Town Of Fairfield: 7.30 TOWN UPDATE

Press release from the Town of Fairfield:

7/30/2021

Dear Fairfielders,

The summer always goes by so fast and it is hard to believe that July is almost over. The last two weeks have been bustling around our community and in Town Hall, since my last newsletter two weeks ago.

It's an honor for Fairfield to be hosting the 3rd USGA Senior Women's Golf Open at Brooklawn Country Club, an A.W. Tillinghast course which opened in 1930. The tournament began on Thursday, July 29th and will conclude on Sunday, August 1st. This is an exciting women’s sports event, featuring 120 competitors and we are so thrilled the USGA picked a location in Fairfield to showcase women’s sports. NBC Golf will broadcast from Brooklawn on Saturday, July 31st 2pm-5pm and Sunday, August 1, 2pm-5pm. Congratulations to all the women participating in this national event in our hometown!  Dear Fairfielders, The summer always goes by so fast and it is hard to believe that July is almost over. The last two weeks have been bustling around our community and in Town Hall, since my last newsletter two weeks ago.

It's an honor for Fairfield to be hosting the  3rd USGA Senior Women's Golf Open  at Brooklawn Country Club, an A.W. Tillinghast course which opened in 1930. The tournament began on Thursday, July 29th and will conclude on Sunday, August 1st. This is an exciting women’s sports event, featuring 120 competitors and we are so thrilled the USGA picked a location in Fairfield to showcase women’s sports. NBC Golf will broadcast from Brooklawn on Saturday, July 31st 2pm-5pm and Sunday, August 1, 2pm-5pm. Congratulations to all the women participating in this national event in our hometown!  COVID-19: With a slight rise in cases from the delta variant and the approaching new school year, I know COVID-19 has again become a hot topic of conversation in our community. Connecticut has one of the highest vaccination rates in the country, Fairfield County leads the state in vaccinations, and as a town we are doing very well. Our Town has put together a list of local places administering the vaccine, which you can see here. Our Health Department remains in constant communication with the State Department of Public Health and participates in conference calls with the CDC. The Town is still conducting contact tracing for new cases, which has become more labor intensive as our residents have far more contacts than when we were all masked and not attending large events. I want to remind Fairfielders that the Health Department continues to provide weekly updates on their data page where you can see new cases and other relevant information. The reality is that the delta variant is causing concern among health professionals, but I want to assure our community that we are monitoring this situation. COVID-19: With a slight rise in cases from the delta variant and the approaching new school year, I know COVID-19 has again become a hot topic of conversation in our community. Connecticut has one of the highest vaccination rates in the country, Fairfield County leads the state in vaccinations, and as a town we are doing very well. Our Town has put together a list of local places administering the vaccine, which you can see COVID-19:   here . Our Health Department remains in constant communication with the State Department of Public Health and participates in conference calls with the CDC. The Town is still conducting contact tracing for new cases, which has become more labor intensive as our residents have far more contacts than when we were all masked and not attending large events. I want to remind Fairfielders that the Health Department continues to provide weekly updates on their  data  page where you can see new cases and other relevant information. The reality is that the delta variant is causing concern among health professionals, but I want to assure our community that we are monitoring this situation. COMMUNITY NEWS ALDI GROCERY GRAND OPENING ALDI GROCERY GRAND OPENING ALDI GROCERY GRAND OPENING

• NATIVE’s mission is to provide a wide diversity of healthy, superior quality, regionally native plants to support the national movement of expanding ecologically critical native plant habitats to support our wildlife, while fostering an appreciation for the beauty of native plants. 
• Jennifer Kenny founded Fairfield Performing Arts Studio (FPAS) to provide professional acting instruction to people of all ages. As owner and executive director of FPAS, Jennifer designs her programs to help students build their confidence and stimulate their imaginations
• William Kenny Associates provides ecological and landscape architectural services dedicated to delivering management strategies and design solutions born out of sound ecological principles.

FAIRFIELD LITTLE LEAGUE JUNIORS TEAM BRINGS HOME A STATE TITLE IN ALL-STAR TOURNAMENT FAIRFIELD LITTLE LEAGUE JUNIORS TEAM BRINGS HOME A STATE TITLE IN ALL-STAR TOURNAMENT FALL BASEBALL - 11D STATE CHAMPIONS FALL BASEBALL - 11D STATE CHAMPIONS INVASIVE SPOTTED LANTERNFLY FOUND IN FAIRFIELD The Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station (CAES) in cooperation with USDA APHIS Plant Protection and Quarantine (PPQ) informed my office that there has been a detection of nymphs of the spotted lanternfly (SLF) on Ailantus (Tree of Heaven) in Southport. In 2020, multiple adult populations of SLF were found in Greenwich, New Canaan, Stamford and most recently Norwalk. To read a recent article on the discovery in Fairfield,  click here .  For further information, and guidance on what to do if you see the spotted lanternfly, click here.  For further information, and guidance on what to do if you see the spotted lanternfly, click here Can't see the table below? Click here to view the original story. PEQUOT LIBRARY'S 61ST ANNUAL SUMMER BOOK SALE PEQUOT LIBRARY'S 61ST ANNUAL SUMMER BOOK SALE Can't see the table below? Click here to view the original story. TOWN GOVERNMENT AMERICAN RESCUE PLAN ACT FUNDING here here here FILL USE REMEDIATION FILL USE REMEDIATION  AND FILL PILE UPDATE Many of our residents have reached out to me after reading an  article  that stemmed from information in the new long forms, that were filed in court by the State's Attorney and named new co-conspirators.  As troubling as the allegations are, they are not completely surprising. It is incredible to me that this was allowed to happen in our Town, but as  I believe the most important thing an elected official should do is communicate with residents openly and honestly. Transparency is paramount and public trust is sacred. As a third generation Fairfielder, this is my home, and I feel passionate and care deeply about our community. I will continue to do my best to lead our Town through this awful situation. There are approximately 40 sites around Town associated with the Julian fill. While we have made a lot of progress, as noted above, we will continue to work through the list of sites and I will provide updates when I have more information to share. It is my hope that the justice system will hold all those accountable for causing this mess in our community. POLICE DEPARTMENT
On July 16th, I had the honor of administering the oath of office to eight members of the Fairfield Police Department in a promotion ceremony.  POLICE DEPARTMENT Can't see the table below? Click here to view the original story. FAIRFIELDERS GIVING BACK
Fairfield resident Brian Duffy and a group of volunteers hosted their 2nd Annual First Responders Car Wash, as a way of supporting local first responders and doing something positive for the community. This group of volunteers are exemplary members of our community, who not only braved the heat to wash Fairfield’s emergency vehicles, but also were a blast to hang out with!

The Fairfield Police and Fire Departments, along with the Town of Fairfield, thank Brian and his team for their continued generosity and thoughtfulness.  FAIRFIELDERS GIVING BACK NEW FACES IN TOWN GOVERNMENT

Conservation Director NEW FACES IN TOWN GOVERNMENT

Conservation Director Can't see the table below? Click here to view the original story. Assistant Director of the Department of Public Works n also previously worked under our current DPW Director, John Marsilio. Mr. Marsilio is excited to have John's wealth of knowledge, expertise, and another level of oversight and support for our Department of Public Works. I hope you'll join me in welcoming John to Fairfield. Can't see the table below? Click here to view the original story. FAIRFIELD COMMISSION ON disAbilities
Today I stopped by the Senior Center to socialize with our seniors and issue a proclamation recognizing July as Americans with Disabilities Act Month, as we celebrate the 31st anniversary of its passage. This was special because on June 21st, the Board of Selectmen voted to approve the establishment of the Fairfield Commission on disAbilities. The mission of the Fairfield Commission on disAbilities is to ensure that Fairfield is a welcoming community where people with disabilities can lead inclusive and fulfilling lives, participating and contributing as active members of our town. For more information on the commission, visit their webpage  FAIRFIELD COMMISSION ON disAbilities here here . Can't see the table below? Click here to view the original story. Lastly, I want to share with residents that the Fairfield Juvenile Review Board, (JRB), a community program that diverts youth from the Juvenile Justice System, when appropriate, by handling the case through a community program instead of court. This program is for Fairfield Youth, (under 18), that have committed a non-violent, relatively minor, first-time offense. They, along with their parent(s)/guardian(s), face the community instead of a court room. The Board in turn supports the family, offers services and recommendations, as well as consequences. The Fairfield JRB is seeking volunteer members for the board. Requirements include that you live or work in Town, undergo a background check, sign a confidentiality agreement, and have a heart for kids and families.  Experience working with kids and families, with knowledge of local resources, is a plus but not a requirement to be a Board member. The hearings are once a month and last about two hours in the late afternoon.  If you are interested in learning more or signing up to be a Volunteer Board Member, please contact Detective Beth Leetch,  I hope you have a nice weekend.
Brenda L. Kupchick
Fairfield First Selectwoman Can't see the table below? Click here to view the original story. Community Events
Town Events
July/August Updates
Town Services 
Community Resources Can't see the table below? Click here to view the original story. COMMUNITY EVENTS COMMUNITY EVENTS FAIRFIELD FARMER'S MARKET OPERATION HOPE TAG SALE It will look a bit different but rest assured, proceeds will continue to help feed, house and counsel our neighbors in need and you are guaranteed to find some treasures.

The Tag Sale will take place Saturday, August 7 and Sunday, August 8, 2021, rain or shine from 9AM-5PM. Rather than locating the Tag Sale at First Church, they are asking friends to host tag sales in their own yards and garages that weekend around the Town of Fairfield. This is a great chance to purge so others can benefit from your treasures!

Saturday, August 7 and Sunday, August 8, 2021

Shoppers from all over will come to Operation Hope at 636 Old Post Road on the days of the Tag Sale, 9am-5pm, to receive the location list. 

ANNUAL FAIRFIELD WIFFLE BALL TOURNAMENT here ADVANCE FILM SCREENING OF "GET A NEW DREAM" THE DENNIS WALTERS STORY here UPCOMING TOWN EVENTS Can't see the table below? Click here to view the original story. JULY/AUGUST UPDATES JULY/AUGUST UPDATES BUY-A-BRICK PROGRAM | Fairfield Chamber of Commerce
We invite Fairfield local businesses and organizations to become a part of Fairfield’s downtown streetscape, by purchasing a commemorative brick in celebration of the Chamber’s 75th Anniversary. You will have the opportunity to see your company name (also available w/logo), for all to view and enjoy in years to come. 

The bricks purchased through this fundraiser program will partially be used to help beautify and reconstruct the existing semicircle pocket park alongside the Fairfield Public Library on Post Road, in the heart of downtown. For more information on purchasing a brick, click here. BUY-A-BRICK PROGRAM | Fairfield Chamber of Commerce th here HARBOR MANAGEMENT PLAN HARBOR MANAGEMENT PLAN . BIRD FEEDING HAULT FOR SUMMER late March through November TOWN SERVICES TOWN SERVICES TOWN SERVICES HARBOR MASTER OPENING  for more details. All letters and resumes must be submitted by the end of business on August 11, 2021. RENTERS REBATE PROGRAM RENTERS REBATE PROGRAM 2021 BEACH STICKERS  RENEW COMMUNITY FOREST QUESTIONNAIRE
The Fairfield Forestry Committee is seeking public input, relative to updating the Town of Fairfield Community Forest Management Plan and setting priorities for managing Fairfield's "Community Forest". Please click on the link below to participate in a brief survey. COMMUNITY FOREST QUESTIONNAIRE Can't see the table below? Click here to view the original story. th 2021 Summer Reading Challenge for ALL ages, children, teens and adults! FPL 30 Day Sketch Challenge! Fairfield Public Library continues to offer 24/7 access to their digital collection of books, music, magazines, movies and databases.  Visit the Library Event Calendar to find a wide and varied assortment of Library Programs.

Updates are shared via our website, newsletter and social media. Can't see the table below? Click here to view the original story. (203) 290-4255 (203) 290-4255  FEMA    Red Cross  th PLEASE NOTE PLEASE NOTE : Advanced payments will be sent out to income eligible parents who were not required to file. However, for parents who did NOT file tax returns in 2019 or 2020, OR receive a stimulus check, please use the Child Tax Credit Non-filer Sign-Up Tool in order to start receiving these payments as soon as possible. ChildTaxCredit.gov BE AWARE OF HURRICANE SEASON AND NATURAL DISASTER-RELATED SCAMS AS SEVERE WEATHER EVENTS BECOME MORE COMMON Before hurricane season starts –be aware of these types of scams:

• Clean-up and repair scams: Scammers often offer clean-up or repair services at a low price, and without a contract. By law, home improvement projects must have a contract. Consumers should research potential contractors before making a decision, ask for credential information, identification, proof of insurance, and make sure there is a written signed contract detailing the work that will be done. You can verify credentials by visiting http://www.elicense.ct.gov 
• Charity scams: In the aftermath of large natural disasters you may want to donate money to support the recovery process. Scammers take advantage good intentions by creating fake charities and advertising them to potential donors. Always research a charity before giving by visiting sites like www.CharityNavigator.org, www.GuideStar.org, or www.give.org, and ask questions about how your donation will be used. If someone uses high-pressure tactics to convince you to give, it’s probably a scam. Any charity soliciting in the State of Connecticut must be registered with DCP.  
• Job scams: Natural disasters sometimes cause unemployment, creating an opportunity for job scams. These scammers can be very convincing and often advertise on legitimate platforms. Remember that you should never have to pay to apply for a job, or to start a job – and if a job posting guarantees employment, you should be suspicious. 
• Used car scams: During hurricanes and severe storms, vehicles can be destroyed or have severe water damage. Scammers may try to cover up this damage and sell these cars out of state. Be wary of buying used cars after natural disasters, and always do a thorough inspection and ask for the cars history.

Can't see the table below? Click here to view the original story. –  John James Audubon's  A Return to Pequot Library Outside of browsing hours, enjoy digital programs like story times, author talks, book clubs, and more! Get details on our website and social media:  Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube. Sign up for Pequot Library's Digital Digest eNewsletter or contact our Chief Librarian for personalized book recommendations. Can't see the table below? Click here to view the original story. COMMUNITY RESOURCES Behind in your rent or mortgage? Struggling to make ends meet? Can't see the table below? Click here to view the original story. BOXWOODS ALERT! CHECK YOUR SHRUBS FOR THE BOX TREE MOTH | FAIRFIELD'S FORESTRY COMMITTEE
Find out what it can do to your boxwood!  Please check your boxwood plants for the invasive and destructive box tree moth, which can kill your shrubs. If you bought a boxwood plant during spring 2021, please inspect it for signs of the moth (caterpillars, webbing, and leaf damage) and report any findings to your local USDA office or State Agriculture Department. BOXWOODS ALERT! CHECK YOUR SHRUBS FOR THE BOX TREE MOTH | FAIRFIELD'S FORESTRY COMMITTEE what it can do to your boxwood USDA office State Agriculture Department Can't see the table below? Click here to view the original story. RECYCLING DO'S AND DONT'S | SUSTAINABLE FAIRFIELD TASK FORCE
Fairfield pays close to $700,000.00 a year for our recycling programs, but a lot of our Town recycling is contaminated - in other words there are multiple items in the blue bins that CAN NOT Be recycled. Our recycling processor says that close to 25% of our recycling is contaminated - sometimes it is as simple as residents putting their recycling into plastic bags (which the processor then treats as waste even though the materials inside might be good recycling containers).
 
Learn More: RECYCLING DO'S AND DONT'S | SUSTAINABLE FAIRFIELD TASK FORCE Learn More: Do's and Don'ts of Recycling
What else can be recycled in Fairfield? Do's and Don'ts of Recycling What else can be recycled in Fairfield? Can't see the table below? Click here to view the original story. SAFTEY TIPS FOR PEDESTRIAN, BIKING, AND RUNNING | FAIRFIELD'S BICYCLE AND PEDESTRIAN COMMITTEE SAFTEY TIPS FOR PEDESTRIAN, BIKING, AND RUNNING | FAIRFIELD'S BICYCLE AND PEDESTRIAN COMMITTEE     Motorists

• Expect pedestrians and cyclists on the road
• Reduce speed when encountering pedestrians and cyclists
• Look for cyclists when opening doors.
• Give cyclists at least 3 feet of space
• Connecticut is a yield State regarding pedestrians in crosswalks
• Never drive under the influence of alcohol or other substances that impair the operation of a motor vehicle

at least Pedestrians

• ALWAYS face traffic, it’s the law because it’s safer
• Walk/run single file
• Make sure you’re visible
• Keep your dogs on a short leash
• Don’t cover your ears so you can’t hear
• Cross the street safely, use a crosswalk whenever possible

Cyclists Cyclists

• Ride with the traffic flow
• Obey all traffic laws
• Ride single file if riding with others
• Yield to traffic when appropriate
• Don’t cover your ears so you can’t hear
• Be predictable
• Stay alert at all times
• Look before turning
• Watch for parked cars 

Can't see the table below? Click here to view the original story. GET INVOLVED! TOWN BOARD AND COMMISSION VACANCIES You can also visit our Boards and Commissions page to learn more about roles and responsibilities: https://fairfieldct.org/boards

Interested in giving back to our community? Want to have a voice in shaping Fairfield?  The Town relies on the hard work of citizen volunteers who are appointed to provide guidance and governance on various Boards and Commissions.  The list of vacancies for Boards and Commissions are on the Town Website.  Be sure to check back often as the list is updated as positions become available: https://fairfieldct.org/vacancies To learn about the application process, please click here: https://fairfieldct.org/appointmentprocess https://fairfieldct.org/appointmentprocess EMERGENCY ALERTS | WHEN IT MATTERS MOST  Get alerted about emergencies and other important community news from the Town of Fairfield, CT by signing up for the Fairfield Alert system. This system enables us to quickly provide you with critical information in a variety of situations, such as severe weather, unexpected road closures, missing persons, evacuations of buildings or neighborhoods and other emergency situations. You will receive time-sensitive messages wherever you specify, such as your home, mobile or business phones, email address, text messages and more. You pick where, you pick how!

If you were previously registered with us on the CodeRed system, you must sign-up again by following the instructions below, in order to continue receiving Emergency and Community alerts from the Town of Fairfield.

How to sign up? Click here.                                        PREVIOUS UPDATES: Did someone forward you this email? Sign up to receive my update directly here

This press release was produced by the Town of Fairfield. The views expressed here are the author’s own.