Daily Voice Readers’ Choice

Accepting Votes Now Through Friday, December 20th

ChatGPT Goes Down, X Users Coming In Hot With Memes ChatGPT Goes Down, X Users Coming In Hot With Memes
ChatGPT Goes Down, X Users Coming In Hot With Memes Hours after a Meta outage left Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp users in the dark, ChatGPT seems to be following suit. Users of the AI website began experiencing technical difficulties sometime around 8 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 11. A message on the website as of 9:20 p.m. reads: "ChatGPT is currently unavailable. Status: Identified - We have identified the issue and are working to roll out a fix." Naturally, X users had a field day. #ChatGPT is down. Looks like everyone will have to finish their assignments the old fashioned way. pic.twitter.com/68xVq9DNf8 — Xon Kurama (@XonKurama) D…
Child-Like Doll Found In CT Home Of 3X Sex Offender Facing Decade In Prison, Feds Say Child-Like Doll Found In CT Home Of 3X Sex Offender Facing Decade In Prison, Feds Say
Child-Like Doll Found In CT Home Of 3X Sex Offender Facing Decade In Prison, Feds Say A Derby man will spend more than 11 years in federal prison for a disturbing child exploitation case — his third conviction involving children — and violations of his supervised release, federal authorities said. Michael Szwarc, 36, was sentenced to 134 months of imprisonment, along with 25 years of supervised release, the U.S. Attorney for Connecticut said. Szwarc was previously convicted in 2013 in state court for possession of child sexual abuse material in the second degree, and again in 2022 in federal court for receiving such material, authorities said. ** WARNING: The following news…
Just Released New iOS Update Brings AI, Custom Emoji Access To iPhones, iPads Just Released New iOS Update Brings AI, Custom Emoji Access To iPhones, iPads
Just Released New iOS Update Brings AI, Custom Emoji Access To iPhones, iPads Apple has unveiled new updates that bring advanced AI and emoji tools to its iPhone and iPad devices.  Released on Wednesday, Dec. 11, iOS 18.2, iPadOS 18.2, and macOS Sequoia 15.2 expand Apple Intelligence with features like ChatGPT integration, custom emoji creation, and visual design tools. Key Updates ChatGPT Integration: Siri and Writing Tools now support ChatGPT for generating content, solving problems, and enhancing productivity. Privacy settings ensure user control over data. Image Playground: This tool allows users to design custom visuals by inputting text descriptions, wit…
Readers’ Choice: Cast Your Votes for Fairfield County’s Best! Readers’ Choice: Cast Your Votes for Fairfield County’s Best!
Readers’ Choice: Cast Your Votes for Fairfield County’s Best! Fairfield County, it’s time to show some love for your favorite local businesses! Daily Voice has officially launched the voting phase of its inaugural Readers’ Choice competition, and the power is in your hands to crown the best of the best. Our readers submitted nominations earlier this fall, and now the top contenders are ready for your votes. With over 80 categories spanning six major groups, this is your chance to celebrate the local gems that make Fairfield County a vibrant place to live, work, and play. From the tastiest eats to top-notch services, your vote can help highlight the bu…
CT-Owned Cars Were Clocked At 113 MPH, Now This Law Firm Is Investigating: See The Contract CT-Owned Cars Were Clocked At 113 MPH, Now This Law Firm Is Investigating: See The Contract
Ct-owned Cars Were Clocked At 113 MPH, Now This Law Firm Is Investigating: See The Contract Gov. Ned Lamont has hired a law firm to investigate the alleged misuse of two state-owned vehicles following a report that an SUV and sedan driven by members of his staff were driven for personal use and at speeds above 100 miles per hour, Daily Voice has learned. Lamont on Tuesday, Dec. 10 signed a contract with the Hartford law firm of Shipman & Goodwin LLP to collect and review relevant records, mileage reports, and other documentation and report their findings and recommendations, according to the contract (see attached) obtained by Daily Voice. The investigation will be helmed …
Ex-Abercrombie CEO Asks Judge To Rule On Mental Fitness Ahead Of Sex Trafficking Trial Ex-Abercrombie CEO Asks Judge To Rule On Mental Fitness Ahead Of Sex Trafficking Trial
Ex-Abercrombie CEO Asks Judge To Rule On Mental Fitness Ahead Of Sex Trafficking Trial Former Abercrombie & Fitch CEO Michael Jeffries is hoping to delay his federal sex trafficking case. An attorney for the 80-year-old Jeffries filed a motion on Monday, Dec. 9, asking a Manhattan judge to schedule a hearing to determine whether Jeffries is mentally competent to stand trial. “[The motion] will be dealt with in court as, and when, appropriate – according to the judge,” Jeffries’ attorney, Brian Bieber, told Daily Voice. Federal prosecutors are expected to challenge the move, potentially delaying the case by months. An indictment unsealed in October accused Jeffries of pr…
Road Rage Attack: CT Man Assaults Elderly Driver, Smashes Phone in Brookfield, Police Say Road Rage Attack: CT Man Assaults Elderly Driver, Smashes Phone in Brookfield, Police Say
Road Rage Attack: CT Man Assaults Elderly Driver, Smashes Phone in Brookfield, Police Say A 78-year-old Connecticut man returned home with a smashed car, a broken cell phone, and a swollen face after a road rage assault sparked by a lane-merging dispute, police said. Jason Paul Maisonave, of New Milford, was arrested and faces multiple charges stemming from the incident just before noon on Friday, Dec. 7, on Route 7 in Brookfield, according to Connecticut State Police. The victim told police he was changing lanes near Exit 11 when a blue BMW accelerated to block him from merging. The BMW driver then cut in front of the man’s car and slammed on the brakes, causing the victim to s…
'Social Club' Noise Complaint Leads To Illegal Alcohol Arrests In CT, Police Say 'Social Club' Noise Complaint Leads To Illegal Alcohol Arrests In CT, Police Say
'Social Club' Noise Complaint Leads To Illegal Alcohol Arrests In CT, Police Say Three people are facing charges after Waterbury police discovered illegal alcohol sales at a social club over the weekend, police said. Members of the Waterbury Police Department’s Gang Task Force, working with the VICE and Intelligence Unit, were investigating establishments suspected of operating without proper permits when they responded to a loud noise complaint at the “Speedy Customs Membership Social Club” at 34 Gasparri Lane around 2:40 a.m., police said. Officers observed numerous vehicles in the parking lot and determined that alcohol was being sold on-site without the required per…
Meta Outages: Thousands Experiencing Issues With Facebook, Instagram, Other Platforms Meta Outages: Thousands Experiencing Issues With Facebook, Instagram, Other Platforms
Meta Outages: Thousands Experiencing Issues With Facebook, Instagram, Other Platforms Tens of thousands of Meta users are experiencing outages across its platforms. Just before 1 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 11, there were numerous reports of outages on Downdetector.com, including 69,000 on Instagram, over 1,000 on Facebook, and 10,000 on WhatsApp. Meta issued a statement on the outages on X at around 1:45 p.m. "We’re aware that a technical issue is impacting some users’ ability to access our apps," the statement said. "We’re working to get things back to normal as quickly as possible and apologize for any inconvenience." We’re aware that a technical issue is impacting some use…
Bah Humbug! MTA Closes Tap On SantaCon Boozing For Metro-North, LIRR Riders Bah Humbug! MTA Closes Tap On SantaCon Boozing For Metro-North, LIRR Riders
Bah Humbug! MTA Closes Tap On SantaCon Boozing For Metro-North, Lirr Riders If you’re planning to ho-ho-hop on a Metro-North, NJ Transit or LIRR train this SantaCon weekend, leave the spiked eggnog at home — the MTA and NJ Transit are implementing its annual booze ban. In preparation for SantaCon 2024, the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) has announced a 32-hour alcohol ban across all Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) and Metro-North Railroad trains and stations. The restriction will take effect at 4 a.m. on Saturday, Dec. 14, and remain in place until noon on Sunday, Dec. 15, aiming to ensure a safe and smooth ride for all passengers. “Our top priority is …
Know Any CT Homes With Amazing Holiday Lights? Help Us Find The Merriest Displays Know Any CT Homes With Amazing Holiday Lights? Help Us Find The Merriest Displays
Know Any CT Homes With Amazing Holiday Lights? Help Us Find The Merriest Displays Do you know someone who goes all out for the holidays? Daily Voice wants to see the best Christmas light displays in your neighborhood—and we need your help! Calling all holiday enthusiasts! The most wonderful time of the year is here, and Daily Voice is on the hunt for the most festive, over-the-top, and downright dazzling holiday decorations in the tri-state area (scroll down for instructions on how to submit). Whether it's a house covered in lights, an inflatable Santa village, or a synchronized music-and-lights extravaganza, we want to know where to find it! Is there a house on yo…
Stunning Photos Show Loaded Car Carrier Ablaze On I-95 In Westbrook Stunning Photos Show Loaded Car Carrier Ablaze On I-95 In Westbrook
Stunning Photos Show Loaded Car Carrier Ablaze On I-95 In Westbrook A loaded car carrier caught fire bringing traffic to a halt in the northbound lanes of I-95 in Westbrook Wednesday morning, Dec. 11, according to Connecticut State Police. Troopers from Troop F responded to the highway under the I-95 overpass near Exit 65 and Route 153 in Westbrook, forcing the closure of the highway. The flames spread to vehicles on the carrier but were quickly extinguished by firefighters, officials said. For safety, I-95 was shut down while fire crews worked at the scene. A heavy-duty wrecker was dispatched to remove the damaged vehicle, police said. The Clinton Vo…
CEO Murder: Luigi Mangione Notebook Detailing Shooting Plans Revealed, Reports Say CEO Murder: Luigi Mangione Notebook Detailing Shooting Plans Revealed, Reports Say
CEO Murder: Luigi Mangione Notebook Detailing Shooting Plans Revealed, Reports Say Luigi Nicholas Mangione, the 26-year-old accused of fatally shooting UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson, was found in possession of a handwritten manifesto that sheds light on his alleged motives.  CNN was first to report the discovery.  The three-page document opens with a confession and asserts that Mangione acted independently, according to a report published Wednesday morning, Dec. 11 by The New York Times. He condemns UnitedHealthcare's increasing market capitalization amid declining American life expectancy and criticizes corporations for exploiting the country for pr…
CT Schools Dismissing Early Due To Extreme Weather Conditions CT Schools Dismissing Early Due To Extreme Weather Conditions
CT Schools Dismissing Early Due To Extreme Weather Conditions Schools across Connecticut have announced early dismissals on Wednesday, Dec. 11 due to a storm that is expected to bring up to 60 mph winds and coastal flooding to parts of the state. The following districts are dismissing early: Bolton Public Schools Colchester Public Schools East Hampton Public Schools Groton Public Schools Marianapolis Prep. School (Thompson, CT) Montville Public Schools Preston Public Schools Stonington Public Schools Did we miss one? Email clevine@dailyvoice.com The National Weather Service has issued a High Wind Warning for southeast Connecticut, with south winds r…
CEO Murder: How A Hash Brown At McDonald's Ended Manhunt For Luigi Mangione CEO Murder: How A Hash Brown At McDonald's Ended Manhunt For Luigi Mangione
CEO Murder: How A Hash Brown At McDonald's Ended Manhunt For Luigi Mangione The rare times in which Luigi Nicholas Mangione removed his face mask may have been the main reason for his arrest for the murder of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson after a five-day manhunt. Click here for a new, updated story - CEO Murder: Luigi Mangione Notebook Detailing Shooting Plans Revealed, Reports Say In the first instance, Mangione was asked by a receptionist at a hostel in Manhattan's Upper West Side to remove the mask so she could compare his face to the photo on an allegedly fake ID. The 26-year-old Maryland native checked in there 10 days before the targeted shooti…
Power Outages Likely In These Areas As Storm Brings Strong Winds, Heavy Rain Power Outages Likely In These Areas As Storm Brings Strong Winds, Heavy Rain
Power Outages Likely In These Areas As Storm Brings Strong Winds, Heavy Rain A potent storm sweeping through the region will be accompanied by strong winds that could cause power outages. The storm, which is accompanying a cold front, is moving from the east on Tuesday night, Dec. 10, into Wednesday, Dec. 11, according to the National Weather Service. During the storm's height, there will be heavy rain and wind gusts between 25 and 30 miles per hour. Some areas, especially along coastal areas of the Northeast, could see gusts of between 50 and 70 mph and are where outages are most likely. They are displayed in orange in the first image above from Ac…
Krispy Kreme Serves Up $1 Dozens For This One Day Only Krispy Kreme Serves Up $1 Dozens For This One Day Only
Krispy Kreme Serves Up $1 Dozens For This One Day Only Krispy Kreme is bringing back its annual “Day of the Dozens” promotion, offering a dozen Original Glazed doughnuts for $1 with the purchase of any dozen doughnuts or a 16-count of Minis at regular price.  The offer is available for in-shop and drive-thru purchases, as well as online orders. The promotion will take place on Thursday, Dec. 12, at participating locations.  Customers can redeem the offer twice in-store or via drive-thru, while online orders are limited to one redemption using the promo code “DOZEN.” The promotion coincides with Krispy Kreme’s “Elf” Holiday Collectio…
Shoplifting Costs Retailers Billions: These Are Most Frequently Stolen Items Shoplifting Costs Retailers Billions: These Are Most Frequently Stolen Items
Shoplifting Costs Retailers Billions: These Are Most Frequently Stolen Items Shoplifting in the US is a costly epidemic, with retailers losing over $120 billion last year. The trend focuses on easily concealed, high-demand products at major retailers like Walmart and Target, posing a nationwide challenge for store owners and law enforcement. Electronics, health and beauty products, and food items are among the most commonly stolen goods, Capital One Shopping reports.  Small gadgets such as headphones and phone chargers, alongside over-the-counter medications and cosmetics, are frequent targets.  Alcohol, baby formula, and packaged meats are also popular …
Sandy Hook Families’ Backed Bid To Turn 'InfoWars' Into Satire Site Blocked By Bankruptcy Judge Sandy Hook Families’ Backed Bid To Turn 'InfoWars' Into Satire Site Blocked By Bankruptcy Judge
Sandy Hook Families’ Backed Bid To Turn 'InfoWars' Into Satire Site Blocked By Bankruptcy Judge A bankruptcy judge has rejected a bid from satirical news website The Onion to purchase "InfoWars," the flagship outlet of Alex Jones' conspiracy empire, multiple outlets reported. NBC News reported that US Bankruptcy Judge Christopher Lopez found that the bid submitted by The Onion's parent company, Global Tetrahedron, "wasn't the best bid and should not have been named the winner." Lopez handed down his ruling Tuesday, Dec. 10, at around 11:30 p.m. ET. “I don’t think it’s enough money,” Lopez said in a late-night ruling from the bench in Houston, according to NBC. “I’m going to not approv…
Winning Numbers For Tuesday, Dec. 10 'Mega Millions' Drawing With Estimated $619M Jackpot Winning Numbers For Tuesday, Dec. 10 'Mega Millions' Drawing With Estimated $619M Jackpot
Winning Numbers For Tuesday, Dec. 10 'Mega Millions' Drawing With Estimated $619M Jackpot The winning numbers have been announced for the Tuesday, Dec. 10 Mega Millions drawing. The estimated jackpot is $619 million with a $293.6 million cash option. The winning numbers for Tuesday's drawing are: 12-14-26-48-52 with a Mega Ball of 21 and a Megaplier of 5X If no winner wins the top prize, the jackpot will continue to roll until the next drawing at 10:59 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 13.  MegaMillions Lottery players have a 1 in 302,575,350 chance of winning a Mega Millions jackpot by matching all five balls plus the gold Mega Ball, according to…
Loving Danbury Mom Known For Her Humor, Devotion To Teen Daughter Dies at 33 Loving Danbury Mom Known For Her Humor, Devotion To Teen Daughter Dies at 33
Loving Danbury Mom Known For Her Humor, Devotion To Teen Daughter Dies at 33 A 33-year-old Connecticut mother known for her sense of humor and endless love for her young daughter died on Saturday, Dec. 7. Lauren Dibble, a vibrant and cherished figure in the Danbury community, left an indelible mark on her family and friends with her warmth, humor, and unwavering devotion to those she loved, her obituary on the Green Funeral Home website reads. Her family did not disclose her cause of death. "At 33 years old, Lauren held many roles," reads a GoFundMe campaign launched by Allison Smith. "Daughter, sister, friend, instigator of all the funniest cousin shenanigans, and …
Rabid Raccoon Found In CT: Officials Urge Precautions To Protect Pets, Residents Rabid Raccoon Found In CT: Officials Urge Precautions To Protect Pets, Residents
Rabid Raccoon Found In CT: Officials Urge Precautions To Protect Pets, Residents A week after a fox tested positive, a raccoon in Connecticut also tested positive for the fatal virus and experts are warning caution around unfamiliar animals and extra protection for pets.  The Ledge Light Health District announced on Monday, Dec. 9, that the stray animal had tested positive for rabies in North Stonington. Related: Rabid Coyote Attacks Three Workers in Wallingford Last Week Rabies spreads through an infected animal's saliva, usually via bites or scratches, according to the Ledge Light Health District in a Facebook post. It can also be transmitted when infecte…
Wegmans To Open First CT Store In Norwalk Next Year, Will Employee 500 Wegmans To Open First CT Store In Norwalk Next Year, Will Employee 500
Wegmans To Open First CT Store In Norwalk Next Year, Will Employee 500 Grocery megachain Wegmans has announced plans to open three new stores next year, including its first location in Connecticut. The 92,000-square-foot supermarket will open at 675 Connecticut Ave. in Norwalk during the summer of 2025. Although the company has not specified an exact opening date, it confirmed the store will feature its signature departments and offerings. Related: Whole Foods Opens First Connecticut Store In Stamford The Norwalk Wegmans will include made-to-order restaurant-style foods such as sushi, pizza, chef-prepared salads, and sandwiches. Customers can also expect a pr…
Naughty CT Drivers Could Get Gift Cards Instead Of Tickets Naughty CT Drivers Could Get Gift Cards Instead Of Tickets
Naughty CT Drivers Could Get Gift Cards Instead Of Tickets Police in six Connecticut towns are saying “Bah humbug” to boring traffic stops. This holiday season, drivers might find themselves on the “nice” list and getting a gift card instead of a ticket. Officers from the South-Central Connecticut Traffic Unit, which serves East Haven, North Branford, North Haven, Branford, Guilford, and Madison, are adding a festive twist to their traffic stops for minor infractions.  “While our primary goal remains ensuring the safety of our roadways, we see this as an opportunity to give back to the community and show appreciation during the holiday season,…
Drone Sightings Spark Multi-State Concerns Along East Coast Drone Sightings Spark Multi-State Concerns Along East Coast
Drone Sightings Spark Multi-State Concerns Along East Coast Authorities along the East Coast are grappling with a surge in drone sightings, raising security concerns and prompting high-level responses. In New Jersey, residents have reported numerous drone sightings since mid-November, particularly in Morris and Somerset counties, and more than a dozen mayors are calling for investigations. Gov. Phil Murphy is urging residents to report suspicious drone activity to law enforcement and emphasizing the state's commitment to public safety.  "We are actively monitoring the situation and in close coordination with our federal and law enforcement par…
Murder Charges Rock Mangione Dynasty: Inside Accused CEO Killer's Elite Bloodline Murder Charges Rock Mangione Dynasty: Inside Accused CEO Killer's Elite Bloodline
Murder Charges Rock Mangione Dynasty: Inside Accused CEO Killer's Elite Bloodline Luigi Mangione, the 26-year-old former Ivy Leaguer accused of killing UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson, hails from one of Maryland’s most prominent and influential families, known for their vast business holdings and political connections. ALSO SEE: Ivy-Educated Suspect May Have Spiraled After Traumatic Back Surgery Mangione, a Towson native, graduated as valedictorian from the prestigious Gilman School in Baltimore.  His grandfather, Nicholas Mangione, was a powerful real estate developer and co-founder of Lorien Health Services, a company operating nearly a dozen assisted-li…
Westport's Alisyn Camerota Begins Bold New Chapter Post-CNN: 'Welcome To Reinvention' Westport's Alisyn Camerota Begins Bold New Chapter Post-CNN: 'Welcome To Reinvention'
Westport's Alisyn Camerota Begins Bold New Chapter Post-cnn: 'Welcome To Reinvention' Shrewsbury native Alisyn Camerota is embracing reinvention after more than a decade at CNN, sharing a heartfelt farewell on-air and an introspective message about new beginnings on social media. Camerota was an anchor on CNN for a decade until she announced her departure from the network on Sunday, Dec. 8. Her on-air farewell highlighted her gratitude for 10 years of "incredible opportunities" and the support of viewers. On Tuesday, Dec. 10, Camerota posted on Instagram for the first time since her final CNN show, offering a glimpse into her new life. "Hi Friends — Welc…
CEO Murder: Whiz Kid Suspect May Have Spiraled After Traumatic Back Surgery CEO Murder: Whiz Kid Suspect May Have Spiraled After Traumatic Back Surgery
CEO Murder: Whiz Kid Suspect May Have Spiraled After Traumatic Back Surgery Luigi Nicholas Mangione, the whiz kid Ivy League-educated high school valedictorian accused of the execution-style murder of the CEO of one of the nation's largest healthcare providers, may have spiraled out of control after traumatic back surgery. Click here for a new, updated story - CEO Murder: How A Hash Brown At McDonald's Ended Manhunt For Luigi Mangione The procedure, which allegedly left Mangione in significant physical and emotional distress, may have contributed to his deteriorating mental state, a factor authorities are considering as part of their investigation. …
Ivy Leaguer From Prominent Family Officially Charged Overnight With CEO's Murder Ivy Leaguer From Prominent Family Officially Charged Overnight With CEO's Murder
Ivy Leaguer From Prominent Family Officially Charged Overnight With CEO's Murder An Ivy League-educated high school valedictorian from a privileged, politically connected family has been charged with the execution-style murder of the CEO of one of the nation's largest healthcare providers after a days-long manhunt. Click here for a new, updated story - CEO Murder: Whiz Kid Suspect May Have Spiraled After Traumatic Back Surgery New York prosecutors have formally charged 26-year-old Luigi Nicholas Mangione, a native of Towson, Maryland, with the fatal shooting of United Healthcare executive Brian Thompson.  The incident occurred outside the New York Hilton in midt…
Winning Numbers For Monday, Dec. 9 Powerball Drawing With Estimated $20M Jackpot Winning Numbers For Monday, Dec. 9 Powerball Drawing With Estimated $20M Jackpot
Winning Numbers For Monday, Dec. 9 Powerball Drawing With Estimated $20M Jackpot The winning numbers have been announced for the Monday, Dec. 9 Powerball drawing. The estimated jackpot is $20 million with a $9.7 million cash option after a player in New York recently won the jackpot and reset the prize pool.  If no winner claims the top prize, the jackpot will continue to roll until the next drawing at 10:59 p.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 11. The winning numbers for Monday's drawing were 35-37-40-45-61 with a Powerball of 24 and the Power Play was 2X. Lottery players have a 1 in 292,201,338 chance of winning a Powerball jackpot by matching all five b…
Body Found Next To Burning Car In CT Not Considered Suspicious, Report Says Body Found Next To Burning Car In CT Not Considered Suspicious, Report Says
Body Found Next To Burning Car In CT Not Considered Suspicious, Report Says A body was found beside a burning car over the weekend, authorities said, but investigators do not believe the death was suspicious, NBC Connecticut reported.  A man called 911 around 10:30 p.m. to report seeing flames near Smith's Point in Milford from across the Housatonic River in Stratford, the Milford Fire Department said in a Facebook post. The fire occurred about 75 feet from the Connecticut Audubon Society building, which was not damaged. On Monday, authorities told NBC Connecticut that a body was found outside the vehicle. Officials do not believe there is anything suspicious…