Weekly Update - June 11

June 11, 2022





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Dear Neighbor, 



It's Connecticut Open House Day! Now in its 18th year, Connecticut Open House Day celebrates the state’s diverse array of history, art, culture, nature, and adventure experiences. Residents and families across the state can enjoy more than 200 museums, arts and cultural venues, historical sites, farms, and restaurants, with free or discounted admission or special offers.

Here are some of the participating attractions in our area:

  • East Hartford Public Library – The Elton Tavern and the Center Schoolhouse will be open for free to the public from 1PM-5PM, costumed interpreters/docents will be available for tours.
  • Huguenot House Museum – Visitors will receive a guided tour of the 1761 Makens Bemont House and self-guided tours of the 1821 Goodwin School House and 1850 Burnham Blacksmith Shop in Martin Park.
  • Lutz Children's Museum – A variety of trucks will be at the museum from 12PM-3PM for everyone to check out, climb in and explore, admission to the museum is free this day.
  • Woodbridge Farmstead – Tour the grounds and restored English Barn and take tea outside or inside the farmhouse decorated with bouquets from Manchester gardens.

Find the complete list of participating attractions 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 

Connecticut's 'Ethan's Law' Passes the U.S. House

Addressing gun violence continues to be a key point of debate on Capitol Hill in the wake of recent deadly mass shootings in Uvalde, Texas and Buffalo, New York. On Wednesday, the U.S. House began to take more substantive action, passing legislation which includes a 2019 Connecticut law known as "Ethan's Law," named in memory of Ethan Song. Ethan was a 15-year-old  from Guilford, CT who died after he accidentally shot himself with an improperly stored gun in a friend’s house.

 

Like Connecticut's law, the U.S. House passed "Ethan's Law" will require that any firearms, loaded or unloaded, be securely stored if anyone in the home is under the age of 18. The measure was included in a larger package, the "Protecting Our Kids Act," which also includes measures to raise the age limit for purchasing semi-automatic refiles and limiting the sale of ammunition magazines.

 

The package passed through the U.S. House with the support of all Democrats and five Republicans, but it is unlikely to clear the hurdle of passing in the U.S. Senate. Senators Richard Blumenthal and Chris Murphy are leading bipartisan negotiations of their own legislative package, with the hope that a bipartisan deal could be secured in the next few weeks.

 

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

Hartford Courant: Connecticut parents rejoice in the U.S. House passing ‘Ethan’s Law’ as part of gun control legislation. The Senate may not be so easy to convince.
CT Insider: After ‘historic’ vote, Connecticut’s Ethan’s Law faces challenge to become national standard
Connecticut Public Radio: Federal gun laws could soon look more like Connecticut’s

East Hartford Apartment Complex Wins Another Approval

On Wednesday at a meeting of the East Hartford Planning and Zoning Commission, planners gave another key approval to the redevelopment plans of the 26-acre property at the Silver Lane Corridor. Through a partnership of Zelman Real Estate and Jasko Development, the approved plan for the property includes eight buildings with three and four stories, nearly 440 upscale apartments, and a 10,000-square-foot amenities center, gym, and pool.

 

The next phase is to seek approval from the Wetlands Commission. Assuming the project is approved, if there are no significant delays, construction could begin as soon as this fall.

 

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

Journal Inquirer: Plan offers vision for Silver Lane corridor
Hartford Courant: Proposed East Hartford apartment complex wins another approval. What comes next?

Don't Forget to Participate in the Greater Hartford Mobility Study!

The Greater Hartford Mobility Study is now in Phase 2 – during which, the study utilizes findings from Phase 1, such as the Existing Conditions Assessment and feedback from stakeholders and the public, to evaluate a list of potential alternatives. YOU play a critical role in this phase! The study team is looking for feedback from the public on theses alternative routes, which will then be tested and refined in the coming months.

 

This study has significant implications for the communities of East Hartford and Manchester – I truly can not stress enough how important your voice is in the process. (Additionally, anyone who provides feedback on the alternatives will be entered to win gift cards.)

 

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

Provide Feedback
Greater Hartford Mobility Study – Explore the Potential Alternatives
Hartford Courant: Six Things to Know About the Greater Hartford Mobility Study

Today in CT History: The First Union Officer to Die Fighting in the American Civil War

Today in 1861, 32-year-old Major Theodore Woolsey Winthrop, a descendant of one of the most important figures in the founding of Connecticut, died in action at the Battle of Bethel in eastern Virginia, one of the first land battles of the American Civil War. Winthop was the first Union officer to die fighting in that epochal conflict.

 

Born in New Haven in 1828, Theodore Winthrop was a direct descendant of both John Winthrop Sr., Puritan leader of the Massachusetts Bay Colony, and John Winthrop Jr., longtime Connecticut governor and founder of both Saybrook and New London. He graduated from Yale (where his uncle, Theodore Dwight Woolsey, was president) in 1848, and spent the next four years touring Europe and the American West. He then settled in New York City, where he studied law by day and mingled with writers and artists by night, hoping to make a name for himself as a famous author. Among his unfinished works are memoirs and travelogues of his adventures to the Pacific Northwest and several gothic-style novels portraying the vivid Bohemian-style nightlife of antebellum New York City.

 

Though Winthrop successfully published a handful of short stories and articles in local magazines and newspapers, he put his literary aspirations on hold with the start of the Civil War in April 1861. Already a member of the New York State militia, the bright young volunteer joined the Union army, quickly earning promotion to Major and a posting as aide-de-camp to Major General Benjamin Butler in Virginia.

In early June 1861, Confederate forces around the Virginia state capitol of Richmond attempted to lure Union forces out from the strategically important Fort Monroe. To counteract the Confederate thrust at Fort Monroe, General Butler sent a regiment of troops, many under the command of Major Winthrop, to attack the Confederates. The two forces met at dawn on June 10, near a town known as Big Bethel, on the Virginia peninsula. Even though the Union troops outnumbered their Confederate counterparts two to one, a number of amateurish mistakes and communications breakdowns on the Union side — including several friendly-fire incidents — gave the Confederates a huge battlefield advantage.

 

Even as things turned badly against the Union forces, many of whom were ready to flee the battlefield, Winthrop courageously attempted to rally his panicked men. He is said to have leaped on top of a tree stump and yelled, “One more charge, boys, and the day is ours.” Moments later, however, Winthrop was struck in the chest by a musket ball. The 32-year-old Connecticut-born Major subsequently died from his wounds, thus becoming the first Union officer to die in battle during the Civil War. All together, 18 Union soldiers lost their lives at Big Bethel and more than 50 were wounded, while the victorious Confederates suffered only one loss and a handful of wounded men.

 

The literary fame Theodore Winthrop sought during his lifetime arrived after his death, following the posthumous publication by his close relatives of many of his works. His novel Cecil Dreeme went through over a dozen editions in the late 19th century, and his memoir of travels through Washington Territory, titled The Canoe and the Saddle, was so popular that the town of Winthrop, Washington (as well as the famous Winthrop Hotel in Tacoma, Washington) was named in his honor.

 

Though Winthrop’s combat death made him the first Union officer to die fighting in the Civil War, he was not the first Union officer to have died in the Union cause. That distinction had gone to Colonel Ephraim Ellsworth of New York, who was shot to death by a hotel owner in Alexandria, Virginia on May 24, 1861, after Ellsworth had removed a large Confederate flag the hotelier had been flying from the roof of his establishment.

 

A promising young Union officer became the first to fall fighting in the American Civil War, today in Connecticut history.

 

If you'd like to learn more about Major Theodore Woolsey Winthrop and other interesting CT historical facts, click here.

Share Your Thoughts about the East Hartford Memorial Day Events!

A huge thank you to everyone that participated in and supported the return of East Hartford's Memorial Day Parade. The Town of East Hartford is seeking feedback from vendors, participants, and residents on what went well at the 2022 East Hartford Memorial Day Parade & Celebration, and how they may be able to make next year's parade event better.

 

Submit your feedback by clicking herethe survey will be open until Monday, June 20.

Register Now: Manchester Youth Service Bureau Offering Free Home Alone Safety Class

The Manchester Youth Service Bureau is offering a Free Home Alone Safety Class for kids ages 8-13 on Monday, June 13 from 4PM-5:30PM. This interactive workshop is designed to provide children that might be left at home alone with the tools and understanding needed to keep them safe.

 

The workshop will be held in-person at Manchester Youth Service Bureau (63 Linden Street), please note that space is limited so registration is required. To reserve a spot for your child, contact Marti Baskerville at (860) 647-6038 or email mbaskerville@manchesterct.gov. Snacks and workbooks will be provided.

CCMC Hosts 2022 Family Advocacy Week

Given the significant challenges facing our state, nation, and world, Connecticut Children's is prioritizing advocating for kids more than ever. Family Advocacy Week (Monday, June 13 to Thursday, June 16) is designed to provide opportunities to learn more about how the decisions our government makes impacts kids and about how you can make a difference! Panels will include:

 

Monday, June 12, 2:30PM-3PM: A Conversation with FCC Chairwomen Jessica Rosenworcel

Virtual Q&A moderated by Connecticut Children's President and CEO, Jim Shmerling focusing on telehealth, broadband connectivity, and the new 9-8-8 suicide prevention hotline. Register here.

 

Tuesday, June 14, 1PM-2PM: Exploring the Importance of Pediatric Research

Learn more about Connecticut Children's cutting-edge research, how research supports children's health and drives health equity, and how government leaders can support this critical work. Register here.

 

Wednesday, June 15, 9AM-10AM: The 2022 Legislative Session & Kids Behavioral Health

Panelists will break down what new laws passed this year, discuss implications, and share

their perspective on what work is still left to do. Register here.

 

Thursday, June 16, 3PM-4PM: Supporting Children's Behavioral Health in Schools

Panelists will share ways schools can integrate emotional wellness in the classroom and how

government leaders can help support this work. Register here.

 

For more information, click here.

Sign Up Opening Soon for East Hartford's Summer Youth Tennis Program

East Hartford's Parks and Recreation Department is inviting children who have completed grades K-8 to participate in this summer's Youth Tennis Program held on Mondays and Wednesdays this summer from Monday, June 20 to Monday, July 18.

Practice will be held at the East Hartford Courts in the Penny Complex with instructor John Bacon at the following times:

  • Completed Grades K-2: 5:00-5:45 PM ID: 72402-1
  • Completed Grades 3-5: 6:00-6:45 PM ID: 72402-2
  • Completed Grades 6-8: 7:00-7:45 PM ID: 72402-3

This program is for residents only (the fee is $24) and space is limited – each class will only have 12 participants. Participants are welcome to bring their own racquets, but racquets will be available on site for those who need them. Please note that there will be no class on Monday, July 4, and there are no make-ups for classes cancelled due to inclement weather. 

 

Register online here or call the Parks and Recreation Department at (860) 291-7160.

Learn to Start a Podcast with Manchester Public Library

The Manchester Public Library is pleased to host Mike Brown, CEO and Founder of Ember Studios, a multimedia company that specializes in Podcast Production and Coaching, for a two-part miniseries on starting your own podcast.

Part One of this miniseries, “So, You Want to Start a Podcast” will be held on Thursday, July 7 at 6:30PM at Whiton Branch Library, and is geared toward helping you transform from someone who isn’t quite sure into someone who can confidently start a podcast tomorrow.

Part Two, "First Steps" will take you from Confused to Confident when it comes to starting your new podcast. On Thursday, July 14 at 6:30PM, you will get specific advice on gear, how to release your show, and monetization.

 

No registration is required for this free program – and you do not need to attend both parts of the series. For more information on this event, please call (860) 645-0821 or click here.  

Save the Dates: Hornets Run It Basketball Clinic

Learn to "run it" with the Lady Hornets and strengthen fundamental basketball skills, develop leadership habits, and build confidence in an energetic gym during clinics hosted by the East Hartford Parks and Recreation Department with East Hartford High State Champs, Coach Myette and the Lady Hornets. Clinics will be held at East Hartford High School in the back gym from 5:30PM-7:30PM on the following dates:

  • Ages 5-9: July 11-July 15
  • Ages 10-12: July 18-July 22
  • Ages 13-15: July 25-July 29

To ensure high quality instruction, space is limited to 40 per clinic – registration is highly encouraged, cost is $100/week. Participants should bring positive attitudes and a water bottle. To register, click here or call the Parks and Recreation Department at (860) 291-7160.

COVID-19 Updates & Upcoming Vaccine Clinics

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 free COVID-19 Vaccine Clinics at Stone Academy (745 Burnside Avenue), Raymond Library (840 Main Street), and the Town Green (1074 Main Street) on the following dates:

  • Saturday, June 11, 11AM-2PM – Raymond Library
  • Tuesday, June 14, 3PM-7PM – Stone Academy
  • Saturday, June 18, 11AM-3PM – Town Green
  • Wednesday, June 22, 4PM-7PM – Raymond Library
  • Tuesday, June 28, 3PM-7PM – Stone Academy

All three brands of the vaccine will be available to all eligible CT residents ages 5 and up. No insurance, ID, or appointment required. For questions regarding pediatric COVID-19 vaccines, booster dose eligibility, or to schedule an appointment at an upcoming clinic, contact the East Hartford Health Department at (860) 291-7324. If transportation assistance is needed to get to/from the clinic site, please contact the Health Department for a bus pass.

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.

Join WORK_SPACE as they continue their Pride Month celebration with a Drag Show Jamboree on Saturday, June 11 from 6PM-8PM. Enjoy an evening of musical performance and games like "get to know you" bingo where the audience is the clues! RSVP is encouraged – click here to RSVP, there is a suggested $10 donation at the door.

Build a better you and join Manchester Public Library for a yoga class hosted by Blissful by Melissa for teens in grades 6-12 on Tuesday, June 14 from 3:15PM-4PM.

The Manchester Youth Service Bureau is starting the summer right with a "Summer Kick Back" on Friday, June 17, 5PM-8PM at their location at 63 Linden Street. High School Students are invited to enjoy music from DJ ChillyBean, frozen treats sponsored by Kona Ice – plus food, games, and giveaways. The first 25 to enter will be entered into a raffle for an extra special grand prize, AND youth that bring a friend will receive a door prize!

 

For more information, contact sleacock@manchester.gov or sdouglass@manchester.gov.

Did you know that Connecticut's Weir Farm was home to J. Alden Weir? Weir is best known for his work outside, painting right from what he was seeing in front of him! On Wednesday, June 15, join East Hartford Public Library from 3PM-6PM to make your own mini accordion-style sketchbook. The Library will have materials available for you, this activity is best suited for ages 6 and up. No registration required. Learn more about programming available at the Library by clicking here.

East Hartford Youth Services (EHYS) is inviting East Hartford families to join them for Summer Family Fun events beginning this Wednesday, June 15 from 5PM-7PM at their office located at 20 Chapman Place – look out for the large tent. For the kick-off event, stations will be set up so each family member can tie-dye a t-shirt – directions and all the materials needed will be supplied. Then to wrap up a great evening together a professional percussionist will lead a community drum circle. 

 

To register and learn more, click here. For additional information or if you have questions/need help to register, call (860) 291-7179.

The countdown is on for the East Hartford Juneteenth Family Celebration happening on Saturday, June 18 on the Town Green (1074 Main Street) from 11AM-3PM. This year's event is packed with fun vendors, food trucks, local entertainers, and so much more:

  • 11AM: Soro Bindi, traditional Ghanaian dances, songs, and stories with Iddi Saaka
  • 11:45AM: Welcome & Opening Remarks
  • 12:15PM: Musical Performance by Super Icon Thomas Lumpkin and Kenneth Johnson
  • 12:30PM: Jazz Performance by The Alvin Carter Project
  • 1:30PM: Storyteller Tammy Denease
  • 2PM: Caribbean Dance Performance by Grace C. Wright Performing Arts
  • 2:45PM: Spoken Word Performance by Nadiyah Roberts-Green

Admission is free, and the whole day is tailored to attendees of all ages! In case of inclement weather, the event will be moved to Sunday, June 19, 11AM-3PM. For more information, call the East Hartford Parks and Recreation Department at (860) 291-7160.

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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