DEA’s National Prescription Drug Take Back Day

October 3, 2025

Dear Neighbor,

I hope you have had a great week. Please keep reading for information about National Prescription Drug Take Back Day, a recap of the West Haven Apple Festival, and more!

DEA’s National Prescription Drug Take Back Day

The DEA’s National Prescription Drug Take Back Day will take place on October 25 from 10 AM - 2 PM. On this day, residents will be able to safely and securely dispose of unused or expired medications. Click here to find a drop-off site near you.

If you are unable to attend on October 25, or if you're looking for convenient disposal options throughout the year, MyOldMeds.com is a valuable resource. They offer a free, easy-to-use locator tool that connects residents to the 354 disposal sites across Connecticut.

Morning at the Connecticut River

Last Friday, I visited the Connecticut River with Rep. LaMark Muir, Rep. Ryan, and Jeremiah from the CT Agricultural Experiment Station’s Office of Aquatic Invasive Species.

Jeremiah showed us several areas impacted by hydrilla and walked us through the state’s remediation efforts, including the different methods being used to combat this invasive plant. It was a valuable learning experience about the work being done to protect our waterways.

West Haven Apple Festival

The West Haven Apple Festiva was held last weekend. I was able to enjoy live music, check out local vendors, and try some delicious food.

Halloween Decoration Tips for CT DCP

As you prepare to begin decorating for the Halloween season, please check out this list of safety tips provided by the Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection

Avoid candles, opt to use battery-powered lights or glow sticks.
Make sure your lights are reputable and were tested by a recognized lab (look for UL, ETL, or CSA marks on the packaging).
Inspect every cord, toss any with cracked sockets, frayed wires, or loose connections.
Place decorations wisely to keep walkways clear and trick-or-treaters safe.

ICYMI - Optimum’s 18th Annual Hispanic Heritage Essay Contest

Optimum’s 18th Annual Hispanic Heritage Essay Contest is now accepting entries. Interested applicants must write an essay about their connection to Hispanic culture in 500 words or less. The contest is open to middle and high school students.

Essays must be submitted by October 31. Click here to learn more.

DOT Update

Service Plaza Mainline Sign and Sign Support Replacements on I-95 and I-395

The Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) has begun a service plaza mainline sign and sign support replacement project on I-95 in West Haven. This project is scheduled to be completed on Sunday, January 3, 2027. Work will be conducted from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

CTDOT Is Developing Plans to Upgrade Pedestrian Amenities at Traffic Control Signals in Southwestern Connecticut

CTDOT is also developing plans to upgrade pedestrian accommodations in various municipalities in Southwestern Connecticut, including New Milford. The project involves revising the pedestrian amenities at 24 existing traffic control signals. The work will include pedestals, pedestrian countdown signal heads, accessible pedestrian push buttons, signing and pavement markings, sidewalks and sidewalk ramps.

Click here to learn more.