<p>The American Red Cross is helping nine people after two&nbsp;separate fires yesterday in Danbury and New Milford.</p><p>The Red Cross is helping:</p><ul><li>two families – three adults - one child after a fire yesterday&nbsp;on Coalpit Hill Rd., Danbury</li><li>one family – two adults – three children&nbsp;after a fire yesterday on Cambridge Circle, New Milford</li></ul><p>In each instance, the Red Cross provided assistance to meet the families’ immediate needs. Responders included: Art Hopkins, Sharon Cuartero, Mike Gabriel,&nbsp;Steven Chen, John Lennon, Amy Thomas, Pilar DeCola, Sheri MacKenzie and Jim Murdy.</p><p>The Red Cross also provided a recovery envelope containing information helpful to families recovering from a fire, including tips on cleanup; notification of important contacts; dealing with damaged items and more. The Red Cross is also providing comfort kits containing personal care items such as toothbrushes, deodorant, shaving supplies and other items a resident might need when suddenly displaced from their home by a fire.</p><p>Red Cross caseworkers will connect with those affected in the coming days to work on a longer-term recovery plan. The Red Cross is able to provide assistance through the generosity of our donors and the commitment of our volunteers.</p>

<p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Valentine’s Day is one of the most popular days to get engaged, setting the stage for couples to begin planning their perfect wedding. While some may envision a local celebration, many are choosing to tie the knot in breathtaking destinations. In fact, according to The Knot, approximately 17% of couples opted for a destination wedding in 2024—nearly one in five choosing to say “I do” away from home.</span></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">For couples looking beyond traditional venues, Expedia Cruises in Brookfield offers more than just cruise vacations. Under the leadership of Mary and Jim Villamana, Connecticut’s first-ever Expedia Cruises agency specializes in destination weddings and all-inclusive resort getaways, including the romantic, luxury experiences offered by Sandals Resorts. Whether it’s a beachfront ceremony in the Caribbean, an intimate gathering in Europe, or an all-inclusive resort celebration with loved ones, their team ensures a seamless planning experience.</span></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">A destination wedding isn’t just about the ceremony—it’s about creating an unforgettable experience. With expert travel guidance from Expedia Cruises Brookfield, couples can enjoy stress-free planning, curated travel packages, and exclusive deals to make their wedding dreams a reality.</span></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Ready to start planning? Visit Jim and Mary Villamana at 67 Federal Road, Brookfield, call (203) 429-5589, or explore your options online:</span><a href="https://www.expediacruises.com/en-US/900221/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"> Expedia Cruises Brookfield</a><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">.</span></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">&nbsp;</span></p><p><br></p><p><br></p>

<p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">** </span><em style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Twenty-four hours after experiencing A.C.T. of Connecticut’s Fiddler on the Roof, my head is still completely occupied with the powerful songs, scenes, and especially the timeless messag</em><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">e - Fiddler attendee after Thursday evening's performance **</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">There are some stories that linger long after the final note is sung, the final spotlight dims, and the final curtain falls. "Fiddler on the Roof" is one of those stories. A timeless masterpiece, this beloved musical has been reimagined by A.C.T. of Connecticut’s Artistic Director Daniel C. Levine in a way that is both deeply personal and strikingly relevant. From the storytelling to the casting, choreography, and powerhouse ensemble, Levine has once again, raised Broadway’s bar. Together with Musical Director&nbsp;Bryan Perri, and Producing Director, Erin Craig, A.C.T. of CT’s Fiddler is anything but predictable—it’s riveting, raw, and profoundly relevant.&nbsp;</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Levine created a visually stunning and extremely effective prologue to the show which truly set the tone for what we were about to witness. I have never seen this in any other production of the show and I don’t want to give too much away, but Levine’s 3-minute prologue immediately draws audiences into the story and prepares us for what we are all about to collectively witness. Parts of the performance can be hard to watch (in the best possible way). Levine explores things that can be hard to face, and that we tend not to think about. And, just like life, it can be hard to grasp why and how people can persecute those different from themselves. Levine’s production challenges us to face these difficult moments without forcing any agenda. It is beautifully and cleanly presented through an almost cinematic lens. You forget that you are watching these events unfold right in front of you. That’s the magic of theater. It is also amazing to think about the fact that this level of theater takes place right here in Ridgefield.</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Levine’s connection to Jewish culture is deeply personal. “From my family’s escape from the pogroms in Russia to the cherished rituals of Shabbat dinners to the enduring legacy of ‘always remember, never forget,’ these traditions and memories shape my work. They fuel my commitment to honoring the resilience and history of the people you are about to meet.” He adds, “Bearing witness is essential, and that’s a cornerstone of our production.”</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">The cast doesn’t just play these roles—they inhabit them, breathing life into the Jewish village of Anatevka in Imperial Russia at the turn of the 20th century. They are </span><em style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">these people</em><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">—their struggles, joys, and unshakable spirit made real on stage. The story follows Tevye, a humble milkman, and his family as they navigate faith, love, and the weight of changing societal norms.</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Tevye is portrayed by the uber-talented Danny Rothman, a man full of life</span><em style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;"> in every way</em><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">. Robust, funny, and deeply devoted to his faith and family. Rothman’s Tevye is a man who wrestles with his beliefs, ultimately choosing love over rigid tradition. Alongside him, Jennifer Babiak’s Golde brings warmth, strength, and humor to the role of his steadfast wife. Their five daughters—Tzeitel (Ariella Serur), Hodel (Ruthy Froch), Chava (Skye Gillespie), Shprintze (Sarah Milnamow), and Bielke (Cadence Siriani)—each navigate the delicate balance between honoring their heritage and forging their own paths. And Lori Ada Jaroslow shines as the witty, meddling matchmaker Yente, determined to decide the fates of the young people of Anatevka.</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Levine collaborated with choreographer Josh Assor to ensure the movements in this production evoke the emotional core of Jewish culture while reimagining the classic choreography originally created by Jerome Robbins. The result is a dance language that feels rooted in tradition yet fresh and dynamic. Under the outstanding music direction of Perri, A.C.T.’s 11-piece orchestra provides an evocative soundtrack that breathes life into the world of Anatevka.</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">One of the most thrilling moments in "Fiddler" is the unforgettable dream sequence—a scene that feels more like a full-blown nightmare. To heighten its surreal quality, Levine envisioned the use of intricately designed masks and puppets to bring the spirits of the dream to life in a bold and visually stunning way. Renowned artist Norvel Hermanovski was brought in to craft these otherworldly creations, making this scene unlike anything audiences have ever seen before.</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Visually, this production is breathtaking. The innovative projections don’t just complement the storytelling; they place the audience inside the village, immersing them in the world of Anatevka as though they are living within it. The dynamic multimedia design, paired with Levine’s innovative direction, creates an experience that is both theatrical and cinematic.</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">This is theater that doesn’t just entertain—it challenges, provokes, and ultimately transforms. As Levine so eloquently puts it, “I believe you will walk out of our theater different than how you walked in.”</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">A.C.T. of Connecticut’s "Fiddler on the Roof" runs from February 6 through March 3, 2025. Due to overwhelming demand, an additional performance was just added on Sunday, February 16 at 7 pm. Tickets are available at</span><a href="https://www.actofct.org/fiddler-on-the-roof" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;"> </a><a href="actofct.org" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204); background-color: transparent;">actofct.org</a><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;"> or call 475-215-5497. You can also add your name to the wait list of sold-out performances.&nbsp;</span></p><h2><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">“L'chaim!!</span></h2><p><br></p>

<p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">The City of Danbury has been awarded $4,000,000 in LOTCIP (Local Transportation Capital Improvement Program) for Danbury’s Streetscape Renaissance Project.</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">The Streetscape Project, now entering Phase II, is our opportunity to transform the heart of our City into a more vibrant, pedestrian-friendly, economically viable community. By upgrading the sidewalks, lighting, and making other improvements to the roadways, Danbury can better show investors, developers, current property owners, and residents that we’re invested in our community.</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">"This $4 million LOTCIP grant from WestCOG is another incredible win for Danbury,” said Mayor Alves. “It will allow us to continue our work to transform our streetscapes, creating the kind of vibrant, walkable Main Street and downtown that drives economic growth and enhances the quality of life for residents and visitors alike. This is a major step in our plan to create a stronger, more connected future for Danbury.”</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">LOTCIP funding is specifically meant to support municipal projects including streetscapes, sidewalks, pedestrian bridges, and traffic improvements. The Planning &amp; Zoning Department, led by Director Waleed Albakry, is making every effort to find grant funding to fulfill the entirety of the streetscape project. In addition to applying for LOTCIP funding, Director Albakry has a pending application with the State’s Community Investment Fund. The project is also using funds previously allocated by the State of CT for this intention.</span></p>

<p>DANBURY, Connecticut — <a href="https://www.wcsu.edu" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Western Connecticut State University</a> will launch its second annual Wolves Day of Giving, presented by <a href="https://www.ivesbank.com/ivesbank" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Ives Bank</a>, on Thursday, Feb. 20. This daylong event will focus on the gift of education. All contributions made during Wolves Day of Giving will directly impact WestConn and its students.</p><p>Multiple WestConn offices and departments will be part of Wolves Day of Giving and there will be a variety of competitive and social events to encourage participation on campus. Donors can also choose to support the event online or by visiting the landing pages of participating departments and offices. Each area has a video and/or text explanation of “Our Story,” along with specific fundraising opportunities, and in some cases, a running tally of funds raised by competing areas. These pages can be accessed from <a href="https://wolvesgivingday.wcsu.edu/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://wolvesgivingday.wcsu.edu/</a>. </p><p>The anticipation for Wolves Day of Giving is building on campus. Anyone in the community can participate, advocate and demonstrate their Wolves spirit on Thursday, Feb. 20. Check <a href="https://wolvesgivingday.wcsu.edu/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://wolvesgivingday.wcsu.edu/</a> regularly for updates and information. </p><p>For more information, contact Communications and Marketing at <a href="mailto:pr@wcsu.edu" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">pr@wcsu.edu</a>.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Helen W. Buzaid, 95, of Danbury, died peacefully on Wednesday, February 5, 2025. She was the loving wife of the late Honorable Judge Norman A. Buzaid.</p><p>Helen was born in the Bronx, NY on July 5, 1929; a daughter of the late Henry and Helen (Schwartz) Weber. She is a graduate of the School of the Holy Child located in upper Manhattan where she formed lifelong friendships and developed a deep abiding concern and commitment for others. She went on to graduate from the College of New Rochelle. She became a public-school teacher in New York City before her marriage and relocation to Danbury.</p><p>A longtime resident of Danbury, Mrs. Buzaid earned her Master’s degree from Western Connecticut State University and taught in the Danbury public schools.</p><p>Mrs. Buzaid was a volunteer at the Dorothy Day Hospitality House, a member of the Danbury Women’s Club, and the Tarrywile Park Commission. She was a parishioner of Saint Peter Church, Danbury.</p><p>Most importantly, for her, she was a devoted mother, grandmother and great-grandmother.</p><p>Mrs. Buzaid is survived by her five children: Peter N. Buzaid and his wife, Maria; Ann M. Buzaid; John H. Buzaid and his wife, Elizabeth; James G. Buzaid and his wife, Cynthia; and Christopher J. Buzaid and his wife, Debbie. Mrs. Buzaid is also survived by her (grandchildren/their spouses; Katherine Goffman and her husband Ron, Elena Buzaid and her husband Ian, Helen Reilly and her husband Steven, William Buzaid and his wife Jenna, Daniel Buzaid, Rebecca Groffman, Caitlin Buzaid and her husband Chad, Gabrielle Buzaid, Jacqueline Chambers and her husband Marqus, Sean Buzaid, Luke Buzaid, James Buzaid, Emily Buzaid, Christopher Buzaid and Catherine Buzaid. She also is survived by six great children Nicole, George, Josie, Julia, Graciela and Brady. She is also survived by her sister-in-law Norma Johnson and two nieces Jennifer Bouvier and Elizabeth Johnson.</p><p>In addition to her parents, and her husband, Mrs. Buzaid was predeceased by her grandson, Nicholas Buzaid.</p><p><strong>Family and friends will be received on Sunday, February 9, 2025 from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM at Jowdy-Kane Funeral Home; 9 Granville Avenue, Danbury. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Monday, February 10, 2025 at 10:30 AM in Saint Peter Church; 121 Main Street, Danbury. Interment will take place privately.</strong></p><p><strong>Contributions in Mrs. Buzaid’s memory may be made to Dorothy Day Hospitality House - PO Box 922; Danbury, CT&nbsp;06813,&nbsp;</strong><a href="http://www.dorothydaydanbury.org" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 255);"><strong>http://www.dorothydaydanbury.org/</strong></a>Da</p>