Downtown Stamford Transformation

August 2, 2024

We are witnessing a transformation in downtown Stamford! One neighborhood is becoming more vibrant thanks to wider sidewalks and expanded outdoor seating. Keep scrolling to get a better look of the new and improved Summer Street!

Our city held a lovely Peruvian Independence Day celebration full of marinera dancing! Please look below to see some pictures of the party.

You can pay tribute to our distinguished veterans who have continued making a difference after leaving military service. Find out how you can nominate them for the Connecticut Veterans Hall of Fame Class of 2024!

Here are the sections of today's email:

  • Celebrating Peruvian Independence
  • Downtown Stamford Transformation
  • Nominate a Veteran for the Hall of Fame
  • Artist Fellowship Program Accepting Applications
 
Celebrating Peruvian Independence
I was honored to take part in Stamford’s wonderful celebration of Peruvian independence. We raised the Peruvian flag at Old City Hall last Saturday as our friends in Peru were enjoying the Fiestas Patrias peruanas. General José de San Martín, known as Peru's liberator, proclaimed Peru's independence from Spain on July 28, 1821.
The party included marinera dancers, which is Peru's official dance.  Marinera is a romantic and graceful partner dance using handkerchiefs as props. This tradition has been passed down for generations, and it was amazing to see so many young people taking part! I hope everyone had a great time and remember to support our Peruvian businesses in Stamford!
 
Downtown Stamford Transformation
Courtesy: Hey Stamford!
Walking around and visiting downtown Stamford just got safer and more vibrant! Crews completed the Lower Summer Street Pedestrian Promenade, and it looks amazing. Businesses have an opportunity to grow thanks to expanded outdoor dining, wider sidewalks on both sides of the street, a canopy over the road to enhance pedestrian safety, and much more.
Click here to learn more
 
Nominate a Veteran for the Hall of Fame
You are encouraged to send in your nominations for the 2024 class of the Connecticut Veterans Hall of Fame. The state wants to honor distinguished veterans from Connecticut who have continued to make a difference after leaving military service. Veterans recognized for the honor are leaders in a variety of areas, such as education, public service, the arts, volunteer activities, and community and business leadership.
CLICK HERE to see the eligibility requirements, nomination package, and mailing information.

The deadline to nominate a veteran is September 15.
 
Artist Fellowship Program Accepting Applications
The Connecticut Office of the Arts (COA) and its Artist Fellowship program are now accepting applications. The Artist Fellowship program provides recognition and funding support for Connecticut artists to pursue new work and advance their artistic careers. All artistic disciplines are eligible! 

Connecticut artists must be the primary creators of original works of art.

Grants are awarded in three designations and grant amounts:
  • Artistic Excellence grants: $5,000
  • Artist Fellowship grants: $3,000
  • Emerging Recognition grants: $1,000
The deadline to apply is on or before September 20.

Some eligibility restrictions apply, so please review the program webpage before applying at bit.ly/466gXzs or contact the COA program manager by email at tamara.dimitri@ct.gov with any questions.