Chime Scholars Foundation Applications for 2026-2027 Now Open
Offers scholarships up to $20,000 for students of all backgrounds pursuing various forms of higher education
Launched in 2022, program has helped more than 1,000 scholars achieve their educational goals
Scholarship recipients have made real financial progress, with 72% finding employment in their field of study within six months of graduation
Chime® (Nasdaq: CHYM), a leading consumer financial technology company, announced today that Chime Scholars Foundation (CSF) has opened applications for the 2026-2027 academic year. Aspiring scholars can now apply for scholarships of up to $20,000 to support their education, paving the way for greater career opportunities and higher earnings. The scholarship program is open to students of all backgrounds and stages of life, and it supports a wide range of educational pathways, including traditional college degrees, apprenticeships, trade schools, and technical certifications.
Since 2022, CSF has provided $7 million in scholarship funding to over 1,000 students. Last year alone, CSF welcomed its largest cohort of scholars to date, awarding more than $3 million in scholarships to 800 students for the 2025-2026 academic year. This work is supported by Chime’s 1% pledge, which commits 1% of its equity over a decade to fund the foundation.
“At Chime, we believe financial progress starts with access to opportunity,” said Chris Britt, CEO and Co-founder of Chime. “Through the Chime Scholars Foundation and our 1% pledge, we’re investing in ambitious students and helping remove financial barriers to education. We’re proud to have supported more than 1,000 scholars so far and excited to continue helping the next generation build brighter futures for themselves, their families, and their communities.”
The program has demonstrated strong outcomes for its scholars. According to a survey of graduates:
· 100% credit the program with helping them complete their degree or certification
· 87% projected graduation rate — nearly double that of Federal Pell Grant recipients¹
· 72% of scholars secure jobs in their field within six months of graduation
Beyond these outcomes, scholars join a supportive network of fellow CSF scholars and Chime employees. Applications for the CSF scholarship program are now open through March 31, 2026. For more information and to apply, visit the Chime Scholars Foundation website at chime.com/about-us/chime-scholars-foundation.
CTDOT Unveils $15.7 Billion Five-Year Capital Plan Featuring Hundreds of Statewide Projects
Plan advances major investments in roads, bridges, and public transportation
The Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) today published a five-year Capital Plan outlining more than $15 billion in transportation projects planned across Connecticut during Federal Fiscal Years 2026-2030. Supported by continued federal and state investments, Connecticut’s transportation infrastructure is steadily improving. CTDOT is advancing projects ranging from bridge repairs and roadway redesigns to public transit improvements and facility upgrades, making travel safer and more accessible for everyone.
“With this plan, we’re rebuilding roads and bridges, modernizing public transportation, and making it easier and safer to travel in Connecticut,” said Connecticut Department of Transportation Commissioner Garrett Eucalitto. “These long-term investments will improve safety, better connect our towns and cities, and help our state economy thrive.”
The Capital Plan, funding breakdowns, and project overviews can be viewed at portal.ct.gov/CapitalPlans. A list of all state-managed projects in design or in construction can also be explored using an interactive map. CTDOT anticipates programming approximately $3.78 billion in federal and state capital funding for all transportation modes in Fiscal Year 2026. The 2026 Capital Program includes approximately:
· $2.16 billion for bus and rail, including MOVE New Haven Bus Rapid Transit System, upgrading and building various train stations along the Waterbury Branch Line and Hartford Line, and replacing the Devon Railroad Bridge between Milford and Stratford. · $1.60 billion for roadway and bridge infrastructure, including I-91/I-691/Route 15 Interchange Improvements in Meriden and Middletown, I-95 Gold Star Memorial Bridge Rehabilitation and Multimodal Improvements in Groton and New London, and Rehabilitation of the Putnam Bridge in Glastonbury and Wethersfield. · $23.4 million to support renovating transportation facilities across the state, including expanded truck parking in Southington and a new CTDOT maintenance facility in Simsbury. · In total, the Capital Plan programs $15.70 billion in planned funding to improve safety and mobility throughout the state.
The public comment period ends February 15, 2026. Those comments will help inform the development and revisions of future Capital Plans.
For more information about the Connecticut Department of Transportation, visit ct.gov/dot.
2026 Revaluation in East Hartford
East Hartford, CT— The Town of East Hartford has commenced the state-mandated revaluation project of 2026 with the assistance of Municipal Valuations Services, LLC (Munival) of Fairfield, CT. This process continues to take place from February 2026 through December, 2026.
As part of this process, Municipal Valuation Services is mailing a Data Verification Letter to all residential property owners. This letter contains information specific to your property. Property owners are asked to review the details provided on the form, make any necessary corrections directly to the form, and return the completed form to Munival promptly. Forms can be returned directly to Munival by mail, email, fax or dropped off in person at the Assessor’s office during regular Town Hall business hours. Complete address and contact details for Munival will be printed directly on the letter.
In addition to the data verification letter, Munival will have data collection personnel assigned throughout the Town of East Hartford taking exterior photos, inspecting, and measuring the exterior and interior of residential and commercial properties. Residents and business owners should expect to see Munival staff visiting properties and knocking on taxpayer’s doors to ask questions.
To ensure the safety and authenticity of the revaluation process, all Munival personnel will carry both a Town-issued identification badge and a company badge. Additionally, field representatives will be clearly identifiable by their company logo on attire and magnetic vehicle decals. They will also carry an official letter of introduction.
This important project will help ensure accurate property assessments, which in turn supports fair and equitable tax assessments for all property owners.
Please call Municipal Valuation Services at (203) 292-5500 for any additional information or questions.
LEGISLATIVE BUSINESS
We were BACK IN SESSION on Wednesday, February 4th. I am gearing up for a busy short session, working hard to pass critical legislation through May 6th. Please feel free to reach out to my office with any questions or concerns you may have.
2026 Legislative Survey
Our legislative session is now underway, and one thing that makes our work better is when we get to hear from you. I hope you’ll take my survey and reach out to me directly if I can ever be of any help.
Please join us for an important and timely discussion on the impact and implementation of An Act Concerning Housing Growth. This session will provide an overview of the legislation, explore what it means for our community, and outline how it will be put into practice at the local level.
As housing availability and affordability continue to shape the future of our neighborhoods, it is essential that residents, stakeholders, and community leaders understand both the opportunities and responsibilities created by this new law. We will review key provisions of the Act, discuss anticipated benefits and challenges, and answer questions about how it may affect housing development, planning, and community growth. We hope you will join us.
This Week In Connecticut History
Today in 1976, a 19-year-old ice skater born in Greenwich captivated audiences worldwide with her masterful, gold-medal-winning performance at the Olympic Games in Innsbruck, Austria. Her near perfect routine would catapult her to international stardom and, along with a unique hair style that created a national craze, it would also set Dorothy Hamill on a path to becoming one of the most beloved U.S. athletes of all time.
The soon-to-be world famous skating superstar fell in love with skating as a child growing up in Greenwich, Connecticut. There, after receiving her first pair of skates at the age of eight, she ventured out onto the ice on a frozen pond behind her grandparents’ home. Determined to keep pace on the ice with her older sister, Dorothy asked her parents for formal skating lessons. Within a year, she was entering — and winning — regional skating competitions in nearby New York City.
As a teenager, Dorothy began training more intensely, both in New York City and in Colorado Springs, and won the first of three consecutive U.S. National Championships at the age of 17. It wasn’t until 1976, however, that Hamill’s skating career found an international spotlight: That year, at the age of 19, she won the “triple crown” of ice skating, winning the U.S. National Championship, the World Championship, and on February 13, the Olympic gold medal for freestyle skating. Hamill’s Olympic performance was one for the history books; she earned a nearly perfect score in all categories and was the last Olympic skater to earn a gold medal without including a triple jump in her routine.
Dorothy Hamill featured on the February 2, 1976 issue of Time Magazine
While winning international accolades, Hamill also skated her way into the hearts of millions who watched her Olympic performance on national television. Viewers were both captivated by her athleticism and charmed by her humble, girl-next-door demeanor. Hamill’s short “wedge” haircut became a nationwide fashion trend, and the young superstar, having formally decided to go professional, was inundated with endorsement and sponsorship offers. Between product endorsements and a lucrative contract with the Ice Capades, Hamill became the first athlete in U.S. history to earn more than $2 million annually during her first two years as a pro. Today, Hamill remains an active ice skater, but is better known for her philanthropic work, which includes raising awareness for breast cancer and fighting mental illness. A Connecticut athlete with a winning way leaped into stardom, today in Connecticut history.
The Budget Adoption is scheduled for Tuesday, April 21, 2026 at 7pm in the Lincoln Center Hearing Room.
📣 Manchester residents - if you would like to learn more about your town's budget, consider attending a budget workshop to see how your tax dollars are spent. Join us and be part of the conversation.
You can view the Full Schedule of FY27 Budget Workshops & Meetings byclicking here.(, 0B)
Please note that workshops will be held in the Lincoln Center Hearing Room at 5:30 p.m.
The meeting is a public meeting and as such members of the public can also attend the meeting in-person or remotely by means of video conferencing.
Meetings will be conducted in person with remote access optional via Zoom.
The Town of Manchester’s Downtown Arts and Culture Grant Program seeks to encourage and support initiatives, events and installations that contribute to the vibrancy and engaging atmosphere in the Downtown area defined by the boundaries of the Special Services District (map attached) plus Charter Oak Park, Center Memorial Park and Center Springs Park.
Funding is available to be granted for individuals or organizations that effectively propose initiatives, projects, events or installations that the Oversight Committee determines to be most appropriate and timely for this round of grant awards.
Applications are due to the Budget & Research Office electronically by 5:00 p.m. Friday, February 13, 2026. The Committee’s intention is to award grants by March 10, 2026.
We live in a time when it is easy to be impressed by the polished lives we see online—beautiful people, perfect posts, endless followers. But real confidence and joy don’t come from likes or views; they come from feeling strong, connected, and grounded. As we move into the winter months, I encourage you to focus on building a healthy mind and body. Take a look through the Manchester Now catalog to discover activities that fit your interests and inspire you to stay active and engaged. Whether it’s joining a fitness class, exploring a new hobby, or connecting with others through community programs, these small choices can make a bid difference. Stay the course this winter, and by spring, you’ll be ready to step into the new season feeling refreshed, energized, and ready for all that’s ahead.
Effective December 24, 2025, U.S. Postal Service updated its rules, meaning most automated, machine-applied postmarks now reflect the date an item is first processed at a regional facility, rather than the date it was dropped off. The Collector of Revenue must use a USPS postmark for interest purposes, therefore, please make sure you allow several extra days for delivery, especially near deadlines, as automated processing may not occur immediately. You can also visit a post office retail counter and request a hand-stamped, manual postmark to guarantee the current day’s date.
The last day to pay the second installment of real estate and personal property taxes as well as supplemental motor vehicle taxes is February 2, 2026. Any tax payments with a postmark of February 3, 2026, or later will accrue interest at 1.5% per month from the due date, January 1st.
African American and Black Affairs Council 2025-2026
The African American and Black Affairs Council is an organization that empowers, supports and advocates for the Black community in Manchester, CT. For more info Dana Hebertaabacom04@gmail.com
When
Wednesday, February 18, 2026 | 06:30 PM - 08:00 PM
Monday, March 02, 2026 | 06:30 PM - 08:00 PM
Wednesday, March 18, 2026 | 06:30 PM - 08:00 PM
First Aid & CPR Classes 2026
* We hold multiple classes on the same day utilizing different classrooms.
The dates for the following 5 classes are February 21st, March 21st, and April 25th
1.) Pediatric First Aid & CPR this class is hybrid with the first half being taught live through Zoom starting at 8:30am. Followed by a 45 min break to give students enough time to drive to the Fire Station for the in-person porting of the class. Class will end around 2:30/3:00pm
This class is geared toward Childcare Providers, Parents & Foster Parents approved by the Office of Early Childhood. This class is also perfect for school staff, couches and babysitters. This class also includes choking relief for all ages.
2.) AHA Heartsaver Pediatric CPR AED only noon to 3:00pm. This class also includes choking relief for all ages.
3.) AHA Heartsaver CPR 8:30 to 11:00am This class also includes choking relief.
4.) AHA BLS CPR for Healthcare Providers , First Responders, their Support Staff & College students going into the health field. 8:30 am to 11:30 am. Our classes are approved by all CT Colleges and complies with all health & health allied major's clinical requirements.
Class includes Adult and Infant CPR AED with the use of a Bag Valve Mask (BVM) device for respirations and emphasis on team dynamics, adult and infant choking relief for all ages.
• Accident prevention & safety for both indoor & outdoor play area, toy safety, car safety including child restraint systems • Poisoning including lead, plants & chemical poisoning • Child Abuse including types, signs & regulations pertaining to mandated reporters
• Communicable disease prevention, recognition, management & ways of transmission, Signs & symptoms of common illnesses • Infection control including hand washing, diapering & vaccinations
• Respiratory distress including Asthma & upper respiratory infections
• Choking relief for all ages
• First Aid Kits
• Heat and cold temperature related illness & injuries
• Bleeding control
• Burns
• Muscle & Bone injuries including splinting
Subjects usually covered but not limited to in our Adult First Aid classes are
• Recognition & Management of both physical & medical Emergencies,
📣 East Hartford residents - if you would like to learn more about your town's budget, consider attending a budget workshop to see how your tax dollars are spent. Join us and be part of the conversation.
East Hartford celebrates Black History Month 2026 with community events, including an African Diasporic Drumming workshop on Feb. 16 at the East Hartford Library and musical performances featuring the Sounds of A&R on Feb. 10. Local schools and the Urban League of Greater Hartford are also hosting cultural performances and educational showcases.
Key 2026 East Hartford & Local Area Events:
African Diasporic Drumming (Feb. 16): An interactive event at the East Hartford Public Library (Wickham Library) exploring rhythm and history.
Urban League of Greater Hartford Celebration (Feb. 19): The 11th annual event, "A Legacy Revealed | United in Strength," features an interactive exhibit and awards at the Mark Twain House & Museum in nearby Hartford.
East Hartford Public Schools (EHPS): Schools are celebrating with performances, art displays, and curriculum-focused lessons, including potential events at O’Brien Elementary, CT IB Academy, and East Hartford Middle School.
Public Safety Notice - Prevent Home Fires: Use Portable Heaters Safely
Public Safety Notice - Prevent Home Fires: Use Portable Heaters Safely The East Hartford Fire Marshal’s Office reminds all residents that a leading cause of residential fires continues to be the improper use of portable heating appliances. As temperatures drop, many households rely on space heaters and other portable devices for warmth. Used incorrectly, these appliances can quickly lead to dangerous and even fatal fires. Please take a moment to review these important guidelines to keep your home and family safe. Safe Use of Portable Heaters: 1. Keep a safe distance.
Maintain at least 3 feet (1 meter) of clearance between heaters and anything that can burn—furniture, bedding, curtains, clothing, or paper.
2. Plug heaters directly into wall outlets.
Never use extension cords or power strips, as they can overheat and ignite.
Inspect the cord and plug for damage before every use.
3. Choose heaters with automatic shut-off features.
Look for units that turn off if tipped over or overheating occurs.
4. Place heaters on flat, sturdy surfaces.
Avoid carpeting or unstable furniture where the heater might tip.
5. Turn heaters off when sleeping or leaving the room.
Portable heaters should never be used unattended.
6. Keep children and pets away.
Maintain a “kid-free zone” of at least 3 feet.
Additional Fire Safety Requirements & Codes These practices align with national fire safety standards such as the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) codes and commonly adopted local regulations:
Smoke Alarms: Install working smoke alarms on every level of your home, inside each bedroom, and outside sleeping areas. Test alarms monthly and replace batteries at least once a year.
Carbon Monoxide (CO) Alarms: Required in homes with fuel-burning appliances, fireplaces, or attached garages. Install CO alarms outside sleeping areas and on every level.
Clear Exits: Keep all exits, hallways, and stairways clear of portable heaters or other obstructions.
Electrical Safety: Avoid overloading outlets. If breakers trip or cords become warm, stop using the appliance immediately.
Approved Appliances: Use only UL-listed or third-party tested heating devices. Never use ovens, stovetops, or grills to heat your home.
A Message from the East Hartford Fire Marshal’s Office Your safety is our top priority. By using portable heaters responsibly and following fire safety codes, you help protect not only your household but your neighbors and the entire East Hartford community. If you have questions about home heating safety, need help checking your smoke or CO alarms, or would like additional resources, please contact the East Hartford Fire Department’s Fire Prevention Division. Stay warm. Stay safe. Prevent fires.
My office is always open if you or your family are in need of assistance. Please do not hesitate to contact me by email atJason.Rojas@cga.ct.govor by phone at 860-240-8541.
