Federal Grant Awarded to Bristol, Access Health CT Broker Academy, and CT History Day Judges Needed

February 20, 2026

I hope this email finds you and your family well. We are hard at work at the Capitol, with daily committee meetings underway and another session day coming up next week. These long days are focused on reviewing legislation, hearing testimony, and working collaboratively to address the issues that matter most to our community.

There is plenty to get to in the email below, so make sure to keep scrolling for more on:

  • $3.15 million federal grant awarded to the city of Bristol
  • Access Health CT: The Broker Academy
  • CT History Day Judges Needed
  • Community Events

As always, if you have any questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to reach out to my office at any time.

Earlier this week, I was proud to participate in a check presentation as the city of Bristol was awarded a $3.15 million federal grant secured by Congressman John Larson.

This critical investment will support the development of a new, state-of-the-art, two-story active shooter training facility, along with a 50-yard indoor police firing range and a Candidate Physical Agility Test (CPAT) Center. The facility will provide comprehensive training and mentoring opportunities for the Bristol Police Department, the Bristol Fire Department, and first responders from across the Northeast, strengthening regional preparedness and public safety.

Designed to be the first facility of its kind in New England focused on active shooter preparedness, the center will provide modern, hands-on training opportunities for first responders. By creating realistic training scenarios, this investment will better equip our police officers and firefighters with the skills and coordination necessary to respond effectively in emergency situations and protect the residents of Bristol.

Access Health CT is committed to reducing health disparities across Connecticut. To support this mission, a free Broker Academy training program is being offered to empower community members and organizations to drive positive change. Participants will receive comprehensive training, have their exam fees covered, and be paired with a mentor, ensuring support at every step of the journey.

Minimum requirements to apply:

  • 18 years or older
  • High school diploma or GED
  • 1-3 recommendation letters Community service experience
  • Preference will be given to applicants who reside or work in underserved areas

Click here for more information and to sign up for notifications.

For questions, email  AHCT.BrokerAcademy@ct.gov

Click here to sign up for a virtual Broker Academy Info Session, multiple dates available.

A program called Connecticut History Day is looking for enthusiastic volunteers to serve as judges at one of its five Regional Contests. Judges play a crucial role in encouraging students as they share their historical research and creative work. Click here to learn more and sign up to judge at a regional contest.

Judges have the opportunity to meet students, evaluate and rank projects, and provide meaningful, constructive feedback to every participant. No prior judging experience is necessary, judges receive pre-contest training and clear materials to review in advance.

Contest day judging runs from 8:00 a.m. until the early afternoon with coffee, snacks, and lunch provided. Website and paper judges meet with students on contest day, but they review projects in the week prior to the event. Documentary, performance, and exhibit judges both view the project and meet with the students at the contest.

A Black History Celebration will be taking place on Tuesday, February 24 at 10:00 a.m. at the Bristol Public Library (5 High Street).

Click here to register.

Click here for more information on the food drive and to see what foods are in high demand.

The Bristol Bazaar is home to over 75 local makers, unique gifts, creative workshops, and Yellow King Bristol.

Shop small, support local and explore thousands of handmade treasures in our one-of-a-kind indoor market space. Open 6 days a week (67 Race Street), click here for more information.