"Our Town, Our Story: An Ellington Timeline.

Tolland County

Jay Kenney

Hartford Metropolitan Area

Ellington-Somers

Connecticut

Our Town, Our Story: An Ellington Timeline

"Our Town, Our Story: An Ellington Timeline.

A Message from Jacquelyn Hayes-Byrd, Executive Director, Center for Women Veterans
<h2>Dear Sister Veterans,</h2>
At the Center for Women Veterans, our mission has always been clear, to advocate for improved outcomes and access to VA benefits, services, and opportunities for women Veterans through education, outreach, and collaboration.&nbsp; Our Vision is to enroll, empower, and encourage women Veterans to trust and choose VA.
I want to personally reassure you that your voices matter, your concerns are heard, and your experiences are important to us, to me.
There are times when personal issues raised by Sister Veterans are not answered publicly through social media or open forums but just know that this does not mean they are being ignored. In all cases, the most meaningful work happens behind the scenes, through direct conversations, engagement, and discussions with the right people within VA to create real solutions.
With more than 2 million women Veterans, I am honored to serve this incredible women Veteran community. I have dedicated countless hours, often spending two hours or more at a time, speaking with and following up to ensure the safety and well-being of women Veterans who need help, support, guidance, or simply someone to listen. I welcome these conversations, because every person and every voice matters. The Center for Women Veterans takes every concern seriously, and we approach each one with care, urgency, and respect.
Given the large number of women Veterans we serve, some concerns can be addressed quickly, while others require more time and collaboration to connect with the right individuals or resources needed for lasting change. Although we may not be able to provide an immediate solution to every issue, we are committed to working diligently and thoughtfully to address each concern and to continually improve the care and support all women Veterans deserve.
I encourage each of you to continue empowering you and your Sister Veterans to come to VA, ask questions, seek support, attend the regional enrollment summits and claim the benefits you&rsquo;ve earned and deserve. You can help another woman Veteran take the first step toward improving her life by encouraging her to seek VA health care, benefits and services.&nbsp; Do your best to softly encourage your Battle Buddy to go with you to get her support.
What I don&rsquo;t want is for conversations to become discouraging or negative, causing some women Veterans to hesitate to seek help or miss opportunities that could change their future for the better. Let&rsquo;s continue lifting one another up, sharing trusted information, and building a stronger community together.
If you need us, we&rsquo;re here. We will connect you to with trusted people who know how to care for and help you.&nbsp; We will also give you the right people, resources and tools to help you make informed decisions to make the best choices for your personal situation.&nbsp; Do not hesitate to reach out securely through <a href="https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.va.gov%2Fcontact-us%2Fask-va%2Fintroduction/1/0100019db20dde25-430b7cdf-ac01-47eb-97c9-cbd322fa1509-000000/y8DhMbBmoTtPl3rD335V94mPQwXAPbtziOX8Op2aF_c=451" target="_blank" rel="noopener nofollow">AskVA</a> at <a href="https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.va.gov%2Fcontact-us%2Fask-va%2Fintroduction/2/0100019db20dde25-430b7cdf-ac01-47eb-97c9-cbd322fa1509-000000/LyJt-M0QbVdCGF4hfRt1h-VzsFbBD9D7Q2CSIZr9UGo=451" target="_blank" rel="noopener nofollow">https://www.va.gov/contact-us/ask-va/introduction</a> and select Women Veterans.
- We are here.
- We are listening.
- And we remain committed to serving and you.
I want to see all of you at one of our reginal summits &ndash; they are FREE, you just have to get yourself there! Please continue to read our newsletters and follow us on social media, Facebook and X @VAWomenVets for more summit information.&nbsp; If you are in or plan to be in the San Antonio, TX area on July 24 and 25, 2026, please register for our first event.&nbsp; We&rsquo;re bringing your VA support system to you.
Looking forward to seeing you soon!
<img src="https://ci3.googleusercontent.com/meips/ADKq_NZlAVKrCNTxmMfcgVoQ0aCOUEhYUIi-QiH2XVhMFpEsKsDYMegSkcGhjPFIdaWYeyQoNaVK4uPcLCVYOWTN4XEk9InHfUQMLSjCFATSQj6CLovRTRsFZPknuqbEe9j_KlQoKa9JE45rmzp9X8H_4fK568jE17wajkx2kdruklA=s0-d-e1-ft#https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/USVA/2025/05/11607980/6189192/signature_crop.png" alt="Signature"><h2>WHAT</h2>
VA Center for Women Veterans (CWV) in partnership with the Office of Women&rsquo;s Health (OWH) launched the Women Veterans Enrollment Initiative: &ldquo;Boots on the Ground for Boots on the Ground,&rdquo; a series of five regional summits, bringing VA services directly to women Veterans in their communities.
<h2>WHEN</h2>
The first summit will be held Friday, July 24, 2026, and Saturday, July 25, 2026.Four additional regional summits will follow, with the final event in May 2027 (date and locations TBD).

<h2>WHERE</h2>
First Summit: Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center, San Antonio, Texas (serving Veterans from Texas, Arizona, New Mexico, and Oklahoma). Future summits will reach additional regions across the U.S.
<h2>WHY</h2>
Each summit will provide an opportunity for sister Veterans to meet with representatives of VA and discuss issues related to their needs in the areas of employment, whole health, mental health, military sexual trauma, suicide prevention, entrepreneurial resources, and end of life planning, among other areas of focus.&nbsp; You will have an opportunity to meet face to face with VA Claims Representatives to submit new or increase disability claims related to service-connected conditions.
<h2>WHO</h2>
All women who serve and served are invited and welcome, no cost to register. Bring your Battle Buddy!
&nbsp;REGISTER HERE:&nbsp; <img alt="&#128279;" src="https://fonts.gstatic.com/s/e/notoemoji/17.0/1f517/32.png"><a href="https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwhova.com%2Fportal%2Fregistration%2FbIpBmx5GL4oTJcmYk45h%2F/1/0100019db20dde25-430b7cdf-ac01-47eb-97c9-cbd322fa1509-000000/1V1fbORgUmZd5grq8FwCTRgHU-ts-RsUxPRJGhv1CsI=451" target="_blank" rel="noopener nofollow">https://whova.com/portal/registration/bIpBmx5GL4oTJcmYk45h/</a>
<img src="https://ci3.googleusercontent.com/meips/ADKq_NZxEgYqxvnL8o-_hKMv32nnWGN2PEhGHN6yrTCJFks4RNOwwFQhjPq5SRYMES2jJJrgmKKOP28X02EqfVG5ebpueBDK81EmuHvXSI5LsiQCZigZOGKaqqrlwTBKs7UtD-kONgrYC8Ix3fp1MAYQu33nEeqRD2rVOEX-Uw=s0-d-e1-ft#https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/USVA/2026/04/13541872/summit-qr_original.png" alt="QR Code">

Women Veteran Enrollment Initiative, "Boots on...

A Message from Jacquelyn Hayes-Byrd, Executive Director, Center for Women Veterans...

Women Veteran Enrollment Initiative, "Boots on the Ground for Boots on the Ground"

Join the community for Ellington&rsquo;s Annual Earth Day Celebration on Saturday, April 25, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Held rain or shine at the Town Green and Nellie McKnight Museum, this family-friendly event is a tradition focused on sustainability and local action.
Event Highlights:
<ul><li>70+ Vendors: Explore eco-friendly products and local organizations.</li><li>Community Cleanup: Pick up roadside litter in your neighborhood and bring it to the designated dumpster at the museum. No registration is required&mdash;just grab your gloves and go!</li><li>Donation Drives: On-site collections for gently used clothing, household goods, and a bottle/can recycling drive.</li><li>Fun &amp; Education: Enjoy live entertainment, local food, and interactive exhibits on conservation.</li></ul>
Come out to support a greener Ellington and enjoy a day of community spirit!

Ellington's To Hold Annual Earth Day Celebration 

Join the community for Ellington’s Annual Earth Day Celebration on Saturday, April 25, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Held rain or shine at the...

The Ellington Farmers Market is facing a challenging financial crossroads following the loss of $9,500 in funding from End Hunger CT. These funds were instrumental in supporting the market&rsquo;s SNAP matching programs, which help neighbors in need stretch their food budgets to include fresh, local produced foods.
For a small, community-run nonprofit, a gap of this size is substantial. However, market organizers have made it clear: they are committed to self-funding these matching programs through the power of community support rather than seeing them disappear.
<h3>The Power of 60: A Race to $6,000</h3>
An urgent opportunity has emerged to help bridge this deficit. <a href="https://patronicity.com/efm" target="_blank" rel="noopener nofollow">Sustainable CT</a> has stepped in with a high-impact matching challenge, but it requires a collective effort from the community to unlock.<h3>Why Your Support Matters</h3>
"For a tiny nonprofit like us, this leaves a real gap," the market shared in a statement. The SNAP matching program is a lifeline for many families, ensuring that the farmers market remains an inclusive space where healthy, local food is a right, not a privilege. Beyond helping families, this funding plays a vital role in the local economy by ensuring that SNAP dollars go directly into the hands of our small-scale area farmers, helping their businesses thrive.By donating by May 9th residents can ensure that their contribution goes twice as far, helping the market recover from the grant loss and maintain its dedicated service to the town.
<h3>How to Help</h3>
To participate in the match and help the market reach its 60-donor goal, please visit the official fundraising page:
<ul><li>Donate at: <a href="https://patronicity.com/efm" target="_blank" rel="noopener nofollow">patronicity.com/efm</a></li><li>Donations can also be mailed to: Ellington Farmers Market, 105 Pinnacle Rd, Ellington CT. 06029</li><li>Questions? contact <a href="mailto:info@ellingtonfarmersmarket.org" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">info@ellingtonfarmersmarket.org</a></li></ul>

Local Food Access at Risk: Ellington Farmers...

The Ellington Farmers Market is facing a challenging financial crossroads following the loss of $9,500 in funding from End Hunger CT. These funds...

Local Food Access at Risk: Ellington Farmers Market Navigates Major Funding Gap

As the seasons roll across Ellington, CT, our roofs take on a little of everything: spring showers, humid summer heat, swirling leaves, and those blustery winter gusts. Between school drop-offs, errands on Route 83, and weekend games at local fields, it's easy to miss small roof issues until they grow. That's why a quick visual check after windy days can go a long way, especially before snow or a heavy downpour settles in. If you're curious where to start, a simple overview from a trusted local resource is helpful, and many neighbors skim tips from <a href="https://www.keithgauvinroofing.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener nofollow">Keith Gauvin Roofing</a> before planning seasonal upkeep. Hence, they feel prepared for whatever New England skies decide to send our way this week.


<h2>Every day your roof shares quietly</h2>


On a calm evening, step back from the driveway and look for dark patches, shingle edges that lift, or flashing that seems out of line along dormers and skylights. After a gusty front sweeps through the Connecticut River Valley, granules in gutters or damp attic smells can hint at bigger concerns. If you want a quick sense of who's nearby, many folks pull up directions to a <a href="https://www.google.com/maps?cid=2130805477863052678" target="_blank" rel="noopener nofollow">roofing contractor in Ellington</a> while walking the dog, then set a reminder to recheck the attic after the next rain, because finding a drip early beats tarps and buckets later by a long shot.


<h3>Small habits that help through seasons</h3>


Keep gutters clear, so meltwater and leaf tea don't back up under shingles, and trim branches that scrape during those brisk October winds. When schedules are tight, set a quarterly phone reminder to glance at the skylights and the chimney cap on a bright Saturday, and to sweep away any twigs on the lawn that may have fallen from higher up. If you do spot a missing tab or a damp ceiling ring, scan community posts or local pages; many neighbors share storm snapshots and <a href="https://www.facebook.com/KeithGauvinRoofing" target="_blank" rel="noopener nofollow">storm damage repair</a> tips to compare notes before calling, so they can plan a calm follow-up to avoid surprise weekend ladder scrambles when weather rolls in again.<figure><a href="https://www.keithgauvinroofing.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener nofollow"><img src="https://patch.com/img/cdn20/users/27259775/20260406/125538/d7451ce7-f60a-446b-8dee-054dbe047abe-picsart-aiimageenhancer___06125537901.jpg?width=600" id="d7451ce7-f60a-446b-8dee-054dbe047abe-Picsart-AiImageEnhancer.jpg" data-image="d7451ce7-f60a-446b-8dee-054dbe047abe-Picsart-AiImageEnhancer.jpg" srcset="https://patch.com/img/cdn20/users/27259775/20260406/125538/d7451ce7-f60a-446b-8dee-054dbe047abe-picsart-aiimageenhancer___06125537901.jpg?width=320 320w, https://patch.com/img/cdn20/users/27259775/20260406/125538/d7451ce7-f60a-446b-8dee-054dbe047abe-picsart-aiimageenhancer___06125537901.jpg?width=375 375w, https://patch.com/img/cdn20/users/27259775/20260406/125538/d7451ce7-f60a-446b-8dee-054dbe047abe-picsart-aiimageenhancer___06125537901.jpg?width=420 420w, https://patch.com/img/cdn20/users/27259775/20260406/125538/d7451ce7-f60a-446b-8dee-054dbe047abe-picsart-aiimageenhancer___06125537901.jpg?width=720 720w, https://patch.com/img/cdn20/users/27259775/20260406/125538/d7451ce7-f60a-446b-8dee-054dbe047abe-picsart-aiimageenhancer___06125537901.jpg?width=600 600w" sizes="(max-width: 325px) 320px, (max-width: 375px) 375px, (max-width: 420px) 420px, (max-width: 768px) 720px, 600px"></a></figure>


Planning bigger projects with confidence


When fixes stack up, it might be time to consider a focused roof replacement or to update gutters so runoff flows away from garden beds and walkways. Local shop owners in town centers also plan for busy seasons, considering <a href="https://www.keithgauvinroofing.com/commercial-roofing/" target="_blank" rel="noopener nofollow">commercial roofing</a> options that balance durability with curb appeal for customers. Either way, photos taken on your phone, notes about drafty spots, and a quick attic flashlight check give helpful context before you speak with a pro, and those simple steps make spring and fall planning smoother when calendars fill fast around school concerts and holiday events.


Ellington neighbors swap practical ideas the same way we trade casserole dishes after a big game: keep it simple, timely, and kind. If you're comparing materials or wondering how scope and timing affect budgets, it helps to read neutral guidance, such as <a href="https://www.forbes.com/home-improvement/roofing/roof-replacement-cost/" target="_blank" rel="noopener nofollow">everything you need to know about roofing prices</a>. At the same time, you list questions about skylights, gutter installation, or a future roof replacement. Pair that homework with a short walk-around after the next shower, and jot what you notice near vents, valleys, and the eaves. With steady habits and a few notes, you'll be ready for the first warm Saturday, when the lilacs open, the ballfields fill, and the roof over your day-to-day feels set for the season ahead.
Keith Gauvin Roofing Address: <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Keith+Gauvin+Roofing/@41.9217898,-72.4754003,519m/data=!3m1!1e3!4m6!3m5!1s0x89e6f0e250976aed:0x1d92244ae97bd586!8m2!3d41.9217898!4d-72.4754003!16s%2Fg%2F11gcmql9f1!5m1!1e2?entry=ttu&amp;g_ep=EgoyMDI2MDQwMS4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D" target="_blank" rel="noopener nofollow">131 Jobs Hill Rd, Ellington, Connecticut, 06029, USA</a> <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Keith+Gauvin+Roofing/@41.9217898,-72.4754003,519m/data=!3m1!1e3!4m6!3m5!1s0x89e6f0e250976aed:0x1d92244ae97bd586!8m2!3d41.9217898!4d-72.4754003!16s%2Fg%2F11gcmql9f1!5m1!1e2?entry=ttu&amp;g_ep=EgoyMDI2MDQwMS4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D" target="_blank" rel="noopener nofollow"></a>Phone: <a href="tel:860-324-4843" target="_blank" rel="noopener nofollow">860-324-4843</a> <a href="tel:860-324-4843" target="_blank" rel="noopener nofollow"></a>Website: <a href="https://www.keithgauvinroofing.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener nofollow">https://www.keithgauvinroofing.com/</a> <a href="https://www.keithgauvinroofing.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener nofollow"></a>Visit Other Profiles: <a href="https://www.provenexpert.com/keith-gauvin-roofing/" target="_blank" rel="noopener nofollow">Keith Gauvin Roofing | Proven Expert</a> <a href="https://www.monster.com/company/profiles/Keith-Gauvin-Roofing" target="_blank" rel="noopener nofollow">Keith Gauvin Roofing | Monster</a> <a href="https://www.manta.com/c/m1hvzdd/keith-gauvin-roofing" target="_blank" rel="noopener nofollow">Keith Gauvin Roofing | Manta</a>

Neighbors' Guide to Roof Care in Ellington, CT

As the seasons roll across Ellington, CT, our roofs take on a little of everything: spring showers, humid summer heat, swirling leaves, and those...

The Ellington Historical Society has a limited number of vendor spaces still available for its annual Vintage and Antique Market, taking place Saturday, May 2, from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Nellie McKnight Museum, 70 Main Street in Ellington.
This popular event coincides with opening day of the Ellington Farmers Market, bringing strong foot traffic and a vibrant crowd to the town center&mdash;making it a great opportunity for vendors to showcase their goods.

Set on the historic grounds of the Nellie McKnight Museum, the market offers a charming setting for both vendors and visitors. The 1812 house museum will be open for touring during the event which features the 2026 exhibit of Ellington's historic events through the years.&nbsp;
Vendor space is limited, and early applications are encouraged. Apply online at&nbsp;<a href="https://bit.ly/4rejpgM" target="_blank" rel="noopener nofollow">bit.ly/4rejpgM&nbsp; &nbsp;</a> &nbsp;Contact: <a href="mailto:info@ellingtonhistsoc.org" target="_blank" rel="noopener nofollow">info@ellingtonhistsoc.org</a>

Vintage and Antique Market At Nellie McKnight...

The Ellington Historical Society has a limited number of vendor spaces still available for its annual Vintage and Antique Market, taking place...

Vintage and Antique Market At Nellie McKnight Museum Accepting Vendors

Join us Saturday, May 2nd from 9am to noon at 72 Maple St, Ellington as local farmers share their newest arrivals &mdash; piglets, chicks, lambs, kids (the goat kind), calves, cria (that's baby alpaca, and yes, they're every bit as adorable as they sound), and possibly more fuzzy, wobbly, brand-new faces.
And keeping the energy high all morning? The incredibly talented &mdash; and aptly named &mdash; Free Range Humans, bringing their lively bluegrass sound to one of the most magical markets of the season.
Browse 50+ vendors for produce, plants, protein, prepared &amp; artisanal foods, handcrafted goods, and so much more.
We proudly accept and double SNAP benefits, and accept FMNP vouchers. And here's a friendly reminder: if you have Ellington Farmers Market SNAP, FMNP, or Kids POP vouchers tucked away in a drawer somewhere, bring them along &mdash; they never expire!
We can't wait to see you there!&nbsp;
Saturday, May 2nd | 9am&ndash;noon | 72 Maple St, Ellington, CT

Barnyard Babies - Opening Day at the Ellington...

Join us Saturday, May 2nd from 9am to noon at 72 Maple St, Ellington as local farmers share their newest arrivals — piglets, chicks, lambs, kids ...

Barnyard Babies - Opening Day at the Ellington Farmers Market

Looking for a job or thinking about a career change? Join us for Resume Rescue and learn helpful tips to strengthen your resume and stand out to employers.Your resume is often the first impression you make&mdash;let&rsquo;s make it a great one!Come learn practical strategies to highlight your skills, experience, and accomplishments so you can feel more confident in your job search.&nbsp;Hosted by Ellington Human Services.&nbsp;See flyer for details

Resume Rescue Workshop 

Looking for a job or thinking about a career change? Join us for Resume Rescue and learn helpful tips to strengthen your resume and stand out to...

Chris Dehnel

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Enfield’s Valley Rep Theater Company will present the hilarious comedy, “Love, Sex, and the I.R.S.” by Billy Van Zandt and Jane...

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April 25, 2026 8:00am to 2:00pmHoliday Decor and Gifts, Jewelry, Furniture, Clothing, Kitchen Items, Toys & Games, Books,...

Spring Fair and Tag Sale

Come enjoy a wonderful day of fellowship and fun at this parish fundraiser, featuring hidden treasures, crafter goods, and...

Parish Tag Sale & Flea Market

The St Joseph Church Men’s Club is holding a Goods & Services auction in the church hall on May 16, 2026, with a Goal to Raise...

St Joseph's Church Goods & Services Auction

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! Walk in or 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...

Ellington Honors Life Of Veteran Firefighter, EMT

Ellington emergency responders are mourning a man they said gave a lifetime of service to the town.

Obituaries

Ellington Sets Youth Safety Meeting After Green...

Officials said the discussion follows recent enforcement activity and concerns about fires, trespassing and injuries.

Ellington Sets Youth Safety Meeting After Green Road Incidents

Community Corner

Ellington Firefighters Called After Horse Falls...

Firefighters said the horse was able to free itself with assistance after falling into the mud below.

Ellington Firefighters Called After Horse Falls Through Bridge

Crime & Safety

Ellington Leaders Back Referendum, Weigh...

A part-time transition plan for the finance office was also discussed as the town looks at possible shared services.

Ellington Leaders Back Referendum, Weigh Finance Shakeup

Politics & Government

Ellington Leaders Describe Ongoing Green Road...

Town officials said the activity has damaged land, raised safety concerns and led to stepped-up enforcement.

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Discover more in Ellington-Somers

Find and sell treasures, hire and offer services. All in your community

Ellington-Somers, CT|Local Classified|Announcement|6h

Our Town, Our Story: An Ellington Timeline

Ellington-Somers, CT|Local Classified|Announcement|1d

Women Veteran Enrollment Initiative, "Boots on the Ground for Boots on the Ground"

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