The days of the Welcome Wagon may be over, but if you're new in town there's a place to get the lay of the land in Fairfield -- the Welcome Club of Fairfield/Easton.

This Saturday the club will host its annual Clambake at Penfield Pavilion (see Suzy's Calendar for more details). The beach party marks the end of the club season, which runs September through June. The meal will be provided by Swanson's Fish Market.

Primarily a social organization, the Welcome Club helps new residents by helping them become acclimated quickly. As soon as a new member joins, they receive a welcome phone call and a newsletter, and their membership status is shared with existing Club members.

Monthly events range from "Neighborhood Coffee" to "Men's Poker Nights" and provide opportunities to meet other members. Many activities introduce members to businesses and resources in the area (children's
facilities, restaurants, nature centers, etc.).

"The Club is primarily a social organization," Vice President Pamela Patterson said. "Generally people join to make friends, help their children make friends and network."

In addition to social activities, the Welcome Club organizes fundraisers, community service projects and provides a monthly meal to the local shelter.

For more information log on to the website link below.