Norwalk named Tree City USA for a fifteenth consecutive year

Norwalk, Connecticut - For the fifteenth consecutive year, the City of Norwalk was named a Tree City USA by the Arbor Day Foundation in honor of its effective urban forest management. Norwalk also received a Tree City USA Growth Award for the thirteenth consecutive year for demonstrating environmental improvement and a higher level of tree care.

“Trees are real assets to our community. They are an essential part of what makes Norwalk such a livable and beautiful city,” said Norwalk Mayor Harry Rilling. “We’re very proud of the fact that we plant trees every year and have now been named a Tree City USA community for 15 years.”

Norwalk achieved Tree City USA recognition by meeting the program’s four requirements: a tree

Norwalk, CT: Haviland Garage Lot Space Closures

Norwalk, Connecticut - “Starting Monday, April 22, 2019. Fifteen spaces on the upper deck will be blocked off. After that work is completed, those spaces will reopen and fifteen spaces towards the entrance will be blocked. We anticipate about 3-4 days for each session to stay blocked. Maritime Garage will be available for commuter overflow if needed”

Norwalk Holiday – Solid Waste & Recycling (Good Friday)

Norwalk, Connecticut - On Friday April 19, 2019 (Good Friday), garbage and recycling collection for the City of Norwalk will follow the regular collection schedule.

The Norwalk Transfer Station, located at 61 Crescent Street, will be OPEN on Friday April 19th and Saturday April 20th, for normal business hours.

The Yard Debris Site, located at 15 South Smith Street, will be CLOSED on Friday April 19th. The Yard Debris Site will be OPEN on Saturday April 20th.

All passenger vehicles must display a Norwalk Resident/ Beach Pass as they enter the Transfer

Mayor Rilling: Why We Need a Community Services Department.

Norwalk, Connecticut - Norwalk is a fantastic community and I brag about all we have to offer every chance I get. From our stunning parks and beaches and excellent public schools to a vibrant downtown and beautiful neighborhoods, there is something in Norwalk for everyone.

While there is much to be proud of in our great city, there is currently something missing. Consider this: 14 of the 15 largest communities by population in the state have a social or community services division and/or a state office offering these services. The one missing? Norwalk.

Norwalk is the sixth largest city in the state, but has no official department tasked with handling community services. Various city departments jump in when and where they can, but it is not enough. Norwalk used to have a Social Services Department, but it was abandoned at the time because the State of Connecticut was providing similar services. Now, without the state having a presence in Norwalk, residents are navigating a complex maze in search of resources in their time of need.

Local nonprofit agencies in and around Norwalk serve as a tremendous resource for our neighbors.

WINTER WEATHER ALERT: First Snow Of The Season Brings Winter Weather Advisories CT, RI, MA, Except Cape

WINTER WEATHER ALERT: Massachusetts, Connecticut, Rhode Island  - Due to predicted snow in the forecast this weekend brings out winter weather advisories for Massachusetts, except the cape, Connecticut, Rhode Island from the National Weather Service.

National Weather Service Statement:

Hartford CT-Tolland CT-Windham CT-Western Franklin MA-
Eastern Franklin MA-Northern Worcester MA-Central Middlesex MA-
Western Essex MA-Eastern Essex MA-Western Hampshire MA-
Western Hampden MA-Eastern Hampshire MA-Eastern Hampden MA-
Southern Worcester MA-Western Norfolk MA-Southeast Middlesex MA-
Suffolk MA-Eastern Norfolk MA-Northern Bristol MA-
Western Plymouth MA-Eastern Plymouth MA-Southern Bristol MA-
Southern Plymouth MA-Northern Middlesex MA-
Northwest Providence RI-Southeast Providence RI-Western Kent RI-
Eastern Kent RI-Bristol RI-Washington RI-Newport RI-
Including the cities of Hartford, Windsor Locks, Union, Vernon,
Putnam, Willimantic, Charlemont, Greenfield, Orange, Barre,
Fitchburg, Framingham, Lowell, Lawrence, Gloucester,
Chesterfield, Blandford, Amherst, Northampton, Springfield,
Milford, Worcester, Foxborough, Norwood, Cambridge, Boston,
Quincy, Taunton, Brockton, Plymouth, Fall River, New Bedford,
Mattapoisett, Ayer, Foster, Smithfield, Providence, Coventry,
West Greenwich, East Greenwich, Warwick, West Warwick, Bristol,
Narragansett, Westerly, and Newport

...WINTER WEATHER ADVISORY IN EFFECT FROM 4 AM SATURDAY TO 7 AM
EST SUNDAY...

* WHAT...Snow expected. Plan on difficult travel conditions. Total
  snow accumulations of 3 to 6 inches are expected. There is also
  a low probability for a few places in the central hills of
  Massachusetts and Rhode Island to see isolated 7 or 8 inch
  amounts.

* WHERE...Connecticut, Rhode Island, and Massachusetts away from
  the Cape and Islands.

* WHEN...From 4 AM Saturday to 7 AM EST Sunday. Highest snow
  accumulations should occur Saturday morning into the evening
  hours.

* ADDITIONAL DETAILS...Be prepared for reduced visibilities at
  times.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

A Winter Weather Advisory for snow means periods of snow will
cause primarily travel difficulties. Be prepared for snow covered
roads and limited visibilities, and use caution while driving.
The latest road conditions for the state you are calling from can
be obtained by calling 5 1 1.

Connecticut, Rhode Island 7 Day Forecast

This Afternoon

Rain, mainly before 4pm, then a chance of showers after 4pm. High near 47. Southeast wind 5 to 9 mph becoming light and variable. Chance of precipitation is 100%. New precipitation amounts between a tenth and quarter of an inch possible.

Tonight

A slight chance of rain before 8pm, then a chance of rain after 11pm. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 41. Light and variable wind. Chance of precipitation is 30%.

Tuesday

A 30 percent chance of rain, mainly after 2pm. Cloudy, with a high near 52. East wind 3 to 6 mph.

Tuesday Night

Rain likely, mainly before midnight. Cloudy, with a low around 40. North wind around 7 mph. Chance of precipitation is 70%. New precipitation amounts between a tenth and quarter of an inch possible.

Wednesday

Cloudy through mid morning, then gradual clearing, with a high near 52. North wind 10 to 13 mph.

Wednesday Night

Mostly clear, with a low around 33.

Thursday

Sunny, with a high near 48.

Thursday Night

Partly cloudy, with a low around 34.

Friday

A 40 percent chance of rain after 9am. Cloudy, with a high near 47.

Friday Night

A 50 percent chance of rain. Cloudy, with a low around 37.

Saturday

A 40 percent chance of rain. Cloudy, with a high near 48.

Saturday Night

Mostly cloudy, with a low around 37.

Sunday

Mostly sunny, with a high near 51.

Victoria Justice Attends Lord & Taylor Stamford Grand Re-Opening Celebration

Embed from Getty Images

Stamford, Connecticut - Twenty three year old singer, actress Victoria Justice looking simply beautiful wearing a black jumpsuit and heels attends the Lord & Taylor Stamford Grand Re-Opening celebration back on Thursday, December 1, 2016 at Lord & Taylor Stamford in Stamford, Connecticut.

Embed from Getty Images

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Victoria Justice Celebrates Primark's Third US Store Opening In Danbury, CT

Photo is courtesy of Victoria.

Danbury, Connecticut - Twenty three year old actress, singer Victoria Justice looking simply beautiful wearing a two tone stripped top, blue jeans and heels celebrates Primarks third US store opening on Saturday, June 11, 2016 in Danbury, CT.

Embed from Getty Images

Embed from Getty Images

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Men's Basketball Holds Annual Husky Run on Wednesday

Daniel Hamilton was the top Husky finisher on Wednesday at the Annual Husky Run.

STORRS, Connecticut - The University of Connecticut men's basketball team held its annual Husky Run on Wednesday, Sept. 30 as players and UConn fans participated in the 3.1-mile race around campus.

 

Jon Gill of Wallingford earned first place honors in the run for the second consecutive year, finishing with a time of 17:45. UConn sophomore Daniel Hamilton was the first Husky to cross the line, recording a time of 20:31. Kentan Facey (21:41) took second, while Omar Calhoun rounded out the top-three with a 22:43 time. The rest of the Husky field consisted of Steve Enoch (23:24), Christian Foxen (23:48), Jalen Adams (24:59), Sterling Gibbs (25:12), Rodney Purvis (25:34), Terry Larrier (26:15), Shonn Miller (26:15), Phillip Nolan (26:30) and Nnamdi Amil (29:44). 

 

"Thank you all for coming out," said Husky head coach Kevin Ollie to the crowd before the race. 

"Thank you for believing in us. We thrive on your support."

 

Following the race, players and participants gathered outside of Harry A. Gampel Pavilion for food and drinks. Several Huskies answered questions from local media outlets, including Ollie, Hamilton and Facey.

 

On Monday, the program announced that it will open the 2015-16 season with "First Night" on Friday, Oct. 16. For more details about the event, please CLICK HERE.

GOV. MALLOY DECLARES STATE OF EMERGENCY; TRAVEL BAN IN EFFECT BEGINNING AT 9PM

Will Provide an Update to the Public at 5:02 p.m. Today

 

HARTFORD, Connecticut – Governor Dannel P. Malloy has declared a State of Emergency in preparation for the coming blizzard, which is anticipated to heavily impact the state tonight through Tuesday.  In addition, the Governor announced that a travel ban for all roads is in effect beginning at 9:00 p.m. tonight.

 

“People need to take this storm seriously,” said Governor Malloy.  “If current predictions are accurate, we will need people to stay off the roads so that emergency personnel and utility crews can get to the places they need to get to, and to make sure that our plows can keep critical roadways clear.”

 

The Governor will update the public at 5:02 p.m. this evening on the impending storm from the state Emergency Operations Center in Hartford.  The Governor is also encouraging people to monitor the media for up-to-date information on the storm.

 

WHO: Governor Malloy
WHAT: News briefing on winter storm
WHEN: Monday, January 26, 2015; 5:02 p.m.
WHERE: State Emergency Operations Center, William A. O’Neill State Armory; 360 Broad Street, Hartford

Susan L. Talbott to Retire as Director and C.E.O. of Wadsworth Atheneum Museum of Art

Hartford, Connecticut - Susan L. Talbott announced Friday she will retire as Director and C.E.O of the Wadsworth Atheneum Museum of Art after completing a $33 million renovation-the keystone of her transformation of one of Connecticut's historic treasures into a welcoming 21st-century art museum.

Talbott, who took over the museum in 2008, told the Board of Trustees that in order to ensure a smooth transition for the institution she will leave after upgraded and expanded galleries reopen Fall 2015.

"I've experienced great professional and personal satisfaction in advancing the nation's oldest art museum and bringing its world-renowned collection to the next level," Talbott said. "Looking ahead, I am eager to explore a different chapter in my life and career, and can do so assuredly, knowing the museum is stronger and poised for continued success in the future. I am proud of all we have accomplished."

Taking charge of a museum that needed repair and modernization, Talbott first tackled deferred maintenance and restoration of the Wadsworth Atheneum's historic buildings. Spurred by Talbott's directorship, the state of Connecticut awarded the Wadsworth Atheneum the remaining funds needed to complete its $33 million renovation, increasing public gallery space by more than 25% without any new construction. Talbott's forward-thinking renovation significantly increased efficiencies via the installation of a proprietary power plant and new HVAC system, as well as a state-of-the-art storage facility. In addition to upgrading the physical, brick and mortar museum, Talbott also built a strong, competent staff of curatorial and administrative professionals, strengthening the core of personnel charged with continuing forward momentum into the future.

"The Wadsworth Atheneum has benefited enormously from Susan's outstanding leadership and

Rhode Island & Connecticut 7 Day Weather Forecast

-Rhode Island-

Partly sunny, with a high near 81. South wind around 8 mph.

Tonight

 Patchy fog after 2am. Otherwise, mostly cloudy, with a low around 65. Southwest wind 3 to 7 mph.

Tuesday

 Patchy fog before 8am. Otherwise, mostly sunny, with a high near 85. Calm wind becoming southeast 5 to 8 mph in the afternoon.

Tuesday Night

 Mostly cloudy, with a low around 66. South wind around 5 mph becoming light and variable in the evening.

Wednesday

 A slight chance of showers, then a chance of showers and thunderstorms after 9am. Partly sunny, with a high near 82. North wind 6 to 8 mph. Chance of precipitation is 50%.

Wednesday Night

 A chance of showers and thunderstorms before midnight, then a slight chance of showers between midnight and 5am. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 63. Chance of precipitation is 40%.

Thursday

 A chance of showers and thunderstorms between 2pm and 3pm. Mostly sunny, with a high near 79. Chance of precipitation is 30%.

Thursday Night

 Partly cloudy, with a low around 62.

Friday

 Sunny, with a high near 79.

Friday Night

 Mostly clear, with a low around 62.

Saturday

 Sunny, with a high near 80.

Saturday Night

 Mostly clear, with a low around 63.

Sunday

 Sunny, with a high near 81.

-Connecticut-

Hartford Area:

A chance of showers, mainly after 5pm. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 83. Southwest wind around 7 mph. Chance of precipitation is 30%. New precipitation amounts of less than a tenth of an inch possible.

Tonight

 Patchy fog after 5am. Otherwise, mostly cloudy, with a low around 66. South wind 5 to 7 mph becoming calm after midnight.

Tuesday

 Patchy fog before 8am. Otherwise, mostly sunny, with a high near 87. Calm wind becoming west around 5 mph in the afternoon.

Tuesday Night

 A slight chance of showers and thunderstorms. Some of the storms could produce heavy rain. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 66. Light and variable wind. Chance of precipitation is 20%.

Wednesday

 A slight chance of showers, then a chance of showers and thunderstorms after 10am. Partly sunny, with a high near 83. Light northwest wind increasing to 5 to 10 mph in the morning. Chance of precipitation is 50%.

Wednesday Night

 A chance of showers and thunderstorms before 11pm, then a slight chance of showers between 11pm and 1am. Partly cloudy, with a low around 63. Chance of precipitation is 30%.

Thursday

 Mostly sunny, with a high near 79.

Thursday Night

 Mostly clear, with a low around 61.

Friday

 Sunny, with a high near 79.

Friday Night

 Mostly clear, with a low around 62.

Saturday

 Sunny, with a high near 81.

Saturday Night

 Mostly clear, with a low around 63.

Sunday

 Sunny, with a high near 83.

New London Area:

Partly sunny, with a high near 78. Southwest wind around 9 mph.

Tonight

 Patchy fog after 4am. Otherwise, partly cloudy, with a low around 64. Light and variable wind.

Tuesday

 Patchy fog before 7am. Otherwise, mostly sunny, with a high near 80. Calm wind becoming south 5 to 9 mph in the afternoon.

Tuesday Night

 Partly cloudy, with a low around 64. Southwest wind around 5 mph becoming light and variable in the evening.

Wednesday

 Scattered showers and thunderstorms, mainly after noon. Partly sunny, with a high near 80. Northwest wind 7 to 10 mph becoming west in the afternoon. Chance of precipitation is 40%.

Wednesday Night

 Scattered showers and thunderstorms before midnight. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 66. Chance of precipitation is 30%.

Thursday

 Mostly sunny, with a high near 78.

Thursday Night

 Partly cloudy, with a low around 61.

Friday

 Mostly sunny, with a high near 78.

Friday Night

 Mostly clear, with a low around 62.

Saturday

 Sunny, with a high near 79.

Saturday Night

 Mostly clear, with a low around 63.

Sunday

 Sunny, with a high near 79.

GOV. MALLOY ANNOUNCES FUNDING FOR UPGRADES TO MIDDLETOWN’S DOOLEY POND DAM

Hartford, Connecticut - Governor Dannel P. Malloy today announced that $2.1 million to fund repairs to the state-owned Dooley Pond Dam in Middletown was approved at Friday’s meeting of the state Bond Commission.  Funding will be used to increase the dam’s capacity, notably during severe weather events.

“The Dooley Pond Dam is in need of repairs,” said Governor Malloy.  “Especially considering the increasingly severe weather we have been having, it is necessary that we have the infrastructure in place to withstand these demands.  I’m glad we could make this happen for the residents of Middletown.”

The Class C, or high hazard, dam, located near Route 17 south of Brushy Hill Road, is currently considered in poor condition, with issues facing the spillway and water control.  About a year ago, the left spillway training wall partially collapsed, resulting in concrete blocks and slabs falling into the spillway discharge channel.  The water level of Dooley Pond was lowered by approximately three feet at that time, and must be maintained in a lowered condition until permanent repairs can be made.

Funds will allow for the construction of a new, higher capacity spillway, installation of protective riprap on both the upstream and downstream channel sections, and the installation of toe drains.  These improvements will increase the capacity of the dam to handle the water flow from major storm events and create a safer and easier to manage structure.

“Repairs to Dooley Pond Dam will contribute to both public safety and the public’s opportunities to be outdoors and enjoy this pond,” said Commissioner Rob Klee of Connecticut’s Department of Energy and Environmental Protection, which will administer this project.  “This is an important investment and we appreciate the support of the Governor and the expected support of the Bond Commission for this project.”

Mayor Daniel T. Drew said, “Dooley Pond is immediately adjacent to a state highway and several residential homes.  This repair is necessary and timely following last year’s lowering of the water level.  I appreciate the efforts of both Governor Malloy and Middletown’s legislative delegation in seeing through this important repair.”

“It is imperative that we protect the safety of our community by making these needed repairs to the Dooley Pond Dam,” said State Senator Danté Bartolomeo (D-Meriden).  “Once repairs are made to the dam, people in areas neighboring the pond and connecting streams can feel more confident in the security of their homes, and the water can be raised to a level more conducive to recreation at Dooley Pond.”

“I want to thank the State Bond Commission and Governor Malloy for seeing the value of these essential repairs,” said State Senator Paul Doyle (D-Wethersfield).   “We want Dooley Pond to be fully enjoyed by the public, and this project will enable more recreational activity at the pond. This is wonderful news for our residents.”

“Investing in infrastructure is always the right thing to do,” said State Representative Matthew Lesser (D-Middletown).  “This will protect lives and community assets.  As climate change produces stronger storms, it’s important to make necessary upgrades to our infrastructure so we can weather them.”

“I’m delighted that Governor Malloy is prioritizing funding for much needed infrastructure repairs here in Middletown,” said State Representative Joe Serra (D-Middletown).  “These are critical improvements to the Dooley Pond Dam and I am pleased the Department of Energy and Environmental Protection will be addressing them with the $2.1 million in state bonds.”

GOV. MALLOY: SIX CONNECTICUT MUNICIPALITIES TO RECEIVE FUNDING FOR LOCAL AND REGIONAL WASTEWATER TREATMENT PROJECTS

$277 Million in Grants and Loans Approved for Projects in Hartford, Rocky Hill, Norwich, Middletown, New Haven, and Bristol
Hartford, Connecticut - Governor Dannel P. Malloy announced that nearly $277 million to provide grants and loans for local and regional wastewater treatment projects in Hartford, Rocky Hill, Norwich, Middletown, New Haven, and Bristol was approved Friday by state Bond Commission.  It is estimated that the projects will create or retain approximately 5,700 jobs in the manufacturing, engineering and construction industries.

“As a result of the state’s strong financial support for municipal wastewater treatment projects, Connecticut’s rivers and streams and Long Island Sound are cleaner and more appealing than ever,” said Governor Malloy, who serves as chair of the commission.  “We want to build on our historic commitment to clean water with a strong new round of funding for these projects, which will improve our environment and enhance our communities while putting our citizens to work designing and constructing these critical facilities.”

A total of $94 million in General Obligation Bonds and about $183 million in Revenue Bonds were approved to finance wastewater treatment projects through Connecticut’s Clean Water Fund (CWF).  The General Obligation Bonds are used to provide grants for certain portions of these projects, while the Revenue Bonds are used to provide low-interest loans of two percent over 20 years for the remainder of the costs.

Projects to be funded with this new allocation include:

The continued rollout of modernization and upgrades by the Metropolitan District Commission (MDC), which provides wastewater treatment services for Hartford and several surrounding towns.
The CWF funds will support work at MDC’s water pollution control facilities (WPCF) in Hartford and Rocky Hill and allow work to proceed on a conveyance and storage tunnel in South Hartford.  A major focus of the MDC project is addressing Combined Sewer Overflows (CSOs) after major storms that leads to the discharge of sewage into the Connecticut River.

Denitrification improvements at the Norwich treatment plant.

Pump station improvements to support the consolidation of Middletown’s treatment plant into the Mattabassett District.

Continued collection system improvements in the system operated by the Greater New Haven Water Pollution Control Authority to eliminate CSOs in New Haven.

Phosphorous removal improvements at the Bristol treatment plant.

Funds for these projects will be released from the CWF once contracts for construction have been awarded and all statutory and administrative requirements have been met.

“Connecticut’s Clean Water Fund is a model of state and local cooperation that has achieved very real results in protecting our natural resources and improving the quality of life in our state,” said Rob Klee, Commissioner of Connecticut’s Department of Energy and Environmental Protection, which administers the program.  “Through this program we have made investments that benefit all of us now as well as future generations of residents.”

The CWF was established in 1986 to provide financial assistance to municipalities for planning, design and construction of wastewater collection and treatment projects. Since that time it has provided $2.7 billion in grants and loans for projects in 95 communities.

GOV. MALLOY: STATE FUNDING APPROVED FOR THE REMOVAL OF ENFIELD’S SPRINGBORN DAM

Hartford, Connecticut - Governor Dannel P. Malloy today announced that $1 million to fund removal of the state-owned Springborn Dam on the Scantic River in Enfield was approved at Friday’s meeting of the state Bond Commission.

“The Springborn Dam is obsolete and long ago stopped serving any useful purpose.  For the sake of public safety, it needs to come down,” said Governor Malloy.  “Its removal will bring many benefits, including the restoration of environmental habitats that will be enjoyed by residents and fisherman alike.”

Removing the dam will eliminate a migratory barrier to diadromous fish (fish that can live in both fresh water and salt water) and Eastern Brook Trout and help restore the runs of American shad, River herring, Sea lamprey, and American eel.  In addition, the funding also demonstrates a commitment by the state to restore fish passage along the Scantic River that could lead to federal funds for future restoration projects there.  The sediment behind the dam is also contaminated with material from former manufacturing activities at the site so if the dam failed, contamination could be released downstream.

“The Springborn Dam is the first dam on this Connecticut River tributary and is blocking runs of migratory fish,” said Department of Energy and Environmental Commissioner Robert Klee.  “When fish can get past this dam, it opens up nearly three additional miles of spawning habitat and sets the stage for a future project that will open up even more miles.  Removing the dam is the most cost-effective solution to the environmental and natural resource issues at the site.”

GOV. MALLOY ANNOUNCES HISTORIC AGREEMENT TO SECURE LONG-TERM COMMITMENT FROM UNITED TECHNOLOGIES CORP. TO CONNECTICUT

Agreement Will Lead to the Construction of a New Pratt & Whitney Headquarters and Keep Jobs in the State for Years to Come
East Hartford, Connecticut - Governor Dannel P. Malloy and United Technologies Chairman & CEO Louis Chênevert today announced an agreement under which UTC will invest up to $500 million to upgrade and expand its aerospace research, development and manufacturing facilities over the next five years.  During the same time period, UTC expects to invest up to $4 billion in research and other capital expenditures in the state.  The agreement is expected to have an impact on more than 75,000 jobs in the state.

 

“Connecticut has long led the world when it comes to the aerospace industry.  With the agreement we are announcing today, we will ensure that we remain a leader for years to come,” said Governor Malloy.  “This is a once-in-a-generation opportunity, one that will make sure we are keeping and creating good-paying jobs with good benefits – not just in the UTC companies, but also in the hundreds of aerospace supply chain companies throughout the state and the region.  UTC’s decision to invest now in new facilities in our state is a strong signal of their belief in Connecticut’s talented workforce, commitment to innovation, and determination to build a world-class business climate.”

 

Specifically, the company will:

 

• Construct a new Pratt & Whitney corporate headquarters, which it will keep in Connecticut for a minimum of 15 years
• Construct a new Pratt & Whitney worldwide engineering center of excellence in Connecticut
• Keep Sikorsky corporate headquarters in Connecticut for a minimum of 5 years
• Create a customer training center at UTC Aerospace Systems (UTAS) in Windsor Locks
• Build new labs and infrastructure at United Technologies Research Center (UTRC)
• Invest in new research projects and capital investments at Pratt & Whitney, Sikorsky, UTAS and UTRC

 

Construction on the projects is expected to begin this year and continue through 2018.  This agreement ensures that Connecticut will remain the center of UTC’s aerospace research and development activities and the home of Pratt & Whitney’s and Sikorsky’s headquarters for years to come.

 

“United Technologies’ aerospace businesses, and in particular Pratt & Whitney and Sikorsky, have long and proud histories of innovation in Connecticut,” Chênevert said.  “This agreement secures the future of aerospace in Connecticut.  It will open a bright new chapter for our aerospace businesses, for our thousands of local suppliers and for the people of Connecticut.  The investments announced today will enable UTC’s aerospace businesses to continue to perform cutting-edge research and development in Connecticut and will provide exciting new opportunities for top engineering and science graduates – including the best and brightest from our state’s colleges and universities.”

 

The agreement, which requires legislation, does not require any borrowing or payments by the State of Connecticut, and is expected to create nearly 1,500 construction and other related jobs throughout the initial capital expansion.

 

If enacted, the legislation will allow exchange of approximately $20 million per year of previously earned but unused tax credits to finance the construction, up to a maximum of $400 million.  The exchanged credits will be offset with tax reductions over a 14-year period, with the final amount based on the company’s level of jobs, wages and investments.

 

If UTC fails to meet any of its obligations under the agreement, the benefits to the company would be either significantly reduced or eliminated.  The agreement further incentivizes UTC by allowing for more exchanges as the company adds jobs in Connecticut and makes additional capital investments.

 

**Download: Investments in Connecticut by UTC – Powering the Future of Connecticut Aerospace

GOV. MALLOY ACTIVATES STATE SEVERE COLD WEATHER PROTOCOL

Effective Through Saturday Morning, Urges Anyone Seeking Shelter to Call 2-1-1
East Hartford, Connecticut - Governor Dannel P. Malloy today announced he has activated the state’s Severe Cold Weather Protocol in anticipation of temperatures in the teens and single digits on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday. The Protocol is effective beginning today, February 26th, and will remain in effect until Saturday morning, March 1st, when Connecticut will be back to more seasonal weather temperatures.

“We must continue to protect the most vulnerable members of our state’s population during these severe cold weather outbreaks,” said Governor Malloy. “I urge anyone in need of shelter to call 2-1-1 and encourage local communities to consider opening warming centers or other facilities to help people in need.”

While activated, the Protocol directs the Division of Emergency Management and Homeland Security (DEMHS), the Department of Social Services (DSS), the Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services (DMHAS), and the Department of Housing (DOH) to coordinate with 2-1-1 and Connecticut’s network of shelters to ensure that the state’s most vulnerable population are protected from the severe cold weather.

Under the state’s Severe Cold Weather Protocol, DEMHS activates its WebEOC communications network – an internet-based system that allows 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.

DSS and DOH coordinate with 2-1-1 and the Connecticut Coalition to End Homelessness, as well as working with existing vendors to resolve transportation issues for people needing shelter during the period of severe cold.

DMHAS has teams who specialize in working with homeless people to locate those who are at risk, spread the word about the 2-1-1 system, and encourage everyone to take advantage of the safety of shelters. DMHAS also works with shelters to assess and meet the needs of individual clients.

Hartford Stage Relaunches StagePass for the New Year

Hartford, Connecticut - Hartford Stage relaunches StagePass for Young Professionals, ages 21-29, for the New Year. With StagePass, for just $63, see all four shows this season over and over, and even bring your friends! If purchased by December 20, StagePass members see A Christmas Carol for FREE! (December 26-28 performances only.)

StagePass members will see each show for less than $16, much lower than any of our public prices! StagePass member perks include $1 off any drink at the bar, bring-a-friend deals for only $18 and no fees, and other special offers including talks with artists, social events, free friend nights, drink specials.

For more info or to purchase StagePass, call the Hartford Stage Box Office at 860-527-5151.

Shows included for StagePass members: The Underpants by Steve Martin, January 9-February 9; A Song at Twilight by Noel Coward, February 20-March 16; Somewhere by Matthew Lopez, April 3-27; and Vanya and Sonia and Masha and Spike by Christopher Durang, May 22-June 15.

History of Hartford Stage
Now in our 50th Anniversary Season, Hartford Stage is one of the nation’s leading resident theatres, known internationally for producing classics, provocative new plays and musicals, and neglected works from the past, as well as a distinguished education program that reaches 21,000 students annually.  Hartford Stage has earned many of the nation’s most distinguished awards, including a Tony Award for Outstanding Regional Theatre, the Margo Jones Award for Development of New Works, OBIE awards, two New York Critics Circle Awards, a Dramatists Guild/CBS Award and an Elliot Norton Award, and has produced nationally renowned titles, including the Broadway productions of Enchanted April and Our Country's Good and the Off-Broadway productions of The Orphans' Home Cycle and The Carpetbaggers Children. On November 17, 2013, the Hartford Stage production of A Gentlemen’s Guide to Love and Murder will open at the Walter Kerr Theatre on Broadway.

The leading provider of theatre education programs in Connecticut, Hartford Stage’s offerings include student matinees, in-school theatre residencies, teen performance opportunities, theatre classes for students (ages 3-18) and adults, afterschool programs and professional development courses.

HSO RINGS IN THE HOLIDAYS AT HOLIDAY CIRQUE SPECTACULAR DECEMBER 21

Program to Feature Aerial Feats and Acrobatics Choreographed to Seasonal Favorites

Audience Encouraged to Bring Non-Perishable Food Items for Food Drive Benefiting South Park Inn

Hartford, Connecticut – This holiday season, the Hartford Symphony Orchestra Pops! will combine acrobatics and holiday music at the Holiday Cirque Spectacular on Saturday, December 21, 2013 at 3:00 and 7:30 p.m. in Mortensen Hall at The Bushnell Center for the Performing Arts. Conducted by HSO Music Director Carolyn Kuan, the concert will include such holiday favorites as Deck the Halls, Parade of the Wooden Soldiers, selections from The Nutcracker, Sleigh Ride, selections from The Polar Express, and Chanukah Suite, plus an audience sing-along. The Asylum Hill Congregational Church Bell Choir will join the HSO for “Carol of the Bells” and there will be a special opportunity for audience members to meet Santa and Mrs. Claus in the lobby.

The performers of Cirque de la Symphonie are some of the most accomplished veterans of exceptional cirque programs from across the globe. They include world record holders, gold-medal winners of international competitions, Olympians and some of the most original talent ever seen, including Sagiv Ben Binyamin, Aloysia Gavre, Sasha Harrington, Kerren McKeeman, Nate Nordine, Andrew Pirozzi, Alina Sergeeva, Oleksiy Snarsky, and Vladimir Tsarkov.

The Hartford Symphony Orchestra is teaming up with the South Park Inn for a food drive at the time of year when this community needs it most. Holiday Cirque Spectacular audience members are encouraged to bring non-perishable food items to both performances. The most needed items are beans, canned chicken, canned fruit, canned vegetables, canned tuna, cereal, coffee, granola bars, jarred baby food, laundry detergent, lentils, pasta, peanut butter, rice, and toiletries. There will be drop off tables throughout The Bushnell lobby for patrons to leave their donations.

Calendar Listing:
HSO POPS! SERIES: HOLIDAY CIRQUE SPECTACULAR
Featuring Hartford Symphony Orchestra; Carolyn Kuan, conductor; Cirque de la Symphonie, guest performers; Asylum Hill Congregational Church Bell Choir
Saturday, December 21, 2013 │ 3:00 & 7:30 p.m.
Mortensen Hall │ The Bushnell Center for the Performing Arts
Ticket Information: Tickets to this concert range in price from $20-$67.50. Student tickets are $10. A limited number of $25 tickets are available for patrons age 40 and under. To purchase tickets or for more information, please contact HSO ticket services at (860) 244-2999 or visit www.hartfordsymphony.org.

The concert benefactor for Holiday Cirque Spectacular is Hartford Hospital. The HSO 2013-2014 Pops! Series is presented by United Technologies Corporation, with additional concert support from Prudential Retirement and The Richard P. Garmany Fund at Hartford Foundation for Public Giving. Generous support for the Hartford Symphony Orchestra is provided by the Greater Hartford Arts Council, the Hartford Foundation for Public Giving, and with support from the Department of Economic and Community Development, Connecticut Office of the Arts which also receives support from the National Endowment for the Arts, a federal agency.

IMAGE attached of the 2012 Hartford Symphony Orchestra Pops! Holiday Cirque Spectacular.

Come Enjoy The High-Spirited Life on the Mississippi: The Musical! Direct from New York!

Hartford, Connecticut - The Mark Twain House & Museum and the Workshop Theater Company present the exciting new musical play Life on the Mississippi for two performances only--on Friday, December 13 at 7:00 p.m., and Saturday, December 14 at 2:00 p.m. in the Mark Twain House Museum Center.

Currently running Off-Broadway at Workshop Theater Company, this new production comes direct to Hartford!  It's a musical version of Mark Twain's classic memoir Life on the Mississippi.  Hair-raising, hilarious, life-changing and violent are just some of the currents that steamboat pilot Sam Clemens has to navigate in this musical journey.  Young Sam Clemens and his brother Henry step onto a Mississippi steamboat and aboard the chance of a lifetime.  As a cub apprentice, his burning ambition propels him to become a steamboat pilot, but he soon discovers that learning the great, relentless river will be harder than he ever imagined.  Now Sam must plot a course through the dangerous currents, as mysterious as the Mississippi itself.  Book, Music & Lyrics by Philip W. Hall.  Directed by Susanna Frazer. Presented by the Workshop Theater Company.

Seating is first-come/first-served.  Free-will offering accepted.  This special presentation is a benefit for The Mark Twain House & Museum.

"Ninety-five minutes I wished would NEVER end!" - Bloomberg Radio

"Four stars!  A humble piece of theater that somehow summons the wide picture of life on the Mississippi river." - Examiner.com

Sponsored by First Niagara Foundation.

The Mark Twain House & Museum (www.marktwainhouse.org ) has restored the author's Hartford, Connecticut, home, where the author and his family lived from 1874 to 1891. Twain wrote his most important works during the years he lived there, including Adventures of Huckleberry Finn, The Adventures of Tom Sawyer, and A Connecticut Yankee in King Arthur's Court.

In addition to providing tours of Twain's restored home, a National Historic Landmark, the institution offers activities and educational programs that illuminate Twain's literary legacy and provide information about his life and times.

The house and museum at 351 Farmington Ave. are open Monday through Saturday, 9:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m., and Sunday, noon-5:30 p.m.  For more information, call 860-247-0998 or visit www.marktwainhouse.org.

Programs at The Mark Twain House & Museum are made possible in part by support from the Connecticut Department of Economic & Community Development, Office of the Arts, and the Greater Hartford Arts Council's United Arts Campaign.