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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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East Hartford Fire Department Receives $875,000 Grant for New Training & Better Equipment
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Last week, I joined Congressman John Larson, Mayor Mike Walsh, members of the East Hartford Fire Department and the East Hartford Legislative Delegation to announce $875,000 in funding to support new training and better equipment as part of FEMA’s Assistance to Firefighters Grant.
Specifically, this grant will allow the department to purchase much needed Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus, Automated CPR compression devices, as well as staff training to improve the department's ability to protect critical infrastructure.
Through this funding, we can ensure our first responders have the resources needed to support a safer community. The grant is the largest amount of money the department has received from the Assistance to Firefighters Grant program, which is funded through the American Rescue Plan Act.
I would like to know, what do you think of this issue?
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Public Hearing to Address Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program on Monday
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The Appropriations, Energy and Technology, and Human Services Committee will be holding a joint public hearing on Monday, August 29 at 10AM to discuss the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP).
The public is welcome to testify via Zoom or by submitting written testimony. If you’d like to testify via Zoom, register by 3PM on Friday, August 26 here. If you do not have internet access, testimony can also be given via telephone - to register to testify by phone, call (860) 240-0033 and provide your contact information.
To submit written testimony, email a word or PDF document to APPTestimony@cga.ct.gov; ETTestimony@cga.ct.gov; HSTestimony@cga.ct.gov.
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Today in CT History: The State’s First POW From “The Undeclared War” Comes Home
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In the late evening hours of August 25, 1953, a motorcade carrying Corporal John H. F. Teal pulled into Hartford’s North End, where a small crowd of family and friends were eagerly gathered to welcome him home. Teal had just been returned to the United States after spending 32 months in a Korean prison camp. As the city’s first returning P.O.W. from the Korean War, which was never officially declared a war, his homecoming attracted plenty of attention. Festivities were originally scheduled for August 25th but were moved ahead one day because Teal’s motorcade had been delayed on its journey from Worcester, Massachusetts.
Hartford pulled out all the stops in welcoming Corporal Teal back home. An all-day block party with a live orchestra, community dance, and huge lunch buffet took place in the city’s North End. The young veteran was also honored with a ride in a patriotic motorcade to City Hall amid hundreds of onlookers and well-wishers.
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Newspaper accounts described Teal as tall, handsome, and soft-spoken, and evidently a bit overwhelmed by the attention showered upon him by everyone from friends and family to state dignitaries and complete strangers. Hartford Councilman John J Mahon Jr. presented Teal with the key to the city amid a short, patriotic speech at City Hall. Mahon told Teal: “As you can see by the spirit of the people here today, Hartford’s heart has gone out to you. The City Council has already been notified that there is a good position available to you in local industry, and we are sure that other citizens in the town will demonstrate their affection for you in equally important ways.”
Mahon’s words were quite prophetic: By the end of the week, a collection among residents from Hartford’s North End had been started to procure funds toward buying the corporal and his family a new home. A local clothier had also offered Teal a brand-new suit in any style of his choosing, free of charge, to wear to his new civilian job. Hartford’s patriotism and community spirit was on full display, today in Connecticut history.
If you'd like to learn more about Corporal John H. F. Teal and other interesting CT historical facts, click here.
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Manchester Water Department Alerts Residents on Water Conservation
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The Manchester Water Department has issued a water conservation alert to all residents, businesses, institutions, and users of the potable water supply because the levels of the Town’s reservoirs have dropped to 77.3 percent of capacity due to the lack of precipitation and general water usage.
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What does this mean for you? Because of the current levels, the town is asking you to conserve water as much as possible. Simple steps like taking shorter showers, running dishwashers and washing machines only with full loads, shutting off the water while washing hands, shaving and brushing teeth and minimizing the watering of lawns and gardens can really help.
The goal is that if residents take these steps now, the town will be able to avoid any mandatory water usage restrictions. If you require additional information or have any questions, click here or call the Water Department at (860) 647-3115.
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Reminder: Sales Tax Free Week Ends on Saturday
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There's still time to utilize Connecticut's 2022 Sales Tax Free Week! Through this Saturday, August 27 most clothing and footwear items priced under $100 are exempt from the Connecticut sales tax. The exemption during Sales Tax Free Week applies to each eligible item costing under $100, regardless of how many of those items are sold to a customer in the same transaction. The tax holiday applies to purchases made in-store, online, mail-order, and over the phone.
More information about Connecticut’s Sales Tax Holiday, including a list of exempt and taxable items, is available on the Department of Revenue Services website.
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Coffee & Conversation on Reimagining Manchester's Closed Schools on August 30
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Join the Manchester School Repurpose Task Force for a casual conversation on Tuesday, August 30 at 6:30PM to talk about reuse strategies for Manchester's decommissioned schools. The hope of Tuesday's "Coffee and Conversation," is for participants to provide insight pertaining to community needs and different reuse ideas.
The event will be held in the Gallery at WORK_SPACE (901-903 Main Street). Light refreshments will be served, and all participants are encouraged to bring a friend and or family member. To learn more about the progress of the Repurpose School project, click here.
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Scam Alert from the Connecticut Department of Labor
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The Connecticut Department of Labor (DOL) is alerting residents of a series of text scams that include links to fake web pages resembling CTDOL unemployment pages, including the unemployment benefits login page.
The texts appear to come from the agency and may read: ‘Connecticut’s Department of Labor warn Your account is abnormal’ or ‘Your unemployment is updated and logged in to view’.
It is strongly advised to ignore and delete these texts as the CTDOL does not process claims or verify identity and account information through text or social media.
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The only place to get information about your unemployment account is at www.ReEmployCT.com or call the Consumer Contact Center at www.FileCTUI.com.
If you think your personal information has been compromised, please notify your local law enforcement. In the case where you believe an unemployment claim has been filed using your identity, report that to the Department of Labor as well. The agency has information, reporting tools, and resources available on its fraud page.
Cyber security experts recommend regular account maintenance to maintain the integrity and security of your personal information. Best practices include:
- Use different passwords for your social media, banking, email, and other accounts.
- Change your passwords regularly.
- Use strong passwords—upper and lowercase letters, symbols, possibly a short phrase in lieu of a single word, and stay away from dictionary words.
- Monitor your accounts—if you had an email breach, other accounts may also be compromised.
If you receive a message via text or email and it seems suspicious, do not reply to the message, instead, independently search out the contact information for the organization so you can confirm the communication.
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East Hartford Offering Free Community Emergency Response Team Training
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The Town of East Hartford is currently accepting applications for the Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) Basic Training Course. Attendees will learn about disaster preparedness for the hazards that might impact their area and trains residents on basic disaster response skills. Enrolled students will receive equipment and the opportunity to apply to join East Hartford CERT team upon course completion.
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There is no previous experience needed to participate in the training. Classes will be a combination of hands-on experience as well as lecture style, and they are designed to offer students decision-making and practical skills needed to safely assist families, neighbors, and coworkers in the event of an emergency or disaster.
Attendees should plan for classes to be held every Wednesday evening for 10 weeks starting on September 14 from 7PM-9PM at the East Hartford Public Safety Complex (31 School Street.)
The training is free; however, pre-registration is required as the class size is limited to 25 participants. Apply now by clicking here. Printed applications can also be picked up at East Hartford Fire Department Headquarters or by contacting CERT Coordinator Paul Belanger at (860) 881-6964 or pbelanger@easthartfordct.gov.
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Manchester Fire Flow Test on August 29
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The Town of Manchester will conduct a fire flow/hydraulic capacity test at 31 Buckland Hills Drive, the Lowes/Target Plaza, to determine the effects upon the water distribution system. The test will take place Monday August 29 at 3AM and should be completed by 6:30 AM.
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The hydrant flow test may result in reduced pressure and/or discoloration of the water around 31 this area. If water appears discolored, avoid using it until it clears. This will prevent rust and sediment from being brought into the home’s system. If sediment does get into a home’s hot water tank, the water customer should wait until the water clears and then open the faucet at the bottom of the tank to drain the collected material, which will settle at the bottom.
It normally takes a few hours for the water to clear. If water appears discolored for an extended period, the homeowner should call the Water Division at (860) 647-3201. For more information, click here.
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Just Announced: East Hartford Indoor Public Swim Schedule
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East Hartford Parks and Recreation has announced that they will be resuming the indoor public swimming schedule at East Hartford Middle School (use the entrance on Scotland Road). Public swim for residents and non-residents will be offered weekday evening beginning Tuesday, September 6 at the following times:
Mondays, Tuesdays, & Thursdays:
Senior Swim: 4:30PM-5:30PM
Open Swim: 5:30PM-8:30PM
Adult Lap Swim: 8:30PM-9:15PM
Wednesdays:
Open Swim: 6:30PM-8:30PM (Wednesday, September 7 - 21 only)
Adult Lap Swim: 8:30PM-9:15PM
Fridays:
Open Swim: 6:30PM-8:30PM (Wednesday, September 7 - 21 only)
Adult Lap Swim: 8:30PM-9:15PM
Please note that the above schedule is subject to change and swimmers may share the pool with programs going on at the same time.
Pool admission is free to residents! Non-residents are welcome for $5/person, including children (you may also purchase an annual pool pass for $120, which can be prorated monthly).
Parks and Recreation is still working on the details for fall indoor swim lessons, but they anticipate offering lessons for residents and non-residents on Wednesday evenings or Saturday mornings beginning in late September. Additionally, the department anticipates offering Aqua Aerobics and Aqua Zumba on Tuesday and Thursday evenings beginning in late September – so stay tuned for those announcements!
For more information on aquatic programs or the pool rules, click here or call Parks and Recreation at (860) 291-7160.
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Invasive Species Alert: Spotted Lanternfly
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The Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) has identified a highly invasive species of insect called the Spotted Lanternfly in the state and has declared a quarantine for the movement of any materials (brush, trees, firewood, pallets, really – anything) to try to prevent the spread of this invasive insect.
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So far, only a few individual adults have been spotted in Connecticut, but a potential infestation could be devastating to Connecticut’s agricultural industry. If you believe you have found a Spotted Lanternfly, DEEP recommends:
For more images of Spotted Lanternflies at different stages of its life cycle and examples of the many different signs of possible infestation, click here.
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Monkeypox Updates & Vaccine Information
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Monkeypox is a rare disease caused by infection with the monkeypox virus – at this time there are 86 reported cases in Connecticut. Symptoms of monkeypox can include fever, headache, muscle aches and backache, swollen lymph nodes, chills, exhaustion, and a rash. Monkeypox can spread from person-to-person through:
- Direct contact with the infectious rash, scabs, or body fluids
- Respiratory secretions during prolonged, face-to-face contact, or during intimate physical contact
- Touching items (such as clothing or linens) that previously touched the infectious rash or body fluids of an infected person
- Pregnant people can spread the virus to their fetus through the placenta
Currently, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is not recommending widespread vaccination against monkeypox. However, vaccination may be recommended for some people who:
- Are closer personal contacts of people with monkeypox
- May have been exposed to the virus
- May have increased risk of being exposed to the virus due to occupation
If you currently have symptoms, vaccination is NOT recommended. Vaccine is also available to people who meet ALL the following:
- Gay, bisexual, or other men who have sex with men, and/or transgender, gender non-conforming, or gender non-binary individuals
- Have had multiple or anonymous sex partners in the last 14 days
- Age 18 or older
- Connecticut resident, regardless of immigration status
For those who meet the eligibility requirements, the vaccine will be available at the following health centers in our area by appointment only:
The monkeypox vaccine, Jynneos, requires two shots and takes a total of 6 weeks to become fully effective. To review the CT-DPH Jynneos Vaccine Frequently Asked Questions, click here.
More information can be found here.
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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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A reminder that there is a new policy for handling COVID-19 in the new school year. Being called "Test, Mask, Go," parents and caregivers are now being urged to test their children if they exhibit cold symptoms, then to send them to school in a mask if they test negative. If your child tests positive for COVID-19 or is showing more serious symptoms like high fevers, officials recommend the child stay home. More information can be found here.
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The Town of East Hartford, with Griffin Hospital, will host a free COVID-19 vaccine clinic at Raymond Library (840 Main Street) on 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.
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.
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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 Capital Region East Operating Committee (CREOC) is hosting a Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) Collection Event in Manchester at the regional HHW facility on Saturday, August 27 8AM-1PM.
HHW is generally defined as a household waste that is toxic, flammable, reactive or corrosive. Common HHW includes oil-based paints, thinners, pool chemicals, pesticides, mercury fever thermometers, and gasoline. To find a list of acceptable items click here, and for a list of unacceptable items click here. All materials must be left in their original containers.
Be sure to bring your driver's license, and a tax bill or car registration to prove residency. All cars must be in line by 1PM to be serviced. Cars arriving after 1PM will not be serviced.
For more information, click here.
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Silk City Fest is back on Saturday, August 27 from 1PM-10PM at Purnell Place in Downtown Manchester. Enjoy live music all day, local craft beer, great food trucks, the Vendor Village, interactive art and so much more! Bring the family, bring your friends, bring a chair - stay for a little, stay the whole day into the evening.
Silk City Fest is made possible by a grant from the Town of Manchester’s Downtown Arts and Culture Grant Program. Click here to learn more.
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Stop by Manchester Public Library on Monday, August 29 at 6:30PM to learn more about Edith Wharton – a socialite among the elite of New York at the turn of the twentieth century. Wharton's life and writings about the Gilded Age will be discussed. Additionally, the program will touch briefly on the current HBO series, The Gilded Age, and its representation of a unique and fascinating period in American history. No registration required for this free, adult event.
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Now available in the children's department at the Raymond Library - borrow a kit or backpack to kickstart your child's early literacy skills! It's super simple, just check out for 4 weeks like you would check out books and enjoy. For current hours, other upcoming programs, or digital resources, click here.
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Did you know that Mayberry and Silver Lane schools offer Family Resource Centers? Each center offers FREE, high-quality programs including play and learn groups, home visits, workshops, and resource referrals. Learn more about the centers are one of the upcoming open houses on Wednesday, August 31 and Thursday, September 1 from 8:30AM-10:30AM.
Be sure to register for the open house:
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Bring a picnic for a lunchtime show on the library lawn on Saturday, September 10 at 1PM! Based in East Hartford, the Hartford Steel Symphony has been providing musical enjoyment to audiences since 1989, featuring soca, calypso, reggae, pop, classical, gospel, and jazz tunes: all with an island rhythm.
Suited for all ages, plan to bring chairs or a picnic blanket. In the event of inclement weather, this program will be moved indoors. Register for an event reminder!
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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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