Bradley seeks longer reach in the new year Bradley Fire Rescue is

The Airport News w P.O. Box 307 w Windsor Locks CT 06096 www.theairportnews.com
2014 Quarter 1
Bradley seeks
longer reach
in the new year
By Brad Kane
Hartford Business Journal
(Reprinted with permission)
Deputy Chief Thomas G. Durkin Jr. and Fire Chief John J. Duffy at Bradley.
(Photo courtesy of Bradley International Airport Fire Rescue)
Bradley Fire Rescue is prepared
for almost anything at any time
By Robin Lee Michel
For The Airport News
It is no simple task to protect the lives
and property of airlines, passengers,
visitors and tenants at Bradley
International Airport, especially when
6.5 million people travel through the
facility each year. However, this is
exactly the mission of the airport’s fire
department.
Heart attacks, motor vehicle accidents,
structural fires or aircraft emergencies
are all crises to which the men and
Not-So-Snooty
Hundreds of guests mingled at the
New England Air Museum and enjoyed
Bradley Family Day’s annual Not-SoSnooty, Beer, Wine and Cheese Tasting
Adventure. Proceeds went to the Hole in
the Wall Gang Camp.
Story and photos on Pages 8 and 9.
women on the 35-member force have
responded.
“It’s pretty diverse. It could be a
medical call one minute and a fire alarm
the next,” said Deputy Chief Thomas G.
Durkin Jr. “Everything is regarded as an
emergency. We don’t take anything for
granted.”
Aircraft can land 24/7/365 at Bradley
International Airport. There have
been emergency landings when cockpit
instrumentation or landing gear has
w See Prepared, Page 4
North Carolina. Ohio. California.
Europe.
The Connecticut Airport Authority
has some lofty destination goals in 2014
for Bradley International Airport in
Windsor Locks. All those goals might not
be realized, but the authority will be well
on the way to fulfilling them, said CAA
Executive Director Kevin Dillon.
“We want to offer our customers
the best amount of direct services,”
Dillon said. “We continue to chase the
international service.”
In its first year under the CAA,
Bradley in 2013 made some significant
enhancements to its route structure.
The highlight was American Airlines
launching nonstop service to Los
Angeles in August, with flights 87
percent sold in the first three months.
In September — the first full month
after the launch of the L.A. nonstop —
Bradley’s passenger counts increased
0.8 percent. However, the airport is still
facing declining passenger counts for the
year, down 1.9 percent in the first nine
months of 2013 compared to the same
time period in 2012.
Southwest Airlines added nonstop
service to Atlanta while JetBlue added
nonstops to Fort Myers and Tampa,
Fla. These new flights, which launched
in October, create competition for
existing flights from Delta Air Lines and
Southwest.
“We want to make a big push here
to bring our fares as low as possible,”
said Dillon, noting that fares out of
Bradley are down 4 percent year-overyear, according to U.S. Department of
Transportation data.
w See Longer, Page 7
TXT SOME1 A GR8 PICKUP LINE
Short & Long Term Lot
Long Term Lot 1
Short & Long Term Garage
Long Term Lot 3
Long Term Lot 4
Cell Phone Lot
Bradley now has a designated area for drivers who are
picking up someone at the airport. You can stay with your
vehicle, wait for a message from the person you’re picking up,
and then go wherever you need to go. It’s easy, it’s fast, and it’s
BRADLEYAIRPORT.COM
convenient. In other words, it’s very Bradley.
Share your stories and photos
The Airport News is always looking for
articles and photos of interest to the Bradley
International Airport community. Please
send your contributions by email to editor@
airportnews.com or by U.S. mail to The Airport
News, P.O. Box 307, Windsor Locks, CT 06096.
THE AIRPORT NEWS
www.theairportnews.com
P.O. Box 307, Windsor Locks, CT 06096 w 860-637-3068
The Airport News is published quarterly and distributed free of charge
in and around Bradley International Airport. It has served the airport
community for over 18 years. The Airport News provides news and
information to the nearly 18,000 full-time employees directly or
indirectly related to the services of the airport. In addition, it serves an
additional 19,000 travelers on 300 to 400 daily flights.
FOR ADVERTISING: J oan Hornbuckle, 860-805-1310
joanhornbucklencn@msn.com
FOR NEWS ITEMS / P
RESS RELEASES:
editor@airportnews.com
PUBLISHER:Raymond Roy, 860-637-3068
ray@airportnews.com
2 w THE AIRPORT NEWS w 2014 QUARTER 1
Where to find your copy
of The Airport News
Visit our partners in Windsor Locks:
Airport Shell
80 Ella Grasso Turnpike
Holiday Inn Express
600 Spring St.
Bert’s Spirit Shoppe
329 Ella Grasso Turnpike
Homewood Suites by Hilton
65 Ella Grasso Turnpike
Bradley Bowl
129 Ella Grasso Turnpike
La Quinta Inn
64 Ella Grasso Turnpike
Bradley International Airport
Schoephoester Road
Pickleworks Restaurant
541 Spring St.
Candlewood Suites
149 Ella Grasso Turnpike
Quality Inn
5 Ella Grasso Turnpike
Casey’s Market
496 Spring St.
Scata’s Auto & Truck Repairs
535 Spring St.
The Deli
329B Ella Grasso Turnpike
Sheraton Hartford Hotel
Bradley International Airport
DoubleTree by Hilton
16 Ella Grasso Turnpike
Skooter’s Restaurant
50 Ella Grasso Turnpike
Econo Lodge
34 Old County Road
Skyline Restaurant
106 Ella Grasso Turnpike
Ella Grasso Mobil
107 Ella Grasso Turnpike
SpringHill Suites
225 Ella Grasso Turnpike
Fairfield Inn & Suites
2 Loten Drive
Sprint Auto Carquest
430 Spring St.
First National Bank - Suffield
6 National Drive
Connecticut Airport Authority
and Standard Parking announce
new Frequent Parker Program
The Connecticut Airport Authority and Standard Parking
Inc. have begun a new Frequent Parker program, known as
Auto-Pilot Rewards, at Bradley International Airport.
The program started Oct. 1, and in its first month more than
500 customers were enrolled. The program uses automated
vehicle identification technology linked to a credit card
that allows easy entry and exiting. Customer credit cards
are automatically charged and Frequent Parker credits are
accumulated on customer accounts.
A second parking program, ClickAndPark.com, which is also
available at Bradley, is a simple, easy-to-use online reservation
program that gives Bradley Airport parking customers the
ability to reserve Premium Parking. On-airport parking
patrons are able to reserve parking on Level 3 of the parking
garage, in an area closest to the pedestrian walkway that
leads to the ticketing level of the terminal. When making an
online reservation, the customer will receive a parking permit,
customized directions showing the best route to the Bradley
parking garage, and how to locate the designated Premium
Parking area.
Kevin A. Dillon, executive director of the CAA, said, “These
on-airport parking amenities are another example of the
Connecticut Airport Authority’s continuing efforts to enhance
the customer experience and satisfaction at all CAA facilities.
Our partner Standard Parking’s Auto-Pilot Rewards and
ClickAndPark.com programs have made on-airport parking at
Bradley an easy — and rewarding — experience.”
Chuck Voase, vice president-east airports for Standard
Parking, said, “The Auto-Pilot Rewards program is the new,
fully automated Frequent Parker program that allows onairport parking customers at Bradley a quick and easy way
to pay while earning points for free parking. With the use of
an automated pass, customers don’t have to pull a ticket when
entering one of our parking facilities and they are able to
bypass the cashier lanes when leaving.”
For more information about on-airport parking programs
and options at Bradley, visit www.parkbradley.com.
About Bradley and the CAA
Bradley International Airport is the second largest
airport in New England and serves an extensive
geographic area, with a customer base that covers the
entire Northeast, including Western Massachusetts,
New York and New Jersey. According to the most recent
economic impact analysis, Bradley International Airport
contributes $4 billion in economic activity to the state of
Connecticut and the surrounding region, representing
$1.2 billion in wages and 18,000 full-time jobs.
The Connecticut Airport Authority was established
in 2011 to develop, improve, and operate Bradley
International Airport and the state’s five general aviation
airports (Danielson, Groton-New London, HartfordBrainard, Waterbury-Oxford, and Windham). The CAA
board consists of 11 members with a broad spectrum
of experience in aviation-related and other industries
as well as government. The goal of the CAA is to make
Connecticut’s airports, specifically Bradley, more
attractive to new airlines and bring in new routes, which
supports Connecticut’s overall economic development
and growth strategy.
Daily nonstop Atlanta service
begins on Southwest Airlines
With the addition of three flights to Atlanta (ATL), Bradley
International Airport (BDL) customers can choose from 20
different daily nonstops to eight different destinations on
Southwest Airlines.
The Connecticut Airport Authority announced the new daily
nonstop service from BDL to ATL began Nov. 3 on Southwest’s
wholly owned subsidiary, AirTran Airways.
Southwest is BDL’s most popular airline in terms of
market share — 27 percent. Besides Atlanta, Southwest goes
to Baltimore, Chicago, Denver, Fort Lauderdale, Las Vegas,
Orlando, and Tampa.
Mary Ellen Jones, the CAA chairwoman, said, “Southwest
Airlines’ confidence in the CAA and Bradley, as well as its
continuing ability to add destination choices to the airport’s
array of daily nonstop service offerings, is the latest
encouraging news that business and leisure travel are trending
upward. This is another example of the CAA’s ability to react
quickly to an opportunity to enhance Bradley’s daily nonstop
service options for our customers.”
JetBlue offers new daily nonstop
service to Fort Myers and Tampa
With the debut Oct. 24 of new daily nonstop flights from
Bradley International Airport (BDL) to Fort Myers (RSW)
and Tampa (TPA), the latest additions to the Bradley service
menu give passengers using “New England’s Gateway” six
daily nonstop warm weather options on JetBlue Airways: Fort
Lauderdale, Fort Myers, Orlando, San Juan, Tampa, and West
Palm Beach.
Kevin A. Dillon, executive director of the CAA, said, “In
addition to the six daily nonstop flights, the CAA is excited by
JetBlue’s overall commitment to the regional economy as the
airline added 38 new jobs here at Bradley within the past year.
These service and job commitments will benefit our customers
as we continue to enhance the overall route structure here at
Bradley International Airport.”
“Hartford is an important market for us, and it has grown
steadily since we first began service there in November 2010,”
said Scott Laurence, JetBlue vice president-network planning.
“Customers throughout New England are embracing our low
fares, award-winning service, free inflight entertainment,
assigned seats and free snacks.”
JetBlue serves eight airports in New England: Boston,
Burlington, Hartford, Martha’s Vineyard, Nantucket, Portland,
Providence, and Worcester. Hartford service has reached 10
daily departures to six destinations. Service on the HartfordFort Myers route is seasonal.
JetBlue’s Hartford- Fort Myers schedule, effective Oct. 27,
2013: Depart BDL 11:55 a.m., arrive RSW 3:12 p.m. Depart RSW
3:53 p.m., arrived BDL 6:45 p.m.
JetBlue’s Hartford-Tampa schedule, effective Oct. 27, 2013:
Depart BDL 9:10 a.m., arrive TPA 12:22 p.m. Depart TPA 12:25
p.m., arrive BDL 3:07 p.m.
2014 QUARTER 1 w THE AIRPORT NEWS w 3
w Prepared
Continued from Page 1
malfunctioned, reports of smoke in a plane, and winter skids
off the runway. When the airplanes landed, fire vehicles and
personnel were prepared for the worst and standing by on the
scene.
“Firefighting is a team sport where we must work together
and watch over one another. When we are called upon to
respond to an incident, it’s important it is done right the first
time. We have to be prepared for
the unexpected,” said Fire Chief
John J. Duffy, who joined the
department in April 1995.
A little over six months later, in
November 1995, one of Bradley’s
biggest aircraft emergencies
occurred. American Airlines
Flight 1572 came in too low and
swiped treetops on Metacomet
Ridge. With both engines severely
damaged, the plane then struck
a tree and took out airfield
antennas. One passenger suffered
a minor injury.
Luckily, “we’ve had few major incidents,” said Durkin, who
has served with Bradley International Airport Fire Rescue
since 1995, coming from a long career as a U.S. Air Force
firefighter.
Most emergencies are on a smaller scale and don’t involve
aircraft. During the 12-month period ending on June 30, 2012,
of 750 emergencies, 402 or 53 percent were rescue/emergency
medical service calls.
“We have AEDs (automated external defibrillators)
throughout the airport,” said Howard Libera, a Bradley
firefighter, who has attended to many medical emergencies
requiring basic and advanced life support. “I know we’ve saved
lives.”
“Each incident gives us the opportunity to evaluate the
response and make adjustments as necessary,” Duffy said.
There are two fire stations on Bradley International Airport’s
2,468 acres in East Granby, Suffield, Windsor, and Windsor
Locks. The close proximity to nearly every area of the facility
— and its 70-plus buildings — makes it possible for the units
to respond within the FAA’s requisite three minutes and begin
R-13 takes a high-speed trial run along one of the
airport’s peripheral roads. R-13 features the latest in
firefighting equipment.
(Photo courtesy of Bradley
International Airport Fire Rescue)
4 w THE AIRPORT NEWS w 2014 QUARTER 1
Howard Libera, who has been with the fire department
for almost 10 years, explains runway configurations.
(Photo by Robin Lee Michel)
A thermal imaging monitor on the dashboard of R-13
indicates where fire is inside an aircraft or structure.
(Photo by Robin Lee Michel)
operations within four.
While on duty, career firefighters stay in Station 1, located
off Route 20. The building has living quarters, a kitchen and
eating area, workout room, large conference room, emergency
operations center, training classrooms, a “ready room,” offices,
and an immense garage for many of the vehicles. The four
eight-person divisions, both men and women, serve 24 hours on
duty followed by three days off.
The newest component of the complex is the three-story
Class A burn building, which opened in October 2012. Located
at the nearby Connecticut Fire Academy, the 4,300-square-foot
concrete structure is designed to replicate an actual house
including all rooms, attached garage, basement and decks ,as
well as windows, doors and roofs. Firefighters can train in
various techniques and equipment.
Emergency services are not restricted to the airfield’s
grounds. As members of Task Force 52 in north central
Connecticut, the Bradley fire department and those in adjacent
municipalities provide mutual aid. During Hurricane Sandy,
several departments of Task Force 52 aided residents in
Westport. In February 2013, Bradley personnel worked several
calls during a winter storm that dumped nearly 23 inches of
snow. In July, they assisted the Windsor Locks Fire Department
after a tornado touchdown.
“Our overall mission extends to all of the Connecticut
Airport Authority airports: Groton-New London, Hartford-
w See Vehicles, Page 5
The design of the fire headquarters building allows for a
view of the airport. (Photo by Robin Lee Michel)
The nozzles can spray water or foam.
(Photo by Robin Lee Michel)
w Vehicles
Continued from Page 4
Brainard, Waterbury-Oxford and Windham/Danielson,” said
Durkin, who was named deputy chief in 2009. The airport fire
department also provides fire prevention programs, AED and
CPR training for employees and tenants, and fire extinguisher
training.
Classified by the Federal Aviation Administration as a Part
139 airport, Bradley International must provide aircraft and
rescue firefighting services during air carrier operations. Class
1 Index D specifications detail the mandatory requirements,
including having three vehicles capable of producing 4,000
gallons of a water/foam mixture.
The fire department has four models of Oshkosh Strikers, all
with various capabilities. The two largest vehicles — R-11 and
R-14 — each hold 3,000 gallons of water and 420 gallons of foam.
The R-13 also holds 500 gallons of Halotron, a fire extinguishing
agent that is considered “clean” because it does not leave a
residue or require special cleanup like regular foam.
Two vehicles are outfitted with Snozzles, highly specialized
50-foot elevated booms that can pierce the fuselage to
administer firefighting agents rather than sending firefighters
into a potentially deadly environment. An infrared camera on
the Snozzle detects exactly where the fire is located, allowing a
precise attack. The heat-detecting camera makes it possible to
“see” people when it is snowing, raining or foggy.
The fleet also includes structural fire vehicles: a Seagrave
Marauder and 30-year-old Pierce Dash Pumper. Support
equipment provides the additional services essential to specific
fire calls: A command trailer serves as headquarters wherever
the emergency; the mass casualty trailer transports medical
equipment that would be necessary in case of a major crash;
Rescue 7 is used by paramedics; and a decontamination trailer
was acquired after 9/11.
The equipment would be of little use were it not for the
extensive ongoing training and drills. “All our firefighters hold
a minimum Firefighter II certification. We also require all
personnel to attain airport firefighter certification,” the deputy
chief said. The FAA requires strict adherence in 12 specific
areas including aircraft familiarity, live fires and more.
“Fire chiefs strive to have their work force in a constant
state of readiness. This is accomplished by specific training
requirements and mandates. Training is by far the most
important task we do besides responding to incidents,” Duffy
said.
Airplane fires carry their own challenges. They generally
burn horizontally rather than vertically, as in structure fires.
The methods of attack are different and there are mitigating
factors such as the fuselage and dangers posed by airplane fuel.
Firefighters must be able to “pump and roll,” which means
operate the vehicles and equipment simultaneously.
During a recent demonstration using the joystick dashboard
controls, Libera adeptly switched from water to foam, spraying
at various heights as well as ground sweeping, all while keeping
a close watch on three surveillance cameras in addition to
the infrared device. Scenarios could be inside a terminal, on
a peripheral roadway, off road or on a runway. All traffic is
directed by the air traffic tower controllers to prevent major
accidents.
Alerts are classified as one, two or three, with the highest
level indicating a crash or working fire. “We spend a lot of time
training for incidents,” Libera said. “You hope it never comes
but it certainly will.”
So that the responses become instinctive, the department
works closely with airport operations to call out random
simulated events, Durkin said. The events include foam
training, participating in live burns, or rehearsing for aircraft
accidents. A mass casualty drill was conducted in 2012 with the
next scheduled for fall 2014. “Joint training sessions with our
mutual aid providers help us plan for complex incidents,” said
the fire chief.
Whatever the challenge, from a car accident to a major
aircraft catastrophe, the Bradley International Airport
Fire Department is ready. “Safety — both the public’s and
firefighters’ — is the priority,” Duffy said.
2014 QUARTER 1 w THE AIRPORT NEWS w 5
Sportech partners with Bobby V
for new concept in entertainment
Sportech Venues has announced a partnership with baseball
great and philanthropist Bobby Valentine in their new stateof-the-art restaurant and sports bar facility that is to open this
month at the Bradley Teletheater in Windsor Locks, next to
Bradley International Airport.
Bobby V’s Restaurant and Sports Bar has been created
alongside the existing gaming facility, will set new standards
for watching sports while dining. At a cost of over $3.5 million,
the 300-seat restaurant and sports bar features a 17-by-10-foot
LED TV alongside 70 other large screens, a golf simulator,
private dining space and meeting room. An outdoor bar and
patio will open in the spring. It boasts custom furniture made
with many natural and salvaged materials.
The restaurant and sports bar was designed and built by
Sportech, the organization that owns and operates OTB venues
in Connecticut, and continues the investment made during
the three years since Sportech entered Connecticut. Sportech
has invested $10 million in upgrading many of the locations.
With the hiring of new staff at the restaurant and sports bar,
Sportech’s workforce in the state will increase to about 370
employees.
Bobby Valentine, a Stamford native, brings well-rounded
experience to the table. Best known for his Major League
Baseball career as a manager of several teams and currently
athletic director at Sacred Heart University, Bobby is an
experienced restaurateur.
“I’ve been talking to Sportech for a while and I like what they
have done since buying the Connecticut operation,” Valentine
said. “They’ve invested huge sums of money to raise standards
and create new concepts, and I’ve enjoyed working with them
to design something we are all proud of. There’s nothing like it
up here in Southern New England and I’ve not seen a screen as
impressive as this outside Vegas. You’re going to have to see it
to believe it!”
Ted Taylor, Sportech’s managing director said, “It’s
great to be partnering with Bobby, whose experience and
personality make him a natural partner. We wanted to create
a groundbreaking concept for sports entertainment, and the
restaurant looks fantastic.”
Sportech Venues holds the exclusive license to conduct offtrack pari-mutuel wagering on horse racing, greyhound racing
and jai alai in Connecticut. The company operates 15 off-track
and sports bar wagering venues under the brand Winners, in
addition to an account wagering service that offers telephone
wagering on racing and jai alai.
Introducing WindsorLocksHistory.org
WINDSOR LOCKS — The Windsor Locks Public Library
has introduced a new online resource for local history buffs.
WindsorLocksHistory.org, created by the library staff, features
links to digitized and online content related to Windsor Locks
and Connecticut history.
For example, more than 1,000 local families and individuals
were profiled in “Cabbages and Kings with Jack Redmond,” a
popular Windsor Locks Journal column for 25 years. Author
Jack Redmond donated his entire “Cabbages and Kings”
collection to the library in 2002 and it is now available in
digitized format.
The website, a work in progress, also offers links to digitized
books and to the Windsor Locks History Group’s online
collection of pictures, tributes, books, and memories (organized
and maintained by Jerry Dougherty). In addition, links to
several online Connecticut history resources are featured.
The library welcomes comments and suggestions about the
site. Please call the library at 860-627-1495.
6 w THE AIRPORT NEWS w 2014 QUARTER 1
The New England Air Museum’s first Open Cockpit Day of
2014 will be Sunday, Jan. 19. (Photo courtesy of NEAM)
Museum sets Open Cockpit Day
and a plastic scale-model show
WINDSOR LOCKS — The New England Air Museum will
hold its next Open Cockpit Day on Sunday, Jan. 19. Visitors
will be permitted to climb into the cockpits of up to 12 vintage
aircraft, a full-motion flight simulator and two static flight
simulators.
The aircraft to be open include the famous P-47 Thunderbolt
of World War II, the North American F-100 Super Sabre, a DC-3
airliner, and several helicopters.
As an added feature, the Wings & Wheels Modelers Club will
present a plastic scale-model show featuring hundreds of model
airplanes, military vehicles, figures, ships, and cars. There will
be ongoing demonstrations by modelers who will be working on
and building models throughout the day.
There also will be hands-on activities for younger visitors.
A food vendor will be serving sandwiches, snacks, and hot and
cold drinks. The event will be held inside the museum’s three
large, heated display hangars.
The museum will be open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission
is $12 for visitors 12 and older, $11 for seniors 65 and older, $6.50
for children 4 to 11. Children under 3 are admitted free.
Open Cockpit Day is also being planned for Feb. 16 and March
16. The museum is planning special activities for the week of
Feb. 17, which is a school vacation week in many towns.
Wings & Wheels, a nonprofit organization affiliated with the
International Plastic Modelers Society, is open to anyone with
an interest in modeling. The club holds an annual contest,
ValleyCon, in Chicopee, Mass. Meetings are on the first
Wednesday of the month at 7 p.m. at the First Congregational
Church in West Springfield, Mass.
The New England Air Museum is the largest aviation
museum in New England and is a private, nonprofit educational
institution that was organized in 1959. Three hangars and an
outdoor display contain more than 80 aircraft with permanent
exhibits that include the oldest surviving aircraft in the U.S. —
the 1870 Silas M. Brooks Balloon Basket.
The air museum is owned and operated by the Connecticut
Aeronautical Historical Association and is governed by a
volunteer board of directors, with four full-time employees, 18
part-time employees, and more than 175 volunteers.
The museum is at 36 Perimeter Road (off Route 75) on the
north end of the Bradley International Airport airfield. For
more information: www.neam.org, (860) 623-3305, or Facebook
at New England Air Museum.
w Longer reach
Continued from Page 1
Looking ahead, Dillon sees possibilities of more West Coast
connections, likely to San Francisco and San Diego, saying the
airport needs more nonstop service west of the Mississippi
River.
CAA also plans to enhance Bradley’s eastern route structure
by targeting markets like Raleigh, N.C., and Columbus, Ohio.
The major milestone for the CAA remains a year-round
international flight to Europe, Dillon said. Bradley hasn’t had
one since Delta ceased its Amsterdam nonstop in 2008.
“That would elevate us in a way that we would be viewed
as a true international city,” said Oz Griebel, CEO of the
MetroHartford Alliance. “That has been on the top of our list
for awhile.”
Dillon hopes to start international charter service out of
Bradley to Europe in 2014, hopefully paving the way for regular
commercial service thereafter.
Despite the L.A. nonstop and the dropping fares, Dillon said
the single biggest accomplishment of 2013 was the CAA taking
over full control of Bradley and the state’s five general aviation
airports.
Even though the state legislature created the CAA board
in 2011 and Dillon was named executive director in 2012, the
process of transferring control of the airport from the state
Department of Transportation wasn’t complete until July 1.
“The fact that the airport is a separate agency is the singlemost important thing that happened in 2013,” Griebel said.
Since launching in 2011 and taking over complete control in
2013, the CAA has prioritized making Bradley more market
responsive and customer-service oriented.
That plan includes adding more concessions and shops to the
two concourses at the airport, Dillon said. As of Jan. 1, Bradley
has 21 different concessionaires.
“We want to focus not only on national brands, but we also
want to focus on local brands,” Dillon said.
High-end electronics concession InMotion Entertainment has
come to the concourse used by Southwest, Delta, and JetBlue.
A similarly themed, currently unnamed store will open later at
the concourse used by American, United, and U.S. Airways.
In November, Bradley added a frequent parker program with
credit-card billing so business and leisure travelers who use
the airport regularly will have less hassle in using the parking
facilities. In the first month after the launch, the frequent
parker program had 800 enrollees, said John Wallace, an
airport spokesman.
“We really want to be known for our level of customer
service here at the airport,” Dillon said.
In August, Dillon said the CAA will begin demolition of the
old Murphy Terminal, which sits adjacent to the current active
terminal. The completion date of that project, which includes
realigning the roadway, still is undetermined.
“That terminal is right on the front door of this airport, and
for many travelers, the front door of Connecticut,” Dillon said.
Griebel said the MetroHartford Alliance and the Greater
Hartford business community have been pleased with the
progress made by the CAA since its inception, noting the strong
leadership of Dillon and CAA Chairwoman Mary Ellen Jones.
“The team that has been assembled at the airport is secondto-none,” Griebel said. “It has put the airport in a solid position
for the future, and a lot of people in the private sector are
behind it.”
For more of the Hartford Business Journal’s coverage of
Bradley, visit www.HartfordBusiness.com.
150
1864 – 2014
Hometown Banking for YOUR Generation
Celebrating 150 Years as Your Hometown Bank
Buying a Home?
Refinancing?
We Have Great Rates!
Our Gift to You …
$150 off Closing Costs!
Contingent on approval
Equal Housing Lender
Member FDIC
Domestic-international
transportation Brokers
U.s. cUstoms BonDeD warehoUsing
anD clearance availaBle
air & ocean services at
competitive rates
Providing Connecticut, Massachusetts
and Rhode Island with Overnight
Transportation to and from
New York,
New Jersey Piers,
and Pennsylvania,
Warehouses
and Airports
call (203)
878-1603
or FaX (203) 878-5431
193 BriDgeport avenUe, milForD, ct 06460
2014 QUARTER 1 w THE AIRPORT NEWS w 7
(Photos by Marissa Carole Dembkoski)
Bradley Family Day fundraiser is Not-So-Snooty
By Robin Lee Michel
For The Airport News
Melissa and Brian Gatesman, who live in the Albany, N.Y.,
suburb of Colonie, N.Y., had an unusual route when they took
their holiday-time trip to New York City. Instead of heading
directly south, they drove 120 miles east. Their first stop was
Windsor Locks to take part in the Not-So-Snooty, Beer, Wine
and Cheese Tasting Adventure. This year, Bradley Family Day’s
event at the New England Air Museum was held Nov. 22.
The fest, sponsored by JetBlue Airways, benefits the Hole
in the Wall Gang Camp, a program founded in 1988 by actor
Paul Newman to give seriously ill children ages 7 to 15 the
opportunity to experience camp with fun, friendship and
spirit of childhood. The Hole in the Wall Gang Camp also
offers family programming and brings outreach activities to
hospitalized children unable to attend camp. The first camp
opened in Ashford, and there are
now 15 camps collectively known as
SeriousFun Children’s Network in
the United States and abroad. Each
year, more than 20,000 children and
family members use the services — all
provided free of charge.
“We first came six years ago because
the proceeds go to a good cause,”
Brian Gatesman said. Since that time
they have seen many more breweries
and wineries showcased. “The food
is spectacular and the service is
unbelievable. We feel spoiled,” he said.
The couple had reservations to stay in
one of the high-end hotels near Bradley
International Airport and then were
heading the next morning to New York City for shopping and
sightseeing.
Kathy Maznicki, who is one of the fundraiser’s founding
committee members, said the affiliation between the Bradley
Family Fun Day organization and the Hole in the Wall Gang
Camp began 13 years ago when a camp board member suggested
involving the Bradley International Airport community in
supporting the good cause. At first the family day was exactly
that: an open house to give the public the opportunity to see
aircraft up close. Even though the family event has been phased
out, the name remains, and two fundraisers — the wine and
beer fest, and a breakfast — continue.
More than 450 guests mingled in the air museum’s two
8 w THE AIRPORT NEWS w 2014 QUARTER 1
main indoor exhibit areas to sample wine, beer and food,
while listening to live jazz by the Pratt & Whitney Screamin’
Eagles. They also browsed the displays, tried flight simulators
and viewed the collection of authentic and replica aircraft
representing aviation history from pioneers to the jet age.
North Granby resident Deborah Zanella said she was quite
impressed by and pleased to be at the event for the first time.
“I’m really surprised with the variety of the collection,” she
w See Fundraiser, Page 9
w Fundraiser
Continued from Page 9
said as she viewed a display about the role the Polish Air Force
played in World War II. “I never knew about this,” she said,
referring to the little-known history.
Maria Angelita Gomez, director of annual giving for the Hole
in the Wall Gang Camp, said the air museum was an exciting
venue. “This event is in the top 15 percent of our fundraisers.
It’s terrific how the committee has taken ownership of our
mission. It’s great to have them for advocates,” Gomez said.
The venture would not be possible if not for all the corporate
sponsors and fleet of volunteers, Maznicki said. This year’s
major raffle prizes included roundtrip tickets (JetBlue),
overnight stays (five different hotels) and women’s basketball
tickets (Signature Flight Support). Executive Cuisine Catering,
of New Milford, which caters food for private jet customers,
served an extensive array of hot and cold delicacies.
“JetBlue has been a proud supporter of the Hole in the
Wall Gang Camp since we launched our service from Bradley
Airport in November 2010,” said Ronda Ivy McLeod, manager
of regional marketing for JetBlue. “We have a longstanding
commitment to supporting the people, places and events that
matter most to the communities we serve, and we are proud to
support the good work of the Hole in the Wall Gang Camp.”
Maznicki said she expects future Not-So-Snooty, Beer,
Wine and Cheese Tasting Adventures to continue to grow in
popularity and attendance. “We don’t advertise. It’s all word
of mouth,” she said. “It’s a nice night out. And benefits a
wonderful cause.”
North Haven, CT
203-239-5351
Agawam, MA
413-789-4537
Is your Cargo weighing you down?
Let Summit Handling Systems help you with
all your material handling needs.
Authorized Dealers for:
ToyoTa •Taylor • Drexel • UniTeD Tow TracTor
2014 QUARTER 1 w THE AIRPORT NEWS w 9
Aerospace manufacturers turn out for Airbus
By Hugh McQuaid
CTNewsJunkie.com
Connecticut aerospace manufacturers and suppliers packed
a conference room Monday, Dec. 9, to network with Airbus, a
France-based aircraft giant that spent $5 billion in the state last
year and is looking to expand.
More than 80 aerospace companies met with Airbus
representatives at a conference at the Sheraton Hartford Hotel
at the Bradley International Airport. Most in attendance had
operations in Connecticut.
David Williams, the procurement vice president for Airbus
Americas, said Airbus was spending $10 billion in the U.S.
in 2010 and was seeking to double that amount by 2020. That
could mean a lot of new business for the aerospace industry in
Connecticut.
“Clearly, Connecticut is right at the top of the list,” he
said. “It’s a huge opportunity for Airbus and the Connecticut
aerospace industry to be a big part of the doubling of our
spending. That’s why we’re here today, to find even more
supplies and technology to take part in that growth.”
U.S. Sen. Richard Blumenthal said the company’s growth
plan has the potential to greatly benefit Connecticut’s
manufacturers. He said he hoped to see Airbus double its
business in the state to the tune of $10 billion.
“It’s an enormously successful and important company
for the whole world but particularly for Connecticut because
we have a growing and vibrant aerospace industry here,”
Blumenthal said.
Kevin Flanagan, of Glastonbury-based Flanagan Industries,
said the conference with Airbus representatives gave his
company an opportunity to grow his business beyond jet engine
work.
“We’ve been doing work with the Pratt & Whitneys and GEs
of the world. This will allow us to hopefully get on board with
the Airbus and the Boeings,” he said.
Despite icy road conditions Monday morning, the Airbus
conference was well attended. Anne Evans, Connecticut district
director for the U.S. Commerce Department, said the conference
was at its room capacity.
“It sold out in days. It was amazing. This is what Connecticut
companies need and wanted right now,” she said.
Airbus’ planned expansion also comes as the state’s defense
manufacturing industry is bracing for possible cuts to federal
defense spending. Blumenthal said he believes that key military
programs for Connecticut, like submarine construction and the
F-35 fighter jet program, will be preserved.
Connecticut manufacturers gather at the Sheraton on
Dec. 9 to network with Airbus. (Photo by Hugh McQuaid)
“But some of the other defense contracting may be reduced,”
Blumenthal said. “There’s no question that the commercial
market will be more important than ever for many of our
aerospace partners.”
Williams said Airbus has eight years of guaranteed orders
and Connecticut is well positioned to continue supporting
the company. However, he said Connecticut’s potential share
of the planned expansion remains to be seen. Currently, only
Ohio outpaces the state with regard to the amount of work its
businesses do for Airbus.
“But it is a competitive environment. It’s a growth industry,
so people all around the world look at the opportunity and I
think everybody wants a piece of the pie,” Williams said.
Blumenthal agreed, saying the company had a global
presence and can do business where ever it chooses.
“That’s a great advantage for Connecticut because we
produce the best,” he said. “If the competition is global, we’ll
be neck and neck ... Not every contract, not everywhere, but I
think a level playing field is good for Connecticut.”
Asked if he wanted to second Blumenthal’s assertion that
Connecticut produces the best products, Williams pointed to the
business Airbus already does with companies in the state.
“We spend $5 billion here,” he said. “That’s a stronger
statement than any words.”
Reprinted with permission from CTNewsJunkie.com. This
story has been modified from its original version. See the original
at CTNewsJunkie.com.
Businesses rank road congestion as state’s top transportation issue
Overcrowded highways and roads are the top transportation
concern for Connecticut businesses, according to a survey
released Dec. 12.
The 2013 Connecticut Transportation Survey found that
business leaders ranked transportation third — behind
economic development and education — for desired state
government spending priorities.
More than half of survey respondents (55 percent) identified
highway improvements and expansion as providing the biggest
benefit to the state’s residents and businesses, followed by
improving and expanding rail systems (20 percent).
The survey was produced by the Connecticut Business
& Industry Association, Stamford Chamber of Commerce,
Connecticut Construction Industries Association, and Motor
Transport Association of Connecticut. The survey was
sponsored by UIL Holdings Corp.
10 w THE AIRPORT NEWS w 2014 QUARTER 1
“This survey measures the increasingly negative impact
of the state’s outdated transportation infrastructure on the
state’s residents, businesses, and economic vitality,” said
CBIA economist Pete Gioia, speaking at the 2013 Connecticut
Transportation Summit in Stamford.
“While the state has made some important first steps in
addressing these challenges, it’s very clear that considerable
work remains.”
James P. Torgerson, president and chief executive officer
of UIL Holdings, called for improvements to the state’s
beleaguered transit system.
“Connecticut’s economy will continue to stagnate unless we
invest in improving connectivity both within the state and to
the New York City and Boston metropolitan areas,” he said.
“More and better transit options will support economic growth
and improve quality of life.”
Please call for corrections at 203-317-2308 - after 5 pm call 203-317-2282
Ad#:POPS 82 Pub:S&R Date:07/04/15 Day:SAT Size:7.75X10 Cust:RJ/MFK Last Edited By:EALLISON on 7/8/13 8:38 AM. Salesperson:
Tag Line: Color Info:
POPS 82 - Composite
Our Best
Customers Are
Fast Food Employees
Burger making is an art. Each of
our burgers are grilled to order.
That’s the reason we don’t have a
drive thru window either. Perfection
takes times.
That’s our promise to you. It’ll be
the best seven minute wait of your
life.
Our Pop wouldn’t have it any
other way. His name is on the sign.
It’s our sign of pride. A constant
reminder of our heritage. We think
of it as the gold standard for
burger lovers everywhere.
Call Ahead And Avoid The Wait
And our fries are equally singular
in freshness, quality and taste.
Our fries are cut from farm fresh
potatoes each morning by hand.
One potato at a time. Then they
are timed cooked to perfection in
their skins in natural peanut oil.
Nothing less would pass our
standards nor would complement
our burgers better.
We invite you to try them.
POPS 82
Not all hamburgers are created
equal. Nor are the fries that
compliment them.
We have tested and re-tested
our burgers, drawing from an old
family recipe to add the right
amount of the right spices to bring
out those taste tempting flavors
that tantalize as well as satisfy.
Our burgers are made fresh
each day. Every day. No
exceptions. Nothing is ever frozen.
Ever. This insures that every
burger is the best you can buy.
That’s why we don’t have any
freezers.
Open Everyday
11:00 AM - 9:00 PM
979 Meriden-Waterbury Turnpike | Plantsville, CT 06479 | 860-426-9998 | www.popsburgersandfries.com
2014 QUARTER 1 w THE AIRPORT NEWS w 11
Allen named general manager
for Sheraton Hotel at Bradley
Homewood’s assistant manager
named a Star of the Industry
Waterford Hotel Group has announced the promotion of
Christopher Allen to general manager of the 237-room fullservice Sheraton Hartford Hotel at Bradley Airport, located in
Windsor Locks. The hotel is owned by R.K. Bradley Associates,
a partnership between affiliates of Konover Hotel Corp., the
hotel’s asset manager, and Waterford Hotel
Group, which operates the hotel.
Allen boasts more than 25 years of
food, beverage and hospitality experience,
and as general manager for the Sheraton
Hartford will oversee all operational, sales
and administrative aspects of the property.
He joins the Sheraton team from his most
recent role as director of operations for
the 285-room Mystic Marriott Hotel & Spa,
where he oversaw the rooms and food and
beverage departments of the hotel. Before
Allen
joining the Mystic Marriott, Allen served
as resident hotel manager for the Boston
Cambridge Marriott in Massachusetts, as well as food and
beverage director for several properties, including the Marriott
Seaview Resort & Spa in New Jersey and the Statler Hotel
& J.W. Marriott Executive Education Center at the Cornell
University School of Hotel Administration in Ithaca, N.Y.
Allen holds a certificate from the Executive Education
General Manager’s Program at the Cornell University
School of Hotel Administration, a bachelor’s degree in hotel,
restaurant and travel administration from the University
of Massachusetts, and an associate degree in occupational
sciences-culinary arts from Johnson & Wales University in
Rhode Island. He resides in Medford, Mass.
The Sheraton Hartford Hotel is located inside the
Bradley airport complex, with an elevator from the indoor,
underground 300-car parking garage providing direct access
to the hotel and Bradley International Airport terminals.
The Sheraton has been renovated to include new bedding,
bathrooms and amenities. On-site amenities of the 10-story
hotel include a concierge floor and lounge, an indoor swimming
pool and complete exercise facility, high speed Internet access,
15 meeting rooms, a full-service restaurant, lounge, Starbucks
Café, and grand ballroom to accommodate meeting and banquet
functions up to 400 people.
Waterford Hotel Group operates 29 properties in eight
states, representing more than 3,500 total rooms and nearly
700,000 square feet of meeting and convention space. For more
information, visit www.waterfordhotelgroup.com.
Michael Johnson, assistant general manager of the
Homewood Suites by Hilton inWindsor Locks, has been
honored as Outstanding Manager of the Year by the
Connecticut Lodging Association in its annual Stars of the
Industry event.
Excerpts from the
nomination letter from Lisa
Crinella, general manager of
the local Homewood:
“A little over ten years
ago, the Hilton family
gained an invaluable team
member in Michael Johnson.
… Throughout the years,
Michael has demonstrated
all of the qualities one
aspires to possess in the
industry in which we
work. His dedication, hard
work, optimistic nature,
and exemplary level of
professionalism truly make
him a power of example
to those around him. He
often goes beyond ‘the call
of duty’ to see to it that his
staff, management, and most
importantly, the guests of
his hotel, experience the best
Michael Johnson, assistant
experience possible.
general manager of
“Michael’s leadership
Homewood Suites by Hilton
qualities are truly ones to be
in Windsor Locks, is the
admired — his intelligence,
CLA’s Oustanding Manager
dependability, flexibility and
of the Year.
loyalty make him a pleasure
(Photo courtesy of
to work with and his joyous
Homewood Suites)
personality is contagious. He
is truly interested in all of
our lives. Never does a day go by where he is not asking about
our children, husbands, wives, sports teams etc. He knows
something about everything. He truly defines hospitality
and warmth. Michael has been a wonderful co-leader and coworker, one whom we all look to on a daily basis for the extra
motivation required during the heavy waves of check-ins,
diplomatically handling the tougher guest issues, and of course
handling all of the unforeseen issues associated with managing
a successful hotel property.
“This Columbus Day sold out weekend exemplifies Michael’s
commitment to guest satisfaction. We were sold out with over
80 hockey rooms of 16-18-year-old hockey players. They needed
special meal services. Our sales department coordinated an
outside caterer to prepare and serve Saturday and Sunday
night’s meals for the teams. However, with a days notice the
caterer had an emergency and cancelled on the teams. The team
coordinator called the hotel frantic. MJ and his wife decided to
do the catering themselves. They shopped, prepared and served
both Saturday and Sundays meals. Did I mention the hotel oven
broke so they had to prepare the chicken parmesan at their
home? …”
Homewood Suites by Hilton, at 65 Ella Grasso Turnpike in
Windsor Locks, has 140 exterior entrance suites and is 1½
miles from Bradley International Airport. The hotel serves
complimentary full breakfast daily, in addition to a full hot
dinner and beverages Monday to Thursday from 5 to 7 p.m. The
hotel offers shuttle service 24 hours per day to and from the
airport in addition to locations in an 8-mile radius.
Sheraton donates to arts center
On behalf of the associates of the Sheraton Hartford Hotel at
Bradley Airport, the Waterford Group Charitable Foundation
and Konover Hotel Corp. recently donated $1,000 to the Windsor
Arts Center. Sam Hinckley, secretary and board member for
the arts center, was on hand to accept the donation, made in
support of the center’s visual and performing arts programs.
The donation included money raised by the Sheraton
associates.
The Sheraton team has been a loyal supporter of the Windsor
Arts Center for many years, hotel officials said, noting that it is
important to support the organizations in the community.
Windsor Art Center presents visual art exhibitions and
music performances year-round, showcasing artists from
throughout New England and beyond. Artist talks, demos and
children’s activities round out seasonal programming. There is
no admission charge to visit the gallery. For more information,
visit www.windsorartcenter.org.
12 w THE AIRPORT NEWS w 2014 QUARTER 1
WE MAKE
LEARNING FUN
Since 1972, we have educated hundreds of
local children with our academic based learning
programs for three-year and four-year olds.
Childhood is a magical time of discovery
that sets the foundation for a lifetime of
learning and achievement. We believe
that nursery school is a joyful place to
learn, where individual differences are
recognized and accepted. We are dedicated
to providing a caring and supportive
environment for each child.
Our curriculum follows the National Association for
the Education of Young Children guidelines and is
designed to assist in all areas of your child’s
development. We believe that young children learn best
by doing. Through our activities, your child will be
encouraged to develop good feelings about
themselves, their classmates and school,
and will attempt new experiences.
We concentrate on physical development, emotional
development, social development and cognitive
development. Music, science, math, movement,
field trips, stories and pre-reading
concepts are incorporated
into our daily themes.
Enrollment for our programs is
now being accepted. Call for more
information or an appointment to
visit us to see for yourself.
The foundation of the
future is built today.
CALL TODAY.
860-675-0200
FELC FALL SPECIAL 09
315 Plainville Avenue • Route 177 • Unionville, Connecticut 06085
www.farmingtonearlylearningcenter.com
2014 QUARTER 1 w THE AIRPORT NEWS w 13
Sayers elected to leadership role
with Women In Government
State Rep. Peggy Sayers (D-Windsor Locks, Windsor) has been
elected a 2014 state director with Women In Government by her
fellow state legislators.
The state directors help ascertain important issues in their
states so that Women In Government can
tailor programming to these needs.
“Continuing to work with legislators
from other states brings the best ideas
to Connecticut,” said Sayers, a deputy
speaker of the House.
“In my expanded leadership role I look
forward to making some best practices the
standard here in the state.”
Rep. Sayers is in her seventh term
serving the 60th House District in Windsor
Locks and Windsor.
Sayers
Women In Government provides
conferences with expert speakers on a
variety of public policy topics and their impact on states.
Topics include health care reform, diabetes, emerging issues
in energy policy, cervical cancer prevention, the current
status of women in state legislatures, childhood obesity, public
health, economic security and opportunities, and many others.
These meetings also provide attendees with the opportunity
to network with colleagues across state borders and share best
practices and experiences to advance successful public policies.
Women In Government Foundation is a national, nonprofit,
nonpartisan organization of women state legislators. Women In
Government serves 1,791 women who serve in state legislatures
from across the country.
STR8TS
Suffield unveils new town website
SUFFIELD — The town has rolled out a new website at www.
suffieldtownhall.com, making information that’s available to
the public more navigable and user-friendly.
The redesign features a simpler layout, with tabs for various
town services, education, and business at the up top. A bit
lower, residents can go directly from the front page to view
tax information, agendas, meeting minutes, and the latest
announcements.
“We hope it becomes a widely utilized website. We want to
make sure people know about it and want to use it,” said Town
Planner Bill Hawkins, who along with Building Inspector Ted
Flanders, spearheaded the implementation of the new website.
The website, developed by Waterbury-based QScend
Technologies Inc., cost about $13,000, town officials said.
QScend Technologies also developed the last version of
Suffield’s website in 2006, Hawkins said.
— Journal Inquirer
Movie trivia
Medium
1
5
3
4
The Procaccianti Group announced that it has completed
the renovation and conversion of the former Sheraton East
Hartford Hotel. The property was rebranded the Holiday Inn
East Hartford after a six month, multimillion dollar renovation.
The hotel will be managed by TPG Hospitality.
“Our guests will see dramatic changes throughout the
entire hotel inside and out from our new exterior facade
and porte-cochere to the welcoming new lobby. Each of the
215 guest rooms have undergone complete floor-to-ceiling
transformations that deliver all the modern amenities travelers
demand,” said Johan Liebenberg, general manager of the new
hotel.
The public areas have received significant upgrades. The
hotel boasts over 8,500 square feet of function space which
has also been updated with new audio-visual equipment and
scalable technology.
SUDOKU
Medium
2
TPG opens Holiday Inn East Hartford
9
8
3
6 1
2
9
3
9 8
2
7
1
7 3
8 4
3 7
5
4
2
8
How to beat Str8ts –
Like Sudoku, no single number 1 to 9 can repeat in any row
or column. But... rows and columns are
divided by black squares into compartments. 2 1
4
Each compartment must form a straight 6 4 5
a set of numbers with no gaps but it can be
4 5
in any order, eg [7,6,9,8]. Clues in black cells
4 3 6 2
remove that number as an option in that row
and column, and are not part of any straight.
3 5 2 1
Glance at the solution to see how ‘straights’
2 1 3
are formed.
14 w THE AIRPORT NEWS w 2014 QUARTER 1
© 2011 Syndicated Puzzles, Inc.
8 6 9
3 2
2 8
7
5
3 2
2 1
1 5
4
6
1
9
5 6
4
2
© 2011 Syndicated Puzzles, Inc.
8
To complete Sudoku, fill the board by entering
numbers 1 to 9 such that each row, column and 3x3
box contains every number uniquely.
For many strategies, hints and tips,
visit www.sudokuwiki.org for Sudoku
and www.str8ts.com for Str8ts.
If you like Str8ts and other puzzles, check out our
books, iPhone/iPad Apps and much more on our store.
1. What was the name
of Michael Douglas’
character in “Wall
Street”?
a. Michael Murphy
b. Gordon Gekko
c. Steven Taylor
2. What city must a movie
play in to be eligible for
an Oscar?
a. New York
b. Chicago
c. Los Angeles
3. Which Angelia
Jolie movie did not
receive a Golden Globe
nomination?
a. “Changeling”
b. “Lara Croft: Tomb
Raider”
c. “A Mighty Heart”
4. Who was the first
female to direct a movie
that took in over $100
million?
a. Nora Ephron
b. Barbra Streisand
c. Penny Marshall
Teaching old dogs new tricks at
Bradley Air National Guard Base
By Tech. Sgt. Joshua A. Mead
103rd Airlift Wing, Public Affairs
Armed with 220 million more scent receptors than humans,
a detection dog can make short work of sniffing out dangerous
threats and drugs. They could probably even smell what
you had for last night’s dinner which, if true, would be very
impressive. Nevertheless, man’s best friend has been by our
sides since our earliest days and still continues to prove her
worth in our modern times. In order to utilize this highly
specialized creature, however, their masters must find the time
and place to train them and teach them to put their unique
skills to use.
The Connecticut Air National Guard satisfied this training
requirement by hosting the Connecticut State Police and
allowing them to train state and municipal K-9s and their
handlers.
According to Trooper First Class Mike Real, a K-9 unit
trainer with the Connecticut State Police, anywhere they train
that is new is beneficial. It’s like with humans, if you go train
in the same place and with the same routine it gets stale. A
new environment is challenging and provides a more realistic
training for the dogs.
Most recently, the K-9 unit trainers have been recertifying
handlers and their narcotic detection dogs, but there are also
plans in the future to bring in bomb detection dogs or even
patrol dogs to train.
The uniqueness of this situation may not be apparent right
away, but the according to Real, it is not always easy finding
a place that allows you to bring a number of working dogs.
Especially, police working dogs.
“Utilizing a military installation is fantastic because it’s hard
to find places that we can bring 12 dogs to. And, some people
are afraid of dogs, it’s just not always easy. So, when Sergeant
Smith offered, we jumped on it,” said Real.
Additionally, the nature of a military installation brings new
challenges for police canines and their handlers; specifically
with foreign smells and small explosives. The canines must be
aware and learn to separate various foreign smells such as JP-8
fuel from other accelerants or discharged ammunition powder
from actual explosive material.
Since 9/11, there has been an increasing need for state and
local emergency services to work together. This relationship is
another way that the National Guard can forge alliances and
build teamwork with local authorities.
“Working together with our local first responders enhances
our relationships prior to crisis. Recent examples include the
use of Connecticut National Guard state activation during
floods, snow storms and hurricanes across the state. Another
example; the recent Boston marathon bombing exemplifies
civilian first Responders, and law enforcement working with
the National Guard during domestic terrorism,” said Lt. Col.
James Guerrera, 103rd Airlift Wing antiterrorism officer.
Understanding who will provide support during a crisis or
emergency, knowing their leadership and responsibilities/
limitations, and our role during Military Support to Civilian
Authorities improves with exercises and training collaboration.
In line with collaborative efforts, if the base ever needed to
utilize the State Police bomb-detection or narcotics dogs, the
familiarity gained by training the K-9 dogs and handlers on
Bradley can expedite the response and help bring the situation
to a speedy resolution, said Real.
TSA PreP expands to the military
Delta wins Business Travel News Survey
As the result of the ongoing partnership with the
Department of Defense, the Transportation Security
Administration has extended TSA PreP expedited screening
benefits to all service members of the U.S. Armed Forces.
Service members, including those serving in the U.S. Coast
Guard, Reserves and National Guard, will be able to enjoy the
benefits of this expedited screening program at more than
100 participating airports, including Connecticut’s Bradley
International Airport, when flying on nine major U.S. airlines.
If a service member has entered their DoD identification
number correctly in a flight reservation, they will be permitted
access to TSA PreP lanes. The expedited screening will allow
service members to keep their footwear on as well as light
outerwear, laptop in its case and their 3-1-1 compliant liquids/
gels bag in a carry-on in select screening lanes. More than
30 million passengers have experienced TSA PreP since it
launched in October 2011.
Further information on TSA PreP for military members can
be found at www.tsa.gov and www.defensetravel.dod.mil.
Corporate travel managers rated Delta Air Lines No. 1 in
this year’s Business Travel News Annual Airline Survey for the
third year in a row. The airline ranked first among all carriers
in nine of 10 categories, scoring high in key areas of the survey
including: Value of Relationships with Account Managers and
Sales Representatives; Quality of Airline Communications; and
Networks, Airline Partnerships and Frequencies.
A dog handler from the Connecticut State Police searches
for narcotics with the assistance of a trained law
enforcement working dog during K-9 re-evaluation and
training at the Bradley Air National Guard Base, East
Granby. (Photo by Senior Airman Emmanuel Santiago)
Str8ts Solution
2
1
7
6
3
2
1
3
4
6
8
9
7
5
4
3
2
1
5
6
8
9
7
3 1 7
5 8 6
9 8
2 3
1 7 2
9 5 3
7 4 1
8 6
6
Sudoku Solution
8
9 7
7 5 6
6 7
3 4
4
1
5 3 2
2 1
1 2 8
4
8
6
9
1
3
2
7
5
7
9
1
5
4
2
8
3
6
2
3
5
7
6
8
4
1
9
1
6
2
3
5
4
9
8
7
9
5
4
1
8
7
3
6
2
3
7
8
2
9
6
1
5
4
8
2
9
6
3
5
7
4
1
6
4
7
8
2
1
5
9
3
5
1
3
4
7
9
6
2
8
Trivia
answers
1. b
2. c
3. b
4. c
2014 QUARTER 1 w THE AIRPORT NEWS w 15
BEST DAILY NONSTOP FLIGHT:
BRADLEY TO LAX
Book at aa.com/la
16 w THE AIRPORT NEWS w 2014 QUARTER 1