Updates from State Rep. Travis Simms for March 28, 2025

March 28, 2025



 

 

I first want to take a moment to say how shocked and saddened I was to hear of the passing of former U.S. Rep Mia Love. 

I attended Norwalk High School with Mia and, while we may have had our political differences, she was a friend and a proud member of the community.

Her journey from our hometown to becoming mayor of Sarasota Springs to serving in Congress was remarkable; she made history and paved the way for many.

My condolences to her family and loved ones. May her memory be a blessing. 
 

Recognition of Women's History Month

Speaking of trailblazing women, I want to recognize five outstanding members of the business community during Women's History Month. They have made their own local history through their tireless efforts to improve our community. 

1. Darlene Wilson - New Image Hair Salon

New Image Hair Salon holds the distinction of being the longest-serving salon in Norwalk history. Under Darlene Wilson’s leadership, it has not only provided top-tier hair care but has also served as a training ground for many young and aspiring professionals. Through mentorship and hands-on experience, she has empowered countless individuals to build confidence and even open their own salons.
 

2. Elpida, Glika, and Ioanna Hatziioannidis of Caffé Social

Owned by sisters Elpida, Glika, and Ioanna Hatziioannidis, Caffé Social has been a vibrant part of our community since its opening in Spring 2017. Known for its welcoming atmosphere, delicious food, and energizing coffee and tea selections, it has become a favorite spot for residents and visitors alike.
 

3. Melody “Sweets” Green-Ragin of SoNo Entertainment & Recording Studio

Melody “Sweets” Green-Ragin is making a significant impact by teaching children, young adults, and aspiring artists the intricacies of the music and entertainment industries. Through SoNo Entertainment & Recording Studio, she is providing invaluable education and hands-on experience, helping to shape the next generation of creatives.

Congratulations and thank you to these five women; their contributions to Norwalk are invaluable and their recognition is much-deserved.
 

Legislative Updates

Committee work for this session is winding down. A number of bills I introduced or co-sponsored were approved out of committee, meaning they will be considered by the larger legislative body going forward. Those bills address issues such as equitable housing policies in the state, criminal justice reform and Medicaid expansion. 

I will keep you posted on the progress of these bills as the session continues.
 

Poster Competition

The CT Coalition for Climate Action has announced the second annual Climate Change Student Poster Contest! This is an opportunity for students to engage creatively with important environmental issues and raise awareness about the impact of climate change on our planet.

Students and finalists are invited to the judging at the Capitol on May 28 between 12–2:30 p.m. Semi-finalists will be displayed at the state Capitol, and the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place posters will receive a scholarship this year.

The deadline for submissions is May 1 and submissions can be emailed to CTClimateActionCoalition@gmail.com.

Please contact Lisa Winkler at 860-614-6102, lisa@grassrootsct.com, or Tricia Dinneen Priebe at 203-464-3793, tricia@grassrootsct.com, if you have any questions or need any additional information.

You may also visit the Coalition website at www.climateactionct.org.
 

Brain Aneurysm Walk

The Brain Aneurysm Foundation Connecticut is having a walk on April 12 at Dunkin' Park in Hartford from 8 to 11:30 a.m.

Registration is $35. 

Join a community of those who have been affected and contribute to lifesaving advancements in the treatment, detection, and prevention of brain aneurysms. 

For more information and to register, click here.

Brain Aneurysm Facts 

  • One in 50 People in the U.S. has an unruptured brain aneurysm, and the rate of rupture is 8 to 10 in 100,000 annually. About 30,000 people in the United States suffer a brain aneurysm rupture each year.
  • A brain aneurysm ruptures every 18 minutes in the U.S.
  • There are almost 500,000 deaths worldwide each year caused by brain aneurysms, and half the victims are younger than 50.
  • Brain aneurysms are most prevalent in people ages 35 to 60 but can occur in children as well.
  • Most aneurysms develop after the age of 40.
  • Women are more likely than men to have a brain aneurysm (3:2 ratio). Women, particularly those over the age of 55, have a higher risk of brain aneurysm rupture than men (about 1.5 times the risk).
  • African Americans and Hispanics are about twice as likely to have a brain aneurysm rupture compared to Caucasians.
 

As always, feel free to call me at 1-800-842-8267 or email me at Travis.Simms@cga.ct.gov if you have any questions or concerns. Also, please like my official Facebook Page for regular updates.

Sincerely,

Travis Simms
State Representative

Website
Website

Email
Email

Facebook
Facebook

Forward to a friend | Unsubscribe from this list | Update subscription preferences