WOODBRIDGE - Crafters and artisans will display their wares at the Seventh Annual Craft Fair from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Dec. 5 at the Jewish Community Center, 360 Amity Road.

The success of the JCC’s Craft Fair draws top crafters each year, organizers said. "Shop for all your holiday gifting, choosing from a remarkable variety of items including Israeli jewelry, glass decoupage, handmade baby quilts, children’s books and toys, packaged baked goods, food and Hanukkah gifts, tie-dyed children’s clothing, jewelry, accessories, pottery, home décor and more," organizers said in a statement.
All are welcome and there is no charge for admission for the Craft Fair.

While the JCC, bring the kids to the Family Chanukah Celebration in the Yeladim Learning Center. From 2 to 3:10 p.m., Chanukah theme stations will keep you and your children engaged in Chanukah fun and learning, the statement said. Then, from 3:15 to 3:30 p.m., it’s story time, with an interactive Chanukah story experience. All are welcome.
The Chanukah Celebration admission is $5 per child 18 months and older, with a $20 family maximum cost.

For more information about the JCC Craft Fair, call Cathy Lombardi at 203 387-2522 ex.225. For more information about the Chanukah Celebration, call Saskia Swenson Moss at 203 387-2522 ex. 317.

Editor's note: The information in this post was contributed wholly by event organizers. Elm City Express is pleased to share it here.

As we embark even more on our digital first revolution we have a bunch of new and exciting ways for you the reader to find Milford news even faster. Obviously, we post breaking news on our main web site www.nhregister.com throughout the day, and here on our All About Milford and Orange blog.

But we have also added several Twitter accounts to help inform you of Milford news as it happens. You can follow us on Twitter @nhrmilford, @nhrbmccready, and @nhregister. And remember to find the New Haven Register on Facebook were you will receive all the latest news and events for the entire New Haven County.

Thanks for continuing to get your news from the New Haven Register.

Tuesday night at 6:30 p.m. at City Hall it’s the Milford Fire Department’s Annual Award Ceremony. This is a special event where the fire department takes the time to recognize individuals that have gone above and beyond the call of duty. The department will be awarding the Medal of Bravery as well as other Administrative, Service and Fire Commissioner Awards to members of the Milford Fire Department.

This year the department will also be presenting special recognition to 5 civilians for their assistance at emergency calls. The public is urged to attend.

Lauralton Hall Presents “Christmas in Song”

Lauralton Hall will present its annual “Christmas in Song” concert at 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 9, in the Parsons Complex auditorium, 70 West River St, Milford. All are invited to attend this free performance which will feature members of Lauralton’s Concert Choir, Advanced Vocal Ensemble, Freshman Choir, and Instrumental Ensemble.
Voluntary donations of non-perishable food items will be accepted at the door to be given to local, needy residents.


About the School
Founded in 1905, the Academy of Our Lady of Mercy, Lauralton Hall, is the oldest college preparatory high school for girls in Connecticut. More than 400 students from throughout New Haven and Fairfield counties attend.

ORANGE - Students and teachers donned native dress for the 12th annual fourth-grade Pow Wow recently at Race Brook School.
Teachers Valerie Anton, Karen Dandelske and Jo-Anne Escandon organized the full day’s activities with the help of parent volunteers.
The Pow Wow is a component of a study unit on Eastern Woodland Indians, prefaced by students having an opportunity to visit the Mashantucket Pequot Museum, where they took notes that would later assist them in their first research project.
Children experienced many aspects of traditional native peoples’ lives, including food. Guided by parent leaders, students made and tasted Indian Fry Bread, maple sugar candy and fruit mint punch.
The classroom teacher, school nurse and parents collaborated to assure children with allergies could eat the native treats. Students also warmed themselves by the campfire outside the trading post, which featured popcorn, corn bread, beans and squash, as well as venison stew made by a former parent of Race Brook school who annually contributes to the festivities. Wampum shells, placed in hand-made wampum bags for each student, were exchanged for the snacks.
Pumpkin pie was a favorite among the students and adults.
In addition, students created a group story using native symbols on dyed paper to simulate writings on deer skin.
Playing native games with baskets, sticks, feathers and twine balls helped the youngsters demonstrate their dexterity and eye-hand coordination. The craft room was a favorite, where children made dream catchers, beaded necklaces and a Native American buzzer toy. Students also sang songs that tell stories of the daily lives of native people, accompanied by the beating of the ceremonial drum.
The teachers used the drum to announce the rotation of students to the different stations throughout the day. Culminating the event were dramatic interpretations by parents of the legends of “How the Wolverine Came To Be” and “How the Raccoon Got Its Mask.”

Editor's Note: The information in this post was contributed wholly by Race Brook School.

BRIDGEPORT —The SWIM Women’s Imaging Center will offer free and low-cost digital mammography screening for women age 35 and older on the following days: 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Dec. 8, Fairfield Public Health Department, 100 Mona Terrace, Fairfield; and 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Dec. 10, Easton Senior Center, 650 Morehouse Road, Easton.
The latest American Cancer Society guidelines recommend that all women have a mammogram by age 40, and then every year thereafter, the center said in a release.
Mammograms are free for those who do not have health insurance, have financial limitations and qualify for assistance, the release said. For those who do not have insurance but do not qualify for free services, mammograms are discounted. Appointments are necessary and a physician order and insurance card must be brought to the appointment, the release said.
To schedule an appointment or to find out when the mobile mammography unit will be in your area, call St. Vincent’s SWIM Women’s Imaging Center at (203) 576-5500. To schedule a screening site for your office, community center, school or church, call the Mobile Mammography Coordinator at (203) 576-5505.
"The mobile mammography program, one of the largest no-cost and low-cost mammography screening campaigns in all of Fairfield County, is made possible through St. Vincent’s SWIM Across the Sound, Connecticut’s leader in cancer education, prevention screenings and support services in the area," the release said.
St. Vincent’s SWIM Across the Sound is a charitable, grass roots organization run by the St. Vincent’s Medical Center Foundation of Bridgeport. Since 1987, the SWIM has had a unique niche, providing cancer education, screening and prevention programs at low- or no-cost for the uninsured and underinsured, the release said.

Editor's note: The information in this post was provided wholly by St. Vincent's SWIM Across the Sound

The Fairfield Public Library will continue the fall series "Small Business Strategies: A Special Series for Current and Prospective Entrepreneurs" at 7 p.m. Dec. 14 at 1080 Old Post Road.
The series is designed to generate a discussion with local businesses and concentrate on their specific needs, organizers said in a statement.
The upcoming presentation includes a special presentation entitled: "Critical Success Factors for Successful Entrepreneurs – Do You Have What it Takes to Become Bill Gates? What does it take to successfully start and grow your own business?"
Successful global entrepreneurs such as Bill Gates, Ozires Silva and Joy Mangano will be discussed, as well as critical topics including: strategic plans, key personality traits of entrepreneurs, pre-launch planning, impediments to success, unique selling propositions, and more, the statement said.
The presenter is Gad J. Selig, associate dean, Graduate Studies and Research Division, University of Bridgeport.
Doors open at 6:30 p.m. for informal networking.
All events are free and open to the public and registration is required: call 203-256-3160 or visit www.fairfieldpubliclibrary.org for a complete schedule of upcoming events.
The information in this post was contributed.

2010 FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS & TREE LIGHTING

The City of Milford’s 2010 Festival of Lights and Tree Lighting will take place on Friday, November 26th at the Gazebo on the Milford Green. Pre-lighting festivities will take place with horse and buggy rides courtesy of The Milford Bank from 5:30 – 8:00 PM. Free hot chocolate will be served courtesy of the Devon Rotary Club from 5:30 - 8:00 PM in the Milford Bank parking lot, 33 Broad Street. DJ Sheila and The Milford Concert Band will fill the air with holiday selections beginning at 5:30 PM. Over 50,000 lights will light up the Green at approximately 6:30 PM. when the arrival of a very special jolly elf, dressed in red will be brought to us by the Milford Professional Firefighters Association. Milford Chamber officials and Mayor Richetelli will be on hand to help with the lighting. Immediately following the tree lighting, Santa will be on hand to greet children. Photos with Santa provided courtesy of Milford Photo.

The Downtown Milford Business Association will provide luminaries to a festive downtown Milford. Come dine & shop. Enjoy carolers. Retail stores will remain open until 9:00 PM.

The mission of the Milford Chamber of Commerce, as the clearinghouse for business, is to enhance business opportunity, empower its members and influence positive economic growth. For more information contact: Kathy Alagno, President & CEO at 203-878-0681 or email kalagno@milfordct.com.

Beth-El annual holiday musical event expands to include dance performance by Lee Lund Dance Companies.

The annual “Spirit of Love” concert to benefit the Beth-El Center will take place on
Saturday December 11th at the Parson’s Center. This year’s Committee decided it was time to “mix it up a little” according to event chair, Teresa Cavaliero, “We see this as an opportunity to showcase an outstanding dance troupe, located right here in Milford.”

The Lee Lund Dance Companies was started in 1985, by Lee Lund with 10 professionals & 4 students from the New Haven area. Still family run, it has grown to a group of 50 student, pre-professional, & professional dancers. The dancers’ ages range from 8 yrs. in the youngest company to 29 yrs in the NYC/Milford based company.

The Lee Lund Companies started performing through the Milford Fine Arts Council in "Jazz + More", continued performing at the Ct. Post Mall, local schools, "The Lamp Light Stroll" in Milford, Pink Tent Festival, Sturbridge Dance Festival in Mass., & their annual concert at Jonathan Law High School. The companies have performed in music videos: "Say No to Drugs", Brenda K. Star's "I Still Believe", Lisa, Lisa + The Cult Jam's "Head to Toe", as well as 8 To The Bar- shot at Amity High School in Woodbridge. The Lee Lund Dance Studio was voted the #1 Dance Studio by the New Haven Advocate's Readers Choice Award.

In addition to the Lee Lund Dance Companies, the program will include the Coastal Chordsmen and Steve D’Agostino, Singin’ and Swingin’ the Great American Standards.

Doors open at 6:30 p.m. for a Balloon raffle of exquisite theme baskets which include gift certificates from area jewelers and restaurants. The concert starts at 7:30 p.m. Local radio personality, Brian Smith will be the Master of Ceremonies. Tickets are $25 for general admission, $15 for 17 years and under; under 6 years- free are available at The Canvas Patch, Milford Photo, and Somethin’ of Bev’s. .

For tickets or to place an ad in the program book contact Teresa Cavaliero, Event Chair at 203- 882- 8649 or Maria Tomasetti , 203-988-8598.

The concert, sponsored by Briarpatch Enterprises and Milford Bank, will benefit the Beth El Center in Milford. For over 25 years, Beth El has served the needy by assisting them on their way to independent living. The Center provides shelter and case management services to homeless individuals and families. Many people who are homeless today are likely to be single parents with children who have fallen through the social services safety net. Residents are admitted for a 90-day period. Case managers assist residents to obtain work, education, and treatment that will assist them with meeting life’s daily challenges.

The Center also operates a Soup Kitchen. Staffed by volunteers, it serves 50 to 60 hot, nutritious lunches each day, Monday through Friday.

Beth-El Center is located at 90 New Haven Avenue in Milford and is a faith-based program supported by a coalition of 15 Milford/Orange churches.

New England Ballet Company

Nutcracker

New England Ballet Company continues its tradition of winter holiday performances of the holiday favorite, Nutcracker, returning to the stage for the 19th year under the artistic direction of Kenneth Hopkins and Karen Goodman. In this large cast, professionally choreographed production, the audience is transported to a magical place filled with adorable children, marching toy soldiers, a villainous Rat Queen and mischievous mice. Enter the Land of Sweets through a dreamy on-stage snowstorm led by the glamorous Snow Queen, with little angels to light the way. The Sugar Plum Fairy and her Cavalier dance for Clara and the Nutcracker Prince and welcome them into a fantasy world of waltzing flowers, dancing princesses, and Mother Ginger and her precocious children. A wonderful ballet for the entire family, Nutcracker is the perfect way to introduce children to the power and beauty of classical dance. Performances will be at the Parsons Auditorium, 70 West River Street, Milford on Saturday, December 18th at 12:00 p.m. and 4 p.m. and a matinee performance on Sunday, December 19th, at 1:00 p.m. Tickets are $20-$45. For more information and to reserve your tickets call (203)799-7950 or visit the website at www.NewEnglandBallet.org


Debut Performance of Adaptive Nutcracker

New England Ballet Company presents the debut performance of an integrated dance and theatre program for individuals with autism and special needs in an adaptation of Nutcracker Suite on December 17th, at 7:30 p.m. at the Parson’s Auditorium, 70 West River Street in Milford. This very special performance is a collaborative effort between New England Ballet Company, the City of Milford’s Adaptive Arts Program, and the Kennedy Center, Inc. The program is designed to be recreational fun for children and young adults of all abilities, incorporating music, movement, dance, theatre, and social interaction. This holiday performance celebrates the joy and excitement of performing together and is sure to touch your heart. Tickets are $20. Call 203-799-7950 to reserve your tickets and for information about group rates and special discounts for aides and companions.

The Klezical Tradition made a two-part appearance at Housatonic Community College Nov. 18 when Jewish Culture was spotlighted as part of the college’s 3rd Thursday Cultural Celebration series, officials said.

Shown in top photo, Adrianne Greenbaum (right) of Fairfield, a member of The Klezical Tradition, presents a veil to Housatonic Community College student Erin Reed, left, of Orange, who plays the bride during a performance of a Jewish pre-wedding dance at the college. Band member Rayhan Pasternak of Fairfield (second from left) provides violin music while HCC student Shawn Gibson of Bridgeport (third from left), who plays the groom, looks on.

In lower photo, Housatonic Community College student Erin Reed of Orange plays the part of a scolding mother/mother-in-law during a performance of Jewish pre-wedding dance at the college. The dance was part of a performance by the band.

The information in this post was provided wholly by Housatonic Community College.

To learn more, visit the HCC website at: http://www.hcc.commnet.edu/.

And they make it easy...


MILFORD - Local 944 and the Milford Fire Department will hold it’s annual “Cookies for Soldiers” drop off on Dec. 7, at 72 New Haven Ave.


Anyone with a family member serving oversees who would like them to be a recipient of cookies can contact the Milford Fire Department at 874-6321 between 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.


Anyone wishing to donate home baked cookies, can drop them off at Fire Headquarters and the department will then package them for shipment, Capt. Christopher D. Zak said.

The Milford Jaycees are collecting donations for their 4th annual "Soldier Drive" at various retail outlets in the greater Milford area including the UPS Store at 167 Cherry St. and the EZ Access Storage on 540 New Haven Ave. until Nov. 28.

The Jaycees will send care packages to soldiers from the greater Milford area stationed overseas, organizers said in a statement.
A collection drive will be held on Sunday, November 28th from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Nov. 28 at Walmart located at 1365 Boston Post Road.

"Please include Connecticut soldiers in your shopping this holiday season,"" organizers said in the statement.

Some of the items sought include: socks, toiletries, (toothbrushes, toothpaste, deodorant, etc), shoe insoles and powder, books and magazines, powdered energy drinks, granola bars and beef jerky. Monetary donations also are appreciated. The donations will help defray the cost of packaging materials and shipping. Checks can be made out to the Milford Jaycees and mailed to 167 Cherry Street P.O. Box 284 Milford, 06460 or brought to the collection drive on Nov. 28 at Walmart.
"My absolute favorite part of the soldier drive is the packing party, because we get to see all of the hard work of the Jaycees and the generosity of the community come together for our soldiers, " Milford Jaycees President Jessica Kosturko said in the statment.

STRATFORD — The town kicks off the holidays Dec. 1 by lighting a Christmas tree made of recycled industrial products.
Created by Christopher Curnan, a Connecticut painter, sculptor and photographer, the 25-foot tree is the result of collaboration between the Economic Development Commission and the CRRA Garbage Museum, according to a statement.
Curnan said the tree’s branches are made of discarded home oil tanks, which he flattened using a giant excavating machine, the statement said.

"The result resembles a highly stylized blue spruce," the statement said.
The lighting is part of a festival, in its second year, which will include a holiday magic show at the Stratford Library, Bunnell School Choir, Santa Claus on a fire engine "sleigh" (free photos with St. Nick for children are offered), free hot chocolate, snowflake, wreath and garland decorations, luminaries lining Main Street, and Victorian-costumed carolers strolling downtown, the statement said.
The tree will be erected on West Broad Street Green; festivities begin at 5:30 p.m., the statement said

ORANGE - Students and staff at Race Brook School gathered to honor veterans during a very special recent assembly, school officials said in a statement.

"The veterans were very impressed with the warm welcoming and excellent attentive behavior of over 400 elementary students during the hour-long assembly," the statement said.

The majority of the attending veterans were relatives and friends of the school’s families.

The youngest to attend the assembly was 22 and a former graduate of Race Brook School, the statement said.

The oldest veteran was 91 and is having a book published, titled "My War, A Story Which Involves Horror and Humor," by Tech Sgt. Bob Swrisky.

The children sang well-rehearsed songs to pay tribute to the veterans, including the song “Proud of Our Veterans.”

"A vivid and impressive PowerPoint presentation on the allied invasion of Normandy during World War II was narrated by a guest veteran, the statement said.

The children also wrote "heartfelt poems of gratitude and handed them out to their guests during the assembly."

The veteran guests were further honored in the classrooms after the assembly where they had the opportunity to share their backgrounds in serving our country and answer questions for students, the statement said.

Many of the veterans shared treasured memorabilia of their service, including medals and scrapbook photos. The veteran guests had the opportunity to continue their conversations in a continental breakfast reception provided by the Student Council and held in the school’s library.

"The guests were very touched by the school’s efforts to acknowledge all of the veterans as patriots and heroes who showed courage and strength and made many sacrifices for the freedom of our country," the statement said.

The assembly and the activities afterwards were carefully planned and organized by the directors of the school’s Student Council: JoAnne Escandon and Pam Galatioto.

Editor's note: The information and photos in this post were provided wholly by Race Brook School

Bridgeport Hospital recently broke ground for a new comprehensive, satellite outpatient cancer center at 5520 Park Avenue in Trumbull.

The center is to be known as the Norma F. Pfriem Cancer Institute Park Avenue Campus and it is centrally located near the Bridgeport, Easton and Fairfield lines, the statement said.

Among those who took part in the groundbreaking ceremony were Trumbull First Selectman Timothy Herbst, U.S. Rep. Jim Himes, Bridgeport Hospital President & CEO William Jennings, Co-Medical Directors of the hospital’s Norma F. Pfriem Cancer Institute Drs. Robert Folman and Scott Thornton,and hospital Chief of Radiation Oncology Dr. Sheida Mani, the statement said.

"A new 10,000-square foot building for radiation oncology and other services will be constructed next to an existing medical building at the site that houses medical and surgical oncology services provided by physicians associated with Bridgeport Hospital, including chemotherapy, a laboratory draw station and patient support programs," the statement said.

In the photo, pictured at the groundbreaking, from left, are Bridgeport Hospital Chairman of Medicine Dr. Nicholas Dainiak, Norma F. Pfriem Cancer Institute Co-Medical Director Dr. Robert Folman, hospital President & CEO William Jennings, Trumbull First Selectman Timothy Herbst, Norma F. Pfriem Cancer Institute Co-Medical Director Dr. Scott Thornton, hospital Chief of Radiation Medicine Dr. Sheida Mani, radiation oncologist Dr. Bruce McGibbon, Congressman Jim Himes, project developer Phil DiGennaro and hospital Senior Vice President of Planning & Marketing Lyn Salsgiver.

The new building is expected to open in the fall 2011.

“With the completion of the new building, we will, in effect, create a full suburban campus for the Norma F. Pfriem Cancer Institute,” Folman said at the ceremony, the statement said.

Bridgeport Hospital’s outpatient radiation oncology services will relocate from their current location at 15 Corporate Drive in the northern part of Trumbull to be closer to the Merritt Parkway and I-95, the statement said.

“Once open, this new site will give our patients upgraded surroundings and technology and more convenient access to care in a suburban setting,” Mani said in the statement.

The project will include installation of a state-of-the-art linear accelerator that will provide a wide range of advanced radiation therapy services, including Intensity-Modulated Radiation Therapy, Image-Guided Radiation Therapy and Stereotactic Radiosurgery, the statement said.

Bridgeport Hospital’s radiation oncologists, including Mani and Drs. Bruce McGibbon and Suzanne Evans, are expert physicians from the Yale School of Medicine and Yale Cancer Center, the statement said.

They will see patients in Trumbull as well as at Bridgeport Hospital, the statement said.

“Bridgeport Hospital and the Norma F. Pfriem Cancer Institute are committed to providing a full array of outpatient services in the communities we serve, coupled with the very best inpatient services at Bridgeport Hospital,” Jennings said while presiding over his first groundbreaking ceremony as the hospital’s president & CEO, the statement said. “We will continue to provide the latest and greatest in cancer treatments, as well as comfort and hope, to our patients.”

The Norma F. Pfriem Cancer Institute at Bridgeport Hospital provides care to more than 1,000 newly-diagnosed cancer patients annually, more than any other hospital in Fairfield County, the statement said.

The hospital is a member of the Yale-New Haven Cancer Network, an alliance of hospitals across Connecticut that provides access to the latest breakthroughs and delivers an unparalleled level of expertise in cancer, prevention, diagnosis and treatment the statement said.

Editor's note: The information and photo in this post were provided wholly by Bridgeport Hospital.

The annual Christmas Tree Sale run by the boys of Scout Troop 63 of Woodbridge will begin at 9 a.m. Nov. 27 in the back of the former Woodbridge Fire House at the corner of Center and Newton roads.
Parking for the sale is available in the senior center parking lot, rganizers said in a statement.
The sale will be held from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Saturdays, and Sundays and 3 to 8 p.m., weeknights.

The Boy Scouts have made arrangements with growers to provide "wonderfully fresh balsam Christmas trees, all beautifully shaped," the statement said.
Free delivery is available, just ask one of the scouts when you buy your tree, the statement said.
Wreaths, created locally, are also available for $18 each.
Each 16” wreath is individually distinctive, decorated with pinecones and a festive red all-weather ribbon, the statement said. Also, 48 inch plain or decorative wreaths will also be available for $65, the statement said.

Our Lady of the Assumption Church, Woodbridge, also "has graciously allowed Troop 63 to sell Christmas wreaths at the chapel and rectory starting at 9:30 a.m. Dec. 5, Dec. 12 and 19. All proceeds benefit the Boy Scouts of Troop 63.

Inquiries for volume discounts, special circumstances or size requirements can be made to Charles Whiting, Troop 63’s Committee chairman at (203) 387-5678.
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The Norma F. Pfriem Foundation recently presented an annual grant of $2 million to support the programs and services of the Norma F. Pfriem Cancer Institute and Norma F. Pfriem Breast Care Center at Bridgeport Hospital.
“As Bridgeport Hospital’s new president and CEO, I have been delighted to learn about the long tradition of support which has allowed the hospital to deliver the safest, most advanced and compassionate care to our patients,” William M. Jennings, who became the hospital’s chief administrator on Oct. 1, said in a statement.
“The late Norma Pfriem and the Norma Pfriem Foundation have been an integral part of that tradition.”
During the past year, the Pfriem Foundation gift aided Bridgeport Hospital in constructing a new outpatient chemotherapy suite, the statement said. Also, the Norma F. Pfriem Breast Care Center location at the hospital received a new digital mammography suite, it said.
An earlier gift from the Norma F. Pfriem Foundation resulted in the renaming of Bridgeport Hospital’s cancer program as the Norma F. Pfriem Cancer Institute, the statement said. "The new name also signaled a widening focus, including participation in more clinical trials, the creation of new cancer centers of excellence for gastrointestinal, gentiourological, gynecological and thoracic cancers, as well as the expansion of patient and family support initiatives," the statement said.
The sister of late Bridgeport Post (later Connecticut Post) publisher John Pfriem, Norma Pfriem was inspired to support Bridgeport Hospital’s cancer services by the care her brother received in the 1980s.
Over the years, Norma Pfriem’s gifts to the hospital have led to many improvements in cancer services, including enhancements to Bridgeport Hospital’s oncology patient unit in 1994 and the establishment of the Norma F. Pfriem Breast Care Center in 1999.
The Breast Care Center now has locations at Bridgeport Hospital and at 111 Beach Road in Fairfield, the statement said.

Bridgeport Hospital will celebrate the season’s diverse holiday and faith traditions during the annual Gift of Light ceremony, 3–4:30 p.m., Dec. 2, in the hospital’s main lobby, 267 Grant St., officials said in a statement.
The event, which features musical performances and banners contributed by local schools and religious congregations, is free and open to the public, the statement said.
For information, call 203-384-3211.
Entertainment will be provided by the Childport Cherubs from Bridgeport Hospital’s employee daycare center at 3:15 p.m., the statement said.
Bridgeport Hospital’s Caring Carolers employee choir performs at 3:30 and 4:30 p.m. and Bridgeport’s Hall School Choir at 4 p.m.
Organizations contributing banners to the event include: St. Ambrose School, Bridgeport – Christmas; Congregation B’nai Torah, Trumbull – Hanukkah; Hall Neighborhood School, Bridgeport – Three Kings Day; and Harding High School, Bridgeport – Kwanzaa; Al Aziz Islamic Center, Bridgeport – Ramadan.
Bridgeport Hospital president and CEO William Jennings and Bridgeport Hospital Foundation President Steve Jakab "will convey holiday wishes, and the observance will conclude with reflections on the holidays and a special Christmas tree and menorah lighting ceremony outside the hospital’s main entrance," the statement said..
Gift of Light contributions may be made through the Bridgeport Hospital Foundation to benefit the hospital’s Department of Spiritual Care & Education Pet Therapy Program. For more information about donations, call 203-283-3522 or visit www.bridgeporthospital.org/Foundation.

This Thanksgiving weekend area volleyball players and fans will return for an annual community event "that benefits the children of the beautiful and spiritual, but impoverished nation of Nepal" and also supports an Amity scholarship in memory of Jeremy Saxe, shown in photo, organizers said.

Everyone is invited to come out and play or just watch at the Jeremy Saxe 3rd Annual Memorial Volleyball Tournament from 3 to 6 p.m. Nov. 26 at Amity High School, organizers said.

The event will give folks a chance to enjoy snacks and catch up with friends, even those who can spare only a few minutes to say hello.

The tournament committee would love to see old friends and welcome new friends, organizers said.

The event is organized in a Sixes Coed Tournament style, so participants are asked to sign up as a team of 6 (at least two girls per team) or sign up as a single and get placed on a team.

Players should submit their names individually (to be added to teams) or team rosters by email to jsvbtourney@gmail.com or at the Facebook Event page "Jeremy Saxe 3rd Annual Memorial Volleyball Game."

There is a suggested $5 donation for spectators and $10 for players. Refreshments will be available for purchase before and during the game. There will also be a 50-50 raffle.
All proceeds support Jiwanko Saathiharu: Jeremy Saxe Foundation for Education and Development, an independent social development organization with 501 (c)3 tax exempt status formed by Jeremy’s friends, colleagues and family, according to a statement.

The Jeremy Saxe Memorial Volleyball Tournament, established in November 2008 by volleyball teammates, honors Jeremy Saxe who lost his life on Sept. 4, 2008 from an undiagnosed heart condition: hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, organizers said in a statement.

Saxe graduated Amity High School in 2005. He was an outstanding student, co-captain of the soccer, ski racing and volleyball teams and voted MVP for all three sports.

He attended Lafayette College, where he maintained a 3.84 overall GPA as a philosophy major. In the spring of his junior year he studied abroad in Nepal where he fell in love with the country and its people and committed his future to international development, the statement said.

While in Nepal, Saxe was given the Nepali name, Jiwan, which means "life" and Jiwanko Saathiharu translates to "Friends of Jeremy/Friends of Life."The foundation, which is building a school in Pharping, Nepal, also supports an Amity scholarship in Saxe’s name that is awarded annually to the student that best exemplifies his qualities, including: athletic ability, academic achievement, intellectual curiosity, sportsmanship and a sincere interest in improving the world and benefiting those who are less fortunate.

Over the past year the foundation has been moving forward with plans for the building of a school in the village where Saxe lived as part of his home stay experience. Last summer, foundation directors spent 15 days in Nepal conducting meetings that were extremely productive and educational, the statement said.

The foundation toured many governmental, community based, and private schools in and around Kathmandu. Meetings were held with representatives of the United Nations Development Program, UNICEF, UN Human Rights Commission, Nepal’s Undersecretary of Education, many international NGOs and national NGOs. the statement said.

"The highlight of the Nepal trip was a day-long meeting with A School for Community, a local grassroots NGO serving the community of Pharping. After reading Jeremy’s field study notes, including extensive interviews he had with the principals of ASC, they were delighted to meet with ASC and see how their programs had flourished since Jer had written his development paper on their initiatives in 2008. The exchange of ideas, and the energy level generated, was extremely encouraging. As a result of these meetings, the Pharping community agreed to donate the land to support a brand new 9-12 High School," the statement said.

To volunteer, or for more information, e-mail jsvbtourney@gmail.com.

Contributions can be mailed to Jeremy Saxe Foundation c/o SDV 1952 Whitney Avenue Hamden, 06517.

The tournament committee thanks this year’s sponsors: Amity Mobil, Racebrook Wine & Liquor World, Saxe Doernberger & Vita, P.C. and Bruegger’s Bagels of Orange.
For more about the foundation,visit here.

BRIDGEPORT - The new Bridgeport Arts and Cultural Council will hold an opening reception for its inaugural exhibition, "75th Anniversary of the Sculptors Guild," organized by Alvin Sher and sponsored by the Housatonic Museum of Art from 4 to 6 p.m. on Nov. 10.
"This celebration marks the occasion of the Sculptors Guild mission to explore new directions in contemporary art-making and is the official launch of the newly formed Bridgeport Arts and Cultural Council, lead by the recently appointed executive director, Kenneth Kahn," organizers siad in a statement.
The festivities will take place at The Vault Gallery at City Trust, with access to the space through 957 Main St.
The Sculptors Guild has since 1937 promoted public interest in contemporary sculpture through exhibitions in public spaces and through education, the statement said.
"For the past several years, the Guild has exhibited members work on New York City’s historic Governor’s Island. Artist members continue to redefine trajectories in digital, multimedia, installation, nonobjective, figurative, abstract and new technology art," the statement said.
The exhibit features work by Alvin Sher and David Smalley of East Lyme, Judith Steinberg of Southport, Beth Ann Morrison and Gina Miccinilli of New Jersey, Gail Goldsmith, Phillip Simmons, Renata Menasse Schwebel, Miguel Castillo, Martha Walker, Gilbert Boro and Stephen Keltner of New York, the statement said.
The show opens in conjunction with Urban Essence, curated by Janine Brown and Thomas Mezzanotte, is the inaugural exhibition for the BACC, the statement said. Brown and Mezzanotte searched the Fairfield County area to find 11 photographers and artists that were inspired by thecCity of Bridgeport. Brown said, also in the statement, that “Urban Essence refers to the images captured by area artists that show the spirit of Bridgeport through the use of photography.”
"A blend of urban landscape and human interest, the photographs in this exhibition give viewers a snapshot into the world of Bridgeport today," the statement said.
The photographers include Michelle Beaulieu, Jeff Becker, Keyvan Behpour, Sean Corbett, Pamela Einarsen, Eileen Fitzsmith, Erik Hup, Bernd Krauss, Jesse Neider, Morgaine Pauker, and Larry Silver.
The reception at the Arcade Building and The Vault Gallery at City Trust signifies the start of two exhibitions, and will kick off a long weekend of arts activities throughout Bridgeport during the 2nd Annual Bridgeport Art Trail sponsored by City Lights Gallery, the statement said.
The Vault Gallery is open 11 a.m.-9 p.m., Monday through Thursday, and Fridays, 11 a.m.-10p.m. Closed Saturday and Sunday.
These events are open to the public at no cost.
Editor's note: This post was wholly provided by Housatonic Community College

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The Fairfield Public Library will continue its program "Small Business Strategies: A Special Series for Current and Prospective Entrepreneurs" at 7 p.m. Nov. 15 with a special presentation entitled "Social Media – Fad or Here to Stay?" organizers said.

The explosive popularity of social media, such as Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn, YouTube and others, can lead to big opportunities for businesses, organizers said. However, it’s not a one-size fits all approach.

"Join us as we demystify the multitude of options," organizers said in a statement.
The presenters, Amy DeLardi and Ed Kuryluk, both shown, are successful small business owners in Fairfield, the statement said.

Doors open at 6:30 p.m. for informal networking.

All events are free and open to the public but registration is required: call 203-256-3160 or visit here for a complete schedule of upcoming Small Business Strategies events.

STRATFORD — The Connecticut Resources Recovery Authority’s education centers at the Garbage Museum will celebrate America Recycles Day from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Nov. 20.

The event is open to the public.
It will feature "Time to Recycle," a recycled art show displaying pieces created by artist Michael Johnston of Bridgeport, according to a statement.
Johnston works with recycled electronics and other discarded materials to make what he calls "assemblage sculptures," the statement said. He said, also in the statement, "I have always been intrigued by the abstract idea of time, as well as timepieces in general."
He explores the "usefulness of the useless" by disassembling discarded computers, radios and other electronic devices and creating functional clock sculptures, the statement said.

"I want people to be overwhelmed with curiosity and intrigue for the art works, finding it difficult to walk by without stopping first," he said.
Johnston enjoys the challenges of using other people’s trash as a medium, the statement said. "With a collective effort focused on sustaining our planet, we can all contribute to the longevity of our resources," he said.
The "Time to Recycle" art show will run until Dec. 30.
Visitors to the Garbage Museum may join in Museum tours, create a wallpaper pencil holder made from recycled materials, watch movies and explore Museum exhibits that demonstrate how trash may be reduced, reused or recycled, the statement said.
The Garbage Museum features Trash-o-saurus, a one-ton dinosaur made from trash. Guests may take part in scavenger hunts and an all-time favorite activity, Trash Bash.
The CRRA Garbage Museum is located at 1410 Honeyspot Road Extension, Stratford. For more information, call 203-381-9571 or find the Garbage Museum on Facebook. Admission at the Garbage Museum in Stratford is $2 per person, free for children age 3 and younger.