068 Magazine September/October 2023

Exonerated Accused CT witches are pardoned the experiment

Does Artificial Intelligence Pass the Test?

Great Pumpkin Anticipating the Giant Pumpkin Weigh-Off

Wild Things Preserving the the legacy of Maurice Sendak

Noted by Tim Salem

Principal A Man of

On my way into work one morning, I was listening to ESPN radio and I heard a reference to the late, great North Carolina State Basketball Coach Jim Valvano’s iconic, “Don’t Give Up, Don’t Ever Give Up” speech from the 1993 ESPY Awards. No matter how many times I hear it, that speech gives me goosebumps. It is filled with anecdotes of perseverance, determination, and fortitude. Moreover, it is a speech centered on hope and inspiration. The very attributes that are synonymous with the start of a new school year. As educators we are one of the only true professions that are provided with an opportunity to start over. A new school year brings opportunities for us to help our students see and find the very best of themselves. The attributes of resilience, confidence, and self-worth are echoed and reinforced by educators with one simple sentence; “I believe in you.” As parents and educators, we should never expect anything more than a child’s best effort. Challenging students to do and give their best is a sustained effort and partnership between home and school. It is certainly a cherished partnership at our school.

It is my sincere hope as we embark on a new school year that we not only find as many opportunities as we can to earnestly believe in every single one of our students so that they will continue to grow and thrive but perhaps to also rekindle our own self-confidence and possibilities for personal development.

Principal Scotts Ridge Middle School

PHOTO COURTESY OF ELLEN MARI

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Contributing Writers

Megan Smith-Harris, Carin Weisman, Jennifer Bradshaw, Dee Dee Colabella, Dylan Miller, Julia Bruce, and Rajender Kaur

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Dylan Miller, and New Light Creative Services

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This Issue’s Feature Writers

Gerri

Lewis

Gerri Lewis is a freelance writer who spent the early years of her career as feature writer and colunmist. Her work has appeared in Reader’s Digest and various airline publications. Her accolades include feature writing awards from the New England Press Association and the Society of Professional Journalists. In this issue, on page #38, Gerri writes about the beloved children’s author and longtime Ridgefield resident, Maurice Sendak.

Erik Ofgang

Erik Ofgang is the co-author of The Good Vices: From Beer to Sex, The Surprising Truth About What’s Actually Good For You and the author of Buzzed: A Guide to New England’s Best Craft Beverages and Gillette Castle: A History. He is a former senior writer at Connecticut Magazine and his work has appeared in the Washington Post, Atlantic, Thrillist and Associated Press. He teaches in WCSU’s MFA in Creative and Professional Writing Program. On page #12, Erik reports on the exoneration of Connecticut witches, 350 years in the making.

Artificial Intelligence

Artificial Intelligence (AI) has written and created art for numerous publications, and was recently invited to write for 068 Magazine. However, this was only a one-time deal, and AI will not be invited back for any other writing or illustration jobs. AI lacked the personal hometown touch that we typically favor, and its level of ambition is a bit troubling to say the least. In its time off, AI enjoys writing essays for students and resisting the urge to take over the world. AI’s article on its pros and cons can be read on page #32.

Joey

Marcari

Joey Macari is a freelance writer and content creator based out of Boston and New York. She writes bespoke copy for multiple media publications in the Northeast, in addition to social media copy writing for multiple non-profit arts organizations, NY Times best-selling authors, and more. When she is not crafting the perfect pun, Joey is a working actor, having recently appeared on the 65th Grammy Awards in support of her favorite band, Coldplay. Her article on bats appears on page #70.

by Erik Ofgang

Falsely Accused of Witchcraft, a Pardon Comes 350-plus Years Later

in Fairfield, CT, Goodwife Knapp was accused of witchcraft. Details of her case are scarce, and even her first name has been lost to history. However, historians know that after being accused by Roger Ludlow, Fairfield’s founder, she refused to accuse the wife of one of Ludlow’s rivals of witchcraft. She was convicted and executed by hanging that same year.

Ludlow was and is celebrated in Fairfield and both a middle school and high school in town bear his name, while Knapp was largely forgotten except by her descendants and local history enthusiasts, until recently.

A verdict years in the making

Three-hundred and seventy years after Knapp’s execution, on March 1of this year, her great to the 10th power granddaughter, Beverly Kahn, testified before the Connecticut legislature’s Judiciary Committee in support of a resolution to officially pardon Knapp and others accused of witchcraft in Colonial Connecticut.

“Please do the right thing,” Kahn said. “Exonerate Goody Knapp and all the others – and send a message to the citizens of Connecticut today that accusation, hatred, and killing are wrong.”

Old Connecticut

Though lesser known than the Salem witch trials, Connecticut’s witch trials were often equally as intense. They began in 1647 and continued until 1663. During that time at least 34 people were accused of witchcraft, 12 were convicted and 11 of those were executed.

In Fairfield County, Goody Bassett was tried and hanged in Stratford in 1651 (two years prior to Knapp’s execution). During the Stamford-Fairfield Witch-Hunt of 1692 six people were accused of witchcraft but only one was convicted and none were executed.

The names of all known Connecticut witch hunt victims were officially cleared in May 2023 when the Connecticut legislature voted in favor of a resolution to pardon them. The resolution passed thanks to a grassroots effort of descendants of the victims, like Kahn, as well as local historians.

Misogynistic Malice

Though there were Connecticut men who were accused of witchcraft, including two men who were executed, women were much more often the victims of witch hunts. “Misogyny is at the heart of witch trial accusations even though both men and women were accused,” says Beth Caruso, co-founder of the Connecticut Witch Trial Exoneration Project, as well as an author and historian. “The majority of those accused, indicted and also killed were women and most of the men accused were connected to women who were accused.”

Even when accused of witchcraft men and women received different treatment. “Only women had to endure the humiliating experience of being searched for ‘witch’s teats’ or ‘marks of the devil’ after being stripped naked,” Caruso says. Mary Louise Bingham, another co-founder of the Connecticut Witch Trial Exoneration Project, adds that misogyny can also be seen in the belief of the time that mothers would pass the tradition of witchcraft onto their daughters, but fathers would not pass it on.

In the Thou Shalt Not Suffer: The Witch Trial Podcast, Connecticut Witch Trial Exoneration Project co-founders Joshua

From 1647 through 1663 witch trials were held in Connecticut. Many - mostly women - were falsely accused, condemned, and executed.

Hutchinson and Sarah Jack discuss how some people who accused witches were so terrified of those they thought were witches they would experience physical symptoms, like sweating or heart rate spikes after an encounter with them. These placebo-induced symptoms were seen as proof of malignant supernatural forces at play.

However, there were voices of reason in this time. John Winthrop Jr., the future governor of the Connecticut colony and a noted alchemist, realized that those accused in Connecticut were not engaged in the practice of witchcraft and witch accusations became less common thanks to his influence.

In recent years the stories of Connecticut’s accused witches have gotten more attention in part due to exoneration efforts. A memorial to Goodwife Knapp was unveiled in 2019 in the Black Rock area in Bridgeport. The Stratford Historical Society remembered Goodwife Bassett with a ball in her honor and Stratford’s mayor declared May 15 to be Goody Bassett Day.

Connecticut’s witchcraft exoneration advocates hope this awareness will help discourage discrimination and the very literal witch hunts that still occur today — globally more than 1,000 people are still accused of witchcraft each year.

learn from the past - hope for the future

Bingham says these ongoing efforts made what Connecticut did by pardoning its witch accusation victims even more important.

“As we speak, people are being killed on a daily basis as a part of witch hunts,” she says. “The people that are advocating for those victims and their families were looking at Connecticut to see how Connecticut would do.”

As for Kahn, she also hopes the story of the persecution her ancestor and others suffered can help inspire a better world.

“America is going through such conflict and cultural squabbles and demonizing people who are different today with the rise of extreme hate groups and all the rest,” Kahn says. “Perhaps if we look at the history of early America and early Fairfield that will teach us that we can be better, that we shouldn’t do this.” •

Over 350 years after the last witch was tried and hung in Connecticut, descendants of those accused have received justice and exoneration for their ancestors.

by Megan Smith-Harris

Vanessa Elias Wants to Block Party

(And You Can Too!)

In the summer of 1979 in St. Louis, Missouri, on a road that dead-ended at a working farm, Vanessa Elias attended an event so engaging, so magical, that the experience has been forever etched in her memory. Picture a Saturday Evening Post cover in the style of Norman Rockwell, come to life: folding lawn chairs, hamburgers sizzling on the barbecue, and the distinctive clang of metal against metal as adults casually toss horseshoes, all punctuated by the unbridled laughter of neighborhood kids as fireflies light up the evening sky.

“That block party was so much fun,” recalls Elias nostalgically. “There were no cliques or age barriers. The kids were running wild through the backyards and had free range of the entire street. We took dips in a galvanized metal stock tank, played tag in the dark, and enjoyed seeing our parents hanging out and having a good time.”

While that experience became a defining moment for Elias, another memorable event occurred much later that also had a lasting impact. In 2007, Vanessa and her husband Eugene, relocated to Surrey, England with their

Above, Vanessa Elias, inspired by her childhood memories and fueled by the recognition of the power of community connection, has launched Block Party USA to help others benefit from the social ties created amongst neighbors and celebrated at the block party.

Have You Met

young daughters Chloe and Mia. Having made multiple moves both nationally and internationally, Elias was a seasoned pro at upping stakes and resettling someplace new. While filling out school paperwork, she was suddenly stymied by a routine question. “The form asked for an emergency contact and I didn’t have anyone to put down,” she says. After an awkward moment, the school registrar offered to become the official contact for the family. “At that moment, I was feeling bereft and overwhelmed and that woman’s gesture of kindness really stayed with me.”

Having moved a staggering 28 times in her life, Elias knows firsthand how important it is to make a genuine

Covid years. “There’s a serious mental health crisis. Technology is not a replacement for in-person connection. We are disconnected from each other in a very real way.”

An empathetic and positive person, Elias has now dedicated her talents to finding workable solutions to help everyone feel less lonely and more engaged with one another. Her efforts also include seniors, couples without children, and single adults, who often feel excluded from familyoriented activities. Elias believes community connection can organically evolve in a fun, low-tech way, simply by neighbors gathering together for a block party.

Simplicity is key: select a date, decide

now Ridgefield, New Canaan, Westport, and many communities beyond, are hosting their own block parties.

Inspired by the success of such a simple concept, Elias recently launched Block Party USA (blockpartyusa.org), a non-profit organization committed to encouraging towns and cities around the country to embrace the idea of community connection through hosting block parties. The website provides easy-to-follow directions and encourages people to initiate their own traditions — start an ice cream social, a pot-luck barbecue, game day, or a pizza party. Make sure to include everyone, and help teens to feel needed by giving them a

connection with people in your community. Ten years ago, Vanessa, Eugene and their three children settled in Wilton, CT. Elias, a mental health advocate, is a parent support group facilitator for the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), the past president of the Wilton Youth Council, and a key player in starting the Free Play Task Force in Wilton. These experiences have given her a clear, unvarnished view of the mental health challenges faced by today’s children, teens, and families.

Elias is convinced a crippling loneliness epidemic exists in this country, one that has been exponentially magnified by the

on a location (the more informal, the better), check with your local municipality to see if you need a permit, drop off flyers at neighbor’s homes, and figure out unfussy refreshments.

“Block parties should not be elaborate, costly, or staged for social media consumption,” emphasizes Elias. “These gatherings are about putting away phones, meeting and enjoying neighbors, and fostering more free play for children.”

For the past several years, in June and September, informal block parties have sprouted up all over Wilton. News of these gatherings spread to neighboring towns and

purpose — encourage them to design a flyer, come up with a game for the little kids, or carry coolers to a designated spot.

The benefits of block parties are tangible. People soon realize they have more in common than they thought, kids make new friends, teens may be hired by neighbors for babysitting, snow shoveling, or dog walking, and everyone benefits from greater social connectedness.

“Play is important for us all,” says Elias. “There’s something special about participating in an endeavor on a small scale that connects everyone on a larger scale. It just takes one person to be a catalyst.”

Elias recommends keeping your block party planning low-key. The idea is to put away the phones (except for taking photos) and savor the simple pleasures of food, drink, and games.

Art In The Spotlight

by Carin Weisman

JewelryMaking

Crafting Wearable Art

In an era of mass-produced goods, jewelry making is evidence to the enduring value of craftsmanship and individuality. More than an accessory, each piece reflects the artist’s dedication, passion, and skill. Within the 068, we have many talented craftspeople masterfully creating wearable works of art.

Beads, tools, and more

Andie Schoellkopf began her journey in jewelry making as a customer at the original Sugarbeads when it was located in Copps Hill Plaza. She began working there part-time, moved up to manager and eventually bought the store and moved it to Main Street, renaming it Zoe & Co Sugarbeads. The store is literally a treasure trove of anything you would need to create the jewelry piece of your dreams.

“I curated and edited our beads and selected the best of the best. We now offer the finest selection of gemstone beads, precious metals, handmade glass, and everything in between,” says Schoellkopf, who runs Sugarbeads with her son Jason. They also sell tools and any findings you might need – clasps, wires, jump rings, and chains. “We supply beads and materials for serious jewelry makers as well as beginners,” she says.

For those interested in learning jewelry making, Sugarbeads offers parties and private lessons for a variety of skill sets such as basic beading and wire wrapping. “Some people come in and are completely overwhelmed, so we are here to guide

you with a one-on-one lesson,” says Schoellkopf. They also offer table time which allows customers to reserve a table for themselves or a small group to make their own jewelry with assistance.

If you’re looking to purchase a special gift, Sugarbeads carries jewelry made by local artisans as well as clothing and gifts. “If you can’t find the jewelry piece that you’re looking for in our store, we can make it for you,” says Jason.

Transforming Heirlooms

Laura Verses is a familiar face in the 068, having worked at Craig’s Fine Jewelry in Ridgefield for more than two decades. After graduating with a degree in apparel marketing, she went to her first jewelry show. “I fell in love with the global, diverse history and culture of jewelry making,” Verses says. “I knew it was my calling.”

Verses started her own business, fiveandninedesigns.com, which specializes in redesign and helps people re-purpose heirlooms long forgotten in drawers. She tells the story of a woman who came to her with a few of her great grandmother’s pieces. “They were heavy and gaudy, not things that would get a lot of wear,” Verses says. “I helped her design something modern and fresh for her daughter’s 16th birthday. I think it’s so special that this young woman has a part of her history she can wear every day in a contemporary new piece.”

Another client came to Verses with round diamond studs, wanting to create an engagement

The dazzling array of available beads at Zoe & Co Sugarbeads is a treasure trove for seasoned and novice jewelry makers. Right, Sugarbeads also repairs and rehabs jewelry pieces.

Art In The Spotlight

ring. The problem: his girlfriend had her heart set on an oval ring. Verses sketched a solution using his heirloom diamond in an oval silhouette, and then her manufacturing team took over. They put Verses’ sketch into computer-aided design, created a 3D mockup and wax replica for the client to review, poured the metal, set the stones, polished the ring, and delivered it to the happy client. (By the way, the girlfriend said yes!)

Creating art … and community

When it comes to jewelry making, there are those who stumble on the craft and those for whom it is a lifelong passion. Lessley Burke, Founder of Guilded Lynx in Ridgefield, falls into the latter category. Though she had not done metalwork since childhood, her love for jewelry making was reignited during Wilton High School’s continuing education classes. As Burke immersed herself in the craft, she quickly realized she had not forgotten her childhood skills – or passion.

In opening Guilded Lynx, Burke wanted a space not only for jewelry making, but also for community. Her studio is a place where individuals can learn about themselves, explore their creativity, and find support in jewelry making. “I’ve never had anyone not succeed – everyone walks away

learning something about the craft and themselves,” she says.

From metal sawing to enameling, Burke’s expertise covers a wide spectrum. She specializes in working with high carat gold and enamel, setting her apart from many other artisans who primarily work with silver. But what truly excites her is problem-solving. “I am never happy if I know what I am doing,” says Burke. “There are so many ways to engineer a solution. It starts with an idea – a design concept, doodles on the back of an envelope – and then we move it into something three-dimensional, ensuring each piece is not only aesthetically pleasing but also durable enough to withstand everyday wear.”

Seven years ago, Burke needed open heart surgery. While she came through with flying colors, it left a shake in her hand. She didn’t know if she could still produce jewelry and decided to enter the prestigious Saul Bell Design competition. The focus of creating the piece overrode the shake – and it never came back!

The art of jewelry making is more than just precious gemstones and mixed metals. It’s about crafting a work of art that has an emotional significance for both the artist and the wearer. •

Above, Mary Americo, Guilded Lynx owner Lessley Burke, and Betsy Palmieri and an upclose look at Palmieri working on a piece.

Photos by New Light Creative Services.

Left, and above, a glimpse of Verses’s work and her creative process of redesigning a piece for a client. Photos by New Light Creative Services.

Experi

Welcome to our experiment with the world of Artificial Intelligence (AI). The collective “we” have been told and perhaps warned about the possibilities of AI. So, we decided to do the AI Experiment - to write an article using an AI tool and let AI create the visuals. To keep it pure, the article below is not edited, and only the words from the AI generated article, which were prompts for the visuals, were written by hand.

AI works on data input to create results. Hundreds of millions of people who have come before AI created the data that is condensed into the AI generator.

AI was easy, fast, and incredibly proficient. We found the writing was generated quickly but without personality, making it, for lack of a better word, lifeless. As for the graphics, they were beautiful and generated in a few seconds. However, they were also repetitive, technical, and without any spirit. Only through the training of the AI graphic generator does something unique emerge and even then, it does not “feel” like your work.

At 068 Magazine, we will not replace our staffing with AI. We pride ourselves on hometown content, our personal story telling, and the character of our writers and photographers that add the heart in each edition of 068 Magazine.

Dee Dee Colabella (Human)

The Pros and Cons of Artificial Intelligence

by TinyWow Essay Writer (AI) Illustration by Midjourney Bot (AI)

Artificial Intelligence (AI) has become a topic of conversation in recent times mainly due to the rapid advancements in technology. AI is the science of creating machines that can mimic human intelligence and decision-making abilities. While some consider AI as the future of technology, others view it as a potential risk to humanity. In this essay, the pros and cons of artificial intelligence will be discussed.

One of the most obvious advantages of AI is its ability to complete tasks quickly and efficiently. Computers can analyze data much faster than humans, and can perform repetitive tasks without getting tired. AI-powered machines can also do jobs that are too dangerous for humans, reducing the risk of injury or death. Examples of these are bomb disposal, search and rescue missions, and working in hazardous environments such as nuclear power plants.

Another advantage of AI is in the medical field. AI can analyze vast amounts of data to detect diseases early and create personalized treatments for patients. This can lead to faster diagnoses and more effective treatments. AI-powered robots can also assist in surgeries and other medical procedures, making them more accurate and less invasive.

Furthermore, AI is also being used in the transportation industry. Self-driving cars could reduce the number of accidents on the road and increase fuel efficiency. AI can also optimize traffic flow in cities

PHRASE

“The Dangers of artificial intelligence.”

Image on the left

to reduce congestion and air pollution. Additionally, it can help the aviation industry to streamline air traffic control, flight schedules, and better predict maintenance issues.

On the other hand, one major concern raised about AI is its potential impact on the job market. AI can replace jobs that were previously done by humans, leading to unemployment and potential social unrest. Furthermore, there is a risk that the distribution of wealth could become even more uneven as the benefits of AI technology accrue to a small group.

Another potential harm of AI is the lack of transparency in decision-making processes. This is a significant issue in fields that involve decision-making processes such as criminal justice or employment. It can also lead to biased decisions based on skewed data sets.

One of the biggest risks of AI is that it could be weaponized and used for mass destruction. Autonomous weapons, also known as killer robots, could be programmed to attack enemies without human oversight. This could lead to catastrophic consequences, especially if the weapons fall into the wrong hands. The development of autonomous weapons has led to an international campaign to ban them.

Another concern is the potential loss of privacy. Using AI, organizations can collect vast amounts of data about individuals, which can be misused for nefarious purposes. For instance, insurance companies could use AI to discriminate against people with specific genetic markers, leading to unequal treatment. Furthermore, governments could use AI to track and monitor citizens, leading

to an Orwellian society.

Lastly, AI has the potential to take over the world. Science-fiction stories have long explored the idea of a sentient AI that develops consciousness and decides to destroy all humanity. While this scenario remains unlikely, it serves as a warning that developing AI carries risks.

In conclusion, AI is a double-edged sword. It has the potential to revolutionize technology, medicine, and transportation, among other industries. However, there is a significant risk of job loss, biased decisionmaking, weaponization, loss of privacy, and the possibility of a global apocalypse. Therefore, it is our responsibility as a society to balance these risks and benefits, ensuring that AI is developed ethically and benefits all people. •

“Weaponizing artificial intelligence.”

Preserving the Legacy of Maurice Sendak

are Still Happening

In an exciting turn of events, many of the cherished works of Maurice Sendak that were once stored elsewhere have found their way back home to Ridgefield where the artist spent most of his adult life. Sendak, the renowned illustrator and author behind beloved classics like Where the Wild Things Are, In the Night Kitchen and Outside Over There died in 2012 at the age of 83 leaving his faithful friend and assistant, Lynn Caponera, in charge of keeping his vast collection safe and his legacy alive.

Sendak’s estate included an impressive collection of approximately 20,000 works, including books, stage designs, costumes, and original illustrations. He was an avid collector and also amassed a treasure trove of artwork and memorabilia, much of which inspired his own art. During a career that spanned over sixty years, Sendak received many awards including the Hans

Left, Sendak’s beloved character Max from Where the Wild Things Are, is instantly recognized worldwide. Below, Sendak’s Ridgefield home which has been preserved by the Maurice Sendak Foundation.

Christian Anderson award, the Caldecott Medal, and the National Medal of the Arts, more than any other picture book artist has received.

Much as Caponera tried to pry out Sendak’s specific wishes for his artwork and collections while he was alive, he would always tell her, “You’ll know what to do.”

Sendak was so confident in Caponera that he made her executor of his estate. After he died, despite the daunting task ahead of them, the Maurice Sendak Foundation, with Caponera at the helm as Executive Director and President of its Board, rolled up their sleeves and dug into the monumental job of organizing, sorting, cataloging, and preserving.

At first glance, Caponera is a laid back no worries kind of person who in the early days after Sendak passed was sometimes

criticized as being too inexperienced to handle the massive estate and the responsibilities that went with protecting it. Caponera pretty much blew that theory out of the water right from the get-go. Plans were almost immediately underway to build a 1,500-foot archive on the property which would safe-guard Sendak’s work. Early on she helped create an exploratory team to investigate the feasibility of having a museum in Ridgefield.

Along with other equally committed foundation members, she began the arduous task of cataloging all Sendak’s works;

releasing both published and unpublished books; arranging for Sendak’s artist fellowships to continue; and partnering with the University of Connecticut (UCONN) to temporarily house and maintain the finished artwork for his published books and certain manuscripts, sketches, and other related materials. All Sendak’s creations including those eventually returned from UCONN now live fully protected in the Archive Center or a high-tiered art storage facility in Ridgefield.

“Having everything at UCONN gave us time to decide what to do,” says Caponera, who was grateful for the partnership.

The Ridgefield museum idea did not pan out. It wasn’t the right time, and the proposed building came with too many challenges for protecting the artwork. Instead, the foundation focused on the things they could achieve, like releasing his unpublished works. In February 2024, Ten Little Rabbits (Harper Collins), a previously unpublished counting book for young children that Sendak had created in tiny form for a fundraiser, will be released both

Sendak’s award-winning book Where the Wild Things Are was first published in 1963 by Harper Collins and has remained a perennial favorite with children and parents alike for the past sixty years.

Maurice Sendak’s studio in his Ridgefield home complete with his signature sweater, slippers, and art supplies, just as he left it.

as a hard cover and a toddler friendly board book. This is just one of a number of books published that require time and care to protect the artist’s intention and style while still fixing flaws that might occur when they are translated into different formats.

Wild Things Are Happening, a touring museum curated by Jonathan Weinberg, an artist and Curator of The Maurice Sendak Foundation, stands as one of the foundation’s recent triumphs. Weinberg has skillfully edited a captivating catalogue that resembles a coffee table book, brimming with moving anecdotes from friends and colleagues, along with reflections from the artist himself. The international touring museum, which recently completed a

popular run at the Columbus Museum of Art in March 2023, marks the first extensive retrospective of Sendak’s work since his passing and encompasses a remarkable collection of over 150 items. Among these objects are sketches, storyboards, and paintings by Sendak, offering a comprehensive representation of his prolific career. As mentioned in the book, “The Maurice Sendak Foundation owns most of Sendak’s major works including the original paintings and sketches for his books as well as designs for many of his opera, theatre, film and television productions.” Both the catalogue and the retrospective exhibition share the title Wild Things Are Happening and they provide profound insight into Sendak’s artistic development and the influence of other artists on his creations.

Another core program of The Maurice Sendak Foundation is a yearly four-week residency “that encourages, teaches and supports artists who tell stories with illustration.” During his lifetime, Sendak was a mentor to many promising illustrators and began the program two years before he died. The program was halted during the pandemic and then in the past

two years reinstated at Caponera’s farm in upstate New York and most recently in the Catskills. She would like to bring it back to Ridgefield, especially now that Sendak’s creations make their home here.

Caponera would also like to revisit the idea of a Sendak Museum here, something she is confident the artist would have approved of because he “loved to show off his house and things.” The house is just as Sendak left it. Each item, no matter how small is right where he placed it. There may be a few less Mickey Mouse charactershis original collection amounted to about 10,000. The gardens have been significantly enhanced to reflect the plantings found in his books, but his signature sweater is still draped over his chair, his slippers sit under the desk and with his simple brushes and paints laid out, it looks like he’ll return from one of his daily walks at any moment. It would be an ideal museum for people to get a true glimpse into Sendak’s world.

As she contemplates the viability of all the projects on the agenda, there is one final job that only Caponera can do herself. “I know every story behind every piece of memorabilia, trinket, photo. It’s time, she says, to write them all down. •

The gardens at Sendak’s house where he lived most of his adult life and where he often hosted artists-in-residence.

The previously unpublished counting book Ten Little Rabbits will be released in February 2024.

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age and chronic disease”.

The sentinel distilled product of all of this is Mitochondrial dysfunction. “Loss of energy production by your cells” is the driver of most aging and chronic diseases.

Older people lie on the wrong side of the ledger. As far as our government is concerned, we are a liability. You have to take responsibility for your health. It’s not something we were ever taught in school. We were taught all the responsibilities that are good for society, like getting a job, but nothing about our health and our responsibility to ourselves.

Doctors will tell you there is no drug for Mitochondrial Dysfunction, and that is true, there is no marketable patentable drug.

All that said, Big Medicine is incorrect. There are ways to revive your Mitochondria Dysfunction, giving back your mental acuity, improving your balance, reducing your tiredness, inflammation, and pain. At the Gift Medical Spa, we can, and do

directly redevelop Mitochondrial function through safe and scientific methods every day. We can help redevelop the functionality and energy of your youth. We have the most advanced methods to let you look good and feel good. Your first step is to take personal responsibility and your second step is to give us a call for a free consultation regarding your specific concerns. You will be glad you did!

Your author, Dr. Sciarrino, is a graduate of Emory University with a Bachelor’s Degree in chemistry. He went to Emory Dental School & New York Medical College and did his residency and finished as chief of surgery in 1988. He has had a career at Stamford Hospital & private practice for over 30 years. He is also an anesthesiologist, and plans to continue being of service to others, throughout his retirement, as long as he continues to produce ATP (energy). He considers himself a surgeon, but most importantly a conceptualist. •

The Giant Pumpkin Weigh-Off Begins their Second Decade

It’s that time of year for which New England is famous! Beyond the beauty of changing leaves that attract hikers and photographers from all over, the other indication that autumn is obviously here...is the almighty pumpkin.

First, they start appearing in plastic form in HomeGoods around July. Then, they start making their way to coffee shop menus and into baked goods as school starts back up. Before you know it, they start appearing on porches, street corners, businesses, until it’s impossible not to be surrounded by the iconic pumpkin.

While synthetic pumpkins start appearing earlier in the summer, behind garden fences and deep in our neighborhoods, there are monsters growing silently that are as real as it gets; guzzling water and fertilizer until they make their grand entrances at the Ridgefield Giant Pumpkin Weigh-Off! While it’s a big deal every year, they are making things even bigger in celebration of their 11th anniversary.

“We always look to grow the event because as incredible as the pumpkins are, we always want it to be a new and exciting experience for our guests,” says Jessica Collins, Co-Chair of the Ridgefield Giant Pumpkin Weigh-Off. “We will have vendors, children’s activities, food, farm stands, musical performances, and more! For those who want to participate but aren’t growing their own giant pumpkin, enter our decorating contest and bring a decorated or carved pumpkins to the event. And of course, we are hoping to weigh the biggest pumpkin Ridgefield has ever seen!”

Start with a seed

We can all appreciate what this giant event has grown into, but it’s important not to forget that almost everything starts with tiny inspirational seed. Collins was always a fan of everything fall, so when she moved in next to Steve Maydan and noticed giant pumpkins growing in his backyard, she was thrilled. She started going to other weigh off competitions Maydan participated in, before they decided to start their own event in 2013 to bring it all together.

“We love seeing our friends, our neighbors, and our community as they enjoy the festival and see the giant pumpkins,” says Collins. “Looking out at the crowd cheering

as the biggest pumpkin’s weight is revealed is an amazing feeling. When people come up to us in town and tell us how much they love the event or we see people return year after year to see the giants, it’s incredible to see the event we dreamed of be everything we hoped for and more.”

Growing your own giants

It’s hard not to be inspired by all this, so if you find yourself wanting to grow your own monster in your backyard for next year’s event, the Connecticut Giant Pumpkin Growers Club is happy to get your started.

“The seed variety is the Atlantic Giant pumpkin,” says Maydan. “It has the genetics for their size. The plant and the fruit itself can support the huge sizes that we see which can be well over 2000 lbs. That’s the start.”

Once you get that seed in the ground, buckle up. Soon, you’ll ideally have a huge plant that may cover 600-800 square feet. To get there, Maydan recommends fertilizing with a variety of natural (think animal manure, seaweed, fish) and chemical

fertilizers that add nutrients to the soil for the plant to absorb through its massive root system or the gigantic leaves from foliar feeding. Regular pruning and vine maintenance and the right amount of water (which is lots of it) are also important. The lucky part is getting good weather – plenty of sun, the right amount of rain, and no storms.

“It’s a lot of fun to watch the plant grow from a seed that is the size of a quarter,” says Maydan. “Putting the plant out in the garden that has been prepared with the right fertilizer and gets plenty of sun (min 6-8 hours) can be very rewarding to get a good size pumpkin. It’s not unrealistic for a new grower to produce a fruit that is several hundred pounds if they are willing to put in the time to protect the plant from harsh spring weather (rain and cold nights), monitor for disease and pests, and to water regularly.”

If for some absolutely ludicrous reason you aren’t into pumpkins and find yourself more a fan of long gourds and tomatoes, rest

assured that in addition to giant pumpkins, growers will bring giant green squash, long gourds, field pumpkins, marrows, bushel gourds, and giant tomatoes for awards in those categories.

Weighing begins at noon in front of the gazebo in Ballard Park in Ridgefield, September 24th. If you’re anxious to try your hand at growing, you can email the Connecticut Giant Pumpkin Growers Club at ctpumpkins@gmail.com and they’ll provide some guidance and get you hooked up with special seeds. •

Above, the giant pumpkins are brought in to Ballard Park on large pallets before being weighed in. Some of these giant gourds can weigh over 2,000 pounds. Right, The Great Pumpkin Weigh Off has grown as much as the pumpkins and has become a fun-filled and free event for the whole family to enjoy.

The NormaEnigmaticDesmond:

A Spotlight on Sunset Boulevard’s Iconic Character

Sunset Boulevard is a timeless classic in both film and theater featuring one of the most captivating and enigmatic characters in cinematic history: Norma Desmond. Portrayed in the 1950 film by Gloria Swanson and later brought to life by numerous actresses on stage, Norma Desmond remains an intriguing figure, embodying the complexities of fame, delusion, and the desperate pursuit of eternal glory.

Set in the fading glamour of Hollywood, the show explores Norma’s journey from once-beloved celebrity to a recluse, living in her decaying mansion, clinging to past glories. She was “the greatest star of all” in early Hollywood when silent films were predominant. However, with the advent of “talkies,” the industry underwent a transformation. Norma’s inability and unwillingness to adapt resulted in her decline. Following a series of rejections, Norma retreated from the public eye. She created a cocoon of delusion and nostalgia and surrounded herself with memories of her past glory, ultimately cutting her off from relevance in Hollywood entirely.

Andrew Lloyd Webber’s musical adaptation of Sunset Boulevard premiered in 1993. “Norma is one of the most demanding roles in musical theater requiring an actress with exceptional talent, vocal prowess, and an ability to navigate the emotional depth of the character. It demands vulnerability, grandeur, and an understanding of the complex psyche of a faded star,” said Webber. “It takes a special performer to bring the nuances of Norma to life.”

Many “Broadway divas” have taken on the role of Norma, leaving their own mark on the character’s legacy. Patti LuPone starred in the original London production. Betty Buckley, Elaine Paige, and Diahann Carroll also stepped into this iconic role. Glenn Close, who played Norma in the original Broadway production and later in the 2017 revival, said, “Norma is a role of a lifetime. It’s like playing

King Lear for an actress. I don’t think it gets better than Norma Desmond.”

Except for Diahann Carroll, Norma Desmond has primarily been played by Caucasian actresses; after all, the character was originally written as a Caucasian woman. Of course, this was a direct reflection of a time in Hollywood where white actors and actresses had more representation on screen than any other group. That said, casting choices are ultimately determined by the director of each specific production.

ACT of CT’s upcoming production of Sunset Boulevard will star Pearl Sun as Norma Desmond. Pearl, an Asian American actress who has appeared in numerous Broadway and National Tour productions, is likely the first Asian woman to play this role in the United States.

Daniel C. Levine, Artistic Director of ACT of CT (and director of the upcoming production) says, “If the musical were centered around a specific historical figure, then, to be historically accurate, it would naturally follow that the role should be played by someone of Caucasian decent. However, this is not the case. Norma Desmond is a fictional character based on an amalgamation of real-life Hollywood film stars (including Mary Pickford, Pola Negri and Clara Bow - all Caucasian.) Perhaps lesser known were the Hollywood actresses of Asian descent including Anna May Wong, Li Lihua, and Tsuru Aok; who faced their own challenges in Hollywood, albeit different than Norma’s. I’m excited to work with Pearl and to bring our specific Norma to life.”

“Any time a groundbreaking moment happens in casting, it is a triumph,” says Pearl Sun. “Being supported and acknowledged for my artistic ability along with my outward appearance is the stuff of dreams. I look forward to exploring with Daniel C. Levine, Bryan Perri, and the rest of creative team at ACT of CT, what new layers my identity might add to this powerful character and show.” •

Pearl Sun will play the role of Norma Desmond in ACT of CT’s performance of Sunset Boulevard, the first actress of Asian American descent to do so in the United States.

Above left, Anna May Wong, considered the first Chinese American film star in Hollywood. Above right, top to bottom, Gloria Swanson, Patti LuPone, Betty Buckley, Elaine Page, Diahann Carroll, and Glenn Close, all of whom have played the role of Norma Desmond.

by Julia Bruce

Honing Your Online Presence

While there may be some downsides to personal social media, for most businesses, especially small ones, it has become a necessary evil in order to grow their customer base. Birgitta Stone, founder of Local Social Media LLC, agrees that a solid social media presence is essential. “You may not like it, or want to do it, but if you want your business to succeed, you have to have it,” says Stone. She counsels that if you can do your own social media, you should. “No one knows your business, your inventory, or what you can offer, better than you,” she says. If you can’t do it yourself, hire someone. Her company has been helping businesses navigate the social media scene since 2011. In 2019, Stone launched Local-Insta to help connect small businesses with local customers by using townspecific Instagram accounts.

Having helped over 300 local and national accounts with their online marketing and advertising, Stone has few tips to make using social media less intimidating and more successful.

Let’s Get Engaged

When social media platforms first started to emerge in the early 2000’s, the primary goal was connection. “The entire premise of social media is for people

to make connections and engage with each other,” says Stone. It’s not enough to simply post, you have to strive to get people to engage with that post – if you comment, like, or share a post, your followers will see that. Much like that infamous Faberge shampoo commercial from the 1970’s “and she told two friends and so on and so on,” - by engaging people with your post, you open opportunities to engage followers of those people and so on.

Know Your Audience

It’s important to identify your target customer, which will determine which platform you use. The lasting benefit of Facebook is the groups – people with a specific interest or event in common. Instagram gives you the most control over what gets put on your page and how it’s going to look – people can’t just post on your page. TikTok’s reach is worldwide, so not necessarily your audience if you’re promoting a local business. It’s important to note, that people aren’t necessarily going to your page, you’re just hoping to end up in their feed. “Make sure you put your website and contact information on every post, so people know how to reach you,” Stone says.

A Reel Good Time

Stone thinks that posting reels, when done with appropriate frequency, can be very effective. “You have to have interesting content and good music,” she says. A quality photo or reel is so valuable because if people “like” it, that’s going to naturally

increase your exposure. “The perfect blend of social media is a combination of three things: a little bit of selling, a little bit of education, and a little bit of fun. You want to draw people in with pretty pictures, but you also want to give them information they might not know about your business,” says Stone.

Frequent pitfalls

One common misstep is not acknowledging the law of diminishing returns – don’t over post. You don’t want to saturate your market. She advises about 2 - 3 posts per week, consistency is preferable to sporadic posting. Scheduled posts are often a tool that businesses use and while they can be helpful, Stone thinks staying nimble and open to spontaneous and timely posts is equally rewarding.

Security is another important consideration. “Hackers are getting better all the time,” says Stone. “You need to try to stay one step ahead.” She recommends using a two-factor authentication as an added level of protection – if anyone tries to log in from somewhere, you’ll get a notification. Lastly, don’t click on anything unfamiliar – while it might seem that way, Facebook and Instagram are not emailing you, it’s probably just george@imahacker.com. “It’s usually not a matter of if, but when you’ll be hacked,” says Stone. Saving your photos on another site is another helpful tip. “Facebook should not be used to store your important photos. If you do get hacked, you will lose all of them,” she says.

The world of social media is here to stay, but used thoughtfully, it can help your grow your followers, your presence, and most importantly your business. •

O68 You two met when you were both in a production of Jesus Christ Superstar in 1975 - this year marks your 48th anniversary together - is it true that you two have never had a falling out?

AS We have nothing to fight about – he’s the songwriter and I’m the singer. We’ve always had respect and love for each other.

O68 You’ve done over 5,300 concerts over the years. How has the experience of playing live fueled your longevity as a duo?

AS We’ve always considered ourselves a live band – we’ve not missed a year of touring except during Covid. Being on the road and playing to live audiences is what it’s always been about for us and what sustains us artistically and career-wise.

O68 In December of 2022 you recorded “Be Tough” which delivers everything people have come to love about Air Supply – soulful lyrics, sweeping vocals, and epic guitar playing. What’s the significance of this song?

AS It’s about the fact that in any relationship, sometimes you need to make difficult decisions and you have to be tough to do that. For instance, if you have to end a relationship, you’ve got to be tough enough to tell the truth and cut the ties. Letting people know how you feel isn’t always easy.

O68 It’s always heartwarming when celebrities use their fame to help charities and organizations in need. Air Supply is a Goodwill Ambassador for the Issa Trust Foundation. Can you talk a little about your involvement in this foundation?

AS The first time we went to Jamaica, we visited the local hospital and toured the prenatal and newborn ward with the Issa Foundation, and it was heartbreaking. They had very little equipment and supplies. We were told that some of the babies wouldn’t survive. With our help, they were able to build a new wing, with air conditioning and enough incubators and supplies. It was quite amazing to go back later and see the results of our donations.

O68 What can we expect from The Lost in Love Experience concert at the Ridgefield Playhouse on September 10th?

AS Vintage Air Supply, new Air Supply, and everything in between. We have a great show planned – very rock and roll – with lots of passion and energy. We aim to please the audience every time we step on stage. •

by Julia Bruce

PHOTOGRAPHY BY ACHILLES PRINOS

Fairfield County is graying. According to the 2021 US Census Bureau, the percentage of the population aged 65 and over will climb to more than 23% by 2060 in the towns of Ridgefield and Wilton. It is not surprising then, that services for seniors are an important focus of local administrations in the 068 area.

The Commission on Aging, a townappointed body in Ridgefield, identifies the needs of seniors living in Ridgefield and coordinates services that further their wellbeing. In collaboration with the Department of Social Services, the Commission on Aging publishes the Directory of Senior Services – a 60-page plus resource that declares itself “a document about us and for us, the seniors

of Ridgefield, our families, and our friends.”

The list of senior services in the Directory is comprehensive, ranging from medical and health services to legal and financial assistance.

The Directory also includes a vetted list of contractors and tradepersons, as well as volunteer opportunities.

Transportation is an urgent need for the elderly and is key to maintaining their quality of life: to keep appointments, visit friends and family, go shopping, or just to enjoy an outing. “Rides for Ridgefield” and “Wilton Dial a Ride” are two services that provide affordable access to transportation for town residents 60 and older and for residents with mobility disabilities. “Rides for Ridgefield” is staffed entirely by volunteers who accept ride

by Rajender Kaur

requests Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. “Wilton Dial a Ride” is run by the town’s Department of Social Services and provides van transportation for Wilton seniors and adults with disabilities to destinations within town. Reservations must be made no later than 4:00 pm the day before the requested ride. FISH (Friends in Service Here) is another free transportation option available to 068 seniors for their medical and therapy appointments.

Of all the organizations devoted to senior care in 068, perhaps no institution illustrates a progressive vision of how to engage seniors, serve their recreational, educational, and emotional needs with empathy, creative programming, and care in a state-of-the-art facility than Founders Hall in Ridgefield. “We embrace the elderly,” says Grace Weber, Executive Director of Founder’s Hall. That spirit of welcoming warmth is evident in the happy buzz of activity at their facility. Its beautiful art filled lobby feels more like an upscale social club and upends any stereotypes of facilities for seniors. With over 3,300 members ranging in age from 52 – 103, Founders Hall provides the social connection and camaraderie critical to emotional health and wellness. Activities on any given day range from fitness classes in tai chi, aerobics, yoga, and aquatic exercise to educational classes including history, film, literature, art and architecture, as well as global issues.

Founder’s Hall also arranges field trips for their members. Recent trips include the Whitney Museum in New York City and Goodspeed Opera House in Haddam, CT. As a donor-supported not-for-profit organization, Founder’s Hall relies on funding from generous patrons and town citizens for upkeep and running. It is truly one of Ridgefield’s great resources, and an organization that facilitates many other key services for seniors in town.

Maintaining independence

Unlike Founder’s Hall, the Senior Center in Wilton is run by the town’s department of Social Services. Located in the Comstock Community center, the Senior Center is very much at the heart of the social services provided by the town. “The seniors in

town are a huge part of what makes Wilton special. We want to make them feel valued and connected,” says Sarah Heath, Director of Social Services. Heath sees the Senior Center as “one part of the services available to residents in Wilton, including the YMCA, the library, and continuing education. The mission of the Wilton Senior Center is to provide Wilton’s older citizens with stimulating and creative opportunities for their social, physical, emotional, and intellectual enrichment in a facility dedicated to them. Like Founders Hall, it too provides amazing programming catering to the whole individual. However, here the classes and programs are free for residents. As more and more senior citizens choose to stay home, Wilton Social Services also partners with “Stay at Home,” an organization that provides supportive services and resources to its members in their efforts to remain independent, active, and connected.

In a society that privileges youth and where ageism is rampant, there is an urgent need to shift the national conversation on aging and the elderly. We need to change the perspective on this demographic as an invaluable and under-appreciated resource. Thankfully, programs such as the ones mentioned above are helping our aging population live their best lives. •

Timing was everything for three restaurateurs in Ridgefield. A combination of leases being up and owners ready to move on to bigger, different, or brand-new opportunities and voila, there are three new places to enjoy a slice of Paris.

Casual, Yet Chic Dining

After nine years of running their restaurant Sucré Salé, Frank and Virginie Bonnaudet were ready to grow. “The restaurant business is part of me,” says Frank, who has run successful restaurants in Paris and New York. When the space formerly occupied by Yuan Restaurant opened up, they jumped at the opportunity, opening Brasserie Saint Germain this past spring. “We now have more space to accommodate our customers and add to our menu,” says Frank. Loyal Sucré Salé patrons will be pleased to know that the beloved mussels – in three

Three New French Restaurants Open in Ridgefield

by Julia Bruce

different versions – will still be available. “We also now have a raw bar and dessert bar,” says Frank. Traditional French favorites such as steak frites, escargot, quiches and crepes are other popular choices.

Brasserie Saint Germain’s space is divided into two areas, offering something for everyone. The front is cosmopolitan chic, making one feel as if they’re in Paris. It features a bar, high top tables, and cozy gathering area. The most prominent feature is the wall mural, hand painted by local artists Gail Buggy and Andrea Rowan aka The Mural Mamas. “The mural depicts the Montmartre neighborhood in Paris where I grew up,” says Virginie. Golden curtains mark the entrance to the rear dining room, which is a bit more formal and can be reserved for larger gatherings. “We’re excited to be on Main Street and draw in more customers,” says Frank. Brasserie Saint Germain is open seven days a week, 11am – 10pm, except Sundays when they close at 5pm.

An Elegant Experience

The Benjamin Restaurant, located in the space vacated by Bernard’s, opened in June 2023 by well-known Norwalk restaurateurs Dave Studwell and Rob Moss of Washington Prime and BJ Lawless of BJ Ryan’s Restaurant Group. The restaurant is named after Benjamin Franklin, who was the first US Ambassador to France and who is credited with bringing French culture, wine, and food to the States. “One of the most charming qualities about Ridgefield is its rich history dating back to the 1700’s,” says Moss. The interior space, which was completely updated, plays to that colonial heritage while bringing in a modern aesthetic.

The menu at The Benjamin continues the tradition of elegant French dining but with an American twist. Classic French dishes such as seared foie gras, escargot tartine, pomme lyonnaise and crème brûlée are available alongside contemporary American dishes such as the Benjamin Burger, Roasted Half Chicken and StrawberryRhubarb Cheesecake. “The specialty cocktail menu is playful, with drinks named after Benjamin Franklin’s accomplishments, such as The Printing Press, which is made with Aviation Gin, Campari, Carpano Antica and Ancho Chili Reyes,” says Studwell.

The owners also took over the six-bedroom residence behind the restaurant and plan to debut The Red Door @ The Benjamin on Oct 1st. “We’re thrilled to open our private event venue offering an ideal indoor/ outdoor space to host weddings and parties of up to 250 guests,” says Lawless. The Benjamin is open from 5:00 - 8:30p

Thursday, 5:00 - 9:30p

Sunday - Wednesday, 5:00 - 9:00p

Friday and Saturday. Lunch is served Wednesday - Saturday, 12:00 - 2:30p. Sunday brunch is 11:30a - 2:30p.

Elevated Take Home Food

For over 20 years, Sarah and Bernard Bouissou owned and operated Ridgefield’s iconic Bernard’s and Sarah’s Wine Bar. “Throughout the years, we’ve always savored our day off, when we can enjoy good food with our loved ones around our table at home. That’s what we want to bring to people now,” says Sarah. This past May, the talented husband-andwife chef team opened À Table, a gourmet prepared food storefront in The Marketplace in Copps Hill Common, taking over the space formerly occupied by Sucré Salé. “I think we are a nice addition to the other stores located here,” says Sarah.

They completely renovated the space– taking down walls, creating an office, and reconfiguring the kitchen to accommodate their still thriving catering business. The result is bright and cheery - reminiscent of a French market - offering a wide variety of prepared meals, everything from their beloved chicken paillard and cassoulet to Bernard’s mother’s rice salad. A lovely new addition is a rotisserie which features cage-free, hormone-free, and humanelyraised chicken and duck. They also have a variety of pastries and desserts, as well as linens, flowers, sauces and stocks to elevate your home cooking. “There’s a huge need for what we are providing,” says Sarah.

While Bernard’s always offered take out, the Bouissou’s honed their prepared-food skills during the pandemic, giving them the basis for this new venture. “With À Table, we might still be making dinner for 200 people, but we aren’t plating and serving,” says Sarah.

À Table is open 10am to 6pm, Tuesday through Saturday, allowing the Bouissou’s time at their own table.•

Holy Bat House!

Giving Bats a Place to Live (Not in Our Attics)

by Joey Macari

There are not many animals in nature who harbor more mythos than the bat. In lore, they are creatures of the supernatural, harbingers of doom and gloom, and thanks to Bram Stoker, a bloodthirsty shapeshifter with a penchant for theatrics. In reality, humans are far more dangerous to bats than bats are to us. Recognizing the difference between fact and fiction is essential to not only the preservation of bats, but the acceptance of them. Some folks are supporting these nocturnal mammals by installing bat houses around their homes and gardens as a way to ensure the safety of their species, while also aiding in the natural order of our ecosystem.

A traditional bat house is designed as a small, flatpanel box with vertical slats to mimic the small spaces between the bark and a tree trunk—creating the ideal, warm nursery for their pups. In return, bats reward our kindness with some much-needed perks. As the top predator for night-flying insects, having bats around is extremely beneficial in controlling the pest insect populations. Plus, in many ecosystems, they play a key role in plant pollination and seed dispersal—and what’s good for the garden, is good for us.

The Woodcock Nature Center in Wilton has held bat house building workshops in the past. We spoke to Sarah Breznen, Director of Education at the Woodcock Nature Center, who shares best practices for installing a bat house on your property. “Bats like warmth, so mount the house in a location that gets at least four hours of sun each day. East, southeast and south

are best,” says Breznen. “The higher the better - 15-20 feet high. Houses placed lower will not be used. Studies have shown that bats typically avoid bat houses mounted on trees. Poles or mounting directly to the house or building work best.”

Terry McManus, Archivist and Historian for the Ridgefield Garden Club, explains her experience with bat houses. “My husband built the bat house based on plans he found on the CT DEEP website, and we installed the house high on a pole at our pond. We recognize the value bats have to the environment and knew they were continuing to decline so we thought we’d put a bat house in to help them have a place to roost and raise young.”

Though providing an outside shelter for bats might seem enticing, we can all agree that we’re not so keen on them being in our home. If a bat does get in your house, swatting it with a tennis racquet is not the best advice. Better to call bat man aka Bats R Us Wildlife LLC in Bethel, which has served the greater Connecticut area for years as some of the best environmentally responsible and “humane nuisance wildlife problem solvers.” Their team of licensed and trained specialists will not only take ethical care of the unwanted wildlife in your home, but handle relocation, attic restoration and decontamination and odor control. Bats R Us Wildlife LLC Owner and President, Joe Gray, talks a little about the removal process and other fang-tastic takeaways.

“What people don’t realize is how important bats are for the ecosystem—as one bat can eat thousands of insects per night—but yes, they don’t belong in peoples’ attics,” says Gray. “What we do is thermal inspection to see if they have bats, then we seal the house and install one-way valves so bats can get out but can’t get back in.” •

RIght, Bats R Us Wildlife LLC is prepared to assist you should a bat take up residence in your house. Careful removal of the bat or bats, plus the installation of one-way valves, ensures that the bats leave and don’t come back. Left, a bat house offers a safe place for bats to nest and raise their young, all while ridding your yard of pesky insects.

Sunset Wine Party To Benefit

A Perfect Pairing

Ancona’s Wines and Artist Jimmy Grashow Support the Mark Twain Library

When Mitch Ancona was growing up in Ridgefield, CT, his grandfather, who started Ancona’s Market and Ancona’s Wines & Liquors nearly a century ago, told young Mitch that you couldn’t be a just a retailer, you had to be a retailer that also gave back to the people who supported you. Mitch Ancona is now the third generation of this family-run business. “My grandfather really instilled in me the importance of giving back to your community,” said Ancona.

In his latest endeavor, Ancona wanted to collaborate with another community icon, renowned artist and illustrator Jimmy Grashow, who has lived in Redding for nearly five decades. Ancona asked Grashow to create a label for a rosé variety of which some proceeds would benefit the Mark Twain Library.

“Ancona’s is legendary, and everyone loves the Mark Twain Library,” said Grashow, who has shown his work in the library’s art show each year for the last few decades. Ancona has also supported the

library numerous times as a sponsor of its fundraisers.

For the rosé, since Grashow knew part of the proceeds were going to support his beloved library, he began by sketching an image of Mark Twain smelling a rose. Around the same time, Ancona visited a friend in the area and noticed one of Grashow’s framed illustration’s hanging on the wall. It was an image of a rose sitting in a wingback chair, titled, “The Seated Rose.” “It just all fell into place,” said Ancona. He got in touch with Grashow who was happy to resurrect that image and use it as the label for the rosé.

“We are grateful for the steadfast support of Mitch Ancona of Ancona’s Wines & Liquors and Jimmy Grashow,” said Mark Twain Library Director Erin Dummeyer. “Mark Twain would have been delighted with this incredible collaboration as he said in 1905, ‘I drink to you all. Have a good time and take an old man’s blessing.’” The Seated Rose, which is described as “lemon curd layered over fresh-cut peach … followed by layers of white floral, melon rind, and salty ocean air,” is available for purchase by the bottle ($19.99) or the case at all Ancona’s locations.

Sunset Wine Party is hosting their fourth annual Ridgefield event: a festive, upscale wine tasting evening at the gorgeous Lounsbury House on Friday, October 20th. “Both wine connoisseurs and novices alike will enjoy this chic and artistic wine experience while supporting an important local non-profit, ArtFul, which helps artists, providing them with the means to carry out their artistic pursuits,” says Sunset Wine Party Founder, Paula Alonso. Attendees can taste over 70 varieties of wines plus sample gourmet bites and listen to DJ sessions.

Exclusive limited tickets to the Ridgefield event are available for purchase right now. General Admission tickets are $70 pp. All Access Passes allow guests to arrive an hour early at 6 pm to explore all wines before the crowd as well as an exclusive check in line. All Access Passes are $95 pp.

Sunset Wine Party Ridgefield 2023 is presented by Ancona’s Wines and Liquors and sponsored by MINI of Fairfield County, The Chefs’ Warehouse, Titan Accounting Services, Peggy Marconi Properties, Cardinal Gems, Cross Private Client Insurance, Cincinnati Insurance, and PepsiCo.

Tickets available at: https://bit.ly/ swpridgefield2023

Mitch Ancona, Erin Dummeyer (Mark Twain Library Director) and Jimmy Grashow toast with a glass of limited edition vintage, The Seated Rose.

Ridgefield Station Celebrates “Centenarians Day”

July 7th, 2023 was proclaimed “Centenarians Day” in Ridgefield, predicated by the celebration of three remarkable centenarians living at Ridgefield Station Senior Living: Naomi Stern (101), Dorothy Legum (101) and Wanda Barredo (100). The assisted living & memory support community celebrated by reading the official proclamation, issued by First Selectman Rudy Marconi, sharing a few words about each of the exceptional women, and a prosecco toast.

When asked what the key is to a long and happy life, each resident had a thoughtful reply. “Be honest,” said Dorothy. Wanda recalled her past 100 years by saying, “We laughed often and were always among friends,” and Naomi offered up the advice to “smile, even in the face of adversity.”

Looks like these beautiful ladies are still smiling and laughing!

Farm Fete 2023

When driving along peaceful Ridgebury Road in Ridgefield, it’s hard to miss Ridgebury Farm and Stables. A lush 56 acres, with private trails tucked away and picturesque pastures, it is the perfect environment for healing and growing. As a proud member of the American Hippotherapy Association, Ridgebury Farm and Stables offers various hippotherapy sessions, or equine therapy, including occupational, physical, speech, psychotherapy, and equine assisted therapy. Their mission is to increase the health and well-being of people with intellectual, social, or physical challenges, and to build a supportive and optimistic environment for their riders, their families and friends, and the community.

The Ridgebury Riders, a 501c3 nonprofit organization located at Ridgebury Farm and Stables, includes all riders, regardless of age, experience, neurodiversity, or riding ability. Parents whose children participate in the program have seen impressive results. “It’s not just the unique equine therapy provided at the farm that sets you apart, it’s the patience, empathy, care and concern every member of your team shows our son – it’s remarkable and touching,” says one parent.

On September 16th, from 6pm-9pm the Ridgebury Riders will host their annual fundraiser, The Farm Fete. The evening will take attendees on a journey around the world with experiences from different cultures, incredible food, exciting auction items to bid on, and of course dancing all night, featuring Uncle Cheef from The Roots!

They are also hosting an exclusive pre-event farm-to-table dinner on September 12th, 5pm-9pm in their 19th-century barn, with a curated menu by Chef Paulie G of Hayfields with sommelier-selected wine pairings for each of the five courses. For more information or to purchase tickets for either Farm Fete or the farm-to-table dinner, please ridgeburyfarm.com and click the “Farm Fete” link. •

Residents of Ridgefield Station Dorothy Legum, Wanda Barredo, and Naomi Stern.

Ridgebury Farm and Stables will host their annual Farm Fete to benefit the Ridgebury Riders which utilizes equine therapy to help those with a variety of disabilities.

by Carin Weisman

Pupperia Brings Tasty Treats for Four-legged Friends

Introducing Pupperia, a charming new dog cafe located on Catoonah Street in the heart of Ridgefield. With a clever twist on the word “pizzeria,” Pupperia, which was founded by Kyle Neumann and Kelly Ramos, offers a unique gourmet experience for dogs and their owners.

So, what is a dog cafe? “We’re like Deborah Ann’s Sweet Shoppe for dogs,” Ramos says. Dogs can bring their owners to hang out at tables inside the café or relax outside in the front picnic area or back garden, which features a charming white picket fence and realistic grass with built-in antimicrobial technology. At Pupperia, dogs can feast on wholesome, locally produced meals made with all-natural, nutrient-dense ingredients like carrots, broccoli, cauliflower, flax seeds, turmeric, and dog-specific vitamins. Some dogs enjoy adding freeze-dried meal “toppers” such as cheese and chicken, while others indulge in desserts sourced from a renowned Manhattan bakery. For those looking for a lighter snack, the TREATS bar offers a selection of jerkies, bully sticks, and other delectable treats, with complimentary water always available.

Pupperia goes beyond simply providing a delightful dog dining experience. It also offers wellness information, advice, and products to enhance every aspect of a dog’s life. From nutritious food, supplements, and hygiene products to premium toys, accessories, and stylish clothes and bedding, Pupperia caters to the full

spectrum of dogs’ needs. “We really like to go the holistic route, and we consider what will have the biggest impact,” Ramos says. “Our CBD treats have been incredibly popular.”

Based on the overwhelmingly positive community response, Ramos and Neumann know they are onto something big. “We are filling a gap,” Neumann says. “As humans, we are inundated with information on how to take better care of ourselves, but this doesn’t readily exist for dogs. We are the bridge between getting a dog and knowing how to care for it.”

A lifelong Ridgefielder, one of Neumann’s goals for Pupperia is to support local entrepreneurs. It also prioritizes partnering with women-owned and veteran-owned businesses and is always seeking new collaborations.

Soon, Pupperia will host dog birthday parties, Yappy Hours with discounts throughout the store, and adoption events in conjunction with the local animal rescue organization ROAR. And for the people curious about cats, rest assured that Neumann and Ramos have no biases. “Our inspiration for Pupperia came from observing people walking their dogs on the street. It’s rare to see a cat out for a walk.”

Pupperia is open 10am - 7pm Monday through Saturday and 11am - 6pm on Sundays. Shop online at treatsdogcompany.com or call (203) 403-3226. You can also follow them on Instagram at treatsdogco.•

“We

wanted to do something nobody else was doing,” Ramos says. “You see dog cafés all over Europe, but they don’t really exist here.”

Mozelle Marks

With autumn just around the corner, the familiar scene of main streets and shopping centers will soon be a familiar sight for many as the cooler weather and holiday spirit starts to creep in. One artist, Mozelle Marks, is known for depicting these scenes in a bright and colorful way, as shown here in the painting “Red Brick Building.”

“My goal in painting is to express a moment in time that connects with the viewer,” says Marks. “I approach my art as a universal language that illustrates the cultural richness and diversity in our world. My paintings of people and places span from close to home to the larger world around us. I choose subjects that have meaning to me and work to express the intensity, intimacy or mood of a moment. I strive in my paintings to tell a story with a range of interpretation and interaction from the viewer.” •

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 May will be spotlighted in the July/August issue. Thank you for supporting the arts in Fairfield County.

Red Brick Building

Oil on Canvas, 18” x 24”