PROUDLY SERVING THE 18TH DISTRICT
State Senator Heather Somers
Senior Deputy Republican Leader
Heather Somers, elected in 2016, represents Connecticut’s 18th district. She is a Chief Deputy Senate Republican Leader and serves as Ranking Member of the Public Health Committee and the Appropriations Committee. Heather has been recognized as a champion of important initiatives in health care, tourism, mental health, senior housing and elder care. She is also a former councilwoman and mayor in her native Groton.
"Together, we can bridge divides and build a brighter future for all Connecticut families."
Congratulations Kim! You are the best our state has to offer and this is such well-deserved recognition!✨International Year of the Woman Farmer Spotlight✨
Kim Grijalva of Grijalva Cattle Co. in North Stonington
With two decades of farming experience, Kim and her husband own Grijalva Cattle Co., a 100-acre regenerative farm that has roots dating back to 1743. Here, she and her husband are building an integrated operation focused on Texas Longhorn forage-fed beef, pasture-raised chicken for meat and eggs, maple syrup production, forage farming, and a robust herb and flower program.
🐂What inspired you to become a farmer?
I grew up on the northeastern shore of Long Island, working on local farms where the rhythm of the seasons shaped daily life. The connection between land, weather, and food was constant and tangible, and that awareness stayed with me long after I left. Those early experiences rooted something deep — an understanding that farming isn’t just production, it’s relationship.
In 2020, I felt called to return to the Northeast with renewed intention — to grow our herd, steward historic farmland, and fully re-enter the seasonal rhythms of farm life that had resonated with me since childhood. Becoming a farmer wasn’t a sudden decision; it was a return to something that had always been there.
🐂What advice would you give to other women?
Write your mission. Plot your course. Learn the business side just as deeply as the land itself. And trust your instincts — they are often more accurate than you realize.
There is space for you here. You’ve got this.
🐂Describe a challenge you face as a woman farmer:
I can’t say that I’ve faced challenges simply because I am a woman farmer. Farming is demanding for anyone who chooses it.
👉 Follow Kim at @grijalvacattleco to learn more!
#CTGrown #WomenInAg
It was a privilege to join Cub Scout Pack 41 in Groton to celebrate a big milestone as these outstanding scouts crossed over into Scouting BSA.
I had the honor of presenting official state citations in recognition of their hard work and dedication as they advanced to the next level of scouting.
Congratulations to these scouts on this achievement and best wishes as they continue their journey.
Mystic showed up today ☘️
The Irish Parade is one of those days that never gets old — packed streets, great music, and so many familiar faces along the route. It’s always special to be back out there year after year, celebrating alongside this incredible community.
I was so glad to be part of it and spend the day with everyone who came out, marched, and made it all happen. You could feel the energy from start to finish.