Juan R. Candelaria

I hope you had a wonderful Fourth of July celebrating our country's founding with your friends and family.

With all of the division we see in our country these days, it's important to reflect on the ideals our democracy was founded on: freedom, liberty, and justice for all.

Upholding those ideals is easier said than done, but as the saying goes, democracy is not a spectator sport. It is our job as American citizens to work every day to realize these values and create a country that accepts all without discrimination.

CTDOT offers the following tips for safe summer travel:

• Watch for Work Zones: Summer is peak construction season. Please slow down and be cautious in work zones to keep workers and other drivers safe. Visit CTroads.org for real-time traffic updates and to sign up for alerts.
• Stay Hydrated and Rested: Long drives can be taxing. Ensure you are well-rested and stay hydrated to maintain focus and avoid fatigue.
• Check Your Vehicle: Before hitting the road, inspect your vehicle’s tires, brakes, fluids, and air conditioning system. Proper maintenance can prevent breakdowns and crashes.
• Plan Your Route: Use navigation tools to plan your route in advance. Check for road work, detours, and traffic updates to avoid unexpected delays.
• Follow Speed Limits: Adhere to posted speed limits and drive according to road conditions. Summer often brings more pedestrians, cyclists, and motorcyclists.
• Avoid Distractions: Stay focused on the road. Avoid using phones, eating, or engaging in activities that divert your attention from driving. Designate a passenger to handle navigation and communication tasks if necessary.
• Use Seat Belts: Ensure all passengers are wearing seat belts at all times, it is the law in the front seat and back seat to wear your seat belt.
• Stay Informed About Weather Conditions: Summer storms can lead to hazardous driving conditions. Stay informed about weather forecasts and adjust your travel plans accordingly.
• Stock Your Vehicle: Even a well-maintained vehicle can break down, so it is advisable to put together an emergency roadside kit to carry with you. This should include a cell phone and charger, so you can call for help when and where you need it, as well as other helpful items such as a first aid kit, a flashlight, jumper cables, and basic repair tools.
• Don’t Drive Drunk or High: If you have used an impairing substance such as alcohol or drugs, do not drive. If you are planning to drink or partake, arrange for a sober ride. Passengers should never ride with an impaired driver.

For additional safety tips, visit nhtsa.gov.

The Connecticut State Department of Education is pleased to announce the third annual PK-12 School Staff Appreciation Digital Backpack Program, which runs through August.
 
As in prior years, this program will provide special discounts to all PK-12 public and private school staff, including Adult Education program staff, over the summer months. This year, school staff from across the state can take advantage of discounts at sporting events – from the New York Yankees and Boston Red Sox to Hartford Athletic and Hartford Yard Goats, museums, breweries, and much more! To view a complete list of participating businesses and how to access each discount, please refer to portal.ct.gov/digitalbackpack.
 
Eligible public and private school staff include bus drivers, paraeducators, administrators, school nurses, teachers, school nutrition staff, school counselors, school psychologists, custodians, and everyone who plays a part in the school ecosystem.
 
Businesses still interested in offering discounts through this program may sign up at portal.ct.gov/digitalbackpack until July 31.