Although I didn’t get to work with state Rep. Kevin Ryan for very long, it didn’t take much time to learn two things about him: No one was wittier, and no one cared more deeply about others.
Kevin passed away earlier this week at the age of 73.
I’ll truly miss walking over to his desk for a sharp one-liner or the thoughtful answer he always seemed to have. He made an impact in my short time in the House, and I’m grateful to have known him. Rest in eternal peace, Rep! |
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Happy Thanksgiving!
As families and friends across our community gather around their tables, this is a moment to pause, take stock of the year behind us, and give thanks for the everyday acts of kindness and resilience that make our towns in Connecticut such special places to live.
This season can be joyful, but it can also be difficult for neighbors who are struggling with loss, loneliness, or making ends meet, and they remain very much in my thoughts.
As we celebrate, may we also commit ourselves to learning more about the true history of this holiday, honoring the Native communities whose lands we live on, and working toward a more just and inclusive future for everyone who calls Connecticut home. |
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| Thanksgiving Celebration at Ann's Place |
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Last year, I was invited to join the Thanksgiving celebration for Latino cancer patients at Ann's Place, where the support group Un Día a la Vez – One Day at a Time, gathers to support one another through their cancer journeys. Their love, courage, and unwavering unity are powerful. This year was just as special.
The determination each person shows, the grit they carry with them, is inspiring. It’s the same grit I see in my friend and brother, Mayor Roberto Alves, who has faced his own cancer journey with perseverance and heart. That spirit, that will to push forward, defines this community.
Thank you to every individual who bravely shared their story, and thank you to Shannon Cobb and Emi Gonzalez for creating a place where our residents can find comfort, resources, community, and hope. |
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| ACE Thanksgiving Celebration |
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Grateful for the ACE Annual Thanksgiving Celebration, truly one of our community’s must-attend traditions each year. Thank you to Principal John Webber and his incredible team for organizing such a warm, welcoming event, and to Abbott Tech’s Culinary Students for preparing an absolutely delicious meal.
We also stopped by Reach/Endeavor to wish all the students and staff a very Happy Thanksgiving and to spend some time chatting with them. Thank you to Principal Bill Kersten and his dedicated team for arranging a beautiful family-style Thanksgiving lunch for the students that brought everyone together.
So grateful for our schools, our educators, and the love they pour into our students today and every day. |
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| Thank You, Mykonos Restaurant |
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For 43 years, Mykonos Restaurant has been a beloved staple in our community. I’ve had the privilege of knowing Steve, Nick, and the Fillipakos family for many years going back to my days at the Savings Bank of Danbury’s Hayestown Office, where they were among my favorite customers.
It’s bittersweet to see them move on, but after decades of dedication to their customers and this restaurant, they’ve more than earned the chance to take it easy.
Wishing them all the happiness and success in this next chapter. Thank you for 43 wonderful years! |
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| Big Win for Abbott Tech/Immaculate United |
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How about those ATI United boys?! What a huge win in the rain last night, 31–6 over Bullard Havens in Bridgeport!
These Abbott Tech and Immaculate athletes have battled all season long overcoming many challenges, and now they’re heading to the state playoffs.
Congrats boys! Keep making us proud! |
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As always, if you have any comments, questions or concerns, please reach out to my office.
Sincerely,
Farley Santos |
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