CTpulse (Oct-Dec 2024)

CELEBRATING THE SEASON OF GIVING At CTtransit, giving is not a one-time event but a continuous commitment deeply ingrained in our identity. It's not just a part of our brand or our DNA. It's what propels us forward every day.

CTtransit plays a unique role in our community, providing a vital service that connects customers and families.

We enable access to jobs, education, healthcare, and opportunities across Connecticut, fostering community and togetherness.

This holiday season, we are reminded of how transit serves as a vehicle for giving. In this issue, you’ll discover stories highlighting how CTtransit employees embody that spirit.

From the holiday toy drive to spotlighting employees who go the extra mile, to our community volunteer work — we hope these stories inspire you to see the positive impact you can have in your life and on the routes, we travel daily.

As we close another year, let us carry forward the spirit of giving—not just during this season but throughout the months to come. Together, we can create a stronger community, one generous act of kindness at a time.

We are deeply grateful for your role in our journey and for your commitment to our shared values this holiday season.

Stay inspired,

Vanessa P. Brooks, MA Viber-in-Chief

PUERTO RICAN DAY PARADE

HARTFORD, CT

TABLE OF CONTENTS 6

Holiday Toy Drive: Toys for Tots

10

Stamford's #1 Fan

12

CTtransit Answers the Call (Honor Flight)

15

Community Spotlight: CT Stand Down

16

Barry Diggs: Superstar On and Off the Field

18

Edith Wade: Key to the City

20

Shilpi Gupta & Vaishnavi Pandala: Keep Shining

22

Jacquelyn Romprey: CERT-ified For Success

23

Community Spotlight: Jill Larmett

24

CTtransit Pilots Quantum

26

New Haven's Recipe for Thanks

27

Community Spotlight: Bikes on Buses

28

Operator Inclement Weather Safe Driving Tips

29

FTA Officials Visit CTfastrak

30

A Year of Connections

32

Testimonials: Real Voices that Inspire Us

33

Holiday Rewind

42

November Safety Awards

44

Retirees

45

CTpulse Contributors

46

Meet the Marketing Team

Photo 1 | Hartford Operator Graduation (October 25, 2024) Photo 2 | New Haven Operator Graduation (November 1, 2024) Photo 3 | Stamford Operator Graduation (November 22, 2024)

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1.

TOM TALKS Dear Team, 'Twas the season of giving, and all through CT, Our team was busy spreading goodwill and glee.

From buses to kindness, we answered the call, Making this year the most meaningful of all.

2.

Five buses for veterans, to D.C. they rode, To honor their service, our pride overflowed.

In Stamford, balloons soared high in the air, With our buses shuttling volunteers with care.

A new Quantum feature, we’re piloting, too, Making transit more accessible for customers, it’s true!

And inside our division, the spirit took flight, With potlucks and tips for safe wintery nights.

Each act of kindness, each moment we share, Reminds us of how much CTtransit does care.

So here’s to our customers, our partners, our team— Together, we’re rising to the top just like steam.

May your holidays sparkle, your journeys be bright.

And may the spirit of giving stay with you each night.

Sincerely,

Thomas E. Stringer Jr. General Manager

3.

CT LEADERS UNITE IN SUPPORT OF TOYS FOR TOTS Connecticut leaders have come together to celebrate the season of giving for the annual Toys for Tots Drive, a heartwarming event that underscores the unique partnership between CTtransit, the Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT), the Connecticut State Police (CSP) Troop H, the United States Marine Corps, and Planet Fitness and the positive impact it has on our community.

Carol O'Shea, Manager of the Governor's Mansion, said, "It wouldn't be the holiday open house without this. It's about kicking off the holiday spirit. The governor is thrilled, and so am I! I love every minute of it—I even write Christmas Carol on my name tag!"

The event started in 2023 by gathering donations for the Connecticut Children's Medical Center and has grown to involve multiple partners, including Planet Fitness and LEGO. This year, the festively decorated bus began its journey collecting toys at the Governor's Mansion in Hartford and continued making stops across the state. Key stops included the CTfastrak Cedar Street Station, the State House and State Police Troop H barracks in downtown Hartford, LEGO, Planet Fitness, and the CTDOT Headquarters in Newington.

"This is about giving back," said Scott Willis, AGM of Planning & Scheduling for CTtransit.

"We serve the public, and folks see us in the community generating happiness. The bus is a visible way to make a difference." Reflecting on last year's toy drive, he added, "There were more gifts than I thought possible.

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When we opened the bus doors, it was like an avalanche!"

Diana Palmer, Transportation Rail Officer 2 for CTDOT, emphasized community spirit, and the drive's more profound purpose. "We have this giving spirit. It's about making sure everyone has enough. This time of year, the little things we do to ensure others have a nice holiday is what matters," she said.

“THIS IS ABOUT GIVING BACK.” ­— Scott Willis, AGM of Planning & Scheduling

Palmer also highlighted the new CSP and CTDOT collaboration to enhance security on CTfastrak and CTrail, providing greater safety to holiday travelers and everyday riders alike.

"Look at what we were able to accomplish," said CSP Lieutenant Utermarck. "It shows what we can do when we work together. Especially on something so worthwhile like providing a holiday to kids."

With support from many generous donors, the Toys for Tots Drive will end its run on December 18, when the toys are transported to the Toys for Tots warehouse. There, volunteers will sort and prepare the toys to be distributed to needy families, ensuring children across Connecticut experience the joy of the season.

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Street photography by Dylan Detzer, "Stamford's #1 fan."

STAMFORD'S NUMBER #1 FAN For Dylan Detzer, public transportation is not just a means to get around — it’s a way of life. A Stamford resident who grew up without a car, Detzer has been riding buses since childhood and remains an advocate of public transit.

“I grew up riding public transportation,” Detzer said. “My mom didn’t have a car, and neither do I.” Dylan continues to rely on CTtransit for everything from commuting to work, to running errands, going to the doctor’s office, taking day trips, and everything in between. “The service runs very frequently, which makes it convenient,” he said.

One of Detzer’s favorite destinations for a day trip is Hubbard Park in Meriden, particularly in the fall. “The foliage is beautiful this time of year,” he said. Detzer enjoys looking out the window and witnessing the sudden contrast between the hustle and bustle of the city and the calming views of nature. “That’s what I love about CTtransit. You can start in downtown Stamford and then head to High Ridge Road, where it feels more peaceful. The change in scenery is pretty cool.”

Detzer’s love for buses travels beyond his daily route. In his spare time, he is an avid bus fan and photographer and runs a Facebook page called Connecticut and New York Buses and Trains.

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He also participates in an online community called CTShift, where transit enthusiasts can connect, discuss routes, share photos, and offer suggestions for system improvements.

“I’ve always been fascinated by different bus models,” Detzer said. “I still have my (childhood) toy buses to this day,” he said with a laugh. He maintains a collection of replicas, including models like the RTS and New Flyer models. Detzer then lamented the upcoming departure of Nova buses from the U.S. market.

Detzer’s passion for transportation recently brought him to the 2024 Connecticut Statewide Transit Roadeo, where he cheered on operators as they tackled the obstacle course. “I loved it—it was fun to watch operators navigate the challenges,” he said.

Through it all, Detzer remains a loyal supporter of CTtransit. “They do a great job with the service (in Stamford),” he said. “Buses come every 20 to 30 minutes, and I’ve never had an issue with a driver. They get me to my stop safely.”

For Detzer, riding the bus allows him to connect with his community, explore new places, and find joy in a service that has shaped his life. He is affectionately known as “Stamford’s #1 Fan,” after a quick chat, it is clear why.

Street photography by Dylan Detzer, "Stamford's #1 fan."

A CTtransit bus waits to transport Honor Flight veterans to Bradley International Airport.

CTtransit ANSWERS THE CALL FROM HONOR FLIGHT CTtransit has volunteered with Honor Flight since its inception in 2019. Their mission: transport veterans from Windsor Locks High School to Bradley International Airport in the morning, and then back again once their return flight touches down in the evening.

Now in its fourth year, as Honor Flight gains more traction and visibility, it has also received more applications from veterans. The word is out, and popularity is rising.

With this added demand, the Honor Flight board had a decision to make. As the waitlist continues to expand, so do the ages of veterans from WWII, Korea, and Vietnam who may face mounting mobility concerns or an evolving ambulatory status. The clock is ticking. How do we best provide a service for these veterans who bravely served our country?

You fly higher. You go bigger.

This year, a second Honor Flight was scheduled to support the expanded number of applications. The latest Flight saw 70 Vietnam veterans,135 travelers in total, make the voyage from Hartford to our nation’s capital.

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Instead of the typical three buses for the morning procession, CTtransit volunteered five.

A different organization might bristle at the idea of providing the additional service — not CTtransit.

“The willingness to help, the alignment of CTtransit's values and (Honor Flight’s) values to honor our veterans, it’s easy, it’s natural — it’s just awesome,” said Honor Flight president Dan Sparks.

CTtransit was more than happy to accommodate with more buses. It is a small price to pay to serve those who sacrificed so much for our country. When Sparks sent out the initial request for more buses than usual, he received a response within minutes. The headline of the message was this: “Whatever you want—we’re in.”

“IT'S SO EASY TO DEAL WITH CTtransit.

THERE'S NEVER ANY LET DOWN.” ­— Dan Sparks, Honor Flight President

“It’s so easy to deal with CTtransit,” said Sparks. “There’s never any letdown; there’s never any breach. They say they got it, and I know they will be there. It’s all taken care of.”

Sparks credits Blendi Nako, Superintendent of Transportation, Admir Shurdho, Transportation Supervisor, and Patrick Cooney, Hartford Division Manager, for their support in making this event run smoothly.

“CTtransit is proud to support Honor Flight and provide transportation for these brave veterans,” said Cooney. “We deeply value their service and sacrifice and are more than happy to help in any way we can.”

The response from veterans who attended this event has been eye-opening. Vietnam veteran Robert Starr shared, “This is one of the most important days of my life (to be here with my son).” Veteran Jim Dooley shared, “(Honor Flight) has blown me away.”

Sparks and company also received emails of support from veterans who attended, saying, “I’m not sure I could’ve gone through this emotional time without (Honor Flight’s) support.”

Another veteran shared, “(This event has) closed one very dark chapter and opened a very bright one for me. Thank you for doing what you do.”

This event has the potential to leave an indelible mark on our veterans. Sparks does not take this responsibility lightly.

“We don’t just transport veterans,” continued Sparks. “We’re not a tour group; we’re not tour guides. We honor and, in some cases, we rehabilitate veterans. This is the day they never got, but this is the day they earned.”

CTtransit is deeply appreciative to be part of such a meaningful mission alongside Honor Flight. Providing transportation for our veterans isn’t just a service—it’s a way to give back to those who gave so much. CTtransit remains committed to this partnership with Honor Flight, ensuring that veterans receive the recognition and respect they deserve.

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COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT CT STAND DOWN 2024

WATCH EVENT HIGHLIGHTS

A scrapbook featuring Barry Diggs' on the field highlights.

BARRY DIGGS: SUPERSTAR ON AND OFF THE FIELD When the lights are bright, you want Barry Diggs, Director of Planning & Scheduling, at the plate.

Growing up in West Haven, Diggs didn’t play a lot of baseball at first. His friends were interested in other sports, so he did not find the opportunity to play it. It was when he met Mike Freeman—a kid who could always be found pitching at the schoolyard—that Diggs’ love for the game was sparked.

One day, he was hanging around when Freeman called out, “Hey, B, stand there!” (in the batter’s box). Intrigued, Diggs stood in and watched pitch after pitch scream by. At first it the ball moved too quickly, but once he internalized the timing, he thought to himself, I could hit this. And when he finally got his hands on a bat, he did just that.

For Diggs, the thrill of connecting with a pitch was electric.

“Hitting a baseball is the hardest thing to do in sports,” he said. “A narrow bat, a little ball—it’s a rush to hit it hard.”

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Before long, Barry spent entire summers with the Petrizzulo’s, a local Italian family who embraced him as one of their own.

There, he didn’t just learn the fundamentals of the game, he learned how to find community in baseball. “They were my second family,” Barry recalls. “I was ‘Barry Petrizzulo’ during the summers.”

Diggs quickly stood out. He was drafted first overall in the local Babe Ruth league at age 13.

Soon after, he threw a no-hitter, and was getting on base in half of his at-bats and made the all-star team. His talents brought him to the American Legion team where he traveled across Connecticut and ultimately won the State Championship.

“You get your name in the paper once, and you want to see it there again,” Diggs jokes.

His journey brought him to the University of New Haven, to the same field where he watched games as a kid. Playing for legendary “Coach V”, who regularly led his team to the College World Series, was a dream come true. It wasn’t easy though—being a freshman starter could be intimidating—but his confidence grew with every hit and every throw. “Eventually, the intimidation fades, and you start making friends,” he said. His teammates would shout to him, “Oh, I didn’t know you could hit like that!”

By his junior year, Diggs faced family responsibilities that shifted his focus. Baseball had become “more business than fun,” and he ultimately left the team. He briefly considered going pro and was drafted by the Bridgeport Bluefish, an independent league team, but a shoulder injury temporarily put that dream to rest.

Recently, he found new joy in competitive U-trip softball, where he even had the chance to play against baseball icon and one half of the “Bash Brothers”, Jose Canseco. Diggs’ team came out victorious.

However, U-trip softball was a huge commitment. It was not uncommon to play 13 games in one weekend, travel the nation to compete, or limp into work on Monday. He has been lucky throughout his career, he found family in the Petrizzulos, support from his own parents, his aunt, and of course, his wife. “My number one supporter was definitely Marcie Diggs, my wife… If she didn’t give me that blessing, then I wouldn’t (play).” Marcie Diggs encouraged him to play, stay active, and follow his passion.

Now, his daughter Brooklyn Diggs, is following in his footsteps, showing her own prowess on the field. Barry’s legacy lives on in her dedication. “That’s my passion right now because she wants to get better,” said Diggs. “We do training sessions (when she’s not at work or dance practice).” Last year Brooklyn Diggs led her team in batting average.

The next time you see Diggs around the office, remember there’s more to him than meets the eye. His journey from West Haven’s sandlots to heralded tournaments around the country is a testament to his talent—and the steady support of his family and baseball community. As for what’s next? 2025 marks Diggs’ long-awaited return to the diamond.

The legend is back.

Stamford's Parade Spectacular featured 15 giant balloons of family favorites.

EDITH WADE: KEY TO THE CITY What’s that in the sky? It’s a bird, it’s a plane, it’s… giant balloons of both! In Stamford, the holiday season officially begins at the annual Stamford Downtown Parade Spectacular, one of the largest of its kind in the country. This year, the parade featured up to 15 giant helium balloons, award winning marching bands, local dance groups, and the Legendary Daredevil Bello Nock!

Reportedly, the Parade Spectacular is second only to Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in size, attracting up to 200,000 attendees annually. For CTtransit’s Edith Wade, Supervising Transportation Planner— it is her highlight of the year.

“I’ve been attending since I moved to Stamford 15 years ago,” Wade said. That first year she followed the music out of her building and has gone ever since.

What keeps Wade coming back each year? “It’s not long and drawn out—just an hour packed with something for everyone,” she said. Over the years, Wade’s most memorable balloons include beloved characters like Snoopy, Elmo, and Big Bird soaring through Stamford skies.

“I love the atmosphere—people tailgate, enjoy the restaurants, and just have a good time,” she said. “It’s safe, family-friendly, and full of good energy.”

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Though, one moment always stands out, “Of course, the (highpoint) at the end is Santa Claus!”

As a sponsor of the event, CTtransit also understands its importance to the city.

“We provide three buses to shuttle balloon volunteers from the end of the parade back to the start,” said Andrew Miranda, Stamford Division Manager. “It’s a good thing to give back to the community, especially for the kids—they love seeing the balloons.”

For Wade, Miranda, and the thousands in attendance, the Parade Spectacular is a heartwarming reminder of the power of community and the joy of the season. “We’ve been helping the parade for years, and it’s always rewarding to contribute to something so meaningful,” said Miranda.

By volunteering time and resources, CTtransit embraces the true spirit of the holidays: giving and togetherness.

Vaishnavi Pandala (second from left) and Shilpi Gupta (second from the right) pose for a photo with their co-workers in celebration of Diwali.

SHILPI GUPTA and VAISHNAVI PANDALA: KEEP SHINING When Shilpi Gupta, Operations Performance Manager, and Vaishnavi Pandala, Operations Analytics Specialist, celebrated Diwali with their CTtransit colleagues, they were not just sharing what the holiday means definitionally; they were sharing with us a piece of who they are. Diwali, known as the “festival of lights,” is one of the most cherished celebrations in India, transcending religions and regions.

“It’s a festival of lights, nice food, culture—everything is included,” said Gupta. Pandala added that Diwali is a day to celebrate “good over evil, light over darkness.” When we light up our homes (or offices), we are inviting the goddess Lakshmi in to help us prosper.

For both women, Diwali is near and dear to their hearts. Pandala fondly recalls celebrating in her youth, “As a kid, I was always excited about this festival because it was all about fireworks, sweets, and happiness.” Gupta remembers cleaning her home, decorating with flowers and lights, and gathering with extended family. “We used to go to our parents' ancestral place and spend time with family…It’s important to feel connected with your roots.”

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Gupta says that as a child, you are constantly playing but might not fully understand your family values unless you go and spend time with your family. Now, she enjoys sharing the joy of Diwali with her own children — and they love it.

The idea to bring Diwali to the office came from a supportive colleague, Cliff Bond, Manager of Operations Analytics, who encouraged them to share their traditions. Bond bought some decorations at the store, Gupta and Pandala also brought decorations from home, and together they adorned the office with flowers. “It was fun decorating the office. Everyone helped,” Pandala said. The experience was made sweeter for them when coworkers showed a sincere interest in learning about the festival’s meaning and rituals.

“SHARING OUR CULTURE AND HAVING IT APPRECIATED — IT WAS REALLY NICE.” ­— Shilpi Gupta

For Gupta, the warmth and curiosity of her colleagues made the celebration memorable.

“Sharing our culture and having it appreciated—it was really nice,” she said. Pandala was initially hesitant to wear her traditional Salwar suit at work but found joy in the positive reception from her team. “People were inviting. It felt warm and welcoming,” she said.

Good triumphed at CTtransit during this year’s Diwali celebration. This holiday represented a chance for many of us to connect on a personal level beyond the four walls of our offices.

Gupta and Pandala felt seen and celebrated, and their coworkers embraced the chance to learn and grow together. Diwali not only lit up the office, it also helped create a workplace where everyone can truly shine.

Jacquelyn Romprey (middle) volunteers with the Hamden Community Emergency Response Team.

JACQUELYN ROMPREY: CERT-IFIED FOR SUCCESS When searching for a new hobby, some turn to painting. Others might pick up gardening or hiking. Not Romprey. What she discovered would change her life and help heal a community.

The Hamden Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) was started in 2004. It is a FEMA-certified organization that educates volunteers about disaster preparedness and instructs them in basic response skills such as fire safety, light search and rescue, basic first aid, and disaster medical operations. CERT runs under the direction of the Hamden Fire Department; it does not self-deploy in a disaster; instead, it is called to action.

During Hurricane Irene in 2011, CERT helped establish a three-day shelter at the local high school. Romprey volunteered for all three days, 24 hours a day. She spent her time as a Swiss army knife, helping wherever necessary by registering those in need, making coffee, sharing medical supplies, and more. Since 2005, Romprey has logged over 1,500 volunteer hours of community service through CERT, which includes countless training opportunities and real-world applications.

“Jackie is very civic-minded,” said Robert Freeman, CERT program coordinator. “She is always looking to help people… She’s like the godmother of CERT. She takes in everybody as her own.”

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COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT 12th ANNUAL DISABILITY RESOURCE FAIR

WATCH A TRUE CTtransit STORY

JILL LARMETT Disability Resource Coordinator at Capital Workforce Partners

Quantum is the only system in the world that gives complete independence to mobility passengers.

CTtransit PILOTS ACCESSIBILITY INNOVATION with QUANTUM Transportation is independence. It offers the freedom to move, find employment, receive an education, healthcare, and recreation. It empowers communities by creating opportunity and improving quality of life. With reliable transit options, everyone can reach their destination.

That is, in part, the basis for the Quantum pilot program that CTtransit has initiated by partnering with Q'Straint. Quantum is an advanced automatic wheelchair securement system that provides a self-securement experience for wheelchair users. This system allows customers in wheelchairs to independently secure themselves on the bus by simply backing into the system and pressing a button, locking their wheelchair in place.

"This device gives (customers) the freedom, safety, and independence to come on and off the bus," said Christopher DeGrave, Assistant General Manager of Safety, Security & Technical Training.

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You will find Quantum in use in paratransit organizations across the globe. However, with over 450 buses in rotation, transit systems are not using it to the scale that CTtransit is considering with this pilot program. As New England's second-largest public transit system, CTtransit would offer customers unprecedented access. For this pilot, one Quantum device will be deployed on a bus in New Haven, Stamford, and on the CTfastrak — all traveling various routes.

"We're looking to partner with disability organizations and groups that would be interested in attending a field day event or bringing (a bus) to an organization and having people try Quantum.” DeGrave said. “We want to get feedback. We want to know if customers feel safe and experience increased independence." If this pilot succeeds, CTtransit's goal is to add Quantum devices on new buses moving forward.

“CTtransit IS COMMITTED TO IMPROVING ACCESSIBILITY IN PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION.” ­— Thomas E. Stringer Jr., General Manager

“CTtransit is committed to improving accessibility in public transportation,” said Thomas E. Stringer, Jr, General Manager. “Piloting innovative initiatives like Quantum is one of the ways we are working to create a more inclusive and equitable transit experience for all.”

Quantum is unique in that it requires no additional assistance from the professional bus operator. This device can adapt to almost any device, large or small, and uses Smart Sense technology to detect and adjust the grip on the wheelchair automatically. The deployment takes roughly 30 seconds.

"I've been with the company for 16 years; I understand the mechanical aspect of (Quantum)… but didn't realize how we were changing someone's life," said Marlon Gutierrez, OEM Sales Engineer for Q'Straint. "What we do is very important. It's a sense of service. We are helping."

NEW HAVEN'S RECIPE FOR THANKS Amidst a season of changes, the New Haven CTtransit customer service team found a meaningful way to connect and show gratitude just before the holiday. With staff retiring, transitioning, and new hires joining, Loany Rosado, Customer Service Supervisor, saw the perfect opportunity to bring the team closer together...

Rosado suggested a Thanksgiving potluck lunch, where the team (even a few remote staff) would gather and celebrate one another. The team eagerly joined, bringing dishes like shredded pork shoulder, lasagna, Spanish rice, and an assortment of delicious cakes and cookies.

“Everybody’s going through something, especially during the holidays,” Rosado said. “I just wanted to thank them for their commitment and let them know they’re appreciated.”

Between work and life, our plates can fill up quickly—especially during the holiday season.

That’s why it’s so refreshing to gather around great food and great company. After all, sharing a full plate with others is what this season is all about.

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COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT BIKES ON BUSES

WATCH THE TUTORIAL

OPERATOR INCLEMENT WEATHER SAFE DRIVING TIPS VERONICA CHAVERS "You have to be very alert. Get your rest — that’s more important than anything. Block out all distractions."

BRIDGETTE L. MARQUIS "I take my time, I leave a lot of space because you never know what’s underneath. You've got to be careful pulling into a stop because you can slide."

JOE TAITAGUE "Always look ahead for hazardous road conditions. Move around in that chair, don't get tunnel vision. Look left to right, look ahead."

NeJAUGHN D. WARE "Make sure you get the proper rest. Be alert at all times. at the end of the day we have to keep in mind we have precious cargo — someone’s mom, daughter, sister, brother, grandmother — you always want to keep that into consideration."

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FTA OFFICIALS TOUR CTfastrak We were honored to have the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) officials, including Acting Administrator Veronica Vanterpool, tour our very own CTfastrak!

Vanterpool's involvement in transportation is deeply intertwined with our bus rapid transit system. She once helmed an advocacy organization that championed the creation of CTfastrak and has experienced first-hand what it took to take this project from an idea on the page to where it is now — the nation's top-ranked bus rapid transit system, as recognized by the Institute for Transportation and Development Policy.

"I have a very close connection to CTfastrak, this work, and transit ridership," said Veronica Vanterpool. "It shows that when you make investments in transit, the ROI is significant in terms of jobs, economic development, and of course, ridership and mobility gains, environmental gains, and economic benefit."

With a special appearance from New Britain Mayor Erin Stewart, this tour was a fantastic opportunity to showcase our commitment to improving public transportation for Connecticut's communities and discuss our initiatives for enhancing service, accessibility, and safety.

A big thank-you to our leaders at the Connecticut Department of Transportation, Bureau Chief Benjamin T. Limmer, and Deputy Commissioner Karen Kitsis, for their role in the day's event and our day-to-day operations that keep CTfastrak at number one!

Together, we're paving the way for a more sustainable and efficient future, one ride at a time!

TESTIMONIALS:

REAL VOICES THAT INSPIRE US

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HOLIDAY REWIND

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HOLIDAY REWIND

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celebrates

Hispanic Heritage MONTH Steering Pioneers “Your individuality is important, but so is belonging. Recognize the parts of your culture that have shaped your past, and the parts you want to carry with you into the future.”

SOL PERALTA Global Product Lead, Google

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HOLIDAY REWIND

WATCH GM STRINGER'S VETERANS DAY MESSAGE

CTtransit is proud to announce a new initiative, "CTtransit Salutes Our Heroes: Free Rides for Veterans," offering complimentary bus rides to veterans, active-duty military personnel, retirees, and disabled veterans on Veterans Day, Monday, November 11. This initiative honors the profound sacrifices made by those who have served and continue to serve our country.

Veterans can access this benefit by presenting a valid military ID to any professional bus operator within the CTtransit service system.

"CTtransit continues to stand behind our veterans and active-duty military personnel," said Thomas E. Stringer Jr., General Manager. "This gesture is our way of giving back to those who have already given so much for our country. Freedom isn't free, but this Veterans Day, fares will be for our veterans."

VETERANS DAY CELEBRATION

HARTFORD, NEW HAVEN, & STAMFORD CT

NOV 11 & 12, 2024 Page 38

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C O N G R AT U L AT I O N S

N OV E M B E R S A F E T Y W I N N E R S

NEW HAVEN

STAMFORD

Robert Artes #715 Duvelt Bolivar #6081 Ivette Caraballo #675 Thomas Cretella #762 Jose Ciprian-Jimenez #6086 Brandon Harris #6020 Kenson Jean-Baptiste #6051 Eli Jean-Guillaume #6127 Ricardo Marmol #577 Samuel Marquez #561 Patrick McKain #6126 Walter Morton #719 Lenora Parks #769 Karrae Streater #6131 Rigo Torres #744 Rochelle Wadd #720 Paul Woolfork #483

Jean Lamour #8029 Jones Mongerard #8030 James Warren #1984 Peter West #2132

HARTFORD Komla Agbetossou #13452 Sharah Anderson #13277 Andre Bonitto #13105 Irrfan Chatten #11776 Luis Claudio #13423 Bryant Cote #13280 Mark Egli #13323 Clevon Ellis #13429 Ramzaan Gafoor #11882 Christopher Georgiades #13116 Dainnese Govan #13215 Renee Foster #13321 Howard Haskell #13469 Jovid Holder #13224

ShiLonda Hudson #13225 Kathleen Lehmann #13209 Nancy Lugo-Parks #13060 Gregory Mahoney #13039 Carlos Martinez #11563 Aida Mendoza #13258 Dereck Ortiz #13270 Nathaniel Robertson #13478 Rashed Rupom #13057 Terrica Parry #13427 Vidalys Pino #13484 Jason Pollard #11860 Carlos Tirado #13443 Jesenia Velez #13496

Mario Venture #13448 James Weaver #13450 Andrew White #13325 Kenneth White #11818 Elece Wilson #13262

GONE FISHIN’ HAPPY RETIREMENT! Rosa Algarate Customer Service Stanley Bator Professional Operator Denis Daly Professional Operator Marion Davis Customer Service Jeffrey Dobbs Professional Operator Yllson Elmasllari Professional Operator Denise Gordon Professional Operator German Goritz Professional Operator Leopold Henry Fueler/Steam Cleaner Samuel Jackson Professional Operator Rostislav Kosovay Professional Operator Michael Lamirande Professional Operator Eligio Marquez Professional Operator Errol Melville Professional Operator Gerald Perrelli Professional Operator Essar Ramsarup Technician James Reilly Professional Operator Nathan Shultz Technician Nastasha Simmons Customer Service Joseph Taitague Professional Operator Nicholas Villa Professional Operator

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CONTRIBUTORS CONTRIBUTORS THOMAS E. STRINGER JR. THOMAS E. STRINGER JR. KEVIN MELENDEZ KEVIN MELENDEZ MIKHAIL VEXLER GLORIA JENVILLE Executive Viber / General Manager

Vibe Copy Editor / Assistant General Manager Vibe Copy Editor / Assistant General Manager Guest Viber / Retired Professional Operator

Guest Viber / Administration Executive Assistant

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

Send your guess to: communications@cttransit.com

VANESSA P. BROOKS, MA Viber-in-Chief / Executive Director of External 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 CTtransit’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.

ISABELLE BROWN

Head Vibes Strategist / Multimedia Manager

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 CTtransit shifted her focus from vans to buses. In her work as CTtransit’s Multimedia Manager, Isabelle is responsible for digital communications through our social media platforms and website. Isabelle loves writing, crocheting, exploring nature throughout Connecticut, coffee, and animals.

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KENNY FACEY

Vibe Views / Cinematographer / Photographer

Kenny is a proud Jamaican who packed up and moved to the USA to turn his entrepreneurial dreams into reality! By day, he's a passionate cinematographer with nearly five years of experience capturing life’s most memorable moments on film.

By night (or whenever the party calls), he's spinning tunes as a DJ with his own wedding company. When not behind the camera or the decks, you’ll find him outside, fishing, playing soccer, and soaking up everything nature has to offer!

MICHAEL McKIERNAN

Art, Graphics & Vibes / Brand & Communications Manager

Michael arrives at CTtransit 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.

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