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Ahoy, Milford: I've Returned
It has been a long while since I last dropped anchor off this stretch of Connecticut shore — 1699, to be exact. And yet, here I am. Back in Milford. And I must say: you’ve done something rather extraordinary with the place.
When I rowed out to that little island in the dark of night — the one you now call Charles Island — I was choosing. A man does not bury treasure carelessly. He chooses a place that feels, in some deep and wordless way, worth keeping. The waters of Long Island Sound, the quiet shore, the sandbar that appears like a gift at low tide and vanishes just as quietly — I knew, even then, that this was somewhere special. I cursed the ground, yes. But perhaps what I really meant was: “don’t touch this. Something good is happening here.”
I am pleased to report that you took my advice. Milford has grown into a destination worthy of any map — and in this issue, we intend to chart every inch of it. You’ll find an exploration of Charles Island itself, with its layered legends and thrice-cursed lore (I will neither confirm nor deny all of it). You’ll read about Milford’s magnificent beaches, each one alive with its own energy and character. You’ll learn about the partnership between the Oyster Festival After Dark and the Fair on the Half Shell, a summer tradition upheld by volunteers and nonprofit organizations. You'll also discover the grand tradition of Pirate's Day — which, I must admit, I find enormously flattering. And you’ll get travel tips from designer Sophia Scinto, because even a pirate appreciates good taste.
What strikes me most, returning after all these years, is how easy it is to get here. By car along the coast. By train, right into the heart of town. Or by boat, sailing in off the Sound as I once did, with salt in the air and the shoreline opening up like a secret. Milford is not hidden, but it has the feel of a discovery. Every visitor who finds it feels, I think, a little like a treasure hunter who finally got lucky.
As it turns out, the real treasure was the town all along.
Welcome to Milford. Welcome aboard.
Faithfully yours,
Captain William Kidd
Privateer, Pirate, Occasional Treasure-Burier Milford, CT — Returned in Spirit, Summer 2026
July 2026
PUBLISHER
Mark Arnold | mark.arnold@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Chelsea Spata | chelsea.spata@citylifestyle.com
INTERNS
Harshitha Kothapalli, Michael Doyle, Madeline Babcock
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Madeline Babcock, Michael Doyle, Harshitha Kothapalli, Sophia Scinto, Chelsea Spata
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
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Tucked away on Naugatuck Avenue, The Fig Cooking School is a hands-on culinary experience unlike anything else in the area. Founded and led by instructor Heide Lang, Fig offers an ever-rotating roster of classes spanning everything from classic French technique to Southern comfort food — all in a bright, welcoming space designed to make every guest feel at home.
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Scoot and Paddle Brings Adventure Directly to Walnut Beach
Scoot and Paddle has been getting Milford residents and visitors out on the water since 2012, and the fun hasn't stopped. After transitioning away from its brick-and-mortar shop, the business now operates directly on Walnut Beach, offering kayak, paddle board, bicycle, and scooter rentals alongside SUP yoga, guided paddles, group events, and summer camps.
Fair On The Half
How two community organizations are keeping a beloved Milford summer tradition alive
TWO SHELLS, ONE SHORE
ARTICLE BY CHELSEA SPATA | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
If you’ve lived in Milford long enough, August means one thing: oysters. The smell of salt water, the sound of live music drifting over Fowler Field, the lines of people stretching down toward the harbor — it’s a rhythm this city has known for more than half a century. The Annual Milford Oyster Festival, now in its 52nd year, is one of the oldest and most beloved community traditions in Connecticut. It now shares the weekend with the DMBA’s Fair on the Half Shell, offering attendees a chance to explore Milford’s offerings by day and night alike.
Inaugural
Shell Organized By Downtown Milford Business Association Image provided by Downtown Milford Business Association
AT THE WATER’S EDGE
The Oyster Festival was born in 1975 as a small community celebration of Milford’s deep-rooted oyster history — a history that stretches back centuries. Oysters have been harvested in Milford’s coastal waters for generations, and Bob Gregory, one of the festival’s founding members who is still a familiar face around town, helped turn that heritage into a public gathering. What began modestly — a local event, modest in scale — grew into something that would eventually draw thousands of visitors from across Connecticut and beyond.
“We get people from all over,” says Michele Dibella, second vice president of the festival committee and longtime head of publicity. “I was IDing passports. People come from all over the country.”
In its heyday, the festival was a full-weekend spectacle that stretched from Greens End all the way past Fowler Field. Saturday mornings kicked off with a canoe and kayak race — a tradition that signaled to the whole city that Oysterfest had arrived. There was an arts and crafts fair on the Green, a car show at Armory Square, nonprofit food groups, live music on multiple stages, and, of course, thousands of freshly shucked oysters. At its biggest — the year Bret Michaels took the stage in 2014 — the festival ran out of just about everything.
The oysters themselves are entirely locally sourced. Today the festival works exclusively with Pearl’s Shellfish Farm and Briarpatch, both based in Milford, ordering approximately 30,000 oysters each year — all harvested fresh from the waters just off our shores. They’re served raw, the way Milford’s oyster tradition demands. And after the festival, the shells don’t go to waste: a CORR recycling program collects and returns them to the water, where they help cultivate new oyster growth and close a beautiful ecological loop.
“Our mission is to invest in our community and give our city an opportunity to shine... to celebrate the history of the oyster in Milford.”
Image provided by Oyster Fest
Image provided by Oyster Fest
“It seemed like a natural thing, another Milford nonprofit stepping in...To give the people who love this weekend the ability to keep the tradition going.”
Ah Schucks Image provided by Oyster Fest
The festival is run entirely by volunteers and funded entirely by sponsors and the sale of food and beverages — no city dollars, no municipal oversight. It is, in every sense of the word, a community endeavor.
“Our mission is to invest in our community and give our city an opportunity to shine,” says Ila Tokarz, current president of the Milford Oyster Festival, who has served on the committee for 14 years. “We really want to celebrate the history of the oyster in Milford.”
A NECESSARY EVOLUTION
After the festival’s 50th anniversary, the committee made a difficult but necessary decision. Rising costs across the board — insurance, staging, security, entertainment — had become increasingly difficult to manage. The music industry had changed dramatically; the post-COVID era brought with it inflated booking fees and new contractual restrictions that made it nearly impossible to bring in marquee acts at prices a volunteer-run nonprofit could sustain. And volunteerism, the festival’s lifeblood, was declining — not just on the committee, but among the nonprofit food groups that had long been the heart of the festival’s food operations.
The decision was made to streamline: two evenings of live music at Fowler Field, oysters, food trucks, and beverages — a focused, sustainable event that could continue to thrive for years to come. The daytime activities and the arts and crafts fair on the Green would close.
For many in the community, it was a loss. Social media lit up with frustration. Some blamed the city — a common misconception the committee is eager to correct.
“This is not a city-run event,” Dibella says plainly. “Your tax dollars do not pay for the festival. We pay for everything, even the things nobody thinks about – like re-seeding the baseball field when it’s over.”
THE FAIR FINDS A NEW HOME
Enter the Downtown Milford Business Association. When it became clear that the arts and crafts fair would no longer be part of the Oyster Festival, the DMBA saw an opportunity — and a responsibility. Partnering with the Junior Member League (JML), the DMBA took on the task of carrying forward a tradition that the community had made clear it wasn’t ready to give up. The result was Fair on the Half Shell, now in its second year.
The transition was made smoother by an act of remarkable generosity: Cathy Curley, the longtime arts and crafts coordinator for the Oyster Festival, literally handed the DMBA a playbook. She walked them through it step by step — vendors, logistics, layout, everything. The institutional knowledge that had built the fair over decades didn’t disappear. It transferred.
“She ran us through everything,” says John Wezenski, DMBA vice president. “I mean, it couldn’t have been a more seamless transition.”
The vendors followed. Many of the artisans who had set up on the Green for years made the move with the fair, preserving continuity for both sellers and shoppers. This year, Fair on the Half Shell will feature approximately more than 30 food trucks, kids’ activities including bounce houses, interactive coastal-themed programming, and community performances. The DMBA is also working to expand its small-business presence — offering emerging local entrepreneurs a platform to test products and services in front of a large, engaged crowd.
“For over 50 years, that iconic fair has been a beloved tradition and a cornerstone of Milford’s summer season,” says Maritza Quintuna, DMBA PR and social media director. “The Downtown Milford Business Association is proud to carry this cherished tradition forward — breathing new life into a legacy that continues to unite families, friends, and visitors from across Connecticut.”
ONE WEEKEND, ONE MILFORD
This August, the two events will run in deliberate concert. Fair on the Half Shell will take place during the day on Saturday, August 15, on the Green in downtown Milford. As the fair winds down, attendees can make their way to Fowler Field, where the Annual Milford Oyster Festival After Dark — the festival’s new name that reflects its two-evening format — will be in full swing from 4 to 10 p.m. Friday night’s festivities run from 5 to 10 p.m.
The intentional scheduling overlap is no accident. Both organizations have worked to ensure the day flows naturally from one event to the other, eliminating the dead time that frustrated some attendees last
year. The goal: a full, rich day in Milford — morning coffee and browsing on the Green, an afternoon of oysters and music at Fowler, and an evening that carries the energy all the way to 10.
“It seemed like a natural thing, another Milford nonprofit stepping in,” John says. “To give the people who love this weekend the ability to keep the tradition going.”
What binds both events together, ultimately, isn’t a shared organization or even a shared history. It’s something less formal and more durable: the spirit of Milford volunteerism. People who love this city, who want it to shine, who show up year after year — not for pay or recognition, but because this is their community and they want it to be great.
Bob Gregory, who helped start it all in 1975 and still drives around Milford with the license plate “Oysters 1,” would probably recognize that spirit immediately. Here we are, 52 years later. The canoe race is gone, the format has changed, and a new organization has picked up the fair — but the oysters are still coming in fresh from our waters, the music is still filling the summer air, and Milford is still showing up.
We’re
The Secrets of Charles Island
Pirates, buried treasure, and nesting birds — Milford's most mysterious landmark has more stories than meets the eye
ARTICLE BY MICHAEL DOYLE
PHOTOGRAPHY BY
CLIFF SCHORR, MARK ARNOLD
Milford’s coastal landmark, Charles Island, is a small, distinct island located amid the crashing waves of the Long Island Sound — a place many locals consider an important historical landmark in the city’s timeline. But few residents are familiar with the full history (some factual, some conjecture, some plain fun) surrounding this quintessential Milford mainstay.
The story of Charles Island begins with the purchase of the island from English settlers in the mid-seventeenth century, led by Charles Deal, who subsequently named the island after himself once the purchase had been finalized. To many outsiders, the story seems simple enough — but in addition to Deal’s acquisition of the island, another notable figure has left his mark on the area in a very different way.
Born in Scotland, William Kidd established himself as a well-respected and well-regarded sailor among his peers, and soon set out on an expedition to attack pirates and anyone working for the French on their respective ships — a mission that Kidd was named captain of. As Kidd continued his journey throughout the Atlantic Ocean, attitudes toward piracy had shifted, and the profession had fallen deeply out of favor. A constant state of tension and near-mutiny ran through the air among Kidd’s crew. The stress finally came to a head in 1699, when Kidd was arrested for piracy in connection with a British East India Company ship on May 23, 1701. Kidd’s importance to our story, however, is best understood through the alleged treasure he is said to have buried somewhere along the Long Island Sound before being caught for his crimes in Boston, Massachusetts. The treasure is said to have contained — though not been limited to — silver European coinage and gold bars, among other valuables Kidd had hidden away on his path to Boston.
So where does Charles Island enter the story?
Simply put, the legend of Kidd’s buried treasure is inextricably tied to Charles Island, as there is a strong and longstanding belief that the
treasure’s whereabouts are located on the island itself — which Kidd allegedly cursed in order to ward off treasure hunters. The force of that curse is easy to believe when you look at the history: attempts to inhabit the island have repeatedly ended in failure and abandonment, including the collapse of a Dominican friars’ retreat as far back as the 1930s. Charles Island’s pirate past has largely faded from popular memory since the state purchased the island in 1960 and folded it into Silver Sands State Park, steering the island into its next chapter — a bird sanctuary, a fitting transition from a storied, spooky island to a peaceful haven for our feathered friends.
And who doesn’t love birds? These lovable creatures, designed to live among the skies, have flocked to Charles Island to repopulate and thrive in community with one another, making the island a central habitat for several species. The most common among them include American Oystercatchers, seagulls, and herons, which frequent the area throughout the year. During the summer months — specifically from May 1 through August 31 — the island is closed to the public entirely in order to protect the birds’
CONTINUED >
“[The island] is still beautiful. I think what makes the island so beautiful today, though, is its haunting presence — it feels very mysterious.”
nesting ecosystem. For visitors who do make the trip outside those months, the island is accessible via a sandbar, more technically known as a tombolo. The sandbar can only be crossed at low tide, and visitors should always remain cautious and aware: there is a well-documented history of people being caught off guard when the incoming tide submerges the crossing. Who knows — maybe the island really is cursed by Captain Kidd after all. At approximately 14 acres and roughly half a mile from the Connecticut mainland, it’s also more of a walk than it appears from the shore. The surrounding waters, meanwhile, are excellent for fishing, with bluefish, flounder, and sand sharks all circling the island — a draw for anyone who enjoys the hobby.
For more personal insight into what Charles Island means to those who knew it up close, former Milford resident Claudia Kiely, 78, shared her experience visiting the island in the late 1980s. After marrying her husband Ken, the two would frequently take their small boat out to the island, where they would fish, admire the plants and wildlife, and swim in the surrounding waters. “Charles Island, even now, is still beautiful,” she recalls, “but as you can imagine in the 1980s, there was a lot more natural greenery on the island. I think what makes the island so beautiful today, though, is its haunting presence — it feels very mysterious.”
Overall, the mystique of the curse, combined with the remarkable life that can be found on Charles Island, makes it a perennial must-see attraction when visiting Milford. There is nothing quite like the island at dusk in the autumn, when Captain Kidd’s curse seems to whisper through the cool, foggy air — or the contrast of visiting in spring and early summer, when the sandbar invites you to walk toward it across the water. Make sure to carve out time for a trip to Charles Island the next time you’re in Milford, and keep your eyes open while you’re there. Maybe the treasure has been right in front of you all along.
CUSTOM FENCING SOLUTIONS
Beloved
ARTICLE BY HARSHITHA KOTHAPALLI
PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARK
ARNOLD; DMBA
Pirate's Day brings Captain Kidd's legendary tale back to life every year in downtown Milford
Buccaneers
Every summer, the streets of downtown Milford transform into a lively seaside spectacle filled with cheering families, costumed pirates, and the thrill of adventure. As ships sail into the harbor, children race through the crowds clutching treasure maps while performers and musicians bring the waterfront to life. What feels like a scene straight out of a storybook is actually one of Milford’s most beloved traditions: the annual Pirate’s Day celebration.
Now celebrating its 24th year, Pirate’s Day began with a simple but imaginative idea rooted in one of Milford’s most enduring legends: the story of Captain Kidd and his hidden treasure on Charles Island. The festival combines Milford’s rich history with family-friendly fun.
“It was a big hit from day one,” explained Tracy Bonosconi, President of the Downtown Milford Business Association. “This event draws the Milford community together, year after year, in ways we couldn’t have even imagined.”
The festival was originally designed to encourage families to explore downtown businesses through a pirate-themed treasure hunt. Children carry maps through town, visiting participating shops that reward them with “pirate booty” along the way. Over time, the event expanded across multiple locations including Fowler Field, the Milford Green, Milford Landing, and the Milford Historical Society.
Today, Pirate’s Day attracts crowds from across the region, but its heart remains rooted in keeping the hometown spirit alive.
“I think Milford residents have a real pride in their town and in their history,” Bonosconi said. “They show up for their community. And that’s what keeps traditions going.”
Part of Pirate’s Day’s enduring popularity comes from how naturally the pirate theme fits Milford’s identity as a coastal community. Charles Island has long been a defining part of Milford Harbor, and the mystery surrounding Captain Kidd’s rumored treasure continues to fascinate locals and visitors alike.
“People love a good pirate story,” Bonosconi said with a laugh. “And Milford brings it to life through its fun and whimsical identity.”
That community spirit is visible throughout the day. Families line the harbor waiting for Captain Kidd and his crew to arrive by boat, one of the festival’s signature moments. The pirates then dramatically “capture” the mayor, much to the delight of children watching nearby.
Moments like that have become part of Pirate’s Day folklore, adding to the event’s charm and longevity.
The Downtown Milford Business Association plays a central role in coordinating the celebration each year, organizing everything from activities and performances to logistics across downtown. Bonosconi describes Pirate’s Day as one of the organization’s “signature events,” designed not only to entertain but also to showcase the best of Milford’s businesses and public spaces.
“All of our events are focused around families and getting families out for the day into our downtown to enjoy it,” she said. “They’re an integral part of keeping it vibrant.”
For local businesses, Pirate’s Day provides an opportunity to connect with residents and visitors in a festive atmosphere. Shops become part of the adventure, handing out treats and welcoming families through their doors. The event encourages people to spend the day discovering local restaurants, boutiques, and waterfront attractions they may not otherwise visit.
Despite its continued growth, Bonosconi says the festival has reached a comfortable size. Rather than dramatically expanding it, organizers are focused on maintaining the experience families have come to love.
Still, a few traditions continue to evolve. One returning favorite this year is “Pancakes with Pirates,” a pirate-themed breakfast accompanied by live music from Rockin’ Ron the Friendly Pirate.
That balance between nostalgia and community may be exactly why Pirate’s Day continues to resonate with hundreds of attendees after nearly a quarter century. It celebrates Milford’s history while creating new memories for each generation of families who attend — and in many ways, that’s the real treasure.
This day proves to locals and visitors alike how Milford’s magic can bring a 300-year-old story back to life. Few towns can turn an ordinary summer day into a celebration filled with children chasing treasure maps, pirates sailing into the harbor, and neighbors gathering to celebrate the town they love. In a fast-moving world, Pirate’s Day remains a reminder that Milford’s motto — “A small city with a big heart” — still sails strong today.
PACK BOLD AND PLAY FREE
A DESIGNER’S GUIDE TO VACATION DRESSING
Vacation dressing is different from our everyday style — it’s our chance to dust off those statement pieces and finally give them room to shine. It’s time to scrap the 9-to-5 wear and embrace dopamine dressing: the same way visiting a new destination feels refreshing and exciting, your style should reflect that, too. Here are some tips and tricks for packing efficiently, packing thoughtfully, and packing with your own personal style in mind:
ARTICLE BY SOPHIA SCINTO
When I pack my carry-on, the number one thing I focus on is versatility with a splash of statement. I love taking those wardrobe staples (e.g. a simple
black top or white skirt) and pairing them with at least one standout item. The best part? Those basics pull double duty. They’re perfect for a quick coffee shop run in the morning, but can easily transform into a night out look when paired with something bold.
If I’m traveling somewhere with warm weather, palm trees, and crystal blue water, I always make sure to pack at least one SLS sarong set. I designed them to be versatile and reversible. The top and bottom combination can be styled 10+ different ways, making it feel like you’re bringing several outfits in one. There’s something fun about packing that reliable favorite — the piece you know won’t fail you no matter where the day takes you.
Aside from that, you know what my other favorite three letter word is? Set! A matching set will always be my best friend when I’m packing. You can decide later if you want to wear the top with something else or pair the bottoms with an entirely different look. Or wear the full set exactly as intended. It gives you options while knowing you already love each piece individually.
Last but certainly not least: jewelry. Accessories are often the finishing touch that hold the power of transforming a look entirely. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve reached for a simple black dress and let jewelry do all the talking. My SLS beaded statement bracelets and earrings have become my go to for elevating the look without overthinking it. It never fails.
Vacation is your time to reset and dress for yourself. Wear the things you love, and that can mean anything. Whatever makes you feel comfortable, relaxed, and ready to enjoy the moment—that’s exactly what belongs in your suitcase. Because the best vacation outfits are the ones that make you feel like the best version of yourself.
ABOUT SOPHIA:
Sophia Scinto is a Connecticut-based fashion designer, artist, and founder of SLS the Brand, known for her handmade clothing, jewelry, and fashion illustrations. Inspired by bold style and thoughtful craftsmanship, her work blends creativity with individuality through pieces designed to make people feel confident and memorable. When she’s not designing, Sophia shares behind-thescenes moments, style inspiration, and personal experiences through Designer Diary, her blog offering an inside look into fashion and creativity. Follow along at @sophiascinto and @slsthebrand, and visit slsthebrand. com to keep up with her latest work and Designer Diary.
Tax | Individual | Business
As we proudly celebrate our 25th year in Milford, we are honored to continue serving the individuals and businesses that define and elevate our community. In today’s increasingly intricate tax landscape, even seemingly straightforward returns demand careful attention. Constantly evolving regulations create opportunities—but also the risk of overlooking valuable deductions and credits. While software offers efficiency, it cannot replicate the discernment, strategy, and peace of mind provided by Robert Testo III and his experienced team at RJ Testo and Associates —trusted advisors committed to guiding you with precision, confidence, and care.
We Boast the Most Coast
FROM ICE CREAM AND BIRDWATCHING TO BOATING AND BEYOND — MILFORD'S SHORES HAVE IT ALL.
ARTICLE BY MADELINE BABCOCK | PHOTOGRAPHY BY CLIFF SCHORR, STAFF
Walnut Beach
Anchor Beach
Walnut Beach
When visiting Milford, exploring all five of the main beaches is an absolute must. Below is an overview of what each one has to offer — quirks, charms, and all.
Walnut Beach is a favorite among locals for many reasons, not least of which is the beloved Walnut Beach Creamery. Open since 2007, the Creamery has been serving up smiles and scoops to residents and tourists alike for nearly two decades, with an ever-expanding, rotating seasonal menu that keeps things fresh year after year. Also worth a stop is the Milford Arts Council Firehouse Gallery, a vibrant hub for art and inspiration, with exhibitions and workshops ready to welcome anyone who’s feeling creative.
Silver Sands Beach doubles as a state park and is a paradise for birdwatchers. The boardwalk is a popular spot for a leisurely morning or afternoon stroll, with plenty of scenic areas perfect for a picnic with friends and family.
Anchor Beach may be quieter than its counterparts, but what it lacks in activities, it more than makes up for in atmosphere. The sound of waves crashing against the rocks creates a naturally peaceful setting — a reminder that sometimes, a little peace and quiet is exactly what we need.
“Silver Sands Beach doubles as a state park and is a paradise for birdwatchers.”
Silver Sands
Gulf Beach is a boater’s haven, with several nearby marinas — including Port Milford, Milford Marina, and Spencer’s Marina — drawing both seasoned and first-time boaters out onto the water for fishing and other aquatic adventures. Gulf Beach is also home to the Milford Historical Society, where the city’s rich history is preserved and passed down for generations to come.
Woodmont Beach rounds out the five with a warm, tight-knit community feel that makes it especially appealing for anyone dreaming of life by the water. As part of the Woodmont borough, the beach is surrounded by great dining options to suit any mood, and the lush scenery makes it a natural backdrop for photos.
Gulf Beach
“Woodmont Beach [has]... a warm, tight-knit community feel that makes it especially appealing for anyone dreaming of life by the water.”
Timing Your Visit: What to Know Before You Go
Milford’s beaches are open year-round, but the experience varies greatly depending on the season. Summer — June through August — is peak beach season, with warm water temperatures, busy boardwalks, and all nearby amenities in full swing. If you prefer a quieter visit, early fall is arguably the best-kept secret: the crowds thin out, the weather stays mild, and the scenery takes on a beautiful golden quality that summer simply can’t offer.
A few practical tips to keep in mind: Silver Sands State Park closes Charles Island to visitors from May 1 through August 31 to protect nesting birds, so plan accordingly if that’s on your list. Parking at most beaches fills up fast on summer weekends, so arriving early is always a good idea. And if you’re planning to boat out of any of the Gulf Beach marinas, checking tide charts and weather conditions ahead of time will make for a smoother experience on the water.
However you choose to visit, a little planning goes a long way toward making the most of everything Milford’s shoreline has to offer.
Woodmont Beach
ARTICLE BY KALI KASPRZYK
PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
MAKEUP BY MIKAYLA CRANE
The 10% Target Mindset
Jen Cohen ON THE PRACTICE OF ASKING FOR WHAT YOU WANT
Winnipeg in the winter, and a 17-year-old waits 45 minutes in the cold for Keanu Reeves. Her fingers are numb. She is not there for an autograph. She is there to ask him to appear in her audition tape for MuchMusic, Canada’s MTV. When he finally agrees, she writes her number on a gum wrapper with a borrowed lip liner.
He calls days later.
That 17-year-old was Jen Cohen — fitness expert, host of the Habits & Hustle podcast, and best-selling author. She has built a career on the premise her frostbitten afternoon proved. She calls the practice the 10% Target: 10 attempts at whatever you want most in life.
The premise is simple. Most people never make one attempt. Almost nobody makes two. The math works in favor of the person who keeps going.
The top-rated Habits & Hustle podcast has logged hundreds of conversations with high performers and the people who study what the body does to the mind. Her TEDx talk, The Secret to Getting Anything You Want in Life, has traveled widely inside Fortune 500 sales-training rooms. On the Share the Lifestyle podcast, Cohen sits down to share the working rules that are the foundation of her latest book, Bigger, Better, Bolder.
“You have to be the CEO of your own life.”
FEATURING JEN COHEN
Discover the full 10% Target Mindset framework.
1 2
MAKE TEN ATTEMPTS
The door opens, or another door does. The unmade attempt and the refused one leave you in the same place — except one of them teaches you something.
STACK THE DECK
Cohen frames her habits as a wager: How do I stack the deck so I win more than I lose? The workout happens first, and the food decisions follow. The email follow-up gets sent, and the answer arrives. The choices compound in a single direction.
3
DISCIPLINE IS A PRACTICED SKILL, NOT AN INHERITANCE
No one is born with it. The people who look disciplined are running a routine they have rehearsed long enough that it no longer feels like effort. The reps are the skill. Miss them, and the skill fades, the same as any other.
4
SELF-TALK ONLY WORKS WHEN THE BODY BACKS IT UP
Confidence does not arrive by repeating the word. It arrives after the body has done the thing — the workout finished, the cold walk endured, the email sent. The mind takes its cues from what the body proves it can do. Talk follows action, not the other way around.
5
NEVER MISS A MONDAY
The first decision sets the slope of the rest. Skip the Monday workout, and the rest of the week tends to follow. Hold the line on Monday, and the slope tilts the other way.
A LEISURELY BARGE CRUISE ALONG FRANCE’S CANAL DU MIDI OFFERS
A QUIET LUXURY ESCAPE
THE SOUTH
escape to France of
There is something a bit magical about the South of France. It conjures images of rolling hills set along the Mediterranean, vast vineyards and olive trees swaying in the breezes. The images come to life when you book a luxury barge cruise with European Waterways ( EuropeanWaterways.com). It offers the perfect opportunity to experience the region’s slow pace.
Canal du Midi is a 330-year-old canal that runs from the Mediterranean coast inland through the famous Languedoc wine region. This is an opportunity for a true escape from everyday life.
WHAT IS A BARGE CRUISE?
Barges, originally used to shuttle goods along the inner waterways throughout
Europe, are now floating hotels. European Waterways operates b arges from April to October.
One of three boats to traverse Canal du Midi, Enchanté is an “ultra-deluxe” converted barge with four cabins for up to eight passengers. Each suite on Enchanté features an ensuite bathroom. All suites are on the lower level, while the salon,
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dining room, open kitchen and sun deck are above. The rooms are comfortable and quiet, the staff accommodating and the pace of the barge allows you to slow down and unwind. In fact, the barge moves slowly along the canal, giving passengers a chance to stroll along or ride one of the onboard bicycles.
THE BARGING EXPERIENCE
The barging experience is not anything like other cruises. With only eight passengers (although some boats have the capacity for 10 to 20 passengers), it provides a quiet escape.
Each day, you cruise slowly along the canal, going a total distance of about 50 miles over one week. The day’s leisurely routine begins with a sit-down breakfast and specially prepared dishes from the chef. You either cruise in the morning and take a short excursion in the afternoon, or vice versa.
Lunch is a gourmet 3-course meal paired with local wines. Dinner is a beautiful production with appetizers, main course, cheese course and dessert. Again, everything is paired with both a white and red wine.
EXCURSIONS ALONG THE WAY
Throughout the cruise, there are small stops along the way. This area of France is filled with gourmet delights and history, and you have a chance to explore both during your cruise.
You’ll visit l’Oulibo, a high-end olive oil producer growing Lucques olives. Enjoy a tasting of the oils and the olives, and pick up a few to take home. Another day, you’ll taste local balsamic vinegar. This is a real treat and a unique experience sampling a variety of flavors.
During the barge cruise, you’ll have a chance to visit three of what may be the most beautiful towns in France: Minerve, Lagrasse and Carcassonne. Lagrasse is an artisan town surrounding an 8th-century Benedictine Abbey. Minerve is home to a 12th-century Cathar fort with spectacular views. Carcassonne is a medieval fortified city with 52 watchtowers and portcullis.
There is also an excursion to Narbonne, once a Roman capital. There, you’ll have a chance to wander through Les Halles de Narbonne—the indoor food market—with the chef, picking out items for him to prepare once back onboard Enchanté.
European Waterways offers the ideal escape to the South of France and other destinations across Europe.
realty report
A SAMPLE OF RECENTLY SOLD PROPERTIES IN MILFORD.
Top residential transactions through 5/20/2026
Photo
JULY 2026
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
FRIDAYS IN JULY
Fridays After Five Summer Concert Series
Downtown Milford | 5:00 PM
Fridays After Five is a free outdoor concert series running through the summer in Milford, bringing live music to downtown on Friday evenings. Families are welcome to bring the kids, and little ones often take to the stage terraces for their own “star” performances. Pack a blanket, grab dinner from a nearby spot, and enjoy a free summer evening out.
JULY 4TH
Milford Road Runners
Independence Day 5K
Tribus Beer Co. | 9:30 AM
Lace up and celebrate America’s 250th birthday the right way — by running a 5K with your community. The Milford Road Runners’ Independence Day 5K kicks off at 9:30 AM and welcomes runners and walkers of all ages. All participants receive a custom shirt, free food, and a complimentary beer for those 21 and over.
JULY 4TH
Downtown Milford Farmers Market —
Independence Day Edition
Wasson Field | 8:30 AM
Start your Fourth of July morning with fresh-picked produce, artisan goods, and community spirit. The Downtown Milford Farmers Market runs every Saturday through October, featuring fresh produce from organic-practice farmers, meats, dairy, baked goods, food trucks, local vendors, and children’s activities. A festive holiday atmosphere makes this week’s market extra special.
The Prete Family has been flooring New Haven county since 1959. As the second generation owner of Ultimate Interiors, Buddy carries on the tradition of hands-on, high-quality workmanship that will last a lifetime. www.ultint.com |
Christina Prete and Buddy also took a lifelong passion for charitable work and created an app that helps nonprofits accomplish their mission To honor the Rackiewicz and Prete family’s commitment to giving, the Shopping Away mobile application provides a convenient way to connect those who ask, “How can I help?” with those who say, “Here’s what we need.” Go to shoppinganyway.com to download the FREE App and Support a Cause
Hand
Custom Furniture
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JULY 11TH - 12TH
East/West PlayFest 2026
Milford Historical Society | 4:00 PM
Each summer, Eastbound Theatre and Westport Community Theatre join forces for this beloved festival of original one-act plays. Five short works by playwrights from across the country come to life on the lawn of the Milford Historical Society. Bring a lawn chair and your best critic’s eye — audiences vote for their favorite. Admission is free.
JULY 16TH
Summer at Stonebridge — Live Band Karaoke with Drew
Stonebridge Restaurant | 6:00 PM Karaoke just got a serious upgrade. Live Band Karaoke with Drew brings a full live band to back you up as you take the stage at Stonebridge Restaurant. Whether you’re a shower-singer or a seasoned performer, this is your moment. No cover charge — just show up, sign up, and sing out. Ages 21+.
JULY 18TH
Downtown Milford Farmers Market — Children’s Market Edition
Wasson Field | 8:30 AM
The July 18 Children’s Market Edition of the Downtown Milford Farmers Market is a highlight of the summer season. Little ones take center stage with handson activities, kid-friendly vendors, and family programming woven throughout the market. Bring the whole family for a morning of fresh food, fun discoveries, and community connection right in the heart of downtown.
