Mike Demicco

A great piece of news for the town! Actually, two great pieces of news. Lt. Gov. Susan Bysiewicz and the Connecticut Department of Economic and Community Development (DECD)'s Office of the Arts designated two Cultural Districts in town -- one in Farmington, the other in Unionville. 

The Avon and Farmington fire departments are holding a fundraiser dinner on Sunday, Feb. 23, for Deputy Chief Dave Theriault, who is currently battling Stage 4 cancer. In addition to being a devoted family man, Theriault has been a dedicated servant to the town of Avon for over 30 years. 

I want to thank the many residents who showed up on a rainy evening to provide input and ask questions at the legislative forum held last Thursday.

I understand there is a lot of uncertainty, anxiety and concern over the recent attempt by the federal government to pause non-defense and Social Security spending, as well as the ramping up of arrests of immigrants in our communities.

We've hit the ground running this legislative session, with work beginning on the four committees to which I've been assigned: Public Health, Human Services, Energy & Technology and Environment.

On Wednesday, I was sworn in to represent the 21st District for my seventh term at the state Capitol. Rest assured, while it was the seventh time, it's never gotten old.

I hope this message finds you happy and healthy during this holiday season. The year may be winding down, but the legislative session is ready to gear up.

Winter and colder temperatures mean rising energy costs, but there are several programs available to residents struggling to afford their heating bills.

Whether it be state assistance, protection from service shutoff, payment plans or energy efficiency improvements, there is a program that can help almost everyone.