‘26
SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER
Choose Your Path Educational Opportunities From K-12 and Beyond Pocket Cemeteries Unique New England Burial Grounds Jane Goodall’s Roots & Shoots Program
Cultivating Connection Between Land, Art, and Artist
Contents
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20
Choose Your Path Educational Opportunities for Every Learner CAReers Growing Opportunities for Young People in the Auto Industry
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24 Pocket
Cemeteries 2 • 068 MAGAZINE • September/October 2026
InSitu Cultivating Connection Between Land, Art, and Artist
ON THE COVER: Photograph by Dylan Miller
Contents
36 36
Canine College Celebrates 80 Years
40
Jane Goodall’s Roots & Shoots Program
46
Meet the Candidates Blake Consentino Aimee Berger-Girvalo
52
Afterschool Enrichment Guide
58
Shout Out Annual Turkey Pardoning MOMbies CT Short Play Fest
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64
One More Thing Botanicals by Jessica
Noted
by Melissa Barissi
New
Beginnings F
or most people, September signals the end of something—the last days of summer, the return to routine, the closing of a chapter. But spend any time in early childhood education, and you come to see this season very differently. For many of the children walking through our doors this fall, this is their very first experience in a school setting. Their first time away from family. Their first friendships. Their first chance to discover who they are as part of a community. This is not the end of anything; it is the beginning of everything, and that is something we never take for granted. What draws me to this work is the privilege of being present at that beginning. The experiences children have in their earliest years shape how they see themselves, how they relate to others, and how they approach learning for years to come. It is a responsibility our educators carry with great care every single day. As we welcome our first students to Tribeca Community School Ridgefield, we are grateful to become part of this wonderful community. We look forward to building something special together with our children, families, and educators for many years to come.
Warmly, Melissa Barissi, Program Director Tribeca Community School Ridgefield 66 Grove Street, Ridgefield CT
Behind The Scenes
Vol 6, Issue 5 • September/October 2026
Dee Dee Colabella Owner info@colabellamedia.com Greg Mursko Publisher publisher@colabellamedia.com
Sub-Head
Dylan Miller Chief Operating Officer dmiller@rpacartcenter.com
Julia Bruce Editor-In-Chief editor@068magazine.com Contributing Writers Roger Garbow
Contributing Photographers Dylan Miller and Stacey Scruggs
Advertising Sales David Gursky | 914.646.9141 dgursky@colabellamedia.com Erica Shillingford | 914.844.5602 eshillingford@colabellamedia.com Laura Lippman | 203.394.1706 laura@mcasemedia.com 068 Magazine is a publication of Colabella Media LLC. ©2026. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced without permission of the publisher.
www.068magazine.com POWERED BY
Featured Writers Tom McManus Tom McManus grew up in Bedford, NY and attended John Jay High School. Tom has traveled extensively around the US, Europe, and the Far East while working on Wall Street and has resided in Ridgefield for 25 years. In this issue, Tom writes about the phenomenom of “pocket cemeteries.” As an active member of the Ridgefield Historical Society, Tom has spent many years caretaking and researching these burial grounds. You can find his story on page #24.
Jen Wastrom Jen Wastrom was awarded the Connecticut Library Association’s Volunteer of the Year award in 2025 for her nearly 30-year service as a Trustee at the Mark Twain Library. She is currently an Executive Committee member on the Western Connecticut Board of Tourism and a Trustee for the Cultural Alliance of Fairfield County. On page #28, Jen, a longtime Redding resident, gives readers a peek at the secluded property InSitu which will host its inaugural artist residency this fall.
Carin L. Weisman Carin L. Weisman is an award-winning communications professional and author of numerous works, including the book #morninghaiku: a simple practice to inspire your every day. On page #36, Carin shines a light on Canine College in Redding, which is celebrating 80 years in business and three generations of tradition built on trust, compassion, and the belief that training dogs begins with educating their owners.
Darla Shaw Dr. Darla Shaw has been a teacher and full-time professor at WCSU for sixty-three years. Darla is also a comic, a reenactor, a playwright, and played in several bands. Traveling to over 90 countries, mostly doing humanitarian work, she loves sharing her stories. Darla won the 2024 Nancy Comstock Andrews Award for the Arts and the ROTA, civic award for her volunteerism. In this issue, Darla writes about Jane Goodall’s Roots and Shoots prorgram and its connections to the 068-area. Her story is on page #40.
The views and claims made by those featured in articles in this issue should not be considered medical advice and do not necessarily reflect the views of 068 Magazine. Before making any decisions about the treatments or health practices mentioned, readers should consult a qualified healthcare professional. 068 Magazine does not verify the accuracy of medical claims and is not responsible for any outcomes from following advice in this magazine. Articles may contain paid content, and we encourage caution when considering health-related claims. Always seek the advice of a healthcare provider if you have any concerns about your health.
EVENT CALENDAR BY September/October 2026 • www.068magazine.com • 11
Educational Opportunities From K-12 and Beyond by Julia Bruce
P
arenting is fraught with all kinds of important decisions, but selecting the right school for your child is probably one of the most significant. The choice between public and private education is one that some parents wrestle with. In an area like Fairfield County where the public school systems are very well-rated, what factors would sway parents to the private school sector? Private schools, such as Ridgefield Academy, (RA), which serves students preschool through 8th grade, are driven by clear missions and educational philosophies intentionally designed to support student growth. “Our students have the opportunity to engage deeply in a wide range of subjects to discover their interests and develop into well-rounded learners,” says David Suter, RA Associate Head of School and Director of Enrollment. According to Jason Giffen, Director of Enrollment Management at St. Luke’s School (SLS) in New Canaan, “Parents should strive to find the educational environment where their children feel a sense of connection and where they are known and valued.” Connection is often more easily facilitated with a lower student-to-teacher ratio. One of the main appeals of private
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education is smaller class size, which allows for more individualized attention. “Some kids need a little more of a relationship with their teachers. The smaller scale of private school means more eyes on each student,” says Giffen. Suter agrees, “The environment at RA allows every student to develop a strong sense of belonging.” Additionally, parents should consider the community values of the school. “Parents find kindred spirits here. We have a big service mentality; giving back is prioritized,” says Giffen. Obviously, cost needs to be a consideration. “About 20% of our students receive financial aid,” says Giffen. Ridgefield Academy also offers aid to a similar number of students. For parents thinking about private education, Suter suggests they take the time to explore different schools. “The best school for your child is the one that aligns with your family’s values and supports your child’s unique journey,” she says. Students graduating from private schools often feed directly into well-respected colleges and universities. While securing a spot at one of these schools is desirable, Giffen says that shouldn’t be the end goal. “Here at SLS, it isn’t just about getting into college but preparing our students to be successful when they get there.” For some students, however, the traditional four-year college route is not the best fit, in which case, attending a trade or tech high school or trade school after high school is an excellent option. Henry Abbott Technical High School in Danbury, a public high school within the Connecticut Technical Education and Career System, offers a unique educational model for students looking to explore options in the trade and tech fields. Admission to Henry Abbott is lottery-based, and tuition for all students is free of charge. The school runs on a standard 182-day school year, but where it differs from a comprehensive high school is that the school year is divided into two sections: an academic one and a trade one. During the trade cycle, students are engaged in their trade of choice in a hands-on, smallclass setting taught by a skilled tradesperson. “What students and parents love most about
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our school is the relationship with their trade teacher that is unique. It is almost like a family, and it really defines the climate of the school,” says Mike Crocco, Superintendent of Schools for the Connecticut Technical Education and Career System. Historically, trade or tech schools have been viewed as second or lesser options for post-high-school education. Scott Shaw of Lincoln Tech, which has Connecticut campuses in Shelton, New Britain, and East Windsor, says that trend is definitely shifting. “Students are reevaluating what they want to do. They don’t necessarily want to be stuck behind a desk but rather want to make an impact by fixing or building something,” says Shaw. Lincoln Tech offers one-year programs of study taught in 5-week subject blocks, from HVAC and Automotive Technology to Medical Assistants and Computer Networking. “We are seeing a skills gap – not enough people know the trades. Lincoln Tech aims to close that,” says Shaw. Employment is the goal of any graduate, whether it is a four-year college or tech school. An associate or bachelor’s degree definitely opens doors for new graduates, but in today’s job market, a certificate from a trade or tech school is also a pathway to finding work. “These students are gaining real-world experience,” says Crocco. “Our connection to industries in the area translates to employment potential.” Lincoln Tech graduate Paul Evangelista agrees, “I was able to learn more through Lincoln Tech with their trade-proven instructors and hands-on teaching methods than I had with over a decade of field work. I now work on cuttingedge submarines for the Navy.” The threat of AI taking over jobs is a real fear for those entering the workforce. Trade and tech schools prepare students for relatively guaranteed positions that aren’t going anywhere. “AI can’t take these jobs. Maybe it can help diagnose problems or offer suggestions, but these jobs require a person to get the actual work done,” says Shaw. Parents and students need to collaborate to determine the best educational path, with the knowledge that there isn’t a one-sizefits-all solution. “There’s never been more educational options out there. That’s the power of school choice,” says Giffen.
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This page, Matt Rosati of Speedsport Tuning in Danbury works on a rare 1958 Porsche 356 Carrera GT. Photo credit: Christopher McNeil. Right, Jon Clerk and restoration apprentice Kira Mundhenk working on a vintage Aston Martin at Steel Wings Restoration in Ivyland, PA. Photo credit: Bryan McCarthy
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by Roger Garbow
The growing opportunities for young people in the auto industry
T
he loss of high school shop classes and the decadeslong stigmatization of manual labor have created a shortage in the blue-collar workforce. Few industries are more impacted than the automotive sector. Car dealers and repair shops across the country are on a constant search for technicians (aka mechanics). For those interested in a more specialized automotive career, the restoration and motorsports sectors offer exciting long-term opportunities. New car technicians can make a good living with excellent job security. The very best dealers in terms of customer satisfaction tend to have the lowest technician turnover and fewer vacancies. As in any potential job, do your homework to find the best work environment. The first step is getting proper training. There are numerous schools to learn automotive tech, including Connecticut’s Porter and Chester Institute and UTI in Phoenix. Porsche’s Technology Apprenticeship Program is a 23-week hands-on program that works with graduates of UTI and other schools and then helps students find full-time jobs at Porsche dealerships. Porsche also has a Classic division, which specializes in repair and restoration. Speaking of classic cars, the restoration industry needs new blood. For vintage cars, whether it’s a Porsche or a Chevy, you can’t plug in a computer to diagnose a problem. Understanding what makes these cars tick and how to maintain them takes specialized experience and skills. Replacement parts are sometimes unavailable, so existing parts need to be refurbished or recreated. As the gray-haired experts retire, they are taking their knowledge base with them. One organization looking to reverse this decline is the Connecticut-based non-profit Piston Foundation (pistonfoundation.org). Jeff Mason, Co-founder and President, explained their mission. “We launched in 2021 to help more young people find careers in the collector car industry. Since our founding, we’ve awarded 83 scholarships (to schools like McPherson College in Kansas) totaling $300,000. We need 3,000-5,000 new techs each year just to
maintain current levels.” There are many paths one can take in the restoration world. Specialties like interior upholstery, electrical work, body panel fabrication, and paintwork allow young people to find the area that most suits their interests. With classic car prices at record highs, collectors are willing to pay to keep their cherished rides roadworthy. The motorsports world is another exhilarating career path. From Indy to Daytona to Baja, technicians keep the cars on track and give the drivers what they need to compete. The hours are long, and while the pay varies depending on the level of the team and sponsorship, the high-energy experience is unmatched. Schools like Georgia’s Lanier Technical College offer motorsports-specific programs. For those interested in motorsports engineering, Formula SAE is an annual competition for college students who design, build, and then compete in a car of their own creation. Motorsports offers a wide range of specializations, from suspension to drivetrain to aerodynamics. Watching a Formula 1 race, you only see a small number of the huge team supporting each car. If you are seeking an exciting career, the auto industry could be the perfect vehicle.
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September/October 2026 • www.068magazine.com • 21
ADVERTORIAL
RAISING HEALTH FOR ALL:
NUVANCE HEALTH IS NOW NORTHWELL
W
hile you may see a new name on the door of your trusted providers, this change represents a meaningful evolution of health care for communities across New York and Connecticut. With Northwell, the most awarded health system in the tristate, you now have access to more. More resources. More clinical expertise. And a greater investment in the future of health care. It’s the strength of a larger, more connected system—brought to the place you call home. Listening to each community’s needs, Northwell brings in the programs and specialists that matter most locally. That also means investing in the latest technology and in new, modernized facilities. All of these enhancements are
being done alongside broader efforts to make it easier to access support, medical records, virtual and inperson appointments, and more. And it’s all based on a simple, but powerful belief: where you live should never determine the quality of care you receive. Whether you’re in a city, small town, suburb, or rural community, every person deserves access to an excellent standard of care, no matter your zip code. Because there shouldn’t be a city standard of care and a rural standard of care. Or one expectation for New York and another for Connecticut. There should be one state of care—and it should be nothing short of excellent. Nuvance Health is now Northwell. And we’re here to raise health for all. •
Source: “Most awarded health system in the tristate.” Claim based on U.S. News & World Report’s 2025-26 Best Hospitals. Different hospitals within Northwell ranked for different specialties. USNWR HDI data and health system delineated by AHA Surveys 2018-2023. Tristate defined as NY, CT & NJ.
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Ridgefield’s Pocket Cemeteries by Tom McManus Left, Beers Cemetery, Above, Old Florida headstone with only“TC” on the fieldstone. Below left, another headstone from Old Florida, Bottom right, headstones in the Seymour cemetery.
I
f you have lived in Ridgefield for any length of time, you know the feeling: you are driving a familiar road near a driveway you have passed a hundred times, and suddenly you notice it. A few leaning monuments. A rusty iron gate. Taller grass than seen around Ridgefield’s weekly-mowed lawns. An ancient sugar maple tree pushing into a stone wall built by farmers long ago. One of Ridgefield’s tiny burial grounds has been there for two centuries, hiding in plain sight. In a place that commemorates the Battle of Ridgefield, from North Salem Road to Main Street, to the Keeler Tavern and beyond, among its well-kept historic homes and handsome churches, some of our most moving history rests in the quieter corners: the small family cemeteries tucked beside old roads, former farms, and the neighborhoods that grew around them. Ridgefield has more burial grounds than many people realize. The largest ones are easily visible from the road. Somewhat off the beaten path is the two-acre cemetery in Branchville (near the Elementary School). The cemetery adjacent to the ballpark on Ethan Allen Highway is smaller still;
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This page, headstones in the Beers cemetery. Right, Revolutionary War military marker in the Old Florida cemetery.
only one-third of an acre. Each of these cemeteries is easily accessible for visitors, with parking either on-site or within easy walking distance. Public listings identify about twenty active and historic cemeteries in town, from larger and better-known places such as Fairlawn, Mapleshade, Ridgebury, and the Saint Mary’s Cemetery (each with plots available); Branchville, Ridgefield, Olde Town cemeteries (aka Titicus, including Hurlbutt), where any remaining plots are already spoken for. Ye Burying Yard on Wilton Road East is labeled as the oldest cemetery in town with a large monument dedicated to 30 of Ridgefield’s founding families. Finding and accessing the smaller cemeteries in town (those that have as few as a dozen gravestones or sometimes three times as many) is somewhat more difficult. Often referred to as “pocket cemeteries” here and throughout the country, small cemeteries containing the remains of only one family (or a few) can be found in many countries around the world. There is a landscape lesson here, too. Many of these cemeteries seem oddly placed only because modern Ridgefield has grown around them. The old roads, farms, and districts came first. The subdivisions, widened routes, school runs, and commuter patterns came later. The cemeteries did not
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move; we did. That is why they can feel so startling. They interrupt the present with a reminder that this town has always been more than its current moment. Most pocket cemeteries in Ridgefield are named after families: Beers, Davis, Gamaliel Smith, Lounsbury, Seymour, and Selleck. Often, some of those interred therein may have been relatives or neighbors. These cemeteries may be small, but each one holds a piece of the old town map. A pocket cemetery may contain only a handful of markers, but it can preserve the memory of a farm family, a neighborhood, or a vanished crossroads. The reasoning behind these cemeteries is simpler than you’d think; accessibility for family to visit their deceased loved ones. Although Ridgefield may seem small by today’s standards, and with a car, traveling across town in the 1700s was potentially a day-long endeavor. The stones speak in the plain language of earlier Ridgefield. Some inscriptions count a life in years, months, and days; many mention the names of surviving spouses or parents. Some markers in Ridgefield’s cemeteries are military, connecting local families to the Revolution, the Civil War, or later service. Some sit in family clusters that show kinship and neighborhood ties more clearly than any map. Others are broken, weathered, or half swallowed by grass. Even then, they matter. A marble tablet, a fieldstone, or a barely legible name can tell us about settlement, craft, belief, grief, and the way one Ridgefield generation remembered another. If you go looking for them, go gently. Seymour, on South Olmstead Road, is probably the best one to visit first. Most of Ridgefield’s pocket cemeteries are fragile, and several are on or near private property. Respect signs, walls, gates, and neighbors. Do not rub old stones or try to clean a marker yourself. The Town’s Graveyard Restoration Committee has a mandate to maintain and restore old town cemeteries and seeks volunteers to help care for gravestones. For more information about Ridgefield’s pocket cemeteries, please visit ridgefieldhistoricalsociety.org or email thomas.m.mcmanus@gmail.com
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Insid
InSitu Cultivating Connection Between Land, Art, and Artist
F
or a community only 65 miles from the heart of Manhattan, Redding’s 32 square miles are unique. The steep slopes and exposed crests of three distinct ridges are separated by dense forest, lush meadows, cool ravines, and meandering streams. For decades, this idyllic landscape has lured an impressive list of creative influencers – Charles Ives, Edward Steichen, and Mark Twain notably among them – drawn by the striking beauty and peaceful lifestyle. Nestled amidst Redding’s woods is a privately owned 28-acre sculpture garden. Developed over the past 25 years, the owner’s vision for the property, named InSitu, is an oasis where nature and art interact. Working hands-on with a gifted team of professionals, he has significantly redefined the land to flourish in unique harmony with his internationally curated sculpture collection. The result is a nationally recognized showcase of architecture, horticulture, and sculpture. InSitu has been named one of the country’s most celebrated gardens by the National Garden Conservancy.
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by Jen Wastrom
Photography by Dylan Miller
Left, “Giant of Salt” by Coderch & Malavia, Spain. Below, left to right, “The Conversation” by Etienne Pirot, France. “Man Rising” by Matthias Alfen, Germany. “Girl With Lily” by Theo Megaw, South Africa.
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A view of The Great Lawn, The Sunken Garden, The Terraces and The Esplanade. Below, “Seated Nude” by Kevin Francis Grey, Ireland.
The owner of InSitu has long believed that his living, breathing gallery invites exploration and inspiration. InSitu isn’t simply a place where art can be seen; it’s a place where imagination is sparked. Nature is a studio, not a backdrop. With this core philosophy, the owner envisioned more for InSitu. The 2019 acquisition of an adjoining piece of property that included a 1910 Colonial Revival house provided a means to an end: this fall, the Artists’ Residency at InSitu will be launched. There are over 450 artist residencies in the United States, with a program landscape as expansive as it is diverse. Studio space at the gatehouse inside Green-Wood Cemetery in Brooklyn, the MASS MoCA campus in North Adams, cabins at the edge of the wilderness at the Alderworks Retreat in Skagway, Alaska, the 18th Street Arts Center in Santa Monica, and Ridgefield’s Weir Farm, which offers a furnished cottage and studio to artists representing a wide range of media. “The Residency at InSitu is unique in its impressive origins,” states the owner. “Few, if any, hold ties to such an impressive collection of significant cultural trailblazers: Mark Twain, the
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This page, “The Cloak of Conscience” by Anna Chramy, Czech Republic. Opposite page, top to bottom, “Angel Rotado” by Jorge Marin, Mexico. “Piccolo Minotauro e Arianna” by Federico Severino, Italy. “Genesis” by Theodorus du Plessis, South Africa.
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father of American literature; Anna Hyatt Huntington, a celebrated sculptor; Charles Ives, an internationally renowned composer; and Edward Steichen, a pioneer of modern photography. This illustrious group has two things in common: their creative contributions are iconic, and they all lived and worked in and were inspired by Redding’s scenic backdrop. Our program grew out of Redding’s impact on them, and their impact on the world.” A pilot Residency program was hosted at InSitu last year in conjunction with the University of Southern Maine. Six artists came to embrace uninterrupted time and space to explore their own work in an environment designed to spark creativity. There were no assignments, no deadlines—just the quiet hum of the garden, a shared appreciation for the arts, and the freedom to create. InSitu’s expansiveness gave them not only room to work, but to dream. As one student shares, “It was so special to be invited into such a peaceful, beautiful, and personal environment.” Another reflected on the rare gift of “being with myself and my thoughts in the gardens… making a cup of tea and listening to the birds before a day of creating.” In October, The Residency at InSitu will host its first official session. Five writers will be provided room, board, and the opportunity to pen without interruption, looking out upon the same forests and meadows that inspired Samuel Langhorne Clemens, aka Mark Twain, over a century ago. In addition to literature, future programs focused on photography, musical composition, sculpture, and landscape architecture will rotate annually. Redding’s idyllic landscape is indeed unique, having long enticed talented individuals to call it home. Numerous artists, musicians, filmmakers, producers, authors, and actors continue to settle in Redding’s quiet woodlands. It is the goal of InSitu’s next chapter to inspire visitors to harness the peace and passion that nature and solitude offer and embrace the possibility to do great things. • NOTE: InSitu is a private property and residence. The garden is not open to the public; tours are arranged in conjunction with the Garden Conservancy’s Open Days. You can go to www.gardenconservanacy.org for more
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Canine C
by Carin L. Weisman Designed by Dylan Desmarais 36 • 068 MAGAZINE • September/October 2026
College: Above: A bronze Field Spaniel statue stands watch, honoring the dogs and traditions that have shaped Canine College since 1946. Below: John and Betty Behan at the Madison Square Garden dog show. Left: Behan’s great granddaughter, Abigail, practicing her handling skills. Top and left photo by Jenaé Weinbrenner Photography.
E
very afternoon at Canine College, the routine is the same. As the dogs settle in for their after-lunch nap, one by one, they each receive a cookie, and the kennel falls silent.
“You could hear a pin drop,” said owner Sharon Lanoue. The ritual began decades ago with Sharon’s mother, Betty Behan, who believed boarding dogs deserved more than excellent care; they deserved comfort, consistency, and love. Eighty years later, that philosophy still defines this quiet corner of Redding. Pull down the tree-lined drive on Marchant Road, and it doesn’t feel like a commercial kennel. It feels like someone’s home, because it is. Home sweet home For Lanoue and her daughter Stephanie Kassner, and their families, Canine College isn’t simply where they work. It’s where they live. They know every dog by name and care for each as if it were their own. “Walking into the kennel should feel like walking into our house,” Kassner said. “This isn’t just our business. It’s our home.” Founded in 1946 by Lanoue’s father, John
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Above: Both training and boarding clients may enjoy a range of activities suited to their temperament and age. Photo by Jenaé Weinbrenner Photography.
Behan, Canine College grew from an unlikely beginning. During the Great Depression, Behan desperately wanted a dog and saved until he could mail-order a collie named Tyke, who arrived by train in a burlap sack. The family didn’t want to spend valuable resources on a poorly behaved dog, so Behan devoted himself to training Tyke, whose remarkable obedience eventually became the foundation for Behan’s extraordinary career. During World War II, Behan joined the Army’s K-9 Corps, where he developed the skills that would make him one of the country’s early pioneers in professional dog training. Behan helped establish police K-9 programs, trained security dogs for major institutions, and ultimately chose to settle in Redding, where he established Canine College and created a unique dog-training program for families. Three generations later, Behan’s granddaughter continues the work built on trust, compassion, and the belief that training dogs begins with educating their owners. Unlike traditional weekly obedience classes, dogs at Canine College stay on-site in an immersive three to five-week program designed to build lasting habits before owners return for individualized coaching.
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“We train,” Lanoue said. “They raise.” It’s an approach that recognizes something many owners don’t initially realize: successful training isn’t just about changing a dog’s behavior, it’s about helping people understand their own. “When owners recognize how their actions influence their dog, that’s when everything starts to click,” Kassner said. “We’re really educating families as much as we’re training dogs.” That approach has created extraordinary loyalty. Many clients today are returning with the children and grandchildren of dogs their families brought decades ago. “We’ve watched families grow up with us,” Lanoue said. “That’s probably the most rewarding part.” Canine College will mark its 80th anniversary with a Labor Day gathering for clients, neighbors, and friends. For Kassner, the milestone isn’t about the number. “I feel a sense of stewardship,” she said. “This began from very humble beginnings. To know we’ve helped thousands of dogs and families over the years and that people trust us with such an important member of their family, that’s something we’re incredibly grateful for.” For more information, please visit caninecollegect.com or call 203-938-2124.
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ane Goodall Roots & Shoots - An Environmental and Humanitarian Program for Youth
J
ane Goodall, the renowned ethologist and conservationist, is best known for her groundbreaking research on chimpanzees. What many people may not realize, however, is her strong connection to Connecticut’s 068 area. Jane spent decades at Gombe National Park in Tanzania, where her pioneering research transformed our understanding of chimpanzees and their close relationship to humans. As she learned about the threats facing chimpanzees, her focus shifted from research to advocacy. In 1977, she founded the Jane Goodall Institute (JGI) in San Francisco, California, which evolved into a global network of JGI offices to support her core dreams and inspire and engage others in conservation and humanitarian efforts. The institute reflects her enduring belief that individual actions can create meaningful change. As Goodall often said, “Focus on a life of hope, purpose, and the power of individual action to make your difference in the world.” In the early 1990s, Goodall expanded her mission by focusing on young people. She launched her Roots & Shoots youth program, establishing its first U.S. base at
245 Main Street in Ridgefield. Seeking a partnership with an urban university, she found the ideal collaborator in Western Connecticut State University (WCSU) in Danbury. For more than a decade, Ridgefield and WCSU served as the national headquarters for Roots & Shoots USA, allowing many local residents to work closely with one of the world’s most respected conservationists.
by Darla Shaw
Opposite page, clockwise from top: Jane Goodall at Gombe National Park in Tanzania, 1965. Photo by Hugo van Lawick; Jane with children as part of the Roots & Shoots program in Slazburg, Austria, photo by Robert Ratzer; Jane observing chimpanzee; Jane with Roots and Shoot students in Beijing, China. Photo by MA Xiaogang.
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Above, Jane speaking at the United States Mission in Uganda in 2022. Left, a chimpanzee in Gombe National Park, Tanzania. Photo by Rob Sassor. Bottom, 2016 Peace Day in Nkoloa Village, the Republic of Congo. Photo by Fernando Turmo.
In return for housing the program, Goodall committed to visiting the university regularly, delivering at least one major public events each year, and supporting satellite programs in the region. Danbury appealed to Goodall because of its many opportunities for young people to make a difference. The community offered cultural centers, churches, nursing homes, food pantries, and soup kitchens such as Dorothy Day Hospitality House, along with innovative schools, mental health and specialneeds organizations, open spaces, waterways, and animal rescue facilities. Through Roots & Shoots, Goodall helped schools establish peace gardens, treeplanting initiatives, clean water projects, and programs that connected students with adults. At WCSU, she supported grant writing, organized conservation summits, and helped design the university’s first permagarden. She strengthened participation in Day of Service activities, Earth Day, the International Day of Peace, and Respect for Animals Day. Goodall also launched several community initiatives. At the Federal Correctional Institution in Danbury, she established a gardening program
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Roots & Shoots
P
eter Shaker, a former Peace Corps volunteer in Thailand, is the director and producer of an independent documentary film: “Dar es Salaam to Danbury: The Roots and Shoots Movement” that focuses on the early years of the U.S. Roots & Shoots program, which took place in the Danbury, Connecticut area. When the Jane Goodall Institute was established in Ridgefield, CT, in the early 1990s, Shaker was a middle school teacher in Danbury. He partnered with the Jane Goodall Institute to organize and pilot Roots & Shoots programs at two middle schools. In February 1995, Dr. Goodall visited his Roots & Shoots students. Footage from this visit will be included in the documentary. The film will also highlight a few Roots & Shoots programs currently running in Fairfield County, CT, and elsewhere. Viewers of the documentary will gain an appreciation of the impact that Goodall’s U.S. Roots & Shoots program has had on individuals who were involved in the early years and those who are currently part of the program. The documentary, which will run around 60 minutes, will be uploaded to YouTube. For additional information, please email Peter at pshaker@ optimum.net or call 203-807-8709.
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Above, Jane with students from Michigan at 2019 Roots and Shoots Showcase in Chicago. Photo by Mary Paris. Left, photos of Jane speaking at Western Connecticut State University. Photos by Peggy Stewart, WSCU photographer.
in which inmates grew much of the food they consumed. During her years at WCSU, the Roots & Shoots program grew from just a dozen student clubs to more than 250 clubs across the United States. Each club was encouraged to identify its own priorities and develop projects tailored to its community. The guiding principle was simple: every project should improve the lives of people, animals, and the environment. While traveling nearly 300 days each year, Goodall inspired audiences around the globe, raised funding to support these initiatives, taught leadership skills, and organized international youth symposiums. Goodall also mentored many outstanding leaders from the region. Dr. Rick Asselta, a teacher at Alternative Center for Excellence, worked with his students to raise money for crutches and wheelchairs for a Special Olympics program in Tanzania. He continued developing innovative educational programs after relocating to Puerto Rico. Dr. Laurie Weinstein, an anthropology professor at WCSU, helped establish permagardens on campus. She later joined the University of Ottawa, where she expanded these sustainability initiatives internationally. I had the opportunity to volunteer in Tanzania along with Mei-Ling Uliasz, a
teacher from Bethel. Together, we facilitated literacy programs that also emphasized recycling and creating products to sell for school supplies. Inspired by the experience, Uliasz introduced recycling initiatives in her own schools and now organizes an annual “Trashion” Show that raises money for schools in Africa. I’ve continued my commitment to education by creating school-based Alzheimer’s and dementia awareness programs and developing an initiative empowering women through history. In these presentations, I portray influential historical women and lead discussions about their lives, achievements, and lasting impact. When Goodall passed away in October 2025, the WCSU community honored her remarkable legacy. To further celebrate her life and work, a documentary titled Dar es Salaam to Danbury will be released soon. (see sidebar). Jane Goodall had a unique ability to illuminate both the challenges facing our world and the power everyone possesses to make a difference. Those who worked alongside her describe her optimism and compassion as contagious. As someone who was inspired by Jane, I can attest that we can all be inspired to make the world a better place.
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Blake Consentino: Put Ridgefield First
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y name is Blake Consentino, and my family has lived in Ridgefield for three generations. Many in town knew my grandparents, Joseph and Sandra Consentino. Others may remember my incredible mother, Susan Consentino, who dedicated herself to protecting the character, beauty, and future of our town. Two years ago, following an eight-month battle with stage IV cancer, I lost my single mother who raised me, inspired me, and showed me how to fight hard for the people and places you love. Those months were the hardest of my life, but they undoubtedly shaped me into the man I am today. My campaign for State Representative is inspired by and honors my mother’s commitment to Ridgefield. Our town is not just a temporary step in my journey; it is my home. I am not running as a partisan; I am running as a Ridgefielder. Many of the daily issues we face in our lives are not left versus right. I believe a representative should be accountable to the community they serve. This is why I am the first Connecticut political candidate to sign a public, notarized commitment stating that if I fail to deliver on my core promises, I forfeit my right to seek re-election. Ridgefield deserves to have a voice in Hartford; one that is rooted in this community, transcends party politics, is accountable to its people, and is committed to protecting the town we all love.
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Representative Aimee Berger-Girvalo: Collaborative, Effective Leadership
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epresentative Aimee Berger-Girvalo delivers practical, resultsdriven leadership reflecting the needs and values of Ridgefield. In 2025, just just her third term, she was appointed Transportation chair, one of the largest and most impactful Connecticut General Assembly committees. A responsibility typically reserved for far more senior members, the appointment reflects her colleagues’ trust in Aimee to lead complex policy issues. Aimee produces effective government through broad, deep collaboration. For example, she successfully lobbied to place First Selectperson Rudy Marconi on a legislative working group to affect state housing and development policies, ensuring future efforts incentivize, rather than mandate, expanded housing. Aimee actively collaborates with RPD Chief Kreitz in their joint effort to improve Ridgefield road safety, including calling a recent meeting with CTDOT and the City of Danbury to address fatalities on Route 7 just north of the Ridgefield border. Aimee’s leadership style is grounded in balance: expanding opportunity while safeguarding the quality of life that defines Ridgefield. She prioritizes informed, inclusive, and sustainable solutions focused on real outcomes rather than ideological agendas. By working across levels of government and engaging key stakeholders, she delivers thoughtful policies that serve residents’ current and long-term interests.
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A “Beautiful” Beginning: A.C.T. of CT:
Season 9 Opens with Carole King
W
PARTNERSHIP
hen A.C.T. of CT raises the curtain on its 2026– 2027 season, audiences will be treated to one of Broadway’s most beloved and inspiring musicals: Beautiful: The Carole King Musical. Winner of two Tony Awards and a Grammy Award, Beautiful tells the remarkable true story of Carole King’s journey from a young songwriter in Brooklyn to one of the most successful and influential singer-songwriters of all time. Along the way, audiences experience the friendships, rivalries, and relationships that shaped an era of popular music while hearing the unforgettable songs that became the soundtrack of a generation. Packed with chart-topping hits including “I Feel the Earth Move,” “One Fine Day,” “Will You Love Me Tomorrow,” “You’ve Got a Friend,” “The Loco-Motion,” and “You Make Me Feel Like A Natural Woman,” Beautiful is more than a jukebox musical - it is a celebration of resilience, creativity, and the transformative power of music. At A.C.T., this extraordinary story will take on a unique and deeply personal dimension. One of the great strengths of the theater’s intimate space is its ability to place audiences directly in the center of the action. Every seat is close to the stage, allowing patrons to experience the emotion and heart
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of Carole King’s incredible story in a way that larger venues simply cannot replicate. As always, A.C.T.’s production will combine Broadway-caliber talent, dynamic staging, and the immersive storytelling that has become a hallmark of this award-winning theater’s work. Audiences will feel as though they are sitting in the recording studios, stages, and songwriting sessions where some of the most iconic music ever written first came to life. For those who grew up with Carole King’s music, the show offers a joyful trip down memory lane. For younger audiences, it provides an opportunity to discover the artist behind songs that have remained popular for generations. Whether patrons know every lyric or are hearing these classics for the first time, Beautiful promises an unforgettable and moving theatrical experience. Known for delivering Broadwaycaliber productions in an intimate and immersive environment, A.C.T. is poised to make Beautiful an unforgettable theatrical event. As the first show of A.C.T.’s ninth spectacular season, Beautiful: The Carole King Musical is just the beginning of a lineup of shows that promises to be one of the theater’s most exciting, ambitious, and memorable season to date!
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Afterschool Enrichment Guide
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Here to help with every subject, from foundational math and reading to physics and everything in between. To celebrate Tutoring Club’s 22 years in business, mention you saw our ad in 068 Magazine and receive 5 free hours. Good for new and existing customers.
ince 2004, locally owned and operated Tutoring Club has been a cornerstone of the community, helping more than 400 students each year through its experienced team of professional tutors. From kindergarten through senior year—and beyond—Tutoring Club has earned annual recognition for helping students succeed in reading, writing, math, science, AP courses, and SAT®/ACT® preparation. Managing Director Joey Salaga believes every student can benefit from extra support. “Everyone needs help sometimes. Classes can move quickly, and life—including extracurricular activities—can complicate things. We’re here to help with every subject, from foundational math and reading to physics and everything in between.” Individualized support is key. The Tutoring Club creates a game plan customized to each student’s specific learning needs. One recent graduate and Tutoring Club scholarship recipient shared, “Without Tutoring Club, I would have struggled far more. The flexibility made all the difference. Some weeks I attended twice, while other weeks I took time off. Joey was always there to work with my schedule.” Joey’s advice to families is simple: “Start early. Turning grades around in November is much easier than waiting until May. Once a student falls behind, the challenges compound quickly.” That philosophy has helped thousands of students build confidence, improve academically, and thrive over the past 22 years. The Tutoring Club is proud to sponsor this special section in 068 Magazine devoted to helping parents find resources to support their children’s growth and development – both in the classroom and outside of school.
105 Danbury Road, Ridgefield • 203-438-1128 • ridgefieldct@tutoringclub.com
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Afterschool Enrichment Guide
Dance All Day Long
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he Ridgefield School of Dance is renowned for excellence in classical ballet instruction, exceptional technique and focus, and small class sizes. For over 25 years, the school offers a complete curriculum for dancers ages 3 through adult. Registration is available for the Fall 2026 session. Classes begin September 8.
Enriching Minds, Enhancing Community
H
ere For You! The Ridgefield Library is your place for early literacy, social connection, exploring, and learning. With over 600 programs each year geared to children and families, you will find something new every week! Sign up for our e-newsletters and don’t miss a thing. See you at the Library!
Contact information: 472 Main Street, Ridgefield, CT 06877 203-438-2282 www.ridgefieldlibrary.org
The studio is located at 66 Grove Street. To register go to www.theridgefieldschoolofdance.com or call/text 203-894-5957
The
Harvey School N
KATE WARK PHOTOGRAPHY
estled in Westchester County, Katonah, New York, The Harvey School is a college preparatory school for grades 6–12 where students are known, challenged, and supported. Small classes, dedicated teachers, robust academics, arts, athletics, and 70+ electives foster curiosity, confidence, personal growth, and success in college and beyond. Contact Info: The Harvey School 260 Jay Street Katonah, NY 10536 914-232-3161 www.harveyschool.org admissions@harveyschool.org
September/October 2026 • www.068magazine.com • 53
Afterschool Enrichment Guide
Where Readers and Writers Grow and Thrive
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entrally located in Ridgefield, The Literacy Barn provides personalized instruction in reading, writing, and math for all ages. Through comprehensive assessments, individualized tutoring, engaging small groups, and a holistic, nurturing approach, our expert educators help students build confidence, strengthen essential academic skills, and achieve lasting success in a supportive environment.
Mind and Body
email: info@theliteracybarn.com • phone: 203-513-4206 • website: www.theliteracybarn.com address: 162 Danbury Road, Ridgefield
A
t Core Academy, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is a vehicle for building character. Through disciplined training, expert instruction, and a culture rooted in respect, students develop confidence, resilience, and leadership that strengthens them at home, in school, at work, and throughout life. Core Academy BJJ 113 Danbury Rd, Ridgefield, Connecticut 06877 203-529-1425 info@coreacademybjj.com
Math & Reading
Center of Wilton
K
umon of Wilton is an afterschool center based on the famed Kumon method. It provides individualized math and reading programs that build core standards and essential work skills. Through Kumon Connect tablet study and specialized support for English as a Foreign Language, the curriculum fosters independent learning, boosts confidence, and offers flexible scheduling for busy families.
(203) 423-2396 5 River Road Suite C7, Wilton, CT
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PAC invites you to join our after school art sessions, where our instructors guide you along the path to your own creative goals while you work on a project of your choice! Available in one, two, or three hour sessions.
Contact Info: www.rpacartcenter.com Email: info@rpacartcenter.com Phone: 475-215-5740
Illustration Oil Painting Colored Pencil/Pastels Fashion Acrylic Painting & more
Afterschool Enrichment Guide
Creativity Unleashed!
Shout Out
Ridgefield ’
I
oning Ceremony 11.2 2.26 t & Pard Even
J
oin us for Ridgefield’s 4th Annual Turkey Pardoning Ceremony on Sunday, November 22, 2026, for a fun-filled community celebration with a purpose! The festivities begin at 12:00 noon, with the official Turkey Pardoning Ceremony at 1:00 p.m. After the pardon, from 1:00–1:30 p.m., everyone is invited to meet our honored turkey and take photos with this year’s feathered celebrity. This special event is part of The Act of Giving Back, supporting three outstanding local organizations: The Boys
& Girls Club of Ridgefield, Ridgefield Veterans Memorial Community Association, and The Angel of Ridgefield. Before the big day, we need your help! Our community is invited to name this year’s pardoned turkey, who comes from Ridgefield’s Henny Penny Farm. Vote for your favorite name, and the winning entry will be announced on October 1 across the 068 Magazine social media platforms. As a thank-you for participating, everyone who votes will be entered into a drawing to win either a FREE quarterpage advertisement in 068 Magazine or a community gift card to participating downtown Ridgefield shops. Cast your vote today by visiting www.068magazine.com and following the link to the Turkey Naming Survey. Help us give our guest of honor the perfect name, support great local causes, and join us for one of Ridgefield’s favorite Thanksgiving traditions! Names to be voted on are:
Biscuit Waddles Pumpkin Liberty
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magine 50 women decked out as zombies and armed with creepy choreography, haunting the streets with flash mob performances, and you have the MOMbies®, a volunteer-powered grassroots movement that transforms creativity, community, and laughter into meaningful support for metastatic breast cancer research. “It began as a neighborhood stunt and has blossomed into a tradition not only in fun, but a shared desire to make a difference,” says MOMbies Founder and Director, Terry Davis. While dancing dressed as zombies and embarrassing their kids is part of the fun, MOMbies is really about connection, courage, and friendship. It’s ordinary women stepping outside of their comfort zones to do something joyful and purposeful. Each year, the project includes a few moms currently undergoing treatment along with several cancer survivors, making each performance a powerful show of support and solidarity. “We dance for our mothers, sisters, friends and every person tackling this ugly disease. Our dance is fueled by love, determination, and solidarity,” says MOMbies member Rebecca Hasiotis. To date, the MOMbies have raised $1.2 million for metastatic breast cancer research at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center. They have tens of millions of social media views worldwide and have appeared on The Kelly Clarkson Show and ABC World News Tonight and many other outlets. This year, the MOMbies will dance at the Fairfield Town Hall Green on Halloween evening. For more information, please visit Mombies.org or @mombiesorg.
MOMbies
ning rdo Pa
nual Turkey n sA
CT
Short Play Fest ‘26
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n Saturday, August 1st, Thrown Stone Theatre Company presented the second annual CT Short Play Fest at the Crystal Theatre in South Norwalk, which featured eleven new plays performed by an ensemble of six actors over two sessions. Session 1 was open to playwrights ages 16 to 22. The judges selected Still Becoming by Ashley Diaz (16), a rising senior at Norwalk High School, to advance to Session 2. The Audience Choice Award ended in a three-way tie: Still Becoming; Do Not Pet by Anna Parker (19, Houston, TX); and Fata Morgana by Luca Vladimiroff (21, Cold Spring, NY). In Session 2, top honors were awarded to two plays: Pas de Deux by Dana Schwartz of Los Angeles and The Fine Print by Jack Karp of San Francisco. The Fine Print also won the Session 2 Audience Choice Award. This year’s celebrity judges were Dee Dee Colabella, publisher of 068 Magazine; Jennifer Prescott, Broadway performer and director; Elizabeth Shapiro, Director of Arts, Preservation and Museums for the State of Connecticut; and Darlene Young, Youth Services Program Manager for the City of Norwalk. Thrown Stone Theatre Company is the only professional theatre in Connecticut exclusively dedicated to new work. From commission to development to production, Thrown Stone empowers artists and audiences to engage with the important questions of our time. “In our second year of this festival, it’s clearer than ever that we’re providing a path for young playwrights to compete on a national stage,” said Jonathan Winn, Executive Director and Co-Artistic Director. Full results and production photos from CT Short Play Fest can be found at thrownstone.org/fest-26-winners.
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Things To Do 62 • 068 MAGAZINE • September/October 2026
One More Thing | Powered By Fairfield County Bank
More Than Just Arranging
Flowers A
t Botanicals by Jessica, we believe floral design is more than arranging flowers—it’s an art that transforms the way people experience their surroundings. Every bouquet, plant, and botanical creation is thoughtfully designed to bring beauty, connection, and intention into everyday life. Our passion extends beyond flowers. We love helping people create homes and workspaces that feel welcoming, balanced, and uniquely their own. Whether through fresh flowers, living plants, or a combination of both, we guide our customers in selecting botanical elements that complement their lifestyle and enhance their environment. That passion also extends to education. Through our monthly floral workshops and private custom workshops, we invite people of all experience levels to discover the art of floral design. Our classes are designed to inspire creativity, build confidence, and help participants bring professional design techniques into their own homes while creating something beautiful with their own hands. For us, every stem has a purpose, every plant tells a story, and every space deserves to feel alive. Whether you’re marking life’s biggest celebrations, offering comfort during difficult moments, or simply bringing beauty into an ordinary Tuesday, our goal is to help you experience the joy and lasting impact that thoughtfully designed botanicals can have on your daily life. After all, flowers don’t just decorate a space—they transform it. •
you can now vote for who to highlight for One More Thing: Go to 068magazine.com/voteforonemorething link and fill out the form to recommend a person you would like to see highlighted who is exceptional in the arts. You can vote for any category of artist and then list the name of the artist or work of art. If you are an artist, please use the HIGHLIGHT MY ART graphic which can be downloaded to campaign for votes. The artist with the most votes in October will be spotlighted in the November/December issue. Thank you for supporting the arts in Fairfield County.
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