Fairfield Family Health is your premier multi-disciplinary integrative medical practice, dedicated to providing exceptional care for all ages. Our mission is to redefine healthcare, focusing on uncovering and addressing the root causes of disease. We believe in partnering with you on your journey to better health, ensuring your voice is always heard. Our team of expert naturopathic physicians and conventional medicine practitioners work together to meet all your healthcare needs. At Fairfield Family Health, we offer a wide range of clinical services, including:
AREAS OF FOCUS:
LYME DISEASE | IV NUTRIENT THERAPY | AUTOIMMUNE CONDITIONS
INTEGRATIVE PSYCHIATRY | I NTEGRATIVE NEUROLOGY | WOMEN’S HEALTH
With a wonderful Greenfield Hill location, this very spacious 3220 square foot, four Bedroom, two and one-half Bath Colonial is beautifully situated on a private 1.01 acre property. Special features include a front to back Living Room with fireplace, an expansive Family Room, a glorious Sun Room opening onto the Chef’s Kitchen with Dining Area and adjacent Deck, and a very spacious Primary Bedroom Suite. Further complement to this impeccably maintained home is the newly finished, very versatile lower level with laminate flooring providing an additional 960 square feet of living space, great storage and access to the attached Two- Car Garage. Within easy access of all Fairfield amenities; enjoy the convenience of great dining, shopping, beaches, excellent educational and cultural venues, and train service to and from New York City!
August 2024 Publisher’s Letter
I hope this letter finds you in good health and high spirits.
This issue is always one of my favorites. I suppose because of the immense joy that children bring to their families and the significant impact they make on their communities.
Children are not merely the hope for a brighter tomorrow; they are the foundation upon which our society stands. Their innocence, curiosity, and boundless potential have the power to shape the world in ways we can only imagine. Kids represent our hardest work and greatest investment and we are happy to highlight some of Fairfield's kids in this issue.
Secondarily, who could forget pets? The special kind of companionship can be a transformative experience for children and adults alike. Pets provide us with unconditional love, the opportunity to learn, grow and develop essential life skills in a nurturing environment. And who could ignore the bond between kids and their furry or feathery friends? The bond is often deep and meaningful, fostering qualities like empathy, responsibility, and companionship.
Although children are of infinitely more value, what children and pets share in common is that they need us. Our care, attention and intention shapes how they are raised and who they become. We hope this issue inspires you to pour a little extra into the children and pets in your life this month.
Cheers!
BRUCE BERNSTEIN, PUBLISHER
August 2024
PUBLISHERS
Bruce Bernstein | bruce.bernstein@citylifestyle.com
Plasma pen delivers a brighter, more contoured youthful appearance to the skin. The results of the treatment are virtually immediate and incredibly long lasting without the need for fillers or surgical correction. Plasma pen technology is revolutionizing what is possible in skin revitalization, tone and texture. Dr. Gould strives to bring her clients the latest innovation and was the first physician in Connecticut to bring Plasma Pen to her practice.
DR GOULD'S PLASMA PEN BEFORE & AFTER
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
Screening of Not the Same Clarence at SHU Community Theatre, Co-presented by the Alzheimer’s Association, Connecticut Chapter. 1: Carolyn DeRocco and Maria Tomasetti 2: Kristen Cusato, Jim Naughton, Brian Russell, Sam Russell, Carolyn DeRocco and Chris Kalafus 3: Professor Rui Liu 4: Kristen Cusato and Mark Robbins 5: Brian Russell and Sam Russell 6: Matt Oestreicher 7: Mary-Kay Harrity, Bobbi Tar and Cheryl Podob
ALZHEIMER’S ASSOCIATION
ALZHEIMER’S ASSOCIATION
ALZHEIMER’S ASSOCIATION
LISA DETULLIO RUSSELL
LISA DETULLIO RUSSELL
LISA DETULLIO RUSSELL
LISA DETULLIO RUSSELL
Shake it for Shea (Hearts in Harmony Foundation) at FTC 8: FTC is party ready. 9: Matt Felice, Josh Braunstein, Jesse Tanenbaum, Ian Edery, Ashley Edery, Mark Greenfield, Lauren Braunstein, Kira Greenfield, Dana Bernstein and Jessica Khasin 10: Mark Greenfield 11: Kelly Malone, Morgan Sheres, Lauren Braunstein, Kira Greenfield, Amy Elkind, Danielle Felice and Remy Strause 12: Mark Greenfield, Dr. Michael Ackerman and Kira Greenfield 13: Mark and Kira Greenfield 14: A night to remember! Photography by
Fred Marcus Photography
Operation Hope’s 21st Annual Evening of Hope 15: Jay Levy, Sharon Levy, Kim Horsford and Venoal Fountain 16: Scott Renzulli, Laurie Renzulli, Laurie Markus, Kim Sherman, Scott Pollack, Patrick Monteleone, Jon Angel and Evie Angel 17: Emily O’Keefe, Debbi O’Keefe, Ed O’Keefe 18: Craig Reynolds, Sean Sullivan, Patrick McCormack, Margaret Reynolds and Sheila Sullivan 19: Carla Miklos and Beverly Balaz 20: Frank Polley, Maureen Polley, Debbi O’Keefe, Mary Grella and Glenn Grella 21: Bill Gerber and Debbi O’Keefe
Wealth Management F inancial Planning Fiduciary Standards
Delicious Arm Candy
The Bijou Theatre
Come experience "The Stage Built By History" - the iconic Bijou Theatre! Our historic theater has charmed audiences since 1909 and is the oldest live entertainment theatre in the country. The modern-day Bijou Theatre remains an important part of Fairfield County's performance arts expansion, with new ownership and management at the helm. Offering live music & entertainment, comedy shows, theatre company, private parties, and corporate events of all kinds. We can't wait to see you! bijoutheatrect.net
Toy
Toy Polloi is a fun, local mom-owned shop packed with amazing toys, games, art supplies, books, cool kids accessories, and craft kits. We handpick our collection from small, independent brands worldwide, all known for their top-notch quality, creativity, and eco-friendly practices. Above all, we’re on a mission to hunt down the perfect gifts, whether you're celebrating a classmate's birthday or a special milestone for your own little one. toy-polloi.com
by Jane Stevens
Ryan C. Sheppard | CPA,CFF Managing Partner
Photography
Polloi
Painting and Restoration Services
Le Woof
Le Woof, a certified organic pet care and lifestyle brand, offers shampoos, cleansing mists, and more in natural scents for grooming and everyday use. Made with human-grade and canine-approved ingredients, Le Woof was born when Founder Hila Raz Harris created homemade, natural remedies for her Hurricane Sandy rescue, Shuggie. Le Woof’s formulations revitalize and refresh dogs’ coats naturally. These products are perfect for the canines you know and love after their adventures in the wild. lewoofbrand.com
Photography by Jonathan Cooper
Homes for the Brave
Join Homes for the Brave for the 10th Annual Step Up for the Brave, supporting Veterans experiencing homelessness. Participate virtually from August 12-16 by logging your steps online to win prizes. On August 17, join us at 9am at Sacred Heart University’s Martire Family Arena in Fairfield for a 90-minute Stair Climb or Walking Challenge. Register today and show your support! homesforthebrave.org
BY REDLINE AUTOMOTIVE RESTORATIONS
Photography by Jeanine Santilli
Wired Wash Car Wash & Detailing
Wired Wash Car Wash & Detailing on 484 Tunxis Hill Rd in Fairfield is a family owned company dedicated to clean cars. We have a detail center with experienced detailers and an unlimited car wash club with all the perks. Relax with coffee in our detailing lounge while your car has a spa day. Chris the owner is VERY meticulous about a good wash and is obsessed with perfection. We can’t wait to welcome you! WiredWash.com
Playhouse Fairfield
Playhouse Fairfield is our neighborhood's premier play space and party venue for kids 1-7. We feature daily open play from 9am-7pm with climbers, ball pits, and slides. Parties are a magical experience with custom themes and delicious pizza in our safari-themed setting. We are dedicated to providing parents and caregivers a whimsical community space. We recently added classes including, Circle Time and Slime Making. Located underneath Old Navy in the Black Rock Turnpike shopping center. playhousefairfield.com
Photography Provided by Playhouse Fairfield
Top Dog!
Zoomin Groomin is the most stress-free and convenient grooming experience.
ARTICLE BY SAMANTHA SCHOENGOLD BERANBOM
PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARTA MURYN PORTRAIT
Anelise & Bill of Zoomin Groomin Fairfield with Oso.
Nothing is better than hugging your dog after he’s been to the groomer. But it’s always hard to get an appointment. And getting there is never easy. And although my sweet dog is happy to meet new friends, the experience typically makes him nervous. We recently spoke to Billy and Anelise, the owners of Zoomin Groomin, a first-class service that is taking the anxiety and difficulty out of grooming for both pets and their owners.
FLM: HAVE YOU ALWAYS BEEN DOG LOVERS?
A: I have always loved dogs, I grew up in a family of five kids and two dogs which made for a pretty lively household. I wouldn’t have had it any other way. Billy and I have a Goldendoodle named Oso who has become the Zoomin Groomin mascot. I love working with dogs of all shapes, sizes, and personalities. Being surrounded by dogs every day is so much fun, and really rewarding.
B: I have always been a huge dog lover—life is definitely better with dogs around! Growing up, we always had family dogs. I got our dog Oso about 8 years ago while I was living in Oregon. We do something fun together almost every day like trail runs, beach swims, or hikes. Getting out together and sharing these activities makes us both happy!
FLM: WHAT WAS THE INSPIRATION FOR STARTING ZOOMIN GROOMIN?
A+B: It all started with our dog, Oso. He is incredibly easygoing and loves the attention of being groomed, but he absolutely hates being crated. Dropping him off at the groomers for hours at a time was always really stressful for him. It was also really time consuming for us both working full time jobs to coordinate drop-offs and pick-ups. Having a groomer come to our home and provide one-on-one attention was really intriguing because it was so much less stressful for Oso and much easier for us. Being involved with dogs while providing customer service excellence was incredibly appealing to both of us. We both come from the customer service industry so we aim to provide the best possible customer experience, which we felt was largely lacking in the grooming industry. We started in March 2024, and have been loving it ever since. We have been growing fast, and are excited to be getting our second van!
FLM: WHAT SETS YOU APART?
A+B: Our goal is to provide the most stress-free and convenient grooming experience for both pets and their owners. We come directly to your home, eliminating the need for time-consuming dropoffs and pickups. Being on their own turf helps a lot of dogs remain more calm and comfortable. We customize our grooming approach to fit each dog’s unique needs to help keep the experience pleasant. Every dog is different with a distinct personality and we tailor our approach to each individual dog. We have a fully contained state of the art van, so there is no need for us to hookup to water or power. We meet you at the door, bring the dog to inside our
“I love working with dogs of all shapes, sizes, and personalities. Being surrounded by dogs every day is so much fun, and really rewarding. ”
van to groom, and then bring the dog back to the front door when we are done. A lot of our regular customers will leave us a key if they are not home, so we can just get the dog from the house and drop the dog right back off inside without the owner having to be there. We are always one-on-one with each pet and never use crates or cages. Some of our favorite feedback comes from customers whose dogs typically have issues with grooming but felt more comfortable and happy with our service. We take pride in our customized approach to customer service for pets and pet owners, which is the foundation of why we started this business.
FLM: WHAT SERVICES DO YOU PROVIDE?
A+B: We groom all breeds. Our van is spacious enough to comfortably groom even extra-large dogs, like the 100-pound Bernese Mountain Dog we regularly see. Our most popular services include a bath and blowout with a tidy trim, or with a full cut. All of our services always come with an ear cleaning, teeth cleaning, and nail trim. We also offer a range of custom services, such as tick and flea removal, and oatmeal shampoo baths. For clients interested in more artistic grooming options, we love offering creative grooms like sculpting and coloring. Mats are a really overlooked aspect of a dog’s health and can cause a lot of discomfort, bruising, hot spots, and infections. Maintaining a regular grooming schedule for dogs with long hair coats and brushing at home is essential. Services like de-shedding for dogs with shorter double coats, are also important. It helps prevent hot spots and promotes the distribution of natural oils in the skin.
FLM: WHAT ADVICE CAN YOU GIVE NEW PET OWNERS?
A+B: If you have a puppy, get them comfortable with being handled and groomed as early as possible! Start brushing, getting them used to baths, handling their paws/nails, and getting them used to being blow dried. We work with a lot of puppies, and take an easy, slow approach to get them used to everything at first. Once they get comfortable with things, they love their grooming appointments!
FLM: WHAT DO YOU FIND THE MOST REWARDING?
A: I love seeing the reactions of freshly groomed dogs when we drop them off back at their home. A lot of our clients are busy parents, so seeing their kids hugging their pet, saying how soft they are or how they look like a puppy again, brings me so much joy. Dogs are part of our families, so seeing that affection and excitement from family members after a grooming session really makes me happy.
“I have always been a huge dog lover—life is definitely better with dogs around!”
B: For me, it’s the most rewarding to groom older dogs or those with health complications where traveling to a traditional groomer is too difficult or stressful. I love helping pet owners who have struggled in the past to get their dogs groomed and now feel relieved to provide that care for their dogs. Hearing their stories and receiving feedback about the positive impact of our services for those dogs is amazing. It’s wonderful to see both the dogs and their owners feel good after a much needed spa day.
Zoomin Groomin Fairfield
203-405-0036
@zoomingroominfairfield
HAPPY TRAILS AND WAGGING TAILS
ARTICLE BY SAMANTHA SCHOENGOLD BERANBOM PHOTOGRAPHY BY DARIUSZ TEREPKA PHOTOGRAPHY
Influenced by the group dog treks he and Tobias would see daily, Eric thought he could do this- even better. Bringing together his lifelong love of the great outdoors from a childhood exploring in Maine and his expertise, dedication and connection to caring for his dogs, Active Dogs LLC was established in 2011. It has grown from just Eric and his one van to a dedicated dog-loving staff with 1000 active clients and 650 acres of private land between the properties Eric owns for the business. “I am very proud of what we have built,” explains the now father of 3 boys and three dogs. “This was a one-person operation just 12 years ago. With a lot of hard work and perseverance, we now have over 50 people who work here, two huge parcels of land for hikes with client’s dogs and a large farm for hiking and boarding.” Nature hikes and more with Active Dog.
Shortly after the 2008 financial crisis, former options trader Eric Bleile felt it was time to pivot his career. He decided to return to graduate school at the University of Connecticut at night but would often spend his days hiking with his dog, Tobias. Those trails where Eric and his best friend would bond would soon inspire another consequential decision.
Active Dog owner, Eric Bleile with a group of hiking regulars.
Active Dog is not just another run-of-themill dog walking service. It is a unique company that specializes in group off-leash nature hikes, providing a level of adventure that is unparalleled. They offer transportation and effective communication with photos and videos of the dogs in action during their funfilled day. Private hikes and walks are available for clients who need a more one-on-one experience. Boarding services which are held at their 190-acre farm in Bethlehem, CT, are also unmatched; they thoughtfully steer clear of the typical crates and kennels. Offering spacious rooms in a beautifully renovated horse barn, plenty of outdoor activities, and extra services like grooming and training. This dedication to unique and high-quality services is what sets Active Dog LLC apart.
Their philosophy is simple. While prioritizing health, safety and camaraderie, Active Dog adds more freedom and fun to their client’s dog’s lives. They recommend maintaining a hiking schedule as dogs thrive with patterns and routines, resulting in the distinct bond they quickly develop with their pack and hike leader, a significant benefit. “If they go hiking every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, the dogs start to know what day they go hiking, and they even wait for us at the door of their homes! Having a set hiking day ensures the dogs are in the same pack so they get to really know all of their doggie friends and their hike leader,” emphasizes Stephanie Petrina, Director of Active Dog Farm Operations, Media Director and Expert Dog Hiker. Since all dogs spend the majority of their time in the woods or outside on the farm, it is vital for them to be up to date on all vaccinations and flea and tick medications; a tracking collar is also highly encouraged.
Those early days inspired by the love of Tobias’ companionship are felt on every hike. As Eric always intended, part haven, part fitness center, and part amusement park, Active Dog makes dogs and their owners truly happy. “I am amazed seeing how far we’ve come and realize how blessed I am to have such a supportive family, amazing staff members, wonderful clients and their beloved dogs.”
Active Dog, LLC
(203) 309-2590
activedog.org
Out for some fun with Expert Hiker, Stephanie.
Falls Are Not a Normal Part of Aging
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THE MOTHERS’ HELPER
MELISSA FAIRHURST OF MOMME BE WELL OFFERS SUPPORT FOR NEW AND EXPECTING MOMS
ARTICLE BY SAMANTHA SCHOENGOLD BERANBOM PHOTOGRAPHY BY JESSICA KELLY PHOTOGRAPHY
“KNOW THAT EVERY PHASE AND STAGE IS TEMPORARY! THIS WILL HELP YOU MOVE THROUGH THE MOMENTS THAT FEEL ESPECIALLY CHALLENGING.”
Stratfield Village mom and therapist Melissa Fairhurst knew specialized care was lacking for moms from personal experience. “I had one 6-week checkup after the birth of my first two children, and it just isn’t enough. I was lucky not to have experienced a mood or anxiety disorder, but I couldn’t help but think how I wouldn’t even know where to begin if I needed to access support.” Wanting to make a difference, Melissa set out to do just that and became a certified perinatal mental health counselor just three weeks before the birth of her third child. “During that training, it became even more evident to me that moms truly do not have enough access to mental health care during and after pregnancy. Becoming a mom is a massive transformation and even in the absence of a mood and anxiety disorder, moms deserve to feel supported throughout this transition.” With the motivation to provide that support and the knowledge to make an impact, MomMe Be Well was born.
MomMe Be Well offers an array of services so that each mom is cared for in a way that is unique to her needs, including 1:1 counseling, virtual group sessions and in-person workshops, all focusing on expecting, postpartum, and early motherhood. Melissa’s personalized approach spotlights each client’s individual needs - offering them the best plan of action, tailored just for them. She notes that some women may benefit from community and connection while some require clinical support. “I believe that moms need to be with other moms to help them to feel bolstered and cared for as they learn to prioritize themselves. I also recognize some moms may need more in-depth, individual support each week to help them feel better in whatever part of their journey they are in. Validation for new moms is so important and to follow that up with practical strategies they can implement in their day to day is incredibly rewarding.”
MomMe Be Well understands that the birth of a baby is the birth of a mother and that each new mom also deserves to be cared for and to learn how to effectively put the focus on her overall wellness, even in the midst of raising little ones. “I think education around what soon-to-be moms may experience is severely lacking. These things must be discussed during pregnancy to prepare mom and her partner. The more we provide education on this, the safer a mom may feel about reaching out.”
Melissa empowers her clients with that knowledge while helping to build the foundation they need. Melissa offers some basic ideas to keep in mind during the journey of early motherhood. Here are some new things to expect when expecting:
1. Try to reduce or completely let go of any expectation of what it will look like once baby is here. When we have expectations set too high it can lead to feelings of letdown or failure when those expectations are not met.
2. Postpartum is not just six weeks or even just one year. It is as long as you need it to be, and many, many moms do not feel back to themselves for 18+ months.
3. Postpartum moms need to connect with other moms who are in a similar season. There is so much power in the village but sometimes creating it can be a challenge so know where to turn to before you enter into this season.
4. Know that every phase and stage is TEMPORARY! This will help you move through the moments that feel especially challenging.
5. The hardest thing about becoming a mom is becoming a mom! The transition into this season looks so different for all moms, and the transition alone can be very challenging, even if mood and anxiety are not impacted. Know that you deserve to feel supported throughout your entire journey into early motherhood
For the latest on the next in-person mom meet up or to learn more about Melissa follow @mommebe_well on Instagram
Books are Magic
ARTICLE BY SAMANTHA SCHOENGOLD BERANBOM | PHOTOGRAPHY BY DARIUSZ TEREPKA PHOTOGRAPHY
INDEPENDENT
BOOK SHOP BLACK ROCK BOOKS IS A COMMUNITY FOR KIDS
A self-described lifelong, flashlight-under-the-covers type reader, Black Rock Books co-owner Meg Flynn started dreaming up the idea of a bookshop soon after moving to the neighborhood. “Pretty early on, I joked that all Black Rock would need is an independent bookstore, and then it would truly be perfect.” After meeting fellow mom Emily Welch, the two decided to join forces. With their mutual love of the area, they wanted to spotlight its singular noteworthiness.
“Ideas started forming in my head about a community space that would offer events that help bring people together in an interesting and engaging way. When Meg mentioned that we needed a bookstore here in Black Rock, I jumped at the chance to get involved and make it a reality,” says Emily.
The well-curated and thoughtfully considered cozy shop is expertly stocked. “We may not have every title but I think you’ll be surprised by how much we have packed into a small space. Plus, we are always happy to order what you’re looking for,” offers Meg. The value they hoped to add to the neighborhood is just as important as the books on hand. At a recent event, that unique sense of community was echoed in the crowd of parents and children there for storytime, but clearly, the shop was a routine weekend stop. Black Rock Books hosts a variety of fun events, drawing neighbors and nearby residents to their poetry nights, workshops, and author talks. But mostly, you’ll see friends meeting friends.
Meg and Emily’s dream of bringing people together is now a reality. Black Rock Books has become, as they call it - a “third space” – somewhere for people to spend time that is not home or work, where they can connect with other readers and neighbors. In this special community, Black Rock Books is making magic.
To learn more about what’s happening every month, be sure to follow along on social media or sign up for their newsletter
Dr. Rudolph’s practice encompasses a full range of dental services with expertise in preventive, cosmetic and reconstructive care. His extraordinary team is dedicated to patient care and it shows!
Family Dentistry | Implant Reconstruction | Veneers
Invisalign | Zoom® Whitening | Single Day Crowns
140 Sherman St. Fairfield, CT 06824 ~ 203.254.9533
drkeithrudolph
Performance Based Chiropractic
The best type of ability is availability
This is not your typical chiropractic visit
Active Release Techniques
Neurofunctional Acupuncture
Light Therapy
Performance Based Mobility (Group Class)
Chiropractic Adjustments
Functional Range Release (FR)
Individualized Supplementation Protocols
f Dr Keith Rudolph www.drkeithrudolph.com completehealthct.com |
Book your appointment today.
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ARTICLE PROVIDED BY BLACK ROCK BOOKS PHOTOGRAPHY BY DARIUSZ TEREPKA PHOTOGRAPHY
Black Rock Books Recommends!
Laze away the last of summer’s days with these soon-to-be favorites for both kids and parents, recommended by the owners of Black Rock Books. -SB
PICTURE BOOKS (AGES 0-99)
For new parents: You Are New by Lucy Knisley
This one is as much for the baby as it is for the parents – a sweet celebration of the phases and milestones of early childhood, and the love that’s present every step of the way.
Kitten’s First Full Moon by Kevin Henkes
A Caldecott Medal winning title about a hungry kitten who mistakes the moon for a big bowl of milk in the sky. It’s never too early to start reading to kids, and the black and white illustrations are perfect high-contrast imagery for the littlest readers in training.
Favorite bedtime read:
Everybody in the Red Brick Building by Anne Wynter, Illustrated by Oge Mora
Everyone in the red brick building is asleep, until a series of events wakes the residents up one by one. Kids can read along with the sound effects from noisy neighbors, and help soothe the characters (and themselves) back to sleep with this sweet book about winding down for the night.
Favorite silly story: Buffalo Fluffalo by Bess Kalb, Illustrated by Erin Kraan
This lyrical, rhyming story about a cranky Buffalo who has had “enuffalo” is sure to have kids and grown-ups alike giggling through bedtime!
TOP PICKS FOR CHILDREN’S BOOKS BY THE EXPERTS
EARLY READERS
(AGES 4-8)
The Orange Wall , by Valerie Bolling, Illustrated by Kai Robinson
This is the third book in Valerie Bolling’s Rainbow Days series, part of Scholastic’s early reader line. The full color illustrations paired with easy to read text and artistic story line are sure to delight creative readers.
It Is Time, by Lizzy Rockwell
This non-fiction story for early readers follows the growth and transformation of a single caterpillar egg to a beautiful butterfly. Beautifully illustrated, with new vocabulary words for budding scientists.
MIDDLE
GRADE (AGES 8-12)
The Wild Robot, by Peter Brown
When a robot washes up on a remote island, she must learn to adapt to her surroundings in order to survive, and finds herself at home among nature until her mysterious past catches up with her. Soon to be adapted into an animated film; read the book first!
The Two Princesses of Bamarre, by Gail Carson Levine
Sisters Addie and Meryl couldn’t be more different; Meryl is bold where Addie is cautious, but they are united by their shared love for each other and their kingdom. When illness changes the course of the sisters’ lives, they both must step out of their roles and chart a new path. Full of adventure, magic, fantastical creatures, and a touch of romance.
Wake up with the Chamber members over a cup of joe to start your day! 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 at fairfieldctchamber.com
AUGUST 7TH
Sing Me A Story
Fairfield Museum Commons | 11:30 AM
Enjoy a fun way to develop early literacy skills in young children with dancing, singing and stories that incorporate music. For children ages 0-5 and their caregiver. Drop offs are not permitted. Bring a blanket to sit on. If it is raining, the class will be held inside the Fairfield Museum. fairfieldpubliclibrary.org
AUGUST 8TH
Meet the Author Jr.: Victoria Kann
Pequot Library | 4:00 PM
Come meet Victoria Kann, the award-winning illustrator and author of the Pinkalicious series, when she comes to read Pinkalicious and the Little Butterfly to celebrate the end of the Read, Renew, Repeat summer programs and Pequot Library’s new pollinator garden! A book signing will follow. Remember to wear pink! Registration is required. pequotlibrary.org
AUGUST 8TH
Jukebox Bingo
Two Roads Brewing | 6:30 PM
Calling All Music and Bingo Lovers. Come down to test your knowledge of music for your chance to win awesome prizes! “Who sings that song?” “What’s the name of this song?” “Can you finish the lyrics?” are just some of the questions you will be tested on during our jukebox bingo game Doors Open at 4PM. tworoadsbrewing.com
AUGUST 14TH
Talking to Bugs
Connecticut's Beardsley Zoo | 7:00 PM
Dr. Bekka Brodie's research focuses on understanding how insects communicate with each other and their environment, including interactions with plants and how they search for resources. Using a mix of chemistry, behavior, and physiology, Dr. Brodie unravels the signals insects use, whether it's through smell, sight, or sound, and how these signals have evolved in different environments. $10. Registration is required. beardsleyzoo.org
AUGUST 17TH
Step Up for the Brave
Martire Family Arena
Join Homes for the Brave for the 10th Annual Step Up for the Brave, supporting Veterans experiencing homelessness. Participate virtually from August 12-16 by logging your steps online to win prizes. On August 17, join indoors at Sacred Heart University’s Martire Family Arena for a Stair Climb or Walking Challenge. Register today and show your support! Visit homesforthebrave.org to register.
Want to be featured?
AUGUST 17TH
Family Day at Sun Tavern
Fairfield Museum & History Center | 11:00 AM
Families will play colonial games, make paper carriages and tricorn hats, try colonial snacks, and enjoy a special performance by Rick Spencer and Dawn Indermuehle, who will share songs that were popular during Lafayette’s time. Free with Museum admission. fairfieldhistory.org
AUGUST 20TH
Open Mic Night with Gianni & Doey Joey
Park City Music Hall | 7:00 PM
Acts will enter to participate in open mic by submitting their name into the "Act Hat" anytime after 6pm until the "hanging up the hat" (closing submissions). Acts will be randomly selected throughout the evening to perform for 10 minutes or 2 songs. Doors open at 6PM. For more information visit parkcitymusichall.com
AUGUST 21ST
ConnectFairfield's 3rd Annual Sauce Making Event
The Italian Kitchen | 7:00 PM
Enjoy a scrumptious dinner and refreshing libations. Hosted by ConnectFairfield to support Operation Hope. A truly fun event! Visit connectfairfield.com for more information and to learn more about other upcoming events.
AUGUST 28TH
AUGUST: OSAGE COUNTY
FTC | 7:00 PM
Part of the Summer Theatre Reading Series. This is Letts’ Pulitzer-Prize-Winning and Tony-Award-Winning masterpiece. A vanished father. A pill-popping mother. Three sisters harboring shady little secrets. When the large Weston family unexpectedly reunites after Dad disappears, their Oklahoman family homestead explodes in a maelstrom of repressed truths and unsettling secrets. Visit fairfieldtheatre.org for more information and tickets.
AUGUST 31ST
Jackie’s Boy Presents The Motown Revue: The Next Generation
Downtown Cabaret Theater | 4:00 PM & 8:00 PM
Grammy Award Winning Singer/Songwriter Jackie’s Boy Presents The Motown Revue “The Next Generation”. Celebrate a night of history and musical magic of Motown with Jackie’s Boy and friends singing the classics from Marvin Gaye, Stevie Wonder, The Temptations and the Diva of all Divas Diana Ross..and much more! For tickets, visit dtcab.com.
SEPTEMBER 14TH
British Legends of Rock Show
Bijou Theatre
All ages will enjoy an evening with ALL of your favorite 60s & 70s British rock legends A-Z. From The Animals to Led Zeppelin and everything in-between. Go to bijoutheatrect.spacecrafted.com for tickets.
Whether your pup has the obedience of a dog show finalist, or social behavior that makes you want to play dead around others, you can develop more owner confidence with help from this expert trainer.
ARTICLE BY LISA MOYER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES | STYLED BY ANGELA BROOCKERD
DOG
SOCIALIZING TIPS:
“Socializing your dog is beneficial for both dogs and their owners,” says Taryn Tyler, a certified dog trainer. “It creates confidence for both dogs and owners and displaces the anxiety we feel when our dogs aren’t behaving like we want them to.”
Taryn stresses that teaching a dog to sit or stay is less about tricks and more about the relationship that builds between animal and owner. “We all love our dogs, but they can be stressful when they can’t seem to click in our home environments.
• Socializing is more than taking your dog in public. A guy can dump a bunch of mulch in your driveway and spread it , but he’s not a landscaper until he’s following a plan. When the doorbell rings or a visitor comes into the house, what’s our expectation for the dog? When we’re in public and the dog’s attention is diverted, what’s our plan to refocus them? Socialization is 99 percent working on small steps as part of a larger plan.
• Socializing isn’t about our dogs being the center of attention in public. Everyone loves seeing a dog, but our best outcome for the dog is to go unnoticed. Sitting by our side, ignoring external stimuli, remaining calm—those are things we strive for when socializing a dog.
• When socializing dogs with other dogs, start small. Take a walk with another dog to get them to just exist in the same vicinity. Once they’re able to not be excited by the other dog, work on limited playing in controlled environments.
• If someone comes into your home, let them know what boundaries you’re working on with your dog. You can even suggest asking them to carry a few treats and work on some of the behaviors your dog is already comfortable with.
