<p>On Saturday, December 14, 2024, at 12:00 p.m., the State Veterans Cemetery in Middletown, Connecticut, will become a place of reflection and gratitude as the annual Wreaths Across America event takes place. Organized by the Connecticut Department of Veterans Affairs and led by Commissioner Ron Welch, the ceremony serves as a powerful tribute to the men and women who have served our nation.</p><p>The Wreaths Across America program is a heartfelt tradition that ensures every veteran laid to rest at the cemetery is remembered and honored. As part of the ceremony, volunteers will read aloud each veteran’s name as a wreath is placed at their headstone, reinforcing the belief that a person dies twice: once when they take their final breath and again when their name is spoken for the last time.</p><p>This year’s gathering invites members of the public to join Commissioner Welch, local volunteers, and families in reflecting on the sacrifices made by Connecticut's veterans. The State Veterans Cemetery, located at 317 Bow Lane in Middletown, will host the solemn event amidst its peaceful grounds.</p><p>The ceremony provides an opportunity not only to honor fallen heroes but also to connect with the community in preserving their legacy. Each wreath represents a symbol of respect, placed with care and dedication by those who understand the importance of remembrance.</p><p>All are welcome to participate and contribute to the commemoration. The Wreaths Across America event demonstrates the unwavering gratitude felt toward those who have served and highlights the collective duty to ensure their memories endure for generations to come.</p><p>For more information about the program, visit <a href="https://www.wreathsacrossamerica.org" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">www.wreathsacrossamerica.org</a>.</p>

<h3>Birding Hike at the Bent</h3><h3><span style="color: rgb(89, 89, 89);">12/13/2024 | 9:30am</span></h3><p>Look for birds and learn about bird conservation topics on a morning hike at the Bent. Organizer: Bent of the River Audubon Center.</p><p>Click for&nbsp;<a href="https://www.southbury-ct.org/events-feed/?FeedID=9348" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">the event's details.</a></p><h3>Holiday Cookie Walk</h3><h3><span style="color: rgb(89, 89, 89);">12/14/2024 | 11:00am-1:00pm</span></h3><p>Sensational holiday cookie sale. Organizer: The Church of the Epiphany.</p><p>Click for&nbsp;<a href="https://www.southbury-ct.org/events-feed/?FeedID=9572" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">the event's details.</a></p><h3>National Wreaths Across America Day</h3><h3><span style="color: rgb(89, 89, 89);">12/14/2024 | 12:00pm</span></h3><p>Remember, Honor and Teach Wreaths Across America. Organizers: American Legion Post 147.</p><p>Click for&nbsp;<a href="https://www.southbury-ct.org/events-feed/?FeedID=9547" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">the event's details.</a></p><h3>Santa is Coming</h3><h3><span style="color: rgb(89, 89, 89);">12/15/2024 | 1:00-3:00pm</span></h3><p>Smile for Santa and your camera at historic Bullet Hill School. Organizers: Southbury Historical Society.</p><p>Click for&nbsp;<a href="https://www.southbury-ct.org/events-feed/?FeedID=9518" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">the event's details.</a></p><h3>ONGOING</h3><h3>Letters to Santa</h3><h3><span style="color: rgb(89, 89, 89);">Submit by December 12, 2024</span></h3><p>If your child writes to Santa Claus, Santa will return a letter to your child! Organizers: Southbury Parks and Recreation.</p><p>Click for&nbsp;<a href="https://southburyct.myrec.com/info/activities/program_details.aspx?ProgramID=29886" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">the event's details.</a></p><h3>Snow Sculpture Contest</h3><h3><span style="color: rgb(89, 89, 89);">Submit by March 17, 2025</span></h3><p>Once we get a little snow that sticks, go outside and build a snowman, fort, or anything your creativity thinks of! Then submit a picture of your snowy creation to Parks and Recreation Department. Organizers: Southbury Parks and Recreation.</p><p>Click for&nbsp;<a href="https://southbury-ct.org/events-feed/?FeedID=9581" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">the event's details.</a></p><p>COMING SOON</p><p>12/21/2024 -&nbsp;<a href="https://www.southbury-ct.org/events-feed/?FeedID=9546" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Nutcracker</a></p><p>01/01/2025 -&nbsp;<a href="https://www.southbury-ct.org/events-feed/?FeedID=9579" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">First Day Hike in Kettletown State Park</a></p><p>01/01/2025 -&nbsp;<a href="https://www.southbury-ct.org/events-feed/?FeedID=9580" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">First Day History Hike at Platt Farm</a></p><p>01/05/2025 -&nbsp;<a href="https://www.southbury-ct.org/events-feed/?FeedID=9519" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">EyeRecycle Bottle and Can Redemption Popup</a></p><p>01/07/2025 -&nbsp;<a href="https://www.southbury-ct.org/events-feed/?FeedID=9573" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Winter Milkweed Sowing Workshop</a></p><p><br></p><p>View more future events:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.southbury-ct.org/events" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Upcoming Events Listing</a></p><p>Submit your organization's event to the Town of Southbury listing:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.southbury-ct.org/submitevent" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Submit Event</a></p>

<p><strong>Southbury First Selectman Jeff Manville Community Update</strong></p><p><strong>Independent Police Department Update</strong></p><p>Chief Grillo has reported that the transition to Southbury’s independent police department has been delayed due to the State’s ongoing work on technology-related details. While this was not anticipated, it will not disrupt police services in Southbury and remains sustainable within the approved budget. The transition is now expected to occur in January 2025, though an exact date has yet to be determined. The Town will continue collaborating with the State to ensure all necessary systems are in place for a smooth transition.</p><p><strong>Ballantine Pool Update</strong></p><p>On December 5th, I attended the Pool Oversight Review Committee’s monthly meeting. I am pleased to share that the pool project is progressing on schedule and within budget at this stage of construction.</p><p><strong>Meeting with FEMA</strong></p><p>On December 3rd, FEMA representatives met with Southbury’s flood recovery team to review next steps following the August 18th flooding. The team includes members from Emergency Management, Public Works, Finance, and the First Selectman’s Office.</p><p>FEMA reviewed the process for evaluating public property damage and applying for reimbursement. A damage inspector will physically review temporary repairs and documentation, while a FEMA hazard mitigation coordinator will assist with resilience-building projects.</p><p>In the coming weeks, the Town will submit documentation and continue working closely with FEMA. Updates will be shared as progress is made.</p><p><strong>Southbury Earns Silver Sustainability Award</strong></p><p>Southbury was honored as a 2024 Silver Certified Community by Sustainable CT during the Annual Awards Celebration on November 13th. This recognition highlights the Town’s commitment to sustainability, achieved through partnerships with organizations such as Sustainable Southbury and the Pomperaug River Watershed Coalition.</p><p><strong>Southbury Artist of the Year Awards</strong></p><p><strong>L-R:</strong> Faith Vicinanza, Tammy Dunn, Alejandra Pelaez Munoz.</p><p>The 2024 Southbury Arts Awards, hosted on November 19th at Riverview Cinemas, celebrated the town’s vibrant creative community. Tammy Dunn was named Artist of the Year for her contributions to fostering creativity and community. Faith Vicinanza received the David K. Merrill Lifetime Achievement in the Arts Award for her longstanding impact on the literary and artistic world.</p><p><strong>Economic Development Director Presents at CCM Convention</strong></p><p>Southbury Economic Development Director Kevin Bielmeier moderated a panel at the Connecticut Conference of Municipalities Annual Convention on December 10th. The session, titled <em>“Balancing Act: Striking a Balance Between Environmental Concerns, Open Space, and Economic Development,”</em> featured diverse perspectives and received positive feedback from over 100 attendees.</p><p><strong>Annual Turkey Trot</strong></p><p>The Southbury Women’s Club hosted another successful Turkey Trot 5K on November 18th. This beloved event supports the Southbury Food Bank, Fuel Bank, and Needy Fund, providing essential resources to those in need.</p><p><strong>Be the Light Holiday Celebration</strong></p><p>The <em>“Be the Light!”</em> celebration marked its 25th year on December 7th. Hosted at the Southbury Firehouse and Town Hall Green, this inclusive holiday event featured improvements to welcome all cultures and abilities. Special thanks to the Parks and Recreation Department and Michelle Rosen for their contributions to enhancing this cherished tradition.</p><p><strong>Thank You, Jason Buchsbaum</strong></p><p>Selectman Jason Buchsbaum officially resigned from the Board of Selectmen on December 5th after nearly five terms of service. His knowledge and experience have been invaluable to Southbury. Jason will now serve as State Representative for the 69th District. Please join me in congratulating him and wishing him success in his new role</p>

<p>Join us for our Christmas Festivities December 21st, Saturday at 6pm.</p><ul><li>All you can eat Buffet for $20.</li><li>Gift raffles and lots of giveaways.</li><li>Ugly Sweater contest.</li><li>Dance to the sounds of DJ. G.</li><li>A special visit by Santa!</li></ul><p>All Proceeds go to the Southbury Food/Fuel bank. With your Help we can feed families and keep them warm in their time of need. Thank you and Merry Christmas to all!</p>

<p>Southbury is ready to celebrate the holiday season with two beloved traditions: the <strong>4th Annual Holiday House Lights Contest</strong> and the <strong>Letters to Santa</strong> program. Residents and businesses are encouraged to participate and spread festive cheer throughout the community.</p><h4>Holiday House Lights Contest</h4><p>Southbury residents and local businesses, it’s time to light up the season! Enter the <strong>4th Annual Holiday House Lights Contest</strong> by decorating your home or business with festive lights and creative displays. This is a wonderful opportunity to showcase your holiday spirit and creativity.</p><p><strong>How to Participate:</strong></p><ul><li>Entry is free and open to Southbury residents and businesses.</li><li>Submit your entry form online at <a href="https://southbury-ct.org/holidaylights" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">southbury-ct.org/holidaylights</a>.</li><li>Include a clear video or photo of your decorated house or business with your submission.</li><li>Select your contest category when completing the entry form.</li><li>The deadline for entries is <strong>Monday, December 9, 2024</strong>.</li></ul><p><strong>Contest Categories:</strong></p><ul><li><strong>Merry &amp; Bright:</strong> Best use of lights</li><li><strong>The North Pole:</strong> Best North Pole design</li><li><strong>Gingerbread Village:</strong> Heritage Village entries only</li><li><strong>Santa’s Workshop:</strong> Best use of holiday décor (local businesses only)</li><li><strong>Winter Wonderland:</strong> Best winter-themed décor</li><li><strong>Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree:</strong> Best use of music, inflatables, and technology</li></ul><p>Winners will be announced during the week of <strong>December 16, 2024</strong>, and those who opt-in can have their address featured on the Town of Southbury’s Facebook page and website for the community to enjoy. Keep in mind that submitted photos and videos may be used for marketing purposes by Southbury Parks and Recreation and the Town of Southbury.</p><h4>Letters to Santa</h4><p>Bring the magic of Christmas to life by sending letters to Santa! Santa has written a special letter for the children, and, at his request, we’ve created a return letter template for families to use. You can find the template and more details on the Southbury Parks and Recreation website. Santa also loves receiving handwritten letters and pictures from children!</p><p><strong>How to Send Your Letter to Santa:</strong></p><ul><li>Drop off letters in the <strong>Southbury Parks and Recreation drop box</strong>, located outside the office doors at <strong>561 Main Street South, Southbury</strong>.</li><li>Ensure the mailing address is clear and legible to guarantee a response from Santa.</li><li>The deadline for letters is <strong>Thursday, December 12, 2024</strong>, to ensure they reach the North Pole on time.</li></ul><p>Let’s make Southbury shine brightly this holiday season and fill it with joy and magic for everyone!</p><p>To learn more about these events, visit:</p><p>Website: <a href="https://www.southbury-ct.org/parkrec" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">www.southbury-ct.org/parkrec</a></p><p>For Holiday Lights Contest details: <a href="https://southbury-ct.org/holidaylights" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">southbury-ct.org/holidaylights</a></p>

<h3>Southbury Turkey Trot Presented by Southbury Women's Club</h3><h3><span style="color: rgb(89, 89, 89);">11/28/2024 | 8:30am</span></h3><p>Join us for the 14th Annual Southbury Turkey Trot presented by Southbury Women's Club. Organizer: Southbury Women's Club.</p><p>Click for&nbsp;<a href="https://www.southbury-ct.org/events-feed/?FeedID=9394" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">the event's details.</a></p><p><em style="color: rgb(192, 0, 0);">Please be aware of road closures for Southbury Turkey Trot on Thanksgiving Day from 8:00 am to 10:00 am: Main Street South (from the Southbury Green to Playhouse Corner) and Oak Tree Rd (entire road).&nbsp;</em></p><h3>Southbury Police Department Annual Toy and Gift Drive</h3><h3><span style="color: rgb(89, 89, 89);">11/29/2024 | 10:00am-2:00pm</span></h3><p>The Southbury Police have teamed up with merchants of the Southbury Plaza to organize a toy drive to benefit Southbury Needy Fund. Police officers will be at the Southbury Plaza in front of Michaels and Ulta stores collecting new, unwrapped items.</p><p>Click for&nbsp;<a href="https://www.southbury-ct.org/events-feed/?FeedID=9503" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">the event's details.</a></p><h3>Photos with Santa</h3><h3><span style="color: rgb(89, 89, 89);">11/30/2024 | 2:00-8:00pm</span></h3><p>Photo with Santa to support D8 Cheerleaders Trip to the National Championship! Organizers: Pomperaug D8 Cheerleading Parents and Youth Cheer Board.</p><p>Click for&nbsp;<a href="https://www.southbury-ct.org/events-feed/?FeedID=9545" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">the event's details.</a></p><h3>EyeRecycle Bottle and Can Redemption Popup</h3><h3><span style="color: rgb(89, 89, 89);">12/1/2024 | 12:00-2:00pm</span></h3><p>Earn cash back for your recycled bottles and cans - there’s no waiting in line to put the containers. Organizers: Sustainable Southbury.</p><p>Click for&nbsp;<a href="https://www.southbury-ct.org/events-feed/?FeedID=9490" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">the event's details.</a></p><h3>Free Holiday Concert</h3><h3><span style="color: rgb(89, 89, 89);">12/1/2024 | 4:00pm</span></h3><p>Danbury Music Centre’s Community Band holiday concert. Organizers: Church of the Epiphany and The United Church of Christ Southbury.</p><p>Click for&nbsp;<a href="https://www.southbury-ct.org/events-feed/?FeedID=9516" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">the event's details.</a></p><h3>A Conversation on Grief</h3><h3><span style="color: rgb(89, 89, 89);">12/4/2024 | 7:00-8:30pm</span></h3><p>Support on navigating grief after the loss of a child. Organizers: Southbury Parks and Recreation.</p><p>Click for&nbsp;<a href="https://www.southbury-ct.org/events-feed/?FeedID=9441" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">the event's details.</a></p><h3>ONGOING</h3><h3>Donate Your Pumpkins to Farmers</h3><h3><span style="color: rgb(89, 89, 89);">Drop off by December 7, 2024</span></h3><p>Drop off your pumpkins or gourds for animal feed at farms. Organizers: Sustainable Southbury.</p><p>Click for&nbsp;<a href="https://www.southbury-ct.org/events-feed/?FeedID=9463" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">the event's details.</a></p><h3>Holiday House Lights Contest</h3><h3><span style="color: rgb(89, 89, 89);">Submit by December 9, 2024</span></h3><p>Southbury families and businesses are invited to decorate their house or business to spread holiday cheer for all to see. Organizers: Southbury Parks and Recreation..</p><p>Click for&nbsp;<a href="https://www.southbury-ct.org/holidaylights" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">the event's details.</a></p><h3>Letters to Santa</h3><h3><span style="color: rgb(89, 89, 89);">Submit by December 12, 2024</span></h3><p>If your child writes to Santa Claus, Santa will return a letter to your child! Organizers: Southbury Parks and Recreation.</p><p>Click for&nbsp;<a href="https://southburyct.myrec.com/info/activities/program_details.aspx?ProgramID=29886" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">the event's details.</a></p><p><strong>COMING SOON</strong></p><p>12/06/2024 -&nbsp;<a href="https://www.southbury-ct.org/events-feed/?FeedID=9348" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Birding Hike at the Bent</a></p><p>12/07/2024 -&nbsp;<a href="https://www.southbury-ct.org/events-feed/?FeedID=9515" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Pancake Breakfast with Santa</a></p><p>12/07/2024 -&nbsp;<a href="https://www.southbury-ct.org/events-feed/?FeedID=9481" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Holiday Celebration</a></p><p>12/08/2024 -&nbsp;<a href="https://www.southbury-ct.org/events-feed/?FeedID=9536" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Poetry/Acoustic Open Mic</a></p><p>12/08/2024 -&nbsp;<a href="https://www.southbury-ct.org/events-feed/?FeedID=9537" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Goodnight Moonshine at The Blues Café</a></p><p>12/11/2024 -&nbsp;<a href="https://www.southbury-ct.org/events-feed/?FeedID=9544" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Southbury Chamber's Festival of Wreaths</a></p><p>12/14/2024 -&nbsp;<a href="https://www.southbury-ct.org/events-feed/?FeedID=9547" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">National Wreaths Across America Day</a></p><p>12/15/2024 -&nbsp;<a href="https://www.southbury-ct.org/events-feed/?FeedID=9518" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Santa is Coming</a></p><p>12/21/2024 -&nbsp;<a href="https://www.southbury-ct.org/events-feed/?FeedID=9546" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Nutcracker</a></p><p>View more future events:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.southbury-ct.org/events" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Upcoming Events Listing</a></p>