Thank you for joining us for our first season! We’ve loved sharing dynamic conversations with people in our community, as well as giving you the scoop on exciting events in the area. We appreciate all of the love and support, and can’t wait to see you for Season 2. In the meantime, please, share the podcast with your friends and neighbors!   

For our final episode of Season 1, we are thrilled to have Paul Macarelli on the show! Paul is an actor, writer, and producer whose voice you’ll likely recognize as “the Verizon test guy” from their famous “can you hear me now” commercials.

Paul lives in Litchfield County and we are happy to have him on the podcast to learn about his journey from NYC actor to rural living.

What's Happening with Mary Beth Lawlor connects you with the best of Litchfield County, CT and Northern Dutchess County, NY! Twice a month, we will share interviews with dynamic people in the community, what’s exciting on the food scene, as well as our favorite things to do in the area.

Hosted by Mary Beth Lawlor, editor-in-chief and publisher of Litchfield and Millbrook Magazines.

Find us on Instagram @whatshappening_podcast

Producer/Editor: Laura Hartle
Production Assistant: Zandria Oliver

Things to do in Northern Dutchess County, NY
In Dutchess, it's time again for the Friends of Wethersfield Garden Luncheon on Saturday, September 4th in Amenia, NY! The Friends of Wethersfield Garden Luncheon raises critical funds for the restoration and enhancement of the estate’s 1,000-acre garden and grounds, as well as for the creation of cultural and recreational programming for the community. Tickets can be purchased at wethersfield.org.

On Friday, September 1st - Saturday, September 4th, set your sights on the skies at the 32nd Annual Hudson Valley Hot-Air Balloon Festival in LaGrangeville, NY! This fun-for-all-ages event includes hot-air balloon rides, games, food, and the festival’s signature Illumination and Moon Glow and Fireworks show. Find tickets at dcrcoc.org/balloonfesthv.org.

You’ll find more great things to do in Northern Dutchess County at millbrookmagazine.com/events.

Things to do in Litchfield County, CT
Over in Litchfield County, catch MOMIX presents “Alice” at the Warner Theatre in Washington, CT. “Alice” seamlessly blends illusion, acrobatics, magic and whimsy, sending audiences flying down the rabbit hole in Moses Pendleton’s newest creation, inspired by the Lewis Carroll classic “Alice in Wonderland.” Performances are Saturday, August 26 at 2 PM and 8 PM and Sunday, August 27 at 2 PM. Purchase tickets at warnertheatre.org.

And finally, check out the Gunn Memorial Library & Museum’s Annual Fall Fundraiser on Saturday, September 9th in Washington, CT! Begin the evening with cocktails, hors d’oeuvres and music. Cap off the night with good food, drinks, and more. All for a good cause! Visit gunnlibrary.org/adults/events for more information and tickets.  

You’ll find more great things to do in Litchfield at litchfieldmagazine.com/events.

Show Links:
@paulmacarelli

Music by Kevin Shrout

On this episode, we are excited to chat with Dani Shapiro - a best-selling author with 11 books, two Oprah interviews, one podcast, and many talents to her name. She and her husband, Michael Maren, have called Litchfield County home for many years. We are excited to chat about what’s happening with Dani and see Litchfield County through her eyes.

What's Happening with Mary Beth Lawlor connects you with the best of Litchfield County, CT and Northern Dutchess County, NY! Twice a month, we will share interviews with dynamic people in the community, what’s exciting on the food scene, as well as our favorite things to do in the area.

Hosted by Mary Beth Lawlor, editor-in-chief and publisher of Litchfield and Millbrook Magazines.

Find us on Instagram @whatshappening_podcast

Producer/Editor: Laura Hartle
Production Assistant: Zandria Oliver

Things to do in Northern Dutchess County, NY
The Bard Music Festival returns for its 33rd season with a two-week exploration of the life and work of Ralph Vaughan Willams, one of the 20th century’s preeminent symphonists. August 4th - August 6th and August 10th - August 13th. Visit fishercenter.bard.edu for more info.

On August 12th, Innisfree Garden in Millbrook, NY opens its gates at 4am for stargazers to catch an hour of the Perseids Meteor Shower at its peak. This unforgettable experience culminates in a Sunrise Sound Bath as onlookers watch the sun bring the beautiful landscape to life. For tickets: innisfreegarden.org/events.

And, of course, mark your calendars for the Dutchess County Fair in Rhinebeck, NY, from August 22nd - August 27th. Enjoy music, food, rides, shows, and more! Fair-goers are encouraged to buy tickets at www.dutchessfair.com. 

Things to do in Litchfield County, CT
Check out the Goshen Open Farm Tour in Goshen, CT on  August 5th and August 6th, from 10am - 4pm. Experience “the bounty of the county” on this tour, which highlights the unique and diverse farms that call Goshen home - fifteen different farms to be exact! Visit goshenctagriculture.com for info.

On August 5th from 11:00am – 12:00pm, get ready to Move at the Mayflower Inn in Washington, CT. This exclusive event with The Sculpt Society combines toning exercises with dance cardio for a fun workout. Visit aubergeresorts/mayflower.com for tickets.

If you are looking for a beautiful summer gala in support of the environment, you won’t want to miss the Midsummer Party for Conservation On August 12th at 7pm. The event takes place at the Maywood Estate in Bridgewater, CT and raises support for Northwest Connecticut Land Conservancy. For tickets: ctland.org.

Show Links:
www.danishapiro.com
@daniwriter

Music by Kevin Shrout

On this episode, we are excited to have Charlie Champalimaud join us! Charlie and her husband, Anthony, are the owners of the storied Troutbeck hotel and estate in Amenia, NY, where Charlie serves as the director of culture and programs. You’ll hear about Troutbeck’s surprising history, and how it brings a slice of Europe to Dutchess County.

What's Happening with Mary Beth Lawlor connects you with the best of Litchfield County, CT and Northern Dutchess County, NY! Twice a month, we will share interviews with dynamic people in the community, what’s exciting on the food scene, as well as our favorite things to do in the area.

Hosted by Mary Beth Lawlor, editor-in-chief and publisher of Litchfield and Millbrook Magazines.

Find us on Instagram @whatshappening_podcast

Producer/Editor: Laura Hartle
Production Assistant: Zandria Oliver

Things to do in Northern Dutchess County, NY
In Dutchess, don’t miss Upstate Art Weekend, July 21- July 24, featuring over 130 destinations and artists from across the Hudson Valley. Explore unique installations, galleries, and museums in Dutchess County. 

On Sunday, July 30th, check out Littlest Farmers Market at Hackett Farm Supply in Clinton Corners, NY. This kid-operated farmers market provides a safe, educational space for kids to come together and sell their home-grown products. You’ll find a bit of everything: locally grown fresh produce, flowers, crafts, and herb-infused popsicles!

You’ll find more great things to do in Northern Dutchess County at millbrookmagazine.com/events.

Things to do in Litchfield County, CT
Over in Litchfield County, The annual Litchfield Jazz Festival returns to Washington, CT from  July 28-30 at the Frederick Gunn School.  Guests will hear the Ehud Asherie Trio, the Steve Nelson Quartet, Champian Fulton with Fukushi Tainake on drums and Hide Tanaka on bass, as well as many others will be on hand to delight audiences with their music.

Tickets are available now for one of the most beautiful summer events in Litchfield County. The Midsummer Party for Conservation raises essential support for the Northwest Connecticut Land Conservancy,  the largest land trust in the state. The cocktail and dinner event will be held on August 12th at the amazing estate of Leni and Peter May in Bridgewater, CT. 

Looking ahead to September 9th, Garden lovers should mark their calendars for the Garden Study Weekend Symposium at Hollister House Garden in Washington, CT. This event brings together some of the most important voices in the fields of horticulture and garden design, such as Edwina von Gal, Sam Hoadly, and more. Enjoy a weekend of learning, inspiration, and networking. 

You’ll find more great things to do in Litchfield at litchfieldmagazine.com/events.

Show Links:
https://troutbeck.com
@troutbeck.ny
https://limerock.com
@limerockpark
https://www.skipbarber.com
@skipbarberracing

Music by Kevin Shrout

On this episode, we’re thrilled to have Sarah Chase on the show!  Sarah is a third generation dairy farmer and passionate advocate of sustainable agriculture. She and her brother, Rory, have created a movement at Chaseholm Farm in Pine Plains, New York, and the results speak for themselves - their cheese was recognized on Food & Wine’s list of top 50 American Cheesemakers! We'll learn why you want your milk to be yellow, what the soil-to-table movement looks like, and more.

What's Happening with Mary Beth Lawlor connects you with the best of Litchfield County, CT and Northern Dutchess County, NY! Twice a month, we will share interviews with dynamic people in the community, what’s exciting on the food scene, as well as our favorite things to do in the area.

Hosted by Mary Beth Lawlor, editor-in-chief and publisher of Litchfield and Millbrook Magazines.

Find us on Instagram @whatshappening_podcast

Producer/Editor: Laura Hartle
Production Assistant: Zandria Oliver

Things to do in Northern Dutchess County, NY
In Dutchess, mark your calendars for Thursday, July 6th through Saturday, July 8th for the Millbrook Fire Department Block Party and Parade, in Millbrook, New York! From 6pm til midnight each night, enjoy live music, games, food, karaoke, and a bouncy house for the kids. The parade takes place on Saturday, July 8th.

On Saturday and Sunday, July 15th and 16th,  parents and children can enjoy music from renowned orchestral group, The Knights at Wethersfield Estate and Garden. On July 15th at 7:30pm, The Knights will play a series inspired by birds and the levity of flight. On July 16th, The Knights offer a special performance at 2pm, introducing children to the wonders of nature and orchestral music. Visit wethersfield.org for more info.

You’ll find more great things to do in Northern Dutchess County at millbrookmagazine.com/events.

Things to do in Litchfield County, CT Over in Litchfield, check out Second Saturdays at Kent Barns in Kent, CT. On the second Saturday of each month, local growers, makers, and artisans provide a selection of locally sourced flowers and food and wares. These outside markets are in front of R T Facts in Kent Barns. From 10:00am -1:00pm, the Kent Flower Market will be at RT Facts and from 10:00am - 2:00pm, Community Farmers Market & Swyft Shop is open. 

On Saturday, July 8th head out to the Pickin’ and Fiddlin’ Contest in Roxbury, CT at Hurlburt Town Park! Sit back, relax, and enjoy the blue grass competition. Gates open at 12:00pm and parking is free. Admission is $12, kids aged 10 and under get in free.

For more great things to do in Litchfield County, head over to Litchfieldmagazine.com/events.
Show Links:
Keep up with Chaseholm Farm at http://www.chaseholmfarm.com
Follow Chaseholm Farm on Instagram @chaseholmfarm
Find Boondocks Film Society at https://boondocksfilmsociety.org
Follow Boondocks Film Society on Instagram @boondocksfilmsociety

Music by Kevin Shrout

For this episode, we are thrilled to chat with Stephanie Ingrassia, the owner of Spring Hill Vineyards, which also hosts Spring Hill Arts Gathering (aka SHAG), in Washington, CT. Executive Director, Dana Gluck, joins us along with Stephanie, to give us the scoop about what these four days of live music, art, and community have in store. Mark your calendars for Thursday, June 22 - Sunday, June 25.


What's Happening with Mary Beth Lawlor connects you with the best of Litchfield County, CT and Northern Dutchess County, NY! Twice a month, we will share interviews with dynamic people in the community, what’s exciting on the food scene, as well as our favorite things to do in the area.


Hosted by Mary Beth Lawlor, editor-in-chief and publisher of Litchfield and Millbrook Magazines.

Find us on Instagram @whatshappening_podcast


Producer/Editor: Laura Hartle
Production Assistant: Zandria Oliver


Things to do in Northern Dutchess County, NY
In Dutchess, head to Pine Plains for the 24th annual Mashomack International Polo Challenge on Saturday June 17th from 12-3:30pm. Dress up to cheer on the players and enjoy a luncheon, silent auction, and pop-up boutiques.


Also in Pine Plains on the 17th, celebrate Pride at the Chaseholm Farm's “Dairy Drag” from 6-10pm. Start with a picnic and end with amazing performances in the dairy barn, plus a special guest!  All ages welcome.


On Saturday, June 24th and Sunday June 25th, enjoy shopping over 200 vendors at the Rhinebeck Crafts Festival at the Dutchess County Fairgrounds. You’ll find unique fashion, jewelry, ceramics, wood work, and much more! The Festival runs from 10am-6pm on Saturday and 10am - 5pm on Sunday.

You’ll find more great things to do in Northern Dutchess County at millbrookmagazine.com/events.


Things to do in Litchfield County, CT
Over in Litchfield County, put on your dancing shoes for the Pilobolus Ball, a ball celebrating and supporting the Pilobolus dance company on Saturday, June 17th in Washington, CT. Doors open at 6pm. The evening includes cocktails and culinary stations, a special performance, and a silent disco!

For theater fans, the Sharon Playhouse Theater’s summer season kicks off on Friday, June 23rd with the hilarious Something Rotten. Catch other beloved shows like Oliver and Our Town through September, 24th.

For more great things to do in Litchfield County, head over to Litchfieldmagazine.com/events.


Show Links:
Keep up with SHAG at https://www.springhillartsgathering.com

Follow SHAG on Instagram @springhillartsgathering

Find Spring Hill Vineyards at https://www.springhillvineyards.com

Music by Kevin Shrout

For our first episode, we are excited to chat with Ben Paletsky and Sarah Worden, the incredible team behind the historic farm and event venue, South Farms in Morris, CT. They’ve got an exciting new project, and your summer is about to get a lot tastier!


What's Happening with Mary Beth Lawlor connects you with the best of Litchfield County, CT and Northern Dutchess County, NY! Twice a month, we will share interviews with dynamic people in the community, what’s exciting on the food scene, as well as our favorite things to do in the area.


Hosted by Mary Beth Lawlor, editor-in-chief and publisher of Litchfield and Millbrook Magazines.

Find us on Instagram @whatshappening_podcast


Producer/Editor: Laura Hartle
Production Assistant: Zandria Oliver


Things to do in Northern Dutchess County, NY
Saturday, June 3 from 1- 4pm don’t miss the Stanford Pride event at Bangallworks. Lots of fun happening there for all ages, including live music and delicious food.


Food Truck Weekends are back at Millbrook Winery in Millbrook, NY! From 12- 6pm on Saturdays and Sundays, you can enjoy great food along with great wine and views of the valley.


You’ll find more great things to do in Northern Dutchess County at millbrookmagazine.com/events.


Things to do in Litchfield County, CT
 Sunday, June 11th from 2-6, head to the Owl Wine and Food Bar in  New Preston, CT for their Pride Party on the patio. Lots of great energy, and who doesn’t love a silent auction in the garden? Proceeds from the auction support the Pride in the Hills Fund.


For those of you who love to garden, you don’t want to miss this talk on June 3 at Hollister House in Washington, CT:  Designless Gardening: A Naturalistic Approach with horticulturalist Dan Wilder. The talk takes place from 10 - 11:30am.


Put on your cowboy boots and head over to the annual Goshen Stampede Rodeo and Music Festival from June 9 - 11th in Goshen, CT. Three jam-packed days filled with rodeos, a demolition derby, monster trucks, country music, and more!


For more great things to do in Litchfield County, head over to Litchfieldmagazine.com/events.


Show Links:
Keep up with South Farms at https://www.southfarms.org/farm

Follow South Farms on Instagram @southfarms


Keep a lookout for the Pasture launch date

https://www.southfarmspasture.org

@southfarmspasture on Instagram

Music by Kevin Shrout

Connecting you with the best of Litchfield County, CT and Northern Dutchess County, NY! Twice a month, we will share interviews with dynamic people in the community, what’s exciting on the food scene, as well as our favorite things to do in the area. Starting June 1st.

Hosted by Mary Beth Lawlor, editor-in-chief and publisher of Litchfield and Millbrook Magazines.

Find us on Instagram @whatshappening_podcast

Music by Kevin Shrout