Veterans Day ceremony

American Legion Post 141 and VFW Post 10059 will be partnering with Trumbull’s educational community to celebrate Veterans Day. A ceremony will take place on Friday, Nov. 11, at 8:30 a.m., in the Trumbull High School auditorium, 72 Strobel Road. Veterans of Trumbull and surrounding towns are encouraged to attend and bring guests. American Legion Commander George Areson, 203-913-1276.

Coat drive

Bankwell in Fairfield is collecting new or gently used coats in all sizes for men, women and children for the holidays for the Bridgeport Rescue Mission now through Dec. 30. Items may be brought to either of the bank’s two Fairfield branches, which are located at One Sasco Hill Road or 2220 Black Rock Turnpike. The Bridgeport Rescue Mission supports hungry, homeless and disadvantaged people throughout Fairfield County 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

Wash-A-Dog fund-raiser

Trumbull Agriscience Center’s Wash-A-Dog will be held at Trumbull High School’s Agriscience and Biotechnology Center, 536 Daniels Farm Road on Saturday, Nov. 12, from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Agriscience students are sponsoring this fund-raising event. Fee is $10 per dog; 203-452-4200.

Holiday letters

Trumbull Community Women is offering personalized letters from either Santa or Frosty the Snowman this holiday season. There will be a variety of letters used so that each child can receive a different one, and for those who do not celebrate Christmas, they are offering a letter from Frosty the Snowman. Each letter is written on special holiday paper and is available for a $5 donation. The letters will be postmarked from the North Pole, NY, if received by Friday, Dec. 2. All other requests must be received by Wednesday, Dec. 14, to ensure delivery. The application for the letters is available at both libraries and on the group’s website at trumbullcommunitywomen.org.

Christmas fair

St. John’s Orthodox Church, 364 Mill Hill Avenue, Bridgeport, will host its annual Christmas Fair Saturday, Nov. 12, 10-4, in the church auditorium. Santa’s Restaurant is noted for its traditional ethnic foods featuring perohi, pagach, noodles with cabbage, kolbasi, stuffed cabbage, potato pancakes and chicken soup. Frozen takeout available. Booths will feature unique specialty gift baskets, theme trees, a sweet shoppe with homemade candies, a country store with homemade baked goods, nut, poppy and prune rolls, jams, jellies and pickles, religious items, a children’s corner with gingerbread houses. Admission is free; 203-385-1020.

Trumbull High 30th reunion

Trumbull High School, class of 1986, 30th reunion Saturday, Nov. 12, 7-11 p.m., Oronoque Country Club, 385 Oronoque Lane, Stratford. Food, dancing, open bar. For information on how to get tickets and hotel accommodations, visit thsclassof1986reunion.myevent.com. For inquiries about the event, contact ths1986classreunion@gmail.com.

Christmas in Newport trip

The Greater Bridgeport Retired Teachers Association (GBRTA) offers a trip, “Christmas in Newport” on Dec. 15. Bus departs for Newport to tour The Breakers, The Elms or Marble House. Lunch at Old Grist Mill Tavern in Seekonk, Mass., features baked stuffed chicken, baked scrod or prime rib. Tour includes LaSalette Shrine in Attleboro, Mass., with a Christmas concert, a mass, a display of holiday lights and a religious gift store. Transportation, admission to one mansion, lunch, shrine visit and driver’s gratuity are included for $109 per person. Payment due by Nov. 15. For more information, visit gbrta.org. For reservations, contact Lois Hoyt, 203-261-6693. Mail checks to Angela McKelvey at 273A Agawam Lane, Stratford, CT 06614.

Garden club meeting

The Greater Bridgeport Men’s Garden Club will meet Wednesday, Nov. 16, at 7 p.m., at the Sterling House, 2283 Main Street, Stratford. Members normally meet on the third Wednesday of each month to discuss various gardening issues, share in plant swaps, speaker presentations. The Club welcomes beginner gardeners and anyone with an interest in gardening, plants, landscaping. Call Joe, 203-339-2701 or Art, 203-261-9771.

Cat adoption event

Stratford Cat Project hosts a cat and kitten adoption and food drive Saturday, Nov. 19, 11-3, Sterling House Community Center, 2283 Main Street. SCP desperately needs food/supply donations of Friskies and Fancy Feast Cat Food, Friskies Surfin Turfin Dry Food, Purina One Dry Food; paper towels, Lysol/bleach wipes, scoopable litter, latex gloves, copy paper and gift cards to H3 Pet Supply, WalMart, Staples or Stop and Stop; scp4cats@yahoo.com.

Bereavement Ministry

The Bereavement Ministry at St. Mark’s Church, 500 Wigwam Lane, started on Sept. 13, and meets for 10 consecutive Tuesdays from 9:45-11:15 a.m. The program is based on a structured format. The New Day Journal, whose primary focus is on medication, prayer, bible readings and sharing of feelings. All are welcome. Information: Susan Monk, 203-257-6999.

Men’s Night Out

The Holy Name Men’s Society of Holy Name Of Jesus Church will sponsor Men’s Night Out on Saturday, Nov.19, from 6:30-11 p.m., in the parish hall at 50 College Street, Stratford, which is behind the church at 1950 Barnum Avenue, (Rt 1), Stratford. Includes food, cards, and more; bring friends. Cost is $15, but when you buy two tickets you get one free. Information: Larry Wells, 203-375-2836 or email Lawman56@optonline.net.

Christmas craft fair

St. James Christmas Craft Fair is Saturday, Nov. 19, 10-4, St. James School, Main Street.  Professional artisans, children’s activities, pictures with Santa, raffles, baked goods and lunch items. Jingle Jog kicks off at 9 a.m. Santa arrives via fire truck at 10 a.m. PIctures With Santa 10-noon; stjamesstratford.org.

Sikorsky Retirees Friendship Club trips

Nov. 27-29, Atlantic City, Tropicana Resort with Christmas Show, includes two nights Tropicana Casino Resort, two dinner buffet and $30 slot bonus, $194 double, $294 single; Feb. 15-17, 2017 Atlantic City Getaway at Resorts in Atlantic City, includes two shows: Resorts Entertainers, and America’s Got Talent finalist Paul Salos with his Frank Sinatra tribute, $60 slot bonus and $60 food voucher, $196 double, $296 single, $186 triple. For trip reservations and information call Ruth Pavluvcik, 203-783-1173.

Cat Project meeting

The Stratford Cat Project will hold its monthly meeting Tuesday, Nov. 29, 7 p.m., Stratford Library, 2203 Main Street; scp4cats@yahoo.com.

Cocktails for a Cause

The 8th annual Gingerbread Houses and Cocktails for a Cause will be held at the Rolling Hills Country Club Wilton on Thursday Dec. 1, from 7-10 p.m., and at Hyatt Regency Greenwich on Tuesday, Dec. 6, from 7-10 p.m. Each guest will receive a fully-assembled gingerbread house to decorate; wine and a light dinner buffet included. Early reservations are recommended. Tickets for the event are $150, with all proceeds going to The Center for Sexual Assault Crisis Counseling and Education. To register an individual or table of friends, visit thecenter-ct.org or call 203-348-9346. Sponsorship and underwriting opportunities are still available for this event.

Holiday boutique

Congregation B’nai Torah, Trumbull will hold a holiday boutique Sunday, Dec. 11. Vendor applications are being accepted for this non-denominational event. Interested vendors should contact the B’nai Torah office at 203-268-6940 or office@bnaitorahct.org for an application or more information.

Transportation for seniors

The Trumbull Senior Center provides medical transportation within the following towns/cities: Trumbull, Bridgeport, Stratford, Monroe, and Shelton. Rides are for those traveling to and from the senior center, medical appointments, legal appointments and nutrition programs. Contact Ashley Grace at 203-452-5137 to schedule a ride.

Notre Dame High 50th reunion

Notre Dame High School (boys and girls) Class of 1966 is planning a 50th reunion for spring 2017. If interested in working on the Class of 1966 Reunion committee or to receive more information, contact the Notre Dame Alumni Office at tmarzik@notredame.org or 203-372-6521, ext. 242.

Harding High 65th reunion

The Warren Harding High School class of 1952 is holding its 65th reunion on Saturday, Sept. 23, 2017, from 1-5 p.m., at the Blue Goose Restaurant, Ferry Boulevard, Stratford.

Tickets are $30. Checks may be made out to Warren Harding High School Class of 1952. Check and reservation should be mailed to Mike Mocciae, 15A Heritage Crest, Southbury, CT. 06488. Information: 203-264-6838.

Toastmasters

The Park City Toastmasters Club meets every Tuesday, 7:30-9 p.m., at Lord Chamberlain Nursing Facility, 7003 Main St., Stratford. The club helps people become effective communicators, building on presentation and impromptu speaking skills; parkcitytoastmasters.com; John, 203-918-3092; Anna, 203-258-5627.

Compassionate Friends meeting

The Bridgeport Chapter of The Compassionate Friends holds its meetings at the Sterling House Community Center, 2283 Main Street, every second Tuesday of each month, 6:45-8:45 p.m. Bring a canned good or nonperishable food item to the meeting for Sterling House’s Food Pantry. The Bridgeport Chapter of The Compassionate Friends is a non-denominational support group for parents, grandparents, and adult siblings who are grieving the death of their child or grandchild, tcfbridgeport.org, 475-882-9695.

Caregiver support

Sunset Shores Adult Day Health Centers, 720 Barnum Avenue Cutoff, Stratford hosts a caregiver support group the second Monday of the month, 5-6 p.m. Next: Oct. 10. Groups help to provide emotional, educational and social support for caregivers. RSVP to Mary Pruzinsky, 203-380-1228.

Helicopter museum

National Helicopter Museum at the Eastbound RR Station is open Wednesday through Sunday, from 1-4 p.m. Emphasizes the birthplace of America’s Helicopter Industry via photos, audio visuals displays, plus a simulator. Free admission and parking; 203-375-8857.

Retirees Friendship Club

The Sikorsky Retirees Friendship Club meets the second Friday of each month, at 1 p.m., at St. Joseph’s National Catholic Church, 1300 Stratford Road, Lordship. Coffee and pastry at every meeting, and throughout the year, lunches, a picnic and a Christmas party. All Sikorsky retirees and spouses welcome. Information: Alton R. Donofrio, 203-380-1940.

Bingo

Loyal Order of the Moose Lodge 289 has bingo every Sunday, at 1 p.m., at 44 Dodge Avenue, Stratford. Admission: $12; 203-581-6948.

Stratford Knights of Columbus St. James Council #2370 holds weekly bingo Mondays at their council hall, 2252 Main St., across from Sterling House. Doors open at 5 p.m., first game at 6:45. Progressive jackpot. Snacks and beverages available. No smoking.

Wednesdays, 6:30 p.m., St. John’s Orthodox Church, 600 Silver Lane. Free beverages and snacks. Information: Carole, 203-375-2621; or on Wednesday evenings, call 203-386-8889.

Diabetes prevention

Free diabetes prevention program Thursdays, 6 p.m., Stratford Health and Wellness Center Francis R. Scifo, MD Community Education Room, 3272 Main Street. To register, call 203-375-5844, ext. 32.

Caregiver’s support

Sunset Shores Adult Day Health Centers hosts a Caregiver’s Support Group the second Monday of the month, 5-6 p.m., 720 Barnum Avenue Cutoff, Stratford. The group helps to provide emotional, educational and social supports for caregivers. It can also assist in developing methods and skills to solve problems associated with caregiving responsibilities. Open to the public. RSVP to Mary Pruzinsky, 203-380-1228.

Looking to the skies

The Boothe Memorial Astronomical Society meets for observing the first and third Friday of each month, and at posted times for special events. Details may be found at bmas.org or the group’s Facebook page. The group may be contacted by email at info@bmas.org or by calling Mark Holden at The Holden Agency, 203-261-2521.

Art League seeks members

Monthly meetings in Shelton feature local artists and demonstrations. For more information email Diane Napolitano at napolitanj@comcast.net.

Divorced Catholics support

“Journey of Hope” program for separated and divorced catholics meets every Saturday, from 10-11 a.m., Holy Family Parish Office, 700 Old Stratfield Road, Fairfield, 203-336-1835.

Al-Anon meetings

Al-Anon is a resource for family members and friends affected by alcoholism. More than 14,000 Al-Anon Family Groups meet every week throughout the U.S. and Canada. There are no dues or fees to participate. For information about groups in Connecticut, call 1-888-825-2666. For more information about Al-Anon, visit ct-al-anon.org. A free publication is available at Al-AnonFamilyGroups.org.

Nutmeg Stamp Club

The Nutmeg Stamp Club meets the second and fourth Wednesdays of each month at 7 p.m. in the all purpose room at Atria Stratford, 6911 Main Street. A small auction and presentation usually occur. Refreshments are served. Dues of $10 per year will be collected for anyone who would like to become a member. Ed Corfini. 203-384-8197.

The post SPOTLIGHT: Events in Stratford and surrounding area appeared first on Stratford Star.

Emmanuel D’Agostino comes across the finish line in first place at the Victoria Soto 5K held in Lordship — Andy Hutchison photo.

Runners and walkers varying in age and abilities came together on Saturday in Lordship to run and honor Victoria Soto at the fourth annual Vicki Soto 5K.

The 5K run/walk event is the biggest event of the year for the Vicki Soto Memorial Fund, established in honor of Victoria Soto, a Stratford native and former teacher at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown. Soto was one of 26 people who died in a shooting massacre at Sandy Hook on Dec. 14, 2012.

Jillian Soto, Victoria Soto’s sister, cheers on runners during Saturday’s Vicki Soto 5K. — Andy Hutchison photo

More than 3,500 people signed up to run and walk on a pleasant fall morning, said Jillian Soto, Victoria’s sister. In addition, 300 children signed up for the kids’ Fun Run.

“We’ve been planning this for months. To see everybody out here is an amazing thing,” Jillian Soto said, adding that she is touched by the support provided by families who did not even know her sister.

“It’s an amazing tribute to love, and to education, and to a beautiful heart,” said Mary Perry, a handler with Lutheran Church Charities’ K-9 Comfort Dog Ministries.

Emmanuel D’Agostino, a member of the Harvard Running Club, won the 5K in a time of 16:01. D’Agostino, 19, said club president Alina Acosta arranged to have members of the running club participate.

“She just wanted us to come down and support the cause and get in a good 5K while we were at it,” D’Agostino said.

Stratford residents had strong showings. Jacob Roettger, 17, and William Gill, 45, finished fifth and sixth, respectively. Thomas Cushing, Alex Ghajar and Jesse Fabrizio finished ninth, tenth and eleventh.

Lauren O’Neil, 14, of Southport, was the top female finisher and was 21st overall.

“It’s a really good event. It’s a lot of fun,” said Larry Ciccarelli, a Stratford native, who ran the 5K along with his wife, Marli, and their children, Emma and Larry, who rode in a stroller. “We look forward to doing it again next year.”

For more information, including race results, visit vickisoto5k.com.

The post Runners honor slain teacher In Vicki Soto 5K appeared first on Stratford Star.

Stratford Volunteer EMS Association is sponsoring an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) course Tuesdays and Thursdays, from 6-10 p.m., Jan. 10-May 25, at Stratford EMS Headquarters, 2712 Main Street. The course includes CPR, bleeding control, patient assessment, safe lifting and moving and more.

Successful completion of this course will allow the student to test for state and national certification. Upon certification, EMT’s staff ambulances, work in hospitals and know what to do in the event of a medical emergency.

The cost for the course is $900 and includes all textbooks with interactive online access, stethoscope, blood pressure cuff, pen light and scissors.

For an application or more information, call 203-293-7283 or visit FirstResponderStudents.com.

The post Stratford Volunteer EMS offers EMT course appeared first on Stratford Star.

Three Trumbull High School graduates, Morgan Griffin, Christine Cornell, and Alicia Preusch, are performing a selection of classic songs and contemporary dance pieces at the Fairfield Theatre Company, 70 Sanford St., Fairfield, on Wednesday, Nov. 16, at 7 p.m., to benefit the Staples High School Tuition Grant’s Patricia Baxter Pelton Scholarship. The evening will include additional performers from Connecticut and New York.

Cash bar 6:30 p.m., general admission $50. For tickets and more information, visit fairfieldtheatre.org.

The post An Evening of Song & Dance at Fairfield Theatre Company appeared first on Stratford Star.

Once again this holiday season, Trumbull Community Women is offering personalized letters from either Santa or Frosty the Snowman. There will be a variety of letters used so that each child can receive a different one, and for those who do not celebrate Christmas, they are offering a letter from Frosty the Snowman.

Each letter is written on special holiday paper and is available for a $5 donation.

The letters will be postmarked from the North Pole, NY, if received by Friday, Dec. 2. All other requests must be received by Wednesday, Dec. 14, to ensure delivery.

The application for the letters is available at both libraries and on the group’s website: trumbullcommunitywomen.org.

The post Trumbull Community Women to sponsor Holiday Letters to children appeared first on Stratford Star.

Cat adoption events

Stratford Cat Project hosts a cat and kitten adoption and food drive Saturday, Nov. 19, 11-3, Sterling House Community Center, 2283 Main Street; Saturday, Dec. 17, 11-3, H-3 Pet Supply, 475 Hawley Lane (Big Y Shopping Center). SCP desperately needs food/supply donations of Friskies and Fancy Feast Cat Food, Friskies Surfin Turfin Dry Food, Purina One Dry Food; paper towels, Lysol/bleach wipes, scoopable litter, latex gloves, copy paper and gift cards to H3 Pet Supply, WalMart, Staples or Stop and Stop; scp4cats@yahoo.com.

Cat Project meeting

The Stratford Cat Project will hold its monthly meeting Tuesday, Nov. 29, 7 p.m., Stratford Library, 2203 Main Street; scp4cats@yahoo.com.

Holiday open house

The Stratford Cat Project will host a Holiday Open House at the Star Factory, Paradise Green, 3520 Main Street, Stratford, on Sunday, Dec. 4, from noon-3 p.m. The event will include food, beverages, a large array of cat and holiday themed items, and raffle baskets. Meet volunteers, bring photos of your kitties. Bring a donation of canned Friskies or Fancy Feast cat food, scoopable litter, paper towels, black garbage bags, hand sanitizer or gift cards to WalMart or Petco and receive a free raffle ticket. Special guest appearances by kitties of SCP. For more information, email scp4cats@yahoo.com.

The post Stratford Cat Project hosts adoption events, meeting and holiday open house appeared first on Stratford Star.

Stratford Library, 2203 Main Street; Hours: Monday-Thursday, 10-8; Friday-Saturday, 10-5; Sunday, 1-5; 203-385-4162, stratfordlibrary.org.

Library closed

The Library is closed Friday, Nov. 11 in observance of Veterans Day and Thursday, Nov. 24 in observance of Thanksgiving. On Wednesday, Nov. 23, the Library will close at 5 p.m. Also, Dec. 24-26 in observance of Christmas holiday and Dec. 31, 2016-Jan. 2, 2017 for New Year’s holiday.

Library LEGO Club

The Stratford Library LEGO Club for ages 5-12 will meet Saturday, Nov. 12 at 1:30.

Harvest music time

Harvest theme music time for ages 0-5 Saturday, Nov. 12, 10:30 a.m.

Meet-the-Author

The Stratford Library’s celebration of “One Book, One Stratford” concludes with Gaining Ground author Forrest Pritchard live and in person to discuss his memoir and autograph copies Sunday, Nov. 13, 2 p.m., Lovell Room. Light refreshments. Free and open to the public.

Monday Matinees

Free monthly screenings of recent, popular films shown uncut and on widescreen continue Monday, Nov. 14, at noon with Barbershop: The Next Cut, PG-13; Dec. 5, Captain America: Civil War.

Coloring and Coffee

Come and experience the latest trend in relaxation, adult coloring books — Monday, Nov. 14 and Dec. 5 and 12, 6-7:30 p.m.; Friday, Nov. 18 and Dec. 9, 10-11:30 a.m., Lovell Room. The library will provide coloring pages and colored pencils. Coffee served and soothing music will play. Participants welcome to bring their own coloring materials. Free; adults only.

AARP driver safety

The Stratford Library, in conjunction with the American Association of Retired Persons (AARP), will offer AARP Driver Safety Program, a classroom driver retraining program designed to help older persons improve their driving skills on Tuesday, Nov. 15, 1-5 p.m. Course is limited to 24 participants; $15 for AARP members and $20 for non-members. Reservations are required by calling AARP Representative Michael Klein at 203-929-4851.

Digital photo exhibit highlights CT

A Connecticut Retrospective, a digital photo exhibit by New Haven artist Jim Duffy will showcase a series of digital photos highlighting Connecticut locales. Photos on display in November and December. Photos and note cards of Duffy’s work also will be available for purchase. The exhibit is free and open to the public.

Fall storytimes

Children’s department offers storytimes throughout the fall which are free and open to the public. School vacation and holiday schedules may vary. Registration is not required. Toddler Time meets Mondays at 10:30 for walkers ages 1-2. Siblings welcome. Preschool Power Hour meets Tuesdays at 10:30 for ages 3 and up. Various stories, activities and crafts. Baby Lapsit meets on Thursdays at 10:30 for babies and young toddlers. Friday Fun meets Fridays at 10:30 for ages 2-5. Move ‘n Groove meets two Wednesdays a month at 6:30 for ages 2-5.

Read Around Stratford

The Children’s Department encourages children to participate in a school year reading program called Read Around Stratford. Sign-ups continue through March 2017. Read 1,000 pages during the school year and come to a special party just for readers. Other prizes and special activities will be offered throughout the year. Read Around Stratford also takes monthly trips to different Stratford places. Both programs are courtesy of the Carol Pieper Memorial Fund.

Career coach

Free services to low-wage workers and job seekers age 16 and older in Southwestern Connecticut who are unable to get the services at local career centers due to lack of transportation, childcare or employment schedules Mondays, from 10-3, Nov. 21 and Dec. 19.

Creative writing workshop

High school and college students who love to write both prose and poetry are invited to this monthly workshop to share their writings and get feedback Monday, Nov. 21, 6:30-8 p.m., Board Room. Future workshop: Dec. 19. Call the Teen Department 203-385-4167.

Play it Again, Square One

Join actors and artistic personnel from the Square One Theatre Company’s recent production of Christopher Shinn’s political drama, Now or Later, for an informal talk-back session Tuesday, Nov. 29, noon, Board Room. Bring a bag lunch; coffee served. Free and open to the public.

Books Over Coffee

Chris Cleave’s latest novel, Everyone Brave is Forgiven Wednesday, Nov. 30, noon, Lovell Room. Other titles include Britt-Marie Was Here by Fredrik Backman (Dec. 21). Bring a bag lunch; coffee and tea served.

New England Guitar Society holiday concert      

Holiday music is on the menu with the popular guitar group under the direction of James Baird Sunday, Dec. 4, 2 p.m., Lovell Room. Free and open to the public.

Teens: Youth Review Board                              

Monthly group of middle and high school teens who read, review and recommend books and discuss current teen issues meets Wednesday, Dec. 7, 3:30-4:30, Lovell Room. Next session is Dec. 19.

Teen Anime club

Teens are invited to discuss anime and manga, view movies and share their artwork at this monthly club Wednesday, Dec. 14, 4-5 p.m.

Sunday Afternoon Talks

Sunday Afternoon Talks, a monthly series of informative talks featuring prominent local guest speakers, coordinated by Stratford resident and Library volunteer Charles Lautier:

Jan. 8: The Pennsylvania Station in New York City, From Corporate Jewel to Corporate Vandalism by Richard Abramson

Feb. 12: Leaf Cutter Ants by Dr. Barbara Beitch

March 5: Connecticut Town Greens by Professor Eric Lehman

April 2: Shakespeare: Myth and Reality by Dr. Francis DeStefano

May 7: Newspapers in the Civil War by Professor Hamish Lutris

Adults are welcome to experience the latest trend in relaxation, adult coloring books.

The post Stratford Library programs for youth and adults appeared first on Stratford Star.

Michael Ginicola

The Connecticut Association for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance (CTAHPERD) will hold its annual Fall Conference on Nov. 17 and 18 and Awards Banquet on Nov. 17, at the Radisson Hotel in Cromwell.

Among the honorees are Michael Ginicola, physical education teacher at Nichols Elementary School in Stratford who will receive the CTAHPERD Outstanding Program Award for his program, “Using Technology for Flip/Blended Dance Instruction.” Three programs will be honored this year.

Five years ago Ginicola was asked to start a dance program tied to the district rhythms unit and culminate in a performing arts winter concert called Winterfest. The goal was to integrate part of the physical education curriculum into the school art’s performance and create a school culture where dancing was popular and fun for all students.

Technology has helped the students learn the correct dance moves and choreography for their grade level performances. Video recording of the teacher dancing to each song was uploaded to YouTube so that students could practice at home after physical education instruction. The Nichols YouTube Physical Education channel was born. This flipped instruction for dance has continued to grow.

Students in grades 4 to 6 who wish to audition for a special “dance team” to open the Winterfest Show with a special challenging dance, may practice at home with their family through the YouTube channel. The channel has more than 20,00 views and parents take the opportunity to dance with their children at home. The dance unit has become a special community project at Nichols Elementary School.

For more information, contact Connie Kapral, CTAHPERD executive director 860-644-9296 or ckapral@ctahperd.org.

To contact Michael Ginicola, call 203-385-4294 or ginicolam@stratford.k12.org.

The post State association honors Nichols Elementary physical education teacher appeared first on Stratford Star.

A veterans honor guard from Stratford’s Veterans of Foreign War Post 9460 at the town’s Veterans Day ceremony Friday. — Brad Durrell photo

The town honored its military veterans during a Veterans Day ceremony Friday on Academy Hill.

Nick Angelicola, a 94-year-old World War II veteran, said it’s important that young people understand the sacrifices made by others to protect them.

“The freedom they have today didn’t come easy,” said Angelicola, who saw active combat with the Army in the Pacific. He said veterans aren’t asking for anything in return but perhaps a handshake.

The ceremony included short speeches by state Sen. Kevin Kelly, state Rep. Joe Gresko, Stratford Schools Superintendent Janet Robinson and Rose Angelicola, who is Nick’s wife and is active in the ladies auxiliary at Stratford’s Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 9460. The event also included veterans and police honor guards, the playing of the National Anthem and Taps, and opening and closing prayers by the Rev. Michael Gitner of St. Joseph’s Church in Lordship.

A veteran salutes the American flag during the Stratford Veterans Day Ceremony at Academy Hill on Friday. — Brad Durrell photo

More than a dozen local veterans were introduced to the crowd during the ceremony, with some offering comments. “We’re doing something a little different this year,” explained veteran Richard Kennedy, master of ceremonies, who said it’s important for people to know their neighbors who have protected them. Kennedy served in the Navy during the Vietnam era and is Post 9460 commander.

Robert Johnson, one of the veterans introduced, said the military can offer opportunities for young people. “It’s an honor and a privilege to put on the uniform of any of our country’s uniforms,” said Johnson, who fought in Vietnam and is a past Post 9460 commander.

More than a hundred people attended the ceremony on Academy Hill, where the town’s veterans monuments and a brick walkway honoring them are located. The crowd included a large group of students from nearby St. James School, who held handmade signs thanking veterans for their service.

Stratford resident Ed Roberts said he attends the Veterans Day ceremony every year, continuing a tradition started when his father would bring him as a boy to the Bridgeport ceremony every year. Roberts was involved in organizing the commemorative brick walk near the veterans monuments in Stratford.

See next week’s Stratford Star for more on the Veterans Day ceremony.

The post Stratford honors veterans at Academy Hill appeared first on Stratford Star.

This Thanksgiving, law enforcement agencies will ramp up patrolling and be on the lookout for seat belt violations. Stratford Police are cautioning drivers that failing to buckle up is dangerous and against the law and advising drivers to always wear their seat belts.

The Thanksgiving holiday is one of the busiest travel times of the year, and more vehicles on the roadways means potential for more crashes and more fatalities. The United States Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is teaming up with state and local law enforcement and highway safety advocates across the country for a high-visibility mobilization during the busy Thanksgiving travel period to make sure everyone is wearing their seat belts. The Click It or Ticket campaign combines increased awareness with increased patrolling to reach as many Americans as possible with one key message: Wearing a seat belt is the single most effective way to save lives while on the road this Thanksgiving, police said.

During the 2014 Thanksgiving holiday (6 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 26, to 5:59 a.m. on Monday, Dec. 1), 341 passenger vehicle occupants were killed in motor vehicle traffic crashes nationwide. Five in 10 of those killed were wearing seat belts at the time of their fatal crash. Compared to Thanksgiving weekend in 2013, there was a 13% increase in the number of passenger vehicle occupant fatalities in 2014, and a 19% increase in those who were unrestrained when they were killed that weekend. At nighttime, seat belt usage drops. Over the 2014 Thanksgiving holiday weekend, 58 percent of the passenger vehicle occupants killed in nighttime crashes (6 p.m. to 5:59 a.m.) were unbelted, whereas 38% of those killed in daytime crashes were unbelted. During all of 2014, a total of 21,022 passenger vehicle occupants were killed in crashes, and almost half (49%) of them were not wearing their seat belts at the time of the crash. Among passenger vehicle occupant fatalities in 2014, the age groups 13 to 15 and 25 to 34 had the highest percentages (59%) of occupants who were unrestrained at the time of their fatal crash.

According to NHTSA, seat belts saved approximately 12,802 lives nationwide in 2014. If everyone had worn seat belts that year, an additional 2,814 lives could have been saved.

Proper seat belt use reduces the risk of fatal injury to front seat passengers by 45 percent and the risk of moderate to serious injury by 50%. Ejection from a vehicle is one of the most dangerous events that can happen to a person in a crash. In fatal crashes in 2014, almost 80% of the passenger vehicle occupants who were totally ejected from vehicles were killed. Wearing a seat belt is the most effective way to prevent ejections; only one percent of the occupants reported to have been wearing their seat belts were totally ejected in a crash, compared to 30% who were unrestrained.

This Thanksgiving—and every day of the year—remember, Click It or Ticket. For more information, please visit nhtsa.gov.

The post Police announce tough seat belt enforcement over Thanksgiving appeared first on Stratford Star.

Stratford Police investigate a shooting that took place Friday night near the intersection of Bruce Avenue and Hollister Street. — Melvin Mason photo

Update: Stratford Police said the victim is a male in his late teens. He was transported to Bridgeport Hospital where he is in stable condition, according to a detective on scene.

Original story:

Stratford Police are investigating the shooting of a male that occurred on Friday in the area of Bruce Avenue and Hollister Street.

Police are trying to determine the exact location of the shooting. The condition of the victim and the identity of the suspect or suspects is unavailable, according to Capt. Frank Eannotti.

The incident is still under investigation.

Stay with The Stratford Star for more information on this story. 

The post Man shot in Stratford on Friday appeared first on Stratford Star.

The Trumbull Computer Users Group will hold it’s monthly meeting on Thursday, Nov. 17, at 7 p.m., at the Trumbull Library, 33 Quality St.

The main speaker will be Abby Stokes who is a renowned computer expert. Her talk will be internet security. There will be a question and answer session where your questions will be addressed about computers.

The meeting is free and you don’t have to be a member to attend. There will light refreshments served.

The post Trumbull Computer Users Group to hold monthly meeting appeared first on Stratford Star.

Local actor Noel McGovern will perform in an original one-act play, Leap Year, as part of an Evening of One Act Plays by the Clan na Gael Players on Thursday through Sunday, Nov. 17-20, at the Gaelic American Club, 74 Beach Road, Fairfield.

Show dates are Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, at 8 p.m., and Sunday, at 2:30 p. m.

Seating is cabaret style with a cash bar. Tickets are $15 and reservations can be made at cngplays@gmail.com or by calling 203 333-0422.

The post Trumbull actor performs in original one-act play appeared first on Stratford Star.

Stratford Recreation Department, Birdseye Complex, 468 Birdseye Street, 203-385-4052, townofstratford.com/recreation.

Yoga

Gentle beginner yoga classes at the Baldwin Center run Tuesday, Dec. 13-Feb. 21, 6-7:30 p.m.; advanced beginner yoga Thursday, Dec 15-Feb. 23, 6-7:30, $90 for 10 classes. Registration is through Dec. 14.

Flood pool schedule

Flood Pool will closed on Nov. 17 and Nov. 23-27. In December the pool will be closed Dec. 6, 13 and Dec. 23-Jan. 9. New hours will begin Nov. 14 with swims at 6 p.m. Open Swim and Lane Laps are on Tuesday, Thursday and Friday, 6-7 and 7-8 p.m. Adult swims are Tuesdays, Thursday and Friday, 8-9 p.m. and Saturdays, 1-2, 2-3 and 3-4 p.m. Adult fee is $2 and youth 18 and under and seniors 62 and over are $1.

Movie Night at Flood Pool

Free movie night, Ghostbusters Friday, Nov. 18, 6:15 p.m., Flood Pool. For those swimming, the fee is $1 for children under 18 and $2 for adults. Those sitting in the bleachers are free. You can bring floaties and small inner tubes. Lifejackets available.

Franklin afterschool program

The Stratford Recreation Department is accepting registration for the after school program held at Franklin School. The program is from 3:35-4:30. The program is free and is for children in grades 4-6. Grades 5 and 6 will meet on Monday and Wednesday while grades 3 and 4 meet on Tuesday and Thursday. The program does close on school half days, holidays and weather related closings. Register at townofstratford.com/recreation or at the Recreation Office at Short Beach. Program ends on March 30, 2017.

Men Open Gym

Adult Men’s Open Gym at Birdseye Complex runs Tuesday nights from 7:30-9 p.m. The open gyms are for Stratford residents only. Registration and ID are required.

Aquarobics  

Low-impact aerobics class for adults performed in shoulder-depth water Monday and Wednesday, Nov. 28-Feb. 1, 8-8:45 p.m., Flood Pool, $70 for 16 classes. Register through Nov. 27.

Youth art lessons     

A wide range of basic media skills are developed including painting, drawing, and collage during four-week class for children ages 6-9 Wednesdays, 5-5:45 beginning Nov. 30, at the Birdseye Complex. $40 includes supplies. Registration is underway.

Newport mansions

Sunday Dec. 6 tour includes admission to The Breakers, a 10-mile ride along Ocean Drive with a local guide, and leisure time for shopping and lunch at Bowen’s Wharf, $83. Bus will pick up passengers at the Stratford Hotel, 225 Lordship Blvd. in the morning and return later the same day. Registration ends Nov. 22.

Art for preschoolers

Creation Artists for children ages 3-5 runs for four-weeks Wednesdays, 4-4:45, beginning Nov. 30, at the Birdseye Complex. Through painting, drawing, and different art materials children will create artwork and develop motor skills. Fee is $40. Register through Nov. 26.

Radio City and Carmine’s

Bus trip to Radio City Musical Hall Saturday, Dec. 12 includes admission to Radio City Christmas Show and lunch at Carmine’s Restaurant; $169. Bus picks up passengers at the Stratford Hotel, 225 Lordship Blvd., in the morning and returns later the same day. Registration ends Nov. 30 or until bus is filled.

Christmas at Old Sturbridge Village

Dec. 12 tour includes roundtrip transportation, a sleigh ride (weather permitting), gingerbread house contest, and a 4-course Christmas turkey dinner, $129. Bus will pick up passengers at the Stratford Hotel, 225 Lordship Blvd. about noon and return approximately 11 p.m. Registration ends Nov. 30 or until bus is full.

Community Concert Band

The Stratford Recreation and Senior Services Department announces the annual Holiday concert with the Stratford Community Concert Band on Sunday Dec. 4, at 1 p.m., at the Baldwin Center. The concert is free, but a canned good donation for the local food banks is suggested.

End of Fall Walk

The next in the series of Stratford Recreation Department sponsored Nature Walks is Saturday, Dec. 10, from 9-11 a.m., from Short Beach Pavilion #1 to Stratford Point. Meet Connecticut Master Wildlife Conservationists for an informative walk and greet the fall shore birds. The walk is free but registration is required. Registration is through Dec. 8.

Karate

Stratford Recreation Department is offering karate classes for ages 4-adult for residents and nonresidents on Fridays. Superior Karate offers a family discount; Chris Sansonetti, 203-556-8154, superiorkarate.net.

Birthday parties

Stratford Recreation offers a variety of parties. Call for reservations and details, 203-385-4052. Parties held on Saturdays and select Friday evenings. Parties are private* and include staff. Types of parties: Toddler, Obstacle Moonbounce, Bounce House, Gym/Sport, Karate, Flood Pool, Dance, Miniature Train, Zumba, Gymnastics and Sewing/Fashion Design.

Birdseye Complex Recreation Center

The Recreation Department will be offering a variety of programs at Birdseye Recreation Complex including a pool table, Skee-ball game, computer lab with Internet access, full size gym, game room and classrooms for programs and activities. Activities include art and crafts programs, basketball, open gyms, theatre workshops, fitness programs, dance classes and more. The Center does close on school half days, and weather-related closures.

The Birdseye Complex Recreation Center will be open Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday from 3:30-5 for grades 3-6 and 4:30-6 for grades 7-8 with a variety of activities scheduled in the game room, cafeteria and gym. The center will be open through April 30. All children must be registered prior to attending the center. Registration is ongoing throughout the school year. This is a free program.

Birdseye Open gym Tuesday Adults, 7:45–9:15 p.m.

Birdseye Open gym Wednesday and Thursday, High School 7:30-9 p.m.

Birdseye Open gym Saturday Middle and High School, 10-noon.

The post Stratford Recreation Department offers programs for youth and adults appeared first on Stratford Star.

There will be no refuse, recycling or yard waste collection on Thursday, Nov. 24, in observance of Thanksgiving Day. Thursday’s route will be picked up on Friday and Friday’s route will be collected on Saturday.

The transfer station on Watson Boulevard will be closed on Thursday, Nov. 24. The transfer station will be open on Friday, Nov. 25, from 7 a.m.-3 p.m. and Saturday, Nov. 26, from 8 a.m.-noon.

Residents are required to use the standard 32-gallon capacity refuse containers; garbage or yard waste contained in the larger 45-gallon capacity will not be collected.

Stratford now offers single stream recycling. To find a list of rules, visit townofstratford.com or call the Public Works office at 203-385-4080 Monday through Friday.

The post Thanksgiving refuse schedule appeared first on Stratford Star.

Motorists are seeing dropping gas prices at the pump which some industry experts believe is the result of the recent U.S. election and abundant crude oil supplies.

Over the last week, average gas prices on the state and national levels have declined several pennies.

• In Connecticut, today’s average gas price of $2.32 is down $.02 cents compared to last week and down $.01 cent compared to last month.
• Nationally, average prices of $2.17 are down a nickel compared to last week; and down $.08 cents compared to last month.

Industry experts believe the Trump administration will relax existing energy policies including stringent permitting process requirements in the gas and oil industries. They also believe the new administration will focus on output, rather than pursuing a global low-carbon energy plan. On the other hand, abundant supplies of crude oil in the global marketplace has prompted pump prices to drop for 10 consecutive days. Crude oil is averaging between $42 and $44 a barrel today.

AAA’s weekly survey of prices in the Nutmeg State’s four regional areas as follows:

• Greater Bridgeport/Stamford $2.42
• New Haven/Meriden $2.29
• Greater Hartford $2.29
• New London/Norwich $2.31
• Statewide average $2.32

Today, Missouri and Oklahoma are the two states with the lowest average gas prices both at $1.88 a gallon. Hawaii continues to lead the pack with highest prices in the nation at $2.90, followed by California at $2.76.

AAA Northeast is a not-for-profit auto club with 62 offices in Rhode Island, Massachusetts, Connecticut and New Jersey providing more than 6 million local AAA members with travel, insurance, finance, and auto-related services

The post U.S. election, abundant crude oil — lower gas prices at pump appeared first on Stratford Star.

Nonprofit groups representing Connecticut’s heritage, preservation, library, and humanities organizations are preparing to work with a newly elected Connecticut General Assembly, which convenes Jan. 4, 2017. To set the stage, The #CTPlaces Coalition has scheduled seven regional advocacy forums across the state in November and December. The Fairfield Public Library will host a forum from 10-11:30 a.m. next Monday, Nov. 21.

The forums will preview the upcoming session and brief organizations about the potential impact of the state’s budget challenges and other important issues. Information also will be shared about effective ways to interact with state lawmakers.

“The organizations cooperating as part of The #CTPlaces Coalition are dedicated to preserving and enhancing the state’s quality of life and economic competitiveness,” said Douglas Fisher, executive director of Connecticut Humanities, a coalition member. “These organizations represent Connecticut’s special places — museums, libraries, historic homes, and heritage sites — and when we come together with one voice, we are stronger.”

Other members of The #CTPlaces Coalition include: Connecticut Coordinating Committee for the Promotion of History, Connecticut Historical Society, Connecticut League of History Organizations, Connecticut Library Association, Connecticut Library Consortium, Connecticut State Library, and the Connecticut Trust for Historic Preservation.

The seven regional forums are scheduled as follows:

• Fairfield County: Monday, Nov. 21, 10-11:30 a.m., Fairfield Public Library
• Northeast Connecticut: Monday, Nov. 21, 3-4:30 p.m., Windham Textile Museum
• Greater New Haven: Thursday, Dec. 1, 3-4:30 p.m., Hamden Public Library
• Western Connecticut: Monday, Dec. 5, 10-11:30 a.m., Silas Bronson Library, Waterbury
• Southeast Connecticut: Wednesday, Dec. 7, 9:30-11 a.m., Groton Public Library
• Greater Hartford: Monday, Dec. 12, 3-4:30 p.m., Connecticut Historical Society, Hartford
• Northwest Connecticut: Wednesday, Dec. 14, 10-11:30 a.m., Litchfield Historical Society

Individuals or groups may register for a forum by visiting CTPlaces.org.

The post #CTPlaces Coalition to hold regional advocacy forums appeared first on Stratford Star.

Jordan is a sweet, orange and white male neutered short-haired cat, about 2-years young.

He is healthy, friendly, mellow and likes toys. He may be shy at first, but will be your dear friend soon after he gets to know you.

Jordan likes attention often. He is fine with other mellow cats.

For an application and more information, visit petprotectorsrescue.org, call 203-330-0255 or email contactus@petprotectorsrescue.org.

Jordan

The post Adopt-a-Cat: Jordan needs a home appeared first on Stratford Star.

Rodney Johnson Jr.

A Stratford man suspected of being involved in Friday night shooting was arrested on Monday in Stamford .

Stratford Police detectives charged Rodney Johnson Jr., 20, on Monday evening at his father’s home in Stamford. Stratford officers took Johnson into custody with the assistance of Stamford Police.

Stratford Police recovered a .380 caliber handgun that was reportedly stolen approximately two years ago in Trumbull and an electronic defense weapon. Johnson was sought in connection with a shooting that took place on Friday evening in the area of Bruce Avenue and Hollister Street. Police said a man in his late teens suffered a non-life threatening injury. He was reported on Monday to be in stable condition at Bridgeport Hospital.

Johnson is facing charges of first-degree assault, unlawful discharge of a firearm, criminal possession of a firearm, criminal possession of ammunition, carrying a pistol without a permit and two counts of risk of injury to a minor.

Johnson was also charged with sixth-degree larceny by possession and illegal transfer of a  firearm related to the stolen firearm.

Johnson was ordered held on $500,000 bond for his alleged involvement in the shooting. He was arraigned on Tuesday in Bridgeport Superior Court and is scheduled to appear again on Nov. 22. Johnson was ordered held on $5,000 bond for the firearm.

The post Stratford man wanted in shooting arrested in Stamford appeared first on Stratford Star.

Bridgeport Rescue Mission is working closely this year with corporate partners and is preparing for their annual Great ThanksGiving Project to provide 15,000 winter coats and 3,000 turkeys and bags of Thanksgiving fixin’s to low-income and working-poor families in coastal Fairfield County. The Great ThanksGiving Project distribution will take place Nov. 16-22, from 12:30-3 p.m., at Webster Bank Arena, 600 Main Street, Bridgeport.

“With the help of volunteers and financial support from these companies we’ll provide a Thanksgiving meal for thousands of struggling families, and give low-income parents and their children coats to keep them warm all winter long — all of whom would go without this Thanksgiving were it not for compassionate folks in our community giving back” said Executive Director, Terry Wilcox. “We are grateful to Gold Sponsors: Affinion Group, GE Capital, Reed Exhibitions and Prime Line for coming alongside us to provide vital funding for our Great ThanksGiving Project and our programs and services throughout the year.”

There is a big job ahead and the Mission’s greatest food needs are: 12- to 15-pound frozen turkeys and gently used coats for men, women and children in all sizes, but especially large coats for men. Donations can be dropped off at the Mission’s Donation Center, 1069 Connecticut Avenue, Unit 2B, in Bridgeport, every Tuesday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. The Mission asks that all donations be made no later than Nov. 18.

“We are grateful for caring companies like Affinion Group, GE Capital, Reed Exhibitions and Prime Line and others who are committed to serving our community and ensuring that no need goes unmet this Thanksgiving,” said Wilcox.

For more information on the Great ThanksGiving Project or the Mission’s programs and services for homeless and hurting men, women and children, visit BridgeportRescueMission or contact Donna Romano at DRomano@BridgeportRescueMission.org or 203-333-4087, ext. 111.

The post Bridgeport Rescue Mission to provide turkeys and coats to needy neighbors appeared first on Stratford Star.