Updates from State Rep. Farley Santos for Aug. 22, 2025

August 22, 2025

A couple of incidents in Connecticut, one at the Danbury courthouse, the other involving my good friend and colleague Rep. Corey Paris, concerning ICE and immigration enforcement that have me asking two questions: Who are we? Who do we want to be?

Our immigrant neighbors are part of the very fabric of Danbury, Connecticut and the nation. I, along with Mayor Alves, were once undocumented immigrants. We experienced the fear, the silence and constant uncertainty that these families currently face.

Meanwhile, Rep. Paris is a tireless advocate who serves with integrity and heart, always working to uplift the communities he represents. To see him targeted with hateful rhetoric and even death threats is deeply disturbing and absolutely unacceptable. No one who chooses a life of public service should ever face that kind of danger.

There is no place for hatred, vitriol, or violence in our politics, it’s simply un-American. We can and should debate passionately on policy, but threats and intimidation have no place in our public discourse, ever.

I condemn the tactics and fear that the federal administration has brought to our community, our state and our country. I will continue to work to protect and defend the people of Danbury and Connecticut.

San Gennaro Festival

There's no easy segue from the sometimes dire news coming from the federal level to all of the wonderful things going on in Danbury, of which there are plenty.

For example, the San Gennaro Festival is officially underway! It was my pleasure to recognize Antonia “Tonina” Chieffalo, the 2025 Grand Marshal, with city and state proclamations for her many years of devotion to Danbury and the Italian American community—she is truly deserving of this honor.

A big shoutout to the organizers for bringing this incredible tradition to downtown Danbury. You never know who you’ll see down there. Make sure to say hello to my guy, Nicky Zooks. Stop by CityCenter Green now through Sunday for great food, live music, and plenty of community fun.

Downtown Progress

Checking on all the exciting progress downtown. And of course, we had to stop at Blend and Brew for a Green Vitality boost! Picked up Councilman Barry Rickert along the way—great to see so much moving forward in Danbury, with even more on the horizon!

Danbury High School - West Ribbon Cutting

I got to witness a historic day in Danbury: The ribbon has been cut at Danbury High School - West!

The biggest thanks go to our incredible teachers and staff, who are bringing this dream to life for our students every single day.

This vision became reality thanks to Superintendent Kara Casimiro, city staff who worked tirelessly to deliver this project on time, the volunteers who made the referendum possible, and the partnership of Rizzo Corporation and Friar Associates. And when funding fell short, Mayor Alves and our state delegation stepped up — fighting to secure tens of millions of dollars more and higher state reimbursements. We received the support of state leadership and the Governor.

It was tough work, but it got done.

This is the best investment we can make in our children and our city—and the greatest legacy we can leave behind. Really proud of this!

Congrats to the Hannas!

For more than three decades, Hanna’s MidEastern Restaurant has been a place where food and community came together. John and Maha Hanna didn’t just serve incredible Lebanese dishes, they created a gathering spot where friendships were made and cultures were shared.
As they prepare for retirement, it was a privilege to recognize John with a General Assembly’s citation for the countless ways he and Maha have enriched Danbury.

Their legacy is more than just a restaurant, it’s the warmth, generosity, and sense of belonging they brought to so many. Wishing them all the happiness this next chapter brings.

VFW Picnic

This year’s Danbury VFW Post 149 Annual Picnic was better than ever, thanks to the new Pig Roast, a huge hit with everyone! Proud as always to support the Post and be part of such a strong, connected community. Shoutout to the Veterans at the post who work so hard for the community.

WWII Remembrance Ceremony

I attended Danbury’s WWII Remembrance Ceremony last week, the first without a living WWII veteran present, a sad and sobering reality. As Mayor Alves said, it was the generation that defeated fascism and hatred. Now, as division and fear rise again in our community, we must remember their sacrifice and protect the freedoms they fought for!

Let’s not let history repeat itself.

Grillin' and Chillin'

Grillin’ & Chillin’ at the Senior Center was a hit thanks to the city of Danbury Police Department! They fired up the grill and made hot dogs and burgers (shoutout to Omaha Beef) and rolled in the “Copsicle” truck for sweet treats. Kudos to the Senior Center for always hosting such great events

Beetlejuice, Beetlejuice ... uh...

Fun opening night of "Beetlejuice Jr."! Congrats to the talented cast and crew. We enjoyed every minute.

Sales Tax-Free Week

Connecticut's annual Sales Tax-Free Week runs through Saturday, Aug. 23. It provides a chance to save money, whether it is taking the kids back-to-school shopping or treating yourself or your loved ones.

Highlights of Sales Tax-Free Week

Sales or purchases of certain items of clothing or footwear costing less than $100 per item are exempt from Connecticut's 6.35% sales tax.
Sales Tax-Free Week applies to purchases made in-store, online, mail-order, and over the phone.
This special exemption applies to purchases made from retailers located in Connecticut as well as from online retailers.

This is Connecticut's 26th Sales Tax Free Week.

A list of exempt and taxable items during Sales Tax-Free Week can be found here.

A list of FAQs can be found here.