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| By Lori O'Brien Correspondent CHICOPEE Chicopee Electric Light (CEL) will once again host its popular Big Truck Day on Oct. 13 to kick off its participation in national Public Power Week festivities. Public Power Week is an annual event that celebrates the benefits of hometown, community owned electric utilities, according to Bonnie Lemanski, CEL's HR/Office Manager, and co-coordinator of this year's event. Lemanski is being assisted by Natalie Colberg, but stressed that the entire event is a collective effort by all of CEL's employees. "CEL, serving approximately 26,000 customers, operates to benefit the entire community, as well as to provide safe, reliable power and high quality customer service, all at low rates," Lemanski said, adding, "our theme this year is 'Going Green.'" Lemanski noted that CEL will feature its new hybrid vehicle as part of the festivities, as well as seek service input ideas from customers who in turn will have a chance to win prizes. Big Truck Day, now in its seventh year, is planned from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Knights of Columbus on Granby Road. As in years past, a variety of vehicles from the city's police and fire departments will be on display, as well as from several city and state departments. In addition, volunteers, vehicles and equipment from local companies will participate in the event, including Teddy Bear Pools, Chuck's Towing and Charter Communications. "Big Truck Day is a way of showing our appreciation to our customers," Lemanski said. This year, highlights of the event will include appearances by Smokey Bear and Buddy Bright, as well as free refreshments and face painting by the Chicopee High School cheerleaders. Many giveaways are also planned throughout the family event. For more information on Big Truck Day activities, contact Lemanski at (413) 598-8311 or via e-mail at blemanski@celd.com. |