Our state Senate debate series kicks off next Thursday at the Kelly Magnet Middle School, 25 Mahan Drive, Norwich. It will feature the candidates competing in the 19th District — Democratic Sen. Cathy A. Osten and her Republican challenger, Mark Lounsbury.

The following Monday, Oct. 15, the meeting room at the Charter Oak Credit Union headquarters, 1055 Hartford Turnpike (Route 85), Waterford, will host the 20th District debate. Participating will be incumbent Republican Sen. Paul Formica and Democrat Martha Marx.

On Oct. 17, Fitch High School, 101 Groton Long Point Road, Groton, will host the 18th District debate, featuring incumbent Republican Sen. Heather Somers and Democrat Robert Statchen.

Our series concludes Oct. 25 at Old Saybrook High School, 1111 Boston Post Road, when Democrat Norm Needleman will face Republican Melissa H. Ziobron. The two are competing for the open 33rd District seat.

The hourlong debates begin at 7 p.m. and will be live streamed on theday.com. The Day and the Chamber of Commerce of Eastern Connecticut are sponsoring the debates with help from the League of Women Voters of Southeastern Connecticut.