<p><strong>August is on the horizon! Here's the latest from Milford Public Library</strong></p><p>Summer Reading continues through August 30! We also have a lot of engaging programs and events happening at the Library in August. We hope you can join us.</p><p>Become the City of Milford’s new Poet Laureate! Milford Public Library, Milford Arts Council, and Milford City Hall are searching for the next Milford Poet Laureate. Details about the position, including application information can be found right here on our website:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.ci.milford.ct.us/milford-public-library/pages/poet-laureate-program" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">milfordlibrary.org/pages/poet-laureate-program</a>. The deadline for applications is August 15, 2024.</p><p>Adult programs at the Library in August include Basic Image Editing and a very topical presentation about Digital Security. Young Adult programs will feature magic, drama, games, crafts, and virtual reality along with an interactive program about Pet Care 101 with the CT Humane Society. To celebrate the Paris Olympics, our Tuesday movie matinees this month, will be two films chronicling two different compelling true stories from the 1936 Olympic Games in Berlin:&nbsp;<em>RACE&nbsp;</em>highlights the historic races run by Jesse Owens while&nbsp;<em>The Boys in The Boat</em>&nbsp;follows the working-class crew of young men who were chosen to represent the United States in the highly competitive rowing event. For Young Adults, bobsled and basketball will be featured with the comedies,&nbsp;<em>Cool Runnings</em>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<em>Space Jam</em>. Registration for all Summer Reading programs may still be done on our website using READsquared or in-person at the Library.</p><p>As a reminder the Library will be closed on the following Saturdays in August: August 17th , 24th , &amp; 31st The library will also be closed on Labor Day, Monday, September 2nd</p><p>The Romance and Classic Book Discussion Groups will also meet in August as well as fascinating online author talks.</p><p>Visit our online program calendar at&nbsp;<a href="https://milford-pl.libcal.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://milford-pl.libcal.com</a>&nbsp;for&nbsp;the full listing of all programs and events. Paper calendars are still available and can be printed&nbsp;using the link below;&nbsp;copies are&nbsp;also available at all library service desks. As&nbsp;always, thank you to the Friends of Milford Library for funding all our programs!&nbsp;We all look forward to seeing you at the library!</p><p>Scott R. Brill, Library Director</p><p class="ql-align-center">Detailed information on all our programs can be found on our website,&nbsp;<a href="http://www.ci.milford.ct.us/milford-public-library" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">milfordlibrary.org</a>.&nbsp;</p><p class="ql-align-center"><a href="http://www.ci.milford.ct.us/subscribe" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Click here to have the calendar delivered monthly to your inbox!</a></p><p><br></p>

<p>Pantochino Teen Theatre is thrilled to present the Broadway musical, “Roald Dahl’s Charlie and the Chocolate Factory” at Arts Hall at the Educational Center for the Arts, on 55 Audubon Street in New Haven. Co-producers Bert Bernardi and Jimmy Johansmeyer have announced three performances, August 9 and 10.</p><p><br></p><p>Based on the famous novel by Roald Dahl,&nbsp;<em> </em>this new production features an original score composed by Marc Shaiman with lyrics by Shaiman and Scott Wittman (<em>Hairspray</em>) and a book by David Greig. The score also pays homage to the Leslie Bricusse/Anthony Newley score from the 1971 film with songs from the motion picture including "Candy Man," "Oompa Loompa Song," and "Pure Imagination."</p><p><br></p><p>The world-famous Willy Wonka is opening the gates to his mysterious factory but only to a lucky few. Young Charlie Bucket and four other golden ticket winners will embark on a life-changing journey through Wonka’s world of pure imagination.</p><p><br></p><p>“We’re delighted to give our young actors the opportunity to portray a host of familiar, classic characters from the novel and movies and we know audiences of all ages will marvel at the talents of these young performers,” said director Bernardi. The cast includes forty-three actors from Milford, Branford, Stratford, Trumbull, Orange, Woodbridge, East Haven, West Haven, Shelton, Oxford, Ansonia, Seymour, Monroe, Killingworth, and Bethany.</p><p><br></p><p>“Raold Dahl’s Charlie and the Chocolate Factory” is sponsored by The Milford Bank and The Devon Rotary with addition support from CT Humanities, the Connecticut Department of Economic and Community Development Office of the Arts and The Community Foundation of Greater New Haven. Pantochino’s season is sponsored by the City of Milford and Dennis Beirne of William Pitt Sotheby’s International Realty. The musical is produced through special arrangements with Music Theatre International of New York City.</p><p><br></p><p>Pantochino Teen Theatre allows young actors the opportunity to work with professional directors and designers outside the academic setting, on a schedule matching that of professional summer theater. The production<em> </em>has been cast, learned and rehearsed in an immersive ten rehearsals. Bernardi directs the show with Justin Rugg as musical director and Becki Arena, choreographer.</p><p><br></p><p>Performances are Friday, August 9 at 7:30pm and Saturday August 10 at 2 and 5:30pm. Information and tickets are available at <a href="http://www.pantochino.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">www.pantochino.com</a></p><p><br></p><p class="ql-align-center">####</p><p><br></p>

<h3>Don't Miss the Fairfield County Dance Festival This Summer! </h3><p>This summer, immerse yourself in the world of dance at the Fairfield County Dance Festival! The festival kicks off in Milford this Tuesday, July 16, at 6:30 PM on Milford Green, and continues in Norwalk on Wednesday, July 17, also at 6:30 PM, at Calf Pasture Beach. </p><p>With a series of seven performances, each one featuring a unique program, there's something new to experience at every show. Whether you choose to attend one, two, or all seven performances, you're in for a treat. Best of all, these events are completely FREE and open to the public.</p><p>This year's festival is produced by East Coast Contemporary Ballet and Thomas/Ortiz Dance, who will be joined by six guest companies: Alison Cook Beatty Dance, Neville Dance Theatre, Lydia Johnson Dance, Ballet Hartford, Ekklesia Ballet, and New England Ballet Theatre. This diverse lineup promises a vibrant and dynamic celebration of dance, showcasing a range of styles and talents.</p><p>Mark your calendars and join us for an unforgettable summer of dance!</p><p>Learn more: <a href="https://eccballet.org" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://eccballet.org/</a></p><p><br></p><p><br></p>

<p><strong>New Haven, CT</strong>: The Faxon Law New Haven Road Race is excited to celebrate its 47th anniversary this Labor Day, Monday, September 2. We host a half marathon, relay, 5K, Town Fair Tire Kids Fun Run, and the signature 20K.&nbsp;The Faxon Law New Haven 20K will again host the USATF 20K National Championship. The 20k race expects to feature a number of U.S. Olympians and U.S. National Champions. This year marks the 33rd&nbsp;year a national championship event has been held in New Haven, making the race the longest consecutive USATF Championship race ever. With over 1,000 runners already registered, the race is expected to have over 5,000 participants.&nbsp;All races start and finish on the historic New Haven Green.</p><p>Post-race beer is locally brewed by East Rock Brewery, located about a mile from the start line, will be pouring beer on the Green!</p><p>Packet pickup is Friday-Sunday of Labor Day weekend, participants can pick up their bib and shirt at Corsair, a luxury apartment building located in New Haven’s East Rock neighborhood.</p><p>The event offers something for the whole family with the ACES Kids Fun Zone. Kids can enjoy clowns, outdoor games, local college &amp; university mascots, and other fun outdoor activities on the New Haven Green.</p><p>2024 AVANGRID Green Initiative: The 2024 Faxon Law New Haven Road Race continues to reduce its carbon footprint! We have increased our efforts to go Green with additional changes being implemented. Our new initiatives to include using 100% recycled paper for all printed race material and packet pick-up bags, race shirts made from recycled materials, biodegradable cups and trash bags, eliminate the use of plastic water bottles, electric or low emission lead vehicles.</p><p>After the race, participants are encouraged to buy tickets for the BAR New Haven After Party. For just $14 for 21+ (under 21 must be accompanied by an adult), runners can sit back and relax from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at BAR New Haven. A ticket includes two slices of pizza and a beer for 21+. Tickets are limited.</p><p>The event is organized by JB Sports and a team of local volunteers who make up our Board of Directors.&nbsp;New Haven Road Race President, Michael Dolan states “We’ve been fortunate to continually grow and improve throughout our history. We are encouraged with participation levels so far this year, expecting nearly 5,000 people on Labor Day.&nbsp;The event’s success over the past 47 years reflects the support we receive from the City of New Haven, our sponsors and the local running community.”The New Haven Road Race would not be possible without the support of Faxon Law Group, title sponsor since 2007.&nbsp;Joel Faxon, founding partner at Faxon Law Group, said, “We are honored to again be title sponsor for this great event in the City of New Haven. The Faxon Law New Haven Road Race is an experience our Firm and the Elm City community are extremely proud to host each year. Faxon Law Group is pleased to support the substantial and meaningful donations to local charities that promote the same mission as our Firm’s Community Builder concept—to empower, enrich and engage members of our community—bringing groups together for the greater good. It’s a legacy that we treasure on behalf of both our clients and our staff.”</p><p>The event’s major sponsors include Faxon Law Group, Avelo Airlines, McDermott Lexus, ACES, Town Fair Tire, Corsair, Connecticut Orthopaedic Specialists, Pebbles Toy Store and the City of New Haven.&nbsp;To learn more about the event or to register, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.newhavenroadrace.org/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: blue;"><u>www.newhavenroadrace.org</u></a>.</p><p><br></p>

<p><span style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);">Milford Micro is an innovative, accessible, on-demand ride service. This exciting service is available to anyone wanting to get to work, go to restaurants, and more! Funded by the Connecticut Department of Transportation and the Milford Transit District, the program uses accessible vans and sedans to bring people all over Milford. This program utilizes fully vetted and trained drivers and is operated by a local company, M7.</span></p><p><strong style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);">How does Milford Micro work?</strong></p><p><span style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);">Instead of buses on fixed routes, Milford Micro passenger vans and vehicles operate on-demand in a designated zone to connect you to where you want to go…when you want to go. When you order a ride, the program will look to match you with a vehicle headed in your direction – it’s as simple as that!</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);">How do I book a ride with Milford Micro?</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);">There are three ways to book a ride with Milford Micro:</span></p><ul><li><span style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);">Download the app and create an account using the QR code above.</span></li><li><span style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);">Click&nbsp;</span><a href="https://xd9j784ab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001IBwIz5Ku-cRELea8F9nnZoniFgWN_ncgQvFBJKchK8nmxeXjP-XYPz0DIqZGKthMpzXy__09hqtR95laWJNsFFb5Ch8eV0FA2qgVR9nGyg_r1AybODkHA7zdnSUAAGp6lrIMb9htjaLgza19LOWMqCuMbp40jWy15Y7u8U5dsKo=&amp;c=kdA6J3NJaBuS4p5-tDtfioPZKITViP21ekvIaiZrlPEWgTl3jkq64Q==&amp;ch=bnzg4NbJE_x9ZubVmcjSM3vTOdu2PuLIfDmQD5oJp_ALp8HgJT6mpg==" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(40, 79, 161);"><strong>here</strong></a><span style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);">&nbsp;to go to our website and create an account.</span></li><li><span style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);">Call (203) 916-9339 to speak to one of our customer service representatives.</span></li></ul><p><strong style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);">How much does a trip cost and how much do I pay?</strong></p><p><span style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);">Each trip costs an affordable price of&nbsp;$3 per passenger&nbsp;and children under 2 years of age ride for free. You may by loading a credit or debit card into the app or website, providing one of our customer service reps with your credit or debit card information, or using exact cash in the vehicle.</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);">Please note we will not be able to give change for cash payments. We appreciate your understanding!</span></p><p><strong style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);">I’m going to an important doctor’s appointment.&nbsp;Can someone help me get into the vehicle?</strong></p><p><span style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);">All drivers are trained and vetted by M7, a local company that specializes in Non-Emergency Medical Transportation. M7 is the only&nbsp;</span><strong style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);">NEMTAC</strong><span style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);">&nbsp;accredited company in Connecticut – all drivers are trained to assist passengers when necessary.</span></p><p><strong style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);">How do I know when a driver will pick me up?</strong></p><p><span style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);">Ride bookings specify a 10-minute time window for pick up. We advise that you are ready to board or take your trip at the beginning of your pick-up time window. You will receive an updated estimated time of arrival as your ride approaches and a notification when your ride has reached the pick-up location.</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);">Updates are sent via SMS and the Ride Gwinnett app. You also have the option to use the app to track your vehicle’s location in real time as it comes to pick you up.</span></p><p><strong style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);">How long will the driver wait for me?</strong></p><p><span style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);">As a courtesy to your co-riders, the driver may only wait up to two minutes for you to reach the pick-up location. To stay on schedule, the vehicle will depart if you do not show up within the two-minute waiting period.</span></p><p><strong style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);">Can I change my pick-up location or destination?</strong></p><p><span style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);">No, but you can cancel your ride and book a new ride with your new pick-up or drop-off location.</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);">Questions? Contact </span><span style="color: rgb(1, 0, 0);">Julie Nash, Director of Economic &amp; Community Development, City of Milford at </span><strong style="color: rgb(1, 0, 0);">jnash@</strong><a href="milfordct.gov" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(1, 0, 0);"><strong>milfordct.gov</strong></a></p>

<h2 class="ql-align-center">New England’s favorite Sand Sculpture Competition at beautiful Walnut Beach!</h2><p class="ql-align-center">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;All ages and skill levels are welcome. Visit the Walnut Beach business district with summer favorites like Scoot &amp; Paddle, Walnut Beach Creamery, Walnut Beach Coffee House, and the home of the MAC’s Firehouse Gallery.&nbsp;<a href="https://milfordarts.us1.list-manage.com/track/click?u=1217e759f2796dc6c437ec693&amp;id=6abb4300a6&amp;e=eeb328755e" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 108, 115);">The Audubon Center</a>&nbsp;is an easy drive or bike ride away! Hosted by Milford Arts Council this event has been a tradition for 45 years, drawing people from up and down the East Coast, and a destination event for vacationing families! Rain or shine (*but check the website if storms are predicted!) Create anything from lobsters to mermaids to astronauts. Be as creative as you’d like.</p><p class="ql-align-center">LOCATION/DATE/TIMES</p><p class="ql-align-center">Date: Saturday, July 13th, 2024</p><p class="ql-align-center">Location:&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Walnut Beach</p><p class="ql-align-center">Registration:&nbsp;8:15 AM</p><p class="ql-align-center">Judging:&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;12:30 PM</p><p class="ql-align-center">Awards:&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;1:00 PM</p><p class="ql-align-center">Learn more: <a href="https://milfordarts.org/sand-sculpture-2024" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://milfordarts.org/sand-sculpture-2024</a></p><p><br></p>