The
Avon Theatre’s Past, Present, and Bold New Future
Letter from the Publisher
As autumn settles over our beautiful city, November arrives as a gentle reminder to pause and take stock of all we have to be grateful for. At Stamford City Lifestyle, this issue is our heartfelt tribute to gratitude - in all its forms. This month’s theme, Thankful, is more than a seasonal sentiment. It’s a celebration of the people, places, and moments that shape our community in meaningful ways.
Inside these pages, you’ll read about the cherished Avon Theatre, a Stamford institution since 1939, and the plans to renovate and modernize, while keeping its current charm.
We will also take you behind-the-scenes of Stamford Museum & Nature Center’s brand new, world class, Planetarium and Astrology Center.
Finally, you will hear from one of your neighbors, realtor and family man Ron Nyman, who will reflect on the holiday season and what makes Stamford so special to him and his family.
As the founder and publisher of this magazine, I’m especially thankful to you - our readers, our advertising partners, my amazing team, and the Stamford community. Your continued support allows us to highlight the vibrant culture, diversity, creativity, and heart that define our city.
Whether you're gathering with family, lending a hand to a neighbor, or simply taking a quiet moment to reflect, I hope this issue inspires you to carry thankfulness into your everyday life.
From our team to yours, thank you - and Happy Thanksgiving.
Warmly,
MARTY SHAPIRO, PUBLISHER @STAMFORDCITYLIFESTYLEMAGAZINE
November 2025
PUBLISHER
Marty Shapiro | Marty.Shapiro@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Laurie A. Guzda | laurie.guzda@citylifestyle.com
SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR
Eva Glassman
AREA COORDINATOR
PJ Kennedy
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER
Jay Cohen
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
President Matthew Perry
COO David Stetler
CRO Jamie Pentz
CoS Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Mary Albers
LAYOUT DESIGNER Meredith Wilson
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Anna Minnick
Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com/franchise.
CULINARY• EVENTS • LIFESTYLE
inside the issue
Corcoran Centric Realtors, Ron & Alec Nyman Share Family Holiday Traditions
Peter Gistelinck, Executive Director with Avon Theatre Board CoChairs: Susan Cullman and Arthur Selkowitz introduce the Deborah & Chuck Royce Cinema Arts Center.
Jay Cohen
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city scene
1: Mayor Simmons and Francois Magnant, owner of Wings Arena ice skating facility, at Grand Opening. 2: 100 Black Men of Stamford annual golf outing. 3: Mayor Simmons and Mia Schipani (moderator) at the Stamford Movers and Shakers Leadership Breakfast.
SCAN ME CUVS.ORG
PHILLY JACKIE
Family, Food, Fun and Gratitude.
Corcoran Centric Realtors, Ron & Alec Nyman Share Family Holiday Traditions
The holiday season has always been one of our favorite times of year. The air turns crisp, lights pop up on storefronts and homes, and that sense of community we love so much seems to shine even brighter.
For our family, Thanksgiving and Hanukkah are especially meaningful. Both are rooted in family and tradition, and over the years we’ve built a few of our own. A couple of days before Thanksgiving, we start our annual pie deliveries from Oronoque Farms in Shelton (fantastic homemade pies!) — several hundred of them, handed out across the county to friends, clients, and neighbors. We also make sure plenty get dropped off at The Food Bank of Lower Fairfield County in Stamford. It’s a tradition that kicks off the holiday season for us and reminds us what it’s all about — sharing, connecting, and giving back.
Hanukkah brings its own kind of magic. Lighting the menorah each night connects us to generations before us, and the house fills with the sound of songs, laughter, and
photo credit: Happy HaHa Studio
“But what makes this time
of year so special isn’t just how beautiful
it is — it’s
the sense of community.”
the smell of latkes (except for that one year when we burned them to a crisp). Every year, we make a special trip to Beldotti’s Bakery on Newfield Avenue for their jelly donuts — a must. And we never miss the giant menorah lighting at the Stamford Chabad, which has become a favorite family ritual.
The season has a way of making our town shine. It starts with Stamford’s Thanksgiving Day Parade and, of course,
the holiday tree lighting at Heights and Lights. But what makes this time of year so special isn’t just how beautiful it is — it’s the sense of community. There’s a closeness here, a way that family and neighbors intertwine, that makes every gathering feel warmer. As we celebrate Thanksgiving and Hanukkah this year, we’re reminded how grateful we are to live here.
H O P E
Begins with YOU A SEASON TO SEE THE UNSEEN
The holidays have a way of calling us back to what matters most—faith, family, compassion, and the quiet but powerful act of giving. As lights go up and calendars fill, there are still many who sit in silence, carrying burdens too heavy to bear alone. But what if this season, you could be the spark that changes everything for someone else?
The founders of City Lifestyle, through their private foundation, are once again launching its annual Christmas Giving Campaign—a heartfelt effort to seek out and support individuals and families who have quietly fallen through the cracks. The mission is simple: to bring light, dignity, and hope to those who need it most.
Since its beginning just four years ago, this initiative has grown from a humble idea into a life-changing movement. Last Christmas alone, more than 200 families across the country received unexpected support—financial relief, but also something even more powerful.
“We don’t just send checks,” says Steven Schowengerdt, CEO and founder of City Lifestyle. “We send a message: You are seen. You are loved. And you are not forgotten.”
Together with City Lifestyle President Matthew Perry, Steven has helped shape this into a tradition that goes far beyond charity. “This is about community,” Matthew adds. “We believe we’ve been blessed, so now we get to be a blessing.”
Every story begins with a nomination. Often, it’s a neighbor, coworker, friend, or teacher—someone who’s been quietly carrying too much for too long. One past recipient, after receiving unexpected support during a time of deep personal struggle, wrote:
SCAN TO NOMINATE
“We send a message: You are seen. You are loved. And you are not forgotten.”
“Beyond the very practical solution of receiving funds to fix my car, this thing you guys worked together to do is bigger than that. I carry the Christmas card you sent in my purse. When things get really hard, I pull it out and remember what it felt like to be seen. That card represents hope— that change for the better is possible. I’m not sure how many people get to carry hope around in their purse. But I do.”
Another wrote in after her husband was diagnosed with aggressive brain cancer and unable to work:
“This support has blessed our family not only financially, but emotionally and spiritually as we trust God to meet our needs throughout this difficult time. Thank you to our anonymous friend and to your foundation. What a joy and gift to be part of God’s family!”
Each year brings countless stories like these—real lives touched by simple acts of kindness. Some use the funds to pay overdue bills, others to afford groceries, medication, or repairs. But no matter the circumstance, the impact is the same: hope is restored.
This season, you have the opportunity to be part of that. The campaign is now open to nominations—completely confidential and prayerfully considered. Whether it’s someone battling illness, facing unemployment, or just in need of a helping hand, you can bring them a moment of grace that will ripple far beyond Christmas morning.
“Knowing my mom was chosen filled my heart with indescribable joy,” said another past recipient. “Your generosity doesn’t just brighten her life; it inspires hope and faith in all of us. It enables her to stay in her home and get back on her feet.”
Nominations are open from November 1st to December 5th, 2025. To submit someone you know, simply scan the QR code or visit @CityLifestyle on Instagram, where you’ll find the nomination form in the bio.
This holiday season, let’s give more than gifts. Let’s give each other the gift of being seen. Because sometimes, the smallest gesture becomes someone’s greatest miracle.
To nominate someone in need, visit: KingdomBuildingFoundation.org or scan the QR code.
THE AVON
Rolling Out the Red Carpet in Stamford... and the winner is...
ARTICLE BY MARTY SHAPIRO | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JAY COHEN
“Reel Magic”: The Avon Theatre’s Past, Present, and Bold New Future.
Few cultural landmarks in Stamford evoke as much nostalgia and community pride as the Avon Theatre – Deborah & Chuck Royce Cinema Arts Center. Nestled in the heart of downtown on Bedford Street, the Avon is much more than a movie house; it’s a living archive of cinema history and a hub for film lovers of all ages. Yet, its story holds more than many realize.
Opened in 1939 during Hollywood’s Golden Age, the Avon was built in a classic Art Deco style and quickly became a staple of
downtown Stamford. What’s less known is that by the early 2000s, the theater was near closure. It was only through the persistent efforts of local residents and the extraordinary vision and generosity of Deborah and Chuck Royce that the Avon was not only preserved but also reimagined as a nonprofit cinema arts center. Today, it remains the last independent theater in Fairfield County dedicated to film as a cultural experience.
Ask anyone who walks through its doors, and they’ll tell you the Avon holds a special place in their hearts. For some, it’s where they had their first date. For others, it’s where they saw a film that changed
their worldview or attended a Q&A that sparked new ideas.
There’s a common feeling: the Avon doesn’t just show movies; it creates lasting memories. It’s a place where people gather to reflect, discuss, and be moved. “With a transformational renovation and expansion currently underway, the Avon is preparing for its next chapter,” said Susan Cullman and Arthur Selkowitz, Avon Theatre Board Co-Chairs. “The mission isn’t just to restore a beloved building, but to develop it into a vibrant, future-facing cultural hub, one that continues to serve future generations with bold programming, educational outreach, and community partnerships.”
Peter Gistelinck, Avon Theatre Executive Director, said, “In an age when independent cinemas are vanishing, saving the Avon means preserving a vital space for storytelling, diversity, and connection for Fairfield County. Most importantly, the Avon belongs to the entire community. As a nonprofit, every ticket purchased, and every donation, directly supports its mission. The Avon thrives because people believe in its value, not just as a theater, but as a shared cultural space. Its future isn’t just in the hands of a few; it’s in the hearts of everyone who walks through its doors.”
To make that future possible, the Avon has launched the public phase of its $14 million “Avon reCreated Capital Campaign”. Thanks to generous early support The Avon is close to their final goal. To learn more about giving opportunities and to put your name in the lights, visit www.avontheatre.org. Every contribution, large or small, plays a vital role in completing this vision.
The countdown is over. Prepare for launch!
SM&NC Members, we're reserving our brand-new Planetarium's premiere showings and first entry through the doors of our new building exclusively for you! When you pre-register to attend one of our first-ever Planetarium shows on Saturday 11/15 or Sunday 11/16, you'll enjoy exclusive early access to our new Astronomy Center. Showtimes are every hour on the hour from 10 am – 4 pm.
$8/seat
We're unveiling our new Astronomy Center to the community with two unforgettable festival days that are bound to be out of this world! TWO NOVEMBER DATES FROM 1 0 am – 2 pm
A STAR IS BORN
ARTICLE BY LAURIE A. GUZDA
A NEW COSMIC JOURNEY BEGINS AT THE STAMFORD MUSEUM & NATURE CENTER’S ASTRONOMY CENTER
Do you remember August 1969, when Neil Armstrong first walked on the moon? Have you ever spent a summer’s evening gazing up at the stars, wondering, “What’s out there?” For those who grew up in Stamford, one of the most magical school or scout trips was to the Stamford Museum & Nature Center’s Planetarium. It inspired curiosity, wonder, and dreams of the unknown. Fast forward sixty years to 2025, and the excitement is reborn with the opening of the new Stamford Museum & Nature Center (SM&NC) Planetarium—and it is extraordinary.
Executive Director Melissa Mulrooney is the visionary behind the project. Determined and unwavering—even through a pandemic—she, her team, and a dedicated board of directors brought this enhanced, expanded dream to life.
PAST MEETS FUTURE
What’s remarkable about this new chapter is how seamlessly the future connects to the past. The design respects the farm and surrounding natural landscape while ushering in a bold new era. As with so many great endeavors, the work honors those who came before while creating something fresh and vital for generations to come.
Inside, the “Modern Farm” motif continues—but step into the Planetarium and you’ll feel transported. Think of a “Baby Sphere,” reminiscent of Las Vegas’ spectacular Sphere. The immersive dome opens endless opportunities to educate, entertain, and engage visitors of every age and interest.
BUILDING THE DREAM
The architecture was designed by TSKP Studio, founded in 1970 by Tai Soo Kim. Over the decades, the firm has evolved into a collaborative partnership known for work that is elegant, modern, and thoughtful. At SM&NC, architects Whit Iglehart and Jesse Saylor led the project, blending vision with purpose.
Landscape design came from Langan, guided by natural site patterns and realized by Joe Aveni. Their work creates a powerful connection between people and place, extending the experience beyond the walls and into the surrounding environment.
GATEWAY TO THE COSMOS
The Planetarium is only half the story. The new Observatory offers a direct path to the night sky. As Charles Eder, Director of Astronomy, explains:
“Our hope is to provide visitors with clear, up-close views of objects both in and beyond our solar system. With our 14-inch telescope, guests will see craters and mountains on the Moon, Jupiter’s cloud bands and moons, Saturn’s rings, dazzling star clusters, nebulae, and galaxies. But most of all, we want to spark conversations— connecting people with the wonders of space and astronomy.”
COUNTDOWN TO LAUNCH
SM&NC members will have exclusive access to premiere Planetarium shows on Saturday, November 15 and Sunday, November 16, with showings every hour from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tickets are $8 per member, and pre-registration is required.
Non-members are welcome to enjoy the grounds on those dates, but only members may attend the premiere Planetarium shows.
The public celebration continues with ASTRO Fest on Saturday, November 22 and Sunday, November 30, 10a-2pm—a festive event filled with skywatching, hands-on activities, and family fun. Starting Monday, November 17, the Astronomy Center opens seven days a week. Weekday mornings are reserved for schools and groups, ensuring thousands of students each year discover the wonders of the cosmos through immersive STEAM learning. Afternoons (Wednesday–Friday) and weekends will feature regular Planetarium programming for the public. Advance registration is always encouraged.
JOIN THE JOURNEY
Membership at SM&NC offers more than early access—it’s a yearround passport to workshops, events, and family activities. Options are available for singles, couples, and seniors. Join now and be among the first to experience Stamford’s newest jewel: the Astronomy Center. Truly, it’s out of this world. www.stamfordmuseum.org
A STORIED LEGACY
The Stamford Museum was founded in 1936 under the leadership of Dr. George R.R. Hertzberg, beginning in three rented rooms at the Stamford Trust Company. In 1945, the eight-acre estate of E.Y. Weber was deeded to the city, which leased its stone carriage house to the museum. The construction of I-95 forced a move, and in 1955, friends of the museum purchased the Bendel Mansion, built for fashion magnate Henri Willis Bendel. In 2018, SM&NC unveiled the Knobloch Family Farmhouse, its first new building in more than five decades. Today, with the opening of the Astronomy Center, SM&NC combines the Planetarium and Observatory into a true hub for STEAM education—linking past, present, and future in one stellar vision.
Bill Dutton 1950s
ARE SAYING WHAT OUR READERS
“Thank you again for the time and talent you put into the feature on me in the September issue. A friend reached out to say how much she enjoyed it, including the incredible photographs, but she couldn’t recall where she’d seen it, possibly either Vogue or Architectural Digest -- I thought you’d like to know you’re right up there with some seriously elite titles!”
– Fiona Davis, NY Times BestSelling Author
"The West Side Boys article was very special to me because I am one of them and our monthly dinners is a dinner I look forward to. Marty, if you ever run for political office, you have my vote."
–
David Vetrane, Stamford Resident
"I honestly and legitimately and wholly LOVED the Flanerie piece (July 2025). It wasn't just about a place; it was about our EXPERIENCE with a place, with the idea of place, with the lifetime of memories we take into any encounter with the world of seeing, hearing, feeling: and you made it "about" Stamford merely via the images - that's all it needed!"
– Tim Sommer, Stamford Resident, Author and Music Industry Exec
Marty turned a magazine into community.
City Lifestyle isn’t just a publication — it’s a pulse. A rhythm of voices, neighbors, and stories woven together by someone who believes in the power of connection. As we expand, we’re looking for people ready to turn care into community. Are you ready to be that spark?
Stamford City Lifestyle
Published by Marty Loved by Stamford
DUKE SHAPIRO
Rest in Peace November 10, 2007September 19, 2025
MY BEST FRIEND
(lyrics by Michael Delguidice)
When I get home you got that smile on your face.
You are a part of me … a love I could never replace.
You know you’re my best friend.
You give me something that I just can’t explain.
You take my fear away … you help me forget all my pain.
You know you’re my best friend.
Ooh. My best friend.
You always listen but you never offend.
It’s unconditional a bond that could never pretend.
You know you’re my best friend.
You give your time to me you never pretend.
One place I know I’ll be is right there with you till the end.
Because you’re my best friend.
Ooh. My best friend.
When it’s your time to go I’ll do what I can.
Every part of me will stay with you right to the end.
Because you’re my best friend.
Giant Helium Balloons! Marching Bands! Incredible Floats! Sunday • 12 Noon • November 23, 2025
Point72 Giant Balloon In ation Party Saturday, November 22 • 3-6pm
Sunday - 5pm December 7, 2025
Rappelling Santa, Fireworks and Tree Lighting. Landmark Square & Latham Park