NIANTIC, Conn. — Seven members of the Monroe Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) recently attended the annual statewide Emergency Management Symposium held at Camp Nett in Niantic.
The agenda for the day included workshops on relevant issues for CERT including severe weather issues, hacking and scamming on the internet, complications developing from the events of the World Cup in New York and Boston, as well as other ongoing concerns.
Various vendors and emergency agencies were present to demonstrate their emergency capabilities and resources. Many of the state agencies brought their response vehicles and other equipment and demonstrated their use, including an Oxford-based drone unit.
The Historian’s Toolbox
Kevin Daly, the board historian of the Monroe Historical Society, will present The Historian’s Toolbox in commemoration of the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence in Edith Wheeler Memorial Library’s Ehlers Room on Thursday, May 28, at 6:30 p.m.
Daly, who posts the Monroe Historical Society’s biweekly historical spotlight posts on social media, will share the many tips and tricks of his process, including the vast resources that are available online, many of which are free.
Registration is required by clicking here or calling the Library Reference Desk at 203-452-2852. The library asks that participants in this program park to the rear of the building.
This program is co-sponsored by the Monroe CT 250 Committee, the Monroe Historical Society, and the Edith Wheeler Memorial Library.
Grand Opening of Solo Study Pods
Edith Wheeler Memorial Library welcomes everyone to celebrate the grand opening of its new solo study pods on Thursday, May 21, at 11 a.m.
“When the library updated our strategic plan a year ago, the public shared their need for more private study space,” said Director Nicole Cignoli. “How to address increasing quiet spaces became the third initiative of the library’s plan. People who come to the library for digital access frequently want to sit in an isolated space to study or participate in Zoom meetings. The library’s current study room was overbooked and we needed to find alternative spaces.”
The library purchased Nook Pod, a partially enclosed mobile, two-person booth in 2022 with ARPA funds. After much research, the Edith Wheeler Memorial Library Trustees along with the library’s Board Trustees approved fund to purchase two, Solo Nook Pods.
“Since the Pods’ soft opening, they’ve been used every day,” Cignoli said. “The study pods are first come, first served, not reservable. So stop by the reference desk the next time you’re in the library to sign in to the pods.”
For information visit ewml.org or call the Adult Programs Department at 203-452-2852.
‘One Man Show’ supports CFJ
Mar Jennings will share a true and personal story that begins with childhood abuse and unfolds into something profoundly human when he performs the “One‑Man Show” at the Sacred Heart University Community Theatre on May 22. All proceeds from ticket sales support The Center for Family Justice (CFJ).
CFJ serves Monroe, Fairfield, Easton, Trumbull, Stratford and Bridgeport, promoting prevention, advocacy, and free and confidential services for individuals and families impacted by domestic violence, sexual assault and child abuse.
The show runs from 7 to 8:30 p.m. and will be followed by a VIP After‑Theater Reception from 8:30 to 10 p.m., with champagne, curated hors d’oeuvres and an opportunity for personal connection in an intimate setting.
Tickets cost $50 for general admission and $150 for the VIP experience, which includes the After‑Theater Reception. To purchase tickets, click here.
Binky Patrol collects over 500 handmade blankets for summer camps
Binky Patrol Southern Connecticut surpassed its ambitious goal of collecting more than 500 handmade blankets for children attending summer camps across the region. The blankets will be distributed to several impactful organizations, including The Center for Family Justice’s Camp Hope, Experience Camps, Connecticut Burn Care Foundation, Kesem Yale, Kesem UConn, and For The Children, which operates both Camp Royal Family.
Each blanket is a tangible expression of comfort, care, and community support for children facing difficult circumstances.
“This milestone reflects the heart of our community,” said Jeanne Malgioglio, area coordinator of the Monroe/Trumbull chapter and national director. “Every blanket represents time, care and compassion from our volunteers. For the children who receive them, it’s more than just a blanket — it’s a reminder that someone cares, that they are seen, and that they are not alone.”
The organization extends heartfelt thanks to its sponsors for their continued support, including M&T Bank, Piccirillo Goldstone Foundation, Aquarion Water Company, Monroe Rotary Club, and Trumbull Rotary Club, as well as the many volunteers who contributed both at community events and from their homes.
Binky Patrol Southern Connecticut will celebrate the 30th anniversary of the national Binky Patrol organization with a community event on June 20 at Old Towne Restaurant, 60 Quality St, Trumbull. The celebration is open to the public, and additional details will be shared on the organization’s Facebook page in the coming week.
For information, updates, or to get involved, visit the Binky Patrol Southern Connecticut Facebook page or contact Jeanne at [email protected].
Paper Shredding event photos
The United Methodist Church of Monroe hosted a Paper Shredding and Electronics Recycling Fundraiser in the parking lot at 435 Main St. on May 2. A steady line of cars formed as residents safely disposed of personal papers, obsolete devices and old internal drives.
The church teamed up with Affordable Solutions, LLC. The event will benefit church missions near and far.
Foster families needed
The Annie C. Courtney Foundation is reaching out to compassionate individuals willing to open their hearts and homes to children and teenagers in foster care across Connecticut. By becoming a caregiver, you can play a vital role in helping a child and their family heal. With over 3,500 children-teens in care (newborn to age 18) the need is urgent for individuals and families to consider fostering.
The decision to foster is a significant commitment, but there is an urgent need for caring individuals for children of all ages, especially those on the autism spectrum, as well as teenagers and sibling groups who long for a stable and loving environment.
As a foster caregiver, you’ll be supported every step of the way and have access to a wide range of resources. Foster families receive assistance with medical and dental care, along with a daily stipend to help cover the costs of raising a child. Regular visits from social workers ensure you have ongoing support for both you and the child in your care. Additional services are available for those children who may need extra help.
To learn more or to attend a free two hour Zoom information meeting ( available twice a week throughout the year), call Annie C. at 475-235-2184 or visit AnnieC.org.
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