Newtown's HamletHub https://news.hamlethub.com/newtown Sun, 26 Mar 2023 07:55:04 -0400 HamletHub.com C.H. Booth Library Nonprofit Education Series: "Evaluation Services" on April 18 https://news.hamlethub.com/newtown/events/47116-c-h-booth-library-167898303047116-c-h-booth-library-1678983030 https://news.hamlethub.com/newtown/events/47116-c-h-booth-library-167898303047116-c-h-booth-library-1678983030

Tuesday, April 18 at 6 PM in the Meeting Room at the C.H. Booth Library.

Take advantage of this opportunity to learn and practice basic evaluation skills including target setting, evaluation logic and using effective data collection strategies. The session will also include tips and advice covering data analysis and reporting from an instructor who provided training and coaching for non-profit and philanthropic staff seeking to build evaluation capacity and enhance evaluative thinking in their organizations. Please register for this in-person event.

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reference@chboothlibrary.org (C.H. Booth Library) Events Fri, 24 Mar 2023 14:00:32 -0400
Newtown High School students win acclaim in student art show https://news.hamlethub.com/newtown/neighbors/47120-congratulations-to-brookfield-craft-center-s-student-art-show-awardees47120-congratulations-to-brookfield-craft-center-s-student-art-show-awardees https://news.hamlethub.com/newtown/neighbors/47120-congratulations-to-brookfield-craft-center-s-student-art-show-awardees47120-congratulations-to-brookfield-craft-center-s-student-art-show-awardees

Over 140 students from surrounding High Schools submitted works for display in the Lynn Tendler Bignell Gallery in our Mill Building. The show is now also available to view online, but please do not miss it in person. The works are so exceptional our judges had a hard time determining the award recipients in each of 12 categories and the Best in Show. Yet we gave out 37 awards, 3 in each category and the Best in Show.

Congratulations to Newtown High School students who earned award in the Artists on the Rise art show:

Maren Leyva

Eva Barricelli (shown in the photo)

Malcolm Zimmerman

Melissa Tagliarini

Amelia Rivera

Best in Show went to Melanie Boria from Nonnewaug For her drawing “Sweet Tooth”.

Congratulations to all who participated, and to the other award recipients. View image #2 to see a list of awardees for click here.

The show closes this Sunday, March 26th.

*Image shows Eva Barricelli from Newtown High School, in front of her work, "Vacant Symphony", 2nd place in Drawing Single Media Portraits.

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kerry@ducey.org (Brookfield Craft Center) Neighbors Fri, 24 Mar 2023 13:51:00 -0400
Skate With the Hat Tricks on Sunday, March 26th! https://news.hamlethub.com/newtown/neighbors/47121-skate-with-the-hat-tricks-on-sunday-march-26th47121-skate-with-the-hat-tricks-on-sunday-march-26th https://news.hamlethub.com/newtown/neighbors/47121-skate-with-the-hat-tricks-on-sunday-march-26th47121-skate-with-the-hat-tricks-on-sunday-march-26th

On Sunday, March 26th, the Danbury Hat Tricks welcome all fans to stay after the 3PM game against the Delaware Thunder to take to the ice and skate with your favorite players!

The Hat Tricks welcome all fans of all ages! Any fan 17 years or under is invited to use this link to register for a complimentary ticket to the game. 

The Danbury Ice Arena provides the option for skate rental at the arena for those who do not have their own. 

Any additional questions can be sent to Chris Lynch- clynch@danburyhattricks.com

The Hat Tricks look forward to welcoming all their fans to skate with the Hat Tricks!

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commandercarey@gmail.com (Danbury Hat Tricks) Neighbors Thu, 23 Mar 2023 06:30:54 -0400
RVNAhealth Proudly Introduces the Parkinson’s Center https://news.hamlethub.com/newtown/life/47117-rvnahealth-proudly-introduces-the-parkinson-s-center47117-rvnahealth-proudly-introduces-the-parkinson-s-center https://news.hamlethub.com/newtown/life/47117-rvnahealth-proudly-introduces-the-parkinson-s-center47117-rvnahealth-proudly-introduces-the-parkinson-s-center

RVNAhealth proudly announces the opening of the RVNAhealth Parkinson’s Center, located at 27 Governor Street, Ridgefield.

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is the second-most common neurodegenerative disease after Alzheimer's disease, affecting an estimated 10,000 people in CT, with the incidence of newly diagnosed cases rising. With the opening of its Center, RVNAhealth aims to become a premier and integral Parkinson’s resource to those diagnosed, their caregivers, and medical teams.

The Parkinson’s Resource Gap

Gigi Weiss, MSPT, CADDCT, LSVT BIG, AIB-VR, Parkinson’s Center Director, explained the importance of this new RVNAhealth community resource, “People with Parkinson’s and their and families are frustrated! We’ve heard numerous stories from patients who felt somewhat stranded and confused after their PD diagnosis. Truth of the matter is that a playbook for Parkinson’s doesn’t exist and there are very limited local resources available to help. At RVNAhealth, we realized we had the ability to fill this gap and make a difference in the lives of the PD community. Many do not realize that they can effectively slow the progression of Parkinson’s disease with the proper tools, resources, education, and support. We are here to provide that Parkinson’s support to the whole patient – mind, body, spiritual – with these needs met all in one place.”

About the RVNAhealth Parkinson’s Center

The RVNAhealth Parkinson’s Center is a multi-disciplinary team, certified through the Parkinson’s Foundation, that works together to help each center member from all angles of health. The rehabilitation team consists of physical therapists, physical therapist assistants, occupational therapists, and speech and language pathologists – all LSVT BIG and LSVT LOUD certified. Additional resources of the Parkinson’s Center include a dedicated medical doctor, registered nurse, and registered dietitian; a team of mental health professionals, including social work and spiritual care; a resource library comprised of local and national resources; a video library of exercises and support tools; a monthly newsletter; and access to the RVNAhealth Continuum of Services.

Kate Campbell, DPT, SCS, Cert. MDT, CSCS, LSVT BIG, Parkinson’s Center Program Manager, provided more details, “The Parkinson’s Center aims to become a central resource to help develop, coordinate, and support the best possible proactive attack against Parkinson’s disease for our members. Here, people with Parkinson’s will take control of a difficult diagnosis with the help of trained specialists to support them, their caregiver and family. In addition to supporting our members and family, we look forward to partnering with the medical community to develop the most needed programs to support their Parkinson’s patients.”

The Center is comprised of three main components: exercise classes led by physical therapists; monthly programs, including support groups to address mental health, activities to promote social engagement, and education on disease awareness and management; and “PD Bootcamp”. Campbell described RVNAhealth’s unique PD Bootcamp, “PD Bootcamp is an eight-week intensive program that leads the person with Parkinson’s through bi-weekly exercise classes and one-on-one sessions with members of the Parkinson’s Center interdisciplinary clinical team to create an individualized care plan to help them continue living their best life with Parkinson's.”

RVNAhealth’s Parkinson’s Center Kickoff Starts in April!

April officially kicks off the opening of the Parkinson’s Center with a few key community events, including an exercise lecture on April 6th at the Ridgefield Library and a cooking class on April 12th at RVNAhealth--all focused on Parkinson’s disease. All event and registration details can be found online through the RVNAhealth calendar at rvnahealth.org/calendar.

On April 20th, RVNAhealth will host a “Welcome to the Parkinson’s Center” event at its offices in Ridgefield. Attendees will meet the entire team, experience short lecture discussions, and learn more about what the RVNAhealth Parkinson’s Center has planned. Vendors with Parkinson’s-related offerings and expertise will also be available. Details and registration can be found on our website calendar or by contacting us at 203.438.5555 x1082. You may also learn more about the Parkinson’s Center at rvnahealth.org/parkinsonscenter.

Theresa Santoro, MSN, RN, CHCA, President and CEO of RVNAhealth, “I am extremely proud of the work our team has put into creating this much-needed program for those affected by Parkinson’s. The Parkinson’s Center is an excellent example of how we continue to grow and evolve in our mission to serve the lifelong health and wellness needs of our communities. We look forward to sharing our Parkinson’s Center with those affected and giving each person and their family the tools and confidence to live their best life.”

RVNAhealth is a private, non-profit, mission-driven organization founded and focused on care and dedicated to serving the lifelong health and wellness needs of individuals in the 35+ communities we serve across Connecticut. While our name and services have evolved since our founding as a home health care agency in 1914, our guiding principles have remained steadfast: a mission to serve, exceptional patient care, and a commitment to excellence in quality and service.

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kerry@ducey.org (Lisa Fleming) Life Thu, 23 Mar 2023 02:33:16 -0400
Brookfield Resident Alison DiPinto to Model in Fashion Show to Benefit Ann's Place! https://news.hamlethub.com/newtown/neighbors/47118-ann-s-place-fashion-show-model-spotlight-alison-dipinto47118-ann-s-place-fashion-show-model-spotlight-alison-dipinto https://news.hamlethub.com/newtown/neighbors/47118-ann-s-place-fashion-show-model-spotlight-alison-dipinto47118-ann-s-place-fashion-show-model-spotlight-alison-dipinto

Ann’s Place is thrilled to once again host its spring fashion show, On the Runway - Celebrating Role Models on April 25th at The Ridgefield Playhouse. The event is hosted by the hilarious Christine O'Leary. 

Now in its 7th year, the 2023 models will be wearing spring and summer fashions expertly curated by Audrey Road, located on Bailey Ave in Ridgefield. Tickets to the show are $30. Purchase tickets HERE.

Today we kick off our fashion show model spotlight series with our fabulous clinician Alison DiPinto.
 
Read a bit about why Alison is participating in this year’s show and learn how to support Ann’s Place here.

*With your donation, you are supporting the mission of Ann's Place- to provide comfort, support and resources to people living with cancer and to their loved ones- all free of charge. For more information on the fashion show and Ann's Place please visit their website: www.annsplacefashion.org.

 

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kerry@ducey.org (HH) Neighbors Tue, 21 Mar 2023 14:31:00 -0400
Core Competencies: a virtual program with A. Nicole Campbell on April 5 https://news.hamlethub.com/newtown/events/47115-c-h-booth-library-167898167647115-c-h-booth-library-1678981676 https://news.hamlethub.com/newtown/events/47115-c-h-booth-library-167898167647115-c-h-booth-library-1678981676

C.H. Booth Library presents Core Competencies: a virtual program with A. Nicole Campbell on Wednesday, April 5 at 6 PM via Zoom.

This session will cover the legal, tax, and regulatory rules governing nonprofits and how being compliant with these rules strengthens programming and operations.

Please register in advance to receive the Zoom link here

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reference@chboothlibrary.org (C.H. Booth Library) Events Mon, 20 Mar 2023 11:54:41 -0400
Music is in the air this spring at WCSU https://news.hamlethub.com/newtown/events/47119-music-is-in-the-air-this-spring-at-wcsu47119-music-is-in-the-air-this-spring-at-wcsu https://news.hamlethub.com/newtown/events/47119-music-is-in-the-air-this-spring-at-wcsu47119-music-is-in-the-air-this-spring-at-wcsu

Springtime at Western Connecticut State University means warm breezes, green grounds and music in the air, especially with several events planned to showcase the talents of WCSU musicians and performers.

Sponsored by the WCSU Department of Music, all events are open to the public (tickets can be purchased at wcsuvpac.eventbrite.com) and held in the Veronica Hagman Concert Hall, located in WCSU’s Visual and Performing Arts Center (VPAC), 43 Lake Ave. Extension, Danbury:

Piano Studio Recital, 3 – 4:30 p.m. on Sunday, April 2. Tickets are $7 plus fees online, $10 at the door.

Opera Scenes, 2 – 4:30 p.m. on Saturday, April 15. Tickets are $10 plus fees online, $15 at the door. This event features the WCSU Opera Ensemble in favorite opera scenes and excerpts.

Percussion Ensemble, 3 – 4:30 p.m. on Sunday, April 16. Tickets are $7 plus fees online, $10 at the door.

Chamber Singers and University Choir, 3 – 5 p.m. on Sunday, April 23. Tickets are $7 plus fees online, $10 at the door.

Orchestra and Concert Chorale, 3 – 5 p.m. on Saturday, May 6. Tickets are $7 plus fees online, $10 at the door.

Wind Ensemble and Symphonic Band, 3 – 5 p.m. on Sunday, May 7. Tickets are $7 plus fees online, $10 at the door.

Western Connecticut State University is an accredited institutional member of the National Association of Schools of Music. WCSU’s Department of Music is part of the School of Visual and Performing Arts, and offers a range of the highest quality academic, artistic, pre-professional and professional programming within a liberal arts environment. Additionally, it supports and fosters an environment conducive to the professional and artistic growth of faculty and students, and ensures students’ success by meeting their needs in advising, mentoring and professional development. The university offers several bachelor and master degree’s in music, performance and education, go to www.wcsu.edu/music/degrees for more information.

The program is housed in the Visual and Performing Arts Center, a state-of-the art, all-in-one facility that hosts a multitude of dynamic spaces to accommodate the needs of artists across all disciplines. The versatile facilities include the Veronica Hagman Concert Hall, MainStage Theatre, the art Gallery, Recording Studio, Music Technology Lab, Electronic Music Workshop, Studio Theatre, Scene Shop, Dressing Rooms, and Sculpture, Photography, Graphic Design and Art Studios including the M.F.A. Studios. 

For more information on the spring performances, contact the Box Office at wcsuvpac@gmail.com or at (203) 837-8732, or WCSU Public Relations at pr@wcsu.edu.

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kerry@ducey.org (Janine Azzi) Events Mon, 20 Mar 2023 11:00:46 -0400
Medicare & Beyond at C.H. Booth Library on April 5 https://news.hamlethub.com/newtown/events/47114-c-h-booth-library-167897328647114-c-h-booth-library-1678973286 https://news.hamlethub.com/newtown/events/47114-c-h-booth-library-167897328647114-c-h-booth-library-1678973286

Medicare & Beyond on Wednesday, April 5 at 6 pm in the Gathering Room of the C.H. Booth Library.

The father / daughter team of Lou and Jessica Pelletier will sort through:

Parts (A - Hospital;
B - Physician and Outpatient Coverage;
D - Drug Coverage) and
review the pros and cons of Medicare Supplement Plans and Medicare Advantage Plans.
Learn about:

IRMAA (Income Related Monthly Adjusted Amount)
Medicare Savings Programs,
a Medical Power of Attorney and
how to protect your assets from nursing homes without having Long-Term Care Insurance.
Join us if you are a senior, a child of a senior, or just want to know more. Please register in advance for this in-person event.

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reference@chboothlibrary.org (C.H. Booth Library ) Events Fri, 17 Mar 2023 10:16:43 -0400
C.H. Booth Nonprofit Education Series: Grassi's 2022/3 Nonprofit Leadership Survey Results https://news.hamlethub.com/newtown/events/47113-c-h-booth-library-167897179347113-c-h-booth-library-1678971793 https://news.hamlethub.com/newtown/events/47113-c-h-booth-library-167897179347113-c-h-booth-library-1678971793

Tuesday, April 4 at 6 PM in the Meeting Room of the C.H. Booth Library (hybrid)

Join this program to learn about Grassi's survey results. These findings provide an insightful perspective into current conditions and outlooks, straight from the people who are leading the charge across a broad range of nonprofit sectors and organizations.

Please register for the event in advance. Visit this page for information about the other Nonprofit Education Series events.

About the speaker:
Bryan Fryer is a Consulting Principal in Grassi’s Nonprofit Practice. In this role, he is committed to advising nonprofit organizations, associations, and foundations on improving financial health, mitigating risk, and achieving long-term sustainability.

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reference@chboothlibrary.org (C.H. Booth Library) Events Thu, 16 Mar 2023 13:15:52 -0400
15th Annual Hearts of Hope Breakfast on March 8th was the Place to Be https://news.hamlethub.com/newtown/charities/47112-15th-annual-hearts-of-hope-breakfast-on-march-8th-was-the-place-to-be47112-15th-annual-hearts-of-hope-breakfast-on-march-8th-was-the-place-to-be https://news.hamlethub.com/newtown/charities/47112-15th-annual-hearts-of-hope-breakfast-on-march-8th-was-the-place-to-be47112-15th-annual-hearts-of-hope-breakfast-on-march-8th-was-the-place-to-be

The Center for Empowerment & Education’s (CEE) 15th annual Hearts of Hope Breakfast was held on Wednesday, March 8, 2023, at the Candlewood Inn in Brookfield. The Candlewood Inn generously donates the venue, food, and waitstaff service for this event in support of CEE’s critical programs and services that are needed now more than ever.                      

This year’s “Service Above Self” honorees were mother and daughter, Jacqueline and Eva Aveiga, with the awards presented by State Senator Julie Kushner. Jacqueline and Eva are dedicated supporters of CEE and are avid advocates of empowering all individuals.

“Thank you so much to CEE for selecting us this year as the Service Above Self Award honorees. This organization holds a dear place in our hearts as it coincides perfectly with our mission to empower and uplift all individuals at Miss & Teen Danbury CT. CEE is such an amazing organization and to see the room full of inspiring individuals and businesses supporting their work to provide services at no cost to sexual assault and domestic violence victims was powerful,” said Eva Aveiga, 2023 Service Above Self Award recipient.

The theme of this year’s event was “How Our Stories Impact Theirs.” Brave and resilient staff members of CEE shared their lived experiences on paper and were so beautifully and respectfully brought to life by several of CEE’s Board members. The stories displayed survival, thriving, and hope and it’s clear that the CEE staff has had an amazing impact on the community.

“People with lived experience should not be considered as the walking wounded. Instead, they should be looked at as experts because of their experience and as a result, their expertise can affect lasting change. Because of the path that a victim has walked, new policies and laws are born. It takes these experiences for decision-makers to put a face to a story and understand the significance of their role in developing, passing, and implementing trauma-informed processes, policies, and laws. We need to embed lived experience and the voices of survivors into every aspect of interpersonal violence programs and advocacy,” said Ashley Dunn, CEE President and CEO.

If you’d like to get more involved with CEE and help us continue the work of changing stories from survivor to thriver, contact us at thecenter@thecenterct.org.

 

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matthew.a@thecenterct.org (The Center for Empowerment and Education) Charities Thu, 16 Mar 2023 13:14:55 -0400
WCSU presents renowned Afghan potter Matin Malikzada https://news.hamlethub.com/newtown/neighbors/47111-wcsu-presents-renowned-afghan-potter-matin-malikzada47111-wcsu-presents-renowned-afghan-potter-matin-malikzada https://news.hamlethub.com/newtown/neighbors/47111-wcsu-presents-renowned-afghan-potter-matin-malikzada47111-wcsu-presents-renowned-afghan-potter-matin-malikzada

Western Connecticut State University will sponsor a special event with renowned potter Matin Malikzada, a refugee from Istalif, Afghanistan, who has had his work shown around the world, on Saturday, April 1, from 9:30 a.m. until noon at the university’s pottery studio in White Hall, Room 017, on the Midtown campus, 181 White St., Danbury. Registration is required to attend this event at wcsuvpac.eventbrite.com.

Malikzada, a seventh-generation Afghan master potter, fled the Taliban to resettle in New Milford with help from New Milford Refugee Resettlement. His work is internationally recognized for its technical skill and elegant designs, and has been displayed all around the world, including in the Japan International Museum, Tokyo, Japan; the Islamic National Museum, Doha, Qatar; Leighton House and Buckingham Palace, London, United Kingdom; the Smithsonian Institute’s Sackler Gallery in Washington, D.C.; and at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland.

In Kabul, Malikzada served as head of the Ceramics Department at the Turquoise Mountain Institute, where he studied in his youth. After graduating, he was hired as a Master of Ceramics and eventually led the department. Additionally, Malikzada earned a bachelor’s degree in Law from Tabesh University in Kabul, has earned certificates in Design and Crafts from the City and Guilds Institute of London, was a visiting artist at the Institute of Ceramic Studies at Shigaraki, Japan, and authored books on Istalifi pottery. Malikzada revitalized the nearly lost art of Istalifi pottery and has trained more than 100 artisans in these ancient techniques.

Malikzada will provide a presentation on his experiences and a demonstration of his craft. The event is sponsored by the WCSU Department of Art, the Office of Diversity and Equity and the Muslim Student Association, and WCSU Adjunct Professor of Ceramics Jurg Lanzrein will serve as co-host. Space is limited; registration for this event is required at wcsuvpac.eventbrite.com.

For more information, contact Ken Scaglia at scagliak@wcsu.edu or WCSU Public Relations at pr@wcsu.edu.

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kerry@ducey.org (Janine Azzi) Neighbors Tue, 14 Mar 2023 11:17:00 -0400
The Golf Performance Center and Golf Quest Announce Partnership to Bring Golf Instruction to the Masses! https://news.hamlethub.com/newtown/places/47110-the-golf-performance-center-and-golf-quest-announce-partnership-to-bring-golf-instruction-to-the-masses47110-the-golf-performance-center-and-golf-quest-announce-partnership-to-bring-golf-instruction-to-the-masses https://news.hamlethub.com/newtown/places/47110-the-golf-performance-center-and-golf-quest-announce-partnership-to-bring-golf-instruction-to-the-masses47110-the-golf-performance-center-and-golf-quest-announce-partnership-to-bring-golf-instruction-to-the-masses


The Golf Performance Center (The GPC) – a junior golf academy and industry thought leader in player development innovations, physical performance and golf skill instruction in Ridgefield, CT– has partnered with Golf Quest Range in Brookfield, CT to offer golf and physical coaching programs and instruction.

The Golf Performance Center will partner with Golf Quest Range in Brookfield, CT to provide all golf and physical instruction. Golf Quest customers will be able to participate in a wide range of instruction programs for golfers of all ages and skill levels as well as junior camps offered throughout the year. Instruction provided by PGA and GPC-certified instructors will allow area participants to receive premier-level instruction in a fun environment and for all age and skill levels. Whether picking up a club for the first time or ready to take their skills to the next level.

Golf Quest, located in Brookfield, CT, features 69 technology-enabled hitting bays, delicious food and drinks, and programs for all golfers. Golf Quest was purchased by Blue Jeans Golf  in November of 2021 and has been transformed into the premier public golf range in Connecticut. The range features Toptracer technology to bring virtual games, courses, and competitions to every bay.  Whether people are coming for their daily range session, birthday party, corporate event, or one of its golf leagues, Golf Quest has golf and fun for everyone.

“We are thrilled to bring over 25 years of golf coaching experience to the newly renovated Golf Quest and provide greater access to the game to the Ridgefield/Danbury/Brookfield area. This partnership allows us to further our mission of helping grow the game of golf and help people achieve their goals on and off the golf course in a fun and relaxed group environment.” – Roger Knick, Founder and CEO of The Golf Performance Center.

“We are excited to work with Golf Performance Center to bring golf instruction to Golf Quest. As the greater Brookfield area has embraced the New Golf Quest, we were seeking a first-class, local partner to help shepherd people along their golf journey, regardless of skill-level, background, or experience. This partnership is an exciting step forward to grow public golf in Connecticut, and we have a lot of fun, creative programs we can’t wait to bring to life.” – Michael Canfield Blue Jean Golf Co-Founder.

Group coaching programs delivered by GPC-certified coaches will begin April 1, 2023 offering drop-in programs for both adults and juniors as well as season passes.

A Spring Break Golf Camp for juniors will be held April 10th through the 13th for ages 7 to 16. Additional summer camps will also be offered.

For more information or to register for all programs visit Golf Quest’s program page here.

For more than 20 years, The GPC has successfully guided nearly 100 competitors as they prepare for golf at the highest levels. Alumni include multiple NCAA All-Americans, current and former student-athletes at 80 different colleges and universities and professionals who have won on the Korn Ferry Tour, Mackenzie Tour – PGA TOUR Canada and European Tour.

Located in Ridgefield, Conn., The GPC integrates state-of-the-art training facilities and expert coaching to help athletes reach their goals. Beginning with the one-of-a-kind “5 Elements of Success” evaluation, the academy delivers customized instruction designed to provide aspiring golfers with tools for long-term success.


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kerry@ducey.org (GPC) Places Tue, 14 Mar 2023 09:29:02 -0400
Blood Drive at Newtown Congregational Church on March 23 https://news.hamlethub.com/newtown/charities/47109-blood-drive-at-newtown-congregational-church-on-march-2347109-blood-drive-at-newtown-congregational-church-on-march-23 https://news.hamlethub.com/newtown/charities/47109-blood-drive-at-newtown-congregational-church-on-march-2347109-blood-drive-at-newtown-congregational-church-on-march-23

Red Cross Blood Drive at Newtown Congregational Chuch (14 West Street) on Thursday, March 23 from 8:30 am to 1:30 pm

Schedule a blood donation appointment by downloading Red Cross Blood Donor App, visiting RedCrossBlood.orgcalling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or enabling the Blood Donor Skill on any Alexa Echo device.

Learn more https://www.newtown-ct.gov/home/news/march-23-blood-drive

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kerry@ducey.org (HH) Charities Mon, 13 Mar 2023 11:46:24 -0400
Community Panel on Substance Use and Addiction in Newtown on March 14 https://news.hamlethub.com/newtown/events/47108-community-panel-on-substance-use-and-addiction-in-newtown-on-march-1447108-community-panel-on-substance-use-and-addiction-in-newtown-on-march-14 https://news.hamlethub.com/newtown/events/47108-community-panel-on-substance-use-and-addiction-in-newtown-on-march-1447108-community-panel-on-substance-use-and-addiction-in-newtown-on-march-14

Local experts present "Balancing Our Hopes and Concerns", a Community Panel on Substance Use and Addiction at Newtown Congregational Church from 7 to 8:30 p.m. Tuesday, March 14.

The panel will be moderated by Allison Fulton, Executive Director, Western CT Coalition.

Learn more about the event here.

 

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kerry@ducey.org (HH) Events Mon, 13 Mar 2023 11:42:54 -0400
Governor Lamont Announces $11.5 Million To Continue Connecticut’s Popular Summer Enrichment Program in 2023 and 2024 https://news.hamlethub.com/newtown/politics/47106-governor-lamont-announces-11-5-million-to-continue-connecticut-s-popular-summer-enrichment-program-in-2023-and-202447106-governor-lamont-announces-11-5-million-to-continue-connecticut-s-popular-summer-enrichment-program-in-2023-and-2024 https://news.hamlethub.com/newtown/politics/47106-governor-lamont-announces-11-5-million-to-continue-connecticut-s-popular-summer-enrichment-program-in-2023-and-202447106-governor-lamont-announces-11-5-million-to-continue-connecticut-s-popular-summer-enrichment-program-in-2023-and-2024

Governor Ned Lamont and Education Commissioner Charlene M. Russell-Tucker today announced that the Connecticut State Department of Education is releasing $11.5 million from its share of federal American Rescue Plan Act funds to continue its highly successful Summer Enrichment Program in summer 2023 and summer 2024.

The governor proposed the creation of the program in 2021 in an effort to connect students whose education may have been negatively impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic to high-quality enrichment opportunities when they are out of school during the summer months, including at summer camps, childcare centers, and other similar programs, with a priority for those in communities that were disproportionately impacted by the pandemic. The state continued the program in 2022. With the release of this additional funding for 2023 and 2024, Connecticut will have dedicated $32 million in federal COVID-19 relief funding over four years for students’ summer enrichment programming. Since its creation, the program has provided funding to more than 400 organizations in Connecticut that offer summer learning opportunities.

Governor Lamont said, “Investing in our children’s future is a priority for Connecticut. With this investment, we can extend this successful program for another two years and ensure that more of Connecticut’s children have access to summer enrichment and learning opportunities, regardless of their family’s income level. This program is helping provide a safe and enriching summer experience for our kids and will benefit our communities for years to come.”

Applications from organizations that want to participate in the program in 2023 and 2024 are now being accepted by the State Department of Education. To apply, visit portal.ct.gov/SDE/COVID19/AccelerateCT/Summer-Enrichment. Applications must be submitted no later than April 3, 2023.

Similar to the prior two years, the program will award funding to the most competitive summer programs. For 2023 and 2024, applicants can apply for either two expansion grants (up to $50,000 each, for a maximum of $100,000) or two innovation grants (up to $150,000 each, for a maximum of $300,000) per program site. Camps must use the funds to expand the number of students served, subsidize enrollment costs by providing scholarships, or provide transportation for program participants.

The Connecticut State Department of Education will host a virtual information session for interested grant applicants on March 16, 2023, at 12:00 p.m. Registration is required. A video recording of the session will be published on the Summer Enrichment website shortly after its conclusion.

An independent evaluation of the 2021 program concluded that the initiative successfully connected more than 108,000 Connecticut students with summertime enrichment opportunities. A similar evaluation of the 2022 program is expected to be released soon.

Connecticut families seeking to enroll their children in summer programs this year will soon be able to browse available opportunities online by visiting summerct.org. A listing of opportunities for 2023 will be published on that website in the coming weeks as the summer season approaches.

 

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kerry@ducey.org (Gov. Ned Lamont) Politics Mon, 13 Mar 2023 11:10:15 -0400