Bobby Gibson

Connecticut's annual summer Sales Tax-Free Week on clothing is back, and this year it runs from Sunday August 18 through Saturday August 24.

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

On Friday, I had the honor of holding an event to celebrate Bloomfield native and Pro Football Hall of Famer Dwight Freeney. I coached Dwight as the team’s Defensive Coordinator, and it has been a personal delight to see his success on and off the field.

Avelo Airlines recently announced an expansion to Bradley International Airport with seven, new direct flights including nonstop service to Montego Bay, Jamaica starting in November.

Connecticut has a large and vibrant Jamaican and Caribbean population, and this nonstop flight will provide an affordable and efficient way for residents to visit their families and for families to visit our great state. It will also be crucial for business travelers. Andrew Lawrence of the Caribbean Trade Council and I fought tirelessly to secure this service for our residents. Thank you to Avelo Airlines – this new route will greatly benefit everyone.

Friday, August 9 will be Dwight Freeney Day. On this day, we will honor Bloomfield native and Pro Football Hall of Famer Dwight Freeney at the Connecticut State Capitol. The festivities will begin at 11 AM. Parking will be limited at the Capitol due to renovations/paving - there will be additional parking options on the street and the Legislative Office Building garage.

Last week, we lost a titan of American politics. Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee, who represented Houston, Texas in the House since 1995, passed on Friday. During her time on the national stage, she pushed for many meaningful pieces of legislation, including the Juneteenth National Independence Day Act, which made Juneteenth a national holiday. Rep. Jackson Lee's absence will be felt in Congress as well in her community in Texas, but her legacy will live on.

Connecticut is experiencing another stretch of hot and humid temperatures, so the state's Extreme Hot Weather Protocol has been activated and remains in effect through 5 p.m. on Wednesday.

Congratulations to the Kerr brothers on this well-deserved honor! As a former Warhawk player and coach, I’ve had the privilege of watching you rise from Bloomfield Raiders to Bloomfield Warhawks. Your dedication, hard work, and perseverance have been inspiring. I’m incredibly proud and excited to see the great things you will achieve in the future. Keep soaring high!

Happy 4th of July! As you prepare to celebrate the holiday, I wanted to remind you of the importance of safe driving. Holiday traffic can be stressful, especially if you are traveling to an unfamiliar area.