Sharing the good news with my favorite, Willie Nelson, in March 2000 aboard his bus.
by Alexis Ann
So… 20 years ago, almost to date, I published the inaugural edition of the Resident Good News! From the start, I emphasized PEOPLE and COMMUNITY. Quoted in the local papers, “It’s like a local ‘People’ magazine… It’s fun and entertaining — no Saudi Arabia, no politics and lay-offs.” “We will have something for everyone from ages 18 to 102.”
And so, it is today, ALL about people doing good things in our two-state region sprinkled with premier dining choices that ROCK page 12. Thank you for sending in your votes for your favorite restaurant! Entertainment is featured by Mohegan Sun on the back cover and our free listings for non-profits in Across the Area. A big thanks to local businesses, like Cardinal Honda and Grader Jewelers that you see featured regularly in Residents In Biz. Oh, and, don’t forget about Fripperies’ ads. And, Valenti’s back in offering a special discount to Resident readers who clip the $500 coupon. Golf Tips, Antiques, Stars ‘N Stripes, Adopt-A-Pet, Hollywood and your favorites Lifestyles, Intimacy and MORE!
Yes! My dream was to keep the phones ringing with businesses eager to buy advertising in a regional community publication. “We think we are offering them something they can’t get elsewhere—inexpensive, cost-effective advertising.”—NOV. 1990.
A GIANT THANK YOU, FROM THE HEART OF OUR RESIDENT TEAM, TO YOU, OUR READERS, OUR DISTRIBUTION SITES AND TO OUR ADVERTISERS FOR HELPING TO MAKE THE GOOD NEWS ROCK! SYNERGY AT ITS BEST!!!
(l-r) On Friday, October 15, Commander Mark Prokopius turned over command of the Virginia-class attack submarine, USS New Mexico (SSN 779) to Commander George Perez in a ceremony at the Naval Submarine Base New London’s Shepherd of the Sea Chapel.
story & photos
by Christopher Annino
The USS New Mexico (SSN 779) was commissioned on March 27, 2010 at the Norfolk Naval Base and is now officially a member of the fleet of the United States Navy. On Friday, October 15, Commander Mark Prokopius turned over command of the Virginia-class attack submarine to Commander George Perez in a ceremony at the Naval Submarine Base New London’s Shepherd of the Sea Chapel.
Cmdr. Prokopius has a very successful career both as a Naval officer and as a civilian. He holds a bachelors degree in Electrical Engineering from the University of Notre Dame and a Masters of Engineering Management degree from Old Dominion University. His personal awards include the Meritorious Service Medal (two awards), the Navy Commendation Medal (six awards), and the Navy Achievement Medal (three awards), as well as, various unit awards.
Cmdr. Prokopius also served as a member of the Atlantic Fleet Nuclear Propulsion Examining Board. “We are very proud of him and all of his accomplishments” said Kathy, his wife.
Cmdr. Prokopius added “It will be bitter sweet I will miss taking my crew to sea. I have nothing but positive to say about Commander Perez I wish him the best and I know he will do a tremendous job. The message I would like to leave to my crew is I would like them to continue to progress and move forward through adversity.”
Cmdr. Perez previously served as combat systems officer aboard USS Montpelier (SSN 765) and executive officer aboard USS Rhode Island (SSBN 740). He also commanded the Provincial Reconstruction Team in eastern Afghanistan’s Nuristan Province, where he served with both the 101st and 82nd Airborne Divisions in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. Perez most recently served as the current operations officer for the Navy Region Southeast.
“I am looking forward to taking command of the USS New Mexico it is a challenge that I am looking forward to. For right now the ship will be in the boat yard for the next few months for maintenance and repairs” said Cmdr. Perez.
During the celebration Cmdr. Prokopius received the meritorious service medal. The award is for, Prokopius advancing the New Mexico and her crew to the leading edge, and for it to be the first Virginia-class submarine to be fully certified in all tactical war fighting areas during Weapons System Acceptance Testing. Rear Admiral Michael McLaughlin was the guest speaker at the event and commented on Prokopius’s tenure as the Commanding officer of the USS New Mexico.
Lt. Cmdr. Sean Stein and his wife, Nina, share the traditional first kiss during the homecoming of USS Pittsburgh on October 15.
story & photos
by Christopher Annino
On October 15, Commander Michael Savageaux safely led his 13 officers and 121 enlisted sailors safely home to the open arms of their friends and family waiting at the Naval Submarine Base New London. The USS Pittsburgh (SSN 720) was commissioned November 23, 1985 and is the fourth-Navy vessel to be named for Pittsburgh, PA. The USS Pittsburgh, a Los Angeles-class attack submarine, uses its stealth, persistence, agility and firepower to deploy and support special force missions.
“It is great to see all the families today and it is nice to come home, I am very proud of my men and what we accomplished,” said Commander Savageaux.
The Pittsburgh departed for deployment on April 1 and conducted operations in the European Command area. It also supported with missions vital to national security interests. Some of the ports visited were in Scotland, Norway, France, and England.
Machinists Mate 1st Class Zachary Shafer holds his daughter, Jesse, for the first time during the USS Pittsburgh homecoming at Naval Submarine Base New London. Jesse was born while the Los Angeles-class submarine was deployed.
Alexis Ann, editor & publisher, the Resident, gives copies of the paper and 20th Anniversary tote bags to avid Resident readers at the Groton Fall Festival on October 9th. Over 900 locals visited the Resident booth for their very own eco-friendly tote!
The Mystic Fire Department gives fire hats, stickers and safety tips to children in honor of Fire Prevention Month.
The AVCRAD, Groton-New London Airport, Blackhawk helicopter is always a favorite among kids, young and old.
Over 4,000 people attended the Groton Fall Festival sponsored by the Groton Business Association of the Greater Mystic Chamber of Commerce.
After decades of cracking jokes, wearing clown makeup and helping others, comedian and the “Resident Clown,” Joey Russell died Saturday, September 26 at the age of 90.
