Romantic Willimantic & Free Home Ownership Seminar

February 20, 2026

The community came together last week to celebrate for Romantic Willimantic. As part of the festivities, we were proud to announce our newest cupid, Dick Smith. I'll break down why he was chosen for this special honor.

If you’ve been thinking about buying a home but feel overwhelmed by the process, there’s good news. A free seminar is coming to Willimantic that could help make owning a home feel more attainable. I’ll share the details about this helpful event below.

Here are the sections in today's email:

  • Access Health CT's Record Enrollment
  • Let's Talk About It: Romantic Willimantic
  • Free Home Ownership Seminar

 

Access Health CT's Record Enrollment

A record number of people enrolled in health and dental plans through Access Health CT for the third consecutive year. More than 157,000 residents signed up for coverage during open enrollment, which ran from November 1, 2025 through January 31, 2026, marking a 4% increase over last year.
 
Enrollment in dental coverage also reached a new high. Access Health CT now provides dental insurance to more than 19,000 people, representing a 9% increase compared to 2025.

This Open Enrollment Period occurred amid several changes at both the state and federal levels. Despite those shifts, Connecticut achieved record-breaking enrollment, thanks in large part to expanded outreach and education efforts that helped connect more residents with the coverage they need.
 
The results underscore Connecticut's continued commitment to expanding access to affordable, quality health care for individuals and families across the state.
 

Let's Talk About It: Romantic Willimantic

We were happy to chat with two local pillars of the community on this week episode of "Let's Talk About It."  
 
We congratulated longtime Willimantic resident Dick Smith after being crowned the 45th Romantic Willimantic Cupid. This recognition is given annually to a resident who continuously displays an unwavering commitment to their community. Smith, whose family has deep roots in town, served as a police officer and state marshal for the court system. Since 2009, Dick and his family have held an annual Stuff-A-Cruiser event where residents donate toys that will go to families in need.  
 
Smith is also the grandfather of Sydney Clements, a past guest on our show and a professor at Eastern Connecticut State University. Sydney, who is heavily involved in the town’s local food system, shared the importance of growing, eating, and buying locally when she joined the show.
Willimantic's first Cupid Wayne Norman joins 2026 Cupid Dick Smith.

Our second guest was Councilman Bill Sayers, who also serves as the Windham Water Works Commissioner and as a voting member of the Windham Sewer Authority. Sayers discussed the water and pipe system development within Windham. He gave us an overview of what the town is doing to ensure our water system remains safe and reliable. Current projects include taking video and pictures to locate and repair any trouble spots in our pipe system. He also shared information about geothermal water systems, hydrant flushing, and more. 

Please click on the video below to listen to the entire show.
Dick Smith, the newest Cupid, discusses his deep ties to Willimantic.
 

Free Home Ownership Seminar

Have you thought about buying a home but feel like there are too many obstacles? The Connecticut Housing Finance Authority is hosting a free seminar in Willimantic next month to empower residents with the tools, information, and confidence to make homeownership achievable.
 
The seminar is happening Tuesday, March 10, from 5:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. at the Windham Senior Center (1 Jillson Square). Registration is required.
 
Participants will learn about:
  • Affordable mortgage programs
  • Down payment assistance opportunities
  • Practical guidance to prepare for purchasing a home

Whether you're just beginning to explore home ownership or ready to buy your first property, this seminar offers valuable insight from trusted experts. CLICK HERE for more information or to register for the event. If you have any questions, send the Connecticut Housing Finance Authority an email at marketing@chfa.org.