I am sorry to report that the Chester community has lost our first resident from complications related to Coronavirus, a woman in her nineties. With deep sadness I wish peace and love on her family and loved ones and send condolences on behalf of our town.


Governor Lamont Orders Flags to Fly at Half-Staff

Governor Ned Lamont today announced that he is directing U.S. and State of Connecticut flags to be lowered to half-staff statewide effective immediately in recognition and mourning of all those who have lost their lives and been affected by COVID-19. The flags will remain lowered throughout the emergency. Accordingly, since no flag should fly higher than the U.S. flag, all other flags – including state, municipal, corporate, or otherwise – should also be lowered during this same duration of time.



Paycheck Protection Program Recorded Webinars

Great information about resources for small business help available from the Women’s Business Development Council. They did a great webinar yesterday which can be watched on their Facebook page or on their website at Women's Business Development Council . There are lists of lenders, information about the Paycheck Protection Plan and step by step instructions on how to navigate the stimulus package.

Earlier this week, Economic Innovation Group, or EIG, recorded a webinar on the Paycheck Protection Program, offering forgivable loans to small businesses hit hard by COVID-19. You can  listen to a recording here  and access a  program overview and frequently asked questions here .
 

Access Health CT   is extending the deadline for enrollment to April 17th. The only way to sign up for the extended special enrollment period is by calling 1-855-365-2428. For enrollments between April 3 - April 17, coverage will be effective on May 1.

Gov. Lamont is hosting a statewide conference call for employers at 1 pm Thursday, featuring officials from the U.S. Small Business Administration and the departments of Economic and Community Development, Banking, and Insurance. The call will cover topics including the Federal Paycheck Protection Program, Economic Injury Disaster Loans and Grants, Connecticut initiatives to assist businesses and residents, mortgage deferment and assistance, and health insurance grace periods.


Yesterday, Governor Lamont signed the 23rd executive order. One of the provisions is ensuring safe workplaces in essential businesses. Safe Workplaces Rules for Essential Employers on its website


Audible recently launched a free listening experience for children who are isolated and away from school and friends during these troubled times. Only days after the launch of  stories.audible.com , many millions of children are listening around the world. The collection includes audio in English, French, German, Italian, Japanese and Spanish. If you know of young children and families who would appreciate the opportunity to listen to hundreds of Audible titles, or parents who want some time to themselves while kids are positively occupied with transporting storytelling, please pass the link along. 



The Chester Town Hall, although closed to the public, remains open Monday - Thursday, 9-12 and 1-4 and Friday from 9-12 for the time being. We are not working on Tuesday evenings at this time. Please call 860-526-0013 for an appointment.



Be well,

Lauren