| This week, I met with the Southington STEPS Youth Council to learn more the dangers of kratom, an unregulated substance with significant health risks.
Their presentation was impressive, and they asked thoughtful questions about the legislative process and advocacy strategies. |
|
| In response to their concerns, I have introduced HB 5427, which would prohibit the sale of kratom to individuals under 21.
I look forward to welcoming these passionate young leaders to the State Capitol on Feb. 5 as we work together to protect the health and safety of Southington residents. |
|
| Please continue reading below for other noteworthy items, and thanks as always for taking the time to read them! |
|
| The Science of Snowmaking |
|
|
| On Tuesday night, I was invited to a behind-the-scenes tour of Mount Southington’s snowmaking operation. |
|
| John Galuska and his team walked me through “The Shop,” showcasing the pumps, compressors, and computer systems that move the right combination of water and air through pipes enabling them to cover the trails with snow. |
|
| We then headed up the mountain, where John explained the “Science of Snowmaking” while we observed the snow guns in action and giant piles of snow that were accumulating. |
|
| The tour concluded with a snowmobile ride through a programmed snowstorm — an unforgettable experience! |
|
| Our community is fortunate to have Mount Southington, one of the special “Gems” of our town.
A big thank you to John and his hardworking team for all they do to ensure residents can enjoy outdoor winter fun right here in our backyard! |
|
| I-84 Traffic Safety Corridor Initiative |
|
|
| This week, I attended an organizational meeting of the Public Safety and Security Committee, where we voted to draft bills on several important topics, including An Act Concerning Traffic Safety.
Since late fall, I’ve been working with fellow legislators, state agencies, and the State Police on a proposal to improve highway safety, which includes establishing an "I-84 Traffic Safety Corridor" between Waterbury and New Britain. |
|
| This proposal, initially brought to me by a constituent, reflects the importance of community input, and I look forward to ongoing collaboration and advocacy in Hartford to move the bill forward. |
|
| On Wednesday, I joined state officials in celebrating the life of Ella Grasso, a trailblazing American politician and a beacon of leadership, best known as the first woman elected as governor of a U.S. state.
She served Connecticut from 1975 to 1980, and we recognized the 50th anniversary of her inauguration. A dedicated public servant, she broke barriers with grace and tenacity, championing fiscal responsibility and integrity in governance. |
|
| Grasso's unwavering commitment to her constituents earned her respect and admiration across party lines, leaving behind a legacy of perseverance and progress that continues to inspire Connecticut's leaders and residents. |
|
| It's the end of an era. As our 1975 library begins its final chapter, you can view a recent photo of the jobsite and monitor the progress of the demolition by clicking here (photo updates periodically). |
|
| Portable Heater Safety Tips |
|
|
| The cold snap in Connecticut may lead some to use portable heaters in their homes to help stave off Jack Frost.
Using these heaters come with some risks, however, as they are the leading cause of home fires in January and February.
Here are some precautions you should take, according to FEMA, if you use portable heaters:
- Turn portable heaters off when you go to bed or leave the room.
- Keep anything that can burn – i.e. bedding, clothing, mattresses, furniture, paper products -- at least three feet away from portable heaters.
- Plug in portable heaters directly into outlets; do NOT plug them into extension cords or power strips.
- Inspect and replace damaged cords, broken outlets or loose connections.
- Use portable heaters with automatic shutoffs so, if they tip over, they turn off.
- Only use portable heaters approved by a recognized testing lab.
It's extremely important to stay warm, but it's also important to stay fire safe this winter. |
|
| Severe Cold Weather Protocol Extended |
|
|
| Governor Ned Lamont announced that due to an updated weather forecast showing that the current stretch of brutally frigid conditions Connecticut is experiencing will continue for at least another day longer than anticipated, he is extending the duration of the state’s severe cold weather protocol to remain in effect until noon on Saturday, January 25.
The protocol had originally been set to expire on the afternoon of Friday, Jan. 24, and will now remain in place until Saturday afternoon.
While activated, the protocol initiates a series of actions to ensure that the most vulnerable populations receive protection from the severe cold.
As a reminder, Southington’s Warming Center locations and times are as follows:
Southington Public Library (244 Main Street)
Friday, January 24, from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m.
Saturday, January 25, from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m.
Calendar House (388 Pleasant Street)
Friday, January 24, from 8:30 a.m. until 4:30 p.m..
Saturday, January 25, closed
Southington Police Department (69 Lazy Lane)
After hours when Calendar House and Library are closed |
|
| Is your home Fire Safe? Sign up for a free home safety analysis with the Southington Fire Department by calling 860-621-3202, ext. 8100 or by emailing tsangaridesk@southington.org |
|
| Honoring Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. |
|
|
| Reminder: The First Baptist Church, 581 Meriden Ave., will host its annual Martin Luther King Jr. observance on Sunday, Jan. 26, during the 10 a.m. service. Connecticut’s Secretary of the State Stephanie Thomas will be the guest speaker and two middle school students will be recognized for their excellence. |
|
| The countdown is ON! The 20th Annual Sloper Plunge is under a month away! Mark your calendars for Saturday, Feb. 22, at 1 p.m. to watch as brave volunteers take the plunge into the icy waters of Sloper Pond! For more information and to contribute to the cause visit the Sloper Plunge website. |
|
| 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 |
|
|
|
