Education is a top priority in New Haven. In recent months we’ve received significant attention from national media and policy makers about the amazing things happening in our schools. Following the recent announcement of the Promise scholarship program and Promise Partnership, today, Superintendent of New Haven Public Schools Dr. Reginald Mayo announced the tiering of all New Haven Public Schools. Dr. Mayo also discussed the State of the District focusing on the progress of reform across New Haven Public Schools. Our nationally recognized School Change Initiative is thriving but it is only successful when we all work together. There is a role for everyone in ensuring that our children have the best education possible and in providing the support they need to succeed in school, in college and in life. Join us! For more information on how you can get involved, please visit: www.newhavenschoolchange.org

Boost!

The BOOST! component of New Haven’s School Change Initiative will launch an effort to help children increase their physical activity and make healthy choices. “Get Fit Kids” will be kicked-off on Tuesday, December 14th at 10:00 a.m. at the Barnard School at 170 Derby Avenue. Each participating school will receive “Get Fit Kits” containing materials that support increased physical activity among our children.

New Haven Prepares to Plow through the Winter Season!

At a news conference this Thursday, December 16th at 2:00pm I will join John Prokop, Director of Public Works to discuss New Haven’s preparations to keep our streets clean and safe during this winter’s snow fall. We will inspect the City’s snow plow fleet and provide information on what residents should know and do to make this winter’s snow clean-up efforts as smooth as possible. This event will take place at the Department of Public Works on Middletown Avenue.

Green Tip

Check to make sure that your chimney flue is closed when not in use. Warm air from your house can escape, drawing in cold air from outside.

Health Matters Tip

The holiday season is upon us and there are plenty of opportunities to be with friends and family! But don't forget to take time for yourself. Engaging in stress free activities and getting a good night's sleep can go a long way to improving and maintaining your health!

Holiday Season Safety Tip

Burglars look for an easy entry with good escape routes. Don’t openly display your Christmas tree and gifts in the front window so it’s easily visible from the street. It’s too tempting for them to smash the window and grab the wrapped packages.

Cultural Events

Dec. 12. New Haven Chamber Orchestra Concert. Fair Haven School Auditorium. 2pm - 3:45pm. www.newhavenchamberorchestra.org/

Dec. 13. Liberabend: An Evening of Russian Songs. Yale School of Music.

Morse Recital Hall. 8pm. (203) 432-4158

Dec. 14. Ordinary Evening Reading Series. Phillip Lopate and Cynthia Zarin read. Anchor Bar & Restaurant's Mermaid Room. http://ordinaryevening.blogspot.com/

Dec. 15. Yale School of Music presents Lunchtime Chamber Music. 12:30pm.Morse Recital Hall. http://music.yale.edu

Dec. 15. Elm Street Book Group: An American Childhood by Annie Dillard. 6-7pm. www.esbgdec15.eventbrite.com/.

Dec. 16 Listen Here! Short Story Reading Series: Tall Tales. Manjares Fine Pastries, 838 Whalley Avenue. 7-8pm. www.newhavenreview.com/

Dec. 17. Singularity: Music by Joel Harrison Septet 8:30/10p.m. $18/$12. http://firehouse12.com

Dec. 18. Centennial Celebration (1910-2010) at Donald G. Mitchell Library. Centennial Birthday Cake; Airborne Jugglers; Photo Exhibit; more. 1-4pm. 203-946-8117.

Dec. 18. There's Something About Merry by the CGMC. Shubert Theatre. 8pm. $35/$25. www.ctgmc.org.

Dec. 18-19. Free Photos with Santa. Barnes & Noble at Yale. Broadway district. 2-5pm. www.infonewhaven.com/holidays

Dec. 18-19. Saturday Shopping Strolls. Caroling, in-store promotions Chapel and Broadway districts. 2-5pm. www.infonewhaven.com/holidays

Have a happy and healthy week!

Very truly yours,

John DeStefano, Jr.

Mayor

Contact Name: Jessica Mayorga

Contact Email: jmayorga@newhavenct.net

Contact Phone: 203-946-7660

[12/13/2010]