Labor Day, Back-to-School, and more

September 1, 2023


 
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Dear Neighbor,

Happy Friday! I hope everyone's first week back-to-school was successful! For anyone who is feeling nervous or anxious about back-to-school, I have some resources linked below.  Additionally, in this week's eblast, please find information on Labor Day, Fairfield's first Oktoberfest, last night's Overdose Awareness Vigil, and more. You can use the links below to navigate between sections.
       
      Labor Day
      I want to start off by wishing you all a happy long weekend, and to celebrate Labor Day this Monday, Sept. 4. Labor Day is a day to reflect on and thank all of the American workers across the country who make our nation so strong. We have come so far in crafting policy that protects working class residents in Connecticut and across the country, and I promise to continue advocating for workers. Thank you again for all you do, and happy Labor Day! 
       
      Overdose Awareness Day Vigil 
      Everyday in CT, 4 people lose their life to overdose. It was powerful to stand with survivors in recovery and friends and family who have lost loved ones to addiction at last night’s Overdose Awareness Day Vigil hosted by Fairfield Cares. I was blown away by the bravery of all the speakers sharing their stories of addiction, loss, struggle, hope, and journeys to recovery.

      One speaker from Liberation Programs shared that 1 in 10 people with substance use disorder get into recovery- focusing on harm reduction is for the other 9. As I shared earlier this summer, I had the privilege to participate in a Yale workgroup on harm reduction such as needle exchanges, safe injection sites, availability of narcan, and Family Care Plans for people living with substance use disorder. There is still a tremendous amount of work to do to reduce the stigma and shame of substance use disorder and to implement supports that recognize individuals’ human dignity while reducing the harms associate with addiction.

      If you or anyone you know needs help with substance use disorder you can call: 1-800-563-4086.
       
      Working Through Back to School Worries
      Starting a new school year can brings a lot of anxiety to kids and teens. Here are some tips on how to talk to your kids and hopefully help to reduce their worries.
       
      Youth Basketball Signups
      It’s already that time to register for Youth Basketball!  The Parks and Recreation league is for boys and girls in grades 2 – 8. Each team has a 1 hour practice during the week and plays 1 game on Saturdays. Practices start in December and games start in January. Register before the deadline of Thursday, October 26th to be placed on the same team as last year.
      More information and online registration at www.fairfieldrecreation.com
       
      Fairfield Food Truck Festival
      It's coming back! In just two weeks, the fantastic Fairfield Food Truck Festival returns to us at Jennings Beach, from 11am to 6pm on Sunday, September 10. Come early for the best and tastiest selections!

      Since 2017, thousands of food fans have flocked to Jennings Beach to sample tasty dishes from the area's best food trucks.
      Don't miss this family-friendly event brought to you by the Friends of the Fairfield Public Library. All proceeds benefit the Fairfield Public Library.
      Lobster Craft
      Milkcraft
      Cowabunga
      Proof Pizza
      Taste of Grill
      Fork in the Road
      Fresko
      Soulfully Vegan
      and many more!
       
      Fairfield's Inaugural Oktoberfest
      The Town of Fairfield will host its inaugural Oktoberfest on Saturday, September 23rd from 2:00 PM - 6:00 PM in the Fairfield Theatre Company & Sanford Street lots. This first of its kind, outdoor event is a partnership of the Fairfield Parks & Recreation Department, Experience Fairfield, & Fairfield Theatre Company.
       
      Museums, Games & Play Summit

      The Fairfield Museum will be participating in the Museums, Games & Play Summit, a virtual conference hosted by MuseumNext on October 23 & 24! Stay tuned for program details!
       
      I'm committed to ensuring your voice is heard. Please don't hesitate to call my office at (860) 240-8585 or email me if there's anything I can do for you. Be sure to follow @LeeperForFairfield on Facebook and Instagram to stay up-to-date on everything I'm doing at the Capitol.

      Sincerely,

      Jennifer Leeper
      State Representative
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