Stories

Tour de Forest Bike Ride in Norfolk, CT, Set for Oct. 19

<p>Norfolk, CT - Sign up for this year’s Tour de Forest bike ride, which will be held on Saturday, October 19, to support two local nonprofit organizations, the&nbsp;<a href="https://greatmountainforest.org/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(25, 106, 212);">Great Mountain Forest&nbsp;</a>and&nbsp;<a href="https://norfolkct.org/rails-to-trails-committee/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(25, 106, 212);">Norfolk Rails to Trails</a>. This unique annual event offers gravel riders an unprecedented opportunity to spend a crisp autumn day enjoying the stunning beauty of one of the state’s largest undeveloped woodland areas -- Norfolk’s Great Mountain Forest. New riders are welcome. Register here:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bikereg.com/66582" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(25, 106, 212);"><u>https://www.bikereg.com/66582</u></a>.</p><p>The Tour de Forest offers two different courses, allowing riders to choose the course that matches their level of endurance. The first course, the Icebox Gravel, kicks off at 9:30 am, taking riders along 30 rugged miles of gravel and paved roads, including sections conserved by the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.norfolklandtrust.org/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(25, 106, 212);">Norfolk Land Trust</a>. The second course, the signature Tour de Forest, starts at 10 am for a 13-mile ride on a mix of gravel and paved roads wending through and around the spectacular Great Mountain Forest. Riders are advised to keep their eyes peeled for wildlife -- you never know what you might see! Great Mountain Forest’s roads are repaired and maintained annually to support the forest’s management, research, educational, and recreational activities.</p><p>The ride begins and ends at the Norfolk Curling Club, where registration begins at 8 a.m. All proceeds support the programs of Norfolk Rails to Trails and Great Mountain Forest. Great Mountain Forest is committed to responsible stewardship and conservation of the land for future generations and Norfolk Rails to Trails is a champion of public access to Norfolk’s unique natural resources.</p><p>At the ride’s end, bikers refuel with shots of maple syrup produced by Great Mountain Forest’s team. The fun continues at the pig roast offered by the Norfolk Curling Club for an additional fee; click here to register.&nbsp;<a href="https://norfolkcurlingclub.org/index.php/events/event-listings/fundraiser/pig-roast" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(2, 177, 151);">https://norfolkcurlingclub.org/index.php/events/event-listings/fundraiser/pig-roast</a>&nbsp;Registration fees for the Gravel Rides are $50 per adult, $25 per teen, and free for young riders. To register, click here.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bikereg.com/66582" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(25, 106, 212);"><u>https://www.bikereg.com/66582</u></a>.“This ride is perfect for people who want to get outdoors on a crisp autumn day and ride through one of Connecticut’s largest forests for a good cause,” said Mike Zarfos, PhD, Executive Director, of Great Mountain Forest. “When we are in the forest, we feel inspired, healed, and strengthened, and that is why we encourage everyone to come to Norfolk and join in the fun of this ride. Plus there will be sweet and savory treats at the end!”</p><p><strong style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Photo credit: Andrea Moss</strong></p>

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More than 250 guests gather to support RVNAhealth and celebrate Theresa Santoro

<p><strong>RVNAhealth Celebrates 25 Years of Visionary Leadership by Honoring CEO Theresa Santoro at 2024 Autumn Dinner</strong></p><p>Last week, over 250 attendees gathered at the picturesque&nbsp;<strong>Le Chateau in South Salem</strong>&nbsp;to honor&nbsp;<strong>Theresa Santoro</strong>, RVNAhealth's CEO and President, for her extraordinary 25 years of leadership. The atmosphere was one of joy and heartfelt gratitude as the community came together to celebrate Santoro’s unwavering dedication and the impact RVNAhealth has had on so many lives.</p><p>The evening began with a lively cocktail hour, where guests mingled while enjoying passed hors d’oeuvres and the stunning surroundings of Le Chateau. Providing the perfect musical backdrop were three talented musicians from Ridgefield High School—Whyall Clifton, Tomas Groot, and Jackson Dell—who added to the cheerful ambiance.</p><p>As attendees transitioned into the grand ballroom,&nbsp;<strong>Ward Mazzucco</strong>, RVNAhealth Board Chair, welcomed the room with a warm message of appreciation for Theresa Santoro. He praised her leadership, describing it as nothing short of visionary, and expressed gratitude for the impact she has had in shaping RVNAhealth into the esteemed healthcare provider it is today.</p><p>The evening was made possible by the dedicated efforts of the organizing committee, led by&nbsp;<strong>MJ Heller</strong>, RVNAhealth's Director of Philanthropy, and&nbsp;<strong>Debbie Campbell</strong>, Development Manager.</p><h3>Honoring Theresa Santoro: A Legacy of Care</h3><p>Theresa Santoro's journey with RVNAhealth began 25 years ago when she joined the organization as a visiting nurse. Her dedication, skill, and leadership propelled her to the role of CEO, where she has overseen the growth of RVNAhealth into a regional healthcare leader, serving more than 5,000 patients and clients annually across Fairfield, Litchfield, and New Haven Counties. Under her guidance, RVNAhealth offers a full spectrum of healthcare services, addressing lifelong health and wellness needs with unmatched compassion and expertise.</p><p>The heart of the evening's celebration was a series of moving tributes from those closest to Theresa, representing the "4 C's" that define her character:</p><ol><li><strong>Character</strong>&nbsp;– Theresa's sister,&nbsp;<strong>Maria Bartiromo</strong>, spoke fondly of their childhood, sharing stories of Theresa’s nurturing spirit and role as the "big sister". She reminisced about their parents, who owned a restaurant in New York City, and how Theresa developed the strong work ethic and compassion that define her today.</li><li>Theresa's children,&nbsp;<strong>Nick Santoro</strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>Samantha Santoro Keller</strong>, also shared personal stories about their mother’s ability to juggle their busy schedules while earning her nursing degree and later, growing RVNAhealth. Their heartfelt words painted a picture of a true "supermom," balancing family and career with grace and dedication.</li><li><strong>Confidence</strong>&nbsp;– Longtime RVNAhealth Board member&nbsp;<strong>Dan O'Brien</strong>&nbsp;reflected on Theresa's confidence and assuredness as a leader, qualities that have inspired trust and loyalty throughout her 25-year tenure.</li><li><strong>Competence</strong>&nbsp;– Former RVNAhealth Board Chair&nbsp;<strong>Mary Jones</strong>&nbsp;spoke to Theresa’s incredible competence and how her nursing background has informed her decisions, ensuring that RVNAhealth continues to deliver the highest quality of care.</li><li><strong>Conductor</strong>&nbsp;–&nbsp;<strong>Eileen Walker</strong>&nbsp;brought the tributes full circle, comparing Theresa to a skilled conductor, expertly guiding the many facets of RVNAhealth to harmonize in their mission to provide outstanding healthcare to the community.</li></ol><h3>A Night of Giving, Auctions, and Joy</h3><p>In addition to honoring Theresa, the evening was filled with fun, laughter, and meaningful opportunities to give back. Attendees were greeted with friendly smiles at check-in and the chance to purchase a raffle ticket for the highly anticipated "Golden Paddle" raffle, offering $1,000 toward one of the exciting live auction items.<strong>Tom Pesce</strong>, auctioneer extraordinaire, energized the crowd as paddles flew up for incredible experiences, including:</p><ul><li>A&nbsp;<strong>private tour of the Walker Library of the History of Human Imagination</strong></li><li>A&nbsp;<strong>one-week getaway in Taos, New Mexico</strong></li><li>A&nbsp;<strong>Genoa Wood Fired Pizza Party</strong></li><li>A&nbsp;<strong>pickleball party at Silver Spring Country Club</strong></li><li>A&nbsp;<strong>ski week at Loon Mountain, New Hampshire</strong></li></ul><p>Guests also admired beautiful hydrangea and rose centerpieces by Rodier Flowers, owned by Mary Jones, and eagerly participated in the&nbsp;<strong>Date Night for a Year</strong>&nbsp;raffle, offering gift certificates to local restaurants, unique experiences, and an overnight stay at the West Lane Inn.</p><p>The night was a true celebration of RVNAhealth’s mission and Theresa’s incredible leadership, reminding everyone of the power of community and the profound difference RVNAhealth makes in the lives of those it serves.</p><p>To learn more about RVNAhealth’s services and support its ongoing mission, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://rvnahealth.org/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(2, 177, 151);">rvnahealth.org</a>.</p><p>*Image by&nbsp;<a href="https://deborahobrien.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(2, 177, 151);">Deborah O'Brien Photography</a>.</p>

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Ann's Place Celebrates Community Traditions at the 22nd Annual Festival of Trees

<p>Ann's Place proudly presents the 22nd Annual Festival of Trees: “Celebrating Traditions.” Marking the official start to the holiday season, this much-loved event will take place from November 22-24, 2024, at The Summit in Danbury. Join in the fun as The Summit transforms into a magical winter wonderland featuring beautifully decorated trees, each representing a story of resilience and triumph over cancer. Lovingly created by local artisans, these extraordinary trees will ignite the holiday spirit in everyone while serving as a symbol of hope, reminding us of the strength and courage displayed by those affected by cancer.</p><p>Throughout the weekend, Ann’s Place will celebrate the many traditions of our local community, featuring live performances from dancers and musicians from cultures around the globe. On Saturday and Sunday, the stage will come alive with renowned local talent, including Swing Set and $2 Hat.</p><p>This year’s Festival of Trees includes a wide array of holiday activities for individuals of all ages. Live music and entertainment, raffles, shopping and children’s craft activities will be featured throughout the weekend. Get a jump on holiday shopping and enjoy delicious nibbles and a free drink at Sip, Stroll &amp; Shop on Friday November 22 from 4pm-7pm. Delight in the many wonderful gifts including artisanal and handmade items, that can’t be found anywhere else. There is truly something for everyone!</p><p>Adults 21+ can also enjoy Tastings at the Lodge on Saturday, November 23rd from 7-10pm. Enjoy wine, spirits and beer tastings; live music; a build-your-own mac &amp; cheese station and much more. All attendees receive full access to the Festival of Trees wonderland, shopping and high-end raffle prizes.</p><p>"We are excited to honor the diverse traditions that make our community so special," says Shannon Cobb, Ann’s Place President &amp; CEO. "The Festival of Trees has always been about bringing people together, and this year we are proud to highlight the cultural richness that defines our local community.”</p><p><strong>Festival Days:</strong></p><p>Friday Nov. 22, 12:00 pm – 7:00 pm</p><p>Saturday and Sunday, Nov. 23-24, 10 am – 5 pm.</p><p>Ages 3 to 64, $10; Seniors, $5; kids under 3, free.</p><p><strong>Special Events:</strong></p><p>Sip, Stroll &amp; Shop, Friday Nov 22, 4pm - 7pm; $15 admission</p><p>Tastings at the Lodge, Saturday Nov 23; 7-10pm; $65 admission; 21+ only</p><p>For more Festival information and tickets: <a href="http://www.annsplacefestivaloftrees.org/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">http://www.annsplacefestivaloftrees.org/</a> or call (203)790-6568</p><p><strong>Meet some of our local tree artisans here: </strong><a href="https://www.annsplacefestivaloftrees.org/tree-donors" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.annsplacefestivaloftrees.org/tree-donors</a></p>

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Top 10 Reasons to Attend the Expedia Cruises™ Travel Expo in Newtown on Thursday

<p>Looking for your next adventure or simply craving some travel inspiration? The <strong>Expedia Cruises Travel Expo</strong> is the perfect opportunity to unlock exclusive deals, meet industry experts, and plan the vacation of your dreams. Hosted by <strong>Connecticut's First Expedia Cruises™ Agency</strong>, owned by Mary and Jim Villamana, this event promises to be packed with valuable travel insights and exciting opportunities.</p><p>Join us on <strong>Thursday, October 10, 2024</strong>, from <strong>4:00 PM to 7:30 PM</strong> at the <strong>Newtown Community Center, 8 Simpson St., Newtown, CT</strong> for an unforgettable experience. Here’s why you should attend:</p><h3><strong>Top 10 Reasons to Attend</strong></h3><ol><li><strong>Exclusive Deals &amp; Offers:</strong> Take advantage of special show pricing.</li><li><strong>Win Prizes:</strong> Enter for a chance to win amazing travel giveaways!</li><li><strong>Vacation Inspiration:</strong> Discover ideas for your next getaway.</li><li><strong>Meet the Experts:</strong> Speak with travel professionals from 22 companies, including Viking, Royal Caribbean, Princess, Globus, Trafalgar, Cayman Island Tourist Board, and more.</li><li><strong>Learn About New Products:</strong> Stay updated on the latest travel innovations.</li><li><strong>Personalized Advice:</strong> Get tips from well-traveled advisors.</li><li><strong>Exclusive Pricing:</strong> Explore Expedia Cruises’ exclusive pricing options.</li><li><strong>Top-Rated Consultants:</strong> Meet Vacation Consultants with over 100 5-star Google reviews.</li><li><strong>Support a Cause:</strong> Help raise funds for the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation.</li><li><strong>Free Admission:</strong> Enjoy all this without any cost!</li></ol><p><a href="https://promo.expediacruises.com/900221/travelexpo2024" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">Register for the Expedia Cruises Travel Expo</a></p><p><strong>What to Expect</strong></p><p>With over 20+ travel experts participating, you’ll have access to an impressive range of vacation options. Whether you're dreaming of a relaxing luxury cruise, an adventurous safari, or a serene all-inclusive resort, there's something for everyone. Plus, you'll have the chance to support a great cause while planning your next big trip.</p><p>Don’t miss out on this unique opportunity to meet with travel professionals, discover new destinations, and score unbeatable deals.</p><p><strong>Register today and embark on your next adventure!</strong></p>

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4th Annual New Milford Apple Festival

<p><strong>It's an Apple Festival tomorrow, Saturday, September 28 from 10am to 5pm on the New Milford Green.</strong></p><p><span style="color: rgb(5, 5, 5);">Enjoy a fun filled day with over 50 vendors, amusements for the kids, music, kids contests, bake off competition, apple foods and much more!</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(5, 5, 5);">Learn more </span><a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/8631127986918532?_rdr=" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here</a>.</p><p><br></p>

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Wisdom House & Daughters of Wisdom 75th Anniversary Open House Celebration

<p>September 23, 2024 - The public is invited to Wisdom House Retreat &amp; Conference Center in Litchfield for an Open House celebration of the 75 years of the presence of the Daughters of Wisdom, the founders of Wisdom House, in Litchfield.</p><p>The Open House will be held from 3:00 to 5:00 p.m. on Saturday, October 5th, with official remarks at 3:45 p.m. in the chapel, followed by light refreshments.</p><p>The mission of the Daughters of Wisdom is the “seeking and contemplation of Divine Wisdom in a world that hungers for meaning, justice, and compassion.”</p><p>Originally founded in France in the early 18th century by St. Louis-Marie de Montfort and Blessed Marie Louise Trichet, the Daughters of Wisdom established their presence in Litchfield in 1949 by creating a novitiate in a rural farmhouse, a training center for young women interested in joining the order of the Daughters of Wisdom.” The farmhouse still stands on the current property. In the 1960s, as the order grew the adjacent, expansive brick building was built and later became Wisdom House, an interfaith retreat and conference center.</p><p>Through the past 75 years, the Daughters have significantly contributed to health care, education, spiritual development, and charitable efforts throughout the local region. Their work in Litchfield includes involvement with their brother community, the Montfort Missionaries at the Shrine of Lourdes in Litchfield.</p><p>Today Wisdom House is a well-recognized retreat and conference center that welcomes thousands of people, offering hospitality as well as programs in spirituality, wellness, the arts, education, social justice, and ecology for individuals, as well as academic, civic, nonprofit, and business organizations. “Every year, we welcome people of all backgrounds and beliefs,” stated executive director Deborah Kelly. “Remarks and special displays on October 5th&nbsp;will reflect on the notably rich history of the Center, plus recognition of their 75 years of contributions to the Litchfield County region, and a review of events through the decades that have honored the spiritual and charitable work of the Daughters of Wisdom.”</p><p>During the October 5th&nbsp;Open House, several sisters from the Daughters of Wisdom order will provide insights into the history of Wisdom House along with other special guests.</p><p>Between 3:00 and 5:00 p.m. on October 5th, visitors will be invited to view special exhibits created for this 75th&nbsp;celebration and to stroll through the Retreat and Conference Center and across the beautiful grounds in the rural Litchfield Hills countryside.</p><p>Wisdom House Retreat and Conference Center is at 229 East Litchfield Road in Litchfield. The October 5th&nbsp;Open House event is free. Reservations are not required but are encouraged by visiting&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wisdomhouse.org/programs" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(70, 120, 134);">www.wisdomhouse.org/programs</a>&nbsp;or calling Wisdom House at 860-567-3163.</p><p>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p>

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Why Small Businesses Matter: Aquila's Nest Vineyards

<h2><strong style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Why Small Businesses Matter</strong></h2><p><em style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Shop small, do big things for your community</em></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Why Small Businesses Matter puts a spotlight on the local merchants who donate their time, talent, goods, and services for the betterment of our community. The shop local movement spreads virally as local businesses who are “tagged” have the opportunity to share their story!</span></p><p><strong style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Meet Neviana Zhgaba, Founder &amp; Co-owner of </strong><a href="http://aquilasnestvineyards.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204); background-color: transparent;"><strong>Aquila's Nest Vineyards</strong></a><strong style="color: rgb(0, 102, 204);">.</strong></p><h2><strong style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;"><em>&nbsp;We don’t just bottle wine, We bottle experiences.</em></strong></h2><p><strong style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Tell me about Aquila’s Nest Vineyards - the history and mission.</strong></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Aquila's Nest Vineyards, a 41-acre experience-focused winery is the brainchild of enophiles, Neviana Zhgaba and Ardian Llomi, who purchased the former 200-year-old farm in 2016. Drawing on their Mediterranean heritage, the Aquila’s Nest Vineyard experience intermingles mythology, art and wine to create a story that will define the guest experience from the moment one enters the driveway, to the first peak of the Mediterranean statues in front of the winery entrance.</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Ardian and Neviana both grew up in Albania, a country in the crossroads of Italian, Slavic, Turkish and Greek traditions. Ardian was raised in the Albanian countryside, where fruticulture and farming was part of everyday life. Throughout the period of the winemaking process, many families of the community would get together to taste the old wines, share winemaking best practices, bring up discussions from many other areas of life and talk about what they could do better as a community.&nbsp;</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Even though they had been working in the industrial and technology space for over 10 years, it’s always been a dream of theirs to own farmland, plant a vineyard, operate a small winery and embrace the farming lifestyle. After creating a family and having two young boys, Ardian and Neviana were then envisioning to build up something unique for the Fairfield County community.&nbsp;</span></p><p><strong style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Your wines are said to be deeply rooted in history, with a strong connection to women at their core. Can you explain?</strong></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Empowered Women, Empower Women. That's what we stand for at Aquila's Nest. After all, our wines are named after women from ancient Mediterranean history and mythology; diverse women of science, arts and sports are celebrated all over the interior décor of our winery.</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">All our wines are branded with the image of a constellation, the name of a woman drawn from an ancient Mediterranean myth, the inscription of a wisdom Latin phrase translated into English on the back of the label, as well as a unique wine cup design of the story that brings all these elements together. Our planted vines span across 10 acres of sun kissed vineyards where in 2019 we enjoyed our first harvest, now offering 9 wines seasonally.</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Entertaining guests with various wine pairing events, providing intimate fire pits and outdoor seating, promoting local women and minority-owned businesses, and creating community connections have been a focus at Aquila’s Nest Vineyards since their October 2020 debut. We don’t just bottle wine, We bottle experiences.</span></p><p><strong style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">The Vineyard has received accolades! Can you share your awards?&nbsp;</strong></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Aquila's Nest Vineyards has received several recognitions for its exceptional wines and outstanding winery experience.</span></p><ul><li><span style="background-color: transparent;">National Small Business Award Winner 2024: Connecticut Manufacturer of the Year</span></li><li><span style="background-color: transparent;">US Chamber of Commerce Top 70 Small Businesses in America 2023 Award. Aquila's Nest Vineyards was one of 70 small businesses across the country, and only one of two from Connecticut to receive this recognition out of 15,000 businesses. The Chamber’s “America’s Top Small Business Awards” celebrates the pioneers of innovation, entrepreneurship, and community engagement.</span></li><li><span style="background-color: transparent;">Best Winery in CT 2024, Finalist by Connecticut Magazine</span></li><li><span style="background-color: transparent;">Best Winery in CT 2023, Winner by Connecticut Magazine</span></li></ul><p><strong style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">How many local businesses do you use to support your business (products and services) and can you name them?</strong></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Since October 2020 we are proud of having hosted thousands of visitors while partnering with so many members of our community:&nbsp;</span></p><ul><li><span style="background-color: transparent;">Partnered and empowered 80+ women-owned businesses to create unique local wine and crafts/arts/food experiences for our guests.&nbsp;</span></li></ul><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">We are proud to continuously partner with so many local women-owned businesses including:</span></p><ul><li><span style="background-color: transparent;">Loree's Fine Food</span></li><li><span style="background-color: transparent;">BE Chocolat</span></li><li><span style="background-color: transparent;">Rowanwood Farm</span></li><li><span style="background-color: transparent;">Bradley Mountain Farms</span></li><li><span style="background-color: transparent;">Painted by the Shore</span></li><li><span style="background-color: transparent;">Annie's Party</span></li><li><span style="background-color: transparent;">Imaginarium by Elissa</span></li><li><span style="background-color: transparent;">Olive My Skin</span></li><li><span style="background-color: transparent;">HV Kintsugi</span></li><li><span style="background-color: transparent;">Mommy's Board Silly</span></li><li><span style="background-color: transparent;">Interlinked</span></li><li><span style="background-color: transparent;">A.W.E Events with Flory Hiatrides</span></li><li><span style="background-color: transparent;">Herbs Love and Yoga</span></li><li><span style="background-color: transparent;">Yoga Space</span></li><li><span style="background-color: transparent;">Lauren Chiarello Pilates</span></li><li><span style="background-color: transparent;">Sharon Poarch Yoga</span></li><li><span style="background-color: transparent;">Healings with Tina</span></li><li><span style="background-color: transparent;">Wild Heart Boutique</span></li><li><span style="background-color: transparent;">Plain and Fancy Boutique</span></li><li><span style="background-color: transparent;">Jewelry Cafe</span></li><li><span style="background-color: transparent;">Dobry Market etc.</span></li></ul><p><strong style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Tell me about your live performances and community/nonprofit partnerships</strong></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Live music performances take place year-round, Thursday through Sunday in the summer and fall seasons. We have hosted 650+ music performances, promoting local musicians.&nbsp;</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">We have promoted the arts by hosting outdoor sculpture exhibits with the Culture Alliance of Western Connecticut, dance performances with Pilobolus, Ballaro Dance, Sacred Heart University Dance program, Ashurst Academy of Irish Dance, music performances with Western Connecticut State University Jazz program, Ridgefield Symphony Orchestra etc. We have supported 580+ local nonprofits and charitable organizations with raffle certificates, donations, and fundraiser sponsorships.</span></p><p><strong style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Have you "reimagined" your small business?</strong></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Aquila's Nest Vineyards opened at the end of October 2020, at the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic, and due to circumstances beyond our control, we also opened our doors right at the start of the winter season - the end of the winery season.</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Even though our main product remains the same: wine, we make new vintages every year as well as new blends, new mixed drink offerings like sangria and slushies, and we continuously promote and market our latest offerings to our guests.</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">We know that the product is not the only reason why guests come to a vineyard. That's why we change our seating experiences every season, and upgrade them every year. Most of these adaptations were propelled by the pandemic, as a necessity to bring guests to get together in safe outdoor environments, socially distanced.&nbsp;</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Currently we offer the following seating experiences for our guests: a private Forbidden Fireplace, Pergola with Fire Pits, Fairy Gazebos, Igloo Spheres, Patio Circle with Umbrellas, Fire Pit Circles, Luxury Picnic Winderland, as well as free seating in our eclectic baby grand piano Indoor Tasting Room, as well as outdoor Picnic Table Area.</span></p><p><strong style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Anything you want the community to know?</strong></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Guests visit a winery for more than just to drink good wine and enjoy the views, they also look for additional experiences like arts, crafts and music. We're the only vineyard in Connecticut and one of the few in the United States that have a very substantial list of activities to offer our guests on a weekly basis. This again was a focus area that grew as a necessity of the Covid19 pandemic.</span></p><p><a href="http://aquilasnestvineyards.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204); background-color: transparent;">Aquila's Nest Vineyards</a><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;"> is located at 56 Pole Bridge Road in Newtown.</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Follow along on social media:</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Instagram @</span><a href="https://www.instagram.com/aquilasnestvineyards/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204); background-color: transparent;">aquilasnestvineyards</a><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;"> and Facebook @</span><a href="https://www.facebook.com/AquilasNestWine" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204); background-color: transparent;">AquilasNestWine</a></p><p><strong style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">HamletHub thanks</strong><a href="http://www.jkinfordbeautygroup.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204); background-color: transparent;"><strong> </strong></a><a href="https://www.fairfieldcountybank.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204); background-color: transparent;"><strong>Fairfield County Bank </strong></a><strong style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">for making our Why Small Businesses Matter series possible!</strong></p><p><br></p>

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