LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Being Big Sister is gratifying experience

I am writing in response to the story published Dec. 12 about Nutmeg Big Brothers Big Sisters and the Johnson family. The story beautifully portrayed the power of mentorship in creating lifelong bonds between mentees and mentors.

While the bond Jaleah and I have formed is powerful, it is only the start of what makes my mentoring experience with Johnson family unique. As Jaleah’s mentor, Lovicia’s friend, and Jayden’s stepmentor of sorts, I would like to offer a few additional comments about why the experience of becoming a mentor has been so gratifying.

I think it’s important to note that I was first introduced to Lovicia as the prime example of a Middletown gatekeeper. The gatekeepers of Middletown are community members that build networks of interpersonal trust in order to better connect the people within their community. They are the first people you want to meet when entering a community.

From organizing community events to inviting anyone in for a cup of tea and a chat in her living room, Lovicia is a gatekeeper. Upon being introduced, I knew Lovicia would be a mentor to me. Lovicia has a voice that can both boom and sing.

As Jaleah’s mentor, I now have the opportunity to see Lovicia not only as a gatekeeper, but also as a mom. The relationship Lovicia has with her kids is the most authentic, beautiful, and powerful relationship I have ever witnessed. The deep love that this family shares is contagious.

Consequentially, Jayden and Jaleah are polite, mature, brilliant and absolutely hysterical. I often enter their home to find Jayden helping Jaleah with homework (or vice versa) while Lovicia makes dinner. I am so grateful to have even a taste.

Thank you for the opportunity to share more about this outstanding Middletown family.

Julia Adler, Middletown

Fragilio Performing Arts Center to be dedicated Sat

A dedication concert for the Middletown High School Santo Fragilio Performing Arts Center will take place Saturday at 7 p.m. at 200 LaRosa Lane.

Fragilio, who died in July 2017 at 92, was a former music teacher, Middletown High School band director and arts consultant for the public schools since 1948.

His name will be displayed on the outside and inside of the new arts center, and a portrait of Fragilio, done by naming committee member Mike Eagle, will also be on view.

Banners will be displayed outside the school and on light poles in the parking lot designating the center.

The Middletown Symphonic Band will be one of the main acts at this year’s annual holiday spectacular, and will feature the Middletown High School Music Department and the Connecticut Trombone Christmas Ensemble. An assortment of concert fanfare such as fantasias and medleys will highlight the evening performance, with holiday tunes such as “Joy To The World,” “Deck The Halls,” “Hark The Herald Angels Sing” and other holiday classics.

Admission is $10.

All proceeds will go to the high school music department. Tickets may be purchased at the Middlesex Music Academy on Main Street, at the high school, 200 La Rosa Lane, by sending an email to symphony@mpsct.org, as well as at the door.

Frank LoGiudice, member, Middletown High School Santo Fragilio

Performing Arts Center

City’s holiday decorations are a delight

I would like to thank the city of Middletown, and all those responsible for the beautiful decorations and lights at Union Park/South Green on lower Main Street.

This year is the best yet, and a wonderful sight on my early morning trips into the city.

Barbara C. Smith, Middlefield