Updates from Rep. Chris Poulos for July 17

July 17, 2026

 
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Dear Neighbor,

It was a pleasure to volunteer at the Joe & Kay Calvanese Foundation's Reds, Whites & Brews Festival at the Aqua Turf Club!

This year’s event brought together more than 60 beverage vendors, great food, live entertainment, games, and community members—all to support the foundation’s charitable efforts.

For nearly 30 years, Joe & Kay Calvanese have helped strengthen our community by supporting local nonprofits, schools, scholarships, and charitable programs serving Southington. It was inspiring to see so many people come together to raise funds that will continue making a difference right here at home.

A big thank you to the Calvanese Foundation, Worldwide Wine & Spirits, the volunteers, vendors, sponsors, and everyone who attended for making this year's patriotic Reds, Whites & Brews Festival a great success!

Please continue reading below for other noteworthy items, and thanks as always for taking the time to read them!
 

Honoring Southington's First Responders

I had the opportunity to thank Southington's first responders for their dedicated service to our community and to listen to their legislative priorities. It was rewarding to hear directly from the men and women who work every day to keep our residents safe.

The event took place on National Hot Dog Day, so we celebrated by eating some tasty treats from Saint's Restaurant. A special thank you to Della Vecchia Funeral Home for hosting this wonderful gathering and supporting our local first responders.
 

Responsible Budgeting Delivers
Another Budget Surplus

Connecticut has ended the fiscal year with a budget surplus for the eighth consecutive year, demonstrating that responsible budgeting and adherence to our state's fiscal guardrails continue to deliver results.

According to State Comptroller Sean Scanlon, Connecticut closed the fiscal year with a $411.7 million General Fund surplus and a $22.7 million Special Transportation Fund surplus.

This strong fiscal position allows Connecticut to continue making smart investments while protecting taxpayers. Under state law, surplus funds will also help strengthen Connecticut's Early Childhood Endowment, creating a long-term funding source to expand access to affordable, high-quality early childhood education and support working families.

By making responsible financial decisions today, we're ensuring Connecticut remains well-positioned to invest in priorities like education, transportation, public safety, and other essential services while planning for the future.
Read the Office of the State Comptroller's latest economic update
 

Viva l'Italia

The entire family can enjoy a delicious assortment of food and fun activities at the Southington Italian-American Festival from July 24-26 on Lower Center Street. Shout out to the Sons of Italy, UNICO Club, and Sorelle d’Italia for organizing the event, which will include fireworks, BINGO, an Italian Marketplace, Sunday morning outdoor Italian Mass, a great lineup of music, and so much more. Viva l'Italia!
Click here for more information
 

More Swim Lessons Available for Kids

Starting next week, the Town of Southington Recreation Department is offering its second round of swim lessons at Memorial Park Pool and Recreation Park Pool. The program is available to children ages 5 and up who live in Southington. Registration is $70 per child, and all classes will be held from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Please read the graphic below for more information. 
 

Puzzle Swap

Reminder - Calling all puzzle enthusiasts! If you've completed your favorite jigsaw puzzles and are ready for a new challenge, stop by the Puzzle Swap at Southington Public Library on Friday, July 24, from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Bring up to five adult jigsaw puzzles you've already finished, and swap each one for a new-to-you puzzle. To participate, please ensure your puzzles are:

  • Designed for adults
  • In good condition
  • In their original box
  • Complete with no missing pieces

No registration is required—just bring your puzzles and enjoy discovering your next great challenge!
 

Honoring Nelson Mandela Day

Saturday, July 18 marks Nelson Mandela International Day, a time to honor the life and legacy of a leader who dedicated himself to justice, equality, and reconciliation.
 
Mandela reminded us that lasting change begins with service to others. It’s an opportunity for each of us to make a positive difference in our own community, whether by volunteering, supporting a local nonprofit, helping a neighbor, or performing a simple act of kindness.
 

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!

Sincerely,

Chris Poulos
State Representative  
 

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