Connecticut
JewQ finalists compete in Connecticut, inspiring unity across borders
The JewQ International Championship event spelling bee-style finale event took place in Stamford, Connecticut on Monday 8 April. The event took place against the backdrop of the October 7 attacks and on the Jewish traditions connected to the Holy Land, the International Jewish Knowledge Championship announced.
The competition, which transformed the Connecticut town into a vibrant hub of Jewish learning for the event, hosted the finalists, their families, and friends from various countries. During the competition, the finalists demonstrated their mastery of many topics related to Jewish tradition and culture.
The competition included questions from notable figures such as Chani Klein, a Chabad representative, an IDF paratrooper unit commander, and an Israeli farmer who asked questions regarding their respective fields of expertise.
As part of the event, an educational video was shown, which illustrated the historical and religious connection the Jewish people have to the Holy Land, focusing on the significance of this connection.
Another feature of the event was a game show-like competition for the finalists on topics that relate to the biblical text.
Celebrating Jewish heritage
Chabad Headquarters’ Rabbi Mendy Kotlarsky said “In today’s environment, where Jewish children face undue challenges, it’s critical to empower our youth with the confidence that comes from deep-rooted knowledge and understanding of their heritage,” in the report. The Rabbi added that “everyone … had a strong feeling of positivity and hopefulness for a bright Jewish future.”
The game show feature of the event was won by Team Torah, after a close match with Team Mitzvot, who were celebrated on stage and awarded with a plaque.
The competition, which was also broadcast online and viewed by hundreds remotely – in addition to over 50,000 in person at the event, brought communities together to cheer the finalists.
The award ceremony at the end of the competition was carried by Rabbi Mendy, who crowned the Ultimate JewQ Champions from different grade levels, some of them were Daniel Marquez from Canada, Naomi Cohen from New York, Yael Jontof-Hutter from California, Isabella Gupta from California, and Stella Tolin from Massachusetts.
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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