CT pulse (June 2024)

FEEL THE PULSE TAKE A BREATH,

Oxygen is life’s sustaining element. It is the lifeblood that flows through our bodies, propelling us forward. The amazing team at CT transit is the air we breathe. You make a difference in transforming our organization from good to great. Where would we be without a heartbeat?

CT pulse is not just a magazine; it’s a breath of fresh air that infuses new life into our interactions and connections. That is why our first quarterly issue has a lush green cover, symbolizing rebirth and vitality. Both are key elements in the positive changes we are making together.

Led by our forward-thinking General Manager, Thomas E. Stringer Jr., the organization is undergoing a rejuvenation. His leadership is steering us towards a brighter future.

Can you feel the transformation and the positive changes we are making together?

Settle in, take a breath, and read about our incredible work.

Vanessa P. Brooks Viber-in-Chief

TOM TALKS

Dear Team,

I am delighted to announce the launch of our first edition of CT pulse, a magazine dedicated to keeping our public transportation agency community informed, engaged, and inspired.

CT pulse is a testament to our talented team members’ hard work, dedication, and creativity. As the General Manager, I am immensely proud of the collaborative effort and commitment that went into bringing this vision to life.

I extend my heartfelt congratulations and gratitude to each and every one of you who contributed to making CT pulse a reality. Your passion, expertise, and unwavering dedication shine through in every article, design element, and initiative featured in this edition.

As we embark on this exciting journey with CT pulse, I am confident that this publication will serve as a valuable resource and a source of inspiration, reflecting the incredible talent and spirit that define our public transportation agency.

Thank you for your ongoing commitment to excellence and for driving our agency’s success. Together, we will continue to drive positive change, innovation, and excellence in public transportation for the communities we serve.

Sincerely,

Thomas E. Stringer Jr. General Manager

HONOR FLIGHT SOARS WITH CT transit

The time is 6:45 a.m.

Fifteen minutes before the first veterans arrive at Windsor Locks High School, crowds gather. Groups of Honor Flight volunteers are huddled about on a chilly Saturday morning with smiles, eagerly anticipating the day. At the entrance to the parking lot, a massive American flag waves from the ladder of a fire engine, welcoming all. Emergency vehicles line up behind a parade of Patriot Guard motorcyclists, vests, and jackets adorned with patriotic red, white, and blue patches. A custom Honor Flight branded tent is set up prominently with T-shirts and promotional items for each veteran. Every sight is calculated to ensure our veterans feel welcomed and appreciated.

“From the minute they check-in to the minute they return on CT transit buses to go home, it is a day of honor. Everybody on our team, and our team in Baltimore, and everybody involved in supporting the guests of honor – is pulling the rope in the same direction,” explains Dan Sparks, Honor Flight President. “This is to honor the folks who served and sacrificed and never got the applause or the welcome home they deserved when they returned from duty.”

Honor Flight Connecticut’s mission is to honor veterans by transporting them to Washington, DC, to visit and reflect at the memorials of their brothers and sisters-inarms. This chapter in CT is just one of 131 Honor Flight Hubs throughout 45 states sharing that cause.

“We know they will enjoy the trip, but it’s more than a trip. It’s all the people in between,” says Amy Casey, Veterans Coordinator for Honor Flight. Between the volunteer organizers at Honor Flight, including Amy Casey and Dan Sparks, families and friends of veterans, and donations from supporters like Bradley International Airport, CT transit, and many more — it takes a village to bring this vision to life.

When CT transit was first contacted five years ago to take part in CT’s inaugural Honor Flight, there was no hesitation.

“IT’S MORE THAN A TRIP, IT’S ALL THE PEOPLE IN BETWEEN”

Buses were provided, however many as needed, to ensure our veterans were safely and promptly escorted to the airport—all at no cost. As Blendi Nako, Superintendent of Transportation at CT transit, puts it: “We respect our veterans; we make it happen. It’s an honor to donate. We don’t even have to think about it.”

EXPERIENCE IT YOURSELF

Amy Casey, Honor Flight Veterans Coordinator

“IT’S ALL ABOUT OTHERS; IT’S ABOUT GIVING BACK AND RECOGNIZING THESE VETERANS’ SACRIFICES”

Dan Sparks, Honor Flight President

Dan Sparks, Honor Flight President, adds, “Whatever we ask for. Whenever. Whatever. Admir Shurdho (Transportation Supervisor), Blendi Nako, D. Brown (Transportation Supervisor), and the whole team are there, ready, willing, and able. We are tremendously grateful for the partnership and support CT transit provides for us. We don’t overlook or take for granted those who took a leap of faith to support us and put trust in us that we’d get this charity off the ground.”

Back in the Windsor Locks High School parking lot, as our Veterans and volunteers boarded three jam-packed CT transit buses on their way to the airport, they knew they were in good hands. They had no expectations of fanfare or of the joys to come.

But when those buses arrived at Bradley International Airport, and the blue doors swung open, veterans were met with a hero’s welcome. Applause and praise erupted from the tremendous gathering of friends, families, and veteran support organizations standing by Veterans passed an array of signs reading inspirational messages like “Thank You for Your Service to Our Nation” and “We Love Our Vets!” on their way to the kick-off ceremony. Onlookers might have assumed rockstars stepped off those buses — and they wouldn’t have been far off from the look of it.

“It’s all about others; it’s about giving back and recognizing these veterans’ sacrifices. We look at it like this is our honor; it’s our responsibility to give back,” said Gregg Barratt, State Captain of the Patriot Guard Riders who helped lead the airport procession. A message that was heard loud and clear from veterans in attendance.

Veteran Mindo Rebiro on the emotion he felt first thing in the morning, “You can’t describe it. It’s right here, in the heart.” Vietnam veterans and good friends Ralph Tobey and Lenny Hunter, surrounded by their families and loved ones shared, “It feels great to be here, to be recognized,” recalled Hunter.

Veteran Mindo Rebiro and Trish Tharas

Veterans Ralph Tobey & Lenny Hunter surrounded by loved ones

“WE’VE MADE IT OUR BUSINESS TO HONOR THESE VETERANS WHO DESERVE SO MUCH BUT ASK FOR SO LITTLE”

Dan Sparks, Honor Flight President

“Yeah, we’ve been looking forward to it for almost a year,” responded Tobey. On the initial bus ride to the airport, one veteran of the Air Force, Mel Thorne, summed it up nicely, “A lot of us (especially those who served in Vietnam) got out of the service and came home to… Not a nice atmosphere. It’s nice to be appreciated.”

After an emotionally charged day experiencing the Changing of the Guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Arlington National Cemetery, touring monuments saluting our soldiers and veterans, a complimentary dinner at Mission BBQ, after an afternoon of tears, joys, and more — word gets out that their flight home will be delayed. Arrival home to Connecticut is now scheduled for 12:30 a.m. the following morning…

But that didn’t stop our volunteers in CT from rolling out the proverbial red carpet and providing our veterans with VIP treatment. Bagpipes welcomed our heroes’ home; more cheering and supportive crowds gathered in the main terminal. Tears flowed freely down the once stoic faces of our veterans as a result. CT transit buses waited patiently to transport them back to their cars. The Connecticut State Police shut down traffic, and the Patriot Guard again led the procession back to the Windsor Locks High School. Nobody leaves until the final veterans are safely in their cars and on the road back.

“We’ve made it our business to honor these veterans who deserve so much but ask for so little,” Honor Flight President Dan Sparks.

For Honor Flight, it takes the team countless hours and months of planning to make up for, in some small part, a lifetime of missed opportunities culturally. If their goal was to make sure these guests of honor felt loved and appreciated for their sacrifice and service to our country, for even just one day, then mission accomplished.

REMEMBERING BILL WEILER

For 30 years at CT transit, the name Bill Weiler meant “family.”

Whether it was in his job description or not, he was the type of guy to take you under his wing and show you the ropes. If someone had a problem at home or at work, Bill’s door was always open. He was always ready to listen. Quick to make you laugh, quick to make you feel seen, heard, and safe at work.

“He was truly one of us,” explains Mike Volpe, Superintendent of Maintenance at CT transit. Mike and Bill would pass each other between shifts, Mike on his way out, Bill on his way in. Every night, they would stop and chat about the job, about their families, about everything in between. “We all have somebody on our shift that we lean on, for work or personal reasons. We all have that one person we lean on as a voice of reason,” continues Volpe. For many, that was Bill.

Alex Soto, 2nd Shift Technician at CT transit, considers himself one of the fortunate ones.

“You look for mentors to try and help you, give you advice. That’s what Billy was to me. I viewed him more as a close friend of mine. Nothing was off the books. It was an amazing feeling to come to work and feel good about coming to work,” conveys Soto.

Bill was a storyteller.

He would share stories of his years of experience in transportation with those around him. Eager to share his wisdom and knowledge. He would tell hilarious stories about his own personal life or stories of riding bikes. Bill and members of the 2nd shift crew even plan a yearly ride to Laconia, New Hampshire for Bike Week.

What made Bill so beloved? What made those around him pull into his orbit?

“He was honest, trustworthy,” Soto continues, “Everyone here will tell you the same thing. It doesn’t matter who it is… I can still hear him walking through the doors sometimes and yelling, ‘Hey! Are you guys making coffee? Are you ordering food? What time are we ordering food?’”

“You’ll never find a group as close as us. We took care of each other. It was easy. It was the easiest thing in the world. If anyone needed something, we were there.”

A culture of support that Bill was instrumental in creating. When Soto would call out sick, Bill would call as soon he heard, checking in on him and making sure he was okay. Bill would offer any help or support necessary to make his friends feel better. At lunch time, sometimes Soto would joke with Bill about not eating, and Bill would exclaim, “What do you mean you’re not eating today?”

Bill was whatever you needed him to be. A father-figure, a big brother, a therapist, whatever the role called for the point is, he was there.

“He would help anybody at any time,” describes Volpe. “If one of us needed something, he would stop what he was doing and help. We look out for each other and try to help each other, and Billy was a huge part of that,” describes Soto.

Bill’s legacy lives on at CT transit. Soto would often joke that, “In 15 years, we’re going to be telling his stories to new people.”

What may be Bill’s real lasting legacy, however, besides the friendships and the stories, is the culture of care that he helped sustain. If you talk to someone who knew Bill at CT transit for only five seconds, that’s the message that jumps off the page.

“I don’t think he realized how inspiring he was,” Soto shares his closing thoughts on Bill. “This was his safe space. He felt a sense of purpose, being here with us, spending the night with us, having coffee…

I hold him with me all the time.”

HOW CAN YOU EASILY BLOCK STRESS?

Wisdom for the Road Ahead

From A Retired Operator

OPERATOR SPOTLIGHT

How can you easily block stress? Almost every working day, when everything is going well, and you are doing your job to the best of your ability, situations arise that are beyond your control. We cannot control everything, especially situations that cause resentment and stress.

After you release the gas pedal, the bus slows down. You, too, can slow down and decrease any negative energy you may be feeling. In other words, redirect your stress by helping others. I’ve used this strategy for years at CT transit

Allow me to reveal my “secret recipe” to YOU. I convert my stress to kindness. Bus operators encounter stressful scenarios by the minute, but it’s up to you to find the positive way out. For example, a person is trying to exit a bank parking lot, but oncoming traffic won’t yield; a rider is not strong enough to secure their bicycle on the bus rack; a passenger who has difficulty walking could benefit from exiting at a safer or exact location along the route.

There are many other possible situations, too many to list. You don’t have to be STRESSED in these situations. Instead, pause and let the car out of the bank parking lot; help the passenger put her bicycle on the rack; and find kindness in your heart and drop off the passenger who has difficulty walking at a preferred stop.

As a result, instead of stress, YOU will receive HAPPINESS!

Submitted by Mikhail Vexler, Operator 1609

Mikhail Vexler Retired in September (2023)

HERO ON WHEELS

What’s the cost of one ride? Operator Bucknor was asked that question when a young girl approached her door.

It was a day just like any other as Operator Bucknor drove her regular route from Farmington to busy downtown Hartford. Fares came and went, and it seemed like the day would end just as it began, without incident.

That is, until fate intervened, and one young customer stood at her door. “When I first pulled up, she looked scared. She had a blanket and a backpack, and it was raining,” shares Operator Bucknor. “The look on her face, she was scared. And she was wet. And it was getting dark.”

Operator Bucknor was faced with a decision. Let this customer board, despite not having money for the ride, or deny her access and leave her behind. Fortunately, it wasn’t a difficult decision to make.

“After I got her on the bus, we started talking and I found out how old she was,” Operator Bucknor said. “She said I’m running away. And when she said those words, that got me. So, I called dispatch.”

Now this story has a happy ending, dispatch contacted local law enforcement and safely reunited this 13-year-old child with her family. A family who’d spent the day frantically searching for her.

What’s the cost of one ride?

Anne Marie Bucknor

Bus Operators face a million decisions every day on and off the road. When customers aren’t just numbers on a sheet but real people boarding our buses, in our community – that’s when we’re at our best. When we pay attention to our customers and authentically care about them, heroes like Operator Ann Marie Bucknor emerge.

In a bustling city like Hartford, Connecticut, time is of the essence, and the job of a professional Bus Operator goes beyond simply driving a route. At CT transit, we believe that our operators have a much more significant responsibility. They are our ambassadors, attentive and compassionate men and women committed to getting our customers to their destination safely, efficiently, and courteously.

Ann Marie Bucknor was crucial in reuniting a distressed teenager with her family by going above and beyond her duties. This act of empathy also exemplified the priceless role of a Bus Operator as a pillar of the community. Her prompt and caring response serves as a powerful reminder of the profound impact that paying attention and showing empathy can have in ensuring the well-being of our customers and fostering a sense of trust and security within our public transit system.

“It goes to show that the person operating the bus is not just a driver, but a true professional who takes safety and security to the utmost level,” said Thomas Stringer Jr., General Manager of CT transit. “Who knows what would’ve happened or what could’ve happened if our operator didn’t take the extra step and go above and beyond to make sure that this individual was well taken care of.”

HEAR IT IN HER OWN WORDS

Anne Marie Bucknor and Thomas E. Stringer Jr.

CT transit & UCONN PARTNER TO GUIDE THE NEXT GENERATION OF TRANSIT LEADERS

In collaboration with the University of Connecticut School of Business and Professor Jennifer Eigo, Associate Director of UConn’s Digital Frontiers Initiative, CT transit is proud to mentor graduate students on their final Capstone Projects and spotlight the next generation of tech talent!

Through months of hard work and determination, six talented teams of graduate students worked closely with our friends Yogesh Dubey, Performance Manager, and Cliff Bond, Manager of Operations and Analytics, to translate complex public transportation data into user-friendly dashboards that anyone could understand, regardless of background or expertise. Our goal is to use these dashboards internally to improve daily business operations. Thank you both for your tremendous work on this project!

“THE FUTURE OF TRANSIT IS IN GOOD HANDS”

Thomas E. Stringer Jr., General Manager of CT transit

Through this project we learned that most of the graduate students had never ridden public transportation before! In turn, our fantastic teams provided information sessions on how public transit operates, where each student came to appreciate and better understand our work, and the vital role transit plays in driving our communities.

Four months of research, hours of meetings, and Zoom chats – all culminating in a final presentation by these students in front of their peers, CT transit leadership, the Connecticut Department of Transportation, and local sponsors of the Capstone project. Not only did these students succeed, they thrived!

Among the presentations by students were dashboards investigating “door open dwell time,” or how long a bus took at each stop with the door open, waiting for passengers to board. CT transit can use this report to suggest potential procedure adjustments and improve route efficiency.

Another presentation monitored deviations of “On Time Performance” (OTP) for operators daily, weekly, and monthly. Information that is also critical in improving route efficiency and helping operators better understand workflow.

“The future of transit is in good hands with the emergence of these brilliant and capable innovators in public transit. We are proud to partner with the UConn School of Business and offer these students hands-on, real-world experiences that can truly make an impact, not just in their own lives, but in the communities we serve,” said Thomas Stringer Jr., General Manager of CT transit

Thank you again to everyone who played a role in forging this innovative partnership with Connecticut’s flagship university in UConn. Starting with Justin Cayless, Chief Transit Officer of New Orleans Regional Transit Authority, through our hardworking teams on campus – our Ops, Ops Technology, Planning, External Affairs and Outreach teams for their continued support, participation, and commitment to the next generation of transit leaders.

UConn Prof Jennifer Eigo (fourth from the right) with General Manager Thomas Stringer, Jr. (fifth from the right) and CT transit leadership team members.

Below: Graduate students at the final Capstone Project Presentation

PUBLIC BACKED SERVICE EXPANSIONS NOW UNDERWAY!

When the public talks, CT transit listens.

In March of this year, the Connecticut Department of Transportation implemented new bus routes, now serving communities in New Britain, Berlin, Meriden, Plainville, Southington, and Stamford. These new bus routes will bolster connectivity and amplify coverage throughout central Connecticut.

“Public transit is more than just a mode of transportation; it is a lifeline that connects individuals to career opportunities, businesses to customers, and communities to growth,” said General Manager of CT transit, Thomas E. Stringer Jr. “A robust public transportation system is essential for driving economic impact and supporting local businesses.”

But wait, there’s more!

This service expansion is just the beginning of a series of upcoming expansions, totaling more than $18 million, proposed by Governor Ned Lamont and supported by local legislature. These new routes will provide greater access to a broader range of employment centers and career opportunities across the region, ultimately enhancing residents’ career prospects and improving their quality of life.

“This major bus service expansion is the latest effort to connect customers with critical jobs, housing, and services while expanding opportunities for Transit Oriented Development (TOD)—allowing people to live and commute with ease,” said Connecticut Department of Transportation Deputy Commissioner Karen Kitsis. “CTDOT is grateful for the support of Governor Ned Lamont and the Connecticut General Assembly, which responded to customer needs by investing in the expansion of our transit system.”

These new routes were, in part, discovered through feedback from community members, frontline transit workers, and key government officials.

Public Service by the Numbers

4,300 community members surveyed online

36 community events across Connecticut

29 interviews with transit providers, councils of government, and transit district reps

10 customer focus groups

CTDOT’s Customer Experience (CX) Action Plan team gathered this wealth of responses. Based on insights from those we serve, they lead the initiative to develop public transportation innovations throughout the state. This energized team will continue responding to the needs of the people—the customers and supporters of public transit—and propose new paths forward.

“As Connecticut works to be a leader in delivering major new transit investments, including CT fastrak and CTrail Hartford Line, we recognize the support and input of our transit providers and customers across Connecticut,” said Connecticut Department of Transportation Public Transportation Bureau Chief Benjamin Limmer. “We look forward to launching new transportation services in communities across Connecticut in the months ahead.”

L to R: Samaia Hernandez, Alicia Leite, Lt. Gov. Susan Bysiewicz, Lisa Rivers, and Karen Kitsis.

of the power of perseverance, compassion, and the relentless pursuit of justice. Dr. King’s unwavering commitment to equality and his fearless advocacy for civil rights continue to inspire us all.

As we honor Dr. King’s birthday, let us reflect on his profound influence on public transportation. Dr. King understood transportation’s vital role in connecting communities and providing access to opportunities. His pivotal leadership during the Montgomery Bus Boycott demonstrated the transformative power of collective action and peaceful protest, igniting a movement that would forever change the landscape of public transportation and the fight for equality.

MAY

HIS LEGACY INSPIRE US TO CREATE POSITIVE CHANGE IN OUR COMMUNITIES AND BEYOND

In the spirit of Dr. King’s enduring legacy, we invite you to share in the celebration by distributing the keepsake birthday cards we have prepared for all employees. The commemorative keepsake cards symbolize our collective commitment to upholding Dr. King’s vision of a world where everyone is valued and treated with dignity. Let us carry Dr. King’s message of hope, unity, and justice in our hearts as we continue to work towards creating a more inclusive and equitable society. Together, we can honor his memory by striving to build a world where every person has the opportunity to thrive and where the principles of equality and justice guide our actions.

Happy Birthday, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. May his legacy inspire us to create positive change in our communities and beyond.

TRANSIT EQUITY DAY

We proudly reserve a seat on our buses for Rosa Parks on #TransitEquityDay!

Each year on February 4, transit agencies around the country remember and honor Rosa Parks on her birthday.

Public transportation played an essential role in the Civil Rights Movement, being the catalyst for Parks’ influential bravery and perseverance.

On February 4, CT transit reserves a seat on our buses in honor of Rosa Parks to reflect and spread the message of equality for all.

Thank you for riding with us and helping to support our mission to strengthen communities, the economy and quality of life for Connecticut.

— Providing safe, reliable, sustainable, and affordable transit that is accessible to all, regardless of income, national origin, race, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, religion, or ability.

— Creating sustainable and safe careers for our transit workers with fair wages, and benefits.

— Continuing to improve our current systems and operations to meet the needs of our Connecticut community members.

WHAT ARE WE DOING TO SUPPORT TRANSIT EQUITY DAY? WHAT CAN YOU DO?

— Ride CT transit. Utilizing your local transit agency supports its mission to provide safe, affordable, accessible, and equitable transportation for all.

— Learn more about the history between equality and transportation.

— Educate others by sharing important information.

— Reflect on what Transit Equality Day means to you, your community, and to those who fought for civil rights alongside Rosa Parks.

— Treat people with respect and kindness.

THE WOMEN WHO DRIVE US

CT transit developed a Women’s History Month Campaign that focused on employee engagement and recognition across all three divisions. The multimedia campaign, “The Women Who Drive Us: Empowering Diversity & Fueling Progress,” unfolded through the month of March, seamlessly integrating with International Women’s Day on March 8, 2024.

The campaign featured posters displayed across the organization, showcasing some of the incredible women that drive CT transit forward. The women highlighted expressed gratitude and a sense of pride as their peers shared positive affirmations.

We utilized social media to amplify the message of recognition of the women of CT transit, sharing eye-catching images complete with our campaign’s headline. Social media posts also included interactive “Test your Women’s History Month knowledge” quizzes and #ThrowbackThursday posts sharing the stories of influential women throughout history.

As an important piece of our Women’s History Month campaign, we created a special series featuring posts about individual women at CT transit. We invited select women from Stamford, New Haven, and Hartford to join our Women’s History Month committee. The committee was responsible for nominating women across the organization who embodied the core values of CT transit

Guided by a set of categories and questions to help select the nominees, each committee member recommended a minimum of one outstanding woman to feature in a unique story on social media.

Once nominees were selected, the committee met to discuss each woman and unanimously agree on their participation in the campaign. Each nominated woman received an email inviting them to share their story and their favorite photos of themselves to be used on social media in celebration of their hard work, character, and their career at CT transit.

Our social media posts were met with incredible appreciation and pride as we spotlighted the remarkable Women Who Drive Us on magazine cover-style designs. With an outpouring of admiration and recognition from friends, family, and colleagues, the campaign’s social media presence successfully captured the essence of Women’s History Month.

There are remarkable women in leadership at CT transit, and we proudly celebrate their stories during Women’s History Month.

Women Drive the who us

The women of CTtransit Empower Diversity & Fuel Progress every day in their work. We are proud to celebrate Women’s History Month with our group of incredible women!

MARCH IS

WOMEN’S HISTORY MONTH

WILSON LIBRARY COMMUNITY HELPERS STORYTIME

Whether on the road or in the library, you are in great hands with CT transit professional operators!

Staff members and our two most senior operators from the New Haven division, Falaria Brown and Kelven Howard, attended a Community Helpers Storytime at the Wilson Public Library in New Haven.

Multiple families with children were in attendance as we read children’s books about public transit. We brought promotional items and Steer Your Career collateral to connect with parents in attendance who may be potential job seekers.

Howard read “Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus” by the popular children’s book author Mo Willems. Brown read from “Community Helpers: Bus Drivers,” which describes the work bus drivers do to keep our community moving.

EXPERIENCE IT YOURSELF

L to R: Falaria Brown #452, Kelven Howard #418

NATIONAL TRANSIT EMPLOYEE APPRECIATION DAY

CT transit believes that its staff is the heartbeat of the organization.

That’s why, to celebrate the American Public Transportation Association’s National Transit Employee Appreciation Day, CT transit celebrated and uplifted their team for an entire week, believing one day in March is not enough to express the appreciation that this team deserves. CT transit is made up of three divisions throughout the state of Connecticut: Hartford, New Haven, and Stamford. These locations are staffed by incredible, dedicated, experienced transportation professionals who work daily to keep Connecticut’s communities moving efficiently. The question was, how can one organization shine the spotlight back on its employees and make them feel seen?

A National Transit Employee Appreciation Week campaign was implemented.

Team members from all departments worked together to make this celebration possible. The first step was preparing a gift for all employees to signify our togetherness and hard work. Each employee received a CT transit branded insulated lunch cooler with a thoughtfully curated water bottle, a snack, and a specially designed card created by the Marketing team to express gratitude and recognition from leadership.

National Transit Employee Appreciation Week started bright and early at 4 a.m. in the Hartford division. CT transit employees work around the clock to keep their communities moving, and it is essential that everyone feels seen and appreciated—regardless of when their shift begins. Staff members were greeted by leadership and colleagues, as well as special guests from the Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT), Transit Manager Greg Tower, and Bureau Chief of Public Transportation Benjamin T. Limmer.

Throughout the CT transit office, banners were on display to show the true heartbeat of the organization. The people doing the work each day, whether behind the wheel or behind the scenes, are all the driving force behind the work CT transit accomplishes for Connecticut’s communities.

The banners fostered a feeling of recognition, appreciation, and pride as team members saw themselves and one another.

As National Transit Employee Appreciation Week pressed on, so did the exciting events. The CTDOT Deputy Commissioner of Transportation Karen Kitsis and Administrator of Transit and Ridesharing Lisa Rivers visited New Haven to share appreciation and thank team members for their contributions to the organization. The CTDOT team rolled up their sleeves and helped distribute lunch coolers, greeted operators and staff members with smiles, and shared conversation over coffee and snacks.

To finish the week strong in the Stamford division, members of the leadership team and staff from several departments came together to spread appreciation and positive energy throughout the day. With words of recognition from department leaders, snacks, hot coffee to enjoy, and decorations and gifts to show pride in the CT transit brand, National Transit Employee Appreciation Week was a time to celebrate the collaborative efforts that keep CT transit

moving each day. A heartfelt video message from General Manager Thomas Stringer Jr. was also playing on TV screens throughout the three divisions to share a message of acknowledgment and teamwork continuously. National Transit Employee Appreciation Week at CT transit reminded everyone that they are valued and appreciated. Each employee has a unique skill set that makes the team complete, and their contributions to the organization’s mission are vital.

NATIONAL TRANSIT EMPLOYEE APPRECIATION DAY

heartbeat You are the of CTtransit

Photo 2 | R: CTDOT Bureau Chief of Public Transportation Benjamin T. Limmer & CTDOT Transit Manager Gregory Tower

Photo 1 | L to R: Mary Wolfe, Jamal Clark 3178, and Nancy Lugo-Parks #3060 / Packaging

EDUCATE, DON’T ESCALATE

CT transit, “Educate, Don’t Escalate” safety campaign aims to prioritize operator safety through de-escalation techniques, support from leadership, and appreciation for staff to boost morale.

The safety and wellness of CT transit, Bus Operators is crucial, and with a rise in challenging situations on buses, the Safety team responded with an internal campaign to steer operators to make wise decisions in moments of stress.

The Safety team cannot be present when incidents that put Operators’ safety at risk occur on buses. That is why Marketing and Safety collaborated to develop the “Educate, Don’t Escalate” campaign to help avoid confrontations with customers.

Using Safety Blitz events to connect with operators, the teams created a series of materials to support the message of educating customers on expectations and policies while staying alert to avoid escalating the situation into a confrontation.

The first campaign element of the “Educate, Don’t Escalate” campaign is a small pocket-sized card for Bus Operators to keep with them on the job. Inside the card are 5 de-escalation techniques, and the back has an encouraging message of appreciation and safety. The card has a calming color palette and small images to convey a thoughtful visual message.

L to R: Robert Benton #739, Andrea Moore #785, Thaddeus Harris #587, Falaria Brown #452, Kelven Howard #418

The next element created are pinned buttons for the entire organization—not just operators. These buttons signify messages that go a step further in the “Educate, Don’t Escalate” campaign. Everyone can benefit from a unified reminder about kindness and respect.

During the Safety Blitz, which starts at 4 a.m. for the first pull-out, team members from all departments welcome operators on-site as they begin their day. At this event, operators and staff are encouraged to sign a pledge board committing to join the effort to de-escalate potentially unsafe situations on buses.

Finally, all buses will be equipped with vinyl adhesives that act as a reminder to remain calm, remain seated, and not match any aggressive behavior that a Bus Operator may encounter. These adhesive signs are meant to be difficult to ignore and simple in messaging to help operators rationalize in a heated situation.

The goal is that the “Educate, Don’t Escalate” campaign along with regular Safety Blitz events will continue to develop a culture that prioritizes safety and wellness for all employees and consistent internal

Erick Saloman

HEROES AND HELPERS STUFF-A-BUS TOY DRIVE

The “Heroes and Helpers Stuff-a-Bus” Toy Drive in 2023 was an inspiring collaboration between RATP Dev USA staff, the Connecticut Department of Transportation, and the CT State Police-Troop H. This partnership also included the participation of community partners Planet Fitness and Lego, who all joined hands to bring smiles and joy to children who were spending their holidays in the hospital.

The RATP Dev USA team decorated and filled a holiday bus with generously donated toys, which overflowed with the warmth of our community’s collective generosity.

From the State Capitol to the Governor and Lt. Governor of Connecticut, everyone stopped their busy schedules to come together and help stuff the holiday bus with exciting toys and games for the children. The bus full of goodies was destined for the Connecticut Children’s Medical Center (CCMC), where it will bring joy and brighten the spirits of young patients and their families during the holiday season.

It was an honor for the RATP Dev USA staff and community organizations to collaborate and

CONGRATULATIONS YOGESH DUBEY

Our friend and Operations Manager, Yogesh Dubey, just earned his second masters degree — a M.S. in Project Management from the University of Southern California.

Through grit and determination and countless hours of study and preparation, Yogesh was able to earn this traditionally two year degree — all in one years time.

This process allowed Yogesh to learn from industry leaders in project management, cost estimation and forecasting, risk management, and so much more!

“This was an experience filled adventure, which not only gave me the insight many different industries, but also gave me the ability to enhance my journey in public transportation,” says Yogesh Dubey.

If you see him in the halls or riding the bus, please share your love and let him know how proud we are!

Yogesh Dubey

GONE FISHIN’ HAPPY RETIREMENT!

Wayne Aronson Bus Operator

Sarah Beaulieu Finance Manager

Roger Boissonneault Technician

Ralph Buccitti Bus Operator

Michael Burton Bus Operator

Lynda A. Busto Transportation Supervisor

Walter Busto Transportation Supervisor

Robert Carney Maintenance Support Asst

Maria Carrero Bus Operator

Manuel A. Castro Bus Operator

Marc A. Clancy Bus Operator

Adolfo L. Correa Bus Operator

Linford L. Dent Bus Operator

William Dicioccio Technician

Gabriel Diosa Bus Operator

Lavderim Doko Bus Operator

Michael W. Dugan Bus Operator

Luis Estremera Bus Operator

Wilson Feliciano Technician

Voleta L. Ferguson Customer Relations Specialist

Michael P. Foley Bus Operator

Maria Harris Cust. Service Supervisor

Mavis Jones Cust. Service Rep

Stanislav Kostka Superintendent of Maintenance

Joe Kucharski Bus Operator

Lawrence A. Langello Bus Operator

Searle Mabery Bus Operator

Michael J., Jr. Mancini Superintendent of Maintenance

Alojzy Martinczak Bus Operator

Rosa Martinez Superintendent of Safety & Training

Louis Mazzone Technician

Delores Mitchell Bus Operator

Isle Morales Bus Operator

Patrick Morrison Fueler/Steam Cleaner

William Murphy Lead Traffic Specialist

Giuseppe Panajia Bus Operator

Rocco M. Perugini Bus Operator

Dorothy Porter Customer Service Rep

Robbie Potter Customer Service Rep

Peter D. Querfeld Maintenance Supervisor

Walcott Richardson Bus Operator

Miguel A. Rodriguez Bus Operator

Gerald, Sr. Smith Bus Operator

Robert Sunderhauf Technician

Marek Szmolda Bus Operator

Robert H. Taylor Bus Operator

John M. Vallarelli Technician

Mikhail Vexler Bus Operator

Tonnette Williams Bus Operator WE ARE THANKFUL FOR ALL YOU HAVE DONE!

APRIL SAFETY WINNERS CONGRATULATIONS

NEW HAVEN HARTFORD STAMFORD

Noureddine Dahbi

Anthony Garofalo

Christopher Perchell

Michelle Harris

Shawn O'Donnel

Gary Ross Jr.

Abu Bakarr Lahun

Latisha Johnson

Carmen Montero

Arami Rosario Borrero

Alexander Luciano Pagan

Angel Cruz

Jonathan Witherspoon

Wayne Aronson

Roland Hardwick

Iew Sirisavath

Orrin Wilson

Rosalinda Ortiz

Carlos Ortega

Jaroslaw Krol

Lydia Medina

Terrel Kent

Jennifer Medina

Benjamin Sparks

Javier Rosado

Altin Minga

Charlenee Quinones

Luan Istrefi

Princess Colon

Justin Girard

Ramona Barrett Janik

Clyde White

Ylber Kurti

Rafael Zayas

Altin Beqiraj

Bobby Robinson

Heather Donegan

Abner Franco

Hernan Ayala

Jeanette Maldonado

Veronica Freitas

Imtiaz Joseph

VANESSA BROOKS

Viber-in-Chief / Sr. Director of Marketing, Communications & Public Affairs

Vanessa is a seasoned leader with extensive experience in marketing, communications, and community engagement. She is dedicated to achieving measurable results and has expertise in customer experience management, public affairs, sponsorship development, and performance leadership across multiple disciplines. She is passionate about promoting sustainable transportation solutions and enhancing the overall transit experience for Hartford and surrounding communities. Vanessa spearheads innovative marketing campaigns, formulates comprehensive communication strategies, and cultivates robust relationships with key stakeholders to support CT transit’s mission and vision. Vanessa’s academic background includes a Master of Arts in IndustrialOrganizational Psychology from the Chicago School of Professional Psychology. She is also a proud member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.

Head Vibes Strategist / Multimedia Specialist

Isabelle is a 2020 graduate of the University of Hartford with a Bachelors in Communication with a double emphasis in Advertising & PR and Media Strategies. She began her professional journey working for a nonprofit organization specializing in paratransit, vanpools, and commuter benefits programs. Her career move to CT transit shifted her focus from vans to buses. In her work as CT transit’s Multimedia Specialist, Isabelle is responsible for digital communications through our social media platforms and website. Isabelle loves writing, crocheting, exploring nature throughout Connecticut, coffee, and animals.

ISABELLE BROWN MICHAEL McKIERNAN

Art, Graphics & Vibes / Brand & Communications Manager

Michael arrives at CT transit with over ten years of experience in Marketing and Communications. A man of many marketing “hats,” Michael’s photos have been featured in the Hartford Courant and Connecticut Magazine, and his videos have been featured on Broadway.com and Playbill.com. He was the lead designer for the Connecticut Critics Circle Awards two years in a row, and has been recognized by the Greater Hartford Arts Council for his audience-building and brand management expertise. Michael is happily married, has two wonderful kids, and one roomba.

Blue orbs are scattered throughout this magazine, did you spot them all? The first person to correctly ID how many blue orbs are hiding wins a prize. Happy searching! Hint: we do not count any orbs depicted in photos.