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Bee Intelligencer Informing the towns of Middlebury, Southbury, Woodbury, Naugatuck, Oxford and Watertown AN INDEPENDENTLY OWNED FREE COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER
Volume X, No. 14
Friday, April 4, 2014
Region 15 budget hearing Monday By MARJORIE NEEDHAM The Regional School District 15 Board of Education (BoE) will host a public budget hearing on the proposed 2014-2015 school budget Monday, April 7, at 7:30 p.m. in the AP Room at Pomperaug High School. The proposed $64.2 million budget is 3.67 percent higher than the current budget, but it is $154,000 lower than the original $64.4 million budget proposed by Superintendent of Schools Regina L. Botsford. Her budget reflected a 3.92 percent increase over the current budget. During budget workshops Feb. 26 and March 5, the BoE shaved $154,000 off Botsford’s budget. Four budget workshops were scheduled, with two more to be held March 13 and 24, but the last two were canceled when the BoE determined they were not needed. BoE member John Cookson explained the cuts. He said the BoE decided to reduce the cost of inservice training by using Title I grant money and reduced the referendum budget by limiting it to two referendums. Cookson said historically there have not been more than two referendums for taxpayers each year they have voted on the Region 15 budget. Another cut was possible because new software for the School Messenger program that informs parents costs less than the current software. The BoE cut its own budget, too, reducing it to $3,000 from $10,000. The costs of inventory management were cut by moving the hiring of an outside inventory management company to every other year instead of every year. A final cut was made in the copier budget by delaying purchase of a new copier at the high school. Last year, between the time the 2013-2014 budget was proposed and the time it went to the polls, it was reduced $1.04 million. Asked why this year’s reduction was $154,000, Cookson said, “There is nothing to cut. You have to pay your debt and the increases in salaries and pensions.” The Region 15 website has a summary of the results of a budget survey conducted by the BoE. At its March 24 meeting, the BoE considered the results of three areas of the survey considered essential or very important to those participating in the survey: smaller class sizes, up-to-date technology and advanced placement courses. These were valued by parents, future parents and staff at 87 percent, 90 percent, and 91 percent, respectively. In contrast, non-parents valued them at 53 percent, 73 percent and 79 percent, respectively Cookson declined to comment on the proposed budget, saying he first wanted to hear what the public had to say Monday night. Asked if people are approaching him as a BoE member, he said, “I’m not really hearing anything at the present time. It’s very quiet out there.” BoE member Fran Brennan said he is still deliberating and has not yet made up his mind about the budget. Asked if he was concerned about the budget increasing as enrollment is dropping, Brennan said, “I’m more concerned about the impact of common core long term. I think it is a major element
in increasing our budget. I can see it as a long-term expenditure.” BoE member Dick Spierto said, “My mind probably won’t be made up until Monday night after the final presentation and the public presentation.” Spierto said he knows from experience that you don’t know until the last minute what the final budget number will be because funds from the state or from grants can unexpectedly change the numbers. A slide in the budget presentation available on the Region 15 website (www.region15.org) under “Budget Info” lists budgets for a four-year period. For 2011-2012 and 2012-2013, there were zero increases. The current budget, 2013-2014, increased 2.82 percent, and the proposed budget is a 3.67 percent increase. On the slide, the four years are averaged to give an annual increase of 1.62 percent. Since the effect of the proposed 2014-2015 budget will be a 3.67 percent increase, the relevance of the 1.62 percent average is unclear. If the budget total remains unchanged Monday night and the budget passes May 7, Middlebury taxpayers will pay $20.1 million, or 31.33 percent, compared to the current budget, for which Middlebury is paying $19.8 million, or 31.87 percent, and Southbury taxpayers will pay $44.1 million, or 68.67 percent, compared to $42.2 million, or 68.13 percent. It’s possible Region 15 revenues from other sources may lower the amount each town has to pay. The change in percentages attributable to each town is based on enrollment numbers on Oct. 1, 2013. Middlebury had 1,257 students compared to 1,309 on Oct. 1, 2012, a decrease of 52 students. Southbury had 2,755 students compared to 2,798 on Oct. 1, 2012, a decrease of 43 students. Overall there are 95, or 2.4 percent, fewer students in the 2014-2015 fiscal year than in 2013-2014. Savings in the proposed budget will come in part from having four fewer full-time effort teachers due to lower enrollment and savings from 23 teachers taking an early retirement incentive. Three of those 23 positions will not be filled. The district also will save the cost of four full-time effort teachers for at-risk students because they will be funded by a Title 1 grant. Personnel-related savings total $537,000. The unavoidable increases Cookson referred to total $1.1 million, or 1.84 percent after the offset of the $537,000 in personnel-related savings. This is due to contract, Social Security and Medicare increases and also $125,000 in additional pension obligations. Taxpayers will have one final opportunity to address the proposed budget with the BoE at the Monday night public hearing. It is unclear whether or not the BoE would make further changes to the budget as a result of public input Monday night, but following the public hearing the BoE will vote on adopting the proposed budget. The next budget action will be the Wednesday, May 7, referendum for voters in Middlebury and Southbury to accept or reject the proposed budget.
Inside this Issue Library Happenings.......... 2 Library Lines.................... 2 Obituaries....................... 5 Region 15 School Calendar....3 Senior Center Events....... 3 Sports Quiz..................... 6 Varsity Sports Calendar.... 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
Upcoming Events
Adoptable Pets................ 8 Book Review................... 2 Classifieds....................... 7 Community Calendar....... 2 Fire Log........................... 3 In Brief............................ 4 Legal Notices.................. 7
saturDAY & Sunday
April 5 & 6
Warmer weather with temperatures in the 50s had melted most of the winter ice on Fenn Pond Tuesday, giving residents hope the long, cold winter was finally coming to an end. Over on Route 188, however, ice still covered most of Turtle Pond. (Marjorie Needham photo)
Middlebury town budget hearing Monday night By MARJORIE NEEDHAM The Middlebury Board of Finance (BoF) will host a public hearing Monday, April 7, at 6:30 p.m. at the firehouse at 65 Tucker Hill Road in Middlebury to present the proposed 2014-2015 Middlebury town budget. This is the same night Regional School District 15 has scheduled a public hearing for its 20142015 budget, which will be presented at 7:30 p.m. in the Pomperaug High School AP Room. The proposed town budget stands at $9.98 million compared to the current town budget of $10.1 million. However, BoF Chairman Michael McCormack said taxes will increase 2.8 percent due to a revenue shortfall for 20142015. For the 2013-2014 budget, $518,000 was taken from the unassigned fund balance and used as revenue. For 2014-2015, $95,000 from the unassigned fund balance was counted as revenue.
Greenway reminders With the weather improving, Middlebury Police would like to remind users of the greenway and parks to leave their valuables at home. Every year people come to the greenway and the parks and lock their valuables in their cars. Additionally, some people open their car trunk by using the trunk release in the car and then place their valuables in the trunk. The person then walks away, and the criminal breaks the window to take the valuables from the car or use the trunk release to get the valuables out of the trunk. This is a statewide problem. Most of the time the stolen credit cards are used right away and, by the time the victim gets back to the car and calls the police, the damage has been done. If you see suspicious people
Although the total tax increase cannot be determined at this time, the proposed 20142015 Region 15 school budget of $64.2 million is a 3.67 percent increase over the current school budget and may increase Middlebury’s contribution to $20.1 million compared to its current $19.8 million if the Region 15 budget passes at the polls on May 7. If both the town and school district budgets pass at their current levels, Middlebury’s total town and school budget will likely be $30.1 million compared to its current $29.8 million. Middlebury First Selectman Edward B. St. John said Wednesday residents aren’t saying much to him about the proposed town budget. “I think it is as bare bones as your going to get when it comes to an operating budget,” he said. “There’s not much meat to pick off the bones.” The Region 15 budget, however, is another matter. “I’m not getting negative comments
on the town budget, but I am on the school budget,” St. John said. “People are concerned the school budget is going to be more than we can afford.” Chief Financial Officer Lawrence Hutvagner said some of the biggest changes made to the town budget included removing $10,000 for the Lake Quassapaug Association. Hutvagner said the money would have gone towards a project dealing with invasive weeds in the lake. The removal of police department overtime money was done without the BoF defining which of the overtime categories was to be lowered. Hutvagner said there are three police overtime categories: regular overtime, school security overtime and special duty paperwork overtime. Hutvagner said the BoF reduced the amount $15,000 below the
– See Budget on page 5
Police matters hanging around the parking lots along the greenway or at the parks, be sure to report them to the police. Police also remind people out jogging, walking or walking their dogs to wear reflective clothing or bright colors to be more visible. Alleged stalking Middlebury Police were called Saturday, March 29, at approximately 10:24 a.m. by a woman who said she was being stalked by a old boyfriend. An incident had taken place at the Blast Gym on Straits Turnpike in Middlebury, where the complainant was working out. She observed her ex-boyfriend watching her. After receiving the complaint, Middlebury and Naugatuck Police went to 560 North Church St. in Naugatuck and arrested Carlos Filipe Pascoal, 29, in a bathroom at the residence. He
had locked himself in the bathroom in an attempt to avoid being arrested. Pascoal was charged with third-degree stalking, a violation of C.G.S. 53a-181e, and interfering /resisting arrest, a violation of C.G.S. 53a-167a. Pascoal was held on $50,000 bond and was arraigned in Superior Court GA#4 Monday morning, March 31. The court raised his bond to $150,000 and instructed him to appear again in Superior Court Tuesday, April 29. Police said there had been previous incidents between the victim and suspect in the past. Officer Demers was the investigating officer. Domestic disturbance Sunday, March 30, at about 7:30 p.m., police responded to the former Golden Age of Trucking Museum at 1101 Southford Road in Middlebury to investi-
gate a domestic dispute. Police determined the dispute had started in Southbury, and Southbury Police also conducted an independent investigation. Michael Zuraitis, 51, of Watertown, Conn., was charged by Middlebury Police with criminal violation of a protective order, a violation of C.G.S. 53a-223. Jennifer Posegate, 45, whose last known address was 192 Heritage Village in Southbury, was charged with third-degree assault, a violation of G.G.S. 53a-61, and disorderly conduct, a violation of C.G.S. 53a-182. Zuraitis was relased on a $5,000 non-surety bond and turned over to Southbury Police. Posegate was released on a written promise to appear. Both were due in court for arraignment Monday, March 31. Officer Marcantonio was the investigating officer.
Connecticut Cactus and Succulent Society Show and Sale What: When: Where: Info:
Panthers’ softball team balances youth, experience
Plant show, plant auctions, plant sales, lectures, vendors Saturday 10 a.m to 5 p.m.; Sunday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Naugatuck Valley Community College at 750 Chase Parkway in Waterbury Free admission; free parking. 50 free plants given away each day.
Public Hearing on proposed Middlebury town budget
monDAY
April 7
Page 6
What: Public presentation of the Board of Finance’s proposed 2014-2015 Middlebury budget When: 6:30 p.m. Where: Tucker Hill Road Firehouse, 65 Tucker Hill Road, Middlebury
Public Hearing on proposed Region 15 budget
What: Public hearing and adoption of Region 15 Board of Education’s proposed 2014-2015 budget When: 7:30 p.m. Where: AP Room, Pomperaug High School Published weekly by The Middlebury Bee Intelligencer Society, LLC - 2030 Straits Turnpike, Middlebury, CT 06762 - Copyright 2014
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Friday, April 4, 2014
Library Happenings Middlebury Best governor discussion
call 203-758-2634 to register. The workshop is sponsored by the Connecticut Community Foundation.
Thursday, April 10, at 6:30 p.m., Fran Brennan will lead a Social Security discussion, “Best Governor Coninformation necticut Ever Elected.” Please Derek Dickson and Ted preregister by calling 203-7582634 or stopping by the library. Koppy, financial advisers with Waddell and Reed Inc., will disDisaster preparedness cuss the Social Security program Mary Keating from the Con- Friday, April 11, at 11:30 a.m. Call necticut Department of Public the library at 203-758–2634 or Health will lead a workshop on stop by to sign up. disaster preparedness Friday, Naugatuck Valley April 11, at 10:30 a.m. Learn about planning and recovery for Genealogy Club meeting The Naugatuck Valley Geneall types of disasters. Preregistered participants will receive a alogy Club will meet Saturday, free survival kit. Space is limited; April 12, at 10:30 a.m. in the Lar-
Book Review “The Daring Ladies of Lowell”
Preparing to garden
by Kate Alcott (Doubleday, $25.95) Reviewed by Ealish Waddell America of 1832 doesn’t offer many opportunities for a girl to make her own way, so farm girl Alice is elated to snag a soughtafter position in one of New England’s new cotton mills. For the first time she is truly independent, earning her own money and able to spend her free time however she likes. And she’s delighted to find a family in her fellow workers, especially the spirited Lovey, whose humor and boldness inspire all her fellow mill girls. But mill work is hard and hours are long; dangerous machinery and even the scraps of floating cotton that fill the air constantly threaten life, limb and lungs. Forthright and outspoken, Alice soon becomes a voice for the rights of the mill girls. And for a while it seems like someone is actually listening: Samuel, the son of the mill owner, with whom she finds a surprisingly deep connection. But tragedy shatters this life when Lovey is found dead, an
apparent suicide that is quickly found to be murder. Intent on justice for her friend, Alice determinedly defends her against all the sordid accusations and scandalous revelations of the ensuing trial, especially once a prominent member of the community is implicated. But the longer the trial continues, the more Alice feels the pain of her divided loyalties, until finally she must make a choice between her conscience and her heart. “The Daring Ladies of Lowell” delves into elements of a littleknown chapter of American history – and a real-life murder trial – to create an enthralling fictional tale of life in the rapidly changing social and economic landscape of 19th-century America. Life in this era was difficult for girls like Alice and Lovey, but the courage and zeal with which they pursued their own destinies is still an inspiration nearly 200 years later. (c) 2014 King Features Synd., Inc.
Middlebury Road (Opposite the Shell Station) Open 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily Anthony Calabrese 203-758-2765
Pansies • Easter crosses Bird Seed Headquarters
Black Oil, Premium Mix, Sunflower Hearts, Niger Seed (thistle for finches)
Deer Corn • Livestock & Poultry Feed
Firewood available in bins and bags
Hop Brook RX
kin Room at the library. Following a brief business meeting, Marian Wood will present a program on “Using Genealogy Message Boards and Blogs.” Wood will show a variety of tips and tricks for searching different online message boards (Ancestry, Cousin Connect, and GenForum) to find information on ancestors and the places where they might have lived. She also will discuss how to write an effective genealogy query. Wood is a professional marketer turned textbook author who has been tracing her family tree for more than 15 years. The public is invited and admission is free. For more information, visit the club website at www. naugatuckvalleygenealogyclub. org or call Dick Kreitner at 203881-8181.
Pharmacy
We gladly welcome all Nelson’s Pharmacy customers Nelson’s Pharmacy is now Closed
Fast and Friendly Service Your Hometown Pharmacy. Your Hometown Pharmacist. Come and meet your friendly Hop Brook Pharmacy staff. Flu shots available every day, no appointment necessary
Kimberly Kent will discuss preparing the earth for spring planting Tuesday, April 15, at 6:30 p.m. She will cover simple soil tests, amendments and tilling and will bring an assortment of perennials with her. Kent has been an associate of The Garden in Woodbury for 14 years. Kent also maintains and designs gardens for her company, Wild At Heart. Call the library to register for this program. Light refreshments will be served. The Middlebury Public Library is at 30 Crest Road. The
telephone number is 203-758- room. Eileen Gorham, of I Bring The 2634, and the website is middle- Calm in Southbury will lead the burypubliclibrary.org. event. When the body goes through a traumatic experience, the body’s energy can stop flowing correctly. Reiki can be used to coax the body’s energy to begin to flow correctly Meditation again. You don’t have to believe in The ongoing meditation prac- Reiki for it to work. As long as the tice will meet Tuesday, April 8, person receiving Reiki does not fight from 6 to 6:45 p.m. in the Reading the Reiki energy, the energy has the Room. It consists of periods of ability to help calm a person’s stress meditation with time for discus- and more. The practice of Reiki is sion. Please arrive by 5:50 p.m. as very calming and it cannot harm they start on time. you. Interested participants will have a chance to experience this Book sale practice at the end of the talk. The Friends of the Whittemore Gorham has lived in Southbury Library book sale will be in the Nel- since she was nine. She has three lie Beatty Room at the library on the children and has been married to following dates and times: Thurs- the same man for 36 years. She also day, April 10, from 3 to 7 p.m. ($5 holds a degree in special education admission); Friday, April 11, from but works with adults with intellec10 a.m. to 4 p.m (free admission); tual disability. and Saturday, April 12, from 10 a.m. Registration is required. Call the to 2 p.m. (free admission). Books library at 203-262-0626, ext. 130, to will include adult and children’s register. fiction and nonfiction with a large selection of science fiction and fanPhotography exhibit tasy (1950s to the present). The photography show/exhibit The Howard Whittemore Me- series “Our Natural World – A morial Library is at 243 Church World Like We’ve Never Seen” by St. in Naugatuck. For information, Jeff Pudlinski will be on display in call 203-729-4591 or visit whitte- the Gloria Cachion Gallery in the morelibrary.org. Southbury Public Library until Sunday, May 4. Pudlinski is an award-winning self-taught photographer who has won more than awards along with two interIntroduction to Reiki 275 national features for his photogThe library will offer “Introduc- raphy. tion to Reiki” Thursday, April 10, at For more information, call 2036 p.m. in the Kingsley meeting 262-0626 or visit www.south-
Naugatuck
Southbury
By DONNA HINE
W
e have “sprung forward” and are eagerly anticipating the first brave crocus of a belated spring. After such a long, cold winter we deserve a real springy spring this year. If only spring would come! Hopefully the weather will cooperate, and soon we can go outside in just a light sweater. In the meantime, we can read, read, read and read some more! I am a big fan of Rhys Bowen’s series featuring Lady Georgiana Rannoch as “Her Royal Spyness,” but have not yet tried her “Molly Murphy” collection. “City of Darkness and Light” (BOW) is the newest in the “Murphy” series and is a very promising addition. Set in Paris, the tale cen-
ters on the artistic world (wait, doesn’t this sound like the book from last month, “I Always Loved You”?). It is actually set in the same time, and Mary Cassett is again a major player! However, the story is much different, and while Molly flees New York City to Paris with her infant son when her husband is threatened, she finds even more danger. With engaging characters and a fastpaced plot, this adventure with Molly and her family can be read quickly. “Boy, Snow, Bird” (OYE) by Helen Oyeyemi is a modern re-telling of “Snow White” – an unintentional evil stepmother tale. Boy marries Arturo and happily becomes the stepmother of Snow. Then she delivers Bird – and it is revealed that both she
Community Calendar Monday, April 7 Board of Selectmen 5 p.m...................................................Town Hall Conference Room Proposed Middlebury 2014-2015 Budget Public Hearing 6:30 p.m......................................... Fire House, 65 Tucker Hill Road
Tuesday, April 8 Democratic Town Committee 7:30 p.m......................................................... Shepardson, Room 27 Republican Town Committee 7:30 p.m......................................................... Shepardson, Room 26 Library Board of Directors 6:30 p.m..................................................Middlebury Public Library
Wednesday, April 9 Board of Finance 7 p.m.............................................................. Shepardson, Room 26 Land Preservation & Open Space 6 p.m...................................................Town Hall Conference Room
Thursday, April 10 Retirement Plan Committee 1 p.m...................................................Town Hall Conference Room Parks and Recreation 7 p.m................................................................ Shepardson, Room 1 Calendar dates/times are subject to change. If your organization would like your event included in the community calendar, please email the information to beeintelligencer@gmail.com.
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and Arturo have been living as light-skinned African Americans passing for white. Snow is sent away while Boy dotes on her new, darker-skinned baby, Bird. The character names alone are food for a lively discussion, as well the author’s loose interpretation of “Snow White.” Mirrors are in abundance as well – this would make a terrific discussion book! Maria Hummel was inspired to write “Motherland” (HUM) through her own personal history found in letters between her grandparents during the war. At first she wanted to know how much they knew of events in Nazi Germany, but changed her perspective of writing to wanting to know what they loved and feared. Stories from her own father filled in some gaps, and a book was born. Intensely emotional, the story she writes is of Liesl, hired to care for three boys – one an infant - when Frank’s wife dies in childbirth. Frank is drafted into medical military service, and Liesl is left to care for the children under increasingly difficult war-induced conditions. This thought-provoking tale forces one to confront terrible circumstances, sometimes beyond our control. OK, I started reading this and had to force myself to put it down – I would have read all day and night to finish “Shotgun Lovesongs” (BUT) by Nickolas Butler. Why is it that certain books snag us, shake us and won’t let us go? The language is gorgeous, the characters believable and the story speaks to us of home, friends and family forever. Many books are made for movies or are even better when listened to while driving (note especially any Janet Evanovich tale is terrific to laugh with during a long car trip!). This book was written to be read. Period. We are fascinated with anything British royalty. We may not always admit it, but I would bet
N eighborhood P Pizzeria izzeria & P Pub ub
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Essential oils in your medicine cabinet Tuesday, April 15, 7 p.m. Michelle Wenis will discuss the benefits of essential oils. Learn how you might improve your health with the use of certified pure, therapeutic-grade essential oils. Wenis has incorporated essential oils into her business and has learned a lot about their benefits. See www.greenwomanvc.wordpress. com or www.facebook.com/likegwyc.
Art exhibit Barbara Rose Romaine’s first public art show is the April exhibit at the library. Her art is vivid, colorful, and entertaining to the eye. Her two collections being shown are “Dancing People,” and “Humans in The Wild.” Most of her pieces are on felt mat board done with pen and chalk pastel; other works are done in watercolor and ink. See her work at www.barbararoseromaine.com. The opening reception will be Saturday, April 5, from 1 to 4 p.m. For more information, call the library at 203-263-3502. For more information, call 203263-3502 or visit www.woodburylibraryct.org. The library is at 269 Main St. S. in Woodbury.
Books to help us wait for spring
900 Straits Turnpike, Middlebury, CT 06762
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that many people watched the royal wedding of William and Kate – and followed news of the birth of baby George. “The New Royal Family: Prince George, William and Kate, The Next Generation” (941.08 JOB) by Robert Jobson will satisfy even the most avid royal watcher. We follow the royal couple from their initial meeting through their wedding and to the birth of Prince George. This is an intimate look at the royal family and includes many photos. “American Mirror: The Life and Art of Norman Rockwell” (B ROCKWELL NORMAN SOL) by Deborah Solomon is a new biography of an American icon. As a biographer as well as an art critic, Solomon writes from an educated viewpoint with integrity and a depth of knowledge, creating a readable history of a complex artist. Rockwell’s art may have defined a simple and wholesome scene of Americana, but behind those folksy pictures was a deeply depressed artist. Ann Rule is the queen of truecrime novels. Her newest, “Practice to Deceive” (364.152 RUL), is a “did-she-really-do-it?” and “how-could-she-do-it!” about murder on an island in Puget Sound. Russell Douglas is found dead – shot in the center of his forehead – and naturally his estranged wife is the first suspect. But did Brenda’s good friend Peggy Sue “arrange” the killing? And many more killings of inconvenient husbands? Can the former beauty queen actually be that connected and evil? Follow the trail and the trial along with Rule and find out what was perceived as the truth! We have been hearing so much about traumatic brain injuries lately in the news – especially involving multiple sports injuries. “Coping with Concussion and Mild Traumatic Brain Injury” (617.481 STO [pbk]) by Diane Roberts Stoler and Barbara Albers Hill is a “guide to living with the challenges associated with post-concussion syndrome and brain trauma” according to the book jacket. Divided into six sections, the book describes how the injury affects the brain and why, the physical symptoms, problems with thinking, emotional and academic skills, as well as financial and insurance issues. You will read real-life stories linked to each area and finally explore the direction care will be taking in the future. These are just a few suggestions available in the new book area. Pop in and see many more! Adult Services Librarian Donna Hine writes Library Lines once a month. If you have a topic you’d like her to cover, contact her at the library at 203-758-2436.
The Bee-Intelligencer
Friday, April 4, 2014
Middlebury Senior Center News Free tax help Free income tax assistance is provided at the senior center by the AARP Tax Aide program for low- to moderate-income taxpayers of all ages, with special attention to those 60 and older. Call 203-577-4166 to obtain additional information or schedule an appointment with a certified AARP Tax Aide counselor.
Computer classes A computer class for beginners started Tuesday and will meet Tuesdays at 10 a.m. for four weeks. The introductory course explains the different parts and uses of the computer. Learn to use the mouse, access programs, use Word, Internet, email, etc. The fee is $25. An eight-week “Introduction to Personal Computers” class began Wednesday and will meet Wednesdays at 10 a.m. The class introduces students to the Internet and explores Windows 7. The fee is $35. One-on-one lessons also are available Thursdays only between 9:30 a.m. and 1:30
Region 15 School Calendar
p.m. by appointment only. The fee is $15 per hour. A course also will be offered for those interested in learning basic fundamentals on the Apple Mac. This is subject to availability of time. The fee is $15 per hour. Those interested in classes should call 203-577-4166 between 9 a.m. and 1 p.m.
Trade in your gold Monday, April 7, from 9 to 11 a.m., Prospect Jewelers will be at the senior center buying gold. Bring in jewelry you no longer wear or want, and get paid cash for it. They also do free appraisals, so if you want to know how much your family heirlooms are worth, bring them in. Call 203-577-4166 for more information.
Ask a pharmacist Matt Carrano of Hop Brook Pharmacy on Straits Turnpike in Middlebury, a certified pharmacist and Middlebury resident, visits the senior center each month to meet with individuals and answer questions. This month, he will visit Tuesday, April 8, from
10 a.m. to 12 p.m. and will discuss medication compliance.
Strength, sculpt and tone
Senior Center Book Club The center’s book club will review “The Art of Racing in the Rain” by Garth Stein Monday, April 7, at 10 a.m. New members are welcome. Joanne Pannone facilitates the group. Contact the center at 860-945-5250 for more information.
Friday, April 4
All State Festival, Crowne Plaza Hotel, Cromwell, CT LMES PTO Scholastic Book Fair Spring fling luncheon Enjoy lunch and a spring fling party LMES PTO Bagel Buddies.......................................................7 - 9 a.m. Wednesday, April 9, at 11:45 a.m. There will PHS Fourth Marking Period Begins...........................................7 a.m. be entertainment and door prizes. The menu PHS Dodge Ball for Diabetes, National Honor Society...........6 p.m. will be Hawaiian fruit cup, marinated Saturday, April 5 chicken, barbequed ribs, gourmet potato salad, Italian-style green beans with red pep- All State Festival, Crowne Plaza Hotel, Cromwell, CT pers, and ice cream. The cost is $8 per person. Call 203-577-4166 to reserve your seat. Sunday, April 6 NEASC Visit................................................. PHS auditorium, 1 - 6 p.m.
Trips IKEA
The Middlebury minibus will go to IKEA in New Haven Thursday, April 24. IKEA offers its customers a wide range of well-designed, functional home furnishing products at prices so low that as many people as possible can afford them. There is a café in IKEA, so you can have lunch right inside. To reserve your seat, call 203-577-4166.
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 860-945-5250. 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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Kent owns Wild at Heart, a landscape maintenance and design company, and has been an associate with The Garden in Woodbury for the past 14 years. Reservations are needed by April 8.
Financial fraud protection
Thursday, April 10, at 9:30 a.m., Donna DellaCamera from Ask the Physical Webster Bank will present “How Therapist to Protect Yourself from FinanKathy Andres of Beacon Brook cial Fraud.” Reservations are Health Center will present “Ask needed by April 9. the Physical Therapist” Tuesday, April 8, at 2 p.m. Andres will address questions about joint pain, mobility and balance. Reservations are needed by April 7.
Online banking basics Learn the basics of online banking Friday, April 11, at 2 p.m. Patrick Quinn of Thomaston Savings Bank will introduce participants to online banking and discuss the safety of transactions. Reservations are needed by April 10.
Bible study New Hope Anglican Church offers a nondenominational Bible study every Friday at 10 a.m. at the center. Join other seniors for the study and discussion. Reservations are not required.
The center’s free, 30-minute strength, sculpt and tone exercise class meets each Tuesday at 8:45 a.m. While sculpting and improving strength and balance, participants work muscles to tone them and get some cardiovascular training at the same time. Kimberly Johnston of FitPreparing the soil ness at the Edge in Middlebury “Preparing the Soil Before teaches this class. Please register by the Monday before each class. Spring Planting” will be the topic Date Time Address/Incident 13:09 900 Straits Turnpike. Fence on fire. ExtinApple Rehab of Watertown spon- of a gardening class Wednesday, 03-27 April 9, at 2 p.m. Kimberly Kent guished on arrival. Used booster line to cool sors this 10-week class. fence off.* will offer instruction on simple soil tests, amendments and ways to till. *This is the 100th fire call answered so far in 2014.
Middlebury Volunteer Fire Department Call Log
Monday, April 7 NEASC Visit...............................PHS auditorium, 7:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. Talent Show Auditions.................................................. 2:45 - 4:30 p.m. PHS Third Quarter Ends........................................................ 3 - 4 p.m. BoE Budget Public Hearing..........................PHS AP Room, 7:30 p.m. BoE Meeting on Budget...........................................................8:30 p.m.
Tuesday, April 8 MES Kindergarten Registration NEASC Visit...............................PHS auditorium, 7:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. PES PTO Meeting.....................................................................9:30 a.m. RMS National Spanish Exam................................................10:23 a.m. Talent Show Auditions.................................................. 2:45 - 4:30 p.m. RMS 8th grade Washington trip meeting...................................7 p.m. LMES Grade 4 Choral Concert....................................................7 p.m.
Wednesday, April 9 MES Kindergarten Registration NEASC Visit....................................PHS auditorium, 7:30 a.m. - 4 p.m. RMS National Spanish Exam................................................10:23 a.m. French Honor Society Induction......................PHS AP Room, 6 p.m. GES Grade 5 Chorus Concert......................................................7 p.m.
Thursday, April 10 MES PTO Spring Clothing Donation Drive MES Kindergarten Registration PES Kindergarten Registration................................. 9:30 a.m. - 3p.m. MES PTO Meeting....................................................................9:30 a.m. RMS PTO After School Tennis.....................................................3 p.m. RMS Tri-M Induction....................................................................6 p.m. PHS Senior Collage Workshop............. Southbury Library, 6:45 p.m. MES Grade 4 Choral Concert.......................................................7 p.m.
Friday, April 11 MES PTO Spring Clothing Donation Drive MES Kindergarten Registration RMS Lifetouch Spring Picture Day PES Kindergarten Registration................................ 9:30 a.m. - 3 p.m.
Saturday, April 12 No Events Scheduled
Region 15 website: www.region15.org
The only Connecticut hospital to receive the Distinguished Hospital Award for Clinical Excellence 2014 Healthgrades Distinguished Hospital Award for Clinical Excellence™ places Waterbury Hospital in the Top 5% of Hospitals Nationwide
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The Bee-Intelligencer
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Friday, April 4, 2014
Bee Intelligencer
in•tel•li•gencer: n. One who conveys news or information The American Heritage Dictionary of the English Language, 4th ed.
Issued by: The Middlebury Bee-Intelligencer Society LLC Bee-Intelligencer Staff: Editor-In-Chief/Publisher: Marjorie Needham Contributing Writers: Mary Conseur, Terrence S. McAuliffe Art & Production: Mario J. Recupido Advertising Consultant: Diane M. Brousseau - 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. Telephone: 203-577-6800 • Email: beeintelligencer@gmail.com Advertising Information: Telephone: 203-577-6800 • Email: mbiadvertising@gmail.com Deadlines: Display Advertising: 5 p.m. Friday preceding publication Classified Advertising: 5 p.m. Monday preceding publication Editorial/Press Releases: Noon Monday preceding publication Copyright © 2014 by The Middlebury Bee-Intelligencer Society, LLC. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without permission is prohibited.
High-tech gadgets track our health Kaiser Health News recently took a look at some of the possibilities of remote monitoring by high-tech health gadgets. These devices can fit into your cellphone and allow your doctor to keep track of your health, even if you’re not in his office. For example, if your heart rate accelerates while you’re doing your daily errands, the doctor will know it when he reads the information. Some devices can tell whether we’re taking pills on time. Others fit under the mattress on our bed to check breathing and heart rate. Still others can check our glucose levels or blood pressure. That’s not to say most doctors are jumping on these devices as being the latest and greatest. While they like the information that can be gathered, some doctors are concerned about patient privacy. The information doesn’t go straight into patient records, but the day eventually will come when it will. At this point, patients must give permission for their information to be taken and must go into the doctor’s office to have the data transferred. Soon pa-
tients will be able to send it themselves over the Internet. In a preview of coming events, one device developer already is hooked up with advertisers and labs. Insurance companies are encouraging patients to upload their information from other devices. Many of the devices aren’t yet approved by the Food and Drug Administration. Are you nervous about this yet? What if you knew your information would go over the Internet, or if you knew it wasn’t always covered by health privacy laws? If you’re asked to wear one of these new gadgets, ask questions about where the information goes ... lots and lots of questions. Matilda Charles regrets she cannot personally answer reader questions, but she will incorporate them into her column whenever possible. Send email to columnreply2@gmail.com. (c) 2014 King Features Synd., Inc.
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In Brief 9 Lives Club meeting
or exhibitor information, call 203754-5141, ext. 251 for Faith Hull or ext. 243 for Carolee Kalita. Proceeds benefit the programs and services of Easter Seals, which serves the special needs of infants, children, and adults with disabilities in greater Waterbury and central and northwestern Connecticut. www.waterburyct. easterseals.com
The next meeting of the 9 Lives Club will be Saturday, April 5, at 2 p.m. in Middlebury. This is a monthly, no-cost educational program for those interested in cat care, behavior and training, and it is open to the public. April’s forum will be an open floor discussion and Q&A on problem behaviors and how to resolve them. Space is limited; please RSVP to Jane or Arthur at 203-6959993. Additional details will be provided.
Alzheimer’s, related dementias support group
Cactus and Succulent Show For the 31st year, the Connecticut Cactus and Succulent Society is having a show and sale Saturday, April 5, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday, April 6, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The event includes a judged show featuring hundreds of cactus and succulent plants from all over the world. Entrance is free, as is parking. Each day, 50 free plants, one per family, will be given away. Vendors will come from as far away as Florida and will sell a broad selection of plants and related gardening materials. Plant auctions will be held at least twice daily. Twenty-minute lectures will focus on growing and caring for the plants. Lecture topics include “Hardy Cacti for the Connecticut Garden,” “Raising Succulents from Seed,” and “Growing Succulents Under Lights.” Find the show and sale at Naugatuck Valley Community College at 750 Chase Parkway in Waterbury in the fifth-floor cafeteria of the Art and Music Center building. The show is handicapped accessible. See ctcactusclub.org.
Beekeeping 101 Have you always wanted to keep honey bees but didn’t know how to get started? Saturday, April 5, from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m., the Woodbury Recreation De-
Tony’s
Beekeeper Kevin Barry is shown with a Langstroth-style beehive. Sunday, April 6, Barry will lead a Flanders Nature Center workshop on building Langstroth bee hives. (Submitted photo) partment will host a beekeeping class instructed by Mike Rice of Mike’s Beehives LLC. Rice will go over the beginning steps of honeybee keeping, which include an explanation of each hive part, installing bees into the hive, feeding your bees, the life cycle of a bee, how to register your bees with the state of Connecticut and why they should be registered, the different roles of each bee, and some of the typical problems you might encounter in beekeeping and harvesting honey. Mike will bring all the equipment needed to cover all aspects of beekeeping. The class will be held at the Rec. House at 7 Mountain Road in Woodbury. The cost is $25 for residents; $35 for nonresidents. Register at www.woodburyparksandrec.org. For more information, call 203 263 3113.
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Master Chorale concert The Connecticut Master Chorale’s spring concert will be Sunday, April 6, at 3 p.m. at the First Congregational Church at 164 Deer Hill Ave. in Danbury. Under the direction of Tina Johns Heidrich, the chorale will perform “Stabat Mater”by Rossini along with Puccini choruses. Featured singers will be soprano Louise Fauteux, tenor Juan Andreu and bass-baritone Edwin Kotchian. Tickets are $20 in advance; $25 at the door. Call 203-743-0473 for tickets. For more information, visit www.cmchorale.org.
Langstroth bee hive assembly Sunday, April 6, at 3 p.m., at the Flanders Sugar House on Church Hill Road in Woodbury, Flanders Nature Center and Land Trust is offering a “hands on” workshop on the assembly of a deep-frame Langstroth bee hive. Participants will help wire the frames and embed the pure bees’ wax foundation. A discussion on suggested finishes and best placement for the hive also will be covered. The cost of the workshop is $12 for Flanders members and $17 for nonmembers. In addition, those interested may purchase for $56 the materials needed to create a beehive using this method. Call 203-2633711, ext. 10, to register.
Chocolate Lovers’ vendors The 21st Annual Chocolate Lovers’ Spring Expo to benefit Easter Seals will be held Sunday, April 6, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Crowne Plaza Hotel at 1284 Strongtown Road in Southbury. Sample the finest chocolate delights and specialty food items from a wide variety of exhibitors and culinary schools. Enjoy a silent auction, door prizes, special drawings, and demonstrations as well as music by Excite Disc Jockey Entertainment and Bella Winds Woodwind Ensemble as you shop for chocolate goodies, unique gifts, products & services. Tickets are $25 in advance ($30 at the door). Children’s tickets (ages 5 to 12) are $5. For tickets
The monthly support group for friends and family of people with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias will meet Thursday, April 10, at 10:30 a.m. at the Jewish Federation of Western Connecticut at 444 Main St. N. in Southbury. There is no charge for this open and ongoing group, whose purpose is to provide emotional, educational and social support for caregivers through regularly scheduled meetings. The group helps participants develop methods and skills to solve problems. It also encourage caregivers to maintain their own personal, physical and emotional health, as well as optimally care for the person with dementia. Patty Gibbs, a volunteer with the Alzheimer’s Association, facilitates the group. For more information, call Debby Horowitz, Brownstein Jewish Family Service director, at 203-267-3177, ext. 310.
Spring rummage sale The Women’s Fellowship of the First Congregational Church in Watertown will have its spring rummage sale Thursday, April 10, from 12 to 8 p.m. in the Fellowship Hall. Included will be clothing for men, women and children; household goods; small appliances; jewelry; toys; dishes; books and baskets. Especially fine items will be found in Annie’s Treasures. Friday, April 11, from 9 to 11 a.m., sales will be $5 a bag. Proceeds from the sale benefit the fellowship’s outreach programs. The Fellowship Hall is at 40 DeForest St. in Watertown.
Chase Collegiate School to host college fair Chase Collegiate School will host a college fair Thursday, April 17, from 2 to 3:30 p.m. at the Goss Field House on the Chase Collegiate School campus at 565 Chase Parkway in Waterbury. Approximately 100 colleges and universities will be in attendance, including Boston University, Carnegie Mellon University, the University of California at Los Angeles, the University of Connecticut and Vanderbilt University. For a complete list of attendees, visit www.chasecollegiate. org. High school students and their parents from all area schools are welcome to attend this informal opportunity to speak with college admission representatives from across the country to learn more about their academic programs, admissions process and opportunities for scholarships and financial aid. This event is free and open to the public. For more information, call the Upper School Office at 203-236-9534.
The Bee-Intelligencer
Friday, April 4, 2014
Budget -
Continued from page 1 amount submitted by the Board of Selectmen and $50,000 below the police department’s budget request. He said the BoF said it is up to St. John and Acting Police Chief Wildman to decide which overtime amounts will be reduced. Also taken out of the budget, although not completely, was
$50,000 for snow removal. Hutvagner told the BoF the amounts spent on snow removal the preceding two fiscal years were lower because the town received Federal Emergency Management Agency funds towards snow removal those years, and he pointed out the snow removal budget this year is already $50,000 over budget. The BoF removed the money, but placed it in a contingency fund so the public works department can access the funds if they are needed.
Also taken out of the budget was $35,000 for contract negotiations. Hutvagner said the town is currently negotiating with the police union and negotiations with the other three unions – the teamsters, the supervisors and the clerical workers – are in the near future. In the building department, $5,900 designated for a leased vehicle for Building Official Ollie LeDuc was removed. Hutvagner said LeDuc is driving a 2001
Crown Victoria with 123,202 miles on it that was formerly the police chief’s car. LeDuc told the BoF at its March 18 special meeting that the car needs a new exhaust system. Hutvagner said budget cuts made by the BoF total $362,000. To learn more about the proposed 2014-2015 budget, attend the public hearing Monday, April 7, at 6:30 p.m. at the firehouse at 65 Tucker Hill Road in Middlebury.
Southbury news Public works task force The Southbury Board of Selectmen plans to form a task force to study Southbury’s Department of Public Works and benchmark its various activities and expenditures with other, similar-sized towns. The charge to the committee may include assessing the town’s vehicle replacement reserve funding plan, comparing work done in-house by town employees versus contracting out to other companies, or doing a cost-benefit analysis of renting/leasing equipment versus purchasing.
Findings and recommendations are to be presented to the board of selectmen within six months of committee formation. Southbury residents who would like to serve on this committee should contact the first selectman’s office at 203-262-0647 or by email at selectoffice@southbury-ct.gov to express their interest, offer their qualifications and/or experience and to ask any questions on the proposed study.
has been detected by the town’s tree warden in trees on Luther Drive and Bucks Hill Road. This tiny, bright green Asian beetle was identified in July 2002 as the cause of widespread ash tree decline and mortality. Larva feeding in the tissue between the bark and sapwood disrupt the transport of nutrients and water in the tree, eventually causing branches and the entire tree to die. As part of their ongoing tree maintenance program, SouthEmerald Ash Borer found bury’s Department of Public The Emerald Ash Borer has Works will monitor the health of been reported in Southbury and ash trees on town property, es-
pecially those that are close to roads or public access areas. In addition, the ash trees that are part of the Streetscape along both sides of Main Street South will be treated with trunk injections to prevent them from being destroyed by this pest. Residents are advised to contact a licensed arborist to inquire about treatment or care for ash trees in their yards or on their property. More information about the Emerald Ash Borer can be found at www.emeraldashborer.info.
tioning compressor. Be sure the supports underneath haven’t shifted. • Look for exterior damage to paint and trim. • If you have a deck, check for loose railings, splintered wood, raised nails and rotten step treads. If you replace wood, remember you might not be able to paint it for up to a year. • Check walkways to be sure paving stones haven’t lifted. Check driveway for cracks. • Power wash the exterior of your house.
• Consider whether window awnings would help keep the summer sun off your windows and keep your house cooler, especially on the south and west sides. Inside: • If you have a basement, go all around the interior walls and look for evidence of water. • Do the same with interior walls at the ceiling to be sure your house didn’t develop a roof leak. Don’t forget the ceilings in closets. • Take down the clear plastic you put on windows and get out your sunblock curtains. • If you’ve had air leaks you didn’t get around to fixing, fix them now. Once the window frame is warm enough, apply caulk and weather-stripping. Buy electric-plug air insulator blocks.
Obituaries Armand I. Calabro Brother of Sebastian Calabro
Mr. Armand I. Calabro, 77, of Prospect passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loving family Monday, March 31, 2014, at Hartford Hospital. He was the devoted husband of the late Josette (Klem) Calabro. Mr. Calabro was born Oct. 3, 1936, in Waterbury, a son of the late Joseph and Carmella Calabro. Armand was a project manager of information systems at Associated Spring Headquarters for many years until his retirement in 1994. He was a past president of the Association for Systems Management. He was also the past president and active member of the New Haven Horse Shoe Club and a member of the Lakewood Social Club. Armand was a kind and caring man, who was always happy and outgoing. He was a wonderful father and grandfather, and spending time with his family was the true joy of
his life. He lived life to the fullest and reminded his family that every day is a gift. Armand is survived by his daughter, Deborah A. Kotomski and her husband, David, of Lebanon; his son, Steven A. Calabro and his fiancé of Edgewood, Fla.; and his beloved grandchildren, who were his world. Armand also leaves behind his brothers: Sebastian Calabro of Middlebury, Dino Calabro of Ridgefield, Joseph Calabro of Waterbury, Fred Calabro of Somers and Dennis Calabro of Roxbury and his sisters: Carmie Calabro and Linda Guerrera, both of Waterbury, and Mary Bourke of Somers, as well as several nieces and nephews. In addition to his wife, Josette, Armand was predeceased by his brother, Edward Calabro. There are no calling hours, and all services are private. Burial will be at the convenience of the family. Maiorano Funeral Home has been entrusted with all arrangements. Memorial contributions in Armand’s name may be made to Protectors of Animals, 144 Main St., East Hartford, CT 06118, or online at www.poainc.org. For more information and online condolences visit www.maioranofuneralhome.com.
Obituary Policy Please ask your funeral director to send obituaries and photos to us at beeintelligencer@gmail. For more information, call 203-577-6800. The Bee-Intelligencer runs obituaries and their accompanying
Spring fix-up It’s spring ... time to see just what Mother Nature has done to your house and yard over the winter. Here’s your to-do list for spring fix-up. Outside: • Clean out gutters and check for loose attachments. Look for leaks at the seams. Consider installing gutter screens. • Check the foundation of the house to be sure there are no depressions in the ground where water can accumulate. Aim downspout water diverters and splash guards away from the house. • If you have a shed, check for water damage. If it’s on blocks, determine if it needs to be raised or leveled. (The higher it is off wet ground, the longer the shed will last.) • Clear leaves and debris from in and around your air condi-
5
• If you use a window air conditioner, make sure it still works. Then vacuum the evaporator fins and condenser coils, wash the filter screen, and be sure the drainage hole isn’t plugged with debris. (Use a paper clip to clear it.) • Consider whether you need a dehumidifier for moist summer air. Buy now before they’re gone. • Replace furnace filters if you have central air. • Check fire extinguishers and smoke detectors. David Uffington regrets he cannot personally answer reader questions, but he will incorporate them into his column whenever possible. Send email to columnreply2@gmail.com.
photos free of charge. We do this as a community service to honor the deceased and the family and friends who love them.
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The Bee-Intelligencer
6
Friday, April 4, 2014
Panthers’ softball team balances youth, experience The Pomperaug High School softball team went into last season at less than full strength but gained valuable experience for the younger players as the Lady Panthers reached the post season for the sixth straight year under head coach Paul Masotto. The 10-12 Panthers were without starting pitcher Lauren Reilly and infielder Erin Ruggerio, but Pomperaug managed to continue a streak of 22 straight seasons in the CIAC state tournament. “The younger players gained a lot of experience due to the number of injuries we encountered last year,” Masotto said. “Lauren and Erin missed all of last season due to injuries. They will both be key contributors on offense and the defensive side of the game.” Pomperaug went through some growing pains last season as the younger players took on larger roles. The Panthers started the year with a win in the season opener, but then dropped three straight. That was followed by a four-game win streak, but a five-
game slide had Pomperaug in danger of missing the post season. A combination of a lack of runs resulting in six shutouts and a defense that allowed double digits in six losses had the Panthers looking for answers. Pomperaug managed to recover, going 4-4 down the stretch to reach the post season. “Overall we should be very competitive with a better balanced roster,” said Masotto. “Our offense is well balanced with the experience gained last year and the senior leadership we have coming back.” Leading the way for the Panthers will be three senior captains: Kennedy Gibson, Lauren Reilly and Jessica Eisenbach. Gibson is a multi-position player at catcher, first base and the outfield as she collected 15 hits last season and led the team with eight stolen bases. Reilly brings experience to the pitching circle and solidifies the defense in the infield. Eisenbach at third base and the outfield swung a productive bat last year,
Pomperaug High School’s softball senior captains are, left to right no. 34, Kennedy Gibson; no. 38, Lauren Reilly; and no. 7, Jessica Eisenbach. (Ken Morse photo)
belting 15 hits, scoring 13 runs and driving in 12 runs. What will make the Panthers better than a year ago is the continued improvement by last year’s leading hitter, junior Brianna AnApril 4 - 12, 2014 tonazzo, who swung a .431 average with a team-leading 28 hits, Baseball Saturday, April 5................... Jamboree, Weston (A).......................... 10 a.m. 19 runs, 17 RBI’s and three home Wednesday, April 9............... Ridgefield (A)................................... 4:15 p.m. runs.
Pomperaug High School Varsity Games
Friday, April 11..................... New Fairfield (A)............................... 4:15 p.m. Saturday, April 12................. Holy Cross (H)..................................... 11 a.m.
Golf
Wednesday, April 9............... Weston (A)............................................ 3 p.m.
DEAR DR. DONOHUE: My
Girls’ Lacrosse
started to vomit. The instructors were alarmed and took him to the local hospital, where doctors diagnosed appendicitis. We had to give phone permission for him to have an operation. Everything went fine, and he recovered quickly. My wife and I have a few questions. Could he have eaten something that caused appendicitis? What does not having an appendix do to people? No one in my wife’s or my family has had such an operation. We’re ignorant about all this. – G.G. ANSWER: The appendix dangles from the first part of the colon in the lower-right side of the abdomen. It looks like a slender worm and has an average length of 3 inches (8 cm). The function of the appendix isn’t clearly defined, but it might have a role in body immunity. Life without an appendix goes on as normally as life with one. The appendix has a hollow core, which is lined with lymphoid tissue, the same kind of tissue found in lymph nodes. Bacteria from the colon can invade the hollow core and cause the lymph tissue to swell. Swelling cuts off the blood supply, and the appendix begins to disinte-
Saturday, April 5................... Watertown (Scrimmage) (A)................. 11 a.m. 13-year-old son went to band Wednesday, April 9............... New Milford (A)..................................... 6 p.m. camp for five days. On day three, Saturday, April 12................. Stamford (A)......................................... 1 p.m. he had terrific stomach pain and
Softball
Saturday, April 5................... Nonnewaug (Scrimmage) (H)................ 1 p.m. Wednesday, April 9............... Ridgefield (A)................................... 4:15 p.m. Friday, April 11..................... Joel Barlow (H)................................. 4:15 p.m. Saturday, April 12................. Lauralton Hall (H)............................. 3:30 p.m. (H) Home (A) Away
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“Although we are still a very young team, the experience gained from last year is a key benefit to our continued success,” added Masotto. “We have three freshman, Kaela Harris, Laurel Williams and Ashley Antonazzo, that will strengthen our defense and should also add some offensive punch to further balance our attack.”
Life is still good without an appendix
Boys’ Lacrosse
Friday, April 4....................... Farmington (Scrimmage) (H)................. 5 p.m. Saturday, April 5................... Hamden Play Day (A)............................ 8 a.m. Wednesday, April 9............... Immaculate (A)................................ 4:15 p.m. Friday, April 11..................... Weston (A)....................................... 5:30 p.m. Saturday, April 12................. Bethel (H)............................................. 4 p.m.
Sophomores Rebecca Meyer and Annabella Pastorok played pivotal roles last season and made significant contributions to the offense. Meyer, with 19 hits, 16 runs and 15 RBI’s, led the team with four home runs, and Pastorok was solid behind the plate with a .927 fielding percentage while collecting 14 hits and scoring 10 runs.
Having Ruggerio back in the infield gives the Panthers a much stronger defense. There is added depth with junior Lauren LaCava and sophomore outfielders Annie Yacavone and Anna Castle. Junior Isabella Bunosso gained experience in the pitcher’s circle, compiling a 5-4 record. With the return of Reilly and the depth of freshman Ashley Antonazzo, coach Masotto will have options in a much-improved pitching game. “The players are focused and excited to start the season,” said Masotto, who is entering his seventh season at the helm. “We will be tested by teams like Masuk, Oxford, Newtown, Lauralton Hall and Brookfield. “We have several players that have the potential to be All-Conference as well as All-State. We are always focused on being competitive with goals to qualify for both the conference and state tournaments.” Pomperaug will get the season under way Wednesday, April 9, at Ridgefield at 4:15 p.m. The Lady Panthers will have their first home game Friday, April 11, at 4:15 p.m. against Barlow with a Saturday, April 12, showdown at home against league powerhouse Lauralton Hall at 3:30 p.m.
mumps. Now I am 30 and have been married for three years. My wife and I want to have a family, but we aren’t having any luck. Do you think the mumps made me infertile? – J.Z. ANSWER: In around 40 percent of males who get the mumps after puberty, the virus also travels to the testicles. That results in impaired fertility in only 13 pergrate – appendicitis. Undigested cent. Sterility almost never hapfood or hard fecal material also pens. If both testicles are incan block the appendix’s core fected, then sterility might be a and lead to the same situation. problem. Nothing your son ate is likely the Before puberty, testicular incause. All the other campers ate volvement is rare, and infertility the same food as he, but he was isn’t a problem. You were only the only one to develop this 10. It’s highly unlikely the mumps problem. caused you to be infertile. The pain of appendicitis most You and your wife shouldn’t often starts in the area of the na- have to handle this problem on vel (bellybutton) and works its your own. Why not consult a way toward the lower-right cor- doctor so both of you can be exner of the abdomen. Tempera- amined? An answer to the questure rises. Vomiting is common, tion why you aren’t having the and sometimes diarrhea is part family you want will be found, of the picture. A doctor, by what and a solution, if possible, will he or she hears from the patient, be suggested. along with the examination of Dr. Donohue regrets he is unthe abdomen, usually can make able to answer individual letters, the diagnosis. In confusing cir- but he will incorporate them in cumstances, an ultrasound is his column whenever possible. most helpful. Readers may write him or request Millions of people worldwide an order form of available health live without an appendix. They newsletters at P.O. Box 536475, do quite well. So will your son. Orlando, FL 32853–6475. 1. In 1990, two major-league DEAR DR. DONOHUE: When I pitchers, one in each league, (c) 2014 North America Synd., Inc. was about 10 years old, I got the tossed a no-hitter on the same All Rights Reserved day (June 29). Name the pitchers. 2. How many times has a Kansas City Royals player led the American League in batting average for a season? OUR NEW LOCATION 3. Name the first college football 50 Waterbury Road Rte. 69 bowl game in which two HeisProspect, CT 06712 man Trophy winners faced (203) 527-6737 each other. 4. In 2013, Paul George became the fourth Indiana Pacer to be starting at named the NBA’s Most Improved Player. Name two of • Jacket the first three. • Trouser 5. When was the last time before • Shirt the 2012-13 season the Phil• Bowtie Send in 6 other renters adelphia Flyers missed the • Cumberbund with your name and get NHL playoffs? your in stock rental 6. In 2013, Austria’s Marlies Formal Shoe Rentals, Vests, Ties Schild became the all-time FREE • FREE • FREE & Damage Waiver fees are extra leader in World Cup slalom Every Tuxedo must be tried on before it leaves the shoppe, victories (35). Who had she to ensure a personal fit. been tied with? 7. Which golfer had the lowest four-round score in winning EVERYTHING MADE FRESH the Masters during the 1970s? ON PREMISES!
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1. Dave Stewart (Oakland) and Fernando Valenzuela (Los Angeles Dodgers). 2. Four times – George Brett three times (1976, ’80, ’90), and Willie Wilson once (1982). 3. The 2005 Orange Bowl featured Southern Cal’s Matt Leinart and Oklahoma’s Jason White. 4. Jalen Rose (2000), Jermaine O’Neal (2002) and Danny Granger (2009). 5. It was the 2006-07 season. 6. Switzerland’s Vreni Schneider. 7. Ray Floyd had a 271 total in 1976.
By KEN MORSE
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The Bee-Intelligencer
Friday, April 4, 2014
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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 This publication does not know5-Star Resort, 2-Bedrooms, FOR SALE Education ingly accept advertising which is 2-Baths, Internet, Fully deceptive, fraudulent, or which Equipped. $1,570 Per Week TANNING BED: SCA Wolff might otherwise violate the law AVIATION MAINTENANCE Until May. 239-482-0217 or System 1994. In great conor accepted standards of taste. TRAINING: Financial Aid 508-364-4409. dition. New bulbs. Used in However, this publication does if qualified. Job Placement home. Call 203-758-9967 to not warrant or guarantee the Assistance. Call National WARM WEATHER IS YEARmake an offer. accuracy of any advertisement, Aviation Academy Today! ROUND In Aruba. The wanor the quality of the goods or FAA Approved. CLASSES ter is safe, and the dining Instruction services advertised. Readers STARTING SOON! 1-800is fantastic. Walk out to the are cautioned to thoroughly 292-3228 or NAA.edu beach. 3-Bedroom. Weeks LANGUAGE TUTOR: English, investigate all claims made in available. Sleeps 8. $3500. any advertisements, and to use French, English as a second Flea Market Email: carolaction@aol.com good judgment and reasonable language, SAT, PSAT, and for more information. care, particularly when dealing TOEFL preparation. Middlewith persons unknown to you WOODBURY ANTIQUES & bury: 203-758-1888 FLEA MARKET open Satwho ask for money in advance urdays and Sundays yearof delivery of the goods or services advertised. round 7:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Legal Notices
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Legal Notice Town of Middlebury Democratic Party-Selected Delegates to Conventions
For Rent CASH FOR CARS: Any Make, Model or Year. We Pay MORE! Running or Not, Sell SANIBEL HARBOUR MARRIA certified list(s) of party-selected candidates for the Democratic your Car or Truck TODAY. OTT RESORT AND SPA IN Party in the Town of Middlebury for participation as DELEGATES Free Towing! Instant Offer: FORT MYERS, FLORIDA: to the convention (s) of said Party specified below is on file in my 1-800-871-0654 For Rent Weekly by Owner. office at 1212 Whittemore Rd., Middlebury, Connecticut and copies are available for public distribution: CONVENTION(s) State Senate District 32 Congressional District 5 Senate District 15 State Assembly District 71 Judge of Probate Dated at Middlebury, Connecticut this 4th day of April, 2014. Edith Salisbury Town Clerk of Middlebury Legal Notice Town of Middlebury Republican Party-Selected Delegates to Conventions A certified list(s) of party-selected candidates for the Republican Party in the Town of Middlebury for participation as DELEGATES to the convention (s) of said Party specified below is on file in my office at 1212 Whittemore Rd., Middlebury, Connecticut and copies are available for public distribution: CONVENTION(s) State Senate District 32 State Assembly District 71 Senate District 15
(Kathleen Brown-Carrano cartoon)
Backyard beekeeper has neighbor buzzing
Q:
My next-door neighbor informed me yesterday he intends to set up a beehive in his yard. Is he even allowed to do this in a populated area? We both have half-acre lots, and he says the hive likely will be located in a far corner, but I see nuisance and even disaster ahead. What if the bees swarm? What if they sting a child and, God forbid, that child is allergic? Should I contact the city about this? – Claire S., via e-mail
A:
Believe it or not, beekeeping can and does take place in suburban areas – and even in the middle Dated at Middlebury, Connecticut this 4th day of April, 2014. of the city. I understand your Edith Salisbury concern, however. Town Clerk of Middlebury Take heart in the fact your neighbor came over to tell you about the planned hive before it arrived. That gives you the opportunity to ask some questions about the hive, the type of bees and so on. I encourage you to keep it polite. For now, just ask questions and listen to your neighbor. There’s a very good chance he has been researching beekeeping for some time and he even knows the municipal
By Samantha Mazzotta ordinances regarding the activity. If he already has some homesteading activities going on, such as keeping a few chickens, and those activities haven’t been a nuisance to you or others, it’s likely the beehive will make little to no difference in the neighborhood – other than the flowers in your garden perhaps blooming bigger and better than ever before, thanks to nature’s best pollinators living nearby. After talking to your neighbor, do some research of your own. MAAREC (Mid-Atlantic Apicultural Research & Extension Consortium) has a good pamphlet available to download as a PDF about suburban beekeeping, and a number of websites are available under that search term. There are many ways for beekeepers to reduce the possibility
of nuisance and stings in the neighborhood. You also can contact your municipality about whether beekeeping is allowed. If it is specifically permitted, there are usually rules about how big the hive can be and whether it needs to be registered with the state’s agricultural office. Above all, give it a chance. The dwindling bee population worldwide is greatly concerning researchers, so homesteaders’ beekeeping can be a small but helpful contribution toward solving the problem. And, being on friendly terms with a successful beekeeper can have the positive side effect of receiving an occasional, and perhaps steady, gift of honey. Send your questions or home tips to ask@thisisahammer.com. (c) 2014 King Features Synd., Inc.
Interested in beekeeping but don’t have a lot of money or space? Look up local beekeeping groups online or consider starting one at a community garden or other open space.
Middlebury Parks & Recreation Easter Egg Hunt The annual Easter Egg Hunt for children ages 3 to 10 will be Saturday, April 19, at 1 p.m. at the Shepardson Community Center field. (Rain date will be April 26.) This event is sponsored by the Middlebury Police Social Club and the Parks and Recreation Department.
Zumba
Residents and property owners must provide a copy of their car registration and proof of residency or real estate ownership. Photo ID required. The fees are $125 for a family pass, $30 for a senior pass, $68 for a single pass and $10 per additional sticker for family or single-pass holders. Seniors 65 and older are eligible to receive ONE pass for the senior fee. Only household residents age 65 and older are eligible to use this pass. There is a $125 charge per extra car sticker per senior.
Instructor Shelagh Greatorex will teach Zumba to those 12 and older Tuesdays and Thursdays, MRA boat racks, lockers April 22 to June 24, from 6:15 to 7:15 p.m. at ShepEntry forms for the MRA boat rack lottery are ardson Center. Zumba is a fun and effective form available online and in the Parks and Recreation of cardiovascular exercise moving and dancing to Latin music. The fee is $55 for residents; $65 for office. Racks can accommodate Sunfish, Sailfish, wind surfers, kayaks and canoes, and there are six nonresidents. spaces for standard-size rowboats. The limit is one rack per family at a cost of $50 per rack. Karate Boat rack lottery requests must be received in Master Mathews will teach Intermediate Karate the Parks and Recreation office no later than Friday, (blue and purple) Thursdays, April 21 to June 23, April 25. The lottery will be held Wednesday, April from 6 to 7 p.m. in Room 28 at Shepardson Com- 30. Winners must pay for their rack by Wednesday, munity Center. There will be no classes May 26 May 14, or their rack will be offered to the next and June 16. The fee is $45 for residents; $55 for person on the wait list. Residents must have a valid nonresidents. MRA pass before renting a boat rack. A limited number of wooden storage lockers MRA beach passes that rent for $50 for the season are available to pass Beach passes for the Middlebury Recreation holders on first-come, first-served basis. Limit one Area (MRA) are on sale in the Parks and Rec office. locker per family. No phone reservations accepted
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Have you made your summer plans? Would you think about hosting a Fresh Air Fund child from New York City? This summer, The Fresh Air Fund needs more host families to carry on its great summertime tradition of sharing the joys of suburban and small-town life with youngsters from New York City – picking berries straight from the vine, chasing fireflies for the first time or walking barefoot through a grassy meadow. For more information on how you can volunteer this summer, contact Heather Roy at 203-758-1351 or HeatherRoy74@ gmail.com or visit www.freshair.org.
Course registration Online Registration: Register online at www.middlebury-ct.org. Online registration accepts payments in the form of MasterCard or Visa credit and debit cards. If you previously registered for a Parks and Recreation program in the office, call the office at 203-758-2520 and request your household ID number. Households new to Parks and Recreation programs can create a household account on the website. All programs have registration deadlines. Please register early. In-Office Registration: All registrations must be received in the Recreation office BEFORE the registration deadline. The Recreation Department reserves the right to cancel any program due to lack of participation. Please register early.
The Bee-Intelligencer
8
Friday, April 4, 2014
Is your home prepared for warmer weather?
(StatePoint) Warmer weather is just around the corner, which means higher temperatures. But does it have to mean higher energy bills too? The answer is no. There are numerous ways to keep your home cool and bills low this summer. After a few months off, it is vital to check that your air conditioning system is still working in an efficient and optimal manner. If you have a central air conditioning system, for peace of mind, you might want to have your system checked by an HVACR (heating, ventilating, air conditioning and refrigeration) professional. In order to save, be sure to shop around for special deals, which are not difficult to find for seasonal preventive maintenance. Understand however, that the proficiency of HVACR technicians differs greatly. When searching for the right HVACR technicians for your home, one way to make certain the job will be done properly and effectively is by hiring a professional certified by North American Technician Excellence (NATE), the nation’s largest independent, nonprofit certification body for HVACR technicians. NATE-certified technicians are qualified to properly install and service equipment, which means maximum home comfort and energy savings. Once a NATE-certified HVACR technician has inspected your system for efficiency, there are a number of things you can do to keep energy bills low:
Send in your pet photos
Your pet’s photo could be here
Your pet could be featured as “Pet of the Week” on this page. 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.
PET OF THE WEEK
Adopt a Rescue Pet
• Clean your air filters. Check them every couple of weeks, and change them at least twice in the season, or as directed by the manufacturer. • Don’t obstruct airflow around air conditioner units – keep them clear of plants and debris. • Raise the thermostat about five degrees, because each degree you raise the thermostat will save you a percentage off your cooling energy bill. • Compare energy bills from last year. If your costs have significantly increased, contact a qualified HVACR technician – they can help determine the source of the problem.
Remember, just because you have an energy-approved, ecofriendly, high-efficiency product, it does not mean automatic money and energy savings. For substantive results, proper installation, service and maintenance are important too. So do yourself a favor – request the service of a NATE-certified technician. To locate a contractor that employs certified technicians, look for the NATE logo or go to www.HVACRAdvice.com. By taking preventive measures, you can rest assured that this season you will be cool while saving money and energy.
AVA
BONNIE
This is Ava. She has been here at our facility for six to eight months. She was a stray, living on the streets of Meriden. She was terrified when she first came to us, but she has come such a long way! When she first came in, she was depressed and was not eating much. With lots of love and care, she has bloomed into a beautiful cat. She is still a little unsure about new people, but once she gets to know you, she will be your buddy for life.
A quiet home is needed for this girl. Bonnie has been here most of her life. She came in with her brother Clyde four years ago. They had so much wrong with them when they arrived that it took a good year for them to recover from it all. Bonnie and her brother were found in a carrier where they had been for days with no food or water to drink; it was unbelievable they even survived. Bonnie is ready for a home to call her own.
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.
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Well, it has been a very long winter, and I am just getting a glimpse of some of my earliest bloomers. The first are the “Snow drops,” also known as galanthus. These beautiful white-flowered bulbs are planted in the fall. They are great, especially in woodland gardens or underneath deciduous trees. They are deer resistant. Another of the early blooming bulbs is the crocus. These are also planted in the fall. Crocus come in shades of purples, blue, yellow and white. These are very easy to plant as they only need to be planted 2-3 inches deep. You can plant 100 of them in less than an hour. They can be naturalized in lawns or grouped under deciduous trees. They grow 2 to 5 inches tall. The only drawback to crocus is the flowers last only a few days. One of the earliest perennials to bloom are hellebores, also known as Lenten Rose or Christmas Rose. These are wonderful
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flowers. They bloom in March, and the flowers last for weeks. Once the flowers die back later in spring, the leaves will emerge. The foliage is a beautiful green, and they add texture and depth to the perennial garden all summer and through winter. Hellebores can be planted in the spring or fall. They are deer and
vole resistant. It is best to cut the foliage in late winter (March) just before they bloom. They do best in shade or part shade. The earliest shrubs to bloom are the witch hazels (hammamelis), which are native to Connecticut. They can grow 15 to 20 feet tall. They bloom from late January to March. The flowers are yellow in color. The foliage turns yellow to yellow orange in the fall. Start looking for your early bloomers, and enjoy your time in the garden!
Can pets take human vitamins? DEAR PAW’S CORNER: Can I give my dog and cat the same herbal supplements and vitamins I take? It seems a lot of medicines prescribed by the vet are just pet-sized doses of human medication. – Tanya G., via email DEAR TANYA: Some pets can take vitamin supplements similar to those used by humans, but as you noted, the dosages can vary greatly between humans and pets, and among different sizes and species of pets. Dogs and cats and other mammals are most likely to be prescribed medicines humans also take. Lizards, fish and non-mammals are far less likely to take the same things. It’s really, really important to talk to your pets’ veterinarian about giving them vitamins or herbal supplements, in addition to doing your own research on natural pet health. Many vets recommend certain supplements for dogs and cats, usually added to their food or given in pill form. Some advocate homeopathic remedies. All vets will tell you what not to give your pets, and you should take heed. Additionally, your pet’s food may already contain some vitamin supplements. Be aware of
what they’re already eating before adding more of the same. What kind of supplements are commonly given to house pets? Some of the more popular ones include vitamin C, which is purported to reduce inflammation; fish oil, which improves skin and hair; and glucosamine (along with chondroitin), which many owners say has reduced the severity of arthritis in their older dogs. Again, do your research and make sure the supplement or vitamin you want to give your dog or cat is safe for them. Make sure they’re getting the right dose for their weight, as well. With vitamins as with everything else, there can be too much of a good thing. Send your questions or comments to ask@pawscorner.com. (c) 2014 King Features Synd., Inc.
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