Town to receive $4M for post office; $3.25M for Inn - East Hartford Gazette
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VOLUME 138, NO. 1 Thursday, January 5, 2023
Crafted from the finest local ingredients since 1885 1406 Main Street, East Hartford, Connecticut 06108 860-289-6468 editor@ehgazette.com website: ehgazette.com
Town to receive $4M for post office; $3.25M for Inn
Combination of state and federal funding targeted at Downtown projects
East Hartford Congressman Hartford-based CCAT - the CT Corners Inn on Main Street. trict that will support victims of this winter. I joined with the
John B. Larson managed to Center for Advanced Technol- “This year’s government gun violence, move our infra- Connecticut delegation to urge
bring home the bacon for the ogy. funding package will make a dif- structure projects forward, and for the inclusion of additional
First congressional District in- Another $2.2 million will be ference in our community lo- provide our community mem- funding for this crucial program
cluded in the $1.7 trillion Con- given to Goodwin University for cally and across the country, bers with resources like work- to ensure families who qualify
solidated Appropriations Act. its mobile manufacturing lab and I commend Chair Rosa De- force training and financial for assistance can get the sup-
Larson's vote promises $38.7 and nursing program, and Lauro on her leadership to get literacy programming. port they need to heat their
million to organizations in the $750,000 will be added to the this package across the finish “The severe weather we are homes.
Mayberry Village U. S. Repre- state's appropriation to pur- line,” said Larson. “I am proud facing is a reminder of the im- “Alongside this funding,
sentatives cities and towns, in- chase and rehab the old, single- to have secured over $38.7 mil- portance of home heating assis-
cluding over $16 million to East room-occupancy Church lion for Connecticut’s First Dis- tance for Connecticut families See MILLIONS SECURED, page 10
QUILT OF VALOR FOR A VETERAN MLK Day discussion focus
on social health inequity
Residents are invited to as well as a film on Dr. King’s
mark Dr. Martin Luther King, summer work in the tobacco
Jr.’s birthday by attending a fields of Simsbury when he was
forum which will examine an a student at Morehouse College.
issue dear to his heart: Health Several local organizations that
disparities and their causes. provide healthcare support will
Glastonbury’s MLK Commu- disseminate resource materials
nity Initiative is sponsoring this and provide information on
local forum at Smith Middle their important work. The cele-
School in Glastonbury from 3 to bration is intended to provide
5 p.m. January 15. All are wel- information on issues related to
come to attend. healthcare discrimination and
The focus of the celebration also inspire attendees to service
will be a subject Dr. King ad- and action as a result.
dressed in 1966, saying, “Of all David R. Williams is a Profes-
the forms of inequality, injustice sor of Public Health and chair
in health care is the most shock- of the Department of Social and
ing and inhumane.” Speakers Behavioral Sciences at the Har-
will include Dr. David Williams, vard School of Public Health. He
a professor at Harvard and an is also a Professor of African
internationally recognized so- and African American Studies
cial scientist focused on social and Sociology at Harvard Uni-
influences on health; and, Dr. versity. Previously, he served 6
Tekisha Dwan Everette, Execu- years on the faculty of Yale Uni-
tive Vice President of Trust for versity and 14 at the University
American’s Health, a health pol- of Michigan. He holds an MPH
icy advocacy organization. from Loma Linda University
US ARMY VETERAN VINNY PAYRS, a member of the East Hartford Veterans Commission and organizer of the The program will also in- and a PhD in Sociology from
Memorial Day Parade, was presented with a Quilt Of Valor by Cindy Guendert Monday at his home while his clude vocal performances by the the University of Michigan.
comrades look on. The quilts are made by volunteers across the state and are awarded to veterans in appre- Glastonbury Madrigals and the Dr. Williams is an interna-
ciation of their service. Tucked into the stars and folds of the three-layer quilt are the words “Your service, Our Windsor Teens of Praise Choir
freedom”. VFW and Veterans Commission members attended as did Mayor Mike Walsh. See MLK DAY FORUM, page 10
AROUND TOWN
2 THURSDAY, JANUARY 5, 2023 THE GAZETTE
30th Aselton Snow Dash AMERICAN EAGLE SUPPORTS SALVATION ARMY
The 30th running of the an- ford. The tragic loss of Officer
nual Officer Brian A. Aselton Aselton devastated the commu-
Memorial Snow Dash 5K Road nity. Officer Aselton was only
Race, sponsored by the East 26 years old when his brilliant
Hartford Parks and Recreation life was extinguished; yet, his
Department and the East Hart- spirit lives on in those who re-
ford Police Department, will be member him. Proceeds benefit
held on Sunday, January 8, the Officer Brian A. Aselton Me-
2023 at 1:30 PM. The race will morial Scholarship Fund and
start and finish at Langford East Hartford Police Child
School located at 61 Alps Drive. Safety and Crime Prevention
Over 200 runners are expected Programs.
to participate in the race that is Since the inception of
run in tribute to Officer Brian Brian’s scholarship fund 314
A. Aselton. Proceeds benefit the scholarships have been
East Hartford Police Depart- awarded.
ment Child Safety and Crime Originally, the race was de-
Prevention Programs and the veloped in 1993 to benefit the
Officer Brian Aselton Scholar- East Hartford Police Depart-
ship Fund. Commemorative ment’s Community Outreach Di-
award plaques will be awarded vision. The Community
for 1st, 2nd and 3rd in each di- Outreach Division operated
vision for men and women. Di- youth programs throughout
visions include 17 & under, town in areas such as Veterans
18-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59, 60-69, Terrace, Hockanum Park, May-
70-79, and 80 & up. Discount berry Village and East Hartford
Trophy generously provides the Estates. The race was renamed
awards. Official race apparel is for Officer Aselton in 2000. In
available race day. 2001, the Quality of Life Divi-
To register, go to https://run- sion took over these responsibil-
signup.com/Race/CT/EastHart- ities. In 2005, Child Safety and
ford/AseltonSnowDash Crime Prevention Programs be- AMERICAN EAGLE FINANCIAL CREDIT UNION donated $3,500 to the Salvation Army to support the organiza-
Day of registration must be came the race’s beneficiary. tion’s mission to assist local families in need during the holiday season. Pictured (Left to Right): Ryan McEleney,
completed using the online Run- Hundreds of East Hartford chil- Chief People Officer at American Eagle FCU, Major Migdalia Lavenbein, Greater Hartford Area Services Coor-
SignUp, no paper registration. dren and teens annually partic- dinator for The Salvation Army, Louise Aliano, AVP, Marketing at American Eagle FCU and Holly Fink, Events
On January 23, 1999, Police ipate in these programs. and Partnerships Manager for The Salvation Army.
Officer Brian A. Aselton gave
his life in the line of duty pro-
tecting the citizens of East Hart-
FMI call Recreation Supervi-
sor Jonathan Cooper at 860-291-
7164.
Christmas tree collection CLASSIFIEDS
All American Waste has that is the case, leave your tree-
started picking up disposed out at the curb and it will be
Christmas trees left at the curb collected once snow removal is
LOST DOG? ITEM FOR SALE? - A $12 ad
and will continue to do so done.
in the Gazette makes more sense than
through Friday, Jan. 13 - Residents also can bring
spending for markers, staplers, etc to
weather-permitting. Tree pick their Christmas trees to the
place ugly signs on telephone poles.
up is generally on the same day Transfer Station at 1 Ecology
as your trash collection. Put Drive, disposal is free. Regular BEAUTIFUL SCANDANAVIAN Dining
your Christmas tree out near transfer station hours are Mon- Room table, w/extra leaf, two matching
your trash bin without leaving day, Tuesday and Friday, 7:15 chairs, table top cover plus serving
it in a plastic bag. Remove all a.m. to noon and 12:30 to 2:45 table. Call 860-569-7077
decorations from the tree. If p.m.; and first and third Satur-
snow or ice is forecast, the tree day of the month, 8 a.m. to 1:45 FOR SALE - Jensen bluetooth all-in-one
pick-up may be delayed. But if p.m. FMI call 860-291-7374. hi-fi music system with PA, brand new,
in box. $70. Call 860-310-2971.
WAREHOUSE HELP WANTED
GLASTONBURY BUSINESS SEEKING
RESPONSIBLE & RELIABLE PERSON
WITH SKILLS FOR SHIPPING, RECEIV-
ING & OTHER WAREHOUSE DUTIES.
MONDAY THRU FRIDAY, 20-25 HOURS
PER WEEK, $17.00 PER HOUR.
CALL (860) 633-4248
GUITAR LESSONS from a certified
teacher with a degree in Jazz Guitar. All
levels welcome - I will meet you where
you are at and move you to the next level
Exp. 1-31-2023 and beyond. Contact Gary at 860-707-
4795. Local to East Hartford, travel to
me or I will travel to you.
THE GAZETTE THURSDAY, JANUARY 5, 2023 3
site at www.easthartfordct.gov. ing Town Hall Drop Box and
Town Hall departments at Cultural Center TOWN HALL DOCUMENT
DROP BOX: The Town Hall doc-
ballot box will move from their
original locations in the Town
All town departments will https://countyfusion7.kofiletec site at www.easthartfordct.gov. ument drop box and election Hall parking lot to a temporary
temporarily relocate to the h.us/countyweb/loginDis- PUBLIC MEETINGS parking lot to be located be-
ballot box will be available both
Community Cultural Center at play.action?town=EastHart- The following public meet- at Town Hall and the Commu- tween Firehouse 1 and the tem-
50 Chapman Place for the dura- fordCT&countyname=TownFu ings will be held at the Commu- nity Cultural Center. The exist-porary town Clerk trailer.
tion of construction, except for sion nity Cultural Center auditorium
the town Clerk’s Office, which Town Hall Notary Services located at 50 Chapman Place
will move to a temporary office will be suspended until further starting January, 2023 through
in front of Town Hall to enable notice. the duration of the renovations;
continued access to the town Fishing license service will Boards and Commissions:
vault. The Phase 1 move is com- be suspended until further no- The following boards and com-
pleted, Phase 2 is Jan. 4 – 6. tice. missions will meet at the Com-
Construction work at Town Engineering, Building De- munity Cultural Center until
Hall will begin on January 9, partment, Development, Grants, the end of Town Hall renova-
2023 and will conclude mid-Jan- Mayor’s Office, Human Re- tions: Zoning Board of Appeals,
uary, 2024. sources, and Corporation Coun- Planning and Zoning Commis-
Town Hall departments will sel will move on Friday, Jan. 6. sion, and the Inlands Wetlands
be in the Cultural Center except These departments will be commission. Meeting locations
for the Town Clerk’s office closed to the public starting for all other boards and com-
which will remain at the TODAY, Thursday, Jan. 5 at 4:30 missions will be listed on their
temorary structure set up on PM through Monday, Jan. 9 at meeting agendas on their web-
the lawn of Town Hall. noon. East Hartford Probate pages at https://www.easthart-
During the move, there will Court will relocate to 50 Chap- fordct.gov/boards
be no service or limited service man Place Friday, Jan. 6. For Town Council: Starting Jan-
to the public this week. specific service changes and uary, 2023, town Council meet-
The Town Clerk’s office hours, call 860-682-7278. ings will move to the
closed to the public on Wednes- Social Services Department auditorium of the Community
day Jan. 4 and willk reopen on will move to the Cultural Com- Cultural Center located at 50
Friday, Jan. 6 at 8:30 AM. Due munity Center located at 50 Chapman Place. Meetings will
to the scope of renovations in Chapman Street PERMA- remain available in person or
the town Clerk’s vault, public NENTLY on Friday, Jan. 6, virtual via Microsoft teams.
access to the vault will be lim- 2023. Social Services Depart- The Town Hal;l mailing ad-
ited to Tuesdays and Thursdays ment will be closed to the pub- dress will remain 740 Main
from 8:30 am – noon and will lic on Thursday, Jan. 5 through Street, East Hartford 06108 for
be by appointment only. To Monday, January 9 at noon. all Town Hall departments for
schedule an appointment, In order to minimize service the duration of the renovation.
please call 860-291-7230. Ap- disruptions to the general pub- Contacts, location and phone
pointments are only required lic during the move dates, the numbers are on the town web-
for viewing records older than town is asking the public to uti-
from 1960s. All records from lize as many online services as
1960s and to date have been possible to allow departments
digitized and are available at to settled in. Use the town web-
Thursday, January 5, 2023
PUBLISHED BY ACORN MEDIA SERVICES LLC Founded October, 1885 by Henry Bidwell Hale William A. Doak, editor editor@ehgazette.com
1406 Main Street, East Hartford, Connecticut 06108 www.EHGazette.com John Karas, jkaras@ehgazette.com Corinne Horan-Action!
Office: 860-289-6468 O Fax: 888-809-3026 ‘Devoted to Local Interests’ Advertising: ads@ehgazette.com
OPINIONS - LETTERS - SPEAKING OUT!
East Hartford 2022, Part II: Momentous year set table for 2023 - all aboard!
A Community Mental Health sues, and we added a Deputy But it’s also all the members
By Mike Walsh Coordinator was hired in 2022 Development Director and a of all the Boards and Commis-
MAYOR and will work closely with Po- Deputy Heath Director to add sions like the Redevelopment
lice to better assist residents in capacity and resiliency to each Agency who moved Silver Lane
Part II of the report on behavioral and mental health organization. Mostly, this Plaza along to where it is today.
progress and projects made in crisis. change was paid for by eliminat- 2022 was a team effort across
2022 that will carry over into Additionally, the Police De- ing two positions. party lines.
2023: partment will move to District There were other noteworthy As I close, I also want to sin-
As stated in the first column, Policing whereby six Lieu- things completed like revalua- gle out all directors who keep
the re-branded East Hartford tenants will oversee six specific tion with a zero tax increase the railroad running and wel-
Works!, formerly known as East geographic areas of town, giving budget. While taxes shifted, it come the newest of them who
Hartford Connects, continues to residents better access and was due to the increasing value joined me and the town in 2022
link residents to jobs through more interaction with the Police of residential homes and not including Chief of Staff Connor
job training, apprentiships, or and with their neighborhood new spending. Martin, Corporation Counsel
resume building exercises. The Lieutenants. As you can see, 2022 was a Jim Tallberg, Assistant Corpora-
First Responder Youth Acad- In 2022, we moved to an out- busy year, but 2023 will be tion Counsel Robert Fitzgerald,
emy taking high school seniors side vendor to collect weekly re- busier. Know that nothing is Finance Director Melissa
and allowing them to see first- fuse and bulky waste. The move done alone, so here’s a shout McCaw, HR Director Tyron Har-
hand the jobs Police and Fire was made to reduce operating out to our most excellent Leg- ris, Fire Chief Kevin Munson,
personnel do was created. and capital costs associated islative Delegation of Rojas, Public Works Director Marilynn
It was great to see and put a with the program, as well as in- Genga, Currey, and Anwar, our Cruz-Aponte, Associate Public
dozen or so our children on a crease service. entire Town Council led by Works Directors Allyn Tarbell
path to working in important, We also created a new organ- Chairman Rich Kehoe, Vice and Gary McKeone, Projects
meanigful careers. These jobs ization to assist this Mayor and Chairman Don Bell, Majority Manager Jessica Carrero, and
are hard to fill for our town, future Mayors to run Town Hall
MAYOR MIKE WALSH Leader Sebrina Wilson, and Mi- out of my office, Executive Sec-
and they offer a generous pen- efficiently. We did that by first ministrative Officer, first Chief nority Leader John Morrison as retary Jessenia Martinez.
sion, excellent medical coverage presenting in front of the Town Diversity Officer, first Project well as members Parkinson, Working together, your town
- two key ingredients to building Council. The new organization Management Office, a Quality of Amadasun Jr, Tsegai, Simpson, is moving forward, so all aboard
a community - and a family. adds the Town’s first Chief Ad- Life team dedicated to local is- and Rup. in 2023!
Obstacles to alternative energy projects must be overcome, says Murphy
U.S. Senator Chris Murphy begin to remedy the injustices decade to permit and build off- better decisions and elevate san Infrastructure Law have the
(D-Conn.) authored an op-ed in that communities of color and shore wind, clean transporta- substantive protections over potential to accelerate the ur-
the Boston Globe with Brad low income have suffered at the tion, and major electric procedural parrying. Transition- gent shift to clean energy de-
Campbell, president of the Con- hands of government — from transmission. This is as unac- ing to clean energy and achiev- manded by the climate crisis.
servation Law Foundation, to major highways cutting through ceptable as it is unnecessary. ing climate justice require hard They can help shore up failing
make the case for a progressive the heart of communities to un- While permitting is not the only choices, and progressives and and unsafe infrastructure hold-
vision of permitting reform. safe drinking water,” Murphy source of delay, it is virtually environmentalists need to rec- ing back our economy, and
Murphy and Campbell argue and Campbell wrote. “But it is impossible to build out essential ognize that those choices are begin to remedy the injustices
that the United States needs to impossible to realize this poten- infrastructure and clean energy necessary. The work to achieve that communities of color and
reform its permitting process in tial without addressing the na- under the current approach to a cleaner, more equitable future low income have suffered at the
order to meet the urgency of the tion’s failing regulatory federal, state, and local project will not be possible unless we hands of government — from
climate crisis and realize the infrastructure. Outdated and review and approvals. Pretend- lead the cause of permitting re- major highways cutting through
full potential of the Inflation Re- unwieldy review and permitting ing otherwise sacrifices any form and stop ceding that the heart of communities to un-
duction Act and the Infrastruc- processes hinder our ability to claim the United States has to ground to the opposition. Oth- safe drinking water.
ture Investment and Jobs Act. meet the urgency of the climate global climate leadership and erwise, our hopes for timely “But it is impossible to real-
“The recently passed Infla- crisis and bog down much- any hope for the communities and just climate action, rational ize this potential without ad-
tion Reduction Act and the Bi- needed projects in delays and hit first and worst by pollution infrastructure choices, and dressing the nation’s failing
partisan Infrastructure Law litigation that fail to safeguard and climate risk from fossil healthier communities using the regulatory infrastructure. Out-
have the potential to accelerate the communities and the natu- fuels.” new resources Congress has dated and unwieldy review and
the urgent shift to clean energy ral resources they’re designed Murphy and Campbell con- just provided will be crushed permitting processes hinder
demanded by the climate crisis. to protect.” cluded: “Rather than idealize under the slow-moving wheels our ability to meet the urgency
They can help shore up failing On the currently inefficient the status quo, we need to imag- of a broken system.” of the climate crisis and bog
and unsafe infrastructure hold- permitting process, Murphy and ine and build consensus around The recently passed Inflation down much-needed projects in
ing back our economy, and Campbell wrote: “It can take a reforms that lead to quicker, Reduction Act and the Biparti- delays and litigation.”
THE GAZETTE THURSDAY, JANUARY 5, 2023 5
6 THURSDAY, JANUARY 5, 2023 THE GAZETTE
A RTS & E NTERTAINMENT
‘UNFINISHED BUSINESS’
Silk City Chorus is back at Cheney Hall
for two augmented shows January 14th
Manchester's Silk City Cho- nual show in a few years. as MOSAIC will entertain.
rus will tend to 'Unfinished Silk City Chorus, part of the There will be two shows: Jan.
Business' Jan. 14 for its first an- Manchester CT Chapter of the 14 at 1:30, and the second at
Barbershop Harmony Society, is 7:30 p.m. Admission is $25 with
East Hartford presenting "Unfinished Busi-
ness" at historic Cheney Hall,
reserved seating close to the
stage $50.
Garden Club 177 Hartford Road, Manchester.
According to the chorus
The reserved seats will be set
up cabaret style and includes
offering $1K press release, "several world
class guest groups" will be on
wine, beer and snacks.
Cheney Hall is a small venue
college study hand to add to the perform-
ance. QUORUM, current gold-
so those interested are advised
to get their tickets early.
scholarship medal champions of the
Barbershop Harmony Society
You may also meet and
minglwe with the barbershop-
The East Hartford Garden will be on hand as will THE pers at a post-concert 'after-
Club offers a scholarship to any CLEMENTONES, current Inter- glow" ($19 admission) planned
college student from East Hart- national Champions of the Next at the Urban Lodge Brewing
ford and severeal surrounding Generation quartet division Co., 47 Purnell Place located
towns who will be majoring in coming to Manchester from just off Main Street, Manchester.
enviromental sciences, agricul- Denmark. For tickets, go to www.man-
ture or a related subject. Appli- Two well-known regional chesterchorus.com/annualshow The new offices for the Town Clerk
cations are now in all school
guidance offices and are due
quartets will also appear -
VOCE and DESTINATION. And
or call 860-775-2773. For unable
to attend, the show may be
has been set up on the front lawn
opf Town Hall, 740 Main Street. The
Pancakes at
April 1. One $1,000 scholarship
will be awarded.
the Silk City's newer chapter
chorus of mixed voices known
viewed online for a $25 sub-
scription fee. Go to: http://ned-
Town Clerk needs to have access to
the vault in Town Hall which will be
the Grange
streaming.com to sign up. closed for the year for renovations. this Saturday
Start the New Year off with
flapjacks! Come to the Winter
Pancake Breakfast at Hillstown
Grange, 617 Hills St., Saturday,
Jan. 7, starting at 8:30 a.m. to
11.
Breakfast includes pancakes
and sausage, coffee, tea and
juice - all for $5 ($3 kids 14 and
under). January's pancake of
the month will be "Black Forest
Pancakes".
All you can eat regular pan-
cakes, and bottomless cups of
coffee.
As you finish, visit the up-
stairs Grange Hall library where
all books are for sale for a do-
nation to mainitain the historic
Grange Hall which dates back to
1888.
Notice: Thursday, Jan. 26 is
Hillstown Grange Seed Night.
More info will be forthcoming
about this annual event.
Hillstown is the town's early
agrarian neighborhood at the
junction of East Hartford, Glas-
tonbury, and Manchester.
FMI call Frank at 860-690-
2845 or e-mail hillstown-
grange@aol.com.
Hillstown Grange website is
www.HillstownGrange.org. The
Connecticut state Grange info is
at www.CTStateGrange.org.
THE GAZETTE THURSDAY, JANUARY 5, 2023 7
Society
Inspire Center is open now
The Inspire Center is coming to the Connecticut Historical
Society (CHS)!
What happens when an inventor's home becomes a history
museum? Inspired by Curtis Veeder who was the inventor of
the bicycle cyclometer, the founder of the Veeder Manufacturing
Company, and the original owner and inhabitant of the CHS's
current facility in Hartford's West End), the Inspire Center brings
together history, problem-solving, and creativity!
During Saturdays and Sundays in 2023, the Inspire Center
will open to visitors of all ages. Using items from the CHS col-
lection as inspiration, visitors will be prompted to identify the
problem solved by these historic objects, brainstorm a new, imag-
inative solution, and build a prototype of their innovative inven-
tion.
The Inspire Center is made possible thanks to a generous
grant from the Gawlicki Family Foundation. Ted Gawlicki, Co-
Founder of the Gawlicki Family Foundation says of the Founda-
tion's support, "It is new ideas that keep the world moving
forward!"
Robert A. Kret, Executive Director and C.E.O. of the CHS, be-
lieves that the Inspire Center will encourage active participation
across an entire family, among a group of friends, or by solo par-
ticipants. "Our vision is to see patrons enjoying and using the
museum. We want to encourage people to interact with and ex-
plore objects from our collection by asking questions and expe-
riencing the CHS as a unique, engaging, and memorable
destination to visit time and again."
Connecticut is known for its innovations and history, and the
Inspire Center will pair these two themes in a creative space for
all. The Inspire Center will be open at the Connecticut Historical
Society on Saturdays from 9 a.m. - 4:30 p.m., and Sundays from
noon - 4:30 p.m. Access to the Inspire Center is free.
8 THURSDAY, JANUARY 5, 2023 THE GAZETTE
EAST HARTFORD SPORTS
Crawford still part of Wolf Pack EH’s Patrick Agyemang drafted
I spent some time on the phone last week with a fa- History was made for East
miliar voice, doing some catching up. Hartford High School when the
Bob Crawford’s resignation as public relations direc- first soccer player from town
tor and play-by-play man of the Hartford Wolf Pack last was drafted by a Major League
season ended Hartford’s connection with the team that Soccer team.
moved from Binghampton to the Hartford Civic Center Patrick Agyemang, a member
following the Whalers departure in 1997. Following the of the University of Rhode Is-
firing of Ken Gernander in 2017 Crawford became the land's men's soccer squad, was
senior member of the Wolf Pack staff. selected in the opening round of
the Major League Soccer Super-
Draft.
SCOTT GRAY on SPORTS The East Hartford High grad
was selected 12th overall in the
by Scott Gray draft by Charlotte, North Car-
olina's Football Club.
Gernander was the captain of the Bing- Agyemang was at home with
hampton Rangers when the team his family when they learned
picked up stakes and moved to Hart- the news. MLS dispatched a
ford. He went on to become an assis- camera crew to his home to
tant coach for two seasons before being capture the moment.
elevated to the head coaching position One of the most dominant
in 2007. scorers in the Atlantic 10, Agye-
As a play by play man Crawford is one of the best in mang recorded 50 points (19
the business, following the puck and flow and the play- goals, 12 assists) for the Rams
ers with remarkable consistency. This I know firsthand, in just 37 matches. He was a
having worked on the broadcast crew with him for sev- 2022 First Team All-Conference
eral seasons, a privileged position that allowed me to selection after leading URI in
total points (16 points. 7 goals,
watch the game while I listened to Bobby’s call of it. 2 assists) for the third consecu-
Last spring Bob accepted the post of Communications tive season.
Director for Special Events for the NHL and moved into A three-time A-10 Player of EHHS and URI Ram’s soccer standout Patrick Agyemang.
an office just a couple of blocks from Madison Square the Week and two-time College featured 44 of the nation’s top New York Red Bulls in the third
Garden with a spectacular view of downtown Manhat- Soccer News National Team of collegiate players. round (62nd pick) in the 2020
tan. If ever anyone paid his dues to earn such a position the Week selection in the fall, Agyemang became the first SuperDraft.
it’s Bob Crawford, who will never forget his time in cen- Agyemang shined at the recent Rhode Island player to be Overall, four URI players
tral Connecticut, where his kids grew up and went off to adidas MLS College Showcase. drafted since Stavros have been selected in the Super-
college and his wife taught school. He still maintains a Held in Raleigh, N.C., the camp Zarokostas was taken by the Draft.
residence here and on some days commutes to New
York. For years he was a regular attendee at the Willow
Inn Hot Stove League meetings here in East Hartford.
When I talked to Bob he was in Boston, directing pub-
Kalugira wins Connecticut Heisman
licity for the annual NHL Winter Classic outdoor game Elizabeth Kalugira, Senior at become National Finalists or tige to our nation’s most es-
played Tuesday at Fenway Park. It was evident a lot of East Hartford High School, has National Winners. National Fi- teemed high school seniors by
his heart is still with the Wolf Pack and the friends he won an $1,000 scholarship as nalists receive a $2,000 college recognizing and rewarding out-
made here. the Heisman High School Schol- scholarship and the male and standing scholar-athletes who
arship State Winner for Con- female National Winners will understand that the most im-
Happy New Year Bob. When the NHL looked to fill an necticut. each receive a $10,000 college portant victories not only hap-
important position they found the right person. Today, The Heisman Trophy scholarship. National Finalists pen on the field, but in their
Happy New Year to the UCONN men’s basketball Trust announced the 2022 will be announced on Novem- schools and communities.
team. It probably doesn’t seem happy with a two point State Winners for the Heisman ber 7 and the National Winners These remarkable young lead-
dip in the national polls, from second to fourth, just High School Scholarship. will be announced on Novem- ers set the example and make
when they were positioning for another move up. The From an applicant pool of ber 30. a game-changing difference
drop in the rankings followed the Huskies first loss of thousands of high school “I am very excited and grate- every day, paving the way to
the season, by ten points to 18th ranked Xavier last Sat- scholar-athletes graduating ful to have earned money to- greatness for everyone around
urday. It was a valuable loss for UCONN after jumping with the class of 2023, 100 stu- ward college and have the them.
to 11-0, their best start in a quarter of a century. I still dents have been named State opportunity to earn more. Win- To apply, students must be
think they have the best bench and the best backup cen- Winners in the Heisman High ning this scholarship would graduating with the class of
ter in the nation and they may be the best team in the School Scholarship competition greatly lessen the financial 2023, have a cumulative
country. Knowing what it feels like to lose will give them awarded by The Heisman Tro- stress of college expenses for weighted high school grade
incentive to prove all of the above. phy Trust. me and my family,” said Kalu- point average of a B (3.0) or
Rest in peace Edson Arantes do Nascimento. Known Kalugira is a basketball and gira. better, participate in at least
worldwide by just his nickname, Pele, the greatest soc- volleyball athlete who is also at The Heisman Memorial Tro- one of the sports recognized by
the top of her class in academ- phy is annually awarded to the the International Olympic Com-
cer player in the world, the Brazilian who was the only ics. most outstanding college foot- mittee, the Paralympic Games
player to win three World Cup titles, was 82 years old State Winners will receive a ball player in the nation. The and/or the National Federation
when he passed away last week. $1,000 college scholarship and Heisman High School Scholar- of State High School Associa-
To all, Happy New Year. continue on for the chance to ship extends the Heisman pres- tion and be a leader.
THE GAZETTE THURSDAY, JANUARY 5, 2023 9
OBITUARIES
Henry ‘Hank’ Grejdus, 93; Korean War veteran Joan (Kelliher) Newman; nurse
Henry S. "Hank" Grejdus, 93, three adored daughters, Joan Frances (Kelliher)
of East Hartford, beloved hus- Barbara Dell and her husband Newman of East Hartford, lov-
band of 65 years of the late C. Jon of Stafford Springs, Nancy ing wife of 50 years to the late
Catherine "Cathie" (Hutzler) Cadwallader and her husband John R. Newman passed away
Grejdus, and loving father, Steve of East Hartford, Diane unexpectedly on Monday,
grandfather, and great-grandfa- Snow and her husband Jimmy December 26, 2022 in Cohasset,
ther, peacefully passed away on of Plantsville; six cherished MA after celebrating a beautiful
Wednesday, December 28, 2022 grandchildren, Ryan Dell and Christmas with loved ones.
with his family members at his his fiancé Tori Fossett, Jackie Born in Hartford on February
side. Dell and her partner Morgan 27, 1939, the daughter of the
Born on November 19, 1929 Soucy, Tommy Snow and his late Timothy F. and Mary
in New Britain, a son of the late wife Megan, Amanda Snow and (Foley) Kelliher, she resided in
Boleslaus and Stephania her fiancé Leon Peschel, East Hartford for the past 59
(Krzywasc) Grejdus, Hank had Lindsay Cadwallader years. Joan was a graduate of
been a resident of East Rodriguez and her husband Our Lady of Sorrows School in
Hartford for many years. Aaron, and Joshua Hartford, Hartford Public High
He grew up in the Polish Cadwallader; and a great- School class of 1957, and the St.
community of New Britain, and grandson, Henry Snow. He also Frances Hospital School of
graduated from New Britain leaves special family members Nursing class of 1960. Prior to
High School, class of 1947. from Texas including a brother- her retirement, Joan was
After high school he began his in-law, Thomas Hutzler and his employed by St. Mary Home,
duty in the U.S. Air Force in wife Kathy of Kirby, TX; a sis- West Hartford where she was Joan Newman
January of 1950. During the Henry Grejdus ter-in-law, Joan Kiefel of Lake the nursing director for its leaves a sister, Maureen A.
four years he was enlisted, he was a dedicated volunteer for Jackson, TX; several nieces, Memory Care day program. A (Kelliher) Steck, and a brother
trained at Lackland Air Force the church where he was a nephews, cousins, and dear devout Catholic, Joan was a Timothy F. Kelliher, Jr. both of
Base in San Antonio, TX and counter of money, in charge of friends, especially his close faithful daily communicant of Newington; and many dear
was stationed in California, the church bingo, and a church friend Frank. Our Lady of Peace Church, East nieces, nephews and friends.
Japan, and Korea (during the trustee. Funeral services took place Hartford. Spending time with Funeral service took place
Korean War), keeping his F-84 Hank had several hobbies, on Wednesday, January 4, 2023 friends and family, especially on Tuesday, January 3, with a
Fighter plane in working order. including fishing, golfing, read- with a Mass of Christian Burial her two granddaughters, was Mass of Christian Burial cele-
While at Lackland Air Force ing, woodworking, playing celebrated at Our Lady of her greatest joy, along with brated at Our Lady of Peace
Base he met the love of his life, cards, and creating and tending Peace Church of St. Edmund being a loving and caring friend Church of St. Edmund
Cathie, who worked as a secre- to his garden every summer. He Campion Parish followed by to all who knew her. Campion Parish followed by
tary at the base. He married was also the best "fix-it" indi- burial with military honors at Joan is survived by two burial at West Meadow
her on July 23, 1955 and they vidual who would fix anything Veteran's Memorial Field - daughters. Nancy R. Newman Cemetery, Newington.
made their "Honeymoon" trek and everything that was asked Silver Lane Cemetery. of East Hartford, Eileen E. Memorial contributions may
up to Connecticut where they of him. He also liked traveling Memorials may be made to a Newman of Boston, MA; a son, be made to the Shriners
lived first in New Britain, with his beloved wife Cathie favorite charity of the donor's Dennis P. Newman and his Children’s Hospital of Boston,
before settling in East Hartford. after his retirement. Recently choice. For on-line expressions wife, Whitney, and her beloved 51 Blossom Street, Boston, MA
He began working at Pratt & (although he missed Cathie) he of sympathy to the family, granddaughters Rorie A. 02114 https://www.shrinerschil-
Whitney Aircraft in East had been enjoying trips to please visit Newman and Kylie J. Newman drens.org/en/locations/boston/
Hartford in January of 1955 Vermont with his family. www.desopoeh.com. all of Cohasset, MA. She also about-us/ways-to-give.
testing aircraft engines, and He also participated in
retired in 1994 after 39 years of
dedicated service.
social clubs such as the East
Hartford Senior Center, Army
Hedwig ‘Hedy’ (Marszalek) Stepien, 98
Hank and Cathie raised Navy Club in Manchester for Hedwig C. “Hedy” beloved daughter, Theodora A.
their three daughters in East card games, East Hartford (Marszalek) Stepien, 98, of East Grzesiak; her loving grandson,
Hartford, and enjoyed his grow- Senior Golf League, Korean Hartford, beloved wife for 70 Ricky Grzesiak; five brothers
ing family which included six War Veterans Association, and years of the late Stanley J. and three sisters. Hedy’s family
grandchildren and a recent weekly card games with his Stepien, Sr., passed away peace- would like to thank the entire
great-grandson and was looking best buddies. Most of all, Hank fully on Monday, December 19, staff at By The River Assisted
forward to his second great- was a proud and devoted hus- 2022. Born in Worcester, MA Living in Marlborough for the
grandchild in February 2023. A band, father, and grandfather on September 21, 1924, she was care and compassion toward
devout Catholic, Hank was a who enjoyed experiencing the the daughter of the late Walter Hedy and her entire family over
faithful and active communi- successes of his daughters, and Theodora (Tutas) the last three years.
cant of Our Lady of Peace sons-in-law, and grandchildren. Marszalek. Hedy worked as an Funeral services and burial
Church in East Hartford. He Hank is survived by his inspector for Heublein in will be private. Donations in
Hartford for 22 years. She Hedy’s memory may be made
enjoyed tending to her beauti- to North American Martyrs
ful flower garden, but was hap- Parish, 15 Maplewood Avenue,
piest when she was able to East Hartford, CT 06108 or the
spend time with her family. Office of Radio & Television, 15
Hedy will be forever missed Peach Orchard Road, Prospect,
by her two children, Stanley J. CT 06712. The D’Esopo-East
Stepien, Jr. and companion Hartford Memorial Chapel, 30
June Mason of Enfield and Hedwig Stepien Carter Street, East Hartford
The Gazette publishes the obituaries of Irene Cook and husband Gary has been entrusted with the
of Higganum; 6 adored grand- is also survived by many arrangements. To share a mem-
those connected to East Hartford free of children, 12 cherished great- nieces, nephews and a dear ory of Hedy with her family,
grandchildren and 3 precious friend, Simone St. Onge. She please visit
charge. Email to editor@ehgazette.com great-great grandchildren. She was predeceased by her www.desopoeh.com.
10 THURSDAY, JANUARY 5, 2023 THE GAZETTE
Town to receive millions for Downtown projects; $16M to CCAT, $2M to Goodwin
From Page One $4 million for the Town of ing at Hartford’s Charter Oak $650,000 to the Hispanic become Violence Prevention
today’s bill will provide 69 F-35s East Hartford to purchase the Landing, including wharf deck Federation for the Financial Ed- Professionals (VPPs).
built by our word-class machin- former Downtown Post Office replacement and structural re- ucation Initiative Program to $2 million for the Connecti-
ists right here in CT-01. I’m and renovate the historic build- pairs. offer financial literacy trainings cut Historical Society’s Educat-
proud to advocate for the best ing as an annex to the Raymond $2.4 million for the iQuilt in both English and Spanish for ing for Democracy Project and
machinists and engineers in the Library. Partnership to advance the residents. Community History Project to
world who make the safest and $3 million for the towns of Hartford400 project’s East West $3 million to the Town of teach history and advance
most capable fighter engine ever Manchester and East Hartford River links, transforming two Windsor for the Broad Street civics education for K-12 stu-
produced,” Larson continued. to remove and replace approxi- existing and two new bridges Complete Streets initiative to re- dents and develop a collection
“As the Ukrainian people mately 1,300 linear feet of ele- into walkable, bikeable street shape Windsor Center to be- of artifacts and first-hand ac-
fight back against Putin’s unpro- vated timber boardwalk bridges that knit together the come more pedestrian friendly counts to catalog the experience
voked aggression, it is especially structures in Laurel Marsh. nine towns of the Capital Re- and add vitality to downtown. of living through the COVID-19
critical that House Democrats $500,000 for Mothers United gion. $1.3 million to Hartford pandemic.
secured emergency funding to Against Violence to direct sup- $1 million for the United Communities that Care for The $2.2 million for Goodwin
support Ukraine and our NATO port to underserved families States Army Corps of Engineers Brother Carl Institute for Work- University’s Mobile Manufactur-
allies in this bill. Under Presi- who have been impacted by vi- to fund the study needed to rec- force and Career Readiness to ing Lab and Nursing Program to
dent Biden’s leadership, the olence in the Greater Hartford ommend modifications to Hart- train and employ school-aged increase workforce training ca-
United States has united our area. ford and East Hartford’s levee youth and adults ages 17-35 to pacity.
partner nations across the globe $16 million for a new Con- systems along the Connecticut
in support of Ukraine, and yes-
terday, we heard firsthand from
necticut Manufacturing Technol-
ogy & Innovation Center,
providing additional capacity
River.
$750,000 to the town of East
Hartford to rehabilitate the
MLK forum in Glastonbury
President Zelenskyy how our From Page One is the most widely used meas-
support has made the differ- for the Connecticut Center for Church Corners Inn into high-
Advanced Technology (CCAT) quality one-bedroom housing tionally recognized social scien- ure of discrimination in health
ence in their fight. The funding studies. Dr. Williams has played
we passed today will ensure and the State of Connecticut to with a set-aside for low-income tist focused on social influences
expand its research capabilities and veteran tenants. on health. His research has en- a visible, national leadership
that support remains unwaver- role in raising awareness levels
ing,” Larson concluded. and scale-up current program- $750,000 for the Connecticut hanced our understanding of
ming. Trolley Museum to move for- the ways in which health can be of the problem of health in-
The following Community equalities and identifying inter-
Funding Projects for the First $1 million to the City of ward the goal of developing the affected by socioeconomic sta-
Hartford and Riverfront Recap- Trolley Museum into a living tus, race, stress, racism, health ventions to address them.
District were included in this The Glastonbury MLK Com-
year’s funding package: ture to address seasonal flood- history museum. behavior and religious involve-
ment. He is the author of more munity Initiative’s mission is to
than 475 scientific papers and increase knowledge about, and
he has served on the editorial understanding of, the philoso-
board of 12 scientific journals phy of Dr. Martin Luther King,
and as a reviewer for over 75 and to provide leadership and
others. The Everyday Discrimi- active engagement to build an
nation Scale that he developed inclusive community.THE GAZETTE THURSDAY, JANUARY 5, 2023 11
Local Services You Can Trust
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ads@ehgazette.com12 THURSDAY, JANUARY 5, 2023 THE GAZETTE
WHERE THE ACTION IS! BY CORINNE HORAN
AQUA ZUMBA will be held on Mondays and and DESTINATION. And the Silk City's newer Ukraine, she earned diplomas from the Manhat-
Thursday evenings from 5:30 – 6:30pm at the chapter chorus of mixed voices known as MO- tan School of Music and Hartt School of Music.
East Hartford Middle School pool. The winter SAIC will entertain. Two shows are 1:30 and The program will include Mykola Lysenko’s “Le
session will include 16 classes and is $64 for 7:30 p.m. Admission is $25 with reserved seat- rêve”, Op. 12; Vik-
residents and non-residents. Classes will begin ing close to the stage $50. The reserved seats tor Kosenko’s
on Monday, January 9, 2023. Pre-registration is will be set up cabaret style and includes wine, “Étude no. 8 in F-
required online at www.ehparks.org, and regis- beer and snacks. Cheney Hall is a small venue sharp minor” from
tration is open now. ADULT ZUMBA AND YO- so those interested are advised to get their tick- Eleven Études Ro-
GALATES will be held on Tuesday and Thursday ets early. Meet the singers at the post-concert mantique, Op. 8,
evenings at the Sunset Ridge Middle School 'afterglow" ($19 admission) planned at the “Etude-gavot” from
Gymnasium. Zumba will be from 6 – 7pm and Urban Lodge Brewing Co., 47 Purnell Place. Etudes in the Form
Yogalates will be from 7:15 – 8pm. The winter Tickets, go to www.manchesterchorus.com/an- of Old Dances, Op
session will include 20 classes and is $80 for nualshow or call 860-775-2773. For unable to 19, and Two Poem-
residents and non-residents. Classes will begin attend, the show may be viewed online for a $25 Legends, Op. 12;
on Tuesday, January 10, 2023. Pre-registration subscription fee. Go to: http://ned- Maurice Ravel’s
is required online at www.ehparks.org, and regis- streaming.com to sign up. “Sonatine”; Sergei
tration is open to residents and non-residents. *** Prokofiev’s “Sar-
Class instructors are from Eliza’s Energy Source. VETERANS COFFEE HOUR at the East Hartford casms”, Op. 17;
See you there! Senior Center, 15 Milwood Dr., third Tuesday of Robert Schu-
*** the month at 10 a.m. All veterans welcome! mann’s
THE EAST HARTFORD ST. PATRICK’S DAY PA- *** “Faschingss-
RADE COMMITTEE ARE HOSTING A SUNDAY JAN 15: MARK DR. MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR.’S chwank aus Wien”,
BRUNCH in recognition of this year's East Hart- BIRTHDAY by focusing on an issue Dr. King Op. 26; Franz Schu-
ford Parade Marshal and Town Honoree. would have been concerned about. The Glaston- bert’s “Serenade”
The 2023 Town Marshal selected is Shannon bury MLK Community Initiative is sponsoring and Gershwin and
Russell while Carrie Lyn Howe is East Hartford's this town-wide event at Smith Middle School in Wild’s "The Man I Love". Reception follows. FMI,
St. Patrick's Day Town Honoree. Both women will Glastonbury from 3 to 5 p.m. The focus of the weather updates call 860-416-6920 or click on
be toasted at the gala on February 5, 2023 at celebration will be on Health Disparities: the the SWCA Facebook page, https://www.face-
11 a.m. at the Knights of Columbus Hall, 1831 Racial, Economic, Cultural and Social Causes. book.com/SouthWindsorCulturalArts/
Main St., East Hartford. Donation: $25. BYOB- Dr. King addressed this inequity in 1966, saying, ***
mixers will be available. Raffles, music, food, “Of all the forms of inequality, injustice PROJECT LINUS delivers blankets to local hospi-
fun and a good time. All are welcome to attend. in health care is the most shocking and inhu- tals. We are always looking for people to donate
For tickets call Sana at 860-558-6261 or mane.” This is a free event open to all. FMI go to their hand-made quilts or afghans. These blan-
Theresa at 860-568-7685. Or ask the 2023 East www.glastonburymlkci.org or email glaston- kets need not be fancy just colorful and wash-
Hartford Parade Marshal and Parade Honoree. burymlkci@gmail.com. Bring a non-perishable able, any size from receiving to twin. To arrange
*** food item for the Glastonbury Food Pantry. to donate call 860-649-5513.
JAN 7: Start 2023 off with a heaping stack of *** ***
hot flapjacks! The WINTER PANCAKE BREAK- JAN 16: Windsor's Archer Memorial A.M.E. Zion ALZHEIMER’S SUPPORT GROUP at Riverside
FAST at Hillstown Grange, 617 Hills St., is Satur- Church annual DR. MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR. Health & Rehab Center meets the second
day, Jan. 7 starting at 8:30 a.m. and ending at CELEBRATION Monday, Jan. 16 at 2 p.m. at the Wednesday of the month at 6 p.m., 745 Main St.
11. Hot, freshpancakes, sausage, coffee, tea Windsor Town Hall Council Chambers, 275 Facilitated by Scott Ginter. RSVP: 860-289-2791.
and juice - all for $5 ($3 kids 14 and under). Jan- Broad St., Windsor. Keynote speaker is Leonard ***
uary's POM - Pancake Of the Month - will be Lockhart, Vice President of the Windsor Board of HIGH SCHOOL SENIORS impacted by
"Black Forest Pancakes". All-you-can-eat regular Education. He is also the Vice President and Di- Alzheimer's disease can win up to $5,000 for
pancakes, bottomless cup of coffee. Climb the versity, Equity & Inclusion Chair on the CT Asso- college through the Alzheimer's Foundation of
stairs and take a peak at the Grange Hall Li- ciation of Board of Education (CABE). All are America's (AFA) Teen Alzheimer's Awareness
brary. Books are for sale for a donation to maini- welcome. The program will also include a spe- Scholarship. Students can enter the contest by
tain historic Grange Hall. Notice: Thursday, Jan. cial tribute to the late U.S. Representative and visiting www.alzfdn.org/scholarship. The dead-
26 is Hillstown Grange Seed Night. What is Hill- civil rights icon, John Lewis. Free. FMI 860-688- line for submissions is March 1, 2023. College-
stown, you ask? Hillstown is the historic neigh- 5225 or churchsec@archeramezchurch.com bound high school seniors are invited to apply
borhood where East Hartford, Glastonbury, and *** for the scholarship by submitting an essay
Manchester meet. Be a Hillstowner - join the JAN 17: Meeting of the CT Fly Fisherman’s Asso- (1,500 words maximum) or submitting a video,
Grange. FMI call Frank at 860-690-2845 or hill- ciation, Tuesday at 6:30 p.m. at the Pitkin Com- no more than four minutes long, describing how
stowngrange@aol.com. munity Center, 30 Greenfield St., Wethersfield. Alzheimer's disease has impacted their lives and
*** Shown will be the movie, “Floating Flies”. Also what they have learned about themselves, their
JAN 14: Enjoy great music and fun company election of officers will take place. All are wel- family and/or their community through their ex-
with the members of Manchester's Silk City Cho- come to attend. Pizza served during movie. Free. perience with Alzheimer's.
rus as they tend to 'Unfinished Business' in their *** ***
first public show in a while. The Silk City Chorus, JAN 29: PIANIST LIANA PANIYEVA will perform DIAPERS NEEDED: The residents of My Sisters'
part of the Manchester CT Chapter of the Barber- Sunday, Jan. 29 in South Windsor in a free con- Place use over 6,000 diapers each month. Dia-
shop Harmony Society, will host two perform- cert beginning at 2 p.m. in the Evergreen Retire- pers are not food stamp eligible and are expen-
ances at historic Cheney Hall, 177 Hartford ment Community auditorium, 900 Hemlock sive. If you can donate, sent to: My Sisters’
Road, Manchester. Joining the show will be QUO- Avenue, SW. Paniyeva has performed interna- Place, 102 Pliny St. Hartford, CT 06120.
RUM, current gold-medal champions of the Bar- tionally and is the winner of the Cargill Founda- Info,860-895-6629.
bershop Harmony Society will be on hand as will tion Prize at the 2014 Scottish International ***
THE CLEMENTONES, current International Cham- Piano Competition and was the grand prize at INTERVAL HOUSE provides a variety of services
pions of the Next Generation quartet division the Metropolitan International Piano Competi- for victims of domestic violence, advocacy, adult
coming to Manchester from Denmark. Two well- tion and winneer of the American Prize in 2021. and child support and info on legal rights. 860-
known regional quartets will also appear - VOCE A graduate of the Donetsk Music Academy in 527-0550.You can also read
