By Bill Riccio, Jr.
Voice Editor

The city ended fiscal year 2009 in the black – just barely. The bad economic times put the city’s hopes of halving its $4.8 million deficit on hold as it ended the year only $30,000 on the plus side.

The casualty of less-than-expected collections in current levies and back taxes, the deficit remained at its pre-2009 level, where it was expected to be just over $2 million.

The news came just before deadline this week as city auditors, McGladry & Pullen, issued its report. Mayor John Picard called it a snapshot of the economic times, and while not happy the city squeaked by in black ink, he attempted to remain upbeat.

Saturday Jan.16 marked the 10th annual West Haven Icy Plunge for the Cure. More than 230 people braved the frigid water of Long Island Sound raising a reported $42,000 in support of breast cancer research.

Among those taking part in this year’s mid-winter swim were 17 young hockey players from the West Haven Youth Hockey Pee Wee B Travel Team. The catalyst behind this brave group of 11- and 12-year-olds was Hunter Cole.

For several years Cole had asked his parents, Bill and Jennifer, both long-time supporters of the event, if he could take the plunge; this year they finally relented and he received their permission. Hunter’s next step was to get as many of his hockey buddies as he could to join him. So after one early season practice he approached his teammates about taking the plunge with him. He didn’t have to ask twice; the team, players and coaches alike, responded with unanimous enthusiasm and immediately began their fundraising efforts.