Here’s Why Gary Turco Was Shouted Out As a Newington Local Hero

NEWINGTON, CT — When times are tough, heroes emerge. We all know someone who's making a difference right now as we live through unprecedented and changing times.

Here at Patch, we've launched an initiative to help recognize these heroes making a difference in their communities.

We’re working to let all your neighbors know about these outstanding people and their stories.

This submission comes from Gia Pascarelli who nominated Gary Turco of Newington. Pascarelli recently described how she came into contact with Turco and why she chose him.

Local hero’s full name

Gary Turco

Local hero’s home state

Connecticut

Local hero’s Patch

Newington

How do you know the local hero?

He's our State Representative

What does the local hero do?

State representative

Why do you believe the local hero should be recognized or honored?

I had never ever contacted a politician in my life! But when the pandemic started and my husband was laid off, I needed help getting through to the completely overwhelmed Department of Labor.

Gary was so helpful and responsive; we would not have ever gotten the UI benefits we sorely needed.

That was just the beginning.

As a member of the state House and our community Gary has championed — and succeeded with actual legislation — women's rights and health (laws protecting choice and guaranteeing coverage for cancer screenings), seniors (eliminating taxes on SS benefits now....with more to come), families with children (benefits to families). Gary is not just an accessible, responsive public servant. He's a kind and present member of our community who listens, responds and acts. He's done more than just bring $7 million in funding to our hometown. He's made it kinder place with his support and smile.

What's one thing you want everyone to know about the local hero?

He is a community advocate

Thank you for all you do, Gary Turco!

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Know someone making a difference in town? Nominate them as a local hero here.