Trumbull electrifies as more drivers go green

TRUMBULL — Trumbull is one of the latest communities to embrace electric vehicle charging infrastructure, rolling out two new chargers at the Westfield Trumbull Mall. The town’s first publicly accessible charging stations, near Lord and Taylor at the mall, was the result of a partnership between the mall and CT Green Bank. “Any kind of green initiatives are a good thing for any community,” First Selectman Vicki Tesoro said, adding that she would like to eventually see charging stations brought to the Town Hall area. Electric vehicles have gained popularity over the years, but are still a fraction of the cars on the road in Connecticut.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/local/article/Trumbull-electrifies-as-more-drivers-go-green-12796651.php

Firefighters battle 4-acre Derby brush fire

DERBY — Several neighboring towns sent firefighters to help Derby battle a large brush fire late Saturday afternoon. The fire was initially reported around 4:30 p.m. Shortly after 5 p.m., Derby fire officials said crews were on scene for a large brush fire in Osbornedale State Park, 555 Roosevelt Drive. Several fire units from Seymour, Beacon Falls, Bethany and Woodbridge responded to the brush fire to help. Seymour fire officials said it was a 4-acre brush fire.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/local/article/Firefighters-battle-4-acre-Derby-brush-fire-12796668.php

Michigan Ends Loyola's Run 69-57 in Final Four

Loyola’s dream season has come to an end as they fell to Michigan in the first game of the Final Four.The Ramblers, who were up by as many as 10 points in the second half, faltered late as the Wolverines’...

Photo Credit: AP Photo/Eric Gay

from NBC Connecticut - Sports http://www.nbcconnecticut.com/news/sports/loyola-michigan-final-four-score-sister-jean-478468973.html

Earth Day: From 1970 to 2018

The world has come a long way since the 1970s. The changes to air quality, natural resources and water have remarkably improved over the last four decades, since the establishment of the Environmental Protection Agency on Dec. 2, 1970, according to the Department of Energy and Environmental Protection. But, prior to the EPA establishment, a Wisconsin senator shaped the way for what we now celebrate worldwide on April 22 — Earth Day. On April 22, 1970, Sen. Gaylord Nelson of Wisconsin started what would later be referred to as an environmental revolution, the DEEP said.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/local/article/Earth-Day-From-1970-to-2018-12796642.php

Danbury crash led to rollover

DANBURY — A two-car crash ended with one car, carrying six people, rolled over, fire officials said late Friday. Firefighters were dispatched to exit 4 of Interstate 84 eastbound for a two-vehicle accident with rollover. Only one of the cars involved rolled over, officials said. All six occupants of the car that rolled over were transported to Danbury Hospital to be treated for injuries sustained in the crash. As firefighters, EMS personnel and state police worked to clear the scene of the crash, traffic on the highway was delayed for about an hour.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/local/article/Danbury-crash-led-to-rollover-12796618.php

Danbury firefighters unlock minivan after child locks doors

DANBURY — A fire lieutenant distracted a young girl as other fire personnel worked to unlock her mother’s minivan door that she was locked inside of Saturday. “Seemed that little Samantha pushed the lock button as her mother was getting into a different door at a public park,” fire officials said. The fire department’s Engine 22 managed to unlock the car and the child inside was unharmed.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/local/article/Danbury-firefighters-unlock-minivan-after-child-12796614.php

Reports: 1 shot in Bridgeport

BRIDGEPORT — Reports indicate one person has been shot in the city late Saturday afternoon. The victim was reportedly shot in the 600 block of Pearl Harbor Street. No word on the seriousness of the injuries sustained in the shooting. Police officials could not immediately be reached for comment or further information.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/local/article/Reports-1-shot-in-Bridgeport-12796433.php

Looney calls for Esty’s resignation

Democratic state Senate President Pro Tempore Martin Looney on Saturday became the latest and highest-profile member of U.S. Rep. Elizabeth Esty’s own party to call for her resignation following reports of her involvement in enabling and ignoring a toxic workplace. “Congresswoman Esty has long been a conscientious leader in the fight against harassment and abuse in the workplace,” Looney, a New Haven Democrat, said in a statement. “However, I agree with Senator (Mae) Flexer that if the facts of this matter involving former staff of the congresswoman’s office are as they are alleged to be in recent news articles then Congresswoman Esty should do the right thing and resign.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/news/article/Looney-calls-for-Esty-s-resignation-12796385.php

Monroe crash knocked pole, live wires down onto roadway

MONROE — A crash in town Saturday afternoon knocked down a Eversource pole, leaving live wires down and the vehicle’s occupants trapped inside. The one-car crash on Walnut Street was reported by Monroe fire officials shortly after noon. “Parties are trapped in the vehicle with live wires down,” officials said on social media. Eversource had been called to the scene on a priority. According to the utility company’s outage map, five customers in Monroe are currently without power. Though it’s likely, it was unconfirmed that those outages were caused by the crash. The Monroe Volunteer Fire Department’s spokesman could not immediately be reached for an update on the crash around 4:15 p.m. Saturday.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/local/article/Monroe-crash-knocked-pole-live-wires-down-onto-12796377.php

Forest fire danger level high for Saturday

BROOKFIELD — With the Connecticut fire danger level at high on Saturday, the town fire department is asking residents with permits to hold off on burning brush on their properties. Residents with permits from the Fire Marshal to burn brush on their property are not permitted to do so Saturday because of the high fire danger level. Fire officials said the permit is not valid on days when the forest fire danger is classified as high, very high or extreme and the resident is burning within 100 feet of a grassland or woodland.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/local/article/Forest-fire-danger-level-high-for-Saturday-12796362.php

Norwalk police quickly apprehend 2 suspects in stolen vehicle

NORWALK — The owner of a vehicle that was stolen Friday was in East Norwalk earlier Saturday afternoon when he saw a familiar car — his own. The owner of the stolen vehicle immediately followed after it and called 911, Norwalk police Lt. Terry Blake said. “A patrol officer caught up to them and initiated a car stop on Westport Avenue in the area of County Street,” Blake said. One of the occupants in the car was taken into custody and the other fled the scene on foot, Blake said. But, after a brief foot chase, police caught the second suspect. No one was injured, Blake said. No further information regarding the suspect’s information and charges was immediately available.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/local/article/Norwalk-police-quickly-apprehend-2-suspects-in-12796254.php

Stratford’s bulk waste pick up program begins April 23

STRATFORD — The town’s bulk waste pick up program is set to begin later this month. The program will run from April 23 to Sept. 26. Those interested in participating must make an appointment to have their items picked up prior to putting them curbside. Appointments can be made starting April 2 by calling the Stratford Department of Public Works at 203-385-4080 from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Friday. Each household in town is allowed to have one appointment per year during the collection period. Once all available appointment slots have been filled, more more will be accepted. All items must be placed curbside — in an organized fashion — by 7 a.m. on the scheduled date of pick up.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/local/article/Stratford-s-bulk-waste-pick-up-program-begins-12796332.php

Health fair planned in Bridgpeort

BRIDGEPORT — Free health screenings, kids activities and more will be part of the Bridgeport Community Health Fair later this month. On April, residents can head over to the Mount Aery Baptist Church at 73 Frank St. for the community health fair. The event is scheduled to begin at 10 a.m. Residents can expect free health screenings, glucose/blood sugar checks, orchestral and blood pressure checks, line dancing, Zumba and kids activities at the fair. Anyone looking for more information can call 203-334-2757.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/local/article/Health-fair-planned-in-Bridgpeort-12796293.php

Fairfield fishing derby planned for April 7

FAIRFIELD — Residents and their children should break out the fishing poles for next Saturday’s trout fishing derby in town. The derby will take place at Gould Manor Park, 740 Holland Hill Road, from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. Registration begins at 7:30 a.m. The free event is for kids ages 3 to 15. Prizes will be awarded for the largest and smallest trouts caught. The event, hosted by Fairfield’s Police Athletic League, was coordinated by Officer Scott Sudora.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/local/article/Fairfield-fishing-derby-planned-for-April-7-12796276.php

Monroe library hosts beading event for kids

MONROE — Residents can let their kids tap into their creative side with a beading event this coming Tuesday. The event will take place from 4:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. on Tuesday at the Edith Wheeler Memorial Library, 733 Monroe Turnpike, in the children’s craft room. At the event, the kids will design and place the Peler beads on the pegboards provided and an adult will iron over them to make them melt. The event is open to kids ages 6 to 12. Registration is required for this event and is limited to 16 participants. As of Saturday afternoon around 3 p.m., five spots were still available. Registration can be completed at https://bit.ly/2pWWmtF.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/local/article/Monroe-library-hosts-beading-event-for-kids-12796308.php

2 Bridgeport men charged in Trumbull home invasion

TRUMBULL — Two Bridgeport men face charges after they broke into a Trumbull home early Saturday morning and threatened the resident with a handgun, police said. Juan Rivera, 30 and Marvin Allen, 42, were both arrested following a pursuit with police, Lt. Keith Golding said. Rivera was charged was criminal possession of a firearm, home invasion, first-degree burglary, threatening, unlawful restraint and sever other criminal and motor vehicle charges. Allen was charged with conspiracy to commit home invasion, first-degree burglary, threatening, unlawful restraint and several other criminal charges. Around 5 a.m.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/local/article/2-Bridgeport-men-charged-in-Trumbull-home-invasion-12796262.php

Snow showers possible on Sunday night

Spring may have officially begun but the winter may not be done with Connecticut just yet. The National Weather Service is calling for possible snow showers throughout the state from Sunday night into Monday morning. A hazardous weather warning has been issued for Fairfield, New Haven, New London and Middlesex counties. A quick low pressure system will likely bring a light accumulating snowfall to the region overnight Sunday, the NWS said. The system will bring with it a cold front that will lead to noticeably cooler weather over the region from Sunday into Monday, according to the forecast. The NWS forecasts that the brunt of the storm will strike around 2 a.m. Monday morning, with approximately 1.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/news/article/Snow-showers-possible-on-Sunday-night-12795809.php

Fire on balcony in Danbury quickly put out

DANBURY — It took mere minutes for Danbury firefighters to get a fire on an apartment balcony under control Friday evening. A fire engine responded to 2 Mountainview Terrace — the Point at Still River apartment complex — at 6:45 p.m. for a reported working structure fire. By 6:47 p.m., fire officials reported that the fire was under control. Office personnel at the complex said there was “a small fire on the exterior of a balcony in Building 6,” in an email to residents later Friday. They said the fire was contained to the balcony and that no one was injured. All residents from the building were evacuated as firefighters worked at the scene.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/local/article/Fire-on-balcony-in-Danbury-quickly-put-out-12795197.php

First responders complete mass casualty training

There are certain skills that no first responder ever wants to use, but must be prepared for — including those needed in the event of a mass casualty incident. Fire, police, emergency medical services and telecommunications personnel from Fairfield County participated in three days of specialized, hands-on mass casualty training at Fairfield Regional Fire School from March 27 to March 29 to practice how to handle these types of situations. “The training is designed to provide first responders with the dynamic of … active shooters, hostile events,” said Bill Ackley, a Stamford EMS captain and an instructor for National Center for Biomedical Research and Training, who helped lead the training efforts.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/local/article/First-responders-complete-mass-casualty-training-12795120.php

1,000 gallons of water extinguished Brookfield dumpster fire

BROOKFIELD — Firefighters extinguished a dumpster fire Thursday afternoon on Federal Road that remained under investigation Thursday evening. Around 3:40 p.m., the Brookfield Volunteer Fire Company responded to a report of a dumpster fire in the 100 block of Federal Road. The first unit on scene reported that the fire in the dumpster was about 25 feet away from the building. A fire engine that responded to to the fire filled the dumpster with 1,000 gallons of water, fire officials said, which smothered all the burning materials. Twelve fire personnel were dispatched to the fire. By 4:05 p.m., they had all cleared the scene. The cause of the fire remains under investigation by the Fire Marshall.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/local/article/1-000-gallons-of-water-extinguished-Brookfield-12795094.php

Horse Named After Gronk Qualifies for Kentucky Derby

A horse named for New England Patriots tight end Rob Gronkowski has qualified to race in the Kentucky Derby.According to the horse racing publication BloodHorse, Gronkowski won the Burradon Stakes in...

Photo Credit: Matt Maiocco
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from NBC Connecticut - Sports http://www.nbcconnecticut.com/news/sports/Horse-Named-After-New-England-Patriots-Rob-Gronkowski-Qualifies-for-Kentucky-Derby-478403703.html

No vote yet as hearings continue on massive Shelton development

SHELTON — There won’t be a vote any time soon by the Inland Wetlands commission on the massive Towne Center at Shelter Ridge application Instead, the public hearing on an application to excavate 1,160 square feet of wetland on the eastern portion of the project and fill about another 1,000 square feet on the western side will continue. But just when that will happen was not determined following the conclusion of a three-hour hearing March 29. The development team led by Sirjohn Papageorge of Trumbull and represented by Dominick Thomas, a Derby land use lawyer, needs Inland Wetlands approval before it can file final site development plans with the Planning and Zoning commission.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/local/article/No-vote-yet-as-hearings-continue-on-massive-12794789.php

Meet the Players: Loyola-Chicago's Shining Stars Head to San Antonio

Loyola-Chicago's Final Four run has been incredible, and these players have led the way.

from NBC Connecticut - Sports http://www.nbcconnecticut.com/news/sports/Meet-the-Players-Loyola-Chicagos-Shining-Stars-Head-to-San-Antonio-478418453.html

Ansonia police charge teen in armed robbery

ANSONIA — A city teen has been charged after he pulled a gun on a woman during a robbery last October, police said. Desmond Hamilton, 19, of Wakelee Avenue in Ansonia, was charged with first-degree robbery, criminal use of a firearm, sixth-degree larceny, threatening, second-degree larceny and second-degree reckless endangerment. Hamilton was arrested on Wednesday on an active warrant. His arrest stemmed from an investigation into an armed robbery complaint on Oct. 3, 2017, by Ansonia police, said Lt. Patrick Lynch. “He approached a female as she exited her car on Howard Avenue, pointed a firearm at her then took her car keys in an attempt to steal the car,” Lynch said. He said the victim fled.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/local/article/Ansonia-police-charge-teen-in-armed-robbery-12794737.php

Ansonia police: Employees thought attempted robber had weapon

ANSONIA — City cops were investigating a complaint of an attempted robbery at a CVS on Thursday, which caused delays on the Waterbury line of Metro-North, said Lt. Patrick Lynch. Around 3:20 a.m., a store employee at the CVS at 24 Pershing Drive reported to police that a white male entered the store and demanded money from the register. “The suspect kept one hand in his jacket pocket saying he did not want to hurt anyone, leading the employees to believe he had a weapon,” Lynch said. Store employees told police the man was wearing a camouflaged jacket and brown work boots. They said the man had his face partially covered by a black mask.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/local/article/Ansonia-police-Employees-thought-attempted-12794700.php

Bridgeport police make arrest in July 2017 fatal hit-and-run

BRIDGEPORT — City police made an arrest Wednesday in a hit-and-run accident that killed an 81-year-old last June. Pearak Pha, 27, of Bridgeport, was charged with misconduct with a motor vehicle and felony evading responsibility. On June 25, 2017, 81-year-old Gasper Esteves, of Bridgeport, was standing outside his car in front of his sister’s house on Arlington Street when he was hit by a Volkswagen Passat, according to Bridgeport police Capt. Robert Evans. The driver of the Volkswagen did not stop and fled the scene, Evans said. He said Esteves was taken to St. Vincent’s Medical Center in critical condition and was pronounced dead a few hours later.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/local/article/Bridgeport-police-make-arrest-in-July-2017-fatal-12794671.php

Millennials take over Ansonia GOP

ANSONIA — It was a true changing of the guard in the city’s Republican Town Committee. Nineteen-year-old David Papcin became the youngest town committee chairman in state history, according to J.R. Romano, the state Republican chairman, and Mayor David Cassetti. Joining Papcin on the panel are Domenico Filippone, 23, a 3rd Ward alderman, as clerk/secretary, and Anna Andretta, 29, as treasurer. All three helped create the Naugatuck Valley Young Republicans earlier this year. “I think this shatters the stereotype that Connecticut Republicans are old, wealthy, country club people,” said Romano, who is from Derby. “I think this sends a tremendous message and can only help grow the Republican party in Ansonia, the Valley and the state.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/local/article/Millennials-take-over-Ansonia-GOP-12794573.php

Bridgeport to host ‘Stop the Bleed’ training

BRIDGEPORT — The city will host free Stop the Bleed training Saturday morning. The training will begin at 10 a.m. at the Margaret E. Morton Government Center on Broad Street. The free event is open to all city employees and residents over the age of 12. The purpose of the Stop the Bleed campaign is to help people be prepared to provide initial care to someone before paramedics arrive. This campaign is an effort to encourage bystanders to step in during emergency situations. The program was launched in Oct. 2015 by the White House. Now, it is a national awareness campaign. For more information on the campaign, visit www.dhs.gov/stopthebleed. Those interested in participating can register by calling 203-549-3829.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/local/article/Bridgeport-to-host-Stop-the-Bleed-training-12794487.php

Passover, Good Friday coincide in Bridgeport Observances

Friday was Good Friday for Christians and also the first night of Passover for Jews. The two dates coincide every few years. In 2015, Passover fell on Good Friday, and this was also the case in 2012. Good Friday is the Friday prior to Easter, which is celebrated on the first Sunday after the first full moon after the spring equinox, except for Orthodox Christians. Passover begins after dusk on the 14th day of the Hebrew month of Nisan.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/local/article/Passover-Good-Friday-coincide-in-Bridgeport-12794483.php

Trumbull fire station to host annual Easter flower sale

TRUMBULL — The Long Hill Volunteer Fire Company will host their annual Easter flower sale Friday, Saturday and Sunday. The station, at 6315 Main St., will have a selection of potted plants for sale throughout the weekend, or until the flowers are sold ou. The funds raised will directly benefit the fire company. Stop by Station 1 to pick up flowers from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Friday, from 9:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. on Saturday and from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Sunday.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/local/article/Trumbull-fire-station-to-host-annual-Easter-12794368.php

Ex Easton EMT charged with guns, voyeurism released on bail

BRIDGEPORT -Eight days after he was arrested on gun charges for a second time - in two states-Christopher Barlow has been released from custody. The former Easton EMT, who police said was found hiding a cache of bomb-making materials in the town’s emergency services building while he was under investigation for allegedly taking semi-nude photos of a female accident victim in the back of an ambulance, posted $25,000 bond. “He was let out on bond here,” confirmed Easton Police Chief Timothy Shaw. “But I was told he was going back up to Massachusetts where he has a number of restrictions.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/local/article/Ex-Easton-EMT-charged-with-guns-voyeurism-12793901.php

Esty met with state domestic-violence agency

It wasn’t unusual for U.S. Rep. Elizabeth Esty to request a meeting with Karen Jarmoc, president and CEO of the Connecticut Coalition Against Domestic Violence. The third-term congressman had visited the Wethersfield office at least twice before, getting together with Jarmoc and her staff on various aspects of violence against women. But the circumstances last Monday, as Hearst Connecticut Media and the Washington Post were preparing stories about alleged abuse by Tony Baker her former chief of staff who was even entrusted with a key to her apartment, were entirely different. There, in the CCADV offices in Wethersfield, Esty confessed to Jarmoc and laid out the basics of an alleged abuse scandal that by Thursday would rock the U.S.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/local/article/Esty-met-with-state-domestic-violence-agency-12793823.php

Fire heavily damages Monroe house

MONROE - A fire heavily damaged a Monroe house late Thursday afternoon. The fire broke out at the Cold Spring Road house around 5:30 p.m. Volunteer firefighters from the Monroe, Stevenson, and Stepney fire departments responded to the blaze. “First arriving firefighters found smoke coming from all sides of the house and an active fire in the family room area,” Assistant Chief Kevin Catalano said in a release. “Crews made an aggressive interior attack to extinguish the blaze before it could extend into other areas of the house. There are no fire hydrants in the immediate area, which meant firefighters had to use tanker trucks as a water source.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/local/article/Fire-heavily-damages-Monroe-house-12793694.php

State land sales could be a November ballot issue

HARTFORD — In 2015, the state tried to give 135 acres of undeveloped woodlands to the town of Fairfield. The conveyance was granted a public hearing at the Capitol, and it was eventually struck down, after the Nature Conservancy pointed out that the land was protected by a prior agreement intended to preserve it for future generations. Not all transfers or sales of public land get the opportunity for public input that the Fairfield parcel received. Later that same year, the General Assembly in a special session approved the conveyance of 16 land parcels to Bridgeport, Norwalk, Stamford and other towns. It also agreed to give a pier to the city of New Haven and continue leasing Mohawk Mountain Ski Area.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/local/article/State-land-sales-could-be-a-November-ballot-issue-12793685.php

Woman arrested in connection with liquor store burglary

MILFORD — A West Haven woman was arrested in connection with the burglary of a liquor store. Police arrested Alicia Sheremeta, 30, Thursday on suspicion of driving a man to a Wines and More liquor store, where he allegedly caused $2,000 worth of damage and stole about $1700 worth of alcohol, according to a statement prepared by Milford Police Officer Joseph Dempsey. Sheremeta faces burglary, larceny, conspiracy and criminal mischief charges and is scheduled to appear in court on April 24.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/local/article/Woman-arrested-in-connection-with-liquor-store-12793681.php

Gisele on Brady Retirement: 'It’s Not My Decision to Make'

Gisele Bündchen says she's leaving Patriots quarterback Tom Brady's decision when to retire entirely up to him, according to the Wall Street Journal.

Photo Credit: Charles Sykes/Invision/AP

from NBC Connecticut - Sports http://www.nbcconnecticut.com/news/sports/Gisele-on-Brady-Retirement-Decision--478187003.html

AAA: Distracted driving now biggest danger on roads

For the first time, districted driving is the biggest danger on the roads, according to a new AAA study. AAA’s annual Traffic Safety Culture Index found distracted driving now surpasses the menace of agressive, drunk, drugged and buzzed drivers. First released a decade ago, the index identifies and measures attitudes and behaviors Americans related to traffic safety. It found 88 percent of drivers surveyed said distracted driving is on the rise. Anything that takes your attention away from driving can be a distraction. Sending a text message, talking on a cell phone, using a navigation system, and eating while driving are a few examples of distracted driving. Any of these distractions can endanger the driver and others.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/local/article/AAA-Distracted-driving-now-biggest-danger-on-12793645.php

Hartford Yard Goats Release Team Emojis

The Hartford Yard Goats released team emojis on Thursday.

Photo Credit: Hartford Yard Goats Twitter Account
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from NBC Connecticut - Sports http://www.nbcconnecticut.com/news/sports/Hartford-Yard-Goats-Release-Team-Emojis-478388453.html

WSJ: Walmart weighs buy of Medicare giant

A year after Aetna abandoned a bid to acquire Louisville, Ky.-based Humana, Walmart is in discussions to acquire the latter health insurer, according to a Wall Street Journal report citing unnamed sources. Among pharmacies, Walmart trails only CVS Caremark and Walgreens, with Woonsocket, R.I.-based CVS in the process of acquiring Hartford-based Aetna for $69 billion to add an insurance arm. In early March, Bloomfield-based Cigna reached a $54 billion deal to acquire the pharmacy benefits manager Express Scripts. In Connecticut, Humana sells Medicare supplemental insurance as well as policies covering dental and vision care. Alex.Soule@scni.com; 203-842-2545; @casoulman

from Business https://www.ctpost.com/business/article/WSJ-Walmart-weighs-buy-of-Medicare-giant-12793582.php

Cops: Worker stole $23,000 in ‘returned’ merchandise scam

A man, who worked at a Hamden pharmacy, has been arrested on charges that took 293 items from shelves and “scanned it as a return” onto his personal debit card. Police say Jamal Heath stole $22,742.95 between between July of 2017 and January of 2018. The investigation began on Jan,. 29, when owners of Apex Pharmacy, 2380 Dixwell Avenue on the report of fraud and larceny. On January 29th Hamden Police responded to Apex Pharmacy, 2380 Dixwell Avenue on the report of fraud and larceny. Detective John Marks conducted an extensive investigation, which led to the application of an arrest warrant for Heath. The court approved the arrest warrant application. On Tuesday, Heath turned himself in at police headquarters.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/policereports/article/Cops-Worker-stole-23-000-in-returned-12793484.php

No weather worries; March going out like a lamb

As the saying goes, March came in like a lion and it’s going out like a lamb. Weather wise, Saturday - the last day of March - is the pick of the weekend with mostly sunny skies with high temperatures in the mid-50s. Easter Sunday will start off mostly cloudy, then gradually becoming sunny. For Friday, a cold front will move through the region brining showers that should last into the early evening. In spite of the cloud cover, high temperatures should be at least a few degrees warmer than normal. High pressure then builds in behind the front with dry conditions everywhere by midnight. Those hoping for warmer, more spring-like weather will have to wait a little longer.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/weather/article/No-weather-worries-March-going-out-like-lamb-12793457.php

Benedict Arnold: America’s Most Famous Traitor

By Gregg Mangan

Benedict Arnold, despite the extraordinary efforts and sacrifices he made on behalf of American independence, is probably known best for being a traitor. In the middle of the Revolutionary War, he changed sides, abandoning the Americans’ fight for independence in return for the military rank and financial reward he received in the British army. Prior to his treason, however, Arnold compiled an impressive string of accomplishments on behalf of the colonial cause. His treason is so well known, in part, because of his bravery and meritorious service to the Continental army in the early years of the war.

The Arnold Family in Connecticut

Birthplace of Benedict Arnold, Norwich, ca. 1851 – Connecticut Historical Society

Arnold came from a proud background. His great-great grandfather was one of the founders of Rhode Island, and his great-grandfather Benedict won election as governor of Rhode Island five times. When his father Benedict Arnold III, a cooper, moved to Norwich, Connecticut, in 1730, he married Hannah Waterman King, the daughter of one of the town’s founders.

Benedict was born in Norwich on January 14, 1741—one of only two of his parents’ six children to survive childhood. He was a bold, fearless child who enjoyed physical activity. He received a good education in his early years, but left school at fourteen when his father began drinking heavily after the collapse of the family business. Arnold then apprenticed himself to a cousin who was an apothecary (an early word for a pharmacist or druggist) in Norwich, but soon ran away to fight in the French and Indian War. His mother died in 1758 followed by his father in 1761, at which point Arnold moved to New Haven and set up a store that sold books, drugs, and jewelry near Yale College.

Benedict Arnold’s shop sign from George Street, New Haven, ca. 1760 – New Haven Museum

Revolutionary War Hero

While in New Haven, Arnold met his first wife, Margaret Mansfield. They married on February 22, 1767, and had three children. Arnold became a shrewd and prosperous trader in New Haven while also joining the local militia in 1774 and being named its captain soon thereafter. In April of 1775, after learning about the conflicts at Lexington and Concord, Massachusetts, Arnold organized his men in preparation for a march to Cambridge to aid in the fight against the British.

After witnessing just how little firepower the colonials possessed in Cambridge, Arnold launched an attack to capture British artillery at Fort Ticonderoga on May 10, 1775. The attack was a success, despite Arnold’s conflicts with Vermont folk hero Ethan Allen over command of the assault.

The following fall, Arnold led a grueling march through the Maine wilderness in an attempt to capture the Canadian city of Quebec. The attack, on the final day of the year, ultimately failed and Arnold received a debilitating wound to his left leg. After recuperating, he spent the remainder of 1776 withdrawing from Canada while preventing the British from advancing down the Hudson River.

On April 27, 1777, Arnold confronted British forces under former New York governor William Tryon in Ridgefield. Tryon’s forces, after burning the town of Danbury, headed back toward their ships in Long Island Sound when Arnold mounted an attack in which a witness later claimed Arnold “exhibited the greatest marks of bravery, coolness, and fortitude.” Arnold had a horse shot out from under him and repeatedly exposed himself to fire, but despite his bravery, proved unable to cut off the British withdrawal.

Colonel Arnold – New York Public Library Digital Collections, The Miriam and Ira D. Wallach Division of Art, Prints and Photographs

The Battle of Saratoga

Perhaps Benedict Arnold’s greatest military achievement came later that fall in two conflicts (on September 19 and October 7, 1777) referred to as the Battle of Saratoga. Once again Arnold’s propensity for action led him into the thick of the battle where he received a wound in the same leg injured in Quebec, but not before he helped rally troops in defeat of General John Burgoyne’s British forces as they attempted to sever New England from the rest of the colonies. The victories at Saratoga influenced the French decision to join the war against the British.

With his mobility significantly impaired by his shattered left leg —physicians at Saratoga wanted to amputate it, but Arnold refused and later suffered horrific infections and terrible pain—he requested an appointment as military commander of the city of Philadelphia in June of 1778. While there, colonists accused him of engaging in profiteering and socializing with Americans loyal to Great Britain. One of these “Tories” was Margaret (“Peggy”) Shippen, the woman who became Arnold’s second wife in April 1779.

Arnold Commits Treason

Years of dedication to the patriot cause led to little recognition or reward for Arnold. He never received appropriate credit for his actions at Ticonderoga or Saratoga, the Continental Congress repeatedly overlooked him for promotion, and his temper and confrontational style made him many enemies in the army. In addition to being brave and hotheaded, Arnold often succumbed to vanity and greed. All of these factors may have played a part in his decision to commit treason. Charged with corruption during his military command of Philadelphia and facing a court-martial, Arnold, through his wife, contacted the British command with an offer to turn the strategically valuable Hudson River defenses at West Point over to the British in return for money and designation as an officer in the British army.

A sketch of New London & Groton with the attacks made on Forts Trumbull & Griswold by the British troops under the command of Brigr. Genl. Arnold, Sept. 6th, 1781 – Library of Congress, Geography and Map Division

Benedict Arnold requested and received command of West Point from Commander-in-Chief, George Washington. He arrived there on August 5, 1780, and proceeded to weaken the garrison while feeding vital logistical information to the British. Colonial authorities accidentally uncovered Arnold’s treasonous plan after capturing British Major John André, fresh from a meeting with Arnold and in possession of the plans for West Point. Before word of the treason reached George Washington (who was on his way to visit Arnold at West Point), Arnold managed to escape to the British warship Vulture and begin his new life as a brigadier general in the British army.

A British Commander and Citizen

After joining the British army, Arnold saw limited action, mostly leading raids along the Virginia and Connecticut coasts. Arnold led a raid on the town of New London on September 6, 1781, that destroyed a number of privateering ships and colonial stores, but the burning of the town and the killing of surrendering Continental soldiers further damaged Arnold’s reputation.

Arnold set sail for England with Peggy after British general Lord Cornwallis surrendered at Yorktown, Virginia, on October 19, 1781. He returned to North America in 1785, seeking to establish a business in New Brunswick. His wife and children joined him in 1787, but a fire the following year destroyed his business. The family returned to England in 1791. Arnold spent his remaining years living on a modest pension and repeatedly petitioning the British government for additional funds and military appointments. He died in relative obscurity in London on June 14, 1801.

Gregg Mangan is an author and historian who holds a PhD in public history from Arizona State University.

from ConnecticutHistory.org https://connecticuthistory.org/benedict-arnold-americas-most-famous-traitor/

Police activity causes Metro-North delays

Police activity has led to some Metro-North train delays Thursday evening. On the New Haven line, the 6:28 p.m. train from Stamford is operating up to 10 minutes late because of police activity. At 6:30 p.m., the train service said, it was approaching the Greenwich station. The 6:34 p.m. train from Stamford is also operating up to 10 minutes late. At 6:45 p.m., the train was approaching the Riverside station. It was unclear where exactly the police activity was.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/local/article/Police-activity-causes-Metro-North-delays-12792241.php

DOJ: Ansonia man admits involvement in crack trafficking

ANSONIA — A city man admitted to his participation in a Naugatuck Valley crack ring in court Thursday and faces up to 20 years in prison at his sentencing later this year, according to the Department of Justice. Marquice Rumley, 27, of Ansonia, pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to possession with intent to distribute, and to distribute, cocaine base — also known as crack cocaine. “Rumley was a member of a drug trafficking organization that trafficked large quantities of crack cocaine throughout the Naugatuck Valley,” the DOJ said. An investigation by police showed that members of the organization shared the same cell phone to service customers in shifts over a 24-hour period.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/local/article/DOJ-Ansonia-man-admits-involvement-in-crack-12792219.php

Esty under scrutiny over handling of alleged abuse

WASHINGTON -- A former staff member for U.S. Rep. Elizabeth Esty says she was punched, screamed at and threatened with death by the congresswoman’s then chief of staff, who after being fired in 2016 went on to work for Sandy Hook Promise until this week. Esty admits to paying Tony Baker a $5,000 severance -- money she says she has since decided to personally repay to the U.S. Treasury - and giving him a favorable job recommendation. The Connecticut Democrat said she accepts blame for her response to reports of Baker’s misconduct, and that firing protocol recommended by the House counsel’s office is inadequate.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/news/article/Esty-under-scrutiny-over-handling-of-alleged-abuse-12791993.php

Defense tries to bar texts in Easton double slaying case

BRIDGEPORT - Halfway through his interview with Kyle Navin, State Police Detective Christopher Allegro was handed by associates a copy of the texts between Navin and his missing father, Jeffrey Navin, on the day the elder Navin and his wife disappeared on Aug. 4, 2015. 12:39 p.m.: Jeffrey Navin to Kyle Navin: “I'm not going home till I know mom is okay.” 12:42 p.m.: Jeffrey Navin to Kyle Navin: “Did you hurt mom?” 12:43 p.m.: Kyle Navin to Jeffrey Navin: “No absolutely not. Why would you think” 12:44 p.m.: Jeffrey Navin to Kyle Navin: “I go home and get framed for murder” 12:45 p.m.: Kyle Navin to Jeffrey Navin: “Oh stop” 12:48 p.m.: Jeffrey Navin to Kyle Navin: “I'm going to the police first” 12:50 p.m.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/local/article/Defense-tries-to-bar-texts-in-Easton-double-12791995.php

UNESCO book drive underway in April

STRATFORD — To celebrate World Book Day, April 23, the UNESCO Center for Global Friendship Inc. will hold a book drive in April to collect 3,000 books for its free library programs in Haiti, Nicaragua and Jamaica. “We strongly believe that reading can save lives and broaden our horizons.” said Angelucci Manigat Jr., executive director of UCGF. “In countries with limited access to electricity and internet services, physical books remain in high demand,” adds Manigat. For this campaign, The UNESCO Center is accepting books in English, Spanish, French and Haitian Creole. To schedule a book delivery or pick-up, call 203-981-5527. Monetary donations can be made on the website http://unescocgf.org/ .

from News https://www.ctpost.com/local/article/UNESCO-book-drive-underway-in-April-12791839.php

Derby firefighters on scene for reported fire

DERBY — Firefighters are on scene trying to get to the bottom of smoke pouring out of a residence on Oak Street, possibly being caused by a fire. The fire units responded to the 60 block of Oak Street around 5 p.m. for a report of a fire. A live video from the scene of the fire showed firefighters on the roof and additional units arriving to assist. Smoke could be seen coming from the single-story residence. A side view of the residence showed a clear burn mark on the outside of the house, near an air conditioning unit. Firefighters could be seen entering and exiting the residence. It was unclear if anyone was home at the time.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/local/article/Derby-firefighters-on-scene-for-reported-fire-12791966.php

Art student’s work mixes imagery of guns, school

OXFORD — The image is frightening. School papers lie scattered across a panel board, almost as if they flying into the air, while other papers are weighed down by the handmade AR-15 atop them. The 3-D illustration is Kim Krivensky’s response to school shootings. “I wanted to shed light on the lives that have been lost because of school shootings,” said Krivensky, a 21-year-old senior at the Paier College of Art in Hamden, who lives on Ancient Highway in Oxford. “Sandy Hook had an impact on me because it was so close to Oxford. Now Parkland. I wanted to send a message.” The message she sends was devised as part of an editorial illustration class taught by Vladimir Shpitalnik, a Paier professor.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/local/article/Art-student-s-work-mixes-imagery-of-guns-school-12791945.php

Westport water main replacement project to begin April 2

WESTPORT — The Myrtle Avenue water main replacement project is officially scheduled to begin on April 2 — weather permitting. Aquarion Water Company’s contractor, True Blue Construction, will be working on the project until mid- to late-July. Construction is scheduled to occur Mondays through Thursday from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. There will be no work on Fridays, weekends or holidays. Road closures will happen on a rolling basis, but detours will be clearly marked in advance and public safety officials will be updated on a daily basis. Motorists are encouraged to seek alternate routes or to allow for extra travel time through the town’s downtown area.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/local/article/Westport-water-main-replacement-project-to-begin-12791818.php

Tax credit program in Westport accepting applications

WESTPORT — The town is currently accepting application for the 2018 Neighborhood Assistance Act tax credit program. The program, sponsored by the Connecticut Department of Revenue Services, is designed to provide funding for municipal and tax-exempt organizations through providing a corporation business tax credit for businesses that make cash contributions. Through the NAA program, business are allowed to claim a state tax credit for cash contributions made to qualifying community programs conducted by tax exempt or municipal agencies.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/local/article/Tax-credit-program-in-Westport-accepting-12791798.php

Malloy receives lukewarm support for energy bill

HARTFORD - Gov. Dannel P. Malloy’s energy and climate agenda garnered only lukewarm support Thursday as a key committee passed the legislation while demanding major changes to accommodate environmentalists and other interests. "The bill passed by committee will help further Connecticut’s goals of increasing accessibility of residential rooftop solar, redoubling our commitment to renewable energy, and combating the effects of a changing climate," Malloy said following the vote. But despite the governor’s enthusiasm, many members on the General Assembly’s Energy and Technology Committee were less than enthusiastic as they voted to move the bill out of committee so more work could be done on the legislation. State Rep.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/news/article/Malloy-receives-lukewarm-support-for-energy-bill-12791790.php

Malloy calls out senator as homophobe

In the minutes after the rejection of Supreme Court Justice Andrew McDonald’s bid to become chief justice, Gov. Dannel P. Malloy condemned opposition lawmakers, both Democrats and Republicans, for politicizing the normal process of judicial appointments. Speaking to reporters, Malloy focused in particular on Sen. Michael A. McLachlan, a fifth-term Republican from Danbury, whom he tagged for “homophobic and biased statements” while an adviser to Danbury Mayor Mark Boughton over 15 years ago. “In point of fact, he is on record as saying to people about a gay man who worked in the mayor’s office that he, Sen. McLachlan, might go home and beat his wife on a regular basis, but he wouldn’t come in an talk about it in the office,” Malloy said.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/local/article/Malloy-calls-out-senator-as-homophobe-12791755.php

Reports: State trooper dies after crash in Tolland

TOLLAND — Reports indicate a state trooper has died from injuries sustained during a serious crash in Tolland on Thursday. The Department of Transportation indicated that the crash involved a car and a tractor trailer and that the highway was closed between exits 68 and 69. The DOT reported the crash shortly after 12:30 p.m. Shortly before 1 p.m., state police reported that Interstate 84 eastbound at exit 68 was closed for a crash with serious injury. Reports started pouring in on social media around 2:40 p.m. that a state trooper had died from injuries sustained in the crash. State police had not publicly commented on the fatality as of 4 p.m. On Twitter, several people had tweeted to the state police, expressing their condolences.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/local/article/Reports-State-trooper-dies-after-crash-in-Tolland-12791724.php

Bridgeport Dems ready to pick delegates

BRIDGEPORT - Monday night April 2nd will be an important step in Mayor Joe Ganim’s gubernatorial bid. Beginning at 6:30 p.m. the newly-elected Democratic Town Committee — 90 members, quite a few loyal to Ganim and his close ally, party chairman Mario Testa — meet to select delegates to the state nominating convention and for the 4th Congressional District and multi-town 22nd and 23rd state Senate districts. The Democrats’ state convention in May is the key event for Ganim. The mayor is hoping to receive the 15 percent of the total delegate vote needed to walk out of there and mount a primary against whomever the party nominates for governor. Bridgeport has 93 delegates — the second highest amount behind New Haven.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/local/article/Bridgeport-Dems-ready-to-pick-delegates-12791608.php

Stratford PD: ‘If you text and drive, you will pay’

STRATFORD — Stratford police will be more diligent than usual to crack down on distracted driving during the month of April. The department is teaming up with the Connecticut Department of Transportation during National Distracted Driving Awareness month to make sure all motorists keep their eyes on the road. Stratford police will participate in the “U Drive. U Text. U Pay” enforcement campaign from April 2 to April 30. “Distracted driving is a real problem,” said police Capt. Frank Eannotti in a prepared statement. “During this enforcement period, officers will be ticketing anyone who is texting or on their phone while behind the wheel.” And if you violate the state’s distracted driving laws, it won’t be cheap.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/local/article/Stratford-PD-If-you-text-and-drive-you-will-12791588.php

Embattled Hartford rep resigns over inappropriate texts

HARTFORD — Angel Arce, the embattled state representative from Hartford whose committee assignments had been withdrawn amid charges that he made inappropriate texts to a young teenaged girl, officially resigned Thursday from the House of Representatives. Secretary of the State Denise Merrill received his resignation letter. While in the last few weeks he had not attended either committee meetings of House sessions, he had not officially resigned.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/local/article/Embattled-Hartford-rep-resigns-over-inappropriate-12791582.php

Trumbull development future called ‘bright’

Trumbull First Selectman Vicki Tesoro said she is looking to ride the momentum of recent additions to the business sector as she looks to attract more development to town. In a Thursday morning address to the members of the business community and the Bridgeport Regional Business Council, Tesoro discussed the current status of economic development of the town and where it’s heading. “Growing our grand list through smart and well-planned development is essential,” she said during her address. “We have a lot to be proud of in the area of economic development.” Tesoro maintained an optimistic outlook in light of recent developments and brands that have set up throughout the area.

from Business https://www.ctpost.com/business/article/Trumbull-development-future-called-bright-12791574.php

Violence Isn't Esports' Only Hurdle to Joining the Olympics

If they are to reach the sporting world's biggest stage, violence won't be as big of a hurdle as creating a governing body, which the sport currently lacks, two experts told NBC.

Photo Credit: Getty images, File

from NBC Connecticut - Sports http://www.nbcconnecticut.com/news/sports/Can-Esports-Become-an-Olympic-Sport-476315923.html

Republicans block state net neutrality bill

HARTFORD - A bill that would allow the state to regulate the Internet in the absence of federal net neutrality rules died in committee on Thursday due to a procedural trick engineered by Republican senators. Sen. Paul Formica, R-East Lyme and co-chairman of the Energy and Technology Committee, used his authority to split the committee and allow only the four senators to vote. While Democrats have a majority in the committee when House members are included, the committee has two Senate Democrats and two Republicans. The resulting vote was a tie, meaning the bill failed. Although Formica held the vote open until 4 p.m., it was unlikely the two Republican senators — Formica and Sen. Tony Hwang, R-Fairfield — would change their “no” votes.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/local/article/Republicans-block-state-net-neutrality-bill-12791381.php

Police: Bridgeport high school locked down after teacher threatens killing spree

BRIDGEPORT - Harding High School was put in lockdown Wednesday after police said a school employee threatened to go on a killing spree. Carl Lemon, 63, an in-school suspension coordinator, was charged with second-degree threatening and breach of peace and was later released on $5,000 bond. Police said shortly after noon officers were dispatched to the high school for a threatening situation. The school’s principal, Dane Brown, told officer that Lemon had made threatening statements to another teacher. Police said Lemon stated that he hates white people and couldn’t wait “for the panthers to give the OK and a revolution begins because he will execute every white man he gets his hands on.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/local/article/Police-Bridgeport-high-school-locked-down-after-12791327.php

Give Peas a Chance - Monday, April 2 at 6:30 p.m.

Parents and caregivers, if you have a picky eater, this program is for you. Karen Samela, author of Give Peas a Chance will talk about her guide to feeding your picky eater.

from Newington, CT - News Flash http://www.newingtonct.gov/CivicAlerts.aspx?aid=389

Stratford: USCG boat safety class April 7

STRATFORD — The U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary Flotilla 24-2 is offering a course, About Boating Safely, on Saturday, April 7, 2018. The cost is $50 per student. Registration is required. To register, email Flotilla242@comcast.net or call 203-381-2085. Flotilla 24-2 is located at 1 Birdseye Street, Stratford, at the Birdseye town boat ramp. About Boating Safely is an 8-hour course, starting at 8 a.m. Successful completion satisfies the Connecticut licensing requirements for both boats and personal watercraft. Instruction will cover all the basic topics involved in the safe operation of recreational boating and seamanship. All students will need to obtain a state of CT Conservation ID Number before taking the ABS/PWC class.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/local/article/Stratford-USCG-boat-safety-class-April-7-12791055.php

BRBC looking for new president

The Bridgeport Regional Business Council is on the market for a new president. The organization announced Thursday it has begun searching for a successor to Mickey Herbert, who has been in the role for less than two years. He took over following the retirement of Paul Timpanelli. According to a release, the search is in anticipation of Herbert’s expiring two-year term as the BRBC’s president and CEO. “Mickey has done an amazing job leading the BRBC and beginning its transformation in a time of great change,” said Kate Hampford Donahue, president of Hampford Research, Inc. and chairman of the BRBC board of directors. “We look forward to finding just the right leader to deal with new challenges and take us to the next level.

from Business https://www.ctpost.com/business/article/BRBC-looking-for-new-president-12790923.php

Boston Officials to Vote on Renaming of Famous Yawkey Way

After a controversial debate, Boston's Public Improvement Commission will vote Thursday to change the name of an iconic street adjacent to Fenway Park.

from NBC Connecticut - Sports http://www.nbcconnecticut.com/news/sports/Boston-Public-Improvement-Commission-Votes-Name-Change-Yawkey-Way-Jersey-Street-478264473.html

Desserts Ever After: Willy Wonka - April 22, 2:00 - 4:00 pm

Meet and take pictures with the cast from The NCTC "Roald Dahl's Willy Wonka Jr.", participate in some Willy Wonka activities and enjoy ice cream desserts. Tickets are $5 each.

from Newington, CT - News Flash http://www.newingtonct.gov/CivicAlerts.aspx?aid=388

Register today for the 22nd Annual Newington Library 5K Challenge road race

Register today for the Newington Library 5K Challenge Road Race to be held on Sunday, May 20 at Mill Pond. Park. Register online or get your print form today. Walkers welcome!

from Newington, CT - News Flash http://www.newingtonct.gov/CivicAlerts.aspx?aid=387

Ex-Mets Star, Philanthropist Rusty Staub Dies on Opening Day

Mets legend and philanthropist Rusty Staub has died at age 73, just hours before the team opens up the 2018 season."The entire organization sends its deepest sympathy to his family.

Photo Credit: RustyStaubFoundation.com
This story uses functionality that may not work in our app. Click here to open the story in your web browser.

from NBC Connecticut - Sports http://www.nbcconnecticut.com/news/sports/Mets-Legend-Rusty-Staub-Dies-on-Opening-Day-478275363.html

Truck accident closes 2 SB lanes on I-95

A tractor-trailer crash has taken out two southbound lanes on I-95 in New Haven Thursday morning. The accident, reported at 6:53 a.m., involves a truck and another vehicle. The right and center lanes are closed between Exits 51 and 48.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/local/article/Truck-accident-closes-2-SB-lanes-on-I-95-12790250.php

Waterbury train service delayed after police pursuit on tracks

Metro-North’s Waterbury Branch Line service is delayed because of “police activity.” “Waterbury Branch Service customers should anticipate delays of up to 60 minutes due to earlier police activity between Waterbury and Ansonia.” Nancy Gamerman said train service was stopped because Ansonia police “were pursuing a person of interest on the tracks” Wednesday morning. MTA police assisted by stopping service on the line. Gamerman said no one was struck by a train. Ansonia police have not yet released details on the pursuit.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/local/article/Waterbury-branch-service-delayed-by-police-12790191.php

Police: Brookfield teen posted threatening message with rifle

BROOKFIELD - A 16-year-old Brookfield High School student has been arrested for allegedly posting a threat on social media. Police said the social media post depicted what investigators determined to be “an airsoft facsimlie rifle modeled after an AK-15-style rifle with two airsoft magazines of four different rounds of ammunition.” Police said all of these items are now in the possesion of the department. The teen, who was not identified, was charged with first-degree threatening, a Class D felony, and refered to Juvenile Court. “There was a text message on the post that was threatening in nature, relating to the school day on Wednesday. No weapons were found at the school,” police said.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/policereports/article/Police-Brookfield-teen-posted-threatening-12790178.php

Steamboat Accident – Today in History: March 29

On March 29, 1876, the steamboat City of Hartford, of the New York and Hartford steamboat line, hit the Air Line Railroad Bridge on the Connecticut River at Middletown carrying away one of the 200-foot spans. The fifty passengers onboard escaped without injury but a pilot and oiler were severely injured. The damage to the bridge was estimated at $35,000 and trains would be halted until a temporary span could be constructed.

from ConnecticutHistory.org https://connecticuthistory.org/steamboat-accident-today-in-history/

Westport police: Residents grew marijuana in home

WESTPORT — Two town residents face charges after an anonymous source told police they were growing marijuana out of their home, Lt. Eric Woods said. Ricardo Tavares, 46, and Valonia Tavares, 51, were arrested and charged Wednesday following the execution of a search warrant. Ricardo Tavares was charged with risk of injury to a child. He was a released on a $5,000 non-surety bond. Valonia Tavares was charged with operation of a drug factory, cultivating marijuana, possession of a controlled substance, possession of drug paraphernalia and risk of injury to a child. She was held on a $50,000 bond.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/local/article/Westport-police-Residents-grew-marijuana-in-home-12789349.php

Bethel, Stamford, Westport cops honored

ORANGE — Police officers from three different agencies were honored Wednesday evening for their work responding to calls that could have ended fatally had it not been for the intervention of these officers. At a dinner Wednesday evening in Orange, hosted by the Police Commissioners Association of Connecticut, three Bethel police officers, three Stamford police officers and two Westport police officers were honored for their efforts involving their response to specific incidents. The dinner also celebrated the top three academic graduates from POST and featured former Bridgeport police Lt. Ron Bailey as a guest speaker.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/local/article/Bethel-Stamford-Westport-cops-honored-12788991.php

More than $130K donated to requests from Bridgeport Public Schools

BRIDGEPORT — Over 100 projects for Bridgeport Public Schools on DonorsChoose.org were funded Tuesday night. The 188 Bridgeport projects that were fully funded will support 125 teachers and total $132,759. And Bridgeport wasn’t the only lucky city or town. Every single classroom project request across the nation was funded last night by Ripple, a San Francisco-based technology company. The company donated $29 million. DonorsChoose.org was started by a Bronx public high school history teacher in 2000. The site was launched as a place for people to donate to teachers asking for books, supplies and other materials. Charles Best, the teacher who founded the site, and 11 of his colleagues posted the first requests on the site in 2000.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/local/article/More-than-130K-donated-to-requests-from-12789243.php

Former Texas Christian University QB Trevone Boykin Arrested: Police

Texas police say Former Texas Christian University quarterback Trevone Boykin was arrested Wednesday afternoon on charges of aggravated assault with serious bodily injury in Mansfield.

Photo Credit: Getty Images/Thearon W. Henderson
This story uses functionality that may not work in our app. Click here to open the story in your web browser.

from NBC Connecticut - Sports http://www.nbcconnecticut.com/news/sports/Former-TCU-QB-Trevone-Boykin-Arrested-in-Connection-With-Assault-Investigation-478215673.html

Legislators want to study bringing opioid courts to Connecticut

HARTFORD — As deaths and overdoses spike, a group of legislators thinks Connecticut should change the way court cases for opioid addicts are handled. The Judiciary Committee unanimously approved a bill Wednesday to create a task force to study the feasibility of establishing opioid intervention courts in the state. The Senate will vote on the bill before it becomes law. Opioid courts are being piloted around the country. They specialize in hearing criminal or juvenile cases in which a defendant addicted to opioids and could benefit from intensive court monitoring and placement in a substance abuse treatment program — instead of prison time. A task force would in particular examine a model in Buffalo, N.Y., said Sen.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/local/article/Legislators-want-to-study-bringing-opioid-courts-12788899.php

Westport car fire quickly extinguished

WESPORT — Firefighters quickly put out a car fire in town Wednesday afternoon, officials said. The fire engine quickly arrived and contained the fire to the engine compartment of the car. Westport police responded to the scene as well and helped with traffic control. There were no injuries reported.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/local/article/Westport-car-fire-quickly-extinguished-12788931.php

Former Fairfield University dean takes Manhattan post

Manhattan College named Donald Gibson as dean of its O’Malley School of Business, with Gibson previously dean of the Dolan School of Business at Fairfield University and named only last August as vice provost for university academic affairs. Named for Greenwich resident Thomas O’Malley after a $25 million gift, the O’Malley School of Business is located in Riverdale, N.Y. Gibson has an MBA and doctorate from UCLA, and previously was a Yale University professor in organizational behavior. He is author of a book on managing anger in the workplace and served as executive director of the International Association for Conflict Management.

from Business https://www.ctpost.com/business/article/Former-Fairfield-University-dean-takes-Manhattan-12788825.php

Brunch to be hosted in honor of Bridgeport fraternity member

BRIDGEPORT — A chapter of the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity will host a tribute and brunch in honor of one of its members next month. The Rho Upsilon chapter of the fraternity has been in Bridgeport since 1952. The nonprofit organization was founded in 1911 at Howard University in Washington, D.C. Charlie B. Tisdale, a member of the fraternity’s Bridgeport chapter, will be honored at the brunch from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. on Sunday, April 15 at Holiday Inn on Main Street. Tisdale is the executive director of the Action for Bridgeport Community Development — a community agency that serves the greater Bridgeport area for child care, energy assistance, housing and youth services. The event will begin the initiation of the Charlie B.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/local/article/Brunch-to-be-hosted-in-honor-of-Bridgeport-12788739.php

Man charged with killing one, wounding two others in crashes

BRIDGEPORT - A Waterbury man has been charged with causing the crashes last August that killed a popular 61-year-old woman and severely injured two pedestrians while he was fleeing police. Joseph Guzman-Rivera, 22, of Cliff Street, was arrested Tuesday and charged with first-degree manslaughter, two counts of first-degree assault and three counts of reckless endangerment as well as motor vehicle offenses. He was being held in lieu of $750,000 bond. Shortly after 1 p.m. on Aug. 10, state police attempted to pull Guzman-Rivera’s car over on South Avenue for having dark tinted windows and an illegible rear license plate, police said.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/local/article/Man-charged-with-killing-one-wounding-two-others-12788619.php

Reports: Person stabbed in Bridgeport

BRIDGEPORT — A stab wound victim has been reported at a city hospital Wednesday afternoon, dispatch reports indicated. Shortly before 3:30 p.m., Bridgeport police were alerted to a stab wound victim at St. Vincent’s Medical Center. The victim told hospital staff that the stabbing occurred earlier on Beers Street, according to reports. About five minutes before 3 p.m., officers were dispatched to Beers Street for a reported street fight involving what appeared to be teenagers. One witness told police that one person had a knife. When the officers arrived, the fight had dispersed, reports indicated. The victim was reportedly a Central High School student.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/local/article/Reports-Person-stabbed-in-Bridgeport-12788583.php

50 years ago baseball was on the brink

Fifty years ago baseball was in turmoil. The commissioner was blamed for halfhearted responses to the assassinations of Martin Luther King Jr. and Bobby Kennedy. The Vietnam war was drafting the top prospects. And averages like Jose Altuve’s .346 or home run numbers like Aaron Judge’s 53 were only hitters’ dreams. Hitter’s nightmares were filled with pitchers like Denny McLain’s 31 wins (the first 30-game winner since Dizzy Dean in 1934), Bob Gibson and his 1.12 earned run average (the lowest since 1914) and Don Drysdale’s unheard of 58 2/3 consecutive shutout innings.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/local/article/50-years-ago-baseball-was-on-the-brink-12788502.php

Council weighs moratorium on sewer bill collections

BRIDGEPORT — Frustrated City Council members are threatening a moratorium blocking City Hall’s controversial efforts to collect late sewer use fees. “You wanna hold us up, we’ll hold you up,” Councilman Marcus Brown told two municipal lawyers Tuesday during a tension-filled ordinance committee meeting, which Brown co-chaired. That committee has launched an aggressive — and at times seemingly unwieldy — probe into the city’s longtime use of private collection attorneys and property foreclosures to go after bills owed the Water Pollution Control Authority. The council hopes to reform that process and set up a new mediation program for homeowners who have fallen too far behind.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/local/article/Council-weighs-moratorium-on-sewer-bill-12788333.php

D.C. Buzz: DACA dreamers blocked by wall

President Trump last week said it was Democrats in Congress who left the youthful DACA Dreamers at the altar, falling short of promises to protect their legal status as part of the Omnibus spending bill agreement reached Friday. “I say this to DACA recipients, that the Republicans are with you,” said Trump, who almost vetoed the $1.3 trillion bill and vowed never to sign another one like it again. “They want to get your situation taken care of. The Democrats fought us. They just fought every single inch of the way. They did not want DACA in this bill.” That came as something of a surprise to Sens.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/news/article/D-C-Buzz-DACA-Dreamers-blocked-by-wall-12788191.php

Democrats take “extraordinary action” issuing call for McDonald’s reconsideration

HARTFORD — Less than 24 hours after Senate Republicans and one Democrat voted to block Supreme Court Justice Andrew McDonald from becoming chief justice, Senate Democrats are calling on the naysayers to reconsider. In a Capitol press conference Wednesday described as a “last ditch effort” by Senate President Pro Tempore Martin Looney, D-New Haven, Democrats called the rejection of McDonald for chief justice a “grave mistake” and a “travesty.” “This is an extraordinary and historic action; however, in order to preserve the independence of Connecticut’s judicial system and ensure that petty partisan politics does not infect the judiciary, the senate should reconsider Justice McDonald’s nomination,” Looney said.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/local/article/Democrats-take-extraordinary-action-issuing-12788123.php

Boughton’s doctors: Another seizure unlikely

Almost two weeks after Mark Boughton, the Danbury mayor and Republican candidate for governor, collapsed from an apparent seizure at a campaign event, his doctors have given him the all clear to continue with his campaign so long as he listens to their advice from here on out. “I have no problem with him continuing his campaign or going at the rate that he is,” said Dr. Spyros Smith, Boughton’s general physician from the Danbury Medical Group. “As long as he does what he needs to do to stay healthy, and is smart about how he does it, he should have no problems. I think this was the wake up call to take better care and listen to his doctors.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/news/article/Boughton-s-doctors-Another-seizure-unlikely-12787997.php

Connecticut brokerage ranks in report’s top 10

William Raveis Real Estate ranked in the top 10 of a real estate “power broker” list published by RISMedia, with nearly $10.2 billion in home sales last year. New Jersey-based NRT topped the RISMedia list with $178 billion in transactional volume, with the Realogy subsidiary’s brands including Coldwell Banker and Sotheby’s International Realty. Rounding out the top three were HomeServices of America and Douglas Elliman. Shelton-based William Raveis ranked eighth to lead Connecticut-based real estate brokerages, followed by William Pitt/Julia B. Fee Sotheby’s International Realty ranking 33rd nationally with $4.2 billion in volume. RISMedia has its main office in Norwalk. Alex.Soule@scni.com; 203-842-2545; @casoulman

from Business https://www.ctpost.com/business/article/Connecticut-brokerage-ranks-in-report-s-top-10-12787962.php

Colleges scramble to meet demand for mental health services

As anxiety and depression among college students soars, universities in Connecticut and nationally are expanding their mental health counseling, even offering courses that address mental well-being. A new national report from the Center for Collegiate Mental Health at Penn State found that anxiety and depression were the top concerns of students seeking counseling services, and that self-harm behaviors have risen for the seventh year in a row. In another survey, 57 percent of directors of college counseling services said the severity of student mental health concerns increased between 2015 and 2016. And according to a National College Health Assessment survey, 9.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/local/article/Colleges-scramble-to-meet-demand-for-mental-12787687.php

Dancing event to raise money for Bridgeport Hospital

FAIRFIELD — The Bridgeport Hospital Auxiliary will host its annual spring gala, “Dancing with the Hospital Stars,” from 6 to 10 p.m. Friday, April 27, at Brooklawn Country Club in Fairfield. Tickets are available in the Bridgeport Hospital Gift Shop, 267 Grant St., online at http://bhhosp.convio.net/aux-gala or by contacting auxiliary President Bonnie Molloy at 203-556-9981 or bonniemolloy@aol.com. Proceeds support the Allison Family Neonatal Intensive Care Unit modernization project and the REACH outpatient psychiatry program at Bridgeport Hospital. The highlight of the gala is a dance contest that pairs hospital staff members with professional partners.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/local/article/Dancing-event-to-raise-money-for-Bridgeport-12787726.php

Dog shot after attacking man

BRIDGEPORT — A pitbull was injured after being shot in response to a domestic violence call in Bridgeport on Tuesday night, city officials said. Animal control officers were called to 127 Polk Street following reports of a dog attacking a man. The man was taken to Bridgeport Hospital and later taken into custody by police because of an active warrant for his arrest.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/local/article/Dog-shot-after-attacking-man-12787458.php

Outdoor concert amphitheater plans to be revealed

Wednesday will be the day we get our first look at detailed plans for Fairfield County’s newest concert amphitheater at the former Bridgeport Bluefish stadium. The design plans for the state-of-the-art outdoor concert venue will be unveiled Wednesday morning by Howard Saffan, principal of Harbor Yard Amphitheater, Jim Koplik, president of Live Nation Connecticut and Upstate New York, and Bridgeport city officials. “We intend to build an amphitheater that will put Bridgeport on the concert map,” Koplik said. Given Live Nation’s involvement, the amphitheater envisioned for the city’s empty minor league baseball park could make Bridgeport one of the hottest concert destinations in Connecticut — and even the Northeast.

from Business https://www.ctpost.com/business/article/Outdoor-concert-amphitheater-plans-to-be-revealed-12787426.php

Sen. Frantz: Judicial process “no rubber stamp”

Veteran Greenwich state Sen. L. Scott Frantz says that he rejected Supreme Court Justice Andrew J. McDonald’s bid to become chief justice because of his “activism” and his stances on the role of the high court. In a statement late Tuesday, nearly eight hours after the 19-16 Senate vote ended McDonald’s candidacy, Frantz noted that McDonald was unable to receive unanimous support from majority Democrats in the General Assembly. “Today I cast a ‘No’ vote regarding the nomination of Justice Andrew McDonald to become the chief justice of the Connecticut Supreme Court, after he received an unfavorable report from the Judiciary Committee and the failure to achieve full support of his own party,” Frantz said.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/local/article/Sen-Frantz-Judicial-process-no-rubber-12787413.php

Disabled truck on Merritt slows NB traffic

A disabled truck on the Merritt Parkway briefly closed the right northbound lane between Exits 52 and 53 on Wednesday morning. The truck, which was not allowed on the parkway, was located about a mile from the Route 111 (River Road) exit. Because of the lane closure, northbound traffic is congested more than two miles. Traffic is expected to ease shortly. The state Department of Transportation said the truck has been removed shortly before 7:30 a.m.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/local/article/Disabled-truck-on-Merritt-slows-NB-traffic-12787177.php

Bet Ends in Dodgers Donating $2M to Puerto Rico Relief Efforts

This is a story about a bet.The tale begins just hours before the start of Game 5 of the National League Championship Series between the Los Angeles Dodgers and Chicago Cubs.It was a cool, crisp 62...

Photo Credit: Miguel Tovar/Getty Images
This story uses functionality that may not work in our app. Click here to open the story in your web browser.

from NBC Connecticut - Sports http://www.nbcconnecticut.com/news/sports/How-a-Friendly-Bet-Between-Owner-Mark-Walter-and-Enrique-Hernandez-Sent-the-Dodgers-to-the-World-Series-and-Raised-Over-2-Million-for-Puerto-Rico-478126383.html

Connecticut and the Comstock Law

The federal Comstock Law of 1873 made it illegal to sell or distribute materials that promoted contraception or abortion, to send literature or materials pertaining to these subjects through the United States Postal Service, or to obtain them from overseas. Legislators passed the law hoping to mitigate the influence of obscene materials on the morality of the general population as well as to stem the growing practice of couples engaging in pre-marital sex. In addition, using contraception allowed women greater presence in the workplace, which many felt posed a threat to both traditionally gendered spheres of influence and the institution of marriage. In the wake of the Comstock Law, Connecticut passed its own state law in 1879 that carried the anti-contraception movement further than any other state in the country.

Female Workforce Delays Childbirth

Anthony Comstock

Late in the 19th century, the industrial revolution made large numbers of jobs available to both men and women. As a result, many women put off having children to focus on their professional careers. Lobbyists like Anthony Comstock of the New York Society for the Suppression of Vice feared the impact these decisions had on male dominance in the workplace as well as in promoting demographic shifts that might cause the “upper-classes” in the country to become a minority.

Comstock successfully lobbied Congress to pass An Act for the Suppression of Trade in, and Circulation of, Obscene Literature and Articles of Immoral Use, better known as the Comstock Law. Shortly after, states began taking it upon themselves to pass their own versions of anti-obscenity and contraception laws.

Connecticut Passes Obscenity Law; Bans Contraceptives

On February 7, 1879, Senator Carlos Smith of New Haven introduced a bill to the Connecticut state legislature entitled, An Act to Amend an Act Concerning Offenses against Decency, Morality and Humanity. In order to avoid glorifying obscene material, local papers avoided detailing just what the amendments were, but thanks to support from Chairman of the Temperance Committee for the House, P.T. Barnum, the bill made it into law on March 28, 1879.

While Connecticut was just one of 24 states that ultimately passed obscenity and contraception statutes mirroring the Comstock Law, its legislation proved to be the most restrictive. Most states regulated the sale and advertising of contraceptives; Connecticut banned the use of contraceptives altogether.

Over the better part of the following century, federal courts eased restrictions on contraception, leaving the issue largely up to the individual states to address. While some states followed the more lenient stance taken at the federal level, Connecticut stood firm in outlawing the use of birth control.

Finally, in 1965, Connecticut attorney Catherine Roraback challenged the state’s authority, claiming that the contraceptive ban violated the right to marital privacy guaranteed by the Bill of Rights. The lawsuit garnered national attention and brought the contraceptive debate back to the federal level. In the case of Griswold v. Connecticut, the United States Supreme Court ruled in Roraback’s favor, ultimately facilitating the end of the contraception ban in Connecticut.

 

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from ConnecticutHistory.org https://connecticuthistory.org/connecticut-and-the-comstock-law/

Series Game Cut Short Due to Pipe Leak at Dodger Stadium

Someone call a plumber.The finale of the exhibition Freeway Series marking was called in the bottom of the fifth inning on Tuesday after a water line broke at Dodger Stadium, flooding the third baseline.With...

Photo Credit: Michael Duarte/NBC LA

from NBC Connecticut - Sports http://www.nbcconnecticut.com/news/sports/That-Stinks-Freeway-Series-Finale-Called-After-Sewage-Line-Breaks-at-Dodger-Stadium-478137173.html

Conn. U.S. Marshals arrest fugitive from North Carolina

WOLCOTT — In the early morning hours of Tuesday, the U.S. Marshals Violent Fugitive Task Force in Connecticut captured a fugitive from North Carolina, said Deputy Brian O’Neill, supervisor of the task force. The “significant arrest,” as O’Neill called it later Tuesday, was done in conjunction with Wolcott police. Around 5:30 a.m. Tuesday, the task force and Wolcott police went to a residence in the 200 block of Todd Road in Wolcott to detain a fugitive wanted on weapons charges, police said. “This morning we had gained intel on an address for him (the fugitive),” O’Neill said. The fugitive — identified as 21-year-old Joseph Pierce from Greenville, North Carolina — was arrested on behalf of police in North Carolina.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/local/article/Conn-U-S-Marshals-arrest-fugitive-from-North-12786232.php

Cowboys WR Hurns to Wear 17 to Honor Fla. Shooting Victims

New Dallas Cowboys wide receiver Allen Hurns will wear No. 17 in honor of the 17 victims of the school shooting at Marjorie Stoneman Douglas High School in Florida.Hurns, who had worn No.
This story uses functionality that may not work in our app. Click here to open the story in your web browser.

from NBC Connecticut - Sports http://www.nbcconnecticut.com/news/sports/New-Cowboys-WR-Allen-Hurns-to-Wear-17-in-Honor-of-Florida-School-Shooting-Victims-478107453.html

State looks to attract Bitcoin tech companies

HARTFORD — As Connecticut hustles to attract new businesses, some legislators are turning toward a technology powering the popular cryptocurrency Bitcoin. Blockchain is a public ledger system that records transactions of digital currencies. The technology has other uses for online data verification in industries like health care, supply chains and energy. The Commerce Committee approved a bill Tuesday directing state officials to create a working group to study how to bring blockchain companies to Connecticut. Chair of the Committee state Sen. Scott Frantz, R-Greenwich, said he would like to see Connecticut become “a mecca for blockchain technology.” “We are trying to fast-track this,” he said.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/local/article/State-looks-to-attract-Bitcoin-tech-companies-12786024.php

Next nominee for chief justice still undecided

HARTFORD — Now that Supreme Court Justice Andrew McDonald is out, Gov. Dannel P. Malloy has five days to advance a new nominee for chief justice, according to state statute. Malloy did not have a second choice for the top judicial spot, he said in a Capitol news conference right after the Senate vote Tuesday. He will be giving a new nominee “some thought” over the coming days, he said. If he does not issue a new nomination, the senior-most Supreme Court judge who is willing to assume the responsibilities of chief justice, would temporarily fill the role, Malloy said. Senate Republican Leader Len Fasano of North Haven said Monday his caucus would like to see Supreme Court Justice Richard A. Robinson get the job.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/local/article/Next-nominee-for-chief-justice-still-undecided-12786012.php

New law helps vets with ‘bad paper’

A new federal law will allow hundreds of Connecticut veterans with “bad paper” discharges to be eligible for long-term mental health care for the first time, and thus reduce their suicide risk. U.S. Sen. Christopher Murphy, D-Conn., a co-sponsor of the law, said it will “change the lives of veterans.” The legislation was included in the federal budget signed last Friday by President Trump. The new law affects veterans with an “other than honorable” discharge, a status increasingly given for minor offenses. The U.S.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/local/article/New-law-helps-vets-with-bad-paper-12785988.php

Trumbull High Model Congress team takes home a win

TRUMBULL — Trumbull High School brought home a top honor at the 21st Penn Model Congress competition, a first for the team which formed only four years ago. Trumbull’s Model Congress team has been attending the University of Pennsylvania Model Congress competition since spring 2015. But this year, competing against more than 700 students from around the country, the team was honored with the “Best Small Delegation Award,” along with several individual awards for students. The award is for school groups of fewer than 18 students. “It was honestly amazing. I've never been more proud of a group of students,” said Katie Boland, the team’s adviser and a social studies teacher at Trumbull High.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/local/article/Trumbull-High-Model-Congress-team-takes-home-a-win-12785835.php

Hearing begins in Easton double murder case

BRIDGEPORT - Kyle Navin sat in court furiously writing in a yellow legal pad Tuesday as police officers testified about what led them to suspect the scion of the Easton garbage removal company in the deaths of his parents. Although Navin, who is charged with two counts of murder in his parents’ 2015 deaths, is still three and a half weeks away from the scheduled start of his trial before a Superior Court jury, state prosecutors on Tuesday began presenting its evidence in the case before Judge Robert Devlin in an attempt to dispel suppression motions filed by the defense. Navin’s lawyer, Eugene Riccio, is seeking to keep from the jury four statements made by Navin.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/local/article/Hearing-begins-in-Easton-double-murder-case-12785821.php

Recall watch: Smoke alarms, flour among pulled products

Kidde is recalling about 452,000 of its dual-sensor (photoelectric and ionization) smoke alarms — models PI2010 and PI9010 — as a yellow cap left on during the manufacturing process can cover one of the two smoke sensors and compromise the smoke alarm’s ability to detect smoke, posing a risk of consumers not being alerted to a fire in their home. The company has received one report of the cap being present on a smoke alarm before it was installed in a consumer’s home. No reports of incidents or injuries as a result of a yellow cap being present have been reported. Consumers should dismount the alarm and visually inspect it through the opening on its side for the presence of a yellow cap.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/local/article/Recall-watch-Smoke-alarms-flour-among-pulled-12785686.php

Police: Car hit Bridgeport school bus, fled scene

BRIDGEPORT — No injuries were reported after a car hit a Bridgeport school bus Tuesday afternoon, officials said. Police and fire units responded to the area of Beardsley Park Terrace and East Main Street for a reported hit-and-run around 3:40 p.m. Tuesday. Medics were also called to the scene as a precaution. “No injuries to children on board (the bus),” police spokesman Av Harris said. Police did not immediately have a description of the responsible vehicle, Harris said.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/local/article/Police-Car-hit-Bridgeport-school-bus-fled-scene-12785639.php

Learn About RX Drug Abuse

The presentation is free and open to adults and teens, held on Wednesday April 4, 2018 6pm to 8pm at the Newington High School, Event Center. We will be providing free light refreshments and an opportunity to learn the facts about the Opioid Crisis.

from Newington, CT - News Flash http://www.newingtonct.gov/CivicAlerts.aspx?aid=386

Westport police: Poodle/Yorkie mix found on Saugatuck Ave.

WESTPORT — Do you recognize this dog? Westport police said the dog was found in the 200 block of Saugatuck Avenue. The dog, police said, is a poodle/Yorkie mix. She was found wearing a pink collar and was very dirty, police said. If this is your dog, call Westport Animal Control at 203-341-5076.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/local/article/Westport-police-Poodle-Yorkie-mix-found-on-12785315.php

Case continued for Shelton volunteer firefighter charged with arson

The wait continues for the Shelton firefighter charged with setting fire to a load of cardboard boxes in his pickup truck and then riding down the highway with burning debris flying onto the road. “Tortora told us that we should have seen him driving down Howe Avenue with the rear of his truck bed on fire,” Shelton Detective Richard Bango wrote in his affidavit. “He stated that other drivers were pulling beside him beeping their horns.” Superior Court Judge Frank Iannotti continued the six charges against William Tortora, who appeared in the Milford courtroom Monday, until April 25. Tortora is the brother of Shelton Fire Marshal James Tortora.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/local/article/Case-continued-for-Shelton-volunteer-charged-with-12785228.php

Sitting Duck Tavern to open Oxford location

The owner of Stratford’s Sitting Duck Tavern is looking to add his neighborhood feel to the mix of businesses at the Quarry Walk development in Oxford. Owner Bill DaSilva said he is finalizing a lease with Haynes Development to open a third restaurant in Oxford, adding to the roster in the ongoing development of the town’s new commercial hub. “We like Oxford, especially their location, because they are creating a downtown area or a place to gather for a lot of the communities around there, which is always great for a restaurant. It’s a point of destination and that always brings people to the areas.” DaSilva has been running the tavern since he opened his original location in Stratford six years ago at 3694 Main St.

from Business https://www.ctpost.com/business/article/Sitting-Duck-Tavern-to-open-Oxford-location-12785430.php

2 lanes closed to traffic on Route 8 after 3-car crash

BRIDGEPORT — City firefighters are on scene with state police on Route 8 southbound for a crash Tuesday afternoon. Initially, Route 8 southbound between exits 3 and 2 was completely closed from around 2:40 p.m. until 3 p.m. as state police and Bridgeport firefighters worked to process and handle the scene of a three-car crash. By 3 p.m., state police had reopened the left lane to traffic, keeping the right and center lanes closed. Traffic is congested between exits 5 and 2 — about 1.2 miles of roadway. There was no immediate word on injuries.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/local/article/3-car-crash-on-Route-8-shuts-down-section-of-12785244.php

Milford: Beth-El Center’s new executive director named

MILFORD — The Beth-El Center announced Tuesday that Jennifer Paradis will be the the center’s new executive director. She will replace Toni Dolan, who will be retiring on June 1. The announcement was made by the center’s board of directors. Beth-El for years has cared for the hungry and homeless. It provides temporary shelter and feeds up to 80 people daily in its soup kitchen. Paradis has served in a variety of roles for several community non-profits over the past decade and she has served as Beth-El’s director of programs and facilities since June of 2015.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/local/article/Milford-Beth-El-Center-s-new-executive-12785234.php

Learn About RX Drug Abuse

The presentation is free and open to adults and teens, held on Wednesday April 4, 2018 6pm to 8pm at the Newington High School, Event Center. We will be providing free light refreshments and an opportunity to learn the facts about the Opioid Crisis.

from Newington, CT - News Flash http://www.newingtonct.gov/CivicAlerts.aspx?aid=385

Ganim offers support for McDonald

BRIDGEPORT — Mayor Joe Ganim, a Democrat running for governor, offered a strong, though last minute, public endorsement Tuesday of making Andrew McDonald chief justice of the Supreme Court. “Supreme Court Justice McDonald has already proven himself quite capable of handling complex legal issues in a competent, professional manner. He is more than qualified to serve as chief justice,” Ganim said in a statement. “He is, in fact, that rare jurist who understands how the cases ruled on by the justice system and arguments about those cases are not merely academic -- they impact the lives of real people in Connecticut trying to put food on the table every day.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/local/article/Ganim-offers-support-for-McDonald-12785143.php

Springs Coming! Parking ban to be lifted.

Parking ban is no longer in effect as of April 1, 2018.

from Newington, CT - News Flash http://www.newingtonct.gov/CivicAlerts.aspx?aid=191

Bridgeport cop charged with assault, DUI in wrong-way crash

STRATFORD - A veteran Bridgeport cop and member of the department’s SWAT team was charged Tuesday with driving drunk and injuring a young Trumbull woman in a wrong-way crash. Police said Officer John Carrano had a blood/alcohol level of .25 - more than three times the legal limit - when he drove the wrong way on Broadbridge Avenue and ran head on into the 19-year-old woman who is the granddaughter of former Bridgeport mayor Thomas Bucci. Carrano, 33, a member of the Bridgeport police force for 7 years, was charged Tuesday with second-degree assault with a motor vehicle, operating under the influence, driving the wrong way and failure to drive right. He was released after posting $25,000 bond.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/local/article/Bridgeport-cop-charged-with-assault-DUI-in-12784991.php

Ex-Michigan State Dean Charged Amid Nassar Probe

William Strampel, former dean of Michigan State’s College of Osteopathic Medicine, is the first person charged in the broad investigation into how the university handled complaints against longtime sports...

from NBC Connecticut - Sports http://www.nbcconnecticut.com/news/sports/Ex-Michigan-State-Dean-Charged-Amid-Nassar-Probe-478072533.html

St. Vincent’s signs deal to be acquired by Hartford HealthCare

St. Vincent’s Medical Center in Bridgeport has signed an agreement to be acquired by Hartford HealthCare. St. Vincent’s has 3,200 employees, making it one of the largest employers in Bridgeport, and includes a 473-bed hospital, a 76-bed inpatient psychiatric facility in Westport, a large multispecialty provider group and St. Vincent’s Special Needs Services. It is currently owned by Ascension, the largest nonprofit health system in the U.S., based in Minnesota.

from Business https://www.ctpost.com/business/article/St-Vincent-s-signs-deal-to-be-acquired-by-12784674.php