How do I work this?

My sympathies to those in Middletown who are still without power....

Electricity came back to our part of downtown at 7:15 pm tonight, ending our 43 hours of blackout. The traffic signals are (thankfully) working again, bringing some sanity back to Washington Street. (I heard the Mayor call Rt. 66 a "demolition derby" on NPR - we could see multiple accidents from our front door.)

But moments after the lights came back on and the cheering subsided in my own household, I heard each of my kids wishing the blackout wasn't over yet. Sure, it would be tough to live like that all the time, but we've had a lot of fun in the past two days.

We spent the daylight hours playing cards and planning our evenings, hoarding our remaining laptop power for a family movie. We checked in on neighbors and our businesses. On Monday, Mark and the girls woke up early and walked to the top of Foss Hill to watch the sunrise. At night, we hosted a group of a dozen Wesleyan students looking to take a break from the dark, cold campus.

Creative Storeowners
Just a few Main Street restaurants managed to open during the past few days. At Empire Pizza, they didn't need any advertisement, as people just took their cue from the streams of people leaving Main Street carrying pizza boxes. At Anoho Noodle Shop, they actually ran their power off their car batteries parked on Main Street.

Survival Skills
Taking a tip from our neighbor, Ed McKeon, we dug out the old rotary phone and plugged it in. It was really cool helping my kids figure out this foreign technology - it's usually the other way around. Here's a photo of a teenager calling all her friends after she figured out how to work it.

And we were really proud of ourselves when we figured out (after about 20 hours of blackout) that we could keep the fridge cold by packing snow around our milk and tofu.

Pilgrim Re-enactment
Maybe it's because our house was built in 1751, but we got a big kick out of cooking dinner by candlelight. Usually, there are dozens of restaurants open within a few blocks of our house - which leads to "takeout together" dinners. But for the past two days we've been cooking, and eating, together. My 14-year-old said, "did you notice how everyone is helping without being asked?" Yes, I did - it's been so nice!

Favorite quotes:

Maggie: "Now I get Baroque like I never got Baroque" as the last rays of sunlight came through the kitchen window.

Jen: "I can't figure out why they didn't invent modern architecture until after they had electricity?!" on noticing that our house got darker about an hour before the sky - wonder what it would have been like with big windows!

Karma: "I've got two twitter threads going: "Getting out of bed to light the candle - #eighteethcenturygirlproblems" and "Putting Uggs on in the dark - #twentyfirstcenturygirlproblems"

Kobi: "I think I hear the rodeo phone ringing". Maybe it was the long spiral cord that made him think cowboy?

Thornton Wilder: "Have you milked the mammoth?" Ok, so Thornton Wilder wasn't here, but we did quote from "Skin of Our Teeth".

When the lights came back on, we were gathered around the candlelit dining room table, finishing off a bottle of Martinelli's Sparkling Apple Cider, cooled by snow. Now we've got every light in the house on, with multiple laptops and the radio going - hardly feels like progress!

Wadsworth Halloween Bash Cancelled

The Wadsworth Mansion has cancelled it Haunted Halloween Bash.  The Bash had been rescheduled for this evening, but extensive power outages and damage across Connecticut has made it impossible to host the party.  All ticket purchasers will be refunded. 

 

For additional information please call Deborah Moore 860 301 5080.

Deborah Moore

Executive Director

860 347 1064

deborahmoore@wadsworthmansion.com

http://www.wadsworthmansion.com

Mayor Suggests Trick Or Treaters Stay Home Along With Other Precautions

From the office of the Mayor and the Middletown Fire Department (slightly re-edited with no deletions)

The Mayor is urging residents to forgo Halloween festivities for this evening.  With the extensive power outage safety will be an issue if children are out on the darkened streets.  Even reflective clothing may not be adequate to protect pedestrians on well traveled streets.  The police department urges people to have a well lit house if they are offering candy to trick-or-treaters.  Due to the power outage, that will not be possible and the darkened houses, walkways and pedestrian paths may become dangerous.  

 Police and fire officials are reminding residents to take some precautions in the aftermath of Winter Storm Alfred if they have been or continue to be without power.

Fire officials said, that if possible, use flashlights during a power outage. If candles must be used, the fire department offered the following warnings:

• Avoid carrying a lit candle and never leave candles unattended. Extinguish all candles when leaving the room or going to bed.
• Keep candles away from items that can catch fire such as clothing or curtains.
• Keep candles and all open flames away from flammable liquids.
• Use candle holders that are sturdy, won’t tip over easily and are made from a material that can’t burn.

Fire officials also warned about the dangers of carbon monoxide during an extended power outage. According to the department, all gas-powered equipment such as generators emit carbon monoxide (CO). Generators must be operated outside in a well –ventilated area, never inside. Caution should be used when operating alternate heating devices such as kerosene and propane heaters.  Any open flame is an extreme fire risk and these heating devices will also produce deadly CO.

Carbon monoxide can affect a home very quickly without being detected by the body’s senses.

Symptoms of CO poisoning can mimic the common flu and may include headache, dizziness, weakness, nausea vomiting chest pain and confusion.

If carbon monoxide poisoning is suspected, call 911 immediately.

For more information on fire safety call (860) 883-7564. For more information on Halloween safety contact the Middletown Police Department at 860-344-3200. 

Sonia Manjon Shares Her Story with ConnCAN

This essay is printed in the latest issue of the ConnCAN web newsletter.  ConnCAN is an education advocacy organization whose stated goal reads: We will not rest until every Connecticut child, regardless of race or class, has access to a great public school.

Like all parents, I want nothing but the best for my boys, and nothing stands out more to me than access to a great education. I am fortunate and blessed to know that right now, my sons attend excellent public schools – but I also know that many parents in Connecticut can’t say the same. For too many students, especially in large urban cities and low-income neighborhoods, the promise of public education is still a distant dream.

It doesn’t have to be this way. My youngest son attends Macdonough Elementary School in Middletown and has made incredible strides, thanks to a wonderful new teacher, Buster Nelson, who thinks outside the box, uses new techniques and pedagogy, and encourages students and parents to be equal participants in the learning process. Macdonough’s principal, Jon Romeo, has created a community of excellence and an environment of innovation, where teachers, parents, and community partners do whatever it takes for all students to succeed.

Read the rest of the essay, here.

Electrical Service Advisory

From the Middletown Fire Department

Mayor Giuliano and City Officials have been working closely with Connecticut Light and Power (CL&P) representatives to assess the massive power outages that have darkened the city due to the historic winter storm.  Residents are asked to be patient while CL&P works to restore power.  The storm has damaged the distribution grid and residents may be without power for up to a week or more. 

Residents are also reminded that CL&P is responsible for the repair of wires from the utility pole to the connection at the household service, usually refereed to as the weather head. Property owners are responsibly for the maintenance and repair of their own electrical service. If there is damage to any of the electrical service on the outside of the house, the property owner will be required to contract with a licensed electrician for any repairs of the service leading to the CL&P connection point. If there is any doubt or concern on the soundness of the electrical service, residents are encouraged to consult with a licensed electrician.  Safety must be a priority; remember that wires may be energized.

The City would also like to remind residents that the City’s shelter is open at Middletown High School, 200 LaRosa Lane.  The shelter is available for warming needs, charging of electrical devices, hot showers, food and water.  Based on the capacity of the shelter, cots may not be available. The Council Chamber at City Hall, 245 deKoven Drive, will also be available as a warming and charging station as well.

(more)

2-2-2 Electrical Restoration

For more information you can contact the Emergency Operations Center (EOC) information line at (860)347-0144.

 

Shelter Volunteers Needed at Middletown H.S.

The Middletown Health Department needs volunteers at the shelter, located at Middletown High School (off Newfield Street).  Medical volunteers (e.g. nurses, medical technicians, EMTs, paramedics) are especially needed for those in need of ongoing medical care). With all the power outages, this notice will have a hard time reaching people, so please help spread the word.  Those who wish to volunteer should just show up at the shelter and ask for "Dante" or the Emergency Management personnel on site.

Mother & Daughter Candidates: Linda Salafia & Molly Salafia

Candidate profiles: as a courtesy The Middletown Eye will publish candidate profiles unedited in the order received.

Linda Salafia (R) for Common Council:

There are few people running for Common Council that understand finances and government like Linda Salafia. Salafia said, “ I believe that my experience working for the City will allow me to bring an understanding of how the various departments function to the table. I would like to believe that I’m prudent, realistic, and practical.”

Born in Maine, Linda came to Connecticut with her parents because of the better economic climate here at the time; her dad taught school in Portland for many years and her mom worked at Wesleyan. Linda graduated from Portland High School and then earned a Bachelor of Science in Education from the University of Vermont. During college vacations and summer, she worked for Mallove Jewelers on Main Street, where she met her husband of 31 years. The Salafia family will be busy this fall as daughter, Molly, is running for the Middletown Planning and Zoning Commission.

Linda worked as a psychiatric aide at the Institute of Living in Hartford for several years. After earning a Certificate of Accounting from Morse School of Business, Linda then took a book keeping job with Joe Cartelli, Ed Bogdan, and Bob Curtain at the former Insurance and Real Estate Center.

In 1987, Linda started work with the City of Middletown in the Tax Collector’s office, then several positions in the Finance Department before moving to the position of Payroll/Pension Supervisor 13 years ago. Linda retires this Spring.

Linda has been very active in her union and has been elected to serve in various leadership capacities for the American Federation of State, Municipal Employees (AFSCME) Local 466 whom are also endorsing Linda. She is currently Vice President of the Local. Salafia has been part of bargaining negotiations over the years and understands the need for balance and respect on both sides of the table.

Linda is a member of Polish Falcons, Nest 519 and the Family Campers and Rvers’- a group that promotes conservation, family recreation, and volunteerism.

https://www.facebook.com/groups/votesalafiawomen/

Questions to Mrs. Salafia can be directed to: linda.salafia@yahoo.com

http://middletownctgop.com/

Linda has written several letters to the various media outlets speaking out against injustices in City politics and government this past fall. Please click below to read

http://www.middletownpress.com/articles/2011/09/26/opinion/doc4e7d0520625ce409788066.txt

http://www.middletownpress.com/articles/2011/07/28/opinion/doc4e30873a383d5810813878.txt

Planning and Zoning Candidate: Molly Salafia, Associate AIA, LEED GA (R) & Realistic Balance

Molly Salafia brings a strong professional background to the Planning and Zoning Commission. Salafia is an architectural designer and job captain at an architectural firm in New Haven. She believes everyone deserves a safe place to live and it should be a right, not a privilege.

“My goal is to open people’s minds and to challenge preconceived ideas so that Middletown can grow.”, said Salafia, who has a Master’s Degree in Architecture, and minors in Visual Arts & Art & Architectural History from Roger Williams University.

“I hope my training and experience will be helpful to smart growth and prosperity for Middletown.”

Salafia wants to preserve open space in Middletown, work on a plan to develop the riverfront that engages residents in a dedicated public space, and bring the right kind of development to the riverfront area. Salafia wants to preserve the nostalgia and vitality of Main Street, but also help spread that vitality to other parts of town. Molly believes that the only way to keep Middletown economically sound for all residents is to let new companies know “Middletown is open for business.”

Molly also serves of the Design Review and Historic Preservation Board for Middletown.

She has served as Chapter President of the American Institute of Architecture Students and is recipient of the Alpha Rho Chi Medal, given to 1 student in every graduating architecture class. Salafia is certified in Leadership in Energy and Environment Design (LEED) Green Associate. Molly is also an active member of Middletown Kiwanis Club, a club dedicated to community service. This fall Molly is taking on politics following in her relatives’, former Councilman Jesse Salafia & the late Phil Salafia’s foot steps.

Along the campaign trail, Molly & Linda have organized MRTC’s collection of items for Catales, Amazing Grace, and the group’s participation in CROP Walk. Molly grew up at her parents’ home in South Middletown and now enjoys living in the Village District in her own fixer-upper. Molly is thrilled to be cross endorsed by the Realistic Balance Party.

Questions to Molly can be directed to: molly.salafia@gmail.com

Salafia has published several pieces in local media outlets as well including the Press & Eye further detailing her goals & beliefs about the "Third Industrial Revolution" if elected:

http://middletowneyenews.blogspot.com/2011/09/part-ii-candidate-molly-salafia-follow.html

http://middletowneyenews.blogspot.com/2011/08/last-from-pencil.html

Shelter Open, Roads Clear, 94% of Middletown Without Power

The mayor's office is reminding residents that Middletown High School is open as a storm shelter. As of Sunday night 94% of the city is still without power, including Main Street.

Candidate Profile: Debra Kleckowski Common Council (R)

The below information is a part of the Eye's Elections 2011 series to provide information to voting citizens and does not represent any endorsement by the Middletown Eye or any of its authors.

I am seeking my second term on the Common Council to continue to grow Middletown and to put the focus on solving problems as a community rather than based upon partisan politics, I am focused on what needs to be done and how to get it done efficiently and effectively.

During my first term on the Common Council I pushed for an audit of the Board of Education finances, worked to improve employee relations, helped to create an Emergency Operations Center, and facilitated the construction of an emergency access road at Middletown High School.

I am a native of Middletown and a graduate of Woodrow Wilson High School. My parents are Beverly Talbot (Dionne) and Daniel Kleckowski. I have two younger siblings Gailyn and Brenda. I am a proud mother of twin boys. I am currently an Adjunct Instructor at Middlesex Community College. I am seeking a second term as a member of the Common Council and it will be an honor to serve on the Council and represent the citizens of Middletown for a second term.

My professional career has been dedicated to advocacy and to the betterment of communities. I have also been a member of service organizations. I am committed to the taxpayers of the City of Middletown to pursue ideas and to implement policies that are beneficial to the community today and tomorrow. Long-term planning is the key to sustainable economic success and to ensure an exceptional quality of life in Middletown and for its residents.

I serve on the following Council committees:

Citizen’s Advisory Committee

Public Safety

Personnel Review

Insurance and Claims

Issues: It is a priority to ensure the safety of the residents of Middletown, especially our children. I initiated an emergency access road, which is currently under construction, at Middletown High School. I work to ensure a fair labor environment and the heath safety, and general well-being of the community.

Taxes and the economy are in the forefront of issues of urgency. It is essential that the City develop long range plans to address attrition and how to continue to incorporate technology into the application of services. Incorporating technology will improve services; provide residents the opportunity to conduct business outside the traditional business hours and save the taxpayers money. I also want to continue to grow the business community and to ensure Middletown is a business friendly community.

Previous Experience: I served on the Planning and Zoning Commission. I made the recommendation to hold a planning meeting and a zoning meeting to provide better service to the public and to more efficiently address both planning and zoning issues.

I have worked on mayoral, gubernatorial, state representative and Secretary of the State campaigns. I was appointed to serve on commissions including the New Britain Youth Services Commission and the New Britain Health Commission and served as Chairman.

Education: Eastern Connecticut State University-Bachelor of Sociology and Applied Social Relations. Central Connecticut State University-Advanced Certificate in Business Management. Wesleyan University-Master of Arts in Liberal Science.

Please contact me if you have any questions or if I can be of assistance.

Kleckoski's statement's were featured in this previous Eye article : Councilwoman Seeks Termination of BOE Business Manager Nancy Haynes featured one year ago this November.

http://middletownctgop.com/

Wesleyan Argus & Wesleying.org Election Articles of Note

Off the more traveled path of web reading this week besides the Press, the Patch, & the Eye, the Wesleyan Argus & Wesleying.org blog have had articles pertaining to similar election issues regarding registration of students to vote locally. With the issues this surrounding the registration of students and use of a p.o box vs. a physical address that took place earlier this week, several news sources have published articles of note about the issue. Ben Forshiem, president of the Wesleyan Democrats wrote a response to the letter by Eye writer & candidate Molly Salafia. Forshiem's response is published in the Wesleyan Argus & on the Middletown Patch that can be found here. Forshiem also elaborated in more detail in addition to his letter about his thoughts and stated he agreed with another commenter in a response to the issue on the Wesleying.org blog here.

BOE candidate and Eye write Ed McKeon wrote a response on the Wesleying.org blog, an independent student run blog a commentary on the issue worth reading. It can be found here:

http://wesleying.org/2011/10/27/community-voice-ed-mckeon-voting-with-the-townies/.

Eye writer and Wesleyan Biology Professor Stephen Devoto (Fishmuscle) wrote an article discussing student voters, and also asking them to take a closer look at 3 municipal candidates- all of which are locally running as Republicans ( Sebastian Giuliano, Debra Kleckowski, and Molly Salafia) he praised and asked readers to take a look at because "I think deserve strong consideration from left-leaning voters."

His article can be found here: http://wesleyanargus.com/2011/10/27/to-the-nearly-500-students-who-registered-to-vote-in-middletown/.

Salafia, McKeon, Devote, & Forshiem all discuss the same issue of voting locally from different perspectives. Forshiem, who is a student, wants students to vote locally. Interestingly,Salafia, McKeon, & Devoto, the Eye notes, all are in consensus regarding Wesleyan students voting in their current city of Middletown. All three approach this in a similar way; they support college student's of Middletown voting in the municipal elections so long as they educate themselves with the relevant local issues. While each response to the issue is unique pointing out various ramifications; all three advocate researching all candidates to better understand not only the needs of their university that the candidates propose to meet, but also how the candidate will meet the needs of the other citizens of Middletown.

Candidate Profile: Joyce Rossitter (D) Planning & Zoning

The below information is a part of the Eye's Elections 2011 series to provide information to voting citizens and does not represent any endorsement by the Middletown Eye or any of its authors.

Joyce Rossitter

Democratic Candidate for the Middletown Planning and Zoning Commission

Participating in the planning of a future Middletown as a member of the Planning and Zoning Commission is a responsibility that as a long time resident I feel qualified to do.

As a former newspaper correspondent, I reported on numerous meetings of planning and zoning commissions learning the concepts and vocabulary as well as the difficulties involved.

My involvement in Middletown includes teaching English as a Second Language for many years in the Middletown Adult Education program; being active in Wesleyan Hills, a planned community of 575 homes (currently president of its association); participating in a study conducted by the Greater Middletown League of Women Voters on mass transit which resulted in my being named to the first Middletown Transit District; and a League study of nuclear waste which led to my serving on the Connecticut Yankee Community Decommissioning Advisory Committee.

Flu Clinic: News Release Middletown Health Department

Contact: Louis Carta

(860) 344-3482 (Office)

(860) 398-1824 (Cell)

FREE FLU CLINIC SLATED

Regional Sites Offer Seasonal Influenza Shots at No Charge

Cromwell — The third in a series of free flu clinics will be held November 2, from noon - 8:00

p.m. at the Coles Road Firehouse, 105 Coles Road. The vaccine will be given by injection only

(flu mist is not being offered). Anyone 3 years of age or older and in good health is eligible to

receive the vaccine. Insurance is not needed and residency not required. There is a limited supply

of vaccine which will be given out on a first-come, first- served basis. Appointments are not

needed. Other free flu clinics are scheduled as follows:

November 15: Activity Center (second floor), 350 Main St., Durham Noon - 8:00 p.m.

November 30: Westfield Fire Firehouse, 653 East St., Middletown. Noon - 8:00 p.m.

December 14: South Fire District Firehouse, 445 Randolph Rd., Middletown Noon - 8:00 p.m.

The clinics are sponsored by Mass Dispensing Area (MDA) 36: the towns of Cromwell,

Durham, Middlefield, and the City of Middletown.

Participants can save time by registering on-line at: www.cromwellct.com or

www.townofdurhamct.org.

For more information call: (860) 632-3426 (Cromwell), (860) 349-8253 (Durham),

(860) 349-7123 (Middlefield), or (860) 344-3482 (Middletown).

Press Release: Winter Storm Alfred

Contact: Albert Santostefano For Immediate Release:
Cell: (860) 883 0164

October 30, 2011
Phone: (860) 344- 8012

Middletown's Department of Health

MIDDLETOWN UPDATE ON WINTER STORM ALFRED
Middletown – Mayor Sebastian Giuliano would like to remind Middletown
residents that the emergency shelter at Middletown High, 200 LaRosa Lane is open. Showers, food and charging of devices are available. Pets will be allowed and should be in carriers. Pet owners must provide food and any necessary medications for their pets. Approximately 94% of Middletown residents are without power. CL&P, along with City public work crews and Tree Removal crews are in the process of tree removal from wires. With the restoration of power to begin when that is accomplished. As of Sunday night all roads in the city are passable. The Governor and CL&P issued a statement that this process may take up to a week to restore power. You are also advised to be careful around any downed trees or branches, as wires could possibly be intertwined and not visible. Anyone with questions should call (860) 347 0144

The Show Can't Go On

Today's performance of the Traveling Circus presents Adscensio! is cancelled due to the storm and lack of power.

Stay tuned for rescheduled dates, as Oddfellows will look to remount the show this winter. (Contrary to what it looks like outside - it is not winter, it is still fall.)

Blackout

As anyone with a radio knows, there's a massive power outage in the Northeast. Though roads are clear in downtown Middletown, there are numerous tree branches down - the Wesleyan campus is hard-hit. Stay off the roads and curl up on the couch with a good book!

Candidate Profile: David Bauer (R), Common Council

Our country is facing great financial challenges. Price inflation has not been matched by an increase in wages for most of us. Our Federal and State government has been spending money at an unsustainable level. Many families are already confronted with the financial hardships that the city of Middletown will have to grapple with very soon.

When I was trying to figure out what you should know about me, I asked myself what information is important to me as a voter. To make an informed vote on November 8th, you should know who the candidates are, what the incumbents' records are, and what they promise to do if they are elected.

First, if you don't believe their promises, don't give them your vote.

I have now served on the Common Council for six years. My record is public knowledge. I don't take the easy way out by voting “yes” for every raise, and for the giveaways to the powerful local insiders. I have never supported unwarranted, wasteful spending, nor have I backed away from wise investment of your money. There are some votes I regret making in my six years, some from a lack of the proper information, and one or two that were just mistakes. Those mistakes have made me more careful and motivated to be better prepared. I have learned to take special care in how I vote for confirmation of City Directors and other key City Personnel. Most of the accomplishments of the Council are team efforts, so I keep my ego in check, and do not take credit for the work of others.

We cannot know where we are going if we do not know where we have been. Sadly, the overall characteristic of this campaign so far has been an unending scrap over past events. I don't wish to fuel that dialogue. But I will try to explain the disconnect between the average citizen of Middletown and the Common Council. For decades, an overwhelming number of Council members have been current or retired government employees. A veto-proof majority sit on the present Common Council. They like the way our Municipal Government operates and work to keep it that way.

I want to change the way the Common Council operates and set goals that improve the stewardship of Middletown by all of its elected officials. Here are the details of what I will work for:

• Set financial projections for the Public and the Municipal workforce. The Council never looks past the next fiscal year. Directors and Departments are not challenged, priorities are not set, and the Public has no way of measuring the performance of its Elected Officials. We need budget projections that look at least five years into the future, available for everyone to see.
•Institute basic management practices. There are no performance goals set for Directors and Departments. No municipal employee even receives an annual review, employee accomplishments are not recognized, and deficiencies are not corrected. Compensation of the City workforce only ratchets upwards, there are no salary evaluations to similar duties in other sectors of the economy.
•Institute “best practice” work policies. Too many city operations are still being done the way they were done decades ago, seemingly by the “seat of the pants.” Technology is implemented backwards. Instead of the job evolving to embrace new tools, new technology is reworked to fit outmoded procedures. Municipal Departments are not ready for regionalization or consolidation of services.
•Transition from borrowing for regular upkeep of the City's assets to a “pay as you go” budget. Our roads, water & sewer mains, buildings, and parks need regular attention. We currently borrow for these needs or neglect them altogether. As we pay off the bonds for MHS, we should stop borrowing to do the upkeep necessary year after year. We have to pay anyway, so why do we add interest onto the cost for the taxpayer? Preserving the City's assets is critical to the financial health and future of Middletown.
•Re-institute agriculture into the local economy. We all get hungry, don't we? Why should the money we spend on foodstuffs leave Middletown? As energy costs rise, so will food prices. Local agriculture will create local jobs, and encourage better nutrition, with better-tasting food. These jobs cannot be exported as so many of the manufacturing jobs once in Middletown have been.
•Neighborhood improvement programs – Middletown has many unique neighborhoods. We need to embrace what makes the different areas of Middletown desirable, and preserve those traits and property values. We can no longer get by with “cookie cutter” solutions, or benign neglect.

Middletown faces many uncertainties. If you place your trust in me with your vote, I will work to make our City a family-friendly place - good for seniors, good for our youth, with jobs for everyone who wants one.

Candidate Profile: Frederick Terrasi for Planning & Zoning (R)

The below information is a part of the Eye's Elections 2011 series to provide information to voting citizens and does not represent any endorsement by the Middletown Eye or any of its authors.

Fred Terrasi brings solid experience to the Planning and Zoning Commission. He has spent many years giving back to the City of Middletown in official capacities and as a volunteer.

“I will work to bring the right kind of development to Middletown, said Terrasi, “Working together in a proactive fashion will lead to the best results for Middletown in the future.”

Terrasi is serving his fifth year as a member of the Inland Wetlands Commission, a key panel towards understanding rules and the demands development places on a community.

He had held numerous positions helping the community- former President of the Italian American Civic Order, President of the Holy Name Society and a President and Commissioner of the Middletown Youth League.

Terrasi has also served as co-chair of an annual fundraiser which benefits “Amazing Grace Food Pantry.”

Terrasi earned his Associate’s Degree in Business from Middlesex Community College and a Bachelor of Science from Central Connecticut State University. Terrasi, now in semi-retirement is a consultant to Pratt & Whitney. He is also a member of the Middletown Elks. Terrasi and his wife of 40 years have one son.

http://middletownctgop.com/

SNOW BAN IN EFFECT

I'm a little late to post this, but starting at 6:00 pm, the City of Middletown started a snow ban.


Please remember the following:

If your car is preventing the snow plows from properly cleaning the street, it will be ticketed and towed.

Also, as a reminder, city ordinance requires you to shovel any sidewalk in front of your property no later than 24 hours after a snowfall. Please be considerate of your neighbors and shovel and/or salt your sidewalk.

If you need off-street parking, you may park at the following municipal parking lots:

Corner of Washington/Broad St.(behind Kid City), Broad Street (across from Russell Library), Melilli Plaza (behind Main Street Market) and the lot on the north and south sides of Green Street (near the Green Street Arts Center and behind the Luis Lopez Herb Garden).

The City policy states that: "Parked vehicles of City streets must be removed by 12:00 pm. or run the risk of being towed by the Middletown Police at the owner's expense. If a vehicle is towed during the parking ban, you may claim the vehicle by contacting the Middletown Police Department at 860-347-6941. All payments, i.e., the ticket and towing charge, must be paid at the Police Department before a vehicle is released."

Thank you and enjoy (!?) the snow!

Mayor Orders MHS Opened for Shelter

From the Middletown Department of Health

Mayor Sebastian Giuliano has just announced that the city will be opening an emergency shelter at 7:30 PM this evening at Middletown High School, 200 LaRosa Lane because of power outages caused by the winter storm. Middletown residents and their families can utilize the shelter at least through tomorrow. Pets will be allowed and should be in carriers. Pet owners must provide food and any necessary medication for their pets.

Limited food in the form of meals ready to eat (MRE) and water will be available. 

The Middletown Police Department will be providing security.

Anyone with questions should call (860)347-0144.

ADSCENSIO circus performance rescheduled to Sunday at 2pm

The Oddfellows Playhouse Traveling Circus Company performance of Adscensio, originally scheduled for 7:30 pm Saturday night, has been rescheduled for 2 pm on Sunday afternoon, October 30.
This unique Circus/Theater performance, directed by ARTFARM Executive Director Dic Wheeler, received a warm and enthusiastic standing ovation from Friday night's audience. Don't miss this final opportunity to see this Circus dance through time by nine amazingly talented teenagers!
The performance will take place at Oddfellows Playhouse, 128 Washington Street, Middletown. Tickets are $15 for adults and $8 for students and seniors.

MFT Endorsed Candidates On Lawn Signs

The Middletown Federation of Teachers has begun distributing lawn signs with their endorsed choice of Board of Education candidates.

Candidate Profile: P & Z Candidate Ken McClellan (R)

The below information is a part of the Eye's Elections 2011 series to provide information to voting citizens and does not represent any endorsement by the Middletown Eye or any of its authors.

Ken McClellan is currently serving as an Alternate on the Planning and Zoning Commission and wants to become a full-time member of this important panel. His goal: update the Long Range Plan for Development of the City of Middletown.

McClellan believes in service to his community and nation. He came to Middletown after his first tour with the U.S. Army where he served as an Infantry Captain in Germany and stateside. After attending Temple University, he enlisted in the National Guard while working in the area of computers systems and software support for Fortune 500 companies. He earned a Master’s Degree in Computer Information Technology at Central Connecticut State University.

Upon graduation, McClellan entered active duty, again, and has served as an Infantry Platoon Leader, Executive Officer, Personnel Officer, Operations 0fficer and Automation Management Officer. On leaving active duty, he briefly ran his own business in computer consulting, and joined Johnson & Higgins, a commercial insurance broker, as a software support specialist. McClellan worked for Computer Systems Corporation, as a Computer System Administrator at Pratt & Whitney in Middletown and is currently employed as a Project Manager at Aetna.

McClellan retired from the United States Army Reserve as Lt. Colonel, after serving as an advisor to the Iraqi Army, as part of the Multi-National Transitional Command.

He has served as member of the Middletown High School Building Committee, and the Inland Wetland Commission. His other activities include Vice-Commander of American Legion, Post 75, Middletown, past Committee Member and Merit Badge Counselor with Boy Scout Troop 10, and past Cubmaster of Cub Scout Pack 43 and Vice-Chairman of the Middletown Republican Town Committee. McClellan served also as Counselor with the Boy Scout Troop 10, and past Cub Master of Cub Scout Pack 43.

Ken lives in the Westfield section of town, with his wife Cheryl and son, Michael. His daughter 1st Lieutenant Meagan McClellan is serving as a Maintenance Officer, with the U.S. Army in Iraq.

McClellan’s issues: Planning and Zoning - update the Long Range Plan for development of the city of Middletown. Update the Planning and Zoning code to eliminate inconsistencies, make it clearer, and easier to understand.

Business: - I will work to encourage businesses to come to Middletown, to provide meaningful employment, to increase the tax base of the city, and to help lower property taxes.

http://middletownctgop.com/

Candidate Profile: BOE Candidate Callie Grippo (R)

The below information is a part of the Eye's Elections 2011 series to provide information to voting citizens and does not represent any endorsement by the Middletown Eye or any of its authors.

My name is Callie Grippo, I am running as a Republican candidate for The Middletown Board of Education. I live in Middletown with my family and have an incredible love and devotion to this community and it's people, especially it's children and I want to see that our city's schoolchildren are again made the focus of our school system.

I think it's important to remember that our kids are our future -- our future business owners, teachers, city workers and parents of Middletown. Without the proper resources, which requires setting the right priorities at the Board of Ed level, how can we really expect the classrooms to our teachers, and ultimately our students, to be successful?

Any successful strategy to educate our kids and prepare them for a successful career begins and ends with our teachers. Our kids intuitively know that and expect our school system to treat them as full partners in shaping policy and appropriating limited resources. To be frank, I believe that our Board of Ed needs to be more viable, direct lines of communication with the professionals who work day in and day out with the students.

Simply put, I am committed to doing my part to help ensure that new, reenergized thinking with an improved sense of priorities is brought to bear at our Board of Education. Part and parcel to that effort is new leadership, and I pledge to you that I will help ensure that we also make changes in that area.

As a kid, I was blessed with parents that taught me strong values such as treat people the way you want to be treated; root for the underdog; help your neighbor; treat people with respect; respect authority; and there is no "I" in Team. If you share those values with me, I ask for your vote on November 8. Thank you!

My Background:

I am an accomplished and highly experienced professional with demonstrated ability to achieve objectives and produce results. I have a track record of success in insurance/risk management fields as well as extensive background in litigation, marketing and public relations.

I have key experience working successfully for more than 17 years with several recognized insurance industry leaders. I worked in a high-level capacity brokering settlements, protecting assets, and conducting long-range risk planning. I effectively managed the most complex, high-exposure asbestos and silica premises operations and products claims, including multi-plaintiff/class action suits and assured optimal resolution of high-profile cases involving numerous defendants and plaintiffs and with exposure ranging into the multi-millions of dollars. These settlements preserved assets, mitigated expenses, forecast/prescribed reserves, contributed to departmental savings, preserving capital through settlements below reserve funds.

I was selected from pool of over 100 candidates to serve on a Corporate Business Resolution Team. During that time, I helped initiate and incorporate visible and effective diversity and inclusion training.

I am an accomplished speaker;

Speaker, The Columbus Bar Association (“Pre-Suit Mediation”)

Speaker, Professional Education Systems, Inc. (“Evaluating/Settling Insurance Claims —The Insurance Companies’ Perspective”)

I have won numerous awards for my original speech writings and deliveries.

I sat on The Hartford Toastmasters Club Board of Directors for 3 years (CTM designation)

I was selected to mentor/teach Hartford Magnet students on speech writing and delivery and office and professional decorum.

While at home raising my child before school age, I established a highly successful production company that enabled me to develop and tap key production and marketing skills During that time, I designed, developed and managed 12-full scale productions and was selected as Connecticut's Most Prestigious Productions 2 years in a row.

I enjoy boating with my family, golfing, and spending time with my friends.I am also an active Volunteer in my children's schools and multiple charities throughout Connecticut.

http://middletownctgop.com/