Trumbull professional’s career soars after graduating from NeighborWorks America’s real estate program. 

 Today Kathleen Williams, a member of CT Housing Partners Real Estate Development Team in Trumbull, announced her graduation from NeighborWorks America’s Advancing Leaders in Real Estate Program. Kathleen Williams is one of 18 emerging leaders to graduate with this inaugural class of real estate staff. 

The Advancing Leaders in Real Estate (ALRE) program created with support from JPMorgan Chase is a nine-month program that combines formal training events at NeighborWorks America’s Training Institutes throughout the US, executive one-on-one mentoring, and monthly cohort meetings. The pilot cohort was funded by JP Morgan Chase and included 18 participants from nine states and Washington D.C.

Kathleen said that “the training experience was by far the most well organized, professional coming together of intelligent and experienced real estate executives, managers and consultants in the affordable housing and community development arena.  It was an honor to be selected and to be part of it.”

Every part of the ALRE pilot is managed with tremendous care, from the onboarding, matching of mentors and mentees, meetings with industry experts, and clear communication with supervisors, who were thrilled with the progress made by their staff members. The goodwill engendered will continue as participants commit to staying in touch with each other as they move forward in their careers.

 “Though I have been in commercial real estate development for more than 25 years, the NeighborWorks America/JP Morgan ALRE event provided me with in-depth knowledge of how the affordable housing real estate development sector works.  The combined experiences will fortify my future in affordable housing development which is so desperately needed throughout the US,” said Williams.

Learn more information about the Advancing Leaders in Real Estate Program or call Lindsay Moore at 202-760-4097.  

ABOUT CONNECTICUT HOUSING PARTNERS: Connecticut Housing Partners is a chartered member of NeighborWorks America’s selective national network of organizations, committed to driving and sustaining positive change. Our mission for nearly 35 years has been to strengthen communities by providing housing and services to enhance the quality of life for low- and moderate-income families in Connecticut. We do this by developing, building, preserving, and maintaining high-quality affordable housing. We use a partnership-based and community-led approach to maximize our reach and impact. CHP is committed to creating long lasting systematic change for individuals and families in need and providing sustainable solutions to solve the housing crisis and put an end to homelessness. https://cthousingpartners.org/

NEW HAVEN, CT: Trauma Recovery, EMDR Humanitarian Assistance Programs (Trauma Recovery/HAP) hosts the second annual EMDR Walk in the Park on Sunday, October 1 at 10am in New Haven! The flat, 2-mile walk winds through College Woods and East Rock Park. The event features a post-walk picnic at the College Woods Pavilion with refreshments, food, music, and more! All participants receive a commemorative T-shirt. The event also offers a Virtual Walk Option for those who are unable to attend the October 1^st event in-person.  

All event proceeds will benefit Trauma Recovery/HAP. Walkers are encouraged to fundraise as individuals or teams, engaging their friends, families, and co-workers in raising support for EMDR therapy and mental health. Those who raise $250 or more receive a complimentary yard sign, which will be placed along the walk course on the day of the event.  

The mission of Trauma Recovery/HAP is to increase the capacity for effective treatment of psychological trauma in underserved communities anywhere in the world. Trauma Recovery/HAP works through a network of professional volunteers to offer direct support after natural and man-made disasters and to train clinicians in EMDR therapy in underserved areas. Their continuous efforts have positively impacted the lives of many individuals, enabling them to move forward with their lives and be free of the trauma experienced. Learn more about Trauma Recovery/HAP at emdrhap.org. 

Trauma Recovery/HAP and JB Sports organize the event. JB Sports is an event management company that also coordinates the MJP Wealth Advisors Fairfield Road Races and Faxon Law New Haven Road Races. To register or learn more about the EMDR Walk in the Park, visit jbsports.com or call (203) 481-5933. 

The EMDR Walk in the Park is sponsored by: EMDR Institute, CE-Classes.com, Docuprintnow, L.H. Brenner Insurance, Newport Healthcare, One Purpose Performance Consulting.  Additional sponsors include Antoinette M. Tease, P.L.L.C., bilateralstimulation.io, CIU Travel, Datapay Payroll Services, EMDR Research Foundation, Farnum Realty Group and 99.1 PLR. 

Music for Little Superstars at the Milford Public Library on Wednesday, October 4 at 10:30am ages 0-5

Join us for a highly interactive music and movement program! Children and their caregivers will sing, clap, dance, march and play a variety of musical instruments. This program will promote development in music aptitude, pitch, melody, rhythm, as well as language, imagination, motor skills, cultural awareness, and creative expression. No registration is required. 

The City of Milford is excited to announce that it will be hosting a Boards and Commissions Open House on October 11, 2023. This event is designed to provide Milford residents with a unique opportunity to gain insights into the inner workings of their local government and explore ways to actively participate in shaping the future of their community.

The Boards and Commissions Open House will take place at City Hall on October 11, 2023 from 6:30-8:30pm. Residents of Milford are encouraged to attend this informative event, where they will have the chance to learn more about the various boards and commissions that play a vital role in the city's decision-making process.

Mayor Smith expressed the importance of this event, stating, "This Open House is an exceptional opportunity for our residents to witness the wheels of government in motion. It's not just about observing; it's about becoming an active part of the process. We want to empower our community members to get involved, share their ideas, and contribute to the growth and betterment of Milford."

The event will feature presentations from current board and commission members who will provide insights into their roles, responsibilities, and the impact they have on the community. Attendees will also have the chance to interact with these members and ask questions to better understand the opportunities available for civic engagement.

In an effort to enhance transparency and encourage broader community involvement, residents will also have the option to sign up with their interests and preferences during the event. This will enable them to express their willingness to participate in specific boards or commissions that align with their passions and expertise.

The City of Milford is committed to fostering a more engaged and informed citizenry, and the Boards and Commissions Open House represents a significant step towards achieving this goal. By providing residents with a platform to actively participate in local governance, the city aims to ensure that the voices of its community members are heard and valued.

The program begins at 1:00 rpm and the guest fee is $15. payable in cash or check.  To reserve your table space, please text or call Membership Chair Bunny Elmore by October 8 at 203-848-7459. 

On August 25, 2023, at about noon, a subject entered the Devon Branch of the Milford Bank and showed a note to the bank teller indicating he was armed and would shoot her if she did not comply and give him money.

The teller gave the subject the money and he fled. Surveillance photos of the robber were released on social media and with the public’s help, the robber was identified as Bamm Oh, AKA Paul Bamm Oh. On September 21, 2023, Bamm Oh, 45, with a last known address of 236 Main Street, Torrington, Connecticut, was served with an arrest warrant for this incident and given a $120,000 bond.

He was arraigned at Milford Superior Court.

He was charged with Robbery 1st Degree and Larceny 5th Degree.

Crafters, makers and artists will be showcasing their creations at the upcoming Milford Artisan Market on Saturday and Sunday October 14-15, 2023 from 10am to 4pm on the Green at 168-176 Broad Street in downtown Milford, CT.  Admission is free.

“Leading up to the holidays, it’s a great time to browse all of the unique, handmade products that can be given as gifts,” says event organizer Alison Kosakowski, owner of Artisan Events by Ally.

Over eighty local artisans and makers will be featured at the bi-annual event including those offering jewelry, art, pottery, apparel, wood designs and more. The Market will have two music areas featuring live music from Earth Passenger, Lord of the Cello, Sean O’Reilly and Milford’s own Elana Zabari. Street food will be offered from vendors including Silver Sand Pizza, Side Street Grille Hotdogs and Colossal Kielbasa along with homemade baked treats from various artisan vendors. The event will also feature a spiritual walking path labyrinth used to foster contemplation and meditation.

The event is organized by Artisan Events by Ally. The Milford Artisan Market is a bi-annual community event that is held every October and May on the Milford Green to promote local handcrafted wares and artists. The event is sponsored by Renewal by Andersen and LeafFilter. Learn more at: https://www.facebook.com/milfordartisanmarket

The Friends of the Milford Library "Party in the Stacks!" fundraiser is on Saturday, October 21, from 7pm – 10pm at the Milford Public Library (57 New Haven Avenue). This year's theme, “Where Mystery and Romance Meet", features the romantic mystery genre and includes a wide variety of books, movies and authors. Classics include ‘The Great Gatsby’, ‘Phantom of the Opera’, ‘Murder on the Orient Express’ and ‘The Maltese Falcon’.

The early bird ticket price of $50 is available through September 30. Purchase tickets at http://www.tinyurl.com/FOMLPITS or at the Library Circulation Desk. Starting October 1, ticket prices will be $60.

This adults-only event features delicious, themed appetizers from Christopher Martins Restaurant, a specialty drink and adult beverages from The Crushed Grape, music, dancing, raffle and auction prizes, and a costume contest. Costumes are optional but encouraged.

While enjoying the delicious food and the music, bid on our silent auction prizes or use your raffle tickets for a chance to win. Prizes include an African safari, literary themed gifts, tickets to local theaters and sports, and opportunities to enjoy the delicious food, drink, and experiences that our beautiful area has to offer. You can also bid to hang out with some of Milford's finest, the Firefighters, or even be Mayor for a Day! A preview of some of these prizes is available at http://www.tinyurl.com/FOMLPITS

All ticket and raffle proceeds go to support the Friends of the Milford Library. The Friends fund all your and your children's favorite library programs. For questions email partyinstacks.milfordlib@gmail.com

Award-winning Pantochino Productions, a professional not-for-profit theatre company in Milford will debut it’s new musical “Panto of the Opera” October 13 through 29 at the MAC, Milford Arts Council on Railroad Avenue in Downtown Milford.

“Panto of the Opera” is a new, wildly funny, family-friendly musical panto by Bert Bernardi and Justin Rugg. The show is a hilarious spoof of the Andrew Lloyd Webber musical, the Gaston Leroux novel and the entire ‘Phantom’ phenomenon. Comical twists and turns about and the Phantom, and his unreliable chandelier, taunt Madame Carlotta and the opera staff while dear Christine becomes obsessed with the man behind the mask. Pantochino’s new adaptation promises broad comedy, sight gags, and songs.

“In the tradition of the British Panto, this is a wild, topsy-turvy take on the phantom,” said Bernardi who has written the book and lyrics. “There’a a laugh a minute—sometimes more,” he added. “Panto is what we do best,” said co-producer Jimmy Johansmeyer. “There is something for everyone—both kids and adults will love it.” 

Playing the role of the Phantom is Pantochino’s resident composer and actor, Justin Rugg. Most recently seen as Scrooge in “Christmas Carol,” Rugg attended Lebanon Valley College where he double-majored in music theory/composition and percussion performance. He has been composing and appearing in Pantochino’s original musical productions since 2012 as well as musical directing the Summer Theatre Camp series and the acclaimed Teen Theatre program. On the Pantochino stage he’s been seen as villains, princes, bugs, cookies and Santa Claus! 

The cast also includes company members Johansmeyer, Mary Mannix, Shelley Marsh Poggio, Rachelle Ianniello, Don Poggio and Lu DeJesus. Sydney Maher, Leanne Onofrio and Killian Meehan round our the company. The show also features a special appearance by BroadwayWorld Award Winner Victoria Sautee who’s online series “Let’s Learn Stuff” was called “Hysterical and Remarkable” by the Hartford Courant.

Directed by Bernardi, “Panto of the Opera” features setting by Von Del Mar, costumes by Johansmeyer, lighting by Jakob Kelsey, musical direction direction by Rugg and sound by Tyler Kittleman. Christina Ronquillo is stage manager.

Now in its fourteenth season, Pantochino Productions is widely acclaimed for its innovative, original musical theatre offerings, Summer Theatre Camps, Classes, After School Drama programs and Teen Theatre. The multi Award winning company is recipient of two “Best of Milford” Awards, many Broadway World Connecticut Awards and the Cultural Contribution Award presented by the Milford Regional Chamber of Commerce.

Performances of “Panto of the Opera” are Fridays at 7:30pm, Saturdays at 2 and 5:30pm and Sundays at 2pm. Seating is cabaret-style and audiences are invited to bring their own food and drink to enjoy during the performance. The Milford Arts Council, The MAC is located at 40 Railroad Avenue in Downtown Milford. Parking is free at showtime in all train station lots. Tickets are available online at www.pantochino.com. Note: Tickets are not available at the Milford Arts Council.

The Milford Fire Department will be conducting a Propane Tank Collection Day on Saturday, October 14, 2023, to collect propane cylinders, for example from gas grills. The collection is for Milford Residents only and proof of residency will be required. There is no cost for this collection.

The Collection will take place at 55 Seemans Lane, Milford CT located opposite of Meadowside School. The collection time is from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.

The following shall be adhered to.

*Have proof of residency ready.

*Tanks should be transported in an upright position.

*Preferable driver only transporting the tank or tanks.

*Valve must be in the closed position.

*We will take full, partially full, and empty 20-pound tanks.

*DO NOT vent the tank prior to transporting.

Tanks should be secured in place to prevent accidental tip over. Tanks should be transported with the vehicle windows open. NO SMOKING during the transport of the tank or in the drop off area.
For more information, please call the Fire Marshal’s Division at 203 874 6321 or via email at MilfordFireMarshal@Milfordct.gov.

36^th Anniversary for the BTCC will help benefit these local charities: Bigelow Center for Senior Activities, Sandcastle Playground, Wakeman Boys & Girls Club, YMCA of Fairfield, Mercy Learning Center, Cardinal Shehan Center, Neighborhood Studios of Fairfield County, Center for Family Justice, Connecticut Food Bank, Operation Hope, Burroughs Community Center, Grasmere by Park, Caroline House, Bridgeport Rescue Mission, Janus Center for Youth in Crisis, Norma Pfriem Breast Center, Bridge House, CT Challenge, Taylor YMCA, Camp Hi Rock, Horizon’s at GFA, McGivney Community Center, Pivot Ministries

Time:

Saturday, September 23: Early registration/pick up @ Bigelow Tea from 9 to 12 noon.

Sunday, September 24: Registration Begins 8am, Race Begins 10am

For more information visit here for the RunSignUp website: https://runsignup.com/Race/CT/Southport/BigelowTeaCommunityChallenge

Cost: 5K Run, 3K Walk: $35 | Kid’s Fun Run: $15

HyperFitMD Age Management Center announces the addition of Marko Lujic MD, MPH to the practice in Milford. Dr. Lujic will be joining founding physician Charles Guglin MD, FACS who uses preventative medicine to treat the root cause of health issues, not just the symptoms, to help patients achieve a healthier state, and higher quality of life.

“Dr. Lujic is a well trained and deeply experienced surgeon who is highly regarded in the medical community,” says Guglin. “HyperFitMD Age Management Center is growing exponentially as a medical practice and we’re grateful that Dr. Lujic has come to us at this exciting time of transition.”

Dr. Lujic grew up in North Haven and studied at Yale University, receiving his undergraduate degree in biology. He went to St. George’s Medical School in Grenada and came back to Connecticut for his residency in general surgery at Yale and then practiced as a general surgeon for seven years.

Becoming frustrated with conventional medicine after treating many patients with preventable diseases, Dr. Lujic decided to shift his focus to progressive medicine and preventative care. His skill set in surgery and passion for heath has led to helping people age better and achieve a better quality of life through the art and science of age management. 

“I am honored to be joining Dr. Guglin at HyperFitMD in our quest to provide this community and all others with the opportunity to age with grace,” said Lujic. “I couldn’t be more excited and enthusiastic and I hope to open people’s eyes to their full potential and make that a reality.”

Dr. Lujic has started seeing patients at HyperFit MD Age Management Center’s 88 Noble Avenue location in downtown Milford. To schedule an appointment, call 203.890.9777.

About HyperFitMD Age Management Center

Based in Milford, HyperFitMD Age Management Center treats the root cause of health conditions, not just the symptoms. Our staff provides well-researched and proven methods to restore patients’ vitality, health and wellness to its optimal level. We cater to all of southern Connecticut and the surrounding areas. Find out more at www.hyperfitmd.com or call 203.890.9777.

Bridges Healthcare’s annual Folks on Spokes & Step Forward ride and walk for mental health is scheduled for Sunday, October 1, 2023 at 8:00am at Fowler Field in Milford.

As one of the longest-running cycling events in CT, hundreds of participants will ride or walk in this event to raise funds and awareness for local mental health and addiction recovery services.

Participants can ride any combination of the event’s 5, 10, 20, or 40 mile routes or walk the 5K while enjoying the scenic CT coastline. The event’s agenda includes a Remembrance Ceremony where participants can honor the lives of loved ones lost to addiction, suicide or other mental health related issues. Pre-event registration fees are $50 per cyclist, $35 per walker, and $15 for kids under 18 - which include a free t-shirt. Children 5 and under are free. Day-of fees are $55 per cyclist and $45 per walker.

Proceeds from the event support Bridges’ local mental health and addiction recovery support programs including children’s outpatient and school-based therapy as well as adult group and outpatient therapy for mental health and addiction recovery issues.

“I ride in Folks on Spokes to help sustain the lifesaving work that Bridges offers to our communities,” says cyclist Glenn Laudenslager. “The team at Bridges is present in our communities and meets people where they are to take care of them, whether someone needs mental health treatment, care for physical health issues, or support for their recovery journey. This ride is our chance as citizens and neighbors to do our part. I know the funds we raise are put to good use taking care of people who need it the most.”

According to event walker and Milford resident Jamie Rude, “I walk in the Folks on Spokes and Step Forward event in loving memory of my nephew David who was lost far too young to opioids. As a person in recovery, I also walk because I’m grateful to Bridges Healthcare for their addiction recovery work and the lives they save.”

Participants can ride or walk individually or join as a team. Fundraising is encouraged and free registration is offered to each attendee who commits to raising $100 by September 30, 2023. More than 300 riders, walkers, and volunteers are expected to attend to support Bridges’ community mental health programs and services.

To register, sponsor, volunteer, or learn more, visit folksonspokes.bridgesct.org.

About Bridges Healthcare

Since 1957, Bridges Healthcare's mental health and addiction recovery programs and services have helped adults, children and families move toward healing, recovery, and renewal.

Bridges is the state-designated local mental health authority for Milford, Orange, West Haven and the surrounding communities, offering a comprehensive range of services and programs for children, families, adults and young adults. Bridges’ recovery-focused services support individuals with severe and prolonged mental illness, addiction problems, as well as emotional and behavioral issues. 

For more information about Bridges’ programs and services, visit bridgesct.org.

On July 16, 2023, at about 6:45am, officer responded to a Hawley Avenue residence for a report of an unresponsive male and female. Upon arrival, members of the Milford Fire Department were attempting to resuscitate the female. The female was administered Narcan and transported to an area hospital for treatment. The male died at the scene.

The Milford Police Department Detective Division began an investigation into the death of the male. It was determined that the male died from an overdose of drugs. A suspect was developed and identified as Jesse Gray. Evidence showed that he had provided the narcotics to the victim which later caused his death. An arrest warrant was submitted and issued by Milford Superior Court.

On September 5, 2023, Jesse Gray, 46, of 33 Barn Hill Road, Monroe, was arrested at his residence. He was charged with Illegal Distribution of Narcotics.

Gray was released on a promise to appear and is scheduled to appear in Milford Superior Court on October 3, 2023.