Joe Canino

June Is Alzheimer's & Brain Awareness Month

June is Alzheimer's & Brain Awareness Month, a time to raise awareness about Alzheimer's disease and the importance of maintaining brain health throughout life. Alzheimer's disease is the most common form of dementia, affecting memory, thinking, and behavior. While age is the greatest known risk factor, Alzheimer's is not a normal part of aging. Early recognition of symptoms can help individuals and families access support and care sooner. Supporting brain health can include regular physical activity, a nutritious diet, quality sleep, social engagement, and staying mentally active. These healthy habits may help reduce the risk of cognitive decline and improve overall well-being. This month also honors the millions of caregivers who provide support to loved ones living with Alzheimer's and other forms of dementia. Their compassion and dedication make a meaningful difference every day. During Alzheimer's & Brain Awareness Month, take time to learn about the disease, support those affected, and promote healthy habits that benefit brain health at every age. Resources: Connecticut's Guide for Navigating Dementia Care Alzheimer’s Association

WATCH: Torrington Intermediate School's America 250 Art

Check out Torrington Intermediate School Students' Artwork Project , commemorating America's 250th Birthday!

Major Public Acts 2026

The Connecticut General Assembly’s Office of Legislative Research has released its 2026 “Major Public Acts” report. It is an annual overview highlighting the most significant legislation enacted during this year’s legislative session. The report organizes new laws by policy area and provides a helpful summary of the changes that may affect Connecticut residents, families, municipalities, and businesses. I encourage you to take a look, as many of these updates could have a direct impact on your daily life or work. Click here to access the full report.

On Air with WZBG, 2026 Session Wrap

Check out Rep. Joe Canino’s (R-Torrington) recent interview with Dale Jones on WZBG! They discuss several major pieces of legislation the General Assembly considered and acted on during this year’s legislative session.

2026 State Budget Adjustments

Torrington will receive nearly $3.5 million in additional funding as a result of the adjustments made to the current state budget document. This funding will make a significant impact locally, helping to stabilize mill rates and cut to the heart of the state’s affordability issues. Additional components of the budget include: More funding for our community, stabilizing property taxes Funds fire school training facilities, providing more resources to Torrington’s school (Litchfield County Fire Training School) Invests in workforce programs and education Increases the exemption amount for “sales tax free week” from $100 to $300 and adds backpacks and cleated shoes to the list of items that can be bought tax-free Creates a sales and use tax exemption for nonelectronic school supplies Establishes a family caregiver tax credit for residents caring for a loved one Looking Ahead... While this budget includes several positive elements, I remain cautiously optimistic. Moving forward, we must carefully prioritize resources to ensure that mill rates remain under control and that we continue addressing the cost-of-living challenges facing our community. ###