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I hope this message finds you and your family well! I am wishing you all a Happy Easter from my family to yours! I hope you all have a day filled with love, laughter, and great company!
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| Valley Community Index Survey |
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The Valley Community Index wants to hear from you! Last chance to take the survey is today, April 18th
The 2025 Valley Community Survey is about life in the Valley—what’s working well and where we can do better as a community. Your input will help shape the 2025 Valley Community Index, a resource used by local organizations, schools, hospitals, and community groups to make meaningful improvements in our region.
If you live in Ansonia, Beacon Falls, Derby, Naugatuck, Oxford, Seymour, or Shelton, we invite you to take the survey. By sharing your thoughts, you’ll help highlight the strengths of our community and identify areas where we can create positive change.
Thank you for taking the time to make a difference! Your voice matters, we want to know what’s important to you. Together, we can build a stronger, more connected Valley.
Please use the link below to take the survey before April 18.
https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/ValleyIndex |
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| Elder Justice Forum Recap |
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Last week, Attorney General Tong and I held an Elder Justice Forum at Derby Senior Center. It was great to meet with so many of our senior residents and hear about issues that are impacting them and answering any questions.
If you were unable to attend, please reach out to my office at anytime with your questions and concerns. |
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| Special Education Committee Public Hearing |
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The Select Committee on Special Education will hold a public hearing on Monday, April 21 at 11am on its priority bills. These bills address shortfalls in the special education system by enhancing oversight, funding, and support for students and teachers.
This public hearing is a great opportunity to get involved, have your voice heard and make a difference in the legislative process!
You can learn more about how to speak, submit written testimony, or watch the public hearing at https://bit.ly/3Y4YsZt. |
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| Real ID Deadline: May 7th |
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The Transportation Security Administration issued an important message recently that will affect anyone who travels on domestic commercial flights.
Beginning on May 7, anyone who wishes to travel on a domestic commercial flight must have a REAL ID or other acceptable form of documentation.
What is a REAL ID?
A REAL ID is a state-issued ID that meets minimum security standards to access federal facilities and board domestic flights. The program was implemented following a 9/11 commission recommendation on making air travel and federal facilities more secure.
How do I get a REAL ID?
- You can visit your local DMV to learn more and apply for a REAL ID, or at the CT information portal here.
- In Connecticut, you'll need:
- a U.S. passport or U.S. birth certificate;
- a Social Security card; and
- two pieces of mail from two different sources dated within 90 days to prove that you live in Connecticut.
- For all new applications for a driver's license, as well as out-of-state transfers to Connecticut licenses, you will automatically be issued a REAL ID.
How do I know if I already have a REAL ID?
- Check your driver's license or ID to see if it has a gold star in the upper right corner, like the accompanying graphic. If you do, then you have a verified REAL ID.
What other forms of ID are acceptable?
- A U.S. passport.
- State-issued Enhanced Driver's Licenses and identification cards are also acceptable, though Connecticut does not issue them.
For more information, visit the following:
Department of Homeland Security website
CT Department of Motor Vehicles website
CT Information Portal website
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| Happening in the Community |
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| The Derby Elks are celebrating their 125th anniversary this week! The Derby Elks are always looking for new members who are dedicated community members join their organization. If you are interested in joining, reach out to the Elks for more information! |
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| The Valley Community Gardens are back for the season! there are several communal gardens around the district open for use. All community members are welcome to use the garden spaces and no experience is required! |
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| This Saturday, Abundance of Joy Learning Center is hosting a FREE Egg Hunt with a special visit from the Easter Bunny from 2-4 pm at The Abundant Life Fellowship Ministries ! |
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| On April 26th, Life, Health, and Wellness Inc is hosting a health fair and will have many resources and services available to those in attendance. Don't miss this great opportunity to connect with health care providers and receive free screenings. |
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Please feel free to contact me with any thoughts or concerns you may have at Kara.Rochelle@cga.ct.gov or 1-800-842-8267. Follow my Facebook page for regular legislative updates.
All my Best,
Kara Rochelle
State Representative
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