Your guide to the heart of Litchfield County:
Discover local stories, hidden gems, and must-know events.

Maurice Steinberg Presents The Final Baton
A Conductor’s Farewell to the Podium

By Clementina Verge

For nearly 17 years, Maurice Steinberg led the Torrington Symphony Orchestra with an unwavering commitment to musical excellence and a profound appreciation for every note. Contemplating his final performance in May at the Nancy Marine Studio Theatre, Steinberg reflects on a legacy that spanned not just decades, but a community’s heart. 

“It’s been a total pleasure and a most fulfilling end to my career,” he notes, speaking of his deep connection with musicians, audiences, and countless students he nurtured throughout 45 years as a music teacher in the Litchfield Public School system and at Wamogo High School (now known as Lakeview High).
A longtime Litchfield resident, Steinberg’s journey with the orchestra began unexpectedly in November 2008. Stepping in for an ailing conductor, he quickly found his place, leading with a blend of musical theory insight, passion, and emotional intelligence. Under his direction, the orchestra’s repertoire grew to include everything from Baroque and Classical works to contemporary pop hits, captivating a wide range of audiences.

Harris Daigle, orchestra board of directors president and bassist, applauds Steinberg’s approach and “innovative leadership,” noting his unique ability to connect personally with each musician. 

“He went beyond just conducting,” Daigle says, “building a rapport and fostering a sense of unity within the ensemble.”

Though retiring from the podium, Steinberg plans to continue performing with the orchestra, while also enjoying more time with his wife, children, and grandchildren—torringtonsymphony.org

ASAP! Celebrates Possibilities

ASAP! Celebrates Possibilities will take place on Saturday, May 31, from 5:30 to 8 pm at Spring Hill Vineyards. This annual fundraiser is both a joyous celebration and a vital source of support for the arts-infused educational programming that ASAP! provides to Connecticut youth. By attending, you help create a world where young people’s passion for learning is ignited.

The evening will feature live performances by the ASAP! Youth Ensemble, original works shared on stage by top-selected Young Writers, and a Young Photographers exhibition.

Hosted by Ellen McCourt, the event will honor founder JoAnne Torti for her remarkable 26-year legacy, and welcome incoming executive director Ali Psomas. Join us to celebrate ASAP!’s rich history and exciting future.

Families are welcome. Attire: casual cocktail.

• 5:30 pm — Check-in, snacks, and open bar
• 6 pm — Performances
• 7 pm — Open bar, food, and exhibit

ASAP! extends its deepest thanks to presenting sponsor Simon & Schuster, visionary sponsor Elizabeth R. Rea, and event sponsors Peggy and Keith Anderson, Arbor Services of CT, Aspetuck Animal Hospital, Baker Law Firm, Coldwell Banker — Todd P. Sargent, Criana, Fineline Theater Arts, Gallagher Insurance, Litchfield Magazine, National Iron Bank, New Morning Market, The Pantry, Paramount Professional Roofing, Spring Hill Vineyards, Washington Montessori School, William Raveis Lifestyles Realty, and William Pitt Sotheby’s International Realty.

The Vital Role of Wetlands

Photo By: Theo Coulombe

Catherine Rawson is the executive director of Northwest Connecticut Land Conservancy (NCLC) and a board member of the Connecticut Land Conservation Council. She holds degrees in environmental law and management from Vermont Law School and Yale. Previously, she served as an assistant attorney general for Connecticut. Since 2011, she has led NCLC’s regional growth, partnerships, and conservation efforts, securing accreditation and expanding financial reserves to $8.7 million. Her 20-plus years in environmental work include roles in law, nonprofit management, and education.

1: What exactly are wetlands, and why are they important? Wetlands are places where water covers the soil or is present near the surface for at least part of the year. They include marshes, swamps, vernal pools, flood plains, and coastal estuaries. Wetlands are essential to human and community health, and play a vital role in filtering pollutants and preventing floods. They are also amongst Earth’s most biologically diverse ecosystems, sustaining unique plants, amphibians, birds, and fish. In Connecticut, wetlands maintain the quality of our rivers, lakes, and drinking water, while serving as a natural defense against the impacts of climate change. 

2: How do wetlands contribute to water quality in Connecticut? Wetlands act as nature’s water filters, trapping pollutants and heavy metals before they reach our rivers, lakes, residential wells, and Long Island Sound. By improving water quality, wetlands support healthier ecosystems and drinking water sources. According to the New England Forestry Foundation, the water filtration services provided by the region’s forests, including wetlands, are valued at about $157 million annually. 

3: How do wetlands help mitigate climate change? Wetlands are powerful carbon sinks, meaning they store carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and help regulate greenhouse gases. They also absorb and slow floodwaters, reducing storm damage. Coastal wetlands protect shorelines from rising sea levels and storm surges.

4: What types of wildlife rely on Connecticut’s wetlands? Many species depend on wetlands. Migratory birds like great blue herons and wood ducks use them for nesting and feeding. Amphibians such as frogs and salamanders breed in vernal pools, which are temporary wetlands that appear in the spring. Mammals like beavers and otters make wetlands their homes. In fact, Connecticut’s wetlands are often rich in biodiversity, with rare and endangered species you will not see anywhere else. You can look for these species, and many more, by exploring your local land trust’s public hiking trails, such as NCLC’s Wimisink Preserve in Sherman, which features an ADA-accessible boardwalk along a scenic wetland. 

5: Are wetlands in Connecticut at risk? Yes. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service estimates that Connecticut lost 74% of its original wetlands between the 1780s and 1980s. Development, pollution, and climate change continue to threaten our wetlands. While Connecticut has wetland protection laws, ongoing conservation efforts are essential.

6: How can residents help protect wetlands in their communities? People can help in many ways! Plant native vegetation to reduce erosion and protect water quality. Avoid using chemical fertilizers and pesticides, as this kind of runoff harms our native ecosystems. Support local conservation groups that protect wetlands, and advocate for strong environmental policies. But, most importantly, spread awareness—help others understand why wetlands are essential to Connecticut’s environment and future.—ctland.org

Dorothy Spears: A Life in Art

Dorothy Spears’ passion for art began in high school, when she first encountered Georgia O’Keeffe’s watercolors. She went on to study art and art history at Brown University and the Rhode Island School of Design, later continuing her education at Parsons School of Design in Paris and SUNY Purchase.

Her career in the art world has spanned decades, including work at the renowned Leo Castelli Gallery and as a writer for The New York Times, where she covered art and culture. Her writing has also appeared in The Art Newspaper, ARTnews, Vogue, and The Atlantic, among many other publications. She is the author of Art Tarts: An Indiscreet Tour of the 1980s Art World and the editor of Flight Patterns: A Century of Stories About Flying (Grove Press, 2009).

Spears has long championed the creative process, both as a journalist and as a painter. Having just had an exhibition at the Cornwall Library, she has fulfilled a lifelong dream: showcasing her own watercolor paintings, which reflect her deep connection to nature and personal narrative.

She lives in Warren with her husband, artist Alexis Rockman, where they share a studio and a life devoted to art, conversation, and the landscape that inspires them.

Tucked into the scenic hills of Litchfield, Connecticut, Litchfield Montessori School offers a learning environment where nature and education go hand in hand. Grounded in traditional Montessori philosophy, the school serves children from toddler through elementary years, fostering independence, curiosity, and a deep respect for the world around them.

One of the school’s defining features is its commitment to outdoor learning. From their earliest days on campus, students are encouraged to explore the natural world. With classroom doors opening directly into outdoor spaces, children move seamlessly between indoor and outdoor work.

Daily recess and outdoor physical education are core parts of the experience. Toddlers and primary students enjoy time on the playground, while Lower Elementary students gravitate to the woods, building creative, child – led communities in the nearby forest.  As they grow, boundaries are expanded allowing Upper Elementary students to venture further into the woods, gaining both freedom and responsibility. These activities encourage leadership, teambuilding, and problem-solving.

The wilderness program is a key part of the curriculum and philosophy of whole child wellness, reflecting Maria Montessori’s belief that children learn best through direct experiences, becoming self-directed, motivated learners. Whether identifying animal tracks, cooking over a fire, or climbing ropes during outdoor challenges, students engage their senses and build practical skills. These experiences help develop confidence, resilience, and a lasting connection to the natural world.

Outdoor learning also supports emotional and cognitive growth. Time in nature fosters creativity, reduces stress, and improves focus, while fostering connection to self by allowing time and space for self-reflection. At Litchfield Montessori, the playground is seen as an extension of the classroom—a place where children practice critical thinking, social negotiation, and physical coordination.

This summer, the school plans to break ground on a brand-new playground designed with input from Montessori-trained faculty. Thanks to generous community support and outside funding, this new space will enhance outdoor learning and play for all age levels. It will be a vibrant, creative area where students continue to grow through movement, exploration, and connection.

As Litchfield Montessori looks to the future, the school remains dedicated to the idea that the best learning happens when children are given the freedom to explore—with guidance, trust, and the beauty of nature all around them.—litchfieldmontessori.org

Washington Supply: A Trusted Name in Outdoor Living and Garden Expertise

A staple in the community for over a century, Washington Supply Company has been serving Litchfield County with unmatched quality and service for 132 years. As a full-service lumber yard and hardware store, the business expanded in 2006 to include a dedicated Lawn, Garden, and Outdoor Living Center—bringing the same trusted expertise to every aspect of outdoor life.

Located in the heart of Washington, the center has become a go-to destination for homeowners looking to create beautiful and functional outdoor spaces. From professional consultations to expert product knowledge, Washington Supply offers a complete and seamless customer experience. With free assembly, white-glove delivery service, and a carefully curated selection of high-quality outdoor furniture, grills, and accessories, they make it easy to transform any backyard or patio into a retreat.

We spoke with the team at Washington Supply to learn more about their offerings and what makes their Garden and Outdoor Living Center so special.

1. What types of services do you provide?
We offer professional consultation and expert product knowledge on all things garden and outdoor living. Our team helps guide customers from the planning stage to final setup. We also provide free assembly and delivery, along with white glove service on furniture and grills.

2. What inspired you to launch the Garden and Outdoor Living Center?
We wanted to provide a full-service, start-to-finish product buying experience. Since we already offered everything to complete the entire home, it made sense to offer the best for outdoor living as well.

3. What makes your garden center and outdoor showroom unique?
Our product selection really sets us apart. We carry organic soils, fertilizers, and garden tools, as well as high-end outdoor furniture and grills. We’re a stocking dealer for Kingsley Bate teak and wicker, Breezesta composite furniture, Weber, and Big Green Egg grills. We also offer tabletop décor and gifts in our outdoor living showroom.

4. Do you host any events or offer seasonal changes?
Absolutely! One of the most exciting changes each year is our transformation from a warm-weather outdoor entertaining center to a full Christmas shop. It’s something our customers look forward to.

5. What advice do you have for customers designing their outdoor spaces?
Don’t overthink it. Keep it simple. We’re always here to help. As many of our customers have told us, “You make it so easy.”

6. What’s your favorite part about being part of the Litchfield County community?
Litchfield County offers a wonderful quality of life. It’s beautiful, peaceful, and full of character. We love helping residents enhance their properties and enjoy their outdoor spaces even more.—washingtonsupply.com

Design, Build, and Maintain your Outdoor Haven

Haab Landscaping, LLC is a full-service landscape construction and maintenance company owned by Jeff and Sawyer Haab. Founded by Jeff in 2003 while studying landscape design at SUNY Cobleskill, the business has grown to offer a wide range of services—from patios and fencing to mowing and snow removal. Jeff and Sawyer work side by side, managing everything from office operations to on-site projects with hands-on dedication and care.

1. What inspired you to start this business, and what do you love most about it?
The inspiration came early—Jeff grew up helping maintain the Haab family farm in Millerton, NY. That experience, along with working for other landscaping companies as a teenager and taking landscape courses through FFA at Housatonic Valley Regional High School, helped shape the business. We love creating and caring for outdoor spaces that bring people joy.

4. How does your garden center stand out from others in the area?
As a smaller, family-run company, we prioritize strong relationships with our customers. We’re accessible, responsive, and committed to meeting each client’s needs promptly and personally.

5. What’s your favorite part about being part of the Litchfield County community?
Though our business is based in Millerton, our family lives in Litchfield County, where we grew up. We love this area and feel fortunate to work on projects that help clients enjoy the natural beauty and serenity of their surroundings.

6. What are the top three trending plants this spring, and why are they popular?
In spring, flowering favorites like Rhododendrons, Lilacs, and Magnolia trees are always in demand for their striking blooms. We recommend planting these in the fall so they’re ready to shine come spring.
Looking ahead to summer, hydrangeas and butterfly bushes remain popular for their long-lasting blooms. This season, we’re seeing particular interest in the ‘Incrediball’ and ‘Grateful Red’ hydrangeas, as well as the colorful ‘Kaleidoscope’ butterfly bush.

7. What’s the best way to prepare a garden for spring planting?
Start by considering the type of garden you want: Do you enjoy gardening or prefer low maintenance? Think about the colors, textures, and whether native plants are a priority. Also, make sure your selections will thrive in your environment—considering pets, wildlife, soil, and sunlight. Test your soil to ensure it’s healthy, and clean up any debris from the fall or winter. Thoughtful planning makes all the difference—and we’re always happy to help clients through the process. haablandscaping.com 

66 Skunks Misery Rd Millerton NY 12546

Kent Greenhouse & Gardens has been a leader in landscape design, installation, and estate care for decades, offering everything from customized outdoor spaces to in-house pool design and construction. As part of the Mariani Premier Group, the company is dedicated to creating exceptional outdoor living environments. We had the opportuniyy to speak with Darrell Cherniske, a seasoned landscape professional with over 30 years of experience and a background in landscape architecture from Cornell University. In this Q&A, Darrell shares insights into what sets Kent Greenhouse apart, its commitment to quality craftsmanship, and how the team helps clients bring their outdoor visions to life.

1. What makes Kent Greenhouse & Gardens unique in the landscape design and installation industry?

We offer a seamless, full-service experience—designing, building, and maintaining landscapes and outdoor living spaces, including pools and patios, with expert care to ensure long-term beauty and functionality.

2. What types of clients do you typically work with, and what are they looking for in a landscape partner?

We serve a broad array of clients from those who have established landscapes that require comprehensive care to those seeking an exciting new design or broad scale renovation.  Our clients are looking for a team to handle all of their needs anchored by top quality, value, and collaborative communication.

3. What trends or changes have you noticed in your industry recently? 

Clients are looking for landscapes and property care regimens that are more sustainable and budget friendly without sacrificing functionality and creativity.

4. How are you helping clients transition from traditional lawns to more sustainable meadowscapes

We have worked with several clients to reduce the volume of weekly mowed turf in favor of establishing sustainable meadowscapes.  It requires a minimum of three years, but the effects are long-lasting with periodic maintenance and properly calibrated expectations.

5. What sustainable practices do you recommend for eco-friendly gardening? 

Proper plant selection is more critical than ever in the face of climate, pest, and disease pressures.  The reduction of turf and the use of auto-mowers can be part of an eco-friendly management plan for a property. Letting go of the notion that a garden can or needs to be perfect at all times is a healthy trend. 

6. How can property owners create resilient, ever-evolving landscapes?

Accelerating environmental challenges are an opportunity to construct more resilient landscapes that harness the adaptability of natural systems over time.  Property owners should view their landscapes as a constantly evolving ecosystem where surprises can often bring more reward than striving for an unrealistic sense of static perfection.

Tucked along Litchfield Road in New Milford, The Green Spot is a locally owned garden center known for its thoughtful selection of organic plants—from quirky and unusual finds to timeless classics and beloved natives. Owned by Chris Bruzzi, The Green Spot goes beyond plants, offering expert landscape design, build, and installation services, including masonry and maintenance. With a passion for beauty and sustainability, The Green Spot helps bring outdoor spaces to life across Litchfield County and beyond.

1. What inspired you to start your business, and how did your experience lead you here?

The Garden Center grew out of many years of providing landscaping services in the community. Collaborating with architects and designers to bring clients’ visions to life deepened our appreciation for the connection between people and nature. We’ve seen firsthand how plants can be truly transformative—turning outdoor spaces into personal sanctuaries.

2. What sets your services or products apart from others in the industry?
   We approach each project organically, holistically, and respectfully. Each landscape is characteristically unique, and it’s important to us and our clients to highlight those qualities in an organic, sustainable, healthy way. We are a hardworking, passionate team that thrives on collaboration with our clients and nature.
3. Who is your typical client, and how do you cater to their specific needs?
   Our clients range from friendly locals coming in for a few vegetable plants to someone needing a full master plan of a property brought to life. Everyone receives our attention, and the importance of all our actions—big or small—has an impact on the planet and how we are all connected.
4. What trends or changes have you noticed in your industry recently?
   We’re excited to see more people interested in native plantings. Not surprisingly, there’s a growing interest in understanding the importance of environmental purpose and being stewards to the land. We’re also inspired by the growing number of homeowners starting vegetable gardens and orchards.
5. Can you share a success story or project transformation that you’re particularly proud of? We have worked on some challenging sites with steep topography. One site comes to mind where we were able to bring to life this incredible design that provided the site useful access to the lake, incorporated many pollinator-friendly plants, and had year-long interest. It all came together harmoniously. It’s incredibly heartwarming to have people take the time to stop and comment on the properties we’ve worked on. After a project is done, it’s amazing how the impact is appreciated by so many others. It’s humbling but reassuring that we’re doing something right.

6. What sustainable practices do you recommend for eco-friendly gardening?
   That’s a great question! We recommend starting with the soil quality. This will influence the trajectory of the garden with clean, nutrient-dense soil.
7. Anything else you think is important to share with our readers?
   We are so grateful for all the clients, architects, and designers we are able to work with. If you can dream it or have an image in mind that you want to bring to life, we look forward to helping you achieve those dreams. We thrive best in those collaborative relationships.-thegreenspotnewmilford.com

Scott’s Nursery & Landscaping is a full-service design and build firm, featuring a six-acre, award-winning garden center. Specializing in landscape and hardscape design, the company also provides maintenance and gardening services. Established over 25 years ago, Scott’s has recently entered a new chapter under the ownership of three long-standing employees—Colleen Purcell, Jared Knecht, and Jose Tacuri. Five years ago, these dedicated professionals took the reins, combining their expertise to continue the legacy and evolve the business.

1. What makes your garden center unique compared to others in the area?
   Scott’s Nursery is a fun and inspiring place to explore nature. Our full-service garden center features a wide selection of trees, shrubs, perennials, annuals, tropicals, veggies, herbs, tools, pottery, statuary, mulch, and more. We love to reuse, so you’ll find many unique, recycled, upcycled, and repurposed items throughout the yard. Our ever-changing display gardens are creative and inspiring, with surprises around every corner.
2. What’s one piece of expert advice you always share with your customers?
   My favorite piece of advice is “The right plant for the right place!” Success is much easier when you aren’t trying to fit a plant into an unsuitable environment. Our nursery offers a wide variety, but speaking with our staff and sharing key details about your space—like sun exposure, space size, and how much time you have for care—can lead to great results.
3. What’s your favorite flowering plant for adding color to a garden?
   We love hydrangeas! Available in various sizes, hydrangeas provide months of showy blooms. For small gardens or containers, try Little Quick Fire Hydrangea, which grows to about 2’x 2’. Little Lime Punch, the 2025 hydrangea of the year, offers gorgeous multi-colored blooms into fall. For larger spaces, Limelight Hydrangea grows 8’x 8’ and thrives in shady corners.
4. What eco-friendly or sustainable gardening products do you recommend?
   Our most popular mulch, Sweet Peet, is 100% organic, composted agricultural manure. It’s excellent for water retention, pH balancing, weed control, and soil enrichment. We also offer premium mulches like our triple-shed bark, sourced directly from Vermont sawmills, with no added fillers or dyes. Unlike bagged mulches from big-box stores, our mulches are free of chemicals and pesticides, promoting healthier gardens.
5. Are there any new garden design trends you’re seeing this year?
   Native plants are “growing” in popularity! This year, Scott’s has greatly expanded our native plant offerings, dedicating a large section of the nursery to native species, including shrubs, perennials, and trees. We’re passionate about preserving and protecting the environment, and we’re proud to contribute by providing a diverse range of native plants for our customers to add to their gardens. scottsnurseryandlandscaping.com