Updates from Rep. Chris Poulos for May 15

May 15, 2026

 
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Dear Neighbor,

I recently visited Southington High School and made surprise classroom visits, where I presented the Valedictorian, Salutatorian, and Essayist with official state citations recognizing their academic achievement.

Joined by Principal Richard Aroian and members of his team, I was honored to continue the tradition of celebrating Southington’s top trio, alongside their classmates (and the Salutatorian's father who is his teacher), for their academic excellence and contributions to the school community.  

Valedictorian Ethan Hoffman exemplifies a deep commitment to leadership, service, and community impact, qualities that will serve him well at Cornell University next year.

Salutatorian Andrew Niro demonstrates resilience, humility, kindness, and dedication both inside and outside the classroom, skills he will carry to the University of Connecticut in the fall.

Essayist David Chmura thrives on challenge and discovery in STEM, strengths that will support his success at Northeastern University, where he plans to major in Mechanical Engineering and Computer Science.

Congratulations to the class of 2026, and thank you to all teachers for their commitment to our students and making their success possible.

Please continue reading below for other noteworthy items, and thanks as always for taking the time to read them!
 

Courts Open, Competition On!

There was excitement in the air as organizers cut the ribbon and officially opened the new outdoor pickleball courts at the Calendar House. It was a privilege to celebrate the debut of this new space for recreation and community connection.

Moments later, players came onto the courts and competed in the first matches! It was great to see so many people having a ​fun time moving around in the sun. One of the highlights was teaming up with Rep. Jane Garibay, Chair of the Aging Committee, against Sen. Rob Sampson and Town Manager Alex Ricciardone.

Funded by a grant secured in 2024, this new addition expands opportunities for members to stay active, socialize, and enjoy the outdoors. This is another excellent example of Calendar House’s motto: “Fun is Ageless!”

A sincere thank you goes out to everyone who helped bring this project to completion.
 

Smart Growth for CT

It was a pleasure to join Governor Ned Lamont, DEEP Commissioner Katie Dykes, and other officials at a ribbon cutting celebrating the grand opening of Circular Services’ new compost and mulch bagging facility in Southington. This expansion of Circular’s operations is a strong example of how sustainable recycling and modern materials management can protect our environment while simultaneously strengthening Connecticut’s economy.

Circular Services demonstrates how innovation in the recycling sector is creating good jobs, improving efficiency, and keeping valuable materials in circulation rather than in landfills. This investment reflects the kind of forward-looking development we should continue to encourage in our communities.

I remain committed to solutions that are environmentally responsible, economically smart, and built right here in Connecticut.
 

Service in Motion

In the final days of the legislative session, I joined members of Southington’s legislative delegation in recognizing a talented student for her “Backflips for Backpacks” initiative. I’ve had the pleasure of getting to know Evelyn Hawley and attending her various fundraisers. Her commitment to helping others has always been clear.

Since starting this effort at just nine years old, Evelyn has helped collect hundreds of backpacks and thousands of school supplies for students in need. It was a pleasure to present her with a legislative citation on the House floor. Evelyn is a great example of community spirit in Southington, and I look forward to all she continues to accomplish.
 

Celebrations of Excellence

The community recently held two meaningful celebrations recognizing outstanding achievements at a Southington Board of Education meeting.

I had the privilege of honoring Chris Palmieri as the Connecticut Middle School Principal of the Year. This well-deserved recognition reflects his strong leadership, dedication to students, and the positive school culture he continues to build at DePaolo Middle School. It was an honor to congratulate him in front of the board and community.

I also congratulated the Southington High School Varsity Winter Color Guard on their extraordinary accomplishment at the WGI World Championships in Dayton, Ohio. The team earned the GOLD MEDAL, finishing more than a full point ahead of the runner-up. This marks an incredible milestone for a program that was restarted just four years ago after a 20-year hiatus. Their continued growth and success are a testament to their hard work, commitment, and teamwork.

It was a proud evening celebrating excellence across Southington schools and recognizing the students and educators who continue to raise the bar.
 

Support For Our Dairy Farmers

The state is committing $22.5 million from our Federal Cuts Response Fund to support Connecticut’s dairy farmers. Many small, family-owned businesses are working hard to stay afloat amid federally set milk prices that often favor large corporate operations over our local farms.
 
This investment will help protect jobs and ensure our communities continue to have access to fresh, nutritious, and locally produced food. When we support our farmers, we strengthen our food supply chain and our economy at the same time.
 
I was proud to support the creation of the Federal Cuts Response Fund during a special session last year to help stabilize Connecticut’s economy in the face of federal uncertainty. This is exactly why we established the fund.
 
As someone who consistently stands with small businesses, including the many family-run operations in Southington, I will always support smart investments that keep our local economy strong and resilient.
 

Understanding Your Energy Bill

Southington residents are invited to learn more about their energy bills and the programs available to help lower costs.

Eversource will host an informational presentation on Monday, May 18 from 10:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at the Calendar House (388 Pleasant Street).

Energy experts will break down what makes up your electric and natural gas bill, explain electric supplier options, and answer questions about rates. They will also review available assistance programs, discounts, and payment plans designed to help residents better manage rising energy costs.

This is a valuable opportunity to get clear, straightforward information and have your questions answered directly by the utility provider.
Click here to register
 

Click It or Ticket

The Southington Police Department is reminding everyone to buckle up in the car. Officers are joining a nationwide safety effort by enforcing the “Click It or Ticket” campaign through May 31.

Law enforcement officers across Connecticut will be out in full force, handing out tickets to drivers and passengers who do not wear seat belts. State law requires all drivers and passengers to buckle up.
 

Concert Season Is Here

Southington’s annual “Music on the Green” outdoor concert series returns Wednesdays from May 27 through September 2, from 7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. on the Southington Town Green (Route 10/Main St.).

Admission is free — just bring a lawn chair or blanket and enjoy the show! Check out this year’s lineup below and CLICK HERE for more information!
 

Summer Nights at The Drive-In

The Southington Drive-In has announced its Summer 2026 schedule! Fifteen weeks of big-screen entertainment begins on Saturday, May 30, with “Jaws” followed by a mix of new releases and other classics, many celebrating milestone anniversaries.

Shout out to lead sponsor Richard Chevrolet and event volunteers for their continued support. Admission remains just $20 per vehicle-load. Get ready to experience some “REEL” nostalgia this summer at the drive-in!
 

Helping Those In Need

The community is invited to help pack 25,000 meals for those in need. The Epic Day of Service “Feed the Hungry” Food Packing event will be held tomorrow, Saturday, May 16 beginning at 8 a.m. inside Derynoski Elementary School’s cafeteria at 130 Main Street. Southington Rotary, Southington High School Interact Club, Unico Club of Southington, Southington Lions, Bristol Rotary, and Plainville Rotary are all participating in the food packing event.
 

Town-Wide Block Party

Everyone is invited to the second annual Town-Wide Block Party celebrating mental health and community. The free event will be held on Sunday, May 17 at 1 p.m. at First Congregational Church (37 Main Street). The rain date is Sunday, May 31.

Nearly 20 local organizations will provide detailed information about their services supporting mental health and wellness in Southington and surrounding communities.

And don’t forget about the live music, free cotton candy, snow cones, popcorn, and much more!
Click here to for more details
 

Revolutionary Women of Southington

The Barnes Museum is commemorating our nation’s 250th anniversary with a special presentation at 6:00 p.m. on Thursday, May 21 at the Southington Public Library Community Room. The program will explore Southington’s Revolutionary-era history through the stories of the women connected to the Hannah Woodruff Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution.

Guests will learn about local families whose lineage trace back to Revolutionary War soldiers, the chapter’s historic ties to The Barnes Museum, and its continued work preserving local history. An accompanying artifact table will be on display featuring personal objects and materials from the Revolutionary-era. For more information, contact The Barnes Museum at (860) 628-5426 or TheBarnesMuseum@southingtonct.gov.
 

The Gardeners Market

Reminder - You are invited to the 2026 Gardeners Market to buy plants for your garden! The event is tomorrow, Saturday, May 16 from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. at the Calendar House Portico (388 Pleasant Street).

Proceeds help the garden club support scholarships and educational, civic, beautification, and conservation projects in Southington.
 

Touch-A-Truck

Reminder - Families are invited to get up close and personal with construction, military, emergency, and other specialty vehicles at the 22nd annual Touch-A-Truck! The event will take place tomorrow, Saturday, May 16 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Southington Drive-In (995 Meriden-Waterbury Turnpike). The rain date is Sunday, May 17.

New this year, the event will begin with a sensory-friendly quiet hour from 10 a.m. – 11 a.m., offering a more comfortable experience for children who benefit from reduced noise and activity.

In addition to exploring trucks and meeting the people who operate them, children can enjoy pace painting and glitter tattoos. Admission is $4 for kids, and adults are free.
 

National Police Week

We join communities across the country in honoring the law enforcement officers who have made the ultimate sacrifice as well as those who continue to serve with courage and integrity every day. 
 

As always, if I can be of assistance, please reach out to me at 860-240-8585 or email me at Chris.Poulos@cga.ct.gov. Don't forget to "LIKE" my Facebook page for news and legislative updates!

Sincerely,

Chris Poulos
State Representative  
 

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