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But the truth is - that is really a sad and unfulfilling way to go through life.
We must leave some room for exploring, for trying new places and things, for being a beginner, even for getting lost. It is those times that are unstructured and open-ended where the space exists for connections to be made, friendships to be fostered and trust to be built.
In the last few months, I've really been analyzing my relationship with my kids, how our family operates as a unit and what we love spending our time doing. The way I made this more clear, was to first focus on the things that I don't love spending time on. For our family - it’s screens. For yours, it may be too many busy weeknights away from home or not enough dinners around the table together. But I've noticed that "adventures" and “exploration” don't even have to be something big and crazy. It can be playing a board game out on the patio, walking a new trail or going out to find a fun cookie place we've never been to before in a different part of town.
Our hope is that this issue encourages you to make room for exploration. To prioritize time away from the regular schedule of life. To lose yourself on a trail or in a book. To book that trip you’ve been thinking about, to make time for the things that matter most to you, but often come last on the calendar.
BRUCE BERNSTEIN, PUBLISHER @RIDGEFIELDLIFESTYLEMAGAZINE
July 2024
PUBLISHER
Bruce Bernstein | bruce.bernstein@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Samantha Beranbom | samantha.beranbom@ citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Kate Wark
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Kate Wark Photography
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Rachel Chrisman
LAYOUT DESIGNER Amanda Schilling
Family-run GOFER Ice Cream is a Main Street scoop shop offering over 50 award-winning flavors, including non-dairy options and custom photo cakes. It even has a party room in the back. Please stop by to try their top flavors like Sea Salt Caramel Oreo or Graham Slam, drop your kids off during one of their movie nights, or host your child’s next birthday party. After all, it’s always a great day to GOFER ice cream! gofericecream.com
Jill Rae Designs, LLC is a full-service, luxury Home Build, Renovation, and Staging company. Located in Ridgefield, Connecticut, we service Fairfield County and the surrounding area. Jill Rae, along with Kim Harper and Mariah Murphy are passionate about creating spectacular spaces! We will transform your space by ensuring every design results in a unique and beautiful place. From full home builds to sprucing up your family room, we keep our client’s lifestyle top of mind. jillraedesigns.com
Mindful Drift Yoga is a unique mobile yoga studio that brings the practice of yoga to serene indoor and outdoor spaces in Fairfield and Westchester counties! We also provide private group sessions, including kids' yoga parties, corporate yoga, and 1:1 lessons. Andrea Petroni creates a welcoming environment for all levels of practitioners. Visit our website to learn more and book your next session with us! mindfuldriftyoga.com
ARTICLE
SCHOENGOLD
Salem Golf Club is a summer vacation right in Ridgefield's backyard. Whether you are looking for a little 'me-time' or a place to spend outside with the whole family, the beautiful 18-hole private golf club in Northern Westchester County offers an array of memberships and benefits that fit every lifestyle. Lush greens and an abundance of amenities make Salem the perfect place to unwind, relax, and soak in the sunshine, all while improving your golf game, conveniently close to home.
Enjoy the driving range, putting green and short game area. The Club operates with no tee times for maximum member flexibility since reservations are not required. Post-game, members can take advantage of the fitness center or relax by the pool and enjoy the extensive menu at The Clubhouse, which is also host to various Summer and Fall events to mingle with members, including Clambakes, Holiday BBQs, and Pool Parties. With scenic views, The Clubhouse's ballroom is also the perfect venue for special occasions, from weddings to corporate events. Kids are kept busy with fun activities, including junior camps, where they can work on their own swing when not poolside.
At Salem Golf Club, resident experts Kevin Breen, Head Golf Professional/Instructor, and Chris White, Assistant Golf Professional, are your secret weapon to help you advance your game. Whether you're a seasoned player or a beginner, their advice and knowledge are invaluable as you plan your tee time at Salem. Here, they share key tips for improvement to help with the lifelong quest of improving the performance of your golf game.
1. Place club in fingers, left thumb should be positioned to the right of center.
2. Close the gap between the left thumb and the index finger, having two knuckles visible.
3. The heel pad of your left hand should be on top of the shaft.
4. Your right hand comes in facing the target.
5. Lifeline should cover the left thumb.
At Salem, you will often find yourself with the ball sitting above or below your feet. When the ball is below your feet, bend more at the knees when you take your stance. The natural tendency of the shot is to go more right of your target; therefore, you should aim more left of your intended target. When the ball is above your feet, choke down on the club and grip closer to the shaft. The ball will tend to go more left of your target; therefore, you should aim more right of your intended target. When the ball is on an uphill lie, tilt your spine angle to match the slope. The uphill lie will cause the ball to launch much higher in the air with more spin, so consider taking an extra club. When the ball is on a downhill lie, tilt your spine angle to match the slope. The downhill lie will cause the ball to launch much lower than normal with less spin, so consider clubbing down.
When practicing, utilize an alignment stick or club to ensure your footline and target line are parallel and pick out a specific target. When practicing without alignment aids, we can believe we are hitting the intended shot, but we might be aiming too far left or right of our intended target. Try to pick any irregularity or focus on a piece of grass about three feet in front of the ball that lines up with your target. If you hit the ball on this line, it will ensure you have hit your intended target.
Many new drivers and woods allow players to adjust the loft at the tip of the shaft. If your shots are overfading or slicing, try increasing the loft. When the loft is increased, it naturally closes the face of a driver or fairway. If your shots are overdrawing or hooking, try decreasing the loft. When the loft is reduced, it naturally opens the club face of a driver or fairway.
The speed of a putt dictates the effective size of the hole. The size of a standard golf hole is 4.25 inches in width. One revolution of the golf ball is 5.26 inches, about the length of a dollar bill. Each revolution of the golf ball shrinks the effective width of the hole by 12%. The harder you hit a putt, the smaller the hole gets and, in turn, has less chance of going in.
Salem Golf Club
18 Bloomer Rd, North Salem, NY 10560 (914) 669-5485
salemgolfclub.org
THE SPEED OF A PUTT DICTATES THE EFFECTIVE SIZE OF THE HOLE.
ARTICLE BY SAMANTHA SCHOENGOLD BERANBOM PHOTOGRAPHY BY ABBY COLE PHOTOGRAPHY
Combining expertise, state-of-the-art technology, personalized care, and a thoughtful approach, Ridgefield Orthodontics is a welcome addition to town. Get to know, Dr. Nithya Chalikonda.
Q: TELL ME A LITTLE ABOUT YOURSELF AND YOUR CONNECTION TO THE COMMUNITY.
A: Like so many of us, I fall into many roles! I’m a daughter, sister, friend, wife, and mom (to two wonderful little ladies). I’m also an orthodontist and, most recently, a practice owner. I love all these roles; each one helps me become better in its own way. I have lived in Fairfield County for the past five years and have raised my girls here. Ridgefield is ultimately where I decided to open my Practice because I could sense the strong bond and shared values within the town and that has always been my vision for the community I serve.
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Q: WHAT IS YOUR PROFESSIONAL BACKGROUND AND THE CATALYST FOR YOUR PRACTICE?
A: I have always been in the Northeast. I went to undergrad at New York University, dental school at Temple University in Philadelphia, and back to New York to complete my orthodontic specialty residency. I love orthodontics because I have the opportunity to establish wonderful relationships with my patients and their families. I see kids blossom and adults find new comfort and confidence. I decided to open my Practice because I was able to curate the culture and the experience for our patients. That was most important to me. All orthodontists can do great work, but I wanted to create a place people could trust, be comfortable and enjoy coming to.
Q: WHAT IS YOUR SPECIALTY AND OVERALL PHILOSOPHY?
A: I focus on each patient’s individual smile journey; everyone is so unique in their needs and goals. The most important aspect for me is the initial visit, where we discuss what each patient requires to achieve the most functional and aesthetic smile. We discuss the different options to educate and inform the patient and their family on different modalities so we can figure out which will work best and most efficiently for them. Starting with a good foundation in treatment is critical!
Q: WHO IS YOUR TYPICAL PATIENT AND WHAT CAN THEY EXPECT DURING A TYPICAL FIRST VISIT?
A: I don’t think we have a “typical patient.” We see patients of all ages and in all stages of life. Starting at the age of 6-7 all the way to patients in their 80s! Their first visit is usually very similar, though- we start with their medical history and concerns and take a full set of records, including x-rays and photographs, along with an exam. Once I have all this information, I talk them through their treatment plan and the different ways we can work to achieve their goals.
Q: YOU OFFER TREATMENT FOR KIDS, TEENS AND ADULTS. CAN YOU DISCUSS THE DIFFERENCES IN CARE DURING THESE PHASES?
A: Yes! We start to see kids around age 7, and they are typically referred by their dentist to check on their growth and development. Many young kids don’t need treatment early on, but it is always helpful to get a good baseline. If they do need treatment, it is usually for issues such as crowding, asymmetric bite and even airway concerns. This is the ideal time to treat these issues since kids are still growing and the bones are more pliable- we usually treat with appliances such as expanders and braces. I love
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treating this age because we see such profound results quickly.
When kids reach their teen years, treatment is sought to correct their bite and alignment. They typically have lost all their baby teeth at this time and are ready for full treatment, either with braces or clear aligners. I often feel like orthodontic treatment is a rite of passage for middle or early high school kids! We are able to get their ideal result for them to maintain and enjoy through adulthood.
Adults usually come in due to their concerns about esthetics and their bite. As we age, teeth tend to shift due to muscle and facial changes. A familiar story is those adults who may have had treatment at a younger age but stopped wearing their retainer and now seek treatment to regain their “perfect” smile. We have many options for adults, including traditional braces, the more esthetic clear aligners, and hidden (behind the teeth) braces.
Q: WHAT ARE SOME OF YOUR FAVORITE THINGS TO DO IN RIDGEFIELD DURING THE SUMMER?
A: My kids keep us so active! We always do things outside, and there is no shortage of activities. We are at a park, at a weekend fair, or trying a new restaurant. This year, we will check out the concerts at Ballard Park.
Q: WHAT DO YOU FIND THE MOST REWARDING?
A: The most rewarding part is turning a dream into a reality. My dream was to open a Practice that would be a cornerstone in the community, serving the members with personalized care and supporting others around us. We’re only one year in, and I’m excited to see what is on the horizon.
Ridgefield Orthodontics 38B Grove Street ridgefieldortho.com
A FRESH MIX OF HISTORIC DETAILS, MODERN AMENITIES, AND WARM HOSPITALITY
Taking the scenic drive down Route 35 from New York, one passes homes, a gas station or two, and a sprawling horse farm. But the charm factor intensifies while entering Ridgefield proper - particularly when, on your left, a rambling white colonial is spotted - the one with the inviting front porch and a little sign out in front that reads: West Lane Inn.
The West Lane Inn, a Ridgefield landmark steeped in history, was built in 1849. Once the cherished property of the Bissell Family of Bissell Pharmacy, it now rests in the capable hands of innkeepers Christine Carnicelli and Danille Petrie. These long-time Ridgefielders, who have raised their children in town, took over the inn in October 2019, just months before the pandemic temporarily shut them down. They faced the challenge with resilience, using the time to oversee renovations, including a new HVAC system, refreshed decor, and new hardwood flooring - and have been welcoming guests since the reopening in June 2020.
This fall, they will celebrate five years of West Lane Inn, a testament to their dedication and the inn's enduring charm.
As beautiful as the inn is from the road, what awaits inside is decidedly more special, thanks to Christine's and Danille's special touch. With a mix of original details – woodwork and wallpaper included - and newer additions brought by bright, fresh artwork, estate sale pieces, and colorful, upholstered headboards, each guest room is a surprise and delight.
There are 14 unique guest rooms within the inn building and three in a separate building out back. The three have kitchenettes that make them ideal
THE WEST LANE INN IS A ONE-OF-A-KIND DESTINATION FOR ADVENTURES.
for longer stays, including snowbirding couples who stay for full summers. The rooms inside the inn each have their own flavor and configuration, but there is an option for nearly every traveler, from couples and families to friends visiting town for a show. Stocked with Molton Brown products and crisp Frette linens, each guest room has its own individualized decor and a private ensuite bathroom and heating and air conditioning, a recent - and necessary - upgrade for the comfort of all guests.
West Lane Inn attracts a host of visitors, from wedding guests to New Yorkers enjoying a summer weekend to
those visiting to house hunt in town.. but what it offers the community cannot be overlooked. Christine and Danille currently employ an all-female staff, and each one warmly greets guests and jumps in to handle the many facets of inn life. The front desk attendant also makes the Friday afternoon chocolate chip cookies, which are a must-have. While keeping an inn humming is no easy task, the innkeeping duo cheerfully joke that they feel like the Chamber of Commerce because they often share insider tips and suggestions about local activities with guests. The inn's location makes for an ideal jumping-off point for exploring
town, as it's within walking distance to Ridgefield's Hallmark movie set-worthy Main Street.
While the design feels fresh and modern, many original details have been lovingly retained, and historical books and framed images of the inn from older days can be found throughout the property. Ridgefielders and folks from nearby towns should not miss breakfast at the inn, prepared fresh daily from 8:00 - 10:30 am, and can be enjoyed inside or in fairer weather on the charming covered porch. So whether it's for a staycation, a breakfast meeting, or to stay for a weekend from farther afoot, the West Lane Inn is a one-of-akind destination for adventures.
West Lane Inn is located at 22 West Lane, Ridgefield, CT. For more information on the boutique property, and to make a reservation, visit westlaneinn.com .
ARTICLE BY SAMANTHA SCHOENGOLD BERANBOM
A.C.T. OF CT CONCLUDES THEIR SIXTH SEASON AND ANNOUNCES THE NEXT!
The final performance of the smash hit musical Kinky Boots took place just a couple of weeks ago, thus concluding A.C.T. (A Contemporary Theater) of Connecticut’s spectacular sixth season. And what a year it was! With sold-out performances and rave reviews, the theater’s 2023/2024 season was phenomenal and deeply resonated with audiences. Sunset Boulevard, Million Dollar Quartet, and Kinky Boots took Fairfield County by storm, with all three productions garnering critical success and breaking box office records.
Never resting on their laurels, A.C.T. of CT is now hard at work on their upcoming 2024/2025 season beginning September 2024 and running through June 2025. At their fabulous annual “Season Announcement Gala”, held on June 7th, A.C.T. of CT gala attendees were the first audiences to find out what productions will be in store for the upcoming season. Hosted by A.C.T. of CT’s Artistic Director Daniel C. Levine, Producing Director Erin Craig, and President of the Board Katie Diamond, the gala was a glorious and glamorous event complete with performances from past A.C.T. of CT stars, as well as several other incredibly talented Broadway celebrities. A.C.T. of CT’s Resident Music Supervisor Bryan Perri,
whose Broadway credits include Wicked, Jagged Little Pill, Almost Famous, and Chaplin -to name a few- led the gala’s band, and guests were over the moon to learn about next season’s line up of shows. From the stage, Artistic Director Daniel C. Levine said, “I always agonize about which shows I want to include in any given season, and I believe that next season will be a great one! Our 2024/2025 season will include the four-time Tony Award-winning Jersey Boys, followed by the classic Fiddler on The Roof, followed by the world premiere of a new work entitled Few Words: A Dance Cycle, and concluding with the Broadway smash hit musical Waitress.” Producing Director Erin Craig said, “Many of our patrons have often asked us when we will be including Jersey Boys in our seasons, and so we are thrilled to be opening our seventh year with this audience favorite! Our second show, Fiddler On The Roof, will be a special and timely production, and we are thrilled that our very own Daniel C. Levine will be directing this one. As A.C.T. of CT’s audiences have come to expect, Daniel’s productions are always innovative, reimagined, and impeccably designed. Just like his production of Jesus Christ Superstar, The Secret Garden and Sunset Boulevard, Daniel plans to tell this well-known story in a new way
that promises to be poignant, impactful and unique. Katie Diamond, A.C.T.’s Board President, added, “New works are an essential part of our mission here at A.C.T. of CT, and so we are very excited to be premiering Few Words: A Dance Cycle. For those patrons who love choreography and dance, this will be an exquisite and elegant world premier creation based in dance. And being able to include one of my all-time favorite musicals, Waitress, in our season is the icing on the cake - pun intended.”
Reflecting on the theater’s past six seasons, A.C.T. of CT’s gala chairwomen Rebecca Baglio and Kristin Beylouni said, “We are both so honored to be a part of this special and magical theater and continue to be inspired by all that has been accomplished these past six seasons. I think we can all agree that A.C.T. of CT has become a staple in our community and continues to elevate the level of entertainment in our area. The theater has gained national recognition, including a Grammy nomination for Best Cast Album, and we are truly grateful to all our supporters, donors, and patrons for their continued generosity and support. The overwhelming advocacy this community has shown over these past years has been an integral part of what has made A.C.T. so successful and, consequently, has made Ridgefield, Connecticut, a true arts destination.” Daniel C. Levine added, “We consider ourselves lucky to live and work in a community where the arts are vital to a thriving society. The success of A.C. T. of CT is directly related to the support and appreciation shown to us by the residents of Fairfield County, Connecticut. We know that our theater is making a positive impact in our community, and with the help of our donors, sponsors, patrons, and audiences, we will continue to do so!”
A.C.T. of CT
36 Old Quarry Road, Ridgefield, CT 06877
Box Office: 475-215-5497 actofct.org @actofct
JULY 2ND
Ridgefield Running Companycheck for locations | 6:00 PM
Enjoy a fun off-road run Tuesday evenings at 6PM. A different location every week so check social stories and Strava the day before for the location. All levels are welcome; Please bring a cell phone and bug spray. Runs will be about 60-90 minutes. Dress for possible mud on the trails. ridgefieldrunning.com
JULY 2ND - AUGUST 29TH
Ballard Park | Tuesdays and Thursdays 7:00 PM
CHIRP is a free summer concert series and brings townspeople together in a relaxed atmosphere comfortable for people of every economic strata, age bracket and ethnicity. Its mission is to afford them the opportunity to hear and hopefully to enjoy a variety of world and alternative music only infrequently performed in this area. Visit chirpct.org for performance schedule.
JULY 3RD
Nod Hill Brewery | 6:30 PM
A fun night with friends! Join host Bobby Csugie. Free to play! Prizes For 1st, 2nd & 3rd Place. Signup starts at 6:30pm, gameplay at 7pm. nodhillbrewery.com for more details.
Offering courses in:
Parent and Child Classes
Age 1-3
Pre-Ballet Classes
Age 3 and up Ballet
Contemporary
To register, or for more informationon current classes as well as our Summer Program, call 203.438.5597 or visit ridgefielddance.org. Modern Musical Theater Pointe Jazz Tap Hip Hop
Ridgefield Conservatory of Dance, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization located at 440 Main Street, Ridgefield, Connecticut
Are you looking for help booking your next trip? We can help with that!
Trevor & Dana Cox
Danbury, CT | 475-215-0092
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JULY 4TH
July 4th Celebration
Keeler Tavern Museum | Throughout the Day
Friends and family can celebrate community and independence! For updated details go to keelertavernmuseum.org for more information.
JULY 5TH - AUGUST 23RD
Adventure Movie Matinee Ridgefield Library | Fridays 2:00 PM
Enjoy an adventure movie each Friday afternoon at 2:00 pm in the Leir Children’s Program Room. Movies are either rated G or PG and will run between 90 and 120 minutes. For more information visit ridgefieldlibrary.com
JULY 6TH
Creative Community Day
The Meetinghouse | 10:00 AM
Join us in the studio to create together in an inclusive atmosphere of art making. Enjoy a relaxed, fun opportunity to create with others on their artistic journey. Hosted by Holli Levy Open to adults 18+. No charge and no experience necessary. meetinghouse.life
JULY 7TH
Nature Center Open House
Woodcock Nature Center | 9:00 AM
All are welcome to swing by for a visit. Check out the indoor animal enclosures and say hello to your favorite Woodcock ambassador animal. Also enjoy the grounds, trails and playground from dawn to dusk daily free of charge. For more information visit woodcocknaturecenter.org.
JULY 13TH
Ridgefield Farmers Market
Jesse Lee Church | 10:00 AM
This vibrant market features local farms and artisan food producers Come do your shopping or just grab some lunch. Find organic farm fresh produce, baked goods, and specialty items alongside family activities and live music. ridgefieldfarmersmarket.org
JULY 14TH
Music at the Mansion
Lounsbury House | 5:00 PM
Enjoy chamber music of the highest artistic quality accessibly, while sharing the history and beauty of one of Ridgefield’s most treasured landmarks. Wine and Cheese at 5PM Concert starts at 5:45PM. ridgefieldsymphony.org
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JULY 19TH
Back to the Eighties Show with Jessie’s Girl
Ridgefield Playhouse | 8:00 PM
There is no decade like the 80s and no band that has mastered the music of the time period like Jessie’s Girl! Hear all of your favorite 80s hits by Prince, Madonna, Eddie Money, Duran Duran, Whitney Houston, Cyndi Lauper, Pat Benatar, Van Halen, and many more! For more information and tickets go to ridgefieldplayhouse.org.
JULY 22ND
Harry Met Sally
The Ridgefield. Playhouse | 2:00 PM
This timeless rom-com embodies the evolution of friendship, young passion and romance for the young at heart. Billy Crystal and Meg Ryan star as Harry and Sally. Visit ridgefieldplayhouse.org for more information.
JULY 27TH Summerfest
Main Street | 10:00 AM
Enjoy Craft Vendors, Sidewalk Sales, Touch-A-Truck, Food, Live Entertainment and more! For more information visit ridgefieldchamber.org