Blumenthal inaugurates Cornwall officials

CORNWALL — Sen. Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) swore in Cornwall’s newly elected officials at Town Hall Monday, Nov. 20.

“I’m here to say ‘thank you.’ Really, thank you to everyone who will serve in the next two years,” said Blumenthal. “You answer to people about the most important needs that government performs in their lives.” 

Board by board, commission by commission, 15 of Cornwall’s winners from the Nov. 7 election raised their right hands and swore an oath of service to the town. 

First Selectman Gordon Ridgway said, when Blumenthal called him and offered to lead the swearing-in ceremony, he responded by saying, “We don’t have a swearing-in ceremony,” to which Blumenthal said, “Well, we do now.”

“It is very much an honor that he hasn’t forgotten the small towns,” said Ridgway.

U.S. Rep. Jahana Hayes (D-5) and State Rep. Maria Horn (D-64) joined the gathering as well.

Hayes said that the last time she was in Cornwall Town Hall, she “learned how to square dance.”

She addressed the group, “When I see you and I feel you encourage me and you remind me that you’re paying attention, it’s like a hand to my back that holds me up.”

Horn praised Cornwall’s voter turnout (55.1%) compared to low levels across the rest of the state (33.2% statewide). “People here pay attention. They show up,” said Horn. “A tiny town like Cornwall punches way above its weight.”

Attendees mingled with the officials while nibbling on cheese and crackers provided by the Cornwall Association. 

“If you make it a tradition, I’ll be back,” said Blumenthal.