Happy Easter

April 17, 2025

Dear Neighbor,

I hope this message finds you and your family well! I am wishing you all a Happy Easter from my family to yours! I hope you all have a day filled with love, laughter, and great company!

Due to repeated exposure to smoke, toxic chemicals, and carcinogens in the line of duty, evidence has shown that firefighters have a greater prevalence of cancer than the general population. These heroes have high-risk jobs and keep our communities safe - the last thing they need to worry about is navigating their healthcare.

I am happy to announce that, effective May 1, 2025, the State of Connecticut is expanding the benefits it provides to firefighters to include free, enhanced cancer screenings. That means more than 900 firefighters enrolled in the state employee health plan and Partnership Plan will now have free access to a comprehensive, full-body scan once every two years.

Early detection is key to successful treatment outcomes, and these regular screenings will help keep them healthy and keep their minds at ease.

➡️ Any firefighter enrolled on the state employee health plan or Partnership Plan who is seeking more information can visit carecompass.ct.gov to connect with a representative, schedule an appointment, and find providers in their area.

The Transportation Security Administration issued an important message recently that will affect anyone who travels on domestic commercial flights.

Beginning on May 7, anyone who wishes to travel on a domestic commercial flight must have a REAL ID or other acceptable form of documentation.

What is a REAL ID?

A REAL ID is a state-issued ID that meets minimum security standards to access federal facilities and board domestic flights. The program was implemented following a 9/11 commission recommendation on making air travel and federal facilities more secure.

How do I get a REAL ID?

You can visit your local DMV to learn more and apply for a REAL ID, or at the CT information portal here.
In Connecticut, you'll need:
- a U.S. passport or U.S. birth certificate;
- a Social Security card; and
- two pieces of mail from two different sources dated within 90 days to prove that you live in Connecticut.
- For all new applications for a driver's license, as well as out-of-state transfers to Connecticut licenses, you will automatically be issued a REAL ID.

How do I know if I already have a REAL ID?

Check your driver's license or ID to see if it has a gold star in the upper right corner, like the accompanying graphic. If you do, then you have a verified REAL ID.

What other forms of ID are acceptable?

A U.S. passport.
State-issued Enhanced Driver's Licenses and identification cards are also acceptable, though Connecticut does not issue them.

For more information, visit the following:
Department of Homeland Security website
CT Department of Motor Vehicles website
CT Information Portal website

Mark your calendars for May 8. Come learn about senior programs and resources throughout the state of Connecticut. More information to come!

Easter Egg Hunts around Bristol this April!

The Hillside Community Church is hosting an Easter Egg Hunt on Saturday, April 19th at Rockwell Park.

For more information click here

The Environmental Learning Centers of Connecticut is hosting its annual Easter Egg Hunt at Indian Rock Nature Preserve on April 18th from 10 am - 2 pm.

For more information click here