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Stamford Downtown Parade Spectacular N OV E M B E R 2 02 3

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November 2023 PUBLISHER

Marty Shapiro | marty.shapiro@citylifestyle.com

LIFESTYLE LETTER

Letter from the Editor It’s hard to believe that this is the 20th year of hosting the Stamford Downtown Thanksgiving Parade Spectacular at the Old Town Hall with Motts Pelazza. We have had the privilege of watching kids grow up and return with their own children. It’s such a fun event that Motts and I look forward to every year. I remember marching in the parade in the 1990s along with our Curtain Call family. At that time, we all wore our sweatshirts and walked alongside a station wagon where, Keith – dressed as a chicken, waved to the crowds. We’ve come a long way! Stamford Downtown has done an outstanding job of providing quality programming for Stamford; first under the leadership of Sandy Goldstein and now with David Kooris at the helm. The producer of the parade as well as the summer concert series is Lynne Colatrella. Lynne and I have been lifelong best friends. I have watched her create events, experiences and opportunities that have touched all of us. Her ability to get people to participate – often far outside of their comfort zone – is one of my favorite things about her. I love how she is not afraid to dream BIG. The Power of Sisterhood, lifelong friendships of blood and chosen sisters – be it one, a few or a tribe, is one of the most significant relationships you can have. The story of Stamford’s own Bonnie Stoll and her friendship with Diana Nyad is so inspirational. It’s no wonder Anette Benning and Jodi Foster portray them in the upcoming film, Nyad. It was an honor to speak with three local veterans, Buddy, Mike and Cookie, from three different wars. I think of my dad, who along with his best friend, Willie Kesnick, survived D-Day at Omaha Beach. The Umbrella Club is a group of local men dedicated to helping those with a need, especially children. Stamford is like that – we help each other. We’re a city with a lot of heart. There is much to be thankful for - family, friends and community. I hope to see you at the parade. And, please support our advertisers. Shop, dine and play local… whenever you can.

EDITOR

Laurie Guzda | laurie.guzda@citylifestyle.com CONTR IBUTING WR ITER S

PJ Kennedy | pj.kennedy@citylifestyle.com Sarah Bamford, Brittney Tavello, Marty Shapiro, Laurie A. Guzda CONTR IBUTING PHOTOGR APHER S

HappyHaHa, PJKennedy, O & Co. Media

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L AURIE GUZDA , EDITOR @ S TA M F O R D C I T Y L I F E S T Y L E M A G A Z I N E

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Proverbs 3:5-6 Stamford City Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Stamford 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 Stamford City Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but

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

the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

Thankful for you. As Thanksgiving approaches, we are filled with gratitude for our wonderful clients, whose trust and loyalty have been the driving force behind our continued growth and success. Your unwavering support inspires us to deliver our best each day, and reaffirms our commitment to excellence. Wishing everyone a warm and joyous Thanksgiving filled with love, laughter, and countless blessings. Suzette Kraus SK Homes Team at Compass suzette.kraus@compass.com M: 914.582.2551 | O: 203.309.6712 skhomesteam.com | compass.com SK Homes Team at Compass is a team of real estate licensees affiliated with Compass Connecticut, LLC, a licensed real estate broker and abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws.

N OV E M B E R 2 0 2 3

inside the issue The Thankful Issue

F E ATU R E D

D E PA RTM E NTS

16 Thank You for Your Service

Lifestyle Letter

City Scene

Business Monthly

Local Limelight LI FE + C U LT U R E

Our Town LI FE + C U LT U R E

Hometown Hero LI FE + C U LTU R E

Must See LI FE + C U LT U R E

Inspired By HEA LT H + WELLNE SS

Hot Spot A RTS + C U LT U R E

Events

Three Veterans - Three Wars

22 The Umbrella Club Good Guys Giving Back

28 The Power of Friendship & Family

Annette Bening and Jodie Foster star as Diana Nyad and Bonnie Stoll in NYAD

38 Northern Lights Coming to Stamford Kari Kola, Nordic Artist Lights Up Mill River Park

O N T H E C OV E R

Photography: HappyHaHa.com Stamford Downtown’s Thanksgiving Balloon Parade Spectacular is the 2nd largest in the country, just behind the NYC Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. Join the fun! November 19, 22023. Parade steps off at 12pm.

CULINARY• EVENTS • LIFESTYLE

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N OV E M B E R 2 0 2 3

city scene

Where neighbors can see and be seen. 1

2 O & CO. MEDIA

7 5

1: The Mayor and first responders remembering 9/11 2: Jean Bickley and Lynne Colatrella (Board Member) at SM&NC fundraising dinner. 3: Michael & Carol Fedele - Campaign Chairs, Melissa H. Mulrooney SM&NC CEO & guests. 4: Kelvin McGregor, Frank Gaudio, and George Boyce - 100 Black Men of Stamford golf outing 5: Mayor’s staff at the Stamford Senior Center Mini Golf fundraiser. 6: Keynote speaker - Kathy Silard - President and CEO of Stamford Health 7: SM&NC Board President, Harry Day with Board Vice President, Douglas L. York, Ph.D.

C I T Y SC E N E

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

O & CO. MEDIA

PJ KENNEDY

8: Dr. Danielle Robinson (Diageo) with President of 100 Black Men of Stamford Jesse Baker 9: Members of 100 Black Men of Stamford 10: Stunning sunset overhead view of the St Leo’s Fair.

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All concerts are held at The Palace Theatre 61 Atlantic Street, Stamford

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

DECD

K-9 Resorts

RPM Raceway

Connecticut’s Department of Economic and Community Development helps to strengthen Connecticut’s competitive position in the global economy. Through their “Good to Great” program, The Avon Theatre received a $500,000 grant to create a smaller, more intimate auditorium that will be utilized for film-making classes and other activities. The Bartlett Arboretum’s $500,000 grant will be used to replace their existing greenhouse with a state-of-the-art greenhouse which will be used to host a wide range of exhibits.

As you start planning your next vacation and are wondering where to board your furry friend, look no further than K9 Resorts of Stamford on Harvard Avenue. K9 Resorts works hard to provide the love and care your dog deserves. Offering everything from luxury suites and executive rooms to traditional suites, K9 Resorts leads the way in luxury pet hospitality to ensure your dog is happy, comfortable, and relaxed. Visit them at www.k9resorts.com.

At RPM Raceway Stamford, you will find a variety of experiences in this massive, multi-level facility. From the European-style high-speed karting and 14 lanes of bowling, to the extensive arcade options including RPM VR and RPM SIM, as well as signature dishes, craft cocktails and brews at The Clutch Sports Bar, RPM Stamford is the perfect location for your celebration, personal or professional. RPM Raceway is located at 600 West Avenue.

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B USIN E SS M ON T H LY

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Stamford Partnership

Bark Busters

Stamford Senior Center

The Stamford Partnership, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, aims to enhance the well-being of Stamford's residents, businesses, and stakeholders by fostering collaboration among companies, governments, nonprofits, and individuals. Guided by three pillars—Public-Private Partnership, Ecosystem Development, and Talent Development—the organization strives to turn Stamford into a tech-savvy, sustainable smart city. Promotes innovation, growth, and connectivity in high-potential industries while emphasizing lifelong learning, soft skills, and technical expertise for the future workforce.

If your dog suffers from separation anxiety or shows other signs of stress, behavioral therapist and Trainer Michael Konstantaras, (who was recently featured on NBC’s Today Show) can help! With 15 years of experience and over 3,000 dogs worked with, Michael can help dogs with human or dog aggression, leash reactivity, or any other behavioral issues. Contact Michael at www. barkbusters.com or call 203-9039994 and start living the happy life that you and your dog deserve!

Founded in 1996, the Stamford Senior Center is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, non-sectarian corporation established to help serve the needs of Stamford’s older adult population. The mission is to provide affordable opportunities for older adults to be active and healthy in mind and body and remain connected to the Stamford community in a welcoming, safe, and diverse environment. For more information on membership and available activities and programs, go to www.stamfordseniorct.org.

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

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TH A NK YOU FOR YOUR SERV ICE ARTICLE BY LAURIE A. GUZDA

Three Veterans - Three Wars

The new Veteran’s Resource Center is located at Stamford Old Town Hall - 175 Atlantic Street. It is a place for veterans and their families to be empowered, directed, and connected to available resources and services. The hours of the center are from 10:00am – 1:00pm on Tuesdays & Thursdays. If you have any questions, please call 203-274-7713 or email: VeteransresourceCenter@StamfordCT.gov Free blood pressure screening for Veterans is the first Thursday of each month from 10:00am-11:30am. You will receive blood pressure screening, pre-diabetes screening, height and weight measurement, information about community resources, and so much more. Services are completely free and confidential. No appointment necessary. No proof of insurance required.

LOCA L LIM E LIGH T | L IFE + CULTURE

Buddy Vaccaro

M IC H A E L “ BU DDY ” VAC C A RO World War II - 1944 through 1946, Buddy served as Aviation Store Keeper 2nd Class. His job was to ensure that the big planes and their pilots had the parts and supplies needed as they flew bombing missions and submarine searches. From Rhode Island to Jacksonville, Florida to Groton, Connecticut, Buddy moved when the bases moved. Buddy was married on Washington’s birthday (2/22/49) and had three sons. He worked for Marle for nearly sixty years. At 96 years old, Buddy has a memory that is still razor-sharp. His charm, humor and wit are delightful. “I’m going to purgatory where all my friends are,” says Buddy. “I don’t think I’ll go to hell but I don’t think I’ll get in to heaven either.”

CONTINUED > NOVEMB ER 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/STA M F O R D C T

Mike Macri

MICHAEL D. M ACRI Michael Macri served in the Naval Seebees (better known as the Mobile Construction Force) Mobile Construction Battalion Z out of Long Beach, California during the Korean War, 1950 – 1955. Stationed for one year on Adak, the southernmost city in the Aleutian Islands located in Alaska (before is became our 49th state). They battled winds as high as 75mph to build a 75ft tall antenna to enable broadcasting Voice of America into Siberia. His battalion also rebuilt the pier at Midway to supply the US and South Korean military. He married with two children. He was a carpenter, built his own Heating/AC business, became a Building Inspector and then the Official City of Stamford Inspector.

LOCA L LIM E LIGH T | L IFE + CULTURE

Cookie Thomas

RICHARD “COOKIE” THOMAS Cookie served two tours-of-duty in Vietnam as a SeeBee and heavy equipment operator. He was stationed in Gulfport, Mississippi in 1965 as they rebuilt the old naval base before being shipped to Camp Campbell in Phu Bai, Vietnam – just seven miles south of the DMZ. He was in Vietnam for the Tet Offensive. Stationed in Morocco for his last year of service, it served as a transition period for which he is very grateful. After the war, Cookie had friends in Stamford and with a leap of faith, he moved with the intention to start a new chapter. Married with four children, Cookie worked at Pitney Bowes for 35 years. Today, you can find Cookie singing at clubs and events as well as vocal coaching out of his home. Singing is healing for Cookie.

NOVEMB ER 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/STA M F O R D C T

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NOVEMB ER 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/STA M F O R D C T

THE UMBRELLA CLUB Good Guys Giving Back ARTICLE BY MARTY SHAPIRO

O UR TOWN | L IFE + CU LTURE

The Umbrella Club is a story of passion, friendship, and the belief that a quiet helping hand can make a big difference in the world. It is a fraternity of Stamford businessmen who have dedicated themselves to providing compassion, support and financial assistance to families and children in our community. The Club has donated over $4,000,000 to local families and children. It is truly one of the best kept secrets in Stamford. Established in the early 1980s as a non-profit organization, this all-male fraternity limits itself to fifty members. They meet once a month for lunch hosted by long-time member Mike Zohdy, at Zody’s 19th Hole restaurant. Mike, Scott Kelly (Club President) and the 48 other members freely donate their time, energy and expertise, and purposely keep the Club’s activities low profile.

“Our message is if you are struggling financially with a child who is severely ill, come to us, we’ll help you. We are not a oneand-done club. If you’re still struggling down the road, we’re here to help you,” said Finance Committee Chair, Tom Heide. The members are all local businessmen, whose ages range from 30 to 90+. They share a collective desire to do good and give back to a community that has helped shape each one of them. Each meeting starts with The Umbrella Club song, reminiscent of a college fraternity. Despite the off-pitch crooning, the brotherhood shines through. The meetings are thoughtful but not without a great deal of laughter among friends. After a quick roll call and the reading of the minutes from the prior month’s meeting, the members get down to business – the business of evaluating and awarding funding to deserving candidates. Donations range from buying an electric wheelchair for a young resident, to large six-figure, multi-year donations to Stamford Health. They donate to the Stamford Museum & Nature

Center for the expansion of Children’s Wellness Programming and help provide access in compliance with Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Money is raised through three tentpole events each year - a Winter raffle, a Spring golf outing, and a late Summer Beach Party. Ninety percent of every dollar raised goes to programs which are earmarked to assist their recipients - a rare feat that not many other charities can claim. When asked why he devotes his time and efforts, Peter Orrico, age 91 and one of the original founders of the Club, said he recently visited a recipient of a donation to present a check. “I get tears in my eyes when you see firsthand the impact our donation has on the family. I have been doing this a long, long time, and it never gets old.” If you would like to learn more about the work of The Umbrella Club, make a donation or if you know someone with a special need that the club may be able to fill, visit their website at umbrellaclub.org.

“Our message is if you are struggling financially with a child who is severely ill, come to us, we’ll help you. We are not a one -and- done club. I f y o u ’ r e s t i l l s t r u g g l i n g d o w n t h e r o a d , w e ’ r e h e r e t o h e l p y o u .” — F i n a n c e C o m m i t t e e C h a i r, To m H e i d e NOVEMB ER 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/STA M F O R D C T

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ARTICLE BY LAURIE A. GUZDA

USS PC 552 D-DAY AT OMAHA BEACH Ted & Willie in France after D-Day

Crew of PC 552

HEROES NEVER DIE The US PC 552 was affectionately referred to as Rustbucket 552. Commissioned July 1942, it served as a patrol craft and escort ship for convoys. The ship was called to England in January 1944 in preparation of D-Day, escorting ship traffic as well as protecting troops during landing exercises. They witnessed the German bombings of England's south coast. On June 5, 1944, the ships were kept in the dark about Operation Overlord. Unsure whether this was another rehearsal, it soon became apparent that this was indeed the moment as the channel was filled with so many ships, you couldn’t count them. The sea was so rough many of the ships had trouble keeping station. Once the order was given PC 552 practically led the convoy across the channel. The Augusta was the headquarters for the attack. As PC 552 pulled alongside they were told, “Good Luck, you’re on your own.”

Ted Guzda and Willie Kesnick were childhood friends who enlisted to serve together. They were assigned to PC 552. Both of them believed they were going to die that day. Willie lost his helmet when Ted emptied a bucket of sand and tossed it to Willie to put on his head. He often spoke about the ping ping sound of the bullets hitting the bucket. It was years before they could talk about what happened that day. Once they started talking about it they couldn’t stop. I think they both were so grateful for surviving that day that they lived every day thereafter as a gift. If you would like to know more about PC 552 and its role in the D-Day invasion on Omaha Beach, there is a great book titled: “Normandy: A Father’s Ship and a Son’s Curiosity. The USS PC 552” written by Dave Cary and available on Amazon.

According to crew member, Bill Kesnick, “When we left, they told us, ‘God bless you, 552.’ They didn’t expect us to come back.” 26

H OM E TOWN H E R O | L IFE + CULTURE

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NOVEMB ER 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/STA M F O R D C T

Diana Nyad, Annette Bening, Jodie Foster and Bonnie Stoll

Annette Bening and Jodie Foster star as Diana Nyad and Stamford’s Bonnie Stoll in the upcoming film, NYAD

M UST SE E | L IFE + CU LTURE

THE POWER OF FRIENDSHIP & FAMILY ARTICLE BY LAURIE A. GUZDA

At age 64, Diana Nyad successfully swam from Havana, Cuba to Key West, Florida. She swam the 111 miles for nearly 53 hours without protection from shark and jellyfish infested waters. Stamford native, Bonnie Stoll, is Diana Nyad's lifelong best friend. Friendship and family are the key ingredients to bring your biggest dreams to fruition. NYAD - starring Annette Bening and Jodie Foster will be released on Netflix November 3rd. The movie is based on the book written by Diana Nyad: Find a Way: The Inspiring Story of One Woman’s Pursuit of a Lifelong Dream. Bonnie Stoll grew up in Stamford. “It was the perfect place to grow up…watching and learning from the teachers, coaches and my parents all helped in forming the person I am today.” Bonnie was a formidable racquetball player and coach. Her nephew, Jason Stoll recalls, “What I really loved while growing up was watching Bonnie play racquetball. She was always a fierce competitor. I really enjoyed the

way she would yell at herself for making mistakes on the racquetball court. She believed that she could get to any ball or make any shot and if she didn’t, she let herself know.” Diana and Bonnie met at a racquetball tournament in Poughkeepsie. Bonnie recalls, “Diana was playing in the pro-am and asked if I could help her with her game. I don’t know whether or not her game improved but I do know that Diana taught me how important training is in any sport. We immediately became like two Labradors working out, which evolved into a trust between us that hasn’t ever been broken. To have a best friend and a sister, whom I can also call a best friend, has been an advantage in life.” Bonnie’s sisterhood includes Diana, her sister Robin and Robin’s daughter, Jesse Morris. According to Jesse, “My Family is very devoted to one another. We love to gather for a delicious meal (or three) and talk… and talk and talk. As a group we’re energetic, honest, and direct – but these are also qualities we all rank highly in our individual selves as well. Bonnie and Diana share these traits.” CONTINUED >

NOVEMB ER 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/STA M F O R D C T

(Thanksgiving 2022) Bonnie's support team: parents Lila & Herb Stoll, brother Barry, sister Robin, goddaughter Jesse, Jason, nieces, nephews, in-laws & Diana.

Jason, Jesse, Robin and Bonnie

M UST SE E | L IFE + CU LTURE

Jesse continues, “Their relationship is one of the strongest I’ve ever seen, and you can tell they’ve been tested to the max of both of their capabilities. Diana lives by the mantra to never give up. Bonnie, the ever grounded and logical voice of reason, has a drive to succeed in any task (as large as this swim or as small as her daily crossword) that is unmatched. Together, they are unstoppable.” In describing both Diana and Bonnie, Jason adds, “The one word that describes both of them would be competitive. As for Bonnie I would say “real” and for Diana, it would be “persistent” or “unwavering.” Jesse was onboard the boat for the second attempt. She remembers the experience, “It was an incredible production of support and logistics. It was unbelievable watching her swim. When I was on the boat as handler for my rotation and had no view of land –something I didn’t realize would be so unsettling – Diana still made jokes. She was happy, and at home in the water. And ultimately, even though that wasn’t the successful crossing, it was inspiring to watch how much they learned from that experience, from each other, and what they brought into the final successful crossing. And even though the swim has been completed, it’s always exciting to see what they'll do next.” For Bonnie, “My favorite thing about Diana is her sense of adventure and her curiosity of how other people live. I have an advantage when Diana and I travel, Diana usually speaks the language of the inhabitants. I am learning Spanish as we speak, as I love the culture of the Latino countries.”

Jesse Morris

CONTINUED >

Jason Stoll

NOVEMB ER 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/STA M F O R D C T

What does Bonnie think about the movie? “The movie, itself, has been, and continues to be, the most surreal experience of my life. Having Annette Bening and Jodie Foster portraying Diana and I is an honor to beat all honors. These two professionals are masters of their craft. I actually thought I was watching myself on the big screen. Jodie nailed me…in every way. .. mannerisms and all. Annette became a real swimmer. She trained in the pool for a year and, boy, has it paid off.” The women forged a friendship based on respect. When asked for a favorite quote, Bonnie replied, “Show me, don’t tell me.”

M UST SE E | L IFE + CU LTURE

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SHOP LOCAL NOVEMB ER 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/STA M F O R D C T

Alexa Sosa

Personal Style Alexa Sosa ARTICLE BY SARAH BAMFORD @HYBRIDMEDIACOMM

Name: Alexa Sosa, Age: 27 Occupation: Co-Site Director, Food Rescue US - Fairfield County

What does style mean to you? In my opinion, style reflects the person that you are. Style is a way to express your attitude, your personality, and your preferences. When I look at an individual, I know a little bit more about them simply by observing their style. Personally, style is an opportunity for me to tell others about myself, but also for me to feel comfortable and free when I am engaging socially. Last month I attended a conference and wore a beautiful white blouse with black giraffe prints. That was my way of saying I am elegant, and fun, and I love animals. I felt comfortable in my skin because I was staying true to myself.

How would you describe your style? Natural. When it comes to style, I believe less is more and there is no better feeling than owning your own features. So, finding styles that encompass simplicity and value the people and resources it works with, is important to me. Working from home doesn’t always give me the ability to share my style with others. So, at home, my style is a combination of loungewear and funky patterns and colors that uplift me in what can often feel like a lonely workspace.

What are you most thankful for right now? This season, I am thankful to Food Rescue US, for giving me the opportunity to have a role in contributing to a healthier world by keeping edible food out of the waste stream, and instead putting it into the hands of our neighbors experiencing food insecurity. The Fairfield County community helps us strive towards reaching these climate forward and food security goals. Luckily, I do not have to do too much to go out and do what I love! That remains true to my style.

I NSP IR E D BY | HEA LTH + W E LLNE S S

Brittney Tavello Health tips during the holiday season:

1 | Stay Active:

Go for a walk, get in your workouts, engage in activities that get you moving. This can help counterbalance the extra calories and reduce stress.

2 | Manage Stress:

Practice relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, yoga, or simply taking some time for yourself to unwind.

3 | Get Enough Sleep:

Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night. Proper rest is vital for your immune system, energy levels, and overall well-being.

4 | Practice Gratitude:

Focus on the positive aspects of the holiday season and express gratitude. Gratitude can boost your mood and overall well-being.

5 | Maintain Routine:

Try to stick to your regular routines as much as possible to help you maintain a sense of normalcy during the holiday hustle and bustle. Brittney Tavello is an instructor at CycleBar Stamford.

IMPORTED CARS OF STAMFORD You’ve tried the rest... Now come to the best!

Providing General Automotive Service & Repair to the Stamford Area No job too big or too small Free pick-up and delivery George Kakaletris - Owner

377 Elm Street, Stamford | (203) 323-3486 NOVEMB ER 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/STA M F O R D C T

Northern Lights Coming to Stamford

Kari Kola, Nordic Light Artist

K A R I KOLA, NOR DIC A RTIST LIGH T S U P M I LL R I V ER PA R K

ARTICLE BY LAURIE A. GUZDA

There is something magical coming to the Mill River Park - a community event to embrace winter and to experience the park in a unique and unexpected way. Kari Kola, world renowned light artist, brings his vision to Stamford. Kola has garnered accolades for his light installations in Paris, Prague and most notably for Stonehenge in the UK. Nette Compton, President and CEO of Mill River Park Collaborative tells us, “We were interested in embracing winter and to offer a unique way to activate the park in what is usually a quiet time. So, we looked to Scandinavian artists for inspiration and we found the visionary, Kari Kola.” In partnership with Fernando Luis Alvarez – artist and curator, this project is near and dear to once again partner with the Stamford community in a downtown location. The pop-up installation will take place in January or February, based on weather conditions. Sign up or follow Mill River Park Cooperative for details. The event is Free. You won’t want to miss this fantastic opportunity.

H OT SP OT | ARTS + CU LTURE

Kola's Stonehenge Impact with Light Project to celebrate UNESCO World Heritage Day

Come join the fun... WE OFFER: • fitness classes • arts • enrichment programs • lifelong learning • travel • and more!

. ise Paz LOOK YOUNGER AND LOSE WEIGHT CONTACT US 203 69006000

The Stamford Senior Center is a non-profit organization providing affordable opportunities for older adults to stay healthy and active.

111 HIGH RIDGE RD SECOND FLOOR STAMFORD, CT 06905 ANTIAGINGANDWEIGHTLOSSSGMAIL .COM

203-977-5151 888 Washington Blvd. Stamford, CT 06901 stamfordseniorct.org stamfordseniorcenter@stamfordct.gov

W W W. STA M FO R DA N T I AG I N G .CO M

NOVEMB ER 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/STA M F O R D C T

N OV E M B E R 2 0 2 3

events

A curated selection of the most intriguing upcoming events in our area. NOVE M BE R 3 RD

Whiskey & Woodfire

KN OBLOCH FARM 18 1 S COFIEL DTOWN R OA D | 6 :30 P M Sips and Slices at the Knobloch Family Farmhouse for a night of "spirited" whiskey exploration paired with freshly made New Haven Style pies by Sally's Apizza. Attendees will sample the robust flavors of exceptional whiskies from around the world and learn first-hand from Brand Ambassadors how their products are made. Adults 21+ only. Members: $70 | Non-Members: $80 www.stamfordmuseum.org NOV E M BE R 4 T H

Birding Trip: Waterbirds & Migrants at Cove Island Park

COVE IS LAN D PAR K | 9:00 AM Cove Island has been designated a state Important Bird Area for the coastal and woodland habitat that makes it home to an incredible variety of migrant bird species. The Long Island Sound coast provides wintering grounds for ducks and loons. The park's bird sanctuary offers meadow and woodland habitats perfect for viewing migrating songbirds. Tickets $15: Contact: Ryan.MacLean@audubon.org | 203-930-1353 NOV E M BE R 9 T H

Jason Ingriselli

575 PACIFIC STREET, STAMFOR D | 7 :30 P M Third Place by Half Full Brewery presents New England native, singer-songwriter Jason Ingriselli. He is a passionate musician who is gaining notoriety by showcasing his powerful voice delivering an authentic country sound he calls New England Country Music. Performing in concert halls, festivals, fairs, clubs and breweries, Jason’s original songs have attracted a growing fan base nationwide.

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Come Celebrate With Us!!

Now Booking Private Events For Up To 200 People

At King School, we believe that the smartest person in the room is not the one with all the answers, but the one with all the questions.

The Power of Wonder

We welcome the curious ones – the ones who aren’t afraid to ask why, to try something new, to get it wrong before they get it right. We believe that wondering minds go further!

King School is a PreK-12 independent school located in Stamford that serves the students of Fairﬁeld and Westchester counties.

Visit Campus to Learn More

kingschoolct.org

NOVEMB ER 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/STA M F O R D C T

EVENTS CONTINUED

NOVEMBER 19 TH

Stamford Downtown Parade Spectacular

fall exhibition on view

through january 28, 2024

in our bendel mansion museum galleries

STA MF O R D DOWNTOWN | 1 2:0 0 P M The parade is scheduled to begin at noon at the intersection of Summer Street and Hoyt Street and conclude on Atlantic and Federal Streets, just a short block from the Stamford Transportation Center. A Balloon Inflation Party will be held on Saturday, November 18 from 3-6 p.m. at the intersection of Hoyt Street and Summer Street. www.stamford-downtown.com

Insofar is a celebration of texture, luminosity and transparency. In this, her first museum exhibition, artist Rachel Sard explores and exposes peculiar attributes of familiar subjects in exhaustive detail. Her paintings are presented in conjunction with natural history objects from the SM&NC’s permanent collection, collection creating a unique visual dialogue between the artist, her inspiration, process and vision. Fascinated by subtle imperfections and tonal shifts, Sard uses unassuming subjects – a pile of stones, discarded onion peels, a mass of oyster shells – to challenge the optical qualities of paint, pushing even the slightest nuances of light to their apex and furthest possible visible moment. Her creative process is an exercise in stamina, precision, revision and fine tuning of the highest degree, with months spent pursuing and capturing the minute details that live within a single moment in time.

Gallery Hours Monday – Saturday 9:00 am – 4:30 pm Sunday 11:00 am – 4:30 pm

39 Scofieldtown Road, Stamford | stamfordmuseum.org | 203.977.6521

NOVEMBER 19 TH

DakhaBrakha

T H E PA L AC E T H E AT R E 7 :0 0 P M DakhaBrakha is a music quartet from Kyiv, Ukraine. Reflecting fundamental elements of sound and soul, Ukrainian “ethno chaos” band DakhaBrakha creates a world of unexpected new music. Created in 2004 at the Kyiv Center of Contemporary Art “DAKH” by the avant-garde theatre director – Vladyslav Troitskyi – and given the name that means “give/take” in the old Ukrainian language. NOVEMBER 23 R D

Harbor Point Turkey Trot Fun Run 2023

H A R B O R P O I NT S Q UA R E 8 :0 0 A M Whether you are a runner, trotter, or walker all are welcome and there is no entry fee! Costumes appreciated! Be sure to tag your photos @HarborPointStamford on Instagram! Check In Begins: 7:30 am, Race kick-off: 8:00 am. This is a Rain or Shine event. If there are thunderstorms, this event will be canceled.

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

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“ When I started Josh Cellars, I wanted to make wines worthy of pairing with the people you care most for.” -Joseph Carr, Founder, Josh Cellars

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828 High Ridge Rd • Stamford