<p>The Department of Public Works has announced that curbside leaf collection will begin on Monday, November 4. All leaves must be placed in biodegradable paper bags safely near the curb of a Town street by December 2 to guarantee pick-up. Residents living on private streets must place their leaves behind the curb of an intersecting Town roadway for pick up by Town crews. Leaves placed in plastic bags will not be picked up as plastic contaminates the composting process.</p><p>There is no need to call and schedule a pick-up. Crews will complete pick-ups as schedules allow. For further information, contact the Department of Public Works office at 203-341-1120 or visit the Department of Public Works webpage at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.westportct.gov/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(48, 68, 139); background-color: transparent;">www.westportct.gov</a>.</p>

<p><strong style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Oh, What a Night! A.C.T. of CT Kicks Off 7th Season with Electrifying "Jersey Boys"</strong></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">It bears repeating—oh, what a night! A.C.T. of CT has officially opened its 7th season with a bang, launching JERSEY BOYS, the thrilling story of Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons. This production pulls back the curtain to reveal the heart, grit, and determination of four blue-collar boys from Belleville, NJ, who took the music world by storm. With street smarts and an unstoppable love for music, they navigated personal struggles and fame, proving that some friendships really are thicker than blood.</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Seeing Jersey Boys live in the theater is an experience like no other. The energy is electric, with each song, dance, and moment feeling vibrant and personal. You’re not just watching a story unfold—you’re part of the atmosphere, where the music of Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons pulses through the crowd, making you want to clap, sing along, and lose yourself in the performance. It’s a thrilling, dynamic experience that no TV screen or movie theater can match. For a night out, there’s nothing more captivating than being in the audience as the cast brings this iconic story to life.</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Jersey Boys isn’t just about the music; it’s a tribute to the unbreakable bond of friendship that fueled the rise of Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons. With hits like “Sherry,” “Big Girls Don’t Cry,” and “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You,” the show takes audiences on an exhilarating journey through their struggles, successes, and enduring brotherhood. It all begins on a street corner in Belleville, New Jersey, in the early 1950s, where their harmonies first united and set the stage for their incredible rise to stardom.</span></p><p><strong style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Meet the Four Seasons</strong></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">The A+ casting in this production shines through with every note and every scene. Gian Raffaele DiCostanzo, as Frankie Valli, is nothing short of stellar. His powerful, high-register falsetto captures the unmistakable sound of Valli, effortlessly transporting audiences back to the 1960s. DiCostanzo not only looks and moves like the legendary singer but delivers each iconic hit with the passion and precision that made Valli a music icon.</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Alongside DiCostanzo, Christian Engelhardt plays Bob Gaudio, Matthew Stoke takes on Tommy DeVito, and Anthony Cangiamila embodies Nick Massi. Together, their harmonies are pitch-perfect, giving audiences a front-row seat to the magic of the Four Seasons’ sound.</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Stoke—just WOW! As the driving force behind the band, Matthew Stoke masterfully portrays Tommy DeVito, balancing the street-smart, tough-talking delinquent with a charismatic, talented musician. His performance captures Tommy’s raw, gritty edge while showcasing his undeniable musical prowess, making it no easy feat to bring such a complex character to life.</span></p><p><strong style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Director and Choreographer Bring Fresh Energy</strong></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Under the expert direction of Christopher D. Betts, this rendition of JERSEY BOYS offers a fresh take on the beloved musical while staying true to its roots. Betts incorporates innovative staging techniques, including the use of a turntable in place of the traditional bridge, which allows for smooth transitions across the show’s impressive 75 different locations. One standout feature of&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">A.C.T. of CT's JERSEY BOYS is the seamless integration of background projections that transport the cast to iconic locations—from a nostalgic '60s diner and a bustling New York City street corner to a sold-out theater. These projections enhance the 75 scene transitions, offering moments where the cast performs live while original footage, such as the Four Seasons on </span><em style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">The Ed Sullivan Show,</em><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;"> plays in the background. This innovative approach adds a layer of authenticity to the storytelling, fully immersing the audience in the era and bringing the music to life in a fresh, captivating way. </span><strong style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;"><em>Bravo</em></strong><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">, to the Artistic Director, Daniel C. Levine!</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Emily Franch’s choreography is another standout element, as she masterfully combines period-specific dance moves with the natural talent of the cast. Her attention to detail transports audiences to the era of doo-wop, leather jackets, and street corner harmonies, evoking the essence of the 1960s in every movement.</span></p><p><strong style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Authentic Storytelling and Iconic Music</strong></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Artistic Director Daniel C. Levine emphasizes that this production’s magic lies not only in the music but also in the authenticity of the storytelling. The production team worked tirelessly to capture the tight harmonies and distinct vocals that made Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons famous. In this intimate theater setting, A.C.T. of CT’s JERSEY BOYS invites audiences to experience the group’s rise to stardom in a way that feels personal and deeply emotional.</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Winner of the 2006 Tony Award for Best Musical, JERSEY BOYS is a timeless story about loyalty, friendship, and the unstoppable power of music. As they navigate their way through the highs and lows of fame, these four boys from Jersey prove that no matter how far you rise, you never forget where you came from—and a handshake still means something.</span></p><p><strong style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Extended Run Due to Overwhelming Demand</strong></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Due to overwhelming demand, A.C.T. of CT has extended the run of JERSEY BOYS through November 17, with an additional performance on Wednesday, November 6, at 7:00 p.m. The show has been selling out faster than Frankie Valli can hit that iconic high note in “Sherry,” so don’t miss your chance to be part of this unforgettable theatrical experience.</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Get ready to be swept away by the sounds, the story, and the energy of JERSEY BOYS, only at A.C.T. of Connecticut. Secure your tickets now before they’re gone!</span></p><p><strong style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Tickets:</strong><a href="https://www.actofct.org/jersey-boys" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204); background-color: transparent;"><strong> Jersey Boys at A.C.T. of CT</strong></a></p>

<p>Wegmans Norwalk is hosting its final open interview event of the year as it looks to fill over 100 full- and part-time positions ahead of the store’s summer 2025 opening.</p><p>The store, located at 675 Connecticut Avenue, is actively recruiting for a variety of roles, from entry-level leadership positions to food service roles in culinary departments, as well as positions in perishable areas like bakery, produce, and seafood.</p><p>Norwalk Store Manager Emily Reynolds emphasizes that candidates don’t need prior retail experience. “At Wegmans, you’ll have endless opportunities to develop and grow your career," she explains. "Our employees receive on-the-job training, so we’re excited to bring in new team members eager to start right away.”</p><p>Wegmans has long been recognized as an industry leader when it comes to employee benefits and work culture. Known for its flexible scheduling, premium pay for Sundays and holidays, and an employee scholarship program for both full-time and part-time workers, Wegmans is consistently regarded as one of the best companies to work for. In 2024, the company ranked sixth on FORTUNE magazine’s list of “The 100 Best Companies to Work For” and earned additional accolades for being a top workplace for parents and retail workers.</p><p>Applicants are encouraged to submit an online application prior to the hiring event, though walk-in interviews will also be accommodated. The event takes place on Wednesday, October 23, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at the Wegmans Norwalk Hiring Office, 40 Richards Avenue, Suite 220, Norwalk, CT. For more information, candidates can call the hiring office directly at 203-299-3333.</p>

<p><strong>On Saturday, November 2, 2024, at 8 pm, Westport CT’s Voices Cafe will present Cheryl Wheeler, with special guest Kenny White.</strong></p><p>Cheryl Wheeler is a gifted singer-songwriter with a beautiful voice, as well as a natural storyteller with a fantastic sense of humor. Cheryl's songs are often emotional portraits of people, leaving you with the impression that you know the characters. You will find yourself being pulled into each song rather than standing outside and observing, yet other songs are hilarious situation comedies.</p><p>Kenny White joins Cheryl for this concert and brings a deep career as a touring singer-songwriter, an accomplished pianist and guitarist, and a clever lyricist. It is a rare treat to see them together, promising an evening filled with touching moments, as well as fun and laughter.</p><p>Voices Cafe concerts support social justice programs in our local community, under the guidance of The Unitarian Universalist Congregation in Westport. This concert will be held at 10 Lyons Plains Road, Westport CT.</p><p><a href="https://voicescafe.org/show/live-in-person-damn-tall-buildings/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Tickets and Information: </a></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">The concert date is Saturday November 2nd, doors open at 7:30pm, showtime is 8:00pm. Tickets and information are available at </span><a href="https://voicescafe.org" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://voicescafe.org/</a> </p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Concert admission is $30 per ticket. </span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Voices Cafe concerts offer a BYO setting with a choice of coffee-house style seating at tables or individual seating. Guests can bring their own beverages and snacks; coffee and sweet treats will also be available for purchase. Groups of four or more can reserve table space.</span></p>

<p><strong style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Oh, What a Night! A.C.T. of CT Kicks Off 7th Season with Electrifying "Jersey Boys"</strong></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">It bears repeating—oh, what a night! A.C.T. of CT has officially opened its 7th season with a bang, launching JERSEY BOYS, the thrilling story of Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons. This production pulls back the curtain to reveal the heart, grit, and determination of four blue-collar boys from Belleville, NJ, who took the music world by storm. With street smarts and an unstoppable love for music, they navigated personal struggles and fame, proving that some friendships really are thicker than blood.</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Seeing Jersey Boys live in the theater is an experience like no other. The energy is electric, with each song, dance, and moment feeling vibrant and personal. You’re not just watching a story unfold—you’re part of the atmosphere, where the music of Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons pulses through the crowd, making you want to clap, sing along, and lose yourself in the performance. It’s a thrilling, dynamic experience that no TV screen or movie theater can match. For a night out, there’s nothing more captivating than being in the audience as the cast brings this iconic story to life.</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Jersey Boys isn’t just about the music; it’s a tribute to the unbreakable bond of friendship that fueled the rise of Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons. With hits like “Sherry,” “Big Girls Don’t Cry,” and “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You,” the show takes audiences on an exhilarating journey through their struggles, successes, and enduring brotherhood. It all begins on a street corner in Belleville, New Jersey, in the early 1950s, where their harmonies first united and set the stage for their incredible rise to stardom.</span></p><p><strong style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Meet the Four Seasons</strong></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">The A+ casting in this production shines through with every note and every scene. Gian Raffaele DiCostanzo, as Frankie Valli, is nothing short of stellar. His powerful, high-register falsetto captures the unmistakable sound of Valli, effortlessly transporting audiences back to the 1960s. DiCostanzo not only looks and moves like the legendary singer but delivers each iconic hit with the passion and precision that made Valli a music icon.</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Alongside DiCostanzo, Christian Engelhardt plays Bob Gaudio, Matthew Stoke takes on Tommy DeVito, and Anthony Cangiamila embodies Nick Massi. Together, their harmonies are pitch-perfect, giving audiences a front-row seat to the magic of the Four Seasons’ sound.</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Stoke—just WOW! As the driving force behind the band, Matthew Stoke masterfully portrays Tommy DeVito, balancing the street-smart, tough-talking delinquent with a charismatic, talented musician. His performance captures Tommy’s raw, gritty edge while showcasing his undeniable musical prowess, making it no easy feat to bring such a complex character to life.</span></p><p><strong style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Director and Choreographer Bring Fresh Energy</strong></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Under the expert direction of Christopher D. Betts, this rendition of JERSEY BOYS offers a fresh take on the beloved musical while staying true to its roots. Betts incorporates innovative staging techniques, including the use of a turntable in place of the traditional bridge, which allows for smooth transitions across the show’s impressive 75 different locations. One standout feature of&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">A.C.T. of CT's JERSEY BOYS is the seamless integration of background projections that transport the cast to iconic locations—from a nostalgic '60s diner and a bustling New York City street corner to a sold-out theater. These projections enhance the 75 scene transitions, offering moments where the cast performs live while original footage, such as the Four Seasons on </span><em style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">The Ed Sullivan Show,</em><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;"> plays in the background. This innovative approach adds a layer of authenticity to the storytelling, fully immersing the audience in the era and bringing the music to life in a fresh, captivating way. </span><strong style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;"><em>Bravo</em></strong><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">, to the Artistic Director, Daniel C. Levine!</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Emily Franch’s choreography is another standout element, as she masterfully combines period-specific dance moves with the natural talent of the cast. Her attention to detail transports audiences to the era of doo-wop, leather jackets, and street corner harmonies, evoking the essence of the 1960s in every movement.</span></p><p><strong style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Authentic Storytelling and Iconic Music</strong></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Artistic Director Daniel C. Levine emphasizes that this production’s magic lies not only in the music but also in the authenticity of the storytelling. The production team worked tirelessly to capture the tight harmonies and distinct vocals that made Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons famous. In this intimate theater setting, A.C.T. of CT’s JERSEY BOYS invites audiences to experience the group’s rise to stardom in a way that feels personal and deeply emotional.</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Winner of the 2006 Tony Award for Best Musical, JERSEY BOYS is a timeless story about loyalty, friendship, and the unstoppable power of music. As they navigate their way through the highs and lows of fame, these four boys from Jersey prove that no matter how far you rise, you never forget where you came from—and a handshake still means something.</span></p><p><strong style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Extended Run Due to Overwhelming Demand</strong></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Due to overwhelming demand, A.C.T. of CT has extended the run of JERSEY BOYS through November 17, with an additional performance on Wednesday, November 6, at 7:00 p.m. The show has been selling out faster than Frankie Valli can hit that iconic high note in “Sherry,” so don’t miss your chance to be part of this unforgettable theatrical experience.</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Get ready to be swept away by the sounds, the story, and the energy of JERSEY BOYS, only at A.C.T. of Connecticut. Secure your tickets now before they’re gone!</span></p><p><strong style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Tickets:</strong><a href="https://www.actofct.org/jersey-boys" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204); background-color: transparent;"><strong> Jersey Boys at A.C.T. of CT</strong></a></p>

<p class="ql-align-center"><strong><u>2025 Beekeeping Course Experience the Magic of Honey Bees this Year! In Person at the Emmanuel Church Parish Hall in Weston</u></strong></p><p>Join the Back Yard Beekeepers Association (BYBA) for Bee School 2025!</p><p>Bee school will be held on four consecutive Mondays in January:</p><ul><li>Monday, January 6th from 7-9 PM</li><li>Monday, January 13th from 7-9 PM</li><li>Monday, January 20th from 7-9 PM</li><li>Monday, January 27th from 7-9 PM</li><li>Possible Snow Date - Monday, February 5th 7-9 PM</li></ul><p>Bee School will be held at the Emmanuel Church Parish Hall, 285 Lyons Plain Road in Weston CT.&nbsp;Each session will be recorded and made available to all registrants to review as needed in the future.&nbsp;The cost will be $60 for the instruction which includes one year membership to BYBA.&nbsp;&nbsp;For those who are already members, the cost will be $30.&nbsp;The class will run from 7- 9 pm on those nights.</p><p>Bee School provides aspiring beekeepers and those searching to learn more about honey bees and ways to support pollinators with the basics of beekeeping.</p><p>Beekeepers in the early years of their beekeeping journey will also gain valuable insights from joining in on the lectures and getting the opportunity to network with other like-minded individuals.</p><p>Bee School covers everything from basic honey bee biology, safety issues, types of equipment, evolving roles of the worker bee, honeybee pests &amp; diseases, and more.</p><p>We offer Bee School as the first step in supporting new beekeepers. Our goal is to connect each "graduate" with a mentor, encourage participation in the club's many workshops, and welcome the new members into our monthly "New Bee" Zoom discussions. We hope to see you at our monthly meetings which feature both regional and nationally known speakers on aspects of beekeeping.</p><p>The BYBA is all about education and support.&nbsp;Bee School is one of the best first steps an aspiring beekeeper can take.&nbsp;</p><p>Visit the website to learn more about Bee School and to register =&gt; <a href="https://deref-mail.com/mail/client/kogEXbCh94s/dereferrer/?redirectUrl=https%3A%2F%2Fbackyardbeekeepers.com%2F" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: blue;">https://backyardbeekeepers.com</a></p><p>Contact Paula Wolf at&nbsp;<span style="color: blue;">paulawolf@email.com</span>&nbsp;for more information.</p><p>(Three photos are included below, photo credit ©Paula Wolf.</p>