<p>Join us on the green for a glorious evening of dance on Tuesday, July 30 from 6:30 to 8:30 pm.</p><p>Now in its fifth year, the Ted Thomas Dance Foundation and East Coast&nbsp;Contemporary Ballet are coming to the library as a part of a series of free outdoor dance performances&nbsp;throughout Fairfield County to enable greater access to the arts and arts education.&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Please bring your own chairs, blankets and food.</strong></p><p>Guest dance companies include, Alison Cook Beatty Dance, Garet &amp; Company, Lydia Johnson Dance Company, Neville Dance Company, Thomas/Ortiz Dance and East Coast Contemporary Ballet.&nbsp;</p><p>In addition, campers ages 7-9 from The Carver Foundation Community Center Norwalk CT, an organization whose mission is to close opportunity gaps for all children and to ensure they graduate high school on time and are ready for college and careers, to take stage and perform outdoors where it is safe for this vulnerable age group to participate.</p><p>Register <a href="https://www.newcanaanlibrary.org/event/hold-fairfield-dance-festival-76224" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here</a>.</p>

<h2 class="ql-align-justify">Fairfield County Bank Holds 153rd Annual Meeting and Elects New Corporators<strong> </strong></h2><p class="ql-align-justify">Fairfield County Bank held its 153rd Annual Meeting at the Silver Spring County Club. The Annual Meeting is held to inform the Corporators on the financial well-being of the Bank, success and growth over the past year, and strategic plans of the coming year. The attendees included the Board of Directors, the Board of Incorporators, and the Senior Management of the Bank. </p><p class="ql-align-justify">Ralph L. DePanfilis, Chairman of the Board, welcomed the attendees to the meeting and led the vote to elect two new Corporators, Scott Hobbs of New Canaan and John Mitchell of Ridgefield. Scott is the president and owner of Hobbs, Incorporated, who specializes in high-end custom luxury home building. A lifelong New Canaanite, Scott continues to reside there with his wife and children and is deeply involved in the community. John is the founder and executive partner of Radius Media Group, LLC, which focuses on creating audience development programs for premier marketers. He currently resides in Ridgefield with his family.</p><p class="ql-align-justify">David A. Schneider, CEO, and Daniel L. Berta, President, presented on the financials of the Bank, the product and service offering, innovation across the organization, and community engagement. Presentation highlights included a review of the strong financial position of the Bank in relation to current economic strains on the industry from Mr. Schneider. They also took this time to introduce Amy Raymond, Senior Vice President of Retail Lending at Fairfield County Bank. Amy joined the Bank in 2024 and has been introducing new loan offerings such as a first-time homebuyers and jumbo loan program with her team.</p><p class="ql-align-justify">Mr. Berta spoke on a variety of topics, including the Bank’s commitment to the Fairfield County community. In addition to over $740,000 in corporate contributions, Fairfield County Bank employees donated over 4,500 hours of volunteer service spread across nearly 300 different organizations. Mr. Berta then went on to highlight the array of digital solutions that Fairfield County Bank offers. These solutions ensure that clients can securely bank local wherever they are, while client contact and personal relationships remain at the forefront of the Bank’s ethos.&nbsp;</p><p class="ql-align-justify"><em style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Pictured from left to right: David Schneider, CEO, Fairfield County Bank. Scott Hobbs, President, Hobbs, Inc. Ralph&nbsp;DePanfilis, Chairman of the Board, Fairfield County Bank. John Mitchell, Founder, Radius Media Group. Daniel Berta, President, Fairfield County Bank.</em><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">&nbsp;</span></p><p><br></p>

<p>This August, New Canaan Library is offering a diverse array of classes and workshops designed for adults of all ages and interests. From crafting to poetry, there’s something for everyone. Here’s a glimpse of what’s on the schedule:</p><p><strong>Knit &amp; Crochet Meetup on the Green</strong> On Tuesday, August 6, at 10:00 a.m., gather your knitting or crochet project and join fellow crafters on the Merrill Event Lawn. This is a multigenerational event for ages 10 and up. Bring a blanket or chair, as seating will be limited.</p><p><strong>Cut the Cord to Cable</strong> If you're tired of rising cable bills, this workshop on Tuesday, August 6, at 12:00 p.m. in the Community Room is for you. Discover alternatives to cable and learn how to use your New Canaan Library card to stream free films, series, and documentaries through Kanopy.</p><p><strong>Poetry on the Green</strong> On Wednesday, August 7, at 1:00 p.m., join an informal read-aloud session on the Anderson Terrace. Share short poems, either your own or from a favorite published poet, and connect with others through the power of poetry.</p><p><strong>Adult Diamond Painting: Landscape Coasters</strong> Create a blinged-out coaster with Reference Librarian Kassidy on Friday, August 9, at 10:30 a.m. in the Anderson MakerLab. Diamond painting, similar to paint by numbers but with small gemstones, will be the focus of this fun and creative session.</p><p><strong>Cricut Crafts for Adults: First Timers</strong> On Monday, August 12, at 2:00 p.m., learn to use the Cricut Maker in an introductory class with Kassidy. Create a personalized bookmark and explore the capabilities of this versatile machine. This session is designed for beginners.</p><p><strong>Arts at the Library: 2 Session Color Theory Workshop for Adults</strong> Dive into the properties of color in this two-session workshop on Tuesday, August 13, and Tuesday, August 20, at 6:00 p.m. in the Arlene H. Grushkin Children's Program Room. The workshop includes a visual presentation and hands-on activities exploring color analysis, optical mixing, and color symbolism.</p><p><strong>Introduction to Google Docs</strong> On Wednesday, August 21, at 6:00 p.m., learn how to use Google Docs to create, edit, and store documents in the Craig B. Tate Room. This class will cover the basics of this free, web-based word processor and show how to access your documents from any internet-connected computer.</p><p>To register and learn more, visit <a href="https://www.newcanaanlibrary.org/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">New Canaan Library</a>. Don't miss out on these fantastic opportunities to learn, create, and connect this August!</p>

<p class="ql-align-center"><strong style="color: rgb(24, 25, 26);">FC BUZZ Weekend July 26-28</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/moca-some-noise---open-mic-night" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong>MOCA SOME NOISE OPEN MIC NIGHT</strong></a></p><p><strong>Moca CT</strong></p><p>Friday Jul 26, 6:30 pm - 8:30 pm</p><p>Join Moca Ct for an Open Mic night featuring acoustic music, poetry, and slam poetry! Everyone is invited to participate and attend.</p><p><a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/events/ftc-presents-mystic-bowie-s-talking-dreads" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong>MYSTIC BOWIE'S TALKING DREADS</strong></a></p><p><strong>Fairfield Theatre Company</strong></p><p>Friday Jul 26, 8:00 pm - 10:30 pm</p><p>These guys are so much more than a reggae-tribute of the Talking Heads’ top hits. Picture that famously funky frequency, picked up on the sun-bathed beaches of Jamaica and put through a Caribbean kaleidoscope. Fronted by Connecticut's own, Mystic Bowie, Talking Dreads will be Burning Down The House. As a former member of the Tom Tom Club, a band that includes Talking Heads founders Chris Frantz and Tina Weymouth, Mystic Bowie infuses fresh life into Talking Heads' classic catalog with his high octane mix of roots reggae, ska and rock. "Talking Dreads cover Talking Heads songs as shimmering one-drop reggae jewels. Tom Tom Club vet Mystic Bowie covers Talking Heads songs by swapping out urbanity for roots and sincerity.” – Salon</p><p><a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/events/fairfield-museum-summer-camps-614e7" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong>SUMMER CAMPS</strong></a></p><p><strong>Fairfield Museum</strong></p><p>Friday Jul 26, 9:00 am - 3:00 pm</p><p>These unforgettable summer camps are designed for kids ages 7-12 and bring history to life through art-making, gallery exploration, outdoor play on the Museum Commons, and many more hands-on activities. Each week features a different theme inspired by the Museum’s rich collections and exhibitions. Whether your child has an interest in archaeology, history, or the arts, you’ll be sure to find a program that’s right for them. Adventures in Art Camp | July 22-26 Spy Camp | July 29-August 2 Innovation Camp | August 5-9 Archaeology Camp | August 12-16 | SOLD OUT! History Camp | August 19-23</p><p><a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/events/the-greenwich-art-society-is-offering-a-new-workshop-colored-pencil-the-painterly-way" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong>A NEW WORKSHOP!! COLORED PENCIL: THE PAINTERLY WAY</strong></a></p><p><strong>Greenwich Art Society</strong></p><p>Saturday Jul 27, 10:00 am - 3:30 pm</p><p>You read correctly! Learn how to approach color pencil in a way that resembles pastel painting with the aim of finishing a drawing using color pencils within a short period of time. Color pencil may possibly be one of the most misunderstood mediums often treated in a slow and tedious manner. But what if we could use it as a brush in a painterly way? Participants would be introduced to a quick layering system derived from the way pastelists use hard and soft pastels for sketching on toned surfaces. If you love color pencils this crash course will help you discover other ways to express your artwork through this fun medium.</p><p><a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/events/cody-wolfe-live-bijou-theatre-bridgeport-connecticut" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong>CODY WOLFE LIVE</strong></a></p><p><strong>The Bijou Theatre</strong></p><p>Saturday Jul 27, 7:00 pm - 10:00 pm</p><p>Get ready to Bring Country Back with Nashville Recording Artist and Trend Setting Country Singer/Songwriter Cody Wolfe. From his breakup hit "Better Without You" to fan favorite "Don't Blame Your Drunk On Me" and songs from his new album "Bringin Country Back" be prepared for a full band, live show full of original music that you'll be singing along with from the very first note. ​</p><p><a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/events/weston-what-lies-beneath-exhibit-3d8b5" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong>WESTON...WHAT LIES BENEATH EXHIBIT</strong></a></p><p><strong>Weston History &amp; Culture Center</strong></p><p>Sunday Jul 28, 1:00 pm - 4:00 pm</p><p>The yard of one of Weston’s oldest homes, the Peter Thorp House, reveals its past lives. Through objects, rare photographs, videos, and hands-on activities, discover what lies beneath and who lived above. Kids can dig for artifacts in the exhibit's fun Kids Corner.</p><p><a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/events/summer-concert-series-paul-gabriel" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong>SUMMER CONCERT SERIES WITH PAUL GABRIEL</strong></a></p><p><strong>Bartlett Arboretum &amp; Gardens</strong></p><p>Sunday Jul 28, 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm</p><p>Paul Gabriel is a Blues Music Award nominee, Lifetime Achievement Award recipient, Blues Hall of Fame inductee, and New England Music Hall of Fame inductee.</p><p><a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/events/parker-s-tangent-concert-at-music-at-the-barn" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong>PARKER'S TANGENT CONCERT </strong></a></p><p><strong>MUSIC AT THE BARN</strong></p><p>Sunday Jul 28, 5:30 pm - 7:00 pm</p><p>Parker’s Tangent is an established rock band based out of New Haven, CT. They play all original rock music based on blues and roots sources. Their wonderful female lead singer has been compared to Grace Slick and Nora Jones. The band is rounded out by drums, percussion, lead and rhythm guitars, bass and violin. Their music ranges from poetic, quiet and touching, to bluesy and rocking! Parker’s Tangent has performed together for over 19 years and has performed at Toads' Place, the main stage of the New Haven Green, The International Festival of Arts and Ideas, Westport’s Blues, Views and Bar-B-Que Festival, the Phoenix, Long Wharf Theater and many more.</p><p><a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/events/artisan-marketplace-summer-series-4e573" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong>ARTISAN MARKETPLACE SUMMER SERIES</strong></a></p><p><strong>MoCA CT</strong></p><p>Sunday Jul 28, 12:00 pm - 4:00 pm</p><p>This year’s Artisan Marketplace will be held outdoors, providing a beautiful and spacious setting for visitors to explore a wide variety of unique, handcrafted items. From jewelry and pottery to textiles and artwork, there will be something for everyone to enjoy and appreciate. The galleries inside will also be open to enjoy our latest exhibition. The Artisan Marketplace Summer Series is a perfect opportunity for families and friends to spend a leisurely afternoon supporting and discovering the talent and creativity of local artisans. We continue to accept vendor applications – click here to apply!</p><p>See these and discover hundreds more events on the <a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">FCBUZZ EVENTS</a> page at <a href="https://culturalalliancefc.org" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://culturalalliancefc.org</a> Sign up for the <a href="https://culturalalliancefc.org/resources/newsletter-sign-up/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Cultural Alliance eBuzz</a> to receive top picks and spotlights each week in your inbox.</p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><br></p>

<p>Summer Theater of New Canaan presents <em>Adventures of Robin Hood</em> on Saturday, August 3rd at 2 PM (updated time) for one performance only! This captivating show, with a running time of 55 minutes, is designed for ages 5-12, though all ages are welcome to attend.</p><p>Get ready for an imaginative twist on Robin Hood like never before! Two actors take the stage telling this classic tale with sporting equipment straight from the school gym – hockey sticks, jump ropes, basketballs, and more – performing with exuberance, athleticism, and heart.</p><p>See heroes and villains, sword fights and surprises, love and loss. Robin Hood will have each child (and adult) on the edge of their seat!</p><p>The performance will take place at 11 Farm Rd, New Canaan, CT, in an indoor, air-conditioned, and accessible venue with convenient free parking. Don't miss this exciting opportunity to experience the classic tale of Robin Hood live on stage!</p><p><a href="https://stonc.org/robin-hood/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(35, 63, 146);"><strong>TICKETS</strong></a></p>

<p class="ql-align-center"><strong>Upcoming Programs</strong></p><p><strong>Fairfield County Dance Festival on the Green</strong></p><p><strong>Tuesday, 7/30</strong></p><p><strong>6:30pm - 8:30pm</strong></p><p><strong>Merrill Event Lawn</strong></p><p><a href="https://ohvwq5bab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001gcliQ-ZIrFoka_JZNnm8xSaARy-58_cbcNVBXyRAbNEI8Sk33v-qSOS1lz-fgwIFQBi9duLDcA3BesnKelWdH6wJJTJXA61XEJ2Nqi2NcxdQIOZwFj_hxOmEnXsHDVkKbh_EMBD1DhqBToa0xIYSie4G0uM-R4hXP92kQDQCdlIa3ih0HjmDvZ9GlBirBNLn1PPIC9e-kD181E5RzN-TMUO63plDjP8F&amp;c=RQN8ijWr2vYd7CKxPniAWNN-VwWLGW7scPIgZw6GL746sf3onvjvbQ==&amp;ch=4qJpID0pxrBsiM_yw4gxeasOUhuYqWpgA2QtDznHNR7vPnn-S3PjeA==" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(108, 153, 203);"><strong>REGISTER</strong></a></p><p><span style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51);">Join us on the green for a glorious evening of dance.&nbsp;Now in its fifth year, the Ted Thomas Dance Foundation and East Coast&nbsp;Contemporary Ballet&nbsp;</span><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">present a series of free, outdoor performances to provide greater access to the arts and arts education. Please bring your own chairs, blankets and refreshments.</span></p><p><strong>Broadway Cabaret with Gil Harel &amp; the CT State Naugatuck Valley Troupe</strong></p><p><strong>Thursday, 8/1</strong></p><p><strong>7:00pm - 8:00pm</strong></p><p><strong>Jim &amp; Dede Bartlett Auditorium</strong></p><p><a href="https://ohvwq5bab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001gcliQ-ZIrFoka_JZNnm8xSaARy-58_cbcNVBXyRAbNEI8Sk33v-qSEcN1XPdFOsz7cq_vnsCNlEVpk_fGbxOlvGiZeoMhi2Ilwv9vhbTyrQEvaBZr_vT2tGVSolkQsOmwETfskwa202XC2IjfgjEIM2V0-B6bUC-7cr9zVf0710gB2l2_xoSAfC7HB8ITDE4D0yYygV7XoUCagNDNw6WJQ==&amp;c=RQN8ijWr2vYd7CKxPniAWNN-VwWLGW7scPIgZw6GL746sf3onvjvbQ==&amp;ch=4qJpID0pxrBsiM_yw4gxeasOUhuYqWpgA2QtDznHNR7vPnn-S3PjeA==" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(108, 153, 203);"><strong>REGISTER</strong></a></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Students of CT State Naugatuck Valley, u</span><span style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51);">nder the direction of Professor Gil Harel,</span><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">&nbsp;will bring the thrill of Broadway as they share songs and scenes from various beloved musicals.</span></p>