“La Gentilhommière” | Stamford, CT | $7,995,000 Listed by
Letter from the Editor
SUMMERTIME!
I love summer. I love hiking. And, thanks to PJ Kennedy, we bring you some of the best hiking locations in Stamford. Now, I'm born and raised here and I've never heard of Newman Mills Park. So, thanks, PJ. It's on my list to hike there this month.
And, thanks to Jacqui Justice, I know what snacks to bring along.
One of the best things about living in Stamford is the central location to so many great getaways. North to the Cape, South to the Shore. Easy drive to the Berkshires, Catskills and Pocono Mountains.
One great adventure option is A Tiny House Getaway located in Moodus, CT - close to Haddam and Chester. (They also have locations in Hudson Valley and the Catskills.) These charming accommodations are like sleeping in the woods! If you're looking for a break from the urban landscape and also want access to shopping, dining and activities, this is BIG fun.
Another option that features adventure + luxury, The Lodge at Woodloch. I have a personal relationship with the Woodloch properties and I have to say that their hospitality is second to none. They treat their employees as well as they treat their guests. It is exceptional in every way. Make sure to mention Stamford City Lifestyle when booking your reservation for a complimentary welcome gift. And did I mention the amazing spa treatments? Like butter... that's how they make me feel, melted butter.
It's July - Happy Birthday America! The Three-Gun Armada is a story that caught my attention. In addition to hiking, summer and spas, I also love history. Imagining the bold improvisation of Ebenezer Jones in his effort to capture British ships takes my breath away. Respect. It is worthy of a Spielberg movie. Special thanks to CT History for permission to reprint.
Our spotlight this month is Anna Halynski and her fav travel spots and tips. Please support our advertisers so we can keep bringing you what's new, what's exciting and what's cool in and around Stamford. Wear your sunscreen and be kind to each other.
July 2024
PUBLISHER
Marty Shapiro | Marty.Shapiro@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Laurie A. Guzda | laurie.guzda@citylifestyle.com
AREA COORDINATOR
PJ Kennedy
SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR
Eva Glassman
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
PJ Kennedy, CT History, Jacqui Justice, Sarah Bamford
Corporate Team
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Mary Albers
LAYOUT DESIGNER Kathy Nguyen
LAURIE A. GUZDA, EDITOR
CULINARY• EVENTS • LIFESTYLE
inside the issue
Top Hiking Spots
Serene
The
The
Kayaks line the walkway over the cranberry bog to the dock on Little Lake Teedyuskung (Leni Lenapi for Healing Waters) at The Lodge at Woodloch.
Laurie A. Guzda
city scene
1: The Mill River Collective Annual Fundraising Dinner. 2: Mitch Kidd, David Kooris and friends. 3: Mill River Gala. 5: State of the City event. 6: The Cingari boys at the State of the City event. 7: Stamford Museum’s Melissa Mulrooney and Mill River’s Nettie Compton at the gala.
PJ KENNEDY
PJ KENNEDY
business monthly
ROUNDUP OF NEWS FROM LOCAL BUSINESSES
CO CREATE
CoCreate is a place to make, connect and be inspired. In addition to experiencing beautifully designed kitchens and seeing the GE Appliances portfolio (Monogram, Café, Profile, GE Appliances, Haier, Hotpoint), prepare to be inspired and get hands-on training in this dedicated makerspace with a wide range of tools and equipment, a fully functional demo kitchen, a design resource center, a dedicated coworking space and see behind the scenes of a fully functioning manufacturing facility. www.stamfordcocreate.com
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ROTARY CLUB OF STAMFORD
The Rotary Club of Stamford, a 102-year-old community pillar, significantly contributes to local education with university scholarships and dictionary project, providing dictionaries to all 3rd graders in Stamford's schools. They also fund an annual coat project, providing coats for children in need. Recently, the Stamford Rotary Trust Fund donated $1 million to the Rotary Commons Plaza affordable housing project, led by Pacific House, furthering its mission to enhance community welfare in Stamford. Visit www.stamfordrotary.org
ORCHESTRA LUMOS
Strong and enduring cultural institutions differentiate a great city from a good one. As the leading musical arts institution in Fairfield County, Orchestra Lumos (formerly Stamford Symphony Orchestra) provides transformative musical experiences by the finest musicians in the tri-state region. Musical events and concerts range from full orchestra shows at The Palace to quartets in more intimate settings throughout Stamford. To subscribe and become a member, visit www.orchestralumos.org.
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COLUMBUS PARK, appetizers, homemade pastas, fresh fish and great wine list. A fun and fashionable location where the food and sevice are exceptional.
COLUMBUS PARK, centrally located in downtown Stamford, boasts of its extraordinary appetizers, homemade pastas, fresh fish and great wine list. A fun and fashionable location where the food and sevice are exceptional.
COLUMBUS PARK'S small-to-medium sized private parties such as corporate affairs, rehearsal dinners and family events. Columbus Park Trattoria will help to make your party unforgettable at a cost which is surprisingly affordable.
COLUMBUS PARK'S private dining room can accommodate 64 people. Specializing in small-to-medium sized private parties such as corporate affairs, rehearsal dinners and family events. Columbus Park Trattoria will help to make your party unforgettable at a cost which is surprisingly affordable.
TOP
HIKING SPOTS
Serene forest to vibrant urban trails for outdoor enthusiasts.
ARTICLE BY PJ KENNEDY @HEYSTAMFORD | PHOTOGRAPHY BY PJ KENNEDY
363 WEED AVENUE
Situated along the Long Island Sound, Cove Island Park offers visitors a perfect blend of natural beauty and recreational opportunities. With its sandy beaches, lush green spaces, and stunning waterfront views, Cove Island Park is a beloved destination for adventure. Explore scenic walking trails that wind through marshlands and meadows, providing glimpses of native wildlife and birdwatching opportunities. Beach Stickers are required between May and September.
Nestled in the heart of Stamford, Connecticut, the Bartlett Arboretum & Gardens is a serene oasis of natural beauty and tranquility. Spanning over 90 acres, this lush botanical haven offers visitors a captivating journey through diverse landscapes, including woodlands, meadows, and meticulously curated gardens. Bartlett Arboretum & Gardens is perfect for those seeking inspiration, relaxation, or a deeper connection with nature.
This historic site in North Stamford offers visitors a captivating journey through time and nature. Originally constructed in 1781 during the Revolutionary War era, Fort Stamford and the Goodbody Gardens beckon you to explore their timeless charm and discover the stories they hold, pause to admire the intricate sculptures and tranquil water features that dot the landscape.
1. COVE ISLAND PARK
2. BARTLETT ARBORETUM & GARDENS 151 BROOKDALE
3. FORT STAMFORD 900 WESTOVER ROAD
Bartlett Arboretum & Gardens
Fort Stamford
Cove Island Park
4.KOSCIUSZKO PARK 200 ELMCROFT ROAD
Named in honor of Polish military leader Tadeusz Kościuszko, this sprawling green space spans over 15 acres and features a wide range of amenities, including sports fields for soccer, baseball, and basketball. Tranquil walking & jogging paths meander through manicured lawns and lush foliage, inviting visitors to take a leisurely stroll or jog amidst the natural beauty of the park and Long Island Sound. Benches are scattered throughout, offering spots to rest and soak in the serene ambiance.
5. NEWMAN MILLS PARK 310 RIVERBANK ROAD
Newman Mills Park, also known as Riverbank Park, or the ‘Falls’ is a 7.6 acre property in North Stamford, that offers a charming retreat from the urban landscape of Stamford. Originally the site of a grist mill owned by Nathaniel Newman in 1726 until it burned down in 1969, the park has since become a destination for great views and short hikes around the property. Beach permits are required through September.
6. MIANUS PARK LOCATED AT THE END OF MERRIBROOK LANE
Nature at its best. Mianus River Park, a 400acre urban forest located between Greenwich and Stamford, is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts seeking solitude and adventure. Its dramatic landscape includes the Mianus River and its tributary streams, wetlands, hiking trails, rock formations and more.
For more on what to do in Stamford, CT visit HeyStamford.com
Newman Mills Park
Mianus Park
Kosciuszko Park
Stamford’s Three-Gun Armada
BRAZEN COURAGE OF THE REVOLUTIONARY WAR
ARTICLE REPRINTED WITH PERMISSION FROM CONNECTICUTHISTORY.ORG (JUNE 2021)
During the Revolutionary War, American privateers utilized armed whaling boats to keep the British from the colonies’ shores and prevent illicit trade in British goods. In 1778, 1779, and 1780, the Connecticut General Assembly passed numerous acts forbidding trade with the British, but these acts proved difficult to enforce. The limited resources of the Continental navy opened the door for seagoing privateers along the Connecticut coast to enforce trade restrictions, seize supplies intended for the British war effort, and offer protection from enemy attack.
British Armed Sloop
In Stamford, privateer whaling boats fell under the command of Ebenezer Jones. Jones received a commission for three boats which he owned and commanded. These boats were the Rattlesnake, Viper, and Saratoga. Each carried one gun and approximately 10 crewmen, and Jones employed them in the defense of Stamford harbor.
PRIVATEERS CAPTURE BRITISH SHIPS
Jones’s small fleet met with great success during their deployments, capturing or securing the cargo of such British sloops as the Tryon, Dorset, and Polly. (Sloops are smaller, single-masted vessels.) In addition, he took the schooner Anson and other British schooners loaded with wood, hay, and other valuable supplies. (Schooners usually have fore-and-aft sails on two or more masts.)
Jones’s most famous exploit involved the capture of an unnamed British warship.
Sneaking up on the vessel in a dense fog, Jones pretended to be an irate British inspector. From his whaleboat, Jones harangued the British captain for letting Jones’s boat approach unchallenged. Maintaining a disciplinary and belligerent tone, Jones managed to bluff his way onto the British ship. Once aboard, Jones signaled his other whaling boats to emerge from the fog, surround the ship, and bring it back to Stamford.
While many boat operators had their commissions revoked in 1781 for secretly engaging in trade with the British vessels they encountered, it does not appear that Jones engaged in this behavior. If he did, he was never caught, as his sanctioned privateering lasted through the end of the war. From the commissioning of his small fleet in 1780 until its decommission in 1783, Jones captured or seized the property of at least 35 British vessels.
Ebenezer Jones
Personal Spotlight
Anna Halynski
NAME : Anna Halynski
AGE : 37
OCCUPATION : Real Estate Salesperson
WHAT IS YOUR IDEA OF ADVENTURE?
My idea of adventure is a peaceful retreat. I like very quiet islands with small bungalows right on the water. The Maldives have amazing overwater bungalows. Gili Lankanfushi on Lankanfushi Island is an exceptional hotel. Located on one of the most beautiful lagoons in the country - the epitome of Maldivian barefoot luxury.
WHERE HAVE YOU TRAVELED?
Europe, North Africa, Dubai, and the Caribbean Islands. I had an educational trip to France (Vichy) where a local family hosted my stay and I learned the language and culture. Austria is amazing from a historical and architectural perspective. Algeria is an absolutely unique country – it has Mediterranean sea and virgin beaches. I recommend visiting the Sahara desert and cities like Oran, Tipaza, Annaba. My next trip will be in Italy, the historical side and islands.
WHAT LOCAL AREAS DO YOU RECOMMEND FOR A SHORT TRAVEL OR ADVENTURE EXPERIENCE?
I love Newport, RI and going out East to the Hamptons for a short local trip. My first recommendation would be Marram in Montauk. Gurney's has a beautiful waterfront restaurant on Scarpetta Beach. I love to stay at 41 North in Newport. Newport has fantastic tours in town and also by boat. I highly recommend the Cliff Walk, it's an unforgettable experience.
AND, WHAT IS THE IDEAL DAY TRIP TO STAMFORD?
Lorca coffee shop downtown would be a great breakfast choice. After that, go to Cove Beach for a picturesque walk or bike ride. Prime restaurant will be a great place to have lunch because it has a beautiful waterfront view and across the water take a class at Pinot's Palette and create a memorable artwork in Harbor Point. Finish your journey downtown at the Capital Grille for dinner.
ARTICLE BY SARAH BAMFORD
ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY LAURIE A. GUZDA
Getaway Tiny House
THE HOUSE MAY BE TINY, BUT THE EXPERIENCE IS BIG TIME FUN!
Looking for something different for your next adventure? Consider a Tiny House Getaway!
In less than 2 hours from Stamford, in Moodus, CT, your Tiny House is calling. It’s like camping but with all of the comforts of home. The best part of this cozy retreat is the huge window that brings the outside in, it feels like you are sleeping in the forest. Each Tiny House is named for a parent, grandparent or friend of the Getaway team. We stayed in “Steve” but would also consider “Hilaria” or “Erv.”
The charming attention to detail is delightful –s’more making kits, a box to store devices to disconnect, a personalized welcome note along with area highlights and games for the kids. The ride itself is beautiful but the area is overflowing with nature and things to do.
There are several state parks and natural areas within a 10-15 minute drive offering outstanding hikes. Machimoodus State Park is 300 acres of uplands, meadows, and river and cove waterfronts with scenic vistas overlooking the Salmon River. It is one of Connecticut’s top bird-viewing sites. The Sunrise State Park sits just north of Machimoodus. It encompasses 143 acres on the east shore of the Salmon River. Brainard, Devil’s Hopyard State Parks and Burnham Brook Preserve are other great hiking options that offer springs, meadows and rocky outcrops to explore. There is also a nature trail on site – look for little woodland surprises.
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Your Tiny House is located very near the historic, Goodspeed Opera House in East Haddam, CT. They offer some of the finest theater performances off-Broadway. Also nearby is the Gillette Castle which is a must-see while you are in the area. Its storybook design is reminiscent of Antoni Gaudi. Built by the eccentric actor William Gillette in the late 1800s, famous for his role as Sherlock Holmes, one can only imagine the wild parties that took place at this extraordinary location. Great hiking is also available on the property.
Nearby Chester, CT is one the most charming and friendly towns you’ll ever visit. Every shop is more like an artist gallery; The Wayfinder Society, Dina Varano Gallery and – my favorite, Arch One Glass. (Make sure to tell Rob you found him in SCL –beautiful glass pieces, I LOVE my bottle top oil burner).
There are several great dining choices. I recommend The Village Bistro. Although, Otto’s, the pizza place up the road, had a line waiting to eat! You can visit the Chester Gallery across the street while waiting. The town offers a Squirrel Chasing Walking Tour. It is very dog-friendly.
A Tiny House Getaway is a great option for your next adventure. They have locations throughout the country with most in the eastern half. Easy drives from Stamford in addition to Moodus are the Catskills and the Hudson Valley. What are you waiting for? The house may be tiny, but the experience is BIG time fun! Getaway.house
The Village Bistro
Goodspeed Opera House
Gillette Castle
HEALTHY SNACKS FOR Summer ADVENTURE
When you’re out and about on a summer adventure, having nutritious and portable snacks is key. Here are my top 5 healthy snack ideas that are satisfying, energizing and easy to carry:
Ants On A Log 2.0: This old-school favorite checks all the boxes: protein-rich, healthy fats, fiber, antioxidants and hydrating. Celery + Nut Butter + Hemp Hearts + Raisins. Make ahead and store in fridge in a grab’n go travel container.
Happy Trails Mix: My best anti-hangry tool. Make your own with nuts + seeds + dried fruit or purchase premade in individual serving-sized packages. My fav: Trader Joe’s Omega Trek Mix.
Protein-rich Energy Bars: A must-have! Opt for bars with minimal ingredients that are made with whole foods and low in sugar. My favs: RXBAR & Aloha Bars.
Jerky: The original long-lasting travel snack is made for adventure. My favs: Think Jerky & Trader Joe’s Chomp Sticks.
Hydrating Fruits & Veggies: Quench your thirst and hunger with ultra-portable fruits and veggies: mini cucs, grape tomatoes, baby carrots, celery sticks, apples, pears, bananas, clementines and grapes. Keep them accessible in a ziplock bag and you can enjoy them throughout your adventure.
ARTICLE BY JACQUI JUSTICE, FUNCTIONAL NURTIONIST @JACQUIJUSTICE
5 Healthy Snacks that Satisfy and Energize.
ARTICLE BY LAURIE A. GUZDA
SPA ADVENTURE
The Lodge at Woodloch ignites all of your senses.
Looking for adventure? Or, self-reflection, meditation and yoga? Perhaps you are longing for an incredible spa treatment along with amazing meals and some exquisite wine? Hmmmm, where to go, what to do, how to choose? Why choose when you can have it all at The Lodge at Woodloch.
The Lodge at Woodloch (TLAW) is an award-winning globally recognized destination spa nestled in picturesque northeast Pennsylvania – about a 2-hour drive from Stamford. It is where luxury, adventure and soulful evolution meet.
TLAW provides sumptuous locally resourced, farm-to-table meals. In fact, I recommend the add-on farm dining experience. You’ll enjoy your intimate meal with the Chef surrounded by the lush gardens. TLAW boasts a carefully curated selection of wines designed to suit a variety of discerning tastes.
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In addition to yoga, exercise and meditation classes, you’ll find painting and journaling workshops. Guest speakers are scheduled throughout the year. On-site activities include kayaking, archery and a labyrinth. Off-site excursions may include river rafting, biking, rappelling and eagle viewing.
TLAW blends rustic charm with modern elegance. The attentive staff will cater to your every need with the signature Woodloch hospitality. The cozy and well-appointed rooms provide a peaceful sanctuary to unwind and recharge. The wide range of luxurious treatments and therapies are designed
to rejuvenate and invigorate with a comprehensive menu of options.
From the moment you arrive, you are greeted with warmth and a sense of tranquility. This transformative experience allows you to escape the stresses of everyday life and reconnect with yourself. Whether you are seeking relaxation, adventure, or self-discovery, this opulent retreat offers everything you need to make your stay unforgettable. Visit www.thelodgeatwoodloch.com for a full list of events, activities and spa treatments. Mention Stamford City Lifestyle when making your reservation for a complimentary welcome gift.
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
JUNE 30TH
City of Stamford 4th of July Fireworks
Cummings Beach | 9:00 PM
Independence Day Fireworks event, which will be held on Friday, June 30th (rain date July 1). Thousands of Stamford and area residents are expected to attend. The event will feature entertainment for residents throughout the evening, with the fireworks show.
JULY 1ST
ArtNORMOUS
Stamford Downtown | 12:00 PM
ArtNORMOUS in Stamford Downtown presented by Reckson & Cappelli Organization in partnership with George Comfort & Sons features seven larger-than-life bronze works of art from 4 renowned artists including: Joy Brown: One Leaning on Another, Two Together; Jim Rennert: Inner Dialogue, Timing, Walking the Tightrope; Bjørn Okholm Skaarup: Hippo Ballerina and Martha Pettigrew: Gossip.
JULY 13TH
Danny Go
Palace Theatre | 12:00 PM
“Danny Go!” is a live-action educational children’s show filled with music, movement and silliness. Created in 2019 by 3 childhood friends in Charlotte, North Carolina, the show inspires learning and off-the-couch exercise for kids ages 3 to 7.
Though a hip medium in the world of commercial art today, airbrush is actually a 19th century invention. Comprised of 40 works wide-ranging in theme and style, this exhibition showcases the creations of noteworthy artists who have chosen airbrush as their primary medium of expression.
Featured masters Don Eddy, Jerry Ott and George Green (1943—2020) were part of the earliest known exhibition of airbrushed art, 40 years ago in San Jose, California. Bruce Evans, Alan Pastrana, Cesar Santander, Hisaya Taira, and Dru Blair are regarded among the very best to have ever worked in the medium. Blair is widely known as much for his art as he is for his mentorship — this exhibition also includes the work of several of his most notable protégés, who are now well established artists in their own right.
EXHIBITION NOW ON VIEW THROUGH September 2, 2024
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JULY 18TH
Summer Social
Ponus Yacht Club | 5:00 PM
Stamford Chamber of Commerce Summer Social event. 21+ only, please. $45 for members, Future Members $55. www.StamfordChamber.com
JULY 20TH
The 9th Annual Stamford Arts Festival at Harbor Point
Harbor Point | 10:00 AM
The 9th Annual Stamford Arts Festival at Harbor Point returns on Saturday and Sunday, July 20th and 21st from 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. This juried Art and Fine Crafts Festival, produced by Gordon Fine Arts, features one-ofa-kind works from over 125 local, national and international artists, food trucks, music and children’s art activities. @HarborPointStamford event schedule information.
JULY 25TH
Sublime with Rome
Mill River Park | 6:00 PM
Stamford Downtown presents Alive At Five in partnership with Reckson, in Mill River Park. Gates open at 5pm with DJs, Opening Acts, Food Trucks and a Large Variety of Beer, Wine and Cocktails for purchase. Over 21 only please. Get your discounted early bird tickets now while supplies last! For more information, visit Stamford Downtown Alive At Five.
Pictured: Alan Pastrana, David Bowie (2020), Cesar Santander, SoupCanGirlTwo (2020), Bruce Evans, Studio IV (2016) Traveling Exhibition produced by David J. Wagner, LLC | David J. Wagner, PhD, Curator/Tour Director
