STAMFORD — Kids Helping Kids has appointed Edith Targonski as its new executive director, effective Monday. She replaces Jennifer Bentley, who left to become director of student and family programming for Horizon at New Canaan Country School.
She joins the Stamford-based nonprofit as an experienced community leader who will guide the organization’s next chapter of youth empowerment.
A longtime Stamford resident, Targonski brings extensive experience in community leadership, youth development, and nonprofit collaboration throughout Fairfield County. She has spent her career working alongside families, schools, and local organizations to strengthen communities and expand opportunities for young people.
“Kids Helping Kids embodies the belief that young people are not just future leaders—they are leaders right now,” Targonski said. “I am honored to join an organization that centers youth voice and empowers kids to create meaningful change. I look forward to working alongside our young leaders, families, and partners to strengthen our impact across the community.”
The Kids Helping Kids’ board of directors Chair Bobby Walker Jr. expressed strong enthusiasm for Edith’s appointment and the organization’s future under her leadership.
“Her deep connection to Stamford, passion for youth empowerment, and proven leadership make her the right person to lead Kids Helping Kids into its next chapter,” Walker said. “We are confident that with Edith at the helm, the organization will continue to grow, innovate, and expand its impact for years to come.”
Unions, state officials back worker retention bill
HARTFORD – Unions representing service employees, hospitality, gaming, manufacturing and other workers and state officials Tuesday announced their support for a worker retention bill.
Led by state Treasurer Erick Russell, state Sen. Julie Kushner (D-Danbury) and state Rep. Manny Sanchez (D-New Britain) joined 32BJ SEIU, 1199 SEIU and Unite Here Local 217 at a press conference for legislation to protect workers who face job loss when clients switch subcontractors , or there is a sale of their worksite building.
The bill, which is included in the omnibus House Bill, HB 5003, and will be introduced as its own stand-alone Senate bill SB 358, would protect workers’ jobs for a set amount of time following a change in contractor at their worksite and require employers to provide sufficient notice ahead of such a change.
“Many of the grievances that come our way are from workers who’ve been displaced because a building has replaced a responsible contractor with an irresponsible one. With this law, we’re saying loud and clear: no more.” said Rochelle Palache, vice president and Connecticut District leader, 32BJ SEIU.
Under current Connecticut state law, workers employed by building-service contractors have no legal right to keep their roles if the contractor changes or their building is sold, and the new employer decides to abruptly replace an entire workforce. While it is standard practice in the industry to keep on the existing, experienced workforce, some irresponsible contractors “clean house” to cut labor costs.
“Unite Here members across the state of Connecticut benefit from worker retention language like the language proposed in this bill,” said Josh Stanley, secretary treasurer of Unite Here Local 217. “All Connecticut workers, whether they are unionized or not, deserve the same protections. This bill will ensure skilled workers keep their jobs. It is good for workers, good for business and good for our great state.”
Shelton restaurant recalls Cavatelli due to allergies
HARTFORD — The Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection Food and Standards Division on Tuesday warned the public that CM Aloi LLC, doing business as Il Palio Restaurant, of Shelton is recalling Cavatelli due to undeclared milk and eggs.
Customers who have an allergy or severe sensitivity to milk and egg are at risk of serious or life-threatening allergic reactions if they consume these products.
The affected pasta was sold in a 16-ounce, clear plastic package marked with UPC 51497 24882.
The recalled products were distributed to:
- Shop Rite, 935 Boston Post Road, Milford
- Big Y: 401 Bridgeport Ave, Shelton
- Walter Stewart’s Market: 229 Elm St., New Canaan
One possible illness has been reported to date.
Consumers who purchased the affected Cavatelli from Il Palio are urged to return the product to the place of purchase for a full refund. Consumers with questions may contact the company at (203) 944-0770.
