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Dec 22, 2024

On the Children's Shelf Holiday Edition: “Yes,Virginia, there is a Santa Claus”

“Yes, Virginia, there is a Santa Claus.” This is probably one of the most famous lines ever written. It first appeared in an editorial in response to a reader question in the “The Sun” newspaper in 1897. Virginia O’Hanlon, an 8-year-old who lived in New York City, was told by friends that Santa might not be real. Unsure what to think about this, she asked her father who encouraged her to write in to the newspaper. She wrote in to “The Sun” newspaper and awaited a reply. Francis Pharcellus Church, one of the paper’s editors, wrote a reply that has become one of the most famous editorials ever written and most reprinted. This editorial has since been the inspiration for books and movies and the answer is just as important today as it was over 100 years ago.I love this piece for many reasons. First, Church points out that there is so much that we can’t see that still exists. Church explains “Nobody sees Santa Claus, but that is no sign that there is no Santa Claus. The most real things in the world are those that neither children nor men can see…Nobody can conceive or imagine all the wonders there are unseen and unseeable in the world.“Secondly, while Church is answering the question of an 8-year-old, his answer is thought provoking, deep and something readers of all ages can appreciate. I’ve always believed the best children’s books are written for readers of all ages in a way that is appropriate for but not limited to children. The same can be said for this editorial. It is written for a child but really, it is written for readers of all ages while being appropriate for a child.Third, I love this because the answer is so much more important because of the impact it had on young Virginia. She had a question she was wrestling with. She reached to an adult to help her sort through it. She wrote out her question and read the reply. She was heard, her question was validated, and she received a wonderfully well written answer. What you might not know about young Virginia…she grew up and continued to ask questions. She wrestled with big ideas. She read. She explored. She pursued finding the answer. In 1930, at a time when many women did not go to college and even fewer pursued advanced degrees, she earned her doctorate degree from nearby Fordham University. Being heard and being taught to look for answers, is so important for a child. She didn’t receive a quick yes or no answer. The reply gave her something to think about. Those moments for a child, when they feel heard and validated, are so significant and can truly be lifechanging. The fact that she wrote and read a reply are of course, so significant. She didn’t know the answer, so asked questions and she read.While books are so important for so many reasons, reading can be so much more than simply enjoying a good story. Reading answers questions, reading gives us new questions to ponder, reading introduces readers of all ages to new things. Reading helps us grow.* You can read the full text of Church’s editorial <a href="https://publicdomainreview.org/collection/yes-virginia-there-is-a-santa-claus-1897/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204); background-color: transparent;">here.</a>* Learn more about Virginia’s education, doctoral dissertation and role as an educator <a href="https://newsuat.fordham.edu/fordham-magazine/yes-virginia-a-new-yorkers-lifelong-faith-in-the-spirit-of-christmas/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204); background-color: transparent;">here.</a>Jessica Collins is an award-winning writer whose column "On The Children's Shelf" has garnered multiple Connecticut Press Club awards and has been honored nationally. Visit her blog online <a href="https://onthechildrensshelf.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">https://onthechildrensshelf.com</a>

Dec 22, 2024

Town of Redding News and Events December 23-31, 2024

UPCOMING EVENTS<ul><li><a href="https://townofreddingct.org/government/services/recycling-center-and-transfer-station/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">Information for Christmas Tree Disposal</a></li><li>Registrar of Voters Office will be closed</li><li>December 23, 2024 through January 1st, 2025</li><li><a href="https://townofreddingct.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/JBHS-Program-of-Studies-Night.pdf" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">SAVE THE DATE-Monday, January 6th @7:00 p.m.</a></li><li>For Families Considering Joel Barlow High School for Their Students</li><li>Program of Studies Orientation Dear Parents and Guardians|</li><li>The annual Joel Barlow High School Orientation Evening for our Program of Studies will be held on Monday, January 6, 2025, from 7:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.</li><li>The inclement weather/snow date, if needed, is scheduled for Thursday, January 9, 2025.</li><li>The orientation will focus on describing course offerings, graduation requirements, and the course selection process for the 2025-2026 school year. This evening is most useful for parents and guardians of incoming ninth graders or new students but may also benefit those seeking clarification of options.</li></ul>CALENDAR OF MEETINGS<ul><li>Monday, December 23, 2024</li><li><a href="https://townofreddingct.org/event/board-of-finance-5/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">7:30 p.m. at Town Hall-Board of Finance</a></li><li>Tuesday, December 24, 2024</li><li>Christmas Eve-Town Offices Close at 1:00 p.m.</li><li>Wednesday, December 25, 2024</li><li>Christmas Day-All Town Departments CLOSED</li><li>Wednesday, January 1, 2025</li><li>New Year’s Day-All Town Departments CLOSED</li><li>Wishing you all a Happy, Healthy and Peaceful New Year!</li></ul>NOTICES AND ANNOUNCEMENTS<ul><li>CT DEEP Fisheries Division</li><li><a href="https://portal.ct.gov/deep/fishing/general-information/ct-fishin-tips" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">CT Fishin’ Tips</a></li><li>Employment</li><li><a href="https://townofredding.wpenginepowered.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/ON-CALL-WEEKEND-Building-Custodian-Job-Posting-23.pdf" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">Facilities Custodian</a>- On Call Weekends</li><li>Health Department</li><li>Notice from Health Department: There is a small quantity of free<a href="https://townofreddingct.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/How-to-Test-for-Radon-CT.pdf" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"> radon testing kits</a> available. Call or email the Health Department to arrange pickup. Phone: 203-938-2559 Email <a href="mailto:health@reddingct.gov" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent;">health@reddingct.gov</a></li><li><a href="https://townofreddingct.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/thanksgiving-turkey-food-safety-infographic.jpg" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">“Let’s Talk Turkey”-Safe Food Handling</a></li><li>Heritage Senior Center</li><li><a href="https://townofreddingct.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/December-2024-Heritage-Blast.pdf" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">December News & Programs</a></li><li>Legal Notices</li><li><a href="https://townofreddingct.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Special-Town-Meeting-approval.11-18-24.pdf" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">Special Town Meeting November 18, 2024 Action Taken</a></li><li><a href="https://townofreddingct.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/12.16.24-LEGAL-NOTICE-Special-Town-Meeting.pdf" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">Notice/Warning of Special Town Meeting December 16, 2024</a></li><li>New Pond Farm Education Center</li><li><a href="https://newpondfarm.org/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">Programs and Activities</a></li><li>Mark Twain Library</li><li><a href="https://form.jotform.com/242895194083062" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">“Dream with Us”-Participate in quick query to make our library better!</a></li><li><a href="https://marktwainlibrary.org/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">Programs and Events</a></li><li>Recycling Center/Transfer Station</li><li>Holiday Closures-December 25, 2024; January 1, 2025; January 20, 2025;</li><li> February 17, 2024</li><li>Redding Land Trust</li><li> <a href="https://reddingctlandtrust.org/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">Events and Programs Coming Up</a></li><li>Request for Proposal</li><li><a href="https://townofreddingct.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Emergency-Mgmt-RFP-EXTENSION.pdf" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">Strategic Planning Facilitation</a></li><li><a href="https://townofreddingct.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/RFP-Town-Planning-Consultant.pdf" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">Town Planning Consultant</a></li><li>Request for Qualifications</li><li> <a href="https://townofreddingct.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/2024-RFQ-Planning-Services-for-GT.pdf" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">Planning Services for Georgetown Revitalization</a></li><li>Request for Quote</li><li> <a href="https://townofreddingct.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/RFQ-FY25-01-Highway-Dept-Tool-Truck.pdf" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">FY25-01 Highway Department Tool Truck and Body</a></li><li><a href="https://townofreddingct.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/RFQ-FY25-02-Highway-Pickup-Truck.pdf" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">RFQ-FY25-02 Highway Department Pickup Truck</a></li></ul>The Granite <a href="https://thegranitechurch.org/events/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">Programs and Events</a>

Dec 20, 2024

Top 2024 Destinations for Greater Danbury Locals—Plan Your 2025 Adventures Now!

Residents of the Greater Danbury area—including Brookfield, Danbury, Ridgefield, Bethel, Newtown, New Milford, New Fairfield, and Southbury—turned to Connecticut’s first <a href="https://www.expediacruises.com/en-US/900221/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204); background-color: transparent;">Expedia Cruises </a>travel agency to plan their 2024 travel adventures! From relaxing in the tropics to exploring Europe’s timeless charm, locals embraced these top destinations and experiences:<ol><li>Seven-Night Caribbean Cruises: Soak in the sun while visiting four breathtaking tropical destinations.</li><li>Alaska Journeys: Seven-night cruises, either roundtrip or one-way, with optional 3-7 night land tours to explore Denali—a must-see for nature lovers.</li><li>European Escapes: Italy and France are top picks, whether through all-land tours or extended cruises of seven or more nights. Italian favorites include Rome, the Amalfi Coast, Florence, Venice, and Sicily. For France, travelers often request trips to Paris and Seine river cruises that include a visit to Normandy.</li></ol>A Holiday Highlight: Christmas Market River Cruises (booking for 2026 is underway!)"European Christmas Market River Cruises are a favorite,” says Jim Expedia Cruises in Brookfield, Franchisee. “These magical experiences take you to charming old-world villages during the holiday season, fully immersing you in Christmas themes. Availability for November and December 2025 is already limited, and bookings for 2026 are underway."Make 2025 Your Year of Adventure!Whether you’re dreaming of sandy beaches, scenic mountain views, or cultural landmarks, Mary and Jim are ready to help you create unforgettable travel experiences.Visit Expedia Cruises in Brookfield67 Federal Road and online <a href="https://www.expediacruises.com/en-US/900221/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204); background-color: transparent;">here</a>.Call for Your Free Consultation:(203) 429-5589Start planning your next getaway with Connecticut’s trusted travel experts at Expedia Cruises. Adventure is just a call or visit away!

Dec 20, 2024

Meadow Ridge Flips the Switch on Solar Project

Redding, Conn. – <a href="https://www.meadowridge.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(97, 77, 255);">Meadow Ridge</a>, a continuing care retirement community (CCRC) in Redding, Conn., flipped the switch to solar on Wednesday, energizing an installation that will supply 897,700 kilowatt-hours of electricity each year. The project is the long-time vision of Meadow Ridge’s resident-led Solar Committee and broke ground in August with the support of the community’s ownership and management company, Senior Care Development, LLC and Benchmark Senior Living.  “This is an exciting day on many levels,” said Meadow Ridge Chief Operating Officer Brett Mehlman. “We can all feel good that we are making this investment in the future of our community and our planet while realizing immediate benefits. In 2025, we expect that over 20-percent of the power we use at Meadow Ridge will be generated by solar.”The solar arrays at Meadow Ridge will save an estimated $7.6 million in electricity costs over the life of the project while offsetting 605 metric tons of carbon each year. That’s the equivalent of the annual emissions from gasoline-powered vehicles driving over 1.5 million miles. In a ceremony attended by state and local dignitaries, Mehlman and resident Susan Auslander symbolically energized the project by flipping a giant switch. Two of the project’s three solar arrays are on top of carports over employee parking areas. The third is on the roof of Ridge Crest, Meadow Ridge’s sub-acute rehabilitation and skilled nursing center. “I’m so proud that we are leading by example at Meadow Ridge,” said Auslander, who has been dubbed the “Green Granny” for her work leading the Solar Committee and advocating for the project. “It took both shared vision and courage for the residents, ownership and management of Meadow Ridge to bring this project to life. I’d also like to thank all of the partners who helped make this happen.”The project was designed and built by West Hartford-based Verogy and financed through a combination of zero-emission renewable energy credits (ZRECS) through Eversource, investment tax credits, and a commercial property-assessed clean energy (CPACE) loan from the Connecticut Green Bank. “It has been a pleasure to work with the Meadow Ridge community to bring this solar energy project to life,” said William Herchel, CEO of Verogy. “This system not only reflects Meadow Ridge’s dedication to sustainability but also highlights what can be achieved when committed individuals come together with a shared purpose. At Verogy, we are honored to play a role in helping Meadow Ridge’s residents reduce their environmental footprint as they inspire others to embrace clean energy.”“At the Connecticut Green Bank, we are excited to see all projects that support our state’s green economy become reality. This project is a special inspiration because it connects to our vision statement: a planet protected by the love of humanity. It shows the heart behind the project and the combined effort from the management, the installer, and especially the residents who are a driving force for this community improvement that will benefit Meadow Ridge for years to come. Congratulations to all who made this happen,” said Bryan Garcia, President and CEO of the Green Bank. More information on Meadow Ridge’s solar initiative can be found at <a href="http://www.meadowridge.com/solar" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: black;">www.meadowridge.com/solar</a>.

Dec 20, 2024

The Prospector Brings Sparkle to the Kelly Clarkson Show

In a heartwarming feature on the Kelly Clarkson Show today, December 19, 2024, Ridgefield’s own Prospector shone brightly on a national stage. Celebrating its mission to employ adults with disabilities, the theater inspired millions as founder Valerie Jensen, shared the theater’s journey and purpose. <iframe class="ql-video" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/vidkAkfFYR8?showinfo=0"></iframe> Dressed in a shimmering green gown, Val captivated viewers, recounting how her sister Hope, who has Down syndrome, inspired her to challenge the reality that 80% of people with disabilities in the U.S. are unemployed. "It’s so sad that so many doors remain shut for people with disabilities," Val said. Her vision for a better future began at a stoplight in Ridgefield, where she spotted a building slated for demolition. Imagining a space full of light, inclusivity, and opportunity, Val opened The Prospector Theater—a vibrant, one-of-a-kind movie theater that now employs 125 people, 75% of whom have disabilities.<h3>Breaking Stereotypes and Creating Sweet Work</h3>As Val explained, Prospects—what employees are proudly called—handle every aspect of the theater's operations, from box office to gourmet popcorn production. Kelly Clarkson tried the theater’s celebrated popcorn, sampling Belgian Chocolate Toffee and Peppermint Bark, delighting in both the flavors and the jobs they represent. "This is sweet work!" Val proclaimed, highlighting how Prospector Popcorn is not just a snack but a means of empowerment for their team.During the episode, Kelly spotlighted the theater’s holiday tradition: The Sparkle Awards, described by Val as "The Academy Awards but better." Every holiday season, employees don their sparkliest attire to celebrate one another’s achievements, fostering camaraderie and joy.Val issued a heartfelt call to action to employers nationwide: “Look to the incredible talent pool of people with disabilities in your community. They want to work, can work, and do a great sparkle job.”<h3>Stories of Transformation and Inspiration</h3>Two Prospects joined Val on the stage to share their stories.K Mann, who has worked at the theater for 10 years, said he thrives in his role, which spans concessions, popcorn-making, and ensuring teamwork among staff. Married to his wife Cindy, also a fellow Prospect, K Mann credited his job for contributing to his happiness and financial independence.Stacy, a Prospect for three years, shared her motto: “Don’t let your disabilities define you; let your disabilities inspire you.” Stacy, who is visually impaired, is a Service Learning team member, engaging students in disability education. She is also the cheerful voice behind Prospector Theater’s popcorn jingle, which she performed to enthusiastic cheers.<h3>Holiday Cheer and a $25,000 Surprise</h3>Ryan, the Prospector’s Executive Director, delivered an emotional tribute, commending Val, K Mann, and Stacy for their work and resilience. “The Prospector is a movement,” he declared, emphasizing how the organization is breaking stereotypes and proving the value people with disabilities bring to society.In a thrilling finale, Kelly announced that Kroger, a company committed to inclusivity, would be donating $25,000 to support The Prospector’s mission. An elf dashed onstage with an oversized check, drawing cheers, smiles, and tears of joy from the audience and Prospects alike.The Prospector’s feature closed out the hour-long episode in grand style, leaving viewers inspired by its sparkle-filled message.<h3>Watch the Full Segment</h3>Relive the magic by watching the full episode on<a href="https://www.nbc.com/the-kelly-clarkson-show/video/white-christmas-by-jonathan-mcreynolds-kelly-clarkson-show-cameo-oke/ACCN492421899" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204); background-color: transparent;"> The Kelly Clarkson Show</a>.Visit the Prospector at<a href="https://www.prospectortheater.org/home" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204); background-color: transparent;"> prospectortheater.org</a> to learn more about its mission, popcorn, and ongoing efforts to change the world, one sparkle at a time.*Image courtesy The Prospector

Dec 20, 2024

FC Buzz Weekend: White Christmas, Reindeer Festival, Polar Express, and More!

FC Buzz Weekend December 20-22HamletHub is proud to partner with the Cultural Alliance of Fairfield County and FCBuzz to Elevate Arts and Culture in Fairfield County! Each week, look for a listing of weekend events and activities. The Cultural Alliance of Fairfield County celebrates the vibrancy and diversity of the arts and culture across 15 towns in coastal Fairfield County. Sign up to receive a free eBuzz newsletter with top picks and spotlight events from the hundreds of events posted on FCBuzz.<a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/events/polar-express-night" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">Polar Express Night</a>Wilton Historical SocietyFriday Dec 20, 6:00 pm - 8:00 pmAll aboard for an enchanting evening! The Wilton Historical Society invites families to join them for Polar Express Night, a special event filled with holiday cheer and unforgettable experiences. Guests will gather around for a cozy reading of this timeless children’s classic, bringing the story to life in a festive setting. After the story, craft your own keepsake “Believe” Bell Ornament to take home as a memory of this special night, and remember as you ring the bell you can keep the spirit of the holidays alive!<a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/events/1940s-christmas-by-candlelight-tours-of-the-coley-house-13b9d" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">1940s Christmas by Candlelight Tours of the Coley House</a>Weston History & Culture CenterFriday Dec 20, 6:00 pm - 7:00 pmExplore a World War II home front Christmas at the Coley House. With only holiday lights and candlelight, take a guided tour through this mid-19th century farmhouse, decorated as it would have been during the 1940s, when the last three generations of the Coley family occupied the home. View authentic 1930s and 1940s holiday decorations. Learn how World War II impacted holiday celebrations in America. Taste wartime Holiday ration recipes, and listen to original radio broadcasts featuring Bing Crosby and Judy Garland, all by candlelight.<a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/events/jingle-all-the-way-with-music-on-the-hill" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">Jingle All the Way with Music on the Hill</a>Wilton Historical SocietySaturday Dec 21, 2:00 pm - 3:00 pmJoin Music on the Hill Holiday Handbells and Children’s Chorus for a festive singalong and jingle bell bracelet craft. Perfect for all ages!<a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/events/irving-berlin-s-white-christmas-the-musical-e34bd" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">Irving Berlin's White Christmas The Musical</a>Music Theatre of CTSunday Dec 22, 2:00 pm - 3:30 pmWhite Christmas follows WWII veterans Bob Wallace and Phil Davis, a successful song-and-dance duo who meet the talented Haynes sisters, Betty and Judy. The men follow the sisters to their holiday show at a Vermont inn, only to discover it's owned by their former commander, General Waverley, who’s struggling to keep it afloat. To help, they plan a spectacular show with the sisters and the inn’s staff, sparking romance and holiday cheer along the way. Featuring Irving Berlin classics like “Blue Skies,” “I Love a Piano,” and the beloved “White Christmas,” this heartwarming musical is a festive celebration of love and friendship for all ages.<a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/events/let-s-celebrate-worldwide-3ae2b" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">Let's Celebrate! Worldwide</a>Stepping Stones Museum for ChildrenSunday Dec 22, 9:00 am - 5:00 pmIt’s the most wonderful time of the year! A joyful exploration of holiday traditions from around the globe. Experience the warmth of Thanksgiving through giving and gathering, discover the wonder of international fables and folktales and enjoy a special countdown to 2025 as we learn how other cultures ring in the new year.<a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/events/16th-annual-greenwich-reindeer-festival-santa-s-workshop-presented-by-jenny-allen-at-compass-real-estate-07c96" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">16th Annual Greenwich Reindeer Festival & Santa’s Workshop</a>Sam Bridge Nursery & GreenhousesSunday Dec 22, 9:00 am - 6:00 pmThe cherished town tradition continues for the sixteenth consecutive year at this expansive nursery where visitors can have their photo taken with Santa, meet the reindeer and also enjoy Santa’s Workshop. Guests can enjoy the “Reindeer Coloring Station" and "Letter Writing to Santa Station" while waiting in line for their photo with Santa. A portion of all photos with Santa will be donated to Kids In Crisis, a non-profit organization based in Greenwich, but serves all of Connecticut. A Kids In Crisis Giving Tree will also be available for people to support their important mission.<a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/events/rowayton-arts-center-holiday-gift-show-01c37" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">Holiday Gift Show</a>Rowayton Arts CenterSunday Dec 22, 12:00 pm - 5:00 pmThe annual Holiday Gift Show at the Rowayton Arts Center (RAC) transforms the gallery into a shopping wonderland with original, handcrafted items and artwork from November 29 to December 24. Shop one-of-a-kind gifts by local artists: original cards, prints, paintings, ornaments, jewelry, ceramics, and knitted items galore by over 50 artists/artisans. Proceeds from the Holiday Gift Show are used to support RAC and its educational outreach.See these and discover hundreds more events on the <a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(2, 177, 151);">FCBUZZ EVENTS</a> page at <a href="https://culturalalliancefc.org/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(2, 177, 151);">https://culturalalliancefc.org</a> Sign up for the <a href="https://culturalalliancefc.org/resources/newsletter-sign-up/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(2, 177, 151);">Cultural Alliance eBuzz</a> to receive top picks and spotlights each week in your inbox.

Dec 20, 2024

Connecticut’s Severe Cold Weather Protocol Activated Saturday Afternoon

Governor Ned Lamont today announced that due to a weather forecast indicating that Connecticut will experience a period of extremely cold conditions over the next several days, he is directing the state’s severe cold weather protocol to go into effect beginning at 12:00 p.m. on Saturday, December 21, 2024, and remaining in effect through 12:00 p.m. on Tuesday, December 24, 2024.This is the first time the protocol has been activated this season. Its purpose is to ensure that the most vulnerable populations receive protection from the severe cold, which could be life threatening if exposed to the elements for extended periods of time. While enacted, a system is set up for state agencies and municipalities to coordinate with United Way 2-1-1 and Connecticut’s network of shelters to make sure that anyone in need can receive shelter from the outdoors, including transportation to shelters.Anyone in need of shelter is urged to call 2-1-1 to get connected to these services or visit <a href="https://officeofthegovernor.cmail19.com/t/j-l-gukdrdt-tlluktiylh-u/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 113, 187);">211ct.org</a> to view a list of locations. Transportation can be provided if necessary.“Beginning this weekend and continuing through the first couple days of next week, Connecticut will experience the first blast of arctic air of the season with temperatures dropping into the single digits at night and wind gusts up to 30 miles per hour at times,” Governor Lamont said. “Being outdoors for extended periods in these extreme conditions is not only dangerous but it can be fatal. Shelters and warming centers are available across Connecticut. Anyone in need of a safe place to stay warm is urged to call 2-1-1 to be directed to a nearby location, or check the list of locations online at <a href="https://officeofthegovernor.cmail19.com/t/j-l-gukdrdt-tlluktiylh-o/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 113, 187);">211ct.org</a>. Transportation to a shelter or warming center can also be provided to anyone in need. Leaving pets outdoors in these frigid conditions can also be dangerous, and it is strongly advised to bring your pets indoors.”The following actions are implemented while the protocol is enacted:<ul><li class="ql-align-justify">The Connecticut Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection’s Division of Emergency Management and Homeland Security uses its WebEOC communications network, which is an internet-based system that enables local, regional, and state emergency management officials and first responders to share up-to-date information about a variety of situations and conditions. The system is used to monitor capacity at shelters across the state, enabling 2-1-1 to act as a clearinghouse to assist in finding shelter space for those who need it. Local officials, working through WebEOC, can alert 2-1-1 and the state when they open temporary shelters or warming centers.</li><li class="ql-align-justify">The Connecticut Department of Social Services, Connecticut Department of Housing, and Connecticut Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services coordinate with 2-1-1 and the Connecticut Coalition to End Homelessness, along with community-based providers, to provide transportation for people seeking shelter.</li></ul>For emergency management news and resources, visit the state’s CTPrepares website at <a href="https://officeofthegovernor.cmail19.com/t/j-l-gukdrdt-tlluktiylh-b/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 113, 187);">ct.gov/ctprepares</a>.