The week in photos – June 16, 2022

The West Haven High School Class of 2022 walked its way into history Tuesday night with ceremonies at Ken Strong Stadium with family and friends on hand to celebrate. Having a mix of traditional pomp and joyous whimsey, the most recent alums finished their high school careers, moving onto the next chapter in their lives.

The West Haven High School Class of 2022 walked its way into history Tuesday night with ceremonies at Ken Strong Stadium with family and friends on hand to celebrate. Having a mix of traditional pomp and joyous whimsey, the most recent alums finished their high school careers, moving onto the next chapter in their lives.

The West Haven High School Class of 2022 walked its way into history Tuesday night with ceremonies at Ken Strong Stadium with family and friends on hand to celebrate. Having a mix of traditional pomp and joyous whimsey, the most recent alums finished their high school careers, moving onto the next chapter in their lives.

The West Haven High School Class of 2022 walked its way into history Tuesday night with ceremonies at Ken Strong Stadium with family and friends on hand to celebrate. Having a mix of traditional pomp and joyous whimsey, the most recent alums finished their high school careers, moving onto the next chapter in their lives.

The West Haven High School Class of 2022 walked its way into history Tuesday night with ceremonies at Ken Strong Stadium with family and friends on hand to celebrate. Having a mix of traditional pomp and joyous whimsey, the most recent alums finished their high school careers, moving onto the next chapter in their lives.

The West Haven High School Class of 2022 walked its way into history Tuesday night with ceremonies at Ken Strong Stadium with family and friends on hand to celebrate. Having a mix of traditional pomp and joyous whimsey, the most recent alums finished their high school careers, moving onto the next chapter in their lives.

The West Haven High School Class of 2022 walked its way into history Tuesday night with ceremonies at Ken Strong Stadium with family and friends on hand to celebrate. Having a mix of traditional pomp and joyous whimsey, the most recent alums finished their high school careers, moving onto the next chapter in their lives.

West Haven Mayor Nancy R. Rossi delivers remarks.

Vietnam War Army veteran Al Beck Sr., right, and his son, Al Beck Jr., lay a wreath at the base of the William A. Soderman Memorial in Bradley Point Park during West Haven’s dedication of the 14th phase of the brick Veterans Walk of Honor on June 4.

West Haven resident Kim-Marie Mullin touches the Walk of Honor brick she purchased for her father, John J. Mullin, a Navy veteran who served as a torpedoman’s mate in Vietnam. Behind Mullin, Councilman Steven J. Johnstone, R-10, searches for the brick he purchased for his grandfather, World War II Army Staff Sgt. Frederick H. Johnstone.

An aerial view of the Walk of Honor ceremony.

Aaron Haley accepts his nomination for State Representative at the Republican Town Committee meeting

The West Haven Historical Society conducted its annual Open House as the headquarters, 686 Savin Ave. The emphasis this year was on teaching youngsters the history of the area, with a concentration on Native American contributions. The day included exhibits and games to make the learning fun.

The West Haven Historical Society conducted its annual Open House as the headquarters, 686 Savin Ave. The emphasis this year was on teaching youngsters the history of the area, with a concentration on Native American contributions. The day included exhibits and games to make the learning fun.

The West Haven Historical Society conducted its annual Open House as the headquarters, 686 Savin Ave. The emphasis this year was on teaching youngsters the history of the area, with a concentration on Native American contributions. The day included exhibits and games to make the learning fun.

ArtsWestCT ‘s Elinor Slomba is shown with Moises Vazquez.

Worshipful Brother Kyle Podpolucha, was named Annawon Lodge Mason of the Year. A ten-year member of Annawon, he served as Master of the Lodge in 2020. He is currently Vice President of the Blue Lodge Council and director of the Grand Lodge of Connecticut Child Identification Program, commonly known as “Chip.” The dinner and awards testimonies were held at Annawon Lodge and attended by dozens of well-wishers. Past Master Kyle Podpolucha is presented with the Annawon Lodge ‘Mason of the Year’ plaque by past recipient Past Master William Breen.

The city will celebrate its second annual Juneteenth Celebration this Saturday at Brent Watt Park, Tile Street in Allingtown. The festivities will take place between 11-2, and will feature entertainment, booths, and food. The headlining entertainment is the Nu Groove Band. Entry is free and for all ages. Juneteenth is a federal holiday in the United States commemorating the emancipation of enslaved black Americans. The event is being sponsored by the State Rep. Trenee' McGee (D-116) and the West Haven Seahawks.

Pagels students took part in an inter-district program, Healthy Minds, Healthy Bodies. A total of 44 third- and fourth-graders were part of the program.

Pagels students took part in an inter-district program, Healthy Minds, Healthy Bodies. A total of 44 third- and fourth-graders were part of the program.

On Wednesday, June 1st, Mackrille Elementary School dedicated its enclosed courtyard garden after former principal, now Assistant Superintendent, Judith Drenzek. Mrs. Drenzek spent the day at Mackrille planting with students in boxes created by Mr. Martin's WHHS woodshop class, while Mackrille students painted their handprints on the side. Each grade had its own box. Mrs. Drenzek started the garden 9 years ago when she was the principal, following a donation from the American Heart Association. The AHA provided Mackrille with several hundred dollars' worth of established plants, gardening equipment, raised beds, and soil. Mrs. Drenzek worked with teachers to incorporate garden work in science lessons and give students opportunities to water and monitor the crops. Students also helped harvest herbs and vegetables. Mackrille Principal Taryn Driend and staff have dedicated the garden after Mrs. Drenzek, which is now officially called ‘Judith Drenzek’s Teaching Gardings.’

Dad Stephen Shine comforts his child -- one of the many things fathers consider part of the vocation.

Jeff Hazell

The North Campus Gym will see a reconstruction and renaming for Hazell once completed.

The Scouts of Boy Scout Troop 802 gathered in the Hall at First Congregational Church where four of their number were awarded the rank of Eagle Scout. The ceremony was attended by local official Steve Mullins and State Representative Charles Ferraro, along with families and friends of the Scouts. Pictured above are Scoutmaster Steve Shine, Scouts Stefano Cono, Phillip Homburg, Alex Potter and Chris Leum, along with Rep. Charles Ferraro (R-117). Troop 802 meets weekly at First Congregational Church.

Gianni Gambardella throws a complete game 1-0 victory over Manchester, striking out 12 in the CIAC playoffs.

Juliana Petruzziello stretches to get the runner at first. The Westies made it to the third round of the CIAC Tournament before being ousted by top-seeded Danbury.

Briana Miller takes a lead from third base versus Newington.

The West Haven Youth Lacrosse team ended its regular season over the weekend. The team mugs it up following a successful jamboree showing.

Rocco Kelly mixes it up.