Anne Hughes

I was proud to attend and present a citation from the Connecticut General Assembly to StudentCam winners Ari Frimmer and Ryan Patrick. Their film, “Independence Under Bright Lights,” earned an Honorable Mention and a $250 prize for its thoughtful exploration of how the Declaration of Independence continues to resonate in contemporary theater.

Through interviews with their fathers — both of whom work in theater and champion young thespians’ self-expression — the students created a powerful tribute to free speech. Their work reflects the enduring legacy of the Declaration of Independence and celebrates the spirit of freedom and independence that has defined our nation for 250 years.

The state is making $15 million available through the national settlement of the Volkswagen emissions scandal to support clean air projects across Connecticut. Eligible projects must reduce nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions, key contributors to smog, and help advance the state’s efforts to combat air pollution.

Older diesel engines are a major source of nitrogen oxide, which is linked to asthma, lung damage, and other serious health conditions, with children particularly at risk. Funding will prioritize projects that replace, repower, or retrofit aging diesel-powered vehicles and non-road equipment, significantly reducing harmful emissions.

Organizations interested in applying for grants can learn more through the Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP). DEEP will also host an informational webinar on Tuesday, April 21, at 1 p.m. to review the application process and provide guidance. Proposals must be submitted by 5 p.m. on June 11. Click here to register for the webinar.

Click here for more information on the VW settlement.

As many Connecticut families begin their spring cleaning, it’s also a great time to safely clear out unused or expired medications from your home. Proper disposal helps prevent misuse and protects our communities and environment.

National Prescription Drug Take Back Day is coming up on Saturday, April 25, offering a convenient way to drop off old medications at local collection sites across the state.

If you’re unable to participate that day, there are safe, year-round options available.

The MyOldMeds locator tool connects residents to more than 200 secure medication disposal sites throughout Connecticut. By simply entering your ZIP code, you can quickly find a nearby drop-off location, along with helpful guidance on safe medication storage and disposal practices.

I encourage you to take advantage of these free resources and help spread the word to friends and neighbors. Together, we can keep our homes safe and our communities healthy.

If you have any questions or need assistance finding a location, please don’t hesitate to reach out.

As part of the nation's 250th anniversary celebration, on Thursday, April 30 at 7 p.m., the Easton Cemetery Committee will host a presentation titled “Creative Survival: African Heritage Enslavement & Freedom in Early New England” at Helen Keller Middle School in Easton.

The featured speaker, Keith Stokes, currently serves as Rhode Island’s Historian Laureate and brings a wealth of experience in history, preservation, and public service. 

This event offers an opportunity to reflect on our region’s history and engage in an important conversation about our shared past. A $15 suggested donation is requested, and the venue is fully wheelchair accessible.