I hope this message finds you and your family well.
Due to an anticipated stretch of high temperatures, the state is activating its Extreme Hot Weather Protocol, effective at noon on Monday, August 11. The protocol will remain in effect through at least 8 p.m. on Thursday, August 14. Cooling centers will be available throughout the state. Anyone in need of a place to get out of the heat can locate their nearest cooling center by calling 2-1-1 or viewing the list that will be published online at211ct.org.
National Connecticut Day
This Sunday, August 10th, is National Connecticut Day, which recognizes the contributions of the fifth state to join the United States of America on January 9, 1788. Our great state has a rich history that can be explored in Bridgeport and surrounding cities and towns.
You can delve into Connecticut's vibrantcultural sceneand plan your next adventure through the official state tourism website: CTvisit.com.
Purple Heart Day
Every year on August 7th, we honor and remember those who have been wounded or killed in action while serving in the U.S. military. The Purple Heart medal is presented to service members who have been wounded or killed as a result of enemy action while serving in the US military.
The Purple Heart is more than a medal. It’s a symbol of sacrifice, resilience, and unshakable courage. Today and every day, we remember and honor those who gave so much in service to our nation. 💜🏅
Merritt Parkway Exit Renumbering Project
The CT Department of Transportation has started the Exit Renumbering Project along the Merritt Parkway (Route 15) from the New York state border to the Wilbur Cross Parkway. This project is a part of the Exit Renumbering Project across the state to change to a mile-based system in accordance with federal standards. This means exits will now correspond with the mileage from the New York state line. A mile-based system is more driver friendly and is more accurate for emergency response.
The CTDOT has put together an interactive map for this project that shows the highways impacted and the old and new exit numbers. Click here to view
WBDC August Grant Applications Now Open
The Women’s Business Development Council (WBDC) announced the next round of its Ignite and Child Care Business Grant Programs.
The Ignite Grant Program is designed to help women-owned businesses grow. The program offers grants of up to $10,000 to women-owned businesses in the state of Connecticut who have been in business for two or more years and have revenues between $25K and $2 million. The application period for this grant runs from August 5th through September 16th, 2025. You can find additional information on Ignite here. Their Child Care Business Opportunity Fund, offered in partnership with the Connecticut Office of Early Childhood (OEC), provides grants of up to $25,000to qualified licensed and aspiring child care businesses. The program offers grants targeting different stages of business, from start-ups to those ready to expand. The application period for Child Care Business grants runs from August 1st through August 31st, 2025. You can find more information on our Child Care Business Opportunity Fund grants here. Information sessions for both grant programs are scheduled throughout the application periods. These sessions will help applicants understand the grant requirements and provide an opportunity for those interested to ask questions about the grants. Interested applicants can register for a live information session here.
As always, please feel free to contact me at 800-842-8267 or by email at Andre.Baker@cga.ct.gov. And for news and legislative updates, please visit my official Facebook page.