<p class="ql-align-center"><strong style="color: rgb(24, 25, 26);">FC BUZZ Weekend July 26-28</strong></p><p>HamletHub is proud to partner with the Cultural Alliance of Fairfield County and FCBuzz to Elevate Arts and Culture in Fairfield County! Each week, look for a listing of weekend events and activities. The Cultural Alliance of Fairfield County celebrates the vibrancy and diversity of the arts and culture across 15 towns in coastal Fairfield County. Sign up to receive a free eBuzz newsletter with top picks and spotlight events from the hundreds of events posted on FCBuzz.</p><p><a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/events/moca-some-noise---open-mic-night" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong>MOCA SOME NOISE OPEN MIC NIGHT</strong></a></p><p><strong>Moca CT</strong></p><p>Friday Jul 26, 6:30 pm - 8:30 pm</p><p>Join Moca Ct for an Open Mic night featuring acoustic music, poetry, and slam poetry! Everyone is invited to participate and attend.</p><p><a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/events/ftc-presents-mystic-bowie-s-talking-dreads" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong>MYSTIC BOWIE'S TALKING DREADS</strong></a></p><p><strong>Fairfield Theatre Company</strong></p><p>Friday Jul 26, 8:00 pm - 10:30 pm</p><p>These guys are so much more than a reggae-tribute of the Talking Heads’ top hits. Picture that famously funky frequency, picked up on the sun-bathed beaches of Jamaica and put through a Caribbean kaleidoscope. Fronted by Connecticut's own, Mystic Bowie, Talking Dreads will be Burning Down The House. As a former member of the Tom Tom Club, a band that includes Talking Heads founders Chris Frantz and Tina Weymouth, Mystic Bowie infuses fresh life into Talking Heads' classic catalog with his high octane mix of roots reggae, ska and rock. "Talking Dreads cover Talking Heads songs as shimmering one-drop reggae jewels. Tom Tom Club vet Mystic Bowie covers Talking Heads songs by swapping out urbanity for roots and sincerity.” – Salon</p><p><a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/events/fairfield-museum-summer-camps-614e7" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong>SUMMER CAMPS</strong></a></p><p><strong>Fairfield Museum</strong></p><p>Friday Jul 26, 9:00 am - 3:00 pm</p><p>These unforgettable summer camps are designed for kids ages 7-12 and bring history to life through art-making, gallery exploration, outdoor play on the Museum Commons, and many more hands-on activities. Each week features a different theme inspired by the Museum’s rich collections and exhibitions. Whether your child has an interest in archaeology, history, or the arts, you’ll be sure to find a program that’s right for them. Adventures in Art Camp | July 22-26 Spy Camp | July 29-August 2 Innovation Camp | August 5-9 Archaeology Camp | August 12-16 | SOLD OUT! History Camp | August 19-23</p><p><a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/events/the-greenwich-art-society-is-offering-a-new-workshop-colored-pencil-the-painterly-way" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong>A NEW WORKSHOP!! COLORED PENCIL: THE PAINTERLY WAY</strong></a></p><p><strong>Greenwich Art Society</strong></p><p>Saturday Jul 27, 10:00 am - 3:30 pm</p><p>You read correctly! Learn how to approach color pencil in a way that resembles pastel painting with the aim of finishing a drawing using color pencils within a short period of time. Color pencil may possibly be one of the most misunderstood mediums often treated in a slow and tedious manner. But what if we could use it as a brush in a painterly way? Participants would be introduced to a quick layering system derived from the way pastelists use hard and soft pastels for sketching on toned surfaces. If you love color pencils this crash course will help you discover other ways to express your artwork through this fun medium.</p><p><a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/events/cody-wolfe-live-bijou-theatre-bridgeport-connecticut" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong>CODY WOLFE LIVE</strong></a></p><p><strong>The Bijou Theatre</strong></p><p>Saturday Jul 27, 7:00 pm - 10:00 pm</p><p>Get ready to Bring Country Back with Nashville Recording Artist and Trend Setting Country Singer/Songwriter Cody Wolfe. From his breakup hit "Better Without You" to fan favorite "Don't Blame Your Drunk On Me" and songs from his new album "Bringin Country Back" be prepared for a full band, live show full of original music that you'll be singing along with from the very first note. ​</p><p><a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/events/weston-what-lies-beneath-exhibit-3d8b5" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong>WESTON...WHAT LIES BENEATH EXHIBIT</strong></a></p><p><strong>Weston History &amp; Culture Center</strong></p><p>Sunday Jul 28, 1:00 pm - 4:00 pm</p><p>The yard of one of Weston’s oldest homes, the Peter Thorp House, reveals its past lives. Through objects, rare photographs, videos, and hands-on activities, discover what lies beneath and who lived above. Kids can dig for artifacts in the exhibit's fun Kids Corner.</p><p><a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/events/summer-concert-series-paul-gabriel" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong>SUMMER CONCERT SERIES WITH PAUL GABRIEL</strong></a></p><p><strong>Bartlett Arboretum &amp; Gardens</strong></p><p>Sunday Jul 28, 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm</p><p>Paul Gabriel is a Blues Music Award nominee, Lifetime Achievement Award recipient, Blues Hall of Fame inductee, and New England Music Hall of Fame inductee.</p><p><a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/events/parker-s-tangent-concert-at-music-at-the-barn" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong>PARKER'S TANGENT CONCERT </strong></a></p><p><strong>MUSIC AT THE BARN</strong></p><p>Sunday Jul 28, 5:30 pm - 7:00 pm</p><p>Parker’s Tangent is an established rock band based out of New Haven, CT. They play all original rock music based on blues and roots sources. Their wonderful female lead singer has been compared to Grace Slick and Nora Jones. The band is rounded out by drums, percussion, lead and rhythm guitars, bass and violin. Their music ranges from poetic, quiet and touching, to bluesy and rocking! Parker’s Tangent has performed together for over 19 years and has performed at Toads' Place, the main stage of the New Haven Green, The International Festival of Arts and Ideas, Westport’s Blues, Views and Bar-B-Que Festival, the Phoenix, Long Wharf Theater and many more.</p><p><a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/events/artisan-marketplace-summer-series-4e573" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong>ARTISAN MARKETPLACE SUMMER SERIES</strong></a></p><p><strong>MoCA CT</strong></p><p>Sunday Jul 28, 12:00 pm - 4:00 pm</p><p>This year’s Artisan Marketplace will be held outdoors, providing a beautiful and spacious setting for visitors to explore a wide variety of unique, handcrafted items. From jewelry and pottery to textiles and artwork, there will be something for everyone to enjoy and appreciate. The galleries inside will also be open to enjoy our latest exhibition. The Artisan Marketplace Summer Series is a perfect opportunity for families and friends to spend a leisurely afternoon supporting and discovering the talent and creativity of local artisans. We continue to accept vendor applications – click here to apply!</p><p>See these and discover hundreds more events on the <a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">FCBUZZ EVENTS</a> page at <a href="https://culturalalliancefc.org" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://culturalalliancefc.org</a> Sign up for the <a href="https://culturalalliancefc.org/resources/newsletter-sign-up/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Cultural Alliance eBuzz</a> to receive top picks and spotlights each week in your inbox.</p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><br></p>

<h2><strong style="color: rgb(50, 55, 61); background-color: transparent;">Why Small Businesses Matter</strong></h2><p><em style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Shop small, do big things for your community</em></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Why Small Businesses Matter puts a spotlight on the local merchants who donate their time, talent, goods, and services for the betterment of our community. The shop local movement spreads virally as local businesses who are “tagged” have the opportunity to share their story!</span></p><p><strong style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Meet Vito Bochicchio, owner and founder of Stamford Yellow Cab Inc.</strong></p><p><strong style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Why did you start your business?</strong></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">I started Yellow Cab because, after an injury, I needed a job to support myself. Initially, I worked for a different company, which gave me valuable experience and insights into the industry. Eventually, I decided to start my own business. I've been in this business for 53 years, driven by a passion for serving the community and providing reliable transportation.</span></p><p><strong style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">What is your best-selling product or service?</strong></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Our best-selling service is undoubtedly our customer service. At Yellow Cab, we pride ourselves on transporting happy and friendly customers. We focus on creating a positive experience for every passenger, ensuring they feel safe, comfortable, and well taken care of during their journey. This commitment to excellent customer service has been the cornerstone of our success over the years.</span></p><p><strong style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Do you use any local businesses to support Stamford Yellow Cab?</strong></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Darien and Stamford are the nucleus of my business, and we rely on several local companies to support our operations. Though the past few years have been challenging due to the pandemic and its disruptions, we've maintained strong relationships with these local partners. Some businesses we work with include local auto repair shops, fuel providers, and technology services for our dispatch, booking systems and Fairfield County Bank. My team and I are proud to provide amazing customer service, and these local businesses play a crucial role in helping us deliver a dependable service to our community.</span></p><p><strong style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Have you reimagined your small business?</strong></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Yes, I have reimagined my small business. Initially, I started Yellow Cab after an injury led me to seek new employment, and I eventually founded my own company. Over the 53 years we've been in business, our core focus has always been on exceptional customer service and ensuring happy and satisfied customers. Reimagining Yellow Cab means continuously adapting to meet the evolving needs of our community. In response to the challenges posed by the pandemic, we've implemented new safety measures, enhanced our booking system, and explored new ways to engage with and support our customers. Looking ahead, reimagining our business includes investing in eco-friendly vehicles to reduce our carbon footprint, integrating more advanced technology for efficient dispatch and customer communication, and expanding our service offerings to include options like transportation for special events. By staying flexible and innovative, we aim to continue providing reliable and top-notch service to our community.</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Questions? Contac owner, Vito at </span><a href="mailto:vito@evereadytransportation.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">vito@evereadytransportation.com</a>.</p><p><strong style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">HamletHub thanks</strong><a href="http://www.jkinfordbeautygroup.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204); background-color: transparent;"><strong> </strong></a><a href="https://www.fairfieldcountybank.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204); background-color: transparent;"><strong>Fairfield County Bank </strong></a><strong style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">for making our Why Small Businesses Matter series possible!</strong></p>

<p class="ql-align-center"><strong style="color: rgb(0, 112, 192);">MAYOR’S UPDATES</strong></p><ul><li><strong>Lower Summer Street Pedestrian Promenade:&nbsp;</strong>I was proud to welcome Connecticut Department of Transportation officials to Stamford to celebrate the official ribbon cutting for Lower Summer Street. This project transformed Lower Summer Street into a more pedestrian-friendly space with expanded outdoor dining, widened ADA-compliant sidewalks, and improved lighting, all while enhancing the vibrancy and walkability of our downtown.&nbsp;</li></ul><p class="ql-align-center"><strong style="color: rgb(0, 112, 192);">CITY NEWS</strong></p><ul><li><strong>Arts &amp; Culture Guide:</strong>&nbsp;The City of Stamford and the Stamford Arts and Culture Commission are excited to announce, “<a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.stamfordct.gov%2Fhome%2Fshowpublisheddocument%2F36550%2F638566424704500000/1/01010190cccd38e0-1ff2e48d-a99e-423d-b848-3beb054afc28-000000/XNTHFOk8K-G_kDXoDp88TKgsCLflbay5jcToDdR3h04=362" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(51, 127, 254);">Stamford Spotlight: A Celebration of Arts and Culture</a>.” This guide highlights upcoming arts and cultural events in Stamford. Be sure to stop by and support our local organizations!&nbsp;</li><li><strong>Parking Garage Demolition:</strong>&nbsp;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&nbsp;<a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fportal.ct.gov%2Fdot%2Fprojects%2F0301-0513-stcgaragedemo-progsched/1/01010190cccd38e0-1ff2e48d-a99e-423d-b848-3beb054afc28-000000/E8lYz8i9PrkAdn4PJpV6zeHn5bu43hB54WRGMlGfC7E=362" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(51, 127, 254);">here</a>.</li><li><strong>Paving Update:</strong>&nbsp;Click&nbsp;<a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.stamfordct.gov%2Fgovernment%2Foperations%2Froad-maintenance%2Froad-paving%23!%2F/1/01010190cccd38e0-1ff2e48d-a99e-423d-b848-3beb054afc28-000000/aWO2lS5J-qfqflOEySp5vH95RXfbZHfcWj9RvFFRGdU=362" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(51, 127, 254);">here</a>&nbsp;for the priority list for paving operations established in response to a city-wide road assessment in 2022.</li><li><strong>Beach Passes Available for Purchase:</strong>&nbsp;Beach passes are now available for purchase online or in person. Parking permits are required at Cove Island, Cummings, West Beach, John J. Boccuzzi,&nbsp;Dorothy Heroy &amp; Newman Mills Riverbank Walk Parks from May 1st through September 30th. Click&nbsp;<a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.stamfordct.gov%2Faround-town%2Fparks%2Fbeach-parking-permits/1/01010190cccd38e0-1ff2e48d-a99e-423d-b848-3beb054afc28-000000/Iip9W5jyOaXdnsah6042BMUi_M4YdSantwd6r6_JLLQ=362" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(51, 127, 254);">here&nbsp;</a>for more information and to purchase your pass.</li><li><strong>Stamford Transportation Center Master Plan:&nbsp;</strong>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. To view the Stamford Transportation Center Master Plan, visit:&nbsp;<a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.stamfordct.gov%2F%3Fsplash=http%253a%252f%252fstcmasterplan.com%252f%26____isexternal=true/1/01010190cccd38e0-1ff2e48d-a99e-423d-b848-3beb054afc28-000000/lb4KekIywPMM_KHKV34jj7vKNNbT5ApCjxh1q23lLKA=362" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(51, 127, 254);">stcmasterplan.com</a>.</li></ul><p class="ql-align-center"><strong style="color: rgb(0, 112, 192);">CITY EVENTS</strong></p><ul><li><strong style="color: rgb(0, 112, 192);">&nbsp;</strong><strong>ADA 34:</strong>&nbsp;Please join us to celebrate the implementation of the Americans with Disabilities Act that was put into effect on July 26, 1990. This important Civil Rights law prohibits discrimination against individuals with disabilities in all areas of public life, including, but not limited to jobs, schools, transportation, and all places that are open to the general public</li></ul><p><br></p>

<p class="ql-align-center"><strong>FC Buzz Weekend July 19-23</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/art-for-lunch" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong>ART FOR LUNCH</strong></a></p><p><strong>The Westport Library</strong></p><p>Friday Jul 19, 12:30 pm - 2:00 pm</p><p>A BYO lunchtime art meet-up at the Westport Library with members of the Artists Collective of Westport, who will discuss the inspiration for their all-member exhibition "Word: Visual vs Verbal" now on view in the Sheffer and South Galleries. Stop by the Library Cafe first and pick up a bite or brown bag it -- and enjoy Art for Lunch!</p><p><a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/events/ftc-presents-jackie-greene" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong>Jackie Greene</strong></a></p><p><strong>Fairfield Theatre Company</strong></p><p>Friday Jul 19, 8:00 pm - 10:30 pm</p><p>Americana and roots singer-songwriter Jackie Greene is a jack-of-all-trades, and an artist who can croon over soulful piano ballads as much as he can shred a bluesy guitar solo (like he did as the lead guitarist for The Black Crowes in 2013). A road warrior and musician's musician, Greene's new EP 'The Modern Lives – Vol 2' (out October 2018 on Blue Rose Music) finds him at a new chapter in his life: his first months of fatherhood, time off his relentless touring circuit, and a cross-country move from Brooklyn to his birthplace of Northern California.</p><p><a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/events/they-made-it-a-musical-ab523" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong>THEY MADE IT A MUSICAL!</strong></a></p><p><strong>Westport Country Playhouse</strong></p><p>Friday Jul 19, 8:00 pm - 9:30 pm</p><p>A concert celebrating Broadway’s greatest musicals and the works that inspired them! Thursday, July 18 at 8PM; Friday, July 19 at 8PM; Saturday, July 20 at 3PM &amp; 8PM. “THEY MADE IT A MUSICAL!” pulls back the curtain on the Broadway shows you love, shining the spotlight on the plays, novels, works of art, short stories and historical events that inspired them!</p><p><a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/events/birding-at-the-bartlett" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong>Birding at the Bartlett</strong></a></p><p><strong>Bartlett Arboretum &amp; Gardens</strong></p><p>Saturday Jul 20, 7:30 am - 9:00 am</p><p>Join Bartlett Educators for a morning walk around the Bartlett grounds to look for rare bird sightings and other signs of the summer birding activity.</p><p><a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/events/old-post-road-walking-tour" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong>Old Post Road Walking Tour</strong></a></p><p><strong>Fairfield Museum and History Center</strong></p><p>Saturday Jul 20, 10:30 am - 12:00 pm</p><p>Immerse yourself in the charm of the Old Post Road Historic District. Join a guided tour exploring what was once the main road through Fairfield dating back hundreds of years. Originally a Native American trade and travel route, Old Post Road is lined with historic sites. Learn about the Old Fairfield Academy, Annie B. Jennings, the Unquowa Hotel, the Roger Sherman homestead, the home of Ely S. Parker, and other fascinating stories.</p><p><a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/events/family-day-all-about-conservation" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong>Family Day: All About Conservation</strong></a></p><p><strong>Fairfield Museum and History Center</strong></p><p>Saturday Jul 20, 11:00 am - 2:00 pm</p><p>Families and friends of all ages are invited to a special day filled with hands-on activities to celebrate the new exhibition Pioneering Conservation. Join us for a Green Song Singalong with the Fairfield Pollinator Pathway &amp; Fairfield Forestry Committee, a touch tank from The Maritime Aquarium at Norwalk, arts &amp; crafts, and much more. In case of inclement weather, program will take place inside the Fairfield Museum.</p><p><a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/events/artist-talk-nomi-silverman-s-dresden-residency" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong>Artist Talk: Nomi Silverman’s Dresden Residency</strong></a></p><p><strong>Center for Contemporary Printmaking</strong></p><p>Saturday Jul 20, 2:00 pm - 3:00 pm</p><p>Nomi Silverman was chosen to be the inaugural artist in the Center for Contemporary Printmaking's new annual residency exchange with the Grafikwerkstatt Dresden studio and the City of Dresden. Anyone interested in applying for 2025’s exchange should definitely plan to attend Silverman’s talk. For those unable to attend in person, a recording will be posted to our YouTube channel the following week.</p><p><a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/events/instructors-summer-salon-at-silvermine-galleries-opening" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong>Opening reception of the Summer Salon</strong></a><strong>&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/events/guild-summer-salon-opening-reception-at-silvermine-galleries" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong>and</strong>&nbsp;<strong>Instructors Summer Salon</strong></a></p><p><strong>Silvermine Galleries</strong></p><p>Saturday Jul 20, 5:30 pm - 7:30 pm</p><p>Each summer, our highly anticipated Summer Salon showcases the incredible creations of our Guild members, offering a diverse and exciting range of artworks. With one hundred and thirteen artists, this exhibit has something for everyone, from cutting-edge contemporary pieces to the enduring charm of traditional craftmanship. This a great opportunity to view and purchase artwork by Silvermine's many talented instructors.</p><p><a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/events/the-music-of-the-night-with-cris-groenendaal-and-sue-anderson-on-piano" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong>THE MUSIC OF THE NIGHT WITH CRIS GROENENDAAL AND SUE ANDERSON ON PIANO</strong></a></p><p><strong>Music Theatre of CT</strong></p><p>Saturday Jul 20, 8:00 pm - 9:30 pm</p><p>With over 860 performances as the Phantom in "Phantom of the Opera" and a B'way career with roles in "Sweeney Todd," "Sunday in the Park with George," and more, Cris Groenendaal's brings a blend of B'way hits, pop tunes, folk songs, and classic novelties.</p><p><a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/events/fuzz-at-music-at-the-barn" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong>Fuzz at Music at the Barn</strong></a></p><p><strong>Weston History &amp; Culture Center</strong></p><p>Sunday Jul 21, 5:30 pm - 7:00 pm</p><p>Guitarist, vocalist, songwriter, producer and all around energetic and engaging performer, Fuzz has been a successful international touring and recording artist for the past few decades with some of his projects such as Deep Banana Blackout, Caravan of Thieves and Big Fuzz in addition to working alongside acts such as the Tom Tom Club and sharing the stage with The Allman Brothers, John Scofield, Keb Mo, Emmylou Harris, Bela Fleck, members of Phish, the James Brown band and many others.</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-center"><strong style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34);">Silver&nbsp;Hill Hospital Hosts Patrick J. Kennedy and Expert Panelists for Special Mental Health Event and Book Signing</strong></p><p class="ql-align-center"><em style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34);">Wednesday Evening, July 24, at the Hilton Stamford Hotel &amp; Executive Meeting Center</em></p><p><span style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34);">Silver Hill Hospital and former Congressman Patrick J. Kennedy (D-RI) have much in common: a deep understanding of mental health and substance use disorders and the extraordinary challenges they bring, and an unwavering conviction that treatments for these conditions merit insurance coverage and reimbursement equitable to that of treatments for other conditions, like diabetes, heart disease or cancer.</span></p><p><strong style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34);">Reserve your spot </strong><a href="https://myemail-api.constantcontact.com/Reserve-Your-Spot--Patrick-Kennedy--Silver-Hill---Great-Minds-in-Mental-Health.html?aid=_k7t8xMMw_c&amp;soid=1118848950510" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><strong>here</strong></a><strong>.</strong></p><p><span style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34);">A hallmark of his time in Congress, Kennedy was the lead author of the groundbreaking Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act (MHPAEA or the Federal Parity Law), which requires insurers to cover treatment for mental health and substance use disorders no more restrictively than physical illnesses, such as diabetes and cancer. Subsequently, he founded The Kennedy Forum, to unite mental health advocates, business leaders, and government agencies in support of mental health equity. Kennedy works tirelessly to advance evidence-based practices, policies, and programming around treatment and recovery.</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34);">On Wednesday, July 24, he will join Andrew J. Gerber, MD, PhD, President and Medical Director of Silver Hill Hospital in New Canaan, CT and area experts for discussion on critical topics in mental health today: access to care and the youth mental health crisis. </span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34);">The program will conclude with a book signing of Kennedy’s recent release, </span><em style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34);">Profiles in Mental Health Courage</em><span style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34);">. </span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34);">“Silver Hill could not be more honored to be hosting this important event,” says Dr. Gerber. “We have been at the forefront of treatment for Mental Illness and Substance Use Disorders for nearly a century. We have seen firsthand the impact that effective treatments can bring to our patients. Silver Hill shares Congressman Kennedy’s long-standing commitment to mental health equity and his belief that evidence-based treatments should be accessible to all. The right treatments transform lives and bring health and meaning to an individual’s existence. What could be more important than that?” </span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34);">“The Kennedy Forum is thrilled to partner with Silver Hill Hospital to bring these important discussions to the local community,” says Rebecca O. Bagley, President and CEO of The Kennedy Forum. “A large part of our work is growing a movement to provide better care for all who need it: by 2033, we seek to have 90% of the population screened for mental health and substance use disorders, 90% of those who need it receiving quality treatment, and 90% of those </span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34);">receiving treatment managing symptoms and achieving recovery. Engaging with providers and community members will be critical to our success.”</span></p><p><strong style="color: rgb(0, 32, 96);">EXPERT PANELISTS</strong></p><p><span style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34);">Access to Care Panel</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34);">Tichianaa Armah, MD, Chief Psychiatry Officer, Community Health Center, Inc.</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34);">Francois de Brantes, MBA, EVP, Payment Innovation and Network Performance, XO Health</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34);">Jen Eielson, MPH, REHS/RS, CPH, Director of the New Canaan Department of Health</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34);">Joe Feldman, MBA, Founder &amp; President, Cover My Mental Health</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34);">Youth Mental Health Crisis Panel</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34);">Amanda Calhoun, MD, MPH, Clinical Fellow Solnit Integrated Program, Yale Child Study Center</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34);">Alexandra Estrella, EdD., Superintendent of Schools, Norwalk Public Schools</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34);">Peter Fonagy, PhD, Chief Executive of the Anna Freud National Centre for Children and Families, London</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34);">Tamu Lucero, EdD, Superintendent of Schools, Stamford Public Schools</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34);">Charles Morgan, MD, Former Chief, Department of Psychiatry, Bridgeport Hospital</span></p><p><strong style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34);"><span class="ql-cursor"></span>Reserve your spot </strong><a href="https://myemail-api.constantcontact.com/Reserve-Your-Spot--Patrick-Kennedy--Silver-Hill---Great-Minds-in-Mental-Health.html?aid=_k7t8xMMw_c&amp;soid=1118848950510" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><strong>here</strong></a><strong>.</strong></p>

<p><strong>The 13th Annual Health Wellness &amp; Lifestyle Expo 2024 on Saturday, September 7, at Harbor Point in Stamford, CT</strong></p><p>The 13th Annual Health Wellness &amp; Lifestyle Expo 2024, with special thanks to Stamford Health, Exclusive Healthcare Partner, returns on Saturday, September 7, from 10 AM to 6 PM at Harbor Point, Stamford's beautiful waterfront community. As Connecticut's largest and most significant health and wellness expo, this one-day, family- and pet-friendly extravaganza features over 120 sponsors and exhibitors showcasing and selling health and wellness products and services, and sharing the most up-to-date information to help everyone live their best life.</p><p><strong>Opening Ceremony:</strong> Festivities begin at 10 AM with Stamford Mayor Caroline Simmons presenting the Health Wellness &amp; Lifestyle Expo 2024 proclamation to Stamford Health, the Exclusive Healthcare Partner. This year’s Community Leadership Award will be presented to KeyBank and BLT/Harbor Point in recognition of their five years of support, outstanding service, and commitment to the health and well-being of the greater Stamford community.</p><p>The 2024 Expo will feature over 120 exhibitors and ten activation zones. Stamford Health, the event’s Exclusive Healthcare Partner for the thirteenth year, is at the center of it all with a wide range of offerings and information, including:</p><ul><li>Free blood pressure screenings</li><li>Healthy weight management techniques</li><li>Stop-the-bleed training</li><li>Impaired driving simulation</li><li>Behavioral health education and resources</li><li>Stroke education</li><li>MyPlate education and pediatric nutrition</li><li>Women’s health education with mammogram appointments</li></ul><p>“We are proud to be the Exclusive Healthcare Sponsor of the Health Wellness Lifestyle EXPO for the past 13 years,” stated Kathleen Silard, Stamford Health President and CEO. “We look forward to educating the community and highlighting many of our key programs and services at this year’s event. Our new Stamford Health walk-in center in Harbor Point reinforces our commitment to providing health and wellness resources to the communities we serve all year round.”</p><p><strong>Event Highlights:</strong></p><ul><li>Flu shots and nutritional meal prep provided by Grade-A ShopRite</li><li>Financial health and wellness guidance with KeyBank</li><li>Doggy daycare services by Camp Bow Wow Stamford</li><li>Men's health information provided by GameDay Men’s Health Stamford</li><li>Rehabilitation and kidney care provided by Cassena Care at Stamford and Norwalk, and Cassena Kidney Care</li><li>Vision services by Dello Russo Laser Vision</li><li>Life Time Stamford’s luxury health club in downtown Stamford</li><li>Hybrid and electric vehicle offerings from Toyota of Stamford</li></ul><p><strong>Activity Zones:</strong></p><ul><li><strong>Pet Wellness Zone:</strong> Sponsored by Spot On Veterinary Hospital &amp; Hotel</li><li><strong>Yoga and Stretching Zone:</strong> Sponsored by Chelsea Piers Athletic Club</li><li><strong>Group Fitness Zone:</strong> Sponsored by Sacred Heart University</li><li><strong>Kids Zone:</strong> Sponsored by One Speech Therapy, featuring fun activities in Harbor Point’s sand pit and play area</li><li><strong>Healthy Home Zone:</strong> Sponsored by Sam Bridge Nursery &amp; Greenhouses</li><li><strong>Touch-A-Truck Kids Zone:</strong> Featuring Stamford EMS, Fire, and Police Departments</li></ul><p>A highlight of the event will be the many free group classes taught by the area’s top fitness instructors, including the team from Life Time Stamford. These spirited and professionally guided classes are all situated along the stunning Harbor Point boardwalk.</p><p><strong>Theme:</strong> The theme for the 13th Annual Health Wellness &amp; Lifestyle Expo is GO. GATHER. GROW. Let's GO to the expo. Let's GATHER with family and friends to experience the best in health, wellness, and fitness. Let's GROW in mind, body, and spirit.</p><p><em>Parking and admission are free.</em></p><p>For the most up-to-date event information, visit <a href="https://www.hwl-expos.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HWL Expos</a>.</p>