Latest news with #EmilyCurran
Yahoo
19-05-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Connecticut Families: Autism Health & Fitness Center helps those with special needs get strong and build bonds
ORANGE, Conn. (WTNH) — There's a unique spot in Orange where those with special needs can exercise, feel strong and build bonds. Smiles and enthusiasm were everywhere at one upbeat session- a weekly dance class at the Autism Health & Fitness Center. Guilford girl perseveres with music after dad's death 'I like that I can dance and move around,' 19-year-old Emily Curran said. The center was started by co-founder Dedra Leapley and her husband, who raised a child with special needs. They realized he needed more movement, which ended up making a positive difference in his life. 'It was just amazing to see the huge transformation just from getting exercise,' Leapley said, noting this experience prompted the family to open the unique spot in 2014. 'It's truly a labor of love.' Enfield woman with special needs creates & donates 'Birthdays in a Box' for those in need The center is located in a warehouse with soothing paint colors, soft flooring and sensitive lighting. In addition to small adaptive group classes, trainers work one-on-one with participants. 'The heart of us is the staff and their ability to connect with our members just creating that mentorship, that bond, that social connection,' Leapley said. 'I have some members that I give choices to. If they're not sure what type of exercise they want to do I say, 'OK, would you rather do a step-up or squat?'' trainer Karyn Gallagher said. Participant Brian Conroy of Trumbull likes to use the bike, which works his legs. North Haven family finds amazing 1875 time capsule The center also offers holiday parties and a social club for participants. For many, it's become a lifestyle: a place to see friends, get strong and feel good. 'It's just amazing that it came from nothing, just an idea, and we've touched so many people and I could say I'm a better person because of this place,' Leapley said. There are five weeks of summer programming coming-up at the center, along with the social club and some special events. Click here for more information about the Autism Health & Fitness Center. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Yahoo
25-03-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Artists to bring Downtown Knoxville to life for annual Dogwood Arts Chalk Walk
KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (WATE) — The 17th annual Dogwood Arts Chalk Walk returns on April 5, transforming Downtown Knoxville into an outdoor art gallery. The event will include over 300 artists, food trucks, a beer garden, and free children's activities. More than 30,000 people have attended in past years, and organizers expected this year to be even bigger. Lady Vol pitcher Karlyn Pickens throws fastest pitch in college softball history 'Chalk Walk is one of our most popular events of the year—not just for attendees, but for the artists too,' said Emily Curran, Dogwood Arts Visual Arts Program Manager. 'Spots fill up fast—we have around 150 available, and they were nearly gone within a day of opening applications. This year, we have 200 artists on the waitlist!' The chalk walk will begin at 8 a.m. and run through 7:30 p.m. in Market Square. Children will also be able to create their masterpieces in the First Horizon Fun Zone on Market Street, where free chalk will be provided. Dogwood Trails celebrates 70 years of showcasing Knoxville's natural beauty Artists will compete in 12 categories, including Elementary, Middle School, High School, College, Adult, Family, and the prestigious Sidewalk of Fame. Cash prizes and ribbons will be awarded by a panel of judges to outstanding pieces. Attendees can also vote for their favorite in the People's Choice Award, presented by WIVK FM-107.7. An awards ceremony will take place at 7 p.m. on the Market Square Stage. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
