Wilton's HamletHub https://news.hamlethub.com/wilton Mon, 27 Mar 2023 06:18:30 -0400 HamletHub.com FC Buzz Weekend of Art and Culture in Fairfield County March 24-26 https://news.hamlethub.com/wilton/events/52773-fc-buzz-weekend-of-art-and-culture-in-fairfield-county-march-24-2652773-fc-buzz-weekend-of-art-and-culture-in-fairfield-county-march-24-26 https://news.hamlethub.com/wilton/events/52773-fc-buzz-weekend-of-art-and-culture-in-fairfield-county-march-24-2652773-fc-buzz-weekend-of-art-and-culture-in-fairfield-county-march-24-26

FC Buzz Weekend March 24-26

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 the 15 towns in our region of coastal Fairfield County and each Wednesday issues our free eBuzz newsletter with a selection of the hundreds of events posted to our website.

Acoustic Alchemy

FTC StageOne, Fairfield

Friday, Marcy 24, 7:45 pm

This Grammy-nominated band is known for playing a distinctive blend of jazz, classical, flamenco, and new age. Top Ten Billboard jazz albums include The Beautiful Game, Grammy-nominated AArt, and Roseland, the latter of which marked the group's 30th anniversary. If you are into sophisticated instrumentals, this one’s for you.

“Pinky Patel: New Crown, Who Dhis Tour”

The Ridgefield Playhouse

Friday, March 24, 8:00 - 9:30 pm 

Get ready for hilarious commentary from the PTA mom turned creator, comedian and personality with a TikTok fan base of over 5 million. Pinky is best known for her viral videos from her glam cave. Don’t miss this fresh new comedian as she makes her Playhouse debut!

Cold “Year of the Spider” 20th Anniversary Tour

Wall Street Theater, Norwalk

Friday, March 24, 8:00 - 10:00 pm

Who’s ready to rock? These hard rockers  and nu-metal champions are featured on a dynamic 4-band bill that includes Divide the Fall, Awake for Days, Sygnal to Noise and Death Valley Dreams. It’s a live peek of the new album that hit No. 3 on the Billboard Top 200, on its way to Gold.

The Garden Shed

The MAC – Milford Arts Council

Saturday, March 25, 6:30 - 9:30 pm

Be the first to witness Connecticut's best up and coming bands, artists, and fashion presented by MC Doozy. This multi-genre show includes acts ranging from punk, to RnB, Indie and rock. Featuring: Pond View, Amar, Esmer, Brooke Dougan, SB Khi, with guest performer Edwin Camille. 

Bushwhacked! and Other Short Plays by Rosemary Foley

Greenwich Theatre Company

Saturday, March 25, 7:30 pm and Sunday, March 26, 2:00 pm

Celebrate Women’s History Month by entering the unique world of legendary local comedic playwright Rosemary Foley - featuring six absurd, satirical and darkly-funny short plays, along with three intimate monologues about Rosemary's life. Rosemary is a decades-long member of Connecticut's Theatre Artists Workshop, where she workshopped many of the plays in this production. 

Family Time at the Museum

The Norwalk Art Space 

Sunday, March 26, 12:00 - 2:00 pm

Calling all families! Experience a deeper understanding about how museums and art can be fun and meaningful through observation, drawing and sharing. This free event is open to students ages 11 and up | 16 spots per class | Registration required.

“In Light Of” Art Exhibit

Metro Art Studios, Bridgeport

Sunday, March 26, 12:00 - 4:00 pm

Don’t miss this stunning exhibit playing on light and dark, textures, and materials - dealing with themes of perception, environment, connection, and separation; many serene on the surface with depth and undercurrents for the viewer to explore. Participating artists include Tamara Dimitri, Nadia Martinez, and Debbie Smith. On view through May 6th in the ground floor Crown Gallery, Thursdays through Saturdays, 12-4 pm.

“Camera Works” Walk and Talk

Ridgefield Guild of Artists

Sunday, March 26, 2:00 - 4:00  pm

It’s the final view of this popular exhibit with a Walk and Talk featuring four of the participating artists in this year's show: Ralph Baskin, Debra Burger, Andrew Graham, and Phillip Stark. Come and hear them speak about their methods and inspirations.

“Norwalk Symphony Meets Beethoven”

Norwalk Concert Hall

Sunday, March 26, 3:00 - 5:00 pm

Members of the Norwalk Symphony will sit side-by-side with members of the Norwalk Youth Symphony's Principal Orchestra for this performance. Featuring the 2021 Concerto Competition Winner, Sadie Goodman, with Georges Hues' Fantasie for Flute and Orchestra and Beatrice Low performing the 1st movement of Wieniawski's Violin Concerto #2. Also on the program: Beethoven's Egmont Overture and Symphony No. 6. 

See these and discover hundreds more events on the FCBUZZ EVENTS page at https://culturalalliancefc.org Sign up for the Cultural Alliance eBuzz to receive top picks and spotlights each week in your inbox.

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kerry@ducey.org (Lorie Lewis) Events Fri, 24 Mar 2023 12:23:46 -0400
Wilton Library Presents Two Art Exhibitions in April https://news.hamlethub.com/wilton/neighbors/52772-wilton-library-presents-two-art-exhibitions-in-april52772-wilton-library-presents-two-art-exhibitions-in-april https://news.hamlethub.com/wilton/neighbors/52772-wilton-library-presents-two-art-exhibitions-in-april52772-wilton-library-presents-two-art-exhibitions-in-april

 Colorful and diverse works of women artists to be featured throughout the library

Wilton Library is pleased to present two art exhibitions for the month of April. The exhibition "Nancy Moore: Women and Other Animals" features the colorful and fanciful works of painter Nancy Moore from Ridgefield. 

The paintings will be on display in the library's gallery and in the Circulation and Reference Departments. The exhibit "Peeling the Onion," a special collaboration between painter Colleen Hains, photographer Heidi Mangels, and poet Jane Wenk, all from Norwalk, will be featured in the Reference Department Computer Room. The opening reception on Friday, April 14 from 6 to 7:30pm is free and open to the public.

“We are excited because this is the first time the library will present two art exhibitions simultaneously, featuring the diverse work of four women,” said Ed MacEwen, Art Chairman of Wilton Library. “Nancy Moore’s paintings are fantastic and incredibly imaginative. And we have never hosted an exhibit like “Peeling the Onion” before, a unique collaboration weaving together the three creative perspectives of Colleen Hains, Heidi Mangels, and Jane Wenk. This is actually the first time the library has showcased the creative efforts of only women artists, and we plan to follow up with a companion exhibition of paintings by men in the fall.”

The artists come from a range of backgrounds:

Nancy Moore is self-taught and proud of that, reveling in the distortion of body proportions and perspective in her work. Her goal is to create narratives from emotion and instinct, hoping to translate what bubbles up in her mind, through her hand, and onto the paper. She paints predominantly on large slices of beautiful archival paper, choosing to work with watercolor, graphite, gouache, metallic paint, colored pencil, wax crayon, and wood burner. Her themes include transformation, ethnography, design, shape-shifting, gender identity, evolution, fashion, and creation myth. In 2005, Moore was invited to exhibit her paintings of the animal world at the opening of the Environmental Sciences Center at Yale University’s Peabody Museum. What was supposed to be a 3-week-long exhibition ended up running for one year. Her scope has continued to expand, with work widely exhibited in galleries, museums, and other public institutions. Her paintings also hang in many private homes, from Vermont to California. To see more of Nancy Moore’s work, visit www.nancymooreart.com.

Colleen Rose Hains has been painting for 40 years, and her mentor was Rayma Spaulding, a Hudson River Valley painter. Colleen paints to capture the true meaning and feeling of her subjects. She enjoys painting animals because “their eyes make [her] melt” and she thrives on capturing people on canvas because the different faces fascinate her. She enjoys creating landscapes because there is “so much color to play around with” and she enjoys the understanding of the places. Colleen studied art at the University of Connecticut and she owns and operates Art Masters of Silvermine, which is a creative venture that focuses on teaching children and Alzheimer/dementia/seniors the joy of art. She is currently running an oil painting portrait project called “Women Over 50 in their Natural Beauty.” This show will be introduced in May 2024.

Heidi Mangels has loved photography as far back as she can remember. As a child her love of being behind a camera was born with a Kodak Instamatic taking photos of her family and pets. Over time she transitioned to a Konica TC Autoreflex and shot scores of photos - landscapes, seascapes, still life, animals, and events. With the advent of mobile phones, the convenience of having a camera available to capture a moment in time became much easier. To Mangels, there’s something about a photograph that can transport a viewer. As with a painting, everyone who views a photograph has their own perspective, with the image conveying a different meaning or feeling to each person. All of her photos in “Peeling the Onion” are as they were shot with her Android LG G6 phone. None are retouched. Mangels holds degrees from Norwalk Community Technical College and University of Connecticut. Some of her photos are included in the 2023 Norwalk and Darien Town Planner Calendars.

For decades, Jane Wenk has enjoyed penning and presenting celebratory tributes to family and friends, and some strangers, on their special occasions. She is also adept at composing gift poems for others to celebrate their loved ones, and happy to do so. In limerick style, with singsong rhymes and humor, she has celebrated and sent accolades pointing out the accomplishments, character, styles, and idiosyncrasies of the recipients. She says it is nice to have something to offer at an event and that it has been a great way to stay connected in a positive and useful way. As a lifelong outdoor enthusiast, one of her favorite parts of the “Peeling the Onion” exhibit is its focus on nature. Grace Farms Library, New Canaan was her go to spot to write the selections for the exhibit - a “lovely place to be inspired.” Jane Wenk is presently the Program Manager and Meals on Wheels Coordinator at the Norwalk Senior Center and has a B.A. from Hartwick College in Oneonta, NY.

The exhibitions run through Saturday, April 29. A majority of the works are available for purchase with a portion of the proceeds benefiting the library. Wilton Library hours are Monday through Thursday, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Friday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; and Sunday, 1 to 5 p.m. The library will be closed on Sunday, April 9 for the Easter holiday.

Wilton Library is located at 137 Old Ridgefield Road in the heart of Wilton Center. For more information, please visit www.wiltonlibrary.org or call (203) 762-3950. 

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kerry@ducey.org (Nuchada Julavits) Neighbors Fri, 24 Mar 2023 12:19:02 -0400
RVNAhealth Wellness Fair at ERMS TOMORROW! Free health screenings, medical experts, and more! https://news.hamlethub.com/wilton/events/52771-rvnahealth-wellness-fair-at-erms-on-march-25-free-health-screenings-medical-experts-and-more-167865723852771-rvnahealth-wellness-fair-at-erms-on-march-25-free-health-screenings-medical-experts-and-more-1678657238 https://news.hamlethub.com/wilton/events/52771-rvnahealth-wellness-fair-at-erms-on-march-25-free-health-screenings-medical-experts-and-more-167865723852771-rvnahealth-wellness-fair-at-erms-on-march-25-free-health-screenings-medical-experts-and-more-1678657238

Join RVNAhealth for our 48th Annual Wellness Fair on March 25th!

The Annual RVNAhealth Wellness Fair is a mission-driven community event that provides expertise from head to toe. The Fair features a range of free health screenings; a field of medical experts and professionals (available for Q & A) and valuable information.
 
We will have a range of health experts to speak to including Doctors, a Registered Dietitian, and Registered Nurses with a range of specialties; Physical, Occupational, and Speech Therapists; Hospice Specialists; Caregiving and Aging in Place Experts.
 
All services at the wellness fair are free of charge and open to the public!
 
Registration is not required, but recommended.
 
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kerry@ducey.org (RVNAhealth) Events Fri, 24 Mar 2023 09:34:00 -0400
RVNAhealth Proudly Introduces the Parkinson’s Center https://news.hamlethub.com/wilton/life/52756-rvnahealth-proudly-introduces-the-parkinson-s-center52756-rvnahealth-proudly-introduces-the-parkinson-s-center https://news.hamlethub.com/wilton/life/52756-rvnahealth-proudly-introduces-the-parkinson-s-center52756-rvnahealth-proudly-introduces-the-parkinson-s-center

RVNAhealth proudly announces the opening of the RVNAhealth Parkinson’s Center, located at 27 Governor Street, Ridgefield.

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is the second-most common neurodegenerative disease after Alzheimer's disease, affecting an estimated 10,000 people in CT, with the incidence of newly diagnosed cases rising. With the opening of its Center, RVNAhealth aims to become a premier and integral Parkinson’s resource to those diagnosed, their caregivers, and medical teams.

The Parkinson’s Resource Gap

Gigi Weiss, MSPT, CADDCT, LSVT BIG, AIB-VR, Parkinson’s Center Director, explained the importance of this new RVNAhealth community resource, “People with Parkinson’s and their and families are frustrated! We’ve heard numerous stories from patients who felt somewhat stranded and confused after their PD diagnosis. Truth of the matter is that a playbook for Parkinson’s doesn’t exist and there are very limited local resources available to help. At RVNAhealth, we realized we had the ability to fill this gap and make a difference in the lives of the PD community. Many do not realize that they can effectively slow the progression of Parkinson’s disease with the proper tools, resources, education, and support. We are here to provide that Parkinson’s support to the whole patient – mind, body, spiritual – with these needs met all in one place.”

About the RVNAhealth Parkinson’s Center

The RVNAhealth Parkinson’s Center is a multi-disciplinary team, certified through the Parkinson’s Foundation, that works together to help each center member from all angles of health. The rehabilitation team consists of physical therapists, physical therapist assistants, occupational therapists, and speech and language pathologists – all LSVT BIG and LSVT LOUD certified. Additional resources of the Parkinson’s Center include a dedicated medical doctor, registered nurse, and registered dietitian; a team of mental health professionals, including social work and spiritual care; a resource library comprised of local and national resources; a video library of exercises and support tools; a monthly newsletter; and access to the RVNAhealth Continuum of Services.

Kate Campbell, DPT, SCS, Cert. MDT, CSCS, LSVT BIG, Parkinson’s Center Program Manager, provided more details, “The Parkinson’s Center aims to become a central resource to help develop, coordinate, and support the best possible proactive attack against Parkinson’s disease for our members. Here, people with Parkinson’s will take control of a difficult diagnosis with the help of trained specialists to support them, their caregiver and family. In addition to supporting our members and family, we look forward to partnering with the medical community to develop the most needed programs to support their Parkinson’s patients.”

The Center is comprised of three main components: exercise classes led by physical therapists; monthly programs, including support groups to address mental health, activities to promote social engagement, and education on disease awareness and management; and “PD Bootcamp”. Campbell described RVNAhealth’s unique PD Bootcamp, “PD Bootcamp is an eight-week intensive program that leads the person with Parkinson’s through bi-weekly exercise classes and one-on-one sessions with members of the Parkinson’s Center interdisciplinary clinical team to create an individualized care plan to help them continue living their best life with Parkinson's.”

RVNAhealth’s Parkinson’s Center Kickoff Starts in April!

April officially kicks off the opening of the Parkinson’s Center with a few key community events, including an exercise lecture on April 6th at the Ridgefield Library and a cooking class on April 12th at RVNAhealth--all focused on Parkinson’s disease. All event and registration details can be found online through the RVNAhealth calendar at rvnahealth.org/calendar.

On April 20th, RVNAhealth will host a “Welcome to the Parkinson’s Center” event at its offices in Ridgefield. Attendees will meet the entire team, experience short lecture discussions, and learn more about what the RVNAhealth Parkinson’s Center has planned. Vendors with Parkinson’s-related offerings and expertise will also be available. Details and registration can be found on our website calendar or by contacting us at 203.438.5555 x1082. You may also learn more about the Parkinson’s Center at rvnahealth.org/parkinsonscenter.

Theresa Santoro, MSN, RN, CHCA, President and CEO of RVNAhealth, “I am extremely proud of the work our team has put into creating this much-needed program for those affected by Parkinson’s. The Parkinson’s Center is an excellent example of how we continue to grow and evolve in our mission to serve the lifelong health and wellness needs of our communities. We look forward to sharing our Parkinson’s Center with those affected and giving each person and their family the tools and confidence to live their best life.”

RVNAhealth is a private, non-profit, mission-driven organization founded and focused on care and dedicated to serving the lifelong health and wellness needs of individuals in the 35+ communities we serve across Connecticut. While our name and services have evolved since our founding as a home health care agency in 1914, our guiding principles have remained steadfast: a mission to serve, exceptional patient care, and a commitment to excellence in quality and service.

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kerry@ducey.org (Lisa Fleming) Life Thu, 23 Mar 2023 02:33:16 -0400
Woodcock Nature Center's Frothy Forage on April 29 https://news.hamlethub.com/wilton/events/52769-frothy-forage52769-frothy-forage https://news.hamlethub.com/wilton/events/52769-frothy-forage52769-frothy-forage

A good hike should be savored…. and so should a great beer.

Why not do both at the same time?

Bring the whole family for a one-of-a-kind hiking and tasting experience at Woodcock Nature Center on April 29! Tickets go on sale March 29 and can be purchased here.

At secret locations along the Woodcock trails we'll delight your senses with all new craft brews and sweet sips for all ages plus animal encounters, treats and treasure hunts, live music and food for purchase from the Redding Roadhouse food truck. Even furry family members will enjoy some goodies along the trek courtesy of Ridgefield Pet.

Trek, taste and discover with us!

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woodcocknaturecenter@yahoo.com (Woodcock Nature Center) Events Wed, 22 Mar 2023 08:39:20 -0400
Wilton resident, baseball writer Tyler Kepner to speak at Ridgefield Library on March 30! https://news.hamlethub.com/wilton/events/52770-wilton-resident-baseball-writer-tyler-kepner-to-speak-at-ridgefield-library-on-march-3052770-wilton-resident-baseball-writer-tyler-kepner-to-speak-at-ridgefield-library-on-march-30 https://news.hamlethub.com/wilton/events/52770-wilton-resident-baseball-writer-tyler-kepner-to-speak-at-ridgefield-library-on-march-3052770-wilton-resident-baseball-writer-tyler-kepner-to-speak-at-ridgefield-library-on-march-30

Get ready for the 2023 baseball season! Come meet New York Times national baseball writer Tyler Kepner at the Ridgefield Library on Thursday, March 30th at 7:00 pm. He will discuss his latest book: The Grandest Stage: A History of the World Series.

Tyler Kepner has been The Times’s national baseball writer since 2010. He joined The Times in 2000 and covered the Mets for two seasons then covered the Yankees from 2002 to 2009.

Mr. Kepner attended Vanderbilt University on the Grantland Rice/Fred Russell sportswriting scholarship, then covered the Angels for the Riverside (Calif.) Press-Enterprise and the Mariners for the Seattle Post-Intelligencer before joining The Times. A native of Philadelphia, he started covering baseball as a teenager, interviewing hundreds of players for a homemade magazine that was featured in The Times in 1989.

He lives with his wife and four children in Wilton, Connecticut, and is the author of the best-selling K: A History of Baseball In Ten Pitches (2019) and The Grandest Stage: A History of the World Series (Oct. 11, 2022) for Doubleday.

Books on the Common will have books for purchase and signing.

Please register to attend.

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kerry@ducey.org (Ridgefield Librar) Events Wed, 22 Mar 2023 08:36:31 -0400
Wilton Historical Society Presents: The Long Road Toward LGBTQ+ Rights and Equality in the United States https://news.hamlethub.com/wilton/events/52768-wilton-historical-society-presents-the-long-road-toward-lgbtq-rights-and-equality-in-the-united-states52768-wilton-historical-society-presents-the-long-road-toward-lgbtq-rights-and-equality-in-the-united-states https://news.hamlethub.com/wilton/events/52768-wilton-historical-society-presents-the-long-road-toward-lgbtq-rights-and-equality-in-the-united-states52768-wilton-historical-society-presents-the-long-road-toward-lgbtq-rights-and-equality-in-the-united-states

In the 16th year of the collaboration between Wilton Library and the Wilton Historical Society, the scholarly lecture series will focus on the theme of “A Rocky Road: The Struggle for Rights in America.”

The Long Road Toward LGBTQ+ Rights and Equality in the United States will take place on Sunday, March 26, from 4:00pm - 5:30pm

During this program, Kelly Marino, Lecturer in History at Sacred Heart University, will discuss the history of the modern LGBTQ+ rights movement in the United States beginning in the mid-20th century. In her presentation, she will consider the transition from the homophile campaign to the gay liberation movement. She will talk about interconnections with other social and political campaigns in the 1960s and 70s, the activism and ideology of the movement, the culture of the Sexual Revolution, and the influence of key events such as Stonewall. Her discussion will help to provide context for current events making headlines today.

Register HERE.

Reception following the talk. No charge but a $10 suggested donation is always welcomed. Click here to donate. This lecture sponsored by Virginia and Tom Gunther. The moderator is Steve Hudspeth.

Registration required. Please register for each lecture individually. To register for this session please click the Sign Up button or call 203-762-6334. This lecture will be held at the Wilton Historical Society, 224 Danbury Road, Wilton, CT. www.wiltonlibrary.org

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kerry@ducey.org (Wilton Historical Society) Events Tue, 21 Mar 2023 12:56:58 -0400
Prospects at The Prospector Theater Speak Out on World Down Syndrome Day https://news.hamlethub.com/wilton/neighbors/52767-prospects-at-the-prospector-theater-speak-out-on-world-down-syndrome-day52767-prospects-at-the-prospector-theater-speak-out-on-world-down-syndrome-day https://news.hamlethub.com/wilton/neighbors/52767-prospects-at-the-prospector-theater-speak-out-on-world-down-syndrome-day52767-prospects-at-the-prospector-theater-speak-out-on-world-down-syndrome-day

Today, Tuesday, March 21, 2023 is World Down Syndrome Day (WDSD), a global awareness day that has been officially observed by the United Nations since 2012.

The date for WDSD being the 21st day of the 3rd month, was selected to signify the uniqueness of the triplication (trisomy) of the 21st chromosome which causes Down syndrome, according to WDSD official website.

The Prospector Theater says, “Happy World Down Syndrome Day! This year's theme is "with us, not for us." We want YOU to work with us in creating more competitive and inclusive employment for people with disabilities!” 

Check out the Prospector’s video featuring several Prospects including 40-year-old Kris Mann who says, “I have Down Syndrome, and I love it… if they don’t like it… that’s them, not me.”

Learn more about the Prospector: www.ProspectorTheater.org

 

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kerry@ducey.org (HH) Neighbors Tue, 21 Mar 2023 12:24:39 -0400
It's Official! Wilton High School Class of 2023 Graduation is Saturday, June 17! https://news.hamlethub.com/wilton/neighbors/52766-it-s-official-wilton-high-school-class-of-2023-graduation-is-saturday-june-1752766-it-s-official-wilton-high-school-class-of-2023-graduation-is-saturday-june-17 https://news.hamlethub.com/wilton/neighbors/52766-it-s-official-wilton-high-school-class-of-2023-graduation-is-saturday-june-1752766-it-s-official-wilton-high-school-class-of-2023-graduation-is-saturday-june-17

Mark your calendars because it’s official! The Wilton High School Class of 2023 Graduation ceremony will take place on Saturday, June 17, 2023. 

More information will be shared as we move closer to the end of the school year. 

This graduating class is the first to meet the new State graduation requirements including the requirement to earn 25 credits.

Please read the note from the Superintendent of Schools Dr. Kevin Smith HERE.

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kerry@ducey.org (WHS) Neighbors Tue, 21 Mar 2023 11:29:25 -0400
2023 Sky's The Limit Hiking Challenge in Connecticut State Parks https://news.hamlethub.com/wilton/life/52765-2023-sky-s-the-limit-hiking-challenge-in-connecticut-state-parks52765-2023-sky-s-the-limit-hiking-challenge-in-connecticut-state-parks https://news.hamlethub.com/wilton/life/52765-2023-sky-s-the-limit-hiking-challenge-in-connecticut-state-parks52765-2023-sky-s-the-limit-hiking-challenge-in-connecticut-state-parks

DEEP’s Annual Challenge Invites Public to Go “In, Under, Over, and Through” State Parks and Forests

Ready for an outdoor adventure exploring Connecticut State Parks and Forests? The Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection’s (“DEEP”) State Parks ring in spring on Monday, March 20, 2023, with the release of the 2023 Sky’s The Limit Hiking Challenge (“STL”), an annual checklist of hiking locations chosen from the state’s 142 parks and forests.

Take the challenge to get outside for some fresh air and fun physical exercise. Hike and walk the highlighted locations/trails and take designated photos along the way to experience this year’s STL theme, “In, Under, Over and Through” Connecticut State Parks and Forests. Fifteen park or forest locations are identified below for participants to explore, with varying scenery and highlights at each location.

Walk up a tower, go underground in a cave or root cellar, enjoy a scenic vista, or explore a former railway trail. Join the challenge to discover the various places you’ll walk in, under, over, and through. Participants who hike or walk 10 of the 15 trails will receive a “Sky’s the Limit” hiking staff medallion and a certificate for their efforts. For hiking or walking all 15 locations, in addition to the medallion and certificate, 50 participants will have a chance to receive a hand-carved hiking staff made by the DEEP sawyer from the DEEP sawmill or from the Connecticut Woodcarvers Association.

“Spring is here, and our Sky’s the Limit Challenge is back, providing residents with a great way to explore Connecticut’s state parks and forests while joining others in a friendly challenge to visit all 15 locations handpicked by DEEP State Parks staff,” said DEEP Commissioner Katie Dykes. “Our state parks and forests, which are free to enter for those driving Connecticut registered vehicles thanks to the Passport to the Parks program, are such tremendous resources here in our state. We hope you’ll accept the challenge and explore your parks by going “In, Under, Over, and Through.”

Follow the Connecticut State Parks social media platforms @CTStateParks and visit www.ct.gov/DEEP/SkystheLimit for hiking challenge details including the challenge locations:

Rails to Trails:

  • Air Line State Park Trail, Multi-town
  • Larkin State Park Trail, Multi-town
  • Moosup State Park Trail (Moosup Valley Trail), Plainfield/Sterling
  • Farmington Canal Heritage Trail, Cheshire/Hamden
  • Hop River State Park Trail, Multi-town

State Parks:

  • Auerfarm State Park Scenic Reserve, Bloomfield
  • Camp Columbia State Park, Morris
  • Chatfield Hollow State Park, Killingworth
  • Haystack Mountain State Park, Norfolk
  • Hopemead State Park, Bozrah/Montville
  • Machimoodus State Park/Sunrise State Park, East Haddam
  • Mianus River State Park, Stamford
  • Mount Riga State Park, Salisbury
  • Mount Tom State Park, Litchfield
  • Windsor Locks Canal State Park, Windsor Locks

The Connecticut State Park system was founded in 1913 with the creation of the State Park Commission. One year later, the Commission purchased its first property, about four acres in Westport for what became Sherwood Island State Park. Today, Connecticut has 110 state parks and 32 state forests attracting around 17 million visitors each year, generating over $1 billion in economic activity for the state and supporting 9,000 private sector jobs. Those driving Connecticut registered motor vehicles are provided free entrance to the parks thanks to the Passport to the Parks program. For more information on Connecticut State Parks visit: www.ct.gov/deep/stateparks.

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kerry@ducey.org (CT DEEP) Life Mon, 20 Mar 2023 11:16:41 -0400
Application for construction and operation of cell tower at the Bus Barn https://news.hamlethub.com/wilton/politics/52763-application-for-construction-and-operation-of-cell-tower-at-the-bus-barn52763-application-for-construction-and-operation-of-cell-tower-at-the-bus-barn https://news.hamlethub.com/wilton/politics/52763-application-for-construction-and-operation-of-cell-tower-at-the-bus-barn52763-application-for-construction-and-operation-of-cell-tower-at-the-bus-barn

Verizon Application Filed with CT Siting Council for Cell Tower

Last week CT Siting Council accepted Verizon’s application to allow for the construction and operation of a cell tower on leased town-owned land at the Bus Barn. The application was assigned docket #515. 

Interested residents may view the application and follow the proceedings on the docket page on the Siting Council website found here.  

The tentative hearing date is June 29, 2023. The deadline for a decision is August 14, 2023. Assuming a favorable decision, Verizon officials will obtain the necessary permits to construct the tower in the fall.

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kerry@ducey.org (Town of Wilton ) Politics Mon, 20 Mar 2023 06:28:09 -0400
Wilton Go Green and Trackside are bringing reuse expert Alex Eaves to Wilton on Saturday, March 25 https://news.hamlethub.com/wilton/events/52761-wilton-go-green-and-trackside-are-bringing-reuse-expert-alex-eaves-to-wilton-on-saturday-march-2552761-wilton-go-green-and-trackside-are-bringing-reuse-expert-alex-eaves-to-wilton-on-saturday-march-25 https://news.hamlethub.com/wilton/events/52761-wilton-go-green-and-trackside-are-bringing-reuse-expert-alex-eaves-to-wilton-on-saturday-march-2552761-wilton-go-green-and-trackside-are-bringing-reuse-expert-alex-eaves-to-wilton-on-saturday-march-25

The Box Truck is Coming This Weekend!

Wilton Go Green and Trackside Teen Center are so excited to partner to bring reuse expert Alex Eaves to Wilton along with his Box Truck Tiny Home and his new documentary "The Box Truck Film." We know this will be a great day of purposeful play in a reusable kind of way!

Saturday, March 25th 

11am - 1:00pm 

  • Meet & Greet with Alex Eaves
  • Tour the Box Truck Tiny Home
  • Learn how SMALL MOVES of reusing & repurposing make a BIG difference. 
  • Participate in a variety of REUSE activities for kids and adults
  • Raffles
  • NEW ADDITION - Rickshaw rides will be available from College Bound Rickshaw

1:00pm - 3:00pm - MAIN EVENT

Screening of “The Box Truck Film” followed by Q&A with Alex Eaves

Recommended registration HERE. Suggested donation $5/person, $20/family. Trackside Café will be open. BYO water bottle/mug.

Film Synopsis 

Two builders convert a 17-foot moving truck into a 98-square foot tiny house and mobile reuse education center. Using almost nothing but reused, repurposed, and dumpster-dived materials, their “triumph over junk” showcases the endless benefits of the reuse lifestyle, which are implemented in very creative (and even comical) ways. Movie trailer 

About Alex Eaves

Alex Eaves is a reuse expert and has been leading a passionate “reuse life” since 2008; finding reuse solutions for his needs and wants. He is the owner of the green certified reuse apparel brand, STAY VOCAL and also the director of the award-winning documentary, REUSE! Because You Can't Recycle The Planet


Thanks to our raffle sponsors you can purchase raffle tickets for your chance to win:

  • Adventure Park at The Discovery Museum - One hour of Axe Throwing for 5 people OR Three hour climb for 3 people
  • Prospector Theater - 4 movie tickets
  • Eco Evolution - $50 gift card
  • Cook's Nook - $50 gift card
  • J&M Designs - Wooden bracelets
  • Dean Keister - Private trout fishing for two

Thank you to our event sponsors Pivot Energy, Junkluggers/Remix Market, Bay State Textiles and Barcelona Wine Bar.

The Box Truck Film: Building A Reuseful Home | Off...

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kerry@ducey.org (Wilton Go Green) Events Mon, 20 Mar 2023 05:28:08 -0400
Why Small Businesses Matter: RZ Connection https://news.hamlethub.com/wilton/places/52762-why-small-businesses-matter-in-new-canaan-rz-connection52762-why-small-businesses-matter-in-new-canaan-rz-connection https://news.hamlethub.com/wilton/places/52762-why-small-businesses-matter-in-new-canaan-rz-connection52762-why-small-businesses-matter-in-new-canaan-rz-connection

Why Small Businesses Matter

Shop small, do big things for your community

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!

You’re IT RZ Connection!

Three questions with Randi Hutton founder of RZ Connection LLC

RZ Connection LLC provides professional organizing, move management, downsizing and estate services.

Why did you start your business?

I have a friend whose basement was full of items inherited from both her and her husband’s families. I offered to help and quickly realized that added breathing space and mental clarity came with decluttering and organizing. The benefits were so apparent, I thought I could create a business of professional organizing.

What are your most popular services?

Organizing for a Move, Selling items of value and Estate Services. My services all tend to be intertwined. Organizing for a Move, for instance, often means also selling items of value.

Have you reimagined your small business?

Yes. I started RZC in Fairfield County. Then our services reached Westchester County, Manhattan and Brooklyn, New York. This past year we expanded into Florida. I will increase our reach further in the coming year.

Visit RZ Connection online www.therzconnection.com and on Facebook here.

HamletHub thanks Fairfield County Bank for making our Why Small Businesses Matter series possible!

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kerry@ducey.org (HH) Places Mon, 20 Mar 2023 02:29:00 -0400
Matthew Woods of Wilton named to the Champlain College Dean's List https://news.hamlethub.com/wilton/neighbors/52760-matthew-woods-of-wilton-named-to-the-champlain-college-dean-s-list52760-matthew-woods-of-wilton-named-to-the-champlain-college-dean-s-list https://news.hamlethub.com/wilton/neighbors/52760-matthew-woods-of-wilton-named-to-the-champlain-college-dean-s-list52760-matthew-woods-of-wilton-named-to-the-champlain-college-dean-s-list

Matthew Woods of Wilton has been named to the Champlain College Dean's List for the Fall 2022 semester.

Students on the Dean's List have achieved a grade point average of 3.5 or higher during the semester.

Making the Dean's List is a tremendous achievement in any year. Many of the high achievers balance their classes with serious jobs, internships, clubs, and volunteering, as well as a global pandemic. We congratulate you on this great accomplishment and honor.

Founded in 1878, Champlain College is a small, not-for-profit, private college in Burlington, Vermont, with additional campuses in Montreal, Canada, and Dublin, Ireland. 

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kerry@ducey.org (Champlain College) Neighbors Fri, 17 Mar 2023 12:52:51 -0400
Reuse Wilton on Saturday, March 25 https://news.hamlethub.com/wilton/events/52759-reuse-wilton-on-saturday-march-2552759-reuse-wilton-on-saturday-march-25 https://news.hamlethub.com/wilton/events/52759-reuse-wilton-on-saturday-march-2552759-reuse-wilton-on-saturday-march-25

Reuse Wilton on Saturday, March 25 from 11am to 3pm

Join Wilton Go Green and Trackside Teen Center for a day of purposeful play in a reusable kind of way!
 
Reuse expert and Box Truck Tiny Home builder Alex Eaves will be with us to showcase his Box Truck Tiny Home and screen his new film “The Box Truck Film.”
 
We will also have reuse activities for all ages and displays on how small moves of reusing & repurposing make a BIG difference. Raffles, Trackside Cafe and more!
 
At Trackside Teen Center - 15 Station Road
* 11:00am - 1:00pm - Meet and Greet with Alex Eaves, tour the Box Truck Tiny home, engage in activities
* 1:00pm - 3:00pm - Screening of “The Box Truck Film” and Q&A with Alex Eaves
* Registration recommended at https://www.trackside.org/special-events.html or call (203) 834-2888
 
Alex Eaves is a reuse expert and has been leading a passionate “reuse life” since 2008; finding reuse solutions for his needs and wants. He is the owner of the green certified reuse apparel brand, STAY VOCAL and also the director of the award-winning documentary, REUSE! Because You Can't Recycle The Planet. “The Box Truck Film” follows two builders as they convert a 17-foot moving truck into a 98-square foot tiny house and mobile reuse education center.
 
Learn more here
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kerry@ducey.org (Trackside Teen Center) Events Fri, 17 Mar 2023 11:42:22 -0400