This week, the City of New Haven commemorates the upcoming holiday of Columbus Day with numerous events across the city. Each year, we celebrate Columbus Day to recognize the arrival of Christopher Columbus on October 12th, 1492. Columbus Day in New Haven is a day to recall our city’s rich history. On Columbus Day, we also pay homage to the Italian-American citizens of the United States; in particular, we celebrate the Italian-American residents of New Haven who contribute to the cultural, social, historical, and economic vibrancy of our city.

Swearing in of New Assistant Chief Gillespie

Today. at 4 p.m. at 1 Union Ave., I look forward to swearing in the New Haven Police Department’s new Assistant Chief, Kenneth Gillespie. Gillespie has served in Pomona, California for over thirty years. As Assistant Chief, Gillespie will oversee operations. Gillespie’s extensive experience working in the fifth largest city in L.A. County prepares him well for the new position. The City of New Haven congratulates Gillespie and wishes him the best of luck in his new position.

Mayor’s Night In

This Tuesday I will be holding another “Mayor’s Night In,” a night for you to come to me with questions and concerns about you, your families, and our city. This Tuesday, the evening will focus on homeownership in today’s economic climate. We will discuss necessary steps for first-time homebuyers and offer advice on energy efficiency, managing home expenses, and preventing foreclosure. From 5pm to 7pm local banks, businesses, agencies, and community organizations will offer information on these topics; from 6pm to 7pm, there will be two free workshops designed to provide you with the necessary tools to prevent foreclosure and maintain the stability of your home and finances. We strongly encourage all residents to attend the event which will take place from 5pm to 7pm in the 1st floor atrium at 165 Church Street.

Bike to Work Friday, Oct. 10 from 7:30-9:30 a.m.

Join the City’s cycling community outside New Haven City Hall, Church Street across from the Green or inside City Hall if it’s cold! Free breakfast will be brought to you by Koffee on Orange and members of Elm City Cycling. This is a great opportunity to pick up free helpful information and bike accessories as well as to chat with fellow cyclists about best commuting routes. At this event you can also learn about efforts to make New Haven more bike-friendly. For additional information please e-mail: bikenewhaven@gmail.com or visit www.elmcitycycling.org.

New Class of Democracy School Starts this Week

Democracy School’s Fall Semester Kicks-off this Tuesday with 30 energetic new students. Democracy School is a 6-week program where participants learn the ins and outs of City government directly from decision-makers. All six weekly Democracy School sessions are intended to provide participating New Haven residents with information about their government and to open the lines of communication between City officials and the community. With the training they receive at Democracy School, graduates have the potential of becoming community leaders who help to spark constructive change throughout New Haven. All seats for this semester are full but keep an eye out for registration opportunities for the Spring class.

I hope you have a happy and healthy week!

Very truly yours,

John DeStefano, Jr.

Mayor