Issuu

H E A LT H & FITNESS ISSUE

JA N UA RY 2 02 5

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LIFESTYLE LETTER

Letter from the Publisher

January 2025 PUBLISHER

Marty Shapiro | Marty.Shapiro@citylifestyle.com E D I TO R

Laurie A. Guzda | laurie.guzda@citylifestyle.com

Happy New Year!

S O C I AL M E D I A C O O R D I N ATO R

Welcome to our Health & Wellness issue for January, the perfect time to focus on new beginnings and set meaningful intentions for the year ahead. As we usher in this new year, we are filled with a renewed sense of purpose and excitement for what lies ahead and we are reminded that true well-being encompasses more than just physical fitness - it’s about nurturing every aspect of ourselves: mind, body and spirit. It is also a time to reflect, reset, and embark on new journeys toward better health and well-being. In this issue, you'll find advice on cultivating a balanced lifestyle, from the latest trends in fitness and nutrition to mindfulness practices that nurture mental and emotional health. If you're looking to kickstart your fitness routine, improve your nutrition, or find ways to reduce stress and build resilience, we’ve got you covered with expert advice, fresh perspectives, and actionable tips. I am particularly excited about the article on some of our favorite Stamford yoga studios. Whether you’re an experienced yogi or just beginning your journey, yoga can unlock new levels of strength, flexibility, and peace of mind. I hope this issue sparks the motivation you need to set and achieve your wellness goals for the year ahead. Thank you for being part of our Stamford City Lifestyle community. Here’s to a year filled with growth, vitality and balance. May 2025 bring you the health and happiness you deserve.

AR E A C O O R D I N ATO R

Eva Glassman

PJ Kennedy CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Sarah Bamford, Jacqui Justice, Dan Pachter

Corporate Team CEO Steven Schowengerdt COO Matthew Perry CRO Jamie Pentz CTO Ajay Krishnan VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson VP OF FRANCHISE DEVELOPMENT Erika Smiley AD DESIGNER Rachel Chrisman LAYOUT DESIGNER Kirstan Lanier QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Brandy Thomas

MARTY SHAPIRO, PUBLISHER @ 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 Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com//franchise. 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

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

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 the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

inside the issue JANUARY 20 2 5 | HEA LT H & W EL L N ES S

18 14

Featured

18 24

Prime’s Executive Chef - Julio Genao

Experience diverse and creative dishes influenced by global culinary traditions.

YOGA

Four of Stamford’s BEST in YOGA for a HEALTHIER YOU

New for YOU

The new year is a great time to learn or do something new.

On the Cover

Departments

Yoga is one of the best ways to move your body and still your mind. Balance is key to a healthy lifestyle.

Lifestyle Letter

City Scene

Business Monthly

Local Limelight HEALTH + WELLNESS

Chef ’s Selection FOOD + BEVERAGE

Locally Sourced HEALTH + WELLNESS

Self Care LIFE + CULTURE

Giving Back REAL ESTATE

Inspired By EDUCATION

Outdoor Adventure LIFE + CULTURE

Back Stage PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

Events

Healthy Lifestyle HEALTH + WELLNESS

JANUARY 2025

city scene WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

CHICHI UBINA - FAIRFIELD COUNTY LOOK

BYRON SOZA

1: Avon Theatre honors Michael Douglas with a Lifetime Achievement Award. 2: Peter Gistelinck, Mayor Simmons, Arty Selkowitz, Senator Blumenthal, Michael Douglas & Susan Cullman 3: Mayor Simmons joins Andrew Farage (L) and Eyal Farage (R) of RPM Raceway 4: The Lafayette Stamford ribbon cutting. 5: Stamford Downtown Ex Dir Mike Moore, board member George Boyce and Fred Camillo of Greenwich. 6: Lindsey Cohen speaks at the Stamford 2035 Open House at Ferguson Library. 7: Tangled Vine’s Kevin Totoian performing at Stamford’s Lucky PawLooza sporting his SCL t-shirt.

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business monthly A R O U N D U P O F N E W S F R O M LO C A L B U S I N E S S E S

Collegiate Sports Management Group CSMG is a Stamford-based integrated sports and entertainment media company focused on esports and traditional sports through relationships with dozens of college conferences and hundreds of schools. CSMG is an experienced, trusted, results-driven team with a focus on media rights, analytics, licensing, and sponsorship sales. They offer expertise in brand building, original content, and event production & management. CSMG, through its EsportsU division, is the industry leader in college esports and gaming. collegiatesmg.com

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Children’s Learning Centers of Fairfield County Children’s Learning Centers provides quality early childhood education that is affordable for all families. CLC is the second largest early childhood education center in Fairfield County, providing choice for more than 800 students and their families annually. CLC, which opened in 1902 as Stamford Day Nursery, also assists families with food, clothing, application support for affordable housing, state subsidies, and much more. The holistic approach sets the CLC experience apart and fosters lifelong benefits. clcfc.org

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Resilience. Consistency. Determination. ARTICLE BY DANIEL PACHTER, EXERCISE PHYSIOLOGIST

The new year presents a time for fresh starts, making it an ideal opportunity to set resolutions. A resolution isn’t just a goal; it’s a clear, firm intention to act. For many, these resolutions are health and fitness-oriented, often inspired by a desire for improvement. As an exercise physiologist, I work with clients who commit to meaningful health changes, driven by a vision of their best selves.

1. COMMIT TO THE LONG HAUL, NOT A QUICK FIX

When setting resolutions, remember that meaningful progress isn’t instantaneous - it’s gradual. The journey to reaching fitness and health milestones is less like a sprint and more akin to a marathon. Rushing the process can lead to burnout, frustration, and, often,

RESOLUTIONS FOR 2025 AND BEYOND: A ROADMAP TO REALISTIC SUCCESS

LOCA L LIM E LIGH T | HEALT H + WE LLN E SS

giving up altogether. Instead, by pacing yourself and approaching your resolution as a lifestyle shift, you build sustainable momentum. Key Takeaway: Think of your resolution as a journey and prepare for it like you would a marathon, with patience, planning, and persistence.

2. SET REALISTIC SHORT-TERM AND LONG-TERM GOALS

Having both long-term and short-term goals is essential. Short-term goals provide quick wins and keep motivation high, while long-term goals keep you moving forward. Short-term setbacks are natural, and they’re an opportunity to learn and reassess. It’s vital to approach setbacks with a growth mindset. Key Takeaway: Instead of viewing setbacks as failures, treat them as feedback that helps you adapt and adjust your path forward.

3. FLEXIBILITY AND ADAPTABILITY IN YOUR MINDSET

Goals may shift over time, or you may need to adapt your approach to match your progress. The ability to adapt—to “course-correct”—is key to sticking with a resolution. I tell clients that setbacks and shifts are part of the growth process, an expected part of the journey. Staying flexible with your expectations allows for growth and evolution in ways you might not anticipate. Key Takeaway: Resolutions need a flexible mindset to grow, adapt, and change based on your personal development.

4. WORK WITH A COACH OR ACCOUNTABILITY PARTNER

One of the most effective ways to stay motivated and maintain progress is to have someone to hold you accountable. A coach or mentor can help with setting realistic goals, making adjustments, and celebrating wins. Even if a coach isn’t accessible, find an accountability partner. It’s about creating a system of support to help you stay focused and motivated. Key Takeaway: Having someone on the journey with you—whether a coach or friend—can help keep you grounded and encouraged.

5. BUILD “STICKTOITIVENESS”

Success in any resolution comes down to “sticktoitiveness” or perseverance. This characteristic is vital because it’s what keeps you coming back, even when it gets tough. Resilience, consistency, and determination to continue—this is the foundation for realizing any goal. Key Takeaway: Sticktoitiveness will keep you moving forward even on the hardest days. In summary, success with resolutions is about taking deliberate action, allowing for change and adjustment, and being kind to yourself through setbacks. The necessary key to achieving success in 2025 and beyond is to take action on your resolutions, create a structure that supports accountability, and course correct as needed. With a commitment to flexibility, perseverance, and long-term thinking, you’re setting yourself up for sustainable success. @bodybypure pureconditioning.com JANUARY 2 0 2 5 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/STA M F O R D C T

PRIME’S E XECUTIVE CHEF JULIO GENAO At Prime, Executive Chef Julio Genao and his staff take tremendous pride in their craft and strive to ensure that each guest feels valued and appreciated. Nestled beautifully on the water in the Harbor Point section of Stamford, the ambiance enhances every dining experience. Genao has worked diligently to develop a menu that caters to a wide range of tastes. He constantly introduces new features and explores trendy ingredients to keep their offerings fresh and enticing. Prime’s extensive and unmatched wine list offers a curated selection

C HE F ’S SE LE CT ION | FOOD + BE VE RAGE

that perfectly complements their menu. Prime prides itself on serving premier cuts of prime meat, ensuring that every bite is a testament to quality. Additionally, the diverse menu features creative dishes influenced by global culinary traditions gleaned from Genao’s extensive travels, providing something for every palate. Seasonality also plays a pivotal role in the inspiration for dishes. One of Prime’s signature dishes is a classic Beef Wellington. Prime is proud to be one of the few restaurants

Experience diverse and creative dishes influenced by global culinary traditions.

in the area that offers this delightful dish. With its flaky, golden crust, the Beef Wellington pairs beautifully with a rich brie fondue and bordelaise, creating a harmonious balance of flavors that keeps guests coming back for more. Another favorite is their Veal Chop Parmesan. This cut features tender, bone-in meat, covered in a parmesan crust infused with truffle. Broiled to perfection, it delivers a rich and satisfying dining experience. Prime also offers a Power Lunch, which allows guests to sample a variety of dishes during lunch, making it an excellent opportunity to experience the diverse flavors of Prime. And, when you add excellence in hospitality and service, it’s no wonder Prime is a Stamford favorite. Prime is open seven days a week, including Sunday brunch.

“The diverse menu features creative dishes influenced by global culinary traditions gleaned from Genao’s ex tensive travels, providing something for every palate.” JANUARY 2 0 2 5 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/STA M F O R D C T

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YOGA Four of Stamford’s BEST in YOGA for a HEALTHIER YOU

Harmony Yoga Harmony Yoga Studio, a boutique yoga experience for over 20 years is here to serve you! Carol Shwidock, a 500 hour certified Yoga Therapist, uses her skills to create a customized class for you. Be it back pain, anxiety, shoulder issues etc, Carol draws from both Chinese and Ayurvedic Medicine techniques (she is also a certified physical therapist) to help you find balance in your mind, body and spirit. Harmony Yoga offers private sessions, retreats, workshops, and group classes! Receive reiki, essential oils and a sound bath along with guided meditation and gentle movements to cultivate harmony from the inside out and the outside in! @ H A R M O N YO G A S T U D I O

Dew Yoga Dew Yoga, a sanctuary to learn yoga, meditation and holistic wellness is located in North Stamford. The studio has served Fairfield County since 2010 providing classes accessible to all ages, abilities and experiences. Students can engage in professional training, healing events, workshops and connection with a compassionate community. Dew supports local service organizations including DVCC, offers free and low-cost programs for special populations including youth, Yoga in Spanish, sober events, cancer patients and serving people from all walks of life. @ D E W YO G AC T

LOCA LLY SOU R CE D | HE ALT H + WE LLN E SS

Thrive Mind & Body Trading spreadsheets for stretches? Yep, that’s Alessia! After 25 years in corporate America, Alessia left a cushy finance job to pursue her true love: health & wellness! As the owner of Thrive Mind & Body LLC, she blends serious wellness know-how with a sprinkle of fun to help people thrive. Her unique, custom programs don’t just focus on fitness—they bring mind and body together, empowering people to feel fantastic from desk to dinner table, one mindful movement at a time. @T H R I V E W I T H A L E S S I A

Connecticut Power Yoga Connecticut Power Yoga is a welcoming, community-focused studio in Stamford, CT, offering heated power vinyasa yoga using soothing infrared heat. Our dynamic, challenging flows build strength, flexibility, and mindfulness for all levels. What sets us apart is our passionate instructors, personalized attention, and inclusive environment that fosters connection. The infra-red heat enhances flexibility and detoxification, while our unique mix of power, balance, and relaxation supports members’ lasting wellness beyond the mat. Connecticut Power Yoga is Stamford’s original Hot Yoga Studio, has won Best of Gold Coast and Best of Stamford for the last three years and has been a staple here for 8 years. @ C T P O W E RYO G A JANUARY 2 0 2 5 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/STA M F O R D C T

Sara h Swa nberg Doctor of Acupuncture & Chinese Medicine Co-Founder and Clinical Director at Indigo Wellness Group

WHAT DOES HEALTH MEAN TO YOU?

WHAT ARE SOME WAYS YOU MAINTAIN A HEALTHY LIFESTYLE?

I keep it simple and manageable. I prioritize healthy food, good sleep, and movement in different ways, but most importantly, I focus on supportive, fulfilling relationships. Striving for perfection can be stressful, so I remind our Indigo patients that small, practical choices make the biggest impact.

WHAT DO YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT THE STAMFORD COMMUNITY?

I love Stamford’s connected, supportive vibe, which is remarkable for such a big city! For healthy meals, I love Layla’s Falafel, Bar Taco, and DIG. You’ll often find me at Lifetime Fitness doing a variety of strength-based classes. I love our yoga scene at CT Power Yoga, Dew Yoga, and the Alliance Center. I also admire the strength, stamina and confidence my daughters gain through Irish Dance at Lynn Academy of Irish Dance. Our beaches and parks are gorgeous and I love to get outside whenever possible.

TOP TIPS FOR LIVING A HEALTHY LIFESTYLE:

Don’t aim for perfection; focus on the basics first. Listen to your body—it often knows what it needs. Stay hydrated and get quality sleep. Move your body in ways that make you happy. Surround yourself with supportive people. Enjoy the journey! Health is lifelong, so keep it light and give yourself grace.

S ELF CA R E | L I FE + C ULTU RE

ARTICLE BY SARAH BAMFORD @HYBRIDMEDIACOMM

Health means finding balance—physically, mentally, and emotionally. It’s not about being perfect but about feeling good, staying resilient, and having the energy to show up for the people I care about. Living with Type 1 Diabetes since age 7 has taught me that health is about being empowered, informed, and proactive in caring for myself and supporting others.

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NINA KUCH’S GENEROSITY WILL FEED A LOT OF PEOPLE.

The Angel of North St amford ARTICLE BY MARTY SHAPIRO | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JEFF WIRZ Nina Kuch

G IV IN G BAC K | REAL ESTAT E

“

“ T h i s i s m o re t h a n a re a l e s t at e t r a n s ac t io n fo r m e … it ’s a m i s s io n .” - Su z e t t e K r a u s

There are some acts of generosity that do not make the headlines, but there is one taking place in Stamford that should. A local North Stamford resident, Nina Kuch, is donating her house to Midwest Food Bank New England (valued at approximately $1 million), an organization that provides food to the 1 in 8 people in Connecticut suffering from food insecurity. Midwest Food Bank is a non-denominational, faith-based organization that gathers food donations, primarily from large companies, and distributes them to other non-profit organizations and disaster sites. Nina and her late husband, a former GE executive, custom built their colonial-style house nestled in the woods of North Stamford in 1998. The house includes several unique features including a banister from President Ulysses Grant’s Washington, DC mansion. At 87 years old, Nina is moving to Virginia, and decided she wanted to donate the house to a charity. After vetting several through Charity Navigator, she landed on Midwest Food Bank, the country’s largest food bank by revenue (donations), who, in Connecticut alone, distribute nearly $50 million in food each year to those experiencing hunger related to changes in circumstance, rising costs, job loss or a myriad of other reasons. To start the process, Nina and Midwest Food Bank New England’s Kristen McNamara,

interviewed several local realtors before selecting Suzette Kraus of Compass, who they felt understood Nina’s mission better than anyone. On November 15, Nina signed the deed of her house over to Midwest Food Bank, and Suzette began the process of selling it. "I am truly honored to be involved in this incredible effort. This is more than a real estate transaction for me … it's a mission. With the support of my extensive Compass network and initiatives through Compass Cares, I can provide the exposure this property deserves. It's amazing to know that the sale of this one home will impact millions, and I am grateful to play a role in such a meaningful cause." said Suzette. Midwest Food Bank distributes $40 worth of food for every $1.00 donated in Connecticut and beyond, providing hope and nourishing both physical and spiritual hunger. They receive most of their donations from large companies like Kellogg's, that donate their overstock as it approaches its sell-by date. But every once in a blue moon, they will come across an angel like Nina Kuch, whose $1 million donation ($40 million of food) will do wonders for this community. Midwest Food Bank also provides disaster relief assistance. They are dedicated in the fight against food scarcity. Please consider a donation at Midwestfoodbank.org.

JANUARY 2 0 2 5 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/STA M F O R D C T

New for YOU ARTICLE BY LAURIE A. GUZDA

THE NEW YEAR IS A GREAT TIME TO LEARN OR DO SOMETHING NEW. Those who value their curiosity know that it’s important to learn something new on a regular basis. It could be as simple as a new word each day, a new language or skill. January is a great time to discover the many options available in your own backyard. Whether you want to explore your artistic side, add fun exercise, or challenge your intellect, here are a few suggestions to consider to stoke your inner fire during the chilly month of January. Remember, the more it scares you - the greater the reward.

The simple purchase of snowshoes allows year-round hiking. Mianus is a great place to snowshoe with friends.

I NSP IR E D BY | EDUCATI ON

COMEDY IMPROV: So many people are terrified of improv, yet, it’s not more difficult than answering your phone. It’s a great way to elevate communication skills and enjoy the healthy benefits of laughter. Or, maybe audition for a play? If you love to sing and dance, the chorus is a great way to enjoy yourself and meet new friends. Curtain Call is an excellent option to explore opportunities.

PICKLEBALL: There’s a reason Pickleball is so popular. It’s a great way to get your body moving and to share time with friends or to meet new ones. Pickleball America, located in the Stamford Town Center Mall, offers lessons and numerous courts. Try it. A body in motion is a very healthy choice.

VOLUNTEER: Emotional health can often be served by serving others. There are so many opportunities to give back. Food banks, youth or senior organizations, veterans or women’s empowerment. If you’re an animal lover, volunteer at a shelter or The Stamford Museum & Nature Center. Volunteering is a transformative experience that simultaneously enriches community, provides personal growth, develops professional skills and offers profound psychological benefits by connecting through meaningful service.

FOOD: Mental health requires physical self care - quality sleep, regular exercise and balanced nutrition. How about a cooking class? Hudson Table at 44 John Street offers weekly classes. Culinary Works at DEANE, 1267 E Main Street, offers seasonal classes. Or maybe just gather some friends, ingredients and a YouTube video to learn something new.

JANUARY 2 0 2 5 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/STA M F O R D C T

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Stamford City LifeStyLe™ 26

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O UT D OOR A DV E N T U R E | LIF E + CU LT U RE

ARTICLE BY DON SEAMAN

Creating a Better Snowman A Few Tips to Get You Rolling

There’s probably no more quintessential symbol of winter than a snowman. We’ve all seen Frosty and are probably pretty familiar with Olaf. But if you want to install one into your own yard, you’ll have to put a little elbow grease into creating one without the help of world-class animators. Here are some tips to help give your yard a well-dressed frozen sentry sure to turn your neighbors’ heads.

well-packed snowball and get rolling, but don’t just go in one direction. Roll the ball to start accumulating snow, then roll back, then roll in a different direction. Pack and begin to shape your snowball as you go. Reinforce as necessary. Look to use a 3-2-1 ratio for the sections.

Tip 3:

EVEN SNOWMEN CRAVE STABILITY.

Tip 1:

NOT ALL SNOW IS SNOWMAN SNOW. It takes more than a flurry to build a snowman. Heavy, slushy snow won’t work, and if it’s too powdery dry it won’t pack together. If you can pack a good snowball, you can build a snowman. Bonus tip: Dry snow can be modified to workable snowman snow with a quick spritz of water from a spray bottle, or a light mist from that garden hose you really should have already put away for the winter.

Tip 2:

ROLL TOWARDS YOUR GOAL — THE LONG WAY. Decide where to position your snowman and make that your finish line. Start with a

Once you get your base section in place, shore up the bottom with snow. Then at the top, create a bowl-shaped indentation to allow the next section to sit securely. Ensure each section is well-packed with added snow around the “joint” between the sections.

Tip 4:

SNOW IS HEAVY. ENLIST A BUDDY. A willing helper can help lift that heavy next stage into place. You can even roll it onto a tarp and lift from either side to get it up there. A third set of hands can help move it into place. Otherwise, use plywood as a ramp to roll it up yourself (braced well against the bottom with plenty of support underneath, so as to not damage the base). You might need an extra bowl of Wheaties to roll it up there alone.

Tip 5:

PILOT HOLES ARE YOUR FRIEND. Simply jamming details into your snowman can mess with its integrity. Use a sharp stick to gently create some pilot holes for your features before you set them into place.

Tip 6:

GIVE HIM SOME PERSONALITY. There’s always that classic snowman uniform of a scarf, hat, a carrot nose and coal (sure, we all have that lying around these days — river rocks might be easier to get your hands on). Or you could be a bit more creative, maybe with an old oversized Hawaiian shirt, a jazzy vest, or go all-out and channel your inner Martha Stewart, breaking out your Dremel to make something custom for your wintery lawn guest. You might need to use your imagination — not many of us have corncob pipes or top hats anymore, either. Pro tip: if you’re dressing your snowman, put any body clothing you might use on before adding the arms. Just remember. If you mess it up, it’s ok because he’ll be back again some day.

JANUARY 2 0 2 5 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/STA M F O R D C T

NBC UNIVERSAL’S Stamford Studios CELEBRATES 15 Years

“In 2009, we took a leap of faith in relocating to the wonderful community of Stamford, CT, building a state-of-art facility that infused new energy into the production of the shows,” said Tracie Wilson, Executive Vice President, NBC Universal Syndication Studios & E! News. “I’m so grateful and proud of our extremely dedicated team at Stamford Studios. We invite productions from all corners of our industry to come check out the magic.” Located within the New York metropolitan area, the 46,000-square-foot production center offers two soundstages, state-of-the-art HD control rooms, support space, 24/7 security and easy access to several downtown municipal parking garages. "We are thrilled to be celebrating our 15th anniversary right here in the heart of Downtown Stamford,” said Vinnie Fusco, Senior Vice President, Production and Operations, “This milestone is a testament to the incredible team that we've built here at Stamford Studios and the loyal community that supports us.” Additionally, with the recent opening of a stateof-the-art digital studio, aptly named the Digital Factory, the facility now offers production space for all forms of digital media, including a podcast studio, photography studio, green screen capabilities, live streaming and much more.

B ACK STAGE | P RO FESS I ON AL SE RVICE S

“THIS MILESTONE I S A T E S TA M E N T TO THE INCR EDIBLE TEA M T H A T W E ’ V E B U I LT H E R E AT S TA M FOR D STUDIOS A ND THE L OYA L C O M M U N I T Y T H AT S U PP OR T S US .”

S t a t e - o f- t h e - A r t Sound Stages a nd Dig it a l Factor y Invite Production to St amford

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| Experience Luxury in the Sky HIGHGROVE, a Robert A.M. Stern designed building, offers residents spacious apartments and elegant features: • Private elevator landing • Valet parking • 24-hour concierge • Skylit indoor pool/jacuzzi/sauna • Designer kitchens with Sub-Zero and Wolf appliances • Dramatic high ceilings • Pet friendly community • Direct shuttle service to train station

Call Today for a Tour! HIGHGROVESTAMFORD.COM // 203.428.4074 // 70 Forest St, Stamford, Connecticut 06901 JANUARY 2 0 2 5 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/STA M F O R D C T

JANUARY 2025

events A S E L E C T I O N O F U P C O M I N G LO C A L E V E N T S

JA NUA RY 5T H

Dinosaur Discoveries: Extinction Day Stamford Museum & Nature Center | 11:00 AM It’s the last day of our Dinosaur Discoveries: Ancient Fossils, New Ideas exhibition! Join us for one last celebration! Drop in anytime from 11 am -2 pm for live animal presentations, crafts, and our dino and building station play zone! Of course, the exhibition will be open for last looks as well! SM&NC Members: FREE | Visitors: FREE with admission JA NUA RY 9 T H

New Year's Celebration Stamford Senior Center, Government Center | 3:00 PM Live music by Jack Lynn. Dino's back, a tribute to Dean Martin. Drinks and hors d'oeuvres will be served. Visit: stamfordseniorct.org/programs for a complete list of upcoming programs and activities. JA NUA RY 1 6T H

Friends Author Series: An Evening with Fiona Davis Ferguson Library | 6:00 PM Meet The New York Times bestselling author Fiona Davis, who will discuss her latest novel, The Stolen Queen, centered on the Metropolitan Museum of Art and its famed Met Gala while, for the first time, exploring a territory beyond New York City—Egypt’s Valley of the Kings. Tickets are $10 for Friends members; $15 for the general public. JA NUA RY 1 7 T H

Who's Bad The Palace Theatre | 8:00 PM Whether you idolized the Jackson 5 or learned to moonwalk to Billie Jean, Who’s Bad is THE ULTIMATE music-and-dance driven Michael Jackson homage. This band of professionals elevate the legacy of pop music’s King - pushing themselves to raise the level of excitement and awe, while embodying MJ’s mission to bring people together of all races, genders, and cultures through music. JA NUA RY 2 3 RD

Debra DiGiovanni New York Comedy Club - Stamford | 7:00 PM Debra DiGiovanni is a standup and performer originally from Toronto, now based in Los Angeles. Debra can be seen around the world appearing in comedy festivals like Moontower, High Plains, JFL Sydney, and JFL Montreal. Her most recent comedy album "Lady Jazz" was nominated for a Juno award: Comedy Album of the Year 2019. JA NUA RY 2 9 T H

Toddler Storytime Harbor Point, Triangle Park | 4:30 PM Looking for an exciting learning activity for your little ones? Join us for Toddler Storytime and experience an evening of storytelling with creative and educational tales. We're in Triangle Park from 4:30 – 5:00 pm on the grassy steps past the Splash Pad. All toddlers and their adults are welcome at Storytime, we can’t wait to see you there!

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LOCAL • LONG DISTANCE • INTERNATIONAL • COMMERCIAL JANUARY 2 0 2 5 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/STA M F O R D C T

energize your morning! Start your day right to elevate time, space and attitude. ARTICLE BY JACQUI JUSTICE, FUNCTIONAL NUTRITIONIST @JACQUIJUSTICE

“YOU ARE NEVER TOO OLD TO SET ANOTHER GOAL OR TO DREAM A NEW DREAM. — C.S. Lewis

Power Up Your Morning for the New Year Ahead! For as long as I can remember, my New Year’s resolution has been to become “a morning person.” This year, I’m switching gears and committing to something more doable (and fun): energizing my morning. Try these tips to start your morning off with a bang too!:

GET YOUR MORNING BOOGIE ON:

Wake up to music that makes you want to jump (or at least roll) out of bed and move! Game changer!

TAKE AN ENERGIZING SHOWER ON THE INSIDE: Hydrate with 8 ounces of pure water upon waking.

TAKE A REFRESHING “FACE PLUNGE”:

Dunk your face in cold water to boost energy and circulation.

SOAK UP THE LIGHT:

Get some natural morning light to regulate your internal clock for better sleep and all-day energy.

STRETCH IT OUT:

A few minutes of gentle stretching awakens your muscles and gets the blood flowing.

FUEL SMARTLY:

Enjoy a balanced breakfast packed with protein, healthy fats, and fiber to keep your energy steady all morning. Cheers to feeling vibrant and ready to take on the day. Let’s make this our most energized year yet!

H EA LT H Y LIF E ST Y LE | H E ALT H + WE LLN E SS

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