<p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">In a heartwarming feature on the Kelly Clarkson Show today, December 19, 2024, Ridgefield’s own Prospector shone brightly on a national stage. Celebrating its mission to employ adults with disabilities, the theater inspired millions as founder Valerie Jensen, shared the theater’s journey and purpose. </span></p><iframe class="ql-video" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/vidkAkfFYR8?showinfo=0"></iframe><p><br></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Dressed in a shimmering green gown, Val captivated viewers, recounting how her sister Hope, who has Down syndrome, inspired her to challenge the reality that 80% of people with disabilities in the U.S. are unemployed. "It’s so sad that so many doors remain shut for people with disabilities," Val said. Her vision for a better future began at a stoplight in Ridgefield, where she spotted a building slated for demolition. Imagining a space full of light, inclusivity, and opportunity, Val opened The Prospector Theater—a vibrant, one-of-a-kind movie theater that now employs 125 people, 75% of whom have disabilities.</span></p><h3><span style="color: rgb(67, 67, 67); background-color: transparent;">Breaking Stereotypes and Creating Sweet Work</span></h3><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">As Val explained, Prospects—what employees are proudly called—handle every aspect of the theater's operations, from box office to gourmet popcorn production. Kelly Clarkson tried the theater’s celebrated popcorn, sampling Belgian Chocolate Toffee and Peppermint Bark, delighting in both the flavors and the jobs they represent. "This is sweet work!" Val proclaimed, highlighting how Prospector Popcorn is not just a snack but a means of empowerment for their team.</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">During the episode, Kelly spotlighted the theater’s holiday tradition: The Sparkle Awards, described by Val as "The Academy Awards but better." Every holiday season, employees don their sparkliest attire to celebrate one another’s achievements, fostering camaraderie and joy.</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Val issued a heartfelt call to action to employers nationwide: “Look to the incredible talent pool of people with disabilities in your community. They want to work, can work, and do a great sparkle job.”</span></p><h3><span style="color: rgb(67, 67, 67); background-color: transparent;">Stories of Transformation and Inspiration</span></h3><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Two Prospects joined Val on the stage to share their stories.</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">K Mann, who has worked at the theater for 10 years, said he thrives in his role, which spans concessions, popcorn-making, and ensuring teamwork among staff. Married to his wife Cindy, also a fellow Prospect, K Mann credited his job for contributing to his happiness and financial independence.</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Stacy, a Prospect for three years, shared her motto: “Don’t let your disabilities define you; let your disabilities inspire you.” Stacy, who is visually impaired, is a Service Learning team member, engaging students in disability education. She is also the cheerful voice behind Prospector Theater’s popcorn jingle, which she performed to enthusiastic cheers.</span></p><h3><span style="color: rgb(67, 67, 67); background-color: transparent;">Holiday Cheer and a $25,000 Surprise</span></h3><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Ryan, the Prospector’s Executive Director, delivered an emotional tribute, commending Val, K Mann, and Stacy for their work and resilience. “The Prospector is a movement,” he declared, emphasizing how the organization is breaking stereotypes and proving the value people with disabilities bring to society.</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">In a thrilling finale, Kelly announced that Kroger, a company committed to inclusivity, would be donating $25,000 to support The Prospector’s mission. An elf dashed onstage with an oversized check, drawing cheers, smiles, and tears of joy from the audience and Prospects alike.</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">The Prospector’s feature closed out the hour-long episode in grand style, leaving viewers inspired by its sparkle-filled message.</span></p><h3><span style="color: rgb(67, 67, 67); background-color: transparent;">Watch the Full Segment</span></h3><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Relive the magic by watching the full episode on</span><a href="https://www.nbc.com/the-kelly-clarkson-show/video/white-christmas-by-jonathan-mcreynolds-kelly-clarkson-show-cameo-oke/ACCN492421899" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204); background-color: transparent;"> The Kelly Clarkson Show</a><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">.</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Visit the Prospector at</span><a href="https://www.prospectortheater.org/home" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204); background-color: transparent;"> prospectortheater.org</a><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;"> to learn more about its mission, popcorn, and ongoing efforts to change the world, one sparkle at a time.</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">*Image courtesy The Prospector</span></p>

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

<h2>Why Small Businesses Matter</h2><p><em>Shop small, do big things for your community</em></p><p>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!</p><p>Meet Jill Brody, the founder of <a href="https://www.jilllynnandco.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(2, 177, 151);">Jill Lynn &amp; Co </a> and SHOP stunning jewelry for the holidays!</p><p><strong>Why did you start your business?&nbsp;</strong></p><p>When I was 19 I took my love for jewelry, gemstones and handmade items and turned it into a business that is Jill Lynn &amp; Co, Fine Jewelry &amp; Custom Designs.&nbsp;</p><p><strong>What is your best-selling product/service?&nbsp;</strong></p><p>My best-selling product is my one-of-a-kind colored gemstone rings. Our best-selling services are ear piercing and redesigning or upcycling clients' jewelry into something new and ear piercing.</p><p><strong>Have you "reimagined" your small business?&nbsp;</strong></p><p>I just opened Jill Lynn &amp; Co here in Wilton Ct and I’m able to offer the community a place to shop one-of-a-kind fine jewelry created by a jewelry designer, work with clients one one-on-one with your redesign jewelry needs, repairs, vintage jewelry restoration, gem identification, appraisals, ear piercing and offering kids jewelry classes. Everything jewelry!&nbsp;</p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Visit Jill Lynn &amp; Co at 95 Old Ridgefield Road, 2nd Floor in Wilton.</span></p><p><a href="https://www.jilllynnandco.com/wilton-studio" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204); background-color: transparent;">Learn More Here</a></p><p>Visit the shop online&nbsp;<a href="http://www.jilllynnandco.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(2, 177, 151);">www.jilllynnandco.com</a>&nbsp;or email<strong>&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://mailto:jilllynnco@gmail.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(2, 177, 151);">jilllynnco@gmail.com</a>. Follow Jill Lynn &amp; Co on Instagram at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.instagram.com/jilllynnco/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(2, 177, 151);">jilllynnco</a></p><p><strong>HamletHub thanks</strong><a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=http://www.jkinfordbeautygroup.com/&amp;sa=D&amp;source=editors&amp;ust=1658238881436694&amp;usg=AOvVaw39W0bJpATtDqE_cBmJU58x" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(2, 177, 151);"><strong>&nbsp;</strong></a><a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.fairfieldcountybank.com/&amp;sa=D&amp;source=editors&amp;ust=1658238881437096&amp;usg=AOvVaw3RsWKp-KhAsGejMtOWDanG" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(2, 177, 151);"><strong>Fairfield County Bank&nbsp;</strong></a><strong>for making our Why Small Businesses Matter series possible!</strong></p>

<p class="ql-align-center"><strong style="color: rgb(24, 25, 26);">FC Buzz Weekend December 20-22</strong></p><p>HamletHub is proud to partner with the Cultural Alliance of Fairfield County and FCBuzz to Elevate Arts and Culture in Fairfield County! Each week, look for a listing of weekend events and activities. The Cultural Alliance of Fairfield County celebrates the vibrancy and diversity of the arts and culture across 15 towns in coastal Fairfield County. Sign up to receive a free eBuzz newsletter with top picks and spotlight events from the hundreds of events posted on FCBuzz.</p><p><a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/events/polar-express-night" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong>Polar Express Night</strong></a></p><p><strong>Wilton Historical Society</strong></p><p>Friday Dec 20, 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm</p><p>All aboard for an enchanting evening! The Wilton Historical Society invites families to join them for Polar Express Night, a special event filled with holiday cheer and unforgettable experiences. Guests will gather around for a cozy reading of this timeless children’s classic, bringing the story to life in a festive setting. After the story, craft your own keepsake “Believe” Bell Ornament to take home as a memory of this special night, and remember as you ring the bell you can keep the spirit of the holidays alive!</p><p><a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/events/1940s-christmas-by-candlelight-tours-of-the-coley-house-13b9d" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong>1940s Christmas by Candlelight Tours of the Coley House</strong></a></p><p><strong>Weston History &amp; Culture Center</strong></p><p>Friday Dec 20, 6:00 pm - 7:00 pm</p><p>Explore a World War II home front Christmas at the Coley House. With only holiday lights and candlelight, take a guided tour through this mid-19th century farmhouse, decorated as it would have been during the 1940s, when the last three generations of the Coley family occupied the home. View authentic 1930s and 1940s holiday decorations. Learn how World War II impacted holiday celebrations in America. Taste wartime Holiday ration recipes, and listen to original radio broadcasts featuring Bing Crosby and Judy Garland, all by candlelight.</p><p><a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/events/jingle-all-the-way-with-music-on-the-hill" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong>Jingle All the Way with Music on the Hill</strong></a></p><p><strong>Wilton Historical Society</strong></p><p>Saturday Dec 21, 2:00 pm - 3:00 pm</p><p>Join Music on the Hill Holiday Handbells and Children’s Chorus for a festive singalong and jingle bell bracelet craft. Perfect for all ages!</p><p><a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/events/irving-berlin-s-white-christmas-the-musical-e34bd" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong>Irving Berlin's White Christmas The Musical</strong></a></p><p><strong>Music Theatre of CT</strong></p><p>Sunday Dec 22, 2:00 pm - 3:30 pm</p><p>White Christmas follows WWII veterans Bob Wallace and Phil Davis, a successful song-and-dance duo who meet the talented Haynes sisters, Betty and Judy. The men follow the sisters to their holiday show at a Vermont inn, only to discover it's owned by their former commander, General Waverley, who’s struggling to keep it afloat. To help, they plan a spectacular show with the sisters and the inn’s staff, sparking romance and holiday cheer along the way. Featuring Irving Berlin classics like “Blue Skies,” “I Love a Piano,” and the beloved “White Christmas,” this heartwarming musical is a festive celebration of love and friendship for all ages.</p><p><a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/events/let-s-celebrate-worldwide-3ae2b" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong>Let's Celebrate! Worldwide</strong></a></p><p><strong>Stepping Stones Museum for Children</strong></p><p>Sunday Dec 22, 9:00 am - 5:00 pm</p><p>It’s the most wonderful time of the year! A joyful exploration of holiday traditions from around the globe. Experience the warmth of Thanksgiving through giving and gathering, discover the wonder of international fables and folktales and enjoy a special countdown to 2025 as we learn how other cultures ring in the new year.</p><p><a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/events/16th-annual-greenwich-reindeer-festival-santa-s-workshop-presented-by-jenny-allen-at-compass-real-estate-07c96" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong>16th Annual Greenwich Reindeer Festival &amp; Santa’s Workshop</strong></a></p><p><strong>Sam Bridge Nursery &amp; Greenhouses</strong></p><p>Sunday Dec 22, 9:00 am - 6:00 pm</p><p>The cherished town tradition continues for the sixteenth consecutive year at this expansive nursery where visitors can have their photo taken with Santa, meet the reindeer and also enjoy Santa’s Workshop. Guests can enjoy the “Reindeer Coloring Station" and "Letter Writing to Santa Station" while waiting in line for their photo with Santa. A portion of all photos with Santa will be donated to Kids In Crisis, a non-profit organization based in Greenwich, but serves all of Connecticut. A Kids In Crisis Giving Tree will also be available for people to support their important mission.</p><p><a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/events/rowayton-arts-center-holiday-gift-show-01c37" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong>Holiday Gift Show</strong></a></p><p><strong>Rowayton Arts Center</strong></p><p>Sunday Dec 22, 12:00 pm - 5:00 pm</p><p>The annual Holiday Gift Show at the Rowayton Arts Center (RAC) transforms the gallery into a shopping wonderland with original, handcrafted items and artwork from November 29 to December 24. Shop one-of-a-kind gifts by local artists: original cards, prints, paintings, ornaments, jewelry, ceramics, and knitted items galore by over 50 artists/artisans. Proceeds from the Holiday Gift Show are used to support RAC and its educational outreach.</p><p>See these and discover hundreds more events on the <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>Save the Date: Community Cultural Celebration</strong></p><p>Mark your calendars for a vibrant <strong>Community Cultural Celebration</strong> on <strong>May 3rd</strong> at the Riverbrook Regional YMCA!</p><p>This special event will highlight the diverse cultures that shape our community through captivating <strong>dance, music, traditional attire, holidays, and food</strong> from around the world. It's an opportunity to celebrate the richness of our town’s heritage and enjoy a journey of cultural discovery together.</p><p>If you’d like to participate, we invite you to work with a group to create a display representing your country of origin or a country with a heritage you feel closely connected to.</p><p><strong>Submit your interest by January 10th</strong> by <a href="https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScYplKPr_9V4fri5oI2WMOL3WV5-eCyXN8yhsUJ86lWXQbQ9Q/viewform?pli=1&amp;pli=1" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">filling out this form</a>.</p><p>We look forward to seeing you at this exciting celebration of culture and community!</p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><br></p>

<p>The Wilton Historical Society invites families to experience the magic of <em>Polar Express Night</em>, a special event sure to fill hearts with holiday cheer. Join us on <strong>Friday, December 20th</strong>, or <strong>Friday, December 27th</strong>, from <strong>6:00 PM to 8:00 PM</strong>, for an unforgettable celebration featuring <em>The Polar Express</em> and the <em>Great Trains Holiday Show</em>.</p><p>Event Highlights:</p><ul><li><strong>Storytime Magic</strong>: Gather around for a cozy reading of <em>The Polar Express</em>, a beloved children’s classic brought to life in a festive and heartwarming setting.</li><li><strong>Craft a Keepsake</strong>: Create your very own “Believe” Bell Ornament to take home. As the bell rings, let it remind you to keep the holiday spirit alive!</li><li><strong>Explore the Great Trains Holiday Show</strong>: Cap the night with a special late-night viewing of the train display, glowing under twinkle lights. This annual tradition includes a miniature <em>Polar Express</em> train and sparks joy for visitors of all ages.</li></ul><p>Festive Treats:</p><p>Guests can enjoy complimentary popcorn and hot cocoa—warming treats that pair perfectly with the holiday spirit and the whimsical world of <em>The Polar Express</em>.</p><p>This evening is the perfect way to celebrate the holiday season with family and friends.</p><p><strong>Ticket Information</strong>:</p><ul><li><strong>WHS Members</strong>: $20 per person, or $50 per family</li><li><strong>Non-Members</strong>: $30 per person, or $75 per family</li><li><em>Children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.</em></li></ul><p>Space is limited. Tickets are required for one of the two evenings. Don’t miss the train—choose the date that works best for you!</p><p>To register, visit <a href="https://wiltonhistorical.org/events/event/polar-express-night" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://wiltonhistorical.org/events/event/polar-express-night/</a></p><p>The <strong>Great Trains Holiday Show</strong> is generously supported by Ellen M. Essman CPA &amp; Associates, Eversource, Lynne Murphy Realtor at Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices, and RVNAhealth.</p><p>Learn more <a href="https://wiltonhistorical.org/events/event/polar-express-night" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://wiltonhistorical.org/events/event/polar-express-night/</a></p>