CT- U.S Harbor Map
State Sen. Ted Kennedy Jr. (D‑12th District) has been working with Branford Public Schools through Superintendent Hamlet Hernandez to initiate an essay contest that will produce the new name for “Negro Heads,” a navigational buoy marker and rock outcropping landmark in Branford Harbor.
The buoy and rocks are located southeast of Maltby Cove in the Indian Neck section of Branford. The site was originally named more than 100 years ago. U.S. Sen. Richard Blumenthal joined Kennedy in requesting the state to change the name. The change requires approval of both federal and state agencies, including the U.S. Geological Survey.
Late last year, Kennedy called for the buoy to be renamed. Connecticut’s State Geologist Margaret Thomas responded that she and Connecticut’s Department of Energy and Environmental Protection are eager to see that happen.
The contest will be open to all high school students who reside in Branford, including those attending regional magnet, parochial, or private high schools. The winning essay will be chosen by a team of Branford residents. The committee is in the process of being formed, but will include Superintendent Hernandez, Jane Bouley, the Branford Town Historian, and Branford Community Foundation President Stephanie Farber.
“This essay contest presents us with the opportunity to take something negative and turn it into a positive, learning experience for Branford high school students,” said Kennedy. I challenge Branford’s students to think hard and come up with a name that will make our community proud. I can’t wait to hear what our young people come up with.”
“This takes a real world issue and engages students in a purposeful writing assignment,” Hernandez said.
The winning essay will be announced by the end of the academic year. The author will receive a $500 scholarship from the Branford Community Foundation.
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Personally, I think the new name should be racially neutral. What if we put a foghorn on it and rename it "Honky Rock"?