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contents SEPT/OCT 2026 vol. 17 | no. 5

departments 8 FOUNDER’S LETTER b y d onna mof f ly 11 STATUS REPORT

BUZZ Supporters of the Stamford Harbor Lighthouse Project are working to bring the city’s 1882 landmark and beacon back from the brink. SHOP Our fall forecast predicts fresh looks for this fashion season.

46 on the cover: viktoria kostyuk, angela chavez, alek modi, paula zanol photography by katharine calderwood

PLUS:

Finalists revealed for the 17th annual A-LIST Awards

GO At Waldorf Astoria Los Cabos Pedregal, private plunge pools, butler service and clifffside dining transform a Cabo getaway into something much harder to leave behind. DO Now that the kids are off to college and out of the house, it’s time for empty-nesters embrace the freedom and fun that come with having more time for yourself. EAT Are you ready for a taste of Provence, close to home? There’s an elevated dining culture in downtown Darien, and a new European wine bar where you can explore obscure varietals. 44 MONEY MATTERS

THE NEXT CHAPTER Meet the 2026 class of Teens to Watch, 10 remarkable students whose ideas, leadership and curiosity are shaping bright futures.

by joey quinzani

WHERE STAMFORD COMES TO PLAY Pickleball is attracting passionate players from all over the city, including newcomers and seasoned competitors, thanks to a welcoming community atmosphere.

by scott thomas

49 PEOPLE & PLACES 102 POSTSCRIPT 103 INDEX OF ADVERTISERS CORRECTION : Dr. M. Bina Park of Dr. Bina Park Orthodontics was inadvertently omitted from the Top Dentist list in our July/ August issue. Dr. Bina was selected for inclusion as a 2026 Top Dentist and should have appeared among this year’s honorees. We regret the omission.

STAMFORD MAGAZINE SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2026, VOL. 17, NO. 5 // STAMFORD MAGAZINE (ISSN 2153-2680) is published bimonthly by Moffly Media, Inc., 205 Main St., Westport, CT 06880. POSTMASTER: Send address changes (Form 3579) to STAMFORD MAGAZINE, P.O. BOX 9309, Big Sandy, TX 75755-9607.

FOOD: VENERA ALEXANDROVA, VOWS: DEIR DRE VOLK PHOTOGRAPHY

features

46 VOWS

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vol. 17 | no. 5 | september/october 2026 editorial

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editorial director Cristin Marandino

Jonathan W. Moffly jonathan@moffly.com

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205 Main Street, Westport, CT 06880 phone: 203-222-0600 fax: 203-222-0937 mail@mofflymedia.com Publishers of GREENWICH, NEW CANAAN - DARIEN, WESTPORT, STAMFORD and athome Magazines advertising inquiries Lemuel Bandala email advertise@mofflymedia.com. TO SUBSCRIBE, renew, or change your address, please email us at subscribe@stamfordmag.com, call 203-222-0600, or write to STAMFORD magazine, 205 Main Street, Westport, CT 06880. U.S. subscription rates: $19.95/1 year, $34.95/2 years; Canada and Foreign, U.S. $40/1 year; $69/2 years. Prices are subject to change without notice. FOR REPRINTS or E-PRINTS, please call 203-222-0600 or email reprints@moffly.com. ADVERTISING INQUIRIES, please contact Lemuel Bandala, call 203-222-0600 or email advertise@moffly.com. STAMFORD magazine™ is a trademark of Moffly Media. © 2026 Moffly Media. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means without prior written permission from the publisher, except as permitted by law. The opinions expressed by writers commissioned for articles published are not necessarily those of the magazine. Publishers of GREENWICH, NEW CANAAN • DARIEN + ROWAYTON, WESTPORT • WESTON • WILTON, STAMFORD, and ATHOME IN FAIRFIELD COUNTY magazines, and BEST OF THE GOLD COAST CONNECTICUT awards; Moffly Media, 205 Main Street, Westport, CT 06880 phone: 203-222-0600 email: mail@moffly.com

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founder’s page

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2026 / DONNA MOFFLY

“When Liz Hart asked daughter Lolly how her first day of nursery school went, the little girl replied: ‘Well, nobody laughed and nobody cried.’”

ids will be kids, and some may turn out to be as remarkable as the teens we feature on these pages every September. But meanwhile, here are some classic examples of their pint-sized views on life. On Hospitality: Jane Kendall recalls her first Christmas pageant at Edie Bickell’s Nursery School. Little Janie had a screaming tantrum because Jesus didn’t have a grandmother. And the innkeeper, Carl Walters, said to Mary and Joseph: “I’m sorry. There’s no room in the inn, but would you like to come in for a drink?” On Curiosity: One Halloween, Dr. Jack Prunier lay down on an old examination table he’d rolled into the foyer of their house. When trick-or-treaters came in, he’d moan and slide a handout from under the sheet that his wife Suzanne, dressed as a witch, had draped over him. The older kids would take the candy and quickly back away. But one four-year-old boy earnestly asked: “Does he always sleep in the front hall?” On Godliness: My little daughter Audrey and I were kneeling by her bed saying prayers: “Jesus, tender shepherd, hear me, bless thy little lamb tonight…” when she looked up and said: “You know, I love Jesus.” Then added with enthusiasm: “And I like his father, too!” When visiting from Long Island, Kyle and Lauren Craig’s grandmother liked to stay at the Greenwich Hyatt and invite them for a sleepover. Fresh from religious education, the kids spotted her in the lobby and raced over, Lauren greeting her with “Glory to God in the Hyatt, Grandma!” Eight–year-old Miles Patrick McDonald, who was brought into the world through modern technology, was taking religious instruction in preparation for Confirmation. For homework, the kids were asked to write a prayer to God. So, he wrote: “Dear God: I don’t know who my father is, but please let him go to heaven, whoever he might be— except if he’s Donald Trump.”

On Romance: Susan Ward had a little nephew who she was especially close to. When she told him that she was in love and going to be married soon, he replied: “What’s he got that I haven’t got?” On Aging: The morning of her birthday, I woke up our daughter saying, “Happy Birthday, Audrey! You’re five years old today!” “Am I really five?” she asked, all excited. I assured her she was. “Oh, good,” she said. “I can go to school and beat up Sarah Sulger.” On Driving: With my grandson in a car seat in back, I drove over to Waveny to check out the site for a photo shoot behind the building. Pulling in, I gave Misha his choice: He could come with me or stay in the car. It would only take a couple of minutes. “Oh, D-D, I better come with you,” he said, “or a policeman might think I drove the car here all by myself!” On School: When Liz Hart asked daughter Lolly how her first day of nursery school went at the First Congo, the little girl replied: “Well, nobody laughed and nobody cried.” On Honesty: After a nursery school play at Country Day, the headmaster sang the children’s praises in assembly: “That was just terrific,” he gushed. “I just don’t know how you ever did it.” And from the back of the room, loud and clear, came Billie’s voice: “We practiced and practiced, you idiot!” (“Billie,” now a married man, is still too embarrassed to own up to the story.) On Generosity: Janie Galbreath and daughter Elizabeth were going through some old clothes she and her sister had outgrown. “Oh, what are we going to do with all these clothes?” she asked the seven-year-old, who promptly responded: “Let’s give them to that nice old man.” “Who?” Janie asked, Wondering what older gentleman would want smocked dresses. “You know, Mom,” said Elizabeth. “Good old Will!.” You can’t make this stuff up. Thanks for the memories, Kids. S

VENTURE PHOTOGRAPHY, GREENWICH, CT

OF KIDS AND CANDOR

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Golf Outing

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One Swing Can Change a Life Enjoy a great day on the course while supporting older adults.

For registration & details: silversource.org/events-insights or 203-718-5446

SilverSource is a non-profit organization that provides a safety net for seniors so they can remain safely in their homes, with the heat and lights on, food on the table, and access to the medical care they need. This helps to ensure older adults in our community can age with dignity, stability, and connection.

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buzz STATUS REPORT

SAVING A TREASURE SUPPORTERS OF THE STAMFORD HARBOR LIGHTHOUSE PROJECT ARE

WORKING TO BRING THE CITY’S 1882 LANDMARK BACK FROM THE BRINK

by linda tuc cio - ko onz

PHIL NELSON

unshine spilled across Long Island Sound as Brendan McGee motored out to the Stamford Harbor Lighthouse to help prep for a fresh paint job earlier this summer. Soon, he and a small crew began the grinding task of removing stubborn rust from the historic 1882 structure. Working on the cast-iron caisson—part of an ambitious $2.2 million restoration project—wasn’t a smoothsailing process. “People are really going to be surprised at how beautiful this lighthouse is when we’re finished,” McGee says.

The structure sits on 10 acres of submerged land, about twothirds of a mile from shore. “We’re doing early mornings this week because of the heat,” he says, referring to a recent wave of sweltering days punctuated by afternoon thunderstorms. After standing watch for 144 years—and saving countless lives—the 60-foot lighthouse needs saving of its own. McGee, an entrepreneur who grew up fishing local waters (even working on a lobster boat), and Gary Kalan, a retired anesthesiologist whose home overlooks the beacon, are spearheading the rescue.

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2026 STAMFORD

11:07 AM

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was home to multiple keepers and their families. Jewell writes of Nahor “Naylor” Jones, a Civil War veteran who built a dock and brought a chicken coop out there. He lost both when a nor’easter hit and sent his chickens out to sea. Next was Adolph Obman, (1904-1907). His wife was the first to have a baby there. John Cook followed. Cook (1907-1909) made the newspaper when he struggled to reach the lighthouse landing in a small boat with his wife, Martha, while his mother-in-law watched from the lighthouse. They hit rocks and lost an oar before disappearing from view as a steamer ship passed. Martha’s mother thought they were lost at sea, but they were found “stumbling on the beach” on Long Island. Jewell’s book shares more, as does the Stamford History Center, where the city’s maritime past is preserved in newspaper clippings and photos. (Learn more at stamfordhistory.org.) The last official keeper was Martin Luther Sowle (1938-1953), who earned a Congressional Silver Medal for rescuing a distressed vessel and its captain in 1939. When the federal government decided a flashing light and foghorn would be put into service and operated from the mainland, the seven-level lighthouse, which has a kitchen and bedrooms, was offered for sale. Over the years there were several owners. In 1984 it was auctioned to a banker who restored it as a second home but never stayed there, and it passed to his son, Kalan says. The lighthouse was then boarded up. It was in urgent need of repair when Kalan and McGee created the Stamford Harbor Lighthouse Project to raise the $500,000 needed to purchase it. McGee, a preservationist and

Above (from left): Brendan McGee, cofounder of Stamford Harbor Lighthouse Project; Heather Cavanaugh of the Stamford Chamber of Commerce; U.S. Congressman Jim Himes; SHLP cofounder Gary Kalan, M.D.; and attorney Charles Jansen. Top: The lighhouse in the late 1800s.

“This is a race against time. This lighthouse has been dormant for 40 years, and there was no plan to acquire and save it for future generations,” says McGee, who teamed up with Kalan in 2022 to create the nonprofit Stamford Harbor Lighthouse Project. “Ultimately, we’d like to have it accessible so the public can get a feel for what it was like for a lighthouse keeper to live here,” Kalan says. They also aim to revitalize the property and collaborate with SoundWaters on education and research involving oyster bed rehabilitation. Stamford’s harbor, a popular commercial and recreation area, is known for its hazardous rocks

and ledges, and for its past as a bustling international hub of ship traffic. In the 1800s, erecting a lighthouse became “a frontburner issue,” writes Karen Jewell in A Maritime History of the Stamford Waterfront. “The success of Stamford came by the sea,” says McGee, noting ships moved everything from food to lumber. “It all came by sea; there was no I-95.” Only 33 “sparkplug” lighthouses remain. McGee says this is a beautiful example “with intricate Victorian details.” In the beginning, “the only way to get in there was a rusty old staircase that we had to replace,” Kalan says, of the lighthouse that

longtime owner of Brendan’s 101 cafe in Rowayton, had had experience restoring Greens Ledge Lighthouse in Norwalk when he set his eyes on Stamford’s beacon. At the time, he and Kalan were strangers. Then kismet stepped in. Kalan, who enjoys sailing and boating, says his interest piqued when he read about McGee’s success with Greens Ledge, which today offers tours, programming and overnight stays. Having recently retired, he wanted to keep busy with something meaningful. “And literally, Brendan was on Google Earth to see who lived closest to the Stamford Lighthouse—and who he could partner with,” Kalan says. “This was the same time I was emailing Brendan to see if he had any interest in working on this. So we feel it was sort of meant to be.” Support for the project is growing. McGee points out lighthouses are active aids to navigation and still save lives today. “We have produced the organization that will be the steward of this lighthouse forever,” McGee says. “It’s important that communities realize the significance of these lighthouses and get involved to help us.” stamfordlighthouse.org S

TOP: STAMFORD HISTORY CENTER

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go Paradise Found by m e g a n gagnon

COURTESY OF WALDORF ASTORIA LOS CABOS PEDREGAL

AT WALDORF ASTORIA LOS CABOS PEDREGAL, private plunge pools, butler service and cliffside dining transform a Cabo getaway into something much harder to leave behind

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very good vacation comes with an inevitable countdown clock. It starts ticking the minute you arrive, usually around the same time as the first drink. You’re staring at a dramatic stretch of coastline, wondering how you got so lucky, while a small, annoying voice in your head is already doing the math: Three more sleeps. Four more days. This time next week, you’ll be answering emails.

opposite page: Between rugged cliffs and the Pacific, the site is a study in Baja beauty; a birds-eye view of El Farallón above: Premium suites enjoy private beach views; Hammocks encourage a slower pace below: Each room includes a plunge pool; Craft cocktails and a creative menu at Mar y Leña

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go At most resorts, every transition feels like a tiny loss. Breakfast becomes pool time, pool time becomes lunch, and suddenly you’re calculating how many sunsets you have left. The Waldorf Astoria Los Cabos Pedregal seems specifically designed to interrupt that cycle. From the moment you arrive— through a private, torch-lit tunnel, no less—the magic begins. Tucked into the cliffs at the southernmost tip of Mexico’s Baja California peninsula, the resort feels like a cocoon suspended between desert and sea. In your cliffside hideaway, the staff, known affectionately as the Pedregal People, appear before you realize you need anything. They pop up to tell you about the margarita of the day or to deliver fresh guacamole and Coronitas— or cocktails, if you prefer—to your room for 4 o’clock happy hour. It’s small gestures like these that slowly quiet the mental tally of days remaining. Or perhaps it’s simply the 24/7 soundtrack of waves crashing beyond your plunge pool, gently washing away those intrusive thoughts. Either way, it works. And here, everyone gets a plunge pool. Every one of the resort’s 112 rooms, suites, casitas and villas opens onto a private terrace with its own pool,

“from the moment you arrive—through a private, torch-lit tunnel, no less—the magic begins. tucked into the cliffs at the southernmost tip of mexico’s baja california peninsula, the resort feels like a cocoon suspended between desert and sea.”

above: A private pool, the resort below and the Pacific beyond. below: A torch-lit tunnel sets the scene for a dramatic arrival; Suite bathrooms open straight into outdoor spaces; Under a canopy of woven lanterns, Mar y Leña serves wood-fired steaks and bold Baja flavors (left).

transforming the outdoor space into a secluded retreat. Inside, a recent renovation has infused the accommodations with an authentic sense of place. Otomi textiles, handwoven accents, sculptural artwork and custom furnishings by Mexican artisans lend warmth and personality, making the rooms feel more like an elegant private residence than another beautifully appointed luxury hotel. There are delightful discoveries at every turn: sunny yellow tile wrapping the shower, whimsical fish-shaped hardware on the vanity and a striking sea turtle shell suspended above the bed—a nod to the property’s enduring symbol. Together, they create spaces that feel deeply connected to Baja rather than polished enough to exist anywhere with an ocean view. The standard rooms hardly feel standard. But if you're traveling with family or friends—or simply want to lean all the way into the fantasy—the suites, casitas and villas are worth the splurge. Ranging from one- to four-bedroom layouts, they offer expansive indoor-outdoor living, stamfordmag.com

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these photos: Local design and Mexican craftsmanship bring a sense of place to the resort’s guest rooms.

generous entertaining spaces and front-row access to the Pacific, along with the added ease of private butler service. Fortunately, the food more than lives up to the setting. Mornings begin at Don Manuel’s, where breakfast starts strong. Order the huevos rancheros divorciados, blanketed in both red and green sauces, and don’t leave without trying the unexpectedly addictive carrot margarita. Return for dinner, where the menu leans into modern interpretations of Mexican fare— think braised lamb cheeks in “mole de olla”—or take a more casual route with the bar menu and its variety of street tacos. As the sun begins its descent, Mar y Leña transforms the Beach Club into one of the resort’s most romantic settings. Beneath woven lanterns suspended from the palapa roof, diners settle in over Baja-inspired steaks, creative starters and smoky cocktails, while staff appear with blankets as soon as the ocean breeze turns cool. If you’re lucky, the evening ends with fireworks over the beach. Then there’s El Farallón, the cliffside restaurant that has become synonymous with the resort itself. Reached by a winding path through the rocks, dinner begins with Champagne overlooking the Pacific before continuing on an open-air terrace carved into the cliffs above the crashing waves. Fresh local seafood takes center stage, but it's hard to separate the meal from its surroundings—a dramatic stretch of coastline that feels more Mediterranean than Mexican, yet unmistakably Cabo. Perhaps the best strategy is to book a spa treatment just before departure—a final pause before heading back through the torch-lit tunnel. The spa extends the same elemental rhythm found throughout the resort, with treatments guided by moon phases, ocean currents and traditional Mexican healing rituals. But all paths eventually lead back through the tunnel. And on the other side, the countdown clock is no longer about the days left—it’s about when you’ll come back. waldorfastorialoscabos pedregal.com S

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2026 STAMFORD

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do EMPTY NEST, FULL LIFE NOW THAT THE KIDS ARE OFF TO COLLEGE AND OUT OF THE HOUSE, IT’S TIME TO EMBRACE THE FREEDOM AND FUN THAT COMES WITH HAVING MORE TIME FOR YOURSELF

ack-to-school hits differently when “school” means moving your child into a dorm room and watching them step into a new chapter of independence. While the month of September always seems to signal transition, empty nesters can find the sudden quiet and open

schedule a bit surreal. Luckily for those living in Stamford, there is no shortage of community and adult-focused activities. From tranquil morning nature walks to sunset sails, waterfront dinners and giving back, we’ve rounded up a list of ways to stay busy, connected and curious.

LEFT TO RIGHT: JEN WOLF - STOCK.ADOBE.COM; RONNY - STOCK. ADOBE.COM; LIGHTFIELD STUDIOS - STOCK.ADOBE.COM

by liz barron

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SEASON

Spend your weekend mornings visiting one of Stamford’s farmers’ markets. The seasonal produce and freshly baked bread are two great reasons for a visit, but this weekly event also brings locals together to connect with vendors and neighbors. Veterans Memorial Park on Atlantic Street holds a market on Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. from June through October, and it includes everything from cheeses to flowers. The Stamford Museum & Nature Center operates its market stands from June until November Sundays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on its campus, where featured goods include maple syrup that's made on-site and wool products. Fairgate Farm on the city’s west side is open May through October Thursdays from 2 to 7 p.m. and Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.; it's best known for home-grown produce. Harbor Point Square hosts vendors weekly Sundays from July through September, where products range from dairy to prepared foods.

GET ARTSY The Studio Andreas art center located in Springdale is one of Stamford’s hidden gems. It offers classes in woodworking, textiles, ceramics and drawing. Whether you’re an experienced sculptor, a person who dabbles in sketching, or curious about building furniture, there is a broad range of workshops and classes that cater to many skill levels. Options range from BYO Wheel & Wine Ceramic Workshop nights to woodworking classes on Saturday mornings. Also popular are the weekly open-figure drawing sessions. All workshops are held in a fully equipped, 2,000-square-foot studio. Visit studioandreas.com for schedule information and registrations.

CENTER STAGE Since 1927, the historic Palace Theatre has been an anchor of the performing arts scene in lower Fairfield County. The stage has welcomed a range of stars, from Jesse McCartney to tribute bands, and hosts classic performances such as The Nutcracker. The Palace can accommodate a captivated audience of nearly 1,600 people. Another option for live entertainment is the New York Comedy Club on Tresser Boulevard, which provides visitors with a lively Manhattan vibe, even if the commute downtown is just minutes from home. Featuring nationally acclaimed comedians alongside local talent, a night here is sure to induce belly laughs.

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Trivia nights continue to draw engaged crowds to venues in Stamford. Pop into a neighborhood favorite for friendly competition, community connection and a place to show off random knowledge. Half Full Brewery on Pacific Street holds trivia nights on Tuesdays at 7. Fortina in Harbor Point hosts competitions every Wednesday from 7 to 8:30 p.m. (This location also features live music on Tuesdays from 5 to 8 p.m.) Coalhouse Pizza on High Ridge Road hosts games every Wednesday at 7 p.m. SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2026 STAMFORD

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GET COOKING

Hudson Table on John Street boasts a kitchen where even a novice can become a culinary artist. Multiple classes are held weekly in this location, and cuisines range from dim sum to surf and turf and homemade pasta. Chefs lead classes of four to six students who learn a variety of professional techniques, starting with a knife skills demonstration. The best part? You can eat what you make.

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There’s no better season than late summer to get outside. The Mianus River State Park on Merriebrook Lane has miles of trails through 100-olus acres of woods. The Bartlett Arboretum & Gardens on High Ridge Road is an outdoor sanctuary featuring walking paths and wildflower gardens. Cove Island Park has a one-mile trail where visitors can walk, run or bike while taking in water views of the Sound.

REACH FOR THE STARS The new astronomy center and observatory at the Stamford Museum & Nature Center on Scofieldtown Road has adult-oriented laser shows every weekend at 9 p.m. Friday nights feature music by Led Zeppelin; on Saturdays, it’s Michael Jackson. There’s also a rotating and robust schedule of adult classes that ranges from printmaking to cider pressing.

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SEA LEVEL

GIVE BACK Volunteering can be one of the most powerful ways to connect with your community, and in Stamford there are numerous opportunities to help. Inspirica on Franklin Street is one of the largest providers of assistance to the homeless. Building One Community in the Cove is an organization that helps immigrants acclimate and settle into Stamford. Future 5 in Landmark Square helps underresourced students reach their goals through education and career counseling.

TIMELESS FINDS

SERVE UP

Stamford has a vibrant antiques scene. Numerous 19th-century brick warehouses have been turned into dealer centers. The Downtown Antique Corridor is in the South End/Waterside District and is home to The Antique & Artisan Gallery, Greenwich Living Antiques & Design Center and Avery & Dash Collections. Le Barn is in North Stamford on Webbs Hill Road and sits on a historic farm property. Whether you’re looking to furnish a home, add statement pieces to your collection or just browse for inspiration, these stores are always stocked with unique and timeless treasures.

SOME FUN

Pickleball has taken the town by storm over the last few years. It’s fun and social and a great cardio workout. Pickleball America located in Town Center has indoor courts that can be rented by the hour, plus clinics, classes and leagues. The JCC and Italian Center on Newfield Avenue also have courts that are open to members. Whether you’re a beginner or play competitively, there’s probably a court in the city that works for you.

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September often feels like an extension of summer, with some of the best weather days of the year. And for many people, being on the water makes everything better, even for parents who miss their children. The free Harbor Point Water Taxi is a fun way to cross the canal and travel to a waterfront dinner at Prime. SoundWaters, located in the Cove, offers public sails on an 80-foot schooner through the end of September. It’s perfect for a date night; pack wine and a charcuterie board and enjoy the sunset.

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presents

ANNUAL GALA AND AWARDS CELEBRATION

OCTOBER 23, 2026

HYATT REGENCY, GREENWICH

Impact Award Winners

Patricia Billie Miller Award for Outstanding Community Service

Katherine H. Saunders, MD, FTOS, DABOM Susan Muigai

Chief People Officer, Mastercard

TITLE SPONSOR

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For sponsorship info, please contact Laurie Cohen at lcohen@ctwbdc.org.

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function assistance, and diet and nutritional guidance. The founders had worked together before starting the Waverly Group, which is based in Old Greenwich. Their practice was born from the realization that they can do big things when they work as a team. “We discovered that when we collaborated, we provided so much more information to parents than we would have separately,” says Riordan. “We each came into evaluations looking through different lenses that really complemented one another,” adds Zalis. Working together from different professional perspectives is Waverly’s mission. “Instead of focusing on a single concern, we're able to look at the whole child and help families make sense of what can otherwise feel overwhelming,” says Rohdie. When the trio founded Waverly, they were new to running their own practice, but the team quickly learned the ins and outs. “When we first started, we had just planned to share an office and the rent,” says Riordan. Fifteen years later, the group has morphed into a vibrant community of clinicians, children and their families. “Honestly, I’m surprised by how powerful it feels to build a business alongside two other women,” says Rohdie. “We've built a culture on supporting one another. I think families feel that when they work with Waverly.” Benefits of connecting with this team, say clients, include more cohesive recommendations and reduced stress. In addition, because Riordan and Zalis have children who attended Stamford public schools, Waverly has a unique understanding of how the local system works and what resources are available. “One of the things that stands out most about Stamford is

BETTER TOGETHER

MEET THREE LOCAL WOMEN WHO CAME TOGETHER TO CREATE A SPECIALTY PEDIATRIC PRACTICE DEDICATED TO HELPING CHILDREN THRIVE .

by l i z ba rron

hen families have questions about a child’s developmental or emotional well-being, it can be challenging to navigate the big world of specialists and evaluations. The information can be overwhelming. The Waverly Group was created to help make the process more seamless and collaborative.

Waverly Group was founded by two Stamford natives—clinical psychologist Dr. Lauren Riordan and occupational therapist Lauren Zalis—and boardcertified behavior analyst Alisa Rohdie. As a group, they bring multiple specialties under one roof, including applied behavior analysis, occupational therapy, physical therapy, psychological testing, educational and executive

its diversity. I think one of the community's greatest strengths is the variety of cultures, languages, and life experiences represented in its schools. We've been fortunate to work alongside educators who care deeply about their students and welcome collaboration,” says Rohdie. Waverly works with children from infancy to early adulthood, and as they grow and mature, so do the ways the team supports them. The goal is never to simply identify a diagnosis, but instead, to understand how a child is experiencing the world and to support that perspective. “Families often tell us that one of the hardest parts of navigating services is trying to connect all the dots. At Waverly, those conversations are happening every day. Whether a child is seeing one provider or several, we have the advantage of bringing different professional perspectives together to help guide their care,” says Rohdie. In addition to the therapeutic services offered at the center, Waverly offers activities and group programs for clients. “We create programs specific to what our families need. I’ve run a spin class, a bowling league, a Lego group. We’ve even had a pizza café,” says Zalis. “We continue to evolve and develop individualized programs based on the kids that we serve.” In the future, the team hopes to include more programming for older adolescents. “I'm excited to continue creating programs that are both therapeutic and genuinely fun for children. One of the things I'm most proud of is that children love coming to Waverly,” adds Rohdie. “We've worked hard to create a place where they feel happy, connected and excited to walk through the door. We believe children do their best when they genuinely enjoy being here.”

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David Byrne 28 Khalid w/ Lauv

MAY

AUGUST

JUNE

Jordan Davis w/ Avery Anna 13 Young the Giant w/ Cold War Kids 17 The Black Crowes & Whiskey Myers 19 Ty Myers w/ Brent Cobb 22 James Taylor and His All Star Band 24 Jimmy Eat World w/ The Wonder Years 12

JULY

SEPTEMBER

Alabama Shakes 3 Breaking Benjamin w/ Chevelle 4 Tedeschi Trucks Band w/ Sheryl Crow 5 Tedeschi Trucks Band w/ Sheryl Crow 9 John Fogerty + Steve Winwood 20 O.A.R. w/ Gavin DeGraw and KT Tunstall 1

Sarah McLachlan 10 Dierks Bentley w/ Ricky Skaggs 11 Buju Banton & Stephen Marley 14 Motionless In White w/ Lorna Shore 17 Darius Rucker w/ Robert Randolph 19 Bob Dylan w/ Jimmie Vaughan and The Tilt-A-Whirl Band 21 Ms. Lauryn Hill 25 Billy Currington & Kip Moore 26 Alison Krauss featuring Jerry Douglas 28 “Weird Al” Yankovic w/ Puddles Pity Party 30 For King & Country 31 Fetty Wap 8

CT Pizza & Brew Fest 5 Joe Bonamassa w/ JJ Grey & Mofro 6 Parker McCollum w/ Gabby Barrett 7 Rod Stewart w/ Richard Marx 8 Brit Floyd + Get The Led Out 18 Simple Plan w/ 3OH!3 and Bowling For Soup 23 The Fray w/ Dashboard Confessional 27 Brad Paisley 2

Freya Skye

OCTOBER AND MORE!!!

SCAN FOR TICKETS

HARTFORDHEALTHCAREAMP.COM LINEUP SUBJECT TO CHANGE

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Discover What’s Next From world-class performances, films, music and dance to groundbreaking exhibitions and conversations with today’s leading thinkers, Fairfield University invites you to an exciting world of Arts & Minds experiences.

PHOTO FROM BFI NATIONAL ARCHIVE

B Y S A M A N T HA YA N K S

this photo: The Fab Four run from mobs of fans in Richard Lester’s A Hard Day’s Night. stamfordmag.com

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La Noce d’Alfonse by the Québécois troupe Cirque Alfonse

above: Audrey Flack, Lux Eternal, 2022, acrylic and mixed media on canvas. Image courtesy of the Audrey Flack Foundation.

Thursday, Sept. 17 Fairfield University Art Museum Hieroglyphs to Hype: The Modern Afterlife of Ancient Egypt Opening Night Event and Reception 5:30 p.m. Event 6:30 p.m. Reception Dolan School of Business Event Hall, Bellarmine Hall Galleries, and streaming on Arts & Minds Live Join Megan Paqua, registrar of the Fairfield University Art Museum, and Michelle DiMarzo, PhD, curator of education and academic engagement for a lively discussion on ancient Egypt, scholarly research and how history is reshaped through pop culture. Free; Register at fairfield.edu/museum

Sunday, Sept. 27 Cirque Alfonse La Noce d’Alfonse 4 p.m. Regina A. Quick Center for the Arts This is a family affair! Step into a wildly joyful spectacle where love takes center stage. La Noce d’Alfonse blends impressive acrobatics, live Québécois folk music, and playful humor into an unforgettable “wedding” celebration honoring the union of one lucky couple from the audience. $35 | $5 Fairfield University student | $25 Quick Member tickets at fairfield.edu/quick

and combating the sense of emptiness caused by modern, fast-paced technological and societal changes. $35 | $5 Fairfield University student $25 Quick Member tickets at fairfield.edu/quick

Wednesday, Oct. 7 Arts & Minds and the British Film Institute, Screening: A Hard Day’s Night 7 p.m. Wien Experimental Theatre, Regina A. Quick Center for the Arts This exuberant 1964 romp follows 36 hours in the life of The Beatles at the height of Beatlemania. Director Richard Lester captures John, Paul, George and Ringo’s cheeky Liverpudlian wit as they dodge screaming fans and race around London. Featuring songs like “Can’t Buy Me Love” and “If I Fell,” A Hard Day’s Night is a time capsule from a moment when the Fab Four captured the hearts of the world. This screening is part of a new educational partnership between Fairfield University and the British Film Institute. $15 | Free Fairfield University student | $10 Quick Member tickets at fairfield.edu/quick

Tuesday, Sept. 29 Philip I. Eliasoph Open VISIONS Forum Arthur C. Brooks “Finding Meaning in an Age of Emptiness: An Evening with Arthur C. Brooks” 7:30 p.m. Regina A. Quick Center for the Arts Arthur C. Brooks is a social scientist and one of the world’s leading authorities on human happiness. He is a Vanderbilt University professor, columnist, and host of the podcast Office Hours. Join us for an enlightening conversation as he provides a science backed, practical guide for finding deeper purpose

Tuesday, Oct. 20 Robert Cardinal McElroy, Archbishop of Washington “Catholic Teaching on War and Peace: a Breakthrough Moment” 7:30 p.m. Regina A. Quick Center for the Arts Pope Leo XIV’s recent encyclical Magnifica Humanitas, has raised profound questions about the church’s traditional understanding of “just war theory,” and warns of the dangers of the use of artificial intelligence in warfare. In June of this year, the consistory of cardinals met to discuss the encyclical and a new position on war. Cardinal McElroy will share his perspective on these developments. Presented by Fairfield University’s Office of Mission and Ministry. Free; Register at fairfield.edu/artsminds

above: Robert Cardinal McElroy, Archbishop of Washington

For a comprehensive listing of all upcoming events and for more information on each, please visit fairfield.edu/artsminds

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2026 STAMFORD

Arthur C. Brooks

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do OUT & ABOUT STAMFOR D MAG AZIN E A N D STA M F ORD MOM S PA RT N ERSHI P A

ALL THINGS AUTUMN Fall into all kinds of fun this September and October, from APPLE PICKING to pumpkin patches, TRICK-OR-TREATING and more. by stefanie horn

BABY SQUAD Have you recently welcomed, or are preparing to welcome, a new baby? Join the 2nd Annual Stamford Moms New Parent & Baby Expo on Saturday, Sept. 26, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at CoCreate. It’s an opportunity to connect with local parenting resources in one location. Access to a play area for siblings is on site. Visit stamfordmoms.com for ticket information.

No. 4

CANDY CRAWL It’s time to satisfy that sweet tooth at one of the city’s most wellattended fall events. On Sunday Oct. 25, bring the family to Stamford Town Center at 11 a.m. for a day of trick-ortreating. Costumes are recommended. Dress the whole family up for games, character appearances, performances and more.

No. 1

15TH ANNUAL HEALTH, WELLNESS & LIFESTYLE EXPO The kids can jump, balance and play along the Harbor Point boardwalk on Saturday, Sept. 12, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Meanwhile, Moms can take a run at the obstacle course for grown-ups at the annual Health, Wellness & Lifestyle Expo. Activities include a mini ball pit, ring toss games and more. This is Connecticut’s largest health and wellness expo, featuring over 130 sponsors and exhibitors .

No. 2

HARVEST FAMILY MEMORIES Apple picking is something many families look forward to in the fall. There are some great pick- your-own farms just a short drive from Stamford. Residents rank Harvest Moon Farm & Orchard in North Salem, New York, among their favorite locations. (Check out its fall festival on the weekends.) Popular picks in Connecticut include Silverman’s Farm in Easton, Lyman Orchards in Middlefield and March Farm in Bethlehem.

No. 5

THE PERFECT PUMPKIN In search of the perfect pumpkin? There are some great spots to hunt for it in Stamford. Designs by Lee has pumpkins, gourdes, mums and goats. St. John’s Lutheran Church on Newfield Avenue hosts a pumpkin patch every year. Or, take a road trip to Jones Family Farm in Shelton, where the family can explore the mini-corn maze, learn how to cook squash, enjoy hayrides and stroll the pumpkin path through tall cover crops.

Follow Stefanie Horn—a Stamford-based mom of three chrildren—on Instagram (@stamfordmoms) and check out her calendar of local events at stamfordmoms.com.

FITNESS ©WARAPHON STOCK.ADOBE.COM, APPLE PICKING © HEDGEHOG94 STOCK.ADOBE.COM, HALLOWEEN ©EVGENIA TIPLYASHINA STOCK.ADOBE.COM, PUMPKINS ©MANNY DACUNHA STOCK.ADOBE.COM

No. 3

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The Westy Guarantee… WESTY guarantees that a Customer’s rent will not be increased for two years from the Agreement date. WESTY guarantees that there will not be a registration or administration fee. WESTY guarantees your total satisfaction. If you are not totally satisfied for any reason within the first seven days of signing your Agreement, Westy will refund all your money and void your Agreement.

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do Before she became a sleep scientist, Rebecca Robbins was a competitive swimmer at Darien High School, balancing early morning practices, double sessions and year-round competition. She drove to Wilton for training, then merged onto I-95 exhausted before the rest of the world was even awake. “It's a miracle I didn't kill myself in a fall-asleep car crash,” she says. Looking back, she remembers the cumulative toll that sleep deprivation had on her. What she didn't know then was that her body was working against her in ways no coach had ever explained. She would go on to spend her career figuring out why.

BY THE NUMBERS

Teens need 8 to 10 hours of sleep every night to support healthy development

for many teenagers, the body’s natural bedtime doesn’t begin

until 11:00 p.m. or even midnight. more than 80% of u.s. schools

start before 8:30 a.m.

Nearly 70% of teenagers don’t get enough sleep on school nights.

She worked with the Orlando Magic to introduce structured sleep behaviors and schedules for the players. That season, the team went on to win the Eastern Conference Championship. The research is clear: Sleep-deprived athletes are slower to react, struggle to regulate nutrition and body weight and face a greater risk of injury. ”If we're pulling them into the weight room, the pool at four or five in the morning,” Robbins says, “we might be risking their safety.” The mental health stakes are even more sobering. Teenagers needs. In other words, teenagers who get fewer than six hours of are chronically sleep-deprived at sleep a night are more than twice more than twice the rate of the as likely to experience suicidal adults around them. thoughts compared to their wellAnd yet the response is rarely rested peers. Rates of anxiety systemic. School districts resist and depression increase; mood changing start times, citing bus regulation suffers. “This can get schedules, teacher contracts and really serious really fast,” Robbins athletic programming. Robbins says. “It's unfortunately often an acknowledges those logistical afterthought—how a student is hurdles—she's worked with her own sleeping.” former school system in Darien on For parents looking for ways to exactly these interventions—but she improve their teen’s sleep habits, questions the logic. Robbins recommends a few “How can we, in the face of that concrete shifts. Push screen-heavy evidence, not ask homework ourselves how best earlier in the to set up our school afternoon, when systems to support blue light is less TEENAGERS our youth?” she asks. disruptive to ARE MORE Studies tracking the circadian THAN TWICE districts that have system. Model delayed start times the behavior— AS LIKELY by even one hour put your own AS ADULTS have found significant phone down— TO BE benefits for teens. and consider CHRONICALLY Contrary to the creating a windcommon assumption, down ritual as a SLEEPkids don’t simply stay family. DEPRIVED. up later. Their biology Robbins keeps their bedtimes points to Danish relatively stable. The culture, which real problem has has a word always been the wake-up time. for the cozy, intentional time For many Fairfield County families share before bed: hygge. parents and coaches, perhaps Gathering, talking, dimming the the more persuasive angle is lights—cues to the brain and the what sleep can do for athletic body that the day is over. performance. A colleague of The chronotype shift that makes Robbins' conducted research with teenagers night owls, Robbins the Stanford University basketball notes, typically resolves in the team, asking players to prioritize early 20s, when most people sleep by averaging one more hour return to their genetically wired per night. The result? A significant sleep patterns. But it’s during increase in their free-throw the teenage years that we push percentage. Sleep wasn't simply hardest—the grades, the teams, helping them feel more rested. It the applications. We ask the was making them better athletes. most of them precisely when Robbins has also brought her their biology is least equipped to research into professional sports. comply. S

Today, Dr. Robbins is an assistant professor of medicine at Harvard Medical School and a sleep scientist at Brigham and Women's Hospital. What she has to say about teenagers and sleep is something every parent in Fairfield County—and beyond— needs to hear. Not just because our kids are glued to their phones. That's part of it. But the deeper problem is structural, biological and largely invisible to the adults setting their schedules. Once they hit puberty, teenagers need more sleep than they did in middle school—eight to ten hours a night, often well into their early 20s—at precisely the moment our culture starts expecting them to require less. At the same time, most teens experience a fundamental shift in their circadian rhythm, or chronotype—the internal clock that governs when we feel alert and when we feel drowsy. Melatonin, the hormone that signals to the body that it’s time to sleep, secretes later in the teenage brain. The result is that for many teens, 11:00 p.m., or even midnight, is when their bodies are naturally primed to fall asleep. Not because they're being difficult. Because of their hormones. This makes a 7:30 a.m. school bell feel like a biological assault. “We are virtually pulling teenagers into the classroom with their heads still back on their pillows,” Robbins says. Yet more than 80 percent of schools in America start before 8:30 a.m. The consequences show up in the data: 70 percent of teenagers don’t get the sleep they need on school nights. To put that into perspective, only 30 percent of adults fall short of their own sleep

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2026 STAMFORD

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eat

here: Spring onion sformato with smoked bacon and asparagus— comfort and elegance on one plate.

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Settle in with a Sauvignon Blanc from the Loire and a Provençal rosé alongside a spread of herbed olives, ras el hanout–spiced nuts, gigante beans in vinaigrette and gildas. House-baked fougasse—stuffed with artichoke and black olive, finished with poppy seed, pepper and sea salt—steals the scene.

arien’s L’Ostal and La Cave have earned devoted followers among serious food and wine lovers. As the Provencal restaurant celebrates five years—and a Best Restaurant award from the CT Restaurant Association—La Cave, its European wine bar, has become the place to explore and talk about obscure varietals. Since fall, it has also become site of exclusive monthly wine dinners that sell out quickly. On a recent Friday night, both spaces were quietly buzzing. Chef-Owner Jared Sippel—a veteran of kitchens led by world-class chefs in Michelinstarred, Relais et Chateau properties in the United States and Europe—was a constant presence. He emerged from the kitchen in his fresh white jacket to deliver a dish to a VIP at the bar, slice rare beef coulette for the tartar de boeuf at a striking bright-red European hand slicer and step across the outdoor patio to check in on the wine bar.

Five years ago, after a stint in New York City, the aftermath of COVID brought Chef Jared Sippel and his wife to her hometown of Darien. In April 2021, Sippel opened L’Ostal, his dream restaurant, inspired by his culinary journey in France and Italy. He created a focused, ingredient-driven menu rooted in Provencal cuisine, drawing from the broader cultural region that stretches from Provence in France, to Catalonia in Spain and Piedmonte in Italy. “Provençal cooking is almost more Italian than it is French,” says Sippel. “I fell in love with that style. And you get all these influences, from Moroccan and the Basque region of Spain—the markets are full of spices. Provence is France, but before that it was Italy.

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“provençal cooking is almost more italian than it is french. i fell in love with that style. and you get all these influences from moro ccan and the basque region of spain—the markets are full of spices. provence is france, but before that it was italy. there are roman ruins everywhere.” —chef jared sippel

There are Roman ruins everywhere.” Sippel opened L’Ostal at the right time. As people left New York City and returned to the suburbs, demand grew for elevated dining closer to home. “We tapped a niche market,” he says. “People wanted the same high quality of dining they were used to in Manhattan.” At L’Ostal the wine list is focused. Sippel spent decades working with master sommeliers and top wine teams. “Food and wine go hand in hand, and if you work in upper-echelon wine restaurants, you start learning—and the more you learn and understand, the more you get the bug,” he says. At L’Ostal, the wines are primarily French, with select offerings from Italy and Spain. The list features nine classic varieties and regions, including a Sauvignon Blanc from the Loire, a rosé from Provence and a Pinot Noir from Burgundy. Guests can choose half or full glasses. (L’Ostal also serves beer, cocktails and mocktails.) The dinner menu changes seasonally, with nightly specials written on a blackboard. Signature dishes have remained on the menu since day one, complimented by seasonal additions. With wood-topped tables, walls covered

CHEF JARED SIPPEL BY ANDREA CARSON

ABOVE: Chef Jared Sippel’s menu features seasonal fish specials, pâté de campagne with mustard and cornichons and escargot served in the shell with plenty of bread for the garlicky butter. BELOW: Bright, crisp and perfectly balanced—this salade verte dressed in a vinaigrette flavored with pistou (a nutless pesto) is a customer favorite.

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House-made Hudson Valley foie gras torchon with figs and brioche from Flour Water Salt Bread—rich, delicate and just the right balance of sweet and savory.

in white subway tiles and a marble bar, L’Ostal’s understated atmosphere lets the food shine. The scent of smoking herbs drifts through the dining room as servers deliver the evening's special of côte de boeuf (roasted bone-in ribeye). At the bar, guests order Fougasse, the housebaked bread stuffed with artichoke and black olives and flecked with poppy seeds, pepper and sea salt—crunchy and rich outside and soft and steamy inside. Almost everyone orders the salade verte, which has developed a cult following. Each fresh, crisp leaf is dressed in a vinaigrette flavored with pistou (Provençal nutless pesto), and served in a beautifully assembled pile on a chilled plate. Simple, herbflecked and made with care, it exemplifies L’Ostal’s attention to detail. Sformato, an Italian unmolded vegetable flan, is a soft, luxurious comfort food. The chef changes the vegetable base with the seasons. Recently, it featured a cauliflower flan, drizzled with balsamic and encircled by sautéed mushrooms.

The bartender, chef or sommelier can recommend wines, but one dish comes with a suggested pairing written on the menu—and it’s a classic. Housemade torchon of Hudson Valley duck foie gras, slices of fluffy brioche (from Flour Water Salt Bread bakery in Darien) and figs are paired with Tokaji Aszú “5 puttonyos,” a rich, sweet Hungarian white wine fermented with grapes affected with “the noble rot.” It’s a made-in-heaven combination: the meltingly rich, highly seasoned foie gras perfectly balanced by sips of the golden nectar, sweet yet underscored with bright acidity. Three pastas appear on the menu, available in half or full portions (thank you!). The potato gnocchi with jumbo lump crab in scallop emulsion looked like a gift from the sea. The gnocchi resembled bay scallops in their foamy sauce, yet they were the most delicate little potato pillows that dissolved in the mouth. Merlu, also known as hake—a mild-flavored member of the cod family—was tender with a

pleasing texture. It was draped in buerre blanc and showered with sautéed chanterelles. Sweet delicata squash peeked out from beneath the fish, which rested on rich, buttery potatoes. What makes L’Ostal special—beyond the excellent food, wine and service—is the sense of care in every detail: the attentive staff, their professionalism and knowledge and the many gracious touches. Upon leaving, we found our take-home bag resting on a small table by the hostess desk, my name written in black marker—a thoughtful way to ensure guests don’t forget their delicious leftovers! L’Ostal is pricy, as one would expect given the quality of the ingredients, cooking and service. L’Apero Hour, Tuesday through Friday, from 5 to 6 p.m., offers reduced prices on drinks and a limited menu featuring Les Plat de Resistance— two burgers, The Frenchie and L’Americain. The restaurant also offers menus for parties of six or more, including three- to four-course family style dinners and a chef-curated menu. S

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money matters

SAVING FOR COLLEGE

Jaime Hunter

ith college costs averaging nearly $61,000 a year at private institutions and $46,000 at public schools, paying for higher education is a tall order. Short of hemorrhaging retirement accounts or saddling Muffy with six-figure debt on graduation day, what’s a parent to do? Start saving now, says Jamie Hunter, a vice president at Fairfield County Bank and financial adviser with Osaic Institutions Inc. in Westport. “In our area, we want our kids to have a better chance than we did, and we believe college is the way to get there,” says

CHET account, and there is no contribution minimum. If you open one before Baby’s first birthday, Connecticut will contribute $100 to the cause. Anybody can open a CHET account, whether a parent, friend or grandparent, and this is where things can get interesting, says Hunter. Account-holders may contribute up to $19,000 a year (or $38,000 for married couples filing jointly) to a 529 without incurring a gift tax, but there is no maximum contribution. Grandparents with a robust nest egg, for example, can superfund Muffy’s 529, combining five years’ worth of contributions in one year ($95,000 for a single contributor or $190,000 for a couple) without incurring a gift tax. “You can continue to contribute until the account reaches $550,000,” Hunter says, adding, “it’s a legacy plan that’s always in the grantor’s name.” If the original beneficiary of a 529 doesn’t need the money for school, accountholders can name a new beneficiary. While a 529 is the most popular savings vehicle for college, Hunter recommends adding a second, less-utilized but very handy tool

Hunter, who has put his own kids through college and can relate to the challenge. He has watched parents in lower Fairfield County sink every free penny into their homes and retirement accounts, only to come up short at tuition time. Then they raid those very accounts to pay the tuition bill, adding insult to injury. “Your life’s not over after you get the kids through school,” Hunter says. Saving for college can be a family affair, Hunter suggests, with everyone having skin in the game, from grandparents to the little scholars themselves. Start with a 529 plan. Designed as a tool to pay for school, a 529 lets you invest money in a brokerage account, where it grows tax-free so long as you use the funds to pay for qualified education expenses. Fidelity administers our state’s plan, the Connecticut Higher Education Trust, and contributions are tax-deductible, up to $10,000 per year for jointfilers. Superfunding — or making five years’ worth of contributions at one time — can net joint-filers up to a $50,000 tax deduction in Connecticut. It costs nothing to set up a

to the mix: a cash value, wholelife insurance policy. Sure, the primary goal is to pay a benefit upon death, but the policy also accumulates a cash value that can be used for college costs, if necessary. You can even borrow against the cash value — loaning yourself the money if you need it. Another benefit: whole-life insurance is not counted as an asset in federal financial aid considerations. A Roth IRA account — for Muffy — is a third item in Hunter’s toolbox. Parents, grandparents and kids themselves can contribute 100 percent of the child’s earned income into a custodial Roth IRA, up to $7,500 each year, and have that grow taxfree. Money earned babysitting, cutting lawns, stocking shelves at the store, work in the family business — it all counts as income. Contributions cannot exceed the child’s total earned income, so kids log earnings, as it needs to be verifiable. Come college time, if Muffy doesn’t need that money, it can keep accumulating, tax-free. Muffy will thank you later, when it’s time to pay for her kids’ college. S

COMPARE STICKER PRICES One way to shrink college costs is to find a lower price tag to begin with. Connecticut community colleges cost about $5,200 per year, versus about $17,000 for only tuition at UConn. (Tack on another $20,000 or so for room, board and fees.) Going the community college route saves literally tens of thousands of dollars, all while and the fancy diploma. An added bonus: Connecticut awards community college attendees tuition-free grants to cover a shortfall between federal and state grants received and actual tuition costs. Awards are first-come, firstserved, and are not income-restricted. Apply online at CTState.edu/free-tuition.

PHOTO CONTRIBUTED

getting those required courses out of the way. Then Muffy can transfer to another school for upper-level classes

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THE NEXT CHAPTER

Olivia Ajayi

Ayaan Sadiq

Meet 10 remarkable students whose ideas, leadership and curiosity are shaping bright futures. There comes a point where high school starts to feel too small. This year’s Teens to Watch are already conducting research in university labs, translating for patients in hospitals, competing on international stages, launching nonprofits, mentoring younger students and tackling problems far beyond the classroom. These Stamford residents are writers, athletes, artists, scientists, entrepreneurs and advocates, but more than anything, they’re curious. The 10 students featured here are already making an impact in their communities, and if their stories are any indication, they’re just getting started.

Alek Modi

Paula Zanol

by joey quinzani • photography by katharine calderwood

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Angela Chavez

Feipe Quintero Ochoa

Viktoria Kostyuk

Hannah Bahar

Nate Samelson Juan Manuel Garcia Ortiz

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aite

ANGELA CHAVEZ As a kid, Angela Chavez was always building something, from elaborate homes in Minecraft to tiny shelters for ant colonies. Years later, a move to Peru gave those childhood projects a deeper meaning after she saw families living without safe housing. That early curiosity has grown into a dream of studying architecture and designing homes for people in need.

QUICK TAKE What’s your go-to song, artist or playlist before a volleyball game or big event? One song I always listen to before a big game or event is “Hot Wings (I Wanna Party)” by Jamie Foxx. It gets my energy up, puts me in a confident mindset, and helps me get excited before a competition.

YOU BALANCE ATHLETICS, STEM CLUBS, LEADERSHIP ROLES, TUTORING AND VOLUNTEERING. HOW DO YOU STAY MOTIVATED? I stay motivated because everything I do connects back to the future I want for myself. Whether it’s volleyball or STEM, I like challenging myself and seeing growth over time. What keeps me grounded is remembering my background and everything my parents sacrificed for me. They immigrated and worked really hard to finance every opportunity my siblings and I have had. Seeing how hard they work motivates me to take advantage of every opportunity and make them proud. I also remind myself that success isn’t only about achievements. It’s about helping others and staying true to who I am. WHERE DID YOUR PASSION FOR DESIGNING HOMES FOR PEOPLE IN NEED COME FROM? While in Peru, I saw many people living without safe or stable homes. I developed the desire to support those in need by creating more secure places for them to live together with their families. From an early age, I have always designed things. As an example, I have built detailed homes in Minecraft, as well as constructed homes for ants and built entire ant colonies. Looking back, I think

to have a good mindset. At the same time, I learned that I could be a leader by encouraging and supporting my teammates even during my worst moments. It made me a stronger person mentally and helped me appreciate the opportunities that I currently have.

architecture was always a process by which I created new ideas and developed all sorts of solutions to various problem situations.

able to make quick decisions as a setter about what type of play will work best at at any given moment. YOU’VE OVERCOME INJURIES. WHAT DID THE EXPERIENCE TEACH YOU? When I broke both ankles, it taught me how to be patient and resilient. Without question, I learned that setbacks only define you if you allow them, and even when I could not play the way I wanted, I learned that it is extremely important

DO YOU SEE YOURSELF AS AN ANALYTICAL THINKER, A CREATIVE THINKER, OR BOTH? I believe that I am a combination of the two things. Architecture uses both creativity as well as strategy and problem-solving. This applies to volleyball too, in that I love being

AS SOMEONE INVOLVED IN GIRLS IN STEM, WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE YOUNGER STUDENTS WHO FEEL INTIMIDATED ENTERING STEM FIELDS? I’d tell people not to doubt themselves. A lot of people grow up thinking STEM is only for certain types of students, but everyone brings different experiences and perspectives that matter. Being part of Girls in STEM showed me how important a supportive community is because everyone motivates and helps each other grow. I think people should take chances on things they want to explore, ask questions, try new things and not be afraid of making mistakes.

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AYAAN SADIQ aite

Three trips to the FBLA National Leadership Conference. A demanding year-round tennis schedule. One of AITE’s most rigorous course loads. Somehow, Ayaan Sadiq has found a way to fit it all together without losing sight of what matters most. Friends know him as someone who will always lend a hand, whether that’s helping them prepare for an exam or simply showing up when he’s needed. It’s the same mindset that has inspired his dream of becoming a doctor, where he hopes to make a difference, one person at a time. YOU BALANCE A DEMANDING TENNIS SCHEDULE WITH FBLA, MODEL UN AND A RIGOROUS ACADEMIC LOAD. WHAT DOES DISCIPLINE LOOK LIKE FOR YOU ON A DAY-TO-DAY BASIS? Discipline looks like managing my time effectively in order to maintain proficiency in all aspects of my life. I do my best to manage my time so that I do not fall behind in my academics, my extracurriculars, or in my social life. I believe that maintaining a healthy balance between everything is a clear sign of proper discipline. YOU’VE CONSISTENTLY COMPETED AT A HIGH LEVEL IN FBLA AND REACHED NATIONALS MULTIPLE TIMES. WHAT HAS COMPETING TAUGHT YOU BEYOND BUSINESS OR ACADEMICS? Competing in FBLA has taught me how to work well with others. Working with my partners throughout these last three years has taught me important skills in communication, planning and patience. I’ve also learned how to better coordinate within groups. YOUR GOAL IS TO PURSUE MEDICINE AND FOLLOW IN YOUR PARENTS’ FOOTSTEPS. WHAT DREW YOU TO THAT PATH, BEYOND FAMILY

INFLUENCE? Even though both of my parents are doctors, what really drew me to medicine was the idea that I could help people in a real and direct way. I’ve always liked being the person people can come to for support, whether it’s helping a classmate or just being there for someone. Medicine feels like the path where I can turn that into something bigger and actively help people as much as I can. YOU’VE MENTIONED THE IMPORTANCE OF HELPING OTHERS IN SIMPLE, DIRECT WAYS. HOW HAS WORKING IN YOUR MOM’S PEDIATRIC OFFICE SHAPED HOW YOU THINK ABOUT CARE AND RESPONSIBILITY? Working in mom’s pediatric office showed me that care is not always about doing something huge. Sometimes it is ensuring the supplies are ready, or helping the staff, or doing small things that make the day easier for everyone. It taught me that responsibility means being dependable and helpful. WITH SUCH A PACKED SCHEDULE, HOW DO YOU DEFINE SUCCESS FOR YOURSELF RIGHT NOW? Right now, I define success as doing my best while continuing to stay balanced and being the kind of person others can count on. Grades, tennis and clubs matter to me, but I also care about staying humble, learning from feedback, being with my friends, having fun and keeping a healthy life outside of school. To me, success is not just achieving things, but growing into someone who can help others and handle challenges the right way while still being the best version of myself.

QUICK TAKE What’s your favorite way to reset after a long week of school and activities? I like to hang out with my friends, listen to music, go to the gym, or take long car rides at night.

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QUICK TAKE

If you could instantly master one completely unrelated skill, what would it be? Graphic and video design. I think design is one of the best ways to communicate ideas and being able to present information well is an invaluable skill.

Felipe Quintero Ochoa remembers falling down the rabbit hole when he asked one simple question: How does ChatGPT actually work? The answer wasn’t easy to find. Most of the resources he came across were written for college students, leaving him to piece a lot together on his own. Rather than accept that barrier, he decided to change it. Today, he’s the co-founder of the AI Youth Global Organization, which reaches students in 13 countries with free machine learning resources, while also leading his school’s AI Club and helping develop AI solutions to reduce food waste. This fall, he’ll research how to make artificial intelligence more accessible for the next generation. WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO MAKE AI EDUCATION ACCESSIBLE TO HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS WORLDWIDE? When I first started learning about machine learning, I had never even heard of a neural network. I was severely underprepared and spent a month trying to understand a model far above my knowledge level. Eventually, I found beginnerfriendly resources that helped me build my understanding, but most machine learning resources were designed for college students, not high schoolers. Seeing that gap inspired me to create educational resources of my own to make machine learning more approachable. My grandparents have always stressed that education is one of the most valuable things in life, so creating these resources became a natural way to give back.

genuinely interest me. When I discover a new topic, I often create an educational resource for it because teaching something is one of the best ways to deepen my own understanding. For realworld applications, I’m especially interested in using machine learning to preserve dying languages and solve optimization problems, like reducing food waste.

TODAY, YOU’RE TEACHING COMPLEX CONCEPTS LIKE TRANSFORMER MODELS. HOW DO YOU MAKE IT ENGAGING FOR YOUR PEERS? I was once a beginner and had to learn almost everything I know about machine learning on my own. When I teach, I try to address the same gaps in understanding that I experienced. Some students don’t yet have the mathematical background for machine learning,

so I build from the foundations they do have and introduce concepts step by step. YOUR WORK, INCLUDING THE FOOD WASTE PROJECT, SITS AT THE INTERSECTION OF EDUCATION, RESEARCH AND REAL-WORLD APPLICATIONS. HOW DO YOU DECIDE WHICH PROBLEMS ARE WORTH FOCUSING ON? I tend to focus my research on areas of machine learning that

AS SOMEONE DEEPLY INVOLVED IN MATHEMATICAL MODELING COMPETITIONS, WHAT EXCITES YOU MOST ABOUT THE WAY MATH HAS REAL-WORLD IMPACT? What excites me most is how math can be used to optimize realworld and computational systems. Whether it’s building mathematical models to solve complex problems or powering machine learning systems, mathematics makes many of the technologies we use every day possible. That connection continues to fascinate me.

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QUICK TAKE If your friends had to sum you up as a soccer player or teammate, what would they say? “He’s competitive, but he will never sacrifice the chance to have fun!”

QUICK TAKE If you could step into any play or movie role for a day, what would it be? I’d step into Short Term 12. More than anything, I wanted to be one of the young adults caring for the kids in the film. Watching how much of a difference they made simply by showing up reminded me of the kind of impact I hope to have on others.

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ALEK MODI

greenwich academy

PAULA ZANOL

brunswick scho ol Alek Modi didn’t set out to become a leader. He signed up to volunteer at a World Refugee Day celebration, laced up his cleats, and joined a soccer game with kids who had recently arrived from countries around the world. That afternoon changed the course of his high school experience. What began on the soccer field grew into years of service with JFS Greenwich, where Alek helped build a student club, rally classmates and create meaningful connections with refugee families. Through it all, he’s remained the same person who believes that simply showing up can make all the difference. This fall, he’ll bring that same sense of purpose to the University of Chicago as a first-year student.

YOU TO MOVE FROM PARTICIPATING TO LEADING? I was initially introduced to JFS by Dr. Courtney Spada, who works at Brunswick and has been a huge help. She does just as much work, if not more, for JFS as I do. After seeing how much I enjoyed volunteering that day and how much the kids enjoyed it, Dr. Spada asked if I would be interested in starting a JFS club at school, to which I responded with a hesitant yes. Prior to this, I never considered myself a leader, as I felt that I never had the personality for it. By starting this club, I realized that I would be working more closely with an organization that I love, and indirectly building my leadership skills, which I have come to value.

HOW DID THAT FIRST EXPERIENCE WITH JFS SHAPE THE WAY YOU THINK ABOUT COMMUNITY? My involvement with JFS began the summer I was going into my junior year, and yes most of the work I did was playing soccer. I’ve been playing for most of my life, and the sport has shaped who I am today. It has taught me patience, resilience and teamwork. Volunteering with JFS taught me the importance of being part of a close community. I saw the mpact that my presence had on these families. Small things like serving food or handing out school supplies have an imact on everyone in a community, and that’s why I love working with JFS.

HOW DO YOU DEFINE MEANINGFUL LEADERSHIP? I definitely agree with that description of me. I would say that I try to lead by example. I have never been the loudest or most outspoken person, so trying to lead like that has never worked for me. Personally, I think that before anyone can lead effectively, trust must be built. For me, just showing up on a regular basis and having meaningful conversations through a common love of soccer was the perfect way to build that trust.

YOU’VE SINCE HELPED BUILD PROGRAMMING, EVENTS, AND A STUDENT-LED JFS CLUB. WHAT MOTIVATED

Before an audience ever applauds or an essay reaches a teacher’s desk, Paula Zanol is already asking herself the same question: How do I make someone feel something? It’s the thread that connects her work in Greenwich Academy’s theater productions to the writing voice that has earned praise from her teachers and the Friday afternoons she spends tutoring math at her alma mater, Waterside School. Whether she’s performing, writing or mentoring, Paula believes stories have the power to build empathy, spark conversation and help people feel understood. YOU’RE KNOWN FOR EXCELLING ACADEMICALLY AND ON STAGE. HOW DO THOSE TWO WORLDS INFLUENCE EACH OTHER? For me, acting and academics complement each other more than people might expect. Theater has taught me confidence, communication, and adaptability. I bring these things with me to the classroom during discussions, presentations, and speeches. On the other hand, my classroom experience has taught me discipline, perseverance, and how to analyze complex situations. I use those skills to understand characters on stage. TEACHERS DESCRIBE YOUR WRITING VOICE AS EXCEPTIONALLY STRONG AND INTENTIONAL. HOW DID YOU DEVELOP THAT VOICE IN WRITING AND PERFORMANCE? I think a lot of my voice comes from my life experiences. I’ve lived with my mom my whole life, and from a young age I’ve helped with

YOU’VE WORKED WITH REFUGEE FAMILIES FROM AROUND THE WORLD. WHAT HAS STAYED WITH YOU FROM THOSE RELATIONSHIPS? Be grateful for what you have. These kids have had more challenges than the rest of us, yet they are happier than most kids I know.

things like paying Eversource bills, editing emails and resumes, and taking on responsibilities that many people don’t encounter until later in life. Those experiences taught me independence, resilience and confidence, and I think those qualities naturally show up in both my writing and acting. My teachers at GA have also played a huge role. They’ve encouraged me to think for myself and trust my own perspective, and that confidence has shaped both the way I write and perform. YOU’VE TAKEN ON A WIDE RANGE OF ROLES FROM TRAGEDY TO COMEDY. WHAT TYPES OF CHARACTERS CHALLENGE YOU MOST? Ironically, the characters who are most like me are the hardest to play. They force me to rediscover myself and have the confidence to share that with an audience. Characters who are completely different from me require something else: empathy. They challenge me to understand someone else’s story and perspective. HOW HAS YOUR JOURNEY FROM WATERSIDE TO GA SHAPED YOU? Waterside is so different from any elementary school in Stamford, and I would even say it helped raise me. I learned to appreciate my background, not just ethnically, but culturally and socioeconomically, as part of a single-parent household. Most importantly, I have learned what it means to truly love learning. Even now, I still quietly recite Waterside’s pledge to myself: “Work hard, be kind, and respect learning.” I’ve carried that mindset with me to Greenwich Academy.

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QUICK TAKE What’s a daily ritual or habit you look forward to? Every night I pick the song I want to wake up to, and it has to be something uplifting. I love dancing before I even hit the stop button on my alarm because it gets me excited for the day. Some of my favorites are “Billie Jean” and “Dancing Queen.”

Hannah Bahar isn’t good at sitting on the sidelines. If a team needs a leader, she steps up. If a school tradition doesn’t exist, she’ll help create it. If someone could use a little encouragement, she’ll find a way to make it happen. Over the past few years, that instinct has led her to captain two varsity teams, co-found Paper Hugs—a service organization dedicated to spreading kindness through handwritten cards and care packages—organize her school’s first prom, and participate in the United States Military Academy’s Summer Leaders Experience. With plans to study economics and pursue a career in public service, Hannah proves that the best leaders are the ones willing to build something from the ground up. YOU LEAD MULTIPLE VARSITY TEAMS, CLUBS, AND SERVICE INITIATIVES. WHAT DOES LEADERSHIP MEAN TO YOU? It’s about understanding your role in each environment. Sometimes that means stepping up, and other times it means giving someone else the opportunity to lead. Leadership isn’t one fixed position. It changes depending on the group and the goal. In volleyball, I stepped into the setter position after our previous setter graduated. That role taught me how to communicate, direct the offense, and make sure everyone understood their role. After going winless my freshman year, we finished undefeated the next season and later placed third at a tournament in Atlanta after raising more than $3,000 to attend. That experience led me to Chelsea Piers’ national team and Team USA for the Maccabiah Games. Outside of sports, I co-founded Paper Hugs with my best friend, Liora, where we create cards and care packages for people in need. Whether

it’s leading a club or serving as student council president, I’ve learned that leadership is about helping people succeed. YOU FOUNDED PAPER HUGS AROUND THE IDEA THAT SMALL ACTS OF KINDNESS CREATE CONNECTION. WHAT HAS SURPRISED YOU ABOUT ITS IMPACT? I’ve saved almost every handwritten note I’ve ever received because there’s something so special about reading words written just for you. I wanted other people to experience that same feeling. When Liora and I started Paper Hugs, it was simply a way for students to do something kind. As we took on bigger projects, like creating gift baskets for Inspirica, our impact grew. When the shelter called to tell us how touched the women were, I realized small acts of kindness really can have a lasting impact. WHAT FIRST SPARKED YOUR INTEREST IN ECONOMICS, POLICY AND HOW SYSTEMS SHAPE GLOBAL ISSUES? My dad has always taught me that being well-read is one of the most important qualities a person can have. As my interest in history grew, so did my desire to understand how the world works. When I had the opportunity to take AP Microeconomics, my dad encouraged me to take the class. Since then, my interest in economics, investing, and global issues has only continued to grow. WHAT DID YOU LEARN AT THE SUMMER LEADERS EXPERIENCE AT WEST POINT? I crave discipline. I enjoyed learning how my body and mind respond under structure and pressure. It challenged me physically and pushed me outside my comfort zone.

bi cultural hebrew academy

HANNAH BAHAR greenwichmag.com

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Boundless Potential Starts Here

At GCDS, we empower individuals to take pride in their unique abilities, pursue a purpose-driven life, and unlock possibilities that create impact.

It’s how we think. Purpose. Pride. Possibility. 60_83_STM_Teens_Sept_Oct 2026.indd 71

OPEN HOUSE

Grades N-8 November 1

Grades 9-12 October 25

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QUICK TAKE If you could instantly become fluent in any language, which would you choose and why? I would choose Quechua or Haitian Creole. Quechua would allow me to learn more about Indigenous communities and their histories, while Haitian Creole would help me connect more deeply with Stamford’s Haitian community, where I’ve often encountered language barriers.

stamford high

JUAN MANUEL GARCIA ORTIZ Years ago, when Juan Manuel Garcia Ortiz and his family arrived from Colombia, local organizations helped them navigate a new language, a new school system and a new life. Now, he’s helping do the same for others. At Stamford Hsigh, Juan launched a multilingual branch of the school’s tutoring program, creating a space where students can receive academic support in their native language. Through leadership roles in DECA, the Mayor’s Youth Leadership Council, and community advocacy, he’s worked to make opportunity more accessible. This fall, he’ll bring that passion for history, writing and public service to Yale University. YOU’VE LEAD THE CREATION OF A MULTILINGUAL TUTORING INITIATIVE AT STAMFORD HIGH. WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO FOCUS ON LANGUAGE ACCESS? When I joined my school’s tutoring program, it was very new, so I knew there were many ways it could expand. Creating a multilingual branch was one of my first ideas because Stamford

High has a significant international community. Students speak Spanish, Haitian Creole, Ukrainian, and other languages, and around 20 percent of students are multilingual learners. Having a part of the program dedicated to honoring those languages while providing academic support was essential to ensuring our school community’s success. HOW HAS YOUR IDEA OF LEADERSHIP EVOLVED? My involvement in DECA and U-Knighted Nations Tutoring has taught me to view leadership through a more collaborative lens. Being president comes with greater responsibility, but something that’s just as important is coordination. Creating a cohesive, motivating, and welcoming environment allows everyone to contribute their strengths.

Building One Community have strengthened that conviction. Originally, my family and I were the beneficiaries of many of the organization’s programs, which helped us overcome language barriers and adjust to a new home. Now, whenever I return to Building One Community to volunteer, especially teaching English where my mom was once taught, I’m reminded of the many doors they helped open for us. I recognize a powerful cycle where a community’s desire to help others is passed from person to person,

YOU’VE DESCRIBED YOUR MOTIVATION AS HELPING OPEN DOORS FOR OTHERS. WHAT MOMENTS HAVE REINFORCED THAT PURPOSE? The moments I’ve shared with

to build a stronger society. AS A MEMBER OF THE MAYOR’S YOUTH LEADERSHIP COUNCIL, HOW DO YOU THINK STUDENT VOICES CAN CREATE CHANGE? Through strong convictions and unwavering persistence. Many people recognize problems in their communities but are too afraid to speak up. We expect change to come effortlessly, but it rarely does. My advice to young leaders is to be confident in yourselves and less afraid of uncomfortable conversations.

stamfordmag.com

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Patrick in Fifth Grade

Patrick Gunn and Nate Samelson began their SLS journeys together in fifth grade.

Nate in Fifth Grade

Ever since ninth-grade biology, I’ve wanted to know the ‘why’ behind things. At SLS, that curiosity grew far beyond science class—into the humanities, a cancer research project, and countless insightful discussions with friends and teachers. It’s a mindset I’ll carry with me through college and my career.”

One of the things I appreciated most about my time at SLS was the freedom to explore so many different things, from Shakespeare and conversational Mandarin to advanced abstract math. SLS always pushed me to challenge myself, ask good questions, and think critically. We were lucky to learn in an atmosphere that encouraged curiosity and creativity.”

—Patrick Gunn ’26, Valedictorian, STEM Scholar, Darien Teen to Watch, attending Vanderbilt University

—Nate Samelson ’26, Salutatorian, STEM Scholar, Stamford Teen to Watch, attending the Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Join Our Open House Sunday, October 18, 12–3 p.m.

Learn more:

SLS is a secular (non-religious) day school for grades 5-12, serving over 40 towns in Connecticut and New York.

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Olivia Ajayi has always been fascinated by how things work. These days, that curiosity has taken her from King School’s Robotics Club to New York University’s Rizzo Biomedical Engineering Lab, where she’s helping with research assistive technology for people with visual impairments. Whether she’s designing, coding, competing on the soccer field, or debating global issues through Model UN, Olivia is drawn to problems that don’t have easy answers. She hopes to build medical technologies that make healthcare more accessible. She believes the best engineering doesn’t just solve problems; it improves people’s lives.

FROM ROBOTICS TO BIOMEDICAL RESEARCH, YOU’RE CONSTANTLY WORKING WITH SYSTEMS THAT SOLVE REAL-WORLD PROBLEMS. HOW DO YOU APPROACH TURNING AN IDEA INTO SOMETHING FUNCTIONAL AND USABLE? I start with an outline. I write or draw up my initial plan, build the workflow, and organize all of my ideas into something manageable. Once that’s done, I follow my outline while making tweaks and troubleshooting along the way. After creating an initial product, testing it, and getting feedback, I keep working until I have a functional solution.

YOUR WORK IN NYU’S RIZZO BIOMEDICAL ENGINEERING LAB FOCUSES ON ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGY FOR VISUALLY IMPAIRED INDIVIDUALS. WHAT DREW YOU TO THAT INTERSECTION OF ENGINEERING AND ACCESSIBILITY? I’ve known I wanted to be an engineer for a long time, and as I grew more mature and inquisitive, I became more aware of how integral technological design is to creating solutions across many disciplines. I take a particular interest in engineering’s potential to expand access to effective healthcare and improve quality of life. When researching opportunities, I came across NYU’s Rizzo Lab. As I learned about the unique challenges visually impaired individuals face and the amazing assistive technology in development, it seemed like the perfect opportunity to begin learning and, more importantly, contributing.

AS A LEADER IN KING’S ROBOTICS CLUB, HOW DO YOU BALANCE TECHNICAL PROBLEM-SOLVING WITH COLLABORATION AND CREATIVITY IN A TEAM? I believe the Robotics Club should be centered around enthusiasm for collaboration and mutual respect. Everyone brings valuable ideas and skills to the team. I try to set an example by creating an environment where people feel comfortable sharing their ideas.

QUICK TAKE If you could instantly learn any creative skill, what would you pick? I’d love to learn how to play an instrument, maybe guitar. I love music. I use it to decompress, set my mood, gain perspective, and connect with others. Having the ability to create my own would be awesome.

king scho ol

OLIVIA AJAYI stamfordmag.com

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No Ceiling On Learning Every child learns differently. At Whitby, we unlock their full potential through confidence, curiosity, and a global mindset. Join us at an upcoming admissions event: Early Childhood Exploration: Wednesday, October 7th at 9:30am All-School Open House: Sunday, October 25th at 10am Register online at whitbyschool.org Montessori Children’s House: 18 Months - Kindergarten International Baccalaureate Grades 1 - 8 Greenwich, CT

Inspiring

Excellence

Feeding curiosity. Nurturing wisdom and intellect. Practicing responsibility and compassion. We empower students to grow into women who lead lives of purpose, faith, leadership, and service.

Find your future with us. SHGREENWICH.ORG

FALL OPEN HOUSES All school (Kindergarten–Grade 12)—October 24 at 9:00 a.m. Barat Center (3–5-year-old boys & girls)—November 6 at 9:30 a.m.

ADMISSION TOUR DAYS October 8, November 12, December 3, and January 7—Drop by campus anytime between 9:00 a.m. and 11:00 a.m.

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st. luke’s scho ol

NATE SAMELSON

Long before the first bell rings, Nate Samelson is usually on a tennis court. Years of early morning training helped him become a nationally ranked player, lead St. Luke’s School to its first NEPSAC Championship at No. 2 singles, move into the No. 1 spot the following season, and earn a place on the U.S. delegation for the Maccabiah Games. Off the court, he’s conducted quantum gravity research at the University of Cambridge, worked in data science at the University of Connecticut, and committed to MIT with an NROTC scholarship. After beginning Navy training this summer, he heads to MIT for his next chapter. Whether mentoring young athletes or volunteering with The Friendship Circle in Stamford, Nate approaches every challenge with the same discipline, curiosity, and commitment to serving others. YOU BALANCE ELITELEVEL TENNIS, INCLUDING NATIONAL RANKING AND INTERNATIONAL COMPETITION, WITH HIGHLEVEL ACADEMIC RESEARCH IN PHYSICS AND DATA SCIENCE. HOW DO YOU MANAGE INTENSITY ACROSS THESE DISCIPLINES? It is all about balance and time management. If you are really passionate about something, you find the time to commit to it, even if it is difficult. Traveling for junior tournaments meant I had to miss certain things, but for me it was always about setting priorities. Throughout high school, I played tennis before school, which gave me extra time in the afternoons

to focus on academics. Years of balancing these interests have shaped my ability to manage my time effectively. AS A CO-CAPTAIN AND #1 SINGLES PLAYER WHO HELPED LEAD YOUR TEAM TO ITS FIRST NEPSAC CHAMPIONSHIP, WHAT DOES LEADERSHIP LOOK LIKE TO YOU ON AND OFF THE COURT? To me, leadership is about setting an example for those around you. Whether it’s giving your all at practice, bringing energy to matches, or offering advice off the court, being the change you want to see in others goes a long way. No matter what I do, I try to put my best foot forward and, in turn, uplift everyone around me. YOUR RESEARCH SPANS QUANTUM GRAVITY AT CAMBRIDGE AND DATA SCIENCE AT UCONN. WHAT DRAWS YOU TO THESE AREAS OF STEM? Although they seem different, I’ve found that everything connects. There would be no way to analyze experiments conducted in particle accelerators without the help of data science. By recognizing these connections, we discover new areas of knowledge to explore. My true passion isn’t physics or data science, but the questions each field presents and the opportunity to explore the unknown.

AND COMMUNITY? I’ve always had a really special relationship with my sister. She is both my biggest inspiration and my biggest supporter. Watching her overcome challenges has helped me push through some of my own difficult moments. While I get my discipline from my parents,

YOU’VE BEEN INVOLVED IN FRIENDSHIP CIRCLE FOR YEARS, INSPIRED BY YOUR TWIN. HOW HAS THAT RELATIONSHIP SHAPED THE WAY YOU THINK ABOUT INCLUSION

my ability to connect with others comes from my sister. Growing up, she would strike up conversations with anyone, and over time that confidence rubbed off on me. Experiences like that have shown me why inclusive communities matter and why I love being part of Friendship Circle.

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The Power of Wonder At King School, students ask big questions, explore ideas, and take ownership of their learning. That’s how engagement grows. That’s how students fall in love with learning. And those skills go far beyond the classroom. They shape how children solve problems, adapt to change, and take on any challenge with confidence and purpose. LEARN HOW YOUR CHILD CAN THRIVE AT KING.

Join us for Open House Sunday, October 4 kingschoolct.org/open-house

King School is a PreK-12 independent, co-ed day school located in northern Stamford that educates students of Fairfield and Westchester counties.

WONDER IN ACTION: Geometry came to life as Grade 4 students designed and built mini-golf courses inspired by their own creativity and imagination.

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Most people walk into a hospital hoping to leave as quickly as possible. Viktoria Kostyuk walks in hoping to learn something new. Whether she’s translating for patients in Stamford Hospital’s Trauma Center, assisting in the PACU, observing robotic surgeries or riding along during EMT training, she’s constantly looking for opportunities to understand medicine from every angle. That same curiosity inspired her to

My journey into medicine didn’t begin with a single event, but with a persistent question: “Why?” While most children saw needles and sterile halls as scary, I saw them as something new to discover. There have been several small moments that confirmed my passion. During my clinical rotations, I had the opportunity to work with the da Vinci Surgical System. Everything came naturally, and my excitement grew every time I entered the operating room. However, my passion became abundantly clear when I treated my first patient during EMT training. Despite my nerves, I was able to focus, work with the paramedic and help stabilize the patient. Knowing our actions helped save a life is one of the best feelings I have experienced.

create Stamford High’s Pre-Health Club, connecting classmates with physicians, researchers, and other healthcare professionals while encouraging them to explore careers in medicine. YOU HAVE EXPERIENCE IN MULTIPLE MEDICAL SETTINGS. WHAT MOMENTS HAVE CONFIRMED YOUR DESIRE TO PURSUE MEDICINE?

YOUR WORK IN THE PACU AND TRAUMA CENTER INVOLVES DIRECT PATIENT INTERACTION, INCLUDING TRANSLATION AND EMOTIONAL SUPPORT. HOW HAS THAT SHAPED YOUR UNDERSTANDING OF CARE? People come to the hospital not only for their own medical needs, but also to see friends and loved ones. I’ve learned that healthcare starts the moment you enter the hospital and continues through every interaction. The smallest actions, such as translating for doctors, nurses, and patients, can positively transform someone’s experience. People are at their most vulnerable in the hospital, which is why I believe patient care extends beyond direct medical treatment. Meeting both the physical and emotional needs of a patient helps them feel safe. AS FOUNDER OF THE PRE-HEALTH CLUB, YOU’VE CONNECTED STUDENTS WITH PROFESSIONALS ACROSS HEALTHCARE FIELDS. WHAT IMPACT HAS THAT HAD ON YOUR PERSPECTIVE? I’ve realized that most people in healthcare love sharing their

stamford high

experiences and knowledge. Cold emailing researchers and doctors can feel intimidating, and oftentimes I haven’t gotten a reply, but taking that leap of faith has enabled me to meet amazing medical professionals who have become my mentors. The possibilities in medicine extend far beyond doctors and nurses. Students who have connected with healthcare professionals have discovered careers they hadn’t previously considered. YOU’VE LED MAJOR SERVICE EFFORTS. WHAT DRIVES YOU TO TURN IDEAS INTO ACTION? I’m driven by the belief that a good idea, once scaled, stops being a concept and becomes a tool that can improve lives. I noticed student athletes were leaving home at 7 a.m. and not returning until 10 p.m. on game days. Knowing that over 50 percent of Stamford students qualify for free or reduced lunch, I organized a donation drive at a local grocery store. My club collected over 1,000 items, then packed customized snack bags based on travel distance, game length and team size. I saw a gap in access, and I refused to wait for someone else to close it. S

QUICK TAKE What’s your favorite way to decompress? I love finding a cozy spot in my room, making myself tea, and turning on a movie or show. I love classic comedies and crime shows like Modern Family, 2 Broke Girls, White Collar, and The Mentalist. When I have more free time, I like doing macramé. Large projects help me unwind.

VIKTORIA KOSTYUK stamfordmag.com

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BE BOLD. APPLY EARLY.

The Frederick Gunn School cultivates independent critical thinkers who are ambitious, courageous, and always learning.

KEY DATES FOR 2027-28 ENROLLMENT EARLY DECISION

REGULAR DECISION

Application deadline

December 1, 2026: December 15, 2026:

Decision notification

January 15, 2027: March 10, 2027:

Decision notification

The Frederick Gunn School is a coed boarding and day school for 330 students in grades 9-12 and postgraduate located in Washington, CT | GoGunn.org

2026 Moffly Education Guide_ half-page horizontal.indd 1

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THE WORLD THEY WANT TO BUILD

Each of these students is already thinking beyond themselves. Here, in their own words, is the future they’re working toward.

EDUCATION “Creating educational resources on machine learning was a natural and fulfilling way to give back to my community.”

– FELIPE QUINTERO OCHOA

COMMUNITY CONFIDENCE “There is nothing I want more in this world than for girls to be confident in their bodies’ capabilities.”

– HANNAH BAHAR

“Small things like serving food or handing out school supplies, has a huge effect on everyone in a community.”

– ALEK MODI

SERVICE “I hope to embrace the philosophy of servant leadership, which is the idea that a leader’s primary goal is to serve those they are leading.”

– NATE SAMELSON

CONNECTION “The smallest actions—such as translating for doctors, nurses, and patients—can in a positive way transform someone’s experience.”

– VIKTORIA KOSTYUK stamfordmag.com

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OPPORTUNITY “I started to recognize a very strong cycle in which a community’s desire to help and ‘open doors for others’ is treated as a tradition.”

– JUAN MANUEL GARCIA ORTIZ

INNOVATION

HOUSING “I would like to support those in need by creating safer and more secure places for them to live together with their families.”

– ANGELA CHAVEZ

“I aim to contribute to solutions that improve quality of life, specifically health at scale.”

– OLIVIA AJAYI

ADVOCACY

COMPASSION “If you have the opportunity to help someone, you should.”

“I want to support those who don’t have a voice, are reluctant to use it, and just need someone to tell them that their story matters.”

– PAULA ZANOL

– AYAAN SADIQ stamfordmag.com

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WHERE STAMFORD COMES TO

Pickleball is attracting everyone from newcomers to seasoned competitors, thanks to a welcoming community atmosphere. by s c ot t t hom as

©ZPHOTO83 STOCK.ADOBE.COM

PLAY

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ickleball America at Stamford Town Center has experienced 300 percent growth since it opened in 2023, with players of all ages and abilities now hitting dinks, volleys and lobs throughout the 40,000-square-foot, 13-court space that was formerly home to the Saks Off 5th department store. Earlier this year, six new pickleball courts opened at Scalzi Park, and more are expected to open at Cove Island Park later this year. “People thank me for getting them off the couch,’’ says Jay Waldner, co-owner of Pickleball America. “We’ve built a facility where people go to play, but also to just hang out, read a book and enjoy the culture around the courts.” Pickleball has been the fastest-growing sport in the United States for four straight years, with more than 24 million players in the U.S. One of the most astonishing trends in the game’s growth has been the change in demographics. At the outset, pickleball quickly became popular with older players, especially former tennis enthusiasts: The 60-foot court is half the size of a tennis court and requires much less running. But over the past few years, younger players have gravitated toward the sport for its social and team-building aspects. Children are also getting into the game, and some area schools have been helping students discover its appeal. “The biggest feedback that we get is people enjoy the sociability,’’ Waldner says. “It’s a great game to meet people. We do a lot of dating games and events. It’s almost like speed dating. People will come out in groups, maybe do a ladies’ night, and they’ll just have fun and listen to a little background music. It’s a very entertaining sport that does not entail trying to kill the ball and your opponent.”

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The founders of Pickelball America are (left to right) Joe Schipani, Mia Schipani, Jay Waldner and Jay Ross.

We’re surprised by how quickly people have become interested in it,’’ Waldner says. “It’s the number No. 1 teambuilding event for schools and corporations.”

LEFT AND RIGHT BOTTOM: PICKLEBALL AMERICA, TOP RIGHT: ©UNAI STOCK.ADOBE.COM

Waldner and his ownership group have leaned into the social experience at their facility with in-house catering, event planning and party resources, player/spectator lounges, a child play area, a hi-fi listening lounge with a DJ table, and a child play area. The venue regularly hosts social gatherings, clinics, fundraisers and tournaments. It is open seven days a week. “We’re surprised by how quickly people have become interested in it,’’ Waldner says. “It’s the No. 1 team-building event for schools and corporations. An organization will come with 20, 30 or even 100 people to play pickleball and have a team-building session before returning to work. It’s become a great activity where you don’t have to be an expert to play. It’s like ping-pong in that when you start, you pick it up in a couple of minutes and can have a rally back and forth.” As with any racket sport, hand-eye coordination will make the game more enjoyable. Waldner says rackets have good space for “hitability,” and players will develop quickness and agility over time. “When you’re at the net, you’re getting balls hit to you quickly and you have to react quickly, kind of like a goalie in hockey,’’ Waldner says. “But if you just want to have some fun and be in the back to hit ground strokes, like tennis, you can do that all day long. You don’t have to be a superstar. It’s exhilarating for people who have never played before to start rallies and have some consecutive back and forth.” People who want to learn how to play can enroll in an introductory class, attend a clinic or sign up for private lessons. “In the television show Cheers, the motto was to have a place where you could go hang out with your friends,’’ Waldner says. “That’s what we’ve created here. It’s a great place for people to hang out and just relax with their family or friends.”

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PRO TIPS FOR NEW PLAYERS

Pernille Halbro is head professional and director of pickleball at Pickleball America in Stamford. Here are her tips to improve your game.

SERVE: The serve starts every rally, and while it’s not an offensive weapon like in tennis, it sets up the point. The paddle head must stay below the wrist at contact, and the serve must be struck with an upward motion. My advice is to prioritize consistency and depth. A deep serve keeps your opponents farther from the kitchen line, making it more difficult for them to attack their return. THIRD SHOT DRIVE: The third-shot drive is an aggressive shot designed to pressure your opponents and force a weaker ball. It’s especially effective when your opponents are still transitioning to the kitchen or when you see an opportunity to attack. Many players with a tennis background naturally favor the drive but learning when to drive is what separates stronger players. THIRD SHOT DROP: This is one of the signature shots in pickleball and one of the most valuable skills to develop. It’s a soft shot that lands in your opponents’ kitchen, making it difficult for them to attack while giving the serving team time to move safely to the non-volley line. At higher levels, players often combine drops and drives, choosing the best option based on the situation rather than relying on only one shot. THE KITCHEN: This area on both sides of the net is where players cannot volley the ball while standing in the zone or touching the kitchen line. This rule makes pickleball unique. It prevents players from dominating at the net and creates longer rallies that reward patience and smart shot selection. LOBS: The lob can be an effective change-of-pace shot when used at the right moment. While it’s not a shot you want to rely on consistently, a wellexecuted offensive lob can push aggressive opponents away from the kitchen and create opportunities to move forward or regain control of the point. DINK: The dink is one of the most important shots in pickleball. It’s a soft shot played into the kitchen that forces your opponents to stay low and be patient. At beginner levels, players often prefer to hit hard because it’s more familiar, but as they improve, they learn that the dink creates opportunities to move opponents, force errors and set up attacks.

The sport was initially popular with older players, but children now like Pickelball for the social aspects.

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THE SOFT GAME: One of the biggest adjustments for players coming from tennis is learning the soft game. Power can win points, but control, consistency, patience and decision making win matches. The best players know when to speed the ball up and when to slow the game down. S

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Zoë Feldman Design

ZOË FELDMAN

JUDGES

NEAL BECKSTEDT

Neal Beckstedt Studio

CHRISTOPHER LAGUARDIA

LaGuardia Design Group

HADLEY WIGGINS

Hadley Wiggins

MATT BERMAN

Workshop/APD

WINNERS REVEALED AT OUR CELEBRATION ON WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 16 AT 6 PM AT THE VILLAGE, STAMFORD’S WATERFRONT DESTINATION!

A-List Awards 2026

17th ANNUAL DAVID MANN

MR Architecture + Decor

Scan here to see the finalists’ projects, our sponsors, and our judges!

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VENUE SPONSOR

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our sponsors

On September 16, 2026, we’ll gather to celebrate the very best of the best as winners are announced at the A-List Awards networking gala and ceremony. Congratulations to this year’s finalists, and thank you to everyone who entered, as well as to our judges and generous sponsors for helping make this program possible.

Choosing the finalists is never easy. Our distinguished panel of judges reviewed an exceptional field of submissions, evaluating projects that exemplify excellence in design, craftsmanship and execution. We’re proud to present this year’s finalists below, along with dedicated project pages featuring images and professional credits at athomealistawards.com. We encourage you to explore—and share—their work.

Every year, the A-List Awards offer a snapshot of the remarkable creativity shaping homes and landscapes across our region. From timeless architecture and beautifully crafted interiors to innovative outdoor spaces, this year’s entries reflect the talent, imagination and dedication of the professionals behind them.

Welcome to athome in Fairfield County magazine’s seventeenth annual A-List Awards.

HONORING EXCELLENCE

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MM Interiors @mminteriorsstudio MM Interiors Greenwich; 914-565-7852 mmhomeinteriors.com

Manor + Woods @manorandwoods Kerry Jacobs Manor + Woods Larchmont, NY; 914-450-1490 manorandwoods.com

KID/TEEN BEDROOM

Amy Aidinis Hirsch Interior Design Greenwich; 203-661-1266 amyhirsch.com

VanderHorn Architects with Amy Aidinis Hirsch Interior Design @vanderhornarchitects @amyhirsch_design Douglas VanderHorn VanderHorn Architects Greenwich; 203-622-7000 vanderhornarchitects.com

Ryann Swan Design @ryannswan Ryann Swan Design Greenwich; 203-561-9621 ryannswandesign.com

Curated Nest @curatednest Curated Nest Greenwich; 414-418-7750 curatednest.com

Calla Cane @callacane Calla Cane Rowayton; 203-810-9901 callacane.com

BATH DESIGN

Vicente-Burin Architects @vicenteburin Vicente-Burin Architects Fairfield; 203-319-9571 vbarchitect.com

Roger Ferris + Partners @rogerferrisandpartners Roger Ferris + Partners 11 Wilton Road Westport; 203-222-4848 ferrisarch.com

Marcus Gleysteen Architects @marcusgleysteenarchitects Marcus Gleysteen Architects Deep River; 617-542-6060 mgaarchitects.com

Granoff Architects @granoffarchitects Granoff Architects Greenwich; 203-625-9460 Palm Beach, FL; 561-320-2338 granoffarchitects.com

MODERN ARCHITECTURE

William Lyon Designs @williamlyondesigns Wiliam Lyon Designs Norwalk; 203-489-5624 williamlyondesigns.com

Prudence Bailey Interior Design @prudencebaileyinterior design Prudence Bailey Interior Design New Canaan; 203-859-9499 prudencebailey.com

Manor + Woods @manorandwoods Kerry Jacobs Manor + Woods Larchmont, NY; 914-450-1490 manorandwoods.com Period Architecture @periodarchitecture Period Architecture Greenwich; 203-971-0160 periodarchitectureltd.com

Calla Cane @callacane Calla Cane Rowayton; 203-810-9901 callacane.com Carly Weisman Architecture & Design @carlyweismanarchitect Carly Weisman Architecture & Design Watertown; 419-283-2888 carlyweisman.com

VanderHorn Architects @vanderhornarchitects Douglas VanderHorn VanderHorn Architects Greenwich; 203-622-7000 vanderhornarchitects.com

LIVING SPACE

KITCHEN DESIGN: Traditional/Classic

DK HOME @dkhomeco Danielle Perdue DK HOME Westport; 646-709-5547 dkhome-co.com

VAKOTA Architecture @vakotaarchitecture VAKOTA Architecture Greenwich; 212-655-9875 vakota.com

Nima Design @nimadesigninteriors Nima Design Greenwich; 646-426-7685 nimadesigninteriors.com

DEANE, Inc. @kitchensbydeane DEANE, Inc. Stamford; 203-327-7008 deaneinc.com

KITCHEN: Transitional/Modern

Studio Mason Design @studiomasondesignco Studio Mason Design Greenwich; 914-907-8962 studiomasondesign.com

Roost Interiors @roostinteriorsnj Roost Interiors Montclair, NJ; 973-337-8229 roost-interiors.com

Haver & Skolnick Architects @haverskolnickarchitects Charles Haver & Stewart Skolnick Haver & Skolnick Architects Southbury, 203-788-5920 haverskolnickarchitects.com

Austin Patterson Disston Architecture & Design @apdarchitects Austin Patterson Disston Architecture & Design Fairfield Co.; 203-255-4031 Hamptons; 631-653-1481 Palm Beach; 561-834-0191 apdarchitects.com

ENTRYWAY

AWARDS CELEBRATION / SEPTEMBER 16 / 6 PM

Granoff Architects @granoffarchitects Granoff Architects Greenwich; 203-625-9460 Palm Beach, FL; 561-320-2338 granoffarchitects.com

Glengate @glengatecompany Glengate Wilton; 203-762-2000 glengatecompany.com

Artemis Landscape Architects @artemislandarch Artemis Landscape Architects Sandy Hook; 203-683-1808 artemisla.com

LANDSCAPE: Less Than 1 Acre

Rosalia Sanni Design @rosalia_sanni_design Rosalia Sanni Design Greenwich; 203-918-4619 rosaliasanni.com

MDLA @mdlandarch MDLA Boston, MA; 203-592-4788 m-d-l-a.com

Hoblyn & Co. @hoblynandco Hoblyn & Co. Westport; 917-698-5686 hoblynandco.com

LANDSCAPE: Greater Than 1 Acre

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these collections with select Italian manufacturers and specialized workshops dedicated to bespoke production. From technical drawings and visual studies through sourcing, logistics, delivery, and installation, every phase is coordinated with precision.

drawings and visual studiesexclusively through sourcing, logistics, delivery, The Greenwich showroom represents Poliform and and installation, every phase is coordinated withGessi, precision. Flexform in Fairfield County, together with and complements

environments. company offers kitchens, walk-in closets,and The GreenwichThe showroom exclusively represents Poliform bathrooms, architectural paneling, custom millwork, systems, Flexform in Fairfield County, together with Gessi, andliving complements upholstered furniture, lighting, and architectural kitchen and bath these collections with select Italian manufacturers and specialized fittings. workshops dedicated to bespoke production. From technical

Since 1925, the Lucenti name has been connected to Italian craftsmanship and bespoke interiors. Today, third-generation founder Biagio Lucenti leads Lucenti Interiors, a high-end Italian interiors company with showrooms in Greenwich and New York City. Lucenti Interiors works closely withbeen architects, interior designers, Since 1925, the Lucenti name has connected to Italian craftbuilders, and homeowners to create complete, highly personalized smanship and bespoke interiors. Today, third-generation founder environments. The company offers kitchens, walk-in closets, Biagio Lucenti leads Lucenti Interiors, a high-end Italian interiors bathrooms, architectural custom millwork, living company with showroomspaneling, in Greenwich and New York City.systems, upholstered furniture, and architectural kitchen and bath Lucenti Interiors workslighting, closely with architects, interior designers, fittings. builders, and homeowners to create complete, highly personalized

lucentiinteriors.com

WEBSITE:

646-449-0128

PHONE:

389 Fifth Avenue | Suite 1108 | NYC, NY lucentiinteriors.com 122-124 East Putnam Avenue | Greenwich, CT

ADDRESS: WEBSITE:

Lucenti 646-449-0128

PHONE:

389 Fifth Avenue | Suite 1108 | NYC, NY 122-124 East Putnam Avenue | Greenwich, CT

ADDRESS:

Lucenti

OUR BRANDS

Greenwich showroom: 122-124 East Putnam Avenue - Greenwich, CT 06830 New York City Showroom : 389 Fifth Avenue - Suite 1108 - NYC, NY - 10016 Off.: 646.449.0128 - Info@lucentiinteriors.com - www.lucentiinteriors.com

AWARDS CELEBRATION / SEPTEMBER 16 / 6 PM

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The company’s success is marked by their transparency, synergy and determination to adhere to the values and client services that make the company great.

the most respected architects and designers in the construction industry. They employ experienced, dedicated professionals and talented craftsmen to plan and execute every step of the “Hobbs Approach” for each project. Whether renovating an apartment in New York City, constructing a waterfront home in the Hamptons or building a family retreat in Connecticut, each team is in constant communication to deliver a superior building experience from concept to completion and beyond. Hobbs Care, a division of Hobbs, Inc., is available to clients to provide comprehensive maintenance programs, renovations and continual home improvement services.

The company sustains strong, collaborative relationships with

Hobbs, Inc. is an award-winning builder of distinctive homes in Connecticut, New York and New Jersey. Brothers Scott and Ian Hobbs are proud to honor the legacy of integrity, quality and client service instilled by their grandfather and founder, Theodore deFreyne Hobbs, over six decades ago. seventy years ago.

hobbsinc.com; hobbs-care.com

WEBSITE:

203-966-0726

PHONE:

Hobbs, Inc: New Canaan, CT | New York, NY Saddle River, NJ | Bridgehampton, NY Hobbs Care: New Canaan, CT | Saddle River, NJ

ADDRESS:

Hobbs, Inc.

PRESENTING SPONSOR GOLD SPONSOR

A-LIST FINALISTS 2022

203.966.0726

www.hobbsinc.com

CONNECTICUT • NEW YORK • NEW JERSEY

DISTINCTIVE HOMES, ADDITIONS & RENOVATIONS

AWARDS CELEBRATION / SEPTEMBER 16 / 6 PM

Ap roach”foreachproject.Whether enovatinganapartmentin NewYorkCity,constructingawaterf onthomeintheHamptonsor buildingafamilyretreatinCon ecticut,eachteamis nconstant com unicationtodeliverasuperiorbuildingexperiencefrom concept ocompletionandbeyond.Hob sCare,adivsionofHob s, Inc.,isavail bletoclientstoprovidecomprehensivemaintenance

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Our sales team would be happy to visit your job site or home for a free estimate for your dream project! Please give us a call at (845) 4528444 or email us at info@fairviewhearthside.com and we will be happy to speak with you!

Our pledge is to deliver an extraordinary service while maintaining a high level of professionalism, integrity, foresight, and fairness. We are committed to growing Fairview Hearthside through complete customer satisfaction.

Each project we take on involves careful thought and planning and we pride ourselves on the ability to work with the customer in choosing the fireplace that best suits their style and needs. Fairview Hearthside offers many services to complete your project, from designing the look that you want to achieve through the follow-up maintenance of your hearth product for years to come. We maintain a staff of experienced, welltraveled and fully ensured technicians, as well as specialists in our Sales/ Design team and we are confident that your project will be handled with professionalism, thoroughness, cleanliness, and with safety in mind.

For over 40 years, Fairview Hearthside is the Hudson Valley’s first name in hearth products. Our latest product line from Fairview Cast Stone includes fireplace surrounds in a variety of colors and textures. Please visit our newly renovated showroom at 68 Violet Avenue in Poughkeepsie, NY, offering the latest indoor and outdoor gas, wood burning and electric fireplaces, gas log sets, fire pits, and custom fireplace doors. We continue to serve builders, architects, and designers with the very best of the hearth industry and we install every product we sell.

stamfordmag.com

A-LIST FINALISTS 2022

TOP DISTRIBUTOR OF

To p D i s t r i b u t o r o f To p D i s t r i b u t o r o f

68 Violet Avenue | Poughkeepsie, NY 12601 Call for a free estimate: 845 452-8444 fairviewhearthside.com fairviewhearthside.com | fairviewcaststone.com

68 Violet Avenue | Poughkeepsie, NY 12601 Call for a free estimate: 845 452-8444 fairviewhearthside.com

Fairfieldand andOutdoor Westchester Counties Fireplaces Kitchens Serving Fairfield and Westchester Counties

The Leader in Sales and Installation of Fireplaces and Kitchens Serving The Leader in Outdoor Sales and Installation of Fairfi eld and Westchester Counties Fireplaces and Outdoor Products Serving The Leader in SalesHearth and Installation of

AWARDS CELEBRATION / SEPTEMBER 16 / 6 PM

Thecompany’s uc es ismarkedbytheirtransparency,synergy and et rminationtoadher tothevaluesandclientservicesthat makethecompanygreat.

fairviewhearthside.com fairviewcaststone.com

WEBSITE:

845-452-8444

PHONE:

68 Violet Avenue Poughkeepsie, NY 12601

ADDRESS:

Fairview Hearthside Fairview Cast Stone

GOLD SPONSOR

A-LIST SPONSOR

Inc.,isavail bletoclientstoprovidecomprehensivemaintenance programs,renovationsandcontinualhomeimprovementservices. www.hobbsinc.com

CONNECTICUT • NEW YORK • NEW JERSEY 203.966.0726

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Vicente-Burin Architects @vicenteburin Vicente-Burin Architects Fairfield; 203-319-9571 vbarchitect.com

Granoff Architects @granoffarchitects Granoff Architects Greenwich; 203-625-9460 Palm Beach, FL; 561-320-2338 granoffarchitects.com

Christian Rae Studio @christianraestudio Christian Rae Studio Easton; 203-292-3090 christianraestudio.com

Asprea Studio @karenaspreastudio Asprea Studio New York; 917-309-4354 aspreastudio.com

PLAY SPACE: ADULT

Studio Mason Design @studiomasondesignco Studio Mason Design Greenwich; 914-907-8962 studiomasondesign.com

Sarah P. Major Interior Design & J. R. Held & Co. @sarahpmajor @jesserheld

Amy Andrews Interior Design Greenwich; 203-900-1700 amyandrewsinterior design.com

Charles Hilton Architects with Amy Andrews Interior Design @charleshiltonarchitects @aandrewsinteriordesign Charles Hilton Architects Greenwich; 203-489-3800 hiltonarchitects.com

Burr Salvatore Architects @burrsalvatore Burr Salvatore Architects Darien; 203-655-0303 burrsalvatore.com

RENOVATION

TDV Interior Design @tdv_interiordesign TDV Interior Design Weston; 646-369-6818 tylerdelvento.com

Smart Playrooms @smartplayrooms Karri Bowen-Poole Smart Playrooms Rye, NY; 914-260-3042 smartplayrooms.com

Sarah P. Major Interior Design @sarahpmajor Sarah P. Major Interior Design Darien; 860-575-3666 sarahpmajor.com

Calla Cane @callacane Calla Cane Rowayton; 203-810-9901 callacane.com

Camden Grace Interiors @camdengrace_interior design Camden Grace Interiors West Hartford; 860-944-2110 camden-grace.com

PLAY SPACE: KID

OFFICE/LIBRARY

Camden Grace Interiors @camdengrace_interior design Camden Grace Interiors West Hartford; 860-944-2110 camden-grace.com

Boldt Studio @boldtstudio Boldt Studio Cos Cob; 631-745-0051 boldtstudio.com

COMMERCIAL SPACE

Ryann Swan Design @ryannswan Ryann Swan Design Greenwich; 203-561-9621 ryannswandesign.com

Lulu Home @luluhome.alana @luluhome.cami Lulu Home Greenwich; 203-340-2161 luluhomedesign.com

Karen Bow Interiors @karenbowinteriors Karen Bow Interiors Darien; 914-953-1517 karenbow.com

D2 Interieurs @d2interieurs D2 Interieurs Weston; 646-326-7048 d2interieurs.com

DINING ROOM

J. R. Held & Co. Norwalk; 508-269-6868 jrheldandco.com

Sarah P. Major Interior Design Darien; 860-575-3666 sarahpmajor.com

Saniee Architects @sanieearchitects Saniee Architects Greenwich; 203-625-9308 sanieearchitects.com

Roger Ferris + Partners @rogerferrisandpartners Roger Ferris + Partners 11 Wilton Road Westport; 203-222-4848 ferrisarch.com

Riverside Design @ michelerudolph_architect Michele Rudolph, AIA Riverside Design Pound Ridge; 914-764-1096 riverside-design.com

POOL HOUSE

Stephanie Rapp Interiors @stephanierapp.interiors Stephanie Rapp Stephanie Rapp Interiors Westport; 203-216-5835 stephanierappinteriors.com

Sarah P. Major Interior Design @sarahpmajor Sarah P. Major Interior Design Darien; 860-575-3666 sarahpmajor.com

Roughan Interiors @roughaninteriors Roughan Interiors Weston; 203-769-1150 roughaninteriors.com

BEDROOM

Thiel Architecture + Design @thieldesign Thiel Architecture + Design Westport; 917-679-8070 thieldesign.com

AWARDS CELEBRATION / SEPTEMBER 16 / 6 PM

VanderHorn Architects @vanderhornarchitects Douglas VanderHorn VanderHorn Architects Greenwich; 203-622-7000 vanderhornarchitects.com

Lovas Architects @lovas.architects Nancy A. Lovas Lovas Architects Westport; 203-858-8730 lovasarchitects.com

TRADITIONAL ARCHITECTURE: Less Than 7,000 Square Feet

VanderHorn Architects @vanderhornarchitects Douglas VanderHorn VanderHorn Architects Greenwich; 203-622-7000 vanderhornarchitects.com

Tanner White Architects @tannerwhitearchitects Tanner White Architects Westport; 203-283-4749 tannerwhitearchitects.com

Period Architecture @periodarchitecture Period Architecture Greenwich; 203-971-0160 periodarchitectureltd.com

TRADITIONAL ARCHITECTURE: Greater Than 7,000 Square Feet

William D. Earls AIA Architect Wilton; 203-219-7838 williamearlsarchitect.com

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From everyday transportation to rugged work trucks to the ultimate weekend drive, it’s here at Karl Chevrolet! Visit today to discover how nearly a century of trusted expertise combines with tomorrow’s automotive technology for an unmatched customer experience.

Karl’s no-hassle approach means honest MSRP pricing or better— never charging premiums or market adjustments. It’s simply the right thing to do. The dealership has become a Northeast leader in electric vehicles, excelling in sales of the Equinox EV, Blazer EV, and Silverado EV while actively supporting EV charging infrastructure throughout Fairfield County.

The dealership offers Chevrolet’s complete lineup featuring cuttingedge technology and advanced safety features at exceptional value. From the world-class performance of Corvette to the powerful Silverado and all-electric Equinox EV, every vehicle includes the latest connectivity and driver assistance systems.

Karl Chevrolet is a proud third-generation family business founded in 1927, serving the Fairfield and Westchester County markets from New Canaan, CT. As a top-rated dealer recognized by CarFax, Cars. com, and DealerRater, Karl has built a stellar reputation through nearly 100 years of personalized service.

karlchevy.com

WEBSITE:

203-652-8008

PHONE:

261 Elm Street New Canaan, CT 06840

ADDRESS:

Karl Chevrolet

GOLD SPONSOR

Chevrolet Corvette C8

Chevrolet ChevroletCorvette CorvetteC8C8

From the work-day to From From the thework-day work-daytoto the weekend,we’ve we’ve the the weekend, weekend, we’ve got you covered! covered! got got you you covered!

Chevrolet Silverado Chevrolet Silverado Chevrolet Silverado

AWARDS CELEBRATION / SEPTEMBER 16 / 6 PM

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GOLD SPONSOR

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We invite you to visit our showroom at 48 W. Putnam Avenue in Greenwich to discover how California Closets can help elevate your home with beautifully organized living spaces.

California Closets is renowned for its legacy of innovation, organization, craftsmanship, and design leadership. Our talented team of design consultants and professional installers work together to deliver a seamless customer experience from initial California Closets is renowned for its legacy of innovation, inspiration to personalized design and expert installation. organization, craftsmanship, and design leadership. Our talented Whether designing walk-in closets, wall beds, installers kitchen pantries, team of design consultants and professional work entertainment centers, or home offices, our experienced together to deliver a seamless customer experience fromdesigners initial create customized solutionsdesign that bring beauty,installation. functionality, and inspiration to personalized and expert organization to every area of the home. Whether designing walk-in closets, wall beds, kitchen pantries, Our showroomcenters, is a thoughtfully space that showcases entertainment or home designed offices, our experienced designers our latest productssolutions while creating an engaging and immersive create customized that bring beauty, functionality, and environment for customers. A destination for design enthusiasts organization to every area of the home. and professionals alike, it highlights the quality, functionality, and Our showroom is a thoughtfully designed space that showcases craftsmanship that define California Closets. our latest products while creating an engaging and immersive We invite youfor to visit our showroom at 48 for W. Putnam Avenue in environment customers. A destination design enthusiasts Greenwich to discover how California Closets can help elevateand your and professionals alike, it highlights the quality, functionality, home with beautifully organized living spaces. craftsmanship that define California Closets.

californiaclosets.com

WEBSITE:

203-924-8444

PHONE:

203-924-8444 ADDRESSES: 48 W Putnam Ave | Greenwich | CT WEBSITE: 16 Saw Mill River Rd | Hawthorne | NY californiaclosets.com

PHONE:

California Closets

48 W Putnam Ave | Greenwich | CT 16 Saw Mill River Rd | Hawthorne | NY

ADDRESSES:

California Closets ™

CUSTOMXCLOSETS

ENTRYWAY

PANTRY

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HOMEXOFFICE

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Westchester 16 Saw Mill River Rd, Hawthorne 203.924.84 4 4 | CA LIFO RNIACLO S ETS.CO M

ENTRYWAY

Westchester 16 Saw Mill River Rd, Hawthorne Connecticut 48 W Putnam Ave, Greenwich 203.924.84 4 4 | CA LIFO RNIACLO S ETS.CO M SCHEDULE YOUR CO MPLIMENTA RY DESIGN CONSULTATIO N

CUSTOMXCLOSETS

Connecticut 48 W Putnam Ave, Greenwich SCHEDULE YOUR CO MPLIMENTA RY DESIGN CONSULTATIO N

™

MORE ROOM FOR WHAT MATTERS MORE ROOM FOR WHAT MATTERS

AWARDS CELEBRATION / SEPTEMBER 16 / 6 PM

©2026 California©2026 Closet Company, California Closet Inc. AllCompany, rights reserved. Inc. AllEach rights California reserved.Closets® Each California franchised Closets® location franchised is location is independently owned independently and operated. owned Local andcontractor operated. licenses Local contractor availablelicenses at californiaclosets.com. available at californiaclosets.com. CT HIC #0657205. CT HIC #0657205.

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Experience the difference of working with a family that shares your standards.

As twin brothers and business partners, we are intimately involved in all projects, ensuring clear communication, refined craftsmanship, and a deep respect for your home. Whether you require an emergency repair before a closing or a full-scale renovation, our family is dedicated to protecting yours—with integrity, care, and unmatched attention to detail.

Serving the area’s most prestigious communities, we offer a concierge-level experience in asphalt, cedar, slate and copper roofing, custom exterior enhancements, and historic home restoration. Our name is trusted by discerning homeowners, architects, and real estate professionals who appreciate timeless quality and white-glove service.

stamfordmag.com

CUSTOMXCLOSETS

ENTRYWAY

PANTRY

HOMEXOFFICE

7/20/26 12:50 PM

CUSTOM EXTERIOR CONSTRUCTION

www.rinaldibrothers.com w ww ww. ww w.rinaldibrothers.com

C r a f t e d f o r t h e E x t r a o r d i n a r y.

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At Rinaldi Brothers, we specialize in premium exterior solutions tailored for homeowners who expect the highest standards of excellence, discretion, and detail. As a family-owned business, we bring both legacy and luxury to every project—combining artisanal skill with modern precision.

rinaldibrothers.com

WEBSITE:

203-404-7719

PHONE:

76 Tokeneke Rd | Darien, CT

ADDRESS:

Rinaldi Brothers

GOLD SPONSOR

ENTRYWAY

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CUSTOMXCLOSETS

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As a multi-generational family-owned and led business, Ring’s End is at the forefront of industry trends toward environmentally friendly products and local business growth. They introduce the latest and most innovative products, focusing on trends such as sustainable brands. Additionally, they educate customers on various topics, including building science, proper preparation and application of coatings, and the latest color trends. As an industry leader, Ring’s End continues to expand and evolve. In addition to its retail locations, the company has three centralized distribution warehouses, a commercial paint and lacquer facility, a custom millwork shop, an education center, and a window and door installation department.

Ring’s End is the largest retailer of Marvin® windows and doors and Benjamin Moore® paint in the Northeast, with 35 locations serving both homeowners and building professionals. Eight locations operate as full-service lumberyards in Connecticut, Westchester County (NY), and South County (RI). The remaining 27 are dedicated paint centers, operating under the Ring’s End name locally, and as Johnson Paint in Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and Maine.

@rings_end Windows & Doors

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WEBSITE:

800-390-1000

PHONE:

181 West Avenue, Darien, CT

ADDRESS:

Ring’s End

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Your Inspiration.

Marvin®. Creating better ways of living with more natural light, fresh air, and expansive views.

Our Expertise.

to the 2026 A List Award Winners

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Learn more at marvin.com.

Driven by a spirit of possibility, our commitment to people goes beyond the products we make. We are dedicated to building longlasting and trusting relationships with our employees, customers, channel partners, and communities.

As a fourth-generation, family-owned and operated company, Marvin fosters a culture that is committed to living our values. Our commitment to doing the right thing, working stronger together, and thinking differently inspires us to be better every day. Crafted with exceptional skill, our products deliver quality you can see, touch, and feel, beauty that brings joy, and performance that stands the test of time.

With every window and door we build, we strive to bring more natural light, and fresh air into homes, and help create deeper connections with the natural world. We put people at the center of everything we do by designing for how people live and work while imagining new ways our products can contribute to happier and healthier homes.

At Marvin, we are driven to imagine and create better ways of living.

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WEBSITE:

888-262-4192

PHONE:

PO Box 100 Warroad, MN 56763

ADDRESS:

Marvin

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Your video produced by real journalists.

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Emmy Award winning Noah Finz is a veteran TV Sports reporter and anchor. He created and managed the Vantage Sports Network from Frontier highlighting CT sports. He spent 18 years as Sports Director for WTNH-TV, Connecticut’s ABC affiliate. He is a top producing real estate agent with Houlihan Lawrence.

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Emmy Award winning Kendra Farn is a veteran TV news reporter and anchor. She spent 13 years at WCBS-TV, and WNBC-TV in New York City, the country’s largest television market.

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Your business needs a high quality video. Still photos just don’t cut it. Nothing can sell you or your company better than video. Moving pictures and sound are far more engaging to customers and clients. Business videos can be multipurposed: to enhance your website, use for presentations, for e-newsletters, for social networking sites, and so on. Video is the way of today and is so easily accessible to everyone.

AWARDS CELEBRATION / SEPTEMBER 16 / 6 PM

Windows and doors custom crafted to your vision.

State of Giving in Fairfield County Light a Fire is back! Reimagined and ready to spark what’s next. With a refreshed format and focus on the future of giving, this year’s event amplifies a simple truth: we’re Better Together when individuals, towns and organizations collaborate to solve challenges bigger than any one effort alone. Join nonprofit leaders, philanthropists, foundation executives, dedicated donors and businesses for an evening that honors those who lead with heart and act with purpose. Plus, don’t miss our Light a Fire(side) chat on what’s next for giving in our community, from shifting economic pressures to the strategies shaping philanthropy’s future. Scan here for event and ticket information. Or, visit MofflyLifestyleMedia.com/LightAFire