This week, I had the privilege of presenting an Official State Citation from the Connecticut General Assembly to Mark Ramsay, recognizing his extraordinary service, leadership, and commitment to the people of Southington.
As the 2025 recipient of the UNICO Gold Medal of Honor, Mark exemplifies the very best of our community — not just through his accomplishments as the founder of LEAF and a seventh-generation farmer, but through his unwavering dedication to inclusion, education, and public service. |
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From mentoring students to supporting countless local organizations, Mark has always put service above self. What makes him truly special is that beyond all the accolades, Mark is simply a good man — a kind friend, a humble citizen, and someone who quietly and consistently makes a difference.
Congratulations, Mark — and thank you for showing us what it means to lead with heart, integrity, and purpose.
Please continue reading below for other noteworthy items, and thanks as always for taking the time to read them! |
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| I enjoyed welcoming students and teachers from Thalberg School to the House Chamber gallery this week! The students asked thoughtful and engaging questions, and they represented our town well at the Capitol. |
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| This week, Southington YMCA CEO Mark Pooler and his team visited to share their organization’s legislative priorities, including proposals related to early childhood education, camp regulations, and a grant-funded swimming lesson program. They also provided an update on the status and timeline of the new infirmary and camp office project at Camp Sloper, which is being funded by a $520,000 federal grant that we worked collaboratively to secure. I’m glad the legislative schedule allowed time for our brief but informative meeting. |
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| In between votes, it was great to catch up with my Southington friend Lottie Prushinski over coffee and pastries as we discussed AARP’s legislative priorities for this legislative session. I always appreciate the chance to hear directly from constituents about the issues that matter most to them. |
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| Win for CT Towns and Small Businesses |
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This week, the House passed legislation that saves money for EVERY EMPLOYER in the state since all of them faced skyrocketing workers’ compensation claims costs after a CT Supreme Court ruling.
This legislation was a top priority of businesses and municipalities and saves them millions of dollars. Business advocates estimate workers’ compensation costs would have increased 265% absent any action. |
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ICYMI - We passed legislation that will foster a more inclusive and responsive system that better meets the needs of individuals with autism and intellectual disabilities.
✅ Tracks delays & gaps in critical services
✅ Requires public reporting on abuse & neglect cases
✅ Reviews DDS investigation policies every 5 years
✅ Launches statewide autism needs assessment
✅ Studies future of Southbury Training School
✅ Proposes urgent help for complex autism cases
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| The Original Southington Drive-In Committee announced its movie lineup for the Summer 2025 Season. Join friends and neighbors on Saturday nights for "reel" entertainment under the stars. Please keep in mind that the Drive-In is an all-volunteer venue with all proceeds going to the host organizations. Gates open at 6 p.m. and movies start at dark -- approximately 30 minutes after sunset. $20 a carload / walk-ins $5 each (lawn chairs welcome!). Cash only. |
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| Reminder: The LEAF's annual plant sale is Saturday, May 24, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at 65 Blueberry Lane. The sale is a fundraiser that supports the organization's educational programming. For more information, please see the flyer below or visit leafct.com. |
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| American Legion Veteran Fund |
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As we approach Memorial Day, here's a reminder that the American Legion Soldiers', Sailors' and Marine Fund provides eligible Connecticut veterans or surviving spouses of veterans in need with temporary financial assistance for expenses such as food, clothing, rent, mortgage interest, dental care, medical supplies and burial costs. Legion membership is not required.
For more information, visit alctssmf.org or please call 860-628-9890. |
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Reminder: Every Tuesday from through June 24, the Southington Calendar House Senior Center (388 Pleasant St.) will host a support group for people diagnosed with autoimmune symptoms from 2:30 to 3:30 p.m. The group will be facilitated by Jacki Willametz, RN, who will cover basic medical terms and types of autoimmune diseases, as well as share personal stories on how to manage life challenges.
More details on the flyer below. |
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⏰ Coming up at the Capitol! The House will be back in session next week. Stay tuned for key updates, votes, and what’s on the legislative agenda.
Here are some great ways to stay informed:
➡️ The Connecticut Network (CT-N) provides live, gavel-to-gavel coverage of legislative sessions. You can watch sessions live on Roku, YouTube or their website: https://www.ct-n.com.
➡️ Connecticut General Assembly's official website offers a Schedule of Events: cga.ct.gov/calendarofevents.asp. |
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As we conclude EMS week, let’s consider some statistics as we honor the dedication, courage, and lifesaving care of Connecticut’s EMS professionals. Thank you to every EMT, paramedic, dispatcher, and first responder who make the difference between life and death.
In Connecticut:
20,000+ certified EMS personnel
450,000 emergency calls annually
75 volunteer ambulance services providing EMS support
58 volunteer fire departments providing EMS support
24/7 dedication to our communities |
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Monday is Memorial Day. Let us honor and remember the brave men and women who gave the ultimate sacrifice in service to our country. Their courage and dedication to the ideals of freedom and democracy will never be forgotten.
As we reflect on their legacy, I invite you to revisit the remarks I shared last year, which still hold deep meaning for me and, I hope, for our community. |
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| Let us carry forward their memory with gratitude in our hearts and a renewed commitment to the values they gave everything to defend at our town’s annual parade and service. Details are below. |
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| Wishing you a meaningful and peaceful Memorial Day. |
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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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