Dear Neighbor,
On Thanksgiving Day, I was grateful for the opportunity to attend The Calvanese Foundation’s Annual Veterans Thanksgiving Dinner at the Aqua Turf, an event that continues to grow in both size and impact. This year, more than 700 veterans and their guests came together to share a warm meal, reconnect with friends, and receive the recognition their service and sacrifices deserve. |
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It was especially meaningful for me to attend with my father, Chris Poulos, Sr., a retired U.S. Army Lieutenant Colonel and member of the Southington Veterans Committee. Together, we had the privilege of greeting many of the veterans in attendance and hearing their stories.
These moments serve as powerful reminders of the courage and commitment that define our veteran community — and of our ongoing responsibility to support them. My dad shared these sentiments, along with his Veterans Thanksgiving story, in this news clip. |
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| Click here to read a FOX 61 article highlighting our veterans over Thanksgiving. |
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The dinner was made possible thanks to the hard work of dedicated volunteers and community partners who put tremendous care into creating a welcoming and meaningful afternoon. Their efforts were evident in every detail, from the hospitality to the heartfelt conversations shared around each table, and I’m grateful to everyone who contributed to this year’s celebration.
I look forward to continuing to support efforts that honor our veterans and strengthen the bonds that make Southington such a special place to call home.
Please continue reading below for other noteworthy items, and thanks as always for taking the time to read them! |
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| Dangerously Cold -- Stay Indoors |
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Due to dangerously frigid weather, the state's severe cold weather protocol is in effect until 12 p.m. on Tuesday, December 9. Temperatures are expected to average 10 – 20 degrees below normal. This is the first time the state has activated the protocol this season.
The following locations are serving as Southington’s warming center locations:
Southington Public Library (255 Main Street)
- Saturday, December 6 from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m
- Monday, December 8 from 9 a.m. until 8 p.m.
- Tuesday, December 9 from 9 a.m. until 12 p.m.
Southington Calendar House (388 Pleasant Street)
- Monday, December 8 from 8:30 a.m. until 4:30 p.m.
- Tuesday, December 9 from 8:30 a.m. until 12 p.m.
Southington Police Department (69 Lazy Lane)
- After hours when Library and Calendar House are closed
If you are looking for a different location, call 2-1-1 or go to 211ct.org. Transportation can be provided if necessary.
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| Southington Football on a Roll |
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| On Thanksgiving morning, I had the pleasure of watching Southington dominate Cheshire, securing a 31–0 win and reclaiming the Apple Valley Classic trophy. The Blue Knights controlled the game from start to finish, capitalizing on multiple Cheshire turnovers and showcasing a balanced, high-powered offense. It was an exciting game and a wonderful way to celebrate this holiday tradition with our community. |
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| This past Wednesday, Southington High School (SHS) defeated Glastonbury High School 35–30 in a thrilling CIAC Class LL quarterfinal matchup. No. 4 Southington will host No. 8 Norwich Free Academy (NFA) on Monday, December 8 at 6:30 p.m. in the Class LL state semifinals at SHS’s Fontana Field. Go Blue Knights! |
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Supporting Southington Businesses
This Holiday Season |
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| This past Small Business Saturday, I had the pleasure of visiting Just For You Gift Shoppe at its new location in the Rochambeau Mall (1783 Meriden-Waterbury Turnpike) and chatting with owner, Flo Legat. By walking through the store, it was clear that every item is carefully selected and displayed, making it a true gem in our community. |
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| As we head into the holiday season, it’s more important than ever to show our support for Southington’s local brick-and-mortar businesses. Shops like Just For You Gift Shoppe are the heart of our town, offering unique gifts, personalized service, and a welcoming atmosphere that you just can’t find online. |
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| I encourage everyone to take a moment to explore Southington’s incredible local businesses this holiday season. Your support makes a real difference, helping these shops thrive and keeping our community vibrant. |
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| Update from YMCA Camp Sloper |
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Last weekend, I had the pleasure of visiting YMCA Camp Sloper alongside CEO Mark Pooler to check on the progress of the new camp office and infirmary. The exterior of the building is now complete, and work is underway on the interior.
Crews are expected to finish work on the facility by spring, just in time for next summer’s camp season. It was exciting to see the building coming together and to hear firsthand how it will enhance the experience for both campers and staff. |
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| Previously, I helped secure $520,000 in federal funding to make this project possible, so seeing the tangible results of that effort was especially rewarding. The new facility is designed to provide a safe, welcoming, and efficient space for camp operations, ensuring campers receive the best possible care and support during their time at Camp Sloper. |
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| Projects like this are more than just buildings — they represent a strong commitment to our town and to creating opportunities for young people to grow, learn, and thrive. I’m excited for what this upgrade will mean for our community and grateful to the YMCA team for all they’re doing to bring it to life. |
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Senior Medical Patrol (SMP) is warning about an increased amount of scam calls about chipped Medicare cards. Medicare beneficiaries are reporting calls from "Medicare representatives" or "agents" that are calling, claiming to help them get new Medicare cards with a chip in it. These don't exist; it's a scam to steal Medicaid numbers so they can bill Medicare and get money.
Report these calls to the SMP. Be sure to review your Medicare statements for charges for braces. If you find something, say something.
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| Library Learning & Community Support |
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Intro to Finance Classes for Teens
It’s not too late to sign up! Teens ages 12–18 are invited to join Connecticut Finance in Advance for a four-week Introduction to Finance course hosted by the Southington Public Library. Each session will cover a different topic in finance and money management, helping teens build valuable skills for the future.Classes will be held on December 9, 16, 23, and 30 from 5 p.m. – 7 p.m. at the library. Registration is required for participation. Sign up for the first session HERE, and registration for subsequent weeks opens one week before each class. Don’t miss this opportunity to give teens a head start in understanding finance and managing money!
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Food For Fines
The Southington Public Library is thrilled to partner with Southington Community Services again this year. Please bring your donations and library card through December 26 to the Circulation Desk to remove fines and donate. Billed or damaged items are not included in this program. Thank you for your generosity.
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Calendars For Vets
The library is also collecting 2026 wall calendars for Southington Veterans and Southington Nursing Facilities. To donate stop by the library or visit one of the collection centers listed below.
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Southington Festival Chorale
You're invited to listen to the Southington Festival Chorale perform "Believe" at 3 p.m. on Sunday, December 7 at First Lutheran Church of Southington. You will get a chance to sing along to holiday classics like White Christmas and O Holy Night and hear pieces from known titles like "Prince of Egypt" and "Polar Express."
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Holiday Market at Bread for Life
You can pick up some fabulous gifts at the Holiday Market at Southington Bread for Life. Vendors will be selling handmade coasters, lip balm, gingerbread cakes, and much more! The free event takes place from 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. on Saturday, December 13 at 31 Vermont Avenue. Take a look at the graphic below for more items for sale.
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Christmas in the Village
Christmas in the Village returns to downtown Plantsville from 4:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. on Sunday, December 14. This event will offer horse drawn carriage rides, face painting, a chance to meet Santa Claus, and much more. Refreshments will include bagels, cider, and chestnuts.
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An Evening With Santa
Experience the magic of the holidays at the Barnes Museum’s “An Evening with Santa” on Friday, December 19th, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Children of all ages can share their holiday wishes, take memorable photos, and create cherished memories with Santa Claus himself. While waiting to see Santa, guests can enjoy making a festive holiday craft, and everyone is invited to savor a delightful selection of light refreshments and pastries, perfect for a cozy holiday evening.
Admission is $10 per individual or $20 per family of three, and children under six are admitted free of charge. Registration is required to attend; click here to reserve your spot! Don’t miss this opportunity to celebrate the season and create lasting holiday memories with your family.
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Bright Lights Christmas Festival
Reminder- You're invited to get in the holiday spirit at the Bright Lights Christmas Festival on the Southington Town Green! You can join the celebration and enjoy free family activities TONIGHT, Friday, December 5 from 5:30 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Some of the activities include a polar express children's train ride, candy cane scavenger hunt, and the lighting of the town green. Please read the graphic below for more information.
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Rudolph Comes to SHS
Reminder: The Southington High School Drama Club is spreading holiday cheer! Students will perform in a festive musical of Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer TONIGHT, Friday, December 5 at 6:30 p.m. and tomorrow Saturday, December 6 at 2 p.m. and again at 6:30 p.m. at the high school.
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Fashioned for the Holidays
Reminder- Discover a sparkling seasonal exhibit at The Barnes Museum, where each Christmas tree is paired with historic fashion—from Victorian and Edwardian styles to mid-century favorites and G. Fox & Company pieces.
The exhibit runs through December and January. The museum offers tours Wednesday – Friday from 1 p.m. – 5 p.m. (last tour at 4 p.m.). Private appointments available.
Reserve a tour at 860-628-5426 or thebarnesmuseum@southington.org. Some rooms may be closed during tours.
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We mourn the passing of my colleague, Representative Kevin Ryan. For more than 30 years, Kevin dedicated his life to the people of Montville, Ledyard, and Norwich while wanting the best for all of Connecticut.
At the Capitol, Kevin was a constant presence with a steady hand on the dais, a trusted mentor, and a loyal friend. His humor, warmth, and unmistakable eastern Connecticut accent always brought us a smile.
The Capitol will feel emptier without him, but the impact he made on his community, on this institution, and on me will endure. |
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| 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! |
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Sincerely,
Chris Poulos
State Representative |
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