Brookfield, CT | HamletHub

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Dec 02, 2024

Why Small Businesses Matter in Brookfield: Expedia Cruises

<h2>Why Small Businesses Matter</h2>Shop small, do big things for your communityWhy Small Businesses Matter puts a spotlight on the local merchants who donate their time, talent, goods, and services for the betterment of our community. The shop local movement spreads virally as local businesses who are “tagged” have the opportunity to share their storyMeet Mary and Jim Villamana Founders of <a href="https://www.expediacruises.com/en-US/900221" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204); background-color: transparent;">Expedia Cruises</a>!Editor’s note: Mary, a native of Newtown and Jim, originally from Ridgefield, opened Connecticut’s first Expedia agency in early 2019 at 67 Federal Road in Brookfield.Why did you start your business?As empty nesters, we wanted to travel more and see the world. It's a win-win for us to integrate that into our work. It's a fun and exciting industry, we enjoy sharing our experiences and passion for travel and want to help people plan their trips too.What are your most requested products or services?Cruises is #1 followed by European land tours and all inclusive resorts. Our tagline is Air, Land and Sea vacations which sums it up well.Have you reimagined Expedia Cruises Brookfield?Although Covid was an extremely difficult time for the travel industry, it gave us the opportunity to learn more about other sectors such as destination weddings and safaris. As a result, we have incorporated that more into our business.Visit Expedia Cruises website <a href="https://www.expediacruises.com/en-US/900221" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204); background-color: transparent;">here</a>.Follow along on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/ExpediaCruisesInBrookfield" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204); background-color: transparent;">Facebook</a> and Instagram @<a href="https://www.instagram.com/expediacruisesinbrookfield/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204); background-color: transparent;">expediacruisesinbrookfield</a>HamletHub thanks<a href="http://www.jkinfordbeautygroup.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204); background-color: transparent;"> </a><a href="https://www.fairfieldcountybank.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204); background-color: transparent;">Fairfield County Bank </a>for making our Why Small Businesses Matter series possible!

Dec 01, 2024

Brookfield Arts Commission's Gingerbread House Contest!

Brookfield Arts Commission will be hosting a Gingerbread House Contest for all Brookfield residents.Here’s your chance to have your creative masterpieces displayed for all of Brookfield to view!Houses and all decorative components must be made from edible materials. Entry displays should be no more than 2’ by 2’ and all structures should be mounted on a solid base. Prizes for best in show will be awarded to adult and youth age groups.Gingerbread houses should be dropped off at Town Hall on Monday, December 2, from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. To register (required) and for more information, please email <a href="https://eybpcuhab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=00137aqbbsZn5IgDxr51g7vucQKAXEipr1W4VkGOghhsK9XabbRxcaJqp-G5HmXpDf1ygHQyv0FhR0FJGkcjaqPwJ1rPNXgtyA_f2lbi94I4j5HSX_nrbCV8gjeLPBhQ5b5B59Bv3vy_LNZpNJTjHtBz-NaBxZ6JdNJdrs6xsWGoNqwR8GmVYp_o3GnylkFJouOD3xfRZ9nW3prU_BAwh5jKWCXsLdoqLsNuu-4ZSsLFczDbCC3t551nDExRyu6fuLAcVY-eNMsZ0Cus_3-0HC3fTO6tTORYVE6GRfWq7t_BNtxiTH7t96P-J7q_TaQKqsHi67Iw4n7IKV7ico5romslgETdMgcB5NWlq-Lh5h3pEudYZgdqRtnDa46_6SyexoG1hCSgg49oHIVuF7tff0fVotcIUsaRfqfa9t8Mf1OUnv1muJMgUz848XGM2vO8dCVfo4u3eqeFZfwQ3eBz5wvB6ITo0jQLKn6KYDTSAaZB8Z9ef7wtvkLPRoCrs15sk-PS8tMfIIFLCK1jW3llHSFICLazGR8lS_C3zI0qu3KtTdnR5G4lfc49C3cLAMLB-YiGsLoZS5HnTZxEOY8K87E98DZjVe2Ru8ADjlM5HEHqCxMmpeOr4q-C3vvP3ScVQ3tFuzXJ9I_y7_IvD-SgLjpgi5xi55P6Sr1IlSvWZG_vik6SZAjcrUdugtczcJLkPcXLel2ZRkdCYsrrjR6o4VYjSUrtbjSQU6j1i_8Z2_raxaddMlFP_hoa7tT0G47tUUABnnqEdWB2Gq5XU3EcQm4SQnqO6VufM7vB3iKxaf5z9hW5bh8T-DgiUJoi2l21pRKC-Wda_Odfi69j6bkDKDgkq8JDmx8BJKppnNIwWZskp2PaXBVh2XdqiZKd7aS3PEpYfaUAYhJlfFS11DAT0T3gLlqeNnWeZaAfjbZEQtLKwSPYSb_eTMtm2qUNekGdsCUNU1iIqYXzmZM8P46xVz_xWFt7ATUqRDCAdnsGQqXCy8=&c=uQOd0YNQwk6DTc5H8ldCGMoHyBUiZgih6wOM5uEx6LSxp5wCj6p9Jg==&ch=0x9eeBT5_XVLWTDgsf6zAuq44iAImg8QIRcAetmFS4CAXpZvdFxBFQ==" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 112, 192);">brookfieldartscommissionct@gmail.com</a>

Dec 01, 2024

Brookfield's Home for the Holidays Light Contest & Tour

Let’s light up Brookfield! Show off your home decorating skills and hard work for all to enjoy!This season, all decorated Brookfield homes are invited to participate in a contest judged by you! Residents will be asked to vote on Best Traditional Decorating, Most Creative, and Brightest House. Voting details will be posted here and shared on social media.  *Voting will end Sunday, December 22nd.Displays will be asked to be illuminated each evening from 5:00 – 9:00pm, Wednesday December 11th through Wednesday December 25th. Brought to you by the Brookfield Arts Commission and Brookfield Parks & Recreation. Please consider passing on the kindness of your Brookfield neighbors who decorate their homes by making a donation in support of the Brookfield Food Pantry.<a href="https://brookfieldct.myrec.com/info/activities/program_details.aspx?ProgramID=29934#activities" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(1, 78, 158);">Register</a> • <a href="https://brookfieldct.myrec.com/info/datacart/default.aspx" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(1, 78, 158);"> View Cart</a>

Dec 01, 2024

Brookfield Parks & Rec Holiday Events: Wreath Decorating, Santa Letters, Lights

<a href="https://eybpcuhab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=00137aqbbsZn5IgDxr51g7vucQKAXEipr1W4VkGOghhsK9XabbRxcaJqimC_mrKgRHWggjiRlkdtkLHyBjIp-d3Esl6zIlL6Qq6d0rvb2PvgFt5atiJUcWcjYxlT5X6fWSj7hKto_i7SrU01hWUNO6mE0YtlXCNOOwMqSXXHdeDXHmC2MvLnWUSBKeZHEhKWepDtkf_XYO_GAOPGVuT62VrTQvMC6B4mL5KBPYmYEUUuWrX_n5BRKZA3Q==&c=uQOd0YNQwk6DTc5H8ldCGMoHyBUiZgih6wOM5uEx6LSxp5wCj6p9Jg==&ch=0x9eeBT5_XVLWTDgsf6zAuq44iAImg8QIRcAetmFS4CAXpZvdFxBFQ==" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 112, 192);">Wreath Decorating Workshop</a>Join us on December 5th for a festive evening preparing for the holidays! Participants will receive a fresh wreath and all the fixings to decorate your own custom piece with a professional touch. Create and design at your own pace with as much guidance and instruction as you like!<a href="https://eybpcuhab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=00137aqbbsZn5IgDxr51g7vucQKAXEipr1W4VkGOghhsK9XabbRxcaJqj-DHsLdP2_Pmxx55pNgYxXqZT_8cbi-mGD6BkKFII6j5I2W8Qb-sgpPJE5D9oHl2tla_dbQN5QM2wwsWuGuCaQ8XR2O_0sQMnlvLOZMdm_6vlM_xVnxRnI1pTjDnK7prvBIknv-Iapf-5PXIx2ODWS6J9Rx0iVdIpAW8QqbiiqNOj3qrzJTtZ90GJepunhWkA==&c=uQOd0YNQwk6DTc5H8ldCGMoHyBUiZgih6wOM5uEx6LSxp5wCj6p9Jg==&ch=0x9eeBT5_XVLWTDgsf6zAuq44iAImg8QIRcAetmFS4CAXpZvdFxBFQ==" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 112, 192);">Grades K-5 – Click Here</a> ~ <a href="https://eybpcuhab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=00137aqbbsZn5IgDxr51g7vucQKAXEipr1W4VkGOghhsK9XabbRxcaJqj-DHsLdP2_Pkh8nzuR0NwW-PgGG_9l1GlC66Gt-ui0xAeMRPYXsy8bm-LPRsXRf7aBkc_1D5suo1gpKcInpkxisbBxbeVhQFY4zW3xORriPL9TwmFZzB5KCXrJ5_hj7xXWr2K7sQuM3iFrrYteEtiR1O7T6Pt8_GLV2yGuvprrveO9zfBeV1BIHEznucx2Qwg==&c=uQOd0YNQwk6DTc5H8ldCGMoHyBUiZgih6wOM5uEx6LSxp5wCj6p9Jg==&ch=0x9eeBT5_XVLWTDgsf6zAuq44iAImg8QIRcAetmFS4CAXpZvdFxBFQ==" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 112, 192);">Grades 6-12 – Click Here</a>Our popular Rec Basketball Programs for boys and girls, from Kindergarten to 12th grade, start in December and January. Leagues run through February, and all abilities are welcome to join. Don't miss out on the fun!<a href="https://eybpcuhab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=00137aqbbsZn5IgDxr51g7vucQKAXEipr1W4VkGOghhsK9XabbRxcaJqj-DHsLdP2_PDJf5htGNsAOfFEZwDuH3cGflU-qk6ZibaxzGp4bN7U9pWUmwkfcbCoIbmwmy85HMmlVt_u4yc3HvNLsFBD5ZoOCFOFPSHrfeku2oRPHZzoiKI-3kgY0Bs5DPda4W38af76puEI2otsuKjaSTThixpe95xbtrBMPh5Z79cuQr1s-rleCjspX8JQ==&c=uQOd0YNQwk6DTc5H8ldCGMoHyBUiZgih6wOM5uEx6LSxp5wCj6p9Jg==&ch=0x9eeBT5_XVLWTDgsf6zAuq44iAImg8QIRcAetmFS4CAXpZvdFxBFQ==" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 112, 192);">Home for the Holidays Light Tour</a>We are looking for entries for our annual Home for the Holidays Light Tour contest. Residents who decorate their homes can submit their addresses to be part of the tour and contest. Prizes will be awarded for the brightest home, best classic display, and most inflatables. Details and registration information are available online.<a href="https://eybpcuhab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=00137aqbbsZn5IgDxr51g7vucQKAXEipr1W4VkGOghhsK9XabbRxcaJqimC_mrKgRHWcFsq7iQ97oxDgjcqRE88A1BY3oxZaCHybd__nKjr4GCsguuYxSHDpnkBsjE1nQtLazicDz29majYHS1hJ3OPGz7yE4_iuq0RIsJm8OfM1UlphMBX6JjRI_Ad7BoTSOlSO84hOil5mNKuYqfbR0emp5M6HGRzfBxO7Yvl57H4eQn7WZ9Cu9AIWg==&c=uQOd0YNQwk6DTc5H8ldCGMoHyBUiZgih6wOM5uEx6LSxp5wCj6p9Jg==&ch=0x9eeBT5_XVLWTDgsf6zAuq44iAImg8QIRcAetmFS4CAXpZvdFxBFQ==" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 112, 192);">Letters to Santa</a>Get your Letters to Santa ready early! Our North Pole mailbox will be available for residents to drop off their letters between December 2nd and December 13th. The mailbox is located outside the office at 162 Whisconier Rd. and is accessible from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. each weekday. Letters dropped off by the 13th will receive a personalized response from Santa! Please include a self-addressed, stamped envelope with your letter.<a href="https://eybpcuhab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=00137aqbbsZn5IgDxr51g7vucQKAXEipr1W4VkGOghhsK9XabbRxcaJqimC_mrKgRHWZHWrcg6_xKDvJ0BUqoXq9Hr-2fv75jHYsCTt0g0kxVDNLFu_WwsiXvKX3wvD4c2PvdDjtpVQv5T8v0_PtCQ2VR4KITfXeMLB2XgYb-AoFAj4SJ7xKblCK6k4bvPoHLWi_XT9sICoIy-HGrhasyidSgovCODP_wXN4NgtFS9qjaer0BSMfzzJfw==&c=uQOd0YNQwk6DTc5H8ldCGMoHyBUiZgih6wOM5uEx6LSxp5wCj6p9Jg==&ch=0x9eeBT5_XVLWTDgsf6zAuq44iAImg8QIRcAetmFS4CAXpZvdFxBFQ==" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 112, 192);">Holiday Singing & Signing with Ms. Janine</a>Families are invited to join us for Holiday Singing & Signing with Ms. Janine on Saturday, December 14th at Candlewood Lake Elementary School. This free children's concert will run from 10:30 a.m. to 11:15 a.m. in the multi-purpose room. This is a 'park style' show, so bring a blanket or lawn chair. Limited chairs will be available.Full details and registration for all programs are available online at www.brookfieldparksandrec.com.

Nov 14, 2024

Christmas Movie Trail: Discover the 22 holiday movies filmed in Connecticut

<h2>Connecticut Unveils the Nation’s First Christmas Movie Trail</h2> Discover the 22 holiday movies filmed in Connecticut — and see how you can visit each festive destinationIn a celebration of cinema and the holiday season, Connecticut proudly unveiled the nation’s first-ever <a href="https://officeofthegovernor.cmail20.com/t/j-l-gkrkddy-tlluktttuu-u/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(5, 99, 193);">Christmas Movie Trail</a> today. This unique journey lets movie lovers experience the quaint towns, bustling cities, and festive settings that have captivated millions of viewers through these beloved Christmas classics. From Hallmark to Netflix to Lifetime, a curated map featuring 22 filming locations, invites visitors to step into the cozy inns, intimate cafes, charming shops, and iconic attractions where their favorite holiday stories were brought to life.The unveiling event, held at the historic <a href="https://officeofthegovernor.cmail20.com/t/j-l-gkrkddy-tlluktttuu-o/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(5, 99, 193);">Silas W. Robbins House</a> in Wethersfield – a setting in Hallmark’s Christmas on Honeysuckle Lane – featured actors Wes Brown, Erin Cahill, Michael Rady, and Producer Andrew Gernhard, who together revealed the map to an enthusiastic audience. This trail captures the charm of Connecticut’s communities and hidden gems that have become the backdrop for some of the most timeless holiday movies.A New Way to Experience ConnecticutConnecticut’s Christmas Movie Trail invites visitors to explore a side of the state that typically shines on screen: snow-dusted main streets adorned with lights, historic inns decked for the holidays, and vibrant town squares. The trail taps into the growing travel trend of “set-jetting,” where fans travel to real-life locations featured in their favorite movies and TV shows to relive memorable scenes and connect with the stories they love.“The Connecticut Christmas Movie Trail showcases the state’s unique role as a holiday destination, not just for movie sets but for real-life memories,” Ellen Woolf Rubrich, Connecticut’s state brand director, said. “Our communities – brought to life with the spirit, beauty, and joy audiences experience on screen. Now, with the growing trend of set-jetting, visitors can step into these holiday scenes themselves and experience every aspect of what make these movies so magical.”Highlights of the TrailThe Connecticut Christmas Movie Trail is a curated guide, connecting travelers with the accommodations, dining spots, and attractions that play a role in 22 films from Hallmark, Lifetime, Netflix, BET, and Universal Studios. Highlights include:<ul><li class="ql-align-justify">Historic inns and cozy accommodations: Experience the warmth and holiday decor of inns that have served as both real and fictional backdrops, perfect for a seasonal getaway.</li><li class="ql-align-justify">Iconic holiday scenes: From bustling main streets to picturesque town greens, each stop on the trail has been thoughtfully selected for its role in holiday movies, providing a full immersion into Connecticut’s holiday spirit.</li><li class="ql-align-justify">Local dining and unique attractions: Fans can enjoy locally-owned restaurants and charming cafes that feature in the films, and unique attractions that offer a complete holiday movie experience.</li></ul>Featured films include:<ul><li class="ql-align-justify">Trivia at St. Nick’s</li><li class="ql-align-justify">Where Are You, Christmas?</li><li class="ql-align-justify">Mystic Christmas</li><li class="ql-align-justify">Ghosts of Christmas Always</li><li class="ql-align-justify">Sugar Plum Twist</li><li class="ql-align-justify">A Holiday in Harlem</li><li class="ql-align-justify">Next Stop, Christmas</li><li class="ql-align-justify">One Royal Holiday</li><li class="ql-align-justify">Holiday for Heroes</li><li class="ql-align-justify">Christmas on Honeysuckle Lane</li><li class="ql-align-justify">Christmas at Pemberly Manor</li><li class="ql-align-justify">Romance at Reindeer Lodge</li><li class="ql-align-justify">Wally Lamb’s Wishin’ & Hopin’</li><li class="ql-align-justify">The 12 Days of Christmas Eve</li><li class="ql-align-justify">The Holiday Fix Up</li><li class="ql-align-justify">The Noel Diary</li><li class="ql-align-justify">Soul Santa</li><li class="ql-align-justify">My Adventures with Santa</li><li class="ql-align-justify">A Very Nutty Christmas</li><li class="ql-align-justify">A Very Merry Toy Store</li><li class="ql-align-justify">Broadcasting Christmas</li><li class="ql-align-justify">The Santa Con</li></ul>A Celebration of Tradition, Innovation, and Economic Impact“This trail is an innovative approach to travel that connects Connecticut’s picturesque towns and vibrant cities with the magic of holiday cinema,” Anthony Anthony, Connecticut’s chief marketing officer, said. “We’re giving visitors an immersive experience that brings their favorite holiday films to life. This trail isn’t just about celebrating the movies themselves – it’s about celebrating Connecticut’s unique ability to blend tradition with fresh, creative travel experiences that drive economic growth and showcase the best of what our state has to offer.”As part of the festivities, 12 lucky Connecticut residents were chosen to attend the event and meet their favorite holiday film stars in person. Adding an extra layer of holiday magic, Hallmark actress Erin Cahill surprised one of the winners by drawing their name for a special opportunity – to be an extra in an upcoming Hallmark movie being filmed right here in Connecticut.For more information, including access to the Connecticut Christmas Movie Trail map, visit <a href="https://officeofthegovernor.cmail20.com/t/j-l-gkrkddy-tlluktttuu-f/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 113, 187);">www.CTvisit.com</a>.

Nov 07, 2024

WestConn waives application fee for first-time, first-year CT students

DANBURY, Connecticut — <a href="https://www.wcsu.edu/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Western Connecticut State University </a>will waive the <a href="https://www.commonapp.org/explore/western-connecticut-state-university" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Common App</a> application fee for first-time, first-year Connecticut students who apply to the university from Nov. 1–30, 2024. To apply or for more information, go to <a href="http://www.wcsu.edu/admissions" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">www.wcsu.edu/admissions</a> or call WestConn Admissions at (203) 837-9000.Western Connecticut State University offers more than 50 top-rated and accredited undergraduate and graduate programs that deliver a high-quality, practical education at an affordable price. For more than 120 years, WestConn’s small classes, high-tech facilities, top researchers, experienced faculty, internships and more have allowed students to discover and develop their talents and interests, leading to a lifetime of success. To read about our successful alumni, go to <a href="http://www.wcsu.edu/success-stories" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">www.wcsu.edu/success-stories</a>.The university, located on two campuses in Danbury, Connecticut, offers undergraduate and graduate degree programs from its <a href="https://www.wcsu.edu/asb/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Ancell School of Business</a>, <a href="https://www.wcsu.edu/sas/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Macricostas School of Arts and Sciences</a>, <a href="https://www.wcsu.edu/sps/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">School of Professional Studies</a> and <a href="https://www.wcsu.edu/svpca/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">School of Visual, Performing and Communication Arts</a>. For information on all of WestConn’s academic programs, go to <a href="http://www.wcsu.edu/academics" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">www.wcsu.edu/academics</a>.For more information, go to <a href="https://www.wcsu.edu/admissions" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">www.wcsu.edu/admissions</a>, call (203) 837-9000 or contact Communications and Marketing at <a href="mailto:pr@wcsu.edu" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">pr@wcsu.edu</a>.

Nov 07, 2024

Miss Summer? Discover Brookfield Expedia Cruises Sun Seeker Sale Thru Nov. 13!

Wish Summer Never Ended?Connecticut's First Expedia Cruises™ Agency, owned by Mary and Jim Villamana, is excited to bring you the Sun Seeker Sale!Take advantage of incredible offers on all-inclusive resort vacations in Mexico and the Caribbean. This special sale runs through November 13, so explore these limited-time deals and book your dream escape to the land of endless summer.Don’t miss out—book today by clicking <a href="https://tinyurl.com/Sun-Seeker" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://tinyurl.com/Sun-Seeker</a>Connecticut's First Expedia Cruises™ Agency is located at 67 Federal Road in Brookfield.Learn more at<a href="https://www.expediacruises.com/en-US/900221" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;"> </a><a href="https://www.expediacruises.com/en-US/900221" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204); background-color: transparent;">Expedia Cruises - Brookfield</a>.