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Protect Your Assets: Free Seminar
The Town Plot Neighborhood Association will hold its monthly meeting on Tuesday September 2nd at 7:00 p.m. at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church Hall, 785 Highland Ave., Waterbury. This month’s keynote speaker will be Tim Angiolini, Agent/Owner of a State Farm agency in Watertown. Mr. Angiolini will discuss how young families can leverage a tight budget into asset protection, reduce insurance costs without increasing risk exposure, get the most from their financial and insurance professionals, adequately plan for education and retirement, and much more. Tim has been helping individuals, families, and businesses locally for several years, and holds multiple licenses Community Police Officer Christopher Gagnon will provide his monthly report, and also address questions related to safety. The Town Plot Neighborhood Association encourages all residents to attend and participate. Town Plot Neighborhood Association Meeting
The Town Plot Neighborhood Association will hold its monthly meeting on Tuesday September 2nd at 7:00 p.m. at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church Hall, 785 Highland Ave., Waterbury. This month’s keynote speaker will be Tim Angiolini, Agent/Owner of a State Farm agency in Watertown. Mr. Angiolini will discuss how young families can leverage a tight budget into asset protection, reduce insurance costs without increasing risk exposure, get the most from their financial and insurance professionals, adequately plan for education and retirement, and much more. Tim has been helping individuals, families, and businesses locally for several years, and holds multiple licenses Community Police Officer Christopher Gagnon will provide his monthly report, and also address questions related to safety. The Town Plot Neighborhood Association encourages all residents to attend and participate. ABOVE: A glimpse of the Town Plot Neighborhood Association 2014 Annual Picnic and Concert.
Town Plot Neighborhood Association
Free Picnic and Concert The Town Plot Neighborhood Association's annual Free Picnic and Concert will be held on Sunday, August 10, 2014, 1:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at Town Plot Park. This year's event will include The Waterbury Fire Department's 'Smoke House' that will give presentations on fire safety in and around the home for children and adults. All children will receive a gift for their visit to the "Smoke House." The 3D Band will perform from 1:30 to 3:30 and Tony The Magic Man will entertain the children during the same time period. Starting at 4:00 p.m. through 6:00 p.m. Band Leader Dave Gardino will lead The Andy Nichols Orchestra Big Band Sound in honor of long time leader Andy Sepe who passed away last year. "SPARKLES The Clown" will do face and arm painting and balloon sculptures along with clown fun from 4:30 to 5:30. Hot dogs, chips and soft drinks are free. All attendees should bring their lawn chairs. Although the picnic is free to everyone, all Town Plot residents and their families are asked to attend so they may meet their neighbors. Rain date is August 17. There will be a membership table for Town Plot residents to join The Town Plot Neighborhood Association or pay outstanding dues. First Ever Multi-Organizational Drive:
Boasts a Dozen Non-Profit Groups Town Plot Neighborhood Association is hosting a Multi-Organizational Membership and Charity Drive at Kennedy High School, from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., on Saturday, February 22nd, 2014. Participating organizations include: Town Plot Neighborhood Association, Town Plot Sports Association, Waterbury Sons and Daughters of Italy, Apex International Education Partners, Eagle Flyer, Ciochetti Foundation, Brass City Harvest, Liberty-Continental Lodge, Harmony Lodge, Doric Chapter Order of DeMolay, Girl's Inc., food drive, and many others. Learn more about how these organizations benefit you and the Town Plot community when you attend one event this coming Saturday, at Kennedy High School, from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Learn about what the neighborhood association does, how you benefit, and how you can participate. Involve and enroll your kids in sporting activities. Know what to look for to prevent crime, and take part in patrolling your area. Find out how student exchange programs don't always mean that you have to have a child who is s student. Donate clothing and food for the truly needy in our community. Learn more about nutrition for our elderly, how essential it is, and what you can do to ensure healthy diet and cooking habits. Multi-Organizational Member and Charity DriveTOWN PLOT, WATERBURY: As non-profit, not-for-profit, charity, and religious membership organizations abound successfully throughout Greater Waterbury, each is constantly challenged to maintain and increase awareness, membership, and participation. With that in mind, the Town Plot Neighborhood Association is hosting a Multi-Organizational Membership and Charity Drive at Kennedy High School, from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., on Saturday, February 22nd, 2014.
Some of the participating organizations include: Town Plot Neighborhood Association, Town Plot Sports Association, Liberty-Continental Lodge, Town Plot Citizens Patrol, Eagle Flyer (Kennedy High School newsletter bake sale), Harmony Lodge, Doric Chapter Order of DeMolay, the Ciochetti Foundation (Clothing drive for new children's winter coats, gloves, and scarves), Girl's Inc., Apex International Education Partners, Waterbury Sons and Daughters of Italy, Children's Dyslexia Center of Connecticut, and many others. Learn more about how these organizations benefit you and the Town Plot community. |
Town Plot Hill Meets
The monthly meeting of the Town Plot Neighborhood Association is scheduled for February 13th, 2024, at 6:30 p.m. It will be held at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church Hall, located at 785 Highland Avenue. Guest speaker Michael Tierney, Librarian III, will be sharing valuable information on how to become a library cardholder. Additionally, Joseph McGrath will provide updates on city projects, while Community Officer Lt. Mike Stokes and Officer Mike DiGiovancarlo will discuss neighborhood activity developments. Refreshments, including coffee, will be available for attendees. For further information, contact the Town Plot Neighborhood Association President and City Alder Maria Grace Covallo. Town Plot Neighborhood Association Contact DataTown Plot Neighborhood Association
Alderwoman Maria Grace Cavallo, from 2016 to date 
Note and DisclosureAlthough this, and many other neighborhood associations and neighborhood community clubs have existed in this city for, in some cases, over 100 years, and although none of them have ever been neighborhood housing associations, they have been erroneously listed as such on the official City of Waterbury website as such. To be clear, neighborhood housing associations are very much different from condo associations, and both of those are very different from organizations such as Neighborhood Housing Services of Waterbury (NHSW) and Loyola Development Corporation, and all of those are vastly different from any of Waterbury's neighborhood associations and neighborhood community clubs. The function, purpose, and manifestation of each of these types of organizations is significantly different, and none should be confused with the other.
Event Attendance Log2015
May ..................... 33 April ................... 33 March ................. 36 February ............. 33 January .............. 39 2014 Christmas Party 35 November ........... 41 October .............. 43 September .......... 49 August picnic .... 310 July (vacation) June .................... 49 May ..................... 48 April ................... 46 March ................. 44 February ............ 38 January ............. 44 2013 Christmas Party 29 November .......... 28 October .............. 86 September ......... 79 August picnic ... 214 July (vacation) June ................... 85 May .................... 79 |
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The Leadership
President: Vincent E. Martinelli Secretary: Dawn Scott Treasurer: Jack Martins Sergeant-at-Arms: Ed Senk Membership: Maria Grazia Cavallo Association Requests Camera InstallationThe Town Plot Neighborhood Association officially asked the City of Waterbury Board of Parks Commissioner to install and safeguard a surveillance camera system at Town Plot Park.
The installation of the cameras will mainly serve the purpose of detracting people from committing vandalism and theft of public property. As a benefit, if a crime takes place within the park, the video of the crime may lead to assailant arrest. Several limitations constrain the ability of current technology from being more useful and efficient. According to Town Plot Neighborhood President Vincent E. Martinelli, wired cameras only require a service wire, and not a separate electrical wire. This works well where connected wires are feasible. Wireless cameras can be installed more readily, and in a wider variety of locations, except that each camera needs to be powered. This means that separate electrical service would be needed for each camera, or each camera would need to have its own internal power source. Such cameras could have battery systems, or solar systems, or a combination. Self-powered cameras become cost-prohibitive. Either camera system can include a recording device, live connectivity to the internet, and flashdrive expansion and portability. However, connection to the internet requires a separate router, and service to the internet requires a monthly fee. Both wired cameras and wireless cameras have distant constraints. Wired cameras typically come equiped with 60-foot cables, which can be reasonably expanded to 100 feet, or as much as 200 feet, without increasing the expense beyond reasonability. Also, either system would need a monitor on-site in order to view live or recorded footage. To be practical, surveillance systems installed in public parks would need to have night vision. Lower-end systems typically have mono-chrome capacity of upto 85 feet, and more expensive systems can include full-color in day or night light, higher resolution, and coverage over greater distance. These and other considerations make it difficult for neighborhood associations to self-fund an adequate surveillance camera system, according to Martinelli. As of yet, there is no City funding for such endeavors on a wide scale. Fulton Park is a primary exception. |
November Town Plot Neighborhood Association MeetingThe Town Plot Neighborhood Association held its monthly meeting on Tuesday, November 19th at 7:00 p.m. in Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church hall, 785 Highland Avenue. Normally, all member meetings are held on the second Tuesday of the month.
November's meeting featured a discussion and explanation of the newly enacted Affordable Health Care Act. Jim O'Brien, President of American Association of Retired Persons Connecticut Advisory Council, and Kathy Null, American Association of Retired Persons Connecticut Advocacy Volunteer, were on hand for the presentation, and answered audience questions. Each attendee also received handouts which included a copy of the Power Point presentation which explained the Affordable Health Care Act. Members of the Association and other Town Plot residents attended this important informational meeting concerning the changes in health care. Community Officer Chris Gagnon gave his monthly report, and offered some safety tips specific to Town Plot and the shopping season. New members joined the Association that evening. Refreshments were provided. |
September 2013 Meeting on Video! Click here!
President's Report for the September 2013 Member MeetingThe Connecticut Community Foundation invited President Vincent E. Martinelli to a Community Forum regarding the proposed joint venture between Waterbury Hospital and Vanguard Health Systems, to represent the Association. Martinelli, President Theresa Longo of the East Mountain Neighborhood Association, Alderman Frederick L. Luedke, Mayor Neil M. O’Leary, President and Chief Executive Officer of the Connecticut Community Foundation Paula Van Ness, President and Chief Executive Officer of Waterbury Hospital Darlene Stramstad, Senior Vice President and Chief Development Officer of Vanguard Health Systems, and about 120 other notables attended the 90-minute conference. Full details will be reported at WaterburyLife.com. Questions from Association Members may be addressed at the October Member Meeting.
Town Plot Neighborhood Association Names New Sergeant-at-ArmsThe Town Plot Neighborhood Association reached a unanimous decision last night, September 3rd, 2013, to appoint long-time member Ed Senk as their new Sergeant-at-Arms.
The position, which became vacant at the unexpected death or Sergeant-at-Arms Andy Sepe, is important for the success of Association meetings and functions. Senk has consistently attended the majority of Member Meetings for at least 3 years, and has proven to be a valuable asset to the Association. The appointment became effective as the first order of business at the Board of Directors meeting. Senk will be working closely with member Dense and other members of the Board in making other procedural and functional improvements to the operations of the Association. Membership Secretary Report for September 2013As of June 30th, 2013, the Association membership topped 127. We are accepting new applications tonight, and renewals. If you paid your dues prior to October 1st, 2012, your membership expired or will expire on September 30th, 2013; Please renew as soon as you can.
Nomination Committee Report September 2013Chaired by Elaine Dense
The Association is seeking to fill vacant and soon-to-be vacant positions, to include: Secretary, Membership Secretary, Deputy Treasurer, and 3 Directorships. Treasurer's ReportThe Treasurer's Report will not be available online.
Secretary's ReportThe Association is seeking a volunteer to be our Secretary. Duties will include attending Member Meetings and Board of Directors Meetings, and about 2 hours of clerical work per month. The secretary must be able to use email.
Waterbury Neighborhood Council Committee Report for September 2013 Chaired by Elaine Dense
The Annual Awards Dinner will be held at the Aria in Prospect on Thursday, November 14th, 2013. The Association will provide $50 towards the event; tickets for this year’s spectacular event are only $50 per person. Waterbury Confections has been postponed until late March or early April due to the Council’s involvement in several other very worthy projects. The event will take place at the Palace Theater on East Main Street. At the approval of the Board of Directors, President Martinelli has been appointed to fill the recently vacated spot on the Committee. Membership Committee Report for September 2013Membership Committee
The Membership Committee is currently seeking additional volunteers and suggestions to maintain and increase our growing list of paid members. Board of Public Works Committee Report for September 2013The Wesley Street Project has been completed.
A minor intersection project is taking place on Oronoke Road at Holy Cross High School. A paving project on Highland Avenue south of Nichols Street is in progress. Chief of Staff Joe Geary promised Association members at the May meeting to get back to us within 2 days with a list of streets in Town Plot which are slated to be asphalted over the coming 12 months. There has been no response to date. Also see “Residents ask for Support” below. Scholarship Committee Report for September 2013Chaired by Director Clorinda Hanlon
Our next Scholarship Fundraiser is being planned. Due to lack of funding, the Association did not provide a scholarship this year (fiscal 2012-2013). Beautification Committee Report for September 2013Chaired by Director Roy Ann James-Elerbee
The Association Adopt-a-Spot is looking great! The plantings are flourishing, and maintenance by volunteers was required only twice since Brooks Landscaping finished the project a few months ago. Picnic Committee Report for September 2013Chaired by Vice-President Art Dense
This year’s Annual Picnic and Concert was again a tremendous success due to the efforts of Directors James-Ellerbee, D’Angelo, and Hanlon, committee chair Elaine Dense, and others. Special thanks to event whip cracker Elaine Dense. The event highlight was the 17-piece orchestra; the musicians were complimented by a magician who entertained children of all ages. Picnic Committee Chair Dense will submit a full press release to the Republican-American and to WaterburyLife.com. Safety Committee Report for September 2013Anyone who is interested in obtaining Fire, Smoke, and/or Carbon Monoxide detectors, who has not already done so, is urged to contact President Vincent E. Martinelli. The detectors are free to owners of 1 and 2 family homes, and to tenants.
Local safety organizations, such as Crime Stoppers, Neighbor-hood Watch, Police Officer Christopher Gagnon, the Association’s Safety Committee, and Town Plot Citizen’s Patrol, are all working diligently to thwart and report crime. Despite several noticeable improvements, Town Plot continues to be plagued by seemingly random burglaries and seemingly “inside job” repeat burglaries. The neighborhood has also experienced a marked increase in automobile accidents, speeding continues as well, and vehicles continue to regularly park in fire zones, no parking zones, and on sidewalks. All of these events have been reported to the Waterbury Police Department every month for at least 36 consecutive months. The reports have been made by the Association, Crime Stoppers, Neighborhood Watch, area residents, and others. (Town Plot Citizen’s Patrol is specifically prohibited from reporting parking, speeding, and a host of other crimes to the Police Department – directly or indirectly – per orders of Police Chief Riddick.) These reports of crimes have been provided directly to Police Officer Timothy Bachand, Police Officer Christopher Gagnon, Police Lieutenant Stevenson, Police Chief Gugliotti, Police Chief Riddick, Mayor Jarjura, Mayor O’Leary, and others. Much of this information has been recorded at Association meetings, the Republican-American newspaper, Channel 3 News, WaterburyLife.com, various Facebook groups and discussions, and others. President Martinelli, and 2 other Town Plot residents attended a recent Town Plot Citizen Patrol member drive; see more information toward the end of this newsletter. Communication between Town Plot Citizens Patrol and both the Association and Police Department have been sluggish at best. Parks and Recreation Committee Report for September 2013Various safety hazards throughout all three parks in Town Plot are of serious concern, and are at high potential to cause bodily injuries. The unremedied issues leave the City open to a negligence lawsuit.
An easy fix to many of the tripping and falling hazards – which have great likelihood to cause spinal injury, brain injury, and death - is the simple installation of wood chips in all of our play areas. The problems, suggestions for remedies, and requests for wood chips have gone unanswered for years. These issues were reported several times to Mayor Jarjura during at least the last 3 years of his administration, and to Police Officer Timothy Bachand when he was our Community Police Officer, and to Mayor O’Leary at our (recorded) March 2011 Member Meeting, and to Mike Ptak (member of the Board of Park Commissioners) at the Kaboom installation, and to Alderman Brunelli at our 2012 Annual Picnic and Concert, and to Chief of Staff Geary at our (recorded) May 2013 Member Meeting, and to Police Lieutenant Stevenson and Police Chief Riddick at our (recorded) June 2013 Member Meeting, and to our current Community Police Officer Christopher Gagnon at nearly every meeting since he was assigned to our neighborhood, and to a park worker at Town Plot park about 2 years ago, and to a park worker at Chase Park about 2 months ago, and to Aldermanic President Pernerewski, Alderman Napoli, Alderman Piccochi (liaison to the Board of Park Commissioners), Alderman Brunelli, Alderman Luedke, Alderman Noujaim, Alderman Giacomi, Alderman Margiotta, Alderman Burgio, and Alderman Padula at each of the Member Meetings they attended. Residents Ask for SupportThe last time the residents of Town Plot near the Brooklyn border at Wilson Street needed something, they came to the Association to ask for help. The residents got the help, and the Association, along with support from Waterbury advocate Lawrence De Pillo, stopped a developer from constructing what they call an eye sore by circumventing the City's ordinances. The Association stepped in, and the project came to a screeching halt.
The residents in the immediate area are facing another round of sneaking around by the land owner and the Zoning Commission. This time, the battle will unfold – at least in part – in court. It will cost area residents at least $750, and a lot of leg work, to take their battle to court. Those residents again asked the Association for support. The Association agreed to support the cause, but not with money. Members of the Board of Directors agreed that no part of the $750 will be paid by the Association. The Association is, once again, asking those residents to join the Association and become paid – if not active – members. Membership Report for September 2013The Town Plot Neighborhood Association now has 110 residential members and 17 business members. The recent postal mailing was the single most effective membership drive initiative in several years, but was not immediately cost effective. The significant increase in membership compared to a year ago is largely attributable to more accurate recording and membership drives.
Church and AssociationsThe Association has recently fortified its efforts to maintain and improve the long-standing and healthy relationship with Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church. The Church has also recently established an affinity with other organizations, such as the newly formed Sons and Daughters of Italy. Similarly, the Association has re-strengthening its ties with the Masonic Lodge, and is looking for ways to establish communication with other community groups throughout the neighborhood.
This is what the entire City needs: Communication, participation, and mutual support between and among community philanthropic and volunteer organizations. Membership is Vital to Quality of LifeThe recent threat of having a telephone communications tower installed in Town Plot Hill has many residents in an uproar. Neighbors say that the tower would be intrusive, ugly, and dangerous to human health.
Town Plot Neighborhood Association President Vincent E. Martinelli said that he expects loud and vocal resistance to the idea. The proposed location in Town Plot Hill is central to the business district and Town Plot Park. Martinelli said that there are many members of the Association who live within the immediate area, and said that the project will have an uphill battle with residents. The zoning change violation fiasco a mile away, also in Town Plot Hill, which was stopped last year due to intervention by the Association, was not stopped this time around because residents in that area did not have the support of the Association, and their fight was futile. Now the residents will need to retain an attorney and pay all related costs out of their pockets. |
Calendar of Events October 26th - BINGO!
October 26th - Public Auction This information is for reference only. Do not rely on this information for accuracy. Additional information, including many more activities, events, and meetings can be found at the Calendar at WaterburyLife.com Masonic Lodge Sponsors Annual Walk for DyslexiaPlease contact the Masonic Lodge for more information regarding the Walk for Dyslexia. In previous years, the walk started out at the lodge, circled up Chipman Street to Oronoke Road, to Country Club Road, to Chase Parkway, to Highland Avenue, and back to the lodge (for a total of about 1 mile).
The walk sponsors dyslexia education; ALL monies go directly to their school, also on Highland Avenue. Please help by walking the walk or donating to the cause. Town Plot Citizen's PatrolPresident Martinelli, along with 2 other residents, attended the Town Plot Citizens’ Patrol (TPCP) membership drive meeting at Montiero’s Restaurant on September 1st, 2013. There are over a dozen members currently, and each one went through and passed the Police Department course. The patrols can be on foot or by car (but must be in pairs); however, there can be no pursuits or confrontations.
Chief catalyst, former Waterbury Police Officer, and former Association President Joseph Savoy contends that they have received all positive feedback, and that there seems to be an increase in interest. According to Savoy, the general feeling is that there has already been a positive impact. The TPCP is working on a schedule of patrols (which will neither be made public nor will be predictable), and they are currently seeking additional volunteers. Order Sons and Daughters of Italy at WaterburyTown Plot Neighborhood Association members Vincent E. Martinelli, Rosalie Rinaldi, Carmella Rotella, Frank Rotella, John Lombardi, and others, attended the recent Order Sons and Daughters of Italy – Waterbury Monthly Member Meeting (not representing the Association). The newly formed Order is currently accepting new applications.
The Order has already established a working relationship with Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church, and is currently forming various philanthropic activities. The Order is asking area residents to donate non-perishable food goods to them, which will be distributed to Waterbury shelters and food banks. Their specific request this month is for donations of napkins (preferably in bulk), as most shelters and food banks do not have an ample supply. To make a donation if you will not be able to attend their October 14th meeting, please ask one of the above Association members to convey your donation for you. Donations are tax deductible. Membership ReportThe Town Plot Neighborhood Association now has 110 residential members and 17 business members. The recent postal mailing was the single most effective membership drive initiative in several years, but was not immediately cost effective. The significant increase in membership compared too a year ago is largely attributable to more accurate recording and membership drives.
Town Plot Festivale Italiano di Nostra Signora del Monte Carmelo Chiesa ai 75 AnniL'annuale Nostra Signora del Monte Carmelo Chiesa festa, a 75 anni di seguito, ha avuto quello che molti hanno descritto come il migliore affluenza nella storia della manifestazione.
Come tipico, la linea per pizzelle andato chiaro fino in America via tutto il modo di Highland Avenue, e, a volte, dietro l'angolo - facilmente spanning 200 piedi. Questo non era solo quando la festa iniziata, o all'ora di cena, era "fuori dalla porta" la maggior parte del giorno Giovedi, Venerdì e Sabato, con una tregua temporanea intorno 03:30 di Domenica. Il festival ha attirato circa 15.000 persone in tutto entro la fine del business Venerdì, con circa 6000 persone lì in tempi peek. La pasta fritta è più di una principale attrazione culinaria - è una tradizione nella tradizione del festival. 18 volontari, ad un'età media di oltre 82 anni ciascuno, stendere la pasta, che i consumatori mangiano pianura, o migliorare con il burro, lo zucchero, la cannella, salsa di pomodoro fatta in casa, o qualsiasi combinazione. Entro la fine della giornata il Venerdì, oltre 1.200 chili di pasta era fritto alla perfezione, e secondo come riferito vicino a £ 5000 nel corso della festa di 4 giorni. Reverendo Padre Aniello, Pastore, sembrava soddisfatto dal buon funzionamento di tutta la produzione. L'aggiunta dei Figli e Figlie di stand Italia, e altri, accenno di possibile espansione della manifestazione culturale annuale del prossimo anno. Presidente Onorario del Festival, Giovanni Lombardi, ha rifiutato di speculare sulla crescita della manifestazione storica, o la direzione che potrebbe prendere. Il punto forte era la presenza spirituale onorato di Mons. Mansell, che, dopo le funzioni religiose e la tradizionale processione che circonda il centro di Città del Plot, benedetto il cibo prima che sia reso disponibile per il consumo a circa 2:00 pm Domenica. Come negli anni passati, la festa italiana ha accolto vicini di casa di origine italiana - o almeno quelli con un'affinità di cultura italiana - con bandiere italiane e americane, lungo Highland Avenue da Chase Parkway a Bradley Avenue (in collaborazione con il Comune Plot Neighborhood Association) . Decine di volontari del lavoro per ore e ore prima, durante, e dopo l'evento. I vari dignitari e politici barzellette, ricordi e discorsi Venerdì sera condivisi. Alcuni degli ospiti speciali includono: Governatore Malloy, Sindaco O'Leary, diversi Alderman (stranamente mancava era Town Plot residente Alderman Marigiotta), Rappresentante dello Stato D'Amelio, (US) senatore Blumenthal, (stato) il senatore Hartley, e vari altri. Città Trama Neighborhood Association Presidente Martinelli, è Direcoti D'Angelo, Hanlon, è James-Ellerbee è stato anche lì. La famiglia Lombardi, e la famiglia D'Amelio, hanno a lungo sostenuto la Chiesa e le sue funzioni, la loro dedizione e il duro lavoro contribuiscono a rendere il festival un anno di successo dopo anno. I tanti volontari sembravano guidati dai loro senso di realizzazione, la comunità, la tradizione e l'orgoglio. Molte delle festività frequentatori fedelmente tornare ogni anno, e molti di più i nuovi arrivati sono attratti al festival ogni anno. Nuove amicizie sono forgiati, e le amicizie ole si rinnovano, come di Waterbury quartiere più antico gode di una delle feste più antiche e più frequentata nella storia della città. Una delle principali attrazioni è una giovane band che forse riflette l'importanza del legame della comunità, e, allo stesso tempo, la speranza che il nostro futuro è in buone mani. Discendenti di 3 delle famiglie più attive e rispettate della città, tutti i sostenitori della Madonna del Monte Carmelo Chiesa e la comunità in generale, formano questo gruppo coperchio 3-utente. Una lamentela costante di evento di quest'anno è stato quello della musica messicana, che era più prevalente il Giovedi e Venerdì che il Sabato e la Domenica. "Ho viaggiato più di mezz'ora per arrivare qui, e ho avuto modo di ascoltare la musica spagnola?" ha detto Connie di Terryville. "Ci avevano promesso questo come un festival italiano, e una band spagnola sta cercando di mettere insieme una reazione dalla folla giocando la canzone Mexican Hat. 'Assurdo." ha detto Jim di Città Plot. "Speravo di esporre i miei figli a un po 'di più del loro patrimonio, portandoli ad un festival italiano. Sono contento che io non li ho portato stasera, e io non li farò domani sera come avevamo programmato." ha detto Jen di Plymouth. Tony di Wolcott ha detto, "Se questo fosse un evento multi-culturale, sarei ancora qui. Ma ho patrimonio italiano e mi sono confuso con la rappresentanza degli italiani da parte di un gruppo ispanico". Jose di Brooklyn ha aggiunto, "Sono portoricano, ma sono venuto qui per condividere la cultura di mia moglie. Andiamo al festival ispanica per gustare il cibo ispanica e musica ispanica. Non abbiamo bisogno di più se è qui." 
Association Membership is Vital to Preservation of Quality of Way of Life
The recent threat of having a telephone communications tower installed in Town Plot Hill has many residents in an uproar. Neighbors say that the tower would be intrusive, ugly, and dangerous to human health.
Town Plot Neighborhood Association President Vincent E. Martinelli said that he expects loud and vocal resistance to the idea. The proposed location in Town Plot Hill is central to the business district and Town Plot Park. Martinelli said that there are many members of the Association who live within the immediate area, and said that the project will have an uphill battle with residents. The zoning change violation fiasco a mile away, also in Town Plot Hill, which was stopped last year due to intervention by the Association, was not stopped this time around because residents in that area did not have the support of the Association, and their fight was futile. Now the residents will need to retain an attorney and pay all related costs out of their pockets. "A simple $10 per year membership", Martinelli added, "would have stopped the project in its track at no cost to the residents nor the Association." When asked if the Association will fund the fight, Martinelli said, "This is a decision which will be made by the Board of Directors. The residents in the area already contacted the Association - which they do only when they need something from us - asking for us to fund at least part of the legal battle. I'm sure that I can convince the Association to foot the entire bill, up to 10% of the total collected in new dues by residents in the immediate vicinity. Shy of that, the Association may decline the invitation to pay for something which could have been avoided on the grounds that apparently - based on membership contributions and neighbor participation - the vast majority of neighborhood residents are not opposed to the project." Martinelli also said that some residents proposed to the City that a new street light be installed at the intersection of Bradley Avenue and Wesley street, but the attempt failed largely due to the fact that the well-intentioned advocates neither informed nor asked the Association for guidance or support. The replication of the recently highly successful citizen patrol of the Historic Overlook District Neighborhood Association was nearly dead in the water at Town Plot Hill, Martinelli said, since former Association President Joseph Savoy - spearhead of the endeavor - also didn't bring his idea to the Association for guidance or support. In a private conversation between Martinelli, Police Chief Riddick, and Police Lieutenant Stephenson - all whom were unaware of Savoy's intents - this topic was discussed energetically. Martinelli said that the new citizen patrol in Town Plot Hill - dubbed Town Plot Security - was not in real danger "of being shot down because the residents and Association are greatly in favor of such a patrol", but noted that the integrity of former Waterbury Police Officer Savoy - at least in the eyes of the Waterbury Police Department - was seriously tarnished, and the Police Department considered disallowing Savoy's project, or perhaps allowing it but without the involvement of Savoy. 
The picture above was taken from Town Plot Hill's Murray Park in the Murray Park Neighborhood. Framed by nature, the skeletal feature, center, is one of the many electrical towers which Connecticut Light & Power has recently announced they will upgrade. The water supply tower, which looks like a stilted bubble or a tear drop, to the left of the electrical tower, is over 3 miles away. The feature which looks nearly equi-distant from the electrical tower but to the right of it, is a cell phone tower, much like the proposed tower which is intended to be installed 100 feet from Town Plot Park; that tower approaches 4 miles from the photographer's location. Further to the right, what looks like a support for the electrical wires, is another cell phone tower. As seen here, it appears to dissect the lower wire, and pierce the next wire up. In reality, the wires and the cell phone tower is over 2.5 miles away. This is an example of how modern technology impacts vistas; imagine how the cell phone tower would look if it were 100 feet from your back window, as apposed to 15,980 feet away, as is shown here.
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Association Officers are Pro-Active on CrimeTown Plot Neighborhood Association Vice-President had nearly completed the Waterbury Police Department Citizen's Police Academy recently. Roy Ann James-Ellerbee began her training through the same program on September 16th, 2013. Meanwhile, President Vincent E. Martinelli has been coordinating communications with the Town Plot Citizen's Patrol - attending a meeting with the group's founder, Bob Marti, and 2 member meetings with Marti, Joseph Savoy, and other members. Martinelli also accompanied Marti on a recent patrol of Town Plot Hill.
Town Plot Neighborhood Association on FacebookSeptember 10th, 21013 Member Meeting BriefsThe Member Meeting was held on September 10th, 2013, and there were at least 78 people present. The keynote speaker was Mayor O'Leary, and guest speakers were Chief Riddick and Community Police Officer Gagnon. The following are highlights from the Mayor's presentation and response to member questions:
AT&T desperately needs a cell phone tower in this area. About a year ago, the City turned down the request from AT&T to install a tower at the firehouse on Highland Avenue. After suggestions by the Town Plot Neighborhood Association President Martinelli, the Mayor and AT&T investigated Upper Murray Park as an alternative location. The Citing Council has final say, but the Mayor feels "very strongly" that the Citing Committee and AT&T will take the Murray Park location as a serious consideration. Due to the typography in Town Plot, AT&T needs a 120 to 150 foot tower. The Mayor prefers a public location so that the income from the tower will enhance the City's revenue stream. The Mayor confirmed that AT&T's answer to the amount of emitted radiation from the tower is both elusive and incomplete. The Mayor said he has been working closely with Representative D'Amelio on this as well. Many of the Parks Department workers were demoralized at the merging of Public Works with the Parks Department. Therefore, many of them are "only doing what they can do". There is no more overtime, and their morale is very low. The Mayor said that every Sunday morning he tours the City, eyeing the conditions. The Parks Department promised the Mayor that they would work on the conditions of Town Plot park - specifically the park house, soccer field, and safety issues; since then, no noticeable improvements have been made. The Mayor said that he believes that he needs to give everyone a chance to do their jobs correctly. He is not happy at all about the results, or of the condition of our parks, or of the over all progress of the Parks Department. He eluded to removing workers from their positions if their results are not up to par. At the suggestion of some of our members, the Mayor will contact Naugatuck Valley Technical Community college's Horticultural Department to investigating the possibility of partnering with them regarding refurbishing the conditions of some of our parks. The Police Activity League has been instrumental in many of the cleanup efforts of several of our parks. Mark Carlson, President of the Blue Collar Union, was open-armed regarding the Mayor's request to allow citizen involvement in the maintenance of our parks. The Parks Board, according to the Mayor, is also enthusiastic about having community involvement. Town Plot park is on the list, but too many other parks were in more grave need of repair. The Mayor is putting wireless alarms on all park buildings to deter vandalism. The Mayor said that the bureaucracy within the City government is "disgusting". The Mayor said that his program to bring in very low-level offenders in a rehabilitation program to clean up some of our parks, namely the Scott Road Park, has worked out very well. He plans to repeat the process in the future, but only with low-level offenders. Regarding a member's concern over lack of curbing and of drainage problems on White Rose Avenue and Geddes Terrace, the Mayor asked the member to contact his office, and someone will investigate the issue and "try to get to it". Other members commented on the "lousy sidewalks" on and around Oronoke Road, highlighting the Waterbury Country Club's lack of maintenance. Members pleaded with the Mayor to have the sidewalks fixed - they are in such poor condition that pedestrians must use the roadways to walk - before someone gets hurt. The Mayor admitted that the Waterbury Country Club has not maintained the sidewalks they way they used to, and further stated that they have contributed to the City in many ways far more significantly then "you would never know about". The Mayor said that there is "very little" chance of getting any grants for sidewalks in that area because the average income is too high. The Mayor all but promised that, if he is re-elected, sidewalks will be install throughout the 4-mile circle around the core of Town Plot. The Mayor further indicated that Fairfield Avenue does not qualify for sidewalk grants, despite what "Mr. Pronovost told you". The Mayor said that the City was instrumental in having laws passed in Hartford regarding blight. He continued that "we have done more in the past 21 months than in the past 10 years". Members and the Mayor expressed frustration at how some of the sports fields at schools and parks have been neglected, and how many of them were poorly constructed or poorly designed, and are not suffering from poor drainage and therefore not useable. The Mayor described Library Park as "one of the most beautiful parks in the entire City". The Mayor said that the Waterbury Police Department "is widely respected throughout New England as one of the best". The Mayor said that "A month ago, we ran a sewer pipe" from Library Park into the sewer system on Meadow Street, and "the weekend before last, we ran the water line", regarding the installation of lavatory facilities at the park. "They're gonna be really highly secure state-of-the-art bathrooms." They will be fully operational by Thanksgiving. In response to questions about the "old SNET" building on Meadow Street, the Mayor said that on October 1st, 2013, the City will select a demolition crew; the contract was signed today (September 10th, 2013) with the state for the demolition project. All of the money, over $2 million, for this is already in place. Library Park will also have WiFi, and vandal-proof benches will be installed. The interior of the Silas Bronson Library will also be improved in several, mostly cosmetic, ways; no structural changes were mentioned. The City will be re-paying the pension fund until the year 2036, but it is being funded. According to the Mayor, the State Oversight Committee did a great job at balancing the budget for Waterbury and at setting up a pension fund. The Mayor also replied to member complaints about not having enough handicapped parking at and around Library Park. In response to member concerns, the Mayor indicated that the very old (original) windows in the Chase Building downtown need to be replaced, but the City is waiting for the timing to be right so that State funds can be used for 70% of the cost. The outcome of the test for the position of Police Chief will be announced within 8 weeks. The Mayor further urged everyone to come out to vote because "the squeaky wheel gets the grease." Town Plot Hill Italian Festival of Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church Turns 75!
The annual Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church feast, 75 years running, had what many have described as the best turnout in the history of the event.
As typical, the line for pizzelle went clear on up America Street all the way to Highland Avenue, and, at times, around the corner - easily spanning 200 feet. This wasn't just when the feast started, or at dinner time, it was "out the door" most of day Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, with a temporary reprieve around 3:30 p.m. on Sunday. The festival attracted an estimated 15,000 people in all by the end of business Friday, with approximately 6000 people there during peek times. The fried dough is more than a main culinary attraction - it is a tradition within the tradition of the festival. 18 volunteers, at an average age of over 82 years each, stretch the dough, which consumers eat plain, or enhance with butter, sugar, cinnamon, homemade tomato sauce, or any combination. By the end of the day on Friday, over 1,200 pounds of dough was fried to perfection, and reportedly close to 5,000 pounds over the course of the 4-day feast. Reverend Father Aniello, Pastor, seemed pleased by the smooth operation of the entire production. The addition of the Sons and Daughters of Italy booth, and others, hint of possible expansion of the annual cultural event next year. Honorary Chairperson of the Festival, John Lombardi, declined to speculate on the growth of the historic event, or the direction which it might take. The spiritual highlight was the honored presence of Archbishop Mansell, who, after church services and the traditional procession encircling the center of Town Plot, blessed the food prior to it being made available for consumption at about 2:00 p.m. Sunday. As with years past, the Italian Feast welcomed neighbors of Italian heritage - or at least those with an affinity to Italian culture - with both Italian and American flags along Highland Avenue from Chase Parkway to Bradley Avenue (in partnership with the Town Plot Neighborhood Association). Scores of volunteers labor for countless hours prior to, during, and after the event. Various dignitaries and politicians shared jokes, memories and speeches Friday evening. Some of the special guests include: Governor Malloy, Mayor O'Leary, several Alderman (oddly missing was Town Plot resident Alderman Marigiotta), State Representative D'Amelio, (U.S.) Senator Blumenthal, (state) Senator Hartley, and various others. Town Plot Neighborhood Association President Martinelli, and Directors D'Angelo, Hanlon, and Jame-Ellerbee were also there. The Lombardi family, and the D'Amelio family, have long supported the Church and it's functions; their dedication and hard work help to make the festival a success year after year. The many volunteers seemed to be driven by their own sense of accomplishment, community, tradition, and pride. Many of the feast-goers faithfully come back every year, and many more newcomers are attracted to the festival every year. New friendships are forged, and ole friendships are renewed, as Waterbury's oldest neighborhood enjoys one of the oldest and most frequented celebrations in the City's history. One of the main attractions is a young band which perhaps reflects the importance of community bonding, and, simultaneously, hope that our futures are in good hands. Descendants of 3 of the City's most active and respected families, all supporters of Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church and the community in general, form this 3-member cover group. |
--- PRESS RELEASE --- The next Town Plot Neighborhood Association Monthly Member Meeting will take place at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church hall on Tuesday, September 10th, 2013, from 7:00 to 8:45 pm. The Keynote speaker is Mayor O'Leary.
Mayor O'Leary was the scheduled guest speaker for the May meeting, but, despite confirming with the Town Plot Neighborhood Association 4 times, he canceled 4 days prior to the meeting so that he could attend a conference in Atlanta, which began the following day, and which he had booked in February. Guest and Keynote speakers are encouraged to read and required to abide by the Policy listed at the bottom of this page. 20130613 Schedule>Membership Meeting:
Tuesday, September 10th Unless otherwise specified, all meetings are held at the Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church Hall, 785 Highland Avenue, on Tuesdays, at 7:00 p.m. 20130613 Contact InformationTown Plot is in the Black Hard work and a cooperative administration have resulted in the improvement of several key public works projects in Town Plot. Finally, after many years of neglect, the sidewalks on all of Town Plot's Washington Street have been repaired. The temporary repair was done using asphalt, which is inappropriate and inferior to concrete. All but a stretch of a thousand feet or so was previously done using concrete, but the City cited funding as their primary reason for the temporary fix.
Similarly, Acra Road, Blake Street, Lawlor Street, Sullivan Street, Sunny Side Avenue, and others were newly resurfaced. This comes at the heals of the City's commitment to Town Plot Neighborhood Association Public Works Committee Chair Ralph D'Angelo that over $144,000 has been set aside to correct drainage and runoff problems on Wesley Street. The work is about 50% complete overall. Concurrently, the City has cleaned up and made minor improvements to many of the City's parks, including Town Plot's Chase Park and Town Plot Park. Submitted by Vincent E. Martinelli, President, Town Plot Neighborhood Association Waterbury Neighborhood Council CommitteeChaired by Elaine Dense
·The Gathering (report pending) ·Front Porch (report pending) ·Chili Fest – June 23rd, 12:00 – 4:00 p.m. – Waterville Historic Firehouse; Tickets are $5.00, Vendor entrance fee is $20 (must be licensed) for a 10’ x 10’ booth; Volunteers are needed – please help represent Town Plot by volunteering ·Confections – September 23rd (tentative) – Palace Theater; Food and Wine, tickets are $25 ·Awards Dinner – Thursday, November 14th - Aria (Prospect); Nominee profiles must be received by September ·Treasurer Jack Martins and WNC Committee Member, obtained contact information for most of the City’s other neighborhood Associations, and has forwarded that to President Martinelli. Picnic Committeeformerly Chaired by Director Andy Sepe
The picnic is scheduled for August 11th, 2013 from noon to 6:00 p.m. (rain date August 18th). The Andy Nichols’ Big Band Sound will be performing. This 17-piece orchestra has been funded in part by the Musician’s Union and in part by a grant from the City of Waterbury. The following vendors have all donated funding, food and other goods: Town Plot IGA Supermarket, Monteiro’s Restaurant, Thomaston Savings Bank, Costco, BJ’s Wholesale Club, Coca-Cola Distributing, and Crystal Rock. Picnic volunteers include: WNC Committee Chair Elaine Dense, Director Ralph D’Angelo, Treasurer Jack Martins, and President Vincent Martinelli. 20130613 Safety CommitteeChaired by President Vincent E, Martinelli
®Community Police Officer Christopher Gagnon has been tasked with handling a much larger geographic area, until most of the recently-resigned police officers are replace. ®An attempt to work with a crime prevention organization in our area has been made by a local non-member resident. The Association is not involved in any way. ®President Martinelli witnessed a vehicle marked “Town Plot Security” driving through the neighborhood; he followed up in person with Police Chief Riddick, who was unaware of any such vehicle. Police Lieutenant Stevenson is aware of an initiative in another neighborhood, but said that any such activity would need to be sanctioned by the Police Department, and the volunteers would need to be appropriately trained – and neither has taken place. Community Police Officer Gagnon further stated that such individuals would serve only as witnesses, and will not have any authority to take any action. Until further notice, the vehicle and activities of its occupants are deemed as suspicious. However, the Police Department strongly suspects that the driver of the vehicle – which is presumed to be owned by the driver – is former Waterbury Police Officer, former Prospect Police Officer, and former Town Plot Neighborhood President Joseph Savoy. If so, it is still unclear as to why any such vehicle or activities would have existed without appropriate authority – since, as a former police officer in the City he would have known better - and why the Association was not informed – again, since he was once the President of the Association so he would have known better. President Martinelli advised Police Chief Riddick that, if endorsed by the Waterbury Police Department, he would encourage dialogue, and, perhaps, a presentation to Members. Community Police Officer Gagnon has attempted contact with Savoy on 4 separate occasions, without a response. Lieutenant Stevenson indicated that he will attempt to contact Savoy, and express our concerns that he first meet with the Board of Directors, and then make a presentation to the membership at an upcoming meeting – hopefully the June meeting – since it is the last meeting for the summer and since the keynote speaker is Police Chief Riddick. At last check, Savoy has not responded to Stevenson, Riddick, Gagnon, or to any member of the Association. The Board of Directors has serious concerns in this matter, but anticipates a productive and informative dialogue with the group involved, if in fact the group is sanctioned by the Police Department. ®REMINDER: Any issues which can be provided to the Safety Committee prior to the meeting should be forwarded to Committee Chair, and President Vincent E. Martinelli. Issues which are not presented in advance and which are not urgent, may not be addressed at the Member meeting. ®While speeding continues to be a serious problem throughout Town Plot, we have noticed some improvement, albeit inconsistent, in a few – only a few – of the areas where repeated offenses continue to plague the blatant disregard for the law. Community Police Officer Christopher Gagnon indicated that he has forwarded Association concerns – which were sent to him via email by President Martinelli – to several other Police Officials, including Lieutenant Stevenson and Chief Riddick. The Officer is anticipating a response. 20130613 |
Town Plot's Madeo
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President's Report
Through the City of Waterbury’s Mayor’s Office, President Martinelli was invited to partake in a conference on Urban Violence. At least two other neighborhood associations, including the Historic Overlook Community Club, were represented. Alderman Brunelli, Alderman Hadley, Police Lieutenant Stevenson, Police Chief Riddick, Mayor O’Leary, and several other notables were on-hand for the NBC-televised session.
Governor Dannel Malloy was the keynote speaker. The Governor spoke about the several positive attributes of Waterbury’s involved citizens, and many of the reasons which he attributes to Waterbury’s low rate of violent crime. Among his reasons, Malloy attested that our strong commitment to, and active involvement in, our communities is the key that differentiates us from other cities. Waterbury also relies on its own crime laboratory, reducing results time from sometimes over a year to as little as a day in cities which rely on outside sources for laboratory results. Our efficient judicial process is touted as the best in the state, and that puts criminals behind bars quicker than any other community. The Governor also stated that there is a strong working relationship between Waterbury and the State, and between the State and Federal agencies. 20130613 Secretary's ReportThe Association is currently seeking a Secretary. Please contact any Board member for more information.
Absent of a Secretary, President Martinelli assembled all available contact information of City Officials and Departments, and has both an electronic and a printed version. He downloaded this information in April from Waterbury’s www.waterburyct.org website. In late May, President Vincent E. Martinelli obtained similar information in person from the City of Waterbury, and is also maintaining a list. Therefore, the Association will be in a better position to help members contact the appropriate people if such a need arises. 20130613 Membership CommitteeChaired by the Board of Directors
A Membership drive is planned for September 7th and September 21st at Town Plot IGA Supermarket. The Association is currently requesting a $500 grant from the WNC to fund our Member Drive efforts. (See Treasurer Martins.) Director D’Angelo made new and brightly colored signs which are intended to be posted at various key locations just prior to our member meetings. Treasurer Martins, Directors D’Angelo and James-Ellerbee, and Member Annette (surname withheld) have posted the Member meeting announcement flyers at several neighborhood businesses. 20130613 Parks and RecreationChaired by Acting Director Vincent E. Martinelli
We are currently anticipating a response from the City and the Parks Department regarding the condition of each of our parks, and various requests for material such as wood chips. President Martinelli asked Chief of Staff Joe Geary to follow up on this while Geary was guest speaker at the May meeting; Geary agreed that he would look into this and get back to Martinelli. There has been no response from anyone regarding this matter. Despite Mayor Neil O’Leary’s affinity toward parks in general, and his outward support of having our parks maintained appropriately, all 3 of Town Plot’s parks remain in poor and unsafe condition. Yet another swing has been cut off and stolen from Town Plot Park. The wood chips in at least 6 play areas are several inches below the minimum safety requirement. The same issues which have been reported to the City, including the Parks Department, the Police Department, and the Mayor’s Office, 3 years ago, still exist today. These safety issues are now issues of negligence. Events CalendarSeptember 10th – TPNA Member Meeting
September 13th – CTFM Walk for Dyslexia September 23rd – WNC Confections October 8th – TPNA Member Meeting and ELECTIONS Important Contact DataPolice Emergency 911
Police Routine 203-574-6911 Crime Stoppers 203-755-1234 Refuse Department 203-574-6857 Dog Warden 203-574-6909 Public Works 203-574-6851 Mayor’s Office 203-574-6712 Tax Collector 203-574-6811 Fire Department 203-597-3460 Health Department 203-346-3906 Citizen’s Service Center 203-597-3444 Citizen’s Service Center 31120130613 Town Plot Neighborhood Association ContactsPresident Martinelli 203-759-5675
432 Como Avenue vincentemartinelli@gmail.com Treasurer Martins Membership Secretary Gualtieri Director D’Angelo Director Hanlon Director James-Ellerbee Other positions are or soon will be open; they include: Secretary, Deputy Treasurer, Sergeant-at-Arms, Duties Officer, and Directorships 20130613 Our Partners/SupportersThomaston Savings Bank
824 Highland Avenue (203) 756-1874 https://www.thomastonsavingsbank.com/ Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church 785 Highland Avenue (203) 756-8981 http://www.olmcwtby.com/church/index.php Monteiro’s Restaurant 161 Fairfield Avenue (203) 573-0645 Town Plot IGA Supermarket 286 Fairfield Avenue (203) 754-7817 http://townplotiga.com/ Larry De Pillo Don Piombo The Masonic Lodge 531 Highland Avenue (203) 754-9539 http://www.ctfreemasons.net/ 20130613 WANTEDWe are seeking an individual who can volunteer 5 hours per month to attend Board and Member meetings, record them (typically via a recording device), and create meeting minutes. Word processor and email skills are required.
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Town Plot Neighborhood Association Policy for Guest/Keynote Speakers:
The Town Plot Neighborhood Association, Inc. is a non-profit organization which does not condone nor facilitate personal motives, nor is it politically affiliated or motivated. Therefore, selling, promoting, or endorsing any specific product, service, political candidate, politician, elected official, appointed official, business, or business owner, for the purpose of personal gain or for the gain of any such person or entity, is strictly prohibited. Likewise, any act of twisting, and any act of competitor downing, is strictly prohibited. Dissemination of products, services, or information which is beneficial to the Association or its members, affiliates, partners, or guests, is not prohibited if such does not create a conflict of interest, impropriety, appearance of conflict of interest, or appearance of impropriety. Any act which is harmful, whether deliberate or inadvertent, to the Association, its members, affiliates, partners, or guests, is also strictly prohibited.