Senator Kissel Speaks at Governor Ella T. Grasso Appreciation Day

State Senator John A. Kissel (R-Enfield) spoke today at Governor Ella T. Grasso Appreciation Day, which honored the life and leadership of Governor Grasso, the first female governor elected in her own right in the United States. The event was held at 11 AM in the Old Judiciary Room in the State Capitol on the 25th anniversary of Governor Grasso’s passing.

“As someone who grew up in Windsor, I was well aware of Governor Grasso, who was from just one town away in Windsor Locks, and the tremendous impact she had on our portion of the state and Connecticut as a whole. She truly put North Central Connecticut on the map, and it has been my privilege to serve her hometown of Windsor Locks for the past 14 years,” said Senator Kissel. “Whenever I enter the Windsor Locks Town Hall and see the beautiful large portrait of Governor Grasso I am reminded of what an honor it is to represent the wonderful people of Windsor Locks in our State Senate.”

Senator Kissel spoke about the honesty and integrity Governor Grasso brought to her years in public service. Grasso was elected Governor in both 1974 and 1978, which followed a 12-year stint as Connecticut’s Secretary of State and two terms in the U.S. House of Representatives.

“Governor Grasso set a tone and standard for honest and ethical public service that all elected officials in Connecticut strive to live up to,” added Senator Kissel. “It was an honor to speak at today’s event and to join many others in celebrating her life and contributions.”

Senator Kissel also acknowledged the organizers of today’s event.

“I would like to thank the many people and organizations who helped plan this special day honoring this very special woman. I would like to especially thank Secretary of State Susan Bysiewicz for inviting me to speak at today’s event. She did a wonderful job,” concluded Senator Kissel.

Senator Kissel is a Deputy Minority Leader and the Ranking Senator on the Judiciary Committee. He serves the seventh district communities of East Granby, Enfield, Granby, Somers, Suffield, Windsor, and Windsor Locks.