Connecticut
Connecticut National Guard families come together for annual holiday event
HARTFORD, CT (WFSB) — On Saturday morning, families of the Connecticut National Guard gathered for an annual event designed to provide support and comfort during the holiday season.
Operation Embracing Lonely Families has been a tradition for 23 years, offering much-needed support to military families separated from loved ones who are deployed.
The event focuses on easing some of the financial burden and emotional stress that military families face during deployments, especially during the holidays.
“It’s an enjoyment because it brings everyone closer during the holiday so they can still be around their family too,” said Newton Maldonado, a National Guard soldier.
One of the attendees, Nicole Scalora, whose husband was recently deployed to Africa for a year, shared the challenges of military life.
“It’s tough. We have to take it one day at a time. Doing everything at home by yourself, not having that shoulder to rely on can be difficult. But I have a lot of family and a lot of support, so that helped a lot. Also, the military is constantly reaching out. Making sure that we’re good and that if we need help, they’re there,” she said.
Saturday’s event included treats and toys for the families, as well as a visit from Santa Claus.
The tradition, which began under former Governor Jodi Rell and continued by each subsequent Lieutenant Governor, has become a symbol of appreciation for those who serve and their families.
While this year’s ceremony was smaller in scale, organizers are expecting the event to grow significantly next year, with nearly 800 families anticipated to attend.
These families are affected by the various deployments of National Guard members overseas.
Lieutenant Governor Susan Bysiewicz expressed her gratitude, noting, “, I’m really glad for the people of Connecticut that our celebration is rather small, because it means our national guard families are here at home celebrating.”
The event remains an important opportunity for the community to come together and honor the sacrifices made by military families throughout Connecticut.
Copyright 2024 WFSB. All rights reserved.
WETHERSFIELD, Conn. (WFSB) – A tractor trailer’s diesel fuel saddle tank ruptured on I-91 north between exits 25 and 27, state police said.
Approximately 25 to 30 gallons of fuel was released to the road surface, according to the state Department of Energy and Environmental Protection. No ground soil or waterways were involved, DEEP said.
The two right lanes were closed, according to the state Department of Transportation.
No other vehicles were involved and no injuries were reported, state police said.
Wethersfield Fire Department solidified the diesel fuel on the ground surface with Speedy Dry, DEEP said. An environmental cleanup contractor was en route for cleanup.
Copyright 2026 WFSB. All rights reserved.
WESTPORT — A two-vehicle crash on Interstate 95 caused a traffic slowdown stretching for miles into Fairfield Friday afternoon, according to state officials.
The crash scene has since been cleared.
Connecticut State Police said the two-car crash was reported near Exit 17 in the southbound lanes at 3:03 p.m.
One driver was taken to the hospital for reported injuries, the agency said.
The crash closed the right lane of the highway, causing cars and trucks to be backed up for miles along I-95 into Fairfield, traffic cameras showed.
This is a developing story and will be updated as more information becomes available.
Connecticut
Joe Deko Appointed to State Legislature’s Group Studying Prepaid Funeral Contracts to Protect Consumers
- Reviewing contract structures: Examining issues related to pre-need funeral contracts and cremation service agreements.
- Strengthening oversight: Recommending stronger consumer protections and improvements to state regulation of the funeral services industry.
- Developing compensation mechanisms: Creating rules for distributing funds to affected consumers and exploring the framework for a future industry-backed guarantee fund.
Deko took to Facebook to share the news.
“I am honored to announce my appointment to the Connecticut State working group focused on reviewing and strengthening Connecticut’s prepaid funeral laws.
This important effort brings together professionals and stakeholders committed to ensuring that prepaid funeral arrangements continue to serve and protect Connecticut families while maintaining the highest standards within our profession.
I am grateful for the opportunity to contribute my experience and perspective to this process and look forward to working collaboratively with fellow members of the group.
A special thank you to Senator Paul Cicarella for his confidence in me and for entrusting me with this appointment. Your support and leadership are greatly appreciated. I look forward to helping shape thoughtful policies that will benefit Connecticut families and the funeral profession for years to come.”
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