<p><strong>New Fairfield Resident Kristine Greco Achieves Prestigious APTA Neurologic Clinical Specialist Certification</strong></p><p>RVNAhealth is proud to announce that Kristine Greco, PT, MPT, NCS, LSVT BIG, CCVR, CDP, a physical therapist at RVNAhealth, has achieved Board Certification as a Neurologic Clinical Specialist (NCS) through the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA).</p><p>This elite certification represents the highest level of expertise in neurologic physical therapy, recognizing advanced clinical skills in treating patients with stroke, brain injury, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s Disease, and other neurological conditions. The rigorous certification process requires extensive clinical experience, advanced coursework, and the successful completion of a comprehensive board examination, distinguishing Kris as a leader in her field.</p><p>Kris, a valued member of RVNAhealth since 2017, has long been recognized for her commitment to patient-centered care. She works with both home health and outpatient rehabilitation clients, helping them regain mobility and independence. In addition to her NCS distinction, Kris is also certified in LSVT BIG therapy for Parkinson’s Disease, vestibular rehabilitation (CCVR), and dementia care (CDP), further enhancing her ability to support individuals with complex neurological conditions.</p><p>Achieving Board Certification in Neurologic Physical Therapy places Kris among an elite group of specialists nationwide, ensuring that RVNAhealth patients receive the highest standard of care in neurological rehabilitation.</p><p>We congratulate Kris on this remarkable achievement and celebrate her dedication to advancing excellence in physical therapy.</p><p>For more information about our physical therapy services, visit <a href="https://rvnahealth.org" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://rvnahealth.org/</a></p>

<p class="ql-align-center"><strong>WestConn partners with local school districts to offer Early College dual enrollment programs</strong></p><p><a href="https://www.wcsu.edu/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(2, 177, 151);">Western Connecticut State University&nbsp;</a><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">&nbsp;</span>has joined with several local school districts to offer Early College dual enrollment programs for high school students. The expansion of an existing program was made possible through a $166,000 grant secured by Dr. Stephen Hegedus, interim provost and vice president for Academic Affairs.</p><p>The program is administered by the Connecticut State Department of Education with money from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) and is designed to encourage more high school students to take college classes. By passing college-level courses before graduating from high school, students can decrease the amount of time needed to earn a bachelor’s degree.</p><p>Dr. Becky Hall, professor of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wcsu.edu/math/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(2, 177, 151);">Mathematics</a>, is working with the school districts to bring students into the program. WestConn is working with Brookfield, Bethel, Danbury, Immaculate, Newtown, New Fairfield, and has expanded to New Milford and Ridgefield with the recent signing of MOUs.</p><p>“The focus of this grant is to make college credit accessible to more students, including those who might otherwise not pursue higher education,” Hall said. “Early college courses are a step in the right direction for closing equity gaps.”“The grant money will help WCSU offer more classes to high school students, which will benefit them and also showcase the university’s professors and courses to college-bound juniors and seniors,” Hegedus said. “This infusion of funds will allow us to enroll dozens or hundreds more students who can begin earning credit for college courses.”</p><p>About 200 high school students were enrolled in WestConn’s Early College and Dual Enrollment programs during the 2023-24 academic year. With the grant, the goal is to double that over the coming years.</p><p>For more information, contact Communications and Marketing at&nbsp;<a href="https://mailto:pr@wcsu.edu/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(2, 177, 151);">pr@wcsu.edu</a>.</p>

<p><strong>Fairfield County Bank Announces Key Organizational Changes</strong></p><p>Fairfield County Bank is pleased to announce several leadership changes across its Retail Banking, Retail Lending, and Fairfield County Financial Services divisions.</p><p><strong>Alison Wood</strong> has been promoted to <strong>Assistant Branch Manager</strong> of the Wilton branch office. A dedicated member of Fairfield County Bank for over 15 years, Alison has held various roles throughout the Bank’s retail banking network. In her new position, she will oversee day-to-day branch operations, maintain the Bank’s commitment to exceptional customer service, and cultivate new business relationships. A proud Wilton resident, Alison actively contributes to the local community as Secretary of the Wilton Singers and a regular volunteer with the Wilton Chamber of Commerce.</p><p><strong>Mariela Varrone-Wrobel</strong> has been appointed <strong>Assistant Vice President, Loan Servicing Manager</strong> of Retail Lending. With over 25 years of experience in the financial industry, Mariela will oversee the daily operations of the loan servicing department, ensure regulatory compliance, and support audit processes. Passionate about community service, she volunteers with the New Fairfield Sherman Animal Welfare organization and the New Fairfield Volunteer Fire Department.</p><p><strong>Elyssia Poland</strong> has been promoted to <strong>Assistant Vice President, Operations and Compliance Manager</strong> of Fairfield County Financial Services*. A key member of the department since 1996, Elyssia will take on expanded responsibilities in managing operations and ensuring compliance with state and national standards in coordination with Osaic Institutions, Inc., through which financial services are offered. She holds FINRA Registrations 6, 7, 24, 63, and 65, along with a Connecticut Health &amp; Life Insurance license. Committed to financial literacy, Elyssia volunteers with Junior Achievement of Fairfield County and the Women’s Business Development Council, where she provides financial literacy coaching.</p><p>Fairfield County Bank congratulates Alison, Mariela, and Elyssia on their well-earned advancements and thanks them for their continued dedication to both the Bank and the community.</p><p>Learn more about Fairfield County Bank <a href="https://www.fairfieldcountybank.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.fairfieldcountybank.com/</a></p>

<p class="ql-align-center"><br></p><p><strong style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">DANBURY, CT, January 13, 2025</strong><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">—</span> The Center for Empowerment and Education (CEE) proudly announces its 50th anniversary in 2025, marking half a century of dedication to preventing and responding to interpersonal violence. What began as a courageous effort in a humble kitchen in 1975 has evolved into a beacon of hope and empowerment for countless individuals in the community. This milestone celebration reflects on CEE's legacy, honors the steady support from the community, and envisions a future free from interpersonal violence.</p><p><strong>A Legacy of Courage and Commitment</strong></p><p>Fifty years ago, three visionary women—Alice Chapman, Mary Elizabeth Corso, and Bonnie Law—came together in a kitchen, driven by an unwavering dream of a world free from violence and inequality. Their grassroots movement led to the founding of The Women's Center of Greater Danbury. In 2021, the organization rebranded into The Center for Empowerment and Education (CEE) to better represent their commitment to serving all individuals, regardless of gender. From those humble beginnings, CEE has steadfastly championed the cause of supporting victims and survivors of interpersonal violence, striving to build a community where every person is treated with dignity and respect.</p><p><strong>Impacting Lives, Strengthening the Community</strong></p><p>Throughout its journey, CEE has been a lifeline for victims and survivors, providing critical services, advocacy, and support. The impact of CEE’s work is felt in the stories of those who have found safety, healing, and empowerment through its programs. Thousands have been educated through CEE’s prevention programs, creating a ripple effect of awareness and change that strengthens the fabric of the community. As CEE celebrates this golden anniversary, CEE renews their commitment to a future where every individual can live free from the threat of interpersonal violence.</p><p><strong>Honoring the Pillars of Strength</strong></p><p>As CEE celebrates this significant milestone, they extend their deepest gratitude to the pillars of its strength:</p><p><strong>The Founders:</strong> The bravery and vision of CEE’s founders ignited a movement that has touched countless lives. Their courage to dream and act laid the foundation for the future.</p><p><strong>The Staff:</strong> The dedication, adaptability, and passion of CEE’s staff drive the mission forward, meeting the ever-changing needs of those served. Their steadfast commitment is invaluable.</p><p><strong>The Board of Directors:</strong> The leadership and guidance of CEE’s Board of Directors has been instrumental, steering the organization through challenges and triumphs alike.</p><p><strong>The Ambassadors Council: </strong>The Ambassadors Council has consistently championed CEE’s mission, leveraging their networks and support during crucial moments to advance the mission and vision.</p><p><strong>The Community:</strong> The unwavering support and belief in CEE’s mission have been the cornerstone of its success. The community has stood with CEE for 50 years, making its work possible.</p><p><strong>The Donors: </strong>The generosity of CEE’s donors fuels its programs and enables the continuation of critical work. Their investment in a future free from violence is deeply appreciated.</p><p><strong>The Volunteers:</strong> The time and commitment of CEE’s volunteers continue to fill the gaps and ensure that victims and survivors have the resources to begin and stay on their healing journey.</p><p><strong>From 50 to the Future</strong></p><p>Looking ahead, CEE remains steadfast in its commitment to elevating the voices of victims and survivors. The organization will continue to advocate for change, break down barriers, and ensure that support is accessible to all who need it. Prevention education programs will remain at the forefront of CEE’s efforts, working tirelessly to prevent interpersonal violence before it occurs and fostering a culture of respect and equality.</p><p><strong>Join the Journey</strong></p><p>The Center for Empowerment and Education invites everyone to join in celebrating this momentous occasion throughout 2025. The year-long celebration will include various events and initiatives designed to engage, inspire, and mobilize the community. Together, lasting change can be achieved, advocacy for change continued, and empowerment provided to those who need it most.</p><p>Join in celebrating The Center for Empowerment and Education's 50th anniversary at their Annual Dinner on April 11, 2025, at the Amber Room Colonnade. This milestone event will be an evening of reflection, gratitude, and hope, honoring CEE’s founders and the incredible impact CEE has made on the community.</p><p>For more information about the 50th-anniversary celebrations and how to get involved, please visit<a href="http://www.thecenterct.org" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"> www.thecenterct.org.</a></p>

<p><br></p><p>LeAnn Rimes, the internationally acclaimed multi-platinum selling singer and ASCAP award-winning songwriter, is set to perform at the Ridgefield Playhouse on Thursday, August 7, 2025, at 8:00 p.m.</p><iframe class="ql-video" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/t5cB9lEXxdA?showinfo=0"></iframe><p><br></p><p>With over 48 million units sold worldwide, Rimes has earned a stellar reputation in the music industry. She is the recipient of two Grammy Awards, 12 Billboard Music Awards, two World Music Awards, three Academy of Country Music Awards, two Country Music Association Awards, and a Dove Award.</p><p>At just 14 years old, Rimes became the youngest solo artist ever to win a Grammy Award, taking home the title of “Best New Artist.” The following year, at age 15, she made history again by being the first country artist to win “Artist of the Year” at the Billboard Music Awards.</p><p>Don’t miss this opportunity to experience LeAnn Rimes’ incredible voice and unforgettable performance in an intimate setting.</p><p><strong>Purchase tickets here</strong>: <a href="https://tickets.ridgefieldplayhouse.org/WordVerification_Check.asp?LineType=0&amp;LineID=4715&amp;backurl=%2F%2Ftickets%2Eridgefieldplayhouse%2Eorg%2Forderticketsvenue%2Easp%3Fp%3D4715&amp;forwardurl=%2F%2Ftickets%2Eridgefieldplayhouse%2Eorg%2Forderticketsvenue%2Easp%3Fp%3D4715%26src%3D&amp;_ga=2.93330141.1312090720.1737068700-915362228.1727189977&amp;_gl=1*1q8jd02*_gcl_au*MTQyMTgyNjM2OC4xNzM1NDA2NzI1*_ga*OTE1MzYyMjI4LjE3MjcxODk5Nzc.*_ga_M21VN3HWBD*MTczNzEyNzA1NS41NC4wLjE3MzcxMjcwNTUuNjAuMC4w*_ga_NNWX5Z8R64*MTczNzEyNzA1NS41NC4wLjE3MzcxMjcwNTUuNjAuMC4w" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Ridgefield Playhouse</a>.</p><p>For more information, visit the <a href="https://ridgefieldplayhouse.org/event/leann-rimes-ridgefield-2025/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Ridgefield Playhouse website</a>.</p>

<p class="ql-align-center"><strong style="color: rgb(33, 33, 33);">ACLU of Connecticut &amp; Local Individuals to Host Free Civil Rights Town Hall on Jan. 22 </strong></p><p><span style="color: rgb(33, 33, 33);">The ACLU of Connecticut announces a Civil Rights Town Hall event from 6 to 8 p.m. on Wednesday, January 22, at the Student Center Theater at Western Connecticut State University in Danbury at 181 White Street. This event is free and open to the public of all ages. </span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(33, 33, 33);">Your voice and your concerns about Civil Rights and Liberties in a Second Trump Administration deserve to be heard. Just two days after Trump's presidential inauguration, join hosts Glori Norwitt, Emanuela Palmares, Lisa Scails, Jessica Mancini, State Senator Julie Kushner, and ACLU staff for an opportunity to get clear and accurate information from legal, policy, and advocacy experts about the issues you care most about: reproductive justice, immigration, LGBTQIA+ rights, the First Amendment, policing and racial justice, artificial intelligence, and more. Ask questions of the experts and make your voice heard in your community while learning about the ACLU's civil rights and liberties landscape in 2025. </span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(33, 33, 33);">"The ACLU of Connecticut is hosting these events all over the state, and we know Danbury is a place where communities </span><em style="color: rgb(33, 33, 33);">must</em><span style="color: rgb(33, 33, 33);"> be informed about their civil rights and liberties," said advocate Glori Norwitt, who is a host of the January 22 event. "We encourage anyone with anxiety, concerns, or an interest in how federal and state governments work to come hear from these civil rights and liberties experts. People have power, and joining together in public spaces creates solidarity and opportunities to learn about your rights."</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(33, 33, 33);">Check-in and socializing begins at 6:00pm. Speakers begin at 6:30pm. Question and Answer at 7:00pm. </span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(33, 33, 33);">Please RSVP to the free event here: </span><a href="https://www.eventbrite.com/e/aclu-of-connecticut-civil-rights-town-hall-danbury-tickets-1083081097719?utm_experiment=test_share_listing&amp;aff=ebdsshios" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 120, 212);">https://www.eventbrite.com/e/aclu-of-connecticut-civil-</a></p>