Weekly Update - April 23

April 23, 2022





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Dear Neighbor, 



Happy Earth Week! As a longtime leader on climate change, our state continues to strive to develop and support forward-thinking climate-related policies and legislation, as well as participate in groundbreaking regional initiatives. The Connecticut Climate Action website is a hub for the Governor's three recent Executive Orders that take action to address the climate crisis. Learn more by clicking here

 

Celebrate Earth Week with a community clean up! Here are the event happening in our community this weekend:

Moxi on the Rocks is hosting a Burnside Neighborhood Earth Day Cleanup today, April 23 at 10AM. Meeting at the Burnside Mill on the upper loading dock (use address: 87 Church Street). Should there be inclement weather, the rain date is Sunday, April 24.

The Manchester Land Trust in partnership with the Town of Manchester's Sustainability Commission, the Youth Commission, the Conservation Commission and Manchester High School Environmental Club are celebrating Earth Day 2022 with a community clean-up event on Saturday, April 23 from 9AM-1PM at Center Springs Park. Learn more or register for the event by clicking here.

In this email you'll find updates on district resources and news. Please click the links below to read the section that corresponds with the highlighted headline.



A NOTE: If you're having trouble clicking through the following links, open this email in a browser, use a computer or scroll through this email to the relevant section. 



The topics covered are as follows:



On Legislative Business

On Community Resources 

House Votes to Expand Access to Reproductive Rights

During session on Tuesday, the House approved legislation to expand access to reproductive rights, as states across the country move to limit access to health care services and the U.S. Supreme Court is considering a case that would overturn the precedent set in Roe v. Wade. The legislation updated Connecticut statute to authorize certain advanced healthcare practitioners, in addition to physicians, to provide abortion-related care, and prohibited state agencies from assisting in out-of-state investigations or prosecutions of individuals who received reproductive healthcare services that are legal in Connecticut. 

 

Connecticut has remained a strong leader in ensuring access to reproductive rights – and as we move into the future, even as other states make drastic changes, we intend to keep moving forward. Governor Ned Lamont has already expressed support for the legislation, which now awaits action in the Senate.

 

I would like to know, what do you think of this issue?

HB 5414: An Act Concerning Protections for Persons Receiving and Providing Reproductive Health Care Services in the State
The CT Mirror: Abortion rights bill passes CT House, with Lamont in support
CT News Junkie: House Votes to Expand Abortion Access
Hartford Courant: Connecticut Gov. Lamont pledges to sign key abortion bill passed by House as U.S. Supreme Court ruling awaits

Senate Unanimously Approves Data Privacy Bill

During Wednesday's Senate session, the chamber unanimously approved legislation to protect consumer data through the regulation of the buying and selling of personal data. If the bill were to become law, consumers would be able to see which companies are collecting their personal data and opt out of sales or sharing of their information. Additionally, the legislation would raise the age for youths to opt-in for data-sale eligibility from the current 13-years-old to 16.

 

The bill now awaits action in the House. If the bill were to be signed into law by the Governor, Connecticut would join a growing list of states working to protect consumer data, including California, Colorado, and Virginia.

 

I would like to know, what do you think of this issue?

SB 6: An Act Concerning Personal Data Privacy and Online Monitoring
Connecticut Public Radio: Data privacy: CT Senate votes to regulate the buying and selling of you
CT Insider: CT Senate unanimously approves data-privacy legislation including child protections

Budget Talks Continue as CT Expects an Almost $4 Billion Budget Surplus

As we near the end of the legislative session, we are working around the clock to wrap up work on adjustments to our state budget for the upcoming fiscal year. Governor Ned Lamont, the Appropriations Committee, and the Finance, Revenue, and Bonding Committees have already laid out their priorities and talks are ongoing to create a final plan.   

 

As these talks push on, lawmakers will also be considering the use of, what is now expected to be, a near $4 billion budget surplus according to the Office of Policy and Management (OPM). The surplus is certain to help us deliver on our goals to provide significant tax relief as part of the package – specifically, a new income tax cut for families with children and some sort of car tax relief, among other initiatives, continue to remain priorities.

 

Republicans pitched their alternative budget plan – a $1.2 billion tax relief plan that would reduce state income, sales, and gas taxes, but would ultimately require suing the federal government to challenge certain restrictions on spending pandemic relief funds. House leadership intends to reach out to the Attorney General's office for a legal opinion on their plan, but realistically it seems irresponsible to promise tax cuts based upon a lawsuit that may or may not happen. 

 

I would like to know, what do you think of this issue?

WTNH: Time is ticking on getting a state budget agreement
The CT Mirror: CT budget surplus nears $4 billion; lawmakers push for tax relief
CT News Junkie: Republicans Propose Last-Minute Tax Package

Today in CT History: Noah Webster Foresees Life-Changing Environmental Crisis — in 1817!

Today in 1817, Noah Webster’s visionary essay on environmental sustainability, which he modestly titled “Domestic Consumption,” was published on the front page of the Connecticut Courant. Born in what is now West Hartford, and a graduate of Yale, Webster is best known to history as the creator of the first American dictionary in 1806. With the publication of “Domestic Economy,” he also became one of the first Americans to call for environmental conservation to prevent a man-made ecological catastrophe.



Webster’s essay warned against the rapid and continuous deforestation of New England. He called on its inhabitants to reduce the amount of firewood they used and to practice more sustainable forestry management. After praising the beauty and healthfulness of the New England climate at great length, Webster acknowledged that the region’s earliest settlers had made clear-cutting the primeval forests a top priority.

In addition to his dire warnings in “Domestic Economy,” Webster also included practical advice on how early 19th-century households could practice long-term fuel economy and sustainable forestry. His suggestions, written just over 200 years ago, sound surprisingly modern:

  • Plant more trees: Farmers should plant new trees on their property equal to or greater than the number of trees they consume for fuel annually. Town magistrates should more carefully track and manage the number of trees in their towns and set aside areas for growing more in the future.
  • Reduce domestic fuel consumption: Build more efficient fireplaces; use modern iron stoves over large open kitchen hearths; encourage more efficient house layouts and construction in the future.
  • Be smarter in how you use fuel: Never burn green wood, which burns very inefficiently. When felling trees for firewood, split logs to help wood dry faster.

Thankfully, around the same time Webster was fretting over a potential wood shortage, clever Yankees all over New England were discovering the advantages of using natural waterpower to drive their machines and fledgling factories — utilizing one of the greenest and renewable energies available in the 19th century to move the Industrial Revolution forward. A practical vision for an environmentally friendly future, published long before it was Earth Day, today in Connecticut history.

 

Learn more about Noah Webster and other interesting CT history facts by clicking here

East Hartford Basketball & Wrestling Teams Visit the Capitol

During Wednesday's session, I had the pleasure of introducing the East Hartford High School Girls Basketball Team and Wrestling Team on the House Floor to celebrate their respective state championships wins. I'm so proud of our student athletes, and grateful for the opportunity to celebrate their success with the House of Representatives. Thank you to the students and staff for stopping by!

Happening Today: 2nd Racial Equity Mural Unveiling Ceremony

East Hartford Murals, in partnership with CT Murals and Sustainable CT, will host the unveiling of East Hartford's 2nd Racial Equity Mural today, April 23 from 12PM-1:30PM under Founders Bridge (235 East River Drive). This new mural honors the remarkable women leaders who have shaped our community – Odessa Terry, Amisha Patel, Melody Currey, Rosa Cruz, and Mary Johnson.

 

This will be a time of celebration where you will have a chance to hear from local leaders, meet the artists, and of course, take in the view of our community's newest mural.

Manchester Compost Bin and Rain Barrel Sale Event

The Town of Manchester Public Works Department Sanitation Division has partnered with Earth Machine for a compost bin and rain barrel sale where residents will have the ability to purchase at a discounted price.

 

Backyard composting is an excellent way to reduce waste that traditionally ends up in landfills, and rain barrels can help save on water costs. Purchase for reduced prices by clicking here (Manchester residents use code Take20 at checkout to receive a $20 discount) – orders must be placed by April 28, and picked up on Sunday, May 1, 4PM-6:30PM at the Manchester Public Works Administration building (321 Olcott Street).

 

For more information, click here.

Save the Date: East Hartford's Juneteenth Family Celebration is Back!

Be sure to mark your calendars for Saturday, June 18 when the East Hartford Juneteenth Family Celebration returns! Juneteenth, officially known as Juneteenth National Independence Day, is also known as Jubilee Day, Emancipation Day, Freedom Day, and Black Independence Day, is a federal holiday in the United States commemorating the emancipation of enslaved African Americans.

Celebrate on the Town Green (1047 Main Street) from 11AM-3PM with a day of music, good food, art, and compelling stories as we remember and honor how far we have come. This event is made possible through collaboration with East Hartford Parks and Recreation, the Committee on Culture and Fine Arts and the East Hartford Black Caucus

 

If you are a local vendor interested in participating in the event, please fill out the forms found here or call Parks and Recreation at (860) 291-7160.

 

The celebration is meant for families and open to all, there is no admission fee. In case of inclement weather, the event will be held on Sunday, June 19, 11M-3PM. For more information, click here.

East Hartford Town Council Approves Income Eligibility Increase for Elderly & Disabled Homeowners Tax Relief

During Tuesday's meeting, the East Hartford Town Council approved changes to the Town’s Tax Credit Program for Senior Citizens and Disabled Persons. Residents are advised that revisions to these property tax exemptions increase the town program income eligibility criteria to $61,400 for married persons, and $53,100 for single persons. The change is effective immediately and will apply to this year's application process.



The deadline to apply for this year’s Elderly and Disabled Homeowner’s Tax Relief Program is still May 15. Individuals that were not eligible under the prior income criteria can still apply if you now qualify based on the new income limits.

East Hartford Social Services will be available at the East Hartford Public Library 2nd Floor Reference Room on Tuesday, April 26 from 4:30PM-7PM for in-person, after-hours assistance for the Elderly and Disabled Homeowner's Relief Program and Renters Rebate Program application process. Residents are encouraged to schedule an appointment to reduce wait times – reserve your spot by calling Social Services at (860) 291-7248. Walk-ins will be served on a first come, first served basis. Please be sure to bring required documentation.

 

For details regarding eligibility and documentation requirements, please visit the Assessor Exemption Programs webpage.

Manchester Community Clean Up & Shred Event on May 21

Manchester residents – get rid of unwanted waste at no cost during the Town of Manchester Community Clean Up & Shred Event on Saturday, May 21 at the Transfer Station (311 Olcott Street). The Clean Up Event will take place from 7:30AM-3PM, and the Shred Event will take place from 9AM-12PM or until full.

 

To participate the driver of the vehicle must be able to prove that they are a resident of Manchester using a valid driver's license with a Manchester address. A sign-in sheet with names and addresses will be used to track residents who participated in the drop program.

 

For more information or if you cannot provide proof of residency, call (860) 647-3200 to make arrangements in advance. For a list of acceptable items and restrictions, click here.

COVID-19 Updates & Upcoming Vaccine Clinics

Earlier this week, a federal judge in Florida voided the mask mandate for public travel causing most airlines and public transit systems across the country to update their guidelines. The Connecticut Department of Transportation announced the mask mandate is now lifted on CT Transit, Hartford Line, and Shore Line East. Rail services on the New Haven Line follow orders from New York state because it is operated by Metro-North.

The best defense against COVID-19 continues to be a good offense. It's so important that we continue the precautions that have worked: observe social distancing, wear a face mask when social distancing is not possible or indoors, wash your hands thoroughly and regularly, get tested if you were in contact with anyone who's tested positive, etc. But, most importantly – please consider getting vaccinated if you haven't already or getting a booster if it's been six months since you're last COVID vaccine.

The Town of East Hartford, with Griffin Hospital, will host vaccine clinics at Sone Academy and the East Hartford Public Library and Sone Academy on the following dates:

  • Tuesday, April 26, 3PM-7PM – Stone Academy
  • Wednesday, April 27, 4PM-7PM – East Hartford Public Library

First, second, and third/booster doses of all brands will be available to all eligible Connecticut residents ages 5 and older. No insurance, ID, or appointment required. If you have any questions, require additional information, or would like to make an appointment contact the East Hartford Health Department at (860) 291-7324.

The Town of Manchester Health Department, with the Connecticut Department of Public Health, will host a vaccine clinic at Charter Oak Park on Thursday, April 28 from 2PM-6PM. First, second, and third/booster doses of all brands will be available to all eligible Connecticut residents ages 12 and older. No insurance or appointment required. If you have any questions or require additional information, contact the Manchester Health Department at (860) 647-3173.

East Hartford Residents – rapid antigen COVID-19 test kits and N95 respirators are still available for pick up at the East Hartford Health Department for East Hartford residents. Due to limited supply, the testing kits are for intended for symptomatic or exposed individuals only. Please call the Health Department at (860) 291-7324 to reserve a test kit today (limit is one per household). Please note that if you are currently experiencing symptoms consistent with COVID-19, the town asks that you request curbside pick-up at the Town Hall.

 

Additionally, East Hartford’s vulnerable town residents and/or those with a disability who need a reasonable accommodation to obtain the N95 masks or rapid antigen test kits should contact the Town of East Hartford Health Department at (860) 291-7324. Written requests for a reasonable accommodation may be sent to health@easthartfordct.gov. Please be advised there is a limit of one test kit per household.

A reminder for those that don't want to carry around their paper CDC cards or who lost them, CT residents can now utilize "SMART Health Cards" to securely show proof of being vaccinated. The digital card can be obtained via a QR code that you can find here. To get more info on SMART Health Cards, or how to access them and download to your smartphone device, click here.

For more information on receiving the COVID-19 vaccine or to locate an appointment near you, click here or locate a DPH Mobile COVID-19 vaccination clinic by clicking here. Those without access to the internet can call the Connecticut’s Vaccine Appointment Assist Line, available seven days a week from 8 AM to 8 PM, at (877) 918-2224.

 

For East Hartford-based COVID-19 updates and resources, click here. And, for Manchester-based COVID-19 updates and resources, click here.

The Galleries at WORK_SPACE invite artists of all mediums and experience to submit work that reflects what LGBTQ+ pride and resilience mean to them. Through the personal and communal experience that art fosters, we hope to showcase stories about what it means to live as authentic and uncompromised selves. Submissions are due Monday, April 25. Contact galleries@workspacemanchester.com or (860) 647-3168 for more information.

Celebrate your love of the popular Julia Quinn Regency romance books and the equally popular Netflix show at Manchester Public Libray on Saturday, April 30 with Bridgerton-themed festivities! From 2:30PM-3:30PM local author David Garnes will talk about Regency-area authors, including Jane Austen, and from 3:30PM-4:30PM take part in some crafts. No special attire required, but feel free to dress up if you wish! Registration is required for this free adult event. Please call our Reference Room at (860) 645-0821 to secure your spot.

Create two sea glass pendants during this hands-on workshop with Creative Girl Studios on Saturday, April 30 at 2PM at the Leisure Labs (110 Cedar Street). This will be a perfect gift for Mother's Day, or come and create with your Mom, Grandmother, or loved one! Tools will be available to borrow, and supplies will be provided. Advanced registration is required, $40 per person – reserve your spot by calling (860) 647-3084 or by clicking here.

Come explore the rich history of East Hartford and Connecticut through a tour of historic Center Cemetery in East Hartford with East Hartford Public Library on Saturday, April 23! During the tour, you’ll learn about the native Podunk tribe, the fabulous Pitkin family, and more! Noted local historian Ruth Shapleigh-Brown will be on hand to answer questions about genealogy and history. Tours will be offered at 1PM (register here) and 3PM (register here).

 

Please note parking is available in the library parking lot and meet at the front steps of the library, where we’ll walk over to the Main Street entrance of the cemetery to begin our tour. Wear comfortable shoes: there will be some brief steep inclines on uneven ground on the path. For all ages.

The East Hartford Commission on Culture and Fine Arts presents homegrown artist/pianist Paul Bisaccia in a new, free concert featuring Beethoven’s celebrated “Waldstein” Sonata, on Sunday, April 24 at 2PM at First Congregational Church (837 Main Street). Admission is free! For more information, click here.

Join East Hartford Youth Services Bureau via Facebook Live on Wednesday, April 27 at 6PM as they release the videos of this year's prevention idol contestants! This year's contestants were asked to show off their talents, whether in singing, dancing, dramatic reading, or magic tricks. Participants will also highlight the benefits of living substance free and why they choose to be drug free in a workshop that is required for participation.

My office is always open if you or your family are in need of assistance. Please do not hesitate to contact me by email at Jason.Rojas@cga.ct.gov or by phone at 860-240-8541.



Sincerely,



Jason Rojas

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