Senators Looney, Duff, and Cabrera Release Statements on Quinnipiac University’s Championship
Today, Senate President Pro Tempore Martin Looney (D-New Haven), Senate Majority Leader Bob Duff (D-Norwalk), and Senator Jorge Cabrera (D-Hamden) released statements celebrating Quinnipiac University winning the men’s hockey championship.
“Congrats to Hamden’s own Quinnipiac University on a championship win!” said Sen. Looney. “The team played with tremendous heart, skill, and determination throughout the entire tournament. Third time’s the charm!”
“Congratulations Quinnipiac on an incredible championship!” said Sen. Duff. “That last game was some of the best college hockey I’ve watched in a long time. The overtime goal was simultaneously powerful and beautiful. Enjoy the celebrations!”
“Congratulations to the players, coaches and entire staff of the Quinnipiac men’s ice hockey team on their thrilling overtime victory to capture the 2023 National Championship,” said Sen. Cabrera. “I am always proud to represent my old college and am extremely happy for each and every QU Bobcat, as this title run was truly admirable.”
Senators Looney, Duff, and Cabrera Release Statements on Quinnipiac University’s Championship
Senators Looney, Duff, and Cabrera Release Statements on Quinnipiac University’s Championship
Today, Senate President Pro Tempore Martin Looney (D-New Haven), Senate Majority Leader Bob Duff (D-Norwalk), and Senator Jorge Cabrera (D-Hamden) released statements celebrating Quinnipiac University winning the men’s hockey championship.
“Congrats to Hamden’s own Quinnipiac University on a championship win!” said Sen. Looney. “The team played with tremendous heart, skill, and determination throughout the entire tournament. Third time’s the charm!”
“Congratulations Quinnipiac on an incredible championship!” said Sen. Duff. “That last game was some of the best college hockey I’ve watched in a long time. The overtime goal was simultaneously powerful and beautiful. Enjoy the celebrations!”
“Congratulations to the players, coaches and entire staff of the Quinnipiac men’s ice hockey team on their thrilling overtime victory to capture the 2023 National Championship,” said Sen. Cabrera. “I am always proud to represent my old college and am extremely happy for each and every QU Bobcat, as this title run was truly admirable.”
Senators Looney, Duff, and Cabrera Release Statements on Quinnipiac University’s Championship
Senators Looney, Duff, and Cabrera Release Statements on Quinnipiac University’s Championship
Today, Senate President Pro Tempore Martin Looney (D-New Haven), Senate Majority Leader Bob Duff (D-Norwalk), and Senator Jorge Cabrera (D-Hamden) released statements celebrating Quinnipiac University winning the men’s hockey championship.
“Congrats to Hamden’s own Quinnipiac University on a championship win!” said Sen. Looney. “The team played with tremendous heart, skill, and determination throughout the entire tournament. Third time’s the charm!”
“Congratulations Quinnipiac on an incredible championship!” said Sen. Duff. “That last game was some of the best college hockey I’ve watched in a long time. The overtime goal was simultaneously powerful and beautiful. Enjoy the celebrations!”
“Congratulations to the players, coaches and entire staff of the Quinnipiac men’s ice hockey team on their thrilling overtime victory to capture the 2023 National Championship,” said Sen. Cabrera. “I am always proud to represent my old college and am extremely happy for each and every QU Bobcat, as this title run was truly admirable.”
Senators Looney and Duff Release Statement on Expulsion of Tennessee Representatives
Senators Looney and Duff Release Statement on Expulsion of Tennessee Representatives
Today, Senate President Pro Tempore Martin Looney (D-New Haven) and Senate Majority Leader Bob Duff (D-Norwalk) released the following statement regarding the expulsion of Tennessee Representatives Justin Jones and Justin Pearson:
“The expulsion of Rep. Justin Jones and Rep. Justin Pearson is a shockingly authoritarian and unapologetically racist act by Republicans in Tennessee. This anti-democratic action by a state legislative body tramples on the foundation of our free society. The Republican goal is clear: obtain power, silence dissent, and eliminate the rights of those who stand in the way.”
Senators Looney and Duff Release Statement on Expulsion of Tennessee Representatives
Senators Looney and Duff Release Statement on Expulsion of Tennessee Representatives
Today, Senate President Pro Tempore Martin Looney (D-New Haven) and Senate Majority Leader Bob Duff (D-Norwalk) released the following statement regarding the expulsion of Tennessee Representatives Justin Jones and Justin Pearson:
“The expulsion of Rep. Justin Jones and Rep. Justin Pearson is a shockingly authoritarian and unapologetically racist act by Republicans in Tennessee. This anti-democratic action by a state legislative body tramples on the foundation of our free society. The Republican goal is clear: obtain power, silence dissent, and eliminate the rights of those who stand in the way.”
Connecticut Black and Puerto Rican Caucus Releases the Following Statement Regarding the Expulsion of Tennessee Lawmakers Justin Jones and Justin Pearson
Connecticut Black and Puerto Rican Caucus Releases the Following Statement Regarding the Expulsion of Tennessee Lawmakers Justin Jones and Justin Pearson
HARTFORD, CT – The Connecticut Black and Puerto Rican Caucus released the following statement in response to the expulsion of two Black lawmakers from the Tennessee legislature. The Republican-led legislature expelled state Representatives Justin Jones and Justin Pearson and took an additional vote to expel state Representative Gloria Johnson following their lawful protest of lax gun control policy contributing to a nationwide crisis of school shootings and gun violence. Rep. Johnson narrowly avoided expulsion.
“I stand in support of the Tennessee Three, brave Black legislators Representatives Justin Jones, Justin Pearson and Gloria Johnson who were subjected to an expulsion vote for exercising their freedom of speech, speaking out against gun violence, and representing their constituents with class, strength and passion,” said Chair Senator Pat Billie Miller (D-Stamford). “They are calling what happened yesterday a ‘political lynching.’ The actions of the Republican-led Tennessee legislature to expel Rep. Jones and Rep. Pearson and taking an additional vote to expel Rep. Johnson, are disgraceful, racist and dishonorable. It is a blatant show of utter disregard for the opinions of their Black counterparts and the many constituents who share the same sentiments. Instead of expelling those who disagree with them, I strongly encourage the Tennessee legislature to direct their focus towards addressing the real issues Tennesseans face and trusted them to rectify.”
The Tennessee Three participated in protests alongside residents just days following the tragic shooting at the Covenant School, a private Christian school, where six people were killed, three of whom were children. Historically, it is rare for members of any state legislature to be expelled for matters not concerning serious misconduct.
“Today I fully recognize the privilege that comes with serving the State of Connecticut,” said Vice Chair and state Representative Antonio Felipe (D- Bridgeport). “Being the youngest member of our General Assembly and more importantly the BPRC I am ashamed of the Tennessee GOP for silencing the two powerful black voices of Justin Jones and Justin Pearson. The two youngest voices Representing their state. They have been used as a smokescreen to distract Tennesseans from the real issue that these brave, passionate representatives spoke out for in the first place. I commend Representative Gloria Johnson for standing alongside these men but the fact that she remains paints a full picture. This was clearly an act of racism but more importantly it was an act of fear. Young voices of color are rising up across this country, more and more of us are being elected to represent a generation that has never been represented before. We are unapologetic, we are ready to break the wheel and we do not accept the notion that we must fit a mold or an archetype. There is a future to be shaped across this country and in the best interest of that future this cannot be the last we see of Representatives Jones and Pearson.
The Connecticut BPRC stands in full solidarity with their fellow elected officials in Tennessee. If we stand by idly and ignore acts of blatant racism, we would not be fulfilling our duty to those who elected us to protect their freedoms. We hope that the Tennessee legislature truly unite to address gun violence rather than continue down the path of silencing those who are fighting to keep students and families safe.
Senator Lopes, New Britain Delegation Welcomes over $5.7 Million in State Bonding for Projects in New Britain
Senator Lopes, New Britain Delegation Welcomes over $5.7 Million in State Bonding for Projects in New Britain
Today, the New Britain Delegation comprised of state Senator Rick Lopes (D-New Britain), Representatives Peter Tercyak (D-New Britain), Manny Sanchez (D-New Britain), Robert Sanchez (D-New Britain), and Gary Turco (D-New Britain), is welcoming $5.7 million in funding approved by the State Bond Commission for projects in New Britain. Funds will be allocated to Meriden New Britain Berlin YMCA in New Britain and a historic mill complex on Ellis Street in New Britain.
“The New Britain community is in need of pre-k childcare and this funding will allow expansion in downtown New Britain as well as general improvements to the New Britain branch of the YMCA,” said Sen. Lopes. “I am thankful to the State Bond Commission and Governor Lamont for their support in helping parents and families in need. Their continued support and investments are crucial for the future of New Britain.”
“This funding presents a great opportunity for New Britain,” said Rep. Tercyak. “Given childcare and affordable housing’s critical importance to our state’s success, I’m proud to see New Britain putting these funds to good use and continuing to build a more inclusive community.”
“Investments in childcare and housing are always needed and welcomed – this transformation of otherwise dormant space is a much more beneficial use, and I am sure every last additional childcare slot will be a blessing for families in need,” said Rep. Manny Sanchez. “This is a sound investment for the future of New Britain.”
“The foundation of thriving neighborhoods and communities is access to childcare and housing,” said Rep. Robert Sanchez. “I am very pleased with the funding approval and look forward to the increased participation of children that will allow more parents to pursue and maintain gainful employment.”
“These are vital investments in the expansion of child care services and affordable housing,” said Rep. Gary Turco. “Investing in child care and affordable housing is essential because the returns on investment are immeasurable for children and families, the workforce and the local economy. I want to thank Governor Lamont and State Bond Commission for approving these critical community investments.”
“These funds will enable New Britain to expand services in two critical areas that have been priorities for my administration – access to childcare and affordable housing,” Governor Ned Lamont, who serves as chairman of the State Bond Commission, said. “I am glad that we could partner with these local organizations and make these projects a reality.”
Under the bonding agenda: The Meriden New Britain Berlin Young Men’s Christian Association in New Britain will be allocated $1.7 million to help with the renovation of some of the unused racquetball courts, repurposing them to create six additional childcare classrooms within the NAEYC accredited center. This expansion will allow increased childcare capacity for 72 children; The Ellis Street Mill, LLC will be allocated a $4 million loan for the adaptive reuse of the historic mill complex located at 321 Ellis Street in New Britain. The rehabilitation will result in 154 new affordable housing units for those making between 30% and 80% Area Median Income (AMI). 21 of these units will be for those making at or below 30% AMI.
SENATOR ANWAR, REPRESENTATIVE FOSTER WELCOME $3.7 MILLION IN STATE GRANTS TO UPGRADE ELLINGTON SCHOOL AIR FILTRATION
SENATOR ANWAR, REPRESENTATIVE FOSTER WELCOME $3.7 MILLION IN STATE GRANTS TO UPGRADE ELLINGTON SCHOOL AIR FILTRATION
Today, State Senator Saud Anwar (D-South Windsor) and State Representative Jaime Foster (D-Ellington) welcomed this week’s announcement that Governor Ned Lamont’s administration will award Ellington with $3,704,938 through the HVAC Indoor Air Quality Grants Program for Public Schools to improve air filtration and quality in local schools. This is part of a $56 million grant release to school systems across the state.
Ellington Center School will receive $671,000, Ellington Middle School will receive $1.003 million and Ellington High School will receive $2.03 million to facilitate improvements and upgrades to heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems; Ellington will supply remaining project costs.
The funds can be used for replacing, upgrading or repairing boilers and other heating/ventilation components; replacing controls and technology systems for HVAC operations; installing or upgrading air conditioning or ventilation systems; or other work approved by the Department of Administrative Services.
“Students and faculty deserve clean air for the best educational outcomes in schools,” said Sen. Anwar. “These vital grants will help improve student respiratory health and benefit Ellington not only in the short-term but the long-term as well. I’m grateful to Governor Lamont and his administration for investing in children’s health.”
“I was proud to advocate for this program and vote to approve it in last year’s budget,” said State Representative Jaime Foster (D-Ellington). “The Ellington delegation was happy to submit letters of support to obtain these grants. I’m happy to see Ellington receive these grants and I’m looking forward to making sure the rest of the towns in the 57th district are also eligible for future rounds of HVAC Indoor Air Quality Grants Program for Public Schools grants.”
The grants program, administered by the state Department of Administrative Services, was created as part of the budget adjustment bill passed by lawmakers and signed into law in the spring of 2022. The law further requires schools to inspect and evaluate HVAC systems every five years, requires these reports to be made public, and requires the reporting of any corrective action taken.
SENS. MARX, NEEDLEMAN WELCOME $12.009 MILLION IN STATE GRANTS TO UPGRADE REGION 18 SCHOOL AIR FILTRATION
SENS. MARX, NEEDLEMAN WELCOME $12.009 MILLION IN STATE GRANTS TO UPGRADE REGION 18 SCHOOL AIR FILTRATION
Today, State Senator Martha Marx (D-New London) and State Senator Norm Needleman (D-Essex) welcomed this week’s announcement that Governor Ned Lamont’s administration will award Region District 18 schools with $12.009 million through the HVAC Indoor Air Quality Grants Program for Public Schools to improve air filtration and quality. This is part of a $56 million grant release to school systems across the state.
The Lyme-Old Lyme Middle School will receive $6.24 million, the Lyme-Old Lyme Center School will receive $2.719 million and the Lyme-Old Lyme Consolidated School will receive $3.051 million for HVAC upgrades. The funds can be used for replacing, upgrading or repairing boilers and other heating/ventilation components; replacing controls and technology systems for HVAC operations; installing or upgrading air conditioning or ventilation systems; or other work approved by the Department of Administrative Services.
“Our students cannot thrive when they’re breathing in low-quality air,” said Sen. Marx. “If you can’t take a deep breath of healthy air, you can’t learn to the best of your ability. Low air quality can have negative impacts on student health and well-being. Teachers and faculty cannot effectively help students learn without a clean, healthy environment either. This will benefit their health as well. I’m thankful the Lamont Administration is investing in the health and futures of our students.”
“Last year, when elected officials approved legislation making adjustments to the state budget, we did so knowing that this funding would be included, and that it would directly benefit students around the state,” said Sen. Needleman. “I’m very encouraged that it will aid students in Lyme and Old Lyme. I’m grateful to Governor Lamont for investing in our community.”
The grants program, administered by the state Department of Administrative Services, was created as part of the budget adjustment bill passed by lawmakers and signed into law in the spring of 2022. The law further requires schools to inspect and evaluate HVAC systems every five years, requires these reports to be made public, and requires the reporting of any corrective action taken.
SEN. SLAP WELCOMES $1.082 MILLION IN STATE GRANTS TO UPGRADE LEWIS MILL HIGH SCHOOL AIR FILTRATION
SEN. SLAP WELCOMES $1.082 MILLION IN STATE GRANTS TO UPGRADE LEWIS MILL HIGH SCHOOL AIR FILTRATION
Today, State Senator Derek Slap (D-West Hartford) welcomed this week’s announcement that Governor Ned Lamont’s administration will award Burlington’s Lewis Mill High School with $1.082 million through the HVAC Indoor Air Quality Grants Program for Public Schools to improve air filtration and quality. This is part of a $56 million grant release to school systems across the state.
Lewis Mill High School will receive $1,082,406.33 from the state through this program. The funds can be used for replacing, upgrading or repairing boilers and other heating/ventilation components; replacing controls and technology systems for HVAC operations; installing or upgrading air conditioning or ventilation systems; or other work approved by the Department of Administrative Services. Cities and towns are required to provide matching grants to fund project costs.
“Students deserve the best possible learning environment to learn, grow and succeed; when they’re breathing in low-quality air, that’s an impediment that can potentially harm their health,” said Sen. Slap. “When legislators voted last year to support this grant program’s development, we knew it would pay dividends. I’m grateful to Governor Lamont for investing in the health and well-being of Lewis Mill High School students now and in the future.”
The grants program, administered by the state Department of Administrative Services, was created as part of the budget adjustment bill passed by lawmakers and signed into law in the spring of 2022. The law further requires schools to inspect and evaluate HVAC systems every five years, requires these reports to be made public, and requires the reporting of any corrective action taken.