Bridgeport - Two firefighters have died in the line of duty while battling an afternoon house fire in Bridgeport Saturday. At least three other firefighters were treated and released. A solemn Mayor Bill Finch spoke at a news conference Saturday night.

Governor Rell's Statement on Deaths of Bridgeport Firefighters

Governor M. Jodi Rell today has directed that U.S. and Connecticut flags be lowered to half-staff in honor of Bridgeport firefighters, Lt. Steven Velazquez and Michel Baik, who died Saturday in the line of duty. Flags will remain lowered until sundown on the day of their funerals, which have not yet been set.

The Governor, who spoke with Mayor Finch last night to offer support and condolences, issued following statement:

"The deaths of Lt. Steven Velazquez and Firefighter Michel Baik are heartbreaking reminders of the dangers our brave first responders face every day when they answer a call for help. My thoughts and prayers go out to their families and to their fellow firefighters."
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On The Town – F2 Tornado Slams Bridgeport

by Jocelyne Hudson-Brown

BRIDGEPORT – An F-2 tornado touched down in Bridgeport and left a path of destruction in its wake. Hardest hit was the Hollow, the East Side and the East End which represent a large amount of Latino and African-American residents.

As with most severe weather episodes the aftermath is most always peaceful, serene, a glorious day. I guess its nature’s way of softening the blow for those who have been hit the hardest. Now begins the agonizing part, being descending upon by the media, politicians, and Lookie Lous whose presence in their part of town is usually reserved for, well, other things. Getting through the red tape to get assistance or worse still sitting on their stoops waiting for such not knowing where to turn. See Full Story!
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BRIDGEPORT – The Bridgeport Police Department (BPD) pulled out the welcome wagon and invited everyone who is interested to become a police officer. The SWAT team showed up, along with surveillance vans and mounted police. Yes, they served coffee and donuts.

Hundreds of potential candidates accepted the invite to the Police Training Academy, the hip-hop crew, Gen X’ers, biker types and the conservatives. Young and some a bit older, men and women alike, all claiming they have the strength, the intellect and the determination to stand up to and pass the required tests. All seeming to have only one real agenda, “to help people”.

Training Academy OIC Lonnie Blackwell says, “We are looking for a diverse group of candidates”. Female Asst. Chief Lynn Kerwinn feels strongly that “Our police department should look like the community we serve”. See Full Story!
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