Norwalk's HamletHub

Red Cross helps family after fire on Avenue E in Norwalk

kerry@ducey.org (Red Cross) — Sun, 26 Mar 2023 05:31:45 -0400

The American Red Cross is helping one family – one adult after a fire yesterday on Avenue E., Norwalk.

The Red Cross provided assistance to meet the family's immediate needs. Responders included: Francis Cassella, Emily Lowenthal-Cassella, Ginger Flynn, Steven Chen and KaydiAnn Sterling.

The Red Cross also provided a recovery envelope containing information helpful to families recovering from a fire, including tips on cleanup; notification of important contacts; dealing with damaged items and more. The Red Cross is also providing comfort kits containing personal care items such as deodorant, toothbrushes, shaving supplies and other items a resident might need when suddenly displaced from their home by a fire.

Those affected will connect with Red Cross caseworkers in the coming days to work on a longer-term recovery plan. The Red Cross is able to provide assistance through the generosity of our donors and commitment of our volunteers.

MyCTSavings: Retirement Plan At No Cost

kerry@ducey.org (Fairfield Chamber ) — Sat, 25 Mar 2023 07:38:22 -0400

Connecticut - The State of Connecticut mandates that businesses with 5 or more employees offer a qualified retirement savings program for their employees.

More than 600,000 private-sector workers do not have access to a retirement savings plan through their employer. MyCTSavings, offered through the Office of the State Comptroller, is working to change that, by offering a retirement plan at no cost to businesses, with the convenience of automatic payroll deductions for employees.

The deadline for employers to sign up for the program is March 30, 2023.

You can find program details at www.myctsavings.com

FC Buzz Weekend of Art and Culture in Fairfield County March 24-26

kerry@ducey.org (Lorie Lewis) — Fri, 24 Mar 2023 12:23:46 -0400

FC Buzz Weekend March 24-26

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 the 15 towns in our region of coastal Fairfield County and each Wednesday issues our free eBuzz newsletter with a selection of the hundreds of events posted to our website.

Acoustic Alchemy

FTC StageOne, Fairfield

Friday, Marcy 24, 7:45 pm

This Grammy-nominated band is known for playing a distinctive blend of jazz, classical, flamenco, and new age. Top Ten Billboard jazz albums include The Beautiful Game, Grammy-nominated AArt, and Roseland, the latter of which marked the group's 30th anniversary. If you are into sophisticated instrumentals, this one’s for you.

“Pinky Patel: New Crown, Who Dhis Tour”

The Ridgefield Playhouse

Friday, March 24, 8:00 - 9:30 pm

Get ready for hilarious commentary from the PTA mom turned creator, comedian and personality with a TikTok fan base of over 5 million. Pinky is best known for her viral videos from her glam cave. Don’t miss this fresh new comedian as she makes her Playhouse debut!

Cold “Year of the Spider” 20th Anniversary Tour

Wall Street Theater, Norwalk

Friday, March 24, 8:00 - 10:00 pm

Who’s ready to rock? These hard rockers and nu-metal champions are featured on a dynamic 4-band bill that includes Divide the Fall, Awake for Days, Sygnal to Noise and Death Valley Dreams. It’s a live peek of the new album that hit No. 3 on the Billboard Top 200, on its way to Gold.

The Garden Shed

The MAC – Milford Arts Council

Saturday, March 25, 6:30 - 9:30 pm

Be the first to witness Connecticut's best up and coming bands, artists, and fashion presented by MC Doozy. This multi-genre show includes acts ranging from punk, to RnB, Indie and rock. Featuring: Pond View, Amar, Esmer, Brooke Dougan, SB Khi, with guest performer Edwin Camille.

Bushwhacked! and Other Short Plays by Rosemary Foley

Greenwich Theatre Company

Saturday, March 25, 7:30 pm and Sunday, March 26, 2:00 pm

Celebrate Women’s History Month by entering the unique world of legendary local comedic playwright Rosemary Foley - featuring six absurd, satirical and darkly-funny short plays, along with three intimate monologues about Rosemary's life. Rosemary is a decades-long member of Connecticut's Theatre Artists Workshop, where she workshopped many of the plays in this production.

Family Time at the Museum

The Norwalk Art Space

Sunday, March 26, 12:00 - 2:00 pm

Calling all families! Experience a deeper understanding about how museums and art can be fun and meaningful through observation, drawing and sharing. This free event is open to students ages 11 and up | 16 spots per class | Registration required.

“In Light Of” Art Exhibit

Metro Art Studios, Bridgeport

Sunday, March 26, 12:00 - 4:00 pm

Don’t miss this stunning exhibit playing on light and dark, textures, and materials - dealing with themes of perception, environment, connection, and separation; many serene on the surface with depth and undercurrents for the viewer to explore. Participating artists include Tamara Dimitri, Nadia Martinez, and Debbie Smith. On view through May 6th in the ground floor Crown Gallery, Thursdays through Saturdays, 12-4 pm.

“Camera Works” Walk and Talk

Ridgefield Guild of Artists

Sunday, March 26, 2:00 - 4:00 pm

It’s the final view of this popular exhibit with a Walk and Talk featuring four of the participating artists in this year's show: Ralph Baskin, Debra Burger, Andrew Graham, and Phillip Stark. Come and hear them speak about their methods and inspirations.

“Norwalk Symphony Meets Beethoven”

Norwalk Concert Hall

Sunday, March 26, 3:00 - 5:00 pm

Members of the Norwalk Symphony will sit side-by-side with members of the Norwalk Youth Symphony's Principal Orchestra for this performance. Featuring the 2021 Concerto Competition Winner, Sadie Goodman, with Georges Hues' Fantasie for Flute and Orchestra and Beatrice Low performing the 1st movement of Wieniawski's Violin Concerto #2. Also on the program: Beethoven's Egmont Overture and Symphony No. 6.

See these and discover hundreds more events on the FCBUZZ EVENTS page at https://culturalalliancefc.org Sign up for the Cultural Alliance eBuzz to receive top picks and spotlights each week in your inbox.

RVNAhealth Proudly Introduces the Parkinson’s Center

kerry@ducey.org (Lisa Fleming) — Thu, 23 Mar 2023 02:33:16 -0400

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.

Free Tuesday Zumba Night at The SoNo Collection

norwalk@maxexposure.net (The SoNo Collection) — Wed, 22 Mar 2023 14:28:44 -0400

Join Zumba extraordinaire Christina Rabasco & Amber Allen at The SoNo Collection every Tuesday from 6:00 pm -6:45 pm.

Class is located on Level 2, M&T Bank’s The Magnificent Room.

Classes are free and start promptly at 6:00 pm. Be sure to wear your comfortable activewear and sneakers.

Have fun!

#XOSONO

@SHOPTHESONOCOLLECTION

Lamont Announces Plans to Launch Intensive Mathematics Tutoring Program for Students in Grades 6-9 To Address Learning Loss From Pandemic

kerry@ducey.org (Gov. Ned Lamont) — Wed, 22 Mar 2023 11:27:26 -0400

Governor Ned Lamont and Education Commissioner Charlene M. Russell Tucker today announced that the Connecticut State Department of Education is preparing to launch the Connecticut High-Dosage Tutoring Program – a new statewide program for students in grades 6 to 9 that will provide intensive tutoring in mathematics to accelerate learning and address learning loss resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic.

To support the creation of this program, the Connecticut State Department of Education is allocating $10 million from its share of federal COVID-19 recovery funds provided through the American Rescue Plan Elementary and Secondary School Relief Fund. The dedication of this funding represents a continued commitment by the Lamont administration and the State Department of Education to invest in programs with a demonstrable and time-tested record of impact on student learning.

An analysis of 2022 Smarter Balanced Assessment scores shows “declines in student proficiency of around 6 to 8 percentage points in English language arts and math.” Students in grades 6 to 8 “may be 5 to 7 months behind in English language arts and a year or more behind in math.” Additionally, recent National Assessment for Educational Progress results in Connecticut reveal significant declines in math scores since the assessment was first administered in 1990.

High-dosage tutoring is a nationally recognized education strategy for boosting student academic achievement. It is being implemented in states and districts across the country as they seek ways to address learning loss from the pandemic. When implemented in accordance with rigorous and well-tested design principles, research has found that students can learn as much as one to two years of math beyond what they might typically achieve in the classroom and experience reductions in failure rates by more than 50%. Elements of Connecticut’s model, which will be released in the coming weeks, will adhere closely to these research principles.

The State Department of Education is preparing to make this program available in Connecticut schools during the 2023-2024 academic year. The department will soon launch a competitive grant application for school districts that are interested in participating. In addition to grant funding, a vetted list of approved tutoring providers will be provided to school districts from which they can choose to augment their school’s tutoring capacity.

To prepare for the program’s launch, the State Department of Education is currently soliciting surveys from tutoring providers that are interested in participating. Tutoring providers that want to be considered can fill out the survey that is available online at portal.ct.gov/SDE/COVID19/AccelerateCT/High-Dosage-Tutoring.

Additionally, the State Department of Education will soon release a request for a technical assistance provider to join the department in coaching schools on best practices for building high-dosage tutoring programs.

More information on the Connecticut High-Dosage Tutoring Program and updates on its development are being published online at portal.ct.gov/SDE/COVID19/AccelerateCT/High-Dosage-Tutoring.

Installation and Public Art (with Resident Artist Lily Morgan) April 28 through May 19

info@thenorwalkartspace.org (The Norwalk Art Space) — Wed, 22 Mar 2023 05:57:49 -0400

Students will collaborate to create an immersive installation art piece taking inspiration from Andy Goldsworthy, Jeanne-Claude and Christo, Yayoi Kusama and other contemporary art makers at The Norwalk Art Space.

Over the 5-week course, students will learn what separates installation art from sculpture and will work together to develop and execute a piece of their own in the TNAS loft installation room. Free and open to students 13 - 18 yrs of age | 12 spots | Registration required. Occurs every Friday from April 28th to May 19th.

College Portfolio Review with Korry Fellow Sarah King on Saturday, April 1 in Norwalk

info@thenorwalkartspace.org (The Norwalk Art Space) — Mon, 20 Mar 2023 05:56:41 -0400

Korry Fellow Sarah King will host a second round of portfolio reviews on Saturday, April 1 from 10am to 1pm at The Norwalk Art Space for those High School students looking to enroll in art school in the Fall.

Free for high school and Community College students.

Up to 8 spots are available.

Registration is Required. From 10am - 1pm on April 1.

FC Buzz: St. Patrick's Day Weekend of Arts and Culture in Fairfield County

kerry@ducey.org (Lorie Lewis) — Fri, 17 Mar 2023 10:06:47 -0400

FC Buzz Weekend March 17 - March 19

Top ‘o the mornin’, evenin’, and afternoon to ya! This St Patrick’s Weekend is pure gold! A full rainbow of arts and cultural events that will delight lucky audiences all over Fairfield County. Enjoy!

St. Patrick’s Day with the Highland Rovers and Green Eyed Lady 21+

StageOne at FTC, Fairfield

Friday, March 17, 5:30 pm

Happy St. Patty’s Day! It’s a treasure trove of all that is fair, lively, and true about the sounds of the Emerald Isle. HRB’s multi-layered, upbeat, and danceable music showcases their universal appeal to both mainstream modern rock lovers and culturally diverse audiences searching for a distinct Celtic flavor.

Jim Royle Drum Studio Steel Pan Fundraising Concert

Saugatuck Congregational Church, Westport

Friday, March 17, 7:00 - 9:00 pm

This concert features Jim Royle Ensembles D, C, B and A, along with special guests Mystic Bowie and Silver Steel! The proceeds of this concert will go to a student mission trip to the hills of Jamaica to teach and share the love of steel pan with students from the Accompong Maroon Youth Culture Camp, on behalf of the Mystic Bowie Cultural Center.

DANCE is in the AIR

Darien Arts Center

Friday and Saturday, March 17-18, 7:30 - 9:00 pm

Love, passion, and playfulness is at the heart of East Coast Contemporary Ballet’s Winter Season dance performance. Enjoy four neoclassical and contemporary love duets, including excerpts from Manon and Carmen, and an original and fresh world premiere.

The Rocky Horror Show

Music Theatre of Connecticut, Norwalk

Friday & Saturday, March 17-18, 8 pm

Saturday & Sunday, March 18-19, 2 pm

A humorous, naughty, and wildly entertaining cult-classic musical closes out MTC’s 36th MainStage Season. This show takes place on a stormy night when Brad and Janet, a simple engaged couple, get their lives turned upside down by Frank ‘N’ Furter and his household of strange Transylvanians. Running four weekends through April 8th.

Colleens of Comedy

The Palace Theatre, Stamford

Friday, March 17, 8:00 - 10:00 pm

Get ready to burst out laughing with Jane Condon and Kendra Cunningham. Greenwich native comedian Jane Condon has been dubbed by the Associated Press as “an upper crust Roseanne.” Boston-bred and Brooklyn-based, Kendra Cunningham has been named as a comic to watch by Time Out New York and has been compared to Groucho Marx and Mae West by the UK’s Chortle.

“Mio Yamato: 呼吸する星 / The Breathing Star”

Heather Gaudio Fine Art Gallery, New Canaan

Saturday, March 18, 4:00 - 6:00 pm

Marking the Japanese artist’s first solo gallery exhibition in the United States, this show features newly created works along with a site-specific installation. In Yamato’s works, the ubiquitous dots of paint or ink are delicately deposited on the surface, making for quietly expressive compositions. The dotted arrangements render movement, gradation, and a sense of depth, mutating to create allusions to the natural world that extend beyond the picture plane. On view through April 29th

“Inside/Out”

Loft Artists Association Gallery, Stamford

Saturday, March 18, 4:00-6:00 pm

Out the windows. Inside the windows. This exhibit is all about what the member artists of the Loft see, what they don’t see, and what they hope to see. On view through April 16th.

Spring Exhibition: “Rainbow in the Dark”

MoCA Westport

Saturday, March 18, 6:00 - 8:00 pm

Get ready for the opening reception for a solo exhibit by German contemporary artist Anselm Reyle. Reyle’s best-known works include foil-and-strip paintings and sculptures. Remnants of consumer society, discarded materials, symbols of urbanity, and industrial change play a central role in his works. The exhibition includes 20 of his works, including a site-specific neon installation. Curated by Emann Odufu, an art activist, independent filmmaker, producer, screenwriter and digital media specialist. On view through May 28th.

“When Folklore Meets Choral”

Norwalk Concert Hall

Saturday, March 18, 7:30 - 9:30 pm

The Fairfield County Chorale, led by David Rosenmeyer, presents Argentine-born Rosenmeyer with music of Latin America and the 80-member Chorale performing Ariel Ramírez’ Misa Criolla, one of the earliest masses to be written in Spanish following the Second Vatican Council. The concert will also explore the music of the Andes and the Pampas of Latin America, through the songs of indigenous people.

Robert Klein

SHU Community Theatre, Fairfield

Saturday, March 18, 8:00 pm - 10:00 pm

It promises to be an evening you won’t forget. Get ready to laugh, chuckle, giggle, and roar with the comedian that Jerry Seinfeld once exclaimed, “... was The Beatles of comedy to me.” For more than 40 years, Robert Klein has been making audiences laugh and critics cheer on Broadway, television and film.

An Evening with Dennis Collins

The Palace Theatre, Stamford

Saturday, March 18, 8:00 pm - 10:00 pm

It has been said that the smooth, soulful voice of singer Dennis Collins goes straight to the heart of all who hear him! A truly gifted artist, Collins is a member of a rare breed of singers, with the ability to interpret many different musical styles. Dennis has recorded and performed with a wide range of artists such as Bob Dylan, Smokey Robinson, Bruce Springsteen, Willie Nelson, Whitney Houston, James Taylor, Carole King, Billy Joel, Steely Dan, David Bowie, Beyoncé, Alicia Keys, Jon Batiste, and many others!

Marvelous Metamorphoses

Carriage Barn Arts Center, New Canaan

Sunday, March 19, 1:00 pm

Bring the family to an engaging Sova Dance & Puppet Theater performance that brings nature's cycles to life through song, dance and the art of puppetry. Celebrate beautiful transformations in our world and the ecological health of our planet! All ages welcome.

“The Complete Beethoven Violin Sonatas”

Suzuki Music Schools, Westport

Sunday, March 19, 4:00 - 6:00 pm

The second in a concert series, join award-winning violinist Andrew Smith, director of the Suzuki Music Schools, and Grammy-nominated pianist Joshua Pierce as they continue to explore the genius of Beethoven.

“Women of Abstract Expressionism”

The Ridgefield Library

Tuesday, March 21, 6:30 pm

Examine the careers of four groundbreaking women artists affiliated with the Abstract Expressionist movement: Perle Fine, Grace Hartigan, Joan Mitchell, and Helen Frankenthaler. Wine and cheese will be served.

Fairfield County Bank Retail Banking Personnel Moves

kerry@ducey.org (Jillian Fernandez) — Thu, 16 Mar 2023 10:37:37 -0400

Fairfield County Bank is excited to announce the following promotion and moves in the Retail Banking Branch footprint.

Walter Romero has been promoted to Assistant Vice President and has assumed responsibility as Branch Manager of the Stamford Branch Office after spending the last year as Assistant Branch Manager of the Darien Branch Office. Mr. Romero first joined Fairfield County Bank in 2006 and has held numerous positions throughout his tenure and currently holds his series 6 and 63 registrations along with life insurance licenses. Walter is looking forward to building long-lasting relationships with and understanding the financial goals of his clients in Stamford. He is bilingual, speaking fluent English and Spanish.

Mr. Romero currently resides in Milford and enjoys spending time outside with his family. He is a graduate of the Connecticut School of Finance and Management and the College of Westchester, formerly the Westchester Business Institute.

Althea Francis has assumed responsibility for the Darien Branch Office as Vice President and Branch Manager. Ms. Francis’ banking career began with Fairfield County Bank in 1998, when she joined the Ridgefield Branch Office as a Staff Support Supervisor. Most recently, Althea was the Vice President and Branch Manager of the Wall Street Branch Office in Norwalk. She looks forward to creating new relationships in the Darien community.

Mrs. Francis currently resides in Norwalk and Waterbury and enjoys spending her free time with her family. She is also a graduate of the Connecticut School of Finance and Management.

Isaac Walcott, Vice President, and Branch Manager has assumed responsibility of the Wall Street Branch Office in Norwalk, in addition to serving as Branch Manager of the Broad River Office. Isaac has been with Fairfield County Bank for nearly twenty years and has held various positions throughout. A resident of Norwalk, he is passionate about the greater Norwalk community and serves on the advisory board at the Norwalk Art Space and as Commissioner at the Norwalk Housing Authority. Mr. Walcott graduated from the Connecticut School of Finance and Management in 2007.

To learn more about Walter, Althea and Isaac, click here.

Maritime Aquarium Announces Terrapin Tracking Training Session

kerry@ducey.org (Emily Lavin ) — Wed, 15 Mar 2023 12:03:17 -0400

Norwalk, CT – The Maritime Aquarium is currently seeking volunteers to join its Terrapin Tracking Team to protect Northern Diamondback Terrapins, a species of concern in the State of Connecticut. Virtual training sessions will be held on Tuesday, March 28, and Monday, April 3 at 7 p.m. for those interested in joining the team.

“As a species of concern in Connecticut, Northern Diamondback Terrapins population is considered low and at risk without human intervention,” said Vice President of Education Tom Naiman. “Community scientists who join our Terrapin Tracking Team will play a critical role is monitoring our local population, which will inform scientists who study local ecosystems.”

These terrapins can be found in the brackish water of the coast. Often they must cross roadways to reach their nesting sites in marshes and dunes. This puts them at an increased risk for car strikes leading up to and through mating season which peaks in June and July.

In the Aquarium’s virtual training sessions, volunteers will learn how to collect data and monitor roadways for mortalities. After the training, volunteers will be assigned a roadway to monitor weekly through August.

The programs are free to attend. Volunteers must be at least 18 years old or accompanied by a trained adult to participate. For more info, visit www.maritimeaquarium.org/community-science.

For more information, visit www.maritimeaquarium.org.

Community celebrates grand reopening of Norwalk's Cingari Family ShopRite

kerry@ducey.org (HH) — Tue, 14 Mar 2023 14:33:35 -0400

This week, Norwalk Mayor Rilling celebrated the grand reopening of the Cingari Family ShopRite of Southwestern Connecticut on 360 Connecticut Ave in Norwalk.

Following the official ribbon cutting, customers were invited to participate in fun activities including free balloon animals, cupcake decorating sessions, food samplings, and other special giveaways.

For a video of the ceremonial ribbon cutting, visit the City of Norwalk's Facebook page.

The popular supermarket is better than ever and will now offer area customers a number of new services and expanded grocery item selections.

“We are thrilled to be expanding the breadth of offerings for our customers,” says Tom Cingari, Sr., President and CEO of Cingari Family ShopRite. “We want to grow with our customers and change as their tastes change, which is ultimately the reason for this major renovation. We’re sure our customers will enjoy all the new amenities along with the traditional, family-run, friendly service we’re already known for – ShopRite of Norwalk is a one-stop shop for customers.”

According to Cingari's press release, new services at the Norwalk supermarket include The Grill – a station offering fresh off-the-grill and made-to-order breakfast (bacon, egg, and cheese sandwiches) and lunch/dinner options (hamburgers, hot dogs, Philly cheesesteaks, hot pastrami, chicken parm, sausage, and peppers). There are also expanded offerings at the grab-and-go section, along with new take-and-bake seafood: salmon, scallops, crab cakes, and more. The store is expanding its bread bar and donut selections, which are made fresh on-site every day. The bakery will also welcome a full-service, artisan cookie and chocolate counter. In addition to the expanded floral case, the floral department can now service any holiday or occasion.

"The renovated store includes an expanded selection of the custom Cingari Family ShopRite’s Grade Above line, featuring ready-to-cook selections in the seafood and meat departments (seasoned/marinated chicken, beef, pork, and seafood offerings), locally sourced coffee, ShopRite’s own line of spices, natural juices, fresh baked bread, and more," the company states.

A specialty cheese shop was also added during the renovation, with an experienced cheesemonger on site to assist customers. The cheese shop features new, fresh, custom-cut cheeses (over 400 varieties from around the world) and charcuterie trays. The meat department will continue to have a highly-trained team of expert butchers working behind the counter on fresh cuts and specialty meat orders. Additionally, there will be an expanded section of premium, prime dry-aged beef featuring rich, tender cuts of meat – all USDA choice or higher. And for those looking to quench their thirst, an expansive craft beer and soda section showcasing local breweries.

To accommodate on-the-go customers, ShopRite Order.Pickup.Deliver, is now available to service same-day, online, pickup and delivery orders across Norwalk, Westport, Darien, and New Canaan, CT. For those in-store shoppers in a hurry, the newly renovated market is offering an expanded number of self-checkout stations which are conveniently located right next to the courtesy desk.

Cingari Family ShopRite owns 12 grocery stores in southwestern Connecticut.

Westport Writers’ Workshop Returns to Westport Library for Pitch & Publish Conference May 20

kerry@ducey.org (Aline Weiller) — Tue, 14 Mar 2023 13:27:12 -0400

Westport Writers’ Workshop (WWW) announced their return to the Westport Library for their 2nd Annual Pitch & Publish Conference on Saturday, May 20, which will be both in-person and virtual.

Pitch & Publish is the ideal opportunity for those seeking a literary agent, wanting to be educated about the industry at large, or looking to meet and be inspired by authors, agents, and editors. The keynote speaker is Courtney Maum, author of five books, including Year of the Horses, the groundbreaking publishing guide Before and After the Book Deal, and Touch, among others.

The conference also includes a Friday night welcome party at WWW’s locale, followed by Saturday’s informative panels, one-on-one pitches, and a wrap party. Doors to the library open for light breakfast to sign in at 8 am, and the event begins at 9 am on Saturday morning. Individual tickets for the conference only are $350 each (walk-ins accepted) tickets for the conference plus two one-on-one pitches with literary agents are $600 each (early bird discount if registered by March 31), $675 each thereafter.

The conference will include three interactive panel discussions: “Ask The Agent,” “The Road to Publication,” “Level Up your Writing Game,” moderated by Liz Matthews, Kate Schneider and Leigh Stein, respectively. In addition, there will be an inspirational talk, “Live the Process, Own the Process, Celebrate the Process,” and the keynote address by Courtney Maum.

Attendees who purchase “Conference with Pitches” tickets will have the rare opportunity to pitch their books in-person to two elite literary agents and/or small presses during one-on-one sessions. Writers with this type of ticket will be alerted to their individual meetings and the deadline for query letters prior to Pitch & Publish. The agents include: Nora Gonzalez (Gernert Agency), Sarah Landis (Sterling Lord Literistic, Inc.), Jaclyn Gilbert (Driftless Literary), Eloy Bleifuss (Jankow & Nesbit), Ayla Zuraw-Friedland (Goldin Lit,) Samantha Wilkenson (Thomson Lit. Agency), Betsey Lerner (Dunow, Carlson & Lerner,) Agents taking pitches remotely are Marin Takikawa (Friedrich Agency) and Michaela Whatnall (Dystel, Goderich & Bourret).

“Empowering writers in any and every way is what Westport Writers’ Workshop is all about, and we couldn’t be more thrilled to be joining forces with the Westport Library, Courtney Maum, Leigh Stein, and so many other passionate literary citizens and publishing insiders to deliver a day full of education, inspiration and opportunities for our community. Westport has such a rich history of supporting the arts and we are so proud to continue that legacy,” said Julie Sarkissian, Westport Writers’ Workshop Instructor

Other highlights of the daylong event include an interactive writing experience, books for sale, goodie bags, refreshments, and a literary door prize gift basket. In addition, registrants are invited to the Friday night welcome party at WWW’s studio location at 25 Sylvan Road South/Suite J, Westport.

“I wanted to say how much I enjoyed the opportunity to be part of the conference this weekend. There was so much to appreciate: the honest, kind, and informed esteemed panelists, the range of topics, the encouragement and humor, the comradeship between volunteers, writers, agents — everyone. I walked away inspired and happy, as did so many. I loved the chance to root for my fellow writers and classmates on their pitch, and loved the partnership between two of my favorite intellectual and community hubs — WWW and the Westport Library,” said 2022 conference participant, Leila Shields

Westport Writers’ Workshop is an independent literary arts center offering enriching supportive creative writing classes, as well as free literary readings to the public. The organization provides free writing workshops to underserved populations in their own communities. For more information regarding Pitch and Publish or year round workshops, visit www.westportwriters.org.

Photo shows (from left) Liz Matthews and Julie Sarkissian of Westport Writers’ Workshop.

Photo Credit: Elizabeth Foley

You're invited to train at The Golf Performance Center this summer!

kerry@ducey.org (HH) — Tue, 14 Mar 2023 09:13:29 -0400

An intensive program for the aspiring collegiate golfer looking for the right game plan to achieve their dreams.

Applications are open until April 15, 2023. Click here.

Summer at Golf Performance Center is not any ordinary golf camp, it’s an intensive program that is perfect for the aspiring collegiate golfer looking for the right game plan to achieve their dreams.

The Golf Performance Center (GPC) Summer Program is a perfect opportunity for junior athletes to receive the coaching and structure needed to play college golf and beyond.

It’s more than a golf camp, our program mirrors the schedule athletes would experience at top collegiate programs with a focus on competition, physical and mental development, tournament preparation and advanced skill development.

To provide the best possible experience for our junior athletes, spots in our summer program are extremely limited. To be considered please download and submit the application for our coaching team to review.

Applications are due April 15. Download an application HERE.

Learn more at thegolfperformancecenter.com/summer-programs

Seussical The Musical Jr. Comes to Westport's Bedford Middle School

maureenokee@gmail.com (Bedford Acting Group) — Fri, 10 Mar 2023 09:32:21 -0500

BEDFORD ACTING GROUP PROUDLY PRESENTS — "Seussical The Musical Jr." March 24th-26th.

"Think and wonder and dream far and wide as you dare"

Tickets are on sale on now at: www.bedfordactinggroup.com

Seussical Jr. inspires joy, optimism and nonsensical fun with positive messages from the world of Dr. Seuss. BAG’s spring production features some of Dr. Seuss's most beloved characters including Cat-in-the Hat, Horton the Elephant, Jojo, Gertrude McFuzz, and even an appearance from the Grinch himself!

Families with younger kids can purchase an add-on ticket to enjoy the "Saturday Matinee Pre-Show Soirée" at 2pm on March 25th. This event is selling fast and includes character meet & greet, sweet treats, crafts and more fun. We can't wait to see you at the show!

Seussical Jr. weaves a story of friendship, loyalty, and love. Despite all odds, Horton and Gertrude band together to save the Whos, free Horton, and restore peace and unity to the Jungle of Nool. Seussical Jr. teaches us the power of being unique, and the importance of fighting for your beliefs.The showtime is 1hr 20mins long including intermission and don't forget to bring cash for concessions and our Seuss fan shop!

Thank you for supporting our 6th grade cast and crew in Seussical Jr. Grab your tickets today click here.
For more information please email: bms6thgradeplay@gmail.com

Opening Night is Friday, March 24th at 7pm. Additional shows: Saturday, March 25th 3pm & 7pm and Sunday, March 26th 3pm.
Bedford Middle School Auditorium 88 North Ave, Westport, CT 06880