Eleni Kavros DeGraw

The leaves are beginning to turn. There’s finally a little chill in the air today. And spooky season is right around the corner.

October 1st is already here, and that means we have some new laws that go into effect today. One that I am proud to have written and worked on is requiring bicycle helmets for children up to age 18. As I speak with avid cyclists, they always talk about the difference a helmet has made for them when they have had an unfortunate accident. More below on other laws kicking in today.

Welcome back to the weekly newsletter. It's been a busy couple of weeks, and hopefully you were able to see the updates on the various social media platforms where I post.

As we get closer to the 9/11 anniversary, I’m always struck by how, in most years, the weather seems to mirror the weather on September 11, 2001.

September is Hunger Action Month, and we kicked it off yesterday with a press conference at Connecticut Foodshare in Wallingford.

Labor Day Weekend is upon us, and I could hear the cheers of parents and a few tears from the kids as school started this week. I truly hope students and teachers have a wonderful year.

As chilly as it was this morning, the reality of back-to-school is nearly upon us. I hope you've had a chance to take advantage of sales tax-free week on many items the kiddos need for the school year. I've included some school bus safety reminders this week as we get back into the swing of things.

Sharing updated information this week on the Student Loan Reimbursement Program as it will be, once again, taking applications for the program.