SEYMOUR — The Seymour Democratic Town Committee held the Kennedy-Pawlak Awards Dinner on September 29 at Brookside Inn, Oxford. The event drew a crowd of DTC supporters as well as Lt. Governor Susan Bysiewicz, CT Democratic Party Vice-Chair Jimmy Tickey, and former Seymour First Selectman Paul Roy.
This year’s honorees were the late Colleen Fries, and Edward Strumello. Colleen was an attorney who practiced law at Bai, Pollock, and Dunnigan and later was a founding partner of Coyne, von Kuhn, Brady and Fries, LLC. In addition, Colleen served on the Board of Directors of Living in Safe Alternatives (LISA), an organization that offers alternative living situations for children and youth. Colleen was also vice president for Seymour Pink, Inc.
She was actively involved in the Seymour political scene and served as Town Attorney for eight years. She was an elected member of the Seymour Democratic Town Committee and was appointed for a short term to the Board of Police Commissioners. Fred Stanek, who currently serves on the Seymour Board of Selectmen, spoke on behalf of Colleen.
As a long-time educator, Ed Strumello began his career in the Ansonia school system, where he served as a teacher for multiple grades, and later as principal of Mead and Willis schools. Prior to his appointment as principal of Bungay Elementary School, Ed served as the Director of Athletics and PE. Ed is an alumni of the University of Connecticut, Fairfield University and St. Joseph’s College. On the local level, he is a long-time supporter of the Town of Seymour, including his service on the Board of Education, the Board of Assessors and the Seymour Recreation Commission. Joe Carrafiello, Seymour Middle School teacher, and Seymour High School boys’ basketball coach presented Ed with his award.
The Kennedy-Pawlak Award is given out by the Seymour Democratic Town Committee to an individual, or individuals, who exemplify the qualities and spirit of President John F. Kenney and former Seymour First Selectman Paul Pawlak.
The Seymour Democratic Town Committee is dedicated to fostering a vibrant, inclusive, and informed community by promoting democratic values, supporting progressive policies, and empowering citizens through civic engagement. Together, we aim to create a future where democracy flourishes, and every citizen can contribute to the betterment of our community.
