Celebrating the Fourth of July, Hawk Rescue, and EBT Card Scam

June 28, 2024


July 4th is just around the corner, and that means it's time to fire up the grills, hit the beach, or watch some amazing fireworks. I'll let you know how the 114th district is celebrating our independence at a series of special events. 

Seniors will have more access to resources and assistance after the governor signed a new bill into law. Please read below to see how that legislation will allow our elderly population to age with dignity.

The state is warning those with EBT cards not to get scammed after a spike in thefts. I'll break down how you can avoid becoming a victim.

Here are the sections in this week's email:

  • Celebrating Independence Day!
  • Support For Our Seniors
  • EBT Skimming Scam
  • Providing Feedback on Walking & Bike Trails
  • Amazing Hawk Rescue
  • Derby Events Calendar
  • Upcoming Events in Hamden
  • Orange Events Calendar
  • Upcoming Events in Woodbridge
 
Celebrating Independence Day! 
We're only a few days from the Fourth of July! It's a time to express our American pride, reflect on our history, and celebrate our freedoms and cultural heritage. Several of our communities in the 114th district are hosting some awesome events to commemorate the signing of the Declaration of Independence.
The Town of Orange is hosting an Independence Day concert and fireworks show on Friday, July 5 with a rain date on Sunday, July 7. The festivities will begin at 3:00 P.M. at the Orange Fairgrounds. The concert is scheduled to start at 6:30 P.M.

Best Shot featuring Melissa Lotardo, a tribute artist to Pat Benatar, is the headliner. Food trucks will also be on site. Parking is free.

Take a look at the fliers below for more information about the Fourth of July events in Hamden and Derby.

 
Support For Our Seniors
Governor Ned Lamont signed a House Democrats priority bill into law supporting our seniors. House Bill 5001 allows residents to grow old with grace and dignity.

This bill: 

  • Makes it easier for seniors to age in place
  • Creates a nursing home database, providing consumers with an easy and reliable way to compare locations around the state
  • Establishes incentives to encourage nursing homes to improve care

I am glad to support this bill, which I co-sponsored, that gives seniors the attention and resources that they deserve.

 
EBT Skimming Scam
The state is warning you to be aware of an Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) skimming scam. It is a technology-driven crime committed, at times, by organized rings in which the criminals steal EBT card information. The criminals install electronic devices on ATMs or store point-of-sale terminals to capture card information, which is commonly referred to as skimming.
 
Connecticut, through the Department of Social Services, was one of the first states in the nation to implement a replacement benefit plan, having done so in June 2023.

Here are some tips for recipients to keep your benefits safe:

 
Providing Feedback on Walking & Bike Trails
You have an opportunity to share your experiences and challenges of walking or cycling in Derby. The Naugatuck Valley Council of Governments is seeking your feedback, which could affect the future of our pedestrian and bicycle trails.

The organization invites you to take a survey which will examine habits, preferences, and challenges to walking, roller blading, and cycling in Derby. Your responses may contribute to a better understanding of active transportation patterns, which may inform initiatives to promote healthier and more sustainable transportation options.

Click Here to Take Five Minute Survey
 
Amazing Hawk Rescue
Thank you to Woodbridge Animal Control Officer Jessica Moffo who rescued a red shouldered hawk from the netting of a soccer goal. She used a bench and step ladder to go up 15 feet to cut the male bird free while his mate was dive bombing at the officer.
The red shouldered hawk is dehydrated, sore, and has some abrasions, but he is not broken. We all hope the bird make a full recovery, returns to his mate, and helps takes care of their offspring.
Please make sure to lay your soccer nets on the ground when you are not using them. They contain black string and are easy for our wildlife to misjudge and misunderstand as they navigate anywhere near it.
 
Derby Events Calendar
Check out the events below, and click the button at the bottom of this section to access the community calendar.
Derby Community Calendar
 
Upcoming Events in Hamden
Take a look at the fliers below to learn more about upcoming events. Make sure to click on the button at the bottom of this section.
More Hamden Events
 
Orange Events Calendar
Check out the flier and community calendar in Orange below.
Adults and teens entering grades 7-12 have an opportunity to get creative! Case Memorial Library is inviting you to create your own monoprint on cyanotype fabric with a take-home craft kit from Monday, June 24 - Saturday, June 29.

Cyanotype is an antique photographic process distinctive for producing Prussian blue monochromatic prints. Instructions and most supplies will be provided. You must provide objects to print and water. CLICK HERE to register.

Orange Community Calendar
 
Upcoming Events in Woodbridge
Check out the events below, and access the Woodbridge community calendar by clicking on the button at the bottom.
Take advantage of the free intermediate coding workshop at Woodbridge Town Library on Saturday, June 29 at 10 A.M.
Woodbridge Community Calendar