| |
|
|
Fall is officially here, and the crisp, cool nights are starting to become more frequent. It's just about "sweater weather" here in the 57th District and across the state!
Have you driven by Hall Memorial Library and wondered what was happening on the Main Street side of the building? Thanks to state bonding I secured a few years ago, the library will have a reading garden. I'm so happy to see this project come to fruition!
On September 30, we held a somber event at the Legislative Office Building to recognize "Military Suicide Awareness and Remembrance Day." Nationwide, more than 140,000 veterans have died by suicide between 2001-2022, with 945 service members from Connecticut included in that count. You can read more about the importance of recognizing that day and what we can do to help our veterans facing struggles and challenges in this e-newsletter.
Recently, Governor Lamont held a ceremonial bill-signing for our CT HERO Act. It's been a journey to get to the finish line, and I'm so happy it has become law.
I hope you'll take some time to read through my newsletter - I have a lot of information to share with you.
Jaime |
|
|
In this newsletter, you'll find:
- Moving Beyond Conference 2026
- In the News
- Capitol Updates
- Early Voting Starts October 20
- Veterans Updates
- Ellington Scarecrow Contest
- Socktober Collection Sites in Vernon and Ellington
- East Windsor Social Services Seeks Neighbors & Businesses to Sponsor a Child for the Holiday
- DRS Alerts Taxpayers to a New Impersonation Scam
- And More!
|
|
|
3RD ANNUAL MOVING BEYOND CONFERENCE
|
|
|
The third Moving Beyond Implications conference will be on Thursday, January 15, 2026, at 12 p.m. (with lunch at 11:30 a.m.) The networking reception will end at 6 p.m. Organizers (including myself) hope to make it our biggest and best year. Last year, there were over 150 attendees, 24 presentations, and over 20 briefs.
All members of the Connecticut General Assembly are invited to attend, and leadership from the Governor’s Office, General Assembly, and the many offices that implement Connecticut’s policies and programs will also be invited.
If you're interested in presenting, the deadline to submit an abstract is by November 3 at 12 p.m. EST. Presenters will be notified of selection by November 25.
For more information, click HERE. |
|
Looking back at the last session, there was more bipartisanship than you might expect. Out of hundreds of votes cast, 376 - or 99% - were with bipartisan coalitions. Both parties found common ground to fund schools, protect veterans, support working families, and improve government accountability. For me personally, in the few partisan, divisive votes, I voted with the GOP when it matched district priorities, and with the Democratic majority when it matched district interests.
You can read more about it in the October edition of North Central News by clicking HERE or by clicking the graphic below. |
|
| Earlier this month, I submitted an opinion piece to CT Viewpoints through the CT Mirror. The work that PURA's Marissa Gillett did for the ratepayers of Connecticut was phenomenal. But the constant criticism and personal attacks would make anyone question the work they do. Connecticut has lost a respected public servant. Read more in the CT Mirror HERE or click the graphic below. |
|
On October 9, the CT Siting Council held a hearing on Docket No. 492A - a motion to reopen and modify an application filed by Gravel Pit Solar. I submitted testimony in opposition due to the impacts it will cause in the Town of East Windsor.
Among the reasons I cited for not reopening the case - the economic burden on the town, including a diminished tax base, the loss of farmland, and the agricultural harm, safety issues, including the brush fire on the site, attributed to landscaping equipment; and the over-abundance of solar fields located in East Windsor. The town has done more than enough to support the state's renewable energy goals.
The comment period remains open for 30 days. If you would like to submit comments on the CT Siting Council on Docket No. 492A, you can do so by emailing siting.council@ct.gov and referencing the docket number in the subject line.
You can watch my testimony below and read my full testimony HERE. |
|
In a year when the CT House of Representatives considered some of the most consequential bills in decades, I'm proud to report I cast a vote on every single measure—a 100% voting record. That figure is more than just attendance; it reflects a philosophy of engagement. The people of Ellington, East Windsor, and Vernon sent me to Hartford to represent them on every issue, not just the ones that make headlines.
Considering bills in the House is one of the reasons you elected me as your state representative. I will continue to serve and advocate for you at the State Capitol. |
|
| A few legislative sessions ago, I was able to secure bonding for the Town of Ellington to create the Hall Memorial Library Reading Garden. If you've driven by the library, you've seen the work to make this reading garden a reality. The reading garden will be located on the Main Street side of the library. |
|
We honor them. We thank them. We will never forget them.
On September 24, new plaques were unveiled honoring the 326 Connecticut soldiers, sailors, marines, and airmen who gave their lives during the Korean War. This year marks the 75th Anniversary of the start of the Korean War. On June 25, 1950, North Korean forces launched a surprise invasion of South Korea. The attack aimed to unify the Korean Peninsula under communist rule. The invasion prompted a swift response from the United Nations, led mostly by the United States.
As House Chair of the Veterans' and Military Affairs Committee, I was honored to speak at the unveiling.
The plaques - located at the Veterans' Memorial between the Legislative Office Building and State Capitol - will serve as a lasting remembrance to those who we lost from Connecticut.
Thank you to everyone who helped make this possible, including American Legion members, veterans and their families, and donors. |
|
I had the honor - albeit somber - of attending a press conference recognizing September 30th as "Military Suicide Awareness and Remembrance Day."
Joined by members of the Veterans' and Military Affairs Committee, representatives from the Connecticut Department of Veterans' Affairs, military members, and their families, Representative Rebecca Martinez, a behavioral health nurse by trade, read a proclamation by Governor Ned Lamont, recognizing the day. Rep. Martinez noted, "Recognizing this day will help patients feel seen, open doors to conversations that were once shut, and remind every veteran that healing is not weakness – it is courage."
Data from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs notes Connecticut has lost 945 service members to suicide since 2001. Thirty-four veterans in the state were lost to suicide in 2022, the most recent year that statistics are published.
Nationwide, more than 140,000 veterans have died by suicide between 2001-2022. Additional statistics on veteran suicide can be found HERE.
Every statistic is a life – it’s a human being who has connections with their community, and a family that’s left grieving. Our veterans stood watch for us, and it’s our responsibility to build a system of care that’s accessible, timely, and compassionate. Our job is to help our brave men and women to find the help they need – there’s no wrong door to enter through.
The event featured family and friends of Command Sergeant Major Gary Sirois, a veteran who was lost in 2023 due to suicide. The family created "The Drive On Foundation," which focuses on suicide prevention and providing mental health services to veterans.
“His passing brought to the forefront the urgent need to support the mental health & well-being of those who serve. Honoring my father’s memory allows us to celebrate his service, acknowledge the significance of this loss, and connect with other families who share this difficult journey," said daughter Samantha Sirois Pawloski. "By raising awareness, we not only preserve the memory of those we have lost but also help protect and support those who are still with us.” |
|
This Hispanic Heritage Month, Connecticut proudly honors the legacy of the 65th Infantry Regiment, also known as The Borinqueneers. These brave Puerto Rican soldiers served our nation with courage and distinction.
The new commemorative license plate ensures their sacrifice is remembered on every road across our state. |
|
| I joined many of my colleagues from Hartford on a tour of the Amazon facility in Windsor. What a setup they have! The place is huge, and the technology is mind-boggling. |
|
|
EARLY VOTING STARTS OCTOBER 20
|
|
|
|
Early voting starts October 20 and ends November 2. Voting locations are:
- East Windsor: Town Annex, 25 School Street, Warehouse Point, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., with extended hours, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., on October 28 and 30.
- Ellington: Town Hall Annex, 57 Main Street, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., with extended hours, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., on October 28 and 30.
- Vernon: Registrar of Voters, 375 Hartford Turnpike, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., with extended hours, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., on October 28 and 30.
Election Day voting on November 4 will be at your regular polling stations.
If you need an absentee ballot, click HERE for more information. You can also fill out an absentee ballot application at the town clerk's office.
|
|
|
On September 29 at the VFW Post 5095 in East Hampton, we celebrated a ceremonial bill-signing of the CT HERO Act with Governor Lamont - a major step forward for Connecticut’s veterans and military families. The HERO Act (HB 6442/PA 25-15) came through as a bipartisan effort and is a comprehensive package of legislation that reflects collaboration, listening, and a deep, collective respect for those who wore the uniform and served our country.
Some of the bill's components:
- Designates November as Veterans’ Month to reflect on & celebrate their military service
- Waives fees for the Purple Heart license plate, ensuring accessibility for those who have earned one of our nation’s highest military honors
- Creates two new commemorative plates - one honoring women veterans and another recognizing the Borinqueneers - providing long-lasting public recognition of their historic contributions
- Free license renewals for veterans
- The Department of Veterans Affairs will evaluate how to improve and address shortcomings in available dental services for veterans
- Accelerates nursing home placement for service-connected veterans
- Improve school transitions for military families with children requiring special education services
WTNH 8 attended the bill-signing in East Hampton, and you can watch the video and read more about the bill HERE.
|
|
Thank you to everyone who came out to Hall Memorial Library in Ellington on September 18 for the Veterans Listening Session. We know we have more work to do on veterans' dental and mental health services. Former military members are being recruited to go to school to become mental healthcare providers for veterans.
Thank you to John, Daniel, Alison, Ken, and Emily for taking part in the panel. |
|
On September 19, the Connecticut Department of Veterans Affairs and collaborators at Easterseals Veterans Rally Point, University of Bridgeport, Veterans Strong Community Center, the Southington Armory, the City of Danbury, UConn Stamford, and the City of Stamford hosted Veterans Stand Down 2025 across six statewide locations.
Throughout the state, veterans and their families were connected with vital resources, services, and support - from healthcare and housing to education, legal aid, and employment opportunities.
I had the chance to speak at the Rocky Hill press conference held as the Stand Down started. I even had the chance to see former 57th District State Representative Ted Graziani! |
|
Would you like to honor an East Windsor veteran with a Hometown Hero banner? The East Windsor Arts and Culture Committee and the East Windsor Veterans Commission are hoping to initiate a "Hometown Hero Banner Program" as a living tribute for East Windsor to honor past and present members of the Armed Forces.
If you are interested in nominating an East Windsor veteran for a Hometown Heroes banner, and/or sponsoring a banner, please email ewartsandculture@gmail.com
For more information about the project, click HERE. |
|
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. According to the American Cancer Society, breast cancer is the most common cancer in women in the United States, except for skin cancers. It accounts for about 30% (or 1 in 3) of all new female cancers each year. One in eight women will develop breast cancer in their lifetime. Men can also receive a breast cancer diagnosis, but the odds are much lower for men - it's about 100 times less common in men than it is in women, according to Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center in New York.
There are more than 4 million breast cancer survivors in the United States.
Together through education, outreach, community events, and solidarity, we can shine a light on breast health and empower survivors, fighters, caregivers, and families.
It’s a time to remind our loved ones about the importance of early detection and regular screenings. |
|
October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month. Survivors deserve systems that believe them and policies that protect them. I remain committed to preventing abuse, ensuring accountability, and prioritizing survivor-centered support.
If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, help is available. Organizations like CTSafeConnect offer free, confidential support 24/7/365.
You are not alone.
888-774-2900
ctsafeconnect.org |
|
|
This month is also National Disability Employment Awareness Month. The Connecticut Department of Aging and Disability Services plays a crucial role in helping individuals with disabilities find, maintain, and advance in meaningful employment. The department helps ensure everyone has the opportunity to thrive in the workplace. Assistance for job seekers with disabilities is available virtually and in person.
Please see the links to services below:
As we celebrate this month, let’s continue working together to build a more inclusive and equitable future for all.
|
|
From the Town of Ellington: Scarecrow Contest sign-ups are LIVE and ready to go! The contest is one of two seasonal events that the Ellington Beautification Committee is responsible for running annually. Residents, community groups, schools, and businesses all find ways to participate in creative and festive ways!
You can sign up for the contest HERE. Voting runs from October 20-28. Displays must be removed by November 2. |
|
Vernon Public Schools is participating in Socktober! Families can send donations of new socks to school to drop in a collection bin. Collection runs until October 23.
Socktober is in its 10th year, thanks to now-RHS senior Tommy Glinski. He started this journey when he was in third grade, after hearing the Kid President talk about Socktober. |
|
|
Other collection sites for Socktober include:
- Vernon Town Hall
- Vernon Police Department
- West Main Barbershop (Rockville)
- Luann's locations in Ellington (2) and Stafford (new socks and undergarments)
- Beyond Dance (Vernon)
- Earthlight Technologies (Ellington)
|
|
| Cornerstone's "Free Halloween Costume Boutique" will take place on October 17, 18, and 25. More information below! |
|
| If you're eligible to give blood, there's a blood drive coming up in East Windsor on October 16! It will be held at the East Windsor Annex from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. All blood types are needed, especially type O. Book an appointment HERE. |
|
Tickets are SOLD OUT for the one-day event at Ellington Center Cemetery. Hosted by the Ellington Historical Society, Ellington Community Theatre, in partnership with the Ellington High School Opening Knight Players and Ellington Middle School Drama Troupe, this event will feature actors portraying Ellington's townspeople from the 1700s and 1800s, giving attendees a chance to learn more about the people who helped shape the town.
The event starts with the first tour at 3 p.m., with a total of five tours. The rain date is October 19. |
|
| A message from East Windsor Social Services: We are looking for loyal neighbors and local businesses for donations to support Sponsor A Child for the Holiday program. If interested, please contact East Windsor Social Services at 860-623-2430 or click HERE or on the graphic below to obtain the PDF copy of the sponsor sheet. |
|
| East Windsor Social Services and Five Corner Cupboard Food Pantry are teaming up to make sure local families have a happy holiday season. If you can help, please refer to the flyer below for more information. |
|
|
Congratulations to the Town of Vernon for receiving gold certification and being recognized as a climate leader by Sustainable CT. Vernon was gold-certified on May 21 with 980 points. Among the areas, the town earned points:
- Participate in Equity Training
- Develop and Adopt a Statement on Equity
- Support Redevelopment of Brownfield Sites
- Create a Watershed Management Plan
- Develop an Open Space Plan
- Create a Natural Resource and Wildlife Inventory
- Manage for Drought and Municipal Water Use
- Facilitate Invasive Species Education and Management
- Enhance Pollinator Pathways
- Integrate Sustainability into a Plan of Conservation and Development
- Adapt Permitting Process to Promote Sustainable Development
- Install Efficient Exterior Lighting
You can read the full certification report for Vernon, click HERE.
|
|
| Vernon was also recognized as a Sustainable CT 2025 Climate Leader. The designation celebrates municipalities that are reducing harmful greenhouse gas emissions and preparing their communities for the impacts of climate change, while saving money, improving public health, and building community. The designation is required for gold-certified status. |
|
The East Windsor Police Department congratulates ACO Rebecca Wentworth for receiving the Gary Wilson Memorial Award.
She was chosen by her peers at the Connecticut Municipal Animal Control Officers Association's Annual Conference and recognized for her work and dedication to the field. ACO Wentworth has been an invaluable asset to the EWPD team since joining just over a year ago. |
|
Congratulations to retired Rockville High School baseball coach Art Wheelock for his induction into the Connecticut High School Coaches Association Hall of Fame. Wheelock retired after the 2013 baseball season after 41 years, with 36 of those years at the varsity level.
His official induction into the Connecticut High School Coaches Association (CHSCA) Hall of Fame during halftime of the UConn football game on October 4.
He has been honored as the state coach of the year and was a finalist for national coach of the year for baseball. He also coached football for 32 years and girls' basketball for 15 years. He also taught physical education at Rockville High School.
Graphic courtesy of Town of Vernon/Rockville High School. |
|
| From the Ellington Historical Society: Did you know you can book a private tour of the Nellie McKnight Museum? Gather four or more people, and it can be opened up for you. Check out the 2025 History of Ellington Sports exhibit, the quaint 1812 house, farm exhibit, and the newly stocked mercantile. Contact: info@ellingtonhistsoc.org. |
|
The Connecticut Department of Revenue Services (DRS) is alerting taxpayers to a new scam where scammers are impersonating the DRS by sending fraudulent text messages. The texts fraudulently claim that you are owed a tax refund from the DRS and require you to provide banking and other information in order to receive the refund.
The DRS will NEVER send taxpayers a text message or seek to obtain information from taxpayers via text. Anyone who has information regarding a tax-related scam is urged to contact DRS by completing a referral form on the agency’s website.
Taxpayers with questions are encouraged to reach out to DRS by telephone at 860-297-5962, Monday through Friday, between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. or by email at DRS@ct.gov. |
|
|
|
| |
|
