Dangerously Cold Weather & Local School Recognized

January 19, 2024


If you take one step outside, you already know it’s dangerously cold out there. The state is now under a severe cold weather protocol through noon on Monday. Anyone in need of shelter is urged to call 2-1-1 to find a shelter in their community. CLICK HERE to learn more.
The cold and snowy weather didn't stop folks all over the 114th district to play in the snow! Check out the cute snowman at the Orange CT Land Trust!

Apple recognized a local school for its use technology. I'll break down how Beecher Road Elementary is using computers and iPads to enhance the classroom experience.

The state is doing all it can to keep up with thousands of unemployment insurance claims. Keep scrolling to find out how you can avoid calling the contact center and get your questions answered more quickly online.

Here are the sections and topics in this week's email:

  • Listening To Your Voices
  • Woodbridge School Recognized
  • Derby Looking For Volunteers
  • Unemployment Insurance Reminders
  • In The News
  • Derby Events Calendar
  • Upcoming Events in Hamden
  • Orange Events Calendar
  • Upcoming Events in Woodbridge
 
Listening to Your Voices
My colleagues I listened to folks at a wonderful nonprofit that specializes in community behavioral health. BH Care provides a comprehensive array of treatment and support services to help those on the path to recovery.

One of those services is the Valley Social Club, which allows members to play games, go to dances, and so much more. We met those members who shared their day-to-day struggles, concerns, and priorities. Their feedback is invaluable, and we will bring their message to the Capitol.

 
Woodbridge School Recognized
Apple recognized Beecher Road Elementary School in Woodbridge for inspiring, imagining, and affecting teaching and learning through continuous innovation. Beecher Road was one of two schools in the state to be named an Apple Distinguished School for its use of technology. 

Students create their own news broadcast, write their own scripts, film the show on I-Pads, and edit the entire episode on their own. They conduct their own research on individual topics and inform their audience on the work they have compiled. Their work has benefited the entire Beecher Road community!

Teachers also utilize technology to enhance the classroom experience. They use specific programs to identify individual student needs, provide immediate feedback, and increase collaboration activities. Congratulations to Beecher Road Elementary!
 
Derby Looking For Volunteers
The city of Derby is looking for capable and committed volunteers to help our community a better place. You can help by joining a City Board or Commission. CLICK HERE to sign up or refer a friend, neighbor, or family member.
 
Unemployment Insurance Reminders
The Connecticut Department of Labor (CTDOL) is overwhelmed with claims for Unemployment Insurance. CTDOL’s Consumer Contact Center unemployment claims representatives have more than 13,000 appointments scheduled in just the next two weeks. You can help out even if you need assistance, and the CTDOL is offering some tips.
The top two reasons filers need assistance:
 
1.      Forgotten username or password.
  • Filers should write down their username/password combination and store it in a safe location or in a digital password keeper. Passwords must be reset in accordance to federal rules for unemployment benefits.

Filers do not need to make an appointment to talk to a claims agent. They can reset their passwords by submitting the lockout form online. That is faster than scheduling an appointment.
 2.      Ten-day processing period. 

  • Unemployment claims must go through a verification process that includes employer notification as well as identity and fraud prevention checks. This verification period takes a minimum of 10 days. Claims will not be paid out until they are processed in accordance with state and federal law. 

The Connecticut Department of Labor encourages filers to submit a case online rather than calling to make an appointment as it is often results in a more timely response and resolution.

 
In The News
Milford-Orange Times: "Together We Will Make A Difference"
 
Derby Events Calendar
Check out the event below, and click the button at the bottom of this section to access the community calendar.
Need a night off from cooking? On January 19th, go down to Panera and order dinner! Your order will benefit all the kids of Bradley School! Field trips, author visits, field day, and other activities throughout the year are sponsored by the Bradley School PTA. Stop in and help out!
A minimum of five psychics will be available for private readings. All readings are $35 for 20 minutes. Doors are open from 4:00 P.M. - 9:00 P.M at Twisted Vine Restaurant.

Food and drink available. Free Admission with the minimum purchase of an appetizer. For additional information or to make dinner reservations please call the restaurant at (203) 734-2462.

I am happy to support my Derby colleague Rep. Klarides-Ditria's pet food drive on Sunday, January 28. Please stop by the Seymour Stop & Shop as volunteers collect much-needed food and pet supplies to benefit Coco’s Animal Rescue Efforts of Seymour!Every donation is welcome, but organizers could specifically use:
  • Purina ONE Kitten dry
  • Purina ONE Kitten wet
  • Iams sensitive stomach and skin adult dry
  • Purina ONE adult wet PATE only
  • Fancy Feast adult wet PATE any flavor
Derby Community Calendar
 
Upcoming Events in Hamden
Take a look and click on the flier below to learn more about the upcoming events. Make sure to check out the button at the bottom of this section to learn about other events.
Come out and visit displays from the area's finest wedding professionals, register for prizes and give-a-ways, and find everything you need for your wedding. The event will take place from 1:00 P.M. - 5:00 P.M. at Whitneyville Cultural Commons. CLICK HERE for more information and tickets.
Make sure to check out Dr. Hanan Hameen as part of the Saturday Family Entertainment Series. The Africa Is Me - Black Dance Experience will take place from 1:00 P.M. - 2:00 P.M. at Thornton Wilder Hall in the Miller Cultural Complex on Dixwell Avenue. 

Tickets are available at the door only, 3 for adults, $2 for children, cash only.

More Hamden Events
 
Orange Events Calendar
Check out the flier(s) and community calendar in Orange below.
The Tories, Spies, and Traitors: Divided Loyalty in Revolutionary Connecticut event will take place Friday, January 25 at 7:00 P.M. at Case Memorial Library.

Organizers will take you back in time and reveal stories, some well-known and some obscure, of Nutmeggers who risked and sacrificed to support either the rebellion or loyalists. CLICK HERE to register. 

Orange Community Calendar
 
Upcoming Events in Woodbridge
Check out the events below and click the button under that to access the Woodbridge community calendar.
CLICK HERE to register for this event at Woodbridge Town Library.
Woodbridge Community Calendar