Kadeem Roberts

Did you know there's still time to collect your COVID relief money from 2021? If you're a Connecticut resident and have not received your COVID relief money, there's still time, but it's running out quickly. That's why United Way of Connecticut and its trusted partners will help you get the money you're owed. Whether it's COVID relief money or child credits, visit ctunitedway.org/getyourrefund to help you get your money. 

Halloween is right around the corner. Every year, kids look forward to planning their costumes and anticipating loads of candy, but for those with food allergies it can be scary!

Whether there is an allergen included in the ingredients or the risk of cross-contamination, many candies are off-limits for kids with food allergies.

The good news is that there are some tips for a safe trick-or-treating experience from Food Allergy Research & Education (FARE):

• Stock Up on Safe Alternatives: Have safe treats or inexpensive trinkets/toys ready to trade for any unsafe candies your child might receive while trick-or-treating. Use this opportunity to teach them about hidden allergens and reading labels.
• No Eating While Trick-or-Treating: Enforce a rule that no candy is eaten until you have reviewed all food labels.
• Avoid Unlabeled Treats: Steer clear of candy and treats that do not have an ingredient label.
• Carry an Epinephrine Auto-Injector: Always have an epinephrine auto-injector available if prescribed.
• Check Mini and Fun-Size Candies: Remember that mini-size, fun-size, or bite-size versions of candy may contain different ingredients than their full-size counterparts. Read all labels carefully.
• Focus on Fun: Emphasize the fun aspects of Halloween rather than the candy.
• Introduce the “Good Witch”: Start a tradition where kids leave their unsafe candies out for the “Good Witch” to collect and leave behind small gifts and safe treats.
• Prepare Safe Goody Bags: Make small and safe “goody bags” for neighbors to give to your child. Deliver the bags in advance and describe your child’s costume to your neighbors. Encourage your child to trick-or-treat at these houses.
• Host a Halloween Party: Consider skipping trick-or-treating and have a Halloween party instead, featuring safe and delicious treats. Alternatively, replace treats with fun Halloween toys, games, or party favors.
• Always Read Labels: A candy that has been safe in the past may now have different ingredients. Read the label every time.

ICYMI - The Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) is announcing that SBEA (Small Business Energy Advantage) roadway lighting replacement will be performed on I-95 in Stamford/Norwalk. This project is scheduled to be completed on Thursday, October 31.

LANE CLOSURE/DETOUR INFO

There will be alternating on I-95 north and southbound Monday, September 30 to Thursday, October 31, 2024, from 7:00 p.m. to 5:00 a.m. Signing patterns will be provided by State Forces and will guide motorists through the work zone.

Motorists should be aware that modifications or extensions to this schedule may become necessary due to weather delays or other unforeseen conditions. Motorists are advised to maintain a safe speed when driving in this area.