Danbury’s much-loved “Downtown Chowdown” food truck event is back this spring, offering a delectable array of culinary delights for folks to enjoy. Hosted by CityCenter Danbury in collaboration with the city, the event will run from today to June 27, every Thursday from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. on the CityCenter Green. With an enticing lineup of food trucks including Cousins Lobster, Dish It Right Here, Twins BBQ, and more, attendees can savor diverse cuisines while soaking in great live music and community vibes.

Danbury City Council has adjusted stipulations for Halas Farm owner, former city council member Michael Halas, who is accused of illegal dumping. The requirement for a chain link fence is now replaced by planting trees to define property lines. Halas meanwhile, denies awareness of any agreement and alleges a political attack.

Ridgefield welcomes Caitlin Walsh, a math coach from Westport, as the new assistant principal at Barlow Mountain Elementary School. Walsh, with over 20 years of experience in education, brings a wealth of knowledge and dedication to the role. Her appointment signifies a commitment to fostering academic excellence and building strong community relationships.

Danbury Mayor Roberto Alves and the city are excited to announce the return of Clean City Danbury Day. It happens this Saturday morning from 8 to noon. It’s your chance to dispose of unwanted items for free! Danbury residents can drop off bulk garbage at five locations including City Hall and P.A.L. No hazardous waste or electronics, though you can drop off electronics at Oak Ridge’s Mom & Pop Center on White Street. Want to volunteer? Sign up HERE Or call Farley Santos at 203-797-4511

The Connecticut State Capitol was placed on lockdown after Hartford Police received a violent threat on Tuesday afternoon. Law enforcement swiftly responded, with armed state troopers stationed outside entrances. Despite the tense situation, legislative activities continued inside, with staff and visitors carrying on as usual. The threat, received at approximately 3:20pm yesterday, claimed the presence of a person armed with a weapon and possibly explosives on the Capitol grounds. Authorities conducted thorough searches, including deploying bomb-sniffing dogs. After ensuring the safety of the complex, normal security measures were reinstated, and operations resumed without further incident.

Join the Danbury Cultural Commission for a FREE neighborhood walk THIS SATURDAY along Main Street Danbury. Celebrating Jane Jacobs Weekend, you’ll explore the history of Main Street and its 9 theaters. From Keeler Street to Elm Street, share stories as the group strolls past landmarks like the Capitol, Princess, and the grand Opera House. The tour starts SATURDAY MORNING at 10 from 256 Main Street. Wear comfy shoes, dress for the weather, and bring sunscreen and water. Space is limited so sign up online at https://DanburyArts.com NO LATER THAN FRIDAY.

A Danbury man’s legal troubles continue as he faces additional prison time for violating the terms of his release. 58 year old Paul Mignani was sentenced to 18 months in federal prison for breaching supervised release conditions stemming from a 2017 narcotics conviction. Authorities discovered narcotics and firearms during a court-authorized search of his residence in September 2022. Mignani, who had previously been ordered to serve a 60-month prison term followed by supervised release, now faces 15 years behind bars, suspended after six years, on state charges.

In New Milford, a local nonprofit organization’s employee faces charges of misusing clients’ funds. 37 year old Jonathan Vicente is accused of first-degree larceny, allegedly taking $20,000 over a period of more than a year. The organization, Ability Beyond, initiated an investigation after reports surfaced, leading to Vicente’s arrest. Despite his denial of the allegations, he is no longer employed with the organization, and the funds have been restored to those affected. Vicente has been released on a $75,000 bond and is set to appear in court on May 16.

A popular frozen pizza product has been recalled due to misbranding and undeclared allergens. 802 VT Frozen is recalling over 4 tons of its frozen meat pizza, which contains soy not listed on the label. The product was distributed in several Northeastern states, including Connecticut. Consumers are advised not to consume it and to contact the USDA Meat and Poultry Hotline with any concerns.

A former New Milford resident pleaded guilty in Hartford federal court to federal tax charges. 71 year old Kevin Biebel operated a metal fabrication business and failed to report over $2.8 million in income between 2016 and 2020, resulting in a tax loss of approximately $900,000. He also neglected to withhold and pay around $300,000 in employment taxes and failed to file individual income tax returns for three consecutive years. Biebel… who now lives in Hardeeville, South Carolina… fraudulently reported zero income and zero tax due. He faces a maximum prison sentence of three years and agreed to pay over $1.2 million in restitution.