Patricia Dillon

You may have seen reports of increased incidents from mosquito bites. In the past week alone, some towns in Massachusetts imposed curfews because of EEE – which has a fatality rate of 30%. Cases of the West Nile Virus have also been reported.

Connecticut's annual Sales Tax-Free Week begins on Sunday, August 18 and runs through Saturday, August 24. It provides a chance to save money, whether it is taking the kids back-to-school shopping or treating yourself or your loved ones.

I’m writing before the weekend to alert you to a sewage overflow in to New Haven rivers that could affect your health. We have experienced heavy rains and as you may know sewers on the west side have not been separated.

Today, August 5, is National Oyster Day! Oysters are a sustainable food source and a keystone species providing additional habitat for other marine life and improving water clarity. Healthier waters mean a more resilient and vibrant ecosystem, enhancing the natural beauty that defines Connecticut, while supporting a diverse, successful shellfish industry.

This summer, the Connecticut Department of Transportation is collaborating with state and local law enforcement and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) to launch a high-visibility anti-speeding enforcement campaign. The campaign aims to increase awareness and promote safer driving behaviors with increased speed limit enforcement. The campaign will run through September 5.

At the same time we process the effects of the historic events of recent months, our community continues the work of increased access to nourishing food while improving our neighborhoods.

Several new laws that address many issues aimed at improving our great state will become effective on Monday, July 1st.

As you may have heard, the new Summer EBT (S-EBT) benefits, which were anticipated to be deposited this week, have been delayed until early August. Although existing benefits won't be affected, this unexpected delay could potentially make it difficult for families around the state. The Community Foundation for Greater New Haven maintains a list of locations that provide food resources for members of the community- click here to access and bookmark it.