Ridgefield, CT August 2023

DR. DA SILVA AND THE FINAL WEEKS OF SUMMER

The Kids & Pets Issue

As we savor the final weeks of summer, we dedicate this issue to the most precious members of our community, our kids and pets! In a world where most would agree that the youngest members of our society experience a more structured, pressure filled life than many of us did in our early years, the downtime in August is to be treasured and celebrated with our friends and family.

Our stunning cover photo is the Superintendent of our Schools, Dr. Susie Da Silva.  We bring you her thoughts about kids and summer and what she suggests families consider during the weeks that lead up to the first day of school. We also feature other community leaders who inspire and elevate our youth.

This issue highlights sentimental milestones too as the Pambianchi Family celebrates 75 years of service to the Ridgefield Community and a beautiful rescue of a local pup is a story that you will definitely want to celebrate!

Also, there is a collective for new moms in town that offers community and evidenced based medical advice for the ever so important fourth trimester which is such a critical time for new moms. Meet Sarah and learn more about the Parent Collective.

Sustainability is a hot topic for all ages so we are thrilled to feature students who are pioneering a zero waste initiative. In less than two months, Branchville Elementary School alone offset over 1,800 lbs of food waste through the new composting initiative that was rolled out this past Earth Day. Wow!

Finally, although we are still in the throes of summer, it is an ideal time to begin planning your winter holiday. We highlight three destinations to consider and sound travel advice from Dana Cox whose passion for travel allows you to soak up her beautiful view of the world.

Thanks to all of you for reading. It is my hope that you will feel more connected to our community of extraordinary families and gain an appreciation for our local community leaders who elevate our youngest citizens in so many ways. Our kids are coming of age during a time of great change and possibility. It is up to us collectively to propel our youth forward by embracing the strong foundation of family and community that Ridgefield is known for.

August 2023

PUBLISHER

Mary Dougherty | mary.dougherty@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Ashley Alt | ashley.alt@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

New Light Creative Services, Kristen Jensen Productions, LLC

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry

VICE PRESIDENT OF SALES Tiffany Slowinski

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson

DIRECTOR OF FIRST IMPRESSIONS Jennifer Robinson

TECHNICAL DIRECTOR Josh Klein

CONTROLLER Gary Johnson

AD DESIGNER Rachel Chrisman

LAYOUT DESIGNER Kathy Nguyen

MARY DOUGHERTY, PUBLISHER @RIDGEFIELDCITYLIFESTYLE

THE WORLD’S #1 IN ORTHOPEDICS TEAMS UP WITH STAMFORD HEALTH

HSS, the world's #1 in orthopedics according to Newsweek, is proud to team up with Stamford Health to bring the most comprehensive musculoskeletal care to Connecticut. Our industry-leading experts are here for you from diagnosis, non-surgical and surgical orthopedic treatment options, through post-operative care. Now you can get back to moving better and doing what you love, sooner.

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Most major insurance plans accepted.

city scene

Where neighbors can see and be seen.

1: A scene from Swan Lake at the Ridgefield School of Dance’s 25th Anniversary Performance. 2: Jasper Burger along with Katie Diamond From ACT of Connecticut’s production of THE SECRET GARDEN 3: A scene from the Ridgefield School of Dance’s 25th Anniversary Performance 4: A scene, Carnival of the Animals from the Ridgefield School of Dance’s 25th Anniversary performance. 5: Charlotte Ewing and Jasper Burger From ACT of Connecticut’s production of THE SECRET GARDEN 6: A scene from Swan Lake at the Ridgefield School of Dance’s 25th Anniversary Performance.

DANIEL RADER

DANIEL RADER

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8: Charlotte Ewing as Mary Lennox From ACT of Connecticut’s recent production of THE SECRET GARDEN 9: Charlotte Ewing as Mary Lennox From ACT of Connecticut’s recent production of THE SECRET GARDEN 10: Charlotte Ewing as Mary Lennox From ACT of Connecticut’s recent production of THE SECRET GARDEN 11: From ACT of Connecticut’s production of THE SECRET GARDEN 12: Families celebrating at Salem Golf Club 13: Golfing at Salem Golf Club 14: Enjoying the pool at Salem Golf Club

Customized Acne Treatment at The Greenwich Medical Spa

At Greenwich Medical Spa’s Acne Clinic, we provide a holistic approach to eliminating acne and guide and support you every step of the way. From an initial in-depth consultation, we see you for “checkups” every two weeks to continuously adjust your program based on your results and current skin needs. Give us a call at 203-637-0662 to schedule an acne clinic consultation.

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Register for Fall Classes at The Ridgefield School of Dance

The Ridgefield School of Dance is now accepting registrations for the 2023 - 2024 fall season which begins September 6. Renowned for its professional dance instruction in the classical ballet discipline, the school has a complete schedule of day and evening classes for ages 3 to adult. The Ridgefield School of Dance offers intensive instruction at all program levels and dance disciplines. For more information, go to theridgefieldschoolofdance.com or call 203-894-5957.

Grow Wellness Offers Yoga for All Ages

Check the schedule at Grow Wellness for yoga offerings for all ages. Grow Wellness has expanded its yoga and meditation class offerings within this hidden sanctuary in Ridgefield over the past few months. Explore a diverse range of weekly yoga classes as well as magical experiences like Goat Yoga, Glow in the Dark Women’s BUTI Yoga, Moon Workshops, Sound baths, Reiki courses, Day Retreats, Kitten/Puppy Rescue Yoga and so much more!

The Green Team Getting to Work at Branchville School

BRANCHVILLE STUDENTS LEAD DISTRICT TO “A PATH TO ZERO WASTE”

ARTICLE BY MARY DOUGHERTY

Food waste makes up 22% of the 2.4 million tons of trash in Connecticut. Branchville’s PTA launched a pilot program to reduce, recycle and compost cafeteria waste last spring. 'A Path to Zero Waste' officially rolled-out in Ridgefield on Earth Day, April 22nd.

The goal is to teach K-5th grade students to respect their environment. One way they can do that is by separating cafeteria waste into different bins, clearly labeled garbage, recyclables, food waste/compostables and liquids. A dedicated “green team,” comprised of parent volunteers/PTA, faculty and students is leading the charge. Branchville’s recent trash audit revealed that 78% of the municipal solid waste from cafeteria trash can be diverted.

"Branchville is ahead of the curve, but it takes a village to create sustainable change. If we encourage students, faculty and parents to get on the path to zero, we’ll limit our impact on the environment,” said BES Principal, Keith Margolus. "In

less than two months, we offset over 1,800 lbs of food waste through our composting initiative."

Since the Branchville rollout, all of the town elementary schools have embraced the Net Zero initiative. The goal is to compost at all locations, though this will not happen completely with the start of the upcoming school year.  We will first focus our efforts at the elementary level, moving upward to middle schools, and lastly the high school. The district goal is to have all schools composting before the end of the 2023-24 school year.

According to Principle Margolus, "the zero waste program has a goal of creating environmentally friendly habits in our youth. Our goal is to form these good habits in school, so our students will practice these good habits in their everyday lives throughout the future.”

How wonderful that our students are leading the way to a more sustainable Ridgefield!

Separating trash on Earth Day

BES Principal, Keith Margolus with students on launch day of the Net Zero Initiative

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The Legacy of Pamby Motors

SERVING RIDGEFIELD FOR 75 YEARS

The Pamby family offers their sincere gratitude to the Ridgefield community. Serving generations for 75 years as a family-run company has been a pleasure for the dealership's team, evidenced by their community involvement and dedication to their customers.

That next-generation ingenuity and trust are few and far between when it comes to small businesses, but is the reality of the Pambianchis, third generation owners of Pamby Motors.

The business was passed down to Pamby's current owners, brothers John, Mike, and Fred, from their father Matty and Uncle Harry. "We're now selling cars to the grandkids of some of our first customers," Fred stated.

Sons of the owners, Tim, Nick and Andy, make up Pamby's management. All three of them also serve in the Ridgefield Fire Department, and have kids of their own who are all immersed in Ridgefield's schools and local activities.

"We don't just own the business," Tim said. "We actually live it and are here every day." Their employees stay for the long haul too, most of them sticking around for 20, 25, and 30 years. "What can I say, we make it fun around here," John commented.

"We give our customers that sense of familiarity," Mike remarked. "It's not customer 426 we're helping out. It's Mrs. Jones coming in telling us about her kid's school play."

Like John said, "Here's to 75 more years" of serving Ridgefield they've called home forever.

ARTICLE BY ASHLEY ALT | PHOTOGRAPHY BY NEW LIGHT CREATIVE SERVICES

Pamby owners

Pamby Motors Thanks the Community for 75 Years!

Photo: Macklin Reid, Ridgefield Press

Nick, Andy, John, Mike, Tim and Fred Pambianchi. (left to right)

Matty Pambianchi with his three sons.

Third generation Nick, Andy, Tim.

photo by stevewhite.photography

Where in The World is Dr. Langberg?

ARTICLE BY ASHLEY ALT PHOTOGRAPHY BY KRISTEN JENSEN PRODUCTIONS, LLC

Dr. Blaine Langberg is not your typical orthodontist. When he’s not straightening teeth, you can find him at the local comedy club doing standup or at a writer’s workshop honing his writing craft. Fun fact: he is also an author who wrote a book titled “Journey of a Jubu: How a Neurotic Jew Found His Inner Bu.”

His genuine love for the local community is undeniable. If there’s one thing you take away from this piece, let it be Dr. Langberg’s easy sense of humor and ability to have fun.

Partnering with a host of local organizations including the Boys and Girls Club, the Ridgefield Library, the Prospector Theater, the Thanksgiving Day Race, and so many more, Dr. Langberg is passionate about giving back to the community as much as possible because he has been living and breathing Ridgefield for 20+ years, the same amount of time he has held his Orthodontist practice on 17 Danbury Road in Girolmetti Court.

“My wife and I really value education,” Dr. Langberg said. “And we love giving back because the community here has been so amazing to us." He routinely gives patients gift cards to the

Prospector, sponsors the arts in Ridgefield, and supports sports organizations like SCORE for soccer, Ridgefield Girls Softball, and high school wrestling, skiing and lacrosse. His three daughters are as immersed in Ridgefield as he is, all involved in dance, theater, sports and other town activities, carrying out their father's commitment to community.

His policy? “We’ll always say ‘yes’ to our patients if they ask us to sponsor something.”

So, what is this "Around the World with Dr. Langberg" program, and why does he do it? If you're familiar with the "Flat Stanley" concept, it's essentially a play off of that. For those unfamiliar, Flat Stanley is a character in a children's book series. As seen in the stick figures of Dr. Langberg, the purpose of this fun travel to-do is to promote an interest in learning about different people and places amongst travel escapades.

The gist? His patients send him photos of themselves “around the world” vacationing with their families as a fun way to stay connected. “It’s a way for the patients to have fun when they’re not here, and to chat about it in the chair,” he says simply. “We always love having fun here,” Dr. Langberg says, smiling. “It starts with putting the braces on, and after we take the braces off, we dance and celebrate. We march around, put music on, put silly hats on,” he says.

Kids have taken him to New Zealand, Japan, and "all over, really," he says of the mini Dr. Langbergs. “They put me in bathing suits on their beach vacations, and even posed me as a character from Game of Thrones,” he laughs.

As for Dr. Langberg specifically, he loves adventure and travel of any kind. From hiking Mount Kilimanjaro (no big deal?!) and going on a Safari to exploring Patagonia and visiting the national parks in Utah, the orthodontist/comedian/ author’s love for beautiful scenery and adventure is no secret. “When I’m not straightening teeth,” he laughs, “My favorite cities to explore include Prague and Vancouver.”

On a more serious note, the sincerity for his patients is undeniable, in every regard. "We care about our patients and this is one way we share experiences together," he says.

“We always love having fun here. It starts with putting the braces on, and after we take the braces off, we dance and celebrate.”

TOP WINTER HOLIDAY DESTINATIONS

Winter is a popular time for travel destinations — most of us want to escape the cold and head to warm getaways. Planning early allows you to get the best deals on flights, provides a wider range of options to choose from, and avoids disappointment when it comes to securing your desired destination.

Dana Cox is the founder and creator of the Cox Travel Adventure brand. We sat down to chat with her about her top travel picks for this year, including the travel trends she’s beginning to see. "We want to build inspiring, fulfilling travel dreams for people," Dana remarks. "Travel has a beautiful power to enrich lives and foster that cultural understanding which is how we can come closer together rather than being divided."

The first travel destination she recommends is Bali, Indonesia. “I understand it’s a far flight,” Dana stated. “The reason I say Bali is because it is known for its stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and lush landscapes.” The culture is “really interesting,” she affirms, offering a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure, whether you’re going with a group, your significant other, or even solo.

For adventure buffs who want to climb mountains to those interested in exploring Bali’s rich history of ancient temples, the island is a really special place to explore. “I love a spa treatment,” Dana said, remarking that Bali is a common spot for wellness retreats. “They have these wonderful, world class spa treatments with flower baths, massage, and tea that provides a truly enchanting experience,” she said.

Many of the resorts have cool bungalows where you get floating breakfasts right up to your room, water sports to fill the afternoon, and luxury dining experiences come nightfall. “My husband and I experienced a private cave dinner with music and candles once,” Dana said. “It was a fantastic experience.”

The travel expert also states that Central Bali in particular has a little bit of everything — lush and green landscapes surrounded by rice terraces, small traditional villages full of local markets, and a downtown area filled with arts and culture, and a “lively nightlife” equipped with high-end dining options and upscale shopping boutiques.

Second on the list is Iceland. Breathtaking landscapes include glaciers, geysers, and waterfalls, to which Dana recommends if you’re there, “you have to do the whole bath thing,” referring to the thermal baths in the hot springs.

ARTICLE BY ASHLEY ALT

“If you love nature, Iceland is a paradise for you,” Dana confirms. “Depending on the time of year you go, you can experience the northern lights.” Hiking through the national parks “is a dream,” she says, that offers really unique and

NOW IS THE IDEAL TIME TO BOOK YOUR WINTER GETAWAY!

“THE REASON I SAY BALI IS BECAUSE IT IS KNOWN FOR ITS STUNNING BEACHES, VIBRANT CULTURE, AND LUSH LANDSCAPES.” THE CULTURE IS “REALLY INTERESTING,” SHE AFFIRMS, OFFERING A PERFECT BLEND OF RELAXATION AND ADVENTURE, WHETHER YOU’RE GOING WITH A GROUP, YOUR SIGNIFICANT OTHER, OR EVEN SOLO.”

unforgettable journeys like walking through town at night. “It looks like a Hallmark movie plug-in light,” Dana recalls. “It’s something you remember that has that homey and quaint feel.”

Her third recommendation is Portugal. Offering a very rich history, Portugal is full of vibrant cities and picturesque coastlines that again, have something for everyone to enjoy.

“You can explore vineyards and relax on the beautiful beaches,” Dana said. “It is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered,” as the southern European country is not (yet) bogged down by tourists.

Touching a bit on trends of travel, Dana pleasantly states that people are looking for a more authentic and immersive experience when they travel, to which she recommends to “try off the beaten path types of things. Less of the ‘I want to get the Instagram shot’ and more connecting with the local culture and really embracing what another world has to offer.”

Dana Cox is the founder and creator of the Cox Travel Adventure brand. We sat down to chat with her about her top travel picks for this year, including the travel trends she’s beginning to see.

DANA COX

ARTICLE BY ASHLEY ALT

PHOTOGRAPHY BY NEW LIGHT CREATIVE SERVICES

Dr. Da Silva AND THE FINAL WEEKS of Summer

Dr. Susie Da Silva’s three year anniversary as the superintendent of Ridgefield public schools was this past April. She sat down with us to share her many words of wisdom on the importance that life outside of the classroom has on not only the impact of students, but parents too, illustrating that we hold the power to create our own happiness — no matter where we are.

“The journey of school is no different than the journey of life,” Dr. Da Silva stated. “There are going to be births and deaths, and you’re going to need energy to get through the tough moments.

Her wish for the students of Ridgefield is to enjoy the gift of time and space to be a kid before school starts up again. “The reality is you will never get this time back,” she notes of childhood summers. “Time and health are the two most important things in life, and it’s paramount to take care of them.”

She mentions back to school time is one of excitement, but can also be a source of anxiety for parents — worrying about friendships, change in teachers, and all things that happen outside of the classroom —in addition to more challenging academics.

“School is a system and a structure that will always be there once summer has passed,” she said. “It is a luxury that is going to support you. I like to tell parents it’s a 13-year journey that’s going to come with bumps and bruises along the way, and that we are all here as a support for those moments.”

Dr. Da Silva explains there is a mistaken mindset that growth and learning only comes within the four walls, and that is not the case. She advises both students and parents to really enjoy the in-between times of the school year including February break, April break, and other holidays where “kids should just be kids.”

Academics are obviously important — but the social and emotional side of learning should not be overlooked, she emphasized. “When they go off in the real world, they need to be able to work with people,” she states of all students. “That comes from being on a sports team and going on playdates. And at the end of the day, being kind is what matters most.”

In the summer, she likes to take advantage of every moment. From sharing tapas on a patio with her husband to taking their cavapoo for a swim, spending time with her family is “incredibly important” to her.

“It doesn’t have to be fancy or expensive to be a great experience,” Dr. Da Silva says of soaking up the last month of summer. Married to her husband for 25 years now, the two of them share three children together — Gabriela who will head to college this Fall, Isabela who will be a junior in high school, and Andrè who will be a high school freshman.

“What’s important to us as a family is humor,” she says smiling, in addition to staying physically active. “You have to be able to laugh at yourself,” she continued. “Otherwise what is life about? It’s about joy and fulfillment and laughter. In the schools just as much as at home, we create situations where we strive to bring happiness.”

Her family is adventurous with travel, loving going abroad as much as they enjoy a day at the beach playing in the sand and shells. Portugal is her number one place to travel (she is Portuguese, after all), and second is Spain. “We love the natural vineyards of these places,” she says. “Not the touristy parts of any country but the authentic part. We like to travel the roads less traveled you could say.”

Both Dr. Da Silva and her husband were raised in poverty, so they understand what it means to be immersed in a country that might not be so glamorous, but one that is rich in history and authenticity. “We’ve come to love the natural roots of any location,” she says. Even when we go to New York City, you’re not going to find us where the tourist spots are. For us, it’s really about getting to know a place’s culture.”

For these final weeks of summer, Dr. Da Silva emphasizes that the best memories often come from the simplest experiences, like being on the back deck throwing marshmallows on the fire and playing with your siblings with chalk on the driveway.

“It’s the moments before the Instagram photo where you had to flip the shirt inside out because someone spilled paint on it before the family portrait,” she says. Dr. Da Silva advises parents to take advantage of the small moments, whether you’re in the throes of toddlerhood or preparing to send your youngest to college.

“Time and health are the two most important things in life, and it’s paramount to take care of them.”

Tips For Sustainable Back To School Shopping

ARTICLE BY ASHLEY ALT

HOW TO SHOP SUSTAINABLY FOR BACK TO SCHOOL CLOTHES

Who says sustainability has to be boring? Typical sustainable shopping options touted by fashion experts include buying from consignment shops, renting, and repairing old clothes. These are all great options. But you’re allowed to get creative with your sustainability efforts. And when it comes to doing so for your kids, your back-to-school shopping bonanza can turn out to be smart and fun.

As a stylist and mom of a 7-year-old and 2-year-old, I can attest to the convenience that Amazon offers. While searching for “boys skinny jeans” and “toddler dresses” is undoubtedly easier than hopping in the car and rummaging through racks of kids clothing, giving into the temptation of clicking a button and waiting for a package almost always disappoints — either in quality of garments or that crummy feeling of guilt for contributing to the fast fashion industry.

In order to prevent that, “It’s one week before school already?!” feeling of panic, here are my recommendations for sustainable back to school shopping for your kids.

THRIFTING

Local thrift stores are secret gold mines for new-to-you treasures. (The Ridgefield Thrift Shop in particular). This includes resale shops, vintage stores and any place that sells second-hand clothing and accessories. You can feel extra good about supporting a small business that relies on the contributions of local residents.

DO A CLOTHING SWAP WITH FRIENDS

A few months ago, I attended a clothing swap with a few friends. We gathered a handful of items from our own closets that we no longer used, brought them to the clothing swap event and had a really fun evening "swapping" clothes. It was the clearest “One man’s trash is another’s treasure” testament I had ever experienced.

Hold your own clothing swap with friends or neighbors.

GO ON A TAG SALE ADVENTURE

All of those “Tag Sale” signs you see on street corners in the summer months? Stop by a few and see what’s there. A lot of them are ridding furniture and houseware items, but some are selling vintage goods like durable jackets, well-made shirts and leather shoes. Check them out!

ONLINE MARKETPLACES (THAT AREN'T AMAZON)

Much like the treasure troves of thrift shops and tag sales, online marketplaces like Poshmark (it's an app) are incredible for searching for exactly what you want, and getting it at a low price.

I utilize Poshmark for my son's jeans, sneakers and jackets when he's in need of an upgrade due to wear and tear of his old items or has outgrown his favorite clothes.

PURCHASING NEW

Sustainability translates to quality and durability. When buying new, be mindful of the fabric, quality and style of the garment. A denim jacket, for example, is an excellent piece to invest in, no matter what age your child is. Being mindful includes making sure your kids can rewear new items multiple ways, which isn't hard to do with a cotton tee and good pair of jeans.

I love purchasing new from spots in town like Sammy + Nat, specifically for birthday gifts. The next time you throw a birthday party for your child, why not

request guests get an item of clothing instead of a toy? It may not be as exciting as a new race car or doll baby (unless you're my niece who loves clothes and everything to do with dressing up), but it is way more practical. Maybe it can even teach children to get excited about receiving a brand new cardigan equally as much as a robot. We can dream!

“It was the clearest ‘One man’s trash is another’s treasure’ testament I had ever experienced.”

ARTICLE BY ASHLEY ALT

PHOTOGRAPHY BY NEW LIGHT CREATIVE SERVICES

A Collective For New Moms

NAVIGATING THE FOURTH TRIMESTER, TOGETHER

Friendship is important at any stage of life, but is arguably most crucial for new moms.

More than ever, moms are craving connection and support during that crucial postpartum period, aptly named the fourth trimester.

Speaking from personal experience, local resident Sarah McConnachie has made it her mission to prevent those feelings of isolation and struggle through The Parent Collective, a resource offering support from medical experts and evidenced-based information to create community.

From postpartum doulas to mental health specialists, "This is about realizing there is a community out there for you," Sarah said.

Reach Sarah at theparentcollective.com

HOMEMADE STRAWBERRY ICE CREAM

Homemade Strawberry Ice Cream from food blogger and dessert lover Michelle Verkade.

// Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups strawberries, hulled and diced

• 2 tbsp honey

• 1/2 cup granulated sugar

• 1 tsp lemon juice

• 1 cup heavy whipping cream

• 1/2 cup half and half

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

// Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, mix strawberries, honey, sugar, and lemon juice. Allow to sit 15-20 minutes.

2. Mash the mixture with a fork until there are no longer any large strawberry pieces (if you prefer a smooth ice cream, use a blender or food processor instead).

3. To the strawberries, mix heavy cream, half and half, and vanilla extract. Stir just until combined.

4. Pour the mixture into your ice cream maker, allowing for 15-20 minutes to churn. You can eat the ice cream softserve, or freeze it in an airtight container for 3-4 hours to thicken it up. For best results, allow the ice cream to sit at room temperature for 5 minutes before serving.

5. Enjoy!

Are you looking for help booking your next trip? We can help with that!

Pup Rescued By an Overhead Drone

ARTICLE BY ASHLEY ALT

During a recent thunderstorm, Selina Bell's front door blew open causing her 16-year-old Shih Tzu to escape. "He got disoriented and lost his way," Selina said. "He has cataracts and doesn’t hear well, so we were very concerned." The dog, Chewy, was lost overnight.

The next morning, CT Dog Gone Recovery Volunteer Network helped Selina and her family search for Chewy, mentioning Mike with Heatseekers Drone Services might be able to help. "I was willing to try anything," Selina said. "I knew if Chewy spent one more night in the elements, he would die."

Within ten minutes, Mike found Chewy across the street. "We never would have found him because he was stuck in the bushes," Selina said. "We are so grateful for Mike!"