🎟️ Theater Under the Stars + A Way CT Can Help TX Flood Victims

July 09, 2025

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Good morning, Connecticut! We’ve got a midsummer mix of theater under the stars, community spirit, and ways you can make a difference — all in this week’s roundup. Whether you’re planning a picnic date with Mr. Darcy or looking to lend a hand from afar, there’s something here for everyone.

Here’s what’s inside:

🎭 An open-air Jane Austen production at the picturesque Lyman Homestead
🌌 The Greater Hartford Shakespeare Festival returns with comedy and summer charm
đź’” How Connecticut residents can help with urgent flood relief efforts in Texas
📗 This Month in CT History: The Year Connecticut’s Summer Never Came
📰 Local headlines you might’ve missed

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A literary classic meets a stunning Connecticut setting in this unique outdoor performance

This weekend, Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice gets a dreamy, open-air twist thanks to Escapism Productions and Lyman Orchards. Performed on the front porch of the historic Lyman Homestead, the production invites audiences to spread out a blanket, soak in the scenery, and get swept into the timeless romance of Elizabeth Bennet and Mr. Darcy.

Expect sharp wit, period charm, and some unforgettable moments under the sky. General admission is $25, with limited VIP tickets available that include seating, drinks, snacks, and a pre-show character meet and greet.

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The Greater Hartford Shakespeare Festival offers two plays, picnics, and pre-show fun

From July 9 to August 3, Capital Classics brings its signature Greater Hartford Shakespeare Festival back to the lush campus of the University of Saint Joseph. Pack a picnic, bring a blanket, and enjoy one epic tragedy and one raucous comedy on alternating nights — all with pre-show music, food and drinks available, and even discounted rates for students, seniors, and military.

Performances run Wednesday through Saturday evenings and Sunday late afternoons. Ticket bundles are also available if you want to catch both shows this season.

🌊 TEXAS FLOODING: HOW YOU CAN HELP FROM CONNECTICUT

As devastating floods claim lives in Texas, here’s how locals can make a difference

Over the Fourth of July weekend, flash floods swept through central Texas, killing at least 82 people and leaving dozens still missing, including campers at an all-girls Christian camp. The sudden 26-foot rise in the Guadalupe River has triggered large-scale search and rescue operations, along with urgent needs for supplies and support.

If you're looking to support flood relief with a financial contribution, it's important to give through trusted channels. The Kerr County Flood Relief Fund is a safe, effective way to help.

Established by The Community Foundation, a 501(c)(3) public charity serving the Texas Hill Country, this fund supports vetted nonprofits, first responder agencies, and local governments providing rescue, relief, and recovery in Hunt, Ingram, Kerrville, Center Point, and Comfort.

While donations won’t go directly to individuals or property repairs, they will reach the people and groups actively working on the front lines. All gifts are tax-deductible and come with a donation receipt.

đź“Ť You can give online or by mail: 241 Earl Garrett Street, Kerrville, TX 78028

Sips & Sliders That Don’t Break the Bank

Need a mid-week pick-me-up? Head over to Marcello’s Italian Eatery in Monroe for a happy hour that’s quickly becoming Fairfield County’s best-kept secret.

Specials run Tues–Wed 4–6 PM, Thurs all night, Fri 4–6 PM. Sip discounted beer, wine, and cocktails, all while munching on bruschetta, calamari, sliders, truffle fries—you name it. Cozy vibes, friendly service, and feels like home every time.

đź“Ť Located at 477 Main St, Monroe, in Clock Tower Square.

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Snag a year of wholesale benefits at up to 50% off — for a limited time!

If you’ve been eyeing a Sam’s Club membership, now’s your chance to get in for less — a lot less. Thanks to this limited-time Groupon offer, new members can score a 1-year Club Membership for just $25 (regularly $50) or upgrade to the Plus Membership for $70 (valued at $110).

Whether you're stocking up on groceries, gas, or everyday essentials, a Sam’s Club membership opens the door to exclusive discounts, free curbside pickup, instant savings, and member-only perks like early shopping and free shipping. Bonus: both options come with a complimentary second membership for someone in your household.

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✔ Instant Sam’s Cash back for Plus members
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These deals are only valid for new members or those inactive for 6+ months — and must be redeemed by September 30, 2025. Don’t wait!

TOP EVENTS TODAY YOU DON’T WANT TO MISS

BUMPY ROADS AHEAD…

THIS MONTH IN CONNECTICUT HISTORY

A deadly frost, failed crops, and the volcanic eruption that changed everything.

In 1816, Connecticut faced one of the most bizarre and devastating summers in its history — a season so cold and erratic it became known as “The Year Without a Summer.” Farmers watched helplessly as hard frosts hit in May, June, and again in July — with temperatures plunging into the 20s by July 9. Crops that had barely survived were wiped out overnight.

Food shortages followed. Prices for flour, wheat, and livestock feed soared. The agricultural chaos drove many Connecticut families to leave the state altogether, fueling westward migration into Ohio, Indiana, and beyond.

The strange weather was ultimately traced back to the catastrophic eruption of Mount Tambora in Indonesia the year before — the most powerful volcanic event in recorded history. Ash from the eruption circled the globe, dimming the sun and disrupting climate patterns. For Connecticut, it was a stark reminder of how far-reaching natural disasters can be — and how one summer can shape the course of a generation.

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HEADLINES AROUND THE STATE

🧸 Bear Family Raids Granby Home, Leaves Peacefully
A mother bear and her three cubs entered a home in Granby through a basement screen door, grabbed some food, and exited without incident. With rising bear sightings statewide, the event has reignited debate around implementing a bear hunting season in Connecticut.

🚤 Illegal Fireworks Spark Boat Fire in East Hampton
Two people were injured after fireworks exploded too close to their boat on Lake Pocotopaug, causing a fire and forcing them to jump overboard. Authorities are investigating and say criminal charges could follow.

đź›’ Elm City Market Reopens in New Downtown Location
After a nine-month closure, Elm City Market is back—this time at the former New Haven Coliseum site on Orange Street. The store’s return brings new life and more grocery options to downtown.

🚲 New Milford Gets Grant to Gift Bikes to Kids
Thanks to a $3,500 grant from Walmart’s Sparks Good program, New Milford will provide bikes and helmets to K-12 students from low-income families—promoting both community support and active lifestyles.

Thanks!

Thanks for reading today’s newsletter — we’re glad you spent part of your day with us! If you enjoyed it, pass it along to a friend who loves staying in the know around Connecticut.

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