The Cheshire Jaycees: Community Leadership and Civic Celebration in the 1980s
- Richard Smith
- Feb 5
- 11 min read
Updated: Mar 11
( This will be the end of my series on the Cheshire Jaycees as Ron Gagliardi is writing a self published book which should be an entertaining and informative read. Also it leave us on a high note, please let Ron know of any names or information you want him to know. elgaggo@aol.com )
During the 1980s, the Cheshire Jaycees stood at the heart of civic life in Cheshire, Connecticut, playing a defining role in community celebrations, youth programming, and public service initiatives. Working closely with the Cheshire Department of Parks and Recreation, the Jaycees consistently delivered events that brought residents together while strengthening the town’s social fabric.
One of the most cherished annual traditions was the arrival of Santa Claus at the Harmon Leonard Youth Center. Each year, Santa made a memorable entrance—often by fire truck—before greeting children in a carefully transformed winter wonderland. With the assistance of local volunteers, costumed characters, and “elves,” children met Santa individually while others explored a petting zoo, interacted with Frosty the Snowman, Snoopy, and reindeer, or enjoyed holiday music and decorative scenes. The Jaycees provided lollipops and hosted free raffles for stuffed animals, dolls, and, in one particularly notable year, three brand-new bicycles.
The Teen Action Committee, composed of Dodd Junior High School students, played a vital role in
these holiday efforts. They helped convert the Youth Center into a North Pole complete with an igloo and moving polar bear, and dressed as elves to escort children through the festivities. Jaycee member Geoff Primus, organizer of the event, noted that Santa had been visiting for approximately seven years and that attendance was expected to reach nearly 600 visitors over two days.
Beyond holiday celebrations, the Jaycees were instrumental in marking major civic milestones. Cheshire’s 200th anniversary was commemorated with a Bicentennial Ball at the Waverly Inn, sponsored by the Cheshire Jaycees. Entertainment included live music by The Satellites, a four-piece orchestra performing upstairs in the Crystal Room, while disc jockey Barry King Tuttle entertained guests in the Saratoga Room. Reservations for the event were coordinated through Jaycee members Dave Stewart and John McCann.
Fundraising and infrastructure development were also central to Jaycee efforts. Poinsettia sales held at the Youth Center helped fund the expansion of the picnic pavilion at Cheshire Park. The completed pavilion was later formally turned over to the Town of Cheshire, providing a lasting space for family picnics, concerts, and festivals. Concert programming flourished as well, including performances such as the New York Jazz Four, presented as part of a Parks and Recreation and Jaycees-sponsored summer concert series that encouraged residents to bring blankets and chairs for relaxed outdoor entertainment.
The Jaycees’ commitment to civic improvement extended to recognition and leadership development. The organization sought nominations annually for its Distinguished Service Award, as well as honors for Outstanding Educator, Policeman, Fireman, and Farmer. Nomination forms were made available through members including Steve Durkee and Kevin Ross.
Their reputation for excellence was affirmed when the Cheshire Jaycees were ranked the number one chapter in Connecticut, based on community projects, public relations, and leadership training. High-ranking initiatives included the Haunted House, Special Olympics, Community Attitude Survey, and Community Carnival, along with leadership programs such as CPR training, financial planning, public speaking, and legal seminars—some of which received national recognition.
Service to Humanity: The Enduring Legacy of the Cheshire Jaycees
The Cheshire Jaycees were more than event organizers—they were a proving ground for civic leadership and a lifelong network of service-minded individuals whose influence extended across generations. Rooted firmly in the Jaycee creed, particularly the belief that “service to humanity is the best work of life,” the organization consistently demonstrated that principle through action.
One of the Jaycees’ most visible community attractions was the annual Haunted House at the Watch Factory on Academy Road. Saved from scheduled demolition by the Jaycees three years earlier, the building was remodeled into a six-room haunted house of horror. Brothers Rick and Jeff Smith explained the careful balance required in designing the first room: frightening enough for older children, yet welcoming enough for younger visitors. The haunted house charged a one-dollar admission, with proceeds directed toward community projects. Radio station WKCI (KC101) broadcast live from the site, as confirmed by Jaycee public relations director Ken Wilson. A trick-or-treat event for all ages was also held at the Old House behind the Watch Factory Mall, with refreshments served and parents encouraged to accompany younger children.
Charitable outreach was a defining hallmark of the organization. Programs such as “Santa Around Town” ensured that donated toys reached needy children throughout Cheshire, as well as area hospitals and a battered women’s shelter in Waterbury. Jaycee Erin DesBiens and Chris Stewart coordinated donations, while Frank Smith famously delivered gifts dressed as Santa Claus. Proceeds from the Easter Bunny Lunch—where families shared hot dogs, carrots, chips, and brownies—benefited the Muscular Dystrophy Association, raising approximately $300 in one year with expectations for continued growth due to generous local business donations. Jaycee Diane Danard delighted children by appearing in costume as the Easter Bunny.
For the first time, the local Jaycee Chapter gave most of their collection to the needy of Cheshire. President Paul Montagna said after discovering a need for holiday giving in their own town, we decided to discontinue our joint efforts with the Meriden Jaycees. " We are gearing it more to Cheshire since we have found a lot more people in Town in need than we thought." Jaycee Erin DesBiens said the club will accept donated toys which will then be wrapped and delivered a few days before Christmas. Any extras will given to children in area hospitals and a battered women's shelter in Waterbury.
The Cheshire Jaycees held their annual Las Vegas Night at St. Bridget's Church to benefit Paul Newman's "Whole in the wall gang" a camp in Ashford Connecticut for children with life threatening diseases. For more information readers were directed to contact Jaycees Shirley Mitchell or Beth Ross.
Support for inclusivity and athletics was demonstrated through the Jaycees’ long-running
involvement with Special Olympics. The annual area games included swimming and track-and-field events, with over 185 athletes registered in one year alone. Coordinated by Lynn Gainty, the event concluded with a picnic and dance at Cheshire Academy, drawing an estimated 600 attendees. Volunteers were encouraged to spend the entire day with their assigned athletes, often forming lasting personal relationships. A free picnic and entertaiment were offered to all at the conclussion of the games.
The Jaycees also sponsored relay races testing runners, cyclists, and swimmers, including a grueling course of a 4.5-mile run, 10.5-mile bike ride, and quarter-mile swim. The winning team—Tom Weimuller, Dave McKeon, and Lars Edeen—finished with a time of 61:14, outpacing 36 competing teams.
Civic engagement extended to governance and public service. Members such as Michael Pulisciano, recipient of the prestigious Statesman 207 Award, served on the Public Building Commission. Others—including David Borowy, Arne B. Solli, Kenneth D. Gertz Sr., James A. Nankin, Andrew Davis Coleman, Wayne Winters, and many more—went on to serve in leadership roles across town boards, commissions, and civic organizations.
The Jaycees’ impact was formally recognized by the Cheshire Town Council, which cited the organization for 33 years of service to youth and community life. Mayor Gilbert Leslie highlighted initiatives such as Special Olympics, CPR training, the town fair, the Fall Festival, holiday food baskets, and Senior Citizens Sunday.
From distinguished service awards honoring educators, firefighters, police officers, and senior citizens, to national conventions filled with camaraderie and humor, the Cheshire Jaycees left an indelible mark on the town. As Town Historian Ron Gagliardi later reflected, even as memories fade, the essence of the Jaycee creed remains clear and enduring: service to humanity is the best work of life.
Silly side notes from the Jaycee National Convention held in Hartford
The Cheshire Jaycees who were hosting the Colorado delegation found themselves in a dilemma. The State Liquor Commission ruled that the Colorado delegation could not offer their 600 cases of Coors beer at their booth as it exceeded the 5 gallon law of unlicensed liquor that a person could bring into the state. The accountants in the Cheshire Jaycees quickly went to work and concluded that it was only necessary to have 270 members to file the necessary paper work and the day was saved. In another note the owner's of Hartford's exotic lounges anticipated that the 8000 expected Jaycees would fill their business's. The interest in seeing exotic dancers never materialize and they were greatly disappointed. Little did they know that Jaycee's would much rather party in their rooms trading pins and memorabilia than go to Vegas style shows.
Remembering Those Who Served Through the Jaycees
Over the decades, the Cheshire Jaycees served as a foundation for civic leadership. Many members went on to hold influential roles throughout the community:
John and Christy McCann were celebrated by the organization for their decades of service, including their work on the Cheshire Jaycees Foundation, which provides scholarships and grants to local students and non-profits.
Jim and Pat McKenney have been long-standing members of the Cheshire Jaycees, an organization central to their community involvement since moving to Cheshire in 1971. He has served in various leadership and community volunteer capacities through the Jaycees as part of his broader commitment to the town. She has been "thoroughly involved" in town activities alongside Jim, including work with the Jaycees, for over 50 years.
Robert "Bob" de Jongh has a long history of leadership and service within the Connecticut Jaycees, an organization he has remained involved with since the early stages of his career.
Leadership Roles
State President: He served as the President of the Connecticut Jaycees for the 1982–1983 term.
Local Leadership: Before his state-level role, he was a member and leader within the Cheshire Jaycees, where he helped coordinate local community projects.
Key Contributions & Recognition
Community Impact: During his tenure, he was involved in significant community development initiatives across the state. The Southington Jaycees, a nearby active chapter, continues the tradition of leadership training and local service that was central to his leadership.
Life Member: He is recognized as a Life Member of the Junior Chamber International (JCI), often holding the title of JCI Senator, which is the highest honor bestowed upon a Jaycee for lifetime service.
Mike and Terri Segal are long-time residents of Cheshire, Connecticut, known for their extensive community involvement, particularly with the Cheshire Jaycees. Mike Segal served as a prominent leader within the Cheshire Jaycees (Junior Chamber of Commerce). He is a former President of the local chapter and eventually rose to become the President of the Connecticut Jaycees state organization.
David Borowy, a former Jaycee president and state board member, emphasized infrastructure improvements, recreational partnerships, and youth development during his tenure.
Arne B. Solli, a U.S. Army veteran, was an active Jaycee and JCI Senator, earning numerous awards for leadership and service.
Col. Kenneth D. Gertz, Sr. served as Jaycee president and was active in the Meriden Kiwanis Club and New Haven Elks Club.
David James Curran was a Jaycee member and active parishioner at St. Bridget’s Catholic Church, serving with the Legion of Mary.
James A. Nankin was deeply involved in the Jaycees, Cheshire Junior Football, and Special Olympics, and served as Chairman of the Cheshire Parks and Recreation Department.
Andrew Davis Coleman, an attorney, was appointed in 1981 by Governor Ella Grasso to the State Elections Enforcement Commission, serving 14 years, several as chairman, while remaining active in the Jaycees, Chamber of Commerce, and Cheshire Gridiron Club.
William J. Lacourciere served on numerous boards, including Friends of the Children’s Hospital at Yale–New Haven, chaired Parks and Recreation, and was a past Jaycee president.
Wayne Winters, owner of Winters and Winters Law Firm, was active in the Jaycees, coached Cheshire Youth Baseball, and served on boards at The Farms Country Club.
Jim McKenney was praised by Doreen Pulisciano, director of the Cheshire Senior Center, for decades of commitment to community service, education, and leadership, including overseeing senior center renovations in 2000.
Steve and Betsy Durkee were lifelong Cheshire residents, with Betsy serving as past president of the Cheshire Woman Jaycees and remaining active in church and community music programs.
Selina McArdle became the first recipient of the Junior Senior Citizen of the Year Award for her continued advocacy for Cheshire seniors.
Joseph F. Barba served on the Public Building Commission and was honored with the Jaycees’ Distinguished Service Award.
Arthur D. McMellon Sr. was a Jaycee member, multiple-term Kiwanis president, and a Master Craftsman Freemason.
Christine Stewart, Class of 1974, was recognized with multiple honors including the U.S. Jaycees Senator Award and the Cheshire YMCA Community Service Award.
Howard and Joanne Peters, longtime Jaycees supporters, celebrated 50 years of marriage and continued volunteer service in Cheshire.
Peter Davis has served as a past president of the Cheshire Jaycees and has been heavily involved in managing the Cheshire Fall Festival, which is one of the town's largest annual community gatherings.
Jeanie Lentini-DeSantis
(also known as Jeanie Quigley Lentini-DeSantis) is a long-standing resident of Cheshire, Connecticut, where she has been deeply involved in community life. She is recognized for her long-term activity with the Jaycees, a leadership and civic organization.
John Milton served as a Jaycee officer and held leadership roles across zoning, education, and parent–teacher organizations.
Bruce and Jan Saulnier were highly active, long-term members of the Cheshire Jaycees, contributing significantly to the organization's local and international presence. Bruce Saulnier's Leadership: Bruce was a prominent figure in the group, eventually being honored as a JCI Senator (1986) by Jaycees International. This is one of the highest honors in the organization, typically awarded for exceptional life-long service.
Frank and Linda Smith were active in the Jaycees in both Connecticut and Washington State.
Dr. Andrew James Brock, former Jaycee president, worked 35 years at Olin Corporation before retiring in 2002.
David Veleber, a former Jaycee president, served on numerous boards including the Zoning Board of Appeals and Housing Authority.
Other notable Jaycee leaders included James V. Lauber, co-founder of the Cheshire Junior Football Program, and Edward R. Ulozas, who later served as Cheshire Council Chairman/Mayor. Additional members such as Paul Bowman, David Schrumm, Ron Butler, Vincent Lentini, Paul Fournier, Stacey Wood Betts, Jeanie Q. Lentini-DeSantis, Jack and Shirley Mitchell, Margie Montagna, Ronald Gagliardi, John Sturgess, Mike Pulisciano, and Ray Stewart played key roles in shaping civic life.
Through leadership, service, and mentorship, the Cheshire Jaycees provided generations of residents
with the skills and commitment that strengthened both the organization and the town it proudly served.
James Cook post:
Sounds like a great idea Reggie! I enjoyed my time as a Jaycee attending three National Conventions. San Antonio, Phoenix and Hartford. Met many amazing people! My wife Dianne was also a member and was involved in Hartford 83.
Margie Montagna post:
The United States Jaycee Women joined with the US Jaycees creating one of the strongest and most vital leadership organizations in the country. Many married couples worked together as strong members of the organization. Cheshire was truly blessed to have one of the most active and committed chapters in the state. The Cheshire Craft Fair started by the Jaycee Women was held every fall was recognized as one of the best in the state. There were programs which donated to many charities, as well as benefiting our senior community, children, families and our entire community as a whole. Many Cheshire members went on to serve on the State and National Jaycee boards and committees. My husband and I served as local board members and as State board members. We always proud to work along side with Ray and Chris Stewart, Kevin and Beth Ross, Steve and Betsy Durkee, Doreen and Mike Pulisciano, Vin Lentini, Jeanie Lentini-Desantis,Ken and Ceil Wilson, Linda and Frank Smith, Paul and Kathy Doherty, Bruce and Jan Saulnier, Lori Rusnack , Peter Davis, Jack Pasquale, David Stewart, John Granatelli and so many more. These people became our partners, our friends, our family. Developing leadership skills through community service was our goal and we strived to give Cheshire our best. My hope is that The Cheshire Jaycees and all they gave to our town will never be dismissed or forgotten.
Some of the best projects we did for Cheshire were Special Olympics, the carnival , DSA awards, and the community attitude survey. These were of great benefit to our town. And of course many other projects we did over the years. We had one the very best, active , and largest chapters in the state. We received state and national recognition. And of course, we were like family. And made lifelong friendships. It was a wonderful time. Miss those days.
Other notable people of the Cheshire Jaycees, not yet mentioned:
John & Christy McCann
Steve & Gail Applebaum
Mike & Terri Segal
Jim & Pat McKenney
The Haunted House was another memorable and successful yearly project put on by the Cheshire Jaycees.
Don't forget the chase race! Bike, swim and run.
Ken Wilson Looks like you and Jack Mitchell did a lot with Special Olympics and youth programs.
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