<p class="ql-align-center"><strong style="color: rgb(24, 25, 26);">FC Buzz Weekend December 20-22</strong></p><p>HamletHub is proud to partner with the Cultural Alliance of Fairfield County and FCBuzz to Elevate Arts and Culture in Fairfield County! Each week, look for a listing of weekend events and activities. The Cultural Alliance of Fairfield County celebrates the vibrancy and diversity of the arts and culture across 15 towns in coastal Fairfield County. Sign up to receive a free eBuzz newsletter with top picks and spotlight events from the hundreds of events posted on FCBuzz.</p><p><a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/events/polar-express-night" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong>Polar Express Night</strong></a></p><p><strong>Wilton Historical Society</strong></p><p>Friday Dec 20, 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm</p><p>All aboard for an enchanting evening! The Wilton Historical Society invites families to join them for Polar Express Night, a special event filled with holiday cheer and unforgettable experiences. Guests will gather around for a cozy reading of this timeless children’s classic, bringing the story to life in a festive setting. After the story, craft your own keepsake “Believe” Bell Ornament to take home as a memory of this special night, and remember as you ring the bell you can keep the spirit of the holidays alive!</p><p><a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/events/1940s-christmas-by-candlelight-tours-of-the-coley-house-13b9d" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong>1940s Christmas by Candlelight Tours of the Coley House</strong></a></p><p><strong>Weston History &amp; Culture Center</strong></p><p>Friday Dec 20, 6:00 pm - 7:00 pm</p><p>Explore a World War II home front Christmas at the Coley House. With only holiday lights and candlelight, take a guided tour through this mid-19th century farmhouse, decorated as it would have been during the 1940s, when the last three generations of the Coley family occupied the home. View authentic 1930s and 1940s holiday decorations. Learn how World War II impacted holiday celebrations in America. Taste wartime Holiday ration recipes, and listen to original radio broadcasts featuring Bing Crosby and Judy Garland, all by candlelight.</p><p><a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/events/jingle-all-the-way-with-music-on-the-hill" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong>Jingle All the Way with Music on the Hill</strong></a></p><p><strong>Wilton Historical Society</strong></p><p>Saturday Dec 21, 2:00 pm - 3:00 pm</p><p>Join Music on the Hill Holiday Handbells and Children’s Chorus for a festive singalong and jingle bell bracelet craft. Perfect for all ages!</p><p><a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/events/irving-berlin-s-white-christmas-the-musical-e34bd" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong>Irving Berlin's White Christmas The Musical</strong></a></p><p><strong>Music Theatre of CT</strong></p><p>Sunday Dec 22, 2:00 pm - 3:30 pm</p><p>White Christmas follows WWII veterans Bob Wallace and Phil Davis, a successful song-and-dance duo who meet the talented Haynes sisters, Betty and Judy. The men follow the sisters to their holiday show at a Vermont inn, only to discover it's owned by their former commander, General Waverley, who’s struggling to keep it afloat. To help, they plan a spectacular show with the sisters and the inn’s staff, sparking romance and holiday cheer along the way. Featuring Irving Berlin classics like “Blue Skies,” “I Love a Piano,” and the beloved “White Christmas,” this heartwarming musical is a festive celebration of love and friendship for all ages.</p><p><a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/events/let-s-celebrate-worldwide-3ae2b" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong>Let's Celebrate! Worldwide</strong></a></p><p><strong>Stepping Stones Museum for Children</strong></p><p>Sunday Dec 22, 9:00 am - 5:00 pm</p><p>It’s the most wonderful time of the year! A joyful exploration of holiday traditions from around the globe. Experience the warmth of Thanksgiving through giving and gathering, discover the wonder of international fables and folktales and enjoy a special countdown to 2025 as we learn how other cultures ring in the new year.</p><p><a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/events/16th-annual-greenwich-reindeer-festival-santa-s-workshop-presented-by-jenny-allen-at-compass-real-estate-07c96" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong>16th Annual Greenwich Reindeer Festival &amp; Santa’s Workshop</strong></a></p><p><strong>Sam Bridge Nursery &amp; Greenhouses</strong></p><p>Sunday Dec 22, 9:00 am - 6:00 pm</p><p>The cherished town tradition continues for the sixteenth consecutive year at this expansive nursery where visitors can have their photo taken with Santa, meet the reindeer and also enjoy Santa’s Workshop. Guests can enjoy the “Reindeer Coloring Station" and "Letter Writing to Santa Station" while waiting in line for their photo with Santa. A portion of all photos with Santa will be donated to Kids In Crisis, a non-profit organization based in Greenwich, but serves all of Connecticut. A Kids In Crisis Giving Tree will also be available for people to support their important mission.</p><p><a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/events/rowayton-arts-center-holiday-gift-show-01c37" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong>Holiday Gift Show</strong></a></p><p><strong>Rowayton Arts Center</strong></p><p>Sunday Dec 22, 12:00 pm - 5:00 pm</p><p>The annual Holiday Gift Show at the Rowayton Arts Center (RAC) transforms the gallery into a shopping wonderland with original, handcrafted items and artwork from November 29 to December 24. Shop one-of-a-kind gifts by local artists: original cards, prints, paintings, ornaments, jewelry, ceramics, and knitted items galore by over 50 artists/artisans. Proceeds from the Holiday Gift Show are used to support RAC and its educational outreach.</p><p>See these and discover hundreds more events on the&nbsp;<a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(2, 177, 151);">FCBUZZ EVENTS</a>&nbsp;page at&nbsp;<a href="https://culturalalliancefc.org/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(2, 177, 151);">https://culturalalliancefc.org</a>&nbsp;Sign up for the&nbsp;<a href="https://culturalalliancefc.org/resources/newsletter-sign-up/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(2, 177, 151);">Cultural Alliance eBuzz</a>&nbsp;to receive top picks and spotlights each week in your inbox.</p>

<p class="ql-align-justify">Governor Ned Lamont today announced that due to a weather forecast indicating that Connecticut will experience a period of extremely cold conditions over the next several days, he is directing the state’s severe cold weather protocol to go into effect beginning at 12:00 p.m. on Saturday, December 21, 2024, and remaining in effect through 12:00 p.m. on Tuesday, December 24, 2024.</p><p class="ql-align-justify">This is the first time the protocol has been activated this season. Its purpose is to ensure that the most vulnerable populations receive protection from the severe cold, which could be life threatening if exposed to the elements for extended periods of time. While enacted, a system is set up for state agencies and municipalities to coordinate with United Way 2-1-1 and Connecticut’s network of shelters to make sure that anyone in need can receive shelter from the outdoors, including transportation to shelters.</p><p class="ql-align-justify">Anyone in need of shelter is urged to call 2-1-1 to get connected to these services or visit&nbsp;<a href="https://officeofthegovernor.cmail19.com/t/j-l-gukdrdt-tlluktiylh-u/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 113, 187);"><strong>211ct.org</strong></a>&nbsp;to view a list of locations. Transportation can be provided if necessary.</p><p class="ql-align-justify">“Beginning this weekend and continuing through the first couple days of next week, Connecticut will experience the first blast of arctic air of the season with temperatures dropping into the single digits at night and wind gusts up to 30 miles per hour at times,”&nbsp;<strong>Governor Lamont said</strong>. “Being outdoors for extended periods in these extreme conditions is not only dangerous but it can be fatal. Shelters and warming centers are available across Connecticut. Anyone in need of a safe place to stay warm is urged to call 2-1-1 to be directed to a nearby location, or check the list of locations online at&nbsp;<a href="https://officeofthegovernor.cmail19.com/t/j-l-gukdrdt-tlluktiylh-o/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 113, 187);"><strong>211ct.org</strong></a>. Transportation to a shelter or warming center can also be provided to anyone in need. Leaving pets outdoors in these frigid conditions can also be dangerous, and it is strongly advised to bring your pets indoors.”</p><p class="ql-align-justify">The following actions are implemented while the protocol is enacted:</p><ul><li class="ql-align-justify">The Connecticut Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection’s Division of Emergency Management and Homeland Security uses its WebEOC communications network, which is an internet-based system that enables local, regional, and state emergency management officials and first responders to share up-to-date information about a variety of situations and conditions. The system is used to monitor capacity at shelters across the state, enabling 2-1-1 to act as a clearinghouse to assist in finding shelter space for those who need it. Local officials, working through WebEOC, can alert 2-1-1 and the state when they open temporary shelters or warming centers.</li><li class="ql-align-justify">The Connecticut Department of Social Services, Connecticut Department of Housing, and Connecticut Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services coordinate with 2-1-1 and the Connecticut Coalition to End Homelessness, along with community-based providers, to provide transportation for people seeking shelter.</li></ul><p class="ql-align-justify">For emergency management news and resources, visit the state’s CT<em>Prepares</em>&nbsp;website at&nbsp;<a href="https://officeofthegovernor.cmail19.com/t/j-l-gukdrdt-tlluktiylh-b/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 113, 187);"><strong>ct.gov/ctprepares</strong></a>.</p>

<p><a href="https://officeofthegovernor.cmail19.com/t/j-l-gudddhy-tlluktiylh-k/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(10, 10, 10);"><strong>Governor Lamont Announces Nearly 23,000 Connecticut Residents Will Have $30 Million in Medical Debt Erased Under First Round of State’s Newly Launched Partnership With Nonprofit</strong></a></p><p class="ql-align-justify">Governor Ned Lamont today announced that nearly 23,000 Connecticut residents who have medical debt will be notified in the coming days that some or all of that debt has been eliminated under the first round of a major initiative his administration launched through a partnership with the national nonprofit organization&nbsp;<a href="https://officeofthegovernor.cmail19.com/t/j-l-gudddhy-tlluktiylh-u/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 113, 187);"><strong>Undue Medical Debt</strong></a>.</p><p class="ql-align-justify">The nonprofit contracts with state and local governments and leverages public investments to negotiate with hospitals and other providers on the elimination of large, bundled portfolios of qualifying medical debt owed by patients whose income is at or below four times (400%) the federal poverty level or who have medical debt that is 5% or more of their income. (The current federal poverty level is an annual income at or below $31,200 for a family of four.) Because these medical debts are acquired in bulk and belong to those least able to pay, they cost a fraction of their face value.</p><p class="ql-align-justify">Under this first round, the Lamont administration invested approximately $100,000 from the state’s allocation of American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding, and Undue Medical Debt was able to negotiate with a secondary market partner (i.e. collections agency) and a national provider to acquire approximately $30 million in qualifying medical debt for Connecticut residents.</p><p class="ql-align-justify">There is no application process for this medical debt relief and it cannot be requested. Instead, residents whose debt has been identified for relief will receive a branded letter from Undue Medical Debt indicating which debt or debts have been eliminated. Letters under this first round will be delivered to Connecticut residents through the U.S. mail beginning December 23, 2024.</p><p class="ql-align-justify"><strong>**<em>Download</em>: To view an example of the letter individuals will begin receiving in the coming days,&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://officeofthegovernor.cmail19.com/t/j-l-gudddhy-tlluktiylh-o/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 113, 187);"><strong>click here</strong></a><strong>.</strong></p><p class="ql-align-justify">Governor Lamont said that his administration intends on continuing to partner with Undue Medical Debt to enact further rounds of medical debt elimination. The governor and the Connecticut General Assembly worked together to make $6.5 million in ARPA funding available for this initiative.</p><p class="ql-align-justify">In addition to this initiative, Governor Lamont&nbsp;<a href="https://officeofthegovernor.cmail19.com/t/j-l-gudddhy-tlluktiylh-b/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 113, 187);"><strong>recently signed legislation</strong></a>&nbsp;enacting a law that prohibits health care providers and hospitals in Connecticut from reporting a person’s medical debt to credit rating agencies for use in credit reports. That new law – which went into effect on July 1, 2024 – was enacted to protect patients who may have otherwise been apprehensive about seeking essential medical care for fear that any inability to pay could negatively impact their credit rating.</p>

<p class="ql-align-center"><strong>FC Buzz Weekend December 13-14</strong></p><p>HamletHub is proud to partner with the Cultural Alliance of Fairfield County and FCBuzz to Elevate Arts and Culture in Fairfield County! Each week, look for a listing of weekend events and activities. The Cultural Alliance of Fairfield County celebrates the vibrancy and diversity of the arts and culture across 15 towns in coastal Fairfield County. Sign up to receive a free eBuzz newsletter with top picks and spotlight events from the hundreds of events posted on FCBuzz.</p><p><a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/events/silvermine-holiday-art-craft-sale-7e990" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong>Silvermine Holiday Art &amp; Craft Sale</strong></a></p><p><strong>Silvermine Galleries</strong></p><p>Friday Dec 13, 5:30 pm - 8:30 pm</p><p>All art and crafts for sale are created by Silvermine School of Art Adult Students and Silvermine Instructors. You will find ceramics, paintings, sculptures, prints, jewelry, drawings, photographs, fiber arts, cards, ornaments, and more at affordable prices to fit every budget.</p><p><a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/events/holiday-shop-n-stroll-at-ct-audubon-in-fairfield" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong>Holiday Shop 'N Stroll</strong></a></p><p><strong>Connecticut Audubon Society Fairfield Nature Center</strong></p><p>Saturday Dec 14, 11:00 am - 3:00 pm</p><p>Shop for nature-inspired gifts from local artisan vendors while delighting in the joyous sounds of acapella holiday carols. Enjoy a brisk walk on the Sanctuary trails, then grab a cheesy bite from the Melt Mobile Food Truck.</p><p><a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/events/gbs-s-final-candidate-leads-12-14-holiday-show-daughter-of-leonard-bernstein-jamie-narrates-signs-books" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong>GBS's Final Candidate Leads Holiday Show</strong></a></p><p><strong>The Klein Memorial Auditorium</strong></p><p>Saturday Dec 14, 7:30 pm - 11:00 pm</p><p>After an exhaustive search over two seasons, GBS is down to the wire as the competition to become the next Music Director ends. Maestro Waddell will present a family-friendly “concert of storytelling,” highlighted by some of the greatest stories in music, including Prokofiev’s Peter and the Wolf narrated by special guest Jamie Bernstein, daughter of the late great Leonard Bernstein. GBS is proud to feature photos of Mexican wolves during the narration, provided by Jack Bradley, a photographer for Connecticut's Beardsley Zoo.</p><p><a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/events/winter-light-reception-at-art-place-gallery" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong>Winter Light Reception</strong></a></p><p><strong>Art/Place Gallery</strong></p><p>Sunday Dec 15, 2:30 pm - 4:30 pm</p><p>This is an All-Member show that includes work in a variety of mediums, sizes, and interpretations of the theme.</p><p><a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/events/pequot-library-and-shakespeare-on-the-sound-present-a-christmas-carol" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong>Shakespeare on the Sound Present: A Christmas Carol</strong></a></p><p><strong>Pequot Library</strong></p><p>Sunday Dec 15, 3:00 pm - 5:00 pm</p><p>Join Pequot Library and Shakespeare on the Sound for drinks and delight at our joint fundraiser, culminating in a dramatic reading of Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol. Year after year, the trained actors from Shakespeare on the Sound delight audience members young and old with the quintessential tale of holiday spirit.</p><p><a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/events/odysseys-a-musical-journey-through-the-world-of-video-games" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong>Odysseys: A musical journey through the world of video games</strong></a></p><p><strong>Wilton Presbyterian Church</strong></p><p>Sunday Dec 15, 3:00 pm - 4:00 pm</p><p>The Norwalk Gamer Symphony Orchestra takes you on a journey through some of video game's most expansive and memorable worlds in our next show, Odysseys. Join us as we quest in search of Zanarkand (Final Fantasy X, 2001), trample a path on the moon (DuckTales, 1989) and traverse the desert wastelands of Journey's (2012) barren but provocative landscape. We hope you can join us for this fun evening of music and exploration! For more information, go to<a href="http://www.norwalkgso.org/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(2, 177, 151);">&nbsp;www.norwalkgso.org</a></p><p><a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/events/yuletide-harmonies" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong>Yuletide Harmonies</strong></a></p><p><strong>Norwalk Concert Hall</strong></p><p>Sunday Dec 15, 4:00 pm - 6:00 pm</p><p>The Fairfield County Chorale (FCC) will present a joyous program of holiday music on December 15 at Norwalk Concert Hall. The Chorale launches its 62nd season with an intriguing program reaching from the Baroque to the 20th century. Similarly, the musical selections were composed in countries across the western world – from Germany to Hungary to the UK. Music Director David Rosenmeyer will conduct.</p><p><a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/events/a-service-of-nine-lessons-and-carols" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong>A Service of Nine Lessons and Carols</strong></a></p><p><strong>St. Mark's Episcopal Church</strong></p><p>Sunday Dec 15, 5:00 pm - 6:30 pm</p><p>Now a perennial favorite, uniting the St. Mark’s Choir, Choristers, and Soloists, the story of our redemption is told – both in word and song – from the story of Adam and Eve to the arrival of the Magi at the Manger. Carols and hymns are sung by the Choir and by all. Conducted by the Director of Music Ned Tipton. Dr. Michael Burnette will accompany the service.</p><p><a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/events/brass-and-organ-christmas-concert" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong>Brass and Organ Christmas Concert</strong></a></p><p><strong>First Presbyterian Church</strong></p><p>Sunday Dec 15, 7:30 pm - 9:00 pm</p><p>First Presbyterian Church of Stamford invites you to immerse yourself in the Christmas sound of four trumpets, two French horns, 3 trombones, 1 tuba, 2 percussionists, and an organ with over 4000 pipes. Minister of Music Kevin Bailey and the New York Symphonic Brass present the 34th annual Brass and Organ concert. Suggested donation of $25 for the freewill offering.</p><p>See these and discover hundreds more events on the&nbsp;<a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(2, 177, 151);">FCBUZZ EVENTS</a>&nbsp;page at&nbsp;<a href="https://culturalalliancefc.org/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(2, 177, 151);">https://culturalalliancefc.org</a>&nbsp;Sign up for the&nbsp;<a href="https://culturalalliancefc.org/resources/newsletter-sign-up/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(2, 177, 151);">Cultural Alliance eBuzz</a>&nbsp;to receive top picks and spotlights each week in your inbox.</p>

<p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">MAYOR’S UPDATES</span></p><ul><li><span style="background-color: transparent;">Walk-in Permitting Center: I joined my team for the opening of the city’s walk-in permitting center, a dedicated space located on the 7th floor of the Government Center which allows residents to get assistance with permits for residential and minor commercial projects. Since launching, it has significantly reduced wait times, reinforcing our commitment to efficient, accessible, and responsive city services. Learn more </span><a href="https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.stamfordct.gov%2Fgovernment%2Fmayor-s-office%2Fwalk-in-permitting%23!%2F/1/01000193c1a51385-189f98ec-c5c6-4454-8b71-e8aca3a6c806-000000/9LhWaF5myZzguHl8AlaEf-dNYlMGDEuWoCk1DJxDaQU=383" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">here</a><span style="background-color: transparent;">.</span></li><li><span style="background-color: transparent;">West Glen Drive and Lakeside Drive Bridges Are Now Open! A huge thank you to all the city and state officials, stakeholders, and teams who dedicated their time and expertise to make these projects a reality. Your hard work ensures these bridges will benefit our residents for years to come!</span></li><li><span style="background-color: transparent;">Welcome, Whole Foods Market: I was thrilled to attend the opening of Whole Foods Market at 110 High Ridge Road. This 44,648-square-foot store has created 180 jobs, and they are already giving back by partnering with New Covenant House and the Food Bank of Lower Fairfield County. Congratulations to the team on a fantastic opening day!</span></li><li><span style="background-color: transparent;">Stamford Health Adult Outpatient Center: I was honored to join the Stamford Health team to celebrate the opening of their first adult outpatient behavioral health clinic at the Tully Center. This center provides critical mental health services for our community. We’re grateful for Stamford Health’s continued investment in top-quality care in Fairfield County and beyond.</span></li></ul><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">&nbsp;CITY NEWS</span></p><ul><li><span style="background-color: transparent;">Stamford Mural Project Opportunity: The Stamford Arts &amp; Culture Commission has received a National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) grant to create a mural on the new Stamford Transportation Center parking garage! Artists or teams are invited to design and paint a mural reflecting Stamford’s landmarks, culture, abstract art, or rail transportation. The deadline to apply is Sunday, December 15 at 11:59 PM. Learn more and apply </span><a href="https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.stamfordct.gov%2Fgovernment%2Fboards-commissions%2Farts-culture-commission%2Fstamford-transportation-center-mural-project%3Ffbclid=IwY2xjawG_9vpleHRuA2FlbQIxMAABHdMOam8wlwpqH9YO3ulHoLVUoZTnlOXWIeoZ5nWqSPLQ5Wws3GMtWb3ZEw_aem_-0-nOTEjJeuOwJnPNS_QCQ/1/01000193c1a51385-189f98ec-c5c6-4454-8b71-e8aca3a6c806-000000/T5C41FK58MU4_rxUgeOeDNxr8N-8AO3kO6M9sikAb4o=383" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">here</a><span style="background-color: transparent;">.</span></li><li><span style="background-color: transparent;">December Arts &amp; Culture Guide: The City of Stamford and the Stamford Arts and Culture Commission are excited to announce, “Stamford Spotlight: A Celebration of Arts and Culture.” This guide highlights upcoming arts and cultural events in Stamford. Be sure to stop by and support our local organizations! Click </span><a href="https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.stamfordct.gov%2Fhome%2Fshowpublisheddocument%2F39248%2F638687366514800000/1/01000193c1a51385-189f98ec-c5c6-4454-8b71-e8aca3a6c806-000000/nLoO0BxkNcU_4wlgh2sVOzWBKsCwYjX8FrpegDYDRYk=383" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">here</a><span style="background-color: transparent;"> to view the December Guide.</span></li><li><span style="background-color: transparent;">Shop Local Fall Guide: We are excited to launch the City of Stamford's Fall Shop Local Guide! We encourage residents to use the guide during the fall season to shop locally and support small businesses. To see the list click </span><a href="https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fshare%2Fp%2Ft6zBA86exnN6kiG7%2F%3Fmibextid=WC7FNe/1/01000193c1a51385-189f98ec-c5c6-4454-8b71-e8aca3a6c806-000000/jHHIHO-PX9EBsirJAjiwolufV7EERyDzVxTlvB0gnvU=383" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">here</a><span style="background-color: transparent;">. </span></li><li><span style="background-color: transparent;">Parking Garage Demolition: The Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) has initiated the demolition of the Stamford Transportation Center's 1985 Parking Garage and Pedestrian Bridge. For further details, click </span><a href="https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fportal.ct.gov%2Fdot%2Fprojects%2F0301-0513-stcgaragedemo-progsched/1/01000193c1a51385-189f98ec-c5c6-4454-8b71-e8aca3a6c806-000000/SJ0Y-iqNEaT6gCH8xGExumRiiI6d5QAONGngVHZqF0A=383" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">here</a><span style="background-color: transparent;">.</span></li><li><span style="background-color: transparent;">Stamford 2035: The City of Stamford is excited to launch the Stamford 2035 Comprehensive Plan, a once-in-a-decade opportunity to assess the city's current state and explore key questions about our future! This plan will guide Stamford’s development through 2035, focusing on crucial topics like sustainability, resilience, diversity, equity, inclusion, housing, economic growth, mobility, and infrastructure. Throughout the 10-month process, you’ll have the chance to share your vision for Stamford by participating in public meetings, workshops, surveys, and discussions with our planning team. assessment in 2022.</span></li><li><span style="background-color: transparent;">Stamford Transportation Center Master Plan: Our administration has been meeting with the Connecticut Department of Transportation and city transportation officials to continue to make progress on the Stamford Train Station Master Plan. </span></li></ul><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">CITY EVENTS</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Seniors are often the targets for cyber criminals looking to steal money, information, and more. As time goes on, the threat become more complex and lifelike. Learn what you can do to stay safe and what threats to avoid. Sign up by calling the Senior Center at 203-977-5151 to attend in person or join via zoom at:</span><a href="https://us02web.zoom.us/j/2039775151." rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;"> https://us02web.zoom.us/j/2039775151.</a><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;"> The English session will take place at 2:00 pm and the Spanish session will take place at 10:00 am.</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Las personas mayores suelen ser el objetivo de los ciberdelincuentes que buscan robar dinero, información y mucho más. A medida que pasa el tiempo, las amenazas se vuelven más complejas y realistas, lo que las hace aún más difíciles de tratar. Aprenda qué puede hacer para mantenerse a salvo y qué amenazas debe evitar. Conozca a los expertos del centro para la seguridad en internet (CIS): Martes, 17 de Diciembre – 10 de la mañana. Llame al 203-977-5151 para registrarse.&nbsp;</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">RESOURCES FOR RESIDENTS</span></p><ul><li><span style="background-color: transparent;">Boards and Commissions: Are you a Stamford resident interested in serving on a City Board or Commission? Click </span><a href="https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.stamfordct.gov%2Fgovernment%2Fboards-commissions%23!%2F/1/01000193c1a51385-189f98ec-c5c6-4454-8b71-e8aca3a6c806-000000/Up-gqafp90GIkCCikDQaSGNZdCt-pCjA3Rz3et0fV8k=383" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">here</a><span style="background-color: transparent;"> to learn more about serving.</span></li></ul><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Stamford Kindness Project 2024</span></p><ul><li><span style="background-color: transparent;">"Earlier this month, I went to drop off some Thanksgiving dry cleaning at Sea Breeze. I got into some chit-chat with the woman who always helps me there and we started discussing how wonderful the bread smelled from Cobs bread nearby. I asked her which bread was her favorite. Cobs was my next stop for my weekly Friday challah. I asked for my challah and also for the dry cleaner's favorite bread. The employee was surprised I was getting an additional bread other than my weekly challah, so I shared that I was getting the bread to drop it off at the dry cleaner as a surprise treat. I pulled out my credit card to pay for my challah and the other bread. The employee said it was all her treat for the day. She was touched by the gesture I was making.&nbsp;I left thanking her, smiling and said, "I'll get you back soon." After I dropped off the bread to the cleaner and got a huge appreciation hug from her, I headed to Starbucks. I got a gift card for the employee who helped me at Cobs bread and wrote #stamfordkindnessproject on the envelope. I swung by to drop it off and she was so excited.&nbsp;It was a kindness domino effect! So grateful for our community!" - Shana Yakubovich&nbsp;</span></li></ul><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Employment Opportunities in the City</span></p><ul><li><a href="https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.stamfordct.gov%2Fgovernment%2Fhuman-resources%2Fcity-jobs/1/01000193c1a51385-189f98ec-c5c6-4454-8b71-e8aca3a6c806-000000/CcbEKIzqjR5TebCiqJGvwMv5Lq9wRMPYQeKFCA2c3zk=383" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204); background-color: transparent;">Open positions with City of Stamford</a></li><li><span style="background-color: transparent;">Traffic</span></li><li><span style="background-color: transparent;">Mill Road Bridge: The Mill Road bridge near Old Long Ridge Road is open to one lane vehicular traffic.&nbsp;Residents can click </span><a href="https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.stamfordct.gov%2Fgovernment%2Foperations%2Fengineering-department%2Fcapital-projects%2Fmill-road-bridge%23!%2F/1/01000193c1a51385-189f98ec-c5c6-4454-8b71-e8aca3a6c806-000000/z5oQy1hYw1y1JVcEG7weKXEZ70wp-lr0BVJXU2DQZi0=383" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">here </a><span style="background-color: transparent;">for updates.</span></li><li><span style="background-color: transparent;">Cedar Heights Bridge Replacement: The Cedar Heights Bridge is currently closed and is scheduled to be reopened in April 2025. Residents are encouraged to check </span><a href="https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.stamfordct.gov%2Fgovernment%2Foperations%2Fengineering-department%2Fcapital-projects%2Fcedar-heights-road-bridge-replacement/1/01000193c1a51385-189f98ec-c5c6-4454-8b71-e8aca3a6c806-000000/7KVRp-vaR7-vVr9-wFH9ApTfVTYw8JhRWRq0bEc6tII=383" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">here </a><span style="background-color: transparent;">for more information.</span></li><li><span style="background-color: transparent;">Hunting Ridge Road Bridge Replacement: The Hunting Ridge Road Bridge is currently closed for replacement. A detour route is in effect, with the project scheduled to be completed in June 2025. More information can be found </span><a href="https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.stamfordct.gov%2Fgovernment%2Foperations%2Fengineering-department%2Fcapital-projects%2Fhunting-ridge-road-bridge-replacement%23!%2F/1/01000193c1a51385-189f98ec-c5c6-4454-8b71-e8aca3a6c806-000000/hqwD2eLtv1JlHX1DHT2htrESdm5NIWpj-zfhhSj4IPM=383" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">here</a><span style="background-color: transparent;">.</span></li><li><span style="background-color: transparent;">Connecticut Department of Transportation Stamford Station Construction: Construction continues at the Stamford Train Station, so please make sure to plan ahead.</span></li></ul>

<p>STAMFORD, CT/December 11, 2024 – SoundWaters, the region’s leader in climate science education, has announced the addition of four new members to its Board of Directors: Stamford residents Michael Katz, Terrence Moduthagam, Janeene Freeman and John Shaker.</p><p>Mr. Katz of Stamford is a partner at Cuddy &amp; Feder LLP and serves as chairman of the firm’s real estate, corporate, finance and non-profit groups. He is actively involved in numerous community organizations, including the American Jewish Committee’s Westchester/Fairfield Chapter and the March of Dimes Real Estate Breakfast Organizing Committee. Mr. Katz has been selected for the New York Metropolitan Area Super Lawyers® list in Real Estate Law each year from 2018 through 2024 and is also listed in The Best Lawyers in America® 2025 list.</p><p><span style="color: rgb(29, 34, 40);">Mr. </span>Moduthagam<span style="color: rgb(29, 34, 40);"> is the Global Head of Marketplace Development at Media.net and specializes in strategic </span>partnerships, product management and commercial strategy. With over 16 years of experience in advertising technology, he has worked with both startups and industry giants like Amazon Advertising. He holds a bachelor’s degree in economics from the University of Illinois. A Chicago native, Mr. Moduthagam<span style="color: rgb(29, 34, 40);"> now resides in Stamford with his wife and two daughters. </span></p><p>Ms. Freeman is currently Special Assistant to the Mayor for Community Partnerships and Engagement, where she serves as a liaison between the mayor’s office and local organizations. She oversees the Citizens’ Service Department and Fix It Stamford while managing policy committees focused on education and affordable housing. Previously, as Director of Education and Youth Development at Fairfield County’s Community Foundation, Ms. Freeman distributed $1.5M annually to nonprofit partners to close the opportunity gap in Fairfield County. She lives in Stamford with her husband and two children.</p><p>Mr. Shaker, a retired senior media and music executive, has over 40 years of experience in general management, sales marketing, distribution and content licensing. He earned a bachelor of science degree from Syracuse University’s Newhouse School of Public Communications. Mr. Shaker was a Senior Vice President and key member of the founding management of MTV Networks and later was Senior Vice President of the Licensing, Sales and Marketing division at Broadcast Music Inc./BMI. A longtime resident of Darien, he currently lives in Stamford. He enjoys spending time in or near the water.</p><p>For more information, visit <a href="https://soundwaters.org/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">soundwaters.org</a>.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p class="ql-align-center"><br></p>