<h2><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">"Stay home if you can and watch football. If you need to drive, take it slow, and if you approach a plow, please keep a safe distance and allow them do their jobs.”</span></h2><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">(HARTFORD, CT) – Governor Ned Lamont today is advising Connecticut residents to prepare for the first significant statewide snowfall the state has experienced so far this winter season. As of this afternoon, meteorologists say that current models indicate most of the state will receive about four to ten inches of snow beginning late in the afternoon on Sunday, January 19, 2025, and continuing into Monday morning.</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Motorists are encouraged to plan ahead and be prepared to stay off the roads during the height of the storm.</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">The Connecticut Department of Transportation’s fleet of more than 600 snowplows and specialized snow removal equipment is ready to deploy across the state. Crews are on standby all weekend and will remain active until the roads are clear of snow and ice.</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">“We’ve only had relatively light snow so far this winter, but this is the first storm where most of the state can expect to see an accumulation of more than several inches,” Governor Lamont said. “This storm is being forecast well in advance, which is why now is the time for motorists to plan ahead and get to where they need to be before the snowfall begins on Sunday afternoon. Stay home if you can and watch football. If you need to drive, take it slow, and if you approach a plow, please keep a safe distance and allow them do their jobs.”</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">“If you must travel during this storm, please slow down, use caution, and leave extra space between your vehicle and others,” Laoise King, deputy commissioner of CTDOT, said. “Most importantly, give plow drivers the room they need to work safely and efficiently. Crowding the plow makes their job harder and delays the process of clearing roads. For your safety and ours, don’t crowd the plow.”</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Winter weather presents significant safety challenges for drivers. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), in 2022 there were 498 fatal traffic crashes and an estimated 32,213 injury crashes that occurred when there was snow and/or sleet conditions at the time of the crash. CTDOT emphasizes that preparation is essential for safe winter driving.</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Tips for staying clear of snowplows</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Snowplow operators are critical in keeping roads safe during winter storms. Drivers should:</span></p><ul><li><span style="background-color: transparent;">Maintain distance: Stay well behind snowplows and avoid their blind spots, particularly in the back corners.</span></li><li><span style="background-color: transparent;">Avoid passing plows: Passing snowplows is dangerous, as it reduces visibility and risks collisions with thrown snow or the plow.</span></li><li><span style="background-color: transparent;">Give operators space: Allow plenty of room for snowplow operators to do their work effectively and safely.</span></li></ul><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Tips for winter driving safety</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">To ensure safety during icy and snowy conditions, CTDOT urges the public to:</span></p><ul><li><span style="background-color: transparent;">Slow down: Adjust your speed to match road conditions and allow extra stopping time.</span></li><li><span style="background-color: transparent;">Keep a safe distance: Increase the space between your vehicle and others to allow for sufficient reaction time.</span></li><li><span style="background-color: transparent;">Equip winter tires: Use winter tires to improve traction on slippery roads.</span></li><li><span style="background-color: transparent;">Stay updated: Check weather reports and road conditions before traveling. Consider delaying trips if conditions are hazardous. Visit </span><a href="https://officeofthegovernor.cmail19.com/t/j-l-wlikykl-tlluktttuu-u/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">CTroads.org</a><span style="background-color: transparent;"> for real-time traffic and road conditions.</span></li><li><span style="background-color: transparent;">Prepare an emergency kit: Carry essentials such as blankets, water, snacks, a flashlight, and a first aid kit in your vehicle.</span></li><li><span style="background-color: transparent;">Never drive impaired: Driving impaired is illegal and endangers everyone on the road.</span></li></ul><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">For additional information on snowplow awareness and winter driving tips, visit </span><a href="https://officeofthegovernor.cmail19.com/t/j-l-wlikykl-tlluktttuu-o/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204); background-color: transparent;">www.nhtsa.gov/winter-driving-tips</a><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">.</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">To subscribe to alerts from Connecticut’s emergency notification system, visit </span><a href="https://officeofthegovernor.cmail19.com/t/j-l-wlikykl-tlluktttuu-b/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204); background-color: transparent;">ct.gov/ctalert</a><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">.</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">&nbsp;</span></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><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Martha Stewart, lifestyle icon and renowned animal lover, has once again highlighted the beauty of pet adoption by welcoming a silver-shaded Persian cat named Magnolia into her home. Magnolia’s journey, facilitated by the local Bedford Hills, NY, non-profit Rock ‘N Rescue, shows the heartwarming impact of finding a forever family for rescue animals.</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Rock ‘N Rescue proudly announced on Instagram that their first adoption of 2025 was none other than Magnolia, once named Angel, rescued from NYC Animal Care Centers. Now, Magnolia is thriving at Cantitoe Corners, Martha’s picturesque farm. “This kitty hit the literal catnip pot!” shared Rock ‘N Rescue, who celebrate finding extraordinary homes for their rescues.</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Martha detailed her experience on Instagram @</span><a href="https://www.instagram.com/marthastewartblog/#" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">marthastewartblog</a><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;"> sharing her admiration for Rock ‘N Rescue and encouraging others to adopt pets: “I urge anyone looking for a pet to check out local rescues and shelters – there are so many desirable and wonderful animals waiting for homes.”</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Here’s Martha’s detailed account of Magnolia’s adoption journey and her glowing endorsement of Rock ‘N Rescue:</span></p><ol><li><span style="background-color: transparent;">A Visit to Rock ‘N Rescue: Martha was drawn to Rock ‘N Rescue for their dedication to pet adoption and therapy work with animals.</span></li><li><span style="background-color: transparent;">Meeting Juli Cialone: Martha spent time with the non-profit’s founder and executive director, Juli Cialone, whose passion for rehoming pets is inspiring.</span></li><li><span style="background-color: transparent;">Therapeutic Partnerships: Foster coordinator Kathleen Birmingham shared how Rock ‘N Rescue uses cats like Scooter, a therapy office feline, for emotional support.</span></li><li><span style="background-color: transparent;">Comprehensive Care: Magnolia, like all animals at the facility, underwent medical evaluations and temperament testing to ensure a successful placement.</span></li><li><span style="background-color: transparent;">Beyond Cats: While specializing in cats, Rock ‘N Rescue also finds homes for dogs, birds, rabbits, and other small animals.</span></li><li><span style="background-color: transparent;">The “Meet and Greet” Rooms: These cozy spaces allowed Martha to interact with Magnolia and confirm the feline’s calm and friendly nature.</span></li><li><span style="background-color: transparent;">First Impressions: Magnolia captured Martha’s heart in a “cuddle” room filled with natural light and views of the outside world.</span></li><li><span style="background-color: transparent;">A New Home: Magnolia is now adjusting to life at Cantitoe Corners, where she joins Martha’s menagerie.</span></li><li><span style="background-color: transparent;">Persian Elegance: Martha highlighted Magnolia’s breed traits, including her beautiful copper eyes and plush coat.</span></li><li><span style="background-color: transparent;">Settling In: Magnolia is acclimating well and becoming part of the Stewart family, fulfilling the mission of rescue organizations like Rock ‘N Rescue.</span></li></ol><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Rock ‘N Rescue specializes in connecting families with happy, healthy pets that can also serve therapeutic purposes. While cats are their focus, they work tirelessly to find homes for a variety of animals.</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Martha’s Instagram post concludes with,"Pet adoption... it’s a very good thing."</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Learn more about Rock ‘N Rescue and how to adopt your new best friend at</span><a href="https://www.rocknrescue.org/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204); background-color: transparent;"> rocknrescue.org</a><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">.</span></p>

<p><strong>Step Up Your Pickleball Game with Expert Tips and Injury Prevention</strong></p><p>Calling all pickleball enthusiasts! On <strong>Wednesday, January 29, 2025, at 3:00 PM</strong>, the Mark Twain Library in Redding will host an engaging session on improving your pickleball performance and staying injury-free. This event is co-sponsored by Redding’s Heritage Center and is tailored for players of all skill levels.</p><p>The session, <em>Step Up Your Pickleball Game: Performance Tips &amp; Injury Prevention</em>, will feature two distinguished experts:</p><ul><li><strong>Dr. Allan Rosenthal (“Dr. Pickleball”)</strong>, a board-certified specialist in podiatric sports medicine, brings years of experience treating athletes of all levels. As a sports podiatrist, certified pickleball instructor, and consultant to Tyrol Pickleball Shoes, Dr. Rosenthal is a trusted authority on injury prevention, proper footwear, and enhancing player performance.</li><li><strong>Gigi Weiss, MSPT, LSVT BIG, CADDCT, CDP, AIB-VR</strong>, RVNAhealth Senior Director of Community Rehabilitative Services, will offer insights on tailored exercises and strategies to help players stay active and injury-free.</li></ul><p>This informative session will cover essential topics, including:</p><ul><li>Injury prevention techniques.</li><li>Skill development tips to elevate your game.</li><li>Selecting the right footwear for optimal performance.</li><li>Targeted exercises to support strength and safety on the court.</li></ul><p>Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned player, this program promises practical advice and expert guidance to keep you playing your best.</p><p><strong>Registration is required.</strong> To learn more and sign up, visit: <a href="https://marktwainlibrary.org/events/step-up-your-pickleball-game-injury-prevention-performance-tips/?fbclid=IwY2xjawH3Ob1leHRuA2FlbQIxMQABHfZEM-qPsMUpmYuFy16DDFfQliGAgdA0QY7x-oAm4NeCROxNUg5BBlcvQA_aem_0C8JoUg---0ylPpucyIABA" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Mark Twain Library - Step Up Your Pickleball Game</a>.</p><p>Don’t miss this opportunity to enhance your pickleball game while staying healthy and active!</p>

<p class="ql-align-justify">January 16, 2025: Fairfield County Bank is pleased to announce the recent appointment of Jennifer Cutrali to Executive Vice President of Credit Administration, following the retirement of Miguel Calderon, former Credit Administration Executive Vice President.</p><p class="ql-align-justify">Ms. Cutrali joined Fairfield County Bank in 2020 as Vice President, Credit Administration Manager. In this role, she was responsible for assisting with commercial loan underwriting, loan closings and enacting various operational initiatives to streamline critical functions of the Credit Administration department. As Executive Vice President, she will be responsible for the management and coordination of day-to-day activities of the Credit Administration team as well as leading closing, reporting, appraisal management, audits, and annual reviews of the department.</p><p class="ql-align-justify">“Jennifer has worked ardently over the last four years to continuously improve her department’s efficacy and efficiency,” said Fairfield County Bank CEO David Schneider. “We are very excited to welcome her to the Executive Team and look forward to the benefit her local knowledge and vast expertise will bring to our clients.”</p><p class="ql-align-justify">Ms. Cutrali received her MBA in Finance as well as a Bachelor of Science from Southern Connecticut State University. She has completed the Women’s Leadership Program at the Yale School of Management and the Risk Management Association |Texas A&amp;M Executive Risk Management Program. She also received the 2023 New Leaders in Banking award from the Connecticut Bankers Association.</p><p class="ql-align-justify">Jennifer is deeply involved in her community. She volunteers her time to the Housatonic Community College Foundation as Board Member and Treasurer, where she leads both the Finance and Investment committees. She is Chairperson of the Fair Rent Commission for the City of Shelton. In addition, Ms. Cutrali is a member of the Environmental Bankers Association and the Risk Management Association where she serves on the Women in Risk and Assurance Committee.</p>

<p><strong>Hi, Redding! Please find the latest Redding community update from First Selectwoman, Julia Pemberton </strong></p><p>Today, January 15, 2025 marks the 96th Birthday of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.</p><p>Dr. King was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1964 for his commitment to nonviolent social change and his leadership of the Civil Rights Movement. In a time of growing economic inequality and social division, let his legacy inspire us to build a peaceful, sustainable, tolerant, and more equitable world.</p><p>On <strong>Monday, January 20th</strong>, Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, Town of Redding offices and the Transfer Station will be closed. Redding, Easton, and Region 9 schools (Joel Barlow High School) are also closed.</p><p>I encourage you to take a few minutes to read on, get to know a little bit about our new Board of Selectmen member, find background information about the upcoming Special Town Meeting on <strong>Monday, January 20th</strong> at <strong>6:30 PM</strong> at Town Hall, and discover the latest updates on recycling. I recently learned that I shouldn't place my regular batteries in the household trash!</p><p>Enjoy the rest of your week!</p><p><strong>- Julia Pemberton</strong></p><p><a href="https://townofreddingct.org/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Visit the Town of Redding website for a calendar of Board/Commission meetings.</a></p><h3>Welcome Diana Carlino</h3><p>The Board of Selectmen welcomed <strong>Diana Carlino</strong> last week, appointing her to fill the vacancy created by Peg O'Donnell's departure. Diana was sworn in by Town Clerk <strong>Michele Grande</strong>.</p><p>Please join me in congratulating Diana Carlino. We are fortunate to have her bring her character, experience, and capabilities to this important role.</p><p>A Redding resident since 2016, Diana has served as an elected member of the <strong>Zoning Commission</strong>, as a <strong>Trail Tender</strong> for the Redding Land Trust, and on the <strong>Mark Twain Library Programming Committee</strong>. Before moving to Redding, she lived in Bethel, where she was elected to the <strong>Board of Assessment Appeals</strong> and served as Secretary of the <strong>Insurance and Pension Committee</strong>.</p><p>Diana has also been the Chair of the <strong>Redding Democratic Town Committee</strong> and worked on committees to elect Rep. <strong>Raghib Allie-Brennan</strong>, <strong>Steven DeMoura</strong>, and <strong>Candace Faye</strong> to the State Assembly.</p><p>Professionally, Diana is an <strong>attorney</strong> and <strong>Partner</strong> at <strong>Newfield, Biondo &amp; Carlino, LLC</strong> in Norwalk, where she represents healthcare providers in litigation and licensing matters.</p><p>Diana enjoys volunteering as a Coach with <strong>Vermont Adaptive</strong>, teaching people with disabilities to ski, and serving as a <strong>“Judge”</strong> for the <strong>Civics First Mock Trial Competition</strong>.</p><p>Originally from <strong>North Salem, NY</strong>, Diana holds a <strong>Juris Doctorate</strong> from <strong>Pace University School of Law</strong> and a bachelor’s degree in <strong>Political Science</strong> and <strong>Sociology</strong> from the <strong>University of Vermont</strong>.</p><h3>Town Budget 2025-2026</h3><p>The <strong>Board of Selectmen's</strong> first budget workshop took place last Friday at Town Hall, where each department head presented their proposals for the upcoming fiscal year. Diana was present from the beginning of this process, gaining valuable insights into our local government's operations.</p><p>As we continue to work on the budget to present to voters in May, we encourage your participation. Please attend future meetings and share your thoughts during the public comment portion.</p><h3>Special Town Meeting</h3><p>On <strong>Tuesday, January 21st</strong>, a <strong>Special Town Meeting</strong> will be held at <strong>6:30 PM</strong> in the <strong>Town Hall Hearing Room</strong>. The meeting will discuss a request by The <strong>Nature Conservancy</strong> (TNC) for an easement over the Town's <strong>Bruzelius Trail</strong> to provide access to the 100-acre <strong>Granskog property</strong>.</p><h4>Background</h4><p>The Town of Redding has historically partnered with TNC to protect lands of conservation concern. TNC now seeks an easement to provide public access to a previously undeveloped 100-acre parcel.</p><p>A <strong>State of Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection</strong> grant of $1.1 million will fund the purchase of this land, conditioned on securing public access via the Bruzelius Trail.</p><p>The <strong>Granskog property</strong> is part of a contiguous 15,300-acre network of protected open space and forest. It will help preserve vital resources and habitats while preventing future development in the area.</p><h3>Recycling: What's In, What's Out?</h3><p>Start the new year by recycling correctly! Check out the <strong>HRRA</strong> website for the latest updates on acceptable materials.</p><ul><li><strong>Mark Your Calendars:</strong> The <strong>6 Household Hazardous Waste events in 2025</strong></li><li><strong>Download the “What’s In/What’s Out” recycling guide</strong> to stick in your kitchen.</li><li><strong>Use the Recycle CT app</strong> to find quick answers.</li><li>Join a <strong>Food Scrap Recycling program</strong> in your town!</li></ul><p>Feel free to reach out with any questions or comments. I hope to see you at the Special Town Meeting and to hear your thoughts on these important matters.</p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><br></p>