Severe Cold Weather Protocol, Support Deputy Chief Dave Theriault on Sunday

February 19, 2025

Dear Neighbor,

A snapshot of today: Co-chairing the public hearing for Planning and Development, popping into the Public Health Committee to vote, and as I sit in the Legislative Office Building this evening, participating in the Public Hearing for the Higher Education Subcommittee for the Appropriations Committee where I am a member.

We are listening to testimony from students attending our community colleges, our state schools, and UCONN as they share why these schools are so important to them and why we should provide adequate funding.

To say that the days are full would be an understatement, but that’s what a long session brings and I am glad I get to share this information with you.

We will be in session on Monday and, unusually, we aren’t starting until 5 p.m. to allow time for public hearings and committee meetings. More details to come on what we will be working on as we are finalizing that this week.

Lots to check out in the e-news below. Most of all, stay warm as we continue to be in what feels like a polar vortex and there is still so much ice in many locations.

Have a great week,

Eleni

Severe Cold Weather Protocol in Effect Through Saturday

Temperatures will be well below freezing through Saturday. Stay safe. Stay warm!

Please Support Deputy Chief Dave Theriault on Sunday

CTDOT Urges Motorists to Stay in Their Vehicles in Highway Emergencies

The CTDOT has issued a safety reminder for all motorists that if you experience a breakdown or emergency on a highway, the safest place to be is inside your vehicle. Please click on the image below to read more.

Celebrating Black History Month

To see how some of my colleagues and I are celebrating Black History Month, please click on the image below.

Students Can Apply To Join CT Board of Ed

Do you know of a public school student who wants to participate in statewide education policy? If so, please encourage them to apply now to potentially serve on the Connecticut State Board of Education! The selected students, who will soon enter their senior year, will serve a one-year term, beginning July 1, 2025. Take a look at the graphic below for application requirements.

The governor will appoint two public school students who will lend an important perspective to deliberations on the State Board of Education. The selected students will not have voting privileges.

Click here to learn more and start the application process!

Participants must complete their application, and it must be received by mail or email by Monday, March 17.

Free Resources to File Your Taxes

There are several free resources available this year for anyone who needs to file state and federal taxes.

(photo credit: IRS)

You can use the IRS Direct File Tool, which is a new option for anyone who lived and earned all their income in Connecticut last year.

Click here for more information on IRS Direct File Tool

The federal government is also offering the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program, which offers free tax preparation services to eligible taxpayers. Here are some of the eligibility requirements for VITA:

Household income less than $68,000
If self-employed, business expenses should be less than $35,000
No income from a rental property

Avon and Canton residents can find their nearest location by clicking on the image below.

Book your appointment HERE. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to save money when filing your taxes!

Free Tax Assistance Being Offered By AARP Tax-Aide

AARP Foundation Tax-Aide volunteers will be at the Avon Senior Center from February 1st through April 9th

Appointments are required. Please click HERE to read additional information regarding this free tax assistance opportunity with special attention being given to those age 50 and older.

Reminder: Operation Fuel Financial Assistance Available

Eligible Connecticut residents can apply for assistance with gas, electric, oil, or other deliverable fuels. Please Click Here for more information including details on eligibility requirements and application materials.