I'm a married mother of three awesome kids and a rescue dog named Sadie, a black lab mix. I grew up in Sandy Hook and currently live in Ridgefield.
I studied English Literature at Ellis College and Child Development at Post University and received my Head Teacher Certification in Early Childhood Education through the State of Connecticut in 2008.
From 2010-2012 I enjoyed working for Patch in various roles as a reporter, columnist, food critic and guest editor. I also helped launch 12 Patch sites in Fairfield County in early 2010.
During 2012-2013, I stopped working in order to serve as a volunteer to help my hometown of Sandy Hook heal after the tragic Sandy Hook School shootings on Dec. 14, 2012. I founded the Sandy Hook Arts Center for Kids (The SHACK) in Sandy Hook Center as a creative way for kids and families to heal through the power of the arts through free music and art programs. We were happy to have the Newtown Strong Therapy Dogs as regular visitors as well.
In January of 2014, Hearst Media Services honored me with the "Top 10 Most Fascinating People of 2013" award in the Greater Danbury Area for volunteer work I performed with Sandy Hook Arts Center for Kids. In June 2014, I went back to work and became a Regional Editor for eleven towns in Southwest Connecticut.
On February 4, 2015, World Cancer Day, life threw a huge curveball and I was diagnosed with "The Evil 'C' Word." During 2015 and most of 2016, I battled a "very rare, very aggressive" type of breast cancer with wit, sass, faith and lots of support from family and friends. After 4 surgeries, 16 weeks of dose dense "red devil" chemo, 30 rounds of radiation and tons of complications, I'm proud to say I'm now a survivor of Triple Negative Metaplastic Carcinoma and an advocate of self breast exams for early detection. Being diagnosed with breast cancer at the young age of 45 with no cancer in my family prompted me to start a #MyLeftBoob selfie campaign to raise awareness for early detection.
Read my story here:
http://patch.com/connecticut/bethel/breast-cancer-awareness-behind-pink-ribbons-personal-survival-story-0
In my free time I enjoy hiking, reading biographies, David Sedaris or Kurt Vonnegut books, singing and playing bass guitar in a cover band with my rockin' hubby of 22 years, who is the drummer.
Burke was seeking to represent Bethel, Brookfield and Danbury in the 107th District as well as Redding and Newtown in the 2nd District.
The free concert features Bethel musician Billy Michael and female vocalists Anna Bishop and Maddy Oldham.
The free Brookfield concert features Bethel musician Billy Michael and female vocalists Anna Bishop and Maddy Oldham.
Mrs. McCarthy proudly served as the "diamond star" manager for Elizabeth Arden at Filene's in Stamford.
Danbury's Assistant Fire Chief said the fire started Wednesday morning after the bus driver experienced mechanical difficulties.
"Nothing about what the Town is proposing would jeopardize the Children’s Center ability to remain open," Gronbach said in a statement.
Bethel Police Department have released the identity of the shooting victim at Plumtrees Heights condos.
Danbury police thanks Chick-Fil-A at the Danbury Fair Mall, MCCA of Danbury and Fairfield County Savings Bank .
The Stony Hill Fire Department invites residents to take time to learn lifesaving techniques to possibly save a life.
Multiple reports from residents who live at Plumtrees heights condos are stating that shots were fired late Tuesday night.
Police said an altercation occurred after contractors demanded the Monroe man pay their back wages, according to a report.
Robert DeFalco, former President & CEO of Ampacet, to dance for Family & Children's Aid of Danbury.
Robert DeFalco, former President & CEO of Ampacet to dance for Family & Children's Aid of Danbury.
Cashier, baker, crew member, service technician, manager and more: Search the latest job openings on Patch.
Cashier, baker, crew member, service technician, manager and more: Search the latest job openings on Patch.
Cashier, baker, crew member, service technician, manager and more: Search the latest job openings on Patch.
Cashier, baker, crew member, service technician, manager and more: Search the latest job openings on Patch.
Cashier, baker, crew member, service technician, manager and more: Search the latest job openings on Patch.
Cashier, baker, crew member, service technician, manager and more: Search the latest job openings on Patch.
Cashier, baker, crew member, service technician, manager and more: Search the latest job openings on Patch.