2 Guilford Employees Honored For Contributions To Playground Projects

GUILFORD, CT — First Selectman Matt Hoey has named Guilford Public Works Director David Castro and Parks Supervisor Anthony Annicelli as recipients of the Guilford Employee Recognition Award for their efforts on recent park improvement projects.

The awards recognize outstanding achievement and performance by town employees. Castro and Annicelli were nominated by Parks and Recreation Director Pam Gery for their work on the Bittner Park and Jacob’s Beach playground renovations.

According to Gery, the Parks crew led by Annicelli carefully disassembled the existing playground structures so that the materials could be donated to children in Guatemala.

"Tony and the Parks crew went above and beyond," Gery said in an announcement. "Tony's crew took on this extra work with care and commitment, extending the life of these materials in a meaningful way and bringing joy to children across the globe."

Gery also commended Castro and the Public Works team for their role in the projects.

"Dave and the Public Works crew were equally instrumental," she said. “They removed a total of 130 steel playground poles from both sites—an operation that required large-scale machinery and expert handling. In addition, they prepped both areas by removing old mulch, adding fill, and laying crushed stone to properly prepare the base for the new installations."

She added that their efforts saved the town thousands of dollars in potential contractor fees and ensured both projects were completed on time and to a high standard.

"I am extremely proud to work alongside individuals who demonstrate such pride in their work and such dedication to our community," Gery added.

Annicelli began working for the town in July 2004 and became parks supervisor in January 2014. Castro was appointed public works director in July 2022.

As part of the award, both received a certificate of recognition and a gift card presented by Hoey.

The Employee Recognition Award program was initiated by Hoey to encourage peer nominations for exceptional performance.