Milford, CT April 2026

Foundations of Trust

As we welcome spring and look ahead to warmer days, this issue of Milford City Lifestyle turns our attention to the foundations that keep our community strong – the institutions, professionals, and partnerships that help us build secure futures.

Investment takes many forms. Sometimes it's financial, the careful planning and saving that prepares us for tomorrow. Other times it's relational, the trust we place in advisors who guide us through life's most important decisions. And often, it's deeply personal, emphasizing the commitment to preserving what matters.

In this issue, we explore all these dimensions through the stories of Milford businesses and professionals who embody them. The Milford Bank has been a cornerstone of our town for generations, and their historic building stands as a testament to enduring service and community investment. Their story reminds us that the strongest institutions are built on trusting relationships between businesses and their clientele.

We're also proud to introduce you to two remarkable law firms that call Milford home. At Cody & Gonillo LLP, married couple Chris and Christine have built a practice rooted in partnership – both personal and professional. Their approach to law reflects the collaborative spirit that defines our city. Meanwhile, Tom and Michael Lynch of Lynch, Trembicki & Boynton share insights from decades of serving Milford families and businesses, offering wisdom that only comes from deep community roots.

These professionals understand that investing in people and relationships is just as crucial as any financial strategy. They've chosen to plant themselves here, to grow their practices alongside our growing city, and to serve neighbors who become friends.

And speaking of investing in community, we couldn't resist giving you a preview of something exciting on the horizon. This October, the Milford Arts Council will host its inaugural Jazz'n Downtown festival, bringing live music, local vendors, and vibrant energy to our streets. It's exactly the kind of event that makes Milford special: creative, welcoming, and always evolving.

Whether you're planning your financial future, seeking trusted legal counsel, or simply dreaming about autumn evenings filled with jazz, this issue celebrates the many ways we invest in what matters most: our community, our relationships, and the place we call home.

MARK ARNOLD, PUBLISHER @MILFORDCITYLIFESTYLE

April 2026

PUBLISHER

Mark Arnold | mark.arnold@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Chelsea Spata | chelsea.spata@citylifestyle.com

INTERNS

Gavin Conte, Kayla Markowitz, Harshitha Kothapalli, Fiorella Gargiuolo, Isabella Mora

STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER

Mark Arnold | mark.arnold@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Gavin Conte, Kayla Markowitz

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Cliff Schorr, Fiorella Gargiuolo

Corporate Team

CEO Steven Schowengerdt

President Matthew Perry

COO David Stetler

CRO Jamie Pentz

CoS Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Rachel Chrisman

LAYOUT DESIGNER Lillian Gibbs

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Marina Campbell

• Sleep disruption

• Mood shifts or anxiety

• Reduced desire

• Fatigue

• Weight changes

• Irregular cycles

• Night sweats

Milford Med Spa

Women’s Hormone Care Evidence-Based. Insurance Accepted.

Change the Stat t c Change the Statistic

Perimenopause often begins in your late 30s, years before your final menses, yet only 5–10% of eligible women receive hormone therapy . The result? Unnecessary symptoms and increased risk of cardiovascular disease, osteoporosis, metabolic dysfunction, and cognitive decline. Hormone care is preventive medicine. At Milford Med Spa, we offer s tructured, evidence-based evaluations and personalized treatment plans design ed to restore vitality and protect lifelong health. Insurance and private-pay options available. It’s Time to Change the Statistic. Schedule Now.

SPRING AWAKENING BY THE RADIANCE MD

Spring is about fresh starts and your skin deserves one too. After months of coldweather, dryness, and stress, regenerative treatments like microneeding with exosomes help stimulate collagen, repair damage, and restore radiance form with in think of it as a deep clean for your skin cells-not just the surface.

Results you can see and feel. March specials & custom treatment plans available. Book your spring skin reset today.

Jennifer Dilungo, PA-C

Sherif Saleh, MD

Juliana Maria Arbelaez Linero, APRN

Jessica Sarkisian, APRN

Veronica Ahlgrim, NURSE INJECTOR

city scene

NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

business monthly

Purple Pantry Boxes is Milford's Best Neighbor

Founded in 2020 by Susan Brown, Purple Pantry Boxes operates 18 free food pantries throughout Milford and surrounding areas, distributing over 18,000 items monthly to combat food insecurity. The 100% volunteer-run organization maintains pantries accessible 24/7 with no barriers—simply "take what you need, donate what you can." Volunteers are needed for pantry filling, food drives, grant writing, and social media. All donations go directly to feeding neighbors in need.

Soul Fit 360 Puts Your Wellness First

Soul Fit 360 is a holistic wellness coaching practice for busy women and moms in their 30s and 40s who are ready to feel their best from the inside out. Led by Jeannie, a certified NASM personal trainer, nutrition coach, and gut and hormone health specialist, Soul Fit 360 takes a bio-individual approach — no cookie-cutter plans, just personalized strategies designed around your unique body and lifestyle. Because true wellness starts within.

Al Pastor Mexican Grill Brings Bold Flavor to Milford

Craving fresh, bold Mexican food? Al Pastor Mexican Grill on Boston Post Road is your new go-to. Build your own tacos, burritos, bowls, quesadillas, or salads with proteins like carne asada, smoky al pastor, birria, and more. With generous portions, fresh ingredients, and friendly service, it's fast-casual dining done right. Plus, catering and taco truck options make every event a fiesta.

Milford’s

Orthodontist Since 1968

Our focus is always on you and your smile

Dr. Gary Opin and Dr. Perry Opin understand that changing a person’s smile can change a person’s life. Throughout your entire orthodontic experience, they will be attentive to your comfort, will listen to and respect your treatment goals and concerns, and partner with you to achieve a lifetime of smiles. At Opin Wide Orthodontics, our doctors develop lasting relationships with our patients and their families, while providing a superior level of care to create healthy, engaging smiles. For over 55 years, we have been leveraging state-of-the-art treatments to provide our patients with highly individualized, effective care.

ARTICLE BY GAVIN CONTE | PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARK ARNOLD

The Team to Beat

Christine Gonillo and Christopher Cody on three decades of partnership, practice, and staying curious

Before they shared an office, a practice, or the vow of marriage, Christine Gonillo and Christopher Cody were circling the same streets without knowing it. Both grew up in Connecticut, became lawyers, and worked just doors apart in the Milford downtown area.

Their story began in 1986, when the New Haven County Bar Association organized a Mother’s Day race as part of New Haven’s 300th anniversary celebration. When a last-minute police work action redirected the runners, Chris – an on-edge participant – came face to face with Christine, a volunteer, whose first thought was, “Boy, he’s intense and stressed.”

Today, the two practice law together, though neither of them arrived in the profession through a straight path. Chris grew up in a family business; his father was a funeral director at the nearby Cody White Funeral Home. The straightforward nature of the work sparked his curiosity for law, where he saw a chance to investigate and interpret in a way he hadn’t before. A congressional internship in Washington, D.C. introduced him to the fast-paced climate of young professionals. He reflects, “Working in Washington was a revelation... it’s like, who wouldn’t want to be here?”

Christine came to law later: she took a year between undergraduate studies and law school to intern at a firm in Massachusetts, testing the profession before choosing a career path.

Like most young lawyers new to the profession, they did whatever their firms needed, often improvising or seeking guidance along the way. “You know, you learn a lot on the job, because they don’t teach you every single thing in law school,” Christine remembers.

Chris started during a real estate boom and found himself drafting condominium documents and closing construction loans. When the market collapsed, those clients vanished almost overnight. At six years in – the traditional moment when partnership decisions are made – Chris found himself jobless. So, he opened his own firm in 1989.

Christine’s path was steadier but no less demanding. She built her skills by learning everything she could, paying attention to details, statutes, and the more granular aspects of practicing. Despite their different approaches, they both believed that family businesses are the team to beat; family will do for each other what no employee ever would.

“You learn a lot on the job, because they don't teach you every single thing in law school.”

Approaching three decades of practicing together, they have watched the practice of law transform completely. They started in massive law libraries, where “cut and paste” meant scissors and glue, and research took days. Now, everything is digital. Courts are online, as hearings moved to Zoom and Teams, and the technology changed faster than anyone expected with the rise of artificial intelligence. But their philosophy hasn’t wavered.

The law, they believe, was never about knowing every statute and rule. It was about asking the right questions and understanding what motivates people.

Their advice for anyone considering law: study people as much as you study legal principles, understand how business actually works, and stay curious. Careers rarely follow the paths we map out for them.

CUSTOM FENCING SOLUTIONS

Three Generations, One Commitment

A FATHER-SON LAW PRACTICE

SERVING MILFORD FOR 77 YEARS

ARTICLE BY CHELSEA SPATA | PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARK ARNOLD

On a frigid February morning, Tom and Michael Lynch pull into the parking lot of their Cherry Street office together, fresh from their daily coffee run to Dunkin’ Donuts. It’s a small ritual: twenty minutes in the car, father and son, talking about life and work before the day officially begins.

In 1949, after graduating from Yale Law School and serving on General Douglas MacArthur’s staff in post-World War II Japan, Richard Lynch returned to Connecticut and opened a solo law practice in Milford. That small office marked the beginning of what would become a 77-year legacy. Today, Lynch, Trembicki & Boynton operates under Richard’s son, Tom, and grandson, Michael, who are hard at work serving clients with the same commitment to personalized service that Richard established decades ago.

Tom Lynch joined his father’s practice in 1980 after graduating from UConn Law School. He knew from a young age this was his path – his academic interests in history and political science pointed naturally toward law, and watching his father work only confirmed it. “I enjoy what I do,” Tom says simply. “I’m fortunate to have a very active practice.”

That practice has kept him busy for 46 years now, handling everything from zoning work for commercial real estate to estate planning and administration. It’s the variety that makes it rewarding. “Every week I get calls from clients with differing legal needs,” he explains. “That’s what makes it so enjoyable.”

Richard Lynch served as Milford’s town attorney until 1963, building connections that helped shape his practice for decades. He partnered with John Ronan for 20 years until Ronan was appointed a Superior Court judge in 1984. The partnership was one Tom remembers fondly – Ronan was a man of great integrity who helped set the tone for how the firm would operate.

Today, the firm includes partners Alex Trembicki, Tom’s classmate from law school and a seasoned

trial attorney, and Michael Boynton, a former public defender who concentrates on criminal law. But perhaps the most significant addition came when Tom’s son Michael joined the practice after graduating from Quinnipiac Law School in 2012.

Michael’s path to law wasn’t as predetermined as his father’s. He was a late bloomer academically, he admits, finding his focus in high school when he became class president at Foran. At Fairfield University, he studied history and political science, but it was the public speaking and community engagement that really drew him toward law. “I didn’t want to work for some big firm in New York City,” he says. “I’m very homegrown.”

That local connection has become Michael’s greatest asset. During his college and law school summers, he bartended at Stonebridge, building relationships that would later become professional ones. “Most of the people are all clients of mine now,” he says. “It’s nice being so active in the community.”

The firm’s practice covers the fundamental legal needs most people encounter throughout their lives. Michael focuses heavily on residential real estate, along with wills, trusts, estates, and small business formation. Many clients start with a house closing, then return for estate planning, and later for other family needs.

This is precisely the kind of accessibility the firm prides itself on. For people who have never worked with an attorney, the practice offers a reassuring entry point. Michael makes himself available, understanding that in the digital age, quick communication can make the difference between gaining or losing a client. He’s intentional about keeping things personal, meeting clients face-to-face whenever possible, even during COVID when he conducted closings outdoors with documents and hand sanitizer.

“At the end of the day, you’re helping people,” Michael says. “You’re taking on their stress, putting yourself in their shoes. They look to you for guidance.”

“Every week I get calls from clients with differing legal needs. That’s what makes it so enjoyable.”

Tom has spent his entire life in Milford and has watched the city transform. He believes the Planning and Zoning Board has done excellent work ensuring responsible development. “Milford hasn’t lost its character,” he insists. “I think Milford’s just progressed greatly. It’s a wonderful town.”

Michael echoes this sentiment. As president of the Milford Bar Association, he works to grow the organization and support the greater community. His family is out every weekend supporting local businesses, attending city events, and participating in everything from the tree lighting to the downtown festivals.

Tom’s vision for Milford’s future is equally optimistic. He’d like to see the city continue to grow, maintain its strong educational system, and welcome the diversity that’s emerged in recent years. As for the firm itself, the goal is simple: maintain the quality of work while perhaps finding ways to streamline processes, allowing more time for family and life outside the office. Michael hopes to carry on the legacy his grandfather started, possibly even seeing one of his own children join the practice someday – though he’s quick to add that there’s no pressure.

For now, Lynch, Trembicki & Boynton continues doing what it’s done for 77 years: providing accessible, personalized legal services to Milford families and businesses, one client at a time.

“At the end of the day, you're helping people. You're taking on their stress, putting yourself in their shoes. They look to you for guidance.”

Lynch and

family

Beyond Pain Relief.

Most people don’t just want relief — they want to understand the root cause. Pain is often the final signal, not the first.

At Clukey Family Chiropractic, we assess spinal structure and nervous system function with precision, identifying the underlying interference that affects how your body performs. Because lasting health starts at the source.

Care designed for families who value resilience, strength, and longterm function.

Hi, I’m Jeannie! I’m a Women’s Holistic Wellness Coach specializing in gut and hormone health, a Certified NASM Personal Trainer, Nutrition Coach, and hands-on stretch specialist. My mission is to help busy women and moms in their 30s and 40s reconnect with themselves and embody their best, most aligned selves, whether that’s in the gym or from the comfort of home.

www.soulfit360.com 203-993-5482 500 Boston Post Rd, Unit 10 Orange, CT 06477

Invested in You

THE PARTNERS AT COASTAL BRIDGE ADVISORS TALK TRUST AND COMMUNITY

Lise Robinson, Senior Partner, Wealth Advisor

In Milford, Connecticut, life moves to a coastal rhythm shaped by connection and trust. Neighbors look out for one another, local businesses are anchored in relationships, and shared experiences strengthen community ties. That same steady foundation guides Coastal Bridge Advisors. Like the tides and changing seasons along the shoreline, clients turn to steady guidance and long-term partnerships to navigate financial milestones.

LISE ROBINSON

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE THING ABOUT LIVING IN MILFORD?

My favorite thing about living in Milford is its centralized location, beautiful beaches, and strong sense of community. My involvement with the Milford Rotary Club has deepened that connection, giving me the opportunity to collaborate with local leaders and friends who are dedicated to giving back and making a meaningful impact.

WHAT MAKES YOU DIFFERENT FROM OTHER FINANCIAL ADVISORS?

What sets me apart is my experience working closely with not just individuals and families, but also nonprofit endowments and the board members who oversee them.  This has given me a deep appreciation for fiduciary responsibility, transparency, and the broad reach that our financial decisions and plans have in supporting our clients and the communities around us.

JR Romano, Partner, Wealth Advisor

JR ROMANO

WHAT IS IT LIKE TO WORK WITH A FINANCIAL ADVISOR, AND HOW OFTEN DO WE MEET?

Working with a financial advisor should feel collaborative, organized, and reassuring—not overwhelming. It begins with a thoughtful conversation about your goals and values, followed by a personalized plan. From there, ongoing guidance and adjustments are designed to support you through life’s changes and market shifts.

WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO BE A FIDUCIARY FINANCIAL ADVISOR?

As a registered investment adviser, I’m held to a fiduciary standard, meaning I’m legally required to act in my clients’ best interests. That includes offering recommendations based solely on their needs and maintaining full transparency around fees, conflicts, and decision-making.

JIM BETZIG

WHY WAS IT IMPORTANT FOR YOU TO BUILD YOUR FIRM HERE IN MILFORD?

I was born and raised in Milford, so founding an independent Registered Investment Advisory firm here was both natural and personal. This community shaped my values and work ethic, inspiring me to build a firm grounded in trust and transparency. Serving local families and organizations means investing in the community that shaped me. For me, it’s about more than financial planning — it’s about investing in and giving back to the Milford community that has given so much to me.

“Working with a financial advisor should feel collaborative, organized, and reassuring—not overwhelming.”

“Supporting neighbors’ financial security makes this work deeply personal and truly fulfilling.”

Matt Coutcher, Partner, Wealth Advisor

Jim Betzig, Partner, CEO

MATT COUTCHER

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE THING ABOUT BEING A FINANCIAL ADVISOR?

What I love most about being a financial advisor is helping people navigate pivotal moments in life from retirement planning to navigating a major life transition—with clarity and confidence. In a close-knit community like Milford, relationships extend beyond the office. Being a part of our neighbors’ financial planning makes this work deeply personal and truly fulfilling.

HOW DO YOU INTEGRATE TAX PLANNING AND WILL YOU WORK WITH MY CPA?

Tax planning is an essential part of any comprehensive financial plan, and that’s largely why I decided to get my Masters in Taxation. I work closely with clients to integrate tax-aware strategies into investments, retirement income, and charitable giving, while also working in tandem with clients and their CPAs to deliver coordinated, efficient planning and strive to reduce unexpected tax surprises.

Coastal Bridge Advisors is a Registered Investment Adviser. SEC Registration does not constitute an endorsement by the SEC nor does it indicate that Coastal Bridge Advisors has attained a particular level of skill or ability. The information provided here is for general educational purposes only and does not constitute tax, legal, or investment advice. Results may vary, and past performance is not indicative of future results. Clients should consult their own advisors for guidance tailored to their individual circumstances.

Banking on Community

The Milford Bank's 150-year commitment to the people it serves

ARTICLE BY KAYLA MARKOWITZ

PHOTOGRAPHY BY CLIFF SCHORR, MARK ARNOLD

For more than 150 years, The Milford Bank has been a staple for citizens and businesses alike, offering advice, support, and a deep-rooted commitment to the local community. Providing more than just financial services, it is a long-lasting institution that has weathered world wars and economic recessions while keeping its priorities constant: to ensure that Milford citizens trust that they have the support of their local bank.

As Bank President and CEO Jorge Santiago puts it: “We have been a part of this community since 1872, and throughout these years, our mission has remained the same: to ensure that our neighbors thrive, local businesses flourish, and our community remains strong and resilient.”

Every day, thousands of citizens rely on The Milford Bank for personalized financial services from trustworthy and dedicated bankers. A vital element to countless local businesses, restaurants, and residents, the bank plays a crucial role in supporting Milford’s economic growth and community stability.

Lasse’s Restaurant owner Scott Rohrig explains why he has chosen The Milford Bank for over 50 years. “It’s a personal bank where I can call somebody if I need something right away,” Rohrig says. Doing business with The Milford Bank provides benefits like accessibility and familiarity, which set it apart from larger national institutions. “If I need a credit advance, change for our business, or to cash a large check, it’s readily available without a problem. And their staff is so friendly.”

What sets the bank apart from larger national banks is the culture of community it creates by engaging with customers and supporting local initiatives. Every year, the bank donates hundreds of thousands of dollars to organizations such as Bridges, the Beth-El Center, the Boys & Girls Club, and many more. Santiago emphasizes that “the profits we generate are going back to help our neighbors.”

Aside from donations, the bank proves its commitment to Milford by participating in service events throughout the year, such as serving meals at the Storehouse Project’s community dining center, hosting the Milford Moves for Veterans 5K walk/run, and leading the Nourishing Neighbors campaign, which raised over $25,000 to combat food insecurity. “Banking with The Milford Bank means your money will stay in your local community and help your friends and neighbors,” Santiago says.

Their contributions to the local community have had a significant impact on many organizations in Milford. Through donations, loans, and grants, The Milford Bank plays an active role in sustaining the community it serves. Helen Lamhs from the Milford Historical Society emphasizes the bank’s lasting influence, saying, “The Milford Bank has always been supportive of the community at large, particularly through its Foundation, which supports local non-profit organizations. The Milford Historical Society is honored to have been a TMB Foundation grant recipient.”

“We have been a part of this community since 1872, and throughout these years, our mission has remained the same: to ensure that our neighbors thrive, local businesses flourish, and our community remains strong and resilient.”

With a promise to Milford residents, the bank offers a wide range of services to align with the growing needs of the Milford community. From mortgages with as little as a 3% down payment and first-time homebuyer programs with discounted fees and rates, to a Credit Builder loan program that helps people rebuild their credit, the priority is always to serve customers with affordable and convenient options. Beyond residents, the bank also offers services tailored to help local businesses flourish, including flexible loans with low minimums. “We can help a newer small-business owner obtain a $5,000 line of credit or assist a more established business in purchasing a multi-million-dollar property,” Santiago explains.

Building a trusting relationship with a bank is crucial when working toward financial goals, and The Milford Bank understands that when it comes to finances, customers should be more than just an

account number. Having one-on-one conversations rather than speaking with an online chatbot can make all the difference, which helps explain why so many Milford residents choose The Milford Bank. As Santiago explains, “I believe that every account belongs to a person or a business with a unique story. I want to hear those stories and help whenever possible.” In a world of national chains and digital banking, The Milford Bank continues to prove that sometimes the strongest investment you can make is in your own community.

Grammy winners, brunch performers, and more — here's what's coming October 3

JAZZ'N DOWNTOWN LINEUP TAKES SHAPE

ARTICLE BY CHELSEA SPATA | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

On October 3, the Milford Arts Council (MAC) presents its firstever Jazz’n Downtown festival. While the full lineup is still to be revealed, a few names offer a taste of what’s in store. Grammywinning pianist Zaccai Curtis — half of the Curtis Brothers, who wowed MAC audiences just last November — will take the stage fresh off his January 2026 Latin Jazz Album win. Brass Queens, a dynamic young ensemble bringing fresh energy to the genre, rounds out this early preview. And for those lucky enough to snag a coveted spot, Chino Pons will perform at an intimate, limited-ticket brunch at Stonebridge Restaurant.

“When you’re walking through, you’re going to hear blues, Spanish, swing, woodwinds, and horns,” says booking agent Stephanie Sands, who leveraged her deep connections in the jazz community to assemble the lineup. “It’s almost like the history of jazz on display in one day.”

Sands approached performer selection with both intentionality and heart, calling in favors from friends and family across the industry to bring world-class talent to Milford on a first-festival budget.

Central to her philosophy is ensuring that musicians feel genuinely celebrated. “When we give them the integrity and respect for what they do, they in turn give the audience the magic,” she says.

Mayor Rich Smith echoed that enthusiasm: “I could not be more excited. It promises world-class music, a boost to local businesses, and a vibrant experience for our residents and visitors alike.”

For local arts advocates like Phil Conine, owner of Stonebridge Restaurant, the festival represents something even larger. “I truly believe in music’s ability to unite people, inspire creativity, and cultivate connections,” he says. “Live music creates a shared experience that resonates profoundly within our community.”

Sands is quick to credit MAC Executive Director Paige Miglio for dreaming bigger than anyone anticipated. “I thought our festival was going to be a couple of acts on a stage,” she laughs. “She said, ‘No — we’re going to take over downtown.’”

Mark your calendars. Jazz’n Downtown is coming, and Milford is ready.

Redefining MVP: TIM TEBOW’S LIFE BEYOND FOOTBALL

An exclusive Q&A with City Lifestyle

ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD

PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

From championship trophies to global humanitarian impact, Tim Tebow’s journey has defied every standard playbook. In an exclusive conversation for the Share the Lifestyle podcast, Tebow pulls back the curtain on the moments that truly defined him, from a humbling middle school church retreat to the life-altering shift of fatherhood. This isn’t just a look back at a career; it’s an invitation into the heart of a man driven by purpose. Read the highlights below, then join us for the full, unfiltered experience by scanning the QR code at the end.

Q: WE ALL KNOW YOUR ACCOMPLISHMENTS ON THE FOOTBALL FIELD, BUT TELL US ABOUT THE CURL CONTEST.

A: I was competing for my future high school team (my brother’s team), and I pushed myself way past what was smart. I ended up collapsing and needing medical attention. But what stayed with me wasn’t the pain, it was the lesson. Would I be willing to do something that others aren’t? For much of my life, I strived to bring my best for a game, but I hope that I can say at the end of my life I was willing to do that for things that actually matter.

Q: YOU’VE ACHIEVED SO MUCH IN SPORTS. WHAT WOULD YOU SAY IS YOUR GREATEST ACCOMPLISHMENT NOW?

A: Becoming a dad. Nothing compares. From the moment I knew my wife was pregnant, I felt a new depth of love for our child, but when you bring your baby home, the responsibility hits you like nothing else. Suddenly, everything you see, every decision you make, you’re asking, “Is this corner too sharp? What happens if she reaches that drawer?” It changes how you see the world and how you see other people.

Q: YOU’VE SPOKEN OPENLY ABOUT DISAPPOINTMENT, ESPECIALLY AROUND FOOTBALL. HOW DID THAT SEASON OF LIFE SHAPE YOU?

A: I talked a lot about that very thing in my book Shaken . We all go through moments where our faith in our abilities and purpose feels rattled, but I believe it’s often in those storms when God can show us who we could become.

Q: YOU TALK A LOT ABOUT COMPARISON CULTURE. WHY DO YOU BELIEVE COMPARISON HAS BECOME SUCH A TRAP TODAY?

A: Because we’re comparing our real, everyday lives to someone else’s highlight reel. Social media shows people’s “best day,” often filtered and staged, and then we measure our reality against that. There’s a reason filters are so popular—it’s not real. We end up scrolling through images that don’t tell the full story, and without realizing it, comparison starts to steal our joy and our gratitude.

“We’re comparing our real, everyday lives to someone else’s highlight reel... comparison starts to steal our joy.”

Q: YOUR FOUNDATION FOCUSES ON THE “MOST VULNERABLE.” WHERE DID THAT CALLING BEGIN?

A: When I was 15, I met a boy in the Philippines who was treated as a throwaway because he was born with physical differences. That moment changed me. I realized God was calling me to pursue a different kind of MVP, not “Most Valuable Player,” but “Most Vulnerable People.”

Q: FINALLY, WHAT’S ONE THING PEOPLE MIGHT BE SURPRISED TO KNOW ABOUT YOU?

A: I have some weird coffee habits, which include protein powder, collagen, and cream all mixed together. I love golf dates with my wife. And every night, I bring snacks to bed to share with our dogs. It brings me more joy than it probably should.

This conversation barely scratches the surface. Tim goes deeper into the moments that rattled him, the joys of fatherhood, and one story he has never shared publicly until now. Scan the QR code for the full, exclusive City Lifestyle interview on Share the Lifestyle Podcast.

FIVE BEST INVESTMENT BOOKS TO READ

ARTICLE BY SUSAN LANIER-GRAHAM

These Investment Books Can Help You Stay Up-To-Date On The Latest Financial Trends

Investing in your future is critical yet complicated. While reaching out to qualified professionals is vital—whether you’re building your business, investing in your financial security, or planning for retirement—doing some of your own research is often helpful. We checked out some of the top investment books that help you better understand how to invest in your future and build wealth.

ONE UP ON WALL STREET

One Up On Wall Street: How to Use What You Already Know to Make Money in the Market by Peter Lynch with John Rothchild. Peter Lynch explains average investors’ advantages over professionals and how they can use these advantages to achieve financial success.

HOW TO INVEST

How to Invest: Navigating the Brave New World of Personal Investment, part of Economist Books, by Peter Stanyer, Masood Javaid, and Stephe Satchell. A dynamic new guide to personal investment for the era of cryptocurrencies and personal trading platforms.

POWER YOUR PROFITS

Power Your Profits: How to Take Your Business from $10,000 to $10,000,000  by Susie Carder. While not a traditional book on investments,  Power Your Profits helps you discover how to take your business from startup mode to the multi-million-dollar mark.

THE WEALTH DECISION

The Wealth Decision: 10 Simple Steps to Achieve Financial Freedom and Build Generational Wealth by Dominique Broadway. A roadmap for becoming a millionaire and building the foundation of generational wealth from a self-made, first-generation multimillionaire.

HOW TO INVEST

How to Invest: Masters on the Craft by David M. Rubenstein. This book is a master class on investing, featuring conversations with the biggest names in finance. Brought to you by the legendary cofounder of The Carlyle Group, David M. Rubenstein.

Hand Crafted Custom Furniture For Your Entire Home

APRIL 2026

A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS

APRIL 4TH

Annual Egg Hunt

Lexington Green Gazebo | 10:00 AM

This springtime tradition is back! The Lexington Green Egg Hunt returns on Saturday, April 4, 2026, at 10 AM on The Green in Milford Hunt. Eggs, candy, and prizes are provided — just bring your own basket! Kids of all ages are welcome. Registration is required.

APRIL 5TH

Artist Call:

Milford Photo Expo 2026

Milford Arts Council | 11:59 PM

Photographers, take note! The Milford Arts Council and Milford Photo are calling all artists to submit work for the Milford Photo Expo 2026. There is no set theme, and both digital and film photography are welcome. Submissions are due by April 5, with the exhibit running May 7–June 5 at the MAC and an opening reception on May 14.

APRIL 11TH

Arthur Migliazza: A Boogie Woogie Concert

Milford Arts Council | 7:30 PM

See award-winning pianist Arthur Migliazza for an unforgettable evening of Boogie Woogie and Blues. A virtuoso and living historian, Migliazza takes audiences on a captivating journey through the African-American piano traditions that shaped jazz, rock and roll, and American popular music — blending astonishing technique with rich storytelling. Tickets available online.

APRIL 25TH

Milford Earth Day

Downtown Green | 10:00 AM

Celebrate our planet at Milford Earth Day 2026 on the Downtown Milford Green. This free, family-friendly event features exhibitors from local environmental organizations, nonprofits, and eco-conscious businesses, along with educational workshops, games, and crafts for all ages. Come connect with nature, discover green initiatives, and enjoy a morning outdoors with your community.

APRIL 25TH

The Spongebob Musical presented by Harborside Middle School Drama Club

Jonathan Law High School | 2:00 PM

Harborside Middle School’s Drama Club is bringing Bikini Bottom to life with SpongeBob the Musical: Youth Edition! Watch talented young performers take the stage as they tackle this colorful, high-energy musical about friendship, optimism, and saving the world. General admission tickets are $12, with children 3 and under admitted free. Support your local student performers!

APRIL 25TH

Return of the Osprey

Connecticut Audubon Society | 5:30 PM

Celebrate the return of Connecticut’s beloved ospreys at the Connecticut Audubon Society’s annual fundraiser, Return of the Osprey, at the Coastal Center at Milford Point. An evening of auction bidding and fund-a-need giving supports hands-on STEM education for students across New Haven County and helps restore native habitat at one of Connecticut’s top coastal bird migration stopovers.

Want to be featured?

realty report

A SAMPLE OF RECENTLY SOLD PROPERTIES IN MILFORD.

Top residential transactions through 03/31/2026

Plant You r Kitchen Garden

A quick guide for simple ideas to start off your backyard kitchen garden. With endless health and medicinal benefits, combined with the beauty and enjoyment to be found, gardening is endlessly rewarding.

GETTING STARTED

• Plant your vegetable options right into your beds with flowers, the pollinators (bees, butterflies and more) are attracted to the beautiful flowers and your veggies will easily and abundantly go-to-fruit, living harmoniously in one bed.

• Every garden needs a rain gauge - you’ll be surprised at how fun it is to check. There is nothing like rain water for your garden. (This is optional, but definitely fun).

• Get your family involved. It’s never too late!

• Just go for it, our local climate can be weird and often extreme but don’t let it stop you- the most success and fun I’ve had was just going for it. Experiment and see what you love and what works best for you!

• In most cases, when watering, don’t water the petals and leaves, (especially when they’re in direct sunlight) try to water straight to the soil. All they need is water, nutrients and light to thrive! (and maybe a little love helps too!)

• Don’t forget herbs: Lavender, Mint, Lemon Verbena, Oregano, Basil, Cilantro, Parsley and more. Don’t be afraid to skip the spice rack and grab your seasoning from the garden.

ARTICLE BY LAURA SANCHEZQUAN

BACKYARD GARDENS OFFER FRESH VEGGIES AND FOOD FOR YOUR SOUL

What to Plant

Whether starting from seed or seedlings, you can’t go wrong with these options. Start with foods you know you like to eat.

TOMATOES:

They’re delicious, money-saving, good for eating fresh and for preserving. Tomatoes come in endless colors, shapes and sizes. Plant them in a sunny location with well-drained soil, ideally in full sun, and ensure they receive consistent moisture, supporting them with cages or stakes as they grow.

EGGPLANT:

Eggplant is a short season vegetable and a relative of peppers, potatoes, tomatoes and tobacco. It thrives in heat and full sun and can be deliciously made into baba ganoush and many other delicious dishes.

OKRA:

Okra loves our hot summers and full sun. Don’t wait too long to pick your okra, ideally harvesting them when they are 2 to 4 inches long. Can be eaten raw on a salad or best served deep fried. (The flower that turns into the okra itself is uniquely beautiful as well!)

PEPPERS:

Like tomatoes, peppers have many purposes and variations. Plant them in a sunny location with well-drained soil after the last frost, spacing them 18 inches apart, and provide consistent watering while ensuring the soil doesn’t become waterlogged.

Flowers Bring Pollinators

Flowers bring joy to all five of our senses, but they also bring pollinators to our garden in order to ensure your backyard kitchen will produce lots of fresh fruits and vegetables. Not to mention they also contain health and even medicinal properties.

HIBISCUS:

Make sure your hibiscus plants, whether tropical or hardy, get at least 6 hours of sun per day in order to achieve optimum blooming. Hibiscus flowers can be made into a delicious tea that can be served hot or ice cold (and is a good source of Vitamin C). With over 200 varieties of hibiscus world wide, their blooms only last a day or two! Stunning in all shapes, sizes and colors.

MARIGOLDS:

To the surprise of most people, marigold flowers are edible. Whether used fresh, dried, or infused into various beverages, Marigolds have a multitude of uses in the kitchen. An added benefit of planting these bright and low maintenance flowers next to tomatoes– they help keep pests away from devouring your tomatoes while also encouraging pollinators.

ZINNIAS: PLUMBAGO:

These bright, colorful garden gems have many benefits beyond their beauty and ease of care. Along with attracting pollinators, and being low maintenance they also have medicinal properties. Zinnias have antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, they’re rich in antioxidants, and the natural compounds in zinnias can help calm irritated skin and reduce redness.

Plumbago is thought to have many health benefits, such as its anti-ulcer, anti-oxidant, and anti-cancer properties, resulting from its principal chemical components, which are concentrated in the roots, leaves, and stems of plants. This attractive light purple flowering plant thrives in the sun, and has moderate watering needs. Trim and prune to suit your own preferences of growth and it’s a welcome, abundantly beautiful member of any garden.