Fire Department Extinguishes the Competition

Although the defending champions from the 2015 North Haven Education Foundation’s Adult Spelling Bee, the North Haven Land Trust, and 35 other teams (swarms) did very well at the 2nd annual competition recently, it was a Fire Department swarm bearing the name “Bee Extinguished” that walked away with this year’s trophy.

The team which was sponsored by Arnold’s Jewelers included West Ridge Volunteers, Stephen Irons and Todd Levine, as well as the wife of a Volunteer from West Ridge, Alice Bessonett.

By all accounts, the Adult Spelling Bee was an unqualified success. The next day, the event chairman, Kathy Rocklin, wrote to the Foundation’s board to thank them for their hard work over the past three plus months, “in pulling this all together...for the ability to make changes on the fly...to fill in where ever needed...to always be available to get something done and done to perfection.”

High School Principal Dr. Russell Dallai, one of the co-emcees, wrote that it was “a privilege to be a part of” the event, and added “congratulations on establishing a thriving tradition in the service of students!”

The Foundation’s president, Bernie Pellegrino, thanked the numerous sponsors and donors adding, “When you can successfully plan such an awesome event, raise money to help our kids, and have so much FUN doing it, you know that it was a job well done.”

Gina Falcigno, Assistant to Vice President Donald J. Weinbach at Quinnipiac University’s Development & Alumni Affairs also e-mailed the board, “Congratulations on a spectacular community event last night. On behalf of Quinnipiac University, thank you for the opportunity to participate as a sponsor. Your hard work and tireless efforts are very much appreciated. It was a first class event and a really nice time!”

Pellegrino responded, “Having Quinnipiac as a partner in support of education in our town is such a tremendous asset. Our appreciation for your support exceeds your gratitude for the success of the event. Go Bobcats!” He also reminded everyone that although final accounts for the fundraiser are being prepared, all proceeds will be used to foster excellence in the school district.

PHOTO: (L-R) North Haven High School Principal Russ Dallai congratulated North Haven Fire Chief Paul Januszewski as well as the three members of the adult spelling bee team called BEE EXTINGUISHED, Stephen Irons and Todd Levine (Volunteers from West Ridge), as well as Alice Bessonett, the wife of a West Ridge Volunteer.