I ended a productive week at the Capitol this morning by attending a press conference on SB2, the relevant part of which would dedicate 50% of the additional 1% per sales-and-use taxes imposed on meals sold by eating establishments, caterers or grocery stores to the Tourism Fund, and the other 50% to the municipality in which such revenue was generated.
That's a mouthful. But here's the practical impact: It would bring back $1.2 million to Danbury annually, without raising anyone's taxes. The original 1% sales tax on prepared meals -- which was levied before I was elected to the General Assembly -- was supposed to revert back to municipalities. The tax wound up going back to the general fund, instead. Now, with SB2, I fully support using that tax to not only buttress Connecticut's tourist and restaurant industries, but also to bring back much-needed funds to towns and cities, Danbury included. |
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I am honored. I am grateful. I am inspired. 
I’m also truly humbled to be named a 2026 Immigrant of the Year Honoree at the State Capitol.
My story began with my mother and father who had the courage to leave everything behind and blaze a new trail so that we could have a chance at something greater. Their sacrifice, resilience, and belief in opportunity shaped the man I am today.
That journey instilled in me compassion, a relentless work ethic, and the drive and tenacity I bring to serving our community every single day.
This honor isn’t just mine, it belongs to them, and to every family who took a leap of faith for a better future. Because immigrants are the story of America and make up the beautiful mosaic that is this country. |
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The Western Connecticut State University Presidential Inaugural Gala for Dr. Jesse Bernal kicked off two days of celebrating the University, its students, it’s faculty, and its leadership.
As I shared in my remarks:
“How fitting that in the seventh-most diverse city in the nation, and at Connecticut’s only Hispanic Serving Institution, we welcome Dr. Jesse Bernal.
Welcome to our community.
Bienvenido a nuestra comunidad.
Bem-vindo à nossa comunidade.”
Danbury showed up strong, and we’re proud to have you here. |
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| Session Day at the Capitol |
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The real work doesn’t happen during the votes, it happens in the conversations in between.
Session days are about strengthening collaborations, building support, and working the room. That’s how I’ve been successful in delivering for Danbury.
Even better when our community and constituents show up for a cause.
Great seeing Isabel Almeida and the United Way team at the Capitol fighting for child care because when we support families, we strengthen everything. |
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I didn’t think Wednesday’s House session would end early enough, but I made it back just in time for Khloë’s musical theater debut.
So proud of my girl and all the talented students at Westside Middle School Academy, they absolutely nailed "Mary Poppins Jr."!
Huge kudos to the cast, crew, and the incredible educators who put in the extensive work each year to make this such a special experience for our kids.
Moments like this matter. |
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From my banking days to today, I’ve had a front row seat watching my former customer turned friend, Dan Bubniak, build a multi-million dollar business, and still give back.
Alongside the Greater Danbury Chamber of Commerce, Dan hosted an “Under the Hood” CEO series conversation at one of my favorite spots, Charter Oak Brewing Company LLC, bringing together entrepreneurs from across the region.
Featuring Danbury’s own Rich Reyes, one of the minds behind Mecha Noodle, Minas Carne, Mariposa, Amigo’s Deli, Pho Vietnam, and more.
An honest, engaging conversation on what it really takes to succeed — risk, resilience, scaling a brand, and staying rooted in your community.
Two entrepreneurs. Real hustle. Real impact. Driving Economy.
This is what #DoItInDanbury looks like. |
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Great welcoming Uniformed Professional Fire Fighters Association of Connecticut to Danbury and spending time with our Danbury Professional Fire Fighters, Local 801, IAFF.
From securing a long-overdue contract after 12 years, thanks to Mayor Roberto Alves, to advancing firefighter cancer relief and more championed by my colleague extraordinaire state Sen. Julie Kushner, we’re delivering real results for those who protect us every day.
I’ll always stand with our firefighters. Proud to have their backs. |
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| Celebrating Danbury's Bravest |
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Speaking of firefighters, congratulations to the Danbury Volunteer Fire Department on another Firemen’s Ball, honoring the brave men and women who step up for our city every single day. From new recruits to over 6 decades of service, Danbury is stronger because of YOU.
The highlight of the night for Kitty and me? Seeing my good friend, Majority Leader Frank Salvatore Jr., receive the Firefighter Civic Award for 42 years of service.
Frank is the real deal — loyal, selfless, and always showing up for others. Couldn’t be more deserved.
And yes… “Frankie the Fireman” as his walk-up music? Legendary! His friends are NEVER letting that go.
This moment was also a reminder of the work behind the scenes. Frank helped lead the push to bring back the Volunteer Tax Abatement discuss and alongside then Councilman Roberto Alves, we fought to make it happen. Now as Mayor, Roberto Alves delivered. No delays. No excuses.
He got it done for our volunteers. That’s what leadership looks like.
To every volunteer firefighter, thank you for standing in the gap and helping keep Danbury safe alongside our career firefighters.
We are grateful. We are proud. And we don’t take it for granted. |
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Lakeview Pizza for dinner. … Say less.
Vodka Margherita is the move   |
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| NVCC Foundation Breakfast |
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Early start with a powerful reminder of why this work matters. At the NVCC Foundation Breakfast, Adriana G., a CT State Naugatuck Valley student who shared her journey of struggle and success, and it says everything.
This is why I’ve been proud to vote in support of making community college more accessible and free in Connecticut. When we invest in student success, the return comes back tenfold for our communities. |
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| Welcome, Humanly Danbury! |
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Welcome to the city, Humanly Danbury, a dynamic shared workspace that’s already making an impact. Thank you Stephanie, Anthony, and team for investing in our community.
This is what it’s all about: supporting entrepreneurs, expanding opportunity, and building a city where businesses thrive. |
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We wrapped up the 2026 St. Patrick’s Day festivities in Danbury last week!
Marching in the parade, one of our city’s most cherished traditions, is always a highlight. From the music and flags to the smiling faces lining the streets, it’s a celebration of culture, community, and pride that makes Danbury so special.
Grateful to everyone who came out, marched, organized, and kept this tradition strong. Thank you to the Greater Danbury Irish Cultural Center, Danbury AOH, and Danbury LAOH.
Until next year!  |
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| Brazilian Business Network |
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Grateful to join Mayor Roberto Alves at the Brazilian Business Network right here in Danbury.
As the Mayor’s Economic & Community Development Advisor, I shared our vision and the work we do every single day, bringing new businesses to Danbury, expanding opportunities, locating local and state resources, and helping our existing businesses grow and succeed.
Instead of a traditional speech, we opened it up for real conversation — questions, answers, and honest dialogue about permitting and how we continue making Danbury a place where businesses can thrive.
This is how we move forward: strong partnerships, listening, and taking action to strengthen our local economy. Special thanks to Ulisses Moreira for the invite. |
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| Danbury's Newest Eagle Takes Flight |
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A new sign. A new space. A lasting impact.
Daniel Manfredonia didn’t just earn his Eagle Scout rank, he gave back to Danbury in a meaningful way.
His project brought a new sign to King Street Schools and turned an unused area into a beautiful garden for the entire school community to enjoy.
Leadership in action. |
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The Danbury Police Cadets program is building young leaders grounded in discipline, courage, and commitment, and last week's Awards Dinner proved it.
As cadets age out, many are stepping up to serve, joining the military or preparing to become Danbury Police Officers. Exactly what we want to see.
That’s why I was proud to secure $50,000 in state funding to help grow this incredible program.
Grateful for the recognition, but even more proud of these young men and women. Special thanks to Sgt. Dave Antedomenico, his dedication to these cadets is unmatched, and it shows every day. |
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| Knights of Columbus Fish Fry |
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Pulled up to support the Knights of Columbus Council No. 29 Fish Fry at St. Greg’s.
All hail Chef Frankie Fried Fish whipping up crispy, golden, and gone in 60 seconds. Huge thank you to the Knights for keeping this tradition alive and bringing the community together |
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Sincerely,
Farley Santos |
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