By Laura Bailey
In 1919, Albert Rockwell donated land and construction costs for a new high school to adorn the ornamental landscape of Memorial Park Boulevard. A century after its construction, the iconic art deco building is opening its doors to scholars once more on Monday.
“This building represents the tapestry of stories and experiences woven across time and generations,” said Dr. Michael Dietter.
Dietter, the Deputy Superintendent of Schools, has served on the BAIMS Building Committee for the past four years. He joined fellow committee member John Lodovico for the flag raising.
“This school is beautiful, and the theater is magnificent,” said Mayor Jeffrey Caggiano. “I’m very hopeful that it will shine for another 100 years.”
It is evident when there is a passion and a purpose and pride; people can work together to create great things,” said Dr. Catherine Carbone.”
“It was personal commitment of mine to design and deliver this project,” said Frank Tomcak, Downes Construction project manager. “It’s something everyone can be proud of.” A Bristol resident, Tomcak spoke of his personal ties to the city and the construction of BAIMS.
BAIMS architect Angela Cahill’s speech was interrupted by the arrival of actors portraying Albert and Nettie Rockwell.
“That’s part of the vision that we had for this project,” said Cahill, “so that the courtyard could be used for performances.”
Q+AM architect Angela Cahill and Dr. Michael Dietter are surprised by the arrival of Mr. and Mrs. Rockwell. | Laura Bailey
The Rockwells asked for a tour of the school before heading over to the Rockwell Park Summer Festival.
The ceremony concluded with words of gratitude to all of the many people and organizations that made BAIMS possible. John Smith, building committee member, presented Dietter with a construction-vest-motif bowtie to match his dapper style.
All TBE readers, supporters and donors
The Bristol Edition will be limiting the number of stories non-members and free readers may access each week. This decision is based on our financial projections and, most certainly, to remind people that TBE is serious about providing accurate, timely and thorough reporting for Bristol. To do this we have devised a financial support structure that makes unlimited access extremely affordable, beginning with a $6 monthly donation.
- Non-members will be able to access eight (8) articles per week.
- Free readers and people who have subscribed by email will be able to access eight (8) articles per week.
- Donors and financial supporters will have unlimited access as long as they log in.
Note: Donors may have to contact TBE if they find they are being limited, since we will need to set up a membership account for you. Email editor@bristoledition.org for instructions. Sorry for any inconvenience. People with financial difficulties may write editor@bristoledition.org to be considered for free access.
