Dear Neighbor,
I always look forward to my annual visit with the 5th graders at Oshana Elementary School! Each year, their teachers invite me to talk about the legislative branch, my role as a state representative, and how government works at the state and local levels. |
|
| The students are currently exploring community issues and preparing for the Connecticut Kid Governor competition — a wonderful program that fosters civic engagement and leadership at a young age. Oshana Elementary has an impressive record of success, with two of its students previously elected as Connecticut’s Kid Governor: Cristiano Almeida (2024) and Reese Naughton (2021). |
|
I had a great time answering their thoughtful questions and hearing their ideas for making our community better. The future of our state is in good hands with young people this curious, informed, and passionate about public service.
Please continue reading below for other noteworthy items, and thanks as always for taking the time to read them! |
|
| Visiting Boy Scout Troop 32 |
|
|
| This week, I also had the pleasure of attending a meeting of Boy Scout Troop 32, where I spoke about my involvement in public service—both as a town councilor and as a state representative. I shared my experiences in government and discussed the importance of civic engagement, highlighting the constitutional rights and responsibilities we all share as U.S. citizens. |
|
| I’m grateful to Scout Master Dan Greer and Assistant Scout Master Paul Dickau for the invitation and warm welcome. It was inspiring to see the Scouts’ enthusiasm and thoughtful questions about how individuals can make a difference in their communities through leadership and participation in our democracy. |
|
| Calendar House Projects Underway |
|
|
| Construction is officially underway at the Calendar House on exciting improvements to our senior center, including an outdoor pickle ball court and storage garage in the rear of the property. |
|
|
Late in 2024, I was proud to work in partnership with legislative leadership and town staff to secure $99,700 in state funding for this project, which will enhance accessibility, health, and community engagement for Southington’s older adults.
I'm grateful to everyone who helped bring this project to life and look forward to seeing the new court once it's complete.
|
|
The Connecticut Department of Revenue Services (DRS) is alerting everyone of a new scam where criminals impersonate the DRS with fraudulent text messages. They claim that you are owed a tax refund and must provide banking and other information to receive the money.
The DRS will NEVER send taxpayers a text message or seek to obtain information from taxpayers via text. If you have information on a tax-related scam, contact DRS by completing a referral form on the agency’s website.
Taxpayers with questions are encouraged to reach out to DRS at (860) 297- 5962, Monday through Friday, between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. or by email at DRS@ct.gov. |
|
| Apple Harvest Festival Continues |
|
|
| The Apple Harvest Festival continues this weekend featuring the Arts & Crafts Show on both Saturday, October 11 & Sunday, October 12 from 11:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Discover handmade goods and unique finds from talented local crafters! It’s the perfect time to jump-start your holiday shopping while supporting local artisans. |
|
| Festival hours, shuttle service, and fritter information are listed below. Be sure to check the Apple Harvest Website and official event Facebook Page for up to date information on the festival. Enjoy! |
|
The Town of Southington will begin its regular leaf collection operations on Monday, November 3, 2025 (crews will be spot picking leaves in heavy sections throughout Town beginning Monday, October 27).
Please view the document linked below to determine specific zone numbers and collection dates. |
|
You're invited to touch, climb, and fill a variety of trucks and other vehicles with food on Saturday, October 18 from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. at Plantsville Congregational Church. The kids will also get a chance to get a face painting and glitter tattoos. Please bring nonperishable food donations to help fill the trucks for Southington Community Services. Please use Oshana Elementary School for parking.
In case of rain, this event will take place on Saturday, October 25. |
|
Learn about the history and culture of the Anatolian peninsula while enjoying samples of Turkish coffee, along with Turkish tea, and a variety of Turkish refreshments on Saturday, October 18 at 2 p.m. at Southington Public Library.
The event is brought to you by representatives of the Peace Islands Institute, an international organization promoting cross-cultural conversations and friendship.
Registration is requested. CLICK HERE to register online or call the reference desk at (860) 628-0947 to reserve a spot. |
|
REMINDER- One of Southington’s most popular events of the year is approaching! I’m looking forward to attending Soup Night on Wednesday, October 15, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Southington High School.
Enjoy delicious soups from local restaurants while supporting the important work and mission of Bread for Life. Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for children under 8, with a limit of 400 tickets available. Tickets are only available online—don’t miss out!
CLICK HERE to purchase tickets and support a great cause. |
|
| Pancake Breakfast Reminder |
|
|
REMINDER- You don't want to miss an all-you-can-eat pancake breakfast to support the community! The Southington Lions are hosting the 60th annual event on Sunday, October 11 from 8 a.m. – 12 p.m. at the Southington Calendar House at 388 Pleasant Street.
It costs $10 per person, but seniors get in for $7, and it's free for children under the age of 5. The Lions Club asks that you pay at the door. Proceeds support Lions eye research, community service projects, and scholarships. |
|
| Kinsmen Brewing Sip & Shop |
|
|
| You're invited to wander through Kinsmen Brewing's Clark Hall to sip on great beer while shopping for handmade crafts, fall décor, tasty treats from local vendors. The Kinsmen Fall Sip & Shop event takes place from 12 p.m. – 4 p.m. on Sunday, October 12. Relax, browse, catch up with friends, and raise a glass to the season. |
|
| Join the fun at the Cadillac Ranch for a day of shopping, music, and laughter to support cats in need. The Cat Nap Village Fun Fest will feature great food, family games, face painting, local crafters, live music, prizes, and much more. The event will be held Sunday, October 12 from 1 p.m. – 6 p.m. at the Cadillac Ranch at 45 Jude Lane. |
|
| 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 |
|
| Your Guide to Peak Fall Foliage |
|
|
| Enjoy the fall colors… Here’s your peak color guide: |
|
CLICK HERE for the full CT Fall Foliage Report so you know peak viewing times in each area of the state.
The CT Tourism Office has some great ideas on how to enjoy the season, CLICK HERE for CT's Fall Foliage Road Trip Guide and links to hiking trails and CLICK HERE for seven different CT Fall Foliage Drive Loops around the state and the peak times to take them.
Don’t miss your chance to soak in the season’s beauty! |
|
| 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 |
|
|
|
