Media

WASHINGTON – Connecticut Senators Joe Lieberman and Richard Blumenthal and Congressman John B. Larson (CT-01) announced Wednesday that the West Hartford Fire Department has been awarded a $103,200 grant for Operations and Safety from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Assistance to Firefighters Grant program (AFG).

WASHINGTON – Congressman John B. Larson (CT-01) released the following statement recognizing Black History Month, which begins today:

"Black History Month is an opportunity to reflect on the diversity that makes this nation great; to honor the great contributions of African Americans; and to extend the legacy of the uniquely American promise of equality for all. I know that keeping that promise requires more than just lip service; it demands a firm commitment that everyone gets a fair shot at success regardless of their race, ethnicity, or background.

HARTFORD – This morning Congressman John B. Larson (CT-01) joined Hartford Hospital leadership to tour the brand new emergency department.

The emergency department, which will officially open tomorrow, features 26 new treatment spaces and expand and update the existing emergency department from 30,000 square feet to include 14,200 renovated and 2,800 new square feet.

HARTFORD, CT- Congressman John B. Larson (CT01) released the following statement regarding the proposed defense budget for Fiscal Year 2013:

"Yesterday, Secretary Leon Panetta outlined his vision for the Department of Defense. While I understand the constraints of tight budgets and I appreciate the Secretary's efforts to make our military more efficient, I have serious concerns with a number of his proposals.

WASHINGTON – Congressman John B. Larson (CT-01) released the following statement on the decision by Congresswoman Gabby Giffords to retire from Congress to focus on her recovery:

"Gabby Giffords commitment to her constituents, service to the country, tremendous strength, and message of civility is an inspiration to us all.

"She will be sorely missed in the House. I wish her, and her husband Mark, all the best as they focus on her recovery. I hope she will be able to return to the public service she loves soon."

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(Hartford, CT) – The Connecticut Congressional Delegation today announced the release of more than $19 million in additional support from the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) to help low income households with energy costs this winter. The release of these funds - combined with over $59 million since October 2011 - brings Connecticut's total allocation for the 2012 fiscal year to nearly $80 million:

WASHINGTON – Congressman John B. Larson (CT-01) issued the following statement today upon news of the passing of legendary WTNH Weatherman Dr. Mel Goldstein:

"For decades Connecticut residents turned to Dr. Mel Goldstein for not only information on the weather, but to make them smile and laugh. His vibrant personality and incredible knowledge of meteorology made him a larger-than-life figure throughout the state. I am deeply saddened to hear of his passing and I offer my deepest condolences to his entire family during this time."