Maximize Your Raised Garden: Growing More in the Space You Have

You are invited! Sign up for the first “In the Garden” class of the season at the Armstrong Court Community Organic Garden! RSVP today to attend a great session on Saturday, April 26 at the Armstrong Court Community Organic Garden from 10:30-11:45am. The class will be taught by Alan Gorkin, an organic gardening expert. According to Patty Sechi, everyone will learn to plant together right in the garden. Continue Reading →

Sen. Blumenthal to Speak at Stanwich School’s First Commencement

The Stanwich School is pleased to announce that United States Senator Richard Blumenthal — a former Stanwich School parent — has accepted the school’s invitation to serve as keynote speaker at Stanwich’s first commencement ceremony on May 29, 2014. “I’m excited and proud to attend this joyous and significant graduation — launching these very special young people on the next phase of their educational journey,” said Senator Blumenthal. Sworn into office in January of 2011, Richard Blumenthal is serving his first term as a United States Senator from the State of Connecticut.  Sen. Blumenthal served an unprecedented five terms as Connecticut’s Attorney General. A key player in the national fight against Big Tobacco, he helped bring an end to marketing aimed at children. He also helped lead a coalition of all 50 states that culminated in historic agreements with social networking sites to better protect children from Internet predators. Continue Reading →

CancerCare 2nd Annual Greenwich 5K Walk/Run for Hope

CancerCare’s second annual “Walk/Run for Hope” takes place May 4 at Greenwich Point. The Walk/Run for Hope raises funds to support CancerCare’s free, professional services provided to anyone affected by cancer. “CancerCare is there to provide free services to those dealing with a cancer diagnosis. On Sunday, May 4th, we can be there for them by participating in and raising money for their annual walk/run at Greenwich Point,” said Connecticut State Representative, House District 151, Fred Camillo. “I know from personal experience that facing this illness can be overwhelming, but an organization like CancerCare makes certain that you won’t have to do so alone,” said Camillo. Continue Reading →

Culinary Tour of India at Cos Cob Library

On Saturday April 26, The Friends of the Cos Cob Library and staff  will host a culinary tour of India with Tarun Narula, owner and chef of the Mumbai Times in Cos Cob. Learn about Indian cooking techniques and where certain dishes originated. Discover the many Indian spices and their medicinal value. Enjoy tasting portions of various dishes as you experience an afternoon exhibiting the best India has to offer. Please come in to register or call the library at 203-622-6883 to reserve a spot. Continue Reading →

Tiny New York Kitchen: Peas With Prosciutto

By Victoria Hart Glavin of Tiny New York Kitchen 
Spring is about bright and vibrant colors and flavors. This dish is as pretty as it is tasty. Peas are considered by most people to be a vegetable, but because they grow in a pod, botanically they are a fruit. Ingredients

1/4 Cup Olive Oil
2 Minced Garlic Cloves
3 Minced Shallots
4 Ounces Chopped Prosciutto
1 Pound Fresh or Frozen Peas
1/4 Cup Diced Red Bell Pepper
1/4 Cup Low-Sodium Chicken Broth
Kosher Salt & Freshly Ground Pepper To Taste

In a large-size skillet, combine olive oil, garlic and shallots. Cook on a medium heat for 4 minutes. Continue Reading →

Getting Ready for the Beach? Better Business Bureau Warns Against Weight Loss Supplements

By Howard Schwartz of the Connecticut Better Business Bureau

BBB and the FTC Issue Alerts about Weight Loss Supplements and Potentially Deadly Side Effects

This time of year folks are preparing to go to the beach, and for many, that means losing weight.  While some consumers will turn to the gym and others modify their diets, Connecticut Better Business Bureau warns consumers that some weight loss supplements make outrageous claims that you can lose substantial weight over a short period, without changing your lifestyle. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has levied $35 million in fines against four national companies that were making unfounded claims about what their “weight loss” supplements can do.  In addition, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) warns consumers that some fraudulent supplements may be tainted, cause serious injury or even death. “Claims about dramatic results from weight loss supplements are not new,” according to Connecticut Better Business Bureau President, Paulette Scarpetti.  “Unfortunately, internet ads are exposing many more consumers to products that don’t deliver what they promise.”

Some ads for supplements involve phony “before and after” photos, promise that a product can help burn away 15 to 45 pounds a month without dieting or exercise, promise permanent weight loss, fail to disclose whether their advertised results are typical and even use the logos of well-known news organizations to peddle their pills, powders and creams.

More than 4,300 complaints about weight loss supplements were filed with BBB nationwide in 2013.  Those complaints detail misleading advertising, paying for but not receiving merchandise, refund and exchange issues and adverse reactions due to the use of a supplement. There are many other supplements that promise consumers unrealistic results, including prevention of damage from concussions, enhancing sexual performance and aiding body building. Dietary supplements do not require FDA approval before being sold.  It is left to manufacturers to ensure products’ safety. Continue Reading →