Stratford Singer/Musician to Perform on January 26
The Stratford Library will present Stratford singer Thierry Coriolan-Beauregard (aka Saint) in a special concert, “A Cry for Peace & A Shout for Love”, on Sunday, January 26, at 2 pm. The concert is free and open to the public.Saint is a singer/songwriter/composer formerly from Montreal, Quebec, Canada. His family roots spread across several states in the United States and the island of Haiti. He first brought his Alternative-Soul Music to New York City, where he resided for a few years. On the New York City stages, he inspired many with his unique style of music. Since then, he has written and recorded several inspirational songs. Through his music, Saint’s dream is to make a positive impact on all people groups by sharing songs that bring hope and love around the world. His website is: www.saintmusician.com.Saint, live and in concert, will begin at 2 pm on January 26 in the Stratford Library Lovell Room, 2203 Main Street in Stratford.For further information, visit: www.stratfordlibrary.org or call the Library at 203.385-4162.
Stratford Library “Sunday Afternoon Talks”
“Floating Palaces of the North Atlantic” Is Topic on February 2
The Stratford Library will continue “Sunday Afternoon Talks”, its series of informative and entertaining talks featuring prominent local guest speakers, on Sunday, February 2, at 2 pm. Guest speaker Rick Abramson will return to the Library to discuss “The Floating Palaces of the North Atlantic”. The talk is free and open to the public.
Guest speaker Rick Abramson will discuss the golden era of trans-Atlantic ocean travel and the famous liners. The program covers the evolution and history of the great liners beginning in the early 1800s, the decline of ocean travel, and to the present with the resurgence of ocean travel. It will cover the halcyon years of these great ships, their contributions in both WWI and WWII, and the tragic times that were part of their history. Rick will also display some ocean liner models.
The “Sunday Afternoon Talks” series, hosted by Charles Lautier of Stratford, is held from 2–3:30 pm in the Stratford Library Lovell Room, 2203 Main Street in Stratford.
On October 20, 2024, Westport Police began investigating a complaint about fraudulent checks totaling more than $5,600 being deposited from a business account. Using search warrants and ATM surveillance, Marvin Morales-Pablo, 19, of Bridgeport, CT, was identified as a suspect. An arrest warrant was issued, and Mr. Morales-Pablo was apprehended at his residence on January 8, 2025. He was transported to the Westport Police Department, charged with Larceny 3rd and Identity Theft 3rd, and held on a $100,000 court-set bond. Unable to post bond, he was transferred to Stamford Superior Court for arraignment on January 9, 2025.
Bridgeport, CT – Mayor Ganim and the Office of Emergency Management advises all residents to be cautious from 6:00 PM of January 19th through 12:00 PM of January 24th as the coldest weather of the season will be in the Bridgeport area, resulting in below freezing daytime temperatures and single digit temperatures each evening. Residents may utilize the below checklist as a guide to safety during cold weather:
Check heating devices.
Do not use a stove or oven to heat your home due to potential gas, carbon monoxide, and fire hazards.
Use caution if candles are used during sudden power outages.
If using a generator, please follow manufacturing instructions given with packaging and do not use indoors.
Ensure that pets are brought inside.
Watch for ice on pipes and ground cover.
Bundle up if you must go outside.
Check on elderly neighbors and family members during colder temperatures.
Mayor Ganim stated, “With the impending winter weather, I would like to reassure Bridgeport residents that everyone’s safety is paramount. I encourage residents to take necessary steps to stay warm during the drop in temperatures while checking on their loved ones and neighbors as we prepare for the next few winter months.”
Warming Centers
Senior Centers (Open only weekdays):
Black Rock Senior Center – 2676 Fairfield Avenue, (9:00am-3:00pm)
East Side Senior Center – 268 Putnam Street, (9:00am-3:00pm)
Eisenhower Senior Center – 307 Golden Hill Street, (9:00am-3:00pm)
North End Bethany Senior Center – 20 Thorme Street, (9:00am- 3:00pm)
GBT Station
710 Water Street, Mon- Fri (9am-9pm)
Bridgeport Public Library Branches:
Main Branch – 925 Broad Street, Mon & Tues (10:00am-6:00pm), Wed (10:00pm-8:00pm), Thurs (12:00pm-8:00pm), Fri & Sat (10:00am-5:00pm). Sunday (Closed).
Black Rock Branch – 2705 Fairfield Avenue, Mon & Wed (10:00am-6:00pm), Tues (10:00am-8:00pm), Thurs (12:00am-8:00pm), Fri & Sat (10:00am-5:00pm). Sunday (Closed).
North Branch – 3455 Madison Avenue, Mon & Wed (10:00am-6:00pm), Tues (12:00pm- 8:00pm), Thurs (10:00am- 8:00pm), Fri & Sat (10:00am-5:00pm) Sunday (Closed).
Beardsley Branch – 2536 East Main Street, Mon (10:00am-6:00pm), Tues (12:00pm-8:00pm) Wed & Thurs (10:00am-8:00pm), Fri & Sat (10:00am-5:00pm) Sunday (Closed).
East Side Branch – Temporarily closed for renovations
South End Community Center- Overnight Stay/Case Worker Support
650 Park Ave– Open 24/7
Limited overnight capacity
Snow Related Emergencies
During snowstorms, resident may call the Bridgeport Emergency Operations Center hotline at 203-579-3800 with any snow emergencies. If residents suffer a loss of electricity, call the United Illuminating customer hotline at 800-722-5584. Both numbers are for 24-hour emergency service. Any immediate danger to life and health issues, please call 9-1-1.
For the latest updates and information about the snowstorm, residents are asked to check and follow the Bridgeport Emergency Operations Center X account (formally known as Twitter) and Facebook.
BRIDGEPORT, CT – January 15, 2025– Bridgeport Public Schools joined forces with mayors and superintendents from Connecticut’s five largest cities – Bridgeport, Hartford, New Haven, Stamford, and Waterbury – to urgently call on Governor Lamont and state lawmakers to increase state education funding for all students and to adequately and equitably support Connecticut’s educational system during the 2025 legislative session. Facing significant financial challenges, the district remains steadfast in its commitment to providing high-quality education and ensuring that every student has the resources needed to succeed.
Facing a $39 million budget deficit, the Bridgeport Public Schools district remains deeply committed to safeguarding students from any negative effects. The district continues to prioritize student success and well-being, working diligently to uphold the quality of educational services and support programs.
Interim Superintendent Dr. Avery emphasized the urgency of increased state support, stating, “Our students deserve equitable access to resources that support their academic and personal growth. We are calling on Governor Lamont and state lawmakers to recognize the critical need for increased and equitable funding for all students. We must invest in our high-need students who require additional support to thrive. I am ready to work with our lawmakers, parents and community partners to address this systemic inequity. Our students, teachers, and all educational personnel cannot continue to be left behind.”
Mayor Joseph Ganim also voiced strong support for increased funding, stating, “Bridgeport’s students deserve the same opportunities as every other child in Connecticut. Our city cannot bear this financial burden alone. We need the state to step up and provide the equitable funding our schools and students desperately need. Investing in education is investing in our future.”
Currently, Connecticut’s per-student foundation amount stands at $11,525 and has not been adjusted since 2013, despite an average inflation rate of 2.77%. This stagnation has placed significant strain on municipalities, which have been increasing their local contributions to sustain public schools. High-need students—including low-income students, students with disabilities, and multilingual learners—who are disproportionately represented in Connecticut’s largest cities, continue to suffer from inadequate funding. This has led to staffing shortages and insufficient services that are vital for student success.
Echoing the recommendations from the 119K Commission’s Young People First report, the coalition of city leaders urged state lawmakers to:
Increase the state’s per-student foundation amount and index it to inflation.
Eliminate fiscal barriers preventing adequate investment in public education.
Equitably allocate funding to support Connecticut’s highest-need students.
Dr. Avery and his counterparts stressed that investing in education is investing in the future of Connecticut. Equitable funding is essential to providing all students with the opportunities and resources they need to succeed.
Earlier today, the Bridgeport Emergency Communications Center was alerted by a judicial marshal regarding former city assistant fire chief Harold Clarke’s failure to appear in court this morning. Bridgeport Police responded to Clarke’s last known GPS location, where they discovered a tragic, untimely death.
In November, a six-person jury convicted Clarke on two counts of second-degree sexual assault. He faced a potential prison sentence of up to 20 years for these charges. Authorities have confirmed that this is an ongoing investigation.
I send my condolences to Harold Clarke’s family. I’m deeply sorry for your loss, please know that my thoughts and prayers are with the family during this difficult time. I’m wishing you comfort and peace during this time of sorrow stated Mayor Ganim.
On behalf of the Bridgeport Police Department, we send our sincere condolences to the family and friends of Harold Clarke stated Chief Porter.
My condolences to the family and friends of Harold Clarke Sr. Chief Clarke spent 34 ½ years with the Bridgeport Fire Department. Losing a loved one is never easy for the family and friends left behind but as time goes on you will remember the joy that he brought into your lives stated Fire Chief Lance Edwards.
Report of a structure fire at Summerfield Ave near Clermont Street in Bridgeport. Firefighters have knocked down the fire and are currently checking for extensions.
ATTORNEY GENERAL TONG, MAYOR SIMMONS, STAMFORD POLICE, STATE DEPARTMENT OF CONSUMER PROTECTION, DEPARTMENT OF EMERGENCY SERVICES AND PUBLIC PROTECTION, DEPARTMENT OF REVENUE SERVICES, DEPARTMENT OF LABOR ANNOUNCE CONFISCATION OF MORE THAN 135 LBS OF ILLEGAL CANNABIS
(Hartford, CT) – Attorney General William Tong, Stamford Mayor Caroline Simmons, Stamford Police Chief Tim Shaw, Consumer Protection Commissioner Bryan Cafferelli, Connecticut Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection Commissioner Ronnell Higgins, Department of Revenue Services Commissioner Mark Boughton, and Department of Labor Commissioner Danté Bartolomeo today announced results of a December raid on Stamford smoke shops, netting more than 135 pounds of illegal cannabis products from eight shops found violating numerous criminal and civil statutes including illegal drug sales, underage sales, labor violations, and tax violations.
The raids were conducted jointly by the Office of the Attorney General, the Department of Consumer Protection, Stamford Police Department Narcotics & Organized Crime Unit, State Police, Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services, Department of Labor, and Department of Revenue Services on December 19.
Shops found in violation include Hope Breeze at 1074 Hope Street, Stamford Vape and Smoke at 221 Hope Street, World Exotic at 2284 Summer Street, Smoke Clouds at 1136-1138 E Main Street, Smoke Times at 108 Bedford Street, Landmark Smoke Shop at 118 Broad Street, Smokey Bear Smoke Shop at 59 Broad Street, and Bedford St. Market at 27 Bedford Street.
Investigators uncovered 4,826 units of unlawful and unregulated products, including marijuana flower and illegal high-THC edibles in youth-attractive snack and candy packaging.
Hope Breeze and World Exotic are both operating under stipulated judgements with the Office of the Attorney General following prior violations. Those businesses paid a combined $50,000 civil penalty to the State in 2024 and are subject to a suspended civil penalty of another $70,000 if found in violation of the judgment. The Office of the Attorney General is evaluating all legal options to enforce the judgment, including filing a motion for contempt in Superior Court.
Due to the ongoing criminal and civil investigations, further details are being withheld.
“Legal cannabis is not a free-for-all. If you are unlicensed, if you sell untested, unregulated cannabis, if you sell to minors, we will know, and we will hold you accountable. Today’s announcement represents the combined efforts of state and local law enforcement across numerous agencies, and should send a clear message to anyone continuing to break the law—there is no excuse and no tolerance for illegal cannabis sales,” said Attorney General Tong.
“Protecting public health and safety, especially of minors, is one of my top priorities,” said Stamford Mayor Caroline Simmons. “I want to thank the Office of the Attorney General, the Stamford Police Department Narcotics & Organized Crime Unit, Connecticut State Police, the Department of Consumer Protection, the Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services, the Department of Labor, and the Department of Revenue Services for their coordinated efforts in these raids, which resulted in the removal of illegal cannabis products from multiple Stamford smoke shops. These raids send a strong message that the City of Stamford will not tolerate illegal, unregulated, and harmful products being sold in our community. My administration remains committed to working with our local and state partners to protect public health and ensure all our businesses are upholding the law.”
“The Department of Consumer Protection continues to work closely with its sister agencies with the shared goal of protecting public health and safety,” said DCP Commissioner Bryan T. Cafferelli. “Cannabis products are intended for adults 21 years and older, and we know many of these illegal products are making it into the hands of teenagers and younger. We’re asking parents to familiarize themselves with what these illegal products look like and talk with their children about why consuming these products is harmful to their health. As always, we remind adults who choose to consume cannabis to do so responsibly — including making purchases through the regulated market, which ensures products meet the state’s rigorous testing standards, meet strict packaging and labeling requirements, and guarantee that you are receiving exactly what you are purchasing.”
“Substance use prevention is about building healthier, safer communities through education, collaboration, and enforcement. Since 1997, DMHAS has worked to reduce the availability of substances such as tobacco from the hands of minors which has established a foundation for broader substance use prevention efforts. DMHAS is committed to participating in these important partnerships, statewide, to educate retailers on public health risks and the importance of complying with state and federal laws,” said Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services Commissioner Nancy Navarretta.
“This is another great example of interagency cooperation to ensure safer communities and compliance with state regulations,” said Department of Revenue Services Commissioner Mark Boughton. “I’m proud of the continued excellent work of our Criminal Investigations Division and thank our partners who made this operation a success.”
“These joint operations require significant coordination and cooperation. I commend CTDOL Wage and Workplace Division investigators and all our law enforcement, municipal, and agency partners. Shutting down bad actors helps CTDOL protect the workforce as well as all the businesses that operate above board and in compliance with the law,” Department of Labor Commissioner Danté Bartolomeo.
Residents over age 21 can legally possess and consume cannabis in Connecticut. Cannabis products may only be sold in the regulated market and must meet rigorous testing and packaging requirements. For example, packaging for edible cannabis products must be uniformly white and cannot be visually similar to any commercially similar product that does not contain cannabis. Cannabis products sold outside of the regulated market continue to be illegal and may subject sellers to civil and criminal penalties.
As part of the Accelerator, Bridgeport and New Haven will work closely with Trust for Public Land (TPL) to work towards ensuring every resident has access to a park or green space within a 10-minute walk from home. This partnership reflects Bridgeport’s and New Haven’s commitments to creating equitable and accessible green spaces that enhance quality of life for all.
“As the Park City, we are excited to participate in this opportunity with Trust for Public Land,” stated Mayor Ganim. “Trust for Public Land and the City of Bridgeport have a long-standing relationship advancing new park development within the city and implementing the waterfront pathway. We look forward to continuing this partnership and participating in the Park Equity Accelerator.”
Since its launch in 2017, thanks to support from The JPB Foundation, TPL’s 10-Minute Walk® program has partnered with more than 300 mayors and city leaders across 50 states and Washington, D.C., helping cities to address critical issues such as public health, climate resilience, environmental sustainability, and economic development through parks. The Accelerator specifically provides tailored support to help cities close the park equity gap through changes to policies and practices that will improve access to quality green spaces, especially in underserved neighborhoods.
Through the Park Equity Accelerator, Bridgeport will receive customized technical support to create a standardized framework for assessing the quality, amenities, and equity of the City’s parks, guiding priority improvements and future developments. New Haven will receive support to identify and develop tailored policies and practices to improve the Parks and Recreation Department’s ability to invest in park maintenance, engagement, and improvements. These efforts will also enhance funding processes by evaluating current park conditions, promoting inclusivity for diverse user groups, and addressing climate challenges such as air quality, stormwater management, and extreme heat. This initiative aims to meet Bridgeport and New Haven’s unique challenges as coastal cities, including chronic flooding and the urgent need for resiliency improvements. Other cities selected for this year’s Accelerator include Birmingham, AL; Tacoma, WA; and Chicago, IL, which will join Bridgeport and New Haven in the mission to drive park equity forward nationwide.
“Our park systems are at the heart of our Connecticut cities, but we know there is more work to be done to ensure everyone has access to safe and welcoming green spaces,” said Walker Holmes, Mid-Atlantic VP And Connecticut State Director. “The support and expertise provided by the Accelerator will allow us to address specific needs, improve access to parks, and bring lasting benefits to Bridgeport and New Haven residents.”
The Park Equity Accelerator also amplifies lessons learned for cities nationwide.
“Park equity challenges can be quite similar across communities,” said Bianca Clarke, Parks Initiative Lead and Senior Director of the 10-Minute Walk® Program. “Our goal is to share solutions and insights from pioneering cities like Bridgeport and New Haven to help other communities across the U.S. break down barriers to park access. This collaborative approach can create a ripple effect, supporting more cities in achieving equitable, high-quality parks for all.”
About Trust for Public Land
Trust for Public Land (TPL) is a national nonprofit that works to connect everyone to the benefits and joys of the outdoors. As a leader in equitable access to the outdoors, TPL works with communities to create parks and protect public land where they are needed most. Since 1972, TPL has protected more than 4 million acres of public land, created more than 5,420 parks, trails, schoolyards, and iconic outdoor places, and raised $110 billion in public funding for parks and public lands, and connected nearly 9.7 million people to the outdoors. To learn more, visit tpl.org
Recognizing the pressing challenges within the Special Education (SPED) department, Bridgeport Public Schools has taken proactive steps by launching a Special Education Task Force. This initiative underscores the district’s deep understanding of existing issues and its commitment to ensuring all students receive the high-quality support and education they deserve.
The task force was formed to make an in-depth assessment of current practices, identify areas for meaningful improvement, and implement innovative solutions. By prioritizing this initiative, the district is reaffirming its dedication to fostering an inclusive and supportive educational environment where every student can thrive.
“We fully acknowledge the concerns surrounding our Special Education services and are taking decisive action,” said Dr. Royce Avery, Interim Superintendent. “As a father of a daughter who is deaf, I understand firsthand the importance of ensuring every child has access to the support they need. This issue is deeply personal to me, and I am fully committed to prioritizing and strengthening our Special Education program to better serve our students and families.”
Key Focus Areas and Goals:
Strengthening Public Education: Fostering collaboration among educators, administrators, and community members to better serve students with disabilities and bilingual learners.
Data-Driven Improvement: Utilizing findings from previous evaluations to enhance assessment methods and special education services.
Tailored Solutions: Advancing plans for an in-district specialized facility to reduce reliance on out-of-district placements and providing personalized support.
Capacity Building: Expanding professional development for educators and parents to improve understanding of student needs while applying special education strategies.
Community Engagement: Building trust and encouraging involvement through transparent communication, parent engagement, and advocacy initiatives.
Next Steps:
The task force will meet regularly—initially with increased frequency—to quickly address challenges and create a comprehensive action plan. Community feedback will be integral, with ongoing updates and forums planned to ensure transparency and inclusive participation.
“This initiative reflects our promise to take meaningful, collaborative action,” said Dr. Royce Avery, Interim Superintendent. “By working together, we can create impactful solutions that support our students and families.”
Bridgeport, CT – The Bridgeport Police Department has issued a public service announcement following a surge in vehicle break-ins across the city. Lt. Stacey Lyons of the Bridgeport Police Department shared valuable tips to help residents safeguard their vehicles and belongings:
Park in Well-Lit Areas: Criminals are less likely to target vehicles parked under streetlights or in brightly lit areas.
Activate Vehicle Alarms: If your car has an alarm, ensure it is activated whenever you park.
Choose Locations with Cameras: Parking near surveillance cameras can deter potential thieves.
Keep Valuables Out of Sight: Do not leave items like laptops, cell phones, or GPS devices visible in your vehicle. Bring these items inside your home to avoid temptation.
Use Indoor Parking When Possible: Whenever feasible, park your vehicle inside a garage or secure location.
If your vehicle has been broken into, you are urged to report the incident to the Bridgeport Police Department dispatch at (203) 576-7671. For general inquiries or further safety advice, contact the department at (203) 581-5100.
Lt. Lyons emphasized the department’s commitment to addressing these crimes:
“The Bridgeport Police Department is doing everything we can to keep your property safe. If you have video footage or information regarding these incidents, please share it with us. Your cooperation is vital to our efforts.”
The department reminds residents that any video evidence or additional details about these crimes can significantly aid in their investigations.
