Stories

Fairfield Dolan Launches AI & Technology Institute

<p>FAIRFIELD, Conn. — On Monday, April 28, the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fairfield.edu/academics/schools-and-colleges/charles-f-dolan-school-of-business/index.html" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><strong>Charles F. Dolan School of Business</strong></a>&nbsp;launched its&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fairfield.edu/academics/schools-and-colleges/charles-f-dolan-school-of-business/centers-and-facilities/ai-and-tech-institute/index.html" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><strong>Artificial intelligence (AI) and Technology Institute</strong></a>, a groundbreaking new initiative at the intersection of technology, creativity, and innovation. Speakers at the launch event included economist and Nobel laureate Myron Scholes, PhD, who joined via Zoom.</p><p>Following a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fairfield.edu/news/2025/february/ct-governor-ned-lamont-visits-dolan.html" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><strong>recent visit from Connecticut Governor Ned Lamont</strong></a>&nbsp;to a business analytics class to discuss AI applications in the workplace, Fairfield Dolan continues developing AI initiatives, including the launch of this institute on April 28. As part of the launch event, five students also showcased their AI-generated short films, produced as part of their coursework.</p><p>"The AI and Technology Institute is born from Fairfield's core Jesuit values — a commitment to serving humanity,” said Jie Tao, PhD, director of the AI and Tech Institute and associate professor of analytics. “Our focus is firmly on 'AI for the greater good,' leveraging cutting-edge AI research and expertise to empower our local communities and businesses.”</p><p>As part of the new institute, annual programming will include hosting experts such as Dr. Scholes at Fairfield Dolan. The AI and Tech Institute will also aim to offer trainings surrounding AI and emerging technologies.</p><p>Philip Maymin, PhD, associate professor of&nbsp;analytics&nbsp;and director of the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fairfield.edu/academics/graduate-education/masters-and-doctoral-degrees/business-analytics/index.html" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><strong>Business Analytics program</strong></a>, shared that as part of the event, Dr. Scholes talked about “the ways in which AI can make things faster, more individualized, and more flexible, and thereby benefit myriad industries.”</p><p>As evidenced by the AI-generated films, tech-heavy coursework, and prominent speakers, Fairfield Dolan continues to lead and explore opportunities in the AI space. “We are dedicated to building practical, freely available tools and offering consultation, positioning Fairfield Dolan as a leader in putting technology ethically in service of the common good,” Dr. Tao said.</p><p>Learn more about the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fairfield.edu/academics/schools-and-colleges/charles-f-dolan-school-of-business/centers-and-facilities/ai-and-tech-institute/index.html" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><strong>AI and Tech Institute at Fairfield Dolan</strong></a>.</p><p><em>Fairfield University is a modern, Jesuit Catholic University, rooted in one of the world’s oldest intellectual and spiritual traditions. More than 6,000 undergraduate and graduate students from 44 states, including the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico, and 46 countries, are enrolled in the University’s five schools. In the spirit of rigorous and sympathetic inquiry into all dimensions of human experience, Fairfield welcomes students from diverse backgrounds to share ideas and engage in open conversations. The University is located in the heart of a region where the future takes shape, on a stunning campus on the Connecticut coast just an hour from New York City.</em></p><p>&nbsp;</p>

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Sen. Hwang Testifies Before Govt Committee for Newtown Land Conveyance Bills

<p><strong style="color: rgb(49, 49, 49);">HARTFORD, CT – Senator Tony Hwang (R-Newtown)&nbsp;</strong><span style="color: rgb(49, 49, 49);">today testified before the Government Oversight Committee in support of two crucial land conveyance bills aimed at improving environmental sustainability land use and supporting the Catherine Violet Hubbard Animal Sanctuary Foundation both parcels of land are in Newtown.</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(49, 49, 49);">The two pieces of legislation,&nbsp;</span><a href="https://cga.ct.gov/asp/cgabillstatus/cgabillstatus.asp?selBillType=Bill&amp;which_year=2025&amp;bill_num=1562" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(66, 133, 244);">Senate Bill 1562</a>&nbsp;<span style="color: rgb(49, 49, 49);">and&nbsp;</span><a href="https://cga.ct.gov/asp/cgabillstatus/cgabillstatus.asp?selBillType=Bill&amp;which_year=2025&amp;bill_num=1564" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(66, 133, 244);">Senate Bill 1564</a><span style="color: rgb(49, 49, 49);">, address important amendments to previous land conveyances, ensuring that both open space preservation and community-driven initiatives remain a priority.</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(49, 49, 49);">“Both of these bills present the unique opportunity to balance economic development with environmental preservation and sustainability, and establishment of land protection area and a non-profit institution that can be beneficial in both aspects,” remarked Senator Hwang. “At the end of the day this can be an asset to all taxpayers and environmental stewardship.”</span></p><p><strong style="color: rgb(49, 49, 49);">Senate Bill 1562 –&nbsp;</strong><em style="color: rgb(49, 49, 49);">An Act Changing the Authorized Use of a Parcel of State Land Previously Conveyed to the Town of Newtown&nbsp;</em><span style="color: rgb(49, 49, 49);">seeks to remove the deed restriction on a parcel of state land originally conveyed to the town for economic development purposes. The bill would allow for the land to be repurposed for open space or recreational use, prioritizing the environmental and social value of this land for the residents of Newtown.</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(49, 49, 49);">Senator Hwang emphasized the importance of land preservation, saying,&nbsp;</span><em style="color: rgb(49, 49, 49);">"</em><span style="color: rgb(49, 49, 49);">We have an important societal responsibility to protect, and to teach that to our community and future generations. Open space and ecological preservation is of utmost importance. Changing the current economic development conveyance to open space and recreational use will allow Newtown to preserve valuable green space and provide a safe, accessible place for future generations to enjoy. It is a balance, but ultimately this can be a win-win opportunity</span><em style="color: rgb(49, 49, 49);">."</em></p><p><span style="color: rgb(49, 49, 49);">Senator Hwang also highlighted that Deep Brook, which runs close to the property, is one of only nine streams in Connecticut with a Class 1 Wild Trout Management Area designation. This status reflects its high water quality and support for naturally reproducing cold water species such as wild trout. Senator Hwang emphasized that the brook must be protected to maintain its ecological integrity.</span></p><p><strong style="color: rgb(49, 49, 49);">Senate Bill 1564</strong><span style="color: rgb(49, 49, 49);">&nbsp;–&nbsp;</span><em style="color: rgb(49, 49, 49);">An Act Amending a Prior Conveyance of a Parcel of State Land to the Catherine Violet Hubbard Foundation, Inc.</em><span style="color: rgb(49, 49, 49);">&nbsp;– aims to amend a prior conveyance of land to the Catherine Violet Hubbard Animal Sanctuary Foundation, Inc. The amendment would remove the technical language restriction on leasing the parcel and permit the land to be used as security for a loan, providing the foundation with the financial flexibility it needs to continue its mission. This change was guided by CT State Attorney General’s office to legally ensure the foundation to secure funding to support its programs, including animal therapy and community outreach and provide collateral protection.</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(49, 49, 49);">"I’m proud to support the Catherine Violet Hubbard Foundation, which is committed to an important community mission to&nbsp;</span>enrich the lives of all beings by promoting compassion and acceptance. By honoring the bond between animals, humans and the environment<span style="color: rgb(49, 49, 49);">," Senator Hwang said. "By allowing them to leverage this land for financial flexibility, we ensure they have the resources to enable the Foundation to access necessary financing to build a sustainable, eco-compliant educational center. This center would serve not only as a hub for environmental stewardship and animal welfare but also as a destination for eco-tourism and nature-based education. Located near the delicate and ecologically significant 6 Commerce Road property and the Catherine Violet Hubbard Animal Sanctuary, this project represents a model of responsible development that complements conservation goals."</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(49, 49, 49);">“I understand concerns regarding the use of state-conveyed land as collateral, and I do not take this step lightly. Over the past 12 years, the Foundation has raised more than $9 million in contributions, operated without debt, and maintained a track record of conservative financial management,”&nbsp;</span><strong style="color: rgb(49, 49, 49);">stated Jenny Hubbard, President of Catherine Violet Hubbard Animal Sanctuary</strong><span style="color: rgb(49, 49, 49);">. “This history of sound stewardship is precisely why the risk of foreclosure remains a highly unlikely scenario. Nevertheless, should such an event ever occur, legal safeguards are in place to ensure the parcel’s use would remain aligned with the original conveyance purpose. We are unwavering in our commitment to protecting the land entrusted to us and to honoring its intended role as a sanctuary and nature preserve for generations to come. We will continue to prioritize strong financial governance, resource efficiency, and donor accountability as the foundation of our operational and mission-driven success.”</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(49, 49, 49);">Support for both bills reflects Senator Hwang’s leadership in listening to his constituents . This proposal reflects a commitment to supporting his community and fostering opportunities for an alternative method of sustainable economic development, while protecting environmental education and sustainability while empowering nonprofit organizations to thrive and achieve its mission.</span></p>

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The Westport Library Launches 2025 Community Survey

<p class="ql-align-center">Westport, CT - The Westport Library has officially launched a community survey to gauge public sentiment about the Library itself as well as its programs, events, and offerings. The anonymous survey is open to both Westport residents and non-residents as well as Library patrons and those who have never before visited our space.&nbsp;</p><p>The survey, open now and available through May 31, takes about 10 minutes to complete and is available at<a href="https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/CommunitySurvey2025" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(70, 120, 134);">go.westportlibrary.org/survey</a>&nbsp;or through a computer kiosk set up in the Hub on the Library’s main level.</p><p>“We’re very excited to hear back from Westporters and Library users to learn more about what they think about the Library,” said Westport Library Executive Director Bill Harmer. “We’re always diligent in listening to and responding to community feedback. This survey provides us with invaluable information to aid in that endeavor. It also enables us to make the kind of data-driven decisions that we believe will maintain The Westport Library’s place as a true asset to the town and as one of the very best libraries in the country.”</p><p>In addition, the results of the survey will inform the Library’s emerging strategic plan, which will guide the Library’s mission and work for years to come. The work on the strategic plan is ongoing, with the plan set to be unveiled to the public later this year.</p><p>“The 2025 community survey is a month-long opportunity to participate in shaping the future of The Westport Library,” said Westport Library Chief Impact Officer Tory Donahue. “As part of our strategic planning process, the Library is committed to engaging the entire community in gathering feedback and ideas that will inform our plan.”</p><p>Those who opt to participate in the survey will be eligible to win one of a handful of prizes offered to respondents. Available prizes include two sets of Apple AirPods; free drinks at the Library café; Amazon gift cards; and for teens, a delivery of 10 pizzas to the Library during AP exam study times.</p><p>For more information on the survey and prizes, please visit&nbsp;<a href="https://westportlibrary.org/about-our-community-survey/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(70, 120, 134);">The Westport Library website</a>&nbsp;or read our FAQs below.</p><p><strong>ABOUT THE SURVEY</strong></p><p><strong>Where can I go to take the survey?</strong></p><p>It is available at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/CommunitySurvey2025" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(70, 120, 134);">go.westportlibrary.org/survey</a>. You can also fill out the survey on the computer kiosk set up in the Hub on the Library’s main level.</p><p><strong>How long does it take?</strong></p><p>The survey takes less than 10 minutes.&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Is it anonymous?</strong></p><p>Yes. The survey can be completed entirely anonymously. You have the option to add your email both to enter the sweepstakes for prizes or to be contacted for follow-up focus groups, but this information will not be associated with your responses.</p><p><strong>What is the survey asking about?</strong></p><p>The survey is looking for information about how to focus the Library’s efforts on what is most needed, most wanted, and most likely to engage our community in a way that is welcoming, innovative, and responsive.</p><p>To find this information, the survey asks questions about how you are using the Library (or not), what features are a priority for you, and what topics interest you most. Because of our commitment to lifelong learning, the survey also asks your opinions about our role in the community relative to schools. Finally, it asks questions about you and your relationship with and to the Library.</p><p><strong>Who will see my answers?</strong></p><p>All of the data will be examined collectively and not on the basis of individual responses. Westport Library Chief Impact Officer Tory Donohue will analyze the data and share the results with a strategic planning committee made up of staff and trustees. The strategic plan that emerges from this will be shared with the community.</p><p><strong>How will the Library manage the data?</strong></p><p>All of our work is done with respect to our&nbsp;<a href="https://westportlibrary.org/about/policies/privacy-confidentiality-and-law-enforcement-request-policy/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(70, 120, 134);">Privacy Policy</a>&nbsp;and our&nbsp;<a href="https://westportlibrary.org/about/policies/data-collection-and-usage/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(70, 120, 134);">Data Collection and Usage statement</a>.</p><p><strong>How can I win one of the prizes?</strong></p><p>When you take the survey, enter your email when asked if you want to be eligible for a prize. This will be how you are contacted if your name is randomly chosen for a prize.</p><p><strong>About The Westport Library</strong></p><p>Founded in 1886, built in 1908, and transformed in 2019, The Westport Library is one of the most active and innovative public libraries in the nation, devoted to enriching the intellectual and creative lives of the community. Among its many highlights are a full collection of books for children, teens, and adults; an engaging and colorful Children’s Library; a MakerSpace; a Library of Things; a Seed Library; a robust café and store; and professional art installations that rotate throughout the year. The Westport Library is also home to Verso Studios, replete with an SSL hybrid analog sound studio and broadcast control suite featuring a state-of-the-art console and six robotic cameras, and the Trefz Forum, an open, flexible space that can accommodate up to 600 patrons and features an 18-foot video wall, 35-foot stage, state-of-the-art sound, and theatrical lighting. Situated in the heart of downtown Westport overlooking the scenic Saugatuck River, The Westport Library annually hosts StoryFest, the largest literary festival in Connecticut, and VersoFest, its multi-day music and media festival. Above all, the Library strives to serve the whole community as a vibrant gathering spot where people of all ages come to seek information, gain knowledge, exchange ideas, and share experiences. For more information, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://westportlibrary.org/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(70, 120, 134);">westportlibrary.org</a>.</p>

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4th Annual Fairfield Dog Days set for Sunday, June 22nd

<p class="ql-align-center">Fairfield, CT - The 4th Annual Fairfield Dog Days presented by Pet Pantry Warehouse and the Fairfield Chamber of Commerce to Benefit Adopt-a-Dog, Operation Hope CT and Team Woofgang &amp; Co. is set to return on Sunday, June 22nd at 11am. The free event includes vendors, dog-centric activities, entertainment, giveaways, and more.&nbsp;</p><p>The festival aims to bring together dog lovers, local businesses and animal advocates to celebrate community, raise funds for local non-profit shelters and pamper our four-legged best friends.&nbsp;</p><p>"We are so happy and grateful to be picked as a charity for Dog Days," said Christine Amato, Executive Director for Adopt-A-Dog Inc. She continued, "It's a wonderful event for the community with activities for kids and adults, and allows Adopt-A-Dog to show off some of our adorable adoptables!&nbsp;We look forward to having positive and fun days and hope to recruit some new foster families as well".&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Vendor Applications Open</strong>. Both events support Adopt-A-Dog and other local nonprofit organizations dedicated to animal rescue and adoption.&nbsp;Vendors who are interested in reserving a tent space (10’x10’) for the Fairfield event can reserve their spot on the Fairfield Chamber of Commerce website (FairfieldCTChamber.com) or contact Katelyn Thaler, (<a href="mailto:Katelyn@FairfieldCTChamber.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(11, 76, 180);">Katelyn@FairfieldCTChamber.com</a>) or call: 203-255-1011.</p><p>"The Fairfield event draws over 1,500 people, and although its theme is dogs, attendees are also interested in looking at, or purchasing, other kinds of products as well," said Beverly Balaz, President of the Fairfield Chamber of Commerce. She continued, "This is one of Fairfield’s bigger community events! Vendor tent spots are limited, so we encourage vendors to register early!”</p><p>Attendees can expect a packed lineup of fun, interactive, and family-friendly activities, including: Dog Lovers Lure Coursing, Face Painting, Caricature Artist, Pet Pantry Bone Bar, Ice Cream Pawlour, Sniffari, Scavenger Hunt (in New Canaan only), Food Trucks, Splash Park and more. </p><p>“These events have become a staple in Fairfield County, and we’re proud to continue creating unique experiences that support the welfare of pets and the people who love them,” said Adam Jacobson, Executive Vice President of Pet Pantry Warehouse. “From playful activities to pet adoption awareness, every element of Dog Days is designed to strengthen our bond with the community and give back.”</p><p><strong>Fairfield Dog Days</strong></p><p>Sunday, June 22nd, 2025</p><p>Location: Old Town Hall Green, Fairfield</p><p>Time: 11AM – 4PM</p><p><a href="https://www.eventbrite.com/e/fairfield-dog-days-2025-presented-by-pet-pantry-warehouse-tickets-1320117389649?utm-campaign=social&amp;utm-content=attendeeshare&amp;utm-medium=discovery&amp;utm-term=listing&amp;utm-source=cp&amp;aff=ebdsshcopyurl" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.eventbrite.com/e/fairfield-dog-days-2025-presented-by-pet-pantry-warehouse-tickets-1320117389649?utm-campaign=social&amp;utm-content=attendeeshare&amp;utm-medium=discovery&amp;utm-term=listing&amp;utm-source=cp&amp;aff=ebdsshcopyurl</a></p><p>This year's Dog Days Diamond sponsors include First Mate, Raised Right and Open Farm. Gold sponsors include Earth Animal, K9 Natural, Primal and Vital Essentials. Silver sponsors include Fromm and Rawz. Bronze sponsors include Blue Buffalo, Canidae/Natural, Balance (Ethos Pet), Champion, Honest Kitchen, Nulo, Stella &amp; Chewys, Ziwipeak, Zignature/Fussie, Natures Variety, Saint Rocco's, Triumph/Evolve, and Farmina. Free samples from these brands will be available to attendees at each event.&nbsp;</p><p><strong>About Adopt-A-Dog</strong></p><p>Adopt-A-Dog is a limited-admission animal shelter whose mission is to save, socialize, and secure loving homes for unwanted or abandoned dogs. Adopt A Dog was founded in 1981 with the mission is to save, secure, socialize, and find loving homes for the most vulnerable, unwanted, and abandoned dogs. We firmly uphold this mission, putting in relentless efforts to ensure that every dog in need discovers a place of love and belonging. Our dedication serves as a testament to our core values, propelling us forward with determination and a profound sense of compassion. We embrace the transformative power of love, understanding, and patience to heal the wounds of these beautiful souls, enabling them to rediscover trust and hope.</p><p><strong>About Pet Pantry Warehouse</strong></p><p>Pet Pantry Warehouse is a community-based, family-owned, and operated pet supplies retailer. Products are carefully sourced to ensure quality and value. The history of the Pet Pantry began in 1945 with World War II Army Air Forces servicemen, Mort Davis, and Jac Cohen. The pair formed their alliance over a British puppy adopted by Davis while stationed in wartime England. After accomplishing a stateside transfer for the lucky pup, the two remained friends, joining forces in the pet food business. Davis passed away in the late ‘60s, but Cohen soldiered on with their enterprise through 1995, when the business was purchased by Barry Jacobson and his sons, Adam and Ari, who run the business today.</p><p>When the business was re-conceived in 1995, the large warehouse space, which was home to the original Pet Pantry, was converted into a more modern shopping experience, and a new business model was born. The success of the reformatted business paved the way for additional locations. Today, these locations include Rye, Larchmont, and Scarsdale in Westchester County (New York) and New Canaan, Wilton, Riverside, and Fairfield in Fairfield County (Connecticut).</p><p>Six out of the seven locations (Scarsdale, Rye, Riverside, Wilton, New Canaan, and Fairfield) have self-serve dog washrooms and host “Clean Your Paws for a Cause” fundraisers with local entities. Pet Pantry also feeds local K-9 Units free of charge in Fairfield and Westchester County and sponsors New Canaan Dog Days, Fairfield Dog Days, Puttin' on the Dog, Fairfield Harvest Market &amp; Pet Parade, and Greenwich Howl &amp; Prowl. For more information and online ordering, please visit Pet Pantry online (pppwpet.com). Follow on Instagram: @PPWPet #PPWPet</p>

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CLASP Presents: Taste of Westport 2025 – A Night at Studio 54

<p>Westport, CT - Get ready to <strong>savor, sip and support</strong> at the most anticipated culinary event of the year: CLASP's Taste of Westport 2025, set for Thursday, June 5, 2025, 6:00 PM – 9:30 PM at The Inn at Longshore, Westport, CT</p><p>Step into the dazzling world of <strong>Studio 54</strong> for a night of indulgence, elegance, and impact at <strong>Taste of Westport 2025</strong>. Set against the stunning waterfront of the Inn at Longshore, this unforgettable evening will feature an exclusive lineup of <strong>invitation-only</strong> restaurants, each presenting thoughtfully curated selections designed to delight every palate. Enjoy signature cocktails, music and an electric atmosphere as you mingle with Fairfield County’s most influential guests, tastemakers and philanthropists. The evening also features a silent auction highlighting unique offerings.</p><p>This year, The Bridge, Gabriele’s, Don Memo, The Whelk and Nômade are just a few of the esteemed restaurants joining in—alongside many more culinary favorites.</p><p>More than just a culinary celebration, Taste of Westport supports <strong>CLASP Homes</strong>, a nonprofit organization that has provided loving homes and essential support for adults with Autism and intellectual disabilities for over <strong>40 years</strong>. With residences in Westport,<strong> </strong>Fairfield, Easton, Wilton, Trumbull and Stratford, CLASP empowers individuals to live fulfilling, independent lives. Through personalized care and enriching life experiences, CLASP ensures each person reaches their full potential while fostering environments of respect, dignity, and inclusion.</p><p><strong>100% of the event proceeds</strong> directly fund CLASP’s mission. Every bite, every sip, and every dollar has a meaningful impact. <strong>This event sells out every year</strong>—secure your spot at Westport’s most exclusive night of culinary indulgence and heartfelt impact.</p><p><strong>Tickets are on sale now at </strong><a href="http://www.tasteofwestport.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><strong>www.TasteofWestport.com</strong></a><strong> </strong></p><p><strong>Admission Prices</strong></p><p>$150 Early Bird – Available through May 12th</p><p>$200 Standard Admission – Starting May 13th until sold out</p><p>For more information about CLASP Homes, contact:</p><p>Robin Hammond</p><p><a href="mailto:RHammond@clasphomes.org" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">RHammond@clasphomes.org</a></p>

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Kershner Gallery "Viewpoints" Three-Artist Show Opens with a Reception June 12

<p>Fairfield, CT - The Bruce S. Kershner Gallery at Fairfield Public Library invites the public to a reception for “Viewpoints”, the show of paintings by Clayton Liotta, Cathryn Falwell and Jean Benoit on Thursday,&nbsp;June 12 from 5:30 to 7:30pm. They will talk about their work at 6pm. The show can be seen from June 7 to July 26 during library hours at 1080 Old Post Road in Fairfield. See&nbsp;<a href="http://www.fairfieldpubliclibrary.org/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">www.fairfieldpubliclibrary.org</a></p><p><strong>Clayton Liotta&nbsp;</strong>is a self-taught, American born artist who has been involved in the arts, in one form or another, his entire life. He has worked in a large variety of media including; film, stone, wood, paint, pastel, oil pencil, wire, paper mâche, charcoal and graphite. His subject matter has run the gambit from the real to the surreal, with pieces ranging in size from an eight and a half foot tall “Grizzly Bear” made out of chicken wire, to a tiny “Hand”, carved from the graphite on the point of a pencil.</p><p>Clayton’s work can be seen at several local Galleries in Connecticut as well as numerous exhibitions held throughout the year at various locations. The artist can be found these days working and living quietly in his New Milford CT. studio.</p><p>Clayton states, “I create pieces that move me in some way and make me smile first...And my hope is that they then do the same for anyone viewing my work. In my opinion, Art should not be about pretension!...It should be about simply sharing one's views of the world around them with others. I am a serious artist but I don't take myself too seriously, if that makes any sense?”</p><p><strong>Cathryn Fallwell&nbsp;</strong>received her BFA in Art from the University of Connecticut, where she studied printmaking with Gus Mazzocca and drawing with Anthony Pratt. Her work has been exhibited in numerous galleries including The Maine Art Gallery in Wiscasset, Maine, The Atrium Gallery in Lewiston, Maine, The Beach Museum of Art in Manhattan, Kansas, and the West Hartford Art League.&nbsp;She is&nbsp;also the author and&nbsp;illustrator of more than 25&nbsp;picture books for children.</p><p>Cathryn says,“Trees have always had a fascination for me, and walking in the woods brings me both peace and inspiration.&nbsp;My current work, done in charcoal, relief print and collage, is a translation of my exploration of the natural environment."</p><p><strong>Jean Benoit</strong>&nbsp;is a self-taught artist who was born in Haiti.&nbsp;At an early age the artist was exposed to an array of art forms from Historic plays which included Folklore Dances to traditional artisan arts. In Primary School where he sat behind a small wooden desk in Port-Au-Prince staring out the window, he would often be lost in the majestic beauty of the mountains surrounding the country side.&nbsp;It was there&nbsp;that he drew his first comic book character.&nbsp;</p><p>At the age of 12 he migrated to America. Exposure to an abundance of cultural diversity and contemporary ideas helped set forth his artistic journey. He has devoted&nbsp;himself to be a lifetime student of the arts. His creative endeavors are labors of love. He draws inspiration from all aspects of the universe. His work has been shown in numerous galleries.</p>

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USA Junior Golf Federation Teams Up with Midspring for Women's Golf Day June 1

<p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Get ready to tee it up in style. The nonprofit USA Junior Golf Federation is proud to partner with Midspring women’s golf apparel to host a fun-filled Women’s Golf Day celebration on Sunday, June 1, on The National short course at The Golf Performance Center.</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Midspring, co-founded by childhood best friends and Ridgefield High School grads Meredith (Maher) Carmody and Shannon (Galowski) Arniel, blends performance with polish. Their high-quality line of women’s golf apparel transitions effortlessly from the course to the everyday.</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">“Our line is designed with three pillars at the foundation of all of our styles: performance functionality, flattering fits and fashion femininity. We appeal to the most experienced of players as well as the novice recreational golfer and have clientele spanning all ages and stages. Regardless of your level of play, we hope our styles make you feel confident as you move throughout your day from the course, to courts, to calls, to carpools, to cocktails and everywhere in between,” says Carmody.</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Women’s Golf Day isn’t just swings and putts—it’s a Sunday well spent. Think good company, a little golf guidance, tasty bites, bubbly in hand, and a breezy 9-hole round on The National. Guests will also have the chance to shop Midspring’s latest collection and enjoy a mimosa bar and brunch bites throughout the morning.</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Grab your girls, your clubs, and make your way to The Golf Performance Center for a morning of fun, fashion, and fresh air. Whether you're a seasoned player or just golf-curious, this event is a great way to get into the game—or just enjoy a mimosa while browsing some great gear. No clubs? No problem. Registration is required to play, no need to register if you’re just stopping by to sip and shop.</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">"We’re thrilled to partner with Midspring to promote Women’s Golf Day! We want to work together to engage, empower and support girls and women through golf to build a foundation that creates a network to support the continuation of golf no matter what skill level while engaging in a charitable cause at a local level,” says Kim Genzburg, Executive Director of USA Junior Golf Federation.</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">The National, a 9-hole course designed for speed and enjoyment, offers a refreshing take on the game—quick enough to play in under 40 minutes and open for public play. Located at 824 Ethan Allen Highway in Ridgefield, The Golf Performance Center is changing how we play, learn, and love golf.A portion of the event proceeds from Midspring sales will support the USA Junior Golf</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Federation’s scholarship program at The Golf Performance Academy.</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Register here:</span><a href="https://thegolfperformancecenter.com/womens-golf-day/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204); background-color: transparent;">&nbsp;</a><a href="https://thegolfperformancecenter.com/womens-golf-day" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204); background-color: transparent;">https://thegolfperformancecenter.com/womens-golf-day/</a></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">About Midspring</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Midspring creates refined, functional golf apparel for women who want to feel comfortable, capable, and confident. Designed to transition seamlessly from a morning on the green to the rest of your day, Midspring is committed to celebrating the everyday athlete in every woman. Learn more</span><a href="https://midspringsport.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204); background-color: transparent;">&nbsp;</a><a href="https://midspringsport.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204); background-color: transparent;">https://midspringsport.com/</a></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">About USA Junior Golf Federation</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">A 501(C)3 non-profit organization dedicated to fostering and educating the next generation of aspiring junior golf athletes. The Federation is committed to providing junior golfers at The Golf Performance Academy with the financial assistance and support they may need to enable them to excel on their way to playing collegiate golf and beyond. Learn more here (I don't know how to embed the link :) )</span><a href="https://usajuniorgolffederation.org/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">&nbsp;</a><a href="https://usajuniorgolffederation.org" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">https://usajuniorgolffederation.org/</a></p>

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