A Season of Gratitude
Photo Credit: Sydney Sheehan
Letter from Marty & Laurie
Happy Holidays!
As 2024 comes to a close, we celebrate another year of Stamford City Lifestyle. We met some amazing new people living their best life. We revisited some of Stamford's finest people, businesses and organizations. Stamford is such a vibrant community!
We are diverse. We are creative. We are thoughtful and generous. We are a mixture of born and raised here along with many newbies who have chosen to call Stamford home. It is the blending of ideas, cultures and lifestyles that establish a city that is constantly evolving and growing. How fortunate we are to live in such a spectacular location! We have forests, lakes, rivers and beaches along with entertainment, multi-cultured dining, activities, education and art.
Every day is a good day for gratitude but somehow it feels stronger in December. We have a solstice and our most festive holidays. It's a time for gift giving, donating and sharing laughter. Please consider a donation to one of the three highlighted organizations supporting kids. Or, consider a donation to Curtain Call. Curtain Call was the beginning of the road to Broadway for Dan Micciche - our cover story.
Thank you for reading our magazine, supporting our advertisers and especially to those who advertise. Several of the SCL family share their favorite holiday gift ideas. We hope you enjoy the suggestions. We continue to build a strong team dedicated to bringing you the best of Stamford.
All of us here at SCL, wish you and yours a very happy and healthy holiday season.
Marty & Laurie and the SCL Team
MARTY SHAPIRO, PUBLISHER
LAURIE A. GUZDA , EDITOR
@STAMFORDCITYLIFESTYLEMAGAZINE
December 2024
PUBLISHER
Marty Shapiro | Marty.Shapiro@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Laurie A. Guzda | laurie.guzda@citylifestyle.com
SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR
Eva Glassman
AREA COORDINATOR
PJ Kennedy
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Sarah Bamford, LA Guzda, Marty Shapiro, PJ Kennedy
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Michael Hull, LA Guzda, PJ Kennedy, Jay Cohen
Corporate Team
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Mary Albers
LAYOUT DESIGNER Kirstan Lanier
Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com/franchise.
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city scene
1: Bank Street Events hosted One Tough Cookie for an unforgettable Mardi Gras theme Fundraising Event 2: A great turnout for the One Tough Cookie event. 3-5: Hundreds of walkers and runners gathered for the Stamford Public Education Foundation (SPEF) 5k. 6: The Palace’s Annual Fundraising Gala. 7: Mayor Simmons, Jodi Gutierrez and Mike Moran at The Palace’s annual fundraising Gala.
MIKE SQUIRES
PJ KENNEDY
ANGELA STRASSHEIM
ANGELA STRASSHEIM
MIKE SQUIRES
1: Marissa Shapiro and Scott Jones visited from London and played at Pickleball America. 2: America’s First Network Credit Union presented SM&NC with a $2,500 donation. 3: The annual That’s Amore Festival in Mill River Park.
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One Tough Cookie Event, Hosted By Nikki Glekas Collective
Nikki Glekas Collective recently hosted a One Tough Cookie event at their downtown location, Bank Street Events. The Bright Lips Bold Earring fundraiser was Mardi Gras themed and included everything from beaded necklaces and shark attack cocktails to a fashion show walked by those supported through One Tough Cookie’s community. The event raised money to provide women who have lost their hair due to cancer treatments with beautiful lip colors and bold earrings. nikkiglekascollective.com
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Delight Med Spa
Delight MedSpa and Laser Clinic at 1100 Bedford Street (across from the Fish Church) delivers effective and transformative results in the world of hair removal – be it via laser treatment or waxing. Delight MedSpa provides meticulous care in a comfortable setting with the use of a state-of-the-art laser machine, which is virtually pain free and delivers visible results immediately after the first treatment. Open seven days a week. Call (347) 217-7596 for an appointment.
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Diamond Sun Supplements
Diamond Sun Supplements combines wellness and spirituality to offer transformative wellness. Their flagship product, PF5, is a natural detox supplement designed to decalcify the pineal gland, replenish melatonin, and enhance mental clarity. PF5 promotes deep, restorative sleep, relieves stress, and supports brain function. By detoxifying the body and balancing hormones, PF5 helps you feel energized, present, and connected to your inner potential—unlocking a vibrant life of health and vitality.
Corey P. Paris
State Representative/Chief impact officer, P2P
WHAT ARE YOU THANKFUL FOR THIS YEAR?
I’m thankful for the incredible people in my life who inspire me daily. Whether it’s my family, my friends, or my colleagues, I am surrounded by individuals who push me to be better and remind me of the importance of community and service. I’m also grateful for the opportunity to represent my community and make a tangible impact through my work.
WHAT DO YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT STAMFORD?
Stamford has this unique blend of smalltown charm and big-city energy that I absolutely love. The community is vibrant, diverse, and always ready to come together to support one another. Whether it’s through local events, volunteer opportunities, or just a friendly conversation at a coffee shop, Stamford feels like home because of the people who live here and their unwavering spirit of collaboration and kindness.
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE QUOTE OR ADVICE?
One of my favorite quotes is from Bobby Kennedy: “Each time a man stands up for an ideal, or acts to improve the lot of others, or strikes out against injustice, he sends forth a tiny ripple of hope.” This quote inspires me because it reminds me of the power we each have to make a difference. Even small actions can create a ripple effect that leads to significant change in our communities and beyond.
Corey P. Paris is a dedicated public servant and the State Representative for Connecticut’s 145th District, as well as the Chief Impact Officer at Person to Person (P2P), a nonprofit organization that provides essential services and resources to families in need. Corey’s work is driven by a passion for community building and social equity, and he is committed to creating meaningful change both in Stamford and across Connecticut.
ARTICLE BY SARAH BAMFORD
PHOTOGRAPHY BY
BRIAN O’CONNOR
holiday donations Giving Back
KIDS
Al Koproski, National President
Polish National Youth Baseball Foundation
Recycle your old softball & baseball equipment. America’s favorite pastime has reached the underprivileged boys and girls of Poland and Central Europe. Hundreds of boys and girls would love to play the games of baseball and softball, but they lack the equipment to play the sport.
Please donate your used equipment, your old gloves, balls, bats, uniforms, etc. You can do it as a group, team or individual. Call Al Koproski at 203-323-9944, or email patkoproski@gmail.com. You may drop off items at The Knights of Columbus, 507 Shippan Ave., Bobby Valentines in Largo Park, or Clarks Trophy’s at 20 Acosta Street.
The children thank you!
POLISH NATIONAL YOUTH BASEBALL FOUNDATION
Al Koproski, National President A 501(c) (3) non-profit organization.
“Hundreds of children would love to play Baseball but lack the equipment.”
Clothes to Kids started providing new and quality used clothing to low-income or in-crisis school age children free of charge in 2002 in Florida. In 2015, Stamford’s Elaine Rubinson was emotionally captured by testimonials she heard and the “template of the organization”. Elaine saw a need for this service in Fairfield County and began the Clothes to Kids of Fairfield County (CTKF) chapter in 2016. Based in the South end of Stamford in the Lathon Wider Community Center, CTKF envisions a community in which every school age child has quality clothing so they may attend school with the confidence and self-esteem needed to achieve academic success.
Clothes To Kids of Fairfield County is a 100% volunteer-operated nonprofit organization that depends on the generosity of individuals and businesses for financial support and donations of clothing and shoes. The CTKF Store is a boutique-style setting where children work with a personal shopper to choose clothing that is seasonal and ranges from coats to casual wear to undergarments to shoes. Each eligible child in grades K-12 can shop twice a year for a full week’s wardrobe of school clothing. The goal is to provide children with clothing that makes them feel good about themselves.
If you would like to volunteer, donate clothing or if you want to recommend a family in need of this service, visit clothestokids fairfieldcounty.org .
Clothes To Kids of Fairfield County
“The goal is to provide children with clothing that makes them feel good about themselves.”
Clothes to Kids
When three-year-old Magnolia Tesler was diagnosed with a rare disease, her parents, Stamford’s AJ Tesler and Jenny Tesler, didn’t know what to do. An ordinary and healthy baby, she was crawling, talking, and hitting all her milestones. But around the age of two, she started developing mysterious symptoms: balance issues, hand wringing, speech loss, and rocking for hours in her crib. She was diagnosed with Rett Syndrome.
Imagine the symptoms of Autism, Cerebral Palsy, Parkinson’s, Epilepsy and Anxiety Disorder… all in one little girl.
Rett Syndrome is a serious lifelong neurological disorder that is caused by random mutations in a gene called MECP2 . Diagnosed almost exclusively in girls, symptoms typically appear in toddlerhood. Many children with Rett are unable to speak, walk or use their hands. Breathing problems, feeding tubes, seizures, anxiety, gastrointestinal and orthopedic issues are common.
There are 350,000 people in the world suffering from Rett Syndrome. In America there are over 30 million people living with a rare disease. Many of those people struggled to get a diagnosis and then grapple with the hopelessness of a rare disease diagnosis. They feel alone, isolated, and their worlds get increasingly smaller as friends and family struggle to connect with them or understand what their day to day life is truly like.
In 2007 a science paper authored by Adrian Bird, PhD shocked the scientific community and parents alike. No one expected the symptoms of Rett to be dramatically reversible, especially in late stage disease. This landmark discovery puts Rett Syndrome into a unique position among neurological disorders and has fueled the remarkable portfolio of therapeutic approaches currently being pursued.
A donation supports important research by The Rett Syndrome Research Trust. magnoliashope.com
“They thought they would teach their daughter about the world. Instead they had to teach the world about their daughter.”
Jenny & Maggie Tesler of Magnolia's Hope
Our Favorite Things
THE SCL TEAM SHARES HOLIDAY GIFT IDEAS
Jacqui Justice
A coffee subscription is the gift that keeps on giving! Last Christmas, my son surprised me with one, and I’ve been enjoying delicious blends from around the globe ever since! #mymorningcupofhappiness
My “must-have” gift right now is sock yarn! I’m a novice knitter and currently on a sock-knitting kick. A couple balls of yarn probably isn’t an exciting gift for most people... but it is for me!
Pologeorgis fold-over mittens are lined with luxurious Shearling lamb for warmth and include a button detail that secures a flap for easy texting. Available at Pologeorgis Greenwich or online ( pologeorgis.com).
For creatives, a film camera is a fantastic gift. The nostalgic look of film photos can’t be mimicked by digital images and the anticipation of receiving prints is a remedy for our obsession with instant gratification.
Hey music lovers ... Remember the days when album covers were “art”? Why not jazz up your home, apartment, office or man cave by displaying album covers of your favorite music artists in frames.
Jay Cohen
Marty Shapiro
Eva Glassman
Sarah Bamford
WICKEDLY TALENTED
ARTICLE BY LAURIE A. GUZDA
Meet Dan Micciche, the Musical Director of one of America’s favorite, long-running, Broadway shows – WICKED. If you haven’t seen it, then maybe this is a great gift for yourself and someone special this holiday season. If it’s been awhile, maybe it’s time to see it again. For me, the second time was
Meet Broadway’s Dan Micciche
“Things happen when preparation is met with opportunity.”
even better than the first. I cried as I listened to .... because I knew you, I’ve been changed. It’s one of the most beautiful songs but watching Dan conduct touched me deeply.
I first met Dan when he was about ten years old. He came to Summer Stock at Curtain Call. I believe his first role was in Mame. I then cast him in Summer Youth Theater’s (SYT) production of Annie as one of the President’s cabinet members. He made the role his own and never stopped delighting audiences since.
I often said that Dan was truly one of the most talented kids to come through Curtain Call. He could act, sing, dance and musical direct (at age twelve). Now, thirty years later, and with the movie release of
“Wicked” this month, this seemed a good time to sit down and talk with Dan.
WHAT SHOULD PEOPLE KNOW ABOUT YOU?
I grew up in Darien CT, lived most of my life growing up in Stamford at Curtain Call where all of my best friends since 1994 and on, are still my best friends - more like family. I’ve worked on Broadway for 16 years and have performed all around the world including 125 cities in the US. I am one of the only music directors in Broadway history that has played a principal on Broadway as an actor and who is also a music director/ conductor on Broadway.
Michael Hull Photography
Top: Sebastian, Chase, Dan & Harry.
Bottom: SYT’s “Annie” Amanda D’Onofrio, Josh Sette, Lauren Hubbard and Dan
I performed solo at Carnegie Hall and The Kennedy Center singing solo in Bernstein’s MASS which earned him a Grammy Nom in 2008 on NAXOS. I have taught at over 20 different universities, colleges and conservatories. I am a conversationalist on Seabourn Cruises. I am the COO of a production company: Hit It Productions, Inc. - specializing in Bringing Broadway Stars to people’s homes, events, clubs, and resorts for curated evenings of music. I have a vocal coaching studio as well as co-own IMTA (International Music Theatre Academy).
I currently live in Ridgefield CT with my husband, Chase Hall, our son, Sebastian, and our dog Henry.
WHO ARE YOUR BIGGEST INFLUENCES?
My parents, they introduced me to dance and music at an early age as well as being proactive in having me dream big ever since I was born. My husband Chase and our son Sebastian influence me every day. They teach me the depth and power of love. My Broadway influences include: Jerry Herman, Carol Channing, Liza Minnelli, Sondheim, Cathy Rand and my friends. My friends have always influenced me as a performer and a person.
SIGNIFICANT MOMENT(S) IN YOUR CAREER?
A significant moment was my debut on Broadway as a principal in CHICAGO the musical at 22 years old. Also, my debut solo at Carnegie Hall and The Kennedy Center. And, of course, the moment I assumed the role as music director/ conductor of WICKED on Broadway. I would have
“I love the intimacy of bringing the best and brightest on Broadway into your living room. It’s up-close and personal. Sharing music, food and laughter… what’s better than that?”
to add that teaching and coaching actors I’ve idolized my entire life is pretty significant; along with nurturing young talent. It is a privilege.
BEST ADVICE YOU’VE EVER RECEIVED?
Things happen when preparation is met with opportunity.
FAVORITE PLAY? MUSICAL?
Side Show (1997- Side Show is a musical by Bill Russell (book and lyrics) and Henry Krieger (music) based on the lives of Daisy and Violet Hilton, conjoined twins who became famous stage performers in the 1930s.)
WHAT DO YOU DO “OFF-BROADWAY”?
My favorite thing is to be at home in CT with my husband, son, friends & neighbors. I make my own maple syrup from the sugar maple trees in my yard. I love my herb garden and cooking (currently working my way through Julia Child’s cookbooks). I love throwing dinner parties.
WHAT’S NEXT?
I have a full plate with WICKED and my family but I am passionate about Hit It Productions. I love the intimacy of bringing the best and brightest on Broadway into your living room. It’s up-close and personal. Sharing music, food and laughter… what’s better than that?
MAKING SPIRITS BRIGHT
PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE
JONES
The Naughty List
INGREDIENTS
• Bronson’s Original Punch 2oz
• Laird’s Applejack 1oz
• El Guapo Creole Orgeat .50oz
• El Guapo Holiday Bitters 6 dashes
• Cranberry Juice 2oz.
INSTRUCTIONS
1. Combine all ingredients, shake vigorously and pour over crushed ice.
2. Garnish with lemon wheel & cranberries.
Making Spirits
JOIN OUR MISSION TO SPREAD WARMTH AND COMPASSION BY NOMINATING SOMEONE WHO DESERVES A CHRISTMAS BLESSING
“We believe in giving back and serving the communities where we live in a real and tangible way.”
As the Christmas season approaches, we’re reminded of the power of community and kindness. This year, through City Lifestyle’s nonprofit, The Kingdom Building Foundation, we will help people who may be struggling quietly without the support they need. But we need your help to find them.
Over the past three years, this campaign has grown into something truly beautiful, touching the lives of more than 150 families nationwide last year alone. Each year, we’ve seen firsthand how generosity can bring relief, hope, and a renewed sense of faith in others.
One person we had the opportunity to help was an 11-year-old boy diagnosed with a rare eye cancer. After he had to undergo chemotherapy and surgery to remove his eye, his doctors recommended a prosthetic one, but insurance wouldn’t cover the cost, calling it “cosmetic.” When we heard his story, we knew we had to help. Because of this campaign, he got his prosthetic eye and a piece of his childhood back with it.
Another was a wife and mother of two who fought a yearlong health battle and was diagnosed with a brain tumor. Just days before Christmas, she underwent surgery but passed away due to complications. Before her surgery, she received one of our cards and, in tears, told us this gift gave her some peace, knowing her family would have help in the difficult times ahead. It wasn’t just about the financial support but knowing that someone cared.
These stories remind us why this campaign is so meaningful. It’s not just
about writing checks; it’s about telling people they aren’t forgotten and that someone is there to lend a hand. It’s about giving families a moment of relief when the world feels unbearable.
“We believe in giving back and serving the communities where we live in a real and tangible way,” says Steven Schowengerdt, CEO and founder of City Lifestyle. “This Giving Campaign is about personally impacting the lives of people we know with an unexpected check in the mail just to say that someone thought of them this holiday season.”
Together with Matthew Perry, President, Steven adds that the gratitude from recipients was overwhelming, affirming this tradition’s importance. “We believe God has blessed our company with success,” Matthew adds, “so we want to be a blessing to others.”
We know many more people could use a little help this Christmas, and that’s where you come in. Do you know someone who could use a blessing? We want to hear about them.
To nominate someone, scan the QR code or follow @CityLifestyle on Instagram, where you’ll find the form in our bio. Nominations are open from November 27 to December 10, 2024. Let’s bring hope to those who need it most.
The City Lifestyle Giving Campaign is completely confidential. No identities will be revealed or publicized. All entries will be read, and selections and the amount given to each recipient will be based on the severity of the need. For more information, visit KingdomBuildingFoundation.com
Holiday Market Sip Shop
THURSDAY
Enjoy complimentary champagne and gingerbread cookies while you peruse artisan gifts & products from 20+ local vendors. No registration or admission fee needed, just drop in!
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
DECEMBER 5TH
Holiday Market Sip & Shop
Stamford Museum & Nature Center 5:00 PM
Peruse gifts and products from 20+ vendors, including hand knits, geodes & minerals, clothing, jewelry, candles, paper & stationery, home décor, crafted wooden goods, wellness items, and more. Enjoy complimentary champagne and gingerbread cookies while you shop — we’ll even have toasty hot adult beverages available to purchase in support of the SM&NC!
DECEMBER 5TH
Bartlett Book Club
Bartlett Arboretum & Gardens 151 Brookdale Road, Stamford, CT 06903 6:00 PM
Join us on Thursday, December 5th, for the inaugural meeting of the Bartlett Book Club! Our first book is Braiding Sweetgrass by Robin Wall Kimmerer. The Bartlett Arboretum Book Club is a bimonthly program that brings readers and nature lovers together in one place.
DECEMBER 7TH
SantaCon Stamford
Stamford Downtown
For ages 21+. This SantaCon event is completely FREE to attend - no tickets or registration. Visit them on FB for details. @StamfordSantaCom
DECEMBER 8TH
Heights & Lights
Landmark Square & Latham Park 5:00 PM
From 22 stories high above Stamford Downtown, watch and cheer for Santa Claus, Rudolph, Grinch and friends
as they make their daredevil descent, twisting and flying from the top of one of Stamford’s tallest buildings, Landmark Square followed by a festive fireworks show. After the rappel Santa and friends will march up Bedford Street to Latham Park for holiday music and the lighting of Stamford’s Holiday Tree.
DECEMBER 11TH
Origami Hour: Fold & Sip
Ferguson Library - Harry Bennett Branch 115 Vine Road, Stamford, CT
6:00 PM
Learn how to make your own origami, the ancient art of Japanese paper folding, in this adults-only origami hour. You will learn different folding techniques while sipping on your favorite beverages. Registration required. fergusonlibrary.org
DECEMBER 15TH
I'll Be Home for Christmas
The Union Baptist Church 805 Newfield Avenue, Stamford, CT
6:00 PM
A Holiday celebration to benefit Healing Hearts Adaptive Recreation featuring Grammy and Oscar award winning vocalist, Ms. Lisa Fischer with Dennis Collins, Frank Mastrone, Richard "Cookie" Thomas and The Stamford Holiday Youth Chorus. For info email: ibhfchristmas@gmail.com or call 203-952-5813
Want to be featured?
GET IN TOUCH AT CITYLIFESTYLE.COM/ STAMFORD
The Holiday Wish Express
A Virtual Train Ride to The North Pole
ARTICLE BY PJ KENNEDY
All aboard the Holiday Wish Express! November 23 through December 24 at the Stamford Town Center.
The ultimate Christmas experience for the whole family! Step into a world of pure holiday enchantment at this year's Holiday Wish Express. Perfect for families of all ages, this unforgettable holiday adventure will transport you to a magical winter wonderland, full of joy, wonder, and excitement.
This year, experience an all-new train ride to the North Pole with new characters, stunning themed displays, and incredible photo ops for the whole family + all of your favorite light displays from the Holiday Stroll!
For tickets and more, visit: theholidaywish.com
COLUMBUS PARK, appetizers, homemade pastas, fresh fish and great wine list. A fun and fashionable location where the food and sevice are exceptional.
COLUMBUS PARK, centrally located in downtown Stamford, boasts of its extraordinary appetizers, homemade pastas, fresh fish and great wine list. A fun and fashionable location where the food and sevice are exceptional.
COLUMBUS PARK'S small-to-medium sized private parties such as corporate affairs, rehearsal dinners and family events. Columbus Park Trattoria will help to make your party unforgettable at a cost which is surprisingly affordable.
COLUMBUS PARK'S private dining room can accommodate 64 people. Specializing in small-to-medium sized private parties such as corporate affairs, rehearsal dinners and family events. Columbus Park Trattoria will help to make your party unforgettable at a cost which is surprisingly affordable.
CULINARY• EVENTS • LIFESTYLE
