Somers Department of Veterans Affairs

Somers Department of Veterans Affairs to Host FREE Veterans Benefits Seminar

The Somers Department of Veterans Affairs will host a free Veterans Benefits Seminar on Thursday, September 17, 2026, from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the Somers Town Hall Auditorium, 600 Main Street, Somers, Connecticut.
The seminar will be conducted by highly trained Disabled American Veterans (DAV) National Service Officers
and is intended to help veterans better understand the federal benefits they may have earned through their military service.
Veterans, spouses, family members, surviving family members, and caregivers are strongly encouraged to attend. Family members and caregivers often play an important role in helping veterans identify medical conditions, gather records, document changes in health, and navigate the VA claims process.
Veterans who are considering filing an original claim, seeking an increased disability evaluation, pursuing pension benefits, or addressing a previously denied claim are encouraged to bring as much relevant documentation as possible.
Helpful documents may include:
<ul>
 <li>DD-214 or other military discharge or separation documents</li>
 <li>Military personnel and service treatment records, if available</li>
 <li>VA rating decisions and other correspondence from the Department of Veterans Affairs</li>
 <li>Medical records from VA and private healthcare providers</li>
 <li>A current list of medical conditions, medications, and treating physicians</li>
 <li>Medical opinions or statements connecting a condition to military service</li>
 <li>Records concerning injuries, illnesses, hazardous exposures, or traumatic events during service</li>
 <li>Statements from spouses, family members, fellow service members, friends, or caregivers who have firsthand knowledge of the veteran’s condition</li>
 <li>Employment records or other evidence showing how a disability affects the veteran’s ability to work</li>
 <li>Information concerning household income, medical expenses, and dependents when seeking a VA pension or other income-based benefit</li>
</ul>
Veterans should also bring government-issued identification and their Social Security number or other information necessary to identify their VA record.
A DD-214 discharge certificate is particularly important because it documents a veteran’s period of service and character of discharge and may be needed to establish eligibility for benefits. Veterans who cannot locate their DD-214 should still attend; service officers can provide guidance concerning how military records may be obtained.
The seminar provides an opportunity for veterans and their families to speak with experienced service officers about potential entitlement to benefits and the type of evidence that may be needed to support a claim.
Veterans are encouraged not to assume that they are ineligible simply because a condition developed years after military service or because a previous claim was denied. Depending upon the individual circumstances, benefits may be available for conditions directly related to military service, conditions caused or aggravated by an already service-connected disability, certain presumptive conditions, toxic exposures, and other qualifying circumstances.
The event is free of charge, and family members and caregivers are welcome to attend with the veteran.
Event Information
Veterans Benefits Seminar 
Thursday, September 17, 2026 
9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. 
Somers Town Hall Auditorium 
600 Main Street 
Somers, CT 06071
*PLEASE FILL OUT THE ATTENDENCE SIGN IN SHEET AT THE ENTRANCE
Hosted by: Somers Department of Veterans Affairs 
Presented by: Disabled American Veterans National Service Officers
For additional information, contact the Somers Department of Veterans Affairs at <a href="mailto:Veterans@SomersCT.gov">Veterans@SomersCT.gov</a>.
About the Seminar
The goal of the Veterans Benefits Seminar is to ensure that veterans and their families have access to knowledgeable assistance and understand the benefits and services potentially available to them because of honorable military service.
Veterans do not have to navigate the VA benefits system alone. Bringing family members, caregivers, and available documentation can help service officers obtain a more complete understanding of the veteran’s circumstances and identify the evidence that may be needed to pursue a claim.

Local Event: FREE DAV Benefits Seminar in Somers, CT

Tolland County

Ellington-Somers

Connecticut

FREE DAV Benefits Seminar in Somers, CT

Somers Department of Veterans Affairs to Host FREE Veterans Benefits Seminar

The Somers Department of Veterans Affairs will...

RSVP&nbsp;Early! John Scully shares his experience, strength and hope through his book "Visited Mom Today". Scully's book offers profound insights into connecting with loved ones suffering from Alzheimer's and dementia and the importance of engaging with them in their world!

Local Event: Dementia Dialogue Book Event with John Scully!

Dementia Dialogue Book Event with John Scully!

RSVP Early! John Scully shares his experience, strength and hope through his book "Visited Mom Today". Scully's book offers...

Connecticut Department of Veterans Affairs

CT Veterans, Active Duty, National Guard and Reserve military Personnel and immediate family are welcome to attend. **Please bring DD-214, VA Card or CT ID with Veteran identifier as proof of Veteran status



SERVICES AVAILABLEHealth &amp; Wellness, Veterans Benefits, Mental Health, VA Healthcare, Clothing, Employment, Housing Resources, Medical Screenings, Personal Care Items, Education, Legal, and Social Services















Contact: 860-616-3772&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;standdown@ct.gov&nbsp; For more information, scan the QR code on the attached flyer.<h3>About Somers Department of Veterans Affairs</h3>
The Somers Department of Veterans Affairs provides free, confidential assistance to veterans, service members, families, and caregivers. For benefits support, advocacy, and outreach coordination, contact the Department at Veterans@somersct.gov.

Local Event: CT Veterans Affairs Stand Down 2026 Across Six State-Wide Locations

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St Martha's PreSchool

<a href="https://www.facebook.com/share/1B2jAhxteZ/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">K of C Council 14600 Annual Outdoor Craft Festival &amp; Car Show</a>
Ordinary people with extraordinary talents!!
Rain Rain or Shine
65 Unique &amp; Talented Crafters
Custom Tees 
Art 
Baked Goods 
Face Painting 
Hand-beaded items 
Candles 
Skin Care Products 
Pampered Chef 
Baby items – Knitted &amp; Crocheted 
Freeze Dried Treats 
Dirty Sip Society – nonalcoholic mixes 
Jewelry 
Watkins Spices 
Precious Stones 
Obsessed Hair Tinsel 
While You Wait Wire Name Jewelry 
Paper Flowers 
Soaps 
Wooden Signs by Lu 
Engraved Cutting Boards 
Bird, Owl &amp; Bat Houses 
Stained Glass 
Wreaths 
Easy to Grow House Plants

Local Event: K of C Council 14600 Annual OUTDOOR Harvest Craft Festival & Car Show

Hartford County

Enfield

K of C Council 14600 Annual OUTDOOR Harvest...

K of C Council 14600 Annual Outdoor Craft Festival & Car Show
Ordinary people with extraordinary talents!!
Rain Rain or...

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Ellington Historical Society

The Annual Fall Festival at the Nellie McKnight Museum will take place on Saturday, September 19, from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Bring the whole family for a fun-filled morning celebrating the arrival of autumn with activities that children and adults alike will enjoy.Kids can create their very own scarecrow to take home. Bring some clothing and we will provide the straw. Explore a real monster truck, and enjoy a variety of free children's activities throughout the day. Whether you're welcoming fall with family, making new memories, or simply enjoying a beautiful September morning, the Fall Festival offers something for everyone.&nbsp;Join the Ellington Historical Society at the Nellie McKnight Museum for this festive community celebration—you won't want to miss it!

Local Event: Welcome Fall Festival

Welcome Fall Festival

The Annual Fall Festival at the Nellie McKnight Museum will take place on Saturday, September 19, from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m....

Ellington Farmers Market

Wovens and Wearables at the Ellington Farmers Market
Join us for a special market featuring guest vendors selling beautifully woven, sewn, and upcycled apparel, bags, accessories, and more. It's the perfect chance to find something unique while supporting local makers and craftspeople.
Fall produce is in full swing, with a fantastic variety of winter squash, greens, pumpkins, apples, and more filling the market tables. Enjoy a crisp fall morning sipping hot coffee, listening to free live music, and shopping the best of local and fresh.
Saturday, September 19 | 9am–noon | Market Park, 72 Maple St, Ellington

Local Event: Wovens & Wearables at the Ellington Farmers Market

Wovens & Wearables at the Ellington Farmers Market

Wovens and Wearables at the Ellington Farmers Market
Join us for a special market featuring guest vendors selling beautifully...

Maple Street & Pinney Road

Ye Olde Blacksmith Shoppe will be open Saturdays through October from 9:30- 2. The Shoppe, operated by the Ladies Aide Society of the Congregational Church of Somersville, offers a wide variety of new and gently used items at very affordable prices.&nbsp; Come check out the inventory including tools, books, games, jigsaw puzzles, household items, small sized furniture, some antiques,&nbsp; - something for everyone! Donations are always welcome - speak with Mitch or Carolyn at the Shoppe. A limited supply of baked goods are also offered. The Shoppe is located at the intersection of Maple St. &amp; Pinney Road.&nbsp;

Local Event: Ye Olde Blacksmith Shoppe

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Ye Olde Blacksmith Shoppe will be open Saturdays through October from 9:30- 2. The Shoppe, operated by the Ladies Aide Society...

The Somers Department of Veterans Affairs will host a special “Stories from Service” Veterans Coffeehouse on Saturday, September 26, 2026, from 8:30 to 11:00 a.m. at the Somers Town Hall Auditorium, 600 Main St., Somers, Connecticut.
Rather than featuring a traditional guest speaker, this month’s Coffeehouse will put the spotlight on the veterans in attendance.
Beginning at 9:15 a.m., veteran attendees will be invited to take the microphone and share a brief story, memory, lesson, or experience from their military service. Each speaker will have up to three minutes.
Stories may be serious, humorous, reflective, or simply memorable. Veterans may choose to talk about a favorite duty station, an unforgettable adventure, a funny moment, a lesson learned, a mentor, a moment of camaraderie, or another experience that has stayed with them over the years.
Veterans who prefer not to speak are also encouraged to attend, listen, reconnect with others, and enjoy the fellowship.
Program
8:30–9:00 a.m. — Coffee, sign-in and fellowship 9:00–9:15 a.m. — Welcome, opening remarks and announcements 9:15–11:00 a.m. — Open mic: veteran attendee speakers, 3 minutes each 11:00 a.m. — Clean-up; volunteers needed
Free beverages and snacks will be available, and attendees are encouraged to bring a friend.
The Veterans Coffeehouse is intended to provide a welcoming setting where veterans from all generations and branches of service can connect, share experiences, and strengthen the bonds of fellowship within the veteran community.
All veterans are welcome. Family members, caregivers, and friends are encouraged to attend.
Event Information
Stories From Service — Veterans Story Circle &amp; Open Mic Morning Saturday, September 26, 2026 8:30 a.m.–11:00 a.m. Somers Town Hall Auditorium 600 Main St., Somers, CT
Sponsored by the Somers Department of Veterans Affairs.

Local Event: Somers Veterans Coffeehouse to Host “Stories from Service”  

Somers Veterans Coffeehouse to Host “Stories...

The Somers Department of Veterans Affairs will host a special “Stories from Service” Veterans Coffeehouse on Saturday,...

Somers Veterans Coffeehouse to Host “Stories from Service”  

Edible Animals Contest at the Ellington Farmers Market
Get creative and enter our Edible Animals Contest! Build an animal using fruits and vegetables and bring your masterpiece to the market for a chance to win. It's free to enter and a super fun, creative, family-friendly activity for all ages.
Here's how it works: entries should arrive at the market by 9am, customers vote all morning long for their favorites, and winners are announced at 11:45am. Winners do not need to be present to win!
While you're here, shop 50+ vendors offering local and fresh produce, protein, baked and artisanal goods, gluten-free and vegan options, and more. Bring a date, a friend, the family, or just yourself, and get out of the house for a wonderful small-town morning.
Saturday, September 26 | 9am–noon | Market Park, 72 Maple St, Ellington

Local Event: Edible Animals Contest at the Ellington Farmers Market

Edible Animals Contest at the Ellington Farmers...

Edible Animals Contest at the Ellington Farmers Market
Get creative and enter our Edible Animals Contest! Build an animal using...

Edible Animals Contest at the Ellington Farmers Market

Ellington Ridge Country Club

Registration is now open to play in the St. Luke Church 24th Annual Golf Tournament being held on Monday September 28, 2026 at the Ellington Ridge Country Club.

Local Event: St. Luke Church 24th Annual Golf Tournament

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Registration is now open to play in the St. Luke Church 24th Annual Golf Tournament being held on Monday September 28, 2026 at...

Somers Public Library

The Fall Used Book Sale, sponsored by the Somers Friends of the Library, will be held the weekend of October 16 to October 18 at the Somers Public Library on Vision Blvd in Somers. Mark your calendars! More information will be posted soon.&nbsp; Happy Reading!

Local Event: Friends of the Somers Library Fall Used Book Sale

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The Fall Used Book Sale, sponsored by the Somers Friends of the Library, will be held the weekend of October 16 to October 18...

Patriots Park

CT VETERANS DAY&nbsp;RACEThe CT Veterans Day Race is a 4‑mile run, 3‑mile walk, and 3‑mile ruck event (live or virtual) held on Saturday, November 7, 2026, at Patriots Park, 124 Lake St, Coventry, CT, with all proceeds benefiting Connecticut veteran service organizations.&nbsp; &nbsp;<a href="https://www.ctveteransdayrace.com" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">ctveteransdayrace.com</a>Event Overview Date: Saturday, November 7, 2026 

Location: Patriots Park, Coventry, CT (starts/ends at the park; course passes the Memorial Green, Connecticut Vietnam Memorial, and Captain Nathan Hale Monument) <a href="https://www.ctveteransdayrace.com" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank"></a><a href="https://www.ctveteransdayrace.com" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank"></a>
4‑mile run (live or virtual)

3‑mile walk (live or virtual)
3‑mile ruck (live or virtual) — participants carry non‑perishable food or essential items in a backpack; items are donated to veteran food pantries or “Backpacks for Life” program <a href="https://www.ctveteransdayrace.com" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank"></a><a href="https://www.ctveteransdayrace.com" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank"></a>
Start time: 10:00 a.m. after a 9:45 a.m. patriotic opening ceremony <a href="https://www.ctveteransdayrace.com" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank"></a><a href="https://www.ctveteransdayrace.com" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank"></a>
Awards: 11:00 a.m. <a href="https://www.ctveteransdayrace.com" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank"></a><a href="https://www.ctveteransdayrace.com" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank"></a>
Purpose &amp; Beneficiaries The race honors Connecticut veterans and raises funds for veteran service organizations, including support for homeless veterans Proceeds also fund:
Vittles for Veterans program (non‑perishable food donations)
Backpacks for Life program (daily essentials for homeless veterans) <a href="https://www.ctveteransdayrace.com" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank"></a><a href="https://www.ctveteransdayrace.com" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank"></a>
How to Participate Register: Live or virtual options available via the official site <a href="https://www.ctveteransdayrace.com" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank"></a>
Sponsor/Donate: Businesses and individuals can sponsor, donate goods, or volunteer <a href="https://www.ctveteransdayrace.com" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank"></a><a href="https://www.ctveteransdayrace.com" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank"></a>
Spectate: Cheer along the scenic 4‑mile course <a href="https://www.ctveteransdayrace.com" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank"></a><a href="https://www.ctveteransdayrace.com" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank"></a>
The ruck course is a low‑intensity walk with added weight; participants are encouraged to include charitable items. <a href="https://www.ctveteransdayrace.com" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank"></a><a href="https://www.ctveteransdayrace.com" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank"></a> The event is open to the public; participants can also join as sponsors, volunteers, or patriotic spectators <a href="https://www.ctveteransdayrace.com" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank"></a>Official site &amp; registration:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ctveteransdayrace.com" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">ctveteransdayrace.com</a> <a href="https://www.ctveteransdayrace.com" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank"></a><a href="https://www.ctveteransdayrace.com" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank"></a>RunSignup event page: <a href="https://runsignup.com/Race/CT/Coventry/Coventry" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank"> CT Veterans Day Race</a> <a href="https://www.ctveteransdayrace.com" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank"></a>



 This is a unique opportunity to honor veterans, support local causes, and enjoy a community‑focused, patriotic event in Coventry.

Local Event: CT Veterans Day Race — Coventry, CT

CT Veterans Day Race — Coventry, CT

CT VETERANS DAY RACEThe CT Veterans Day Race is a 4‑mile run, 3‑mile walk, and 3‑mile ruck event (live or virtual) held on...

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Superior Screening LLC is a professional screen repair and i

Superior Screening LLC

Superior Screening LLC is a professional screen repair and installation service based in Ellington, Connecticut. Established in 2025, the company provides convenient mobile on-site services to residential homes and apartment complexes throughout the local area. By bringing their expertise directly to the client, they eliminate the need for customers to drop off their screens for maintenance. The business specializes in a comprehensive range of screen solutions, including repairs for windows, doors, and patios. Whether addressing small tears or performing complete replacements, they offer expert craftsmanship to restore functionality to your home. Additionally, they provide custom fabrication services, taking precise measurements to construct new, perfectly fitted screens for windows that currently lack them. Customers can expect a streamlined experience focused on quality results and professional service. You can easily reach the team to discuss your specific needs or schedule an appointment by calling or texting 860-372-0280.

Superior Screening LLC is a professional screen repair and installation service based in Ellington, Connecticut. Established in 2025, the company...

Talaga Construction - Building the Future, Brick by Brick

Talaga Construction

More than just construction Discover the legacy of Talaga Construction. With over 50 years of experience, Butch has established a rock-solid reputation in masonry. Learn more about our commitment to quality and dependable service for homeowners and businesses in Manchester, Connecticut, and beyond. A foundation built on experience At Talaga Construction, our foundation is built on decades of hands-on experience. Butch's expertise in masonry is the cornerstone of our commitment to delivering exceptional results. We serve both homeowners and businesses, providing reliable and high-quality construction services. Our promise to you When you choose Talaga Construction, you're choosing a partner you can count on. We approach every project, whether it's masonry or concrete, with unwavering dedication to quality and reliability. Your satisfaction is our top priority. We serve both homeowners and businesses in Manchester and the surrounding areas. Specializing in masonry and concrete Talaga Construction specializes in masonry and concrete projects, ensuring structural integrity and lasting beauty. From intricate brickwork to durable concrete foundations, we bring expertise and precision to every job. Explore our portfolio to see examples of our quality craftsmanship.

More than just construction Discover the legacy of Talaga Construction. With over 50 years of experience, Butch has established a rock-solid...

Spring is coming so come by and get your nails done!

Vernon Nails

Hello Vernon, we're the new owners of Vernon Nails located right across from Vernon Pizza. We're a small nail salon offering many fume-free services. We've got over 20 years of experience in this business and are excited to provide our service to the Vernon Community! Visit our google page and give us a call!

Hello Vernon, we're the new owners of Vernon Nails located right across from Vernon Pizza. We're a small nail salon offering many fume-free...

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Events and Things to Do in Ellington-Somers, CT

Saturday, September 19

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