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7,000+ Patients & Families Served
$200,000+ Donated to Local & National Philanthropies
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THE WORLD’S #1 IN ORTHOPEDIC CARE NOW IN WESTPORT.
HSS, the world's leading orthopedic care provider, is teaming up with Stamford Health to give you convenient access to doctor visits, follow-up care, second opinions, imaging and more, all at a brand new location in Westport. So you can get back to moving better and doing what you love, right here in Connecticut.
To learn more about specialties and services, visit HSS.edu/Westport
November 2024 Publisher’s Letter
In this season of giving thanks, we often find ourselves reflecting on the many blessings in our lives. The true spirit of Thanksgiving encourages the conscious expression of gratitude. Its focus is spending time with those that you love and encourages giving back in a meaningful way. While ambition, competition and slaying goals can be very healthy, forgetting to place importance on being present, enjoying the ride and appreciating those around us that have helped us along in our journey, can leave us missing out on what truly matters. We’ll never be content if we look outside ourselves and at our possessions or titles to determine if we are fulfilled. True contentment comes from within and from fulfilling who we were made to be.
Our November issue is dedicated to stories of gathering, gratefulness and giving back to our community. We are so thankful for the residents and businesses in our community who support so many wonderful organizations and help make our town the vibrant community that it is. We are especially thankful for our advertising partners who help bring this magazine to your doorsteps each month. They are part of our vision and purpose of bringing inspiring stories and the good news of the community directly to you. This holiday season as we prepare to gather with our loved ones, and in the true spirit of Thanksgiving, let’s set time aside to consider what truly makes life meaningful and stop to reflect on those blessings.
BRUCE
BERNSTEIN, PUBLISHER
November 2024
PUBLISHERS
Bruce Bernstein | bruce.bernstein@citylifestyle.com
Mindy Katz | mindy.katz@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Samantha Beranbom
samantha.beranbom@citylifestyle.com
PUBLISHER ASSISTANT
Pam Antonacchio | pam.antonacchio@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Kristen Cusato
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER
Dariusz Terepka Photography
Corporate Team
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Rachel Chrisman
LAYOUT DESIGNER Andi Foster
city scene
the
Wine on
Water to Benefit Friends of the Bigelow Center for Senior Activities 1: Deborah Valentin, Brenda Steele, Ed and Debbi O’Keefe 2: Laura Incerto, Brenda Steele, Julie DeMarco, Deborah Valentin 3: Tony Hwang and Bruce Bernstein 4: Neil Anand, Susan Hood, Deborah Valentin and Bill Gerber 5: Joe Pisani, Karen Mazako and Deborah Valentin 6: Barbara Stelling, Rosemary Rembetsy and Lori Gorman 7: Bill Gerber, Debbi and Ed O’Keefe
107 John Street, Southport, CT 06890
(203) 327-1212 | www.5thstreetadvisors.com
Shane Pendley, CFP® | spendley@5thstreetadvisors.com
Cesar Manent, CFP® | cesar@5thstreetadvisors.com
Abelardo Curdumí, CFP® | curdumi@5thstreetadvisors.com
Jamie Hulley Arts Foundation 2024 Evening for the Arts Gala 8: Christine Rowland, Heather Bazinet and Diane Crocco 9: Colte Julian and Patrick Duffy 10: Charles Rosenay and Judy Primavera 11: Jared Andrew Brown and Kari Hulley Nardone 12: Talya Braverman and Emily Killian 13: Fred Hulley, Kari Hulley Nardone and Judy Primavera 14: Dennis Conroy and friends Photography by Alexandra Joy Photography
Fairfield Chamber Coffee Connect at ComForCare Home Care 15: Neil Anand, Beverly Balaz and Katelyn Thaler 16: Mark Lee, Joe Flattery, Neil Anand and Beverly Balaz 17: Beverly Balaz and Katelyn Thaler 18: Harold Spitzfaden, Neil Anand and Mark Lee 19: Andrea Kopilak and Julina Ogilvie 20: Noel Zanvettor, David Zanvettor and Jeanne Bracken 21: Jackie and Peter Swetckie
Lincoln Parkapalooza 22: Richard O’Connor, Rich Douglas and Kerry Jean Douglas 23: Turn on Red’s Tracy Kohlarich, Ariadne Kambas and Dan Wilson 24: Aaron Francis and Mike Smith 25: Jen Stowell, Megan Agee, Juliette Spellman, Vanessa Desantis, Hilary McKusker and Pam Ziegler 26: Nate Balogh from Ellis Island 27: Hannah Krasznai, Maggie Pierce, Tracy Kohlarich and Michele Krasznai 28: Marc Montanaro, Kelli Montanaro and Amy LaRoche
Monthly Sunday Brunch
Birthdays & Date Nights
Bridal Showers
Bachelorette Parties
Holiday Parties
Corporate Events
Happy Hour Mixers
Monthly Paint N Sip Services:
Manicures & Pedicures
Massage Therapy
Skin Care & Hair Removal Wine N Charcuterie
Charcuterie Boards
Bites
Science Over Tradition
The Science Over Tradition training system revolutionizes the connection between health and performance. Our Strong(her) program empowers women to become lean, strong, and healthy, while our strength and conditioning program delivers cutting-edge, age-appropriate training for athletes in grades 7-12, reducing injury risk and optimizing performance. Both programs are supported by our high-quality sports therapy clinic. scienceovertradition.com
Kasson Jewelers
Kasson Jewelers is a trusted third generation family run jewelry store owned and operated by Alan & Susan Rona Kasson. We have a unique selection of designer and fashion jewelry. Specializing in custom design, estate jewelry, engagement and bridal. Our highly skilled, talented jewelers and goldsmiths on staff also offer appraisals, repair & restoration services. Come visit our family jewelry store in Southport, CT. kassonjewelers.com
Photography Provided by Kasson Jewlers
Ryan C. Sheppard | CPA,CFF Managing Partner
Cohen and Wolf, P.C
Since 1951, Cohen and Wolf, P.C. has expanded to over 50 attorneys with offices in Bridgeport, Danbury, and Westport. Attorneys at the firm represent a diverse assortment of individuals, businesses, and municipalities, handling their personal and professional legal needs, from matters involving litigation, employment, personal injury, corporate and securities law, commercial lending, real estate, land use and zoning, to family law and estate planning. cohenandwolf.com.
Photography Provided by Cohen and Wolf, P.C
MONECO Advisors
Established in 1980, MONECO Advisors is headquartered in Fairfield, CT with six additional office locations throughout New England and the NYC Metro. Our multi-generational firm offers dedicated financial, tax, and estate planning serving individuals, families and small businesses. What sets MONECO apart is our relentless pursuit of offering value, experience and knowledge as we strive to help transform our clients’ financial plans at every stage of life. monecoadvisors.com
Scan to read more
Photography by Neil Landino/ Landino Photo
The Give Collective
Nestled in the heart of Fairfield, The Give Collective, offers a curated selection of unique, high-quality goods, each chosen with care and purpose. We proudly support local charities by donating 10% of all proceeds, making every purchase a contribution to the greater good. Visit us to explore our sweet collection and join us in giving back to the community we cherish. thegivecollective.org
Photography Provided by The Give Collective
Beers, Hamerman, Cohen & Burger, P.C.
At Beers, Hamerman, Cohen & Burger, P.C. (BHCB), we combine the expertise of large firms with the personal touch of smaller ones. Our services are tailored to businesses, individuals, employee benefit plans, nonprofits, and trusts. We are committed to providing exceptional service and strategic solutions. Explore our four main service areas to see how we can help you achieve your financial goals with precision and care. Learn more at www.bhcbcpa.com
ARTICLE BY SAMANTHA SCHOENGOLD BERANBOM
HOW HOMES FOR THE BRAVE EMPOWERS VETERANS
RESTORING HOPE
PHOTOGRAPHY BY DARIUSZ TEREPKA PHOTOGRAPHY
We recently had the opportunity to visit with Homes for the Brave, an incredible organization supporting our local Veterans. We met the amaz-
facility, providing essential support to male Veterans experiencing homelessness. In partnership with organizations like the Connecticut Department of
“HOMES FOR THE BRAVE HELPS VETERANS REGAIN THEIR INDEPENDENCE AND CONFIDENCE.”
ing staff including CEO and Executive Director, Vincent Santilli, along with the Director of Communications & Outreach, Mea Allbert.
FLM: CAN YOU TELL US ABOUT THE ORGANIZATION’S HISTORY?
HFTB: Homes for the Brave, founded by the Applied Behavioral Rehabilitation Institute, Inc. (ABRI), began its journey in response to the significant need for programs and services for Veterans experiencing homelessness. Recognizing that many Veterans faced barriers to securing stable housing and employment after their service, ABRI set out to fill this gap. In 2001, the organization secured funding from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs and other sources to purchase and renovate 655 Park Avenue in Bridgeport, Connecticut. The following year, Homes for the Brave opened its doors as a 42-bed transitional living
Mental Health and Addiction Services (DMHAS), the facility has focused on helping Veterans rebuild their lives and regain their independence.
As the needs of Veterans evolved, so did the programs offered by Homes for the Brave. In 2003, it opened its Vocational Program to meet the employment and educational needs of its Veterans.
In 2011, the organization opened the Madaras House —the first and still the only of its kind in Connecticut—dedicated to female Veterans experiencing homelessness and their young children.
In mid-2022, Homes for the Brave opened an Annex in downtown Bridgeport, which has expanded the Service Center, Clinical Program, and Vocational Program. Staff at the Annex are available to help all Veterans in the Bridgeport area on a drop-in basis. In addition, our Clinical Program will be able to expand its services to provide treatment to more Veterans and to their families for the first time.
Today, ABRI/Homes for the Brave has served over 1,700 men, women, and children, offering housing, clinical services, vocational training, life skills coaching, and other supportive services. With the continued support of its partners and community, Homes for the Brave remains committed to providing Veterans with the resources they need to achieve lasting independence.
FLM: WHAT CORE VALUES DRIVE HOMES FOR THE BRAVE AND HAS
ITS
MISSION EVOLVED OVER TIME?
HFTB: Homes for the Brave is driven by a set of core values that reflect its deep commitment to supporting Veterans experiencing homelessness. At the heart of the organization is compassion, ensuring that every Veteran is treated with empathy, dignity, and respect. Homes for the Brave recognizes the unique challenges Veterans face when transitioning back to civilian life and offers not only housing but also the emotional and practical support necessary to rebuild their lives.
Empowerment is another key value that fuels the organization’s mission. Homes for the Brave helps Veterans regain their independence and confidence. The organization is dedicated to giving each individual the tools they need to overcome obstacles and achieve long-term stability. In addition, collaboration plays a vital role in its success, as partnerships with government agencies, community organizations, and supporters enable Homes for the Brave to maximize resources and provide comprehensive services to those in need.
CEO and Executive Director, Vincent Santilli
Moises Ortega, Ed Bellows, Emmy Vargas, Alexis Carroll and Mea Allbert
“EMPOWERMENT IS ANOTHER KEY VALUE THAT FUELS THE ORGANIZATION’S MISSION.”
Above all, Homes for the Brave operates with integrity, ensuring transparency and accountability in all its efforts. Since its founding, the organization’s mission has remained steadfast: to honor the service of Veterans by offering impactful, high-quality programs that improve their quality of life and provide a path to permanent housing solutions and lasting independence. By upholding these core values, Homes for the Brave continues to make a meaningful difference in the lives of the Veterans it serves.
FLM: THE IMPACT HOMES FOR THE BRAVE CONTINUES TO MAKE IS INCREDIBLE. WHAT HAS BEEN THE MOST REWARDING?
HFTB: It is truly inspiring to witness the transformation Veterans experience while utilizing the programs and services at Homes for the Brave. Many arrive burdened by the weight of their circumstances, but through the support they receive—whether it’s housing, vocational training, or life skills coaching— remarkable changes begin to unfold. As they gain stability, confidence, and the tools they need to succeed, it’s not just their living situation that improves; their entire sense of self is uplifted. They move from a place of uncertainty to one of hope, equipped with the skills necessary to rebuild their lives.
CONTINUED >
bricks featured at Homes for
Brave’s headquarters.
The Annex
FLM: HOW CAN THE COMMUNITY GET INVOLVED? ARE THERE ANY UPCOMING FUNDRAISING EVENTS OR INITIATIVES?
HFTB: To sustain its world-class programs and services, Homes for the Brave relies on private grants, numerous fundraising events, and the incredible generosity of its supporters. They are excited to invite readers to support their mission and create a lasting legacy by purchasing an engraved commemorative brick for the new plaza at their Park Avenue headquarters.
Join Homes for the Brave for upcoming events this fall, including the 5th Annual Veteran’s Kick-a-Thon on November 7th and the 8th Annual Mini-Golf Tournament on November 22nd, which features an indoor round of mini-golf followed by a delicious surf and turf dinner.
Financial donations are crucial for continuing Homes for the Brave’s mission. Additionally, you can support Homes for the Brave by donating goods, volunteering, or attending and sponsoring their fundraising events. For complete information on how to support Homes for the Brave, please visit www.homesforthebrave.org
Madras House for Women
PICTURE PERFECT
How a Blended Family Built a Thriving
Photo Booth Business Together
ARTICLE BY SAMANTHA SCHOENGOLD BERANBOM
PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED BY ESSKAY FOUR PHOTO BOOTH CO.
Great businesses usually start with a great story. As Ken tells it, after meeting Samantha at a parent-teacher conference, she was like a song he couldn’t get out of his head. He was “smitten”.
As fate would have it, they met again a few months later at a high school football game. The deal was sealed. They were engaged and married shortly after. Ken and Samantha note that a highlight of their wedding was the photo booth they had for their guests. “Our friends and family still talk about the photo booth to this day. We remember how important that day was to us and are so thankful for all the people working behind the scenes to ensure the event went off without a hitch,” Samantha explains. From romance and celebration, a business was born.
Esskay Four Photo Booth Co. is a family-owned and operated business that came to fruition during the pandemic. Merging their desire to build something for their children, Ken and Samantha wanted to model a strong work ethic while instilling in them all the skills needed to become a successful, community-minded adult. Samantha elaborates, “Because this business was to be run by the family and for the family, we named it Esskay Four, the phonetic word for SK4. S representing Samantha, and K to the 4th power for the 4 Ks - Kennie and our three children; Kiara, Kenneth Jr. (KJ), and Kaleb.” This loving family affair quickly grew when, shortly after launch, Kiara and KJ’s mother, Shareka, and her husband, Shaun, decided
Back row - Shaun, Lauryn, Kennie, Kaleb Front row - Shareka, Kiara, Samantha
to join the company. A true blended business. Says Ken, “Although we were all very close before Esskay Four, we have found that working together towards a common goal has strengthened our bond. We truly love working with each other and have found that our strengths complement each other in a way that makes our business successful.”
Esskay Four Photo Booth Co. provides premium, reliable services for all celebrations, including weddings, birthdays, corporate events, fundraisers, community parties and more. Their state-of-the-art booths are cutting-edge, utilizing the latest technology and trends to enhance each guest’s experience. They can instantly share photos, create boomerangs/GIFS, and save all images to a live gallery where the client and guests can access all of the captures. Customers can also customize photo overlays and use glam features and other filters for more polished-looking photos. They recently added an in-house photographer to their staff to offer a holistic option for each event. The crew works closely with their clients to provide customized details that compliment the overall look and vibe of the event by working in elevated design elements. “Clients have really started to enhance their backdrops, with either balloons, flowers and greenery, neon signs, or even marquee numbers or letters. It often serves two purposes: a backdrop for the photos and decor for the event.”
The Esskay Four crew truly loves what they do. ““We have met so many amazing people between our clients and other vendors.” It has been fulfilling to share in their client’s events and help make their day memorable. Their personal touch, attention to detail and care for their customers are what make working with Esskay Four Photo Co. truly a special occasion.
esskayfourphoto.com
A recent addition to the crew, Photographer, Brandon Shareka and Shaun
“WE HAVE MET SO MANY AMAZING PEOPLE BETWEEN OUR CLIENTS AND OTHER VENDORS.”
Kennie, Samantha and Kaleb
Lauryn and Kaleb
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What’s New At The Quick Center
Backstage Buzz
ARTICLE BY SAMANTHA SCHOENGOLD BERANBOM PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED BY REGINA A. QUICK CENTER FOR THE ARTS
Lori N. Jones, Director of Programming and Operations
As another exciting fall season at The Quick is underway, the recent appointment of Lori N. Jones as Director of Programming and Operations is adding to the buzz. Since 2013, Lori has been an integral part of the Quick Center for the Arts, “Over the last 11 years, my roles have changed significantly but at the heart of the work, what matters most is that we are creating space for meaningful dialogue and experiences between our audiences, artists, and speakers,” says Lori. With the support of Fairfield University, the Quick Center for the Arts will continue to thrive and expand what it offers its audiences. They look forward to serving those looking for the best in arts and culture on a national scale, and to broaden who they serve. Fairfield University has begun a new initiative to ensure it is a destination for arts and culture that partners with the local community. Over the next two years, under Lori’s expert eye, the Quick Center for the Arts will update the lobby and bar experience to ensure patrons can come early and settle into a great evening. Audiences will see more improvements in the Quick Center building and expanded programming, new ways to experience incredible exhibitions for free at the Fairfield University Art Museum, and the opening of the Center for Arts & Minds in downtown Fairfield.
In addition, in alignment with the University, Lori is passionate about ensuring everyone has access to the arts. A cornerstone of The Quick will be to broaden and expand more of its educational programs that serve all ages. Through the Arts for All program, more than 3,000 K-12th grade students throughout Fairfield County enjoy free access to professional artists. Lori adds, “And even better, the arts throughout our campus will continue to elevate for all to enjoy. I am incredibly grateful for the support of our community members who attend, join as members, and donate to ensure the Quick can keep making these memories.”
REGINA A. QUICK CENTER FOR
THE
ARTS 1073 N Benson Rd, Fairfield, CT 06824
https://quickcenter.fairfield.edu/
Lori at work
Regional Center for the Arts students in workshop with Gregory Maqoma and Thuthuka Sibisi
Baye & Asa
NOVEMBER EVENTS
Open VISIONS Forum | History Department Annual Lecture
Douglas Brinkley
“Highs and Lows of the American Presidency: Past, Present, Future”
Friday, November 1 | 3 PM
Monumental in his contribution to American culture, author and professor, Douglas Brinkley, takes the historical lessons of the past and applies them to the present and our future.
The Katherine and Howard Aibel Memorial Concert presented with the Lungberg Family Foundation
Owls
Sunday, November 3 | 3 PM
While weaving together new compositions with original arrangements of music ranging from the 1600s to the present, Owls’ distinctive instrumentation allows them access to beautiful and exhilarating performance experience.
Open VISIONS Forum | Egan School of Nursing and Health Studies
Sandro Galea, MD, MPH, DrPH
“Our Shared Health: Aspiring Toward Better health for All in the Coming Decades”
Thursday, November 7 | 5 PM
Dr. Sandro Galea, a physician, epidemiologist, and author, is dean of the Boston University School of Public Health. He will discuss his work in public health and the contract we have with each other to create health for all.
Baye & Asa
4|2|3
Wednesday, November 13, 2024 | 7:30 PM
Selected in 2022 as one of Dance Magazine’s “25 to Watch,” Baye & Asa is a company creating movement art projects including 4|2|3 which examines the intergenerational cooperation necessary to acknowledge the existential crisis of climate change.
The 27th Annual Jacoby-Lunin Humanitarian Lecture in affiliation with the Carl and Dorothy Bennett Center for Judaic Studies
Open VISIONS Forum
Mark Ludwig
“The Terezin Project”
Thursday, November 14 | 7:30 PM
Mark Ludwig is a Boston Symphony Orchestra member emeritus who blends his musical career with social causes promoting tolerance. He founded the Terezín Music Foundation in 1991, a nonprofit dedicated to amplifying the musical legacy of the artists imprisoned in Terezín (Theresienstadt).
MARK YOUR CALENDAR!
2ND ANNUAL SPRING SOIREE
Michael Feinstein
Because of You: A tribute to Tony Bennett featuring the Carnegie Hall Ensemble
Sunday, April 6 | 7 PM.
In this celebratory gala evening, Michael Feinstein – the ambassador of the Great American Songbook – pays a heartfelt tribute to the legendary Tony Bennett, bringing his iconic songs to life through dynamic interpretations that honor the legacy of Bennett in all its glory.
Get ready for the Spring Soiree featuring Michael Feinstein Owls
Preserving Memories on the Minds of one Fairfield Couple
ARTICLE BY KRISTEN CUSATO, ALZHEIMER’S ASSOCIATION, CONNECTICUT CHAPTER PHOTOGRAPHY BY DARIUSZ TEREPKA PHOTOGRAPHY
Twice a week, at 6:30 in the morning, Fred Schaefer and other Fairfield history buffs head to the historic Greenfield Hill Cemetery to pull weeds and clean gravestones – some of those are stones from the Revolutionary and Civil Wars. Fred takes great pride in his hobby of preserving memories for others, as a brain disease threatens to take his own memories. The 72-year-old was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s in early 2024. He and his wife Beth, who are long-time Greenfield Hill/Fairfield residents, are navigating this journey together.
“I started noticing lapses in his memory several years ago,” Beth says. ”He was repeating things over and over and forgetting to drive to a birthday party when the gift was right on the front seat of the car. He is now losing his ability to think through things and solve problems.”
“You don’t even realize the toll it’s taking on you some of the time. It’s nasty in that regard because it affects so many parts of your life. Memory was so important to everything I did.” Fred says.
Fred is one of 80 thousand people in Connecticut living with Alzheimer’s disease and Beth is one of more than 100 thousand dementia caregivers, many of whom are unpaid family members. The diagnosing doctor at Yale Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center (ADRC) connected them with the Connecticut Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association, which offers care and support to families all over the state.
Beth says she got resources quickly during a conversation with Jen, a dementia care consultant at the Association. “You have to have experts, you need to put together your team of family and friends and Jen is a key member of the team. It is priceless to have that. I do not have the answers, but I have the people who can help me get the answers.”
Figuring out how to communicate when your loved one is having a hard time, going into their reality because they can no longer join you in yours, and having patience are critical skills for caregivers to learn. Beth is also learning that she needs to take care of herself as her husband’s health changes. This next chapter is about being “less wired”, she says, knitting and doing jigsaw puzzles to calm her mind, and working with a personal trainer. They are also thinking about where they will live when Fred needs more care.
Fred shares his frustration with this disease, “It’s a giant gut punch, you can’t tell sometimes when you’re deteriorating. I just don’t know how to react.”
“I have accepted that this is what it is. It is still scary, what I need to do is not my natural way of being,” Beth says. “I know the resources are out there, I am going to figure out the best way to cope and make it as pleasant as possible.”
Sometimes Beth and Fred take sandwiches to the same Fairfield cemetery Fred visits with his friends to clean. The married couple sits, has lunch and creates more memories, while holding onto theirs as long as they can.
November is Caregiver Month, a time to honor caregivers and focus on caring for yourself if you are a caregiver. The Alzheimer’s Association was started in 1980 by a group of caregivers and has grown to an organization with more than 70 chapters across the country, serving the 7 million Americans living with Alzheimer’s. The Alzheimer’s Association leads the way to end Alzheimer’s and all other dementia — by accelerating global research, driving risk reduction and early detection, and maximizing quality care and support. In Fairfield County, we have in person support groups in Ridgefield, Stratford, Bridgeport, Shelton and Milford. We offer Virtual Caregiver Support Groups in Westport, Stamford, Greater Milford/Orange. Please go to alz.org/crf or call 1-800-272-3900 to find a group that works for your schedule. The Association also offers programs for those in the early stages of dementia, including talks at the Fairfield Museum, tours of the Aldridge in Ridgefield, trolley rides and picnics.
You can help other families in our state by donating to the Connecticut Chapter at alz.org/ct. Money raised helps operate the 24/7 Helpline 1-800-2723900, which you can call with any questions about dementia at any time. The Chapter also has robust advocacy efforts where people tell their stories to lawmakers on the state and national level to create change. The Walk to End Alzheimer’s, The Longest Day and the Celebrating Hope gala in Fairfield County are just some of the ways the Chapter raises funds to serve people living with dementia, their caregivers and those concerned about their brain health.
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giving dip -
ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD I PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
Fall is synonymous with gathering with friends and family and enjoying time together. Whether it is for Thanksgiving, a football watch party or a simple fall gathering, these easy appetizer dips are the perfect shareable snack to share.
fig & honey brie
The perfect cheesy fall dip that is both savory and sweet. The chopped pecans add a subtle crunch that makes this irresistible.
ingredients:
• 8 ounce brie wheel
• 1/3 cup fig spread or jam
• ¼ cup pecans
• 2 teaspoons honey
• 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, chopped
• 1 teaspoon fresh parsley
directions: Place brie in a baking dish. Spread the fig spread on top of brie and sprinkle with chopped pecans. Drizzle with honey. Add fresh herbs, and bake at 350 degrees for 20 minutes. Serve with pita chips or crackers.
garlic herb
feta dip
This savory dip is quick and easy to assemble and is perfect to serve with fresh veggies or crackers of any kind.
ingredients:
• ½ cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1 whole garlic bulb, roasted
• 1 ¼ cup feta cheese
• 3 teaspoons olive oil
• 1 Tablespoon lemon juice
• ½ teaspoon dill
• 1 teaspoon parsley
• Salt and pepper to taste
directions:
First, cut the head off of the top of the garlic bulb, and drizzle olive oil on top. Wrap in foil, and place it in an oven heated to 425 degrees. Roast for 30 minutes or until soft. Squeeze roasted garlic into a bowl, and set aside. Next, add the yogurt, feta, lemon juice, salt, pepper and water in a blender and lightly blend. Add the roasted garlic and blend until smooth. Transfer to a serving dish and sprinkle with fresh herbs. Serve with crackers or fresh vegetables. Enjoy!
ingredients:
• 8 ounces softened cream cheese
• 1 can pumpkin puree
• ¾ cup brown sugar
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• 1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice
directions: Place cream cheese in a microwave safe bowl, and soften for 30 seconds. Add brown sugar and blend with a hand mixer until smooth. Add in pumpkin and blend until combined. Mix in heavy whipping cream and mix on high for 2 minutes. Next, stir in pumpkin pie spice. Serve with sliced apples, pretzels, graham crackers or vanilla wafers.
creamy pumpkin cheesecake dip
Nothing screams fall quite like the flavor of pumpkin. This lightly sweet dip takes just a few minutes to make and is perfect for any fall get-together.
NOVEMBER 2ND
Hole-In-One Fore Hunger
Carl Dickman Par 3 | 9:00 AM
Open to all ages. All food items will be donated to Operation Hope. One shot per person. Bring your own club and ball along with 5 non perishables. Amateurs only. Registration is required. Visit fairfieldrecreation.com
NOVEMBER 2ND
Park City Presents 2nd Annual "Fun"raiser
Park City Music Hall | 8:00 PM
Enjoy a high-energy dance party for a cause with DJ Laki performing your favorite early 2000s hits with the incredible Tommy Weeks on sax! Grab your friends and party like it’s just after 1999! Benefiting Park City Presents and the mission of bringing Music Tech Ed to Bridgeport youth. General Admission and VIP Tickets available. parkcitymusichall.com/events
NOVEMBER 5TH
Fairfield Chamber Coffee Connect: Sacred Heart University
Sacred Heart University | 8:00 AM
Wake up with the Chamber Members over a cup of joe to start your day! Bring a friend and network or just learn about new and existing businesses in the area. Make new friend and business contacts. $15 for Non-Members. Register online at fairfieldctchamber.com
NOVEMBER 7TH
PopShop Presents: Sip & Shop - A Perfect Girls' Night Out!
Elicit Brewery | 5:00 PM
Enjoy an exclusive evening of shopping tailored just for you. Leave the kids at home and enjoy a hassle-free night out with your friends! Shop from a curated selection of fabulous vendors. This is the ultimate girls' night out—shopping, sipping, and socializing in a relaxed and fun atmosphere. Don’t miss this exclusive event! Follow @popshopmarket or visit popshopmarketct.com for more info
NOVEMBER 22ND-23RD
Holiday Pop-Up Market
Fairfield Museum & History Center | 4:00 PM - 7:00 PM & 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
The 10th annual Holiday Pop-Up Market! Kick-off to the holiday season at this festive market of gifts. There is a $5 suggested donation and enter to win a gift bag of items from the Museum shop, including a one-year family membership to the Museum. For more information visit fairfieldhistory.org. Friday, November 22nd 4PM – 7PM & Saturday, November 23rd 10AM – 4PM
NOVEMBER 23RD
Laurie Berkner Live!
SHU Community Theatre | 11:00 AM & 3:00 PM
A live, solo concert performance by Laurie Berkner! Laurie’s Holiday concerts are a mix of winter holiday songs and Laurie Berkner hits –plus some well-loved songs rarely played in concert. Bring a stuffed animal for your head and wear a costume! A $1 donation will be added to tickets to benefit local nonprofit, Operation Hope of Fairfield. shucommunitytheatre.org
Soccer Shots is an engaging children’s soccer program focusing on character development. We aim to impact children’s lives on and off the field through our bestin-class coaching, communication, and curriculum!
