Michelle L. Cook

One of the best ways to help protect our environment is to protect land from development by preserving it as open space for all residents to enjoy.

Important dates for back-to-school, learn what the Moderate Caucus is asking for concerning electric bills, Children's Champions 2024, events, and so much more in this week's e-newsletter.

A new state program to help residents remove dangerous lead hazards, such as lead paint, from homes is accepting applications.

I have a lot to share with you this week, including information about electric bills (I share the frustration), touring Yankee Pedlar Inn (now in city receivership), National Night Out, Sales Tax-Free Week is August 18-24, the VA's Stand Down 2024, Warner Theatre shows & auditions, cutting the ribbon on the 7-Eleven/Sonic, events around the district & much more.

Started by the legislature over two decades ago as a way to help families with back-to-school shopping needs, the state's Sales Tax-Free Week offers everyone a chance to save money on new clothing and footwear.

From ribbon cuttings to visits to the American Mural Project (both with the governor) to Friendly Hands food distribution and visits to the summer programs at the high school and middle school, summer continues to be a busy time here in the 65th District!

There are plenty of events coming up around Torrington and the local area, including the Watermelon Festival on Saturday, the Litchfield County 4-H Fair at the Goshen Fairgrounds, School of Rock at the Warner Theatre, PAL events, Pokeman and Family Frenzy at the library, summer concerts, car washes, and more. Check out this week's e-news for more information!

It's hard to believe that we welcome August next week and thoughts turn to back-to-school preparations. But before that happens, we have a little bit of summer left to enjoy. There are so many fun events coming up in Torrington, including the Princess Tea, three-on-three basketball, Summer Family Frenzy at the library, Watermelon Festival on August 3, summer concerts, an artist talk at Five Points Arts, School of Rock at the Warner, Torringford FD's Car Show, and more.

Consider nominating a veteran for this year's Veterans Hall of Fame class. The nominating period runs until September 15. An official induction ceremony will be held later in the year.