<p>Today, Mayor Roberto L. Alves announced the City of Danbury has been awarded $1,693,688 in funding from the State Bond Commission for the South Street Revitalization Project to make HVAC improvements at the Danbury Community Center, a planning grant to establish an arts hub in the Downtown Special Services District, and for the Franklin Street extension bridge project.</p><p>“These funds will go a long way toward making progress – and making our community more resilient, richer, and robust. I want to thank the members of the Bond Commission, the Community Investment Fund Board, and Governor Lamont for their support and their confidence in Danbury’s future," said Mayor Roberto L. Alves.</p><p>The projects the Bond Commission approved, totaling $1,693,688 are:</p><p><strong>$943,688</strong>&nbsp;for the South Street Revitalization Project to make HVAC improvements at the Danbury Community Center.</p><p><strong>$500,000</strong>&nbsp;towards the Franklin Street extension bridge project</p><p><strong>$250,000</strong>&nbsp;for a planning grant to establish an art hub in the Downtown Special Services District.</p>

<p class="ql-align-center">WestConn celebrates First-Generation college students with sixth annual ‘First-Generation College Celebration’</p><p>DANBURY, Connecticut — <a href="http://www.wcsu.edu/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Western Connecticut State University</a> will host the sixth annual First-Generation College Celebration from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 8, at the Higgins Hall Patio on the university’s Midtown campus, 181 White St. in Danbury. During the event, WCSU will join in celebration with other colleges across the nation that will be engaging in a number of different activities, highlighting First-Generation college students on campus. </p><p>Students, faculty, staff, administrators and alumni will have the opportunity to share their personal stories as First-Generation college students and the impact that experience has had on their lives.</p><p>The concept of a “First-Generation” student was introduced into federal policy by the passage of Higher Education Amendments to the <a href="https://www.acenet.edu/advocacy/Pages/Higher-Education-Act.aspx" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Higher Education Act of 1965</a>. As a result of these amendments, colleges and universities have the opportunity to celebrate those who have made huge strides in this country to be the first in their family to attend college. </p><p>The Pre-Collegiate &amp; Access Programs Department at WCSU includes Danbury Public Schools Collaborative, Upward Bound, ConnCAP, Excel, EA²P (Educational Achievement and Access Program), and PASS (Promoting Academically Successful Students).</p><p>This event also will offer “First-Generation College Celebration” branded items for all First-Generation attendees. The celebration is free and the public is invited. Light snacks and beverages will be offered. </p><p>For more information, contact Rob Pote at <a href="mailto:poter@wcsu.edu" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">poter@wcsu.edu</a> or Communications and Marketing at <a href="mailto:pr@wcsu.edu" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">pr@wcsu.edu</a>. </p><p><br></p><p><br></p>

<p><strong>CatVideoFest&nbsp;</strong>is Coming to Danbury—Laughs and Cats Galore!</p><p>Calling all cat lovers! On Saturday, November 16,&nbsp;<strong>CatVideoFest</strong>&nbsp;is taking over The Palace Danbury with a collection of hilarious, heartwarming, and downright adorable cat videos. From viral sensations to classic favorites, this family-friendly event has something for everyone—and it’s all for a good cause.</p><p>As&nbsp;<em>The Wall Street Journal&nbsp;</em>put it, “Watching silly cat videos is good for you,” and we couldn’t agree more. But&nbsp;<strong>CatVideoFest&nbsp;</strong>is more than just a fun night out. Every ticket sold helps raise money for local animal shelters and organizations dedicated to improving the lives of cats in need. Since 2019, the event has raised over $150,000 for shelters worldwide, supporting adoption, fostering, and volunteer programs.</p><p class="ql-align-center"><a href="https://f7cqvsdab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001VBTd4Nr1JI4fTdtdVflV6JN8RcpRqNynAfCCa9NjNai5sCOLEIY92ywxFFO-EtCz_sTTMx5Op10CZdyTRQjwh12nc3oKjgLrj_eNWd57w8Z3-kCGo3r-4n1HbocYcWpQgBBMKxsbmXgFE5tVGoStk7S7iLsrF0Aswy5WgZP8OmGUOfH-0SO1sihZWFveupyo&amp;c=x2xyMPRGXRsPuXJpY57TMtJ63YuyT0Yxue-enBX1fnRC_0nhA5cewg==&amp;ch=nrjNJ8Z76cMjs9wJSUrQtxAIHI66y8dCCiNvZWo125h9DbDw8J2gyA==" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(70, 126, 246);"><strong>SNEAK PEEK HERE</strong></a></p><p>This year,&nbsp;<strong>The Palace Danbury</strong>&nbsp;is proud to partner with the<strong>&nbsp;Danbury Animal Welfare Society (DAWS)</strong>. Since 1974, DAWS has rescued over 32,000 animals from high-kill shelters and has been a lifeline for countless others in our community. A portion of every ticket will go directly to DAWS, ensuring that your support stays local and helps cats right here in Danbury.</p><p>Whether you’re a dedicated cat lover or simply looking for a fun night out, this 75-minute show offers plenty of laughs while supporting cats in need. Join us at&nbsp;<strong>The Palace Danbury&nbsp;</strong>for a one-of-a-kind film festival that makes a real impact. </p><p>All tickets $20. Tickets can be purchased in advance online at&nbsp;<a href="https://f7cqvsdab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001VBTd4Nr1JI4fTdtdVflV6JN8RcpRqNynAfCCa9NjNai5sCOLEIY920-3ki3tqu_AjRJkYURCFcbfORburMO7TYn-dcSo0vXu-kBianGDepJHnyPDEUap-gR20qy1cD4I_6QnAEbSn2BKZRZ3hkW7SItLgzlVJbsR&amp;c=x2xyMPRGXRsPuXJpY57TMtJ63YuyT0Yxue-enBX1fnRC_0nhA5cewg==&amp;ch=nrjNJ8Z76cMjs9wJSUrQtxAIHI66y8dCCiNvZWo125h9DbDw8J2gyA==" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(70, 126, 246);">www.thepalacedanbury.com</a>, by phone at (203) 794-9944, or at the Box Office one hour before showtime.</p>

<p>The Danbury Hat Tricks are hosting their Annual First Responders Appreciation Night on Friday, October 25th, at the Danbury Ice Arena, where they will take on the Binghamton Black Bears.</p><p>All First Responders who sign up will receive a COMPLIMENTARY GAME TICKET AND BEVERAGE (draft beer, soda, or water).</p><p>This is our way of saying thank you to all the dedicated First Responders in our communities.</p><p>In addition to your own seat, by signing up, you can purchase additional tickets which are discounted to $10. Great to bring friends and family.</p><p>To sign up, just click the link and register.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p><a href="https://www.danburyhattricks.com/firstresponder" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><u>https://www.danburyhattricks.com/firstresponder</u></a></p><p>Please feel free to forward to any of your associates, who you think would be interested in this event.</p><p><br></p><p>&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Redding Roadhouse Luxury Travel Brunch - Thank You!</strong></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Last Sunday, October 13, Brookfield-based Expedia Cruises, Connecticut’s first Expedia Cruises agency, hosted a Luxury Travel Brunch at Redding Roadhouse. While enjoying a delightful brunch, attendees learned about many travel opportunities and possibilities. Co-owner Mary Villamana remarked, “We had a fine afternoon today with our fabulous travel partners Dale Woods (Ponant Cruises) and Leigh Sassone (Kensington Tours). Many thanks to them for showcasing these amazing luxury travel providers. Also a big shout out to our Vacation Consultants - Bob Cristadoro, Linda Rich, Stephanie Bush and Ivy Pearson who helped make this a success!”</span></p><p><strong style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Embark on Luxury Sailing Around Sicily Summer 2025!</strong></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Join Mary and Jim Villamana, owners of Connecticut’s first Expedia Cruises location, for an unforgettable journey next summer on the Circumnavigation of Sicily with PONANT and Smithsonian Journeys! This unique voyage offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore Sicily's rich history and stunning landscapes while traveling alongside world-renowned experts in art history and ancient cultures, Gary Radke and Andrew Becker.</span></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">This luxury sailing adventure will take place August 29 – September 6, 2025, aboard the elegant 184-guest Le Bougainville.</span></p><p><strong style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Limited space! Secure your spot today by emailing Mary at&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://mailto:mvillamana@expediacruises.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong>mvillamana@expediacruises.com</strong></a><strong style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">&nbsp;or calling (203) 429-5589.</strong><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Highlights of the Trip:</span></p><ul><li><span style="background-color: transparent;">Explore UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Visit the ancient Greek cities of Agrigento and Syracuse, and the ruins of Carthage.</span></li><li><span style="background-color: transparent;">Discover Medieval Erice: Wander through this picturesque hilltop town, known for its two castles.</span></li><li><span style="background-color: transparent;">Wine-Tasting on Mount Etna: Savor the flavors of Sicily on the slopes of this famous volcano.</span></li><li><span style="background-color: transparent;">Witness Stromboli's Active Lava: Watch for lava flows from one of Italy's most active volcanoes.</span></li></ul><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Visit Expedia Cruises in Brookfield&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.expediacruises.com/en-US/900269" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">here</a><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">.</span></p>

<p>The Danbury Hat Tricks are hosting their 5th Annual Teacher's Appreciation Night on Saturday, October 19th, at the Danbury Ice Arena, where they will take on the Motor City Rockers.</p><p>All teachers who sign up will receive a complimentary game ticket and beverage (draft beer, soda, or water). This is our way of saying thank you to all the dedicated educators in our communities.</p><p>In addition to your own seat, by signing up, you can purchase additional tickets for just $10—perfect for bringing friends and family.</p><p>To sign up, click the link and register: <a href="https://www.danburyhattricks.com/teacher" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.danburyhattricks.com/teacher</a></p><p>Please feel free to forward this to any of your associates who might be interested in attending.</p>