<p><strong>Bridgeport, CT</strong> (January 30, 2025) — United Way of Coastal and Western Connecticut (UWCWC) celebrated the highly anticipated launch of Women United on Tuesday, January 28, 2025, at the Westport Library in Westport, CT. This inaugural event brought together over 100 attendees, uniting individuals across the region to advance the health, education, and financial stability of women and children in Fairfield and Southern Litchfield Counties.&nbsp;</p><p>Isabel Almeida, President and CEO of UWCWC, reflected on the success of the launch: “Creating meaningful change requires all of us to work together—not only to meet basic needs but to build the systems and structures that ensure everyone has a chance to thrive. Women United is about building that future together.”&nbsp;</p><p>The evening featured inspiring insights from keynote speaker Sheri West, Founder and CEO of LiveGirl and author of <em>Confidence Unleashed: 10 Kickass Strategies to Grow as a Leader</em>, as well as a dynamic panel discussion with extraordinary female leaders:&nbsp;</p><ul><li>Kate Hampford Donahue, CEO of Hampford Research&nbsp;</li><li>Carmen Hughes, Director of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion for the City of Stamford</li></ul><p>During her keynote address, Sheri West encouraged attendees to embrace their unique leadership styles and dare to stand out as agents of change. "There are actions within your control that can empower you to rise as a leader—to influence, initiate, and create meaningful impact," she said. "A defining moment in my own leadership journey was discovering what truly energizes me—my ‘why’—and aligning my path with that purpose."</p><p>The event also included a robust panel discussion highlighting the challenges and opportunities women face in leadership roles. Each panelist shared their personal journey and offered practical advice for driving change in their communities and beyond.&nbsp;</p><p>“As we work together to cultivate the next generation of women leaders, we must empower them to lead with confidence, determination, and a strong belief in themselves,” said Carmen Hughes, Director of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion for the City of Stamford. “Leadership should also be rooted in inclusion—ensuring that we lift others as we rise.”&nbsp;</p><p>“Building confidence as female leaders is essential,” said Kate Hampford Donahue, CEO of Hampford Research. “But it doesn’t have to happen all at once. Start small—identify three great things about yourself and repeat them until you truly believe them. Confidence grows with practice, and as you walk in it, you empower not only yourself but also those you are called to mentor.”&nbsp;</p><p>The launch of Women United signals a new era of collaborative philanthropy, advocacy, and volunteerism for UWCWC. This initiative is designed to harness the power of community-minded individuals to create a lasting, positive impact for everyone in the region.&nbsp;</p><p><strong>What’s Next for Women United:</strong>&nbsp;</p><p>Women United is committed to creating opportunities for members to engage in meaningful ways throughout the year. This initiative will offer a variety of ways for leaders to drive change and give back to their communities.&nbsp;</p><p>To stay up to date on all future Women United events and engagement opportunities, please visit: <a href="https://www.unitedwaycwc.org/women-united" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(70, 120, 134);">https://www.unitedwaycwc.org/women-united</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p class="ql-align-center">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p class="ql-align-justify"><span style="color: rgb(89, 89, 89);">Bridgeport, CT – Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo (CBZ) has received preliminary results of Highly Pathogenic Avian Flu (HPAI), commonly known as avian flu, following testing of a deceased Cotton Patch goose on grounds, Tuesday, January 28th. In response, the zoo has taken additional steps above and beyond already established protective measures to ensure the health and safety of its birds, animals, staff, and guests. The zoo is working closely with state and federal partners, including U.S. Department of Agriculture, and the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) to follow guidelines and conduct ongoing reviews as a result of the detection.Health and safety precautions had already been enacted at CBZ in response to HPAI cases reported in Connecticut. Out of an abundance of caution for the wellbeing of zoo animals, staff and guests, additional and increased measures have been implemented.</span></p><p class="ql-align-justify"><strong style="color: rgb(89, 89, 89);">Animal Care and Safety Protocols</strong></p><p class="ql-align-justify"><span style="color: rgb(89, 89, 89);">To further protect the zoo’s bird collection, staff, the public and animals in care, the following measures have been put in place:</span></p><ul><li class="ql-align-justify">The farmyard and outdoor aviary are temporarily closed.</li><li class="ql-align-justify">Access to birds will be limited strictly to care providers, designated animal care specialists, and veterinary staff.</li><li class="ql-align-justify">All volunteer activity and ambassador experiences with birds are cancelled.</li><li class="ql-align-justify">Animal care staff will use designated tools for each avian area, all tools will be placed in disinfectant solutions after use.</li><li class="ql-align-justify">Staff who have critical care roles with birds will continue to wear increased PPE to reduce the risk of transmission.</li></ul><p class="ql-align-justify"><strong style="color: rgb(89, 89, 89);">Next Steps</strong></p><p class="ql-align-justify"><span style="color: rgb(89, 89, 89);">The zoo’s Animal Care team will continue to evaluate the health of all birds, animals and staff and will adjust safety precautions as needed.</span></p><p class="ql-align-justify"><span style="color: rgb(89, 89, 89);">Birds in nearby exhibits that did not have direct contact with the affected flock, including ravens, peafowl, and turkeys, will be quarantined and tested to ensure that staff with proper PPE can monitor the flock. In accordance with state and federal guidelines, the zoo has humanely euthanized the remaining affected birds in the pond community that may have been exposed to HPAI, to prevent the possible spread of the disease.</span></p><p class="ql-align-justify"><strong style="color: rgb(89, 89, 89);">About Avian Flu Transmission to Birds, Animals and Humans</strong></p><p class="ql-align-justify"><span style="color: rgb(89, 89, 89);">Avian flu primarily affects birds, particularly waterfowl and domestic poultry. Transmission to humans and other animal species is rare but possible, typically through direct and prolonged contact with infected birds or contaminated surfaces. Risk to the public and other animal species at the zoo is low.</span></p><p class="ql-align-justify"><span style="color: rgb(89, 89, 89);">Avian flu is often spread by migrating birds that travel from southern regions to New England, particularly waterfowl carrying the virus without showing symptoms. As these birds pass through the region, they may shed the virus through droppings, saliva, and nasal secretions, potentially exposing local birds to infection.The zoo remains committed to the health and well-being of all its animals and will continue to monitor the situation closely. Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo will provide updates if significant changes occur.</span></p><p class="ql-align-justify"><span style="color: rgb(89, 89, 89);">Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo appreciates our guests for their patience, as visits may be disrupted by these changes. For more about the zoo, its animals and visiting hours click here&nbsp;</span><a href="http://www.beardsleyzoo.org/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(89, 89, 89);">beardsleyzoo.org</a><span style="color: rgb(89, 89, 89);">.</span></p><p><br></p>

<p class="ql-align-center"><strong style="color: rgb(24, 25, 26);">FC Buzz Weekend January 31 - February 4</strong></p><p>HamletHub is proud to partner with the Cultural Alliance of Fairfield County and FCBuzz to Elevate Arts and Culture in Fairfield County! Each week, look for a listing of weekend events and activities. The Cultural Alliance of Fairfield County celebrates the vibrancy and diversity of the arts and culture across 15 towns in coastal Fairfield County. Sign up to receive a free eBuzz newsletter with top picks and spotlight events from the hundreds of events posted on FCBuzz.</p><p><a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/events/zeppelin-reimagined" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong>Zeppelin Reimagined</strong></a></p><p><strong>Stamford Center for the Arts, Stamford</strong></p><p>Friday Jan 31, 8:00 pm - 10:00 pm</p><p>From the creators of Magical Mystery Doors comes Zeppelin Reimagined. Zeppelin Reimagined is not just another Led Zeppelin tribute band; they are a groundbreaking experience that merges the timeless power of classic rock with the cutting-edge technology of today. With a dynamic stage presence, LED screens, and a visual spectacle that complements their sound, Zeppelin Reimagined offers a fresh take on the iconic music of Led Zeppelin.</p><p><a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/events/pride-and-prejudice-b2a4d" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong>Pride and Prejudice</strong></a></p><p><strong>Westport Community Theatre, Westport</strong></p><p>Friday Jan 31, 7:30 pm - 9:30 pm</p><p>A new adaptation based on Jane Austen's classic novel, is the 3rd production in Westport Community Theatre's acclaimed season, running January 31 – February 16, 2025. Marriage is far from Elizabeth Bennet’s top concern, yet with four sisters, a determinedly match-making mother, and a parade of ill-suited suitors, the topic is inescapable. When Elizabeth, strong-willed and independent, crosses paths with the intriguing yet reserved Mr. Darcy, she resolves to keep her emotions in check. However, the path to the truth proves more tangled than expected…</p><p><a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/events/on-view-sm-nc-giants-f1e9a" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong>On View: SM&amp;NC GIANTS</strong></a></p><p><strong>Stamford Museum &amp; Nature Center, Stamford</strong></p><p>Friday Jan 31, 9:00 am - 4:30 pm</p><p>Large in format, bold in color, brash in context. We call them the "giants" of our collection. Representing a range of styles and mediums, many of these works have not been on view for decades, including mammoth works by Hunt Slonem, Rhonda Wall and Nicholas Krushenik. Others you may recognize from previous exhibitions; works from Peter Bradley, William Ronald and Steven Brent. We're pleased to present them once more before they return to our collections vault.</p><p><a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/events/rowayton-arts-center-from-the-rac-studio-77fe5" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"> <strong>“From the RAC Studio”</strong></a></p><p><strong>Rowayton Arts Center, Norwalk</strong></p><p>Friday Jan 31, 12:00 pm - 5:00 pm</p><p>This all media exhibition features over 100 pieces of artwork by RAC Instructors and students created in the past year. RAC celebrates the study, creation and appreciation of the arts through classes, exhibitions and events open to all in the community.</p><p><a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/events/artist-talk-anette-millington" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong>Artist Talk with Anette Millington</strong></a></p><p><strong>Center for Contemporary Printmaking, Norwalk</strong></p><p>Saturday Feb 1, 2:00 pm - 3:00 pm</p><p>Anette Millington is an Assistant Professor of Fashion Systems and Materiality at Parsons School of Design and Associate Director of the Textiles MFA Program. Her interdisciplinary creative practice focuses on patterns and spans print, textiles, and sculpture. Anette abstracts flora and fauna—flowers, butterfly wings— to design new protective surfaces and symbols. She explores the psychological dimension of symmetry, building magic and metaphor from mathematics. In her Artist Talk, Anette will share more about her residency project: creating small-scale sculptures from wood-block printed paper.</p><p><a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/events/voices-cafe-presents-the-brian-torff-group" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong>The Brian Torff Group</strong></a></p><p><strong>Voices Cafe</strong></p><p>Saturday Feb 1, 8:00 pm - 10:30 pm</p><p>The Brian Torff group has been described as a band driven by a desire to capture the complexity of the American story “through American roots music with an updated twist.” Torff’s music honors Black History Month by blending original music with classic Delta Blues, demonstrating the deep impact of Black music on our nation’s culture through original, creative, inspiring music.</p><p>See these and discover hundreds more events on the <a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">FCBUZZ EVENTS</a> page at <a href="https://culturalalliancefc.org" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://culturalalliancefc.org</a> Sign up for the <a href="https://culturalalliancefc.org/resources/newsletter-sign-up/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Cultural Alliance eBuzz</a> to receive top picks and spotlights each week in your inbox.</p>

<p>Bridgeport, CT – Catalyst CT has announced receipt of a $50,000 grant from The AVANGRID Foundation for two programs -- Park City Career Pathways (PCCP) and StreetSafe Bridgeport (SSB) -- aimed at supporting transitional-aged youth and those affected by systemic barriers and violence. Through these programs, Catalyst CT provides resources and opportunities that help hundreds of young people overcome challenges while paving the way for brighter future possibilities.</p><p>PCCP connects high school graduates, non-graduates and disengaged adolescents and young adults with tailored career and educational resources that match their interests and skills. The program addresses obstacles such as limited access to career guidance, navigating college applications and the need for job preparation skills. PCCP mentors work with students to eliminate these barriers, helping participants to see beyond the roadblocks that stand in the way of their success.</p><p>SSB, established in 2014, focuses on reducing gang and gun violence through mentorship and intervention. Led by a team of outreach members, the program fosters trust and engagement among youth involved in or at risk of violent crimes. These mentors interrupt conflict, guide participants in coping with trauma, disrupt cycles of violence and lead them towards positive change. By building safer communities, SSB offers a foundation of stability and opportunity for Bridgeport’s most vulnerable youth.</p><p>"We appreciate the generosity of the AVANGRID Foundation to support Catalyst programs that empower young people to overcome challenges," said Marc Donald, Executive Director of Catalyst CT, Inc. "StreetSafe and Park City Career Pathways have demonstrated a track record of success in helping participants break through barriers and thrive.&nbsp;This funding will provide the critical resources for young people to accomplish their goals and reach a brighter future.”</p><p>The AVANGRID Foundation’s support reflects its ongoing commitment to Bridgeport and their investment in its youth, striving to equip them with tools to overcome challenges and achieve success. Their generosity will go a long way in helping Catalyst CT empower hundreds of young adults, offering them opportunities for a brighter future.</p>

<p class="ql-align-justify"><span style="color: rgb(89, 89, 89);">Bridgeport, CT – Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo (CBZ) is excited to welcome Ranger, a male American Red Wolf, to our animal family. Ranger joins us from the National Zoo as part of the Species Survival Plan (SSP), a vital program dedicated to protecting and preserving critically endangered species like the American Red Wolf.Ranger is two and half years old and joins Taylor, our resident female red wolf.&nbsp;Although Taylor is no longer part of the breeding population, Ranger’s presence ensures she has a companion while continuing her vital role in inspiring guests to&nbsp;care about wildlife conservation.&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></p><p class="ql-align-justify"><span style="color: rgb(89, 89, 89);">The addition of these extraordinary animals to CBZ underscores the plight of the American Red Wolf, one of the most endangered canid species in the world. Currently the population of red wolves left in the wild is approximately 290 in managed care and just 17 individuals surviving in the wild.</span></p><p class="ql-align-justify"><span style="color: rgb(89, 89, 89);">“Taylor and Ranger give our guests a special chance to connect with the American Red Wolf and learn about urgent efforts to protect this critically endangered species,” said Jim Wharton, CEO of Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo. “Ranger’s arrival reflects our commitment to wildlife conservation, and we are thrilled to welcome him to his new home. We invite everyone to visit and be inspired by these incredible animals.”</span></p><p class="ql-align-justify"><span style="color: rgb(89, 89, 89);">In addition to Ranger, the Zoo is also excited to welcome Mortica, a new barn owl, to its animal family. This fascinating bird highlights CBZ’s dedication to showcasing the diversity of North American wildlife. Morticia, a nine-year-old female barn owl weighing 0.6 kilograms, is known for her striking, heart-shaped face. Barn owls typically prefer quiet nesting and roosting sites, such as tree cavities or man-made structures like barns or silos.</span></p><p class="ql-align-justify"><span style="color: rgb(89, 89, 89);">Guests are encouraged to visit the Zoo to meet Ranger and Mortica to learn about the conservation efforts to protect critically endangered species. By supporting the Zoo, attendees are contributing to vital initiatives that make a difference for wildlife and our environment.</span></p><p class="ql-align-justify"><span style="color: rgb(89, 89, 89);">For more about the zoo, our animals and visiting hours click here&nbsp;</span><a href="http://www.beardsleyzoo.org/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(89, 89, 89);">beardsleyzoo.org</a><span style="color: rgb(89, 89, 89);">.</span></p><p><br></p>

<p>&nbsp;It’s the sweetest time of the year as the 2025 Girl Scout Cookie season kicks off in Connecticut.&nbsp;The 100% girl-led entrepreneurship program that develops the next generation of female business leaders officially launches on January 24th. The public is now able to order the delicious desserts from individual Girl Scout members – both in-person and online.</p><p>“The five fundamentals of the cookie program are goal setting, decision making, business ethics, people skills and money management,” said Elicia Pegues Spearman, Chief Executive Officer of Girl Scouts of Connecticut (GSOFCT).&nbsp;“Girls learn to work as a team to accomplish goals, while building confidence in their individual abilities and most importantly, they have fun while doing it!</p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Spearman notes that Girl Scout members received an educational immersion to ensure a successful 2025 cookie season at the Girl Scout Round Up: Cookie Rally and Entrepreneur Fair earlier this month, which offered a variety of helpful workshops on leadership, entrepreneurship, customer care, cyber security, and presentation skills.</span>To sweeten the deal, GSOFCT offers a reward system in which Girl Scouts earn prizes for selling a certain level of cookie packages.&nbsp;Incentives include patches, charms, a Lenovo Laptop, tickets to AdventurePark in Storrs and a plush stuffed panda, the official mascot of the 2025 cookie season.</p><p>The roster of tasty treats being offered this year includes&nbsp;Adventurefuls™, Thin Mints®, Samoas®, Tagalongs®, Do-si-dos®, Trefoils®, Lemon-Ups®, gluten-free Toffee-tastic® and Girl Scout S’mores®, which are officially retiring this season.&nbsp;Each variety costs $6 per package.</p><p>There are several ways to pre-order and purchase Girl Scout Cookies including:</p><ul><li>Contacting a registered Girl Scout to find out how she’s selling cookies, either in-person or through her individual Digital Cookie<span style="color: rgb(33, 37, 41);">&nbsp;®&nbsp;</span>online platform.</li><li>Visiting&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.b00YhNV2Nr0-2BaZn7eVNAdWk0D-2FZNWoRYVKhJpIohRAA-3DBxmu_Ij1XgsWtWeAdz0mTEGIcEh6byeAwrCr1n-2Fdtm09E61q1gufQgi3uo3sO5-2BIoQsNjgf4iqXmt9uazDd1G1KzkN40mGU08xegmnUeGbPY7bGBp1Ydh-2FRHiV88WH98wjE-2BT9cqaaXhBKL63RgPVFDdh3szbAdI2odiUdhPHYQ-2FxDA-2Bzl7bvPZDG4d-2BmSvxjb0sY3M-2FhyN8tVn-2FzzEmZncqE5TzGEymcFvmstvelUK5mwe85rQYHdLbJAC0jVvwFb7pnf7OjOzHix9S25xxlC0tHZnyLtQzmJEdz43evmJRcw9aHVp39d9PyVDdCWhaXj8mwsMh1G-2F7zlnbZpgU-2BamT5mA-3D-3D" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 255);"><u>www.gsofct.org</u></a><u style="color: rgb(0, 0, 255);">&nbsp;to find out how to order online,&nbsp;</u>or</li><li>Contacting GSOFCT’s Customer Care team at (800) 922-2770</li><li>Girl Scout Cookies will be delivered to Connecticut on March 22, 2025, at which time, all pre-orders will be fulfilled to customers, and troops around the state will set up cookie booths in their local communities through the end of April.</li></ul><p>For more information on the Girl Scout Cookie season, including how to find cookies or support the organization in other ways, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.b00YhNV2Nr0-2BaZn7eVNAdWk0D-2FZNWoRYVKhJpIohRAA-3De418_Ij1XgsWtWeAdz0mTEGIcEh6byeAwrCr1n-2Fdtm09E61q1gufQgi3uo3sO5-2BIoQsNjgf4iqXmt9uazDd1G1KzkN40mGU08xegmnUeGbPY7bGBp1Ydh-2FRHiV88WH98wjE-2BT9cqaaXhBKL63RgPVFDdh3szbAdI2odiUdhPHYQ-2FxDA-2Bzl7bvPZDG4d-2BmSvxjb0sYR811WZS7jUGxheBfFSa0FmJi3DHgbSaeMu2X35WswLJZj0Wj7xnKB39zukmrwR7ZdoRgDJx8g6H-2Fjww7KCPpKe6nDjDlneocXBo95YjT9P-2Benpo84ht5o5Cjw6A8Vil677mUOEOnEZMzTgZIey22EQ-3D-3D" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 255);"><u>www.gsofct.org</u></a>.</p>