CULINARY• EVENTS • LIFESTYLE
Letter from the Editor
July's theme is EXPLORE!
I was thrilled to discover there's a word for one of my favorite lifelong activities: Flânerie. Thanks to my friend Tim Fielding, who introduced our book club to "Flâneuse," a book about women wanderers. It's no surprise that the French would have a term for this mindful exploring that nurtures personal and creative development.
You don't need much to enjoy yourself anywhere, anytime—just a willingness to explore with curiosity. This issue's article focuses on the area around the Old Town Hall, but you can practice flânerie anywhere. Consider adding a theme to your wanderings—history, photography, architecture, street art... Perhaps we can organize a group flânerie in the fall?
We also explore AutoCamp, luxury glamping just a 3.5-hour drive to beautiful Cape Cod.
The Maritime Aquarium in Norwalk proudly announces its exploration vessel, the Sound Explorer. The Maritime Aquarium truly functions as a museum without walls. Make sure it's on your summer "must-visit" list.
Have you heard about Tranquillity Vineyard in Middlebury, CT? If not, we're excited to introduce you to this perfect day trip destination. We'd love if you could share your experiences on Instagram and tag @stamfordcitylifestylemagazine!
I'm also excited that 2026 marks the 50th reunion for the Class of '76. In conversations with Tom Elles, graduates are working to organize a city-wide reunion. Why? Because many of us shared experiences through scouts, sports, and grammar school—not necessarily high school. I stumbled upon the Class of '73's combined reunion at Water's Edge, and it was fantastic! Tom has connected with alumni from Rippowam and Catholic High, but Westhill graduates remain elusive. Come on, pool people! Let's celebrate the city, people, and moments that shaped us. Contact: Reunion76Stamford@gmail.com
Summer is the perfect time to explore. As Ralph Waldo Emerson wrote: "Live in the sunshine. Swim in the sea. Drink in the wild air."
Happy Summer!
July 2025
PUBLISHER
Marty Shapiro | Marty.Shapiro@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Laurie A. Guzda | laurie.guzda@citylifestyle.com
SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR
Eva Glassman
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Marty Shapiro, Laurie A. Guzda, Jacqui Justice, Dan Pachter, Paul Vigario, Regan Robertson
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Read McKendree, LA Guzda, Tara Grandmaison
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders
AD DESIGNER Rachel Kolich
LAYOUT DESIGNER Kirstan Lanier
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Brandy Thomas
LAURIE A. GUZDA, EDITORIAL COORDINATOR
3:5-6
city scene
1: Stamford Downtown team visit artists creating sculptures for “OINK!” 2: René Soto paints Golden Pig. 3: David Macharelli, Porkcelain Vase. 4: Amrita
Majumder painting Just Like an Indian Elephant. 5: Douglas L. York, PhD, Melissa H. Mulrooney, Mary Fedeli, Chef David Standridge, & Kathleen Standridge. 6: Tina Bartels with Nina Sherwood, SM&NC Staff and Ferdinand the Goat 7: Stamford Museum & Nature Center’s Annual Benefit Dinner - Chef David Standridge, Event Honoree.
The Water’s Edge Comedy Night. 13-14: Ferguson Library’s Gala, A Novel Affair
8: Dana Weinberg; Carol Brewer; Suzanne Fruithandler. 9: John Bartels and Tina Bartels with Darunee Gambino and Todd Gambino, SM&NC Board Member. 10: Chef David Standridge, Event Honoree, with SM&NC Member and Longtime Volunteer, Donna Kunz. 11: Leslie Burni; Ellen Komar; Sarah Bull, SM&NC Board Member; Gayle Alswanger 12: Motts Pelazza and SCL Publisher Marty Shapiro enjoying
CARA GILBRIDE, CALALILY STUDIOS
CARA GILBRIDE, CALALILY STUDIOS
CARA GILBRIDE, CALALILY STUDIOS
CARA GILBRIDE, CALALILY STUDIOS
EXPLORE AUTOCAMP
SEVERAL LOCATIONS NATIONALLY, CAPE COD IS AN EASY ESCAPE
ARTICLE BY MARTY SHAPIRO | PHOTOGRAPHY BY READ MCKENDREE
Are you dreaming of a summer getaway that blends New England charm with elevated outdoor living? Just a 3.5-hour drive from Stamford, AutoCamp Cape Cod is the perfect long weekend destination, where modern Airstream suites, beachside breezes, and coastal adventures await.
I recently had the pleasure of spending a weekend at AutoCamp Cape Cod, and it delivers! Set on 14 acres in Falmouth and steps from the beach, AutoCamp Cape Cod offers a laidback luxury experience with design-forward accommodations and nature-inspired programming. The property features 108 thoughtfully appointed suites, including custom-designed Airstreams, cozy cabins, and canvas tents. At the heart of the property, the Clubhouse is your go-to for everything from locally sourced meals to socializing around the indoor fire pit. You’ll also find the General Store stocked with AutoCamp’s Signature Grill Kits, S’mores Kits, and grab-and-go items.
One of the biggest draws is the complimentary cruiser bike rentals, provided in partnership with Rideaway Adventures. Start your ride at mile 6 of the 10.7-mile Shining Sea Bikeway, a scenic rail trail that winds past salt marshes, sandy beaches, and harbor views from North Falmouth to the postcard-perfect village of Woods Hole. Summer programming includes oyster shucking workshops led by local guides, complimentary yoga, and live music from local musicians.
Guests can also enjoy an all-season pool, outdoor movie nights, storytelling around the fire, arts and crafts, and culinary tastings from local purveyors. For adults, there are wine
AutoCamp is an amazing adventure!
and brewery tours, plated dinners, and immersive workshops, while kid-friendly programming ensures the whole crew is entertained.
Whether you’re planning a romantic weekend, friends’ trip, or family getaway, AutoCamp is an amazing adventure. Other AutoCamp locations include Catskills, Russian River, Yosemite, Joshua Tree, Zion, and Sequoia, with additional properties coming soon in Asheville and Hill Country.
For more information, visit autocamp.com
THE MARITIME AQUARIUM at Norwalk
An Aquarium Without Walls
ARTICLE BY EMILY BERGANTINO
Captain Nicki Rosenfeld.
When The Maritime Aquarium at Norwalk says it wants to be “An Aquarium Without Walls” – it means it literally. This summer, the Aquarium will once again invite visitors to take to the seas on its new research vessel, Sound Explorer, to discover Long Island Sound alongside educators and scientists and learn more about the vibrant ecosystem on the Connecticut Coast.
A HISTORY OF EDUCATION ON THE WATER
Education and nature-based programming are at the heart of the Aquarium’s current and historical vessel operations. The R/V Sound Explorer is the latest addition to the Aquarium’s fleet, but shipboard programming has been a key part of the organization’s mission since the facility opened its doors in 1988. The R/V Oceanic served 27 years as The Maritime Aquarium’s “floating classroom” before being replaced in 2014 by the R/V Spirit of the Sound, the country’s first hybrid-electric research vessel used for public education. (R/V Spirit of the Sound is currently undergoing repairs and is due to rejoin the fleet in 2027.) The Maritime Aquarium has long utilized its vessels to immerse students, teachers, and the public in the natural wonders of Long Island Sound, offering a wide array of interactive learning opportunities for people of all ages.
Over the past 20 years, more than 85,000 visitors have explored Long Island Sound – and examined the wildlife in, on, and above the water – aboard one of the Aquarium’s vessels.
A SCIENCE LOVER AND SEA CAPTAIN
At the helm of this exciting new opportunity is boat captain and educator Nicki Rosenfeld. With a deep love of the outdoors and a lifelong passion for science and nature, Rosenfeld brings not only technical expertise but also an educator’s heart to her role. After more than a decade at The Maritime Aquarium, she credits her continuous love of nature and maritime bona fides to her mentors.
“Growing up, I always wanted to be outdoors,” Rosenfeld says. “I love getting people excited about science, so it was a natural fit to become an educator. After several years of working on the boats at The Maritime Aquarium, I committed to obtaining my captain’s license and expanding my skills to be able to lead shipboard programming in a new way.”
But becoming the captain of a research vessel is not easy. It requires a cumulative 365 days at sea or on the water, plus physicals, tests and credentials.
“My mentors at the Aquarium were incredibly encouraging. They nurtured my growth in both the marine education and maritime operation areas and supported this evolution in my career. Now I’m able to bring the Aquarium’s marine life programming to our new vessel for the next generation of learners, and to reach back to support the growth of our crew in their own careers like others did for me.”
“Education and nature-based programming have always been part of our mission to inspire a connection to Long Island Sound and the ocean. Our goal onboard is to share with people the beauty and amazing diversity of life that exists right off our shores, from within a single drop of water to the expansive bottom of the Sound so they too may strengthen their connection to our blue planet.”
The Fowler Family, including The Maritime Aquarium’s Board Chair, Clay Fowler, generously supported the expansion of the Aquarium’s fleet to include the R/V Sound Explorer.
“Education and nature-based programming have always been part of our mission to inspire a connection to Long Island Sound and the ocean. Our goal is to help people understand the ecosystem they live near, how it functions, and why it matters.”
“I love getting people excited about science.”
COME FOR A CRUISE ON LONG ISLAND SOUND
The water just off the shore of Norwalk is ideal for exploration. More than 20 islands dot the shoreline, providing habitats for a wide variety of wildlife in every season. The Norwalk Islands are on the Atlantic Flyway for migrating birds and the well-protected harbor has long supported a maritime culture that continues to this day.
The Maritime Aquarium at Norwalk’s shipboard programming offers a variety of tours and experiences for every visitor. The popular “Marine Life Encounter Cruise” invites passengers to study marine biodiversity with a plankton tow that brings up fish, crabs, mollusks and more to get a hands-on understanding of marine life in the Sound. This two-and-a-half-hour journey may also feature water quality sampling, surveying the shoreline for coastal resilience, wildlife watching, weather observations, and biodiversity sampling to view the animals that live underwater.
If you’re looking for a more relaxing tour, the Saturday evening “Sunset Cruise” explores the beauty of the Norwalk Islands as Aquarium educators point out various sights and wildlife. The Aquarium also offers special tours like the National Lighthouse Day Cruise and a Fireworks Cruise during July 4th celebrations. More details and schedules are available on the website; passengers for cruises must be 42 inches tall and if under 18, accompanied by an adult.
The Maritime Aquarium is located just off I-95, exit 14. Book your adventure today! Find out more about The Maritime Aquarium at Norwalk, including opening hours and cruise times, at maritimeaquarium.org
HEIRLOOM TOMATO & PEACH SALAD
ARTICLE BY JACQUI JUSTICE, FUNCTIONAL NUTRITIONIST @JACQUIJUSTICE
WITH BASIL-LIME VINAIGRETTE
Serves 2-4
Celebrate summer’s peak with a colorful, nutrient-rich food adventure. From heirloom tomatoes to juicy peaches, Summer’s harvest is bursting with flavor. Explore local markets, try something new, and savor the season with this refreshing salad that highlights the best of what’s fresh, local, and delicious.
Ingredients:
• 2 heirloom tomatoes, sliced
• 2 peaches, sliced
• 1 small cucumber, thinly sliced
• 1/4 small red onion, very thinly sliced
• Handful of fresh basil leaves
• Optional: crumbled goat or feta cheese, chopped pistachios
Basil-Lime Vinaigrette:
• Juice of 1 lime
• 1 Tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 2 Tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 tsp honey
• Sea salt & pepper to taste
• 1 Tbsp finely chopped fresh basil
Method:
Gently layer the tomatoes, peaches, cucumber, and onion on a platter. Whisk all vinaigrette ingredients together until emulsified. Drizzle over salad before serving. Top with basil, cheese and/or pistachio nuts for extra flavor and texture.
Let the flavors of summer inspire curiosity, creativity, and connection, one delicious bite at a time.
SIPPING ON SUNSHINE
ARTICLE BY REGAN ROBERTSON | PHOTOGRAPHY BY TARA GRANDMAISON
On an unusually warm afternoon in May, two men quietly look out across the shimmering Lake Quassapaug in Middlebury, Connecticut. A gentle breeze blows, carrying the scent of lilacs, and a golden glow evokes an invitation to pause and reflect. Dr. Dean Yimoyines and his son Dean John, the owners of Tranquillity Vineyard & Winery, are the stewards of 45 pristine acres of the historic J.H. Whittemore estate. Originally built in 1892, this destination demonstrates a legacy of love for family, artistry, and human connection.
A quick excursion from Stamford through scenic rolling hills and wooded landscape delivers you to this idyllic farm listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The sacred soil here has been home to beloved chicken pot pies, award-winning ice cream, and rich agricultural traditions. Nestled in a nutrient-dense microclimate that produces grapes that inspire delight with every sip, the grounds were brought to life by Frederick Law Olmsted and Warren Manning, influential figures in American landscape, and the
Tranquillity Vineyard & Winery: Where Time Fills Cups and Life is Savored
buildings were designed by McKim, Mead & White, a preeminent architecture firm in the early 20th century.
When Dr. Yimoyines discovered Tranquillity, he saw an opportunity to bring together his sons Dean John and Alexander along with their respective families to create an atmosphere where time slows down and memories are made amongst the enchanting backdrop of nature. Paired with exquisite wine and food, this is an experience that indulges all senses. Dr. Yimoyines explains, “When the Whittemore family entrusted us with this land, we saw more than a farm. It is a living canvas of history and a promise for the future. Together with my family, we honor that legacy by crafting the highest quality wines paired with an unforgettable experience.”
Take your own stroll through sun-soaked vines, taste the magic of the wines, and watch the sun dip behind the lake as the sky erupts in hues no camera can capture. This is where the past comes alive, friends create memories, and you can dream into the future. Savor every sip, laugh with a full heart, and feel at ease at Tranquillity.
THE ART OF FLÂNERIE: WANDERING WITH PURPOSE
ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY LAURIE A. GUZDA
Seward Johnson, was an American artist known for trompe-l'œil painted bronze statues.
An urban exploration discovering hidden, and not so hidden, curiosities.
Flânerie, the art of the flâneur, represents one of the most elegant forms of urban exploration. Born in 19th century Paris, this practice transcends simple wandering to become a philosophical approach to experiencing the city.
The flâneur (or flâneuse for women) is not merely a stroller but an urban observer— someone who walks the city to experience it fully, without a predetermined destination or timeline. Unlike the hurried commuter, the flâneur moves at a leisurely pace, absorbing the sights, sounds, and energy of urban spaces.
The concept emerged during Paris’s transformation under Baron Haussmann, when wide boulevards replaced medieval streets, creating new spaces for public life. Writers like Charles Baudelaire immortalized the flâneur as a “passionate spectator”, someone who could be “away from home and yet feel oneself everywhere at home.”
What distinguishes flânerie from tourism or casual walking is its mindful quality. The flâneur engages in a form of meditation through movement, developing what Walter Benjamin called the “botanizing on the asphalt”. This practice involves noticing architectural details, observing social interactions, and contemplating the pulse of urban life with the detached curiosity of a scientist and the sensitivity of an artist.
The Algonquin building was built in 1894 and designed by a local architect named John Bogardus.
The modern flâneur exists in counterpoint to our efficiency-obsessed culture. In an era where navigation apps optimize our routes and smartphones constantly demand attention, flânerie offers radical presence. It invites us to look up, look around, and rediscover our surroundings with fresh eyes.
Practicing flânerie requires little more than comfortable shoes and an open mind. Begin by leaving digital devices behind or at least silenced. Choose an area—perhaps a neighborhood you think you know well—and allow yourself to be drawn by whatever catches your attention: an unusual doorway, an intriguing café, a fragment of conversation.
The rewards of flânerie extend beyond pleasure. Regular practitioners report enhanced creativity, as the mind makes unexpected connections while wandering. Urban planners and architects gain insights into how people actually use spaces. Writers and artists find inspiration in the countless small dramas unfolding on city streets.
Flânerie also offers a different way of knowing a city. Unlike the tourist following a checklist of monuments or the resident following habitual paths, the flâneur discovers the living character of neighborhoods—their rhythms, tensions, and transformations.
In recent years, flânerie has experienced a revival as people seek authentic experiences in increasingly homogenized urban landscapes. Walking collectives organize group drifts through cities worldwide. Photography enthusiasts practice “street photography”; in the tradition of flâneurs with cameras. Even some businesses now offer flâneur walks as creative exercises for employees.
At its heart, flânerie remains a democratic art. It requires no special equipment or training—only the willingness to slow down and pay attention. In doing so, the flâneur transforms ordinary streets into theaters of possibility and mundane moments into opportunities for discovery.
In an age of virtual experiences and mediated reality, the direct encounter with the urban landscape that flânerie provides becomes not just pleasurable but essential—a reminder that the most profound experiences often come not from seeking extraordinary destinations but from bringing extraordinary attention to the world right before our eyes.
Did you know George Washington dined here?
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BUILD YOUR IDEAL DIET AND EXERCISE PLAN
ARTICLE BY DAN PACHTER, EXERCISE PHYSIOLOGIST @BODYBYPURE
Forget rigid diet labels. The best nutrition and fitness approach blends the best ideas from several effective strategies to fit your lifestyle and goals - mentally and physically. Start with the basics: whole foods, quality protein, healthy fats, low processed carbs - nutrient-dense meals. These are foundations for improving body composition and long-term health.
Explore and mix elements from these effective diets:
• Mediterranean – Rich in olive oil, fish, and vegetables.
• Paleo – Focuses on ancestral, unprocessed foods.
• Whole30 – A reset that eliminates sugar, grains, and processed foods.
• Keto – High fat, very low carb; trains fat-burning metabolism.
• Carnivore – Animal-based and anti-inflammatory.
Fat loss doesn’t mean starvation. Strategic nutrient timing matters. After exercise, your body is primed to absorb and use nutrients efficiently. Constant calorie deficits can backfire. Use cycles of deficit and surplus instead.
Fasting is a powerful tool, not a punishment:
• Intermittent: 16:8,18:6, 20:4, OMAD (one meal a day)
• Prolonged: 48–72 hours for autophagy, insulin & immune system reset, and inflammation reduction
Research highlights how fasting affects longevity, gene expression and cellular health.
Performance experts show you can build muscle and get lean with time restricted eating.
OUR SUMMER WAS… stunning
WHAT WILL YOURS BE?
Study marine life from the water’s surface, or take a relaxing tour of the Norwalk islands at sunset. With charters on our new vessel to suit any taste, you can choose your Maritime adventure today.