Stories
<p>FAIRFIELD, CT – On October 27, at approximately 9:55am, the Fairfield County Regional Dispatch Center received a report of an armed carjacking in the area of Walls Drive and North Benson Road.</p><p>Upon arrival, officers located the victim, who reported that they were stopped at a red light in their Porsche 911 Carrera when a gray BMW 5 Series with a misused Connecticut plate cut in front and blocked their vehicle. A male suspect exited the passenger side of the BMW, approached the driver’s side window and demanded the driver exit the vehicle. No injuries were reported during the incident.</p><p>The suspect is described as a Black male in his 20s, approximately six feet tall with a slim build, wearing dark clothing including a hooded sweatshirt, mask, sunglasses and sweatpants. He displayed a handgun and instructed the driver to unlock the doors and exit. After the victim complied, the suspect entered the Porsche and fled northbound on I-95 (Exit 22), with the BMW following at high speed.</p><p>An initial investigation revealed that the suspect followed the victim from a nearby gas station prior to the carjacking. Fairfield Police personnel and detectives have been actively working investigative leads through the evening, and this case remains an ongoing, active investigation. Updates will be provided as additional information becomes available.</p><p>“Our priority is the safety and well-being of the Fairfield community. We encourage residents to stay alert and take simple precautions to help protect themselves. The Fairfield Police Department remains vigilant and is dedicated to thoroughly investigating incidents like these and keeping our community safe.”</p><p>To support residents in staying vigilant, the Fairfield Police Department offers these general safety tips to help keep residents safe on the road:</p><p><strong>Stay Alert</strong>: Be aware of your surroundings, especially when stopped at intersections or in unfamiliar areas.</p><p><em>The Fairfield Police Department remains dedicated to maintaining a safe community, protecting life and property, reducing crime and the fear of crime and to performing its function in a manner which promotes public trust and confidence. The Department strives to achieve its mission through the core values of Professionalism, Honor and Excellence. </em><strong style="color: rgb(0, 32, 96);"> </strong></p><p><strong>Leave Space</strong>: If possible, leave some distance between your vehicle and the one in front of you at stops to allow for an exit if needed.</p><p><strong>Keep Doors Locked</strong>: Lock your doors and keep windows up, particularly when stopped in high-traffic or isolated areas.</p><p><strong>Limit Distractions</strong>: Avoid using phones or other devices that could distract you when stopped in traffic or at lights.</p><p><strong>Report Suspicious Activity</strong>: If you notice any suspicious behavior or believe you’re being followed, drive to a well-lit, populated area and contact local law enforcement.</p><p>Anyone with information that could assist in identifying the suspect(s) is asked to contact the Fairfield Police Department at (203) 254-4800. Anonymous tips can be submitted via the Fairfield PD mobile app, by texting the keyword <strong>FPDCT </strong>followed by your message to 847411 (Tip411), or online at <a href="fpdct.com/tips" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 255);">fpdct.com/tips</a>. </p>
<p><strong style="color: rgb(8, 8, 8);">CROMWELL, Conn. </strong><span style="color: rgb(8, 8, 8);">— </span><span style="color: rgb(45, 41, 38);">An election's approach always seems to turn up the emotional heat across the nation, and this year is no exception. When emotions run high, bad actors look for ways to use people's passion to trick them.</span></p><h3><span style="color: rgb(45, 41, 38);">Check your email links</span></h3><p><span style="color: rgb(45, 41, 38);">Scammers mimic campaign emails not to get your vote-- but to obtain your personal information and potentially divert your contributions elsewhere. What looks like a legitimate donation request might actually be an attempt to access your bank account or credit card information.</span></p><p><em style="color: rgb(45, 41, 38);">Be especially careful of emails with links. Phishing emails might include a link that takes users to a spoofed version of a candidate's website or installs malware on your device. </em></p><h3><span style="color: rgb(45, 41, 38);">When fraudsters give you a ring</span></h3><p><span style="color: rgb(45, 41, 38);">Actual campaign supporters call people to conduct surveys or solicit donations. Scammers often do the same thing. They might try to scam you over the phone by asking you to:</span></p><ul><li><span style="color: rgb(45, 41, 38);">Answer survey questions – then ask for your personal information like your social security number or birthdate. Sometimes, they also offer a prize or gift card in exchange for your time. They may ask you to give a credit card number to cover shipping. </span></li><li><span style="color: rgb(45, 41, 38);">Donate funds – and if you give them your account information, they've got you. How do you know if the fundraising effort is legit? Find the official website for the campaign. </span></li><li><span style="color: rgb(45, 41, 38);">Register to vote – Fraudsters might say you're not registered and offer to help you with the process over the phone, then steal personally identifying information. </span></li></ul><p><em style="color: rgb(45, 41, 38);">It's common for actual candidates to use pre-recorded messages to reach out to the public. Scammers sometimes use </em><a href="https://r4btdwoab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001OheONc7j4YOYQd3atpRspaBcWBn6GT-f2FKZHliyRrH-pRhIEFrdR0OVVW7tQlDPOO5JSXCPjyL1976FT04h2Zk865_bcLtcvK94F2FWiwmnNtlhBbB_7R07PMCKkYSKgAwsmmmCAmVY-9okhlPOqGtJfPVU6wZnlPYl4Bn5bmvyJC7yOeDk2NbwhM8qpy0E4lGHipy5KmhbP1Khsu3wFrLyqCWzw8sBARU9R9XuAS4aLpNL8m4xj1kS_ORItap2&c=IzpEb2WI7zj9bKUDRLi-t28B8sp-xzI2BYmpOpZ2tf_llwfWAdtEWw==&ch=v__8pHrcD9g87-ushauXs18zEtzYxGt91jfJyBpLZJTfyUBjzNW8vA==" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(55, 120, 153);"><em>voice cloning</em></a><em style="color: rgb(45, 41, 38);"> to make it sound like an authentic message from a candidate and persuade people to donate or share info.</em></p><h3><span style="color: rgb(45, 41, 38);">Trickery by text</span></h3><p><span style="color: rgb(45, 41, 38);">You might receive a message that looks like it came from a trusted source, inviting you to participate in a poll or make a donation. Tricksters might be out to get your passwords, account numbers, social security number or other data. </span></p><p><em style="color: rgb(45, 41, 38);">Sometimes, con artists send a text about a fake problem. For example, an individual might get a text that looks like it came from their bank, asking if they really made a donation to a candidate, organization or party with a prompt to reply "yes" or "no." If the person replies no, the scammer calls them and asks for their account login, numbers or password to investigate or dispute the transaction.</em></p><p><span style="color: rgb(45, 41, 38);">There's also the text-your-vote scam. Con artists send text messages urging people to text their vote rather than voting in person or by mail. When voters believe them, they don't show up to actually vote, and their chance to participate in elections is lost.</span></p><h3><span style="color: rgb(45, 41, 38);">Election cybersecurity tips</span></h3><ul><li>Check your links. Never click on a link in an email or text unless you trust exactly where it is going.</li><li>See prizes as a red flag. Legitimate pollsters don't usually offer a prize for completing a survey.</li><li>Know what pollsters don't need. They might ask for demographic information or what party you most align with, but they don't need personal information like birth dates, social security numbers or financial information. </li><li>No state offers voter registration by phone.</li></ul><p><strong style="color: rgb(45, 41, 38);">Report suspicious activities to </strong><a href="https://r4btdwoab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001OheONc7j4YOYQd3atpRspaBcWBn6GT-f2FKZHliyRrH-pRhIEFrdR-gDpenQLQFbaUESbxxSykapHTqV8gPtYpaYBfTjxeyDuN5zMYLdMfTA24PQq5eCDXZdkkbtbh-Bqb-YwCSOgUgaGkOjy797WpUo4i11xrfI&c=IzpEb2WI7zj9bKUDRLi-t28B8sp-xzI2BYmpOpZ2tf_llwfWAdtEWw==&ch=v__8pHrcD9g87-ushauXs18zEtzYxGt91jfJyBpLZJTfyUBjzNW8vA==" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(45, 41, 38);"><strong>BBB's Scam Tracker</strong></a><strong style="color: rgb(45, 41, 38);">.</strong></p><p><span style="color: rgb(45, 41, 38);">If you're wondering about the Do Not Call Registry, there are exemptions for some political calls. Check out the </span><a href="https://r4btdwoab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001OheONc7j4YOYQd3atpRspaBcWBn6GT-f2FKZHliyRrH-pRhIEFrdR0OVVW7tQlDPhA_hd706q8XfLKtzhIXY-nWuKtTagPLD0E7lva6o0ThhzivgoZi0wG036awywxoh1qU418Yyotqg5-xIyCzSCFumQOchJaE_rwaDjQyhTgrBGSvDJyYUC2ZTu_brcmtY1IvlCc0ljyA=&c=IzpEb2WI7zj9bKUDRLi-t28B8sp-xzI2BYmpOpZ2tf_llwfWAdtEWw==&ch=v__8pHrcD9g87-ushauXs18zEtzYxGt91jfJyBpLZJTfyUBjzNW8vA==" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(55, 120, 153);">DNC Registry rules</a><span style="color: rgb(45, 41, 38);"> as explained by the Federal Trade Commission.</span></p>
<p><strong>BRIDGEPORT, CT </strong>— <a href="https://housatonicmuseum.org/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(70, 120, 134);"><strong>Housatonic Museum of Art (HMA)</strong></a> at Connecticut State Community College Housatonic has partnered with Art Bridges Foundation in Bentonville, Arkansas, to present “Storytelling Through the Art of Julie Buffalohead”, a free community program on <strong>Wed., Nov. 20</strong>. </p><p>This event is the result of an Art Bridges Learning & Engagement project that is centered around <em>Resurrection </em>by Julie Buffalohead, a celebrated Native American artist and member of the Ponca Tribe of Oklahoma. A hands-on artmaking workshop and discussion will explore the themes found in Buffalohead’s work, which is on loan from the Art Bridges Collection and currently on view in the Beacon Hall Event Center. </p><p>Attendees will engage in the artmaking workshop led by Darlene Kascak, Educational Outreach Ambassador at the Institute for American Indian Studies and a Schaghticoke Tribal Nation storyteller. Drawing inspiration from Buffalohead’s <em>Resurrection</em>, participants will create memory bead necklaces as active storytelling tools that deepen their connection to the painting.</p><p>As part of the event, Dr. Royce K. Young Wolf (Hiraacá, Nu’eta, and Sosore, ancestral Apsáalooke and Nʉmʉnʉʉ) — the inaugural Assistant Curator of Native American Art at Yale University Art Gallery and the Collection Manager of the Native North American and Indigenous Collection at the Yale Peabody Museum — will lead a discussion on the cultural significance of the artwork and Buffalohead’s broader impact as a Native American artist.</p><p>The partnership between Art Bridges and the HMA represents a pioneering effort to integrate student-led programming with professional, community-based art education. With this initiative, two community college interns have taken on key roles in selecting the artwork, applying for the grant and conceptualizing and delivering the event, underscoring the potential of community colleges to drive innovative art experiences. These students collaborated closely with Buffalohead, as well as Kascak and Dr. Young Wolf, and have helped shape a program that fosters engagement with Native American perspectives.</p><p>“We are incredibly proud of our CT State Community College students and their willingness to dive into an experimental project. The interns were involved in the very beginning of the project and guided our thinking and discussion around this unique opportunity,” said J<strong>ennifer Reynolds-Kaye, PhD, Director of the Housatonic Museum of Art. </strong>“We are grateful to the collaborative spirit of Art Bridges, CT State Community College, and our event facilitators, Dr. Young Wolf and Darlene Kascak. We are excited to create a powerful and meaningful experience with Buffalohead’s work for our community college students and learners of all ages.”</p><p><strong><u>Event Details</u></strong></p><p><strong>What:</strong> Storytelling through the Art of Julie Buffalohead</p><p><strong>When:</strong> Wednesday, November 20, 2024</p><p><strong>Time:</strong> 3-6 p.m.</p><p><strong>Where:</strong> Housatonic Museum of Art, Beacon Hall Event Center, 900 Lafayette Blvd., Bridgeport, Connecticut. Free parking in the CT State Housatonic parking lot, 870 Lafayette Blvd.</p><p>This event is free and open to the public. Please RSVP at <a href="https://housatonicmuseum.org/index.php?option=com_rsform&view=forms&layout=edit&formId=53" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(70, 120, 134);">bit.ly/hma-buffalohead-rsvp</a>.</p><p>Visit <a href="https://housatonicmuseum.org/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(70, 120, 134);">housatonicmuseum.org</a> to learn more.</p><p><br></p>
<p class="ql-align-center"><strong>GREENWICH, CT –</strong> Scott Mitchell and the Mitchell family, third generation owners of Richards of Greenwich, were honored for their extraordinary contributions to the vital retail sector on Greenwich Avenue and their long history of community service and generous philanthropy, at Greenwich Historical Society’s <a href="https://greenwichhistory.org/history-in-the-making/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(70, 120, 134);">History in the Making award dinner</a><span style="color: rgb(70, 120, 134);"> </span><span style="color: windowtext;">on</span> October 24, at the Round Hill Club. The annual benefit supports the Historical Society’s arts and education programs.</p><p><strong>NBC-TV news anchor Al Roker</strong> presented the award to Scott Mitchell and interviewed him about the family’s long history of service and retail leadership. <strong>Allan Houston</strong>, the 2023 History in the Making honoree, made closing remarks about the Mitchell’s legacy.</p><p>As a long-time customer familiar with the family’s customer philosophy, <strong>Al Roker</strong> opened the fireside chat saying, “So much about the Mitchell’s DNA is in giving back.”</p><p>Scott Mitchell underscored the importance of hard work, relationships and common interests with customers as critical factors in the family’s success:<strong> “</strong>We need to be open about the important things in life. Our customers tell us what is important to them, so it becomes important to us<strong>.”</strong></p><p>Mitchell cited the importance of getting involved with something that matters: “Do something you are passionate about. Don’t underestimate your time. The more you give the more you get.”</p><p>In closing <strong>Allan Houston</strong> said the Mitchells live family and service every day. “When people come into the store they feel a legacy. You feel like family, and you find some really cool stuff. It never disappoints!”</p><p>“It is a tremendous privilege for our family to receive this award, especially considering the long list of outstanding leaders who have been honored,” said Mitchell. “Our family’s history of retail leadership and philanthropy dates to founders Ed and Norma Mitchell who opened the first store with three men’s suits, a coffee pot and a dream based on a strong sense of community service. That focus remains at the heart of our operation just as it has for three generations.”</p><p>The Mitchell family supports many worthy causes that include promotion of the arts, the preservation of Long Island Sound, critical health initiatives and breaking the cycle of poverty.</p><p>“It is a great honor to provide the Mitchells with this year’s History in the Making award in front of a capacity crowd of admirers and supporters,” says Historical Society Executive Director and CEO Debra Mecky. “The family’s accomplishments over the years since they first arrived on Greenwich Avenue in 1995 have had a profound impact on the town and its worldwide reputation for luxury retailing. Their retail philosophy and commitment to philanthropic causes that impact the community have set a high bar for compassion and excellence.”</p><p>Established in 2003, History in the Making recognizes outstanding individuals from the community who are the history makers of their time for having made a positive impact on the region and the world, and to provide a forum for learning about their thought-provoking ideas and perspectives.</p><p>The Mitchell family follows a long and impressive list of people who have been honored with the History in the Making Award. In addition to Allan Houston, other awardees include <strong>Ray </strong>and <strong>Barbara Dalio</strong>, <strong>Indra Nooyi, Derek Boothby, Thomas Foley, Curt Welling, Marie </strong>and <strong>Charlene Von Saher</strong> and <strong>Lewis Lehrman</strong>.</p><p>For more information please visit: <a href="https://greenwichhistory.org/history-in-the-making/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(70, 120, 134);">https://greenwichhistory.org/history-in-the-making/</a></p>
<p class="ql-align-center"><strong>New Haven, CT:</strong> National Nachos Day is November 6 and nachopreneur Alex P. Taylor is celebrating in grand style with the release of his “Most Unique and Creative Nachos in Every State” list. Nicknamed “The Nacho King of Connecticut,” upon sharing his love for all things layered with cheesy, meaty, spicy, creamy, fresh, and creative goodness on <a href="https://alexptaylor.com/highlight-reel" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(70, 120, 134);">local and national media outlets</a>, including Great Day Connecticut, Connecticut's Morning Buzz, FOX 61, WTNH’s This Week in Connecticut, HBO’s Last Week Tonight with John Oliver, and even on the Bravo reality show Below Deck where the yacht’s private chef and Alex teamed up to create octopus nachos, Alex has been showcasing original nacho recipes from his upcoming cookbook, <em>Totally Nachrageous: Lessons in Life and Nachos</em>.</p><p>Research for the book began in Alex’s home state of Connecticut, where he scoured the internet and social media and reached out to his fellow food influencers in search of the most unique and creative nachos. One chip led to another, and Alex found there was a whole country of nacho-lovin’ food enthusiasts and restaurateurs taking this popular Mexican bar food to a whole new level, which shouldn’t come as a surprise with 21% of restaurants in the US offering nachos on their menus (<a href="https://tastewise.io/foodtrends/nachos" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(70, 120, 134);"><em>Tastewise</em></a><em>) and a global nachos market valued at $1.596 billion and projected to rise 5+% in 2024 (</em><a href="https://www.marketresearchfuture.com/reports/nachos-market-1680#:~:text=Global%20Nachos%20Market%20Overview,drivers%20enhancing%20the%20market%20growth." rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(70, 120, 134);"><em>Market Research Future, 2023</em></a><em>).</em></p><p>“This list is very different from other lists available online. It's a list made for all of the adventurous nacho lovers out there,” says Alex, “From nacho fusion to the most unique toppings and cultural ingredients, I’ve compiled a fun list of daring restaurants and bars that have boldly gone where no nachos have gone before.”</p><p class="ql-align-center"> From yuca frita nachos topped with pepper jack cheese, tomato, scallions, house-made salsa and guacamole, and juicy pork belly from <em>Barracuda Bistro & Bar</em> in New Haven, CT to Boise, Idaho’s <em>10 Barrel Brewing Co</em>’s steak nachos layered with seasoned potato chips, grilled steak, bacon, jalapeño, bleu and mixed cheeses, 4-cheese sauce, and green onions, Alex’s <a href="https://alexptaylor.com/most-unique-nachos-1" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(70, 120, 134);">Totally Nachrageous list of national nacho creations</a> is a virtual food tour across the country that has the makings of a delicious road trip for adventurous foodies.</p><p><a href="http://www.alexptaylor.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(70, 120, 134);">www.alexptaylor.com</a> and @alexptaylor1 </p>
<p class="ql-align-center"><strong style="color: rgb(24, 25, 26);">FC BUZZ HamletHub Weekend October 25 - 27</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/enchanted-forest" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong>Enchanted Forest</strong></a></p><p><strong>Connecticut Audubon Society Fairfield Nature Center</strong></p><p>Friday Oct 25, 5:00 pm - 7:30 pm</p><p>Have a fun (but not scary) experience being escorted through the luminary trail and learning about nocturnal animals in their natural habitats. Live animals — including owls — plus crafts, snacks and hot chocolate, will round out this nature-themed, outdoors-only event. Costumes encouraged! Guided walks leave every 15 minutes beginning at 5 p.m. You must be pre-registered, no walk-ins. Last walk leaves at 7:15 p.m.</p><p><a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/events/the-spooky-art-show" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong>The SPOOKY Art Show</strong></a></p><p><strong>PROJECT303</strong></p><p>Friday Oct 25, 5:00 pm - 9:00 pm</p><p>A bizarre collection of drawings, paintings and sculptures from 30 of New England's finest art fiends! Many works are for sale.</p><p><a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/events/hauntings-and-history-at-hoyt-barnum" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong>Hauntings and History at Hoyt-Barnum</strong></a></p><p><strong>Stamford History Center</strong></p><p>Friday Oct 25, 6:00 pm - 9:00 pm</p><p>Just in time for All Hallows' Eve, Hauntings and History at Hoyt-Barnum, is back for one night only. Dr. Zoubek takes you on a time-traveling tour back to Colonial Stamford giving you a glimpse of what life was like. Step into the Hoyt-Barnum House Stamford's oldest remaining dwelling filled with Colonial artifacts for a truly interactive experience. Book now to reserve your place. Tours are offered at 6, 7, and 8pm.</p><p><a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/events/performing-arts-at-moca-viano-string-quartet" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong>Performing Arts at MoCA: Viano String Quartet</strong></a></p><p><strong>MoCA Westport</strong></p><p>Friday Oct 25, 7:00 pm - 12:00 am</p><p>Come as early as 6:30 PM to purchase a drink and check out the current exhibition. “…hair raising, with bolts of lightning flashing from many pages…” — (American Record Guide). The name “Viano” was created to describe the four individual instruments in a string quartet interacting as one. Each of the four instruments begins with the letter “v”, and like a piano, all four string instruments together play both harmony and melody, creating a unified instrument called the “Viano”.</p><p><a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/events/north-county-band" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong>North County Band</strong></a></p><p><strong>Stamford Center for the Arts</strong></p><p>Friday Oct 25, 8:00 pm - 10:00 pm</p><p>The North County band is the creative culmination of Chicago-born singer-songwriter Scott Smith and Texas fiddle sensation, Cat Lines. Together they summoned some of Connecticut's most seasoned and versatile musicians to compliment their songwriting craft & musical prowess and to deliver a unique signature sound. They are currently touring New England in support of their sophomore release - “Lay it on the Line”</p><p><a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/events/the-wilton-playshop-presents-the-musical-rent-448b4" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong>The Musical RENT</strong></a></p><p><strong>The Wilton Playshop</strong></p><p>Friday Oct 25, 8:00 pm - 10:00 pm</p><p>Set in the vibrant, bohemian world of New York City's East Village, Rent follows a group of friends navigating life, love, and artistic dreams while grappling with the realities of poverty and illness. With a dynamic rock score and unforgettable characters, this Tony Award-winning musical by Jonathan Larson delivers a powerful message about living life to the fullest, no matter the obstacles. With its iconic songs, including "Seasons of Love," "La Vie Bohème," and "Take Me or Leave Me," Rent is a thrilling, emotional ride that will leave you inspired and moved.</p><p><a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/events/dracula-a-feminist-revenge-fantasty-really-fcc69" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong>Dracula: A Feminist Revenge Fantasty. Really</strong></a></p><p><strong>Powerhouse Theatre Performing Arts Center</strong></p><p>Friday Oct 25, 7:30 pm - 10:30 pm</p><p>Come see Dracula and his household ‘play with their food, pursued by ‘lady doctor’ Van Helsing. Will the hunter become the hunted? It’s bloody good fun, for ages 14 and up.</p><p><a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/events/art-in-the-park-free-art-workshops-for-kids-families-67570" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong>Art in the Park: Free Art Workshops for Kids & Families</strong></a></p><p><strong>Whittingham Discovery Center</strong></p><p>Saturday Oct 26, 10:00 am - 12:00 pm</p><p>Presented by the Stamford Art Association and the Mill River Park Collaborative.</p><p><a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/events/gctyo-open-rehearsals" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong>GCTYO Open Rehearsals</strong></a></p><p><strong>Greater Connecticut Youth Orchestras</strong></p><p>Saturday Oct 26, 10:00 am - 11:15 amProspective musicians and their families are invited to view and listen to Saturday morning rehearsals in Fairfield. In addition to touring the school and popping in on orchestra and sectional rehearsals, families will be invited to meet students, parents and Board Members and participate in a Q&A with Music Director Chris Hisey. Learn the history and philosophy of GCTYO and what makes us a thriving and exciting organization valued by more than 300 families. Attending a Fall Concert on November 24 will round out the GCTYO experience for prospective members.</p><p><a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/events/family-day-animals-in-art" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong>Family Day: Animals in Art</strong></a></p><p><strong>Bellarmine Hall</strong></p><p>Saturday Oct 26, 12:30 pm - 4:00 pm</p><p>During this Family Day event, kids ages 4-10 will get to challenge their creativity as participate in a range of hands-on projects, a scavenger hunt, and more!</p><p><a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/events/25th-annual-benefit-auction-party" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong>25th Annual Benefit Auction + Party</strong></a></p><p><strong>Center for Contemporary Printmaking</strong></p><p>Saturday Oct 26, 6:00 pm - 9:00 pm</p><p>Come see the Center decorated with lights and packed with all the incredible Monotypes created during Monothon Print Week. The party is a fundraising ticketed event and will include a silent auction, live auction, heavy hors d’oeuvres, wine, and other beverages.</p><p><a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/events/monte-carlo-masquerade" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong>Monte Carlo Masquerade</strong></a></p><p><strong>Westport Woman's Club</strong></p><p>Saturday Oct 26, 7:00 pm - 10:00 pm</p><p>Don your finest mask, evening wear or costume to join the Westport Museum for our Halloween extravaganza, Monte Carlo Masquerade. Enjoy casino games, signature cocktails including the Sorel Morticia Addams, delicious food, unique silent auction items, and happening live music at Westport’s beautiful Women’s Club at the museum’s biggest annual fundraiser.</p><p><a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/events/norwalk-symphony---2024-2025-season---october-26" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong>Norwalk Symphony</strong></a></p><p><strong>Norwalk Concert Hall</strong></p><p>Saturday Oct 26, 7:30 pm - 9:30 pm</p><p>Norwalk Symphony opens its 85th season at the Norwalk Concert Hall presenting local and international star Alexander Markov performing Mendelssohn's Violin Concerto. Also on the program are Verdi's La Forza del Destino and Brahms' Symphony No. 3.</p><p><a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/events/artist-talk-with-kumi-the-elusive-art-of-kumi-yamashita-exhibit" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong>ARTIST TALK with Kumi: The Elusive Art of Kumi Yamashita Exhibit</strong></a></p><p><strong>Flinn Gallery</strong></p><p>Saturday Oct 26, 2:00 pm - 3:00 pm</p><p>Meet artist Kumi Yamashita as she discusses the works in this one woman show, including the fascinating Light & Shadow series. The exhibition also includes provocative portraits created by winding a single unbroken sewing thread around thousands of small galvanized nails - Yamashita will describe her process to create these images, and other works in the exhibit.</p><p><a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/events/pequot-library-s-135th-annual-meeting" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong>135th Annual Meeting</strong></a></p><p><strong>Pequot Library</strong></p><p>Sunday Oct 27, 4:00 pm - 5:30 pm</p><p>We welcome all to attend Pequot Library’s 135th Annual Meeting to celebrate the progress and accomplishments the library has seen in the last year. Friends of Pequot Library can vote on a slate of officers and board members for the upcoming year. The business portion of the meeting is from 4:00 to 5:00 p.m. and is followed by a special presentation by Connecticut State Librarian Deborah Schander. In her talk, “But More Life: Libraries in Modern Society,” she’ll discuss the state of libraries today, developed in conjunction with the fall exhibition, "A Community Treasure: Pequot Library turns 135".</p><p><a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/events/pipescreams-musical-extravaganza" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong>PIPESCREAMS MUSICAL EXTRAVAGANZA</strong></a></p><p><strong>First Church of Fairfield</strong></p><p>Sunday Oct 27, 4:00 pm - 5:30 pm</p><p>A concert of Halloween-themed and Broadway musical pieces featuring the mighty pipe organ, amazing choral ensembles, incredible musicians, a 1920’s silent film, costume contest with prizes, reception.</p><p>See these and discover hundreds more events on the <a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(2, 177, 151);">FCBUZZ EVENTS</a> page at <a href="https://culturalalliancefc.org/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(2, 177, 151);">https://culturalalliancefc.org</a> Sign up for the <a href="https://culturalalliancefc.org/resources/newsletter-sign-up/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(2, 177, 151);">Cultural Alliance eBuzz</a> to receive top picks and spotlights each week in your inbox.</p>
<p class="ql-align-center"><span style="color: var(--geeks-body-color);">Weston, CT - The Back Yard Beekeepers Association (BYBA) in Connecticut is proud to present well-known research biologist, Michael Simone-Finstrom as the October 29 speaker. </span><span style="text-align: left; font-weight: var(--geeks-body-font-weight); color: rgb(51, 51, 51);">The live presentation begins promptly at 7:30pm. We suggest arriving at 7:00 to allow time to socialize with other like-minded individuals. The location is Norfield Congregational Church located at 64 Norfield Rd in Weston, CT. </span></p><p>While honey bees contend with a number of threats, they have a number of natural defenses to combat them. Varroa mites are still one of the biggest threats to bee health, and using the bees to fight off these parasites and the viruses they vector is one key way to improve bee health and resiliency. We have clear evidence that promoting behavioral traits to fend off parasites and pathogens promotes healthier, stronger colonies in real-world settings. Current progress to developing and producing mite and virus resistant bees will be discussed along with the promotion of other disease resistance traits in honey bees.</p><p><span style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51);">Dr. Michael Simone-Finstrom is a Research Molecular Biologist with the USDA-ARS Honey Bee Breeding, Genetics and Physiology Research Unit in Baton Rouge, LA. His research has focused on individual and social mechanisms of disease resistance, including resin/propolis use, hygienic behavior and genetic diversity. His current work aims to add to this line of research by more fully understanding how these traits work in concert in order to promote them within the beekeeping industry and identify components of viral resistance in honey bees.</span></p><p>A question and answer opportunity follows the presentation. <span style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51);">This is our annual meeting. All officers will be elected at the Annual Meeting of the membership. The nominating committee will present a slate of Officers and Board Members to the General Membership to vote on. In the event candidates for an office present themselves at the meeting, the nominee receiving the most votes will be elected to that office. </span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51);">Questions? Contact BYBA’s Paula Wolf at </span><a href="mailto:paulawolf@email.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">paulawolf@email.com</a><span style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51);">. Even though the event is free, please register at </span><a href="https://backyardbeekeepers.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://backyardbeekeepers.com</a><span style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51);">.</span></p><p><em style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34);">The Back Yard Beekeepers Association (BYBA) is one of the Nation’s largest regional clubs for beekeeping hobbyists with over 400 members. Some of their members are just getting started as beekeepers, and some have enjoyed this hobby for years. All share an interest in the wonderful and remarkable world of the honey bee. The mission of BYBA is to provide their membership with a forum for sharing knowledge and mutual interests in beekeeping, and to educate and promote the benefits of beekeeping to the public. For more information, please visit </em><a href="https://backyardbeekeepers.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><em>backyardbeekeepers.com</em></a></p><p>📸 Photograph of Michael Simone-Finstrom supplied by the speaker</p>