Issuu

LI F E + C U LTU R E

Happy Holidays!

O PERATIO N H O PE SHOPPING

LO CAL GI FT GU I DE F O O D + B E V E R AG E

SO N IA’ S GOU RM ET KITCH EN

D E C E M B E R 2 02 3

With Warmest Holiday Wishes Karl Babikian 203.233.6112

William Bodine Tim Dailey 203.610.7229 203.209.1205

Walter Dobosz Victoria Fingelly Catherine Fingelly Granneberg 203.610.0647 203.610.0648 203.258.5304

Nicholas Granneberg Sharon Henry Harder Rick Higgins 203.581.0602 203.209.1036 203.520.6778 Melissa Mack 203.803.8637

Kevin Moore Patricia Prenderville 203.258.5073 203.984.9423

Annie Klyver Matt Lahey 203.520.9913 203.767.4190

Eric Sundman Timothy Smith 203.255.0101 203.258.5944

656 Harbor Road, Southport CT 06890 Licensed in CT & NY Higgins Group Private Brokerage is an exclusive member of Forbes Global Properties in Fairfield County, Connecticut. Forbes® is a registered trademark used under license.

With Hope For Peace

Victoria Fingelly

December 2023 PUBLISHER S

LIFESTYLE LETTER

December 2023 Publisher Letter The holidays are here and as the spirit of the season is among us, we often try to replicate what made the season feel so magical to us in our youth. The traditions we set for our own families often mirror some of what we experienced as a child. For us, the holidays have always meant time to gather with family and friends enjoying meals and activities together. This month, we wanted to highlight the magic of the season and what Fairfield has to offer that helps spread holiday cheer. We have a wonderful gnocchi and sweet sausage recipe from Sonia’s Gourmet Kitchen that we know you are going to want to make for your loved ones. We’ve compiled a gift guide to make your shopping easier and to support our local businesses. As the holiday season is always a great time to think about how we can help others in our community and beyond, we have an article about Operation Hope, a community-based organization that helps to prevent hunger and homelessness. We recognize that the holidays can be difficult and lonely for some. Our hope for all of you this season is that you feel love and peace and that we all remember to take care of each other, extending kindness, empathy and love. Happy Holidays Fairfield! B R U C E B E R N S T E I N & M I N DY K AT Z , P U B L I S H E R S @FAIRFIELDLIFEST YLEMAGA ZINE

Bruce Bernstein | bruce.bernstein@citylifestyle.com Mindy Katz | mindy.katz@citylifestyle.com EDITOR

Samantha Beranbom samantha.beranbom@citylifestyle.com ACCOUNT MANAGER

Pam Antonacchio | pam.antonacchio@citylifestyle.com CONTR IBUTING PHOTOGR APHER

Dariusz Terepka Photography

Corporate Team CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson DIRECTOR OF FIRST IMPRESSIONS Jennifer Robinson TECHNICAL DIRECTOR Josh Klein AD DESIGNER Evan Deuvall LAYOUT DESIGNER Andi Foster

Learn how to start your own publication at: citylifestyle.com//franchise

Scan QR code to visit our Instagram CIT YLIFEST YLE.COM/FAIRFIELD |

Proverbs 3:5-6 Fairfield Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Fairfield area’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in Fairfield Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the

L I F E ST Y LE LE T T E R

accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

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TH I S H O L IDAY S E A S O N WI T H I N STA L IF T !

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DECEMBER 2023

inside the issue The Holidays & Giving Issue

F E ATU R E D

D E PA RTM E NTS

22 Operation Hope

Lifestyle Letter

City Scene

Business Monthly

Giving Back LI FE + C U LT U R E

Gift Guide S HO PPI NG

Culinary Creations FO O D + B E V E R AG E

Inspired By LI FE + C U LT U R E

Party Planning FO O D + B EV E R AG E

Events

Ending hunger and homelessness, one person at a time.

32 Shop Local for the Holidays! The Best Gift Ideas

38 A Family Affair Sonia’s Gourmet Kitchen

O N T H E C OV E R

Photography: Dariusz Terepka Photography Christmas time in Fairfield.

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city scene

Where neighbors can see and be seen. 1

7 5

Friends of the Bigelow Center for Senior Activities Wine on the Water at Jacky Durrell Pavilion 1: Georgann Hoffman, Ginny Latham and Sandra Timmerman 2: David Hamm and Susan Mango 3: Brenda Steele, Julie DeMarco, Brenda Kupchick, D Valentin, Bruce Bernstein and Joy Nazzaro 4: Mario and Kathy Delconte, Monica Flanagan, Debe O’Brien, Jennifer Delconte 5: Tom and Pat McHale and Ian Bass 6: Beverly Balaz and Laura Incerto 7: Neil Anand and Meagan Cauda Photography by Kate Eisemann Pictures

C I T Y SC E N E

14 12

Trumpet’s Opening Party. 8: Sarah Thurston 9: Elizabeth Collins and Caroline Crawford 10: Gabby Miller, Sarah Thurston, Paige O’Neill, Debbie Montelli, Rosanna Coughlin, Sue O’Neill 11: Jill Cohen 12: Jessica Dawne, Dana Gilson and Jennifer Mehok 13: Deb Montelli and Sandra Guibord 14: Zoe Laferriere and Greer Weiland Photography by New Light Creative Services

CONTINUED >

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CIT Y SCENE CONTINUED

Want to be seen in the magazine? Tag your Instagram photos with @FairfieldLifestyleMagazine

21 19

NicholsMD Anniversary Party. 15: Bianca Patel and Shefali Ahmadi 16: Emily Anne Scalise and Beverly Balaz 17: Peyton Cabanillas, Dr. Kim Nichols, Desi Cabanillas, Sasha Cabanillas and Chris Cabanillas 18: Stephanie Smith, Ty Brown and Erica Edukugho 19: Madison Bradley and Andreah BonHomme 20: Kellie Maroney and Evan Baumann 21: Zac Mathias, and Nina B. Clarke Photography by Abby Cole Photography

C I T Y SC E N E

DECEMBER 2023

business monthly A round-up of exciting news from local businesses.

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Dr. Bonte is excited to bring his toprated expertise in pain management and non-surgical orthopedics from Westchester to Fairfield County in the new year. Bonte Medical offers advanced, cutting-edge interventional treatments including regenerative medicine and IV infusions for chronic pain. His goal is to design a personalized treatment plan to help people recover from injury, reach their goals, and enjoy life to its fullest potential. bontemedical. com @bonte.medical Photography: Lucas Zhao

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Coll It Entertaining Coll It Entertaining is your trusted Fairfield County event planner specializing in creating unforgettable moments across the state. With over 15 years of experience, Colleen is uniquely positioned to assist in crafting your perfect celebration. Whether you envision a lively party, heartfelt celebration, long-awaited reunion, or a romantic wedding, Coll It Entertaining is dedicated to transforming your dreams into reality. She ensures that your event is meticulously organized, reflecting your personal style and preferences. collitentertaining.com @coll.it.entertaining Photography: Hillary C. Photography

The Fairfield Comedy Circle The Fairfield Comedy Circle is a comedy club located at the Circle Hotel in downtown Fairfield, operating standup comedy shows with national headliners every Saturday night. It is also the perfect spot for your special night! We can accommodate groups of all sizes for office parties, birthday parties, fundraisers, benefits and more. fairfieldcomedycircle.com Photography: Rosa Miller, Lamosa Photography CONTINUED > D ECEMB ER 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / FA I R F I E L D

The ideal spot for small plates and curated cocktails during happy hour or your dinner destination. www.southbayct.com | 203-955-1178 | 55 Miller Street, Fairfield, CT 16

GIVING YOUR DOG THE

freedom to explore

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BOARDING

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Could your dog use a little more exercise with some new friends? Come explore all that the pack life has to offer! Located on our private trails, our off-leash group nature hikes are the perfect activity for your pup! With door to door transportation and photos/videos of your dog on the trails, everyone is guaranteed a fun and safe time!

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B U S I N E S S M O N T H LY C O N T I N U E D

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Alina's Cakes and Cookies

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We are a full service bakery specializing in custom cakes, gourmet cupcakes, pastries, cookies and desserts. Our menu is an irresistible blend of comfort-oriented classics, traditional European specialties and elegant baked goods. All items are handcrafted from scratch with the finest natural ingredients. After 10 years in Fairfield, we are proud to announce the opening of our second location in Westport, CT, featuring breads, patisserie and breakfast. alinascakes.com

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Kitchen & Bath | Home Remodeling Space Planning | Furniture & Styling alivanderpooldesign.com D ECEMB ER 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / FA I R F I E L D

AFC handles countless DOT physicals every year, and we know how to get them done efficiently so you can get the necessary paperwork submitted on time. Best of all, you don’t even need an appointment – just stop right in whenever it’s time for your next exam. AFC Fairfield 1918 Blackrock Tpk. Fairfield, CT 203-583-8400

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OPERATION HOPE ARTICLE BY SAMANTHA SCHOENGOLD BERANBOM PHOTOGRAPHY BY DARIUSZ TEREPKA PHOTOGRAPHY

ENDING HUNGER AND HOMELESSNESS, ONE PERSON AT A TIME

Carla Miklos Operation Hope’s Executive Director Operation Hope’s Executive Director, Carla Miklos, has been a community advocate for over two decades, re-focusing her skills as a former leader in banking and corporate real estate to championing local homeless prevention and economic opportunity. Through her dedication and unwavering drive, Carla, along with her invaluable team and volunteers, has navigated Operation Hope’s critical and significant impact on our community.

Q: HOW LONG HAS OPERATION HOPE BEEN AROUND, AND HOW HAS IT EVOLVED OVER THE YEARS? A: Operation Hope began in the early 1980s as a response to the rise of homelessness here in our community. Thanks to the leadership of people like Reverend David Spollett, the former Pastor of First Church Fairfield and Jacky Durrell, the former First Selectwoman of Fairfield, Operation Hope opened a homeless shelter in the old police station on Nichols Street near Reef Road in 1984 to help give those in need a safe place to stay. Soon after we opened our food pantry there and began to help our neighbors who were struggling to put food on their tables. Our community kitchen began offering home cooked meals to those who were hungry. As we evolved, we recognized the

G IV IN G BAC K | L IFE + CULTURE

Carla Miklos, Executive Director

need to build a strong social work component to our agenda, to help our guests with the challenges they were experiencing. We also realized that shelter, while important in the immediate, was not a long-term solution to this problem. Today we offer a comprehensive set of services designed to end hunger and homelessness, one person at a time. Our Homeless Resource Center focuses on homeless outreach, where we engage those who are unsheltered and help them access our system and get off the streets. Our Community Kitchen serves lunch and dinner, which are still provided by our generous neighbors so that others can eat, Monday through Friday, to anyone in need of a meal. A series of Housing First programs are designed to house those affected by homelessness quickly and then wrap around services that will help them stabilize and increase independence. Our Affordable Housing Program is for those in need of long-term affordability and long-term services, while our Case Management Team provides support ranging from information, referral, help with income and employment, housing retention, and clinical support using a variety of best practices and a trauma-informed perspective. Our Food Pantry offers groceries and other basic staples to over 800 local households who are food insecure and trying to make ends meet. We believe that in this town and at this agency, we can create lasting and positive change for our neighbors in need. CONTINUED > D ECEMB ER 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / FA I R F I E L D

“Our programs and services focus on eliminating hunger and homelessness and are designed to help people solve their crises and build stability in an environment where compassion inspires dignity and hope.” Q: WHAT IS THE MISSION AND PRIMARY GOAL OF OPERATION HOPE? A: Operation Hope provides individuals and families the opportunity to experience transformative change. Our programs and services focus on eliminating hunger and homelessness and are designed to help people solve their crises and build stability in an environment where compassion inspires dignity and hope.

Q: WHAT ARE THE MAIN SOURCES OF FOOD DONATIONS AND FUNDING FOR OPERATION HOPE AND FOR THE FOOD PANTRY? A: Operation Hope is blessed that we have a generous community that supports our food pantry. Local people, schools, houses of worship, businesses, volunteer groups and more are major sources of donations for the pantry. From collections, food drives, online purchasing and individuals dropping off groceries – we cannot adequately express what it means to us and to those we serve. People need to eat 365 days a year, so this ongoing support is necessary to be sure that those who rely on us can feed themselves and their families. Funding is a challenge. Our housing and social work programs receive funding through state and federal contracts, but these funding sources do not cover the costs to run those programs, so additional fundraising is always needed. Individual donations make a significant difference and keeps us afloat, along with fundraisers, appeal letters, and reaching out to foundations and other sources. We are so grateful to those who support their struggling neighbors by donating to Operation Hope – you are our lifeline!

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Carla preparing in the Community Kitchen

Q: CAN YOU DESCRIBE THE PROCESS OF HOW FOOD IS COLLECTED, STORED, AND DISTRIBUTED TO CLIENTS? A: The process of running a food pantry like ours is not simple.Our space is limited and that contributes to the challenge. We have many steps to complete, starting with receiving the food and ending with it going home with a pantry patron. We have a team of volunteers that help us with inventory management. Sorting food received is necessary. Then searching for expiration dates and sorting by date as well. We store food clearly labeled by item type and expiration date and rotate food from storage to the shelves accordingly. It is a much bigger operation than one would imagine. Our pantry is open four days a week – Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm, and Thursdays from 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm. We serve residents of Fairfield and Easton, and we also provide food for housing clients of ours living in other nearby communities. People are usually surprised to learn that we serve 800 Fairfield households, most on a regular basis. Patrons can visit the pantry twice a month. When they arrive, they fill out a shopping list to let us know what they need, dietary restrictions or preferences, and number of adults and children in their household. Volunteers fill their bags and we work hard to meet their requests with the food we have on hand. When possible, we can provide additional items like dairy, meats, produce, and home cooked frozen meals. People leave the pantry with enough food to prepare a number of meals before their next visit. CONTINUED >

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Q: HOW HAS THE DEMAND FOR FOOD ASSISTANCE CHANGED IN RECENT YEARS? WHAT ARE THE BIGGEST CHALLENGES OPERATION HOPE FACES? A: There has been a definite increase in the number of individuals and families in need of food in our community. When COVID first hit, there were so many people who were suddenly not working or had their income drastically reduced, children who were not getting their meals at school, seniors who were not able to get out. It really demonstrated how fragile many households are. We were fortunate to be able to pivot to a drive-up, prepacked grocery delivery system thanks to a committed group of staff and volunteers as well as assistance from Fairfield’s CERT (Community Emergency Response Team) and our police and fire departments. And a local group of volunteers, Neighbors Helping Neighbors, inspired the community to pitch in and donate through regular, no contact food drives following a similar

G IV IN G BAC K | L IFE + CULTURE

drive-up model. It was an amazing example of a town coming together to make sure no one failed during a difficult crisis. I would like to tell you that local food insecurity has decreased, but sadly the high numbers continue. It is an honor to be here for those who need us and we appreciate all our supporters who still donate to help ease their neighbors’ struggles. Operation Hope is facing a few challenges. Funding is a big issue for us. We are dependent on donations to provide core programming. I hope people understand how much we need and appreciate the financial support we receive so we can continue to serve our community. Our biggest challenge now is securing a new facility. We have outgrown our two facilities. Finalizing a location and then raising funds to ensure this project is successful is critical to our future, allowing us to be present for the next forty years to meet the needs of our deserving community.

Q: CAN YOU SHARE WHAT PROGRESS LOOK LIKE TO YOU? A: Every time a formerly homeless individual wakes up safe in his own bed, in his own place, with a lock on the door and food in the refrigerator, we have succeeded because he has succeeded. Every time a mom comes home from the pantry and can feed her kids without worrying if she should make the choice to pay the rent or purchase groceries, we have succeeded because she is not in jeopardy of losing her home or going hungry. Every time we are able to lift someone’s burden or help them make a better choice, we are succeeding.

Q: HOW CAN THE COMMUNITY GET INVOLVED IN SUPPORTING OH AND THE FOOD PANTRY? A: There are many ways to support our work, from attending our events, donating to our food pantry, cooking for our community kitchen, supporting our annual appeals, remember us in your planned giving, encouraging your kids to hold neighborhood food drives, introducing us to people who may be able to fund our work or open a door to a foundation or giving opportunity, join our board and more. We are grateful for the support of a giving community. Another way to support us is simple — A kind word or a reminder not to judge others can go a long way to stop the spread of harmful and dismissive talk. Everyone is doing their best to survive and aren’t we the lucky ones who have the ability to make choices that allow us to thrive. Everyone deserves supportive relationships, hope for the future and a place to call home. operationhopect.org CONTINUED >

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DECEMBER 2 1PM A merry musical

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ARTICLE BY SAMANTHA SCHOENGOLD BERANBOM

SHOP LOCAL for the

HOLIDAYS! During the bustling holiday season - look no further than our backyard for the most incredible gift ideas for everyone on your list. We are lucky to live in a town with a robust marketplace where local shops, boutiques and businesses dot our community’s landscape, offering unique treasures, personal services and local goods. As consumers, supporting our local businesses contributes to the overall well-being of our community. As gift-givers - shopping locally will guarantee inspired creativity, whether finding a new artisan or discovering a unique experience. The benefits of shopping local go beyond the hunt for a great gift. Neighborhood shop owners typically offer a level of personalized services to their community that is hard to find anywhere else - making hectic holiday shopping more enjoyable. Shopping small can also positively impact the environment, reducing long distances for shipping and transportation. So, after checking that list twice, rediscover some of the small businesses in our area for all your gift-giving needs. Happy Shopping!

The Best Gift Ideas Are In Our Town

G IF T GU ID E | SHOPPIN G

Classic Cable Knit Cardigan in Flax Retail Price: $168 | shopmarea.com For your stylish wife, check out lifestyle brand Marea for the must-haves fashion finds of the season including sweaters, sweatshirts, block print tote bags and jewelry.

Marea's Cable Knit Cardigan Stephanie Elliott Photography

White Sangria from Fresh Flower Bar Delaney Carroll Photography

White Sangria Bouquet Retail price: $139 | freshflowerbar.com Perfect for a co-worker or the teachers on your list, Fresh Flower Bar offers beautiful arrangements. Or for Grandparents give the gift of a monthly subscription of seasonal floral arrangements with free delivery. Also available, the Forget Me Not Package, a flower delivery service on 5 special occasions of your choosing.

Best Laid Plans by photographer Jill Mason at No. 299

Best Laid Plans by photographer Jill Mason Retail price: $139 | @no299blog Looking for that unique gift for the amateur decorator in your life? Head over to No. 299 for an array of chic home goods and decor. Great ideas include a lux Alpaca Throw or Brooklyn Candle Studio’s moody and sophisticated Black Cardamom double wick candle or choose a coastal print from photographer Jill Mason in a handmade wood frame.

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Dew Bomb Glowy Hydrating Milk Retail Price: $52 | yourizzy.com A great gift your daughter or for any beauty influencer in your life, are products from clean beauty brand Izzy. Izzy offers cruelty and zero waste products including perfect stocking stuffers like the buildable and refillable Zero Waste Mascara, the hydrating Glossy Lip Butter and the moisturizing Dew Bomb Glowy Hydrating Milk. Izzy is exclusively available in selection locations including another local favorite, Yoga For Everybody.

Photo by: Jeff Bravo

Diamond Collar Vest Bra Retail Price: $36 | prumatt.com

Serenity Flared Trousers Retail Price: $78 |prumatt.com For the workout enthusiast or even for that hectic mom, Prumatt offers for your daughter a great selection of activewear including a variety of leggings, sport bras and workout accessories. Now thru December 30th receive 30% on all orders.

Gift Certificate for 2 Hikes Retail Price: $125 | activedog.org Add this to your pet lover’s list. Active Dog is known for keeping dogs happy in nature with exercise and socialization, as well as their grooming and boarding services. This season give the gift of a supervised nature hike which includes transportation or a more casual daily walk.

This cute crew is off to a supervised nature hike with Active Dog

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Popshop Market Holiday Market

EVENTS The Holiday Markets in the area are another great way to shop local and discover new local brands and artisans:

Popshop Market Holiday Market

Holiday Shop & Stroll

December 2nd | FTC | 10AM-2:30PM

December 6th | Downtown | 6PM-9PM

Shop a curated mix of elevated vendors and find something unique for someone special. Show your support for small businesses and shop small for the holidays @popshopmarket

Enjoy a festive evening of local shopping with special discounts at participating stores. Find the latest in fashion, home decor, jewelry, toys, sporting goods, books and more. experiencefairfieldct.org

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Snow banks & Ice

The QR code on the left shows how the front (shorter) vessel was made. The QR code on the right shows how the two taller vessels were made - both in our Round Hill Rd, Fairfield studio.

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Gnocchi and Sweet Sausage

A Family Af fair

ARTICLE BY SAMANTHA SCHOENGOLD BERANBOM PHOTOGRAPHY BY DARIUSZ TEREPKA PHOTOGRAPHY

Sonia’s Gourmet Kitchen

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They say food tastes better when you eat with family. The same could also be said when you cook together. Sonia’s Gourmet Kitchen is a family-owned and operated business offering classic dishes for the whole family, prepared by Sonia’s whole family. “My favorite thing about owning a restaurant is that I

get the opportunity to work with my family: my mom Conchita, my husband Marvin, my son Julian, my daughter Jasmine and my sister Marilu.” Sonia has always been passionate about cooking, especially alongside her mother. After years of working in restaurants with

many talented chefs, she acquired her trademark of traditional Mediterranean and Latin Cuisines. Following a stint in Norwalk, Sonia and her husband, Marvin, loved the idea of opening a place closer to home. They found that ideal spot in Fairfield - street level, convenient, close to the CONTINUED >

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Post Road and I-95, with ample parking - it was exactly what they were looking for. Working tirelessly for nine months to rebuild the outdated space, they were able to see their vision through. Sonia’s Gourmet Kitchen has a charming modern, rustic ambiance that is cozy and casual, the look and feeling this husband and wife team were striving for. Using only the highest quality of simple, fresh ingredients, Sonia and Marvin collaborate to create unique dishes that have become their signature. They also make sure each and every occasion is as special as each dish - welcoming families again and again. Because this loving family is at the helm, the atmosphere is always warm and inviting - the perfect space to share quality time with loved ones over delicious food. Sonia elaborates, “My husband and I love creating an unforgettable experience. Seeing all the new and familiar happy faces makes us so appreciative of all the guests we have had the pleasure of meeting. This is what keeps us going.” During the holidays, SGK likes to create seasonal specials with a twist and a festive, joyful mood. “We love adding new flower arrangements on every table to match every season, setting a welcoming tone.” Sonia’s thoughtful tip for entertaining at your home during the holidays is another example of how family is at her core. “Choose a dish that you feel comfortable cooking. Take advantage of the holiday season to create wonderful memories with your loved ones, get everyone involved in the art of cooking, using simple ingredients, preparing it with love and enjoying a tasty dish.” Try this SGK dish with loved ones at home for the holidays. CONTINUED >

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The charming rustic interior

“My favorite thing about owning a restaurant is that I get the opportunity to work with my family.”

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GNOCCHI AND SWEET SAUSAGE SERVES: 2 TOOLS: Chef knife, sauté pan, tongs INGREDIENTS: • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

10 oz of sweet Italian crumble sausages 10 oz of fresh gnocchi 1 Tablespoon of chopped shallots 1/2 Teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes 2 oz of corn kernels 2 oz of green peas 2 oz of heavy cream 1 oz of tomato sauce 6 oz of chicken broth 2 oz of pecorino Romano cheese 2 oz of white wine Chablis 2 oz of butter Salt and pepper to taste 1 oz of Shaved Parmesan cheese

DIRECTIONS: 1. Cook the gnocchi in boiling salted water for about 4 minutes, drain the water and put it aside. 2. Heat sauté pan on medium-high heat, add oil, then the Crumble sausages until golden brown and cooked through. 3. Get rid of excess fat from the sausages, add shallots, corn, peas, white wine, butter, crushed red pepper, salt & pepper and chicken broth. 4. Wait a few minutes. Once it’s boiling add heavy cream, tomato sauce and Pecorino Romano. 5. Add cooked gnocchi, stir in sauté pan for couple of minutes and it’s ready to serve. 6. Plate and garnish with shaved parmesan cheese.

Sonia and family

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The City Lifestyle

Giving Campaign

2023 44

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“

This Giving Campaign is all about personally impacting the lives of people we know with an unexpected check in the mail just to say that someone thought of them this holiday season.”

The annual City Lifestyle Giving Campaign is in its 4th year. Last holiday season we gave away over $300,000 to help 116 individuals and families in need, but we need your help to make it happen again this year. With nominations flooding in from community members and leaders such as judges, police officers, teachers, nurses, social workers, mentors and readers like you, we were able to reach people who might otherwise go unnoticed. Perhaps you know of a single parent struggling to provide for their family, an elderly person who has experienced loss, someone enduring a health issue, a co-worker suffering a sudden, unexpected tragedy or a neighbor with a financial hardship who has fallen between the cracks of getting assistance. Chances are you know someone with a specific need, even if no one else does. “We believe in giving back and serving the communities where we live in a real and tangible way,” says Steven Schowengerdt, CEO and founder of City Lifestyle. “This Giving Campaign is about personally impacting the lives of people we know with an unexpected check in the mail just to say that someone thought of them during this holiday season.” “We believe God has blessed our company with continued success, so we in turn want to be a blessing to others,” Matthew Perry, President of City Lifestyle adds. City Lifestyle has also enacted an internal giving program whereby every employee in the company receives $100 to give away to someone in the community. “The idea is to encourage our employees to keep giving on their own,” Steven says. “Taking care of one another and blessing others is truly rewarding and it perpetuates a cycle of giving. It’s extremely important to me as a person and as a company to foster a culture of generosity.”

Scan Code to

Nominate Nominations accepted Nov. 27 – Dec. 10, 2023

Follow @CityLifestyle on Instagram for reminders! To submit a nomination, follow @CityLifestyle on Instagram and fill out the form found in the bio link. All entries will be read, and because this is not a raffle, there is no need to nominate someone more than once. The amount given to each recipient will be based on need. All nominations and recipients will be kept confidential. D ECEMB ER 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / FA I R F I E L D

Holiday Entertaining Boards The holidays are here and entertaining is in full swing. If you are looking for the perfect appetizer to easily feed a crowd these simple and beautiful boards are sure to please.

ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES

PA RT Y P LA N N IN G | FOOD + BE VE RAGE

Tips for creating the perfect board: • Start with the larger items first and build around those. If you are using jars on the board, place those first. • Be sure to have enough to fill the space. it is best to overfill so that the board doesn’t look sparse. Stack, stack and stack some more. • Use a variety of colors and textures when choosing the foods you want to use. Pick cheese with color and patterns, fruits and veggies that come in a variety of textures and colors and a protein that can make a statement. • Be sure to place similar colors in away from each other to help give symmetry.

Holiday Wreath Charcuterie Board • • • • •

Fig Jelly Honey Variety of Cheeses Salami or meat of choice Olives (provide a variety)

• Walnuts, Pecans, Pistachios and any favorite nut • Grapes, berries, persimmon • Crackers

Place the jars of sauces and olives on the board first. Next place the cheeses on opposing sides. Add meats and fruits next. Layer in crackers, nuts and seeds and fill in any spots with extra nuts. Use fresh Rosemary or fresh greenery to add wreath accent in the center of the charcuterie board. Garnish with fresh cranberries.

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F L I P Fa b r i q u e Blizzard

April 14 & 15 • 7 p.m.

Want some Holiday Cheer? Purchase $100 in gift certificates and enjoy one free ticket by calling the Quick Center Box Office at 203-254-4010 and mention Fairfield Lifestyle. Offer valid until December 15, 2023.

203.254.4010 • QuickCenter.com

COMPLIMENTARY CONSULTATIONS

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Based in Fairfield, CT, we have worked in and around the state of Connecticut since 1999. Check us out on: Cost is determined by the job. No travel charges. D ECEMB ER 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / FA I R F I E L D

DECEMBER 2023

events A curated selection of the most intriguing upcoming events in our area.

D EC E M BE R 2 N D

Winter Whimsy

O L D TOW N HALL & MUS EUM C O MMO NS | 4 :0 0 P M Enjoy the the Annual Tree Lighting along with food trucks, music, a petting zoo, pictures with Santa and carriage rides more! 4:15PM-7PM D EC E M BE R 2 N D

Holiday Express Train Show Grand Opening

FA IR FIELD MUS EUM & HISTORY C E NT E R | 5 :0 0 P M See the new displays of the Holiday Express Train Show! Young and old alike will delight in the model trains winding around spectacular winter villages and beautiful holiday scenery. $3 per person, $10 per family. fairfieldhistory.org DE C E M BE R 9 T H

Junior League of Eastern Fairfield County New Member Social

CA N DLEWOOD MARKET & TEA E MP O R I UM | 9 :0 0 A M New to the area and looking to connect with likeminded women? Join this open house to learn all about becoming a member of the Junior League of Eastern Fairfield County. Come alone or bring a friend. easternfairfieldcounty.jl.org D EC E M BE R 1 5T H

Livingston Taylor & Karla Bonoff – Home For the Holidays

SHU COMMUN ITY THEATRE | 8 :0 0 P M Karla Bonoff and Livingston Taylor come Home for the Holidays with a seasonally spiced show that will remind you of what a wonderful time of the year it is. Karla Bonoff, one of her generation’s great songwriters, and Livingston Taylor, entertainer extraordinaire, have joined forces for an unforgettable performance of song and joy. For tickets visit shucommunitytheatre.org. D E C E M BE R 1 6T H- 1 7 T H

DE C EM BE R 1 6T H

Breakfast with Frosty

BEARDS LEY ZOO | 8 :00 AM Breakfast with Frosty! A full buffet breakfast in the Carousel Building includes a visit with Santa and his elf, photo opportunities with Frosty the Snowman, Stripes the Tiger and Thirsty the Penguin, carousel rides and lots of family fun. These breakfasts sell out every year, so be sure to reserve your spot early! $25 per person. beardsleyzoo.org

ROCK4RV Holiday Concert

PA RK CITY MUS IC HALL | 6:30 P M A of night live music with Jack Goode and Simple Jim bringing you high-energy modern and classic rock! Also a 50/50 Raffle, Ugly Sweater Contest, photo booth and a special visit from Santa Claus! ROCK4RV Holiday Concert is in memory of Robert (Bob) Vitanza, who succumbed to Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease. All proceeds fund research grants for the CJD Foundation, Inc. rock4rv.com

Want to be featured?

Get in touch by heading over to our landing page to connect: CityLifestyle.com/Fairfield

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