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May 04, 2024

Toni Boucher Wilton Update: New Firefighter, Brewery, New American Citizen

<h3>Hello Wilton and Happy Glorious Spring</h3>It has been a few weeks of unveilings, commemorations, inductions, and general fanfare around some people who make our town so special. After weeks of grueling town budget talks, it was a joy to celebrate some of our neighbors who embody the best of Wilton.<h3>Annual Town Meeting</h3>Registered voters will have the opportunity to discuss and vote on our town’s Fiscal Year 2025 Budget at the Annual Town Meeting on Tuesday, May 7th, 2024, at the Wilton High School Clune Center Auditorium at 7 pm. Voting on the budget will take place at the end of the meeting. For those who cannot attend or need to leave before voting begins, another opportunity to vote will take place on Saturday, May 11th, from 8 am until 10 pm, also at the Clune Center Auditorium.This year presented town boards with major, unprecedented headwinds. The Board of Selectmen, Board of Education, and the Board of Finance collaborated to navigate a state-mandated revaluation which dramatically increased property values, a new requirement by Moody’s to maintain a Fund Balance ratio of over 25% versus 10%, and critical school and town building repairs that can no longer be delayed. In these extraordinary circumstances, the boards listened closely to residents and then worked together to strike a balance between educational and town needs while maintaining fiscal discipline.The proposed 2025 operating budget for the town and schools is $140,339,906, a 4.0% increase from 2024. The Board of Selectmen’s budget is $35,736,501, a 3.7% increase from 2024. The Board of Education’s budget is $93,238,159, a 4.5% increase over 2024. The combination of the two results in a 5.2% increase from 2024.<h3>Bondable Items</h3>Beyond the general operating budget, there will be five bondable items to vote on and one town resolution to consider. These bondable large expenditures are for repairing or replacing critical infrastructure priorities:<ol><li>Public Works</li></ol><ul><li class="ql-indent-1">7 miles of road repair - $540,000 (note that there is $2 million yearly for roads but we had a surplus last year that we will use for 2025)</li><li class="ql-indent-1">Bridge replacement on Scribner Hill Road - $1,600,000</li></ul><ol><li>Town Hall</li></ol><ul><li class="ql-indent-1">Town Hall Repairs- $1,585,000 to replace the boilers that were installed in 1992; replace the 1930’s era, single-pane windows on the front and sides of Town Hall; add supplemental heat; replace ceiling tiles; repair and buttress the front entry columns, stairs, plaster, and railings; restore fallen brick and cement; repair the vault to prevent it from falling through the floor</li></ul><ol><li>School Buildings</li></ol><ul><li class="ql-indent-1">Middlebrook roof replacement over the 1992 addition - $1,902,935</li><li class="ql-indent-1">Middlebrook Chiller and Unit Ventilator replacement - $3,261,041</li><li class="ql-indent-1">Middlebrook replacement of ceiling tiles as part of Chiller work - $600,000</li></ul><ol><li>Resolution Question</li></ol><ul><li class="ql-indent-1">Shall breweries be given permits in Wilton to make their beer in town for on-site and take-away consumption and be allowed to operate under the same hours as current restaurants and package stores do? Our public hearing on this ordinance showed unanimous and widespread support for it.</li></ul><h3>Why Invest in Town Infrastructure</h3>In a year when many Wilton property owners have seen their home values skyrocket, why should we invest in town infrastructure? The answer is that these bondable items have been put off for so many years that they have reached a crisis point. The past administration recognized this and to their credit hired consultants to assess the critical needs for our schools and municipal buildings such as roof repair, water damage, refrigeration, and heating systems. The report identified over $130 million dollars of priority items that should be addressed over the next 10-15 years. The good news is that most items can be bonded without adding new costs to the taxpayers. Since many of the past bonded items are being paid off, Wilton has significant bonding capacity so debt service will not go up over the period of time that building needs can be addressed. It stands to reason that due to inflation, the longer we wait to fix these issues, the more expensive they become.<h3>Brewery Ordinance</h3>The Brewery Ordinance on the ballot is a potential bright spot for Wilton. When the question of allowing breweries in town was posed at the First Selectmen’s meeting in December, several members of the public spoke in favor of them, citing how they foster community and tourism, support local farmers by using local ingredients in their brews, offer employment opportunities, and bring variety and interest to downtown Wilton.These are the choices before us when we vote next week. Town leaders are acutely aware that this is a tough financial landscape for many. The well-being of our citizens has been top-of-mind as we weighed what is needed against what is urgent for fiscal year 2025. <a href="https://www.wiltonct.org/sites/g/files/vyhlif10026/f/news/sample_ballot.pdf" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: var(--link);">A sample of the ballot you will be given at the Annual Town Meeting on the 7th and the 11th, is below for your consideration.</a><h3>A Change to Wilton’s General Fund Balance Ratio</h3>One of the factors affecting taxes this year is the change in policy by Moody’s rating agency, a firm that grades towns like ours on our fiscal responsibility. Having a AAA rating, as we do, assures lenders that we are a responsible borrower able to pay our debts. This allows us to receive loans at the best interest rates available. Without this rating, building and infrastructure projects would be prohibitively expensive.To obtain their highest rating (or maintain that AAA, as in our case), Moody’s would like towns to maintain a higher Fund Balance Ratio or Liquidity Ratio. They also expect that the receipt of one-time, non-recurring revenues will not be used to finance ongoing operating expenditures, programs, activities, or to offset taxes.<h3>Induction of New Firefighter</h3>John Gagel was sworn in as a Wilton Firefighter last week, continuing an already distinguished career with the Orange, CT Fire Department, where he started as a volunteer and rose to the rank of Lieutenant, and with the Cromwell, CT Fire District, where he was a career firefighter and EMT. John comes from a firefighting family. His father, David, has been a volunteer with the Orange, CT Volunteer Fire Department for 40 years. Wilton is lucky to have his experience and skills joining our Fire Department. Let us never forget that our firefighters run into burning buildings as people are running out and, like our police, every call could be life-threatening. Thank you, John, and welcome aboard!<h3>ASML Gift to Ambler Farm</h3>The Friends of Ambler Farm received an extremely generous gift from ASML, a global leader in the semiconductor industry, whose largest research, development, and manufacturing site in the United States is here in Wilton. Not only are they Wilton’s top employer (3200) and largest taxpayer, but they are also community-minded. The company’s ethos of supporting equitable access to education and nature strongly aligns with Ambler Farm’s programs. ASML is backing their efforts with a $324,000 grant that will, over the course of four years, renew the educational gardens and animal habitats, and provide field trip scholarships to students attending Title One schools in Norwalk. Additionally, ASML has committed to providing 1,200 hours of volunteer hours to the farm. ASML has been an active, caring neighbor since they came to Wilton. We are so grateful for their continued investment in our town’s future.<h3>In Honor of Judy Zucker</h3>At the most recent Board of Selectmen meeting, a unanimous, even emotional, approval was passed to allow the recreation room in the Wilton Senior Center to be named for Judy Zucker. This was especially appropriate because Judy was Chair of the Comstock Renovations Building Committee and saw the $10 million project through to completion on time and under budget. But Judy had also been a tireless advocate for all things Wilton long before then. Among her many acts of service was her time spent on the Board of Ed for two terms in the 1970s, the Board of Selectmen for four terms from 1988-99, the Commission for Social Services for twenty years, the Affordable Housing Oversight Committee, and the Elderly Tax Relief Committee. She was elected the first female president of Kiwanis and is in their Club Hall of Honor. She was a member of the Wilton PTA and the League of Women Voters, who made her an Honorary Life Member. Judy also volunteered with the Food Pantry and the Playshop. The Wilton Riverbrook YMCA named her a Distinguished Citizen and she was given a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Wilton Democratic Town Committee. Besides her work ethic, Judy was universally loved for her kindness, generosity, bipartisanship, and her skill for getting things done. As someone who started her law career in her fifties, Judy remained a woman who surprised and inspired all who knew her throughout her long life. She is sorely missed, but her achievements and her soaring example of community service live on.<h3>Tree Plantings on Arbor Day</h3>On Arbor Day, Frank Simone, who serves on Wilton’s Conservation Commission, and Nick Lee, Wilton’s Inland Wetlands Commission Chair, were honored with having newly planted trees named for them. Frank, as the Tree Steward of 2022, was presented with a Flowering Dogwood, and Nick, as the Tree Steward of 2023, was presented with a Black Tupelo. It was also a great opportunity to declare Wilton’s commitment to protecting trees and woodlands. Wilton is proud to be officially designated as a Tree City USA.<h3>Wilton Go Green</h3>We had seven local winners in the 17th Annual Housatonic Resources Recovery Authority Recycling Billboard Contest. They competed against 94 entries from students K-12 in all of the 13 HRRA towns. All first-place winners went on to compete in the Regional Judging. One of the Regional Grand Prize Winners was 2nd grader, Chris Li. His drawing will grace the back of the regional HartBuses starting this month. All of Wilton’s winning artwork is displayed in Comstock. Congratulations to all of the winners!<h3>A New American Citizen</h3>34-year Wilton resident and active member of the Wilton Garden Club, Anne Gura, was sworn in as an American citizen recently. Born in Norway, Anne came to the US as an infant. She met her husband, Wayne, in New York after graduating from college and they settled here. After working and raising children, Anne had time to make official what she’d always felt herself to be, a full-fledged American. As Anne says, “I’m proud of my heritage and beyond proud of my home country. Our highest best ideals are second to none. And these United States have never in our history stopped working to achieve them.” Such a proud moment! Congratulations, Anne!<h3>Blue Ribbons to Honor Child Abuse Prevention Month in April</h3>We at Town Hall actively supported The Riverbrook Regional YMCA’s participation in the See. Know, Respond campaign to increase awareness of child sexual abuse during the month of April. Resources are provided to anyone, at any time of the year.<h3>Minks to Sinks</h3>A final reminder that the greatest tag sale in Connecticut is happening in Wilton this weekend. All proceeds benefit the Family and Children’s Agency, a multi-service community-based organization. Read more about their work here: Welcome to Family & Children's Agency (familyandchildrensagency.org) Saturday, May 4th 9am – 5pm Sunday, May 5th 12pm – 4pm (Bargain Day – Everything Half Off) Monday, May 6th 9am – 11am (Bargain Day – Fill a Bag for $10)*Read Toni Boucher's update in its entirety <a href="https://www.wiltonct.org/home/news/may-3rd-news-first-selectmans-office" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.wiltonct.org/home/news/may-3rd-news-first-selectmans-office</a>

May 03, 2024

Aaron Griffin of Wilton Participating in UA's Cooperative Education Program

University of Alabama student Aaron Griffin of Wilton is participating in UA's Cooperative Education Program during the summer 2024 semester. Griffin is working for Essity Professional Hygiene NA.In the Cooperative Education Program, students alternate periods of full-time study with periods of full-time employment. This program offers work related to the academic major or career interests of each student.While in school, students carry regular course schedules. While on co-op, they work with professionals in their fields who supervise their training and work. At work, co-op students earn competitive salaries and may receive benefit packages in addition to valuable job experience. Participants maintain their full-time student status while at work and have priority registration status each semester through graduation.The University of Alabama, part of The University of Alabama System, is the state's flagship university. UA shapes a better world through its teaching, research and service. With a global reputation for excellence,

May 03, 2024

FC Buzz Wilton: Music with Oboe and Piano, Discourse, Jesse Terry & Sam Robbins

FC BUZZ Weekend MAY 3 - MAY 5HamletHub 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.<a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/events/all-things-equal---the-life-trials-of-ruth-bader-ginsburg-4180e" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">All Things Equal – The Life & Trials Of Ruth Bader Ginsburg</a>Westport Country PlayhouseFriday, May 3, 8:00 pm - 9:30 pmDirected by Laley LipardIn this one-woman play starring Michelle Azar, Court Justice “RBG” welcomes a friend of the family to her cozy chambers to convey, over the course of ninety fascinating and often funny minutes, a sense of her life and its many trials.<a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/events/duets-chucho-valdes-dianne-reeves-joe-lovano" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">Duets: Chucho Valdés, Dianne Reeves, Joe Lovano</a>Quick Center for the Arts at Fairfield UniversityFriday, May 3, 8:00 pm - 10:00 pmSince 2021, these three legends, with a combined 12 Grammy Awards between them, have been creating rare and magical evenings filled with their original takes on jazz standards. The evening features one of the most influential figures in modern Afro-Cuban jazz, the 82-year-old pianist Chucho Valdés, sharing the stage with preeminent jazz vocalist Dianne Reeves and celebrated saxophonist Joe Lovano.<a href="https://culturalalliancefc.org/event/discourse-art-across-generations-and-continents/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">Discourse: Art Across Generations and Continents</a>browngrotta arts GallerySaturday, May 4 to May 12, 10:00 am - 6:00 pmIn "Discourse: Art Across Generations and Continents," the gallery will assemble an eclectic group of works that celebrate this diversity. Included will be works from fiber art’s origins 60 years ago, current mixed media works and sculpture, and pieces created in the decades between — spurring a dialogue across generations and across continents. <a href="https://culturalalliancefc.org/event/frog-frolic-family-festival-2/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">Frog Frolic Family Festival</a>Redding Community CenterSaturday, May 4, 10:00 am - 4:00 pmA special day for the whole community, where folks of all ages can come together to enjoy live music, food trucks, play games, craft, and spend time with friends! For 2+ decades, The Frolic has kicked off Spring while generating necessary funds for our one-of-a-kind library – don’t miss it!<a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/events/the-upscale-garage-sale-at-the-artisan-marketplace-spring-edition" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">The Upscale Garage Sale at the Artisan Marketplace: Spring Edition</a>MoCA WestportSaturday, May 4, 12:00 pm - 4:00 pmThis exclusive collaboration between MoCA Westport and Designport promises an unparalleled fusion of creativity, community, and curated craftsmanship.<a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/events/jane-s-walk-bridgeport-2024" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">Jane's Walk Bridgeport 2024</a>Bridgeport Downtown Special ServicesSaturday, May 4, 2:00 pm - 5:00 pmExplore the unique story of how we see, interact with, and feel about Downtown Bridgeport on foot, on film, and collaborative discussion. <a href="https://culturalalliancefc.org/event/traveling-shoes-at-by-francis-pressley-reception-may-4th/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">“Traveling Shoes”: Art by Francis Pressley</a>City Lights GallerySaturday, May 4, 4:00 pm - 7:00 pmMeet the artist and poet Francis Pressley at City Lights Gallery! View a series of large-scale portraits of prominent artists and important world leaders, interpreted through the heart, mind, and hand of Francis Pressley. Also on view are Bridgeport-based portraits and scenes, along with paintings of his beloved dogs.<a href="https://culturalalliancefc.org/event/derby-day-celebration-2/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">Derby Day Celebration</a>Pequot LibrarySaturday, May 4, 4:00 pm - 9:00 pmA Fundraiser for Pequot Library, experience the excitement of the Kentucky Derby at Pequot Library! Take a stroll around the Great Lawn to view the festive hats, attire, and decorated tailgates. Bid on Silent Auction items and get your Derby Dollars so that you can enter to win raffle items, take home a bottle of bourbon from the Bourbon Wall, choose your winning horse and take home the top prize in the 50/50 raffle, and new this year: be the first in New England to experience the mobile driving range Dryvebox. Prizes will be awarded for closest to the pin, and the Best Hat, Best Dressed, and Best Tailgates will take home trophies as well. Visit our website for more details!<a href="https://culturalalliancefc.org/event/jesse-terry-sam-robbins-at-voices-cafe/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">Jesse Terry & Sam Robbins</a>Voices CafeSaturday, May 4, 8:00 pm - 11:00 pmJesse Terry, a full-time touring artist for well over a decade and Wilton CT native, promises a touching performance that will resonate deeply in the hearts of audiences.<a href="https://culturalalliancefc.org/event/pin-up/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">Pin Ups</a>art/place gallerySunday, May 5, 12:00 am - 12:00 amThe public is invited to attend the reception at Art/Place Gallery of this All-Member show of unframed work. <a href="https://culturalalliancefc.org/event/finely-tuned-paintings-by-marlene-siff-reception-and-artist-talk-with-miggs-burroughs/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">Finely Tuned: Paintings by Marlene Siff, with a Reception and Artist Talk with Miggs Burroughs</a>Westport LibrarySunday, May 5, 2:00 pm - 4:00 pmTimed to coincide with VersoFest 2024, each of the five large dimensional works in "Finely Tuned, Paintings by Marlene Siff" — Fanfare, Crescendo, Legato, Elegy, and Fugue — is named for, and linked to, a specific expression found in music. Visitors to the gallery can scan a QR code next to each piece and listen to the musical selections that the artist used as inspiration.<a href="https://culturalalliancefc.org/event/ridgefield-guild-of-artists-14th-juried-member-show-walk-and-talk-sunday-may-5-from-2-to-4pm/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">14th Juried Member Show Walk and Talk</a>Ridgefield Guild of Artists’Sunday, May 5, 2:00 pm - 4:00 pmCome hear four of our artists speak about their inspirations, origins, and where they hope to go. Our speakers are: Claudio DaNapoli, Eddie Hall, Nancy Lazar, Clarice Shirvell.<a href="https://culturalalliancefc.org/event/fairfield-county-childrens-choir-presents-why-we-sing/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">Fairfield County Children’s Choir with Why We Sing</a>The KleinSunday, May 5, 3:00 pm - 5:00 pmFCCC's 29th annual spring concert features 300 choristers performing a wide variety of selections which celebrate the joy of singing, such as "How Can I Keep from Singing?", "Lift Every Voice and Sing", "I’m Gonna Sing When the Spirit Says 'Sing'", "When Children Sing", "Where the Music Comes From", and "Music Down in My Soul".<a href="https://culturalalliancefc.org/event/sunday-soundscapes-baroque-virtuosity-trio/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">Sunday Soundscapes: Baroque Virtuosity Trio</a>Weston Public LibrarySunday, May 5, 4:00 pm - 6:00 pmThe Baroque Virtuosity Trio takes us on a journey back to an elegant time when music was made with harpsichords, lutes, and viols. <a href="https://culturalalliancefc.org/event/connecticuts-own-music-with-oboe-and-piano-2/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">Connecticut’s Own: Music with Oboe and Piano</a>Wilton LibrarySunday, May 5, 4:00 pm - 5:00 pmAnother Sunday afternoon of chamber music in the Connecticut's Own series. Wilton residents Ralph Kirmser (oboe) and Kyong Hee Cho (piano) will perform pieces by Robert Schumann, Pierre Sancan, and Frederic Chopin.<a href="https://uuwestport.org/ministers-greeting/upcoming-services/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">“Seeking Home”</a>UU WestportSunday, May 5, 10:00 pmAn original composition for two guitars, drum, voice & Native American flute “Seeking Home” was created to acknowledge and raise awareness about the ongoing crisis of Murdered and Missing Indigenous Women, Men, and Youth (MMIW) occurring throughout the US and Canada. All donations will go to “Medicine Wheel Ride” – an Indigenous MMIW advocacy non-profit organization.See these and discover hundreds more events on the FCBUZZ EVENTS page at<a href="https://culturalalliancefc.org/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"> https://culturalalliancefc.org</a>. Sign up for the Cultural Alliance eBuzz to receive top picks and spotlights each week in your inbox.

May 02, 2024

Wilton Police Bid Farewell to Sergeant Anthony Cocco who Retired After 24 Years

Yesterday, Wednesday, May 1, Wilton Police bid farewell to Sergeant Anthony Cocco. He retires after 24 years of dedicated service to the Town of Wilton. He was a longstanding member of the Department's Domestic Violence Task Force. Sergeant Cocco was a senior leader amongst the ranks, always reliable, and will be sorely missed. We wish him much happiness and health in his next chapter.Visit Wilton Police on Facebook <a href="https://www.facebook.com/WiltonPoliceCT" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/WiltonPoliceCT</a>

May 01, 2024

FREE Books at Wilton Library on Saturday!

Free Books at Wilton Library on Saturday, May 4 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Wilton Library's Spring Book Sale was a huge success thanks to everyone who shopped at the sale! But this year, there are too many items remaining that will cost us money to remove. Everyone is invited to pick up as many free books as they can on Saturday, May 4 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. to help out Wilton Library. Please bring your own bags.

May 01, 2024

May is Mental Health Awareness Month: Wilton Library, Youth Council Plan Events

May is Mental Health Awareness Month, and Wilton Library has teamed up with Wilton Youth Council, Wilton Mental Health Task Force, and many other community partners to help build awareness of the importance of mental health and wellness, as well as the increasing mental health challenges that people of all ages are facing, including in our community.We invite you to stop by the library and check out our book displays and resources available for all ages. Please take the time to see the green and white pinwheels set up outside throughout the month of May. The 256 green pinwheels represent Wilton calls to 211 or 988 in the last 365 days that relate to Mental Health and Addiction. The 339 white pinwheels represent the 3 in 5 Wilton residents who suffer from Mental Health and Addiction but do not reach out for help.On Tuesday, May 2 at 7 p.m. at the library, Wilton Youth Council presents Claudia Erickson, Co-founder of the Unplugged Collaborative. She will speak about digital wellness, technology and social media, and how we can encourage healthier digital habits in our families. <a href="https://meoe7sn6.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001XvaKuT3UMxdd_Z8l9fGhIvelHbsM6xWs30krR4WUD16X5kSR5j86agQPu9VHIq1aomf1kMqtlVloH_LsmEXCXtr6p2lYxbqJHwpvs8OKI4lWFC4Sz-NzXLBOqy7kUNvkHfNZj2-6A3SyeFNJqM6NiXKx7w6KgQbsI58JTvKLjspwcYLpNs9txzvRCmuh9_Sntt4cZMNFSM43fn9eoDVB75UkSDjwj6vt&c=V7fZSDsjUDcTRzQsyT19wi7Nh5RCMwX-G-xPzprnFIjJn6SvQ3Zs3Q==&ch=rhNQEUHdLJEuROtQ42wbFjFFQsPD5wYVFLMIGU5PSiNbhwIfziRffA==" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(70, 126, 246);">Register & See Details</a>At 10:30 a.m. on Thursday, May 16, we invite you to join us at the library for Mental Health Action Day. Town leaders and community members will gather to publicly recognize and show support for those in our community facing challenges with their own mental health. Wear your green pin all day to show your support! <a href="https://meoe7sn6.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001XvaKuT3UMxdd_Z8l9fGhIvelHbsM6xWs30krR4WUD16X5kSR5j86alvOFX2bRm5PnODe7iuofT5xaLruTOK21AwtxqE405qcvTVSXoh7-TdvjrctygxrRbHJJrI9ns61jLQEfp2C1GOO5zgPIJCJ9uW8ShJR00qVkXBZycpkEoQAKUn_XDSepvs1J7NAhR0GXZRRsMSAUZMGjs-kMyqvop1kbY25e6wg&c=V7fZSDsjUDcTRzQsyT19wi7Nh5RCMwX-G-xPzprnFIjJn6SvQ3Zs3Q==&ch=rhNQEUHdLJEuROtQ42wbFjFFQsPD5wYVFLMIGU5PSiNbhwIfziRffA==" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(70, 126, 246);">See Details</a>Throughout the month, we encourage you to take the time to focus on your own wellness and take actions that empower you to feel connected to yourself, your loved ones, and our community. Find the time to unplug, meet friends, read, take a walk, experience nature - find what’s right for you!Help is available. Call 211. Call or text 988.

May 01, 2024

Summer at ACT of Connecticut: A Season of Exciting Youth Education Programs

As the days grow longer and the warmth of summer approaches, ACT of Connecticut is gearing up for an exciting season of youth education programs. From the Summer Teen Conservatory to the Summer Stars Showcase, there are plenty of opportunities for young performers to shine on stage.Last Chance to Audition for Summer Teen ConservatoryThe last day to audition for the Summer Teen Conservatory is May 3rd. This intensive program, running from July 8 to July 20, is designed for 7th to 12th graders who are passionate about musical theater. Rehearsals take place Monday to Friday from 11AM to 5PM, leading up to a fully-staged production on Saturday, July 20, 2024, at 7pm. Led by ACT of Connecticut's Artistic Director, Daniel C. Levine, participants will work on an original musical theater piece, specially crafted for the cast.Register <a href="https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSe6fv1jsCgWk-IOyIuBaYMoEcJMGLlwrB74YslwlkZHnT3QIA/viewform" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">HERE.</a>Don’t Miss Out on Summer Stars ShowcaseRegistration is still open for the Summer Stars Showcase, but spots are filling up fast. This program, running from July 22 to August 3, is open to incoming 2nd to 6th graders. Participants will rehearse Monday to Friday from 9AM to 3PM, culminating in a performance of MADAGASCAR - A MUSICAL ADVENTURE JR.! on Saturday, August 3, 2024, at 2pm. Alongside the production, students will learn basic musical theatre skills, including vocal technique, choreography, and improvisation.Register <a href="https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdapiv-uobL3mjH__hh_dZLOA5C5WF3BFKMnPXJ4yr-RT2VOA/viewform" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">HERE.</a>Both programs offer a unique opportunity for young performers to develop their talents, learn from industry professionals, and create lasting memories. Whether you’re a seasoned performer or just starting out, there’s something for everyone at ACT of Connecticut this summer.For more information and to register, visit<a href="https://chat.openai.com/c/actofct.org/education" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(13, 13, 13);"> </a><a href="https://www.actofct.org/education" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(13, 13, 13);">https://www.actofct.org/education</a>or email <a href="mailto:education@actofct.org." rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(13, 13, 13);">education@actofct.org.</a> Start your summer on a high note with ACT of Connecticut!