Fairfield, CT May 2024

MEET THE FAMILY BEHIND BLUE + BERRIES

Poised privately on 2 lush and flowering acres with glorious pool, raised spa, and entertaining patio overlooking pastoral neighboring property, “Meadow View” will captivate the most discerning Buyer. This esteemed Southport home is graced with a breathtaking front-to-back entry hall with French doors, 10’+ ceilings on the main level, sophisticated molding detail, cutting-edge smart home technology, and walls of windows throughout. The public rooms are spectacular: great room and dining room both with fireplaces, large office with built-ins, and gourmet designer kitchen with luxury brand appliances and separate breakfast room. Not a penny was spared in the construction and execution of this magnificent 6,466sf beauty with an additional 2,256sf in the walk-out lower level featuring the ultimate home theater with fireplace, hobby room, gym, and full bath with steam shower. There are 4+ bedrooms, which includes the sumptuous primary suite and expansive guest bedroom, and a 3rd floor bonus room with full bath.

Sam Kavarsky DC Founder, Complete Health CT

-Dr. Kim Nichols

May 2024 Publishers Letter

I don’t know about you but I love any opportunity to recognize the women in my life who just make life more rich and beautiful. Those women who enrich my life are my wife and daughter. Our wives, mothers and daughters are some of the most influential women in our lives.

And of course with Mother’s Day this month, all eyes are on moms… But it’s not just the biological mothers but the mother figures in our lives who have made an indelible impact on us.

It’s the family members, teachers, friends and neighbors doing awesome things in our communities, pouring into our lives - making themselves unforgettable and irreplaceable.

While it’s always important to shop local and support our area businesses, this month is the perfect time to patronize businesses owned by women in our communities. That’s one of my favorite parts of this role - connecting with and championing the best of the best when it comes to Fairfield’s women.  They are movers and shakers, builders and makers.

They are both seen and unseen. Their silent service blesses those who are under their care. Their attention to detail shows us something about beauty that can’t be seen or understood any other way.

I hope you’ll take a few minutes to send a text, make a phone call or get your kids on a video call with the women in your life who deserve recognition. It only takes a minute to brighten someone’s day and remind them how much you love them.

Thanks!

BRUCE BERNSTEIN, PUBLISHER @FAIRFIELDLIFESTYLEMAGAZINE

CITYLIFESTYLE.COM/FAIRFIELD

May 2024

PUBLISHERS

Bruce Bernstein | bruce.bernstein@citylifestyle.com

Mindy Katz | mindy.katz@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Samantha Beranbom samantha.beranbom@citylifestyle.com

ACCOUNT MANAGER

Pam Antonacchio | pam.antonacchio@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Heidi Curran Photography

Dariusz Terepka Photography

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson

TECHNICAL DIRECTOR Josh Klein

AD DESIGNER Rachel Chrisman

LAYOUT DESIGNER Andi Foster

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

city scene

WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

andHOW! Graphics Annual Open House 1: Greg Roberts, Russel Rumford, Jason Purzycki, Duke Aber, Eric Felitto, Jesse Hine, Katarina Van Steenbergen and Tim Honychurch 2: Sean Victoria , Justine Sullivan and Valerie Robers 3: Jason Purzycki and Chad Anderson 4: Duke Aber and William Gerber 5: David Condon and Greg Robers 6: Katarina Van Steenbergen 7: Kitti Fisher and Lindsay Sullivan

Photography by Bryan Murphy

107 John Street, Southport, CT 06890

(203)327-1212 | www.5thstreetadvisors.com

Shane Pendley, CFP® | spendley@5thstreetadvisors.com

Cesar Manent, CFP® | cesar@5thstreetadvisors.com

Abelardo Curdumí, CFP® | curdumi@5thstreetadvisors.com

city scene

Fairfield Lifestyle Magazine’s 2nd Anniversary Party at Elicit Brewing Co. 8: Chris Tarling and Pam Antonacchio 9: Dariusz Terepka, Katelyn Thaler, Debbi O’Keefe, Beverly Balaz and Robert Hojnacki 10: Publishers Bruce Bernstein and Mindy Katz 11: Ken and Samantha Pugh and Shaun Baldwin

12: Reesa and Michael Lake 13: Bill Feher, Victoria Fingelly, Johnny Schwartz and Bill Bodine 14: Alyssa Lavy, Ashley Langer and Sherri Rivera

by Michele Tereso Photography

Photography

Fairfield Lifestyle Magazine’s 2nd Anniversary Party at Elicit Brewing Co. 15: Micaela Marshall, Dave Condon and Drew Morrison 16: Bill and Lois Barker, Nube Siguenza, Marty Shapiro and Kathy Hoets 17: Jaclyn Picarillo and Chris Shea 18: Bruce Bernstein, Paul Herman, Samantha Beranbom and Mindy Katz 19: Anelise Brown and Allie Kreitler 20: Bruce Bernstein, Elana Tenenbaum Cline, Ashley Langer, Debbi O’Keefe, Christian P. Árkay-Leliever, Reesa Lake, Beverly Balaz, and Paul Herman 21: Monica and Mark McCall

by Michele Tereso Photography

Photography

Alina’s Cakes and Cookies Grand Opening 22: Tommy Febbraio, Alina Dancho and Donna Febbraio 23: Mirena Bogdan, Jessica Colon, Maribel Amigon, Amer Ilbahre, Alina Dancho. Liliia Vasylyniuk, Yasmine Morgridge, Laila Galal and Susana Velez 24: Helen and Malcolm Clarke 25: Amer, Alex and Altiia Ilbahre & Peter and Liliia Vasylyniuk 26: Sarah O’Brien and Eli Irimescu 27: Joseph and Rachel Kish & Von and Gregory Gil 28: Russel Dancho, Alina Dancho and Paul Mihai Photography by Josh Bernstein

HAPPY HOUR

Daily (closed Mondays) | 4-6pm

$4 beers, $8 house wines, $9 cocktails + food specials

LIVE MUSIC & DJs EVERY WEEKEND

55 Miller St., Fairfield southbayct.com (203) 955-1178

1/2 PRICED WINE Sun, Tue, Wed, Thu | 4-10pm 1/2 off bottles <$100, 30% off bottles $100+

A ROUNDUP OF NEWS

Freddy's Platos

Freddy's Platos, Not Just Tacos (but we have those, too) - providing the freshest house-made, Spanish-inspired, grab-n-go bites in Fairfield County (and beyond). Chef Freddy brings his Ecuadorian heritage plus years of training in Spanish Cuisine to the residents of Connecticut for weekend window service and year round private parties.  What better way to celebrate and create memories than having the "Truck Pull Up!" to make mouthwatering Quesadillas, Rice Bowls, Tacos & freddysplatos.com

Edgerton HVAC

Edgerton HVAC is the definitive example of mastery of heating, ventilation, and air conditioning.

Photography by Jenn Walker

Renowned for their unwavering dedication, this HVAC leader delivers unparalleled services. From cutting-edge installations to meticulous maintenance and efficient repairs, Edgerton HVAC guarantees an atmosphere of comfort and reliability. Their skilled technicians, equipped with expertise, transform residential and commercial spaces into havens of optimal climate control. With a commitment to customer satisfaction, Edgerton HVAC is the go-to choice for elevated HVAC experiences. EdgertonHVAC.com

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SoulOSoaring

SoulOSoaring is a sound and energy therapy company. Founder Terry Eldh is a professional musician and wellness practitioner. SoulOSoaring offers 1:1, group, and corporate sound sessions. Terry is devoted to teaching new and established sound healers at The Sound Healers Academy and through her course, Find Your Inner Mozart™: Music Theory for Sound Healers. Terry uses only the highest quality alchemy crystal singing bowls in her work, all made by Crystal Tones ©. SoulOSoaring.com

Ryan C. Sheppard | CPA,CFF Managing Partner

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Photography Provided by Edgerton

Photography by Kate Eisemann Pictures

H Salon

H boutique salon, located in the heart of Greenfield Hill, is more than just a salon. We pride ourselves on making our clients feel special and transformed. Beyond enhancing physical appearances, we focus on uplifting self-image. Our cozy salon offers a sanctuary for relaxation and rejuvenation. With skilled stylists and personalized services, we ensure each client leaves feeling confident and beautiful. Experience the difference at H boutique salon – where beauty meets empowerment.  hsalonfairfield.com

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Zoomin Groomin

Owned and operated by Fairfield locals, Zoomin Groomin delivers stress-free mobile dog grooming directly to your doorstep! We are

Photography by Marta Muryn Portrait

always 1:1 with your pet, never crate or cage, and always use eco-friendly products to ensure a happy and con venient experience for you and your pets. Say goodbye to inconvenient pet drop-offs and pick-ups. We know pets are family, and we prioritize a positive and caring grooming experience, making them look and feel their best.

Muryn

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Complete Health CT

Complete Health CT is a perfor mance-based chiropractic practice at 63 Unquowa Road in Fairfield. Our unique approach to chiropractic care focuses on optimizing each patient's metabolic health, nervous system func tion, and biomechanics. A wide range of modalities are offered during each treatment, including light therapy, electroacupuncture, soft tissue mobility, and chiropractic adjustments. If you are looking to be strong, lean, and healthy, this is the chiropractic practice for you. completehealthct.com

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Photography by Marta

Photography

by

Reminder

Savor these special moments in time with the people you love the most

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ARTICLE BY SAMANTHA SCHOENGOLD BERANBOM PHOTOGRAPHY BY HEIDI CURRAN PHOTOGRAPHY

BLUE + BERRIES SEAFOOD MARKET AND PASTRY CAFE

FAMILY TREASURES

Walking into Blue + Berries Seafood Market and Pastry Cafe, one can be impressed with the market offerings and the gorgeous fresh seafood. It could be the sushi that catches your eye

shut down for months and months, we decided to go forward with opening our kitchen to bring out our passion for hospitality. I also invited my mother and father into the kitchen with their

“WE DECIDED TO GO FORWARD WITH OPENING OUR KITCHEN TO BRING OUT OUR PASSION FOR HOSPITALITY.”

or the mouthwatering items in the cafe. As amazing as all Blue + Berries has to offer, it’s the warm and friendly atmosphere that sets it apart. Ji Yoon, along with her husband, Jonathan, her mom, Christine, and her father, Mr. Kim, is the family behind this local gem.

Even though restaurants and small businesses were closing left and right due to the pandemic, Ji and her family pushed through to make their collective dream a reality. Ji elaborates, “During Covid, when all the restaurants were

expertise in authentic Korean cooking and preparing seafood. We established a market with one side of fresh and cooked seafood and Korean prepared meals and another side of cafe and pastries.” Ji handles the operations and customer service, and Jonathan is the head chef, managing all the takeout seafood and pastries. Christine is a sushi chef who prepares all the Korean dishes, and Mr. Kim is in charge of all the fresh seafood, from buying to cleaning to cutting and selling.

Ji was inspired by infamous New York City culinary destinations like Eataly and Chelsea Market to bring a diverse and distinct gourmet quality marketplace to Fairfield. “With fresh seasonal ingredients, our market has a year-round main menu, as well as a seasonal menu, that reflects food trends and cultural varieties,” says Ji. Bestsellers include fresh salmon filets, poke bowls, and Bulgogi or marinated Korean Ribeye rice bowls. “Homemade authentic Kimchi and Jap Chae - Korean sweet potato noodles, are always requested by our dear customers,” Ji adds. And let’s not forget Jonathan’s strawberry chiffon cupcakes are among the bakery favorites. As for Ji and her family - which includes her three sweet daughters, Elle, Gianna, and Ariella, who visit the shop every day after schooltheir favorite meal is her husband’s specialty - Korean Spicy Fried Chicken and Steamed Pork Dumplings.

“IT IS ALSO VERY FULFILLING THAT I CAN GROW MY BUSINESS AND MY GIRLS AT THE SAME TIME.”

Blue + Berries - to those in the know - has become a must-stop for meals and treats between work, carpooling, and all the errands during the busy week. When Ji’s typically hectic schedule allows some free time, you’ll find the Fairfield mom at Fit Club Jiujitsu and Cardio Kick to recharge. She also enjoys relaxing at the beach and Sundays at Black Rock Church with her family.

Primarily, Ji appreciates being there for her customers, “I love being part of our customers’ big days, small days, and every day, helping them get fresh and delicious food for their families and guests. It is also very fulfilling that I can grow my business and my girls at the same time.”

BLUE + BERRIES

2205 Black Rock Tpke, Fairfield, CT 06825

(203) 296-2025

blueandberries.com | @blue_andberries

Ji Yoon, Owner of Blue + Berries

- Caroline Owens

ARTICLE BY SAMANTHA SCHOENGOLD BERANBOM PHOTOGRAPHY BY BORGATTA PHOTOGRAPHY

Garden Stroll

One of Pequot Library’s most anticipated Spring events is the Southport Garden Stroll. Both local residents and visitors alike flock to this annual outdoor affair. This premier fundraiser features local private gardens along with a schedule of fun activities for guests to enjoy. This year, the festivities kick off on June 6th with an evening cocktail party, followed by the next day’s events, including garden tours, food trucks, live music, raffle items, local vendors, and more on June 7th.

The title sponsor, On The Harbor, is a long-time supporter of Pequot Library. This deep-rooted partnership is best highlighted by the connection between the beautiful properties of OTH’s roster of luxury homes and the distinct gardens on display at the Stroll. Viewed as the bedrock of the community, Pequot Library brings Southport together through community events, education, and culture. This dedication, OTH notes, is imperative for the continued vibrancy and uniqueness of the village.

For more information and to purchase tickets to the Southport Garden Stroll, visit pequotlibrary.org

For more information about On The Harbor’s current sale listings, visit ontheharborrealestate.com

On the Harbor’s Executive Vice President of Sales, Libby McKinneyTritschler’s stunning garden.

“Pequot Library brings Southport together through community events, education, and culture.”

A MINDFUL MOM

ARTICLE BY SAMANTHA SCHOENGOLD BERANBOM

PHOTOGRAPHY BY HEIDI CURRAN PHOTOGRAPHY

Since moving here in 2019, I have consistently met some of the most incredible people in Fairfield, most notably - the women. Having a chance to highlight so many amazing women ranks as one of my favorite things about writing for the magazine. One of those incredible women is Dana Scinto. Radiant, outgoing,

Dana Scinto is Leading the Charge for Mental Health Access for Kids

The Child and Family Guidance Center Chairperson, Dana Scinto

“Mental health is everything.”

and warm-hearted, Dana is the kind of woman who can light up a room with her smile and her passion. Born in Bridgeport and raised in Fairfield -where she and her high school sweetheart husband continue to raise their own family, Dana’s work with The Child and Family Guidance Center is inspiring and, more importantly, making a real difference in the community. CFGC provides children and their families with mental health care along with complementary support and resources. The mental health of our children is critical, and organizations that provide access to comprehensive care and treatment are vital.

Q: CAN YOU TALK ABOUT YOUR INVOLVEMENT WITH THE CHILD AND FAMILY GUIDANCE CENTER, YOUR ROLE, AND WHAT THEY PROVIDE TO THE COMMUNITY?

A: I was first introduced to the CFGC through Ann Owens about sixteen years ago. After touring the facility and seeing the wonderful services the Center provides to families, I immediately knew this was something I wanted to be part of and became a Board

Member. I served on the board for ten years and was nominated Chairman of the Board about six years ago. I am very passionate and honored to lead this organization and advocate the services the staff provides for children and families in our community. The CFGC offers mental health treatment to almost 3,500 kids per year in the clinic, schools, and community.

Q: WORKING WITH CHILDREN OF ALL AGES CAN BE CHALLENGING, ESPECIALLY GETTING THEM TO EXPRESS THEMSELVES. WHAT IS THE CENTER’S APPROACH TO EMOTIONAL, SOCIAL, AND PSYCHOLOGICAL WELL-BEING AND, MORE SPECIFICALLY, THEIR APPROACH TO THERAPY?

A: The main focus is to address the needs of the child (emotional, social, and psychological) and set them up for success. In order to do this, we include the whole family. Whether it’s a single-family house, being raised by grandparents, or, sadly, a broken home. We not only want that child to survive, we want them to thrive, and all of that can be done with the support of family.

Johanna Morales, Carolina Pereira, Dana Scinto,Jury Caceres, Charles Millard

Q: WHAT LED YOU TO YOUR WORK WITH THEM AND YOUR PASSION FOR ACCESS TO MENTAL HEALTH?

A: Believe it or not, my dad received services from the CFGC as a young boy. Our society puts so much energy into our physical health. We’ve become obsessed with our appearance and our image. However, we have neglected the health of our minds. Taking care of our psyche is just as important as our body. A healthy state of the mind makes life easier to handle.

Q: HOW HAS PRIORITIZING MENTAL HEALTH AFFECTED YOU AND YOUR FAMILY, ESPECIALLY RAISING TEENAGERS IN THIS DAY AND AGE?

A: Mental health is everything. Mind over matter. I’m very open and transparent when communicating with my daughters. I’ve always spoken freely about emotions, the importance of relationships, and expressing their feelings. As a mom of two teenage girls, I think having these conversations with my daughters and their friends is very important. Teenagers today face many challenges and are sometimes fed with misinformation and misconceptions on social media. We make yearly appointments for physicals, dental cleanings, etc. As parents, it’s also our duty to do regular mental check-ins with our kids.

Q: CAN YOU SHARE SOME ANECDOTES OR SUCCESS STORIES OF HOW THE CHILD AND FAMILY GUIDANCE CENTER HAS POSITIVELY IMPACTED INDIVIDUALS AND FAMILIES IN NEED?

A: Last year 1,500 kids received treatment from the CFGC outpatient clinic, and 1600 received services from the mobile crisis unit. Our staff is extremely diverse in culture and language. We have 130 dedicated clinicians and care managers.

CEO Michael Patota with Dana

“I am very passionate and honored to lead this organization and advocate the services the staff provides for children and families in our community.”

Most speak a second language, including Spanish, Portuguese, and Creole-French.

Q: HOW CAN THE COMMUNITY GET INVOLVED WITH THE ORGANIZATION?

A: We are hosting our Annual Gala on Thursday, June 20 at The Inn at Longshore. It’s a fun evening where we recognize and honor people who have positively supported the Center. Please check our website for event details and other ways to support our organization. cfguidance.com

Q: WHAT IS THE BEST ADVICE YOU’VE EVER RECEIVED?

A: You can’t change people.  YOU can only change the way they affect you.

Q: WHO &/OR WHAT INSPIRES YOU?

A: My parents and my faith.

Q: WHAT IS YOUR MOTTO OR WORDS TO LIVE BY:

A: Live with compassion and grace.

INDIVIDUAL & GROUP NUTRITION COUNSELING CONSULTING · WELLNESS STRATEGY

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ARTICLE BY SAMANTHA SCHOENGOLD BERANBOM

Leslie

As we celebrate the Women of Fairfield in this issue, it’s only fitting to introduce Leslie Scotto of Leslie Scotto Events. This full-service event planning company specializes in celebrations, focusing on Bar and Bat Mitzvahs, social occasions, and non-profit functions. She’s done it all from formal weddings to relaxed beach parties. Blending her creative side with her business mind, Leslie is imaginative, strategic, and savvy. She always provides an individualized approach, taking care of her clients’ vision and needs.

After an initial meeting with potential clients, Leslie likes to understand their wants and needs to better assess how she can help and add her expertise to the event. The most important aspect of that first meeting is discussing the budget. “It is important for me to know what clients want to spend from the very beginning,” explains Leslie. This is crucial to moving forward in the planning. “I can recommend the right vendors and help navigate decisions to stay within the planned costs.” No matter the size or budget, she works closely with each client. “The client is intricately involved in as much of the design and planning as they want. They approve everything. My job is options. I offer them a variety of ways to achieve their goal. Together, we make it happen!”

Capitol Interactive Photography

Pamela Einarsen Photography

James Grout Photography

Leslie Scotto Callalily Studios

“Overall, I get to be part of people’s stories. They throw events for special reasons, and I get to help them do that so they can focus on their guests and have a great time.”

The key to being a successful event planner is perfecting that delicate balance of incorporating client input with foresight and know-how. Unexpected challenges come with the territory. Guided by her two decades of industry experience, Leslie is known for her thoughtful, direct approach and the wisdom she can extend. She is that soothing strength that zigs with the unavoidable zags. She elaborates, “A great planner means you must always be calm when something unforeseen inevitably happens. The key is to breathe and then let your experience kick in to find a solution. Compromise is also key, and I listen to my clients to find alternatives that we are both happy with.” Even though social media and platforms like Pinterest may make a DIY approach look appealing, nothing proves as successful and stress-free as working with professionals. To those planning an upcoming party, Leslie advises hiring an experienced team whose vision and values align with your own.

When the party is over and all the excitement and energy returns to normal, Leslie sees this job as truly extraordinary. Helping to create milestones by bringing clients’ dreams to life is the most rewarding. “Overall, I get to be part of people’s stories. They throw events for special reasons, and I get to help them do that so they can focus on their guests and have a great time.”

When you need help planning an upcoming affair, Leslie Scotto Events will set every beautiful detail of your festivities on course for fun and everlasting memories while steering the behind-thescenes. So, c’mon, let’s celebrate and have a good time!

Leslie Scotto Events, LLC 738 Reef Rd, Fairfield, CT 06824 (203) 521-6584

lesliescottoevents.com | @lesliescottoevents

James Grout Photography

James Grout Photography

Luanne Kelly Photography

L o c a t e d o n o u r p r iv a t e t r a ils ,

o u r o f f - le a s h g r o u p n a t u r e

h ik e s a r e t h e p e r f e c t a c t iv it y

f o r y o u r p u p

activedogllc@gmail.com

www.activedog.org

@activedogllc Active DogLLC

• Personal Care

• Transportation

• Medication Reminders

• Dementia Care

Essay types include:

Common Application Essays

Supplements

Short-answer Questions

Transfer Essays

Scholarship Essays

Personal Statements

Parent Letters of Support

• Family Respite

• Meal Preparation

• Light Housekeeping

• Fall Prevention

@ ligh tedits.com

Light Edits

Owner and Executive Director Jennifer Kenny

CURTAIN CALL

Jennifer Kenny of Fairfield Performing Arts Studio

Q: TELL ME ABOUT YOURSELF

A: As the owner and Artistic Director of Fairfield Performing Arts Studio (FPAS), I’ve had the privilege of calling Fairfield home for many years. Alongside my husband Bill, we have businesses at 1899 Bronson Road, FPAS, William Kenny Associates (a landscape architectural and environmental firm), and Native (a native plant nursery). Our journey with 1899 Bronson Road began just over 2.5 years ago, and transforming this property into a haven for creativity has become a true labor of love for us. We have two children living in Brooklyn, Taylor, our talented Motion Designer, and Bailey, a dedicated 5th grade teacher.

For me, passion is the driving force behind everything I do. Whether nurturing my students’ talents or cherishing moments with family, I pour my heart and soul into every endeavor. Over the past 16 years, I’ve I dedicated myself wholeheartedly to guiding and mentoring my students, helping them unlock their full potential onstage and in life.

Q: WHAT IS YOUR COMMUNITY CONNECTION?

A: I am rooted in Fairfield, which I’ve proudly called home for over 25 years! Together with my husband, we’ve nurtured our family in this vibrant community,

ARTICLE BY SAMANTHA SCHOENGOLD BERANBOM

PHOTOGRAPHY BY DARIUSZ TEREPKA PHOTOGRAPHY

Jennifer leading her Broadway Bound class.

“Teaching has been an absolute joy, allowing me to immerse myself in what I love while cultivating meaningful connections with the incredible individuals I am privileged to work with.”

watching our children thrive through their education in the Fairfield Public Schools. My affection for this town runs deep; it’s a place that truly encompasses everything one could desire. Most of all, the people of Fairfield have captured my heart with their warmth and kindness. I am so thrilled to have my studio in the heart of Greenfield Hill Village; it’s a lovely community here in the village.

Q: WHY DID YOU FIRST OPEN FPAS AND HOW HAS IT EVOLVED OVER THE YEARS?

A: In 2008, I wanted to share my passion for acting and theater with the community by founding FPAS, an endeavor that has blossomed into a gift. Teaching has been an absolute joy, allowing me to immerse myself in what I love while cultivating meaningful connections with the incredible individuals I am privileged to work with. In today’s digital age, where virtual interactions often dominate, fostering genuine connections has become increasingly vital. At FPAS, we recognize the importance of promoting in-person connections—between students, themselves, and their community. From the beginning, FPAS has been a place where students can express themselves freely, without judgment. Our focus has always been on imparting life skills that promote positive self-image, focus, boundless confidence, and group trust—a mission that remains steadfast to this day. While FPAS has undergone remarkable growth since its inception, with our student body expanding from a humble five to over a hundred students weekly and our summer camps swiftly reaching capacity, our core values and mission have remained unwavering. Despite our growth, the essence of FPAS—nurturing creativity, building confidence, and fostering genuine connections—remains at the heart of everything we do.

Q: CAN YOU EXPLAIN YOUR APPROACH AND HOW IT CAN DIFFER IN A CLASS WITH SCHOOL-AGED KIDS VS PRIVATE LESSONS WITH COLLEGE-BOUND TEENS OR ADULTS?

A: At FPAS, we offer both group classes and private lessons, each tailored to meet the unique needs and goals of our students. Group classes provide a dynamic environment focused on collaborative activities, community-building

exercises, and rehearsing our plays. Even within these group settings, students receive personalized attention and feedback to nurture their growth and cultivate the confidence to shine on stage. For those seeking a more individualized approach, private lessons offer a customized experience designed to address specific areas of improvement. Whether mastering public speaking, enhancing self-confidence, refining speech skills, or preparing for college auditions, each private session is meticulously tailored to the student’s objectives. I work closely with college-bound students, assisting them in selecting monologues and ensuring they feel fully prepared for every audition. Our student roster spans a diverse range, from industry professionals seeking to hone their craft to beginners embarking on their acting journey, each receiving the foundational techniques essential for their training. At FPAS, our commitment is to empower every student to reach their fullest potential, regardless of background or experience level.

Q: WHAT SKILLS ARE IMPORTANT FOR A PERFORMER TO DEVELOP?

A: At its core, acting lies in the ability to authentically tell “the story” and convey truth through one’s performance. Acting, stripped down to its most fundamental level, is a beautifully simple art form—a matter of embodying the character and truthfully portraying their experiences. It’s about tapping into that innate sense of imagination and playfulness that we all possessed as children when we effortlessly slipped into different roles while playing with friends. The key to compelling acting is maintaining that sense of playfulness and sincerity, speaking from the heart, and allowing oneself to fully immerse in the character’s journey. By embracing this authenticity and staying true to the essence of the story, performers can create truly captivating and impactful performances that resonate deeply with audiences.

Q: AS THE WARMER WEATHER IS APPROACHING, WHAT TYPES OF CLASSES AND CAMPS DO YOU OFFER OVER THE SUMMER?

A: At FPAS Summer Camp, we offer a comprehensive and immersive experience that combines full-scale performances, drama training, and engaging drama games. Our camp

environment prioritizes physical and emotional safety, creating the optimal conditions for growth and learning, both as actors and individuals, all while ensuring a fun, exciting, and inspirational atmosphere. Campers are grouped by age and rotate between various training classes when not actively preparing for the final performance. From musical theater and acting to dancing, singing, improvisation, and arts and crafts, our diverse curriculum offers a well-rounded approach to theatrical education. Rehearsals and preparations for the performance commence early in the camp session, with dedicated time allocated to expand and refine the production as the camp progresses. Drama games are seamlessly integrated throughout the training and rehearsal process to keep campers engaged and energized. Open to children entering grades 3-11 in the fall of 2024. FPAS Summer Camp offers an unforgettable opportunity for young performers to hone their skills, unleash their creativity, and showcase their talents in a supportive and nurturing environment. By the end of the threeweek session, audiences will be delighted by the remarkable performances delivered by our talented campers.

Q: WHAT DID YOU FIND THE MOST REWARDING AS A PERFORMER? AS A TEACHER?

A: As a performer, there’s nothing quite as fulfilling as the transformative experience of embodying a character onstage. It’s about shedding your identity and fully embracing the essence of the character, merging their traits with your own to create a seamless fusion of identities. The electrifying energy of a live audience adds an unparalleled thrill to the performance, fueling the excitement and intensity of each moment. Yet, as a teacher, the most gratifying aspect for me is the profound impact of mentorship. Witnessing the growth and evolution of my students over the years fills me with immense pride and joy. Many of them, who started their journey with me, have gone on to pursue successful careers in the performing arts—some as professional actors, others as educators, and some even as colleagues working alongside me. It’s a continuous cycle of mentorship that not only strengthens our bond but also enriches us all, empowering each of us to reach new heights of self-discovery!

fairfieldperformingartsstudio.com

Sadie Smith, Ginny Levasseur with Jenny at the studio.

MAY 3RD

Adam J. Lewis:

A Decade, A Legacy

Birthday Celebration

Hartford HealthCare Amphitheater 6:30 PM

Come celebrate 10 years with cocktails, dinner and dancing. Enjoy a special performance by the United Girls Choir of Bridgeport at AJLA. Visit ajlacademy.org/gala for more information and to purchase tickets.

MAY 5TH

Solitary Man:

Neil Diamond Tribute

The Bijou Theatre | 2:00 PM

Will Chalmers has been performing his Neil Diamond Tribute Concert since 2002. His show appeals to all ages and he loves to get the audience involved by encouraging them to clap and sing along. Will’s natural resemblance to Neil Diamond, his flawless replication of Neil’s singing voice, combined with his outstanding stage presence has been captivating audiences wherever he goes. bijoutheatrect.spacecrafted.com

MAY 7TH

Chamber Coffee Connect

Redline Restorations | 8:00 AM

Bring a friend and network or just learn about new and existing businesses in the area. Make new friends and business contacts. Non-Members $5. Register online. fairfieldctchamber.com

MAY 10TH

Stratfield Shop & Stroll

Lincoln Park | 4:00 PM

Come shop local for all your Spring celebrations. Enjoy local artisans, vendors and food trucks. Fun for the whole family!

MAY 10TH

On-Field Movie Night

Haydon Softball Field

Enjoy an on-field movie night at Haydon featuring Angels In The Outfield! Music, Proof Pizza food truck, & fun starts at 7:15 pm. The movie will start at dark. Bring your blankets and lawn chairs for the on-field viewing experience! fairfieldrecreation.com

JUNE 6TH

Shake It For Shea Gala

FTC | 7:30 PM

A fundraiser for Long QT Syndrome research. Featuring entertainment from the amazing Bobby Attiko Band. Enjoy a night of eating, drinking, and dancing, while supporting an incredibly worthwhile cause supporting Long QT Syndrome research at the Mayo Clinic’s Sudden Death Genomics Lab, led by Dr. Michael Ackerman, via our Hearts in Harmony Foundation. For tickets and donations visit givebutter. com/ShakeForShea2024

HANDMADE BREAKING

This recipe is quick and easy to make with just a few simple steps. It tastes great on its own, but dipping it in olive oil infused with fresh herbs adds an extra level of flavor.

INGREDIENTS:

• 1 ¾ cups warm water

• 2 ½ teaspoons sugar

• 1 package active dry yeast

• 4 cups flour

• 2 teaspoons salt

• 4 tablespoons olive oil

• Optional:

• Fresh rosemary

• Coarse sea salt

• Fresh pressed garlic

INSTRUCTIONS:

Use a stand mixer with a fitted dough hook, and stir together the water and sugar. Sprinkle the yeast on top and stir again. Set mixture aside for 5 minutes. Mixture should be foamy. Next, add the flour and salt and mix on low until a shaggy dough forms. Increase speed and mix for an additional 4-5 minutes. Brush a large bowl with olive oil. Transfer the dough to the bowl and cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a damp towel. Set aside for about 1 to 1 ½ hours until the dough has doubled in size.

Brush a 9x13-inch baking dish with 2 tablespoons of oil. Uncover the dough and rub hands with olive oil. Slide your hands under the dough and fold it onto itself. Continue to work your way around the edge of the bowl, folding the dough onto itself until there is a ball that you can lift from the bowl. Place the dough in the prepared pan and press the dough to the edges. Cover the pan with plastic wrap or a damp towel and set aside to rise for about 45 minutes until the dough has doubled in size.

Preheat the oven to 425°F. Drizzle the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil over the dough. Rub your hands with olive oil and use your fingers to make indentions on the surface of the dough. Sprinkle it with salt and rosemary and any desired toppings. Bake for 20-30 minutes or until golden brown.