Tom Kehoe | The Press Room

State Furnance and Boiler Replacement Rebate Program

Here are the details on this program about which I previously wrote. Remember the new boiler must be at least 84% efficient.

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More progress on Bike Ways Plan

Coming just after approval of the $600,000 grant for construction of the Bike Way from Bell Street to Smith School, a developer has agree to include 1000 feet of Bike Way along Eastern and Western Blvds as part of planning approval.

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Tom worked to secure $600,000 state grant for Glastonbury Bike Ways Project

State money will supplement town appropriations to construct first mile of bike way from Bell Street area to Smith School area. Plan is for bike way to eventually reach Main Steet and Riverfront Park. See the town's website for a copy of the entire Bike Way Plan.

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Kehoe Gets Endorsement - League of Conservation Voters

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Glastonbury is Storm Ready

Tom with Glastonbury Emergency Management team on award of "Storm Ready" to Glastonbury by NOAH. Tom Kehoe supports Robert Dibella, accepting awards on behalf of Glastonbury, for our town being storm ready!

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Glastonbury Gets New Voting Machines

Tom Kehoe is present for the previewing of the town's new voting machines! Tom with Democratic Registrar candidate Zelda Lessne discussing the new voting machines to be available to the town for the 2007 elections. Secretary of State Susan Bysiewicz came to Glastonbury at the request of Senator Mary Ann Handley to discuss the new voting machines and their benefit of providing a paper trail of votes cast.

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Evening with Stephen Stills & Tom Kehoe

Tom Kehoe & Stephen Stills from Cheney Hall

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Tom Kehoe Supports our Troops!

View pictures as well as work together to support out Troops!

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09/08/08

Sierra Club Endorses Tom

Contact: Martin Mador
Political Co-Chair
September 8, 2008 (203) 500-7245
For immediate Release (203) 281-4326
Sierra Club Endorses Thomas Kehoe For State Representative
(Hartford) The Connecticut chapter of the Sierra Club has announced its support for Thomas Kehoe, candidate for re-election to the state house for the 31st District, which includes Glastonbury. The endorsement is a reflection of the candidate’s commitment to supporting important environmental priorities.
Thomas Kehoe has shown himself to be a strong advocate for protecting the
environmental health and, therefore, the quality of life, of Connecticut. We are pleased to recognize his commitment to this most important of legislative priorities, and look forward to his efforts during the 2009-2010 legislative session.
The endorsement comes after an intensive review of the candidate’s stated
positions as reflected in responses to the Candidate Questionnaire and record of environmental concern. Additionally, for incumbents, the candidate’s voting record and leadership in sponsoring and supporting environmental legislation was reviewed.
Endorsements are made available to Sierra members, so that they may understand the candidate’s positions, and follow them through the two years of the upcoming legislative session. Endorsements must be ratified by both the state Political Committee and the state Executive Committee.
The Sierra Club considers only environmental issues in awarding endorsements.
Issues important to the Connecticut Chapter this year included funding for the DEP, property tax reform, statewide land use planning, energy conservation and reduction of greenhouse gases, regional planning and cooperation, avoidance of toxics, farmland protection, transportation infrastructure and mass transit, expanding bottle deposits to non-carbonated beverages, wetlands and river buffer protection, and green buildings.
Founded in 1892, The Sierra Club is the oldest and largest environmental
advocacy group in the country, with 750,000 members nationwide, and 11,000 in Connecticut. The Sierra Club is dedicated to the enjoyment and protection of the natural places of the earth, and is America's most effective advocate for the environment. The Connecticut Chapter believes that political action, including endorsement of proenvironment
candidates for public office, is an important strategy for achieving these
goals.
Phone: 860-236-4405 -- Email: Connecticut.chapter@sierraclub.org
Fax: 860-236-3782

08/28/08

Energy Cost Relief

Tom comments on results of Assembly's special session on Energy Cost Relief

Around 1 a.m. Saturday morning the General Assembly passed two bills, which the Governor has agreed to sign into law and which could, depending upon need this winter spend $75M from the budget surplus on heating assistance. While the details of how to apply are being finalized, I wanted Glastonbury residents to know about the programs and hope that those eligible and in need will take advantage of them

The overall plan directs $44 million of the surplus to help low and middle-income families, the elderly, public schools and some nonprofit groups. Another $35 million will be in a contingency fund should it be needed.

Operation Fuel, a nonprofit statewide program that provides emergency energy assistance to low-income working families, the elderly and the disabled will receive $8.5 million to provide assistance between November 1, 2008 and April 30, 2009 to CT households with income levels of more than 150% to 200% of the applicable federal poverty level (FPL) and another $5 million for CT households with income levels of 200% or more of the applicable FPL so long as this is no more than 100% of the state median household income. For a family of four, the income ranges for each program are $31,800 to $42,400 and $42,400 to $93,821 respectively.

Senior citizens age 65 and older who make up to 100 percent of the state median income are also provided assistance, as are towns and cities, which heat schools, for which an additional $6.5 million is available. Nonprofit social service and public health groups will receive $3.5 million to provide assistance.

The second bill provides some protections for consumers by reducing the minimum delivery amount of heating oil and propane from 125 gallons to 100 gallons and prohibiting fuel dealers from imposing surcharges on deliveries in excess of 100 gallons.

It also provides some security to consumers who purchase prepaid contracts by requiring that fuel dealers have contracts for 80 percent of the oil or gas they commit to provide customers or post a bond equal to 50 percent of the total amount they received from customers.

While subsiding fuel purchases provides immediate assistance, greater efficiency and conservation are the better method to reduce cost in the long run. To that end, the program that provides $500 rebates to people who upgrade or replace existing furnaces and boilers was expanded with an additional $5 million appropriation and eligibility for the Energy Conservation Loan Program for state residents was also expanded with another $2 million to provide loans to homeowners and landlords for energy conservation. DSS will have $2 million to provide winterization assistance and, to find out what can best be done in each household, the second bill provides $7 million for grants to oil companies and other entities to conduct energy audits for consumers who use home heating oil. This is similar to the audits currently available from the electric companies. I was glad to cosponsor both of these bills.

08/13/08

The Association of University Professors Endorses Tom Kehoe

The CT State University - American Association of University Professors endorsed Tom's candidacy citing their perception that he recognizes the need for public higher education in Connecticut and his interest in maintaining a viable and quality program of higher education for CT in the future. The Association stated that their membership of faculty will be informed of their endorsement and urged to support Tom's election.

08/05/08

AFT Connecticut Endorses Tom Kehoe

AFT Connecticut, a Union of Professionals from the Public Education, Teaching, Healthcare and other professions today announced their endorsement for Tom's candidacy for re-election. The union represents over 28,000 people in both the public and private sector in Connecticut. Tom was also endorsed by AFT Connecticut in 2006.

08/04/08

Connecticut League of Conservation Voters Endorses Tom Kehoe!

August 4, 2008

Dear Representative Kehoe:

It is my pleasure to inform you that the board of the Connecticut League of Conservation Voters (CTLCV) has decided to issue your candidacy an early endorsement for the 2008 election cycle.

We appreciate the time you have devoted to clean air, water, wildlife, open space and energy issues in Connecticut, and for providing us with your positions in our candidate questionnaire.

As you know, CTLCV is a statewide bi-partisan organization that monitors environmental legislation at the State Capitol, and tracks voting records of legislators on important environmental policy. We have endorsed you because we believe your constituents will be well served by your continued strong leadership to make environmental issues a priority.

We encourage you to use our endorsement in your campaign mailings and statements. From this point forward, the new campaign finance laws appear to prohibit CTLCV from communicating with you further about election related matters. We will publicize your endorsement through our media and membership channels and with concerned voters across the state.

Again, thank you for caring about Connecticut¢s environment. We look forward to working with you in the years ahead.

Sincerely,

Lori Brown
Executive Director

Lori Brown, Executive Director
Connecticut League of Conservation Voters
553 Farmington Avenue, Suite 201
Hartford, CT 06105

07/24/08

Social Workers' Association Endorses Tom

CT-Pace, the poltical action committee of the National Association of Social Workers, CT Chapter endorsed Tom noting their belief that he shares the values that social workers across the state have pledged themselves to uphold and that when elected he will work for fair and just solutions to Connecticut's critical social and economic issues.

05/14/08

Salmon River Watershed Conservation Compact

Last Wednesday I had the pleasure to participate in the signing of the Salmon River Watershed Conservation Compact, held at the Salmon River State Park in East Hampton. The Compact was entered into by the 10 towns that comprise the Salmon River Watershed, Bolton, Colchester, Columbia, East Haddam, East Hampton, Glastonbury, Haddam, Hebron, Lebanon and Marlborough.
This Compact is important for many reasons. Firstly, the extensive area comprising the watershed supplies drinking water for residents. Secondly, the Salmon River and many of the tributaries forming it are used by countless anglers, hikers and paddlers, thus providing recreation and a healthy lifestyle for those participants.
Finally, the Salmon River flows into the Connecticut River in East Haddam, which in turn flows into Long Island Sound. So in a real sense what happens everywhere from the headwaters of the many tributaries, through the streams, brooks and creeks and into the Rivers, affects our entire ecosystem.
This Compact, voluntarily entered into by the 10 towns will, as stated in the Compact foster “each municipality’s goals of promoting a healthy community, preserving town character, fostering ecological integrity and nurturing sustainable economic growth.” Under the Compact the towns commit to “work cooperatively to balance conservation and growth by protecting and restoring the water resources of the watershed, including quality of the water and stream and groundwater flows that sustain the native flora and fauna of these systems; supporting efforts to link and maintain ecologically viable habitats and rural landscapes through the watershed and working to ensure the long-term environmental health and vitality of the watershed and thereby enhancing the social and economic vitality of the watershed communities.”
On another level, this Compact is important because of the regional cooperation it stimulates. At the state level, one of the areas we have been working on to provide property tax relief is encouraging and rewarding towns that work together in a more efficient manner, with the goal of reducing expenditures. Perhaps in working together here the towns can identify assets and resources that can be shared rather then acquired by each town.
According to Duffy and Gerhard Schade, in Glastonbury three watercourses and many unnamed streams and springs contribute to feed the Salmon River: Blackledge Creek, Dickinson Creek and Flat Brook, which flows out of Diamond Lake. And, as Glastonbury residents have come to expect, our town has already done much to protect these headwater and watershed areas with the various conservation easements it has obtained, the open space it has acquired, the formation of the Kongscut Land Trust by dedicated land conservationists in town and by our good fortune of having the Meshomasic State Forest partly in Glastonbury.
Congratulation to the town staff, commissions, town manager Richard Johnson, and the town council for their efforts to date and now for their commitment to this Compact and to town council chair Susan Karp for her leadership at the Compact organizational meetings.
As always, if we are each mindful of how we treat our environment and each do our part to keep our waterways clean we will all collectively benefit.

03/28/08

Help for Veterans

As we greet the much anticipated spring season, The Connecticut General Assembly is still going through one of the busiest times of the legislative session, when committee clerks, chairs and committee members all work together in the reviewing process of all proposed bills that have been submitted and holding hearings on the proposed bills, to see which ones will continue to move forward. A great amount of time, effort and care is put into screening proposals; crafting language and ensuring that each bill gets fair consideration on time before imminent deadlines called joint final or JF dates.
I have introduced and co-sponsored a few pieces of legislation that are going through this process right now and I remain optimistic that some of them will make it through the process successfully.
As a member of the state legislature, I support legislation that will benefit not only my district and my constituency, but every Connecticut resident. Therefore, I am constantly looking for opportunities that will allow me to make a difference that way. For instance, although I am not a member of the Veterans’ Affairs committee, it is important to me to support our veterans and ensure that their benefits move forward. Sadly, until recently veterans benefits have actually declined at the federal level, and, as in many other areas, it has fallen to the states to take up the shortfall.
One of the initiatives that I am particularly pleased to support is S.B. 259 An Act Concerning a State Set-Aside Program for Disabled Veterans. This bill would provide a program for the men and women who served our country in the armed forces, who became disabled during service, as defined by the Veterans' Administration and whose disability was incurred in the line of duty while active with one of the armed forces, or was discharged or released from such service honorably.
This bill deserves all our support and I am confident that we will be able to make it happen as we move along this legislative session.
I would like to take this opportunity to bring to your attention a very important event happening next month in the Legislative Office Building. The Veterans Benefits and Information Fair will be held on Saturday, April 19 from 9 am to 3 pm in the State Capitol complex. Booths with information about health, employment and many other issues will be available to all veterans and their families. Please help me get the word out and be sure to tell your friends and family about this very special event.

02/13/08

2008 Session Agenda

With the 2008 legislative session upon us, I would like to share some plans and priorities for this year, as we focus on ‘Building a Framework for our Families’. Collectively, the House Democrats have put together an agenda that provides property tax relief, encourages economic growth and job creation, as well as the promotion of a healthier Connecticut.

Healthcare initiatives will focus on prevention programs, access to mental health services and reducing insurance costs through ‘pooling’. This is an approach that would ease the local financial burden by allowing municipalities the option to join the state’s health plan, if they determine doing so offers quality care for less money.

Further property tax relief efforts will include developing a more stable and predictable revenue source for municipalities, promoting multi town cooperation for providing services, and looking into state assumption of more local costs such as special education.

Additionally, we are looking to bring small business tax relief with elimination of the business entity tax. A number of creative alternatives are also being examined through the increased film industry investment, the development of a nanotechnology industry in the state and the expansion of insurance industry products to assist with job creation and strengthening our business base. Both initiatives will also help ensure that our professional and college graduates stay in Connecticut.

A ‘greener’ Connecticut through increased energy efficiency programs and continued investment in the state’s transportation infrastructure is also on our list of priorities.

Transportation infrastructure is a key component driving the economy and I am happy to see that our leaders are ready with plans and recommendations to aid the deteriorating state of Connecticut’s roads and bridges. If our roads and highways are safe and sound, our businesses will continue to grow. I will also be encouraging increased investment in mass transit to help fight the gridlock overtaking our highway system.

Although this 2008 legislative session is short, an aggressive agenda is planned and I look forward to working with my colleagues to keep our state healthy and our communities growing.

01/30/08

Criminal Justice Legislation

Last Tuesday night, actually about 2:40 a.m. on Wednesday morning the House passed a package of reforms to strengthen the state’s criminal justice system that includes wide-ranging changes to the penal code, the parole system, victim services and the information systems used by criminal justice agencies.

The legislation comes as the result of a burglary in Cheshire last July, where three family members were murdered.

I have to credit leadership and the judiciary committee for their diligence in turning out this important piece of legislation. Representative Mike Lawlor, the long time House chair of the judiciary committee is a former prosecutor and currently is also a law school professor. Mike’s knowledge and experience in helping to draft the bill was invaluable and the manner in which he brought the bill out in the House was both educational and statesmanlike.

Included in the legislative package is the establishment of a new crime of “home invasion” that makes the burglary of an occupied residence a Class A felony punishable by a 25-year sentence. It also classifies all residential burglaries as “violent,” which requires that a minimum of 85 percent of the sentence be served before being eligible for parole. The legislation also establishes a new, modern electronic communications system for each of the state’s criminal justice agencies to immediately share vital files about convicts and creates the requirement that the Board of Pardons and Parole cannot act upon a parole decision unless they have the complete file of the convict, including police reports, pre-sentence investigations, sentencing transcripts, and prison, parole and probation files.

In addition, the legislation strengthens the state’s “persistent offender” law by making it easier for prosecutors to seek, and for judges to impose, life sentences for subsequent conviction of serious violent crimes, or doubled sentences on other types of repeat criminals.

Some of the other items in the legislation include the requirement of GPS supervision for an additional 300 parolees, the modification of the membership of the Board of Pardons and Parole to full-time status, a simplification of the crime victim notification procedure and the appropriation of additional funds for re-entry and diversionary services.

The bill was earlier passed in the Senate and the Governor has indicated she is pleased with the bill and intends to sign it into law.

08/08/07

Electronics Recycling

If your house is like ours, you probably have a few old or broken computers and other electronic devices around that you are not sure of how to dispose. And, as prices continue to come down for electronic devices, the cost to upgrade or repair them becomes non-economic. Because of the combination of metals and plastic in them you don’t want to just throw them away, they are not easily recycled and the millions of them, now sitting in homes, will further take up landfill space and potentially add to our pollution problems.

I bill that I supported, now Public Act. 07-189, An Act Concerning the Collection and Recycling of Covered Electronic Devices, puts Connecticut in the forefront with a few other stating in addressing this problem.

This act creates a mandatory recycling program for discarded computers and televisions. Starting January 1, 2009, manufacturers must register and participate in a program to implement and finance the collection, transportation, and recycling of these covered electronic devices (CEDs). They may participate in the statewide program or a private program.

Each registered manufacturer also must pay recyclers the reasonable costs of transporting and recycling its CEDs. The act sets a maximum transportation and recycling reimbursement rate of 50 cents per pound.
It requires municipalities to provide for the convenient recycling of CEDs generated within their borders and arrange for bringing CEDs to DEP-approved recyclers.
The act prohibits, starting January 1, 2011, anyone (1) from knowingly discarding a CED at a solid waste disposal facility other than a transfer station, and (2) charging a fee to state residents bringing seven or fewer CEDs to a collector (a transfer station or solid waste hauler) at any one time.
There was considerable discussion on whom to place the cost of recycling. I think it makes sense to put it at the point of manufacture. Although manufactures will try to pass the cost along to consumers, the electronics industry is a very competitive one and, knowing they have this obligation, I believe manufactures will now be even more motivated to reduce the amount of metal and plastic they use and the design their products with disposal in mind. Many manufactures are already factoring these “lifecycle costs” into their products and this will encourage them further.
One other point raised by a fellow freshman legislator sitting next to me, Larry Butler, merits mention here as a reminder to all. Larry works in the IT area and was concerned about the potential accumulation of personal data on computers once they are collected and recycled en masse. Thanks to Larry mentioning this during debate, the bill’s proponent has gotten DEP’s commitment to deal with the protection of personal data when the Act’s implementing regulations are drafted. However, it is a good reminder to remove such information whenever you are disposing of a computer or other data storage device.

07/13/07

"Smart Growth" Bill

Many of the bills that were passed in the House and Senate are now making their way to the Governor’s desk for her consideration and signature into law, if she agrees.

Last week I attended a signing ceremony for sHB No. 7275, Public Act No. 07-131, An Act Concerning the Face of Connecticut which is a bill that I cosponsored. The week before that, Governor Rell also signed into law, sSB 872, Public Act No. 0162, An Act Establishing a Farmland Preservation Advisory Board, a bill that I also cosponsored.

Both of these bills, together with a few more making their way to the Governor’s office are part of a series of “Smart Growth” initiatives that I supported and believe are very important to preserve the character of Connecticut and to slow the rate of sprawl and congestion overtaking our state.

The Face of Connecticut Act increases the grant ceiling for the Open Space and Watershed Acquisition Grant Program. This Program provides financial assistance to municipalities and nonprofit land conservation organizations to acquire open space and watershed land and water companies to acquire water supply property. For municipalities the grant ceiling will now be 65%. The Act also creates an interest free loan program to help municipalities purchase agricultural land.

The Farmland Preservation Advisory Board Act creates a 12 member Farmland Preservation Advisory Board to help the agriculture department with its purchase of development rights program and other efforts to preserve agricultural lands. The state’s purchase of development rights is the primary farmland preservation tool. All too often farmland becomes lost because the department is not able to act quickly enough or there is not enough money available. Importantly, this Act requires the bond commission to vote on whether to issue unallocated bonds that the General Assembly approved for agricultural land preservation programs when such funds are available. Additionally, under this Act when the balance of approved bonds is less than $5 million at the time of the bond commission’s next meeting, the commission must vote on whether to issue remaining unallocated bonds and, if there are pending agricultural land preservations in excess of $5 million, the Act allows the commissioner to request, and requires the commission to vote on whether to issue bonds of more than $5 million.

These Acts will help towns like Glastonbury stem the tide of over development and provide money which, I believe, will be well spent.

07/10/07

REP. TOM KEHOE LAUDS GRANT AWARD

State Representative Tom Kehoe (D-Glastonbury) today lauded a grant awarded to Glastonbury’s Historical Society (HSG) by the Greater Hartford Arts Council, in association with the Connecticut Humanities Council and the Hartford Foundation for Public Giving.

HSG was awarded the Heritage Grant Year II for $9,792 to hire a full-time Curator/Education Program Coordinator.

“My commitment to supporting cultural programs in Connecticut is very strong. I am delighted to see that such a fine organization like the Historical Society of Glastonbury is getting additional support,” Rep. Kehoe said. “The outstanding programs that HSG brings to the community are invaluable, and everything that we do to help, makes an enormous difference.”

The Historical Society of Glastonbury is dedicated to preserving the town’s history and educating the public to help them make informed decisions.

06/18/07

Health Care Legislation

One of the priorities for this year’s session was to address access to affordable healthcare. And, one of the successes in this endeavor is a bill, An Act Concerning Health First Connecticut and Healthy Kids Initiatives. Much of the work behind this bill was the result of the Healthy Kids Connecticut work group, a collaboration of legislators, healthcare professionals, childcare advocates and business representatives.

One of the major problems that was identified was the inability of individuals to access the health care system. This results in people showing up at emergency rooms for routine health concerns, the most expensive point to deliver services and, this, of course, drives up the cost for all. Under this bill all uninsured newborns will now automatically be enrolled into the Husky system upon birth and will be covered for the first two months of their lives. Once into the system and, with greater outreach to parents and families on the available programs for children, the goal is to keep them covered with insurance and with it to keep them healthier. In the end this helps keep the cost of medical care down for all.

Another key provision of this bill expands the eligibility of children in families with income levels up to 400% of the federal poverty level, up from the current level of 300%. This is expected to give access to another 7100 children. Parent eligibility of HUSKY enrolled children will also increase to give access to around another 10,000 more residents. Also, coverage for pregnant women, including prenatal care will also be expanded to help ensure the health of children upon birth.

A very cost effective way to administer health care is through the School Based Health Clinics and additional funding to increase access to them is also included.

One of the limitations in getting health care for the uninsured has been the very low reimbursement rates paid to health care providers. These rates had not been increased in 18 years and were so low that health care providers, particularity dentists, for pediatric dental care, were discouraged from participating. These reimbursement rates are increased in this bill

Finally, in an further effort at medical cost containment, technology upgrades including an electronic medial records systems, an Office of Healthcare Advocate website for consumers and a state date collection system will be developed and implemented.

While there is still much to be done to improve access to affordable health care for all Connecticut residents this is a good step in the right direction. It passed with wide majorities in both houses and I was pleased to vote for it. It has now gone to the Governor for her signature.

06/05/07

REP. KEHOE SUPPORTS TEACHERS’ PENSIONS FUNDING

State Rep. Thomas Kehoe (D-Glastonbury) hailed legislation to shore up finances in Connecticut’s Teachers’ Retirement Fund (TRF) that passed the House of Representatives and will save taxpayers billions of dollars in the long term.

The legislation would reduce the growth in the TRF’s unfunded liability – estimated at $6.9 billion – by authorizing State Treasurer Denise Nappier to purchase pension obligation bonds at favorable interest rates, thus allowing the state to substitute higher interest for lower interest debt.

“This is a very important step forward to investing wisely in our future. I am glad that we are taking the appropriate steps to fully fund and guarantee teachers’ retirement benefits,” Rep. Kehoe stated. “And I am also pleased that on a go forward basis, the state will be properly funding this account. Our economy and state will only benefit if the state pays for obligations as they are incurred and lives within its budget.”

With a repayment term spread over 25 years, savings on the lower interest debt could reach $2.8 billion. The legislation was first proposed by Speaker Amann and Treasurer Nappier in February.

As a condition of the bond sale, the legislation also commits to fund teachers’ pensions at 100% of actuarial recommended contributions, something the state failed to do from 1992-2005.

05/21/07

Energize Connecticut

A week ago Monday I held an energy forum at the Riverfront Community Center, entitled “Energize Connecticut.” The panel members set out why our energy prices are high and what is being done to make energy more affordable. As with most things, there is no quick fix but perhaps one of the best things that government can do is to help people help themselves. And what we can do to reduce our cost of energy is to use less of it. The figure used by most experts is that for every dollar spent in energy efficiency there is a four dollar savings in avoided energy cost.

In the current session there are a number of bills that will aid the consumer in achieving energy efficiency. But there are also many programs at both the state and federal level that can already be used. A recent Office of Legislative Research Report set them out and I hope Glastonbury residents will be able to take advantage of some of these and the additional ones that I hope will become law. Set forth below are some of the existing programs:

State Incentives
The following products are exempt from the sales tax until June 30, 2007: (1) insulation, programmable thermostats, water heaters and water heater blankets, window film, window and door weather strips, and caulking; (2) natural gas and propane furnaces and boilers that meet federal Energy Star standards; (3) windows and doors that meet federal Energy Star standards; (4) oil furnaces and boilers that are at least 85% efficient; and (5) ground-based heat pumps that meet the minimum federal efficiency rating. Further information about the Energy Star standards, including a list of products that meet them, can be found at www. energystar. gov.
Current law exempts from the sales tax hybrid passenger cars purchased before October 1, 2008 that have a highway mileage rating of 40 mpg.
Federal Incentives
The Energy Policy Act of 2005 provides federal income tax credits for homeowners who make energy improvements from January 1, 2006 through December 31, 2007. The eligible measures include:
1. added insulation to walls, ceilings, or other parts of the building envelope;
2. energy-efficient replacement windows;
3. high-efficiency gas, oil, and propane furnaces and boilers;
4. high-efficiency central air conditioning units, including air-source and ground-source heat pumps;
5. high-efficiency fans for heating and cooling systems; and
6. high-efficiency water heaters, including heat pump water heaters.
The credits are (1) 10% of the cost of added insulation, up to $ 500; (2) 10% of the cost of replacement windows, up to $ 200; (3) $ 150 for qualifying furnaces and boilers; (4) $ 300 for qualifying air conditioning units; (5) $ 50 for qualifying heating fans and cooling systems; and (6) $ 300 for qualifying water heaters. The maximum amount of homeowner credit for all improvements combined is $ 500 during the two-year period of the tax credit.
The act also provides tax credits for builders of energy efficient homes. Builders are eligible for a $ 2,000 tax credit for a new energy efficient home that achieves 50% energy savings for heating and cooling over the 2004 International Energy Conservation Code and supplements. At least 20% of the energy savings must come from building envelope improvements (e. g. , window replacements). The tax credits apply to qualified new homes built or produced from January 1, 2006 through December 31, 2007. Further information about the tax credits is available at http: //www. energystar. gov/index. cfm?c=products. pr_tax_credits#2.
Federal law provides a tax credit for light-duty hybrid vehicles based on their improved fuel economy and their life-time fuel savings potential. The current credits range from $ 250 to $ 3,000, depending on make and model. Further information about this credit is available at http: //www. eere. energy. gov/afdc/laws/tax_credits. html.

04/16/07

HEALTHY RIVERS VALUABLE COMMUNITY ASSETS

Connecticut is officially on the cutting edge of river management. Harvard University’s Kennedy School of Government recently announced the Top 50 Government Innovations for 2007 and The Partnership Wild and Scenic River Program, which includes our own Farmington River, made the grade. Selected from a pool of nearly 1,000 applicants, these programs are recognized for their novelty and creativity, effectiveness at addressing significant issues, and their potential to be replicated. They represent the very best of public management and highlight innovative practices that produce renewed confidence in public service.

The U.S. Department of the Interior’s Partnership Wild and Scenic Rivers Program is one of only six federal programs among this year’s winners. While most federally-designated Wild and Scenic rivers are on federal land, the Partnership Program is designed to manage rivers that flow through privately-owned or state land in densely developed areas. The program is unique in involving all levels of government and private interests in studying, planning, and managing the rivers. The federal Wild and Scenic Rivers designation provides the strongest level of protection available for rivers that are free-flowing and possess outstanding values.

The program has worked so well that it’s no surprise that it has won special recognition. In fact, Connecticut’s very own Farmington River is part of this innovative program and no doubt why it is so successful. Protected by Congress in 1984 under the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act as a Partnership River, the Farmington is celebrated for its simple beauty, abundant resources, and rich history. Fertile spawning grounds along rivers like the Farmington are at the heart of efforts to restore Atlantic salmon to the Connecticut River basin.

Another Connecticut treasure, the Eightmile River Watershed, is currently seeking the same level of attention, recognition, and protection. Senator Chris Dodd and Congressman Joe Courtney have introduced bills this Congress to designate the Eightmile River Watershed as a Partnership River.

An exceptional and largely undeveloped natural resource, the Eightmile River Watershed is home to diverse and rare animal and plant life, and provides an abundance of recreational opportunities. A broad group of citizens including local and state officials like myself, the Eightmile River Wild and Scenic Study Committee, area residents, and river users all support preserving the natural, historical, and cultural values of this river by designating it as Wild and Scenic.

I firmly believe that healthy rivers are valuable community assets. Healthy rivers enhance public health and safety, produce economic benefits, provide recreational opportunities, enhance quality of life, and promote community pride. The Eightmile is no exception and deserves to be granted status equal to the Farmington.

Senator Dodd and Congressman Courtney should be congratulated for having the vision to recognize the importance of protecting the Eightmile River Watershed. While similar legislation stalled last year in the Republican-controlled Congress, things ought to be better this time around if both Members make it a priority. Let’s hope so. A good river is hard to find.

04/02/07

Smart Growth

We are now at the point in the session where committee work is coming to an end and bills are being reported out. After going through a screening process the bills may be sent to other committees for consideration or to the floor of the House or Senate, depending upon from which part of the Assembly the started, for consideration there.

One topic of importance to me and, I believe, Glastonbury voters, that has received considerable attention in several committees is “Smart Growth.” I view “Smart Growth” as a form of holistic approach to preservation of open space and farmland, stopping sprawl as well as any number of environmental issues.

Part of the concept is to have new development take place along existing transportation corridors and to encourage “transit oriented development.” In addition to the planning component, this also requires that we address property tax reform so that areas of the state and towns that we want to preserve are not under development siege solely to increase the town grand list. While increased state funding for education is a step in the right direction for this, increased regional cooperation among councils of government is another approach to promote greater efficiency in delivering services.

Another component of smart growth is to provide the funds to the towns and state agencies to allow protection of open space and farmland. This includes funding for outright purchase of land, to buying development rights, to funding programs to help keep the land in agricultural use. If a farmer can make a reasonable return from use of land there is less pressure on its being sold for development. Until recently there was a sense that agriculture had no future in Connecticut because of the high cost of land and production. With increased interest in locally and organically grown produce and with the popularity of local farm stands and farms open to visitors, the economics for a viable agricultural component of our economy are looking better.

Because of the interrelated nature of “Smart Growth” to so many areas, it must be addressed in a coordinated fashion. Bills on the many components are making their way through the environment committee, planning and development committee and transportation committee to name a few. I am hopeful that many will find there way through the Assembly for signature by the Governor and I will be offering my support to make them happen.

03/07/07

REP. KEHOE NAMED LIAISON TO THE LEGISLATURE'S

State Rep. Tom Kehoe (D-Glastonbury) has been named liaison to the Legislature’s Transportation Committee by Speaker of the House James A. Amann to promote the development of bike paths throughout the state.

"Rep. Kehoe has helped develop a great bike path plan in his hometown of Glastonbury that with support of the state can also serve as a model for other communities," Amann said. "Bike paths not only provide enjoyment and exercise, but there is a growing interest in bicycling as a means to get around and Rep. Kehoe will work with the Transportation Committee to reflect that."

Glastonbury’s proposed bike path was first introduced when Rep. Kehoe was a member of the Town Council and it is now moving forward under the leadership of town administrators and a group of residents. Together they have developed a master plan that will bring a bicycle-friendly community, in which residents and visitors will enjoy safe bicycling for recreation and transportation.

Rep Kehoe said, “I am honored that Speaker Amann has embraced this plan and is interested in promoting the project across the state. Opening the door to new ideas and exploring creative ways for recreation and transportation is a major step in the right direction.”

“The first section of the off road portion of the Glastonbury bikeway has been identified and we are hoping the town will start constructing it in the near future, after required approvals are obtained to make this a reality,” Rep. Kehoe stated.

The plan seeks to find opportunities for multi-purpose bike paths and safer, more bicycle-friendly roads throughout Glastonbury. The plan also provides for communications, education, safety and enforcement, identifies standards and expectations, and provides information for grant application and other fundraising efforts.

“I welcome Rep. Kehoe’s input in the Transportation Committee and value his contribution, as we work together in exploring new ideas and possible bikeway expansion across the state. Glastonbury’s master plan is a very good model to follow,” said Rep. Antonio “Tony” Guerrera, Chair of the Transportation Committee.

02/07/07

From the Capitol

Last week I testified before the Environment Committee in support of House Bill #5606, an act concerning an appropriation for clean water projects, legislation I am co-sponsoring with Senator Mary Ann Handley and others.

This bill would appropriate necessary funding to the Clean Water Fund for the purpose of funding grants in accordance with the Clean Water provisions, allowing the state to get all wastewater projects back on schedule and on budget.

In order to decrease the municipal financial burden of wastewater treatment, and provide incentives to make progressive improvements in addition to maintaining compliance with water quality standards, the State, through the Clean Water Fund, has typically funded grants and subsidized 2% loan interest rates for municipal wastewater projects.

Glastonbury voters agreed to do our share by approving a referendum in November 2003 for a project budgeted then at $26.9 million.

However, significant reductions in Clean Water funding and state action to rescind previously authorized funds, have delayed projects throughout the state, including Glastonbury. This has increased Glastonbury’s project costs significantly.

The proposal is seeking one hundred million dollars to be appropriated to the Clean Water Fund, from the General Fund in each of the next two years.

Glastonbury residents have continued to sign up for the Connecticut Clean Energy Communities Program, a partnership between the Connecticut Clean Energy Fund and SmartPower. We are approaching 300 families signed up, which will entitle the town to a third 1 KW photovoltaic cell (solar panel) to be installed most probably at the high school. I would like to encourage more families to sign up. By doing so we contribute to reducing our dependence on imported oil, combat global warming and promote clean and renewal energy. You can get more information at www.gocleanenergy.com.

01/31/07

Clean Water Funding

KEHOE TESTIFIES FOR CLEAN WATER PROJECTS

State Rep. Tom Kehoe (D-Glastonbury) today testified before the Environment Committee in support of House Bill #5606, an act concerning an appropriation for clean water projects, legislation he is co-sponsoring.

Rep. Kehoe said, “This bill would appropriate necessary funding to the Clean Water Fund for the purpose of funding grants in accordance with the Clean Water provisions, allowing the state to get all wastewater projects back on schedule and on budget.”

According to Kehoe’s testimony, in order to decrease the municipal financial burden of wastewater treatment, and provide incentives to make progressive improvements in addition to maintain compliance with water quality standards, the State, through the Clean Water Fund, has typically funded grants and subsidized 2% loan interest rates for municipal wastewater projects.

“Significant reductions in Clean Water funding and state action to rescind previously authorized funds, have delayed projects throughout the state, including Glastonbury. This has increased Glastonbury’s project costs significantly,” Rep. Kehoe stated.

During his testimony, Kehoe also talked about the importance of the Connecticut River to Glastonbury and all the citizens of Connecticut, calling it a state treasure. He pointed out that substantial work has been done to clean it thus far, and to not continue that effort would be detrimental to the lives of the people of Connecticut, the river itself and the Long Island Sound.

The proposal is seeking one hundred million dollars be appropriated to the Clean Water Fund, from the General Fund.

Tom Kehoe represents the 31st Assembly District in Glastonbury. He serves on the Energy and Technology; Executive and Legislative Nominations; and Finance and Bonding Committees.

01/25/07

From the Capitol Report

After receiving committee appointments, the next action item for legislators was to submit their proposed bills. All bills for 2007 had to be submitted by January 12th. This is because of the time it takes for bills to be drafted and referred to committees where they are considered and if not killed, referred out to the house and senate for further debate and voting. Few bills make it through the process without amendments or being subsumed into other bills.
I submitted several energy bills including some focused on conservation and moving us away from dependence on imported oil. Energy conservation is the best way we can reduce our electric bills and reduce the number of new “peaking” power plants that we will need. Among the bills I submitted was one requiring utilities to publish, in advance, the per hour cost of electricity and to allow consumers to pay a per hour rate - at their option. (We now pay a blended rate for our electricity.) Empowering the consumer to buy power at any given hour, or not, is one of the best ways to control the cost of our electricity. Many commercial users of electricity have “smart meters” with which they can program their power use. I think if consumers knew that the real cost of power fluctuates from less than .08 cents per kilowatt hour to .24 cents per kilowatt hours or more, many would change the time they run dish washers, clothes dryers, air conditioners and pool pumps. That simple change in behavior might lessen the need for our power supplier to purchase “peaking power”, the most expensive electricity.
Locally, I continue to work with Frank Forest of the VFW in supporting our troops in Iraq and Afghanistan. Frank works tirelessly to make sure that every month our troops receive packages from home. This past weekend’s efforts involved sending scores of boxes of Girl Scout cookies and hand written Valentine cards to the troops. We made sure a large carton went to Tim Coon’s unit, north of Baghdad. Tim was able to be home for the holidays and reported that the packages, letters and cards are a real morale booster. It was very gratifying to see more than 50 adults, girl scouts, brownies and other children working Sunday afternoon. Next month's effort will be to focused on sending more Girl Scout cookies, so consider donating or joining us. Keep an eye open for Frank’s next effort.

01/24/07

ENERGY, HEALTHCARE, PROPERTY TAXES TOP HOUSE DEMOCRATS’ AGENDA

January 24, 2007 Contact: Marta Collazo
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 860-240-8637

ENERGY, HEALTHCARE, PROPERTY TAXES TOP HOUSE DEMOCRATS’ AGENDA

State Rep. Tom Kehoe (D-Glastonbury) joined Speaker of the House Jim Amann (D-Milford) and House Majority Leader Christopher G. Donovan (D-Meriden) at the unveiling of the House Democratic caucus agenda for the 2007 legislative session. The agenda, Laying a Foundation for Connecticut’s Future, includes developing a long term energy policy, creating an affordable healthcare system for all residents and providing further property tax relief.

Rep. Kehoe said, “I applaud leadership for bringing forward these issues and working to find positive solutions that will make a big difference in the people we serve. These priorities are the same concerns that my constituents have brought to me and I am looking forward to working with my colleagues to get them addressed.”

Economic Development will be encouraged through smart growth initiatives and additional investment in the state’s transportation infrastructure.

“I am very pleased to be in a position to support initiatives that will make a positive impact in the overall economic growth of the state, no just temporarily, but long-term.” Rep. Kehoe stated.

The 2007 session of the Connecticut General Assembly convened January 3 and committees are now beginning to shape legislation that will reflect the Democrats’ goals.

Tom Kehoe represents the 31st Assembly District in Glastonbury. He serves on the Energy and Technology; Executive and Legislative Nominations; and Finance and Bonding Committees.

01/11/07

News From the Capitol

This is my first, of what I hope will be many, opportunities over the next two years to keep you informed of what is going on at the Capitol.
Firstly, I would like to thank Sonny Googins for her many years of service to the town both on the town council and for the last twelve years in the Assembly and also to thank her for the kindness she has shown me since the election in providing information and insights on the workings of the Capitol and for attending the open session of the House last week in which we were sworn into office.
A day before the start of the session each of the representatives learned of their committee appointments from the Speaker of the House. I was appointed to the Finance, Revenue and Bonding Committee, the Energy and Technology Committee and the Executive and Legislative Nominations Committee.
The Energy and Technology Committee is expected to be very busy this session. It has cognizance of all matters relating to the Department of Public Utility Control and energy planning and activities. I look forward to playing an active role on this committee in working for legislation that will address Connecticut’s high energy costs as well as pushing for the use of alternative energy and clean and renewal fuels.
I look forward to hearing from you as the session progresses. I can be reached at the Capitol at 860 240 8387 or you can email me at kehoetj@yahoo.com

11/08/06

Thank you to the voters of Glastonbury

I want to thank the voters of the 31st district of Glastonbury for their vote yesterday. I look forward to serving you as your representative in Hartford. I intend to work hard on the issues we have discussed as important for Glastonbury. Thank you again for your support
Tom

10/24/06

Thank you for your help collection items for the troops

Thank you to all who participated in this Saturday's Run for the Troops, contributed items to send to them and generously gave to the collection to defray the cost of mailing. Thanks also to Pig Iron Sports and Bicycles East for participating as collection places.

We collected enough items to fill about 15 large boxes. As requested, items being sent included sheets, mattress covers, pillows, towels, socks, shaving supplies and toiletries, baseball gear, phone cards, snacks and holiday cards for the troops to send home.

We also collected $1,000, including $100 donated by the Glastonbury Democratic Town Committee which will be used to defray the cost of mailing the boxes. Frank Forest of the VFW said that it costs about $600 for each months mailings, so this will be a big help.

As I said earlier, no matter what you opinion of the war is, we must always support those who have volunteered in the service of our country.
I am pleased we could do something this weekend to make it even a little more bearable for them. Thanks again to all who participated.

Next month, the VFW effort will be to send cookies to the troops for the upcoming holidays.

10/21/06

Collecting for the Troops

This Saturday we are helping the local VFW unit collect items to send to the troops in Iraq and Afghanistan and money to defray the cost of mailing. No matter what your position is on the war, one thing, that is certain for me, is that we must never let that interfere with our support for our sons, daughters, wives, husbands, relatives and friends who are there.

Please join us at Main Street and Hebron Avenue at 9 a.m. for a 5K run along Main Street in their honor, following which we will collect item to send to them and money to defray the cost of mailing. Items can also be dropped off all day at Pig Iron Sports at 2277 Main Street and at Bicycles East at 2249 New London Turnpike. Both are open from 10 to 5.

Items being collected this month include:
Bedding, towels, rubber mattress covers (sand fleas are an issue), blank holiday cards (for soldiers to send), baseball equipment, DVD’s, hard candy, snacks, power bars, vacuum packaged tuna, Slim Jims, eyeglass cleaner, phone cards, razors, shaving cream, posters, and small toys (beanie babies, crayons, school supplies) for soldiers to distribute to small children.

For more information please contact:
Shaun O’Rourke (860) 659-1466 email: shauno@cox.net
Peggy Kehoe (860) 633-2229 email: pkehoe@discover-re.com

10/18/06

Sierra Club Endorses Thomas Kehoe for State Representative

The Connecticut chapter of the Sierra Club, with 11,000 members announced its support for Thomas Kehoe, candidate for election to the state House in the 31st District. Please click on the right side for a copy of the full endorsement which notes that "the endorsement is a reflection of the candidate's commitment to supporting environmental priorities." "The endorsement comes after an intensive review of the candidate's stated positions as reflected in responses to the Candidate Questionnaire and record of environmental concern." "Endorsements must be ratified by both the state Political Committee and the state Executive Committee." Founded in 1892, the Sierra Club is the oldest and largest environmental advocacy group in the nation with 750,000 members nationwide.

10/08/06

Tom Kehoe runs Steamtown Marathon, Scranton PA

Tom Kehoe and Shaun O'Rourke joined two other runners of the Glastonbury Extreme Runners Group, Claudia Kefor and Karen Howard in the 11th running of the Steamtown Marathon in Scranton, PA , October 8, 2006. For Kehoe who is the Democratic candidate for the 31 assembly district of the state house of representatives, it was his third marathon, while for O'Rouke, a life long Glastonbury resident, it was his eight. Claudia Kefor qualified for the Boston Marathon with a time of 3:50 and Karen Howard of Wallingford had one of her best running times for a marathon. The Steamtown Marathon is a point to point race, with the race starting in Forest City, PA and passing though six Pennsylvania towns on the way to the finish line in down town Scranton. Kehoe had a pleasant surprise when, at mile eight, he passed a home in Carbondale with a "Vote for Tom Kehoe for State Representative" sign on their front lawn. While Glastonbury candidates for local elections don't use lawn signs, they do in Carbondale. Turns out running mate Karen Howard had relatives in the PA town and they put the sign out. Kehoe said he laughed for the next mile after seeing the sign.

10/05/06

Kehoe receives endorsement from Senator Christopher Dodd

Click on link to the right to read endorsement from Senator Dodd!!!

10/02/06

Kehoe Wins Endorsement of AFT Connecticut and ARTC

Tom Kehoe, Democratic candidate for the 31st House District in Glastonbury, received the endorsement of AFT Connecticut, a union representing over 25,000 teachers, educational paraprofessionals, higher education faculty and staff and health care personnel, among other professions, in both the private and public sector.

Kehoe is committed to maintaining quality public education from pre-K through higher education and ensuring safe conditions for all health care workers.

“Quality public education for our children is one of the most important investments we can make as a community and state,” says Kehoe. All of his children have benefited from the Glastonbury public school system.

Tom Kehoe also received the endorsement of the 10,000-member Association of Retired Teachers of Connecticut. Kehoe’s longstanding commitment to public education in Glastonbury and Connecticut includes attracting and maintaining quality teachers to our schools. “Teachers in our schools have the right to know that after committing their careers to our children, their retirement pension and health insurance will be there for them,” says Kehoe.

For further information on Kehoe's campaign and other endorsements, please go to www.tomkehoe.com.

09/30/06

Connecticut River Clean Up Day

On Saturday, I participated with other volunteers in the from source to sound Connecticut River Clean up day. Coincidentally, that day another group of volunteers were marking storm drains around Glastonbury with a decal reminding folks that what goes in these drains ends up in the river. The goal of this group is to install markers on all 5000 plus catch basins in town. Considering the number of coffee cups and plastic bottles retrieved along the shore line, this may make a big difference in helping to keep the river clean.

Our group of about 8 people from Glastonbury and Rocky Hill covered about a quarter mile north and south of the ferry landing and filled up 15 large plastic bags of trash of all sorts. Also retrieved were several lawn chairs and a tire and rim. This is a great event to get people involved with the river and reminding everyone to help keep this great state treasure clean.

09/18/06

NARAL Pro-Choice CT Endorsement

Tom Kehoe, Democratic candidate for the 31st House District, received the endorsement of NARAL Pro-Choice Connecticut at its annual dinner Friday. NARAL Pro-Choice Connecticut is the only organization in the state dedicated to evaluating candidates solely on their position regarding women's reproductive rights. Its endorsement is given only to those candidates who are deemed by NARAL's Political Action Committee to be 100 percent pro-choice.

Kehoe is committed to family planning and women's reproductive freedom, including equitable and timely access to emergency contraception for rape victims. Kehoe’s position is straightforward – “ a decision regarding a woman's reproductive health are a matter of privacy between a woman and her doctor and not something into which the government should intrude,” Kehoe said.

"It is degrading when the government suggests it knows what is best for a woman's health and for her family by interfering in her decision-making," said Kehoe.

For further information on Kehoe's campaign and other endorsements, please go to www.tomkehoe.com.

08/14/06

A night with Stephen Stills

Glastonbury Councilman Tom Kehoe, a candidate for State Representative, 31st Assembly District, was among a group of local Democrats who met with singer songwriter Stephen Stills last night at Cheney Hall. Stills had taken time out from the Crosby, Stills, Nash and Young national tour to travel down from Boston for the evening to support local Democratic congressional candidates Joe Courtney in the 2nd CD and Chris Murphy in the 5th CD and to encourage other Democratic candidates.

Stills reminded the gathering that it seemed reminiscent of the 1970s again with skyrocketing oil prices and an unpopular war consuming our most precious resources, our sons, daughters, wives and husbands that make up our armed forces. That message really hits home with Kehoe since his son Matt has just returned from the Gulf.

Tom Kehoe has been an outspoken supporter of moving our economy away from oil to clean domestic, and renewal fuels to lessen the country's dependency on foreign oil. Stills made the point that the buses which move their tour group all burn bio-diesel. With Kehoe's support and encouragement, the Glastonbury school buses and town trucks will be using this same fuel.

07/27/06

Endorsement!

Tom Kehoe receives the endorsement of CT PACE, the political action committee of the National Association of Social Workers, Connecticut Chapter, that "our trustees met last evening and voted to endorse your candidacy in the 31st House District."

05/18/06

Glastonbury Democratic Town Committee Nominates Kehoe

Press Release

The Glastonbury Democratic Town Committee is delighted to announce its candidate for the State Legislature. We were fortunate to have many qualified candidates to present to the committee for review. The final Slate Committee selection will represent the Town of Glastonbury very well.

The Slate Committee presented the name of Thomas J. Kehoe to the Town Committee on Thursday, May 18, at Hebron Avenue Elementary School Cafeteria. He was unanimously selected by the Town Committee Caucus.

Thomas J. Kehoe for the 31st Assembly District. Tom is a person who is admired by a bipartisan constituency. He is genuine, professional and proactive. He is an attorney and a businessman with considerable experience around the world and in Connecticut. Tom understands the issues significant to Glastonbury and his professional experience will allow him to make a real difference in the General Assembly immediately. As a member of the majority party, Tom will have an advantage in working with other legislators and he has always had an ability to work in bipartisan situations. He has an outstanding record of accomplishment as a Glastonbury Town Council member, strongly supporting education, land conservation and preservation, and humanitarian issues. His extensive service to the Glastonbury Community includes public service, coaching, and Land-Heritage Coalition initiatives among other things. Tom Kehoe will make an enormous difference for the Glastonbury community as the representative of the 31st Assembly District.

Pro Environment say Gerhard and Duffy Schade in urging voters to please join them and vote for Tom

Glastonbury Citizen September 18, 2008 Gerhard and Duffy Schade support Tom for reelection.