Kevin Brown

As we approach the Fourth of July, I hope you'll join me in taking a moment to reflect on the true meaning of this important holiday. Independence Day is not just about fireworks and cookouts – its' about honoring the ideals of freedom, democracy, and the generations of Americans who have fought to protect them.

It's also a time to come together with our neighbors and celebrate what unites us. In a world that often feels divided, our shared values and sense of community matter more than ever.

I wish you and your family a happy and safe Fourth of July. May it be filled with joy, reflection, and connection.

79th Annual July in the Sky Fireworks Celebration set for July 9th

The annual July in the Sky Fireworks celebration will be staged at both Henry Park (120 South Street, Vernon) and Downtown Rockville on July 9 with a rain date of July 10. Festivities will include food and kids activities begin at 6:00 P.M. and fireworks begin after dark.

Click here for more information on the festivities.

The New England Civil War Museum has been voted onto the Connecticut Freedom Trail! As a stop in the "Concept of Freedom" tour, the museum tells the stories of Black African American Civil War soldiers from Connecticut and New England - particularly that of Joseph L. Porter from Vernon, who joined the infamous 29th Connecticut Volunteer "Colored" Infantry. Hear about Joseph's and other's stories in the main tour exhibit "Seth, Joseph, Lizzie, and George", as well as the story of the 29th in the exhibit "Pioneers of Liberty"!

Last week, Governor Ned Lamont signed into law legislation (Public Act 25-61) modifying the state’s Fallen Officer Fund, which was created last year and provides survivor benefits to the families of fallen police officers, by expanding its availability to include the families of all first responders, including firefighters, emergency medical technicians (EMTs), and paramedics, and correspondingly renames it the Fallen Hero Fund. This legislation went into effect on July 1.

The legislation also modifies state law to allow the surviving family members of firefighters, EMTs, and paramedics who were covered by that first responder’s health insurance at the time of their own death to remain on that coverage for up to five years, similar to existing state law concerning fallen police officers.

Established in May 2024 through legislation signed by Governor Lamont, the Fallen Officer Fund provides a lump sum, non-taxable payment of $100,000 to the surviving family members or beneficiaries of any Connecticut state or local police officer killed in the line of duty or who sustained injuries that are the cause of an officer’s death. That 2024 legislation also created a law allowing the surviving family members of police officers killed in the line of duty who were covered by that officer’s health insurance at the time of their own death to remain on that coverage for up to five years.

The Electric Discount Rate expanded from two to five discount tiers with the 10% tier being eliminated.  Customers in that tier have been moved to a new tier based on the new eligibility requirements.

Under the new structure, customers are eligible for a 5%, 15%, 20%, 40% or 50% discount off their monthly electric bills if they meet household income requirements or receive a public assistance benefit for at least one household member and have a financial hardship status on their electric account.

Customers struggling to pay their energy bill are encouraged to connect with Eversource to get assistance. To find the right options, visit eversource.com/billhelp or call 800-286-2828.

There is a plan for everyone, including:  

• State and Other Assistance Programs
• Protection from Service Shut-Off
• Financial Assistance Programs and Payment Plans
• Energy Efficiency