Ridgefield Magazine | July/August, 2020

RIDGEFIELD MAGAZINE

MAGAZINE

J U LY / A U G U S T 2 0 2 0

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WHAT A WILD TIME to be alive.

Undeniably, the past few months have been profoundly challenging for our

Have your own frameable copy of

Businesses have embraced new practices, families have embraced new dynamics, and members of the community have embraced one another. As the mom of a toddler, I’ve had more time with my daughter than ever before, including my maternity leave. That’s something I’ll happily embrace.

Many are embracing new opportunities, too—myself included. I’m incredibly honored to continue telling the remarkable stories of the Ridgefield community. Nearly two decades ago, Geoffrey Morris created Ridgefield Magazine. Over the years, the magazine has undoubtedly united, inspired, and delighted countless residents through its compelling content, vibrant visuals, and steadfast integrity. I’ve known Geoffrey through our mutual involvement with Ridgefield’s Economic & Community Development Commission and look forward to his continued involvement in the magazine.

As we approach the summer solstice, I’m optimistic for what’s to come. The change of seasons offers plenty of reasons to get outside, and our natural surroundings afford endless backdrops for outdoor adventures. Here’s wishing you and yours a safe, sunshine-filled summer.

——Amanda Duff

KATE WARK PHOTOGRAPHY

Ridgefield’s darkest days seemingly behind us, kindness, compassion, and empathy have prevailed.

Contents

C O N T E N T S / / J U LY / A U G U S T 2 0 2 0

features

40

Resilient Ridgefield The global pandemic forced local businesses to pivot in ways they never thought possible. We shine the light on the creative and innovative ways some businesses have adapted.

By AmAndA duff

34

Sell Time Residents Sarah and Joe share the trial and tribulations of buying, selling, and moving

34

during a global pandemic.

B y S A r A h S tA B i l e - m o t tA

30

Get Out // Connecticut is

home to endless natural escapes. Outdoor enthusiast Linsday Poindexter shares some of her favorite hikes and outdoor adventures. Page 44.

6 //

July/August 2020

Ten Minutes With Stefanie Trilling didn’t realize she’d turn into an overnight sensation when she started sketching parody children’s book covers with her kids. We learned about her journey.

By AmAndA duff

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CONTENTS CONTINUED

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25

28 48

HOLLYWOOD CLASSICS RETURN TO THE BIG SCREEN!

departments JULY 1 @ 7PM

4 Scribbled Note 10 Behind the Scenes

19 The Vibe Top wine, beer, and cocktails for summer, The Robinson family’s

Meet the writers and the

JULY 19 @ 4PM

cover illustrator for this issue

for summer fun, and Toyota’s

12 Feedback

Land Cruiser Heritage Edition

The readers have their say

14 ShoutOut This, that, and the other thing

SEPTEMBER 14 @ 7PM

28 How We Met Eileen and Jay Walker

30 Ten Minutes With

16 We’ve Got Answers

Stefanie Trilling, the creator of

Approaching etiquette in a

48 The Last Shot

post-pandemic world

Children’s Books for Pandemics

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8 //

July/August 2020

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behind the scenes JUL / AUG 2 0 2 0

Ridgefield MAGAZINE

Vol 18, Issue 4 Jul/Aug 2020

AMANDA DUFF

Editor-in-Chief and Publisher

MICHELE MOONAN + ASHLEY FORTE are the curators behind the social platform Ridgefield Moms, part of The Local Moms Network.

Motherhood and a passion to help connect their community drive Ashley and Michele to deliver meaningful and helpful information to parents in the area. As such, they are thrilled to share their tips for a memorable summer. “Summer 2020 Is Not Canceled” appears on page 26.

DEBORAH HAYN

Creative Director ALANA TAYLOR

Editorial Assistant KIM ZEISS

Operations Manager SHARON PECK

Production Manager

LINDSAY POINDEXTER is a freelance writer who calls the Connecticut Shoreline “home.” Mom to three adventure-loving children—CJ, Finley, and Annalise—Lindsay loves exploring Connecticut’s outdoors, especially if it involves hiking or some sort of outdoor exploring. Lindsay had fun recounting some of her favorite “Nutmeg State” locales in her article “Get Out: By Land, By Sea, or By Tree” which appears on page 44.

KELLY GELS

Operations Assistant Contributing Writers Ashley Forte, Roger Garbow, Gerri Lewis, Michele Moonan, Sarah Stabile Motta, Jack Sanders

Contributing Photographers Kate Wark, Lindsay Poindexter

JACK SANDERS retired in 2014 after 45 years as an editor of The Ridgefield Press. He’s written nine books on history and natural history, including Wicked Ridgefield and Ridgefield Chronicles. He also created and administers the “Old Ridgefield” Facebook group. He and his wife, Sally, a retired newspaper editor who is on the board of the Ridgefield Historical Society, live in a 250-year old farmhouse in Ridgefield. See “Last Shot” on page 48.

KRISTEN TERRANA illustrated this cover.

“Creating this art was deeply personal for me,” said Kristen. “As a Redding resident and a supporter of many Ridgefield businesses, it was important to create an illustration that played tribute to the area’s dedicated frontline workers.” Kristen studied at The School of Visual Arts, and her artwork can be seen in magazines, books, and exhibits throughout the U.S. kristenterrana.com

10 //

July/August 2020

ADVERTISING SALES Lisa Stiehl | 914-760-6875 We welcome input about this and future issues. Please address letters, queries, and ideas to To advertise:

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feedback

NICE HOUSE What a lovely house and lovely family featured in the article by Megan Smith-Harris in your May/June magazine [“Backyard Bliss”]. Very appropriate and classy.

—Rebecca Young

VOTING RIGHTS So grateful for the article “A More Perfect Union” [May/June]. Celebrating 100 years of women’s voting by talking to contemporary women is a really nice way to approach the topic.

—Marcia Giamatti

THANK YOU I’m grateful for this wonderful magazine [May/June] that helps our community feel connected in times like this. Thank you!

—Cameron Cole Carcelen

DYNAMIC FAMILY I enjoyed reading the Young Family story [May/June] about the Milligans, their wonderful wine business and where they find joy in the various fun, kid-friendly spots in town.

—Joanne DuBosque

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ShoutOut

This, that, and the other things

Meal Time

KE E PI N’ IT R EAL Real Housewives of Homeschooling Facebook group to bring humor and togetherness to the sudden lifestyle change moms faced. The group quickly amassed a following of over 2,500

Some 35,000 meals were donated to Danbury Hospital employees over the course of just two months. Many were sent through a Meal Train group started by Danbury resident Traci Bruno and the Danbury High School Baseball Team. Donors included individuals, families, and countless local organizations like Angel of Ridgefield and the staff at SRMS. Norwalk Hospital felt the love, too, receiving over 12,000 meals. “People were so generous,” said Norwalk Hospital’s Akira Do.

Bright Side

began selling wine glasses and tumblers boasting the group’s logo, donating the proceeds to various COVID relief organizations. As she says: “I’ll continue producing the glasses as long as there’s demand - although I’m hoping we will not have to update the glasses with “The Real

S E N I O R STAT U S

graduating senior, ensuring they’d have a The group quickly rose to over 800 members, who adopted over 200 seniors. “It’s been such a joy watching this connect the comtwo adopted seniors.)

14 //

July/August 2020

Bucket List Sea Bags and Life Is Good have teamed up to create an “In This Together” and “Heroes Wear Scrubs” line.

Through their bucket bags, ditty bags, wristlets and more, they’re committed to spreading messages of positivity via their sustainable, made in the USA products. To learn more about Sea Bags and view the entire product line, visit seabags.com.

It’s impossible to miss the bright, cheerful mural that Ross Clark painted on the side of the Clark Construction building in April. Of the mural on the corner of Branchville Road and Route 7, Clark said, “It’s been really heartwarming seeing the joy it’s brought people, and I’m so happy I was able to provide that to the town.”

Thanks, Ross, for the reminder that as a community we’re in this together, pandemic or not.

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ETIQUETTE may not be topof-mind following countless weeks at home—after all Ridgefield, like so many communities, urged residents to avoid social interactions entirely. However as social lives resume, long-standing etiquette rules will be re-written. Myka Meier, entrepreneur, etiquette coach, and author of Modern Etiquette Made Easy: A Five-Step Method to Mastering Etiquette and Business Etiquette Made Easy: The Essential Guide to Professional Success, shares five tips for navigating social situations in a post-pandemic world.

Embrace handshake alternatives.

The handshake dates back to ancient Greece; it was a symbol of peace, showing that neither person was carrying a weapon. Though we no longer practice it for that reason, we do use it to show friendliness or

professionalism, and its comeback is inevitable. Until then, try one of these methods I created as alternatives to the handshake.

The “Grasp and Greet”: Place the palm of your right hand over the back of your left hand. Hold your hands together over your heart.

The “Stop, Drop, and Nod”: Clasp your hands behind your back and give a simple nod as a “hello” gesture.

Have e-compassion. Struggling with how to begin your emails? Open your emails with a sign of care during this time, and begin with a statement rather than a question. Instead of “Hi, how are you?” Which could be a question people may have a hard time answering, try “‘I hope you are safe during this time,” or “I hope that you’ve been healthy and well since we last spoke.”

Wisdom, experience, resilience, perspective and talent live here.

Proactively suggest “air hugs.”

Feeling uncomfortable about upcoming social plans with a “hugger”? It’s important to suggest an alternative before they lean in. For example, as you are approaching one another, you can say, “I want to make sure I keep you nice and safe, so I’m sticking to air hugs.”

Electronic communications are OK. Need to adjust the date or time of an upcoming event you’re hosting?

Due to the number of people you’d have to communicate with, it’s perfectly appropriate to send electronic communication to everyone at once, even if you used paper invitations for the event.

Respect your host’s rules. Above all, etiquette is about being kind and respectful to those around you. Respecting the boundaries set by others, as well as successfully communicating your boundaries, is imperative. If you plan to RSVP “yes” to an event where the host has requested that attendees wear masks, it would be respectful to follow the mask rule set by your host.

For more information about Myka Meier, visit beaumontetiquette.com.

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the

vibe

Jul / Aug 2020

Cheers to Summer!

Five top wines for outdoor sipping //

››

By Lars Guy

AS A LIFELONG wine enthusiast whose interest dates back to the early 1970s, a question I’m constantly asked is “what’s your favorite wine?” It’s a complex question, not unlike asking a parent “who is your favorite child?” I’ve tasted thousands of wines in my lifetime and can honestly say they’ve all had desirable attributes of one kind or another. Therefore, my answer is usually “it depends on the time of year.”

In New England, it’s common for our dining habits to change according to the seasons. The heartier, more robust dishes of fall and winter give way to a lighter, more elegant cuisine of spring and summer. Though today we’re free of timeworn notions that certain dishes must be served with certain wines, it is nevertheless true that there is an undeniable affinity between how some wines “marry” better with certain foods. When in doubt, the safest way to ensure you’re on the right track is to match the weight of the wine to the weight of the cuisine. Additionally, the value of a full-service, professionally staffed wine shop where you’re certain to receive sound advice cannot be underestimated. Ancona’s Wines & Liquors is all that—and more. And with two locations in Ridgefield and one in Wilton, their shops are easily accessible.

Here are my top picks for summer wines, all available through Ancona’s. They are sure to please, whether as aperitifs or as the perfect pair to most grilled seafood, poultry, salads, sushi and lighter pasta dishes.

July/August 2020 //

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eat + drink Maison Jadot Macon Villages – Chardonnay remains

LARS’ IDEAL PAIRING //

Macon Village with grilled shrimp, corn, and juicy tomatoes.

the number-one varietal in America. This is as pure and unmanipulated an expression as you can find. A house wine of ours for decades. $13 Aix – Pronounced “ex”, this Provence Rosé, is summer in the bottle. Dating back to the 1880s, it is fresh, fragrant, and delicately fruity. $18 Agricola Punica Samas – Vermentino with 20 percent Chardonnay added, this beauty

from Sardinia offers crisp minerality along with tropical fruit and citrus notes. $22 Dom. De Villegeai Coteaux du Geinnois Rive Droite –

This Sauvignon Blanc from the Loire Valley offers bright fresh fruit in a crisp and refreshing package. $14 Terres Blondes Gamay – Also from the Loire Valley, this lovely Gamay is vibrant, lively and packed with red fruit aromas. Perfect with pizza, burgers. $14.

Pints & Panels’ Summer Beer Picks

››

SUMMERTIME, and the sippin’ is easy. But with “summer beer” covering such a wide range of flavors, choosing a beer can be a mystifying experience.

Cartoonist Em Sauter, a Connecticut native who is an author, Advanced Cicerone and beer educator, shares her top “summer beer” picks.

Two Roads (Stratford, CT) Road Jam Raspberry Wheat Ale Road Jam shines when

temps rise above 70F—and it

finishes dry, not sweet.

Allagash (Portland, ME) White Witbier The ultimate

American interpretation of a Belgian witbier, White Witbier is spicy and refreshing.

Fox Farm (Salem, CT) Gather German-style Pilsner Gath-

er’s aroma is like standing in an herb garden on a warm day.

I’m a huge fan of the pastoral, Salem, CT brewery.

Counterweight Headway IPA (Hamden, CT) One of the

best Connecticut IPAs on the

market—it has a nice citrus flavor and a great price point.

Sierra Nevada (Chico, CA) Summerfest Czech Pilsner

A Czech pilsner (typically fuller-bodied darker than its German counterpart) with lots of flavor, Summerfest is a great BBQ option.

Em’s website, Pints and Panels, celebrates Visual Beer Education and is updated daily. Follow her on social media @pintsandpanels, and visit pintsandpanels.com.

Cocktail Hour TEQUILA ESCAPE may be known for margaritas, but their cocktail menu is incredibly diverse. Their mixologists put a fresh and fragrant twist on the classic Bee’s Knees cocktail, which dates back to Prohibition, by using a local, lavender-infused honey. If you don’t have that at home, head to to learn how to make a lavender simple syrup using just honey, hot water, and dried lavender.

Tequila Escape’s version is truly the bee’s knees!

Lavender Bee’s Knees 2 oz Roku Suntory Japanese Gin 1 oz Freshly Squeezed Lemon Juice .75 oz Fresh LavenderInfused Local Honey Combine all ingredients in a cocktail shaker, shake vigorously. Strain into a coupe or martini glass.

Enjoy!

20 //

July/August 2020

I L L U S T R AT I O N / / E M S A U T E R

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people The Robinson family enjoying a December 2019 holiday vacation in one of their favorite

Prescription for Family The Robinson six have a different formula //

››

“PEOPLE make it seem like Ridgefield is at the end of the Earth,” Dr. Deanne Mraz Robinson said, of the remarks friends would make when she or her husband Dave mentioned a potential move to Ridgefield. Ridgefield’s quaint vibe turned out to be exactly what they were looking for, and their decision was made after visiting town during the weekend of the “Ridgefield Gone Country” Annual BBQ Festival at the Lounsbury House. “We didn’t plan that, but the BBQ festival gave us a great feel for the community. We walked along Main Street and our

kids played in Ballard Park.

We knew it was home.”

That speaks volumes for Ridgefield since Deanne has called many charming places “home” throughout her career in dermatology. After completing her dermatology residency at Yale-New Haven Hospital, where she served as Chief Resident and Director for the Yale Resident Cosmetic Clinic, Deanne completed a fellowship in cosmetic and laser surgery at SkinCare Physicians in Chestnut Hill, MA. Two years ago, Deanne, along with her partner Dr. Rhonda Quain Klein, opened

By amanda duff

Westport-based Modern Dermatology of Connecticut.

The accomplished mom of four is unabashedly candid when describing her family’s dynamics. “We have a different paradigm than many families, but it works for us,” Deanne said. Dave is the primary childcare provider

to their kids: Dermott (14), Teagan (11), Callan (6), and Garrett (4). He is also a lacrosse coach at Post University in Waterbury. Dave thoroughly enjoys being back on the field and the opportunity to be a teacher and mentor to the players. “I’m always upfront when I meet

DYNAMIC DUO // Father and

son Tom and Nico Mantione held a virtual concert in May

and Nature’s Temptations Family Dinners program. More than 65 attendees zoomed in to watch the duo perform.

July/August 2020 //

21

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other moms. I say, ‘I work a lot, so my husband is the one to contact for a playdate.’

Dave knows all the other moms in town.”

Although Deanne typically travels two to three weekends a month for lectures and other speaking engagements, she and her family find time

AGES 1-5 www.landmarkpreschool.org

people to enjoy Ridgefield’s diverse dining scene. “TerraSole is Dave’s and my fave fave fave restaurant in town. We know Pietro well and everyone there is always so lovely. We love Luc’s, too.” Her children can’t get enough of Steve’s Bagels, and SoBol. “On Thursday mornings I usually

go into the office later, so Dave and I enjoy breakfast dates at Baja Cocina following school drop-offs. It’s a really nice way to spend time together, and we love their avocado toast.”

As for outdoor adventures, the Robinsons count Weir Farm and The Hickories

Landmark Preschool is where joyful learning begins to shape young minds as they embark on their journey of self-discovery. Our teachers focus on each child’s emerging academic strengths, both challenging and encouraging them in a safe, structured environment.

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among their favorite locales.

“We’re fortunate to have a multitude of beautiful places here” said Deanne. The family shops locally as much as possible, frequenting Lucy’s, Ridgefield Running Co. And Sammy + Nat. “Sammy + Nat is great for gifts, we just bought an adorable purple bunny with a monogram embroidered on the ear.”

All her kids have done karate at Ridgefield Kempo, and her daughter takes dance classes at Enchanted Garden. The Robinsons speak highly of their experiences with Ridgefield Montessori, Branchville Elementary, and East Ridge Middle School.

Their oldest child, Dermott, will be entering Ridgefield High School in the fall.

Like so many working parents, the pandemic has given Deanne a fresh perspective on the elusive work-life balance. While Modern Dermatology has continued to see patients in person as well as through telehealth, Deanne’s time at the office and traveling to and from speaking engagements has been drastically reduced. “I always found more time for work, but to take a step back and consciously decide to take more time for myself and my family is harder for me.”

Since stay-at-home orders began, Deanne has enjoyed countless hours with her kids, and has even started running again. As for the future, Deanne says with gratitude “if this is the new normal, I’m happy with that.”

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cars

GO ANYWHERE the Toyota Land Cruiser is in its element no matter where you travel.

Leather Meets Mud 2020 Toyota Land Cruiser Heritage Edition //

››

LET’S TRY a quick experiment. I’m going to guess what type of vehicle you drive. Here goes: it’s an SUV! Okay, that was too easy, because over the last three decades, SUVs have steadily replaced cars in our driveways.

While the top three vehicles sold in the U.S. are pickup trucks, here in the Northeast, SUVs and CUVs (compact utility vehicles) lead the way. And with good reason; they afford space for your family, pets, and stuff, while providing a commanding view of the road.

24 //

July/August 2020

When Toyota launched the Land Cruiser back in the early-fifties, it was designed for military service as a rugged, no-frills machine. Through generations, Land Cruisers have been one of the most durable and reliable vehicles on the planet. Go anywhere in the world, and you’ll find Land Cruisers; they’re one of the few vehicles sold in almost every country on earth. It’s no surprise they’re Toyota’s longest running model.

Although SUVs with AWD or 4WD can go almost anywhere, many of the SUVs

By roGer GarBow

you see in Fairfield County offer minimal ground clearance and low-profile tires, rendering them practically useless when taken “off the beaten path.” For those seeking the road less traveled, the Land Cruiser is an excellent choice.

With the ability to ford water over two feet deep, and with a 21-degree breakover angle, the Land Cruiser can “crawl” over obstacles as easily as a Jeep Wrangler. Its 4-wheel drive system, which features a locking center differential and two-speed transfer case, is better than

expected. Additional features include Toyota’s exclusive Multi-terrain Select, Crawl Control with Off-road Turn Assist, and Multi-terrain Monitor, displaying views of the front, rear and sides on the center screen.

Yet, with all the heavyduty hardware, the Land Cruiser delivers a remarkably comfortable ride. The interior boasts luxurious amenities including a center console cooler. One of my favorite features is the split rear tailgate. While most SUVs have a one-piece liftgate, the Land Cruiser has a power-operated top half that goes up while the lower half folds down—making tailgating a breeze. Range Rover is the only other manufacturer that offers a split gate.

Impressive qualities considered, the Land Cruiser is not perfect. As expected with any large, luxury, V8-powered SUV, fuel economy is not a priority. Thankfully, the 25-gallon fuel tank affords acceptable range between fill-ups. Inside, this big Toyota is loaded with technology and features, yet it lacks Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, which should be standard in 2020. Fortunately, Toyota’s Siri Eyes Free and Bluetooth do offer easy phone connectivity and voice integration.

The Land Cruiser Heritage Edition offers added luxury— but it comes at a price. The bronze BBS wheels look great, but wear the same mud and snow-rated 18-inch tires as the standard model.

The Heritage Edition gains a rugged roof basket, but it’s

PHOTO // ROGER GARBOW

quite noisy at highway speeds. A great alternative is Connecticut-based Thule, which makes units that are more aerodynamic and better-looking. Three things you lose with the Heritage are the third-row seat, the console cooler, and the side running boards. You might not need the extra seating or cold drinks, but the running boards make entry and exit much easier, especially if you are vertically challenged like me.

Buying advice: stick with the standard model and save $3,000.

So, how popular is the Land Cruiser? Sales have been increasing for the last two years. In a marketplace where most vehicles are obsolete in five to seven years, Toyota’s current Land Cruiser design, at thirteen years old, is truly ageless. Production is limited, though, so it’s unlikely you’d see another one in your neighborhood.

I love the Land Cruiser and can envision myself owning one. The road less traveled is appealing to me, especially during a global pandemic.

1967 FERRARI 275GTB 4 NART SPYDER, Silver/burgundy, matching numbers, rebuilt engine and driveline.

New paint, leather and top. Outstanding mechanical & cosmetic condition. Ready for show or rally circuit.

1958 FERRARI 250GT TOUR DE FRANCE, Red-black/tan, matching #s, covered headlight, 3 louvers, FIA papers!

Engine rebuilt. Period hill climb history. Ran Italian 2002 MM Retrospective. On Pole, Ferrari poster (2004) & Cavallino cover (5/2008). Race ready. POA.

1961 FIAT OSCA 1500S PININFARINA CABRIOLET, Red/black leather, rare twin cam 4-cylinder Maserati OSCA engine, JUST REBUILT! Weber downdraft carburetor, 4-speed transmission, high performance brakes.

Spectacular older restoration. $75k USD

1953 AUSTIN HEALEY 100-4 BN1, Black/red, complete, ground-up restoration by Marque expert, 4-sp w/OD, alloy cylinder head, Venolia pistons, billet crank, Carrillo rods, 2”SUs, louvered hood, front-disc brakes, built for rallies and all road & track events. Better than new condition through-out. $125k USD.

1965 PORSCHE 356SC CABRIOLET, Red/black, matching #s, rebuilt eng, new top/headliner, seats & tires, flawless paint, sound underpinnings, 69k mi, documented ownership. Outstanding cosmetic & mechanical condition. Ready for rally or show! POA.

1974 JAGUAR XKE SERIES III ROADSTER, Burgundy/ black, matching #s, 4-sp, AC, PS, PB, and wire wheels.

35,000 miles. Two tops. Recent full engine service.

Outstanding mechanical & cosmetic condition. Runs & drives as new. Zero rust, zero leaks. $79k USD.

CONSIGNMENTS WELCOME

350 ADAMS STREET, BEDFORD HILLS, NY 10507 Tel 914-997-9133 Fax 914-997-9136 sales@motorclassiccorp.com

www.motorclassiccorp.com

Quaran-teeny Treats Virtual birthday parties are one of the many trends that emerged from the pandemic. While many families were sheltered at home, virtual celebrations via Zoom, “drive-by” car parades, or driveway birthday parties became the norm. Parents handed out party favors, balloons, and cupcakes to friends in cars decked with homemade signs and banners.

Every tree needs a champion.

ing kids the traditional “happy birthday” song and cake ritual. The Cake Box started making individual “quaran-teeny” cakes that matched the celebrant’s promoted cupcakes for virtual birthday parties. Stacey’s Totally Baked even printed party information including Zoom instructions on individual packages.

As the parent of a “quarantine birthday girl” myself, I send a big “thank you” to any business that adapted to make sure birthdays stayed sweet.

THE CAKE BOX

Bartlett’s Ridgefield experts champion our clients’ trees and landscapes.

Al Krivickas 203-744-1400 pruning • fertilization • tick control insect and disease management

town the

vibe

living Ashley Forte and her family tend to the raised bed garden at their home.

Summer Is Not Canceled Make summer 2020 one to remember

››

THE NORTHERN hemisphere may officially transition to summer on June 20, but most Ridgefield families have been in “summer mode” since schools closed in March. With parents having to rapidly assume the roles of educators, everyday home rituals quickly took the place of learning: outdoor play became gym class, baking became home economics, and family time became sociology. As founders of the Ridgefield Moms, part of the Local Moms Network with over 100 locations across the

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country, it’s our duty—and pleasure—to give moms the gift of time by curating information and resources about everything Ridgefield. While we may not be able to turn back the clock on “summer mode,” we do strongly believe the season deserves its own fanfare. Here are our top picks for activities to keep your family entertained—and thriving—this summer.

Plant a Garden Time spent in the garden generates a sense of teamwork amongst kids. Choosing what

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and

to plant teaches strategic planning; fertilizing, seeding, and watering teaches accountability; and harvesting a plentiful bounty affords a sense of accomplishment.

An added bonus is that kids generally eat more vegetables when they understand the process, from plant to plate.

Plus, kids love putting on a pair of gardening gloves, grabbing their bucket of tools, and hitting the dirt. Fortunately, we have incredible supply shops and sustainable farms right here in town, making it easy to purchase

ashLey forte

everything from gardening essentials to locally grown seedlings.

Indulge s’more!

Nothing screams “summer” more than s’mores! We love the ritual of roasting marshmallows over a classic backyard fire. To elevate the campfire classic, we teamed up with food blogger Brenda Lanzilli of Salt Sugar Spice.

She shared her ultimate s’mores recipe—a s’mores ice cream sandwich!

Ingredients: graham crackers, chocolate chip ice

P H O T O S / / J . W . B R O W N P H O T O G R A P H Y; O U T F I T S / / C O U R T E S Y O F J . M C L A U G H L I N

Host an Outdoor Movie Night Lights, camera, action! Grab those lawn chairs, sleeping bags, wagons, or whatever else you have on hand and set the scene for a magical backyard movie night. Standard household supplies are all that are required to create a spellbinding experience for your children: buttery popcorn served

in classic red and white striped bags; cozy blankets; and a projector projecting onto a simple bed sheet are all you need to create a backyard drive-in style movie night complete with snuggles and sticky and sweet, snack-filled fingers.

It really is amazing—sometimes a simple change in scenery or routine is all that’s needed to reignite a spark in young children. Whether you fill your summer with backyard gardens, s’mores, and drive-in movies, or you laze about soaking up the summer sun, we hope your summer of 2020 goes down in the record books as the best yet.

For more tips and to subscribe to our e-newsletter, visit us online at ridgefieldmom.com.

BRENDA LANZILLI

cream, chocolate frosting, chocolate chips, oven-toasted marshmallows. Method: Simply spread an oven-toasted marshmallow & chocolate chip ice cream between a top and bottom layer of chocolate frosted graham crackers, then freeze.

For a more detailed recipe, visit: saltsugarspice.com/smores

S’MORE ICE CREAM SANDWICHES

Salt Sugar Spice blogger Bren-

the s’more a cool, refreshing twist.

View the recipe for this summer treat and more from Brenda at saltsugarspice.com.

family huddle around roast s’mores.

July/August 2020 //

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RFEC Ridgefield Mag_Jul-Aug2020

OUR yFOCUS Alwa s IS V ON YOU

5/28/20

How We Met //

By Gerri Lewis

As COVID-19 restrictions are lifted and you head out to enjoy the sun, make sure you wear the proper sunglasses. We’re here to help you see well and look good, with or without a mask. Call for an appointment.

96 Danbury Rd., Ridgefield • 203-438-5855 www.RidgefieldFamilyEyeCare.com

Ridgefield Family Eye Care – Ridgefield Mag - Focus 1/6 pg. Jul/Aug 2020

food scraps are a resource, not trash.

City and Country

start today: curbcompost.org

curbside compost weekly pick-up food scrap recycling + compost delivery 914-646-6890

EILEEN WALKER wasn’t all that interested in the flamboyant guy who breezed into her sorority house with his trench coat ballooning behind him and a scarf around his neck.

Eileen was a student at Cornell University and Jay Walker was between semesters working on a “Monopoly book” because, as Eileen says, “He and his nerdy friends got bored with chess.” Her thought was, “He’s not on my list.”

It was a year later that Eileen had

a chance to meet Jay again. A group from his fraternity and her sorority were socializing. When the bars closed they continued the evening at Jay’s fraternity house. It was then that Eileen had a chance to really talk to Jay. She was surprised to find he was a book lover and a collector. Jay began showing Eileen some of his favorites, including a photography book. “He showed it to me page, by page, by page,” she explains. Half way through the slow-page appreciation Eileen thought, “Is this guy ever going to make a move? We finished the book before any move was made.”

That was the launch of their relationship, which led to their eventual marriage. Which surprised both in another way. Eileen was a country girl who loved the woods. Her father was a professor at Cornell, and she describes herself as coming from a structured, ordered, engineering type world. “Math and science were my things,” she says.

“I colored in the lines.”

Jay was entirely opposite. He is a creative person who sees the world differently, always contemplating two or three ideas at the same time. He was a city kid—born in Queens and raised in Yonkers.

Eileen was attracted to Jay’s love of learning, his sense of wonder about the world, and his fascination with imagination. “Finding someone who purposely colors outside the lines was sort of liberating,” she says. Always the problem solver, inventor, and entrepreneur, Jay founded Priceline.com among other businesses and is head of Walker Digital in Stamford.

For Jay’s part, Eileen wasn’t like any of the other girls he grew up with, adding: “She had beautiful long hair, and she pretended to like my books.”

They will celebrate 38 years of marriage on April 18, or what Jay calls “tax plus three.”

When they moved to Ridgefield to be closer to Jay’s office, Eileen had been commuting to her HR job with IBM. She took a leave of absence to “do the mom thing.” She was about to go back to work when a friend asked her to be co-president of the newly opening Branchville school. That’s when she discovered an opportunity to grow. Now, Eileen is chair of the RVNAhealth board and has had her hands full during the COVID-19 health crises. She says they “practice what they preach,” both at the RVNA and at home with Jay. The Walkers even used a video conferencing site to hold a family reunion.

Jay calls Ridgefield a very family-friendly town and especially likes “the locally sourced chocolate-covered graham crackers.” He adds, “And my wife is happy here.”

Eileen and Jay are the well-deserving honorees for the 2020 Hope H. Swenson Visionary Award at Great Expectations, the library’s signature benefit, postponed from May to November. They support numerous town organizations with time and talent.

Find the Fake More than 200 people took part in our Fake Ad Contest in the May/June issue.

Congratulations to everyone who picked Planting Pants. The winner, selected randomly from a list of all those who entered and provided the correct answer, is Mac Rand. to an area business.

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Innovative Teaching.

Exceptional Education.

Always Connected.

www.ridgefieldacademy.org

At Ridgefield Academy, imaginations flourish and academic excellence takes root. Supported by exceptional faculty, students are both encouraged and challenged, expanding the boundaries of their capabilities.

Learn why Ridgefield Academy is the #1 choice for K-8 Education. www.ridgefieldacademy.org/exceptionalK8

Ridgefield Academy, 223 West Mountain Road, Ridgefield, CT

Ten Minutes With // CHILDREN’S BOOKS FOR PANDEMICS CREATOR

Stefanie Trilling

didn’t intend to “go viral.” But that’s exactly what

happened when this lawyer by training and mom of two young children started painting children’s book covers

I think I’ve tapped into a shared experience. People across the globe are going through this together, and I’ve created a common thread by using a method of communication that almost everyone connects with: children’s books.

It is. I feel so proud. I get messages all the time from people who tell me that these paintings give them something to look forward to.

It’s given my daughter a crash course in parody! She’s learned about using language, writing stories, and thinking about what words mean and sound like. She’s painted some of her own covers, too.

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My family lives very close to a number of major hospitals. In the early days of the pandemic, my five-year-old daughter and twoyear-old son asked a lot of questions when they’d hear sirens and see ambulances pass by. To distract them as much as possible, I began saying “yes” to projects I sometimes said “no” to because of the mess. One day we were painting and I started painting the characters in Mo Willems’ Elephant and Piggie Biggie, which was laying on a nearby table. I started painting the

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characters but I also started painting the coronavirus, too. My daughter asked what I was painting and I said, “Oh, I think this is the coronavirus.” It paved way for a discussion about the pandemic in a totally serendipitous fashion.

Yes, and that’s why I call it a “happy accident.” I started posting my paintings on Facebook, and then my friends became interested and shared them, and then their friends shared them...

This situation has given my family an opportunity to re-center in ways we never would have had the opportunity to do. It’s allowed me to realize what’s really important and essential. In a post-pandemic society, everyone has an opportunity to re-write their story.

I want to show my work, and donate a percentage of it to charity.

I definitely want to publish a book. This has given me a platform to do good.

I L L U S T R AT I O N S / / S T E F A N I E T R I L L I N G

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Sell Time BUYING, SELLING, AND RENOVATING A HOME DURING A GLOBAL PANDEMIC

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HAIL, HALE NAVY! The front door of this Twin Ridge Georgian colonial is painted with Benjamin Moore’s timeless hue Hale Navy, setting the tone for the Motta’s sophisticated yet inviting lifestyle.

July/August 2020 //

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O

UR OFFER HAS BEEN ACCEPTED. If all goes as planned, we’ll close on March 15 and can move in

by May 1,” my husband Joe announced over a picture-perfect lunch at The Inn at Pound Ridge. It was Valentine’s Day, and life was beautiful. We clinked glasses and spent the remainder of lunch discussing renovation ideas for the new house, a gorgeous, white Georgian colonial on Twin Ridge Road. It was our dream house; we’d fallen in love at our first showing with realtor Karla Murtaugh.

Of course, nothing would go as planned. Who could’ve predicted that less than a month later a pandemic would have gripped the entire globe?

We immediately put our charming yellow cape at 30 Silver Spring Road on the market. Though there was activity in the first few weeks, we didn’t receive an offer. On March 7, our toddler developed a low-grade fever that lasted longer than a week. We couldn’t help but wonder if a potential buyer brought germs into the house. Acting with an abundance of caution, we suspended in-person showings until we moved.

The closing of our new home took place virtually on May 15.

Joe, donning a mask and gloves, drove to the office of attorneys Donnelly, McNamara & Gustafson, P.C. He slid the documents under the office door while Rex Gustafson waited on the other side. It was unusual and strange, but it was our reality.

Contractor Bob Frulla immediately began demolition on the second floor while A. Leo’s Painting began working on the first floor. Everyone wore masks, and every move was consciously coordinated. Interior designer Mariah K. Murphy met us to review tile and paint samples, and Karla resumed showings at our Silver Spring Road house, requiring all who entered to wear a mask, booties, and gloves.

Global pandemic considered; everything went well. In just a few short weeks, we had renovated three bathrooms, painted nearly the entire house, installed a bluestone patio, refinished all wood floors throughout, and created a fitness studio in the barn. Of course, there are always lessons to be learned. Here are ten things I wish I’d known.

Choose a “rockstar” realtor. Karla Murtaugh of Karla Murtaugh Homes is one of the most well-connected and hardworking people in Ridgefield. Her intelligence on all things Ridgefield is astounding. She listened to what we were looking for in a new home and sent us potential listings that checked all our boxes. Touring homes with Karla is like walking with an architect, interior designer and realtor in one – and to top it off,

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July/August 2020

ARTFUL LIVING Hanging piece of art created by Sarah’s childhood friend Katy Ferrarone. “It joins together the kaleidoscope of colors in the room,” says Sarah.

SOMETHING OLD, SOMETHING NEW Pictured at left is the Motta’s former Silver Spring Road home. At right, their new Twin Ridge home.

July/August 2020 //

37

she’s absolutely lovely. Selling a home with her could not be easier. The ShowingTime app she utilizes makes the scheduling process seamless for both agents and sellers.

Hire a local interior designer to source samples and help make big decisions. I called on longtime friend and fantastic interior designer Mariah K. Murphy to assist me with many decisions. Her brilliant “eye” combined with her Fairfield County expertise was exactly what I needed. She has a phenomenal familiarity with tiles, and willingly visited multiple stores across Fairfield County to source tile samples for our master bath. She encouraged us to paint the front door Benjamin Moore’s “Hale Navy” - a great call! I consulted with her on artwork, and she referred to lighting fixtures as the “jewels of the home,” which inspired us to select an amazing white and gold globe chandelier

by Serena & Lily for our foyer.

Residents with hard water, this one’s for you: order chrome faucets and hardware. I ordered brushed nickel everything and had to return it all, which is an inconvenience even in “normal” times. According to Bob Frulla, brushed nickel tarnishes and turns green over time. In fact, he’s had to return to homes to replace fixtures and drains that turned green due to hard water.

Pandemic or not, some furniture will ship quickly, while others

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July/August 2020

will take longer. One caveat: make sure you have a dry place to store furniture during renovations.

Measure your kitchen hardware from hole-to-hole, multiple times. Count and re-count every knob and door pull needed. We measured incorrectly and had to return ALL hardware.

We always try to shop local, but neither Ridgefield Hardware nor Ridgefield Supply Company had the quantity we needed.

Joe fearlessly embarked upon Home Depot in a mask and gloves, using FaceTime to “show” me the available options.

If you think you may want to remove wall-to-wall carpeting, do it during renovations. Trust us, it’s a messy and smelly process. We decided to do it two weeks into the renovation process, which set us back a week. Still, we’re very glad we did it.

Choose where to splurge. Moving from a cape to a colonial meant larger bathrooms, closets and bedrooms. We saved on many spots, but splurged on our master bath. We opted for custom quartz counter tops, beautiful tiles, radiant heated floors, an extra-long soaking tub, and a Japanese toilet with heated seats.

Invest in artwork that brings you joy! My childhood friend from Darien, Katy Ferrarone, is a very talented artist whose work is currently available at Voltz Clarke Gallery in Manhattan. I knew she’d have the perfect piece for our living room, and

resources Realtor Karla Murtaugh Homes Mortgage Terry, Total Mortgage Home Inspection Michael Carnicelli, Carnell’s Real Estate Attorney Rex Gustafson, Donnelly, McNamara & Gustafson, P.C. General Contractor Bob Frulla Painting A Leo’s Painting Patio Tile Lynne Ballard Tiles Jackie, Darien International Tiles Interior Design Mariah K. Murphy I was right. Plus, it’s good karma to support friends and local businesses!

Seek out estate sales, and embrace moving as an opportunity to purge old items. Estate sales are great local resources for buying furniture, and many companies even post inventory on their websites. Dana Bucci of Bluebird Estate Sales managed the estate sale at our new home. We had “first dibs” since we were the buyers, and we also found beautiful items at Dana’s warehouse in Georgetown, CT, which is available by appointment. Donate clothes, furniture, and more to The Ridgefield Thrift Shop, which donates proceeds to dozens of local charities. Goodwill is also a great spot for donations and has many drop-off locations throughout the area.

Don’t hesitate to lean on family and friends throughout the process. My mom has been a guiding light through major milestones. Sadly, yet understandably, she and my stepfather were sheltered-at-home in Portsmouth, NH, during this move.

They still provided tremendous support, through calls, texts, and Facetime chats. (Thank you, Mom and Fred!)

Ridgefield resident Sarah Stabile-Motta is the founder of public relations and marketing agency Hi-Impact Communications.

Community involvement and philanthropic efforts are essential to Sarah and her husband, Joe.

Furniture Dana, Bluebird Estate Sales

PORCHTRAIT The Motta family memorialized this unprecedented time with a front porch portrait. Below, Sarah and her designer, Mariah K. Murphy, review samples.

Resilient Ridgefield LOCAL BUSINESSES ADAPT IN THE FACE OF A PANDEMIC

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LBERT EINSTEIN SAID, “You can’t solve a problem on the same level that it was created. You have to rise above it to the next level.”

Innumerable local businesses did just that when faced with the incomprehensible COVID-19 pandemic. Longtime businesses were forced to reinvent themselves, and new businesses had to quickly pivot.

Restaurants quickly shifted to take-out only.

Some offered free delivery, while others offered curbside pick-up. Genoa Deli + Pizza’s “family bundle” meals were a huge hit, as were Gallo’s prixfixe family meals, which afforded diners a more formal meal at home. TerraSole, Barn Door, Posa, and countless others continued offering take-out, and Wooster Hollow Café’s owner Ron Herman offered a free breakfast and lunch to locals out of work or without an income. Creativity was seen everywhere; 805 Degrees offered pizza kits, Prime Taco and Baja Cocina offered taco kits, and Heibeck’s Stand offered ice-cream-sundae kits. By May 5th, it was apparent that locals were desperate to return to pre-pandemic habits when Tequila Escape and Southwest Café reported a huge influx of orders.

“We had invested in a valet service prior to all this,” says BMW of Ridgefield owner Ed McGill, referring to the dealership’s offering to drop off a loaner and pickup a customer’s car from home or office. “It makes people much more comfortable getting their car serviced.” BMW trained the staff to facilitate sales by phone and to conduct virtual tours of the cars. “We are learning as we go,” says McGill. As a result the reduction in sales compared to pre-COVID months has greatly improved, and they will only be down 25 percent in May compared to a year ago, versus more than 60 percent in March. “Many of these new practices are going to stick, so some good will come out of this.”

Some retailers like Miss Confident Boutique had to quickly build e-commerce sites to facilitate online shopping. Audrey Road embraced Instagram, sharing photos of new items daily and directing the Instagram audience to their online shopping platform, and Ridgefield Running Company offered virtual sneaker fittings. Books on the Commons owner Ellen Burns credits much of their ability to stay afloat to signing up for Bookshop.org, a new online buying platform dedicated to supporting independent bookstores, back in January. “The founders of Bookshop had no idea that it would become a lifeline for many bookstores. We started selling on the site in late March and it really helped cushion the blow of COVID-19” said Burns. The retailer also partnered with ACT of CT for a co-sponsored, virtual story time, during which ACT of CT cast members read classic picture books.

Main Street’s RPAC Gallery overcame enormous challenges, too. “How do you create a viewing

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AROUND TOWN Interior Designer Abigal Braden leaves a “care package” of design samples on a client’s doorstep. BMW

experience when your doors are not open?” asked others found alternative ways to reach their stuowner Dee Dee Colabella. Thankfully for RPAC dents. Judy Hirt-Manheimer, owner of EnchantGallery, talented and innovative employees like John ed Garden Studios, posted live music, art, and Fallon rose to the challenge, quickly building a fulscience classes to their Facebook page twice a social distancing. Nora ly-interactive “virtual gallery” complete with detailed week. Noah Manheimer, who has taught cooking Carcelén puts on a descriptions of all the artwork and the ability for to Enchanted Garden Preschool’s students for “front porch concert.” collectors to make purchases. two decades, began creating cooking videos at RPAC Gallery’s virtual With social distancing protocols in place, there was home with his two daughters. The response was little hope for high-touch businesses in the health and so great that he plans to launch a new YouTube home experience. wellness industries. Susi Laura Massage stayed in touch channel dedicated to cooking. with many of their clients, and encouraged at-home Stay-at-home orders did not halt performancmassage by sharing instructional massage videos via social channels. es for Ridgefield Suzuki School (RSS) students, as they’ve “Small businesses are the heart and soul of Ridgefield, and locals taken part in solo recitals and group concerts via Zoom. Nora have been doing their part to help us stay afloat,” said owner Susi Carcelén, age 7, excelled with virtual classes and has enjoyed Laura Manheimer. performing “front porch concerts,” an initiative encouraged by And it’s not just businesses with physical locations that have RSS owner Jessica McNamara. Nora’s mom, Cameron Cole been impacted. Interior designer Abigail Braden, owner of Carcelén, says she is committed to the school for the long haul, August Interiors, began making “care packages” of client materieven if classes are virtual. “RSS has an amazing community, als when it became apparent that in-person meetings would be wonderful teachers, and we love the Suzuki Method.” paused. “I’d include samples like fabrics, tiles, and paint colors as The Golf Performance Center was able to continue coaching well as drafts of floor plans and renderings, and we’d review evthanks to their Junior Golf Hub, the online platform through erything on the phone or via Zoom,” said Braden. Molly Hirsch, which members can view their workouts, reach out to coaches, of Molly Hirsch Interiors, saw an increase in clients signing up update their resume, and more. “We immediately clicked into for single design consultations when –all of a sudden—they ‘software mode,’ which was hugely helpful for our junior and adult were home all the time. “People are realizing they want to live academy members,” said founder Roger Knick. “We continued in their homes differently, and the inquiries we have had for holding group sessions, just like at the academy.” While tennew projects reflect that. They still want a pretty space, but they year-old junior member Arabella Lopez said she misses in-person want their home to support their daily lives better,” said Hirsch. coaching, she said the GPC team is doing a great job making sure While many children’s activities were paused or postponed, everyone has the tools needed to succeed. “We still do strength

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training and things like running— they’ll say ‘do two laps around your house,’ which is funny,” Lopez said. “If I have to ask my coaches if my form is correct, I can just show them through a Google Hangout,” Lopez continued.

The area’s rich arts community remains optimistic. ACT of CT quickly launched ACT’s “Happy Hour,” during which the theatre’s founders Daniel C. Levine, Bryan Perri, and Katie Diamond play host to Broadway icons (and “friends of ACT of CT”). Guests have included Tony Award winners Christian Borle, Lindsay Mendez, Jessica Vosk and Derek Klena. Artistic Director Daniel C. Levine said, “We are committed to our audience, our patrons, and to this town and if our livestreams are bringing people joy, laughter, and a bit of relief during this time then we feel as though we are doing our job well!” Past ACT “Happy Hour” shows have attracted over 65,000 viewers from as far away as Chile, Brazil, and Germany.

The Ridgefield Playhouse looks forward to welcoming guests back for two new movie series starting June 24. While fans will have to wait longer for live shows, their designation as a movie theatre will allow them to open, albeit with new seating requirements. “We’ve planned for socially distanced seating, where everyone will be at least six-feet away from one another,” said Executive Director Allison Stockell. “Since we’re a 500-seat theatre, even with these adjustments we can still accommodate 150 people.” Family movies that are free for children will be shown on Wednesdays at 2 p.m. beginning on June 24, with movies including Shrek, The LEGO Movie, and How to Train Your Dragon. Friday nights will be all about the music, with rock-related movies ranging from documentaries to epic concerts being shown weekly at 8:30 p.m. Titles include Rocket Man, Linda Ronstadt: The Sound of My Voice, and of course “Mr. Born in the USA” Bruce Springsteen: Western Stars will be kicking off July 4th weekend on July 3rd.

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Introducing The Batcherita!

It’s how Litchfield Distillery crafts a classic Margarita. We imported agave syrup from Mexico then fermented and distilled it right here at the distillery. Perfectly blended with agave spirits, lime juice, agave syrup and orange flavor, the Batcherita is full of authentic flavor and sure to make a big splash this summer. Grab some today!

Available where Litchfield Distillery spirits are sold.

©2020 Litchfield Distillery, Litchfield, CT 7% Alc/Vol Please Sip Responsibly

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GET OUT

BY LAND, BY SEA, OR BY TREE, HEAD OUT INTO NATURE

We seek adventure.

We seek nature. As outdoor enthusiasts, my family is always looking for the next thrill. The sights, sounds, and scents of nature envelop our senses, leading us to chart endless paths. Hiking and immersing ourselves in the local landscape is a passion of ours. The area offers so many trails to enjoy. Here are the spots we deem to be among the greatest in the state.

Go chasing waterfalls You don’t have to fly to the Caribbean to be captivated by waterfalls. Connecticut offers many, with the nearest being Kent Falls State Park in Litchfield Hills. Wander across the quaint covered bridge, hike a steep but rewarding quarter mile path up to the top, and feel the mist on your face as water rushes 250 feet down into a reflecting pool that joins the Housatonic River. My family’s favorite is Seven Falls Park (Higganum).

The challenge of it all lies amongst the boulders you have to climb, and in the narrow vegetation growing within its paths. It’s deemed one of the harder hikes in the state, but it’s so very worth the trek when you find yourself taking in breathtaking views, high above the trees. Another great adventure is Wadsworth Falls State Park (Middletown and Middlefield). It’s a peaceful park with multiple trails.

A shore thing Over 300 miles of Connecticut’s coastline hugs the shore of Long Island Sound and the Atlantic Ocean, affording endless opportunities for outdoor exploring. We find refuge walking along the Shoreline Greenway Trail in Madison, which passes right through Hammonasset Beach State Park.

Hammonasset is by far one of the state’s biggest assets for nature aficionados,

Lindsay’s daughter, Annalise, searching for “treasures” on the Madison shoreline. Finley admiring the beauty of Hamonasset State Park, also in Madison.

with sights to be treasured and birding beyond anyone’s imagination. While there, visit the Meigs Point Nature Center for fun year-round programming like nature walks, animals including turtles, snakes, lizards and more, and a seasonal “touch tank” boasting sea critters right from Long Island Sound.

Closer to Ridgefield is Westport’s Sherwood Island State Park, where locals flock for 234 acres of beaches, wetlands and woodlands.

Find solace amongst the trees Ridgefield is home to countless parks, from Bennetts Pond State Park and Seth Low Pierrepont State Park to the Ridgefield Rail Trail and Weir Farm National Historic Site. But outside our borders are numerous gems. Navigating Devils Hopyard State Park (East Haddam), Sleeping Giant State Park (Hamden), Cockaponset State Forest, and the Mattabesett Trail (covering towns in both New Haven and Middlesex Counties) provides new adventures for all hikers. These trails boast endless beauty, and the views will leave you in awe of our topography, adding to the gratitude we already have for our “Nutmeg State” landscape. A great resource is the Connecticut Forest and Park Association, an incredible non-profit making many of Connecticut’s trails possible. We love the Blue-Blazed trails due to their dedication to maintaining these footpaths, making them accessible for all of us to enjoy.

IN THE HEIGHTS Linsday’s son, CJ, and daughter, Annalise, descending from a hike at Devil’s Hopyard State Park in East Haddam, CT.

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July/August 2020

The Last Shot

Looking Back THE COUNTRY CLUB OF RIDGEFIELD’s clubhouse had a strange life. Built in earliest golf courses. Young caddies are seen lounging on the steps in this

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July/August 2020

PHOTO // COURTESY JACK SANDERS

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