CONNECTING FAIRFIELD

News You Need from First Selectperson

Christine Vitale

National Therapy Animal Day

First Selectperson Christine Vitale welcomed Pet Partner teams Katy Rahe and River; Jennifer Krasnow and Zane, Rob Duval and Sybil; John Brissette and Newman; Bobbi Garman and Davey; and Kristin Minifee and Peter. Heidi Kaht, Mabel Kaht and Rosie Bear not shown. National Therapy Animal Day is celebrated nationally on April 30, honoring the animal teams that play an essential role in improving human health and well-being through the human-animal bond.

May 7, 2026

Dear Fairfielders,

It has been a busy start to May! There are lots of fun events on the calendar this month and many groups to celebrate and thank.

On May 4, in recognition of International Firefighters’ Day, we honored the bravery and sacrifices of our firefighters by sharing a Town proclamation. We thank our firefighters for their service to our community and for putting their lives in harm's way in order to protect our residents and property.

May 5 was National Teacher Appreciation Day and on behalf of our community, I would like to thank our teachers for their hard work, expertise, sense of humor, and dedication to our students and families. Our schools are among the best in the nation because of our teachers. A big shout out to the PTAs that have been hosting Teacher Appreciation Events this week.

Fairfield is a community of diverse heritages; it is one of the things I love most about this Town. Each heritage enriches our community. Recognizing different heritages brings an opportunity to connect, celebrate and learn from each other. At Tuesday’s Board of Selectpersons meeting, we shared a proclamation recognizing Jewish American Heritage Month which occurs in May. We also celebrate Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month this month.

National Police Week is next week, May 11-16, so if you see a police officer next week, take a minute to say, “thank you!” We remember those police officers across the nation who have lost their lives in the line of duty and thank our police department for their courage, sacrifice, and service. They put their lives on the line each and every day in order to keep Fairfield a safe and wonderful place to live and work.

May is also Mental Health Awareness Month. The organization Mental Health America has declared this year’s theme to be More Good Days, Together and encourages us to reflect on what a “good” day looks like for ourselves and our communities. There are many resources available to residents who are looking to improve their mental wellness. The Human and Social Services Department is always available to help connect residents with the supports they need. The Town has also partnered with Lifebridge to help expand the mental health services available to residents. While geared to families, the Fairfield Public School’s Mental Health Resources for Families webpage provides a wealth of information for those looking for mental health supports as does the Health Department’s webpage. We want more good days for everyone!

Protecting the health and safety of our residents is our top priority. As we have shared, speed cameras in six school zones went live on May 1. Cameras are located in the following school zones: Dwight, Burr, Riverfield, Fairfield Warde High School, Fairfield Ludlowe High School and Notre Dame High School. Signs that read, “Speed Limit Photo Enforced” have been installed in these zones to alert drivers to this traffic enforcement measure. From May 1-31, those captured exceeding the speed limit will be issued a warning. Beginning June 1, qualifying violations captured at posted locations will receive a citation. The fine for the first offense is $50.00, subsequent offenses will be $75.00. In addition, there will be $15.00 processing fee for each fine. If multiple violations are paid together, only one processing fee will be applied. More detailed information can be found on the on the Police Department’s Auto Traffic Enforcement Webpage.

Yesterday, the general session of the Connecticut General Assembly closed. In the coming weeks, our state delegation will be sharing a legislative update, but we didn’t want to delay sharing the very good news that Fairfield has received an additional $940,799 in state funding. We are also slated to receive a 75% state reimbursement for eligible costs for the Dwight School Building Project; this funding will enable us to build a new elementary school and early childhood center on the Dwight campus while still moving forward with other critical capital investments in our town’s infrastructure. We thank our state delegation for their advocacy and continued support.

Finally, quick budget update. Due to a delay in publishing the budget in the newspaper, the RTM voted to postpone their vote on the Town budget to May 26. Our Town Charter requires that the budget be published 5 days prior to the vote. The budget appeared in the May 1 edition of the Connecticut Post and the vote was scheduled for May 4. This delay in the vote will not change the scheduled setting of the mill rate by the Board of Finance which will occur on June 2. 

As we head into the weekend, we would like to wish all mothers, and those who fill the role of mother, a very Happy Mother’s Day. Thank you for all for the care you give and joy you create! If you are looking for something to do with mom this weekend, head over the Dogwood Festival at Greenfield Hill Congregational Church; hours are 10am-5:00pm on Saturday and 11:00am-5:00pm on Sunday. While you are there, be sure to stop by the Safe Streets for All Table to give feedback and learn more about what we can do to improve safety on our streets. 

As always, reach out to the First Selectperson’s Office with any questions, ideas and concerns. You can email me here or call the office at 203-256-3030.

Christine Vitale

First Selectperson

QUICK HITS: What's In This Newsletter



THINGS YOU NEED-TO-KNOW



Reminder: School Zone Speed Enforcement Cameras Are Now Installed

• School zone speed enforcement cameras are currently installed in the following school zones:
• Dwight Elementary (Redding Road)
• Notre Dame Prep (Jefferson Street)
• Burr Elementary (Burr Street)
• Riverfield Elementary (Mill Plain Road)
• Fairfield Ludlowe High School (Unquowa Road)
• Fairfield Warde High School (Melville Avenue and Knapps Highway)

• The goal of this program is to improve safety in school zones by reducing speeding and increasing driver awareness during critical times of day.

• These schools were selected based on a combination of factors, including prior fatal and serious crashes, locations with a history of traffic-related complaints supported by enforcement data, and roadway conditions such as long stretches with limited traffic controls that can contribute to excessive speeding.

• A 30-day warning period is now in effect through May 31 before any citations are issued.

• Enforcement areas are clearly marked to improve driver awareness and encourage compliance with posted school zone speed limits. Similar to traditional traffic enforcement, citations will not be issued for minor deviations, but rather for speeds that are unreasonably in excess of the posted limit. All potential violations will be reviewed by two authorized police officials prior to any citation being issued.

• You can visit www.fpdct.com/trafficcameras for more information, including school zone speed limits, reduced speed times, and additional details about the program.

New Train Station Parking Vendor Launched May 1st

• The Parking Department is pleased to announce the launch of our new parking vendor, IPS. Beginning May 1st, paying for parking at the Fairfield Center and Southport train stations will be simpler and more user-friendly.

• We are excited to offer a convenient Text to Pay option. When parking at the train station or overflow lots, simply text PAY to 77447. The same zone numbers for each site will remain unchanged.

• A new pay station will also be installed at the Fairfield Center train station in the coming weeks. This option will be available for those who prefer not to use Text to Pay or do not have a smartphone.

• Current permit holders can expect to receive emails from IPS in the coming weeks regarding access to the new online portal and renewal information.

• If you are interested in joining the waitlist for a Fairfield Center Train Station or Southport Train Station parking permit, please contact the Parking Department at (203) 256-3053.

• As of May 11, 2026 we will no longer be accepting cash. Payments made in person must be in the form of check or money order.

Fiscal Year 2026-2027 Annual Budget Schedule

• The Representative Town Meeting (RTM) will finish voting on the budget on May 26.

• The Board of Finance will set the Mill Rate on June 2.

• Find information here on the proposed fiscal year 2026-2027 budget.

Safe Streets For All: Improving Road Safety in Fairfield

• The Town of Fairfield is currently working with a consultant team to develop a Safety Action Plan to improve road safety in Town. When complete, the Plan will outline a 10-year strategy for enhanced safety, with the ambitious goal of eliminating traffic related injuries and fatalities. This is the same goal outlined in the Town's adoption of Vision Zero in 2024.

• Community input from our residents is vital to the Plan's development, along with transportation and traffic enforcement data. The next opportunity is at the Dogwood Festival on May 9--look for the Safe Streets for All table!

• The Plan is funded by a U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) Safe Streets For All Program grant. The Fairfield Safety Action Plan development officially began in January of 2026. It is scheduled to conclude with the final Safety Action Plan in September of 2026.

• Next step is to take the survey--you can find it here.

2026 Town Beach Information

• Stickers/Passes are required at all Town Beaches starting May 23, 2026.

• Daily Parking Fees - Daily parking is available only at Jennings and Penfield Beaches and may be paid at the gate upon arrival. Please note only credit card payments are accepted. Weekdays -$40.00; Weekends/Holidays - $50.00 

• Lake Mohegan Season Passes: $10 for residents, $20 for non-residents. Daily Admission: Credit card only; rates available at www.ffldcommunity.com

• Stickers - Residents may purchase a Beach Sticker at the Parks & Recreation Dept. for $25. Senior residents - $10.00. Non-Residents may purchase a Beach Sticker for Jennings and Penfield for $250. 

• Lifeguards will be on duty at the beaches from 10am to 6pm, weekends only, from May 23 to June 14. 

• Regular summer hours will begin on Monday, June 15 with lifeguards on duty daily, 10am to 6pm at all beach sites. Starting Saturday May 23, lifeguards will be on duty daily at Lake Mohegan, 10am to 8pm. 

• SAFETY & RULES REMINDERS: No alcoholic beverages or private grills are permitted on the Town’s beaches. For your safety, only swim in regulated swimming areas and obey all lifeguard directions.

• Visit www.ffldcommunity.com for complete details on beach access, passes, events, and updates.

CTDOT Active Transportation Plan Virtual Open Houses May 19 and May 20

• The Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) will conduct two virtual public open house meetings concerning the Statewide Active Transportation Plan on Tuesday, May 19, 2026, at 12:00 p.m. and Wednesday, May 20, 2026, at 6:00 p.m.

• The meeting will take place on Zoom, and registration is required. For instructions on accessing the meeting and ways to provide comments and ask questions, please visit portal.ct.gov/ATP2026.

• The plan will serve as a strategic roadmap to improve sidewalks, bike lanes, shared-use paths, and intersections along state routes, making everyday travel safer, easier, and more connected.

• Individuals can listen to the meeting by calling 877-853-5257 and entering Meeting ID 833 8449 8500 for the May 19 meeting, and Meeting ID 860 3721 1095 for the May 20 meeting. Individuals with hearing and/or speech disabilities may dial 711 for Telecommunications Relay Services (TRS). Individuals may also request that project information be mailed to them within one week by contacting the project team at DOT.ActiveTransportationPlan@ct.gov.

• Please submit comments and questions to DOT.ActiveTransportationPlan@ct.gov or 860-594-2020. Reference Project No. 0175-1618PL in the email or voicemail. 

Winners of the Fairfield Woods Library Peeps Diorama Contest

• The spring Peeps Diorama Contest held at Fairfield Woods Public Library generated a great many marshmallow masterpieces.

• This annual tribute to the marshmallow candy goodness that is The PEEP took place over five days of Peeps creativity in the downUNDER teen space.

• The dioramas were on dispay in the library and voted on by patrons. Prizes were given for artistry, effort, patron favorite and staff favorite.

• Congratulations to all the peeps who participated!

Less Lawn More Life Challenge

• The National Pollinator Pathway is partnering this spring with the Less Lawn More Life Challenge, a free 12-week program to help people restore nature in their own backyards. This program guides participants through a step-by-step journey to turning their outdoor space into a thriving habitat, one small step at a time.

• The Challenge kicks off on May 7 with a live keynote from Robin Wall Kimmerer.

• Over the course of 12 weeks, participants will be guided through a series of fun, expert-led weekly challenges that show up in their inbox. It all kicks off with the Wildr Score, a free digital assessment on the ecological health of your yard. You'll also be invited to go deeper with industry leaders forging this new wave of conservation via a series of live webinars and Q&A’s. 

• Whether you’re new to habitat gardening or a long time rewilder, there is something new to learn for everyone. Already took the challenge last year? Try it again! We have brand new experts, resources and tools, including the new Wildr App!

• Watching birds, butterflies, and hummingbirds return to your yard isn't just joyful for you, it's a gift to your kids, your community, and the living ecosystem we all depend on. It's all free and it starts May 7th. Sign up here.

Interested in Serving Fairfield?

Board and Commission Vacancies

• The Town is seeking qualified residents to fill vacancies on the following Boards and Commissions.

• If you are interested in serving, please fill out this form.

• Learn more about these boards and when they meet here.

Affordable Housing Committee (AHC) – Vacancy for one resident to serve the remainder of the 11/2025 - 11/2029 term 

• The Affordable Housing Committee studies the need for affordable housing in Fairfield and works to expand housing opportunities for residents of all incomes and ages. The Committee maintains an inventory of suitable housing sites, explores funding sources, and makes recommendations to Town boards regarding the acquisition, creation, and preservation of affordable housing. It also collaborates with other Town resources and engages the public to help guide policies that support a diverse and sustainable housing portfolio in Fairfield.

Conservation Commission - Vacancy for one resident to serve as an Alternate for the remainder of the 11/2024 - 11/2029 term

• The Conservation Commission’s mission is to ensure the town balances the need for economic growth of the town and the use of its land with the need to protect the environment and its natural resources. The Conservation Commission works to conserve, develop, supervise and regulate natural resources, both water resources and open space land. 

FairTV Commission – Vacancy for one resident to serve the remainder of the 7/2024 - 7/2027 term

• The FairTV Commission oversees the development and operation of educational and government access television programming in Fairfield, including town and school meetings, educational events and various community happenings to help the public stay informed and engaged. 

Flood Prevention, Climate Resilience and Erosion Control Board (FERB) – Vacancy for one resident to serve as an Alternate for the remainder of the 11/2024 - 11/2027 term

• The FERB works to improve our Town’s resilience in the face of increasing weather events. In addition to offering education on how severe weather affects our neighbors, the FERB helps plan, construct, reconstruct and manage the Town's resilience measures to mitigate the effects of storms. FERB specifically works in conjunction with the Town’s Engineering, Conservation, Public Works and Capital Projects departments.

Land Acquisition Commission (LAC) – Vacancy for one resident to serve as an Alternate for the remainder of the 11/2022 - 11/2026 term

• The LAC is charged with investigating land in Fairfield that could be purchased by the Town for active and passive recreational/open space use, creating an inventory of undeveloped real property in town and reviewing requests for land acquisition by other town government bodies.

Quick Build Safety Improvements Coming Soon!

• The Town's Department of Public Works launch of a series of "quick build" safety improvements will begin soon as part of our ongoing commitment to Complete Streets. "Quick build" projects use cost effective, flexible materials, such as pavement marking, delineator posts, and centerline hardening treatments to quickly implement roadway safety enhancements while allowing us to evaluate their effectiveness.

• The schedule has been modified due to a delay in the supply of materials needed. Stay tuned for updates on the following locations:

• Mill Plain Road (at Riverfield School, Pell Meadow, Unquowa Road)
• Sturges Road (at Bronson Road, Unquowa Road West, Old Mill Road)
• Pequot Avenue (at Chester Place)
• South Benson Road (at Old Post Road, Riverside Drive, Benson Place)

Reef Road Sidewalk Project: Phase II

• The Reef Road Sidewalk Project Phase II will begin on May 7.

• Sections covered are Veres Street to Fairfield Beach Road, with the exception of house numbers 910 - 1100. Those locations require a DEEP permit, which will occur in the next phase.

• Any questions? Call Anthony Santiago in the Engineering Department at 203-256-3015.

Milling and Resurfacing on Route 15, Exits 27 and 30

• CTDOT announced that a milling and resurfacing project will be performed on Route 15 at Exit 30 on and off ramps in Fairfield and Exit 27 on and off ramps in Trumbull.

• Motorists can expect ramp closures between 7 p.m. and 5 a.m. starting on Sunday, May 10 and be completed on Friday, May 15. Traffic control personnel and state troopers will guide motorists through the work zones.

Town Celebrates Jewish American Heritage Month

• This week, the Town of Fairfield recognized Jewish American Heritage Month, celebrating culture, history and the many contributions Jewish Americans have made to our community.

• First Selectperson Christine Vitale was joined by Chief of Police Michael Paris, Deputy Fire Chief Pat Barry and Selectperson Marcy Spolyar, and read a proclamation in front of Old Town Hall, joining community members and religious leaders in honoring the traditions and achievements of Jewish Americans.

• Participants included Joel Weiss, CEO of the Jewish Federation of Greater Fairfield County; Stacy Sobel, Executive Director of the Anti-Defamation League; Tara Cook Littman, Executive Director of the Jewish Federation Association of CT; Rabbi Shlame Landa; Rabbi Evan Schultz; and Rabbi Sarah Marion.

• The event included a special remembrance of the late Bill Gerber, and his support of the Jewish community in Fairfield. He was fondly remembered as First Selectman for his willingness to participate with the community, his humor, and his love of sports. A framed and engraved photograph will be given to his family in his memory.

Arbor Day Tree Planting and Time Capsule Burial

• The Town of Fairfield commemorated Arbor Day and America 250 with a ceremonial tree planting. The tree was planted on the Town Green behind the Fairfield Museum and History Center.

• A white oak tree was selected in honor of the historic species made famous by Connecticut’s Charter Oak—an enduring symbol of liberty, resilience and freedom

• In addition to the tree planting, the Town buried a time capsule nearby to be opened in 2076, preserving memories and messages for Fairfield's future generations as a lasting tribute to this milestone in the nation's history.

• Inside the capsule is a copy of the Town Charter, a map of Fairfield, letters to the future from fifth graders at Jennings Elementary School, a library card activated to work in fifty years, badges from the Fire Department and Police Department, a copy of the Connecticut Post and a letter written by Christine Vitale to the First Selectperson of Fairfield in 2076. Also included are items from our two universities, Sacred Heart and Fairfield University, the Fairfield Museum, the Daughters of the American Revolution, and community groups such as the Grinning Gravers, who have restored gravestones at the Greenfield Hill cemetery on Bronson Road. 

• The Town extends its gratitude to Oliver’s Nursery for generously donating the white oak tree. Fairfield has planted a tree every year on Arbor Day for 38 consecutive years, in keeping with the requirements of its recognition in the Arbor Day Foundation’s Tree City USA Program.

International Firefighters Day Celebrated in Fairfield

• International Firefighters’ Day is observed annually on May 4 to honor the sacrifices of firefighters who have died in the line of duty and to express gratitude to those who continue to serve our town and country and throughout the world.

• Fairfield’s firefighters follow a long line of tradition and honor that inspires them to help our colleagues, neighbors and strangers alike. At a moment’s notice, they are quick to respond to uncertain situations to mitigate danger and combat the threat of destructive fire in order to protect the well-being of our community.

• Fairfield’s Fire Department responds to about 10,000 calls annually throughout 32 square miles of our town, at all times of the day and night, and in all weather conditions, including severe storms and floods.

• We thank our firefighters, and firefighters around the world!

From left to right: Lt. Justin Greenhaw, Chief Kyran Dunn, Deputy Chief Patrick Barry, First Selectperson Christine Vitale, Firefighter Connor Donegan, Deputy Chief Roger Caisse, and Firefighter Tyler Prescott.

Mother's Day Tea at the Bigelow Center

• A Mother's Day Tea and Fashion Show was held at the Bigelow Center for Senior Activities in advance of the holiday.

• Students from Ludlowe High School's Fashion and Design Class in the Family and Consumer Sciences Department were models for the Fashion Show.

Month of May Proclaimed Dandy-Walker Syndrome and Hydrocephalus Awareness Month

• The Lacey family visited First Selectperson Christine Vitale for the reading of a Town proclamation naming the month of May 2026 as Dandy-Walker Syndrome and Hydrocephalus Awareness Month in Fairfield.

• Dandy-Walker Syndrome is a congenital birth defect of the brain estimated to occur in one case per every 2,500 - 5,000 live births, however, this is likely a significant underestimate because of the difficulties diagnosing the syndrome.

• Individuals who have Dandy-Walker Syndrome experience developmental delay, enlarged head circumference or signs and symptoms of Hydrocephalus, a condition frequently associated with Dandy-Walker Syndrome, causing pain and trauma for those with the disease and their families.

• All Americans are encouraged to learn about the important roles that disabled Americans have played throughout the history of our country, and the scientific, literary and social impact of disabled Americans on our world today. The Dandy-Walker Alliance, Inc. is the only national non-profit dedicated to raising public awareness about the disease. You can learn more about it here: https://dandy-walker.org

From left to right in photo, in front: McKenna and Declan Lacey; in back: Connor, Krystal, and Ryan Lacey, and First Selectperson Christine Vitale.

Former Police Chief Joseph "Bud" Sambrook Passes

• It is with deep sadness that the Fairfield Police Department announces the passing of former Chief Joseph “Bud” Sambrook, who passed away peacefully on 4/23/2026 at the age of 90.

• In 1964, he joined the Fairfield Police Department and began a remarkable 42 year career of public service. Rising through the ranks from patrolman to sergeant, lieutenant, captain, and ultimately Chief of Police in 1997, he led this department with professionalism, pride, and an unmatched commitment to the town he always called home.



• Chief Sambrook leaves behind a legacy of leadership, service, and devotion to Fairfield. We extend our heartfelt condolences to his daughter Michelle and her family, his loved ones, and all who had the privilege of knowing and serving with him.

A gathering of chiefs: From left to right, former Police Chief Christopher Lyddy, former Police Chief Ronald Sullivan, current Police Chief Michael Paris

Girl Scouts in Government Day

• Every year, the employees of the Town of Fairfield welcome the Girl Scouts for Girl Scouts in Government Day.

• Designed to teach the girls how local government works, 35 girls arrived on Wednesday, April 29 to shadow the staff in departments across Town, including: Animal Control, the Bigelow Senior Center, the Building Department, Capital Projects, Conservation, Emergency Management, the Fire Department, the First Selectperson's Office, the Health Department, both the Main and Fairfield Woods Libraries, Parks and Recreation, the Police Department, Public Works, Water Pollution Control, Probate Court, Purchasing, and Town Plan and Zoning.

• The day concludes with a special lunch at Jacky Durrell Pavilion.

• Thank you, Girl Scouts, for spending the day with us!

DON'T MISS THESE EVENTS

(Listed in chronological order)



Drive Less CT Challenge, Now through May 31

• Every trip counts toward cleaner air, less congestion, and a healthier Connecticut—plus savings in your own pocket.

• The Challenge runs through May 31. Don't leave prizes on the table!

• 👉 Take the pledge and start logging at CTrides.com/DLC

• See you on the road less traveled!

Fairfield University Art Exhibition: For Which It Stands...

• Now Through Sat, July 25 | T-W, F-Sa 11 a.m. - 4 p.m., Th 11 a.m. – 8 p.m. Bellarmine Hall Galleries, Bellarmine Hall and Walsh Gallery, Regina A. Quick Center for the Arts

• This exhibition examines depictions of the American flag through more than 70 works by a diverse group of artists, beginning during WWI with Childe Hassam’s Italian Day, May 1918 and continuing to the present day, including a textile sculpture commissioned for the show from Maria de Los Angeles.

Letter Carriers Food Drive Day: Saturday, May 9

• Every year on the second Saturday in May, letter carriers across the country collect non-perishable food as part of the nation’s largest one-day food drive, distributing donations to local food banks and pantries to support individuals and families in need. Look for the bag left in your mailbox.

• Since its inception in 1991, the National Association of Letter Carriers’ Stamp Out Hunger® Food Drive has collected more than 1.9 billion pounds of food nationwide, demonstrating the power of community collaboration in addressing food insecurity.

• Suggested Non-Perishable Food Items: Cereal, pasta, pasta sauce or spaghetti sauce, rice, canned fruits and vegetables, canned meals (such as soups, chili and pasta), 100% juice, peanut butter, macaroni & cheese, canned protein (tuna, chicken and turkey), beans (canned or dry). You can also donate healthy, low-sodium, low-sugar items such as beans, oatmeal and other whole grains, and canola or olive oil.

• Is there anything I shouldn’t donate? Please do not donate frozen food, homemade food or home-canned items. Please do not donate items that have expired or are in glass containers. In keeping with good food-handling and food-safety procedures, food that is opened, damaged, out of code or does not have the official ingredients included will be discarded in the sorting process.

Hazardous Waste Disposal, May 9, 9 a.m. - 2 p.m.

• Hazardous Waste Disposal will take place on Saturday, May 9, from 9:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. at Veteran's Park - 909 Reef Road. We ask residents to preregister here.

• The Town of Fairfield’s annual Household Hazardous Waste Collection Day provides residents the opportunity to dispose of household hazardous waste at no charge. For information on disposing of hazardous waste, please visit our Hazardous Waste page or call (203) 256-3163.

• Paints should be taken to Sherwin-Williams, or other approved paint care drop off site. 

• Motor oil, antifreeze and automotive batteries need to be taken directly to the Transfer Station, free of charge.

• Fire extinguishers and propane tanks need to be taken to the Transfer Station, for a small fee.

Mental Health Awareness Month/QPR Training May 11 & 14

Vertical Flight Society Heritage Site Recognition Ceremony, May 15, 1:00 p.m.

• On November 29, 1945, the world's first helicopter hoist rescue took place at Penfield Reef. The rescue occurred during a violent storm, when an oil barge with two men onboard crashed into Penfield Reef.

• Only months earlier, Sikorsky demonstrated the use of a hoist in Brooklyn, but it had never been tested in a crisis when police called Sikorsky and asked for help. In a first of its kind maneuver, the helicopter first dropped a note to the two men, then returned with rescue harnesses.

• Join the Town of Fairfield, members of Sikorsky Aircraft and the Vertical Flight Society in honoring the historic rescue. Both men were airlifted to safety and transported to Penfield Beach.

• Nick Viner, son of pilot Dmitry "Jimmy" Viner, will relate the story from his father's perspective.

Fairfield Veterans Coffee House, May 19, 9 a.m.

• The next scheduled "Fairfield Veterans Coffee House" is May 19th, from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Open to Veterans of all ages for coffee and conversation; facilitated by Mary N. Harris.

• The June, July and August meetings been moved to the Port 5-National Association of Naval Veterans located in Bridgeport, CT. on the third Tuesday of the month.

• The Fairfield Veterans Coffee House will resume at Penfield Pavilion in September.

Memorial Day Parade, Monday, May 25, 10:00 a.m.

These are the activities for the weekend:

• Sea Ceremony at 10 AM Saturday, May 23, South Benson Marina

• Military Remembrance Mass on Sunday, May 24, 12 noon, at Assumption Church

• Memorial Day Parade steps off at 10 AM Monday, May 25 from the corner of Post & South Pine Creek Roads, finishing in front of Old Town Hall.

This year’s theme celebrates America 250 – Fairfield in the Revolution

Coffee with Christine Vitale, Saturday, May 30

Open Hearts Festival, Thursday, June 4, 5:30 p.m.

Blessing of the Fleet, Saturday, June 13

EYES ON FAIRFIELD





Eyes on Fairfield

Daffodils on Redding Road

Photo by June Mastronardi

Eyes on Fairfield is a place where community members can share memorable moments and highlight the beauty of our Town. Please send us your photos at firstselectperson@fairfieldct.org, capturing Fairfield landscapes, events, and places with special memories.

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Board of Selectperson Meetings



The next regular Board of Selectperson meeting will be held on Tuesday, May 19 at 4:00 p.m.

Meetings are held in Independence Hall and open to the public. You can attend in person or by tuning into FairTV's YouTube channel here. You can view recorded meetings here or read minutes of previous meetings here.



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