Karen Reddington-Hughes

State Rep. Karen Reddington-Hughes and State Sen. Stephen Harding Celebrate Local Staple

Very few things stand the test of time. For the past 65 years, the Gooseboro Drive-In in Bantam has proven that good food, iced cream, and a warm family atmosphere are all you need. Today, State Senator Stephen Harding and State Representative Karen Reddington-Hughes presented Owner Bill Downes with a legislative citation to commemorate their more than six decades as a local Litchfield staple. Opened by Bob Hammer and his wife Judy on July 4, 1961, this roadside stand has served countless visitors from Connecticut and beyond. Sadly, their daughter Debbie and husband Bill are searching for someone who is interested in running this family business for the next generations to come. The lawmakers wish them well as they move on and hope someone out there is interested in carrying on this Route 202 legacy.

Rep. Reddington-Hughes Celebrates Impact Grant will have on Historic Farm Homestead

The Glebe House Museum & The Gertrude Jekyll Garden , home to where Samuel Seabury was elected first bishop after the Revolution is getting a $10,000 upgrade thanks to the 1776 Foundation and cooperation with Preservation Connecticut along with some amazing local donors. Today, State Representative Karen Reddington-Hughes had the opportunity to hear about the partnerships that are making this work possible and the exterior improvements that will most importantly, keep this historic building around for many years to come. Work on the building is planned for this Monday and will include a fresh coat of paint, essential repairs and other maintenance-related projects.

Rep. Reddington-Hughes Hosts Successful 'Bear Aware Forum' with DEEP

Despite having some of the lowest bear population, Connecticut has some of the highest percentage of home entries. There have been more entries this year (50) than all of last year, with DEEP estimating an increase in annual conflicts with roughly more than 3,500 reported conflicts this year. Over the last six years, DEEP has investigated and verified 265 occurrences of bears entering homes. During last night’s ‘Bear Aware Forum,’ DEEP discussed how bears are opportunistic hunters and spend the majority of their time trying to find food. So, bird feeders and garbage provide them with much needed calories they’d spend days foraging for. To avoid continued conflicts, DEEP recommends residents remove bird feeders, purchase bear proof garbage cans, and/or install electric fences. If you come in contact with a bear, it is suggested you safely yell, use an air horn, bear spray, or a paint ball gun to keep you/your family/your livestock safe. "Thank you to everyone who attended the forum and for remaining actively engaged in finding a solution," Rep. Reddington-Hughes said. "For several sessions I have tried for a bear management plan which benefits both bears and humans, because the way this is currently being handled does neither." If you weren't able to attend last night, but would like to look over DEEP's presentation, click here .

Rep. Reddington-Hughes Tours March Farm, Highlights Local Impact

The work of a CT farmer is labor intensive and ever changing as farms have pivoted and expanded in order to supply and meet the needs of their communities. After needing several attempts due to Mother Nature's uncooperative nature, State Representative Karen Reddington-Hughes had a chance to finally visit March Farm in Bethlehem and see the many ways they continue to stay ahead of the curve. Agra tourism baked goods (found in their farm store and bakery), and live concerts are just a few of the components of March Farm. Visitors can also pick their own blueberries, peaches, apples and pumpkins, when they are in season across 100 acres of orchards and fields. Not only are they a great community asset and great local partner, they're also amazing people. Later this month their farm will be hosting 'CT FARM STRONG,' an all-day event with live music, food, drinks, vendors, and fun, with proceeds going to "give farmers access to funds when they need them most, so they can overcome challenges, make necessary improvements, and keep their farms moving forward." (Flyer attached) If you haven't gotten a chance to see the farm for yourself, visit www.marchfarm.com for a list of other upcoming events, etc.

Annual Conservation Fundraiser Highlights New Land Acquisition, Protecting More Open Space

This past weekend I attended the Northwest Connecticut Land Conservancy's Midsummer Party for Conservation. Held annually, this event serves as an important fundraiser and opportunity to highlight the group's efforts to protect and maintain open space in our area. Their work is instrumental in ensuring these areas remain a place for residents to explore, wildlife to flourish, and where generations of visitors can come to enjoy our beautiful state. NCLC is currently working on four new nature preserves - Milde Farms Preserve in Litchfield (652 acres), Surdan Mountain Preserve in Sharon (108 acres), Ridgeline Preserve in Sherman (259 acres), and McEver Nature Preserve in North Canaan (245 acres). These preserves will total more than 1,100 more acres of protected space.