<p class="ql-align-center"><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">The GDCC is committed to keeping you informed, we have compiled this week’s key legislative developments that may impact businesses in our region.&nbsp;Email any questions or advocacy updates directly to&nbsp;</span><strong style="color: rgb(49, 95, 195);">Maura@DanburyChamber.com</strong><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">.</span></p><p class="ql-align-center"><img src="https://imgssl.constantcontact.com/letters/images/1101116784221/S.gif" height="1" width="5"><strong style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Greater Danbury Chamber Legislative Update: Advocating for Pro-Business Policy in Final Weeks of Session</strong></p><p class="ql-align-justify"><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">As the Connecticut General Assembly moves into the final weeks before its June 4 adjournment, floor activity has accelerated. All committees have concluded their work on legislation within their jurisdiction, and the Appropriations and Finance Committees have released their respective budget and tax proposals. Final budget negotiations between the Governor and legislative leaders are underway for implementation on July 1.</span></p><p class="ql-align-justify"><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">The Greater Danbury Chamber of Commerce (GDCC) continues to be a strong voice for the business community across Western Connecticut. We are actively monitoring and engaging on key legislative proposals that will impact our region’s employers, workforce, and economic vitality. Here's where we stand:</span></p><p class="ql-align-justify"><strong style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Support Tourism Investment in Greater Danbury</strong></p><p class="ql-align-justify"><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">The Greater Danbury Chamber of Commerce strongly supports the state’s renewed emphasis on tourism growth and productivity—an initiative that presents a powerful opportunity for our region and for Connecticut as a whole. As a dynamic dual market at the gateway to New England, Greater Danbury is uniquely positioned to leverage our hotels, restaurants, recreational, and drive small business growth, and boost economic vitality here is Western Connecticut.</span></p><p class="ql-align-justify"><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">We urge our GDCC business owners like you to reach out to your state legislators and ask them to&nbsp;</span><strong style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">increase tourism marketing funding</strong><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">. One practical solution is to dedicate&nbsp;</span><strong style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">20% of the existing Meals and Beverage Tax</strong><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">&nbsp;to tourism.</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Here’s why these matters:</span></p><ul><li class="ql-align-justify"><strong>Redirecting just 20% of the current Meals &amp; Beverage Tax would generate over $20 million annually</strong>&nbsp;for tourism marketing—without raising any existing taxes.</li><li class="ql-align-justify"><strong>None of the $107 million collected from the 1% Meals &amp; Beverage Tax in 2024 is currently reinvested in tourism</strong>—it all goes into the state’s general fund.</li><li class="ql-align-justify"><strong>Once this tax is in the general fund, it cannot be redirected to support our industry.</strong>&nbsp;Without action now, we lose the chance to use this revenue for vital tourism and hospitality initiatives.</li></ul><p class="ql-align-center"><strong style="color: rgb(192, 62, 48);">Your Voice Can Make the Difference!!</strong></p><p><strong style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Key Legislation of Interest to Greater Danbury Businesses</strong></p><ul><li><strong>Regulatory Flexibility for Small Businesses (SB 1402):</strong></li></ul><p class="ql-align-justify"><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">This bill requires state agencies to evaluate how new regulations would affect small businesses—including whether compliance would involve added record-keeping, employee benefits, or product changes. The Senate passed the bill, and it now awaits House action. GDCC supports this measure as a practical approach to ensuring small business sustainability in our region.</span></p><ul><li><strong>Energy Affordability for Employers (SB 1560):</strong></li></ul><p class="ql-align-justify">Rising electricity costs are a top concern for businesses in Greater Danbury. This bill would eliminate the sales tax on electricity for commercial and industrial properties, remove peak-use demand charges, and reduce the public benefit charge. GDCC advocates for revisions that make energy more affordable for Western Connecticut employers.</p><ul><li><strong>Workers’ Compensation Stability (HB 7141):</strong></li></ul><p class="ql-align-justify">In response to a recent court ruling that threatens decades of progress in stabilizing workers’ compensation costs, this bill aims to restore balance. The Chamber supports this legislation to avoid future premium spikes that could burden employers.</p><ul><li><strong>Expanding Data Privacy Mandates (SB 1356):</strong></li></ul><p class="ql-align-justify">GDCC is closely tracking this bill, which would significantly expand the Connecticut Data Privacy Act—potentially increasing compliance costs and regulatory complexity for local businesses and nonprofits.</p><ul><li><strong>Environmental Mandates (HB 5004):</strong></li></ul><p class="ql-align-justify">A top priority for House leadership, this bill sets aggressive new emissions targets and mandates zero-carbon electricity use by state agencies. GDCC is concerned about the downstream impact of these policies on local economic development and infrastructure planning in the Housatonic Valley and Western Connecticut.</p><ul><li><strong>Credit Card Swipe Fee Reform (SB 1460):</strong></li></ul><p class="ql-align-justify">This proposal would have reduced the cost burden on small businesses by excluding taxes from interchange fee calculations. While GDCC supports this bill, although strong industry opposition led to its failure in the Finance Committee. We will continue to advocate for solutions that reduce transaction costs for retailers and service providers in our area.</p><p><strong style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Act Now: Your Voice Matters</strong></p><p class="ql-align-justify"><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">As the session nears its conclusion, legislative language can shift quickly, and bills may be amended or revived with little notice. GDCC urges its members to stay engaged by tracking bills that matter to you and your business here:&nbsp;</span><a href="https://4cqklybab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001auvQmTG6eQJQfTNMBwizuO3MrlMhZRQ-LB5DhCcu0WY2rpDNR9Im-nEu6OFL3sdrUL7FmLt6hPk71bGWIk8h-7bphyDek3uur5p_Y02fscZ_gt1REnp5kanzQ051-9v-xqeNMDBi6DzZdF-8f3jsgC0E6frs4yAt_YY_Ga2fAL-_lcGNg1PN-F5iAlLmS_n-&amp;c=5p18YAQ4yCMnvpIdX_wtirwyYjdsLGo839sb1QqVHSxEVv5uFIWydA==&amp;ch=7yKmyD8uYoh8L6jISgXJnU1HtlljCJ8TM-yRyD8TWXl9y5_80inahA==" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(54, 97, 189);"><strong>Legislative - Greater Danbury Chamber of Commerce - Greater Danbury Chamber of Commerce</strong></a><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">&nbsp;and contact your local legislators about the bills that impact our region’s economy. We remain committed to representing the interests of Greater Danbury’s diverse business community—from manufacturing and healthcare to hospitality, retail, and tech.</span></p><p class="ql-align-justify"><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">For questions or assistance reaching your legislator, contact the Chamber office.</span></p><p class="ql-align-center"><strong style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">**Let’s make sure the Greater Danbury region is well represented!**</strong></p><p><br></p>

<p><em style="color: rgb(41, 41, 41);">Join Us for a Day of Fun, Prizes, and Support for Our Furry Friends!</em></p><p><span style="color: black;">Rock n' Rescue is excited to announce our annual Golf FORE the Animals tournament on Wednesday, June 18, at the beautiful Richter Park Golf Course in Danbury. This event promises an afternoon of friendly competition, community spirit, and, most importantly, support for our mission to rescue and adopt animals in need. </span></p><p><span style="color: black;">Golf enthusiasts and animal lovers alike are invited to participate in a day filled with excitement, featuring exclusive prizes, including a thrilling $10,000 hole-in-one contest! Additionally, every person has a chance to win a luxurious 5-day, 4-night cruise, guaranteed for one lucky participant! </span></p><p><span style="color: black;">After a day on the greens, join us for cocktails and dinner, where you can connect with fellow supporters and learn more about our efforts to save pets and people. We are looking for golfers, sponsors or just folks joining for dinner if they don’t golf.</span></p><p><span style="color: black;">Event Details:</span></p><p><span style="color: black;">Date: Wednesday, June 18 </span></p><p><span style="color: black;">Location: Richter Park Golf Course, Danbury, CT </span></p><p><span style="color: black;">Tee Time: 1 PM </span></p><p><span style="color: black;">Cocktails &amp; Dinner: 5:30 PM</span></p><p><span style="color: black;">&nbsp;All proceeds from the tournament will go directly toward the rescuing, care and support of our cats and dogs. Whether you're a seasoned golfer or a novice, your participation makes a difference in the lives of these animals. For more information and to register for the tournament, please visit </span><a href="https://rocknrescuegolf.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: black;">https://rocknrescuegolf.com</a><span style="color: black;"> or contact us at 914-774-8423. </span></p><p><span style="color: black;">Join us for a day on the course that will help us rock the world of rescue! Together, we can make a meaningful impact for our furry friends in need.</span></p><p><strong style="color: rgb(17, 141, 255);">&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>DANBURY, Connecticut — The&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wcsu.edu/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Western Connecticut State University</a>&nbsp;Media Arts Film Festival &amp; Digital Interactive Exhibition returns to the WCSU Midtown campus on&nbsp;Friday, May 16. In its 11th&nbsp;year, the popular festival showcases the best student works from the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wcsu.edu/dima/mediaproduction/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Media Arts Production, Digital &amp; Interactive Media Arts</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wcsu.edu/art/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Art</a>&nbsp;programs at WCSU.</p><p>The event takes place in the Student Center on the WCSU Midtown campus, 181 White St. in Danbury. The evening will begin with a 6 p.m. reception and Digital Interactive Media Arts Exhibition in the Student Center lobby, and a 7 p.m. film screening and awards ceremony in the Student Center Theater. The festival is free and open to the public; formal attire is encouraged, but not required. There will be hot and sweet refreshments and a cash bar during the reception.</p><p>Sponsored by the <a href="https://www.wcsu.edu/communication-media-arts/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Department of Communication &amp; Media Arts</a>, the event will culminate with awards for the best short films, documentaries, news, screenplays, animation, interactive media, soundscapes and more. The judging panel includes faculty, media professionals and WCSU alumni.</p><p>For more information, contact Dr. JC Barone at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:baronej@wcsu.edu" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">baronej@wcsu.edu</a>&nbsp;or Communications and Marketing at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:pr@wcsu.edu" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">pr@wcsu.edu</a>.</p>

<h2><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Local Business Champion: </span><a href="https://mvpguttersroofing.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">MVP Gutter and Roofing&nbsp;</a></h2><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Meet Valeska Bernal, founder of MVP Gutters and Roofing.</span></p><p><strong style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 17, 17);">Why did you start your business?</strong></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">We started our business as a continuation of a proud family tradition. For generations, our family has owned and operated gutter companies, passing down not just skills, but a deep-rooted commitment to quality workmanship and honest service. Growing up in that environment, we learned the value of hard work, integrity, and treating every customer like family. When it came time to take the next step, we decided to expand the family trade by moving into the roofing industry. It felt like a natural evolution—building on our legacy while meeting a broader range of needs for the homeowners and communities we serve. Our business is more than a job—it's our family's passion and purpose.</span></p><p><strong style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 17, 17);">What is your best-selling product or service?</strong></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">As a family-owned business rooted in generations of craftsmanship, we proudly offer complete exterior solutions with a focus on quality, reliability, and style. Our services include custom gutter installations in a wide variety of styles—ranging from standard K-style to half-round, European, and commercial-grade systems. We also specialize in asphalt roofing for both residential and commercial properties, backed by a 10-year workmanship warranty on all roof replacements. As GAF-certified contractors, we bring industry-leading standards and trusted expertise to every project, ensuring lasting protection and peace of mind for our customers.</span></p><p><strong style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 17, 17);">Have you "reimagined" your small business?</strong></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">We have stayed true to the values our family has always believed in—honesty, quality, and fair pricing. As a small, family-owned company, we don’t carry the overhead that big corporations do, so we don’t believe in inflating prices just to boost profits. Instead, we focus on delivering real value—quality work at a fair rate, with transparency every step of the way. Our goal isn’t to make a quick buck; it’s to build lasting relationships with our customers and be the kind of company people can genuinely trust."&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">MVP Gutters and Roofing is located at 3 Robins Lane in Brookfield. Call</span></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">203-628-6914 go online </span><a href="https://mvpguttersroofing.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">https://mvpguttersroofing.com/</a><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"> and follow along on </span><a href="https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61558166075626&amp;mibextid=wwXIfr&amp;rdid=JpqpjoWMWQyY7PWR&amp;share_url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fshare%2F15HvZtsgwL%2F%3Fmibextid%3DwwXIfr#" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">Facebook </a><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">and Instagram @</span><a href="https://www.instagram.com/themvpguttersandroffing" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">themvpguttersandroffing</a></p><p><br></p>

<p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Get ready to tee it up in style. The nonprofit USA Junior Golf Federation is proud to partner with Midspring women’s golf apparel to host a fun-filled Women’s Golf Day celebration on Sunday, June 1, on The National short course at The Golf Performance Center.</span></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Midspring, co-founded by childhood best friends and Ridgefield High School grads Meredith (Maher) Carmody and Shannon (Galowski) Arniel, blends performance with polish. Their high-quality line of women’s golf apparel transitions effortlessly from the course to the everyday.</span></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">“Our line is designed with three pillars at the foundation of all of our styles: performance functionality, flattering fits and fashion femininity. We appeal to the most experienced of players as well as the novice recreational golfer and have clientele spanning all ages and stages. Regardless of your level of play, we hope our styles make you feel confident as you move throughout your day from the course, to courts, to calls, to carpools, to cocktails and everywhere in between,” says Carmody.</span></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Women’s Golf Day isn’t just swings and putts—it’s a Sunday well spent. Think good company, a little golf guidance, tasty bites, bubbly in hand, and a breezy 9-hole round on The National. Guests will also have the chance to shop Midspring’s latest collection and enjoy a mimosa bar and brunch bites throughout the morning.</span></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Grab your girls, your clubs, and make your way to The Golf Performance Center for a morning of fun, fashion, and fresh air. Whether you're a seasoned player or just golf-curious, this event is a great way to get into the game—or just enjoy a mimosa while browsing some great gear. No clubs? No problem. Registration is required to play, no need to register if you’re just stopping by to sip and shop.</span></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">"We’re thrilled to partner with Midspring to promote Women’s Golf Day! We want to work together to engage, empower and support girls and women through golf to build a foundation that creates a network to support the continuation of golf no matter what skill level while engaging in a charitable cause at a local level,” says Kim Genzburg, Executive Director of USA Junior Golf Federation.</span></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">The National, a 9-hole course designed for speed and enjoyment, offers a refreshing take on the game—quick enough to play in under 40 minutes and open for public play. Located at 824 Ethan Allen Highway in Ridgefield, The Golf Performance Center is changing how we play, learn, and love golf.A portion of the event proceeds from Midspring sales will support the USA Junior Golf</span></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Federation’s scholarship program at The Golf Performance Academy.</span></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Register here:</span><a href="https://thegolfperformancecenter.com/womens-golf-day/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">&nbsp;</a><a href="https://thegolfperformancecenter.com/womens-golf-day" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">https://thegolfperformancecenter.com/womens-golf-day/</a></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">About Midspring</span></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Midspring creates refined, functional golf apparel for women who want to feel comfortable, capable, and confident. Designed to transition seamlessly from a morning on the green to the rest of your day, Midspring is committed to celebrating the everyday athlete in every woman. Learn more</span><a href="https://midspringsport.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">&nbsp;</a><a href="https://midspringsport.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">https://midspringsport.com/</a></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">About USA Junior Golf Federation</span></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">A 501(C)3 non-profit organization dedicated to fostering and educating the next generation of aspiring junior golf athletes. The Federation is committed to providing junior golfers at The Golf Performance Academy with the financial assistance and support they may need to enable them to excel on their way to playing collegiate golf and beyond. Learn more here (I don't know how to embed the link :) )</span><a href="https://usajuniorgolffederation.org/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">&nbsp;</a><a href="https://usajuniorgolffederation.org" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">https://usajuniorgolffederation.org/</a></p>

<p>Thomas C. Rafter, 59, of Danbury, formerly of Port Chester, NY, life partner of Phyllis Boughton of Danbury, died on Monday, April 28, 2025 at the Regional Hospice and Home Care Center, Danbury.</p><p>Mr. Rafter was born in Jackson Heights, Queens, New York on January 3,1966 a son of Patrick D. and Virginia (Triolo) Rafter.&nbsp;He attended New York schools and was a graduate of the Culinary Institute of America.</p><p>A professional chef by trade, Mr. Rafter was a general manager with Restaurant Associates by Compass Group, N.A.</p><p>Tom’s number one joy was cooking, entertaining and caring for all his family and friends.&nbsp;He was a giver and not a taker, always sharing a smile and a kind word with everyone he met.&nbsp;In fact, he would much rather give than receive.</p><p>In addition, he enjoyed gardening and spending time in his backyard with nature.&nbsp;</p><p>He loved the ocean and found solace by the sea.</p><p>He was a great man who touched many hearts.</p><p>He was a member of Friends of Bill.</p><p>In addition to his life partner Phyllis Boughton, he is survived by his step-mother, Lucy Rafter, two brothers. Patrick Rafter and James Rafter as well as several nieces and nephews.</p><p>In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by a brother Robert Rafter.</p><p><strong>A Celebration of Life will be announced.</strong></p><p><strong>Burial will take place in the Cemetery of the Resurrection, Staten Island, New York.</strong></p><p><strong>There will be no calling hours.</strong></p><p><strong>Contribution in his memory may be made to the Families Network of Western CT, 5 Library Place, Danbury, CT 06810</strong></p>