The Men of Fairfield
LOCAL SERVICES
HAMMER & NAILS OPENS IN FAIRFIELD
PROFESSIONAL SERVICES
MEET DR. MILLER OF COSMETIC & RECONSTRUCTIVE DENTISTRY
LIFE + CULTURE
THE ONE ABOUT THE COMEDIAN TURNED AUTHOR
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
June 2026 Publisher’s Letter
Have you ever stopped to think about the role a father truly plays in shaping a home? It’s something that often goes unspoken, yet its impact is profound. Fathers help create the rhythm of a household—they bring stability, perspective, and a sense of direction that quietly influences everything around them.
As a father myself, I’ve come to realize that it’s not always the big moments that define the relationship, but the small, consistent ones—the conversations in the car, the shared routines, the lessons that come from simply being present. Those moments add up over time and become the foundation our children stand on.
A father’s influence shows up in many ways:
• His strength can be a steady anchor in uncertain times
• His words can guide, encourage, and inspire
• His presence can bring comfort and confidence
• His time creates lasting memories and meaningful connection
• His guidance helps shape character and direction
What makes fatherhood so meaningful is that there’s no single way to do it “right”—but there is always an opportunity to be intentional. The impact a father has is built day by day, through effort, patience, and love.
This month, as we celebrate Father’s Day, it’s a great time to recognize the fathers and father figures who have shaped our lives. And for those of us who are dads, it’s a reminder of the role we have the privilege to play—not just within our families, but in the example we set for the next generation.
Wishing a Happy Father’s Day to all the incredible dads in our community.
Warm regards,
BRUCE BERNSTEIN, PUBLISHER
June 2026
PUBLISHER
Bruce Bernstein | bruce.bernstein@citylifestyle.com
CO-PUBLISHER
Mindy Katz | mindy.katz@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Samantha Beranbom samantha.beranbom@citylifestyle.com
PUBLICATION DIRECTOR
Katie Bode | katie.bode@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Yael L. Maxwell
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Dariusz Terepka Photography, Jay Cohen
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
President Matthew Perry
COO David Stetler
CRO Jamie Pentz
CoS Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Rachel Chrisman
LAYOUT DESIGNER Andi Foster
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Marina Campbell
inside the issue
Author, Andrew Ginsburg.
Rosa Miller
Ryan C. Sheppard | CPA,CFF Managing Partner
Alpha Fit Club
Alpha Fit Club is a boutique fitness studio delivering high-energy, coachled workouts that blend strength and conditioning in a supportive, community-driven environment. With 20+ locations across the Northeast, AFC is expanding into Connecticut. Its Fairfield studio opens Summer 2026— bringing an elevated group fitness experience designed to help members feel stronger, more confident, and more connected. alphafitclub.com
Photography Courtesy of Alpha Fit Club
Active Dog
You're busy.. but your dog isn't. That's where Active Dog comes in! We’ll take your dog off your hands and treat them to a fun day of running free through the woods on our private property with a pack of friends. With over 650 acres of private land to hike on, we are the largest dog hiking company in New England! Join the pack today! activedog.org
Photography by Catie James
Innes College Advising
As an Independent Educational Consultant with over five years of experience, I help students build authentic, standout application packages and find top-tier colleges where they’ll thrive academically, socially, and personally. I provide tailored guidance throughout each phase of the application process, including the creation of college lists, the refinement of application essays, and the formulation of strategic application approaches. Collaboratively, we will transform the complex college selection process into an enriching, fulfilling, and successful experience. innescollegeadvising.com
Photography Courtesy of Innes College Advising
Roost Kitchen + Coffee
Award-winning Chef, Fairfield County native, and local business-owner Mike Pietrafeso opened his third Roost Kitchen + Coffee in Fairfield last summer. They offer signature scratchmade items, made fresh daily, featuring locally sourced ingredients in a seasonal menu, paired with locally roasted artisan coffee from Kestrel Coffee Roasters. Come dine-in or order online for an easy grab and go option. Be sure to try their seasonal housemade syrups like the latest Banana Bread! heyroost.com
Photography Courtesy of Roost Kitchen + Coffee
ComForCare Home Care
ComForCare Home Care is a premier provider of in-home care, helping older adults live independently in their own homes to continue to do all the things they love. ComForCare is committed to helping people live their best lives and offers special programs for people with Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia. comforcare.com/fairfieldct
Battimelli’s A&S Italian Fine Foods
Battimelli’s A&S Italian Fine Foods in Fairfield has been bringing Arthur Ave. to Connecticut since 1986. Providing high quality imported products, store made specialties, Catering, New York Style deli, Fresh bread from the Bronx, Italian Pastry, Italian Cookie, and Certified Prime Angus Beef you will fall in love with what we offer. Family owned and operated Carmine, Don, and Giovanni Battimelli are amongst the many experienced and friendly faces you will see throughout the store. asfinefoods.com
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Photography by Dariusz Terepka Photography
Keepin’ the arts alive in FFLD since 2000.
IS THE PLACE.
FTC. WHERE COMMUNITY & LIVE EXPERIENCES MEET.
June 19th, kick off Summer 2026 with the Fairfield community and live music in The Warehouse at our “Summer Jam” party. It’s your town, your party, and your chance to start the season right.
Upcoming shows: 6/5 LEZ ZEPPELIN 6/6 JOAN OSBORNE SINGS BOB
DYLAN 6/12 ANDY MCKEE 6/16 DEVON ALLMAN’S BLUES SUMMIT
6/18 BOOKER T. JONES 6/25 LIVINGSTON TAYLOR 9/19 PAULA COLE
The Well Groomed Man
ARTICLE BY SAMANTHA SCHOENGOLD BERANBOM | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JAY COHEN
Hammer & Nails Opens in Fairfield
Ashwin Pamudurthy has spent the last 2 decades managing clinical practices at academic medical centers in New York and Connecticut. He currently serves as the administrator of the Dentistry service line for Montefiore Einstein Health System in New York City. Ashwin and his wife, Melissa, have called Westport home since 2018, where they live with their two daughters and their dogs. After surprising himself with how much he enjoyed his experience at a local Hammer & Nails, and even becoming a member, he decided Fairfield needed a location of its own. Clients clearly agree. Mark, a new member, describes Hammer & Nails as “an oasis… the quality of the services is amazing, and the staff is outstanding. It’s not intimidating, just a nice little oasis.” Another client and founding member, Ennuel, puts it simply: “I’m hooked. It’s a nice, relaxed environment.” Fairfield Lifestyle spoke to Ashwin about his new venture.
FLM: WHAT SPARKED THE IDEA TO OPEN A MEN’S GROOMING SHOP?
AP: I have been a member of the Hammer & Nails Westport location for nearly 3 years. I reluctantly tried out their services at the insistence of good friends of mine from Florida who had opened a shop in Orlando and wanted me to try the service in Westport. I had always imagined myself as someone needing a very basic service, viewing haircuts more as a necessity. After giving in and making an online appointment via their app, I had my first time haircut with them and was blown away by the time taken
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to complete the initial consult, skill, attention and the complete experience, which included straight razor work, hot lavender infused towel, ending with shampoo and conditioning scalp massage and hair wash all right at your chair. This is when I realized it was more about self-care, loved the way I looked and felt, and signed up to become a member (20%-40% discounts on services and products). I booked my follow-up appointment, eager to enjoy the experience again.
FLM: HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE THE VISION BEHIND THE SHOP?
AP: Hammer and Nails, as a franchise, aims to create the ultimate grooming experience for men,, offering haircuts, shaves, beard grooming, facials, manicures and pedicures, with complementary beverage service, in an environment that is comfortable, man-centric and industrial-chic. The artists providing services are specialized experts in men’s grooming needs, following a tried-and-tested protocol that enhances the overall grooming experience. Having experienced this at Westport, my vision was to bring this premium self-care experience locally, at a convenient location for the greater Fairfield community.
FLM: HOW DO YOU DEFINE “LUXURY” IN THE CONTEXT OF MEN’S GROOMING TODAY?
AP: Our definition of luxury is the ability to offer a premium grooming experience in an environment where our clients feel comfortable and well-catered to. This begins with our industrial design aesthetic, complemented by beverage service and extends to haircuts, straight razor shaves, beard grooming, hair and beard coloring, facials, manicures, pedicures and eyebrow, nose and ear waxing. All these services are provided by licensed stylists, specializing in men’s grooming, following our custom protocols, all perfected and blended to create the ultimate grooming experience. Our clients feel refreshed and relaxed, and look and feel great.
“Providing an exceptional customer experience each and every time is the foundation of all we do at Hammer & Nails Fairfield.”
FLM: WHAT DREW YOU TO THIS PARTICULAR GROOMING CONCEPT? WHAT SETS THIS SHOP APART?
AP: As a customer, I appreciated the adherence to protocols, and I know exactly what my service entails and what to expect at each visit. The goal at each Hammer & Nails location is to provide exceptional service by highly trained staff in a curated, comfortable environment that caters to men. We have built a stunning space and have hand-selected exceptionally trained staff specializing in men’s grooming who are passionate about what they do and how their clients feel at the end of the visit.
FLM: WHAT VALUES MATTER MOST TO YOU WHEN BUILDING A CULTURE INSIDE THE SHOP?
AP: Providing an exceptional customer experience each and every time is the foundation of all we do at Hammer & Nails Fairfield. This begins with hiring staff who are dedicated to the overall customer experience, building community and staying abreast of the latest trends and styles.
FLM: HOW DID YOU GO ABOUT CURATING YOUR TEAM OF STYLISTS AND BARBERS?
AP: We look for artists who genuinely love providing men’s grooming services and who bring professionalism, integrity, mutual respect, and a spirit of community to their work.
FLM: WHAT DO YOU BELIEVE MEN ARE LOOKING FOR IN GROOMING NOW THAT THEY WEREN’T 5 TO 10 YEARS AGO?
AP: Health & Wellness has taken center stage over the last couple of years,, and men have been no exception. In an increasingly digital world full of influencers, there has been an explosion in the sharing of both personal and professional experiences, and a sense of pride in looking and feeling good. Men and increasingly young adults are conscious of how they look and how that translates directly into how they feel. We see a fair number of young boys who share the grooming experience with their dads, and we were recently thrilled to offer our youngest client (2 years old!) his first haircut along with his father.
FLM: WHAT SERVICES ARE EMERGING AS THE MOST POPULAR?
AP: We see an increase in clients seeking our custom manicure and pedicure experiences that are unique to Hammer & Nails.
FLM: BOTH CLIENTS I BRIEFLY SPOKE TO TOUCHED ON THE BALANCE BETWEEN LUXURY AND APPROACHABILITY HERE. CAN YOU SPEAK TO THAT IDEA WHEN CREATING THE SPACE?
AP: As a franchise, Hammer & Nails has curated a design layout and aesthetic, emphasizing an engaging, comfortable, calming and relaxed environment catered to building a community of men.
FLM: WHAT HAS BEEN THE MOST REWARDING?
AP: Being able to bring this passion project to life and seeing our clients look and feel good, just as I did when I first stepped into a Hammer & Nails store nearly 3 years ago.
Hammer & Nails
340 Grasmere Ave. Fairfield, CT. (203) 692-4428 hammerandnailsfairfield.com @hammerandnails_fairfieldct
Your best choice for Fairfield Real Estate.
Katie O'Grady & Team
What Our Clients Are Saying
“Katie is a spectacular real estate agent - deeply knowledgeable, responsive, and a pleasure to work with. When our initial home choice wasn’t the right fit, she quickly found us great alternatives, and we ended up in a home that exceeded our expectations. She guided us seamlessly through the process and set us up with stellar referrals after the closing. You truly couldn’t choose a better agent.”
- Michael C.
“Katie is absolutely hands down the best agent ever. Everyone I know has used her and has been thrilled. She is just a smart, savvy, and understanding person. And that is just what you want when you’ll be spending a lot of time with an agent selling your home or looking for a new one. I would highly recommend her!”
- Mandy B.
“Katie was outstanding to work with for a number of reasons. She is extremely knowledgeable when it comes to knowing the market, has great insights on properties, and is poised when difficult situations arise. She helped us sell our previous home and buy our new one. She represented our best interest the entire way and as a result we were able to secure our dream home. I would highly reccomend her if you are in the market for buying or selling a home.”
- Kathryn & Dane B.
THERE’S NO PLACE LIKE HOME
LIBBY MCKINNEY TRITSCHLER
OF TEAM AFA AT WILLIAM RAVEIS REAL ESTATE LATEST
SOUTHPORT DREAM HOME
There are homes that are renovated, and then there are homes that are reimagined. 260 Willow Street is the latter a Southport Village residence shaped not by trend or convenience, but by discipline, restraint, and a deep respect for architecture and setting. Recently sold on April 17, 2026, this remarkable estate stands as a testament to what is possible when vision is allowed to guide every decision.
The story begins in 2020, when Italian-American entrepreneur Francesco Daniele and his wife, Meri Leigh, acquired the property for $2,265,000 and committed to a transformation of uncommon scope. What followed was not a renovation, but a full architectural reimagining so thorough that, aside from the primary structural framing, virtually nothing of the original home remained.
Daniele approached the project with the same rigor that defined his 20-year career in global finance, including senior roles at Goldman Sachs and Bank of America, and later as a Partner at Performance Trust Capital Partners. Accustomed to long-term thinking and precise execution, he viewed the home not as a short-term undertaking, but as an opportunity to create something enduring.
To bring that vision to life, Daniele partnered with architect Christopher Pagliaro, whose philosophy of “addition by subtraction” guided every architectural decision. Interior architecture and design were shaped in collaboration with LTW Design, whose refined approach to materials, scale, and spatial harmony lends the home its quiet sophistication. The result is a residence that feels elevated yet effortless, where clarity of form replaces excess and every space serves a purpose. The home’s infrastructure was rebuilt entirely. Plumbing, electrical, and mechanical systems were replaced, and all window and door openings were reframed and reinforced to accommodate a European steel and aluminum window package from Klar Studios. These details quietly define the interior experience, allowing light to move freely while maintaining a sense of solidity and calm. Among the most impactful changes is a newly created two-story entry that establishes volume and presence from the moment one arrives. A former staircase to the third floor was removed to improve flow, while dormers were added to fully integrate what had once been a disconnected level, transforming it into intentional, livable space. The only square footage added appears in a striking glass gallery linking the kitchen to the primary living areas, creating a luminous connection at the heart of the home.
The transformation extended well beyond the main residence. The guest house, pool, and pool house were all comprehensively renovated, resulting in an estate that feels cohesive, private, and purpose-built for both everyday living and entertaining. The level of craftsmanship, from custom millwork to premium finishes, is extensive yet restrained, revealing itself over time rather than all at once.
In 2024, Daniele relocated to Italy to pursue a new entrepreneurial chapter, founding Daniele International SRL, which now operates McDonald’s franchises in Prato and Mugello. That same commitment to longevity, stewardship, and community is evident throughout 260 Willow Street, a home designed not to impress loudly, but to endure quietly.
Fittingly, the next chapter belongs to someone who understands its significance. The buyer, a longtime Southport resident of more than 30 years, has deep roots in the village, having raised a family here and developed a genuine appreciation for what makes Southport exceptional. It is not simply a transfer of ownership, but of stewardship.
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Libby McKinney Tritschler
GUIDING THE TRANSACTION WAS LIBBY MCKINNEY TRITSCHLER OF TEAM AFA AT WILLIAM RAVEIS REAL ESTATE.
Located just a short stroll from the harbor and Long Island Sound, the setting evokes the ease of Nantucket or the Hamptons, while remaining unmistakably Southport; historic, refined, and deeply livable.
Guiding the transaction was Libby McKinney Tritschler of Team AFA at William Raveis Real Estate, who represented both seller and buyer. Her nuanced understanding of Southport, combined with trusted relationships on both sides of the table, allowed for a seamless and thoughtful sale, one that honored both the architectural integrity of the home and the personal goals of those involved.
260 Willow Street is more than a successful sale or a beautifully executed transformation. It is a rare convergence of vision, craftsmanship, and continuity, a home created with purpose and passed on with care.
On The Harbor
75 Station St, Southport, CT 06890
Phone: (203) 913-9454
ontheharborrealestate.com
Libby McKinneyTritschler
Libby McKinney-Tritschler is a sixth-generation Fairfield County resident and one of Southport Village’s most trusted real estate professionals. With more than 20 years of experience at William Raveis Real Estate, she is a top-producing agent for Team AFA and a leading expert in the Southport, Fairfield, and Westport real estate markets. Her local knowledge, deep community roots, and proven sales results make her a top choice for buyers and sellers. Known for exceptional service and professionalism, Libby guides clients through complex real estate transactions with clarity, care, and commitment. She serves on the boards of the Pequot Library, the Westport/ Weston YMCA, the Bedford Family Social Responsibility Fund, and the Stewart B. McKinney Foundation, and is an active mentor for the Shepards Mentor Program. Libby’s clients value her deep market expertise, extensive network, and client-first approach. Her work across a wide range of price points, combined with her long-term commitment to Southport and Fairfield County, has earned her a reputation as one of the region’s most knowledgeable and respected real estate professionals.
GRADUATION, DONE BEAUTIFULLY
THE MET, FORKS & FINGERS’ MOBILE EVENTS EXPERIENCE, BRINGS A REFINED, CHEF-DRIVEN CULINARY EXPERIENCE WITH SEAMLESS SERVICE DIRECTLY TO YOUR EVENT.
What can’t a condo do?
I’m really thinking about a move. The house has become too much, and I’m feeling disconnected from friends and neighbors. I like the idea of a condo, but there’s still a lot of responsibility. An indepedent living community, on the other hand, means someone else does the cooking, cleaning and maintenance. And, I’d be around more people with more things to do every day. So, condo or independent living. What’s my move?
ARTICLE BY YAEL L. MAXWELL
PHOTOGRAPHY BY DARIUSZ TEREPKA PHOTOGRAPHY
Tooth Tycoon
Ever since he was a young boy, Dr. Donald Miller knew he wanted to build something for himself that would also give back to others.
For over 25 years, he has worn many hats primarily as the owner and operator Cosmetic & Reconstructive Dentistry in the Brickwalk but also as community builder and philanthropist.
Though he’s approached “five times a week” by private equity firms seeking to offload his administrative burden, Dr. Miller tells Fairfield Lifestyle: “I’m not into being taken over by business specialists who tell me how to run a practice.” Instead, he feels like being a businessman in addition to practicing dentistry enables him to better connect with his patients.
“We forget about patients being people, and we really, as doctors, should be more aware of what our patients are like,” Dr. Miller says. “They get anxious just like we do, and they need to make sure that this is a safe place for them, their questions can be answered with confidence, and the work that follows can be done at a topnotch level.”
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Dr. Donald Miller
“Our patients enjoy coming into our office. They often tell other people: ‘I can’t wait to go to the dentist.’”
In building his practice, Dr. Miller has prioritized bringing in new technologies as well as services and staff that put the patient first. Uniquely, his office offers a full slate of dental services, including cosmetic procedures as well as nonsurgical treatment for TMJ pain, and also features in-house lab services so that patients can receive comprehensive care in one location. All digital imaging equipment is state-of-theart, enabling his team to be “precise and efficient,” he says. For anxious patients, Dr. Miller offers IV sedation as well as weighted blankets.
Additionally, he’s proud to offer “concierge-style” appointments for all patients, including longer and same-day appointments, weekend care, and proactive follow-up. “We do everything here, so our patients don’t get farmed out, they’re not sent to this specialist or that person. They get everything done here within their comfort zone.”
Because of all this, Dr. Miller says he comes to work happy. “I’m not stressed out about having to meet certain goals because those goals just happen,” he says. “Our patients enjoy coming into our office. They often tell other people: ‘I can’t wait to go to the dentist.’”
Originally from Stamford, CT, Dr. Miller was attracted by the sciences at an early age. After being exposed to dentistry through some family friends, he saw the opportunity to not only work with his hands but also be in business for himself, and chose it as his career path. He attended Boston College and earned his dental degree from the University of Connecticut before completing a residency in Advanced Cosmetic & Surgical Dentistry at the University of North Carolina.
A lifelong sailor, he chose to settle with his family in Fairfield partially for its proximity to the water but also because of its supportive community. While the town is less “sleepy” than it was when he moved here, Dr. Miller has
embedded himself within its fabric, especially as a fundraiser for the Norma Pfriem Breast Care Center, Al’s Angels, Lauralton Hall, Fairfield Police and Fire Departments, and youth sports leagues, to name a few. He also recently launched a college scholarship program for graduating Fairfield high school students intending to study nursing, science, or medicine. Giving back and supporting other small businesses is something not optional for Dr. Miller.
His pride and joy are his three children— Sophia, Devon, and Michael—and spending time with them be it on the water, hitting the slopes, having Sunday dinners, or traveling to different NFL stadiums. Dr. Miller has also embraced the opportunity to model humanitarianism for them in his volunteer work. “I like to give back, and I like to show my kids what kind of smile they can put on someone’s face by just doing small things,” he says. “If you can do something nice, you should.”
In his free time, he enjoys sailing out of the Black Rock Yacht Club, doing hot yoga, skiing, and golfing. He can often be found hanging out at Saugatuck Sweets with Al DiGuido, because even dentists love a sweet treat now and then.
Ultimately, his objective is to “no pun intended, put smiles on people’s faces, but also make them feel good. We have real conversations in the chair. I think it’s good for me, too, to be honest. It is nice to help people in a way that they appreciate and know they can’t get other places.”
To learn more, visit fairfieldcosmeticdentistry. com , follow @fairfieldcosmeticdentistry on Instagram, or call 203-255-6878 . Dr. Donald Miller and Cosmetic & Reconstructive Dentistry can be found at 1275 Post Road, Suite 201, Fairfield, CT 06824.
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Dr. Miller with his incredible staff.
“They get everything done here within their comfort zone .”
THE WRITE STUFF
ARTICLE BY SAMANTHA SCHOENGOLD BERANBOM PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED BY ANDREW GINSBURG
Andrew Ginsburg is no stranger to an audience, but his crowd has changed. A popular stand-up comic on the New York City circuit for over 20 years, he eventually realized where his true creativity and his true fan base really lived. Now an author, this Fairfield dad of three has pivoted to a different kind of storytelling, one rooted not in the spotlight, but in everyday life.
FLM: TELL US A LITTLE ABOUT YOURSELF AND YOUR CONNECTION TO FAIRFIELD.
AG: For 25 years, I was a stand-up comic, mostly in New York City. Then I began reading stories to my kids at night during our “book parties,” and found my true passion. I quickly realized that reading to them was far more meaningful than telling jokes to strangers, and I retired from stand-up. Now, I have my own personal training business where I only train people I like. I am also a 7-time bodybuilding champion and earned my pro card in 2023. My titles include “Mr. Connecticut,” and my sons keep my trophies in their bedrooms. In 2017, I became a published author with “Pumping Irony: How To Build Muscle, Lose Weight, and Have the Last Laugh. It was a comedic, prescriptive fitness book for adults. Then I wrote another funny book called “Critter Caravan,” my first children’s story.
FLM: WHAT WAS THE INSPIRATION FOR YOUR NEW CHILDREN’S BOOK?
AG: “The Colors of My Sky” was the book I always wanted to write. I wanted to write something more serious, with depth, and a significant message. I wanted to write a book that schools could use as a teaching tool. My oldest son, Ben, was obsessed with butterflies when he was little. We’d buy those butterfly kits and watch them sit in a chrysalis forever before they finally emerged as a butterfly. So, butterflies were always in my back pocket. All three of our kids have blue eyes, even though my
wife and I don’t. Where did they come from? Who knows? There are a lot of jokes there. Anyway, one day Ben goes, “My eyes are the sky, Remi and Leo’s eyes are the ocean, Mommy’s eyes are the grass, and Daddy’s eyes are poop.” And that’s where the idea for the book came from. That blue was put on a pedestal above all other colors.
FLM: WHAT FINALLY PUSHED YOU FROM ‘I HAVE AN IDEA’ TO ‘I’M ACTUALLY GOING TO WRITE THIS BOOK’?
AG: My first book, “Pumping Irony: How To Build Muscle, Lose Weight, and Have the Last Laugh,” showed me that I could go the distance with a book. That was 40,000 words. “The Colors of My Sky” is around 600.
FLM: HOW DID YOU INITIALLY PARTNER WITH THE ILLUSTRATOR? WHAT WAS THAT COLLABORATION LIKE?
AG: My publisher, Samiha Hoque of Sorra Books, gave me three illustrators to choose from. It was clear from the start that Mohammad Asadullah was the person I wanted to work with. He did an incredible job, and I am so grateful to him for bringing this story to life in the way that he did.
FLM: HOW DID THE ARTWORK CHANGE OR ELEVATE THE STORY BEYOND WHAT YOU ORIGINALLY IMAGINED? WERE THERE ANY MOMENTS WHERE THE ILLUSTRATOR CAPTURED SOMETHING YOU HADN’T EVEN PUT INTO WORDS?
AG: The artwork transformed the story completely. Kids are so visual, so having these beautiful illustrations of butterflies to look at makes the book a work of art. One thing he did that I love was that he didn’t give any of the butterflies eyes. We never discussed this, but I imagine he did it because these butterflies “don’t see color.” They value all colors as equals.
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FLM: WHAT THEMES IN THE BOOK REFLECT THE VALUES YOU’RE TRYING TO TEACH YOUR CHILDREN AT HOME?
AG: To celebrate our differences and to treat everyone with kindness and respect.
FLM: WHAT IS A PIECE OF ADVICE THAT HAS STUCK WITH YOU AS A DAD OR DURING THIS PROCESS OF PUBLISHING A CHILDREN’S BOOK? WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO SOMEONE WHO’S THINKING ABOUT ATTEMPTING SOMETHING DIFFERENT OR NEW?
AG: I’m a big believer in following the charm. Whatever you find charming at the moment, and that may change, is what you should be doing. If it’s dancing or painting or writing a children’s book, that’s what you should do. And, if it’s the latter, get yourself a copy of “Writing Picture Books” by Ann Whitford Paul. It will teach you everything you need to know.
FLM: IS THERE A HOBBY OR PASSION OUTSIDE OF WRITING THAT READERS WOULD BE SURPRISED TO LEARN ABOUT? DID THIS CREATIVE PROCESS IMPACT ANY OTHER CREATIVE ENDEAVORS? OR DID THOSE PURSUITS INSPIRE THE BOOK?
AG: Being a stand-up comic for 25 years taught me how to write funny and be succinct. Both of those qualities come in handy when writing picture books. I have also been practicing transcendental meditation since I was 21, and I believe it has greatly enhanced my creativity. As for surprising things that I’ve done, I won a JFK Jr lookalike contest this past March in New York City. My friend, Lisa Lampanelli, calls me “Jew-FK Jr.”
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FLM: HOW DOES YOUR ROLE IN THE COMMUNITY INTERSECT WITH THE THEMES OR SPIRIT OF YOUR BOOK?
AG: I try to be nice to everybody I come in contact with. As an author, I love going to my daughter’s preschool at TrinityParish and reading to her class. This spring, I am visiting 24 schools in Connecticut and New York City to entertain and, hopefully, inspire students to embrace change and celebrate what makes them different. Last week, I got to visit Ben and Leo’s school and present my book. That was a dream come true. Thank you, Mr. Brophy.
FLM: HAS WRITING THIS BOOK SPARKED IDEAS FOR WHAT YOU WANT TO CREATE NEXT?
AG: I want to keep writing more. If I’m not working on something, I get antsy.
FLM: WHAT DO YOU HOPE KIDS SAY OR FEEL AFTER READING YOUR BOOK?
AG: I hope they accept everybody as equals.
FLM: WHAT HAS BEEN THE MOST REWARDING PART?
AG: Being able to read to kids. That is my true passion. I finally found shoes that fit.
You can find The Colors of My Sky on amazon.com . Follow @andrewginsburg for event updates.
Photo by Rosa Miller
Design is a passion and your lifestyle is our blueprint. We specialize in blending vintage with modern, mixing styles, and layering textures, finishes, and patterns in a way that feels both timeless and uniquely tailored to you. If you don’t know where to start, let’s talk!
AN EXCERPT FROM EPISODE 6 OF SHARE THE LIFESTYLE, A CITY LIFESTYLE PODCAST
Photographer: Brittany Dawn Short
Creative Director: Jen Birn
Stylist: Stephanie Coultress O’Neill
Location: Hotel Saint Cecilia, Austin, TX
MIKE JOHNSON HAS BUILT HIS LIFE AROUND ONE QUIETLY RADICAL IDEA: THE STANDARD YOU SET PRIVATELY IS THE ONLY ONE THAT MATTERS.
After eight years in the Air Force, a celebrated run on national television, and a health crisis abroad that sent him deep into supply chains and ingredient certifications most founders never touch, the result is Oshun — a luxury ritual brand built on provenance you can trace and integrity you can verify. In an exclusive conversation for the Share the Lifestyle podcast, Mike shares what it actually takes to build something worth putting your name on. Read the highlights below, then scan the QR code for the full episode.
Q: YOU BECAME A FAN FAVORITE ON THE BACHELORETTE AND THEN LEFT THE SPOTLIGHT. YOU MOVED TO MEXICO, LEARNED SPANISH, THEN COSTA RICA, AND BUILT A COMPANY. WHAT DID THAT EXPERIENCE TEACH YOU ABOUT HUMAN BEHAVIOR?
A: “If you’re a good person going in, that shows. If you’re not, that shows too. I also learned that people form this parasocial relationship with you — they assume things about you. When all actuality, different circumstances bring out different parts of who you are. I was on TV trying to find love. The kindness people were showing after felt a bit fake, because they wanted to be a part of something that isn’t who I am individually, but a part of what they saw on TV. And so I had to get away from everybody and everything and the noise.”
THE QUIET STANDARD:
MIKE JOHNSON
“Too many people have prayed for me. So I’ve got to get up and do the walking.”
— Mike Johnson
Q: YOU JOINED THE AIR FORCE RIGHT OUT OF COMMUNITY COLLEGE. WHAT WERE YOU ACTUALLY RUNNING TOWARD?
A: “There was something in me that was saying: I’m not living up to my full potential. I was being a follower. My uncle said, ‘What’s going to make you become an adult the fastest?’ I said, obviously, the military. The Air Force broadened my thought process more than anything. We’re so caught up in our own perception — when you learn to understand different people’s perspectives, it adds to you in so many ways.”
Q: WITH OSHUN, YOU OWN YOUR MANUFACTURING, YOU EMPLOY A CHEMIST, EVERY PRODUCT HAS A BATCH NUMBER TRACEABLE TO ITS ORIGIN DATE. WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO GO THAT DEEP WITH THE BRAND?
A: “The EU bans 1,100 ingredients in personal care products. The U.S. bans nine. That’s my starting point. Oftentimes, it might be the same ingredient, but it comes from a place where it doesn’t have the highest purity. And 60% of what we put on our skin is absorbed. Every product Oshun makes carries a batch number that goes back to the exact day it was created — I can show you every single supplier, the date, the origin. I own more than one part of the supply chain because that’s the only way I can stand behind what’s in the bottle.”
This conversation is just the beginning. Mike goes deeper into why he’s buying land up north, the family in the Philippines who prayed over his factory floor, and what he’d tell every person ready to stop performing and start building. Scan the QR code for the full, exclusive City Lifestyle interview on the Share the Lifestyle podcast.
MIKE JOHNSON
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In A
ARTICLE BY PAULI REEP
PICKLE-BRINED CHICKEN WINGS SOAR TO THE NEXT LEVEL WITH ALABAMA WHITE SAUCE.
Pickle
Pickle Juice Brined Wings
INGREDIENTS
• 2 pounds chicken wings (flats and drummettes)
• Pickle juice - enough to cover wings
• 1 – 2 teaspoons garlic salt
• ¼ teaspoon pepper
• 6 tablespoons butter
• A few dashes of hot sauce
• 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
INSTRUCTIONS
I’ve spent years searching for the perfect wing flavor, never quite satisfied, until I heard a podcast suggestion: brining chicken wings in pickle juice. It sounded strange at first, but it yields incredibly tender and flavorful wings! Since then, I save pickle juice from every jar I buy just to recreate these beloved wings. If I run out of pickle juice, olive juice works too. I air fry mine, but if you don’t have an air fryer, cook them as you normally would. Don’t forget to toss them in a buttery dill sauce and try the Alabama white BBQ sauce for an extra layer of goodness!
1. Place chicken wings in a non-reactive container and pour pickle juice over chicken wings until completely covered.
2. Place it in the fridge and let it marinate, covered, for at least 8 hours.
3. Drain wings, discard pickle juice, and completely pat wings dry.
4. Put dried wings in a bowl and sprinkle with garlic salt and pepper. Mix well.
5. Place wings in an air fryer basket, being careful not to crowd. Cook at 400 degrees for 28 minutes, turning every 8 minutes until crispy. If you don’t have an air fryer, bake them in the oven for 35 - 40 minutes at 400 degrees, flipping halfway through.
6. Melt the butter and add a few splashes of hot sauce of your choice and mix in a bowl. Add wings and completely cover with butter mixture. Sprinkle with fresh dill and toss a few times, and serve with my white barbeque sauce.
Alabama White BBQ Sauce
INGREDIENTS
• 1 ½ cups mayonnaise (I prefer Duke’s)
• ¼ cup water
• ¼ cup white wine vinegar
• 1 tablespoon pepper, coarsely ground
• 1 tablespoon Creole mustard
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 teaspoons prepared horseradish
INSTRUCTIONS
Whisk all ingredients together until blended. Dip your pickle juice-brined wings in this sauce and taste the joy! Store in the refrigerator for 1 - 2 weeks.
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Is Whiskey On Ice
Nice?
BY EVE BUSHMAN
In speaking to Whiskey lovers (most happen to be men, but do accept me in their brethren as a fellow enthusiast, writer, and educator), I’ve learned a great many opinions on how to drink Whiskey. Specifically, preferences on adding water and ice vary greatly.
A brand ambassador that I had the privilege of listening to recently said the obvious: both dilution and temperature change when you add ice, so if you are going to add something, a little water is best. I personally prefer to use a water dropper, so I can add one drop at a time until I get to the desired taste.
THE BEST WAY TO ENJOY YOUR WHISKEY: ON THE ROCKS, ROCK, NEAT, OR WITH WATER
HERE ARE THE DIFFERENCES:
Rocks: Provides the highest rate of dilution as a lot of ice melts quickly. If you are drinking a barrel proof Whiskey, it kind of defeats the purpose as the distiller didn’t add water as they do in every other type of finished Whiskey.
On the Rock: The single rock, cube, or sphere is the slowest to melt and thought to be the most aesthetic. It’s nice if you want to stretch out your tasting. I often order on the rock if I want my drink to last longer.
Neat: This is the way single malt Scotch is served at a tasting event, in a branded Glencairn or Neat glass so that proper nosing for aromas can be achieved - and a dram of Scotch, smaller than an ounce, fits in them perfectly.
Water: As I mentioned above, quoting the brand ambassador, a little water is better for a fine Whiskey over any kind of ice. Often, if ordered with water, the water is served in a separate vessel on the side so you can add in as much as you want.
Quoting another expert on the subject, Richard Paterson of The Dalmore famously and enthusiastically demonstrates in his Scotch classes how to drink single malt Scotch Whiskey: Paterson fills a lowball glass to the rim with ice, adds Scotch and then ceremoniously throws it over his shoulder onto the carpet of the classroom – because that much ice makes the drink worthless. One more quote, never “add green tea or milk to Whiskey. You can add a little water, but not a lot of ice.”
Ultimately, the reason we add ice can be for aesthetics, to stretch out the time spent on one glass, for cooling, and for dilution. However, the number one reason enthusiasts add water is … drumroll please … because adding a little water actually opens up a Whiskey to show more aromas and flavors.
JUNE 2026
events
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
JUNE 4TH-5TH
Southport Garden Stroll
Southport’s Private Gardens
Co-chaired by Libby McKinney Tritschler and Christopher Philip, Pequot Library’s signature summer fundraiser returns with a celebration of beauty, community, and design. Enjoy exclusive access to a curated selection of Southport’s private gardens, complemented by lively experiences throughout the event. Don't miss the Opening Night Cocktail Party and so much more. Visit pequotlibrary.org for tickets and a schedule of the Festivities.
SATURDAYS JUNE 6TH-SEPTEMBER 5TH
Summer Saturdays on the Museum Commons
Museum Commons | 11:00 AM - 2:00 PM
Explore historic properties and try hands-on activities on the Museum Commons. More than 400 years of diverse stories can be found in the Victorian Barn, Sun Tavern, and Victorian Cottage, which has a dedicated early childhood space. Free.
JUNE 6TH
Ada Twist, Scientist & Friends
SHU Community Theatre | 12:00 PM
A fun musical based on the Netflix series and the bestselling books Rosie Revere, Engineer; Iggy Peck, Architect; and Ada Twist Scientist by Andrea Beaty, which makes STEM concepts come to life.
JUNE 19TH
FTC Summer Jam
FTC | 8:00 PM
Kick off summer in style for an unforgettable night of live music. Celebrate the start of Summer with great music, community spirit, and an electric atmosphere — all in support of FTC. It’s a feel-good fundraiser you won’t want to miss. Come be part of the night and support a great cause! Doors 7 PM. fairfieldtheatre.org for tickets.
JUNE 21ST
Make Music Fairfield
Throughout Town | 8:00 AM
Make Music Fairfield is music performed by anyone, enjoyed by everyone. A free celebration open to anyone of any age, skill level and musical persuasion! Join this global festival happening in over 2,000 cities around the world. For updated information visit experiencefairfieldct.org
JUNE 28TH
Fairfield Dog Days
Old Town Hall Green | 11:00 AM
Fun for the whole family! Enjoy food trucks, vendors and more! Proceeds benefit local charities. Free admission. Rain or Shine. Visit fairfieldctchamber.com for more information.
ARTICLE BY KIM HILL
GUYS’ GUYS’ GETAWAYS GETAWAYS
FOUR GREAT PLACES FOR GROOVES, GRUB AND GAWKING WITH BEST BROS
Has it been too long since your tribe gathered to rib and one-up each other as only guys can do? To help plan a getaway for just the guys, City Lifestyle gathered an eclectic list of locations offering tons of things to see, do and experience. Here’s hoping the only ribs one will get on this guys’ getaway are the kind to hold in hands while barbecue sauce drips onto shirts.
Scottsdale/Phoenix
There’s no other tournament on the PGA Tour like the Waste Management Phoenix Open and no hole like the legendary 16th, where 20,000 boisterous fans boo the tee shots that miss the green. The other 51 weeks of the year, golfers can play TPC Scottsdale or try one of more than 200 courses in the Scottsdale area, a top golf destination. Another winter event is the BarrettJackson Collector Car Auction. Even if one’s only collector car was a Hot Wheels, it’s a blast to peruse the acres of autos for sale before heading inside to watch the unique or renowned cars crossing the auction block. When it’s time to get moving, the strenuous hike up Camelback Mountain in nearby Phoenix is a bucket-list item. Need a more moderate trail? Experience the same magic of the majestic saguaro cactus in the McDowell Sonoran Preserve.
New Orleans
It’s always a party in New Orleans (NOLA), especially when it comes to festivals, many of them centered around music. Folk to funk, gospel to jazz, zydeco, blues, African and other musical styles are celebrated on the Jazz and Heritage Festival’s 12 stages. If free admission is more desired, don’t miss the French Quarter Festival featuring local musicians and food vendors representing
dozens of New Orleans restaurants. Part of the fun of Mid-City Bayou Boogaloo is admiring revelers’ watercraft, some of them homemade just for this festival on the banks of Bayou Saint John. If one of the festivals can’t be attended, there’s still plenty of NOLA live music, particularly the jazz clubs on Frenchmen Street. And when a break from crowds is needed, take a guided swamp tour. Kitschy, yes, but it’s a hoot to cruise around on a swamp buggy while looking for alligators.
Bowling Green, Kentucky
“America’s Sports Car” is produced at the Bowling Green Assembly Plant, where visitors can join guided tours to observe Corvettes being built and learn the fascinating history of these sexy autos. See examples of all Corvette generations at the National Corvette Museum. And if the need for speed is still felt, a few times a year Xtreme Experience offers driving or ride-along events in exotics like Ferraris or Lamborghinis at the National Corvette Museum Motorsports Park. After getting all revved up, cool down at Mammoth Cave National Park, the longest known cave system in the world and a World Heritage Site, where guided tours take participants through tunnels humans have used for thousands of years. And after all this touring, the Bowling Green area is the southernmost point in the Kentucky Bourbon Trail of distilleries.
Austin
Live music rules here, with iconic venues such as Antone’s, The Continental Club, the White Horse and hundreds of other locations, from dive bars to big stages. From rock and blues to country and urban, music is heard every night of the week (and many afternoons as well). When guys are hungry, there are tons of barbeque and Tex-Mex joints. Unique food trucks are truly a thing here, with nearly 2,000 food trailers in town. Burn some calories biking or running the Southern Walnut Creek Trail or one of many paved paths. Get out on the water in a kayak, canoe or stand-up paddleboard on Lake Travis or Lady Bird Lake. Take a dip in the historic Barton Springs Pool, where the underground springs keep the water around 68 degrees all year.
While others build volume, we’ve built precision.
WE’VE CHOSEN TO STAY SMALL , ON PURPOSE.
So every client works directly with us. No delegation. No dilution. Because in luxury real estate, more people doesn’t mean better service—it means less of the people you hired.
