10.13 TOWN UPDATE

Dear Fairfielders,

Last evening, I sent out a newsletter on the horrific events taking place in Israel and a message from law enforcement. In case you missed it, you can read it here.  I hope you will remember in your prayers all those, here and abroad, who are grieving, fearing for their families, and all the innocent victims of violence and terrorism.
 
 
‘Fairfield Stands with Ukraine - Supporting Our Sister City Kostiantynivka" Special Community Event Friday, October 27 6 - 9PM at the SHU Community Theatre 
 
Ukraine continues to fight for its democracy against an unwarranted invasion. I hope residents will join in with other businesses, individuals, organizations, and coalitions for this special community event filled with local Ukrainian music, art and cultural performances to show our support for and solidarity with the residents of Kostiantynivka, Ukraine.
 
Sponsored by the Town of Fairfield in partnership with Ukraine Aid International, our goal is to help raise money and collect supplies for this worn torn city and contribute to fostering a connection between the United States and Ukraine.

Specifically, we are seeking to provide heavy equipment to clear debris and vehicles for safe evacuation and delivery of urgent aid for residents of Fairfield’s Sister City.
 
I participate in regular zoom calls with Kostiantynivka Mayor Roslov and the team from Ukrainian International.  This Monday we held another a zoom call while members of Ukraine International were on the ground in Kostiantynivka.  Ukraine International also shared this photo of Mayor Roslov proudly displaying the Fairfield Flag I sent to him.  Mayor Roslov shared with me the news of another bombing of his town. My heart is heavy when I think of this young Mayor who has a wife and two young children, responsible for a town just like Fairfield that is under attack by the Russians.  

Ukrainian International took this video recently while visiting our sister city in Ukraine which shows the devastation Kostiantynivka is experiencing.  You can watch it here.
Sponsorships, donations, and ticket sales will go a long way in helping this devasted community survive while they continue to fight for their democracy.
 
Sponsorship inquiries and any questions are welcome at Fairfield@UkraineAidInternational.org.

You can learn more about Fairfield’s Sister City initiative here.
PURCHASE TICKETS HERE
DONATE HERE
 
 
 
TOWN GOVERNMENT NEWS
NEW WEBSITE 
When we first got to Town Hall the website was one of the of many items in need of an overhaul. The town needed a more user-friendly and modernized web experience for our residents and businesses. The new site also brings it up to date with language translations, ADA compliance, and overall, a more inclusive website for our community.
 
I’d like to thank our Town’s Webmaster Merry Mao and IT Director Dave Kelley, Community & Economic Development Director Mark Barnhart, and all our department heads and staff working to transfer to a new system. It was more work than most people realize, but the benefits will be felt for many years.
 
PENFIELD PAVILION REPAIR
Many residents will notice that the repair and remediation of Penfield Pavilion has now begun. Updates on the project at Penfield Pavilion are provided monthly at the BOS meetings. The Town continues to update the Penfield Construction Project webpage, you can read the updates here

By way of reminder, contaminated fill from the (Julian) fill pile was illegally deposited beneath Penfield Pavilion during construction. By state and federal law, the Town is required to remove it. During the 2015 rebuild of Penfield Pavilion, the former administration knowingly installed horizontal grade beams at a height in violation of federal floodplain management regulations. Under federal law, the Town is required to bring the site into compliance.  To comply with CT DEEP and the EPA, the Town will be remediating the fill.  To address the FEMA Notice of Violation, the Town will modify the existing buildings foundation (excluding the locker room portion).
 
TOWN ELECTRIC CARS
I am excited to announce that Fairfield has taken a significant step by transitioning its very old municipal Crown Victoria car fleet to new electric vehicles (EVs). This strategic shift demonstrates the town's commitment to sustainability, environmental stewardship, and forward-thinking infrastructure.  These vehicles will save the town significant money on gas and maintenance. I want to thank Chief Administrative Officer Tom Bremer, Project Manager Elias Ghazal, and Purchasing Director Adam Tulin, for their work securing Nissan Leafs through local business owner Paul Miller, from Paul Miller Nissan.  Look for our six new cars on the road as part of the first phase of our transition to an EV fleet. This project was paid for using federal American Rescue Plan Act funding. 
 
CAPITAL PLAN WORKING GROUP
This week we held our second capital plan working group where we discussed projects from Fire, Police, Parks & Recreation and the Board of Education. These workshops are in preparation for the Board of Finance Capital Workshop on October 19. 

I created the bipartisan Capital Plan Working Group made up of varying stakeholders, to assess and prioritize the many needs the Town, Water Pollution Control Authority and Board of Education have on the horizon. This process is new for our town, but I believe it is helpful in an effort to take a deep dive into the many competing needs Fairfield faces.  I also implemented a bonding cap in consultation with the town’s financial advisors to control the amount the town puts on its credit card, to protect our fiscal health and guide the capital planning process. You can watch the meetings here
 
ROAD PAVING CONTINUES
After a great deal of rain delays, we made significant progress in our road paving plan this week. This list of roads set for next week are:
1. Pond Street
2. Flushing Avenue
3. Curtis Terrace
4. Crest Terrace
5. Golf View Terrace
6. Casmir Drive
7. London Terrace
8. Wynn Wood Drive
9. Meadowcrest Drive
10. Cedar Woods Lane
 
TAX COLLECTOR REMINDS RESIDENTS OF REAL ESTATE AND SEWER USE TAXES DUE
Real Estate taxes for the 2nd quarter and 1st installment Sewer Use taxes were due on October 1, 2023, and the last day to pay timely is Wednesday November 1, 2023.  On November 2, 2023, statutory interest accrues at an initial rate of 3%. Per state statute interest accrues at 1.5% per month from the original due date of October 1, 2023. 

Original tax bills can be paid at any M & T bank branch location between October 1, 2023, and November 1, 2023.  You do not need to be a customer. For more details on payment options, penalties and contact information, view the Legal Notice or contact the Tax Department.
 
DUCK FARM ROAD BRIDGE IS OPEN
On Tuesday, October 3rd, I walked with Riverfield Elementary School students, parents, and Fairfield Superintendent Mike Testani for National Walk & Roll to School Day. The day coincided with the reopening of Duck Farm Bridge. 

The $3.7 million project was approved in the fall of 2021; nearly $3 million of the cost is being paid through grants from the Federal Local Bridge Program.

The Town of Fairfield thanks the Project Manager, Elias Ghazal, of the Engineering Department for his dedication and hard work shepherding this long overdue bridge project to completion. Previous updates and photos of the construction of the bridge can be found here. We greatly appreciate the public's patience during this important safety infrastructure project. 
 
SEEKING RESIDENTS TO SERVE ON THE FAIR RENT COMMISSION 
Interested in serving on a Town Board or Commission? Pursuant to State Statute, the RTM recently created a Fair Rent Commission for the purpose of controlling and eliminating excessive rental charges for housing accommodations within the Town.  We are now accepting applications for those interested in serving as a member on the Commission.  To learn more about the roles and responsibilities of the Fair Rent Commission click here
 
DRAFT PLAN OF CONSERVATION AND DEVELOPMENT (POCD) FOR REVIEW AND COMMENT
As I shared in the previous few newsletters, the Town Plan and Zoning Department has presented the draft Plan of Conservation and Development (POCD).  This process began in 2018 with initial outreach to Town Departments and other Boards and Commissions. 

Public comment is welcome and can be directed to TPZCommission@fairfieldct.org.
 
COMMUNITY NEWS
 
UI | FAIRFIELD TO CONGRESS SUBSTATION BRIDGEPORT RAILROAD TRANSMISSION LINE REBUILD PROJECT
On Wednesday, October 4th, at my request, United Illuminating (UI) held a Town Hall meeting.  I sent out an update last week with a link to the meeting, you can read it here

On Friday, after the town hall meeting on Wednesday October 4th, I convened a meeting with the intervening attorneys including the town's legal counsel and Fairfield state representatives to discuss next steps. I reaffirmed my verbal request from the town hall meeting in a formal letter to the President of UI asking the company to withdraw their application and resubmit to allow for all those impacted be included in a new design that doesn’t severely impact our community. You can read my letter here.

You can email your comments to the Siting Council at siting.council@ct.gov. The next Evidentiary Hearing of the State Siting Council will be on Oct. 17th at 2:00 p.m. You can find details about the hearing and how to join via Zoom, here.
I will continue to provide updates as they become available.

The UI project website can be found here. Questions can be submitted to Info@UIRailRoadTLineUpgrades.com
 
FAIRFIELD LUDLOWE HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS RECOGNIZED
This week I enjoyed meeting with two Fairfield Ludlowe High School students who were recognized for their achievements. 
FLHS Student Ella Casano was honored for her recent national rowing competition win. Coxswain Ella won the u19 World Championships and set a world record in the Coxed Four. Ella has an autoimmune condition which limited the sports she could participate in and as a result she turned to rowing. Additionally, after spending a lot of time at the hospital getting IV treatments, she invented an IV bag cover called the Medi Teddy, a friendly plush bear that covers the IV pouch.

This summer, FLHS student Connor Cowan was appointed to the State Board of Education as a non-voting student member. He is one of two students chosen to serve until the sixth Wednesday of the next regular session of the General Assembly. Connor is very excited to take on this role and looks forward to advocating on behalf of Connecticut students and educational professionals.
 
NATIONAL HISPANIC HERITAGE MONTH
During National Hispanic Heritage Month, Fairfield comes together to pay tribute to the rich and diverse cultures of Hispanic and Latino Americans. This month-long celebration recognizes the invaluable contributions of individuals with roots in various Latin American countries. In Fairfield, we embrace the spirit of unity and appreciation, celebrating the unique traditions, histories, and accomplishments that have shaped our community, making it a more culturally enriched and inclusive place for all.
 
FIRE PREVENTION MONTH
Fire Prevention Month, observed throughout October, serves as a crucial reminder of the importance of fire safety. During this month, communities, schools, and organizations raise awareness about fire hazards, promote fire drills, and educate individuals on how to prevent and respond to fires. Please take some time to check your smoke alarms, prepare fire escape plans, and discuss fire prevention measures with your family.
 
Driving is primarily a thinking task.  You have a lot of things to think about when you’re behind the wheel:  road conditions, observing traffic laws, signs, signals, road markings, following directions, being aware of cars around you, checking your mirrors, and the list goes on.  As the chart below indicates, SPEED makes a BIG difference and can increase risk of death as much as 90%. Please SLOW DOWN.

The FBPC recommends that DRIVERS be aware of the following:
  1. Look out for pedestrians at all times.
  2. Yield to pedestrians in crosswalks as well as stopping far back from the crosswalks.
  3. When backing up, be aware of your surroundings and watch for pedestrians.
  4. When opening your car door, be alert for walkers and bicyclists.
Lastly, but perhaps most importantly, is the issue of DISTRACTED DRIVING. At least eight people a day are killed in distracted driving crashes per (National Safety Council)
  • Stay off your cellphone, but if you must, use the HAND FREE option.
  • NEVER text while driving.
  • NEVER drive while impaired.
Parents: please share these thoughts on awareness with any new drivers in your family.
 
 
FAIRFIELD'S FIRST RESPONDERS
The Fairfield Police Department and I kicked off the Pink Pledge in front of the newly wrapped "Pink" Police SUV.
 
 
DOMESTIC VIOLENCE AWARENESS CLASSES
Join FitClubBJJ and Fairfield PD every Wednesday night for Domestic Violence Awareness Month. 

FitClubBJJ, 1496 Post Road, will continues its month-long event series on Wednesday, October 18th from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. with guest speaker Dana Buckmir, author of “Everything Will Be Okay”, a memoir and cautionary tale of online dating and domestic abuse.  After hearing Dana’s story, there will be a demonstration on ways to defend yourself by Professor Joe Oppedisano and Fairfield Police Detective Beth Leetch.  
 
SELF-DEFENSE CLASS
On Wednesday, October 25th, Professor Joe Oppedisano and Detective Beth Leetch from will teach their popular Women’s Self-Defense class, 6:45 pm to 8:00 pm at FitClubBjj, 1496 Post Rd, with all proceeds going to the Center for Family Justice.  Come and learn some moves and strategies while donating to an important advocate in the fight against domestic violence during Domestic Violence Awareness Month.
 
To register for these events, reach out to sarahfitclub@gmail.com.  All events require a $30.00 donation to register. 
 
FIRE CHIEF MCCARTHY RECOGNIZED
The Connecticut Fire Department Instructors Association recently honored Fire Chief Denis McCarthy for his work with the Connecticut Fire Service 2025 Summit at its Annual Awards Dinner.  Congratulations Chief.
 
OFFICER OF THE QUARTER
Officer Daniel Chase has been unanimously selected as Officer of the Quarter by all the Lieutenants and Sergeants of the Patrol Division.  From the start of the year to present, Officer Chase has initiated 54 motor vehicle traffic stops, issued 13 infractions and summons. Officer Chase has made a strong effort to try and combat the statewide stolen vehicle problem and is often found attempting to stop active stolen cars before having to disengage due to statewide polices.
 
FAIRFIELD FIRE DEPARTMENT AWARDS CEREMONY
The Fire Department held their Awards Ceremony at the Fire Training School on Thursday, October 12th.  Congratulations to the recipients for their outstanding service to Fairfield.  To view the full list of honorees, click here.
 
SENIOR CITIZEN SMOKE DETECTOR PROGRAM
The Fairfield Fire Department has conducted this program for Senior Citizens for decades.  Firefighters will come to your house to change your smoke detector batteries on selected dates in October. Seniors wishing to participate should call the Fire Marshal's Office at 203-254-4720.  
 
COMMUNITY EVENTS
 
TOUCH A TRUCK EVENT
A big thank you to the Fairfield Police and DPW for providing a fun Touch a Truck Day to our community.
 
START WITH HELLO
Last Sunday, I joined Dr. Oliver Kim, and event organizer Colette D’Alessandro and students from Fairfield University to kick off "Start with Hello Week" that brings attention to the growing epidemic of social isolation and empowers young people to create a culture of inclusion and connectedness within their school, youth organization, and community through the Sandy Hook Promise.  I was happy to be invited to help kick off the event and talk about my work as state representative working on Gun Safety, Mental Health and School Security legislation in the aftermath of the Sandy Hook Tragedy.
 
I appreciated being given the opportunity to share what we learned in the legislature about how important it is to have an organization like Sandy Hook Promise that works to address mental health and social emotional welfare that are critically important. I applaud Fairfield University and the students for making this important work a priority.
 
FAIRFIELD FARMER'S MARKET
The Fairfield Farmer's Market will be winding down this month.  Be sure to stop by the Sherman Green on Sundays between 10:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. before the season ends on October 29th.
 
NO ONE HAS TIME FOR THE FLU, GET A FLU SHOT
The Fairfield Health Department is urging all residents to receive the flu vaccine. The single best way to protect yourself and those around you from the flu is to get vaccinated. It is recommended that everyone over the age of 6 months receive the flu vaccine every year. It takes about 2 weeks after the receiving the flu vaccine for the body to develop protection against the flu virus so now is a good time to get vaccinated. 
 
The Health Department will host four flu clinics this season for adults and children aged 3 and older. The next clinic will be held on:
  • Wednesday, October 18th from 3pm – 8pm
ALL clinics will take place at the Public Health Nursing Office located at 100 Mona Terrace, Fairfield in the white portable BEHIND the Senior Center. Walk-ins only, no appointments. Click here for more information
 
SPOTTED LANTERN FLY
Many residents have been writing in or posting on social media about spotted lantern fly's. Many have asked what can be done. CT DEEP recommends the following:
What to Do If You Find SLF

First, and most important – if you think you have observed spotted lanternflies, do not attempt to move any wood or other potentially infested material from the site. Instead, you should: 

  • Report potential sightings of this invasive pest. If you suspect you have found a SLF, snap a picture of it and fill out this SLF Reporting Form.
  • Kill any spotted lanternflies you find immediately.

  • Follow these tips for dealing with spotted lanternflies.

  • Please check your vehicles for stowaways! Inspect your vehicles, trailers, and other items for SLF adults and egg masses when travelling through areas with known or suspected SLF populations. These insects are known to hitch a ride on vehicles and even clothing.

Our Conservation Director, Tim Bishop, recently shared this very helpful video from Pittsburgh that provides more information. Click here to watch it. 
 
NEW BUSINESSES
photo credit: Fairfield Hamlet Hub
APSARA NAILS
Welcome to Apsara Nails, the newest salon in Fairfield's beauty scene, located at 790 Villa Avenue.  Apsara provides pampering and impeccable nail artistry, with talented technicians dedicated to ensuring you leave feeling truly indulged. 
 
photo credit: Fairfield Hamlet Hub
SASCO HILL SURGERY CENTER
Sasco Hill Surgery Center, a nationally accredited ambulatory surgical facility, recently opened in Southport at 2600 Post Road. With state-of-the-art surgical equipment and a team of board-certified surgeons, anesthesiologists, and nurses, the center is designed to achieve the best possible outcomes in an outpatient environment. 
 
UPCOMING EVENTS
HOCUS POCUS DRIVE-IN MOVIE | OCTOBER 13
Join Parks & Recreation on October 13 at Lake Mohegan for drive in movie night. Click here
 
MATTRESS RECYCLING EVENT| OCTOBER 14
If you have an old mattress or box spring you need to discard, you can give it a new life by taking advantage of an upcoming SFTF mattress recycling event. Mattresses and box springs can be dropped off on Saturday, October 14th from 8:30 am to 12:30 pm at Veterans Park, 909 Reef Road. Any mattress, no matter when it was purchased, qualifies, if it is not damaged, heavily soiled or posing other health or safety risks, e.g., bed bugs.  Learn more about mattress recycling benefits for the environment.   
 
FAIRFIELD FATHER'S FORUM | Oct 14 | Nov 18 | Dec 16
Led by Vince Benevento, LPC, Director and Founder of Causeway Collaborative, this forum is a safe space for fathers to share experiences and support each other through the journey of fatherhood. Whether you're a new dad, navigating the teen years, or embracing grandfatherhood, this is your community. 

Presented by the Fairfield Collaborative for Youth Mental Health, in partnership with the Fairfield Police Department, Fairfield Public Schools, and Fairfield Social and Human Services. Click here for more information. 
 
SHRED IT!
The Fairfield Police Cadet Shred Day Fundraiser will be held on October 14th at Fairfield Police Headquarters, 100 Reef Road. A shred truck will be shredding documents on site from 9:00 a.m. until the truck is full (which is usually around 11:30 a.m.). The cost is $10.00 per document box/file box.
 
The Fairfield Police Cadet Program is a non-profit 501(c) and has been an integral part of Fairfield and its Police Department for over 40 years, providing valuable community service hours to our youth members and enhancing public safety services within the town. Our dedicated cadets are driven by a commitment to public service and a desire to contribute positively to the Fairfield. For more information about Shred Day people can go to Fairfieldcadets.com or call 203-254-4830.
 
PUSH AGAINST CANCER | OCTOBER 15
I was happy to join Andy Berman to help promote 14th Annual Push Against Cancer Event to benefit the Hole in the Wall Gang, which will take place on Sunday, October 15th at 9:00am at Staples High School, Westport. This 40-minute push-up marathon is a high energy family friendly event.  You can build a team or join as an individual, and every dollar you raise helps bring “a different kind of healing” in different ways to campers and their families.  Click here for more information. 
 
CHAMBER OF COMMERCE DOGWOOD GOLF CLASSIC | OCTOBER 16
The Chamber of Commerce will be hosting its 3rd Annual Dogwood Golf Classic on October 16. Register online at FairfieldCTChamber.com or call the office at 203-255-1011. For more information, please click here. 
 
FIRST RESPONDERS' APPRECIATION NIGHT | OCTOBER 16
Please join the Fairfield Warde High School Girls Volleyball team in honoring first responders at their game against Staples High School on Monday, October 16th, 6:00 p.m., Fairfield Warde High School, 755 Melville Avenue.  Free pizza to all First Responders in attendance.  Donations to the Tunnels to Towers Foundation will be collected at the door.
 
INAUGURAL SCARECROW FEST | OCTOBER 22-30
Join the merchants of Greenfield Hill Commons and participate in their inaugural Scarecrow Contest! The contest is a part of the merchants annual fundraiser for the Norma Pfriem Breast Center in Fairfield. Interested in participating? Register at Lexington Home & Gardens, located at 75 Hillside Road in Fairfield, Tuesday through Friday 10AM – 5:30PM or Saturday 10AM – 4PM. You can also register via email by contacting Ed at GHCmerchants@gmail.com. Included in the $25.00 participation fee is a scarecrow kit (one 4ft bamboo pole, one 6ft bamboo pole and one burlap sack for the head) and a donation to the Norma Pfriem Breast Center.
 
ENCHANTED CASTLE | OCTOBER 25
The Enchanted Castle presented by the Junior League of Eastern Fairfield County will return to the Burr Mansion on Wednesday, October 25th and run through Sunday, October 29th. This is a family friendly event where kids and parents walk through the entire Burr Mansion together. Each room is decorated with a different “Fairy Tale” theme and kids will enjoy the live characters who will tell their stories. The Castle is designed for children 2-10 years of age but will be sure to excite the whole family. Tickets are available here.
 
FAIRFIELD RESTAURANT WEEK | OCTOBER 23 - NOVEMBER 5
Fairfield Restaurant Week begins on October 23rd and runs through November 5th. For more information and to check out participating restaurants, visit www.experiencefairfieldct.org/eats or follow @ExperienceFairfield and @FairfieldRestaurantWeek on Facebook and Instagram!
 
FAIRFIELD STANDS WITH UKRAINE EVENT | OCTOBER 28 
The Fairfield-Kostiantynivka Steering Committee & Ukraine Aid International invite you to join them as we come together to show solidarity and support for Kostiantynivka, Fairfield's sister city in the Ukraine at a powerful Fairfield Stands with Ukraine Event which will take place on Friday, October 27th from 6:00 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the Sacred Heart Community Theatre, 1420 Post Road, Fairfield.  To purchase tickets, click here
 
HOMEBUYER INFORMATION SESSION | OCTOBER 28 
Habitat for Humanity of Coastal Fairfield County will be holding a Homebuyer Information Session on Saturday, October 28th, from 1:00 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. at the Fairfield Public Library, 1080 Post Road. You can learn about the home buying process, how to get qualified, sweat equity hours, the application process, and more. You can find more information and register for the event at http://habitatcfc.org/events
 
ROCK FOR HOPE: A BENEFIT FOR OPERATION HOPE | NOVEMBER 9
Join Band Central and Operation Hope for Rock for Hope: A Benefit for Operation Hope. Band Central brings you rock legend Joe Bouchard, former member of Blue Oyster Cult for a concert on Thursday, November 9 at 7:30pm (doors open and pre-party at 6:30pm) at StageOne at FTC. Tickets $45. Come out to support Operation Hope and its programs to eliminate hunger and homelessness in the community. Each ticket will include one drink ticket for beer/wine. There will be a cash bar and a paddle raise. Help celebrate the important work of Operation Hope.  Purchase tickets here
 

Have a nice weekend.

Sincerely,

Brenda L. Kupchick
Fairfield First Selectwoman

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LIBRARIES/FAIRFIELD MUSEUM/BIGELOW CENTER
FAIRFIELD PUBLIC LIBRARIES 
Main Library/1080 Old Post Rd
Branch Library/1147 Fairfield Woods Rd

The Friends of Fairfield Public Library invite you to attend their latest Soundwaves concert, “Viva Violin!,” on Sunday, October 22, at 2pm at Main Library.  Violinist Katie Lansdale and actor Caroline Kinsolving will present a unique blend of poetry and Baroque music, featuring pieces by composer Edward Elgar. Refreshments will be served after the concert for a chance to meet the artists.

Main Library has completed a project to update several areas of the building in phases over the past three years.  New furniture now graces the upper and lower stacks, New Book area, computer room, study rooms, open areas of the Main Floor, and most recently, the Periodicals Room.  All furniture was purchased with funds provided by the Library Board of Trustees, and no tax dollars were used.  This is the first time furniture has been replaced since the renovation of Main Library in 2004.

Please view our online calendar of events on our website to see the offerings and reserve your spot: fairfieldpubliclibrary.org.

The library offers 24/7 access to its digital collection of books, music, magazines, movies and databases. Information services are available in person, by phone 203-256-3160, by email eref@fplct.org, and via text (text askfplct to 833-232-4100). 
 
PEQUOT LIBRARY 
720 Pequot Avenue/Southport

Pequot Library offers an exciting lineup of programs for all ages, all of which are free and open to the public. 

Mark your calendar for an evening of vintage horror films on Oct. 27 starting at 3:00 p.m. The library will screen Dracula (1958) from 3:00 to 4:30 p.m. and The Rocky Horror Picture Show from 5:00 to 6:40 p.m. The following day, Oct. 28 at 2:00 p.m., the Connecticut Accordion Association Orchestra will give a concert under the direction of Peter Peluso. They’ll perform an array of musical pieces from classical to light classics and jazz to Broadway and movie themes. Tickets cost $10 per person at the door; this program is free for kids ages 12 and under. Proceeds support the Connecticut Accordion Association. Also, on Oct. 28 starting at 6:00 p.m., children are invited to join a Halloween Magic Show and Jack-O-Lantern Contest. Bring an already-carved pumpkin to be entered into the contest and then enjoy the antics of Ed Popielarczyk and his Halloween Magic Show. Please click here for more information. 
 
 
FAIRFIELD MUSEUM AND HISTORY CENTER 
370 Beach Road
The Fairfield Museum and History Center believes in the power of history, art, and humanities to inspire the imagination, stimulate thought, and transform society.  View upcoming events here.
 
BIGELOW CENTER & SOCIAL SERVICES
100 Mona Terrace
Please click here to open the October 2023 Bigelow Center for Senior Activities newsletter. 
 
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES FROM PAST UPDATES
ASSISTANCE PROGRAMS FOR HEATING AND UTILITY BILLS
As the seasons change, we want to inform our community about two valuable assistance programs that can provide support with heating and utility bills. 

1. Connecticut Energy Assistance Program (CEAP):  CEAP offers aid for primary heating costs. This program ensures that you can keep your home warm during the colder months.
2. Operation Fuel: Commencing in August, Operation Fuel offers help with utility bills, primarily focusing on past-due balances for electric bills. Please remember that eligible applicants for Operation Fuel can only receive benefits once per calendar year. For example, if you received benefits in April 2023, you will be eligible to apply again in April 2024.

Our dedicated Fairfield Social Services staff is now scheduling appointments. To determine if you qualify for either program and to set up an appointment, please contact them at 203-256-3170.
 

LAKE MOHEGAN CASCADES 
In an effort to mitigate vandalism to Town property, inappropriate behavior, and other violations of Open Space Regulations, the Conservation Department has teamed up with the Fairfield Police Department to patrol the Lake Mohegan open space, especially the Cascades area.  The Police Department will be enforcing the Open Space Regulations listed here and issuing tickets or towing vehicles, as appropriate. Please have fun outdoors and respect our natural resources for all to enjoy.

 
FAIRFIELD FIRE DEPARTMENT/POWER OUTAGE NOTIFICATIONS
You can receive real time updates on power outages specific to your home or business by registering to receive text messages regarding OutagesRestoration Times and Power Restored Confirmation.   It is easy to register online or by text. Click here for more information from the Fire Department. 
 
FRAUD ALERT 
As you may have read recently in the news about an alleged fraud situation in our Town. The Town of Fairfield Fraud Alert database helps notify property owners of new transactions regarding their property.  With Fraud Alert you can sign up to receive alerts whenever a document such as a mortgage is recorded under your name. You can enroll in the program here. 

Since its inception in 2021, over 1100 names have been registered in the system. To verify your enrollment, log in to system using the email address you used when you initially enrolled.   For more information, please contact the Town Clerk's Office, townclerk@fairfieldct.org.
 
OPERATION HOPE | FOOD PANTRY 
Operation Hope’s Food Pantry is open to all Fairfield residents on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM and Thursday from 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM.
 
Items can be dropped off at 636 Old Post Road between 9:15 AM  5:00 PM, Monday through Friday. 
 
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