| Severe Cold Weather Protocol |
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The state's severe cold weather protocol has been extended to Thursday, Feb. 5. This is the longest, continuous severe weather cold weather protocol we've experienced in over a decade.
It's cold -- especially at night.
The purpose of the protocol is to ensure that the most vulnerable populations receive protection from the severe cold, which could be life-threatening if exposed to the elements for extended periods of time.
While enacted, a system is set up for state agencies and municipalities to coordinate with United Way 2-1-1 and Connecticut’s network of shelters to make sure that anyone in need can receive shelter from the outdoors, including transportation to shelters.
Anyone in need of shelter or a warming center is urged to visit 211ct.org or call 2-1-1 to find available locations. Transportation can be provided if necessary.
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| Thank You, Danbury Public Works |
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Thank you to the men and women of Danbury Public Works for their truly Herculean efforts in clearing our roads and keeping residents safe during this severe weather. I am deeply grateful for the dedication, professionalism, and perseverance shown throughout this challenging operation. I want to extend special thanks to Public Works Director Antonio Iadarola, Superintendent of Public Services Tim Nolan, and every city employee who worked long hours over multiple consecutive days to ensure our city was cared for.
Their commitment did not go unnoticed. While there will always be some complaints, there should never be a shortage of steadfast support and sincere gratitude for these dedicated public servants. They worked under extreme and difficult conditions so that the rest of us could remain safe and warm in our homes.
They have my utmost respect and unwavering support every day. |
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| League of Women Voters Forum |
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| Grateful to join the League of Women Voters Meet Your Legislators forum this past week and engage in meaningful conversations along with sharing my views on public education, voting rights, taxes, the environment, protecting Candlewood Lake, what state Sen. Julie Kushner and I have delivered for Danbury and so much more. |
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| Hockey, Fundraising, Service |
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Hockey, community, and impact.
Fun time supporting the Danbury Hat Tricks as we raised funds in partnership with New Hope Baptist Church for Jamaica hurricane relief. It was special to witness new U.S. Army recruits being sworn in right on the ice as well.
Shoutout to Danbury Police Cadets, Sadat Hoo who is going to off to serve our nation! Thank you isn’t enough!
Plus an overtime shootout win for the home team! Great to see so many people out to support. Special thanks to my former Danbury Student and Business Connection mentee, Dylan who surprised me with a nomination as a hometown champion. So proud of that guy for everything he continues to achieve! |
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On what would have been his 74th birthday on Jan. 28, I held onto the memories of my Dad, smiling and at peace in the place that meant everything to him: his birthplace, Fazenda Vista Alegre (Happy Vista Farm), where he later built his beloved Sítio Modelo (Model Ranch).
His absence is felt every single day, but so is his love. |
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My aunt recently shared that my paternal grandfather, Miguel Pereira Santiago, also loved wearing a nice hat. She sent me these vintage photos I had never seen before.
He passed away one year and one day before I was born, but his legacy lives loudly. Married my grandmother, together they raised 13 children, later losing a beloved daughter (seen in the first picture with him), was elected the first Mayor of Sobralia, Minas Gerais (the city he helped found), and was known for his compassion and service to others.
I wish I had met him and I hope to live up to his legacy. |
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| Flag Raising for Black History Month |
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| Join us and the Danbury NAACP for a flag raising in commemoration of Black History Month on Feb. 7. |
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| Women's Grant Opportunities |
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The Women’s Business Development Council (WBDC) announced the next round of Ignite and Child Care Business Grant Programs.
The Ignite Grant Program is designed to help women-owned businesses grow. The program offers grants of up to $10,000 to women-owned businesses in the state of Connecticut who have been in business for 2 or more years and have revenues between $25,000 and $2 million. The application period for Ignite grants runs from Feb. 3 through March 18. You can find additional information on Ignite here.
The Child Care Business Opportunity Fund, offered in partnership with the Connecticut Office of Early Childhood (OEC), provides grants of up to $25,000 to qualified licensed and aspiring child care businesses. The program offers grants targeting different stages of business, from start-ups to those ready to expand. The application period for Child Care Business grants runs from Feb. 1 through Feb. 28. You can find more information on the Child Care Business Opportunity Fund grants here.
Information sessions for both grant programs are scheduled throughout the application periods. These sessions will help applicants understand the grant requirements and provide an opportunity for those interested to ask questions about the grants. Interested applicants can register for a live information session here. |
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| Back in Session Next Week |
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The House will be back in session Wednesday, Feb. 4. My colleagues and I are gearing up for a busy short session, working hard to pass critical legislation through May 6.
Follow along at CT-N.com and stay tuned here for updates! |
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Sincerely,
Farley Santos |
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