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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
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On Wednesday, President Joe Biden signed the bipartisan Sergeant First Class Heath Robinson Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics (PACT) Act into law.
The law is the most significant expansion of benefits and services for veterans exposed to dangerous toxins in more than 30 years. Some key changes to the VA benefits are:
- Expands and extends eligibility for VA health care for veterans with toxic exposure and Veterans of the Vietnam, Gulf War, and post-9/11 eras
- Adds more than 20 new presumptive conditions for burn pits and other toxic exposures
- Adds more presumptive-exposure locations for Agent Orange and radiation
- Requires VA to provide a toxic exposure screening to every veteran enrolled in VA health care
- Helps the VA to improve research, staff education, and treatment related to toxic exposures
If you’re a veteran or survivor, you are now able to file claims for PACT Act-related benefits. To learn more about eligibility and available benefits, click here. To file a claim, click here and to apply for VA health care, click here.
I would like to know, what do you think of this issue?
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Primary Election Day Unofficial Votes
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It was Election Day on Tuesday! As of the time of drafting the eblast, the unofficial results of Tuesday’s primary are:
Secretary of the State
- Democratic Primary:
- Stephanie Thomas - 75.8%
- Maritza Bond - 24.2%
- Republican Primary:
- Dominic Rapini - 58.2%
- Terrie Wood - 41.8%
State Treasurer
- Democratic Primary:
- Erick Russell - 57.6%
- Dita Bhargava - 22.8%
- Karen DuBois-Walton - 19.6%
U.S. Senate
- Republican Primary:
- Leora Levy - 50.5%
- Themis Klarides - 40.1%
- Peter Lumaj - 9.4%
To find East Hartford’s voter turnout and unofficial vote tallies, click here, and for Manchester’s results, click here.
Mark your calendars - polls open for the general election at 6AM on Tuesday, November 8! And, if you’re not registered to vote - what are you waiting for? Register to vote online by clicking here.
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U.S. Senate Passes Inflation Reduction Act
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After an hours-long "vote-a-rama" on Saturday, the U.S. Senate passed the Inflation Reduction Act – a nearly $700 billion spending package aimed at making critically need investments in climate change initiatives, reducing healthcare and drug costs, and reforming our tax code.
Among several initiatives included in the package, the Inflation Reduction Act:
- Reduces the deficit by $300 billion
- Closes tax loopholes that allows the biggest corporations to avoid paying taxes
- Lowers drug costs by empowering Medicare to negotiate prescription drug prices
- Caps out-of-pocket costs for Medicare beneficiaries
- Fights climate change by investing in clean energy
Vice President Kamala Harris broke the 50-50 tie to advance the Inflation Reduction Act out of the Senate. The bill now moves to the House.
I would like to know, what do you think of this issue?
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Today in CT History: A Piano Maker’s Play to Cut Insurance Rates Nets Him Millions
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As the Industrial Revolution transformed American market towns into industrial cities during the 19th century, the risk of urban fires – always a hazard – sharply increased. This was especially true in the era that preceded the establishment of building and fire codes. In response to the sharp increase in fire-related damage claims in the years before the civil war, insurance rates for inner-city businesses skyrocketed.
One Connecticut man, Henry S. Parmelee, was determined to find a way to permanently lower his company’s fire insurance premiums. Parmelee owned the New Haven-based Mathusek Piano Works company, and after negotiations with his insurer yielded no satisfaction, he took matters into his own hands. Parmalee spent years designing a workable fire-suppression system that he could install and use throughout his factory. On August 11, 1874, he finally received a patent for what became the first automatic fire sprinkler system.
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While Parmelee’s system wasn’t the first to rely on a network of water pipes attached to a factory ceiling, he is credited with inventing the first automatic sprinkler head — a spring-loaded mechanism that would release water upon detecting high levels of smoke or heat.
Parmelee’s sprinkler system was an incredible success. Not only did it obtain him the lower insurance premiums he desired, it made him a fortune: Over 200,000 Parmelee-style sprinkler systems were installed in factories across New England in the first eight years after his patent was secured. Today, thanks to Parmelee and his high-priced insurer, automatic fire suppression systems are mandatory in new commercial construction. One man’s quest to save a few bucks ended up saving lives too, today in Connecticut history.
If you'd like to learn more about Henry S. Parmelee and other interesting CT historical facts, click here.
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MPS Families – Don't Forget to Check the First Day of Schedule
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Families and Guardians of Manchester Public School Students, the school year is right around the corner! A reminder that school will start a day early on Tuesday, September 6 to give students the opportunity to adjust to the transition from grade levels.
Children in integrated Pre-School, Grades K-4, 5, 7, and 9 are invited to this opportunity to meet their teachers and classmates, learn how to follow their new school schedule, and familiarize themselves with the building before the entire school returns. Note – September 6 will be a full day of school.
The first full day of school for all other students is Wednesday, September 7. For the complete Manchester Public Schools 2022-2023 calendar, click here.
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On Sale Now: Get Your Tickets for the East Hartford Senior Picnic
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Mark your calendars and grab your tickets – the East Hartford 35th Annual Senior Picnic is happening on Tuesday, September 13 from 12PM-3PM at the Pratt and Whitney Aircraft Club (200 Clement Road). Enjoy a fantastic lunch beginning at noon featuring everyone's picnic favorites – hot dogs, hamburgers, veggie burgers, BBQ chicken, Maple Glazed Baked Beans, Home Style Potato Salad, Baked Macaroni and Cheese, garden salad, sliced watermelon, cookies, iced tea, coffee, lemonade, soda, and bottled water.
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Enjoy musical entertainment from singer, musician, and entertainer Noah Lis who has appeared on “The Voice”, “America’s Got Talent”, and entertains throughout the U.S. PLUS, prizes will be awarded throughout the afternoon for the top 3 best dressed for the picnic theme.
Tickets are on sale now and must be purchased in advance – no tickets will be sold at the door. The tickets are cash only and the price is $10 for residents and $12 for non-residents. Tickets will be sold on a first come, first served basis between from 11AM-11PM in the front foyer of the Senior Center (15 Milbrook Drive) on the following dates: August 8 - August 12 and August 15 - August 19.
For more information, click here.
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Supporting CT’s Hospitality Industry
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Connecticut's hospitality industry was hit hard by COVID-19. While many have made progress in their recovery, we know they're still trying to rebuild.
Starting this week, eligible CT-based hospitality businesses will receive checks in the mail through the Connecticut Department of Economic and Community Development's (DECD) CT Hospitality Industry Support Program. The new grant program was established in the biennium state budget allocating $30 million in American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds to support hospitality businesses that experienced financial losses because of the pandemic.
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Businesses will receive checks directly from the state Department of Revenue Services in amounts ranging from $7,500 to $49,999. The base grant for businesses located in distressed municipalities is $15,000. Businesses DO NOT have to apply for the grant.
To receive a grant, existing businesses must meet several criteria, including a decline of 15% or more in gross receipts when comparing calendar years 2019 to 2021. Grants can be used to support payroll and benefits; employee retention; mortgage, rent, utility, and other operating expenses; existing equipment/facilities maintenance; or costs to support COVID-19 mitigation and infection prevention strategies.
These grants will help offset some of the financial challenges these businesses experienced in the face of the pandemic and stabilize them for future challenges.
You can learn more about this new grant program here.
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Deadline Approaching: Manchester Police Department Recruiting New Officers
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Manchester Police Department is actively recruiting new officers to join one of only 18 nationally accredited agencies in Connecticut. The department maintains a K-9 team, motorcycle unit, regional tactical unit, accident reconstruction unit, regional narcotics unit, bike patrol unit, and much more. To apply, take the following steps:
- Take the CHIP test – next test is at Manchester High School on August 6 (test fee is $85, register by July 31). For additional information on upcoming assessments, registration and the C.H.I.P. card, call (203) 235-5865 or click here.
- Complete Application – applicants must be 21 years or older, have at least 60 college credits or two years of full-time active military service with honorable discharge, be a US citizen, and a valid drivers license. For a detailed list of qualifications, click here.
- Sit for the Written Exam
Following the written exam, candidates are also required to take part in an oral panel examination, background investigation, post-offer physical examination, and post-offer polygraph. If you require additional information or have questions, please contact hr@manchesterct.gov. Learn more by clicking here.
Applications are being accepted through Friday, September 30.
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Summer is Coming to an End – East Hartford Announces Outdoor Pool Closing Dates
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It's hard to believe, but the summer is coming to an end! As we prepare for kids to head back-to-school, the East Hartford Parks and Recreation department has announced the closing dates for all five of our community outdoor pools:
- Goldstar Pool – Closing Sunday, August 14 at 5PM
- Public Swim: Friday, 1PM-4PM; Saturday & Sunday, 1PM-5PM
- Drennan Pool – Closing Sunday, August 14 at 5PM
- Public Swim: Friday, 1PM-4PM and 5PM-6:30PM; Saturday & Sunday, 1PM-5PM
- Senior Swim: Friday, 4PM-5PM
- Terry Pool – Closing Sunday, August 14 at 5PM
- Public Swim: Friday, 1PM-4PM and 5PM-6:30PM; Saturday & Sunday, 1PM-5PM
- Adult Lap Swim: Friday, 4PM-5PM
- Lord Pool – Closing Sunday, August 21 at 5PM
- Public Swim: Monday-Friday, 1PM-4PM and 5PM-7PM, Saturday & Sunday, 1PM-5PM
- Senior Swim: Monday- Friday, 8:30AM-9:30AM and 4PM-5PM
- Martin Pool – Closing Sunday, August 21 at 5PM
- Public Swim: Monday-Friday, 1PM-4PM and 5PM-7PM and Saturday & Sunday, 1PM-5PM
Indoor public swim, adult lap swim, senior swim, and swim lessons will again be offered during the school year, however the 2022-2023 school year schedule has not been finalized. Parks and Recreation expects to release a schedule by the end of August so stay tuned for updates or check here for more information.
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Ready for a New Career? Efficiency For All, OWS, & Career ConneCT Offering Comprehensive Training Programs
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Looking to start a new career and make out state more energy efficient? Through a partnership between Efficiency For All, Connecticut Office of Workforce Strategy and Career (OWS), and Career ConneCT, participate in a FREE, 12-week comprehensive training program to help put you on the track towards a stable career.
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To be eligible to apply, you must:
- Have earned a High School Diploma or GED
- Have a valid driver's license
- Be 18 or older
- Display a willingness to learn and work
- Attend at least 99 percent of classes in the program
- Sign agreement to complete the course and PWE training
- Be able to lift 40 pounds and stand for periods of time
To sign-up for the next round of training, click here. If you have any questions or require additional information, email Efficiency For All at contactus@efficiencyforall.org.
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COVID-19 Updates & Upcoming Vaccine Clinics
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UConn Extension and the Town of East Hartford are working to build excitement and trust around COVID-19 vaccines and boosters. The collaboration is looking to create a 'why I got vaccinated' campaign with stories from East Hartford residents. If you are 18+ and would like to share your experience getting a COVID-19 vaccine, please fill out this short form found here. This short survey should take no more than 5 minutes to complete, and selected stories may appear on a social media post!
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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.
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The Town of East Hartford, with Griffin Hospital, will host free COVID-19 Vaccine Clinics at Raymond Library (840 Main Street) on the following dates:
- Friday, August 12 – 9AM-1PM
- Saturday, August 20 – 10:30AM-1:30PM
- Friday, August 26 – 9AM-1PM
All three brands of the vaccine will be available to all eligible CT residents ages 6 months and up. No insurance, ID, or appointment required.
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Additionally, the Town of East Hartford has partnered with Intercommunity Inc. to host Back-to-School Health Care Clinics at East Hartford Middle School and High School for all school-aged children in East Hartford:
- August 9-12, 8AM-4PM – East Hartford Middle School
- August 16-19, 8AM-4PM – East Hartford High School
The Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine will be available to children 5 and older – appointments are required for COVID-19 vaccines. To schedule an appointment call (860) 569-5900. Additional services included at the Back-to-School Health Care Clinic includes back-to-school physicals, sports physicals, and other immunizations. If you are new to the East Hartford school system this year, please bring a copy of your child’s health history, including immunizations.
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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.
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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.
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The Town of Manchester's Department of Leisure, Family, and Recreation is back for another exciting summer of "Rec on the Run," a mobile pop-up creative arts, sports, and games vehicle offering programs and activities to Manchester residents in neighborhoods and parks around our community.
For the week of August 15, the theme is "Button Up Week." Design your own button or badge and show off your individuality with your special message. Activity boxes can be picked up on a first-come, first-served basis at the following locations and times:
- Northwest Park (448 Tolland Turnpike) – Mondays, 5PM-7PM
- Westside Oval (110 Cedar Street) – Tuesdays, 5PM-7PM
- Market Field (163 Spruce Street) – Wednesdays, 5PM-7PM
- Center Memorial Park (41 Center Street) – Thursdays, 5PM-7PM
For more information, click here.
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Ever dream of making your own Herbal Tea Blend? Join Nora Toomey, Clinical Herbalist of True Bloom, at Whiton Branch Library on Wednesday, August 17 at 6:30PM to learn the basics of herbal tea making. You will explore the flavors and properties of several medicinal herbs and review herbal tea recipes for common ailments you can treat at home. This program is for adults 18+ only and registration is required. Call (860) 645-0821 to save your spot!
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Manchester Fire 8th District's Annual Peach Festival is back for it's 72nd year on Friday, August 26 from 6PM-8PM at the 8th Utilities District Fire Headquarters (138 Main Street). Peach Shortcakes will be served in plastic containers for easier take-home availability, enjoy the live music by Nightshift, in addition to the chance at winning several prizes. Tickets are on sale now for $6 and can be purchased online of in-person at the Fire Headquarters. Learn more and grab tickets here.
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TODAY, August 12 is the LAST day to register for the Inspire Girls Basketball Program. The “Inspire” Girls Summer Basketball Program, made possible by a partnership between the Town of East Hartford and The Justice Education Center, Inc., is a one-week basketball program to bring girls entering grades 1-8 together in sport, fun, and friendship. The program will run from Monday, August 15 to Friday, August 19 from 9AM-3PM at East Hartford High School.
Please note that the program is free, but there is a $25 registration fee to ensure participation. Upon completion of the program, this fee will be applied as a credit toward any East Hartford Parks and Recreation program in the coming year. Register now by clicking here.
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Bring the colors of the farmers market into your home with vibrant collages! With the East Hartford Public Library, you will use recycled paper to create art for your kitchen walls. Register in advance for a kit, and then join Zoom on Wednesday, August 17 at 6:30PM craft together. To register, click here.
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The East Hartford Police Department is now accepting applications for the 2022 Citizen Police Academy! This is a unique opportunity for citizens to learn about their police department and the work we perform in the community. Participants will get an overview of police operations, practices, and objectives.
Classes will run every Thursday from 6PM-9PM for eight weeks, starting on September 15 in the East Hartford Police Department’s Training Classroom. The deadline to apply is Friday, September 2 – apply now by clicking here. Applicants will be contacted by the Police Department with next steps. For more information, contact Officer Marc Caruso (860) 528-4401, ext. 7606, or email mcaruso@easthartfordct.gov as well as Officer Ted Branon at 860-528-4401, ext 7547, tbranon@easthartfordct.gov.
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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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