Volume 21, Number 15
www.berlincitizen.com
Thursday, June 1, 2017
Area towns collaborate on innovation grant projects By Ashley Kus Citizen staff
Berlin High School juniors will take over as senior house coordinators next year for Upbeat. From left: Sarah Crabtree, Jimmy Wicander, Morgan O’Connor, Jimmy Christodlous and Hetal Patel. | Photos by Ashley Kus, The Berlin Citizen
Upbeat picnic honors seniors, welcomes new leadership By Ashley Kus Citizen staff
“It will be more feasible, there’s more interest with collaboration,” said Chris Edge, economic development director, on Berlin’s future development.
“I think the kids enjoyed the year,” said Jack Rudy, Upbeat director.
The Berlin High School alumnus took over the position last year when longtime director The rain didn’t stop Berlin students, families and friends from en- Alice Mitchell retired. At the Former Town Manager Denise joying the annual Upbeat picnic at end of his first year as director, McNair was awarded the Peronace the fairgrounds Thursday, May 25. See Picnic, A10 Volunteer Appreciation Award.
Central Pizza receives top business award By Ashley Kus Citizen staff
nual Economic Development Awards Wednesday night, May 24 at Shuttle Meadow Country Club.
Central Pizza on Mill Street took home the title of Business of the Year at the 16th an-
“Central Pizza, as everyone knows, is a staple in Berlin,” said Mayor Mark Kaczynski. “It
has encompassed family, food and fun for kids and adults for decades.” George Bikakis accepted the award on behalf of the family
with grand marshals
Berlin has been looking at the revitalization of the downtown area with new housing units and a focus on the train station. Several meetings were held for a transit-oriented study being conducted by CivicMoxie, a consultSee Projects, A3
Mayor Mark Kaczynski, George Bikakis with the Business of the Year award for Central Pizza, and Economic Development Director Chris Edge. | Ashley Kus,
See Pizza, A2
Wayne Carini and his daughter Lindsay 67029-02
Transportation and business connections will be part of five projects that Berlin, New Britain and Farmington will collaborate on as finalists for the CT Next Innovation Places grant.
The Berlin Citizen