Middletown Veteran Places 2nd In Empire State Building Race

MIDDLETOWN, CT — Here are some highlights from Mayor Gene Nocera's latest newsletter.

Middletown Veteran Places Second In Empire State Building Race

The mayor’s newsletter recognized Middletown veteran Jerry Augustine, who placed second in his age division in the Empire State Building Run-Up on Oct. 6.

The event challenges participants to climb 1,576 steps across 86 flights to reach the building’s observation deck. According to the newsletter, 356 people participated in the race.

Augustine has competed in the event nine times, finishing second five times, third three times and first once in his division.

A Vietnam War combat veteran, Augustine returned to Vietnam in 2023 on a tour organized by the Veterans Breakfast Club. He also was featured in the Veterans of Foreign Wars’ national #StillServing campaign, according to the city.

Augustine owned and operated No Leak Roofing Co. in Middletown for more than four decades and works as an owner-builder at Veterans Garage. He also has competed in running events for 17 years and holds world and American records for his age group on a Concept2 indoor rowing machine, the newsletter said.

Augustine shares his military experiences and his return trip to Vietnam through presentations and other outreach.

Common Council Meeting To Be Staged Remotely

The Middletown Common Council’s meetings scheduled for Monday, Nov. 2, will be held remotely because the council chambers will be used for early voting, according to the newsletter.

Questions to department directors will begin at 6 p.m., followed by the regular meeting at 7 p.m.

Residents can participate through Webex using event number 2330 935 4684 and password Middletown. Those joining by phone can call 408-418-9388 and enter the same event number as the access code.

Phone participants can press *3 to raise their hands.

Curbside Leaf Collection Begins Nov. 16

Middletown’s curbside leaf collection program will begin Monday, Nov. 16, with crews making two rounds throughout the city. Collection is expected to conclude in December.

Residents should have leaves at the curb by the start date and must keep leaf piles out of the roadway.

Those using bags must use brown paper bags. Plastic bags will not be collected, and bags may contain leaves only. Branches, grass clippings, other yard waste and pet waste are prohibited.

Residents can check collection updates and find information about when crews will visit their streets through the city’s leaf collection notice.

Additional information about the mayor’s newsletter and city programs is available through the city website or by calling the Mayor’s Office at 860-638-4801.