<p>It's Election Day and it’s important to be prepared to cast your vote smoothly and confidently. Whether you're voting for the first time or returning to the polls, knowing where to go, what to bring, and what to do if something goes wrong can help ensure your voice is heard. Here’s a quick guide to help you navigate the process and make your vote count.</p><p><strong>Find Your Polling Location</strong></p><p>Polling places can change, so it’s important to double-check where you need to vote. Visit <a href="http://www.vote411.org/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">www.VOTE411.org</a> or contact your local elections office for the correct polling location for your county, city, or state.</p><p><strong>Bring Identification</strong></p><p>Some states may require you to show ID at the polls. To avoid delays, bring a valid photo ID, such as your driver’s license. In some areas, documents like a current utility bill, paycheck, or other official papers that display your name and address may also be accepted.</p><p><strong>What If Your Name Isn’t On the List?</strong></p><p>Don’t worry if you registered to vote but your name is not on the voter roll. Poll workers are there to assist you, and you should be offered a provisional ballot or directed to the correct polling location to ensure your vote is counted.</p><p><strong>Ask for Help if You Need It</strong></p><p>Poll workers are available to guide you through the voting process, whether that’s explaining how to use the voting machine or assisting with a provisional ballot. Be sure to look for posted instructions and voter rights information at the polling station. If you experience any issues, don't hesitate to ask for help or file a complaint.</p><p><strong>Stay in Line and Cast Your Vote</strong></p><p>Lines may be long, but it’s worth the wait. Stay in line and make sure you vote—it’s important! The outcome of this election could have a lasting impact on your community and country.</p><p><strong>If You Encounter Problems on Election Day, Call:</strong></p><ul><li>1-866-MYVOTE1</li><li>1-866-OUR-VOTE</li><li>1-888-VE-Y-VOTA</li></ul><p>For more information, visit <a href="http://www.lwv.org/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">www.lwv.org</a>.</p>

<p>NEW FAIRFIELD PARK &amp; RECREATION TOWN FAIR</p><p>Saturday, October 19th</p><p>12-5PM On Memorial Field (behind Town Hall)</p><p>The O N L Band &amp; Westchester Circus Aerial/Acrobatic Arts performing throughout the day.</p><p><br></p><p>Entertainment Sponsors: The Nicholas J. DiTullio Foundation, New Fairfield Animal Hospital, NF Democratic Town Committee, New Fairfield Mobil, Savings Bank of Danbury, and World Champion Taekwondo</p><p><br></p><p>• Over 50 Local Businesses &amp; Organizations offering FREE giveaways, crafts, games, lessons, and more!</p><p>• NF Fire Department Truck Showcase</p><p>• Children's activities</p><p>• Food and Beverages by Biscotti’s Restaurant, Moonlight Mobil Kitchen, &amp; Jesse’s Ice Cream</p><p>• Beer &amp; Wine Garden by Biscotti’s Restaurant</p><p><br></p><p><strong>For information call:203-312-5633</strong></p>

<p class="ql-align-center"><strong>US Senator Blumenthal to join progressive “Evening of Education &amp; Action” this Monday, Sept 30 at the Ridgefield Playhouse</strong></p><p>US Senator Blumenthal will join the local progressive convention “Evening of Education &amp; Action” which focuses on issues including the possible effects of Project 2025, reproductive rights, immigration, housing, civil rights, and the economy. This Monday Sept 30 at the Ridgefield Playhouse, six expert speakers will “educate” and 24 organizations will have “Action Tables” where attendees can learn more about causes that resonate with them.</p><p>“We know that people are overwhelmed. Women have died because of abortion bans. Housing is limited. The presidential election looms. We created this event so that people could feel in control; they can hear experts, ask questions, and chat with a huge range of organizations in-person,” said Ridgefield resident Glori Norwitt, who organized the event with friends Jessica Mancini and Erin Byrne.</p><p>Speakers will cover a range of important topics:</p><ul><li>Dan Barrett, Legal Director of ACLU of CT, speaking on Project 2025</li><li>Amanda Skinner, President &amp; CEO of Planned Parenthood of Southern New England, speaking on reproductive rights</li><li>Glenda Armstrong, President of Danbury NAACP, speaking on civil rights</li><li>Dan O’Keefe, speaking on the economy</li><li>Sarah Fox, CEO of CT Coalition to End Homelessness, speaking on housing</li><li>Maggie Mitchell Salem, Executive Director of IRIS, speaking on immigration</li><li>Afterward, Q&amp;A will be moderated by Karen DuBois-Walton.</li></ul><p>In the lobby of the Playhouse, 24 organizations will have “Action Tables” where attendees can learn more, sign up to volunteer, and/or donate, including:</p><ul><li><strong>Moms Demand Action</strong>&nbsp;(gun violence prevention)</li><li><strong>She Leads Justice</strong>&nbsp;(advocating for under-resourced, marginalized women in CT)</li><li><strong>Community Food Rescue / CAAWC</strong>&nbsp;(helping people and strengthening community)</li><li><strong>203 Action</strong>&nbsp;(tri-partisan community activist group)</li><li><strong>New American Dream</strong>&nbsp;(immigrant support re-education, health &amp; civic engagement)</li><li><strong>Girls With Impact</strong>&nbsp;(business and leadership education for girls)</li><li><strong>The Center for Empowerment and Education</strong>&nbsp;(domestic violence, sexual assault, bullying, separation, divorce, self-esteem)</li><li><strong>Make the Road CT</strong>&nbsp;(improving healthcare for CT immigrants)</li><li><strong>Planned Parenthood SNE</strong>&nbsp;(essential health care, abortion care, sex education)</li><li><strong>PPVotesCT&nbsp;</strong>(advocacy for reproductive rights)</li><li><strong>CT Against Gun Violence</strong>&nbsp;(gun violence prevention)</li><li><strong>ACLU of CT Rise Pac</strong>&nbsp;(defend and expand civil rights and liberties)</li><li><strong>Danbury NAACP</strong>&nbsp;(civil rights to eliminate race-based discrimination)</li><li><strong>CT Coalition to End Homelessness</strong>&nbsp;(organizing and assistance to end homelessness)</li><li><strong>Triangle Community Center</strong>&nbsp;(programming and resources for LGBTQ+ community)</li><li><strong>Ridgefield Pride</strong>&nbsp;(programming and resources for LGBTQ+ community)</li><li><strong>Bethel CT Pride</strong>&nbsp;(programming and resources for LGBTQ+ community)</li><li><strong>Apex Community Care</strong>&nbsp;(advocacy and health services)</li><li><strong>Ridgefield Democratic Town</strong>&nbsp;<strong>Committee&nbsp;</strong></li><li><strong>IRIS</strong>&nbsp;(assistance for refugees and immigrants from around the world)&nbsp;</li><li><strong>ReSisters</strong>&nbsp;(grassroots activists promoting progressive causes)</li><li><strong>The Reach Fund of CT</strong>&nbsp;(provides financial assistance to abortion patients in CT)</li><li><strong>States United</strong>&nbsp;(gun violence prevention)</li></ul><p>Additionally, ACLU of CT Rise PAC has partnered with&nbsp;<strong>Ben &amp; Jerry’s</strong>&nbsp;and will serve free ice cream, to remind everyone of the importance of voting.Attendees can also chat with current and prospective legislators in the lobby. Confirmed to join are State Senator Julie Kushner, State Senator Ceci Maher, State Senate Candidate Nick Simmons, Danbury Mayor Roberto Alves, State Rep Farley Santos, and State Rep Candidate Savet Constantine.</p><p>Attendees can purchase $10 tickets at<a href="https://www.hamlethub.com/wilton-connecticut/stories/impactmultiplying.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(2, 177, 151);">&nbsp;</a><a href="impactmultiplying.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(2, 177, 151);">impactmultiplying.com</a>&nbsp;or at the door.</p><p>Follow their Facebook and Instagram pages at “impactmultiplying”.</p><p>Doors open at 6:00pm. Speakers begin at 6:30pm.</p>

<p>The Center for Empowerment and Education (CEE) will hold its annual SafeWalk virtually the weekend of October 4th – October 6th, 2024. SafeWalk’s Honorary Chair this year is Ridgefield resident, Kathy Graham. SafeWalk is CEE’s premier event to unite the community in our vision to create safer communities free from interpersonal violence for all individuals in Northern Fairfield and Southern Litchfield Counties <span style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34);">as well as</span> raise much-needed funds to support our no-cost programs and services. Safewalk is one of CEE’s three major fundraising events and contributes to nearly 50% of the organization’s budget which is raised through private donations.&nbsp;</p><p>Individuals and teams are encouraged to walk, run, and fundraise from the comfort of their own home/communities. Choose a time anytime that weekend that works with your schedule, hop on a treadmill, walk around your neighborhood, or meet up with a group of friends and don your SafeWalk t-shirt (included with the registration fee.) Hashtag your photos to #safewalk2024. People of all ages are encouraged to participate and create their own personal peer-to-peer fundraising page to encourage family and friends to sponsor them with a donation. You can visit <a href="http://www.thecenterct.org" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">www.thecenterct.org</a> to get started!</p><p>There is also an option to register your pet. Pet registration includes a pet bandana. Participants are encouraged to walk with their pets and send CEE the photos at <a href="mailto:linda.c@thecenterct.org" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">linda.c@thecenterct.org</a>.</p><p>“CEE offers <strong>hope</strong> that your life can be different - that you can and are entitled to live a life free from violence. CEE offers resources to their clients - 24/7 hotlines, counseling, and a shelter for those fleeing violent situations who have nowhere else to go. They go into our schools to teach our youth about healthy relationships, but to offer these no-cost services CEE needs monetary support. Safewalk is one of the many ways we can fundraise to support their critical work,” says Kathy Graham, Honorary Co-Chair.</p><p>To create a fundraising team or sponsor this event, please contact Linda Cummins, Special Events Manager at 203-731-5200 x232 or linda.c@<a href="thecenterct.org" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">thecenterct.org</a></p><p><span style="color: rgb(14, 16, 26);">If you or someone you know needs support, our no-cost confidential hotlines are available 24/7. Please call, CEE is here, we believe you, and we support you. </span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(14, 16, 26);">Domestic Violence Hotline (203)731-5206</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(14, 16, 26);">Sexual Assault Hotline (203)731-5204</span></p>

<p>September 23, 2024 - The public is invited to Wisdom House Retreat &amp; Conference Center in Litchfield for an Open House celebration of the 75 years of the presence of the Daughters of Wisdom, the founders of Wisdom House, in Litchfield.</p><p>The Open House will be held from 3:00 to 5:00 p.m. on Saturday, October 5th, with official remarks at 3:45 p.m. in the chapel, followed by light refreshments.</p><p>The mission of the Daughters of Wisdom is the “seeking and contemplation of Divine Wisdom in a world that hungers for meaning, justice, and compassion.”</p><p>Originally founded in France in the early 18th century by St. Louis-Marie de Montfort and Blessed Marie Louise Trichet, the Daughters of Wisdom established their presence in Litchfield in 1949 by creating a novitiate in a rural farmhouse, a training center for young women interested in joining the order of the Daughters of Wisdom.” The farmhouse still stands on the current property. In the 1960s, as the order grew the adjacent, expansive brick building was built and later became Wisdom House, an interfaith retreat and conference center.</p><p>Through the past 75 years, the Daughters have significantly contributed to health care, education, spiritual development, and charitable efforts throughout the local region. Their work in Litchfield includes involvement with their brother community, the Montfort Missionaries at the Shrine of Lourdes in Litchfield.</p><p>Today Wisdom House is a well-recognized retreat and conference center that welcomes thousands of people, offering hospitality as well as programs in spirituality, wellness, the arts, education, social justice, and ecology for individuals, as well as academic, civic, nonprofit, and business organizations. “Every year, we welcome people of all backgrounds and beliefs,” stated executive director Deborah Kelly. “Remarks and special displays on October 5th&nbsp;will reflect on the notably rich history of the Center, plus recognition of their 75 years of contributions to the Litchfield County region, and a review of events through the decades that have honored the spiritual and charitable work of the Daughters of Wisdom.”</p><p>During the October 5th&nbsp;Open House, several sisters from the Daughters of Wisdom order will provide insights into the history of Wisdom House along with other special guests.</p><p>Between 3:00 and 5:00 p.m. on October 5th, visitors will be invited to view special exhibits created for this 75th&nbsp;celebration and to stroll through the Retreat and Conference Center and across the beautiful grounds in the rural Litchfield Hills countryside.</p><p>Wisdom House Retreat and Conference Center is at 229 East Litchfield Road in Litchfield. The October 5th&nbsp;Open House event is free. Reservations are not required but are encouraged by visiting&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wisdomhouse.org/programs" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(70, 120, 134);">www.wisdomhouse.org/programs</a>&nbsp;or calling Wisdom House at 860-567-3163.</p><p>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p>

<p class="ql-align-justify">Governor Ned Lamont today announced that President Joe Biden has&nbsp;<a href="https://officeofthegovernor.cmail19.com/t/j-l-gdlykjl-thjikyltn-u/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 113, 187);"><strong>approved</strong></a>&nbsp;his&nbsp;<a href="https://officeofthegovernor.cmail19.com/t/j-l-gdlykjl-thjikyltn-o/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 113, 187);"><strong>request</strong></a>&nbsp;for a major disaster declaration due to the historic rainfall and extreme flooding that impacted towns and cities in western Connecticut on August 18, 2024.</p><p class="ql-align-justify">By approving this declaration, President Biden is making federal funding available to affected individuals in Fairfield County, Litchfield County, and New Haven County. Assistance can include grants for temporary housing and home repairs, low-cost loans to cover uninsured property losses, and other programs to help individuals and business owners recover from the effects of the disaster. President Biden has also authorized funding for hazard mitigation measures to be implemented statewide.</p><p class="ql-align-justify">“This historic weather event caused significant damage to homes and businesses in western Connecticut, and the approval of this major disaster declaration means that individuals will be able to access federal funding to support their recovery efforts, particularly when it comes to the rebuilding of uninsured infrastructure,”&nbsp;<strong>Governor Lamont said</strong>. “I appreciate President Biden for approving this declaration, which will be a major benefit for the people who were impacted by this storm. I also thank FEMA and the Small Business Administration for working with my administration to make this declaration possible.”</p><p class="ql-align-justify">Residents and business owners who sustained losses in the designated areas can begin applying for assistance at&nbsp;<a href="https://officeofthegovernor.cmail19.com/t/j-l-gdlykjl-thjikyltn-b/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 113, 187);"><strong>www.DisasterAssistance.gov</strong></a>, by calling 800-621-FEMA (3362), or by using the&nbsp;<a href="https://officeofthegovernor.cmail19.com/t/j-l-gdlykjl-thjikyltn-q/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 113, 187);"><strong>FEMA app</strong></a>. Anyone using a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, can give FEMA the number for that service.</p><p class="ql-align-justify">The Connecticut Division of Emergency Management and Homeland Security, through collaboration with FEMA and the Small Business Administration, is working to identify locations in the impacted counties to open disaster recovery and business recovery centers that will provide in-person support to help affected individuals apply for assistance. An additional announcement will be made once those locations and hours of operations are identified.</p><p class="ql-align-justify"><br></p><p><br></p>