Stories

<p><strong>Stamford, Conn. </strong><strong style="color: black;">– </strong><span style="color: black;">Continuing to set the bar higher, </span><a href="https://www.edgehillcommunity.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Edgehill</a> residents <span style="color: black;">proudly raised $75,240 for this year’s </span><a href="https://support.stamfordhospitalfoundation.org/site/TR?fr_id=1170&pg=entry" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Hope in Motion Walk</a>. The annual event, held June 8<sup>th</sup> in Mill River Park, <span style="color: black;">supports the needs of patients at Stamford Health’s Bennett Cancer Center. The residents of Edgehill, Stamford’s premier continuing care retirement community, have raised more than $425,000 since their first walk 11 years ago. The money helps provide patients with practical items like transportation, babysitting costs, emergency loans and meals, as well as comfort services like massage. </span></p><p><span style="color: black;">“Many of us have firsthand experience with the amazing services at the Bennett Cancer Center, having been with loved ones on their cancer journey,” said Team Edgehill Captain Joan Weisman. “The community, our neighbors, and local businesses are eager to support our effort because they too know how important it is—and how good it feels—to offer care and comfort to patients and their families.” </span></p><p><span style="color: black;">More than 100 donors, many of whom live or work at Edgehill, contributed to this year’s record amount. The highlight of the fundraising effort was the May 7</span><sup style="color: black;">th</sup><span style="color: black;"> Edgeminster Dog Show, which brought in more than $11,000. The show and silent auction featured 17 dogs from the community and a special visit from Stamford Health’s therapy dog. On Sunday, June 8, 18 residents and associates turned out to participate in the three-mile walk. In addition to the team’s efforts, Edgehill was again a sponsor of the Hope in Motion Walk. </span></p><p>For more information, please visit <a href="https://www.edgehillcommunity.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">edgehillcommunity.com</a>.</p><p class="ql-align-center"><br></p>

<p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">MAYOR’S UPDATES</span></p><ul><li><span style="background-color: transparent;">Mayor Simmons Applauds State Funding Boost for Stamford: This week, the City of Stamford secured state support for major investments for Stamford’s public schools and community organizations. Mayor Simmons released the following statement acknowledging the partnership with the Stamford legislative delegation:</span></li><li><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">As part of the State Bond Act, a total of $576 million in state funding has been authorized for the Westhill High School and Roxbury Elementary School projects. This includes a maximum state grant commitment of $434.8 million—$356.8 million for Westhill and $78 million for Roxbury—representing a $189 million increase in grant support. These critical construction projects reflect the city’s long-term vision for educational infrastructure. “One of my top priorities has been rebuilding Westhill and Roxbury, and I’m thrilled that this funding allows that work to move forward,” said Mayor Simmons. “This is a significant step in ensuring every child in Stamford has access to modern, safe, and inspiring schools.”</span></li><li><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">In addition to school construction support, the state budget also allocates funds to several local organizations, including the Stamford Fire Training School, Stamford Downtown Special Services District, 100 Black Men of Stamford, the Stamford Alumni Diamond Foundation, and the Boys & Girls Club of Stamford. “These investments reflect the incredible impact our nonprofits have on youth development, public safety, and economic vitality,” Simmons added. “I’m proud to see their work recognized at the state level.”</span></li></ul><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">CITY NEWS</span></p><ul><li><span style="background-color: transparent;">Walk In Permitting Schedule: Don’t miss our upcoming walk-in permitting hours intended for residential and small commercial businesses such as food businesses, cosmetology, barber, and retail food establishments. City officials will be present to help those in attendance. Next session will be on Wednesday, June 11th between 9:30am – 12:00pm in the 7th Floor Lobby of Government Center.</span></li><li><span style="background-color: transparent;">Hunting Ridge Road Bridge: The Hunting Ridge Road Bridge is now open to vehicular traffic!</span></li><li><span style="background-color: transparent;">Cedar Heights Bridge Replacement: The Cedar Heights Bridge is now open!</span></li><li><span style="background-color: transparent;">CFHA First Time Homebuyer Session: The Connecticut Housing Finance Authority (CHFA) will host an in-person Homebuyer Seminars in Stamford, Connecticut, on Saturday, June 14. The seminar will be held at the Ferguson Public Library, 1 Public Library Plaza, Stamford, CT 06901, from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM. Attendance is free, but registration is encouraged. To register, visit </span><a href="https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Flp.constantcontactpages.com%2Fev%2Freg%2Ftq4jpkv/1/01000197474112ff-2b36b45a-3ead-44cf-b91f-554bb15ea8ff-000000/Wl1uZXD6X4rfNh1FxsoYxJ8ljoa8szy8Fyd1a0shgSI=408" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">here</a><span style="background-color: transparent;">.</span></li><li><span style="background-color: transparent;">June Arts & Culture Guide: The City of Stamford and the Stamford Arts and Culture Commission are excited to announce, “Stamford Spotlight: A Celebration of Arts and Culture.” This guide highlights upcoming arts and cultural events in Stamford. Be sure to stop by and support our local organizations! Click </span><a href="https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.stamfordct.gov%2Fhome%2Fshowpublisheddocument%2F43542%2F638848271316842546/1/01000197474112ff-2b36b45a-3ead-44cf-b91f-554bb15ea8ff-000000/RJcPmcz75wEeg7iS2fJLU16JYK5LyZXYTTzff_A0ELY=408" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">here</a><span style="background-color: transparent;"> to view the June Guide.</span></li><li><span style="background-color: transparent;">Lathon Wider Community Center: On the morning of Thursday, January 2, the City Facilities Department was notified of a flooding incident in the basement of the Lathon Wider Community Center (137 Henry Street) caused by a failure in a piece of mechanical equipment. The target date for reopening the building is July 1, 2025. For any questions or urgent needs regarding the Health Department’s walk-in health services, please call (203)-977-5652.</span></li><li class="ql-indent-1"><span style="background-color: transparent;">The Stamford Health Department Community Public Health Clinic has temporarily moved to 138 Stillwater Avenue - a former Optimus location. Convenient street parking is available.</span></li></ul><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Apply for a Special Events Permit: To reserve a pavilion or host events at city parks click </span><a href="https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fstamfordct.portal.opengov.com%2Fcategories%2F1091%2Frecord-types%2F6547/1/01000197474112ff-2b36b45a-3ead-44cf-b91f-554bb15ea8ff-000000/sewaf8Q4v-ROpv28pRoCxRr3NCtJBuA-9d8UemP29f8=408" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">here</a><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">.</span></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">City Events</span></p><ul><li><span style="background-color: transparent;">Access to Capital Event: Join the City of Stamford's Office of Economic Development for an information and networking session with local, state, and regional organizations providing access to capital and resources for small business at the Ferguson Library on Thursday, June 26th at 12:00 pm. See the flyer below for more information and to RSVP. </span></li></ul><p><br></p>

<p><strong>FC Buzz June 6-8</strong></p><p><a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/events/fiber-artists-of-handweavers-guild-of-connecticut-exhibition-opening-reception" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong>"Fiber Artists of Handweavers' Guild of Connecticut"</strong></a></p><p><strong>Wilton Library, Wilton</strong></p><p>Friday Jun 6, 6:00 pm - 7:30 pm</p><p>The Handweavers' Guild of Connecticut, which celebrated its 75th anniversary in 2023, was started in 1948 by a small group of women and has grown to a membership of 270. The Guild invites handweavers, spinners, and other fiber artists from all levels of experience to exchange ideas and share knowledge, to encourage and educate, and to challenge their abilities in fiber art techniques. Anyone who is interested is invited to attend a Guild meeting and consider becoming a member. The Guild meets five times a year at the Congregational Church in South Glastonbury on the third Saturday of the month, bimonthly from September to May. </p><p><a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/events/artist-reception-interiors-a-look-inside-and-the-reveal-of-piece-by-piece-with-the-artists-collective-of-westport" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong>Artist Reception: ‘Interiors: A Look Inside’ and the Reveal of ‘Piece by Piece’ with The Artists Collective of Westport</strong></a></p><p><strong>The Westport Library, Westport</strong></p><p>Friday Jun 6, 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm</p><p>For Interiors, each of the Artists Collective members were invited to display a work in the medium of their choice that explores what “interiors” means to them. Contributors this year include Bonnie Edelman, Lynn Carlson, Peggy Dembicer, and Ros Shaffer, as well as Norm Siegel, Suzanne Benton, Julie Leff, Diane Pollack, Miggs Burroughs, Kat Evans, Niki Ketchman, and more.</p><p><a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/events/new-pond-farm-s-art-show-preview" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong>Art Show Preview</strong></a></p><p><strong>New Pond Farm Education Center, Redding</strong></p><p>Friday Jun 6, 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm</p><p>An inspiring evening of art, flavor, and community! Mingle with talented artists and fellow art lovers while savoring a Signature Cocktail, local wines, craft brews, and festive bites. Be among the first to preview this year’s collection of exceptional artwork by some of the region’s finest artists. Our fantastic biennial Art Show includes a silent auction, live art demonstrations, and engaging activities for both children and adults—all set against the backdrop of nature and agrarian life that inspires our work and defines our beautiful property.</p><p><a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/events/decades-in-concert-the-1980s-e60c1" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong>Decades in Concert: The 1980</strong></a></p><p><strong>The Downtown Cabaret, Bridgeport</strong></p><p>Friday Jun 6, 7:30 pm - 9:30 pm</p><p>Following the huge success of Sounds of the Seventies and Spirit of the Sixties, this production transports audiences back to the 1980s to revisit the sights and sounds of the era where walls were torn down, we believed in miracles, and greed was good. Using music from some of the most prominent and influential artists of the 80’s such as Madonna, Michael Jackson, Cyndi Lauper, Whitney Houston, U2, The Police, Bon Jovi and many many more, Decades in Concert: The 1980s tells the story of the history and culture of America in the “Me First” decade. This amazing performance with a talented cast will immerse you in nostalgic multimedia and transport you back to the decade that changed America and defined a generation!</p><p><a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/events/the-shawshank-redemption---live-on-stage-e654e" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong>THE SHAWSHANK REDEMPTION</strong></a></p><p><strong>Powerhouse Theatre Performing Arts Center, New Canaan</strong></p><p>Friday Jun 6, 7:30 pm - 9:45 pm</p><p>Adapted for the stage by Dave Johns and Owen O'Neill. Based on the beloved movie and the novella by Stephen King. When Andy Dufresne is convicted of murder and sentenced to life in Shawshank prison, he must use his wits and newly forged friendships to keep himself and his hope alive. But will he be able to survive the corruption and danger he faces within this notorious prison’s walls? Based on the novella by Stephen King and popularized by the highly acclaimed movie, The Shawshank Redemption is a story of resilience and is sure to be a theatrical experience like no other.</p><p><a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/events/artist-talk-elemental-juried-work-by-boston-sculptors-gallery-artists" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong>Artist Talk: Elemental: Juried Work by Boston Sculptors Gallery Artists</strong></a></p><p><strong>Flinn Gallery, Greenwich</strong></p><p>Saturday Jun 7, 2:00 pm - 3:00 pm</p><p>An engaging way to learn about their process and inspiration. The show features the works of 13 member artists from the Boston Sculptors Gallery. The sculptors in the exhibition work with a wide range of materials – clay, metal, wood, fabric, plastic, and mixed media – and range in dimension from hand-sized to over 8 feet.</p><p><a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/events/trailer-box-project-sculpture-2025" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong>Trailer Box Project Sculpture 2025</strong></a></p><p>J<strong>im Felice Studios, Bethel</strong></p><p>Saturday Jun 7, 2:00 pm - 5:00 pm</p><p>Don’t miss this outdoor exhibit of 15 Connecticut Sculptors. In the Gallery we will be Featuring paintings by Megan Marden. Musical Guest the Bad Slugs will be performing their original music and a few of their favorite covers. There will be refreshments and it is Free to the Public, a family friendly outing in Bethel Connecticut.</p><p><a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/events/cabaret-at-the-history-center-mel-mcguire-sings-cole-porter" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong>Cabaret at the History Center: Mel McGuire Sings Cole Porter</strong></a></p><p><strong>Stamford History Center, Stamford</strong></p><p>Saturday Jun 7, 6:00 pm - 9:00 pm</p><p>Spend the evening getting to know Cole Porter in the cabaret "Down in the Depths", a musical deep dive into Porter's life and catalog. The music selections range all throughout his career, from the biggest shows to obscure pieces rarely performed. One might make you shed a tear and the next will have you rolling with laughter. Always captivating, cabaret singer-storyteller Mel McGuire will be accompanied by maestro Rodney Loren on piano bringing fresh arrangements of jazz standards like "DeLovely", "You're the Top", and "Night and Day". If you're interested in early 20th century American history and pop culture or just love good music, this show is not to be missed!</p><p><a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/events/dreamscape" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong>Dreamscap</strong>e</a></p><p><strong>New Canaan High School Theater, New Canaan</strong></p><p>Saturday Jun 7, 5:30 pm - 7:00 pm</p><p>" Dreamscape" is a series of Contemporary Dance Performance to encapsulate the ability to dream, imagine, and celebrate dance artistry through a variety of dance styles including lyrical contemporary dance and ballet, as well as a variety of music including modern, classical, and even big band! Come float on air with us!</p><p><a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/events/family-pride-picnic-and-party" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong>Family Pride Picnic and Party</strong></a></p><p><strong>Saugatuck Congregational Church, Westport</strong></p><p>Sunday Jun 8, 11:00 am - 2:00 pm</p><p>Mark your calendar for Sunday, June 8, to celebrate Pride Month at Saugatuck Congregational Church’s Family Pride Picnic and Party. Bring your friends and family and enjoy a bounce house, lawn games, face painting, crafts, hot dogs, cake, and more! </p><p><a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/events/pipe-organ-recital-by-scholarship-competition-winner-daniel-colaner" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong>Pipe Organ Recital by Scholarship Competition Winner Daniel Colaner</strong></a></p><p><strong>St. Theresa RC Church, Trumbull</strong></p><p>Sunday Jun 8, 4:30 pm - 5:30 pm</p><p>Prepare to be enchanted by the powerful and beautiful sounds of acoustically resonant St. Theresa RC Church in Trumbull which features two magnificent pipe organs. Daniel’s exceptional skills and passion for music will surely leave you in awe. Don't miss this unique opportunity to experience a truly special performance. See you there!</p>

<p> STAMFORD, CT/June 4, 2025 – Your best day on the water is coming! On Saturday, July 12, hundreds of kayakers and paddle boarders will take to Long Island Sound for the SoundWaters Flotilla, a four-mile community paddle supporting SoundWaters’ environmental education programs and the protection of Long Island Sound. </p><p> Paddlers will launch from Cove Island Park in Stamford, journeying around Shippan Point to the Cohen SoundWaters Harbor Center at Boccuzzi Park, where a beach party awaits with music, lunch and camaraderie. For most paddlers, the course should take two hours or less. </p><p> “When people experience the beauty of Long Island Sound together, they begin to understand just how vital it is to protect it,” said Leigh Schmitz, President of SoundWaters. “The funds raised help us to provide hands-on science education using our million-acre classroom to thousands of students every year.” </p><p> To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience, the route will be supported by kayak guides, support boats and a floating rest stop. After the event, a shuttle service will return paddlers and their gear to their original launch sites. Participants may bring their own kayaks or paddle boards or rent equipment through SoundWaters during registration. </p><p> The 2025 Flotilla is made possible thanks to the generous support from Franklin Templeton, along with Kaster Moving Company, Hey Stamford!, 95.9 The Fox, and WEBE 108. Register now at <a href="https://p2p.charityengine.net/Flotilla25/?_gl=1*uffes6*_ga*ODExNjg0MzUyLjE3NDczOTU4NjQ.*_ga_29SK5LTH2B*czE3NDg4ODA4NDIkbzckZzAkdDE3NDg4ODA4NDIkajYwJGwwJGgw*_gcl_au*NTM5MTM2MDY4LjE3NDg2MDY1MDc." rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">SoundWaters Flotilla '25</a> and paddle for a cleaner, healthier Long Island Sound. </p><p><br></p><p><strong><u>About SoundWaters</u></strong></p><p>SoundWaters prepares the next generation for their future. With our climate in crisis, we teach tomorrow’s leaders the science they will need. With Long Island Sound as our classroom, we create love and respect for the natural world. As a matter of justice, we open the water to all. As a matter of urgency, we work to protect our common home. For more information, visit <a href="https://soundwaters.org/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">soundwaters.org</a>.</p><p class="ql-align-center">###</p>

<p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">MAYOR’S UPDATES</span></p><ul><li><span style="background-color: transparent;">Welcome Rafael Blanco: We’re thrilled to welcome world-renowned muralist Rafael Blanco to Stamford as he brings his artistry to the Stamford Train Station garage. Stamford’s Director of Economic Development Leah Kagan and Arts & Culture Program Manager Aaron Miller joined Rafael, along with partners from RiseUP for Arts, to officially kick off the project after it was selected by the Stamford Arts and Culture Commission.</span></li><li class="ql-indent-1"><span style="background-color: transparent;">Meet Rafael this Sunday at the Seed in Mill River Park from 1-3 pm. There will be music, food trucks, and art activities for all ages. </span></li><li><span style="background-color: transparent;">Memorial Day Parade: Thank you to everyone who joined us at the Memorial Day Parade to honor and remember the brave men and women who gave their lives in service to our nation </span></li></ul><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">CITY NEWS</span></p><ul><li><span style="background-color: transparent;">Walk In Permitting Schedule: Don’t miss our upcoming walk-in permitting hours intended for residential and small commercial businesses such as food businesses, cosmetology, barber, and retail food establishments. City officials will be present to help those in attendance. Next session will be on June 11th between 9:30am – 12:00pm in the 7th Floor Lobby of Government Center.</span></li><li><span style="background-color: transparent;">Cedar Heights Bridge Replacement: The Cedar Heights Bridge is now open!</span></li><li><span style="background-color: transparent;">Long Ridge Road Milling and Resurfacing: The Connecticut Department of Transportation has announced a milling and resurfacing project on Long Ridge Road (Route 104). The project has begun and will continue until Thursday, June 5. The project will take place on Long Ridge Road between Stillwater Road and Maltbie Avenue. Weather permitting, paving will be complete by June 5. Work will take place between 7:00 pm and 5:00 am Sunday night through Friday morning.</span></li><li><span style="background-color: transparent;">CFHA First Time Homebuyer Session: The Connecticut Housing Finance Authority (CHFA) will host an in-person Homebuyer Seminars in Stamford, Connecticut, on Saturday, June 14. The seminar will be held at the Ferguson Public Library, 1 Public Library Plaza, Stamford, CT 06901, from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM. Attendance is free, but registration is encouraged. To register, visit </span><a href="https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Finfo.chfa.org%2Fstamford/1/0100019722ff98a8-71b754af-4e3e-4eaa-acaf-569fcb851120-000000/GPwYYAa35YJ9D8FaTbH1GDfoGyyWZg4TH0-CTqjKPyY=407" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">here</a><span style="background-color: transparent;">.</span></li><li><span style="background-color: transparent;">May Arts & Culture Guide: The City of Stamford and the Stamford Arts and Culture Commission are excited to announce, “Stamford Spotlight: A Celebration of Arts and Culture.” This guide highlights upcoming arts and cultural events in Stamford. Be sure to stop by and support our local organizations! Click </span><a href="https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.stamfordct.gov%2Fhome%2Fshowpublisheddocument%2F42910%2F638823940809770000/1/0100019722ff98a8-71b754af-4e3e-4eaa-acaf-569fcb851120-000000/2UlcmqWMAKarNBI4mMLwWNHWBdufXczXWbqHbmm7v0k=407" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">here</a><span style="background-color: transparent;"> to view the May Guide.</span></li><li><span style="background-color: transparent;">Lathon Wider Community Center: On the morning of Thursday, January 2, the City Facilities Department was notified of a flooding incident in the basement of the Lathon Wider Community Center (137 Henry Street) caused by a failure in a piece of mechanical equipment. The target date for reopening the building is July 1, 2025. For any questions or urgent needs regarding the Health Department’s walk-in health services, please call (203)-977-5652.</span></li><li class="ql-indent-1"><span style="background-color: transparent;">The Stamford Health Department Community Public Health Clinic has temporarily moved to 138 Stillwater Avenue - a former Optimus location. Convenient street parking is available.</span></li><li><span style="background-color: transparent;">Curb Repair: Request for curb repairs can be submitted under the category "Roads" on Fixit at </span><a href="https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fveoci.com%2Fv%2Fp%2Fform%2Fwbvcc7v4ycns/1/0100019722ff98a8-71b754af-4e3e-4eaa-acaf-569fcb851120-000000/CPIweQqqT5iynLQhAsZb4_dAehQpZCXsktBAN06THMw=407" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">stamfordct.gov/fixit</a></li><li><span style="background-color: transparent;">Apply for a Special Events Permit: To reserve a pavilion or host events at city parks click </span><a href="https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fstamfordct.portal.opengov.com%2Fcategories%2F1091%2Frecord-types%2F6547/1/0100019722ff98a8-71b754af-4e3e-4eaa-acaf-569fcb851120-000000/SK-bmqfyFPmMuFBRVyMkz8IMKXOI_-tJXnRw4FjGfYQ=407" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">here</a><span style="background-color: transparent;">.</span></li></ul><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Virtual ESL Classes: JFS Greenwich will host basic level ESL Classes this summer. Beginning on June 2nd from 7:15 pm - 8:45 pm. Register </span><a href="https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fforms.cloud.microsoft%2Fpages%2Fresponsepage.aspx%3Fid=2Ja-QFezm0eKrvVxtYH_H-oiZMuqKZdLv44am6osMdxUQVpYUUo4RE0xMEpBSVhSNFRVOEZIWkZMRi4u%26route=shorturl/1/0100019722ff98a8-71b754af-4e3e-4eaa-acaf-569fcb851120-000000/5e7d2MC_kAx8yxUzNUQuDJ5gTVxdOAXKIPKDilcfpZU=407" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">here</a><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"> to participate and for more details.</span></p>

<p class="ql-align-center"><strong style="color: rgb(24, 25, 26);">FC Buzz Weekend May 30 - June 1</strong></p><p><span style="color: rgb(19, 19, 20);">HamletHub is proud to partner with the Cultural Alliance of Fairfield County and FCBuzz to Elevate Arts and Culture in Fairfield County! Each week, look for a listing of weekend events and activities. The Cultural Alliance of Fairfield County celebrates the vibrancy and diversity of the arts and culture across 15 towns in coastal Fairfield County. Sign up to receive a free eBuzz newsletter with top picks and spotlight events from the hundreds of events posted on FCBuzz.</span></p><p><a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/events/barnum-festival-concert-food-truck-festival-mullet-badboy" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong>Barnum Festival Concert & Food Truck Festival: MULLET & Badboy</strong></a></p><p><strong>1545 Monroe Turnpike, Monroe</strong></p><p>Friday May 30, 5:30 pm - 10:30 pm</p><p>An evening of good food, good company and the sounds of Mullett & Badboy!</p><p><a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/events/the-wedding-singer" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong>The Wedding Singer</strong></a></p><p><strong>New Canaan High School, New Canaan</strong></p><p>Friday May 30, 7:00 pm - 9:00 pm</p><p>Watch the talented cast bring this beloved romantic comedy to life on stage. The Wedding Singer takes us back to a time when hair was big, greed was good, collars were up and a wedding singer might just be the coolest guy in the room. Based on the hit Adam Sandler movie, The Wedding Singer's sparkling new score does for the '80s what Hairspray did for the '60s. Just say yes to the most romantic musical in twenty years.</p><p><a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/events/the-sweet-remains" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong>The Sweet Remains</strong></a></p><p><strong>StageOne at FTC, Fairfield</strong></p><p>Friday May 30, 8:00 pm - 11:00 pm</p><p>THE SWEET REMAINS is the very rare all-independent band to have nearly 60 MILLION SPOTIFY streams and counting! They're also unusual on today's music scene as a band headed by 3 gifted singer-songwriters, each of whom contribute to the writing and 3-part harmonies that define the band's sound.</p><p><a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/events/element-115" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong>ELEMENT 115</strong></a></p><p><strong>Bijou Theatre, Bridgeport</strong></p><p>Friday May 30, 8:00 pm - 10:30 pm</p><p>If you love Steely Dan / Genesis / Tears for Fears / Kansas / Bowie Then you would Love this Band. Seasoned Musicians Performing Music that gives you Goosebumps and you will Jump out of your seats! Please like us on Facebook and follow us from show to show!</p><p><a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/events/bethel-ct-pride-parade-celebration" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong>Bethel CT Pride Parade & Celebration</strong></a></p><p><strong>Clifford J. Hurgin Municipal Center, Bethel</strong></p><p>Saturday May 31, 12:00 pm - 5:00 pm</p><p>Celebrate and support the LGBTQ+ community at our FREE parade and celebration!</p><p><a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/events/harmony-on-the-hill" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong>Harmony on the Hill</strong></a></p><p><strong>Talmadge Hill Community Church, Darien</strong></p><p>Saturday May 31, 5:00 pm - 6:00 pm</p><p>Talmadge Hill Community Church welcomes you to our annual spring concert, Harmony on the Hill. It is our wish to bring harmony to our world through the gift of music by the talented musicians who are part of our special community. We’ll be offering a selection of piano, flute, guitar and vocals, ranging from folk and rock to jazz and classical.</p><p><a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/events/keys-to-empowerment-a-dueling-pianos-charity-night-2025" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong>Keys to Empowerment: A Dueling Pianos Charity Night 2025</strong></a></p><p><strong>Ponus Yacht Club Inc, Stamford</strong></p><p>Saturday May 31, 6:00 pm - 10:00 pmJoin us for an unforgettable evening at Keys to Empowerment: A Dueling Piano Charity Night! This high-energy fundraiser will be a night of music, dancing, laughter, and giving back. At Ready to Empower, we believe mental health is the foundation for strong communities. Join us for Keys to Empowerment, to raise funds for vital mental health services for women in need and launch our groundbreaking initiative to support educators through mental wellness - Ready EmpowerEd. Together, we’ll empower women, educators, and communities to thrive!</p><p><a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/events/harmony-lodge-200th-anniversary" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong>Harmony Lodge 200th Anniversary</strong></a></p><p><strong>New Canaan Historical Society, New Canaan</strong></p><p>Saturday May 31, 6:30 pm - 10:30 pm</p><p>A special in-person event commemorating two centuries of history and tradition. We invite you to be a part of this milestone occasion as we honor our past, celebrate the present, and look forward to the future. Come together with fellow members and friends for a night of dinner, drinks, and dancing. Let's make this anniversary a memorable one! See you there!</p><p><a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/events/the-british-rock-show" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong>The British Rock Show</strong></a></p><p><strong>Bijou Theatre, Bridgeport</strong></p><p>Saturday May 31, 8:00 pm - 10:30 pm</p><p>The British Rock Show delivers an electrifying live experience, celebrating all the legendary hits from the golden age of British Rock!</p><p><a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/events/food-truck-festival" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong>Food Truck Festival</strong></a></p><p><strong>Schenck’s Island and Chess Park, Wilton</strong></p><p>Sunday Jun 1, 11:00 am - 4:00 pm</p><p>Enjoy great food, immersive experiences, community unity, all while supporting Wilton’s museum at the Wilton Historical Society’s Food Truck Festival. On Sunday, June 1st, from 11am to 4 pm join Wilton Historical at Schenck’s Island and Chess Park, 202 Old Ridgefield Road, Wilton, CT 06897, to feast from a collection of the area’s finest food trucks, with all proceeds to benefit the Society.</p><p><a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/events/black-diamond-battle-league-presents-point-blank-range" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong>BLACK DIAMOND BATTLE LEAGUE PRESENTS : POINT BLANK RANGE</strong></a></p><p><strong>Creative Venue & Rentals, Bridgeport</strong></p><p>Sunday Jun 1, 1:00 pm - 9:00 pm</p><p><a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/events/gallery-exhibition-opening-reception-e9e87" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong>The 15th Biennial Miniature Print International Exhibition Opening Reception</strong></a></p><p><strong>Center for Contemporary Printmaking, Norwalk</strong></p><p>Sunday Jun 1, 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm</p><p>We are honored that many of the artists included in the exhibition will be able to attend the reception. Don’t miss this chance to meet the artist and gather with other print enthusiasts as you enjoy light appetizers and beverages.</p><p><a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/events/5-00-pm---five-year-anniversary-spring-showcase-2025" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong>Five Year Anniversary Spring Showcase 2025</strong></a></p><p><strong>Norwalk Concert Hall, Norwalk</strong></p><p>Sunday Jun 1, 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm</p><p>Celebrate our singers and five years of Greenwich A Cappella!</p><p>See these and discover hundreds more events on the <a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(2, 177, 151);">FCBUZZ EVENTS</a> page at <a href="https://culturalalliancefc.org/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(2, 177, 151);">https://culturalalliancefc.org</a> Sign up for the <a href="https://culturalalliancefc.org/resources/newsletter-sign-up/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(2, 177, 151);">Cultural Alliance eBuzz</a> to receive top picks and spotlights each week in your inbox.</p>

<p>It’s well established that physical activities are important for older adults to maintain their health, but equally valuable are activities that stimulate the brain to support cognitive health. “It’s extremely important to do everything you can to exercise your mind,” says 88-year-old Stephen Myers, a resident at Edgehill, a continuing care retirement community (CCRC) in Stamford, Conn. “It sounds like a truism but the more you use your mind the sharper it is.”</p><p>That’s why communities like Edgehill offer comprehensive programming in both physical fitness and cognitive wellbeing. Myers, for example, is a member of the Greenwich Retired Men’s Association (RMA) and organizes screenings at Edgehill of recorded lectures by the RMA’s guest speakers. He recently arranged <span style="color: black;">a recorded RMA talk given by a</span> supreme court judge that was heavily attended by Edgehill residents.</p><p>“We also get live speakers that range over every topic,” says Myers, a retired physicist. “Residents frequently hear invited experts speak on such topics as art, opera, history, health, climate change and foreign affairs. They’re serious topics and moderately technical.” </p><p>The resident Legislative Committee arranges for candidates for local, state and federal offices to present their views and answer questions from the Edgehill audience, while the Social Action Committee arranges volunteer and fundraising opportunities for residents to support the greater community. Two Edgehill associates also run group lectures and individual coaching to help residents master technology topics, like operating their smart phones, laptop computers and other digital devices.</p><p><a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7990770/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Studies show</a> that staying cognitively engaged helps adults fend off dementia and other forms of decline. Research also suggests that socialization plays a role in lower mortality rates and better mental health. In other words, reading a book is great for the brain but discussing that book in a group, like in Edgehill’s virtual reading and discussion group, brings added benefits.</p><p>“Our activities—many of which are resident driven—provide both stimulation and connection,” says Maureen Jennings, Edgehill’s director of resident services. “The enthusiasm for our programming proves that learning is a lifelong experience, and that curiosity continues to motivate us far into our senior years.</p><p>Sam Samaha stays both physically and mentally active with regular exercise and a full schedule of conversations, lectures, and—even at 98 years old—museum trips to New York City. He’s a regular attendee at Edgehill’s art lectures, which have helped him understand art in a new way.</p><p>“Going to a museum can be a real learning experience,” he says, taking advantage of trips to the Metropolitan Museum of Art with lecturer Helane Rheingold. “She’ll take us through certain wings, encouraging us to look at things differently. Before, I’d go to museums, and I’d rush by. Now we take the time to slow down and really see what the painter was trying to say.”</p><p>Edgehill also enjoys music and ballet performances, group-based strategy games like bridge and mahjong, knitting groups, art classes and much more. In particular, Myers and Samaha look forward to the annual resident art show which features paintings, photography and sculpture. “Every year all of us are amazed at the quality and imagination that goes into their work,” says Myers.</p><p>“Edgehill sometimes feels like a university,” says Jennings. “We have so many accomplished residents who share their interests and life experiences with their neighbors, who in turn are always eager to learn something new. They enrich each other’s lives.” </p>