Italian Kitchen Celebrates 13 Years in Fairfield with Ribbon Cutting Ceremony

Italian Kitchen Celebrates 13 Years in Fairfield with Ribbon Cutting Ceremony

Fairfield, CT — May 9, 202 Italian Kitchen proudly celebrated its 13th anniversary today with a heartfelt ribbon cutting at its longtime home at 1700 Post Road in Fairfield. Surrounded by friends, family, community members, and local dignitaries including First Selectman Bill Gerber, owner Dominick Giresi Jr. and his father, founder Dominick Giresi Sr., marked the milestone with gratitude and excitement. “Fairfield, we love you,” said Dominick Jr. during the event. “You’ve made us feel like more than just a business—you’ve made us part of your family.”

The Giresi family expressed deep appreciation to the Fairfield community and local supporters such as DoingItLocal, who helped capture the celebration. Over the years, Italian Kitchen has grown from a deli and pizzeria into a full-service restaurant, caterer, and interactive culinary destination—offering events like fresh mozzarella-making parties, pizza parties for both children and adults, meatball-making classes, sauce-jarring sessions, and now, pasta and ravioli-making workshops. These hands-on events have become a hallmark of the restaurant’s mission to bring people together through food. Italian Kitchen is also deeply committed to giving back, regularly participating in local fundraising efforts and community events. As First Selectman Bill Gerber noted during the ceremony, “You are participating in so many fundraising events, and everywhere I go I hear about the wonderful things that you do! So thank you for everything you do for Fairfield.”

Whether you’re looking for a great meal, a unique culinary experience, or a place that feels like home, Italian Kitchen welcomes you to be part of their next chapter. Stop by, get to know the team, and taste the passion that’s made them a Fairfield favorite for 13 years—and counting. To explore their menu, events, and offerings, visit www.italiankitchenct.com.

Senator Tony Hwang Welcomes World Class Game Changing Cancer Center to  Our Backyard

FAIRFIELD, CT — In a momentous step forward in the fight against cancer, State Senator Tony Hwang (R-Fairfield/Easton) joined Hartford HealthCare CEO Jeffrey A. Flaks, St. Vincent’s Medical Center President Bill Jennings, and Selwyn M. Vickers, MD, FACS, President and CEO of Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center (MSK), alongside healthcare professionals and community leaders, to celebrate the grand opening of the Hartford HealthCare/Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center in Fairfield.

Senator Hwang proudly welcomed this state-of-the-art facility to the 28th Senate District, calling it a “transformational and life-saving milestone” for Connecticut families.

“This is a game-changing moment for our community and our entire state,” said Senator Hwang. “With this world-class cancer care partnership now in our backyard, we bring cutting-edge treatment, groundbreaking research, and the nation’s leading oncology specialists directly to Fairfield County. It means earlier diagnoses, more personalized care, and most importantly – better outcomes. This is how we beat cancer.”

The cancer center marks a pioneering collaboration between Hartford HealthCare, a regional leader in integrated healthcare delivery, and Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, globally recognized for its leadership in cancer treatment and research. Patients will now have local access to comprehensive oncology care, clinical trials, advanced therapies, and support services – all under one roof.

“Cancer doesn’t discriminate – and it doesn’t wait,” Hwang emphasized. “Every person, from Fairfield to Bridgeport and beyond, deserves access to the best possible care. This center is more than a facility – it’s a beacon of hope, healing, and health equity. I am deeply honored and thrilled to welcome it to the 28th District.”

The grand opening featured a ceremonial ribbon cutting, remarks from dignitaries, and tours showcasing the facility’s advanced treatment areas and patient care services. The center is expected to become a regional hub for oncology services and will play a critical role in reducing longstanding disparities in healthcare access and outcomes.

“Hartford HealthCare is transforming the way cancer care is delivered in the Fairfield community and reaching patients earlier,” said Jeffrey Flaks, President and CEO of Hartford HealthCare. “It’s about bringing hope to our patients by giving them direct access to the best cancer care in the world. This new cancer center epitomizes our relentless pursuit of excellence to provide world-class cancer care for every patient. As part of this grand opening, we’re excited to continue our collaboration with MSK’s world-renowned experts to elevate cancer care for patients in Connecticut.”

“We are proud to join Hartford HealthCare in celebrating the opening of the new Fairfield Cancer Center, a state-of-the-art facility that will expand access to advanced, personalized cancer care in Connecticut,” said Selwyn Vickers, MD, FACS, President and CEO of MSK. “Through MSK Care Partners, patients at the Fairfield Cancer Center and St. Vincent’s Medical Center in Bridgeport will receive subspecialized treatment guided by MSK’s world-renowned standards. Our work with Hartford HealthCare represents a shared commitment to improving cancer outcomes by bringing world-class expertise directly into the communities where patients live.”

Senator Hwang, a long-time advocate for health innovation and cancer research as co-chair of the bipartisan bioscience caucus, reaffirmed his commitment to fighting for patient-centered policies and access to world-class care.

“This is about saving lives and supporting families when they need it most,” he said. “This partnership gives us the tools, the expertise, and the hope to build a healthier future — right here at home.”

Handheld & Backpack Gas-Powered Leaf Blowers Prohibited Starting May 15

Westport, CT – The Conservation Department reminds Westport residents and landscape crews that this is the start of the second year of prohibition for gas-powered leaf blowers in Westport.  Starting on May 15, 2025, the use of handheld and backpack gas-powered leaf blowers are prohibited.

Conservation Director Colin Kelly stated, “As of Thursday, May 15, 2025, gas-powered leaf blowers may not be used during Summer. According to the Leaf Blower Ordinance, passed by the Representative Town Meeting (RTM) in 2023, ‘Summer’ is defined as the days beginning on May 15th and ending on October 15th of each year.” 

Additional information may be found on the Conservation Department page on the Town Website: Gas Powered Leaf Blower Ordinance

Mr. Kelly continued, “Last year we received numerous written complaints, and our office issued notices to 168 different properties in town. We contacted those owners to inform them about the local ordinance and provided them with sources of information that highlighted alternative options, impacts of noise, and how to limit emissions. This year, we are hoping to have a significant change in the number of property owners that are utilizing compliant equipment and hope they update their landscaping habits.”

He also stated that the Conservation Department will be responding as they did last year, “We need help from the public in gathering information. Let us know by email or letter if a property is using a prohibited blower. We will follow-up by reviewing each complaint and sending educational materials to those who are not adhering to the ordinance.” Contact the Conservation Office by email at: ckelly@westportct.gov or mail at: Conservation Department, 110 Myrtle Avenue, Westport, CT 06880.

For more information, contact the Conservation Department at 203-341-1170 or review its webpage: Conservation Department

Bridgeport Public Schools Celebrates Historic South-West Conference Admission for Bassick and Harding High Schools

Bridgeport, CT — In a historic move for Bridgeport athletics, Bassick High School and Harding High School have been officially accepted into the South-West Conference (SWC), effective with the 2026–2027 school year. This marks the first time in over a decade that these two schools will compete as full members of a structured interscholastic athletic conference, opening new doors for student-athletes in the city. 

The SWC voted last week to approve the expansion, which brings total membership to 16 schools. With this milestone, Bassick and Harding will now share the field, court, and track with some of the state’s most competitive and recognized programs, including Bethel, Brookfield, Bunnell, Immaculate, Joel Barlow, Kolbe Cathedral, Masuk, New Fairfield, New Milford, Newtown, Notre Dame Prep, Pomperaug, Stratford, and Weston. 

“This is a major moment for Bridgeport Public Schools,” said Dr. Royce Avery, Interim Superintendent. “For the first time in over ten years, our student-athletes at Bassick and Harding will compete in a conference that celebrates both competition and character. This opportunity affirms our commitment to equity, excellence, and the holistic development of every student.” 

“Bassick High School is proud to join the rich history of sportsmanship and competition within the Southwest Conference,” added Dr. Joseph Raiola, Principal of Bassick High School. “This is a tremendous opportunity for our scholar-athletes to challenge themselves, represent their school with pride, and grow as competitors and leaders. With our new building and upgraded athletic facilities opening in fall 2025, the timing couldn’t be better.” 

For Bassick and Harding, joining the SWC means access to a well-organized league schedule, postseason play under CIAC standards, and participation in league-wide recognition programs including academic awards, sportsmanship initiatives, and leadership development—such as the SWC Achievement Cup. 

“Joining the SWC will foster a sense of belonging and achievement among our student-athletes,” said Harding High School Principal Vernon Thompson. “This gives them the chance to grow through healthy competition and to be seen on the same platform as schools across Fairfield and New Haven counties.” 

Athletic Director Paul Catuccio shared, “This expansion into the South-West Conference is a game-changer for our schools. It provides a platform where our student-athletes can showcase their skills, gain new experiences, and push themselves to be the best. It’s an exciting new chapter in Bridgeport’s athletic history.” 

SWC Co-Commissioner Mike Santangeli said, “This is an exciting new chapter in the history of the South-West Conference. We welcome Bassick and Harding with open arms.” 
Co-Commissioner Mark Berkowitz added, “Our league has always been grounded in the values of education, sportsmanship, and collaboration—and we look forward to bringing these new member schools into that tradition.” 

Over the next year, the Athletic Directors and Principals of both schools will attend SWC meetings to become familiar with league operations and prepare for the 2026 launch. Final conference scheduling and divisional alignments will be announced in the coming months. 

Bridgeport Public Schools applauds this landmark decision and looks forward to seeing its athletes thrive in a league that reflects the values of excellence, competition, and community. 

Water Rescue

https://www.doingitlocal.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/0news-1-copy-3-1.mp4

Stratford first responders were called to the Birdseye Boat Ramp when a car drove off the ramp into the Long Island Sound. The elderly man was deceased when the car was towed in. Police stated that he was the only person in the car and that the incident was self-initiated.

2025-05-07@1:30pm–#Stratford CT

ATTORNEY GENERAL TONG SUES TRUMP ADMINISTRATION FOR HALTING DEVELOPMENT OF WIND ENERGY

(Hartford, CT) – Attorney General William Tong today joined a coalition of 19 attorneys general in filing a lawsuit against the Trump Administration over its unlawful attempt to freeze the development of wind energy.

“This is yet another lawless effort by Donald Trump to enrich the fossil fuel industry and illegally micromanage state business. Connecticut has the right to secure our energy future, and one that makes the most sense for our costs and climate,” said Attorney General Tong.

On January 20, President Trump issued a Presidential Memorandum that, among other things, indefinitely halted all federal approvals necessary for the development of offshore and onshore wind energy projects pending federal review. Pursuant to this directive, federal agencies have stopped all permitting and approval activities, and in one case, have even stopped a fully permitted project in New York that had already begun construction. Wind energy is a homegrown source of reliable, affordable energy that supports hundreds of thousands of jobs, creates billions of dollars in economic activity and tax payments, and supplies more than 10% of the country’s electricity.

The attorneys general allege that the President’s directive harms their states’ efforts to secure reliable, diversified, and affordable sources of energy to meet their increasing demand for electricity and help reduce emissions of harmful air pollutants, meet clean energy goals, and address climate change. The directive also threatens to thwart the states’ significant investments in wind industry infrastructure, supply chains, and workforce development—investments that already total billions of dollars. 

The coalition argues that the President’s directive and federal agencies’ subsequent implementation of it violate the Administrative Procedure Act and other federal laws because they, among other things, provide no reasoned explanation for categorically and indefinitely halting all wind energy development—a sudden change that reverses longstanding federal policy and is inconsistent with recent federal action propping up other forms of energy. The lawsuit also alleges that the abrupt halt on all permitting violates numerous federal statutes that prescribe specific procedures and timelines for federal permitting and approvals—procedures the Administration wholly disregarded in stopping wind-energy development altogether.          

In filing this lawsuit, the attorneys general are asking the Court to declare the President’s directive illegal and prevent the Administration from taking any action to delay or prevent wind energy development.

Joining Attorney General Tong in filing this lawsuit are the attorneys general of New York, Massachusetts, Arizona, California, Colorado, Delaware, the District of Columbia, Hawaii, Illinois, Maine, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, New Jersey, New Mexico, Oregon, Rhode Island, and Washington.

Assistant Attorney General Jill Lacedonia and Deputy Associate Attorney General Matthew Levine, Chief of the Environment Section, are assisting the Attorney General in this matter.

Fairfield Police Investigate Large-Scale Vehicle Gathering at Local Business Lot


Fairfield, CT — On Friday, May 2, 2025, at approximately 10:55 p.m., a Fairfield Police officer observed a group of individuals and vehicles gathering in the parking lot of Stop & Shop located at 760 Villa Avenue.
As the officer began coordinating a law enforcement response, the Fairfield Police Department was simultaneously managing several significant emergency calls. Due to the nature and urgency of those calls, an immediate full-scale response to the parking lot was not initiated. As there was no active threat to the public, the officer on scene monitored the situation while awaiting additional units to ensure a coordinated and safe approach.
Once the other emergency calls were stabilized, a team of several officers proceeded into the parking lot as a unit. Upon police entry, the crowd and vehicles began to disperse rapidly. It is important to note that this phase often presents heightened risk, as fleeing drivers may accelerate dangerously, endangering both the public and law enforcement officers.
During the response, the Fairfield County Regional Dispatch Center received a report of a possible fire at the scene. Once on scene, officers confirmed there was no longer an active fire and determined that fire department response was not necessary.
Following the dispersal, one officer attempted to stop one of the offending vehicles, which fled at a high rate of speed. In accordance with Connecticut’s statewide vehicle pursuit policy, the officer was unable to pursue.
Fairfield Police are actively investigating the incident. If the subjects involved are identified and probable cause is established, criminal charges will be pursued through the Connecticut Superior Court. The Fairfield Police Department urges the public to assist by submitting any video footage or information related to this or similar incidents. Vehicle takeover events pose a serious threat not only to participants, but also to bystanders and first responders. The Department remains committed to enforcing the law, protecting public safety, and holding those responsible accountable.

Anonymous tips can be submitted via the Fairfield PD mobile app or by texting the keyword FPDCT plus your message/tip to 847411 (Tip411). Tips can also be submitted online at fpdct.com/tips.

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