into a fashion tech platform, where women can swap via an app.
Carly Ridloff
Our mission started with swaps and has grown into providing a responsible, sustainable way for women to exchange clothes. If items aren’t right for our events, we donate them to women’s shelters. We’re committed to keeping clothes out of landfills, ensuring they are properly distributed rather than sent to clothing landfills abroad.
Beyond clothes, we exchange ideas—sharing wellness tips, books, and practices to elevate both individuals and the planet. Our consignment line has also grown, offering women a place to sell luxury items and earn more than from traditional resellers. We love helping women make money and find new homes for their treasures!
WHAT IMPACT HAS THE PROJECT HAD SO FAR, AND ARE THERE ANY SUCCESS STORIES THAT STAND OUT TO YOU?
The Exchange Project has made a big impact, hosting over 30 events on the East Coast and saving hundreds of items from landfills, like 546 pieces at our event with The Granola Bar and Laura Skolnik. A standout success is how we've helped people shift away from fast fashion, with attendees now opting for sustainable swaps instead. Our luxury resale consignment also gives high-end pieces a second life.
Next, we’re evolving into a fashion tech company to make sustainable fashion even more accessible. The momentum is building, and I’m excited for what’s ahead!
Loaded Potato Soup
COZY UP ON A RAINY SPRING DAY WITH THIS LOADED BAKED POTATO SOUP!
ARTICLE BY ALYSSA LAVY, MS, RD, CDN | PHOTOGRAPHY BY ALYSSA LAVY, MS, RD, CDN
Ingredients
(yields ~12 C or 6-8 servings):
• 3 lbs. baby dutch yellow potatoes or similar
• 1 medium head cauliflower
• ¼ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp pepper
• ¼ tsp garlic powder
• ¼ tsp onion powder
• 2 Tbsp oil (such as avocado or vegetable)
• ¼ C scallions, chopped (white/light green parts)
• 1 sweet onion, diced
• 4 C chicken stock
• 2 C water
• 1 C Greek whole milk yogurt, plain
• 1 1/2 C whole milk
• 2 Tbsp oil (such as avocado or vegetable)
• 1-1 ½ Tbsp kosher salt (amount may vary depending on preference and amount of sodium in chicken broth)
• ¼ tsp ground black pepper
• ¼ tsp garlic powder
• 4 oz pancetta, chopped
• Nonstick cooking spray
Serving suggestions: sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, crispy pancetta, green scallion tips
Directions
1. Preheat the oven to 450 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. Chop cauliflower into florets, rinse and pat dry. Toss cauliflower with 2 Tbsp oil, ¼ tsp salt, ¼ tsp pepper, ¼ tsp garlic powder, ¼ tsp onion powder. Spray medium sized baking sheet (9x13 inch works well) with nonstick cooking spray and transfer the cauliflower in a single, even layer. Roast in oven at 450 degrees Fahrenheit for about 20-25 minutes, until slightly browned. Once cauliflower is in oven, move forward with the next step .
3. Wash potatoes and transfer to a large pot. Add enough water to the pot so potatoes are covered. Bring water to a boil and boil until potatoes are fork tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain water and set potatoes aside. While potatoes are boiling, move forward with the next step.
4. Warm 1 Tbsp oil in a small pan. Add chopped pancetta and sauté until browned and crispy, about 5-10 minutes. Remove from heat and use a small strainer to reserve the oil in a small bowl or measuring cup. Set pancetta aside in a small dish. If you do not plan to add pancetta, you can omit this step and just replace the reserved oil with oil of your choice in step 6.
5. Place about half of the boiled potatoes in a blender. Add roasted cauliflower, chicken broth, 2 C water and blend until smooth and creamy. Set aside.
6. Warm 1 Tbsp oil plus the reserved oil from the pancetta (about 3 Tbsp total) in large pot used to boil potatoes. Add onion and sauté for 5 minutes, until softened. Add scallions and sauté for another 2-3 minutes, until onion is slightly browned.
7. Pour about ¾ of the pureed potato and cauliflower mixture into the pot. Keep the remaining amount in the blender.
8. Add approximately ½ of the remaining boiled potatoes to the remaining puree in the blender. Add milk and Greek yogurt. Blend until smooth and creamy.
9. Add pureed mixture to the pot. Add kosher salt, remaining ¼ tsp pepper and remaining ¼ tsp garlic powder to pot. Warm over medium heat for 5-10 minutes. While soup is warming, cut the remaining boiled potatoes into cubes. Add to soup and reduce heat to low-medium for another 10-15 minutes. Scoop 1-2 cups of soup into a bowl and serve with a sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese, a spoonful of crispy pancetta, a pinch of scallions (dark green part) and a dollop of sour cream for the ultimate loaded baked potato soup. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-5 days and reserve extra toppings in separate containers.
This is the creamiest, coziest loaded baked potato soup – and it’s made without heavy cream or
flour! The creaminess comes from pureed potatoes and cauliflower, along with protein-filled Greek yogurt and milk, which makes it perfect for rainy April days when you want to feel warm and cozy without feeling weighed down by a heavy meal. Plus, this loaded baked potato soup offers plenty of gut-healthy fiber and nutrients like potassium, vitamin C, vitamin B6, folate and calcium! Top it with shredded cheese, crispy pancetta, a dollop of sour cream and chopped scallions for the ultimate loaded baked potato taste in every spoonful!
Alyssa Lavy, MS, RD, CDN, CPT is a registered dietitian, personal trainer and mom of 2. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science from The George Washington University and her Master of Science in Nutrition and Exercise Physiology from Teachers College Columbia University, where she also completed her dietetic internship. She has been an ACSM certified personal trainer for over a decade. Alyssa is the owner of Alyssa Lavy Nutrition & Wellness, a wellness brand offering nutrition communications, program development and consulting services for individuals and corporations.
alyssalavy.com @alyssalavyrd
IMPROVE YOUR Wellbeing WITH GREENWICH Psychology & Wellness
Therapy offers a safe space for personal growth and emotional healing, but can come with misconceptions and often have many feeling skeptical about whether it's the best thing for them. While many of us live in a constant state of stress, the benefits of therapy can help us work through daily frustrations and find a way to deal with them in a productive way.
As a clinical psychologist, Dr. Michelle Peacock at Greenwich Psychology and Wellness, specializes in guiding high-functioning clients through complex struggles to rediscover clarity to be more productive and live a fulfilling and healthy life. Dr. Peacock and her team offer a variety of services from therapy to life coaching services in adolescents, adults, couples, and families experiencing a variety of symptoms including anxiety, depression, trauma, obsessive-compulsive disorder, relationship problems, divorce, and life-transition difficulties.
"Individuals who are high functioning often do not think they could benefit from therapy or coaching. However, the significant responsibilities of executives, entrepreneurs and their families often create stressors that can be overwhelming," said Dr. Peacock.
She stresses that as many professionals experience symptoms of anxiety, depression and ADHD, it can lead to problems in other areas of life from relationships, procrastination, decreased productivity and difficulty managing a work-life balance.
A
conversation with Dr. Michelle Peacock on how to overcome conflict, address anxiety and more
ARTICLE BY KRISTIN BURNELL PHOTOGRAPHY BY ABBY COLE PHOTOGRAPHY
DNCL: WHAT TYPES OF SERVICES DO YOU PROVIDE AND WHAT IS YOUR MISSION?
MP: Our concierge treatment approach ensures personalized attention and providing clients with the highest level of psychological treatment to break through barriers, regain control, and build resilience. Therapy and coaching have the potential to empower individuals to overcome challenges, strengthen relationships, and lead more fulfilling lives. We are trained in and utilize trusted gold-standard treatments to ensure effectiveness including cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, schema therapy, motivational interviewing, and problem-solving therapy.
DNCL: WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO GO INTO CLINICAL PSYCHOLOGY?
MP: I instinctively knew that my purpose is to help people improve their mental health and to find their power and potential to have more meaningful and healthier lives. It is incredibly rewarding to hear and understand another person’s life story, often tragic and painful, and to be a guide for them as they positively change the trajectory of their lives and their family’s lives. I am grateful to my past, current and future clients for their trust in allowing me to be a part of their lives as they courageously wrestle with the challenges of life. I feel honored to work alongside others and help them navigate life more effectively.
I originally trained and worked as a forensic psychologist applying psychology to the legal field in the areas of criminal and family court including high-conflict divorce, violent behaviors, and threat assessment. Something most people, even many psychologists, are unaware of is that a forensic psychologist is most effective if they have strong clinical skills including competency in observation of behaviors, clinical interviewing, diagnosis, treatment planning, and communication skills.
Dr. Peacock offers a sanctuary of compassion and professionalism, where people of all ages can receive excellent care. She uses evidence based tools grounded in research, that prioritize the well-being of each individual and foster lasting healing. As our April issue is all about 'investment,' what's a better time than now to invest in your health, using the services provided at Greenwich Psychology and Wellness. They will help you reach your full potential while feeling healthy, happy and motivated no matter what obstacle life throws your way.
Dr. Michelle Peacock received her PhD from Drexel University and completed her inpatient internship at Friends Hospital.
To learn more and to book your appointment: greenwichpsychwell.com (203) 742-0500 522 E. Putnam Avenue 2nd Floor, Suite 13, Indian Field Plaza *Telehealth appointments also available
Lighting is Everything
• Installing indoor and outdoor lighting for over 55 years.
• Mark Mosello is a leading design expert in the field.
• Professionally light your art, home and landscaping with customized service.
• Smart & eco-friendly options.
• Certified generator dealer + installation.
• Our style illuminates dark spaces, creating a more enjoyable and luxurious atmosphere.
KINNEY LANE
A MEAL DELIVERY SERVICE FOCUSED ON WELLNESS
ARTICLE BY JULIA BRAATZ | PHOTOGRAPHY BY ABBY COLE PHOTOGRAPHY
Kinney Lane is a name that often sparks curiosity if you don’t know the story behind it. It’s rooted in the owners' rich family history and traditions on the street of Kinney Lane. The owner’s Italian grandparents along with her mother moved to Kinney Lane from Brooklyn into a 19th-century boarding house. Rachael would visit the house every summer and spend her days running through the fields, eating tomatoes straight from the vine, and gathering with family around the table to enjoy meals made with fresh, seasonal produce that was often sourced right from their own land. Those summers are what shaped Kinney Lane because they instilled a philosophy that celebrates quality ingredients and the joy of sharing a meal. Kinney Lane is also a tribute to Rachael’s mother who passed away from Covid in 2021. She had a special ability to bring everyone together around the table, which is what Kinney Lane continues to do as they foster cherished gatherings, meaningful connections, and the warmth around food.
Kinney Lane’s mission, inspired by this story, is to redefine how healthy food is brought to the market. They are a local delivery service offering fresh, chef-prepared meals that make healthy eating convenient and delicious.
CONTINUED >
They aim to provide busy moms and professionals with convenient and nutritious food that simplifies mealtime without sacrificing quality. Kinney Lane recognizes the hassle their customers must endure as they juggle their long list of other responsibilities. They saw a gap in the market for fresh, local produce and protein-rich meal options that are plant-based and animal-based and are also easy to prepare. Kinney Lane therefore creates thoughtfully prepared meals with a focus on quality ingredients. Their goal is to take the stress out of healthy eating, “allowing our customers to focus on what matters most.”
Kinney Lane shows their dedication to their customers through their rotating weekly menu, designed around customer favorites that have been refined through their years of experience. Their meals are made fresh daily with local ingredients and delivered on a two-day delivery cycle on Mondays and Wednesdays to ensure their meals stay fresh and flavorful throughout the week. Their salads are prepared fresh on the day of delivery and are among their most popular options as their fresh, quality ingredients really set them apart from any other salad, with touches of massaged kale, nuts, and seeds for crunch. Their dressings are also seed-oil-free. Kinney Lane prioritizes health and wellness, which is why
many of their entrées come with five different vegetable options available as well as each offering customizable protein swaps to suit individual preferences. They also offer mix-and-match vegetable and protein sides to ensure that customers can build meals that they truly love. And don’t forget dessert, even on a healthy diet, as they are Fairfield and Westchester County’s best-kept secret, being gluten-free, dairy-free, and refinedsugar-free. All the indulgence, none of the guilt!
“Allowing our customers to focus on what matters most.”
Kinney Lane continues to expand, opening a shop in New Canaan in 2023, where customers can pick up their meals. They’re excited to be growing this shop in the coming year to offer an even larger selection of foods. Their New Canaan location is special because the customers can see exactly where their food is getting made, adding a level of trust and authenticity that’s missing in other delivery services. The space is meant to feel like home, an inviting place to gather with friends, enjoy a meal, and feel part of a community, truly going back to Kinney Lane’s roots at the family dinner table.
Kinney Lane is a place of transparency, a place where quality food is served and a sense of belonging is maintained. Follow their Instagram @kinneylanefoods or learn more on their website kinneylane.com
Spring into the Market with Confidence
The spring market is in full bloom, and now is the perfect time to make your move. Whether you ' re buying, selling, or refinancing, our whiteglove service ensures a seamless, stress-free experience. We combine expert real estate guidance with tailored mortgage solutions to help you achieve your goals this season. Work with us.
INJECTABLES | BODY SCULPTING | IV THERAPY ADVANCED SKIN REJUVENATION | CLINICAL SKINCARE WEIGHT MANAGEMENT AND MUCH MORE! 23 Vitti Street New Canaan, CT 06840 203-594-1890 intentionalselfaesthetics.com
TERESA ALASIO MD Owner & Medical Director
Alina Shahzad, 16
Darien High School
HOW DO YOU GIVE BACK TO YOUR LOCAL COMMUNITY?
I volunteer for Feeding 500, the Maritime Aquarium, Darien Nature Center and at my local mosque. With my passion for henna, I have participated in school events, cultural celebration fairs, and charity fundraisers (offering henna services to raise funds for important causes); Additionally, I strive to celebrate and promote cultural diversity, educating others about the art and history of henna while fostering an appreciation for different traditions.
WHAT INSPIRES YOU TO GET INVOLVED?
I’m inspired by the joy and connection my henna art brings to others. Seeing people’s excitement when they receive a unique design motivates me to keep creating. Through this experience, I’ve learned the importance of cultural representation, the power of small businesses to build community, and the value of hard work and dedication in achieving personal goals.
WHAT DO YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT YOUR COMMUNITY?
I love how supportive my community is, always encouraging young entrepreneurs like me. Some of my favorite places to spend time include local coffee shops like Cafe Nero and Gregory's where I do homework with friends
ARTICLE BY SARAH BAMFORD
or read or occasionally take henna appointments. I also enjoy local libraries and bookstores, my place of worship (Stamford Islamic Center), and more comforting spaces.
WHAT PIECE OF ADVICE OR BIT OF INSPIRATION DO YOU WANT TO SHARE WITH YOUR PEERS?
Don’t be afraid to turn your passion into a purpose and disregard the opinions of others. Starting my henna business taught me that success comes from doing what you love, embracing challenges, and staying committed to growth. I was also so worried about what people would think. However, I found that it is the most rewarding feeling when you stop caring how things you do will look to people and just do it.
ARTICLE BY MEGAN SCHINELLA
Local Experiences
THE BEST PLACES TO GO AND THINGS TO DO IN OUR AREA.
You only live once; make the most of it! Choose your next adventure and broaden your horizons, increase your heart rate, and try something new that will fill your bucket.
1. Bingo Loco | A 3-hour-long interactive stage show complete with dance-offs, rave rounds, lip sync battles, throwback anthems, confetti showers, and prizes. Wallingford, CT.
2. Harbor View Landing | Newly built luxury cottages, private expansive deck, coastal Captain homes overlooking the beautiful Mystic, CT Harbor. With each of the nine units with a coastal-chic décor, you can relax in style! Mystic, CT.
3. Bubble Planet | An immersive experience with multiple rooms for photo ops, a bubble machine, and more! Fun for the whole family at the American Dream Mall. East Rutherford, NJ.
4. Foxwoods HighFlyer Zipline | The biggest in CT, launch from the rooftop of The Fox Tower 350 feet off the ground, a 33-story hotel tower. Feel the cool breeze in your hair and take in the incredible views, as you fly above the tree line at nearly 60mph! Mashantucket, CT.
5. HeliNY | Take in all the sights with this Helicopter Tour in NYC! There is no other way to take in the views of all major landmarks from the Statue of Liberty to Central Park in 15 minutes. New York, NY.
INVEST IN YOUR GREENS
ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD
PHOTOGRAPHY BY
JANIE JONES
Boost your health by adding a generous serving of fresh greens to your daily diet. While both cooked and raw vegetables offer health benefits, consuming them raw often provides the most nutrients. Raw greens are rich in fiber, antioxidants, and essential vitamins, helping to lower inflammation and reduce the risk of disease.
DANDELION GREENS:
Dandelion greens are a nutritious and easy addition to any meal, perfect for salads or cooked dishes. They are rich in vitamins A, C, K, chlorophyll, and fiber, making them a great choice for digestion and overall health. Their light flavor and texture enhance salads and sandwiches.
BROCCOLI:
Broccoli is often hailed as a nutritional powerhouse, packed with a variety of vitamins and minerals that support overall health. Known for being high in vitamins A, C, and K, it also contains important minerals like potassium, iron, and calcium. In addition, it’s a rich source of beta-carotene, flavonoids, and fiber. Whether raw or cooked, broccoli is an excellent choice for immune system support, making it one of the most nutrient-dense vegetables available.
BRUSSELS SPROUTS:
Brussels sprouts are a highly nutritious cruciferous vegetable, known for their vitamin C, K, and folate content, as well as carotenoids and fiber. These vegetables can be shaved, sliced, sautéed, boiled, or grilled, offering a range of flavors from mild to bitter, depending on preparation.
KALE:
Kale is loaded with essential nutrients such as vitamins C, B6, E, K, and manganese. It contains twice as much selenium as spinach and is an excellent source of calcium. Kale’s unique properties help bind to cholesterol and lower oxalate levels, which promotes calcium absorption and makes it suitable for those prone to kidney stones. Additionally, it provides eye health benefits, thanks to lutein, and its disease-fighting properties make it a great addition to salads, smoothies, and more.
ARTICHOKES:
Artichokes are not only delicious but also packed with fiber, which aids in digestion. They are a great source of plant protein, potassium, and antioxidants like polyphenols. Artichokes also provide essential nutrients, including vitamins C, K, folate, magnesium, and B vitamins.
ASPARAGUS:
Asparagus is versatile and can be enjoyed grilled, sautéed, baked, or even raw. Packed with vitamins C, E, B, K, folate, and copper, it’s a great source of fiber. It also helps lower cholesterol and provides a variety of antioxidants that aid in healing. Asparagus is a perfect side dish that complements both light and robustly flavored meals.
SPINACH:
Spinach is a popular green known for its mild flavor and impressive nutritional profile. Rich in vitamins A, C, K, as well as magnesium, potassium, and iron, spinach is great for overall health. It also provides antioxidants that support eye health and includes calcium for stronger bones. However, because spinach has a higher oxalate content, it should be consumed in moderation by those with a history of kidney stones.
events
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
APRIL 5TH
Saturdays at the Darien Nature Center
Darien Nature Center | 10:30 AM
Join Nature Educator and Animal Care Director Tori Scata on Saturdays for an animal meet and greet! Each week will be a new topic and will feature one of their fascinating and friendly animal ambassadors. Tori's program might also include activities such as feeding the animals, nature walks, ponding, or games related to the day's theme.
APRIL 6TH
2025 Unite to Fight 5K Run/Walk
Waveny Park | 7:30 AM
Join Filling in the Blanks for the Seventh Annual Unite to Fight 5K! Show your support, register as a fundraiser, walker, or runner, and spread community awareness of Filling in the Blanks’ mission. There will be prizes, t-shirts and food.
APRIL 6TH
The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee
New Canaan Library | 2:00 PM
A riotous musical, complete with audience participation, The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee is a delightful den of comedic genius. This fast-paced crowd pleaser follows an eclectic group of six mid-pubescents as they vie for the spelling championship of a lifetime. Six spellers enter; one speller leaves a champion!
APRIL 17TH - 19TH
The Great Egg Hunt
New Canaan Nature Center | 12:15 PM
Hop into some spring fun! Perfect for children, ages 2-10, the New Canaan Nature Center's egg hunts are designed for smaller groups (approximately 25 per hunt). In addition to the hunt, enjoy an animal meet & greet and self-guided spring scavenger hunt! Just BYOB (bring your own basket) for collecting eggs (which contain nature-themed prizes and nut-free sweets).
APRIL 26TH
Earth Day Celebration
Grace Farms | 10:00 AM
Join Grace Farms for their annual Earth Day Celebration, a day packed with nature-inspired learning and fun for all ages. Connect to the natural world by exploring the native landscapes surrounding the double LEED Gold Certified River building, and attend pop-up talks, demonstrations, and experiences led by their knowledgeable educators throughout the day.
APRIL 29TH
The Community Fund’s 46th Annual Volunteer Celebration
The Meadowlands at The DCA | 5:30 PM
Celebrate Darien’s extraordinary volunteers! Since 1979, The Community Fund of Darien has recognized individuals whose dedication makes a meaningful impact in our community. This special event is free and open to all—come be inspired and show your support. Sponsored by Brown Harris Stevens and Bankwell.
Memorable Cocktail Hour • Exquisite Dinner • for the 5th annual St. Jude Give to Live Gala at Westchester Country Club in Rye, New York.
