<p class="ql-align-center"><br></p><p>Weston, CT - The Back Yard Beekeepers Association (BYBA) in Connecticut is proud to present Dr. Diana Cox-Foster, a Research Leader and Entomologist at USDA-ARS Pollinating Insects Research Unit in Utah. This meeting is in person and our speaker will be joining us virtually.&nbsp;There is not an option for participants to join virtually.&nbsp;Please join us at 7 PM to allow time to socialize and chat with other members of the club.&nbsp;Our virtual speaker presentation will begin at 7:30 PM.&nbsp; The location is Norfield Congregational Church located at 64 Norfield Rd in Weston, CT.&nbsp;Even though the event is free, please register at&nbsp;<a href="https://backyardbeekeepers.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(2, 177, 151);">https://backyardbeekeepers.com</a><span style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51);">.</span></p><p>Join us for this exciting deep dive into the fascinating world of bees! This presentation will showcase groundbreaking data from a three-year study exploring the dynamic interactions between honey bees, bumble bees, and solitary bees—an investigation that addresses a critical question: How does a honey bee apiary impact native bee populations?</p><p>"Through innovative cage experiments with limited forage, we created competition between the three bee types, examining how they affect each other’s reproduction and behavior on flowers. This research included experiments on how a large apiary with 48 colonies influences the reproduction of sentinel bumble bee colonies and cavity-nesting solitary bees. We also kept a close eye on local endemic bee species and flowers, all while assessing the impact of viral pathogens on these essential pollinators", remarked Cox-Foster.</p><p>Dr. Cox-Foster, will present additional data&nbsp;on the impacts of viral pathogens in the blue orchard bee (<em>Osmia lignaria</em>), shedding light on how these health challenges affect bee populations.With climate emerging as a key player in the results, she will discuss how the carrying capacity of an area significantly impacts bee health, revealing how various factors interact to shape the well-being of our pollinators.</p><p>Don't miss this chance to hear about cutting-edge bee research and its profound implications for biodiversity and conservation!</p><p>Questions? Contact BYBA’s Paula Wolf at&nbsp;<a href="https://mailto:paulawolf@email.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(2, 177, 151);">paulawolf@email.com</a>.&nbsp;</p><p><em>The Back Yard Beekeepers Association (BYBA) is one of the Nation’s largest regional clubs for beekeeping hobbyists with over 400 members. Some of their members are just getting started as beekeepers, and some have enjoyed this hobby for years. All share an interest in the wonderful and remarkable world of the honey bee. The mission of BYBA is to provide their membership with a forum for sharing knowledge and mutual interests in beekeeping, and to educate and promote the benefits of beekeeping to the public. For more information, please visit&nbsp;</em><a href="https://backyardbeekeepers.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><em>backyardbeekeepers.com</em></a></p>

<p class="ql-align-center"><strong style="color: rgb(24, 25, 26);">FC BUZZ Weekend February 21-23</strong></p><p><span style="color: rgb(24, 25, 26);">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/bevs-bites" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong>Bevs &amp; Bites</strong></a></p><p><strong>Stamford Museum &amp; Nature Center, Stamford</strong></p><p>Friday Feb 21, 6:30 pm - 9:30 pm</p><p>The biggest and most anticipated BevMax Tasting Series event of the year, our signature "feast on foot" is an epicurean exploration featuring unlimited tastings of incredible food and drink.</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, Westport</strong></p><p>Friday Feb 21, 6:30 pm - 8:00 pm</p><p>Join us for an Open Mic night at MoCA CT featuring acoustic music, poetry, and slam poetry. Everyone is invited to participate and attend.</p><p><a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/events/vallenatazo-del-amor" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong>Vallenatazo del Amor</strong></a></p><p><strong>Stamford Center for the Arts, Stamford</strong></p><p>Friday Feb 21, 8:00 pm - 10:00 pm</p><p>José Cruz Productions invites you to a unique event, full of the energy, passion and rhythm of vallenato on a spectacular night. It will be an event that you cannot miss. Get ready to enjoy a musical party for the whole family!</p><p><a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/events/north-county-band-brian-dolzani-band-at-park-city-music-hall" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong>North County Band &amp; Brian Dolzani Band</strong></a></p><p><strong>Park City Music Hall, Bridgeport</strong></p><p>Friday Feb 21, 8:00 pm - 11:00 pm</p><p>North County Band is the creative culmination of Chicago-born singer-songwriter Scott Smith and Texas fiddle sensation, Cat Lines. Together they summoned some of Connecticut's most seasoned and versatile musicians to compliment their songwriting craft &amp; musical prowess and to deliver a unique signature sound. Their debut EP, "Connecticut", is widely regarded as a grass-roots collaborative effort with songs about the Nutmeg State, isolation, challenges of the modern era, and family. </p><p><a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/events/man-of-la-mancha-4d700" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong>Man of La Mancha</strong></a></p><p><strong>Crystal Theatre at Ben Franklin Community Center, Norwalk</strong></p><p>Friday Feb 21, 7:30 pm - 9:45 pm</p><p>Experience Don Quixote's "Impossible Dream" of a better world lived through the imagination in Man of La Mancha, which features a book by Dale Wasserman, music by Mitch Leigh and lyrics by Joe Darion, and is adapted from Wasserman’s 1959 teleplay I, Don Quixote. This in turn was inspired by Miguel de Cervantes and his 17th-century classic Don Quixote.</p><p><a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/events/soundwaves-concert-the-music-of-sir-edward-elgar" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong>Soundwaves Concert: The Music of Sir Edward Elgar</strong></a></p><p><strong>Fairfield Public Library, Fairfield</strong></p><p>Saturday Feb 22, 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm</p><p>Renowned violinist Katie Lansdale and acclaimed pianist Alan Murchie will trace the musical journey of the British Romantic composer as they perform various of his works for violin and piano. There will be refreshments and a chance to meet the musicians after the performance. Generously sponsored by The Friends of Fairfield Public Library.</p><p><a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/events/original-ancestors-with-craig-kelly" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong>Original Ancestors with Craig Kelly</strong></a></p><p><strong>Bridgeport Public Library, Bridgeport</strong></p><p>Saturday Feb 22, 2:00 pm - 3:30 pm</p><p>Bridgeport resident Craig Kelly gives a special presentation on the Mafaa (Swahili for "Great Disaster"), the Holocaust of Slavery and Genocide, and the unknown contributions of Africans and African Americans to the US and the world at large Kelly will also display and explain several artifacts related to African American History from his personal collection.</p><p><a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/events/american-chamber-orchestra-s-winter-concert-february-22-2025" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong>American Chamber Orchestra's Winter Concert</strong></a></p><p><strong>Norwalk Concert Hall, Norwalk</strong></p><p>Saturday Feb 22, 7:30 pm - 9:30 pm</p><p>Come in out of the cold and warm up with our exciting partnership with The Mendelssohn Choir of Connecticut as we present Antonin Dvorak's Te Deum and John Rutter's Requiem. Schubert's Symphony No. 8 is also on the program.</p><p><a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/events/hansel-and-gretel-cc07e" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong>Hansel and Gretel</strong></a></p><p><strong>Downtown Cabaret Theatre, Bridgeport</strong></p><p>Saturday Feb 22, 2:30 pm - 4:30 pm</p><p>Get ready to embark on a deliciously delightful adventure as we journey into the enchanted world of Hansel &amp; Gretel at the Downtown Cabaret Theatre! Join Hansel and Gretel, the brave brother and sister duo, as they venture into the mysterious woods and stumble upon a house made entirely of gingerbread—yes, you heard right, gingerbread! But beware, because lurking within is a tricky witch with a sweet tooth and a mischievous plan. Will Hansel &amp; Gretel outsmart the witch and find their way back home?</p><p><a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/events/the-brian-torff-group-a-tribute-to-black-music" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong>The Brian Torff Group: A Tribute to Black Music</strong></a></p><p><strong>Wilton LIbrary, Wilton</strong></p><p>Sunday Feb 23, 3:00 pm - 4:30 pm</p><p>Join Wilton Library for a live musical celebration of Black History Month with The Brian Torff Group, a collective dedicated to revitalizing the essence of American music. In a program that blends original songs with classic Delta Blues, it will highlight the profound impact of Black music on American culture. Torff's engaging on-stage stories draw from his extensive research on music and race in the Deep South, emphasizing the critical role of Black Music in Blues, Jazz, Country, Rock and Pop. The group will play new interpretations of classic artists such as Bessie Smith, Robert Johnson, B.B. King, Mose Allison and Elvis Presley.</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><strong>Westport Country Playhouse Presents an Evening of Cocktails, Fun Tales, and Backstage Tours on Monday, March 10</strong></p><p>Westport Country Playhouse will present “Get Ready for Theatre People! An Evening of Cocktails, Fun Tales, and Backstage Tours” on Monday, March 10, from 6 to 8 p.m. In advance of the curtain rising on the Playhouse production of Paul Slade Smith’s backstage comedy “Theatre People,” the special event will toast the Playhouse, its legacy, and the people who bring shows to life on its stage.</p><p>Sharing personal anecdotes from their roles at the Playhouse will be an alumni panel, including actors Mia Dillon, Keir Dullea, Joe Delafield, and Michael McCormick, former co-artistic director Anne Keefe, and more to be announced. Moderator will be Mark Shanahan, Westport Country Playhouse artistic director.&nbsp;</p><p>"There’s nothing quite like theatre people—and Playhouse theatre people are in a league of their own!,” said Shanahan. “As we gear up for our wildly entertaining production of ‘Theatre People,’ a play that celebrates the passion, humor, and romance of the stage, I’m thrilled for the Playhouse to host a special evening honoring some of its very own. It’s a night to share stories, laughter, and friendship at a theatre we all cherish.”</p><p>In addition to the panel discussion, there will be behind-the-scenes tours led by Playhouse archivist and historian Bruce Miller, and a cocktail party. Discount ticket offers will be available at the event for performances of “Theatre People.”</p><p>“Theatre People,” playing March 25 through April 12, is written by West Hartford native Paul Slade Smith and directed by Mark Shanahan. The play is an adaptation of Ferenc Molnár’s classic Hungarian farce, “Play at the Castle.” The witty comedy is set in 1948 in a Newport mansion populated with characters in love with theater:&nbsp;Charlotte and Arthur, a married playwwright couple; Margot, a celebrated ingénue; Victor, a narcissistic Broadway baritone; and Oliver, a young, insecure novelist; as well as Olga, an unabashedly unhelpful housekeeper. Filled with romance, misunderstandings, and surprises, the plot focuses on theatre people who are trying to&nbsp;write a surefire Broadway hit but create as much drama among themselves as on paper.</p><p>Tickets for “Get Ready for Theatre People! An Evening of Cocktails, Fun Tales, and Backstage Tours” are&nbsp;$25; $15 for Encore Club members; limited availability. Seating is unreserved. For full details on the March 10 event and the three-week run of “Theatre People,” visit:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.westportplayhouse.org/show/theatre-people/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(70, 120, 134);">https://www.westportplayhouse.org/show/theatre-people/</a></p><p><br></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><br></p><p><strong>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><strong>Westport Board of Ed Chair Lee Goldstein and cast member Linedy Genao will be guest speakers on topic inspired by</strong></p><p><strong>Playhouse production of “Native Gardens.”</strong></p><iframe class="ql-video" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/QCTTwqmiXBg?showinfo=0"></iframe><p><br></p><p>Westport Country Playhouse will present a Sunday Symposium, "Planting Our Gardens – A Conversation about Growing Stronger Together," exploring themes of inclusivity, respect, and equity, on Sunday, February 23, following the 3 p.m. performance of “Native Gardens,” an insightful comedy about neighbors from different cultures who clash over the property line that separates their gardens.</p><p>Guest speakers will be Lee Goldstein, chair, Westport board of education, who will discuss the vital work being done by No Place for Hate, an Anti-Defamation League program designed to improve school climate; and Linedy Genao, “Native Gardens” cast member and the first Latina performer to originate the leading role in an Andrew Lloyd Webber musical on Broadway.&nbsp;</p><p>Inspired by the production of “Native Gardens,” the symposium will delve into cultivating better understanding in shared spaces.</p><p>"Art enables us to see the world as we know it - as well as from other people’s perspectives,” said Goldstein. “And so art is the great empathy builder. Westport Public Schools’ commitment to No Place for Hate also works to nourish our students’ sense of connection, to recognize and celebrate all our shared humanity. I’m so excited to partner with Westport Country Playhouse to discuss this beautiful and funny play, ‘Native Gardens,’ and imagine the seeds we might plant and what we may grow together.”</p><p>Goldstein has been active in education in both her professional and personal life as an educator and an advocate. A graduate of Yale University, she is a former high school English teacher and professional writer/editor. Goldstein served as a member of the board of education in Bedford, NY. Since moving to Westport, she has been active in the PTA at the elementary, middle, and high school levels.</p><p>Genao, a native of Hamden, CT, plays the role of Tania De Valle in “Native Gardens.” She appeared on Broadway in Andrew Lloyd Webber’s “Bad Cinderella” as Cinderella, “On Your Feet!,” and “Dear Evan Hansen.” Genao was named to&nbsp;<em>Variety</em>’s “Broadway Actors to Watch List.”</p><p>Sunday Symposium moderator is Mark Shanahan, Playhouse artistic director. “Our ‘Native Gardens’ symposium offers the perfect opportunity to bring our community together for an open and meaningful conversation,” said Shanahan. “This discussion will explore how we perceive cultural identity, confront bias and bigotry, and recognize the values that unite us as neighbors and fellow citizens. We are honored to welcome Lee Goldstein to our stage to impart the inspiring work of No Place for Hate, an initiative dedicated to fostering awareness and harmony in our schools. Just as in our brilliantly thoughtful and funny current production of ‘Native Gardens,’ the act of sharing personal stories has the power to bridge divides, foster empathy, and help our communities grow. I hope you’ll join us for an informative and uplifting afternoon at the Playhouse.”</p><p>The Symposium will begin at approximately 4:30 p.m., following the 3 p.m. matinee performance of “Native Gardens.” The Playhouse Sunday Symposium program is free and open to the public. The discussion will be followed by an interactive dialogue with the audience.&nbsp;</p><p>“Native Gardens” is&nbsp;written by Karen Zacarías, who was recently hailed by&nbsp;<em>American Theatre&nbsp;</em>magazine as one of the 10 most-produced playwrights in the U.S. Director is JoAnn M. Hunter. The story is about expectant parents Tania and Pablo Del Valle who move in next door to longtime suburbanites Virginia and Frank Butley. A dispute over their yard’s property line spirals into an epic, flower-flinging war over taste, class, personal identity…and gardening. With Pablo’s upcoming office barbecue party threatening the Butleys’ plans for the future of their yard, can these couples ever learn to love their neighbor and mend the fences that separate them?</p><p>Playing February 18 through March 8, “Native Gardens” is the fourth production in the Playhouse’s 2024-25 “Season of Laughter,” a slate of five shows from October through April, chosen specifically to energize the community with a welcoming sense of warmth, humor, and joy.</p><p>The Sunday Symposium Series is supported, in part, by the White Barn Program of the Lucille Lortel Foundation. “Native Gardens” Corporate Supporters are Cindy Raney &amp; Team at Coldwell Banker Global Luxury, LaurelRock, and The Shoreline Wealth Management Group at Morgan Stanley, with additional support from Gilbertie's Garden Center &amp; Gilbertie's Herbs, Westport Farmers’ Market, and Westport Hardware. 2025 Opening Night Post-Show Reception Sponsor is RDM Financial Group at Hightower. 2025 Together at the Table Sponsors are Paige and Jodi Couture, with generous support from Westport Rotary.&nbsp;&nbsp;2025 Programming and Season Sponsor is Barbara Streicker. Media sponsors are Moffly Media and WSHU Public Radio. Westport Country Playhouse is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization.&nbsp;</p><p>For full details, visit:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.westportplayhouse.org/show/native-gardens/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(70, 120, 134);">https://www.westportplayhouse.org/show/native-gardens/</a></p>

<p><strong>The world lost an amazing human and champion for the arts! </strong></p><p>With deep sadness, the Cultural Alliance of Fairfield County (CAFC) and the broader arts community mourn the passing of David Leslie Green, whose leadership and unwavering commitment to the arts left an indelible mark on Fairfield County and beyond. David, former Executive Director of CAFC, passed away on February 10, 2025, in Bridgeport, Connecticut, at the age of 74 due to complications related to cancer, according to his <a href="https://www.legacy.com/us/obituaries/legacyremembers/david-green-obituary?id=57595816" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">obituary</a>.</p><p>David was a passionate advocate for the arts, a dedicated organizer, and a tireless supporter of creative communities. His career spanned decades, strengthening the cultural landscape through leadership roles, innovative programming, and unwavering dedication to artists, nonprofit organizations, and cultural institutions.</p><p><strong>A Legacy of Leadership and Innovation</strong></p><p>David joined CAFC in 2013 as Director of Programs, spearheading initiatives that provided networking, marketing, advocacy, and professional development opportunities to over 600 member cultural organizations, artists, and businesses. His work expanded CAFC's reach through initiatives like the Fairfield County Preservation Network, the Progressive Gallery Tour, and Savor City, a unique series of visits to Bridgeport restaurants showcasing local art and music. From 2017 to 2023, he also organized and hosted over 80 live radio interview shows on WPKN, giving voice and exposure to artists and cultural leaders throughout the county.</p><p>Appointed Executive Director of CAFC in January 2020, David faced the unprecedented challenge of leading during the onset of COVID-19. With remarkable foresight and adaptability, he initiated weekly community calls that provided crucial peer support, emergency funding guidance, and clarity on reopening restrictions, ensuring the arts community remained resilient during a time of uncertainty.</p><p>In May 2023, David was honored with the Hero Award from The Norwalk Art Space in recognition of his enduring contributions to the arts. Even after retiring in September 2023, he continued his advocacy by joining the board of the CT Arts Alliance and working as an independent "culture connector," fostering collaborations that enriched the arts scene. In 2024, he played a pivotal role in launching The HIVE by Beechwood, an initiative designed to create a "Human Pollinator Pathway" across Fairfield County.</p><p><strong>A Life Dedicated to Arts and Culture</strong></p><p>David's passion for the arts extended far beyond Fairfield County. After managing the New York Office for the British American Arts Association in 1984, he worked with the New York Foundation for the Arts (NYFA) before becoming its first Director of Communications. He later served as the founding Executive Director of the National Initiative for a Networked Cultural Heritage, a national advocacy nonprofit in Washington, D.C., bringing together diverse cultural stakeholders to navigate the emerging digital era.</p><p>His expertise led him to consultancy work with organizations such as Wesleyan University, the Andrew W. Mellon Foundation, and the Institute of Museum and Library Services. David also authored numerous publications, including <em>A Museum Guide to Digital Rights Management</em> and various essays on the intersection of digital technology and the arts.</p><p>Born in Cambridge, England, David earned degrees from the University of Warwick, University of London, and Brown University, later receiving an Advanced Certificate in Management and Systems from New York University.</p><p><strong>A Life Well-Lived and Deeply Cherished</strong></p><p>Beyond his professional achievements, David was a devoted husband, father, and lover of the arts. He shared a deep passion for music with his three sons, took frequent trips to museums and architectural landmarks, and nurtured a flourishing garden filled with native plants. His love for nature, family, and culture defined his life as much as his advocacy for the arts.</p><p>David is survived by his wife of 36 years, Maureen Graney; sons Benjamin Leslie Graney Green of Brooklyn, NY, William Frederick Graney Green of Fairfield, CT, and Harold "Harry" David Graney Green of Brooklyn, NY; brother and sister-in-law Paul Trevor Green and Eng-Li Green of Carson, New Mexico; and many beloved in-laws and extended family members. He was predeceased by his parents, George Leslie "Les" Green and Betty Edith (Chambers) Green Bobryk.</p><p>A Celebration of Life will be held in early spring 2025. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial donations be made to The Norwalk Art Space (thenorwalkartspace.org).</p><p>David Green's impact on the arts and cultural community will not be forgotten. His dedication, kindness, and belief in the transformative power of the arts continue to inspire all who had the privilege of working alongside him.</p><p>Read the complete obituary <a href="https://www.legacy.com/us/obituaries/legacyremembers/david-green-obituary?id=57595816" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.legacy.com/us/obituaries/legacyremembers/david-green-obituary?id=57595816</a></p>

<p>The Department of Human Services is pleased to offer a resource to seniors in need of assistance with outdoor chores. Each season, the department compiles a list of local middle and high school students who want to help seniors with various outdoor tasks, such as yard work, snow removal, and other light chores.</p><p>This initiative not only provides seniors with the help they need but also offers local students an opportunity to earn extra money while giving back to the community. The recommended fee is $16.00 per hour but negotiations are between the senior and the student to come to an agreeable arrangement.</p><p><em>For Seniors:</em></p><p>Seniors who require assistance with outdoor chores are encouraged to contact the Westport Department of Human Services at 203-341-1050 or via email at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:humansrv@westportct.gov" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(48, 68, 139); background-color: transparent;">humansrv@westportct.gov</a>.</p><p><em>For Students:</em></p><p>Middle and high school students who are interested in offering their help to seniors and earning extra money are encouraged to reach out to the Department of Human Services at the same contact information. Please note that written permission from a parent or guardian is required for students to participate in the program.</p><p>The Department of Human Services is proud to facilitate this intergenerational program, bringing together community members to help one another. For more information or to participate, please contact the Department of Human Services at 203-341-1050 or email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:humansrv@westportct.gov" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(48, 68, 139); background-color: transparent;">humansrv@westportct.gov</a>.</p>