MBI 03/15/13

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Bee Intelligencer Informing the towns of Middlebury, Southbury, Woodbury, Naugatuck, Oxford and Watertown A FREE COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER

Volume IX, No. 11

Friday, March 15, 2013

Blaze levels home

By MARJORIE NEEDHAM A wind-driven house fire Wednesday, March 6, burned a Middlebury home to the ground, taking with it all the contents and one of the family’s cars. Fortunately, Frank and Leona Gaetano, their son Tommy, 31, and the family pets escaped without injury from their home at 381 Lakeshore Drive. Daughter Krystin, 26, lives away from home, and son Frankie, 23, was at college at the time.

As if the loss of all their personal belongings – clothing, linens, family photos, furniture and appliances wasn’t bad enough – Frank’s means of earning a living also went up in the blaze. He was running Quality Aire, an air duct cleaning and ductwork business, out of his home, and his air duct cleaning machines and tools for making ductwork all were destroyed by the fire.

Those who would like to help this family rebuild their lives will find several ways to lend a helping hand. A starting place is the Facebook page, https://www. facebook.com/pages/Supporti n g - t h e - Ga e t a n o - Fa m ily/151163061714852. A link in the top paragraph on that page takes you to a page listing the many ways you can donate. You can go directly to that page at http://bit.ly/XW5lb3. It is a site called “Sign-up Genius” that lists each item needed and tracks how many have been donated.

A link to make PayPal donations is there, too. However, PayPal deducts a fee from donations, so those who prefer can drop off checks or mail donations to The Gaetano Family Support Fund, c/o Naugatuck Savings Bank, 600

Middlebury Road, Middlebury, CT 06762.

Money for groceries can be donated at Dinova’s Four Corners Grocery Store, which is maintaining a house account for the family. Grocery gift cards to other area grocery stores also are welcome.

Other gift cards are on the list of needed items. The family can use gift cards to stores like K-mart, Target, Walmart and Bed Bath and Beyond to buy replacements for items they lost.

Perhaps the most poignant item on the list of needed items is photos. Anyone with photos of Gaetano family members is asked to share their photos with the family, who lost all their treasured photos in the blaze.

Donated items such as clothing and linens can be dropped at the Middlebury Congregational Church at 1242 Whittemore Road in Middlebury. Office hours there are 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Friday with a one-hour closing at lunch time.

Frank said the night of the fire he had gone outside with one of the dogs when he heard the smoke detector go off. “Thank God that went off,” he said. “I got Leona and the other dog and cat and went out the back door onto the deck. I tried to go down to the basement – there was too much smoke. I ran to the third floor. My son was on that floor. I let him know. By the time we turned to go down the stairs, the whole house was filled with smoke. We went down the stairs and out the front door.”

He said they put their pets in his truck and moved it onto the road. Then they realized the keys to Leona’s car were in the house,

Above: Homeowner Frank Gaetano, in the blue shirt, sifts through rubble in the burnt remains of his family’s home as he looks for items to recover. The family’s personal effects and his business equipment and records all were destroyed in a March 6 blaze.

(Marjorie Needham photo) Right: A Middlebury Police Department photo shows the Gaetano home fully engulfed in flames last week. but they couldn’t go back inside to get them. Her car was left in the driveway, and it also was destroyed in the blaze.

This is the second time the Gaetanos have been burned out at this address. The previous house burned in 1989, not long after they purchased it. “We knew it needed some work,” Frank said.

“We were going to renovate.”

In that fire, the family was away from home and returned to find the house ablaze. Frank said the fire marshal told him faulty wiring likely caused the blaze. The cause of this blaze will be determined by the state fire marshal, but Fire Marshal Jack Proulx said the wood stove in the -See Blaze on page 5

P&Z approves building plan, Quassy ride changes

By TERRENCE S. MCAULIFFE The Middlebury Planning and Zoning Commission (P&Z) at its March 7 meeting unanimously approved plans with conditions for Pilot Seasoning to construct a building on North Benson Road and for Quassy Amusement Park to substitute rides on its site plan.

It also accepted an application to allow alcoholic beverage service at Whittemore Crossing and set a special meeting to discuss the State Plan of Conservation and Development.

Waterbury’s Pilot Seasoning Company unanimously received a certificate of zoning compliance and a permit to begin construction of a new 15,600-squarefoot building on LI-200 zoned property at 68 North Benson Road across from Long Meadow Elementary School.

The excavation permit came with a stipulation for bonding and insurance as recommended in a letter by Town Engineer John Calabrese, and the site plan had further stipulations. During the public hearing, a letter from Town Planner Brian Miller recommended commissioners review architectural renderings of the building in their deliberations, and a letter from the Economic and Industrial Develop-

This rendering of the proposed Pilot Seasoning Company building by Bennett Sullivan Associates, Inc. was presented to the Planning and Zoning Commission at its March 8 meeting.

(Terrence McAuliffe scan) ment Commission (EICD) gave general approval to the building concept, but recommended improvements to the appearance since it was planned for a visible location often visited by the public.

Land Surveyor Curt Smith of Smith & Company used drawings

by Bennett Sullivan Associates of Southbury to illustrate the exter-

Inside this Issue Nuggets for Life.............. 6 Obituaries....................... 5 Puzzles........................... 7 Region 15 Calendar........ 3 Senior Center News......... 3 Sports Quiz..................... 6

Editorial Office: Email: mbisubmit@gmail.com Phone: 203-577-6800 Mail: P.O. Box 10, Middlebury, CT 06762 Advertising Sales: Email: mbiadvertising@gmail.com

Saturday Upcoming Events

Adoptable Pets................ 8 Classifieds....................... 7 Community Calendar....... 2 Fire Log........................... 2 In Brief............................ 2 Library Happenings.......... 2

March 16

sunday

March 17

Saturday

March 23

nal design, landscaping and building footprint of the pre-engineered metal building. He said production in the rear of the building would consist of mixing seasonings rather than manufacturing them.

Two 1,200-square-foot floors in the gabled front would contain offices and a place for sales to the public, with 15 parking spaces

providing more than enough capacity for seven employees and visitors. Two loading docks in back exceed the single dock required by regulations, with the second space to be used for a dumpster. The plan designates up to 6,600 square feet for future expansion. Smith said the building will utilize night-friendly lighting and will tie in to sewers,

gas and water services on the road. Excavation of 2,500 cubic yards of soil will cut from the property front and fill in the back.

Kevin Bennett of Bennett Sullivan Associates described changes made by his firm to improve the appearance of the building based on informal comments from First Selectman Edward B. St. John and from the EICD at its Feb. 26 meeting. He said the original white roof was now an earth tone, with other earth tones chosen for the building exterior, plus the addition of awnings, shutters, window treatments and a block base.

In public comments, real estate broker John Pollard and nearby Benson Woods residents Walter Jonsson and Louis Villamana said they supported commercial development, but asked for a front facade that didn’t look like a warehouse. Steve Savarese, a relative of an adjoining property owner, asked that disturbed stone walls be rebuilt and fencing added to mark the property line.

In new business, Quassy Amusement Park received unanimous approval to substitute a Mini Discovery ride for the Fun Slide ride on its previously approved site plan. Attorney Michael McVerry, speaking for Quassy, said the Fun Slide would

not fit well in the water portion of the park as previously approved.

In the revised plan, the Fun Slide would be eliminated, and the Mini Discovery ride would be installed next to the carousel in the area previously occupied by the old ticket booth. Quassy President Eric Anderson said the new ride would be all-electric and lower than 35-foot height restrictions.

In other new business, a public hearing for 1365 LLC d/b/a Whittemore Crossing to serve alcoholic beverages in a restaurant with patio dining was set for April 4. Attorney McVerry, speaking for 1365 LLC, told commissioners he will be asking for a waiver of most of the analysis reports required for a submission. He said the regulations allowed a waiver if commissioners agreed the reports were unnecessary.

A special workshop to discuss the State Plan of Conservation and Development and continue work on Middlebury’s Plan of Conservation and Development was set for Tuesday, April 2, at 7:30 p.m., but the location was not determined. The next regular P&Z meeting will be Thursday, April 4, at 7:30 p.m. at Shepardson Community Center.

Brass City Ballet Spring Gala When: What: Where: Cost:

6:30 p.m.

“Cinderella,” Silent Auction, Champagne Reception Naugatuck Valley Community College Tickets at Tututix.com or call 855-222-2849 or 203-598-0186

Happy St. Patrick’s Day! Church of St. Leo the Great Indoor Flea Market & Tag Sale

When: 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

What: 24 vendors, refreshments; to benefit church scholarship fund.

Where: 14 Bentwood Drive in Waterbury (off Pierpoint Road). For directions, call 203-574-9761.

Published weekly by The Middlebury Bee Intelligencer Society, LLC - 2030 Straits Turnpike, Middlebury, CT 06762 - Copyright 2013

Wednesday, March 20

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Middlebury Community Calendar Monday, March 18 Board of Selectmen 6 p.m...................................................Town Hall Conference Room Public Works Commission 7 p.m................................................................. Shepardson Room 4

Tuesday, March 19

In Brief Thrift Shop Hours Acts 4 Ministry announced their thrift shop at 1713 Thomaston Ave. in Waterbury is open from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. every Friday and the first Saturday of the month, Credit and debit cards are accepted, and all proceeds go to Acts 4 Ministry to serve those in need in the community. Call 203-574-2287 with any questions.

Commission on Aging 9:30 a.m.......................................................... Shepardson Room 26 Oxford High Musical Water Pollution Control Authority The Oxford High School Wolverine Play7:30 p.m.......................................................... Shepardson Room 26 ers are presenting the musical “How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying” Wednesday, March 20 Friday, March 15, and Saturday, March 16.

First Day of Spring This musical is a satire of big business and all it holds sacred.

Beautification Committee The Friday performance will be at 7:30 6:30 p.m.......................................................... Shepardson Room 26 p.m. and the Saturday performance will be Calendar dates/times are subject to change at 2 p.m. Tickets are $10 for adults and $8 If your organization would like your event included in the community for students and seniors. Tickets are available calendar, please e-mail the information to beeintelligencer@gmail.com at www.showtix4u.com or by calling Oxford High School at 203-888-2468.

Book Review

Lenten Services Thursday evenings through March 31, from 6:15 to 7:45 p.m., Hillside Covenant Church at 100 Hillside Avenue on the west side of Naugatuck will host Lenten soup suppers and a special Lenten program. For more information, call 203-729-2444.

“A Place at the Table: The Crisis of 49 Million Hungry Americans and How to Solve It” Edited by Peter Pringle (PublicAffairs, $15.99) Reviewed by Larry Cox America has truly become one nation, underfed.

Despite our bounty, 49 million people in the United States – including one in four children – go hungry every day. This is not because we as a nation do not have the means to provide nutritious, affordable food for all our citizens. Rather, it is a lack of innovation, proper planning and use of money.

During rough economic times, more and more people depend on food stamps and other safety-net programs. Even though times have gotten even tougher since the crash in 2009, many members of Congress are determined to slash or eliminate many of these vital programs in an effort to balance the budget. If the food stamps program is cut, one can only wonder what will happen to the 15 percent of Americans who depend on it. Even more shameful is that a country as wealthy as the United States has 49 million people going to bed hungry each night.

Salon and Barbershop at 344 Middlebury Road by the extended deadline of March 22.

In April, the “Princess and the Prom” nonprofit organization will provide prom dresses and accessories to any area high school girl who might not otherwise be able to afford one. For more information, call 203-7588899 or visit www.definingmomentsct.com.

Music Program for Kids Soulshine Arts invites parents or other caregivers and their infant, toddler and preschool children to an open house Saturday, March 16, from 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Tula Family Enrichment Center at 489 Middlebury Road in Middlebury. See demonstration classes of Music Together®, a parent/ child music and movement program developed by the Center for Music and Young Children in Princeton, N.J. Call 857-998-0780 to schedule a demonstration class time. Enjoy refreshments, door prizes and enter the grand prize drawing for $100 off tuition.

The registration deadline for the spring semester of Music Together classes is April 5, when classes begin. Classes will be held at Tula Family Enrichment Center. Call Leslie Pratt at 857-998-0780 for more information or visit www.soulshineartsct.com.

Indoor Flea Market & Tag Sale

to 3 p.m. Admission is free. Refreshments will be available. Proceeds will benefit the Scholarship Fund.

The church is at 14 Bentwood Drive in Waterbury (off Pierpoint Road). For directions, call 203-574-9761.

PHS 5K Run The Pomperaug High School (PHS) Class of 2015 is sponsoring the first “Run with the Panthers” 5K race Saturday, March 30, at PHS. Registration will be from 9 to 9:45 a.m., and the race will start at 10 a.m. The $25 entry fee includes a race tee-shirt. The 3.1-mile course will begin and end at PHS. All participants will be entered in a raffle.

Should cancellation be necessary, it will be posted on the PHS website.

For more information, contact Maegan Bollin at mbollin@region15.org or Marlanea Elsdon at melsdon@region15.org. For a signup form or a sponsorship form, go to www. region15.org and then to the PHS page.

Yarn Egg Surprise Participants in The Naugatuck Historical Society’s Colette’s Crafts program, Saturday, March 30, at 11 a.m., will make their own Easter eggs with a candy surprise in the middle. Registration is recommended, but not required. All are welcome.

The fee is $2 a person or $5 a family. For more information, call 203-729-9039, email naugatuckhistory@sbcglobal.net or visit www.naugatuckhistory.com. The society is at 195 Water St. in Naugatuck.

The Scholarship Committee of the Church of St. Leo the Great in Waterbury will have Support “Princess and the Prom” by drop- an indoor flea market and tag sale featuring This companion book was ping off a prom dress at Defining Moments 24 vendors Saturday, March 23, from 9 a.m. triggered by the critically acclaimed documentary, “A Place at the Table,” and features gritty, insightful and thought-provoking essays from food and hunger activists and reformers who in addition to identifying the problem, serve up innovative ways Ask Mike! Computer we can change the dire problem and Tech Questions of hunger. The essays and conAsk Mike will meet Tuesday, tributions provide context and background for the documen- March 19, at 3:30 p.m. Have a computer or e-reader question? tary.

Peter Pringle, author and co- Need a basic lesson? Sign up for author of 10 books on science Ask Mike! Spaces are limited. and politics, including the best- Please call the library to sign up. seller “Food Inc.,” edits this colDancemakers lection. Essayists include such This program will meet Thursheavy hitters as Jennifer Harris of Yale University; David Beck- day, March 21, at 5:45 p.m. Are mann, head of Bread of the you curious about dance? The World; Andy Fisher, veteran ac- Brass City Ballet, in partnership tivist; and Marion Nestle, nutri- with the library, presents tionist and acclaimed critic of “Dancemakers,” a series of FREE multigenerational, inter-ability the food industry.

As Pringle points out, hunger dance composition workshops.

The workshops are open to in American can be reversed if we join forces to make healthy the general public ages 5 and up, food both more available and no dance experience is necessary, families are invited to ataffordable. (c) 2013 King Features Synd., Inc. tend and canes, walkers and Region 15 student Margo Lucas, shown with her artwork, is one of the region’s student artists whose wheelchairs are welcome! Please works are on display this month at the Southbury Public Library.

(Submitted photo) call the library to sign up.

Donate a Prom Dress

Library Happenings Middlebury

Middlebury Volunteer Fire Department Call Log Date Time Address/Incident 3/3/13 06:56 Route 63 and Woodside Heights. Motor vehicle accident with injuries.

3/6/13 12:43 Middlebury Public Library fire alarm. Workers on the scene set off alarm.

3/6/13 ---- 381 Lake Shore Drive. Structure fire. Fully involved on MVFD arrival. Defensive fire attack initiated.

3/7/13 12:29 2132 Middlebury Road. Quassy. Fire alarm activation. Workers on scene set off alarm.

3/7/13 13:59 11 Ridgewood Drive. Fire alarm activation.

Workers on the scene set off alarm.

3/7/13 16:09 28 Jenson Drive. Carbon monoxide alarm.

Bad battery in detector.

3/8/13 09:41 381 Lake Shore Drive. Called in as a fire at the location of the previous structure fire.

No fire, just a little smoke. No action needed

by MVFD.

Please tell our advertisers you saw their ads in the Bee-Intelligencer!

Non-fiction Book Discussion Group The non-fiction book to be discussed by the book group Tuesday, April 9, at 6:30 p.m. at the library will be “The Zookeeper’s Wife” by Diane Ackerman.

Please ask for a copy of the book at the circulation desk.

The Middlebury Public Library is temporarily at the Middlebury Timex Building at 199 Park Road Extension, Suite D, in Middlebury. Call 203-758-2634 or visit www.middleburypubliclibrary.org for more information.

Naugatuck Book Club The Whittemore Book Club will meet Tuesday, March 19, at 7 p.m. in the Main Reading Room. The book to be discussed will be “The Reivers” by William Faulkner.

The Howard Whittemore Memorial Library is at 243 Church St. in Naugatuck. For information, call 203-729-4591 or visit whittemorelibrary.org.

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The Wednesday afternoon movie March 20 at 1:30 p.m. in the Kingsley Meeting Room will be the latest James Bond adventure – the 23rd installment of this longest-running film franchise in history. When M16 comes under attack, Bond (Daniel Craig) must track down and destroy the threat, no matter how personal

Tony’s

the cost. Judi Dench is back as M, Javier Bardem is the villain, and Adele sings the Oscar-winning theme song.

The room’s surround sound theater has an infrared listening system available. For more information, call 203-262-0626.

Electricity Monitors to Check Out The library has electricity monitors at the adult circulation desk that Southbury residents with a current library card can check out for two weeks. The monitors cannot be reserved or renewed. Instructions on how to operate the monitor and how to calculate the cost of running an appliance are included with each monitor. Assistance with the monitor is available Fridays from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. in the Reference Department.

The electricity monitor helps people detect power used by their appliances and electronics and calculate how much they cost to operate. The monitors help identify the real energy abusers in your home. They also can be taken on shopping trips to test for energy-efficient appliances.

Special Display

Wednesday Film

203-758-8561

Friday, March 15, 2013

This month, a memorial display for the Sandy Hook victims created by a Newtown resident knitter is on display in the Brinker Fireplace Room glass cabinet in the library. The 26 miniature yarn dogs and cats were knitted in memory of the 20 children and six educators.

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PHS Art Work on Exhibit Region 15 is observing Youth Art Month again this year by displaying local student art work in the Gloria Cachion Gallery in the Southbury Public Library until Wednesday, March 27. The majority of the art will be two-dimensional paintings and drawings, but there also will be selected three-dimensional pieces, sculpture and photography.

Region 15 has collaborated with the library for more than 25 years, displaying creative art work during Youth Art Month.

Check www.southburylibrary. org for more information. The library is at 100 Poverty Road in Southbury (203-262-0626).

Woodbury The Children’s Department is offering the following program free for area residents. Registration is required. For more information or to register, call 203263-3502 or visit www.woodbury-libraryct.org.

Dog with Different Abilities - A special dog with different abilities will visit the library Saturday, March 16, at 10:30 a.m. Families with children of all ages are welcome to join his owner, Trisha Malfitano, as she reads her book, “My Dog Kiefer,” which explains why Kiefer is different than other dogs and why his differences make him special.

Beatrix Farrand Rediscovered Colleen Plimpton will give a dramatic, 45-minute first-person presentation of the life, times and work of the distinguished “landscape gardener” Beatrix Farrand (1872-1959) Saturday, March 23, at 2 p.m. Farrand was America’s first female landscape architect and a founding member of the

American Society of Landscape Architects. Though overlooked for decades, her work is being rediscovered. Many of her gardens, such as Bellefield in Hyde Park, N.Y.; Hill-Stead in Farmington, Conn.; and Garland Farm in Bar Harbor, Maine, have been restored.

Plimpton spent 30 years in her first career as a clinical social worker with the chronically mentally ill. Her second career is that of professional garden communicator. Trained at the New York Botanical Garden, she has tended her sloping Connecticut acre for 20 years. She has been on TV and radio, writes a newspaper column for Hearst Media Group, coaches gardening, lectures widely and writes for various publications. Her garden memoir, “Mentors in the Garden of Life” was a finalist for the 2011 Connecticut Book of the Year in its category.

Learn about Penguins Thursday evening, March 28, at 7 p.m., travel to Antarctica with Paul and Betsy McIlvaine. Brookfield residents, the McIlvaines like to go to the extremes of the earth. Twice they have been to Antarctica within the past three years.

They will give a talk based on their visits to the white continent.

Besides the stunning mix of light and ice and mountain peaks, they will show life among the seven species of penguins that inhabit Antarctica, the Island of South Georgia and the Falkland Islands. Also included will be a visit to some of the sites associated with the ill-fated Shackelton Antarctic Expedition of 19141916. The talk will be in the Gallery.

For more information, call 203-263-3502 or visit www. woodburylibraryct.org. The library is at 269 Main St. South in Woodbury.

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The Bee-Intelligencer

Friday, March 15, 2013

3

Sippy presents reduced Region 15 budget

By KATHLEEN RIEDEL At Monday night’s Regional School District 15 Board of Education (BoE) meeting, Superintendent Dr. Frank Sippy proposed a revised 2013-2014 budget with an increase of 2.98 percent – down from the original 4.54 percent increase he proposed Feb. 13. After the Feb. 25 budget workshop, BoE members requested revisions without compromising the quality of expenditures.

“The only reason we’re 2.98,” Director of Finance Keith McLiverty said, “is because a call came from Anthem that said, ‘We want your business, and we’re going to give you one percent.’”

Sippy said medical insurance was “the one area we felt most confident with respect to budget certainty. Come to find out, our vendor really values the idea of premium face policy as opposed to self-insured policy – so much so that they gave us a tremendous savings.”

Where self-insurance assumes a probability of aggregate risk and budgets accordingly, a premium corporate policy, like Region 15’s with Anthem, requires the region to pay according to the specific health coverage plan.

The revised health insurance policy creates an additional savings of $300,000, equivalent to another half percent total budget reduction. (Each percent increase/decrease equals approximately $600,000.)

“That brings the total reduction to $940,000,” Sippy said.

“When you do the arithmetic, the revised budget recommendation I’m presenting to you is an increase of 1.797 million or 2.98 percent.”

McLiverty said, “We operated at zero percent for two years while other things went up. We took the savings, and we reduced the cost, as we call it, on the outer circles – what’s furthest away from the classroom. We’re asking for what we think is fair and reasonable.”

Sippy proposed several corresponding reductions for board consideration beginning with elimination of $240,000 from the security personnel line.

“Keith’s (McLiverty’s) work with local law enforcement combined with the facilities upgrades with respect to the areas where the public interfaces with the school, really give us a rather secure environment,” Sippy said.

“We both felt comfortable, at least for this year, reducing the expenditure.”

“We will continue to have security personnel monitoring the schools,” Sippy assured. “You will not see any drop off with respect to law enforcement coverage at the schools.”

Sippy also recommended reducing the security facilities enhancement portion by $110,000 – retaining $400,000 within the budget to begin facility upgrades and ensuring reception areas are secure.

“In addition,” Sippy said, “I am suggesting we reduce the technology equipment line by $200,000.” He said the district will not lose its capability to acquire equipment previously scheduled for purchase within the 20132014 fiscal year – including necessary computers.

Sippy said with the help of Region 15 principals, he also realized reductions in both classified and certified staff. Classified staff are positions not requiring specific certification or licensure – for example health, clerical, custodial or transportation employees. All certified staff members on the other hand, including library-media technicians and guidance counselors, must be licensed for employment.

Sippy recommended a $40,000 classified staff reduction, and an

Region 15 School Calendar

additional $50,000 certified staff reduction, including elementary physical education and secondary world language staff. “It’s not much, but at this point every dollar counts,” he said.

Including all these reductions, the original proposed 2013-2014 budget decreases by $640,000, and the overall increase is 3.48 percent before deducting the $300,000 in insurance savings.

The majority of board members responded positively when polled by Chairman Janet Butkus.

BoE member Francis Brennan said, “I want to thank the superintendent and the staff for the effort they made. It’s a substantial effort, and it deserves full consideration.”

Sippy said, “We made the eagle scream. Which means we really tried to squeeze every last dime and dollar out of the budget. We do not graph these fiscal reductions for show. We do it because there’s an end game.

And the end game is, the more we can save on costs, the more we can invest with kids.”

The next regular BoE meeting will be Monday, March 25, at 7:30 p.m. in Pomperaug High School All-Purpose Room No. 103.

Exploring the WWW (world wide web) – Tuesday, March 19, from 1 to 2:30 p.m., see all the amazing sites and information available to you! Be ready to be surprised! The fee for this one-session class is $15.

Customizing Your Computer – Wednesday, March 20, from 1 to 2:30 p.m. Learn how to customize your computer to your needs and taste, from scrolling family photos to putting all your favorite sites at your finger tips.

The fee for this one-session class is $15.

Windows 7 Tips & Tricks – Thursday, March 21, from 1 to 2:30 p.m. Learn how to effort-

lessly navigate Windows 7. See AARP CT Tax Aide and use the improvements built Free income tax assistance is into this operating system. The provided at the Middlebury Sefee for this one-session class is nior Center at 1172 Whittemore $15.

Road in Middlebury by the AARP Aide program for low- to modCommission on Aging Tax erate-income taxpayers of all ages, The next Commission on with special attention to those 60 Aging meeting will be Tuesday, and older. Call 203-577-4166 for March 19, at 9:30 a.m. All inter- more information or to schedule ested persons are welcome to an appointment with a certified attend.

AARP Tax Aide counselor.

Book Club The senior center is establishing a book club for adults 55 years of age and older. Joanne Pannone is coordinating the group. Please

Free Blood Pressure Screening

Trips

The Visiting Nurse Association Christmas Tree Shops offers a free blood pressure The Middlebury senior miniscreening every Tuesday from 10 bus will leave the senior center a.m. to 12 pm. No appointment Thursday, March 21, at 10:30 is necessary. a.m. to go to the Christmas Tree

call 860-945-5250 to register.

Dinner for attendees will be Dates and times will be scheduled served at 4:30 p.m. following the based on the level of interest. presentation. Please register by March 15. This program is limResponsible Gaming Talk ited to 30 participants.

Monday, March 18, at 3:30 Craft Club p.m., the center will host, “Your Winning Ticket,” a presentation The center’s monthly Craft about responsible gaming for Club will meet Wednesday, seniors. Jennifer DeWitt, execu- March 20, at 1:30 p.m. Please tive director at the Central Nau- register by March 19. gatuck Valley Regional Action Council, will present safe gam- Strength Training Class bling practices and will share Certified Personal Trainer Kim facts everyone should know be- Stewart will lead a strength trainfore they gamble. ing class Thursdays, March 21

Health booth can’t replace doctor Coming to a Walmart or Sam’s Club near you: a self-service health booth. SoloHealth Stations are interactive kiosks that could keep you from going to your doctor for proper medical care.

There, I’ve said it. I’m against them.

Here’s how they work: You sit at a machine and answer questions about your lifestyle, what you eat and the health of family members. You get cuffed and have your blood pressure checked.

Weigh in and get your eyes checked. Learn your BMI – body mass index. Get advice on vitamins and pain management and heartburn. (How convenient that the machine will even tell you what aisle the vitamins are on.)

One-stop health monitoring say those who are responsible for

Subscription Information The Bee-Intelligencer is available by mail to those outside our delivery area or in need of extra copies. Mail delivery costs $40 a year for each subscription. Send a check and the mailing address to Bee-Intelligencer, P.O. Box 10, Middlebury, CT 06762. Call 203-577-6800 for rates for shorter periods of time.

putting these machines in Walmarts. But is a machine going to notice if you’re looking a bit pale?

While it’s taking your blood pressure, will it also listen to your heart and notice just the faintest little blip that shouldn’t be there?

How do you ask it questions?

And what of privacy? You’ll enter a lot of personal information into the machine when you sit down for your do-it-yourself health exam. Where does that information go?

Down the road, those same machines will be able to assess your diabetes risk, enroll you in a medical-care policy and who knows

Sunday, March 17 No Events Scheduled

Monday, March 18 PES Nutrition Week March 18-22

Tuesday, March 19 PES Nutrition Week March 18-22 RMS School Walk for Diabetes

Wednesday, March 20 PES Nutrition Week March 18-22 RMS Grade 8 Washington, D.C. Field Trip...............AP Room, 7 p.m.

Parent Meeting Names Can Really Hurt Us at PHS

Thursday, March 21 PES Nutrition Week March 18-22 Region-wide String Festival Concert Grades 6-12......... PHS, 7 p.m.

Friday, March 22 PES Nutrition Week March 18-22 Professional Development Half-Day.............. Student Early Release Elementary Report Cards Go Home MMS Snow Date for Baseketball Blowout.....................PHS 6-8 p.m.

RMS Snow Date for March Madness at PHS

Saturday, March 16 No Events Scheduled

Region 15 website: www.region15.org

Advertise in the Bee-Intelligencer

Shops in Orange, Conn. After riders go shopping, the bus will stop so they can have lunch at the Cracker Barrel Restaurant.

The charge for transportation only is $7 per person.

Call 203-577-4166 to reserve a seat on the bus.

Painted Pony Lunch

what else. There is a proposal to let these machines help you diagnose whether you have high cholesterol – and even pick up an over-thecounter drug for it.

Make yourself a promise: If you’re tempted to use one of these health kiosks, go ahead, but send the results to your doctor.

It’s one thing to play with hightech toys. It’s quite another to turn your health over to an electronic gadget without any human medical intervention.

Matilda Charles regrets she cannot personally answer reader questions, but she will incorporate them into her column whenever possible. Write to her in care of King Features Weekly Service, P.O. Box 536475, Orlando, FL 328536475, or send e-mail to columnreply@gmail.com.

and 28, at 9:30 a.m. Participants may stand or sit. Please register by the day before each class. The cost is $2 per class.

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This month’s Qigong class will be Friday, March 22, at 10 a.m. in Greater Waterbury Area.

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The Middlebury senior bus will go to the Painted Pony Restaurant in Bethlehem, Conn., Thursday, March 28, for a Senior Dine lunch. You must have a “Senior Dine Card” to participate. If you do not have a card, go toM the-SAT Middlebury Senior Center office to get one. To attend the lunch, call 203-577-4166 to reserve a seat.

Falls Avenue Senior Center Events Falls Avenue Senior Center events for area adults 55 and older follow. Reservations are required and can be made by calling 860945-5250. Please speak with a staff member when calling as the senior center does not accept voice-mail reservations. The center is at 311 Falls Ave. in Oakville, Conn.

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The Bee-Intelligencer

4

Friday, March 15, 2013

Bee Intelligencer

in•tel•li•gencer: n. One who conveys news or information The American Heritage Dictionary of the English Language, 4th ed.

Issued every week by: The Middlebury Bee-Intelligencer Society LLC Bee-Intelligencer Staff: Editor-In-Chief/Publisher: Marjorie Needham Contributing Writers: Mary Conseur, Terrence S. McAuliffe, Kathleen Riedel Art & Production: Mario J. Recupido Advertising Sales: mbiadvertising@gmail.com - Submit press releases in person, by mail or email The Bee-Intelligencer welcomes news, press releases and advertising from all surrounding communities Editorial Office: 2030 Straits Turnpike, Suite 1, Middlebury, CT 06762 Direct mail to P.O. Box 10.

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Basketball Roundup Middlebury Girls Travel Basketball The Middlebury Girls Seventh- and Eighth-Grade Travel Team fell to Watertown Saturday in the Western Connecticut Girls Basketball League quarter finals.

Saturday morning’s game between Watertown and Middlebury was exactly what post-season games are supposed to be, a battle between two very evenly matched teams.

Watertown struck first and held a 3-point lead at the end of the first quarter. But Middlebury rallied around Lauren Pelosi’s 6 second-quarter points to take a 1-point lead at the half.

Middlebury outscored Watertown in the third to take a 37–33 lead. But Watertown would not be denied. In the fourth period, the momentum shifted back to Watertown, who regained the lead with less than two minutes to play.

With Watertown up by 4, Juliana Yamin hit a clutch 3-point shot to bring Middlebury to within one. But that was as close as Middlebury would get. In its final possession, Middlebury got a good look from the top of the key, but the shot did not fall.

When the buzzer sounded, it was Watertown advancing to the semifinals with a 52–51 victory over Middlebury.

Eight players from each team scored in the contest including Lauren Pelosi with 13, Allie Orsini with 11, Lauren Stango with 9, Juliana Yamin with 5, Ashleigh Whitten and Ciara Connelly each with 4, Payton Collette with 3 and Sarah Boggiano with 2 for Middlebury.

In the consolation game later that afternoon, Middlebury defeated Northwest 55–35. Middlebury finished the season 16–6 overall, 10–5 in league play.

Coaches Jeff McCasland and Chuck Stango congratulate the players on a successful season and thank their families for their overwhelming support. They also thank Chip Fitzgerald and Betty Proulx for their time and dedication and the Town of Middlebury for its continued support of girls travel basketball.

Middlebury Boys Travel Basketball In their final regular season game, the Middlebury Boys Seventh- and Eighth-Grade Travel Team took to the road to play New Hartford. Both teams entered the game with a 9-2 win loss record. The winner would be the 2 seed in the upcoming season-ending tournament.

Middlebury started slowly but clung to a 12-8 lead after the first period behind the strong play of Matt Wynne, who scored 8 of his 10 points for the game. Danny McNamara (7 points ), Fran Barton (4 points), Mike Atallah (4 points) and Will McDonald (2 points) played strong games and helped Middlebury maintain a comfortable edge throughout much of the game.

New Hartford battled back and closed the gap to 6 points with 5 minutes remaining. Chase Belden then scored 14 of his 28 points as Middlebury went on a 16-2 run to win comfortably 5737. The playoffs will start next weekend.

Letters to the Editor Letters to the editor may be mailed to the Bee-Intelligencer, P.O. Box 10, Middlebury, CT 06762 or emailed to beeintelligencer @gmail.com.

Letters will be run as space permits. Please limit letters to 500 words, avoid personal attacks, and understand letters will be edited. For verification purposes, please include your name, street address and daytime telephone number.

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It Happened in Middlebury

Middlebury churches central to residents’ lives

By DR. ROBERT L. RAFFORD Religious societies had a central role in the lives of Middleburians when the town was formed, and that tradition continues to this day. The argument Middleburians used to form a new town was that it was too far and inconvenient for them to travel to the Congregational Church in Waterbury, so they wished to permanently establish their own.

In the 18th century, the Congregational Church was the established church of Connecticut, and others persisted at a significant disadvantage. The First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution erected a separation between “religion and government,” as Madison called it, but at the time that applied only to the federal government. This persisted until Connecticut’s Constitution of 1818 disestablished the Congregational Church and allowed for all to practice the religion of their choice with no favoritism from state or local governments.

This separation was challenged by such prominent Congregational clergy as Lyman Beecher, pastor of the Congregational Church in Litchfield and father of the Rev. Henry Ward Beecher and Harriet Beecher Stowe, among others. However, he soon came to realize this provision actually strengthened religious life, and he came to embrace the separation. The 14th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution in 1868 applied the Bill of Rights to the states, extending the separation of religion and government to all state governments.

The first important action concerning a church in Middlebury was the introduction, in 1757, of a petition to the General Court by 35 families in Middlebury for “winter privileges.” The local Congregational Church was the Waterbury Congregational Church, established in 1691. Because the journey into Waterbury was so rugged in wintertime, Lieut. Josiah Bronson and other citizens petitioned to have a minister conduct services in Middlebury. The petition was at first refused, but granted in 1760. In 1786, the “old society” of Waterbury agreed to pay for preaching in Middlebury for eight winter Sabbaths.

In 1786, the Gunntown Episcopal Parish was formed at the home of Jobamah Gunn near the border between present-day Middlebury and Naugatuck, which was established as a separate town in 1844. The parish was moved in 1832 to Naugatuck and became the forerunner to St. Michael’s Episcopal Church there.

The Methodist Episcopal Church was formed in Baltimore in 1784, and by 1790 Methodist Episcopal circuit riders were conducting services in Middlebury. On Dec. 29, 1790, the Connecticut General Assembly granted “West Farms” to be a separate Congregational ecclesiastical society, formed from portions of Woodbury, Southbury and Waterbury, and called Middlebury.

In 1793, the first church building erected in Middlebury was the Congregational Church building on the west side of the Green. The cornerstone showed the date of June 4, 1792. On Feb. 10, 1796, 12 persons entered into covenant, and a church was constituted. On Nov. 6, 1798, the Rev. Ira Hart was ordained in Middlebury and installed as the Congregational Church’s first minister.

In 1826 the Methodist Episcopalians were holding camp, or revival, meetings in Middlebury, and between about 1832 and 1835 a Methodist Episcopal Church building was built on the east side of the Green. That building still stands today. It is owned by Westover School and used as an administration building. The organ from this church was donated to the Middlebury Historical Society by the Smith family of Woodbury in memory of Marion Abbott Skiff and Jeanne Skiff Smith and can be seen on display at the Historical Society. Methodist Episcopal Church services were discontinued in 1921.

Construction on St. John of the Cross Roman Catholic Church in Middlebury began in 1907.

St. George’s Episcopal Church in Middlebury stands on land donated by the George Goss family in 1958. (Middlebury Historical Society photos) In 1832, the old Congregational Church building was torn down and a new edifice erected, which lasted until it burned down in 1935. The building standing today is a replica of the one built in 1832 and was dedicated Sept. 19, 1937.

The Rev. Ralph W. Rowland was the minister at the time, and more than 400 people attended the dedication. Robert M. Fenn was the chairman of the Building Committee, and members were G. Fred Abbott, Howard E. Bronson, Albert G. Clark, Allan Clark, Arthur S. Judd, Mrs. Charles L. Larkin, William M. Shepardson and Charles Hiram Upson.

In 1907, the cornerstone was laid for St. John of the Cross Roman Catholic Church.

On Nov. 24, 1914, the church, with 20 families, was dedicated by Bishop John J. Nilan. The church was built of native stone brought in by wagon loads by the church members and friends.

The Rev. John J. Loftus, who had been the Roman Catholic priest in Watertown, founded the Middlebury and Woodbury parishes and served as priest until 1916. He was a selfless man who raised chickens and grew vegetables so he could give them to poor and unfortunate.

In 1958, St. George’s Episcopal Church was formed in Middlebury. On July 26, 1958, George A. Goss Jr. and his wife, Claire (Leader) Goss, gave 6 acres of land on Tucker Hill Road for the site of the church. A temporary structure was built, and the dedication was held Nov. 17, 1963. Officiating was the Right Rev. Walter H. Gray, Episcopal Bishop of the Diocese of Connecticut, and visiting ministers, with more than 300 in attendance.

The building committee was headed by Harry Wynn. The first vicar was the Rev. F. Newton Howden, and the first full-time vicar of St. George’s was the Rev. Bruce M. Robin-

son. In 1963, the Right Rev. J. Warren Hutchens, Suffragan Bishop of Connecticut, presided at a ground-breaking for a new, permanent church building.

On Nov. 4, 1956, groundbreaking was celebrated for a new Baptist church on Kelly Road in Middlebury. The church was originally established in Waterbury in 1892 as the Swedish Baptist Mission. In 1905 the mission became the Swedish Tabernacle Baptist Church, but by the 1950s the church was seeking a new site because its old church building was too small and hidden by the tall buildings around it. A dedicatory service was held Sept. 17, 1960, and the Rev. Maurice C. Lundh announced that more than 250 people were in attendance.

The structure was completed and the dedication of the Middlebury Baptist Church, as it is now named, occurred Nov. 18, 1962. Carl F. Froelich was the chairman of the building committee.

One of the most recent religious institutions to be organized in Middlebury was the Mattatuck Unitarian Universalist Society, begun in 1980 by the author, who was the society’s first minister. The society has since met in neighboring Woodbury.

More detailed information on the religious life of the community of Middlebury can be read in the pages of Delia Bronson’s “History of Middlebury,” edited by Bradford E. Smith and presented by the Middlebury Historical Society, Inc. Copies may be purchased from the society or at the Town Hall or library. A history of St. John of the Cross Church was written by Dr. Ray Sullivan of Middlebury.

Bob Rafford is the Middlebury Historical Society president and Middlebury’s municipal historian. To join the society, visit MiddleburyHistoricalSociety.org or call Bob at 203206-4717.

The Bee-Intelligencer

Friday, March 15, 2013

5

ZBA considers Steinmann Avenue, Burr Hall Road matters

By TERRENCE S. MCAULIFFE The Middlebury Zoning Board of Appeals (ZBA) at its March 6 meeting unanimously accepted an application to enclose a space on a Steinmann Avenue home and approved a setback variance for a house on Burr Hall Road.

A coverage variance application for Peter and Sharilyn Brochhausen to enclose the 14- by 21-foot space between the house and garage at 123 Steinmann Avenue was unanimously accepted.

Left to right, Fausto Guamatari, his wife Elizabeth and his brother Felipe hold shoes and a purse at Chairman Dennis Small said staking of the addition for comShoe Service Plaza in Southbury. The brothers repair and restore a wide range of leather items.

(Trish Blazi photo) missioner inspection was not necessary since it was defined by other structures, but reminded

Brothers restore, repair shoes and more

By MARJORIE NEEDHAM The term “miracle workers” is usually reserved for profound events such as saving lives. But the repair and restoration talents of brothers Fausto and Felipe Guamatari when it comes to shoes and other leather items seem nothing short of miraculous to this reporter. Those who own designer shoes may agree when they see what the brothers can do to restore them to likenew condition.

One of the many “before and after” photos in their Southbury shop shows a pair of pink women’s high-heeled summer sandals before, when the shoes nearly had been destroyed by a family dog, and after, when the shoes appeared brand new. The black men’s shoe Fausto holds in the photo above came in with cracks across the upper. After going through a restoration process, it had just the creases one would expect to see in a shoe upper.

A more complex, but everyday task for the shoe duo is the cowboy boot repair they are about to do. The lizard skin portion of the boot tore, so the brothers have ordered replacement lizard skin.

They will use it to repair the boot so it looks like new.

The brothers have two shops.

They opened a shop in Bethel in 2009. “To my surprise,” Fausto said, “the first day there were 10 people waiting for me to open the door.” One person showed up with 15 pairs of ladies’ shoes that needed repairs.

Soon people from Middlebury, Southbury and as far away as Hartford were bringing them shoes. “They said it was not too far to drive for quality work, but they said it would be easier for them if we opened a shop in Southbury,” Fausto said. So they opened the shop in Bennett Square in Southbury in 2011.

They also do business online

at www.shoeserviceplaza.com.

“They can send us shoes from China,” Fausto said. A customer in Texas recently shipped them 10 pairs of Gucci shoes to repair.

In addition to Gucci, they frequently repair or restore Prada, Monolo Blahnik and Christian Louboutin shoes.

They also work on less expensive shoes and do more common shoe repairs – resoling either the whole or half and tightening or stretching shoes to accommodate a foot’s needs, such as a hammer toe. They can custom mix dyes to restore color to leather shoes, too.

Customers also bring them new shoes, mostly to have sole guards put on to protect them from wear. Some need new shoes stretched or tightened. Patent leather shoes can be particularly stiff when they are new, so the shop can break them in for customers.

When it comes to handbags, they can restore their colors, too.

They also can put in a new lining, replace zippers, replace lost or broken hardware and shorten the handles.

Boots can be altered to fit better, with cuffs taken in or stretched to fit the customer.

Boot zippers can be repaired or even added if they are needed.

When it comes to Uggs boots, they can repair them, but they also can clean them. “Ugg boots are very delicate,” Fausto said.

“You have to take care not to remove the oil.”

With weddings and proms on the horizon, customers already are bringing them white sateen shoes that will be dyed to match a special-occasion garment. “We already have shoes for May,” Fausto said. Customers bring them the shoes and a swatch of fabric in the color they need; the brothers custom mix the dyes to get the right color. And if the heels on those special-occasion shoes are too high or too low, the

brothers can make them lower or higher as needed.

Horsey folks can bring the brothers their riding boots for alteration or repairs. And if the buckle on a saddle girth needs replacing, they also can take care of that problem.

Their newest venture is extending their knowledge of leather restoration to include restoring leather couches. If it’s leather and it can be repaired or restored, it seems there isn’t much they can‘t do. “Nothing is impossible,” Fausto said – which reminds us we haven’t mentioned leather jackets and belts, which they also repair.

The brothers were born into the shoe-making and shoe repair business. Their father was a shoemaker in Gualaceo, Ecuador, a city Fausto said is known for its women’s shoes. Fausto himself once worked in the shoe factory there. He hand-sewed a dozen pair of leather women’s shoes a week. Now, he said, automation has taken over in the shoe factory. It produces 100 pairs of shoes a day, and they are no longer leather.

Fausto opened his first shoe repair shop in Ecuador when he was 16. When he and Felipe first came to the U.S., they worked in shoe repair in Manhattan. It was there they got a lot of experience working on designer shoes – repairing them is all in a day’s work for them. “We learned a lot in New York,” Felipe said. “Every season the styles change.”

The Southbury shop is at 134 Main St. South, 69F Bennett Square, in the building perpendicular to Main Street that is between Southbury Food Center and the building housing Leo’s Restaurant. The shop is open Monday to Friday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Call 203-405-6025 for more information. Read about the company online at www.shoeserviceplaza.com

Do your homework before you cruise In an informal interview, it was learned, not surprisingly, that there are people who are leery about taking a vacation on a cruise ship. These folks cited events such as the partial sinking of a large ship on the Italian coast last year and the recent stranding of a ship for days without power in the Gulf of Mexico. Mentioned more frequently, however, was the possibility of Norovirus spreading like wildfire and making people sick on vacation.

Whether you’re on the cautious side or are an experienced cruiser, if a summertime cruise is on your agenda, there are ways to do your homework before you sign up.

Cruise Critic (www.cruisecritic.com/reviews) only debuted in March 2012, but it has a wealth of information and reviews broken down by cruisers’ comments and editors’ picks. Right from the site you’ll be able to check prices on Expedia, Avoya Travel, CheapCruises.com, Direct Line Cruises, Cruise.com and Priceline.com Fodor’s (www.fodors.com/ cruises/ships) has a wider variety of ships reviewed and includes deals, guides and a blog, but the reviews aren’t by actual cruisers.

On Cruise Ships (www.cruiseships.com/reviews), you can compare nearly 800 cruise ships and ratings reviews by cruisers on the ship, condition, layout,

amenities, service, food and entertainment. Additionally, you can click on the name of the reviewer and see if he/she has a long history of taking cruises.

If you’re looking for more detailed information about your likely health aboard a cruise ship, start with the Vessel Sanitation Program run by the Centers for Disease Control (www.cdc.gov/ nceh/vsp). Look for the resources on Cruise Ship Outbreak Updates.

You’ll immediately see that the actual number of ships affected

by Norovirus is relatively small.

You’ll also find a list of the ships affected, the dates and the name of the illness. Click on the sailing dates, and you’ll get detailed in-

formation about the number of passengers and staff who were ill.

Also look for the Green Sheet Report, which gives a rating on the cleanliness of each ship.

When it comes to the seaworthiness of the ship itself, the Coast Guard keeps a list of inspections and deficiencies at the Maritime Information Exchange (http:// cgmix.uscg.mil/). Look for Incident Investigation Reports and search for any ship you’re considering.

If you do take a cruise, post your comments and critique after your trip for the benefit of fellow cruisers.

David Uffington regrets he cannot personally answer reader questions, but he will incorporate them into his column whenever possible. Write to him in care of King Features Weekly Service, P.O. Box 536475, Orlando, FL 328536475, or send email to columnreply@gmail.com. (c) 2013 King Features Synd., Inc.

We’d like to hear from you!

Got a hot news tip for us? Please email it to: beeintelligencer@gmail.com Please include your name and telephone number.

We also welcome your ideas for articles you’d like to see in the newspaper. If you don’t have email you can call us at 203-577-6800.

the Brochhausens to send certified letters to adjoining homeowners and bring receipts to the next meeting for a decision.

A front yard setback variance to 25 feet from 50 feet for lot 3 on Burr Hall Road was unanimously approved. Professional land surveyor Scott Meyers and Watertown builder Eric Strachan told commissioners the 2.3-acre property was severely restricted by 1.4 acres of conservation easement that could not be built upon because of wetlands and land trust buffers and also by rock outcrop, leaving only 0.8 acres for a house and septic system. Meyers said the back yard would be only 15 feet deep without an easement.

He told commissioners the front property line was an unusually deep 42 feet from the pavement, rather than a more typical 14 feet. He said with a 25-foot reduced setback the house still would be 67 feet from the road. Strachan told neighboring property owner Mary Veillette he did not intend to blast rock unless it interfered with the foundation. Commissioners unanimously agreed topography of the land was a hardship and granted the variance.

The next regular ZBA meeting will be Wednesday, April 3, at 7:30 p.m. in the town hall conference room.

Lewis, and step-daughter of the late Walter Bridiskis. Marion was retired as office manager from Dr. Ian Petria’s office in Seymour. She was a communicant of Trinity Episcopal Church. Marion enjoyed gaming, especially Bingo, and Sunday dinner poker at Tootsie’s house.

Besides her husband, Mrs. Konnik leaves her loving family including two sons, Robert L. Konnik and his wife, Beth, of South Windsor and Steven Konnik and his wife, Cathy, of Middlebury; a daughter, Sue Branco and her husband, Mingo, of Naugatuck; three brothers: James

Lewis of Derby; Robert Lewis and his wife, Joan, of Seymour; and Frank Lewis and his wife, Sarah, of Oxford; a sister, Madeline “Tootsie” Harrigan of Beacon Falls; six grandchildren: Kathryn, Matthew, Alex, Dina, Adam and Christopher; and several nieces and nephews.

Funeral services were Thursday in the Ralph E. Hull Funeral Home in Seymour. Interment was in Mountain Meadows Cemetery. Memorial gifts may be sent to Connecticut Hospice, 100 Double Beach Rd., Branford, CT 06405. To share a memory, go to www.hullfh.com.

amps. I had a 65 Fender tube amp and that’s gone – a 24-track recorder and a mixing board.” He said he found part of one of his Fender guitars in the rubble, but nothing salvageable.

Frank said his most urgent need is to get back to work.

Whether he is working or not, the bills will keep coming in. There’s

a health insurance premium to pay, along with the mortgage on the house. “My priority is to get some cash flow,” he said. With all his customer records destroyed, getting his business up and running is a challenge. Quality Aire customers can call 203-598-7455 to get in touch with him.

Obituaries Marion E. Konnik

Mother of Steven Konnik Marion E. Konnik, 72, a lifelong Seymour resident entered into peaceful rest March 11, 2013, at Griffin Hospital in Derby.

She was the beloved wife of Robert P. Konnik.

Mrs. Konnik was born May 12, 1940, in Danbury, a daughter of the late Sackies and Lena (George)

Blaze -

Continued from page 1 basement may have been the cause.

As a music lover and members of an oldies band, Frank lost a lot in the two blazes. “I lost eight guitars, my son’s guitar and his

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6

Yoga training, egg hunt

Friday, March 15, 2013

Cinderella to dance Saturday

Brass City Ballet (BCB), a Middlebury-based nonprofit dance company, will present its premiere of “Cinderella” Saturday, March 16, at 6:30 p.m. at the Naugatuck Valley Community College’s Mainstage Theater as part of its annual spring gala. The evening also will feature a silent auction and a post-performance champagne reception whose proceeds will go towards BCB’s Margery Hall Fisk Scholarship Fund. The fund awards scholarships to talented dance students with financial needs so they can pursue their passion in dance.

The cast of “Cinderella” includes members of the BCB’s pre-professional company as well as several local community theater actors, Lauren Elias, Steve Sorriero, John Mullen, and Patrick Hearn. Sorriero and Elias portray the King and Queen while Mullen and Hearn, well known for their antics in musical theater, have teamed up to play Cinderella’s Ugly Sisters, Swivelina and Fuss Bette, so named in BCB’s production. BCB Artistic Director Elizabeth Fisk Barisser joins the two as Cinderella’s stepmother.

The part of Cinderella will be danced by Woodland Regional High School senior and BCB Company principal dancer, Ainsley McMahon. Her prince will be performed by guest artist Julio Alegria, who has performed and guested with several companies, including Gelsey Kirkland Studio Company, Dance Theatre of Harlem, Atlantic City Ballet and Compania Nacional de Danza in Mexico.

BCB will round out the evening with repertoire works that include classical variations and new works. A new piece, performed by Saint Patrick’s Day is a time to BCB Company dancer Courtney Buntin, is celebrate the patron Saint of Irechoreographed by guest artist Eleanor Ainsley McMahon dances the role of Cinderella partnered by the prince, Julio Alegria of land, who is credited with bringBarisser, a graduate of Barnard College, who New York City.

(Christine Harris photo) ing Christianity to Ireland. There recently showed her work in New York City are parades, run events, walkaBy CYNTHIA at the West End Theater as part of David ing 1-855-222-2849 are $35 for adults and Advance sales tickets for the champagne thons, music, dancing, attractions DE PECOL Parker and The Bang Group’s choreogra- $20 for seniors, children 12 & under and reception are $35 per person and $40 at the and lots of traditional food reciphers’ series, Soaking WET. pes with green beer flowing in students. Performance tickets at the door door. Advance reception tickets can be purPerformance tickets purchased in ad- will be $40 for adults and $25 for seniors, chased by calling Brass City Ballet at 203almost every pub. ice cream, sorbet, gelato or frozen 598-0186.

Add a healthy alternative to all yogurt for a fun, different taste. vance online at www.tututix.com or by call- children 12 & under and students. those tasty calories. How about a This week’s nugget for life is to yummy super food shamrock infuse your body and mind with shake to boost your wellbeing and a healthy dose of green by taste jumpstart your pre-Spring taste testing green smoothies and buds? Super-foods offer anti-ag- shakes. Be creative, taking advaning, nutrient-dense, antioxi- tage of the fun of St. Patty’s Day DEAR DR. DONOHUE: Everyrepeated infections. Diabetes is source of vitamin K. If a person dant-rich, immune-boosting and all the days of this week by thing I read about urinary tract one. So is Crohn’s disease, an on Coumadin splurges on these anti-inflammatory benefits and stocking up on frozen berries, infections deals with women, inflammation of the digestive vegetables, he or she could block taste great when flavored with bananas, apples, fresh or frozen including what you write. I am a tract. The inflammation fosters the action of Coumadin. fresh green mint sprigs. spinach, almonds, walnuts, ca- 35-year-old man, and I just had the development of a tunnel beYou have gone 13 years taking Try a quick and easy green shews, fresh mint, a few lemons a week of antibiotics for a urinary tween the bladder and the in- it. Your blood tests have shown smoothie by adding to the and try out your own green reci- tract infection. Why is there this flamed area of the tract. Bacteria that your diet is not affecting blender a handful of spinach and pes full of fiber, richness and glu- bias in dealing with female urihave free access to the bladder. Coumadin’s action. You can eat fresh or frozen mixed berries like ten-free goodness! nary infections over male infecThese are only two examples of whatever you wish. raspberries, blueberries and I leave you with my silly smiley tions? – J.F. why cystitis recurs in few men.

Dr. Donohue regrets he is unblackberries; a tablespoon of ca- attempt at a limerick: “There once ANSWER: The urinary tract inThe booklet on urinary tract able to answer individual letters, shews; a few drops of vanilla ex- was a vegan named Sue. Who fection we’re talking about is infections explains this common but he will incorporate them in tract; and a squeeze of fresh went running and she lost her bladder infection, cystitis (sisria to make their way into the malady in detail and its treat- his column whenever possible. lemon. Add a few pineapple ice shoe. She retraced her steps and TIE-tiss). Both men and women female bladder with relative ment. Readers can obtain a copy Readers may write him or request cubes (simply fill trays with pine- re-did her reps. But never did she come down with bladder infecease. Furthermore, sexual rela- by writing: Dr. Donohue – No. an order form of available health apple juice and freeze overnight), find her shoe.” tions, but the number of women tions force bacteria into the fe- 1204W, Box 536475, Orlando, FL newsletters at P.O. Box 536475, half a banana, a splash of coconut De Pecol is a Yoga instructor, who develop such an infection male urethra, something that 32853-6475. Enclose a check or Orlando, FL 32853-6475. water and 1 cup water, a pit-free Reiki master and life coach who is far, far larger than is the nummoney order (no cash) for $4.75 (c) 2013 North America Synd., Inc.ghts doesn’t happen in men.

Medjool date and five mint leaves. lives in Washington, Conn. See ber of men – 30 times the number People describe cystitis as a U.S./$6 Canada with the recipiVoila ~ health in a glass! Or maybe lifecoachingllc.com or email life- of men. burning pain when passing ent’s printed name and address. you’ll indulge in a little green tea coach3@aol.com.

The main reason for this is an urine. The infection makes a per- Please allow four weeks for deanatomical one. The female ure- son want to empty the bladder livery. thra, the tube that empties the frequently, and it’s a task that has DEAR DR. DONOHUE: I take Please tell our advertisers you saw their ads bladder, is much shorter than the to be taken care of quickly.

Coumadin because of atrial fiin the Bee-Intelligencer! male urethra. That allows bacteAt older ages, men develop brillation. I’ve taken it for 13 almost as many bladder infec- years. Never in all those years has tions as do women. That’s be- anyone, doctor or nurse, told me cause of prostate enlargement. not to eat lettuce or other salad An enlarged prostate gland greens. My cousin just did. She makes complete emptying of the wasn’t sure why, but she said bladder impossible. Urine stag- those foods mess up Coumadin.

Greater Waterbury YMCA nates there and sets up an envi- I have regular blood tests. None ronment that favors bacterial has shown that my Coumadin 1. Who was the last Texas Rangers pitcher before Yu Darvish level needs adjusting. What is growth. in 2012 to have five straight Don’t feel left out because you this green vegetable taboo? – starts of at least seven strikehave had only one bladder infec- M.O. outs? tion. Recurrent bladder infec- ANSWER: Coumadin thins 2.

In 2012, Carlos Beltran betions are truly unusual for men. blood (prevents clots from formcame the eighth member of If a man were to develop one ing) by decreasing the producthe career 300 steals/300 bladder infection after another, tion of vitamin K. Green, leafy The Spring Special is here! homers club. Name four of the then his doctor would have to vegetables – spinach, lettuce, first seven to do it. look for conditions that lead to Brussels sprouts – are a rich If you’ve been hibernating all winter and haven’t 3. Coach Bill Belichick and quarmade it out yet to activate your resolution, NOW terback Tom Brady have made is the time! five Super Bowl appearances together. Name three coach/ • No joining fee now through April 15th QB pairs to have made four • Visit 8x/month for 3 months earn FREE month* trips.

• FREE 12-week HEALTHY LIVING program 4. When was the last time before * Adult categories only, must present this ad to redeem offer 2012 that Creighton won an NCAA men’s basketball tour136 West Main Street Waterbury, CT 203.754.9622 www.waterburyymca.org nament game?

5. How many times was Montreal’s Steve Shutt on a Stanley Cup-winning team? * 6. Who was the last American and soccer player before Abby Wambach in 2012 to win the and FIFA women’s World Player of the Year award? *Fellows American College of Foot Surgeons 7. Who was the first boxer to have been featured on a Wheaties box?

Yoga - Woodbury Parks and Recreation will present a Yoga teacher training informational session with Megan Lutz for those who might be interested in becoming a yoga instructor Thursday, March 21, at 7 p.m. at the Rec House at 7 Mountain Road in Woodbury. Lutz, an E-RYT 200, Prana Flow Yoga and IM=X Pilates instructor, will introduce attendees to the yoga teacher training program and the opportunity to earn a Yoga Alliance 200-hour level teacher training certificate through further study offered by the Woodbury Parks and Recreation Department.

Students of the yoga teacher training will be educated, inspired and supported in their personal growth toward optimal wellness in mind, body and spirit. The Yoga Alliance Teacher Certification can be used to launch a new or secondary ca-

reer in yoga and wellness, or expand skill bases for those who are already a practitioner.

Space is limited for the free session. Please register through the Woodbury Parks and Recreation website, www.woodburyparksandrec.org.

Egg Hunt -Woodbury Parks and Recreation will host the 2013 Egg Hunt Saturday, March 23, at 10 a.m. SHARP at Hollow Park!

Rain or Shine! Wear your prettiest or funniest spring bonnet, bring your basket and join the Easter Bunny at The Hollow!

Take your child’s photo before the race to fill their basket with chocolate eggs hidden in the fields. This is a lot of fun for children up to the age of 10. The Easter Bunny arrives at 9:30 a.m.

This is a free event but optional monetary or non-perishable food donations for the Woodbury Food Bank will be collected.

Shamrock shakes and limerick laughs

Nuggets for Life

Men do get urinary tract infections

DISCOVER YOUR POTENTIAL

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Answers

1. Bobby Witt, in 1987.

2. Barry Bonds, Bobby Bonds, Andre Dawson, Steve Finley, Willie Mays, Alex Rodriguez and Reggie Sanders.

3. Tom Landry and Roger Staubach, Marv Levy and Jim Kelly, and Chuck Noll and Terry Bradshaw.

4. It was 2002, when the Bluejays beat Florida.

5. Five.

6. Mia Hamm, in 2002.

7. Muhammad Ali.

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(c) 2013 King Features Synd., Inc.

The Bee-Intelligencer

Friday, March 15, 2013

7

Classified Ads

Classified Advertising Deadline: 5 p.m. Monday Classified Advertising Cost: $10 per week, up to 40 words. 25¢ each additional word.

Submit ad with your name, address, telephone number, and payment to: Mail: Bee-Intelligencer, P.O. Box 10, Middlebury, CT 06762 Email: mbisubmit@gmail.com Office: 2030 Straits Turnpike, Suite 1 Assistance. Call National This publication does not knowMORE! Running or Not, Sell For Rent ingly accept advertising which is Aviation Academy Today! your Car or Truck TODAY. deceptive, fraudulent, or which FAA Approved. CLASSES WARM WEATHER IS YEAR Free Towing! Instant Offer: might otherwise violate the law or STARTING SOON! 1-8001-800-871-0654 ROUND In Aruba. The waaccepted standards of taste. How292-3228 or NAA.edu ter is safe, and the dining ever, this publication does not warContractors ATTEND COLLEGE ONLINE is fantastic. Walk out to the rant or guarantee the accuracy of from Home. *Medical,*Busibeach. 3-Bedroom. Weeks any advertisement, nor the quality HAS YOUR BUILDING SHIFTness,*Criminal Justice,*Hosavailable. Sleeps 8. $3500. of the goods or services adverpitality.

Job placement assisED? Contact Woodford Bros., Email: carolaction@aol.com tised. Readers are cautioned to tance. Computer available.

Inc. for straightening, leveling, for more information. thoroughly investigate all claims Financial Aid if qualified. foundation and wood frame made in any advertisements, and to SCHEV authorized 877-203repairs at 1-800-OLD-BARN, Instruction use good judgment and reasonable www.wood-fordbros.com, 1086, www.CenturaOnline. care, particularly when dealing with com.

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DIVORCE $350* Covers Child LEARN A FOREIGN LANSupport, Custody, and VisitaGUAGE ONLINE. Meet new tion, Property, Debts, Name people on an international Change... Only One Signalevel. Broaden your skills. ture Required! *Excludes Learn at your own pace. govt. fees! 1-800-522-6000, www.LearnAndDiscover.com Extn. 800, BAYLOR & ASSOCIATES.

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Legal Notices LEGAL NOTICE MIDDLEBURY PLANNING & ZONING COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING The Middlebury Planning & Zoning Commission hereby gives notice that at the regular meeting held on Thursday, March 7, 2013 at 7:30 p.m., at the Shepardson Community Center, 1172 Whittemore Road, Middlebury, CT the following decisions were made: Pilot Seasoning Company/Stacey J. Drubner /68 North Benson Rd.-Applications for Certificate of Zoning Compliance and Excavation & Grading Permit-Public Hearing was closed and the applications were approved per conditions Quassy Amusement Park/2132 Middlebury Rd.-Application for Site Plan Revision pursuant to Section 51 of the Regulations-Application was accepted and approved 1365 LLC-Application for Special Exception Use for alcoholic beverages @ restaurant/patio pursuant to Section 66.3 of the Regulations-Application was accepted and a Public Hearing was scheduled for 4-4-13 Dated this 11th day of March 2013 Curtis Bosco, Chairman

(Kathleen Brown-Carrano cartoon)

Q:

Energy Audits

Recently, my wife received a call from someone claiming to be from our electric company, offering us a “free energy audit.” I’m suspicious.

Nothing is really for free, and I’ve heard stories of fraudsters getting money from senior citizens by posing as utility employees.

Have you heard of this energy audit before? How can I confirm that it’s real or not? – Jesse F., Little Rock, Ark.

A:

Many utility companies do offer energy-savings programs. The programs vary, but they often include some type of review of your current energy usage (something like an energy audit).

By Samantha Mazzotta Still, you’re always right to be a little suspicious of generous offers. Your utility may very well have a free energy audit program.

The way to find out is to call the customer-service number on your latest utility bill.

Whether the original energy audit offer is legitimate or not, ask the customer service associate if the utility offers any sort of energy-savings program – particularly one for senior citizens.

Some offer energy audit kits, while others may refer you to a third-party energy audit service.

An energy audit basically takes stock of how efficiently your home is heated or cooled and tries to pinpoint areas of the house where air is escaping. This is sometimes done by setting up a piece of equipment known as a “blower door” in the frame of your home’s front door. The blower door changes the air pressure inside the house slightly – enough for the audit provider’s sensors, often infrared, to detect where that air is escaping. From there, the provider recommends a few solutions.

Some energy audits are simple walkthroughs of your house followed by recommendations to reduce energy use, such as replacing incandescent bulbs with newer fluorescent bulbs. Other audits are do-it-yourself and might be as simple as filling out an online questionnaire. In any case, it’s worth it to find out if a low-cost or free energy audit is available.

Send your questions or home tips to ask@thisisahammer.com, or write This Is a Hammer, c/o King Features Weekly Service, P.O. Box 536475, Orlando, FL 328536475. (c) 2013 King Features Synd., Inc.

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The Department of Energy’s website offers details on types of energy audits and tips on ways to save energy.

Serving The Area For 25 Years Daniel Weise 203-527-6487 • Pruning • Cabling

• Fertilizing • Inspections

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Reporter Editorial Assistant The Middlebury Bee-Intelligencer seeks a part-time reporter/editorial assistant to work closely with its editor and publisher to produce this free weekly community newspaper. Requirements are: • Journalism degree or prior newspaper experience.

• Excellent computer, spelling and grammar skills.

• Ability to cover and report on evening meetings.

• Knowledge of AP style, proofreading and proofreading marks.

• Website knowledge, particularly WordPress.

• Familiarity with InDesign.

Send an email with “Newspaper Job” in the subject line to mbisubmit@ gmail.com. Attach your resume.

Mark Donofrio - Middlebury

Insured Lic# 121960 • markelectricllc.com

Rates as low as $15 a week!

We’d like to hear from you!

Got a hot news tip for us?

Please email it to: mbisubmit@gmail.com Please include your name and telephone number.

We also welcome your ideas for articles you’d like to see in the newspaper. If you don’t have email you can call us at 203-577-6800.

The Bee-Intelligencer

8

Friday, March 15, 2013

Town of Middlebury Legal Filings Period Feb. 1 - 28, 2013

Send in your pet photos Your pet could be featured as “Pet of the Week” in this picture frame. Send us your pet’s photo by email to mbisubmit@gmail.com or by regular mail to P.O. Box 10, Middlebury, CT 06762 along with your pet’s name, your last name and your town.

Harley lives with the Blazi family in Middlebury.

He loves to roll in the snow.

Adopt a Rescue Pet

Information provided courtesy of the Middlebury Town Clerk.

Date given is the date the transaction was recorded.

Pelletier, Sharon L. / Pelletier, Thomas / Webster Bank NA / Wells Fargo Bank NA / Naugatuck Savings Bank to Naugatuck Savings Bank, 27 Algin Dr. on 2/1 via Judgment of Strict Foreclosure.

Arnold, Mildred Beleu, aka, Est. to Arnold, Midlred Beleu, aka, Est., Fiduciary Appointment on 2/1 for Probate.

Haddad, Peter R. / Haddad, Lori A. to Baker, Jessica L., Porter Ave. (249 Porter Ave.) on 2/5 via War for $170,000.

Veillette, Phillip E., aka, Est. to Veillette, Phillip E., aka, Est., Rel. Est. Tax / Vol 110 Pg 306 on 2/7 via Probate.

Beckman, Barbara B. to Jose, Marilia, 13 Kimberwick Court on 2/7 via War for $366,000.

Mari, Eduardo G. to Devino, Thomas E., 584 Park Rd Ext on 2/13 via War for $425,000.

Ecsedy, Greg / Ecsedy, Kelly to Connecticut, State of, 254 Tri-

angle Blvd. on 2/13 via War for $280,000.

Iadarola, Joseph, Jr. / Iadarola, Phyllis T. to MacDougall, Thomas W. / MacDougall, Diane M., Shadduck Rd. / Whittemore Rd. (283 Whittemore Rd.) on 2/13 via War for $247,500.

Fannie Mae, aka / Federal National Mortgage Association to Saranitzky, Edward, 137 Central Rd. on 2/13 via War for $257,500.

Tolles, Alice L., Est. to Tolles, Alice L., Est., Fiduciary Appointment on 2/13 via Probate.

D & L LLC for Darren Christopher’s, Trade Name File (564 Middlebury Rd.) on 2/13 for Trade Name.

Northrop, Nancy A. Tr. / Nancy A. Yablonski Revocable Trust to Pipa, Artina, 106 Country Club Rd. on 2/19 via TRD for $150,000.

Ulbrich, Richard J., Est. to Ulbrich, Richard J., Est., Rel Est Tax / Vol 183 Pg. 42 / 291 Tucker Hill Rd. on 2/22 for Probate.

Ulbrich, Richard J., Est. to Ulbrich, Richard J., Est., Rel Est Tax / Vol. 228 Pg. 92 / 291 Tucker Hill Rd. on 2/22 for Probate.

Lombardi, Sabato, aka, Est. / Lombardi, Sal, Est. to Lombardi, Sabato, aka, Est. / Lombardi, Sal, Est., Rel Est Tax / Vol. 216 Pg. 113 / 14 Independence Cr. on 2/25 for Probate.

Moulthrop, Bruce / Moulthrop, Maria W. to Proulx, David / Proulx, Sarah, 61 North Farm Rd. on 2/25 via War for $350,000.

Nardelli, Lisa W. to Nardelli, Marco A., 54 Winthrup Dr. on 2/26 via Q.C. for -0-.

Jenusaitis, John Robert, aka, Est. to Jenusaitis, John Robert, aka, Est. Opinion of No CT Estate Tax Due on 2/26 for Probate.

Jenusaitis, John Robert, aka, Est. to Jenusaitis, John Robert, aka, Est., Rel Est Tax / Vol. 208 Pg. 125 / 580 Watertown Rd. on 2/26 for Probate.

Cannata, Thomas M. / Cannata, Beth B. to Stromstad, Darlene G., 410 Charcoal Ave. on 2/26 via War for $600,000.

Michaud, Elaine to Michaud, Omar O., Lot 18 Ravenwood Dr. (41 Ravenwood Dr.) on 2/28 via Q.C. for -0-.

ANNABELLE Annabelle is such a love bug! She came to us with Lawrence (who already has found his forever home). Annabelle is still here four months later and is missing companionship from people and other cats. She would prefer a quiet home without small children or dogs. She does like other calm, laid-back cats and would love someone who is home often to give her the TLC she deserves.

ANGELINA Angelina is a very sweet and shy girl. She was surrendered by her owner and just does not know why she is here. She is the most adorable young girl who will need an understanding person to assist her in getting used to a new home. No children or dogs as she just desires you!

For more information on these animals, as well as others at Meriden Humane Society (MHS), email meridensociety@sbcglobal.net. MHS is open Wednesday through Sunday from noon to 6 p.m., and volunteers can be available to meet with you through an appointment. MHS is at 311 Murdock Ave. in Meriden.

Going off-leash DEAR PAW’S CORNER: My puppy, “Sky,” is approaching a year old, and she is still a bit rambunctious. I’d like to take her to a nearby off-leash dog park, but I’m worried about how she will act around other dogs and people. – John P., Portland, Maine DEAR JOHN: First, I want to commend you for putting so much thought into your decision to bring Sky to an off-leash park. It’s important to be considerate of how your dog will behave in so-

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cial situations. The question now is, how exactly will she behave?

My guess is Sky has not spent a lot of time with other dogs. She’s old enough now to start socializing, but first make sure she has had all needed vaccinations.

Start small – schedule a play date with a friend or neighbor’s dog, and gradually build the number of dogs she’s around. Supervise her the entire time to make sure she gets along well with other dogs.

If it isn’t possible to do a limited play date, look into weekly group training sessions with a professional trainer. These will reinforce basic obedience skills with Sky

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with the added benefit of socializing, in a controlled environment with other dogs.

If neither option is available, slowly introduce Sky to the dog park. Pick a time when few dogs are in the park. (You’ll need to scout the park on your own beforehand.) Keep her on the leash for the first few visits, especially when she’s meeting new dogs.

Be a good park patron, too. Talk with the other dog owners while you’re there – they can offer helpful advice. Pick up after Sky. Make sure Sky will respond to you and your commands both on and off leash.

Send your questions or comments to ask@pawscorner.com, or write to Paw’s Corner, c/o King Features Weekly Service, P.O. Box 536475, Orlando, FL 32853-6475.

For more pet care-related advice and information, visit www. pawscorner.com. (c) 2013 King Features Synd., Inc.

Family Enrichment Center

Yoga • Zumba • Martial Arts for all ages

Adult Ji Jitsu (No Gi)

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with Chris. Mixed levels.

Mondays & Thursdays 7 - 8 pm

Check our schedule on Facebook: TulaFEC

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TAILORING & ALTERATION for LADIES & MEN APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE Prom Tailoring • TUXEDO RENTALS

MEN’S WARDROBE

LEGANT

DEALER IMPRINT WINDOWS Joan Tiganella

(StatePoint) Cooking from the tips to anyone looking to grow • Veteran gardeners tend to be

garden is not like cooking from the store. There’s nothing more tasty, nutritious and satisfying than fresh, homemade meals made from the fruits, vegetables and herbs you grew yourself.

Experts say that even with modest amounts of time and space, you can grow an organic garden plot that feeds your family all year long.

“The simplest methods of gardening work best,” said Barbara Damrosch, organic gardening expert and co–author of the new book, “The Four Season Farm Gardener’s Cookbook,” which serves as both a garden guide and a healthful cookbook. “There is very little you can’t accomplish in the garden if you trust the systems that are already in place.”

Damrosch and co-author Eliot Coleman contend that organic vegetable gardening is not only healthful for you and your family, but is also good for the planet and can make a serious dent in your food expenses.

They are offering these great

and cook their own food: • When choosing which plants to grow, consider how much space you have. Salad crops, for example, give you the most variety in a garden of limited size. Consider prioritizing crops whose flavor is most notably lacking in supermarket varieties, such as tomatoes, strawberries, cucumbers and melons.

• It helps to get to know different plants on a family basis. Family groupings are very important in planning how to rotate the crops in your garden from year to year, and much of the techniques that work for one vegetable apply equally well to its cousins.

• Don’t let weeds get ahead of you. Once they’ve gained the upper hand, getting rid of them can seem almost impossible.

The ideal time to control weeds is when they are tiny, right after they first appear. Take the extra time to plant in straight lines, which can help with weed control.

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supportive resources to newcomers. Let friends with green thumbs share their enthusiasm and expertise with you. Or get involved in an organic community garden, where there is no shortage of experienced gardeners to consult.

• Pass up the modern habit of eating any crop any time of year by letting your garden feed you. Fruits and vegetables that come from halfway around the world were often harvested far too early and can have a disappointing, bland taste. By planning meals from your garden, you’ll become a more creative, improvisational cook.

More gardening tips can be found at www.fourseasonfarm. com.

Eating is one of the most important things we do, so don’t just settle for what the supermarket has to offer.

Gardening can revolutionize the way you eat, and help you take greater control of your family’s nutrition.

P UZZLE SOLUTIONS: