Sorrentino’s service cause for recognition

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Beacon Falls First Selectman Christopher Bielik, right, presents former Selectman Dominic Sorrentino with a certificate of recognition Nov. 9 for his years of public service. –LUKE MARSHALL
Beacon Falls First Selectman Christopher Bielik, right, presents former Selectman Dominic Sorrentino with a certificate of recognition Nov. 9 for his years of public service. –LUKE MARSHALL

BEACON FALLS — After nearly 40 years of service to the town, Dominic Sorrentino is retiring from public life.

Sorrentino, 70, began serving Beacon Falls in 1976 on the Board of Finance.

“Helen Mis asked me if I would be interested in doing something and it was just an automatic yes,” Sorrentino said.

Since that time Sorrentino has served on numerous boards and commissions, including the Board of Selectmen, the Parks and Recreation Commission, the Economic Development Commission, the Inland Wetlands Commission, and the Safety Committee.

Sorrentino served as a selectman the past two years, but did not seek re-election in November.

“I enjoyed it,” said Sorrentino about public service. “I felt like I was doing good for the community. I always wanted it to be a better place.”

Sorrentino still plans to volunteer with the Riverbend Park Committee, which is trying to enhance Riverbend Park.

First Selectman Christopher Bielik presented Sorrentino with a certificate of recognition Nov. 9 for his years of service.

“Dominic has shown by example his love for his country, the town of Beacon Falls, and his family. He deeply cares about this community, respects the land, and proves this through his actions every day,” Bielik said.

Among Sorrentino’s many accomplishments is helping to start the now-annual Family Day and Cardboard Boat Race Regatta.

“He saw his efforts, and those of many other volunteers he inspired, come to fruition,” Bielik said. “We will remember what a fine gentleman and a community-minded person Dominic has been. Wherever a commitment was needed, Dominic always stepped up to the plate.”

Board of Finance member Joe Rodorigo, who helped start the Cardboard Boat Race Regatta with Sorrentino, said he started volunteering in town because of Sorrentino.

“Dominic has been a great asset to the town,” Rodorigo said. “It’s truly been a magnificent effort by one individual to represent the town of Beacon Falls in such a professional manner. We are going to miss him.”

Sorrentino said he was thankful for the chance to serve.

“It’s a great honor and a privilege to serve,” Sorrentino said. “I’m grateful for all the residents of Beacon Falls and how they supported me throughout the years.”