The Chefs’ Warehouse, whose Corporate Headquarters are located in Ridgefield, recently marked its 40th anniversary, solidifying its reputation for providing the highest quality food items to restaurants, hotels, country clubs, and specialty food stores. Additionally, The Chefs’ Warehouse strives to be a part of every community they operate in; giving back, educating, supporting, and inspiring. The social impact that The Chefs’ Warehouse brings to these communities goes beyond just a donation. It sets an example, raises the bar, and brings awareness, care, and support to areas that need help. From the progressive working culture within the walls of The Chefs’ Warehouse to the neighborhood streets their trucks drive on, they are dedicated to being a part of the community and proud to support charitable organizations and worthy causes.
Here in the 068, The Chefs’ Warehouse has supported the Ridgefield High School Culinary Program by donating proteins, produce, pastries, and branded supply items. They also support Ridgefield Restaurant Week and local green initiatives with partners like World Centric compostables. They sponsored the Ridgefield Softball League and the Ridgefield Garden Tour. The Chefs’ Warehouse is committed to uplifting the community so it was only natural that 068 Magazine looked to them to sponsor our first Have You Met? Community All Stars.
For Jill Rae, owner and Principal Designer of Jill Rae Designs, and Heather Salaga, licensed Real Estate Salesperson with Houlihan Lawrence, community is a core value in both of their businesses. One cause they’re passionate about is Housatonic Habitat for Humanity (HHFH). Between real estate and design, they bring hands-on experience to the organization’s work in home improvement, education, and support for first-time homeowners. Four years ago, Jill founded “Blueprints & Denim Jeans” an annual gala to support HHFH, and two years later, invited Heather to co-lead. Together, they’ve grown the event, increasing both visibility and support for the local Habitat chapter. Right now, Jill and several local vendors are donating time, expertise, and materials to build The Jill Rae Home—an accessible residence for a family in need. Habitat for Humanity’s annual gala will be held this year on October 23rd. To volunteer, please visit the local HHFH chapter. Interested in the gala? Contact Jill (203-240-9054) or Heather (203-770-8591).
Lori Mazzola has been in the veterinary field since 2009. When she retired last year, she continued her passion for helping animals by volunteering with Foundacion Perros Sin Nombre, a non-profit animal shelter in Honduras that assists under-served communities with their pets and helps to reduce the overpopulation of street animals. Lori has flown to Honduras twice to participate in spay and neuter clinics. While at a clinic in Honduras this past January, an owner brought in a dog named Trooper who had been hit by a scooter. Trooper’s leg was severely damaged. PSN’s volunteer doctors and surgeons offered to perform the necessary surgery free of charge. Unfortunately, the owners weren’t able to care for the dog, so PSN paid for his transport to ROAR here in Ridgefield to recover. Trooper will be up for adoption once his heartworm treatment is complete. Lori will be traveling back to Honduras in August for another clinic. To support PSN’s continued efforts, please visit perossinnombre.org. Donations can also be made to ROAR to offset medical costs for Trooper.
Amanda Cordano and her husband have lived in Ridgefield since 1999, raising their three children—Claire, Anabel, and Christopher—alongside a rotating cast of sweet dogs. She’s the Executive Director of Ms President US, a nonprofit that inspires girls to lead, and she serves on the League of Women Voters of Ridgefield board. She’s been involved with CT Against Gun Violence, the local Democratic Town Committee, and delivering Meals on Wheels (a tradition passed down from her grandmother).
Bringing civic engagement home is at the heart of what she does. She believes in voter education, supporting pro-choice women in politics, and showing young people that their voices matter. Ms President US is the perfect blend of education and action. She was drawn to its mission instantly and loves seeing girls find their voices and create change in their communities.
To get involved, visit mspresidentus.org, or rlwv.org, or any of the other fantastic nonprofits that make the Ridgefield community so vibrant!
Dr. Blaine Langberg has been in Ridgefield for 23 years, during which time his orthodontist practice has been instrumental in perfecting the smiles of many of the town’s teens. Dr. Langberg’s own children grew up here which has led to his connection to programs that benefit area youths. His office collaborates with Mike Flynn of Boys & Girls Club to sponsor the Turkey Trot each year, as well as support a child for their summer camp program and underwrite an ice cream truck social each year. Dr. Langberg also is involved with The ABC house, a program that gives academically-gifted young women of color the opportunity to receive a premier high school education. Dr. Langberg donates his orthodontic services to help ABC house teenagers – giving her the gift of a beautiful and healthy smile. “It’s very important to me and my family to give back, in multiple ways, to the community in which I live and practice,” says Dr. Langberg.
Jeremy Stein has lived in the area for over 20 years. He was a practicing litigator when the Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting happened in 2012. A survivor of gun violence himself, Jeremy felt compelled to action. He has since left legal work to devote his energies to preventing gun violence. Jeremy was named Executive Director CT Against Gun Violence from 2017 to 2024. In this role, he worked to draft, lobby, and implement gun laws that have saved lives in CT and around the country. He also educates the public and legislators about the necessity of these laws. Consequently, CT has become one of the safest places to live in America, with the strongest gun laws and lowest gun death rates in the nation. Jeremy helped draft and pass Ethan’s Law (safe storage), open carry and assault-weapons ban, and the creation of the state’s first Offices of Gun Violence Prevention. He currently runs the national organization States United to Prevent Gun Violence.
To get involved, go to www. supgv.org or e-mail jeremy@supgv.org
In 1908, Mark Twain moved to Redding, CT. To give his new neighbors a window to a wider world, he donated 3000 of his own books to start a library. Determined townsfolk did the rest, and the Mark Twain Library was born. Then and now, the library survives on the backs of volunteers; fund-raising is a full-time job and requires an army of dedicated hands.
Pam Robey and Jen Wastrom have been committed volunteers for the past 25 years. Both are longstanding trustees, have served as president, and together co-chaired the library’s overall development efforts.
A decade ago, Pam and Jen – along with their friend actor/comedian Michael Ian Black – launched The Pudd’nhead Prize Gala. This annual funny fundraiser – which lured the likes of Jon Hamm, Paul Rudd, Seth Meyers, and Jim Gaffigan to Redding – has raised a significant revenue.
Pam and Jen have continued to be inspired by Mark Twain’s vision and humorous spirit.
Tony Philips has a strong connection to the 068 area – he grew up and has worked most of his career in Fairfield County. “I am 068,” he jokes. Helping others has always been in his nature, so it is only fitting that he’s the Director of Ridgefield’s Social Services. His efforts combating food insecurity in town have made a huge difference. Every month, he oversees supplementing the food needs for over 230 Ridgefield residents by providing gift cards so that they can shop at local grocery stores. “I meet with people who are struggling financially, with mental or health issues, or employment problems. I try to reduce their stress and provide some hope,” says Tony. All the programs and services offered by Social Services/Food Pantry are funded through grants and donations. Anyone interested in donating can reach out to Tony at socialservices@ridgefieldct.gov.
Melissa Knauer has been the Executive Pastry Chef at The Benjamin Ridgefield since its opening in 2023. It’s been a great fit—both creatively and professionally. Melissa makes a difference by mentoring and guiding her kitchen team every day. For her, success isn’t just about the desserts or entrees they serve – it’s about the people she helps shape along the way.
Giving back to the community is a core part of what Melissa does at The Benjamin. They’ve supported local organizations and causes such as Kicks for Kids, ROAR, and the Kids in Crisis Fundraiser, and regularly donate to school PTAs and events like RIFF. They were proud to honor local heroes during First Responder Month, including hosting awards ceremonies to recognize their service this November. Currently, they provide vendor meals for the Ridgefield Playhouse during shows. “I genuinely relish giving back to the Ridgefield community in every possible way,” says Melissa. “It’s all about lifting each other up and passing on the craft with care and passion.”
Kathy Graham has always appreciated working for a company, Fairfield County Bank, that encourages their employees to give back to the community. Kathy currently volunteers with several non-profits in the area including the Rotary Club, Jesse Lee Church Outreach, Ann’s Place, and Hailey’s Day of Kindness. Kathy is also on the Ambassador’s Council for The Center for Empowerment and Education (formerly The Women’s Center). “Many years ago, during a very difficult time, I was helped by a women’s center in another state,” says Kathy. “I know first-hand the life saving and life-changing help that women’s centers offer and I wanted to give back.” Kathy’s main focus has been chairing their SafeWalk event, which will be held this year on October 4th. Her hope is to get many people to participate, especially young people, because she wants them to know, that if they ever need help, The Center is there for them 24/7 with free and confidential services.
O68 Magazine extends our deepest gratitude to Chefs’ Warehouse for their generous sponsorship and unwavering commitment to the community. Your continued support helped bring this incredible feature to life, and your dedication to enriching life in the 068 is felt far and wide.
At the heart of this piece is the inspiring presence of Amanda Gabbard—a true community champion and celebrity makeup artist. Amanda dedicated her time and remarkable talent to ensure everyone featured in this article felt confident, comfortable, and beautiful. Her generosity doesn’t stop there. Amanda regularly offers her expertise at no charge for nonprofit galas, photo shoots, and countless events—too many to name. Her dedication, compassion, and love for the community shine through in everything she does, making her an invaluable part of what makes our town so special.
Finally, to all the Community All Stars featured in this issue—thank you. Your passion, hard work, and everyday contributions help create a more vibrant, supportive, and connected 068. You are the reason our community thrives.
