Updates from Rep. Chris Poulos for June 19

June 19, 2026

 
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Dear Neighbor,

This week, I had the pleasure of meeting Calvin Vance and his family at the memorial garden at the Southington Fire Department, where I presented him with an official State of Connecticut citation in recognition of attaining the rank of Eagle Scout, the highest honor in Scouting.

For his Eagle Scout project, Calvin led the restoration of the memorial garden honoring Southington firefighters who have passed away. The project included cleaning and revitalizing the garden, replacing plants and landscaping materials, and creating a more welcoming space for reflection and remembrance.

His dedication to preserving this important tribute to our fallen firefighters is a testament to his leadership, initiative, and commitment to community service. I was truly impressed by Calvin's determination and proud to recognize this outstanding accomplishment. Earning the rank of Eagle Scout requires years of hard work, perseverance, and service to others, and Calvin has exemplified those values through his efforts.

Congratulations to Calvin, his family, and Boy Scout Troop 45 on this well-deserved achievement. Best wishes for continued success at the University of New Haven and beyond!
View Project Photos
Read Patch Article

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

Congratulations Class of 2026

Last week, I had the honor of attending Southington High School’s graduation ceremony and it couldn’t have been a more perfect evening. The weather was beautiful, the crowd was proud, and the event ran flawlessly.

Congratulations to all the graduates. You’ve worked hard and earned this moment. Whether you’re heading off to college, the workforce, the military, or another endeavor — I wish you continued success, happiness, and purpose.

Thank you to the Southington High School staff for putting together such a well-coordinated celebration. The Class of 2026 is ready for what’s next — your future is bright, and we’re all cheering you on!
 

Protecting Children on School Buses

I was proud to vote for Senate Bill 508, which will soon be a new law that strengthens protections for children going to and from school by holding drivers accountable when they fail to stop for school buses.

Beginning October 1, 2026, drivers who violate the state’s school bus stopping law for a third time will face a six-month suspension of their driver’s license. Drivers must stop at least 10 feet from the front or back of a school bus displaying its flashing red lights and remain there until the lights are off.

Violations include a $450 fine for the first offense and a fine of $500 to $1,000, up to 30 days in prison, or both for a subsequent offense. This new law adds another important layer of accountability.
Read Press Release
 

Honoring a Hero:
TSGT Donald Arthur Dorman

After 81 years, Southington’s own Tech. Sgt. Donald Arthur Dorman is finally coming home.

A World War II airman who was killed in action and long listed as Missing in Action, TSGT Dorman's remains have now been identified, and he will be laid to rest with full military honors. As a member of the Veterans’ and Military Affairs Committee, I will be honored to attend his homecoming and service.

Service Details:

  • Calling hours: 5:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. on June 22 at Plantsville Funeral Home.
  • Funeral service: 10:00 a.m. on June 23 at First Congregational Church, Southington.
  • Burial with full military honors will follow at Oak Hill Cemetery.
  • A Celebration of Life will immediately follow at The Aqua Turf Club (556 Mulberry Street).
Join the Church Service Virtually
Join the Graveside Service Virtually

The community is invited to join in honoring his extraordinary service and sacrifice. Welcome home, TSGT Dorman.
 

Supporting Connecticut's Seniors

This legislative session, the General Assembly passed several important laws to strengthen protections, transparency, and quality of care for older adults, all of which I was proud to support.

Protecting Seniors from Premium Hikes

Public Act 26-93 makes long-term care insurance more predictable and affordable by limiting unexpected rate hikes, increasing oversight of insurers, and strengthening consumer protections—helping seniors maintain coverage as they approach retirement.

Protecting Residents Through Technology

Public Act 26-28 expands protections for residential care home residents who use virtual monitoring systems, helping families stay connected while safeguarding resident and roommate privacy.

Improving Training for Homemaker Companions

Public Act 26-50 requires annual training for homemaker companion agency employees on dementia care, abuse and neglect prevention, client needs assessment, and hygiene assistance to improve the quality of care for seniors.

Increasing Transparency in Assisted Living

Public Act 26-74 strengthens consumer protections by requiring advance notice of fee increases, hearings for significant rate hikes, and clearer disclosure of service costs and fees.

These bipartisan measures help protect some of our most vulnerable residents while providing families with greater confidence, transparency, and accountability in long-term care settings.
 

Post Session Town Hall

You are invited to join me for a post session town hall and conversation about the issues that matter most to you and our Southington community.

I will meet with constituents at 6:00 p.m. on Tuesday, June 30 at Southington Community Cultural Arts (93 Main Street) in Southington.

This gathering is a great opportunity to hear an update on what we accomplished during the 2026 legislative session, ask questions, provide feedback, and share ideas for future bills. Your input helps shape the work we do at the Capitol.

I hope you will stop by and join the conversation! 
 

Celebrate America 250 in Southington!

As our nation prepares to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, residents have several opportunities to take part in local America 250 celebrations.

June 20 – SOCCA Pottery & Artisan Sale on the Green

Join Celebrate 250 and SOCCA beginning at 10:00 a.m. tomorrow on the Southington Green for a day of community, history, and entertainment. Highlights include a fife and drum corps performance, a noon ceremony featuring a reading of the Declaration of Independence and a 21-gun salute, as well as exhibits and activities from local community organizations.

Visitors can also enjoy pottery and artisan vendors, Jess's Burgers, Mission BBQ, alcohol-free mocktails from Worldwide Wine & Spirits, and displays from the Barnes Museum, Southington Historical Society, and more. The pottery sale runs until approximately 4:00 p.m.

June 20 – Revolutionary War Walking Tour

In between activities on the Town Green, you might consider attending the Revolutionary War walking tour at Oak Hill Cemetery tomorrow, June 20 at 10:00 a.m. This guided visit invites participants to walk among the headstones and learn about the individuals who helped shape their community and contributed to the founding of the nation, leaving behind a lasting legacy that still resonates today. A $10 donation is recommended.

June 29 – Celebrate America 250 with Calendar House

Calendar House will host a patriotic afternoon featuring snacks and a sing-along with the Herron Family Singers on Monday, June 29. This festive program is a wonderful way to celebrate America's 250th anniversary with friends and neighbors. Registration is required. To reserve your spot, call 860-621-3014 or register online.
Register online

I encourage everyone to take part in these special community events as we honor our nation's history and celebrate the values that continue to unite us.
 

Farmers' Market Begins Next Friday

Reminder - The Southington Farmers' Market kicks off on Friday, June 26, from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. on the Town Green and will run every Friday through September 25. I encourage you to stop by and support our downtown community. From fresh produce to local goods, the market is always worth the visit—speaking from personal experience!
 

10th Annual Head First Scramble

Reminder - Support a great cause while enjoying a fun day of golf at the 10th Annual Head First Scramble, benefiting USA Skeleton athlete Austin Florian as he prepares for another World Cup season.

The event will take place on Saturday, July 11 with an 8:30 a.m. shotgun start. Registration opens at 7:30 a.m. There will be a four-person scramble format, followed by a buffet, awards reception, and raffle.

More than just a golf outing, this event is a meaningful opportunity to support a dedicated local athlete as he continues competing on the world stage and pursues his long-term dream of representing Team USA at the 2030 Olympic Winter Games in the French Alps. Gather your friends, enjoy a great day on the course, and help champion one of our community’s outstanding athletes.
Register here!
 

Southington Symphonic Band
Summer Concert

Reminder- The Southington Symphonic Band will present its Summer 2026 Concert on Monday, June 22 at 7:00 p.m. at the Southington High School auditorium.

This year’s program celebrates the music of John Williams, featuring selections such as The Imperial March, Adventures on Earth (E.T.), Rey’s Theme, Harry’s Wondrous World, and more.
 
Admission is free—no tickets are required, and donations will be accepted at the door.
 
The Southington Symphonic Band, directed by former SHS band director Jeff Shaw, brings together local musicians, educators, alumni, and community members.
 
More information
 

Happy Father’s Day

Wishing all the dads, stepdads, grandfathers, and father figures in our community a Happy Father’s Day! Thank you for the love, guidance, and strength you bring to your families and to our town every day.
 

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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