BRIDGEPORT – More than 235 business and community leaders were on hand at the Bridgeport Holiday Inn & Conference last month for a luncheon to salute Michael D. Schwartz for serving as the 71st ringmaster of The Barnum Festival. Rabbi James Prosnit of Congregation B’nai Israel in Bridgeport delivered the invocation at the luncheon, which also marked the official kick-off of this year’s Festival events.

A resident of Fairfield, Schwartz is retired as president and CEO of The Kennedy Center in Trumbull. A long-time community leader and advocate, he is also a member of Congregation B’nai Israel in Bridgeport.

Held for the first time in 1949, the festival serves as a celebration of the City of Bridgeport and the surrounding area, to help support local businesses. The Festival culminates in a weekend-long Barnum Palooza that hosts parades, plays, fireworks, and other family-friendly festivities.

Part of The Barnum Festival proceeds go to help special needs children in the community.

“As Ringmaster of the Barnum Festival, I have an opportunity to give back to the community in a big way,” said Schwartz at the luncheon. “I am truly honored to lead this major state festival and have introduced several new and exciting events.”

CAP: Martin D. Schwartz and his wife Elaine (center), at the luncheon, with his family: (left) daughter and son-in-law, Allyson and Bryan and their children; (right) son  Michael Schwartz and his children; Not shown, daughter-in-law Jill Schwartz. credit: Stuart Walls, Woodstock Studio.