Ridgefield Magazine | September/October, 2020

Ridgefield MAGAZINE

RIDGEFIELD MAGAZINE

SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2020

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The Westy Guarantee…

WESTY guarantees that a Customer’s rent will not be increased for two years from the Agreement date.

WESTY guarantees your total satisfaction. If you are not totally satisfied for any reason within the first seven days of signing your Agreement, Westy will refund all your money and void your Agreement.

DOUGLAS FOULKE

WESTY guarantees that there will not be a registration or administration fee.

CAN YOU BELIEVE it’s been over five months since we pressed the pause button on life as we knew it? That’s absolutely mind-boggling to me. Our community has definitely been challenged, but a bright spot is witnessing the ways locals have responded to adversity with kindness, generosity, and teamwork.

Keeler Tavern

Museum

Thankfully September and October afford plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities. Apple picking, hikes, backyard grilling, afternoons at Martin Park beach, visits to pumpkin patches, and continued al fresco dining make these months shine.

With this issue, we’re excited to expand distribution to Redding, our neighboring town that is also rich with outdoor locales like Saugatuck Falls, Devil’s Den, and Topstone Beach.

Speaking of Redding, in this issue we learn about Redding’s “kid ninja next door.” We spotlight incredible local interior designers, dive into the world of hard cider, explore RV travel, and more.

As summer turns to fall and we’re forced to continue navigating situations we never imagined, may we continue to lift each other up, since we truly are stronger together. I hope you enjoy a safe, laughter-filled “endless summer” season. And don’t forget, we are all essential.

and History Center 152 Main Street Ridgefield, Connecticut enjoy 300 years of history on four beautiful acres

——Amanda Duff

Excellence in Real Estate A passion for excellence, a strong work ethic and a commitment to getting the job done is the foundation upon which I have built my career as a full time realtor.

187 Umpawaug Road, Redding | $19,000,000 | 7 Bed, 6/3 Bath 2QH KRXU IURP 1<& 0DSOH +LOO )DUP LV D PDJQL¿FHQW FRXQWU\ HVWDWH WXFNHG DZD\ RQ QHDUO\ DFV $ OX[XULRXV UHWUHDW VHOI VXVWDLQLQJ ZRUNLQJ IDUP 7KH PDLQ UHVLGHQFH LV D PXOWL IDFHWHG FRXQWU\ PDQRU EOHQGLQJ FRQWHPSRUDU\ VW\OH ZLWK XQULYDOHG DPHQLWLHV $GGLWLRQDO IHDWXUHV RI WKH SURSHUW\ LQFOXGH DQWLTXH JXHVW KRPHV VWDWH RI WKH DUW SULYDWH UHFRUGLQJ VWXGLR SHUIRUPLQJ DUWV YHQXH SRRO WHQQLV FRXUW ZRUNLQJ EDUQ VWDOOV SDGGRFNV ULGLQJ ULQJ ULGLQJ KLNLQJ WUDLOV VXJDU KRXVH ERDW KRXVH RUFKDUG VWRFNHG SRQG

85 Diamond Hill Road, Redding | $2,500,000 | 5 Bed, 5/2 Bath 0HWLFXORXVO\ SUHVHUYHG UHVWRUHG FRXQWU\ FRPSRXQG 7KH %HQMDPLQ 0HHNHU +RPH LV PLOHV WR 1<& SULYDWH DFV DORQJ VFHQLF 6DXJDWXFN 5LYHU ERUGHUHG E\ DFV RI FRQVHUYDQF\ ODQG 0DJQL¿FHQW JURXQGV LQFO IUHH IRUP *XQLWH SRRO WHQQLV FRXUW SHUHQQLDO JDUGHQV PDWXUH WUHHV VZHHSLQJ ODZQV H[SDQVLYH VWRQH ZDOOV WHUUDFHV VWUHDP SRQG ZDWHUIDOO 5HPDUNDEOH HVWDWH ZLWK H[FHSWLRQDO SHULRG GHWDLOV PHUJHG VHDPOHVVO\ ZLWK PRGHUQ XSGDWHV RXWEXLOGLQJV GHGLFDWHG Rä&#x2C6;²FH VSDFH VSHFWDFXODU EDUQ ZLWK OHYHOV RI OLYLQJ UHF VSDFH

15 Thankful Bradley Road, Redding | $1,395,000 | 5 Bed, 5/1 Bath /LIHVW\OH ORFDWLRQ ([FHSWLRQDO FHQWHU KDOO FRORQLDO SHUIHFWO\ VLWXDWHG DW WKH HQG RI D FXO GH VDF RQ SULYDWH DFUHV LQ VRXJKW DIWHU )DUYLHZ )DUP ZLWK SRRO WHQQLV FOXEKRXVH 2YHU . LQ TXDOLW\ LPSURYHPHQWV DQG XSJUDGHV 6WXQQLQJ FKHI¶V NLWFKHQ VSHFWDFXODU JUHDW URRP ZLWK FRä&#x2C6;±HU FHLOLQJ IDEXORXV PDVWHU EHGURRP VXLWH ZLWK FR]\ VLWWLQJ URRP ZLWK ¿UHSODFH ¿QLVKHG ORZHU OHYHO ZLWK IXOO EDWK H[SDQVLYH VWRQH SDWLR 3URSHUW\ H[WHQGV WR WRZQ RI 5HGGLQJ RSHQ VSDFH DQG :HVWRQ¶V 'HYLOV 'HQ SUHVHUYH

8 Longmeadow Lane, Redding | $875,000 | 4 Bed, 4/2 Bath (VFDSH WR WKH FRXQWU\ DQG ZRUN IURP KRPH LQ OX[XU\ FRPIRUW 7KLV H[FHSWLRQDO &RORQLDO LV PDMHVWLFDOO\ VLWHG RQ DFV DW WKH HQG RI D FXO GH VDF LQ D GHVLUDEOH VXEGLYLVLRQ RI SUHHPLQHQW KRPHV $ VRSKLVWLFDWHG HOHJDQW LQWHULRU ZLWK DQ DEXQGDQFH RI VRIW QDWXUDO OLJKW DQG DQ LGHDO OLYLQJ DQG HQWHUWDLQLQJ Ã&#x20AC;RZ 1LQH IRRW FHLOLQJV D JUDQLWH FKHUU\ FKHI¶V NLWFKHQ VXPSWXRXV PDVWHU EHGURRP VXLWH GHGLFDWHG Rä&#x2C6;²FH DUHDV ¿UHSODFHV EXWWHUÃ&#x20AC;\ VWDLUFDVH DQG IRXU H[SDQVLYH YHUDQGDV WR VLW DQG HQMR\ WKH VZHHSLQJ YLHZV

Roni Agress | 203.733.2656 ragress@williampitt.com | RoniAgress.williampitt.com $%5 *5, &HUWL¿HG 5HORFDWLRQ 6SHFLDOLVW *ROG $ZDUG 3URGXFHU R I D G E F I E L D / R E D D I N G B R O K E R A G E | 4 7 0 M A I N S T R E E T | 2 0 3 . 4 3 8 . 9 5 3 1 | W I L L I A M P I T T. C O M BEIJING |

W E S T C H E S T E R | R I D G E F I E L D / R E D D I N G | M A N H AT TA N | L O N D O N Each Office is Independently Owned and Operated.

Contents

CON TE N TS // S E P / OC T 2 0 2 0

features

46

The Year of the RV It’s no surprise recreational vehicles are having a “moment” - they offer endless perks when traveling during a pandemic. Editor Amanda Duff shares the ins and outs of RV travel.

By AmAndA duff

50

Fall in Love With Cider Bridget Shirvell dives into boozy and local spots making excellent varieties of cider.

By Bridget Shirvell

54

Designer Spotlight talented interior designers! Six

50 Endless Summer Escapes //

Play tourist within our great state with an escape to The

boasts recently renovated rooms by famed designer Celer Water’s Edge Resort and Page 21 6 //

September/October 2020

favorite space.

PhotogrAPhS

BydouglAS

foulke

24

The Ninja Next Door Michael Sherman of Redding, one is struck by his direct gaze and warm personality. It might not occur to the casual observer that this bespectacled, intellectually curious preteen is already a bona By megAn Smith-hArriS

It‘s not easy projecting yourself in the future.

But one day, you‘ll be in it. Which is why, from day one, we help make sure you‘re ready throughout your life. That way, you have the tomorrow and for generations to come. Talk to your UBS Financial Advisor today, with an eye on tomorrow.

For some of life’s questions, you’re not

THE RIDGEFIELD

Contents

CONTENTS CONTINUED

PLAYHOUSE

Non-profit 501 (C) (3)

WORLD MUSIC SERIES

46

54 44

HOLLYWOOD CLASSICS RETURN TO THE BIG SCREEN!

departments JULY 1 @ 7PM

16 We’ve Got Answers Farmers’ markets and the orange

42 Ten Minutes With Legendary composer Alan Menken

19 The Vibe

Vows amidst a pandemic; the

JULY 19 @ 4PM

Daniel Perreira America’s evolving palate; Trout River; and more.

SEPTEMBER 14 @ 7PM

40 The World Is Waiting A look at some area private

schools and trends in education

DECEMBER 14 @ 7PM 203.438.5795 • RIDGEFIELDPLAYHOUSE.ORG

8 //

September/October 2020

44 How We Met 62 Out & About Diversity Film Series, Hummock Island Oyster Tours, Ambler Farm, Katonah Museum of Art, and more.

64 The Last Shot

Mike Anderson 203.770.3349

Jack Baldaserini 203.788.4040

Peri Bartro 203.240.5919

Susan Bryant 203.257.6881

Keira Cottrell 917.476.8915

Carole Cousins 203.241.0277

Kim Cuniberti 203.733.6976

Tim Dent 203.470.5605

Donna DiBartolo 203.858.0597

Margi Esten 203.241.8453

Joan Florczak 203.615.4913

John Frey 203.240.0624

Grace Fuschetto 203.241.6835

Kathy Gaisser 203.788.0063

Debbie Gore 203.417.5692

Joanne Grasso 203.733.9344

Jefferson Guthrie 203.788.9400

Carol Hanlon 203.240.1233

George Hanlon 203.240.1234

Deb Haws 203.241.7977

Sharon Hoverman 203.733.5073

Charlie Knoche 203.731.7770

Maureen Kozlark 203.733.8823

Jodi Langford 203.733.8804

Carissa McMahon 203.442.4159

Art Meyer 203.240.6304

Rosanne LoSchiavo 203.733.1433

Courtney Martin 203.917.2700

Paul Ogden 203.942.9519

Award winning REALTORS® representing Ridgefield and Redding through years of experience, dedication to our clients and historical knowledge.

Contact one of our accomplished REALTORS® today!

Kenn/Betsy Olbrych Anne Scott 203.733.4796 203.526.0697

Joseph Porricelli Branch Vice President

Lonnie Shapiro 203.731.7722

Marilyn Sloper 203.770.6240

Julie Yi 203.722.3889

COLDWELLBANKERHOMES.COM

203.515.6310 Joe.Porricelli@ColdwellBankerMoves.com

Ridgefield Office 398 Main Street, Ridgefield, CT 06877 | 203.438.9000 Redding/Weston Satellite Office 16 Old Mill Road, Redding, CT 06896 | 203.544.9591 Real estate agents affiliated with Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage are independent contractor agents and are not employees of the Company. ©2020 Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage. All Rights Reserved. Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act. Owned by a subsidiary of NRT LLC. Coldwell Banker and the Coldwell Banker Logo are registered service marks owned by Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC.

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behind the scenes SEP / OCT 2020

Ridgefield BRIDGET SHIRVELL is a freelance writer based in Bronx, NY, and Mystic, CT. Bridget covers food, travel, technology and the environment, and her work has appeared in Martha Stewart Living, NY Times, VICE, Condé Nast Traveler, and more. In this issue, Bridget dives into the world of hard cider.

She enjoys exploring new places through their food, dreaming about the beach, and having fun with her husband, toddler daughter, and golden retriever.

Vol 18, Issue 5 Sep/Oct 2020

AMANDA DUFF

Editor-in-Chief and Publisher

DEBORAH HAYN

Creative Director

DOUGLAS FOULKE & ANN DAHLGREN have been a photographic team for more than 20 years. Doug’s work has been published in Vanity Fair, Harper’s Bazaar, GQ, and Esquire. The two co-photographed the book A Fairy’s Child, published by Harry N. Abrams. They photographed and styled our interior design spotlight. Their work has been published worldwide and has received several editorial and advertising awards.

ALANA TAYLOR

Editorial Assistant

KIM ZEISS

Operations Manager

SHARON PECK

MEGAN SMITH-HARRIS is an award-winning writer, filmmaker, and playwright. Her career encompasses documentary, television, film, theatre, radio, publishing, public speaking, and teaching. She has helmed multiple long-form, critically acclaimed documentaries that have aired around the globe and is president/owner of Pyewackitt Productions.

Megan enjoys her role as the Festival Director of the Ridgefield Independent Film Festival (RIFF).

KATE WARK is a Ridgefield-based photographer driven by a love of storytelling, capturing authentic connections and Fairfield County, which she has called home for 8 years. In this issue, Kate visited Hardscrabble Cider for our “Fall in Love With Cider” story. Kate balances a busy photography business with another passion, her role as executive vice president at Impact PR & Communications in New York’s Hudson Valley.

10 //

September/October 2020

Production Manager

Contributing Writers

Contributing Photographers EDITORIAL

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ShoutOut

This, that, and the other things

Hoot, hoot!

DRUMROLL PLEASE Instead of re-opening in October with Freaky Friday musical of the 2020/2021 season will be…

This two-person musical will star ACT of CT’s Executive Director Katie Diamond and Artistic Director Daniel C. Levine. Bryan Perri, ACT’s Resident Music Supervisor, will music direct the show. “This powerful and funny gem of a musical has been on ACT’s ‘short list’ for quite some time. Perhaps you musical starring Anna Kendrick and Jeremy Jordan?” said Artistic Director Levine. “Given the current situation, The Last Five Years seems like the perfect show to begin our third season. We can’t wait to invite audiences back to ACT! We are taking every precaution to ensure that everyone feels safe.

And, we are creating “alternate” ways to ensure that everyone can view this production. We can’t wait to raise the curtain on October 28.

Visit actofct.org for more info.

14 //

September/October 2020

Ridgefielders have spotted lots of wildlife recently! Woodcock Nature Center’s educator, Jennifer Bradshaw, explained the increase in sightings.

“While we’ve seen an increase in bird nesting, many of the sightings are the result of nature being able to “take back what’s theirs.” Less people out and about mean they’re able to move around more freely” said Bradshaw.

Visit ridgefieldmagazine.com for our new “Ask Ms. Jen” column. Send YOUR wildlife questions to editor@ ridgefieldmagazine.com.

Wonderful Weir Farm

A move is afoot to re-designate Weir Farm National Historic Site as Weir Farm National Historic Park. Representative Jim Himes testiings as well as a vast collection of American art, -

Lots of Laughs Harvard-trained orthodontist by day, author of novels, screenplays, and stand-up comorthodontist Dr. Blaine Langberg describes his

novel that combines side-splitting humor with a layman’s guide to

lestine Prophecy!” will host a virtual book launch on September 15th at 7PM. is available at

Ira Joe Fisher’s newest book, Wide and Wavy Out of Salamanca, is a beautiful collection of essays rising from a life engaged with noticing the world he has traveled and the world where he began. You’ll delight in his observances and eloquent vocabulary, savoring every word. Our world is a fascinating place and Fisher is fascinated by it. Available at Books on the Common.

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we’ve got answers What local farmers’ markets are open this fall?

Ridgefield Travel and

»

THE WILTON Farmers’ Market will continue Wednesdays from 12-5PM through October 28th at the Wilton Historical Society.

Vendors include Dani’s Pantry, Beldotti Bakery, The Prospector Theater, Bubble & Brew, and more.

John Jay Homestead’s Farm Market, in Katonah, will also continue through October. Taking place every Saturday, vendors include Amba Farm, The Blue Pig, Red Jacket Orchards, Red Barn Bakery, Picklelicious, and more.

In other food news, Ridgefield’s West Lane Inn is now serving breakfast on its picturesque and historic porch and lawn. Locals and visitors alike may enjoy coffee, pastries, fresh fruit, and other hot and cold items from 8-10:30AM daily. Innkeepers Danille Petrie and Christine Carnicelli kindly request that you

call ahead to make a reservation.

203.438.7323.

Nod Hill Brewery will continue welcoming guests to its pop-up biergarten through September, possibly later. In addition to their cold brews, guests can order from food trucks and enjoy a variety of live music and special events. Prost!

What’s the story with the orange tree?

»

IN OUR HOLIDAY, 2019 issue we shared the story of the blue tree in the yard of a home on Wilton Road West. Last year, upon learning of the birch tree’s fatal illness from local tree expert Todd

PHOTOS // AMANDA DUFF

Forest, the van Wees family was inspired to paint the tree blue thanks to New Zealand-based artist Konstantin Dimopoulos. Dimopoulos paints live trees blue to bring attention to their beauty while raising awareness about deforestation. “Our son Simon liked the idea and helped me prep the tree, and I simply painted it with a roller,” said David van Wees. No doubt, the van Weeses blue birch brought joy to many passersby.

Fast forward a year, and the tree is now painted orange in support of frontline workers. “We were inspired by the orange ribbons around town and wanted to thank the courageous folks who work so hard to keep us healthy and safe” said van Wees.

They painted it themselves, and even had help from friends, including a three-year-old whose favorite color is orange. “It was a family effort.”

September/October 2020 //

17

every box

has a story

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Faces + Places

[ SEP !

[ OCT !

Vows That Wowed

Not Even a Pandemic Delayed This Coupleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Vows

By AmAndA duff

JUST MARRIED Amanda Kirwan Starbuck and Trey McHugh Hanlan embrace in front of the iconic Cass Gilbert Fountain.

P H O T O / / N AT U R A L E X P R E S S I O N S N Y

September/October 2020 //

19

Faces + Places

››

NOTHING could stop Amanda Kirwan Starbuck and Thomas “Trey” McHugh Hanlan from celebrating their marriage on June 13th, not even a global pandemic. The couple, who met in Nantucket during the summer of 2017 and became engaged less than two years later, received smiles and cheers from passersby as they boarded a horse-drawn carriage for the ride from St. Stephens Episcopal Church to their reception at the Garden House at the Keeler Tavern Museum.

The bride, a professional equestrian and owner of Starbuck Equestrian in Ridgefield, was even greeted by some of her students, who held handmade signs offering congratulatory wishes for she and Trey, an investment banker with Deutsche Bank.

20 //

September/October 2020

The couple, who kept their original wedding date, had originally planned to hold their wedding in New York City. A black-tie celebration for 200 guests was planned for Saint Thomas Church on Fifth Avenue, with the reception set to take place at The University Club. While they knew in April that their NYC wedding would likely be canceled, it wasn’t until eight days before their wedding date that they started planning their Ridgefield celebration.

“Because of Connecticut’s regulations regarding gatherings, Keeler Tavern didn’t know until a week before our wedding date that they could host our reception, so we literally had to arrange everything in one week” said Amanda. “They called me as soon as they knew – and it was

an incredible call to receive” she revealed.

That enormous task was made possible with the help of local authorities and businesses. “Realizing we’d need to adjust our wedding was devastating at first, but the wonderful people we worked with made hosting a revised “wedding of our dreams” possible,” said Amanda. Ridgefield’s Chief of Police and the First Selectman’s office immediately approved a horse-drawn carriage.

“They thought it would be really uplifting for the town,” Amanda shared. The couple called on Sarah Bouissou Catering to craft the menu and chose The Cake Box to create their cake. The Garden House at Keeler Tavern was an easy choice, as it was Trey’s favorite when they scoped out a few outdoor spots for a potential

Connecticut celebration weeks prior. “Durant Party Rentals was awesome,” said Amanda.

With just days notice, Wilton’s Sweet Pierre’s designed custom boxes of chocolate for party favors, using hues from the wedding’s color palette, and Oliver Barret Fine Stationers created cocktail and dinner menus featuring their wedding logo.

As seamlessly as the wedding came together, reminders of a global pandemic were ever-present. Family and friends from near and far “attended” the wedding via Zoom. She and Trey did try to make light of it, though, even donning face masks boasting “Mr.” and “Mrs.” for photos. All things considered, the wedding came together seamlessly. “It was

honestly the perfect wedding for us,” Amanda reminisced.

P H O T O S / / N AT U R A L E X P R E S S I O N S N Y

Faces + Places MAJESTIC MAYFLOWER Auberge Resorts Collecless than an hour away.

Endless Summer Escapes Playing Tourist in Your Own Backyard //

››

ABANDONING ship on a travel dream is hard. So hard. And it’s something endless families did as the pandemic stretched into summer. Thankfully, Connecticut offers a multitude of backdrops perfect for “endless summer” escapes.

With September’s cooler nights offering a reprieve from August’s heat, and less crowded locales, September and October are great months to play tourist in our own “backyard.”

Less than an hour away in Washington is The May-

flower Inn & Spa, Auberge Resorts Collection. The 30room luxury country retreat nestled in 58 beautifully manicured acres hosts an award-winning spa and two signature dining destinations.

The backdrop is as perfect for a romantic getaway or restorative retreat as it is a family getaway.

Late last year the resort debuted a refresh by sought after interior designer Celerie Kemble, who kept the four poster beds and portraits of George Washington but added Scandinavian antiques,

P H O T O S / / T H E M AY F L O W E R I N N & S P A

By AmAndA duff

Napoleon chairs, and lots of wicker. Kemble transformed the Mayflower Dining Room, too, which aligned with the restaurant’s new farm-to-table concept.

Mayflower Inn & Spa’s 20,000-square-foot spa

affords guests a deep connection with nature while indulging in luxurious treatments or enjoying outdoor experiences including forest bathing, guided hikes, and ecology walks. Additional resort activities include

Kemble’s Vision // The de-

signer traded damasks, crysanything beige with whimsical palettes inspired by an English

September/October 2020 //

21

OCEANFRONT OASIS // Water’s Edge Resort & Spa Less than an hour and a half away, the resort’s 120 rooms, suites, and villas spread over 25 seaside acres offer an accommodation for every type of traveler. Begin your day in a waterfront room, gazing out over Long Island Sound, laze about on the resort’s private beach, and enjoy al

fresco waterfront dining at Sunset Bar & Grill or one of several other restaurants.

Water’s Edge, too, boasts an exceptional spa and endless activities.

Not to be missed is Water’s Edge’s famed Sunday brunch.

Although it shifted from buffet to a la carte, nearly every

brunch item imaginable plus raw bar favorites like jumbo shrimp cocktail and shucked oysters are still available.

Water’s Edge makes a great homebased for exploring coastal Connecticut, too.

Chamard Vineyard, part of the Connecticut Wine Trail, and the Essex Steam Train and Riverboat are less than fifteen minutes away by car, and Mystic’s much-loved attractions including Mystic Seaport are just thirty minutes away.

September and October rates at Mayflower Inn & Spa start at $595/night, Water’s Edge Resort & Spa start at $200/night.

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croquet on the lawn near the Shakespeare Garden, tennis, cooking classes, and more. While everything at the Mayflower impresses, their unique experiences really shine. From September through December, guests can enjoy a slice of quintessential Americana with their “Pick and Pie” experience, during which guests pick their own apples at nearby Averil Farms, then cook a country pie with the Mayflower’s culinary team.

Those seeking a coastal escape can retreat to the quaint and charming Water’s Edge Resort and Spa in Westbrook, Connecticut.

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Faces + Places NINJA NEXT DOOR Redding resident Michael Sherman American Ninja Warrior Junior.

The Ninja Next Door Meet Michael Sherman aka “The Shermanator” //

››

UPON first meeting 12-year-old Michael Sherman of Redding, one is struck by his direct gaze and the warmth of his personality. It might not occur to the casual observer that this bespectacled, intellectually curious preteen—who hopes to be a theoretical physicist when he grows up—is already a bona fide Ninja Warrior.

Michael was only 5 years old the first time he saw American Ninja Warrior on TV (a popular obstacle course competition series that airs on NBC) and immediately became obsessed with becom-

24 //

September/October 2020

ing a Ninja Warrior himself.

“As soon as I saw it, I knew I could do it,” says Michael with a confidence that belies his age.

Instead of dismissing their son’s unusual aspiration, parents Marlene and Larry encouraged Michael’s enthusiasm for the sport.

Initially, they enrolled him in gymnastics classes, which, for the wannabe ninja, just didn’t cut it. So in 2015, they signed him up at Real Life Ninja Academy in Hamden.

Michael persevered and soon began to excel at the sport.

His persistence paid off and

By megAn Smith-hArriS

in 2016, he made the team.

Coach Drew Drechsel knows a thing or two about the sport—he’s a seven-time Ninja Warrior competitor and an American Ninja Warrior season 11 winner. When asked what ninja training offers students, Drechsel doesn’t hesitate.

“People fail, fall, and falter throughout life,” he explains.

“Through training as a ninja, children learn how to analyze, improve, and approach obstacles—not just physically, but mentally too.”

The Academy’s custom-designed facilities are designed

to be both challenging and fun. “The goal is to push students and teach them techniques to prepare our junior warriors for competition,” says Drechsel.

How good is Michael?

Over 10,000 children from 34 different states tried out for season two of American Ninja Warrior Junior, and only 192 were selected. Michael was one of 48 kids chosen to compete in his age category.

To impress the judges, Michael submitted a video telling them about himself and included footage of his performance in a tournament

P HOTO / / U N I V E R S A L K I D S / E D DY C H E N

as well as home training clips.

Speaking of home training, the parental dedication in support of Michael’s ninja passion is impressive. Marlene drives him an hour each way to classes in Hamden three times a week. Larry has outfitted Michael’s bedroom, the upstairs hall, and the family’s guest room with an astonishing array of obstacles for his son to practice on, including a cliffhanger, dead hanger, grip grid, vertical peg board, slack line, stable board, balance pipe, and barrel roller. In the backyard, Larry has constructed a 14-foot warped wall, salmon ladder, flying bar, vertical

limit ledge, lache line, and tilted cliffhanger.

Since the pandemic hit last March, Michael has spent a minimum of an hour every day training at his home. “I look forward to it because the obstacles are fun to play and train on,” he says, his eyes shining.

“It’s such a joy and pleasure for me to watch him do what he has dreamed about doing from the first time he saw the show on TV,” says Marlene.

“He’s a competitor, he’s an athlete, and he’s doing what he loves to do. It makes me happy and proud, and we’ve made some great friendships from the sport.”

Michael trained hard to prepare for the show. Last summer, he flew out to Los Angeles for the competition, accompanied by his parents and 20-year-old sister, Jackie, who were there to cheer him on.

“Being lean, strong, and fast is more important than having bulky muscles,” says Michael. “I’ve grown as a ninja because of the experience. It taught me that I could keep up with the older and bigger ninjas, but I also learned that I need to get better and train harder.”

When you see Michael swing effortlessly through his challenging backyard obstacle

course, you suddenly understand how this mild-mannered young man transforms himself into a fierce competitor. His nickname, “The Shermanator,” is earned.

Though ultimately Michael didn’t win the competition (at least this time), he did make it to the quarterfinals. And like the iconic Schwarzenegger character portrayed in The Terminator, there is no doubt that Michael Sherman will “be back,” as an even tougher competitor—stronger, nimbler, and more strategic than ever.

We hope this isn’t the last we see of our “ninja next door.”

EST.1967

NORWALK, CT

DANBURY, CT

520 WEST AVENUE 203.939.9771

70 BEAVER STREET 203.792.8700

www. KingswoodKitchens.com

S P O N S O R E D

C O N T E N T

A Chat With Nature’s Temptations

Nature’s Temptations is more than a store. It’s a resource for the community.

A multifaceted natural food market, juice bar, and café & deli located in downtown Ridgefield, Nature’s Temptations has nourished and supported the community for over 25 years. Owner Jeff Konchalski founded Nature’s Temptations to provide locals with the highest quality organic foods and natural products available. We spoke with him to learn more about his vision.

What inspired you to open Nature’s Temptations? My inspiration was personal; I was born with spinal meningitis and was forced to overcome numerous health challenges from birth through my early teenage years. At age 15, tired of feeling sick and weak, I rode my bike to the local health food store and started researching what goes into a healthy diet as well as supplements.

I began to understand the importance that nutrition plays on bettering one’s overall health. As I adapted a healthier

Nature’s Temptations

26 //

September/October 2020

diet and saw results, I set out on a journey to heal others.

You said Nature’s Temptations is a resource. What types of information can people receive? Between Dre Dretzin, a holistic health counselor; Dr. Amy Johnson, a naturopathic doctor; Chef Liz, our executive chef who has been committed to organic and Non-GMO food for decades; and myself; someone is always available to answer questions about anxiety, sleeping, weight loss, and more.

We’ve made it our life’s purpose to understand where food comes from, how it’s grown, the depth of the nutrition of that food, and how the human body absorbs the food you eat. All of that matters. We find joy in sharing that knowledge with customers every day.

Giving back to the community is important to you. Tell us more about Nature’s Temptations’ involvement in the community? Nature’s Temptations supports numerous local causes,

including our Nature’s Temptations Family Dinners program. We also employ 22 local employees and we support dozens of local farms by carrying items like produce, honey, maple syrup, and eggs.

In a community with many gourmet grocery stores and farm stands, what makes Nature’s Temptations stand out? The level of care with which we approach every decision is immense. Of course our produce is 100 percent organic but we’re also mindful of its origin. We only use organic olive oil and pure, airdried salt. Everything in the kitchen is made from scratch—Chef Liz even makes the salad dressings daily - and more than 90 percent of ingredients used are organic.

All the water in the store is completely filtered, too. And, at the start of 2020 before we knew we’d be in a pandemic, I installed multiple Airocide air purification systems throughout the store. They use technology developed by NASA. It’s imperative to me that customers feel safe shopping with us.

naturestemptations.com

[ SEP !

Life + Style

[ OCT !

Catch, Release, Repeat Trout Unlimited’s Norwalk River Restoration //

By John torSiello

CONNECTICUT’S unique combination of stocked rivers and makes it one of the most dynamic states

September/October 2020 //

27

Life + Style

››

IT TAKES a community to save a river.

Luckily, for Fairfield County residents, that’s exactly what’s happening along the Norwalk River thanks to the Mianus Chapter of Trout Unlimited, a nationwide organization with 300,000 members spanning 36 states.

With a mission to conserve, protect, and restore North America’s cold-water fisheries and their watersheds, Trout Unlimited’s hope is that gen-

TEAMWORK // student taking

the Mianus River Unlimited has and shrubs along local rivers.

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September/October 2020

erations to come may enjoy healthy fisheries in their home waters.

Trout Unlimited’s sentiment is echoed by Jeff Yates, secretary of the Mianus Chapter and member since he was 11 years old.

A Wilton High School graduate, Yates says he and his dad initially joined Trout Unlimited because they were interested in learning more about fishing locally, but they quickly found conservation

and river restoration to be a shared passion.

Over the last few decades, Trout Unlimited has consistently increased its efforts to preserve the Norwalk River.

“Since the early 1990s, more than three quarters of a million dollars has been spent on restoring trout habitat and insuring a clean and cold Norwalk River,” says Yates.

“Fairfield County residents see the importance of having an ideal habitat for trout.”

One recent project that carried a six-figure budget focused on Schenck’s Island.

It involved narrowing the channel to create a deep pool habitat for wild fish; the project created 30 such pools and placed two-dozen trees and 200 boulders in the river. “The turnout of families was wonderful. It exemplified the fact that Trout Unlimited is an amazing organization for families,” says Yates. “Trout Unlimited truly offers so many ways to connect around fishing, conservation, and community,” he adds.

Trout Unlimited has also launched a project at Wilton’s Meadowbrook School that will undertake stormwater mitigation, preventing waters from flowing into nearby Norwalk River streams. “This is the perfect project to begin our stormwater runoff efforts,” says Yates.

“The community sees this as a way to educate about the human impact on nature,” Yates adds. The project has received a $90,000 grant from the Environmental Protection Agency, administered through DEEP. “I can’t emphasize enough how great an organization Trout Unlimited is for families,” shares Yates. “Hundreds of youngsters from kindergarten through college are involved in Trout Unlimited activities,” he adds. The organization offers youth education programs, family fishing days, Boy Scout and Girl Scout partnership programs, high school and college internships, and more.

PHOTOS // TROUT UNLIMITED

“Where family, knowledge, and passion come together to create an unforgettable customer experience.”

3 LOCATIONS Branchville, Since 1933, 720 Branchville Rd, 203-544-8958 Over 2500 wines from over 15 countries ranging from $6-$600 Including top selling national brands with a focus on smaller production, organic and natural wines Over 500 Ales and Lagers including Connecticut craft beers Over 600 Spirits and Cordials including rare Scotches and Bourbons Easy online shopping at anconaswine.com with a choice of local delivery or instore pick-up at our 3 locations

Wilton, Since 2009, 5 River Rd, 203-210-7399

Wine of the Month Club Educational tasting at our off site Annex space

17 Governor St, 203-544-9017

Private in-home tastings

,

Wine Cellar Consultation and Management Special orders: never a problem A wonderful selection of

anconaswine.com Family Owned Since 1933

Highly Educated Staff Sommeliers Everyday Mix Case Discount “Save 6% on 6 bottles and12% on 12 bottles” Daily Wine Tasting at Each Location “chose from 4 whites and 4 reds”

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Work with a Realtor with the knowledge and commitment it takes to buy or sell your home successfully. Get the uncompromised representation you deserve. You’ll be glad you did.

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Life + Style Breville Oracle Touch Espresso Machine $2,799.95 | breville.com Pro: Eileen Segalman Eileen Segalman Interiors

From Safe Haven to Sanctuary The area’s top designers share their “must have” items for turning a home into an oasis.

Dunes and Duchess Half-Hitching Post Lamp $375 | dunesandduchess.com Pro: Molly Hirsch Molly Hirsch Interiors

Sander & Sophie Color Drop Glasses $50 each | Etsy etsy.com/ shop/SuperMausPutti Pro: Cameron Cole Carcelen Ridge Architecture

Benjamin Moore’s Blue Danube + Sunburst Pro: Deborah Hayn Creative Director

Serena & Lily Barton Sofa $4,898.00 | serenaandlily.com Pro: Abigal Braden August Interiors

Dyson Pure Cool™ DP04 Purifying Fan $449.99 | dyson.com Pro: Faye Stiler-Cote Aywasi Design + Construction

30 //

September/October 2020

THE RIDGEFIELD PLAYHOUSE

Non-profit 501 (C) (3)

DIVERSITY FILM SERIES @ THE RIDGEFIELD PLAYHOUSE

AKEELAH AND THE BEE

OCTOBER 21 @ 7PM Directed by Doug Atchison

Cheryl Washington.

MALCOLM X

SEPTEMBER 9 @ 7PM Directed by Fielder Cook

I AM NOT YOUR NEGRO

SEPTEMBER 30 @ 7PM Directed by Raoul Peck

SELMA

OCTOBER 28 @ 7PM Directed by Ava DuVernay

Library

THE COLOR PURPLE

SEPTEMBER 16 @ 7PM Directed by Steven Spielberg

JINN

GET OUT

Directed by Nijla Mumin

Directed by Jordan Peele

BLUE NOTE RECORDS

NOVEMBER 11 @ 7PM

OCTOBER 7 @ 7PM

NOVEMBER 4 @ 7PM

Presented by ACT of CT

JUST MERCY

SEPTEMBER 23 @ 7PM Directed by Edward Zwick

BEYOND THE NOTES

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Eat + Drink

[ SEP !

[ OCT !

Can Craze Continues Premium Beverages in a Can? Absolutely. //

34 //

September/October 2020

By AmAndA duff

PHOTO // JESSE WINTER PHOTOGRAPHY

››

Just a few years ago, canned cocktails seemed trivial and the concept of premium wine in a can seemed far-fetched.

Now, brands throughout the beverage industry are capitalizing on the popularity of portable, single-serve beverages. According to Nielsen, the overall category of ready-to-drink beverages grew at a rate of 80 percent from April 2019 to April 2020. We understand the appeal, especially for on-the-go lifestyles that include hiking, boating, and picnicking. Here are a few of our “local” favorites:

On Y Va Loire Valley Sauvignon Blanc is an ultra-portable, premium French wine in “chic, petite canettes” (oui!) imported by Ridgefield-based David Milligan Selections. $31.95/4-pack, grapesthewineco.com and sherry-lehmann.com. ’s canned cocktails The Litchfielder, Spiked Lemonade, and Batcherita, are all carefully crafted right at Litchfield Distillery using their award-winning Batchers’ Spirits. $13.95/ 4-pack, Ancona’s Wines & Liquors.

Reed’s Zero Sugar Mule, available in Connecticut this fall, is an on-the-go craft mule boasting REAL ginger root. Bonus: Reed’s, Inc is headquartered in Norwalk. $10.99/4-pack, reedsmule. com.

Bon & Viv Spiked Seltzer, acquired in 2016 by Anheuser-Busch InBev but founded three years earlier

by South Norwalk-based Boathouse Beverage, is known to many as the “world’s first hard seltzer.”

Offered in eight flavors, $9.49/6-pack, Ancona’s Wines & Liquors.

NEW PRODUCT //

Fans of Reed’s Ginger Beer, meet the

Eat + Drink

America’s Evolving Palate

››

A Forty Year Journey From Grape to Glass //

IT’S HARD to believe based on how mainstream America’s wine culture is today that compared to cultures that have been incorporating wine for thousands of years, we’re still using training wheels. When I find myself amongst a group of wine

36 //

September/October 2020

enthusiasts in their sixties or seventies, I often ask “how many of you were raised in an environment where wine was consumed at dinner?” Hands are rarely raised.

California was the first state in the U.S. to begin producing wine on a large

By lArS m. guy

scale. Though they produced some excellent wine in the 60’s and 70’s, which was mostly consumed within the state, it wasn’t until the mid 80’s that a new generation of Americans began to incorporate wine into their lives. By then, the burgeoning Cali-

fornia wine scene was in full swing, and Americans were devouring the Wine Spectator and the Wine Advocate, first published in ’76 and ’78, respectively. True to our American spirit, Americans were all in.

California chardonnays

Uncertainties are everywhere.

Your childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s education doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have to be one of them.

Small class sizes, limited openings!

To join us this fall: Call Director of Enrollment David Suter at 203.894.1800 x112 to schedule your tour today!

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Whether class happens in person, remote or through a hybrid of both, your child will be inspired and challenged to learn from teachers who are prepared for any scenario. $ &DPSXV UHRSHQLQJ SODQV SODFH \RXU FKLOG·V KHDOWK DQG VDIHW\ DV WKH WRS SULRULW\ $ <RXU FKLOG·V VRFLDO DQG HPRWLRQDO ZHOO EHLQJ ZLOO EH VXSSRUWHG LQ WDQGHP ZLWK WKHLU DFDGHPLF JURZWK $ 1HZ WHFKQRORJ\ SURYLGHV \RX ZLWK D FKRLFH RI LQ FODVV RU SDUDOOHO UHPRWH OHDUQLQJ HDFK FODVVURRP H[SHULHQFH RIIHUV WZR SDUWLFLSDWLRQ SDWKV

Eat + Drink WHAT. A. VIEW. Craggy Range’s Giants Winery sits at the foot of Te Mata Peak in the heart of New Zealand’s before beginning fermentation.

have historically been at least partially aged in oak barrels. That process creates a richer, buttery mouthfeel while adding flavor notes of vanilla and caramel. This is not bad as long as it’s done judiciously. A legendary French winemaker once told me that when tasting chardonnay, the first thing you should detect is the fruit.

If you taste butter or vanilla first, it’s unbalanced.

While some prefer that

38 //

September/October 2020

style of wine, it’s vastly different from wine aged in stainless steel tanks.

Aging in stainless steel results in a purer expression of the grape. This style of wine is becoming increasingly popular in the U.S., as is evident the rising import of wines that typically embody this style. The import of rosé wines from Provence skyrocketed from 123,000 cases in 2010 to more than 2,000,000 in 2019. Imports from

France’s Loire Valley, chiefly Sancerre, have grown at double-digit pace since 2014.

And 2019 marked the 24th consecutive year of growth for wine shipments from New Zealand, much of which is sauvignon blanc.

These wines are from vastly different parts of the world, but there is a common link: most of these wines are aged in stainless steel. They are refreshingly authentic, simple expressions of the grapes.

They are fun and vibrant, and very food friendly. America’s palate has evolved throughout a journey that’s taken place within the last 40 years. For any wine enthusiast, it has truly been a golden era.

Lars Guy is a 30-year veteran of the wine and spirits industry. He holds two credentials from the Society of Wine Educators: Certified Specialist of Wine and Certified Spirits Specialist.

PHOTOS // CRAGGY RANGE

Apple Blossom School & Family Center

A WALDORF SCHOOL 440 Danbury Road • Wilton, CT 06897 • (203) 493-4003

TRUST CHILDHOOD

PROGRAMS: Nursery Program, Mixed-Age Kindergarten, Parent & Child Classes, Waldorf Parenting Classes, Summer Camp, & Extended Day Program To learn more, please call (203) 493-4003 or email admissions@appleblossomschool.org.

e h T World Is Waiting A curated guide to the area’s diverse selection of private schools Apple Blossom School & Family Center Wilton, CT Nursery – K, 203-493-4003, appleblossomschool.org Apple Blossom offers formal parent/child programs based on the Waldorf method of education, which seeks to nurture the head, heart, and hands. Children learn to build their emotional strength. A new extended care program allows parents to drop children off at 8 am to be picked up by 4 pm.

curriculum, and a well-equipped classroom, geared toward educating those in grades 9-12 while they train at the Golf Performance Center. Dorms are

Hopkins School

Enrollment: 800, 9 – 12, all boys, 203-254-4200, Located on the 200-acre semirural

Enrollment: 400, Pre-K - 9, On two campuses, but one mission:

a traditional Jesuit high school of

deepen his relationship with God. Prep aims to form young men who possess the conscience to make wise decisions, a compassion for others, and a commit-

Stamford, CT Enrollment: 695, Pre-K - 12, 203-322-3496, kingschoolct.org King School open minds and sparks courageous thinking. Its students forge paths to excellence. Because when a school sets better standards for both the experience and outcomes of educaMiss Porter’s School Farmington, CT Enrollment: 313, 9 - 12, 860-409-3500, porters.org A community of 306 girls, the school’s

disciplines. Students embrace the school Enrollment: 200+, K – 9, all boys, 203-259-2723, -

Ethan Allen Prep Grades 9 - 12, 203-790-4653 thegolfperformancecenter.com The Golf Performance Center is a leading facility for golf training and performance on Route 7 in Ridgefield, CT. GPC has launched a fully accredited high school called Ethan Allen Preparatory School, with instructors, targeted

KEY

40 //

September/October 2020

Parents are drawn to RCS because of

Enrollment: Nursery - Pre-K, 203-438-6806,

and sustainability and resource manage-

but for life.”

community and culture immersed in demic program, and the close partnership students and parents share with teachers. A cutting-edge media center

Enrollment: 714, 7 - 12, 203-397-1001, Located on a 108-acre campus, Hopkins is the third-oldest independent school in the country, and admissions

Preparatory School

Berkshire School Enrollment: 399, 9 – 12, 413-229-8511, berkshireschool.org Established in 1907, Berkshire School prepares 9th-12th graders for a global

dents who face dyslexia, ADHD, and other riculum, and strong support system.

curriculum that is rigorously designed to stretch each boy to reach his full potential.

tion, with core characteristics of curiosity, global citizenship, and courage.

Forman School Enrollment: 218, 9 – Post-grad, 860-567-8712, formanschool.org A co-ed boarding and day school for stu-

ALL BOYS

ALL GIRLS

Enrollment: 264, Pre-K - 8, 203-894-1800, Parents choose Ridgefield Academy and its affiliated Landmark Preschool

RELIGIOUSLY AFFILIATED

Teaching basic math, reading, and science

Wooster School Danbury, CT Enrollment: 378, PreK - 12, 203-830-3900, woosterschool.org Fosters a culture rich in thinking, learning, and self-help. Its students essary to confidently and resiliently engage the world as people of conscience, compassion, and action.

SPECIAL NEEDS

What does PG mean?

The reason for staying the extra year bestudent. Some know early on in their pre-college career that this is a choice they want to make, while others are not pleased with their college options and prefer to spend the extra year

academic and social skills as well as athletic ability. With increasingly rigorous tional opportunity to succeed. As Pam lots more parents say this is where they

to college not quite mature enough to a students college options will change

READY FOR COLLEGE. READY FOR LIFE. A co-ed boarding and day school for grades 9-12 & PG. Advanced Math/Science Research, Advanced Humanities Research, Sustainability, a range of arts offerings, and championship athletics on a stunning 400-acre campus in the Berkshires.

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a new maturity to bring with them in the years beyond secondary school.

At independent schools, the PG program usually consists of between 20 to 30 students who are for the most part treated as members of the senior The choices they make are meant to strengthen their transcript with gaps. There are usually required courses for the post-grad students. PG students often focus on sports, drama, and comdo a PG year are normally recommended ance counselor. Katherine Gross

Does your child enjoy learning?

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• Small interactive classes • Competitive athletics, arts, public speaking, and wellness • Educational programs before and after school from 7:45 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

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Join us for a Parent Pop-In Tour!

RSVP at www.rcsny.org/pop-in or call (914) 244-1205 Each day, we inspire PreK through Grade 9 students to imagine, create, and innovate.

Ten Minutes With //

A MUSICAL COMPOSER

Alan Menken Aladdin

is an eight-time Oscar Award–winning composer beThe Little Mermaid, , Sister Act and Little Shop of Horrors

A Whole New World.

The constraint is the freedom. Universal emotions still come through in those specifics. It isn’t any less passionate.

I work in collaboration. I started with Howard Ashman and since then I just work with lyricists. It helps me be more diverse. I don’t write until I know the story line— what is the moment of this song? Where does it start and end? Only then do I let my hands touch the piano. I love the instant feedback of having the collaborator with me. You throw out 90 percent, and ten percent becomes what you move forward with.

Stephen Schwartz and I are doing a sequel to Enchanted. I just worked with Lin-Manuel Miranda on something for the Little Mermaid movie. I worked with Glenn Slater, who I wrote Sister Act and Tangled with. Many others.

How often do you perform? Fairly often

actually. I was just in Japan. I do these live Mermaids and Beauty and the Beast with orchestra and cast and I do an introductory medley. I do my live concert, which I’ll do at the Ridgefield Playhouse. I really enjoy it, but don’t have the time to do it as much as I would like.

hub. There are great events, great bands, and theatrical acts that have been there.

I did a friends-and-family screening of the Aladdin movie last spring. I’m thrilled to be performing there. It’s small-town, cozy, and intimate, yet major in the talent that perform there.

-

The Ridgefield Playhouse is very significant because it has become a cultural

42 //

September/October 2020

I find it easier. My nightmare assignment is “write anything you want.” Tell me to write a love song to chewing gum or something.

Yes, at my studio. It’s a great work area, and I’m fortunate people like working here. Right now I’m working on eight projects. It’s insane, but over the years I have been able to compartmentalize each project. The coronavirus world is good for getting a lot of word done, but there is no substitute for being in the same room.

Yes, I love it in Ridgefield. I shop at Hutton’s, Bailey’s Backyard, Southwest Cafe, Ridgefield Prime. Nature’s Temptation. Beautiful town, uniquely warm. We have lots of friends there.

How We Met //

By Megan Smith-Harris

RECOVER YOUR

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at the RVNAhealth !;_-0bѴb|-ঞom ş );ѴѴm;vv ;m|;u Hands-on, individualized care for all ages: O Physical Therapy O Occupational Therapy O Speech Therapy 27 Governor Street Ridgefield, Connecticut 203.438.5555 rvnahealth.org

ON JULY 27, 2009, Daniel Pereira danced his way into Jeffery Albanesi’s heart without even knowing it. Albanesi, born and raised in Ridgefield, was pursuing a career in the jewelry business in New York City but had moved back to his childhood home to spend more time with his ailing father. Albanesi didn’t embrace the online dating scene and certainly wasn’t looking for a longterm relationship, but he did want to

connect with the local gay community. One night, he decided to check out Triangles, a gay bar in Danbury.

When Albanesi arrived at the club, he noticed Pereira right away.

“What drew me to Daniel was how he carried himself. He was smiling and confident. He was out on the dance floor—all by himself—and was an amazing dancer. I was captivated.”

Albanesi tried in vain to get Pereira’s attention by smiling at him from the sidelines but gained no traction. Finally, he positioned his drink next to Pereira’s on the bar and waited for the opportunity to strike up a conversation.

His game plan worked. The two ended up talking for over three hours and discovered they had a lot in common. “Jeffery was so sweet and handsome, and I really enjoyed our conversation,” recalls Pereira.

They also shared a spontaneous kiss. “There was definitely chemis-

PHOTO, TOP / / M EG A N S M I T H - H A R R I S

try,” affirms Albanesi with a smile.

So much so that the next day, Albanesi dropped by Nature’s Temptation, where Pereira was working, and asked him out on an official date. Over dinner that evening, Albanesi learned more about Pereira’s background.

“I grew up in a small town in Brazil—only 3,000 people,” says Pereira. “When I was 18, I came to the U.S. to visit my uncle in Boston and realized this is where I wanted to live. Back in Brazil, my family had never accepted the fact that I was gay.”

After immigrating to America, Pereira worked at his uncle’s restaurant and taught himself English by reading books, watching movies, and asking a lot of questions.

Remarkably, by the time he met his future husband, Pereira’s English was almost flawless.

The couple dated exclusively for four years and after same-sex marriage became legal in the state of Connecticut, they tied the knot in an intimate ceremony for ten at Ballard Park.

A celebratory dinner followed at Sarah’s Wine Bar, and the newlyweds honeymooned that night at the West Lane Inn. Today, the couple still live in Albanesi’s childhood home and are now co-owners of The Market at Union Hall, an upscale market located in a circa 1848 building in North Salem. The charming 900-square-foot store offers healthy, organic produce; delicious prepared meals; and sumptuous desserts and baked goods made by local purveyors. There’s also a hip coffee bar and bistro seating inside as well as room for 20 on the outside patio.

The market’s motto perfectly sums up this couple’s relationship and life philosophy: “Nothing but love comes through these doors.”

Like us. You’ll love it! facebook

Originals Copied or PDFs Printed 12 Mill Plain Road Danbury, CT 06811 203.743.6755

THE YEAR OF THE

RV

ISOLATING IN STYLE AMONGST THE GREAT OUTDOORS B

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September/October 2020

y

A

m A n d A

d

u f f

AMERICA THE BEAUTIFUL The Mackinac Bridge, which connects Michigan’s lower and upper peninsulas; enjoying Michigan’s miles of biking trails; our waterfront campsite in Manistique, MI, located on Michigan’s Upper Peninsula.

“We should buy an RV,”my husband and I said to one another, half-jokingly, at the end of March. A cross-country RV trip was a bucket-list item for us, something we, like many Americans, hoped to do “one day.” Had we not been in the midst of a pandemic, the statement would have been far-fetched. But we realized we’d be “grounded” for the foreseeable future, and wildly low gas prices plus the freedom to travel wherever we want, when we want, while social distancing added to the appeal.

We weren’t alone in our interest in RV travel; between April 1 and late May, RVshare, a website which connects owners with travelers looking to rent an RV, reported a 1,000 percent increase in nationwide bookings. Of course, RV travel isn’t a new phenomenon. America’s attention was first captured in 1915, when Roland Conklin tasked his NYC-based Gas-Electric Motor Bus Company with building a vehicle that was both “dwelling and automobile” for his family’s cross-country trip. RV travel further gained popularity in the decades that followed.

The “all American road trip” continued to be a bucket-list adventure for many, including Ridgefield Magazine founder Geoffrey Morris, who traveled with his family to the Grand Canyon in an Airstream during a recent spring break.

Embracing the “no time like the present” philosophy, we set out to find the perfect RV for our family. Little did we know, the “recreational vehicle” category is astonishingly broad and encompass-

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September/October 2020

es everything from pop-up campers to mobile “land yachts.”

RVs have two subcategories: motorhomes and trailers. Motorhomes feature the motor vehicle and interior space on the same chassis, offering an “all-in-one” option, while trailers require a truck or SUV with sufficient towing capacity. Trailers range from small pop-up or teardrop “campers” to larger travel trailers and fifth wheels. It’s an incredibly versatile category.

We wanted our RV’s interior to be accessible during travel, so a motorhome was the right fit for us. Three classes of motorhomes exist: Class A, Class B, and Class C. Class A motorhomes, which resemble Greyhound busses, are the largest coaches on the market; they range in size from 26 to 45 feet and can cost up to a half a million dollars.

Class B motorhomes are the ubertrendy RVs often referred to as “campervans.” They’re essentially vans, like the Mercedes Sprinter or Ford Transit, which have been transformed into campers thanks to space-saving elements. While

not for everyone, they’re a great choice for individuals or couples who don’t require ample space or luxuries.

We ended up finding our “home-sweet-motorhome” in a 29-foot Class C, which falls between Class A and Class B in terms of size and comfort.

Class Cs are easily recognized by their distinctive cab extending over the cockpit. They often have a private bedroom in the back, a full bathroom, and slide outs, which are walls that expand to allow for additional space. They do not require a special driver’s license, according to current DMV laws in all 50 states.

Just like with RVs, lodging options are extensive and include KOA campgrounds, campgrounds in state and national parks, and luxury RV resorts. Add to the list membership-based sites like Boondockers Welcome and Harvest Hosts, and it’s hard to know where to stay. In the last few months, we’ve visited eight states and our accommodations have ranged from rural lakefront campgrounds, to luxury RV resorts, to an apple orchard we found

HAPPY CAMPERS

through Harvest Hosts. We’d return to about 70 percent of the places we stayed.

Most campgrounds offer a variety of hookup options. With a full hookup, the RV connects directly to water, electricity and sewer. A partial hookup offers water and electricity but not sewer, and a dry hookup offers a power source but no water or sewer.

In June, with one two-week trip inthe-books, we embarked on a “Great Lakes Great Adventure.” During the monthlong trip, we visited all five Great Lakes, taking care to ensure we weren’t violating any quarantine orders in the states we visited. Our itinerary included nine stops, with campgrounds that ranged from remote to recreation filled.

The variety of experiences RV travel affords is truly amazing.

Our first stop was Olcott Beach, New York, on the shores of Lake Ontario.

Our campsite was positioned near the edge of a cliff high above the water. The vistas were spectacular. We biked around town during the day and watched the sunset amidst the Toronto skyline at night. Geneva-on-the-Lake, Ohio followed. It was “GOTL,” as the locals call it, where we experienced our first “RV resort.” A complete contrast to our Lake Ontario campground, the Indian Creek RV Resort featured endless amenities including an 18-hole mini golf course, catch and release fishing,

a KOA in Tennessee; a recreation center with we lunched al fresco at Mackenzie, our “Mighty arts and crafts, and more. the storied Grand Hotel, Mac,” in Mackinaw City, It was directly across the indulged in the island’s MI; Pictured Rocks street from Lake Erie, so we famous fudge, and strolled National Lakeshore in spent most of our time at the for hours while admiring Munising, MI; embarking on a pedal boat advenbeach. A KOA in Angola, the sights. ture in Muskegon, MI. Indiana was our next stop.

Each night, after It wasn’t a coastal charmer, roasting s’mores over our but it was an action-packed campground campsite’s firepit, my husband and I with a splash pad and lazy river—great sipped wine while watching the sunset. I entertainment for a toddler. never thought I’d say this, but right there We spent the next few weeks in at our campsite, watching a sensational Michigan. Our first stop in the “Great sunset, we were as happy as we’d been at Lakes State” was Muskegon, located on five-star hotels.

Lake Michigan. Duck Creek RV Resort’s From Mackinaw City we headed spacious campsites, elaborate playground north over the “Mighty Mac” to and seemingly brand-new facilities suited Manistique, MI, where our waterfront us beautifully. The resort offered watercampsite afforded expansive views of the sport rentals at its own lake, including cherry-red Manistique East Breakwater a yellow duck pedal boat. In Muskegon Lighthouse. Next was Munising, our we first experienced Michigan’s wonfurthest point north. Located on Lake derful trail system, which enabled us to Superior, Munising is most famously bike safely to Duck Lake State Park and known for Pictured Rocks National experience breathtaking views from atop Lakeshore, where miles of colorful sandthe park’s sand dunes. stone cliffs have been naturally sculpMackinaw City was our next stop. tured into caves, arches, and more. Upon Our waterfront campsite offered magdeparting Munising to begin our journey nificent views of Lake Huron and the home, we’d fallen madly in love with the “Mighty Mac,” the longest suspension RV lifestyle—and Michigan. bridge in the Western Hemisphere.

To me, the word “camping” always We biked from our campsite to evoked images of woodsy, tent-filled Colonial Michilimackinac, a reconlocales. But we discovered that America’s structed 18th-century fort and fur-tradRVs and campgrounds are much more ing post. We also took to the ferry to diverse. As with hotels, there’s a camping iconic, car-free Mackinac Island where experience for every type of traveler.

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CIDER SEASON Apple trees at Harvest Moon Farm and Orchard in North Salem, NY; Hardscrabble Cider’s award-winning ciders; Hardscrabble Cider’s orchard; Ironbound Hard Cider’s tasting room; Ironbound Farm’s orchard.

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TEP AWAY FROM THE ROSÉ—it’s time to pour yourself a glass of cider. And not the kind from a plastic jug, as yummy as that is when it comes off the stove with some mulling spices on a chilly evening.

Rather, it’s time to sip cider from the small-batch cideries popping up throughout the Northeast. Think Hardscrabble Cider in North Salem, Spoke + Spy Ciderworks in Middletown, and more. Luscious, lively ciders that almost make it possible to envision the orchards, smell the crisp air and taste fall.

The U.S. is in the midst of a cider renaissance with cideries around the country, including many within Fairfield County’s backyard, making the kind of grown-up beverage you used to have to go to Europe to find. Elegant, sophisticated, complex alcoholic drinks in various styles that pair well with a multitude of flavors and cuisines.

“There’s nothing quite like drinking a cider on a cool, crisp fall day,” said Anthony Sepe, the tasting room manager of Hardscrabble Cider. The micro farm-cidery, founded by brothers Alex, Kevin, and Ben Covino in 2014, offers six ciders, bottled annually, as part of their core lineup as well as a few seasonal ciders. They primarily use culinary apples, filtering and carbonating the cider.

“The majority of our customers are transitioning from wine or beer, so we aim to create a light, refreshing, easily palatable cider,” Sepe said.

Adventurous cider drinkers should mark their calendars now. Throughout the summer, Hardscrabble also features ‘experimental’ ciders on tap. They’re funkier ciders and made using unique fruits, and even vegetables, either grown at the orchard or sourced locally.

While Sepe describes their cider as modern in style, cider is an old drink. The first recorded mention dates to 55 BCE. And within a decade of landing at Plymouth, European colonists had planted apple trees and were making cider. It’s our country’s ancestral alcohol, one that after being almost wiped out during Prohibition, we’re slowly rediscovering.

At its most basic level, cider is simply fermented apple juice, but there are various cider styles. There are still ciders, sparkling made in the méthode champenoise tradition with multiple fermentations, through forced carbonation, or another sparkling method. There are also flavored ciders and dessert ciders, such as ice cider made by con-

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SIPS OF THE SEASON Hardscrabble Cider tasting; the Hardscrabble Cider team: Gus Stancati, Alex Covino, Anthony Sepe and Ben Covino; Anthony Sepe in Hardscrabble’s Tasting Room; and Spoke & Spy Ciderworks.

centrating the juice from the apples and freezing it before fermenting. For Pommeau ciders, fortified wine is made by adding apple brandy to unfermented apple juice and then barrel-aged. The many different types of apples used and the terroir can give ciders their own unique taste and style. They are sophisticated and varied as wine or craft beer.

Much of the cider renaissance is happening just over the border in New York state, where makers like Hardscrabble Cider have helped grow the U.S. cider industry from 5 million gallons in 2005 to 46 million gallons in 2016, according to a Cornell University study.

While Connecticut hasn’t caught up with New York (yet), it seems like every year there is a new cidery to try in our state.

You’ll find selections of ciders at Ancona’s Wines & Liquors, Village Wine and Spirits, tasting rooms throughout the Northeast and available direct to your door from some cideries. If you’re having trouble deciding, start by looking for ciders made from 100% apples — you want to look for natural ciders that do not contain any artificial apple flavor. Here are five to seek out.

Hardscrabble Cider: Take a trip to the cidery and grab a glass of The Standard. The semi-sweet, fruit-forward cider is an excellent introduction to the cider world, and it pairs well with a walk through their orchard.

Known for their rosé wines, Wölffer Estate ciders are among the easier ciders to find in stores. Look for the No. 139 Dry Rosé Cider. The rosy, slightly sweet cider combines the best of cider and rosé and is versatile enough to pair with everything from a cheese plate to spicy Thai food to pecan pie.

Spoke + Spy Ciderworks: When you’re ready to expand your cider knowledge, Spoke + Spy Ciderworks has several flavored ciders. Occasionally, there’s cider made using natural fermentation for an earthy taste reminiscent of the natural wine.

Ironbound Farm: Serious cider drinkers need to know about this New Jersey cidery’s Gooseberry Ginger cider. Made with ginger grown on the farm as well as New Jersey gooseberries, this is a tart, lively, complex cider. And not that you needed another reason to pick up a bottle, but not only does the mission-driven company practice good-for-the-Earth regenerative farming, it’s also dedicated to employing those lacking traditional employment options such as the formerly incarcerated.

The tenth-generation family orchard in Washington, CT offers a still and dry cider made using the orchard’s European variety apples. The result is funky ciders that are must-tries for those looking to expand their cider knowledge and taste.

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RPAC Gallery Celebrates First Anniversary!

RPAC GALLERY is a fine art gallery with a retail storefront on Main Street in the center of Ridgefield. This September will mark their one-year anniversary. Along with a collection of amazing art from RPAC Art Center and Academy’s talented Resident Artists, RPAC Gallery hosts exhibits from featured artists. RPAC Gallery’s current exhibit, featuring artwork by Lydia Larson, will run through September 20, 2020. We spoke with RPAC Gallery to learn more about their vision and plans for the future.

rotates our exhibits approximately every eight weeks. We’ve been told that our gallery resembles a New York City Fine Art Gallery—that landed in the middle of Ridgefield.

What is RPAC Gallery’s mission? To exhibit the working, local artists and to give RPAC Art Center’s Resident Artists a home gallery to showcase their work.

How does an artist exhibit at RPAC RPAC Gallery represents a group of talented and established resident artists who occupy studio space at the RPAC Art Center and Academy.

Our exhibits provide each Resident Artist a place to showcase newly created works.

In addition to showcasing the Resident Artists’ work, the Art Center provides full-service support including studio space, print and online marketing, a state-of-the-art computer lab, and access to fine art and computer graphics classes.

What kinds of art do you exhibit? RPAC Gallery exhibits all types of fine art. We represent various local artists working in oil and acrylic paints, photographers, and artists in other mediums who create in distinct styles including abstract, expressionism, realism, and more.

Each exhibit is expertly curated by Dee Dee Colabella, principal and artist, who

RPAC Gallery

You can find artists in the Gallery or you can arrange a visit to the studio to see their work in progress. If you are interested in exploring our full collection, you can visit www.rpacgallery.com.

Do you have to be a Resident Artist No, as the face of education changes, at least for the time being, having a community is more important than ever for an artist.

RPAC Art Center not only provides safe and creative studio space, we also give students the support they need, whether that’s with dedicated creative time or professional (socially distanced) instruction.

Our Gallery’s first year has been a great success. As we look back, especially given the adversity we’ve faced in recent months, we are proud of our accomplishments as well as those of the community of artists that we call our RPAC family. Our anniversary art exhibit, opening September 24, 2020, will feature only RPAC Resident Artists, and the exhibit will focus on the works created through the 2020 global pandemic.

How do I contact RPAC? The best way is e-mail: info@RPACArtCenter.com.

You may also stop by the RPAC Gallery at 410 Main Street, Ridgefield, next to Tazza Café.

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LOCAL TALENT

SIX DESIGNERS SHOW OFF A FAVORITE SPACE

Having a home that doubles as a sanctuary is more desireable now than ever before. From spectacularly crafted custom kitchens, chic bedrooms, and elegant living rooms to serene outdoor living spaces and inspiring home offices — where many have logged countless hours in the past few months — these talented designers showcase how they’ve transformed their client’s wish into a design dream-come-true.

Whether your style leans toward traditional or contemporary, beachy or coastal chic, you don’t need to leave Fairfield County to find the right designer for you.

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Celebrity staging designer, Leia T. Ward knows what takes to transform luxury homes for top value.

With a client list including projects for actor Bruce Willis, NY Knicks star RJ Barrett and the television show This Old House, powerhouse stager Leia T. Ward has been busy at work staging the most soughtafter estates in NY and CT ranging from $5-$25 Million. The founder and principal designer of LTW Design is the secret ingredient to selling a house in NY and CT, transforming the most sought-after homes into listings buyers canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t resist. By strategically bringing in sleek furniture, painting walls, and styling interior marketing approach helps to sell homes swiftly and at top market value. No detail is too small,

client list; sheâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s truly the missing puzzle piece in any real estate team.

Leia T. Ward LTW Design ltwdesign.com

rator and event planner who can transform a space season after season while wowing guests with fabulous tablescapes and eye-catching dĂŠcor.

Kim Harper joined Jill Rae Designs after working for years under Toran Harper Interiors. Kim credits her ability to create innovative design solutions -

Jill Rae and Kim Harper Jill Rae Designs jillraedesigns.com

Molly Hirsch Molly Hirsch Interiors mollyhirschinteriors.com

Molly Hirsch is an award-winning Interior Designer and the Creative Director of Molly Hirsch Interiors. Mollyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s solution-driven approach to home design will elevate how you and your family thrive

beautifully designed home elevates joy and comfort, and a well-functioning home provides ease and restoration. Mollyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s designs are transformative; behind the beautiful imagery, around

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Abigail Braden August Interiors augustinteriorsct.com

ette, or the realization that their home is now theirs

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Eileen Segalman Eileen Segalman Interiors eileensegalmaninteriors.com

Ursula Hanavan Interiors & Designs by Ursula 378 Main Street, Ridgefield 203.438.5996

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Helping teens and young adults thrive Martha Evans Morris, LMSW â&#x20AC;˘

Therapy for ages 16 and up marthaevansmorris.com 203-247-4918 CT License #3772

381 Main Street, Ridgefield, CT 06877 203-438-0065 www.deborahanns.com

Out & About

SEP / OCT 2020

// Ridgefield’s

streets will be lined with eye-catching, locally-created art during the Ridgefield Guild of Artists’ 7th Annual Ridgefield Art Walk, taking place August 21st through September 13th. This fundraising event benefits the Guild. More info: rgoa.org

Diversity Film Series town

The arts have the remarkable ability to over-

Tour the outer Norwalk Harbor

ences. Recently, ten local organizations gathered to

themselves starstruck

historic lighthouses during a Norwalk

medium.

will be on view outdoors throughout the and inside the galleries

in which to enjoy late Shoreline.

tions while encouraging the community to work toward better understanding one another” said Stockel.

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Hummock Island Aventure

9/14

Ability Beyond’s Annual Golf & Tennis Tournament will take place SEP 14 at Ridgewood Country Club in Danbury. Ability Beyond is dedicated to empowering every person, no matter their ability, to have the opportunity to live, work and thrive as an integral part of their community.

Nature Calls

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.

1972 FIAT DINO 2400 SPIDER, Silver blue metallic / black. A rare, stunning roadster, one of 424 produced, powered by Ferrari’s four-cam V6, 5-speed Getrag, independent rear suspension, recent paint, interior, top and engine rebuild. A sensational rally or event car, ready to be driven and shown. 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 Think this beautiful work is a painting? Think again. Bisa Butler’s medium is fabric, and her vivid, larger-than-life portraits that capture African American identity will be at the Katonah Museum of Art until October 4th.

Open every Saturday through October, 9AM - 2PM, vegetables are 100% organically grown and have been lovingly tended

by Farmer Jonathan. Visit them Wednesdays at the Wilton Farmers’ Market, too.

The Last Shot

Looking Back These days, it’s hard to imagine RIDGEFIELD’S MAIN STREET without

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September/October 2020

PHOTO // COURTESY JACK SANDERS

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