<p><strong>Finding Your Voice as a Parent Webinar: Navigating Divorce for Parents of Special Education Students on Tuesday April 29th 2025 7:00 p.m.-8:30 p.m. EST</strong></p><p>Register here on Zoom:&nbsp;<a href="https://bit.ly/56A217B" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(81, 98, 111);">https://bit.ly/56A217B</a></p><p>Co-hosted online with the Stamford JCC (Stamford, CT).</p><p>Speakers:</p><ul><li>Attorney Lawrence Berliner, Connecticut Special Education Law-</li><li>Jane Faherty, Stamford JCC JumpStart Director &amp; Special Education Advocate</li><li>Attorney Eric Broder and Attorney Carole Orland, Divorce &amp; Family Law at Broder Orland Murray and DeMattie LLC, Westport &amp; Greenwich CT.</li></ul><p>Often, the divorce rate is higher for marriages of parents involving children with special needs. When special needs children are involved in divorce, there are added concerns to address. We are pleased to bring to the table two experienced divorce and family law attorneys to discuss the challenges facing parents of special needs children who are divorcing …always keeping in mind the best interests of the child.</p><p>Let’s Start a Conversation to Help Guide Parents:</p><p>• Develop an overall Parenting Plan</p><p>• Create a Team of Specialists so parents can work together in understanding their child’s needs and the team that will support them</p><p>• Collaborate on an educational plan in the child’s best interest</p><p>• Consider your child’s unique circumstances</p><p>• Role of Guardian Ad Litem</p><p>• Role of Court and Court Services</p><p>• Q &amp; A</p><p><strong>Questions? Please contact Rachel Berliner, Public Relations Assistant at&nbsp;</strong><a href="mailto:rachel@berlinerspecialedlaw.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><strong>rachel@berlinerspecialedlaw.com</strong></a></p>

<p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">​The Greenwich Town Party (GTP) is set to return on Saturday, May 24, 2025, at Roger Sherman Baldwin Park in Greenwich, Connecticut. This annual event brings the community for a day filled with iconic music, food, and family-friendly activities.​</span></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">The 2025 Main Stage lineup features seven-time Grammy Award winner Alanis Morissette, known for her 1995 album "Jagged Little Pill." Joining her is eight-time Grammy Award winner Ziggy Marley, renowned for his unique blend of reggae, funk, rock, and blues. Additionally, the Preservation Hall Jazz Band will bring the vibrant sounds of New Orleans to the stage. For younger attendees, "Blippi: The Wonderful World Tour" will offer an engaging performance tailored for children. ​</span></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Tickets for the GTP are exclusively available to Greenwich residents and employees. The ticket lottery was open from March 4 through March 24, 2025. Community tickets are priced at $85 each, while Senior tickets are available for $25, plus processing fees. Children aged 12 and under can attend for free. ​</span></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">The GTP is organized by Greenwich Town Party, Inc., a nonprofit organization.</span></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">For more information and updates, visit the official Greenwich Town Party website at</span><a href="https://www.greenwichtownparty.org/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"> </a><a href="https://www.greenwichtownparty.org" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">https://www.greenwichtownparty.org/</a><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">.</span></p><p><br></p>

<p><strong>DARIEN, CT —</strong>&nbsp;The Domestic Violence Crisis Center (DVCC) will host its 23rd Annual Voices of Courage Spring Luncheon on&nbsp;<strong>Thursday, May 15, 2025,</strong>&nbsp;at Tokeneke Club in Darien. This year’s keynote will be given by nationally recognized speaker and advocate,<strong>&nbsp;Ashley Bendiksen</strong>, who will share her personal journey as a survivor of teen dating violence and speak to the critical need for prevention, awareness, and community support at all levels. Tickets and sponsorships for the event may be purchased at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.dvccct.org/voices-of-courage/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(96, 99, 173); background-color: transparent;">Voices of Courage – DOMESTIC VIOLENCE CRISIS CENTER.</a></p><p>With a message rooted in both lived experience and field expertise, Bendiksen will explore the complex dynamics of intimate partner violence—what makes it difficult to leave, the red flags young people often miss, and what she wishes she had known earlier. She will also address how families, schools, and communities can better support youth and survivors of all ages through prevention education, open dialogue, and advocacy.</p><p>“In sharing my story, I hope to empower others—especially young people—to recognize unhealthy relationships early, speak up, and know they’re not alone,” said Bendiksen. “Education and awareness can change, and even save, lives.”</p><p>Bendiksen is a sought after expert on domestic violence, uniquely specializing in how abuse impacts youth. She has spoken at leading conferences, including NOVA (National Organization for Victim Assistance) and the National Coalition to End Sexual Exploitation (CESE), and has delivered expert testimony in support of a Massachusetts bill mandating employment protections for victims of abuse. Bendiksen is also the Founder of the Blue Hearts Project, a global storytelling platform for survivors, and was featured in a 12x award-winning documentary. Additionally, Bendiksen serves on the Board of Directors for the Women’s Resource Center and co-owns Island Youth Coaching, a consulting and life coaching agency dedicated to supporting and empowering youth. Learn more at&nbsp;<a href="http://ashleybendiksen.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(96, 99, 173); background-color: transparent;">ashleybendiksen.com</a>.</p><p>“All too often, people think domestic violence doesn’t happen in Fairfield County—but I can tell you it does,” said&nbsp;<strong>Suzanne Adam</strong>, Chief Executive Officer of DVCC. “Voices of Courage is not only a fabulous event, it is critical to our mission. Funds raised from the luncheon ensure we will be there to answer the call when a domestic violence victim needs our services.”</p><p>Last year, DVCC provided direct services to<strong>&nbsp;3,619</strong>&nbsp;survivors of domestic violence across Stamford, Norwalk, Darien, New Canaan, Weston, Westport, and Wilton. All proceeds from the luncheon will benefit DVCC’s mission to provide effective services, support, and education for the prevention and elimination of domestic violence in Connecticut communities.</p><p>DVCC offers a full range of services including crisis intervention through its 24-hour hotline and two emergency safe houses, adult and youth counseling, legal advocacy, housing and financial sustainability, and prevention education. All services are&nbsp;<strong>free and confidential.</strong></p>

<p class="ql-align-center"><strong style="color: rgb(24, 25, 26);">FC Buzz Weekend April 11-15</strong></p><p><span style="color: rgb(19, 19, 20);">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.</span></p><p><a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/events/oliver-nurseries-plein-air-speaker-series-9d503" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong>Plein Air Speaker Series</strong></a></p><p><strong>Oliver Nurseries and Design Associates, Fairfield</strong></p><p>Saturday Apr 12, 10:00 am - 10:45 am</p><p>Make a morning of it by grabbing coffee at our coffee bar, strolling our park-like grounds, checking out our curated selection of vendors and connecting with our gardening community!</p><p><a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/events/plant-swap-6edc3" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong>Plant Swap</strong></a></p><p><strong>Rainy Day Paperback, Bethel</strong></p><p>Saturday Apr 12, 11:00 am - 2:00 pm</p><p>Bring a plant to swap or take some home! You don't have to bring plants to take home and you can bring plants without taking.</p><p><a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/events/family-day-luck-of-the-irish" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong>Family Day: Luck of the Irish!</strong></a></p><p><strong>Bellarmine Hall, Fairfield</strong></p><p>Saturday Apr 12, 12:30 pm - 4:00 pm</p><p>During this Family Day event, kids ages 4-10 will get to create St. Brigid's crosses - an Irish tradition of a woven cross that is hung over a doorway to evoke St. Brigid's blessings and mark the beginning of Spring!</p><p><a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/events/an-easter-on-mulberry-street---play-reading" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong>"An Easter on Mulberry Street" - Play Reading</strong></a></p><p><strong>Weston History &amp; Culture Center, Weston</strong></p><p>Saturday Apr 12, 2:00 pm - 3:30 pm</p><p>An Italian-American family prepares for Easter on the home front during WWII in this bittersweet comedy written and directed by Frank S. Petrilli. </p><p><a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/events/the-rock-and-roll-playhouse-music-of-taylor-swift" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong>The Rock And Roll Playhouse: Music of Taylor Swift</strong></a></p><p><strong>Stamford Center for the Arts, Stamford</strong></p><p>Sunday Apr 13, 12:00 pm - 2:00 pm</p><p>The Rock and Roll Playhouse, a family concert series hosted at historic music venues across the country, allows kids to “move, play and sing while listening to works from the classic-rock canon” (NY Times). Performing songs created by the most iconic musicians in rock history, The Rock and Roll Playhouse band offers its core audience of families with children aged ten and under games, movement, stories and an opportunity to rock out in an effort to educate children and explore their creativity. </p><p><a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/events/tulip-bulb-opening-reception-at-grace-salmon-park" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong>Tulip Bulb: Opening Reception</strong></a></p><p><strong>Grace K Salmon Park, Westport</strong></p><p>Sunday Apr 13, 3:00 pm - 4:00 pm</p><p>Emily Teall's interactive steel sculpture, Tulip Bulb, has been planted at its new home in Westport, CT! Tulip Bulb is now at Grace K. Salmon Park at Imperial Landing, where it will remain for the next 5 years. This event will also feature poetry by Donna Disch and local musicians. Please come by to celebrate!</p><p><a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/events/ancient-aliens" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong>Ancient Aliens</strong></a></p><p><strong>Stamford Center for the Arts, Stamford</strong></p><p>Sunday Apr 13, 7:00 pm - 10:00 pm</p><p>Ancient Aliens LIVE is an experiential extension of Ancient Aliens that explores the theory that extraterrestrials have visited Earth for millions of years. The ninety-minute live experience celebrates the long-running program Ancient Aliens on The HISTORY Channel and features leading Ancient Astronaut theorist Giorgio A. Tsoukalos, investigative mythologist William Henry, UFO investigator Nick Pope, and ancient civilizations expert, Jason Martell, as they discuss thought-provoking extraterrestrial theories on fan-favorite topics from Ancient Egypt to the moon, paving the long road to Disclosure.</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>

<h2><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Local Business Champion </span><a href="https://medbillsassist.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">MedBillsAssist</a></h2><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Meet </span><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/katalingoencz/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">Katalin Goencz</a><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"> Managing Director at MedBillsAssist</span></p><p><em style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Medical bills are confusing for most people. We understand those claims and more importantly, we know where to look for errors and problems. We work with the patient as a liaison between insurance companies, doctors/hospitals to solve billing and reimbursement problems.&nbsp;</em></p><p><strong style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Why did you start MedBillsAssist?</strong></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">There was a gap between medical care providers and insurance companies. People need help navigating the financial aspects of medical care.</span></p><p><strong style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">What is your best-selling service?</strong></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Medial claim management, appeals, policy evaluation.</span></p><p><strong style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Do you use any local businesses to support MedBillsAssit operations?</strong></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Yes, we use Stamford accountant, Jim Breeden</span></p><p><strong style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Have you reimagined your small business?</strong></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">My business is always evolving. Every family and every individual has different needs.</span></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Questions? Email </span><a href="mailto:katalin@medbillsassist.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">katalin@medbillsassist.com</a></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Visit MedBillsAssist Blog</span><a href="https://blogs.medbillsassist.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"> https://blogs.medbillsassist.com/</a></p><p><strong style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">HamletHub thanks</strong><a href="http://www.jkinfordbeautygroup.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong> </strong></a><a href="https://www.fairfieldcountybank.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong>Fairfield County Bank </strong></a><strong style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">for making our Why Small Businesses Matter series possible!</strong></p><p><br></p><p><br></p>

<p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">&nbsp;MAYOR’S UPDATES</span></p><ul><li><span style="background-color: transparent;">Stamford Tech Hub Launch: This week, I joined leaders from Charter Communications, DAE, the Stamford Partnership, Webster Bank, CT DECD Commissioner Dan O’Keefe to officially launch the Stamford Tech Hub—an exciting initiative made possible through a strong public-private partnership led by my administration. This major new initiative offers free, hands-on tech training for Stamford residents of all skill levels. This is a game-changing investment in our local talent and Stamford’s innovation economy.</span></li><li><span style="background-color: transparent;">Daffodils at Columbus Park: I joined Synchrony, the DSSD, and local nonprofits to celebrate the stunning bloom of 10,000 daffodils in Columbus Park—symbolizing growth, renewal, and community spirit. Synchrony's generous $1.5 million donation to Stamford nonprofits is a powerful example of what we can achieve through our Stamford Parks Community Partnership and strong public-private collaboration.</span></li><li><span style="background-color: transparent;">Child Care Round Table: Last week, I welcomed Comptroller Sean Scanlon and other state legislators for a roundtable on childcare affordability and accessibility. We heard directly from local providers about the urgent challenges they are facing—from rising costs to underinvestment in the sector, to staffing shortages. Access to affordable, high-quality childcare is essential for working families, economic growth, and ensuring every child has a strong start. That’s why it’s critical we continue working together—across all levels of government—to invest, expand access, and prioritize policies that support families and providers alike.&nbsp;</span></li></ul><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">CITY NEWS</span></p><ul><li><span style="background-color: transparent;">My City Stamford Day: On April 9, 2025, we will host over 16,000 Stamford Public Schools students and their families will engage in hands-on urban planning activities. This event promises to be an exciting opportunity for Stamford’s students to come together and envision the future of Stamford.</span></li><li><span style="background-color: transparent;">Small Business Survey: My administration recently launched a quick survey to help us better understand small business challenges in our community and explore ways to support your success. Click </span><a href="https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.surveymonkey.com%2Fr%2FN3BJD5G%3Ffbclid=IwY2xjawIbHi9leHRuA2FlbQIxMAABHW0mJkRqdIcXLpBtowA_VAl43a6WqfDp-oPhijYOc05FokrkpKukbzwWlA_aem_beUqrALwQ63dRAYJi1mSqQ/1/01000196029bf3eb-a32196e8-4ab3-42ae-8d3f-ef533bba5250-000000/J0XrGL-q7ceRU6z9IrO2p5QkczcHfc4J5aRepluR1Mc=399" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">here</a><span style="background-color: transparent;"> to participate.</span></li><li><span style="background-color: transparent;">Learning in Retirement: Learning in Retirement is beginning a new semester! Classes in art, music, current events, and history are offered to senior citizens and other retirees. </span></li><li><span style="background-color: transparent;">April 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!</span></li><li><span style="background-color: transparent;">Lathon Wider Community Center: On the morning of Thursday, January 2, the City Facilities Department was notified of a flooding incident in the basement of the Lathon Wider Community Center (137 Henry Street) caused by a failure in a piece of mechanical equipment. The target date for reopening the building is July 1, 2025.</span></li><li class="ql-indent-1"><span style="background-color: transparent;">The Stamford Community Public Health Clinic has temporarily moved to 138 Stillwater Avenue - a former Optimus location. Convenient street parking is available. To make an appointment, call 203-977-5385.</span></li><li><span style="background-color: transparent;">Stamford 2035 Update: We were thrilled to see over 250 Stamford residents at our recent Stamford 2035 open house! If you missed the event or have additional insights, please take a few minutes to complete the </span><a href="https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.stamfordct.gov%2F%3Fsplash=https%253a%252f%252fsasakistrategies.typeform.com%252fmycitystamford%26____isexternal=true/1/01000196029bf3eb-a32196e8-4ab3-42ae-8d3f-ef533bba5250-000000/BlYDZJXKtA68_oPOf551Qu48D2KFX84xF6XY5FXVEoQ=399" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">My City Stamford survey</a><span style="background-color: transparent;"> to help us prioritize goals and shape the city's future. </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><li><span style="background-color: transparent;">Paving Update: Click </span><a href="https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.stamfordct.gov%2Fgovernment%2Foperations%2Froad-maintenance%2Froad-paving%23!%2F/1/01000196029bf3eb-a32196e8-4ab3-42ae-8d3f-ef533bba5250-000000/nz5XK76OI8pKI0bv-Cga2TYYSGXCN1Ss7nbMQhPrpbw=399" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">here</a><span style="background-color: transparent;"> for the priority list for paving operations established in response to a city-wide road assessment in 2022</span></li><li><span style="background-color: transparent;">Apply for a Special Events Permit: To reserve a pavilion or host events at city parks click </span><a href="https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fstamfordct.portal.opengov.com%2Fcategories%2F1091%2Frecord-types%2F6547/1/01000196029bf3eb-a32196e8-4ab3-42ae-8d3f-ef533bba5250-000000/Yp3HeF3XBOf_tnSduRr2xK7GscEiBeO__kSY-hJ6KbQ=399" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">here</a><span style="background-color: transparent;">.</span></li></ul>