New Year Brings New State Laws

Dear Neighbors,   As 2017 comes to an end, we prepare for a number of new laws to take effect starting January 1, 2018. These new laws may have an impact on you, your business, or our communities. I therefore encourage you to take a look at the full list of laws that can be found by clicking here. I have listed some of the more noteworthy legislation below. Please feel free to contact me with any questions or clarifications regarding the implementation of these laws. AN ACT PREVENTING PRESCRIPTION OPIOID DIVERSION AND ABUSE - Public Act No. 17-131 - requires prescriptions be transcribed electronically to safeguard against over prescribing, reduces the maximum number of days for a prescription from seven to five for minors and allows patients to request drugs other than opioids be prescribed. Summary   AN ACT CONCERNING THE DEFINITION OF A VETERAN FOR A CERTAIN HONOR AND CERTAIN BENEFIT - Public Act No. 17-83 – broadens the eligibility criteria for certain veterans' benefits, allows additional people to receive a service ribbon and medal, be buried in a Connecticut veterans' cemetery, or have veteran status indicated on their driver's license or identity card. Summary   Please pass this information along to those who may benefit from knowing what to expect in the New Year in the State of Connecticut.   New legislation typically goes into effect on January 1st, July 1st, or October 1st in a calendar year, although a few laws go into effect immediately upon passage.   As always, please do not hesitate to contact me should you have any questions or concerns relating to state government at Nicole.Klarides-Ditria@housegop.ct.gov or at (800) 842-1423.   Sincerely,     State Rep. Nicole Klarides-Ditria

Shelton Mayor Lauretti Donates to The Kennedy Center

Mayor Lauretti of Shelton, right, presented Martin D. Schwartz, President and CEO of The Kennedy Center, left, with a $5,000 check from the Mayor’s Annual Charity Golf Classic.  This sizable donation will be used for the agency’s general operating expenses.
 

SHELTON- Mayor Mark A. Lauretti recently surprised the Kennedy Center with a big donation over the holiday season with proceeds from his annual charity golf tournament.

 

“We want to personally thank Mayor Lauretti and the supporters of his golf tournament for their generous donation to The Kennedy Center,” said Martin D. Schwartz, President and CEO of The Kennedy Center.  “This substantial contribution has been earmarked for general operating expenses, which will benefit the 2,000 people with disabilities we serve throughout the region.”

 

Mayor Lauretti added, “I have been involved with The Kennedy Center for several decades.  This major rehabilitation agency provides people with disabilities many employment and community resources throughout the region, including in Shelton. In fact, several years ago, I hired an outstanding Kennedy Center worker in my office at City Hall.  I am honored to provide this worthwhile organization with a $5,000 donation from the Mayor’s Golf Tournament, so they can continue helping others.”

 

The Kennedy Center, founded in 1951, is an internationally accredited, non-profit, community-based rehabilitation organization that currently serves over 2,000 individuals annually. The agency actively responds to the needs of the community by offering innovative, comprehensive service options to persons with disabilities and special needs, from birth to senior years.

 

The Kennedy Center operates 31 community experience programs, 16 group homes, an industries program composed of six businesses, supported and competitive employment and job placement services, a family support and respite service, travel training, and a variety of children’s programs. 

 

Visit www.thekennedycenterinc.org for more information. 

Ring in the New Year with a Hike!

ANSONIA - Ring in the New Year with an invigorating hike at the Ansonia Nature Center!

The New Year's Day Hike will be held Monday, January 1, 2018 at 10am, 10 Deerfield Lane, Ansonia. Contact a Nature Center representative at (203) 736-1053 to pre-register.

This event is FREE for all ages, children must be accompanied by an adult.

(Information shared from City of Ansonia Facebook page)

Klarides Family Spreads Holiday Cheer around the Valley

State Rep. Themis Klarides (center, playing Santa) recently paid a visit to Griffin Hospital in Derby and area senior centers to spread some holiday cheer. Klarides was accompanied by her helpers, from left, nephew Cade Klarides-Ditria, sister state Rep. Nicole Klarides-Ditria, Spencer Rubin from CT House Republicans and Greg Butler, GOP press person. The Klarides sisters are carrying on a longstanding tradition started by their father, Peter, who visited patients at the holidays.

Hundreds of Coats Collected for Hurricane Victims

ANSONIA- More than 250 coats were donated during the holiday hurricane relief for residents of Puerto Rico. The drive was organized by Assumption Church & School through the assistance of State Senator George Logan, State Represenative Linda Gentile, Pastor John Hinson of First Baptist Church and coat drive leader Martha Carrasquillo of Assumption School.

(Information submitted by Greg Martin/Ansonia City Hall)

Bad Santa Party on Tap!

Local VFW Donates to Veterans Organization

Al Yagovane, far left, Commander of Seymour's VFW Post 12084, recently made a donation to Homes for the Brave, which helps area veterans. Also pictured from right to left: Phillip Modesto, Edward Rivera and Ron Antanucci Manager ACE Hardware, which hosted the fundraiser.