Dangerous Cold & NAACP Supports Windham

January 21, 2025


The governor activated the cold weather protocol because we are dealing with some dangerously cold weather. Read below to learn how you can help someone who needs a warm place to stay.

I spoke with the president of Windham/Willimantic branch of the NAACP about the organization's role in raising awareness of racial discrimination and civil rights violations. We also discussed the community's special service honoring Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. You can listen to the entire show if you keep scrolling.

Scammers are resorting to texting people claiming they owe an unpaid toll. I'll show you what the text looks like and break down how to avoid becoming a victim.

Here are the sections in today's email:

  • Stay Indoors Due to the Dangerous Cold
  • Let's Talk About It: Impact of NAACP 
  • Scam Alert: Unpaid Toll Text 
  • Know the Difference: CT Paid Leave and Paid Sick Leave
 
Stay Indoors Due to the Dangerous Cold
The state’s severe cold weather protocol is in effect now through Saturday at noon due to the dangerously frigid air in Connecticut. The protocol gives our most vulnerable an opportunity to find a warm place.
State agencies and municipalities coordinate with United Way 2-1-1 and Connecticut’s network of shelters to make sure that anyone in need can receive shelter.
 
Call 2-1-1 to get connected to vital services or visit 211ct.org to view a list of locations. Transportation can be provided if necessary.
More information here
 
Let's Talk About It: Impact of NAACP 
My co-host Dennis O’Brien and I sat down with the president of Windham/Willimantic branch of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) on my weekly affairs program “Let’s Talk About It” to discuss the organization’s impact in our community. Leah Ralls broke down how the NAACP responds to racial discrimination and civil rights violations.

The NAACP is the oldest civil rights organization in the country, and its mission is to fight for civil rights on many issues including medical, education, legal, and housing. NAACP members work to ensure everyone is treated fairly, regardless of skin color or ZIP code.

Connecticut is home to 16 NAACP branches, including the one in our hometown, which also covers Thompson, Plainfield, Coventry and all the towns in between. The Windham/Willimantic chapter has more than 200 members, and Dennis and I are proud to be among them.
Leah Ralls explained that our local chapter works with the community when discrimination or civil rights violations take place. When someone lodges a complaint, NAACP members will conduct an internal investigation by discussing the issue with all parties to solve problems amicably. Members hold conversations with landlords, hospitals, or educators and customize an action plan to prevent discrimination. The NAACP will refer to civil rights attorneys if the case requires legal action and will accompany the individual to meet the lawyer involved.

Leah Ralls comes from a family that believes in equality, equity, and racial justice. She thanked her mom for re-forming the NAACP in our region and serving as president. Her mom taught her that everyone should have equal access to good education, top-notch medical treatment, and appropriate legal resources among other things.

We also previewed the service honoring the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. that took place on Monday. The theme this year was “Mission Possible” – protecting freedom, justice, and democracy in the spirit of nonviolence 365 days per year. The guest speaker was the Reverend Hollis Cotton who shared more about the enduring relevance of Dr. King’s principles of nonviolence and protecting civil and human rights in today’s world.

Please click on the video below to listen to the entire show!
Leah Ralls, president of NAACP Windham/Willimantic branch,
discussed the organization's impact in our community.
 
Scam Alert: Unpaid Toll Text
I want to ensure all of you stay safe and informed about a new scam where fraudsters are sending text messages claiming you have an unpaid toll and asking for payment. Please DO NOT click any links or provide any personal information.
The image below gives you an idea of what the bogus text looks like.

Here are some tips from the FBI:

  • If you receive one of these messages, file a complaint with the IC3, www.ic3.gov. Include where the number of the originating text came from, and the website from which the number was generated
  • Delete any scam texts received
  • If you clicked any link or provided your information, take efforts to secure your personal information and financial accounts. Dispute any unfamiliar charges
  • Always verify any toll-related charges directly through official state websites or customer service
  • Stay vigilant and share this message with your friends and family to help protect our community
 
Know the Difference:
CT Paid Leave and Paid Sick Leave
CT Paid Leave and paid sick leave are similar but different policies that provide support to workers. Workers utilize CT Paid Leave to recover from or care for a loved one with a serious health condition, such as cancer treatment or surgery. To assist in navigating the differences, see the resource below or click the link here.