Supporting Our Students and Teachers

March 14, 2025


 
 

I remain committed to supporting our students and teachers amidst federal funding concerns. Please read below to learn how I am backing our wonderful boards of education across Connecticut.
 
This St. Patrick's Day weekend, don't press your luck -- drive sober or don't drive at all. I'll provide a number of safety tips to ensure your celebration does not put lives at risk.

Police are sounding the alarm on a new and terrifying phone scam. I'll break down how it works and what you can do to avoid becoming a victim.

Here are the sections in this week's email:

  • Supporting Our Students and Teachers
  • Driver Sober This St. Patrick’s Day
  • Beware of Phone Scam
  • Crews Battle Brush Fire
  • New Emergency SUV in Orange
  • Amity Hockey Champs!
  • Derby Events Calendar
  • Upcoming Events in Hamden
  • Orange Events Calendar
  • Upcoming Events in Woodbridge
 

Supporting Our Students and Teachers

I stood in solidary with education advocates to show our shared commitment to ensuring that every student has access to a high-quality education and that our teachers receive the resources and support they need to thrive in the classroom. A strong education system is the foundation of our future, and we must continue to invest in both our students and teachers.

Leaders from the Connecticut Association of Boards of Education (CABE) visited the Capitol to amplify the voices of local boards of education from across the state and to honor School Board Appreciation Month. CABE plays a vital role in ensuring these voices are heard while providing guidance on policy changes and legislation that could affect our students, schools, and communities.

I would like to thank the thousands of dedicated volunteers serving on boards of education statewide including those in Woodbridge who stopped by the Capitol. Their tireless work and unwavering commitment are essential to maintaining and improving top-notch education our students, and I deeply appreciate their service.
 

Driver Sober This St. Patrick’s Day

Law enforcement is reminding everyone to drive sober as we approach Saint Patrick’s Day. Organizers expect big crowds on Saturday in Milford and Sunday in New Haven, so please make a plan to celebrate responsibly.

The Connecticut Department of Transportation is offering the following safety tips:

  • Designate a sober driver
  • Install ride-sharing apps on your phone
  • Check the bus and train schedule
  • Take the keys away from an impaired friend

Driving under the influence puts your life in danger along with passengers, other drivers, and pedestrians. Enjoy the holiday, and make the responsible decision this St. Patrick's Day.

Click here for more information
 

Beware of Phone Scam

State Police are warning the public of a phone scam where male callers claim to be members of the Connecticut State Police (CSP) or the U.S. Marshal Services.
 
The scammers, who speak with a thick accent, tell the intended victims they are under investigation for money laundering and request personal information. The calls appear to be coming from state police, but they are NOT. Law enforcement will never ask for money or personal information over the phone.

If you receive a call that claims to be from the police or any other government agency, DO NOT provide any personal information. Hang up immediately and verify the call by contacting the organization directly using an official phone number. If the call seems suspicious, report it immediately by calling 911.
 

Crews Battle Brush Fire

I would like to thank the Orange Volunteer Fire Department for extinguishing a brush fire on Monday night on Derby-Milford Road. Crews quickly responded and handled a 200 x 200 foot fire with brush and leaves burning near a home. We are grateful for your quick response and keeping our community safe.
 

New Emergency SUV in Orange

American Medical Response (AMR) delivered a new SUV to respond to emergencies in our community. The new vehicle will ensure that paramedics will carry out reliable and safe service while enhancing the operational readiness of our dedicated responders in Orange. This new SUV will be a significant upgrade from previous vehicles that often required repairs. Thank you to AMR for this delivery!
 

Amity Hockey Champs!

Congratulations to the Amity High School Boys hockey team for winning the Southern Connecticut Conference (SCC) Championship! The Spartans defeated the top two seeds in the state on their way to the title. It's the first time in 15 years that Amity has won the SCC championship.
 

Derby Events Calendar

Check out the events below, and click the button at the bottom of this section to access the community calendar in Derby.

Enjoy a nature walk with the community every Friday from 10:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. in the meadow at Kellogg Environmental Center. Registration is required.

CLICK HERE to buy your tickets for this wonderful event. 
Derby Community Calendar
 

Upcoming Events in Hamden

Take a look at the fliers and other upcoming events below.
Click here to become a teen detective!

The Hamden Department of Fine Arts and Mainstage Ensemble present "Little Women" from Thursday, March 20 - Sunday, March 23 at Hamden High School. The student-led cast and crew have worked incredibly hard on the show!
Buy your tickets now!
More Hamden Events

Orange Events Calendar
 

Check out the events and community calendar in Orange.

The Orange Volunteer Fire Department is celebrating its 100th anniversary with bourbon and tequila tastings, live jazz, gourmet food, and much more. The fundraiser will take place Thursday from 6 p.m. - 9 p.m. at the Orange Cigar Lounge at 311 Boston Post Road. Proceeds will go toward buying life-saving equipment for the fire department. CLICK HERE to register.
 
Orange Community Calendar

Upcoming Events in Woodbridge

Check out the flier and community calendar in Woodbridge below.

Stop by the JCC of Greater New Haven for a photography exhibit showcasing the breathtaking work of three talented local photographers. Their work is located in the Hoos Family Art Gallery at 360 Amity Road until the end of March!
Woodbridge Community Calendar