I hope this email finds you well. Below, you'll find updates on district resources and news.
Please feel free to reach out to my office if you have any questions or concerns and be sure to follow my social media accounts for updates on a variety of topics including resources, events, housing updates, and more.
The topics covered in this e-newsletter are as follows:
State Update
Community Resources
This Week In Connecticut History
Manchester Community Events and Information
East Hartford Community Events and Information
State Update
Primary Election Early Voting starts Monday, Aug. 3, and continues through Sunday, Aug. 9. Make your plan now! Find your Early Voting location and hours, and see who's on your ballot at MyVote.CT.gov - your source for trusted election information.
Early voting for the Democratic Primary will be taking place in East Hartford as follows:
WHEN: August 3, 5, 7, 8 and 9 at 10 a.m. – 6 p.m; Tuesday, August 4 and Thursday, August 6, 8:00 a.m.-8:00 p.m.
WHERE: East Hartford Town Council Chambers, 740 Main Street.
Reminder: During the Early Voting period, all voters cast their ballot at the Early Voting location (Town Council Chambers), regardless of their regular polling place.
· Who can vote in the Democratic Primary? Only registered Democrats may vote in the Democratic Primary.
· If you are not registered to vote in East Hartford, but want to vote during the Early Voting period, you may register in person every day of Early Voting at the Registrar of Voters Office or at the Town Clerk's Office (both located at East Hartford Town Hall (740 Main Street). We do not recommend you register via the app the same day you plan to vote early, unless you have direct access to a printer.
· During early voting, the Town of East Hartford will be offering ADA accessible curbside voting. Should you need to take advantage of this resource, please pull into the designated and marked handicap spot at Town Hall and call (860) 291-7280.
The Democratic Primary Election will take place August 11, 6:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m. All polling locations will be open on Election Day. For a list of polling locations visit - East Hartford Polling Places.
ABSENTEE VOTING:
Looking to vote by absentee ballot? Voters no longer need to provide a specific reason to request an absentee ballot for any primary or election. Absentee ballots become available Tuesday, July 21.
2. Call the East Hartford Town Clerk's Office at (860) 291- 7230
3. Visit the East Hartford Town Clerk's Office at 740 Main Street. Individuals who request absentee ballot in person at the Town Clerk's Office will be eligible to vote the same day, starting July 21 and through August 10.
Deadline to request an absentee ballot: August 10, 2026
Early voting for the Democratic Primary will be taking place in Manchester as follows:
WHEN: August 3, 5, 7, 8 and 9 at 10 a.m. – 6 p.m; Tuesday, August 4 and Thursday, August 6, 8:00 a.m.-8:00 p.m.
WHERE: Whiton Branch Library, 100 North Main Street (rear entrance).
Reminder: During the Early Voting period, all voters cast their ballot at the Early Voting location (Whiton Branch Library), regardless of their regular polling place.
Today in 1900, one of the first electrically powered trolley lines in the United States began service on the three-mile run between Branford and East Haven. It was a relatively short trip that launched major and permanent changes in Connecticut’s urban settlement patterns and lifestyles.
The inaugural run of the Branford Electric Railway was immediately hailed as a more efficient and sanitary way of transporting people along the Connecticut shoreline than the horse-drawn streetcars then the most dominant form of public transportation. With more easily accessible (not to mention less malodorous) transportation options available, former city-dwellers almost instantly began flocking to newly established suburban neighborhoods. There, families could escape the noise and crowds of city life, while still being able to commute to their urban places of employment.
ConnCo car no. 1425, one of the many original trolley cars preserved, owned, and still operated by the Shore Line Trolley Museum.
The Branford Electric Railway operated along the Connecticut shore for 47 years until newer suburban trends — the advent of the family car, the construction of auto parkways, and the extension of suburban neighborhoods beyond the reach of the trolley line — led to service being officially discontinued in 1947. However, the Branford Electric Railway Association, founded in 1945 and operating today as the Shore Line Trolley Museum, had enough foresight to immediately purchase a section of track and assume operation of the trolley service (albeit on an extremely reduced basis) as soon as the Railway company relinquished it. Their forward-thinking actions ensured that there has never been an official interruption of service on the Branford Electric Railway (with the exception of a Covid 19 related closure), making it the oldest continuously operating trolley line in America. In 1983, the Museum successfully petitioned to have its line of historic track included on the National Register of Historic Places. Today, visitors to the Shore Line Trolley Museum, located in East Haven, can ride the rails on one of the historic trolleys used during the original run of the Branford Electric Railway.
CRUISIN' ON MAIN STREET IS BACK FOR ITS 25TH YEAR!
The Manchester Cruisin’ Committee, in partnership with the Town of Manchester, is excited to announce that this year's annual Cruisin' on Main Car Show will be held on Sunday, August 2nd, 2026, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. (rain dates: August 9th & August 16th - depending on weather).
Larry Ash, who leads the Cruisin' Committee, along with the dedicated committee members and Calvin Harris, Senior Recreation Supervisor, have been organizing and finalizing plans for another successful event.
The success of the show is always due in part by its sponsors and their charitable donations. Mark your calendar for August 2nd and attend one of the largest one-day car shows in all of New England. Whether you are showing a car or just attending to check out the cars, listen to great music, and/or enjoying a meal downtown, you can’t miss this great annual event.
Cost for the event is free to spectators and a $10 car show registration fee for those wishing to showcase their car. Sponsor’s Choice Trophies will be awarded, and dash plaques will be given to the first 700 cars.
East Hartford is proud to announce its participation in the annual National Night Out event!
WHERE: Alumni Park (East Hartford Town Green) at 1047 Main Street
WHEN: Tuesday, August 4, 2026, from 5:00-8:00 P.M.
This nationwide initiative aims to strengthen community bonds, enhance neighborhood unity, and promote positive interactions between law enforcement agencies and residents.
"National Night Out gives our residents a chance to connect with each other and with the officers who serve them," said Mayor Connor Martin. "Events like this build the kind of trust that makes East Hartford stronger."
National Night Out is an evening, dedicated to community spirit and building strong relationships between local law enforcement and the communities they serve. By joining forces against crime, East Hartford residents demonstrate their commitment to creating a safer, more secure environment for all.
This year's event will feature a wide range of activities for participants of all ages, including a full display of specialized police equipment and units.
Highlights of East Hartford's National Night Out include:
1. SWAT Team Display: Residents can view SWAT equipment and vehicles and speak with team members about their role in the department.
2. K-9 Demonstrations: East Hartford Police K-9 units will conduct live demonstrations.
3. Motorcycle and Marine Units: The department's motorcycle unit and marine unit will be on site with their equipment.
4. Children's Activities: Face painting and other kid-friendly activities will be available throughout the evening.
5. Food: Hot dogs and hamburgers will be served to attendees.
6. Safety Demonstrations and Informational Sessions: Officers and local partner organizations will offer information on crime prevention, emergency preparedness, and neighborhood watch programs.
7. Meet-and-Greet with Law Enforcement: Residents will have the opportunity to meet and interact with officers in a relaxed, informal setting.
"This is one of our favorite nights of the year" Chief Mack Hawkins said. "It's a chance for our officers to meet neighbors outside of a call for service, and for families to get an up-close look at the equipment and units that protect our community."
All residents are welcome and encouraged to attend.
The Town of East Hartford invites community artists of all ages and experience levels to submit artwork for a community banner project celebrating East Hartford.
Selected designs will be reproduced (printed) on light pole banners along the Town Green corridor creating a vibrant visual connection throughout the community. There will be a public unveiling during our annual Fall Fest!
Eligibility
Open to East Hartford residents of all ages
Welcoming artists of all skill levels
Parent/Guardian consent required for artists under 18
Original work only (no AI-generated content)
Themes Artists are encouraged (but not required) to submit work inspired by one or more of the following themes:
The Connecticut River
Aviation and innovation (Aviation)
Ethnic and cultural heritage (Ethnic Heritage)
Education
Submissions should reflect the creativity, diversity, and spirit of East Hartford.
Design Considerations
Bold, visually clear designs that read well from a distance
Avoid fine details that may be lost when enlarged
Public Suitability Must be family-friendly and appropriate for public display. The Town of East Hartford reserves the right to remove from the contest any submitted image that depicts illegal, unsafe, patently offensive, or otherwise inappropriate content, that is deemed contrary to the goals and intent of this contest.
Age Categories
Under 1818-34
35-54
55+
Artwork Requirements
· Artwork must be suitable for a vertical banner format. Please keep in mind that the final banners will be 24” wide by 48” high, with artwork space 24” wide x 30.75” high.
· Artwork must be submitted in image format (jpg, png, tif, etc.) with a high enough resolution that it can be fairly assessed by our judges.
· Please name the image using the following pattern: Artist Name_Title of Artwork.
Note: Assistance with uploading artwork will be available during scheduled upload days at the East Hartford Public Library (Raymond Library, 840 Main Street). See IMPORTANT DATES section for more information
Submission Guidelines Artists may submit 1 (one) entry. Submission should include:
Artist Name
Contact number
Contact email
Age Category
Title of Artwork
Related Theme (s)
Medium/Materials
Brief description (optional)
Image file (jpg, png, tif, etc.)
Please name the image using the following pattern: Artist Name_Title of Artwork
Selection Process A committee representing a range of ages, backgrounds, and interest or expertise in art, will select artwork based on:
Relevance/alignment to East Hartford identity and project theme(s)
Creativity and originality
Suitability for banner reproduction
Visual Impact & legibility
*All submitted photos may be used on our websites as well as in other Town or media placements.
Prizes Selected artwork from each age group will be displayed on banners at the Town green. Of those selections, the top 3 across all age categories will receive a cash award.
1st - $100.00
2nd - $75.00
3rd - $50.00
Installation & Community Event Selected artwork will be printed on banners and installed on light poles around the Town Green. Unveiling event will be held at the Town Green during our annual Fall Fest (Saturday, October 3rd).
Important Dates
Submission Deadline: August 14, 2026 at 11:59 P.M.
Support will be available at East Hartford Public Library (Raymond Library, 840 Main Street) on the following days:
Aug 12 (2pm-6pm) & Aug 13 (3pm-6pm)
Support will be available at the East Hartford Senior Center (15 Milbrook Drive) on:
Aug 13 (10am-12pm)
Judging and Selection: August 15th - Aug 22, 2026
Winners Contacted and Public Announcement: Aug 24th – 28th, 2026
Banner Production: Aug 24th – September 20th
Installation: September 21st – October 2nd
Unveiling Event (East Hartford Fall Fest): October 3rd, 2026
Good lighting is essential when photographing your artwork. Whenever possible, use natural daylight by placing your artwork near an open window or doorway. Avoid using your phone or camera’s flash, as it can create glare and distort colors. With adequate natural light, flash should not be necessary. To minimize shadows, position yourself so you are not standing between the light source and the artwork.
Perspective
To accurately capture your artwork, make sure your camera is positioned parallel to the piece. If the artwork is lying flat, photograph it directly from above rather than at an angle. Keeping both the artwork and camera level will help prevent distortion and ensure the image appears straight and proportional.
Background
Keep the focus on the artwork by minimizing distractions in the background. Frame the image so that only the artwork is visible whenever possible. If needed, use your phone’s editing tools or another photo-editing program to crop out any unnecessary background elements.
This project made possible with support from Connecticut Main Street Center
East Hartford Farmers Market
The 2026 East Hartford Farmers' Market will occur every Tuesday (except August 4, 2026) through October 27, 2026 from 12:00 PM - 2:30 PM at the Town Green (1047 Main Street)!
Our farmers, Killam & Bassette Farmstead and Handel Family Farm, are authorized to accept SNAP, Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program, and WIC Farmers Market Nutrition Program vouchers.
We are Accepting Applications for Market Vendors!
Our market is interested in adding more vendors to serve the community. The application can be completed online or vendors can fill out a paper copy to hand in or mail to the Health Department (740 Main St.). Market organizers will review completed applications and notify vendors whether your application is accepted. Vendors are advised to review the East Hartford market guidelines. Click the links below for the application and further information:
If you receive SNAP benefits, bring your EBT card to the table with the sign that says "SNAP/EBT accepted here" at participating farmers' markets and farm stands. The Market Master will swipe your card for the amount that you want and give you Market Tokens that can be used at all the stands at that market. Residents enrolled in SNAP will be able to double their benefits to purchase fresh produce through the End Hunger CT! SNAP Match program.
WIC FARMERS' MARKET NUTRITION PROGRAM (FMNP):
WIC clients will be receiving an email inviting you to setup your farmers' market benefits account in the SoliMarket system. This app can be downloaded to your smartphone and will be used to access your farmers' market benefits for fresh produce purchases. WIC FMNP benefits can be used to purchase fruits, vegetables, and fresh herbs. The benefit amount for 2026 is $65 per eligible family member who was active as of 4/28/26. If you have questions about your WIC FMNP benefits, or your eligibility for this program, residents can contact the WIC office at (860) 291-7190.
SoliMarket for WIC FMNP:
If you have questions, the Soli HelpLine is also a resource for farmers and WIC and Senior participants. You can call the HelpLine, available daily 9am – 9pm through November 30 at 214-256-3083 with questions regarding:
1. Problems processing transactions
2. Questions regarding payments
3. Questions regarding reporting
4. Problems receiving emails when attempting to finish setting up their account
5. PIN number issues
Participants should call the WIC local office or Senior distribution site:
To ask about program eligibility and eligibility for FMNP benefits
To schedule WIC appointments with their local agency
Understand when they will receive their FMNP or other benefits
To find out when benefits will be received (app or card)
Adding new participants and/or family members
SENIOR FARMERS' MARKET NUTRITION PROGRAM (SFMNP):
The SFMNP is an electronic benefit card (EBT). This is a supplemental food program, in which eligible participants receive an EBT card annually to purchase eligible products at authorized farmers' markets throughout Connecticut. SFMNP benefits can be used to purchase fruits, vegetables, honey, and fresh herbs. For 2026, eligible recipients will receive $40.00 on their SFMNP EBT card.
Eligible if:
You are 60 years of age or older and have a maximum household income not more than the 185% of the annual poverty income guidelines. See the income eligibility guidelines here.
If you are a disabled individual under the age of 60, you must live in a housing facility where congregate nutrition services are provided, and have a maximum household income not more than the 185% of the annual poverty income guidelines
EAST HARTFORD SENIOR SERVICES FARMERS' MARKET VOUCHER:
East Hartford seniors that apply and meet eligibility requirements for the East Hartford Senior Services Farmers’ Market Voucher Program will receive a one-time $40 voucher to purchase fruits, vegetables, eggs, jams, and herbs. The voucher program is open to residents who meet these criteria: 55 and older who meet these criteria:
must be 55 years old or older
must be a resident of East Hartford (individuals or families), with proof of residency via a utility bill
must have an income at or below 250% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines (see below), with proof of income provided
This voucher can only be used at the East Hartford Farmers’ Market. Residents who wish to apply may contact East Hartford Senior Services by calling 860-291-7491 or visiting the East Hartford Senior Center at 15 Milbrook Drive. Residents may also call Youth & Social Services at 860-291-7248 or visit the YSS office located at 50 Chapman Place.
BECOME AN EH FARMERS' MARKET PARTNER!
The East Hartford Farmers’ Market is asking for residents and organizations to help fight hunger and food insecurity experienced by residents of our community. As a 2024 East Hartford Market Partner, your donation will help residents that rely on food pantry assistance to buy fresh produce at our market. Available funds will also be used to provide additional support for SNAP, WIC and senior market nutrition program recipients.
Sponsors will be recognized at the market and through the Town's communication channels. Show your shared commitment to health programs that support East Hartford quality of life. Donations are tax deductible to the extent permitted by law.
How to make your donation to become an EH Farmers' Market Partner:
2. Cash donation dropped off to the East Hartford Youth & Social Services Division located at 50 Chapman Place.
3. Check donation dropped off or mailed to the Town of East Hartford, Youth & Social Services Division, 50 Chapman Place, East Hartford, CT 06108. Please make the check payable to "Town of East Hartford Youth & Social Services Division" with "Farmers' Market" noted in the bottom left.
Pools Open for the 2026 Season
Summer is Here and the East Hartford Pools Are Open!
Admission is free for East Hartford residents, with proof of residency required for all adults and children ages 7 and up. Acceptable forms of ID include CT Driver’s License, a state issued ID card, 2025-2026 East Hartford Public Schools ID, or a Parks and Recreation ID card, which is available for children ages 7-15 at the Parks and Recreation office located at 50 Chapman Place. The fee for an ID card is $10.00 and it is valid for three years. Anyone age 7 and older who does not have proof of residency will be charged the non-resident daily rate, which is $15.00 per person.
We offer a variety of programming at the pools, including group, semi-private and private swim lessons, adult lap swim, senior swim, Aqua Zumba® and more. Please see our Summer Program Guide for more information on our swim lessons and programs. Registration is accepted online for most programs at www.ehparks.org. Birthday parties are available at Goldstar and Lord pools on Saturdays throughout the summer, and may be reserved online at www.ehparks.org.
Important to note for Summer 2026, the pool at Martin Park will not be operating this year. After extensive evaluation, the Town has determined that the facility cannot safely operate. The pool’s aging infrastructure requires repairs that are more extensive than routine maintenance and cannot be completed in time for summer operations.
For generations, Martin Park pool (built in 1938) has been a cornerstone of the neighborhood and a place where children, families, and neighbors gather throughout the summer. We understand that its closure creates real challenges, particularly for families who rely on it as an affordable and accessible place to stay active, stay cool, and connect with their community.
While this decision was not made lightly, safety must remain our top priority. At the same time, we are committed to working with residents and community partners to identity alternatives for this summer and to evaluation long-term options for the future of the facility.
The Parks and Recreation team are actively exploring aquatics solutions for the neighborhood and wider community, and will provide updates as they become available.
Drennan Pool will offer extended hours on Saturday and Sunday for the 2026 Season: 11:00 A.M. - 5:00 P.M. with additional evening public swim hours during the week of August 10–14, 2026 (Monday–Friday) extended to 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM.
A number of events and activities are planned for the summer, including two splash parties scheduled for July 11 and August 1 at Goldstar Pool, and Lord Pool, respectively. Information regarding events and activities can be found at easthartfordt.gov/parks-recreation.
Each spring and fall, the MDC conducts a regional household hazardous waste collection program at a series of local sites in member and non-member towns. The program offers a number of benefits to residents and municipalities:
Residents have the opportunity to participate in a collection day in their respective towns as well as in other collections throughout the year.
Participating municipalities enjoy financial savings from the effect of pooling under a single contract the services of a licensed hazardous waste management firm.
The contractor assumes full responsibility for the collection, transportation and proper disposal of hazardous waste items.
Hazardous waste cannot be simply thrown out with the trash, flushed, or poured down the drain because it passes the problem along to the environment, polluting the air and the water. So the MDC sponsors a HazWaste Program to collect the waste and dispose of it through safe, environmentally responsible practices.
The MDC urges you to participate in a Household Hazardous Waste Collection in your town. Protect the health of your kids, your spouse, your pets, and the environment. You may participate in MDC’s household hazardous waste collection program if you are a member of any participating town; and you may participate on any MDC sponsored collection day.
Residents of any of the following participating towns can participate in ANY MDC sponsored collection day: Bloomfield, East Granby, East Hartford, Hartford, Newington, Rocky Hill, West Hartford, Wethersfield, Windsor and Windsor Locks.
HOUSEHOLD HAZWASTE INFORMATION PACKET
The Household HazWaste Info Packet contains the complete schedule of MDC sponsored HHW collections for the current calendar year. The Info Packet also summarizes items accepted by the program and items the MDC cannot accept. If an item cannot be accepted at an MDC sponsored collection potential alternative disposal locations are listed. The Info Packet also provides some general information on how to reduce the amount of household hazardous waste you generate.
All collections are held on Saturdays from 8AM to 1PM unless noted.
Date Town Location
September 12 Bloomfield Public Works Building, 21 Southwood Drive September 19 Rocky Hill Elm Ridge Park, 376 Elm Street September 26 West Hartford Public Works Garage, 17 Brixton Street October 17 Windsor Locks/East Granby Public Works Garage, 6 Stanton Road, Windsor Locks October 24 Hartford MDC Operations Facility, 125 Maxim Road
(WPCF = Water Pollution Control Facility) * One collection date is held on a Sunday
Community Grants Available from the East Hartford Commission on Culture and Fine Arts
Bring your artistic vision to life in East Hartford!
The East Hartford Commission on Culture and Fine Arts (CCFA) seeks applicants for their community grants program, newly expanded with funding from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA).
All interested applicants should start by filling out a basic online application; eligible entities will next be invited to fill out a second-round application specific to ARPA funding.
Grant applications will be considered on a rolling basis through August 31, 2026, after which the CCFA will revert to their typical quarterly review cycle.
Successful proposals will have a strong East Hartford connection and directly relate to fine arts and/or culture. Programs or projects may include concerts, performances, program series, festivals, workshops, exhibits, readings, after-school programs, or public art.
For complete eligibility requirements and to access the application, visit the CCFA web page.
Administrative support for the CCFA community grants is provided by the East Hartford Public Library. Funding decisions will be made by the CCFA at their regularly scheduled public meetings, typically held the second Thursday of the month in Meeting Room 1 on the lower level of the Raymond Library.
My office is always open if you or your family are in need of assistance. Please do not hesitate to contact me by email atJason.Rojas@cga.ct.govor by phone at 860-240-8541.
