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<p>Town Hall is an official polling place during the period of early voting ( NOW – November 5).</p><p>No garment or campaign accoutrements bearing the name of a Candidate may be worn in the building during this time. </p><p><strong>Election Day is Tuesday, Nov. 5, 2024.</strong> The polls in Connecticut will be open from 6:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.</p><p>New Canaan voters will cast ballots for U.S. President and Vice President, U.S. Senator, U.S. Representative, State Senator, State Representative, and Registrar of Voters. Additionally, there is a question on the ballot about a proposed Amendment to the State Constitution to address expanding the use of Absentee Voting in Connecticut.</p><p>Click here for <a href="https://www.newcanaan.info/Departments/Town%20Clerk/District%201%20Sample%20Ballot.pdf" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 123, 255);"><strong>Sample Ballot</strong></a> (newcanaan.info/government/town_clerk). For information about the Ballot Question click <a href="https://www.newcanaan.info/Departments/Town%20Clerk/Ballot%20Question%20regarding%20Absentee%20Voting.pdf" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 123, 255);"><strong>here</strong></a>.</p><p><strong>ABSENTEE BALLOTS</strong> are available at the Town Clerk’s office as of Oct. 4.</p><p>Click here for <a href="https://oabr-sots.ct.gov/OABR/absenteeBallotReqPortalHome.do" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 123, 255);"><strong>Online Absentee Ballot Application</strong></a><strong><u> </u></strong>(<a href="https://oabr-sots.ct.gov/OABR/absenteeBallotReqPortalHome.do" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 123, 255);">oabr-sots.ct.gov/OABR/absenteeBallotReqPortalHome.do</a>)</p><p>For any questions about Absentee Ballots click <a href="https://www.newcanaan.info/government/boards_councils___elected_officials/town_clerk/absentee_ballot_information.php" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 123, 255);"><strong>here</strong></a> (newcanaan.info/government/town_clerk) or call 203-594-3070.</p><p><strong>EARLY VOTING</strong></p><p>Early Voting allows for in-person voting at New Canaan Town Hall from October 21 through November 3. The Early Voting hours are 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., except for October 29 and 31 when the hours are 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. For more information about Early Voting, click <a href="https://portal.ct.gov/sots/election-services/early-voting/early-voting" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 123, 255);"><strong>here</strong></a>.</p><p><strong>VOTER REGISTRATION DEADLINES</strong></p><p><strong> Friday October 18 – For Voting on Election Day</strong></p><ul><li>Deadline for voter registration by mail; must be postmarked.</li><li>Deadline for voter registration at the Department of Motor Vehicles, at the close of business.</li><li>Deadline for voter registration online, by 11:59 p.m. To register online, click <a href="https://voterregistration.ct.gov/OLVR/welcome.do" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 123, 255);"><strong>here</strong></a>.</li><li>Deadline for voter registration in-person, 8:00 p.m.</li></ul><p><strong>SAME DAY REGISTRATION</strong> is available for those who missed an earlier deadline and wish to register on the same day that they vote. You may register in person and cast your ballot on the same day at Town Hall during the Early Voting period or on Election Day November 5.</p><p>Hours for Same Day Registration during the Early Voting period are 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., except for October 29 and 31 when the hours are 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.</p><p><strong>Monday November 4</strong></p><p>For residents whose qualification by age, citizenship, residence, or returning military was attained after October 19, there will be a limited voter registration session on Nov. 4 from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at Town Hall.</p><p><strong>For any questions about voter registration</strong>, click <a href="https://www.newcanaan.info/departments/registrars_of_voters/index.php" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 123, 255);"><strong>here</strong></a> (newcanaan.info/departments/registrars_of_voters or call 203-594-3060 or 594-3096.</p><p><strong>WHERE TO VOTE</strong></p><p>Those who are already registered to vote may confirm their registration and polling place by clicking <a href="https://portaldir.ct.gov/sots/LookUp.aspx" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 123, 255);"><strong>here</strong></a>. Click here for <a href="https://www.newcanaan.info/Departments/Registrar%20of%20Voters/Voting%20District%20Map.pdf" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 123, 255);"><strong>New Canaan Voter District Map</strong></a><strong>.</strong></p>
<p>New Canaan Department of Public Works is readying plans to begin the annual leaf collection program in the 1-acre and smaller zoned properties. </p><p><strong>Beginning Monday, November 4th,</strong> the Town of New Canaan Public Works will pick up leaves that have been raked to the curbside by homeowners, in areas of one-acre zoning or smaller, that are placed in a <strong>windrow, not a pile</strong>. The leaves will be recycled into garden compost, so they must be free of brush and debris and not be in plastic bags. These items are prohibited and will also clog the vacuums and hoses causing breakdowns and delays.</p><p><strong>Leaves may be raked to the curbside until <u>Sunday, December 1st</u>. Leaves put out after that date <u>will not</u> be collected by the Town.</strong></p><p>Residents in the 2- or 4-acre zones of town are requested to compost their leaves on their own property. DPW crews <strong><u>WILL NOT</u></strong> collect in those areas.</p><p>Residents, and yard maintenance contractors who are picking up leaves from New Canaan properties, may deposit leaves at the Town’s Composting Area located on Lapham Road near the entrance to Waveny Park.</p><p><strong>Contractors must have a proper permission form signed by the New Canaan property owner.</strong> The forms are available at the Town Highway Department at 139 Lakeview Avenue or online at: <a href="https://www.newcanaan.info/departments/public_works/highway_department.php" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 123, 255); background-color: transparent;">https://www.newcanaan.info/departments/public_works/highway_department.php</a></p><p>The composting site is open Monday through Saturday from 8:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. through Saturday, December 14th.</p><p>Composted material is usually made available to local residents the following spring to enrich the soil in their gardens.</p><p>If residents have any concerns or questions, please do not hesitate to contact the Department of Public Works at (203) 594-3054 <a href="mailto:Tiger.Mann@newcanaanct.gov" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 123, 255); background-color: transparent;">Tiger.Mann@newcanaanct.gov</a></p><p> </p>
<p><strong style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Oh, What a Night! A.C.T. of CT Kicks Off 7th Season with Electrifying "Jersey Boys"</strong></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">It bears repeating—oh, what a night! A.C.T. of CT has officially opened its 7th season with a bang, launching JERSEY BOYS, the thrilling story of Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons. This production pulls back the curtain to reveal the heart, grit, and determination of four blue-collar boys from Belleville, NJ, who took the music world by storm. With street smarts and an unstoppable love for music, they navigated personal struggles and fame, proving that some friendships really are thicker than blood.</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Seeing Jersey Boys live in the theater is an experience like no other. The energy is electric, with each song, dance, and moment feeling vibrant and personal. You’re not just watching a story unfold—you’re part of the atmosphere, where the music of Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons pulses through the crowd, making you want to clap, sing along, and lose yourself in the performance. It’s a thrilling, dynamic experience that no TV screen or movie theater can match. For a night out, there’s nothing more captivating than being in the audience as the cast brings this iconic story to life.</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Jersey Boys isn’t just about the music; it’s a tribute to the unbreakable bond of friendship that fueled the rise of Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons. With hits like “Sherry,” “Big Girls Don’t Cry,” and “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You,” the show takes audiences on an exhilarating journey through their struggles, successes, and enduring brotherhood. It all begins on a street corner in Belleville, New Jersey, in the early 1950s, where their harmonies first united and set the stage for their incredible rise to stardom.</span></p><p><strong style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Meet the Four Seasons</strong></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">The A+ casting in this production shines through with every note and every scene. Gian Raffaele DiCostanzo, as Frankie Valli, is nothing short of stellar. His powerful, high-register falsetto captures the unmistakable sound of Valli, effortlessly transporting audiences back to the 1960s. DiCostanzo not only looks and moves like the legendary singer but delivers each iconic hit with the passion and precision that made Valli a music icon.</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Alongside DiCostanzo, Christian Engelhardt plays Bob Gaudio, Matthew Stoke takes on Tommy DeVito, and Anthony Cangiamila embodies Nick Massi. Together, their harmonies are pitch-perfect, giving audiences a front-row seat to the magic of the Four Seasons’ sound.</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Stoke—just WOW! As the driving force behind the band, Matthew Stoke masterfully portrays Tommy DeVito, balancing the street-smart, tough-talking delinquent with a charismatic, talented musician. His performance captures Tommy’s raw, gritty edge while showcasing his undeniable musical prowess, making it no easy feat to bring such a complex character to life.</span></p><p><strong style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Director and Choreographer Bring Fresh Energy</strong></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Under the expert direction of Christopher D. Betts, this rendition of JERSEY BOYS offers a fresh take on the beloved musical while staying true to its roots. Betts incorporates innovative staging techniques, including the use of a turntable in place of the traditional bridge, which allows for smooth transitions across the show’s impressive 75 different locations. One standout feature of </span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">A.C.T. of CT's JERSEY BOYS is the seamless integration of background projections that transport the cast to iconic locations—from a nostalgic '60s diner and a bustling New York City street corner to a sold-out theater. These projections enhance the 75 scene transitions, offering moments where the cast performs live while original footage, such as the Four Seasons on </span><em style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">The Ed Sullivan Show,</em><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;"> plays in the background. This innovative approach adds a layer of authenticity to the storytelling, fully immersing the audience in the era and bringing the music to life in a fresh, captivating way. </span><strong style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;"><em>Bravo</em></strong><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">, to the Artistic Director, Daniel C. Levine!</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Emily Franch’s choreography is another standout element, as she masterfully combines period-specific dance moves with the natural talent of the cast. Her attention to detail transports audiences to the era of doo-wop, leather jackets, and street corner harmonies, evoking the essence of the 1960s in every movement.</span></p><p><strong style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Authentic Storytelling and Iconic Music</strong></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Artistic Director Daniel C. Levine emphasizes that this production’s magic lies not only in the music but also in the authenticity of the storytelling. The production team worked tirelessly to capture the tight harmonies and distinct vocals that made Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons famous. In this intimate theater setting, A.C.T. of CT’s JERSEY BOYS invites audiences to experience the group’s rise to stardom in a way that feels personal and deeply emotional.</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Winner of the 2006 Tony Award for Best Musical, JERSEY BOYS is a timeless story about loyalty, friendship, and the unstoppable power of music. As they navigate their way through the highs and lows of fame, these four boys from Jersey prove that no matter how far you rise, you never forget where you came from—and a handshake still means something.</span></p><p><strong style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Extended Run Due to Overwhelming Demand</strong></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Due to overwhelming demand, A.C.T. of CT has extended the run of JERSEY BOYS through November 17, with an additional performance on Wednesday, November 6, at 7:00 p.m. The show has been selling out faster than Frankie Valli can hit that iconic high note in “Sherry,” so don’t miss your chance to be part of this unforgettable theatrical experience.</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Get ready to be swept away by the sounds, the story, and the energy of JERSEY BOYS, only at A.C.T. of Connecticut. Secure your tickets now before they’re gone!</span></p><p><strong style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Tickets:</strong><a href="https://www.actofct.org/jersey-boys" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204); background-color: transparent;"><strong> Jersey Boys at A.C.T. of CT</strong></a></p>
<p>There's still time for students (any age/grade, including college) to pre-register and submit art!</p><p>Stand Together Against Racism (S.T.A.R), in partnership with The Glass House and the Carriage Barn Arts Center, is hosting its third annual "Through Your Looking Glass" student art showcase. This event celebrates how art, design, and architecture can promote social justice, inclusion, equity, and diversity.</p><p>Students of all ages from Fairfield County, CT, including college students, are invited to submit art that reflects a social justice topic that's important to them. (Check out the S.T.A.R website to see what other students have submitted.) We welcome all forms of art, such as paintings, drawings, photography, mixed media, sculpture, videos (including TikTok-style), or architectural designs. Students must write a short description of what their art means to them. This description will be shown next to their art at the showcase gallery. <a href="https://forms.gle/YY5bAhcdfGrH7GYP6" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 93, 143);">Pre-register now</a> so we know you plan to submit art!!</p><p>This showcase is not a competition—all student artwork will be displayed at the Carriage Barn Arts Center in New Canaan starting with an opening reception on Saturday, November 16. All artists, with their families and friends should plan to attend. The showcase will remain up until 11/24.</p>
<p><strong>Chat and Chop with NBC’s Al Roker and Courtney Roker Laga at New Canaan Library on Sunday, November 3 at 2 pm</strong></p><p>Click <a href="https://www.newcanaanlibrary.org/event/hold-al-roker-92302" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(70, 120, 134);">here</a> for ticket sales and more information.</p><p>New Canaan Library presents another exciting Chat and Chop culinary education experience! Emmy-award winner and co-anchor of NBC’s <em>Today</em>, Al Roker, and his daughter, Courtney Roker Laga, will share their passion for food, family, and fun on Sunday, November 3rd in the Library’s Kend Kitchen.</p><p>Whether a seasoned cook or just looking for some kitchen inspiration, everyone will witness Al and Courtney’s dynamic cooking techniques, learn handy tips and tricks, and discover the stories behind beloved recipes. </p><p>Tickets are $75 and include a live cooking demonstration by Al and Courtney, plus a sample of their favorite recipe. Attendees will also receive a copy of their new cookbook <em>Recipes to Live By</em> which Al and Courtney will be happy to sign. </p><p> </p><p> </p>
<p><strong>Time 100 Honoree and Author Saad Mohseni to Deliver the Library’s William Attwood Lecture on Friday, November 1 at 7 pm in the Library’s Jim & Dede Bartlett Auditorium</strong></p><p> Link for registration: <a href="https://www.newcanaanlibrary.org/mohseni" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(70, 120, 134);">https://www.newcanaanlibrary.org/mohseni</a></p><p>Saad Mohseni, author of <em>Radio Free</em> <em>Afghanistan: A Twenty-Year Odyssey for an Independent Voice in Kabul</em> and the Chairman and CEO of Moby Group, Afghanistan’s largest media company, is guest lecturer for New Canaan Library’s William Attwood Lecture. Please register to attend; Elm Street Books will be on site with copies available for purchase.</p><p>Saad Mohseni will speak about his book <em>Radio Free Afghanistan, a</em> deeply moving and surprising story of the attempt to build a truly independent media company in contemporary Afghanistan. He will be interviewed by Tom Freston, former CEO of Viacom and a founding member of MTV Networks.</p><p>The William Attwood Lecture Series presents distinguished speakers from the global fields of journalism, politics, government, and literature to the community. The Series honors longtime New Canaan resident, journalist, and author William Attwood, who during his professional career was a presidential speechwriter for John F. Kennedy and ambassador to Guinea and Kenya.</p>
<p><strong>Blossom Hill Hosts Holiday Bazaar Fundraiser</strong></p><p><strong>New Canaan, CT</strong> – Blossom Hill will hold its second Holiday Bazaar on <strong>Thursday, November 21, 2024</strong>, from <strong>5:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.</strong> at the <strong>Carriage Barn Arts Center</strong> in New Canaan. This family-friendly event will feature gift shopping, festive treats, cocktails, and live music, all in support of Blossom Hill's mission to provide education for peace to displaced and at-risk children and youth globally.</p><p>"Blossom Hill's impact continues to grow, with 14 critical education programs now serving vulnerable children in six countries, from Afghanistan to Syria, including our efforts here in Connecticut," said Blossom Hill Founder and CEO, Shiva Sarram. "Our initiatives span from early childhood development to vocational training, each designed to empower and transform young lives in underserved communities. In response to recent events, we've expanded our reach to support children affected by conflicts in regions like Gaza and Israel. These programs are often the first of their kind, offering education, stability, and hope to children in crisis, wherever they may be."</p><p><strong>What:</strong> Blossom Hill Holiday Bazaar</p><p><strong>When:</strong> Thursday, November 21, 2024, 5:30 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.</p><p><strong>Where:</strong> Carriage Barn Arts Center, 681 South Ave, New Canaan, CT</p><p><strong>Tickets:</strong> <a href="https://blossomhill-foundation.org/bazaar/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Purchase here</a></p><p>Join the Blossom Hill family for a festive evening of community, music, and a shared commitment to empowering children and youth to build a more just world.</p><p><br></p>