Arts grants go to two local groups
Two local arts organizations received grants from the Connecticut Office of the Arts: Opera New England of Northeastern Connecticut (aka Performing Arts of NE CT), Pomfret; and Windham Theatre Guild, Willimantic The office awarded 122 CARES Act Emergency Relief grants totaling $350,000. Grants range from $1,500 to $3,000. The Connecticut CARES Act Emergency Relief grant program was made possible with funding distributed by the National Endowment for the Arts from the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act to preserve jobs and help support organizations forced to close operations due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

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Water main work
in Thompson
THOMPSON — Beginning the week of July 13, Connecticut Water will begin replacing about 2,600 feet, or one-half mile, of water main on Main Street between School Street and the river. The water main being replaced is about 100 years old. The project is expected to run through September and is estimated to cost approximately $1 million.
Project work hours will be 7 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday, except for holidays.
“This project will improve reliability of water service, enhance water quality and supply more water to hydrants along the road,” said Craig J. Patla, Connecticut Water’s vice president, service delivery. Patla added that the project is being done through the company’s Water Infrastructure and Conservation Adjustment (WICA) program.
Connecticut Water has notified customers along the construction route about the project. Additional information is available on the company’s website at ctwater.com/projects.

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PUTNAM — Putnam will honor WWII veteran and Putnam resident Victor E. Lippiello, on the occasion of his 100th birthday, at 11 a.m. July 16 in Rotary Park
The program, which is being coordinated by the office of Putnam Mayor Norman “Barney” Seney and the Putnam Recreation Department, will join forces with the Mayotte-Viens American Legion Post #13, the Putnam Lodge of Elks #574, St. Mary Parish and Lippiello family members.
The program will begin with a salute to the country’s colors, and an invocation by The Very Rev. David Choquette, pastor of St. Mary Parish.  The Pledge of Allegiance will be led by Lippiello’s granddaughter Victoria Ywarsky and great-granddaughter Josephine Ywarsky.
Seney will issue a proclamation, officially announcing July 16 as Victor E. Lippiello Day in Putnam.  State Representative Rick L. Hayes will also make a presentation.   A representative from the office of Congressman Joseph Courtney will offer words of appreciation.
Seney said, “I’ve known Mr. Lippiello for many years.  He’s always been a hard-working individual who is dedicated to his community.  His service in the U.S. Army during WWII is well known although he seldom speaks of it.  This day and this celebration are well deserved.”
The Putnam Elks, where Lippiello has been a member for 75 years, will be represented by Exalted Ruler Brinda Miller as well as David Gilbert and Michael R. Coderre of the Elks Pitch League.  Lippiello is known as “Champ” at the Pitch League, which he helped found years ago. The American Legion Department of Connecticut Commander Dennis Beauregard will bring greetings from the Connecticut membership as well as from National Commander James “Bill” Oxford. Brian D. Maynard, commander of Post #13, will also make a special presentation to Lippiello who is a member of Post #13.
Immediately following the program, there will be a light lunch and the opportunity to congratulate Victor E. Lippiello, Putnam’s “Man of the Day.” 
In the event of rain, the program will be held at the Riverview Marketplace. Attendees are urged to wear masks and observe social distancing.
Lippiello is a WWII vet who was a light machine gunner in the 511th Parachute Infantry, 11th Airborne Division. He took part in two major campaigns in the Asiatic Pacific Theater of Operations. 
He made jumps and engaged the enemy in Leyte and Luzon in the Philippines. Following his discharge, he was married to his wife Josephine for 53.5 years prior to her death 20 years ago. Following his time in the Army, Lippiello worked at the DMV in the Putnam office.
American Legion District #4 Commander Ronald P. Coderre, who is working with the Mayor’s Office, said: “As soon as the word got out that Vic was turning 100 years old this year, people and organizations came forward asking to assist in the celebration.  He’s a humble man who, despite his advanced age, continues to remain active and involved in helping others.  His relaxed, laid back personality endears him to everyone he meets.” said Coderre. For information contact Coderre at: 860-942-7243.

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