<p class="ql-align-center"><strong style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Creative Writing Group for Adults</strong></p><p class="ql-align-center"><strong style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Tuesdays, 10:30 AM - 12 PM</strong></p><p class="ql-align-center"><strong style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">September 17th - December 3rd</strong></p><p class="ql-align-center"><br></p><p class="ql-align-center"><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Want to exercise your brain and have fun doing it?</span></p><p class="ql-align-center"><br></p><p class="ql-align-center"><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Join our Creative Writing Group where each week you will be challenged with new and creative ideas to write about.</span></p><p class="ql-align-center"><br></p><p class="ql-align-center"><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Feedback from other writers in the class and editing of your pieces will help you to develop your own writing style.</span></p><p class="ql-align-center"><br></p><p class="ql-align-center"><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Classes will begin Tuesday, September 17th and will end on December 3rd. The class will be led by Jo Ann Francella, a columnist for The Somers Record. Class size is limited.</span></p><p class="ql-align-center"><br></p><p class="ql-align-center"><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">This class is limited to Somers Library patrons only.</span></p><p class="ql-align-center"><br></p><p class="ql-align-center"><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Dates:</span></p><p class="ql-align-center"><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">September 17 &amp; 24</span></p><p class="ql-align-center"><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">October 1, 8, 15, 22 &amp; 29</span></p><p class="ql-align-center"><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">No class November 5</span></p><p class="ql-align-center"><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">November 12, 19 &amp; 26</span></p><p class="ql-align-center"><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">December 3</span></p><p class="ql-align-center"><strong>Registration for this event opens Tuesday, September 3 at 1:00 PM.</strong></p><p class="ql-align-center"><span class="ql-cursor"></span><a href="https://somerslibrary.assabetinteractive.com/calendar/creative-writing-group-for-adults" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://somerslibrary.assabetinteractive.com/calendar/creative-writing-group-for-adults/</a></p><p><br></p>

<p>Musicals at Richter (MAR), now in its 40 th season as the longest-runningoutdoor theater in Connecticut, concludes its 2024 with “Seussical Jr.,” performed by students from its Summer Youth Musical Theater Workshop. Staged on the grounds of the</p><p>Richter Arts Center in Danbury, performances take place outdoors under the stars at 8:00 p.m. on Thursday, Friday and Saturday evening, August 15-17.</p><p><br></p><p>Horton the Elephant, the Cat in the Hat and all of your favorite Dr. Seuss characters spring to life onstage in “Seussical Jr..” a fantastical musical extravaganza from Tony-winners Lynn Ahrens and Stephen Flaherty.</p><p><br></p><p>Transporting audiences from the Jungle of Nool to the Circus McGurkus, the Cat in the Hat narrates the story of Horton the Elephant, who discovers a speck of dust containing tiny people called the Whos. Horton must protect the Whos from a world of naysayers and dangers, and he must also guard an abandoned egg that&amp;#39;s been left in his care by the irresponsible Mayzie La Bird. Although Horton faces ridicule, danger and a trial, the intrepid Gertrude McFuzz never</p><p>loses faith in him. Ultimately, the powers of friendship, loyalty, family and community are</p><p>challenged and emerge triumphant!</p><p><br></p><p>Directed by Ciara Cuneo (Patterson, NY) with music direction by Vincent Fontenelli (Danbury) and choreography by April Smith (New Fairfield), “Seussical Jr.” features a talented cast of young area performers.</p><p><br></p><p>Featured in the cast are Laila Ingio (Danbury) as The Cat in the Hat, Emma Hoffman (Brookfield) as JoJo, Mia Roche (Bethel) as Horton the Elephant and Hailey Mott (Bethel) as Gertrude McFuzz. Sofia Feliciano (Ridgefield) takes on the role of Mayzie La Bird, joined by Leah Hayes (Danbury), Zoe Morales (Danbury) and Brienna Oromaner (Bethel) as Bird Girls. Oromaner also plays Mrs. Mayor.</p><p><br></p><p>Claire Hayes (Danbury) portrays Mr. Mayor. The mischievous Wickersham Brothers are played by Catalina Alves (Danbury),, Skyler Browne (Patterson, NY), Daniela Coto-Perez (Ridgefield), Andrew Williams (Danbury) and Jake Zanotti (Danbury). Aliyah Oromaner (Bethel) portrays the opinionated Sour Kangaroo and Addie Pasko (Brookfield) takes on the roles of Judge Yertle the Turtle and The Grinch. MAR Executive Director Robert Bria makes a special appearance asVlad Vladikoff.</p><p><br></p><p>“Seussical Jr.” is performed on the outdoor stage at the Richter Arts Center (next to the Richter Park Golf Course, I-84, Exit 2), 100 Aunt Hack Road, in Danbury. Tickets for this summer youth performance cost $15 for adults, $10 for seniors/students (with I.D.) and $5 for children 10 and under, and may be purchased through the Musicals at Richter website (www.musicalsatrichter.org) or at the door. Grounds open at 7 p.m. for picnicking, with curtain at 8:00 p.m. Audience members are invited to bring their own blankets or chairs for lawn seating; a limited number of chairs are available free-of-charge. A soft drink/snack concession is on-site.</p><p><br></p><p>Now in its 40th season at Richter Park, Musicals at Richter is Connecticut’s longest-running outdoor theater. Performances take place at the Richter Arts Center (next to the Richter Park Golf Course), 100 Aunt Hack Road, in Danbury. Nestled in the hills of Western Connecticut, the Arts Center stage has served as the scenic backdrop for over 100 musicals and workshop performances produced by Musicals at Richter, as well as a professional springboard for hundreds of up-and-coming performers. Musicals at Richter is a 501 (c) (3) nonprofit organization. For further information, visit the website at<a href="http://www.musicalsatrichter.org/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"> www.musicalsatrichter.org</a>, leave a message at 203-748-6873 or e-mail <a href="mailto:info@musicalsatrichter.org." rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">info@musicalsatrichter.org.</a></p>

<p>The Danbury Hat Tricks are looking for media and game day interns for the 2024-25 season. These candidates must be available on most weekends starting in mid-October 2024 until early May 2025. Some remote and weekday opportunities are also available.</p><p>Positions available:&nbsp;</p><ul><li>Photographer</li><li>Videographer/Video Editor&nbsp;Graphic Designer&nbsp;</li><li>Social Media&nbsp;</li><li>Camera Operator</li></ul><p><br></p><p><br></p><p>Please send all application materials and questions to&nbsp;<a href="https://mailto:doug@danburyhattricks.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">doug@danburyhattricks.com</a>.</p>

<p>G.S. Gelato &amp; Desserts, Inc. is recalling a limited amount of Full Circle Market Coconutmilk Chocolate Almond Crunch Non-Dairy Frozen Dessert 1 Pint/16 ounce paper cartons, Lot 041624L2 BBD 10/15/2025, UPC 0 36800 46964 8, because it contains undeclared cashew. Lid displays “Nature’s Promise” brand Cashewmilk Chocolate Almond Crunch Non-Dairy Frozen Dessert. Carton displays “Full Circle Market” brand Coconutmilk Chocolate Almond Crunch Frozen Dessert. The ingredient list does not include cashew. People who have an allergy or severe sensitivity to cashew run the risk of serious or life-threatening allergic reactions if they consume the affected products.</p><p>The product was distributed to distribution centers carrying the Full Circle Market brand within the following states: Georgia, Massachusetts, and New York. Product was sent to retail stores located in New York, Massachusetts, Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, New Jersey, Connecticut, Rhode Island. The product was shipped between April 18, 2024. – July 11, 2024</p><p>No adverse reactions have been reported to date.</p><p>G.S. Gelato was notified by one of the retail stores that the product carton and lid stated two different products. The firm conducted an investigation which determined that a single lot of pints of cashewmilk product was dispensed into the Full Circle Market brand Coconutmilk pints during the manufacturing process.</p><p>If this product is in your possession, do not consume it if you have a cashew allergy or sensitivity. Consumers may contact Ginger Moss for disposition of the product at (850) 243-5455 Monday – Friday, 8:00am – 5:00pm CST, or via email at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:gmoss@gsgelato.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(26, 87, 173);">gmoss@gsgelato.com</a>.</p><p>This recall is being made with the knowledge of the Food and Drug Administration.</p>

<p>Westchester County Executive George Latimer held a press briefing to address the incoming storm set to impact the region. County emergency responders recommend residents set aside several days’ worth of non-perishable food, water and medicine, and keep other critical supplies on hand like flashlights and batteries in case they are stuck in their homes without power. Residents should also have a “go-bag” ready in case they are asked to evacuate on short notice during an emergency.&nbsp;</p><p><br></p><p><strong style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34);"><em>Watch the News Conference Here:</em></strong></p><p class="ql-align-center"><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NoSb0If_3EU" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong>https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NoSb0If_3EU</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Commissioner Richard G. Wishnie of the Department of Emergency Services recommended that residents create an emergency preparedness kit that includes a:</p><p>&nbsp;</p><ul><li>Gallon of water per person per day;</li><li>Three-day supply of canned, packaged or other shelf-stable, ready-to-eat food</li></ul><p> foods that can be stored, including ready-to-eat canned meats and fish, protein or fruit bars, dry cereal and granola, peanut butter, nuts, crackers and canned fruit or juice;</p><ul><li>Manual can opener and eating utensils;</li><li>Flashlights and batteries;</li><li>First aid kit;</li><li>Battery-powered or hand-crank radio.</li></ul><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Westchester County Health Department Commissioner Sherlita Amler, MD, said: “Before any major storm hits, residents should make a list of their medications, charge their cellphones and laptops, and fill their vehicle gas tanks, too. Residents with oil tanks at home should top off their tanks and tighten the cap to prevent spills. Above-ground tanks should also be strapped to a secure fixture to prevent tipping in case of flooding.”</p><p>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>Amler said food and generator safety are essential during and after any power outage or emergency. The Westchester County Health Department suggests the following tips:</p><p>&nbsp;</p><ul><li>Before a storm hits, set your refrigerator to the coldest setting to keep food fresh longer if you lose power.</li><li>Keep your refrigerator closed as much as possible. Do not assume refrigerated foods are safe.</li><li>Foods that are fully frozen are safe to use.</li><li>Foods that have warmed to room temperature for more than two hours or have come into contact with flood waters should be discarded. When in doubt, throw it out.</li><li>During a prolonged outage, discard these foods if they were not kept below 45 degrees Fahrenheit: meat, poultry, seafood, cold cuts, hot dogs, eggs, cream, sour cream, yogurt, milk, custards, puddings, soft and shredded cheeses, cut fruit, cooked vegetables, pasta, casseroles, unbaked cookie and bread dough, gravy, creamy salad dressings, fish sauces, hoisin sauce, opened spaghetti sauce and garlic in oil.</li><li>After disposing of spoiled food, disinfect the refrigerator to avoid further contamination.</li><li>Discard any cans of food that are rusted, dented or open.</li><li>If appliances are wet, turn off the electricity at the main fuse box or circuit breaker. Then, unplug appliances and let them dry out. Have appliances checked by a professional before using them again.</li><li>Storm clean-up can produce a great deal of garbage, which invites insects and rodents. Store your garbage in watertight, rodent/insect-proof containers with tight-fitting covers.</li></ul><p> &nbsp;</p><p>Commissioner Terrance Raynor of the Department of Public Safety reminded motorists to stay off the roads unless absolutely necessary during severe weather.&nbsp;Flash-flooding can quickly swamp vehicles and put motorists in significant danger.</p><p> &nbsp;</p><p>Raynor said: “Over the years, County Police officers have responded to rescue numerous motorists who have been stranded in rising water when their cars have stalled on flooded roadways.&nbsp;In addition to likely damaging your vehicle, you may also be putting your life at risk.”</p><p> &nbsp;</p><p>Residents and business owners with generators are reminded of the following safety tips:</p><ul><li>Never run a generator in a basement, garage, porch or carport. Generators produce carbon monoxide that can quickly be lethal indoors.&nbsp;Only operate a generator outdoors and away from open windows.</li><li>Do not exceed the rated capacity of your generator. Overloading your generator can damage it and any appliances connected to it. Fire may result.</li><li>If your generator has a detachable fuel tank, remove it before refilling. If this is not possible, shut off the generator and let it cool before refilling.</li></ul><p>If you lose power, call Con Edison or NYS Electric and Gas directly. The phone numbers are:&nbsp;<a href="http://coned.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">Con Ed</a>&nbsp;power outage or gas and electrical service problems: (800) 75-CONED;&nbsp;<a href="http://www.nyseg.com/Outages/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">NYSEG</a>&nbsp;electricity power outage: (800) 572-1131; NYSEG gas power outage: (800) 572-1121.</p><p>Wishnie said families should also consider what additional preparations to make for people with special needs or who care for the elderly, infants or pets. Family members also should plan for how they will communicate if local phone service is not available or is overwhelmed by high demand.</p><p>Practical tips on these and other topics can be found at:&nbsp;<a href="https://emergencyservices.westchestergov.com/severe-weather" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">https://emergencyservices.</a><a href="westchestergov.com/severe-" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">westchestergov.com/severe-</a><a href="https://emergencyservices.westchestergov.com/severe-weather" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">weather</a></p><p>or&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ready.gov/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">https://www.ready.gov/</a></p>

<p>Musicals at Richter (MAR), celebrating its 40th season as the longest-running outdoor theater in Connecticut, fires on all cylinders with its 2024 offering of “Grease,” playing July 26 to August 10. Featuring a live band and a cast of talented local actors, performances take place outdoors under the stars at the Richter Arts Center, 100 Aunt Hack Road, in Danbury, adjacent to the Richter Park Public Golf Course, just off I-84, Exit 2.</p><p>MAR’s production of “Grease” is a high-energy, foot-tapping delight. The talented cast, led by Eli Foodman as Danny Zuko and Rosalie Peña as Sandy Dumbrowski, captivated the sold-out audience from start to finish on the Saturday evening I attended.</p><p>This iconic show, conjured in an idealized 1959, with book, music and lyrics by Jim Jacobs and Warren Casey, evokes the look and sound of the 1950s, featuring the beloved music generations have re-discovered time and time again</p><p>&nbsp;“Grease” introduces us to Rydell High's senior class of 1959: with the “greaser “Burger Palace Boys" and their boos; the "Pink Ladies" decked out in bobby sox and pedal pushers.&nbsp;&nbsp;Head "greaser" Danny Zuko and new (good) girl Sandy Dumbrowski try to reignite the romance of their Summer, with the arc of action pitted against them once away from the beach, enmeshed in the social politics and personalities of high school.</p><p>A show like “Grease” sinks or swims on the back of its ensemble. You can have the best stars in the world, but if the ensemble is lacking, the show will fall flat. Through the expert captaining of this production by director Jessica Smith and the detailed choreography by Melissa Arizzi, the ensemble, both teen and adult, moved this show forward seamlessly with infectious energy. Hats off to Isabella Andrade, Olivia Chila, Remy Chila, Gabriella DeNicola, Lucia Eklund, Patrick Garcia, Dayo Garritano, Sydney Mann, Katie Paniccia, Chloe Petzold, Nomita Ramchandani, Sedona Taylor, Emily Walsh, Melisa Garcia, Carolyn McCarthy, Walter Ruszczyk.</p><p>Mr Foodman’s Danny sings and dances through the show with a gentleness not only of demeanor, but also vocally, experienced best in his number “Alone at a Drive-in Movie,” giving us a new take on an old trope.</p><p>Ms Peña’s Sandy evoked a sweet naiveté, infused with grace and a big, strong voice, whether singing in “Summer Lovin’”with the entire cast, or in the sensitive “It’s Raining on Prom Night “performed in duet with accomplished Sarah Bollacke as the Radio Voice</p><p>The supporting cast, both adult and teen, brought an incredible level of talent and enthusiasm to the stage.</p><p>The effervescent “Pink Ladies” were led by the powerhouse vocals of Jazzy Cores as Rizzo, most notably on “There Are Worse Things I Could Do,” which brought the house down. Jennifer Analise Robert’s Marty, shines on the great classic “Freddy My Love,” and Emma Lubber’s Jan is hilarious in the duet “Mooning” with Roger, adroitly executed by Robert Fontenelli. Last but certainly not least of the “Pink Ladies” is Daisy Stotts Frenchy, our lovable, beauty disaster, whose duet with talented “Teen Angel “Helen Seda, made us all want to run up and give her a hug.</p><p>The charismatic performance of Dominic Chila as Kenickie, especially in the well-known romp, “Greased Lightening,” serves as the focal point of the group of misfits known as the “Burger Palace Boys.” Christian Eklund’s Doody vocally soars, best featured in his duets with the afore mentioned Robert Fontenelli’s Roger, in an Everly brothers nod “Rock ‘N’ Roll Party Queen.” Rounding out the Burger Palace Boy’s is Sonny Latierri, comically portrayed by Andrew Neil</p><p>And what high school would be complete without it’s “Nerd” and “Goody Goody” Head Cheerleader? Rydell High is no exception, with JP Akter nailing it as Eugene Florczyk&nbsp;and Molly Tarnowski as annoyingly positive Patty Simcox</p><p>I challenge you to sit still when the high octane “Hop” number “Born to Hand Jive” kicks off, led by an oily Nicholas Eklund’s Johnny Casino and featuring a very talented April Smith as Cha-Cha, with the entire cast dancing their hearts out. Presiding over the hop, is the comically slick Vince Fontaine, portrayed by Mensah Robinson, who also is featured throughout as the voice on the radio. Rounding out the cast is the stoic Miss Lynch, portrayed by Virginia Ruszczyk</p><p>Director Jessica Smith, Choreographer Melissa Arizzi, and Musical Director Andrew Gadwah deserve immense credit for creating a seamless and exhilarating production. The show's energy was palpable, and the cast clearly poured their hearts into every number. The functional set design and costumes effectively transported the audience back to the 1950s without detracting from the performances.</p><p>Overall, Grease at Musicals at Richter is a must-see for fans of the classic musical. The talented cast, combined with the deft direction and choreography, create a truly unforgettable experience.</p><p>Performances for “Grease” are Friday-Sunday evenings at 8 PM, with specially discounted performances on Thursday August 1 and 8.&nbsp;Grounds at Richter Arts Center open at 7:00 p.m. for picnicking, with the show at 8:00 p.m.&nbsp;</p><p>Tickets are $30 for adults, $25 for seniors (65+) and students (with ID), and $15 for children 10 and under.&nbsp;For the Thursday performances (August 1 and 8), tickets are $25 for adults, $20 for seniors and students and $10 for children 10 and under.&nbsp;</p><p>Audience members are encouraged to bring chairs and blankets for lawn seating. A limited number of chairs are available free of charge at the concession area, and a snack/soft drink concession is on site. Dress in layers as it will get chilly as the sun goes down, and a bit of bug spray would also be useful, it is the northeast in August.</p><p>New this year, two pairs of comfortable VIP front row seats will be available at each performance. The tickets cost $150 per pair, which includes a $90 tax-deductible donation to support MAR’s Renaissance of Richter stage and facility improvement campaign</p><p>“Grease,” playing July 26 to August 10. outdoors under the stars at the Richter Arts Center, 100 Aunt Hack Road, in Danbury, adjacent to the Richter Park Public Golf Course, just off I-84, Exit 2.</p><p><a href="https://www.musicalsatrichter.org" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.musicalsatrichter.org/</a></p><p>________________</p><p><span style="color: rgb(5, 5, 5);">Photo Credit: </span><span style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34);">&nbsp;David Henningsen Photography.</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34);"></span><span style="color: rgb(5, 5, 5);">The moves are on when the students hit the dance floor in&nbsp;"Grease,"&nbsp;</span><span style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34);">the beloved rock'n'roll musical about 1950s high school life now playing through August 10 at Musicals at Richter in Danbury.&nbsp;&nbsp;S</span><span style="color: rgb(5, 5, 5);">taged on the grounds of the Richter Arts Center (next to Richter Park Golf Course), 100 Aunt Hack Road, in Danbury, performances take place outdoors under the stars Friday through Sunday evenings, with additional specially discounted performances on Thursdays August 1 and 8.&nbsp;Grounds at Richter Arts Center open at 7:00 p.m. for picnicking, with the show at 8:00 p.m. Tickets/info:&nbsp;</span><a href="http://musicalsatrichter.org/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">musicalsatrichter.org</a></p>